Tesla led the auto-tech names higher while LKQ was the lone holdout, slipping slightly as parts distribution sat out the broader rally.
Data via Yahoo Finance
🎯 Carrier of the Week
USAA
USAA is leaning on 'not required' to kill calibration lines
What they're cutting
Denying pre- and post-scan as included in the repair, not standalone operations
Flagging calibration as 'not necessary' when no DTC is present after repair
Pushing back on R&R time for radar and camera components, calling it overlap
Rebuttal that's flipping it
OEM position statements from Toyota, Honda, and GM explicitly require calibration after windshield replacement and structural repairs regardless of fault codes, the absence of a DTC is not a clearance to skip the procedure. SCRS has documented this repeatedly, and I-CAR's 2023 position on scanning states pre- and post-repair scans are separate, necessary operations that carry their own labor value
▶ Play this weekPull the OEM repair procedure page specific to that vehicle, attach it to the claim with the calibration invoice, and note in writing that USAA's insured is a service member whose vehicle safety system was not restored to pre-loss condition without i
Good morning, {{firstName}}.
California's Bureau of Automotive Repair votes on an airbag sourcing rule in nine days. Meanwhile, 50% tariffs on Canadian goods just hit, and parts distributors are already pricing the shock. Both matter to your bottom line today.
INSURANCE
1. California airbag sourcing rule vote set for July 30
The California Bureau of Automotive Repair Advisory Group will vote on a pending regulation that governs where shops can source replacement airbags. The vote happens Wednesday, July 30. This rule has been in limbo for months and will likely affect parts cost and vendor relationships for any shop shipping repairs into California. Pay attention to the outcome.
Mark says: Block Wednesday afternoon to read the rule outcome and alert your parts vendor. Pricing could shift by Friday.
2. 50% tariffs on Canadian goods hit U.S. imports effective immediately
President Trump imposed 50% tariffs on most Canadian goods under a renegotiated USMCA deal. This affects parts, materials, and equipment sourced from Canada, which represents a major share of collision shop supplies. Expect parts distributors to raise pricing or announce surcharges within 48 to 72 hours. Contact your vendor now to ask about pass-through costs and timelines.
Mark says: Call your parts suppliers before end of business today; lock in pricing on high-volume items before they adjust.
3. SCRS legal tip: consumer authorization video now live
The Society of Collision Repair Specialists released a new Quick Tip video featuring Coverall Law's Sean Preston on consumer authorization issues. This covers the legal foundation for getting customer sign-off on estimates, supplements, and scope changes. Short, practical, and worth watching before your next estimate consultation.
Mark says: Have your service writers and estimators watch this before next Monday. One authorization mistake can derail a supplement.
4. TechForce Foundation ahead of fundraising pace; $6M awarded by year-end
The TechForce Foundation reported raising $8.4 million toward a $11.6 million budget, outpacing their 2026 goal. They are on track to award $6 million in scholarships and grants by December. If you have technicians or staff pursuing training or education, this is a good time to check eligibility and application deadlines.
Mark says: Share TechForce grant opportunities with your team. Apprentices and technicians pursuing ADAS certs may qualify.
5. ASA relaunches NACE/CARS as one-day event in San Antonio Sept. 29
The Automotive Service Association is consolidating its NACE and CARS events into a single one-day gathering on Sept. 29 in San Antonio. This is a streamlined format for collision and service shops to network, learn new regulations, and connect with vendors. Early bird registration is likely coming soon.
Mark says: Mark Sept. 29 on your calendar. Shorter format means lower travel cost; good ROI for a shop owner or manager.
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