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Tag: Newsletter 3rd Article

  • Ford recalls 4.3 million vehicles; among several carmakers with software problems

    Ford recalls 4.3 million vehicles; among several carmakers with software problems

    Several automakers have announced major recalls prompted by software issues, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

    Ford

    Ford is recalling over 4.3 million vehicles, including 2021–2026 F-150, 2022–2026 F-250 Super Duty, Expedition, Maverick, and 2024–2026 Ranger models, because of a software “race condition” in the Integrated Trailer Module (ITRM). This error can cause a loss of communication between the vehicle and trailer, resulting in the failure of trailer brake lights and turn signals. This potentially increases the possigility of a total loss of trailer braking capability. Ford will issue an over-the-air (OTA) software update to the module, or dealers can perform the update manually, under NHTSA Campaign ID 26V-104.

    Toyota

    Toyota is recalling numerous 2025–2026 Lexus LX 600 SUVs because of a software error in the transmission control unit that can cause a solenoid to fail. This failure can result in unexpected shifting behavior, a sudden loss of power, or internal mechanical damage to the 10-speed automatic transmission. Dealers will update the transmission control unit software and replace the valve body or transmission assembly if internal damage is already present under NHTSA Campaign ID 26V-089.

    Cadillac

    General Motors is recalling some 2024 Cadillac Lyriq vehicles because a software bug in the vehicle cockpit unit that may cause the rearview camera screen to turn gray or go blank. When the vehicle is shifted into reverse, the lack of a camera image reduces driver visibility and fails to comply with federal safety standards for rear-view visibility. The remedy involves an over-the-air software update to the VCU, though dealers can also perform the flash manually under NHTSA Campaign ID 26V-082.













  • bendix announces dates and locations for Advanced Technology Training classes

    bendix announces dates and locations for Advanced Technology Training classes

    Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC kicks off its 2026 brake school sessions, hosting multi-day classes across the country from March to November.

    Bendix will host in-person and virtual education opportunities for fleet technicians, owner-operators, and others to enhance the skills necessary to help keep vehicles on the road and in safe operating condition.

    To address market demand, Bendix has expanded the availability of its two-day Bendix Advanced Technology Training class. This highly attended course rounds out the Bendix training schedule, which also includes the tried-and-true three-day Bendix Air Brake Training class.

    Where to Find a Training Session

    In-person opportunities on the 2026 calendar cover 11 states. They include 16 sessions of Bendix’s three-day Air Brake Training class – long recognized as setting the industry training standard – beginning March 31-April 2 in Fresno, California.

    Seven sessions of the two-day Bendix Advanced Technology Training program are scheduled: three at company headquarters in Avon, Ohio; two in Reno, Nevada; and two in Fairfield, Connecticut. The first takes place April 14-15 in Avon.

    Bendix has scheduled two sessions of its three-day virtual training class, with one scheduled on Eastern Time and the other on Mountain Time for the convenience of attendees in western North America.

    Registration is open for the complete schedule of both courses, shown at the end of this news release. A member of the Bendix Tech Training Team conducts every class. The training team is led by a Master-level, ASE-certified technical trainer.

    What’s on the Agenda

    Bendix’s three-day Air Brake Training class is tailored to both new and experienced technicians. It covers the description, operation, troubleshooting, and service elements for the total range of components found within dual air brake systems. Classroom topics include the fundamentals of compressed air; tactics for air system failure mode diagnosis and troubleshooting; and air brake system and foundation brake components, including air compressors, valves, foundation drum brakes, and air disc brakes. The class also provides an introduction to the Bendix GSBC (Global Scalable Brake Control) electronic braking system technology, as well as Bendix GSAT (Global Scalable Air Treatment).

    Bendix recommends that each participant complete the online air brake training at the company’s brake-school.com site before taking the in-person Air Brake Training class.

    The two-day Bendix Advanced Technology Training class picks up where the Air Brake Training class ends. It covers the operation and troubleshooting of advanced safety systems and software. Topics include:

    Antilock braking systems (ABS)

    • AutoVue Lane Departure Warning (LDW) System from Bendix CVS

    • Bendix® ESP Electronic Stability Program full-stability system

    • Bendix® Wingman Advanced™

    – A Collision Mitigation Technology

    • Bendix® Fusion, the company’s flagship driver assistance system family

    • SmarTire and SmarTire Trailer-Link™Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) by Bendix CVS

    • Bendix® GSBC® electronic braking system and Bendix GSAT

    The Advanced Technology Training program includes in-depth, hands-on maintenance instruction for Bendix® air disc brakes and electrical diagnostics.

    All registrants in the three-day Air Brake Training and two-day Bendix Advanced Technology Training courses may elect to take part in a written test administered at the close of each class. Bendix will grade the exam, and registrants earning a passing grade will receive a Tested and Passed certificate. Those who take the exam and don’t pass will receive a Certificate of Completion, as will registrants who elect not to participate in the optional testing.

    In-person Bendix training and the optional test are not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). It does not take the place of any instruction or certification exam administered by the DOT.

    Bendix does not certify technicians for work on its systems.

    How to Register

    Because of the quantity and complexity of the products covered, Bendix recommends that each student complete the three-day Air Brake Training course or, at a minimum, the online air brake training at brake-school.com before taking the Advanced Technology Training class.

    Per-person enrollment costs are $525 for Air Brake Training, $475 for Advanced Technology Training, and $425 for the virtual class. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis, and class size is limited. Register online at bendix.com or B2Bendix.com. For more information, call 1-800-AIR-BRAKE (1-800-247-2725).

    The three-day air brake training, set for Tuesday-Thursday, will be held: 

    • March 31-April 2, Fresno, Calif.
    • April 7-9, Avon, Ohio.
    • May 5-7, Indianapolis.
    • May 12-14, Huntersville, N.C.
    • May 12-14, Fort Wayne, Ind.
    • June 2-4, Reno, Nev.
    • June 9-11, Fairfield, Conn.
    • June 16-18, Avon, Ohio.
    • June 16-18, Thornton, Colo.
    • July 7-9, San Marcos, Calif.
    • July 14-16, virtual class, Eastern time.
    • July 21-23, Owosso, Mich.
    • July 28-30, Reno, Nev.
    • Sept. 15-17, Avon, Ohio.
    • Oct. 6-8, Bowling Green, Ky.
    • Oct. 6-8, Tolleson, Ariz.
    • Oct. 20-22, Oklahoma City.
    • Nov. 10-12, virtual class, Mountain time. 

    The advanced training will be held at these sites: 

    • April 14-15, Avon, Ohio.
    • June 15-16, Fairfield, Conn.
    • June 17-18, Fairfield, Conn.
    • June 23-24, Avon, Ohio.
    • June 23-24, Reno, Nev.
    • Aug. 11-12, Reno, Nev.
    • Sept. 29-30, Avon, Ohio. 
  • After strong 2025, Christian Brothers Automotive plans even more in 2026

    After strong 2025, Christian Brothers Automotive plans even more in 2026

     Christian Brothers Automotive (CBA), a leading automotive repair franchise, recently announced it capped off 2025 with “substantial development momentum, system growth, and national recognition, reinforcing its position as a trusted, people-first brand in the automotive repair industry.”

    A statement from the company said this performance positions the it for continued growth in 2026.

    In 2025, CBA opened 24 new shops, including 14 in new markets such as Odessa, Texas; Clarksville, Tennessee; Marietta, Georgia; Hayden, Idaho; and Otsego, Minnesota, and executed 52 letters of intent to support future expansion.

    Additionally, agreements in Las Vegas and Reno will introduce the brand to Nevada as its 32nd state once opened. Of the 24 new locations opened, 15 were developed by first-time franchisees to the system, while 17 existing markets transitioned to new ownership.

    “We’re proud of the steady, intentional growth we achieved in 2025,” said Donnie Carr, president and CEO of the Houston-based company. “From welcoming new franchisees and expanding into future markets to investing in our people and being recognized by our industry, this year reinforced who we are and where we’re headed.”

    Beyond development, 2025 marked a strong year for industry recognition and internal investment. CBA ranked No. 74 on Entrepreneur’s 2025 Top Franchises for Veterans list and No. 92 on Franchise Times’ Top 400. Crucially, CBA ranked #1 in Customer Satisfaction among Aftermarket Full-Service Maintenance and Repair Providers by J.D. Power for the sixth time in a row, remaining the only aftermarket automotive repair brand to top the category since its inception. The brand also advanced its commitment to workforce development with the announcement of a $12 million Technology & Training Center in Katy, Texas, set to open in early 2027.

    Looking ahead to 2026, CBA said it is prioritizing strategic development in several key territories, including New Berlin, Wisconsin; Mechanicsville, Virginia; Derby, Kansas; Shoreview, Minnesota; Blaine, Minnesota; Winterville, North Carolina; and Rincon, Georgia, with the continued mission to expand into existing and new markets as well as into its 31st state when the Cheyenne, Wyoming location opens this summer. The brand is also advancing its shop air-conditioning initiative, with over 160 locations already retrofitted, further enhancing the guest experience.

    Founded in Mission Bend, Texas, in 1982, Christian Brothers Automotive has expanded to more than 330 locations across 30 states.

  • Institute releases new lift guidelines

    Institute releases new lift guidelines

    Lift safety watchdog Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) has released its 2026 Lifting Points Guide, Vehicle Lifting Points for Frame Engaging Lifts.

    Produced annually by MOTOR Information Systems exclusively for ALI, the Lifting Points Guide includes OEM-recommended lifting points for most cars, SUVs, vans and light trucks sold in the United States and Canada from 2000 through 2026.

    Lifting points, also called “lift points,” “jack points” or “jacking points,” are the locations on a vehicle where the OEM has instructed lift adapters should be placed to raise and support a vehicle off the ground, according to the organization. Most lifting points aren’t marked on the vehicle, and they may change from model year to model year. The ALI Lifting Points Guide brings together lifting points from across manufacturers in one convenient quick-reference resource.

    “When you’re using a two-post lift or another frame-engaging lift, your safety depends on properly picking up the vehicle,” says R.W. “Bob” O’Gorman, ALI president. “That means using the right lift with the appropriate adapters positioned as directed by the vehicle manufacturer. Our Lifting Point Guide illustrates where to place the adapters and includes any additional guidance provided by the OEM for specific vehicles.”

    The ALI Lifting Points Guide is updated annually to reflect the latest vehicle specs. Lifting points are shown in more than 250 undercarriage images. Information in the latest edition supersedes any printed in earlier issues, as it may have changed. Critical updates made between editions can be found in the ALI Newsroom at autolift.org. The ALI Lifting Points Guide also includes several pages of safe lifting suggestions.

    The guide is available in print or digital formats. A combo package of both is also available. Each digital purchase provides online access on up to three devices, with no third-party software required. The digital version offers immediate availability, search functionality, and customization options including magnification.

    Professional shops are required to make vehicle lifting points information available to technicians under ANSI/ALI ALOIM (current edition), the industry safety standard governing lift operation, inspection and maintenance. This requirement is met by providing technicians with access to ALI’s Vehicle Lifting Points for Frame Engaging Lifts. Anyone using a lift at home, at the track or elsewhere may also protect themselves by using the Lifting Points Guide.

    Learn more and order at autolift.org/shop/.

  • Cummins announces lineup of training sessions; registration opens

    Cummins announces lineup of training sessions; registration opens

    Cummins has unveiled its 2026 lineup of free, in-person aftermarket parts training sessions to help technicians across North America learn about the maintenance and repair of heavy-duty commercial vehicle brake systems – including both cam and air disc brakes.

    Running from March through October, the program is open to the public and offers 23 dates at 29 locations across the U.S. and Canada, making it easier for technicians to access hands-on training close to home, at no cost.

    “Our goal is to give technicians the confidence to maximize vehicle uptime, reduce violations and ensure safe, efficient operations,” said Joe Baumer, Aftermarket Training Manager – Cummins Drivetrain and Braking Systems. “These sessions dive into critical topics such as brake adjustment, brake balance, automatic slack adjusters, reduced stopping distance, preventive maintenance, inspection best practices and advanced diagnostics.”

    In addition to in-person sessions, Cummins offers BullPen – a free online training portal with 24/7 access to on-demand courses covering Meritor products, including clutches, drivelines, drive and steer axles, suspension, wheel ends and brakes. This platform enables technicians to learn at their own pace while giving managers tools to track progress and stay ahead of evolving technologies.

    Registration for in-person training sessions is now open, and seats are limited, so early sign-up is encouraged. For additional learning resources, explore BullPen, where you’ll find free, on-demand training courses.

  • Snap-on’s John Wolf new president of ASE

    Snap-on’s John Wolf new president of ASE

    The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) recently announced its officers and board members for the upcoming year.

    The new chair of the board of directors is John Wolf, president, Snap-on Business Solutions and Tom Palermo, general manager, Preferred Automotive Specialists is vice chair.

    John Hanighen, president and CEO at Cloyes Manufacturing and Gary Uyematsu, national technical training manager at BMW of North America are serving as treasurer and secretary, respectively.

    Last year’s chair, Jason Rainey, vice president, NAPA AutoCare/AAA, is now serving as past chair.

    Six new governors are serving on the ASE board of governors. They include:

    • Aaron Charbonneau of General Motors
    • Chris Charton of Toyota
    • Brent Franks of North Texas Automotive Dealers Association
    • Mike McSorley of Goodyear
    • Gerry Mead of TravelCenters of America
    • Jake Sorenson of McNeil’s Auto Repair

    “On behalf of the ASE team, I look forward to collaborating closely with the new officers and board members whose knowledge and experience will be invaluable to ASE,” said Dave Johnson, ASE president and CEO. “Together, we will continue to reinforce ASE’s leadership in the transportation industry and explore new ways to best serve technicians, service providers and vehicle owners.”

  • Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week opens in Texas next week

    Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week opens in Texas next week

    Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) 2026 opens Jan. 19 at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevive, Texas, bringing together nearly 3,000 professionals.

    With a sold-out product expo and fully booked one-on-one business meetings, the event serves as the launch for 2026 planning, where suppliers and distributors address strategic priorities like regulatory shifts, labor constraints, AI and technology changes, according to a statement from the event.

    This year’s theme, Eyes on the Road, underscores the need for precision, execution and readiness. From real-time forecasting and supplier negotiations to the use of AI in predictive maintenance and data-driven decision making, the week’s agenda helps companies and their leaders navigate 2026 with focus and operational clarity.

    “HDAW brings the entire aftermarket together in a way that rarely happens during the year,” said Matt Wolfe, president, Americas at SAF-HOLLAND and HDAW’26 supplier co-chair. “For suppliers, it’s an opportunity to hear directly from distributors about shifting demand, see how new technologies are being evaluated, and understand where resources will be needed first. The discussions around diagnostics, data flow and emerging AI tools are more grounded and actionable than ever, which helps all of us plan with greater accuracy.”

    HDAW’26 Highlights include:

    • Product Expo (Jan. 20–22): The Product Expo features more than 300 suppliers across 143,000 square feet of exhibit space, offering distributors a concentrated look at innovative products, components, and technologies influencing purchasing and service decisions in 2026.
    • One-on-One Business Meetings (Jan. 20–22): This fully booked program matches distributors to the suppliers they want to see for pre-scheduled, private discussions – helping kickstart orders for the year and coordinate decision-making across the industry.
    • Keynote: “The Future of AI in Heavy Duty” (Tuesday, Jan. 20): AI expert Noelle Russell will explore how applied and generative AI are being used in diagnostics, operations, forecasting and workforce strategy, with a focus on practical use cases for the aftermarket.
    • Industry Recognition (Tuesday, Jan. 20): The Opening General Session will recognize industry achievement with the annual Distributor of the Year Award, Hall of Fame induction and Women in Leadership Award.
    • Education and Training (Wednesday, Jan. 21): Education sessions and supplier-led training highlight emerging technologies and industry trends through the lens of this year’s theme, Eyes on the Road. The industry will come together on Wednesday morning to hear David Garza, Founder and CEO of COMPASS Human Capital Advisors, lead a session on “Shifting to a Higher Gear with Our People: Three Strategic Levers to Prepare for Your Next Business Crossroad.”
    • Wild West Wednesday Reception (Jan. 21): To celebrate a successful HDAW’26, attendees are invited to a free evening reception at the Gaylord Texan, where they can reconnect with peers, discuss priorities emerging from the program, and continue conversations initiated during the event. Organizers expect a record turnout for this year’s Wednesday evening reception.

    “There’s real value in being able to talk strategy face to face, especially when market signals are moving fast,” said Nick Seidel, vice president of Action Truck Parts and HDAW’26 distributor co-chair. “HDAW gives distributors a clearer read on how suppliers are approaching product support, pricing and demand shifts. Those conversations give us a sharper view of market conditions and support decisions grounded in what’s actually happening.”

    View the full agenda and register.

  • Ford, Audi & Porsche issue recalls

    Ford, Audi & Porsche issue recalls

    The most recent recalls include:

    Ford 2019 Expedition

    Reason: Out of Park warning message and chime too short. If the driver exits the vehicle without the transmission being shifted into park, unintended vehicle movement may result, increasing the risk of injury.

    NHTSA ID Number: 25V886000

    Potential Number of Units Affected: 890

    Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Expedition vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 20V263. The “Transmission Not In Park” warning message and associated chime duration are shorter than intended.

    Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument cluster panel software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Jan. 30. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 25C71. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning Jan. 15.

    Nine Models of Audis

    Reason: Seat belt retractor may fail to secure child seat. An improperly secured child seat can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

    NHTSA ID Number: 25V899000

    Potential Number of Units Affected: 27,768 Included are 2025 A6, A6 SPORTBACK E-TRON, Q6 E-TRON, Q6 SPORTBACK E-TRON, S5, S6 SPORTBACK E-TRON, SQ6 E-TRON, SQ6 SPORTBACK E-TRON.

    Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2025 SQ6 E-Tron, SQ6 Sportback E-Tron, Q6 Sportback E-Tron, A6, A5, A6 Sportback E-Tron, Q6 E-Tron, S5, and S6 Sportback E-Tron vehicles. The automatic locking retractor may fail to engage when a child seat is installed using the seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208, “Occupant Crash Protection” and 209, “Seat Belt Assemblies.”

    Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the right and left rear seat belt assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Feb. 17. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi’s number for this recall is 69D8. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on Dec. 23.

    Porsche

    Reason: Rearview camera may not display. A rearview image that does not display properly reduces the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

    NHTSA ID Number: 25V896000

    Manufacturer Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

    Components BACK OVER PREVENTION

    Potential Number of Units Affected: 173,538. 911, Cayenne, Cayenne E-Hybrid, Panamera, Panamera E-Hybrid, Taycan

    Summary: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2019-2025 Cayenne, Cayenne E-Hybrid, 2020-2025 911, Taycan, 2024-2025 Panamera, and 2025 Panamera E-Hybrid vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, “Rear Visibility.”

    Remedy: Dealers will update the driver assistance software, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed Feb. 16. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche’s number for this recall is ASB2. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning Jan. 19.

  • 15 companies joined VIPAR Heavy Duty during 2025

    15 companies joined VIPAR Heavy Duty during 2025

    The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies brought in 15 new companies representing 62 new locations to the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks in 2025.

    Together, these businesses range from multigenerational family-owned operations to fast-rising newcomers and, for the first time, international distributors in Central America.

    “These distributors bring an incredible range of experience, capabilities, and regional expertise,” said Chris Baer, president and CEO of VIPAR Heavy Duty. “From established shops with decades of history to innovative businesses breaking new ground, what unites them is a clear vision for the future and the drive to use our network to fuel their success. That shared commitment strengthens our entire organization.”

    New VIPAR Heavy Duty distributors added in 2025 include:

    Truck Depot Corporation
    30 Locations across Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, and El Salvador
    Truck Depot marks a historic milestone as the first Central American distributor to join VIPAR Heavy Duty. Truck Depot’s staff of more than 500 employees operate a mix of sales channels including warehouses, retail stores, service shops, mobile assistance, and e-commerce. They distribute spare parts and accessories for all mass cargo and passenger transportation types and offer large inventories, strong brands, and professional staffing. 

    Universal Truck Service LLC
    Roseville and New Brighton, Minnesota
    Universal Truck Service represents three generations of family leadership, with over 90 employees serving the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro area. The company operates 50 service bays, performing truck and trailer repair, engine and transmission work, mobile repair, tanker maintenance, Cummins warranty repairs, hydraulic hose services, and parts delivery within a 60-mile radius.

    Seagull Diesel Parts Inc.
    Salt Lake City, Utah
    Founded by Jimmy Jacketta in 2010, Seagull Diesel Parts offers transmission and driveline service, engine diagnostics and repair, electrical troubleshooting, welding, radiator and cooling system service, vehicle inspections, frame and alignment work, DPF filter cleaning and replacement, and air conditioning service. 

    Tampa Spring Company
    Tampa, Bradenton, Lakeland, and Ocala, Florida
    Tampa Spring is a family owned and operated business serving customers since 1927. Owned by John Messina, Tampa Spring offers a comprehensive range of truck and heavy duty vehicle repair parts, including a full line of automotive leaf springs, helper springs, air springs, and coil springs. They sell to and service both wholesale and retail customers with 60 employees, four outside sales representatives, 10 delivery vehicles, and 58 service bays. 

    RENOSA (Repuestos Noé, S.A. de C.V.)
    San Salvador, Ilopango, Lourdes Colón, and Santa Ana California, El Salvador
    RENOSA strengthened VIPAR Heavy Duty’s presence in Central America and are a strong addition with numerous supplier relationships. The company was founded in 1990 and is owned by Rigoberto Martínez. He leads more than 100 employees who provide service to the heavy and semi-heavy transport systems in El Salvador, including differential, suspension, transmission, and brake system components as well as filtration systems and engine repairs. 

    Childers Auto & Truck Parts Inc.
    Pikeville and Mt. Sterling, Kentucky
    Founded in 2023 by Ken and Allison Childers, Childers Auto and Truck Parts is a family-owned business that has emerged as a strong presence in the heavy-duty parts and service market. The company supports fleets, owner-operators, municipalities, and off-highway customers with truck and trailer parts, full-service repair, diagnostics, and critical support services. 

    Super Industrial SRL
    Santo Domingo, Bávaro, Haina, and Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic
    Super Industrial SRL (La Casa del Camionero), owned by Carolina Mederos, is a family company that was established in 1975 for the reconstruction of clutches, brakes, radiators and rectification of drums, discs and steering wheels for trucks. In 1986, they opened their first store for the sale of all types of original and replacement parts for trucks, buses, and trailers of North American manufacture. Today, their reconstruction workshop and branch locations provide service and parts for the entire island.

    New Power Heavy Duty Distributors in 2025 include:

    NorthWest Bearing & Industrial Supply Co. Inc.
    Woodward and El Reno, Oklahoma
    NorthWest Bearing & Industrial Supply has been serving the gas compression, agricultural, and farming industries in western Oklahoma since 1991. Owned by Bob and Denise Mitchell, the company is a source for industrial bearings, filters, and hydraulic components. They operate a 15,000-square-foot facility in Woodward and a 2,400-square-foot branch in El Reno. Its team of 20 experienced professionals supports sales, purchasing, warehousing, delivery, accounting, and a fleet of eight delivery vehicles.

    RBR Truck Parts LLC
    Hutchins, Denton, Duncanville, and Fort Worth, Texas
    Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts is a heavy-duty aftermarket parts distributor serving owner-operators, fleets, service centers, and municipal accounts in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Its Hutchins location is strategically located near Interstate 45, close to major ports, rail yards, and warehouse hubs that support the region’s trucking industry. RBR stocks a broad range of engine, suspension, brake, wheel and tire, filter, fluid, and accessory products.

    Milian Truck Center
    Tampa and Medley, Florida
    Established in 2018 by Osman Lleo, Milian Truck Center is a family-owned distributor with three locations, including two in Tampa, and one of Florida’s key regional transportation hubs and home to the state’s largest shipping port. The company employs 45 people, operates four delivery vehicles, and manages 60,000 square feet of warehouse space, supplying aftermarket truck parts to fleets and owner-operators. 

    Knox Trailers Inc. / DBA KP Services Truck and Trailer Parts
    Knoxville and Crossville, Tennessee
    Founded in 1993 by Steve Fultz and Tommy Jones, Knox Trailers offers heavy-duty truck and trailer parts, repair, and refurbishing services. Operating out of a 32,000-square-foot Knoxville facility and a new 4,800-square-foot warehouse and showroom in Crossville, the company provides 14 service bays, a paint booth, and a dedicated fleet of delivery and service trucks to meet customer needs quickly and reliably.

    West Ridge Heavy Duty Parts LLC
    Logan, Utah
    Established in October of 2023, West Ridge Heavy Duty Parts is a fast-growing, service-driven company founded by Jared Strawn and Russel Guymon. They offer a full range of heavy-duty truck and trailer parts and services, including flywheel resurfacing, custom driveline and hydraulic hose fabrication, U-bolts, and welding services. Their customer base includes a diverse mix of on-highway fleets, owner-operators, agriculture, and mining operations across class 5 through 8 vehicles.  

    Accurate Alignment and Frame Service Inc.
    Appleton, Wisconsin
    Accurate Alignment and Frame Service has been a family-owned business in the northeastern Wisconsin market for the past 70 years. Owned by Mark and Dennis Broehm, they offer heavy-duty truck and trailer parts, shop supplies, tools and equipment, and extensive repair capabilities. With 24 service bays, 34,000 square feet of shop space, and a 14,000 square foot warehouse, the company supports fleets, municipalities, independent service facilities, and owner-operators.

    A & L Systems NexGen LLC
    Redford, Michigan
    A & L Systems NexGen offers a full range of heavy duty truck parts and specializes in the engineering and installation of auto-lubrication systems for both on- and off-road equipment. They service fleets, municipalities, independent service facilities and owner-operators in the Detroit area from their 6,500 square foot warehouse and showroom. Originally established in 1980, the business was purchased in 2024 and is owned by Ron Meehan. 

    Brakes & Wheels Inc./Gordo Bros.
    Odessa, Texas
    Brakes and Wheels distributes a full line of heavy duty parts, operates a brake reline shop, repairs utility trailers and installs toolboxes, brush guards, head-ache racks, and other accessories for the oil field customers they service. They serve independent owner-operators, local fleets, oil field service companies, and city and county service centers out of a 20,000 square foot facility located on 2 acres. The business was started by Connie and Ray Quiroz in 1975 and is owned today by Connie and sons Rene and Gilbert.

  • New auto service tech program added at Maryland community college

    New auto service tech program added at Maryland community college

    The Workforce Solutions and Continuing Education Division at Hagerstown Community College is offering a new Automotive Service Technician program starting in January, and applications are open.

    The first course in the four-course program will be offered Jan. 26 to March 9, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., on Monday and Wednesdays. The program will take place at the new D.M. Bowman Family Workforce Training Center on Northern Avenue in Hagerstown, which opened in June.

    The Maryland college said the Automotive Service Technician program provides students with the entry-level skills required to start a career in automotive repair and maintenance. Beginning in January and concluding near the end of the summer, the 200-hour program is delivered through an intensive, hands-on lab approach, allowing students to concentrate on practical skills, with supplemental online curriculum.

    Students who complete this program will be eligible to sit for a variety of Automotive Service Excellence exams.

    “We are excited to launch the auto tech program, which will provide another opportunity for students searching for a career pathway, and will assist local dealerships in addressing staffing challenges,” said Jack Drooger, senior program manager for Workforce Training at HCC.

    Limited scholarships are available. To find more information on the program and register, call 240-500-2236 or visit www.hagerstowncc.edu/godrive.