The “Big 3” Interview
Reps from Ford, GM and DaimlerChrysler speak candidly about their plans, their problems and their predictions for the collision repair industry.
Should You Repair Air Bags?
With the right training and tools, air-bag replacement can be done at your shop — bringing you more profits and more control over uncontrollable circumstances.
Purchasing Profile: Aftermarket (A/M) Crash Parts have had One Roller Coaster of a Year
Aftermarket (A/M) crash parts have had one roller coaster of a year: On one hand, the Consumer Reports cover story on A/M parts brought a lot of negative attention to them and opened the eyes of a lot of consumers. On the other hand, at the Collision Industry Conference’s (CIC) recent "fit and finish" demonstration
Writing Better Estimates
Have you ever heard the saying “with knowledge comes power”? Whether you have or haven’t, take a moment to think about how powerful that statement really is. Now relate that statement to running your business.
Are You Guilty Of Fraud?
Before shop owners condemn the practices of insurers, they need to take a long, hard look at themselves. Committing fraud is dishonest, immoral and illegal – yet many continue to do it.
The Science of Paint
Ever wonder about the people formulating today’s paint products — and if they have any clue how their creations affect refinishers? Wonder no more. Some of the industry’s leading paint chemists answer the questions on everyone’s minds.
More Than A Desk Job: Office Managers
Being the office manager for a collision repair shop can be an exciting, sometimes confusing and very rewarding job. The key to reaping the rewards of efficient, organized and informed office mangers is to give them more responsibility than simply answering the phones, greeting customers and balancing the checkbook.
Stuck On Plastics: Adhesion Problems
Ever had a flaky experience when refinishing plastic parts? You’re not alone. To help prevent further adhesion problems, consider these common-sense cures — used by a pro whose history with plastics is long and sordid.
Frame Rail: Repair or Replace?
Because your customers’ safety is in your hands, it’s crucial to know when – and when not – to section a damaged frame rail.
Getting Into Customers’ Heads: Increasing the Chances of Selling Every Job
Hopefully, we can all agree that collision repair falls into two distinct operations: sales and production. Your shop may have the very latest heated downdraft booth and the snazziest computer-driven structural-repair bench, but unless you can get the customer to let your shop perform the repair, all the equipment in the world won’t help.