Aftermarket November 2022

Below: Dayco suspension repair kit NOVEMBER 2022 AFTERMARKET 43 to’ brand for steering and suspension components.” For more information, visit: www.repxpert.co.uk New design Jon Roughley, Global Marketing Director for First Line, said: “2022 sees First Line celebrate 30 years of its steering and suspension range. By reducing the weight of individual components, there has been an increase in the use of materials such as aluminium and composite plastics. Many multi-link suspension systems now incorporate aluminium control arms and newer design suspension bushings, stabiliser links and top strut mountings now include composite plastics, instead of traditional metal components. This provides not only a lighter component, but one that is easier to manufacture, as well as being less susceptible to wear and corrosion. A specific example of this new component design is the hybrid link, which is a stabiliser link that comprises a steel bar with composite plastic ball joint housings. The new design can weigh up to 200g less than the original, and as the part is used on both sides of the vehicle it decreases the vehicles weight by almost half a kg, making it easy to see why VMs are putting such an emphasis on new light-weight technology. This is highlighted by the fact that these new design links are fitted as standard on all BMW i3 models. With these new developments, it is likely that technicians will start to see components that perform a function that they are familiar with, but look different in design, so it’s imperative that workshops keep themselves abreast of these changes and educate their staff in the differences these components may have. “Another development is that many vehicles are now fitted with ADAS. Many manufacturers recommend that ADAS technology is tested and reset after mechanical alignment of the steering and suspension system. Likewise, it is particularly important with safety critical steering and suspension items to understand that traditionally it may have been possible to re-use a nut or bolt, but nowadays as component designs change, so do the relevant fittings and fixings. Many are of a specific design and incorporate unique locking features and most are single use, so it’s crucial that new fittings are used each time the relevant part is replaced.” Jon added: “First Line recognises the increasing growth in the EV sector, and the importance of having OE- specification parts available in the aftermarket, so that garages can service and maintain this new breed of vehicle, while future-proofing their business. Each month the company provides new-to-range bulletins highlighting the updated coverage for various new electric and hybrid vehicles, particularly by its steering and suspension range, with suspension arms, ball joints and stabiliser links now available for Tesla’s Model S, the new Vauxhall Corsa E and Volkswagen’s electrified range of ID.3 and ID.4 cars.” In demand Meanwhile, Comline recently launched a new steering and suspension brochure. Comline General Manager – Marketing & Communications, Leigh Davies commented: “Diving into the brochure, readers will discover how Comline’s product experts have crafted a range that is targeted to the market’s most popular vehicles, those that underpin the steering and suspension sales of parts distributors and garages alike. This includes the development of parts specifically for hybrid and EV applications, which are on the rise and having a pronounced impact across the aftermarket. Impressively, to date, the Comline steering and suspension range covers 171 million vehicles currently being driven on Europe’s roads, with the brand providing solutions for more than 1,700 of Europe’s bestselling models. Comline’s expansive offering is also complemented by a suite of product data that is meticulously compiled by a team of specialists. This product data has been pivotal to the ongoing growth of Comline’s steering and suspension category, and is accessed via the brand’s website, MAM Software’s Autocat system, and TecDoc, where Comline is classified as a ‘Premium Data Supplier’. To obtain a copy of the new brochure, email marketing@comline.uk.com For more information on Comline, visit www.comline.uk.com Researched Finally, febi and Blue Print, part of the Bilstein Group, recently unveiled a range expansion that includes steering and suspension products. New products include an axle beam mount for the Volvo S60 (2019-), V60 (2015-) and XC60 (2017-) models, a new stabiliser link for Tesla Model 3 (2017-) and Model Y (2019-) cars new strut mounting kits for Audi A4 (2015-) and Audi A5 (2016-) and a new control arm for Ford Mondeo (2014-) cars. Commenting on the release, Linda Evans, Product Marketing Manager at febi Bilstein said: “New products and the latest vehicle releases are constantly being researched to ensure that febi and Blue Print continue to meet the aftermarket’s requirements with every new component. Motor factors and garages can use Bilstein Group’s advanced partsfinder platform to search through a complete catalogue of spare parts, featuring 360-degree illustrations, technical videos, data sheets and OE comparison numbers.” For more information, visit: www.partsfinder.bilsteingroup.com