Brake & Front End

JULY 3, 2025

This is a maintenance alert for you guys out there who have to pull cars into the shop or charge the battery on some vehicles. If it’s a late model vehicle or it’s a vehicle that is a hybrid, pay attention to the service information when you’re performing a jump-start these vehicles. There are different procedures for the jump-start depending on the vehicle.

Vehicle 100

Vehicle Management Car IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 29, 2025

In the automotive repair business, service advisors are at the heart of building customer trust. Your recommendations matter. That’s why you need parts you can rely on—like Walker Products. Since 1946, Walker Products has proudly served the automotive industry. As a U.S.-based, family-owned company, they deliver premium engine management and fuel system components that meet or exceed OEM standards.

Service Advisor 100

Service Advisor Automotive Repair Automotive Manufacturing 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 30, 2025

Firing the “parts cannon” at an active ABS wheel speed sensor code often results in misdiagnosis and an unhappy customer. It may start with the wheel bearing hub unit or wheel speed sensor. If those parts do not resolve the problem, the technician may fire the parts cannon at the ABS hydraulic control module. Typically, the customer’s patience and wallet runs out before the car is fixed.

Electricity 147

Electricity Mechanic Hydraulics Vehicle 147

Brake & Front End

JULY 1, 2025

Why do some brake hoses have these two stripes that run perpendicular on the entire length of the hose? Are they racing stripes? No. Bar code? No. These stripes on a replacement brake hose mean two things. First, they indicate the replacement hose conforms to Department of Transportation requirements for replacement brake hose construction as outlined in FMVSS 106 and SAE J1401.

Hydraulics 100

Hydraulics IT Transportation 100

Brake & Front End

JULY 1, 2025

Kevin Linger of Babcox Media discusses three sequential — but entirely optional — levels of commitment that comprise approaching calibrations gradually, gaining experience and expertise over time like any other automotive service: from dynamic calibrations to static calibrations to the more advanced capabilities provided by Hunter’s Ultimate ADAS. It’s a common misconception that performing ADAS calibrations requires a massive investment right off the bat.

Automotive Services 100

Automotive Services Media Engineering Automotive 100

Brake & Front End

JULY 2, 2025

Julian Moreno of Omaha, Nebraska, earned the 2025 Mitchell 1 Automotive Technology Outstanding Student title. This automotive technology scholarship includes a $2,500 award and a paid trip to the 2025 NACAT conference in Detroit. “Mitchell 1 is proud to honor and congratulate Julian Moreno as the 2025 Mitchell 1 Automotive Technology Outstanding Student,” said Jen MacDonald, director of marketing for Mitchell 1.

Automotive 100

Automotive Collision Repair Auto Body Shop Education 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 28, 2025

Air filters are normal wear items that require regular checks and replacement. Their role is to trap dirt particles that can cause damage to engine cylinders, walls, pistons, and piston rings in fuel injected vehicles. The air filter also plays a role in keeping contaminants off the airflow sensor. The engine management system can compensate for a dirty air filter up to a point, but when the restriction becomes too great, engine performance and fuel economy begin to suffer.

Oil Change 100

Oil Change Engineering Education Management 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 27, 2025

Texa USA announced that all of its diagnostic packages are now shipping with the latest Navigator TXT Multihub 2 hardware. There is no increase in the package cost or the individual replacement hardware cost, Texa said. The update mainly focuses on an increase of vehicle access protocols, and there is an upgrade to the processor and bluetooth connectivity to increase diagnostic speed.

Vehicle 100

Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 26, 2025

In partnership with NAPA, ShopOwner, the Babcox Media brand serving professional independent automotive shop owners, is recognizing and celebrating the vital role of mentorship in the automotive service industry. The ShopOwner Mentorship Award – Sponsored by NAPA honors exceptional automotive shop owners, service advisors and technicians who are actively investing in the future of their profession by mentoring the next generation of automotive professionals.

Body Repair 130

Body Repair Automotive Auto Repair Automotive Services 130

Brake & Front End

JUNE 25, 2025

When it comes to a customer complaints to nail down a steering pull condition, there are two questions you should ask. 1) “Is it all the time?” If the problem is intermittent, it warrants some diagnostic time. The issue could be the brakes, power steering or other systems like ADAS. 2) “Does the pull increase or decrease with speed?” This prompt hopefully will give you an indication of the severity of the condition.

Vehicle 162

Vehicle IT Electricity Car 162

Brake & Front End

JUNE 25, 2025

The interactive and easy-to-use digital edition of ShopOwner’s June issue, featuring articles from ImportCar , is available now. Click Here to Read the June Issue In addition to management topics and opinion pieces from a wide variety of sources on an even wider variety of subjects, you’ll find technical articles covering five of the most commonly asked air ride suspension questions (and the answers!

Technical 100

Technical Management Engineering 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 24, 2025

Hunter Engineering announced that Subaru has approved Ultimate ADAS for its U.S. dealer and collision network. Subaru becomes the fifth OEM to approve the alignment and static calibration system, joining Honda, Acura, Nissan and Infiniti. Hunter says additional approvals are planned for 2025. Hunter Ultimate ADAS Details Ultimate ADAS combines alignment technology with a guided target placement system.

Engineering 100

Engineering Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 23, 2025

If you’re wondering why some serpentine belt and tensioner replacements require two technicians, it’s a combination of factors. The first is the length of the belt that’s routed around the alternator, AC compressor, water pump, and a myriad of other pulleys. The other obstacle is the packaging on most modern engines, which leaves very little room to route the belt and move the tensioner.

A Tech 100

A Tech Engineering IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 22, 2025

They know it’s there. They rely on it automatically without paying attention. But when it stops working correctly, there’s no more frustrating problem they need you to solve. Today we’re talking about how you can be a superhero to your customers by fixing their window regulator problems. First, let’s dive into what a window regulator is and how it functions within a vehicle.

Service Advisor 100

Service Advisor Preventative Maintenance Professional Services Electronics 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 20, 2025

Find the Fix Faster with Real-World Know-How By Ross Whiteley Every technician has come across that one repair that just doesn’t show up in the factory information. You’ve checked the OEM service data, run the diagnostics, and still, something doesn’t add up. Your next move? Turn to SureTrack® – an exclusive, peer-driven resource built right into ProDemand® repair information from Mitchell 1.

Software 189

Software Troubleshooting Auto Repair Management 189

Brake & Front End

JUNE 21, 2025

PRT has announced 35 new products, including complete strut assemblies, shock absorbers, and air springs that the company says represent more than 12 million vehicles in new coverage. Vehicles covered include: BMW 5 Series Audi Quattro Ford Mustang Porsche Cayenne Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2023 Honda Ridgeline Ford Transit 350 “We are committed to both the OE and aftermarket sectors, driving innovation through targeted R&D initiatives.

Vehicle 100

Vehicle 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 19, 2025

Diagnosing a wheel bearing noise isn’t always straightforward. While a cyclic chirping, growling, or squealing noise is a common symptom, it doesn’t always mean the bearing is at fault. In this video, we walk through how to properly check for bearing play and interpret noise, while also covering other potential causes like brake issues, tire defects or worn suspension components.

IT 100

IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 20, 2025

Like any vehicle, EVs are vulnerable to natural disasters like flooding. However, flooded electric vehicle safety presents unique challenges that differ from gas-powered cars. Technicians must understand these risks to prevent accidents and ensure safe handling. Why Flooding Poses Unique Dangers for EVs One of the most serious risks is electrical shorts.

Electric Vehicles 100

Electric Vehicles Electricity Vehicle Manufacturing 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 17, 2025

Hunter Engineering has released the latest update coverage for its alignment, ADAS and inspection equipment. The new WinAlign update launched on May 21 and the company says it will be the final update of 2025. It includes brand-new records as well as updated existing records to reflect OEM changes to current vehicles. WinAlign Update Includes 2025 Toyota and Ram Models Hunter added 708 new records in this release.

Vehicle 100

Vehicle Software Engineering IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 18, 2025

DRiV, the aftermarket business unit of Tenneco, launched a line of remanufactured starters and alternators, plus a line of air conditioning parts, both under the Walker brand. The company said that the new products will become available in June. Behind Walker’s Product Standards DRiV said Walker engineers design and back the Walker product ranges to meet strict OE standards.

Air Conditioning 100

Air Conditioning Engineering Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 14, 2025

Brake rotors are essential to safe and effective braking, but over time, heat, wear and corrosion can compromise performance. When rotors fall below minimum thickness or develop cracks, they must be replaced. bproauto says its brake rotors are built to meet or exceed SAE standards, offering consistent performance and durability. With a non-directional finish for quick pad burnishing, painted edges for corrosion protection, and precise balancing for reduced vibration, bproauto says its rotors del

IT 100

IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 15, 2025

When shop owners and technicians are asked if they work on heavy-duty vehicles, they often immediately think of over-the-road semis, construction and mining equipment or even agricultural implements. But the heavy-duty industry isn’t limited to just those vehicles. Believe it or not, you’re probably already in that market. Today we’re diving deep into the world of heavy-duty constant velocity (CV) drive axles, specifically focusing on axles designed to withstand the brutal conditions often faced

Trucking 100

Trucking Vehicle Manufacturing Engineering 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 16, 2025

The ASE Education Foundation and the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) have announced a new partnership aimed at enhancing and growing automotive technical education with secondary and post-secondary institutions across the United States. “We’re excited to collaborate with NC3, elevate the conversation and take action to address the technician shortage,” Mike Coley, president of the ASE Education Foundation.

ASE 100

ASE Education Technical Automotive Services 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 12, 2025

Okay, here’s the situation: Your shop just sold new spark plugs on a vehicle that you’re working on. How do you do the job if the coils are either stuck on the plug or the connector will not release? There are a couple tricks I’m going to give to you that you can use to help free these coils up and make the job easier without doing any damage to the ignition coils.

Engineering 100

Engineering Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 12, 2025

Mitchell 1 has released the latest version of its Manager SE 9.2 shop management software, including improvements to its Job View feature. Mitchell 1 says it has added new tools that give service advisors greater flexibility and control when managing revisions. With the enhanced Revisions feature, shops can now create unlimited Sub-Estimates for a customer’s vehicle, covering items such as deferred maintenance, recommended services and previously identified repairs.

Software 100

Software Management IT Service Advisor 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 13, 2025

Despite their presence in nearly every car built in the past two decades, many of your customers are probably unaware of cabin air filters or their significance. Here are some tips for you to help educate them and demonstrate the value of regular replacement. Instead of simply stating the need for replacement, begin by asking if they’ve had the cabin air filter replaced recently or if they’ve noticed any changes in air quality inside the vehicle. “Have you noticed any musty smells wh

Education 100

Education Service Advisor Technical Car 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 13, 2025

Among the many new features and enhancements of the MaxiSYS Ultra S2 diagnostic tablet, including Live Data Fusion, Multi-System Analysis, and Oscilloscope Integration, technicians have shown the most excitement when discussing the enhancements to the already powerful Module Topology feature of its predecessor. Module Topology, version 3 , provides a detailed module and communication network map with module-fault status, including a new “ping” function to verify communication, isolat

Electricity 242

Electricity Vehicle Management Engineering 242

Brake & Front End

JUNE 11, 2025

Misfire and drivability complaints with misfire codes is very common at your shop. What often gets left out is asking that customer, “how long has that misfire been going on?” The longer a misfire is around on an engine, the chances of damaging the catalytic converter are a lot greater. Just think about a misfire. You have fuel and air going into the cylinder, and it is not ignited because either the spark plug is not working or the timing is off.

Engineering 100

Engineering Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 10, 2025

Snap-on recently introduced its new Triton scan tool. According to Snap-on, Triton features wireless technology for a reliable connection in the bay, Fast-Track Component Tests and code-based troubleshooting. “The continuously evolving automotive world has created what is now the most challenging environment that diagnostic professionals have ever seen,” said Helen Cox, marketing and client services director at Snap-on Diagnostics.

Troubleshooting 100

Troubleshooting Technical Automotive Vehicle 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 7, 2025

Complete strut assemblies are more than just a convenience—they’re a smarter repair choice. This video explains how loaded struts can save shop time, reduce comebacks and improve vehicle ride quality by eliminating worn springs and mounts. It also shows how better parts translate to better margins and satisfied customers. Don’t shy away from quoting a full replacement—your customers (and bottom line) will thank you.

Vehicle 100

Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 8, 2025

Every time a vehicle moves, there’s a critical component working behind the scenes to transfer power efficiently: the driveshaft. From early steel designs to today’s advanced composite materials, the driveshaft has evolved significantly, improving performance, durability, and efficiency. The fundamental role of a driveshaft has remained unchanged: it transfers torque from the engine and transmission to the wheels.

Technical 100

Technical Vehicle Engineering Mechanic 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 5, 2025

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) has designated June as Automotive Service Professionals Month (ASPM). This designation honors the vehicle service professionals who keep vehicles running and motorists on the road. Why We Honor Technicians A news release from ASE explained that these professionals play a critical role in communities nationwide.

Automotive Services 140

Automotive Services Automotive ASE Automotive Service Excellence 140

Brake & Front End

JUNE 4, 2025

To promote Tire & Wheel Safety Month during June, RepairPal and custom wheel experts AudioCityUSA have partnered to boost awareness and launch a summer giveaway for safer driving. Tire & Wheel Safety Month is an initiative aligned with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA) annual tire safety awareness efforts. While many drivers recognize the importance of tire pressure and tread depth during summer road trip season, the wheels that tires are mounted on are often ov

Auto Repair Shop 130

Auto Repair Shop Customer Service Automotive Repair Auto Repair 130

Brake & Front End

JUNE 3, 2025

The average age of U.S. light vehicles rose to 12.8 years in 2024, an increase of two months, according to S&P Global Mobility. This marks the second consecutive year of a two-month increase, S&P said. Vehicle registrations surpassed 16 million in 2024 for the first time since 2019. This was not enough to offset the growing volume of aged vehicles as vehicles in operation grew to 289 million with a steady 4.5% scrappage rate.

Vehicle 100

Vehicle Electric Vehicles Electricity Trucking 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 2, 2025

The used car market is surging in both value and volume. The automotive aftermarket is positioned to benefit significantlyand among those who understand it best is Steve Tucker, president of Automotive Parts Associates (APA). In an industry where profitability is boosted by the number of repairable vehicles on the road, the recent upswing in used car sales is providing tailwinds that aftermarket businesses are ready to ride.

Used Cars 100

Used Cars Car Vehicle Automotive 100

Brake & Front End

JUNE 1, 2025

Back in the 80s, turbochargers were all the rage, but they had a pretty short lifespan sometimes only lasting about 40,000 miles. By the early 90s, many automakers ditched them. But rather than becoming forgotten technology, turbos have returned in a big way. Today, nearly 25% of new cars have turbochargers, and that number will likely jump to more than 50% in the next few years.

Engineering 100

Engineering Customer Service Vehicle IT 100

Brake & Front End

MAY 29, 2025

Strut performance plays a critical role in vehicle handling, ride comfort, and even tire wear. This video covers why replacing struts in pairs is important, especially on modern vehicles where ride height can affect alignment and safety. It also explores the benefits of using preassembled loaded struts, which eliminate the need to reuse worn components.

Vehicle 100

Vehicle IT 100