Autobody News

Precision and Perfection in Automotive Refinishing In the latest episode of The Collision Vision, we’re diving into the art and science of precision color matching for high-end vehicles with Bruce Sorensen Jr. As a master paint technician with expertise in OEM-certified refinishing, Bruce shares insights into: ✨ The unique challenges of luxury vehicle refinishing ✨ Advanced tools and technologies shaping the industry ✨ Certifications that set professionals apart This episode is part of our Beyond the Surface: Innovations in Automotive Refinishing series—don't miss it if you're passionate about pushing the boundaries of perfection in collision repair. Tune in now! #CollisionRepair #AutomotiveRefinishing #LuxuryVehicles #ColorMatching #TheCollisionVision #AutobodyNews

2024 Seeing Record-Breaking Auto Dealership Buy/Sell Activity The U.S. auto dealership buy/sell market hit new heights in 2024, with 330 transactions covering 544 franchises in just the first nine months. Sellers are capitalizing on historically high valuations, and larger dealership groups are driving consolidation to increase their market share. Luxury franchises like Lexus and Jaguar Land Rover are commanding top blue sky multiples, while underperforming brands are being divested at growing rates. What’s driving this record-breaking activity? Click to read more. #AutoDealerships #DealershipSales #AutomotiveIndustry #CarDealership #LuxuryCars #MarketTrends #CarSales #AutomotiveNews #FranchiseOpportunities #BusinessGrowth

$171M Granted to Upgrade Crash Data Systems Nationwide Nineteen states and territories have been selected to upgrade their crash data systems, enabling faster and more accurate sharing of roadway fatality data with the NHTSA. This initiative, backed by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to improve data timeliness and accessibility, helping to identify emerging trends and advance roadway safety efforts. The selected entities have five years to fully implement these upgrades, which are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Roadway Safety Strategy. Which states are included, and how will this impact safety measures? Click to read more. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA #RoadSafety #TrafficSafety #NHTSA #RoadwaySafety

The Automotive Service Association® (#ASA) is doubling down on critical industry issues like technician training and right to repair amid a shifting political landscape. As vehicles grow more complex, ASA is working to ensure lawmakers understand the need for a well-trained workforce and accessible vehicle data. With changes on the horizon in Congress and federal policies, ASA’s targeted advocacy will be more important than ever. Stay informed about the policies shaping the future of collision repair. #AutomotiveService #TechnicianTraining #RightToRepair #CollisionRepair #AutomotiveIndustry #AutomotiveAdvocacy #VehicleData #WorkforceDevelopment #CarRepair

FCA Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has issued a recall for over 317,000 Ram trucks from model years 2017-2018 due to issues with hydraulic control units (HCU) affecting anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control. Affected models include the Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500. Discover the details of the recall and what FCA is doing to address these safety concerns. #FiatChrysler #RamTrucks #VehicleRecall #AutomotiveNews #AutoIndustry #AutobodyNews #VehicleSafety

Quality Collision Group has expanded its presence in Utah with the acquisition of Auto Crafters Auto Body & Paint. This move brings QCG’s total number of Utah locations to 14, including three new sites opening soon. Founded by the Thiros family, Auto Crafters has built a strong reputation for quality repairs and customer service, making it a perfect fit for QCG’s growing network of OEM-certified locations. Explore how this acquisition strengthens QCG’s foothold in the region. #QualityCollisionGroup #AutoBody #CollisionRepair #AutoRepair #AutoIndustry #AutobodyNews

Florida Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky has ramped up enforcement efforts, resulting in a dramatic increase in penalties for claims handling misconduct. Insurers faced $2.8 million in fines in the first three quarters of 2024—seven times the total from the previous year. Additionally, $8 million in restitution has been issued to policyholders, many impacted by hurricane-related claims. Read the full story to learn more about the changes shaping Florida’s insurance landscape. #FloridaInsurance #InsuranceRegulation #ClaimsHandling #HurricaneClaims #InsuranceNews #FloridaLaw

David Co, owner of MAACO Hayward, CA, has been awarded the 2024 Terry Taylor Award for his remarkable contributions to the community. For over 17 years, Co’s work has extended beyond auto repair to addressing homelessness, hunger, and at-risk youth in California's East Bay area. His leadership and generosity have inspired initiatives like youth theater programs and homeless shelters, setting a powerful example for others to follow. Read more about David Co’s impact and how he’s making a difference. Mercy Cares For Kids Inc CITY SERVE OF THE TRI-VALLEY #TerryTaylorAward #CommunityLeader #MAACOHayward #Philanthropy #EastBayImpact #AutoRepair #SocialImpact #InspiringLeadership #CommunityService #YouthPrograms

Artificial intelligence is making its mark in the collision repair industry, automating tasks like damage assessment, repair estimation, and parts ordering. Yet, experts at the 2024 SEMA Show emphasized that human intelligence remains indispensable. Emotional understanding, ethical decision-making, and problem-solving are vital components that AI cannot replicate. Together, AI and human expertise are paving the way for a more efficient, customer-focused industry. Explore how this hybrid approach is shaping the future of collision repair. Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) #CollisionRepair #SEMAShow2024 #ArtificialIntelligence #AutoRepair #TechInAutomotive #FutureOfRepair #AutomotiveIndustry #InnovationInRepair #HumanVsMachine

For collision repair educators like Raven Luna of Collin College and Jordan Short of Meridian Technology Center, AAPEX isn’t just an event—it’s a way to bring cutting-edge technology and industry insights back to their students. From EV/hybrid safety tools to leadership strategies, these educators are shaping the future of collision repair, ensuring the next generation of technicians is equipped for success. Learn how AAPEX is driving innovation in collision repair education. AAPEX Expo 2024 #CollisionRepair #AutoEducation #AAPEX2024 #FutureTechnicians #EVSafety #HybridTechnology #AutomotiveInnovation #TechEducators #AutomotiveTraining