Before you toss those zip tie scraps in the trash, consider saving them for plastic repair jobs. In many cases, the plastic used in zip ties will bond with common automotive plastics with the help of a soldering iron.

Brake fluid can wear out just like any other fluid.
The Rust Belt and the Salt Belt may sound similar, and you might even hear them used interchangeably, but they are distinct names that any automotive professional or enthusiast should know. Take a few seconds to get the real story on these terms.
Auto repair pros probably know the expression “buy once, cry once,” and for some tools, techs should buy the best they can afford.
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Step up your repair game with sensible choices.
A Master Technician and nationally known trainer joins the Shop Press family. Say hello to Pete Meier!
Female metric square drive plugs were new to me. They might be to you, too.
Each line item confirms it—cheating doesn’t pay.
Ford made a V-8 engine affordable to the mass market consumer for the first time.
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.
Auto care news and advice you can use.
It’s been asked of every new mechanic for more than a century. Does it matter in 2025?
Using a lubricant when installing spark plugs was once common practice, but today, you might want to think twice before adding anything to your spark plug threads.
Company makes $44 million investment to expand plant.
The habits you form first can be the hardest ones to break.
The Proving Grounds crew takes on another round of The Mystery Box Challenge with new parts and a few new faces.
In this challenge, techs and DIYers get as close as possible to a target final pressure to see who’s got the best skills and strategies at the tire machine.
A few things to bear in mind considering the increased wear on tires.
Which of the following is LEAST LIKELY to require a separate gasket for installation?