Looking Forward: What Economic Indicators Are You Looking At?
There was a recent forum thread on the International Automotive Technicians Network (iATN.net) that asked when will the market shift? When will things start changing in a positive manner that will benefit shops?
Tech Feature: 2010 Buick LaCrosse Brake Service
The 2010 Buick LaCrosse is built on the Epsilon II platform that is shared with the Saab 9-5 and other soon-to-be-named vehicles. While you may not see this vehicle in your bays for a while, it is a great example of how the common brake job will stay the same and how it will change in the future.
Selling Shocks & Struts: Getting Past Your Feelings so You Can Sell More Ride Control
Early in my career, I was young, stupid and drove some of the most dangerous vehicles in terms of unperformed repairs because I knew that I could fix it “someday.” I believed in the philosophy that a car was half worn, not half broken.
The Electronic Parking Brake:
A recent variation is the electric parking brake. First installed in the 2001 electric brakes have since appeared in a number of vehicles.
Ford Recall: The Problem is the Brake Fluid in the Switch – The Solution is a Fuse
Ford is performing the largest ever recall for a brake light switch on the side of the master cylinder. The recall will cover 9.6 million Ford vehicles made between 1992 and 2004.
VIEWPOINT: The Carpocalypse: What does it mean to shops?
Last month, I had a chance to attend a panel discussion at Northwood University in Midland, MI, titled “Reinventing the Wheel.” The panel featured the usual analysts and industry experts, but it also had a new car dealer and an executive vice president of a major aftermarket parts program group. The event was held in conjunction with the Northwood University International Auto Show.
POST YOUR COMMENTS: Dealing with Consumers Online Can Be Frustrating
When we redesigned the brakeandfrontend.com website, we permitted people to make comments on articles. Anybody can ask a question or share their opinion and it gets posted immediately.
I manage the comments and respond to readers on a regular basis. Some of the comments and dialog between repair shop professionals is great, sometimes better than the article or news item itself. It has also been a great way for some aftermarket companies to address customers’ questions and concerns.
BRAKE JOB: Seventh Generation Accord (2003-’08)
The seventh-generation Honda Accord (2003-’08) and Acura TL are some of the top-selling vehicles in the U.S. They have a very simple brake system to service, but it can be prone to brake noise if not serviced properly.
10 Ways to Prevent & Resolve Tire & Rim Slippage Problems
Wheel slippage has long been a point of concern in the tire industry, usually with high-output engines and high-torque applications, primarily on farm equipment and commercial trucks.
Tech Tip: Brake Pedal Sinks When First Pulling Away (2001-’05 Impala and Monte Carlo)
Customers may complain of a very slight loss of speed and sinking of the brake pedal when first pulling out of a driveway or parking lot.
Brake Safety Awareness Week: August 23-29
For the third consecutive year, the Motorist Assurance Program (MAP) is sponsoring Brake Safety Awareness Week. The event is annually held the final full week in August, with this year’s dates being August 23-29.
Brake Job: Ford Fusion
In the short time the Fusion and its cousins have been on the road, there have not been any recalls or TSBs issued for the brake system. Customer and field reports are positive and there are very few reports for brake noise.