Sat.Sep 28, 2024 - Fri.Oct 04, 2024

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Why there’s growing demand for independent EV repair

Auto Service World

Tesla’s dominance in the EV market has been a double-edged sword for the company: On one hand, they have the top market share in North America; on the other, their vehicle owners are plagued by long wait times and dissatisfied customer service. That means the automotive aftermarket has a chance to swoop in and take some of their business, noted Carolyn Coquillette, owner of Earthling Automotive in San Francisco and founder of Shop-Ware.

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New Wheel Bearing Designs 

Brake & Front End

From an engineer’s perspective, wheel bearing design and selection can be a balancing act between durability, cost and fuel economy. A large bearing might be great to offset potholes and heavy loads, but there is only so much room in the hub and knuckle. Also, the larger bearing might have increased rolling resistance due to a larger sealing surface.

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Why Auto Repair Shops Can’t Afford to Wait: Proactive Sales Actions to Keep Your Bays Full

Business Actualization

In the auto repair world, many shop owners and service advisors make the mistake of passively waiting for customers to walk through the door. While marketing efforts like direct mail, Google Ads , and SEO are crucial for driving visibility, they aren't enough to ensure a steady flow of work. Most shops rely heavily on automated follow-ups or reminders from their CRM, hoping customers will return for overdue services.

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The Future of Home Charging for Students in Automotive Training

Automotive Training Centre

Automotive training is essential for students specializing in hybrid technology, especially as more drivers seek greener alternatives. Understanding the current and future trends in home charging technology can open up exciting career opportunities in this evolving field. This blog post will explore these trends and how they can shape your future in the automotive industry.

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Experience the NEW Engine Rebuild Race at AAPEX 2024

Tomorrow's Technician

Get ready for a technical skill showdown that will keep you on the edge of your seat! For the first time ever, eight teams of technical school students from across the country will disassemble and reassemble Holden V6 engines live at AAPEX, while trying to beat the clock. Don’t miss your chance to cheer the automotive aftermarket industry’s rising stars to victory — and have some extra fun while you’re getting business done!

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Top tech features car owners want

Auto Service World

With car manufacturers packing more technology into vehicles than ever before, a recent survey highlights which features drivers can’t live without — and which ones they’re willing to pay extra for. Car manufacturers are increasingly incorporating advanced technology features into modern vehicles to enhance safety and convenience. A recent survey conducted by Uswitch aimed to identify the tech features that car owners find most useful and those that would influence them to pay more f

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5 Reasons Your Social Media is Struggling and How to Fix It

Shop Marketing Pros

Social media is one of the most powerful tools for your auto repair shop, but if you’re not taking full advantage of it, you’re missing out. We get it—there are valid reasons why shop owners struggle to post consistently. But here’s the thing: those reasons can’t stand in the way of growing your business. Let’s tackle these common issues head-on and give you the strategies to turn things around.

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EV Coolant Specifications

Tomorrow's Technician

The coolant specified by most BEV OEMs calls for a non-conductive coolant. Formulating non-conductive coolants typically involves using base fluids and additives that do not ionize in solution. Common base fluids include glycols with organic acid synthetic fluids with low electrical conductivity. Additives are carefully selected to ensure they do not introduce ionic species that could increase conductivity.

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Why you should thoroughly inspect vehicles

Auto Service World

Automotive repair has long had a stereotype of technicians purposely looking for work in a vehicle to sell to the customer. When done for the right reasons, it’s what every shop should be doing. Jay Huh, a business coach at Shop Fix Academy and owner of CarMedix in North Carolina, encourages all shops to have their techs thoroughly inspect each vehicle that comes in so that both the shop and customer know of anything that could need work down the road.

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Dealing With EV Range and Charging Concerns 

Brake & Front End

Do EVs have feelings? No. But, you may get that customer in your shop where a customer may state that they “feel” something has changed. In the case of EVs, they can feel their range is reduced or it is taking too long to charge their vehicle. They could be on to something, or the changes in range and charging could be caused by external forces. This is where customer communication becomes an art.

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The Disadvantages of Hybrid Cars And Where an Auto Mechanic Comes in

Automotive Training Centre

Auto mechanics are essential in maintaining hybrid vehicles, which are popular for fuel efficiency and lower emissions but have drawbacks. Understanding these challenges is crucial as the shift towards hybrid and electric technology grows. At ATC, we equip aspiring auto mechanics with the skills and knowledge to address these issues confidently through specialized training in hybrid and electric vehicle technology.

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NexaMotion Acquires 4M Parts Warehouse in North Texas

Tomorrow's Technician

NexaMotion Group (NMG) continues its rapid expansion, acquiring 4M Parts Warehouse out of Cleburne, Texas. Founded in 1977, 4M Parts Warehouse provides premium-quality auto parts for professional repair shops. Terms were not disclosed. 4M Parts Warehouse has 17 locations in North Texas and more than 120 employees. 4M Parts Warehouse President Lanny Martindale will join NexaMotion Group as VP of sales and operations.

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Solera’s Commitment to Sustainability Remains Strong

Solera

Last night, Sustainable Estimatics was nominated at the prestigious Reuters Sustainability Award in the Product Innovation category. We are immensely proud to have been shortlisted from over 700 entries from across the globe. This recognition reaffirms the strides Solera has made in sustainability, and the recognition of our market-leading efforts by Reuters.

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NexaMotion Acquires 4M Parts Warehouse in North Texas

Brake & Front End

NexaMotion Group (NMG) continues its rapid expansion, acquiring 4M Parts Warehouse out of Cleburne, Texas. Founded in 1977, 4M Parts Warehouse provides premium-quality auto parts for professional repair shops. Terms were not disclosed. 4M Parts Warehouse has 17 locations in North Texas and more than 120 employees. 4M Parts Warehouse President Lanny Martindale will join NexaMotion Group as VP of sales and operations.

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In Conversation With Automotive Technician Student Zoey Benoit: Why Experienced Instructors Matter

Automotive Training Centre

For many students, the path to becoming an automotive technician is driven by a fascination with cars and a desire for hands-on work. Zoey Benoit’s journey was no different. While her route into the automotive world wasn’t direct, it was transformative, leading her to the Automotive Training Centre (ATC) in Cambridge. We sat down with Zoey to discuss her experience, how ATC’s unique approach shaped her, and why having instructors with real-world experience is key.

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Active Drivetrains and Differentials

Tomorrow's Technician

Vehicles equipped with 4×4 or all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems are designed to provide advantages throughout the year, but winter tends to bring these vehicles into focus. Technology has provided a means for evolution in these systems especially with active differentials that are controlled electronically. One benefit we do gain from the computerization of these systems is added diagnostic capabilities.

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Charity Scams Are A Spooky Threat To Your Small Business

AutoShopOwner

October is the month of spooks, scares, and, unfortunately, scams. While we're all familiar with haunted houses and slasher movies, there's another kind of horror story that can leave you feeling spooked as an auto repair business owner: financial scams. And one particularly vulnerable area for these scams is charitable giving. The Rise of Charity Scams With the evolution of technology, cybercrime is on the rise - and it’s targeting charities.

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EV Coolant Specifications

Brake & Front End

The coolant specified by most BEV OEMs calls for a non-conductive coolant. Formulating non-conductive coolants typically involves using base fluids and additives that do not ionize in solution. Common base fluids include glycols with organic acid synthetic fluids with low electrical conductivity. Additives are carefully selected to ensure they do not introduce ionic species that could increase conductivity.

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A Professionalism Guide for Future Auto Detailing Entrepreneurs

Automotive Training Centre

If you’re passionate about cars and enjoy providing high-quality service, starting a business in auto detailing after your auto detailing training is a logical and exciting venture. Completing your auto detailing training equips you with the technical skills to restore, clean, and perfectly protect vehicles. But professionalism is key to genuinely thriving as an entrepreneur.

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Engine Maintenance and Inspection

Tomorrow's Technician

hile researching condition-based monitoring for air filters for an upcoming article, I realized that mileage-based replacement intervals are quickly becoming a thing of the past. If you are not familiar with condition-based monitors, they look at the conditions a component or system is subjected to and recommend replacement by using a message or light on the dash.

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How To Work With A Marketing Partner

Shop Marketing Pros

EPISODE: 120 – How To Work With A Marketing Partner Today, we’re diving into a crucial topic— your role in making your marketing partnership a true success. While hiring a marketing company takes a lot of work off your plate, it doesn’t mean you can be completely hands-off. In fact, your involvement is essential to ensure your marketing reaches its full potential.

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Active Drivetrains and Differentials

Brake & Front End

Vehicles equipped with 4×4 or all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems are designed to provide advantages throughout the year, but winter tends to bring these vehicles into focus. Technology has provided a means for evolution in these systems especially with active differentials that are controlled electronically. One benefit we do gain from the computerization of these systems is added diagnostic capabilities.

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Elevating Your Inventory Management: Unleashing Strategies for a Stellar Inventory

Solera

In the complex business operations landscape for independent dealers, the unsung hero is inventory management. This systematic approach to sourcing, storing, and selling inventory plays a pivotal role in ensuring your business maintains a variety of choices for your valuable customers. Here are strategies to metamorphose your inventory from a potential liability to a highly coveted automotive partner.

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Setting Up An EV Charger

Tomorrow's Technician

If you want your shop to service electric vehicles, there is one piece of equipment you need to invest in for diagnostics and repair. It is not an electrically insulated glove, it is a charger. A charger can be a diagnostic tool when customers complain that their EV is not charging. Also, a charger can top off the high-voltage battery if you need to solve a drivability problem.

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The Groups announces Pavey’s successor

Auto Service World

With current CEO Larry Pavey set to retire, The Automotive Parts Services Group announced that Jeff Koviak will take over at the start of next year. Koviak will lead strategic initiatives for The Group membership, a joint partnership between the Federated Alliance and The Pronto Network that is made up of 300 member companies with more than 5,000 locations and 80,000 employees mostly in North America.

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Setting Up An EV Charger

Brake & Front End

If you want your shop to service electric vehicles, there is one piece of equipment you need to invest in for diagnostics and repair. It is not an electrically insulated glove, it is a charger. A charger can be a diagnostic tool when customers complain that their EV is not charging. Also, a charger can top off the high-voltage battery if you need to solvea drivability problem.

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The Most Badass Way to Get More New Customers

AutoShopOwner

The Most Badass Way to Get More New Customers for your repair shop Without Wasting a Dime on Advertising This is The Most Badass Way to Get More New Customers for your repair shop Without Wasting a Dime on Advertising…even if your last promo, postcard orf digital ad was nothing more than a Big Waste of Money! I’m hosting a brand new LIVE Training Sunday, September 29th at 7:00pm Eastern.

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Welcome Back, Pop Quizzers!

Tomorrow's Technician

If you knew the correct answers to five random questions regarding general automotive trivia, congratulations. You’ve been entered into our drawing for a Starbucks $10 gift card. This month’s Pop Quiz was created with the generous support of Tech Force Foundation. If your name is listed below, double congratulations! Congratulations to: • Shawn Conell, UAF/CTC Automotive Technology, Fairbanks, AK • Braydin Duffy, Waterloo High School, Waterloo, IL • Aaron Hicks, Arkansas State Univer

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Continental expands VDO SingleViu Gauge line

Auto Service World

Continental has announced an expanded line of VDO SingleViu Gauges, designed for use as original equipment or service replacements. These gauges are compatible with both traditional analog senders and J1939 or OBDII CAN networks. Each gauge features a microprocessor that allows dual-input capability, switching from its default analog input to J1939/OBDII CAN via the SingleViu configuration software.

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Understanding Catalytic Converters and Oxygen Sensors

Brake & Front End

In this video, Andrew Markel explains the importance of dual oxygen sensors in catalytic converters and their role in monitoring exhaust efficiency. Learn how these sensors adjust fuel trims, store oxygen in catalyst beds, and ensure peak performance of the converter. Discover why faulty sensors can affect exhaust reduction and what to check during vehicle maintenance.

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2025 Volkswagen Taos Gets a Power Boost and Refreshed Style

Automotive Fleet

The new model year compact SUV receives a revised 1.5L turbocharged engine, while new driver assistance systems aim to increase safety across all trims.

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Understanding Catalytic Converters and Oxygen Sensors

Tomorrow's Technician

In this video, Andrew Markel explains the importance of dual oxygen sensors in catalytic converters and their role in monitoring exhaust efficiency. Learn how these sensors adjust fuel trims, store oxygen in catalyst beds, and ensure peak performance of the converter. Discover why faulty sensors can affect exhaust reduction and what to check during vehicle maintenance.

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Transit launches new Kugel brand products

Auto Service World

Transit Inc. announced the launch of new products under its Kugel brand, the CV Axle New Assembly and the CV Intermediate Shaft. The CV Axle New Assembly is a new unit designed to meet original equipment standards for fit, form and function. Built entirely from new materials, it eliminates the need for core returns. The assembly features 3D OEM FIT Technology, ensuring a plug-and-play, hassle-free replacement experience with a direct fit guarantee to original equipment.

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Understanding Modern Headlight Technologies

Brake & Front End

Headlight technology has come a long way, and understanding these advancements can help you recommend the best options for your customers. In this article, we explore halogen, HID, LED, and adaptive headlights, discussing their performance, lifespan, and energy efficiency. Learn how to diagnose headlight issues, offer tailored solutions, and increase sales by enhancing customer safety and satisfaction.

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Don't Be Surprised if Tesla Robotaxi Unveiled on October 10 Will Not Live up to the Hype

autoevolution

Everyone, especially Tesla fans, expects Tesla to blow people's minds on October 10 during the "We, Robots" event set for the Robotaxi unveiling. With so much hype surrounding the event, there is a high chance that reality will not meet expectations, and the event will prove rather disappointing. If you're a Tesla fan or investor, you already know what was causing Tesla shares to trend hig. ( continue reading.

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Understanding Modern Headlight Technologies

Tomorrow's Technician

Headlight technology has come a long way, and understanding these advancements can help you recommend the best options for your customers. In this article, we explore halogen, HID, LED, and adaptive headlights, discussing their performance, lifespan, and energy efficiency. Learn how to diagnose headlight issues, offer tailored solutions, and increase sales by enhancing customer safety and satisfaction.

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BCA adds new wheel hub hardware kits

Auto Service World

NTN, the parent company of BCA Bearings, announced the launch of the BCA Wheel Hub with Hardware Kits product line. This adds 27 new SKUs for popular import and domestic applications and coverage for over 16.3 million vehicles in operation. These kits include a premium OE-quality wheel bearing that includes the hardware needed to install them. The hardware included varies by SKU and includes hub mounting bolts/studs, axle/CV nuts, axle/CV bolts, axle/CV washers, snap rings/circlips, dust caps, g