In: Being able to re-flash and calibrate computer modules.

Out: Longer than normal time downloading a file because someone is watching Netflix in the front office. 

In: Calling yourself a mechanic.

Out: Everyone calling himself or herself a technician. 

In: Not leaving the bay by using your smartphone or tablet to look something up. 

Out: Realizing that you need your “cheater” glasses to read it.

In: ABS, ESC and traction control preventing major accidents.

Out: ABS and traction control preventing you from doing a wicked burnout or donut.

In: Being able to rebuild a caliper.

Out: Scratching the bore with a screwdriver trying to install the piston seal.

In: Buying Google AdWord for mobile to attract new customers.

Out: Dealing with a Facebook page for your shop.

In: Getting control of your Yelp profile.

Out: Realizing all the reviews are from your best buddy and are poorly written.

In: Doing your own landscaping to improve the look of your shop. 

Out: Realizing that compressed air does not make a good gardening tool way too late.

In: Wearing safety glasses.

Out: Trying to find a pair that does not look too dorky.

In: Buying a grill for the shop so your staff can enjoy a good burger or hot dog for lunch.

Out: Having to clean it. 

In: Selling scrap metal for money.

Out: Scary scrap collectors scaring away your customers.

In: Having the right TPMS service kit in stock.

Out: Breaking a stem because it is corroded.

In: Talking to a counterman that understands what other parts might need to be replaced.

Out: Customers bring in parts they bought on the Internet.

 

In: Using Motorist Assurance Program (MAP) (www.motorist.org) practices and standards for communicating with the customer.

Out: Trying to sell a customer muffler bearings.

In: Using a waste oil burner to keep your shop warm in the winter.

Out: Running out of waste oil on the coldest day of the year.

In: Customers who take care of their vehicles.

Out: People who sell their car because they are afraid in might break down on them.

Out: OEMs that feed this trend to increase sales.

In: Finding a good fleet customer. 

Out: Used car dealers who want the least work done for the lowest price.

In: Tool truck drivers that are consistent.

Out: Tool truck drivers who drink your coffee and are never about to warrantee tools. 

In: Training.

Out: Sending cars to the dealer.

If you have your own, please send them to me at [email protected].