New Car Dealer Closings Is it a silver lining or a forecast for part supply problems?
There has been recent celebrations by some in the aftermarket over the closings of General Motors and Chrysler dealers. But, they really need to step back and realize the true implications of these closings to shops.
Many shops are starting to notice some of their new car dealer part sources answering their phones “(insert dealer’s name) used cars.” Even at dealerships not slated to close, inventories are not too deep and it is becoming difficult for them to find parts in “the system.” For small- to medium-sized towns that have lost or are losing dealers, it is big deal to shops. They have lost a vital parts source needed to keep their customers on the road and their shops profitable
Federal-Mogul Ready to Help Consumers ‘Drive Smart’
Federal-Mogul Corporation will help consumers learn how to increase the reliability and extend the service life of their vehicles through its “Drive Smart Summer Service” campaign, running July 1 through August 31, 2009.
Akebono’s Advertising Will Drive Business Through Your Doors
Sign up for the Akebono Brake Experts Alliance today and Akebono will advertise your business as an Akebono Brake Experts Location. Be on the front line of Akebono’s advanced brake technology and enjoy fewer comebacks, higher profits and increased customer satisfaction.
Tech Feature: Ford Hybrid Braking
A hybrid vehicle is a different animal than many of us are used to seeing. After all, if the engine of a typical vehicle were to stall out at a traffic light, the driver of that vehicle would know something was wrong with it. If that same vehicle still drove with the engine off, then that would mean they were probably going down hill. But in the hybrid world, that is all normal. Several systems around the vehicle are impacted by two key elements.
Mitch Schneider: So…What’s on the Menu?
Mitch addresses “loss-leader” advertising and/or the kind of “menu pricing” environment in which it normally flourishes.
Tech Feature: Mazda Driveability Diagnostics and Check Engine Light Complaints
From a torn air intake hose to ignition system concerns, Bob Dowie tackles driveability issues as well as some of the more common ailments that will bring Mazda vehicles into your bays with a check engine lamp complaint.
Master Cylinders: Reliable, Hard-Working Components Still Need Periodic Inspections
If nothing else, modern master cylinders are notable for their long and relatively trouble-free service lives. The modern master cylinder evolved from the single-piston types popularly introduced in the 1930s to the modern dual-piston, dual braking system cylinders in use today. Master cylinders intended for drum brake use contain one or more residual pressure check valves that maintain a slight pressure in the system.
VIEW POINT: Read the Instructions
Can reading the directions save time?
Vehicle Repairs Cost an Average 34% More at New Car Dealerships than Independent Repair Shops
Vehicle repairs cost an average 34 percent more at new car dealerships than at independent repair shops, resulting in $11.7 billion in excess costs annually to consumers, according to a first-of-its-kind study just released by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). The study reveals dramatic differences in the costs of parts and labor between domestic and import vehicle nameplates and from city to city ….
Management: Good Enough?
Almost every reputable and profitable shop owner I know is looking for the best parts – not the cheapest ones. If parts manufacturers make the best, good shops will buy them. Why? Because a comeback and the hope that the parts manufacturer will cover the labor for the warranty claim clearly outweighs the up-front profit made by installing a cheap part. Cheap parts that compete only on price have the potential to turn the automotive repair industry into a ….