Counterman

New research by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is shedding light on the latest trends and developments in vehicle lifecycles and providing new insights for those who provide parts for accessorizing and modifying the more than 289 million vehicles in the US. Findings in the new SEMA Vehicle Lifecycles Report include: Vehicles are staying on the road longer, a continuing trend. The average U.S. vehicle age is now at 12.6 years, its highest number in over a decade. Passenger cars are now an average of 14 years old (up from 13.6), while light trucks rose slightly to 11.9, from 11.8. Used-car market ticks downward but remains historically high. The average listing price of a used vehicle in the U.S. is $25,251, as of July 2024. Car values have fallen faster than that of light trucks, with the sharpest decrease in overall vehicle value found in EVs (-11%). Stabilization of new vehicle prices offset by continued climb of interest rates. The average new vehicle price sits at $48,644, down slightly from the year prior, and halting a dramatic climb that began in the beginning of 2021. However, interest rates for new and used vehicles continue to hound buyers, remaining significantly higher than those offered in 2021-2022, regardless of loan-term length. Automakers are producing fewer entry-level vehicles. While new vehicle inventory in 2024 has reached a three-and-a-half-year high, small cars and other entry-level vehicles (those priced below $20,000) make up just 0.7% of the market, compared with 7% five years ago. This lack of affordability has a profound impact on younger people, who are historically more price-sensitive than older drivers. Two decades of increasingly dependable vehicles. Since 2003, vehicles have exhibited fewer problems, highlighting a growing reliability that is a boon to consumers. However, recent years have yielded an increase in vehicle issues tied to new technology-based automotive features, including driving assistance and infotainment systems — a trend that could impact future dependability. The nation’s fleet of vehicles is growing. The past year saw the net addition of 3 million more vehicles to the roads, with crossovers (72.7 million) closing the gap with passenger cars (89.2 million) as the dominant segment of the entire fleet. However, compared to 10 years ago, vehicle registrations skew more heavily toward light trucks than cars. The specialty-equipment aftermarket continues to grow — and is expected to keep growing. Specialty equipment retail sales in 2023 surpassed $52.3 billion and are forecasted to grow to more than $57 billion by 2026. The research also reveals trends across four categories of vehicles (Classic, Aged, Core and Modern), highlighting age, popularity, usage and consumer spending habits. For accessorizing, pickups and muscle cars are the top choice for enthusiasts. Meanwhile, vehicles in the Aged category are driving spending for performance products, as a way to refresh their older vehicle. Aftermarket product spending for Modern and Core vehicles was primarily (59% and 54%) on accessory and appearance products, while 43% of spending on Classic vehicles was for performance products. The post SEMA Releases New Research on Vehicle Lifecycle Trends appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Autel announced it has released Guided ADAS. This application enables Autel Calibration system owners to use their frame, targets and expedited setup, with OE software accessed in-house or via the Autel Remote Expert platform, to calibrate vehicles not yet covered by Autel tablet ADAS calibration software, according to Autel. “We are always playing catchup when it comes to coverage. That is just the reality of being an aftermarket software developer. Yet, technicians, especially those working in collision, need to calibrate new or newer vehicles. With Guided ADAS, Autel users can take advantage of all the benefits of their calibration systems—ease of use and efficiency—step-by-step instructions, optical positioning, unlevel floor compensation, and validated documentation, along with our quality targets, patterns, and calibrators—and use OE calibration software to complete the task,” said Stewart Peregrine, senior executive of ADAS sales at Autel. Guided ADAS, which is compatible with all of the Autel calibration systems: the Standard, MA600, IA800, IA900, or the new IA700 frames, allows shops to use their own OE subscriptions and tools or contract with a Remote Expert with OE software subscriptions for the setup specifications and to initiate ADAS calibration on new vehicles, according to Autel. There are three calibration scenarios available in the application The first allows the in-house or Remote Expert technician who has referenced the OE calibration data and has determined that the vehicle uses the same procedures and targets as a previous model year to retrieve the detailed setup instructions, including target type from the Autel calibration database. Autel offers calibration coverage for more than 40 brands and hundreds of models and model year vehicles sold in North America. The second application allows technicians to input and save the specifications for completely new or existing vehicles with new-to-the-model ADAS components that lack historical parameter data. The third scenario allows technicians to use the Autel patterns, targets, and calibrators identified by the OE as acceptable for calibrating the identified vehicle. The technician would then determine the position identification method, i.e., radar location, front camera, or front of the vehicle, then input the distance and height of the target to meet the OE’s vehicle placement requirements. Next, the user selects “Start Placement.” The system will display placement instructions for MA600 or Standard frame system users or activate the optical positioning cameras and guide the user to place the target and frame at the correct distance, offset, and angle to the vehicle when the IA700, IA800, and IA900 frames are used. Remote Expert Platform The Autel Remote Expert platform enables technicians to contract with an experienced technician with OE tools or subscriptions to complete the calibration if needed. Remote Experts are also available for modular flashing, new ECU programming, and OE tasks currently not supported by Autel software. Released on the Autel MaxiSYS Ultra series of tablets over two years ago, the Remote Expert platform has seen incredible growth, averaging more than 4,000 monthly orders. “Remote Expert is like a virtual lifeline from the technician to an Expert. Whatever the challenge, from a tricky diagnosis to module programming, a technician can use the platform to reach out to an Expert. ADAS calibration assistance has quickly grown in need. With the development of Guided ADAS, we foresee even greater growth,” Autel’s Director of Technical Operations, Maurice Miller, said of the platform. The post Autel Releases Guided ADAS Application appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper, in collaboration with the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, announced a new round of 25 scholarship winners for the 2024 scholarship season. Recipients are selected from a competitive pool of student applicants from across North America with goals of completing their secondary education. This year’s scholarship recipients, and their respective warehouse distributor include: Sarah Crecelius, Rio Vista, Texas: 4M Parts Warehouse Madison Gray-Pirsak, Regina, Saskatchewan; Auto Electric Carter Thomas, Tisdale, Saskatchewan; Auto Electric Zachary Burg, Saint Cloud, Minnesota; Automotive Parts Headquarters Ryan Hiebner, Henderson, Nebraska; Automotive Parts Headquarters Cohen Palmer, Bison, South Dakota; Automotive Parts Headquarters Joshua Tangen, Roseau, Minnesota, Automotive Parts Headquarters Yiannis Logothetis, Lake Mills, Wisconsin; Auto-Wares Group of Companies Oscar Reyes, North Chicago, Illinois; Auto-Wares Group of Companies Jarod Wright, Manistee, Michigan; Auto-Wares Group of Companies Joseph Rakowski, Southampton, Pennsylvania; Eastern Automotive Katelynn Baker, Lowville, New York; Hahn Automotive William Baxter, Honeoye Falls, New York; Hahn Automotive Lindzy Dolder, Lizton, Indiana; Hahn Automotive Frankie Giocastro, Oceanport, New Jersey; Hahn Automotive Matthew Keplar, Norfolk, Virginia; Hahn Automotive Alexandra Skidmore, Starrucca, Pennsylvania; Hahn Automotive Sean Vazquez, Granada, Colorado; Jobbers Automotive Madison Long, Greenfield, Iowa; Merrill Co. Brock Tiernan, Woodward, Iowa; Merrill Co. Zackery Beshears, Greenwood, Arkansas; Parts Warehouse Inc. William Crews, Maumelle, Arkansas, Parts Warehouse Inc. Madeline Ezell, Hopkinsville, Kentucky, Parts Warehouse Inc. Maddox Lapp, Many, Louisiana; Parts Warehouse Inc. David Reed, Dover, Arkansas; Parts Warehouse Inc. “2024 was yet another outstanding year, with a pool of highly qualified and competitive applicants for these scholarships. It brings our team so much excitement to see students thrive and pursue a higher education. The Alliance team looks forward to supporting the University of the Aftermarket Foundation every year with their scholarship program,” said Laurel Lopez, marketing & events coordinator for Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc, program headquarters for Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper. “Congratulations to all our Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Scholarship Recipients! We are proud and excited to see what the future holds for you.” All affiliated Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper candidates completed a comprehensive application that included essay prompts, short answers, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and more. An industry panel of judges reviewed and ranked the applicants based on their merits following established guidelines along with oversight and administration from the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. Candidates were also required to verify they were employees or children of employees at an Auto Value, Bumper to Bumper, or Confidence Plus location. Since the Alliance scholarship program was developed in 2001, it has awarded almost $600,000 in scholarships to deserving students. The annual program encourages continuing education within the membership and supports the next workforce generation in achieving their educational goals. The post Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Award $25,000 in Scholarships appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

TI Automotive Aftermarket has launched the new BKS1002 fuel pump kit. This new model is engineered specifically for high-pressure, in-tank applications and is the highest flowing fuel pump in the TI Automotive catalog, according to the company. The BKS1002 fuel pump kit will feature: High-pressure, high-flow E5LM brushless screw pump 3’ long wire harness for tank mounting High-performance inlet filter Support of 1,000+ horsepower “The BKS1002 further expands our line of fuel pump kits with another high-pressure, high-performance technology, but adds additional flexibility for enthusiasts,” said Brian Altenberger, aftermarket business director, TI Automotive. “There has been a significant demand in the market for the option to purchase a standalone pump and the BKS1002 now provides that option.” TI Automotive Aftermarket said its BKS1002 must be driven with a sensorless 6-step commutation method or other suitable methods such as Sinusoidal or Field Oriented Control (FOC). The BKS1002 pump, filter and wire harness are all components from the BKS1001, but without the controller. The BKS1001 will remain available, however customers who already utilize a controller may now opt to purchase a kit without one, offering additional build flexibility. The post TI Automotive Aftermarket Launches Brushless Fuel Pump Kit appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Standard Motor Products, Inc. announced the continued expansion of its Ignition Coil program. Standard and Blue Streak offer more than 700 Coils, with new numbers added each month. Blue Streak by Standard Ignition Coils are available in multi-packs for a complete coil service, the company said. In a news release announcing the program expansion, Standard explained that it evaluates the original part, identifies the OE issues, and corrects those problems to deliver improved reliability. For instance, ignition coils on the Ford 4.6L engine generate too much heat, leading to premature failure. To solve this issue, Blue Streak by Standard FD503 Ignition Coils were redesigned with two additional bobbin segments to better distribute the energy, resulting in less heat and a longer service life. Many popular OE coils use a two-piece design requiring an O-ring that breaks down over time, allowing moisture to enter the coil and cause failure. Standard said it created a sealed, one-piece design that doesn’t require an O-ring, eliminating the risk of moisture intrusion. Recently released Standard Coils introduce coverage for the 2023-21 Ford F-150, 2023-20 Subaru Legacy and Outback, and 2022-19 Mercedes-Benz cars and SUVs. Additional new coverage includes popular vehicles like the 2024-22 Volkswagen Jetta and Taos, 2024-23 Ford Super Duty trucks, and the 2020-15 Alfa Romeo 4C. Currently, 15 Blue Streak Ignition Coil Multipacks are available for popular vehicles, with additional applications in development. “Our Ignition Coil program is the most comprehensive in the industry,” said John Herc, vice president of vehicle control marketing at SMP. “We’re dedicated to continuously expanding our coverage with coils of the highest quality and best performance to meet the demands of professional technicians.” All new Standard and Blue Streak Ignition components are listed in the catalog found at StandardBrand.com, and in electronic catalog providers. The post Standard Motor Products Expands Ignition Program appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NexaMotion Group announced an expansion in Canada with an enhanced offering for its Transtar location in Mississauga, Ontario. The expanded product line became available the first week of September. NMG began executing massive expansion plans in 2023 through acquisitions, new product lines for existing Transtar locations and opening stores in additional markets. Mississauga marks the first expanded location for the company in Canada and the eighth expansion for NexaMotion Group in 2024. NMG said Transtar has been a trusted partner in Ontario, offering transmission and driveline parts to automotive repair shops for over 50 years. In the expanded Mississauga location, the company said customers will have access to the industry’s top brands, with over 60,000 new parts being added to inventory and ready to serve current and new partners. Customers will have access to both general repair and transmission parts via the company’s Transend platform. “NexaMotion plans to grow and serve new markets with expanded product lines,” said Neil Sethi, CEO of NexaMotion Group. “Our plans to integrate general repair and transmission parts into one location are working really well for our customers. NMG is strategically positioning itself in the automotive aftermarket industry, consistently embracing new opportunities and customer partnerships.” The post NexaMotion Expands Product Lines at Transtar Location in Canada appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Pirelli revealed that its Elect tires have obtained over 500 homologations since its launch in 2019. According to Pirelli, these tires include technologies that enhance the specificities of electric and plug-in hybrid cars. Pirelli said Elect tires can extend range by up to 30 miles due to low rolling resistance, which results in a savings of up to $160 per year on charging costs. Thanks to the compounds used to make Pirelli Elect, the tires also offer increased grip, to manage the high torque of electric motors and reinforced structures to cope with the load of EVs, according to the manufacturer. “The number of homologations obtained from major manufacturers confirms the validity of the path we have chosen to follow, which is to offer technology that can be adapted to the vehicle, to the tire, and to seasonality,” Piero Misani, chief technical officer of Pirelli, said. “The most modern development tools, such as virtualization and artificial intelligence, allow us to design products that are increasingly in line with the technical and performance requirements of EVs.” Pirelli said its Elect technology, which debuted with the first-generation Porsche Taycan’s P Zeros, is now integrated into an increasing number of Pirelli’s main product families. Pirelli Elect is also available in an increasing percentage of winter (22%) and all-season (17%) tires, Pirelli said. The post Pirelli Obtains 500+ Homologations for Elect Tires appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Dayco announced the addition of 55 new part numbers to its hose, water pump and drive system kit lines. The new product introductions include 41 new branched and quick connect hoses, covering primarily medium- and heavy-duty vehicle applications, 11 new water pumps and 3 new serpentine belt kit part numbers that allow Dayco to provide expanded coverage for millions of vehicles on the road, according to the company. The company said that for the past 18 months, Dayco’s product management team has significantly transformed its hose product line following a detailed evaluation of more than 3,000 part numbers, adding new numbers with exact fitment and redesigning old hose applications when necessary. Dayco said its hoses, which are designed to meet or exceed all relevant OE and SAE standards, feature spiral reinforcement for high burst strength and excellent heat resistance. The 11 new Dayco water pump SKUs being introduced will cover 22 million light-duty vehicles on the road. Dayco added that its serpentine belt kit line is also expanding as the company continues developing innovative system solutions and recommending all drive system components be changed at the same time to improve performance and reduce comebacks. Coverage for over 3 million VIO was added in February and an additional 2+ million VIO will be covered with the three new kits. “We have continued to evolve our line review process to assure that we efficiently bring to market products the industry needs based on real data and input from the field,” said Jerry Reeves, manager of product management for Dayco North America. “This is just an example of the type of expansions you’ll continue to see from the Dayco team.” The post Dayco Adds 55 New Parts to Portfolio appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Dayco announced the addition of 55 new part numbers to its hose, water pump and drive system kit lines. The new product introductions include 41 new branched and quick connect hoses, covering primarily medium- and heavy-duty vehicle applications, 11 new water pumps and 3 new serpentine belt kit part numbers that allow Dayco to provide expanded coverage for millions of vehicles on the road, according to the company. The company said that for the past 18 months, Dayco’s product management team has significantly transformed its hose product line following a detailed evaluation of more than 3,000 part numbers, adding new numbers with exact fitment and redesigning old hose applications when necessary. Dayco said its hoses, which are designed to meet or exceed all relevant OE and SAE standards, feature spiral reinforcement for high burst strength and excellent heat resistance. The 11 new Dayco water pump SKUs being introduced will cover 22 million light-duty vehicles on the road. Dayco added that its serpentine belt kit line is also expanding as the company continues developing innovative system solutions and recommending all drive system components be changed at the same time to improve performance and reduce comebacks. Coverage for over 3 million VIO was added in February and an additional 2+ million VIO will be covered with the three new kits. “We have continued to evolve our line review process to assure that we efficiently bring to market products the industry needs based on real data and input from the field,” said Jerry Reeves, manager of product management for Dayco North America. “This is just an example of the type of expansions you’ll continue to see from the Dayco team.” The post Dayco Adds 55 New Parts to Portfolio appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

There is nothing simple about complex engine oil formulations. Effectively explaining to your customer how Valvoline’s Restore & Protect motor oil removes and prevents engine deposits may seem like a tough task. Dr. Michael Warholic, global technology director for Valvoline Global Operations, emphasizes the importance of visual evidence “Hey, look how this product performs,” said Warholic. “We have visuals showing that there’s a removal of deposits, that there is a reversing of the aging process in an engine. That’s a great case story to tell.” Warholic talks with Babcox Content Director Jason Morgan about the formulation process that sets Restore & Protect apart. The process involves a balance of various additives and components, tested rigorously in both laboratory and real-world conditions. It also involves combining base oils, viscosity modifiers, and a unique blend of additives. These additives include detergents to clean deposits, friction modifiers to reduce engine strain, and antioxidants to combat the breakdown of oil components. The goal was to create a motor oil that not only prevents the formation of new deposits but also removes existing ones, effectively rejuvenating the engine. “We wanted to do something different than everybody else,” said Warholic. “That’s what Restore and Protect does. It differentiates us from our competitors. It does something that no other oil does in the marketplace right now.” Restore & Protect could be considered a new category of motor oil that bridges the gap between conventional oils and high-mileage formulations. While high-mileage oils are designed for older engines, Restore & Protect is suitable for both new and aging engines. Its dual function of preventing new deposits and reversing existing ones makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of vehicles. This innovation is particularly valuable for engines operating under severe conditions, such as those used for towing or in high-traffic areas. The oil’s ability to handle these demanding environments while maintaining engine cleanliness offers a significant advantage over standard motor oils. “There’s always engine oil. Formulating is a little bit about give and take. The engine is a very complex machine. You have different temperatures, different pressures. It is really a very interesting field when you start digging into it.” “We do tons of data-driven testing. That’s what we live for.” The post From New to Old: Valvoline’s Restore & Protect Oil Transforms Engine Maintenance appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The automotive aftermarket’s premiere event, AAPEX 2024, is now just a matter of weeks away. As Carm Capriotto explains in the latest edition of AAPEX Insights, the event is not just an opportunity to explore new products, but a chance to significantly enhance your business. In this installment, Capriotto details the benefits of attending AAPEX. He recalls one shop owner’s enthusiasm as he discovered new products and networked with suppliers. This kind of interaction—seeing, touching and asking questions about new tools—provides a level of insight that online research simply cannot match. Capriotto discusses AAPEX with Matt Fanslow, manager at Riverside Automotive in Red Wing, MN, and host of the “Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z” podcast. They note a growing trend among shops that attend AAPEX: They return with renewed energy and knowledge that can directly boost their revenue. Any temporary disruption caused by closing a shop for a few days to attend AAPEX is outweighed by the increased efficiency and innovation that follows. Fanslow compares the AAPEX experience to a trip to Disney World—expensive but worth the investment. Just as people plan and sacrifice to make a memorable trip happen, investing in AAPEX can significantly improve your shop’s operations and team capabilities. The exposure to new technologies and networking opportunities can invigorate your business and motivate your team. The knowledge gained, the relationships built, and the new tools and techniques discovered at AAPEX can lead to substantial long-term benefits. This year’s show runs from November 5-7 in Las Vegas. You can register at AAPEXshow.com. The post The Automotive Business Boost at AAPEX 2024 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

FCS Automotive announced the release of 27 new numbers, all of which are in stock and ready to ship. The new numbers include: 8 Complete Strut Assemblies; 11 Suspension Struts; 2 Shock Absorber Assembly Kits; 4 Light Duty Shock Absorbers; and 2 heavy Duty Shock Absorbers. FCS said the new numbers cover applications like the BMW 3 Series, Freightliner, Hyundai Sonata, Infiniti QX60, International Series Trucks, Land Rover, Peugeot, Volkswagen Jetta and more. The post FCS Introduces 27 New Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper are excited to announce the launch of the 2024 Amazing New Ride Giveaway fall sweepstakes kicking off this September. Through the course of September, October and November, three lucky grand-prize winners will be selected, each receiving a brand-new vehicle of their choice. Professional technicians can earn entries with every qualifying $150 invoice from their Auto Value or Bumper to Bumper parts supplier. Also, MyPlace4Parts users are automatically entered with each invoice of $150. “But that’s not all, at the end of each day, daily purchases on MyPlace4Parts will be totaled, and every $150 increment will earn bonus sweepstakes entries,” said Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper. MyPlace4Parts is the parts ordering system designed specifically for the professional service dealer. It integrates seamlessly with popular shop management systems and offers a comprehensive e-commerce catalog, making it easy to find, order, and receive exactly what you need, the company said. “This will be another fantastic sweepstakes promotion from Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper,” said Jim Holik, director of marketing for Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper. “We appreciate the support of all of our valued channel partners who help make these promotions possible. We are geared up and ready to offer this exciting promotion to technicians and can’t wait to see who gets to walk away with an amazing new ride!” Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper are also giving away 240 gift cards to other lucky winners totaling $45,000. The official promotion drawings will take place on October 1st, November 1st, and December 15th, 2024, just in time for three lucky grand-prize winners to start the new year with a new set of wheels. The post Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Kick Off Fall Sweepstakes appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Autel Europe introduced its 480kW All-in-One DC Charger at the International Charging Network Conference (ICNC) 2024, held in Berlin, August 31 to September 3, 2024. The event brought together “key stakeholders from the EV charging industry, serving as a premier platform to explore the latest trends and technological advancements that are shaping the future of sustainable mobility,” the company said. The new generation maxichargers are equipped with Intelligent Matrix technology and the power module can be flexibly configured. “This innovative feature ensures continuous operation and optimal performance by distributing the load across multiple modules, enhancing reliability and efficiency. The 480kW All-in-One DC Charger is set to redefine the standard for fast and ultra-fast EV charging solutions,” Autel said in a statement announcing the new DC charger. “We were thrilled to introduce our latest advancements at ICNC 2024,” said Ting Cai, CEO of Autel Europe. “The New Generation Maxichargers mark a significant leap forward in charging technology, offering unprecedented power and reliability. With our 480kW All-in-One DC Charger, Autel is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the EV charging industry.” The post Autel Showcases All-in-One DC Charger at Charging Conference appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

General Motors released its dexos1 oil specification in 2011. It came about as part of an initiative to create a global oil specification to ensure consistent oil quality for engine development and production. This would also reduce the number of resources it took to maintain the multiple different specifications they had at the time. The testing required to meet the original dexos1 specification was a combination of some of the most rigorous tests in the industry. GM found that oils that didn’t meet the new dexos1 specification could affect engine performance and potentially cause engine damage, and as a result, not using it in a new GM vehicle that specified it could affect the engine warranty. During this time, low speed pre-ignition (LSPI) was becoming a problem with modern small displacement, direct injected, turbo charged engines. Heavier loads on these smaller engines were partly to blame for the increase in LSPI, but it was also discovered that certain detergents in the engine oil contributed to the problem, leading to the development of new engine oil chemistries. Another oil related challenge involved the widespread use of variable valve timing (VVT) systems, which require that engine oil acts as a hydraulic fluid. When used in these applications, air in the system will severely affect their operation, and resistance to aeration became a prevalent factor for motor oils. So, in 2015, GM introduced the dexos1 Gen 2 specification. This improved upon oxidation and deposit control, and this new oil met a new series of tests, including an LSPI test and a test measuring the oils resistance to aeration. The current dexos1 Gen 3 standard reflects a further reduction in oil degradation and deposit formation, as well as improved sludge control. Dexos1 Gen 3 oils are backwards compatible and acceptable for use where dexos1 and dexos1 Gen 2 is called for. Only licensed dexos products are vertified by GM to meet the dexos specifications. There are many engine oils which meet these specifications, and they can be easily identified, but there are two markings which must be present on an oil that meets the dexos specification. One is the dexos icon on the front label and the other is an 11-digit alphanumeric dexos license number which will be located on the back label. If an oil does not display both of these markings, it does not meet the dexos specification. Dexos2 was an original formulation that met the requirements for many gasoline and light duty diesel engines, but it is being discontinued in 2025 and replaced by dexos D for diesel engines and dexos R for gasoline engines. Dexos D is formulated for use in light duty diesel engines and is backward compatible for use in anything that previously called for dexos2. The latest dexos specification is dexos R, which is designed to withstand the punishment of high speed and high load conditions, such as those created during high performance driving. Certain new vehicles require it, such as the Corvette. Dexos R is backward compatible and can be used in any gasoline engine that calls for dexos2, dexos1 Gen 2 or dexos1 Gen 3 oil. The post The Dexos Connection appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

You might know them by one of their coined terms like quick struts or loaded struts, but either way, it means you’re getting a completely assembled strut, rather than one or many separate pieces. There are many advantages to this, many of which are best realized by remembering what brought about the idea in the first place. Before the common availability of a complete strut assembly, replacing a bad component in a strut required a coil spring compressor so the unit could be safely disassembled. It was far more labor intensive, and you always had to use caution working with the coil spring. A bad shock absorber was almost always the component that was being replaced, but a problem often encountered by technicians was that one of the other components such as a bushing or bearing would show considerable wear upon disassembly. Nobody wants to reassemble something with worn parts, and since many of the components weren’t considered “normal” service items, you would often have to wait a day or two to get them. This, of course, made for an inefficient repair, but it’s not the ultimate reason that assembled struts became popular. When strut suspension systems first saw widespread use, they were used on small, lightweight, front-wheel-drive vehicles. As a result, the coil springs rarely wore out or broke, and the only component that went bad frequently was the shock absorber itself, so it was common to disassemble the strut just to replace the shock. A completely assembled strut saves a lot of time and eliminates the possibility of mistakes. As the strut suspension design became more popular and the many advantages of it became clear, it quickly found its way onto full-size sedans and trucks. Suddenly, the struts were no longer holding up meager economy cars, and we began to see broken coil springs, worn bearings and strut mounts, and worn spring insulators, on top of worn shocks. Almost every time you disassembled a strut, you found that all the components needed to be replaced. Stocking all the different strut components for every make and model was cumbersome to say the least, but it was necessary, so the idea of offering a completely assembled strut was a welcome revelation. Limited at first to a few of the most common models, the idea took off quickly, and now you can get them for almost any application. The advantages for a counter-professional, a technician or a DIYer can be summed up the same way for all of us. It’s simply easier. Technicians prefer them, and almost always ask for them first. DIYers may not be familiar with them, so as a counter-professional, you may have to explain the advantages. Safety is number one. There’s no danger involved when you don’t have to compress and remove the coil spring, and it saves on the tool too, which a DIYer will either need to borrow or buy. Even though it’s possible that purchasing a single component such as a shock absorber or coil spring may be less expensive, the process of building or assembling the strut is where the biggest hurdle can arise. Overall, there aren’t too many different pieces involved, but there are almost always some type of spacers and washers. Placement is critical, and it’s easy to make mistakes or lose one of the small components without realizing it. You can end up with a strut that rattles excessively or, in the case of a front strut, binds up during turns. An assembled strut eliminates the possibility of any of these problems. There’s also a savings in labor time, which trickles down to the customer who’s paying the bill, or if you’re doing the job on your car, it saves your personal time, and nobody complains about that. The advantage of all-new components allows you to guarantee proper performance, no noise or rattles, and a long-term repair. The final part of the equation is that struts should always be replaced in pairs, and you’ll often have to explain why. No, you can’t stop somebody from buying just one, but replacing only one side means you’ll have unequal performance side-to-side, and as we all know, if one side is worn out, then the other is, too. It’s as simple as that. Selling completely assembled high- quality struts is the quickest way to a satisfied customer, and it makes your job easier, too. Occasionally, you might have an old-school customer who wants to do it the hard way, but install complete strut assemblies once, and it’s all they’ll ever ask for. The post The Complete Strut Advantage appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NTN, the parent company of BCA Bearings, has announced the launch of the BCA Wheel Hub with Hardware Kits product line. The initial launch of this new product line includes 27 new SKUs for popular import and domestic applications and represents coverage for over 16.3 million vehicles in operation. “Adding these new Wheel Hub with Hardware Kits to the BCA product line gives our customers the option of a premium, OE-quality wheel hub that includes all of the professional grade hardware,” said Matt Gorski, Manager of Product Development. The hardware included varies by SKU and includes hub mounting bolts/studs, axle/CV nuts, axle/CV bolts, axle/CV washers, snap rings/circlips, dust caps, grease seals, and O-rings. Applicable kits also include access to the BCA Bearings Torque Spec Lookup App, which allows installers to access torque specs and any special torque procedures for the proper installation of these products with a scan of a QR code. The post BCA Bearings Launches Wheel Hub with Hardware Kits Product Line appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

AutoShack announced it is expanding its footprint with the addition of a new, state-of-the-art 250,000-square-foot warehouse at 115 Journeyman St, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. This strategic move supports AutoShack’s ongoing growth and addresses the increasing demand for high-quality automotive parts across Canada and the U.S., the company said. The facility’s prime location at Huntmar and Campeau, in Ottawa, Canada, was selected for its access to the 417 Highway, which will significantly enhance AutoShack’s logistics and distribution capabilities, leading to improved efficiency and better service for our customers, added the company. “This expansion is a key milestone in AutoShack’s long-term growth strategy and reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional service,” said Gary Calagoure, president of AutoShack. The post AutoShack Expanding With New Warehouse appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

G&H Import Auto Parts, a shareholder of Automotive Parts Associates, is celebrating its 50th anniversary in August of 2024. Located in Oak Lawn, IL, the company specializes in distributing Asian and European automotive parts along with performance accessories. Established in 1974 by Gene Bochinski and his cousin, G&H Import Auto Parts originated from the challenges posed by the 1970s gas crisis and the scarcity of foreign car parts at the time. In a news release announcing the anniversary, G&H Auto Parts said it joined APA in 2005 after learning about the organization at a SIPS (Society of Import Parts Specialists) meeting and attending an Annual General Meeting. “I was so impressed by the connection that people had with others in the room,” said Bochinski, “It’s still my favorite part of being in a group like APA.” “We are glad that Gene is a part of APA,” said Steve Tucker, president of APA. “He’s done great work with G&H and we hope to work with him for many more years to come.” Reflecting on the past five decades, Bochinski shared, “The automotive business is evolving constantly. If you take a month off, you are already behind. One of the great things about being in business so long is that I’ve made a lot of really good friends.” The post G&H Import Auto Parts Celebrates 50th Anniversary appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Fisher Auto Parts announced the acquisition of Rowe Auto Service, marking the company’s third acquisition since the Berrodin Parts Warehouse affiliation in October 2023, and is in addition to 32 greenfield locations opened year-to-date in 2024 and 30 locations opened in 2023. Fisher also announced that the recently purchased 217,000 sq. ft. distribution center in Chicopee, Massachusetts, is expected to open in March 2025. Rowe Auto Service in Oneonta, NY, has been owned and operated by the Odell and Hogan families for nearly 60 years. It was purchased by Howard J. Odell and Joseph R. Hogan in June 1964 from the original Rowe brothers. Their sons Lance E. Odell and Joseph D. Hogan worked in the business and, in June 1995, purchased the company from their fathers. They will stay on with Fisher Auto Parts beyond the transition. “As a family-owned, privately held business with an experienced team of professionals, Rowe Auto Service is a good fit for Fisher Auto Parts,” said Geoffrey Shifflett, area vice president of Fisher Auto Parts. “We plan to grow market share in this region, so we are very pleased that Lance and Joe agreed to pass the torch to us, and we thank them for staying on to help with the transition.” The post Fisher Auto Parts Acquires Rowe Auto Service appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Niterra North America Inc., formerly NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc., announced the company is expanding its ignition coil line with the introduction of 28 new part numbers for domestic and import lines covering 24M VIO. The new part numbers will increase the total coil portfolio SKU count to 311 parts covering 260M VIO, according to Niterra. “We are excited to expand our line of OEM-quality ignition coil part numbers now available for a wide range of popular makes and models,” stated Karl Farlow – product manager, Niterra North America. “This expansion underscores our commitment to delivering superior performance and reliability to our customers and service providers in the aftermarket.” The post Niterra Expands Ignition Coil Coverage with 28 New Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

As an industry, we sell and install a LOT of oil filters. The City of San Diego estimates that number at roughly 425 million filters nationwide each year. From DIYers to professional service shops, that means literally TONS of waste generated annually. The recyclable steel alone adds up to 160 million tons, and nearly 20 million gallons of residual waste oil is trapped in those used filters. Most of those filters are still of the spin-on canister type, but cartridge filters have been gaining popularity among OEMs over the past two decades. Surprisingly, the idea of engine oil filtration is only a century old, with the first commercial oil filter debuting in 1923. With a cloth media placed inside a steel container, it was essentially a cartridge filter. Cellulose paper eventually replaced the cloth media, often with metal caps and center cores adding support to the pleated element. Compared to the cartridges on our shelves today, they were bulky and less efficient, but provided added protection for those vehicles that used a filter at all. Oil filters were not a standard feature on many vehicles, even into the late 1960s, and air-cooled VW Beetles utilized a metal “strainer” rather than a disposable filter element up through 1979. The spin-on filter we know today was not invented until the mid-1950s, but the ease and convenience of the design meant it would quickly become an industry standard for another 50 years. As environmental concerns began to dictate many OEM manufacturing and engineering decisions, increased oil change intervals and a shift toward lightweight materials led to the resurgence of the cartridge filter. Synthetic filter media now allows for increased efficiency and longer service life, and the use of non-metallic structural materials decreases overall weight and reduces material costs. Recycling used oil filters continues to be an environmental issue, with residual oil being the most difficult element to recover. It can account for up to 45% of the weight of a used oil filter. Cartridge filters may be the future of LOF service, but there are a few drawbacks as we transition toward that future. Where the spin-on canister filter is a self-contained disposable unit, cartridge filters live inside a permanent housing which is susceptible to damage during service. Open the filter package and you will likely discover one or more O-ring seals, indicating that there will also be “some assembly required.” Accessing the filter element often requires the use of a specialty socket to unscrew the housing cap. The O-ring(s) must be replaced to ensure proper sealing and prevent future leakage. This adds extra steps (and time) to an already low-profit service, and introduces more potential for errors. Like an oil pan drain plug, these caps also have specific torque specs that are often ignored by DIYers (and some hurried technicians), leading to leakage, and potentially damaged caps or housings. The housing design itself may also become an issue when cataloging filters, caps and associated components. GM 1.4L and 1.8L engines are one of the most commonly miscatalogued modern filters, with some featuring housings supplied by Hengst, and others by UFI. These housings and filters are fundamentally different, and are NOT interchangeable. The Hengst housing features an integrated bypass valve, and the OEM cap is made of black plastic. The UFI design relies on a bypass valve built into the filter element, and the OEM caps were brown in color. Note that aftermarket caps might not have the correct color plastic, or the OE supplier’s name. When in doubt, check the aluminum housing itself, or compare the filters before installation. The Chrysler 3.6L engine is another “problem child” when it comes to the filter housing. The OE plastic housing design is prone to fluid leaks from the base gaskets, and cracking when the cap is overtorqued. The aftermarket was quick to engineer an upgraded aluminum housing, which solves many of the design flaws of the original. Vehicle applications from 2011 through 2013 use the Mopar MO744 equivalent filter. For 2014 to present, the housing was redesigned, and features a longer MO349 equivalent filter. Many aftermarket versions are available to fit either housing design, but some require use of the newer-style filter for all years. Verify the model year as well as the originality of the housing, especially for the earlier applications. Oil filters aren’t the only application for cartridge-style elements. While fuel filters are rapidly becoming obsolete in gasoline applications, modern diesel fuel and water separator filters are shifting toward cartridge designs, and there are now a dozen or so global transmissions featuring cartridge filtration. This change benefits the environment, reduces the processing challenges and volume of shop waste, and will eventually drive down individual filter pricing as these elements become the rule rather than the exception. The future of filtration is looking pretty bright! The post The Future of Filtration appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Auto Care Association is calling on its members and the wider auto care community to take immediate action in the fight for the right to repair with the launch of the “#RighttoRepair, RIGHT NOW” challenge. The initiative encourages every member to send a new letter to their legislator, demanding swift action on Right to Repair legislation. The challenge is designed to amplify the voices of consumers and industry professionals alike, ensuring that their message reaches the halls of Congress. As part of the challenge, participants are asked not only to urge their legislators to pass H.R. 906, “The REPAIR Act,” but also to spread the word by tagging three colleagues, friends or industry peers on social media, urging them to do the same. Here’s how to participate in the #RighttoRepair, RIGHT NOW challenge in three steps: Send a New Letter: Visit repairact.com to send our updated letter to your legislator. Take a Selfie: Take a selfie featuring a message that you took action. Post about your action on social media, using the hashtag #RighttoRepair. Tag More People: Challenge three others to do the same by tagging them directly in your post. “As summer comes to a close and Congress picks back up from its August recess, it is now a critical moment for us to make as much noise as possible on the right to repair issue to capture the attention of our elected officials,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association. “We want to make sure Congress knows how important right to repair is to the American people, and one of the best ways to capture their attention is through grassroots efforts like the ‘#RighttoRepair, RIGHT NOW’ challenge. In the shadow of an election that is less than 100 days away, I ask that all members of our industry partake in this social media campaign with us to keep this fight for the right to repair alive on Capitol Hill.” The Auto Care Association provides all the resources necessary to participate in this campaign, including letter templates, legislator contact information, and social media graphics. You can get started by visiting repairact.com today and sending a new letter. The post ‘#RighttoRepair, RIGHT NOW’ Challenge Launches appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

To hear my mother tell it, getting me up and ready for school in the mornings was an exercise in her patience. I don’t remember it quite that way, but I do recall regularly hearing the phrase “get your rear in gear, or you’re gonna be late!” These days, I’m generally the first person at work in the morning, spending an hour gearing up for the day ahead, and the only rear end gears I have to worry about are inside differential cases. Identification of an axle/differential generally defaults to the ring gear diameter. Most OEMs refer to their axle assemblies using a combination of callouts, including ring gear, axle manufacturer (corporate, Dana, American Axle, Sterling, etc.) and diff cover bolt count. At the counter, we use these as shorthand for identifying the customer’s needed components. There are generally enough identifying characteristics for us to decide between any available options, but some diffs are a little different. Dana axles are found in a wide variety of light trucks and SUVs, and are so well-known that we generally catalog parts based solely on the legacy Dana model number (with 30, 35, 44, 50, 60, 70, 80 being the most common), rather than ring gear diameter or cover bolt count. These Dana axles all feature “10-bolt” covers, so that’s a non-starter to an identification conversation. The model 50, 60 and 70 all share a diff cover design, so size and shape won’t help there, either. The Model 50 was used exclusively as a Ford front differential, leaving the 60 and 70 as the only confusing rear option. Identification through casting or tag numbers, when available, is still the best option. Ring gear diameter for each model is as shown here: MODEL: 30 35 44 50 60 70 80 Diameter: 7.2” 7.562” 8.5” 9” 9.75” 10.5” 11.25” Dana/Spicer has widely replaced most of these legacy models, and introduced a new model numbering convention. With names like M186, M226, M235 and more, we can now easily determine ring gear diameter, now expressed in millimeters as part of the model number. There can be some confusion, as Dana and the vehicle OEMs continue to refer to the legacy Dana model numbers these new models were based on. Application information continues to be of the utmost importance when selecting between similar Dana configurations! Most of our differential parts sales are bearings, seals, gaskets and lubricants. Once ring gear diameter has been identified, we are usually in the clear, unless the customer also needs a replacement ring and pinion gear set. When selecting ring and pinion sets, we also require the gear ratio, which can be found by dividing the number of teeth on the ring gear by the number of teeth on the pinion shaft. A differential with a 3.42:1 gear ratio has 41 teeth on the ring gear, and 12 teeth on the pinion gear (41÷12=3.42). To rotate the ring gear (and therefore the wheels) one complete revolution, the pinion shaft (and the driveshaft) must turn 3.42 times. These numbers can be confusing, since “lower” gear ratios are actually represented by larger numbers, and vice-versa. (For example, a truck running 4.10:1 gears is geared lower than the same truck with 3.42:1 gears, even though the first number in the ratio is larger.) Selecting the correct gear ratio for a stock replacement ring and pinion set is important for two reasons: First, altering the differential gear ratio on a rear-wheel-drive vehicle can affect fuel economy, cruising speed, towing performance, and engine RPM, either running at higher engine RPM (which occurs when a gear lower than the original is installed), or giving up low-end power and torque (which happens when a higher gear ratio than the original is used). The second reason concerns four-wheel-drive vehicles driven on pavement. The front and rear differentials must share the same gear ratio (within approximately 1%), otherwise binding or breakage may occur in the drivetrain, as the two dissimilar gearsets attempt to rotate at different speeds. For off-road, performance, or racing applications, you may also encounter instances where the customer is changing their gear ratio. Understanding the effects of installing higher and lower ratio gearsets should help you both agree on the appropriate ring and pinion for their particular needs. So, whether you are called upon to supply a single bearing, or to assemble a full assortment of axle components, differential component sales needn’t be “diff”icult! The post Get Your Rear in Gear: Deciphering Differentials appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Advance Auto Parts, Inc. announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell Worldpac, Inc., to funds managed by global investment firm Carlyle for $1.5 billion in cash. The transaction is expected to close before the end of the year. “We are pleased to announce the sale of the Worldpac business,” said Shane O’Kelly, president and chief executive officer. “The sale enables our team to sharpen their focus on decisive actions to turn around the Advance blended box business. Proceeds from the transaction will provide greater financial flexibility as we continue our strategic and operational review to improve the productivity of the company’s remaining assets and better position the company for future growth and value creation. On behalf of everyone at Advance, I would like to thank the more than 5,000 Worldpac team members for their dedication over the last ten years.” “We are excited to partner with Worldpac, a great business operating in attractive markets,” said Wes Bieligk, a Partner, and Katherine Barasch, a senior member of Carlyle’s Global Industrials investing team. “Our proven track record in executing complex carve-outs position us uniquely to support Worldpac and its team as an independent company.” Carlyle’s investment in Worldpac builds on the firm’s extensive carve-out experience in the Industrials sector, having invested ~$13 billion in industrial carve-outs over the past two decades, including in such companies as Axalta, Nouryon, Atotech, Signode, and Allison Transmission. Transaction Details Over the last 12 months, at the end of the second quarter of 2024, the Worldpac business generated approximately $2.1 billion in revenue and approximately $100 million in EBITDA. Advance expects net proceeds of approximately $1.2 billion after taxes and transaction fees. The post Advance Announces Sale of Worldpac to Carlyle for $1.5B appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article