Good News in Auto Repair - Lee Locklear Donates $20,000.00 Worth Of Tools To School (00:21:36)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!In this episode, Braxton is joined by Lee Locklear of Cutting Edge Solutions and Missy Stephens of the Auto Care Association. Missy recounts how a high school vocational instructor in Pontiac, Michigan, shared a need he had to better equip his growing class, especially with more female students enrolling. Lee responded with a substantial donation of tools and equipment, valued at around $20,000, helping to ensure students have what they need to succeed. Now, that's some GOOD NEWS!00:00 Program Faces High Demand, Needs Tools05:30 Grateful Colt Receives Surprise Aid09:14 "Incredible Generosity Impacting Education"13:23 "Community Impact Through Vocational Support"16:37 Time: The Most Valuable Gift20:25 "Join the Generosity Movement"
How Battery Technology Is Evolving for Modern Cars with Alan Kohler (00:21:12)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!In this episode, Braxton Critcher sits down with Alan Kohler from Odyssey Battery. Alan breaks down the differences between traditional flooded lead-acid batteries, AGM, and Odyssey’s advanced Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) technology. The conversation explores why today’s vehicles—with their increased electronics and start-stop systems—require more from their batteries, and how Odyssey batteries are designed to deliver longer life and improved performance. Plus, Alan introduces Odyssey Connect, an innovative app-based system that lets users monitor battery health in real time.Learn more about ODYSSEY Battery HERE00:00 Automotive Repair News Today Keeps You Informed04:35 AGM2: Advanced Car Battery Tech07:38 Enhanced Batteries for Start-Stop Cars12:28 Repair Shops vs. DIY Enthusiasts15:27 Optimizing Truck Battery Management17:35 Quality Over Cost for Car Essentials
SEMA President Mike Spagnola on EV Mandates, Right to Repair, and California’s Automotive Laws (00:40:44)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!In this episode, Braxton Critcher is joined by Mike Spagnola, President and CEO of SEMA. Mike offers an insider’s update on three major issues currently shaping the automotive industry. First, he shares the details behind SEMA’s victory in overturning California’s EV sales mandate, arguing for consumer choice and innovation in vehicle technology. Second, Mike breaks down the latest progress of "Leno’s Law," aimed at easing smog checks for California’s classic car owners. Finally, the discussion turns to the Right to Repair Act, with Mike emphasizing the importance of consumer access to vehicle data and repair options, and predicting what’s next for this critical legislation.Register for SEMA 2025 HERE00:00 Advocates for Consumer Vehicle Choice04:22 Rushed Implementation Concerns08:21 "Free Market Reshapes Automotive Industry"12:42 Smog Testing Challenges for Vintage Cars16:21 Right to Repair Act Update17:27 "Right to Repair and Modify"22:23 Advocacy for Upcoming Legislation Crescendo26:09 "Ensuring Vehicle Modifications and Safety"29:55 Fiat's Global Mobility and Tourism Division31:20 Global Automotive Tech Innovations35:25 Local Enthusiasts Influence Auto Show37:43 Convenient Hotel Stay Despite Congestion40:32 Pressure vs. Pleasure Conversation
TOPDON'S Industry-Wide Growth, and Chad Schnitz's Perspective on The Future of the Industry (00:22:34)
In this episode, Braxton Critcher is joined by Chad Schnitz, Vice President of TOPDON, and newly appointed board member of the Auto Care Association’s Tool and Equipment board. Chad shares his perspective on the importance of the Right to Repair and the ongoing need for equal access to information for all automotive professionals. He also discusses efforts to bring more young people and women into the industry, as well as TOPDON's mission to offer innovative, affordable diagnostic tools for technicians at every level.00:00 "Tight-Knit Industry Connections"03:15 Chad's Board Appointment News07:44 Right to Repair Challenges12:35 Supporting Women in Auto Care16:18 Improving Technician Profession Perception17:15 Oil Change Frequency Debate21:37 "Join the Automotive Repair Conversation"
Jimmy Lea is Now a Certified Speaking Professional. How Does One Become a CSP? (00:31:33)
In this episode, Braxton Critcher welcomes Jimmy Lea from the Institute for Automotive Business Excellence. Why? Because Jimmy actually did something newsworthy! Bout time! Jimmy is now, to our knowledge, the ONLY presenter in the automotive aftermarket certified as a Certified Speaking Professional. It was quite the journey to get here, though! Hear Jimmy walk us through the process and tell us why this is important for other speakers to try and get as well.00:00 Jimmy's choice in suit coats05:46 "Reapplying for CSP Certification"08:11 Failed Speaker Review Video11:08 Videographer Hire: Costs & Requirements16:06 Speaker Recognition and Status20:11 Becoming a Professional Speaker21:01 Joining Speaking Associations Explained25:58 Collaborative Industry Improvement Insights28:35 "Shopmonkey Expert Series in Chicago"
Good News in Auto Repair | Radical Generosity and Faith TRANSFORMED This Repair Shop (00:33:55)
In this episode, Braxton welcomes Ed and Brandi Caswell to talk about why and how they run their repair shop differently. Faith and generosity is some pretty crazy ways have become the foundation of their business culture, including their response to local disasters and support for employees’ personal growth. They even host a weekly men’s group at their shop and are launching scholarship programs, showing how small acts of service can transform both an auto repair business AND its surrounding community. 00:00 Positive Industry Podcast Initiative05:09 Prayer and Opportunity in Adversity08:40 "Journey from Teaching to Faith"12:38 Faith and Support Acknowledged13:55 Faith-Driven Business Transformation18:24 "Brandy's Empathy in Crisis"20:22 Empowering Growth Beyond Business25:09 God's Impact in Business27:21 "Industry Transformation: Faith-Driven Approach"31:42 Divine Opportunities and Platforms
Hundreds of 311 Complaints, Major Tax Breaks, and Christian Brothers Tops Satisfaction Rankings (00:07:10)
In this episode, Braxton Critcher shares the latest news from the automotive repair industry. He discusses a new tax bill passed by the House Ways and Means Committee that offers significant benefits to repair shops and small businesses, including a permanent 23% income deduction and relief on equipment investments. Braxton also highlights the unusual situation of one Brooklyn repair shop, which received hundreds of 311 complaints from a single individual over minor sidewalk infractions, prompting community support for the business. Finally, he spotlights Christian Brothers Automotive for being ranked number one in customer satisfaction by the J.D. Power Aftermarket Success Index for the sixth consecutive year.
Is Automotive Training Worth It? Tom Schearer Says Without Question! (00:22:00)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!In this episode, Braxton Critcher is joined by Tom Schearer to discuss the value and impact of attending automotive training events, with a special focus on the upcoming TOOLS Conference in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Tom addresses common concerns about the cost of training and emphasizes the strong return on investment for shop owners and technicians who attend. The conversation also highlights how ongoing education not only keeps teams up to date with rapidly changing technology but also strengthens shop culture and networking within the industry.Sign up for TOOLS HERE00:00 Role Play: Addressing Training Hesitations05:45 Comprehensive Training Conference Overview07:42 Training Benefits Outweigh Costs13:27 Team Training and Staff Changes16:37 Collision Classes & Networking Highlights20:08 "Importance of Networking Events"21:24 "Automotive Repair Podcast Promo"
California Clean Air Act Overturned, Ford Recall, and Good News Today! (00:12:39)
In this episode, Braxton Critcher covers several major developments in the automotive industry. He updates listeners on the movement to overturn California’s Clean Air Act, highlighting bipartisan support and implications for gas-powered vehicles. Braxton also discusses the recent recall of nearly 300,000 Ford vehicles due to faulty backup cameras, emphasizing which models are affected and how customers can get repairs. Finally, he shares a positive story from Connecticut, where funds raised through a local car show are helping cover auto repairs for residents in need. 00:00 SEMA Push Against 2035 Gas Ban04:19 Auto Industry's Tariff Concerns08:53 "Car Enthusiast Hosts Charity Show"10:18 Connecticut Repair Initiative Story Preview
Why the NEVI Program Ended and What’s Next for EV Charging with Ryan McKinnon (00:27:35)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!In this episode, Braxton is joined by Ryan McKinnon from the Charge Ahead Partnership to break down the recent end of the NEVI program under the Trump administration. Ryan highlights why the program, despite being well designed to leverage existing businesses for EV charging infrastructure, ultimately stumbled due to poor implementation by many states. The conversation also explores Florida’s unique approach to EV charging and the push for free market solutions over utility-run charging stations, emphasizing the importance of policies that encourage private investment in the evolving EV marketplace. 00:00 "Criticism of Ineffective EV Initiative"05:06 Transportation Grants Continue Amid Program Halt10:14 EV Charging Competition in Florida12:42 State Attitudes on Federal EV Funding15:47 Utility Control Over EV Charging20:49 Ineffective Public Charger Deployment23:43 EV Charging Policy Advocacy Platform27:00 "Engage with Automotive Repair News"
TOOLS Pennsylvania - Should You Go? | Bret Fadely (00:32:05)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!In this episode, Braxton Critcher sits down with Bret Fadley to dive into the growth and unique culture of the TOOLS training event in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Bret shares how TOOLS has evolved from a struggling show to a regional cornerstone, emphasizing its focus on networking, training, and creating a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of other major industry events like ASTA. They also discuss the fun community traditions—like the “jacket exchange”—and the family-friendly experience attendees can expect at this year’s TOOLS, making it a must-attend for shop owners, technicians, and their teams in the Northeast.00:00 Annoying Flashing Table Lights04:47 Rebranding Revived Struggling Show09:35 Event Schedule: Training & Trade Show12:50 Networking: Key to Training Events13:49 "Step Outside Your Comfort Zone"19:57 Weekend Event Schedule Highlights23:47 "Excited for New Location Expansion"25:29 Delayed Registration for Event27:39 "Event Planning Date Dilemma"31:43 "Engage & Improve Industry Together"
Right To Repair Update, SEMA/AAPEX Registration Opens and More! (00:12:59)
In this episode, Braxton starts with a confession. Evidently, keeping good care of tires is not his strong suit. He then talks about legislative updates on the REPAIR Act (HR 1566) and the latest advocacy efforts in California, along with details on SEMA and AAPEX registration for this year’s Las Vegas events. Plus, Braxton highlights California's new Cool Air Rebate Program for vehicle A/C repair and introduces an AI-driven sales coaching platform for repair shops.00:00 Automotive Repair News Podcast03:23 Tire Maintenance and Podcast Evolution08:48 Cool Air Rebate Launching May10:27 "AIX for Auto Repair Shops"
Meet Lauren Langston | Tekmetric's New COO (00:33:18)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!In this episode, you'll get to meet Tekmetric's new COO! Lauren Langston shares her journey from a software-focused background to joining the automotive industry, emphasizing her desire to deliver better technology tailored to the auto repair industry. Braxton and Lauren also get into the trust gap between consumers and auto repair shops, highlighting how transparency and the right technology can help bridge that divide. 00:00 Vertical SaaS in Professional Services04:02 Consumer Distrust in Auto Repair09:13 Enhancing Customer Trust Through Tech12:06 Tekmetric's Brand and Founder Impact14:59 Managing Tech Change in Business20:19 "Founders Drive Continuous Innovation"21:10 Tekmetric's Next-Level Customer Focus24:25 "Aligning Customer Needs with Offerings"27:47 Auto Industry's Vast Opportunities31:46 Building Tech with Industry Experts
SEMA Fights Tariffs, Missouri To Cut State Inspections? The Latest News! (00:09:52)
In this episode, Braxton Critcher covers some of the most pressing developments in the automotive repair industry. He highlights SEMA’s recent appeal to President Trump for a transition period before new tariffs impact US automotive parts manufacturers. Braxton also discusses controversial bills in Missouri that could exempt many newer vehicles from safety inspections. Finally, he covers Hyundai’s adjustments to their Assurance Program in response to looming auto tariffs. All that an more on today's episode!00:00 Manufacturers Seek Tariff Transition Period03:51 Missouri Vehicle Inspection Debate08:15 SEMA Registration Opens Next Week
Tariffs, Tire Scams, and the Repair Act! Trial Format As Well! (00:20:37)
In this episode, we cover all the things YOU NEED TO KNOW about the automotive repair industry. From the rise in tire scams affecting New Hampshire auto shops, to the progress of the Repair Act in Congress. Braxton Critcher also talks about the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation and all the good things and changes they are working on! What do you think about today's format? Love, hate, ehhh it was okay? Let me know! Email me at braxton@automotiverepairnews.com
Hockey Legend Wayne Gretzky Headlines AAPEX 2025 (00:06:35)
In this episode of Auto Repair News Today, Braxton talks about the announcement of Wayne Gretzky as the keynote speaker for Apex 2025! He brings up current challenges in the automotive repair industry, such as evolving technologies and a technician shortage, and that Gretzky will have powerful insight into this because of the things he overcame in his career. Additionally, the episode provides details about the growing prominence of the AAPEX conference, set to take place in Las Vegas, and the opening of its registration soon.
SEMA Registration Opens Soon, California Has More EV Chargers Than Gas Nozzles Now and MORE! (00:08:15)
In today's episode, you'll learn about the following stories...Attendee registration for the 2025 SEMA show opens online on April 28th, offering early registration discounts before June 27th.The market share of replacement parts in the light vehicle aftermarket has declined, while accessories, tools, and equipment have experienced significant growth.California surpasses 178,000 public and shared private EV chargers statewide, marking a milestone in EV infrastructure.The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey celebrates young technicians with awards to support their career growth.Bosch is expanding its Auto Service franchise into several U.S. states, aiming for future growth in the automotive sector.Todd Hack has retired as Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Mavotech LP, concluding a notable career.SEMA and PRI are collecting industry feedback on the impact of new tariffs, which affect various automotive parts and materials.Entries are now open for the 2025 Motor Top 20 Awards to recognize innovation in the automotive industry.
Mitchell 1 and 360 Payments Partnership, Right to Repair Happening Soon? And More News! (00:08:03)
In this week's episode of Automotive Repair News Today, Braxton Critcher covers the top news shaping the automotive repair industry. Mitchell 1 partners with 360 Payments to streamline payment processing and enhance customer experience.The Tire Industry Association opens nominations for the Tire Industry Hall of Fame, honoring significant contributions to the tire industry.NAPA Auto Care launches a Team Tool Rebate to support technicians in acquiring essential tools.Representative Neil Dunn pushes for the Bipartisan Repair Act in Congress to protect consumer choice and fair access to repair data.Ohio's top collision repair students are recognized at the Skills Ohio competition, with winners advancing to the national stage.Pittsburgh State University's $20 million expansion plan aims to enhance its automotive program.Standard Motor Products expands its gasoline fuel injector program, positioning itself against low-cost competitors.The projected rise in electric vehicle adoption highlights the opportunity for repair shops to invest in EV expertise and equipment.California's Senate Bill 712 seeks to exempt classic cars from smog checks, supporting the state's car culture.A new automotive technician training program launches in Buffalo, New York, to address the local technician shortage.
Largest Deregulatory Action in U.S. History Could Help Auto Industry, and More News (00:09:00)
Do you use a DVI at your shop? Is it certified? If not, get a free DVI certification today and take your shop to the next level! CLICK HERE!In today's episode, we give you what you need to know happening right now in the repair industry! Here are some of the stories you'll hear about:EPA Deregulatory Action: The Environmental Protection Agency announced major rollbacks on regulations affecting power plants, vehicle emissions, and manufacturing standards, aiming to reduce costs and boost the auto industry.Chad Schnitz's Council Role: Chad Schnitz, Vice President of Topdon, expresses his enthusiasm for addressing challenges like right to repair through his new position on the Tool and Equipment Council with the Auto Care Association.Radical Generosity Award: Ed and Brandy Caswell received the Radical Generosity Award at Vision 2025 for their community support efforts during crises, such as their response to a winter ice storm.Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation Appointment: Deborah Hamlin joins the Board of Trustees, bringing extensive experience from her leadership roles in the tire and automotive industry.Fullbay Industry Report: Findings indicate trends such as the rise in mobile repair services, strategic labor rate adjustments, and online advertising to attract customers.Aztech and LaunchTech Integration: New collaboration enables shops to instantly use diagnostic tools without downloads, offering an affordable alternative to dealerships.Impact of Steel and Aluminum Tariffs: MEMA highlights the potential cost pressures on suppliers due to new tariffs, warning of possible strains on global supply chains.Insurance Policyholder Protections: The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota seeks to strengthen regulations and protections for repair shops and insurance policyholders with legislative efforts.Stellantis Design Contest: High school students are invited to enter a contest to design a future Chrysler vehicle, with opportunities for scholarships and internships for winners.
DVI Done Right and the CRAZY Facebook Group Post That Happened in February | Uwe Kleinschmidt (00:22:04)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!Uwe Kleinschmidt is the CEO of Autotech IQ and DVIDoneRight.com. Among other things. Today, he and Braxton address the viral Facebook Post in early February. It was posted by David Roman in the Changing the Industry Podcast group, and things went sour fast. But, through conflict like that, if handled properly, positives can result. Today, they talk about them. And the overall skepticism around the high average estimates achieved using the DVI process that Uwe encourages. 00:00 "DVIDoneright.com Impact Discussed Online"05:50 "Revolutionizing Car Inspection Process"09:46 Service Improvement Through Accountability12:09 Quick Wins for Training Motivation15:00 Unique Decline Rate Insights Analysis20:32 "Skepticism and New Shop Tools"21:29 "Support and Connect with Us"
Ryan Ragan | Changes at ASTA? (00:21:42)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!Ryan Ragan is the Executive Director of the Automotive Service and Tire Alliance. Today, he tells us about the move of the ASTA Expo to the Raleigh Convention Center. Will the growth in square feel curt the small-town feel of the event and the culture that people love? Listen and hear what he says. Register for the ASTA Expo September 25-27 HERE00:00 Upcoming Expo & Website Revamp05:18 Supportive Community of Shop Owners06:38 Streamlined Registration and Expo Access11:30 Support Proper Vehicle Inspections13:39 Convention Hall Planning Insights17:36 Walkable Downtown Entertainment Hub
Tariffs On Pause, Repair Act Update, Ford Recall and More! (00:08:05)
Do you use a DVI at your shop? Is it certified? If not, get a free DVI certification today and take your shop to the next level! CLICK HERE!Today on the pod, you'll get all you need to know about what's going on in the industry! The Trump administration announced a pause on the 25% tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, now allowing further trade policy discussions that affect Canada and Mexico.The introduction of the Tech Training HU Hub aims to streamline access to automotive tech training, offering technicians and owners the ability to search for various certifications without requiring membership.Ford has issued recalls for certain Maverick trucks from 2022 and 2023 due to instrument cluster and ABS system issues, with dealerships tasked with implementing necessary repairs.
Vision 2025 | My Thoughts (00:15:14)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!Today, Braxton Critcher shares his thoughts about this year's Vision Hi-Tech Expo and Training in Kansas City. S/O Chad Schnitz of TopDon for the help on the show floor. Additionally, he discusses the industry's underutilization of current technology, as learned in his conversation with Chris Cotton. Lastly, Braxton shares that a discussion with Lisa Foshee changed his mind on when he thought the Repair Act bill would be passed. 00:00 Networking and Friendships in Industry03:50 "Grateful for Chad's Support"08:28 Bipartisan Repair Act Prospects Discussed10:09 "Discussing Negative Feedback Positively"13:38 Podcast Growth and Upcoming Events
Will the Repair Act Get Passed? | Lisa Foshee, Auto Care Association (00:17:55)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!Lisa Foshee is the Senior Vice President, Government Affairs and General Counsel for the Auto Care Association. Today, she gives an update about the just re-introduced repair act bill in Congress. Will it get passed this time? Where is it on the Trump Administration's priority list? And why do automakers care so much about withholding information? Braxton and Lisa get into all this. 00:00 "Renewed Legislative Efforts Underway"05:44 "Industry Efforts Enable Lobbying Pause"08:00 Legal Victory, Appeal, and Federal Push12:23 Trump's US-Focused Tariff Strategy14:46 Tariff Uncertainty Strains Businesses17:20 "Subscribe and Connect for Updates"
BREAKING NEWS: The Tech Training Hub is Ready! | Megan Gardner From MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers (00:10:22)
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!Check out the Tech Training Hub HEREToday, Megan explains how the Tech Training Hub works. It consolidates high-quality supplier training for technicians in one location and simplifies the search for specialized training across multiple suppliers. It's a great resource that's been needed for a while for the industry! 00:00 Centralized Automotive Tech Training Hub05:47 ADAS Training Initiative Launch09:04 Advancing Technician Training Tech10:17 "Improving the Industry Together"
