Lester Kovacs from Dorman Products | The Repair Industry Needs Better Communication
About this episode
Lester Kovacs from Dorman Products shares insights on the importance of communication in the repair industry, emphasizing the need for better partnerships between manufacturers and technicians. He discusses challenges in receiving feedback on defective parts and the grassroots efforts Dorman is making to improve quality. The conversation also touches on the evolution of automotive technology, the impact of right to repair legislation, and the growing complexity of EV components. Kovacs highlights Dorman's commitment to addressing technician concerns and improving product offerings based on real-world feedback.
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Lester Kovacs is from Dorman Products. Today, he and Jeff discuss the challenges faced by Dorman in obtaining feedback from technicians about defective parts and why they need better communication from the industry. Jeff reflects on the reputation of aftermarket parts and that he's seen Dorman make improvements in that area. Lester also shares what's next for Dorman as they think about the future and the EV market.
00:00 Success in Diesel and Auto Parts
10:14 First Job in Automotive Industry
11:33 Innovative Product Development Role
19:05 Optimizing Automotive Part Reliability
23:06 Technician Ingenuity and Collaboration
31:01 Remanufacturing Enhancements via Failure Analysis
36:01 Communication Gaps in Auto Services
40:09 Tech Training: Progress and Challenges
44:22 Window Regulator Redesign Challenges
48:32 Expanding Beyond Light Duty Fleet
53:10 Tech Issues Render Cars Obsolete
01:01:42 Improving Dealer-Customer Collaboration
01:03:49 Tech Struggles with RF Hub Shortage
01:11:29 Aftermarket Solutions for EV Failures
01:16:41 Constructive Feedback Over Negativity
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Jeep Grand Cherokee
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Chevrolet Cruze
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Ford Transits
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Ford Explorer
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Ford Lightnings
"... don't know if it was the EVs or some of the Ford Lightnings or maybe something like that because they've been..."
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