Viewpoint: The Bi-Polar Aftermarket Image
Last month’s editorial titled the “Pricing Game” spured an unexpected discussion with fellow readers on the current state of the image of the aftermarket and what should be done to create a more uniform message that benefits all involved. There have been numerous threads on iATN making this problem sound like an “us against them”
The Ultimate Answer?: Brake NVH: Part One
In recent years, North American OEMs have had to spend more than $100 million annually at the dealership level to resolve brake noise issues. Also, JD Powers studies indicate brake noise is the third highest complaint identified by new-car buyers in the first 90-days of ownership. Brake noise on the aftermarket level is even more
The Pricing Game: Technology Puts Part Prices in the Hands of Your Customers
What is the right amount for parts mark up? 20%, 35%, 100%, or do you just go by the retail price of a part as determined by the manufacturer, jobber or WD? This is a tough question in terms of business practices and ethics. This gray area can get a lot of people in trouble.
ABS Bleeding Service Pointers Help Complete the Job Right the First Time
Honda Honda has a well-deserved reputation for overall vehicle reliability, which extends to the ABS system. For the most part, bleeding the system will present no unusual problems. Caution: A word of warning when working around the accumulator and modulator assembly. The brake fluid is under thousands of pounds of pressure (3,625-5,075 psi). Be sure
Replacing FWD Wheel Bearings
When a wheel bearing goes out on a FWD car or minivan, it may or may not give much warning. Typical clues include noise from the vicinity of the wheel, possibly some steering wander or looseness in the steering, and/or some abnormal tread wear on the front tires. Also, an ABS light could illuminate. Any
Brake Hardware: Lessons Learned From a Little Piece of Wire
Every technician has struggled with those little wire clips that push the pads onto the pistons on first-generation Mazda Miatas. Those little clips that barely fit into the painted-over holes on the new pads and can shoot across the shop like a rubber band can make a big difference. One racecar builder who specializes building
Brake Dynamometer Testing: One Test is Worth a Thousand Expert Opinions
Some friction material companies market their products by saying they are third-party tested or tested on their own brake dynamometer. But, understanding what this really means is tough if you do not understand how a brake dynamometer operates. In the engine performance world, an engine dynamometer is associated with measuring performance. Brake dynamometers also measure
Rotor Metallurgy
In the past few years, the prices of rotors seem to be dropping. Call just about any parts supplier and they can quote you a vast range of prices for the same application. When you compare the rotors side-by-side, they may look the same. But, the difference between a comeback and satisfied customer might be
Criminal Inspection Update
Since my last column titled “Criminal Inspections,” I have received a lot of email about the status of the case and how this case will affect other shops. The case has yet to go to trial (at the time of printing), but I did get a chance to talk the shop manager’s lawyer. As far
Lube Bay Series: The LOF Forecast
Can you put out the light?
Taking of the Hill, Voicing Your Aftermarket Concerns to the Government
Do you realize that General Motors spent more than $7.9 million on political lobbying in 2003? Most of their efforts were focused on issues like steel prices, emissions and safety issues. But, some of their time and money was used to make their stance on right-to-repair legislation known to lawmakers. So who voices your concerns