A tentative agreement between General Motors (GM) and the United Auto Workers (UAW) union could end a month-long strike. But, Wisconsin body shops are feeling the impact.
Local car shops are struggling to find simple parts for GM cars. Now, mechanics are hoping this is all resolved soon so business can get back to normal.
"I really don't have a lot of GM cars here so I'm grateful because I would be pulling my hair out of my head," said Michael Maloney, who works at Westway Auto Body shop in West Allis.
Maloney has a General Motors car that should have been finished a while ago, but he says because of the GM strike, he can't find the part.
"I am looking everywhere and anywhere. I feel bad for other body shops too," said Maloney.
The United Auto Workers union has been on strike against GM for about a month. The protests have closed 33 manufacturing plants, along with 22 distribution facilities.
That's why over at Pinkey's Capital Auto Body shop, they are also having trouble finding parts. Normally the door would arrive in a few days, but it took about 3 weeks and they had to special-order it.
"Delivery from some of our GM parts, not all of the GM parts, but on some special orders ... we have alternative sources we can use where we can avoid General Motors altogether, but every case is unique," said Steven Schultz, who works at Pinkey's Capital Auto Body shop.
Steven says if you have a GM vehicle that needs repairs, check with the shop beforehand to see how long that might take.
