New England Automotive Report October 2025

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October 2025 • Volume 23, No. 10

DEPARTMENTS

CONTENTS

COVER STORY

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

6 | Breaking Free from the Referral Program Stockholm Syndrome

by Matthew Ciaschini

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE 8 | “JUST DESSERTS”

by Evangelos “Lucky” Papageorg

LOCAL NEWS

14 | AASP/MA General Meeting October 15

26 | 2025 AASP/MA Golf Outing Highlights

Photos by Douglas Begin and Alana Quartuccio

LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

18 | Jack Lamborghini: Retired from Shop Life, but Still Fighting for Labor Rate Reimbursement Reform

by Chasidy Rae Sisk

ALSO THIS ISSUE 7 | AASP/MA MEMBER APPLICATION 21 | AASP/MA VENDOR AFFINITY PROGRAM SPONSORS

36 | Labor Rate Board Was Step One — Now Lawmakers Must Protect Safe Repairs

by Sean Preston, Managing Attorney, Coverall Law

New England Automotive Report

October 2025 5

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Breaking Free from the DRP Stockholm Syndrome MATTHEW CIASCHINI

Ever catch yourself defending an insurance company that’s paying you peanuts? It’s almost like a weird case of Stockholm syndrome! You know, that condition where hostages grow fond of their captors. In our case, some auto body shops have grown bizarrely attached to the very insurers who hold their profits hostage.

Funny, I guess, but also a little scary, right?

Insurance Program Deals: The Gilded Cage Programs can feel like a cushy arrangement at first. You get a steady flow of referrals; the parking lot stays full. It’s like a gilded cage of repair: comfortable but still a cage. Insurers use that comfort to control the rules. They set the “prevailing” labor rate (which hasn’t prevailed anywhere except in their own surveys). Here in Massachusetts, many shops have been stuck at around $45 per hour labor rate with no meaningful raise in 35 years. Meanwhile, everything else (cost of living, tools, tech training, even the price of eggs for your breakfast sandwich) has shot up. The result? An industry with the lowest labor rate in the nation, and it shows.

Massachusetts lost over 100 body shops between 2018 and 2020, casualties of this unsustainable model, and the trend continues.

Yet, some program shops will say, “It’s fine, we’ve adjusted. We make it work.” That’s the Stockholm talking. They’ve been in the program so long, they rationalize the abuse: slashed rates, dictates on repair methods, delays in approvals. They might even snap at anyone who criticizes the insurer, just like a hostage yelling at the SWAT team trying to help. It would be funny if it weren’t so tragic for our profession’s well-being.

Loving the Ones Who Hurt Us (Just a Little Too Much) Let’s set the scene: A big insurer waves a program contract at a shop. “Join our network, we’ll send you work,” they promise. The shop eagerly signs on. Fast forward a year, and the shop is working twice as hard for half the pay but still saying, “Thank you sir, may I have another?” Snark aside, it’s a classic case of our industry’s own Stockholm syndrome. Shops start feeling grateful to the insurer?!?

The insurer, the very entity that keeps labor rates artificially low and dictates how repairs should be done. They defend the insurer’s bad habits: “Well, at least we’re getting volume,” or “It could be worse; they did send us all these total losses we have to fix, otherwise we lose money letting them sit here for nothing...” Talk about bonding with your captor!

For anyone unfamiliar, Stockholm syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where captives develop positive feelings toward their captors. In other words, hostages start sympathizing with (or even loving) the people tying them up. Sound uncomfortably familiar when you think of certain insurer program relationships? Shops on some insurance programs act like they’re stuck in a hostage situation, but instead of plotting an escape, they’re hanging up the captor’s picture in the break room – or better yet, on the wall outside their shop – while singing their praises.

When Insurers Play Hardball (And We Play Along) Consider the latest slap in the face: State Farm, one of the biggest players, maybe the biggest in the nation, has reportedly cut labor rates in various markets recently. Yes, while inflation makes every other cost go up, State Farm decided body labor should go down. (Maybe they think our technicians discovered a way to eat and pay rent on 2019 wages?) A recent industry poll found that slightly more than half of responding shops said State Farm lowered

continued on pg. 10

STAFF

AASP/MA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PUBLISHER

President Matthew Ciaschini

Thomas Greco | thomas@grecopublishing.com

Vice President Douglas Begin

VICE PRESIDENT/SALES DIRECTOR

AASP/MA STATEWIDE DIRECTORS

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Legislative Director At-Large Brian Bernard

Alicia Figurelli | alicia@grecopublishing.com

Alana Quartuccio | alana@grecopublishing.com

OFFICE MANAGER

Donna Greco | donna@grecopublishing.com

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Joe Greco | joe@grecopublishing.com

SENIOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Chasidy Rae Sisk | chasidy@grecopublishing.com

PUBLISHED BY: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 244 Chestnut Street, Suite 202, Nutley, NJ 07110 Corporate: (973) 667-6922 / FAX: (973) 235-1963 www.grecopublishing.com

AASP/MA DIRECTORS

Treasurer Dana Snowdale

Collision Director At-Large Dan Wenzel

Secretary Don Dowling

Immediate Past President Kevin Gallerani

ZONE 1 Jimmy Kelsey Mike Penacho Brian Stone

ZONE 2 Nick Franchi Brenda Lacaire Tom Lucas

ZONE 3 Gary Cloutier Andrew Potter McColl Rhodes

ZONE 4 J.R. Force Rick Starbard Jeff White

Affiliate Director C.J. Ellis Russ Oagles John Studer

Affiliate Directors Steve Proia

Affiliate Directors Mike Nawrocki Rich Tanchyk Scott Thompson

Affiliate Directors Dean Luther Jayce Mitchell Gregg Tanguay Cameron Todd Scott Varney

@grecopublishing

AASP/MA ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE New England Automotive Report is published monthly by TGP, Inc., 244 Chestnut Street, Suite 202 Nutley, NJ 07110. Distributed free to qualified recipients; $48 to all others. Additional copies of New England Automotive Report are available at $5 per copy. Reproduction of any portions of this publication is specifically prohibited without written permission of the publisher. The opinions and ideas appearing in this magazine are not necessarily representations of TGP Inc. or of AASP/MA. Copyright © 2025 by Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. Images courtesy of www.istockphoto.com

6 October 2025

AASP/MA Executive Director Evangelos “Lucky” Papageorg

New England Automotive Report

AASP/MA Administrative Assistant Alana Quartuccio

P. O. Box 850210 Braintree, MA 02185 617-574-0741

Membership Application 2025-2026

AASP-MA P.O. BOX 850210 Braintree, MA 02185 Phone: 617-574-0741 Email: admin@aaspma.org

Please complete this form and return to our office via mail or email with your dues payment. Thank You! BUSINESS INFORMATION Massachusetts Shop Registration # __________________

Total number of Staff (Techs, office, Mgrs)________

Company’s Official Name: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Physical Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Mailing Address (If Different): ________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone Number: (______)-________-___________ Fax: (______)-________-___________ DUES STRUCTURE. Collision Shop Annual Dues: $650 / 12 Months* PRIMARY BUSINESS CONTACT SCAN TO JOIN!

Name: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

As a member in good standing, your shop WILL BE listed on our website. Click here � if you do not want your shop listed on our website map for potential customers to find you. If you have any questions about this benefit, call (617) 574-0741, ext. 1.

Yes � Please send me information regarding the following MONEY SAVING BENEFITS: � Healthcare plan � Dental, Vision plan � PFML savings program � Credit card processing � Grant writing/training � Google presence optimization � All benefits PLEASE ENCLOSE PAYMENT WITH YOUR MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Check# : _______________ (IF collision shop please note your RS# on the memo line of the check) CC #: ______________________________________________________________________

OR

EXP: ________/___________ CID: _________________

Billing Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name On Card: _____________________________________________ Signature: ____________________________________________________ Check here � to opt out of auto renewal using this credit card information for future renewal Note: A 4 percent convenience fee will be charged for membership renewal via credit card transaction

I hereby make this application for membership with the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of MA (AASP/MA) for membership dues 2025-2026 as provided for in this contract. *Membership Dues are for a twelve-month period commencing on your anniversary month of membership.

REV 12/24

REFERRED BY _________________________ COMPANY_______________________________ New England Automotive Report

October 2025 7

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

“JUST DESSERTS” EVANGELOS “LUCKY” PAPAGEORG

Although, when pronounced, it sounds like you’re in for something sweet and satisfying, “just desserts” is more often used to describe something much less pleasant – something earned, for better or worse. The phrase comes from Old English, meaning “what one deserves.” In many ways, that perfectly sums up the state of the collision repair industry today – especially when viewed through a negative lens. Too often, hardworking professionals and the vehicle owners they serve are not getting what they deserve.

There’s also a mindset many people swear by: that if you think positively, good things will come your way. And while it’s true that a positive attitude can help in any situation, there are limits. No amount of optimism can completely overcome a broken system. In collision repair, no technician or shop owner can “think their way” past the constraints of insurance dictates, suppressed labor rates or the moral tug-of-war between doing what’s right and doing what’s covered.

We all know the system is flawed and heavily tilted in favor of the insurance industry. But that doesn’t mean a savvy and professional collision repair shop owner can’t do the right thing for the vehicle owner – and, in the process, help both parties receive their rightful “just desserts.”

Collision repair, at its core, is a noble trade. It’s about restoring safety, function and aesthetics after what is often a traumatic event for the vehicle owner. It demands technical expertise, craftsmanship and an uncompromising attention to detail. But increasingly, it also demands a willingness to fight – against policies, procedures and pressures that prioritize profits over people. It has become a race to the lowest bottom line for insurers, with maximum profit as the finish line.

The biggest elephant in the repair bay? Insurance companies.

While they’re often seen as the financial backbone of vehicle repair, the reality is more complicated – and often adversarial. Insurance carriers have, over the years, inserted themselves deeper into the repair process, dictating everything from which parts to use to how many hours a task should take to which shops are “approved” or are “preferred partners.”

This isn’t just micromanagement – it’s cost control at the expense of safety and quality. Most technicians and shop owners can

8 October 2025

New England Automotive Report

recite dozens of examples where insurers pushed for aftermarket or reconditioned parts instead of OEM components. One infamous example is the John Eagle case, where the failure to follow OEM repair procedures led to catastrophic consequences. Sometimes, substitutions are fine. But too often, they compromise vehicle integrity. A bumper that doesn’t crumple properly or a sensor that’s slightly misaligned can mean the difference between life and death.

Worse still, most vehicle owners don’t realize this is happening.

They trust their insurers to act in their best interest. Collision repair professionals often stand as the last line of defense between a compromised repair and a safe one.

Ask any shop owner, and they’ll likely bring up the issue of labor rates. Insurers frequently reimburse at rates well below what it costs to train technicians, invest in modern equipment and follow OEM repair guidelines. Unlike other skilled trades, collision repair hasn’t seen labor rates rise in proportion to the complexity of modern vehicles. Shops are essentially being asked to perform space-age repairs with Stone Age compensation. A modern car is a rolling computer – full of sensors, ADAS systems and specialized materials. Yet, the financial structure doesn’t support the training and technology needed to repair them correctly. Sadly, to survive, too many shops cut corners. Increasingly, others are walking away from insurer relationships entirely, becoming “customer-pay” shops and choosing to “balance bill” vehicle owners for the shortfall.

This is a tough and challenging road in an industry where consumers have been conditioned to believe their insurer covers everything. And if a shop sticks to OEM procedures that aren’t “approved” by the insurer? Payment becomes a battle. But with proper customer education and documentation, that battle can be lessened – or even won. There is no “easy button.” There never is when one chooses to do the right thing for the right reasons.

This is where the real conflict lies: the moral decisions repair professionals face every day. Do you follow the insurer’s directive and perform a repair you know isn’t right – or do you stand your ground and advocate for what the vehicle truly needs? Doing the right thing often comes at a cost. Shops that push back may be dropped from referral programs and contracts, lose referral volume or get tangled in prolonged supplement disputes. This is the darker side of “just desserts.” But many shop owners who’ve taken that leap will tell you: they’re happier in the long run. Those with a plan – and the discipline to stick to it – are now reaping real rewards: the positive kind of “just desserts.” They document everything. They educate vehicle owners. They explain the risks of cutting corners. And they’ve found ways to endure the financial pressure that comes with standing up for what’s right. It’s exhausting – but it’s necessary.

Those who are finding lasting success have discovered their greatest ally: the educated vehicle owner. The most important tool in the modern repair shop’s toolbox is education. When customers understand what’s at stake – when they learn that their insurer may not be recommending the safest or most complete repair – they begin asking better questions. They stop seeing shops as “the people who fix dents” and start seeing them as advocates for their safety and investment. Many shops now incorporate customer education into their intake process. They explain the difference between OEM and

continued on pg. 10

New England Automotive Report

October 2025 9

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE continued from pg. 6 rates in their area. In some regions, shops saw an overnight pay cut for the same work. For example, reports of a drop from $72 to $68 per hour in the Denver area have circulated. And if they’re not outright cutting the dollar rate, they play other games: shaving necessary labor hours, refusing to cover certain procedures or mandating cheaper and cheaper alternatives. It’s the classic insurer strategy: giveth with one hand, taketh with two.

What’s astounding is how many shops on these programs grin and bear it. Imagine any other business owner cheering for a partner who keeps squeezing their margins. It’s like a restaurant applauding a food delivery app that suddenly pays them less per order; it defies common sense. But under the program spell, some of us truly act as if the insurer can do no wrong. We’ve become conditioned to accept that “this is just how it is.” That defeatist mentality is exactly what insurers bank on.

They want us docile, dependent and a little bit in love with them (or at least afraid to leave).

Breaking the Bond: How to Cure Our Stockholm Syndrome Alright, enough is enough. It’s time for a rescue mission, and this one’s an inside job. How do we break free of our industry’s Stockholm syndrome? First, we have to admit there’s a problem. If you find yourself constantly justifying an insurer’s bad behavior or feeling dread at the thought of leaving an insurance program, take a step back. You opened your shop to be an expert repairer and a business owner, not an insurance company’s indentured servant.

Step 1: Remember Your Worth. You fix highly complex machines on wheels, returning families safely to the road. That expertise is worth a fair price. If an insurer’s program forces you to bill out major repairs at 1999 rates, that’s a huge red flag. No, you’re not being “greedy” for wanting to charge what the work is actually worth; you’re being realistic. Quality and safety have a price.

Step 2: Crunch the Numbers. Take a hard look at those jobs. Are you actually making money once you account for all the discounts, lack of total loss revenue and free add-ons insurers expect? Often, by the time you “eat” that last unapproved procedure or accept that “prevailing” rate, the job’s profit margin has vanished. Volume is only valuable if it’s profitable.

Step 3: Plan Your Exit. The relationship is like captivity, so you should start planning your escape. This doesn’t mean you drop every insurer overnight. But it does mean setting new terms. Inform your insurance partners that you simply cannot continue under the current terms. Some shops have successfully negotiated better rates when being

out of the insurance contracts that have held them down and were the primary reason for the suppressed labor rates to begin with.

Step 4: Market Your Independence. Being off a program can actually become a selling point. Let customers know you work for them, not the insurance company. Emphasize that you follow manufacturer repair procedures and won’t cut corners just because an insurer refuses to pay. There are plenty of drivers out there who care deeply that their car is fixed right, and they will seek out shops that put safety and quality first. Insurers don’t own the exclusive rights to steer customers.

Your reputation and marketing can steer plenty on your own.

Finally, Step 5: Lean on Your Allies. Organizations like AASP/ MA exist to back you up. We’re pushing for fair labor rate legislation, exposing the bad behavior of certain insurers and trying to get a fair and equitable licensing board for appraisers and consumers. There’s strength in numbers, so the more shops that break free and stand together, the harder it is for the Big Insurance captors to bully any one of us. They might control a lot of the money, but we control the wrenches, the paint guns and the know-how. Without us, they have no product to give their policyholders.

From Hostage to Hero Breaking out of this program Stockholm syndrome won’t be easy. I won’t sugarcoat it. It can feel like you’re risking a lot by saying “no more” to a powerful partner. But consider the risk of not doing it: another decade of stagnant rates, techs leaving the trade because they can make more elsewhere and shops closing doors because they can’t pay the bills.

At some point, the fear of change has to give way to the fear of wasting your potential and passion in a lopsided relationship.

It’s time to cut those one-sided emotional ties. No more loving the captor. Let’s remember that we hold the keys. Whether it’s to our shops, to our standards, to our futures or truly all three. Insurers will respect us when we finally show a little self-respect and we all do the right thing by the consumer. So go ahead, break the syndrome and step off that insurance program hamster wheel, charge what you’re worth, and deliver the kind of quality that demands a fair price. In this story, we don’t have to remain the hostages. We can be the heroes who rescued an industry’s self-esteem and profitability. And trust me, freedom and a proper labor rate never felt so good.

PROTECTING CONSUMERS AND THE COLLISION INDUSTRY

MASSACHUSETTS

AASP/MA PRESIDENT MATTHEW CIASCHINI can be reached at (413) 527-6900 or fulltiltmatthew@gmail.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE continued from pg. 8 aftermarket parts, walk customers through the estimate and clarify what is – and isn’t – covered by insurance. They equip customers to make informed decisions. This isn’t just good business – it’s essential. Because the only way to shift the power dynamic in this industry is through informed consumers who demand better. That’s the road to positive “just desserts.”

The collision repair industry is at a critical crossroads. Vehicle technology is advancing rapidly. Insurer expectations are tightening.

And yet, the moral imperative remains the same: to return a vehicle to its pre-loss condition – not just in appearance but also in safety and performance.

What was once a faint glimmer of hope is now a growing light at the end of the tunnel. Legal challenges to insurer overreach are gaining ground. Industry associations are speaking out louder than ever.

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New England Automotive Report

Legislators and regulators are listening – finally responding to issues raised by consumers and shop owners alike. A new generation of shop owners is stepping forward – less willing to play by the old rules and more committed to transparency, integrity and proper repairs. The path forward won’t be easy. It requires resilience. It requires solidarity. And it requires a deep commitment to doing what’s right, even when that path is longer, harder and less profitable – at first. Because in the end, the collision repair industry should – and will – get its “just desserts.”

Not the bitterness of systemic injustice, but the sweet reward of honest, skilled work that keeps people safe.

And that’s a dessert worth fighting for.

PROTECTING CONSUMERS AND THE COLLISION INDUSTRY

MASSACHUSETTS

AASP/MA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EVANGELOS “LUCKY” PAPAGEORG can be reached at (617) 574-0741 or lucky@aaspma.org.

Special Advertising Section

PRESENTS

Join Reliable Automotive Equipment’s Dave Gruskos for conversations with industry leaders sharing their insights and the latest from the world of certified collision repair. This month, Dave talks with Vartan H. Jerian, Jr., CEO and co-founder of Vive Collision.

Certified Collision Repair Q&A With:

VARTAN JERIAN CEO, VIVE COLLISION Dave Gruskos: VIVE Collision locations are known for operating with advanced technology and a strong commitment to safe repairs. Why is this philosophy so important to the way your locations do business?

Vartan Jerian: When you leave your vehicle with us, you’re trusting us with something that carries your family every single day. That’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly. By combining advanced technology with the skill of our technicians, we make sure your car is repaired to the best of human ability. A big part of this comes from our Ambassador Program, which is designed to grow our technicians, build apprenticeships, and strengthen our culture from the shop floor up. It’s how we make sure quality repairs are not only consistent but part of our DNA and our values of People, Process and Passion for the collision industry.

D.G.: How does VIVE define “quality” in terms of collision repair, and what steps do you take across all locations to consistently deliver on those standards?

V.J.: For us, quality means doing it right the first time and giving you complete confidence in your vehicle when you leave our shop. We achieve that by investing in technician training, apprenticeships, and programs like our Ambassador Program that help teammates take ownership of both the repair and the culture in the shop. Quality is more than the end result — it’s the process, the teamwork, and the pride our technicians put into every repair.

D.G.: The investment in tools, equipment, and technology is significant. How much weight do you place on the importance of a good vendor relationship in comparison to price or capabilities?

V.J.: Price matters, but trust matters more. That’s why we partner with companies like Reliable Auto Equipment, who not only provide the right tools but also support us in technician training and development. These vendor relationships ensure

ABOUT VIVE COLLISION Current number of locations: 64 States Represented: CT, DE, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT OEMs Represented: 26 our people always have the right resources to deliver safe, consistent repairs. The cheapest option may save a dollar today, but the right partnership pays off in the long run — for our technicians and for our customers.

D.G.: How do you feel repairers can best prepare to create a shop culture where every repair is done right?

Vartan Jerian Vive Collision

V.J.: Culture comes from the ground up and the top down.

At VIVE, we invest heavily in our technicians — because they are the ones repairing vehicles and shaping the customer experience. Through our Ambassador Program, we give technicians the tools, training, and mentorship opportunities to grow their careers, while also reinforcing the pride and accountability needed for every repair. When teammates feel supported, respected, and part of a bigger mission, the culture naturally becomes one of excellence.

D.G.: What message would you share with shops about the role of training in maintaining a successful collision repair facility?

V.J.: Training is the most important investment a shop can make. Cars evolve every year, and without ongoing training, even the most skilled technician can fall behind. That’s why we’ve made training a pillar of our culture — with structured apprenticeships, advanced development programs, and the Ambassador Program helping teammates grow into leaders.

Training ensures every repair meets the highest standards, but it also strengthens careers, builds loyalty, and creates the culture that customers can feel the moment they walk in.

This Q&A was brought to you by Reliable Automotive Equipment. For over 30 years, RAE has been the premier supplier of OEM-approved collision repair solutions built for precision and performance.

To learn how we can support you in your certified collision repair journey, visit raeservice.com or call 800-328-7855.

MEMBER

12 October 2025

New England Automotive Report

New England Automotive Report

October 2025 13

SAVE THE DATE Fall General Membership Meeting Wednesday, October 15 1pm to 7pm

Double Tree by Westborough Hotel 5400 Computer Drive, Westborough, MA Featured presenters to include:

Erica Eversman (Chief Counsel Sean Preston at Vehicle (Coverall Law) Information Services)

Watch your inbox for registration information!

14 October 2025

New England Automotive Report

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New England Automotive Report

Co-celebrating decades of creating chemistry between two industry leaders

Here’s to 241 years of combined service excellence This year, as Albert Kemperle Inc. celebrates its 83rd anniversary, BASF also celebrates its 158th anniversary. We are proud of our decades of partnership with BASF and years of serving the auto paint and body industry together. Kemperle’s founders would be proud of this relationship and the growth their company has experienced because of it.

Today, as we look forward to many more decades of service to our customers, we find ourselves filled with gratitude. The creativity, hard work, and sense of responsibility of the people working for our two companies have made us what we are today.

Thank you for your many years of loyalty.

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Fax: (908) 925-4344 Fax: (973) 279-9030 Fax: (732) 797-0774 Fax: (609) 860-2801 Fax: (862) 244-4822 New England Automotive Report October 2025 17 www.kemperle.com

[WHERE ARE THEY] NOW?

Jack Lamborghini: Retired from Shop Life, but Still Fighting for Labor Rate Reimbursement Reform As New England Automotive Report catches up with retired body shop owners who’ve made their mark on the Commonwealth collision repair industry, most have reported their relief to relinquish the battle with insurers over adequate compensation…but that’s not the case with Jack Lamborghini, former owner of Total Care Accident Repair in Raynham, who may have turned over his keys to his partner but has yet to lay down his sword to fight on behalf of those still contending with the unjust labor rate reimbursements issued by insurance carriers.

remained involved even after my retirement.

NEAR: When did you decide to retire, and why?

New England Automotive Report: When and how did you first get involved in the collision repair industry?

Jack Lamborghini: I always knew I wanted to be in business for myself, so when I was 22 years old, I bought a Maaco franchise and became the youngest Maaco operator in the country, although I had no prior industry knowledge.

In fact, at that point, my entire aptitude with automobiles was turning a key in the ignition to start it and possibly changing a tire, but after a conversation with a body shop owner who told me how much he was making fixing cars, I was intrigued…though I quickly realized that his perspective wasn’t quite congruent with reality!

After operating the Maaco shop for seven years, I sold the business to Jerry Gnazzo who owned three other locations. For the next six months, I enjoyed a very brief retirement at the age of 29 before going to work for Jerry for four years as he grew his empire to seven Maaco franchises in 1984. Around that time, an automotive consulting firm contacted me to start a division focused on collision repair, and during the nine years I worked there, I got involved with 20 groups which was one of the best things I ever did in my career because it was a great learning experience. That led to becoming a facilitator of 20 groups with the Coyote Vision Group which provided me with a lot of perspective and insight into what others throughout the country were doing in the industry.

I returned to shop life with Woburn Auto Body for 14 years, but the long commute and constant negotiations with insurers wore me out, so I left the industry altogether from 2002 until 2006 when Bruce King recruited me as the general manager for King Collision’s two facilities. That’s where I met Brian Bernard, my future business partner. When Bruce expanded to a third location in 2009, Brian and I were given equity positions in the third store, and a year later, we bought out Bruce’s share and rebranded that shop as Total Care Accident Repair.

NEAR: How long did you own your shop?

18 October 2025

JL: Brian and I christened the shop as Total Care Accident Repair in 2010, and I retired in 2023; however, I’m still doing some minor consulting work to keep my hand in the game a little bit because I have a tremendous appreciation and love for the industry.

During our time at King Collision, Brian and I worked together closely, implementing lean processes and becoming good friends, which led to our conversation about forming a partnership.

We were very aligned with how we wanted to run the business, and he is an extraordinary guy to work with; I was fortunate to have the best business partner anyone could ask for. Although our shop was initially on multiple referral lists, we soon realized how restrictive those contracts were and decided to separate ourselves from those ‘partnerships’ in 2018. That went hand-in-hand with AASP/MA’s aggressive pursuit to correct the labor reimbursement rate in Massachusetts.

NEAR: How did you get involved with the association (MABA at the time)?

JL: I started attending MABA meetings when Jerry Gnazzo became the association president in 1983, and I maintained my involvement from that point forward because I recognized the value of belonging to an association, while understanding that you get what you put into it. Still, even shops that don’t actively participate should realize how critically important it is to support the association because that’s the organization looking out for our best interests and advocating on our behalf. My involvement with the association was reinvigorated when Lucky Papageorg became executive director because I’ve always admired Lucky and his willingness to aggressively pursue important matters. I’m really passionate about the whole labor rate issue which is the main reason I’ve

New England Automotive Report

JL: I retired in January 2023 because it was time.

I had turned 70 the previous September and just felt it was time to step back; however, in many ways, I wish I was younger so I could stay on and see us through the fight for fair compensation.

But at 70 years old, I just didn’t have the same capacity that a younger man might have, so it became clear to me that it was time to turn the reins over to Brian.

I’m a big sports fan, and one of the hardest things that professional athletes have to deal with is coming to grips with the fact that it’s time to retire. We’ve all watched with sadness as some of the best athletes tried to play beyond the time that their skills were viable, and it was painful to watch. With that image in my head, I decided to retire and spend more time with my family and a lot of time playing golf.

NEAR: While you’re no longer working in the shop, you still haven’t stepped away from the collision game fully. You continue to advocate for fair labor rate reimbursement. In fact, you stepped away from the golf course to provide testimony at the Auto Body Labor Rate Advisory Board (ABLRAB) public hearing in June. What do you think will come of these efforts?

JL: I guess we’ll see. They set up a labor rate commission in 2008 and again in 2022, and nothing came of either of them. The bill that established the ABLRAB isn’t exactly what we originally proposed, and I worry that whatever number they come up with won’t be what the labor rate actually should be, but if we can move the needle forward, it’ll be a step in the right direction as we continue this fight.

The industry changed a great deal in the last five or six years before I retired, and I’m really proud that I was an integral part of raising a ruckus about the labor rate issue. I’m also very encouraged by Sean Preston’s (Coverall Law) efforts to represent us. He is building his entire practice around the collision repair industry, and it’s amazing to see someone with so much passion for helping shops. More shops need to be aware of what he’s doing and take advantage of everything he has to offer.

NEAR: Obviously, labor rate reimbursement has been an issue for a long time. How did you handle it at Total Care?

continued on pg. 24

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[WHERE ARE THEY] NOW? continued from pg. 18 JL: At Total Care, we were at the forefront of pushing the envelope with insurers and insisting on collecting what we needed to properly repair our customers’ vehicles. That often meant being willing to balance-bill customers when an insurer refused to pay for necessary repairs. A lot of repairers don’t have the confidence to explain, ‘This is what I need to charge; I’m going to repair your car the right way to ensure it’s safe to drive, and this is what I need to be compensated to do that.’ When the insurer is unwilling to pay, do you tuck your tail between your legs and accept it? Or do you refuse to accept it and balance-bill the customer?

Many shops are reluctant to charge customers because they fear the customers’ reaction, and I understand – I have great empathy for customers

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and fully respect that they’re in a difficult situation, but you’d be surprised by how many customers understand our plight if we educate them. At Total Care, we’ve always taken excellent care of our customers and explained what we needed to do and why. And since we started balance-billing for insurer shortages, guess how many complaints we’ve received? Zero! Not a single customer complained about paying above and beyond what their carrier compensated because we took the time to educate them, so they understood in advance that they would have an out-of-pocket cost before agreeing to have us repair their car. That’s a credit to how well the team educated the customer and the high quality of the finished repair.

NEAR: What advice would you offer shops still contending with inadequate labor rate reimbursement?

JL: Collision repair shops need to focus on doing things correctly, keeping integrity, safety and customer care at the top of the list…and you simply cannot do that for $43 an hour. That often means balance-billing the customer, and there’s no need to be afraid of that. Customers will pay for value if they are educated, and they can seek reimbursement from their carriers; shops can help them by providing documentation and support when vehicle owners seek that reimbursement.

NEAR: What do you miss the most?

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JL: I miss the comradery of working in a team environment on a daily basis. As a sports fan, building a team was one of the most appealing things about owning a business. Over the years, I helped build a lot of great teams.

Of course, there are always ups and downs; sometimes, you have a 20-year dynasty, while other times, you flounder and have to rebuild. But overall, we did extremely well because we had a group of people who were dedicated to repairing cars correctly and providing the best possible customer care.

I also miss interacting with customers and the sense of pride I felt when truly helping somebody. As an industry, the work we do is really important, and we need to remind ourselves – and our teams – of that every day.

NEAR: What do you miss the least?

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New England Automotive Report

JL: I certainly don’t miss trying to negotiate claims with people who have no clue what they’re doing! I don’t miss trying to explain why a repair is necessary and the shop needs to get paid to some kid who was a clerk at Best Buy six months ago and now works as an insurance ‘appraiser.’ And although I’ve always loved talking to shops to explain why they should join AASP/MA and why it’s in their best interests to charge a fair labor rate, I don’t miss trying to evoke change and evolution from people who are completely close-minded to the possibilities.

NEAR: What is the one thing you think you got out of this industry that you would not have gotten if you didn’t pick this career?

JL: I would not have had the same sense of accomplishment that I’ve gotten out of being able to build teams and help people. When I step back and take a look at everything I did over the course of my career, I feel pretty good about everything I was able to do and all the people I helped.

NEAR: Anything you want to say to your old body shop colleagues?

JL: Continue to operate with integrity on every level that you can – with your customers, team members and insurers – and never waver from that.

Don’t be afraid to make the hard decisions. As a shop owner, this is your business, and you need to act in the best interests of your organization, your customer and yourself.

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Contact these Nissan dealers for all your parts needs: Mastria Nissan 1305 New State Highway Raynham, MA 02767 Direct: 508-526-9173 Direct Fax: 508-802-6118 E-mail: parts@mastrianissan.com Web: www.mastria.com

Kelly Nissan of Lynnfield 275 Broadway Lynnfield, MA 01940 Toll Free: 800-698-9280 Fax: 781-598-8026 E-mail: dlacoste@kellyauto.com

Kelly Nissan of Woburn 95 Cedar Street Woburn, MA 01801 Phone: 781-835-3510 Fax: 781-835-3580 E-mail: mbosma@kellyauto.com www.kellyauto.com

Balise Nissan of Warwick 1350 Post Rd. Warwick, RI 02888 TOLL FREE: 800-992-6220 FAX: 800-254-3544 wparts@baliseauto.com www.BaliseWholesaleParts.com One Call, One Truck for 14 Brands!

Quirk Auto Dealers 115 E. Howard St. Quincy, MA 02169 Toll Free: 877-707-8475

New England Automotive Report

October 2025 25

2025 AASP/MA

GOLF OUTING

HIGHLIGHTS SEPTEMBER 10, 2025 HERITAGE COUNTRY CLUB, CHARLTON, MA

PHOTOS BY DOUGLAS BEGIN & ALANA QUARTUCCIO

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1. Matthew Quinlan, Charlie Pratt, Steven Walsh, Peter “Skam” Skamyrcz 2. Jay Delorge, Brent Dabrosca, Seth Meurer, Matt Effandt 3. Jason Hope, Erik Stappans, Eric Olhava, Brad Teal 4. Josh Rodrigues, Dayshawn Long, Sean Monaghan, Dave Lindsay 5. Mark Gera, Scott Varney, Dean Luther, Steve Varney 6. Daniel Clark, Peter Levchyk, Alex Levchyk, Lukas Stanton 7. Glen Murphy, Don Salvatore, Matt Munsell, Scott MacDonald 8. Ryan Steele, Bino Don Santos, Chris Sachs, Kevin Rohan 9. John Studer, Nathan Beath, Mary Beath (not pictured) 10. Mike Levy, Tim Hamilton, Tom Ricci, Kevin McNally 11. Mike Ambrosino, Willie Camacho, Nino Trembly, Scott Meisenheimer 26 October 2025

New England Automotive Report

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12. Mark Davis, Joe Boissonneault, Juan Cordova, Mark Cefalo 13. Steve Brunelle, Josh Fuller, Jacob Roy 14. Chris Michalowski, Dennis Seaver, Brian Chechile, Tom Carrigan 15. Todd Defilio, Jeremy Curboy, Kent Boucher, Justin Lamoureux 16. Lucky Papageorg, Matthew Ciaschini, Gary Cloutier, Ed Rachwal 17. Jerry Turner, Jim Houle, Joseph Robertson, Bridgette Robertson 18. Jimmy Kelsey, Griffin Beaudoin, Dan Guariglio, Sam Windle 19. Jarred Keohane, Don Dowling, John Sforza, Aaron Rock 20. Rick Foy, Mike Johnson, Tom Johnson, Dennis Cutting 21. Sean Preston, Mike Whitaker, Rose Cawley, Bobby Shaw Coverage continues on pg. 30

New England Automotive Report

October 2025 27

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New England Automotive Report

Patrick Subaru 247 Boston Turnpike Shrewsbury, MA 01545 508-756-8364 Fax: 508-752-3691 www.patricksubaru.com bsuffoletto@patrickmotors.com

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Mattie Audi 80 William S. Canning Blvd.

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Hoffman Audi 700 Connecticut Blvd East Hartford, CT 06108 860.282.0191 Fax: 860.290.6355 www.hoffmanauto.com

New England Automotive Report

October 2025 29

continued from pg. 27

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22. Tom Lewis, Jameson Bowery, Rob Dill, Matt Baril 23. Kevin Gallerani, Ronnie Lanoue, David Gallerani, Stephen Nigro 24. Steve Vanderbeek, Josh Medina, Justin Kett, Max Collins 25. Alan Dunn, Jay Ward, Rob Haskin, Don Peloquin 26. Chris Morin, John Guerin, Eric Lindlau, Jared Lines (team not pictured) 27. Tim LeBrun, Todd Castellucci, Jason Moiles, Ted Patenaude (team not pictured)

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS! FIRST PLACE TEAM:* Daniel Clark, Alex Levchyk, Peter Levchyk, Lukas Stanton *Special thanks to the Sherwin-Williams golfers, who donated their 1st Place prize back to AASP/MA! SECOND PLACE TEAM: Mike Ambrosino, Willie Camacho, Scott Meisenheimer, Nino Trembly THIRD PLACE TEAM: Brian Chechile, Tom Carrigan, Chris Michalowski, Dennis Seaver 30 October 2025

New England Automotive Report

BALL DROP WINNER: Ed Rachwal LONGEST DRIVE WINNERS: Alex Levchyk & Bridgette Robertson CLOSEST TO THE PIN WINNERS: Kent Boucher, Rose Cawley, Jarred Keohane, Chris Michalowski, Stephen Nigro, Jacob Roy PUTTING CONTEST WINNER: Josh Medina

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First place team winners: Peter Levchyk and Alex Levchyk with Lucky Papageorg

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Second place team winners: Mike Ambrosino and Willie Camacho with Lucky Papageorg

Third place team winners: Chris Michalowski and Brian Chechile with Lucky Papageorg

Longest Drive Winners: Alex Levchyk and Bridgette Robertson with Lucky Papageorg

Closest to the Pin WInner: Rose Cawley with Lucky Papageorg New England Automotive Report

October 2025 31

MORE HIGHLIGHTS FROM AASP/MA'S 2025 GOLF OUTING

AASP/MA THANKS ALL THE SPONSORS OF THIS YEAR’S TOURNAMENT! $10,000 Hole-in-One Sponsor: Spray Booth Services PGA 2026 Championship Hole-in-One Sponsor: ABSAP Patriots Away Game Hole-in-One Sponsor: Minuteman Collision Yeti Cooler Hole-in-One Sponsor: Prime Consulting Services Putting Contest Sponsor: Long Automotive Longest Drive Sponsor: Long Automotive Closest to the Pin Sponsor: Colours, Inc. Driving Range Sponsor: The Johnson Group Kick-Off Ball Drop Sponsor: Fuller Collision Group Breakfast Sponsors: Colad, Crown Collision Solutions, LKQ Corporation and Spray Booth Services Food-at-the-Turn Sponsors: Don Kennett, Inc., Haskins Automotive and Minuteman Collision Dinner Sponsor: Tiny & Sons Glass Co.

2025 TEE SPONSORS ABSAP Albert Kemperle All Day All Night Towing AkzoNobel

Balise Wholesale Group BASF Body and Paint Center Cape Auto Body

Enterprise Imperial Cars Long Automotive (x2) Mike’s Auto Body

Annisquam Auto Body Armor Auto Body Bald Hill

Car-Part.com Designer Office Systems

MItchell’s Auto Body Nesco Sales

Special thanks to the Heritage Country Club for donating a paid round of golf as one of the door prizes.

Special thanks to the following for donating items for this year’s raffle: McLaughlin Chevrolet SUV tent and PGA Super Store - PGA SS Players Club membership.

Special acknowledgements for our hole spotters and assistants: Diana Hopper, Valorie Hopper of Hop 2 It Personal Assistants, Brenda Lacaire of Steve’s Collision Center (Sturbridge), McColl Rhodes of Nesco Sales (Bondsville), Brian Bernard of Total Care Accident Repair (Raynham), Adriana Sviogos and Teddy Woods of Hertz, Christine Sapia of Enterprise and Doug Begin of Vendetti Motors (Franklin) for handling the putting contest and Thomas Greco Publishing for their assistance with the event.

Special thanks to TJ Biveau and the Heritage Country Club team for all their assistance in making our event a great one.

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New England Automotive Report

It Takes Genuine Honda Collision Repair Parts To Achieve a Genuine Honda Fit. Honda collision repair parts are engineered and manufactured to Honda standards.

In the collision-repair business, time is money, and you can’t waste time on parts that almost fit properly. Use Genuine Honda replacement parts. Your reputation depends on it.

For Genuine Honda parts, contact these Authorized Honda dealers.

Bernardi Honda 960 Worcester Road Natick, MA 01760 Parts Direct: 800-247-3033 FAX: 508-651-1220 www.bernardihonda.com

Honda of Enfield 20 Palomba Drive Enfield, CT 06082 Toll Free: 800-222-6632 FAX: 860-253-5419 www.liahondaofenfield.com

Schaller Honda 1 Veterans Drive New Britain, CT 06051 Toll Free: 800-382-4525 Direct: 860-826-2080 FAX: 860-826-2083 e-mail: jkiniry@schallerauto.com www.schallerauto.com

Balise Honda 400 Riverdale St. West Springfield, MA 01089 TOLL FREE: 800-992-6220 FAX: 800-254-3544 wparts@baliseauto.com www.BaliseWholesaleParts.com One Call, One Truck for 14 Brands!

Lia Honda of Northampton 293 King Street Northampton, MA 01060 Toll Free: 800-369-7889 Direct: 1-413-587-2900 FAX: 1-413-585-0502 www.liahondanorthampton.com

Honda North 382 Newbury Street Danvers, MA 01923 Toll Free: 800-882-9797 FAX: 978-774-9483 e-mail: eadams@iclautos.com www.hondanorth.com

Lundgren Honda of Auburn 525 Washington Street Auburn, MA 01501 Toll Free: 800-777-2044 FAX: 508-721-0872 e-mail:pmccarthy@lhonda.com www.lhonda.com

Balise Honda of West Warwick 509 Quaker Lane West Warwick, RI 02893 TOLL FREE: 800-992-6220 FAX: 800-254-3544 wparts@baliseauto.com www.BaliseWholesaleParts.com One Call, One Truck for 14 Brands!

continued on pg. 34 New England Automotive Report

September 2025 33

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Bald Hill KIA 1021 Bald Hill Road Warwick, RI 02886 Parts Direct: (800) 822-3015 www.baldhillkia.com

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Quirk Auto Dealers 115 E. Howard St. Quincy, MA 02169 Toll Free: (877) 707-8475

Balise KIA 603 Riverdale St. West Springfield, MA 01089 Toll Free: 800-992-6220 Fax: 800-254-3544 wparts@baliseauto.com www.BaliseWholesaleParts.com One Call, One Truck for 14 Brands!

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New England Automotive Report

Balise Mazda 733 East Columbus Avenue Springfield, MA 01105 TOLL FREE: 800-992-6220 FAX: 800-254-3544 wparts@baliseauto.com www.BaliseWholesaleParts.com One Call, One Truck for 14 Brands!

New England Automotive Report

October 2025 35

[LEGAL] PERSPECTIVE by Sean Preston, Managing Attorney, Coverall Law

Labor Rate Board Was Step One – Now Lawmakers Must Protect Safe Repairs When you pay for car insurance, you expect peace of mind.

You pay your bill every month so that if your car is in a crash, the insurance company will cover the cost to fix it. More than that, you trust the repair will be done the right way – safe, proper and enduring.

But in Massachusetts, the truth is different. Insurance companies often look for ways to spend less money, even if it means pushing for repairs that cut corners. They use gaps in our state’s rules to save themselves money, while leaving drivers with repairs that may not meet the car manufacturer’s safety standards.

Recently, lawmakers took a small step forward. At the end of 2024, Massachusetts created a new Auto Body Labor Rate Advisory Board (ABLRAB) to study and recommend fair pay for auto body work. This was a victory for repair shops that have struggled for years. But this step only fixes one piece of the puzzle. It does not stop insurers from pressuring shops to use cheaper parts or skip important repair steps.

That’s why we need the next step. Massachusetts must make sure insurers stop interfering with the work of licensed repair professionals – so drivers can be confident their cars are repaired safely.

Legislative Context – Small Steps, Big Gaps A few years ago, repair shops and consumer advocates tried to pass a new law that would set fair pay for auto body work. That effort failed in 2022, and many shops were left frustrated.

But in 2024, they won a smaller fight. Lawmakers agreed to create the ABLRAB. This Board’s job is simple: study how much auto body shops should be paid for their work and make recommendations. It was an important win after years of being ignored.

Still, the Board can only study and suggest. It cannot stop insurance companies from dictating to shops how to fix cars, what parts to use or which steps to skip. That means insurers still have the power to control repairs in ways that put drivers at risk.

The ABLRAB is a great first step, but Massachusetts drivers will need more than a study. They need laws that make sure insurance companies cannot interfere with safe repairs.

The Collision Repair Landscape in Massachusetts Every day in Massachusetts, insurance companies push repair shops to do less than what’s really needed. Shops are told not to follow all of the car maker’s repair instructions. They are told to use cheaper, imitation parts instead of genuine ones. And they are pushed to join “programs” where the shop agrees to work for lower pay if the

36 October 2025

New England Automotive Report

insurer sends them customers.

These pressures hurt everyone. Repair shops are stuck in the middle. If they follow the insurer’s orders, they may skip steps that keep a car safe. If they refuse, they risk not getting paid fairly – or losing future business from the insurer. In the end, the shop carries the blame if something goes wrong, even when it was the insurer who demanded the cheaper repair.

For drivers, the danger is hidden. A car may look fixed, but if the right parts were not used or key safety steps were skipped, the next crash could be much worse. Drivers think all repairs are done the same way –the safe way. But in reality, the quality of the repair depends on how much the insurer is willing to pay.

Consumer Deception – The Illusion of a Safe Repair Most drivers in Massachusetts believe their cars are fixed the right way after a crash. They assume there’s only one safe way to repair a car, and that every shop – and every insurer – follows it.

Sadly, that’s not true.

Under Massachusetts law, insurance companies are allowed to push for cheaper, non-original parts. 211 CMR 133.04 says appraisers must use rebuilt, aftermarket or used parts unless the car’s safety could be harmed or certain other conditions are met. This gives insurers the power to replace genuine factory parts with copies that may not fit and will not perform in the same way. When asked, almost every driver wants original parts put back on their car. But insurers rarely ask – they just write the estimate using imitation parts.

Insurers also push drivers toward certain “program shops.”

Massachusetts law does give drivers the right to choose their own repair shop. In fact, 212 CMR 2.04 makes it illegal for insurers or their appraisers to steer someone to or away from a specific shop.

But in practice, many drivers still feel pressured to use the shop the insurer recommends, thinking it will be easier. They don’t realize that these shops often agree to lower payments from insurers, which can mean cutting corners on the repair.

The truth is, insurers are making key repair decisions behind the scenes – decisions that drivers assume are being made by licensed repair professionals. That’s why so many consumers are being fooled.

The car may look fine when it leaves the shop, but hidden safety systems may not work the way the manufacturer intended.

Massachusetts Law – What Exists, What’s Missing Massachusetts does have rules that are supposed to protect drivers. For example: • 211 CMR 123.07 says insurance

companies must give drivers a disclosure form explaining their choices. It must tell them they can have their car fixed at any shop, not just a program shop. It must also explain that if they pick a shop on the insurer’s referral list, the insurer has to guarantee the quality of the repair.

• 212 CMR 2.04 makes it clear that insurers and appraisers cannot steer a driver toward or away from a particular shop.

• 211 CMR 133.04 sets standards for how parts are chosen. It says appraisers must use rebuilt, aftermarket or used parts unless safety would be harmed or no suitable parts can be found. If the parts are unfit, the insurer must pay to replace them.

On paper, these rules sound like they protect drivers. But in reality, they leave big holes. Insurers can still use the “like kind and quality” rule to force cheaper, imitation parts, even if drivers would prefer genuine factory parts. Disclosure forms are given to drivers, but many don’t fully understand what they mean – and no one explains that insurers may be refusing to pay for important manufacturer-

continued on pg. 38

THE LEADER IN QUALITY FOR 40 YEARS LEARN HOW WE’VE DONE IT

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[LEGAL] PERSPECTIVE continued from pg. 37 required safety steps.

The biggest gap of all is accountability. If a repair is done wrong and puts lives at risk, the shop is usually the one held responsible – not the insurer who dictated the repair. That means insurers get to call the shots without sharing the risk.

Massachusetts has most of the right words in its laws but lacks any real protections in practice. Drivers are left believing they are safe, when insurers are still in the repair bay making the real decisions.

The Risks – Why This Matters Now A car can look perfect after a crash repair – shiny paint, smooth panels and no dents. But what you can’t see may be the most important part. Hidden inside your car are safety systems like air bags, sensors and strong metals that protect you and your family in another crash. If these aren’t repaired the right way, lives can be put in danger.

In Texas, a tragic case showed what can happen when repairs are not done to the car maker’s instructions. A couple was trapped in their car during a fire after improper repairs, and they were badly burned. A jury awarded them $42 million. That case did not happen in Massachusetts, but it is a warning sign of what could happen here.

Here in Massachusetts, we already know the risks are real.

Shops report that insurers deny payment for safety checks that manufacturers require. Insurers also push shops to use cheaper parts, even when those parts don’t match the quality of the originals. These shortcuts may save the insurer money today, but they put drivers and passengers in danger tomorrow.

KEEP IT GENUINE INSIST ON GENUINE GM PARTS

Contact the following dealers for all your Genuine GM Parts needs: Boch Chevrolet 381 Boston Providence Hwy Route 1, The Automile Norwood, MA 02062 Parts Line: 781-762-9210 Toll Free: 800-559-9210 bchwholesale@boch.com

Balise Chevrolet Buick GMC 683 E. Columbus Ave. Springfield, MA 01105 Toll Free: 800-992-6220 Fax: 800-254-3544 wparts@baliseauto.com www.BaliseWholesaleParts.com One Call, One Truck for 14 Brands!

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The scary part is most drivers have no idea. They trust their car is safe because it looks fixed. But without stronger laws, the reality is that insurers are still cutting corners behind the scenes – and those hidden dangers could show up in the next crash.

Legislative Call to Action – “Get Insurers Out of the Repair Bay” The ABLRAB was an important first step. It showed that lawmakers in Massachusetts understand auto repair shops are being squeezed by insurers who don’t want to pay fair rates. But safe repairs are about more than money. They are about protecting lives.

Now it is time for the next step. Lawmakers must pass stronger laws that: • Stop insurer interference. Licensed repair shops should follow the car manufacturer’s instructions, not the insurer’s shortcuts.

• Make insurers share the risk. If an insurer denies a safe procedure and the repair later fails, the insurer should be held responsible – not just the shop.

• Give drivers the truth. When insurers refuse to pay for original parts or safety steps, drivers should be told directly so they can make an informed choice.

Massachusetts drivers deserve better than hidden dangers in their cars. They deserve the repairs they thought they were paying for when they bought insurance. It’s time for lawmakers to step in and get insurers out of the repair bay.

Conclusion – Protecting the Public Car insurance is supposed to give peace of mind. Drivers pay their bills and expect safe repairs when accidents happen. But in Massachusetts, insurers often put their own profits first. They push shops to cut corners, use cheap parts or skip important steps – leaving drivers at risk without even knowing it.

The ABLRAB was a good beginning, but it cannot be the end.

Lawmakers need to act now to make sure insurers stop interfering with safe repairs. Every driver in Massachusetts deserves the same promise: that when their car is fixed, it is fixed the right way.

This is not just about shops or insurers – it is about protecting families on our roads. Together, repair professionals, lawmakers and consumers can make sure safety comes first.

At Coverall Law, we are here to stand with shops and drivers for a safer Massachusetts. We help expose unfair practices and fight for safe, proper repairs. With stronger laws and a united voice, Massachusetts can keep insurers out of the repair bay and keep the Commonwealth safe.

PROTECTING CONSUMERS AND THE COLLISION INDUSTRY

MASSACHUSETTS

Coverall Law Managing Attorney Sean Preston finished in the top of his law school class at the historic Howard University School of Law in Washington, DC after serving in the United States Army. He went on to excel in business and legal strategy, serving some of the world's most recognizable brands in neighboring industries. Sean recently returned from Berlin, Germany with his family (where he served in Rolls-Royce's General Counsel function) and today resides in Wareham, MA, where he helps to oversee and meaningfully lead efforts in the region for Coverall Law. He can be reached at (508) 635-5329 or via email at spreston@coveralllaw.com.

WHY GENUINE PARTS? It’s the Right Thing to Do

You lose money when aftermarket parts don’t fit. Toyota Dealers are your best source for Genuine Toyota Parts. All it takes is one call.

For Toyota Genuine Parts please call one of these authorized local Toyota Dealers: IRA Toyota of Manchester 33 Auto Center Road Manchester, NH 03103 Toll Free: 800-828-6076 Direct: 603-657-2410 Fax: 603-657-2419 stirrell@iramotorgroup.com www.iramotorgroup.com

IRA Toyota Danvers 161 Andover Street Danvers, MA 01923 PH: 800-774-8411 ext.1 Direct: 978-739-8306 FAX: 978-739-8098

Wellesley Toyota 216 Worcester Street Wellesley, MA 02481 PH: 800-734-0006 Direct: 781-237-4042 FAX: 781-237-3481

parts@wellesleytoyota.com www.wellesleytoyota.com

Bernardi Toyota 1626 Worcester Road Framingham, MA 01702 Parts Direct: 800-247-3033 FAX: 508-879-7895 www.bernarditoyota.com

Balise Toyota 1399 Riverdale St. West Springfield, MA 01089 TOLL FREE: 800-992-6220 FAX: 800-254-3544 wparts@baliseauto.com www.BaliseWholesaleParts.com

One Call, One Truck for 14 Brands!

Balise Toyota of Warwick 1400 Post Rd. Warwick, RI 02888 TOLL FREE: 800-992-6220 FAX: 800-254-3544 wparts@baliseauto.com www.BaliseWholesaleParts.com

One Call, One Truck for 14 Brands!

www.iramotorgroup.com

Grieco Toyota 415 Taunton Ave. East Providence, RI 02914 Direct: 401-438-2206 Fax: 401-431-0673 toyotaparts@griecocars.com www.griecotoyota.com

ToyotaPartsAndService.com New England Automotive Report

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You’ve got the right tools, staff, technology and procedures to give your customers the best repair possible. The missing piece of the puzzle? Genuine Volkswagen Collision Parts. Contact an authorized dealer today and find your perfect fit.

Mattie Volkswagen 80 William S. Canning Blvd.

Fall River, MA 02771 800-678-0914 fax: 508-730-1283

Lia Volkswagen 140 Elm Street Enfield, CT 06083 860-698-6890 fax: 860-265-7840 www.liavw.com

Volkswagen of Hartford 133 Leibert Road Hartford, CT 06120 Direct Parts: 860-543-6012 fax: 860-728-4408 email: ebautista@vwofhartford.com

Mastria Volkwagen 1619 New State Highway Raynham, MA 02767 Toll Free: 888-581-1146 Direct Parts: 508-802-9955 fax: 508-802-9966 email: vwparts@mastria.com www.mastriavw.com

Balise Volkswagen 525 Quaker Ln. West Warwick, RI 02893 TOLL FREE: 800-992-6220 FAX: 800-254-3544 wparts@baliseauto.com www.BaliseWholesaleParts.com One Call, One Truck for 14 Brands!

“Volkswagen“ and the Volkswagen logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. ©2025 Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Wholesale Parts

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ADVERTISERS’ INDEX 1Source ADAS ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 12 AkzoNobel �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 4 Albert Kemperle ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17 Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists �������������������������������������������������������������� 3 Audi Group ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 29 Balise................................................................................................... 24 BASF..................................................................................................... 9 BMW Group �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 16 Boch Chevrolet (GM Parts Group) ����������������������������������������������������� 38 Colonial Auto Group ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 2 Coverall Law ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 37 Crown Collision Solutions ������������������������������������������������������������������ 24 Empire Auto Parts ������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 37 Ford Group ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 8 Honda Group ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 33 Hyundai Group ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 34 Industry Update (RAE) ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 11 Ira Subaru............................................................................................ 12 Ira Toyota of Danvers ������������������������������������������������������������������������� 13 Kelly Automotive Group ������������������������������������������������������������������IBC Kia Group........................................................................................... 34 Lombard Equipment ���������������������������������������������������������������������� OBC Long Automotive Group �������������������������������������������������������������������� 35 Mazda Group ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 34

Why Join WIN? WIN offers education, mentoring and leadership development opportunities to build critical skills for success in the collision repair market.

• Local/Regional Networking Events • Annual Education Conference • Educational Webinars

• Scholarship Program • School Outreach Program • Most Influential Women (MIW) Award

• Mentoring Opportunities womensindustrynetwork.com

Mopar Group ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 20 Nissan Group ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 25 Quirk Wholesale Parts �������������������������������������������������������������������������� 9 Reliable Automotive Equipment ���������������������������������������������������� 22-23 Subaru Group ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 28 Telwin................................................................................................. 15 Thomas Greco Publishing ������������������������������������������������������������������� 15 Toyota Group ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 39 USI North America ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 21 Volvo Group ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 42 VW Group ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 41 Wagner Motors ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 40 WIN.................................................................................................... 42

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