Auto Repair Help Troubleshooting - Using General Diagnostics

Welcome to a briefly informative auto repair troubleshooting article. There is extreme consumption of time and money, if you are not ready for the auto repair shop. The vehicles of today are extremely complex, it takes training and skill to properly diagnose your vehicle. There are ways of educating yourself for the dreaded auto repair visit; therefore automotive diagnostic troubleshooting is essential information to obtain. Make sure the information you are receiving is credible. In this article I will examine general diagnostic troubleshooting and some procedures that follow.

Diagnostic trouble shooting for auto repair takes equipment, education and pure skill. Knowing a honest and reliable auto technician can be a great commodity. Having some general diagnostic knowledge will keep you from being ripped off and may help you to stay out of the repair shop. The Internet is rich with information and can help you in diagnosing your vehicle for repair, which will save you time and money. Remember this does not make you qualified for auto repair, but will help you to briefly understand what is involved.

Does the vehicle run? Many times I will diagnose a no start on a vehicle and it is something simple like a loose battery cable. Make sure you check all battery power & ground connections. Are the battery cable ends loose? Do they look corroded? A majority of the time you will find your no start condition is the battery connections or the battery itself.

Does the vehicle crank OK, but not start? When diagnosing a crank and no start, you will need some basic tools.

- Fuel Pressure gauge
- Compression tester
- Spark tester

These tools will help you to establish the most important duties a vehicle must perform in order to start. Fuel pressure, Compression and spark are the essential basics for an internal combustion engine to operate. Consult a qualified auto repair technician or the manufacturer for proper testing procedures.

The automobile starts, then dies? Many times on the newer vehicles, this condition will cause a check engine light, but is subject to the problem. No starts can have tail tale signs from the vehicles computer and may be intermittent. Usually a no start problem is due to an ignition component failure (crankshaft sensor, camshaft sensor, ignition module etc.). When diagnosing a vehicle that starts and then dies, make sure you harness the proper equipment for the job. Warning, Improper diagnosing techniques may result in damage to your cars computer. Use caution when attempting any form of vehicle auto repair troubleshooting.

Does the vehicle run, but has no power and a check engine light? Again remember the basics; fuel pressure, compression and spark the essentials to make your auto operate. These three parameters must first be examined to diagnose a drive ability or "check engine light" problem. Scan your vehicles computer for the check engine indicator light, which will get you to the circuit failure. The rest depends on what you have learned and or how much knowledge your auto repair consultant has.

In this article I have briefly examined some basic auto repair troubleshooting.

Windshield Repair, a More Practical Solution than Windshield Replacement

Automobiles in today's modern world are equipped with many more safety features than ever before in history. Considering the high and ever-increasing number of traffic accidents that occur on the busy streets and highways of the United States, it is vitally important that vehicles have built-in mechanisms that make surviving an accident more likely. Safety features like air bags, seat belts, third brake lights, and safety glass used in windshields are essential for modern drivers and their passengers. Fortunately more and more of these safety features are being made standard equipment in new automobiles every year.

But what happens when these safety features are threatened -- perhaps damage to the windshield for example? Well, there are numerous different options, ranging from impractical and inconvenient to cost-effective and hassle-free. If your windshield gets damaged, you could either:

1) Learn to live with it (until you get pulled over for driving an unsafe vehicle with impaired visibility)

2) Get a whole new car (not exactly the most cost effective way to go)

3) Replace the windshield (Much more reasonable cost but must be done absolutely right)

4) Repair the windshield (If the damage is minor enough, a very effective and efficient way to go)

No one should have to endure a damaged windshield. Especially in today's world, with so many different replacement and repair options available. As for getting a new car, well, you might if you were planning to anyway, but what about the value of the car you'd be selling or trading in -- it now has a damaged windshield after all! And what happens when your next car's windshield gets damaged -- you won't always be able to replace a car just for a simple windshield crack. You could replace the windshield, but that may cost more than you really need to spend, depending on the extent of the damage. Or -- you could simply get the windshield repaired.

A simple windshield repair is a great way to fix the damage to the glass while preserving the safety features of the vehicle. Windshield repair [http://lasertargeted.com/glassrepair/windshield-repair.html] is performed without destroying the factory's safety seal of windshield to vehicle. This seal holds the windshield in place during collisions and ensures that the airbag will deploy properly. Windshield repair will also halt the spread of damage; restore structural integrity to damaged glass; improve clarity by 80% or more in damaged area; extend the glass's useful life; cost less than automotive glass replacement, and will enable the vehicle to pass safety inspection.

In a nutshell, windshield repair means injecting a specially formulated resin into the area of damaged auto glass. The resin is then cured and polished, which restores the structural strength and clarity to the glass. Then you have a repaired windshield with a barely noticeable scar (no larger than the size of a sharpened pencil point).

Now, doesn't that make a lot more sense than replacing the whole thing?

Not all windshields can be repaired. The damaged area should be relatively small (no longer than a dollar bill). A trained technician should be able to tell you if windshield repair is possible for you. You never know unless you ask!

Some Tips on Choosing an Auto Repair Shop

It is inevitable. You are driving along, minding your own business and paying attention to the rules of the road when someone else slams into you, causing massive damage to your car. While it is not your fault, it is still your job to get estimates for the damage so you can present the insurance company with an accurate summary of what it will cost to get your car fixed. No matter how light the accident was if there has been body damage, the cost to repair your car will likely be through the roof.

Because cars today are nearly all one piece, instead of several sheets of metal like they were in the past, costs have risen considerably when it comes to getting body repairs. This is why you need to find a good Auto Repair Shop, which will offer you a fair price and estimate on fixing your car, so even if you have a deductible, you won't have to worry about insurance rates rising too much. Auto Body Repair shops are numerous, as more and more people are getting into the field of auto repair; however, not all shops are created equal and there are many things you should look out for when choosing your shop.

The first thing you should ensure is that you are hiring a licensed professional. Many people perform small time repairs out of their garages and while this can be great in saving you money, it's unlikely an insurance company is going to accept a hand written estimate on a sheet of notebook paper. Once you have ensured that you are speaking with a licensed professional, be sure to get a detailed estimate. A piece of paper that says it is going to cost $1,500 dollars to fix your car is not enough for most insurance companies. They want to know exactly why a service is going to cost $1,500 and where all of the money is going. If they feel the cost for any portion of the estimate is unreasonable, they could reject it. This is why it is so important to be sure you get an itemized estimate.

Aside from itemization, you should ask around to find out how long it will be in the auto repair shop. If your car is severely damaged to the point of being inoperable, you'll likely be given a rental which will have to be paid for. Who pays for the rental car is determined by your insurance policy, so make sure to check what you're getting into.

Toyota RAV4 Is Getting Old And Outdated

Toyota RAV4 was first introduced in 1994 and was the first in the compact SUV market. It had a car like drive and a "tough street" look, that caught on. Many competitors followed Toyota to get their share of the market. The next generation was launched in 2000 and the latest in 2006. Though RAV4 is a very good car, but still it fades into the background. Perhaps it is its age or may be it doesn't have all of the features to offer like the rivals such as Land Rover Freelander, Honda CR-V and Nissan X-Trail.

It's weird that the third generation RAV4 lacks the sporty looks of its predecessor. It has an uninspiring design as compared to its direct rivals like Honda CR-V and Nissan X-Trail. RAV4 still supports the side hinged back door which feels so out dated as compared to top hinged tailgate. Having said that, the RAV4 makes up for what it lacks with its logically laid out interior. The materials and plastics used are of high quality. The driving position is quite high giving a good all round view.

The RAV4 might not be exciting but it sure does deliver. It gives a secure feel on the road,is comfortable to ride and performs well on the bends thanks to its four wheel drive system and high electric traction. The steering is responsive and light making it very easy to park. RAV has a soft suspension returning a smooth drive on bumpy roads. There are two engines to choose from a 2.0 litre petrol and 2.2 D-4D diesel. The petrol engine is much thirstier than the diesel. The 2.2D 4-D returns an economy of 47.1mpg considerable better than the CR-V's 43.5mpg.

The Toyota RAV4 only has a four star Euro NCAP rating. RAV4 is equipped with driver, side and curtain airbags, some models also have a driver knee air bag. Toyota is known for its reliability, and managed to score fifth position in Auto Express Driver Power Survey and RAV4 came 28th in model classifications indicating it is overall a reliable and safe car to own. For the extra peace of mind all models come with a five years standard warranty by Toyota.

The back of the RAV4 is spacious and the seats can be slid back and forth according to the required legroom. The boot has 560 litres of space which is much more than the Honda CR-V. The seats can be folded to increase the boot space. The side hinged rear door proves to be impractical and frustrating in tight spaces. It doesn't even open to full 90 degrees. One doesn't have to spend any extra money for the basic options as most of the models come with a decent amount of kit like parking sensors, Bluetooth and cruise control while MP3 compatible stereo, air conditioner and alloy wheels come with all models, which is not the case with its rivals. Overall RAV4 is good value and a well built car but unfortunately it is ageing now. The rivals have much more to offer than RAV4. It desperately needs a makeover to get its share in the fiercely competitive market.

Taking the Jerk Out of Your Transmission

It would be great if you could just eliminate all the "jerks" in your life. You wouldn't have to put up with annoying people who are rude to you. You wouldn't have to start and stop your car in heavy traffic. You wouldn't have to wonder about that awful clunking sound when your car shifts from one gear to another.

The bad news is the jerks who are people and the car jerking related to driving in traffic congestion cannot be fixed with mobile car service. The good news is Mobile Car Care can help with the clunking sound which makes you clench your teeth as the sound of metal on metal resounds through the car. With the sophisticated diagnostic and repair equipment on mobile car care vans, you can eliminate the transmission jerks from your life with convenience and ease.

Slip Sliding and Flushing Away

Most vehicles today are manufactured with automatic transmissions, but there are plenty of manual gearboxes in cars of all ages. The transmission is a complex piece of equipment that is essential to your car's smooth operation. Actually the transmission is a set of mechanical systems which can include hydraulic, electrical and computerised units. That is why Mobile Car Care vans are equipped to deal with a variety of common transmission problems.

What are the typical car transmission repair needs which can be handled by a mobile car care service? You might be surprised to learn that most problems can be fixed in your driveway or at your place of business. You don't have to try and manage your life or balance your business needs without an essential car or van because a repair shop keeps it for days at a time.

Mobile Car Care can handle a wide range of transmission issues and repairs.

* Slipping
* Leaking fluid
* Won't shift
* Jerks when trying to shift into park or reverse
* Computer problems
* Shift throttle cable problems including breakage
* Normal wear requiring complete overhaul
* Linkage vacuum hoses broken or worn
* Loose electrical connections

Naturally these are not all of the transmission problems which can occur, but they are the most common. From replacing computerised modules to flushing the transmission, the Mobile Car Care van is prepared to deal with all of the common repair needs your transmission may require. In the unlikely event the problem requires special tools and cannot be fixed at a remote site, the Mobile Car Care workshop is fully equipped with trained mobile mechanics ready to get your car quickly back in action.

Smooth Shifting

The type of transmission repair your vehicle needs depends on the problem of course. The mobile repair van is fully equipped to make and accurate diagnosis and then repair the problem. Repairs include sealing leaks, replacing parts such as sensors and solenoids, tightening electrical connections, replacing broken linkages, and even doing a complete transmission overhaul.

It is important that vehicle owners detect transmission problems as soon as possible just like it is important to do regular maintenance. Signs a transmission problem exists include leaks under the car, vibrations or odd sounds, car refusing to shift smoothly, or car refusing to shift at all. Vehicle owners should check fluid levels and connections regularly.

Businesses operating fleets of cars and/or vans can take advantage of the Mobile Car Care on-site service program to prevent problems. For example, service programs include periodic transmission flushing.

Mobile Car Care can handle most of the typical transmission problems wherever your vehicle is parked.

Should I Choose a Mobile Repair Service For My Vehicle?

When you need a repair on your vehicle you have a ton of questions and concerns running through your head. How long will the repairs take? How much will the repairs cost? How will I pay for the repairs? Will my insurance pay for the repairs? How will I choose an auto body shop to complete the repairs? Will the auto body shop do a good job repairing my vehicle? With all the options that we have today with our vehicles it is sometimes hard to choose. Many times people are concerned with the time involved in repairs. They like the idea of a mobile repair service, but are not quite sure about the idea yet. So, should you choose a mobile repair service for your vehicle?

Remember no matter what you always want to choose an auto body shop or service that has a great reputation. You also want to choose a repair specialist who produces the quality of work that you expect. Make sure that you choose a specialist who you feel comfortable with working on your vehicle.

A mobile auto body repair service is a great service. Basically it is meant to benefit the customers. The mobile service will come to you and repair your vehicle where ever you are, whether you are at home, work or school. This is great because you don't have to go anywhere, and you won't be put out. Also you will not be without your vehicle which is a major concern for those who have places they must be. Not all auto body services can be completed from a mobile service, however there are quite a few that can be.

There are two different ways you may receive mobile repair service. One may be a company that only has the mobile service with no auto body shop location. The other would be an auto body shop that simply offers to come to you if you need them to for certain repairs.

Most people prefer to use the mobile service that is an attachment to an auto body shop location. They feel that it is safer. For example, where would you go if you had a problem with a repair that was completed on a strictly mobile service? For that reason alone it is suggested that you use an auto body shop that simply offers to come to you for certain repairs. In that case if you do have a problem you know exactly where to locate the manager to handle your problem. Also usually an auto body shop that has a physical location usually seems a little more dependable and secure than a float along mobile service.

Find a qualified mobile repairs service to handle your vehicles auto body repairs. What service you choose is up to you, there is no right or wrong choice. It is simple: choose who you feel is going to produce the best quality work and who you feel comfortable with doing the repairs on your vehicle.

Tips on How to Find Best Automatic Transmission Repair Shop

The automatic transmission repair becomes imminent once some problem is noticed in the automatic transmission system of an automobile. Most of the vehicle owners don't want to go through the expensive process. They try to gather certain useful tips that they can practice at home successfully. There are preventive steps for automobile maintenance but you should not hesitate from taking your vehicle to transmission repair shop. In fact regular transmission repairs will give your automobile better mileage & performance. Several repair shops are operating in marketing & providing high quality service to vehicle owners. Be sure that the shop you choose for your vehicle maintenance service will perform beyond your expectation & provide the best quality service for low price.

With so many busy shops offering reliable service, automobile owners face difficulty on which one to choose for. Though vehicle repairing are very expensive but some of the shops claim to offer them for low price. Therefore the vehicle owner must compare the pricing & other important features of shops before settling for one. The automatic transmission vehicle shop having both experience & expertise will cater to your repairing demands better. As a vehicle owner, you should carefully consider few things which will help you find out a suitable transmission shop faster.

Most of the auto repair shops don't really offer the automatic service from their own premise. They offer it in association with some technical expert. Such shops will charge more than the usual price. It may prove costlier for you & therefore advised to avoid these repair shops. You should go to Transmission repair expert directly so you cut the middleman altogether.

It is always a good idea to shop around & gather as much information as you can present in the nearby areas. It will help you find out a good number of shops which will provide high quality transmission repair service for reasonable price. Again the test drive, vehicle testing or damage expenses come well under the repair costs & therefore you don't have to pay for them individually. Sometimes the transmission mechanic may feel the urgency to take your transmission system out of the automobile & inspect it individually so as to recognize the problem faster. If this is the case, make sure that you have got the warranty card for your transmission system before paying for the bill of work done on your vehicle.

Automotive Preventive Maintenance - Finding a Reliable Auto Mechanic

Regular automotive preventive maintenance on your vehicle will not only preserve your cars life, it will save you a ton of money on auto repair. There are certain maintenance intervals recommended by your vehicles manufacturer. Those service procedures are important, but are only a start, using other techniques along with the dealers recommendations will keep you driving to financial freedom from expensive auto repairs. A good independent auto mechanic is a great alternative to the dealer, offering dealership quality at a lower price. Remember preventive maintenance is a strong building block to a healthy automobile, considering most auto repair bills are due to the customers lack of maintenance. I see neglected vehicles day in and day out. This article is intended to educate the reader about using preventive maintenance to prevent expensive auto repair and how to find an auto mechanic that only services what your vehicle needs.

Preventive maintenance is hard to discuss, but using these guidelines will clean up the subject. Make sure you read the vehicles manual and learn the proper service intervals on your auto. Have a record of any service or repair you have already had done. Find any recalls on the vehicle. These steps build a platform to achieve a reliable vehicle and mechanic. Plus a kicker "save a ton of money", on the other hand you could just "trade your car in", no matter how new your vehicle is, it will always need service and not just an oil change. There are other services needed throughout the life of your vehicle. I will explain some general automotive services in another article.

Finding a reliable auto mechanic, that services or repairs only what is needed on the vehicle and knows how to perform the proper services will be the final task to a saving money on your automobile. Requiring research and patients, again make sure you educate yourself on the recommended maintenance intervals (30K, 60K, 90K etc.). Have your auto service and repair records handy. Locate any recalls the vehicle may have and use the knowledge you have obtained to your advantage when consulting an auto repair facility.

I am a Master Certified Auto Mechanic, know what it takes to fix, service and save money on any vehicle manufactured. I strive on educating our readers on taking care of their vehicle. Everybody knows auto mechanics can be a rip-off. Taking pride in protecting people from the crooks in the auto repair industry is my mission. In this article, I have briefly educated the reader on how to protect one of their biggest investments "their ride".

How to Remove Paint Overspray

From time to time I've been known to forget a piece of tape here or there, resulting in overspray of all different magnitudes. There is several different types of overspray and I'll let all the DIY'ers know the best way to remove them. The body shop should always take care of it for you but it's not always a perfect world, so here you go.

Clearcoat overspray - this is likely the most common that you will find. It is characterized by the grainy feel you will observe when you run your hand over the vehicle, just like sandpaper! It is also difficult to obtain a spot-free wash as clear overspray will make your finish prone to water spoting. There is a few options you can use. Paint thinner on a rag can remove it pretty quickly, however it runs some risks when using over fresh paint so you may want to consider another method.

Ideally you can use a clay bar and basically wet your car down and rub the clay bar around the entire vehicle. It will start of feeling gritty & once the clay bar has removed the overspray you will have a nice smooth feeling finish once again. Sometimes it leaves behind some pieces of clay on the surface which can be easiliy removed with a mild solvent, wax & silicone remove will work well. If you keep the clay moving it wont stick and break apart, it's when you stop it tends to stick.

Another great way to hand overspray is using a polisher. You can polish to remove the overspray and at the same time you will be shining up your finish. You will want to start with a coarser compound, then finish with a lighter swirl remover. Have a look at our repair video's and training if you would like some information on this method.

Acid's can remove very mild overspray and road fallout. You can use a mild acid some that are even designed for wire wheels will work. Some companies put in under the name as a fallout remover. Generally you will wash your car using this in place of soap, let it sit 5 minutes and wash it of, repeating if necesarry.

For window's the easiest way by far is some very fine steel wool. Just scrub the window with it and off the overspray comes. You can also use a razor blade, just angle it and scrape.

Primer & Paint Overspray - now the only way to remove this is by using paint thinner or a solvent of some kind. It will take some rubbing and soaking, wear gloves if attempting. This will also damage any fresh paint so be careful around those area's. Also be cautions on trim items and baked in colors parts such as textured mirrors, handles, rockers.

One last trick is for rubber moldings. Ideally you won't have any overspray on your moldings and hopefully the shop removed them. If your looking to fix this up yourself grab a black sharpe marker and you can bet this is a much safer fix then trying to remove it. If you haven't guessed just touch up your moldings and consider a new shop next time.

Automotive Training Paves the Way to a Lucrative Career Path

When it comes to the person who does auto repair, the term "mechanic" no longer applies. With most vehicles having a least a half dozen - and sometimes more than two dozen - electronic components, the term "automotive technician" is much more applicable. Along with the increasing complexity of vehicles' electronics comes an increasing need for automotive training. A highly trained automotive technician can earn a high income, making automotive training a necessity and the automotive field a popular career path.

Auto training can run the gamut, from high school courses where students work on used engines and used automotive equipment to intensive technical school certification programs with a duration of six months to a year. Some community colleges offer an associate's degree related to auto repair and technology; these programs are often sponsored by vehicle manufacturers and dealerships, and involve alternating classroom training with hands-on work at a dealership.

ASE Certification

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, known as ASE, is a nonprofit organization that offers testing and certification to automotive technicians. ASE's voluntary certification program provides a benchmark for automotive training programs and technicians in that it is a national standard for excellence. According to the ASE, theirs is the "largest occupational testing and certification program in the world." Many automotive training programs at high schools, technical schools, and colleges are ASE-certified, and automotive technicians sit for ASE exams in order to become certified.

Career Paths

Automotive training typically leads to entry-level positions in the automotive repair industry. Those who have gone through training may begin their careers as trainee technicians or assistants, but can quickly advance as they gain experience. Those who have a complex specialty may have a longer road to travel in order to reach mastery, but their specialized knowledge will translate into better pay. On the other hand, those who do not need comprehensive knowledge of auto repair - such as brake technicians - may advance more quickly but may also more quickly reach the ceiling of earning potential. Those with the deepest knowledge and broadest range of experience have the potential to move into automotive management jobs, which involve the supervision of automotive technicians and specialists.

Demand for Automotive Technicians

Regardless of the state of the economy, the demand for auto repair and thus for automotive technicians remains steady or continues to grow. With the increasing complexity of today's vehicles, automotive training is continually evolving and becoming more refined. Thus, a career in auto repair will continue to bring financial rewards for years to come.

Auto Repair General Managers - Facts That You Should Know

As one of the greatest expense areas, auto repair is one thing that general managers should know something about. With this knowledge, they would be better placed to know how to cut the costs; which is in line with their fundamental duties (where the core duties of general managers usually revolve around trying to maximize profits; while taking measures to minimize costs).

Most of the basic facts about auto repair general managers should know therefore revolve around understanding what the major cost areas in auto repair are and what mitigating measures can be taken to keep the costs down.

Successful management of auto repair costs, as indeed the successful management of all costs, starts with the keeping of proper records. A system should be created where all repair costs related to each and every vehicle the organization owns are noted and added up; to ascertain whether it is economical to continue keeping the vehicle in the first place.

Auto repair costs can be pushed down if cars can be taken for repairs in a timely manner; because procrastinating the repairs more often than not means that the underlying fault only gets worse (and therefore more expensive to repair). Auto repair costs can be pushed further down if the right service providers can be identified and relationships nurtured with them or if an in-house auto maintenance department can be established.

Some of the basic facts about auto repair general managers should know also revolve around the identification of common mistakes organizations make, regarding auto repair, and ensuring that one's organization does not end up making the same mistakes.

An example of such mistakes regarding car maintenance that people unwittingly make is that of delaying belt replacement procedures. As it turns out, the car has a number of belts, through which power is passed from one system to another. Delays in belt replacement therefore put the vehicle at major risk of simply 'falling apart' one day (which is a crisis of sorts); typically at the worst possible times.

Another mistake with regard to car maintenance that people unwittingly make is that of going about fuel pump and injector replacements in the wrong way. Since these are frequently done procedures, many people come to take them for granted; often to their great detriment. The truth of the matter is that fuel pump and injector are in fact highly delicate vehicle parts, whose replacement should only be done by highly qualified and experienced mechanics. In other words, these are not suitable DIY projects.

Delay in changing engine oil is another car repair mistake many people tend to make; often causing their cars untold harm. As we all know, engine oil should be changed after every so many miles logged by a vehicle. And in an organizational setting, a rule should be created to the effect that the vehicle must not be allowed to move around with engine oil whose replacement is past due.

Of course, these are just a few of the facts about auto repair general managers should know; but they do show the general direction one should be looking if they want to keep their auto repair costs down.

Starting An Auto Repair Business On A Shoe String - Costly Mistakes You Must Avoid

What is your greatest hurdle when starting an auto repair business on a shoe string? Beyond your tools, beyond your space, beyond the constant need to check and double check your books your biggest hurdle will be getting the word out.

How do I know this? Because I work with shops who have been in business for decades and they still have a problem keeping the car count up!

In this day and age word of mouth (WoM) is the most powerful tool you have. However, WoM has changed. We're now seeing reports from shop owners, in the same place servicing the same customers for over 35 years who are seeing drop offs in their numbers.

Is this how you want to launch your new venture?

Starting An Auto Repair Business On A Shoe String - #1 Mistake You Must Avoid

Before I give you some information on what you should look into in order to be successful starting an auto repair business on a shoe string, there is one thing you must NOT do.

GET OUT OF THE PHONEBOOK!!!!

The phonebook is the #1 way you will dump scads of cash down the drain and never see any return. Frequently when we interview new clients we ask them what they do to get their names out there. We hear: direct mail, coupons, internet... but very infrequently will anyone mention the phonebook.

So we ask directly. And they say "Yes, of course we're in the phonebook!"

The phonebook has become something most shop owners 'just do'. I have to admit, that's some amazing persuasive force those phonebook folks have on the auto repair industry! But like so many other rituals, it has simply become a costly and completely useless tradition.

You can live without it. Like they say with drugs: Just say no.

Here are some hard, cold facts about phonebook advertising:

#1: Phonebooks provide nothing in the way of relevant information. They are a list. Furthermore, they are a list which makes every company look pretty much the same. The fact is you need to stand out in a crowd if you're going to have a prayer of surviving in this massively competitive market.

#2: Your customers are not going to find you in the phonebook. Almost every man, woman and child in America is using the internet to find information. Be there. But be there correctly. (More on this later)

#3: Phonebook readership has declined by an insane amount in the past 5 years. Sure they mail one out to every home in the country, but does anyone read it? No. People use phonebooks as kindling or as something to prop up chairs.

Starting An Auto Repair Business On A Shoe String - Your Biggest Solution

Since you're starting an auto repair business on a shoe string, you have a massive advantage over your competition. You have not yet fallen prey to the mindless, cookie-cutter advertising traditions your competition has been butchering for decades.

In fact, you may not even need to use traditional advertising to start.

Here's a question to consider: why does word of mouth work in the first place?

We've started asking shop owners that question and what we've gotten back is pretty good. Most shop owners give variations of this: "WoM works because we did a good job. People tell their friends when they have car problems and that's what keeps food on our plates."

What's wrong with this statement? Nothing. It's 100% true. But it's not the complete picture.

Here's another question: how can you create WoM before you have any customers to sing your praises?

The answer is tied into the reason WoM works in the first place. WoM works because you have established trust with your customer.

Starting An Auto Repair Business On A Shoe String - The #1 Golden Rule

People buy more goods and services from those who they know and trust. And the #1 way to build trust is to become an information service provider to those people.

Become that information provider to your local market, and you may never have to spend a dime on conventional advertising.

Starting An Auto Repair Business On A Shoe String - Problems = Potential

Did you know that in most markets auto repair shops are frequented by a massive percentage of women drivers? Did you also know most of these women drivers feel they are being completely taken advantage of? They fear taking the car into the shop.

What if you were to address this concern directly?

What do you think would happen if you were to offer free lessons where people who feel scammed could come to your shop and learn how to avoid the problems in the first place?

Who do you think would enjoy this? Women. Your customers. Everyone.

Spreading the word would cost about as much as a sheet of paper. You would create a press release, send it to the local media and then get the information into the hands of the PTA or some other group.

Offer your information completely free and never, never pitch or sell your services. Have the people who come ask questions, give demonstrations and show examples of what they need to watch out for.

Do this 1x per month and you will find yourself so busy you'll have to double your staff.

What do you think the result would be for your business if you were to be seen as the #1 facility in your town where people can go and not be taken advantage of?

Total Cost: $0. Total Effectiveness: Infinite

Welcome to starting an auto repair business on a shoe string.

Impact Gun - The Tool Just About Every Auto Technician Needs

As an automobile mechanic it's really important that you possess almost all of your own power tools. You can't always be borrowing tools from other individuals, and also you certainly can not do everything by hand should you desire to get your jobs completed quickly.

Frequently an auto mechanic's wage is based on a standard price. That is somebody at the auto producer's headquarters has determined that the job really should only take 3 hours. The problem with this for the auto technician is that any time you take 6 hours to finish the work, you still only get compensated for 3 hours. Nonetheless, it works both ways. If you ever complete it in 1 hour, you still get compensated for three hours.

One of the most effective tools that a technician can need is an electric impact gun. They are very handy and powerful tools. An impact wrench operates by spinning up an electric motor, and then linking the motor to the output shaft momentarily. This brings about a quick impact force to proceed out the shaft to the connected attachment. This lets these strong tools to twist out mounting bolts, and loosen nuts and bolts that would normally require a long time with hand tools.

There are numerous kinds of electric impact guns. You can get anything from a cordless impact gun to a corded impact wrench. Obviously the cordless impact gun has the advantage of operating from of a battery, and being extremely portable. It is a great tool to put in the toolbox if you work a mobile service, or even in the event you just require an impact wrench when you are out playing in the mountains.

A corded impact gun, on the other hand, offers the benefit of not having to fret about rather or not your electric batteries are fully charged. Imagine the timing if your battery quits on you half of the way through your work, and you don't have an extra. This essentially places you back in to the identical position which you had been in before you decided to buy the tool.

The last, most popular variety of impact gun, is air operated. These are actually the most common, but they actually call for a lot more maintenance than an electric variation. They also call for a continuous supply of pressurized air. An impact wrench may use lots of air, and it usually requires a pretty good air compressor to maintain that air flow rate to support the tool.

Irregardless of rather you pick the corded or cordless electric impact wrench or perhaps even an air impact gun, this tool buy is one which you will not likely regret. Just make certain you don't purchase bargain-priced models. Get a good quality version and you are going to get decades of use, and save your self from receiving quite a few bloody knuckles.

Web Site Revenue - A Few Easy Do It Yourself Tools for Any Business

As resource strapped small businesses look for ways to expand their market without expanding their payroll, generating more web site revenue shows a very quick return on investment.

Around the year 2000 the great internet land rush was in full effect. It seemed as though every small business owner was being told they needed a website. So, a lot of them got one... What next?

The good news was that there were many fewer web sites out there, and it was much easier to get found. Just like the traditional yellow pages, the goal was to have the "door swing" and the "phone ring". Website revenue was going to be the life saver for small businesses who found they were spending too much time working in their business than building their business.

My favorite story from this time was an auto body shop who signed up with one of our former companies to have an e-commerce site developed. No, I'll admit, we had some relatively aggressive sales people, and the truth is they didn't know the first thing about the realities of website revenue generation.

So, the auto body guy who was also a distributor for a line of wheels and accessories got so excited by the prospects of his new revenue generating web site that he actually hired a new receptionist to man the phones. This was of course 3 months before delivery, so one has to question his whole decision making process.

What this story illustrates is the "build it and they will come" mentality that was pervasive in the early days of the small business internet.

Guess what. They didn't come.

But, back then a few simple techniques would have made a lot of difference. Back before the search engines got smart all it took was having a little text on your pages and good "keywords" -- to this day I hear people suggest all you have to do is make sure you have the right keywords in your meta tags, but that's another story.

Really though, keyword stuffing worked... for a while.

These days though, if you really want to have your web site generate revenue it takes much more work.

Any good internet marketing company will tell you that what are referred to as "on page factors" only account for 20-30% of your ranking. As the search engines got smarter (thanks in part to a lot of Stanford PHDs), the need for good off-site promotion of your revenue generating web site became critical.

Examples of great ways to build off-page factors are:

• Link baiting - the practice of creating interesting content just so people will link to it


• Blog and News group posting - ONLY do this if you have something real to say!


• Article creation and submission - again, make it worth reading


• And, the old favorite: Link Exchange - this of course is losing value, and like Blog and News postings should be limited to those site with whom you really have a common thread


• Finally, News Releases - and again, keep it real

So in summary, if you want to generate web site revenue, it's critical to be realistic and recognize that the same things that worked 6 years ago don't work today.

Good content, both onsite and off are critical to a revenue generating web site. Some of the revenue generating tools are discussed above, but a full discussion of how to generate web site revenue should include affiliate marketing, pay per click advertising and even off-line marketing.

You can build it, but if you don't tell them about it they will NEVER come.

Automotive Equipment and Tools For The Automotive Industry

The automotive equipment industry deals with the production of every kind of tool and machinery that is needed for the manufacture, maintenance and repair of vehicles including cars and car parts. As such, the industry produces several different varieties of equipment starting from basic hand tools to more complex machinery.

Different Kinds of Automotive Equipment

Automotive workshops and garages will be unable to function without automotive equipment. Shop furniture, lifts, exhaust hoses, air compressors, lubrication equipment, electric and light reels, jacks, vehicle servicing equipment, fluid storage tanks and trans-air piping are some of the many different types of automotive equipment that are used by automotive manufacturing and automotive repair businesses.

Common Types Of Automotive Equipment

* Hand Tools: Automotive repair shops use several different types of hand tools for their repair and maintenance projects. Some of the commonest items include ratchet sets and wrench sets, crowbars (also known as pry bars), socket sets, screwdrivers, star and clutch-head drivers, hammers, pliers and wire cutters, electric drills, hacksaws and torque wrenches.

* Pneumatic Tools: Most automotive workshops now use pneumatic tools as an alternative to electricity powered motors because the latter is more prone to fire hazards. Such tools are powered by compressed air and are high powered versions of the more traditional hand tools. Common examples of pneumatic automotive equipment include air compressors that can be used to power a variety of tools including hammers, drills, ratchets and spraying tools.

* Availability of pneumatic equipment makes it easier for mechanics and technicians to undertake repair and maintenance work because they are powerful and easy to use. For example, a set of pneumatic shears can cut through sheet metal at a faster rate and leave behind a smoother edge when compared to traditional tin snips. Similarly, air hammers outfitted with chisel or punch bits have multiple uses. They can they be used for straightening dents. The chisel feature can be used to break rusted parts loose and the punch bits can be used to remove old rivets and bolts that are too difficult to take out by hand.

* Lifts: several different kinds of lifting equipment are used to lift and secure cars so that mechanics and repair persons can easily work under the vehicle. These lifting tools include both low-tech tools such as basic floor jacks, car ramps and jack stands as well as hydraulic lifts and floor jacks for better efficiency and performance.

* Vehicle Exhaust Removal Systems: vehicle exhaust removal systems are used to capture and remove harmful exhaust fumes to insure optimal air quality in automotive maintenance and repair facilities. These are mandatory equipment as per OSHA Standards in order to limit exposure to harmful vehicular emissions. Common vehicle exhaust removal systems include hose drops as well as reels.

* Lubrication Systems: Automotive lubrication systems include several different types of oil meters, ATF meters, gear lube meters, dispense valves and grease dispenses valves.

The Automotive equipment business is a very large and competitive business. Automotive repair businesses must buy equipment from reputable dealers for the best deals and performance levels.

Auto Mechanics Curriculum - Preparing for the Job of the Future

While taking driver's education class in high school, for part of the curriculum, a man insisted his daughter take a basic auto mechanics class. They fought for weeks about this class. It was unnecessary. It was ridiculous. After all, she was a girl. After much verbal sparring, she took the class and enjoyed it, using her knowledge many times.

Years later, it became clear why the man wanted his daughter to take this class. Someday, her car would break down. The auto club would not always be able to come to her aid. Roadside assistance is not always available. Especially when the breakdown occurs in the middle of the desert. A person could wait hours for help. That could be dangerous. It was important to know how to fix the basics on her own.

When she became a parent, and her teenage daughter was ready to learn to drive, it was their turn to fight about taking the class. The mother insisted and her daughter relented. As it turns out, after much arguing, the student really enjoyed it. Since she did not have a "head" for business, or fashion, or mathematics, or English, or any other subject for that matter, it seems the one thing she excelled at was fixing cars.

After taking all of the basic classes the school had to offer, the student's instructor suggested a transfer to the local high school that offered full vocational technical programs. The transfer took place, and for the next two years she took a number of classes like basic tune-ups and trouble-shooting, tire rotation and balancing, transmission repair, engine repair, fluid transfers for oil changes and transmission fluid, and air conditioning, among others. Upon graduation from high school, the student became a licensed auto mechanic.

For this young lady, that was not enough. She wanted to specialize in foreign cars. That required a whole new set of classes. Thus began her enrollment in the local college vo-tech. Another two years and she earned her A.S. Degree in Auto Mechanics. She was able to fix anything on wheels. However, as with any industry, evolution takes place. The new hybrid vehicles are already on the market, and the electric car is just around the corner. She continues with her education to maintain the high level of expertise necessary for the cars of the future.

Auto mechanic classes can help a student with their future. To become a mechanic, one must learn problem-solving skills. Mechanics is a process. So is life. One cannot put gas in a car that has no engine. Such is the same with life. One step at a time.

For students that struggle in school, vo-tech classes and auto mechanic classes have historically been extremely challenging. Their opportunities for success were once unlike the mother and daughter that both took auto mechanics classes and flourished.

Auto Repair - Beware of Skeezy Technicians

Taking your car to the mechanic can be a frustrating experience. Most people no little if anything about car repair, leaving them at the mercy of the mechanic. While many mechanics are reputable professionals, there are also many who pull quick scams in order to make a fast buck and keep your car coming back for repairs indefinitely. Here are some common auto repair scams to keep a look out for the next time you bring your car in for a service.

Not Doing the Job
Many auto mechanics simply can't get the job done right. While no mechanic is perfect and sometimes fixing a problem takes a bit of trial and error, others simply don't perform the required auto repairs. Look for auto shops with good customer service policies such as warranties and free estimates. It's also wise to ask the mechanic to show you what was done and explain it to you. If you're having a new part installed, ask to receive the old part along with the packaging for the replacement to ensure you got what you paid for.

Extra Work
You brought your car in for a tune up and ended up with an outrageous bill. Some auto repair con artists will try and convince you that they performed necessary and important repairs without your express permission. No repair should be performed without consulting the owner first. You should also get everything in writing. Be wary of charges that greatly exceed the estimate as well.

Premium Prices
Many auto repair shops have a "don't ask, don't tell" policy when it comes to the type of parts they order. They often choose the most expensive, and most people are so clueless about cars that they agree. The internet gives you a cheap and fast way to shop around for prices. Ask what part is needed and then do a search on your own before having the repair done. You may bring in the part yourself and just pay for the labor if you find a better price. You can also ask to have a used part instead of a new part.

Multiple Estimates
Some people are so desperate to get their cars back on the road that they drop them off at the first auto repair shop they find. This can put a huge dent in your wallet. Visit two or three different shops and you're likely to find great discrepancies in the prices, possibly even by hundreds of dollars. You're also likely to get different opinions on what repairs need to be performed.

Unnecessary Repairs
Sometimes scam artist auto repair mechanics will try and convince you that you need extra repair work done. While some may be legitimate suggestions, it's good to check around and see how often certain parts should be changed. It's also good to keep records of all your repairs and tune-ups so you can check to see what has been performed recently. If you just had your air filter replaced and you find a shop owner is insistent you need a new one, time to find a new mechanic.

Find Auto Repair Shops to Fit Your Needs

When you are looking for a local Tacoma auto repair shop you want to make sure you are finding someone who knows what they are doing and someone who is trustworthy. This might sound easy but actually it is a hard combination to find.

The vehicles being made today are complex. They have intricate circuit boards and electronics that cars made even ten years ago did not have. In order for the modern mechanic to be able to work on them he has to invest in supplemental education and tools. While the basic premise of how an automobile works is the the exact same as it has always been there are many other "details" auto repair shops must be keenly aware of to get the job done.

Here is what you need to do in order to make sure you find the right auto repair shop that will find your needs.

Find A Shop That Specializes in Your Car

This is not always possible but if you can bring your car to a shop that specializes in what your car is. In every major city, like the Seattle-Tacoma, Wa area, there are shops that focuses on one particular type of car. There are ones that strictly work on Toyota, Honda, Land Rovers, German vehicles, etc.

If possible and if practically bring your car to them. Like many specialists they will charge more than general auto repair shops. But once you factor in that they will take a shorter period of time diagnosing and fixing the problem it will in fact be cheaper and you will know for sure that the job was done 100% correct.

See If The Auto Repair Shop is Part of Any Organizations

There are many mechanic shops out there and I personally would like to take my vehicle to someone who is part of the Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce. When they are part of these organizations there is some sort of oversight and standards. If you feel you get taken advantage of you can make a formal complaint and the company will be forced to explain itself.

These places also allow you to also check reviews and see what the history of a company has been.

Ask for Pricing Beforehand

Do not always go for the cheapest person. Expect to pay reasonable amounts for good work. Make sure any work you get comes with a warranty though. But, you should be explained exactly what an auto repair shop charges. This includes the hourly rate and how much they charge for parts. It is standard for a shop to mark up their parts 10-20%. It is one of the ways they make money. I do not know of a shop that does not do that but they should at least be honest about doing it and explain to you what their method is for doing it.

Cracked Windshield - Repair It Fast To Prevent Further Damage

In the past when a car windshield is damaged or cracked, you had to have it replaced. This was what the law states and there was hardly anything else to do when you have this problem. Nowadays, things are completely different as the auto glass repair shops can use a brand-new resin on minor cracks in order to seal it and prevent any more damage. Naturally, this will be less expensive than replacing the entire windshield and most insurance firms will cover the repair.

Even though it might be more affordable and much better to take your vehicle to one of the repair shops than to do a full replacement, it is important to understand that looking after even the tiniest crack or chip must be done immediately. During the warm and cold weather the temperatures will seriously affect the windshield and cause further damage which may not be obvious right away. During the cold months, windshield glass will twist in a concave direction, which means that any kind of crack will start to spread horizontally, even when there is absolutely no other kind of pressure on the auto glass. The warm weather will have the opposite effect and could cause the cracks to spread up and down.

When a crack reaches certain size, the glass repair shop may have no option but to suggest a complete replacement. Throughout several states, the insurance can still take care of a 100% of the price. There are some down sides to getting a complete replacement even if it's included in insurance.

Once you have to search for a repair shop, you should not limit your research to companies which provide free offers to get your business. Even though, there is absolutely nothing wrong with bonuses, you have to ensure that you are working with a competent and trustworthy company. Conduct some research to know about the track record of a company and check to see what other consumers are saying in the reviews online.

What Is Paintless Dent Removal?

Paintless dent removal is a good idea for those who have minor dents or dings they want to remove from their vehicle. It doesn't require major body work, and in most cases you can have your car back in as little as a day as opposed to several days to weeks with major body work. The cost is also much lower since the overhead is lower. There are some instances where paintless dent removal isn't possible. If you have a simple dent you want to have pulled out, here are a few things to consider.

How It Works

A technician that has been trained to use specialized tools will work on the dent locally. This means a dented door doesn't need to be removed. In most cases they will access the dent from the other side by going through a window opening or removing the door panel. The dent is then worked on from the inside, and pressed back out. It sounds simple, but it requires skill and patience. The technician needs to have experience in this so that they don't push the dent out too far or damage the surrounding paint. It is something you can do at home, but it's not suggested.

When Paintless Dent Removal is Feasible

Even large dents can be fixed with this method as long as the paint has not been shattered or cracked. If you have had previous body damage repaired in the area, this method may not work. Dents that are close to the edge of a panel are also difficult to repair with this method. The most common application for this method is door dents, dents on the hood or trunk, and dents on the roof. Hail damage can be repaired with this method, but it's a more lengthy process.

Benefits of Paintless Dent Removal

Paintless dent removal is advantageous for several reasons. For one, it's approved by most insurance companies. This means if you have damage that is covered by your auto insurance, you can get it repaired with this method and get your car back much faster. Since nothing is being replaced or removed, the vehicle will retain its factory value as well. You don't need to report body damage when you sell the vehicle. The dent won't need to be repainted or bonded in any way. When a vehicle is damaged and needs paint touch up on just a small area, it's very hard to match the color. Even if they use a color provided by the manufacturer, this doesn't take in to account the wear and tear the current paint job has, and can still stand out and be very noticeable. The turn around is also much faster. With traditional body repair you may have to relinquish your vehicle to the shop for several days, weeks for larger repairs. Paintless dent removal can be done in just a few hours and you can get your car back on the same day in many cases. Of course you want to call ahead to see what kind of schedule the technicians have, as this could hold up the process a bit. If you have to come out of pocket for the repair you will enjoy savings with paintless dent removal over traditional body work.

Performance Auto Parts - Some Great Parts To Really Increase Your Horse Power!

There are many great ways to increase horse power and, of course, the more horse power you have, the faster your cars going to go and the better pick up you're going to have.

Today, our performance auto experts will give you some great tips and tricks increasing hp, acceleration and speed!

Cold Air Intake

This one of is a classic, a cold air intake. A cold air intake can help your car's horse power by improving cold air input into the engine, this allows the engine to run better and smoother, and usually gives your car some added hp and pick up.

Cold air intakes are relatively inexpensive and can really make a huge difference when it comes to your cars speed.

Intercoolers

An intercooler, or a great radiator, can have a huge benefit when it comes to the way the cars running and cooling down the engine fast so that it can run more smoothly. Intercoolers can really help a lot when it comes to engine power and really make for a great cold air flow into the engine.

Exhaust

The exhaust can make a huge difference when it comes to the speed of the car and overall acceleration. Also, a great exhaust can make your car sopund great which is a huge plus!

Making The Car Lighter

By making the car lighter, you can really increase speed and acclertion. This is really an easy one, but a lot of people forget to do this or just don't even bother. Bypassing this step is not a good idea when it comes to making your car truly faster and giving it much better pick up. By making the car lighter you can really make a huge difference and it's quite easy!

Turbo Kits

Turbo kits can of course be excellent ways to speed up your car, and they can really make a huge difference. The thing about turbo kits is that they're relatively expensive and they can be high maintenance. While they are great, there's many other, easy ways to make your car much faster.

By improving the horse power, acceleration, speed and handling of your car you can really make a huge difference and make some incredible improvements to your ride. Having the best parts as well as the know how to do so is always great and can help you improve your car and to get a lot more speed much faster than you ever thought possible!

Repair a Soft Roof Convertible Car - How to Do It?

You can save money if you repair a soft roof yourself. If you read this article, you probably own a convertible and are aware that soft roofs can be quite fragile. They can get ripped by the weather conditions or even vandals. Your first instinct will be to take your car to a professional, but the repair can be expensive and your car will be immobilized for few days.

The instructions below will help you fix your roof top yourself for less than £7.

Things you need:

• With this procedure you DO NOT need any patch.


• A cloth to clean and dry the surface that needs to be fixed.


• A waterproof fabric glue. I suggest you use Stormsure adhesive. It is easy to use, works on almost all surfaces, is waterproof, abrasion resistant and it stays flexible after drying.

How to proceed to repair your soft roof?

First, you must find out where is the damage. Sometimes, the leak or the hole will be obvious. If not, take your car to the car wash, stay inside and determine where the water comes from.

Second, you must clean and dry the roof top.

Third, Stick a piece of tape on the inside of the soft roof. The tape will hold the two sides of the rip together.

Then, on the other side of the soft roof, apply a thin layer of Stormsure adhesive on the rip.

Finally, let it dry overnight. And voila. It is ready.

How to take care of your roof top

You can prevent damage on your soft roof by:

Following the manufacturer's manual. Most people do not read it. You should protect the roof top from ultraviolet, liquid and dirt. The best way to do it is to use a chemical with a fluorocarbon repelling system. You will find several good product on-line.

So, Your Starter Is Just Clicking

Does you starter make a *click* sound when you try to start your vehicle?

Each time you turn the ignition switch to start, does the starter just *click* one time?

That is probably the starter solenoid.

If it goes, *click-click-click-click*, and so on, it may just be a low battery.

A low battery that makes the starter *click* a few times doesn't have enough *juice* in it to turn the starter over to turn the flywheel over to turn the crankshaft over to make the engine start...phew!

A simple way to tell if the battery is at fault is to turn the headlights on and turn the ignition switch to start.

If the lights go out, then the battery is probably at fault.

Course, you'll have to run real fast after you hit the start position in order to see if the lights go out...or have someone out there watching for you.:-)

You can purchase a small inexpensive battery charger at most malls, or parts store.

The best way to use a *trickle* chargers is to charge the batter all night, or all day, whichever pleases you.

You can try charging the battery. If it runs down again, then you need to do something.

Remove the battery terminals from the battery post, if you have the *post* type, and clean the post and the inside of the cable clamp.

If you have the side mount just loosen the 8mm bolt and clean the terminal where it comes into contact with the battery. Clean the part on the battery, too. :-)

Sometimes the battery will build up a lot of corrosion on the outside of the cable clamp.

When this happens, usually, the inside part of the clamp and post will create a hard metallic-like surface.

This stops the flow of electricity from the alternator to the battery.

When you use the battery's reserve, it's gone, no more being put in.

If the vehicle does crank, it will run off the alternator, which ain't good. :-(

If cleaning the post and recharging the battery doesn't solve the problem, you may need a new one.

Don't run to the nearest *convenience store* and buy a battery.

Take your battery to a place that sells batteries and have it checked.

If it is gone to where old dead batteries go, then you will have to purchase a new one.

You may have other problems...like the alternator; the tension on the alternator belt... several things could make the battery be low...did you leave the parking lights on when you parked, to go shopping? :-)

Auto Body Repair Estimates Demystified - The 5 Most Common Items on a Repair Estimate

So you've decided to get an estimate from a local body shop. These days, most body shops will use a computerized estimating software to write your estimate. If the shop you have chosen does not use a computer to write your estimate that should be cause for concern. This is not meant as a jab at those long time owners and technicians and I am not implying they are "backward" or "luddites" or ignorant. Its more for accountability. Computerized software is now standard in our industry and insures a more uniform, unbiased and accurate appraisal for how long things take to repair. For instance, I was talking to a shop owner just a couple days ago who was remembering with fondness the good old days when he would routinely get 15+ labor hours to repair frames on cars that nowadays he only gets 4-5 hours on. The truth is however that 4-5 is the more accurate and fair rate (depending on the job of course it could be more or less). And since consumers and insurance companies are billed by the hours on an estimate the old days of falsely inflating hours are gone.

When it comes to auto body repair the vast majority of line items on an estimate will be one of 5 things:

1. R & I. This is shorthand for "remove and install" and means to take something off your car and then to re-install it later. Parts that are not damaged may need to be temporarily removed to access another part that was damaged or more often so the panel it is taken off of can painted properly. For instance, say your electric motor for your window stops working. The interior trim panel will need to be temporarily removed for to gain access to the motor to see if it can be repaired (not likely!) or replaced. Or perhaps a molding needs to be removed from your door before it is painted only to be put back on later when the paint dries. One caution here is that if panels are being painted and you're not being charged for R & I the shop may be taping them up which can actually cause peeling or flaking months or years later. So don't be surprised if for instance a headlight needs to be removed to properly paint a fender. You should actually be more concerned if its not. FYI: R & I times are typically set to industry standards by estimating software and are not discretionary.

2. Repair. Repair (aka 'Rpr') is the most discretionary item on an estimate and typically the amount of time it takes to repair something will be underlined or asterisk-ed (*) to indicate this. This is where an insurance adjuster might say a dent will take 3 hours to fix and a technician might say it will take 4. There's no hard and fast rule here and this needs to be negotiated between insurance adjusters, shop estimators and possibly even the technicians doing the job. My dad who has been in the industry almost 40 years taught me a long time ago that a dent which is about the size of a man's fist should take about 3 hours to repair. From there you can adjust up or done for various things like a body line that runs through the dent (add an hour) or the dent has no creases and is accessible from the inside and therefore can be mostly popped out (subtract time). The reason these times are so important is that insurance companies are paying shops based on the number of hours on the estimate.

3. Replace. Replacing parts, sometimes shorthanded to 'repl,' is not a discretionary item on an estimate and is governed by industry standards or what shop folks call "book time." If the book/software says it takes 3.5 hours to replace that bumper then that is what the insurance company will pay. No more and no less. It is pretty well standardized with only slight variations depending on which software is used and then it only differs by very little.

4. Sublet. Sometimes there are things that an auto body shop will send to someone else (typically a mechanic who takes care of more under the hood items) to perform and this is categorized as sublet. Popular things for shops to sublet out are air conditioner recharging and 4 wheel alignments when the suspension is damaged. The reason this is sent out typically is that the equipment and space required for these operations are not cost effective for a body shop. And when it comes to deeper engine repair, oil and paint don't mix! Oil and grease can quickly ruin a paint job. So, shops that say they can do "everything" typically can't do everything well.

5. Miscellaneous. Under this category will go small charges like "hazardous waste removal" (about once a month we pay someone to pick up and dispose of our hazardous waste in the safest way possible) and "car cover for overspray" which pays for paper, tape and plastic to cover the vehicle during the painting process so paint over spray doesn't go all over the windows or adjacent panels.

What Are You Using to Stop Your Car?

It's important to know which brake pads are best for you, considering that they are only the most vital system on your automobile. A lot relies on the hard work they constantly perform for you. Sometimes taken for granted, they could potentially save your life, and the life of your family. So what is it that we're actually buying when we purchase a set of brakes for our vehicles? There are 4 basic types of brake materials: semi-metallic, non-asbestos organic, low-metallic NAO and ceramic.

4 Types of Brake Pads:

1. Semi-metallic - Semi-metallic brake pads generally consist of anywhere between 30 to 65 percent metal material which may include steel wool bits or wire, iron powder, graphite or copper mixed with inorganic fillers, and friction modifiers that hold that whole recipe together. This is the most common type of brake pad and for years the majority of automobiles used this type of friction material due to their durability. Another positive is their superior brake heat transfer capabilities. However, they tend to wear down brake rotors quickly, have noise issues, and don't always perform as well till they are warmed up.

2. Non-asbestos organic - Typically this type of brake pad is simply known as "organic brake pads" or "NAO brake pads" for short. This brake pad material is made from such items as rubber, glass, carbon and Kevlar fibers, with filler materials and high-temperature brake pad resins. Much softer than their semi-metallic counterparts, these brake pads boast lower noise complaints and less wear to each brake rotor. The downfall of these brake pads is that they wear much faster and create a lot of brake dust build-up on the wheels, and they don't stop your car as well.

3. Low-metallic NAO - As the name suggests, these pads are made from an organic compound mixed with minimal amounts of copper or steel. Generally they contain more than 10 percent but less than 30 percent metal. The metal in these pads provides better heat transfer and braking distances. However, this also makes the pads noisier than their organic counterparts, but not quite as dusty.

4. Ceramic - Growing more and more popular on today's vehicles, these brake pads are put together with ceramic fibers, a variety of bonding and filler materials and sometimes even small amounts of metal. No two compositions are exactly alike except for the fact that they contain a ceramic material. Ceramic brake pads are create the least brake dust, are quiet brake pads, and offer the best braking characteristics without wearing down the rotors like the other braking compounds. These brakes don't brake as well until they are warmed up.

The brake system is the most important safety feature on your vehicle. Talk with your auto mechanic about which brake pad will work best for you. However inconvenient it may be to have them checked, it would be much more inconvenient if they failed. Whenever uncertain about your automobile, have a qualified automotive technician check it out. Your life and your family's life ride on it.

Window Tinting - How to Make More Money Tinting Car Windows

Here are 3 tips that will help anyone who wants to start a successful window tinting business.

TIP 1: To increase your level of income in window tinting you need to be willing to risk going out on your own. Rather than having your skills at the service of an auto-body shop that dictates your hourly wage, why not try to tint windows on your off hours and keep the entire service charge for yourself? If you currently work with a local mechanic or in an auto customization service center, don't quit your day job just yet! Your employment offers you steady work as you try to venture out on your own. Consider your venture a safe experiment. Try to take on a couple of jobs during your non-work hours such as weekends or after work.

TIP 2: You already have the skill, and you might already have a client base! Ask family members, friends, or even friends of friends if you can tint their car windows. Offer a lower rate than what they will find at a service shop. Let them know of your day job so they are assured of your skill, experience and expertise. Then try to get more work through referrals. This is when the next step of your "safe experiment" begins. You must learn how to market and promote yourself. As you gain a few satisfied customers among family and friends, ask them if they would be willing to spread the word about your available tinting services.

TIP 3: As you develop a personal client space by doing evening and weekend work, let people know how you are able to offer a tinting rate that is lower than most commercial shops. You have no employees except for yourself, you may not have to worry about commercial lease prices, and your liability is lower.

What you want to do is keep your prices lower than the competition, keep your service excellent and ensure that your strategic marketing enables people to find out about you. All of this is the key toward becoming successfully self-employed in the window tinting industry.

Get That Cracked Windshield Repaired

Almost all rock chips and cracks can be repaired. Allowing safe driving behind the repaired windshield is the number one goal of windshield repair tech. The second goal is to prevent further cracking and to reduce glare that distracts the driver and creates safety issues.

Windshield repair is inexpensive compared to windshield replacement. Repair eliminates problems associated with replacement such as leaking, wind whistle or windshield failure due to airbag deployment. This can and always has been a real problem when windshields are not installed to original equipment manufacture Specifications by trained windshield replacement technicians.

Windshield chip and crack repair technicians need training to perform quality repairs that look good and make the windshield safe again by returning structural integrity. Some windshield repairs look bad and should be scrutinized as possible windshield failure or cracking could occur and require replacement of the windshield. Bad repairs are common when improper techniques are used.

Anyone can put a drop of resin on a chipped windshield and call it repaired. Improper repairs such as dropping resin, will almost always fail. Proper technique requires removal of moisture and air that entered the chip/crack upon impact or over time. Removal of moisture and air requires that the chip/crack be put in a vacuum to remove air and moisture, This requires specialized windshield repair equipment such as injectors capable of applying a strong vacuum for this purpose and able to inject windshield resin properly for a complete repair.

Proper windshield repair takes a little time. First the injector/vacuum unit must be properly placed over the chip/crack. By placing the unit in vacuum mode the moisture and air can be removed from the chip/crack. Setup procedures and vacuum stages take about 10 minutes each unless lots of moisture remains in the crack where upon requiring the heating of the windshield glass to the proper temperature to vaporize the moisture. This allows the vacuum to remove any remaining water vapor. (This can take up to 20 minutes.)

Second the injector must now be prepared to inject the resin into the chip/crack to begin the windshield repair. The injector needs to be placed in injection mode and then cycled between injection mode and vacuum mode until resin fills the chip/crack completely.

Third after resin injection is complete a Plastic Mylar cover patch is applied with pit filler if needed.

Forth curing is required to harden the resin. The time it takes will vary depending on temperature and normally will take about 5 to 7 minutes and then excess resin is removed using a razor blade and the area is polished to optical quality.

At this point if the repair is done properly all is good if not done properly you are stuck with a big problem as once the windshield has been repaired you can't fix that same spot again. Repairs must be done right the first time. With proper care you will never have any issues with that repair spot again.

The Right Car Key Programmer for You

Today, in this article I would like to talk about car key programmers. They are widely used in cars for it can work easily without being connected to a PC. This feature enables the repair men and technicians to take the vehicle easily. The AD 90 key duplicator has been especially designed to be compatible with various types of transponder car keys. This car key programmer can easily update softwares from the internet. It can also identify and copy any type the transponder code. It is composed of the latest electronic components in the field of radio frequencies. Hence, it can easily identify cryptographic transponder codes.

AD90 is a powerful car key programmer. It has been developed in such a way that it can always keep itself updated with the future developments taking place in the technology of transponders. This indeed is a very unique feature. This makes AD90 one of the best car key programmers of the future. It can be used with the chip decoder system. It can identify, read, and clone Texas, Philips, Temic and Megamos transponders. It is available online for $151.87 approximately. You can also check it out in local automobile stores. You can search for it online too. Moreover, you can compare it with several other car programmer keys before making the purchase. You can read the reviews before proceeding to buy it.

Another key programmer worth trying is the HITAG-2 key tool kit. It is designed to fit various brands of cars. It works well with most of the cars like Audi A8, Land Rover, Bentley Continental, Porsche etc. With the help of this programming device you can read and program the internal key memory of the car. It is very simple to use. All you need to do is to first clear your immobilizer. Next, put your transponder or the new key on the programmer. You will instantly get a new key generated. This programmer is fast, accurate, and will cost you $76.12 approximately.

I would also like to recommend the Transponder Key Programmer as I find it really simple yet effective. It can automatically read, write, and identify various keys from different auto chips. It is also compatible with 93, 11, 73, 13, 53, 33, and 4C keys. Encryption for T5 keys can also be performed by it. It does not need any sort of adaptation as it can directly start the engine. This indeed is a special feature.

It is not a bad idea to try one of these car key programmers especially the universal AD90 programmer.

Auto Dealer Service Department is Better Than Local Garage

The repair costs of automobiles have increased tremendously. So, it is necessary to be cautious while making a decision of selecting a garage or a authorised service department. A lot of money is wasted, if the mechanic has not done his job properly. Every owner of a car prefers local garages for small repair work.

Local garages are the most inexpensive, fast, and convenient mode of service than auto dealer services. Hence, people mainly opt for these garages. The main reason for the high expenses of auto dealer is that the manufacturer has to pay a huge amount for running the service department. Moreover, the technicians in the authorised centres are paid high salaries, as they are highly skilled and trained by the manufacturer.

The biggest advantage of the auto dealers is the specially trained mechanics. These employees are paid high salaries along with incentives to retain them. They in turn offer best services to their customers and do quality work. These departments are the best option for complicated problems in the car.

Mechanics at the auto dealers department get specialized training from the manufacturer related to the car. Sometimes they also get training related to the specific model of the car. They are provided with an opportunity of attending refresher training courses organized by the manufacturer.

A mechanic, at a small local garage, repairs cars of all models and types. They may not be able to identify the specific problems of a car. However, the specially trained mechanic, who is with an auto dealer, can easily identify the problem of the specific car and easily repair it.

Auto dealers authorised centres also provide services such as giving you rental cars, if it is taking a lot of time for repair works. There are service advisors at the service department who provide the maintenance schedule. These maintenance schedules are prepared in accordance with the services offered by the auto dealer service department.

These centres also offer you different warranty for their work. The car will be serviced free of charge, if it is under warranty. They also offer additional warranty on specific repair works and are aware of the manufacturing defects inherent in your car. These mechanics can also easily recall the previous problems of the car and sort them out.

Auto dealer department offers the best quality services to its customer. They are under the constant pressure of the manufacturers. If they don't provide better services, the customers can give complain about it to the manufacturer. Based on these complaints, the manufacturer can take action on the service departments. Thus, they try to provide commercial standards of service and maximum customer satisfaction.

There are many local garages available everywhere. The service departments are at particular locations. You can opt for a nearby garage for small repair works. It's highly recommended to refrain from opting for local garages to save money for complicated repairs involved in cars. Visit a service department for complicated repair works.

Brake Repair - Common Symptoms of Bad Brakes

Taking care of your automobile is important. In order to get by, thousands of Americans rely on motor vehicle transport each and every day. Consequently, auto repair and maintenance becomes a high priority for everyone. If you want to keep your car in excellent working condition, it is wise to adopt a routine maintenance schedule. Plan out which parts of your car you plan on having inspected. In doing so, you can effectively budget your auto maintenance without slipping into debt. Brake repair and inspection should always be a part of your maintenance plan, as they are a vital and important part of your car's safety.

You should get brake inspections done routinely to ensure maximum reliability. Usually, it's suggested to have your brakes inspected at least twice a year. However, if you begin to notice problems or signs of wear, it's important to have your brakes inspected as soon as possible. Don't let a simple trip to the auto-mechanic stop you from keeping you and your family safe. Finding a reliable and consistent mechanic you can trust will make the experience easier. Visiting the same mechanic frequently allows the mechanic to orient himself better with your car, providing more extensive and effective service. However, a trip to the mechanic can be avoided by noticing early signs of deterioration.

There are many common signs of wear that you can detect by yourself. First of all, it's important to pay attention to the brake light on your instrument panel. If this light appears with a red or amber glow, it may indicate problems with your anti-lock braking system. Irritating or scratchy grinding sounds are caused by the failure of your brake pads. These can be easily replaced. A low, spongy pedal is the cause of air located in the car's hydraulic system. If you can pick up on these issues yourself, it will become a lot easier to save time and money by resolving the issue before permanent or more serious damage is done.

If not properly maintained, worn brakes can become a hazardous safety issue. Not only can the failure of your brakes lead to massive damage to your car or truck, it could ultimately be responsible for serious injury. In the event of an emergency stop, the rotors and drums that operate the brake can become over-stressed and break. A failure means you won't be able to stop your car. If a failure occurs during operation of the vehicle, your car is suddenly a hazard to you and everyone else on the road. Don't put yourself in a dangerous situation like this.

Your brakes are one of the most important working parts of your car, and their function is vital to your safety. If they need replacing or maintenance, don't delay in getting them inspected. Responding in time can be the difference between personal injury and preventing an accident. Pay attention to the helpful early prevention methods detailed above in order to detect issues as soon as possible and keep your car in a safe working condition.

How to Fix Your Own Cracked Windshield Fast and Cheap

Your neighborhood auto parts and big box department stores all carry cool little windshield repair kits that are supposed to fix a small rock chip or star damage. They're cute little do-it-yourself kits, that run you about $19, and reading the directions on the plastic wrapped packing card, it appears that this DYI windshield repair is a no-brainer for anybody.  

Nineteen bucks to invest in fixing a glass part that you have to see through almost every day and also protects your safety from the outside elements when driving, may seem to be a pretty good option for the intuitive backyard repair guy or gal.   If you haven't opened the package yet to start your quest into auto glass repair mechanics, or you found this article in a search to help convince yourself that you can do this; don't open the package! Please put it down now, until you have read this article all the way through.  

Remember your windshield, if it came on the auto new, runs about 500 bucks to replace from the dealership. One from a replacement company that has the same OEM specifications is going to cost you about 100 bucks less, give or take a bone. Even a cheap aftermarket windshield will run 150 bucks. So what are you doing trying to fix a crack or chip in your windshield with a cute little kit from the auto parts store?    

Trying to fix a broken windshield is going to make you feel like; well let's just say, worse than you did before you tried to fix it. Remember, if you broke you eyeglasses, or scratched the lenses, what would you do? You would take them to a specialized person who knows how to fix or replace the lens.  

A quick phone call to your local windshield repair company will save you a weekend and a bunch of money when it comes to fixing windshields. In fact, the scientifically manufactured acrylic resin that is used to fill the damaged area, costs more per ounce than the entire price of the DIY kit.  

The proper injection equipment costs 100s and even 1000s to purchase to produce a great windshield repair.   It takes years for even the best windshield repair technician to learn how to deal with all the problems that come up when repairing laminated windshields. Rock chips and cracks are like snowflakes, each one is uniquely different. Great, reliable windshield repairs take thirty minutes or more and should always be guaranteed for the life of your windshield. This means the repair should not ever allow the chip or crack to progress in severity. The repair should meet or exceed your satisfaction or the work is free. The windshield repair technician should gladly tell you that there will be a slight blemish where the damage was repaired, but that the windshield will be safe when the work is completed.  

If you have comprehensive auto insurance, your provider will, in most cases, reimburse the entire cost of the windshield repair when you turn in your receipt to them. Most states and most companies allow this reimbursement without counting it against you or your deductible. It's like getting the work done for free. So why would you want to do it yourself? To review, the fastest and cheapest do-it-yourself windshield repair is to first pick up the phone, call a great windshield repair service company that guarantees their work. Third, do this as soon as your windshield is hit, and last, pay them between $45 and $75 to get a lifetime repair that you can live with.

How to Take Care of Your Vehicle's Windscreen

Looking after your new windscreen:

Hundreds of windscreens are replaced in capital cities on a daily basis all around the world. A large percentage of windscreen replacements derive from motorists not looking after their windscreen. Almost all windscreens are replaced because they are damaged in one way or another but how many of these could have been avoided? Lets take a look at what we can do to get the longest possible life out of our windscreen.

It doesn't take much to scratch automotive windscreens, one major cause of damage is dirty or damaged wiper blades. Whilst driving around on roads dirt and dust builds up on our car including our wiper blades. Also small rocks and sticks can collect on top of the wiper blades and when it comes time to use them all that debris gets caught under the blades whilst in use and ends up scratching the glass, at times to the point where it becomes difficult to see out of, especially when driving into the sun.

Another major concern is using your wiper blades with a dirty windscreen. You may have took the time to make sure your wipers were free from dirt and rocks but if you don't clean your windscreen on a regular basis then just doing one of these things will be deemed useless. We also need to check every few weeks or so that the blades are still correctly installed. Most wiper arms are made from metal, if the rubber blades are damaged or not fitted correctly, the metal wiper frame could also rub against the glass and leave nasty scratches which can never be removed and leave you with no other option but to replace the whole windscreen.

While keeping your windscreen clean will ensure it will last longer, care must be taken whilst cleaning to not unintentionally scratch the glass. When cleaning your windscreen only ever use window cleaner or warm soapy water and a soft cloth or scratch free sponge. If your windscreen has hard to remove dirt or bugs do not try and scrub it off with a coarse sponge or brush as this will certainly scratch the glass. Instead soak the area with a soft sponge and lightly scrub the area, repeat this as many times as needed. This method is time consuming but you can be confident you wont damage the windscreen.

Stone chips to the windscreen are another common occurrence. Just because a stone has hit your windscreen and damaged it does not mean it needs to be replaced. A lot of the time stone chips can be repaired instead. A qualified technician can insert a specifically formulated resin into the affected area, stop the damaged area from getting worse whilst maintaining the integral strength of the windscreen. Most people don't realise this and leave the stone chipped area unattended, resulting in the damaged area cracking off, spreading all over the windscreen and needing a complete replacement.

Following these easy steps will ensure you will have a defect free windscreen and a safe and enjoyable time whist driving your vehicle.

Boost Your Car's Efficiency With Performance Parts

Performance parts are very useful for your car as it helps to boost the overall performance of your vehicle and transform it completely. Some performance parts are very efficient in nature and they can convert your car into a fuel efficient vehicle. There has always been a growing demand for cars this in turn has paved way to the rise in popularity of the performance parts. Another major reason for the popularity of these parts is that they have the ability to enhance the life of the cars to serve you for a longer period of time.

Several companies are manufacturing these parts and every part is designed in a specific way to suit the diverse requirements of the individuals. They are also designed in such a way that they fit perfectly into most cars. They can be installed easily and there is no need of seeking professional help for it. This way you can save money on installation charges.

While buying performance parts for your car, it is essential to make sure that they are of good quality. They should last long in your car despite of any wear and tear. Always beware that there are fake products available in the markets that are not worth investing. Here we have mentioned some of the most popular types of car performance parts that you may consider buying:

Reusable Air Filters

These high performance air filters last for long due to their reusable nature. This makes sure that the airflow towards your car engine is in a better state, thereby increasing the efficiency of the acceleration pedal. This also improves the horse power of your car and its fuel economy.

Power Chips

This can be used to replace the computer chip in the car and make your car more efficient with great power performance. This aims in improving the horse power and the thrust of your car's engine. By spending some money on this product, you are sure to reap great benefits.

Cold Air Intakes

This is one of the performance parts that work with the airflow filters. It sucks cold air from your car's engine and helps it to perform well. It also increases the horse power of the engine and enhances the sound quality.

Performance Exhausts

It allows your car engine to emit gasses more efficiently and provides the opportunity to utilize its full power. It also boosts the acceleration, torque and the fuel efficiency.

Stock Parts

These parts are easily available and they are used to replace any of the damaged or worn out parts of your car. Usually it is best to opt for the one that is designed by the same brand of your car company as it fuses well and improves the torque, power and life of your car. It is also well designed to keep the fuel emissions below the desired limit thereby making the car perform more effectively.

It is always important to opt for those performance parts that are needed for improving the efficiency of your car. So choose the performance parts, wisely.

Furthering Your Education With a Auto Body Repair School

Careers in the automotive field are very competitive, and Auto Body Repair is no exception. You may hear from people who claim to be "in the know" that you do not need further education after high school to excel in this field, but they are wrong. If cleaning floors and running errands is your idea of a great job, listen to those people. If you are looking to land the highest paying jobs in Auto Body Repair, then you need experience. The only way to gain experience with no prior work in this field is with a Auto Body Repair School.

Lucky for us auto body repair schools can be found nationwide with little effort. They range from 2 year programs at community colleges that incorporate a traditional college curriculum into the trade to dedicated trade schools that teach only auto body repair. My personal preference is the dedicated trade school route. Most schools will divide time equally between theory in the classroom and hands on training in the shop. Some people may argue that hands on training is the only training needed, but that is simply not true anymore. In fact not learning the theory behind some of today's complex automobile systems can be downright dangerous! Complex circuits, high voltage hybrids, and air bag components are just some of the systems that a auto technician will have to encounter in the field that the old "learn from your mistakes" mentality will NOT help you with! The solution to this is simple, learn the information in books first, then apply the new found knowledge in the shop. Here are a few options for you to consider in choosing a Auto Body Repair School.

Lincoln Technical Institute: Lincoln Tech is my first choice for a school, and I am biased because I am a LTI Alumni. Lincoln Tech is a nationwide school with a excellent collision repair program. They teach a systems approach breaking down different parts of repair and then apply the book knowledge in the shop. They are a affiliated with many major auto manufacturers and can provide training specific to a given make or model. They also have promotions with major tool companies to provide tools to students at a discounted rate. They also go by Lincoln College of Technology, and Nashville Auto-Diesel College.

Wyotech: Wyotech's Collision refinishing technology program is also widely known. Branded as the official school tech school of the NHRA this school has no shortages in ties to the motor sports industry. Among others former Xtreme 4x4 host Jessi Combs was a Wyotech grad in their collision repair program. In addition to taking the core curriculum students are allowed to major in specialty areas including trim and upholstery, applied service management, motor sports chassis fabrication, and street rod and custom fabrication.

If you are looking for more then just a focus on auto body repair, then you should look into community colleges offering courses in auto body repair or collision repair.