Follow Us
Subscribe
TRENDING

Author: admin

  • Goodyear opens new Detroit location during Woodward Dream Cruise

    Goodyear opens new Detroit location during Woodward Dream Cruise

    Just in time for the 2026 Woodward Dream Cruise, Goodyear is opening its Goodyear Motor City Garage, its first retail concept store in Detroit.

    The Goodyear Motor City Garage will be open to the public during Dream Cruise weekend on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 8 a.m. Located at 3075 East Grand Blvd. in Detroit, this special Goodyear Auto Service Center showcases the company’s products, technology and heritage and gives a look at the vision for the future of vehicle care.

    “Some of the best vehicles in the world have been laying down Goodyear rubber in Detroit since Henry Ford put them on his 999 race car in 1901. From track to tarmac to trail, Goodyear makes tires worth bragging about, and we’ll be doing just that during the Woodward Dream Cruise,” said Goodyear CEO Mark Stewart. “Whether you’re an enthusiast looking for ultra-high performance or just need help picking the best tires to get your SUV through the school pick-up line, we’re looking to show you how easy Goodyear can make vehicle care. Detroit’s car culture makes it the perfect place to showcase our new retail concept alongside our Mobile Garage service that can install tires and service your vehicle right in your driveway.”

    Inspired by destination concepts such as a Starbucks Reserve Roastery or a Nike House of Innovation, the Goodyear Motor City Garage is more than a traditional tire and service location. The space is designed as a gathering spot where enthusiasts can connect with car culture, explore the latest tire technology and engage with Goodyear in a new way.

    Services the Goodyear Motor City Garage will provice

    • Tire sales and installation
    • Oil changes
    • Alignments
    • Brake service
    • Battery replacement
    • Free vehicle inspections
    • Preventive maintenance

    As a tribute to the city that helped shape American car culture, the Goodyear Motor City Garage will showcase a custom, one-of-a-kind Detroit-themed Eagle racing tire. This tire is laser-carved with a love letter to Detroit that celebrates the city’s automotive heritage and Goodyear’s longstanding connection to the Motor City and its auto enthusiasts. The letter concludes with “We might be from Akron, but we grew up here. Still. Always. Forever.”

    At the Goodyear Motor City Garage during Woodward Dream Cruise weekend, Goodyear will display the famous 1973 Ford Mustang convertible from the opening sequence of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” courtesy of the Ford Motor Company Heritage Collection.

    Also on display from the General Motors Heritage Center and Archive is the 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am W72 “Bandit.” This black-and-gold special edition was inspired by the movie, “Smokey and the Bandit,” starring Sally Field and Burt Reynolds. This Trans Am originally was outfitted with Goodyear GR70/15 GM Custom Tread tires.

    Additional vehicle displays and featured automotive attractions will be announced closer to the event

  • Brake Safety Week is Aug. 23-29. Will trucks you work on be ready?

    Brake Safety Week is Aug. 23-29. Will trucks you work on be ready?

    You have about three weeks to get the brake systems of commercial vehicles you work on up to snuff ahead of a massive inspection effort.

    The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has designated Aug. 23-29 as this year’s Brake Safety Week, a seven-day focused inspection and enforcement initiative designed to improve safety by ensuring commercial motor vehicles on our roadways are operating with properly maintained and functioning braking systems.

    Throughout that week, inspectors in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will conduct routine commercial motor vehicle inspections with a focus on brake systems and components. Vehicles with brake-related out-of-service violations, or any other out-of-service violations, will be removed from roadways until those violations are corrected.

    In addition, inspectors will focus on drums and rotors, the emphasis for this year’s brake-safety initiative. Brake drum and rotor issues may affect a vehicle’s brake efficiency. Broken pieces of drums and rotors may become dislodged from the vehicle en route and damage other vehicles or result in injuries or fatalities to the motoring public.

    Brake Safety Week aims to improve commercial motor vehicle brake safety throughout North America, according to the CVSA.The goal is to eliminate roadway crashes by conducting roadside inspections and educating drivers, mechanics, large- and small-fleet motor carriers, owner-operators, and others on the importance of proper brake inspection, maintenance and operation.

  • Stemco unveils ReSpec, new line of thread repair tools

    Stemco unveils ReSpec, new line of thread repair tools

     STEMCO, an Enpro company and manufacturer of heavy-duty components and solutions for commercial vehicles, has launched ReSpec, a new line of patented thread repair tools designed to help fleets and technicians restore damaged threads instead of replacing components.
     
    “ReSpec was developed to solve a common challenge faced by technicians every day: damaged threads that often force the replacement of otherwise serviceable components,” said Michelle Madden, product manager at STEMCO. “By restoring threads quickly and reliably, ReSpec helps fleets reduce downtime, lower maintenance costs, and maximize the value of existing equipment.”

    Unlike traditional repair methods that remove material or alter the original thread structure, ReSpec restores threads through a rolling process that reshapes the existing material without weakening it.
     
    Highlighting the new lineup is the revolutionary RST-70I, the industry’s solution for repairing internal threads on steering knuckle bores, a challenging application that has historically lacked effective repair options.
     
    ReSpec is compatible with metric, imperial, coarse and fine thread types, left-hand and right-hand threads, with standard tool configurations covering diameters from 3 mm to 120 mm.

    Available configurations include:
     
    Series XR: External Repair

    • RST-60X: 10–60 mm (3/8 in.–2 3/8 in.)
    • RST-120X: 50–120 mm (2 in.–4 3/4 in.)
    • RSSR 22-1.5X: 22 mm

    Series IR: Internal Repair

    • RST-70I: approximately 51–70 mm (2 in.–2 3/4 in.

    Independent testing conducted by the Material Testing Institute Hanover (MPA) — an independent German materials testing, inspection, and certification organization — demonstrated that ReSpec-repaired threads can withstand the same static and dynamic loads as new, undamaged threads. The rolling repair process also hardens the thread surface, increasing resistance to future wear while maintaining the integrity of the original component.

    The MPA performs testing and certification for construction materials, mechanical products, pipelines, pressure equipment, abrasives, and other industrial products. It also serves as a notified body under European construction product regulations.
     
    For applications outside the standard product range, STEMCO offers custom-engineered ReSpec solutions for specialized thread diameters, pitches and component geometries.

    ReSpec Thread Repair Tools are available for order now, with shipments beginning in mid-August 2026. For more information, contact your STEMCO representative or visit the STEMCO ReSpec product page.

  • Truck Centers expands vocational offering with Battle Motors partnership

    Truck Centers expands vocational offering with Battle Motors partnership

     Truck Centers, Inc. , a heavy-duty truck dealer network based in Troy, Illinois, announced a new partnership with Battle Motors, Inc., a manufacturer of purpose-built Class 7 and 8 vocational trucks. Through the partnership, TCI will offer Battle Motors’ diesel, compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric vehicles at its locations in Indiana, Illinois and Missouri.

    The addition of Battle Motors expands TCI’s vocational vehicle portfolio and provides customers with access to a broader range of powertrain options for demanding commercial applications. Battle Motors customers will also benefit from TCI’s, established Midwestern service network, experienced technicians and comprehensive parts and maintenance support.

    “Truck Centers has the regional reach, technical expertise and customer-first service infrastructure that fleet operators depend on,” said Jason Coleman, CRO at Battle Motors. “This partnership strengthens our ability to support customers throughout the Midwest—not only when they purchase a Battle Motors truck, but throughout the vehicle’s entire operating life. We are proud to welcome TCI to the Battle Motors dealer network.”

    TCI’s portfolio includes Freightliner and Western Star vehicles, as well as trucks and equipment featuring Cummins engines and Allison transmissions. The addition of Battle Motors will allow TCI to serve a broader customer base across a range of vocational industries and applications

     “This partnership is an opportunity for Truck Centers to expand our vocational product offerings to a broader customer base across various industries and applications, while providing Battle Motors with a seamless customer experience across multiple markets in the heart of the Midwest,” said Katie Hopkins, president and CEO for Truck Centers, Inc. 

  • TLG Peterbilt acquires 2 Fitzgerald locations in Virgina

    TLG Peterbilt acquires 2 Fitzgerald locations in Virgina

    The Larson Group acquired two Fitzgerald Peterbilt dealership locations in Glade Spring and Fancy Gap, Virginia., effective Aug. 3.

    Terms of the deal were not announced.

    The move marks TLG’s entry into Virginia and expands the company’s semi-truck sales, service and parts network to support fleets and owner-operators in the region.

    The two locations will operate as TLG Peterbilt – Glade Spring and TLG Peterbilt – Fancy Gap and bring TLG’s network to 36 locations across 12 states. 

    TLG said key acquisition highlights include:

    • Expansion into a new state: The acquisition marks TLG Peterbilt’s entry into Virginia and expands TLG’s presence in the Southeast
    • Increased network capacity: The two new dealerships strengthen TLG’s ability to better support fleets and owner-operators throughout the area.
    • Expanded footprint: The TLG network now operates in 12 states: Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi and Virginia

    “We’re proud to welcome the employees and customers of the Fitzgerald Peterbilt locations in Fancy Gap and Glade Spring to TLG,” said President and CEO Glenn Larson. “This expansion into Virginia strengthens our presence in the Southeast and allows us to better serve customers with the industry-leading service TLG is known for. We look forward to building on the relationships developed by the Fitzgerald team.”

    Explore the TLG Peterbilt dealership network

  • Amerit Fleet Solutions expands in Canada with Triple Diamond acquisition

    Amerit Fleet Solutions expands in Canada with Triple Diamond acquisition

    Amerit Fleet Solutions, a leading provider of fleet maintenance, repair and management services, recently announced the acquisition of Triple Diamond Truck and Trailer Repair, doubling down on the Canadian expansion it began earlier this year through the acquisition of Pro Reefer.

    The acquisition builds on Amerit’s continued investment in the Canadian market following its acquisition of Pro Reefer earlier this year. It also brings together two longtime sister companies, Pro Reefer and Triple Diamond, that have worked alongside one another for years. By uniting under one organization, Pro Reefer is expanding its service capabilities, strengthening support for commercial fleets across Canada, and creating new opportunities to deliver even greater value to customers.

    Based in Mississauga, Ontario, Triple Diamond Truck and Trailer Repair is an MTO-certified commercial truck and trailer maintenance and repair provider. Operating from a 24,000-square-foot, 16-bay facility, the company offers comprehensive maintenance and repair services performed by licensed technicians with expertise across major OEM manufacturers.

    “Triple Diamond Truck and Trailer Repair has officially joined the Pro Reefer family.” Said Thomas Vandermeer, CEO & President of Pro Reefer. “While this marks an important milestone for our organization, it also formalizes a relationship that has existed for years. As sister companies, we have always shared the same commitment to exceptional service, trusted partnerships, and doing the job right. Today we are proud to move forward together as one stronger organization.”

    “Pro Reefer has continued to demonstrate its market leadership, customer focus, and operational excellence, making it a best-in-class acquisition platform for the Canadian market on behalf of Amerit.”“ said Adam Lev, Vice President of Corporate Development at Amerit Fleet Solutions. “The acquisition of Triple Diamond builds on Amerit’s and Pro Reefer’s growth momentum and represents another important step in our long-term growth strategy.”

    Together, Pro Reefer and Triple Diamond are well positioned to build on their shared legacy while continuing to grow as part of Amerit. The combined organization will remain focused on delivering the dependable service, technical expertise, and customer support that have defined both companies foryears.

  • Straightaway acquires The Shop @ 160 near company’s headquarters

    Straightaway acquires The Shop @ 160 near company’s headquarters

    Straightaway, a leading independent automotive repair platform, recently announced the acquisition of The Shop @ 160, a full-service automotive repair shop located in Fort Mill, South Carolina, south of Charlotte.

    The acquisition marks Straightaway’s entry into the North and South Carolina market and, notably, its first shop in the greater Charlotte region, where the company is headquartered.

    For Straightaway, the milestone carries special significance. While the company has built a national footprint spanning the Northeast, Midwest, Mountain West, and Southeast, this acquisition plants the flag in its own backyard and establishes the foundation for a new regional network across the Carolinas, one of the fastest-growing corridors in the United States.

    “Opening our first shop in the Charlotte region is a moment we’ve been looking forward to since day one,” said John Teddy, CEO at Straightaway. “This is our home. Our team lives here, drives these roads, and cares deeply about this community. The Shop @ 160 is exactly the way we wanted to enter this market. Their team embodies the values we look for in every shop, and we couldn’t be more excited to build the Carolinas network.”

    Building this new region so close to headquarters gives Straightaway an added layer of proximity as the Carolinas network grows, and a unique opportunity to sharpen operational excellence across the entire platform. Straightaway said its leadership will be able to spend even more time in the field here, using the Carolinas as a proving ground to test new concepts in the company’s own backyard before rolling them out across its nationwide network.

    “We’re always closely involved with our shops, and having our newest region right in our own backyard just means even more of that,” said Cameron Chernikow, Chief Brand Officer. “We’re excited for the opportunity to learn as we expand here and share what we find with the rest of our network. “

    “This shop has always been about honest estimates, quality work, and taking care of the people who trust us with their vehicles,” said Arun Saluja, founder of The Shop @ 160. “Straightaway shares that same philosophy, and I’m proud to see what we’ve built here become part of a national organization with the resources to carry it forward for years to come.”

    With the Charlotte metro area ranking among the fastest-growing regions in the country, Straightaway plans to build out its newest regional network by partnering with established, wellrun local shops across North and South Carolina that share its commitment to customers, employees, and community.

  • ASE Instructors flock to Frisco, Texas for annual training conference

    ASE Instructors flock to Frisco, Texas for annual training conference

    The 16th annual ASE Instructor Training Conference, held recently in Frisco, Texas, is the nation’s largest instructor training event of its kind. The conference brings together automotive, medium/heavy truck and collision repair instructors from high schools, community colleges and trade schools across the country.

    “The ASE Instructor Training Conference is about investing in the people who prepare the next generation of industry professionals," said Dave Johnson, president and CEO of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). 

    “When instructors return to their classrooms with the latest technical knowledge, teaching resources and industry connections, students benefit by receiving the education and hands-on experience they need to graduate, ready to enter the workforce.”

    The three-day conference included more than 20 hours of technical update training designed to help educators stay current on the latest industry practices, emerging vehicle technologies and classroom instruction. Separate training tracks were offered for automotive, medium/heavy truck and collision repair instructors, helping educators meet the ASE Education Foundation accreditation requirements while gaining practical knowledge they can immediately apply in their programs.

    A conference highlight was the keynote presentation, “Filling the Farley Gap: Addressing the Technician Pipeline”, which examined the technician shortage following recent comments from Ford CEO Jim Farley, who described the issue as a significant challenge facing the industry. The panel discussion explored factors contributing to the shortage using research from IMR Inc.’s Perceptions of the Trades survey, the ATMC Training Benchmark Survey, ASE Connects Voice of the Technician survey, ASE Education Foundation’s student survey and other industry data.

    The conference also highlighted the vital role industry partners play in supporting technician education. Dozens of manufacturers, suppliers and industry organizations participated by providing technical training, product demonstrations and educational resources that exposed instructors to the latest equipment and technologies used in today’s repair facilities.

    “We are grateful for the outstanding support of our industry partners”, said Johnson. “Their investment of time, expertise and resources helps make opportunities like this possible and gives instructors access to new tools and technologies their students will encounter in the workforce. This commitment from the industry provides critical support beyond certification and testing activities, strengthening the connection between educators and employers. This collaboration is essential to building a stronger technician pipeline and ensuring the future workforce is ready for success.”

    The 2027 Instructor Training Conference is scheduled for July 19-22 in Phoenix, Arizona. Registration information will be announced in early 2027.

  • Several automakers issue recalls for a varity of problems

    Several automakers issue recalls for a varity of problems

    Four different automakers have issued recalls for a variety of mechanical issues.

    Ford Bronco

    Ford Motor Company is recalling 565,691 2021–2026 model year Bronco and Bronco Raptor SUVs because the engine compartment wiring harness may become damaged and short circuit.

    A short circuit in the engine compartment can create heat or a spark, increasing the risk of a fire.

    Dealers will install protective sheathing over the wiring, free of charge.

    Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed beginning Aug. 24.

    Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332; Ford’s number for this recall is 26S55. Vehicle Identification Numbers involved in the recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov.

    Ford

    Ford Motor Company has recalled 387,911 vehicles. Covered are model year 2020–2026 Ford Explorers and 2020–2027 Lincoln Aviators. 

    Ford said the switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, which can allow the seats to unlatch, tip, or slide unexpectedly. A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    Dealers will inspect the switch and replace its bezel as necessary, free of charge. This campaign expands Ford’s earlier recall 25V393.

    Interim letters explaining the safety risk were expected to be mailed July 27, with additional letters to follow once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. 

    Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332; Ford’s number for this recall is 26S52.

    Nissan

    Nissan North America is recalling 168,149 vehicles equipped with 22-inch wheels.

    Included in the recall are model year 2020–2026 Nissan Armadas, 2011–2013 Infiniti QX56s, and 2014–2027 Infiniti QX80s. 

    Nissan said the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) printed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded — a noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 110, “Tire Selection and Rims.”

    An overloaded vehicle can increase the risk of a crash.

    Dealers will install corrected certification labels, free of charge, and Nissan will also mail replacement labels directly to owners.

    Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Sept. 4, Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669

    Nissan’s numbers for this recall are R26B1 and R26B2.

    BMW

    BMW has issued a recall for over 300,000 vehicles due to an issue presenting a fire risk.

    A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall report said the issue stems from wear on an internal component, causing the engine starter to overheat and potentially cause a fire.

    The following models are included in the recall:

    • 2023-2024 Toyota Supra
    • 2022-2025 BMW 2 Series Coupe 
    • 2021-2023 BMW 5 Series 
    • 2022-2026 BMW Z4
    • 2023-2024 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe 
    • 2023-2024 BMW 4 Series Convertible
    • 2023-2024 BMW 4 Series Coupe
    • 2023-2024 BMW 3 Series 
    • 2021-2025 BMW X4 
    • 2021-2024 BMW X3

    BMW has also issued a separate recall for over 29,000 vehicles because of another issue related to a faulty engine starter. 

    That recall covers:

    • 2018-2020 BMW 530e xDrive 
    • 2017-2019 BMW 740Le xDrive 
    • 2018-2020 BMW 530e iPerformance
    • 2016-2018 BMW 330e iPerformance

    Both recalls will have dealers replace the engine starter at no cost to the driver.

    Hyundai

    Hyundai Motor America is recalling 47,749 model year 2025 Kona Electric and 2026 Kona vehicles. 

    The company said the seat belt buckle in the rear center seat may fail to properly restrain an occupant during a crash. A seat belt buckle that fails to restrain an occupant in a crash increases the risk of injury. 

    Until the remedy is performed, passengers are advised not to use the rear center seat.

    Dealers will replace the seat belt buckle assembly, free of charge.

    Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Sept. 11. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460; Hyundai’s number for this recall is 306.

  • Carlyle Tool awards Scholarships to 2 technician students

    Carlyle Tool awards Scholarships to 2 technician students

    The Carlyle Tools MAX Impact scholarship is given each month to students enrolled in accredited skilled-trades programs focusing on automotive, diesel, collision repair, heavy equipment, marine, motorcycle, and aviation technology.

    Each month, one winner is selected to receive a $2,500 award and a fully stocked, professional-grade toolbox packed with essential tools. Carlyle Tools and the TechForce Foundation partner to give out these awards. 

    These are two recept recipients. 

    Thomas Day 

    Thomas Day is a student at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in Houston. His program focuses on auto body/collision, although he says that he hopes to do “everything car-related” in his future career, “anything from paint to performance.” 

    The goal he has been working toward for years is to open up a shop of his own with a friend.

    “Cars are my passion and I want to have a good future,” he says. 

    He’s spent two and a half years as a store manager prior to enrolling in technical school, but now gets to pursue a passion. 

    Thomas is open about the assistance this scholarship provides for him and his ability to achieve that dream. 

    “With 30 hours of school and 30 hours of work. I’m able to skim by paycheck to paycheck but I’m falling behind on loans and credit cards,” he says. “I’m able to pay my rent and car insurance and health insurance and food/gas, but that’s about it.” 

    He says he’s been unsuccessful in looking for a new job at the moment.

    “I’m struggling while keeping myself in school and this scholarship will help ease that struggle.” 

    Michael Shawn Taylor 

    Michael Shawn Taylor is a student at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) Sacramento in California. The 19-year-old is following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather in entering the automotive service industry. He says he wants to “continue the legacy of excellence passed down through generations of my family.” 

    “What excites me most about this career is the technical challenge and creativity involved in diagnosing and repairing engines,” Taylor said. “The sound of a motor, the complexity of its systems, and the satisfaction of taking something apart piece by piece and restoring it to full functionality drive my passion for mechanics. There is a unique sense of accomplishment in starting with a non-functioning machine and ending with one that runs smoothly because of my own knowledge and effort. This passion motivates me to continue learning, improving my skills, and pursuing excellence in the field of automotive mechanics.” 

    His program at UTI Sacramento covers automotive, diesel agricultural mechanics, diesel medium- and heavy-duty, and industrial mechanics. 

    As a father of a 10-month-old, Michael is open about the struggles that come along with raising a family while pursuing higher education. 

    “Coming from a background where financial struggles are common, I simply cannot afford the cost of college on my own. Between supporting my daughter’s needs and managing everyday expenses, there is very little left to invest in my education.”  

    But he is determined to push forward despite these challenges, and the scholarship will help him do so. 

    “This scholarship makes an incredible difference in my life,” he said. “It relieves some of the financial stress that currently stands between me and my education. More importantly, it allows me to focus on my studies instead of worrying about how to pay for tuition, books, and childcare. With this support, I can dedicate myself fully to my coursework and career path, ultimately providing a better life for my daughter and improving our future opportunities.”