Throw a set of these resettable “fuses” in your toolbox.
HOT OFF THE PRESS
How do you inspect a serpentine belt for wear?
Inspection of a belt goes beyond the old standbys of checking for cracks and fraying.
Brake rotor thickness variation – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)
On a car with disc brakes, what is the most likely symptom of a vehicle with rotors that measured out-of-spec for thickness variation when measured at several places on the rotor surface?
The importance of testing engine coolant (VIDEO)
Peter Meier discusses the importance of testing coolant and how mechanics can use simple strip testers to keep cooling systems safe.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Brake drum – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)
What do you check during drum brake service?
Top 5 mechanical oddities on RHD vehicles, and how to deal with them if one rolls into your shop
Working on a right-hand drive vehicle requires deviating slightly from a mechanic’s routine.
The only two mistakes you can make on your first timing belt job (and why you shouldn’t worry about them)
T-belts aren’t scary at all.
Ten (sort of serious) questions every service writer should ask
Skillful interrogation is a wonderful way to make your professional life easier. Here are a few suggestions on where to start.
TECHNICIAN CHALLENGE: Can you identify these dash lights? PART 4 (VIDEO)
Think you know your dash lights? Shop Press contributors Keith, Miriam, Chris, and Greaser try their best to identify all kinds of lights, symbols, and indicators.
ABOUT 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. With interesting stories from around the world, features on creative people and solutions, and all kinds of other stuff that’ll make you use your mind and your hands.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Fuel pump designs are changing. Do you know what kind of fuel pump you’re troubleshooting?
Many vehicles today have made the switch to DC brushless fuel pumps. They don’t work like the older brush-type pumps do.
Quick tip: how to use an old phone to check vehicle lights by yourself
That old smartphone can actually help when you don’t have a second set of eyes to help out.
Shop Upkeep Essentials (VIDEO)
Shop Press’ Miriam discusses tasks and tips to maintain a well-rounded shop.
A comprehensive primer on the automotive right to repair debate
Your guide to understanding controversy and proposed legislation that directly affects how repair professionals earn a paycheck.
What is the best type of air filter? (VIDEO)
Air filter elements come in a variety of shapes and designs, but which one is right for you?
VIDEOS
TECHNICIAN CHALLENGE: The Mystery Box, Part 2
The Proving Grounds crew takes on another round of The Mystery Box Challenge with new parts and a few new faces.
Why auto mechanics should check cabin air filters in every vehicle (VIDEO)
Air filters are an easy service item to overlook, but most manufacturers recommend a new filter every year or 15,000 miles.
Creative repurposing: Shims have all sorts of uses in an automotive shop
There are applications for shims besides fixing camber and panel gaps.