Shop Press

Shop Press is the news and idea hub for everything related to working on cars and trucks, focusing on repair, technology, and wrenching lifestyle.

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A comprehensive primer on the automotive right to repair debate

I began my wrench-turning career back in the late ‘70s when cars still used carbureted engines with mechanical points ignition systems. I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of what once were primarily mechanical systems controlling major engine and vehicle functions...

What is the best type of air filter? (VIDEO)

Description Air filter elements come in a variety of shapes and designs, but which one is right for you? Nick and Greaser discuss the advantages and drawbacks of three air filter designs, including filtration effectiveness, airflow, serviceability, overall size, and...

The one part of the car you’ll never install for a customer

The title is a bit clickbait-y, but I won’t drag this out. Let me tell you about a part you’ll never get a repair customer to buy willingly: the hood strut.Photo: Mike Apice.How many times have you been working on something, and the hood comes down and clonks ya right...

Torches for courses: which heating tools should a mechanic own?

The oxyacetylene torch is the cornerstone of any shop’s torch selection, and for good reason. Oxyacetylene is the industry standard for heating and cutting with a flame. With some practice and a little know-how, this time-honored tool can handle virtually any torch...

Boomerang business cards: a quick sales tip

Boomerang business cards: a quick sales tip

My first job writing service was at a now-defunct Goodyear/Kelly-Springfield tire dealer. The way my commission was structured, I didn’t make very much money unless I sold a lot of tires. But when I sold a lot of tires, money came pouring in—my per-tire cut went up,...
Break down ROs into three boxes

Break down ROs into three boxes

“Every time I walk into this place, you guys clean me out for a few grand.” I’m sure you’ve heard some variant of that if you’ve written service. Part of the reason is that the value of preventative maintenance is just lost on some vehicle owners. (“Don’t try to...
Holistic healing works on cars, too

Holistic healing works on cars, too

Holistic seems to be a buzzword that’s (over)used in medicine. From a medical diagnosis perspective, that word may cause you to roll your eyes, but not a bad way to think about automotive diagnostics. If you work on a counter, approaching repair holistically helps...