Opinion Archives - Page 11 of 71 - Import Car
Drivers More Familiar With Emojis Than The TPMS Warning Light

As connected and empowered that most young adults are today, you would think they would know more about how to properly care for their vehicle. But, new survey data reveals quite the opposite is true. For example, the TPMS symbol, designed to alert drivers of low air pressure in one or more of their tires, is foreign to many drivers, underscoring the importance of your role in ensuring customer safety and maintaining vehicle system integrity, says Mary DellaValle, editor of ImportCar magazine.

Three Simple Words: Staying In Front

Like you, I spend a lot of time thinking about industry challenges and potential disruptions. I’m also, without question, overly optimistic. The glass is always, without a doubt, half full. Industry challenges are always surfacing. Current business conditions and the economic climate, finding and hiring techs, investing in the tools to fix emerging technology on vehicles, employee training, tax season, and the list goes on and on, says Jim Merle, publisher of ImportCar magazine.

Shift In Vehicle Mix Continues To Spotlight Import Brands

The new year always brings new opportunities based on the overall economic climate, consumer confidence levels, gas prices, miles driven, average vehicle age, the profile of vehicles on the road, and the list goes on. With so many variables in the mix, I’m honing in on a few notable industry insights, and providing a few takeaways, that shed positive light on our industry, says Mary DellaValle, editor of ImportCar magazine.

Emerging Technologies: Are You Ready For ADAS?

While the term “ADAS” might not be familiar to you, you may better know the technology as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Familiarize yourself with the ADAS features that are specific to the vehicles on which you’re working. Industry experts say that the complexity of these systems is only going to increase, so make sure you are ready to service and repair them, says Mary DellaValle, editor of ImportCar magazine.

Elevating Technicians’ Image Takes A Village

In this new age of vehicle electrification, alternative mobility, autonomous driving and connected vehicles, the need for skilled, expert technicians couldn’t be greater, says Mary DellaValle, editor of ImportCar magazine.

Major Impacts To Your Business Now And Into the New Year

In spite of your concentrated efforts to more effectively and profitably run your business, various market influences may lay claim to service dollars that should be yours. Take steps now to head off the effects of these impacts, knowing full well that your customers’ affinity for personal vehicles remains strong, and they trust your expertise to keep one of their most prized possessions operating safely and efficiently, says Mary DellaValle, editor of ImportCar magazine.

Schumacher Electric To Showcase New Products At AAPEX

Schumacher Electric will be present at AAPEX 2018 at the Las Vegas at the Sands Expo on Oct. 30-Nov. 1. The company will feature new products including the SL1404 Portable Power Generator. The SL1404 is a 750Wh Lithium battery-fueled generator that is the perfect go-to power source during a power outage or anytime you need

Stick To The Facts: Dealer Stickers Should Be Banned

Most motorists are not aware that regular maintenance and repairs can be performed by independent shops without voiding the warranty, according to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.

Consumer In-Vehicle Internet Connectivity On The Rise

If you think that your customers aren’t literally tied to the web, think again. Recent survey results from Metova, a global provider of mobile, connected car, connected home and IoT solutions, revealed that more than half of respondents own a car that connects to the internet – either directly or via their phone, says Mary DellaValle, editor of ImportCar magazine.

Need Technicians: $60 – $110K Salary

This job offer for a qualified automotive technician posted on an Internet job site captured my attention. More importantly, did it capture a response for the independent repair shop owner who’s ready to hire?

Virtual Test-Drives Expedite Autonomous Vehicle Platform Certification

While most people are intuitively cautious about new technology, others ask it to do things it was never intended to do. For example, Tesla drivers using the poorly named autopilot have learned a few lessons in asking a system that’s designed to assist – to be the driver.

What’s The Buzz Over Electric Vehicles? Mainstream Appeal Sparks Demand

What makes them so attractive? With lower-than-average ownership costs, increased driving ranges and the latest advanced safety features, AAA sees a strong future for electric vehicles, says Mary DellaValle, editor of ImportCar magazine.