<a href="/publications/1-ratchet-wrench" class="current-issue-dropdown__title-link">Current Issue

A shop owner reviews a digital tire gauge that provides users with a timely, hands-free tool that finds the right PSI.

Making the Most of Limited Shop Space

June 21, 2018

When you have limited space out of which to work, you need to put together a team-oriented staff and keep everything as efficient as possible. Here's how Dave McClung churns out $1.05 million annually out of 2,343 square feet of space.

[unpublished version]

Kukui

You Can’t Manage What You Don’t Measure

May 8, 2018

By breaking down customers leads, Kukui helps shops figure out where to best spend its marketing budget

Transitioning to a New Management System

May 7, 2018

Owner Bill Gurney dealt with a range of issues while implementing his first new electronic management system in 19 years.

Building a Culture of Training

April 20, 2018

One shop’s dedicated approach to industry training keeps its techs on the cutting edge of vehicle technology.

How to Make Effective Facebook Videos

April 19, 2018

Facebook videos are a great way to get your shop exposed on social media. With the new Facebook algorithm that promotes interactive content, having creative videos on your page that your customers can interact with is a great way to get your content seen.

Customer Communication in the Digital Age

April 18, 2018

2 Comments

Two shop owners detail how text message services helped improve their shop's customer service.

Kukui

A Full Circle Online Marketing Approach

April 10, 2018

From building a website to analyzing the data—Kukui is with its customers throughout

Identifix

A Quicker Diagnosis

April 5, 2018

With an extensive database of real-world and OEM repair information, Direct-Hit helps shops make the diagnosis and repair in less time

AUTEL

Insurance-Ready Scan Reports

April 3, 2018

Autel is supporting the needs of repair technicians by focusing on the collision repair industry

TekMetric

Shop Management System Designed by Shop Owners

April 3, 2018

Unhappy with what was available, two shop owners created their own shop management system

BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY

The Digital Pay Off

April 3, 2018

Investing in BOLT ON’s digital inspection will cut down on wasted time and raise AROs

Mitchell 1

Save Time, Sell More

April 2, 2018

Mitchell 1’s Manager SE is an all-encompassing shop management system that solves common headaches in a shop

Inspection Perfection

February 16, 2018

5 Comments

AJ Nealey largely credits a 70 percent rise in ARO to his digital inspection policy

OEC

Technology: The Driver of Change

February 12, 2018

With technology advancements coming at an unprecedented rate, repair shops need to start preparing for what’s to come

How to Effectively Use Facebook Messenger

February 1, 2018

Moving Targets CMO Jenna Gross details three ways Facebook Messenger can help you communicate with your customer base.

Using Uber as a Unique Customer Service

January 17, 2018

Noura Elmanssy

How one shop’s use of Uber changed the face of customer convenience.

7 Essential Repair Information Techniques

December 22, 2017

Better navigate through repair information to improve efficiency, throughput and your bottom line

Four Steps for Going Paperless

December 20, 2017

2 Comments

Everything your shop needs to go 100 percent digital

Q&A: How Blockchain Technology Could Affect Your Shop

December 11, 2017

5 Comments

A little known technology, called the Vehicle Lifecycle Blockchain, could have a major impact on labor pricing in the automotive repair industry. Ratchet+Wrench spoke with CarFix co-founder Vladimir Lupenko to learn more about the major blockchain company.

GM to Produce 20 EVs by 2023

October 2, 2017

The automaker is working to reach its zero emissions goal by developing at least 20 new all-electric vehicles that are expected to launch by 2023.

How to Benefit from the Growing Mobile Service Market

October 1, 2017

2 Comments

Ed Petersen envisions a future where mobile service companies and physical shops partner, funneling more light repairs through mobile units and high-dollar work through shops. Here is what you need to know about the rising mobile repair market, why Tesla is embracing it, and how your shop could possibly profit from a partnership.

How Apps Will Improve Auto Care Shops’ Access to Vehicle Data

August 23, 2017

As connected car technology continues to sweep the automotive industry, access to OEM data is becoming more and more readily available. Here’s what you need to know about the growing relationship between app developers and OEMs, and how it’s improving shops’ ability to digitally connect with drivers for service.

Diagnostic Challenges and Solutions

June 30, 2017

Kelly Beaton