Diagnostic Solutions: Exhaust Restriction Diagnosis
Shops have been dealing with loss-of-power complaints caused by exhaust restriction since catalytic converters were popularly introduced in 1974.
Diagnosing Chassis Noises
Diagnosing chassis noises can be one of the most frustrating problems a technician can be called upon to deal with. Although modern quality-control measures on the production line have vastly reduced the number of chassis noise complaints, they still exist. In the aftermarket, repair oversights, worn parts and normal wear most often cause noises.
The Power of Assessing Power Steering Complaints
Steering complaints can be among the most difficult to diagnose, so let’s take a look at how we can leverage better diagnostics to become more efficient and effective.
How to Sell and Use Automotive Chemicals
In the modern era of reduced vehicle maintenance requirements, it’s very easy to develop a complacent attitude toward automotive chemicals. But in our current market, many are essential tools for keeping a modern vehicle in top-notch operating condition.
Lube Bay Strategies for Vehicle Inspections
The traditionally recommended 3,000-mile oil change interval is now rapidly becoming part of automotive history, meaning shops may have a reduced number of repairs sold during a routine lube bay visit. Here’s how to check for added profits during a standard oil change.
Selling Modern Spark Plug Technology
Because modern engines run so well for so long, many customers have either forgotten or fail to understand the need for periodic spark plug replacements. For that reason, many spark plug replacements have become major repairs that often require two or three hours of time and a wide array of tooling to complete.
Complete Brake Job Protects Driver, Other Vehicle Components
The problem with routines is that we tend to – you guessed it – fall into them. Because the braking systems on many modern vehicles are integrated into other systems like vehicle stability control (VSC) and traction control, modern braking systems must meet minimum levels of performance. Last, but not least, a service writer must
Learning the Terminology is Key to Selecting the Correct Chassis Part
The best method of selecting the correct chassis part is to use the correct chassis terminology. In many cases, parts professionals and automotive technicians should consult illustrations that are included with most cataloging to ensure the part will perform the desired function.
How to Avoid Brake Pad Installation Errors
Brake pads are most often returned because they lack pedal sensitivity, stopping power, resistance to dusting, excessive noise or vibration, or resistance to wear. It’s important to determine if the complaint is caused by incorrect installation or an incorrect application of the friction material itself.
Cold Weather Brings Battery Sales Opportunities
If you live in the northern half of the country like I do, the hot summer will soon change to a cool fall. The leaves begin to change and the cold months of October and November will soon bring a rush of cold-weather battery performance complaints to your counter. Terminal VoltageIt’s imperative to remember the
Technical Information: Can Stores Help?
During my 30-plus years of installing aftermarket parts, the disconnect between supplying technical information at the jobber level and installing the products he sells has become increasingly puzzling. Each year, the aftermarket spends millions of dollars replacing perfectly good fuel pumps, alternators, starters, batteries, ignition modules, computers and just about anything else associated with the
Training is an Attitude
During the 1920s, the term "model year" gained currency in the automotive industry. Auto execs determined to increase sales by annually introducing new automobiles to a motoring public hungry for the prestige of owning the latest motor vehicle technology. Because the operative word in "model year" is "change," an outside observer would assume that the