If you’re still using torque sticks and impact power to install lug nuts and lug bolts, it’s time to reconsider.
Why Wheel Fastener Torque Matters More Than You Think (VIDEO)
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HOT OFF THE PRESS
Should You Charge More When Dealing with Tire Sealant? (VIDEO)
Learn why it’s not a bad idea to charge a little more for the hassle.
An Ode to “Car Talk”
A radio show that, hopefully, will live on for years to come.
Testing Battery State of Charge – ASE Practice Question (VIDEO)
Technicians discuss battery testing, one says open circuit voltage of less than 10.5 volts indicates a bad battery, while the other says that a reading of 12.5 volts indicates an 80% state of charge. Who is correct?
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SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Mastering the Numbers – Part 2
Using your shop’s Cost of Doing Business (CODB) as a baseline for labor rates.
Recovering A/C Refrigerant-ASE Practice Question (VIDEO)
Technician A is preparing to recover the refrigerant from a customer’s vehicle. What are the steps he should take when performing this service?
The Folded Paper Era and Beyond: Giorgetto Giugiaro’s Iconic Design Journey
Giorgetto Giugiaro influenced everything from groundbreaking supercars to beloved city vehicles.
Is It Ever Safe to Reuse Torque-to-Yield (TTY) Fasteners? (VIDEO)
Pete Meier explains why these single-use bolts should always be replaced for safety and proper function.
Do You Survey Your Customers, and How?
Customer satisfaction surveys should be clear, concise, and targeted.
Want to contribute an article to Shop Press?
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.
How Often Should You Really Flush Coolant? (VIDEO)
How do you know when it’s time to flush coolant? Technicians may have different views on the subject, but Dorman Training Center instructor Pete Meier explains how using a test strip at every service is a surefire way to get an accurate picture of the coolant’s health.
Do I Need a Tune-up?
When a customer rolls into your shop and asks for a “tune-up,” what’s your first reaction?
Should You Lubricate Spark Plugs Before Installing Them? (VIDEO)
Do you lubricate the threads on spark plugs before installing them? Should you? Pete Meier explains the finer points of spark plug lube application for best results and OE service procedure compliance.
PSA: Be Safe With Brake Cleaner
Brake cleaner is loved by techs (for good reason), but make sure you’re taking safety precautions.
Compression Testing | ASE Practice Questions (VIDEO)
All four cylinders are below specification by about the same amount. After performing a wet compression test, values remained unchanged. What could cause this condition?
VIDEOS
Do You Survey Your Customers, and How?
Customer satisfaction surveys should be clear, concise, and targeted.
Interpreting Compression Tests–ASE Practice Questions (VIDEO)
Technician A completed a compression test, noting high readings suggest an exhaust restriction, while Technician B says the test checks volumetric efficiency.
Do I Need a Tune-up?
When a customer rolls into your shop and asks for a “tune-up,” what’s your first reaction?