Follow Us
Subscribe
TRENDING

Author: admin

  • Vanguard Truck Centers now offers Guardian Mobile Express mobile truck service

    Vanguard Truck Centers now offers Guardian Mobile Express mobile truck service

    Vanguard Truck Centers has announced the launch of Guardian Mobile Express, a new mobile truck service division designed to bring fast, on-site repair and maintenance directly to commercial trucks and fleets. The initiative is focused on helping customers maximize uptime and minimize costly downtime by reducing the need for shop visits and keeping vehicles operating where they are needed most, according to a statement from the Atlanda headquartered company.

    Guardian Mobile Express is built to support drivers and fleet managers with rapid-response mobile service that delivers essential maintenance and repair work directly to the customer’s location. By shifting certain services out of the shop and into the field, the division aims to reduce delays and keep trucks on the road, Vanguard said.

    Guardian Mobile Express will begin operations in Savannah and Atlanta, with a dedicated express lane in Valdosta. The company plans to expand into Houston in the near future.

    The rollout is strategically focused on key transportation and logistics corridors to ensure fast access to mobile diesel technicians and on-site repair services where demand is highest.

    Vanguard’s statement said the new division was developed in response to increasing demand for faster and more efficient service solutions within the trucking and transportation industry. Many trucks are taken out of service for minor repairs that can often be completed on-site. Guardian Mobile Express addresses this challenge by deploying skilled mobile technicians equipped to perform service in the field.

    This approach is intended to help fleets avoid unnecessary delays, reduce operating costs, and improve overall fleet efficiency.

    As part of its service model, Guardian Mobile Express works alongside Vanguard Truck Centers’ existing full-service mobile support. While Guardian Mobile Express focuses on mobile repair and preventative maintenance, Vanguard continues to provide support for more complex repairs, advanced diagnostics, and heavy-duty service needs. This dual structure ensures customers receive the appropriate level of service without unnecessary downtime.

    Guardian Mobile Express technicians provide a range of high-impact, time-sensitive mobile truck repair and maintenance services designed to keep commercial vehicles operating safely and efficiently. These services include:

    • Preventative maintenance
    • DOT inspections
    • Mobile lighting and electrical repairs
    • Mudflap and exterior equipment replacement
    • Belt and drive system service and replacement
    • Minor warranty repairs
    • Software campaign updates

    Each service is completed on-site, helping fleets reduce shop wait times, avoid unnecessary downtime, and maintain road-ready equipment, Vanguard said.

    By prioritizing rapid-response mobile diesel service, Guardian Mobile Express is designed to improve fleet uptime, enhance operational efficiency, and support safer, more reliable transportation.

    The division is positioned for continued growth, with future expansion plans targeting high-demand markets to increase service coverage, improve response times, and deliver consistent mobile truck repair and maintenance support across additional regions, according to the company.

    Vanguard has locations in 11 states, including:

    • Arizona: Bellemont, Phoenix (2), and Tucson
    • Georgia: Adairsville, Atlanta, Commerce, Macon, Savannah, Tifton, and Valdosta
    • Illinois: Cahokia Heights (St. Louis area)
    • Kentucky: Franklin
    • Maryland: Williamsport (Hagerstown area)
    • Missouri: St. Charles (St. Louis West)
    • North Carolina: Charlotte, Conover (Hickory), Durham, Greensboro, and Mt. Airy
    • South Carolina: Beech Island (serving the Augusta, GA area)
    • Tennessee: Clarksville and La Vergne (Nashville area)
    • Texas: Alvin, Austin, Buda, El Paso, Georgetown, and Houston (3 locations)
    • Virginia: Harrisonburg and Troutville (Roanoke area)
  • GreatWater 360’s 155th acquisition is family-owned shop in Minneapolis

    GreatWater 360’s 155th acquisition is family-owned shop in Minneapolis

    GreatWater 360 Auto Care has acquired Crosstown Auto Repair, a family-owned shop serving the south metro Minneapolis area.

    This is GreatWater 360’s 155th location nationwide and second acquisition in Minnesota in 2026.

    Led by former owner Perry Linn, whose automotive career began working in his father’s service station at a young age, Crosstown Auto Repair reflects decades of hands-on experience and a deep personal investment in the business and its community. Today, the shop is known throughout Burnsville, Savage, Lakeville, and Eagan for its honest, customer-focused approach to full-service repair and tire service.

    The addition of Crosstown continues GreatWater’s strategic expansion in Minnesota, following the acquisition of Leighton’s Garage earlier this year.

    “We’re intentional about how we build within a market, and Crosstown is a great example of that approach,” said Jim Dykstra, CEO of GreatWater 360 Auto Care. “Perry and his team have built a strong reputation by taking care of customers the right way. When someone has invested that much into a business, it’s important to find a partner who will respect that and carry it forward. We’re honored to be that partner.”

    “I was reserved and cautious about selling,”said Perry Linn, former owner of Crosstown Auto Repair. “I wanted to find someone who was going to keep the shop’s legacy alive, but above all else I wanted to protect the team and find the right fit for them. GreatWater understood what I valued and had demonstrated how their model matched. At every stage in the process I felt confident the shop and team were going to be in great hands.”

    Crosstown Auto Repair will continue operating under its existing name with its current team in place. As part of the GreatWater network, the shop will gain access to expanded training programs, operational support, and tools designed to enhance both the employee and customer experience.

    GreatWater said its growth strategy focuses on partnering with shops that align with its values, strengthen its presence in key markets, and fit within its operating model. By investing in communities where it is actively building a footprint, the company continues to create a network of locally trusted shops supported by shared resources and infrastructure.

  • ASE schedules Webinar on new AC refrigerants

    ASE schedules Webinar on new AC refrigerants

    The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is hosting a free webinar on new air conditioning refrigerants.

    The webinar is slated for June 4 and is entitled “R-444A and R-456A – New Refrigerants for MVAC Service.”

    Chuck Abbot and Adam Kimmel from Orbia will discuss R-444A and R-456A, emerging refrigerants for motor vehicle air conditioning service. These new refrigerants are expected to be approved for use under the EPA’s SNAP Rule #27 later this year.

    Discussion in the webinar will include refrigerant characteristics, applications, oil requirements, special fittings and equipment, along with everything shops and technicians need to know to protect on-site recyclability.

    Participants in this webinar will receive a certificate of attendance for the live session over email within one week. 

    For more information or to register, click here.

  • In Canada, Diversified Royalty pays $235M for Mr. Lube + Tires

    In Canada, Diversified Royalty pays $235M for Mr. Lube + Tires

    Diversified Royalty Corp. recently announced that it, and its newly formed wholly owned subsidiary, have entered into an agreement with Mr. Lube Canada Limited Partnership and Mr. Lube Canada GP Inc. for the acquisition of the Mr. Lube + Tires franchisor business in Canada.

    The purchase price was $235 million.

    Sean Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of DIV, said, “DIV looks forward to completing the acquisition and increasing its economic exposure to Mr. Lube + Tires, our largest and best performing royalty partner. DIV is keen to work with Mr. Lube + Tires’ management as part of DIV and as equity partners, to continue Mr. Lube + Tires’ impressive growth and build it into Canada’s leading automotive services franchise business.

    Pamela Lee, President and CEO of Mr. Lube + Tires, said, “Over its 50-year history, Mr. Lube + Tires has delivered trusted, convenient automotive maintenance to millions of Canadians who visit its locations each year. Mr. Lube + Tires has been partners with DIV for over 11 years, and we are excited to continue our partnership with DIV and unlock new growth opportunities for our franchisees as we execute on our strategy to become the largest automotive services franchise business in Canada.”

    Mr. Lube + Tires is the leading Canadian automotive service chain specializing in fast, drive-in drive-through, noappointment-needed vehicle maintenance.

    Founded by Cliff Giese in Edmonton in 1976, the creation of Mr. Lube + Tires launched the quick lube service
    industry in Canada, and around the world. Conceived as a way to provide quick, no-appointment oil changes that appealed to the consumer’s need for convenience, over time Mr. Lube + Tires expanded its offerings to include other light automotive services including tire sales and installations; such other services now representing the majority of system sales.

    As the chain grew, it also became one of the most successful franchising groups in Canada, with franchisees operating 186 of the 187 locations. For the past 13 years Mr. Lube + Tires has been named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, and it was recently recognized as having Canada’s Most
    Admired Corporate Culture.

    Mr. Lube + Tires services over 2 million Canadians customers each year, generating over $500 million in system sales.

    Mr. Lube + Tire joins Diversified Royalty’s other holdings, which include:

    • Nurse Next Door: Home care services
    • Stratus Building Solutions: Commercial cleaning services
    • BarBurrito: Fast-casual Mexican restaurants
    • Cheba Hut: Toasted sub sandwich shops
    • Mr. Mikes: Casual dining restaurants
    • Sutton Group: Real estate services
    • Oxford Learning Centres: Supplemental education
  • victory Tire & Auto acquires Blaine, MN Service Garage

    victory Tire & Auto acquires Blaine, MN Service Garage

     Victory Tire & Auto, in business in Minnesota since 1997 and a Straightaway brand, recently announced the acquisition of Service Garage in Blaine, Minnesota, marking its 29th shop in the state. 

    Service Garage, owned by Brian and Nancy Gross, has been serving the Blaine community and surrounding areas since 2003. After 40 years of serving the Blaine community, Brian and Nancy decided it was time to start thinking about their retirement.

    “Finding the right partner to carry on what we built was incredibly important to us,” said Bran Gross, owner of Service Garage. “Not only for our loyal customers, but for our amazing team as well. From the beginning, Victory Tire & Auto stood out as the right choice because they share the same values that we’ve always believed in.

    “We’re confident Victory will continue taking great care of the Blaine community and preserve the relationships and trust with our customers. We’re grateful for the support we’ve received throughout this journey and are excited for this next chapter with our family.”

    Victory Tire & Auto plans to continue building on the strong reputation Service Garage has established in the Blaine community. The acquisition reflects Victory’s continued commitment to partnering with respected local shops that align with its values of honesty, quality work, and trusted customer care.

    “We’re honored that Brian and Nancy chose Victory Tire & Auto to carry on the legacy they’ve built over the past four decades,” said Jeff Matt, brand president of Victory Tire & Auto. “Earning that kind of trust means a great deal to us. We’re excited to welcome both the team and customers into the Victory family, and we look forward to building on the strong foundation that has already been established in the community for years to come.”

    The addition of Service Garage of Blaine represents another step in Victory’s strategic growth across Minnesota, enhancing its ability to serve more customers with trusted, high-quality automotive care. For more information about Victory Tire & Auto, please visit www.victorytireandauto.com.

  • Car owners turn to DIY as costs & need to hold onto vehicles increase

    Car owners turn to DIY as costs & need to hold onto vehicles increase

    Consumers are increasingly taking vehicle care into their own hands, driving measurable growth across the automotive aftermarket as do-it-yourself (DIY) maintenance becomes more mainstream. New insights from Circana highlight how this behavioral shift is impacting key product categories, fueled by economic pressures and evolving ownership and travel needs.

    According to recently launched tracking information from Circana, U.S. sales revenue in the automotive hand tools category grew 3.2% in the 12 months ending March 2026. This uptick follows a period of flat performance in the prior year across items such as sockets, wrenches, pliers, and other specialty hand tools sold at auto specialty retailers — underscoring a renewed momentum tied to consumer engagement in DIY auto care.

    The DIY trend suggested by the recent growth in automotive hand tools is further underscored by sales in other core maintenance categories Circana has been monitoring. Unit sales of motor oil (quart volume) and filters have increased by 3% or more for three consecutive years across retail channels, signaling sustained consumer commitment to performing routine vehicle maintenance independently.

    “Consumers are enlisting do-it-yourself auto maintenance in an effort to save money amid challenging economic times, rising gas prices, and growing needs being placed on their vehicles,” says Nathan Shipley, automotive industry analyst for Circana. “We’re seeing shoppers become more resourceful and hands-on as they look for ways to extend the life of their vehicles and manage expenses.”

    The shift reflects broader market dynamics influencing consumer decision-making:

    • Cost-conscious behavior: Rising costs across fuel, repairs, and everyday expenses are prompting vehicle owners to seek savings through self-service maintenance.
    • Vehicle longevity needs: With consumers keeping cars longer, there is increased demand for ongoing upkeep and performance optimization.
    • Access to knowledge and tools: Online tutorials, digital guides, and more intuitive product designs are making DIY maintenance more accessible than ever.
    • Retail adaptation: Automotive retailers are expanding product assortments and educational resources to meet growing DIY demand

    Recent growth in automotive hand tool sales represents an important indicator of engagement, as these purchases often precede or accompany more advanced repair activities. Meanwhile, the steady growth in consumables like motor oil and filters points to routine maintenance becoming a habitual practice among a broader consumer base.

    “As economic uncertainty persists and vehicle dependency remains high, DIY auto maintenance will continue to gain traction with consumers,” added Shipley. “Manufacturers, retailers, and service providers who support these behaviors by offering not just products, but also education, will build the consumer relationships that are critical right now.”

  • Fleet maintenance provider Amerit acquires Canadian reefer repair specialist company

    Fleet maintenance provider Amerit acquires Canadian reefer repair specialist company

    Amerit Fleet Solutions, a leading provider of fleet maintenance and fleet solutions based in Walnut Creek, California, today announced the acquisition of Pro Reefer, a Canada-based fleet maintenance provider specializing in refrigerated trailer units.

    Terms of the deal were not made public.

    This acquisition strengthens Amerit’s refrigerated fleet service offerings and expands Amerit’s footprint into Canada, enhancing support for customers across the U.S. and Canadian markets, according to a statement from Amerit.

    Founded in 1998 with a dedicated focus on reefer systems, Pro Reefer has built a strong reputation for high-quality maintenance, diagnostics, and repair services for refrigerated trailers and transport refrigeration units. For over 28 years, the company has served customers in food distribution, cold chain logistics, and temperature-sensitive freight, providing preventive maintenance, emergency repairs, and compliance-driven service solutions.

    “Pro Reefer’s deep technical expertise in refrigerated equipment, excellent and tenured leadership team, and strong entrepreneurial culture make the company a fantastic fit for Amerit,” said Ross Rachey, Chief Executive Officer of Amerit Fleet Solutions. “This acquisition allows us to further support customers while expanding our service capabilities and geographic reach in Canada.”

    “We are excited to join Amerit and become part of an organization that shares our commitment to reliability, safety, and service excellence,” said Thomas Vandermeer, President and Founder of Pro Reefer. “I am honored to lead this organization into our next chapter, which will enable us to deliver even greater value to our customers while continuing to specialize in the reefer services they depend on.”

    “Pro Reefer is a perfect example of a market-leading management team and employee base that Amerit aims to partner with,” added Adam Lev, VP of Corporate Development. “We are excited to continue our growth story in the Canadian market.”

    The acquisition reflects Amerit’s continued investment in fleet solutions and its long-term strategy to support complex fleet operations across multiple asset types and geographies..

    Amerit Fleet Solutions is a provider of customized fleet maintenance and fleet solutions. Amerit manages over 350,000 assets and employs over 3,000 technicians. Amerit’s core services include mobile and onsite fleet maintenance, acquisitions and disposals, compliance, fueling, ops support center and Claims, and Program Management. Through these comprehensive services, Amerit helps organizations improve vehicle uptime, safety, and operational efficiency, according to the company.

  • 574 vehicles placed out of service in one-day North American brake inspection blitz

    574 vehicles placed out of service in one-day North American brake inspection blitz

    Certified commercial motor vehicle inspectors throughout North America conducted 4,021 inspections of commercial motor vehicles during a recent surprise one day enforcement blitz, and placed 574 of those vehicles out of service due to brake-related violations.

    Brake Safety Day is the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) annual brake-safety inspection, regulatory compliance and data-collection initiative. Forty-seven jurisdictions throughout Canada, Mexico and the U.S. participated in this year’s Brake Safety Day, which was April 14.

    This year, emphasis was placed on drums and rotors. Inspectors identified 43 drum and rotor violations, of which 21 were out-of-service violations, according to the CVSA.

    Inspectors identified 313 commercial motor vehicles that met the 20% defective brakes out of-service criterion, which is when 20% or more of the vehicle’s (or combination of vehicles’) brakes have a condition that impairs braking ability to a degree that the brake is considered defective.

    In addition, inspectors identified 121 out-of-service violations related to brake hoses and/or tubing, 47 vehicles had steering axle out-of-service violations, 40 vehicles failed an air loss rate test, and there were 193 other out-of-service brake violations, such as inoperative tractor protection system, hydraulic or electric brake violations, inoperative parking/emergency brake, inoperative low-air warning device, etc. 

    Ten U.S. jurisdictions conducted 349 inspections utilizing a performance-based brake tester (PBBT), which is a machine that assesses the braking performance of a vehicle. U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and CVSA’s North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria require a minimum braking efficiency of 43.5%. Twenty-six vehicles failed to meet the required 43.5% minimum braking efficiency rate and were placed out of service.

    Most of the inspections completed (3,643 or 90.6%) on Brake Safety Day were North American Standard Level I Inspections. A Level I Inspection is a thorough 37-step procedure that examines the driver’s operating requirements and assesses the vehicle’s mechanical fitness. The Level I Inspection is the most-commonly conducted inspection type overall.

    CVSA’s Brake Safety Day is part of Operation Airbrake, a CVSA program dedicated to improving commercial motor vehicle brake safety throughout North America. CVSA’s seven-day brake safety campaign is scheduled for Aug. 23-29.

  • GreatWater 360 adds yet two more companies to its list of acquisitions

    GreatWater 360 adds yet two more companies to its list of acquisitions

    A major Midwestern auto care company continues its acquisitive ways with teh addition of two more companies, one in Minnesota and the other in Michigan.

    GreatWater 360 Auto Care recently acquired Crosstown Auto Repair, a family-owned shop serving the south metro Minneapolis area, marking its 155th location nationwide and second acquisition in Minnesota in 2026.

    Led by former owner Perry Linn, whose automotive career began working in his father’s service station at a young age, Crosstown Auto Repair reflects decades of hands-on experience and a deep personal investment in the business and its community. Today, the shop is known throughout Burnsville, Savage, Lakeville, and Eagan for its honest, customer-focused approach to full-service repair and tire service, according to a statement from GreatWater 360.

    The addition of Crosstown continues GreatWater’s strategic expansion in Minnesota, following the acquisition of Leighton’s Garage earlier this year.

    “We’re intentional about how we build within a market, and Crosstown is a great example of that approach,” said Jim Dykstra, CEO of GreatWater 360 Auto Care. “Perry and his team have built a strong reputation by taking care of customers the right way. When someone has invested that much into a business, it’s important to find a partner who will respect that and carry it forward. We’re honored to be that partner.”

    “I was reserved and cautious about selling,” said Linn. “I wanted to find someone who was going to keep the shop’s legacy alive, but above all else I wanted to protect the team and find the right fit for them. GreatWater understood what I valued and had demonstrated how their model matched. At every stage in the process I felt confident the shop and team were going to be in great hands.”

    Crosstown Auto Repair will continue operating under its existing name with its current team in place. As part of the GreatWater network, the shop will gain access to expanded training programs, operational support, and tools designed to enhance both the employee and customer experience.

    In another recent move, GreatWater acquired Holly Tire & Auto Service, a family-owned auto repair shop in Holly, Michigan.

    Founded in 1991, Holly Tire & Auto Service has built a strong reputation in the community for honest, high-quality automotive repair and tire service. Its commitment to transparency—clear communication, upfront approvals, and no surprises—has made it a trusted partner for drivers throughout the surrounding area, said a staement from GreatWater 360.”

    “We’re always looking for shops that put the customer experience at the center of everything they do,” said Scott Anderson, President & COO of GreatWater 360 Auto Care. “Holly Tire & Auto has built its reputation on transparency, communication, and doing the right thing for the customer. From the beginning, it was clear that Allan and his team shared our values, and the process of working together reflected that alignment.”

    Holly Tire & Auto Service will continue operating under its existing name with its current team in place. As part of the GreatWater network, the shop will gain access to expanded training programs, operational support, and resources designed to enhance both the employee and customer experience.

    “As a single-location shop owner, there are a lot of challenges, and I had been thinking about what the future should look like,” said Allan Fee, former owner of Holly Tire & Auto Service. “I already knew GreatWater had a strong reputation, and after seeing a friend go through the process with them, I felt confident taking that step myself. What mattered most was taking care of my team, protecting the reputation we built, and maintaining continuity for our customers. GreatWater delivered on all of that.

    “Honestly, my biggest concern was how my team would react, but the process couldn’t have gone better. The team at GreatWater are just real, down-to-earth folks who made everyone feel comfortable from day one.”

    GreatWater’s growth strategy focuses on partnering with shops that align with its values, strengthen its presence in established markets, and fit within its operating model—building on what already makes those businesses successful.

    As the company continues to grow, more shop owners are seeking a transition partner that prioritizes their team, customers, and long-term legacy. GreatWater’s approach provides both a practical and personal path forward, ensuring that the businesses owners have built, and the people behind them, continue to thrive for years to come.

  • ‘Do not drive’ order issued with GM recall

    ‘Do not drive’ order issued with GM recall

    General Motors has issued a recall notice for numerous vehicles with four-wheel or all-wheel drive.

    The company has also issued a “do not drive” warning for the vehicles.

    According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall covers certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with four-wheel (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and certain 2015-2020 Suburban, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Tahoe vehicles.

    The NHTSA said the front and/or rear wheels on these vehicles may lock up and cause a crash. GM said there is a component missing from the drivetrain transfer case.

    A total of 66 vehicles are covered by this recall.

    Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 22, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM’s number for this recall is N262557620. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 7.