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The automotive landscape is shifting fast, and so is the job of auto mechanic training. One of the key areas where this shift is most visible is in how electric vehicles (EVs) handle braking. Unlike traditional vehicles, EVs rely heavily on regenerative braking systems, which drastically change how brake wear should be interpreted, diagnosed, and repaired.
For a time, there was concern that younger generations were losing interest in driving. However, recent trends show this isn’t quite the case. According to industry findings, more people among the 35-44 age group are now entering the vehicle market. This marks a shift as older cohorts taper off — a normal trend but a promising sign for the automotive industry’s future.
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.
SAE International has released SAE J3400/2 , a new NACS connector standard for electric vehicles (EVs). Developed by SAE’s Hybrid-EV Committee, this standard outlines the physical and mechanical design of connectors and inlets used in the North American Charging System (NACS). The J3400/2 standard defines this architecture through 2D mechanical drawings and 3D models.
The visual inspection might seem like a basic step, but it’s often the one where costly mistakes are made. If you’re enrolled in auto mechanic training , you’ve likely heard that this initial step sets the stage for the entire diagnostic and repair process. Here’s the truth: many students and even new graduates overlook critical cues simply because they haven’t trained their eyes to spot the less obvious.
The U.S. automotive aftermarket is on track for another strong year, with new projections showing the industry will reach US$435 billion in 2025 — and continue growing well beyond that. A new report from the Auto Care Association and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers forecasts that the U.S. light-duty aftermarket will grow, with expectations to surpass $500 billion by 2028.
We all know what happened in 1979 and how Cadillac's gigantic models were updated to align with the new market expectations and fuel economy trends. The Eldorado was downsized substantially, so the 1978 model year was the last occasion to get a properly-sized Cadillac with a massive engine under the hood. The Eldorado was offered in four configurations in 1978.
We all know what happened in 1979 and how Cadillac's gigantic models were updated to align with the new market expectations and fuel economy trends. The Eldorado was downsized substantially, so the 1978 model year was the last occasion to get a properly-sized Cadillac with a massive engine under the hood. The Eldorado was offered in four configurations in 1978.
Performance Racing Industry (PRI) has released a study that underscores the motorsports industry’s pivotal role as a key contributor to the U.S. economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs, generating billions in economic activity, and delivering substantial tax revenue. PRI commissioned the research, which was conducted by John Dunham & Associates, based on 2025 U.S. economy data.
When today’s vehicles roll into the garage with a check engine light or a strange misfire, gone are the days of relying on guesswork. Complex auto mechanic diagnostic problems now require high-level tools and skills, and one of the most valuable is scan tool graphing. This essential diagnostic technique helps modern mechanics decode real-time vehicle data, and it’s a key skill taught at our auto mechanic school.
As private equity firms expand their reach into the auto repair industry, shop owners must be intentional about making their businesses appealing to potential buyers, according to Sunil Patel, founder of Tekmetric. In this episode of Auto Service World Conversations , Patel explains why private equity is increasingly interested in acquiring repair shops that are having trouble finding an internal buyer, a neighbouring shop or someone in the family to take over.
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 filler has long suffered from a questionable reputation — often due more to technician misuse than to actual product limitations. Fortunately, modern body filler formulations have significantly evolved. Today’s premium products offer better application, improved sanding characteristics, faster curing and enhanced adhesion. Technicians can now work with fillers that mix easily, spread smoothly and produce fewer pinholes — key attributes for high-quality collision repairs.
Modern vehicles are no longer bound by the rigid, odometer-based service intervals of the past. In today’s data-driven auto mechanic landscape, OEM flex schedules, intelligent systems that determine maintenance needs based on real-time operating conditions are changing the rules of routine service. For anyone in automotive training, understanding these evolving schedules is no longer optional.
Starting next year, the number of vehicles in the auto repair-age sweet-spot—cars and light trucks six to ten years old—will shrink significantly for a prolonged period, reported an industry analysis. The reduced number of new vehicles sold from 2020 through 2024 has caused some aftermarket analysts to be worried, observed Lang Marketing. The fear is that aftermarket business could take a hit through 2030 as fewer vehicles sold during that period will lead to fewer entering the repair-age sweet-
Is artificial intelligence the future of auto retailing? The answer to that question depends on whom you ask. Cox Automotive’s Digitization of Automotive Retail Study found an enormous gap between what consumers and car dealers believe will happen. The study, which surveyed 2,193 consumers and 385 franchise dealers, showed 83% of the consumers said the rise of technologies like AI will impact the way they purchase vehicles over the next 10 years, while just 37% of dealers said AI is important to
MarketsandMarkets forecasts the global EV charging station market will grow from $28.47 billion in 2025 to $76.31 billion by 2032. This represents a compound annual growth rate of 15.1 percent. Tesla, Rivian and Hyundai are driving growth by investing in proprietary charging networks. Public and private investments from firms like ChargePoint and BP Pulse continue to expand fast-charging corridors and urban infrastructure.
When people think of vehicle alignment, tires are often the first thing that comes to mind. But today’s vehicles are more complex than ever, and wheel alignment touches far more than just tire wear and steering angles. Alignment plays a crucial role in vehicle safety systems, digital diagnostics, and even energy efficiency. That’s why students at any reputable automotive school need to understand alignment as a system-wide concern, not just a basic maintenance procedure.
OK Tire Stores Inc. announced that it has appointed Brian Mielko as its new president and chief executive officer. The move is effective immediately. He was most recently with Sailun Tire, leading the sales and marketing teams responsible for delivering programs to TBC Corporation’s Big O and Midas channels. Mielko has spent more than 13 years in the tire industry, according to the announcement, creating strategic programs that accelerate client growth OK Tire’s announcement highlighted Mielko’s
Kia and Hyundai thefts have indeed slowed down after the two carmakers released software updates to deal with the infamous Kia Challenge vulnerability, but new statistics show that both brands continue to be targeted by criminals. The ( continue reading.
The Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo ( AAPEX ) is unveiling the details behind the new student engine assembly competition at this year’s event. Teams of vocational students, who are training to be auto technicians, will race to disassemble and reassemble a Chevy 350 engine. Each competing team will be provided with complimentary access to AAPEX 2025, gratis lodging and $1,000 per team for travel expenses.
Fleets are adopting video, AI, and coaching strategies that reduce crashes and boost accountability without compromising driver privacy or operational flexibility.
Snap-on has introduced Triton, its latest diagnostic platform designed to streamline workflow, enhance efficiency, and boost productivity. It features wireless connectivity for fast, reliable performance in the bay and incorporates Snap-on’s exclusive Fast-Track® Component Tests and code-based troubleshooting to simplify complex diagnostics into a focused, guided workflow.
A handful of Super Duty trucks produced for the 2025 model year have been hit with a safety recall. The US-market vehicles in question may have been produced without a brake booster pushrod retaining spring, a condition that allows the pushrod to disconnect from the brake pedal, causing a sudden loss of brake function. The recall documentation filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration lists the supplier of the retainin. ( continue reading.
The camshaft in an internal combustion engine controls the opening and closing of valves. Manufacturers time the camshaft precisely to the crankshaft using a chain, belt or gears. Machined lobes on the camshaft determine how far and how long the valves open. We refer to these measurements as lift and duration. Lift is how far a valve opens. Duration is how long it stays open.
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.
Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, Canadian consumers remain eager to get behind the wheel of a new or used vehicle, according to new research Released by AutoTrader in April, the 2025 Car Shopper Perceptions & Intentions study found that 27 per cent of Canadians plan to purchase a vehicle within the next six months — a four-point increase from November 2024 and back in line with August 2024.
Mercedes-Benz AG's chief executive officer finally admitted that Merc was too ambitious with its electrification strategy. To make a long story short, the Stuttgart-based automaker originally intended to go completely electric where market conditions allow by 2030. Better late than never, Ola Kallenius made it clear that internal combustion engines will be offered into the 2030s due to healthy demand for said powertrains and the inco. ( continue reading.
Torque stripes on brake hoses are more than just markings – they ensure that brake lines are installed correctly and safely. In this technical video, sponsored by NAPA, you’ll learn why it’s critical to keep these stripes aligned, how to do so correctly, why zinc-plated fittings matter as well as tool tips for removal. Also, learn why replacing both front hoses at once is the professional choice.
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.
A new survey found a disconnect between what drivers know and how they behave behind the wheel. While most drivers acknowledge the importance of safe driving, many continue to engage in risky habits — especially those involving smartphones, according to the survey from U.S.-based financial services firm Nationwide. According to the survey, 92 per cent of respondents believe drivers are looking at their phones more often than they were a year ago.
Google recently released the first beta build of Android Auto version 14.7, and users enrolled in the testing program are receiving this update as we speak. However, while the new build mainly aims at registered beta testers, anyone can download and install this update. All it takes is to download the Android Auto 14.7 APK installer on your Android phone and tap the file to begin the update.
The Coats Company (Coats), a leading smart repair brand specializing in vehicle maintenance systems and services that keep work flowing, has revealed its new brand positioning identity, reflecting its strong support for high performing repair and tire shops. To capture the brand visually, the company has a modernized logo, expanded color palette and new design elements in line with its new product and service portfolio brands. “The new Coats brand represents our commitment to providing a f
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.
Dayco is expanding its North American product portfolio with 30 new part numbers now available for order. These new product introductions include eight timing chain kits, nine tensioners, and thirteen hoses, collectively providing coverage for 28.8 million vehicles in operation (VIO). The eight new timing chain kits alone cover 11.6 million VIO and are part of Dayco’s broader plan to launch 60 new kits in 2025.
Thanks to their extremely powerful V8s equipped with capable forced induction systems, these five muscle cars are capable of impressive quarter-mile times. Ever since the 1960s, when muscle cars started to roam the streets, their true potential has been measured over the quarter mile. The original muscle car era drew to a close around 1973. During the 1980s and 1990s, only a very few factory-built, ( continue reading.
Artificial intelligence has emerged as a transformative force in industries across the globe—and the automotive aftermarket is no exception. But, according to Lauren McCullough, CEO and co-founder of Tromml , the aftermarket is still in the early stages of its AI journey. “We’re definitely on the cusp of trying to understand what is AI and what does that mean for the aftermarket,” McCullough said in a recent interview on Business Casual.
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.
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