Shop Press

Shop Press is the news and idea hub for everything related to working on cars and trucks, focusing on repair, technology, and wrenching lifestyle.

From the creative minds at:

FEATURE STORY

Hot Off the Press

Service Writers: Don’t Leave Your Greatest Diag Tool in the Shop

Today’s piece starts with a one-question quiz that’s not a trick question: in your shop, what is your best diagnostic tool? It’s not a meter or a scan tool or a stethoscope, though those all are handy items to have nearby. It’s your technician. And as much as leaving...

Why Your Shop Should Be Using Loaded Knuckles to Save Time and Money

It’s midday on a Friday, and an older-model Subaru rolls into the bay in need of new wheel bearings. In the past, this would have meant a few hours with the shop press, possibly a torch, and maybe some choice words to get the job done. But it doesn’t have to be that...

Use the Little Radiator—and Have Customers Do the Same

Disclaimer: If a car is overheating and it is possible to safely exit the road and stop the car, that should always be the first course of action to avoid the risk of fire. The solution described in this article should only be used where that is not possible. If a car...

PSA: The Right (and Wrong) Ways to Handle Iridium Spark Plugs

For the vast majority of vehicles on the road, swapping out spark plugs is gravy work. Yoink the old plugs, make sure the replacements meet the necessary gap spec, install the new plugs, and button up the ignition system. You’re in and out of there in no time, right?...

Tool Review: Permatex 25240 Thread Locker

Disclaimer: This chemical was purchased at full retail price at the expense of the author, with no compensation from the retailer or manufacturer to write about the item.Be honest: do you always check the manual for the correct grade of factory-recommended sealant on...

Try Doing It the Wrong Way

Today’s article is composed of two quick tips that are distinct and different, but interrelated because they’re used on the same items: the humble fasteners we remove and install hundreds of times daily. These tips are both geared to newer techs since we all must find...

Modern Power Window Switches: Smarter than You’d Think

When was the last time you rolled down the power windows in an older car or truck? I’m talking at least pre-2000. The older, the better. As a passenger, you’ll find that every door has a mix of buttons, switches, locks, and handles to mess around with, plus maybe a...

May Automotive Horoscopes

by | May 11, 2023

Aries:

Your service writer will be keeping you busy this month, and you’ll need to keep your focus to avoid burnout. Pay special attention to the effects of distractions around you. Some coworkers have a way of keeping you from your work for a little longer than you anticipate, and now is simply not the time for that. Instead, you’ll put important tasks first so that any downtime later will be far more enjoyable.

Taurus:

The transition to spring brings opportunities to reset some of your working relationships. Do you need to smooth things over with a boss, make amends with your service writer, or show some appreciation for a longtime customer? These changes will take a little dedication and initiative if you want the results to stick. That’s the interpersonal part of the job, and with change in the air, now’s as good a time as any to get intentional about it.

Gemini:

While others around you run into challenges in their bays, you’ll sail right on through the next few weeks. Any challenges coming your way will be within your abilities, and you may be called on to help out a friend in need. It will be best to lend a hand with no expectation of a favor in return, as your reward may come from other sources.

Cancer:

When it rains, it pours. April is not your month, Cancer: expect a change in the regular lineup of people you work with, probably due to a career move. This shift may put some additional responsibilities on your plate. You don’t have to like the new work, and disruption to group dynamics can be difficult for your sensibilities as a Cancer, but be careful not to resent others for making career changes.

Leo:

Matters of finance may not be very exciting to you, but your wealth will be at the forefront of your thoughts throughout this month. The finances of others will affect you, too, since tax return season is here. That means you can expect loads of deferred maintenance work over the next few weeks as customers bring in problems that they can finally afford to fix. Don’t forget to extend a little grace to these customers.

Virgo:

You will be tasked with some leadership responsibilities this month. Your dedication and good nature make you the right candidate for these responsibilities, but you may feel a kind of “impostor syndrome” along the way. Don’t let it distract you. Keep lines of communication open, rely on your experience to solve problems, and remember that you can always ask for help. If your shop is in a position to grow, don’t waste this opportunity to get ahead.

Libra:

Expect a major disruption to your routine this month. It might be a new workflow, a new system to learn, or a substantial reorganization. This is the time to speak up for yourself. Your thoughts and opinions matter, so be sure to voice them while everything is in flux. Your ability to anticipate problems makes you a valuable part of your team. Don’t hold back. A year from now, you’ll be glad that you cared enough to speak your mind. Also, the trouble you’ve been having with a personal vehicle will finally be resolved.

Scorpio:

Things are looking up for you this month, Scorpio. A handy new tool or skill will enter your life this month. It may come at a cost, but you’ll be glad to remove a major source (or sources) of annoyance from your life. Use any extra time gained from your newfound advantage for a little spring cleaning. If you really want to get ahead, there must be a place for everything, and everything in its place. Watch out for a fiendish European car repair.

Sagittarius:

You are a trustworthy member of your team. A coworker or someone close to you will open up about a personal struggle, and you may be asked to help them as they work through it. Lean on your helpful and empathetic side to lend a hand. Not all problems are yours to solve, but it is important to make things better where you can. One day, the favor will be returned.

Capricorn:

To win a few points with the boss, keep an eye out for a solution to a chronic shop problem. Whether your idea saves time, money, or space, embrace your practical side while channeling some creative thinking. Everyone can appreciate an idea that genuinely works, especially if it puts an end to a longstanding problem. Be sure to take a day or two off this month if you can. Some traveling to a new environment is just what you need right now.

Aquarius:

This month, you will face a tense situation, and you’ll want to be very careful about your word choices. Whether it’s a troublesome customer or an irritating coworker, the temptation to vent will be powerful. Rather than losing your temper, see what you can do to take pressure off the situation so that cooler heads can prevail. Others will respect your ability to handle uncomfortable conversations, and an unnecessary blowup can be avoided when you play your cards right. Easy does it.

Pisces:

Some oddball jobs are coming your way, and you may have to think resourcefully to pull them off. The experience gained is valuable, and overcoming each obstacle brings satisfaction to your work. Be careful not to overextend yourself. Jobs can always go sideways through no fault of your own, and it is especially important to cushion your to-do list when trying new things. One thing is for sure: you won’t be bored.

The articles and other content contained on this site may contain links to third party websites. By clicking them, you consent to Dorman’s Website Use Agreement.

Related Articles

Shop Press Comment Policy

Participation in this forum is subject to Dorman’s Website Terms & Conditions. Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Newest
Oldest Most Voted
Inline feedback
View all comments