Unless you’re a professional mechanic or a hardcore DIYer, I suggest you focus on building memories instead of a car.
So you want to restore a classic or build a kit car? Think twice.
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HOT OFF THE PRESS
Vehicle weights are increasing. Can your lifts handle it?
As new cars and trucks, especially EVs, get heavier than ever, it’s important to check your lift’s rating and condition.
Diagnostics case study: don’t overcomplicate things
One basic vehicle checkover has several lessons to teach.
Do you mind working on customer vehicles equipped with dash cams?
As dashboard cameras become more common, repair professionals should know how to deal with them.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
The most important fluid in the car and how to test it.
Brake fluid can wear out just like any other fluid.
TECHNICIAN CHALLENGE: Can you identify these dash lights? (VIDEO)
Think you know your dash lights? Shop Press contributors Keith, Miriam, Chris, and Greaser try their best to identify all kinds of lights, symbols, and indicators.
I’ll gladly pay an independent shop more for a rush repair, and I’m not alone
Their emergency shouldn’t be yours unless they pay a premium to fix it.
Dash warning lights: feature or bug?
At what point does an icon completely fail to provide critical information to a motorist?
PSA: Check that cabin air filter
The cabin air filter is arguably the most overlooked filter on the car.
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.
A visit to Elite JDM (VIDEO)
A playlist of videos from a recent trip to a Dorman contributor’s personal shop.
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.
Four not-so-obvious ways grease can come in handy
Lubricant? More like lubri-can. A very cheap staple of most shops, I’ve learned to use it in a few unconventional ways.
Two A/C checks you don’t wanna skip
Failing to perform these two vital service steps could cost time and money—or worse.
VIDEOS
A comprehensive primer on the automotive right to repair debate
Your guide to understanding controversy and proposed legislation that directly affects how repair professionals earn a paycheck.
What is the best type of air filter? (VIDEO)
Air filter elements come in a variety of shapes and designs, but which one is right for you?
Maine voters approve ballot measure requiring automakers to share diagnostic system access
With 84% approval, it’s the latest electoral show of support for providing owners and independent garages with more ability to repair motor vehicles.