Ride control complaints are one of the most common types of concerns expressed by customers. Quite often, the customer’s description is vague or misleading. Attempt to gather as much information from them as possible prior to performing an inspection. For example, do you only hear a “funny” noise when driving n bumpy roads or on smooth roads as well? If you suspect that the vehicle is heavily loaded with cargo at times, ask if the “wandering” they experience only occurs when heavily loaded, etc. The customer’s descriptions of an issue should be considered merely as a starting point. It’s up to you to inspect and road test to determine the actual cause of the complaint.
Today’s modern ignition system normally will use a single ignition coil per cylinder, mounted directly or very close to the spark plug: the Coil On Plug (COP) design. Some systems use an individual coil and a small ignition wire in a Coil Near Plug (CNP) setup because the location of the spark plug in the cylinder head won’t allow enough room to directly mount a coil on the spark plug, I consider this a version of COP.
Current ADAS systems not only help in the decision-making process for drivers. They also force shop owners and service technicians to make decisions. Edwin Hazzard explains more in this Auto Service Professional exclusive.
With the ever increasing technology on today’s vehicles comes with ever increasing electrical demands. You would think that electrical failures would be more prevalent than ever on today’s vehicles.
“My engine blew a head gasket and now it overheats.” That’s a fairly commonly heard knee-jerk diagnosis. However, it’s wrong. When an engine overheats or if the gasket allows coolant or combustion gasses to escape, do not automatically blame the gasket. Cylinder head gaskets can be viewed similar to a fuse. If the gasket “fails,” this is a symptom that something other than the gasket itself caused the failure.
Automotive technicians all have their own individual style and approach to diagnostics and education. But most techs will tell you that if they understand how the system is supposed to work and the components involved, the diagnostic repair journey is usually easier. Automotive technology is constantly changing, it never seems to stop, but keeping up with this constant change is a demanding task.
Performing thorough vehicle inspections can grow your shop's revenue and when done right, will make customers happy. There are several things that you should not overlook when examining vehicles.
AMSOIL has introduced two new 100% synthetic diesel oils engineered to meet the demands of diesel engines in smaller, half-ton pickups and other passenger vehicles.
According to the latest data from automotive industry research firm IMR Inc., 91% of independent auto service facilities have reported a drop in revenue this year, driven by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
With 2020 drawing to a close, it’s time for you to work "on" your business, not "in" your business, according to auto service industry expert Jeff Morgan, who shares practical, profit-generating action items that will set your operation up for a successful 2021.
Dana Inc. has added Victor Reinz Wave-Stopper multi-layer steel (MLS) gaskets to its aftermarket portfolio, featuring Dana-patented technology designed to address the increased sealing requirements of head gaskets in today’s light and commercial diesel engines and forced-induction vehicles.
Plews & Edelmann's new Edelmann Elite Power Steering Filter features an innovative design for enhanced performance and nearly universal application coverage.
Four Seasons now offers a line of aftermarket light car and truck brushless blower motors, developed and manufactured in North America, according to Ron Miller, director of marketing, Standard Motor Products Temp Control Division.
Innova Electronics Corp. has introduced its Innova 5420 Power Check powered circuit tester, which lets users quickly and safely test and apply power/ground to switches, relays, fans and electrical circuits.
Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) has launched the Automotive Education Program (AEP) to assist instructors and help automotive technology students develop professional skills they can use in the bay.
The Moore-Safe Jack (GT-20MS) from Gaither Tool Co. is designed to cradle vehicle components in an effort to reduce the risk of vehicle slippage through misplacement or load shift.
Advics is adding 62 SKUs to its line of ultra-premium disc brake pads, which significantly boosts the company's coverage of all late model Japanese and Korean vehicles.
NGK Spark Plugs has been named the brand with the highest increase in U.S. market share in the maintenance and repair super category as part of The NPD Group’s 2020 Automotive Aftermarket Performance Awards.
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