Economic pressures have converged on the automotive industry to create a condition that's difficult to swallow for many recyclers and collision repairers.  Expensive vehicle technology, an increasing number of foreign repairers, and the rising cost of scrap metal add up to more totaled vehicles, said John Fischl, a longtime automotive recycler in Phoenix and a participant in the United Recyclers Group (URG) and Premium Recycled Parts (PRP).

Aurora, Colo. -- What's in a name?  For an automotive repair shop, brand recognition with motorists can be a great way to attract new business.  That, coupled with decades of industry know-how and an ability to build trust with customers, is a recipe for success, said Glenn Gow, who co-owns Complete Automotive Repair & Service, a nine-bay Goodyear Gemini shop on East Iliff Avenue, with his longtime colleagues Chris Weinreich and John Franceschi.

Florissant, Mo. -- Perception is reality.  When it comes to motorists' understanding of their vehicles, there are often misconceptions.  A shop's service writer is usually the bearer of truth, turning the shop counter into a classroom, conveying reasons for maintenance or repair.  Without trust, that can be an arduous task, said Gilbert "Gil" Sullivan, owner of Sullivan Tire & Service.

Golden, Colo.--Motorcycle gas tanks and fenders, sporting everything from skulls to flames, are neatly aligned in the shipping and receiving area of Gunslinger Custom Paint.  They await shipment while their plain, black brethren are staged to receive a colorful paint scheme.

Boulder, Colo.--It's often been said that a company is like a three-legged stool, supported by customers, employees, and the overall health of the business.  If any one of these three legs falters, the business can topple.  After 25 years of running Independent Motors, a foreign repair specialist, Owner Bill Bender said he's learned to find an appropriate balance among the three.