Brake & Front End

MAY 9, 2025

Its spring! That means warmer weather, baseball is in full swing, and thats right spring tire changeover season is here! Just as MLB teams tightened up their fundamentals during Spring Training, this time of year is when shops should sharpen their processes. The season brings with it a busy season and spring tire changeover which means more chances for TPMS service at your shop.

IT 100

IT 100

Brake & Front End

MAY 10, 2025

In honor of National Signing Day on May 6, NAPA and SkillsUSA hosted a celebration at Truist Park in Atlanta for young technicians. They recognized four standout Georgia students launching careers in the automotive technician trade. The organizations say this was an effort to address the technician skills gap and the national technician shortage. Each student signed a commitment to join the trades during an official ceremony.

Apprenticeship 130

Apprenticeship Automotive Technician Education Automotive 130

Brake & Front End

MAY 8, 2025

Au tel released alignment and ADAS calibration software updates for many 2025 vehicle models. These include General Motors, Honda, Dodge, Jeep, Subaru, Toyota and Hyundai. The Autel software updates became available for download on April 10. Autel said the IA900WA aligner system and MaxiSYS Ultra ADAS tablet provide accurate alignments and workflow efficiency.

Software 100

Software Vehicle 100

Brake & Front End

MAY 7, 2025

In this episode of DriveTime, Jason Rainey, VP of Auto Care, NAPA Auto Parts, discusses the recent NAPA NOW event and the NAPA Auto Care Center program. He also explains what it takes to become a NAPA Gold-Certified shop. Rainey described the NAPA NOW event as an educational experience. So, the thing that I really have liked about this event is its truly something you just have to experience.

Apprenticeship 100

Apprenticeship Education IT 100

Brake & Front End

MAY 6, 2025

As technicians, we have to learn every new technology that emerges at a breakneck speed. New fuel delivery systemgo figure it out. New adaptive safety systemlearn it. And by the way, lets go ahead and change the propulsion system on the cars now, too. In an effort to go green and cut down on the usage of gasoline engines, the car industry has flipped independent repair shops, and now, an EV technician training program is more important than ever.

ASE 100

ASE Vehicle Electricity Engineering 100

Brake & Front End

MAY 5, 2025

Here in the BendPak Garage Studio at Babcox Media, weve talked a lot about EVsfrom maintenance to repairs to understanding EV components. However, when it comes to EV brake system service , many of the same repair procedures from internal combustion vehicles (ICE) still apply. Youve already handled most of these jobs before. Consider EV and ICE brake systemsthey share more similarities than you might expect.

Hydraulics 100

Hydraulics Media Vehicle Mechanic 100

Brake & Front End

MAY 5, 2025

Akebono Brake Corporation has announced the release of its latest line of Ultra-Premium Disc Brake Pads. This expansion includes new part numbers across the ProACT, EURO, and Severe Duty product lines, offering enhanced performance, durability, and compatibility for a wide range of vehicles. The new ProACT part numbers (ACT1934, ACT2170, ACT2200, ACT2391) cater to popular models from Mazda, Subaru, Nissan, Infiniti, and Mitsubishi, while the EURO series (EUR1426, EUR1426A, EUR1633, EUR1633A, EUR

Management 100

Management Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

MAY 1, 2025

Frenkit, a leading European brake hardware supplier, is building on its decades of experience in the industry and expanding coverage for the North American aftermarket. Frenkit now offers North American customers nearly 4,500 different brake hardware kits, covering 95% of US aftermarket sales. Frenkit is the European market leader in brake hardware, with customers in over 70 countries, including OEMs, top aftermarket distributors and caliper remanufacturers.

Utilities 100

Utilities Manufacturing Engineering IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 30, 2025

Diagnosing fuel injector issues requires understanding spray patterns, fuel trims, and heat soak effects. Learn how clogged injectors impact performance and why replacing them with bproauto injectors can restore efficiency. This video is sponsored by bproauto. The post Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Injector appeared first on Brake & Front End.

100

100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 30, 2025

In this episode of DriveTime , Randy Breaux, Group President, GPC North America , discusses the four key tenets necessary for business success and high-performance team building. They are vision, strategy, structure and culture. With regard to our vision, we created a new vision and that was to be the trusted provider of automotive parts and solutions.

Automotive 100

Automotive Management IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 29, 2025

In this episode of DriveTime, Russ Stebbins, VP and GM, North American Aftermarket at PHINIA, talks about the companys vision to lead the transformation toward a sustainable, carbon-free future in the automotive aftermarket. The company has historically focused on internal combustion engine (ICE) solutions. It is now actively advancing new initiatives to support the industrys shift toward sustainability, Stebbins explained.

Education 100

Education Engineering Automotive IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 29, 2025

Think ADAS is just about cameras and sensors? Educate your customers on the critical role shocks, struts, and springs play in keeping advanced safety systems like ADAS working properly. When these components are worn, critical systems like lane assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic braking may not function as intended potentially putting your customers at risk.

Education 100

Education IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 29, 2025

In this episode of DriveTime, as the VISION conference kicked off in Chicago, Bill Long, president and CEO of MEMA , The Vehicle Suppliers Association, and Paul McCarthy, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers , addressed supplier sentiment about the current state of the aftermarket, describing it as a mix of urgency and cautious optimism. Industry leaders agree theres never been a more critical time for suppliers to come together, given the wide range of challenges: tariffs, shifting sourcing

Automotive 100

Automotive Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 24, 2025

If youre of a certain age and, as a shop owner, you probably know what I mean youre constantly amazed by how much longer cars and trucks last than they used to. When we were kids, if your dad got four or five years before his car rusted out, it was kind of a big deal. Today, vehicles are lasting longer than ever. Bodies and engines are more reliable and durable and the average age of a car on the road is over 12 years!

Trucking 100

Trucking Engineering Car Vehicle 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 24, 2025

Kevin Linger of Babcox Media examines several approaches for having effective discussions about ADAS with the different types of customers that come into the shop. Its sometimes easy to overlook that ADAS was created for the benefit of real-life vehicle owners. The more shop owners and technicians talk to and educate their customers about the necessity of properly maintaining these safety systems, the better for everyone.

Education 100

Education Media Engineering Vehicle 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 28, 2025

Make some time to think about what you are doing when repairing advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) electronics on a vehicle. A vehicle that was not calibrated at all or calibrated incorrectly creates the same hazards not only to the driver of the vehicle you repaired, but also to other drivers and families on the road. I hope this is a sobering thought to all who are reading this.

Electronics 130

Electronics Vehicle Manufacturing Collision Repair 130

Brake & Front End

APRIL 24, 2025

Wheel bearings may look the same, but material quality, heat treatment, and grease formulation can mean the difference between failure and long-term performance. This video explains how bproauto hub units are tested to meet OE durability, fatigue, and sensor standardshelping shops improve reliability and customer satisfaction. This video is sponsored by bproauto.

100

100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 24, 2025

Fuel injectors can clog over time due to heat soak, causing varnish and carbon buildup that affects spray patterns and performance. Direct fuel injectors are especially prone to carbon deposits, while injectors in the middle cylinders of multi-cylinder engines experience the highest heat exposure. Short trips can accelerate the issue as detergents in gasoline may not be enough to prevent buildup.

Engineering 100

Engineering 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 24, 2025

Many shops and technicians can come up with multiple reasons why they dont want to perform ADAS calibrations or invest in the equipment. But, chances are they dont understand what happens during an ADAS calibration. The most challenging concept to embrace is that most ADAS cameras and radar sensors do not have moving parts inside. Cameras are set at the factory for focus and field of view.

Software 130

Software Vehicle Mechanic Manufacturing 130

Brake & Front End

APRIL 23, 2025

The automotive world continues to evolve and rules concerning emissions and fuel economy are driving manufacturers to develop new or revise existing technologies to improve fuel economy and improve engine performance. One of the key developments of these adaptations has been the increased use of turbochargers. Many people remember thatturbochargers have been around a while, though in the past, the technology was unreliable at best, typically because of overheating.

Engineering 100

Engineering Mechanic Manufacturing Education 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 23, 2025

Regardless of nameplate, your customers may be driving something they or you dont even understand. New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), a type of vehicle which includes Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and hybrids, rely on a thermal management system that is critical for the performance, safety, and longevity of these vehicles. Three key components of the thermal management system – management hoses, electric water pumps, and electric coolant valves – all work together to regulate the tempe

Management 100

Management Vehicle Electricity Electronics 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 22, 2025

In the search for greener alternatives to fossil fuel-powered vehicles, two technologies have emerged as leaders: electric vs hydrogen vehicles. Both reduce emissions and cut reliance on non-renewable resources, but they achieve these goals in different ways. Drivers continue to choose EVs more frequently in recent years. But how do these nearly silent, emission-free vehicles work?

Vehicle 100

Vehicle Electricity Oil Change Electric Vehicles 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 22, 2025

Choosing the right brake fluid isnt as simple as checking the boiling point. In todays vehicles, especially those equipped with ABS, ESC, and ADAS, viscosity has become just as importantif not more so. This episode explains how brake fluid viscosity affects system response times, stopping distance, and overall braking performance. In this episode of Inside the Brands, we take a closer look at Pentosin Super DOT 4, DOT 4 LV, and DOT 5.1 to explain what sets them apart and when each should be used

Automotive 100

Automotive Vehicle 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 22, 2025

In this episode of DriveTime , Brad Beckham, CEO of OReilly Auto Parts , discusses how he got into the business at 17 years old, sweeping floors and putting up stock in an OReilly Auto Parts store in Oklahoma. It was 1996 and, at that time, OReilly had less than 200 stores. Over time working in that store, he became a parts specialist and still remembers the 16 feet of paper catalog racks on the front counter.

Management 100

Management Customer Service IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 21, 2025

The interactive and easy-to-use digital edition of ShopOwner s April issue, featuring articles from Brake & Front End, is available now. Click Here to read the April issue In addition to management topics and opinion pieces, you’ll learn how to think like a machine when it comes to ADAS – at least, how to understand what the vehicle’s “senses” are absorbing about hazards and how to make them more accurate; pro tips to make your car care event more customer frien

Technical 100

Technical Management Vehicle Car 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 21, 2025

Timing is EVERYTHING for engine performance! This video dives into the world of timing chains and belts, explaining the key differences, common issues, and why proper maintenance is crucial. We’ll cover: Chain vs. Belt: Materials, design, and lifespan. Warning Signs: How to spot potential problems before they lead to costly engine damage. SKF Timing Chain Systems: Learn about SKF’s premium timing chain systems, designed for quality, reliability, and easy installation.

Engineering 100

Engineering 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 21, 2025

Are all hub bearings the same? Think again! This video breaks down the key differences between premium and value-grade hub bearings, focusing on service life, speed sensors, and NVH (noise, vibration, harshness). Youll also learn about the SKF X-Tracker series, offering car-like handling for trucks and SUVs with its innovative design. Learn how a stiffer hub improves steering, reduces brake wear, and enhances overall performance.

Trucking 100

Trucking Car IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 21, 2025

As a service advisor, you understand the importance of providing customers with innovative solutions that enhance their driving experience. One often-overlooked opportunity lies in cabin air filter replacements. This maintenance task that can significantly help to enhance Cabin Air Filter Efficiency. Nearly every vehicle built since the early 2000s features a cabin air filter as part of its HVAC system.

Service Advisor 100

Service Advisor Education Vehicle Electricity 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 17, 2025

PRT announced the latest additions of new aftermarket products to its portfolio of complete strut assemblies and shock absorbers. PRT said the 18 products represent more than 10 million vehicles in new coverage. The company added several significant models to its portfolio. These include the Toyota Yaris, Ford Escape and Volkswagen Touareg. PRT also introduced products for new applications like the 2023 Hyundai Kona.

Trucking 100

Trucking Vehicle Car IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 11, 2025

Taking Automotive Intelligence to the Next Level The MaxiSYS Ultra S2 advanced diagnostic tablet is the next generation of the highly successful Ultra advanced diagnostic tablet featuring improved hardware and comprehensive OE-level diagnostic capabilities for U.S., Asian, and European automaker lines. Diagnostics innovation is at the heart of every Autel product, and the Ultra S2 is the realization of the brand’s commitment to giving its user technicians the most powerful yet intuitive di

Software 189

Software Vehicle Insurance Electricity 189

Brake & Front End

APRIL 11, 2025

Its easy to blame poor battery life on parts quality, but in reality, modern battery longevity is often tied to proper BMS (Battery Management System) function. While the physical construction of batteries hasnt changed much, the way theyre charged has. Todays BMS monitors temperature, current, and internal resistance to regulate charging and avoid overcharging.

Management 100

Management IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 11, 2025

AIRCAT’s latest HVLP gravity feed spray guns the 6900 and 6905 are built for professionals who demand precision and efficiency. Designed with optimized atomization, a smooth trigger pull, and adjustable spray controls, these guns deliver outstanding transfer efficiency while reducing material waste and air pollution. Ideal for base coats, clear coats, and primers, both models include stainless steel needles, brass caps, and PPS compatibility.

Utilities 100

Utilities 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 11, 2025

In this episode of Tomorrow’s Technician’s Partnership Pathways Podcast, powered by NAPA, host Doug Kaufman speaks with Ritchie Wimmer, a multifaceted shop owner and automotive instructor at Morro Bay High School in California. In addition to sharing his amazing life-altering story, Ritchie shares his insights on the challenges of being a successful shop owner today and how mentorships and apprenticeship programs can bridge the gap between generations in the automotive industry.

Apprenticeship 100

Apprenticeship ASE Oil Change Customer Service 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 11, 2025

Kevin Linger of Babcox Media discusses how ADAS calibrations are becoming less of a choice and more of a necessity in the collision repair industry. Step one is gathering accurate information and avoiding misconceptions. With the help of Hunters Ultimate ADAS, Linger discusses a number of important ADAS topics such as: determining adequate shop space compensating for non-level floors appropriate lighting and wall color This video is the first in a series of practical, shop-focused videos featuri

Collision Repair 113

Collision Repair Media Engineering 113

Brake & Front End

APRIL 10, 2025

Wiper blade performance can vary depending on climate, driving conditions, and vehicle use. This article explains how to properly inspect wiper blades, what signs to look forsuch as streaking, noise, or poor contactand how degraded wipers can impact ADAS systems that rely on forward-facing cameras. It also outlines how to communicate the importance of timely wiper replacement to customers in a way that builds trust and enhances safety.

Vehicle 100

Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 10, 2025

Disc brake issues like uneven pad wear, pulling while braking, or rapid pad wear are common in older systems. These symptoms can result from either a sticking caliper or a restricted brake hoseboth of which can be affected by age and contaminated brake fluid. This article explains how to properly diagnose the root cause by relieving hydraulic pressure and observing how the caliper responds.

IT 100

IT Hydraulics 100

Brake & Front End

APRIL 10, 2025

When diagnosing braking issues like uneven pad wear or pulling, the caliper is often a key component to inspect. A visual check alone may not be enoughthorough disassembly is often required. This article outlines the proper steps for inspecting caliper guide pins, piston movement, seals, and brackets. It also emphasizes how worn components can lead to sticking calipers or premature pad wear, and why choosing a replacement caliper with a bracket may be necessary for a complete fix.

IT 100

IT 100