California auto repair shop owners, there’s a new regulation that almost flew under the radar, and if you're doing any kind of digital advertising, you’ll want to hit play on this one.
In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with Dave Kusa, president of ASCCA, to break down recent changes from the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) that affect how you advertise your shop, especially when it comes to your phone number and license info. Spoiler: that tracking number you’ve been using to measure ad performance? It’s not necessarily a problem... but there are some key things you need to know to stay compliant and avoid issues down the line.
They also talk about how this regulation came about, what ASCCA did to advocate for shop owners, and what to expect moving forward. Plus, if you’ve ever wondered why joining an association like ASCCA really matters, this is a perfect example of how that involvement pays off.
If you're marketing a shop in California, or just want to stay ahead of the curve, this is one you can’t afford to miss. Listen now and keep your shop out of trouble.
Show Notes with Timestamps
Podcast Network Introduction (00:00:00) Brief announcement of the Automotive Repair Podcast Network.
Episode Introduction & Sponsors (00:00:10) Host Brian Walker introduces the episode, guest Dave Kusa, and thanks sponsors Shop Boss and App Fueled.
Guest Introduction & ASCCA Overview (00:01:01) Dave Kusa introduces himself, his shop, and his role as ASCCA president and Government Affairs Committee chair.
ASCCA’s Role in Regulatory Issues (00:02:18) Discussion of ASCCA’s involvement with the BAR advisory group and regulatory processes.
Background on New BAR Advertising Rules (00:03:41) Explanation of how the new BAR advertising rules, especially phone number requirements, came to ASCCA’s attention.
Origin of Mobile Auto Repair Regulations (00:04:36) Details on how mobile repair regulations led to broader advertising requirements for all shops.
Tracking Numbers & Industry Response (00:06:23) Concerns about tracking numbers, ASCCA’s advocacy, and BAR’s clarification on acceptable phone number practices.
Current Compliance Recommendations (00:08:06) Advice on displaying registered phone numbers and ARD license on websites and digital marketing.
Unresolved Issues & Awaiting Written Guidance (00:09:00) Pending clarity on Google My Business, Facebook, and the need for written BAR guidance.
Best Practices & Consumer Protection (00:09:49) Benefits of displaying ARD numbers for legitimacy and consumer verification.
Sponsor Messages (00:10:11) Promotional messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled.
BAR’s Enforcement Approach & Dynamic Number Insertion (00:12:03) Discussion of BAR’s grace period, enforcement, and allowance for dynamic number insertion on websites.
Multi-location Shops & Digital Marketing Requirements (00:13:50) Clarification on advertising requirements for shops with multiple locations.
Timeline for Finalized BAR Rules (00:14:31) Expected timing and process for BAR to issue finalized, codified advertising regulations.
Other BAR Regulations Related to Advertising (00:16:08) Overview of other BAR regulations, including new storage rules, mostly affecting collision shops.
Legislative Process & Advocacy (00:17:14) Explanation of California’s legislative process and the importance of advocacy through ASCCA.
Benefits of Association Membership (00:18:01) Advantages of joining ASCCA, including legislative representation, networking, and support.
How to Join ASCCA (00:21:58) Steps for joining ASCCA, local chapter involvement, and organizational structure.
Episode Wrap-up & Contact Information (00:23:24) Closing remarks, app download info, sponsor thanks, and encouragement to listen to future episodes.
This episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.
AppFueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
