Tech Tips: Toyota Tacoma Makes Rattling Noises On Rough Roads
Some 2005-’12 model year 4WD Tacoma and 2WD Tacoma PreRunner vehicles may exhibit a steering rattle noise when driven over rough road surfaces.
Editor’s Notebook: Extraordinary Customer Service Begins With A Great First Impression
Continuing last month’s discussion of ways to kick-start the new year, we’ll again focus on shop image because of its direct link to the overall customer experience and your shop’s bottom line. Satisfied customers speak volumes about the service they received, providing you with repeat business and a direct conduit to referrals.
BFGoodrich Launches G-Force Rival Tire In New Orleans
In January, BFGoodrich invited the media and what they call “key influencers” to the newly built NOLA Motorsports Park in New Orleans to test and evaluate the company’s new DOT extreme performance street/race tire, the g-Force Rival. With a background in motorsports, I could not wait to get behind the wheel to try these “race” tires.
MotoLogic Software Tool
Advance Auto Parts recently announced the addition of OE repair and diagnostic information for manufacturers Audi, Mazda, Mercedes and Volkswagen to its MotoLogic repair and diagnostic software tool. Features include fast navigation, accurately rendered, original OE content, ease of use and depth of information. And included in the rollout of additional manufacturer coverage is the
Automotive Parts Associates Gives Winners ‘The Drive of a Lifetime’
In January, three winners of the Professionals’ Choice Scratch & Win promotion and their guests had a memorable time driving Lamborghinis and Ferraris at the Disney Speedway in Orlando, FL. The winners were Craig Callahan from John’s Auto Repair in Hightstown, NJ; Ron Vaughn from Vaughn’s Mr. Muffler in Dubuque, IA; and Alfred Wilkins from Wonder Auto & Tire in Riverview, NB.
Editor’s Notebook: New Year, Fresh Start
As you begin the year with a clean slate, realize that every facet of your business should be positioned to support your shop’s value proposition. Here are a few things to think about as you work on ways to fulfill your shop’s mission and grow your business.
Gonzo’s Toolbox: Handling Temporary Helpers
There are times when I find I have more helpers in the shop than I have on the payroll. I didn’t ask for this extra help, but there they are, right in the middle of the shop. Who are they, and where did they come from? Ah, yes, it’s those customers who want to keep an extra eye on their ride.
Diagnostic Solutions: Starter & Battery Diagnostics
Import Specialist Contributor Gary Goms says that early 1900s inventor Charles F. Kettering’s electric self-starter transformed the automobile from a temperamental novelty item into a practical means of transportation.
Honda Timing Belts: The First Step In Replacement Is Selling The Job
Bob Dowie, owner of Village Auto, Chester, NY, says that the first step in timing belt replacment is selling the job. While most customers know they need to be
Tech Tip: Honda Civic 1.7L 2001-2005 Tensioner Spring Installation
When installing a GTKWP312 kit on a 2001-2005 Civic 1.7L, it’s crucial that the tensioner spring be installed correctly onto the tensioner. If it’s improperly installed, the open end of the spring hook can catch on the timing belt, possibly leading to severe engine damage.
Tech Tip: Mysterious Leaking Engine Oil Seals On Subarus? Check the PCV!
The Mitchell 1 Techline has heard of a very limited number of cases involving engine oil seals leaking after being displaced from their normal positions. As the engine heats and cools, condensation can accumulate in the PCV system, which, in extreme cold, can eventually turn to ice. Upon closer inspection, technicians have reported finding accumulations
Tech Tip: Mercedes-Benz Alternator/Generator Voltage Regulator Malfunction
On some Mercedes-Benz vehicles, if you encounter insufficient alternator/generator (G2) output, the voltage regulator, integral to G2 output, may be malfunctioning. The voltage regulator may be replaced as a separate part and the procedure in this Tech Tip should be followed.