Redding: Outlook for shop owners in the 116th Congress
The recent elections moving democrats to control the U.S. House of Representatives could lead to policy change for the automotive repair industry in the new 116th Congress.
Features
Schnepper: ASA today & tomorrow
Like many of us, I’ve always felt the New Year ushers in a time of reflection on where we are and where we’re going. Some make resolutions, while others see the change in the calendar as a time for a fresh start. Both of these are true here at ASA.
Raising rates without anyone noticing?
Raise your rates! I see this comment a lot in discussion groups. Here's how to do it without anyone noticing.
Technology is killing the auto mechanic... Or is it?
Telematics and cyber technological advancements are popular subjects at any trade-related event nowadays.
Chesney: The future of automotive education
Lately I’ve been focused on the topic of automotive education to the extent that this column is beginning to trend toward that topic every issue.
Noriega: New system leads to more efficient, profitable shop
In the years since founding AutoWorks of Tampa, I’ve seen my fair share of ups and downs. Initially I started the business out of the side of my house, working on neighbor’s cars, my friend’s cars, and the cars of other, word-of-mouth customers.
Rudloff: Continuing education without breaking the bank
Question: I run a one-man shop in a very rural area. I was a good tech before becoming self-employed, but fear I’m losing the edge on new technical/service data. Do you have any suggestions for continuing education that I can…
'You better put that thing back together before your father gets home!'
In 1964 America, the threat of father finding out you did something bad had all the weight of a nuclear explosion along with the extended fallout.
Recruiting, hiring, development & retention of quality employees
The competition for quality technicians is very keen right now, and sadly the numbers entering the automotive service profession, especially in the role of technician, seems sadly slim.
ASA appoints well-recognized industry leader to head organization
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS – ASA has a new leader. Ray Fisher, executive director of ASA’s Michigan affiliate, has been selected to head the Automotive Service Association as its executive director/president, beginning Jan. 2, 2019.…
Larson: Networking a key to success
At one of the darkest times of my life, after just losing my business partner, who was also my beloved husband and best friend, I chose to take my first solo trip to an industry convention. …
For the Love of Hybrids & SUVs
EDITOR’S NOTE: Two technicians – Isaac Rodell and Johnathan Dickerman – were interviewed for this article. We appreciate their input. Time has proven that American drivers love SUVs. But do technicians who have to fix them feel the same way?…
AutoInc. 'Going Fully Digital' in 2019
Sixty-seven years ago, ASA printed the first issue of what is now AutoInc. magazine. Beginning in 2019, the magazine will no longer have a print edition. Instead, the magazine – and the same outstanding content – will be offered on…
Schnepper: The importance of quality time
As a business owner and chairman of ASA, I often find myself wishing for more time. It’s not an unusual situation, and one that most of you reading this I’m sure have experienced. Growing a business while raising a family…
Michigan family builds strong business by creating lasting relationships
Experience isn’t a problem at Gentile’s Collision in Shelby Township, Mich. “We are four generations strong,” said Mark Gentile Jr., whose family has owned the business for nearly eight decades. “We have three technicians who have been with us more…
Redding: U.S. EPA highlights refrigerant regulations
During the 1970s, concern about the impact of ozone depleting substances reached a feverish pitch. Although there was much interest in those substances that likely depleted the ozone, the use of the chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-12, used at the time in motor…
Fuel Cells, Body Shops & the Future
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV) are here, not a lot of them, but they have arrived. In 1999 there were 23 hybrids sold in the USA. Now, we have millions. FCEVs are sold or leased mostly in California, but if…
Ramping Up Refinish
No matter which business performance number you’re looking to improve – productivity, cycle time or profitability – all roads lead through your paint department.
