AASP-MN News December 2023

December 2023

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

From the AASP-MN Board of Directors & Staff

AASP Leaders Take Part in National and Local Level Talks AASP-MN and MNCARS Team Up with TechForce Foundation

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CONTENTS Vol. 32 No. 12

AASP-MN News is the official publication of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers, Minnesota, Inc. 1970 Oakcrest Ave., Suite 102 Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 612-623-1110 Fax: 612-623-1122 email: aasp@aaspmn.org website: aaspmn.org. To keep its readers better informed, AASP-MN News allows its columnists to fully express their opinions. All views expressed are not necessarily those of the publication. AASP-MN News is published by Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. ©2023 All rights reserved. Cover image www.istockphoto.com.

AASP of Minnesota is an association of independently-owned automotive service businesses and industry suppliers dedicated to improving the state’s automotive service industry and the success of its members.

AASP-MN BOARD MEMBERS

ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE........................... 4 Evolution of Business and Brand

by Paul Yager, AASP-MN Associate Division Director LEGISLATIVE UPDATE............................................................... 5 Storage Fees and Abandoned Vehicles

by Sam Richie & Shannon K. Mitchell, AASP-MN Lobbyists

2023 - 2024

LOCAL NEWS............................................................................ 6

PRESIDENT Mike McLynn

NATIONAL NEWS ...................................................................... 8

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Jesse Jacobson SECRETARY-TREASURER Aaron Swanson COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR Travis Doyle MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTOR Dan Gleason

AASP-MN MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION ..................................... 10 RACE FOR AUTOMOTIVE EDUCATION REGISTRATION ............ 11 D.E.G. TIPS ................................................................................ 13 COVER STORY .......................................................................... 14 AASP Leaders Take Part in National and Local Level Talks

by Alana Quartuccio

ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR Paul Yager

INSURANCE I.Q. ........................................................................ 18 Mother Nature versus Small Business

COLLISION SEAT Shannon Christian

COMPLETE HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY SERVICES (C.H.E.S.S.) ............................................................................... 20 A Close Shave

by Janet L. Keyes

MECHANICAL SEATS Tim Kruse Randy Notto

CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBER BENEFITS! ................................... 22 AASP National Benefits Available to AASP-MN Members

STAFF

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Linden Wicklund

UPCOMING EVENTS

OFFICE MANAGER Jodi Pillsbury PUBLISHED BY: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 244 Chestnut St., Suite 202 Nutley, NJ 07110 PHONE: 973-667-6922 FAX: 973-235-1963 PUBLISHER Thomas Greco | thomas@grecopublishing.com SALES DIRECTOR Alicia Figurelli | alicia@grecopublishing.com EDITORIAL & CREATIVE COORDINATOR Alana Quartuccio | alana@grecopublishing.com MANAGING EDITOR Chasidy Rae Sisk | chasidy@grecopublishing.com OFFICE MANAGER Donna Greco | donna@grecopublishing.com PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Joe Greco | joe@grecopublishing.com www.grecopublishing.com

@grecopublishing

First Wednesday Each Month, 8am – 9:30am Southern Metro Collision Shop Meeting Dakota County Technical College, Rosemount

Third Tuesday Each Month, 9:30am - 10:30am Mechanical Monthly Morning Zoom Meetup

Second Wednesday Each Month, 7:30am – 9:30am Third Thursday Each Month, 9:30am - 10:30am Central MN Area Collision Repair Alliance Meeting Collision Monthly Morning Zoom Meetup APH Headquarters, St. Cloud

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Aramark.......................................................... 20

Mopar.............................................................. 19

CBIZ.................................................................. 17

Morrie’s .......................................................... 12

Dentsmart....................................................... 15

Proven Force........................................................ OBC

Inver Grove Honda........................................... 18

Straight & Square......................................... 2, 21

Inver Grove Toyota.......................................... 18

Thomas Greco Publishing.......................... 16

Keystone......................................................... 13

Toyota Group................................................ 2

Maplewood Toyota...................................... 4

WIN.................................................................. 16

Mills Parts Center.......................................... 19

AASP-MN News

December 2023 | 3

ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

Evolution of Business and Brand

By Paul Yager, AASP-MN Associate Division Director

For more than 65 years, Enterprise Rent-A-Car has been moving mobility forward. As mobility has evolved, so have we. As we look to the future, our vision is clear.

We want to be the world’s best and most trusted mobility company.

The recent announcement of our new corporate brand, Enterprise Mobility, marks the beginning of a new chapter, reinforcing our commitment to deliver exceptional service for partners, customers and neighbors – innovating with intention to meet their ever-changing needs.

“Since day one, we’ve been inspired by a bold idea: creating better experiences for how the world moves,” said Enterprise Mobility President & CEO Chrissy Taylor.

“Enterprise Mobility embodies the incredible journey of our business, both where we come from and where we are going,” added Taylor.

The motivation behind the shift is to reflect the business’ evolution from a fleet of seven cars, more than six decades ago, to a global network of mobility solutions

4 | December 2023

serving consumers, businesses and governments.

While our corporate brand is changing, who we are is not. Our enduring values continue to guide every interaction with our customers, partners, communities and each other.

We’ve always been a people-first, purpose-led organization. As Enterprise Mobility, we’re reaffirming our dedication to every journey and every person through people-first mobility experiences. Learn more about Enterprise Mobility at youtube.com/ watch?v=3Hv4l9GJdXo.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! NOVEMBER 2023 EagleMMS Torrington, CT

AASP-MN News

Hanson Tire and Exhaust Hayward, WI

Loretto Auto Body Loretto, MN

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Storage Fees and Abandoned Vehicles

by Sam Richie & Shannon K. Mitchell, AASP-MN Lobbyists

Over the summer and fall, two concerning and related trends have become more prevalent for AASPMN members. Some insurance companies are pushing back against and, at times, refusing to pay storage fees.

Additionally, in response to storage fees, some insurance companies are choosing to simply abandon total-loss vehicles at auto body shops.

As winter quickly approaches, vehicle storage can be even more of a burden on shops because of snow removal, so knowing your rights to charge storage fees is even more important. Ultimately, storing vehicles while waiting for approval to start or complete repairs, or for payment from either the insurance company or customer, results in a loss of space and ability to repair other vehicles.

Minnesota law explicitly recognizes auto shops’ right to charge storage fees, setting parameters of “storage and towing charges shall not exceed the usual and customary charges for the towing and storage of undamaged vehicles in the area, except if the vehicle, due to its damaged condition, requires special handling in the towing or storage, an added charge may be made.”

(MN Statute 72b.092) Having to store a torn-down vehicle awaiting claim or supplement approval is just one example of special handling.

Storage fees are required to be posted per Minnesota Statute 325F.62 Required Shop Practices. AASP-MN also provides members with a template rate notification form that can be shared with customers and insurance companies. In the case of vehicles that are financed or leased, storage charges for greater than 15 days are only allowed to be included in a lien against a vehicle if the creditors are notified by certified mail, per Minnesota Statute 514.19. While creditor notification isn’t required for charging storage at start, it is helpful when it comes to getting paid.

To calculate your fee, researching the posted rates of other shops, general parking options, and tow lots in your area can be helpful. LaborRateHero.com is also a good resource for this type of comparison. Additionally, consider your specific circumstances, such as renting an extra lot to store vehicles or the cost to the shop if a bay or lift is occupied by a disassembled vehicle awaiting claim or supplement approval.

Following these best practices for charging storage fees will help auto repair shop owners collect the fees they are entitled to under law. If the insurer or customer refuses to pay, these practices will also help make for a stronger path toward recourse.

Another recent and related trend is insurers abandoning vehicles at repair shops in lieu of payment.

Over the past few months in cases of total loss vehicles, where there are charges for towing, storage and

sometimes teardown, a number of insurance companies are abandoning the vehicles. This is not only unethical but prohibited by Minnesota Statute 168B.03, which states “any person who abandons a motor vehicle on any public or private property, without the consent of the person in control of such property, is guilty of a misdemeanor.”

Other segments of 168B cover the steps for selling an abandoned vehicle.

While these insurers often leave the title, this is still abandonment if the repair shop owner has not consented to this arrangement. As this is a recent trend, AASP-MN is working diligently to capture the specifics of each case to highlight this unethical and illegal business practice trend for the Department of Commerce. We ask that you please contact the Executive Director Linden Wicklund, Linden@ aaspmn.org, (612) 623-1110, if you have experienced this.

We will track these issues during the upcoming legislative session, which will begin in February 2024.

Meanwhile, AASP-MN is refining its legislative priorities of what it will proactively advocate for. Look for our full legislative preview guide in next month’s article.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN: Supporting future technicians?

Bettering yourself through ongoing education?

Increasing efforts to improve the automotive repair industry?

Taking advantage of amazing benefits, many at a substantial discount?

JOIN US!

If so...

See pg. 10 for application, call (612) 623-1110 or email aasp@aaspmn.org

AASP-MN News

December 2023 | 5

LOCAL NEWS We Need You

The Alliance is looking for automotive industry professionals who are interested in advancing the industry by serving in leadership positions on the AASPMN board of directors and advisory committees in 2024.

Several positions will be open on the Collision, Mechanical and Associate Advisory Committees, as well as the Government & Regulatory Affairs Committee.

There will also be three seats open on the AASP-MN Board of Directors, two collision and one mechanical.

Volunteer service is a great way for AASP-MN members to get more involved in the Alliance, influence the direction of projects and priorities and positively impact the association and the industry.

If you have a personal interest or would like to nominate someone else, contact the Nominating Committee Chair Jesse Jacobson at (651) 403-9148 or you can reach him at jesse.jacobson@heppnersautobody.com or the Alliance office at (612) 623-1110 or aasp@aaspmn.org.

Nominations must be received by February 15, 2024.

Current Board Members & Term Expiration Date Mike McLynn, Automotive Electric President – 3/31/25 Jesse Jacobson, Heppner’s Auto Body Immediate Past President – 3/31/24 Aaron Swanson, LaMettry’s Collision Secretary/Treasurer – 3/31/25 Paul Yager, Enteprise Rent-A-Car Associate Division Director – 3/31/25 Dan Gleason, Pro-Tech Auto Repair Mechanical Division Director – 3/31/25 Travis Doyle, Arrowhead Auto Body Collision Division Director – 3/31/24 Randy Notto, Lenfer Automotive & Transmission Mechanical Seat – 3/31/26 Shannon Christian, Shannon’s Auto Body Collision Seat – 3/31/26 Tim Kruse, TGK Automotive Mechanical Seat – 3/31/26

MNCARS Automotive Workforce Summit a Success

The Automotive Workforce Summit was hosted by MNCARS at the 3M Collision Training Center on October 17, 2023. This event brought together leaders from the automotive industry, workforce development and education. Keynote speaker Dr. Melissa Furman kicked off the event by highlighting that the workforce shortage is not simply about finding more entry level employees, it is also about filling the looming leadership gap caused by baby boomers staying in the workforce longer than expected and now retiring at a rapid rate.

Presentations by RealTime Talent and GoodwillEaster Seals brought critical data to the conversation by presenting on the state of the workforce across Minnesota, how automotive jobs compare to other industries, and on baseline pay needs to live in the state.

Look out for next month’s feature article to learn more about the key take-aways from the event!

6 | December 2023

MNCARS Talent Pipeline Management Meeting

MNCARS Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) Meeting will take place on December 6 from 10am to 11am at DCTC in the Dakota Room. MNCARS and AASP-MN are looking for employers interested in being part of a Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) project to uncover and address the top issues in the current pipeline for bringing new technicians into the industry.

The TPM method uniquely focuses on employer ROI by bringing together companies to share actionable data for collective action and decision making. Ideal employers would be prepared to contribute time for regular meetings in 2024, company specific data (will be confidential), and financially. For more information, contact Linden Wicklund at linden@aaspmn.org.

AASP-MN and MNCARS Team Up with TechForce Foundation

TechForce™ is a community of students, working techs, educators, industry and donors committed to helping young people find a technical education and career that fits. Its mission is to champion all students to and through their technical education and into careers as professional technicians.

TechForce champions individuals to explore career paths by connecting them with resources to develop their skills and talents, awards scholarships and grants for students to obtain their technical education and supports them throughout their career journey.

Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair & Service (MNCARS) MNCARS is a non-profit organization established in 2016 by AASP-MN. Its sole purpose is to promote careers in the automotive industry, recruit young people into the state’s college-level automotive service and collision repair programs and, ultimately, into industry workplaces.

• November 16 - Dakota County Technical College Transportation Showcase. A special “thank you” to AASP-MN member Dan Sjolseth (Superior Service Center, Eagan) for representing the automotive repair industry at this event!

AASP-MN News

Get out and get active in your local community promoting industry careers!

Take advantage of the resources in the MotorMouth toolbox at carcareers.org/motor-mouth.

AASP-MN and MNCARS recently entered into a strategic alliance with TechForce Foundation to bring more technicians into the automotive service and collision repair industry and to help AASP-MN members connect with them.

AASP-MN members are invited to explore all that TechForce has to offer by creating a profile at techforce.org/app/sign-up.

The Techs Rock Award nominations are currently open. This award is a great way for AASP-MN members to bring recognition to technicians who are a vital part of their business. So, be sure to join the network and nominate your superstar techs here: techforce.org/ techsrock/.

Watch for updates on new features from AASP-MN and MNCARS in the near future.

Join AASP-MN Before the New Year & Save $100!

If the past few years have taught

us anything, it is that we have no idea what unexpected events are going to rock our businesses in the future. Membership in the Alliance is a bit like an insurance policy. When business changes, as a member of AASP-MN you have an instant network of peers, experts and companies who are ready to help you! Joining this vibrant web that reaches across the state is one of the best ways to future proof your business and support an industry you believe in. We look forward to getting to know you! See page 10 for membership application.

Mark Your Calendar

Plans are coming together to hold the Annual Meeting and Leadership Conference March 27-28 at the Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West.

Watch your mail and email for details as they become available. We can’t wait to see you there!

A Final Shout-Out to Our 2023 Sponsors

Our sponsors play a key role in our organization. They support us.

They provide us with extra resources to deliver exceptional programs, education, and networking opportunities to members. They help us keep our costs and fees reasonable and affordable. Please acknowledge those companies that support us in this way.

Thank you 2023 Year-Long Sponsors!

Platinum Sponsors LKQ Minnesota Lube-Tech

Gold Sponsors

3M AASP National Auto Value / Benco CBIZ FinishMaster NCS / Single Source ShopMonkey

Silver Sponsors

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON! From the AASP-MN Board of Directors & Staff

Mike McLynn, Automotive Electric, President Jesse Jacobson, Heppner’s Auto Body, Immediate Past President Aaron Swanson, LaMettry’s Collision, Secretary/Treasurer Paul Yager, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Associate Division Director Dan Gleason, Pro-Tech Auto Repair, Mechanical Division Director Travis Doyle, Arrowhead Auto Body, Collision Division Director Randy Notto, Lenfer Automotive & Transmission, Mechanical Seat Shannon Christian, Shannon’s Auto Body, Collision Seat Tim Kruse, TGK Automotive, Mechanical Seat Linden Wicklund, Executive Director Sam Richie and Shannon Mitchell, Lobbyists Jodi Pillsbury, Office Manager

AASP-MN News

Accelerated Vehicle Technology Aramark Axalta Coating Systems Colonial Life Enterprise Rent-A-Car Heartman Insurance O’Reilly Auto Parts PPG Automotive Refinishes Sherwin-Williams Suburban GM Parts Sunbelt Business Advisors United Fire Group

Bronze Sponsor aaa Auto Parts C.H.E.S.S. Dentsmart PDR Radco

December 2023 | 7

NATIONAL NEWS

www.langmarketing.com

EV Impact on ICE Aftermarket Many Years Away Much has been discussed about the impact of electric vehicles (EVs) on the new car and light truck market. However, little has been mentioned about the consequences of EVs for the internal combustion engine (ICE) aftermarket.

Lang Marketing believes that the predictions of EVs dominating U.S. roads are overblown and that their consequences for the ICE car and light truck aftermarket will be limited for many years.

with high rates of aftermarket product use.

The repair-age sweet-spot, (vehicle age category with the highest aftermarket volume of many products) spans the sixth to tenth year of operation.

Due to the lower than expected rate of new electric vehicle sales in the U.S., it will take many years before they enter the repair-age sweet-spot in large numbers and are driven annually to the point where they replace a significant share of ICE vehicle product use.

Aftermarket Dynamics Four factors are critical to aftermarket product volume: the number of vehicles in operation (VIO), their use (annual mileage), the VIO’s age profile and the number of vehicles in specific age groups.

Conclusions Lang Marketing estimates that EVs will replace only a small portion of ICE aftermarket product volume over the next five years. The underperformance of EVs in the four factors driving aftermarket growth will result in ICE aftermarket product volume achieving significant annual growth over the next five years.

EV Aftermarket Growth To project the consequences of electric vehicles for the ICE aftermarket, it is necessary to examine the four factors driving aftermarket product volume.

Growth of EVs in Operation Despite their share of the new car and light truck market increasing nearly fourfold between 2016 and 2022, electric vehicles currently represent just over one percent of the nation’s VIO, and their impact on aftermarket product volume has been even less.

Annual Miles While there is some disagreement, most data indicate that electric vehicles are driven fewer miles per year than ICE cars and light trucks of the same age.

Accordingly, the aftermarket product use of electric vehicles, as reflected by the miles they are driven, will be less than their impact on the nation’s VIO. Vehicle Age Vehicles of various ages do not contribute equally to aftermarket product volume.

Most replacement parts withstand years of use before they are replaced.

So far, most electric vehicles on U.S. roads are less than three years old, an age at which replacement parts (except tires) are not consumed in quantity.

Vehicle Population of Age Categories The fourth element determining aftermarket product volume is the population of vehicles in age categories

8 | December 2023

Six Major Takeaways • Four factors are critical for aftermarket product growth: the number of vehicles in operation, the use (annual mileage) of vehicles, the VIO age profile and the population of vehicles in specific age categories.

• Electric vehicles have recorded much slower growth of VIO share than they have of new car and light truck sales. EVs will continue to have a lower-than-expected share of light vehicles in operation across the U.S. over the next five years.

• While there is some disagreement, mounting data indicate that electric vehicles average fewer miles annually than ICE cars and light trucks of the same age.

Accordingly, the mileage shift from ICE to electric vehicles will occur slower than the pace at which EVs replace ICE vehicles on U.S. roads.

• Vehicles of different age groups do not contribute equally to aftermarket product volume. Vehicles five years and newer average nearly 100 percent more annual miles than vehicles 10 years and older, but they make lower contributions per mile to aftermarket product volume (except for tires) than older cars and light trucks.

• One factor determining aftermarket product volume is the population of vehicles in age categories with high rates of aftermarket product use. The repair-age sweet-spot (vehicles aged six to 10 years old) will have less than two percent of its population represented by electric vehicles over the next five years.

• The pace at which EVs replace ICE aftermarket product

AASP-MN News

sales will be much slower than many expect, with ICE aftermarket product volume recording strong growth over the next five years. See the all-new 2024 Lang Aftermarket Annual for an in-depth analysis of the small impact that EVs have had on the aftermarket so far and estimates of their future aftermarket volume.

Mobile Repair Surges 10 Times DIFM Pace Mobile Repair remains a small portion of the light vehicle Do-It-For-Me (DIFM) market, but it has made strong headway in expanding its DIFM footprint. The number of full and part-time technicians conducting Mobile Repair has increased significantly and product sales are growing even faster.

Since most Mobile Repair jobs are ordered online, its growth indicates the rapid and much greater increase that o2o (online to offline) automotive repair can achieve nationwide.

Mobile Auto Repair Despite its small share of the total auto repair market, Mobile Repair has surged in recent years, with strong growth even during 2020, when the overall Do-It-For-Me (DIFM) market plunged at a double-digit pace.

Phenomenal Growth Rate Mobile Repair topped 16 percent annual growth between 2016 and 2020, soaring at twice that pace in the next two years.

Between 2016 and 2022, Mobile Repair climbed at an annual pace more than 10 times faster than the overall DIFM light vehicle market.

Three Barriers to Auto Repair Disruption For many years, the auto repair market was thought to be protected from disruption by three factors: the need for hands-on technician diagnosis, required parts at the place of repair and the value of a personal relationship between vehicle owners and repair outlets.

In recent years, the situation has been changed by advancing technology and the differing values of younger generations, which have significantly altered how consumers decide when and where to have their vehicles repaired.

formidable as once thought.

Mobile Repair operations conduct more than 85 percent of repairs in one visit to the client, and their range of repairs is expanding.

Diagnostic Needs Mobile operations are broadening the scope of repairs they perform by having customers answer a series of questions to determine what is wrong with their vehicle.

In this way, Mobile Repair operations are reducing the need for “hands-on” diagnostics by brick- and-mortar technicians across an expanding range of repairs.

They are addressing diagnostic issues through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and the development of massive databases of vehicle symptoms.

Needed Parts at Repair Site Mobile Repair technicians can usually bring the necessary parts to most repair locations.

Even brick-and-mortar repair outlets often discover the need for additional parts once a job is underway and related issues are uncovered. In these cases, parts are purchased from local sources. In the same way, Mobile Repair operators can obtain additional parts required as the repair job develops.

Changing Buying Preferences of Younger Generations Millennials and Gen Zers increasingly prefer buying auto repair online (like their other purchases) instead of face-to-face transactions. Developing a personal relationship with repair outlets is less important to Millennials and Gen Zers than to older generations, particularly Baby Boomers.

Generation Y and Z consumers are more inclined to use Mobile Repair than older Americans, who prefer doing business face-to-face.

Implications for o2o Expansion Mobile Repair’s ability to address a growing share of the DIFM market and the increased willingness of consumers to purchase auto repairs online indicate the vast growth potential of o2o (online to offline) transactions in the car and light truck DIFM market.

Overcoming Disruption Barriers The rapid growth of Mobile Repair has demonstrated that the barriers to auto repair disruption are no longer as

AASP-MN News

continued on pg. 12

December 2023 | 9

OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

As a member of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN), we will abide by the Association’s Code of Ethics, bylaws and other conditions of membership as established by the Board of Directors. We understand the AASP-MN logo must be used in accordance with the logo guidelines. It is understood membership in AASP-MN is subject to acceptance by the Association and is non-transferable. It is also understood that AASP-MN membership dues may be deductible as a business expense for federal income tax purposes, but are not deductible as a charitable contribution.

***PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE*** BUSINESS INFORMATION: Business Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________ Business Representative Name: _________________________________________Title: ____________________________ Street Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________ City: ______________________________ County:______________________ State:______ Zip: ______________________ Phone Number: ( ) __________________________ Fax: ( ) ________________________________________________ Email: _______________________________ Website: _______________________________________________________ Number of Full-Time Employees: _______________ Number of Part-Time Employees: ______________________________ PRIMARY DIVISION: (check one) Collision Mechanical/Transmission List other specialties: _________________________________ Date you started in business: __________________________ ANNUAL GROSS SALES:

$0 - $500,000 $1,500,000 – 2,000,000

$500,000 - $1,000,000 More than $2,000,000

$1,000,000 - $1,500,000

WHAT BENEFITS MOTIVATED YOU TO JOIN AASP-MN? _______________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ I hereby consent to allow AASP-MN to receive details on my participation in association-recommended benefit programs including, but not limited to, account information and pricing, insurance premium, dividend and claims information. I further agree that by providing my mailing and email addresses, telephone and fax numbers, I consent to receive communications sent by or on behalf of AASP-MN via regular mail, email, telephone or fax. I understand that the AASP-MN sign and logo policy authorizes businesses that are members in good standing to use the AASP-MN logo. Should my membership in AASP-MN expire, I agree, at that time, to discontinue all uses of the association’s logo and signs.

Name (Print): ________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature: ________________________________________________________________ Date: _____________________ DUES: 1-3 Employees: $295 Join b ef 4-10 Employees: $455 1/1/24 ore SAVE and 11 + Employees: $615 $100!

Out of State: $150 Additional locations: ___ @ $50 ea.

Complete for Additional Location Only: Company name: ______________________________________ Representative: ______________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________ City: ________________________________ Zip: ____________ Phone: ______________________ Fax: ___________________ Email: ______________________________________________ Please attach list for additional locations if needed.

PAYMENT OPTIONS: _____ Check enclosed, payable to AASP-MN _____ Credit Card (select type) Visa MC DISC AMEX Credit Card #: __________________________________ Exp. Date: _______ /_______ CVV: ____________________ Billing address: ___________________________________________________________________________________ Note: AASP-MN adds a 3% surcharge to all credit card payments. This surcharge is not greater than our total cost of accepting credit cards. Surcharge does not apply to debit cards.

RETURN TO: AASP of Minnesota, 1970 Oakcrest Ave., Suite 102, Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: (612) 623-1110 or (800) 852-9071 Fax: (612) 623-1122 Email: aasp@aaspmn.org Website: http://www.aaspmn.org

10 | December 2023

AASP-MN News

22nd ANNUALRACE RACEFOR FOR 21st 21st ANNUAL ANNUAL RACE FOR AUTOMOTIVE EDUCATION AUT AUTOMOTIVE OMOTIVE EDUCA EDUCATION TION

January January 23-26, 23-26, 2023 2023 January 22-25, 2024 6:00 6:00 -- 9:30pm 9:30pm ProKart Indoor Racing Pr ProKart oKart Indoor Indoor Racing Racing 14350 Rosemount Dr., Burnsville, MN 55306 14350 14350 Rosemount Rosemount Dr., Dr., Burnsville, Burnsville, MN MN 55306 55306 A fundraiser to support the AASP-MN Automotive Education Fund…

Enhancing Enhancing opportunities opportunities in in automotive automotive education education through through scholarships, scholarships, program program support support and and partnerships. partnerships.

Start Start your your engines! engines! Organize Organize your your team team today. today. (This (This event event would would make make aa great great employee employee outing!) outing!) The The competition competition will will consist consist of of up up to to 10 10 teams teams each each night night with with five five members members each each and and aa crew crew chief. chief.

These These ain’t ain’t your your daddy’s daddy’s go go karts! karts! ProKart’s ProKart’s fleet fleet of of RiMO RiMO EVO6 EVO6 Race Race Karts Karts are are run run on on power-boosting, power-boosting, lowlowemission, emission, renewable renewable methanol methanol for for consistency consistency and and performance. performance.

All All proceeds proceeds will will benefit benefit the the AASP-MN AASP-MN Automotive Automotive Education Education Fund Fund When When the the final final checkered checkered flag flag waves waves and and the the adrenaline adrenaline subsides, subsides, our our goal goal is is to to raise raise over over $15,000 $15,000 over over the the four four nights. nights. Most Most of of that that money money is is earmarked earmarked to to fund fund scholarships scholarships for for students students enrolled enrolled in in an an ASE-accredited ASE-accredited automotive automotive program program (collision (collision or or mechanical) mechanical) in in the the state state of of Minnesota.

Minnesota. Scholarship Scholarship awards awards are are $500 $500 -- $2,000 $2,000 per per student. student.

The The race race is is on! on! Registrations Registrations will will be be accepted accepted on on aa first-come, first-come, first-served first-served basis. basis. The The Race for Automotive Education is is sure sure to to be be aa sell-out sell-out event, event, so so don’t don’t delay delay –– register register today! today! _____ _____ Team Team Sponsor Sponsor -- $500 $500 (Includes (Includes admission admission for for 6, 6, including including team team captain captain and and 55 racers) racers) Team Team Name: Name: ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Contact: Contact: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ Address: Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ City: City: ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Zip: Zip: _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________ Email: Email: __________________________________________ __________________________________________ SOLD Preferred Preferred Race Race Night: Night: _____ _____ Monday Monday 1/22 1/22 _____ _____ Tuesday Tuesday 1/23 1/23 _____ _____ Wednesday Wednesday 1/24 1/24 _____ _____ Thursday 1/26 1/26 1/24 1/25 OUT! Thursday _____ _____ Race Race Sponsor Sponsor -- $250 $250 Racing Racing is is not not in in my my blood, blood, but but II would would like like to to support support automotive automotive students/ students/ programs programs in in MN MN (Includes (Includes admission for 2 spectators) Sponsor Sponsor Name: Name: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Contact: Contact: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ Address: Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ City: City: ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Zip: Zip: _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________ Email: Email: __________________________________________ __________________________________________ Return Return with with with check check check payment payment by by 1/15/2024 1/15/2024 to: Return to:

AASP-MN AASP-MN Automotive Automotive Education Education Fund Fund 1970 1970 Oakcrest Oakcrest Ave., Ave., Suite Suite 102, 102, Roseville, Roseville, MN MN 55113 55113 Phone: Phone: 612-623-1110 612-623-1110 // Email: Email: aasp@aaspmn.org aasp@aaspmn.org

Credit Credit cards cards are are accepted accepted with with 3% 3% surcharge. surcharge. This This surcharge surcharge is is not not greater greater than than our our total total cost cost of of accepting accepting credit credit cards. cards.

Surcharge Surcharge does does not not apply apply to to debit debit cards. cards.

The The AASP-MN AASP-MN Education Education Fund Fund provides provides financial financial resources resources to to support support automotive automotive students, students, enhance enhance automotive automotive programs programs and and raise raise awareness awareness of of career career opportunities opportunities in in the the independent independent automotive automotive service service industry. industry.

AASP-MN News

December 2023 | 11

NATIONAL NEWS continued from pg. 9

Great Potential of o2o Auto Repair o2o auto repair has much greater potential volume than Mobile Repair since o2o auto repair can be sold by powerful platforms such as Amazon, which reaches millions of households and offers an approved network of brick-and-mortar outlets where repairs can be performed at the buyer’s convenience.

These o2o repair transactions, besides providing the site of repair, will increasingly supply automotive parts to the DIFM outlets in time for the o2o repair job to be performed. This will further disrupt the DIFM market.

Six Major Takeaways • The values of younger generations and advancing technology have changed the dynamics by which consumers decide when and where to repair their vehicles.

• The auto repair market in the U.S. was long thought to be insulated from disruption by the need for hands-on technician diagnosis, required parts at the place of repair and the value of a personal relationship between vehicle owners and repair outlets. However, these

12 | December 2023

barriers to auto repair disruption have been lowered significantly in recent years.

• Mobile Repair in the U.S. has surged in product and service volume despite the historic decline of DIFM sales during 2020. From 2016 through 2022, Mobile Repair has grown more than 10 times faster than the total Do-It-For-Me market in the U.S. • Significant differences exist in how Millennials and Gen Zers make automotive repair decisions compared to older generations, especially regarding online purchasing.

• Besides establishing where repairs are conducted, online to offline (o2o) auto repair will increasingly supply automotive parts to the repair outlets. This has been integrated into o2o Tire sales.

• Surging Mobile Repair demonstrates that the potential of o2o (online to offline) auto repairs is much greater than previously thought. See the all-new 2024 Lang Aftermarket Annual for an analysis of the growth of Mobile Repair and o2o in the DIFM market.

AASP-MN News

ESTIMATING TIPS

Visit degweb.org to submit a Database Inquiry and contribute to database accuracy!

HELPING TO IMPROVE COLLISION REPAIR ESTIMATE INFO THROUGH REPAIRER FEEDBACK If you’re performing automotive repairs of ANY kind, you need to utilize the DEG! Check out some recent Database Inquiries - and their resolutions - below!

Audatex/Qapter: About this Part – Solera Qapter users can expand the “About this part” menu to view added information about material, part number and price. Users can also click the “clip board” icon to quickly capture the part number.

CCC: Masking Back Side of Bumper – DEG Inquiry 31778 provides feedback that masking back side of bumpers with radars is NOT INCLUDED. “After reviewing your concern, masking of the backside of Bumper Cover would be Not Included.”

In addition, any material cost for masking and cleaning is NOT INCLUDED. Mercedes Benz provides an example in Service Information “si9800p0029a Painting bumpers with radar sensors:” “To avoid paint residue, mask off the inside of the bumper in the area of the short-range radar sensors before painting. The masking must be removed from the inner side after the painting process. All other residue on the inner side must be removed using a suitable adhesive cleaner or silicone remover.”

Mitchell: Door Shell vs Outer Panel, Add for Jambs – In DEG Inquiry 31868, Mitchell provides an explanation of refinish labor differences between a full door shell replacement vs outer panel (door skin) replacement, when “add for jambs” is automatically added.

“The .5 difference represents painting only the rolled edge on the Door Repair Panel.”

Additional feedback about the labor difference of .5: “If the user needs to refinish beyond the edge. Ultimately, it’s at the user’s discretion.”

CCC: Locating the MOTOR GTE and RACED Guide in CCC One Web – CCC One web users can easily access and view both the MOTOR Guide to Estimating (GTE) and Recycled Assemblies Collision Estimating Data (RACED) Guide documents.

Users will need to select “resources” from the top right corner on the estimate screen and select the appropriate link.

All updates for 2023-2024 can be easily identified by the sun burst on each chapter and text marked in blue.

Note: The estimating databases are all intended to be used as a GUIDE ONLY. View these tips and others at DEGWEB.ORG

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AASP-MN News

December 2023 | 13

COVER STORY

AASP Leaders Take Part in National and Local Level Talks

Meeting for the second time this year, state affiliate leaders of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers (AASP) considered a number of automotive repair issues on the national level and shared their local wins and goals when they met at SEMA 2023 in Las Vegas in early November.

AASP-MN Executive Director Linden Wicklund updated her colleagues about the many activities the Alliance has underway. One of the big highlights was the Alliance’s recent MNCARS Automotive Workforce Summit held at the 3M Training Center in St. Paul, which was deemed a success.

The event was focused on bringing together folks from the industry and allied organizations who are impacting what’s happening with students in the state and what is happening with the job market. “It was a

AASP-MN Executive Director Linden Wicklund 14 | December 2023

productive conversation on new initiatives and how we can make things happen,” Wicklund shared.

As someone who is active with many local technical schools’ and community colleges’ advisory boards, she reported the growth these schools are experiencing as they are creating and adding new programs. “We’re seeing more certificate programs or secondary degrees being offered at these schools. They are now offering degrees in estimating and diagnostics.”

AASP National President Dan Sjosleth (Superior Service Center; St. Paul, MN) pointed out that, in some cases, Minnesota auto service programs have waiting lists for students, a good problem to have; the bad news is most collision programs are not filled to capacity. He emphasized the importance of shop owner involvement with local schools. “Be a champion for these kids to help bring them along and give them opportunity.”

The MNCARS event also included discussions surrounding technician pay scale and what wages look like in the automotive field, along with a presentation on minimum sustainable wage, to paint a picture of just how much one needs to earn as a bare minimum to survive living in the Twin Cities. Sjolseth shared that young people are more likely to be passionate about the industry if the pay scale can be more competitive with the wages that one can earn as an electrician or plumber.

AASP-MN also plans to examine what the talent pipeline looks like in order to learn how long people are staying in the industry, with the hopes of stabilizing or changing that rate. They are also collecting great feedback and learning about issues as they have regular conversations with members.

Another major focus has been returning to more in-person regular membership meetings with the hopes of encouraging more members to get involved. “We’ve

AASP-MN News

by Alana Quartuccio

found that having more casual in-person meetings where people can make eye contact, and make new friends, can help grab more people into the fold and keep them engaged with activities,” Wicklund explained.

The members of the AASP National Board took part in conversations related to the Right to Repair legislation that was introduced at the federal level this past February. Tod Moore of the Auto Care Association updated the Board on the process of the legislation which supports consumers’ right to be able to choose where they have their car repaired.

A number of collision repair professionals, including Society of Collision Repair Specialist Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg and Vice President of State Affairs for the Alliance for Automotive Innovation Wayne Weikel came to the table to verify their support of Right to Repair in general, while also sharing some concerns in regard to the motives from those who are driving the federal REPAIR Act, such as major insurance companies and aftermarket part manufacturers.

Another shared consideration among repair professionals is the fact there isn’t much detail about how the information would be used, just that it would be accessible. Others brought up concerns about the testing of aftermarket scanning and calibration equipment that could be reverse engineered via access to OEM information and who would be responsible if the equipment were to malfunction and give a false positive that the calibrations were completed properly.

“If an aftermarket part, scanning or calibration tool were to fail, someone can die,” commented Sjosleth. “It’s

AASP National President Dan Sjosleth a difficult battle for our industry to support both sides of this.”

Another related point of discussion is getting insurers to pay for the procedures that OEMs say are crucial in returning cars to pre-accident condition. “If the auto manufacturers are saying that data is being pulled three percent of the time, and they are frustrated with this, where is the campaign to fix that problem?” Wicklund queried. She also pointed out the issue that shops are making the business decision to become OEM certified, yet those proper repairs will not be paid for in full by insurance companies.

AASP-MN News

continued on pg. 16

December 2023 | 15

COVER STORY continued from pg. 15

Conversations also centered around the success of the invaluable resource that is the Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG). Funded solely by sponsorships, including primary support from AASP National and SCRS, the DEG successfully rolled out an updated website earlier this year, and corrections continue to be made to estimating platforms thanks to inquiries received.

“

We’ve found that having more casual inperson meetings where people can make eye contact, and make new friends, can help grab more people into the fold and keep them engaged with activities.

“

-Linden Wicklund

DEG Administrator Danny Gredinberg reported the year-to-date total of corrected hours across the three main information provider platforms (MItchell, CCC and Audatex) totalled 988 for body hours and 242 hours for paint. Some changes included the time-consuming process of rivet gun set up being a non-included operation and the application of seam sealer on bolt-on parts being noted as non-included.

Gredinberg also referenced the changes coming via Audatex and CCC in regard to the SCRS blend study.

He stressed the importance of continuing to spread the word about the DEG and how submitting inquiries is a great benefit to the entire industry. Most users submit about 10 inquiries per year, with roughly 50 percent resulting in change.

Gredinberg emphasized the importance of submitting inquiries. “Even if something doesn’t change, it’s still something we can address.”

The AASP National Board continues to communicate throughout the year via virtual meetings. The Board plans to reconvene in person next spring once a date and location is determined.

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AASP-MN News

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AASP-MN News

December 2023 | 17

INSURANCE I.Q.

Mother Nature versus Small Business

The summer storm was small by most standards, but it left Kitchens Plus, located in a small, Midwestern town, with a 25’X25’ hole in the roof above the showroom, extending into a workshop. Three inches of rain driven by high winds forced its way under roofing shingles, soaking mine coverage limits by considering the the insulation and creating a gaping hole in the ceiling. ge value of vehicles in your care multiplied At of thevehicles heightinofyour their busy e average number care at season, Mother Nature to beif athe very realvalue threat to the business. “We iven time.proved For instance, average had custom cabinetry to build for an installation the ur customers’ vehicles is $30,000 and you o have 10following vehicles onweek hand, and then you this damage could potentially prevent d select a limit of $300,000. us from completing the job on time,” says owner, Clark must selectKnickerbocker. a per-vehicle deductible that you pay in the caseWithin of a damaging incident.

72 hours, a claims adjuster assessed the the insurer covers the remaining amount, damage and issued a check. Repairs were made quickly, your limits. and Kitchens Plus was able to meet their critical deadline. exposures are Knickerbocker excluded under shares some steps he took prior to the coverage:storm that enabled his business to move forward in spite of the damage: actual obligations

1. Invest in a BOP (business owner’s policy) This type of policy packages all required coverage a business owner would need: business interruption, property insurance, vehicle coverage, liability insurance and crime insurance.

A BOP from United Fire Group (UFG) combines property, liability and crime protection along with a variety of enhancements, including: data processing, security breach and identity theft services, employee dishonesty, money and securities and equipment breakdown.

2. Review coverages with your insurance agent annually.

3. Keep a copy of your policy off site.

4. Keep an up-to-date inventory list or pictures of everything in your shop.

by the insured

ctive parts or faulty work

to sound reproducing equipment, unless it manently installed

to sound receiving equipment—such as e radios and telephones—unless it is led in the dash or console

r detection equipment

nds that unfavorable incidents can occur. insurance assures that you are adequately tact Brad Schmid at CBIZ Inc. today for bschmid@cbiz.com or (763) 549-2247).

s not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions dvice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance riate advice. © 2011, 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.

18 | December 2023

AASP-MN News

If disaster does strike, contact your insurance company within 24 hours of the event and protect the affected area from further damage.

Knickerbocker also suggests taking photos of the damage, and documenting your loss by keeping photos, video, invoices, receipts and purchase orders.

To talk with a local agent, contact Brad Schmid at CBIZ Insurance Services Inc. (763) 549-2247, or bschmid@cbiz.com.

AASP-MN News

December 2023 | 19

COMPLETE HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY SERVICES (C.H.E.S.S.)

A Close Shave

by Janet L. Keyes, CIH Does your face get cold in winter? There’s an easy fix – grow a beard. But that doesn’t work for some men, most women – or many painters. Every employee required to wear a tight-fitting respirator must not have facial hair where the respirator seals to the face. End of story.

Q: My employee says he can’t smell anything when he’s wearing the respirator, even with his beard. It fits okay then – right?

A: No. Relying on one’s sense of smell isn’t reliable. Have you ever walked into a mixing room and been taken aback by the strong solvent smell? How do your painters tolerate that? Olfactory fatigue. If you remain in an area with a strong smell, your nose gets tired and stops responding. Painters are around organic solvents all day, whether painting, mixing or degreasing. You cannot rely on them to be able to detect a respirator leak by smell.

OSHA’s respirator standard states that “employers shall not permit respirators with tight fitting facepieces to be worn by employees who have facial hair that comes between the sealing surface of the facepiece and the face or that interferes with valve function; or any condition that interferes with the face-to-facepiece seal or valve function.” That explicitly prohibits beards.

Goatees are okay – if they are trimmed back so they fit inside the respirator. Mustaches are fine, as long as they aren’t elaborate walrus mustaches that stick out of the respirator. Sideburns – no problem if they don’t extend too far.

Q: My employee was able to pass a fit test with his beard. It must be okay.

A: No, it isn’t okay.

Fit-testing is done to determine if a respirator is the right size and shape to protect the employee. OSHA requires this initially, annually and if there is a change that affects respirator fit. That change could be changing the brand or size of the respirator. It would also include a change in the employee’s face, such as a broken nose or significant weight loss.

No one respirator fits everybody. Nose sizes differ.

Some chins are pointed; some are round. Some people have broad faces; some narrow. Manufacturers make different sizes and styles to accommodate as many faces as possible. If you only give your employees one choice of respirator, it might fit everyone – or it may not. Fit testing is the way to determine if employees are able to obtain a fit good enough to provide the level of protection needed.

Although OSHA’s respirator standard lays out exactly how fit testing is to be done, it is not a completely

20 | December 2023

objective science. The most common type of fit testing, qualitative fit testing, relies on an employee’s ability to taste or smell the challenge agent. It often isn’t done correctly – too few exercises are used, it’s done too quickly, or the tester doesn’t verify that the respirator user can sense the challenge agent. Even when done correctly, it is subjective. Someone with a beard could pass, simply by stating that the test agent wasn’t detected.

Another type of fit testing, quantitative fit testing, is much more objective. This measures the amount of leakage into the facepiece by measuring the pressure differential or by measuring microscopic particles in the air. But even this method has variables that can change whether someone passes or fails. If we test someone with a beard, that person could pass. But we’d be in violation of OSHA’s standard – and risking that person’s health – if we say the beard is okay.

Q: I’ll have my employee shave when he’s being fittested. That’s adequate, isn’t it?

A: No. Absolutely no.

Your painters’ respirators are meant to keep them from breathing contaminants when they’re working.

If the respirator doesn’t seal well, it won’t keep out contaminants. And facial hair breaks that seal. Vapors and small particles easily get past those hairs. NIOSH reports that facial hair under the respirator’s seal will cause 20 to 1000 times more leakage than a clean-shaven face.

Fit testing shows that the respirator can fit well enough. But if you change how the respirator fits by adding a beard, the fit test results no longer apply.

Why can body techs have beards?

NIOSH studies have shown that dust levels from body work are typically below occupational exposure limits. That means respirator use is not mandatory. We encourage respirator use in dusty conditions (although we really prefer to have the dust controlled by other means, such as vacuum sanders). But that use is voluntary, so fit isn’t critical.

If your body techs are using cartridge-type respirators, they need the same medical approvals required of your painters. They need sufficient training to ensure using the respirator will not cause any harm. They need to keep the respirators clean and in good condition, same as your painters.

If their work is very dusty, dusty enough that respirator use becomes mandatory, then the beards have to go.

AASP-MN News

Are respirators really needed?

Maybe not, particularly if you spray waterborne paints (and primers and clears – assuming they’re available to you). The only way to know is to monitor the air. To do that, the painter would wear a monitor

that collects the chemicals of concern onto appropriate media, such as activated charcoal. A qualified laboratory would then extract the chemicals and measure how much was collected. Divide that by the time exposed to get the air concentration.

We’ve found, though, that the mist from painting can be high enough to require respirator use, even if the vapor levels aren’t high enough.

The take-home message: Bearded painters cannot wear tight-fitting respirators (not safely, at least). They need to stay cleanshaven – or switch to loose-fitting respirators (airline or powered air purifying respirators). You need to do initial and annual fit testing for tightfitting respirators, so you know the respirators can protect them. But the respirator has to be worn as it was fitted, with no facial hair breaking the seal.

What’s Wrong With This Picture?

Worn straps and missing one of the inhalation valves (the right one, inside the mask).

I’ll lose my painter if I tell him he has to shave.

Then provide a respirator that can be worn with a beard, an airsupplied respirator or a loose-fitting powered air purifying respirator.

Many painters like these a lot, once they get used to them. They are cooler in summer and provide a higher level of protection. But they can’t be slipped on and off as easily as half-mask respirators. They are more expensive than half mask respirators. If you use air supplied respirators, you need to make sure the air is filtered to provide breathing quality air and is tested for carbon monoxide (and you have to keep the airlines to the respirator separate from those for the paint gun).

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December 2023 | 21

CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS!

AASP National Benefits Available to AASP-MN Members Website & Internet Marketing Solutions Autoshop Solutions is the preferred provider for all website and online marketing needs! Its RPM package is an all-in-one program that bundles your website, pay-perclick, search engine optimization, social media and more! Solutions available at any price point and commitment level. For more information, visit autoshopsolutions.com or contact Tony Mercury at (919) 267-1731 or tony@autoshopsolutions.com.

Information Providers IDENTIFIX: Learn what many AASP members already know: Together, Direct-Hit® and Direct-Help are a great way to diagnose and see how to repair vehicles! AASP Members can get Identifix Direct-Hit® professional auto repair software for $179 per month, sixth and twelfth month free and Identifix Direct-Help unlimited hotline service for $79 per month. That’s over 20 percent annual savings from list pricing! For more information, contact Customer Service at (800) 288-6210 or visit identifix.com/servicemaintenance-repair.

Mitchell International: AASP members receive $350 off Mitchell’s MD-500, the all-in-one solution for diagnostic scanning, calibration, estimating and blueprinting. With the MD-500, you can receive assignments, perform pre- and post-scans, access over 1,000 dynamic calibration routines, take photos, write estimates, link directly to OEM repair procedures, order parts and upload standardized scan and calibration reports—all on one device. For more information, call (800) 238-9111 or visit mitchell.com/diagnostics.

Mitchell 1: Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information and business solutions to the automotive repair industry for over 100 years. The industry-leading family of Mitchell 1 products for automotive repair shops includes a complete line of integrated online solutions that drive efficiency at every step of the repair: AASP members save $10 per month on any eligible Mitchell 1 subscription. For more information about Mitchell 1 products and services, visit the mitchell1.com, call (888-) 724-6742, ext. 6986 or find your local Mitchell 1 representative at mitchell1.com/myrep.

22 | December 2023

Business Coaching 180BIZ is a business coaching and training company with the sole purpose of helping auto and truck repair shop owners go from struggling to stay open to being the go-to shop in their market by working smarter, not harder. Rick White, president, has taught thousands to not only make more money than they ever thought possible, but also to have the time to enjoy it with their family and friends, a true rarity in our industry.

As an AASP member, you enjoy a 25 percent discount on Rick’s POCKET BUSINESS GENIUS™ subscription. POCKET BUSINESS GENIUS™ is the fastest way for independent auto repair shop owners to access actionable business advice from a leading industry expert, including: 50-plus pre-recorded webinars; monthly live, interactive access to the hottest shop management topics in one hour, bite-sized lessons; and monthly live webinars with Q & A sessions with Rick White. For more information on this AASP discounted program, visit 180biz.com/pbg-aasp, call (540) 833-2014 or email info@180biz.com.

Condition Now Condition Now’s collision program is designed to offer body shops a platform to showcase their exceptional work by supplementing the accident or damage information reported on Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports. AASP members receive a discounted inspection rate allowing them to generate additional revenue from their retail and dealer customers. There are NO monthly fees, contracts, minimums, hardware or software to buy. Just use it when you want to and pay as you go. Visit conditionnow.com/bodyshop/ or call (888) 868-5440 to get more info on how you can help your customers retain the value of their vehicles and promote your shop at the same time.

Online Education Portal AASP members have access to free webinars designed to enhance management skills and help their business thrive. Live webinars from home or office.

Archived webinars available 24/7. Visit elearning. autoserviceproviders.com to check it out.

For more information about any of the AASP National programs above, contact the AASP-MN office at (612) 623-1110 or aasp@aaspmn.org.

AASP-MN News

AASP-MN MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAMS PROPERTY/LIABILITY AND WORKERS’ COMP INSURANCE CBIZ Contact: Brad Schmid 763-549-2247 / bschmid@cbiz.com CBIZ AIA and United Fire Group (UFG) have created a program for members that includes a special premium discount, exclusive coverage and potential safety group dividend. CBIZ AIA can present quotes from multiple carriers and, as an added bonus, offer members an exclusive 10% discount on their property/liability insurance premiums.

WEBSITE AND INTERNET MARKETING SOLUTIONS Autoshop Solutions Contact: Tony Mercury 919-267-1731 / tony@autoshopsolutions.com Autoshop Solutions has developed the most cutting-edge marketing platform for AASP members. Really Powerful Marketing (RPM) is an all-in-one program that bundles your website, pay-per-click, search engine optimization, social media, and much more!

With five levels of RPM to match your budget, goals, and competition, it’s built to drive your shop forward!

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CBIZ Diego Campos 763-228-0259 / diegocampos@cbiz.com AASP and CBIZ are partnering to help make the process of purchasing employee benefits a lot less stressful for members.

The CBIZ platform provides increased transparency and more options for savings, the ability to predict rate increases early, and guidance from CBIZ benefits experts.

New Health Insurance Options Now Available!

REPAIR SHOP PRODUCTS/SERVICES DISCOUNTS CARS Cooperative Contact: Stephenie Sheppard 405-547-4077 / membersupport@cars.coop Members receive discounts on a variety of products and services they use every day!

From discounts on paint and rental cars to office supplies and phone services. Over 50 programs available!

EMPLOYEE VOLUNTARY BENEFITS Colonial Life Contact: Deb Ferrao 612-600-4135 / deb.ferrao@coloniallifesales.com

or Tracy Bailey 612-801-0139 / tracy.coloniallife@gmail.com Dedicated representatives can help members transform their benefit package with competitive rates, value added services at no cost and complimentary legal document preparation service. Colonial Life has the tools and flexibility to create a plan to fit everyone’s needs.

UNIFORM & LINEN SUPPLIES Vestis (formerly Aramark) Contact: Ryan Vick 612-269-2303 / vick-ryan2@aramark.com Discounted pricing to members on rental of uniforms, entrance mats, shop rags, etc.

Purchases are also discounted. Members receive annual rebate equal to 10% of their business with Vestis each year.

CREDIT CARD PROCESSING Association BankCard Services Contact: Mac Hardin

INFORMATION PROVIDERS Mitchell 1 Contact: Mitchell 1 Representative 888-724-6742 ext. 6986 Mitchell 1 offers AASP members a $10 per month discount on any eligible Mitchell 1 subscription.

Mitchell International Contact: Mitchell International Representative 800-238-9111 AASP members receive $350 off Mitchell's MD-500 all-in-one solution for scanning, calibration, estimating, and blueprinting.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION HOTLINE IDENTIFIX 800-745-9649 Members enjoy a 20% annual savings on Direct-Hit and Direct-Help subscriptions, the industry's most reliable source for experience-based repair information.

CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICES Certegy Check Services 877-520-2987 Discount rate of .75% to AASP-MN members. Use existing credit card terminal.

Fast claim payments.

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Competitive rates for AASP-MN members.

Terminals and printers sold at cost. Monthly rental of equipment is also available.

LEGAL CONSULTATION Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick 800-496-6789 Members receive free, over-the-phone legal assessment and consultation (some restrictions apply) with an attorney who specializes in the area of law that is the subject of the call.

SAFETY COMPLIANCE Complete, Health, Environmental & Safety Services (C.H.E.S.S.) Contact: Carol Keyes 651-481-9787 / carkey@chess-safety.com AASP-MN members receive a 20% discount on Safety Data Sheet Management (SDSLinks), Right to Know(RTK)/Hazard Communication program customized for your facility and monthly safety reminders, and other safety, OSHA or environmental assistance.

AASP-MN News

AUTO EMPLOYEE ASSESSMENT Assessment Associates International Contact: Nate Page 952-854-6551 / nate@aai-assessment.com Designed to help facilitate and enhance hiring decisions. AASP-MN members receive 50% off retail price, starting as low as $15 per assessment.

BUSINESS FORMS/CALENDARS AASP-MN Contact: Jodi Pillsbury 612-623-1110 / jodi@aaspmn.org Discounted rates on printed business forms and calendars.

PAYROLL PROCESSING CBIZ Payroll Contact: Carrie Hobrough 651-387-9168 / chobrough@cbiz.com Members receive 20% discount off standard payroll, time and attendance, and HRIS products and services.

LIVE-ONLINE & ON-DEMAND TECHNICAL TRAINING Automotive Seminars Contact: Tim Houghtaling 920-866-9813 / tim@automotiveseminars.com

Discounted pricing to AASP-MN members on all live-online events, as well as ondemand training videos. Automotive Seminars specializes in diagnostic training that provides automotive technicians with knowledge, testing techniques and data interpretation skills needed to diagnose today’s vehicles. The live-online events and on-demand training videos focus on automotive electronics and engine management systems and are written and created by some of the industry’s leading diagnostic technicians.

BUSINESS COACHING 180BIZ 540-833-2014 / info@180biz.com Members receive a 25% discount on Rick White's Pocket Business Genius subscription, offering independent auto shop owners fast access to actionable business advice from a leading industry expert.

SHOP SOFTWARE Condition Now 888-868-5440 / conditionnow.com/body-shop

A platform that allows shops to supplement the accident or damage information reported on Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports. Every AASP member receives a discounted inspection rate, allowing them to generate additional revenue from their retail and dealer customers.

December 2023 | 23

“From The Flywheel To The Drive Wheel” We Have What You Need - Delivered To You

Maple Grove • (763) 425-7474 Choose a Replacement that Performs Better than OE. Inventory, Compatibility, Warranty and Service

Automatic Transmissions Over 2,500 vehicle-specified units in stock Up to 3-Year/100,000 Mile Warranty

Differentials 2-Year/Unlimited Mile Warranty

Manual Transmissions 1-Year/Unlimited Mile Warranty

PTUs (Power Transfer Unit) 2-Year/Unlimited Mile Warranty

4WD Transfer Cases 2-Year/Unlimited Mile Warranty

Driveshafts Replacement, Custom Driveline

We offer a complete line of all driveline parts.

- Uncompromised Quality and Service -

24 | December 2023

AASP-MN News