Hammer & Dolly April 2016

www.wmaba.com

April 2016 Volume 10, No. 4 $5.95

Labor Rate Survey Results - Part 2 SCRS Hits Seattle www.grecopublishing.com

April 2016

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CONTENTS April 2016 29 COVER STORY PROTECTING CONSUMERS: PARTS HEARING REVEALS INDUSTRY TRUTHS AND LIES

WMABA reps hold their own against fierce opposition in Annapolis. BY JOEL GAUSTEN On the cover: Hannah Powers Garagiola (Alexander & Cleaver), WMABA President Mark Schaech, Jr. and Executive Director Jordan Hendler in Annapolis on March 10.

LOCAL NEWS 18 WMABA PLEDGES SUPPORT TO AUTO EDUCATORS

The association reaches out to collision repair instructors.

NATIONAL NEWS 22 SCRS INDUSTRY WEEK SET FOR SEATTLE

The national group continues its focus on training and technologies.

DEPARTMENTS 6 10

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TECHNICIAN OF THE MONTH 26 MANNY SANCHEZ

A WMABA member shop recognizes one of its employees for his hard work. BY JACQUELYN BAUMAN

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WMABA FEATURE 35 (UN)STABLE CONDITION: WMABA SURVEY RESULTS — PART 2

The conclusion of the latest look inside the region’s rate realities. BY JOEL GAUSTEN

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Calendar of Events Editor’s Message JOEL GAUSTEN

Executive Director’s Message JORDAN HENDLER WMABA Sponsorship Page

What’s WMABA Up To?

WMABA Membership Application

Meet the Board Ben Gibson

President’s Message MARK SCHAECH, JR. Advertisers’ Index

Images © www.istockphoto.com

April 2016

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Industry training opportunities and don't-miss events.

CALENDAR OF

EVENTS CLASS LISTINGS

April 4, 2016

INSPECTING REPAIRS FOR QUALITY CONTROL Priority Toyota, Chester, VA OVERVIEW OF CYCLE TIME IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE COLLISION REPAIR PROCESS ABRA Auto Body & Glass – Dover, Dover, DE

April 19, 2016 SCRS Open Board Meeting & Annual Election DoubleTree by Hilton – Seat tle SEA-TAC Airport, Seat tle, WA For more info, visit scrs.com

April 20, 2016 SCRS Repairer Roundtab le, SCRS Industry Awards & Corporate Member Recognition DoubleTree by Hilton – Seat tle SEA-TAC Airport, Seat tle, WA For more info, visit scrs.com

April 20-21, 2016 Collision Industry Conferen ce DoubleTree by Hilton – Seat tle SEA-TAC Airport, Seat tle, WA For more info, ciclink.com

April 5, 2016

SECTIONING OF STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURES Manheim (Harrisonburg) Auto Auction, Harrisonburg, VA STRUCTURAL STRAIGHTENING STEEL Harrison Body Works, Richmond, VA WHEEL ALIGNMENT & DIAGNOSTIC ANGLES Southern Collision Center, Chesapeake, VA ADVANCED STEERING & SUSPENSION SYSTEMS DAMAGE ANALYSIS Sharrett Collision Center, Hagerstown, MD

April 6, 2016

ADVANCED STEERING & SUSPENSION SYSTEMS DAMAGE ANALYSIS Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA WHEEL ALIGNMENT & DIAGNOSTIC ANGLES Southern Collision Center, Chesapeake, VA

April 7, 2016

ADHESIVE BONDING Harrison Body Works, Richmond, VA MEASURING Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURES TECHNOLOGIES & REPAIR Radley Chevrolet, Fredericksburg, VA

April 12, 2016

REPLACEMENT OF STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURES Southern Collision Center, Chesapeake, VA HAZARDOUS MATERIALS, PERSONAL SAFETY & REFINISH SAFETY Harrison Body Works, Richmond, VA AUTOMOTIVE FOAMS ABRA Auto Body & Glass - Newport Pike, Wilmington, DE

April 14, 2016

CORROSION PROTECTION Harrison Body Works, Richmond, VA ADVANCED STEERING & SUSPENSION SYSTEMS DAMAGE ANALYSIS Harrison Body Works, Richmond, VA AUTOMOTIVE FOAMS Frederick Co. Career & Tech, Frederick, MD

April 15, 2016

ADVANCED STEERING & SUSPENSION SYSTEMS DAMAGE ANALYSIS Harrison Body Works, Richmond, VA

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April 2016

April 19, 2016

ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE DAMAGE ANALYSIS & SAFETY Manheim (Harrisonburg) Auto Auction, Harrisonburg, VA FULL-FRAME PARTIAL REPLACEMENT Harrison Body Works, Richmond, VA

April 20, 2016

PLASTIC & COMPOSITE REPAIR Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA

April 21, 2016

AUTOMOTIVE FOAMS Radley Chevrolet, Fredericksburg, VA HAZARDOUS MATERIALS, PERSONAL SAFETY & REFINISH SAFETY Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA MEASURING Frederick Co. Career & Tech, Frederick, MD

April 26, 2016

STATIONARY GLASS Harrison Body Works, Richmond, VA

April 27, 2016

RACK & PINION & PARALLELOGRAM STEERING SYSTEMS Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA

April 28, 2016

WATERBORNE PRODUCTS, SYSTEMS & APPLICATION Harrison Body Works, Richmond, VA

May 3, 2016

OVERVIEW OF CYCLE TIME IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE COLLISION REPAIR PROCESS Manheim (Harrisonburg) Auto Auction, Harrisonburg, VA

May 11, 2016

WELDED & ADHESIVELY BONDED PANEL REPLACEMENT Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA

May 14, 2016

WHEEL ALIGNMENT & DIAGNOSTIC ANGLES Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA

May 12, 2016

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS, PERSONAL SAFETY & REFINISH SAFETY Frederick Co. Career & Tech, Frederick, MD

May 17, 2016

SUSPENSION SYSTEMS Manheim (Harrisonburg) Auto Auction, Harrisonburg, VA

May 18, 2016

AUTOMOTIVE FOAMS Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA

May 19, 2016

VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY & TRENDS 2016 Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA SECTIONING OF STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURES Radley Chevrolet, Fredericksburg, VA SUSPENSION SYSTEMS Frederick Co. Career & Tech, Frederick, MD

May 24, 2016

SUSPENSION SYSTEMS Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA

May 5, 2016

ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE DAMAGE ANALYSIS & SAFETY Finish Masters (formerly Refinish Solutions), Springfield, VA WIND NOISE & WATER LEAKS Radley Chevrolet, Fredericksburg, VA

www.i-car.com or (800) 422-7872 for info

April 2016

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April 2016

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Joel Gausten

EDITOR’S

(973) 600-9288 tgpjoel@verizon.net

MESSAGE NOW WHAT?

This month’s issue of Hammer & Dolly features the remaining results from the latest installment of WMABA’s Labor Rate Survey. I encourage anyone reading this to take the time to check out the feature that begins on page 35 and see how close this information mirrors the day-to-day experiences at your shop. Between this issue and what we presented last month, the Survey results offer vast insight into the current standing of the collision repair industry in your region.

If you’ve been following (or – better yet – participating in) the annual Survey, you’ll notice that very little has changed since the last time it was conducted. As WMABA Executive Director Jordan Hendler notes on page 36, it is difficult to deny that conditions in the Washington Metropolitan market are “stagnant.” Shop owners across the country tell me that they are working harder than ever before – and taking in more vehicles to repair – simply to stay where they are. There isn’t a single businessperson on this planet who doesn’t want to grow, and there is very little logic in staying in one of the most demanding professions in the world simply to run in place.

So...where does the local industry go from here? Forward. Together.

WMABA OFFICERS PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT

TREASURER SECRETARY

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Mark Schaech, Jr. mark@marksbodyshop.com 410-358-5155 Torchy Chandler torchy.chandler@gmail.com 410-309-2242 Barry Dorn bdorn@dornsbodyandpaint.com 804-746-3928 Phil Rice phil@ricewoods.com 540-846-6617 Don Beaver Dbeaver@antwerpenauto.com 443-539-4200 ext. 17061

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Rodney Bolton (rbolton@aacps.org) 443-386-0066 Kevin Burt (kevinburt@walkermillcollision.com) 301-336-1140 RT Plate (rt@pcirepair.com) 703-929-8050

ADMINISTRATION

Barbara Chase (barbara@siskautobody.com) 301-855-5525 Ben Gibson (bgibson@harrisonbodyworks.com) 804-355-8151

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jordan Hendler (jordanhendler@wmaba.com) 804-789-9649 WMABA CORPORATE OFFICE P.O. Box 3157 • Mechanicsville, VA 23116

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Don’t look at the results presented in this month’s issue as a negative; view them as an opportunity to work harder alongside your fellow industry members to turn things around. WMABA has an extraordinarily active agenda planned for the next several months, including various endeavors in the Legislature. Every step the association takes is a step towards improving the auto body field. As I’ve mentioned in this space many times before, changing things for the better in this industry is a long and frustrating ordeal, but it is a journey worth taking. Nothing can change the results of this year’s Survey, but the WMABA community now has several months to make things better for the next round. If you would like information on how you can help WMABA strengthen the collision repair field in your area, please reach out to Jordan Hendler at jordanhendler@wmaba.com or (804) 789-9649. H&D

April 2016

STAFF

PUBLISHER DIRECTOR OF SALES EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR ART DIRECTOR OFFICE MANAGER

Thomas Greco thomas@grecopublishing.com

Alicia Figurelli alicia@grecopublishing.com

Joel Gausten tgpjoel@verizon.net

Jacquelyn Bauman jacquelyn@grecopublishing.com

Lea Velocci lea@grecopublishing.com

Donna Greco donna@grecopublishing.com

PUBLISHED BY TGP, Inc. 244 Chestnut St., Suite 202 Nutley, NJ 07110 973-667-6922 FAX 973-235-1963 Reproduction of any portions of this publication is specifically prohibited without written permission from the publisher. The opinions and ideas appearing in this magazine are not necessarily representations of TGP Inc. or of the Washington Metropolitan Auto Body Association (WMABA). Copyright © 2016 Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc.

Unsurpassed Quality.

Genuine Hyundai Parts.

HYUNDAI IS PROUD OF ITS REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND SERVICE.

SO ARE THE DEALERS AND BODY SHOPS WHO RELY ON GENUINE HYUNDAI PARTS.

TO MAKE CERTAIN THAT YOU GET THE RIGHT HYUNDAI PART, ASK FOR THE WHOLESALE PARTS SPECIALIST AT THESE FINE DEALERS. Buy Hyundai Parts.

For Genuine Hyundai parts, contact these Authorized Hyundai Dealers.

Fairfax Hyundai 10925 Fairfax Blvd.

Fairfax, VA 22030 Phone: 703-273-5188 FAX: 703-352-3115 E-mail: parts@fairfaxhyundaiinc.com

Malloy Hyundai 1880 Opitz Blvd.

Woodbridge, VA 22191 Parts Direct: 703-490-8263 Fax: 703-490-3864 E-mail: hmkparts@aol.com

Bob Bell Hyundai 7125 Ritchie Highway Glen Burnie, MD 20161 Phone: 410-689-3038 Fax: 410-766-1275 www.bobbellhyundai.com

Fitzgerald Lakeforest Hyundai 905 North Frederick Ave. Gaithersburg, MD 20879 Phone: 301-670-4881 Fax: 301-670-1595

Checkered Flag Hyundai 3033 Virginia Beach Blvd.

Virginia Beach, VA 23452 Phone: 757-687-3463 Fax: 757-687-3468 hyundai.checkeredflag.com

Antwerpen Hyundai 12431 Auto Drive Clarksville, MD 21029 Parts Direct: 443-367-4145 Fax: 443-367-4125 E-mail: bgonce@antwerpenauto.com www.antwerpenhyundaiclarksville.com

April 2016

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S

MESSAGE

Jordan Hendler

(804) 789-9649 jordanhendler@wmaba.com

TESTIFYING FOR COLLISION REPAIRERS:

INVIGORATING! What is so wrong with giving consumers an informed option to make their own parts decisions?!

As you can well imagine, it is a position of pressure to testify in the Legislature regarding something that would benefit consumers.

The customers of our industry, and how they are treated by their insurance company, are on the line. Though our intentions are always in question, we are steadfast in protecting their investment, on which we work hard to repair properly – and with the best parts and materials available.

Being personally attacked really doesn’t bother me at all. What bothers me most is the intensity in which our opposition goes against what we know to be the best effort in consumer education we can give. Having someone say that you are a “mumser” (look it up), liar, only there for financial gain or even that you are manipulating examples to make a point is just plain pitiful. It tells me not only that we are right to pursue the effort, but that the opposition will do everything in their power to protect their way of doing business.

They have investors who care more about the return than doing what is right and just.

The information gleaned from more than an hour of testimony from both sides – as well as many great questions from legislators – should be beneficial to other states, other associations and national influences in seeing what the issues are and how they are represented. If these nuggets of truth and lies aren’t discussed at the highest levels, that is an absolute shame!

Saying that OEM parts have been shown to cause more deaths and recalls than aftermarket parts is absolutely ludicrous. Let’s nail down the truth here: There is no method of recall and no current testing of aftermarket parts.

Saying that the collision industry basically exists because these aftermarket parts are available is also completely false. (As if I had to say that in writing.) While they have their place in the industry, it isn’t without disclosure and knowingly accepting them that the consumer should be subjected to parts that we all know are mostly substandard to the original equipment option.

Getting people in our industry fired up about issues is nearly impossible. Should everyone take the time to watch the hearing online, maybe those odds would change – go to wmaba.com and watch it today! H&D

WMABA Executive Director Jordan Hendler (second from left) testified before the Maryland House Economic Matters Committee on March 10 in support of House Bill 1258. (Screen cap taken from a video stream of the entire hearing, available at tinyurl.com/jr99ya2 by selecting “Economic Matters” and “Thursday, March 10, 2016 Session #1.”)

Check the WMABA website and newsletters for regular updates and reports from the Executive Director’s perspective.

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THANKS

YOU WMABA thanks their generous supporters of the

LEVEL 1

Corporate Sponsor Program for 2016!

We encourage YOUR SUPPORT of those who SUPPORT US! For more information about the sponsorship program, please contact Executive Director Jordan Hendler at (804) 789-9649 or email jordanhendler@wmaba.com

www.wmaba.com

LEVEL 2 3M Automotive Aftermarket Automotive Training Institute Certified Automotive Parts Association FinishMaster Mid-Atlantic Paint & Supply National Coatings and Supplies

April 2016

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WHAT’S

The Playbook

UP TO? WMABA MEMBERSHIP: THE UN-SECRET PLAYBOOK

It’s always a good time to get involved in WMABA. If you’re reading this, your first benefit is already being realized: Staying up to date on the news in our area and beyond.

Get Your Team Jersey

Supporting WMABA is an investment in the future of your business and your industry. By becoming a member, you are represented in all the places the Board or executive director go. Whether at a trade show like SEMA, assisting with the SCRS OEM Technology Summit regarding certified repairs or locally at the state capitol meeting legislators or testifying at a hearing, your interests and the interests of all repairers are at the forefront. Though repairers often feel competitive, the association is a place for camaraderie and community. Here, we’re all on the same team.

Get Educated

WMABA offers issue-specific, topic-driven education throughout the year. Participation in special events and local meetings, such as the Audi Training Center-hosted seminar and tour, offers your business the best in opportunities to advance your understanding of changes within our industry.

MEMBER TESTIMONIALS

The two obvious benefits of belonging to WMABA are: 1) Keeping up to date on industry events, challenges and technical changes, and 2) Networking with industry shop owners and vendors. The not-so-obvious benefit is that we as shop owners can unify to make a change. Being a member assures each of us that we are not ‘the only one’ dealing with these issues. WMABA is the only association focused on making this industry better for the collision shop owners and technicians. No other organization can make that claim. Most of them just follow the money. Put your money where it counts – join WMABA! - Bill Denny, Bill Denny’s Automotive, Inc., Havre de Grace, MD

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April 2016

Find more association updates at www.wmaba.com.

The association is your resource for all things related to your business. Whether you have a question about current Labor Rate data, operations, customer interaction, insurer relationships, vendor products or national news, your association is the place to ask first.

Through our relationships nationally, we can even take issues to the forefront of places such as the Society of Collision Repair Specialists, Collision Industry Conference or national contacts for insurers and vendors.

Locally, we research governmental regulations and oversight to make sure the repair industry is protected from any negative legislation. Represented in both Virginia and Maryland, WMABA proposes and opposes recommended bills that come into the legislature during open session. Also, we work with consumer-related entities, government agencies and other related industry organizations to ensure that the voices of the repairer and their customer are heard.

Many repairers take advantage of the knowledge and community the association has for navigating situations that arise. A simple phone call or email can circumvent many issues our members encounter.

Call the Game

As a member, you decide your personal level of participation. Do you have interest in committees that address particular issues you feel passionately about? Would you want to be a Board member and assist in guiding the direction of the association? How about sitting on the sidelines so you can focus on your own business? All answers can be correct! While WMABA would like to encourage your spirit of volunteerism, it is solely up to you at what level you get involved.

The minimum is getting your membership. This year can WIN with your commitment to the betterment of your business and your industry. Sign up today! H&D

WMABA keeps us in touch with what is happening in our industry, from class action lawsuits to pending legislation in our state and the whole country. Our membership helps us remember that we are not the only ones facing the discouraging burdens and issues out there. It reminds us that if we all stick together, we can make a change for the better.

Their coverage of PartsTrader, well before it hit home, was invaluable. They even went to the State and tried to make it unlawful for insurance companies to require it. They are working hard for us on things that all body shop owners care deeply about, but don’t have the time to stand up and fight.

- Barbara Chase, Sisk Auto Body, Owings, MD

I joined WMABA the very first year I opened my shop. I was immediately embraced by both colleagues and mentors who provided me the fellowship to know I wasn't the only one facing the challenges before me, advice that provided clarity and confidence to make the decisions that would guide my business and a network that I could call on repeatedly over the years I have been a member. WMABA's ability to educate the collision repair industry, speak on its behalf and lobby for issues that affect it has been - and is to this day - the greatest value I have received from any association of which I have been a member.

- Mark Boudreau, Spectrum Collision Center, Arlington, VA

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April 2016

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For Genuine Subaru Body Parts, contact these Authorized Subaru Dealers.

Wilkins Subaru 6913 Ritchie Hwy #2 Glen Burnie, MD 21061 410-689-8066 Fax: 410-689-8008 subparts@wilkinsautomotive.com www.wilkinssubaru.com

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April 2016

Fitzgerald Lakeforest Subaru 905 North Frederick Ave. Gaithersburg, MD 20879 Phone: 301-670-4881 Fax: 301-670-1595

Contact these Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealers for all your parts needs: BOB BELL FORD 7125 RITCHIE HWY, GLEN BURNIE, MD 20161 Phone: 410-689-3038 Fax: 410-766-1275 www.bobbell.com

SHEEHY FORD 5000 AUTH RD, MARLOW HEIGHTS, MD 20746 Phone: 301-899-6300 Fax: 301-702-3650 www.sheehyford.com

WALDORF FORD 2440 CRAIN HWY, WALDORF, MD 20601 Phone: 301-843-3028 Fax: 301-843-0334 e-mail: parts@waldorfford.com www.waldorfford.com

HAGERSTOWN FORD 1714 MASSEY BLVD, HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740 Phone: 800-200-0276 Fax: 301-733-0603 www.hagerstownford.com

KOONS FORD OF ANNAPOLIS 2540 RIVA ROAD ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401 Phone: 410-266-3083 Fax: 410-224-4239 www.koonsford.com

© 2016, Ford Motor Company

April 2016

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Industry leaders offer funds and more to area schools.

BY JOEL GAUSTEN

LOCAL

NEWS WMABA PLEDGES SUPPORT TO AUTO BODY EDUCATORS In the ever-changing world of collision repair, building a strong workforce for the future is more important than ever. And when vocational school instructors are having trouble with funding equipment or placing students with quality shops, they can depend on the Washington Metropolitan Auto Body Association to help.

This was the major message driving WMABA Executive Director Jordan Hendler’s presentation to auto body educators and school officials at a special Professional Development Meeting on March 11 at Criswell Collision Center in Annapolis. Hosted by the Maryland State Department of Education, the gathering allowed collision repair instructors and other industry educators throughout the state to meet with the Department to discuss their programs’ aims and any needs they have in strengthening their

Teresa Bolton (ASE) participated in the Professional Development Meeting.

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April 2016

ability to prepare students for the road ahead.

With the current auto body industry facing an aging and decreasing employee base, Hendler and the WMABA Board of Directors have made a commitment to building greater lines of communication with the school systems that support tomorrow’s technicians. This effort includes direct outreach to the vocational schools to see how the association can help find funding for I-CAR programs and other training tools necessary to ensure that entry-level staff have the skills needed to build long-lasting careers.

“It’s not like you guys don’t have the opportunity to put people out there [in the industry],” she told the instructors in attendance. “I think what’s missing is our connection and being the possible middleman in helping to get your students placed. No matter where your school is, we’re going to have people around you.”

WMABA’s work to assist educational programs in member states includes the Jerry Dalton Memorial Education Fund, a long-running association initiative that currently boasts more than $100,000 in available funds for qualifying schools. While the WMABA community actively supports the Fund through the annual WMABA Golf Outing (scheduled this year for June 22), Hendler revealed that area instructors have yet to embrace this special opportunity.

“We put out the request for scholarship applications and school applications for grants to help with a specific need,” she said. “Does anybody want to guess the number of applications I got last year? None.”

“We have longstanding relationships with local and national people,” she added. “We

WMABA's Jordan Hendler urged instructors to reach out to the association if they need help.

want to help, but we don’t get asked for help. If there is something you need, don’t think we’re too busy to help schools. There’s been a disconnect between what the association can do in not just putting students in the shops, but also in helping with the school itself. That is something that we actively want to do.”

Hendler noted that any request from a school that might exceed the association’s budget for assistance could be addressed by the greater industry through a call to action in Hammer & Dolly and other WMABA communications.

“There’s no limitation to what can be asked for,” she said. “You guys shouldn’t have to make a decision between what programs you’re going to use because of the money. As an association, that’s where we can significantly help.”

Hendler also shared feedback she has received from WMABA members regarding their recent experiences with new recruits fresh out of school.

“One thing I would give to you as a takeaway would be that I get a lot of shops that say that people coming into our industry don’t know how to research,” she said. “They know how to Google; they all have [a Smartphone] and are on them all the time. Teach them how to find repair procedures...Technicians don’t need to know everything, but they have to know where to find it.”

The Professional Development Meeting also featured presentations by Teresa Bolton (director of collision repair test development for ASE) and Wanda Bloomer (manager of continued on page 45

April 2016

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April 2016

April 2016

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Gearing up for the Society’s second quarter.

BY JOEL GAUSTEN

SCRS INDUSTRY WEEK SET FOR SEATTLE

With the winter of 2016 now a memory, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will usher in the new season by heading west to Seattle, WA later this month for “SCRS Industry Week,” a variety of unique events designed to provide incomparable education and networking opportunities to shops nationwide.

SCRS’ slate of special activities will start on April 19 with the annual Board elections. In order to be considered for a position, an industry member must be available to attend five SCRS meetings throughout the year and participate in frequent email communications with other Board members, who typically serve two three-year terms.

“It’s a fairly significant commitment,” explains SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg. “That means time away from businesses and families. The amount of communication that goes on within SCRS really is considerable, even in comparison to other organizations that are out there. Our Board of Directors is very actively involved in everything that we’re doing. We have a group of folks who are really passionate about making a difference and being involved in those discussions and participating in that way.” In addition to incumbent Kye Yeung (CA), new nominees include Trace Coccimiglio (UT), Dave Gruskos (NJ), Jeff Kallemeyn (IL) and Tim Ronak (CA).

On April 20, the SCRS Repairer Roundtable will host representatives from Toyota, Audi, Tesla and I-CAR for an interactive discussion on the

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April 2016

in-person training requirements and expectations for many of today’s OEM programs.

“We want to give the audience access to the hands-on trainers in this industry from an OEM standpoint,” Schulenburg says. “There are a lot of OEMs that do in-person training and testing with technicians as part of their certification requirements. We think these trainers have an interesting perspective; they get to see exactly what our industry brings to the table both before and after the training. They can give insight into what they’re looking for, but also give their thoughts on the areas that we, as an industry, really need to work on.”

Later that day, SCRS will present a special Industry Awards and Corporate Member Recognition ceremony, which Schulenburg sees as a chance for the group to honor those who go above and beyond in supporting the collision repair community throughout the year.

“The objective is to recognize all the people out there who are doing really remarkable work on behalf of the industry,” he says. “We all love the event because it’s so positive and gives us a chance to spotlight all the great work that’s going on out there. It’s also an opportunity for us to recognize our Corporate Members, who are integral to making the work of SCRS go around. We are able to do a lot because of the support we receive from these companies.” (Information on the SCRS award categories can be found at tinyurl.com/z3cxzfb.)

In addition to these special events, the SCRS Open Meeting on

continued on page 44

WE KNOW WHAT YOU’RE THINKING. YOU WANT TO KNOW IF THE PART’S IN STOCK, HOW MUCH IT COSTS, AND WHEN IT’S GONNA GET THERE. We get it.

You want the best part for a Toyota, but you’ve got to know when and how much.

Well, now you can. In addition to tools that can help you find and order the right VIN-based parts, now you can see if it’s in stock, schedule the delivery, even see your shop’s net price from your participating Toyota Dealer.* Now you’re thinking: “Cool!”

ToyotaPartsAndService.com

©2014 Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

For Toyota Genuine Parts please call one of these authorized local Toyota Dealers: Jerry’s Toyota 8001 Belair Road Baltimore, MD 21236 Toll Free: 877-838-5114 Direct: 410-661-4610 FAX: 443-455-1453 www.jerrystoyota.com

Koons Tysons Toyota 8610 Leesburg Pike Vienna, VA 22182 Phone: 703-790-8310 Fax: 703-356-9081 www.koons.com

R&H Toyota 15 Music Fair Road Owings Mills, MD 21117 Direct: 410-363-4502 Toll Free: 1-866-692-2787 Fax: 410-902-1998 toyotawholesale@rhemail.com

Alexandria Toyota 3750 Jefferson Davis Highway Alexandria, VA 22305 Toll Free: 800-766-9767 Phone: 703-836-8476 Fax: 703-684-3468 www.alexandriatoyota.com

Antwerpen Toyota 12420 Auto Drive Clarksville, MD 21029 Phone: 410-988-9272 Fax: 443-539-4022 darnold@antwerpenauto.com

Checkered Flag Toyota 5301 Virginia Beach Boulevard Virginia Beach, VA 23462 PH: 757-687-3443 FAX: 757-687-3437 www.checkeredflag.com

Ourisman Fairfax Toyota 10441 Lee Highway Fairfax, VA 22030 Toll Free: 800-626-2236 Direct: 703-273-2236 Fax: 703-385-8411 fairfaxparts@ourismanva.com www.ourismanva.com

Younger Toyota 1935 Dual Highway Hagerstown, MD 21740 Phone: 800-296-1190 Fax: 301-733-5465

Waldorf Toyota 2600 Crain Highway Waldorf, MD 20601 Direct: 301-843-6075 Fax: 301-645-9124

Koons Toyota Annapolis 1107 West Street Annapolis,MD 21401 Phone:(800)262-3330 Fax:(410)280-6361

partsdepartment@toyotaofwaldorf.com

roy.easter@koons.com

dthompson@youngertoyota.com

www.toyotaofwaldorf.com

April 2016

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THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER WAY TO BUY THE WORLD’S BEST ENGINEERED PARTS. For Original BMW Parts, contact one of these authorized BMW centers: BMW of Annapolis 25 Old Mill Bottom Road Annapolis, MD 21409 410-349-2565 Fax:410-349-2586 www.mybmwannapolis.com

BMW of Fairfax 2805 Old Lee Highway Fairfax, VA 22031 800-879-2269 Fax: 703-641-8562 www.bmwoffairfax.com

BMW of Alexandria 499 South Pickett Street Alexandria,VA 22304 Direct: 703-684-5255 Fax: 703-647-1853 www.bmwofalexandria.com

Passport BMW 5000 Auth Way Marlow Heights, MD 20746 301-423-0733 Fax: 301-423-2717 www.passportbmw.com

Apple BMW of York 1370 Roosevelt Ave. York, PA 17404 800-839-1755 Fax: 717-843-2948 www.applebmwofyork.com

BMW of Sterling 21826 Pacific Blvd.

Sterling, VA 20166 888-954-8222 Fax: 571-434-7727 www.bmwofsterling.com

BMW of Silver Spring 3211 Automobile Blvd Silver Spring, MD 20904 866-737-8937 Direct: 301-890-3015 Fax: 301-890-3748 www.bmwofsilverspring.com

Northwest BMW 9702 Reisterstown Rd Owings Mills, MD 21117 410-363-1461 Fax: 410-363-7749 www.northwestbmw.com

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April 2016

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BMW of Towson 700 Kenilworth Drive Towson, MD 21204 410.296.7908 Fax: 410.296.4852 www.bmwtowson.com

BMW of Bel Air 1705 Conowingo Road (US 1 in Hickory) Bel Air, MD 21014 443.640.1230 Fax: 443.640.1234 www.bmwbelair.com

Richmond BMW 8710 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23294 800-237-0130 Direct: 804-527-6860 Fax: 804-965-6254 www.richmondbmw.com

BMW of Rockville 1396 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852 301-984-8989 Fax: 301-984-1710 www.bmwrockville.com

BMW of Catonsville 6700 Baltimore National Pike Baltimore, MD 21228 855-996-2906 410-744-2000 Fax: 410-818-2600 www.bmwofcatonsville.com

April 2016

25

TECHNICIAN OF

THE MONTH

Hammer & Dolly chats with the WMABA community’s best and brightest.

BY JACQUELYN BAUMAN

If you would like to nominate someone as Technician of the Month, please contact Hammer & Dolly Managing Editor Jacquelyn Bauman at jacquelyn@grecopublishing.com

MANNY SANCHEZ At Springfield Auto Body in Springfield, VA, it is widely known around the shop that Manny Sanchez is the man to go to when you need a big job done the right way.

Sanchez began his career around the age of 18, working at a junkyard and taking the bolts out of scraps.

“I started out just looking for a way to make extra money through a summer job,” he recalls. “I was there for about two years, working my way up and becoming a helper and a body man before I left.”

About eight years ago, Sanchez came upon Springfield Auto Body and has been a shop staple ever since. Being much fonder of framework than anything else, he has become the tech to call upon to handle major jobs that roll into the bay.

“It’s one of my hobbies,” he says of working on frames. “I enjoy it more than bodywork and fixing up dents.”

Despite his love of this type of repair, he notes that it is becoming increasingly difficult as the industry evolves. “[Manufacturers are] using a lot of different metals and every car is individualized, so you can’t expect all of the work to be the same,” he says. “Everything is connected now. You have to replace all of the big parts; you can’t just section a rail. Plus, there are so many airbags and pieces of the puzzle. If you’re doing front-end work, there are so many extra steps. Now, you have to take out the engine and take the dashboard apart. The changes in this industry definitely make it more difficult to do our jobs.”

Even though the automotive repair field is becoming more demanding, Sanchez is up for the task. He cites his reputation at the shop as one of the reasons he believes he was chosen for Technician of the Month.

“When I’m here, I get all of the big hits,” he explains. “If something needs the rails replaced or needs serious framework done, I’m the one it goes to.”

When he’s not in the shop, Sanchez enjoys spending time with his wife, Sonia, and children Emily (16), Alex (13) and Dayanna (3), noting that going to cookouts and attending church every Sunday are among his favorite activities with them.

As for the future of the automotive repair field, Sanchez predicts that much of the work in this industry will shift from “replace” to “repair.”

“The future of our work isn’t going to be easy,” he states. “Cars are changing. When it comes to the big accidents and a lot of work in frontend jobs, the way they’re manufacturing cars is going to make it harder to do what we do. I see a lot of total losses in the future.”

Regardless of what tomorrow holds, Sanchez is thankful for the

26

April 2016

time he has put into the automotive repair industry and the When a “big job” comes into the shop, people he has enManny Sanchez is the one to call. countered along the way.

“My manager, Tom [Butterworth], has given me so much help and has always been there and supported me,” he says. “He’s such a big help and always has patience with me. I’m very grateful for that.” H&D

April 2016

27

28

April 2016

COVER STORY

WMABA fights for consumers through legislation on aftermarket parts.

BY JOEL GAUSTEN

PROTECTING CONSUMERS: Parts Hearing Reveals Industry Truths and Lies

The welds don't lie: A look at the difference between an OEM part and an aftermarket version

Are consumer parts choices on new cars something that needs protection? How about knowingly consenting to the use of non-OEM or non-certified aftermarket?

On March 10, representatives from the Washington Metropolitan Auto Body Association appeared before legislators in Annapolis to promote passage of a critical consumer protection bill that would limit the use of aftermarket parts during the repair process. Minutes later, spokespeople from LKQ and some of the industry’s top insurers protested what they claimed was an attempt by body shops to help build an unfair monopoly in support of OEM products. With battle lines drawn deeper (and emotions spoken louder) than ever before, lawmakers were left to soon decide the fate of one of the most controversial legislative showdowns in industry history.

The cause of the commotion is Maryland House Bill 1258, a bill sponsored

by Delegate Rick Impallaria that aims to establish that only genuine crash parts April 2016

29

WMABA's Mark Schaech, Jr. and Jordan Hendler with Delegate Rick Impallaria (center)

“sufficient to maintain the manufacturer’s warranty for fit, finish, structural integrity, corrosion resistance, dent resistance and crash performance” shall be used in the repair of insured motor vehicles for the first two years of that automobile’s life. After that two-year period, an insurer may not require repairs to be made to the insured motor vehicle using aftermarket parts or crash parts that are not certified. An insured may consent in writing at the time of repair of his or her vehicle to the use of “aftermarket crash parts or crash parts that are not certified aftermarket crash parts.”

During the special March 10 House Economic Matters Committee hearing on the proposed bill, Impallaria (a former body shop owner) broke the aftermarket parts issue down in relatable terms for his fellow legislators.

“I have a Rolex watch; my house gets robbed [and] the insurance for the house covers the watch,” he offered as a hypothetical situation.

“But the insurance company says, ‘There’s this other watch and it says ‘Rolex’ on it, and it’s [of] like kind and quality and you should accept that and take that.’ I think that you should get what you actually pay for.”

Representing an industry of 1,000-plus independently owned businesses in Maryland and more than $755 million in taxable revenue to the state, WMABA Executive Director Jordan Hendler warned Committee members that the use of aftermarket parts could have a lasting negative impact on consumers.

“When they have a lease or a factory warranty on their vehicle, [the] provisions of the lease agreement would state they put original equipment parts back on that car or they would have to pay the difference,” she offered. “If they return that leased vehicle with aftermarket parts on it and it is noted on the lease return, they will have to pay to re-repair the vehicle out of pocket again, or they will have the pay a fine – in other words, the difference in value of the

30

April 2016

vehicle with or without the original equipment parts. When those consumers purchase a vehicle and get insurance or lease a vehicle, they assume, as a consumer, that the insurance company is going to make them whole after an accident.”

These concerns were echoed in additional testimony given by WMABA President Mark Schaech, Jr. “Every day in my store, someone has to dig in their pocket to pay the difference for their bill between the OEM parts and aftermarket parts...In my 18 years of experience in the shop as a technician and a shop owner, I can tell you that that the parts are not equivalent; they’re not the same,” he said.

To add a physical perspective to the issue, Hendler and Schaech presented an OEM rebar and a version of the same item from LKQ. Hendler noted inconsistencies in welding between the two parts, while Impallaria noted that the parts make “two totally different sounds” when struck with a metal object because of substantial variations in the thickness and tensile strength of the steels.

“The aftermarket rebar in this case has major manufacturer flaws,” noted Schaech. “If you look at it, you can see how cheaply this thing is made.”

Not surprisingly, the opposition’s response was fierce and dramatic.

“This is not a bill to protect the consumer...

It is a bill for a two-year monopoly,” argued LKQ lobbyist Bruce Bereano.

One of the afternoon’s most contentious moments came when Ray Colas, a government affairs representative for LKQ, directly criticized WMABA’s presentation.

“Jordan Hendler specified that she represents many people here who provide tax dollars for the state,” he said. “You need to understand that they’re in business today because we enable them to be able to repair their vehicle. In terms of total loss calculation, we keep vehicles on the road; we allow them to repair vehicles because we keep it below that threshold. If we’re not here to provide that type of service, you would have more total loss vehicles and they would not be able to repair those vehicles.

“We can provide you with images of people who have died due to the use of OEM parts, but yet they can’t provide you with images of people who have [been] victims of these parts that they’re presenting to you today,” he added.

Additionally, Colas called the rebar demonstration “theatrics,” going as far as suggesting that the parts might have been manipulated to produce the desired effect.

“We don’t know the history of those parts, whether they’re part of the same vehicle or not [or] whether they were modified before they got here.”

Unimpressed, Impallaria called Colas’ argument “a little over the top.”

In addition to WMABA, testimony in favor of House Bill 1258 was provided by Jack Gillis of the Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) and Travis Martz of the Maryland Automobile Dealers Association. Additional opponents included Allstate and State Farm.

The text of the bill is available at tinyurl.com/ hbvwj3s. A video stream of the entire hearing is available at tinyurl.com/jr99ya2 by selecting “Economic Matters” and “Thursday, March 10, 2016 Session #1” The discussion on the bill begins approximately 135 minutes in. H&D

Executive Director’s Thoughts

While the personal thoughts of my testifying experience are covered in my Executive Director’s Message on page 12, I’d like to include some segments of our opposition’s testimony. So, fact or fiction? You decide: ● ● ● ●

The body shops are only doing this for the money.

The bill creates a monopoly for the car manufacturers.

Aftermarket parts are safer than the OE parts.

Requiring written consent depends on the body shop owner and will steer the consumer to an original part. ● The body shops are in business today because of aftermarket parts. ● The disclosure language already required on the estimate should be sufficient to inform the consumer.

By the time this story reaches you as readers, there will either be advancement or death to this legislation.

Several of the Delegates present for the hearing asked great questions. That, to WMABA, is a win in and of itself. The more these and other issues are brought before them, the more they are aware of our industry and some of the problems we face.

Being present to promote positive legislative initiatives and oppose any attempts at negative laws is what makes the association’s continued monitoring absolutely necessary. It is also the reason WMABA encourages our membership and any collision repairer to reach out and gain a relationship with all their legislative representatives. The association does not have a bill every year that they promote, but every year there is monitoring and discussion of any automotive-related proposals.

This hearing specifically shows the differences in viewpoint among segments of our industry and how they deem the business of collision repair and the materials used in that process. Should you as a reader have or take issue with information put forth by WMABA or the opposition, you are urged to reach out to the association and give your thoughts for consideration by the Board of Directors. - Jordan Hendler

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Ourisman Mazda of Rockville 801 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852 Parts Direct: 301-340-7668 Phone: 855-417-4511 Fax: 240-499-2488 e-mail: rockvilleparts@ourismanautomotive.com www.ourismanmazdaofrockville.com

April 2016

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April 2016

April 2016

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34

April 2016

WMABA FEATURE

Second half of survey results show little movement.

BY JOEL GAUSTEN

Third-party pressure: This year’s Survey saw a nearly 10-percent increase in respondents who told us they feared retribution from insurers if they charged for a fair, reasonable and necessary job that the carrier may not approve of.

April 2016

35

RESPONDENTS SHARE THEIR VIEWS ON STANDARD PROCEDURES “Tint” the color

DO YOU BELIEVE THIS IS A REQUIRED OPERATION?

DO YOU CURRENTLY PERFORM THIS OPERATION?

90.37%

87.41%

93.88%

91.84%

“Materials” to tint the color

“Color, sand and buff” and/or denib surface blemishes

90.97%

93.06%

“Materials” needed to denib or buff a vehicle

94.78%

85.07%

To remove tape or painted stripes before refinishing

95.74%

90.07%

Feather, fill, block and prime on repaired panels

93.20%

93.20%

Feather, fill, block and prime on welded panels

93.53%

92.81%

92.36%

81.94%

“Mark-up” or “admin” on sublet (towing, upholstery, mechanical, pdr, etc.)

Disable and enable “interlock” devices to move vehicles

90.40%

86.40%

“Clips and fasteners” needed in the repair process

94.59%

91.89%

“Bagging” vehicle to “prime” and for “final refinish”

93.79%

93.10%

“Bag” opening to “prime” and for “final refinish”

93.53%

91.37%

“Bonding materials” in the repair process

95.17%

93.79%

“Undercoating,” installation and removal

91.10%

95.21%

“Structural foam,” installation and/or removal

93.66%

94.37%

“Check and test seat belts” being used in the accident

93.18%

87.88%

“Pressure test” cooling systems after front-end damage

93.08%

83.08%

“Prep raw plastic” when recommend by paint supplier

94.59%

93.24%

“Set up and pull” to access repairs

92.47%

94.52%

“Weld thru primer” and/or “cavity wax” when needed

93.15%

93.84%

Replacement of information labels, parts and labor

93.88%

94.56%

Removal and replacement of protective coatings

92.86%

90.00%

Reset memory functions (e.g., radio codes, sensors, etc.)

95.04%

90.07%

“Jig” rental when recommended by vehicle manufacturer

93.83%

55.56%

Repairing “weld burn, including grinding and prepping”

93.18%

93.18%

Still waters run deep.

Although an initial glance at the Labor Rate Survey results that appear on these pages will show very little change over what was presented in our February 2015 issue (available online at tinyurl.com/zrspfo4), a more critical look under the surface reveals a number of issues that require attention from repairers, industry representatives and (quite possibly) legislators.

Clearly, the biggest issue uncovered in the second part of the Survey is just how little the results actually moved from last year — a major point of concern for WMABA. “The industry is very stagnant in many areas,” offers Executive Director Jordan Hendler.

“If the marketplace has not experienced any major shifts in vehicle technology, insurance practices or governmental oversight, then there wouldn’t be reason to expect change in our Surveys. Really, the lack of change is what is so telling; our industry is controlled by outside influences. Unless those influences are compelled in some way, our industry will remain the same. One thing the association is seeing is that independent repairers are having even more difficulty with insurer refusals of both rates or procedures, and that is leading to more complaints to us and – very likely – to the state insurance departments.”

Unfortunately, one thing that did change was the number of Survey participants who said they offered insurance benefits to their employees.

This year saw close to an 11-percent increase in the number of respondents who said they do not offer health insurance to employees, while the number of those who don’t offer dental or vision insurance jumped by nearly 14 and 15 percent, respectively.

“If Labor Rates are not fluctuating, business owners have to contain their rising costs elsewhere; areas such as health insurance, leave or other

Is it necessary to pre-clean most vehicles prior to entering the shop?

Nearly 10 percent more respondents than last year think so.

HOW DO OUR SURVEY PARTICIPANTS FEEL ABOUT INSURER/SHOP RELATIONS? Do you believe insurers rate you on the use of alternative parts to OEM, such as used or aftermarket?

Do you feel many insurers try to control or insert themselves into the repair process, including selection of parts and repair methods used?

Do you have an insurer who requires you to order parts from a particular vendor or through a particular online procurement system?

Do you believe insurer reimbursement rates are fair to support adequate profit for continuing education, certifications and new equipment?

Would (or does) ordering parts or materials through a required third-party bidding system increase your cycle time and customer dissatisfaction?

Have you been told “you are the only one” who charges for what you feel is a legitimate, reasonable and necessary operation?

Do appraiser(s) tell you, “We can’t pay for that because it is against insurance company policy,” even though you knew it was a fair, reasonable and necessary item?

Yes

No

97.20%

2.80%

61.00%

39.00%

7.60%

92.40%

74.10%

25.90%

84.00%

16.00%

95.10%

4.90%

92.40%

Do you feel that after an insurer is notified, that two business days is an adequate time frame for an insurer to come to your shop to inspect, appraise the damage and provide an estimate?

84.20%

Is it your experience that a good portion of insurance company representatives will intentionally write “low ball” estimates that omit obvious visible damage?

Do inadequate or poorly written estimates by insurance company representatives delay the repair process and cost your shop time and money while you rectify mistakes?

Do you feel appraisers intentionally omit vital processes in hopes the shop will not correct and amend the mistake, giving the insurer unfair financial gain?

Have you feared retribution from insurers if you charged for a job performed that you feel is fair, reasonable and necessary, but they may not approve of?

Do you feel insurers are using their “power,” together with a weak economy, in an attempt to coerce shops into accepting less than a fair amount?

Have you experienced an insurer(s) who has declared a vehicle a total loss when you felt the vehicle was an easy, safe repair and the vehicle owner wanted it repaired, but did so because the insurer got a high salvage value?

Do you experience insurers retaining payment, but tell you that you are “holding the car hostage” when they had more than adequate time to issue payment?

Do you feel many insurers’ initial estimates lack proper repair procedures necessary to fix the car to pre-accident condition?

7.60%

15.80%

91.70%

8.30%

99.30%

0.70%

93.00%

7.00%

76.20%

23.80%

90.80%

9.20%

76.10%

23.90%

72.00%

28.00%

94.40%

5.60%

We saw close to a 20-percent increase from last year in Survey participants who said that rental car companies unnecessarily contact them about the status of vehicle repairs, requesting numerous status reports and completion dates.

SURVEY TAKERS REVIEW A NUMBER OF QUESTIONS THAT RELATE TO THEIR DAILY BUSINESS. Is it your experience that blending a panel takes as long, or longer, than refinishing a new undamaged panel?

Does it take more skill and materials to “blend” a panel versus refinish a full panel?

Is “clean up” time necessary on most “LKQ” or used parts?

Can you blend or melt clear coat within a panel and give a lifetime warranty?

Is it necessary to pre-clean most vehicles prior to entering the shop?

Given the advancements in system compatibility, should you have the freedom of choice for your estimating system provider?

Yes

No

95.10%

4.90%

95.90%

4.10%

96.50%

3.50%

6.30%

93.70%

76.60%

23.40%

99.30%

0.70%

Do used structural parts (e.g., quarter panel, hinge pillar, rocker panel, radiator support and apron or frame rails) take more “trim” time than new parts? 99.30%

Do you feel that modern vehicles (with boron steel, structural aluminum, multiple airbags, collision avoidance systems, laser welds, etc.) are more difficult to work on than older vehicles without those similar characteristics?

98.60%

Do you feel colors on newer vehicles are more difficult to match than those 5-10 years older?

80.40%

Do rental car companies unnecessarily contact you about the status of vehicle repairs, requesting numerous status reports and completion dates?

91.60% Would you prefer an itemized calculator for materials based on a computer software program (e.g., PaintEx, PMCLogic, etc.) versus compensation based on current random multipliers using an hourly rate?

Have you been able to provide across-the-board increases in the pay and benefits of your employees in the past five (5) years?

April 2016

0.70%

1.40% 19.60% 8.40%

73.90%

26.10%

17.90%

82.10%

37

The number of respondents who said they did NOT offer vision insurance rose nearly 15 percent from last year.

Need your teeth fixed? You might have to wait.

A nearly 14-percent increase from last year was reported in the number of respondents who said they do NOT offer dental insurance.

The number of respondents who said they do NOT offer health insurance to employees was up nearly 11 percent this year.

WHICH BENEFITS DO RESPONDING BUSINESS OWNERS PAY FOR? Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Long-term Disability Life Insurance Paid sick leave (after a set period) Paid vacation (after a set period) Personal leave (after a set period) 401K or retirement program Performance Bonus Yearly cost of living increase(s)

benefits would be places to see change,” Hendler explains.

Additionally, there was a considerable spike in respondents who noted that rental car companies unnecessarily contact them about the status of vehicle repairs, requesting numerous status reports and completion dates.

What are some possible reasons for the trend?

“Everyone wants answers now,” Hendler replies. “It’s the unfortunate side effect from electronic everything – we are used to having instant gratification. Those rental agencies are reporting to insurers, and this information is pushed back on them to keep the overall length of rental down wherever possible.”

Perhaps worst of all, the Survey results display a nearly 10-percent increase from last year in “yes” answers to the question, “Have you feared retribution from insurers if you

38

April 2016

Yes, fully paid 7.59% 3.47% 3.47% 2.84% 13.38% 37.06% 84.14% 36.55% 20.98% 35.42% 7.75%

charged for a job performed that you feel is fair, reasonable and necessary, but they may not approve of?” In Hendler’s mind, it is clear that today’s auto body industry is struggling under the influence of outside parties.

“Pressure by insurance companies to reduce costs and repair times but still produce the same results can leave owners and managers fearful of the retribution of standing up for procedures or policies that the customer would also want,” she says. “Using the association to be their voice can be a way of protection for their business to still potentially address an issue without hurting a relationship.

Oftentimes, WMABA has national connections that would garner results over the top of local management decisions. It helps to at least get the word to the top that the marketplace is experiencing problems.”

While the information in this issue (as

Yes, partially paid 54.48% 29.86% 24.31% 17.02% 14.08% 20.98% 8.96% 8.97% 28.67% 13.19% 7.04%

No 37.93% 66.67% 72.22% 80.14% 72.54% 41.96% 6.90% 54.48% 50.35% 51.39% 85.21%

well as last month’s edition) indicates frustratingly slow progress in the some areas, it can be used

by WMABA as ammunition to demonstrate why there is a need for market practices reform throughout the region. It may not be pretty, but the Survey shows the truth, and that will be the key to the association – and the industry it serves – receiving greater assistance at the State House and beyond. H&D WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE SURVEY RESULTS? DO THEY REPRESENT WHAT’S GOING ON AT YOUR BUSINESS?

Let us know what you think.

Contact WMABA Executive Director Jordan Hendler at (804) 789-9649 / jordanhendler@ wmaba.com and/or Hammer & Dolly Editor Joel Gausten at (973) 600-9288/tgpjoel@verizon.net.

April 2016

39

Getting to know the industry pros who work on your behalf.

MEET THE

BOARD

BY JACQUELYN BAUMAN

BEN GIBSON

“We need to get people involved in the association.

People need to appreciate what WMABA brings to the table instead of just being involved in what’s happening in their own little world.”

- Ben Gibson

40

With nearly four decades of experience owning and operating collision repair shops, WMABA Board member Ben Gibson certainly knows what it takes to be successful. In 1978 at just 19 years old, he opened Progressive Collision in Chester, VA with his close friend and business partner, Joe Corbin. While Joe still runs Progressive Collision, Gibson branched out on his own in 1985 and opened Harrison Body Works in Richmond.

Since Gibson had already been a member of the Virginia Auto Body Association, joining WMABA made sense to him.

“I’ve always been close with [Treasurer] Barry [Dorn] and [Executive Director] Jordan [Hendler], and they really made the decision easy for me,” he says of joining WMABA. In 2010, Gibson first joined the Board of Directors in order to assist with the growth of what was then the new WMABA Richmond Chapter.

“We need to get people involved in the association,” he expresses. “People need to appreciate what WMABA brings to the table instead of just being involved in what’s happening in their own little world.

Jordan works tirelessly on your behalf to make this a better industry for all of us. It’s hard to get much accomplished unless we have that support.

You have to be involved in the industry on a bigger level if you want anything to get better.”

As an example of branching out of the industry in a larger way, Gibson was featured in a local news segment last May about the use of unfit aftermarket parts in repairs, a practice conducted due to pressure from insurers. He believes that it is through educating the consumer that significant strides can be made.

“The fight needs to be brought into the

April 2016

public arena,” he says. “We have consumers who are being blindly led into important decisions by people who they think have their best interests in mind and know what they’re talking about. But [these people] are really just steering them to the shops where they have the most control. It’s important that they know what’s going on.”

However, education doesn’t end at the consumer. Gibson keeps his staff equipped with the most up-to-date training and the most efficient tools on the market in order to keep everything working smoothly in his shop. As an I-CAR Committee chairman, Gibson often hosts training courses at his 15,000-square-foot facility, something he has done since the early ’90s.

Despite his commitment to continuing knowledge, Gibson does admit that the information available is certainly lacking.

“Every car now is different,” he says. “The dissemination of education just isn’t there. Even if you’re close with the OEs and can access the information, it’s not as comprehensive as we would like.”

This is just one of the fields in which Gibson believes there needs to be action to improve the automotive repair industry.

“If we don’t push ourselves and our industry, the people who will push us aren’t going to be people we like,” he opines. “It’s just more reason to get involved in WMABA. There are good shops out there being put between a rock and a hard place on a daily basis. The association is where we come together to fight all of those outside influences working to control us. It’s the only vehicle to bring people together and make things better. It’s a tough ride, but it’s better together.”

H&D

April 2016

41

Mark Schaech, Jr.

(410) 358-5155 mark@marksbodyshop.com

PRESIDENT’S

MESSAGE LOSING SLEEP

Our government ensures that vehicles being introduced to the market pass the most stringent safety standards and crash testing. But how can repairers across the country reengineer these vehicles by pulling, cutting, welding, riveting, bonding and straightening them on a daily basis without anyone guaranteeing that manufacturers’ standards are being met? Who is making sure that these vehicles are repaired correctly?

As a post-repair inspector, I often find major safety and quality issues in the vehicles I see. In most cases, the insurer comes in and quickly totals these vehicles and (my guess is) dumps them in the laps of the repair facilities that had been contracted by that insurer to do the work.

While I’m not big on government interference in our field, I do see some issues in the way our industry operates that need to be addressed. If shops

were policed in a way similar to how the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversees the airplane repair industry, would we continue to see the same amount of poorly repaired, unsafe automobiles? Would following manufacturer guidelines then become more important? Could it be that flying is the safest way to travel because there is a watchdog when it comes to repairing the planes? This is what I lose sleep over. H&D

WE NEED YOUR LEGISLATIVE CONTRIBUTION! I appreciate WMABA working on my behalf at the state capitol(s)!

Here is my contribution to the legislative efforts.

P.O. Box 3157 • Mechanicsville, VA 23116

Name: ______________________________________Company: __________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________________ City:____________________________________________State: ______________________Zip: ________ Phone:

______________________________Email:

Donation Amount: Check Enclosed

$50

$100

____________________________________________ $500

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NATIONAL NEWS continued from page 22

April 19 will provide attendees with an in-depth update on the association’s activities in the national auto body scene. This includes extensive work to better protect the data generated by estimating system end-users. According to SCRS presentations delivered in January, there are currently more than 600 potential data fields through the Estimate Management Standard (EMS) that can be selected by the receiving parties without restrictions by – or sometimes even the knowledge of – the end-user.

“We continue to conduct research and gather information by talking with companies that have a lot of involvement and insight in those areas,” he explains. “I think that’s proved beneficial in us being able to share that information and educate the industry on questions they should be asking and things they should be looking at. Ideally, we’re after a more intuitive system that gives the end-user the ability to control the data leaving his or her system.”

In other news, SCRS is committed to addressing various industry issues regarding parts usage on the shop level. Schulenburg tells Hammer & Dolly that a number of association members are reporting administrative and cash flow burdens surrounding core charges.

With some facilities facing as much as $10,000 a month in these charges, many shops are now applying administration fees to their work orders with varying success.

“The conversation is ongoing,” Schulenburg says of the core charge dilemma. “We recognize that these are fairly large programs [that have been] put together for a number of specific purposes, and we want to understand the objectives and see if we can offer alternative solutions that produce the same end effect with less burden on the repairer. As we see them grow, it’s important to find some way to help these shops. The situation creates another challenge, another layer of complexity and more administrative and financial strain on the repair business.”

Recent months have also seen SCRS actively investigate the ongoing appearance of “Alt OEM” and “Opt OE” parts in estimating systems. While some OEM manufacturers regularly offer remanufactured or surplus parts, a growing number of suppliers that are not authorized by an OEM are offering “OEM” products that could actually be grey market items not intended for use in the United States. This causes confusion for shops that may not be receiving the legitimate OEM part they believe they’re ordering.

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“What a dealer does in defining certain parts might be different than what an OE does, and there are challenges that also exist for shops that end up going outside of the authorized supply chain,” Schulenburg says.

Late last year, SCRS polled various manufacturers to gain insight into how they conduct legitimate alternative OEM parts programs. The results of this undertaking are available online at tinyurl.com/zbsrsxt (courtesy of Repairer Driven News.)

Also held for SCRS Affiliate Associations – like WMABA – will be a special meeting to discuss association activities around the country as well as ideas for upcoming initiatives.

For location and hotel information for the SCRS Industry Week events (or for more information on other association activities), visit scrs.com. H&D

Executive Director’s Thoughts

SCRS is a huge resource for our association and the several area members who belong to the organization. Not only do they give valuable information and have great meetings with many takeaways, but they give our members needed support for issues affecting their shops each and every day. These meetings in April are a great way to plug into the greater industry! - Jordan Hendler

LOCAL NEWS

continued from page 18

operations for NATEF/AYES). Additionally, Parkside High School (Salisbury) instructor Joe Showacre discussed his positive experiences using I-CAR’s Professional Development Program.

Karen B. Salmon, Ph.D., interim deputy state superintendent for the office of school effectiveness, tells Hammer & Dolly that the state is dedicated to helping students achieve professional placement and success in the collision field.

“Maryland offers 15 auto body/collision repair technical programs in 13 local school systems where students earn industry-recognized certifications from NATEF/ASE and/or I-CAR,” she explains. “This past year, 458 students were enrolled in these programs. The auto body/collision repair technician program is one of four transition programs [Automotive Technician, Medium-Heavy Truck Technician and Transportation Logistics and Cargo Security] that enroll over 2,500 students annually in Maryland.”

Auto body instructors in the WMABA region who would like to learn more about WMABA’s funding and support initiatives are encouraged to contact Jordan Hendler at jordanhendler@ wmaba.com or (804) 789-9649. H&D

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ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Air-Tech Products ................................32 Alexandria Toyota ................................45 AP Media ............................................32

Audi Group ..........................................41

Axalta Coating Systems ......................OBC

BMW Group ........................................24-25 BMW of Fairfax....................................3

CAPA ..................................................20

Chesapeake Automotive Equipment ..46 Empire Auto Parts................................46 Ford Group ..........................................17 GM Parts Group ..................................21 Honda Group ......................................33 Hyundai Group ....................................11

Koons Ford ..........................................34 Malloy Hyundai ....................................19

Mazda Group ......................................31

Mid-Atlantic Paint & Supply ................27 MINI Group ..........................................9

Mitsubishi Group..................................39 Mopar Group ........................................34 Nissan Group ......................................7

Nucar ..................................................8

O’Donnell Honda ................................44

Packer Norris Parts ............................IBC Polyvance ............................................4

Porsche Group ....................................28

PPG ....................................................IFC Safety Regulations ..............................44 Subaru Group ......................................16 Toyota Group ......................................23 USI of North America ..........................26 VW Group............................................43 Wheel Collision Center ........................45

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