How can I improve the efficiency of my service advisors?

Consider implementing training programs that focus on using available tools and software effectively. Regular performance monitoring can also help identify areas for improvement.

What role does technology play in shop management?

Modern technology, such as shop management software, can streamline processes, reduce downtime, and improve communication between technicians and service advisors.

What is the ideal technician-to-advisor ratio?

A ratio of 2 to 2.5 technicians per service advisor is generally considered optimal for maintaining efficiency and productivity in a shop.

Why is continuous education important for technicians?

Continuous education helps technicians stay current with new technologies and repair techniques, which is essential for maintaining efficiency and quality in repairs.

How can shop owners encourage their technicians to pursue training?

Shop owners can create a training game plan, offer incentives for attending classes, and bring in instructors for on-site training to make education more accessible.

What is the benefit of using electronic testing methods?

Electronic testing methods can save time and improve diagnostic accuracy, allowing technicians to identify issues more quickly without disassembling components.

How many hours of training should technicians complete each year?

Technicians should aim for a minimum of 40 hours of training annually, but more is encouraged to stay updated with industry changes.

What is the benefit of a systematic approach to diagnostics?

A systematic approach helps technicians efficiently narrow down issues, reducing diagnostic time and improving accuracy in repairs.

How can shop owners support their technicians' education?

Shop owners can support education by providing time for training, attending classes with their technicians, and creating a culture that values continuous learning.

What should I do if I'm feeling overwhelmed in my automotive job?

It's important to reach out for support, whether through counseling or talking to colleagues. Taking care of your mental health is crucial.

How can I keep up with the evolving technology in the automotive industry?

Engaging in continuous education, attending trade shows, and networking with other professionals can help you stay informed about new technologies.

What is the best way to communicate repair costs to customers?

Be transparent about the costs involved and explain the reasoning behind them. This helps manage customer expectations and builds trust.

What should I do if my shop management system doesn't integrate with PartsTech?

It's time to upgrade your shop management system to one that offers better integration options, like Shopware.

How can I improve my diagnostic skills as a technician?

Practice regularly with your diagnostic tools and take hands-on training classes to build muscle memory and confidence.

What is the importance of customer education in automotive repair?

Educating customers about the repair process and the value of diagnostics helps build trust and justifies the costs associated with repairs.

What is gross profit and why is it important?

Gross profit is the revenue remaining after deducting the cost of goods sold. It's crucial for understanding how much money is available to cover operating expenses and generate profit.

How can I effectively manage my shop's overhead costs?

Regularly review your P&L statements to identify rising costs and adjust your budget accordingly. Consider negotiating with suppliers and cutting unnecessary expenses.

What should I look for in a shop management program?

Choose a program that allows easy tracking of markups, margins, and overall financial performance. It should also integrate well with accounting software like QuickBooks.

← Diagnostics & Repair

Charging for Diagnostics

How to price and sell diagnostic time — ending the free check-engine-light trap, setting a diagnostic fee, and getting paid for testing.

6 episodes

Confessions of a Shop OwnerMay 19 · 52 min

Ep 92 - Mike Allen and Bryan Pollock | Should Advisors Be On Flat Rate?!?

Register for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference in Huston April 9-11 and use Code CONFESSIONS500 for $500.00 off. HERETurnkey Marketing takes the stress of doing something I'm not good at off my plate. And gives it to someone who is. Click HERE for more.Elite Worldwide has CHANGED my business and life through their one-on-one coaching. Use them like I do HEREFor years I thought I could handle the hiring process on my own. But, after far too many bad hires, it was clear I needed help. Promotive came through for me with a rock star hire in just a few days and I couldn't be happier. Swallow your pride and bring in Promotive for that open position you have at your shop today. You can thank me later. Learn more HEREAI for Shop Owners: Open the Hood of the Future is happening June 12-13 at Carfix in Raleigh, NC. Use AI to your advantage! Register HEREIn this episode, Bryan Pollock and Mike Allen take a shot at service advisors. Well...not out of hate, out of a comp on how we treat technicians. Why can shop owners treat techs a certain way, but when they approach advisors with a similar stance, it's the end of the world? Something to chew on. They also dissect the myth that more advisors are always the answer, showing how deep-dive analysis can reveal wasted hours and productivity bottlenecks. And of course, they have some spicy, unfiltered fun, taking swings at industry sacred cows like the “300% rule” and sharing why making your own AI tools (and adopting top-tier shop software like Tekmetric) can boost both sanity and profits.Timestamps:00:00 Kicking off with a classic: Service advisors and efficiency “WTF” moments03:44 Are podcasts ruled by ADHD? (Spoiler: Absolutely)04:36 Lessons from Becky Witt & Hunt Demarest07:13 Techs-to-advisor ratios and what shops get wrong08:52 Where does the advisor’s time really go? Company-wide honesty hour10:07 The “unaccounted for” hours—every shop’s dirty secret12:24 Why mental gear-shifting kills productivity (and everyone’s guilty)14:07 Investing big in software and still doing things “the old way”16:07 Bridging the front-to-back gap: Should advisors have to see every repair?19:31 Switching to Tekmetric: Will Bryan ever actually do it?22:59 Real shop, real talk: One tech per bay and the volume game27:20 Training, conferences, and why small events can outshine the big names29:31 Free diagnostics, efficiency, and why some shops should re-think their value31:35 Can great techs break the rules? The real value of experience34:08 Should customers pay for your learning curve?38:38 Average effort = average pay (and why that’s actually okay)40:49 Diagnostic rates, shop profitability, and the marketing money trap42:45 Getting left behind: AI, chatbots, and the future of shop work43:09 Upcoming class: Build your own AI shop agent & get your hoodie!48:53 Final confessions, hoodie reveals, and a not-so-subtle jab at 300% stores

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Remarkable Results RadioMay 26 · 34 min

From Guesswork to Process: Modern Diagnostic Strategies for Auto Repair Shops [RR 1093]

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Recorded live at the 2026 TST Big Event, Carm Capriotto sits down with automotive trainer Ken Zanders to discuss the importance of ongoing technical education, building efficient diagnostic processes, and adapting to rapidly evolving vehicle technology. Ken explains why too many shops still rely on a chaotic “grocery list” approach to repairs and how a structured diagnostic strategy can dramatically improve technician efficiency, profitability, and customer trust. What You’ll Learn Why inefficient diagnostic habits directly reduce technician productivity, shop profitability, and overall earning potential.The importance of following a structured diagnostic workflow instead of guessing and replacing parts.How electronic relative compression testing with a lab scope and amperage probe can reduce diagnostic time from hours to minutes.How modern vehicle technologies like GM’s Vehicle Intelligence Platform (VIP) and Over-The-Air (OTA) updates are changing diagnostics and repair procedures.Why continuous education is no longer optional for automotive professionals working on today’s advanced vehicle systems. The biggest takeaway from this episode is that repair shops cannot afford to operate in constant chaos and guesswork. A reactive “grocery list” approach to diagnostics leads to wasted time, unnecessary parts replacement, lower profits, and poor customer outcomes. To succeed in today’s increasingly complex automotive industry, shop owners must create a year-round training strategy that helps technicians diagnose efficiently, think critically, and continuously improve their skills. Structured processes, modern testing methods, and ongoing education are no longer advantages; they are necessities for survival and growth. TST Big Event: https://tstseminars.org/ Ken Zanders, Dorman Training Don’t Base Your Success On Probability – Ken Zanders [RR 822]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e822/ Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm   The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/ Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/ The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/ Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm                 <a...

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Remarkable Results RadioApril 28 · 38 min

Detective Mind Mapping: A Forensic Approach to Automotive Diagnostics [RR 1089]

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Recorded live at the TST Big Event 2026, host Carm Capriotto sits down with Andrew Fischer, shop manager at Cergizan's Auto and Truck Repair in Northwest Indiana, and an industry trainer. Andrew shares his disciplined, process-driven approach to diagnostics, his passion for technician development, and why shop culture plays a defining role in long-term success. From daily habits to big-picture philosophy, this conversation is a roadmap for building more confident, capable technicians. What You’ll Learn: Why committing to at least 40 hours of continuous education each year can dramatically reduce comebacks and improve shop performanceHow to build learning into daily routines: whether through short practice sessions, webinars, or online training resourcesThe power of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and why “going rogue” in diagnostics leads to inefficiencyHow Andrew’s “detective mind mapping” technique helps technicians visually organize problems and accelerate accurate diagnosesWhy revisiting foundational knowledge is critical and how ego often prevents technicians from mastering the basicsHow embracing failure strengthens diagnostic ability and builds real-world expertiseThe importance of capturing and studying “known good” vehicle data to improve accuracy on future repairs Great diagnostics is about discipline, process, and constant learning. Shops that invest in their people, reinforce foundational skills, and create a culture where failure fuels growth will not only solve problems faster but build stronger, more resilient teams. TST Big Event: https://tstseminars.org/ Andrew Fischer, Cergizan's Auto and Truck Repair, Burns Harbor, IN. Fischer Automotive Consulting and Training Services: factsautomotive@gmail.com Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: Visit the Website:https://remarkableresults.biz/Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriottoFollow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/Follow on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/Follow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club:https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmastersJoin Our Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976Join our Insider List:https://remarkableresults.biz/insiderAll books mentioned on our podcasts:https://remarkableresults.biz/booksOur Classroom page for personal or team learning:https://remarkableresults.biz/classroomBuy Me a Coffee:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carmSpecial episode collections:https://remarkableresults.biz/collections The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcastwith Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion.https://remarkableresults.biz/Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Zwith Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/Business by the Numberswith Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/The Auto Repair Marketing Podcastwith Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/The Weekly Blitzwith Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/Speak Up! Effective Communicationwith Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.https://craigoneill.captivate.fm                                          

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The Jaded MechanicApril 14 · 1h 41m

Fleet Work vs Auto Repair and Why Mental Health Needs More Attention | Riley Spence

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsorsNeed to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERELaunch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HEREIn this episode, Jeff sits down with Riley Spence to talk about his move from the dealership world to working on a fleet for a construction company out in remote Labrador. Riley shares what it’s really like dealing with tough northern conditions, from tracking down parts to handling low-quality fuel. They also speak on mental health, the importance of having a strong community in the industry, and why continuing to learn and connect with others matters so much as a technician.Timestamps:00:00 Getting a second chance09:54 Managing equipment in dusty conditions12:40 Issues with quick lube services20:20 Dealing with self-doubt and burnout23:22 Challenges of being an apprentice27:34 Managing tough diagnostic situations36:13 Reflecting on career burnout37:37 Why I avoid working at dealerships45:19 Learning from skilled coworkers49:50 Reality of heavy equipment trades55:32 Pursuing skills over big money01:03:27 Outdated info in truck systems01:05:47 Fleet maintenance and master switches01:10:14 Frustrations with car parts stores01:15:45 Auto repair process improvements01:20:11 Discussing challenges in key programming01:29:34 Meeting online friends in person01:31:01 Managing questions during courses01:36:20 Advice on understanding older people Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

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Changing the Industry PodcastApril 13 · 59 min

Episode 264 - The Value of Diagnostics, Hands-On Classes, & Finding Happiness With Tim Iezzi & Ira Waldman

Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABEShop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman are joined by Ira Waldman and Tim Iezzi, who share their experiences with technical training and diagnostics in the automotive industry. Ira Waldman explains the value of comprehensive accident investigations and how data pulled from vehicles is increasingly crucial for liability and repairs. Tim Iezzi and Ira Waldman detail their hands-on training classes, emphasizing the importance of practicing with equipment to build real skills. Throughout the conversation, the group discusses challenges facing trainers—including undervaluation and barriers to fair compensation—while reflecting on what true success looks like in the industry.00:00 Consulting work and accident investigations04:58 Calibration data and liability concerns08:48 Lab scope training launch11:32 Practicing lab scope basics15:25 Common mistakes using scopes19:03 Importance of planning and tools20:10 Teaching procedural oil change steps24:46 Improving technician education27:00 Training value and budget changes32:48 Challenges faced by fitness trainers36:16 Launching the training company39:46 Impact of low-cost car markets41:29 Covid’s impact on auto repairs47:30 Troubleshooting equipment issues50:25 Defining personal success52:21 Interviewing successful people54:28 Thanking the audience

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Repair Shop ReckoningApril 3 · 44 min

Breaking Down The Cost Of Doing Business

Most shop owners don’t have a pricing problem. They have a numbers problem and it’s costing them more than they realize. In this episode, Kevin breaks down what actually happens to every dollar that comes into a shop and why so many owners are busy,...

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Questions answered on charging for diagnostics

Practical questions on charging for diagnostics, answered across the catalog — each linked to the episode it came from.

How can I improve the efficiency of my service advisors?: Consider implementing training programs that focus on using available tools and software effectively. Regular performance monitoring can also help identify areas for improvement.
What role does technology play in shop management?: Modern technology, such as shop management software, can streamline processes, reduce downtime, and improve communication between technicians and service advisors.
What is the ideal technician-to-advisor ratio?: A ratio of 2 to 2.5 technicians per service advisor is generally considered optimal for maintaining efficiency and productivity in a shop.
Why is continuous education important for technicians?: Continuous education helps technicians stay current with new technologies and repair techniques, which is essential for maintaining efficiency and quality in repairs.
How can shop owners encourage their technicians to pursue training?: Shop owners can create a training game plan, offer incentives for attending classes, and bring in instructors for on-site training to make education more accessible.
What is the benefit of using electronic testing methods?: Electronic testing methods can save time and improve diagnostic accuracy, allowing technicians to identify issues more quickly without disassembling components.
How many hours of training should technicians complete each year?: Technicians should aim for a minimum of 40 hours of training annually, but more is encouraged to stay updated with industry changes.
What is the benefit of a systematic approach to diagnostics?: A systematic approach helps technicians efficiently narrow down issues, reducing diagnostic time and improving accuracy in repairs.
How can shop owners support their technicians' education?: Shop owners can support education by providing time for training, attending classes with their technicians, and creating a culture that values continuous learning.
What should I do if I'm feeling overwhelmed in my automotive job?: It's important to reach out for support, whether through counseling or talking to colleagues. Taking care of your mental health is crucial.
How can I keep up with the evolving technology in the automotive industry?: Engaging in continuous education, attending trade shows, and networking with other professionals can help you stay informed about new technologies.
What is the best way to communicate repair costs to customers?: Be transparent about the costs involved and explain the reasoning behind them. This helps manage customer expectations and builds trust.
What should I do if my shop management system doesn't integrate with PartsTech?: It's time to upgrade your shop management system to one that offers better integration options, like Shopware.
How can I improve my diagnostic skills as a technician?: Practice regularly with your diagnostic tools and take hands-on training classes to build muscle memory and confidence.
What is the importance of customer education in automotive repair?: Educating customers about the repair process and the value of diagnostics helps build trust and justifies the costs associated with repairs.
What is gross profit and why is it important?: Gross profit is the revenue remaining after deducting the cost of goods sold. It's crucial for understanding how much money is available to cover operating expenses and generate profit.
How can I effectively manage my shop's overhead costs?: Regularly review your P&L statements to identify rising costs and adjust your budget accordingly. Consider negotiating with suppliers and cutting unnecessary expenses.
What should I look for in a shop management program?: Choose a program that allows easy tracking of markups, margins, and overall financial performance. It should also integrate well with accounting software like QuickBooks.

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