They look the same, but serve different roles. Here are the very specific scenarios where the lesser-known parallel connector shines.
Parallel connectors vs. butt connectors
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HOT OFF THE PRESS
PSA: Check that cabin air filter
The cabin air filter is arguably the most overlooked filter on the car.
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.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
New techs: hang in there. An old transmission pan mystery exemplifies the difficulties of being a mechanic
What do you do when a part isn’t in an IPD/fiche?
It’s totally fine to run your fuel tank down to empty
Stop telling your customers otherwise—modern fuel systems don’t care.
LOF PSA: Don’t forget the lube job
Engine oil is a lubricant, but that’s not what the task’s title is referencing.
Best of Shop Press 2022
Our favorite and most popular articles and videos from the first year of ShopPress.com.
What to check when you’re checking out a car (VIDEO)
How do you suss out problems on a car that’s come to you for service?
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.
LT-series vs. P-series tires
The truck and SUV have never been more prolific than they are today. Learn when to sell each type of these tires.
December Automotive Horoscopes
We read the astrological signs and predicted your automotive future.
An open letter to automotive customers about Christmas gifts (and tipping)
You don’t need to do anything—but if you do, there are only a few things worth doing.
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever seen in a vehicle?
Every tech has a story. What’s yours?
The bumpy story of vinyl record players in cars
Despite being obviously ill-suited for use in vehicles, I still want to find a workable solution for installing a record player in my car.
VIDEOS
A cheap bore scope is your best friend for prepurchase inspections
Saving time and labor while giving PPI customers a clear picture.
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