Houston Body Shop Owner Makes History with Milestone Growth

PublishedAug. 22, 2023

Fix Auto USA announced the milestone opening of Fix Auto Houston, located at 9350 Cypress Creek Parkway, Houston, TX 77070.

This location makes Fix Auto USA history as the first Fix Auto USA location in the state of Texas and the 15th state the growing collision brand has expanded to. 

Fix Auto Houston is owned by Kevin Taylor, a second-generation collision shop owner, who joins the Fix Auto USA family with 18 years of experience as an owner-operator and a deep understanding of what it means to achieve success in this field. He has a rich background in the industry and a proven track

Classic Collision Adds New Location in Washington 

PublishedAug. 18, 2023

Classic Collision, LLC, announced a new closing Aug. 18---the acquisition of Lakeside Collision Kirkland in Kirkland, WA. 

For more than 60 years, Lakeside Collision Kirkland has been a valuable pillar in the community.

“Our motto has been to take the pain out of an already painful situation, and we believe that Classic Collision will uphold that motto,” said Tim Pugmire, former owner of Lakeside Collision Kirkland.

“We are excited to welcome the Lakeside Collision Kirkland team to our ever-growing Classic family! We are thrilled for the addition of our fourth location in the

400 Charges Filed Against NC Nissan Dealership Employees for Selling Damaged Cars

Written by Sebastien Bell, CarScoops
Published Aug. 18, 2023

A dozen employees at a Nissandealership in Shelby, NC, are collectively facing more than 400 charges following a state department of transportation investigation into their used vehicle sales practices.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation is charging the employees with failure to inspect vehicles prior to being offered for sale, failure to deliver title, failure to disclose damage, improper use of temporary markers, making false statements about date of sale, and more.

The investigation was launched after the agency started looking

Fisker Opening Flagship Lounge in Los Angeles

PublishedAug. 18, 2023

Fisker Inc. will open its U.S. flagship Lounge at The Grove in Los Angeles, CA, on Aug. 19.

The Fisker Lounge at The Grove, one of the most popular outdoor shopping and entertainment districts in Southern California, will welcome prospective customers to experience and test drive the all-electric Fisker Ocean. Test drives of Fisker’s first vehicle, now being delivered in the U.S. and Europe, may be scheduled in-store and online.

“I’m super excited for customers to not only experience the Fisker Ocean, but also the vision I had in designing a timeless space for our flagship Lounge in Los Angeles,” said Chairman and CEO

Cruise Robotaxi Finds Itself Stuck in Wet Concrete in San Francisco

Written by Simon Alvarez, Teslarati
PublishedAug. 17, 2023

A Cruiserobotaxi recently found itself in a sticky situation, as photos shared on social media showed the vehicle stuck in wet concrete. The incident incited several reactions online, with some arguing the autonomous cars are not yet ready for a full, unrestrained rollout. 

The Cruise robotaxi, which seemed to be named “Oasis,” drove into wet cement at a construction site on Golden Gate Avenue between Fillmore and Steiner streets in San Francisco. After a small distance, the car’s two front wheels sank into the freshly poured concrete, rendering the vehicle

MN Auto Body Shop Flooded with Repair Jobs After Storm Drops Hail

Written by Emily Haugen, CCX Media
Published Aug. 17, 2023

Summer storms, which came with hail Aug. 11, brought a high price for some drivers. The thunderstorm brought much-needed moisture, as well as large hail to the Twin Cities in Minnesota.

Weather watcher Steve Reckers measured 1.94 inches of rainfall at his home in New

CIF Responds to Lahaina, Maui Fires 

Published Aug. 17, 2023

The Collision Industry Foundation (CIF) announced Aug. 17 that disaster relief assistance is available in the aftermath of the devastating Lahaina fires, which left a trail of destruction. Not only properties were affected, but also the lives of many families. CIF provides emergency relief to collision repair professionals.

"Our hearts go out to all those impacted," said Michael Quinnof AirPro Diagnostics, CIF immediate past president and chair of this relief effort. "The CIF has already taken several actions, and we are ready to provide more help. We also encourage all industry stakeholders to support collision repair

Iowa School Board Approves IGNITE Auto Repair Classes Through SWCC

Written by Ethan Hewett, KMA Land News
Published Aug. 16, 2023

Shenandoah Community School District officials in Iowa have thrown their support behind a career technology education program for IGNITE students.

Meeting in regular session Aug. 14, the Shenandoah School Board approved an educational services contract with Southwestern Community College in Creston, IA, for auto repair technology coursework for the 2023-24 school year. Speaking on KMA's "Morning Line" program Aug. 15, Shenandoah School Superintendent Dr. Kerri Nelson said the agreement is primarily to serve their online students who don't have as easy of access

11-Year-Old 'Automotive Prodigy' Can't Drive Yet, but Educates the Masses on All Things Cars

By Will Oliver, LehighValleyNews.com
Published Aug. 16, 2023

There's a theory that 10,000 hours of quality practice at something can make one a master at that task.

If that's the case, one Hellertown, PA, preteen is probably well on his way to meeting that threshold, as he's been consistently keeping at the art of cars and making it his lifestyle for most of his life.

Giuseppe's Garage

Giuseppe Iatarola, 11, has made a name for himself with his social media channel and website ...

Harvey's Collision Centers Acquires Pro Star Collision in Mesquite, TX

PublishedAug. 16, 2023

Harvey’s Collision Centers, family-owned and operated since 1956, announced the successful acquisition of Pro Star Collision in Mesquite, TX. This strategic move marks Harvey’s third location in the thriving Dallas/Fort Worth market, further solidifying its commitment to providing top-notch auto body repair services across the DFW metroplex.

“We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of Pro Star Collision and welcome their skilled team into the Harvey’s Collision Centers family,” said Jeff McFadden, CEO of Harvey’s Collision Centers. “This expansion represents a significant milestone as we

More EV Charging Stations Coming to Pennsylvania

Written by Anthony Hennen, The Center Square
Published Aug. 15, 2023

Gov. Josh Shapiro said Aug. 14 that Pennsylvania will spend $34 million on dozens of projects in the commonwealth to build out charging stations for electric vehicles.

The money is part of a five-year, $172 million federal grant and the latest installment will support 54 projects in 35 counties.

State officials argued Pennsylvania is ahead of the curve.

"Because of Gov. Shapiro's leadership and record of delivering for Pennsylvanians, we are among the first states distributing these funds that will provide travelers with options and confidence while also

AACF Assisting Aftermarket Industry Families Affected by Hawaii Fires

PublishedAug. 14, 2023

The devastating Lahaina fires have left a trail of destruction, impacting not only properties but also the lives of countless families in the automotive aftermarket industry. In these trying times, the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) is stepping forward to provide much-needed support to the affected families.

The Lahaina fires have been an unprecedented disaster, displacing families, disrupting businesses and causing distress to industry partners. In light of these circumstances, the AACF has rallied its resources and expertise to extend a helping hand to the aftermarket industry families

Area 31 Career Center Prepares Indiana High Schoolers for Variety of Careers

Written by Jade Thomas, Chalkbeat Indiana
Published Aug. 14, 2023

The halls of Area 31 Career Center in Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis, IN, are quiet. It’s a Friday afternoon in the second week of school, and behind each door, a new career path awaits. 

Patrick Biggerstaff, director of career and technical education, opens the door to the automotive collision repair course and the empty hallway is suddenly engulfed in sound. Tools line the walls and cars of all makes and models fill the space. Students wearing safety goggles hose and mop the floor. 

Behind another door is an ambulance

Cruise Explains Driverless Robotaxi Traffic Fiasco in San Francisco

Written by Simon Alvarez, Teslarati
Published Aug. 14, 2023

The evening of Aug. 11, as many as 10 Cruisedriverless robotaxis stopped in San Francisco’s North Beach. The incident caused traffic to back up, and it left skeptics questioning the city’s recent decision to allow driverless robotaxis to operate 24/7. 

Social media posts about the incident depicted multiple Cruise robotaxis stopped in the middle of Grant Avenue. The robotaxis had their hazards engaged, and

Waymo, Cruise Approved to Operate 24/7 Robotaxi Services in San Francisco

Written by Maria Merano, Teslarati
Published Aug. 13, 2023

Waymoand Cruisereceived victories in San Francisco, CA, where the two robotaxi providers received approval to operate their driverless cars 24/7 in the city. The approval came after a six-hour public meeting during which both supporters and critics of robotaxis expressed their thoughts on the matter. 

As noted in a report from The Verge, residents who were opposed to the Cruise and Waymo robotaxis cited incidents involving the driverless vehicles malfunctioning and breaking down in the middle of intersections and streets, among other concerns.

Classic Collision Adds 2 New Locations in Florida

PublishedAug. 11, 2023

Classic Collision, LLC, announced a new closing Aug. 11---the acquisition of Buchholz Paint & Auto Body in Gainesville, FL.

Buchholz Paint & Autobody is a two-location family owned and operated paint and collision repair center with more than 30 years of experience and an earned reputation for providing high quality services in the Gainesville area.

“We are a family business and believe that our customer needs to be treated as family. I’ve seen firsthand that Classic Collision treats everyone like family,” said Brad Buchholz, former owner of Buchholz Paint & Auto Body.

“Buchholz

Milwaukee Military Member Receives Vehicle from NABC Recycled Rides

PublishedAug. 11, 2023

On July 25, a Milwaukee area military member experienced a life-changing event---the presentation of a vehicle to provide her independence and the ability to work---thanks to the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides® program, along with car donor American Family Insurance and repair partner Gerber Collision & Glass. 

The presentation was held at the Milwaukee Brewers home game. The deserving recipient was selected by University of Wisconsin Veterans Services.

The recipient was U.S. Air National Guard SrA Abygail Boyle of Madison, WI. She serves as a fire

Maui Recovery Could Take Billions and Several Years

Written by Kim Jarrett, The Center Square
Published Aug. 11, 2023

Hawaiian officials pledge to rebuild parts of Maui devastated by a fire, but Gov. Josh Green said Aug 10 it could take billions to rebuild.

The fire has killed at least 53 people, and an unknown number of people are still missing, said Maui County Police Chief John Pelletier.

Hundreds of homes and buildings were destroyed in Lahaina, but officials do not have an exact count. Much of the western part of the island does not have power or internet service, officials said.

"In perspective, it's going to take many years to rebuild Lahaina," Green

Colorado Proposes Generous EV Incentives for New Buyers

Written by Suvrat Kothari, InsideEVs
Published Aug. 11, 2023

Colorado could soon compete with California for maximum incentives offered on electric vehicle purchases. A new report indicates that Colorado EV buyers can save thousands of dollars on new and used EV purchases.

Gov. Jared Polis’ administration aims to add nearly 1 million light-duty EVs on Colorado’s streets by the end of the decade, a significant increase from the current 86,000 EVs now on its roads, reported Colorado Public Radio News.

To meet this ambitious target, buyers would need to begin adopting zero-emissions vehicles in the coming years, something

NHTSA Opens Special Probe into Fatal Tesla Model Y Crash in Virginia

Written by Dan Mihalascu, InsideEVs
Published Aug. 11, 2023

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is opening a special crash investigation into a deadly accident involving a TeslaModel Y that smashed into a heavy truck.

The auto safety regulator is probing the July 19 fatal crash in which the driver of the Tesla died after striking a tractor-trailer truck in Warrenton, VA. According to Reuters, NHTSA has reasons to suspect the Tesla was relying on Autopilot when it plowed into the truck.

The 57-year-old Tesla driver was killed after the tractor-trailer was attempting to turn onto a

Colorado Springs Auto Repair Shop Gifts Car to New U.S. Citizen

Written by Rachel Saurer, FOX21 News
Published Aug. 11, 2023

A new U.S. citizen received a vital tool to help her pursue her American dream.

“I’m so excited. They changed my life,” said Adela Martin.

On Aug. 9, Adam & Son auto repair in Colorado Springs, CO, presented Martin with a used car.

“We are helping somebody get into transportation. So, she can keep her job, stay employed versus losing her job,” said Dan Adam, founder and owner of Adam & Son.

Martin moved to the U.S. when she was 16 to find work to help support her three brothers and sister who came with

Houston First Responders Learn New Rescue Skills Through NABC F.R.E.E. Program

PublishedAug. 11, 2023

More than 40 first responders from the Houston Fire Department and surrounding areas donned their rescue gear July 29 for a hands-on demonstration of the latest techniques in emergency vehicle extrication, preparing them to provide the best response for car accident victims in Houston, all thanks to CARSTAR Ambassador Collision Center, Allstate Insurance, Genesis Rescue Systems and the National Auto Body Council® (NABC) First Responder Emergency Education (F.R.E.E.)™ program.

CARSTAR Ambassador Collision Center in Houston hosted the first responders for the education and guidance

SCRS Meeting Includes Presentations from State Organizations in Ohio, Indiana

Written by John Yoswick, Autobody News
Published Aug. 10, 2023

The executive director of the Ohio Board of Motor Vehicle Repair said it now primarily uses administrative hearings to enforce the state’s shop registration requirements---rather than injunctions and locking violators out of the facilities where they are repairing vehicles.

Speaking at a Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) meeting in Indianapolis this summer, Mike Greene said the state’s current

Minnesota Abra Auto Body Shops Shine Bright as National Standard Setter

PublishedAug. 10, 2023

The votes are in, and Minnesota employees have spoken. Star Tribune recently announced its 2023 National Standard Setters for top workplaces in the state of Minnesota and Abra Auto Body was fortunate enough to grace the list.

Minnesota employees were surveyed using Energage, an employment engagement platform, and results were published at the end of summer. The honored locations include Abra Cloquet, Abra Duluth, Abra Elk River, Abra Princeton and Abra St. Cloud/Waite Park, where Danyell Wendland serves

Dave Luehr’s Elite Body Shop Academy Launches In-Person Nashville Workshops

PublishedAug. 9, 2023

Dave Luehr, collision repair industry expert and founder of Elite Body Shop Solutions and the Elite Body Shop Academy, is excited to announce the launch of in-person Nashville, TN, training workshops, designed to offer in-depth, action-oriented operational training to body shop owners, managers and their administrative teams. 

The workshop topics and schedule can be found here. 

Over the past five years, the academy has become known for affordable and impactful

Chevy Bolt EV That Missed Battery Recall Spontaneously Combusts in MA Driveway

Written by Chris Chilton, CarScoops
Published Aug. 9, 2023

A 2021 ChevyBolt caught fire outside its owner's house in Massachusetts---a blaze that might not have happened at all if the Bolt had been repaired as part of a recall announced by GMin 2021 when it discovered some EVs were catching fire due to faulty batteries. 

The owner of the Bolt told reporters the car had not been updated. “They had no batteries to give us, so we were waiting,” she said in an interview with WCVB Channel 5 Boston. 

GM originally announced it would replace the entire battery pack of every Bolt EV built between

Texas-Based MSO On the Road Garage Joins 1Collision

PublishedAug. 9, 2023

1Collisionis excited to announce the addition of On the Road Garage, which operates two locations in Texas. The Irving facility opened in 2020 and two years later, an additional location was established in Dallas. The company has 40 full-time employees.

“We are pleased to be adding our first licensees in the Dallas, TX, area,” said John Hollingsworth, 1Collision's director of new location development. “Roy Villarreal and his team strive for greatness and they know there are always things that can be improved upon. We look forward to supporting them in their mission to

Here's How Pepsi Runs Its 21 Tesla Semi Trucks at Sacramento Depot

Written by Dan Mihalascu, InsideEVs
Published Aug. 9, 2023

While PepsiCo---the first commercial owner of a TeslaSemi fleet---may be limited by its contract with Tesla when it comes to the amount and type of information it can disclose to the public, the company has provided interesting insight into the Tesla Semi ownership experience over the past few months.

Now, we get to learn more about Tesla's first commercial vehicle courtesy of a new video that offers a look into how the Semi is helping PepsiCo achieve its sustainability

Phoenix Sees 719% Increase in Kia Thefts, 412% for Hyundai in 2023

Written by Cole Lauterbach, The Center Square
Published Aug. 8, 2023

Car thefts of two kinds of vehicles in Phoenix have skyrocketed due to a social media trend showing how easily they can be broken into.

The Phoenix Police Department released crime statistics showing violent crimes are slightly lower in the first half of the year compared to the same time in 2022. Property crimes are also down by 10% overall.

The department considers burglary, theft, arson and motor vehicle theft in the category of property crimes. All of those dropped except for stolen vehicles, up 4% on the year compared to the first half of last year.

Of the

SCRS Airs Collision Shops’ Concerns About Insurers to Washington State Regulators

Written by John Yoswick, Autobody News
Published Aug. 8, 2023

The Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) held a workshop this summer to discuss possible ways to address a record number of consumer complaints being filed with the office in recent years. This past April, for example, the regulator received 467 complaints, up more than 62% from a historic average of 287.

Aaron Schulenburg, executive director of the Society of Collision Repair