February, 2025

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As vehicle tech grows, so do repair, maintenance headaches

Auto Service World

Vehicle technology is advancing rapidly, creating new challenges for automotive repair and maintenance, particularly in cybersecurity and access to essential diagnostic information, industry experts said at a recent conference. Donny Seyfer, executive director of the National Automotive Service Task Force, and Vincent DAuria, senior manager of product, safety and compliance at Volvo Car USA, discussed the growing complexities in vehicle repair due to new technologies.

Vehicle 277
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Use Technology to Enhance Shop Safety After Auto Mechanic School

Automotive Training Centre

When you step into the shop after graduating from auto mechanic school , your number-one priority is safety for yourself and your clients. The auto repair industry is evolving; technology is critical in creating safer, more efficient work environments. The right tech can help reduce workplace accidents and improve shop performance, from state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to virtual training simulations.

Mechanic 254
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Missed Appointments Are Costing You Money: How Service Suite Can Boost Your Dealership’s Revenue

Solera

Every empty service bay costs your dealership money. With industry data showing that 20% of service appointments result in no-shows, dealerships leave significant revenue on the table daily. But what if you could dramatically reduce these costly gaps in your schedule? The Hidden Cost of No-Shows No-shows mean lost revenue, which creates a domino effect of idle technicians, unused equipment, and disrupted workflow that impacts your entire operation.

Utilities 246
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Active Ride Control Diagnostics

Brake & Front End

In the 1990s, adjustable valve shocks and struts were all the rage. These systems had two or three comfort and sport settings that could be changed with buttons on the dash. These systems played the role of firming up the suspension if the driver wanted a sporty feel while driving. These systems have evolved to the point where they can actively change dampening characteristics in milliseconds.

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Meet Andrew Champagne, February’s Student of the Month!

Tomorrow's Technician

Andrew Champagne is a 12th-grade student at Upper Valley Career Center in Piqua, OH, who demonstrates a strong passion for automotive technology, particularly in electrical systems. As part of the school’s apprenticeship program, he works at a local GM dealership on a two-week rotation, gaining hands-on experience. Andrew has passed all nine ASE Entry-Level certifications and actively mentors junior students.

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Do I Need an Oil Change Label Printer?

BayIQ

Ensuring repeat business and customer satisfaction is essential for tire, automotive, and quick lube shops. One tool that has been at the forefront of this industry is the oil change label printer. In this blog, we'll explore what an oil change label printer is, its alternatives, and the pros and cons of each option to help you decide what's best for your business.

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Why you shouldn’t sell minority ownership of your shop

Auto Service World

If an employee in your shop shows sudden interest in being a minority owner, you should be cautious, advised an accountant who specializes in the automotive aftermarket. Typically, they see the profitability of the business and want a piece of the action, explained Hunt Demarest, accountant and business valuator with accounting firm Paar Melis. I hate, hate, hate, hate, hate selling minority shares in businesses in an official manner, he said during the session Transitioning Your Business at the

Education 262

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Preparing for April’s Marketing

Shop Marketing Pros

EPISODE: 138 Preparing for Aprils Marketing Dive into actionable marketing strategies for April with hosts Brian Walker and Caroline Legrand in this episode of the “Marketing by the Months” series. From leveraging Spring Car Care Month to hosting car care clinics, youll uncover creative ways to educate customers, build trust, and grow your auto repair shop.

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Lexus repeats as No. 1 on Brand Reputation Scorecard

Auto Remarketing

Lexus is again No. 1 when it comes to brand reputation, according to the latest study by customer review and reputation management platform Widewail. Toyotas luxury brand topped the rankings for the second consecutive year in the 2025 Widewail Brand Scorecard, a study that examines and ranks the reputations of 29 auto brands in the U.S., with a health score of 97.

Retail 126
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NC Auto Instructor Builds Solid Industry Relationships

Tomorrow's Technician

In this episode of Tomorrow’s Technician’s Partnership Pathways Podcast presented by NAPA, Doug Kaufman speaks with Robert Ballard, automotive instructor at Chapel Hill High School in Chapel Hill. Ballard has built an impressive automotive program at his high school, as evidenced by his school being named Blaster Products Instructor of the Year in 2022 and the WIX School of the Year in 2023 but he is quick to acknowledge that success isnt due to his efforts alone.

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Autel: Pushing the Boundaries of Aftermarket Diagnostics 

Brake & Front End

Whether discussing secure gateways or access to functions, software, and specifications on newly released vehicles, aftermarket diagnostic product developers such as Autel are always playing catch up to get that OE-only capability in the hands of our users. Autel has thrived on this challenge, leading the industry in gateway access and developing new platforms that ensure OE-sourced solutions are just a tap away.

Software 130
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The importance of clean bathrooms to your customers

Auto Service World

As handwashing rates soar, the cleanliness of commercial restrooms has become a critical factor in shaping customer perceptions and business reputations. According to a report from Excel Dryers, handwashing has reached unprecedented levels following the pandemic, placing commercial restrooms under intense scrutiny. William Gagnon, COO of Excel Dryer, emphasized the importance of proper hand hygiene, noting that the pandemic heightened awareness of restroom cleanliness and its impact on a company

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Considering Automotive School? Learn How Cybersecurity is Revolutionizing The EV Industry

Automotive Training Centre

The electric vehicle industry is advancing unprecedentedly, blending innovation in mechanics with cutting-edge technology. If you’re considering automotive school , particularly hybrid technology training, now is the perfect time to join an industry thats evolving with the future of transportation. With connectivity on the rise, cybersecurity has become a concern for drivers.

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How To Brand Your Auto Repair Shop as a Concierge Repair Shop

Shop Marketing Pros

What if your customer experience was so good that theyd never think of going to another shop again? Thats the power of concierge auto repairan elevated service model designed to create unforgettable experiences. And heres the thing: you dont have to overhaul everything overnight. If youve ever wanted to attract higher-end clients and transform your reputation, branding your shop as a concierge service could be the game-changer youve been looking for.

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Boost Your Auto Repair Shop Marketing with Bing Ads on Nextdoor

Business Actualization

In today's competitive automotive repair industry, effectively reaching the ideal potential new customers is crucial for sustained growth. One innovative strategy is leveraging Bing Ads to connect with consumers on Nextdoor, a neighborhood-focused social platform. This approach enhances local visibility and builds trust within your community.

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Turbo System Upgrades You Should Know About

Tomorrow's Technician

Turbocharged engines deliver high performance and efficiency, but intense heat can lead to oil and coolant line failure. Issues like cracking, melting, and hydrolysis in plastic components are common and costly if not addressed. In this episode of Inside the Brands, learn how REIN Automotive’s upgraded turbo oil and coolant lines provide a durable, direct-fit solution.

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Tips to Improve the Range of Your EV

Brake & Front End

When it comes to EVs, range is king. But what exactly determines how far we can drive on a single charge? Many factors impact the range, with battery capacity being the most obvious. A larger battery pack typically offers more range, but it also adds weight to the vehicle. This means manufacturers cant always use bigger batteries as the solution to maximize EV range.

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How bidirectional charging could make EVs key players in the energy grid

Auto Service World

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is not just transforming transportation but is poised to reshape energy management through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. V2G enables bidirectional energy transfer, allowing EVs to supply energy back to the grid, effectively turning them into mobile batteries. This innovation, wrote Shazan Siddiqi, senior technology analyst and technical sales at IDTechEx, in a report, is part of the broader vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology trend, which includes vehic

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Hybrid Technology Students: How Mazda’s EV Battery Plan Could Shape the Future

Automotive Training Centre

Mazda, long known for its precision engineering and driver-focused vehicles, is entering the hybrid technology era in earnest. For hybrid technology students, understanding Mazdas approach to EV batteries offers a fascinating glimpse into how a legacy automaker adapts to the growing demand for electrified powertrains. Mazdas electrification strategy is ambitious and innovative.

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Understanding Tax Deadlines as an Auto Repair Shop Owner

AutoShopOwner

Hey, auto repair shop owners! With January behind us, it means one thing is coming down the pike: tax season. Before you grit your teeth at the thought of filing, its important for you to understand that staying on top of your tax obligations is crucial for the health of your business. And, as always, weve got your back, which is why were here to break down the key tax deadlines you need to keep in mind, especially as we move through the year.

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7 Tips for Creating Your Tire Shop Sign

BayIQ

An eye-catching and effective sign for your tire shop can set you apart and drive traffic to your business. Discover 7 essential tips for creating tire shop signs that make a bold statement about your business and attract new customers.

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Cleaning Car Battery Terminals

Tomorrow's Technician

One crucial vehicle component that often gets overlooked is the car battery. Over time, battery terminals can accumulate corrosion, dirt and other debris, which can hinder the flow of electricity and potentially cause starting issues or even complete battery failure. That’s why it’s crucial to clean the car battery terminals regularly. Working with car batteries can be hazardous if proper safety measures are not taken.

Car 130
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Correct Components and Calibrations Critical After Collisions

Brake & Front End

While some of the aspects of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems or ADAS still seem like cutting edge technology found only in the worlds most advanced vehicles, the truth is that some of these systems have been around for decades, giving the promise of safer driving experiences to drivers all over the world. Unfortunately, even though modern vehicles are equipped with increasingly advanced electronic safety systems, traffic fatalities have been on the rise since 2014, and while distracted driv

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Why techs, not advisors, should build tickets

Auto Service World

Service advisors should not be in charge of building tickets the job should be given to the ones who are working directly on the vehicle and who know exactly what they will need to do the job. That was the advice from Jay Huh, a business coach at Shop Fix Academy and North Carolina-based shop owner. For example, the service advisor may not know that the part theyre ordering doesnt come with bolts.

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4 Ways to Leverage Technology as a Maintenance Technician After Auto Mechanic School

Automotive Training Centre

After graduating from an auto mechanic school , maintenance technicians often find themselves in a fast-paced and ever-evolving industry. Today, technology is pivotal in improving maintenance technicians’ work efficiency, accuracy, and overall quality. By embracing these technological tools, you can elevate your performance, provide better service, and ensure long-term success in the field.

Mechanic 191
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Marketing Tools and Tech Ideas for Auto Repair Shops

Shop Marketing Pros

EPISODE: 139 Marketing Tools and Tech Ideas for Auto Repair Shops Marketing your auto repair shop can be overwhelming, but with the right tools, it doesnt have to be. Brian and Kim Walker break down essential marketing tools and tech to make the process easier, more effective, and even enjoyable. Discover how to simplify your social media strategy with tools like Meta Business Suite and Canva, optimize your website performance with SEMrush and Google Analytics, and create better customer engage

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Ditch the Shuttle Van: How On-Demand Rides Are Changing Fixed Ops for Good

Solera

Managing traditional shuttle services drains resources, time, and money that could drive your dealerships growth. Between managing drivers, maintaining vehicles, and juggling customer schedules, your team spends valuable energy on transportation logistics instead of focusing on what matters most selling and servicing vehicles. The Real Cost of Old-School Shuttles Consider this: Youre paying for vehicles, insurance, maintenance, and dedicated staffeven during slow periods when your shuttles are

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Taking EV Safety Seriously: Essential Procedures for Automotive Repair Facilities

Tomorrow's Technician

Electric vehicle (EV) safety is a crucial topic in modern automotive repair facilities. High-voltage systems can be intimidating, but with proper knowledge and respect for safety protocols, servicing EVs is no more dangerous than working on conventional vehicles. The key to safe EV maintenance lies in understanding the technology, adhering to manufacturer guidelines, and using the right tools and personal protective equipment (PPE).

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Electric Vehicle Performance in Extreme Weather Conditions

Brake & Front End

One factor that significantly impacts EV battery performance is temperature fluctuations. Currently, EVs rely on lithium-ion batteries, which are sensitive to environmental conditions, particularly temperature. The Ideal Temperature Range for EV Batteries Lithium-ion batteries operate optimally within a specific temperature range, typically between 68F and 86F.

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Why online presence is crucial to target younger buyers

Auto Service World

New data from GoDaddy found that small businesses must maintain a strong online presence to attract Gen Z and Millennial consumers, who heavily rely on online research before making purchases. That online presence is vital for small businesses, especially if their target audience includes Gen Z or Millennials. GoDaddy reported that not having an online presence could significantly impact a business’s bottom line.

Media 191
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Understanding the Importance of Calibration Procedures After Hybrid Technology Training

Automotive Training Centre

As hybrid and electric vehicles become more common on the roads, the safety, reliability, and performance standards have never been higher. Hybrid technology training equips you with the knowledge and skills to service these advanced vehicles, but once the training ends, keeping these systems properly calibrated is vital. This blog post explores what calibration is and its importance to the various automotive components that rely on it.

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How to Find the Perfect Name for Your Auto Repair Shop

BayIQ

Choosing the right name for your auto repair shop is a strategic decision that can shape your brand identity. The name of your shop is the first impression potential customers have and can significantly influence their decision to trust your services. Consider these strategies and factors to craft a name that truly represents your business.

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Service Suite Shuttle OnDemand

Solera

Managing traditional shuttle services drains resources, time, and money that could drive your dealerships growth. Between managing drivers, maintaining vehicles, and juggling customer schedules, your team spends valuable energy on transportation logistics instead of focusing on what matters most selling and servicing vehicles. The Real Cost of Old-School Shuttles Consider this: Youre paying for vehicles, insurance, maintenance, and dedicated staffeven during slow periods when your shuttles are

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Tips to Improve the Range of Your EV

Tomorrow's Technician

When it comes to EVs, range is king. But what exactly determines how far we can drive on a single charge? Many factors impact the range, with battery capacity being the most obvious. A larger battery pack typically offers more range, but it also adds weight to the vehicle. This means manufacturers cant always use bigger batteries as the solution to maximize EV range.

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The Reality of EV Maintenance: Opportunities for Shops and Technicians

Brake & Front End

Electric vehicles share some similarities with their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, but they also require unique maintenance. These vehicles use advanced liquid cooling systems to regulate the temperature of critical components, such as the high-voltage battery pack, power electronics, and electric motor. To keep the system effective and prevent issues, technicians must regularly service the coolant.

ASE 130
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Businesses face major recruiting challenges

Auto Service World

Many small businesses are struggling with hiring and that will continue to be a trend in 2025, according to Robert Half. The business consulting firms recent survey explored the top recruiting obstacles small and midsize businesses (SMBs) are currently facing. The survey, which included responses from over 1,700 hiring managers at small (20-99 employees) and midsize (100-999 employees) companies, provides insights to help SMBs navigate the complex hiring landscape.

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A Guide to Removing Odours After Auto Detailing Training

Automotive Training Centre

Bad odours in vehicles are not only annoying but can also significantly impact a car’s overall value and appeal. If youre considering a career after auto detailing training , understanding the root causes of odours and learning effective techniques for odour removal are crucial skills. At Automotive Training Centres (ATC) in Cambridge, the Auto Detailing program is designed to equip students with the hands-on knowledge they need to excel in this field.