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Tag: Newsletter 3rd Article

  • ASE offers cam and crank shaft webinar

    ASE offers cam and crank shaft webinar

    The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is hosting a free webinar on Tuesday, March 31 at 4 p.m. ET entitled “Demystifying Cam & Crank Sensor Diagnostics & Tips.”

    Philip Austin with Niterra/NGK Pro Training will cover camshaft and crankshaft sensor diagnostics, moving quickly from sensor fundamentals to practical waveform analysis. The session aims to help technicians spot red flags in domestic and import applications without getting lost in the weeds.

    Participants will receive a certificate of attendance for the live session. Those who are not sure if they can attend are encouraged to register as they will receive a follow-up email with details on how to attend a recorded session, if available. Access to recorded sessions is reserved for those who register for the live event. 

    For more information or to register, click here.

  • New Diesel Laptop Master Series adds information to diagnostic tools

    New Diesel Laptop Master Series adds information to diagnostic tools

    Diesel Laptops recently announced the launch of its new Master Series of diagnostic solutions, giving commercial truck and off-highway customers a faster, simpler way to diagnose equipment, find the right repair information, and get jobs done.

    The new Master Series includes Truck Master, Equipment Master, and Truck & Equipment Master that are built to help customers diagnose problems faster, repair equipment more accurately, and reduce costly downtime. Unlike standalone scan tools, the Master Series is designed to connect diagnostics with the tools technicians actually need to finish the job: repair information, parts lookup, technical support, and training.

    “With the Master Series, we’re making it easier than ever for customers to choose the right solution for the way they work,” said Tyler Robertson, founder & CEO of Diesel Laptops. “This launch is about more than diagnostics. It’s about giving technicians, shops, and fleets a complete repair ecosystem that helps them move faster, fix more, and keep equipment on the road. In short, a complete solution.”

    This launch also introduces two new license options:

    • Solo Licenses for individual technicians and owner-operators who need powerful diagnostics without the extra overhead
    • Shop Licenses for repair businesses that need a scalable solution for multiple technicians, bays, and workflows

    The new structure gives customers a more intuitive way to buy into the Diesel Laptops platform whether they need a solution for one technician or an entire shop. It also reflects the company’s broader shift toward subscription-based offerings that lowers up-front cost barriers and makes it easier for customers to access the same core hardware, software, and services in a more flexible model.

    The integrated ecosystem now includes fault code to part number and pricing within 60 seconds, VIN-to-parts, and seamless vehicle data syncing with Diesel Health. Because the system is designed as a native solution, there is no need for additional cables or complex configurations.

    These solutions will be shipping starting March 30.

    For more information about the new Diesel Laptops Master Series, visit www.DieselLaptops.com.

  • Dobbs adds 2 Wisconsin businesses; now has 19 locations in the state

    Dobbs adds 2 Wisconsin businesses; now has 19 locations in the state

    Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers recently announced the acquisitions of Wisconsin-based Schierl Tire & Auto Service and two Al Huss Auto locations.

    Founded as a family-owned and operated business in 1956, Schierl Tire has eight locations across northeast Wisconsin and provides comprehensive automotive maintenance and repair services, along with heavy truck and agricultural tire services. The recent acquisitions of Schierl Tire, Al Huss Auto and Matthews Tire mark an exciting chapter for Dobbs, which now has 19 locations in the Wisconsin market.

    “With the acquisition of the Schierl Tire brand, Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers continues our expansion in the Wisconsin market. We’re excited to build on our reputation for exceptional service and quality products, while continuing to invest in training, state-of-the-art equipment, and our valued team members to further elevate the customer experience,” said Dustin Dobbs.

    “We believe Dobbs is the perfect partner to continue the Schierl Tire legacy of exceptional customer service and community commitment,” said William Schierl, Co – CEO of Team Schierl Companies.“Continued investment in their people and operations ensures our customers will continue to receive the highest level of care.”

    The Schierl Tire & Auto Centers acquisition includes seven Schierl Tire and one Hartje Tire location in Wisconsin. Additionally, all retail employees will be retained in the transaction.

    This transaction marks another milestone in Dobbs’ growth plans. Dobbs recently opened six new Greenfield locations in Missouri and 16 additional strategically redeveloped sites in Ohio, Missouri, Illinois and Wisconsin. They are set to open 18 more redeveloped sites in early 2026, taking Dobbs to over 152 locations.

    Since opening its first store in 1976 in Yorkshire Plaza in St. Louis, Missouri, Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers has grown with recent acquisitions, including Longview, Texas-based Automotive Super Center (ASC), Columbia, Missouri-based Custom Complete Automotive, and Cleveland, Ohio-based Conrad’s Tire Express & Car Care.

    Today, Dobbs employs more than 1,200 associates across 8 states. Since its inception, the company has differentiated itself as a“one-stop-shop” for tires and service and offers to its loyal customer base a variety of name-brand tires, a diverse range of automotive services, and market-leading customer service.

    Dobbs provides complete tire service, featuring major brands, including Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental, Pirelli, Cooper, BFGoodrich, Sumitomo, Kelly, and Crosswind tires. Dobbs provides complete automotive services for all types of vehicles, including gas, hybrid, and electric vehicles and across all vehicle component areas, specializing in routine and preventative maintenance as well as complex diagnostic and engine repairs.

  • 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.