APF

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

As a manufacturer of CV axles for ATVs, UTVs and side-by-sides, TrakMotive has announced the release of 42 new part numbers covering 486 fitment applications for 205 models from Arctic Cat, Can-Am, Kymco, Polaris and Yamaha. Available in both OE replacement and heavy-duty versions, these axles are now in stock and ready to ship. TrakMotive says it is committed to offering the largest selection of CV axles in the industry while bringing new applications to the market. TrakMotive CV Axles for ATVs, UTVs and side-by-sides exceed OEM quality in fit, form and function, come fully assembled with all necessary hardware included for easy installation with no modifications required and include a one-year limited warranty, according to the company. TrakMotive CV Axles are available from authorized TrakMotive dealers and distributors. To contact TrakMotive, visit trakmotive.com or call 800-567-1608.

Napa is running a sale online for Mobil 1 Full Synthetic at $5.99 /QT. https://www.napaonline.com/en/search/?text=Mobil1FullSynMotorOil&isPromo=1&isProduct=true&icid=q3_sep2017_$5.99-mobil-1-full-synthetic

20% OFF THROUGH SEPTEMBER 10. ENTER CODE J72 IN CART

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Aug. 30, 2017—eBay announced the availability of Online Repair Manuals for over 80 percent of vehicles on the road. The manuals are available as an add-on purchase whenever a customer buys a part or accessory on eBay Motors, according to eSeller Cafe. "With Online Repair Manuals, we are taking the shopping experience one step further for our buyers by providing them with the parts and resources—including expert instructions—that can help shoppers make their rides an extension of their unique individuality and meet their needs," said Todd Madeiros, vice president of eBay Motors Parts & Accessories. Once purchased, Online Repair Manuals are accessible via an access code sent by email. eBay’s Online Repair Manual program is a time limited subscription service. Buyers will have the choice to purchase access to them for 14 days, 90 days, or a full year. The addition of Online Repair Manuals follows a continuing development of vehicle fitment data, item specifics for the parts and accessories categories, and expansion for a new tire installation service. Today, eBay Motors Parts & Accessories is one of the largest automotive marketplaces with some of the widest selection of parts and accessories. Unlike traditional auto parts stores, eBay Motors Parts & Accessories offers more than just new parts. The category features many used, refurbished, performance, and rare spare parts offered by professional sellers and individual car enthusiasts. eBay did not provide pricing information on the new Online Repair Manuals. Source: https://www.ratchetandwrench.com/articles/5150-ebay-motors-adds-online-repair-manuals-for-parts-accessories

Down for maintenance it looks like...

According to Twitter, Advance Auto Parts has launched a new website that enhances the usability and mobile responsiveness of their shopping experience. Check out the mobile version link and screenshots below https://m.advanceautoparts.com/

Nearly four decades ago, AutoZone opened its first store. This Friday, it will celebrate another milestone: the debut of store No. 6,000. Auto parts giant AutoZone Inc., founded in 1979 as Auto Shack by J.R. “Pitt” Hyde III, will debut its 6,000 store at 2761 Kirby Road, Friday. Aug. 26 in the company’s hometown — Memphis. Auto parts giant AutoZone Inc., founded in 1979 as Auto Shack by J.R. “Pitt” Hyde III, will debut its 6,000 store at 2761 Kirby Road, Friday. Aug. 26 in the company’s hometown — Memphis. “Obviously, our home is Memphis, but that relationship exists in 50 states,” said Tom Newbern, executive vice president of store operations and commercial for AutoZone. “We invest in the local community wherever we are ... but most of our team here at the store support center are from Memphis. We all consider ourselves Memphians, and we just appreciate the support that the community has given us.” Newbern joined AutoZone 32 years ago as a part-time employee at store No. 110, located at the corner of Hickory Hill Road and Winchester Road. Newbern described his path from part-time retailer to EVP of store operations as a three-decade evolution. Most of the company’s leadership, especially on the operations side, he said, has a store background. “Staying close to the customer has always been very important to AutoZone,” Newbern said. “Having that experience with direct customer interaction is part of our culture. In fact, it is required — even if you are coming from somewhere outside of Memphis or outside of AutoZone — that you spend time working in the store, regardless of whether you are coming in as a lawyer or an accountant or project manager. It doesn’t matter — you are required to work in the store.” The company averages about 200 new brick-and-mortar stores per year, 150 of which are in the U.S. with the remaining in Puerto Rico, Mexico and Brazil. Newbern said they are always looking for additional opportunities, not only in the U.S. but around the globe. “The difference in us and some of the international players is we’re looking for countries where our model — the same model we have successfully executed in the U.S. — works and appeals to the population there,” Newbern said. “So, starting with a very good, heavy DIY business because that is our expertise.” But this weekend, it's Memphis where the company will celebrate its historic milestone with a two-day, public celebration. Festivities start Aug. 25 at 11 a.m. at the new Kirby Road location with a ribbon cutting by some of AutoZone’s executive leadership, music from the Grizzline and an appearance by the Memphis Redbirds mascot, Rockey. NASCAR driver Alex Bowman will also be in attendance with KIX 106. The party continues Saturday, Aug. 26, at the AutoZone store at 5945 Winchester Road from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. AutoZone will provide giveaways to attendees both days, and a Mid-South Food Bank donation drive will also be occurring. “We have been on a very steady glide path with regards to growth for years and years, and very consistent growth … but the importance of [the 6,000 store] being in Memphis really matters to us,” Newbern said. “That relationship between us and the community of Memphis, the leadership of the City of Memphis, has been very important to AutoZone starting with [founder] Pitt Hyde in our decision 20 years ago to build our store support center Downtown. And, if you were Downtown 20 years ago, we were the only ones here. Again, just another example of making sure the community realizes that we appreciate it.” Source: https://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/news/2017/08/22/autozone-to-celebrate-retail-milestone.html

AC Delco parts catalog is located at this link: http://parts-catalog.acdelco.com/catalog/catalog_search.php Their catalog will give you only AC Delco part numbers which you can then search for at retailers and online suppliers. Make sure you spot check AMAZON AC Delco Parts as there are many sellers that use the marketplace to sell AC Delco auto parts.

The ArcticPRO ACX1180C refrigerant handling system from MAHLE Service Solutions is the premier SAE-certified unit to service heavy-duty vehicles that use R-134a refrigerant. The ArcticPRO ACX1180C is the OEM heavy-duty commercial option from MAHLE Service Solutions’ ACX1180 series. Easy to service and maintain, MAHLE says the ACX1180C is designed to increase technician productivity due to its fully-automatic program to recover, vacuum, leak test and charge without command for ease of operation. The ACX1180C also features an integrated test function that allows the user to capture a before-and-after service snapshot to ensure proper A/C system service functionality. High-pressure leak detection and liquid refrigerant flushing are standard high-performance features essential for heavy-duty service, according to MAHLE. In addition to recovering more than 95 percent of heavy-duty A/C system refrigerant, the ACX1180C features a high capacity 50-lb internal DOT cylinder to service larger commercial vehicles (as compared to the typical 30-lb cylinder in automotive version recovery machines). The unit also includes a 5 CFM vacuum pump, an integrated printer, an ambient humidity sensor, three temperature sensors, four pressure sensors, a vacuum micron sensor providing greater system diagnostic capabilities, a factory-installed heater belt and is hybrid certified. MAHLE Service Solutions is currently offering a promotion that includes a free unit cover for customers who purchase an ACX1180C machine between Aug. 7 and Sept. 30. The ACX1180C meets stringent certification requirements, including SAE J2788, SAE J2099 and UL 1963, and is backed by a two-year parts and labor warranty. ArcticPRO ACX1180C Refrigerant Handling System Part Number: 460 80390 00 FEATURES R134a. Fully recover and recharge in any climatic condition. Vacuum Leak Test. Monitors level after evacuation, informs of possible leak. Automatic Air Purge. Eliminates contaminated air without monitoring gauges or opening valves. Shock-Mounted Load Cells. Ensures stable calibration and charge accuracy.. Automatic Oil Drain. Display reminds you to empty the graduated container and shows the amount of oil to replace. Ergonomic. Designed with unobstructed accessibility for easy maintenance. Hybrid Function. Capable of servicing high voltage electric compressor A/C systems. 20' Cable Temp Probes. Monitor performance of the A/C unit through A/C vents. 50 Lb Internal Tank. Large enough for HD service. Factory-Installed Heater Belt. Heats cylinder to raise refrigerant pressure enabling you to charge during any climatic condition. On-Board Integrated Thermal Printer. Print to USB (for standard paper) allows user to store "before and after" service information by vehicle and print information for the customer. OPTIONAL FEATURES ECO Lock Quick Couplers. Engineered to prevent gas dispersion into the environment. Database. Reliable and high-quality vehicle database included for latest A/C service information. Integrated Identifier. Refrigerant identifier to avoid costly cross contamination. Sample filter clearly visible for inspection. Automatic Dye Injection. Detects leaks without additional UV dye handling. Integrated Hose Flushing. Eliminates need for additional or loose adapters. Available on Amazon for $6,568.34 For more information about MAHLE Aftermarket Service Solutions, visit servicesolutions.mahle.com.

Source: http://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/2017/08/22/lg-to-open-michigan-plant-to-make-electric-car-parts.html LG Electronics said Tuesday it will spend $25 million to open a U.S. plant for manufacturing electric vehicle components. The 250,000-square-foot building is located in Hazel Park, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. When it opens next year, the plant will create at least 292 jobs in Hazel Park and an expanded research and development center in nearby Troy. The Michigan government is providing a four-year, $2.9 million capital grant for the project. “LG’s initiative to develop and produce world-class EV components in the United States represents a key pillar of our strategy to be the best technology partner to U.S. automakers,” said Ken Chang, head of the LG Vehicle Components North American Business Center. LG said vehicle components are the company’s fastest-growing business. Auto-related revenue jumped 43% year-over-year to $1.5 billion during the first half of 2017, driven by LG’s supplier agreement with General Motors (GM) for the new Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicle.