This site uses cookies to improve your experience. To help us insure we adhere to various privacy regulations, please select your country/region of residence. If you do not select a country, we will assume you are from the United States. Select your Cookie Settings or view our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Cookie Settings
Cookies and similar technologies are used on this website for proper function of the website, for tracking performance analytics and for marketing purposes. We and some of our third-party providers may use cookie data for various purposes. Please review the cookie settings below and choose your preference.
Used for the proper function of the website
Used for monitoring website traffic and interactions
Cookie Settings
Cookies and similar technologies are used on this website for proper function of the website, for tracking performance analytics and for marketing purposes. We and some of our third-party providers may use cookie data for various purposes. Please review the cookie settings below and choose your preference.
Strictly Necessary: Used for the proper function of the website
Performance/Analytics: Used for monitoring website traffic and interactions
Theres nothing quite like a summer road trip, the open road, the music, and the freedom to explore. But before the adventure begins, a vehicle has to be ready to go the distance. Thats where auto mechanics come in. Properly preparing a car for long-distance summer driving is essential, from checking cooling systems to inspecting tire tread. For students enrolled in automotive training at ATC Surrey, its the perfect opportunity to develop real-world skills that keep drivers safe and vehicles runn
In the world of automotive repair, knowing how to talk to customers can be just as important as knowing how to fix their cars. When you can understand the various personality traits of the consumer, you can better work with clients and effectively communicate with them, said Emily Chung, a former auto repair shop owner. At the Tirecraft 2025 Conference in Blue Mountain, Ontario, she explained to the audience how knowing and understanding consumer behaviour can transform how automotive profession
It was once called a brake pedal switch because that is what it was. The switch or pressure sensor would complete the circuit to turn the brake lights or a relay. The switch might have gotten complicated if the vehicle had cruise control. Things started to change in the late 1990s as ABS and stability control became more common. The engineers realized they needed more information about the brake system and what the driver was doing with the brake pedal for ADAS.
EPISODE: 151 Marketing When You Are Not a Marketer You didnt go to school for marketing, but here you are, running a shop and needing to fill those bays! In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Kim Walker gets real about what it is like to jump headfirst into marketing when you are not a trained marketer. (Spoiler: it is scary at first, but it is doable.
As a repair shop owner, handling warranty claims for starters and alternators can sometimes be tricky. But before submitting any claim, its essential to understand what constitutes a valid warranty return and what doesnt. Misdiagnosis or improper installation can lead to unnecessary claims, costing time and money for everyone involved. Lets break down the key things you should check before filing a claim on rotating electrical components like starters and alternators.
Growing your tire shop takes the right inventory and great service, but it also takes marketing that speaks to your customers. Personalized messages and targeted promos help build real connections and lasting loyalty. They're also proven to outperform one-size-fits-all campaigns.
Engine overheating has always been a concern for drivers, but with modern vehicles, the causes and consequences are more complex than ever. Advanced auto mechanic engine technology, tighter design tolerances, and integrated cooling systems mean that diagnosing overheating isn’t as straightforward as it once was. If youre training to become a mechanic, gaining a deeper understanding of engine temperature control is essential for protecting todays vehicles from serious and costly damage.
Suppliers need to give automotive parts distributors better data if they want to sell their parts, a conference panel recently emphasized A distributors ability to sell automotive aftermarket parts and components is only as effective as the data provided by the supplier to help make the sale, attendees of the MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Technology Conference heard from industry leaders.
Suppliers need to give automotive parts distributors better data if they want to sell their parts, a conference panel recently emphasized A distributors ability to sell automotive aftermarket parts and components is only as effective as the data provided by the supplier to help make the sale, attendees of the MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Technology Conference heard from industry leaders.
Brake h oses are the most government-regulated components on a vehicle. Anyone making brake assemblies must be registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT). All aftermarket hose, fittings and complete hoses must conform to FMVSS 106 and SAE J1401. These tests are demanding and often exceed what a vehicle will see in the real world. The DOT standard, in a nutshell, says brake hoses must be flexible in a wide range of temperatures while having a predictable expansion rate so the pedal fe
When it comes to marketing your auto repair shop, having the right tools can make all the difference. Whether its managing your social media , optimizing your website , or running Google Ads for auto repair shops, using the right technology can save you time, improve results, and elevate your shops reputation. But heres the good news: you dont need to be a marketing pro to get started.
In the world of automotive education, instructors often strive to create a balance between technical expertise and real-world application. Tyler Chrystal, an automotive instructor at the Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative in West Springfield, MA, embodies this ideal by fostering an environment of compassion, commitment, and creativity. Chrystal’s approach goes beyond simply teaching automotive concepts; he shapes confident professionals ready to excel in the industry.
The global auto insurance market is undergoing a profound transformation , driven by rising trade barriers, escalating costs, and accelerated technological innovation. Tariffs on vehicles and auto parts are directly inflating repair costs, disrupting supply chains, and increasing claim severity across key regionsfrom the U.S. and Europe to Asia and Latin America.
From navigation systems and vehicle tracking to real-time diagnostics, telematics is transforming how cars are built, maintained, and repaired. Its no longer just about what’s under the hood, it’s about whats inside the software. For automotive school students , this means one thing: evolve with the industry, or risk being left behind. At ATC Montreal, our programs are built to reflect where the industry is headed, not where it’s been.
The automotive industry is moving towards a more sustainable future, with the integration of recycled materials into manufacturing processes emerging as a key strategy, according to a report. Environmental consciousness is becoming a fundamental mandate, said GlobalData, a data and analytics company, and the industry’s commitment to sustainability is poised to significantly reshape market dynamics.
How good are you at reading tire wear patterns? Interpreting these patterns is an essential skill that is equal parts experience, knowledge and skill. The key is to be able to match the wear pattern with the condition of the suspension. Tread patterns reveal the condition of alignment angles, suspension and ride control components. Learning how to read the tire and communicate your findings to your customers is the key to selling ride control.
EPISODE: 153 Preparing for July’s Marketing Julys here, and while the calendar might look quiet, your marketing shouldnt be! In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Brian Walker and Caroline Legrand share real strategies to keep your shop top of mind and your bays full during the summer slowdown. From summer travel prep and college car check-ins to back-to-school drives and fun offbeat holidays like Chicken Wing Day and Tattoo Day, this episode is packed with creative, low-ef
An EV has traveled more than 70,000 miles over the past eight years and still uses the original brake pads. The pads still have eight to 10 millimeters of friction material on the backing plates. But the backing plate shows significant corrosion that may affect pad movement in the caliper bracket. Most internal combustion vehicles could not go this far.
Tesla concluded a difficult first quarter, with deliveries down across the board and disappointing financials. However, market conditions and the anti-Tesla sentiment will likely push the EV maker into a downward spiral as people are less likely to buy its cars. A new study shows that people are reluctant to buy a Tesla, and many decide to sell theirs for fear of social stigma and vandalism.
When most automotive school students think about performance upgrades, they focus on horsepower, tires, or suspension systems. But one critical element often gets overlooked: brake fluid. As vehicle engineering evolves and track-capable road cars become more common, the quality and performance of brake fluids have taken center stage. Auto mechanics who understand the chemistry and role of high-performance brake fluids play an essential role, not just for maximizing performance, but for maintaini
The automotive industry is in a state of rapid evolution but training programs are unable to keep pace. In the latest episode of Auto Service World Conversations , J.F. Champagne, president and CEO of the Automotive Industries Association of Canada, highlighted the growing complexity of vehicle technology and the urgent need for standardized training. “The biggest challenge… is that the vehicle changes so fast the techniques, propulsion, the tools,” Champagne explained.
I'm starting to see more DI carbon problems and reading about chemical solutions causing mechanical issues. Since DI has been around for awhile now, I'm wondering if you guys have any recommendations for a good non vehicle specific walnut blaster. I'm not thinking of anything Harbor Freighty.
EPISODE: 152 Marketing To Hire So, you didnt go to school for HR, and lets be honest, hiring probably wasnt what you dreamed about when you opened your shop. But here you are, needing to fill those bays and build a solid team. In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Kim Walker is joined by Lisa Coyle of Promotive to break down what it takes to hire in todays world, and spoiler alert: its all about marketing.
A failed cooling system doesnt just mean a leakit can also mean damage to critical components like the thermostat. In this video, Andrew Markel discusses how a damaged or aging thermostat can cause persistent drivability problems even after the initial repair, and why it should be part of your inspection checklist after an overheat. This video is sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
In partnership with NAPA, ShopOwner, the Babcox Media brand serving professional independent automotive shop owners, is seeking to recognize and celebrate the vital role of mentorship in the automotive service industry. The ShopOwner Mentorship Award Sponsored by NAPA will honor 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.
If youre enrolled in an auto mechanic school or exploring a future in engine diagnostics and repair, youll quickly learn that not all bolts are created equal. While a bolt might look like a simple fastener, in modern engine assembly, some, such as the torque-to-yield (TTY) bolt, play a critical role where precision, strength, and safety are essential.
From pushing creativity to embracing innovation to being a strong professional in the automotive aftermarket, Auto Care Connect provided many opportunities for industry leaders to discuss ideas and dream up new ones. Held May 12-15 in Phoenix, Connect drew in about 900 auto care professionals from around the world, offering sessions to the Young Auto Care Networking Group (YANG), Paint, Body & Equipment Specialists (PBES), Automotive Content Professionals Network (ACPN) and the overall Auto
Depending on whom you ask, Cadillac needs at least one exciting model in its lineup that's different from the models the GM-owned premium marque currently makes. Most enthusiasts would clearly opt for a performance-oriented machine, perhaps one based on the latest Chevrolet Corvette. Such a model was supposedly on the table, yet it appears that it hasn't. ( continue reading.
I often take a walk, in a nearby park. It’s quiet, simple, and ironically one of the most productive parts of my day. The trees have changed. The paths have shifted. And every time I walk it, I realize how much I’ve changed too. Years ago, I wouldn’t have taken the time. I thought being a good shop owner meant staying plugged in 24/7.
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.
Handling warranty claims for starters and alternators can sometimes be tricky. But before submitting any claims, its essential to understand which ones constitute valid warranty returns and which ones don’t. Misdiagnosis or improper installation can lead to unnecessary claims, costing time and money for everyone involved. Lets break down the key things you should check before filing a warranty return claim on rotating electrical components like starters and alternators.
Torque is one of the most important and often misunderstood concepts in automotive repair. It affects everything from engine performance to the simple task of tightening bolts. For students in auto mechanic training , a deep understanding of torque is essential for doing safe, precise, and professional work in the shop. At ATC Cambridge, torque is more than just a number on a wrench, its a core part of every successful repair and system calibration.
The global automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with 2025 poised to bring new developments influenced by key events in 2024. As automakers navigate evolving market conditions, strategic partnerships, electrification, and the rise of new manufacturing hubs will be central to industry growth, according to Frost & Sullivan.
Stop Losing Money on the Phone: Mastering Ad Calls & Phone Etiquette Webinar Tuesday | 11/25/2025 12:00 PM CT Youre spending good money on marketingbut if your front desk fumbles the phone call, its all wasted. Your ads calls should turn into new customers, but dont because of rushed greetings, bad attitudes, or just not knowing what to say. This Tuesday Teaching is all about fixing that.
The automotive landscape has shifted dramatically. Customer experience (CX) has become the magic differentiator that converts browsers into buyers and first-time customers into lifelong advocates. In a sea of similar inventory and competitive prices, dealerships that master exceptional CX sell more vehicles and establish a sustainable competitive advantage that will drive profitability for years to come.
In honor of National Signing Day on May 6, NAPA and SkillsUSA hosted a celebration at Truist Park in Atlanta. They recognized four standout Georgia students launching careers in the automotive technician trade. This event represents one of many steps NAPA is taking to address the national technician shortage. Each student signed a commitment to join the trades during an official ceremony.
Back in 2023 the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) announced yet another program that's supposed to end with the creation of revolutionary aircraft tech. Called Speed and Runway Independent Technologies (SPRINT), it is meant to form the basis of future aircraft that could take off like a helicopter but be able to travel at almost double the speed rotor wings are capable of.
When most people think about vehicle repairs, they picture oil changes, brake replacements, or engine diagnostics. But as cars evolve, so do the systems that impact how they perform. One area thats becoming more important, from technician to auto mechanic training, is aerodynamics. While the concept of aerodynamics might seem more relevant to engineers or race car designers, its something every professional technician needs to understand.
As preferences and trends change around electric vehicles, the latest issue of EV World speaks to some of the biggest automakers to find out how theyre navigating the path forward. At the Canadian International AutoShow, EV World got to speak with four automaker executives Ford, Volvo, Stellantis and Kia about their views on the market and how theyre adjusting to consumer demands as incentives fall and preferences adapt.
We organize all of the trending information in your field so you don't have to. Join 5,000+ users and stay up to date on the latest articles your peers are reading.
You know about us, now we want to get to know you!
Let's personalize your content
Let's get even more personalized
We recognize your account from another site in our network, please click 'Send Email' below to continue with verifying your account and setting a password.
277 
Let's personalize your content