Government Regulations and Braking Performance: How Uncle Same Sets the Standards
Everybody wants safe brakes, right? You want the assurance that any brake linings you install on a customer’s vehicle will provide adequate braking and meet all applicable safety standards. But guess what? There are no federal safety standards for aftermarket brake linings. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) 105 and 135, which are issued by
How Do You Spell Customer Service?
by Mary Della Valle In running a successful import service business today, you need loyal, repeat customers. Just as importantly, you also need reliable, reputable suppliers. Any way you look at it, your parts suppliers play an important role in the day-to-day operation of your shop. So choosing suppliers should be a well-thought-out decision. In
Directions: Issues that Could Impact 2006
As we usher in a new year, we thought we would take a look into the ol’ crystal ball and try to see what issues technicians, shop owners and others associated with the aftermarket can expect in 2006. These are not ranked by order of importance, but as a guide to what one can expect
Optimum Driving Comfort and Low Fuel Consumption – DualTronic Transmission Technology from BorgWarner
The new transmission concept has its origins in motorsports. Back in the 1970s, it was Porsche who developed the first dual-clutch gearbox for its Group C Porsche 962. The advanced technology finally made its debut in series production development in 2003 in the VW Golf R32 DSG (direct-shift gearbox) and the Audi TT 3.2.
A New Tool to Keep You Up to Date
Do you have Internet access at your shop? If so, is the computer with Internet access in a location so your techs can easily use it to find technical repair information? I hope the answer to both of these questions is yes, but I know it isn’t. Nonetheless, the computer remains a viable tool in
Looming Mandate: Without Help, Shops Face Dark Future
…How Will You Cope?
Nissan Suspension Repairs
Basic Safety Checks Benefit Both Your Shop and Your Customers
Back From Vegas
Last month I attended the grandaddy of all automotive trade shows in Las Vegas. “Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week” (AAIW) is a multi-show affair that fills both the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Sands Expo Center with more than 2 million square feet of exhibits and cars. The event is not open to the general
Tech Tip: Can Loaded Brake Calipers Boost Productivity?
Some technicians like loaded calipers because everything they need comes in one box. They don’t have to worry about mismatched parts from different suppliers and the complete assemblies are quick and easy to install. Most importantly, they see fewer comebacks because of brake noise or other problems.
Comprehensive Family of Automotive Diagnostic Tools Showcased in New Actron Catalog
The full-color, 32-page catalog includes sections on scan tools and code readers, multimeters and analyzers, timing lights, testers, remote starters, vacuum pumps and brake bleed kits, as well as an array of accessories, cables and carrying cases.