Tech Tip: A Short Drive Saves Tee Time
Mr. Ellis called first thing this morning to ask why the “low tire” lamp was on in his 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid. He needed to get out to the golf course for an 8 a.m. tee time. I told him that as long as the tire wasn’t flat, to come over to the shop and I would check the tire pressure. I guessed that cold weather combined with low tire pressure may be causing the lamp to illuminate. A quick check showed that the left rear tire was 5 psi below specification. After adding some air, Mr. Ellis was on his way to the country club.
Waiting until Tire Pressure Warning Light Comes on Can Be Dangerous for Motorists
As 2008 model year vehicles hit the road, motorists will find they are equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) that illuminate an on-dash warning light when the pressure in one or more tires is low. However, AAA warns motorists that the TPMS should not replace monthly tire pressure checks.
Tech Tip: Selling Performance Modifications
The sport compact car market is hotter than ever. The market has moved beyond the simple bolt-ons such as wheels, tires, brake rotors and spoilers. It’s not unusual today to see sport compact engines producing upward of 400 horsepower on the street. With so much power under the hood, the challenge is getting the horsepower to the tires and maintaining reasonable traction and handling.
Tech Tip: Sorting Out Tire Pressure Monitoring System Myths
Myths are fine if you’re teaching mythology. However, they are a pain for the automotive aftermarket, especially when dealing with new components like tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). With every new technology, there are inherent learning, maintenance and problem-solving issues. Also, there are accompanying apprehensions and fears. Some concerns are valid; others would fall into the category of myths.
KTI to Display Headache-Curing, Time-Saving, Profit-Generating Tools at AAPEX 2007
K-Tool International (KTI), a manufacturer of tools for the automotive aftermarket and professional mechanic, will feature a variety of innovative hand tools and specialty equipment while displaying at the 2007 AAPEX show in Las Vegas from October 30-November 1.
Schrader Introduces AirAware Tire Pressure Monitoring System Service DVD
Schrader Bridgeport International, Inc. announces a new AirAware Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Service DVD. The DVD offers a general overview of TPMS and details the recommended service procedures for removing and reinstalling TPMS sensors.
Tire Tech Tip: Watch for Unusual Bolt Patterns
New rides are hitting the streets, so hold on tight while we try to decipher the latest OE changes that affect our lives – both in terms of profit and frustration. First up is the most controversial – the new Jeep Wrangler JK, which debuted late last year.
Selling Services: Marketing Nitrogen to Your Customers
What’s wrong with air? Like a slumbering giant, the passenger and light truck tire industry is slow to evolve and slower to accept new products and ways of thinking. Take the current buzzword going around: nitrogen. That inert gas has the industry and, as I found out, consumers, in an uproar about who and what
New Tools: What’s Old is New Again
There is an old saying that there is nothing new under the sun. A recent trend in the tool industry might lead you to think there is some truth to that statement. It seems that although a new tool gets introduced every few minutes — with suppliers bringing more and more new items to market
Standard Plus Club Recognized as Preferred Provider to Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper Customers
Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) announces its Standard Plus Club technical support program is recognized as a preferred provider to the service dealer customers of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance (Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper).