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EDC: Mechanic Edition

EDC, or “everyday carry” has become a popular topic of conversation. At first I thought people’s interest in this was a zeitgeist, but I think it’s got more staying power than I originally surmised. I used to (and still) roll my eyes when someone posts a beautiful...

The Most Neglected Part of the Cooling System

Cooling system jobs are, by and large, gravy repairs. Sure, we get the occasional hard-to-bleed system or the heater core that’s buried. But for the most part, the work is straightforward plumbing. And selling the stuff is easy! Even the most price-conscious customer...

When Selling a Job, Get It In Writing (Not an Emoji)

This one’s for anyone who interacts with customers directly: service writers, small shop owners, and even techs who do some moonlighting or side work. Be careful when using text abbreviations, slang, or emojis with your customer, and that goes double when a customer...

The Stories Spark Plugs Have to Tell (VIDEO)

Description In the days of carbureted engines, mechanics would always take a moment to examine the spark plugs they were replacing as part of a routine tune-up. The plugs often provided valuable information as to how well the engine was performing and whether there...

Service Managers: Buy Brake Fluid by the Pint

If you’re in charge of ordering the supplies for your shop, volume discounts are great when they come along. Sniff them out where you can. But brake fluid is different! Buy it in bulk, but buy it in the smallest containers you can get away with. The reason? Brake...

Six Ways to Best Protect Yourself from Keyless Car Theft (For Now)

In 2023, a record number of vehicles were stolen in the United States; 1,020,729 vehicles to be exact. While that number has declined over the past couple of years (850,708 in 2024 and 659,880 in 2025), car thieves haven’t given up. In fact, they’re finding more...

Don’t Forget to Season the Automobiles, Mechanics!

I guess after you watch the following video, you won’t need much commentary. I thought this was common knowledge, but as I’ll explain in a moment, I may be wrong.I thought it necessary because a good friend at an independent repair facility recently bemoaned the fact...

Coolant Service – ASE Practice Question (VIDEO)

Description Technician A and Technician B are discussing proper cooling system maintenance. Technician A says that time and mileage should be considered but are not the only factors to consider when recommending a cooling system service to a customer. Technician B...

Time-Saving Tip for Bleeding Stubborn Brakes (VIDEO)

Time-Saving Tip for Bleeding Stubborn Brakes (VIDEO)

by | May 27, 2025

Time-Saving Tip for Bleeding Stubborn Brakes (VIDEO) Description Some brake jobs can turn into headaches when small air bubbles get trapped within the caliper itself. To resolve the problem, you could pump the brakes over and over, or you could try this handy...
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...