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Tag: Newsletter 5th Article

  • PACCAR updates MX-11 and MX-13 engine software

    PACCAR updates MX-11 and MX-13 engine software

     PACCAR Inc.recently, announced Kenworth Truck Company and Peterbilt Motors Company will implement updated software for vehicles equipped with PACCAR MX-11 and PACCAR MX-13 engines, reflecting revised U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) guidance on Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) inducements. 

    Trucks manufactured after July 20 will have the software installed at the factory. Trucks built after 2018 will be available for these software updates at Kenworth and Peterbilt dealerships.

    In alignment with the EPAs guidance, these updates are designed to help Kenworth and Peterbilt customer improve reliability and reduce unnecessary disruptions to their operations by:

    • Having the final inducement speed limit increased from 5 mph to 25 mph
    • Extending the timeline from 4 to 160 hours for component-related or fluid-quality issues before reaching final inducement speed limit

    DEF inducements are safeguards that reduce vehicle speed and power when emissions system issues are detected. Common issues include low DEF levels or reduced Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system performance. DEF inducements prompt drivers to correct the issue by refilling the DEF tank, repairing faulty sensors, or performing a system regeneration. All MX-powered vehicles remain subject to EPA emissions requirements. Vehicles requiring repairs to emissions components must be serviced to maintain compliance.

  • Rush Truck Centers tech wins Arkansas competition

    Rush Truck Centers tech wins Arkansas competition

    Several technicians won awards during the Arkansas Trucking Association’s annual Trucking Championships held recently at the Rogers. Convention Center in Rogers, Arkansas.

    Canaan Silcox of Rush Truck Centers was crowned the Truck Technician Grand Champion. Slicox won first place in the Aftertreatment, Air Conditioning/Refrigeration, Drive Train and Steering & Suspension categories, and took second place in the PMI category.

    Jordan Burris of Tyson Foods was named the Trailer Technician Grand Champion. Burns also took home first place in the Alignment and Tire Inflation categories and took second place in the Tire & Wheel Analysis category.

    The two grand champions will represent Arkansas at the National Technician Skills Competition, SuperTech 2026, to be held Sept. 20-24 in Pittsburgh.

    Paul Kinder of J.B. Hunt Transport was named Rookie of the Year in the competition

    This year’s technician sportsmanship winner was Josh Simmons of Tyson Foods, 

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

    Austin’s Papmered Auto Care acquired by Great Water 360

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Love’s adds RV service at some locations; tires and batteries too

    Love’s adds RV service at some locations; tires and batteries too

     Love’s Travel Stops irecently announced the addition of light mechanical work and oil and lube services at select Love’s Truck Care locations, building on its recent addition of RV tires and batteries. The company is alsonnounced a partnership with Spartan RV Chassis to provide warranty work for Spartan RVs.  

    “The nationwide reach of Love’s Truck Care locations gives RV drivers easy access to fast service with no appointment required,” said Eric Daniels, vice president of truck care for Love’s. “This summer, RVers can find more value than ever at Love’s, including comprehensive maintenance services, convenient overnight stays at Love’s RV Stops, a variety of food options, dog parks and savings on fuel through Love’s Rewards.” 

    Oil and lube services are now available at 275 locations, while nearly all 431 Love’s Truck Care locations nationwide offer light mechanical work, including: 

    • Brake systems 
    • Select batteries and tires 
    • Electrical systems 
    • Suspension systems 
    • Exhaust systems 

    Love’s is also adding RV warranty services through a new partnership with Spartan RV Chassis, a brand under the Aebi Schmidt Group and a leading manufacturer of premium Class A motorhomes. Through the agreement, Love’s Truck Care locations will offer Spartan motorhome owners comprehensive maintenance packages, chassis inspections, lube service, and wheel alignment – all performed to Spartan’s exact specifications. 

    “Spartan owners invest in the best chassis on the road and they deserve a service they can count on,” said Douglas Searles, vice president and general manager of Motorhome & Builtmore, a unit of the Aebi Schmidt Group. “Partnering with Love’s means our customers can pull into a trusted location across the country any time and know their chassis will be cared for the right way.”

    In addition to RV maintenance solutions, Love’s operates a growing network of more than 130 RV Stops nationwide, featuring amenities such as Wi-Fi, electric and water hookups, RV dump stations, and – at select locations – additional offerings such as sport courts, fire pits and grills. Love’s is the only travel stop network that allows RVers to book, pay for and turn on amenities on their phones through the Love’s Rewards App.  

  • Toyota and Hyundai announce recalls

    Toyota and Hyundai announce recalls

    Two major automotive manufacturers recently announced recalls of some of their vehicles.

    Toyota: Manufacturing debris

    Toyota is recalling certain 2024 Tundra vehicles equipped with a V35A engine. Debris from the manufacturing process may contaminate the engine and cause a main bearing to fail, which can result in an engine stall and loss of drive power. A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

    This recall potentially affects 43,566 vehicles. The remedy is currently under development. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6. Owners may contact Toyota’s customer service at 800-331-4331. Toyota’s numbers for this recall are 25TB14 and 25TA14.

    This recall expands previous NHTSA recall numbers 24V381 and 25V767.

    Hyundai: Unexpected braking

    Hyundai Motor America is recalling certain 2025-2026 Santa Cruz, Tucson, Tucson Hybrid, and Tucson Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) vehicles. Software in the front cameras may cause the forward collision avoidance system to activate prematurely and unexpectedly apply the brakes. Unexpected braking increases the risk of a crash.

    This recall potentially affects 421,078 vehicles. Dealers will update the front camera software. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 17. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 855-371-9460. Hyundai’s number for this recall is 302.

  • 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)
  • ‘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.

  • Chrysler recalls some Ram 2500 pickups

    Chrysler recalls some Ram 2500 pickups

    A new recall is aimed at numerous pickup truck produced by Chrysler.

    The is recalling some 2023-2026 Ram 2500 pickup trucks. A software error in the powertrain control module may improperly allow the vehicle speed to exceed the tire speed rating. Chrysler’s recall notice said this can result in a loss of vehicle control. Loss of vehicle control increases the risk of a crash.

    This recall affects 12,736 vehicles.

    Dealers will update the powertrain control module software. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 4. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 800-853-1403. FCA’s number for this recall is 43D.

  • AAPEX registration opens; held Nov. 3-5 in LasVegas

    AAPEX registration opens; held Nov. 3-5 in LasVegas

    The Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) has announced that attendee registration for AAPEX 2026 is open.

    AAPEX is an annual business-to-business tradeshow that brings the $2.3 trillion global automotive aftermarket together—including suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and independent repair shops, among others.

    AAPEX 2026 will be held at the Venetian Expo and AAPEX Forum in Las Vegas from Nov. 3-5. The show is co-produced by two of the most prominent associations in the automotive aftermarket: Auto Care Association and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers.

    The show theme this year is “Where the industry gets real.” That theme recognizes that while the show strives to foster a novel and entertaining atmosphere, the thousands of exhibitors and tens of thousands of attendees make the global trek to AAPEX from more than 120 countries for one primary reason: to get business done. 

    “AAPEX is a defining event for the automotive aftermarket because it’s a venue for business networking that drives tangible outcomes,” said Auto Care Association Vice President of Trade Shows and Community Engagement Mark Bogdansky. “That’s our North Star for organizing the show every year: make it easy for attendees and buyers to find what they need and meet their business goals.”

    AAPEX 2026 includes:

    • The new AAPEX Forum will host the opening reception and general sessions
    • 550,000 square feet of exhibit space covering 1,400-plus product categories
    • 2,500+ exhibitors across 5,500 booths
    • Educational sessions addressing real-world challenges
    • Redesigned mini stages hosting spirited debates, face-to-face demos and free sessions
    • Student programs and the second annual student competition for aspiring auto technicians
    • Hands-on training led by subject matter experts, in Joe’s Garage and surrounding conference rooms, covering requested topics, such as shop management, workforce development, diagnostics, ADAS, and EV service, among others

    The show will also welcome an entirely new section in iFlex at AAPEX for the first time. This section is dedicated to quick lube operators from International Fast Lube Expo (iFlex), which AAPEX and Preventive Automotive Maintenance Association (PAMA) jointly announced earlier this year.

    Registration and hotel accommodations

    Aftermarket professionals interested in attending may register here. The registration fee to attend AAPEX 2026 is $50 until June 26. After that deadline, the registration fee grows to $75 until Sept. 25, and $100 thereafter.

    Training sessions are priced at $150 each. Buy two sessions and get one free; buy four sessions and get two free.

    Qualified vocational students, along with members of the media, are eligible to register for a complimentary pass to AAPEX.

    AAPEX strongly recommends attendees make secure hotel reservations as soon as possible using onPeak, the official AAPEX housing partner. Shuttle services to and from the show are readily available.