Peter Meier discusses the importance of testing coolant and how mechanics can use simple strip testers to keep cooling systems safe.
The importance of testing engine coolant (VIDEO)
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HOT OFF THE PRESS
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.
The story of the very first reverse gear in an American car
Reverse is an innovation that’s easy to take for granted—but it was a revolutionary addition to the automobile.
How to get a little more (temporary) performance out of your air impact gun
“Rebuild in a can” is not the right way to fix the tool, but it will get you by until you can repair it correctly.
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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.
“Can you drive a stick?”
It’s been asked of every new mechanic for more than a century. Does it matter in 2025?
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.
How to test and fix a car USB charger (VIDEO)
USB charging problems? Dorman’s experts explore specialized tools and provide handy tips for these increasingly common repairs.
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Are you a wrench and a writer? A counterperson and a communicator? A service writer and a scribe? Get paid to share your experience and expertise with thousands of Shop Press readers.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Rules of the torque wrench, explained
A helpful video investigation of proper (and improper) torque wrench techniques and habits.
Junkyard therapy. It’s my kind of therapy.
When I feel like dropping off the grid for a couple hours of “me” time, I head out for a walk in the park—in the junkyard.
How to find a good auto repair shop, according to actual repair professionals (VIDEO)
There’s lot of advice out there about how to choose a reliable mechanic. We asked mechanics what they would advise.
The worst cars are the best classrooms
They don’t build ‘em like they used to, and that’s a shame.
What are the sockets and wrenches you can do without?
There are definitely useless sizes. Or are there?
VIDEOS
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.
Thread repair for mechanics: an incomplete guide to essential products and procedures
Proper tooling and techniques are critical to repairing threads—and if you’re a mechanic, neither are marketed well to you.
The one part of the car you’ll never install for a customer
DIFM customers just won’t purchase this common underhood part.