Handling Hybrid Vehicle Service
In light of unstable fuel costs, consumers are once again returning tobasic transportation by trading in their old gas-guzzling SUVs for moreeconomical vehicles, especially those powered by hybrid electricvehicle (HEV) technology. This was especially evident in thegovernment’s Cash For Clunkers program, which had to be extended due tothe surprisingly swift consumer response to the program.Hybrid
On-Car Brake Lathes Save Time on Rotor Resurfacing
One of my favorite pieces of shop equipment is the on-the-car brake lathe. Not only does it resurface the rotors to the center line of the wheel bearings, it also speeds the job up in some cases – a win/win situation.
Power Assist: Servicing Saturn VUE Hybrids
General Motors’ first foray into hybrid technology came in 2007 with the introduction of a hybrid version of the Saturn VUE.The hybrid version of the VUE was initially referred to as the “Green Line” model because of its improved fuel economy: 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway versus 22/27 for the regular version of
Fix Customers’ Cooling System Troubles as Weather Heats Up
t’s in great working condition, hot weather poses no challenge. It’s the cooling systems that are marginal or in need of maintenance or repair that will run into trouble when the dog days of summer arrive.Probably the most troublesome component in any cooling system is the thermostat. The thermostat’s job is to speed engine warm-up
Select Power Tools That Meet Your Service Needs
A power tool, loosely defined, is anything used as a means of accomplishing a task using mechanical energy. All power tools use mechanical energy to accomplish tasks that would otherwise be difficult – or even impossible – to accomplish by hand. Now think about all the jobs that we are able to accomplish with power
The Loss Control Imperative
Profitability increases the value of your company and provides the capital you need to invest in growing your operations. It should be your most critical point of focus. But perhaps an even more critical focus for a viable business goes beyond making profits to retaining profits. Far too many tire dealerships end up operating
Reassuring and Serving Customers Suffering From Sticker Shock
There was never a doubt in my mind that I would own a BMW one day. Call it fate, call it kismet, karma…whatever. I’ve had my eye on that propeller badge since infancy and nothing could stop me from buying that car. Well, almost nothing. I put off ownership of a small BMW for years
The ‘New’ Teamwork Approach to Problems
Communication, teamwork, cooperation, and other such buzzwords of the MBA consultants aren’t news to most of us who have been involved in the truck tire industry for more than a few years. No doubt, these are all good words, even worthy goals in many instances. But I’ve long had a bit of a problem with
‘Big Company’ Marketing Savvy Can be Great for Tire Dealers
In very basic terms, marketers consider two primary groups: Leaders and Followers. Because most consumer goods and services evolve over time, Leaders can become Followers and vice versa. So these targets are regularly sifted, sought and catered to. Leaders seek out the latest technology or design or performance, constantly seeking an edge in their lives.
Taking Stock: Be Ready with Performance Upgrade Options for 2010
Many times over the years, the automotive aftermarket has been given a platform that has largely contributed to a $35+ billion industry. This year, that car was the 2010 Camaro. Baer Brakes has introduced their Baer Claw Extreme (one piece rotors) and Extreme-Plus (two piece rotors) brake systems in the 14-inch 6S and massive 15-inch