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Canadian Technician of the Year
Jason Mancinelli of Driven Automotive in Regina, Sask.
PLUS:
NOVEMBER 2016
Shop management software… from A-Z Q Understanding the various modes of OBD-II Q Being the professional your customer needs Q
Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40063170
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When Wh he en n you ou maxim a xim ax imiz ize tth he ca cap pa ab biilliiti t ie es s of yo y ou urr di d ia ag gno n os sttic ic plat pl attfo a fo orm rm m, y yo ou m ma ake k e th he e mo os st of of your ou r p ou po owe wer tto o dia iagn iag gnos ose an an ny y ch cha alllle en ng ge tth ha att pul ullls s in ntto tth he ba bay y..
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2016-10-17 12:07 PM
NOVEMBER 2016 | VOL. 2 NO. 9
CANADIAN AUTO REPAIR & SERVICE MAGAZINE
26
9 FEATURES
19
Management: Shop software from A-Z
Getting the most out of your shop management program? Here are a few talking points for the next time you see your software provider.
23
Special: The Canadian Technician of the Year
With 44 strong nominations from across Canada, judges had a difficult choice to make… but they found a winner in Jason Mancinelli of Regina, Sask.
26
Talking Tech: The modes of OBD-II
There’s a tremendous amount of data available through the OBD-II system… if you know how to find it and read it!
COLUMNS Service Notes
5
Allan Janssen on what it takes to be Canada’s top tech.
Management Insights
15
DEPARTMENTS Letters................................................................... 6
Murray Voth on the importance EyeSpy .................................................................. 6 of professionalism. In the News ........................................................... 9 By the Numbers ................................................. 13
The Car Side
23 38
Rick Cogbill tells the tale of a faulty connection at Slim’s.
Baywatch ............................................................ 32 Advertiser Index ................................................ 37
Our new international calling card. by
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November 2016
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SERVICE NOTES CANADIAN AUTO REPAIR & SERVICE MAGAZINE
EDITOR | Allan Janssen (416) 614-5814 allan@newcom.ca CONTRIBUTORS | Alan Beech, Murray Voth, Camille Casse, Jeff Taylor, Rick Cogbill, John Fraser, Peter Carter. ART DIRECTION | Tim Norton/Janet Popadiuk (416) 614-5810 tim@newcom.ca MANAGING DIRECTOR, AUTO DIVISION & NATIONAL SALES | Kathryn Swan (416) 510-5221 kathryn@newcom.ca NATIONAL SALES | Juan Diez (416) 510-5203 juan@newcom.ca QUEBEC & EASTERN CANADA SALES DIRECTOR | Denis Arsenault (514) 947-7228 denis@newcom.ca ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER, PRINT/DIGITAL | Alicia Lerma (416) 442-5600 ext. 3588 alicia@newcom.ca PRINT PRODUCTION MANAGER | Phyllis Wright (416) 510-6786 pwright@annexnewcom.ca CIRCULATION MANAGER | Lilianna Kantor (416) 614-5815 lily@newcom.ca CARS magazine is published monthly except for January and July by Newcom Business Media Inc., 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9. The magazine serves the Canadian automotive repair and service industry. Subscriptions are free to those who meet the criteria. For others: single copy price: $7.00 plus tax; one-year subscription in Canada: $53.95 plus applicable tax; 2-year subscription in Canada: $84.95 plus applicable tax; one-year subscription in U.S: US$95.95; single copy price: US$10.00; one-year subscription in all other countries: US$97.95. Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without prior written consent of the publisher. The advertiser agrees to protect the publisher against legal action based upon libelous or inaccurate statements, unauthorized use of photographs, or other material in connection with advertisements placed in CARS. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising which in his opinion is misleading, scatological, or in poor taste. Postmaster: send address changes and undeliverable Canadian addresses to Circulation Dept., CARS, 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9.
VP, OPERATIONS | Melissa Summerfield VP, EDITORIAL | Rolf Lockwood PRESIDENT | Joe Glionna CHAIRMAN | Jim Glionna CORPORATE OFFICES HEAD OFFICE 451 Attwell Dr., Toronto ON M9W 5C4 Telephone: 416-614-2200 Facsimile: 416-614-8861
REGIONAL OFFICE 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9 Telephone: 416-442-5600 Facsimile: 416-510-5169 Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulations Newcom Media – Publications at 80 Valleybrook Customer Number: 4006214 Publication Mail Agreement #40063170 Print edition ISSN 2368-9129 On-line edition ISSN 2368-9137 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
An impressive distinction Runners-up in this year’s Tech of the Year award impressed our judges. By Allan Janssen Every time we run the Canadian Technician of the Year competition, it falls on me to let the nominees know how the final scores panned out, and whether they won or not. This is one of the most difficult parts of my job. The Canadian Technician of the Year gets a fantastic prize (many thanks to Snap-on Tools of Canada for the custom-designed toolbox) and a fair bit of notoriety for earning the distinction. They also get free registration to the next Lindertech Technical Training Conference held in Toronto. Making that call is fun. But all the other nominees – some of whom missed the top spot by only a few points – get little more than the joy of knowing someone thought enough of their skills to nominate them for this national award. This year, in my letter to them, I told the runners-up that while they did not win, they should feel very proud to have been nominated. By some measure there are about 100,000 automotive service technicians in the country. The ones who get nominated constitute a very small percentage… but their stories are stirring indeed. They truly are the cream of the crop. Among the 44 nominees were a few who have overcome adversity to distinguish themselves among their peers. Some of them are so dedicated to upgrading their skills that they’ve become tremendous resources – not just to their own facilities but to neighboring shops as well. Many of them work tirelessly to improve the public’s perception of automotive repair and service. And all of them inspire young people to try a career in the trades. There were 10 finalists this year – all
with their own unique credentials, distinctions, and accomplishments. You’ll read about our winner on page 23. But if this were a perfect world, we’d have nine more awards to hand out to the other finalists: Breckon Black of Auto Centre Dufferin in Shelburne, Ont.; Josh Booy of Steve’s Automotive in Woodstock, Ont.; Billy Braun of Grande Prairie Rainbow Automotive in Grande Prairie, Alta.; Ken Butts of Wrenchmasters Autopro in Red Deer, Alta.; Mark Langendoen of Lincoln Valley Automotive in St. Catharines, Ont.; Ryan McDougall of Kelowna Motors Mazda, Kelowna, B.C.; Rui Silvestre of Master Mechanic High Park, Toronto, Ont.; Richard Sorensen of F. McClure & Sons Toyota in Grand Falls, N.B.; and Aaron Van de Kemp of Cleanline Automotive in Invermere, B.C. I’m so impressed with all of these guys. I hope they see their nominations as a stamp of approval on their skills and work ethic. Our judges certainly did! Our panel of 11 shop owners, trainers, and technicians from across the country weighed the nominations carefully and made thoughtful observations about each nominee. Unfortunately, despite all of the nominees’ accomplishments and the accolades heaped upon them, I had to send news to the runners-up that they would not to be feted as the Canadian Technician of the Year. Not this year anyway. The shortest – and possibly the most honest reply – came from one nominee who simply wrote, “Bummer!” Yes. Bummer indeed! But maybe next year. Please let me know what you think. You can reach me at allan@newcom.ca.
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LETTERS Techs aren’t always to blame for wheel-offs Thank you for your article on “7 ways to prevent wheel-offs” (September 2016). I thought your point that technicians are not necessarily to blame for this problem came across loud and clear. Well done. I recently spoke to an engineer who told me that it’s impossible to tell, just by looking at it, whether a stud broke due to fatigue or over-tightening. Even under a microscope that can be difficult to tell. It’s too easy to blame a tech. The real story may be quite different!
EYESPY
Rob Nurse Bob Nurse Motors, Peterborough, Ont.
Let’s not ignore a great source of new employees for our industry I found some of the comments on your letters page in the June issue to be very offensive – especially with regards to low-performing students. I’ve been in the automotive trade for 30-plus years, and though I’m a Red Seal licensed tech now, I was an under-achiever in high school. I even dropped out in Grade 10. When I was referred to a technical school and introduced to the automotive trade, I was immediately hooked! My interest in auto repair, led me to finish my education. If we as employers do not give these kids a chance, then how are we going to keep our trade alive? Maybe that kid who hates English class or commerce could be the future of our trade. Ken Foster
Some people believe the service and repair industry is no longer the ideal destination for poor students because it involves so much advanced technology. Kids who have no aptitude for math, physics, electronics or computing will have a hard time advancing to the highest levels. But you’re right that if they take to auto repair like you did, they’ll be excellent additions to our industry. —Allan
Breaking free A car owner phoned Joff Sims, owner of Centre de l’Auto Simkar in Montreal, to say his vehicle had a severe vibration. He was going to bring it in, but before he could get there, one of the wheels came off. The car finally made it to the shop… behind a tow truck. The rim was so badly rusted that it had completely broken apart. Have an interesting picture to share? Send a high-resolution image to allan@newcom.ca
Could I be on the hook for someone else’s bad repair? Current regulations in Ontario allow for a person to get a safety inspection done and then take the vehicle away to have defects repaired before returning for a re-check. With the new regulations asking for more accountability in safety checks, is it time to stop this practice? Should safety-related repairs be allowed only at licensed safety shops or by licensed techs in order to qualify for a safety certificate? Many times I worry that I have to act as “quality control” on someone else’s work when I do the re-check. I’m starting to wonder what my responsibility would be if someone else’s repair failed and there was no paper trail leading to the person who did the actual work. Wayne Quigg Art Quigg’s Service, London, Ont.
Women are a great addition to our trade… if they want to join it Regarding your editorial on women in the aftermarket (CARS, August 2016), I’ve had the opportunity to teach a couple of female apprentices, and in my experience, they are exceptional additions to our trade. The real question is, do they want to join? The work can be very physically demanding, and you have to be tough as nails to thrive in this kind of work environment. I urge all women who want to be in the trades to stand up to those who get in their way. The trades will be better for it. R.P. St. Catharines, Ont.
What’s on your mind? We want to hear from you about anything you read in CARS magazine. Send your email to allan@newcom.ca
6 CARS
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Meet the new Carter at carterfuelsystems.com AAPEX Booth 3038
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NEWS
Lindertech students get peek at future technology Constant and proper training is absolutely necessary for technicians – now more than ever before, says a veteran automotive trainer. David Hobbs, a Delphi field training instructor, told students at the recent Lindertech North technical training conference in Toronto that life-long learning is the key to success in the auto diagnostics game. “You better make sure you’re equipped with the right tools and prepared to embrace change... because change is coming!” he said. More than 100 technicians from across Canada attended the event organized by shop owners John and Leah Cochrane of Cochrane Automotive. Hobbs offered his take on future technology with a look at the ever-changing world of telematics and advanced diagnostics. He also offered an updated version of his popular “F.R.E.D.” course ( focusing on “Frustrating Ridiculous Electronic Devices”). Indiana-based trainer Ron Bilyeu
Delphi trainer Dave Hobbs offers his take on Frustrating Ridiculous Electronic Devices (FRED) at Lindertech in Toronto.
demonstrated performance tuning strategies for Ford, GM, and Chrysler production vehicles, in a hands-on course held at the Cochranes’ shop in
Alberta shops help fight proposed bill The Canadian Independent Automotive Association (CIAA) hopes its efforts to educate Alberta lawmakers will pay off when a controversial bill comes back to the provincial legislature later this year. Bill 203 – a private member’s bill intended to protect auto repair customers – was sent to committee for comment and debate. The CIAA has made submissions and encouraged its members through a series of conference calls and newsletters to talk to their political representatives. Art Wilderman, executive director of CIAA, says politicians do not have a good grasp on the intricacies of auto repair, and much of what was being proposed was either unnecessary or harmful to the industry. The bill is a proposed amendment to the province’s Fair Trading Act. The author of the bill, EdmontonMeadowlark MLA Jon Carson, said it
was designed to “protect Albertans from undue and unanticipated costs.” But Wilderman says Bill 203 duplicates consumer protection measures that are already in place, and puts unrealistic constraints on the automotive repair industry. He is most critical of the prohibition on charging for diagnostic time, and the requirement to offer a 90-day warranty on all parts and service. The bill also contains some things that are considered routine industry practices, like preparing estimates on every job. Wilderman says the NDP government is eager to preserve public support after a few of its initiatives were met with angry protest. “They're being cautious about doing anything that isn’t seen as positive. They’d like to get re-elected,” he said. “If we make enough noise, I think they’ll fix it.”
the west end of Toronto. Lindertech North is in its eleventh year in Canada, sponsored in part by NAPA’s Ontario division.
Bestbuy announces new scholarship for Canadian students Bestbuy Distributors is launching a new Student Scholarship Program with $10,000 in funding for post-secondary education. Bestbuy president Jeff Van de Sande said the new program is designed to help young people with bright minds and enthusiasm who are pursuing a future in the Canadian automotive industry. “As part of Bestbuy’s commitment to give back and encourage future growth and longevity in our industry, we will be awarding up to four $2500 scholarships annually to promising young people within our Bestbuy family that have a future in the Canadian automotive business,” he said. Complete program details can be found at www.bestbuydistributors.ca. November 2016
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NEWS
By the NUMBERS Stats that put the North American automotive aftermarket into perspective.
$17,100
Total maintenance costs for a Chrysler Sebring over 10 years – the most expensive in a survey of 20 different vehicle models. The least expensive were the Honda Pilot and the Mini Cooper at $11,200 over 10 years.
—YourMechanic.com
94%
Percentage of automobile crashes tied to human error or a poor human choice. —U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Automated Vehicles Policy, September 2016
17.7%
The average annual increase in the cost of maintaining a vehicle in the first 10 years of ownership – from about $300 annually in year one to about $1,530 in year 10.
—YourMechanic.com
800 lb. The predicted cost per vehicle of autonomous driving features by 2021, led by increased penetration of forward collision warning and emergency braking systems.
Amount of weight sheered off a mid-sized sedan when Magna and Ford teamed up for a “Lightweight Concept” project. The resultant vehicle still had to meet all safety requirements.
—SupplierInsight and Component Forecast Analytics, IHS Markit
—Peter Frise, University of Windsor
$75
25%
Betsy
Percentage of drivers who give their cars names. Young people aged 18 to 34, were most likely to name their cars (36 per cent), and women were more likely than men to give their cars a name. —Nationwide Insurance
1500
Horsepower available to drivers of the Koenigsegg Regera, said to be the most powerful production car ever. The Swedish performance car has a hybrid powertrain that utilizes a 5.0-liter twinturbo V8 motor, combined with three electric engines. —Jalopnik
454
Number of GM dealerships in Canada – the largest dealer network. Fiat-Chrysler has 439, while Ford comes in third with 429 locations. Toyota is a distant fourth with 247 locations. —AIA Canada, 2015 Study of Automotive Service Bays in Canada
35.6%
The amount of tax in a liter of gas in Quebec in 2015 – the highest in the country – approximately 38% of the average price of $1.15. Yukon has the lowest at 21.2 cents per liter, approximately 23% of the average price of $0.91 per liter. The average amount of tax in Canada that year was 38.5 cents per litre, which is approximately 35% of the average pump price of $1.04. In addition, some Canadian cities like Montreal and Vancouver have a transit tax.
44.18 CENTS
The percentage more cars per licensed driver in the U.S. compared to Canada in 2014. There were 24.9 million licensed drivers in Canada and 21.7 million light vehicles in operation in 2014. In the U.S., there were 214 million licensed drivers and 252 million vehicles in operation.
- PetroCanada
—Statistics Canada and Statista.com
November 2016
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MANAGEMENT INSIGHTS
Projecting
professionalism Your customers are looking for an expert who can take the stress out of buying automotive maintenance and repairs. By Murray Voth Our golden retriever recently went to the happy hunting grounds in the sky. It was a sad day when we said goodbye to our faithful friend, and the weeks leading up to it were difficult – made all the more so by a strained working relationship with a new veterinarian. It takes a good vet to provide the best and most humane care, especially when the animal is old. Unfortunately, by the time our dog started to get really sick, we’d moved away from the vet we’d gone to for years. And with the new vet came some unpleasant experiences, including several misdiagnoses and the high-pressure upselling of tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, medication, and other products. I didn’t buy everything that was suggested to me – and I was made to feel guilty for declining things. The inference was that I was not a good pet
owner. But I found out through other sources that many of the recommended tests were not really required to diagnose the condition of my dog. As my skepticism grew, I began to do online research and come to my own diagnoses. I found myself more apt to follow the advice of our dog groomer over the advice of the vet. The most frustrating thing was that I did not know what to do. I felt helpless and confused. I started looking for other vets in the area, always turning first to any negative reviews! I wanted to find out what I might be dealing with before I switched. The new vet had made me suspicious of all vets! I finally decided to go back to our old vet, which involved loading a sick dog into the car for an hour-long drive. Within a few minutes of a physical examination, without any fancy
equipment, he diagnosed that she had cancer. She had been to the other vet three times in the last three months and somehow this had been missed. He prescribed medication and painkillers and gave us advice on how to care for her in her last days. She was able to come to the cabin with us one last time before her time was up. The reason I tell this story is that I now know how it feels to trust a professional and then learn that the trust was misplaced. There’s a true sense of betrayal when you are sold things you do not need, pressured to buy things you do not want, given bad advice about something you care deeply about, and made to feel stupid or guilty for the decisions you’ve made. You end up feeling like you wasted a lot of money. You are understandably angry. I hope this all sounds very familiar November 2016
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MANAGEMENT INSIGHTS to you – not from the standpoint of a pet owner, but from the standpoint of an automotive repair customer. Among those who bring their vehicles to your shop, how many feel the way I felt about the new vet? How many leave your shop in frustration? How many are now going to other shops, hoping to find someone who truly has their best interest at heart? And most importantly, how many of your customers, out of sheer frustration and stress, have gone out and bought a new car – one that they take to the dealer for service? It’s my hope that everyone reading this article will sit down for a while, and think deeply about the best way to serve those who have trusted you enough to bring their vehicle to you. If you are honest with yourself, you might admit that you’re afraid of what many of your customers really think of your service. You’re afraid that you’ll lose them, that they don’t trust you, that they’re questioning their invoices, and that they’re ready to jump to another shop to find cheaper prices. But if you run an honest business, and if you really have their best interests at heart, why are you nervous? To be clear, I did not leave that vet because of pricing. I know it costs money to look after a pet. I left because what they were recommending did not make sense to me. I’m happy to pay for the services of a professional – as long as I perceive value. Value and price are very different things. We need to understand that value is in the eye of the beholder… not the presenter. You may be nervous because what you perceive as value is not what your customer perceives as value. On a practical note, I have four suggestions:
Have a strategy.
1
Take the time, as a team, to consider the ideal approach to automotive service and repair. What is the best way to look after a car?
What is the best value you can give your customers? Should you be order takers, doing only the things your customer specifically asks you to do? Or should you become transportation management experts, inspecting every vehicle carefully and making sure you know its true state? In many independent shops today, the technicians themselves cannot even agree on the best way to look after vehicles. How can we even go to market if we don’t have a clear understanding of our products and our roles as services providers?
Listen carefully.
2
You need to know your customers’ concerns about their vehicles. Ask them what they use their vehicles for, what they like and dislike about their vehicles, and how long they expect to keep them. The more you find out about your clients and their perspective on their vehicles, the better you’ll be able to serve them. You will get a clearer understanding of what they know about owning a vehicle and how much you’re going to have to educate them.
Communicate your professionalism.
3
This is more than just marketing. In general, you don’t see other professionals sending out discount coupons. You go to a dentist, doctor, lawyer, accountant or veterinarian when you need their advice or services. Your choice is not based on a coupon. Present yourselves as knowledgeable professionals and you will start to win their respect. Respect is earned, not given. The buying public is looking for someone who is confident in their abilities, and is willing to back that up with action.
Customize your services.
4
Have a unique plan for each client, based on your philosophy, their needs, and the vehicle’s best interests. We need to present an
approach that makes sense for everyone. This includes planning how many times they’ll be bringing their car in, what will get done, and approximately how much they should budget for maintenance. This might require restructuring the way you do business. You may not have enough trained staff on the front counter. You may only be fixing what is coming in each day. You may need to attract more of the right kind of customer and part ways with the ones who don’t appreciate the value of what you offer. For as long as I can remember, repair and service has been seen by most people as a grudge purchase. But it does not have to be that way. As responsible people, we all pay our bills. It may not be our favorite thing to do, but we understand what we’re paying for and how the services we buy improve our lives. We know when the bills will come and approximately how much they will be. We plan for them. In the automotive repair world, most invoices were totally unexpected and unplanned for. For decades we only fixed what was broken on a vehicle. Our customers waited till something failed before they brought it to us. And we didn’t look beyond that to figure out what might break next. By doing this, we created stress. And because maintenance was never budgeted for, it was always a grudge purchase. Why not create a world where vehicle service is planned and budgeted for, and each time the customer leaves your shop, they understand what they’ve paid for… and they feel good about it!
Murray Voth is a consultant and trainer with Total Automotive Consulting & Training Inc. in Edmonton, Alta., which runs the ProShop program across Canada. He can be reached at murrayvoth@proshopmanager.ca.
16 CARS
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C B A
The
smoef nt
e g a n a m p sho
e r a w t f o s
Some things to think about the next time you’re in the market for a system that will improve shop efficiency, productivity, and profitability. By Peter Carter
People who sell shop-management software designed to make your shop run more efficiently will tell you that their latest versions are pretty miraculous. According to them, your technicians will be more productive, your customers will be more faithful, parts will be easier
to source, and your floors will be cleaner. They might also tell you you’re the only shop in town that hasn’t embraced the latest software. But that part is definitely not true. Unfortunately, there are plenty of shops that still rely on hand-written invoices. The paperless shop has not become the norm. That’s why we’ve prepared some talking points – from A to Z – likely to come up in your next discussion with management software suppliers. ATTITUDE. The shops that see the most benefit from shop systems are the ones that embrace it whole-heartedly. Just look at the car dealerships,
many of which run finely tuned software that tracks a wide range of business metrics, including total inventory control, iron-clad parts and time management, and exhaustive customer data. If you’re going to compete in the digital age, you’re going to have to embrace software. BIRD CAGE. You can line the bottoms of them with your old paper parts books. Everything’s gone online and is available at the click of a mouse through your management system. CLAMPS. Let’s talk clamps. Say you buy a $0.50 clamp but you charge it out at $2. Not bad, right? But can you apply that same multiplier to, say, a $300 axle? No. But is there software that will build a parts-cost matrix for you, so you know exactly how much you can mark-up parts? And exactly how much that markup (and rad flush or brake job) will contribute to your annual profit? Absolutely there is! DENTIST. When was the last time you left a dentist’s office without first nailing down your next appointment? Many shop software packages not only prompt your service advisor to make the date, some send out automatic reminders to the customer prior to the follow-up. EVER HEARD THIS? “Your guy told me it would be about $39 and now you’re trying to tell me it’s $80? And it’ll take an extra day?!” Some of the higher-end software programs let technicians track their progress, and send pictures and information directly to customers, ensuring complete transparency throughout the repair. FRED. Today’s “Frustrating Ridiculous Electronic Devices” (to use a term coined by Delphi field training November 2016
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instructor Dave Hobbs) present a huge challenge in today’s retail environment. Our software needs to contain a socialmedia component designed to capture the mobile generation. GOLIATH. As technology advances, cars will be even more tightly connected to the manufacturers’ distribution system. You, as David, will be taking on an even bigger Goliath… and you’ll have to compete on service and price. Karole Lauzier VP of marketing at Laval, Que.-based VL Communications, says, “A good mechanic is one who can repair cars and trucks, can install tires, and change oil. If he can create customer’s cards for follow-ups, shop for parts directly from an estimate using real e-commerce links, manage his parts and tire inventory, take appointments and send service recalls, then one’s got all he needs. And that’s just the basics.” HOOPED. That’s what Dean Dungen of Get Wrenched Automotive in Calgary says he would be if the software system he relies on, StockTrack by Janco, didn’t back up his information every night. INTEL. Josi Candito, one of three principals at Master Mechanic in Toronto’s west end, employs a Lankar system that – in addition to all sorts of other features – produces reports from other markets and competitors. She can see where her garage ranks with trending sales. She can see where she needs to improve… or not. JUNIOR. Suppose he doesn’t want to be a shop owner when he grows up. Suppose you’re going to have to sell your business. The more accurately you can measure your company’s worth, the better price you’ll get for it. Shop software lets you keep track of every input and every output of your operation. Nothing succeeds (or fails) like succession. KNOWLEDGE. Integrated online parts catalogs give you everything you need to know when you punch in the VIN. No more “Let me put you on hold while I look that up.” LANDLINES. They can become business bottlenecks when used for parts ordering. The better software
packages offer a direct parts-ordering service that never ties up your phone. “If you have three landlines and two of them are tied up by guys ordering parts, think of the calls and the business you’re missing,” says Tim McDonnell, national training manager for Mitchell 1. MOBILES. Shop-management software comes in many forms. A smartphone is a computer, too. Can your service advisors text customers to let them know the car is ready? If not, why not? It’s quicker than a phone call. NEXT BIG THING. Are you sitting down? According to VL Communication’s Karole Lauzier, the next iteration of shop management systems will focus on the basics: “True customer care.” ON A SCRAP OF PAPER. That’s where too many technicians still write important information. Without modern input devices – many of them voice activated – they resort to scraps of paper. And then, inevitably, whatever they wrote their crucial information on gets lost… immediately. PRESSURE. You think there’s a lot of pressure to update your software? It’s going to get worse! QUIRKS. Every customer is different. Each has their own wants and needs. Like many independent operators, Jim Dickinson of Jim Dickinson AutoTech in Ottawa has a very close working relationship with his customers. He knows who’s living paycheque to paycheque and who takes car maintenance seriously. (Sound familiar?) So while he’s currently in the middle of upgrading his Protractor system, he’s hoping to create a maintenance program for each vehicle with those personality traits in mind. If you value that kind of personal service, insist that your software-supplier can make the grade. ROI. “There are many benefits that can play into ROI,” says Mitchell 1’s McDonnell. A few that came to mind: You can create accurate estimates in less time; you have better scheduling of shop resources; you look more professional to customers; there’s less time spent ordering parts; you generate data to market with and
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retain customers; additional work identified is stored to vehicle records; and you’ve got easy access to repair history and better control of accounts receivable. SUPPORT. You’ll need it. Dungen is bullish on the full-service “StockTrack” system that handles his invoicing, customer service, parts, and employee productivity. When he upgraded a hardware component, a customer-service representative transferred everything over to the new machine at no extra cost. TABLETS. Are your people still inspecting with pencil and paper and transferring that information to your service writer who then has to tap it into a computer? Would you say there’s room for error there? Today’s technology offers a smarter way… and more software systems are tapping into the power of tablets. UNDER. That’s exactly where your
business will go if you don’t keep up with the telematics trends that some believe threaten to skew business toward dealerships. Dan Nickerson, of Halifax’s Mighty Auto, is keeping close track of the technology, lest his shop be kept out of the loop when his customers’ vehicles require service. VALUE. Do you put a value on a technician’s diagnostic time? If not, why not? If it’s carefully tracked and you can demonstrate it to a customer, you can charge for it. Says McDonnell, “A good service provider can record diagnostic time and have the option of adding it to the price of a costly repair. Also, if you do a diagnostic and the customer backs out and says, ‘I think I’ll have my brother-in-law do it,’ we can say, ‘That’s fine.’ But at least we get to collect for the time we put into it.” WHEELS. “There are wheels on the bottom of a toolbox for good reason,” McDonnell says. “If a technician doesn’t
like what’s happening in one shop, he’ll move his act down the road to somebody else.” Lesson being, when you introduce your staff to new systems, make sure there’s something in it for the workers. If the average repair order count is up, so should your staffs’ labor or sales commissions. X, Y, and Z… As in, all the other services your technicians will be able to recommend and accurately cost out when they use the most efficient inspection software. As McDonnell put it: “Your guy can say ‘we took care of a, b, and c, but we also found x, y, and z.’” Chances are there’s a lot of profit in x, y, and z! Peter Carter is a freelance journalist based in Toronto, Ont.
November 2016
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COVER STORY
PROBLEM SOLVER Jason Mancinelli, a career technician, skilled diagnostician, and co-owner of Driven Automotive in Regina, has been named the Canadian Technician of the Year for 2016. The award – sponsored by Snap-on Tools of Canada, Total Canada, and the Lindertech North Technical Training Conference – attracted 44 nominations from every part of the country. After two rounds of judging, including one round by a panel of 11 shop owners, technicians, and trainers, Mancinelli came out on top to win the title. “This is a huge honor,” said Mancinelli. “I know there are a ton of really great technicians out there, so it’s very humbling to win!” He wins a custom-designed Snap-on toolbox as well as a complimentary registration to next year’s Lindertech North Technical Training Conference. The 43-year-old technician was nominated by one of his very first co-workers, Barry Baitinger, now an automotive service technician instructor at Red Deer College in Alberta.
Jason Mancinelli of Regina, Sask. is named Canadian Technician of the Year for his technical excellence and work to promote the industry. By Allan Janssen PROUDLY SPONSORED BY: PREMIUM PRIZE SPONSOR
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A shop owner, technician… and politician? Hot on the heels of being named the 2016 Canadian Technician of the Year, Mancinelli is now hoping to win another big prize. The career technician and shop owner is running for Regina’s city council. “I’ve got a big mouth and lots of ideas,” he says with a grin. He was inspired to run for office when the recent downturn in the economy threw a new light on council decisions. “I think they made a few mistakes, not putting enough away for when the boom ends. It takes foresight and
political will to do the right thing when things are good, so that you can get through the tough times a little better,” he explains. “It may be too late for some of those decisions, but I know I have a good set of tools in my box to make the next round of decisions better.” He calls himself a good thinker, an adequate speaker, and someone who has always been interested in people. “I think I have a shot,” he says. “I wouldn’t do this if I didn’t think I had a chance. I’m not a celebrity, but I’m fairly well known.” Election day was still weeks away when this magazine was printed, so we can’t report on how he fared on Oct. 26, but if his enthusiasm is any indication, he garnered a healthy share of the returns!
“He’s definitely one of the best,” says Baitinger. “He’s the kind of guy who would go home at night still thinking about the cars he was working on throughout the day. He used to come back in the morning with fresh ideas about how a particular system should work and why it might be failing because he was doing research late into the night. He has that kind of persistent curiosity.” Baitinger says Mancinelli thinks about automotive problems the way an engineer might think about them. “How is the thing built, how does it actually work, what are the stresses on it, and what could cause it to fail? These things all lead to his diagnosis,” says Baitinger. And, although Mancinelli went on to open his own auto repair shop with service advisor partner Daryl Kulcsar, he never forgot what it was like to be a new technician coming up in the system. “Sometimes it’s difficult for an apprentice to find an experienced technician who’s willing to spend the time to explain how things work and why parts fail,” says Baitinger. “But Jason has always been willing to help the young guys. He displays great patience, passing on his knowledge to apprentices.” These days, Mancinelli says he wants to be the kind of boss who helps his employees reach their full potential. He and Kulcsar have joined the ShopPros management system, which espouses greater delegation of work duties. “ShopPros tries to teach owners to be owners, not workers,” says Mancinelli. “That means giving responsibilities to other people, assigning tasks, and spreading the work around. That’s how people grow.” Mancinelli says he always makes himself available to help those who have questions, but he also likes to see his employees becoming more competent and more self-sufficient. That’s what gives him the freedom to hone his exceptional diagnostic skills.
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Special thanks to Canadian Technician of the Year industry judging panel – all of them members of the CARS Advisory Panel: Terry Bujold, service manager at Coates Fine Cars in Barrie, Ont.; Mike Cleary, trainer with ATSS Training in Fresno, Calif.; Harley Daresi of Dave’s Auto Truck Bike in Milton, Ont.; David Leduchowski, owner of Integrity Auto in Teulon, Man.; Ron Pasay, service manager at Fountain Tire in Fort Saskatchewan, Alta.; John Poos, service manager at Guelph VW in Guelph, Ont.; Jason (sitting) with the technicians at Driven Automotive in Regina, Sask. From left: Dylan Carlson, Steve Zasitko, Ryan Booker, Blair Wagner, Nick Zieger, and Scott Molnar.
The Driven Automotive team, back in 2007, when the business was still in its infancy. From left, Daryl Kulcsar, Wayne Isted and Jason Mancinelli.
He recognized early in his career the value of keeping up with vehicle technology. He purchased a variety of OE scan tools and trained hard to use them to their fullest capability. “I was an early adapter. I didn’t want to be left behind. I just wanted to stay one step ahead of it, and that meant a lot of reading, a lot of training, and a lot of exposure to a wide range of problems,” he says. “I’m a problem-solver at heart. I can’t let go of a problem until I’ve figured it out. That’s what I do.” Diagnostics has been his bread and
butter ever since, as area shops learned that he’s the one to call when they can’t figure out what’s wrong with a car. For his part, Mancinelli loves the challenge. “It gives me the ability to take a crack at everyone’s most difficult jobs,” he says. “I’m a little unique in that way. A terrific learning opportunity rolls into most shops once every two months. I’m seeing them every single day. That’s my day-in and day-out.” The high standard for competence has served Driven Automotive well in an industry that is known for the challenge of finding skilled workers. “The first couple of guys we hired were heavily dealer-trained and that built a reputation that carried forward,” he says. “The better wrenches kept coming to us because they knew the shop by reputation. Good techs attract good techs.” Ten years in, Driven Automotive now has seven technicians and four service advisors for nine bays. And if that seems overstaffed, it’s all for a reason. Kulcsar and Mancinelli are toying with the idea of opening a smaller satellite location. “I’ve always been interested in seeing
Steve Schison, owner of SS Auto & A/C Service in Eganville, Ont.; Steve Schwartz, owner of BRS Automotive Business Consulting in Owen Sound, Ont.; Trevor Tietz, service manager at Myers Orleans Chevrolet Buick GMC in Ottawa, Ont. Bob Ward, owner of The Auto Guys in St. Thomas, Ont.; and Brad York, owner and general manager at OK Tire & Auto in St. Albert, Alta.
if we can recreate the first results the second time,” says Mancinelli. And, true to his nature, he’s going to give his employees the chance to do the heavy lifting and reap the rewards of their work. “I like the lawyer model where the partners have a share in the business, and they bring in their own clients. I think that could work in the automotive repair world,” he says. “It gives you a stable workforce, and it follows the paradigm of passing your knowledge on to the next generation.” That approach is in keeping with his general life-philosophy. “I’ve always believed that everything I touch should be better when I’m done,” he says. “Whatever you do in life, you should try to leave it better shape than the way you found it.” November 2016
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TALKING TECH
The mode$ of
OBD-II There’s a tremendous amount of data available through the OBD-II system… if you know how to find it and read it! By Jeff Taylor
D
iagnosing a check engine light – or, to use its official name, a malfunction indicator light (MIL) – is a common occurrence in most shops. But how often are OBD-II and its 10 modes used to perform those diagnostics? It’s the OBD-II system’s responsibility to turn the MIL on and alert the driver if there’s a failure anywhere in the vehicle’s emissions system. A “failure” allows at least 1.5 times the federal test procedure (FTP) limit of emissions to be created, causing excessive pollution. Because the OBD-II system controls the MIL, I like to start off looking at the OBD-II system first. It runs self-tests – some of them continuously and others only when the prescribed conditions allow – and the conditions and results of these tests are accessible via a scan tool. So an investigation starts with gaining access to the system’s 10
diagnostic service modes, and interpreting the data they provide.
Mode $01
faster the data refresh rate will be… and having genuine sensor data is a real help!
Request current powertrain diagnostic data.
Mode $02
Before the scan tool can do anything, it needs to know what language the vehicle speaks. CAN, ISO 9141-2, and J1850 PWM are examples of communications protocols used. Once the scanner understands the vehicle's protocol, the PCM will allow the scanner access to current live powertrain data values or PIDs (parameter identification). This data must be actual sensor reading, not default, substituted or enhanced data that some manufacturer factory data streams may provide. The vehicle’s system readiness test status and the MIL status are also displayed in this mode. The fewer PIDs that are selected, the
This mode provides the data that is stored at the time of the emissions-related fault, when the MIL was initially turned on. Mode $02 only shows the data from when the code set, not when the actual problem started. This can be very useful in replicating the failure conditions. For example, freeze-frame data can provide help diagnosing a Toyota Matrix with a P0171 lean code. A look at the freeze-frame data shows that the code is set when the temperature is cold and the intake plenum gaskets are as hard as rocks and not able to seal properly. That’s why it always runs fine
Request freeze-frame information
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Oxygen and air fuel sensors typically set OBD-II codes that don’t need a factory scanner to diagnose.
by the time you see it. Freeze-frame data can be overwritten by higher priority DTCs and will be cleared when the codes are cleared.
one input signal to another. For example, intake air temperature and coolant temperature should be similar after a cold soak.
Mode $03
Mode $04
Request emissions-related diagnostic trouble codes Mode $03 allows the scanner access to the stored DTCs in the PCM. These emission-related codes will be “P0” codes that have “matured” as defined in the OBD-II standards. OBD-II now includes diagnostics like rationality testing, which compares
Clear/reset emissionsrelated diagnostic information When you want to clear a stored code, this is the mode that is used. Clearing the memory will turn off the MIL and clear the freeze-frame data but that’s just the tip of the information that is erased. Mode $04 resets the monitor’s status, distance travelled while the MIL was on, warm-ups, engine run time, oxygen sensor data, on-board monitoring test results, and pending codes. It’s important when doing an OBD-II diagnostic to record as much of this information as possible for future
reference after the repair. Clearing may erase some learned engine values and erase some adaptive memory that may cause driveability issues unless properly road-tested. Certain vehicles will not allow a clear/reset if the proper conditions aren’t met. Chryslers, for example, need the key on but engine off.
Mode $05
Request oxygen sensor monitoring test results The purpose of this mode was to allow access to the PCM’s oxygen sensor monitoring values, and test results. Different manufacturers used differing methods to calculate the O2 tests. This mode converted them to the same standard units of measurement. This mode is only used if the vehicle is not using CAN architecture. If the vehicle is CAN-enabled, all this data is stored in Mode $06. November 2016
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TALKING TECH
What’$ t$ with the
$?
Ever wondered why the programmers put a dollar sign in front of the mode number? It was done beFDXVH 2%' ,, XVHV D VFLHQWLÀF QXPEHULQJ V\VWHP called “hexadecimal.” Hexadecimal values are reported with a combination of numbers and letters, DQG DUH LGHQWLÀHG ZLWK D GROODU V\PERO SUHÀ[
Mode $06
Request on-board monitoring test results for specific monitored systems Mode $06 allows access to the results of on-board diagnostic monitoring tests of specific components – whether they are continuously monitored (misfire monitoring) or non-continuously monitored (EGR evaporative systems). Most scan tools will now automatically convert the test values, test results, and test limits into something that techs can use to make decisions. Many older scan tools lack this ability... and without these automatic conversions you’ll need to spend time to find what the test numbers indicate and what the values represent. Many manufacturer web sites provide this information. Mode $06 shows actual test information… as long as the readiness monitors status from Mode $01 shows that the monitor is complete. This is important to remember because there may be data there before the monitor has run to completion and this may be just garbage information. The monitor has to be completed. I like to look at Mode $06 data to see just how bad a particular component failed; this is very helpful in P0420/430 catalytic failure codes. Mode $06 is not only useful for finding Ford misfires; it’s also really handy at identifying other issues that may appear after clearing a code. You can check Mode $06 and see if any other tests are close to failing, even though they’re not related to the code or issue you were diagnosing. Many times a misfire code will shut off the enabling criteria for many other tests, and it’s good to have a heads up that the evaporative system was close to failing or that the catalytic convertor
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was already borderline.
Mode $07
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Request emission-related diagnostic trouble codes detected during current or last completed driving cycle Mode $07 records the codes that are maturing – or as you might know them better: pending codes. The intent of this mode is to assist in diagnostics after a repair by showing a specific test fail after one drive cycle. If this test fails, a related DTC will be stored, but the MIL may not be illuminated. And if the fault is not seen again for 40 to 80 warm-up cycles, the code will clear automatically. If the test fails again, the DTC will set (mature) and the MIL will be illuminated. This mode should always be looked at before the codes are cleared, as this information will disappear when a Mode $04 reset is performed. Many codes will inhibit the testing of many other parts and systems due to the enabling criteria. For example, a misfire code may disable the catalytic convertor monitor that has already failed once and set a pending code. This could be related to the misfire or totally unrelated. Pending codes that are unrelated to the repair you’re performing should be noted as these may reappear after the repair.
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Mode $08
Request control of on-board system, test or component Mode $08 is intended to allow the scan tool to perform some bidirectional control of an onboard test or component. Typically, it will allow you to seal the evaporative system to check for leak testing. This mode is really hit or miss
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TALKING TECH and doesn’t usually do anything.
Mode $09
Request vehicle information Mode $09 provides the vehicle’s vehicle identification number (VIN), calibration IDs, calibration verification numbers, number of engine starts, and a data set that includes in-use performance tracking. In-use performance tracking logs the number of times that specific component monitors (catalysts, primary 02s, EGR, AIR, and evaporative system) ran to completion. It also shows how many times the conditions to run that monitor were enabled. This information is useful in verifying a repair and knowing if something was stopping some of the enabling conditions. (Failing thermostats commonly stop monitors without trouble codes being generated.) The other reason I like to look at this area is to make sure that the monitor counters are increasing. If they seem to be fixed or display a very low number relative to the vehicle age or mileage, I’m often suspicious that the car has some form of tune or non-factory PCM software.
Mode $0A (10)
Emission-related DTC with permanent status Just because you or someone else has turned off the MIL doesn’t mean that the PCM has forgotten that a code (or codes) were set. The OBD-II system remembers that there was a fault serious enough to request the illumination of the MIL and it’s not about to forget this just yet. The MIL light can be turned off a number of ways, either by passing a prescribed number of subsequent tests, having the fault repaired by a tech, or by using Mode $04 to clear the MIL and other data. But even after this, Mode $0A will still keep track of this information, and until the proper testing is performed by the OBD-II system (running the monitor),
Read-out of Mode $09 data that indicates how many times the ignition has been turned on.
this code will remain in Mode $0A.
Finishing up Putting this all in practical terms, here’s a scenario I’ve encountered more than once. It’s a 2009 Ford Escape with a 3.0L V6. The customer’s issue is that it drives fine but the MIL is on. First thing I do is hook up an OBD-II capable scanner, and look for codes using Mode $01 and Mode $03. They display the code P0420, a catalytic efficiency code for bank 1. I then look at the freeze-frame data (making sure that freeze-frame data is for the P0420 code) and check the operating conditions when the MIL was turned on. The data in Mode $02 ( freeze frame) shows me that the vehicle was at operating temperature, in closed loop, on the highway, and that the fuel trims on both banks were at about +/-5% (which is A-OK). From this point, I’ll go to Mode $01 again to make sure the catalytic monitor is ready and run to completion. Then off to Mode $06 to look at the catalytic test data. In this case I’m able to compare bank 1 with bank 2. Mode $06 data tells me that bank 1 failed badly, while bank 2 is well within specs. Before I leave the Mode $06 area, I look over all the other test data to make sure nothing is close to failing (O2 values). By now I have pretty much decided
that I’m going to be looking at a convertor. But I go to Mode $07 first to see if any other codes are pending. In this case there isn’t. From here, I’ll check to see if there are any Mode $0A codes that have been cleared recently but that aren’t resetting. In this case there were no issues and only the P0420. The last set to look at is Mode $09 to find out if the vehicle has had any issues running this test. It hasn’t. In fact, the test has run over 1500 times. So… I’ve made my decision. This vehicle needs a convertor. Research has shown that almost 85% of the emission-related MIL complaints can be dealt with using nothing more than OBD-II and an appropriate scanner. Some of us are already using a number of OBD-II modes, but a lot of techs are still unaware of all the information available to them, and how much it can help in diagnosing and verifying a repair without the need for a factory scan tool.
Jeff Taylor is a former ACDelco Technician of the Millennium winner and the Canadian Technician of the Year for 2005. He’s the senior tech at Eccles Auto Service in Dundas, Ont.
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BMW electric water pump Continental Commercial Vehicles & Aftermarket now offers an OE Electric Water Pump with an integrated control unit for a wide range of BMW vehicle applications. The new VDO Electric Water Pump is the exact OEM part and identical in fit, form, and function. It delivers precise engine temperature control through variation of coolant
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Popular, long-established auto repair shop has been operating profitably in an industrial section of Mississauga. Using sophisticated computerized diagnostic tools as well as up-to-date repair equipment, the enterprise has built an extensive customer list of repeat patrons who regularly seek the services of this company for routine maintenance as well as repair work. The owner, who would like to retire, is currently the sole mechanic on staff but there are adequate hoists and space to accommodate an increase in trained employees. This is an ideal opportunity for a certified mechanic who is looking to break out on his own as well as current owners looking to expand their customer base. Call Norm at 416-560-0545 or email norm.sobel@rogers.com.
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Engine cooling fan modules Gates has introduced a line of Engine Cooling Fan Modules covering over 26.5 million vehicles in operation in North America. Gates’ program includes OE Performance modules and Solution Kits. OE Performance parts ensure an exact fit and easy installation while effectively restoring the cooling system to proper operation and performance. www.gates.com
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Software upgrade With its latest software release, Snap-on increased the vehicle coverage in Software Upgrade 16.2 for Auto-ID, One-Touch Full Vehicle Code Scan, and One-Touch Clear All Codes.
Fuel module assemblies Carter Fuel Systems has introduced seven new fuel module assemblies, covering a series of model year applications ranging from 2009-2015. Extending coverage to reach four million additional passenger vehicles, the new part numbers fit popular
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Software Upgrade 16.2 has been enhanced with productivity features to help technicians easily identify a vehicle, conduct a complete vehicle heath check and clear all codes with the touch of just one button at each step. The upgrade provides access to 105,440 additional codes, tests, tips and data for vehicles as far back as 1997, as well as new 2015 domestic and Asian coverage. www.diagnostics.snapon.com models such as the Ford Edge, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Silverado, Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Corolla and Honda Accord. Carter offers a broad line of fuel pumps and accessories, including first and second generation mechanical fuel pumps, electrical fuel pumps/ pump kits, module assemblies, original equipment (OE) replacement parts and supporting equipment. carterfuelsystems.com
Ball joint installation tool Mevotech includes new LaborSaver solutions with many of its chassis and suspension parts. The no-charge features, found right in the box, include things like additional brackets and bushings where necessary, anti-rotation installation design on ball pins, “EasySnap” locking pins, larger ball joint housing flange, and pre-applied thread locking adhesive. One particularly popular solution for the Mevotech Supreme and TTX lines simplifies the installation process with an innovative “Bootstaller” that protects the boot as it’s installed on the ball joint. www.mevotech.com
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BAYWATCH BA Scan tool features Snap-on has introduced new features to its Modis Edge combination full-function scan tool and scope/graphing. It has a five-second boot-up time and the new Instant ID feature that automatically reads the VIN upon connection to the vehicle. It has a nine-foot lighted OBD cable and a dedicated SMX operating system with quick links to common procedures such as oil specs and service interval resets. In addition, it has a finger-driven, eight-inch color touchscreen and four-way thumb pad. The Vehicle System Report for 2008 and newer vehicles displays a complete view of diagnostic results for all available systems. Online software upgrades for Modis Edge are available through the software subscription plan. www.diagnostics.snapon.com/MODISedge
Brake catalog Tenneco has published a new Monroe Brakes master catalog featuring hundreds of additional part numbers covering millions of passenger vehicles and severe duty/commercial vehicle applications. Included are 184 additional Monroe ProSolution premium brake pad sets and the expanded Monroe Total Solution ultra-premium brake pads. Total Solution brake pads are offered with Tenneco’s Safe & Sound Guarantee 90-day risk-free trial offer. www.monroebrakes.com
Emissions control parts The Walker Emissions Control brand now offers coverage of more than 30 million additional late-model passenger vehicles. Included among 99 newly introduced parts are Walker Quiet-Flow SS mufflers for 2014 Honda CR-V, 2015 Toyota Sequoia, 2011-15 Dodge Grand Caravan, and Ford Explorer models. Also, nine Walker Ultra EPA-compliant OBD-II catalytic converters for 2010-13 Ford Transit Connect and 2011-15 Toyota Sienna vans. Tenneco also introduced 41 Walker CalCat CARB-compliant converters, 23 of which are direct-fit units. www.walkerexhaust.com
Cooler connectors Dorman’s OE FIX offers a solution to rusted original transmission oil cooler connectors. Billed as an alternative to buying a replacement part from the dealer, which may require the purchase of a new radiator, Dorman’s transmission oil cooler connectors are available as a separate component. Dorman promises direct replacement for a proper fit every time. www.dormanproducts.com November 2016
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THE
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...continued from page 38 issues with that instrument panel junction block, and it causes all the symptoms we got here. According to Hank, it’s terminal F5, a big red wire that’s the battery feed to all the affected circuits. The connection gets loose, and most times it melts the junction block around it.” He reached for a screwdriver and a 7mm nut driver. “He says they’re easy to get at. It’s a black 68-way junction block right in the centre of the dash behind the console trim panels.” He turned his greasy cap around backwards and grabbed a seat cover. “Stand back, gents; Pro Toon is gonna show you how the big boys do it.” And it really looked like Tooner’s industry connection was paying off. Once he had the junction block out for inspection, we could all see where the heavy red wire connection had become loose and in the process had melted the surrounding plastic. A new junction block and replacement wiring connectors from the dealership made a nice tidy repair. However, tidy doesn’t mean fixed. Once everything was back in place, Tooner turned on the ignition key. The engine would crank, but it still wouldn’t start. A quick check revealed that there was no power to the F5 circuit. Tooner looked sheepish. “Uh, Basil, would you mind looking up the wiring diagrams on your little machine-thingy? Looks like I’ll have to dig deeper.” Basil graciously acquiesced and after some diligent study, we found that the F5 circuit got its power from the battery via the 30 AMP I/P BATT fuse of the underhood junction block. Tooner located and repaired an oxidized connection below the fuse and replaced the fuse for good measure. It solved the power supply problem and the car started and ran like a dream. “So what’s the lesson learned here?” I asked during coffee break. Beanie waved his hand high in the air. “I know, I know! Good connections are great, but a person still has to do his own homework to get the best results.” Tooner scowled. “Pipe down, kid. Nobody likes a show-off.” Basil cleared his throat. “I’ve been looking into those golf course condos, and apparently the developer has run afoul of the local building inspector. The whole project may be shut down and could go into bankruptcy. Perhaps you should think twice before signing on the dotted line.” Tooner waved him off. “I ain’t worried. I got a connection who’ll sue the pants off him if he tries that trick.” I took a sip of coffee. “Let me guess; a high-powered lawyer?” “Yep,” Tooner beamed. “The divorced ex-brother-in-law of my wife’s cousin’s daughter, twice removed.” He patted his cell phone. “Yessiree, I’m connected!” Rick Cogbill is a freelance writer and former repair shop owner, based in Summerland, B.C. You can read more Car Side adventures in his book A Fine Day for a Drive. Go to www.thecarside.com.
AIA .................................................................36 www.becarcareaware.ca Automechanika ............................................12 www.automechanikachicago.com
CHICAGO
Bestbuy .........................................................33 www.bestautonetwork.ca Blue Streak ..................................................... 3 www.bluestreak.ca BMW................................................................ 4 www.bmw4ir.ca Carter Fuel Pumps ......................................... 7 www.cartfuelsystems.com Chrysler .........................................................18 www.mopar.com ContiTech ...................................................... 17 www.continental-elite.com Ford ............................................................... 31 www.ford.ca/wholesale Keystone Business Brokers..........................32 www.normsobel.ca Liqui Moly......................................................35 www.liquimoly.us Mann+Hummel - WIX ....................................28 www.wixfilters.com Mercedes ......................................................39 www.mbwholesale.ca Mister Transmission .....................................20 www.mistertransmission.com Mitchell 1 ......................................................10 www.mitchell1.com NAPA ............................................................... 8 www.napacanada.com Power Pusher ................................................32 www.powerpusher.com Prestone ........................................................11 www.prestone.com
®
Promax ..........................................................29 www.autopartsdepot.ca Raybestos .....................................................14 www.raybestos.com Snap-On .......................................................... 2 www.snapon.com Total Canada .................................................22 www.total-canada.ca VL Communications .....................................34 www.vlcom.com WORLDPAC ...................................................40 www.worldpac.ca/simple1 WORLDPAC Textar ........................................21 www.textar-worldpac.com
November 2016
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John Fraser
THE
Questionable connections Tooner thinks he’s got the solution for a stubborn Saturn… but does he have the power to fix it? By Rick Cogbill Tooner strutted through the shop door, proud as a peacock. “Yessiree, it ain’t what ya know, but who ya know that counts!” Basil removed his reading glasses and looked up from his shop laptop. “I take it your meeting with the loan company’s financial officer went well?” Tooner grabbed an apple off his toolbox and began polishing it. “You bet. Got Mabel and me approved for a loan on a nice little condo up by the new golf course. All goin’ well, we’ll be moved in by next spring.” “A new condo.” Beanie sighed wistfully. “That sure beats the moldy basement suite I’ve been renting for the past two years. I’d like to get something of our own when Samantha and I get married, but the banks won’t even talk to me.” Tooner raised a cocky eyebrow. “That’s because yer a nobody, Bean. If you had status like I do, it’d be a different story.” Quigley leaned against the parts room doorframe, his arms crossed. “You’re not the only one with connections. My guy down at the Ford store got me approved for a new lease. Pretty soon I’ll be driving my new F150!” I chuckled. “Quig, that’s not saying much. The way they give vehicles away these days, even Beanie could get a new car.” “Gee, thanks Slim… I think.” Beanie looked even more depressed. “Connections are wonderful,” said Basil. “But the true measure of a man comes from what he can do when he’s on his own. Relying solely on other people is tenuous at best.” He turned
back to his wiring diagrams. “At least, that’s my experience.” Tooner was disgusted by our lack of awe and admiration. “Well, I’ll just show ya how important connections can be. See that Saturn? I’ll have it fixed in no time.” He lowered his voice. “Got me a buddy who’s a certified Saturn Tech. One little phone call and I’m on the road to diagnostic success.” The vehicle in question was a 1999 Saturn SL2 with a 1.9L engine. One of our regular clients had bought it for his daughter as a reliable piece of transportation to and from work. However, it was now six months later and the Saturn had come in on the hook. The complaint was that it would sometimes crank but not start. It also stalled intermittently. And when it did restart, all the radio presets and clock settings were gone. Right now it wouldn’t start at all. Tooner made his phone call and after a few minutes of discussion with his friend, hung up with a smug look on his face. He nodded at Basil. “Here we go. Just open up the company email and print me out the service bulletin that Hank just sent me.” Beanie retrieved the print-out from the shop printer. “Service bulletin #03-08-45-001,” he read. “Intermittent no start, intermittent stall after start-up and/or loss of radio presets. It says here you might have to replace the IPJB.” “Yep,” agreed Tooner. “These models have been having ...continued on page 37
38 CARS
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