February, 2000 Archives - BodyShop Business
Live From Motor City: The 2000 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS)

With our press badges in hand and our cameras poised, we scoured the North American International Auto Show in search of the world’s coolest concept cars. Ever seen a Bugatti Veyron or a Mercedes-Benz SLA? We have — and we have pictures to prove it!

Preventing Customer Defects

Stop current customers from crossing enemy lines and heading for your competitor by keeping them informed and letting them know you value their business

Class Action Re-Action: Snider vs. State Farm Verdict

The Snider vs. State Farm verdict got the attention of repairers, insurers, consumers … and many, many lawyers — who didn’t waste any time filing copycat lawsuits. But with the spotlight now on insurance companies, should shops also be concerned?

Becoming the Sand Man

Sanding might not be the most exciting job in the shop, but don’t underestimate its importance. It’s a craft that demands skill and attention to detail. Are you and your techs paying it enough attention?

Dirt Hurts: Simple Car-Care Cleanliness Tips.

As collision repairers, we work in and generate so much dirt that we tend to ignore it. Customers, however, notice dirt immediately — especially when it’s in or on their vehicles. To get noticed for your quality repairs instead of the grime you leave behind, follow these simple car-care cleanliness tips.

Diminished Coverage for Diminished Value

Recently, the Insurance Services Office concluded that diminished value (DV) isn’t covered in the language of Personal Auto Policies. This may soon lead to head-to-head battles between insurers and consumers, since both sides interpret DV differently. But what effect will the exclusion –– and the head butting –– have on the collision industry?

No Grease Monkeys Here: Our Industry’s Image

If you don’t think a lot of the problems we face in the collision repair industry are related to our negative image, think again. Between the public and the educators, our industry is often viewed as fit employment only for the mentally disabled and the drug and alcohol impaired. But it’s not their fault they think that way — it’s ours.

Powertrain Considerations

It’s easy to spot a dented fender, a cracked headlight or a crumpled rear decklid. But since there’s more to a collision-damaged vehicle than meets the eye, powertrain damage should be a top consideration –– if you want to ensure your customers’ vehicles get thoroughly repaired

Masking at High Speeds

When it comes to masking, plenty of products are available to get the job done economically. But because labor time is the most expensive component, the trick is to find a combination of products that effectively protect the car while allowing you to cover and uncover the vehicle in the least amount of time.

Behind the Paint: History!

Mistakes, World War II, foreign invasion and guinea pigs all played a part in the history of automotive paint. Who said history had to be boring?