EvgeniyShkolenko |iStock | GettyImages
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Drawing from personal experiences, Motor Age Technical Editor Brandon Steckler shares some of the highs and lows of working as an automotive technician, including issues with ...
Amir Photo | Shutterstock
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Photo by author
With the expander installed, next install the lower oil scraper ring. This will secure the expander ring, keeping the expander ends butted together. Next install the upper scraper ring. This completes the oil ring package. Be sure to orient the clock positions of the upper and lower scrapers to keep their end gaps far away from each other (90 degrees apart, 180 degrees apart, or whatever orientation specs recommend.
FedPro Tub O' Towels Tool Review
Photo by author
Figure 2- Unfortunately, many technicians don’t realize the impact shotty circuity repairs can have on a diagnosis. Technician-induced faults can be some of the most difficult to find. In this case, at least six additional faults were created due to improper repair.

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Videos

PACKOUT Rack Kit | 48-21-8070 | Assembly and Installation - Wood Wall
In this video, Milwaukee Tool PACKOUT Rack Kit.
Oct. 16, 2025
Toolbox Topics: Snap-on
In this video, PTEN Editor-in-Chief Nadine Battah speaks with Jeff Weiss, Senior Product Manager for Power Tools at Snap-on, about the evolution of cordless ratchets in today&...
Oct. 15, 2025
Service Done Right: Hybrid Prius Won’t Start? Tricky Fix Diagnosed Fast with Repair Information
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Nate Fink diagnoses hybrid battery issue with the ProDemand repair information suite
Oct. 15, 2025
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Five new tools added to Vehicle Service Pros!
Oct. 14, 2025

Podcasts

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ACA's Mark Bodgansky reveals game-changing floor segmentation, buyer engagement strategies, and how to maximize your ROI at this year's show.
Oct. 16, 2025
aftermarket_allaccess_larsen
Learn why ACES and PIES standards are transforming global automotive aftermarket communication and why it matters to aftermarket success.
Oct. 2, 2025
endeavor_to_discover2ambw
In this episode, Mike Jones tells listeners what it takes to be a person who follows up and follows through on commitments in a business setting.
Sept. 4, 2025
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For anyone who has ever uttered the words, "failure isn't an option," Mike Jones, president and master trainer at Discover Leadership Training, has a message you should consider...
Aug. 7, 2025

Parts Distributor

trump
Government argues that the president has broad emergency powers to impose sweeping levies on trading partners.
Oct. 16, 2025
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Mahle is entering the stationary battery storage market by supplying cooling modules designed for containers that support renewable energy and power grid stabilization, leveraging...
Oct. 16, 2025
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Tri-State Enterprises has acquired Bristo Battery and Supply in Lubbock, Texas, expanding its automotive aftermarket offerings and logistical support in West Texas. The new Eagle...
Oct. 16, 2025
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This session provides a comprehensive overview of California's EPR packaging law, covering materials, reduction targets, and compliance steps, with insights from PARTSLIFE and...
Oct. 15, 2025

Tool Distributor

E. Markham
Attendees visiting the Ko-ken booth.
Neu Tool’s 2025 tool fair was held at their new Waukesha, Wisconsin warehouse from September 26-27.
Oct. 8, 2025
Tracy Bourdon truck
Timely updates and reliability can enhance your reputation as a dealer, ensuring customers feel valued and confident in your service.
Oct. 8, 2025
Rowaan's customer base in Niagara includes technicians working with heavy duty and agricultural equipment.
Moving into a new truck can be a slow and frustrating process, but it’s the perfect time to reevaluate your business and make sure you’re on the right track.
Oct. 6, 2025
Photo courtesy of Chuck Trombold
The team and their spouses all rocking t-shirts with Chuck's face printed on them.
This distributor took over his brother-in-law’s route, and plans to pass it on to his sons once he retires.
Oct. 3, 2025

Product Guide

Photo courtesy of Bendpak
Bendpak RWS-200WL Rechargeable Portable Wheel Lift
The BendPak RWS-200WL Battery-Powered Wheel Lift eliminates the physical strain of wheel service, protecting technicians while delivering greater uptime. Unlike air-powered models...
Oct. 14, 2025
XTool HDGURU
The XTool HDGURU offers heavy duty vehicle diagnostics via standard OBD-II protocols, with over 60 bi-directional tests, more than 35 Cummins dedicated functions, and advanced...
Oct. 10, 2025
1/4' Drive 3' Locking Extension, No. 43-24-9300
The Milwaukee Tool 1/4" Drive 3" Locking Extension, No. 43-24-9300, offers control and security in tight applications. The extension features the largest knurling surface on the...
Oct. 10, 2025
ArtiDiag800
The TOPDON ArtiDiag800 features full system diagnostics for 54 vehicle makes and offers 28 service functions for domestic, European, and Asian vehicles newer than 1995. The ArtiDiag800...
Oct. 8, 2025

Service Repair

ase_cert
Three flexible paths to earn and maintain your ASE credentials.
Oct. 15, 2025
ase_wrenchway
A new way for automotive instructors to connect with local shops.
Oct. 15, 2025
donnell
Jonathan Donnell on the challenges of repair complexity and why keeping the spark alive for young techs matters.
Oct. 15, 2025
Photo courtesy of TechForce Foundation
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A student at the NASCAR Technical Institute, Haiden McMurray wants to become a go-to problem solver.
Oct. 13, 2025

Industry News

RLink
The RLink J2534 is compatible with OE software across more than a dozen brands and provides OEM-level diagnostics and programming.
Oct. 15, 2025
aspire_images_50
The PPG MIX'N'SHAKE is designed to eliminate the need to manually stir in the automotive refinish industry.
Oct. 14, 2025
Sonic Tools scholarship
The Sonic Impact Scholarship Program aims to support aspiring technicians by providing them with premium tools stored in Sonic Foam Systems and toolboxes, emphasizing the importance...
Oct. 14, 2025
aspire_images_49
This new product line is designed to support both 6V and 12V units.
Oct. 13, 2025

Technical Service Bulletins

Photo courtesy of Mitchell 1
Detecting excessive female terminal spread can be challenging, especially with micro female terminals. The pin tension gauge simplifies the process by allowing a quick and easy check of female terminals to ensure a secure connection.
Hyundai offers a new special service tool (pin tension gauge) for wire connection inspection.
Oct. 3, 2025
Photo courtesy of Mitchell 1
Detach the four claws to remove the pedal pad.
Some 2018-2021 Lexus LC 500, LC 500h, LS 500 and LS 500h; and some 2021 LC 500c vehicles may exhibit a “spring” noise upon release of the accelerator pedal.
Oct. 3, 2025
Photo courtesy of Mitchell 1
Clean the area and check whether there is moisture underneath the protective sleeve. If there is no moisture in this area, re-assess the complaint and continue evaluating the rest of the brake system. The photo here shows a dry state.
This bulletin applies to 2020-2022 Audi A4 allroad, A4, S4, A5 Cabriolet, A5, A5 Sportback, S5 Cabriolet, S5 and S5 Sportback; and 2021-2022 RS 5 and RS 5 Sportback.
Oct. 3, 2025
Photo courtesy of Acura
When updating software, use i-HDS software version 1.008.024 or later, HDS software version 3.105.028 or later and Honda ECU reprogramming 2.6.0.0 or later.
Under certain circumstances, 2019-2023 Acura RDX and 2021-2023 TLX vehicles may experience drivability concerns.
Oct. 3, 2025

Learning Resources

ID 267167152 © Andrew Angelov | Dreamstime.com
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Sponsored
Discover how your shop can take control of OEM-level repairs with Autel’s J2534 solutions—whether you’re ready to program in-house or prefer certified remote support, this session...
Oct. 16, 2025
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Sponsored
Engine Management diagnostics can be a complicated process, even for the most experienced technicians. Often, parts are replaced unnecessarily, or the root cause of the drivability...
Aug. 21, 2025
autel_ia900_image_from_aspire
Sponsored
Discover how Autel’s revolutionary 2-in-1 IA900 and IA1000 systems are transforming alignment and ADAS calibration into a single, streamlined, revenue-boosting solution for modern...
Oct. 1, 2025
ma6823azac_servicetoptips_thumbnail_cropped
Sponsored
When performing automotive HVAC service, it’s essential to consider all the system components, both inside and outside the vehicle’s cabin. This includes the refrigerant...
Aug. 7, 2025