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  • Charlotte Auto Dealers hold annual Auto Tech competition

    Charlotte Auto Dealers hold annual Auto Tech competition

    The Greater Charlotte Auto Dealers Association (GCADA) recently hosted its 4th Annual Auto Tech Competition at Charlotte Motor Speedway, bringing together high school students and local dealerships to strengthen the automotive technician pipeline and connect future talent with career opportunities.

    Presented by the Carolina Ford Dealers, the competition allowed students to demonstrate their skills through hands-on, on-vehicle challenges after weeks of preparation with dealership mentors. Throughout the day, dealers engaged with students during interviews, a career fair, and a Dealer & Student Q&A, highlighting the critical role dealerships play in developing tomorrow’s technicians.

    The event concluded with a Winner Circle ceremony, awarding more than $30,000 in college scholarships to the top teams:

    • 1st Place: Career Academy & Technical School Team 4 – Randy Marion Subaru
    • 2nd Place: Hickory High School – Mike Johnson’s Hickory Toyota
    • 3rd Place: Forest Hills High School Team 1 – Honda of Indian Trail

    “This competition connects students directly with dealers and reinforces the importance of growing our technician workforce,” said GCADA Executive Director Ahmad Halawi.

  • Madison Chemical introduces new parts cleaner

    Madison Chemical introduces new parts cleaner

    Madison Chemical introduces SPRAY-KAB P-10000 ,which is formulated to remove grease, oil, carbon deposits, and more from engine blocks, transmissions, and other automotive or industrial machinery components.

    Specifically designed for single stage spray cabinets, this company said its formulation contains a balanced blend of surfactants and foam control agents to clean while prolonging tank life. The combination of cleaning efficacy and extended tank life ensures economical results when compared to high-end spray cabinet cleaners.

    SPRAY-KAB P-10000 is formulated to be ideal for automotive and heavy truck remanufacturing facilities, industrial machinery repair and rebuilds, equipment re-manufacturing, or anywhere that grease, oil, and carbon deposits need to be completely removed.

    Normal use conditions are 2 to 8 oz/gallon, at 160°F to 180°F. For heavily soiled parts, longer tank life can be achieved by steam cleaning prior to high-pressure cabinet cleaning, as this keeps more grease and oils from the main tank solution. 

    Madison Chemical Technical Sales Representatives are available to assist in determining dilutions, dwell time, standard operating procedures and more, to achieve optimal results.

  • Recalls: Mitsubishi, VW and Ford all have issues to address

    Recalls: Mitsubishi, VW and Ford all have issues to address

    Several; major automakers recently announced recalls for several problems, all of which will repairs at no expense to the vehicle owners.

    Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. is recalling some 2018-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and 2014-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander vehicles. The cylinder of the liftgate gas spring, which contains high pressure gas, can corrode due to salt water penetration. This can reduce the cylinder’s wall thickness and cause the gas spring to rapidly lose pressure. A gas spring losing pressure may potentially cause the liftgate to fall unexpectedly or the cylinder to rupture. Dealers will replace the left and right liftgate gas springs with countermeasure liftgate gas springs that improve cylinder corrosion resistance.

    Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. is recalling some 2019-2024 Audi e-tron and 2020-2024 Audi e-tron Sportback vehicles. VW said the screw connection from the input rod on the brake pedal to the actuator rod on the brake booster may not have been performed according to manufacturing specifications. This may cause the screw connection to disconnect. If a complete separation occurs, vehicle braking would only be possible using the emergency braking function. Dealers will inspect the pushrod screw joint in the brake booster and, if necessary, torque it to the correct specification.

    Ford Motor Company is recalling some 2025 Ford Maverick and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with a 1.5L or 2.0L Modular Power Cylinder. engine and an engine block heater. Affected vehicles may experience overheating of the block heater while the vehicle is parked and the block heater is plugged in due to coolant vapor or air being trapped around the heating element. Overheating of the engine block heater in these vehicles may increase the risk of fire. Dealers will either replace the block heater element with a different design and inspect or replace the electrical cord , or replace the engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug and remove the cord from the engine compartment free of charge.

  • ASE offers certification tests for medium and heavy-duty trucks

    ASE offers certification tests for medium and heavy-duty trucks

    Automotive service professionals looking to renew or enhance their certifications are reminded that the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers T-Series certification tests that verify the proficiency of professional service technicians who work on medium and heavy-duty trucks.

    “The ASE medium and heavy-duty truck certification exams allow service professionals to demonstrate to employers and customers that they possess the skills and expertise needed to service and repair trucks across all class levels,” said Dave Johnson, president and CEO of ASE. “Passing these rigorous ASE truck certification exams give technicians the confidence of knowing they rank among the best in their field.”

    Designed to identify and recognize medium and heavy-duty truck technicians who demonstrate knowledge of the skills necessary to diagnose, service and repair different systems of Class 4 through Class 8 trucks and tractors, ASE offers eight T-Series certification tests. The tests include gasoline engines (T1); diesel engines (T2); drive train (T3); brakes (T4); suspension and steering (T5); electrical/electronic systems (T6); heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) (T7) and preventive maintenance inspection (T8). Those who are certified in tests T2–T8 are recognized as ASE Certified Master medium-heavy truck technicians.

    ASE offers a free, online study guide that contains test specifications, tasks lists, sample test questions and training resources.

    For more information about ASE truck tests and other ASE tests, visit www.ase.com/test-series.

  • ASE Instructor Training Conference set for July in Texas

    ASE Instructor Training Conference set for July in Texas

    Registration continues for the 16 th annual ASE Instructor Training Conference. The conference, the largest event of its kind, is scheduled for July 20-23 in Frisco, Texas, outside of Dallas.

    The keynote event, entitled “Filling the Farley Gap: Addressing the Technician Pipeline,” will discuss Ford CEO Jim Farley’s recent statement that the automotive technician shortage is a growing threat to the industry.

    The panel discussion, moderated by Chris Messer, executive vice president with EndeavorB2B, uses data from IMR Inc.’s Perceptions of the Trades WrenchWay’s Voice of the Technician Survey, ASE Education Foundation’s Student Survey, and more, to unpack the root causes of the shortage, from rising education and tool costs to pay plan challenges and increasing vehicle complexity.

    This premier national training event is presented by the ASE Education Foundation and offers more than 20 hours of technical update training with separate tracks for auto, medium/heavy truck and collision repair instructors.

    The ASE Instructor Training Conference also features networking events and a sponsor expo. Nearly 300 high school and college instructors from auto, truck and collision repair programs across the country attended the last year’s conference in St. Louis.

    To learn more and register for the 2026 ASE Instructor Training Conference, click here.

  • GreatWater adds another shop in Ohio

    GreatWater adds another shop in Ohio

    GreatWater 360 Auto Care has expanded its presence in Ohio with the addition of Source 1 Automotive in Maineville, Ohio, bringing its total number of locations in the state to nine.

    The addition reflects a deliberate focus on building regional density in key markets like southern Ohio, allowing GreatWater to provide stronger operational support, shared resources, and a more consistent customer experience across its network, according to a statement from the company.

    As GreatWater’s footprint in Ohio has grown, so has its ability to support shop teams through closer market alignment, shared talent resources, and more consistent operating practices.

    Source 1 Automotive joins recent acquisitions in the greater Cincinnati area, including two Day Heights Auto Service locations, contributing to a network that is increasingly connected at the local level while supported by centralized systems.

    “As we continue to grow in Ohio, we are focused on building a network that works well together,” said Jim Dykstra, Chief Executive Officer of GreatWater 360 Auto Care. “Adding Source 1 Automotive strengthens that network and allows us to better support our teams and customers across the region.”

    Source 1 Automotive has built a reputation in the Maineville community through consistent service, technical capability, and a customer-first approach. The shop provides a full range of automotive services, from routine oil changes, brakes and tires to advanced diagnostics and repair.

    The business will continue operating under the Source 1 name with the same team in place. Customers can expect the same service they have come to trust, now enhanced by additional resources and services like 24/7 online appointment scheduling and work backed by GreatWater’s 3 year/36,000 mile nationwide warranty.

    The growing density of locations within the greater Cincinnati allows for stronger collaboration between shops, improved field support, and greater consistency in how operations are executed across the market.

    “Regional density makes a difference in how effectively we can support our shops,” said Scott Anderson, President & Chief Operating Officer of GreatWater 360 Auto Care. “It allows us to stay closer to the business, reinforce best practices, and provide a higher level of support to each location.”

    GreatWater now operates across Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Kentucky, Texas, Missouri, and Minnesota, with a continued focus on expanding in markets where it can build long-term operational strength.

  • Ryder opens new truck rental and maintenance facility in Alabama

    Ryder opens new truck rental and maintenance facility in Alabama

    Ryder System, Inc. is expanding its Southeast presence with the opening of a new 10,000-square‑foot full-service commercial truck rental and maintenance facility in Huntsville, Alabama. Located near Exit 7 off I-565 and seven miles from I-65, the facility provides access to fleet, rental, and maintenance services in one of Alabama’s fastest-growing industrial and logistics markets.

    Positioned near major automotive manufacturers, food distributors, and government operations, the Huntsville location strengthens Ryder’s port-to-door logistics service model and supports customers across North Alabama’s expanding supply chain ecosystem. The site features four full drive-through maintenance bays, one half bay, and 24/7 self-service fuel island. RyderGyde technology and a self-service check-in kiosk provide real-time fleet visibility, diagnostics, and shop status updates.

    “This expansion underscores Ryder’s commitment to supporting customers in high-growth manufacturing and logistics markets,” says Tom Havens, president of Fleet Management Solutions at Ryder. “Huntsville’s strong infrastructure and accelerating activity across automotive, aerospace, and government operations make it a natural fit for expanding our service footprint. Tech-enabled solutions at this site ensure customers have the speed, visibility, and reliability they expect.”

    The Huntsville location includes a rental counter, driver lounge, and 160 parking spaces with available trailer parking. LED lighting, upgraded ventilation, and modern safety upgrades support efficient shop operations. Services include commercial truck rental, full-service leasing, fueling, and on-site and mobile maintenance services to support customers.

    As demand grows, the Huntsville facility is expected to create new opportunities for skilled technicians, rental agents, and customer service professionals. Open positions are available at ryder.com/careers

  • Snap-on diagnostic software updates now available

    Snap-on diagnostic software updates now available

    Snap-on has announced its spring software upgrade is now available.

    Featuring the latest vehicle coverage and extensive manufacturer-level codes, data and tests, automotive technicians who update their diagnostic platforms with the new software will have access to what they need to be efficient and productive in the service bay.

    “Our vehicle and system coverage is constantly evolving with regular updates designed to keep pace with manufacturer and industry changes,” said Helen Cox, marketing and client services director, Snap-on Diagnostics. “Consistent navigation and terminology across all vehicle makes, advanced data graphing capabilities and fast access to frequently used specifications and capacities mean that with current software, technicians are always ready to tackle even the toughest jobs that come their way.”

    Highlights of the new software include 2025 model year updates for 15 manufacturers, new vehicle specific content for 50 manufacturers and 2026 code scan and clear for 33 supported OEMs. Plus, technicians have continuous access to manufacturers’ secure gateways, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Volkswagen, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Volvo, Ford, Hyundai and Kia, at no additional cost from Snap-on.

    It also features exclusive guided component tests and images to locate components faster, helping to speed up and simplify the diagnosis and repair process. This data is continually enhanced and updated with information based on real experiences, straight from technicians and validated by Snap-on engineers, which means thousands more SureTrack real fixes, PID flags, images, tests and tips. Technicians get everything from previous software releases as well for smarter fixes that lead to complete repairs and satisfied customers.

    Since the software upgrade is packed with new content, Snap-on is explaining some of the highlights as well as providing insights into diagnostic processes and procedures in their monthly software focus series. The full schedule is available on the website.

    Upcoming topics include:

    • Completing transmission jobs, including Hyundai IVT TCU pressure relearn
    • Guided component testing for BMW VVT position sensor and three phase fuel pump
    • New inertial measurement unit recalibration on a Volvo XC90
    • New manufacturer added to guided component testing – Porsche
    • Forced door lock self-test for Nissan Frontier
    • Dynamic aiming special function for the Mazda CX-50/CX-90

    Technicians and shop owners who are already software subscribers, those who have purchased a prepaid plan or have participated in a free software offer, can perform their own software installation quickly and easily by downloading the latest software release through the ShopStream® self-service application. Platform instructions are available on the website.

    For more information about Snap-on products and industry exclusive features, contact a participating Snap-on Franchisee or other sales representative, or visit snapon.com/diagnostics.

  • McKee Foods tech cleans up at TTA competition

    McKee Foods tech cleans up at TTA competition

    The Tennessee Trucking Association held its annual Technician Skills Competition recently, and announced the winners.

    The overall competion’s top finishers included:

    • 1st Place – Kyle Kiser, McKee Foods
    • 2nd Place – Brad Calfee, Walmart
    • 3rd Place – Glenn Booth, Rush Truck Centers

    Station winners were:

    • Recommended Practices – Brad Calfee, Walmart
    • Remote Diagnostics – Kyle Kiser, McKee Foods
    • Service Information – Kyle Kiser, McKee Foods
    • Electrical – Kyle Kiser, McKee Foods
    • Tire Monitoring Systems – Homer Knight, McKee Foods
    • Engines – Ryan Makurat, Old Dominion Freight Line
    • Brakes – Matthew Booker, Dobbs Peterbilt
    • Fasteners – Glenn Booth, Rush Truck Centers
    • Wheel End – Brad Calfee, Walmart
    • Written Test – Brad Calfee, Walmart
  • National Technician Appreciation Week set for June 14-20

    National Technician Appreciation Week set for June 14-20

    Honoring the hard work and commitment of professional technicians, the American Trucking Associations and ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council announced today that the seventh annual National Technician Appreciation Week will be held June 14-20.  This year’s theme is “Celebrating technicians that keep us moving.”
     
    “Trucking operations run around the clock and cover hundreds of billions of miles to deliver to virtually every home, workplace, and business.  Our nation owes enormous gratitude to the hardworking men and women who keep our trucks well maintained and ensure the wheels of our essential industry continue to turn,”  said ATA President & CEO Chris Spear.  “I look forward to celebrating National Technician Appreciation Week, when we will join Americans from coast to coast to thank technicians for their knowledge, skill, and attention to detail.  Their professionalism and commitment to upholding exacting standards enhance the efficiency of our supply chain and help to keep everyone on the road safe.”
     
    Professional technicians perform one of the most demanding and critical roles in trucking. NTAW acknowledges the extraordinary efforts and talent of these dedicated professionals.
     
    “We are pleased to announce the dates for the seventh annual National Technician Appreciation Week to recognize the professional technicians who are indispensable to trucking operations,” said TMC Executive Director Robert Braswell.  “By ensuring vehicles are safe and ready for service, technicians make it possible for drivers to deliver the goods we all rely on.  This week is an opportunity for both the industry and the public to show their appreciation and thank these professionals for the critical work they do every day.”