Automotive Repair News Today – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode, Braxton Critcher covers the latest trends and updates in the automotive repair industry. Braxton discusses the SEMA market research revealing that Americans are holding onto their cars longer than ever. He also highlights the rise of Gen Z in the trades industry, with Wyotech reporting an 85% graduation rate and a notable increase in job placements. Additionally, Braxton talks about the decline in new vehicle sales since Covid-19, leading dealerships to shift focus towards used vehicles and boosting their service bay business.

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In this episode, Braxton Critcher is joined by Dwayne Myers to discuss the importance of the Repair Act in the automotive industry. Dwayne highlights how advancements in automotive technology could potentially lock out independent repair shops, stressing the need for security measures that allow fair access to repair data. Braxton and Dwayne delve into the consumer implications, including the potential lack of repair options and increased costs if the Repair Act is not passed.

00:00 Car advancements: Enhanced security restricts consumer access.
05:54 Manufacturers sell collected data; we want repair data.
08:52 Inflation affects prices; manufacturer network access control.
12:09 Public supports, but compliance and rulings vary.
13:18 Seeking balance in necessary legislation oversight.
17:34 Actionable systems implementation: "Couple years" to establish precedent.
20:04 Your input makes a significant difference.

Write your congressperson about the Repair Act!

This podcast is all about good news in the auto repair industry! Today, Frank Leutz shares about his shop's commitment to community service, detailing their collaboration with the Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center to provide free auto repairs to families in need once a quarter. He also emphasizes the culture of giving back among his technicians, who are inspired to leverage their skills for the benefit of others. Furthermore, Frank discusses future community initiatives, including an art gallery for local artists and a jazz festival, all aimed at fostering local connections and support.

03:59 Small business grows through community and mistakes.
08:23 The Car had a safety issue, fixed it, satisfied. Technicians give back with their skill set.
10:13 Influencing positive change through youth skill-building.
12:44 Create a fulfilling lifestyle by sharing skills.
15:59 Frank is a community influencer, inspiring positivity.

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Braxton talks about Midas’ new ad campaign promoting no "BS" in their shops. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers are working towards releasing a white paper to cover what the industry needs to help support shops and ADAS. Additionally, you'll hear about Colorado's new lemon laws, aiming to provide stronger protections for consumers buying defective vehicles. 

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The Auto Care Association (ACA) CEO Bill Hanvey urges the industry to push Congress to advance the stalled Repair Act, and Braxton emphasizes the importance of using the provided link to contact representatives. Additionally, CarShield reaches a $10 million settlement with the Federal Trade Commission over misleading advertising allegations, prompting the company to provide clearer information on covered repairs. Finally, Jay Kuykendall, an automotive instructor from Portland Community College, is named the 2024 Mitchell 1 Educator of the Year for his exceptional contributions to automotive education.

Help the Repair Act get moving again!

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In this episode, Braxton Critcher welcomes Chris Jones, the new Editorial Director at Endeavor Business Media, to discuss the latest in automotive repair news. Chris shares his journey within the industry, highlighting his recent promotion and the vision for Endeavor's various automotive brands. He touches on the rapid technological advancements in the industry and their impact on shop processes and customer service. Lastly, Chris dives into the evolving perception of automotive repair, noting the importance of independent repair shops in gaining consumer trust. 

00:00 New role as editorial director in auto repair.
04:14 Exciting advancements in auto industry technology and education.
07:58 Perception of automotive repair industry is evolving.
12:22 Transition to EVs should be natural, and gradual.
13:35 Automakers resist push for 2035 vehicle deadline.
18:46 Managing work and evolving with changing preferences.
21:13 Good shops keep customers and technicians happy.
25:02 Excited about the future of the auto industry. Share thoughts.
25:57 Thanks for following, liking, and subscribing!

In this episode, Braxton Critcher gives the need-to-know info about CarShield, a company known for offering vehicle service contracts. Braxton highlights a critical quote from Samuel Levine, director of the Federal Trade Commission Bureau of Consumer Protection, emphasizing the deceptive practices that left many consumers with financial headaches. He also explores consumer complaints about false promises, such as rental cars and the ability to choose any repair shop, which often went unfulfilled. 

00:00 Carshield experiences and feedback from repair shop users.
04:28 FTC investigates Carshield over false advertising claims.
08:47 Carshield fined $10 million, refunds for false advertising.
11:22 Ensure reputable providers fulfill promises - Carshield advice.

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Braxton Critcher covers several crucial updates in the automotive repair industry in this episode. He discusses new legislation in Michigan targeting car theft, highlighting stricter penalties for owning burglary tools. Braxton also mentions the impressive fundraising efforts of the Collision Repair Education Foundation, which raised over $110,000 to support collision repair programs nationwide. Lastly, he sheds light on the growing concerns over vehicle data privacy as U.S. Senators urge the FTC to investigate automakers' data collection and sharing practices.

Thanks to our sponsor AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching! Schedule your free strategy session here: autofixautoshopcoaching.com

Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HERE

If your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!

In this episode, Braxton Critcher and Chris Messer from Endeavor Business Media share an overview of the upcoming Ratchet Wrench Management Conference. Chris emphasizes the event's unique peer-to-peer format and new attractions like the VEHLO Victory Lap with RC cars. Additionally, he discusses the importance of staying updated on industry developments, particularly in the realm of EV, to ensure the success of repair shops.

00:00 New speakers, different format, showcase, entertainment.
05:49 Mike Jones inspires trade perception change. Opportunity!
07:04 Trade industries offer lucrative growth opportunities.
10:29 Attend conferences and prioritize key takeaways for business.
14:37 Stay informed, stay updated to succeed.

Go to this year's conference! Register HERE
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In this episode, Braxton highlights a recent shift in GM's electric vehicle production strategy, an innovative diagnostic tool launched by Repairfy and NAPA, and Auto Ops' new feature aimed at enhancing customer service for repair shops. Additionally, Chris Jones shares his optimistic outlook for the industry's future based on his interactions with passionate students and instructors.

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