PTFE tape is essential for threaded connections that need a good seal.
HOT OFF THE PRESS
Why sidewall styling is both worthless and wonderful for drivers and tire shops
The appearance of off-road prowess while maintaining on-road comfort is what motorists want. Tire salesmen, take advantage.
Surprise: having snacks and phone chargers in your repair shop’s waiting room makes customers happier
A recent J.D. Power study found that a few simple amenities in your service center’s lobby go a long way toward making your customers want to come back, but few businesses have them.
Exhaust tips: three ways to fine-tune your method
Exhaust work is straightforward and (I think) easy to understand. Here are some pointers for service techs to avoid comebacks when hanging pipe.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Diagnostics case study: don’t overcomplicate things
One basic vehicle checkover has several lessons to teach.
The aggressive question you can ask that instantly calms a customer down
This seemingly-impolite question can defuse tense situations in the shop or auto parts store.
The most entertaining social media accounts to follow for car enthusiasts in 2023
23 of the most informative, interesting, and funny car-related accounts on the socials
Catalytic converters are the coolest car parts that get no respect
Despite being fascinating, breakthrough innovations, they were hated when first introduced, and are now routinely stolen for scrap.
Car designer Brooks Stevens: the man behind the first Jeep Wagoneer, planned obsolescence, an iconic Harley-Davidson, and more
His lofty intentions were misconstrued into a shopworn excuse for building crummy cars
ABOUT 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. With interesting stories from around the world, features on creative people and solutions, and all kinds of other stuff that’ll make you use your mind and your hands.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Top 5 mechanical oddities on RHD vehicles, and how to deal with them if one rolls into your shop
Working on a right-hand drive vehicle requires deviating slightly from a mechanic’s routine.
Is perseverance in the service bay a feature or a bug?
The flat-rate system doesn’t reward tenacity.
May Automotive Horoscopes
We read the astrological signs and predicted your automotive future.
Right to Repair gains momentum in Maine
75,000 state residents agree that independent repair shops should have ready access to real-time vehicle data.
Tool review: ICON 3/8” ratchet
I hate buying ratchets. Here’s what I think of my newest one, an ICON 56193.
VIDEOS
Tired of dead 9V batteries? Convert to rechargeables! (VIDEO)
If you have tools that use 9 volt batteries, it’s cheap and easy to convert them to rechargeable batteries. Watch to learn how it’s done!
Test fuses without removal! (VIDEO)
How to test for blown fuses in a car or truck | Fast and easy method
Don’t let the grind of fixing cars wear down your love for ‘em
A local automotive event is the cure for whatever car doldrums you’re in.