Solera, XTool Partner on Diagnostic Scan Tools 16 May 4:15 AM (yesterday, 4:15 am)
Solera | Identifix, an automotive diagnostics and repair solutions provider, announced a new partnership with XTool. The relationship allows Direct-Hit®, a trusted repair information source, to integrate with XTool’s automotive diagnostic scan tools.
This collaboration creates a streamlined diagnostic and repair experience for professional technicians.
Starting mid-Q2, technicians using XTool’s Prodigy (13.3-inch) and Compass scan tools will be connected seamlessly to Direct-Hit’s repair database. These tools give technicians access to OE manuals, service data and multiple cross-reference wiring diagrams.
Technicians can also use Hotline Archives and millions of Confirmed Fixes for real-world repair solutions.
Identifix’s ASE-certified, technician-submitted shortcuts help others find fixes quickly and return vehicles to the road safely, the company said.
Industry Leaders Highlight Integration Benefits
Haresh Gobin, vice president of product and marketing at XTool U.S., called the offering a game-changer for the industry:
“As we assessed the landscape of the automotive repair informatics industry. Our vision was to not only just add another run of the mill- feature for the sake of it, our wish was to integrate the best possible solution into our scan tool platform to enable our scan tool users to become faster with pinpoint quality accuracy in their day-to-day diagnostic methodologies and repairs – enabling their shops to maximize revenue and profit. There was undeniably only one option in the industry that would make this a reality, Identifix’s Direct-Hit product. We are extremely delighted that Identifix saw the potential in our product and was open to this collaboration.”
Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tools Enhance Technician Efficiency
This move brings Identifix closer to technicians by integrating at the vehicle, during the diagnostic stage.
Direct-Hit integration removes the need to switch devices or platforms, streamlining the repair process.
Technicians now diagnose problems faster, reduce vehicle downtime, and increase service bay efficiency. These improvements give auto shops a clearer path to higher productivity and profitability.
Meredith Zimmerman, SVP of Repair Solutions at Solera, emphasized the broader impact on the industry:
“This offering is a major step forward in how diagnostic and repair intelligence is delivered. With Direct-Hit accessible through the XTool platform, we’ve removed barriers and empowered technicians with instant, in-bay access to the insights they rely on every day. It’s a smart, fast path to accurate repairs and a more productive shop floor.”
A Shared Commitment to Innovation
This relationship shows both companies’ shared commitment to helping professionals with integrated diagnostics and repair technology.
They aim to simplify workflows and boost technician efficiency with comprehensive, real-time tools. They also continue to create technology that increases shop efficiency and profitability.
The post Solera, XTool Partner on Diagnostic Scan Tools appeared first on aftermarketNews.
Technician Education Drives Casey O’Sullivan’s Success 16 May 4:00 AM (yesterday, 4:00 am)
When Casey O’Sullivan, shop foreman at Interstate Auto Care in Madison Heights, Michigan, received an unexpected call to the front office earlier this year, he braced for the worst.
“I had no idea what was happening,” O’Sullivan recalled. “I got called up front into the office, which is usually not a good thing.”
Instead, he learned he had been named the Auto-Wares Group of Companies’ Technician of the Year. He earned the opportunity to represent Auto-Wares at the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance’s national Technician of the Year competition.
“It’s definitely a huge honor,” O’Sullivan said. “I know it was a pretty deep talent pool in this area, so when I found out I was the winner, I was pretty surprised.”
Technicians like O’Sullivan play a critical role in the automotive service and repair chain. They rely on timely parts availability and trusted relationships with counter professionals for technical support and solutions. Understanding the career paths and motivations of skilled technicians provides valuable insights for aftermarket leaders.
Early Learning Leads to Ongoing Technician Education
Growing up, O’Sullivan had a natural curiosity for how things worked. He tinkered with the family car, lawn mower and dishwasher. This hands-on interest led him to take every auto shop class available in high school.
As his classmates pursued business and engineering degrees, O’Sullivan followed a different path. A supportive auto shop teacher encouraged him to see the long-term opportunities in skilled trades.
“Back then, skilled trades like plumbing, electrical work and auto repair were seen almost like a four-letter word,” O’Sullivan said. “But I did some research, and my auto shop teacher helped me see that there was going to be a massive shortage of people in this field over the next 20 years. That convinced me to stick with it.”
Technician Education as a Path to Success
O’Sullivan’s success comes from more than just natural talent. His commitment to technician education has been essential to his professional growth.
“The fundamentals I had down pretty good, but I quickly learned that if you’re going to be the kind of technician that’s an ASE [certified], you need a broad span of knowledge,” he said. “You’re not just working on one type of car all the time. Every manufacturer does things a little differently, so you have to constantly expand your understanding.”
To keep pace, O’Sullivan took advanced automotive courses at Oakland Community College. He earned certifications in suspension, engine mechanics and brakes. When traditional training programs didn’t cover all his needs, he pursued industry-sponsored classes, online videos and advice from peers.
Dedication and Loyalty Build Long-Term Success
O’Sullivan’s loyalty to his employer, Interstate Auto Care, is similar to the strong customer relationships many executives strive to foster within their organizations.
“It’s a very family atmosphere here, and they’ve always treated me like family,” he said. “They’ve always worked with my issues. They’ve been very kind to me, and I have a very strong sense of loyalty, so I try to reciprocate that. It’s just worked.”
Despite other career opportunities, O’Sullivan has chosen to remain loyal. He values the partnership that has developed over decades.
“I’ve had other opportunities come up, but I just can’t justify breaking the connection,” he said. “It’s a partnership that has worked for both sides, and that’s not something you walk away from lightly.”
For O’Sullivan, this work is more than just a job—it’s a passion.
“If I were rich and I didn’t need to make any more money, I would still do this for free,” he said. “I enjoy it. I have a job that I enjoy doing, and how many people in life can actually say that?”
For the full story, visit the Counterman website.
The post Technician Education Drives Casey O’Sullivan’s Success appeared first on aftermarketNews.
Niterra Appoints Stapler as GM of Enterprise Applications 15 May 11:22 AM (2 days ago)
Niterra has announced Rod Stapler’s appointment as the general manager of enterprise applications. The company said it made this decision to integrate new technologies and foster innovation. This move aims to enhance Niterra’s ability to adapt swiftly to the fast-changing technological landscape.
“As the technological landscape continues to evolve, we recognize the importance of providing and quickly adopting new technologies to provide our associates and customers with more efficient ways to conduct business,” stated Hemant Damani, director of IT for Niterra North America, Inc. “Rod’s exceptional leadership abilities and commitment to innovation make him the ideal candidate to assist us in this endeavor.”
A Proven Track Record in Leadership
Rod Stapler has spent more than 20 years building a successful career at Niterra. He advanced through various technical and leadership roles in manufacturing, quality, production, engineering and IT. Stapler consistently demonstrated his commitment to innovation and efficiency.
In his new role, Stapler will focus on strengthening partnerships between IT and the business. He aims to balance long-term initiatives with daily operational needs. He also will oversee the new SAP Center of Excellence and lead the IT innovation team to explore emerging technologies.
Driving Innovation and Business Alignment
“I am thrilled to take on this new role at Niterra,” said Stapler. “My extensive background and experience with the company have thoroughly prepared me for this position, and I am eager to address today’s and tomorrow’s business challenges.”
The company said Stapler’s leadership will help Niterra align its enterprise applications strategy with the evolving technological landscape. His focus on innovation aims to enhance both IT and business collaboration, ensuring a forward-thinking approach to enterprise solutions, Niterra added.
The post Niterra Appoints Stapler as GM of Enterprise Applications appeared first on aftermarketNews.
Top 2025 Auto Care Marketing Awards Announced 15 May 5:49 AM (2 days ago)
The Auto Care Association announced the winners of the 2025 Auto Care Marketing and Communications Awards. These awards highlight innovation in automotive repair marketing and communications.
As the premier recognition program in the industry, the awards celebrate outstanding advertising and public relations efforts. These campaigns push the boundaries of what’s possible in the automotive repair sector.
Companies and agencies earned honors for their exceptional work across the automotive aftermarket throughout the past year, the Auto Care Association said.
Celebrating the Best in Automotive Repair B2B Marketing
The business-to-business awards recognized top-tier automotive repair marketing strategies.
The 2025 winners are:
- Best 360 Degree Marketing Campaign: CRC and BOLTGROUP
- Best Ad Campaign: I-CAR
- Best App for a Mobile Device: Sensata Technologies
- Best Campaign Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: I-CAR
- Best Digital Content (Article/Blog/Newsletter/eMagazine): Mevotech
- Best Logo Design: Sensata Technologies
- Best Packaging: Sensata Technologies
- Best Promotional Goods, Gear, Marketing and Collateral: ABA Automotive
- Best Social Media Campaign: LIQUI MOLY USA Inc. and SocialPALS
- Best Trade Show Booth: I-CAR
- Best Training Communications: I-CAR
- Best Use of Online Video: Sensata Technologies
- Best Website Design: NAPA Auto Care
Each campaign enhanced visibility and engagement across the automotive repair industry.
Automotive Repair Consumer Campaigns Drive Engagement
On the consumer side, automotive repair marketing teams produced memorable, creative campaigns that resonated across platforms.
The 2025 business-to-consumer winners are:
- Best 360 Degree Marketing Campaign: Valvoline Global Operations
- Best Campaign Embracing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: I-CAR
- Best Consumer/Community Event: SYLVANIA OFF ROAD and Fitzco
- Best Co-op Advertising: WIX Filters and Gelia
- Best Digital Ad Campaign: Valvoline Global Operations
- Best Direct Mail Piece, Brochure, Booklet, Handout: Gabriel Ride Control
- Best Mass Media: Valvoline Global Operations
- Best Media Outreach to Female Audience: Purolator Filters and Gelia
- Best Media Outreach to Non-English-Speaking Audiences: Gabriel Ride Control
- Best Merchandising: Highline Warren
- Best Repair Facility/Store Customer Promotion: WIX Filters and Gelia
- Best Social Media Campaign: Purolator Filters and Gelia
- Best Use of Influencer Marketing: Purolator Filters and Gelia
- Best Use of Online Video: Robert Bosch and Swagger
- Best Website Design: I-CAR
These winning efforts raised the bar for creativity and results in the automotive repair sector.
Awards Support Industry Growth Through Scholarships
The 2025 Auto Care Marketing and Communications Awards generated over $17,000 in scholarship funding. This success came through award submission fees.
These funds will support education and career development within the automotive repair field.
The Auto Care Marketing and Communications Awards, formerly the “Women in Auto Care Automotive Communications Awards,” continue to evolve.
The post Top 2025 Auto Care Marketing Awards Announced appeared first on aftermarketNews.
Valvoline Instant Oil Change Teams Win Big at Oilympics 15 May 5:20 AM (2 days ago)
Valvoline announced the winners of its 31st annual Oilympics competition, held May 13 in Cincinnati. The event featured top teams from Valvoline Instant Oil Change service centers across North America.
Gold Medal Teams Shine in 2025 Oilympics
First place gold medal winners included teams from both the U.S. and Canada:
U.S. Team – Valvoline Instant Oil Change, Nashville (Real South Market):
- Bradley Tullar, Service Center Manager
- Goddess Lawson
- Salem Baata
- Laith Hejazi, Area Manager
- Matthew Popielarz, Market Manager
Canada Team – Great Canadian Oil Change, Chatham, Ontario (Great Frozen North Market):
- Nathan Marchand, Service Center Manager
- Joshua Wright
- Cody Baillargeon
- Shiraaz Shah, Area Manager
- Rafal Kistelski, Market Manager
Awards and Recognition
In addition to winning gold, teams received trophies and company awards. The competition also recognized silver and bronze medalists, most valuable players and the best overall service experience.
A Test of Speed and Skill
Valvoline said the Oilympics is a nod to the world Olympic games. It included 40 regional Valvoline Inc. service center teams from across the U.S. and Canada. These teams competed to deliver perfect service experiences in the quickest time. To secure a spot at the international Oilympics, teams had to excel in regional competitions. This year’s top 1% of Valvoline service center technicians represented their regions, with only seconds separating gold, silver and bronze medalists.
Decades of Tradition and Growth
The Oilympics began in 1994 and has grown into an international competition. It now includes Valvoline Inc.’s more than 2,000 company-owned and franchised service centers in North America, including Valvoline Instant Oil Change and Valvoline Great Canadian Oil Change retail brands.
The post Valvoline Instant Oil Change Teams Win Big at Oilympics appeared first on aftermarketNews.
NA Williams President and CEO Chris Williams on Being Best in Class 15 May 4:00 AM (2 days ago)
In this episode of DriveTime, Chris Williams shares insights on the value of Automotive Aftermarket Brands and their importance in today’s industry. He is the president and CEO of NA Williams, a 4th-generation, family-owned business.
Williams explains what companies must do to stay relevant, engaging and profitable in the current landscape. Companies must adapt and focus on basic strategies to reach and stay in front of consumers.
“That’s critical,” he said. “But there’s so many more facets that go into that. Do you have the right data? Are you best-in-class in new applications? If you’re a hard part [manufacturer], is your pricing right? Are you helping a customer with category management and lifecycle market intelligence on what’s going on?”
Staying Competitive Through Data and Innovation
Williams believes Automotive Aftermarket Brands have strong opportunities to succeed and stand out in a competitive environment. He emphasized staying best-in-class and aligned with industry trends, customer expectations and product usability.
“If you have your own brand, make sure that you are best in class and keeping up with the industry, keeping up with the customer, and make it easier for the customer, make it easier for the technician or the DIY person to use your product,” he advised.
Talent and Longevity in the Industry
Williams is bullish on our industry. He feels confident in the industry’s long-term future and stresses the need to attract talented professionals.
“This industry is going to be strong for a long time. I hope our company’s strong for a long time. I know the industry will be, as long as we get great people, we’ll be in good shape,” Williams said. “So, I think what it boils down to is just getting talented people to come into our industry, continue to get that, and to get the recognition that our industry deserves.”
To hear more about Williams’ outlook, be sure to watch the video above.
Episode Overview:
• The growth of the company over the years, and some of its new initiatives for 2025 (10:30).
• Value of brands in the aftermarket, and how companies can remain relevant, engaging and profitable in today’s market environment (18:18).
• The biggest challenges the aftermarket is currently facing, and where the biggest opportunities lie (21:10).
• Williams’ outlook for NA Williams and the aftermarket this year (24:55).
• Lightning Round (26:11).
The post NA Williams President and CEO Chris Williams on Being Best in Class appeared first on aftermarketNews.
Automotive OEMs to Require Forced Labor Due Diligence 15 May 4:00 AM (2 days ago)
The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) released Version 2.0 of its Due Diligence Reporting Template (DDRT). This update supports the industry’s Forced Labor Due Diligence Program. It aims to improve reporting efficiency and clarity for all suppliers. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) such as Ford, General Motors, Honda, Nissan, Stellantis and Toyota will begin requesting supplier submissions in September 2025. By mid-2026, OEMs expect this forced labor due diligence reporting to become a broader requirement.
An OEM panel will discuss the reporting process and timeline at the upcoming AIAG Forced Labor Due Diligence Conference.
Updated DDRT Tool Supports Forced Labor Due Diligence
AIAG created the DDRT in partnership with OEMs. The tool supports tiered suppliers in reporting forced labor risks within their supply chains.
The DDRT offers a free, unified approach for reporting. It helps suppliers meet due diligence, social responsibility, and compliance expectations.
Bashar Cholagh, head of global communications purchasing and supply chain at Stellantis, noted:
“With the introduction of the new Due Diligence Reporting Template or DDRT V2, we are giving the automotive industry an aligned approach and affordable access to industry-wide tools to support due diligence with sub-tiers.”
The template benefits suppliers of any size by providing standardized documentation methods.
Forced Labor Due Diligence Reporting Addresses Rising Regulatory Risk
Governments are increasing enforcement on forced labor regulations. The U.S., EU, Canada, and the U.K. have passed new laws.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection reports that 75% of detained automotive and aerospace shipments have been denied. Only 4% have been released.
The updated DDRT V2 helps the automotive industry align with these regulatory expectations. It promotes transparency and supports the elimination of forced labor.
Tanya Bolden, vice president of supply chain products & services at AIAG, emphasized the DDRT’s role in protecting human rights and meeting legal requirements.
Key Components of DDRT V2 Support Forced Labor Due Diligence
The DDRT V2 provides several benefits to suppliers. It improves compliance and communication while strengthening transparency.
Industry Alignment: Suppliers follow standard annual reporting dates and collaborate across tiers.
Enhanced Compliance: The tool streamlines documentation to meet regulatory requirements.
Risk Mitigation: Suppliers identify and address forced labor risks early in the supply chain.
Transparency and Accountability: The DDRT encourages suppliers to prove their ethical standards.
Reporting Automation: It simplifies reporting for easier customer submission and review.
Each component supports the growing need for forced labor due diligence in global automotive supply chains.
AIAG Offers Tools Beyond the Forced Labor Due Diligence Template
In addition to the DDRT, AIAG provides support through training and industry guidance. Their Forced Labor Due Diligence Program includes resources and connections to service providers.
These tools are available at AIAG.org and help companies build stronger compliance programs.
The organization continues to play a key role in uniting the industry around forced labor due diligence and responsible sourcing.
The post Automotive OEMs to Require Forced Labor Due Diligence appeared first on aftermarketNews.
Genna Honored in Automotive Aftermarket Hall of Fame 15 May 4:00 AM (2 days ago)
Tony Genna, of DRiV, earned induction into the Federated Auto Parts Vendor Hall of Fame. Organizers recognized Genna at the recent Automotive Parts Services Group (The Group) National Meeting in National Harbor, Maryland. His longstanding contributions to the automotive aftermarket industry set him apart as a leader and dedicated professional.
Federated Celebrates Genna’s Commitment to Excellence
“The past Hall of Fame recipients are among our closest suppliers who made a significant impact. We would fail without our vendors, and we are honored to recognize someone that we admire from one of our favorite suppliers,” said Bo Fisher, chairman of Federated Auto Parts.
“Tony is a knowledgeable professional who is committed to the success of the Federated membership. When he is not spending time with his wife Kristen and daughter Sammi, he works unselfishly as Fire Chief in Sellersville, Pennsylvania, and he also worked at ground zero after 9/11.”
Genna’s Career Spans Automotive Aftermarket Leadership
As vice president, North America sales-aftermarket for DRiV Incorporated, Genna continues to impact the automotive aftermarket. He also held executive roles at PHINIA, BorgWarner, Delphi, and Gates. Genna volunteers time serving on committees for various aftermarket organizations.
Federated Hall of Fame Honors Industry Leadership
Each year, the Federated Vendor Hall of Fame honors one person who shows exceptional dedication. The award recognizes individuals making a difference for Federated Auto Parts and its members.
Visit the Federated Hall of Fame to view past inductees.
The post Genna Honored in Automotive Aftermarket Hall of Fame appeared first on aftermarketNews.
NexaMotion Group on Innovation and Reshaping Automotive Repair 14 May 11:35 AM (3 days ago)
Automotive repair is becoming increasingly complex. Cars are now computers on wheels, requiring advanced diagnostics, reflash procedures and software updates just as often as they need mechanical repairs. NexaMotion Group’s (NMG) response to these challenges is to place innovation at the core of its operations, focusing on technology that meets real-world demands.
In today’s fast-evolving automotive aftermarket, staying ahead requires a combination of technological innovation and strategic diversification. NMG, an emerging powerhouse formed by Transtar Holding Company in 2023, exemplifies how blending these approaches can lead to rapid growth and industry leadership.
It’s almost cliche to call a car a “computer on wheels,” but it’s also extremely accurate. Today’s cars can have up to 20 electronic control units (ECUs) built into them, and even up to 50 or 60 ECUs in high-end cars. That means electronic repairs are needed just as often as mechanical repairs.
For the aftermarket, it means becoming as software savvy as we are mechanically savvy.
Neil Sethi, CEO of NexaMotion Group, pointed to NMG’s RAP Kit—Rapid Remote Assisted Programming, as a key example. The RAP Kit includes an Android tablet that connects to a vehicle’s OBDII port, allowing technicians to access remote support for reflash and relearn processes. This technology addresses the growing need for efficient post-repair programming, particularly for critical systems like the Transmission Control Module (TCM). The tool not only saves time but also ensures accuracy, directly addressing pain points in modern vehicle maintenance, according to Sethi.
Building a Technological Ecosystem
NexaMotion Group’s commitment to leveraging technology extends beyond individual products. The company’s proprietary e-commerce platform, Transend, is another testament to its forward-thinking strategy. Transend offers streamlined parts ordering and catalog management, with over 700,000 SKUs currently available. Sethi notes that “we think we’re going to hit the million mark probably in the next year or two,” highlighting the platform’s rapid growth.
“The way that we think about technology is we don’t pursue technology just for the sake of pursuing it,” Sethi said. “Our goal is to start with the questions: What are the problems and what are the challenges of the industry? Can technology be an enabler to help solve those issues?”
Strategic Diversification Drives Growth
Formed to build on Transtar’s legacy in the transmission and driveline space, NexaMotion Group was designed to signal a new direction; one that broadens the company’s scope across the entire light-duty repair segment. This approach preserves brand equity while integrating diverse automotive solutions under one umbrella.
In 2024, the company acquired three businesses—PPI, 4M and City Auto Supply—expanding its presence to 125 locations. With a clear focus on light-duty repair and innovative solutions, NexaMotion is poised to remain competitive even as vehicle technology continues to advance.
A Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Looking ahead, NexaMotion Group is not slowing down. The company plans to expand its product lines and introduce even more proprietary solutions.
“If you’re not embracing technology, and frankly, if you’re not leading with it, I think you could be left behind,” Sethi remarked. NexaMotion aims to position itself as both a technology leader and a collaborative partner within the automotive aftermarket.
Sethi said that NMG’s commitment to solving industry challenges with technological innovation will aim to set a new standard. With a strong foundation in both legacy expertise and modern advancements, he added the company is well-equipped to drive the aftermarket industry forward.
The post NexaMotion Group on Innovation and Reshaping Automotive Repair appeared first on aftermarketNews.
Takeaways from The Group National Conference 14 May 11:18 AM (3 days ago)
The Group National Conference brought together leaders from the Pronto Network, Federated and The Alliance. The event addressed pressing challenges and highlight strengths within the independent aftermarket.
A major theme was uncertainty surrounding tariffs. Robert Roos, president and CEO of The Pronto Network, emphasized the volatility. “It’s such a moving target… you wake up the next day and things could have changed dramatically,” he said. Despite the unpredictability, Roos stressed the importance of education and collaboration with suppliers to bring “some sense of reality and calmness” to members navigating the chaos.
Sue Godschalk, president and CEO of Federated, underscored the organization’s commitment to advocacy and preparedness. “We want people to know that we know what’s going on… and we’re here for you,” she said. Godschalk also pointed to rising used car sales as a positive signal for the industry, reinforcing a bright outlook for repair business growth.
JC Washbish, president and CEO of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, spoke to the strength and agility of the independent aftermarket. “We are so nimble and agile… and that’s why we’re here this week,” he noted. Washbish highlighted the sector’s ability to quickly respond to external forces and the value of deep collaboration with channel partners, stating, “Whatever’s happening… we need to respond in kind.”
All three leaders championed unity. Roos highlighted joint ventures like APSG, Federated and The Alliance as essential for buying and selling together. Washbish reinforced that point: “Let’s work together and continue to execute.” Events like the APSG conference, they agreed, are vital platforms for sharing ideas, planning strategically and strengthening the aftermarket community.
The post Takeaways from The Group National Conference appeared first on aftermarketNews.