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Tag: Newsletter 4th Article

  • NY automotive instructor leads new slate of ASE Education Foundation officers

    NY automotive instructor leads new slate of ASE Education Foundation officers

    The ASE Education Foundation has announced its new officers and board members for 2026.

    The foundations new officers are:

    • Chair Brian LaCroix, automotive instructor at Capital Region BOCES Career and Tech School in Albany, New York
    • Vice chair Jim Sennett, manager of automotive repair programs for the American Automobile Association (AAA)
    • Treasurer Lisa Vassallo, technical training operations manager at BMW of North America
    • Secretary Drew Jablonowski, director of technical education, field support and customer experience at DRiV Incorporated
    • Past chair is Dwayne Myers, president and CEO of Dynamic Automotive

    Eight new individuals have joined the board in 2026 including: Kristin Conte of Ford Motor Company, Matt Crumpton of NAPA Auto Care, Jeff Gaskill of Snap-on Tools, Kyle Grisham of Christian Brothers Automotive, Brent Kindred of Wisconsin Automobile and Truck Dealers Association Foundation, Jared Monroe of Columbia Area Career Center in Columbia, Missouri, Fred Mora of Gulf States Toyota and Jeff Peevy of I-CAR.

    Reelected to an additional term on the board are Jenny Kovacs of C. Harper Ford, Joe Oleson of FedEx Freight and Jared Ricart of Ricart
    Automotive.

    “On behalf of the ASE Education Foundation, I extend our gratitude to these officers and board members for their generous commitment of time and expertise,” said Mike Coley, president of the ASE Education Foundation. “Their knowledge will play a crucial role as we confront the technician shortage and pursue important initiatives in the coming year. We are grateful to all foundation board members, past and present, for their dedication and steadfast support of the ASE Education Foundation and the future of the transportation industry.”

  • PACCAR Parts offers TRP Diagnostic Pro for all makes, models of trucks

    PACCAR Parts offers TRP Diagnostic Pro for all makes, models of trucks

    PACCAR Parts recently announced the launch of the TRP Diagnostic Pro for all makes and models of commercial trucks across the U.S. and Canada. This new tool is built for service shop professionals, fleets, and technicians who desire expedited diagnostic results.

    The TRP Diagnostic Pro is preloaded with all-makes diagnostic software that allows service providers to efficiently perform routine maintenance and repairs. Additionally, the tool is a means to enhance all-makes service capabilities and expand parts-related opportunities at dealerships.

    The TRP Diagnostic Pro equips users with access to fault codes, wiring diagrams, and detailed step-by-step instructions that streamline the diagnostic and repair process. Key features including live data, forced regeneration, bi-directional testing, and system resets allow technicians to achieve faster repair times, reduce customer downtime, and complete more jobs in less time.

    The TRP Diagnostic Pro is available in two kit variations. The first option provides diagnostic software loaded onto a durable laptop with a rugged weather-resistant carrying case. The second kit option features just diagnostic software, intended for users who already own compatible hardware to maximize their existing investments.

    Both kit options include a Diesel Decoder, which enables compatible Bluetooth devices to serve as a powerful all-makes heavy duty diagnostic tool. Users simply connect the device to any make or model of truck to view and clear fault codes, receive detailed repair information, and download vehicle health reports.

    Customer service and support for the TRP Diagnostic Pro will be provided by Diesel Laptops, a provider of diesel diagnostic software, hardware and training for commercial trucks and off-highway vehicles.

    “The TRP Diagnostic Pro complements our all-makes product line and is designed to empower service professionals and truck owners to accelerate the diagnostic and repair process,” said Mike Sharpe, PACCAR Parts Director of TRP. “With flexible kit options and convenient integration with existing hardware, the TRP Diagnostic Pro delivers value and efficiency, helping reduce downtime and get trucks back on the road faster.”

    The kits can be purchased from Kenworth and Peterbilt dealers, as well as TRP stores and Online Parts Counter.

  • New from Milwaukee: 366-piece master mechanic hand tool set in Packout drawers

    New from Milwaukee: 366-piece master mechanic hand tool set in Packout drawers

    Milwaukee has introduced a collection of hand tools, wrenches and ratchets in its signature Packout tool box system. The 366-piece set includes:

    • 242-piece set with 1/4”, 3/8”, & 1/2” drive metric and SAE ratchet and socket set in a four-drawer tool box
    • 60-piece metric and SAE combination wrench set with a four-drawer tool box
    • 64-piece hand tool set with four-drawer tool box
    • Packout dolly

    The set is available online for $3,999.99.

  • Kentucky tech college’s diesel program receives AED accreditation renewal

    Kentucky tech college’s diesel program receives AED accreditation renewal

    Elizabethtown Community and Technical College’s diesel technology program has maintained AED Foundation Accreditation for its construction equipment repair and agriculture equipment repair pathways.

    First earning the accreditation five years ago, the program continues to meet the rigorous industry-specific national standards and fully prepare students to succeed in high-demand equipment service careers, according to a statem,ent from the college based in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.

    “We are pleased that Elizabethtown Community and Technical College continues to demonstrate its commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement through the process of accreditation,” said AED Foundation President Brian McGuire. “Your accreditation signifies to equipment industry stakeholders that your school continues to meet rigorous industry-specific national equipment technical standards. It further signifies to current and prospective students that your program provides the best in diesel-equipment technical education as defined by the industry it serves.”

    The AEDF is the non-profit foundation for the heavy equipment industry and is the sister organization to Associated Equipment Distributors, the international trade association for equipment distributors, manufacturers, and service providers. 

    Jay Rodes, a member of the program’s advisory board and president of Wilson Equipment Company, said reaccreditation speaks directly to the quality and consistency of ECTC’s diesel technology program.

    “Your work developing the next generation of diesel technicians makes a real difference, not just for our industry, but for every employer who depends on skilled, reliable people coming out of your school. We see the impact firsthand, and we appreciate the effort, standards and pride … instructors put into the program,” Rodes said.

    To date, the AEDF has accredited 103 college programs. Four of those programs are in Kentucky, with two at ECTC and two at Ashland Community and Technical College.

    “Our entire faculty is thankful for the support of the AED Foundation and our employer partners, which helps us to continuously improve our program and make a greater impact for students,” said ECTC Diesel Technology Program Coordinator Joe Valora. “Agriculture and construction equipment repair are incredible industries, and we are very proud that our graduates earn good wages in careers they truly enjoy.”

    Students completing an accredited program earn a certificate and the title of AEDF Certified Technician, signaling that they have met the industry’s highest training expectations.

    To learn more about ECTC’s diesel technology program, visit ectc.us/diesel or call 270-769-2371.

    Enrollment is now underway for classes that begin Jan. 12.

  • Ram issues recall for airbag problem

    Ram issues recall for airbag problem

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced a recall of certain Ram vehicles due to a safety risk with the airbag inflators,.

    Included in the recall are certain:

    • 2019 Ram 1500 Classic
    • Ram 3500
    • 2019 to 2020 Ram 2500 trucks

    A total of 1,879 vehicles are included in the recall

    The defect could cause the right and left side curtain airbag inflators to rupture, sending sharp metal fragments flying in the cabin.

    Owners are excepted to be notified beginning Thursday.

    Dealers will replace one or both side curtain airbags as needed.

  • Experts say not to worry, internal combustion engines not disappearing any time soon

    Experts say not to worry, internal combustion engines not disappearing any time soon

    Here are some takeaways from a recent webinar hosted by the editors of SAE’s Truck & Off-Highway Engineering:

    • Internal combustion engines are not going away any time soon
    • They will continue to be the prime power for key sectors of the global economy
    • Future engine designs will be heavily influenced by AI and the ecosystem of engine operation
    • New combustion strategies will deliver more efficiency and lower emissions while hybrid technology and renewable fuels will be a substantial influence

    These are the key conclusions made by several experts during a discussion in the Engine Technology Forum during the “Engine Design for the Next 20 Years”.

    Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Engine Technology Forum was an invited panelist along with Venu Gupta, engine product strategy planner at John Deere and Mihai Dorobantu, Ph.D., director of Technology, Planning, and Government Affairs for Eaton. The webinar is now available on-demand.  

    “Over the next 20 years, advanced engine technology must continue to evolve as it is expected to remain the prime mover for key sectors of the economy,” said Schaeffer. “It will be largely influenced by artificial intelligence both in the design of the engine and in managing the task and operations of the engine within the ecosystem that it operates, that will likely include autonomous operations. We see this in some forms today, particularly in the construction sector with connected jobsites and machines feeding vast amounts of data to enable real time decision making and optimization.

    “In looking to the future, engine design will build on past progress in virtually eliminating emissions and making steady gains in engine efficiency. We can expect continued incremental improvements in efficiency through both existing and new technologies.”

    Trends of engine downsizing and improving power density as well as the use of technologies like cylinder deactivation, start/stop technology, and other strategies were discussed.

    “We expect future designs to reflect greater optimization of the engine to fit the task, aided by energy storage and electric motor assist to cover infrequent peak power requirements. We are also already seeing expanding use of new combustion strategies where gasoline engine designs mimic diesel engines as a means to achieve diesel-like efficiency but with fewer emissions,” said Schaeffer.   

    “Fuel will play a key part in influencing future engine design, with more blends of renewable fuels and other fuels like hydrogen becoming available. Future heavy-duty engine design will also continue to incorporate circular economy principles enabling their remanufacturing and associated savings in energy and raw materials. New engine design software tools will greatly facilitate this feature.

    “Finally, while engine designs have evolved substantially, the policies that govern them, such as emissions standards, have not. New paradigms must be considered; perhaps ones that focus on environmental performance of tasks and work-related activity rather than a continued singular focus on individual engine performance. Regulatory approaches should be updated to reward integration of engine-based strategies like hybrids in off-road machines that are only captured today in the on-road vehicle certification process.”

  • Almost half of cars on the road overdue for major service

    Almost half of cars on the road overdue for major service

    A recent survey by CARFAX has found that nearly half of all drivers are behind on at least one major service. CARFAX data found that roughly 41% of vehicles nationwide are overdue for some critical maintenance work.

    According to CARFAX, these “major services” include:

    • Brakes: Brake line and rotor inspections and replacements
    • Steerinng: Vehicle suspension and steering components inspection
    • Drivetrain: Transmission fluid draining and refilling
    • Engine: Coolant flush to keep the vehicle operating at a safe temperature
    • Fuel efficiency/Air onditioning: Replacement of engine air and cabin air filters

    This means that millions of vehicles may not be truly road-ready, posing a risk during peak holiday travel. On top of that, CARFAX data shows that almost 30% of cars are behind on tire rotations and nearly 20% are behind on oil changes.

    “Taking care of your vehicle pays off in both the short and long term,” said Paul Nadjarian, CARFAX’s chief product officer. “A well-maintained car lasts longer, holds its value, and costs less to own.”

  • Four State Trucks acquires East Coast Truck Parts, expands footprint

    Four State Trucks acquires East Coast Truck Parts, expands footprint

    Joplin, Missouri-based Four State Trucks earlier this month announced the acquisition of East Coast Truck Parts, a heavy-duty truck parts supplier based in Newark, New Jersey.

    Terms of the deal were nat made public.

    East Coast Truck Parts supplies much of the East Coast and has stores in Portsmouth and Manassas, Virginia.

    “This is an exciting step forward for both our companies and all of our customers,” said Bryan Martin, president of 4 State Trucks. “By combining our inventories, industry knowledge, experience and logistics networks, we’ll be poised to deliver faster shipping, a wider selection of products and services and even stronger customer support across the East Coast.”

    As a result of the acquisition, customers can expect:

    • A larger footprint reaching from the Midwest through the entire East Coast corridor.
    • Enhanced distribution capabilities and strategic reductions in delivery times.
    • Expanded inventory of aftermarket repair parts, chrome, accessories and collision repair parts for all major medium and heavy duty makes and models.
    • Shared technology, web services and customer service resources will provide consistent, reliable support nationwide

    “Teaming Up with 4 State Trucks allows us to continue to offer our past customers the next level service they deserve,” said Mike Kane, owner of East Coast Truck Parts. “Our customers will benefit immediately from greater product depth, parts availability, quick shipping, and access to one of the industry’s strongest parts networks.”

    The two companies will operate under the Four State Trucks brand, with plans to integrate all systems immediately.

    Four State Trucks is home to the biannual Guilty By Association Truck Show and well known for its Chrome Shop Mafia, which was featured in the Trick My Truck television show.

  • PA shop wins Bosch Module Shop of the Year Award

    PA shop wins Bosch Module Shop of the Year Award

    Bosch has presented Schearer’s Sales & Service, Inc. of Allentown, Pennsylvania, with the second annual Bosch Module Shop of the Year Award.

    Selected from a pool of independent repair shops across North America, Schearer’s stood out for its exceptional commitment to the automotive industry through innovation, sustainability, community involvement and the legacy it continues to build, according to a statemet from Bosch.

    The recognition is part of the Bosch Automotive Service and Maintenance Module Program, a brand loyalty and support program designed for independent repair shop owners.

    “Owner Tom Schearer and the Schearer’s Sales & Service team exemplify the future of automotive repair — driven by visionary leadership, deep community roots, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability and education,” said Todd Hertzler, North American regional president at Bosch Mobility Aftermarket. “With the Bosch Module Program, shop owners like Tom gain access to benefits specially curated to support independent repair shops in growing their businesses. This award is about celebrating shops that not only do excellent work today, but who are also helping to shape a more capable aftermarket for the future.”

    Schearer’s Sales & Service was honored with the 2025 Shop of the Year Award in recognition of its outstanding fulfillment in the following submission criteria:

    • Investment in the Future of Automotive: Schearer’s Sales & Service is investing in the future of automotive repair through the launch of ShiftPoint Training Academy, a hands-on program founded by Tom Schearer’s daughter, Samantha Schearer-Higdon, in 2025. This innovative, one-on-one personalized coaching method provides practical, real-world experience that prepares trainees to excel in today’s fast-evolving automotive industry.
    • Sustainability Efforts: Sustainability is a core part of operations at Schearer’s. Over the past few years, the shop has advanced practical environmental initiatives like recycling 100% of used oil, filters and fluids, using waste oil to heat the shop, and donating excess oil to other local shops. They’ve also achieved 99% paperless operations with digital inspections, invoices and records, significantly reducing paper and printing waste and improving overall daily operations in the shop.
    • Community Engagement and Support: Community engagement is a core part of Schearer’s mission, reflected in their fundraising and event involvement with local organizations like the Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley, the BRIDGES Foundation and Bethlehem Area Vo-Tech.
    • Building a Lasting Legacy: Since Tom and Christy Schearer made their dreams of owning a repair facility come true in 1995, Schearer’s has grown into a trusted name for high-quality, personalized service and used vehicles. Celebrating its 30th year in business, Schearer’s legacy is one of continuous growth, strong values and a dedication to providing meaningful career opportunities for automotive repair professionals.

    “A lot has changed over the years, but one thing stays the same — our commitment to taking great care of our clients through our core values of trust, quality and a personal touch,” said Tom Schearer. “Bosch has played a significant role in helping us honor this commitment, both through the support of the Module Program and the quality parts, tools and equipment it produces, all of which help us stay at the forefront of automotive repair.”

    Honorable mentions for the Shop of the Year award include the following independent repair shops:

    • Budget Brake and Muffler Abbotsford: The British Columbia-based Budget Brake and Muffler Abbotsford has continued to exemplify innovation through investing in advanced diagnostic tools and training technicians to expertly service hybrid and electric vehicles.
    • Catalpa Street Garage LLC: Catalpa Street Garage is establishing a legacy of dealership-level service in an independent, family-driven environment for the Santa Cruz, California, community through its strong commitment to customer transparency and dedication to growing both technology and in-house talent.
    • C&H Foreign Auto Repair: The Spokane, Washington-based C&H Foreign Auto Repair earned an honorable mention for its long-standing commitment to quality service, community support and a family-driven legacy that spans nearly five decades.
    • Eurotech Auto: Eurotech Auto in New Brighton, Minnesota, merges dealership-level service with independent shop values, combining cutting-edge technology, on-site technician training and community investment to set a new standard for quality and care in European auto repair.
    • SSA European Auto Repair: Based in Kingston, Massachusetts, SSA European Auto Repair earned an honorable mention for its steady growth, people-first culture and commitment to proving that integrity, training and community care can drive long-term success.

  • Big Brand expansion continues with Brothers Tire & Service acquisistion

    Big Brand expansion continues with Brothers Tire & Service acquisistion

    Big Brand Tire & Service continued its expansion efforts as it acquired Burt Brothers Tire & Service, adding nearly 30 stores to Big Brand Tire & Service’s growing footprint.

    Based in North Salt Lake, Utah, Burt Brothers Tire & Service was owned by Utah-based private equity firm Bestige Holdings.

    Headquartered in Moorpark, California Big Brand Tire & Service is owned by San Francisco, Calif.-based private equity firm Percheron Capital.

    According to a statement from Big Brand, the acquisition “meaningfully expands Big Brand’s footprint and density across the Mountain West, further strengthening its position as one of the largest and fastest-growing providers of non-discretionary automotive services in the United States.”

    Terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

    Big Brands has grown this year and last with a string of acquisitions, including:

    • Northridge Tire Pros, Tred Shed Tire Pros, Sierra Nevada Tire & Wheel, and American West Tire Pros in February
    • Reese’s Auto in Arizona in April
    • Robertson Tire and Tires To You last November
    • Tires To You, a seven-location chain in the Austin, Texas area

    Founded in 1969, Big Brand has become one of the largest and fastest-growing non-discretionary automotive service businesses in the country. Since Percheron’s investment in 2021, the company has achieved transformational growth, expanding revenue more than tenfold and profitability more than fifteenfold.