Time and a Half
One of the hot-button issues in the independent automotive service industry is how to charge for diagnostic time. Currently, the debate is framed by two basic schools of thought. The practitioners of the first school are the shop managers who regard “free diagnostic code reads” as a marketing expense needed to lure potential customers into
Engine Service
And Other Underhood Repair Essentials
Shop Floor Maintenance Made Faster, Easier with New Cleaner/Degreaser
The unique formula of new Oil Eater Cleaner-Degreaser provides a faster and easier way of keeping shop floors looking spick and span. Oil Eater quickly cuts through oil, grease, grime and dirt, encapsulating them into a solution that rinses off easily and leaves no residues.
Foreign Affairs: Probing Around Subaru Electrical Systems
With station wagons, small multi-purpose trucks and high-powered sports models in its product mix, Subaru has become an obvious choice for multi-use purchasers. And, by building one basic platform with all of the right stuff, Subaru has been able to concentrate on quality. That brings us to the topic of this article, Subaru electrical systems.
Foreign Affairs: VW P Codes — … Putting Out The MIL
After 10-plus years of dealing with OBD II, it should be apparent that we are on a learning curve that probably has no end. Almost daily we have a Volkswagen model come into the shop with a check engine light on, or a “state OBD II failure” form. Although we have the latest scanner software
Tech Tip: Honda Ticking Noise from the Engine
A ticking noise may come from the V6 engine of 1994-’97 Passports during normal operation. According to Honda, the probable cause is one or more hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs) does not fully extend due to varnish buildup inside. This condition results from exceeding the required oil and filter change schedule.
Tech Info For Servicing Parts
Central Port Fuel Injection Diagnosis
Kia: Timing Belt Replacement
This month, we’re going to take a look at timing belt replacement on the increasingly popular Kia line of vehicles. Kia has made strong inroads into the market by offering high-quality vehicles at an affordable price. As import car techs, we’re prepared to handle any of these cars: We have the required skills and, with
Foreign Affairs: Getting Nissan Engines Back to Peak Performance
/Articles/06_01_2007/60754gif_00000014067.gif” width=”156″ height=”146″ alt=”” border=”0″ align=”right” /> In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the common problems that affect engine performance. With on-board diagnostics (OBD), many of these problems will cause a check engine lamp (CEL) and store a code. With most of us becoming comfortable and proficient while working with OBD
Viewpoint: Bad Shop? A Reader Responds to Last Months Column
Last month’s column titled “Cleaning Up Other Shops’ Messes” told of how good, honest shops have to sometimes repair the customer’s trust after a “bad shop” injures our industry. Reader Paul Wright, wrote this response. Your column begins with a story told to you from a independent shop owner who recounts his experience with another