Federal-Mogul’s free “SmartChoice Mobile” app for automotive service providers has been selected for the Frost & Sullivan North American Customer Value Leadership Award. The Frost & Sullivan award is presented annually to a company that has demonstrated excellence in implementing strategies that proactively create value for its customers. Representatives of the Federal-Mogul Vehicle Components segment received the award Jan. 14 during the Frost & Sullivan Excellence in Best Practices Awards Gala in New Orleans.
The SmartChoice Mobile app enables users of iPhone and Android devices to instantly access the latest Federal-Mogul parts information and technical support for virtually any passenger car or light truck, and communicate detailed inspection findings – including photos and repair estimates – directly to the vehicle owner. The app includes VIN-scanning technology that can instantly capture critical vehicle information and link the user to all corresponding parts and repair information via Federal-Mogul’s www.FMe-Cat.com applications database.
“Federal-Mogul has revolutionized the repair sector by providing service professionals with a tool that integrates the three basic components of the repair process: fast, accurate identification of the vehicle application; detailed information about the parts needed for the repair; and clear, concise communication with the consumer,” wrote the Frost & Sullivan Best Practices research team.
The Frost & Sullivan team highlighted three key characteristics that make SmartChoice Mobile uniquely valuable for repair professionals: Ease of use (the app features a highly intuitive user interface that minimizes the number of data inputs and clicks necessary to access information); availability across multiple platforms; and the unparalleled breadth of available content and live technical support.
Nearly 5,500 industry professionals have downloaded the app since its introduction in late September.
“SmartChoice Mobile is a central part of the growing digital ecosystem available to professional technicians who rely on any Federal-Mogul product,” said Brian Tarnacki, director, global market strategy, Federal-Mogul Vehicle Components segment. “The entire automotive parts and service industry depends on the continued operational efficiency and competitiveness of independent service businesses. This tool, like our many other online and in-market technical resources, is ultimately an investment in our customers’ long-term success.”
Vehicle service professionals can use the app’s “Send Inspection Results” feature to compose and send to the consumer a shop-branded email, complete with inspection results, repair estimates and images of the vehicle’s worn parts. This email summary also includes instant-reply and callback buttons to encourage the vehicle owner to ask questions and/or authorize the repair. Technicians can also use the app to connect with an ASE-certified technical specialist at the Federal-Mogul Technical Education Center (F-M TEC) in St. Louis, Mo.
The free Federal-Mogul SmartChoice Mobile app can be downloaded through the Apple App Store and Google Play as well as the company’s www.SmartChoiceApp.com website.