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  • ASE acquires WrenchWay; the pair already operate ASE Connects technician pipeline

    ASE acquires WrenchWay; the pair already operate ASE Connects technician pipeline

    The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) announced today the acquisition of WrenchWay. Under the agreement, WrenchWay’s co- founders and employees will join the ASE team.

    Their expertise will help ASE fully realize its charter to support the transportation industry by strengthening connections between schools,
    employers and industry partners while expanding support for current and future service professionals.

    “Modernizing ASE has always meant more than updating our tests. It means rethinking how we serve technicians, shops, educators and the next generation entering the industry,” said Dave Johnson, president and CEO of ASE. “WrenchWay has built something remarkable and together
    we can deliver on that vision at a scale neither of us could achieve alone.”

    The acquisition reflects ASE’s continued commitment to embracing technology and a customer-first mentality. Earlier this year, ASE and WrenchWay launched ASE Connects to help build a stronger technician pipeline. The platform strengthens connections between schools and industry, expands access to workforce data and supports automotive, diesel and collision career pathways. As the organizations integrate, ASE Connects will remain a major focus, while WrenchWay’s technology and expertise support additional areas across ASE’s growing portfolio.

    “Growing up in the industry, ASE has always been a brand I admire and respect,” said Jay Goninen, co-founder and president of WrenchWay. “The opportunity to now be part of ASE’s future is both humbling and exciting. It is a true honor to help build on that legacy while creating new
    ways to support service professionals.”

    “There are not many brands in this industry that every technician and every shop instantly recognize. ASE is one of them,” said Mark Wilson, co-founder and CEO of WrenchWay. “We have enormous respect for what’s been built here and equally high expectations for what comes next.”

    ASE and WrenchWay will share additional details in the coming weeks on integration timelines and what the transition means for current users.

    WrenchWay is a platform built to promote and improve careers in the automotive, diesel, and collision industries. By connecting shops, schools, and industry partners, WrenchWay works to strengthen the technician pipeline and support the professionals and programs that keep the industry moving forward.

  • Bendix Tech Tips: How to maintain driver assistance systems

    Bendix Tech Tips: How to maintain driver assistance systems

    Fleets continue to adopt advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technologies in increasing numbers. These systems must be properly maintained to operate most effectively. A major risk of improperly maintained systems is they will be unavailable or not perform to their fullest capacity. Driver frustration can also result when a system doesn’t operate to expectations, which can hamper acceptance of the technology.

    The latest installment of the Bendix Tech Tips series shares advice on maintaining ADAS technologies so that they provide the most benefit. It offers guidance on components including antilock braking and stability systems, radar, cameras, and electronic control modules.

    ABS and Stability Control

    ADAS technologies are built on the foundation of antilock braking systems (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) technologies. The ADAS system may not be available if there is a fault with the ABS or ESC systems.

    “One ABS concern centers on wheel-speed sensors, which can be susceptible to chassis harness issues such as rubs and chafing, as well as issues occurring when service is done at the wheel-end,” said Brian Screeton, Bendix manager for technical training and service. “The sensor may become nonfunctional, a wire may be severed, or a sensor is not close enough to the tone ring.”

    An issue that may arise for stability control can be the steering angle sensor falling out of calibration, which can sometimes happen after a front-end alignment. After any work done on the front end, it’s important to calibrate the sensor.

    “Another stability control issue is rare but does occur,” Screeton said. “It’s the incorrect placement of a lateral acceleration/yaw rate sensor after work on the frame rail or chassis modifications. If this sensor is moved or not returned to the correct orientation, then a fault may result with the stability control system.”

    Sometimes systems can show a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). Screeton notes that a simple key cycle of the ignition key – done off road in a safe area – may clear it. DTCs like this can be caused by road conditions or the terrain that the vehicle is operating in. Always first try to clear the DTC by restarting the vehicle. If it returns after restarting, then take the vehicle to a qualified repair facility immediately.

    Focus on the Radar

    Some radar issues, if they occur, can be caused by sensor misalignment, vehicle wiring, or active DTCs in other components of the vehicle – like the engine, for example. Modern or next-generation radars are better at adjusting to minor sensor alignment issues than the radars on earlier advanced driver assistance systems.

    It’s important to have all radar issues evaluated by a trained professional to ensure that the system is working properly.

    “Radar misalignment means that the radar is not pointing in the right direction,” Screeton said. “This is due usually to improper installation after a repair or after a collision with something that strikes the radar or its mounting. For Bendix, realigning the radar involves following the procedure in the corresponding Bendix service data sheet, searchable at B2Bendix.com.”

    In addition, Screeton advised, be sure to also check the bracket for damage and the mounting surface on the chassis. The appropriate repair or replacement of these components may assist in ensuring proper radar alignment is maintained.

    Because the radar is on the front of the vehicle, the connector can be exposed to many chemicals, especially in climates where snow and ice require salt, sand, or other substances to help maintain traction. Check to ensure the connector is properly covered, sealed, and secured. This step will help minimize the corrosion that may occur from repeated exposure to road chemicals.

    “Remember, too, that radars are designed to detect when they don’t ‘see’ the environment as expected,” Screeton said. “This functionality is typically referred to as radar blindness, which may occur if the radar doesn’t detect a valid object for a certain amount of time. Too few valid radar targets over a period of time can cause the radar to indicate a DTC. This might happen on long stretches of barren highway or desert where other vehicles and radar targets are nonexistent. Typically, an ignition key cycle will reset the radar and the system will resume.”

    Focus on the Camera

    Camera issues, if they occur, may be linked to camera placement, blindness, or the chassis wiring harness. The first step is to ensure the camera is plugged in and connected. Then keep the following in mind:

    • Chassis wires that are frayed, cut, or improperly repaired may create issues with the camera – just as with other vehicle systems. For non-obvious issues, always check the chassis harness first.
    • “Camera blindness is usually a temporary, self-correcting occurrence, possibly due to sun and/or fog,” Screeton said. “However, if the camera is blocked by something – like a large bug or a piece of tape – then this will also cause a problem.”
    • Has the windshield been replaced? If so, then install the camera using the correct bracket in the original OEM installation location to ensure proper function.

    For any repairs associated with potential camera issues, follow the procedure in the corresponding Bendix service data sheet, searchable at B2Bendix.com.

    Issues With Software and the ECM

    It’s possible that issues with Bendix systems can result when improperly installed or incompatible aftermarket components are added that use the vehicle’s J1939 datalink network.

    Frequently, according to Screeton, connectors and connection types are the reason.

    “However, issues involving aftermarket component compatibility also create communication concerns,” he said. “Don’t overlook a chassis wire that has rubbed on a metal piece creating a shorted or an open circuit – it typically leads to the inability to connect to the component for diagnostics since diagnostics is performed using the same 1939 CAN communication lines.”

    And note this critical point, said Screeton: If the engine electronic control module (ECM) is replaced, then the replacement ECM must be correct for the truck. Bendix’s stability control electronic control units (ECUs) require a match to the VIN to ensure the proper parameters are uploaded for the system.

    Tools at Hand

    Careful review of the operator’s manual by every driver is essential to ensure they are aware of the ADAS system alerts and notifications expected during operation. It’s especially important that drivers know how the system is supposed to operate, as well as its limitations, so they can better understand if or when something isn’t working properly.

    “Having a diagnostic tool that shows the DTCs of the full vehicle is important, as well,” Screeton said. “The diagnostic software for Bendix systems is Bendix® ACom® AE. When connected to a vehicle, the software automatically detects and gathers active and inactive DTCs from all Bendix electronic control units on the vehicle, as well as key vehicle ECUs, like the engine and transmission.”

    Screeton encourages technicians to take advantage of available training. Bendix offers three- and two-day Brake School sessions, along with virtual classes and the Bendix On-Line Brake School at brake-school.com. The training helps technicians better understand, troubleshoot, and repair systems. The Bendix On-Line Brake School courses are accessible for no charge when users register with the site.

    “Remember that ADAS systems, like vehicles, can be unique,” Screeton noted. “One-size-fits-all training isn’t going to be as helpful as training focused on repairing the specific system of concern.”

    The issues described in this installment of Tech Tips are not meant to exhaustively cover what can occur with ADAS technologies, nor are they applicable to all technologies on all vehicles. The content refers to Bendix® advanced driver assistance systems, not autonomous vehicle systems or systems offered by other companies. Information regarding system repairs for specific systems should be referenced to ensure proper repair, maintenance, and operation of the system.

    Bendix emphasizes that advanced driver assistance technologies complement safe driving practices. No commercial vehicle safety technology, including Bendix safety technologies, replaces a skilled, alert driver exercising safe driving techniques and proactive, comprehensive driving training. Responsibility for the safe operation of the vehicle remains with the driver at all times. Never wait for the system to intervene. Every driver should carefully review the operator’s manual and be trained by the fleet or vehicle owner on the proper operation and limitations of the ADAS system during operation.

    Support on Bendix ADAS technologies is available by calling the Bendix Tech Team at 1-800-AIR-BRAKE.

  • 6 new recalls issued by Ford

    6 new recalls issued by Ford

    Ford Motor Company has issued six new recalls covering a total of about 171,000 vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

    The recalls include:

    Daytime running lamps on 91,198 2018-2020 F-150 vehicles do not dim may reduce the visibility of other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Fordsaid the vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 20V097. When the headlight switch is turned from “Autolamps” to “Headlamps On,” the daytime running lamps may remain fully bright instead of dimming to parking lamps as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment.”

    Dealers will reprogram the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6. Owners may contact customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 26C28. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6.

    A closing window that does not reverse direction as expected can pinch a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury. The recall applies to some 18,124 2017 Ford Escapes.

    The vehicles were previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 16V617. The power-operated windows may exert excessive force when encountering an object, before they automatically reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 118, “Power-Operated Window Systems.”

    Dealers will update the power window operating system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6. Owners may contact customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 26C29. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6.

    Unintended gear selection may cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction, increasing the risk of crash or injury.

    Ford is recalling 10,742 2018 F-150 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 17V669. Quickly moving the shift lever from Park to Drive may cause a loss of gear indication on the instrument cluster display and a momentary selection of an unintended gear, such as Reverse or Neutral.

    Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6.. Owners may contact customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 26S42. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6,.

    A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components can increase the risk of a fir

    Ford is recalling 5,252 2015-2018 Focus and 2013-2016 Fusion vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 18V169 and 18V845. The clutch may fracture, resulting in damage to the transmission assembly and possibly a transmission fluid leak.

    Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 26S43. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6.

    The steering wheel hands-off detection alerts may fail on certain 2019 Lincoln Nautilus vehicles and may increase the risk of a crash. The recall applies to 1,013 vehicles

    Ford is recalling previously repaired vehicles incorrectly under recall number 19V031. The lane center assist system may not adequately detect if a driver has their hands off the steering wheel for a prolonged period of time.

    Dealers will update the power steering control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6. Owners may contact customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 26S44. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6.

    Unexpectedly downshifting into first gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash in some F-150 vehicles.

    Ford is recalling some 44,963 model year 2014 F-150 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V444. A loss of signal between the transmission output shaft speed sensor and the powertrain control module (PCM) can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift into first gear.

    Dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6.. Owners may contact customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 26S45. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6.

  • Canada’s 401 Heavy Duty Truck Parts joins Vipar

    Canada’s 401 Heavy Duty Truck Parts joins Vipar

    VIPAR Heavy Duty is pleased to announce that 401 Heavy Duty Truck Parts Inc., headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada has joined the VIPAR Heavy Duty network of independent distributors, adding five locations to the organization’s network in Canada.

    Founded in 2017, 401 Heavy Duty Truck Parts Inc. is a full-line heavy duty aftermarket distributor serving customers throughout the Toronto Area. It was started by Abdul Mian and David Langley with a vision to deliver a strong customer-focused approach to truck and trailer parts distribution. 

    “We set out to build a business centered around accessibility and customer support with things like extended hours (all stores are open 7 days a week, 364 days a year) and hiring former truck mechanics to work on our counters. Most importantly, we listened to our customers and our valued vendors to ensure that we have the parts that they need when they need them,” said Langley.

    401 Heavy Duty Truck Parts Inc. is led by Mian, CFO Sofia Mian, Vice President Umayr Mian, and Langley, Director of Sales and Marketing, who is a veteran of the heavy duty aftermarket with more than 30 years of industry experience. The organization employs about 40 team members and operates a fleet of delivery vehicles to support regional customers.

    The company has grown from a single location into a multi-branch operation with facilities in Mississauga, Cambridge, London, Bolton, and Brampton, Ontario, supporting fleets, diesel and trailer repair shops, and government accounts across Canada’s largest trucking market.

    At its headquarters in Mississauga, 401 Heavy Duty Truck Parts Inc. operates alongside ASA Truck Repairs (also owned by Mian) at the same facility. This integrated model allows drivers and fleets to source parts and complete repairs or preventative maintenance efficiently at a single location.

    The company offers a comprehensive inventory with over 9,000 different parts in stock, including air and brake products, filters, cooling, lubricants, truck lighting, accessories, and specialized products such as wiring harnesses, NOx sensors, and DEF filters. Complementing its in-store inventory, 401 Heavy Duty Truck Parts Inc. provides delivery services for larger parts orders and maintains an experienced team of parts professionals to support customers. All locations offer flywheel resurfacing or exchange.

  • Cummins, Texas State Technical College expand diesel partnership

    Cummins, Texas State Technical College expand diesel partnership

    Cummins is expanding their partnership with Texas State Technical College’s statewide Diesel Equipment program, offering educational resources to students and instructors that will be incorporated into course modules. 

    “Cummins is one of the leading engine manufacturers in the world,” said Richard Ferrell, the director of alignment for TSTC’s Diesel Equipment program. “All of the students are going to be exposed to these engines no matter what shop they’re working in.”

    The Diesel Equipment program is also available at the Abilene, Fort Bend County, Harlingen, Marshall, North Texas, Sweetwater and Waco locations.

    Cummins began its partnership with TSTC by offering free virtual learning resources to a few of the college’s Diesel Equipment instructors. Chris Bishop, the company’s technical training manager for Texas, Oklahoma and the East Coast, said Ferrell approached him about further developments last year.

    He explained the program’s students and instructors have been given free subscriptions to QuickServe and INSITE — the company’s virtual learning tools that contain everything from diagnostics to training manuals and diagrams.

    “We assigned them a training ID that is with them for the rest of their career, so if they leave the school and go work for a dealership, that training goes with them — it never expires,” Bishop said.

    The Diesel Equipment program will be bringing the virtual tasks to its hands-on labs as well. Ferrell said that the program’s curriculum will be updated to include Cummins’ most applicable and beneficial training modules. This change will be fully implemented in fall 2027.

    “Instead of the students simply reading from the text and applying that in the classroom, the Cummins training also gives animations and explanations farther in depth than our current text does; the students will be training on the task virtually before completing it in the lab,” Ferrell said. “It’s going to make them more hireable for a higher salary and make them more competitive with people applying for the same job that don’t have that background.”

    Several Diesel Equipment instructors have already taken advantage of the free learning modules, and many of them agree with Ferrell that it will give their students an advantage in the industry hiring process.

    The Diesel Equipment program will also be implementing other specific OEM training from Peterbilt and Freightliner in fall 2027.

    The program offers several associate degrees and certificates of completion. 

    Registration for the fall semester at TSTC is underway. For more information about TSTC, go to tstc.edu.

  • Saia honors two technicians for safety & longevity

    Saia honors two technicians for safety & longevity

    Saia Inc. recently announced nearly 8,000 Saia dockworkers, mechanics, city drivers, and line drivers were recently recognized for achieving a major safety milestone, reflecting the company’s steadfast dedication to fostering a safe and responsible work environment.

    Included in that group were two technicians who have achieved more than 40 years of safe work without a recordable incident. They were:

    • Lafayette, Louisiana Lead Mechanic Lawrence Benoit
    • New Orleans, Louisiana Mechanic Darryl Gay

    Nearly 2,400 dockworkers and mechanics were presented with a Safe Work Award this year, collectively contributing over 15,000 years of injury-free service. These awards recognize employees who consistently demonstrate operational excellence and prioritize safety protocols in every aspect of their work.

  • Austin’s Papmered Auto Care acquired by Great Water 360

    Austin’s Papmered Auto Care acquired by Great Water 360

    GreatWater 360 Auto Care recently announced the acquisition of Pampered Auto Care, an automotive service provider known for its technical expertise, customer-focused culture, and long-standing relationships throughout the greater Austin, Texas community.

    Pampered Auto Care has built its reputation by delivering high-quality service while creating a customer experience centered on trust, transparency, and convenience, according to a statement from GreatWater 360. The shop will continue operating under its established name with its existing team in place, ensuring continuity for customers while gaining access to additional resources and support through the GreatWater platform.

    “What stood out most about working with GreatWater was the people. The numbers and details mattered, but what gave me confidence was getting to know the team and feeling like I had a true partner. More than anything, I knew I was leaving my business in the hands of people I could trust.” Edin Huskic, former owner of. Pampered Auto Care.

    While every shop owner approaches succession differently, GreatWater has built its acquisition model around a common reality: owners care deeply about the people and communities connected to their businesses.

    “We’ve learned that most owners aren’t looking for the highest bidder. They’re looking for the right steward,” said Scott Anderson, President & Chief Operating Officer of GreatWater 360 Auto Care. “The conversations almost always come back to the same things: their employees, their customers, and the legacy they’ve built over many years. Our responsibility is to honor that while providing the resources and support that help the business continue to grow.”

    Unlike many consolidators, GreatWater’s approach centers on preserving what makes each shop successful. Every location retains its local identity, customer relationships, and culture while gaining access to the company’s centralized operating platform.

    Through that platform, Pampered Auto Care will benefit from expanded technician development programs, marketing capabilities, technology tools, and operational expertise that can be difficult for independent operators to build on their own.

  • sun strengthens its position in the South, buying locations in TN and GA

    sun strengthens its position in the South, buying locations in TN and GA

    Sun Auto’s said strategic growth across key regional markets continues with the acquisition of two locations: Highland Auto in Tennessee and Highland Tire at Sentry Station in Georgia.

    According to na statement from the company, this move signals greater network connectivity for customers, marking the first location in the state of Georgia alongside a fourth location in Tennessee. This expansion also aligns with broader growth efforts this year, which include adding Colorado and bringing Sun Auto’s footprint to 27 states nationwide.

    As part of the Sun Auto Network, both locations build on their established reputations with added tools and support. These include 24/7 online appointment scheduling and digital vehicle inspections, all guided by the company’s Driver Commitment centered on clarity, confidence, and customer care, said a statement from Sun.

    “Expanding into the Southeast is an important step in strengthening our national footprint and positioning our network for long-term growth,” said Chris Tavares, SVP Operations, Sun Auto. “Establishing a presence in Georgia allows us to serve more customers, support our teams with greater regional resources and build stronger continuity across key markets.”

    Both sites offer a full range of automotive care, including an array of top tire brands with a price match guarantee, alignments, brake service, oil changes, batteries, diagnostics and preventative maintenance.

    Sun Auto Network operates more than 575 locations across the country.

  • National Technician Appreciation Week for 2026 gets under Way

    National Technician Appreciation Week for 2026 gets under Way

    Honoring the hard work and commitment of professional technicians, the American Trucking Associations and ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council will kick off the seventh annual National Technician Appreciation Week on Sunday, June 14.  This year’s theme is “Celebrating technicians that keep us moving.”
     
    “Trucking operations run around the clock and cover hundreds of billions of miles to deliver to virtually every home, workplace, and business.  Our nation owes enormous gratitude to the hardworking men and women who keep our trucks well maintained and ensure the wheels of our essential industry continue to turn,”  said ATA President & CEO Chris Spear.  “During National Technician Appreciation Week, we will join Americans from coast to coast in celebrating technicians and thanking them for their knowledge, skill, and attention to detail.  Their professionalism and commitment to upholding exacting standards enhance the efficiency of our supply chain and help to keep everyone on the road safe.”
     
    Professional technicians perform one of the most demanding and critical roles in trucking. NTAW acknowledges the extraordinary efforts and talent of these dedicated professionals.
     
    “During National Technician Appreciation Week, we recognize the professional technicians who are indispensable to trucking operations,” said TMC Executive Director Robert Braswell.  “By ensuring vehicles are safe and ready for service, technicians make it possible for drivers to deliver the goods we all rely on.  This week is an opportunity for both the industry and the public to show their appreciation and thank these professionals for the critical work they do every day.”

  • Jeep recalls over 1 million Wranglers, Gladiators; warn of possible fire

    Jeep recalls over 1 million Wranglers, Gladiators; warn of possible fire

    A massive recall has been issued for Jeep vehicles becuse thet present a hazard of fire.

    More than 1 million Jeep vehicles are being recalled because of a serious fire hazard.

    FCA US has issued a recall for more than one million model year 2021-2025 Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler vehicles due to a risk of fire, even when the vehicles are not operating.. Owners and repairers should park their vehicles outside and away from other vehicles and buildings.

    The recall affects 1,076,999 Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler vehicles, which may have an electrical connection issue in the electric hydraulic power steering pump wiring. This could cause combustible materials to overheat and catch fire. 

    FCA will notify owners when a recall remedy is available, and owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on July 9.

    Affected vehicle identification numbers and license plates are searchable on NHTSA.gov .