Toyota Chassis & Suspension
Toyota builds some of the most durable cars and trucks on the market. And, there are models for every segment of the population, from eco models that only exhaust drinkable water into the atmosphere, to large luxury models in the Lexus line. With that said, the fact is, there will still be components that can
2004 Underhood Service Repair Market Industry Profile
Welcome to the 2004 Underhood Service Repair Market Industry Profile, our in-depth report of the independent automotive repair market. Our profile below highlights many elements that are a part of doing business in today’s repair shops. The information presented is a good indicator to make short-term predictions about these independent automotive repair shops. It’s also
Don’t Underestimate Your Most Proactive Customers
Within our industry, there’s been much discussion and activity lately related to the value of vehicle preventive maintenance, the benefits of car care awareness and the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act (HR 2735) – all of which have a direct impact on the profitability and viability of your business. The latest topic to
Subaru Steering & Axle Service
Here in the Northwestern part of the country, Subaru has become one of the top nameplates. The versatility of the all-wheel-drive system makes them the ideal ski team hauler or beachcomber vehicle. The compact station wagon design is the most popular model, due to its ability to haul people, and their equipment, in comfort and
Smooth Sailing: Steering, Suspension & Ride Control Repair Opportunities
Original equipment chassis parts on late-model cars and trucks are supposedly engineered to go 150,000 miles or more. But is that 150,000 miles of highway driving on nice smooth roads or 150,000 miles of bumps, potholes and rough roads? The OEMs say it’s some of both. Nobody can predict exactly how long a chassis part
Carburetor Repairs & Recalibrations
As a follow-up to “Dusting Off Fuel System Fossils” in April’s edition of Underhood Service, I will share many driveability concerns and emissions failures that I’ve repaired by rebuilding, and sometimes modifying, certain carb circuits. But before diving into a carburetor rebuild or recalibration, be certain that you understand the system you’re working on, including
ImportCar’s 2004 Import Repair Specialist Study
m in peak-operating condition. ImportCar recipients, who represent the repair network dedicated to servicing this specialized vehicle population, are reaping the benefits of the proliferating import marketplace through their dedication to professional, high-quality repairs. Their business data and shop status reports prove it. Featuring the results of a recent random survey of ImportCar recipients, this
Mercedes-Benz Engine Diagnostics
I’ve always loved the puzzle. Check Engine warning lights have become an everyday chore for me over the last five years. It’s a challenge that extends my interest and creativity in the auto service profession. Before I deal with some specific Mercedes-Benz faults that I’ve researched, I must say that the ability to really solve
MACS Show: Technical Session Coverage
Once a year, the Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) hosts a trade show for A/C shop owners and technicians. This year’s event in Orlando, FL, provided a wealth of service information to those who attended the technical sessions. For those who couldn’t be there, we pass along some of the highlights from the technical sessions.
Perspectives
What do you get when you cross Las Vegas and Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week? A working vacation worth taking this fall. You’ll find so much to see and do, you may not even go near a slot machine. In addition to coinciding with CARS, AAIW – which includes the AAPEX and SEMA shows – will