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DieHard® Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary With Product Launch On Amazon.com Assortment To Include Batteries, Jump Starters, Battery Chargers and Passenger Car Tires Dec 14, 2017 HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., Dec. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The DieHard brand announced today that it is celebrating 50 years of trusted performance with the launch of DieHard products on Amazon.com. Starting today an assortment of DieHard jump starters, battery chargers and maintainers are available for purchase at www.amazon.com/diehard. Passenger car tires and automotive batteries will be added to Amazon.com in early 2018. "DieHard is America's most trusted and preferred automotive battery brand and the collaboration with Amazon makes it easier for millions to shop the brand," said Tom Park, President of Kenmore, Craftsman and DieHard brands at Sears Holdings. "As we have previously stated, we want to diversify the revenue streams of our iconic brands and launching on Amazon.com will significantly expand the distribution and availability of the DieHard brand in the U.S., building on the success of our recent Kenmore appliances launch on Amazon.com." DieHard products now available on Amazon.com: Jump starters and vehicle battery chargers and maintainers - A range of battery-related accessories are now available to help jump start and charge batteries. Jump starters: An assortment of portable power products meet the performance needs of batteries. These include the DieHard compact lithium jump starter + phone charger, which can top off a phone's charge and even jump start a 6-cylinder engine. Vehicle battery chargers and maintainers: A selection of compact shelf chargers and high-powered wheel chargers are available. These include the Wi-Fi enabled DieHard smart charger and maintainer, which allow users to check and charge their battery from a smart device, providing convenience and peace of mind. DieHard products coming soon to Amazon.com: Automotive batteries and tires DieHard Advanced Gold Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries – The non-spillable batteries are designed to provide greater maintenance-free reliability and performance during severe weather such as snow, extreme cold, sleet, rain and heat. The battery also is specifically designed to power today's vehicles, which draw more energy for start/stop ignitions and accessories, such as onboard DVD, navigation systems, and back-up cameras. Passenger tires - Finally, a tire that lives up to its name. DieHard Silver Touring All-Season tires are engineered with rugged quality and innovation, inside and out. Key features include: Nylon Belt Edge Layers, which increase steering response and cornering. Tension Control Technology, which optimizes ground contact and distributes pressure for better braking and less wear. Cross-Angle Sipes, which create biting edges for better traction in wet/wintry conditions. Tire Profile Optimization, which enhances performance by uniformly expanding the center and shoulder region of the contact area. Advanced Carbon Tread Compound, which promotes long, healthy tire life. 70,000-Mile Limited Warranty, which provides lasting customer satisfaction. DieHard has demonstrated its power as a brand in the past two years with the successful launch of the DieHard Silver Touring A/S passenger car tires. A national survey among automotive tire purchasers in late 2015 ranked DieHard among the top five leading tire brands, even though DieHard tires did not exist at the time. Within six months of launching in August 2016 at Sears Auto Centers, DieHard tires became one of the leading passenger tire brands at Sears. Other recent innovations from the DieHard brand include: Launch of the industry leading Wi-Fi smart battery maintainer that remotely provides vehicle battery health on a smart phone or tablet, giving users peace of mind. Launch of a compact lithium jump starter + smart phone charger. It is compact, yet powerful enough to jump start up to 20 vehicles on a single charge. The opening of three DieHard Auto Centers in San Antonio, Texas; Troy, Mich. and Roseville, Mich. They offer state-of-the-art technology and services in a contemporary, comfortable setting – that, combined with service from our experienced associates, can help today's drivers make the right choices for their vehicle's needs. About Sears Holdings Corporation Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD) is a leading integrated retailer focused on seamlessly connecting the digital and physical shopping experiences to serve our members - wherever, whenever and however they want to shop. Sears Holdings is home to Shop Your Way®, a social shopping platform offering members rewards for shopping at Sears and Kmart as well as with other retail partners across categories important to them. The Company operates through its subsidiaries, including Sears, Roebuck and Co. and Kmart Corporation, with full-line and specialty retail stores across the United States. For more information, visit www.searsholdings.com About the DieHard Brand Introduced in 1967, Sears designed the original DieHard automotive battery to produce 35 percent more usable starting power than other similar batteries. Featuring a revolutionary tough, thin-walled case of translucent polypropylene plastic, which was 50 percent thinner than conventional black rubber-type battery enclosures, the design's extra room meant bigger plates, more acid and extra starting power. During testing, not a single failure was reported in over 26,000 starts in temperatures ranging from sub-zero to more than 100 degrees, hence the name "DieHard." See more DieHard history and compelling "Battery Torture" video at www.DieHard.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Whenever used, words such as "will," "expect," and other terms of similar meaning are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, including these, are based on the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are subject to significant risks, assumptions and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Detailed descriptions of risks, uncertainties and factors relating to Sears Holdings are discussed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. While we believe that our forecasts and assumptions are reasonable, we caution that actual results may differ materially. We intend the forward-looking statements to speak only as of the time made and do not undertake to update or revise them as more information becomes available, except as required by law. Media Contact: Larry Costello Sears / DieHard (847) 286-9036 [email protected] SOURCE Sears Holdings Corporation

Brake rotors may be replaced for a variety of reasons. One is that replacement is a must if the original rotors are worn out. Every rotor has a minimum thickness or discard specification cast or stamped somewhere on the center hat section of the rotor. When the brake pads are replaced, the rotors always should be measured with a micrometer to determine their thickness. If the rotors are worn too thin and are at or below the minimum or discard thickness (or they cannot be resurfaced without exceeding the limit), the rotors must be replaced. Worn-out rotors are dangerous for two reasons: Thin rotors cannot absorb and dissipate heat as well as new rotors, which increases the risk of the pads getting too hot and fading with prolonged or heavy braking. Also, thin rotors are more likely to crack and break apart, which would cause brake failure. Another condition that usually calls for rotor replacement is when the rotors are “warped” and are causing a vibration or pulsation when the brakes are applied. Warped is actually a misnomer, because the rotors are not distorted but are worn unevenly. When there is more than a couple thousandths variation in rotor thickness, it pushes the pads in and out when the brakes are applied. The force is transmitted back through the caliper pistons, brake lines and master cylinder all the way to the brake pedal, creating a vibration or pulsation that can be felt by the driver. The greater the variation in rotor thickness, the stronger the vibration or pulsation. It’s a really annoying condition, though not necessarily an unsafe one. It may be mistaken by the vehicle owner for a problem with their antilock brake system, which also can produce pedal pulsation or vibrations when the ABS system kicks into play. Uneven rotor wear and thickness variations can be caused by severe rotor overheating (a dragging brake pad or stuck caliper), by distortion in the rotor caused by uneven torque or over-tightening the lug nuts, or even metallurgical defects in the rotor casting itself. High spots on the rotor will often be discolored with a dark bluish tint. Resurfacing the rotor can restore flat parallel surfaces, but often the hard spots that are caused by overheating or uneven wear extend into the metal surface. Over time, this will cause uneven wear again and the pedal pulsation or vibration to return. Replacing the rotors with new ones eliminates any such worries. Rotors also must be replaced if they are cracked, damaged or severely corroded. The danger is rotor failure due to the cracks or severe corrosion. Some minor heat cracking on the surface may be acceptable, but heavy or deep cracking is not. Another reason to replace rotors is to upgrade braking performance and/or the appearance of the vehicle. Drilled or slotted rotors do add a performance look to any brake system, and they also can provide improved cooling for the rotors and venting for the pads. The holes and/or slots provide an escape path for hot gases that can form between the pads and rotor when the brakes are working hard. Holes and slots or wavy grooves in the rotor face also create turbulence, which improves airflow and cooling. Some vehicles come factory-equipped with “composite” rotors that have a thin stamped steel center hat section mated with a cast rotor body to save weight. This type of rotor tends to be more sensitive to uneven wear and distortion than one-piece cast rotors. Composite rotors also are more costly to replace, so one-piece aftermarket cast rotors are a replacement option. However, if replacing composite rotors with one-piece castings, both rotors (right and left) should be replaced at the same time to maintain even braking and alignment side-to-side. On some vehicles, replacing a composite rotor with a thicker cast rotor also may alter wheel geometry slightly, creating increased toe-out and tire wear when turning. Source: http://www.counterman.com/replace-brake-rotors/

“Tommy Boy,” starring David Spade and Chris Farley, is the ultimate movie about automotive parts. In fact, it might be the only movie in which auto parts play a fundamental role in the story. While Tommy Callahan (Farley) and Richard Hayden (Spade) aren’t counter professionals, their cross-country journey in the 1995 film can serve as a valuable resource to anyone who sells auto parts for a living. These clips can teach you what to do – well, mostly what NOT to do – when trying to make a sale. 1. Don’t take “no” for an answer. 2. Guarantees are meaningless. 3. Relax – and be yourself. 4. Don’t try to be too clever. 5. Don’t set anything on fire. Source: http://www.counterman.com/sell-auto-parts-lessons-tommy-boy/

On Dec. 2, O’Reilly Auto Parts marked its 60th year in business. O’Reilly Automotive opened its first store on Dec. 2, 1957, in Springfield, Mo., with 13 employees. In 1958, its first full year, the store totaled $700,000 in sales, according to the O’Reilly website. Fast-forward to 2016, when the company reported $8.6 billion in sales. As of 2016, O’Reilly had more than 74,000 employees at 4,829 stores in 47 states, according to the company’s annual report. The company’s 27 distribution centers stock an average of 148,000 part numbers, according to the company. The annual report emphasizes that team members are O’Reilly’s greatest assets. “O’Reilly’s promote-from-within philosophy allows us to continually perpetuate our culture and instill our values in each new member of Team O’Reilly,” the company explains. “Our experienced, well-trained, technically proficient store teams are equipped to provide industry-leading customer service in every new store we open.”

If you weren’t able to attend AAPEX in Las Vegas, don’t despair: Babcox Media brings you two of the most exciting publications available to show attendees - the Show Daily and Product Plus. Click on the image to launch your Product Plus digital edition Product Plus brings you exciting products introduced at the AAPEX show as well as various award winners in several product categories. Click on the AAPEX Express images to launch your daily digital editions (L to R: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3) The Show Daily recaps each day of AAPEX, packed with news on award recipients, training opportunities and other show highlights.

Bosch introduced at AAPEX 2017 the new 3823 ESI[truck]Pro heavy-duty diagnostic tool. Bosch says the 3823 features the most heavy-duty vehicle coverage in its price range to scan, diagnose, troubleshoot and repair trucks faster. Bosch’s new heavy-duty diagnostic tool includes OEM-specific coverage, manual DPF regeneration capabilities, component actuations and actuation tests. With the 3823, techs and shops also receive brake, transmission and trailer ABS coverage for more diagnostic power. The new diagnostic tool covers all major heavy-duty truck, medium-duty truck, engine, transmission, and brake system combinations with diagnostics, component actuations, special tests and automatic module identification for Class 6-8 trucks. The 3823 ESI[truck]Pro comes as a 10.1-inch rugged Windows tablet or as a PC kit. Both versions include all makes/models heavy-duty coverage, data stream and component actuations. ESI[truck] Pro will help technicians: Read and clear codes Run DPF regeneration and maintenance resets Perform actuation tests and component actuations Auto ID for Class 6-8 vehicles to find and talk to vehicle modules Read OE-specific brake and trailer ABS modules and run tests Conduct cylinder cut-out actuation tests Wirelessly communicate with heavy-duty trucks Create customizable diagnostic and health reports An available troubleshooting and repair info subscription can reduce diagnostic time with confirmed fixes, diagnostic help and vehicle-specific info based on trouble codes, year, make, model, engine and data sets. The Bosch 3823ESI[truck]Pro covers all heavy-duty on-road vehicles including some of the most popular and frequently seen by techs, fleets and in shops: Heavy-duty Diagnostics coverage: Freightliner, International, Kenworth, Mack, Volvo, Peterbilt, Sterling, Westernstar, MD Trucks, Sprinter Van, Isuzu, GM and Ford. Engine coverage: Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel-MBE, Deutz, MTU, Navistar, PACCAR, Perkins and Volvo, and includes medium- and light-duty basic software. Adhering to industry communication standard RP1210, the tool will read and clear codes, perform calibrations, track service schedules, read data streams and component technical data. It also includes basic OBD II scan for light-duty trucks 1996 and newer. New diagnostic software for Bosch’s heavy-duty tools is available three times per year, with a one-year subscription, including all three updates. New tools include a one-year subscription, providing techs with 12 months of engine, brake, transmission, ABS coverage and more. Also available from Bosch heavy-duty diagnostics are the 3824 ESI[truck]Expert tool and HDS 200 heavy-duty code reader. The 3824 features all coverage found in 3823 and adds system info, technical info, parameter configurations, change calibrations, wiring diagrams, injector coding and service schedules. The heavy-duty code reader displays and graphs live data from SAE standard MIDS/PIDS along with on-screen definitions of diagnostic trouble codes and is HD-OBD compatible.

Michelin has launched five new wiper blades designed for safer driving in all weather conditions. The new product lines include two hybrid blades: MICHELIN Cyclone and MICHELIN Storm, two beam blades: MICHELIN Radius and MICHELIN Endurance, and one conventional blade: MICHELIN HydroEdge. The new product lines are now available in retail stores across North America, including Pep Boys, Menards, Benny’s, Mills Fleet Farm, Blains Farm & Fleet and online through Amazon.com. The new MICHELIN Storm wiper blades will be available early 2018. “We’re pleased to introduce these innovative new wiper blade designs in time for winter weather,” said Steve Harris, Pylon’s new vice president of sales. “Whether a driver selects Michelin’s hybrid, beam or conventional styles, all wiper blades are engineered for enhanced performance in rain, snow and ice. Our priority is to produce exceptional wiper blades for improved visibility and the safest drive possible.” Hybrid Blades Hybrid blades combine the windshield-hugging features of a conventional spring-loaded blade with the anti-snow build-up feature of a beam blade for superior streak and noise free wiping in rain, ice and snow, the company says. The MICHELIN Cyclone and MICHELIN Storm hybrid wiper blades feature an exclusive Smart-Flex technology that automatically adjusts wiper blade contact pressure across the curvature of the windshield to deliver outstanding windshield wiping performance. The MICHELIN Storm wiper blades also feature new WeatherShield technology that is infused into the wiper structure to repel rain, snow and ice for superior wiping in the most severe weather conditions. Beam Blades Michelin’s two new beam blades are equipped with a curved frameless beam design to provide even more wipe pressure for smooth, quiet wipes and improved visibility. The MICHELIN Radius and MICHELIN Endurance wiper blades are designed for enhanced performance in rain, snow and ice. A built-in aerodynamic spoiler grips the windshield under the toughest conditions, and infinite pressure points provide better windshield control. Engineered for durable wiping in extreme weather conditions, the wiper frame and suspension system are covered to protect the blades from clogging with ice and snow. Conventional Blades The new MICHELIN HydroEdge conventional wiper blades are engineered for all-weather performance in rain, snow and ice. An aerovented riveted blade design with multiple pressure points and compression-molded rubber ensures quiet, streak free wipes. The aerodynamic heavy-duty steel frame adds strength and durability. The new hybrid and beam blades all feature a premium endurance-tested Dura-Glide rubber coating for advanced durability, quieter performance and extended blade life. All new wiper blades include the MICHELIN EZ-LOK Connector System, which attaches to most plastic arm types and allows for hassle-free installation, according to the company

Centric Parts, a division of APC Automotive Technologies, and North America’s leading manufacturer and supplier of aftermarket brake and chassis components, has just introduced the next generation of disc brake pads. Called PQ PRO by Posi Quiet, this advanced friction line has been developed with the professional technician in mind and addresses key service issues that plague many of today’s professional service technicians and their customers, such as brake fade, weak braking response and excessive noise. In developing PQ PRO Disc Brake Pads, Centric Parts combined its brake friction development capabilities with cutting edge technology enhancements. PQ PRO is a brake pad line that offers confidence and peace of mind to the technician and delivers safety and comfort to the customer. PQ PRO features application-specific friction compounds engineered to match or exceed original performance specifications, to ensure reliable stopping power. The pads are enhanced with the addition of a Mu500 friction coating that provides an immediate increase in Mu (stopping power) right out of the box. Advanced multi-layer shims are employed to eliminate noise. Specifically designed hardware is included with each brake pad set to guarantee full restoration of brake system performance, extend service life and eliminate noise caused by pad vibration. To increase technician and customer confidence, every set of PQ PRO brake pads is backed by a one-year Centric Assured Roadside Assistance Guarantee, which provides the customer added peace of mind and a free ride back to the shop for any brake related issue. The new PQ PRO by Posi Quiet brake pad line offers application coverage for a wide range of passenger cars, light trucks, vans and SUVs. The PQ PRO line features more than 1,200 SKUs, covering 108 vehicles makes and 2,393 models from 1957 to 2019. PQ PRO by Posi Quiet joins the extensive Centric Parts brake pad product lineup, which includes Posi Quiet, Centric Premium, Tactical Police, Fleet Performance and CTek.

Comparable store sales rose 1.8% in quarter, below estimates Company forecasts flat-to-2% growth for fourth-quarter sales An O'Reilly Automotive Inc. auto parts store in Louisville, Kentucky. Photographer: Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg A rout of car-parts retailers is persisting as O’Reilly Automotive Inc. warned same-store sales growth could grind to a halt late this year, rekindling concern that competition from e-commerce may be eroding demand at brick and mortar stores. Sales at O’Reilly’s existing stores rose 1.8 percent in the third quarter, falling short of the 2 percent average increase analysts estimated. That growth could slow further in the final three months of the year, when O’Reilly forecasts same-store sales will be flat or up as much as 2 percent. Auto-parts retailers and repair chains have been pummeled in the stock market this year after several reported profit and sales that missed estimates in the first quarter. At first, companies blamed weak demand on delayed tax refunds and a mild winter that reduced the need for drivers to replace components. As the slowdown stretched into spring, investors speculated competition from Amazon.com Inc. -- which has begun to mount an offensive on the industry -- was eating into earnings results. “We continued to face a challenging demand environment and experienced severe weather in various parts of the country,” Chief Executive Officer Greg Henslee said in a statement. Demand in the fourth quarter will be hit by “expected continuation of the business trends we experienced in the first nine months of this year,” plus calendar headwinds like the day of the week when Christmas falls, he said. Longer term, “demand drivers for our industry remain intact and positive, including increasing annual miles driven and a growing and aging vehicle fleet,” Henslee said. O’Reilly shares fell 6.8 percent to $188.94 at 4:36 p.m. in New York after the end of regular trading. They’ve tumbled 27 percent this year through Wednesday’s close, wiping out more than $8 billion of market capitalization.

QUESTION - I have a 2013 Hyundai Genesis coupe with rear-wheel drive. I would like to install two snow tires at the rear to help with fishtailing. The tire dealer said I would need four snow tires. Can I get by with only two rear snow tires? — A.V., Chicago A: Today's winter tires are better at providing ice and snow traction than ever before, states Tire Rack, which tests and sells many brands of tires. The company reports that “7 out of 10 vehicle manufacturers recommend four winter tires be used on rear-wheel, front-wheel or four-wheel-drive vehicles. This is because if you use two dissimilar types of tires on your vehicle, you'll have a vehicle that has a ‘split personality.’ One end of the vehicle won't react and perform the same as the other. Especially in emergency situations, you'll find that your vehicle will probably understeer in one condition and oversteer in another. It is preferable to keep your vehicle’s handling as consistent as possible by matching all four tires.” Q: I have a new Chevy Traverse, but washing the inside front window is quite a challenge. Any suggestions? — J.B., Joliet, Ill. A: Not only windshields, but rear windows can be a challenge. For years, we have used a Stoner cleaning tool. It’s like a miniature Swiffer with a two-foot handle and hinged wiping pad shaped like the ace of spades. There are other brands and tools in auto parts and other stores We suggest a two-step process of cleaning with automotive glass cleaner followed by polishing with a clean, soft microfiber cloth. Q: My 2013 Miata has come down with several cases of the dashboard rattle. What sounded like a loose bolt rolling back and forth behind the dashboard turned out to be a loose bolt that had become unattached from the left sun visor. When I lowered the visor, the bolt fell into my lap. An easy fix. The next loose bolt, which I was certain was behind the dash, dropped down from the right sun visor. Another easy fix. Last week, however, another loose bolt, but no easy fix. It cost $127 at my dealer to learn that yet another bolt had come loose, this time from the roof latch at the window frame. When the mechanic removed the covering along the windshield frame, the bolt fell into his lap. Was $127 for 20 minutes of work a fair price? — A.G., South Milwaukee, Wis. A: If the shop’s labor charge is $381 per hour, it is a fair price. Yet there is intrinsic value in the mechanic’s knowledge. This reminds us of the story of the day an IT technician was asked if he could help identify the problem with a desktop computer. The tech walked up to the unit and tapped the case on the side and it sprang back to life. The owner was thrilled, and told him to send an invoice. The bill arrived, for $100. The owner asked for a breakdown. The tech sent another invoice, indicating a $1 charge for whacking the machine, and $99 for knowing where to whack it. Send questions along with name and town to Motormouth, Rides, Chicago Tribune, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Fourth Floor, Chicago, IL 60611 or [email protected]. Copyright © 2017, Chicago Tribune Source: http://www.chicagotribune.com/classified/automotive/sc-auto-motormouth-1019-story.html

@SSPParts please only post once the same topic. I have removed your other two topics that were identical to this one. This one is placed well in the Used Auto Parts Forum. Thanks.

ATLANTA – Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) announced that it has acquired Monroe Motor Products, a regional automotive parts distributor. Founded in 1917, Rochester, N.Y.-based Monroe Motor Products has 17 stores and a large hub location. Monroe will consolidate into GPC’s U.S. Automotive operations and is expected to generate approximate annual revenues of $25 million. “This strategic acquisition expands our automotive store footprint and fills a significant void for us in the greater Rochester marketplace,” said Paul Donahue, GPC president and CEO. “We are pleased to welcome the Monroe team to the U.S. Automotive Parts and GPC family and look forward to working with them to expand our market share in the Rochester trading area.” Source: http://www.counterman.com/genuine-parts-co-acquires-monroe-motor-products/

Shares of car parts retailer Genuine Parts Co. GPC, -8.50% fell about 3% in premarket trade Thursday, after third-quarter profit fell short of estimates and the company lowered profit guidance for the full year. The Atlanta-based company said it had net income of $158.4 million, or $1.08 a share, in the quarter, down from $185.3 million, or $1.24 a share, in the year-earlier period. Adjusted per-share earnings came to $1.16, below the FactSet consensus of $1.28. Sales rose to $4.1 billion from $3.9 billion, matching the FactSet consensus. "While we are disappointed with this quarter's results, we are excited about the opportunities ahead and we move forward with a deep sense of urgency as we focus on maximizing shareholder value and positioning the Company for long-term success," Chief Executive Paul Donahue said in a statement. The company raised its full-year sales growth forecast to 4% to 4.5% from a prior 3% to 4%, reflecting revenue to be added through acquisitions. But it lowered its profit outlook to $4.55 to $4.60 a share from a prior $4.70 to $4.75. Shares had gained 2.6% in 2017 through Wednesday, while the S&P 500 SPX, +0.03% has gained 14.4%. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/genuine-parts-earnings-fall-short-in-disappointing-quarter-2017-10-19

One of our favorite websites to search and find used auto parts for years has been http://car-part.com/ They have a great lookup to help you find local auto wreckers with the part you need and often list the price.

Philips Unveils Ultinon LED, A New And Advanced Generation Of Automotive Lighting, Company Says Lumileds, a global lighting solutions company and the exclusive supplier of Philips-branded automotive lighting products, said it has introduced a new and advanced generation of automotive LED lighting for a wide range of interior and exterior vehicle applications. Philips Ultinon LED lights deliver brilliant, high-tech lighting in a variety of colors so that drivers can easily see and be seen, according to the company. Available in cool blue, intense red, intense amber, and 6000K bright white, the advanced Philips Ultinon LEDs provide excellent light distribution with a wide angle and proper light diffusion. They are designed as direct replacements for conventional bulbs in stop lights, turn-signal lights, backup lights, taillights, position lights, hazard lights, trunk lights, glove-compartment lights and interior floor lights. To find out more, visit www.philips.com/automotive or call (800) 257-6054.

Below are some videos that show how automotive oil, cabin, and air filters are made.

Groupon has a CAN OBD-II Car Scanner Tool deal for $13.99, limited time. https://www.groupon.com/deals/gg-can-obd-ii-car-scanner-diagnostic-tool

The AAPEX show is rapidly approaching, anyone going?

O'reilly Auto Parts is running a promotion to get $30 off $150+ by using code FALL30, on online ship to home orders through 9/24/2017. This is basically 20% off like Advance Auto Parts and AutoZone are running. AutoZone has it on $100 or more and Advance has no minimum, which is the best deal.

AutoZone is offering free shipping on orders over $100 and if you use code FALL20, you can get 20% off your order through September 23rd! $20 OFF FOR ONLINE SHIP-TO-HOME ORDERS OF $100 OR MORE.*

Advance Auto Parts has added free shipping to it's offering, most likely to combat Autozone who is offering free shipping on $100 or more. This is a better deal at the no minimum purchase amount! Until September 24th, use code J74 during checkout to receive 20% off.

Meet MAXX - the tool leading the industry in providing a safe and effective solution to adding extra lengths to wrenches, ratchets, and breaker bars. MAXIMUM POWER FOR WRENCHES Available on Amazon

Advance Auto Parts is ramping up product availability in key markets across the country with its Advance Professional Availability Challenge. The new challenge gives shop owners and professional customers in the Atlanta, D.C. (including select areas of Maryland and Virginia) and Tampa Bay markets an extra incentive to partner with Advance Professional for their parts needs. Advance will award one grand prize per market a Richard Rawlings experience that includes airfare, hotel accommodations, a meet and greet with Richard Rawlings at Gas Monkey Garage in Dallas, a welcome dinner, spending money and more. Professional customers can earn multiple entries into the Advance Professional Availability Challenge sweepstakes for their purchases and by providing feedback through customer surveys. “The most important benefit we can provide to shop owners and professional installers is the right part at the right time,” said Bob Cushing, executive vice president, professional, at Advance. “Our commitment to offering superior availability across the country and our excitement in launching the Advance Professional Availability Challenge are a testament to how we are transforming the ways we serve our professional customers. We are building a better delivery engine.” Professional customers will also receive a sweepstakes entry if they request a part and Advance does not have the part available in their market. For full sweepstakes rules and eligibility, click here. Source: http://www.tirereview.com/advance-auto-parts-launches-availability-challenge/ Visit Advance Auto Parts

AutoZone 4th Quarter Same Store Sales Increase 1.0%; 4th Quarter EPS Increases 6.8% to $15.27; Fiscal 2017 Sales of $10.9 Billion; Fiscal 2017 EPS Increases 8.3% to $44.07 MEMPHIS, Tenn., Sept. 19, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:AZO) today reported net sales of $3.5 billion for its fourth quarter (16 weeks) ended August 26, 2017, an increase of 3.3% from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016 (16 weeks). Domestic same store sales, or sales for stores open at least one year, increased 1.0% for the quarter. Net income for the quarter increased 1.7% over the same period last year to $433.9 million, while diluted earnings per share increased 6.8% to $15.27 per share from $14.30 per share in the year-ago quarter. As previously reported, the Company adopted a new accounting standard on August 28, 2016, related to stock option exercises. Excluding the $0.09 net benefit for the quarter from the adoption of this new standard, adjusted EPS increased by 6.1% to $15.18 per share. For the quarter, gross profit, as a percentage of sales, was 52.8% (-2 bps versus the same period last year). The slight decline in gross margin was attributable to higher supply chain costs (-16 bps) associated with current year inventory initiatives, partially offset by higher merchandise margins. Operating expenses, as a percentage of sales, were 32.6% (versus 32.1% the same period last year). The increase in operating expenses, as a percentage of sales, was primarily due to deleverage on occupancy costs (-24 bps) and domestic store payroll driven by higher wage pressure. For the fiscal year ended August 26, 2017, sales were $10.9 billion, an increase of 2.4% from the prior year, while domestic same store sales were up 0.5% for the year. Operating profit increased 1.0% on an operating margin of 19.1%. For fiscal 2017, net income increased 3.2% to $1.3 billion, while diluted earnings per share for the year increased 8.3% to $44.07 from $40.70. Excluding the $1.03 net benefit for the year from the adoption of this new standard, adjusted EPS increased by 5.7%. Return on invested capital finished the year at 29.9%, while full year cash flow before share repurchases and changes in debt was $1.018 billion. Under its share repurchase program, AutoZone repurchased 366 thousand shares of its common stock for $227 million during the fourth quarter, at an average price of $622 per share. For the fiscal year, the Company repurchased 1.5 million shares of its common stock for $1.07 billion, at an average price of $717 per share. At year end, the Company had $824 million remaining under its current share repurchase authorization. The Company’s inventory increased 6.9% over the same period last year, driven by new stores and increased product placement. Inventory per location at the end of the year was $644 thousandversus $625 thousand last year and $653 thousand last quarter. Net inventory, defined as merchandise inventories less accounts payable, on a per location basis, was a negative $48 thousand at the end of the year versus negative $80 thousand last year and negative $47 thousandlast quarter. “I would like to thank our entire organization for their dedication and passion to provide our customers with the service and trustworthy advice they need to maintain and enhance their vehicles. For the fourth quarter, our same store sales rebounded modestly from the previous two quarters. Our 1.0% same store sales were still moderately below our recent historical experience and we attribute this shortfall primarily to the continuing headwinds resulting from two consecutive mild winters. We believe we are well positioned to grow sales further in 2018. For the year, we reached many milestones which included generating a record $10.9 billion in sales, opening 215 AutoZone stores across the Americas and opening two new distribution centers. Additionally, we continued to fine-tune our inventory availability initiatives, including our multi-deliveries per week to stores and we expanded the number of mega hub locations. We expect to continue with these initiatives in 2018 while opening the previously announced Florida distribution center by the middle of the fiscal year. In order to continue to meet our customers’ needs across all selling channels, we will continue to prudently invest capital in our product availability initiatives across our businesses. While investing to grow, we will remain committed to our disciplined approach to increasing operating earnings and utilizing our capital effectively,” said Bill Rhodes, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. During the quarter ended August 26, 2017, AutoZone opened 84 new stores and relocated one store in the U.S., opened 25 new stores in Mexico, and five in Brazil. As of August 26, 2017, the Company had 5,465 stores in 50 states in the U.S., the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, 524 stores in Mexico, 26 IMC branches, and 14 stores in Brazil for a total count of 6,029. AutoZone is the leading retailer and a leading distributor of automotive replacement parts and accessories in the United States. Each AutoZone store carries an extensive product line for cars, sport utility vehicles, vans and light trucks, including new and remanufactured automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories, and non-automotive products. Many stores also have a commercial sales program that provides commercial credit and prompt delivery of parts and other products to local, regional and national repair garages, dealers, service stations, and public sector accounts. IMC branches carry an extensive line of original equipment quality import replacement parts. AutoZone also sells the ALLDATA brand diagnostic and repair software through www.alldata.com. Additionally, we sell automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories, and non-automotive products through www.autozone.com, and accessories, performance and replacement parts through www.autoanything.com, and our commercial customers can make purchases through www.autozonepro.com and www.imcparts.net. AutoZone does not derive revenue from automotive repair or installation.

South Korean firm LG Electronics Inc. said Monday that it would showcase its advanced auto-parts related technology at a motor show to be held in Germany this week.LG Electronics said it would show key auto parts to global automakers during the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show to be held from Sept. 14 to 17.Since its first participation in the 2014 Beijing Motor Show, LG Electronics has been rolling out crucial auto parts at international motor shows.LG Electronics plans to showcase its AV navigation system, auto infotainment gadget, battery heater and others. (Yonhap) Last month, LG Electronics said it will build a factory for the production of electric-vehicle parts in the United States. The factory is intended to produce battery packs for electric cars and is aimed to gradually expand the scope of its operations to other key parts.Other LG affiliates, such as LG Chem Ltd. and LG Display Co., produce car batteries and automotive displays, respectively. LG Hausys Ltd. and LG Innotek Co. also each supply materials and camera modules for automobiles.LG Electronics has been making efforts to improve the profitability of its vehicle component business, although the sector's overall performance has not met expectations so far. The division posted an operating loss of 14.5 billion won ($12.7 million) in the January-March period. (Yonhap) Source: http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20170911000578