Dispelling the Myths: NAPA AUTO PARTS Identifies Common Myths and Provides the Facts
As the weather begins to warm up for most of the country, drivers begin thinking of spring and the services needed to maintain their vehicles now that winter has passed. Unfortunately, it’s during this time of year, that automotive myths are often unintentionally perpetuated. Knowing which stories are myths and which ones are fact can be difficult.
Tech Tip: Honda Engine Service Essentials
While engine-related complaints aren’t common on Honda’s line of vehicles, problems may still arise from time to time. Import Specialist Contributor Bob Dowie walks you through head gasket repair, from diagnosis to estimating the job to gasket replacement, and also discusses the intricacies of timing belt replacement ….
MRSA: It Was Just a Little Scratch
MRSA. No, it’s not a new automotive acronym, and no it does not mean “mister service advisor.” You need to be aware of MRSA and what it means to everyone, especially people like us whose skin is frequently scratched and punctured on the job. WARNING: This article contains graphic images of wounds.
Tech Tip: Front Passenger Seat Accessory Precautions
Post-collision repair requirements differ from manufacturer to manufacturer. Thus, you must be prepared to evaluate, research and document each and every crash-damaged vehicle that’s brought into your repair facility. Seat belts, steering systems, occupant sensors, on-board diagnostics and air bag components and systems, as well as proper alignment of structurally related components, are only a few of the critical considerations confronting you ….
Tech Tip: Opting for Off-Brand or Value-Grade Components Can Be Risky Proposition
In light of the economic situation, it’s a safe bet that consumers will try and save money on car maintenance. This will likely mean greater willingness to opt for off-brand and value-grade components including hub units. Why is this a bad idea?
Tech Feature: Can You Lift It?
You can only make a few mistakes with a lift before it costs more than the lesson is worth. What you don’t know can hurt you if you are using or even buying a lift. The first thing any tech must do is to know what they are lifting. If possible, look at the sticker on the door jam to find out the weight of the vehicle and distribution. But never take this number for granted. Look inside the vehicle to see what the driver is carrying and where the weight is situated ….
Diagnostic Solutions: Replacing Water Pumps as Preventive Maintenance
In today’s import repair market, it’s not uncommon to see a vehicle with well over 200,000 miles on the odometer that still is in cosmetically and mechanically “great” condition. The importance of this trend is that many parts that were formerly being replaced on an as-needed basis are now being replaced on a preventive basis.
Tech Tip: 15 Tips on Servicing Ford F-150s
A bold new look and some subtle changes probably best describe the 2004-and-up Ford F-150. To the technician, it is the subtle changes that he or she needs to be aware of. Beginning with the 2004 model year, Ford launched a new body style for the F-150. It is a new vehicle inside and out. However, not all of the 2004 F-150s that you see will be the new body style. The 2004 F-150 was also made ….
Belt and Hose Inspections
Don’t Lose Potential Profits by Missing Replacement Opportunities
Porsche: Maintenance Essentials
Boost System Performance & Customer Satisfaction
Tech Tip: Adding a Fluid Flush Can Boost a Shop’s Average Repair Order
Many shops are recovering revenues lost to a shrinking repair market by "upselling" fluid maintenance services or, as they’re commonly called in the aftermarket, "fluid flushes." In other words, adding a fluid flush to a money-losing routine oil change can boost a shop’s average repair order amount into the range needed for true profitability ….
10 Ideas to Effectively Recommend Preventive Maintenance Services
Preventive maintenance has long been a sensitive issue with vehicle owners because many of them feel like the recommended services outlined in their owner’s manual are unnecessary, especially if their vehicle “seems” to be running well. But is their vehicle performing as well as it could be? Are they getting the best gas mileage? Are