Southern Automotive Journal

Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

COLLISION NEWS

Supplier Spotlight

March 2009

Bill Reilly Toyota

SCRS Applauds Free OEM Information Availability National Auto Fraud and Theft Prevention System

MECHANICAL NEWS 80% of Vehicles Need Service & Parts, Reports Car Care Council Cash for Clunkers’ Program: A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing Florida’s Adopts California Vehicle Emission Standards

DEALER NEWS OEConnection and Snap-On New Business Solutions Atlanta For Annual International Auto Show Southern Automotive Journal P.O. Box 675097 Marietta, Ga 30006-0009 (770) 321-9920

Saab ‘Canopy Top’ Brings Breath Of Fresh Air To Convertible Design The Saab 9-X Air BioHybrid Convertible Concept, which made its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, is a design vision exploring what a future openair Saab could look like. It features a unique Canopy Top (patent pending) and the closecoupled proportions of a sports car, as well as seating for four.

In breaking the mold of conventional convertible design, the bodywork of the 9-X Air incorporates prominent rear pillars that curve upward to mount the flat-folding Canopy Top. They also anchor a distinctive, wraparound glasshouse, including a sepaIN-HOME: Dec. 1, 2008

rate, recessed rear screen.

Lead designer Anthony Lo and his team executed this design while still offering the four-season, four-seat practicality pioneered by Saab when it premiered its first convertible concept 25 years ago at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

Top down or up, the 9-X Air cuts a distinctive silhouette. With the canopy stowed and the rear screen up, occupants can enjoy open-top motoring free from buffeting. Top up, the 9-X Air Please Turn to Page 4

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9-X Air From Front Cover 9-X Air assumes the appearance of a true coupe, with a cohesive design that eschews the looks of a conventional, four-seat convertible.

Designed in parallel with the Saab 9-X BioHybrid concept, the 9-X Air shares its distinctive frontal styling, together with its highly efficient powertrain. The small, 1.4-liter Saab BioPower engine combines a series of steps for more responsible performance: engine rightsizing, turbocharging, the use of biofuels and hybrid technology.

Running on E85 fuel (85 percent bioethanol and 15 percent gasoline), the engine delivers a sporty 200 horsepower (147 kW), providing 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) acceleration in 8.1 seconds and projected carbon dioxide tailpipe emissions of just 107 g/km over the combined cycle. Compared to gasoline, the overall source-to-wheel environmental impact of using E85 is even more beneficial.

Progressive design The clean, sculpted body contours of the 9-X Air give fresh expression to Saab’s Scandinavian-inspired design ethos and its aircraft heritage. The purposeful stance, with minimal overhangs front and rear, is complemented by a single, wraparound window graphic, smooth uncluttered body surfaces and “ice block” lighting themes.

The exterior look is defined by the prominent C-pillars, or buttresses, that provide the rear mounting for the unique Canopy Top – a powered, flatfolding roof. This innovation in convertible design, which distinguishes between a folding roof and a complete folding soft-top or hood assembly, is subject to a Saab patent application.

The Canopy Top is fabric, rather than metal, to save weight and provide more efficient packaging. It is fully automatic in operation and folds neatly in three small sections under a rear tonneau cover in the trunk. The rear screen between the buttresses retracts automatically into the underside of the raised tonneau cover to allow stowage of the Canopy Top. The screen moves back into position to provide a complete glass surround for the cabin in open-top 4

Southern Automotive Journal

March 2009

9-X Air From Page 4 mode.

This “surround glass” feature, together with an active wind deflector on top of the windshield header rail, provides enhanced occupant comfort.

It minimizes buffeting, reduces back drafts and eliminates the need for a wind deflector net. Separating the rear screen from the folding top also enables a glass area larger than feasible with a soft top and integral screen.

In a further break with design convention, the 9-X Air dispenses with a trunk lid. Instead, a large storage compartment, big enough to accommodate two golf bags, slides out from underneath the rear light bar. To save weight, it is spring-loaded, without any power assistance, and slides effortlessly on rollers. Revealed underneath the sliding drawer is a separate compartment for stowing smaller items.

DID YOU KNOW ?

Driver focus Inside, the 9-X Air features innovative developments in its driver-focused cockpit design and the provision of seamless connectivity for personal elec-

tronic devices, both first seen in the 9-X BioHybrid.

The driver information zone encompasses the top of the door molding. It is a fresh execution of Saab’s traditional, driver-focused cockpit layout and dispenses with a central, floor-mounted console.

T h e zone is a flat, arc-shaped surface, within which a row of five display screens is embedded and illuminated in green 3-D graphics, including an “infotainment” screen and

control panel in the driver’s door.

In co-operation with Sony Ericsson, the 9-X Air and its hatchback sibling also showcase the potential for seamless, wireless connectivity (Bluetooth) with one or more multiple devices (mobile phones, PDAs, etc.). The in-car interface enables streaming of data, entertainment and satellite navigation functions, which are transferred automatically to the car while the device remains in the user’s pocket.

The smarter the device, the more functions in the car. The same unit can also be programmed to remotely lock or unlock the car, raise or lower the Canopy Top, and even remotely change in-car presets. The 9-X Air eliminates the need for a separate car key fob or remote controller.

Efficiency in design and performance The 9-X Air was created by an advanced design team at General Motors Europe, working in cooperation with the Saab Brand Center in Sweden.

“Like the 9-X BioHybrid, this car is all about efficiency in design and performance, and that includes the Canopy Top.” said Lo, Director of Advanced Design. “It offers important benefits in weight-saving and packaging, as well as giving us the freedom to take convertible design forward in a very Saab way.”n

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It’s The Greatest Little Car Museum On Earth that the microcars were a “necessity of the times” during ten years of reconstruction. What other vehicles could average 50 to 80 miles per gallon during these lean years?

When I asked Weiner about his personal favorites, he did not hesitate in showing his collection of Messerschmitt Tigers. He said that this is the only collection in the world with all of the different models produced during the 1950’s by this German line. Fully

If you think that the Smart Cars of today are really tiny, you should see them side by side with the microcars of yesteryear. These miniscule vehicles from the 1940’s through the 1960’s are not only a lot smaller than the Smart, but they also make the Mini Cooper, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and Nissan Versa all look like SUVs by comparison.

So, where can you go to see a collection of these extremely rare, limited production microcars? Believe it or not, the greatest little car museum on Earth is located only 70 miles east of Atlanta in Madison, Georgia.

Dubble Bubble executive Bruce Weiner is the founder of this microcar museum , which exhibits a collection of over 300 vehicles. Weiner started collecting in 2004 after purchasing 21 vehicles from a collector in Germany. He has since added vehicles from throughout the world, including Australia, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Great Britain, Italy, Russia, Sweden, and the United States.

Weiner said that his collection is, unquestionably, the world’s largest, with a museum in Europe being the closest competitor with 125 microcars.

Many of Weiner’s rarest vehicles were produced in Europe after World War II. The ravages of war had caused crippling shortages of food, raw materials, electricity and gasoline. Weiner said 6

Southern Automotive Journal

there throughout the globe? Weiner said that he hears from a number of collectors and enthusiasts annually through his website – www.microcarmuseum. com. Hundreds of these individuals also travel to Madison each year to view the collection.

For those who would like to see these cars in motion, the museum hosts two “Microcars in Madison” events each year that attract large crowds. Attendees at these events have the opportunity of seeing these little wonders take to the roadways like in days of yesteryear.

The Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum, Inc. will The Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum, display a selection of Inc. will display a selection of their vehicles their vehicles at the at the upcoming Atlanta Journal-Constitution upcoming Atlanta International Auto Show, March 14-22, at the Journal-Constitution International Auto Georgia World Congress Center.

Show, March 14-22, at the Georgia World Congress Center. restored Messerschmitt Tigers can sell for For more information on The over $100,000.

Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum, please One of the museum’s rarest vehicall 706-343-9937, or visit their excelcles is the 1958 Brutsch Mopetta from lent website – www.microcarmuseum.

Germany. Creator Egon Brutsch’s goal com. They are located at 2950 Eatonton was to build the “world’s smallest car.”

Road, Madison, GA 30650. The museHe also wanted to market it as a boat, um is opened on Tuesday, Wednesday despite the fact that its Fiberglas body and Thursday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., was not watertight. Needless to say, only and closed Thanksgiving week and the 14 of this one passenger, three-wheelers months of June and July. Admission is a were produced. donation to the local Humane Society.n For those looking for microcars produced in the good old USA, the museum has the King Midget 2 and the Eshelman on display.

Weiner is always on the look out for more additions to this collection. The cars continue to be found in barns and collections throughout the world, and are often need major repairs before they are museum worthy. The museum has a full time staff of specialists who repair these vehicles to original state.

So, how many microcar enthusiasts are March 2009

80% of Vehicles Need Service & Parts, Reports Car Care Council Results of vehicle check-up events at community car care events across the country in April and October 2008 revealed that 80 percent of vehicles need service or parts, the Car Care Council reported recently. The unsatisfactory condition of vehicles also reinforces the continued need for consumer education about the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair.

An analysis of vehicle inspection forms, submitted from event coordinators in several states, shows that 80 percent of the vehicles checked during National Car Care Month in April and Fall Car Care Month in October needed parts replacement, service or fluids. For example, nearly one out of every 10 vehicles had the check engine light on.

The top problem areas were motor oil, windshield wipers, air filters, belts and hoses and lights.

“Vehicle check-up events are typically the focus of community car care events sponsored by repair shops, parts stores or distributors in cooperation with local vocational schools, media, civic groups and others,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

“While these events are free to consumers and serve as community-relations builders, most aftermarket businesses who participate experience an increase in sales and customers as a result.”

When checking lubricants and fluids, the three top failure rates were: low, overfull or dirty motor oil at 32 percent; inadequate washer fluid levels at 23 percent, and low, leaky or dirty coolant at 23 percent; Transmission, brake, power steering and clutch fluids were also checked and had failure rates of 17 percent and below.

Approximately 15 percent of vehi-

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cles had front windshield wiper failures and 10 percent needed service to rear wipers.

At least one belt was reported as unsatisfactory in 18 percent of the vehicles inspected, and 7 percent required at least one new hose. New air filters were needed in 18 percent of the vehicles, while 7 percent needed new PVC filters.

The check engine light was on in 9 percent of the vehicles.

Battery cables, clamps and terminals needed maintenance in 10 percent of the vehicles inspected, while 9 percent of the batteries were not properly held down. Eleven percent had either a green, dark or clear/yellow charge indicator light.

Improperly inflated tires were found on 15 percent of the cars and 12 percent had worn tread and were in need of replacement.n

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All-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Breaks from the Herd, Offering Game-changing Design, Features, Innovations

Dodge has been building trucks since 1917. Throughout its storied history, Dodge introduced a number of innovative trucks – the original “Suburban,” aerodynamic Airflow-model trucks and the ultra-capable Power Wagon®. But it was in 1994 that Dodge introduced a revolutionary Ram in the light-duty pickup market, with its drop-fendered, “big rig” styling and iconic crosshair grille. “We put a truck on the market that tripled our market share,” said Ralph Gilles, Vice President – Jeep®/Truck Design Studio, Chrysler LLC. “Our design was polarizing – people loved it or hated it. But the people who loved it, bought it. They still do, because Dodge Ram continues to stand out from the herd of ‘me-too’ trucks.”

For the redesign of its all-new, next-generation Ram, Dodge pulled out all the stops. “Our mandate was to make a quantum leap and add even more voltage to Ram,” said Scott Kunselman, Vice President – Truck Product Team. “Our allnew 2009 Dodge Ram is a game-changer in terms of capability, convenience, craftsmanship and safety.”

In addition to the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI® which produces 390 horsepower (291 kW) and 407 lb.-ft. (548 N•m) of torque, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers a 4.7-liter V-8 providing 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 N•m) of torque, and a 3.7-liter V-6 generating 215 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque; four- and five-speed automatic transmissions; part-time and on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer cases; and 3.21, 3.55, 3.92 and 4.10 axle ratios.

Equipped with the new HEMI, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram R/T regular-cab 4x2 model with a short bed and 4:10 gears blasts from 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is offered

in regular cab, Quad Cab® and crew-size cab, with three box lengths: 8-foot (regular cab), 6-foot 4-inches (regular cab and Quad Cab), and a new-for-2009 box length of 5-foot 7-inches (crew cab).

A n

lockable, illuminated and drainable storage compartments integrated into both cargo-box sides for effortless access and convenience. Each RamBox bin holds up to five cases (120 cans) of 12-ounce beverages. Total capacity for both bins is 7.4 cubic feet. The RamBox system includes a bed divider/2-foot bed extender for oversize loads and a rail system with sliding, adjustable cleats for infinitely adjustable tiedown capability.

The 2009 Dodge Ram’s tailgate features a standard assist feature that reduces the effort needed to raise and close the tailgate.

improved frame design incorporating high-strength steel supports an all-new, first-insegment, multi-link coil spring rear suspension that improves ride and handling characteristics without sacrificing payload (up to an estimated 1,850 lbs.) and towing capability (up to an estimated 9,100 lbs.).

The all-new 2009 Dodge

Ram Crew 1500 features an available first-in-segment RamBox cargo management system that provides weatherproof, March 2009

Another new segment-first innovation for the 2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 is a pair of “store in the floor” bins with removable liners that offer even more versatile storage – large enough for ten 12-ounce beverages and ice.

There are many other convenient storage locations throughout the allnew 2009 Dodge Ram including a large upper glove box, map pockets in door panels and a configurable center console. All in all, there are nearly twice as many storage locations (42) in the allnew 2009 Dodge Ram than were in the previous model.

Technically sophisticated, yet simRam Please Turn to Page 13 Southern Automotive Journal

Ford’s Warranty Repair Costs Decline Further in 2008 as Quality Continues to Improve Ford Motor Company’s steady Toyota-Lexus-Scion for the 2008 model Quality. vehicle quality improvement in recent year, according to the latest U.S. Global The drive to improve quality is years is beginning most evident to translate into sigduring a nificant savings for new-model • The warranty repair rate for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles in the the company and far launch. Since United States is now almost 50 percent lower than it was in 2004. fewer trips by cus2005, each tomers to the repair new model shop. from Ford has • Ford F-Series Super Duty and Lincoln Mark LT rank atop their respective In the past two consistently segments with fewest “things gone wrong” (TGW) and in customer satisyears alone, Ford has delivered betfaction. reduced its warranty ter quality - as repairs costs by $1.2 measured by • Ford Mustang GT500 had the least number of TGWs among sports cars. billion, according to warranty rates the latest company and thingsfigures. These savings gone-wrong • Overall, 18 of 24 Ford domestic brand vehicles posted TGW improvecan be attributed to metrics - than ments. four straight years the models of quality improvethey replaced. ments on Ford, Lincoln and Mercury Quality Research System (GQRS) study.

“The last 24 months have revealed vehicles. Ford’s initial quality is now Ford strives to be best in class in some of our best quality results,” said in a virtual tie with Honda-Acura and every phase of vehicle development Curt Yun, director, Global Warranty. from design “Our new models have been achievto pre-deliving continuously declining warranty ery - internal repair rates and lower warranty costs, measures as a direct result of our overall quality continue to improvements.” show the In the U.S., for example, owners company of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles is making have reported fewer concerns at three si gni f i c ant years in service for each of the past five q u a l i t y years, according to the Global Quality strides.

Research System (GQRS) survey, com“Ford piled for Ford by the research firm RDA is following Group. a set of stan“We’ve reached the point where dardized our initial quality is second to none processes among the full-line manufacturers,” a r o u n d said Fowler. “We expect that high qualthe world ity to be reflected in future high-milein product age surveys as our new models age.” developFord’s Global Product ment, manDevelopment System ensures quality is ufacturing built-in early in the process. It starts with and purthe company’s commitment to develop chasing with and implement consistent standardized a discipline engineering processes. By fully utilizthis coming Computer Assisted Design toolsets, pany has Ford is signing off on all aspects of its never seen,” designs even before the first prototype said Bennie is built.

Fowler, Ford’s design and engineering Ford group analysis processes make it possible vice presifor problems that previously might dent, Global Repair Costs Please Turn to Page 22

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March 2009

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Hundreds Of Spectacular Vehicles Come To Atlanta For Annual International Auto Show!

The 27th Annual The auto show will Atlanta Journal-Constitution also celebrate the 100th International Auto Show will anniversary of the first auto return to the Georgia World show in Atlanta and the Congress Center on March 14Southeastern U.S. This 1909 22, showcasing over 600 new show was spearheaded by cars, trucks and SUVs on disCoca-Cola founder Asa G. play from 35 different manCandler and featured 67 ufacturers in a display area different motor car makcovering over 500,000 square ers, including Cadillac, feet.

Oldsmobile, Packard, Pierce "The show will once A-Arrow and Hudson. again be exhibited exclu The Auto sively in Building B of the Show's annual preview Congress Center," said Shayne party, “A NIGHT OF CARS Wilson, President of the Metro & STARS,” is a fund raiser Atlanta Automobile Dealers for Children’s Healthcare of The Lincoln C silhouette is immediately distinguished by a Association (MAADA). "All Atlanta, and will take place bold front profile, low shoulder, high beltline, wide C-pillar and on Friday, March 13, 2008 reconstruction has been comcompact bustle back. pleted and there is no eviat 7:30 P.M. at the Georgia dence of the tornado damage World Congress Center. This from March of last year.

Show Hours: event will give attendees the “Visitors to the show will first opportunity to see hunalso see a great lineup of 2010 dreds of new vehicles, plus Saturday, March 14 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. vehicle debuts, plus many rub elbows with many of Sunday, March 15 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. new and exciting attractions,” Atlanta’s sports and media Mon-Thurs, March16-19 12:00 noon - 9:00 p.m. added Wilson. celebrities.

Friday, March 20 12:00 noon - 10:00 p.m.

The Atlanta JournalFor tickets to “A Night Saturday, March 21 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Constitution International of Cars & Stars,” please call Sunday, March 22 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Auto Show is the largest auto404-785-7370. motive event for the Metro The Metro Atlanta Box office closes one hour prior to the closing time of Atlanta dealers, featuring a Automobile Dealers the show daily. wide variety of styles, includAssociation is made up of ing luxury vehicles, economore than 170 franchised my cars, sports cars, exotics, new car and truck dealers from the 18 LINCOLN MKZ, MAZDA 3 SEDAN, MAZDA hybrids, alternative fuel vehicles, limited county Metro Atlanta area. The asso3 FIVE DOOR, and the MERCURY MILAN production cars, concepts, convertibles, ciation and its members strive to uphold HYBRID. vans, light trucks and 4-wheel drive vehithe highest standards of honesty and Marvel's Iron Man will appear at cles. It is also one of the 10 largest auto integrity and continuously work together the show during the opening weekend, shows in the nation. to improve the car buying experience for March 14-15. The 2008 movie featuring At press time, the following manuarea consumers. this super hero was one of the top box facturers have contracted to exhibiting at Admission to the Auto Show is office attractions of the year. the Auto Show: $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children Showgoers will also have the ACURA, AUDI, BMW, BUICK, 6-12 years old. Children under 6 are opportunity to see a unique collection of CADILLAC, CHEVROLET, CHRYSLER, admitted free. Monday - Thursday weekEuropean microcars during all nine days DODGE, FORD, GMC, HONDA, HUMMER, day discount coupons are available at of the show. If you think that the Smart HYUNDAI, INFINITI, JEEP, KIA, LAND all participating local new car dealers, Cars of today are really small, just wait ROVER, LEXUS, LINCOLN-MERCURY, and in select ads in the Atlanta Journaluntil you see these miniscule vehicles MAZDA, MERCEDES-BENZ, MINI, NISSAN, Constitution. from the 1940s and 1950s. This collecPONTIAC, SAAB, SATURN, SCION, SMART For more information, visit the tion belongs to Double Bubble execuCAR, SUBARU, TOYOTA, VOLKSWAGEN show’s website www.ajcautoshow.com. tive Bruce Weiner, who owns the largand VOLVO. n This site will have regular updates on est microcar museum in the world in At press time, the following 2010 show attractions and debuting vehicles.

Madison, Georgia. vehicles are scheduled to be exhibited at This site also offers memberships in the Nationwide Insurance is bringthe show: BUICK LACROSSE, CADILLAC Official AJC Auto Show Club, which offers ing the official Show Car of the NASCAR CTS SPORT WAGON, CHEVROLET a monthly email newsletter about the Nationwide Series to the auto show for EQUINOX, DODGE RAM HEAVY DUTY, event. There will be many more incena Show Car Pit Stop. Show patrons can FORD F-150 RAPTOR, FORD FUSION, tives for club members, including exclucheck out the show car, try their luck at FORD FUSION HYBRID, FORD MUSTANG, sive discounts for the event, plus the some games, and test their skills in the FORD TAURUS, KIA SOUL, LEXUS RX450h, opportunity to win prizesn racing simulator.

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Southern Automotive Journal

March 2009

Ram From Page 9 ple-to-navigate electronic and infotainment choices include uconnect gps with a 30-gigabyte hard drive and navigation system, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system available in the Quad Cab and crew cab. Also available is segmentfirst surround-sound audio and first-in-segment live SIRIUS Backseat TV™.

Other premium amenities include first-in-segment heated and ventilated front seats, available heated rear seats, first-for-Chrysler heated steering wheel, one-touch up/ down driver and passenger windows, automatic-on headlamps and dual-zone automatic temperature control – a first for Dodge Ram. On the exterior, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram features a redesigned aluminum hood with a large power bulge and a

forward-canted grille, imparting a “head down, ready to charge” attitude, while front and rear bumpers wrap around each body side. The rear bumper on HEMI-equipped models is radiused over

designed to stand out. The sculpted Ram’s-head badge on the tailgate is 250 percent larger than the previous badge.

The all-new interior of the 2009 Dodge Ram was the first “graduate” of the company’s new Advance Interior Design Studio. The 2009 Ram stands out with a renewed emphasis on craftsmanship expressed in premium interior appointments including six-ring instrumentation, redesigned controls, chrome accents, premium seating with improved bolsters and two-tone upholstery. An automatic-transmission floor Dodge Ram's interior was the first “graduate” of the shifter, incorporated into company’s new Advance Interior Design Studio. chromed a configudual exhaust tips – a first in light-duty rable center console, is available for the pickups. Attractive 20-inch wheels are first time in a Dodge Ram. All 2009 Dodge available in three styles. Sills are pulled Ram interiors are significantly upgraded down to cover frame rails for a prewith “soft-touch” materials that feature mium appearance. Badges are threeindustry-first two-tone technology and dimensional, rather than decals, and are premium fit and finish. n

March 2009

Southern Automotive Journal

13

Cash for Clunkers’ Program: A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing The Cash for Clunkers program being considered by Congress for inclusion in the economic stimulus package is really a wolf in sheep’s clothing, according to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association. The Cash for Clunkers program would earmark federal funds for car owners to trade-in their sport utility vehicles in exchange for vouchers to be used to obtain newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles. On the surface the program may sound reasonable, but its consequences will create issues for those not fortunate enough to afford the cost of a new vehicle and would be a waste of taxpayer dollars.

“The Cash for Clunkers program has unintended consequences that are not currently being consid-

ered by Congress,” said Aaron Lowe, vice president of government affairs for the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association. “Those seeking a ‘quick fix’ have failed to consider the impact of the program on lower and fixed income families as well as charities. By taking vehicles off the road that might be sold as used, the program will raise the price for all used vehicles, thus impacting those on limited income that cannot afford new vehicles. Further, since the parts on those vehicles that are scrapped could be sold as used or reconditioned, the program will cause an increase in repair prices for consumers.”

Congress and states have considered Cash for Clunkers proposals in the past and in many cases have decided

against them. Many legislators have come to realize the unintended consequences of this program and that they are not a cost effective use of government money.

“Providing incentives for individuals to purchase fuel-efficient vehicles or to have their current vehicle maintained would be a better use of federal money,” continued Lowe. “Cash for Clunkers programs might look good on paper, but in reality they are a bad idea and should be rejected by Congress.”

Interested parties can send an email in opposition to the Cash for Clunkers program to the Speaker of the House, the Senate Majority Leader and their congressional representatives by visiting www. fightcashforclunkers.org.n

Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection Adopts California Motor Vehicle Emission Standards Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection has adopted the California Motor Vehicle Emission Standards to establish a Florida LowEmission Vehicle (LEV) program. The rule now goes to the Florida legislature for ratification, but the following two things must happen prior to its implementation: 1. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must grant

14

Southern Automotive Journal

a waiver to California allowing it, and other adopting states, to enforce the greenhouse gas emission standards. and 2. The Florida legislature must ratify the Department’s rule.

Implementation will begin no sooner than 2013.

Excluded from Florida’s proposed rules are zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) provisions, therefore excluding super

March 2009

warranty regulations.

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) supports Florida’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in a costefficient manner, but opposes moving toward California’s super warranty provisions. ASA supports clean car programs that are practical and cost-effective, not programs that harm small businesses and have a long-term negative impact on consumers.n

OEConnection Unveils Next-generation Collisionlink®Technology To Drive Auto Dealership Parts Department Profitability OEConnection LLC, recently announced the launch of a new version of its CollisionLink product for wholesale auto dealerships filling crash parts orders. Additionally, a new Collision Reporting product is now available to help dealerships analyze salesperson and customer performance and to identify business opportunities to sell more OE collision parts.

Chuck Rotuno, OEConnection President & CEO said, “We’re excited by these two developments – the next generation of CollisionLink and the new Collision Reporting product.

CollisionLink 5.0 and Collision Reporting demonstrate OEConnection’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art solutions to our customers.

OEConnection continuously invests in our products to increase customer satisfaction, with the ultimate goal of driving dealership parts department profitability.” CollisionLink 5.0 was built with the active involvement of current users to make the product faster than ever, easier to use, more intuitive for new users, and to enable dealerships to grow their OE collision parts sales.

CollisionLink is the first in the suite of OEConnection’s portfolio of Internet-based tools to be re-architected to take advantage of OEConnection’s new e-commerce platform. “On-line parts ordering through CollisionLink is quickly becoming an industry standard”, said Mark Tomasetti, OEConnection Vice President & General Manager, Collision and Mechanical Solutions. “This creates great opportunities for us to deliver new tools for parts professionals to improve their business.

Collision Reporting is just such a tool, providing parts managers an unprecedented view of the collision parts market, their shop customers and lost sales opportunities they can pursue.”

“Our dealership is now filling over 65% of our parts orders

online using CollisionLink technology,” said Dan Hutton, Parts Manager at Tom O’Brien Chrysler Jeep in Greenwood, Indiana. “We’re processing over a half million dollars in wholesale business each month with just 3 people – it used to take 5 or 6 people to do that same volume. We worked closely with OEConnection to define the new CollisionLink 5.0 and we’re very excited about the benefits it will bring us in the future and how it will help our dealership do more business with fewer resources in 2009.”

CollisionLink 5.0 and Collision Reporting improve a wholesaler’s processes while a dealership transitions their collision shop customers from manual to online parts ordering. These solutions

March 2009

help both dealers and shops eliminate parts returns which can mean hours of saved administrative time each week for both parties. Parts departments can receive orders 24/7, improve CSI through a streamlined order fulfillment process, and process parts orders faster and more accurately using CollisionLink’s automatic part validation and instant VIN-based error-checking.

CollisionLink 5.0 will be rolled out to new and existing customers in spring 2009. Collision Reporting is available immediately to all CollisionLink subscribers. OEConnection unveiled the new CollisionLink 5.0 software and Collision Reporting in New Orleans at the National Auto Dealers Association (NADA), annual convention held January 24-27, 2009.n

Southern Automotive Journal

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MEMA, OESA Working to Identify Credit Solutions for Parts Supplier Industry As a result of the ongoing credit crisis and resulting reductions in automobile production, the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) and Original Equipment Suppliers Associations (OESA) are exploring options to address the immediate cash needs and longer term viability of the motor vehicle parts supplier industry. The associations have been in active communication with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, members of Congress and the Obama administration to address the financial urgency faced by suppliers, but state that no formal request has been submitted to Treasury.

“We have had constructive conversations with Treasury and elected officials in Washington, but no official request has been submitted at this time,” said Bob McKenna, president and CEO of MEMA. “Suppliers now face unprecedented challenges that have created a crisis in our industry with consequences for the nation’s economy as a whole.”

McKenna noted that the supplier industry, which represents the largest manufacturing sector in the United States, cannot access credit from traditional lenders to fund normal operating expenditures. Without immediate credit availability, an onslaught of supplier

company bankruptcies is inevitable in the coming weeks and months, which would have a devastating long-term effect on the U.S. economy, ultimately costing more money and significantly weakening the country’s manufacturing base.

For more than a decade, the parts manufacturing industry has experienced significant consolidation and will continue to do so. According to OESA, 20,000 companies supplied automakers in 1990; today, that number is less than 5,000, primarily due to mergers, acquisitions and companies exiting the industry. However, without access to traditional credit, the attrition that has been occurring at a rapid and healthy pace cannot continue.

Considering the interwoven relationships between parts manufacturers and carmakers, as well as the impact of these organizations on their communities, supplier bankruptcies will be disruptive to every automaker worldwide and costly to the already fragile U.S. economy.

MEMA and OESA have presented national leaders with three options which could be individually or collectively implemented: -- Provide funds for vehicle manufacturers that have received previous funding through the Troubled Asset

Relief Program (TARP) to institute an immediate, quicker pay program for their suppliers.

-- Guarantee the receivables of suppliers of Chrysler, Ford and General Motors. This option will enable suppliers to use receivables once again as collateral for working capital loans from traditional banking sources.

-- Provide suppliers with direct access to TARP funds.

In addition, MEMA and OESA state that the financial crisis, coupled with a continued decline in vehicle sales, necessitates the administration’s appointment of a car czar.

“These options are being evaluated and discussed actively with Treasury and congressional representatives. Because of the urgency, we believe all options -- including these -- should be fully explored, and we will continue to work with our nation’s leaders on these important issues,” said Neil De Koker, OESA president and CEO. “Action is needed because it is impossible to separate the financial health of suppliers from that of vehicle manufacturers. The failure of one or more key suppliers -- large or small -can shut down entire supply chains and result in the closing of multiple vehicle assembly plants, directly affecting the future viability of domestic and foreign manufacturers.”n

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Southern Automotive Journal

March 2009

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Engineered For Sports Car Dynamics The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is engineered to provide an exhilarating driving experience, with agile, responsive handling that does not force the driver to sacrifice everyday driving comfort.

The basis for Lancer Ralliart’s engaging, fundriving character is a global per formanceengineered platform optimized from the beginning to handle high levels of power, and the high levels of grip made possible by Mitsubishi’s advanced 4WD systems. This platform was introduced first for the 2007 Outlander SUV, a vehicle that provides uncommonly energetic driving responses for its segment.

An advanced All-Wheel Control system with Active Center Differential (ACD) works in concert with Ralliarttuned chassis to make the Lancer Ralliart an aggressive twisty-road tamer.

Standard 10-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R18 Yokohama ADVAN summer tires and large 4-wheel disc brakes give the Lancer Ralliart outstanding grip and stopping performance. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) incorporates Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Safety-Optimized RISE Body Structure The Lancer models are built around Mitsubishi’s next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) unibody design. The highly rigid structure makes extensive use of ultrahigh-tension steel, a material that was not used in the previous-generation Lancer. A stiff body structure can allow sport suspension tuning without compromising a compliant ride.

Compared to the previous-generation Lancer, torsional rigidity is

increased by 56 percent, and bending rigidity is up by 50 percent. These increases in both torsional and bending rigidity exceed body stiffness measurements of even the previous-generation Lancer Evolution.

Straight front side members with an octagonal cross-section and a threeleg support structure, as well as application high-strength steel, are designed to help Lancer models meet the highest crash test standards. The side pillars, roof joints and cross-car structure - combined with the standard front seat-mounted side air bags, driver knee air bag and standard front and rear curtain side air bags - give the new Lancer a higher degree of collision protection.

Rigidity Throughout The lower body structure, where the suspension attaches to the car, also demonstrates the benefits of higher rigidity. Here, one can appreciate the holistic approach engineers used to achieve this goal. As one example, the Lancer’s new-generation engines use a rear-mounted exhaust manifold, as opposed to the front-mounted exhaust manifold on the previous-generation Lancer engines. That change allowed use of a flat front suspension crossmember, where the previous model required a saddle-shaped crossmember to provide clearance for the exhaust pipe. A March 2009

flat front crossmember can directly receive lateral loads from the front lower arms.

Strut tower, side and lower braces enhance lateral rigidity for precise steering response, and lower control arm attachment points and steering knuckles are strengthened.

The combination of these enhancements, along with retuned lower control arm bushings, contribute to quicker steering response in the newgeneration Lancer models.

Redesigned Front Suspension The MacPherson strut front suspension is the same as used in the Lancer GTS, but with specific tuning for the Ralliart 4WD application, including higher spring and damper rates. The Lancer Ralliart employs a 22-mm front stabilizer bar (vs. 21 mm for Lancer GTS and 25 mm for Lancer Evolution) and higher spring and damper rates. The stabilizer strut helps ensure optimal roll rigidity and improved steering stability.

Multi-link Rear Suspension The Lancer Ralliart is equipped with its own version of the trailing-arm type multi-link rear suspension used on other Lancer models, featuring specific cast trailing arms.

The Lancer Ralliart features the same 20-mm (0.79-in.) rear stabilizer bar as the Lancer GTS (vs. 23 mm for Lancer Evolution) but features higherrate springs and dampers. Ball joint-type stabilizer links and a hub unit bearing provide high camber and toe rigidity.

Crisp, Responsive Steering The Lancer Ralliart shares the Ralliart Please Turn To Page 29 Southern Automotive Journal

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OEConnection and Snap-On Business Solutions Unveil New Automotive Parts Sales Solution

Snap-on Business Solutions Inc. and OEConnection LLC revealed a collaborative solution designed to help franchised automotive dealerships sell mechanical replacement parts to independent repair facilities. The integrated solutions, RepairLink with MORE, will drastically simplify the process through which independent repair shops find, order, and receive replacement automotive parts from original equipment dealers in the U.S. “To say that this solution comes at a critical time for the automotive industry would be an understatement,” says Mary Beth Siddons, President of Snapon Business Solutions. “We at Snap-on and OEConnection are committed to and beyond excited by this opportunity to provide our partners in the automotive dealership space with the innovative, unprecedented tools they need to be able to sell more parts.”

RepairLink with MORE (Mechanical Original Replacement Equipment) is a single-source online sales channel through which independent repair facilities will be able to order genuine automotive parts from franchised dealerships for every vehicle they service.

No such unified sales channel for original automotive parts exists today.

Charles Rotuno, President and Chief Executive Officer of OEConnection, says, “The automotive OE replacement parts industry faces increasingly tougher competition with aftermarket parts.

The combination of RepairLink with MORE will help auto manufacturers and dealerships grow their parts businesses by dramatically enhancing the customer experience.”

Snap-on and OEConnection are uniquely positioned to offer this enhanced ordering capability, with tremendously complementary products, customers, and technologies. In the U.S., OEConnection and Snap-on Business Solutions serve a combined footprint of over 15,000 franchised automotive dealerships. In addition, Snap-on enjoys exceptional brand recognition in the independent repair community, and provides nearly half of the independent repair shops in the

U.S. with service estimate and busiand General Manager for Collision ness management solutions through its and Mechanical Solutions added, Mitchell 1 business unit.

“RepairLink with MORE is the kind of RepairLink with MORE addresses solution that can only come about some of the key factors that drive indewhen specific technological specializapendent shops’ decisions about where tions are merged together. Integrating they source parts. The solution gives our own online electronic parts comindependent shops immediate access merce technologies with the unique to current part pricing and availability data reach and catalog creation experthrough a robust, convenient e-comtise of our partners at Snap-on cremerce storefront. This service provides ates an unparalleled opportunity for OEM quality parts data, including VIN automotive dealerships to sell more filtering and technical illustrations, for OE parts, streamline processes, increase every part they service. It also autoprofits, and improve customer service mates the ordering process and proeven in these challenging economic vides instant delivery updates. climates.”

By addressing the key factors of NADA 2009 marks the public pricing, availability, ease of ordering, revealing of RepairLink with MORE by and delivery, RepairLink with MORE will Snap-on and OEConnection. Plans are immediately increase the capability of in place to begin rolling the service out dealers to compete with aftermarket in select markets in May 2009.n parts suppliers in the independent repair segment.

“RepairLink with MORE will make it much easier for independent shops to buy quality original parts,” says Volume 13 Issue No. 3 Ken Satz, Product Manager for Snap-on Business Solutions. “Right Southern Automotive Jim Tucker Contributors now, those shops Journal Publisher Dennis Martin only get about 20 P.O. Box 675097 Ami Vonesh Marietta, Ga 30006-0009 percent of their Michele Tucker Joyce Ethridge (770) 321-9920 parts from original Editor Russ Heaps E-Mail equipment dealjtucker@sajonline.net ers. By eliminating the hassle of ordering by phone and Southern Automotive Journal (ISSN: 1092-6321) is published by putting part monthly by Southern Automotive Journal Inc. P.O. Box 675097, availability right Marietta, Ga 30006-0009.SAJ accepts no responsibility for the at the fingertips opinions, views statements of the authors or for claims made by of independent advertisers. Views expressed by writers are not necessarily those shops, both they of the publication. Subscription: $12.00 per year. and their customNo representation is made as to the accuracy or the completeers are certain to ness of the information provided by this publication. Entire conbenefit.” tents copyright 2009. All rights reserved.

M a r k Tomaset ti, OEConnec tion’s Vice President March 2009

Southern Automotive Journal

21

Repair Costs From Page 10 not have surfaced until launch to be flagged and corrected in the virtual world. Ford uses cutting edge virtual tools to verify up to 40,000 design standards in its Virtual Engineer Lab. Virtual technology also is used to confirm that the product can be manufactured with quality in the assembly plant for which it is slated.

Ford also provides assembly plant teams the necessary tools to deliver quality in the manufacturing process.

For example, the company’s Quality Operating System (QOS) is critical for

22 Southern Automotive Journal

identifying and correcting problems within the manufacturing facilities.

QOS is implemented in each plant

by Variability Reduction Teams (VRT) - cross-functional groups of engineers, plant management and product specialists, including the company’s most skilled problem solvers who’ve been trained through Six Sigma. Each team is assigned to one of 12 vehicle subsystems crucial to customer satisfaction, such as paint or body interior, and examines every detail, looking for imperfections so slight that even the untrained eye, or ear, could not detect them.

March 2009

For example, Ford’s 2010 Taurus was subjected to rigorous testing for squeaks and rattles at each design phase. Every inch of the vehicle was scrutinized for unwanted noise from the outside in, down to the sound of the Easy Fuel(TM) Capless Fuel Filler door when it’s closed.

Another example includes the development of Ford’s new fuel-efficient 3.5- liter EcoBoost V-6 engine. By the time the first twin-turbocharged, direct injection engine is decked to a 2010 Lincoln MKS this summer at the Chicago Assembly Plant, the equivalent of more than one-million grueling test miles will have been logged by EcoBoost prototypes.

Ford also uses a process called Early Claims Binning to help streamline communications about potential quality issues between plants and dealerships.

Warranty claims are fed to the assembly plant every day where the issue is dissected and either traced back to the installation process and addressed onsite or fed back to the design engineer for resolution in design.

Ford’s commitment to deliver the best quality possible for its customers is unwavering and the company is committed to pushing its quality levels even higher.

As Ford’s newest vehicles hit the road, company officials expect warranty claims to continue their downward trend.

“I see the recent $1.2 billion in worldwide warranty cost savings as a compelling reason to continue down this path,” Yun said. “Instead of setting aside those funds to fix cars, we’d much rather invest it in exciting product programs for our customers.”

Ford’s commitment to world-class quality extends beyond preventing things that go wrong. Customer-driven product features, such as fuel economy, craftsmanship, and quiet interiors are designed into the vehicle to deliver an exceptional and affordable ownership experience.

“This is One Ford at its best,” said Fowler. “It has taken thousands of dedicated people, from the plant floor to the executive suite, working together to strive for quality every day.”n

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National Auto Fraud and Theft Prevention System Goes Live The U.S. Department of Justice today announced the availability of an on-line computer system to help protect states and consumers from automobile fraud and to provide law enforcement with new tools to investigate fraud, theft, and other crimes involving vehicles. The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System, or NMVTIS, will be available for consumers on January 30, 2009 and will be accessible through third party, fee-for-service Web sites. The Office of Justice Programs’ (OJP) Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) administers NMVTIS in coordination with the Federal Bureau of

24

Southern Automotive Journal

Investigation (FBI).

The system allows state motor vehicle administrators to verify and exchange titling and brand data and provides law enforcement officials, consumers and others with critical information regarding vehicle histories. Consumers now have access to the vehicle’s brand history, odometer data and basic vehicle information and can be redirected to the current state of record to access the full title record if available. Law enforcement can track the vehicle’s status from state to state by accessing the system directly.

According to the National Insurance

March 2009

Crime Bureau, car theft is a profitable business generating nearly $8 billion a year. Along with implementing this system, the Department has outlined the various responsibilities and reporting requirements for states, auto recyclers, junk yards and salvage yards, and insurance carriers. The Department has designed the system consistent with federal law that requires that the system be paid for through user fees and not dependent on federal funding.

Since 1997, the Department of Justice has committed over $15 million to assist states and other stakeholders in the implementation of NMVTIS. Currently, NMVTIS has the participation, or partial participation, of 36 states. Ultimately, with full participation from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, NMVTIS will prevent stolen motor vehicles, including clones, from entering into interstate commerce, protect states and consumers from fraud, reduce the use of stolen vehicles for illicit purposes including fundraising for criminal enterprises, and provide consumer protection from unsafe vehicles. In research conducted by the Logistics Management Institute, the system is estimated to save taxpayers between $4 and $11 billion each year. For further information on NMVTIS, visit www.nmvtis.gov.

The Office of Justice Programs, headed by Acting Assistant Attorney General Laurie Robinson, provides federal leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to prevent and control crime, administer justice, and assist victims. OJP has five component bureaus: the Bureau of Justice Assistance; the Bureau of Justice Statistics; the National Institute of Justice; the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention; and the Office for Victims of Crime.

Additionally, OJP has two program offices: the Community Capacity Development Office, which incorporates the Weed and Seed strategy, and the Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, and Tracking (SMART). More information can be found at http://www. ojp.gov.n

Reynolds Consulting Services’ Virtual Customer Care Center Gives Dealerships the Roadmap to Great Service in the Eyes of Consumers The Reynolds and Reynolds use to improve operations and create a helping dealerships make the most of Company announced that its Virtual better experience for their customers. every sales and service customer interacCustomer Care Center (VC3) is helping By acting on what they learn from the tion, which is particularly important in automotive retailers uncover what they VC3 surveys, dealership managers can light of the current economic climate,” did well or where they need improveimprove operations to ultimately create Hiers concluded. “Through this service, ment in the eyes of their customers. more satisfied buyers and increase sales, we’re able to put in place the consistent Acting as a virtual Business Development which dealerships who participated in processes, skilled resources, and robust Center (BDC) for the dealership, Reynolds the initial rollout VC3 were able do and reporting tools that enable dealerships professional callers perform follow-up see results. to maintain high customer satisfaction, telephone surveys to the dealership’s “The Virtual Customer Care Center improve their operations, and achieve sales and service customers, as well as to is one more way Reynolds is focused on their desired business results.”n prospects that did not make a vehicle purchase, from records in the dealership’s ERA(R) Contact Management system.

These calls provide the consumer feedback that can help dealerships improve customer relationships and increase sales. e “A common theme among Ste v with 30 Years of GM ome c Parts Experience l e dealers that we hear in our conW Local We 770.274.1131 versations with them and in our Toll Free: research is that they want to 1.800.727.5920 STEVE know why a customer left their dealership without buying a GM Exclusise Parts Team ! car,” said Trey Hiers, vice presible a l i Direct GM dent, Corporate Marketing, at Ava ow 706-776-1144 N Reynolds. “It’s a mystery that can Toll Free keep dealership management 866-262-7407 DONALD up at night, and one they’re conFax MANAGER Ext. 706-776-7398 tinually trying to solve. This ser125 vice can help answer the ‘why not’ question for dealers.”

VC3 survey calls can be JIMMY KEN AJ ROGER targeted to consumers who EXT. EXT. EXT. chose not to make a purchase 126 135 123 at the dealership, or they can Direct Conncect Sales for GM - Chrysler -Aftermarket be placed to customers after a vehicle sale or service appointment is completed. Prior to performing customer calls, VC3 KELI CHRIS MATT FRANKLIN ANDY LEE processes are developed on-site KEVIN ARNOLD Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local with Reynolds’ implementation 478.971.1379 770.274.1127 770.274.1121 770.274.1130 770.274.1128 770.274.1122 770.274.1123 770.274.1126 Toll Free: Toll Free: Toll Free: Toll Free: Toll Free: Toll Free: Toll Free: Toll Free: experts to help tailor the service 1.800.727.5912 1.800.727.4702 1.800.727.5593 1.866.399.4245 1.800.727.5611 1.800.344.9017 1.800.727.5015 1.800.727.5641 FAX to the dealership.

478.971.8248 Customer Support Call results and any cusCustomer Ser vice Team tomer appointments generated from the VC3 surveys are loaded directly into the dealership’s ERA CHUCK BRENDA Contact Management system AFTERMARKET MANAGER MARKETING MANAGER CLIFF JERRY DAN JIM for immediate use by dealership personnel. Moreover, VC3 survey reports provide dealership management with timely, constructive feedback they can March 2009

Southern Automotive Journal

25

Less Than A Year Since The Bill Reilly’s Union City Toyota Sign Appeared on Jonesboro Road In Union City

By Russ Heaps It has been less than a year since the Bill Reilly’s Union City Toyota sign appeared on Jonesboro Road in Union City, Georgia. Officially changing hands on August 1, 2008, a page was turned and the store was no longer Legacy Toyota. Among the assets Bill Reilly acquired with the bricks and mortar was a smooth-running Parts Department and its manager, Larry Newberry.

Earning his stripes as an ASE Master Technician, Newberry had been servicing cars at the dealership for seven years when he was tapped to take over the parts department four years ago.

Unsure of his qualifications for the job, he did know how frustrated he had been as a service technician waiting for high-turn parts that should have always been in stock to be ordered, as well as sloppy- inventory keeping slowing down the process for parts that actually were in stock. “As a tech, I hated waiting on parts,” he stated.

As Newberry remembers it, the previous owner explained his reasoning for offering him the parts manager position by saying, “You know people; and because you know people, I think you can handle it.”

With that small bit of encouragement, Newberry set out to turn around the department. There was a lot of work to be done. The fill rate at the time was somewhere in the neighborhood of 60 percent. Parts that were cataloged as being in stock were either in the wrong spot or missing entirely. The inventory was a mess.

With no real background in operating a parts department, Newberry turned to the closest source at hand: Toyota Motor Sales. TMS has recommended procedures for ordering, stocking and tracking inventory – none of which were in place when Newberry assumed control. He made sweeping changes in the way the department functioned. “How 26

Southern Automotive Journal

Bill Reilly Toyota 4115 Jonesboro Road Union City GA30291 Owner: Bill Reilly Website: http://billreillysunioncitytoyota.com E-mail: lnewberry@billreillytoyota.com Nationwide Toll Free 888-698-3853 Direct 770-692-2900 FAX 770-969-0887

March 2009

"I share Bill Reilly's philosophy of one customer at a time."

Larry Newberry Parts Manager ASE Master Technician

Monday - Saturday 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM Fill Rate 94%

Bob Doke

Nicole Blisett

Alisha Moore

Allen Todd

can you expect things to get better if you keep doing the same things?” he reflected.

Armed with TMS instructions on all things parts-department related, Newberry set to work. He is quick to explain that transforming the parts department from what it was into what it is today wasn’t a one-man effort. He inherAntweyne ited Gary Webster, his Williamson assistant manager. With 13 years of parts experience at the time, Webster was instrumental in helping him reshape the operation.

Today the fill rate is at 94 percent and climbing. The 10,000 square-foot department is typically stocked with $250,000 to $500,000 of inventory. It’s not as much inventory as other Toyota stores might Gary stock, Newberry admits, Webster but he is obsessive about what parts are always available. “We follow Toyota policy and procedures for ordering parts,” he said. “In the beginning, I got Toyota to help set it up.”

It was really just a matter of weeding out those parts that were rarely needed, replacing them with more of the high-turn parts. “Toyota recommends a system of just-in-time ordering,” Newberry explained. “We restructured the inventory to reduce the number of the same parts.”

Newberry also reorganized the inventory to streamline and speed up the process for getting parts into the hands of customers and the dealership’s service technicians.

March 2009

“Inventory isn’t just what you have, but how you stock it,” he said. “We’ve adopted Toyota’s Seven Storage Techniques.

The inventory’s not arranged according to number, but according to turn rates.

The higher the turn rate a part has, the closer it is. We’ve reduced walking time and made the system more efficient.”

Another goal Newberry set for himself early on was to increase the department’s wholesale business. For him increasing wholesale sales wasn’t just a goal but one of his biggest challenges. He addressed it within days of assuming his new management job; taking to the road, he wanted to personally meet his wholesale-customer base. “I got on the road in my vehicle,” he said. “Using my own gas and buying my own lunches, I drove thousands of miles to talk to wholesale customers to find out exactly what they need. I was out of the department a couple of days a week for months.”

The effort paid off and not only did wholesale business flourish but the service department also saw some added business. “I wasn’t only landing wholesale accounts,” he explained, “but service accounts as well. Some of my wholesale customers bring all their service work here now.”

Today Bill Reilly’s Union City Toyota has the fastest growing wholesale sales among Toyota dealers in the region running from I-20 to the Georgia-Florida border. The bulk of their wholesale customers is within a 75-mile radius of the dealership and serviced by three delivery trucks, but parts have been sent as far as the state of Washington. Sharing in the credit for the wholesale gains is 24-year parts veteran Robert Doke, who Newberry hired along with the remaining five members of the parts team.

Believing that a team that plays together will also work better together, Newberry encourages his staff to get together outside the dealership walls.

“As a department we do things outside of work,” he said. “We’ll go bowling or Reilly Toyota Please Turn To Page 28 Southern Automotive Journal

27

Reilly Toyota From Page 27 ing. I took a bunch of them to Panama City fishing last year. We all got together and started to act as a family.”

Always doing a better job is important to Newberry. It is sort of his mantra. In that spirit he has orchestrated

cross training for the team, so that every team member can fill in when and where needed. “Everyone is a stock clerk,” he explained. “Everyone has assigned bins they are in charge of.”

Newberry shares a philosophy of one customer at a time with owner Bill Reilly. Giving each customer the attention

and service he deserves is what Newberry considers the hallmark of the parts department and the dealership as a whole. “Mr. Reilly’s policy is the customer experience,” Newberry clarified. “He wants us to wow our customers and over-service them.

And he has given me the tools to make this department better.”n

Equipment and Tool Institute’s Launches Important Market Research Study In an effort to assist our members in bringing new and improved equipment and tools to the marketplace, The Equipment and Tool Institute (ETI) is launching a series of Market Research Projects. The first survey covers Flash Reprogramming, or J2534 as it is also known.

We are surveying automotive repair facilities in an effort to find out

28

Southern Automotive Journal

more about their familiarity with and use of flash reprogramming tools. ETI will use this research to help all segments of the automotive industry provide aftermarket shops with better flash reprogramming solutions.

If you are part of an automotive repair facility and are interested in participating in our first survey, please go to the following link: www.a-i-m.com/tools.

March 2009

This survey can only be taken on-line.

Other marketing research will follow. The specifics of each research project will be organized to correspond with ETI’s equipment focus groups. They are: Collision Repair Equipment Under Hood Equipment Under Car Equipment Software/Information products n

Ralliart From Page 19 same basic steering system as the Lancer GTS, with minor differences in pump specifications that create a sensation of steering speed and response that is between Lancer GTS and Lancer Evolution.

The hydraulic system is optimized for greater e f f i ci e n c y, reliability and reduced pump noise.

A variableflow pump contributes to fuel efficiency. The optimized steering column layout features joint friction-reduction parts that improve steering feel (reduced torque fluctuation). Dampers used on the intermediate shaft help reduce shimmy. The smaller diameter Lancer Ralliart steer-

ing wheel, borrowed from the Evolution also contributes to a feeling of faster steering response.

Confident Braking Performance The 2009 Lancer Ralliart not only tames curves, but does so with the confident stopping

power of the same brakes as the larger, heavier Outlander SUV -- 11.6-in. (294 mm) vented discs in front and 11.9-in.

(302 mm) solid discs in rear. This is essentially the same brake system used

March 2009

on the Lancer GTS, the differences being dual-piston calipers on the front brakes in the Ralliart, vs. single-piston on the GTS, and slightly larger-

d i a m eter pistons for the single-piston rear brakes. Front rotors on both models measure 1.0 in. thick, and the rear rotors are 0.4 in. thick.

Both use high-friction coefficient pads to improve performance. The single 10in. brake vacuum booster, with a longstroke master cylinder, optimize boost power and brake feel. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) incorporates Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).n

Southern Automotive Journal

29

SCRS Applauds Free OEM Information Availability As the industry sees an increasing trend in the complexity of repairing today’s highly advanced automobiles, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) would like to reiterate the industry’s appreciation to Chrysler LLC (Chrysler) and General Motors Corporation (GM), as well as the OEM Roundtable, who have made great strides in providing easy and organized access to technical collision repair information through www.OEM1STOP.com.

SCRS would further like to acknowledge GM and Chrysler for going above and beyond what is considered normal customer service by providing their collision repair information free-of-charge to everyone.

Having access to the technical collision repair information is no longer a luxury, but a necessity in today’s collision repair facility. It is often difficult to obtain that information without heavily investing in the ability to access it. For

Chrysler, who joins GM, to recognize the necessity of the information within the industry and to create opportunities that make their repair guidelines available, is truly beneficial to the entire industry as well as the motoring public.

“Chrysler and General Motors have continued to go ‘above and beyond’ in their commitment to their customers and the collision industry at large,” said Farzam Afshar, SCRS Past Chairman and CEO and co-founder of VeriFacts Automotive. “When an OEM provides the technical information the industry needs to repair the vehicles properly at no additional expense, it is an invaluable service to all SCRS members and collision repair centers around the country.”

“Today’s vehicles and technologies don’t afford the opportunity to perform repairs in the same manner we always have in previous years,” added Gary Wano, SCRS Chairman and owner of G.W. and Son Auto Body Shop, Inc. “We need

access to the most current information to ensure that repairers are performing the most proper and safe repairs to our customer’s vehicles. These companies and any organization within the industry that works together to expand the knowledge and ability to perform the most accurate repair possible should be wholeheartedly commended for their service to the industry.”

SCRS appreciates companies that support the idea that “Working Together Is The Most Important Work We Do,” and whose actions demonstrate their dedication to doing the right things for the right reasons. SCRS encourages all manufacturers to consider opportunities that would consistently provide free and accessible methods of obtaining technical information to the industry.

As a collision repair association, we look forward to the continued opportunity to applaud excellence in service of this nature.n

Parts Managers Why Setttle For Only Part of Your Delivery Area?

Buick Enclave

We Go Where You Go

Supplier Spotlight

COLLISION NEWS

Nalley Nissan

January 2008

EPA Publishes Final Auto Refinishing Regulation

Kia Debuts KND-4 Concept Vehicle

Recycled Rides Vehicle Donation Program Reinforces the Positive Imageof the Collision Industry

MECHANICAL NEWS ASA Testifies in Opposition to Super Warranties at Florida DEP Workshop More Congressional Support for ‘Right to Repair’ Legislation

DEALER NEWS Volvo Announces New Collision Avoidance Package

Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the all-new KND-4 compact SUV concept vehicle at the Los Angeles International Auto Show in November. Having made its world debut at the Seoul Motor Show in April 2007, the KND-4 concept was specifically designed to provide an idea of what next-generation Kia compact SUVs will be like. Conceived at the Kia Design Center in Korea, the new concept exhibits a powerful and strong character that corresponds with Kia’s philosophy of “Exciting and Enabling.”

“The KND-4 compact SUV is a vital vehicle because it showcases dynamic and sophisticated styling cues that are strongly indicative of future Kia SUV models,” said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of KMA.

Suzuki Selects Au Oeconnection To Advance di TT Parts Supply Chain

“Designed with active and independent consumers in mind, KND-4 demonstrates Kia’s ongoing commitment to making vehicles that are both stylish and technologically advanced.”

Athletic and Sleek Exterior KND-4 appeals to consumers who crave freedom and an active lifestyle, while removing the boundary between the city and outdoors to allow the driver to express his or her unique personality. The swift, rounded front end features LED headlamps and a sleek radiator grille, which flows smoothly into flared KND-4 Please Turn to Page 12

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