Update 02/28/2019: Died in Committee Returned Bill Pursuant to HR 5-4
Jan 29th, 2019, a third reading passed for Wyoming Bill SF0095. The bill allows for the use of aftermarket parts to be used in collision repairs.
Aftermarket parts mean parts that are not from the vehicle manufacturer (non-OEM). For example, any replacement/blueprint part(s) purchased from a 3rd party parts distributor including online parts stores.
Here is how the bill defines the term.
“(i) “Aftermarket part” means any non‑OEM sheet metal or plastic parts that generally constitute the exterior of a motor vehicle, including inner and outer panels. “Aftermarket part” shall not include tires, windshields or windows;”
The saying, ‘you get what you pay for’ can be true in these instances.
Some aftermarket may be of equal or even better quality, but some parts are a lot cheaper. They are cheaper for a reason. Most likely built from cheaper, lesser quality material. Aftermarket parts may not fit correctly and/or leave varying panel gaps.
Aftermarket parts could affect the safety of your vehicle.
Ford Motor Co has researched the use of aftermarket parts. “All components of the vehicle structure are designed and tested to work together in a real-world collision,” said FCSD Collision Product Team Manager Lisa Fournier. “Any significant deviations from engineering specifications, such as changes in materials, forming processes, dimensional inaccuracies and any structural differences, along with how it is repaired, can dramatically alter the crash characteristics of a vehicle.”
Part of the Wyoming bill reads as follows;
26‑13‑403.Use of aftermarket parts.
(a) An insurer shall not require the use of aftermarket parts in the repair of an automobile unless the aftermarket part is at least equal in kind and quality to the original part in terms of fit, quality and performance. Insurers specifying the use of aftermarket parts shall consider the cost of any modifications that may become necessary when making the repair.”
Who is to determine the quality of the non -OEM parts used?
“(b) An insurer shall not be required to pay any additional cost of an original equipment manufacturer part when an aftermarket part equal in kind and quality in terms of fit, quality and performance is available. The insured may requireinstallationof an original manufacturer part, but shall pay any additional cost of an original equipment manufacturer part if not covered pursuant to the terms of the insuring agreement.
This implies that an auto insurance company does not have to pay for replacing OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts if cheaper aftermarket ones are available. If the customer requires OEM parts fitted, they may have to pay the difference (depending on the insurance policy).
How will aftermarket parts affect warranty?
Here are is an example of a manufacturers warranty that does not cover aftermarket parts. This is an excerpt from the 2019 Toyota Tundra warranty.
Another example would be headlights. An exterior part of the vehicle, which under this new bill would means non-OEM replacements can be fitted. Cheap replacement headlamps could not only burn out faster but could cause further electrical damage (subsequent damage caused by a non-OEM part could result in a warranty claim being denied).
How do you feel about aftermarket parts being fitted to your vehicle in a collision repair?
Would it make a difference if it depended on the age of your vehicle?
If the insurance companies have cheaper parts fitted, does this mean premiums will drop?
Let us know in the comments below or send a contact to your Wyoming legislators.
Winter is in full swing in Wyoming, and for those who don’t prepare, winter driving can be trecherous. Here are some tips on winter-proofing your vehicle and traveling in cold weather.
Like the Scout’s motto: “Be Prepared”, winter drivers should always be prepared when traveling in cold weather. Vehicle mishaps and unexpected traveling dangers can occur.
Getting stuck on some desolate road without emergency supplies and no help when the temperatures are at or below freezing can spell trouble.
Winter Proofing Vehicle Checklist
We have compiled a list of winter-proofing safety items you should keep in your vehicle when traveling in cold weathershould the unexpected happen.
Tire Chains (Make sure they are the correct size for your vehicle)
A Shovel
Ice Scraper
Kitty Litter or Bag of Sand
Can of De-ice
Extra Set of Wiper Blades
Warm Blanket
Water/Food (Energy bars are easy to store and convenient)
Flares
Flashlight and extra batteries
Jumper Cables
Matches or Lighter or both.
Warm Jacket, pants, hat and gloves (Always keep a spare set of clothes at the ready).
While it’s recommended to shelter at home during snow or ice storms and when road conditions are bad, plenty of drivers throw caution to the wind and venture out anyway.
A good rule of thumb is to remember that during late fall, winter and early spring, because of freezing temperatures, road conditions can change rapidly
Here are a few tips for traveling in cold weather
Check Your Tire Pressure – Make sure your tires are inflated properly for cold weather driving. In general tire pressure will decrease about 1 psi for every 10 degrees. Not sure how? Check out our articles on how to check tire pressure and TPMS.
Replace Worn Out Windshield Wipers – If you have wipers that look a bit worn out, replace them.
Check Your Windshield Wiper Fluids – When the temperatures are cold fluids can freeze. Buying Anti-Freeze windshield wiper fluid is highly recommended. Make sure to top off the wiper fluids.
Allow More Braking Time – When driving on icy and snowy roads remember that it takes longer to stop or slow down. Stopping distances can be ten timesgreater than on dry roads.
Keep A Full Tank Of Fuel – Don’t leave for your destination almost on empty. Don’t get stuck without fuel. Keeping more than half a tank of fuel in your vehicle helps avoid condensation build up which could then freeze.
Check Your Headlights and Brake Lights – Many new cars come equipped with safety light warnings features. Please refer to your specific model owners manual for a list of light safety features and warnings. Another option is to do a manual safety check making sure the lights are working properly.
Buckle Up – Don’t forget to buckle up and make sure your passengers are also wearing their seat belts.
Adjust Your Speed For Conditions – As road conditions change, make sure to adjust your speed appropriately.
If you’re thinking about winter driving, don’t neglect your tires. Think about purchasing a good set of winter specific tires or if you have them already, make sure there are up to the task and don’t need replacing.
If you are uncertain, call your local dealership or tire service station for advice.
Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT)
Beyond winter-proofing your vehicle, another tip for traveling in cold weather is to check the roads. Check road conditions for the entire route prior to travel. A helpful website is the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT).
The WYDOT contains all sorts of links on weather related road conditions including road cameras and road condition updates.
When driving in Wyoming you can call 511 to get road condition information. Those traveling outside of Wyoming can call 888-WYO-ROAD (888-996-7623). You can also visit http://www.wyoroad.info/ There is also a phone App for those who prefer updates that way.
If you would like to receive updates, 511 Notify will send messages through text or via email.
Are you a seasoned winter traveler? What are your tips for vehicle winter-proofing and traveling in cold weather?
Every year, KBB (Kelley Blue Book) ranks and awards vehicles based on their resale value. Resale value is projected over a 5-year term and is based on market data by automotive analysts from millions of transactions.
Resale value is an important factor to consider when purchasing a vehicle. Heavily depreciating vehicles can make it difficult to trade out of if the vehicle is financed. This can result in negative equity. Purchasing a vehicle with a good resale value should help avoid and/or counteract this.
Top 10 Trucks and SUV’s with the best resale value for 2019
2019 is the first year the top 10 resale value awards are ALL trucks or SUV’s. There are no cars in the top 10. Last year (2018), the 2018 Subaru WRX held 10th place as the only car on the list.
The Toyota Tacoma consistently ranks as a vehicle with the best resale value. This mid-size truck also made the top of the best resale value list for 2018 and keeps its spot for 2019.
2019 Toyota Tacoma, Photo: Toyota
Subtle changes are made for the 2019 year model Tacoma. Toyota has improved the ride quality and reduced cabin noise for this off-road capable pickup.
Previously, the Jeep Wrangler was no.4 on the list and has now jumped up to a very respectable 2nd place. Outplacing 2 other Toyota’s along the way.
2019 Lifted Jeep Wrangler. Photo: L Baures
Jeep Wrangler’s are a completely new design for 2019. The new model Wrangler is called a JL and it comes with a whole lot of technology. Off-road enthusiasts can enjoy listening to Apple CarPlay or Android whilst navigating tough terrain. Wrangler’s are sought after vehicles in the Rocky Mountain West and this is probably why they keep their value so well.
Toyota always dominates the best resale value lists. This could be due to supply and demand as well as little to no discounts given on the trucks. In 3rd place for 2019 is the full-size Toyota Tundra.
2019 Toyota TRD Pro, Photo: Toyota
2019 Model year Tundra’s come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P) as standard. A new SX package is available and V8’s available in both Double Cab and CrewMax configurations. This half ton has a towing capacity of up to 10,200 lbs.
Moving up one place this year on the list of vehicles with the best resale value is the 2019 GMC Sierra. An all-new design from General motors includes the Multi-Pro Tailgate with 6 different functions.
2019 GMC Sierra Elevation, Photo: GMC
Other new features on the GMC Sierra include a color heads up display, carbon-fiber cargo box, a new 3.0L turbo-diesel option and it’s longer. Infotainment includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Slipping a couple of places but still solidly in the top 10, in 5th comes the Toyota 4Runner. A capable off-road SUV with fun features such as crawl control.
2019 Toyota 4Runner, Photo: Toyota
New for the 2019 4Runner includes some updates including Fox suspension for the TRD Pro model, JBL audio and a TRD roof rack. A Nightshade special edition is added giving the body-on-frame SUV added style.
Staying in 6th place is the Chevy Silverado. An all new design for 2019 and sister truck to the Sierra.
2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT, Photo: Chevrolet
Lighter and longer, the 2019 Chevy Silverado gets a new 2.7-liter gasoline turbocharged engine option. Also new is the Duramax 3.0-liter diesel engine option. Available in eight trim levels, new for 2019 is the RST (street performance) and the LT Trail Boss (off-road).
Available in crew cab shortbox, the Honda Ridgeline is constructed on a unibody frame (Sport Utility Truck). Minor updates are made for 2019. This mid-sized truck is available in 2WD and AWD. Honda Ridgeline’s feature a unique in-bed trunk.
Another Mid-sized truck on the list of vehicles with the best resale value. The 2019 Chevy Colorado hold it’s spot at 8th place.
2019 Chevy Colorado Z71, Photo: Chevrolet
New for 2019 on the Colorado is an upgraded infotainment system and 3 new colors. LT, Z71 and ZR2 trim levels get six way power driver seat. Z71 and ZR2’s get a heated steering wheel as standard. Max trailering with the Duramax diesel option is 7,700 lbs.
Staying in the top 10 vehicles with the best resale value lost, coming in 9th is the Ford F-150.
2019 Ford F-150, Photo: Ford
A new 3.0-liter Powerstroke diesel engine is available on the 2019 model year F-150’s. Ultra-luxurious features such as multi-contour massage seats are available on higher-end trims. Upgrades to infotainment systems now include compatibility with WAZE and Amazon Alexa.
No. 10 Porsche Macan
Knocking the Subaru WRX out of the top 10 for 2019 is the Porsche Macan. A compact luxury SUV that seats 5 and is AWD.
Paul Lutz is a Sales Consultant at Fremont Motor Toyota in Sheridan, Wyoming. Paul is new to the sales team but has worked with the company for a while. We interviewed him to find out a little more.
Paul Lutz, Sales Consultant, stands in front of the all new Toyota RAV4 in the Fremont Toyota Sheridan showroom. Photo: L Baures
Where were you born and raised?
“Well, my father was in the Air Force when I was younger so I moved around quite a bit. I was born in Kilmarnock Virginia. We lived there for a couple of years until we moved again. Then lived in Delaware, followed by California, then Lander Wyoming. Finally, landing in Shoshoni, Wyoming where we stayed for 10 years. So whenever anyone asks where I am from I just tell them Shoshoni Wyoming because that is where I have lived the longest.” says Paul Lutz.
What brought you to Sheridan, WY?
“I moved up here to be closer to my fiance for one and secondly I came up here to go to college. I am currently going to school to become an elementary school teacher.”
How long have you worked in the Auto Industry?
Paul explains, “I started out as a car detailer and photographer with Fremont Motors about a year and a half ago. Whilst taking pictures of the vehicles to show off all of the features, pretty soon I knew almost as much about the cars as the salespeople. I was then asked to move up to sales.”
What is your favorite part of the job?
“Besides getting to check out all of the sweet new rides that Toyota gets in. I love the look on the customers face when they drive off in their new vehicle.”
Biggest achievement?
“Convincing this gorgeous woman to go down the aisle with me. That took a lot of work.”
Growing up as a child, what did you want your career to be?
“I wanted to be an aeronautical engineer since I was seven. Thinking it was the coolest thing to get to design airplanes, spaceships, and helicopters. Then I realized that I really didn’t want to do mathematics for my entire life when I was in high school. I found my true passion, which is shaping the minds of our future generations.”
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?
“When I’m not working, I like to do a lot of things. I love movies! My movie collection at my home literally fills the wall. I like to go hiking with family and camping is always a great time.”
What kind of music do you like?
“Well, it doesn’t really match me my personality but I really like to listen to late 90’s early 2000’s pop-rock. My favorite group is Panic! At The Disco.”
How about your favorite kind of food?
“Mac & cheese is my favorite. I could eat it all day everyday.”
Favorite movie line?
“For a moment there I thought we were in trouble” from Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
What was your first car?
“My first car is actually my current car. It is a 2009 Ford Escape. This car and I have been through a lot. I’m pretty sure that it is cursed but I love it. I say it’s cursed because I have had to replace the rear bumper 4 different times. Probably the auto body shop’s no.1 customer.”
If money was no object, what vehicle would you own?
Fremont Motor Rock Springs Among Top FCA Dealerships in Region
The only dealership in the Denver Business region to receive a perfect score from J.D. Power.Fremont Motor Rock Springs, a Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, RAM dealership wins Customer First Award for Excellence. Only 34 dealerships in the region won this prestigious award.
Fremont Motor Rock Springs
Customer First Award for Excellence
The Customer First Award for Excellence is an award given to elite Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, dealerships. FCA compiles the results in partnership with J.D. Power.
Dealerships must excel in various aspects of the business. The criteria consists of five main areas; Customer Treatment, Employee Engagement, Facilities, Processes, and Training Certification. This is for both the sales and service departments within the dealership. This is exactly what Fremont Motor Rock Springs has achieved.
What made this award possible for Fremont Rock Springs
Steph Staton, Customer Experience Manager at the Fremont Motors Rock Springs, dealership tells us more.
What did you implement at the store to make this award a reality?
“We identified process improvements. Aligning with Chrysler’s pillars to adopt a culture that proved to provide an excellent environment. A good setting for our employees results in a better experience for sales, service, and parts. These processes were specific in nature and required meetings with each department to review all of their individual processes. Ensuring they align with Chrysler’s goals and objectives while still adhering to Fremont’s processes. Communicating the processes to the frontline to ensure a proper rollout and training. The award – while daunting at first – has allowed all employees to “level up” and rise to the occasion to adopt these practices on a daily basis.”
What does this mean for Fremont Motor Rock Springs customers?
“Dealership customers now experience improved communication in their visits from start to finish both in sales and service. The environment is more customer-focused on providing a warm and welcoming area and overall culture. Our processes have drastically improved our reputation in the community raising our Google rating increased. We’ve heard from various customers and businesses in the community that they have seen and experienced very positive changes. A Dealerships reputation is EVERYTHING!!!!”
Staton says, “A BIG THANK you to all of the employees at Fremont CJDR Rock Springs. Embracing this as an opportunity to change, improve and really “level up.” This is not an award that is easily achievable. We were 1 out of 34 stores in the Denver Business Center to receive the award the only store to receive a perfect score of the JD Powers Certification.”
Beyond 
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