Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - March 2026

CALENDAR 2026

Taipei AMPA

Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, Taiwan

14 – 17 April 2026 www.taipeiampa.com.tw

Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo 2026

Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

14 – 16 May 2026 www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

Collision Repair Expo 2026

Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

14 – 16 May 2026 www.collisionrepair.com.au

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Malaysia

14 – 16 May 2026 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Malaysia 14 – 16 May 2026 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Automechanika Frankfurt Frankfurt Exhibition Grounds

8 – 12 September 2026 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

NEW MEMBERS

Autopro Munno Para

600 Main North Road

Smithfield SA 5114

E: sales@munnopara.autopro.com.au

B & D Automotive Repairs

179 Camden Street

Ulladulla NSW 2539

E: admin@bandauto.com.au

Bosch Car Service Kings Park (JAS Automotive)

14 Harvey Road

Kings Park NSW 2148

E: jasautomotive@yahoo.com.au

CPS Products APAC

54 Pym Street

Dudley Park SA 5008

E: sales@cpsaustralia.com.au

Cuzzys Automotive

8 Jones Street

O’Connor WA 6163

E: Cuzziesautomotive@gmail.com

East Coast AE Pty Ltd

66 Price Street

Nambour QLD 4560

E: admin@eastcoastautoelectrics.com

Kimtec Automotive Pty Ltd

unit 4/25-29 Nancarrow Avenue

Ryde NSW 2112

E: info@kimtecautomotive.com

MDP Mechanical Pty Ltd

5 Crispe Street

Alice Springs NT 0870

E: service.mdp@outlook.com

Melbourne Diesel Systems

9/180 Fairbairn Road

Sunshine West VIC 3020

E: helen@melbournedieselsystems.com.au

Mick Tighe 4x4 & Outdoor

11 Mort Street

Toowoomba QLD 4350

E: mick@micktighe4x4.com.au

CHAIRMAN

MindArc

4 Australia Street

Camperdown NSW 2050

E: hello@mindarc.com.au

Modified Explorer

79 Cummins Street

Unanderra NSW 2526

E: modified.explorer@gmail.com

Notts ADAS

E: adas@nottssmahrepairs.com.au

Openhood

L6 191 St Georges Tce

Perth WA 6000

E: david.hack@betterlabs.com.au

Repco Authorised Service Devonport (Rotech Automotive Devonport)

76 Hiller Street

Devonport TAS 7310

E: rotechautomotivedevonport@gmail.com

Repco Authorised Service Geraldton (Lotter’s Diesel)

39 Bradford Street

Wonthella WA 6530

E: pieter@ltdiesel.com.au

Southern Sydney Mechanical Pty Ltd

Unit 4g 1/3 Endeavour Road

Caringbah NSW 2229

E: steve@southernsydneymechanical.com.au

The Cruiser Company

7 Production Way

Pakenham VIC 3810

E: design@thecruisercompany.com.au

Tuff Streeters

32 Silkwood Rise

Carrum Downs VIC 3201

E: Matt@tuffstreeters.com.au

Ultra Tune Christies Beach

134 Beach Road

Christies Beach SA 5165

E: christiesbeach@ultratune.com.au

AAAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DEPUTY

SECRETARY

DIRECTORS

THE NEXT DECADE WON’T WAIT

Ten years ago, the average workshop could reasonably anticipate what the next week’s bookings would look like

Investment decisions were incremental. Tooling and training followed a manageable curve. Businesses could keep up by being good operators, backing their instincts, and investing steadily over time.

That world has changed – quickly. Today, vehicles entering Australian workshops are heavier, more software-driven, connected, and increasingly defined by sensors and advanced driver-assist systems.

The challenge across the aftermarket is not willingness or professionalism. It is the pace of structural change — and knowing where investment will deliver the greatest return.

The new vehicle market tells the story. Over the past decade, Australia’s car parc has not simply evolved – it has been reshaped.

SUVs and utes now dominate new vehicle sales.

Passenger cars, once the core of the fleet, have contracted sharply. Medium and small SUVs, together with light commercial utilities, now account for the majority of new registrations. At the same time, the brand mix has shifted. Manufacturers such as GWM, BYD and MG –barely visible in the Australian market a decade ago – now represent a significant share of new vehicle sales.

Electric vehicles rightly attract attention, and EV capability must form part of any forward-looking strategy. Battery electric vehicles are forecast to represent a growing but still modest proportion of the total fleet by the end of the decade, even when combined with plug-in hybrids. Petrol and diesel vehicles will remain the majority of cars on Australian roads well into the 2030s.

The more immediate and widespread shift, however, is Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). ADAS penetration is accelerating rapidly. With Advanced Emergency Braking (AEB) now

mandatory on new vehicles, projections suggest that by 2030 close to half of vehicles in the national car parc will be equipped with advanced driver-assist technology. This shift changes the way vehicles are diagnosed and repaired, requiring calibration equipment, scan tool capability, software subscriptions, technician training, and quoting accuracy.

The operational pressure to “work around” these systems in a busy environment is real – but so are the risks. This is not theoretical change; it is the daily operational reality across thousands of workshops.

Importantly, this acceleration in technology is occurring against a backdrop of continued demand. The broader aftermarket remains resilient. Demand is strong. The vehicle fleet is expanding and ageing simultaneously, supporting sustained service and repair activity. However, capability is the constraint.

Workforce shortages consistently rank as the leading concern for businesses across the sector. Technician recruitment and retention sit ahead of most other pressures. Projections indicate a significant shortfall in qualified technicians in coming years, placing further strain on productivity and succession planning.

When rapid technological change converges with workforce pressure, hesitation becomes understandable. Tool upgrades are deferred. Training is postponed. Investment decisions are delayed. The result can be uneven capability and growing operational stress.

The question, then, is how to maintain clarity and confidence in the face of this pace of change.

The answer is not to chase every headline, nor to invest reactively. It is to make informed decisions based on real capability and real-world experience. Businesses that understand the direction of the car parc and invest deliberately will be well positioned. Those that delay may find the gap widening more quickly than expected.

This is precisely why the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo matters. Co-located with the Collision Repair Expo, it is not simply a trade show, but a concentrated, once-every-two-years gathering of workshops, suppliers and industry leaders to assess where the market stands. From 14-16 May 2026, the Expo offers the chance to step back from daily operational demands, examine the broader trajectory of the fleet, plan with intent and invest with confidence.

The Expo will deliver world-class business and technical training led by respected international and local experts, addressing the issues shaping

our industry. Alongside these programs, the exhibition floor brings together leading brands and the latest tooling, diagnostics and calibration systems.

It is where technicians and workshop owners build capability, where equipment manufacturers and trainers can be questioned directly on realworld implementation, and where emerging technologies can be compared side-by-side. It is also where those already implementing ADAS calibration and EV safety procedures will share practical lessons learned.

The Australian aftermarket has never been passive. It has adapted from carburettors to fuel injection, from mechanical systems to electronic control, from analogue diagnostics to networked vehicles. Each shift has required investment and collaboration. The next decade will be no different – except in speed.

The future of the aftermarket is already arriving in workshops every day. The next decade is not approaching. It is here.

To explore the valuable training program sessions and other features of Australia’s largest aftermarket event, and to register for free, head to www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer

NEWS TIME TO CELEBRATE

Capricorn Group

CEO, Brad Gannon, is celebrating IWD and getting ready for the next State of the Nation report

March is a time to celebrate the people who power our industry, the business owners, the teams in workshops and offices, and the next generation coming through.

FOCUS ON CONSUMER GUARANTEES IN MOTOR VEHICLE PURCHASES WELCOMED

BY AAAA

Under Australian consumer law, consumer guarantees are automatic

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has welcomed the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) compliance and enforcement priorities for 2026–27, particularly its continued focus on consumer guarantees in motor vehicle sales.

With International Women’s Day on 8 March, it is important to recognise the growing contribution women are making across the automotive industry.

Women make up around 22 percent of the automotive workforce, with participation steadily increasing in both trade and technical roles. Encouragingly, female qualified mechanics have almost doubled over the past few years, and 16 percent of workshops now employ a female apprentice.

Whether on the tools, in leadership, administration, or customer-facing roles, women play a vital part in keeping our businesses running and our industry moving forward. Looking ahead, our annual State of the Nation research will be launching in April, giving Members the opportunity to share what’s happening in their businesses.

By capturing insights from workshops across Australia and New Zealand, we’re able to advocate with credibility for small automotive businesses.

These insights directly influence the Capricorn Skills Strategy, advocacy priorities, and the support Capricorn delivers throughout the year.

Insights from the research informed Capricorn’s acquisition of Australian Skilled Migration (ASM), who have recently become a Capricorn Preferred Supplier.

This is a practical example of how we turn research into action to help support Members and the future workforce.

I encourage you to take the time to complete this year’s survey.

Together, we can influence change.

For more on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop

AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said the ACCC’s emphasis is timely given ongoing confusion among new car buyers about the difference between manufacturer warranties, extended warranties, and their automatic rights under the Australian Consumer Law.

“Consumers are routinely told, directly or indirectly, that their rights end when a manufacturer’s warranty ends – or that they must return to the dealer for servicing to protect their warranty. That’s simply not how Australian consumer law works,” Stuart said.

Under Australian consumer law, consumer guarantees are automatic and cannot be excluded or limited by anything stated in a contract, warranty document or at the point of sale.

For motor vehicles, these guarantees apply for an unspecified but reasonable period and require that a vehicle be of acceptable quality – including being safe, durable and free from defects – be fit for any disclosed purpose, match its description or demonstration model, and have spare parts and repair facilities reasonably available.

Where a vehicle has a major problem, consumers are entitled to choose a refund or replacement, and in some cases a repair. For non-major problems, consumers may still be entitled to repair or replacement.

“The key point is this: a manufacturer’s warranty is an additional promise – it does not replace consumer guarantees. Consumers should never accept ‘your warranty has expired’ as the end of the story,” Stuart said.

The AAAA emphasised that consumer guarantee rights apply regardless of whether an independent technician services or repairs the vehicle.

Motorists are entitled to have their vehicle maintained by a qualified independent repairer while preserving their consumer protections. AAAA research shows 40 percent of new car owners believe they must return to the dealer to maintain their warranty, 40 percent understand they can choose a qualified independent repairer and still rely on consumer protections, and 20 percent remain unsure.

“In practice, that means up to 60 percent of new car owners could be making decisions based on confusion or misinformation. That’s a competition issue as much as it is a consumer issue,” Stuart said.

The AAAA has encouraged vehicle sellers, manufacturers, and warranty providers to ensure communications are clear and not misleading, particularly where extended warranties include restrictive conditions, such as tied repairer arrangements, that may confuse consumers about rights they already have under consumer guarantees.

“We welcome the ACCC’s renewed focus and look forward to working constructively with the Commission to lift awareness and improve compliance – so consumers can confidently choose their repairer, keep servicing affordable, and ensure competition continues to drive innovation across our industry,” Stuart said.

For more from the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au

RIGHT TO REPAIR JUST PROVED ITS VALUE: $2.4 BILLION

For more than a decade, the independent aftermarket has been making the same simple argument: if we can access the repair information, we can compete, and motorists win

We fought hard to get Australia’s Right to Repair law in place, and since it commenced on 1 July 2022, workshops across the country have been doing exactly what we said we would do: repairing more vehicles, more safely and efficiently, with more choice for customers.

Now we’ve got something we haven’t had before: proof in black and white. The Government’s final review of the Scheme has landed, and the headline is as blunt as it is satisfying: Right to Repair is working. It is delivering more competition, more choice, and measurable economic impact.

And yes, it finally puts a dollar figure on what our industry has been saying for years.

The number that matters is $2.4 billion.

The Review found that the Scheme has produced an estimated 6.7 percent expansion in industry turnover – equivalent to $2.4 billion.

That isn’t a “nice in principle” reform. It is hard evidence that when independent workshops can access repair information on fair terms, the repair market becomes more competitive, and the industry grows.

That matters because Right to Repair was never about special treatment. It was about removing the handbrake on competition. When manufacturers control the information, they control the repair market; but when access is fair, workshops can get on with the job and motorists can choose where they service their vehicles without strings attached.

40 percent fewer “sorry, we can’t do it” moments

Here is the other stat that jumped off the page: market research cited in the review reported a 40 percent reduction in vehicles being turned away by repairers utilising the Law.

That’s enormous for workshops, and for motorists.

A turn-away isn’t just a lost job. It is another week without the vehicle. It is the feeling you are being funnelled back to a dealer network because the independent option can’t access what it needs.

So yes: the law is delivering. But the review also makes it clear the Scheme must keep evolving as vehicles become more connected, more softwaredriven, and more controlled by security gateways.

The next reform priorities, straight from workshop pain points

The review sets out the next priorities, and they line up exactly with what workshops keep telling us:

• Electronic logbooks – so a customer’s service record is portable and recognised, no matter where they service their vehicle.

• Intermediaries (tool makers and data aggregators) – because no workshop wants to juggle a dozen OEM portals just to do everyday work.

• Hardware and diagnostic tool access – where proprietary hardware is required, cost and availability can become a barrier to competing.

• Smarter handling of safety and security information – protecting sensitive information matters, but the current approach can create a real productivity drag.

• Clearer compliance and stronger enforcement – patchy compliance risks undermining confidence in the Scheme, so enforcement needs to be more visible and practical.

• Telematics and connected-car data – the review says connected-car systems aren’t materially distorting competition yet. We disagree, and we’re going to have to work hard to build the evidence base, because software and data increasingly determine what’s diagnosable and repairable.

Right to Repair has proven a simple point: when workshops can get the information, competition works, and motorists win. But vehicles are changing fast. If access doesn’t keep up with software locks, security gateways and electronic service histories, the market can slide backwards, and “choice” becomes a slogan instead of a reality.

Three things I want workshops to take from this

1. This is proof. The review confirms the Scheme is broadly achieving its objectives and supporting consumer choice and productivity.

2. This is economic reform, not niche industry policy. A $2.4 billion uplift is the kind of number governments pay attention to, especially in a cost-of-living environment.

Lesley Yates, AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy info@aaaa.com.au

3. The next round will be won (or lost) on real workshop experience. Consultation matters. The strongest input isn’t the fanciest wording, it is the clear, practical examples of what happens when you hit a portal block, a tool lock, a security pathway that doesn’t work, or a service record you can’t update.

Right to Repair was never about giving anyone a free ride. It is about ensuring the market stays open, so the best repair option wins on capability, trust, price and service…not on who controls the login.

And here’s the overwhelming takeaway for me: this is what happens when we behave as one industry.

We are fiercely independent, and yes, often fragmented. The aftermarket isn’t one neat box. It is thousands of businesses across dozens of specialties: workshops, parts suppliers, tool makers, remanufacturers, trainers, 4WD and performance specialists, all doing what we do best: solving problems and getting Australians back on the road.

Right to Repair didn’t happen because one segment shouted the loudest. It happened because we stood shoulder to shoulder, stayed disciplined, and kept making the same simple case: a fair market needs fair access.

Now we’ve got proof it worked: fewer turn-aways, more choice, and an industry that’s grown by billions. That should make every one of us proud. So, let’s not drift back into our corners now that the hard work is paying off.

We did this together. We’ll only keep it delivering for us if we work together. And as cars become more software-driven, the next phase matters just as much. This is worth protecting. It is worth fighting for: because it protects the customer’s right to choose, and it protects our right to compete.

If you would like to offer your thoughts on this subject, please email advocacy@aaaa.com.au

WORLD CAR FINALS POWERED BY BREMBO ANNOUNCES CAR PERSON OF THE YEAR

Oliver Zipse has been awarded the honour

On February 26 the World Car Finals powered by Brembo was delighted to announce BMW AMG Chairman of the Board of Management, Oliver Zipse, as the 2026 World Car Person of the Year.

Oliver has led BMW AG as Chairman of the Board of Management since August 2019, guiding one of the world’s most respected premium automotive groups through a period of profound technological and strategic transformation.

“I am honoured to be named World Car Person of the Year 2026,” Oliver said.

“To me, this is much more than just an award for my tenure as BMW’s CEO: it is a recognition of our strategic course and the courage we have shown to pursue the company’s biggest project ever, the Neue Klasse. And, most importantly, it is an award for all BMW employees.

“Therefore, I would like to thank all our associates: for their dedication, their passion, and their pioneering spirit.

“The Neue Klasse is a prime example of the remarkable achievements that can be made possible by this collective effort.”

Oliver was one of three World Car Person of the Year contenders which were announced on February 10, featuring alongside General Motors Staff Product Manager, David Craig, and Slate Head of Design, Tisha Johnson.

“The 2026 World Car Person of the Year award celebrates exceptional leadership at the highest level of the automotive industry, and we congratulate this year’s winner, Oliver Zipse,” Brembo Chief Executive Officer, Daniele Schillaci, said.

“We are proud to support an initiative that promotes vision, innovation and a long-term commitment to shaping the future of mobility.”

To learn more about the World Car Awards, visit www.worldcarawards.com

For more from Brembo, visit www.brembogroup.com

NEW FORMATS FOR AUTOMECHANIKA FRANKFURT

New formats at the event will focus on future trends, networking, and the promotion of up-andcoming talent

Major trends like AI, e-mobility, digitalisation, sustainability and new mobility concepts are creating challenges for the automotive industry.

Developments linked to connected cars and software defined vehicles are also setting the agenda for the automotive aftermarket.

Organisers say that is why this year’s Automechanika Frankfurt – from 8 to 12 September – features many networking opportunities for key market participants and new players alike.

As a world leading trade fair for the automotive service industry, Automechanika will put the spotlight on new technologies and services for industry, workshops and retailers.

This year’s event is marked by a new partnership between the Association of International Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (VDIK) and Automechanika Frankfurt.

The goal is to join forces to further strengthen the branded aftermarket and address the issues that will define the future.

“Vehicle data are playing a growing role in business models for the aftersales sector,” Automechanika Frankfurt Vice President, Mobility and Logistics, Michael Johannes, said.

“Assistance systems, car safety and car entertainment are particular areas of growth.

“On the customer side, there has been a noticeable uptick in interest in maintenance and service management.

“As an international platform for the automotive service industry, Automechanika is the ideal platform for workshops, industry and retailers to do business and share expertise.”

VDIK is organising a new dialogue and event series called ‘Road to Automechanika’ in the months leading up to the trade fair that addresses the most pressing issues in the aftersales industry.

The kick-off event was held in Berlin on 28 January and will be followed by an event in Frankfurt on 24 March and one in Berlin on 24 June.

Software defined vehicles is another new area of focus at the trade fair and will occupy a prominent position in the Festhalle.

“The new HighTech4Mobility forum will be spotlighting questions like: How far has the development of software defined vehicle technologies progressed? What strategies have been conceived for effective lifecycle management? And what is the state of play regarding advanced

driver assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous driving, data management, cybersecurity and incar entertainment?” Automechanika Frankfurt Director, Olaf Mußhoff, said.

“Software firms, OEMs, Tier One suppliers and industry experts have all been invited to discuss the strategies, innovations and new business models that matter for the aftermarket.”

The supporting programme also includes two new action-packed event formats taking place on the outdoor exhibition grounds that offer pure emotion.

The 200-metre-long Automechanika pitlane beneath the arcades of Hall Four is set to become the new meeting place for motorsport fans.

Here, visitors can look forward to lots of live action with major figures from the world of motor sports, their race cars and the roar of their engines, as well as exciting challenges and exclusive insights. People looking for an off-road feeling will be making their way to the new ‘Experience Park’ outside Halls Nine and 11, where plans call for XXL vehicles such as monster trucks, a Unimog course and other attractions like a vehicle rollover simulator.

Visitors can look forward to test drives with e-vehicles and other alternative drive vehicles at the ‘Future Mobility Park’ in the Agora.

Also the range of classic and collectible cars is being expanded this year, as the trade fair organisers joined with FIVA (Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens), a leading international association for classic cars, and the companies Bosch, DAT, Eucon and ROWE to launch the Classic Alliance.

Live restorations of an extraordinary vehicle, captivating talks on the Hall 11.1 stage in the Classic Car area, and wide-ranging opportunities for in-person interaction all feature in the programme.

There will also be a Happy Hour held every afternoon, and Ambition – a new event format at Automechanika Frankfurt devoted to Gen Z and Gen Alpha – will offer everything from career opportunities and technological inspiration to pure entertainment.

For more information, visit www.automechanika.com

INTERNATIONAL EXPERTS TO LEAD WORLD-CLASS TRAINING PROGRAMS AT 2026 AAAE

The Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo will be held across May 14-16 in Melbourne

Global experts will join Australia’s leading industry voices at the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo to deliver a high-impact training program designed to build skills, strengthen businesses, and accelerate careers across the aftermarket.

Tailored for technicians and automotive professionals at every level, the program delivers world-class knowledge, practical insights, and future-focused education at Australia’s premier aftermarket exhibition.

Proudly sponsored by Repco and co-located with the Collision Repair Expo, the event brings together hundreds of leading brands, global innovation, and industry-driven learning under one roof, across May 14-16 in Melbourne.

A powerhouse lineup of international talent will lead the exclusive training programs, drawing on decades of automotive experience.

Steve Smith (UK) from Pico Technology is a highly regarded trainer helping technicians master complex diagnostics.

Scott Hicks (USA) from TOPDON USA, is an ASE Master Technician and globally recognised trainer and mentor.

Keith and Liz Perkins (USA), co-owners of L1 Automotive Group, are respected ASE Subject Matter Experts and a globally recognised authority in advanced diagnostics and module programming.

They are joined by Robert Snook (UK), Chief Executive Officer of Business Success Global and world-renowned automotive business coach.

Supporting this global lineup is a hand-selected group of Australia’s top trainers and business leaders delivering expertise across both technical and business management streams.

The Technical Training Program features highimpact free sessions addressing the most critical challenges facing the modern service bay.

Topics include NVH diagnostics, oscilloscope fault diagnosis, ICE-to-electric diagnostic fundamentals, engine oil additives, and thermal imaging to improve workshop efficiency.

The technical training experience extends onto the trade show floor with the newly introduced Diagnostic Discovery Zone, where attendees can explore real-world techniques, tools, and workflows, alongside the ADAS Training Zone, offering hands-on calibration insights, equipment showcases, and live demonstrations – ensuring technicians remain at the cutting edge of repair technology.

The Business Management Training stream is designed for owners and leaders seeking to better understand the evolving industry and position their businesses for future success.

Free sessions cover essential leadership skills, an interactive HR Q&A, ADAS Code of Conduct, customer expectations, business lifecycles, and strategies to make smart bets that drive productivity and long-term sustainability.

For those seeking deeper learning, exclusive halfday Advanced Technical Masterclasses will be held on May 13, the day before the Expo opens.

These paid, limited-capacity sessions provide indepth training with global experts including Keith and Liz Perkins, Steve Smith, and Scott Hicks, focusing on advanced programming, network communications, and diagnostic decision-making.

AAAA Chief Executive Officer Stuart Charity said attending Expo 2026 is a “no-brainer” for anyone serious about their career.

“There is huge demand for advanced skills, and Expo 2026 will deliver exactly what the industry needs to stay ahead,” Stuart said.

“Access to this world-class training is the single best move workshops can make to remain competitive.”

The event will be held from 14–16 May 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, with more than 13,000 industry professionals expected to attend.

Registration for the Expo and free training sessions is complimentary, making it the premier destination for learning, connection, and career advancement in the automotive trade.

For more information and to register for FREE, head to www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

GOVERNMENT STRENGTHENS AUSTRALIA’S WORLD-LEADING RIGHT TO REPAIR LAW

Proposed reforms are designed to cut costs and boost choice for motorists

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has welcomed the Australian Government’s response to Treasury’s review of the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme (MVIS), including consultation on targeted improvements that will make it easier and cheaper for independent workshops to access manufacturer repair information, protect consumer choice, and ensure Australian motorists continue to have competitive servicing options.

Building on the success of Australia’s worldleading Right to Repair Scheme, on February 6 the Honourable Dr Andrew Leigh MP announced consultation on a suite of reforms aimed at protecting motorists’ freedom to choose where they service their vehicles, while improving access to repair information, adapting the Scheme to technological change, and strengthening transparency and regulatory settings.

These reforms include electronic logbooks; expanded access for intermediaries; smarter access to higher-risk repair information with appropriate safeguards; improved hardware and diagnostic tool access; smarter handling of safety and security information; and more visible, practical compliance and enforcement.

“These are the real-world issues workshops encounter when servicing modern vehicles,”

AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

“Getting them right will determine whether the Scheme continues to deliver consistently across all makes and models – particularly for multibrand workshops that form the backbone of Australia’s independent repair sector.

“If a motorist chooses an independent workshop, that choice should not come with strings attached.

“For example, Australians should be able to

maintain a complete service record wherever they choose to service their vehicle – and that service history should be portable, usable, and recognised.”

The Government’s response also confirms the Scheme is delivering as intended.

The Treasury review found it has expanded consumer choice, improved access to repair information and supported safe, timely vehicle repairs, and has been associated with an estimated $2.4 billion increase in automotive industry turnover annually.

Independent workshops are experiencing improved capability, productivity and profitability.

This uplift reflects a more competitive repair market where independent workshops can do more work, more efficiently – delivering better value for Australian motorists.

“Right to Repair is delivering for motorists and small business, and this review is a clear endorsement that the Scheme is working,” Stuart said.

AAAA commended Treasury’s Right to Repair Unit for the integrity and technical rigour of its review, and for a respectful, thorough consultation process.

AAAA also acknowledged the Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP for continued leadership on right to repair, productivity and competition.

The Government has also confirmed that the Scheme must continue to evolve as vehicles become more connected and software-driven, with telematics remaining on the reform agenda. As connected-car data increasingly shapes what

is diagnosable, repairable and affordable, AAAA welcomed the Government’s recognition that the Scheme must keep pace to protect consumer choice and fair competition.

“Connected-car data is already reshaping the repair landscape,” Stuart said.

“We welcome the Government keeping telematics on the agenda and look forward to continued consultation on a clear, workable pathway that protects consumer choice and competition.”

The review also noted the role of the Australian Automotive Service and Repair Authority (AASRA) in supporting the day-to-day operation of the Scheme. AAAA recognises AASRA’s role in providing practical guidance and support to repairers.

AAAA also welcomed the Government’s announcement that it will consult on extending right to repair to agricultural machinery, reinforcing that right to repair is a broader competition and productivity reform agenda.

“Expanding right to repair to agriculture recognises the same principles at play – fair access, reduced downtime and stronger competition,” Stuart said.

“It is an important next step in ensuring right to repair continues to deliver tangible benefits for Australian businesses and consumers alike.”

AAAA said it looks forward to engaging constructively in the consultation process to ensure reforms deliver practical improvements for workshops and motorists, and that Australia’s right to repair framework remains world leading as the industry evolves.

For more from the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au

AASDN WA’S PATE RETURNS THIS SEPTEMBER

The event is designed to build capability for a stronger automotive industry

Following on from the success of PATE (Perth Automotive Training Event) in 2024, PATE is back for 2026 and AASDN (Australian Automotive Service Dealer Network) WA says it is set to be bigger, sharper, and more focused than ever.

As the automotive industry continues to advance at pace, the need for relevant, practical and forwardthinking training has never been greater.

AASDN WA explains PATE has been designed to meet that need, delivering real value across technical, business, and personal development. The event will be held across 11-12 September, 2026.

Supported by industry partners including preferred suppliers, PATE 2026 will once again bring together workshop owners, technicians, apprentices,

and industry partners for two days dedicated to strengthening capability across the sector.

From business owners through to technicians and apprentices, PATE aims to offer individual sessions that genuinely add value, supporting growth, development, upskilling and the long-term sustainability of an advancing industry.

The 2026 program will include:

• Technical training focused on modern vehicle systems and workshop application

• Business sessions designed to improve operational performance and leadership capability

• Personal development opportunities that strengthen individuals within their roles and teams

AASDN WA Chairman Chris Notte says the event plays an important role in supporting WA workshops to stay competitive and confident.

“PATE is about equipping our industry with the skills and insight needed to keep moving forward,” Chris said.

“It supports business owners, technicians and apprentices alike, ensuring we continue to build capability at every level.”

This year, key trainers will be returning alongside a number of new faces and hot topics, reflecting both industry continuity and emerging challenges.

LIQUI MOLY CONTINUES TO GROW

After once again surpassing production records in 2025, Liqui Moly has big plans for 2026

Liqui Moly, the German automotive chemicals specialist belonging to the Würth Group, ended the past year with top results in oil and additive production, with its sales increasing by eight percent. This achievement was rewarded by the management with a bonus of up to 7,000 euros per employee.

Looking ahead, three new foreign companies are to be established during 2026, with a groundbreaking ceremony to be held for what is the largest single construction project in the company’s history.

Liqui Moly explained it was an extremely turbulent year, both politically and economically. It reports that two thirds of the eight percent increase in sales was generated abroad, while in Germany, above average growth was achieved.

It states this is a result in which the workforce not only has its share, but also participates.

“Each of the almost 1,300 employees around the world now receives a bonus of up to 7,000 euros,” Liqui Moly Managing Director, Salvatore Coniglio, said in announcing the result.

Marking new production records were 119,000 metric tons of oil, 40 million oil containers, and 25 million cans of additives.

“In order to continue to grow, the Saarlouis site is planning to expand its production capacity to 160,000 metric tons of oil. In 2026, we’ll be implementing it step by step,” Liqui Moly Managing Director, Dr Uli Weller, said.

“On January 1, 2026, Meguin GmbH & Co. KG Mineralölwerke became LIQUI MOLY Produktions GmbH & Co. KG.

“This is merely a change of name for the 100 percent subsidiary.”

Additional production capacities will also be created at the company headquarters in Ulm through additional filling lines, automation and digitalisation.

In the future, the majority of the produced goods will be stored in a new logistics centre in northern Ulm. The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for this year.

“The largest construction project in the company’s

The program has been curated to ensure attendees walk away with practical knowledge they can apply immediately in their workshops.

While training is central, networking remains equally important.

One of AASDN WA’s key objectives is to create meaningful opportunities for members to connect, collaborate and strengthen industry relationships. It says PATE provides that environment with a professional yet relaxed setting where suppliers engage directly with decision-makers, members share insights openly, and the broader industry comes together with a common purpose.

As vehicle technology evolves and workforce demands shift, AASDN WA says collaboration will remain critical and PATE 2026 continues to play a role in ensuring WA’s automotive industry remains skilled.

For more information, visit www.aasdnwa.com.au

history will greatly improve our logistics processes,” Liqui Moly Managing Director, Günter Hiermaier, said.

“It is the key to greater competitiveness, even higher customer satisfaction and an essential component of our growth strategy.”

Further internationalisation is also part of the growth strategy.

“This year, we will establish foreign companies in China, Switzerland and Turkey. We have been active in these countries for many years, but we want to penetrate the markets better and exploit the existing potential better,” Salvatore said.

To learn more about Liqui Moly in Australia, visit www.liqui-moly.com.au

SUNCORP RENEWS SUPPORT FOR ACIA

The insurer has extended its original two-year membership agreement with the collision repair advocacy body

Suncorp has renewed its support for the Australian Collision Industry Alliance (ACIA), reinforcing its commitment to addressing the ageing workforce in the collision sphere by promoting the many rewarding industry careers to young people.

Extending its original two-year membership agreement with the ACIA, Suncorp becomes the first insurer to recommit as an industry partner of the organisation.

The ACIA was established to promote the wide range of rewarding careers available in the collision repair sector, with a focus on attracting and retaining skilled workers to ensure the longterm sustainability of the industry.

Its work centres on coordinating stakeholders across the supply chain – including repairers, suppliers, insurers, dealer groups and OEMs – to fund and deliver programs that build awareness and bring new talent into the sector.

Suncorp Executive General Manager Motor Claims Customer, Tim Buckett, said the renewed partnership was an important step forward for the industry.

“Our renewed partnership with ACIA reflects Suncorp’s support for industry initiatives that strengthen future talent, recognising the collision repair sector’s vital role in delivering exceptional customer outcomes,” Tim said.

ACIA Board member Rob Bartlett, Supplyside Group, said the renewed support from Suncorp would play an important role in addressing the growing skills crisis.

“It’s great to see one of Australia’s major insurers continuing to get behind the industry through its commitment to the ACIA,” Rob said.

“Suncorp’s renewed support is a strong endorsement of the alliance and a clear signal of its commitment to the long-term sustainability of the collision repair industry.”

For more information about ACIA, visit www.theacia.com.au

TARIFFS, TRADE WARS, AND THE RISING COST OF PARTS

Three forces are hitting the Australian aftermarket at once – Fifth Quadrant says the businesses that will navigate this best are the ones using data to move early

Fifth Quadrant outlines these three forces as rising tariffs on vehicles and components from key import markets; a global EV investment correction that is disrupting the parts development pipeline; and a wave of Chinese-manufactured vehicles entering the Australian car parc faster than supply infrastructure can keep up.

Each would be manageable in isolation, but together, they are reshaping sourcing, pricing, and planning across the sector.

Rising tariffs, rising input costs

The current US administration has imposed tariffs on vehicles and components from Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Germany.

When an importer’s cost base rises, the options are limited: absorb the increase, pass it through, or reduce range.

Analysis of US dealer listings found that Canadianassembled vehicles rose roughly 10 percent in retail price within seven months of tariffs being imposed.

Australia imports heavily from all four markets, and the flow-on effects are already reaching local supply chains.

Adding to this, the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement is due for review in July 2026. If it is restructured or abandoned, component sourcing across North America shifts, and the aftermarket supply chain that feeds Australian distributors shifts with it.

EV programme uncertainty and parts pipeline risk

But tariffs are only one part of the picture. The global auto industry has absorbed more than $65 billion in EV-related write-downs over the past year. OEMs are cutting programmes, pushing out launch dates, and renegotiating supplier contracts. For the Australian market, models expected in local fleets by 2027 may arrive later, in different specification, or not at all.

This leaves parts manufacturers facing the same uncertainty, committing engineering resources and tooling to platforms that may be delayed, redesigned, or cancelled.

While they can hold back from committing now, the risk is falling behind on product availability for the models that do make it to market.

Chinese brands and the aftermarket readiness gap

As traditional OEMs recalibrate, one group of manufacturers is largely insulated from these headwinds.

Chinese brands sold close to 200,000 new vehicles in Australia in 2025, up 40 percent on the prior year and representing 16 percent of the total market. BYD and Chery more than doubled their volumes year on year, while GWM overtook MG to become the second largest Chinese brand in the market. Despite warranty periods of seven to ten years, many of these vehicles will emerge from OEM service networks by the early 2030s, and the aftermarket needs to be ready.

The challenge here is that the parts supply chains supporting these brands are still developing, and workshop access to service information, diagnostic tools, and replacement parts remains inconsistent. Looking ahead

Ultimately, all of these forces compound each other, creating risk and uncertainty for unprepared manufacturers, distributors, retailers and workshops.

Tariff-driven cost pressure squeezes margin on traditional parts lines. EV programme uncertainty makes it harder to commit capital to nextgeneration platforms. And the fastest-growing vehicle segment in the market is one where aftermarket supply infrastructure is least mature.

The businesses that will navigate this best are the ones using data to move early, mapping their supply chain exposure, pressure-testing their sourcing assumptions, and building the flexibility to pivot as conditions shift. Waiting for clarity is a strategy – it is just not a good one.

Ben Selwyn is Director of Fifth Quadrant, the AAAA’s research partner for the Aftermarket Dashboard and Car Parc Tool.

For more information, visit www.fifthquadrant.com.au or contact ben@fifthquadrant.com.au

VACC SECURES NEW AUTOMOTIVE TRAINING CENTRE IN NORTH MELBOURNE

The centre will enable VACC to deliver a broader range of niche and specialised training

The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) has announced plans to establish a new automotive training and learning centre in North Melbourne, reinforcing its long-term commitment to skills development and workforce capability across Victoria’s automotive industry.

The new centre will be located at 166–168 Abbotsford Street, North Melbourne, a centrally located corner warehouse, office and showroom site just minutes from VACC House and within walking distance of the Errol Street precinct and the now-open Arden Station.

The facility will be refurbished and purpose-fitted to support automotive-specific training, providing flexible learning spaces that can accommodate hands-on, practical instruction for apprentices, technicians and automotive businesses.

Once complete, the centre will enable VACC to deliver a broader range of niche and specialised training that has previously been difficult to run due to the cost and availability of external facilities.

VACC Chief Executive Officer, Peter Jones, said the new training centre represents a significant investment in the future of the automotive industry and its workforce.

“This is a significant and exciting step for VACC and for our members,” Peter said.

“Victoria’s automotive industry is undergoing rapid change – from advanced diagnostics and electrification through to new vehicle technologies and evolving safety requirements.

“Securing a centrally located training facility close to VACC House allows us to expand our training capability and ensure apprentices and automotive businesses have access to high-quality, industryrelevant learning environments.

“As Australia’s largest single employer of automotive apprentices, we take our responsibility to the next generation of technicians seriously. This investment will deliver direct benefits to the hundreds of apprentices we employ and support each year, while strengthening the long-term skills pipeline for the entire industry.

AMR 2026 FAST APPROACHING

The April show will focus on digital solutions and new energy innovations shaping the future of maintenance services

With intelligent technologies and new energy transforming the automotive industry, car owners demand more transparent, high-quality, and efficient maintenance and care.

In response, innovations like remote monitoring, preventative diagnostics, electronic inspections, and automated maintenance are refining procedures, making aftermarket services more efficient, standardised, and digitalised.

By highlighting these new technologies, organisers of the 74th edition of the Auto Maintenance and Repair Expo (AMR) – scheduled for 13 to 15 April 2026 at the Capital International Exhibition and Convention Center, Beijing – state the show enables maintenance workshops to widen their scopes and strengthen their capabilities.

AMR is a key trade show for China’s automotive aftermarket, serving as a gateway for trade,

information exchange, and talent development, helping workshops identify opportunities and connecting these players with resources to enhance value.

This edition will reflect digital and intelligent transformation through smart diagnostics solutions, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle and new energy vehicle (NEV) maintenance, car care, customising, and more.

At the same time, it will seek to create an integrated industry ecosystem through diverse fringe events.

As technological innovation and talent development reshape the aftermarket, collaboration and education are crucial.

The Maintenance and Repair Workshop Series addresses this through interactive sessions emphasising NEVs, digital and intelligent repair and maintenance, sheet metal painting, commercial vehicle maintenance, and used car restorations.

To further support maintenance shops, a range of skills competitions will offer opportunities for upskilling and business expansion.

Notably, the National Vocational Skills Competition (Paint Finishing) will feature dent repairing, paint refinishing, and data restoration.

Meanwhile, the National Creative Film Application Skills Contest will underscore trends driven by

“This facility will give our apprentices the best possible environment to learn, develop their skills and build long-term careers in automotive. It’s an investment not just in infrastructure, but in people – and in the future capability of Australia’s automotive workforce.”

The North Melbourne location has been selected for its strong transport connections and proximity to VACC’s existing headquarters, allowing closer integration between training delivery, member services and industry engagement.

Training is expected to commence in the first half of 2026, following the completion of refurbishment and fit out works.

For more from VACC, visit www.vacc.com.au

the rising popularity of NEVs among younger consumers, creating new opportunities in decoration, renovation, and customisation.

Also responding to market demand, the China Automotive Aftermarket Conference will gather experts and organisations from the global and domestic aftermarket to explore worldwide developments and in turn, foster international cooperation.

Here, consultants from developed markets like Europe and the US will share insights on advanced systems and technologies. The conference will also provide growth opportunities and explore prospects in emerging markets such as Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and more.

The Auto Maintenance and Repair Expo (AMR) is co-organised by China Automotive Maintenance Equipment Industry Association (CAMEIA), China Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association (CAMRA), Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd and China National Machinery Industry International Co Ltd (Sinomachint).

For more information, visit www.amr-china.cn

JOIN THE CLUB THAT WORKS AS HARD AS YOU DO

With the launch of its biggest loyalty initiative yet, the Burson Insiders Club, Burson Auto Parts is giving workshops across Australia a smarter way to turn everyday purchasing into real rewards

Built specifically for hardworking workshop owners, the Burson Insiders Club has been designed to reward the purchases you are already making with Burson Auto Parts.

“Every order of parts, every restock of workshop essentials, every investment in tools and equipment to keeping your customers moving and workshops operating, it all adds up. Now, those orders pay you back!” Burson Auto Parts Group Marketing and Communications Manager, Fiona Gotas, said.

“Unlike complicated rewards programs, the Burson Insiders Club keeps things simple.”

Members earn points on eligible purchases, and those points convert into tangible Rewards Points.

“That means no gimmicks, it is just straightforward value for loyal Burson customers,” says Fiona.

The program is open to all Burson Trade account holders, including customers purchasing through Capricorn accounts.

Registration is quick and easy and once signed up, members can start earning immediately and explore a comprehensive rewards catalogue.

The program offers exciting bonuses and continual opportunities to earn, giving customers something tangible in return for being part of the Burson family.

“There are thousands of reward options spanning from technology, appliances, gift cards, lifestyle products and more,” Fiona explains.

“Whether you want to, reward your team or treat yourself, there’s something to suit every goal.

“Members can also accumulate points over time to unlock even greater rewards.”

Since opening its doors in 1971, Burson has grown alongside the trade, becoming one of the most trusted names in automotive aftermarket nationwide.

Its reputation has been built on decades of genuine partnership with mechanics and workshops across Australia, with relationships that have shaped the business and helped anchor it as a cornerstone of the industry.

“Honouring that loyalty has always been central to the identity of Burson,” Fiona said.

“We take pride in recognising the customers who stand with us every day, offering rewards and

benefits that reflect the value of those long standing connections.

“These meaningful advantages have played a defining role in the success of Burson and have helped the brand remain strong for more than half a century.

“The introduction of the Insider’s Club represents the next step in that commitment, providing workshops with a new way to be acknowledged for their ongoing support, and reinforcing the sense of belonging that has long been part of the Burson experience.

“By choosing Burson, workshops gain more than quality parts, they gain access to a program designed to deliver real value, every time they shop.”

As Burson marks 55 years of service to the automotive industry, the launch of this program arrives at a moment that feels both timely and symbolic.

From selling parts in the back of a car boot in Melbourne to becoming Australia’s leading supplier of parts, tools and equipment to the trade, Burson’s history has been built on one core belief: being the number one trusted trade partner.

The name Burson was created as a combination of the respective names of founders Garry Johnson (the “Son” in Burson) and Ron Burgoine (the “Bur” in Burson.)

From its humble beginnings, the business quickly grew as it expanded its range of products and services.

Today, Burson have more than 1800 team members and over 220 stores across Australia,

building a reputation with mechanics and do-ityourself enthusiasts nationwide.

Burson is treating its anniversary as an opportunity to acknowledge the people behind the industry –the mechanics, workshop owners, suppliers and our team members who have trusted and grown with the company.

In line with this, Burson has launched the “Our Story Is Your Story” campaign, a year-long celebration recognising the people, the trade and the community that have shaped the business since 1971.

Also recently unveiled has been a new 55-Year Anniversary logo, which blends heritage with

modern design, paying tribute to the brand’s origins with keeping the original Burson blue colour palette.

The 55-year milestone celebrations will extend across 2026 with a dynamic program of activity. This will include the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, integrated brand experiences, tradefocused activations, initiatives designed to reward loyalty and deliver greater value for customers, motorsport partnerships, and a special commemorative promotion tied to a much-loved and iconic global brand.

To learn more about the Burson Insiders club and to join, scan the QR code or visit www.burson.com.au/insiders-club

WB TOOLS INTERCHANGEABLE HEAD TORQUE WRENCHES

Ideal for brake, clutch, and driveline applications

In the automotive and mechanical workshop, precision is paramount.

Whether servicing brakes, clutch assemblies, or drivelines, every bolt and fastener plays a critical role in performance, safety, and longevity.

Using the correct torque ensures components operate as intended and prevents costly failures.

Warren and Brown Tools (WB Tools) says this is where its interchangeable head torque wrenches and attachments come into play, delivering both flexibility and unmatched accuracy for professionals in the brake, clutch, and driveline market.

One tool, multiple applications

WB Tools explains that its interchangeable head torque wrenches are designed with versatility at their core.

It states that rather than purchasing multiple torque wrenches for different applications, with its interchangeable head torque wrenches you can rely on a single wrench that adapts to a wide variety of tasks.

The system allows the use of open-end, ring, and ratchet heads, which are available separately, making it easy to customise your wrench for any specific application.

For workshops that demand maximum flexibility, the interchangeable screen micrometer torque wrench sets take versatility even further.

These sets allow the wrench to function as a standard 1/2-inch or 1/4-inch drive tool, with the option to use 10 or 12 dedicated metric open-end interchangeable heads.

From automotive repairs to motorcycle servicing, manufacturing, and even hobby construction, WB Tools says these sets can cover a vast range of torque-critical tasks without the need for multiple dedicated tools.

Accuracy you can rely on

Torque accuracy is not just a matter of convenience, it is essential for safety.

WB Tools states its interchangeable head torque wrenches are engineered for precision and consistency, with an average accuracy of +/- four percent.

It says this ensures that each fastener receives the correct torque, reducing the risk of component damage or failure.

The tools feature a positive setting lock, preventing accidental changes to torque values during use. Additionally, the convex screen magnifies the

torque setting scale, while both metric and imperial conversions are printed directly on the wrench body, making it easier than ever to work in different measurement systems.

Whether you are tightening a brake caliper, clutch pressure plate, or a driveline coupling, WB Tools says you can trust that your torque will be precise, repeatable, and safe.

Designed for professional use

WB Tools’ interchangeable head torque wrenches are built with professional workflows in mind.

The straight-bodied, ambidextrous design allows both left- and right-hand operation, making it easier to work in the confined spaces or awkward angles often encountered when servicing brakes and drivelines.

Durability is another hallmark of these tools. Each wrench is supplied in a heavy-duty plastic carry case, with additional slots for storing and transporting interchangeable heads – this not only protects the tools but ensures your workshop stays organised, keeping all heads within easy reach.

All tools and attachments are manufactured to Australian Standards, meeting or exceeding international benchmarks, with WB Tools stating this guarantees the reliability, performance, and longevity that professional workshops require.

Wide range of heads and attachments

A major advantage of WB Tools’ system is the ability to choose from a wide range of interchangeable heads, tailored to the exact application.

Open-end, ring, and ratchet heads can be purchased individually, allowing workshops to invest only in the heads they need. WB Tools says this makes the system highly cost-effective and reduces unnecessary inventory.

The interchangeable head system also allows the wrench to adapt to multiple fastener types and sizes. For example, when working on brake calipers, a ring or ratchet head may provide better access and control.

Conversely, for clutch assemblies or driveline maintenance, open-end heads offer the versatility required to reach fasteners in confined spaces. Maintaining accuracy and longevity

Routine maintenance is key to keeping your torque wrenches performing at their best.

WB Tools recommends cleaning and lubricating both the wrench and its interchangeable heads regularly.

Storing the tools in the supplied carry case helps prevent damage in demanding workshop environments.

For professional assurance, calibration services are available to ensure your torque wrenches remain within the specified +/- four percent accuracy range.

WB Tools says this is especially important for highstress applications like brake and clutch work, where precise torque values are critical for safety.

Applications in brake, clutch, and driveline work

WB Tools says the versatility of its interchangeable head torque wrenches makes them particularly valuable for mechanics working on:

• Brake systems: from caliper bolts to mounting brackets, correct torque ensures consistent braking performance and safety.

• Clutch assemblies: precision torque prevents damage to pressure plates, flywheels, and related driveline components.

• Drivelines: from universal joints to drive shafts, accurate torque prevents vibration, wear, and failure.

With the ability to switch heads quickly and precisely, mechanics can move from task to task without interruption, improving efficiency and productivity in the workshop.

A trusted provider

For over a century, Warren and Brown Tools says it has been a trusted provider of high-quality hand tools, industrial equipment, and garage essentials across Australia.

Each interchangeable head torque wrench is manufactured to strict standards, ensuring

durability, precision, and professional-grade performance.

Whether you are expanding your torque wrench collection, servicing a fleet of vehicles, or tackling high-performance driveline applications, WB Tools’ says its interchangeable head torque wrenches provide the accuracy, flexibility, and reliability your workshop needs.

In Brake, Clutch, and Driveline work, precision isn’t optional, it is critical. WB Tools says its interchangeable head torque wrenches and attachments give your workshop the flexibility of multiple tools in one, the confidence of accurate torque every time, and the durability to handle the toughest jobs.

WB Tools invites you to “upgrade your toolbox today and tackle every torque-critical task with ease,” and offers a special offer: use code AAAM to receive 10 percent off.

To explore the full range, go to www.wbtools.com.au

ADRAD ENHANCED DESIGN EGR COOLER

ADRAD says its improvements offer durability and longevity compared to the original equipment design

Australian aftermarket parts supplier ADRAD is pleased to offer the market its enhanced EGR Cooler for Ford Ranger PJ/PK and Mazda BT-50 UN.

On the original unit, the curved hot-side exhaust inlet pipe is prone to stress due to thermal expansion and vibration.

The junction of this inlet pipe with the body of the EGR cooler has been known to crack from fatigue at the joint.

ADRAD says its revised design of this EGR cooler features a flexible bellows inlet pipe to better absorb vibration and heat, making the unit much more durable.

The exhaust outlet neck on the same OE part was similarly found to be an area prone to failure with cracking due to vibration, says ADRAD.

Its product development team added welded metal gussets to support the outlet pipe to increase strength and reduce movement, thus eliminating this weakness.

Ultimately, ADRAD says both of these design enhancements serve to dramatically improve durability and longevity compared to the original equipment design.

From engine cooling, air conditioning, electrical and more – even gas struts – ADRAD says its wide variety of quality aftermarket parts deliver affordable quality, all backed by a national warranty.

ADRAD’s range of aftermarket EGR coolers and values includes more than 70 parts and features brands including ADRAD, Delphi, DENSO OE, Mahle, and Valeo.

These products are stocked nationally and are available online from Radshop and Natrad Trade websites or you can call ADRAD on 1800 882 043 to with the customer service team. For more from ADRAD, visit www.adrad.com.au

UNDERSTANDING MAGNERIDE AND ITS IMPACT ON TODAY’S WORKSHOPS

In this article, Arnott Suspension takes a look at MagneRide systems

MagneRide has become increasingly common across Australia’s premium and performance segments, appearing in late model GM imports, European SUVs, and high-end sports cars.

As these vehicles age into the independent sector, workshops are encountering MagneRide systems more often and facing new diagnostic and repair considerations.

Unlike valve-based dampers, MagneRide uses magnetism to control damping.

Inside each strut is magnetorheological (MR) fluid containing millions of microscopic iron and clay particles suspended in oil.

When magnetised, the damper’s internal electromagnet aligns these particles into chainlike structures, thickening the fluid.

The stronger the magnetic field, the firmer the damping.

Modern systems adjust more than 1,000 times per second, creating true continuously variable damping without mechanical valve movement.

The MR Fluid challenge

MR fluid is highly advanced, but it has drawbacks. The chemicals that keep the iron and clay particles suspended are abrasive and contribute to seal degradation over time.

Once seals wear, MR fluid leaks past the piston rod and the system begins to fail.

Loss of fluid results in soft, unstable damping; chemical breakdown can cause particle separation above and below the piston, producing an extremely harsh, immovable ride.

In Australia, where vehicles see rougher regional roads and heavier towing, OE MagneRide dampers often fail in under five years.

This has opened the door to aftermarket replacements, along with a wave of low-cost imported struts that may use inferior seals and MR fluid blends.

Some of these units fail in as little as six months, creating customer callbacks and eroding workshop trust.

Arnott’s approach to MagneRide

To avoid the durability pitfalls common in lowquality units, Arnott uses genuine OE MagneRide dampers as the foundation for its replacement products.

Arnott explains that MagneRide components depend on precisely engineered electromagnet coils, MR fluid chemistry, and piston geometry,

elements that cannot be reliably reverse engineered.

For select applications, Arnott integrates these OE dampers into a complete coil-over assembly with a premium coil spring, upper mount, and jounce bumper (also known as bump stop).

This bolt-in, plug-and-play design eliminates the need for a spring compressor and provides workshops with a convenient, OE-correct solution that the vehicle manufacturer does not offer.

Diagnosis and repair considerations

With the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme now in effect, Australian workshops have greater access to calibration and diagnostic data, critical for servicing MagneRide systems.

Common checks include verifying ECU commanded damping levels, performing resistance tests on the electromagnet coil (typically one to three ohms, per General Motors service documentation), and inspecting the piston rod for MR fluid leakage.

After installation, some vehicles require a damper relearn procedure to recalibrate baseline performance.

Access to accurate service data helps independent workshops complete these steps confidently without relying solely on dealership tools.

What this means for Australian workshops

As the national vehicle parc continues shifting toward imported luxury and performance platforms, Arnott says MagneRide will become even more prevalent in the aftermarket.

Understanding the technology, recognising MR fluid failure patterns, and selecting reliable replacement components are essential for maintaining ride quality and customer safety. With OE based dampers, enhanced coil over assemblies, and improved access to service information through right to repair legislation, Australian workshops are well positioned to deliver high quality repairs and provide customers with trusted alternatives to dealership-only service. For more information, visit www.arnottinc.com

SOLUTIONS BUILT FOR EVERY UTE

HSP says it is ready for what’s next

HSP offers a range of products designed, engineered, and manufactured in Australia, focused on seamless integration with each Ute’s unique requirements.

“At HSP, we’ve always believed that when it comes to utes, there’s no such thing as ‘one size fits all,’” HSP Export and Fleet Manager, Antara Rao, said.

“Every driver is different. Every job demands something unique. And every ute rolling off the production line carries its own personality, purpose and potential.

“That’s why our approach is simple: if it is a ute, we build for it.”

From industry-leaders like the performancedriven Ford Ranger or the Toyota Hilux, to full-size American icons such as the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado, HSP says it understands what makes these machines tick.

“These utes combine power, refinement and serious capability, and they deserve accessories that match that standard,” Antara said.

“But the market is evolving, and so are we.”

With the arrival of newer imported models like the

JAC T9, BYD Shark and Foton Tunland, Australian drivers have more choice than ever.

“These vehicles are carving out their own space, delivering value, practicality and modern features for tradies, fleet managers and everyday adventurers alike,” Antara said.

“And like the established names, they deserve solutions built specifically for them – not generic adaptations.

“That’s where HSP stands apart. We design, engineer and manufacture all our core products in Australia, ensuring seamless integration with each vehicle’s styling, tub dimensions and functionality.”

The company’s in-house R&D team works with new releases by digitally scanning tubs and refining fitment to help ensure precise alignment and an OE-approved, factory-quality finish.

“Our Electric Roll R Cover delivers security, weather protection and everyday convenience,” Antara said.

“Our tray slides improve safety and accessibility. Our ladder racks provide strength without compromising style – all engineered for durability and real-world performance.

“Today, our Roll Cover is available for almost every major ute on the Australian market, and compatibility continues to expand.

“With new fitments already in development and more underway right now, our coverage grows month by month.”

With a network of more than 800 authorised stockists, fitters, and dealerships nationwide, HSP accessories are supported across Australia.

“No matter the badge on the grille, chances are we already have you covered. And if we don’t yet — we’re working on it,” Antara said.

For more from HSP, visit www.hsputelids.com

POWERING MODERN AND LEGACY VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY

Why proven performance matters more than ever in 2026

As Australia’s automotive landscape continues to evolve, workshops are being asked to service a broader mix of vehicles compared to any other time in our industry’s history.

Advanced modern vehicles sit alongside ageing but essential fleets, and both demand reliable preventative maintenance solutions that today’s modern technicians can trust.

It’s a challenge the aftermarket knows well, and one the founders of Pro Service Solutions have been committed to addressing since 1976.

For nearly five decades, Pro Service Solutions explains its focus has remained unchanged: deliver specialised products built on proven performance, not marketing hype.

In an era where workshops are under increasing pressure to justify every recommendation, databacked results and real-world validation have become an essential part of the brand’s message.

That’s why Pro Service Solutions’ development process centres on hands-on demonstrations, sideby-side comparisons, and extensive field testing across Australia’s diverse operating conditions.

When a technician reaches for one of Pro Service Solutions’ products, the company says they know exactly what outcome to expect.

The Pro Service Solutions portfolio reflects the needs of today’s aftermarket:

• Pro Auto – service focused products for passenger vehicles, 4WDs, light commercials, marine engines and motorcycles, packaged in efficient 325ml bottles.

• Pro Industrial – service focused products for trucks, buses, agricultural machinery, mining equipment and marine applications, supplied in practical 1L bottles.

• Pro Workshop – service program-based solutions applied by trained technicians to deliver measurable performance and longevity benefits.

• Pro Consumables – premium workshop essentials offering superior usability and performance compared to everyday formulations.

Looking ahead, 2026 marks a significant growth phase for Pro Service Solutions as it expands its

specialty chemical offering and strengthens its national footprint.

The company states its commitment to innovation, technical support, and data-driven performance ensures workshops can confidently recommend its products, “protecting their customers’ investments and reinforcing the professionalism of Australia’s aftermarket.”

For more information, visit www.proservicesolutions.com.au

QUALELEC CELEBRATES 35 YEARS

The Auto and Marine Electrical Supplies company marks 35 years of business in March

From humble beginnings on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, selling cable ties and crimp terminals from the back of a van, Qualelec Auto and Marine Electrical Supplies says it has grown into a strong, family owned enterprise proudly supplying customers nationwide.

Over the decades, it has partnered with many of the industry’s leading importers, including Utilux, Quikcrimp, LED Autolamps, Tungsram, Cole Hersee, Britax, Deutsch, Narva, Whitevision, and many more.

Fifteen years ago, the company launched its own brand, QLED. Today, QLED products are available Australia wide through a trusted network of family based distributors.

Qualelec says it began with lighting solutions for the RV manufacturing sector, later expanding into high quality, proven emergency lighting products.

It states every model in the current range has stood the test of time across diverse industries, with quality never compromised.

Alongside lighting, Qualelec offers a comprehensive selection of core auto electrical consumables, including terminals, a wide range of fuses and fuse holders, quality circuit breakers, relay distribution boxes, and everyday workshop essentials.

The business states it takes great pride in delivering exceptional service, deep product knowledge, and reliable quality, stating, “in an industry that increasingly relies on dependable suppliers, Qualelec and QLED remain committed to leading the way.”

For more information, please contact Qualelec on 07 5453 4393 or visit www.qled.com.au

SMALL PARTS, BIG CONSEQUENCES

In this article, Transgold discusses the evolving importance of suspension and mounts

Rubber components are no longer peripheral consumables, they are central to ride quality, drivetrain integrity and customer satisfaction.

As Australia’s vehicle parc continues to diversify in age, origin and powertrain configuration, the market for rubber suspension components, transmission kits and engine mounts is evolving in ways workshops cannot afford to ignore.

Transgold says it has supplied the Australian aftermarket with dedicated coverage across these categories for decades, and the trajectory is clear: broader vehicle coverage, tighter tolerances, and increasing demand for complete repair solutions. Suspension bushes and control arm components, once replaced reactively, are now part of proactive maintenance conversations.

Customers are more sensitive to NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) concerns, and even minor degradation in rubber can translate to noticeable steering wander, uneven tyre wear, or driveline shunt.

Transgold says workshops that understand this are identifying wear earlier and bundling bush

replacement into suspension overhauls rather than treating them as isolated fixes.

Engine mounts and transmission mounts are under similar pressure.

Modern petrol and diesel engines deliver higher torque outputs across wider RPM ranges, while dual-clutch and advanced automatic transmissions introduce new load dynamics.

Mount failure today doesn’t just mean vibration; it can compromise sensor readings, driveline alignment, and long-term component reliability.

Access to comprehensive part numbers across passenger, 4WD, and light commercial applications is therefore critical.

Transgold states its catalogue depth in engine mounts and transmission kits reflects the increasing need for coverage that spans both legacy vehicles and late-model platforms entering independent workshops.

Another notable shift is the preference for kitbased solutions.

Professional repairers are seeking efficiency with fewer part orders, reduced comeback risk, and

confidence that all associated wear components are addressed in a single job.

Transgold explains that complete suspension and transmission kits streamline procurement and improve labour planning, particularly when turnaround time directly impacts workshop profitability.

Looking forward, hybridisation and electrification will further reshape demand.

While EVs eliminate certain drivetrain components, they heighten NVH expectations and shift load characteristics through suspension and mounting systems.

For more from Transgold, visit www.transgold.com.au

PRODUCTS

BILSTEIN B8 TERRASPORT

Turning crossover models into true all-rounders

The strong growth of the outdoor market in recent years has been driven mainly by young and leisureoriented people.

This trend is also reflected in the choice of vehicle: crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) are very popular in this customer segment.

They usually offer enough space for leisure equipment, are easier on the budget than the large SUVs, and are conditionally suitable for off-road use.

In order to improve the popular crossover models for off-road use, Bilstein says it has developed a special upgrade for CUVs: the Bilstein B8 TerraSport.

It says the shock absorber, developed specially for these vehicles, provides more ground clearance and thus significantly improved off-road capability.

Depending on the application, the Bilstein B8 TerraSport lifts the CUV by one to two inches.

With this additional ground clearance, Bilstein says even rough terrain in the outback is no longer a problem, meaning previously inaccessible destinations can now be reached.

Further, Bilstein says this advantage is not achieved at the expense of poorer road performance,

stating it has adjusted the characteristics of the B8 TerraSport so that there is no rocking motion despite the higher centre of gravity.

This is possible thanks to a patented degressive valve setting which reacts immediately to changing surface conditions and adjusts the damping accordingly, seeing the wheels maintain optimal contact with the ground on asphalt as well as under off-road conditions.

Bilstein says the Crosstrek models from 4WD specialist Subaru, which are particularly popular in this segment, offer significantly improved steering and braking performance when equipped with the B8 TerraSport. The suspension does not bottom out and the damping is pleasantly firm when driving fast on the road.

Installation is said to be easy, as the Bilstein B8 TerraSport can be mounted on the factory fitted coil springs. Therefore, no additional lift springs are needed for fans of the outdoors to benefit from the off-road features.

Thus, Bilstein says the price to performance ratio is perfectly suited to the young target group – an

to recommend CUV drivers to convert to Bilstein B8 TerraSport.

In any case, Bilstein says there is great additional sales potential for workshops, as the Bilstein B8 TerraSport range is available for many popular CUVs, such as Subaru Crosstrek/Subaru XV Crosstrek, Subaru Forester, Subaru Outback, and Toyota RAV4.

Like all Bilstein products, Bilstein says its B8 TerraSport shock absorbers are specifically tested and adjusted for each vehicle model; always with the optimum road performance in mind. For more information, visit www.bilstein.com

PRODUCTS

SMARTER POWER, FASTER INSTALLS

REDWorks removes the guesswork from dual battery

As customers demand more capable power systems, workshops are facing increasingly complex wiring, longer installation times, and more product integration issues.

Every vehicle build is different, with each customer’s power needs varying by setup and application.

This often requires a unique configuration of components that can quickly turn a straightforward job into hours of labour and testing.

For busy workshops, this complexity affects turnaround times, margins, and consistency across installations.

REDARC’s REDWorks Power Panels are designed to take the time and complexity out of installations.

Each prewired plug and play REDWorks panel combines charging, monitoring, and control seamlessly in one compact panel.

systems

Built tough in Australia and tested for extreme conditions, these complete systems arrive ready to mount, giving workshops a faster, more consistent way to deliver reliable power solutions.

REDWorks delivers flexible solutions to suit everything from weekend setups to advanced touring systems.

Each REDWorks panel is powder-coated and features DC charging, a solar regulator, and genuine Anderson connections.

Compact and cleanly designed, REDWorks also frees up valuable space for other equipment while maintaining a professional finish.

The REDWorks range is available in three configurations to suit different vehicle types and customer needs.

The Scout Panels, available in 25-, 40- and 50amp variants, offers customers a compact dual battery system with integrated monitoring.

Designed for weekend adventurers who want reliable power without the complexity, the Scout Panels are ideal for a fridge and lights for a no fuss solution.

For customers who power more gear, the Nomad panels provide customers power that grows with them, perfect for the mobile trades person.

Whether they are running lights, compressors or charging batteries, Nomad gives them more power at the worksite or the campsite, without complicating the install.

FLASHLUBE CATCH CAN PRO

Keep your engine safe from harmful oil mist

Automotive emission regulations require oil mist and fumes to be recirculated back into the engine, rather than released into the atmosphere. Over time, this can contribute to oil residue and carbon build-up around the EGR valve, inlet manifold, turbo bearings and intercooler, leading to reduced power and efficiency, and potentially costly damage.

In diesel applications, where fuel naturally burns dirtier, these effects can be even more prominent.

The Flashlube Catch Can Pro is a premium oilair separator designed to help protect modern engines by filtering out damaging oil mist and condensation from the blow back by fumes entering the air intake manifold.

By delivering highly efficient air-oil separation, it helps reduce carbon build-up in the intake system, prevent intercooler contamination and slow turbo bearing corrosion – supporting cleaner operation and long-term reliability.

Compact in size, Flashlube explains the Catch Can Pro features unique integrated safety valves to ensure installation does not over-pressurise the engine.

A 19mm inlet and outlet allows unrestricted airflow, while a built-in safety system helps prevent blockages.

The adjustable top cap can be rotated to suit different port directions during installation, and the housing is manufactured from high-grade, OEspec heat-resistant material for durability in harsh engine bay environments.

Inside the unit, a dedicated filter element captures oil mist and condensation before it can reach the inlet manifold.

For optimum performance, the filter element is recommended to be replaced every 20,000 km, depending on driving conditions.

A simple drain tap allows quick draining, cleaning and inspection, with accumulated residue typically drained every 2,000 km.

For those who also want start battery maintenance, Scout50 and Nomad50 both provide customers with Start Battery Charging and Start Battery Recovery features.

At the top of the range, Pioneer50 gives customers complete control over their setup, integrating advanced monitoring and automation.

Featuring a TVMS Rogue, customers can program exactly how they want to control their system through programmable, easy-to-understand icons, all controllable through the RedVision app via the included RedVision Display.

With start battery maintenance, digital fusing and a high 50-amp charge rate on board, the Pioneer is perfect for customers who enjoy extended adventures. REDARC says its REDWorks allows installers to focus on what matters most, delivering reliable power solutions that work first time, every time, stating, “it is a smarter, faster way to power work and play, all backed by Australian made quality and REDARC’s industry leading support.”

For more information, visit www.redarcelectronics.com/au/redworks

Fitting kits are available for the award-winning Flashlube Catch Can Pro and include designprotected hoses and brackets engineered to be vehicle-specific, along with all ties and clamps required for a complete, secure installation.

For more information, visit www.flashlube.com

LEADING AFTERMARKET FILTERS

UFI Filters says it takes a structured global approach to the aftermarket

Founded in 1971, UFI Filters explains it is a global leader in filtration technology and thermal management.

It serves a wide range of sectors – from automotive, aerospace and marine to specialised industrial and customised hydraulic applications.

Renowned for its innovation, UFI products and know-how are found in all kinds of vehicles, from Ferrari and other top F1 teams, to the European ExoMars spacecraft.

UFI Filters explains that it manages its aftermarket business with a clearly defined global strategy, integrating product development, logistics, marketing and quality control to ensure alignment with Original Equipment (OE) standards.

The company operates 19 Aftermarket sales offices across Europe, China, India, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East and Oceania, giving it a broad commercial footprint.

Its products are distributed in more than 70 countries through partnerships with major distributors.

The UFI passenger car, light commercial vehicle and motorcycle catalogue includes more than 2,400 part numbers whereas the Heavy Duty aftermarket range now includes more than 1,200 products, covering on-road applications (trucks and buses), off-road machinery (agricultural and construction equipment) and hydraulic systems.

Product development is supported by UFI’s Innovation Centres in Italy, China and India, equipped with testing systems capable of reproducing

real operating conditions, dedicated pilot production areas, and advanced chemical physical analysis technologies.

Collaboration with international universities further contributes to the development of new filtration media.

This infrastructure enables the company to engineer filter materials tailored to specific customer requirements and to respond to emerging filtration trends.

Through its FormulaUFI materials – six families of internally developed media – the company conducts its own research and production of filter materials, focusing on efficiency, durability and contaminant holding capacity.

With a global organisation, ongoing investment in filtration research, and a structured approach to supporting distributors, UFI Filters says it positions its aftermarket offering to meet the needs of diverse markets, including Australia’s demanding on and off road operating conditions.

For more information, visit www.ufifilters.com or www.ufi-aftermarket.com/eu

PRODUCTS

PENRITE’S WORKSHOP TOP TEN

In this article, Penrite gives details of the top ten Penrite products Australian workshops rely on

Today’s workshops are operating in a high-pressure environment with tighter service intervals, more complex drivetrains, and customers expecting OEM level performance every time.

The lubricants and fluids you choose are no longer just consumables, they are critical to protecting engines, transmissions, and customer trust.

“That’s why Australian workshops continue to back Penrite, a proudly Australian owned and trusted brand since 1926, delivering complete workshop solutions that cover the majority of vehicles on the road,” Penrite Chief Executive Officer, Toby Dymond, said.

“Penrite’s Top 10 most used workshop products represent the core of what mechanics need every day, across engine oils, transmission fluids, gear oils, and coolants.

“For modern petrol and diesel vehicles, the Penrite Pro Workshop range of products, that are exclusive to the trade, provide the workshop with the highest quality products that enable them to provide their customers with the highest levels of engine protection, fuel economy retention, emission compliance and drain intervals that meets with OEM requirements.”

PRO 5 5W-30 Full Synthetic engine oil delivers enhanced LSPI protection and improved wear performance, especially in idle stop engines.

For workshops servicing older fleets or high load applications, PRO EXTRA 10W-40 Semi Synthetic engine oil includes a full zinc anti-wear additive package, reducing turbocharger deposits, and stronger oxidation control.

For extended drain and European performance requirements, EDS 5W-30 Full Synthetic engine oil provides complete engine protection, improved durability, and better fuel economy.

Driveline servicing is equally critical, and Penrite delivers proven solutions with Gear Oil 80W-90, suited for hypoid and limited slip differentials with anti-shudder technology; PRO Gear GL-5 75W85, a premium PAO ester synthetic designed for late model low viscosity differential requirements; and Trans Gear 75W-90, a full synthetic gear oil offering smooth shift feel, long drain performance, and reduced harmful deposits.

For automatic transmissions, Penrite’s workshop staples include ATF LV, designed for modern low

viscosity systems with 2.5 times smoother shift performance; and ATF FS, delivering up to five times smoother shift durability while preventing clutch shudder and extending transmission life.

Cooling system reliability meanwhile is covered with OEM approved chemistry with Penrite’s Red OEM Coolant Concentrate, featuring genuine Glysantin G40 OEM licensed Si-OA, and the Green OEM Coolant Concentrate, based on genuine Glysantin G48 OEM licensed hybrid technology, offering long life corrosion protection. Both feature up to 12-year or 800,000km drain intervals.

“These are the products workshops trust because they perform, protect warranties, and are engineered for Australian conditions,” Toby said.

“To unlock access to these high demand workshop fluids and more, Penrite encourages workshops to open a Penrite Trade Account, giving you streamlined supply, expert technical support, and the backing of a century of lubricant leadership.

“To position your workshop for the next generation of servicing, go to our website.”

For more information, visit info.penriteoil.com.au/trade

PEDDERS LOAD SOLUTIONS FOR LIGHT COMMERCIAL VANS

These vans play a critical role across trade, fleet and service industries, often at maximum payload capacity

As factory suspension systems are rarely designed for constant loads or accessory fitment, Pedders Suspension and Brakes explains it has developed purpose engineered load solutions for a range of popular vans.

Applications include for the Toyota HiAce, Volkswagen Transporter, and Ford Transit Custom, boosting capability while offering improved ride characteristics.

Pedders says its load solutions combine heavy duty coil springs, Foam Cell shock absorbers, and in some models, optional air suspension systems to deliver consistent performance under constant payloads.

Coil springs are engineered for specific load ratings, allowing vehicles to maintain correct ride height while supporting payloads ranging from light commercial use through to heavy, constant loads. Further, the company explains that the Pedders Rear Load Solutions expertly match springs

and shocks to deliver balanced load support, durability and ride quality.

For select applications, full air suspension systems allow additional adjustability, helping maintain optimal ride height across varying load conditions.

For Toyota HiAce operators, Pedders also offers fully engineered GVM Upgrade Kits that deliver a significant payload boost – up to 3950kg for both SWB and LWB versions – providing a compliant solution to increase legal load capacity while improving handling and safety.

These kits are also designed to support commercial demands while retaining daily driveability.

With decades of suspension expertise, Australian engineering knowledge and a nationwide specialist network, Pedders says it is a trusted leader in light commercial suspension solutions. By focusing on vehicle-specific design, real-world

testing and professional installation, Pedders says it helps businesses carry more, drive safer and extend the working life of their vans, every day.

For more information, visit www.pedders.com.au

KELPRO SHOCKS AND STRUTS

Last year, GPC was excited to launch its range of all-new Kelpro Shocks and Struts

Complementing the ever-growing Kelpro suite of aftermarket automotive products within GPC, covering front end steering, brake and clutch hydraulics, engine mounts, rubber bushes, and seals to name a few, GPC says the introduction of Kelpro Shocks and Struts was a natural progression in the product portfolio.

GPC invites you to take control of the road with Kelpro Shocks and Struts, stating they are engineered to deliver superior comfort, durability, and control.

Now with comprehensive application coverage across most makes, models, and years, GPC says Kelpro offers an advanced replacement for the incumbent Repco range, bringing you cutting-edge technology designed for all driving conditions.

Advanced technology for superior ride quality

GPC explains that these Kelpro Shocks and Struts are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications, ensuring that every component delivers like-for-like quality with enhanced performance, a perfect fit, and smooth installation for any make or model. Key features and benefits include:

• Anti-Foaming Oil – prevents foam and cavitation,

maintaining oil effectiveness and ensuring the shock absorber delivers consistent damping. Experience a smoother, more stable ride that maintains performance over time and under rough conditions.

• Nitrogen Gas charged – stabilises pressure and prevents oil degradation. With nitrogen gas, GPC says your shocks maintain consistent damping, especially in demanding driving conditions, ensuring both comfort and control in any terrain.

• Dual Stack Deflective Disc Technology –delivering enhanced control for all road conditions. Whether you’re navigating city streets or rough off-road terrain, the dual stack design provides balanced damping and reduced harshness, making every ride smoother and more adaptable.

• Precision 5140 Chrome Piston Rod – engineered for strength and longevity, the chrome-plated 5140 rod resists corrosion, minimises friction, and reduces wear, ensuring a longer lifespan and smooth operation under even the toughest conditions.

• Reinforced Multi-Lip Seal – built for extreme

durability, the multi-lip seal keeps the gas in, blocks contaminants out, and improves sealing efficiency, offering longer service intervals and reducing the risk of leaks.

• Built-in accessories for hassle-free installation – each Kelpro strut comes ready to install with essential accessories, including a dust cover, protection kit, and bump stop, making it easier than ever to get your vehicle back on the road.

• Performance you can rely on – every Kelpro Shock and Strut is backed by a robust three-year or 100,000 km warranty, giving you confidence in quality and a product that’s built to last.

Kelpro Shocks and Struts are available now at Repco and NAPA stores nationwide.

For more information, visit www.gpcasiapac.com

STORAGE TRANSFORMED

Milwaukee Tool introduces the Packout Rack Kit

Milwaukee says it continues to transform jobsite organisation and productivity with the introduction of its new Packout Rack Kit.

Designed to eliminate common vehicle storage frustrations such as disorganisation, wasted space, and tool movement during transit, this solution is said to offer a smarter, more secure way to access and store tools and materials.

For use in vans, Conex boxes, enclosed trailers, and shop walls, Milwaukee says the Packout Rack Kit allows professionals to take control of their storage, whether on the jobsite, in the shop, or in transit.

“Through our research in the field, we identified the most common frustrations professionals face with storage, and set out to solve them,” Milwaukee Product Manager – Storage, George Mavrogiannis, said.

“The Packout Rack Kit boosts productivity by reducing the time spent locating, sorting, and organising tools, resulting in faster restocks and van changeovers, ultimately saving users both time and money.”

Milwaukee says the Packout Rack Kit is designed to deliver unmatched accessibility and organisation for professionals who demand efficiency on the jobsite.

By reducing the time spent shuffling through vans for materials and tools, it says users can complete more jobs and attend more calls.

The sliding drawers allow users to quickly retrieve tools and materials, decreasing time spent unstacking.

With a fully customisable drawer layout, users can adjust the height of each drawer to connect any Packout components directly onto the drawers, with this level of flexibility making it easy to build a storage solution that evolves with the job.

Scalability is another key advantage of the Packout Rack Kit.

This solution can be stacked up to three racks high and expanded across the wall, making it easy to grow alongside evolving jobsite demands.

To further enhance versatility, the rack features adjustable leg heights to fit above wheel wells and accommodate rolling tool boxes.

For added convenience, two compact mounting plates can be fastened to the sides of the rack, offering additional storage for frequently used tools and accessories.

Built to withstand the toughest conditions, the Packout Rack Kit features a durable steel body and a 22.7kg drawer capacity in transit.

By helping users maximise space, stay organised, and reduce downtime, Milwaukee says the Packout Rack Kit is “more than just a storage upgrade, it is a game-changing solution for professionals who demand efficiency and durability from their storage solutions.”

For a full list of product features and specifications, visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au

PRODUCTS

LIFTING STANDARDS

When it comes to lifts, Logicar wants you to buy once, buy right

As someone who has spent the last 10 years sourcing car lifts from overseas, walking factory floors and inspecting production lines, Logicar Chief Executive Officer, Colette Kirby, says manufacturing environments differ greatly, from sophisticated environments to more modest operations.

“What may look identical in a brochure can be vastly different in steel quality, weld integrity, hydraulics, and overall safety engineering,” Colette said.

Because of this, Colette says that when purchasing a car lift, buyers need to look beyond price and lifting capacity.

“Yes, understanding whether you need a two-post, four-post or scissor lift, and ensuring the rated capacity suits the vehicles you service, is essential,” Colette said.

“But the real protection comes from working with reputable brands aligned with longstanding Australian companies.

“Established distributors don’t just import containers; they inspect factories, build long-term trusted relationships, hold spare parts locally, and stand behind their warranty obligations.”

Equally critical in Australia is ensuring your

hoist carries the appropriate WorkSafe design registration.

This confirms the equipment design has been formally assessed against Australian safety standards.

“Without it, you’re not only risking non-compliance, but also the safety of your technicians and the reputation of your business,” Colette said.

“A car lift is one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll own. Choosing and maintaining the right one requires careful consideration.

“Match the rated load capacity with the vehicles you service, don’t overspend on capacity you’ll never need, and look for ease of maintenance, accessible lubrication points, minimal downtime when replacing wear parts, and reliable local support.

“Most importantly, purchase from companies that won’t leave you waiting six months for installation, service, or critical repairs.”

Once installed, maintenance becomes the final safeguard.

“Daily visual inspections, checking cables and anchors, monitoring hydraulic systems, and

scheduling professional servicing are nonnegotiable,” Colette said.

“Even the best-built lift requires care, just like the cars you’re servicing.

“For 25 years, Logicar has delivered hero brands like Heshbon, Molnar, Hofmann and now exclusive to Logicar ‘Excell Lifts,’ accompanied with personal and committed support, beyond the sale.”

For more information, call the team at Logicar on 1300 322 782.

PICO PQ326

A standalone ‘Milliohm’ meter, independent from an oscilloscope and with independent software

Mount Auto Equip Services explains that the Pico PQ326 is a tool which features precise accessories such as the Kelvin clamps and live temperature compensated milliohm readings to bring far greater detail and precision than standard multi-meters. Alongside the proprietary, it allows for graph-based analysis and the ability to view balancing and deviations of the components.

This enhanced detail makes it an essential tool for technicians to find tears, inefficiencies, damage, and failures in electric vehicle drivetrains and within general automotive components such as fuel pumps, A/C motors, egr valves and more.

Electric driven vehicles use three-phase motors and the ability to test resistance between phases is crucial to seeing the health of a motor with Realtime Temperature calculation.

The Pico Milliohm tester tests all three phases of a motor generator at once in under a minute, drastically lowering diagnostic time, and can then print, save and send these software results.

The resistance measurement graphed overtime is far more precise and cuts diagnosis time down compared to a standard multi-meter.

Particularly, Phase balancing is an essential diagnostic test as deviations beyond one percent or beyond manufactured specifications can potentially damage components.

These variants in the circuit draws greater amperage, generating mass heat and friction and eventually can lead to component failure.

With a graphical display, this information is visible, as changes under time periods and varying conditions can project these symptoms. This makes a Milliohm tester the tool to accurately diagnose these drivetrains, says Mount Auto Equip Services.

Beyond the specialised application for Electric drivetrains, the Pico Milliohm tester can find accurate failures in all other general electrical wiring such as high speed Can networks.

The precise data packets sent from modules are sensitive and easily corrupted from loose terminals, weak connections, minor tears/fraying and broken insulation which can be detected by graphing resistance over time.

The varying resistance across screwing bolts that are torqued to specification, can be measured easily with the quality Pico Milliohm tester.

When high voltage current flow passes through these components, incorrect torque and poor contact will generate heat, potentially damaging the related components.

Using this data displayed graphically, then allows for testing underneath time periods and vibrational conditions and allows the technician to test weld contacts, grounding points, and other electrical components with far greater detail.

Compared to a standard Multi-meter, Mount Auto Equip Services says the software and the hardware of the Pico milliohm tester allows for technicians to extract and record quality data and more accurately diagnose electrical symptoms.

For more information, contact Mount Auto Equip Services on 02 9905 8055, via email at sales@maeservices.com.au or visit www.autoequipment.com.au

TBM AUTOPARTS PRODUCTS

The company offers two core product categories: gas-charged lift supports, and TPMS solutions

TBM Autoparts says it is an emerging name in the automotive aftermarket, delivering high quality products sourced from leading international manufacturers.

“Backed by a team with more than 75 years of combined experience in the automotive parts and service industry, we are committed to providing reliable, tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of vehicle owners, workshops, and service providers,” TBM Autoparts Director, Gideon Segal, said.

“At TBM Autoparts, we combine global sourcing capabilities with local industry knowledge to deliver trusted aftermarket solutions that keep vehicles performing at their best.”

Currently, TBM Autoparts offers two core product categories.

Its gas charged lift supports for bonnets, boots, and hatches cover a wide range of vehicle-specific and universal applications.

These lift supports are said to provide smooth lifting, secure positioning and gentle closing of vehicle parts.

Gideon says they are engineered to offer optimal lifting force, reliability and longevity; are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications; and are made from durable materials.

TBM Autoparts also offers Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) solutions, including a tyre pressure scan tool and universal programmable TPMS sensors.

The TBM range of sensors is said to cover 99 percent of vehicles equipped with direct TPMS from factory.

Gideon says these direct TPMS sensors with rubber valves are battery operated and offer a lifespan of five-plus years.

The scan tool activates all 315Mhz and 433Mhz

tyre pressure sensors and provides real time viewing of original tyre pressure sensor data including ID, temperature, tyre pressure, and battery status.

TBM explains it supports four programming methods, and reads, copies, and writes sensor ID values and other data. It is also updateable via WiFi.

“The TBM Autoparts range of gas charged struts will continue to expand with increased vehicle coverage, and we will keep exploring new product opportunities that meet or exceed customer needs,” Gideon said.

“TBM Autoparts is committed to delivering reliable aftermarket solutions that enhance safety, performance, and convenience.”

For more information, visit www.tbmautoparts.com.au

PRODUCTS

NEW FROM AEROFLOW

A range of new products have been introduced to the market by Aeroflow

Since 2010, Aeroflow Performance Products has grown to design and manufacture close to 13,000 quality products. Amongst the latest releases are the following products.

Exhaust Header Gaskets

Aeroflow Performance says it can supply the very best in engine gaskets for your engine rebuild. Its exhaust gaskets are available in a thick perforated steel designed for an OE factory replacement engine. For high performance engines, it recommends its multi-layer steel exhaust gasket, which are constructed from multiple layers of stainless steel for strength and contain load-controlled embossments that conform load distribution across the sealing area.

Ford 5.0L Coyote V8 Fuel Rail Kits

The Aeroflow Performance Coyote fuel rail is specifically designed to suit the Ford V8 Coyote engine found in Ford Mustang GT (2011-2024) and Ford Falcon FG-X (2014-2016).

Proper fuel delivery is arguably one of the most critical components for those looking to make all the power they can safely.

Aeroflow says the Coyote OEM fuel rails are

incredibly restrictive and impede the fuel delivery to the injectors under high fuel pressures. It states this is problematic for high power engine builds where having consistent fuel pressure is necessary.

Manufactured with a large 18mm internal bore, Aeroflow says these fuel rails can support all necessary engine power requirements, especially with three -8ORB ports fitted along each fuel rail, along with a 1/8-inch NPT port.

They are designed to suit full length 14mm fuel injectors and are available in either black or silver anodised.

Nissan RB Head Drain

The Aeroflow Nissan RB Twin Cam Head Drain Adapter is designed to help prevent potentially dangerous amounts of oil from pooling in the back of the cylinder head.

It has been specifically designed to suit the Nissan RB twin cam cylinder head from a RB20, RB25 and RB26.

This kit helps drain the oil back to the sump with a -10ORB port that allows you to plumb the drain line. Aeroflow says installation is easy, requiring the

removal of one welch plug on the back of the cylinder head, pushing in the head drain, and then bolting it to the thread already in the cylinder head.

T2 to V-Band Turbo Adapter

Aeroflow Performance says the T2 to V-Band Turbo Adapter will save the cost and headache of manufacturing a brand-new exhaust manifold or exhaust system.

It has been designed to convert any T25/T28 flange to accept a v-band turbine inlet exhaust housing. Made from cast 304 stainless steel, it features an uninterrupted gas flow transition to ensure optimum turbocharger response.

It has been designed to suit GT30/GT35 style turbine inlet flanges or the Boosted range of turbochargers which accept the AF8080-1016 V-Band Flange. For more information, visit www.aeroflowperformance.com

PRODUCTS

VDO DRIVING THE FUTURE

How next generation visibility systems are redefining automotive safety

In an era of rapidly transforming mobility, advanced driver assistance technologies have become the backbone of safer, more reliable vehicles.

Among the most impactful innovations are modern visibility systems and Aumovio VDO says its latest range of products – including the Digital Mirror System ProViu Mirror, next generation 360° camera systems ProViu 360, high precision radars, and ultrasonic sensors – represents a significant leap toward safer roads and smarter mobility ecosystems.

At the center of Aumovio’s evolution is the ProViu Mirror, a breakthrough that reimagines traditional side mirrors.

Aumovio explains that by replacing optical mirrors with high resolution display technology, drivers gain sharper, wider, and glare free visuals regardless of weather or lighting conditions. It states this enhancement does more than modernise vehicle design – it materially improves situational awareness, reduces blind spots, and lowers aerodynamic drag, contributing to both safety and efficiency.

“This is a game changing advantage,” Aumovio Head of Department, Thomas Mieni, said.

Complementing the digital mirror is the integrated 360° camera system ProViu 360, delivering an immersive, bird’s eye perspective of the vehicle’s surroundings.

“In dense urban environments, tight loading bays, or congested logistics hubs, this system becomes an indispensable tool,” Thomas said.

“Drivers can navigate narrow lanes, monitor obstacles, and execute precise maneuvers with confidence.

“When paired with digital mirrors, the result is a unified visibility suite that drastically reduces low speed accidents and operational downtime.”

However, true environmental awareness requires more than visual augmentation, and this is where radar technology reshapes the equation.

“Designed to detect objects at long range and through adverse weather, radars offer the reliable backbone needed for collision warning, blind spot detection, and adaptive cruise control,” Thomas said.

“Their ability to function consistently in rain, fog, or dust makes them indispensable for commercial and special purpose vehicles that operate in demanding conditions.”

Completing the sensor ecosystem are ultrasonic sensors, delivering high accuracy, short range detection essential for parking, docking, and maneuvering at low speeds.

“Together with cameras and radar, they create a robust multi modal perception platform – one that ensures no obstacle, vehicle, or pedestrian goes unnoticed,” Thomas said.

“Collectively, these technologies signal a pivotal shift toward smarter, safer mobility. For more information, visit www.aumovio.com

MORE THAN JUST MERCHANDISE

TDCI says it is delivering meaningful connections

The Distributor Company International (TDCI) says it has built its reputation on one clear passion: delivering high-quality, authentic merchandise and memorabilia to fans around the world.

With more than 26 years of industry experience, the company states it has become a trusted name in premium licensed products, serving collectors, enthusiasts, retailers, and event partners alike.

At its core, TDCI explains its mission is simple – to connect fans with thoughtfully curated products which celebrate their love of sport, entertainment, and pop culture.

From rare collector pieces to large-scale merchandise solutions for major events and retail programs, the company says it combines quality craftsmanship with exceptional service at every touchpoint.

Collaboration is said to be central to TDCI’s success, with those behind the company stating that by partnering with leading brands, retailers and manufacturers, it is able to bring “exclusive products to market that meet the highest standards of authenticity, design and appeal.”

Further, TDCI states its global distribution network ensures fans across the world have access to merchandise that reflects their passions and loyalties.

In addition to its wholesale and distribution operations, TDCI proudly operates three dedicated online retail platforms: Ford Store, Holden Store and TDC Merch.

These official webstores offer fans direct access to licensed merchandise that honours some of Australia’s most iconic automotive brands, further strengthening TDCI’s connection with enthusiast communities.

Driven by a commitment to excellence and innovation, TDCI continues to expand its product range and global footprint.

For more information, please visit www.thedistributorcompany.com.au

CORGHI RETURNS TO THE SPOTLIGHT

The company will be on show at May’s Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo

At the upcoming Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAE), to be held in Melbourne from the 14th to 16th of May 2026, Corghi will return to the spotlight at Stand G38 with a portfolio reflecting its longstanding commitment to innovation, precision, and workshop efficiency.

Corghi says this showcase will not just be a display of machines, but a statement about the future direction of professional tyre service, diagnostics, and advanced vehicle calibration.

Leading the presentation will be the hydraulic tyre changer, with Automatic Smart Corghi System Artiglio Master Force, said to be a benchmark in tyre changing technology designed to combine power with intelligent control.

Built for modern high-performance wheels and demanding workshop environments, Corghi says it represents a new generation of automation which enhances productivity without compromising safety.

The Smart Corghi System is reportedly able to eliminate any tension between tyre and rim, even on the most demanding low profile, run flat, and UHP tyres.

Alongside it, Corghi says the fully automatic wheel balancer EyeLight Plus DiagnosticLine will introduce a smarter approach to wheel balancing.

This top-of-the-line Corghi wheel balancer reportedly offers “some of the fastest launch and diagnostic times in the world,” with no manual operations required by the operator and integrated diagnostic capabilities which transform routine checks into advanced analysis, allowing workshops to elevate service quality while reducing downtime. Precision continues with the Exact Precision Quattro, engineered for operators who demand repeatable accuracy and seamless workflow integration.

Exact Precision Quattro is the new 3D wheel aligner with lightweight targets and four high-resolution digital cameras, to ensure measurement maximum precision and accuracy, while the automation of wheel alignment operations and the “extreme reliability” of components enhance productivity.

A premium PC with the latest Windows Professional operating system, new Exact Alignment Top software including a complete database with multibrand technical specifications are part of the rich standard equipment.

With these features, Corghi says the Exact Precision Quattro “stands as an industry benchmark and a safe investment for wheel alignment professionals.”

Speed and versatility will also take centre stage for Corghi at the Expo with the Rapide Go, a compact

yet comprehensive solution tailored for highvolume operations.

The Corghi Dynamic pre-check allows the workshop to quickly check the vehicle geometry of cars and light duty vehicles while passing through, with no need for a dedicated operator, increasing sales opportunities of wheel alignment services.

Complementing this is the new Profil Go, which Corghi says redefines tyre inspection by turning data collection into a fully automated, customer-friendly experience: a perfect example of how digitalisation is reshaping workshop-client interaction.

The evolution of vehicle technology is addressed through the ProADAS TS-3D Digital, a sophisticated ADAS calibration system that supports the growing complexity of modern safety systems.

Corghi says it guarantees maximum precision and accuracy thanks to the integration with Precision Quattro aligner technology, the digital cameras assuring immediate system positioning thanks to the information communicated in real time.

Thanks to digitisation, implementation workshop space can be saved, and new panels can be available more quickly.

Completing the lineup is the iOne Cruiser diagnostic tool, demonstrating how ergonomic design and intelligent engineering can coexist to simplify daily operations while maintaining professional-grade performance. Corghi says this stands out for its communication speed, computing power, and modularity.

Also at the booth, Nexion Oceania will be introducing WeNext, which it describes as a “digital and cutting-edge platform, an innovative and connected ecosystem, powered by artificial intelligence, capable of transforming work in terms of efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.”

Thanks to its revolutionary infrastructure, Nexion says this software connects equipment, which can communicate in real time, share data, and provide advanced diagnostics.

Together, Corghi says these solutions present a cohesive vision: workshops that are faster, smarter, and more connected.

For more from Corghi, visit www.corghi.com.au

PROVIDING AUSTRALIA’S AUTOMOTIVE WORKSHOPS WITH ACCESS TO TOP LEVEL DIAGNOSTICS

From ECU repairs to advanced diagnostics and ADAS calibration, Logicar continues to strengthen the independent workshop sector nationwide

For more than 25 years, Logicar has operated with a clear purpose: ensuring Australia’s independent workshops have access to the same level of diagnostic and workshop capability as the dealer networks.

What began as Petro-ject – a business focused on ECU repairs and technical training – has evolved into a national specialist distributor of advanced workshop equipment.

Many long-standing technicians still remember those early days, when engine control modules were emerging as a new frontier and technical knowledge was becoming as valuable as mechanical skill. That early emphasis on diagnostics was not accidental. It laid the foundation for what Logicar would become.

“Our business started with ECU repairs and technical training,” Logicar Chief Executive Officer, Colette Kirby, said.

“From those early beginnings, we recognised that independent workshops needed access to advanced diagnostic tools and equipment that were previously only available to OEM franchises.”

In its early days – originally backed by a major dealer group Stillwell Motor Group – Logicar identified a growing imbalance in the market. Vehicles were becoming more sophisticated, yet independent operators often lacked the equipment and factory-level data access required to service them effectively.

Rather than simply supplying tools, the business positioned itself as a technical partner. Today, privately owned and operating nationally,

Logicar supports workshops across every state and territory through equipment sales, installation, servicing and technical support.

Its reach extends beyond Australia into New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji, reflecting the portability of its technical expertise and supply network.

From diagnostics to full workshop capability

While diagnostics remain central to its identity, Logicar’s portfolio now spans the broader workshop environment.

Core product lines include hoists, tyre changers, wheel aligners, wheel balancers, and general service equipment – the foundational infrastructure of a productive workshop floor.

Layered over that are advanced diagnostic

platforms covering passenger vehicles, EVs, trucks, AGVs, and even marine applications. Perhaps most significantly, ADAS calibration equipment has become a major growth area.

“As vehicle safety systems evolve, calibration is no longer optional,” Colette said.

“Workshops need the right equipment, and they need to know how to use it correctly.”

The company’s offering does not stop at supply – installation, commissioning, servicing, and technical training form part of the package.

This is a deliberate strategy designed to create long-term partnerships rather than transactional sales.

“We don’t just sell gear,” Colette explains.

“We’re solutions focused. Our people and their readiness to meet our customer needs is what sets us apart. We simply care.”

That sentiment reflects a broader understanding of the SME mindset.

Independent workshops operate on tight margins and limited downtime. Equipment that is improperly installed, poorly supported or inadequately understood can quickly erode profitability.

By embedding technical support within its business model, Logicar says it has created differentiation in a market increasingly populated by large-scale distributors.

Navigating rapid technological change

The present challenge for the sector is clear: keeping pace with rapid technological evolution. Electric vehicles introduce high-voltage systems

and new diagnostic architectures. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) require precise calibration environments. Data-driven scan tools now generate volumes of information that must be interpreted accurately to avoid misdiagnosis.

“Keeping pace with rapid tech change, especially EV and ADAS, is one of the biggest challenges,” Colette acknowledges.

“Looking ahead, aligning the complexities in datadriven scan tools with customer support will be critical.”

To address this, Logicar continues to expand its EV and ADAS calibration equipment portfolio, while exploring predictive diagnostics technologies that anticipate faults rather than simply identifying them.

At the same time, the company remains focused on sourcing quality everyday workshop equipment through its global supplier network – recognising that productivity fundamentals remain just as important as high-end diagnostics.

This balance between innovation and reliability has underpinned the company’s growth trajectory.

A

defining decision

When asked about the single decision that shaped the business, Colette points to a clear strategic pivot.

“Choosing to focus on specialist workshop equipment solutions, and backing that with technical support and training, established a profound differentiation from our large corporate competitors,” Colette said.

“It created long-term customer loyalty.”

That decision effectively moved Logicar from being a product supplier to becoming a capability enabler.

As industry consolidation intensified and large corporate players expanded their footprint, protecting customer-first values became a core priority. Maintaining agility while scaling nationally required careful alignment of culture and capability.

The company’s competitive advantage today lies in its partnerships with global innovators, a technically capable team and an intrinsic understanding of independent operators.

“We are not large corporate,” Colette said.

“We understand the SME mindset.”

Strengthening the Aftermarket

Logicar’s commitment to the independent sector extends beyond equipment supply.

Through its membership of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the business engages with industry advocacy, policy development and professional networking.

Initiatives such as Right to Repair have reinforced the importance of equitable access to vehicle data and technical information – principles that align closely with Logicar’s founding purpose.

“Our membership connects us with valuable industry insights, networking opportunities and strong advocacy that help strengthen the aftermarket sector,” Colette said.

“As an SME, we also rely on the AAAA for trusted legal and HR guidance – honestly, a single phone call can pay for the membership on its own.”

Colette’s involvement at board level further cements the company’s engagement with sector development, positioning Logicar as both supplier and stakeholder in the future of the independent workshop.

Looking ahead

Strategically, the path forward centres on expanding national reach and further strengthening supply chain resilience.

As vehicle platforms continue evolving toward software-defined architectures and electrified powertrains, the complexity of workshop tooling will only increase.

For independent operators, access to appropriate equipment and technical backing will remain decisive.

Logicar’s growth over the past quarter century demonstrates that the independent workshop is not merely surviving technological disruption – it is adapting, investing and professionalising.

The company’s evolution from ECU repair specialist to national workshop equipment partner mirrors the broader transformation of the sector itself.

In an industry defined by constant change, Logicar’s core philosophy remains consistent: empower the independent workshop with the tools, training and technical support required to compete – and thrive – in a rapidly advancing automotive landscape. For more information, visit www.logicar.com.au

TRIDON PARKING SENSORS

Expanding opportunity in the aftermarket

Tridon has released a new range of parking sensors which are said to deliver a premium quality, direct OEM replacement solution designed specifically for front and rear bumper applications across a broad range of vehicles. With more than 100 part numbers covering Australian, Japanese, Korean, European, and American vehicles, Tridon says it now offers one of the most comprehensive aftermarket parking sensor programs available in Australia and New Zealand.

For wholesale distributors, resellers, and professional repairers, this range opens the door to servicing a category that has traditionally been dominated by genuine OEM supply or online imports.

Until now, workshops faced limited choices with expensive genuine parts, generic replacement kits, or overseas online purchases with uncertain quality and extended delivery times.

Tridon says it changes that by introducing a locally stocked, competitively priced alternative that meets or exceeds OEM specifications. For smash repairers and mechanical workshops, Tridon says the benefits are immediate and measurable.

Faster parts access means reduced vehicle downtime; direct fitment ensures efficient installation; the program delivers confidence on every installation, reports Tridon.

Beyond product performance, this release represents a new supply solution within the aftermarket network, providing workshops with the certainty they need and distributors with a strong new category to grow.

The introduction of parking sensors further strengthens Tridon’s already extensive automotive parts portfolio.

For more information, visit www.tridon.com.au

JW SPEAKER ANTI-GLARE LED LIGHTING

Available from Invision Sales

JW Speaker’s anti-glare LED lighting solutions are engineered to meet these rigorous operational requirements while also delivering an important environmental benefit: protecting animal welfare and natural ecosystems.

In heavy industrial environments, glare can compromise visibility, create eye fatigue, and increase risk for operators working long hours in challenging conditions.

Invision Sales explains that JW Speaker’s anti-glare technology minimises harsh light scatter, delivering controlled, focused illumination that enhances clarity without overwhelming the human eye.

It states the result is improved safety, reduced strain, and greater operational efficiency across worksites where precision matters.

Beyond industrial applications, the impact of lighting on animals and wildlife is increasingly recognised.

Excessive glare and high blue-light content can disrupt circadian rhythms, elevate stress levels and alter natural behaviours in livestock and native species.

JW Speaker addresses these concerns with a specialised LED colour temperature of 1850K, a warm, low-impact light that closely aligns with natural firelight tones.

Critically, it contains just 1.8 percent blue light within the 400-500 nanometre range of the visible spectrum, the band most responsible for biological disruption.

Invision Sales says this minimal blue light output significantly reduces stress and disorientation in animals, helping to maintain healthy feeding, breeding and resting patterns.

For more information, visit www.invision.net.au

JAYLEC HEAVY DUTY POWER SOLUTIONS

The Jaylec starter motor and alternator range is continually expanding

CoolDrive’s range of on and off-road heavy-duty starter motors and alternators has been developed to offer customers an alternative to existing OE programs for US driveline applications.

Built to perform in some of Australia’s harshest environments, CoolDrive says the Jaylec range delivers a reliable, cost-effective solution without compromising on durability or performance.

Manufactured in facilities with OE and OES production lines and shipped directly to Australia, the Jaylec units are rigorously tested to withstand Australia’s demanding on and off-road operating conditions.

CoolDrive says this makes them a smart choice for workshops and fleet operators looking to balance reliability, longevity, and cost control.

The Jaylec starter motor range includes replacements for Delco Remy type starters, with both 12V and 24V options available, as well as Prestolite type alternators.

Each starter unit features an upgraded heavy-duty brush holder and a standard dual-earth design, broadening application coverage and simplifying fitment across a wide range of vehicles.

The alternators feature an option for field isolation warning lights and also come with a 12PV pulley as standard.

Development in partnership with factories that produce OE products ensures consistent quality, and dependable starting and charging performance, says CoolDrive.

Jaylec Black Series high-performance variants are said to increase output even further, delivering up to 230A hot and 250A cold, with features such as oil-sealed brush assemblies, larger rectifiers for improved charging efficiency, and strong low-RPM output, making them ideal for heavy-duty, marine, and dangerous goods applications.

With additional units and configurations coming soon, CoolDrive explains the Jaylec starter motor and alternator range is continually expanding, offering “dependable, high-performance charging and starting solutions that workshops can trust.”

For further information on the new Jaylec range, please visit www.cooldrive.com.au

NEW FROM LUCIDITY AUSTRALIA

New ‘Tiger Eye’ LED marker lamps have been launched by the company

Lucidity Australia says it is excited to introduce the newest addition to its premium lighting line-up as part of its ongoing commitment to innovation and safety: the 26289 range, code named ‘Tiger Eye.’

“This range of LED marker lamps combine modern engineering with a sleek chrome surround, delivering outstanding results for trucks, trailers, and commercial fleets operating across Australia’s demanding environments,” Lucidity Australia General Manager, Andrew Francis, said.

“Each lamp is constructed with a high-quality polycarbonate lens, renowned for impact

resistance, UV protection, and long-term clarity. This ensures the lamps stay durable and visible, even in harsh outdoor conditions.

“The range features a surface-mount design with optional chrome bracket, ensuring fast, secure, and hassle-free installation – this makes it ideal for fleet maintenance workshops and OEM manufacturers seeking efficient, consistent fitment, all backed by a five-year warranty.”

Andrew explains that flexibility is a major advantage of the LED Marker Lamps offered by Lucidity Australia, with the range supporting dualvoltage operation, making it suitable for both 12V and 24V systems.

The lamps also feature IP67 sealing, ensuring complete protection against dust ingress and water immersion.

“Lucidity’s engineering team has developed a unique solution to the lens and mounting design, ensuring the lens remains perfectly sealed, removing moisture and dust build-up behind the lens,” Andrew said.

“This design allows the Lucidity Tiger Eye marker

to look brand new no matter how long they have been on the road.

“This innovative lens and mounting design provides Lucidity with a competitive advantage.

“This high-level protection is essential for operators facing demand applications needing their products to last in the harsh Australia environment.”

The Tiger Eye range comes in various options, including clear lenses with red or amber LEDs, as well as coloured lenses with red or amber. It also includes an optional chrome bracket.

For more information on the Tiger Eye range or to find out more about Lucidity Australia, the company invites you to visit it at the AAA Expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre across May 14-16, at stand C50.

To learn more about Lucidity Australia, visit www.lucidityaustralia.com.au

AUTO ELECTRICAL & LIGHTING

PROJECTA LAUNCHES REVOLUTIONARY NEW 48V SYSTEM

The new release was unveiled at the Victorian Caravan and Camping Supershow

Leading Australian battery maintenance and power management brand, Projecta, has used this year’s Victorian Caravan and Camping Supershow to showcase what it describes as a revolutionary new 48V power management system, offering major benefits to caravan and motorhome OEMs along with end users.

Designed to more efficiently and comfortably handle the increased power demands of modern travellers, especially those who enjoy spending extended time off the grid, Projecta’s new 48V inverter/charger system is said to deliver more power, functionality, and faster charging, all in an easy-to-use package.

Power distribution within the system is managed by a customisable 18-channel output module that converts the 48V input to 12V output for easy compatibility with existing 12V appliances.

The module supports a variety of load types, including heavy loads, standard circuits, lighting, and dimming applications.

The new 48V system is lighter and has a smaller footprint than comparable 12V systems, maintaining valuable space and payload capacity within the caravan without sacrificing power.

The system is also designed to accommodate a chassis mounted battery, further freeing interior space.

With fast charging that’s capable of renewing a 5kW battery from flat to full in 1.5 to 2 hours (when connected to mains power), and a high 4kW inverter capacity, the system is perfect for use with energy-hungry appliances.

When compared to 12V systems, Projecta says its 48V package is also less prone to energy loss; meaning greater efficiency, particularly when paired with 48V equipment.

As an example, when powering a 48V air conditioner, Projecta says efficiency gains of up to 10 percent can be had, allowing customers to power additional appliances (toaster, kettle or coffee machine etc) without having to turn off the air conditioner, leading to a more convenient offgrid experience.

Additionally, Projecta says this unit is superior when it comes to power capacity and delivery, stating

EXPANDING QUALITY AND CHOICE

Unique Auto Parts strengthens its electrical range

Unique Auto Parts says it continues to broaden its already impressive product offering, with Valeo, Vaico, and Vemo now firmly integrated into its electrical, ignition, and lighting range.

It says these brands bring new depth to the company’s commitment to supplying high quality replacement parts for European passenger and light commercial vehicles.

Valeo, a global leader in automotive electrical systems, is widely recognised for its OEM expertise and advanced engineering.

Unique Auto Parts now stocks an extensive selection of Valeo components, including sensors, alternators, and starter motors

Alongside Valeo, the introduction of Vaico and Vemo adds even more choice for customers seeking OEM quality electrical and lighting solutions.

Unique Auto Parts says both brands are known for precision manufacturing and strict quality standards, making them strong options for workshops and vehicle owners who want dependable replacement parts.

The company also maintains a strong partnership with Bosch, a brand synonymous with reliability and engineering excellence.

Unique Auto Parts stocks a comprehensive range of Bosch components, from air flow sensors and oxy sensors to alternators, starter motors, spark plugs, and even non electrical essentials such as wiper blades.

Unique Auto Parts also continues to support its electrical and lighting offering with products from long established industry leaders such as Hella.

With a long history in automotive lighting and electrical innovation, Unique Auto Parts says Hella remains a trusted name for high performance components.

Unique Auto Parts carries a wide selection of Hella products, including camshaft and crankshaft sensors, oil level sensors, fan resistors, glow plug relays, oxy sensors, air conditioning pressure sensors, and ignition coils.

With five convenient locations across Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth and both local delivery and interstate shipping available, the company says

that 12V systems only provide a maximum of 3kW. It further states there is also less voltage drop and lower overall power loss with the Projecta system.

Operating the 48V Projecta unit is also simple; owners can opt for either a generous seven-inch or 10-inch touch-screen colour display with intuitive menus that allow easy monitoring and control of system features.

For motorhome and caravan manufacturers, Projecta says the new Projecta 48V power management system also offers many advantages. It states the lighter gauge cabling system is more efficient to work with, while WAGO connectors secure easily without tools.

The modular two-unit design also simplifies installation for faster and neater fitment, reducing labour time while delivering a premium finish.

For more information, visit www.projecta.com.au

customers can rely on fast access to the parts they need.

As the supplier list grows, those behind the company say so too does the Unique Auto Parts ability to offer quality, choice, and confidence. They state the presence of Valeo, Vaico, and Vemo marks another step forward in ensuring that Unique Auto Parts remains a trusted destination for European vehicle components.

For more information, call 1300 864 864 to be connected to your nearest branch or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au

WORK MORE EFFICIENTLY WITH LITHIUM

REDARC REDLAB Icon batteries are here

Every mobile workshop carries one simple expectation – once onsite the onboard power system just works.

If you’re running tools, diagnostic gear, chargers or lights, an unreliable auxiliary power system can lead to frustration, lost hours, and callbacks. The battery is the foundation for any mobile power system. Whether you are working on-site, in a driveway, or on the street, a dual battery system means you can work anywhere, at any time.

REDARC says traditional AGM and lead acid batteries are heavy, slow to recharge, and struggle in high demand service environments.

Paired with voltage drops when under load, a 50 percent usable capacity and a reduced lifespan, REDARC warns traditional chemistries can result in limited productivity.

As the number of tools and devices in modern service bodies increases, so does the pressure on the battery system and the user.

REDARC says you can reduce unnecessary pressure with lithium batteries, stating these batteries are better suited to vehicles expected to run multiple devices daily.

With more than 6,000 charge cycles and a near 100 percent usable capacity, these batteries

provide a more stable voltage under load to better support 240V equipment.

For mobile workshops, that means fewer failures, less downtime and improved reliability.

REDARC explains that its REDLAB Icon range has been developed specifically for high demand applications.

Available in 100Ah, 200Ah and 300Ah, each battery delivers 100 percent usable capacity and ultra-high charge and discharge rates, perfect for powerful inverters and chargers without needing to oversize the system.

With a vibration resistant construction and an IP67 rating for water and dust protection, REDLAB Icon batteries are designed to deliver serious off-grid performance in rugged environments.

Whether your build is in the elements or undercover, REDARC says its REDLAB Icon will deliver power that lasts.

Each unit includes an in-built display and integrated smart monitoring showing state of charge and fault status, so you always know how much power you have left at a glance.

Designed to work seamlessly with REDARC’s BCDC and Manager chargers, these batteries

ITECHWORLD JUMP STARTERS

iTechworld jump starters are entirely self-contained, meaning you can get back on the road without help

A flat battery can leave you stranded at the worst possible time, whether you are off-road, at the boat ramp, or just trying to get to work.

iTechworld says its powerful and compact lithium jump starters are designed to deliver instant power in critical moments.

The company states that its range of jump starters “ensures you’re never left without a solution. Say goodbye to being stuck!”

Unlike traditional jumper cables that rely on another vehicle, iTechworld jump starters are entirely self-contained, meaning you can get back on the road without any help.

With the ability to start cars, 4WDs, boats, motorcycles, and even heavy-duty machinery, iTechworld states these jump starters pack a serious punch in a lightweight, portable design. They can also double as power banks, allowing you to charge phones, tablets, and other devices when you are on the go.

The iTechworld JS80 3000amp Lithium Jump Starter is said to be the perfect emergency device for a dead battery, able to help bring some normality back to a potentially worrying situation. Whether you have left the lights on or the battery is faulty, iTechworld says its JS80 will get your vehicle moving again.

The JS60 meanwhile can jump-start petrol vehicles up to 7.0L and diesels up to 4.5L utilising the inbuilt 1500 starting amps.

iTechworld explains this model is perfect for use on cars, boats, utes, 4WDs, camper vans, lawnmowers, and everything in between.

In fact, it states, “everyone should have an iTechworld JS60 as a backup to bring life back into your dead battery.”

The company states that each jump starter in the

are series and parallel compatible, ready to form what REDARC describes as “a rock-solid, all-inone power system.”

When it is time to install your battery, safety is key.

Certified to the latest safety standards, these batteries feature an integrated isolation button to limit the risk of live terminals during installation and travel.

REDARC explains it is ten percent smaller than leading competitors and available with optional mounting feet and battery tray, so REDLAB Icon batteries give you more flexibility in tight spaces and more room for important equipment.

For workshop owners, this results in an optimised system designed to reduced downtime, reduce battery replacements and lower total cost of ownership across the vehicle lifecycle.

To access full specifications, compliance information and integration guidance, visit www.redarcelectronics.com

range is built for reliability, featuring an advanced lithium battery management system, multiple safety protections, and user-friendly displays (even tactical-grade torches).

Whether you choose a compact model for everyday use or a high-output unit for larger engines, iTechworld says it has the right jump starter for your needs.

iTechworld invites you to ensure you don’t get caught off-guard when you are on the road, encouraging you to visit its website and secure a jump starter today.

For more information, visit www.itechworld.com.au

AUTO ELECTRICAL & LIGHTING

INTRODUCING THE TRAILER VISION BREAK AWAY SYSTEM

Trailer Vision says it is breaking away from the norm with this new system

Trailer Vision says it continues to lead the way in innovation, performance, and total quality with its latest advancement in trailer safety technology: the recently patented TV-BB5 Trailer Vision Break Away System.

Designed for trailers or caravans over 2000kg GTM, Trailer Vision says the TV-BB5 sets a new benchmark in safety compliance and functionality.

“It is currently the only break away unit available featuring a low battery audible alarm combined with brake light activation, providing an additional layer of safety for these critical systems,” Trailer Vision Managing Director, Sandy Gravolin, said.

“This unique feature ensures operators receive clear warning of battery issues while also delivering visible brake light indication –enhancing on-road awareness and compliance.”

The TV-BB5 units are compatible with trailers up to two axles, making them suitable for a wide range of heavy-duty applications.

In addition, the system can be expanded with remote battery monitoring, providing operators

with even greater visibility and control over battery condition and system readiness.

The TV-BB5 is fully ADR and CTA approved, with testing conducted right here in Australia.

“Trailer Vision is proud to support local industry through rigorous domestic testing, manufacturing and assembly, reinforcing our commitment to Australian standards, jobs and quality assurance,” Sandy said.

“Quality and innovation are synonymous with the Trailer Vision brand, and the TV-BB5 break away system is no exception.

“Every unit is factory tested in Australia, and brandnew batteries are typically installed at the time of order.

“This ensures customers receive a fresh, ready-toinstall system, not a unit that has been sitting on the shelf for extended periods.”

The system also features Trailer Vision’s proprietary see-through break away switch, making operational inspections quick and simple.

This thoughtful design allows for easy visual

POWER UNDER PRESSURE

Battery Support is vital when it comes to diagnostics work

According to CTEK, in today’s modern workshop, battery support is no longer a “nice to have,” it’s a fundamental part of best-practice servicing, diagnostics, and performance work.

Regardless of whether a vehicle is in for routine maintenance, advanced diagnostics, or performance upgrades, stable battery support underpins almost every task.

The battery is quite literally the electrical backbone of the vehicle, and without adequate support, CTEK warns even minor jobs can introduce unnecessary risk, inefficiency, and potential customer comebacks.

Vehicle electrical loads have increased dramatically over the past decade, driven by the proliferation of onboard systems that remain active even when the engine is switched off.

Keyless entry, alarm systems, infotainment modules, digital instrument clusters, and body control modules all draw power continuously.

During diagnostic work, software updates, calibration procedures or fault tracing, these loads increase further – placing additional strain on an already taxed battery.

In performance and workshop environments, voltage instability during these processes can lead to corrupted data, fault codes, or in worst cases, ECU damage.

As leaders in battery charging and support technology, CTEK explains it has conducted extensive real-world testing to quantify just how demanding modern vehicles can be.

Testing on an average BMW X5 SUV revealed peak current draws of 27.1 amps for central locking, 40.38 amps for power windows, 30.6 amps for the electric parking brake, and 27.68 amps for vehicle lighting.

CTEK explains that even with the ignition off, simply having a door open draws 10.5 amps – rising to 32.8 amps with the ignition on.

These figures highlight how quickly voltage can drop if a battery is not actively supported during workshop operations, and for workshops, CTEK says the takeaway is clear: charging and conditioning batteries during servicing is not just preventative maintenance, it is a professional safeguard. Consistent battery support helps prevent flat batteries, protects sensitive electronics, reduces workshop downtime and ensures customers leave with a vehicle that performs as expected, says the company.

CTEK PRO15S

CTEK describes its CTEK PRO15S as designed around the needs of the automotive professional. Combining power and advanced technology with safety, portability and flexibility to work with

confirmation of correct operation, improving maintenance efficiency and safety checks.

To further streamline installation, Trailer Vision now offers new fast-fit mounting brackets.

Designed around common trailer profiles, these brackets are said to eliminate the need for bulky bolts while providing a secure and professional mounting solution.

“Trailer Vision remains proud to support Australian manufacturing and local jobs through the production and assembly of its break away systems delivering reliability, compliance and innovation to the automotive aftermarket,” Sandy said.

For more information, contact Trailer Vision on 02 6645 2722 or mail@trailervision.com.au or speak with one of its authorised distributors.

any 12V vehicle battery, including lithium (12V LiFePO4), it is said to be the perfect solution to professional battery charging.

Thanks to its strong, robust construction and innovative technology, CTEK says the PRO15 can withstand heat, dust, humidity, and anything else you can throw at it, making it a great battery unit to have around a bustling workshop floor.

Further, CTEK says its battery support units are easy to use and reliable, helping to keep power supply stable, the vehicle’s stored data safe, and preventing damage to sensitive ECUs and other vehicle electronics.

They also feature a ‘RECOND’ mode to bring deeply discharged lead-acid batteries back to life and a lithium ‘wake up’ mode for batteries with under voltage protection.

To find out more about the entire range of CTEK products, visit www.ctek.com

THE ED3800 VIZ SERIES

Optimising safety with high-visibility equipment

In high-risk environments where visibility is critical, ECCO says the ED3800 VIZ Series LED warning light sets a new benchmark in safety innovation. Engineered with patented HINVII illumination technology, this advanced system uses a 405nm near-UV wavelength to actively enhance the visibility of high-visibility clothing and materials, including safety vests, traffic cones, and signage, by illuminating them directly.

ECCO says this breakthrough technology significantly improves worker safety in lowlight conditions, high-traffic zones, and adverse weather environments.

The ED3800 VIZ Series incorporates VIZ illumination, a patented technology that works in tandem with high-visibility gear to ensure workers are visible from all angles.

With 69 synchronise-capable flash patterns, wideangle optics, and independent colour control, ECCO says this ultra-low-profile surface-mount light delivers “unmatched performance and flexibility” for utility, construction, and commercial service vehicles.

Built for durability, reliability and safety, the ED3800 features a die-cast base and polycarbonate lens, withstanding extreme temperatures from -40ºC to +65ºC.

Importantly, the 405nm near UV wavelength used in HINVII illumination is not a true ultraviolet wavelength and is safe for operators and workers during regular use.

The unit meets rigorous global standards, including SAE Class 1, CE, UK/CA, ECE R10, IP67, IP69K, RoHS, and REACH, ensuring compliance across a wide range of applications.

Available in dual-colour Amber/HINVII and tri-

colour combinations such as Amber/Green/HINVII, Amber/Blue/HINVII, and Amber/White/HINVII, the ED3800 VIZ Series offers tailored solutions for diverse operational needs.

Its synchronisation capability allows multiple units to operate in harmony, enhancing visibility across entire fleets or job sites.

Whether deployed on roadside service vehicles or within complex construction zones, ECCO says the ED3800 VIZ Series delivers a powerful combination of visibility, durability, and compliance.

By actively illuminating high-visibility materials, the company says it transforms passive safety gear into dynamic visual signals, optimising safety where it matters most.

For more information, visit www.eccoesg.com/au or to find details about your local distributor, or call ECCO on 1800 815 000.

A FRESH NEW LOOK FOR ENDURANT BATTERIES

Same trusted performance, now with an easier way to choose the right Endurant battery

Endurant Batteries recently unveiled a bold new look across its comprehensive range of premium automotive, commercial, marine, and deep cycle batteries.

Designed with both form and function in mind, those behind the refreshed design explain it reflects Endurant’s ongoing commitment to quality, innovation, and customer-first thinking.

Endurant Batteries are sourced from world-leading manufacturers, ensuring “premium quality, dependable performance and industry-leading durability.”

“Our products are backed by generous nationwide warranties – giving customers added confidence that Endurant is built to last,” JAS Auto Electrical Parts Product Manager, Mike Morgan, said.

“Whether you are on the road, at sea, or off the grid, Endurant delivers the reliability Australian conditions demand.

“We’re excited about this evolution.

“We’ve listened to our customers and invested in updates that make the Endurant range more user-friendly and visually appealing, without compromising on the superior performance and reliability our customers expect.

“The latest brand refresh features a modern,

high impact foil label design that not only looks premium but also introduces a range of practical improvements to help customers choose the right battery with ease.”

These key upgrades include:

• Clearly defined sub-category colour coding and branding to help instantly distinguish between automotive, commercial, marine, start stop AGM, and EFB and deep cycle applications.

• New Warranty call outs, so consumers can easily identify the warranty period for each battery.

• New front-positioned part numbers for fast and accurate product identification in retail and workshop environments.

• Enhanced feature callouts printed directly on the

label to help customers quickly understand key performance advantages and specifications.

Endurant Batteries are exclusively distributed by JAS Auto Electrical Parts, one of Australia’s most experienced battery and automotive electrical distributors.

With a strong national network of more than 40 branch locations and a deep commitment to service and support, JAS Auto Electrical Parts says it is proud to supply Endurant products to automotive professionals, workshops, fleet operators, and battery retailers across the country, including Truckline and Burson.

The Endurant range is available nationwide. For further information, visit www.jasoceania.com.au

GVM UPGRADE KITS BENEFIT FROM SODIUM-ION START BATTERIES

Aeson Power says game changing battery tech gives 4x4 owners another option

Whether it is a Ford Ranger towing a dual-axle van or a Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series heading to the Cape, payload disappears fast once you add a bull bar, canopy, and a fridge full of supplies. Add towing, and owners can quickly breach legal limits. To stay insured and compliant, a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) upgrade is often required.

Under Australian Design Rules and state engineering regulations, upgrades can legally increase GVM by 300-600kg on popular dual cabs. Fully engineered, that typically costs $4,000–$6,500, says Aeson Power.

Typical OEM lead-acid batteries weigh 2330kg, says Aeson Power, which states that its StratoForse sodium-ion start battery range is 40-60 percent lighter, saving 10-16kg instantly, depending on size.

Crucially, that weight comes off the front axle, which is critical for steering, suspension, and tyre wear.

In practical terms, 15kg equals 15 litres of water, a full recovery kit, or valuable tow ball download margin.

Weight saving is only part of the story though,

says Aeson Power, which states its StratoForse delivers equal or higher CCA than comparable lead batteries, with low internal resistance giving faster charge recovery after cranking – making it ideal for accessory-heavy modern vehicles.

Unlike lead or lithium, Aeson Power states sodiumion chemistry thrives in engine-bay heat, operating from -30°C to +80°C.

Further, it states repeated partial state-of-charge cycling – common in touring vehicles running fridges, lighting and compressors – doesn’t damage the chemistry.

According to Aeson Power, the “incredible” discharge rate of 25C for the StratoForse delivers high performance winching. And paired with a charge rate of 5C, it means the battery is no longer the limiting factor.

In theory, a 100Ah unit could accept 500A and recharge in under 15 minutes, says Aeson Power.

StratoForse is rated for up to 120,000 engine starts and can safely discharge to 80 percent DoD when required.

At 50 percent DoD, the company says it can deliver up to 3,000 cycles, which it states is “far

COMMON FAULTS, FAST FIXES

Febest offers a range of must-stock ABS, level sensors, and electrics

Auto electrical faults are no longer limited to specialist work.

Many of the most common issues workshops see today are tied to everyday components that live in harsh conditions and get hammered by heat, moisture, vibration, and road grime.

When these parts start to fail, symptoms can be intermittent and frustrating, and the vehicle often cannot be returned until the fault is resolved properly.

One of the biggest examples is ABS wheel speed sensors.

A weak signal can quickly trigger ABS or stability control warning lights. In some cases, the fault comes and goes, which adds diagnostic time and increases the risk of repeat visits if the underlying issue is not addressed.

Having the correct sensor available for common applications helps workshops turn these jobs around quickly and get the customer back on the road with confidence.

Another growing area is ride height and level sensing.

Vehicles with self-levelling systems or sport suspension rely on accurate inputs from level sensors and height control sensors.

When these sensors wear out, or when links and brackets become damaged, drivers may see warning lights, uneven ride height, headlight levelling issues, or drivability complaints depending on the system.

Because these parts are often fitted with specific links, brackets, or wiring, correct part selection matters.

Febest explains that it offers coverage including options supplied with brackets, links, and wiring where applicable, helping trade customers match the part to the vehicle specification.

For diesel applications, glow plugs remain a steady demand line.

A tired glow plug can contribute to hard starting, rough cold idle, smoke, or extended crank times. Supplying the right specification, including 4.4V and 11V glow plugs, helps workshops fix cold-start issues.

Febest has also recently expanded its electrical offering with new lines in cooling and cabin comfort.

This includes radiator cooling fans and cooling fan assemblies (with options supplied with a control module or resistor), as well as heater blower motors.

beyond the dreams of a conventional lead start battery.”

Aeson Power says with no thermal runaway, StratoForse is non-toxic, sealed, and acid-free, with no sulphation while being maintenancefree, and able to recover from zero volts without permanent damage to performance or life.

StratoForse models are backed by a three-year warranty, or five-year warranty for the top-of-theline StratoForse-SS+.

Aeson Power says pricing is comparable to premium AGM and up to 50 percent less than equivalent under-bonnet lithium.

For more information, contact Aeson Power’s Scott Clark on 0418 184 552 or visit www.aesonpower.com.au

These are often urgent repairs, especially in hot weather, so having the right parts available can be the difference between a same-day turnaround and a delayed job, says Febest.

For wholesalers and resellers, Febest says these categories are strong performers because they are practical, high-need parts that workshops regularly encounter.

It says that stocking the right Febest electrical lines can support repeat trade business and helps customers fix common faults without delays.

To view the entire range, visit www.febest.com.au

WHAT’S STOPPING YOUR CUSTOMER?

The RDA range of brake rotors, pads, drums, and shoes is one of Australia’s largest

RDA Brakes explains that its three-tier brake pad range accommodates different vehicle types and driving styles, from everyday general performance to light-commercial vehicles.

All RDA brake pads are backed by an 18-month/30,000km warranty.

The robust RDA Brakes range also includes standard replacement rotors, incorporating features you would see in OEM manufactured rotors, as well as the brand’s Gen 3 Anti-Rust Coating, which is formulated to increase surface rust resistance on non-braking areas.

To complement RDA’s Standard Brake Rotor Range, RDA has a wide range of Slotted and Dimpled Rotors available, with the directional slotting surface of these rotors said to be a formidable weapon against brake fade.

It explains it reduces brake fade by countering “out-gassing,” a phenomenon triggered by the gas produced from the brake pad bonding agent.

All RDA Rotors come with a 12-month or 20,000km warranty.

RDA Brakes also offers a full range of brake drums to suit small passenger vehicles to light commercial, incorporating features you would see from OEM manufactured drums, like bearings and ABS Rings, as standard.

The RDA Brake Shoe range has been specially formulated to ensure low noise, low dust, and maximum stopping power.

RDA also carries a range of Banksia handbrake bands which contain the minor hardware for faster fitment.

The full range of RDA Brakes is available from NAPA Australia and New Zealand.

RDA Slotted and Dimpled Rotors are now also available from Repco Nationwide.

For more information, visit www.napaparts.com.au or www.repco.com.au

MODERN DRIVELINE DIAGNOSTICS WITH TOPSCAN MASTER

The solution from TopDon covers everything from gearbox matching to complete system diagnostics

The driveline has evolved from a largely mechanical assembly into a complex, softwarecontrolled system.

Gearboxes, differentials, and transfer cases now rely on multiple electronic control units, sensors, and encrypted communication gateways.

TopDon says the future of driveline service depends on intelligent diagnostics, guided procedures, and electronic matching capabilities.

Perfect shifts start with perfect matching

Gearbox matching plays a critical role in restoring proper drivability. After clutch service, valve body replacement, or control unit updates, the transmission must relearn its operating parameters.

Without matching, shift quality may degrade, and warning lights may appear. Accurate diagnostics ensure that matching procedures are performed under the correct conditions and that supporting systems are operating normally.

Expand service opportunities with TopScan Master

With support for 30 common maintenance and service functions, TopDon says the TopScan Master allows workshops to deliver comprehensive service packages during a single visit.

In addition to gearbox matching, it also supports multiple transmission-related services including throttle adaptation and gear learning.

Beyond the driveline, TopScan Master also covers many high-demand and advanced calibration services including EPB reset, battery replacement registration, TPMS reset, ABS bleeding, injector coding, and Cylinder Power Test.

TopDon says having these 30-plus functions in one handheld device means technicians can complete more tasks per vehicle without switching tools.

Engineering efficiency: diagnostics that work faster

TopDon explains that its TopScan Master is engineered to streamline the entire workflow through three core pillars: Active Tests for fast verification; Broad Protocol; and Gateway Compatibility.

Active Tests allow technicians to directly activate components such as transmission solenoids, fuel pumps, and actuators.

By observing immediate responses, faults can be isolated faster, reducing unnecessary part dismantling and minimising repeat repairs. This can also allow repair verification, reducing diagnostic guesswork.

At the same time, TopScan Master supports modern vehicle communication protocols such as CAN-FD and DoIP, ensuring compatibility with more new cars.

Secure gateway access also enables servicing of popular brands including FCA, Nissan, Renault, and Volkswagen Group vehicles protected by SFD gateways.

As such, TopDon explains technicians can perform full diagnosis on protected vehicles without restrictions.

120-plus brands, full system insight

TopDon states that the TopScan Master supports full-system diagnostics for more than 120 vehicle brands, including fault code reading and clearing, as well as live data stream monitoring for all vehicle systems.

It says this means technicians can quickly trace communication issues and abnormalities with intuitive displays.

In summary, TopDon explains that TopScan Master goes far beyond driveline diagnostics as a complete diagnostic and maintenance solution designed for workshops seeking to expand service capability, improve efficiency, and increase revenue.

For more information, visit www.topdon.com

EXPANDED SCHAEFFLER CLUTCH REPAIR PORTFOLIO FOR ASIAN VEHICLES

Schaeffler says this expansion translates into market-leading coverage of the Asian car park

The Vehicle Lifetime Solutions division of Schaeffler has significantly expanded its product portfolio for clutch repair of Asian vehicles.

Under its LuK brand, Schaeffler now offers more than 450 articles, from individual parts like dualmass flywheels and concentric slave cylinders, all the way to intelligently conceived repair solutions.

“For over 50 years, Schaeffler’s clutch technology has proven so successful for European applications, it is a natural progression that it has also been extensively used in the mass-production of Asian vehicles,” Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions Head of the Transmission Systems Program, Rouven Daniel, said.

“The extensive know-how from the originalequipment side of our business also flows into our solutions for the spare parts market.

“When it comes to transmissions, we are one of the market leaders. So, it goes without saying that we are constantly optimising our mobility ecosystem portfolio to be as relevant as possible.”

A focus on the Asian market

The mobility eco-system specialist reports it has been investing a lot in expanding its Asian portfolio lately and continuously adds new article numbers to the program for Asian vehicles.

A special focus of this expansion was expanding its well-established assortment of complete solutions for clutch repair.

The classic LuK RepSet and the LuK RepSet Pro, which includes clutch discs, pressure plates and matching concentric slave cylinder, are now available for current Asian vehicles from makes like Toyota, Mazda, Isuzu, and Mitsubishi to name a few.

The LuK RepSet DMF with dual-mass flywheel, the LuK RepSet 2CT for double-clutch repair, and numerous hydraulic components, are all available from Schaeffler for Asian vehicle brands.

Garages can quickly and easily find the right repair solution using the inbuilt catalogue inside REPXPERT, Schaeffler’s portal for mechanics and garage professionals.

Technical instructions, an installation video library and a lot of other useful tips for everyday repair work are also available for both desktop or portable devices.

The Schaeffler Group has been driving forward groundbreaking inventions and developments in the field of motion technology for over 75 years. Schaeffler describes its comprehensive range of products and services in the mobility ecosystem by means of eight product families: from bearing solutions and all types of linear guidance systems through to repair and monitoring services.

With around 115,000 employees and more than 250 locations in 55 countries, Schaeffler says it is one of the world’s largest family-owned companies and one of Germany’s most innovative companies. For more information, visit www.schaeffler.com

BRAKE, CLUTCH & DRIVELINE

DBA 4000 SERIES DISC BRAKE ROTORS

DBA says these rotors should top every workshop’s brake recommendation list

When customers book in for a pre-holiday service, the focus is often on oils, filters, and tyres.

Experienced workshop owners know the more important discussion often comes later, when a fully loaded SUV is about to head off for days of range driving with the family onboard.

As Australian families prepare for the holiday break, workshops move into the familiar pre-travel rush. Beyond the increase in volume, this period presents an opportunity to shift customers from reactive repairs to preventative brake maintenance.

Everyday commuting rarely places braking systems under the kind of sustained load experienced during long-distance touring.

Extended travel quickly exposes the limits of standard braking components. Long descents in loaded vehicles, stop-start traffic in unfamiliar towns and sustained highway speeds create heat levels well beyond what most vehicles see in daily use.

Disc Brakes Australia (DBA) says this is why so many customers return from holidays with worn rotors, glazed pads, or complaints that the pedal felt inconsistent halfway down a range.

The pre-holiday service window

The window to have this conversation is short. Customers booking now are planning significant kilometres with extra weight from passengers, luggage, roof racks, or trailers.

They are also more open to practical advice when the explanation is tied directly to their upcoming trip.

A loaded vehicle descending extended grades can push rotor temperatures beyond 600°C.

DBA explains most OE braking systems are engineered for suburban conditions with occasional highway use, stating they are not designed for repeated high-load deceleration through alpine regions or coastal ranges.

Pre-holiday inspections are an opportunity to assess thermal capacity, not just remaining pad thickness.

When everyday brake design meets holiday reality

Holiday driving places braking systems into operating conditions they may not experience at any other time of year.

Cold starts in the morning, heat-soaked traffic later in the day, repeated downhill braking, and increased vehicle mass all affect friction stability and heat management.

This is where upgrading rotor capability becomes a practical discussion rather than a performance pitch.

Features of DBA’s 4000 Series Disc Brake Rotors

DBA says while it has built its reputation in performance environments, much of that engineering directly applies to heavy touring use.

DBA 4000 Series rotors have been designed to manage sustained thermal load rather than the short bursts of braking typical in daily commuting. For workshops, DBA says this makes them a relevant option when vehicles are preparing for extended holiday travel.

The patented Kangaroo Paw ventilation system uses a 144-pillar internal design to improve cooling efficiency compared with traditional straight-vane rotors.

For drivers heading through areas such as the Blue Mountains or the Great Dividing Range, improved heat dissipation helps maintain a consistent pedal feel and reduces fade during prolonged descents.

DBA’s bi-directional “T3” slot pattern on the 4000 Series rotors assist in clearing gas, dust and debris from the pad interface.

This supports a stable friction surface across wide temperature changes, from cool early starts to sustained downhill braking later in the day. In real-world touring conditions, DBA says that consistency is what drivers notice.

Beyond the “iconic” T3 slot design, DBA explains the 4000 Series is available in additional surface options to suit different vehicles and driving needs. HD rotors offer a smooth, OE-style finish for everyday driving, while XS Gold provides enhanced thermal performance for more demanding conditions, and XD is engineered for extreme-duty applications.

DBA says this range allows workshops to match the rotor to the customer’s vehicle and planned use without compromising reliability or consistency.

High-carbon metallurgy meanwhile improves thermal stability and resistance to cracking under repeated heat cycles.

The thermographic paint markings on DBA 4000 Series rotors also allow workshops to visually assess peak operating temperatures during inspections, with DBA noting that showing customers clear evidence of heat exposure makes the recommendation easier to understand.

Coverage which matches the Australian vehicle mix

DBA 4000 Series rotors cover a wide range of vehicles common in Australian workshops, including family SUVs, dual-cab utes, 4WDs and performance cars.

DBA says this broad application allows workshops to make consistent recommendations across their customer base during peak travel periods.

For more information, visit www.dba.com.au

SEE BRAKES LIKE NEVER BEFORE WITH THERMAL IMAGING

TopDon’s TC002C Duo is a compact thermal camera transforming brake inspection

Brakes are the unsung heroes of every vehicle, quietly ensuring safety on every stop – yet many drivers only notice problems after they appear, such as longer stopping distances, unusual noises, or a caliper sticking at the worst possible moment. Subtle issues like uneven brake pad wear, minor caliper sticking, or overheating bearings often go unnoticed until they become serious, leaving both car owners and technicians scrambling.

TopDon says this is where its TC002C Duo comes in, as a compact thermal camera which transforms brake inspection into a fast, intuitive, and noninvasive process.

Lightweight and intuitive, it plugs directly into a smartphone or tablet, instantly revealing temperature differences across rotors, pads, and calipers in crisp, high-resolution thermal images. Even if you have little automotive experience, TopDon says you can just download the TopInfrared App, the integrated TopFix AI make complex diagnostics accessible, offering professional-level guidance and recommendations in real time.

TopDon invites you to imagine this: after a short drive with gentle braking, a driver scans the brakes and sees uneven heat distribution across a rotor. The thermal image helps interpret the pattern, giving actionable insights before a minor issue becomes a serious problem.

Technicians benefit too: thermal imaging allows them to quickly pinpoint areas of concern, reduce unnecessary disassembly, and generate precise temperature reports, streamlining maintenance like never before.

Thermal imaging catches problems invisible to the naked eye. Uneven brake pad wear, caliper binding, or overheating bearings show up immediately, making what was once hidden obvious.

By capturing maximum and minimum temperatures during normal driving tests, users gain actionable insights without dismantling a single component.

TopDon says the result is confidence, efficiency, and peace of mind, whether in a professional workshop or a personal garage.

PRECISION IN EVERY SHIFT

Exedy Australia says this is the commitment it makes to the Aftermarket

In today’s evolving automotive landscape, workshops and performance specialists are navigating vehicles that are more powerful, more refined and more technically advanced than ever before.

As engine outputs increase and driver expectations rise, the importance of a high-quality clutch system becomes even more critical.

Exedy Australia says it understands that the clutch is not simply a replacement part, it is a performance component that directly influences drivability, reliability and overall vehicle character.

With deep roots in OEM manufacturing and a strong global presence, Exedy Australia says it brings original equipment expertise directly into the Australian aftermarket.

It states that its engineering philosophy is grounded in precision, consistency and application-specific design; and notes that rather than offering generic solutions, it develops clutch systems tailored to suit the unique demands of street performance, heavyduty use, motorsport and commercial applications.

For performance enthusiasts and modified vehicles, Exedy Australia says its Sports Tuff range provides increased torque capacity while maintaining smooth engagement suitable for daily driving.

Stepping up further, the Ballistic Tuff and Devil

Clutch options are engineered for high-torque builds where rapid response and durability are essential.

Exedy Australia explains these systems are developed to manage heat and load without compromising pedal feel or engagement predictability.

Beyond performance, Exedy Australia also supports workshops servicing four-wheel drives, trade vehicles and rural customers.

The Safari Tuff and Truck Tuff clutches are designed to handle towing, sustained loads and harsh Australian conditions, delivering dependable operation where reliability is paramount.

Further, Exedy Australia’s Racing Clutch systems extend into competitive motorsport, while Agri Tuff solutions cater to agricultural and industrial environments where durability under constant strain is non-negotiable.

Every Exedy Australia clutch benefits from advanced friction materials, precision manufacturing, and stringent quality control processes.

Exedy Australia says the result is consistent pedal feel, accurate fitment and long service life; reducing comebacks and supporting workshop efficiency.

For car owners, the TC002C Duo turns what used to be an intimidating, technical task into an intuitive, visual experience.

For technicians, TopDon says it is a time saving, diagnostic powerhouse. Across both groups, the benefits are said to be clear: early fault detection, safer driving, and reduced risk of costly repairs.

With the TC002C Duo, TopDon says thermal imaging doesn’t just measure heat, it gives you control, visibility, and certainty over your brakes while hidden problems become visible, maintenance becomes smarter, and every journey is safer and more secure.

For more information, visit www.topdon.com

For trade professionals, Exedy Australia says this means confidence at installation and peace of mind for customers.

As members of the Australian automotive aftermarket community, Exedy Australia says it remains committed to supporting workshops with reliable supply, technical expertise and a product range that evolves alongside modern vehicles.

The team at Exedy Australia states, “performance, durability and drivability are not competing priorities, they are engineered together. At Exedy Australia, we deliver clutch solutions designed to perform in real-world conditions — every vehicle, every shift, every drive.”

For more information or to place an order, contact Exedy Australia on 1300 366 592 or sales@exedyaustralia.com.au or visit www.exedyaustralia.com.au

SMALL PARTS, BIG DIFFERENCE IN BRAKE AND DRIVELINE REPAIRS

If you ask workshops what causes the most headaches, “comebacks” is always high on the list

Febest Auto Parts Australia says that most of the time, when it comes to comebacks, it is not the big-ticket item that causes the issue – it is the supporting parts that were tired, worn, or damaged, but didn’t get replaced during the job.

Australian conditions don’t make it easy on braking or driveline systems: heat, dust, water, rough roads, and constant stop-start driving all accelerate wear.

Rubber boots crack, seals harden, grease escapes, and moisture finds its way into places it shouldn’t. The symptoms are familiar: noisy brakes, uneven pad wear, sticking calipers, clicking CV joints, vibration under load, and customer complaints that the car “doesn’t feel right.”

Febest Auto Parts Australia says that is why more workshops are leaning toward repairing the system properly, not just replacing the most obvious part.

In the brakes category, caliper service items and hardware can make a huge difference to how a job performs long term.

Worn slide hardware, perished dust boots and seals, and binding components can lead to heat build-up and premature pad and rotor wear.

Replacing the supporting parts during a brake service helps calipers operate smoothly and can reduce the chance of uneven braking.

In the driveline space, CV boots are a great example of a small component with a big impact.

Once a boot splits, contamination and grease loss can quickly turn into joint wear, noise and vibration.

Catching it early and fitting a quality replacement boot or a complete joint and boot kit can help prevent a bigger repair later and keeps the customer’s costs under control.

Febest Auto Parts Australia explains that it supports workshops and resellers with a practical range across brakes and driveline service parts, focusing on the items that help complete the job properly.

For wholesalers, it says these categories are

steady performers with repeat demand and strong cross-sell alongside pads, rotors, wheel bearings and suspension.

When workshops have easy access to the right supporting components, everyone benefits: the vehicle performs as expected, the customer is happier, and the workshop avoids repeat work that can be prevented.

For more information, check out the Febest Auto Parts online catalogue, available at www.febest.com.au

TECHNICAL INFORMATION TO KEEP YOU PROFITABLE

Don’t have customers come back for jobs or warning lights lighting up the dashboard

As vehicles become smarter, heavier and increasingly electrified, keeping them safely and reliably on the road is less about guesswork and more about having the right information, the right tools, and a practical understanding of rapidly evolving technology.

Brakes, clutches, and drivelines may still be mechanical at their core, but they are no longer simple.

Electronic parking brakes, integrated stability systems, dual-clutch transmissions and sophisticated 4WD and AWD setups mean these systems now rely heavily on electronic control and precise calibration.

Whether servicing a modern EV, a late-model passenger vehicle or a classic 4WD, understanding how power is transferred, controlled, and managed has never been more critical.

That demand for accuracy only intensifies when we turn to auto electrical and lighting systems.

From CAN-bus networks and ADAS sensors to LED, matrix and adaptive lighting, modern vehicle electrics leave little room for trial and error.

Efficient diagnosis now depends on understanding wiring logic, system interactions and known manufacturer fixes, not simply replacing components and hoping for the best.

This is where professional information solutions such as HaynesPro play a vital role, say those behind the tool.

Infopro Digital explains that its HaynesPro is a comprehensive online workshop information system for automotive professionals offering industry-leading features.

It offers a vast database of multilingual automotive OEM- based data for cars, light commercial vehicles, and heavy trucks, helping technicians diagnose, maintain, and repair vehicles efficiently.

“Backed by providing the trade with repair and service data for over 35 years globally, HaynesPro delivers comprehensive OEM-based service, repair, and diagnostic data for cars, motorcycles, and trucks across more makes and models,”

Infopro Digital Senior Business Manager, Joe Panto, said.

“Tools like the Vehicle Electronic Smart Assistant

(VESA) help technicians interpret multiple fault codes at once, linking them to verified fixes, Technical Service Bulletins, and expert insights that reduce diagnostic time and non-billable hours.

“With strong coverage of dealer-delivered vehicles across Australia and New Zealand and expanding hybrid and EV data, HaynesPro supports workshops as technology continues to advance.

“So, while technicians of the past may have relied on instinct alone, today’s workshops can’t.

“Knowledge, precision and trusted technical information are what keep workshops profitable.” For more information, visit www.infopro-digital.com

SMART SOLUTIONS

When it comes to building a clean, compliant and high-performing engine bay, the details matter

Aeroflow says this is where its latest master cylinder remote reservoirs and flexible aluminium ducting step in with purpose-built solutions designed to simplify installation while delivering professional results.

Remote Master Cylinder Reservoirs

Aeroflow’s master cylinder remote reservoirs are engineered to solve a common problem in modern performance builds: lack of space.

With engine bays becoming increasingly crowded thanks to turbo systems, intercooler plumbing and upgraded induction components, relocating your brake or clutch fluid fill point can make a significant difference to accessibility and serviceability.

Each reservoir holds 120ml (4oz) of fluid and allows the fill point to be mounted remotely wherever it best suits your layout.

A front-mounted sight glass level indicator provides a clear visual reference of fluid level – a practical feature that not only simplifies maintenance checks but also helps satisfy engineering and compliance requirements.

Manufactured for both durability and aesthetics, the reservoirs are available in polished aluminium or black anodised finishes to suit your engine bay theme.

They are supplied with a male -3AN adapter and feature a female 9/16”-18 thread, giving you the flexibility to mount directly to a master cylinder if required.

Flexible Aluminium Ducting

Complementing the reservoirs is Aeroflow’s semi-rigid flexible ducting pipe, a lightweight yet strong corrugated aluminium solution designed for versatile airflow management.

Constructed from continuous spiral-bound aluminium with a unique interlocked and knotted seam, Aeroflow says the ducting offers impressive strength while remaining highly flexible.

The structure allows you to bend and form it to suit tight routing requirements, and its memoryretention design ensures it holds its shape and full internal diameter even when bends are applied.

Supplied in a compressed one-metre length that

TRW BRAKING PRODUCTS

ZF Aftermarket says TRW offers “one brand, zero stress braking”

With more than 120 years of experience, ZF Aftermarket says TRW is one of the world’s most trusted names in automotive braking and safety solutions.

As one of its brands, ZF Aftermarket explains that TRW “combines original equipment expertise with proven aftermarket reliability, delivering a level of engineering and validation few can match.”

TRW designs braking systems for more than half of all rear axle systems worldwide, building much of the original equipment they are fitted with when they roll out of the factory.

That same OE-level engineering underpins its replacement range, which ZF says ensures workshops and technicians can rely on consistent quality, performance, and safety throughout a vehicle’s life.

The local TRW brake program includes more than 9,000 part numbers, covering everything required for a complete braking service.

From brake pads and high-carbon brake discs to hydraulics such as hoses, master and slave cylinders, calipers, repair kits, and essential consumables including brake fluid, grease, and cleaner, TRW “truly offers a zero stress onestop braking solution for workshops,” says ZF Aftermarket.

Its brake pads are designed and manufactured at TRW’s own factories in Europe, North America and China to meet or exceed ECE R90 rating –a European regulation which mandates that all replacement brake pads be tested and approved to ensure they perform comparably to the original equipment.

This development process is supported by ZF’s own rigorous validation regime, which includes more than 17 different tests such as Alpine testing, AK-Master, and advanced AMS simulation.

TRW brake pads with COTEC coating deliver high friction from the first stop, reportedly reducing stopping distances by up to 47 percent during bedding-in. Independent tests are said to show up to seven metres shorter braking, and around 95 percent braking power immediately after installation.

TRW brake pads are also free of heavy metals, making them environmentally friendly.

TRW has also developed DTEC, a premium quality ceramic brake pad which reduces brake dust exfoliation onto the surface of the wheel rim by up to 45 percent, all while making less noise.

TRW produces 12 million brake discs every year for both original equipment and the independent aftermarket worldwide, with those behind the

expands to just over three metres, Aeroflow says it is easy to transport and store while providing ample coverage for custom applications.

Ideal for channelling cold air into intake and induction boxes, brake cooling ducts and a wide range of motorsport or street performance uses, Aeroflow says this ducting delivers both practicality and performance.

Together, Aeroflow says these new components offer smart, adaptable solutions for builders who demand performance, presentation and compliance in equal measure.

For more information, visit www.aeroflowperformance.com

brand stating it delivers cutting-edge technology designed for real-world performance and safety.

Its industry-first Black Painted Brake Discs offer superior corrosion resistance, a premium gloss finish, and convenient oil-free installation thanks to VCI packaging.

TRW High Carbon Discs exceed manufacturer standards, providing cooler operation, reduced distortion, improved stability, and quieter braking. Each disc is manufactured with high-quality cast iron, tight machining tolerances, and optional integrated bearings or ABS rings, ensuring precision fit, durability, and reliable braking performance.

TRW also tests its brake fluids to the extreme to ensure they exceed international DOT standards, with products available for a wide range of vehicles.

For more information on the TRW braking range, please visit www.zf.com/au

BRAKE, CLUTCH & DRIVELINE

AUSTRALIAN ENGINEERED, GLOBALLY PROVEN

Clutch Industries is committed to delivering practical, high-performance clutch solutions

Founded in 1951 as Repco Clutch during the rise of local vehicle manufacturing, those behind Clutch Industries say it has evolved alongside the Australian automotive industry, earning a reputation for technical capability, durability, and performance under pressure.

From its early involvement in OE supply and motorsport, including components used in a Championship-winning Brabham Formula One car, through to landmark developments such as the twin-disc clutch fitted to the iconic Ford XY GT-HO, Clutch Industries says it has consistently demonstrated that Australian engineering can compete on a global stage.

As domestic manufacturing declined, the business adapted – restructuring, refocusing, and ultimately re-emerging as Clutch Industries in 2002 with a clear aftermarket and innovation-led strategy.

That focus has resulted in six patented technologies – which Clutch Industries says is the most of any Australian clutch manufacturer – developed through a combination of in-house engineering, rigorous testing, and constant feedback from workshops and end users.

Built for real-world demands: 4Terrain

In 2006, Clutch Industries turned its attention to the rapidly growing 4WD market with the launch of 4Terrain, a clutch range engineered specifically for the realities of modern four-wheel driving.

Unlike conventional upgrades, Clutch Industries explains 4Terrain was designed to address the compounding stresses created by larger tyres, increased vehicle mass, towing loads, and off-road use. Key features include:

• High-capacity cover assembly, balancing increased clamp load with minimum pedal effort increase.

• Low-fade dual-friction aramid materials to increase torque capacity while extending service life.

• Spheroidal Graphite (SG) iron pressure plates for superior strength and durability –particularly critical during heat cycling and water crossings.

• Patented ER2 technology, a precision CNCmachined groove in the pressure plate that increases torque capacity and improves heat dissipation

Clutch Industries says the result is a system trusted not only by consumers globally, but also by defence and fleet users operating in extreme conditions.

One of the most popular offerings within the range is the 4Terrain Heavy Duty program, supported by Repco and NAPA.

With stock held in most branches and competitive pricing, Clutch Industries says workshops can access proven heavy-duty solutions quickly, helping them offer more choice and faster turnaround for customers.

Workshop-driven innovation

Clutch Industries’ product development is strongly influenced by trade feedback.

In 2017, the company began including alignment tools and spigot bearings in most clutch kits, reducing installation time and eliminating the need for additional parts.

Further feedback highlighted a persistent issue: wasted hoist time and customer inconvenience caused by flywheel grinding.

In response, Clutch Industries launched its flywheel program in 2020, pricing new flywheels comparably to machining once labour downtime is considered.

Supported by Repco and NAPA, and stocked in most branches, workshops can now replace clutches and flywheels in a single job, improving efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Performance without compromise: UniClutch

That same philosophy underpins UniClutch, Clutch Industries’ performance and enthusiast range.

Designed around maximum vehicle coverage and modular adaptability, Clutch Industries says UniClutch addresses one of the biggest challenges in modern performance workshops: increasing power levels, expanding platform variation, and the need to maintain drivability.

It states UniClutch allows workshops and enthusiasts to tailor solutions for everything from lightly modified street vehicles through to high-performance builds, without the harsh engagement traditionally associated with performance clutches.

The result is said to be greater flexibility, reduced complexity, and confidence that performance gains won’t come at the expense of everyday usability.

Developing engineers, not just products

For many years, Clutch Industries has partnered with the University of Melbourne’s mechanical engineering internship program, providing students with hands-on experience in real-world automotive engineering and R&D.

Several members of the current Clutch Industries engineering team began their careers through this pathway, highlighting the program’s value in developing industry-ready engineers.

By combining academic insight with practical validation, the partnership benefits both students and Clutch Industries – bringing fresh thinking into product development while ensuring engineering decisions are tested against real operating conditions.

Still Australian, still engineering-led

Seventy-five years on, Clutch Industries explains that it remains Australian owned and operated, continuing to invest in engineering, testing, and product development driven by real-world conditions.

With products distributed through Repco, NAPA, and leading automotive parts suppliers across Australia, New Zealand, and global markets, the business says it remains focused on delivering practical, high-performance clutch solutions that work, for workshops and drivers alike.

For more information, visit www.clutchindustries.com.au

CANBERRA KID BUILDS AFTERMARKET LEGACY THROUGH PASSION AND PERSISTENCE

From sweeping dealership floors in Canberra to building a leading automotive marketing agency, Dale Brittain continues shaping the industry while balancing DBC2 and a new role with Out There Group

The Australian automotive aftermarket has produced its share of colourful personalities over the years, but few have carved out a career quite like Dale Brittain.

From a teenage parts trainee in Canberra to the founder of a respected automotive marketing agency and now a key commercial leader at Out There Group, Dale’s journey is a classic example of how passion, persistence and relationships can shape a career in the automotive world.

It is also a story about someone who never planned the path he eventually took.

“I actually wanted to be a chef,” Dale admits with a laugh.

“Cooking was something I loved and still love today.”

Instead, a simple newspaper advertisement changed the course of his life.

From Canberra dealership to automotive career

Dale was born and raised in Canberra to English parents who migrated to Australia as part of the “Ten Pound Pom” scheme. Like many Australian families of the era, cars played a central role in daily life.

His father was a devoted Holden fan and owned what Dale still remembers as the best car the family ever had – an HX GTS Monaro.

“We didn’t have a lot of money growing up, but that Monaro was dad’s pride and joy,” he recalls.

Trips to Canberra’s local speedway also left a strong impression.

“My earliest memories of cars were going to the

speedway to watch Sprintcars. That was the biggest thrill I could remember as a kid.”

Despite the automotive influence, Dale initially stayed on the academic path, enrolling in college for Years 11 and 12.

That lasted four days.

“I got to the fourth day of college and thought, ‘I really don’t want to be here,’” he says.

Scanning the job ads in the newspaper that week, he spotted a position for a parts trainee at a multifranchise car dealership. He called at 2.00pm, interviewed at 4.00pm and started the next day.

Dale was just 15 years and 10 months old.

His early tasks included sweeping floors and learning the fundamentals of the parts department across brands including Volkswagen, Honda, Subaru, Fiat, Lancia, and Audi.

“The minute I got into that role, I knew I was in the right place,” he says.

Rising quickly through the dealership ranks

Dale progressed quickly through the dealership system.

Within six years he had moved into management roles and by the age of 21 he was running the parts department. By 26 he had become group general manager, overseeing dealership and parts operations across multiple sites.

Along the way, a mentor recognised something that would shape the next stage of his career.

“A general manager said to me, ‘you’ve got a real flair for marketing,’” he recalls.

Dale began studying marketing while continuing to work in the automotive sector, eventually moving

into a marketing role with Canberra Carparts –a business that would later become part of the Autobarn chain in the ACT.

“My passion for marketing and cars just seemed to work really well together,” he says.

The dot-com detour

Like many ambitious professionals in the late 1990s, Dale became fascinated by the rapidly expanding internet sector.

At the height of the dot-com boom he joined Asia Online as marketing manager for the Asia-Pacific region, managing an $11 million marketing budget.

Part of that budget went into motorsport sponsorship, including backing Supercars driver John Faulkner.

The experience exposed a major gap in the market.

“There was no sponsor activation agency back then,” he says.

“There was nobody helping sponsors leverage what they were spending.”

Recognising the opportunity, Dale decided to create his own business.

Launching DBC

In 2000 he resigned from his corporate role and launched DBC – Dale Brittain Consulting – focusing on helping companies maximise sponsorship and marketing opportunities around motorsport.

Within four days of launching the business he received a call from OzEmail, which was sponsoring Brad Jones Racing.

Dale’s first event was the Adelaide 500. Soon after, Brad and Kim Jones invited him to work directly with the team.

“They said, ‘we want you to come and work for us instead of the sponsor,’” Dale recalls.

He accepted and spent several years working with BJR while building DBC’s reputation across the motorsport paddock.

At one point the agency was working with six Supercars teams simultaneously.

Expanding beyond motorsport

While motorsport provided an entry point, Dale quickly realised the broader automotive aftermarket offered larger opportunities.

DBC began working with industry companies providing marketing, PR and strategic support.

Early corporate clients included Rare Spares and Fuchs lubricants, while other projects involved managing commercial programs for categories such as Touring Car Masters and the V8 Utes.

“Motorsport was part of the business, but the majority of our work was marketing,” Dale explains.

The agency also worked with major automotive lifestyle events including Summernats, helping Dale develop an extensive network across the aftermarket sector.

The move to Melbourne

A major turning point came in 2010 when Dale relocated the business from Canberra to Melbourne – widely regarded as the hub of the Australian automotive aftermarket.

The move carried risk but quickly delivered results. Within nine months the agency grew from four employees to 16 as new clients came on board.

The business also evolved into DBC2, reflecting its transition into a broader full-service marketing agency focused heavily on the automotive aftermarket.

Seeing digital before the industry

One of Dale’s most important decisions was launching a digital marketing division around the same time.

In 2010 many aftermarket companies were still cautious about online marketing. Dale believed the shift was inevitable.

“I knew it was coming,” he says.

For two years the digital division operated without clients, costing the business significant money.

But when the aftermarket began embracing social media, digital advertising and online content, DBC2 was already positioned to deliver.

“If we hadn’t built that capability early, I don’t think the agency would have thrived the way it did,” Dale says.

Building a culture around cars

Throughout its growth, DBC2 maintained a culture built around genuine automotive enthusiasm.

Dale prioritised hiring car enthusiasts first and marketers second.

“Skills can be taught, attitude can’t,” he explains.

“I’d rather employ people who love cars and teach them marketing, rather than hire marketers and try to turn them into car people.”

Project vehicles also became part of the agency’s culture, including high-profile modified Mustangs producing more than 850 horsepower.

Celebrating 25 years

By 2025 the business reached a milestone few agencies achieve – 25 years in operation.

“I’ve always considered myself a knockabout bloke from Canberra who had something to prove,” Dale says.

“When we hit 25 years and I saw everything we’d achieved, it was the first time I really stopped and thought, ‘We’ve actually done something pretty special.’”

A new chapter with Out There Group

With the agency well established, Dale began considering new challenges.

That opportunity arrived through Andy Lopez and Out There Group, the company behind major automotive lifestyle events including Summernats and MotorEx.

Dale had known Andy for years and had already been advising the business.

Eventually Andy asked him to consider joining the company formally.

Dale accepted the role of head of commercial and partnerships, developing new commercial opportunities across the company’s portfolio of events.

“It’s amazing to have a blank canvas at this stage of my career,” he says.

“I get to build something new and do it my way.”

Family matters

Away from the business, family remains an important part of Dale’s life.

His son Mitch spent 14 years working inside the agency before forging his own path in motorsport, where he now heads commercial operations for a Supercars team.

Dale says the change has allowed their relationship to evolve from boss and employee back to simply father and son.

His daughter Mackenzie works in early childhood education in Melbourne and shares many of her father’s interests in the outdoors, including fourwheel driving and jet skiing.

Balancing two worlds

Despite the new role, Dale has not walked away from the agency he built.

DBC2 continues operating with a dedicated team managing day-to-day work while Dale remains involved strategically.

“I still work with our clients on strategy and that’s something I really enjoy,” he says.

Looking back on his career, Dale believes the key to success in the automotive aftermarket remains simple – relationships!

“If you’re starting out in this industry, build your network,” he says.

“It’s an industry that supports its people incredibly well.”

For the Canberra kid who once thought he might become a chef, it has been quite a ride – and the next chapter is only just beginning.

To learn more about DBC and Out There Group, visit www. dbc2.com.au and www.outthereproductions.com.au

STREAMLINING THE AFTERMARKET FRONT OFFICE

MoPro ERP Plus is evolving to help wholesale distributors grow

Markinson says MoPro ERP Plus is built for the fast-paced world of automotive parts and accessories, where efficiency is essential for managing thousands of part numbers, complex supersessions and tiered trade pricing.

Unlike generic software, Markinson says MoPro ERP Plus – a modern web-based extension of its established wholesale platform – is engineered around real-world automotive supply logic, recognising that a wholesaler’s needs differ from a retailer’s.

From bulk imports to specialised component tracking, the platform is designed to ensure data moves efficiently through the business; with the cloud-ready solution taking a step forward in usability while simplifying inventory management. With a clean layout and intuitive navigation, staff can move through large product catalogues quickly, reducing administrative time and allowing greater focus on customers.

Speed and precision at the counter

For parts businesses, the key moment is the trade counter, where speed and accuracy matter most.

Markinson says MoPro ERP Plus supports staff with real-time stock visibility across branches, automatic application of account pricing, and multi-branch oversight for better stock and purchasing decisions.

Markinson Product Manager Bennett Humphries said the system builds on a platform already trusted by wholesale businesses.

“MoPro ERP Plus is designed to simplify how automotive trade businesses operate,” Markinson Product Manager, Bennett Humphries, said.

“Now with a modern, web-based interface connected to real-time data, we are helping partners adapt to operating in the digital age while maintaining the reliability required for highvolume distribution.”

For more information contact Markinson on 1300 137 729 or email info@markinson.com.au

AI INTERPRETATION ENGINES TURN MANUAL AUTO PARTS QUOTES INTO A REVENUE PRINTING PRESS

In the time-sensitive and highly competitive world of the Australian automotive aftermarket, the difference between a record month and a missed opportunity often comes down to a matter of minutes

For over a decade, those behind SQiBLE say it has been a consistent presence in the sector, working behind the scenes to help industry leaders navigate the complexities of parts supply via Warehouse Management, Delivery Optimisation, and ERP implementation.

Now, SQiBLE says a shift is occurring in the landscape that appears less like an incremental improvement and more like a total industrial revolution, driven by the emergence of its VPI (Virtual Parts Interpreter) Agent.

The traditional workflow, one that many warehouses still rely on, is a manual grind. When a quote request hits an inbox, a highly skilled parts interpreter must pause their work to decode unstructured human descriptions and manually cross-reference them with an ERP or EPC.

It is a process that typically consumes five to ten minutes per quote. While experts are tethered to keyboards performing repetitive tasks, competitors are circling, and revenue is often hitting a hard ceiling dictated by manual typing speeds.

SQiBLE says the VPI Agent changes that dynamic. Unlike generic AI that simply scans for keywords, this technology is powered by the proprietary BRAiN platform and is purpose-built to replicate the logic of a master interpreter.

It doesn’t just read a request; it interprets the specific vehicle, identifies the part type, and understands the exact position, distinguishing between a Left Hand Front or a Right Hand Rear, to automate the reply in seconds.

SQiBLE says the results reported by the industry have been transformational. Some businesses have slashed manual quoting labour by 75 percent, effectively reclaiming twenty working hours per week of processing time. For one major auto parts group, clearing a massive backlog of unprocessed quotes reportedly acted as a “Revenue Printing Press,” boosting annual turnover by $20 million.

“It has generated the greatest returns of any project I’ve ever been a part of,” SQiBLE Chief Technology Officer, Ty Osborne, said.

“It lowers the staff burden, lowers cost, and significantly increases processing volume.

“The goal was never to replace people but to empower them. By offloading the ‘easy’ 90 percent of bulk quotes to the VPI Agent, businesses are upskilling their interpreters into high-value sales roles, creating a compounding effect on revenue.”

The precision of the system is a key differentiator, says SQiBLE. It states that by achieving a near 90 percent accuracy rate, the VPI Agent frequently catches the human errors that naturally occur during high-volume manual entry.

It says that in some operations, the automation has become so seamless that the first human hand to touch an order is the one packing it at the shipping dock.

For an industry that has spent years in “manual gear,” SQiBLE says this technology offers a path toward a high-velocity future.

To demonstrate exactly how this AI interpretation engine can be integrated into existing ecosystems, whether using a legacy ERP or EPC. SQiBLE is hosting an exclusive webinar on the 19th of March.

The session will provide a firsthand look at how the VPI Agent is helping the automotive aftermarket turn quoting departments into autonomous engines of growth.

For more information, visit www.sqible.com.au

SERVICES MODERN VEHICLES CHANGED. DID WORKSHOP OPERATIONS?

Across the aftermarket, components are now increasingly integrated with electronics, sensors, control units and software

The complexity of modern vehicles means technicians rely heavily on accurate information, structured workflows, consistent data capture, clear histories, documented diagnostics and visibility across previous work.

As vehicle systems become more intelligent, the margin for miscommunication becomes smaller. Modern workshops must ensure that diagnostic findings, customer approvals, parts sourcing, and technician notes remain connected throughout the life of the job.

When that chain breaks down, the risk is both technical and commercial.

Rework, delays, and unclear job histories can erode both efficiency and customer confidence.

This is why discussions around workshop management systems are increasingly important.

As vehicles and customer expectations continue to evolve, workshops will need to place greater emphasis on clarity, consistency, and control across their daily operations.

From the moment a booking is created through

to invoicing and follow-up communication, having connected processes helps reduce uncertainty and improve visibility.

Clear job histories, structured workflows, and reliable record-keeping support both technicians and front-of-house teams.

When information flows smoothly between quoting, approvals, parts ordering, and final billing, workshops are better equipped to minimise delays, avoid misunderstandings, and maintain professional standards.

As operational demands grow, the role of wellstructured workshop management systems becomes an increasingly important part of running a sustainable, scalable business.

It is no surprise that this broader operational conversation is becoming more prevalent across the industry, particularly as the aftermarket prepares for major gatherings such as the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAE) at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) in May. Events like AAAE are not just about vehicle components on display.

They offer an opportunity to step back and consider how evolving vehicle technology is shaping workshop workflow, business systems, and longterm growth.

It is a chance for the industry to come together, share perspectives, and explore practical ways to adapt to increasing complexity.

Exhibitors, including Megabus Software at Booth M48, look forward to being part of those conversations and connecting with workshops navigating these changes every day.

For more information, visit www.megabus.com.au

RECOGNISING THE HIDDEN COST OF OPERATIONAL COMPLEXITY IN AUTOMOTIVE ECOMMERCE

Automotive retailers are losing revenue to their own back-end systems

Australian automotive parts retailers are sitting on significant growth potential.

“They have the stock, the customers, and the industry knowledge. In our experience working with automotive retailers across Australia, the opportunity is already there,” MindArc Co-Founder and Director, Sean Pieres, said.

Sean explains that what gets in the way is the operational weight that builds up inside the systems quietly running the business.

“As we work alongside auto parts retailers, we hear the same frustrations surfacing time and again,” Sean said.

“The team is spending hours manually calculating freight for mixed-goods orders. Product data is spread across spreadsheets, half the attributes are duplicated, and nobody’s confident the fitment information is accurate.

“The website is technically live, but it is slow, the URLs are a mess, and the organic rankings reflect it. The platform, often a custom build or WooCommerce setup that made sense five years ago, now requires constant developer intervention just to stay functional.”

In short, the technology running the business is quietly costing more than anyone has measured.

“This is the operational drag that’s become endemic across the Australian automotive aftermarket. And it compounds fast,” Sean said.

VACC MOTORTECH

“Manual freight logic that takes 20 minutes per order. Vehicle fitment data that is inconsistent across thousands of SKUs. Duplicate products for a SKU that fits multiple vehicle platforms, spread across dozens, diluting SEO value and confusing customers.

“International operations are running on separate, disconnected platforms. Each of these is a solvable problem in isolation, but together, they consume the operational bandwidth that should be driving growth.”

MindArc is a Shopify Platinum Partner with hands-on experience solving eCommerce complexity for Australian automotive retailers like Auto One, PPD Performance, Carparts2u and XForce Performance Exhausts.

“We work with parts retailers to cut through that complexity, replacing legacy platforms with Shopify Plus and building the automated systems that give operations teams their time back,” Sean said.

“When the right systems are in place, the shift is significant. Freight calculations that once took hours run automatically. Vehicle fitment data stays accurate across tens of thousands of SKUs without manual intervention. Orders are tagged, routed, and processed with minimal touchpoints. The operations team stops firefighting the platform and starts focusing on growth.”

To help automotive retailers get there faster,

The VACC says every modern workshop needs VACC MotorTech in its corner

For busy workshops, the challenge isn’t just repairing vehicles, it is finding the right information quickly and having confidence that the solution is correct.

VACC MotorTech is designed as a practical, everyday resource for workshops, combining trusted technical information, expert support, and real-world problem solving in one subscription. At its core is access to a comprehensive online technical database covering a wide range of vehicles and systems.

Instead of juggling multiple platforms, outdated manuals or unreliable online forums, VACC MotorTech reportedly provides a single, dependable source for service procedures, specifications, wiring diagrams, diagnostics guidance and repair information.

VACC MotorTech also goes beyond information alone, with the VACC stating that one of VACC MotorTech’s most valued features is TechLine – direct phone access to qualified automotive technicians based in Melbourne.

These experienced professionals understand the realities of workshop life and when a diagnosis proves difficult or a repair path isn’t clear, TechLine connects you to someone who can help you find the information to resolve the issue efficiently and confidently, says VACC.

A VACC MotorTech subscription also includes Tech Talk, the monthly print magazine which has supported workshops for four decades.

Written by technicians for technicians, Tech Talk focuses on real workshop challenges – common faults, emerging technologies and practical repair insights.

“Importantly, VACC MotorTech is backed by the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC), an organisation with more than 100 years of experience supporting the automotive industry,” VACC Chief Executive Officer, Peter Jones, said.

“That depth of knowledge ensures VACC

MindArc offers an Automotive Commerce Accelerator: a structured migration and build package designed specifically for parts retailers moving off legacy platforms.

It includes vehicle fitment database integration, registration lookup functionality, AI-powered part consolidation, intelligent freight automation, and an automotive-optimised Shopify theme.

“The technology to solve these problems exists. The bigger question for most automotive retailers is whether their current platform is capable of supporting it,” Sean said.

“If your operations team is spending more time managing your platform than growing your business, we’re here to help.

“Book an obligation-free consultation and we’ll work through where the bottlenecks are, how to remove them, and what the path forward looks like for your business.”

For more information, visit www.mindarc.com or contact hello@mindarc.com.au or 1300 206 827.

MotorTech is built around the real needs of Australian workshops, not theory. In an industry where technology is advancing rapidly and margins are tight, trusted technical support is not a luxury, it is a business necessity.

“VACC MotorTech helps workshops reduce downtime, improve repair accuracy and support their technicians to deliver better outcomes for customers.”

To learn more, visit motortech.com.au or call 1300 130 116.

PARTS4 AUTOMOTIVE CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE

In 2026 more than 115 members are celebrating a quarter century for Parts4 Automotive

It all started in February 2001 when a small group of Automotive auto parts store owners gathered for a meal and a drink after work to discuss how they could take control of their own business, instead of being dictated to by the corporate model that was starting to dominate the automotive parts shops industry.

They entered a meeting room and after a good chunk of time passed, the group came out, shook hands, slapped each other on the back and left with a smile and an unmistakable sense of purpose: it was history in the making, marking the birth of Parts4 Automotive.

Fast forward to the present day, and there are more than 115 Parts4 P/L Automotive members across Australia celebrating 25 years of successful retailing.

Christina Hundahl was at the meeting with her husband Prab and nine other independent automotive businesses owners back in 2001.

Some people spend their entire life striving for recognition, while others have responsibility thrust upon them, and Christina certainly falls into the latter group.

“As it turned out, accompanying Prab to the meeting that day proved to be fortuitous,” Christina said.

“I ended up being the first Parts4 employee after walking out of that meeting as the secretary of the group, and with a glimpse of my family’s future.

“I can still remember the day my husband and nine other independent automotive businesses owners

met to discuss how they could join forces and combine their buying power to ease some of the pressure from the big chains.

“And 25 years later, there’s no doubt that the vision to form a group of truly independent automotive businesses has been realised.”

Late last year, Christina passed the baton on as the Parts4 secretary and administration manager after twenty-four years.

She has left a legacy that will continue for the future, but the rest of the business has changed significantly.

“Today Parts4 Automotive members across Australia all enjoy the benefits of being part of this powerful buying group while at the same time remaining fiercely independent,” Parts4 Automotive Business Development Manager, Kim Mamouney, said.

“The Parts4 model is attractive. It allows members to purchase stock at competitive pricing, provides them access to marketing and promotional activities, and above all, helps secure their future in this highly competitive industry.

“We’re not here to profit from our members. We’re here to help members to compete out in the marketplace, as more independents realise they need to be part of some sort of group so they can survive.

“That’s the benefit of joining Parts4: getting the benefit of buying as a group but still having control over your business.”

Parts4 Automotive members also enjoy a rebate program with national suppliers and low annual fees without being tethered to a lock-in contract, as well as assistance to pay for signage and a uniform allowance once they have been a member for 12 months.

“Parts4 Automotive want to take this opportunity to thank Christina for the 24 years of service to the group and I know that she will continue to take an interest in the group as it continues to develop,” Kim said.

“I also want to wish all Parts4 Automotive members a heartfelt congratulations on reaching this significant milestone.”

Parts4 Automotive is exhibiting at the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAE) in Melbourne in May on Stand F43.

To find out more about Parts4 Automotive, contact Kim Mamouney on 0418 532 307 or kim@parts4.com.au or visit www.parts4.com.au

JAX TYRES & AUTO THORNLEIGH CELEBRATES 15 YEARS

The franchisee Mark Dyball has actually been part of the wider JAX organisation since 1989

Late last year JAX Tyres & Auto Thornleigh franchise owner, Mark Dyball, proudly celebrated 15 years of delivering trusted automotive and tyre services to the local community.

Mark took over the Thornleigh store from his father in 2010, having been a part of the wider JAX organisation since 1989.

He is also in the midst of mentoring his own son as an apprentice, aiming to inspire a third generation of JAX Thornleigh ownership in his family.

Under Mark’s leadership, JAX Tyres & Auto says the Thornleigh location has continued to be associated with first-rate customer service and a commitment to finding the best solution for every driver.

Alongside exceptional levels of service, the network says Mark and JAX Thornleigh have made a conscious effort to be an integral part of the local community, supporting a number of organisations and projects over the last 15 years, including

Pennant Hills Lawn Bowls Club and Hotel Pennant Hills.

The business also offers free seminars in store for locals keen to learn some of the basics of vehicle maintenance, such as changing a tyre and checking oil level.

“It is a significant milestone to reach 15 years at the helm of the business – my father laid such incredible foundations and taught me so much while he was in charge, I just hope I’ve made him proud,” Mark said.

“My son is just about to complete his apprenticeship with the business and I’m enjoying showing him the ropes and continuing to pass on the knowledge I have, just as my father did.

“I’ve always thought it is important for local businesses to support local organisations and be an active member of the community; it is an aspect of things here at JAX that I feel extremely passionate about.”

During Mark’s tenure, the business has continually evolved, with the most recent innovation being the investment in a wheel repair machine – restoring rims and those whose vehicles have suffered at the hands of potholes.

Operating since 1949, JAX Tyres & Auto began its franchising journey in 1993 and has since grown into a national network of 95 locations, with 90 independently owned by franchisees. For more information, visit www.jax.com.au

JAX TYRES & AUTO CAIRNS COMES TO AID OF LOCAL RESIDENT

The Cairns franchise has provided a free full service for a resident after her vehicle was stolen

A Cairns resident, who was reeling at her vehicle being stolen and wrecked, has had her car completely repaired at no cost, thanks to the generosity of local suppliers.

Deborah Wilkinson was asleep in her Cairns home when her vehicle was stolen, and after seeing the severe damage followed by the unfortunate realisation her insurance policy was out-of-date, she was facing being out of pocket by more than $4,000.

After making an appeal on Facebook, Deborah and her family were left stunned at an outpouring of support from those in the community, and crucially, a number of organisations who collaborated to bring her Ford Ute back to life.

“It was a no-brainer for JAX Tyres & Auto to support Deborah and her family where we could –the car was in a bad state after it was unfortunately stolen from her home,” JAX Tyres & Auto Cairns Store Manager, Evan Billerwell, said.

“It started off with new tyres and a mechanical check, but it soon became clear that further work was required and we were keen to provide a full service.

“While we took the initiative, this wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the teams at Ace Mobile, Mr Minute, and NQ Crash who all contributed, it was great to see everyone rally together to support a local family who needed a helping hand.”

“I am absolutely blown away by the generosity of Evan and all the local organisations, who have provided me and my family with total emotional and financial relief when we most needed it,” Deborah said.

For more from JAX Tyres & Auto, visit www.jax.com.au

AUTO STOP TAKES THE CHEQUERED FLAG

Auto Stop has taken a standout victory in the Repco Authorised Service Race to Win promotion

Repco Authorised Service (RAS) member Michael Daly of Auto Stop is the envy of his mates after recently being handed the keys to the iconic RAS Mustang built by Showtime Kustom Garage and made famous on Supercars tracks across recent seasons of the Repco Supercars Championship.

Auto Stop was the winner in the exclusive Race to Win Promotion, which was unveiled at the National Convention in Bali and immediately ignited friendly rivalry and strong engagement across the RAS network.

In the five exciting months that followed, workshops across the country sharpened their performance and chased targets for a chance to be in the draw for the one off, unique, and coveted prize.

For Michael Daly, the moment was almost surreal.

“I still can’t believe it,” Michael said.

“Thank you so much, everyone – I’m honestly still shaking! Huge thanks to everyone who helped make this happen, and especially to my team for hitting the targets that got us into the draw. And a big thank you to everyone who’s happy for me – it truly means a lot and is very humbling.”

Michael also acknowledged the ongoing support of the Repco network, with a special mention to the team at Repco Coopers Plains for their continued backing of Auto Stop.

The Race to Win Promotion was exclusive to Repco Authorised Service members, with RAS stating the promotion further reinforced the value of being part of Australia’s largest network of independent workshops.

Alongside the iconic brand, technical support and business development tools, members gain access to unique opportunities and experiences that simply aren’t available elsewhere in the industry, explains RAS.

Repco Authorised Service National Manager, Peter Rogers, said the success of the promotion exceeded expectations.

“We were delighted with the enthusiasm this promotion created across the network,” Peter said.

“Congratulations to Michael and Eugine on this incredible win and many thanks to our supportive program partners for helping us to bring this to life.

“Promotions like this are about recognising the commitment of our members and celebrating our unique partnership.”

The Mustang itself has become something of a legend within RAS, having graced Supercars circuits around the country as part of the Repco Supercars Championship. Built and maintained by Showtime Kustom Garage, the car now begins its next chapter firmly within the RAS family.

“We’re sad to see the Mustang go, but we couldn’t be happier knowing it’s landed exactly where it belongs,” Showtime Kustom Garage’s Gary Reid said.

“It has been an incredible car, and to see it won by a passionate RAS member makes it even more special.”

Auto Stop is a well-established and respected name within the independent workshop sector. Celebrating 35 years in business, the Auto Stop group now spans three businesses, including two Repco Authorised Service workshops located in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, as well as a dedicated machine shop.

Known for technical expertise, customer trust and long-term commitment to quality, RAS says Auto Stop exemplifies the strength and professionalism of its network.

To learn more about Repco Authorised Service, visit www.repcoservice.com

NEW WHS OBLIGATIONS FOR DIGITAL WORK SYSTEMS IN NSW

On 12 February 2026, the Work Health and Safety Amendment (Digital Work Systems) Bill 2026 (NSW) (Bill) passed both houses of the New South Wales Parliament

The legislation introduces targeted amendments to the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW) (WHS Act) to address emerging risks from digital technologies used in the workplace.

The amendments respond to concerns about how algorithms, artificial intelligence, automation, and online platforms influence working conditions in various industries. Industries specifically identified when introducing the Bill to the NSW Parliament include warehouse distribution, logistics, and industries relying on gig work.

Overview of the amendments

The amendments to the WHS Act address workplace health and safety (WHS) in regard to digital tools used in the workplace by:

• creating specific duties for Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) that use digital work systems;

• expanding the powers of WHS entry permit holders to inspect digital work systems relevant to a contravention of the WHS Act; and

• providing for regulatory oversight through guidelines and future Ministerial review of the amendments.

The amendments reflect the growing use of digital work systems in workplaces and the risks arising from this, including its capacity to undermine worker safety and mental health, and fair treatment in disciplinary matters and the workplace generally.

What is a Digital Work System?

The amendments define a ‘digital work system’ as ‘an algorithm, artificial intelligence, automation or online platform.’

This definition is broad and captures a variety of systems, including digital tools used to allocate shifts, assign tasks, monitor performance or make decisions about pay and conditions.

New duties for PCBUs

The amendments insert a new section 21A into the WHS Act. This section places a positive duty on a PCBU to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the health and safety of a worker is not put at risk from the allocation of work by a digital work system used by the PCBU.

In particular, a PCBU must ensure that work allocation by or using a digital work system does not create or result in:

• excessive or unreasonable workloads;

• unreasonable performance metrics or work targets to assess and track the performance of workers;

• excessive or unreasonable monitoring or surveillance; and

• unlawful discriminatory practices or decisionmaking.

The duty applies in addition to existing WHS obligations.

Steps for PCBUs

PCBUs using systems that use algorithms, artificial intelligence or automation, or that are an online platform, should assess whether these systems are captured in the definition of ‘digital work systems.’

If the system is captured in the definition of ‘digital work system’, the PCBU must conduct a hazard assessment and, in line with new section 21A, consider if the allocation of work by or using the digital work system, creates or results in risks. If there are risks, take steps to eliminate those risks or, if that is not reasonably practicable, minimise the risk.

The PCBU should also consider other duties it continues to have under the WHS Act, including the general duty to provide a safe workplace, whether the system is a ‘digital work system’ or not.

Expanded powers for WHS entry permit holders

The legislation also expands the rights of WHS entry permit holders to access and inspect digital work systems when they reasonably suspect a WHS contravention.

Under the new provisions a permit holder may require the PCBU to provide reasonable assistance to access and inspect a digital work system relevant to the suspected contravention. This power is subject to guidelines issued by SafeWork NSW. Additionally, it may only be exercised if the WHS permit entry holder has given, during business hours, notice at least 48 hours before entry, but not more than 14 days before entry.

The WHS entry permit holder may not inspect or copy documents (which includes a record), where this would contravene another Commonwealth or State law (for example, privacy legislation).

These powers will not commence until one month after SafeWork NSW publishes the relevant guidelines.

Future review and national consistency

The Minister is required to review the amendments:

• 12 months after they commence, to consider whether the policy objectives remain valid,

the provisions remain appropriate to achieve the objectives, and the amendments have not resulted in any adverse outcome.

• once Safe Work Australia develops national model WHS laws (Model Law) addressing similar matters. The Minister is to consider whether the policy objectives remain valid, the provisions remain appropriate to achieve the objective, whether the Model Law provides a higher standard and whether the amendments remain appropriate in light of the Model Law.

This ensures the NSW amendments can adapt to national reforms and evolving best practices in regulating risks from digital work systems.

Practical implications for employers

The key take aways for PCBUs is to now:

• assess if digital tools and systems are ‘digital works systems’ (ie. meaning an algorithm, artificial intelligence, automation or online platform), conduct a hazard assessment and eliminate the risks, or if that is not reasonably practicable, minimise the risks;

• update WHS risk assessment procedures to include digital work systems;

• ensure policies and procedures address digital work system work-related risks, including workloads, metrics and surveillance; and

• plan for potential inspections and be prepared to respond to WHS entry permit holder requests in accordance with upcoming SafeWork NSW guidelines.

This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Employer Assist by Industry Legal Group for advice.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under the professional services legislation.

AAAA Member Benefits

Employer Assist provides advice on all aspects of employment law. If you require any assistance with the above changes in your workplace, please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT

HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES CELEBRATED

The Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame officially inducted its latest members during the 2026 Australian Grand Prix

The Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame is said to be the highest honour in Australian motorsport. It is an exclusive honour-roll made up of less than one inductee for each of the 125 years motorsport has occurred in Australia, recognising Australian motorsport’s greatest pioneers, champions, and heroes.

The six latest inductees were celebrated at an official presentation on the Thursday of the 2026 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park.

Amongst them was the 100th inductee, the RepcoBrabham BT19 F1 car raced by Sir Jack Brabham to the 1966 Formula 1 Drivers’ and Constructors’

World Championships, the only time a driver has won both F1 titles in a car of their own make.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the milestone title victory, coinciding with the centenary of Sir Jack’s birth (2 April, 1926).

The induction of the iconic Repco-Brabham BT19 marked the first time a car, instead of a person, has been uplifted to the Hall of Fame. It joins its chassis designer, Ron Tauranac AO, and its Repco engine designer, Phil Irving MBE, as a member, while Sir Jack Brabham was appointed Legend status in the Hall of Fame in 2018 – one of only four to receive this highest honour.

Members of Sir Jack Brabham’s family and original team members from Repco-Brabham Engines, the Australian company that designed, engineered and produced the car’s 3.0-litre V8 F1 engine in Melbourne, Australia, were part of the ceremony.

“Inducting the Repco-Brabham BT19 to the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame is a great tribute to the outstanding people who created this landmark car, which conquered Ferrari, Lotus, Maserati, and others to write one of Australia’s greatest success stories,” Repco Australia Chief Merchandise and Growth Officer, Wayne Bryant, said.

“The fact that Repco created the BT19’s V8

Formula 1 engine remains a source of inspiration for all of our team members across Australia and New Zealand.”

Joining the Repco-Brabham BT19 in being inducted this year were record-breaking seventime Supercars Champion, Jamie Whincup; leading official and entrepreneur Garry Connelly AM, who was crucial to the formation of Rally Australia; Top Fuel drag racing team owner Santo Rapisarda, with more than 12 national titles; World Motorcycle Enduro Champion, Shane Watts; and the late Ken Blake, an 11-time Australian motorcycle road race champion.

For more information, visit www.australianmotorsporthalloffame.com.au

STARS SHINE AT REPCO ADELAIDE MOTORSPORT FESTIVAL

Formula 1 stars past and present and a who’s who of Australian and international motorsport attended

The 2026 Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival celebrated all forms of motoring and motorsport as “a museum in motion,” on February 28 and March 1 – displaying historic, rare and significant racing vehicles on the Victoria Park section of the Adelaide Street Circuit, which hosted the Australian Grand Prix from 1985 to 1995. Amongst the highlights were Mika Häkkinen and David Coulthard driving a McLaren Solus GT and McLaren Senna GTR respectively, while Valtteri Bottas also put on a show in a Ferrari 812 GTS. All three F1 stars also appeared in the Adelaide Marriott Grand Marquee.

There was also the public Australian debut of the Pagani Huayra R Evo Roadster, driven by Pagani test and development driver Andrea Montermini, and TCR Australia champion Josh Buchan driving a Ferrari Challenge 296, winning the ‘Ten of the Best’ session.

Mad Mike entertained the crowd with multiple on-track session in his iconic drift car, MADBUL; Tabitha Ambrose drove her father Marcos

Ambrose’s NASCAR Cup Series-winning Ford Fusion; and David and Sam Brabham celebrated the 60th anniversary of Sir Jack Brabham’s Formula 1 championship win by appearing with the Brabham BT19.

The public unveiling of the restored Triple Eight Vodafone Holden VE Commodoroes that were driven to a one-two formation finish in the 2010 Bathurst 1000 – with drivers Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup reunited with the cars - also drew

plenty of attention, as did Martin Donnelly driving a Formula 1 car (Arrows A10B) in Adelaide for the first time, 36 years after his career was cut short by a horrific accident.

A sculpture designed by UK-based renowned motorsport artist Paul Oz celebrating the late, great Ayrton Senna’s last Formula 1 win in Adelaide was also revealed.

For more information, visit www.adelaidemotorsportfestival.com.au

PERFORMANCE & RACING

CASTROL-BACKED CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCED FOR ALICE BUCKLEY

The rising star is contesting both the Super2 series and the TA2 Muscle Car Series in 2026

Alice Buckley has completed her first event as part of a full 2026 Dunlop Super2 Series campaign –the feeder series to the pinnacle of Australian motorsport, the Supercars Championship.

The 18-year-old is competing in an ex-Triple Eight Holden Commodore ZB, prepared and run by her own family team, with support from Super2 Series champions Matt Stone Racing (MSR).

Ahead of the season start in Sydney across February 20-22, Alice revealed her Super2 Holden at a special launch in Brisbane, with the car sporting high-profile partners Castrol, Autobarn, GM Special Vehicles, AC Delco, Shannons Insurance, Bendworx, IVE Group and Llewellyn GMSV.

Her move into Super2 is another step forward in her drive to be the next female racer to compete in the Supercars Championship.

The Queenslander burst to prominence last year, winning the Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia Scholarship Series and claiming victory on debut in the competitive TA2 Muscle Car Series.

In December last year, Alice received an opportunity to complete her first laps in a Supercar with Matt Stone Racing where a deal was struck to secure the Commodore and receive assistance from MSR to compete against the next crop of Supercars stars.

Alice has also confirmed that she will keep herself match fit during the year, contesting the six-round TA2 Muscle Car Series in the same Chevrolet Camaro that she took to victory last year.

“I am so excited to be racing the Holden Commodore in the Dunlop Super2 series this year. I’m most excited about it being the feeder category for Supercars, and that’s where I want to go,” Alice said.

“We’ve decided to make the jump this year to a really exciting program. Obviously, my goals for going to Super2 are that I want to get rookie of the year, and if I can get in the top ten, I will be absolutely stoked.

“Being a driver has always been a dream since I

was a little kid racing for James Courtney, so it has been an absolute dream to get into Super2.

“Everyone’s been very supportive of not only having a young female, but a young female driver that is getting some good results at the moment.

“So, I’ve been very fortunate to have the sport being very accepting and pushing for me.

“I’ve been so grateful over my racing career to have some amazing partners such as Castrol and Bendworkx, who have been with me since day one, and then over the last few years, having groups like GMSV, AC Delco, Shannons, Autobarn, IVE Group and the Llewellyn’s join us.”

For more information visit https://bit.ly/4r7PbeQ

NARVA ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL PARTNERSHIP WITH TICKFORD RACING

The leading automotive lighting and electrical solutions company says the partnership reinforces its commitment to supporting Australian industry

Narva is pleased to announce a new partnership with Tickford Racing, one of Australia’s most successful motorsport teams.

The partnership brings together two respected Australian brands that share a strong focus on performance, innovation and reliability.

The collaboration reflects a natural alignment between Narva’s engineering expertise and Tickford Racing’s commitment to precision and continuous improvement.

As part of the partnership, Narva branding will feature prominently on the headlights of Cam Waters’ Car #6 and Thomas Randle’s Car #55 throughout the Supercars season.

Narva Brand Manager, James Pearson, said the partnership was a strong fit between two performance-driven organisations.

“Narva is a brand that understands performance, durability and attention to detail – values that are critical in motorsport,” James said.

Richard Marks from Tickford Racing said the partnership was a natural alignment between the two brands.

“Having Narva on the headlights of both the #6 Monster Energy Mustang and the #55 Castrol Racing Mustang is a natural alignment, and we’re looking forward to bringing the partnership to life with strong on-track presence, authentic storytelling and real-world relevance for Narva’s customers across the automotive and trade space,” Richard said.

The partnership will be supported through a range of brand and marketing initiatives, with further details to be announced in due course.

Narva says it continues to strengthen its position as a trusted leader in automotive lighting and electrical solutions, delivering innovative, highquality products designed to perform in the toughest conditions.

It states that partnerships such as this reinforce Narva’s ongoing commitment to supporting Australian industry, motorsport and trade professionals with products that are built to last and engineered to perform.

For more from Narva, visit www.narva.com.au

DAYCO BACK ON TRACK IN 2026

Look out for Dayco motorsport themed giveaways and exciting trade promotions during 2026

One of the world’s leading automotive Original Equipment and Aftermarket component manufacturers, Dayco, will once again have a major presence across Australia’s major motor racing Championships in 2026.

Returning to Supercars for the 14th consecutive season, Dayco once again rejoins the Blanchard Racing Team (BRT) with prominent windscreen banner signage on Aaron Cameron’s striking Liqui Moly BLAHST Ford Mustang along with team newcomer James Golding in the CoolDrive Auto Parts Ford Mustang.

Along with high focus signage placements on both BRT Ford Mustang Supercars, the industry renowned Dayco logo also appears on both drivers’ race overalls and on pit wall signage at all 14 rounds to be held across Australia and New Zealand.

BRT has already made its 2026 season intentions very clear with the team sensationally locking out the front row in qualifying and gaining podium results at the Supercars opening round in Sydney. Dayco also locks in its 15th season with company ambassador and one of Australia’s fastest and most versatile motor racing drivers this year, as David Russell returns to the 2026 Porsche Paynter Carrera Cup Australia Championship.

Competing at eight of the biggest Supercar rounds

across Australia, David has reunited with the EMA Motorsports team for the new season, the same team with whom the Dayco racer finished fourth in the Carrera Cup Championship back in 2022. After 12 seasons in the world’s fastest one make motor racing series and being among the top three fastest drivers in the category year upon year, “Dayco Dave” is ready to once again compete for victories and podiums after his strong third place Championship result last season.

Universally respected as one of the fastest Supercar co-drivers in Australia, David will once again return to his endurance race co-driver duties with the PremiAir Chevrolet Supercar team, partnering exciting series rookie racer Jayden Ojeda. Dayco will once again be onboard with the team during The Bend 500 and the magnificent Bathurst 1000 to be held in September and October this year.

Dayco is also accompanying David during his GT and Production Car racing appearances during 2026, having been aboard his black beauty Mercedes-AMG GT3 at the Bathurst 12 Hour in February and being a part of his Bathurst Six Hour and other GT race appearances during the year.

According to Dayco Australia General Manager, Geoff Upton, the company’s motorsport

involvement is integral to its customer communication and brand development strategy.

“Dayco has enjoyed a long and successful involvement in Australian motorsport and this year is shaping up to be one of the very best,” Geoff said.

“It is our main customer communication marketing activity and we are sure that no-one will miss our branding message at every event during the 14 round Supercars season.

“It is also excellent to continue our very successful ambassadorship with ‘Dayco Dave’ Russell, a driver who competes strongly in every car and category that he takes part in.

“Porsche Carrera Cup has great fan appeal and by being involved we are also promoting our vast European make and model range of aftermarket parts available to repairers across Australia and New Zealand.”

For more from Dayco, visit www.dayco.com

TUFF STREETERS PUT ICONIC VENUE BACK ON THE MAP

The Tuff Streeters Festival at Calder Park was a big success

On Saturday, January 31, 2026, Calder Park roared back into life when 35,000+ punters walked through the gates to enjoy the Tuff Streeters Festival.

“The success of the Tuff Streeters Festival put Calder Park back on the map and proved Victoria still wants big car events,” Tuff Streeters Founder and Managing Director, Rory Higgins, said. The team at Tuff Streeters say they spared no expense in transforming Calder Park from a racetrack into a monster horsepower festival, offering punters a veritable smorgasbord of entertainment.

The on-track program alone featured drag racing, roll racing and drifting, alongside more than 1,000 show cars, with enthusiasts travelling from across Australia to both compete and spectate. Backing up the action was a huge off-track offering, with more than 150 exhibitors, 50-plus food vendors and pop-up bars, roaming performers for kids, carnival rides, and family entertainment zones spread throughout the venue.

The event was capped off with a fireworks display lighting up the Calder skyline late into the evening. At the sharp end of competition, Tuff Streeters says fans were treated to “the baddest drag cars in the

country, including the quickest door car in Australia and the world’s quickest and fastest blown ProMod, cementing the festival’s credentials as a mustattend event for serious performance enthusiasts.”

Naming rights sponsor Hi-Tec Oils played a major role in bringing the event to life, alongside a wide range of automotive, lifestyle, and trade partners.

Crucially, the festival respected Calder Park’s identity. The complex includes a drag strip, multiple circuit layouts and the iconic Thunderdome superspeedway. While the oval remained dormant for competition, its presence still defined the skyline and reinforced the venue’s rich motorsport heritage.

“The entrants and the tens of thousands of people that made their way out to Calder Park are the main reason we do what we do,” Tuff Streeters partner and new owner of Heathcote Park Raceway, John Ricca, said.

“Our car industry has been in desperate need of something like this, and it showed with the sheer number of people who turned up. Thank you.”

“Calder Park had the bones, and we brought the beating heart,” Rory said.

“We didn’t just hire a venue, we partnered with a landmark, treated it with respect, and the fans voted with their feet.

“We’re already begun planning for next year, taking learnings from the day and aiming to raise the bar again, because we’ve proven that the community deserves events at scale.”

For more information, visit www.tuffstreeters.com.au

SUMMERNATS 38 ROARS INTO THE RECORD BOOKS

More than 130,000 spectators and 3,000 entrants descended on Canberra for the event

Across four massive days in Canberra in January, event organisers say Summernats once again proved why “it is Australia’s largest and most influential automotive festival – bringing together passionate car owners, hardcore enthusiasts, and an incredibly engaged audience ready to see, hear, touch, and buy.”

“Street Machine Summernats, presented by Rare Spares, isn’t just a car show – it is a full-scale celebration of car culture, and Summernats 38 delivered that in spades,” Summernats Co-Owner, Andy Lopez, said.

“Despite the heat, our 130,000-plus spectators and 3,000 entrants brought the energy, and the level of engagement across the entire site was outstanding.”

From the iconic cruise route and burnout pad to the show halls, skid row, action-packed activations and a buzzing trade precinct, Andy says Summernats 38 showcased the very best of Aussie automotive culture to a highly motivated and loyal audience.

“Our sponsors and traders are a critical part of what makes Summernats what it is,” Andy said.

“The quality, diversity and creativity on display this year lifted the entire event and gave fans real opportunities to connect directly with the brands they love.”

With hundreds of thousands of customer touchpoints across the event footprint, Summernats organisers say it continues to offer a unique platform where brands don’t just get seen –they get experienced.

JLM CONTINUES RALLY PARTNERSHIP

The brand is the Official Liquid Tools Partner of the 2026 FIA European Rally Championship

JLM Lubricants says it is proud to announce its continued partnership with the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) for the 2026 season.

This collaboration brings JLM’s industry-leading automotive fuel additive and lubricant technology to one of the world’s most demanding motorsport arenas, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to durability, efficiency, and innovation.

The FIA ERC is known for its challenging timed stages, pushing both drivers and their cars to the limit.

JLM Lubricants explains that its “premium additives and lubricant products will support teams throughout the championship, helping their cars perform at their best.”

“With our Liquid Tools mantra, we provide cuttingedge solutions that optimise engine performance under extreme conditions,” JLM Lubricants Chief Executive Officer, Gilbert Groot, said.

“The FIA ERC is the perfect platform to showcase our products in the demanding rally environments.”

As part of the partnership, JLM Lubricants will work closely with ERC teams and drivers, integrating its products into the pit garages where spectators and mechanics alike will have the opportunity to see first-hand how JLM’s products work.

“This partnership is not just about branding, it is about proving the effectiveness of our products,”

JLM Lubricants Global Brand Manager, Auke Possel, said.

“Our solutions are designed for professionals who demand reliability, and the FIA ERC provides the ultimate proving ground.”

“Summernats attracts some of the most passionate car people in the country,” Andy said.

“They’re here to engage, to discover new products, and to support the businesses that support their passion.”

Feedback from spectators, entrants, sponsors, and traders has reportedly been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing Summernats’ position as a must-attend event for brands looking to make a real impact in the automotive space.

“Every year we raise the bar, and Summernats 39 is already shaping up to be bigger, bolder and better again,” Andy said.

Summernats 39 will be held across 7-10 January, 2027.

For more information, visit www.summernats.com.au

“Motorsport is about pushing boundaries, and JLM Lubricants shares our drive for performance and innovation,” European Rally Championship Manager, Iain Campbell, said.

“This collaboration will benefit our teams and drivers while enhancing engagement with rally fans worldwide.”

JLM is a manufacturer of trade-grade fuel additives and lubricants. You can see the full range of JLM products on display at the upcoming Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo at Stand Q23.

To learn more about JLM Lubricants, contact sales@ jlmlubricants.com.au or go to www.jlmlubricants.com.au

CAR BUILDERS 4X4 WORLD SET FOR MOTOREX

MotorEx 2026 will be held at the Melbourne Showgrounds across 2-3 May 2026

This year, the partnership between MotorEx and Car Builders culminates in the form of the Car Builders 4x4 World, a mecca for modified 4x4 enthusiasts and a must-see attraction for event spectators.

Forget a single hero vehicle on a pedestal – the Car Builders 4x4 World will feature more than 120 modified 4x4s, along with a hand-picked selection of quality 4WD exhibitors.

“Spectators who head over to the Car Builders 4x4 World will be treated to a wide variety of 4x4s from rugged touring machines built for Australian tracks and rock crawlers, to tough daily rigs that work all week,” Car Builders Director, Adrian Parke, said.

“Moreover, the display promises an up-close look at off-road engineering and performance.”

As they say, the devil is in the details and that matters, because MotorEx attracts fans who want more than photos.

Organisers say that instead, they want to study workmanship, compare setups, and bounce around ideas for their next build, and the team at

Car Builders fits that mindset to perfection – stating that after all, the brand has built a reputation around DIY-friendly build materials and solutions, making the partnership a natural fit.

“MotorEx already delivers spectacle. However, partnerships like Car Builders 4x4 World add depth,” Media Scrum Sales Director, Matt Rice, said.

“Fans don’t want to just watch, they want to engage, compare, and plan their next upgrade on

AIRBAG MAN WIRELESS AIR CONTROL

Providing flexible suspension control for every driver

While smart-phone based systems are gaining popularity, Airbag Man says it continues to provide options for all drivers, whether you prefer the convenience of app control or the familiarity of traditional switches.

The company has introduced its Airbag Man Wireless Air Control, a dedicated platform featuring its specifically designed Airbag Man app. Airbag Man explains this new system provides drivers with full control of airbag pressure in the palm of their hand, stating that the wireless solution “reflects a broader transformation in the automotive industry for the next generation of drivers.”

The shift from in dash toggles to mobile-first ride management control brings precision, convenience and real time data to your smartphone.

“Our new wireless app control is designed to make suspension management intuitive and flexible,

whether you’re on the road for work or adventure,” Airbag Man Managing Director, Ben Clamp, said. “Drivers now have more choices in how they adjust their ride height, making every journey easier and more convenient.”

Airbag Man says its Wireless App lets users take full control of the height and pressure of their airbag suspension with ease, explaining that “flexible independent or simultaneous control, three customisable presets, and real-time high/low pressure alerts provide unparalleled flexibility.”

A 360° site level display helps with side-to-side and front-to-back leveling, while a wireless speed reset ensures the vehicle safely returns to your saved preset after adjustments, maintaining safety and convenience on the move.

Installation is also said to be cleaner and more streamlined than ever, seeing drivers benefit from reduced cab clutter, and effortless suspension control.

At the same time, Airbag Man says installers gain confidence with a system that’s intuitive to set up and easy to calibrate.

While the dedicated app leads the company’s digital evolution, Airbag Man also has a backup option when out in the field: Airbag Man’s optional manual rocker switches which are said to ensure

the spot, and the Car Builders 4x4 World brings a practical, builders-first layer to an already highoctane event.

“As a result, 4x4 World becomes a genuine anchor for the weekend.

“It gives 4WD fans a dedicated home inside the broader MotorEx universe and ultimately, that’s the win for spectators.”

For more information, visit www.motorex.com.au

your air control is manageable in any situation, blending modern innovation with classic in-cab controls.

As vehicles become more increasingly softwaredefined, suspension systems are no exception. Airbag Man says it is positioning itself “not just as a component supplier, but as a technology leader in the next generation of ride management.”

Since 1995, Airbag Man has been a trusted Australian leader in air suspension. It designs and manufactures high-quality air suspension systems for thousands of light vehicles (including 4x4 and 4x2), heavy vehicles, trailers, caravans, motorhomes, and more.

Airbag Man says that by partnering with its team, you can help your clients confidently conquer any load or terrain.

For more information, visit www.airbagman.com.au or free call 1800 247 224.

TERRAIN TAMER LAUNCHES ‘ASK ALLAN AFTER 90’ VIDEO SERIES

The series will air on Terrain Tamer’s Facebook and YouTube channels, with early access available to newsletter subscribers

Terrain Tamer has launched a brand-new video series, ‘Ask Allan After 90,’ celebrating the remarkable career of beloved Head Engineer and “Engine Whisperer,” Allan Gray.

Approaching his 92nd birthday, Allan began his apprenticeship in June 1948 at just 14 years old – before the first Holden was released in Australia.

Nearly eight decades later, he is still working three days a week with Terrain Tamer, bringing with him a lifetime of knowledge and hands-on experience that has outlived the rise and fall of the Holden era, and the evolution of the modern 4WD industry.

Each episode of Ask Allan After 90 features Allan answering a single question about his extraordinary career, sharing hard-earned wisdom, practical advice, and stories from an automotive life few can rival.

Allan’s career has included decades as a mechanic, business owner, and successful 4WD racer.

He ran his own workshop, Allan Gray Toyota Service, for 20 years before joining Terrain Tamer

in the 1990s, though it wasn’t until his 70s –when many would be retiring – that Allan became a household name in the 4WD community, stepping in front of the camera for Terrain Tamer’s educational video content.

Alongside John “Roothy” Rooth, Allan appeared in technical rebuilds and how-to videos, breaking down complex mechanical issues into practical advice for home mechanics.

From this grew the Ask Allan competition, where 4WD owners submitted their toughest vehicle problems.

Each month, Allan would travel to one winner, personally diagnosing and repairing their vehicle, often over a friendly cup of tea. Distributed nationally on DVD with 4WD Action magazine, the series quickly became a fan favourite.

Allan earned a reputation for his uncanny ability to diagnose obscure faults – sometimes by sound alone – and his unconventional yet deeply informed mechanical methods.

ADRAD FAN CLUTCH KITS

Allowing you to order Fan Clutches and Fan Blades as a single part number

In many 4x4 and commercial vehicles, the engine-driven cooling fan is connected via a viscous fan clutch attached to the water pump pulley.

When the clutch mechanism is not operating correctly, the fan engages at cold start and runs constantly, increasing the time taken for the engine to reach optimum operating temperature and adding a mechanical power drain.

When replacing a fan clutch, the fan blade should also be replaced, and ADRAD has combined 30 of its most popular Fan Clutches and Fan Blades into kits.

Fan Clutch Kits are available for vehicles including Ford Ranger; Holden Colorado/Rodeo; Isuzu D-Max/MUX; Mazda BT-50; Mitsubishi Challenger/ Express/Pajero/Triton; Nissan Navara/Pathfinder/Patrol, and Toyota Fortuner/ Hiace/Hilux/Landcruiser/Prado.

The Fan Clutch Kits are reportedly priced up to $20 cheaper than buying the parts separately, with ADRAD stating the fan clutches meet or exceed OE specifications and are backed by a 12-month national warranty.

Account customers with access to Radshop or Natrad Trade websites can browse the range by searching FCBKIT. For more information or to order, speak with your ADRAD products sales representative or call ADRAD Customer Service on 1800 882 043.

For more from ADRAD, visit www.adrad.com.au

He has since starred in numerous Terrain Tamer series, including Junior Ask Allan, Ask Allan: The Project, The Apprentice, Masterclass, Meet Jillaroo Jess, Terrain Tamer Goes Mustering, and most recently The New Build, modifying a Special Edition 70 Series LandCruiser in preparation for what he jokingly calls his “retirement at 100.”

The Ask Allan After 90 series is a celebration of many years of automotive education, mechanical expertise, opinions, and memories from an unparalleled career.

For more information, visit terraintamer.tv

BENDIX EXPANDS HEAVY

DUTY AND 4WD/SUV RANGES

The braking specialist has introduced new brake pads to these product line-ups

Bendix has further grown its range of Heavy Duty and 4WD/SUV brake pads, introducing new options for a host of Volkswagen Transporter models, as well as for Toyota C-HR, Mazda CX-60 and SsangYong Rexton.

For the hard-working Transporter, Heavy Duty front pads are now available for selected T6.1 Series van and cab chassis models from 2020 onwards, including both 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TDI 4 motion variants.

Perfect for vehicles that operate at high-loads and are engaged in frequent start and stop traffic during deliveries and other work, Bendix says its Heavy Duty pads are designed to last longer – up to twice as long as standard all-purpose pads – in high temperature conditions.

They also feature Bendix’s unique Blue Titanium Stripe, which provides instant positive pedal feel and smooth predictable braking straight from the box.

More 4WD/SUV options

For owners of Toyota C-HR (2023 model), there are now front 4WD/SUV pads to suit, while rear pad types have also been released for the popular Mazda CX-60 (2022 and 2023 models).

Leading South Korean manufacturer, SsangYong, is also now catered for with rear pad options to suit Rexton (2017, 2018 and 2020 models), covering both standard 2.0 and 2.2 Xdi All-wheel Drive variants.

Bendix’s 4WD/SUV disc brake pads are specially formulated for both on and off-road use, offering versatility and low noise and dust performance along with reduced brake fade characteristics. They also benefit from Bendix’s Titanium Stripe technology.

For more from Bendix, visit www.bendix.com.au

NEW LOCATION, NEW PRODUCT FOR HAMER 4X4

Hamer 4x4 recently opened its new Melbourne location and launched the Force 12 winch

Hamer 4x4 says it is doubling down on growth, with the opening of its newest facility in West Melbourne’s Derrimut perfectly timed with the launch of its “revolutionary” Force 12 winch.

The new facility in Derrimut is strategically positioned to serve Melbourne’s western suburbs and regional Victoria and offers expanded workshop capacity, increased inventory, and expert installation services all under one roof.

Adam Cohen has been appointed as the facility’s branch manager.

“The West Melbourne expansion builds on proven success from Queensland, Perth, and Sydney, where facilities have strengthened Hamer’s position across Australia’s diverse 4x4 markets,” Hamer 4x4 Marketing Manager, Mark Gelo, said.

“The Derrimut location offers enhanced accessibility for western Melbourne and regional customers; local expertise and faster service times; a comprehensive product range with expert consultation; and professional installation for complex modifications.

“The new facility represents more than convenience – it is access to the kind of local support that makes all the difference when planning your next off-road expedition.”

At the same time, Hamer 4x4 has been pleased to launch its Force 12 winch, which it says is its most innovative product launch yet, “redefining recovery equipment.”

Hamer 4x4 states that while most 12,000-pound winches weigh 32-40 kilograms, the Force 12 tips the scales at just 27 kilograms. It explains this dramatic weight reduction means better fuel economy and easier installation.

The Force 12 also addresses critical pain points with intelligent engineering, and features:

• Integrated Control Box: mounted directly onto the winch, eliminating random mounting points and extra fail points

• Wireless Remote: ultimate convenience and safety during recovery operations

• Magnetic Fairlead Housing: four integrated magnets keep your winch hook secure

• Compact Profile: engineered to fit seamlessly in tight spaces and narrow bull bars where larger winches simply won’t work

• Five-Year Warranty: comprehensive coverage backing Hamer’s confidence in superior build quality

“It is not about being the heaviest hammer in the toolbox. It is about being the smartest,” Mark said.

“The Force 12 delivers 12,000 pounds of pulling power while weighing significantly less than competitors, proving that innovation trumps brute force.

“The sealed housing protects against dust, water, and debris, while the high-output motor provides exceptional torque delivery when you need it most.”

The Hamer 4x4 West Melbourne facility is now open in Derrimut, featuring the complete range of 4x4 accessories and the new Force 12 winch.

“Victorian 4×4 enthusiasts now have local access to cutting-edge 4x4 accessories and expert support,” Mark said.

“Whether you’re upgrading your current setup or building a new rig, the combination of the innovative Force 12 winch and local expertise ensures you’re ready for any adventure.”

For more information, visit www.hamer4x4.com.au