3M Launches Interactive Car Care Website for Consumers
The new 3M website features information on the proper use of more than 30 technologically advanced car care products and solutions from 3M, all featured in special sections based on their use.
News Update: Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper Surpasses 2,500 Shops
Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper announced the enrollment of their 2,501st certified service center. “Our WDs realize this segment of the business is essential to their prosperity. They have embraced our certified service center program to help us surpass the 2,500 mark,” said John Wick, vice president of sales and training. “The hard work
Mercedes: Deciphering Driveability Dilemmas
As the oldest surviving automotive manufacturer on the planet, Mercedes-Benz has developed a reputation for superior engineering and quality. Models with new features and mechanical developments have been consistently introduced for more than a century. For the automotive technician, this line of vehicles has been a source of never-ending education. Innovation after innovation has challenged
40-Year-Old Volvo
Starring at an auto show near you, it’s “The 40-Year-Old Volvo,” a tale of a 1966 1800 that just keeps running, and running, and running. . . By Debbie Briggs, Contributing Writer When Irvin Gordon bought his sporty red 1966 Volvo 1800, or P1800 as it’s known in Europe, on June 30, 1966, he had
Flashing Signals / Reprogramming PCMs
You don’t have to be Microsoft A+ certified to flash reprogram automotive PCMs, but the process requires a certain amount of know-how as well as special tools and access to the latest OEM software upgrades (which are not free!). What’s more, it’s not a risk-free endeavor. Certain precautions must be undertaken before you begin, and
A/C Update: Keeping the Black Death at Bay
Over time, moisture contamination in an A/C system will form corrosive acids that attack metal surfaces and break down the lubricating qualities of the compressor oil. The result is a dark-colored sludge called “Black Death” that can gum up the orifice tube or expansion valve and ruin the compressor. How does moisture get in the
Earn ‘Sizzling’ Rewards from Tenneco with Ride Control and Exhaust Sales
The summer is getting even hotter with the launch of Tenneco’s Expert Plus "Summer Sizzler!" promotions. Automotive service shops installing Tenneco’s ride control and exhaust brands, including Monroe shocks and struts, Walker exhaust and DynoMax performance exhaust, can earn fun premiums during May and June.
Computers: Why You Can’t Do Business Today Without Them
It’s hard to imagine any automotive repair shop doing business today without the benefit of multiple computers. Yet some shops continue to do business and fix cars the "old fashioned way" with no computers whatsoever. I can’t help but wonder how much longer some of these shops will stay in business.
BMW Tech Tip: Solving Steering Wheel ‘Twitch’
You may get a customer complaining of a very slight "twitch" that can be felt in the steering while holding the steering wheel lightly with one hand and giving the brakes a quick tap. The steering wheel will twitch slightly only once, with no disruption in the stability of the car, and no pull to either side. Before you dismiss the owners as "nit-picky whiners," you should know their complaints may have merit and BMW has offered a solution.
Raybestos Brand Brake Products Launches Spring Sizzle Promotion
The heat is being turned up for installers and counterpersons with the launch of Raybestos brand brake products Spring Sizzle Promotion. From May 1 through July 31, with the purchase of each Raybestos brand brake products promotional kit, installers will receive a Raybestos toolbox BBQ grill, a free goods certificate and a sweepstakes entry form.