Repairify and NAPA have announced the release of asTech Mechanical, a single device auto repair shop technicians can use to access most original equipment tools.
The announcement was made by John Molidor, product category director, tools and equipment; paint, body, and equipment at NAPA; and Ben Johnson, vice president, general automotive repair for Reparify.
“This is one of the rare occasions in my history, that a technology has actually matured and become available at right about the same time as it's really needed for the industry,” Johnson said.
Johnson added that the catalyst for Reparify—a leading brand in remote diagnostic, calibration, programming, and automotive intelligence in the collision market—to enter the mechanical market was survey data stating that over half of mechanical repair shops reported a need for OE tools to complete at least 20% of their repairs.
“Vehicle technology is increasing rapidly, and in turn, so is the need to utilize OE tools in repair. However, many OE tools require a large upfront investment, costly upkeep, and specialized knowledge to use the tools, creating barriers for many shop owners,” said Johnson.
Molidor said it’s been two or three years since they saw Reparify’s services and realized that a collaboration between the entities had the potential to bring to life a game-changing technology that could drive costs down for consumers, make repairs quicker, and turn cars faster out of the bay.
“As a leader in the aftermarket repair industry, NAPA is dedicated to improving technician and shop efficiency. The partnership with Repairify to launch asTech Mechanical will bring much-needed resources to shop owners as they look to the future of OE diagnostics and repair “ said Molidor. “
asTech Mechanical is compatible with tools many shops already have available.
“The great news for a lot of shops is that they already have the hardware they need to make this all work. If they have either a Launch X-431 Torque Link or 5, or SmartLink C, or an Alltel 909, 919, or Ultra, they already had the hardware that they need,” said Johnson. “All they need to do is sign up.”
