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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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Use the Little Radiator—and Have Customers Do the Same

Disclaimer: If a car is overheating and it is possible to safely exit the road and stop the car, that should always be the first course of action to avoid the risk of fire. The solution described in this article should only be used where that is not possible. If a car...

PSA: The Right (and Wrong) Ways to Handle Iridium Spark Plugs

For the vast majority of vehicles on the road, swapping out spark plugs is gravy work. Yoink the old plugs, make sure the replacements meet the necessary gap spec, install the new plugs, and button up the ignition system. You’re in and out of there in no time, right?...

Tool Review: Permatex 25240 Thread Locker

Disclaimer: This chemical was purchased at full retail price at the expense of the author, with no compensation from the retailer or manufacturer to write about the item.Be honest: do you always check the manual for the correct grade of factory-recommended sealant on...

Try Doing It the Wrong Way

Today’s article is composed of two quick tips that are distinct and different, but interrelated because they’re used on the same items: the humble fasteners we remove and install hundreds of times daily. These tips are both geared to newer techs since we all must find...

Modern Power Window Switches: Smarter than You’d Think

When was the last time you rolled down the power windows in an older car or truck? I’m talking at least pre-2000. The older, the better. As a passenger, you’ll find that every door has a mix of buttons, switches, locks, and handles to mess around with, plus maybe a...

It’s All About the Process

Man, it feels like just yesterday you graduated with that Associate’s in Automotive Tech, but nope, it's been three months already, and you've landed a solid job at ABC Auto Repair back in your hometown. The boss has been taking it easy on you, dishing out a bunch of...

Dealing with “System Lean” DTCs

The Engine Control Module (ECM) is always keeping an eye on the amount of fuel it is adding to the cylinders, and it'll throw a code when it figures it can't keep the mixture right where it needs to be. You might see codes like "system rich" or "system lean," and they...

Mastering the Numbers

Mastering the Numbers

by | May 15, 2025

Running an auto repair shop is about more than just fixing cars. While providing top-notch service is essential, managing a truly successful business also depends on understanding and acting on the financial barometers of the operation. One of the most important of...
Don’t Overlook This Step When Servicing Brakes (VIDEO)

Don’t Overlook This Step When Servicing Brakes (VIDEO)

by | May 13, 2025

Don’t Overlook This Step When Servicing Brakes (VIDEO) Description A brake service job isn’t complete unless the reservoir cap’s diaphragm has been pushed back into place. This simple step is easy to forget, but it helps to reduce brake fluid contamination and ensure...