Automotive Refinish: Color Matching and Paint Codes
Today, the automotive refinish category is much more complex than simply painting it black, and the options available to our customers are as confusing as they are colorful.
Indirect Tire-Pressure Monitoring System: The ‘Other’ TPMS
Indirect TPMS, as its name implies, does not use a direct “PSI” reference to calculate tire pressure.
Evaporative Emissions Systems: PO’d About P0440
While the purpose of the EVAP system is to reduce pollution due to the loss of fuel vapor into the atmosphere, each manufacturer achieves this goal using a slightly different combination of components.
Belt-In-Oil Timing Drives: A Sign Of The Times In The Auto Industry
As emissions and fuel economy standards become more and more difficult for the OEMs to meet, unique technologies like these will drive the future of the industry.
Vehicle Identification Numbers: Cracking ‘The Da-VIN-ci Code’
The modern 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) became mandatory for new vehicles sold in the United States beginning with the 1981 model year.
Constant-Velocity Axles: More Retailers Opting For Half-Shaft Assemblies
Complete replacement axles have become the industry standard, due to their ease of replacement and the availability of economy-priced axle assemblies in new and remanufactured forms.
Vehicle Transmissions: Understanding These ‘Electro-Hydraulic Monstrosities’
Today’s transmissions, in addition to having a ridiculous number of forward gear ratios and dedicated computers, are crammed full of sensors, switches and solenoids, each with a very specific purpose.
Aftermarket Offers Replacement Washer Fluid Reservoirs For Many Makes, Models
As a driver, there are few things as disappointing as pressing the windshield washer button and … nothing happens.
Automotive HVAC Systems: Core Training For Counter Professionals
This is the time of year when the automotive HVAC system is working extra duty, attempting to maintain comfortable cabin temperatures across a wide range of outside temperatures.
Steering Column Switches And Sensors In 21st Century Vehicles
As security, safety and convenience have become increasingly important to today’s drivers, the steering wheel has become the primary interface between car and driver.
Low-Temperature Fuel System Additives: Keeping Fuel Lines Flowing
Preventative maintenance always is the best way to guard against cold-weather problems, but keeping a strong supply of winter fuel-treatment chemicals still can be helpful to your customers – and profitable for your store.
Dirty Air Filters Can Tell Us The Dirty Truth About A Vehicle’s Engine
Other than cross-referencing or measuring the occasional dirty element, we don’t have much opportunity to see the condition of the filter, an advantage that our professional customers enjoy every oil change or other service opportunity.
