Seminars | Automotive Service & Technology Expo

Friday September 27, 2019 – Morning Sessions

A Fail-Safe Path to Profit – Rick White, 180Biz

Finally, you understand your financial statements and maybe even how to calculate the metrics. Now what? This class will take you to the next level of detail showing you a foolproof road to profitability. We will talk about the metrics, what they mean and how to use them to manage your business understanding that these numbers are simply a ruler to evaluate the health and success of your shop(s). Too often shop owners focus so much on the numbers that the customer gets ignored in the process. We teach you that your financials are merely a measurement of how well you are servicing your customer. We will show you how to use your financial metrics in conjunction with standards and customer success factors to achieve a surefire path to profitability.

In this class you will learn:

What financial metrics are most important and how to use them
About standards and customer success factors
How to build your own profit model
To create your unique foolproof path to profit

ADAS – Dirk Fuchs, ZF Technologies

ZF/TRW Chassis and ADAS Technology

ZF/TRW chassis systems are present in every second car on our planet. This shows the large OE business what TRW is representing. In this class you will learn a deep inside in TRW chassis technology.

The class we starting with the foundations of chassis dynamics and with different axle systems like Mc Pherson and Multi-link suspension systems.

The participant will understand why the count of control arms is increasing in today’s vehicles and why TRW OE designed, low friction ball joint generation is so important for servicing current vehicles.

Electro-mechanical steering systems was the first step to autonomous driving and vehicles are equipped with this system since the beginning of this century.

TRW is as well one of largest steering systems producers and the participant will learn the influence of these systems to the suspension system. Replacing, servicing and diagnostic of this system will be taught as well.

TRW Driver assistance functions is in today’s vehicles more and more present and vehicles starting to see, think and act. The attendee will learn how to identify this systems and how assistance systems have an influence on the steering and brake system. At the end, the participant will learn how to perform a basic setting on radar systems.

After completing this training, the participant will be able to:

Describe components within the suspension system
Explain different chassis angles and angle settings
Describe Kamm’s circle
Differentiate between popular chassis systems
Describe multi-link suspension system
Explain toe in curve and proper settings of the toe in curve
Identify electric steering systems
Describe common failures related to the suspension in steering systems
Identify proper wheel alignment
Identify different driver assist functions and their operations
Describe functions and impacts of radar and camera systems
Show basic settings of radar and camera systems

Chassis, Steering and Suspension: Noise, Vibration and Harshness Analysis – David Patrick, CARQUEST

Since man began to build machines for industrial use, and especially since motors have been used to power them, problems of vibration reduction and isolation have engaged engineers. Gradually, as vibration isolation and reduction techniques have become an integral part of machine design, the need for accurate measurement and analysis of mechanical vibration has grown. Over the last 15 or 20 years a whole new technology of vibration measurement has been developed which is suitable for investigating modern highly stressed, high speed machinery. Using piezoelectric accelerometers to convert vibratory motion into understandable data, the process of measurement and analysis is efficiently performed by the versatile abilities of these electronics. This class will show you how to use modern techniques to identify the vibration source, track the transfer path and pinpoint the responding component.

Diesel Emissions and Exhaust Aftertreatment – Keith Glasgow, AC Delco

Modern diesel engines are subject to increasingly stringent emission regulations and monitoring requirements. This seminar will prepare technicians to effectively diagnose and repair diesel exhaust emission reduction failures by developing an understanding of the emissions created by diesel engines and the systems designed to reduce those emissions. Both pre- and aftertreatment systems will be covered. Specific systems and components will include intake air swirl and heating, glow plugs, exhaust gas recirculation, oxidation catalysts, diesel particulate filtration, NOx reduction technologies, selective catalyst reduction, and diesel exhaust fluid. Technicians will strengthen their diagnostic techniques by focusing on the conditions used by the Engine Control Module (ECM) to set codes related to these systems, developing an understanding of how false codes could be set, and determining the root cause of any code or failure. Common failures will be covered.

From Zero to $1Million in Sales in One Year – Ron Ipach, Repair Shop Coach

In this 3-hour seminar, Ron will reveal the exact same Million Dollar Blueprint used by 3 different shop owners that catapulted their auto repair shops from startup to $1M, $1.2M and $1.4M in their very first year. More importantly, Ron will show you how to apply these same marketing, sales, systems, and hiring strategies in your shop to help it quickly grow to any size you want it to be.

Grid Charging, Diagnosis and Repair – Craig Van Batenburg, ACDC

There are the 3 levels of charging that any plug-in can use. 4 ratings for level II. 2 types of Fast Chargers. Do you know what an EVSE is? Plug-in cars are growing in sales. Want to get a quick education? If your customer’s plug-in car will no longer charge, do you know how to help them?

How To Use The StoryBrand Framework To Clarify Your Message – Kim Walker, Shop Marketing Pros

Many leaders, marketers, salespeople, and managers are simply ignored. It’s not because they aren’t smart, hard-working, or likeable. It’s because they aren’t communicating clearly. The human brain is drawn to CLARITY and away from confusion. If customers are confused about what you offer, they’ll look past you for somebody who can relate to them clearly. Once you clarify your message, your company will begin to grow! Attendees will leave this workshop having learned how to craft a clear message. Develop your own unique “one-liner” and experience the “website fishbowl” exercise where we evaluate volunteer attendee websites live in class.

Quick Check Diagnostics – John Forro, AST Training

After attending this course, the student will be able to perform new age style of diagnostic tests to replace older more time consuming conventional diagnostic tests such as compression testing, cylinder leakage tests etc.

Topics Covered:

Making drivability profitable: Students will be presented an overview of the class regarding how we came up with these tests while performing our mobile diagnostics jobs. They will relate to the need for these tests as technology evolves to not only save time but also to perform tests easier as opposed to major engine disassembly in some cases.

New Age tests: Students will be presented with a list of the tests will be covering in each section of the course. They will also be presented with the procedures for performing the tests.

Engine mechanical tests: Students will learn the following, relative compression tests, cylinder leakage vacuum testing, pressure transducer testing replacing the conventional tests for compression, valve timing, restricted exhaust, and cylinder leakage tests.

Activity: Students will spend time in a shop environment performing these tests on live vehicles...

Ignition system testing: Students will learn the following tests. Primary ignition system current ramping and ignition trigger diagnostics which are used to replace the conventional tests which are all but impossible to do on today’s vehicles such as ignition voltage pattern testing and individual cylinder testing due to most vehicles having an intake manifold covering access to at least half of the spark plug coil pack assemblies. Students will also learn to use mode 6 to diagnose random cylinder misfires.

Activities: Students will spend time in a shop environment performing these tests on live vehicles

Fuel system tests: Students will learn new age fuel pressure and volume testing using a scan tool , or scope or pressure transducer as opposed to a mechanical gauge since most vehicles no longer have a test port. Students will also learn current ramping of fuel injectors to find shorts, opens and restrictions. Students will learn how to see if the fuel pump is failing and also how restricted the fuel filter may be all without ever having the need to open the fuel system. Finally tests for leaking injectors will be covered again without having to open the fuel system.

Computer controls tests: Students will learn how to use volumetric efficiency calculators, fuel trim, air trim and mode 6 to determine such problems as EVAP, misfires, Faulty computers, vacuum leaks, out of calibration MAF sensors and more. Often times problems within these areas will set no DTC.

The Pressure is On (Pressure Transducer Class) – Bernie Thompson, WorldPac

The techniques in this class can be applied to any scope and transducer combination. Bernie will use case studies to demonstrate pressure transducer data analysis as it relates to engine operation. Case studies in this class use Automotive Test Solutions (Bernie Thompson’s Company) scope, transducers, and software.

Become an expert on Exhaust Pressure Transducers and Scope set up.
Make Random Misfire Codes fast and easy to identify cylinders and to diagnose.
Know when a P0300 - Random Misfire Code is not a misfire.
Understanding In-Cylinder Running Compression waveform analysis.
Quickly identify restricted exhaust thru the spark plug hole.
Learn to diagnose and identify camshaft timing and phasing issues.
How to diagnose valve sealing problems, including intermittent issues such as broken valve springs.
Discover how to identify piston and ring sealing problems.
Locate ignition timing problems thru the spark plug pressure transducer

Friday September 27, 2019 – Afternoon Sessions

Effective Electrical Troubleshooting: General Motors Stop-Start Technologies – David Patrick, CARQUEST

General Motors introduced the first Stop-Start system on the 2014 Chevy Malibu as standard equipment and now have over 21 models using Stop-Start technologies. Implementing automated stop-start technology in today’s vehicle’s is a cost-effective way to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. A Stop-Start system operates by shutting off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete standstill, and automatically re-starts the engine when the driver releases the brake pedal. This operating strategy is often utilized in full hybrid-electric vehicles that have powerful electric systems but is also becoming more popular in non-hybrid vehicles that use traditional starter/battery configurations. Topics include: •Dual battery and control methods used to isolate the electrical systems during Autostop/Start •Robust starter motor technologies-Dual Tandem Starter design and operation •Capacitor and DC-DC (Transformer) Control Stop-Start systems •Common components found on each system •Stop-Start input and output control logic •DTC descriptors and scan tool diagnostic evaluation methods •Important best service practices to handle working on GM vehicles equipped with Stop-Start systems

Electric Motor Testing– Craig Van Batenburg, ACDC

Electric Motor Testing and Replacement … Learn a new simple trick to test the strength of the magnets on the rotor. How about an ohm meter so accurate you can measure the length of a single wire. ACDC has been having some fun with analyzing the best techniques with affordable equipment. We will have live demonstrations at class.

How to Become a Talent Magnet – Rick White, 180Biz

How to Become a Talent Magnet

Description: Let’s look at some sobering facts:

Unemployment is at an all-time low.
The talent pool for quality technicians & advisors is shrinking.
The old ways of chasing and finding potential help aren’t working any more.

Our experience shows that it takes an average of seven months to replace a great tech and we see that number only growing. Waiting for someone to leave to recrit for their replacement gets you “Mr. Right Now” in desperation instead of “Mr. Right.” Like Apple and Google, you need the best talent banging down your door every day. This class teaches you how to become your own Talent Magnet and get exactly that.

In this course you’ll learn:

The mistakes you’re making in your hiring process right now.
What the top 1% need and want from a company to come on board and stay.
Strategies to turn your business into a “Talent Magnet”.

You will stop chasing top talent and start attracting them. You and your amazing team will become a Talent Magnet and bring the cream of the crop right to your front door.

Lab Scopes – John Forro, AST Training

After attending this course, the student will have a thorough understanding of the use and interpretation of a lab scope along with mastering the skills of Setting up voltage scales, time base, trigger values and attaching the scope to a component to acquire a waveform. Substantial time will also be set aside to cover the interpretation of the waveform (s) in class.

Topics Covered:

Why Scopes? Students will be presented the value of a pictured waveform as compared to just a static voltage type reading as found on a DVOM. Students will be presented with the various types of lab scopes found in the market today and the benefits of each of the various types. Several types of optional scope accessories will be discussed throughout the course as well.

Terms and Definitions: Students will learn the following terms and what each term represents; time base, voltage scales, A/C vs. D/C coupling, trigger level, trigger slope, frequency , shape and glitch. Students will be shown examples of each of the definitions in class. Automotive pre-sets will be discussed in detail along with scope navigation during this segment of instruction.

Activity: Students will perform basic settings on their scope during each of the terms explanation listed above. A special emphasis will be enforced on the need to accurately set each scales listed above.

Acquiring waveforms: Students will be presented various example waveforms from various components and circuits during instruction. An analytical deciphering of each of the waveforms will be discussed during this segment of class. Various computer controlled strategies will be discussed so that the student will learn what they should expect the displayed waveform to look like.

Activity: Students will use the supplied boards to acquire the 5 types of commonly found automotive waveforms. During the use of the scope and board, the student will show mastery of setting all the various settings discussed above.

Interpreting waveforms: Students will be shown several sample waveforms taken from vehicles. The class will discuss how the expected waveform should appear and what if anything could be causing the appearance of the waveform on the screen. A great deal of time will be spent on using the waveform as a diagnostic tool during this section of instruction. ALL areas of computer controls, ignition systems, fuel systems and component testing will be used as examples in this section.

Activities: After covering the interpretation section in detail, students will once again use their scopes in the classroom environment with the leads attached to the instructors signal generator to interpret various waveforms. This time however, a special emphasis on trigger will be reviewed.

Current Ramping: Current Ramping and the current probe will be covered in great detail. Proper scaling of the current probe and placement of the leads will be discussed. Settings of the scope while using the probe will also be discussed in detail for the various component testing associated with current ramping as found in the automotive industry. A thorough discussion of the voltage and current waveforms will be discussed in class at this time by showing the two types of waveforms shown side by side on the screen from various components. Various known good specifications and waveforms will be provided in the student’s classroom manual to be used as a reference for the technician long after the class is over.

Activity: Students will perform various forms of current ramping on live vehicles in a shop environment.

Ignition/Fuel /Sensor and Actuator testing: Students will use their scopes to acquire several waveforms on live vehicles in a shop environment from various ignition system, fuel system, sensors and actuators proving their ability to master scope usage and waveform acquiring. Students will also be asked to interpret the waveforms they acquired from the various vehicles proving their mastery of interpretation.

Network testing: Students will attach their scope leads to the ALDL connector to the data bus circuits. A quick explanation of networking will be given and the students will be shown how this type of testing can be used to determine potential causes of the dreaded no communication message found at times on their scan tools.

Various other activities: Students will be given worksheets to perform tasks on live vehicles in a shop environment. ALL areas listed above will be performed on the said work sheets. Instructor will act as coach during the work sheets completion.

Light Duty Diesel Problems, Diagnostics & Tips – TJ Abrams, Jasper Engines

This seminar will platforms Ford 6.7L Scorpion, 6.7 Cummins and the 6.6L Duramax. Diagnostics and pattern failures will be covered

Power Steering Technology – Keith Glasgow, AC Delco

This seminar will cover some of the electric power steering systems found today. Including the components and operation, diagnostics and servicing these electric power steering systems. Even though electric power steering technology is expanding into more vehicles, let us not forget that many vehicles on the road still have hydraulic power steering. Additionally, some unique features of new technology found in electronically enhanced hydraulic systems, as well as diagnostic and service tips will be discussed.

Shop Technology Timeline: Where is your shop on the timeline? – Chris Cloutier, Autotextme.com

As owners, we want to increase productivity, improve efficiency, and enhance the customer experience we provide in our automotive repair shops. But, now that we all offer a free bottle of water, we need to make a bigger impact. We need technology to help build our competitive advantage to separate us from the rest of the pack. In this class, Chris Cloutier will discuss the three stages of technology, describe where the majority of shop owners are, and define the progression of advanced shop owners. Do you have a web presence? Are you using a digital vehicle inspection? Are you adopting telematics? Find out where you're located on the timeline.

Transitions – Preparing for the Next Generation – Jim Silverman, ATI

Within 5 years, millennials will represent over 50% of the employed workforce. Join Jim Silverman, from ATI, for a critical look at how this new generation will radically effect our sales, marketing, business culture, recruiting, managing, and retaining employees. Discover why many values that baby boomers hold dear are NOT embraced by millennials and how you need to change to ensure success. Whether you plan to sell your shop, give it to your kids, or get a much younger manager to run it for you so you can retire, you’ll learn important information to help you survive and thrive in this new era.

VW/Audi 4 Cylinder (E888) Engines – Cameron Conover, WorldPac

In-depth Discussion of Known Mechanical Faults and Repair

Camshaft Bridge Issues on 4-Cyl. Engines
Critical VW and Audi Part Supersessions
Best Carbon Deposit Cleaning Methods. What Tools Work Best
Timing Chain Tensioner Issues and Repair Techniques for CCTA (2.0 L) Engine

Engine Management

Direct Injection Fuel System Operation and Evolution
Turbocharger - Diagnosis and Effective Fixes for Boost DTCs
Audi Valvelift System Operation, Common DTCs and Repairs
Variable Camshaft Timing Design and Function
VCDS and Scan Tool Navigation and Use, including How and When to Adapt Individual Components

EVAP and Exhaust Emissions - Components, Operation, Diagnosis, Repair

Cooling Systems Repair Tips, Tools

Saturday September 28, 2019 – Morning Sessions

Around the Wheel Master Class – Greg Neuenfeldt, Garage Gurus

“The Around the Wheel Master Class is a session designed for technicians, advisors/service writers, service managers, store managers, and owners. Learn how brakes, chassis, steering, tires, and ride control interact – and why your customer should think about replacing their shocks and struts. One of the most undersold categories for any service facility is ride control. Replacing shocks and struts helps to extend the life of a vehicle, increasing the bottom line today and increasing the potential of maintenance and repair opportunities in the future. A four-step process walks you through the customer interview, test drive, component inspection, and replacement recommendations. Involving both the bay technician and the service advisor roles, the course stresses the importance of your shop team working together. Learn how to overcome objections, easily track ride control performance, and provide your customer with the best recommendation for this typically high-dollar service. Join us for this fast-paced session to generate revenue for your business and keep your customers in their current vehicles longer.”

Automotive Electrical - from A to CAN – Jeff Bly, NAPA

You know the name of many testing techniques, but do you know how to perform these tests, or analyze their results? We will teach you how to determine the proper test for any situation. Learn to utilize high and low current probes; demystify AC coupling and what to use it for; when to, and when not to, use scope filtering. Capture relative compression from any B+ measurement without digging into the trunk or under the seats to reach the battery. Learn to breakdown ignition waveforms and use your power probe without letting the smoke out. We'll show you how to cure hard to fix drive-by-wire problems when electrical noise is the issue. Learn short finding techniques that work using tone generators. Go deep into Controller Area Networking (CAN), bust some myths and break the codes hidden inside.

Coaching and Counseling for Employee Success – Rick White, 180Biz

Every employee, including your superstars, can reach higher levels of performance. All they need is a manager who can coach. Some who will regularly watch, assess, and interact with each employee in ways that will develop and maximize their individual effectiveness. Coaching your employees one-on-one will raise their level of performance making sure you can get the most out of your team. In this class, you will practice coaching techniques like how to ask open ended questions to draw the best from your employees. Owners and managers who want to improve results and get higher performance from their team should absolutely attend.

In this course, you will learn to:

Improve or develop your ability to coach
Close the gaps between what you have and what you want in performance and outcomes
Challenge your best performers to greater levels of success
Integrate coaching seamlessly into the daily interactions with your people

Effective Electrical Troubleshooting: Modern Charging Systems and Power Distribution – David Patrick, CARQUEST

Are you replacing the alternator unnecessarily? When faced with an illuminated BAT, GEN or ALT light that’s on what do we do on a late model vehicle equipped with a computer-controlled charging system? The connected development of next-generation electrical and electronic architectures (EEA’s) has led to a whole new level of balance between modern batteries and the charging systems that support the vehicles electrical needs. The modern charging system is designed to maximize the effectiveness of the generator, manage loads, improve battery state of health and life, send diagnostic messages to alert the driver, and minimize the systems impact on fuel economy. This course will cover: •Electrical power management designs •Regulated voltage control for ignition off and on demand •Battery state of charge, health and function •Alternator pulley diagnosis overrunning alternator pulley (OAP) and decoupler (OAD) •Charge indicator message interpretation •Modes of charging system operation

Going Toe-to-Toe with Google & Yelp: How to Win in the Marketing Arena – Danny Sanchez, Autoshop Solutions

You need to know what you’re up against in the marketing arena. But rather than thinking of Google and Yelp as the opponent, it’s time to start thinking of them as vehicles you can use to drive your business forward! They might need a little maintenance, a repair here and there, but once they’re in shape, they’ll have you running at top speeds in no time. Join AMI-accredited instructor Danny Sanchez, as he blends his experience as a former repair shop owner with his current expertise as CEO of Autoshop Solutions, a digital marketing agency for the auto

HVAC used in Plug-in and Electric Cars – Craig Van Batenburg, ACDC

Pure Electric cars have a problem. There is so little waste heat you cannot heat the cabin. Using the high voltage battery for everything is the way they work, but the least amount of amps required gives the car or truck more range on a single charge. A lot has happened in the Heating and Cooling department. Get caught up.

Information: You Can’t Fix a Car Without It – Donny Seyfer, NASTF

Tours of new website features for automakers and 3rd party information

How scan tools can have their capabilities extended by integration with web content

How cloud based data can be utilized by technicians to diagnose intermittent drivability issues while the customer drives the car

Tips for identifying what you will need before the vehicle arrives.

What does service ready mean in 2019 and beyond?

Scan Tool Diagnostics – John Forro, AST Training

After attending this course, the student will have a thorough understanding of the typical features found on various OEM and aftermarket scan tools. A detailed understanding of scan tool navigation, terminology and features on their specific scan tool will be obtained.

Topics Covered:

Choosing a scan tool: This section of the course will discuss various differences commonly found on scan tools in the market place today. Students will take this information given to them and use it to make a decision of which type of scan tool would be best suited for the task at hand.

Choosing a communications protocol: Students will learn what a protocol is, and more importantly which protocol would be best utilized when trying to diagnose the vehicle they are working on.

Activity: Students will use their scan tool to access various protocols and systems found on the vehicles they have in their repair facility. Students will also choose to access an all-inclusive module pinging which will show any potential issues that may inter relate to the system they are currently working on. A detailed explanation as to why this is an important step will be provided.

Interfacing various modules: Students use their tools to interface as many modules on the network that the sample vehicle provides. Once the various modules have been interfaced, great amount of time will be spent looking at the various capabilities that can be achieved while talking with each of the modules.

Diagnostic trouble codes and data stream: During this section, students will use their tools to pull DTC’s from the entire vehicle network. They will then use their scan tools to monitor the applicable PIDS from those DTC’s both while in a shop environment and also while road testing taking a movie with their scan tools. Once back at the shop a review of the movie will be discussed as a group by the class.

Activities: Road test with movie mode

Bi-directional testing: Students will use their scan tool to perform several bi-directional tests available. They will learn how to perform these tests with their specific tools and also the diagnostic testing strategy importance with this type of testing...

Graphing PIDS: Students will be shown how to sample/view PIDS in a graph mode assuming their scan tool has this capability. Once they have acquired various PIDS being graphed on their scan tool screens, the instructor will explain the importance of using this feature found in nearly ALL scan tools on the market today.

Other features: Depending on the tool being used, any and all other features that have not yet been previously discussed will be gone over both in a classroom and shop environment. Student can use not only the shop supplied scan tools, but also any scan tool provided for use in class as well as their own personal scan tool Questions will be answered on all...

What to do / No Communication messages: Students will be introduced controller area networking and the data bus circuitry found on 2007 and newer vehicles. Students will learn what steps will need to be taken to get their scan tools communicating to the various modules on the network once they’ve retrieved the dreaded no communications message.

Activity: Use of an OBD II DLC breakout box, DVOM, and a network box to perform diagnostics on a CAN circuit.

Understanding Fuel Injection – Bernie Thompson, WorldPac

Bernie makes complex technology simple as he dissects fuel injection system issues:

Fuel delivery calculations
The diagnostic relationship between
Fuel Trim and Volumetric efficiency
It's all about the air
Mass Air Flow Diagnostics
Volumetric Efficiency (VE)
Foundation and Diagnostics

Saturday September 28, 2019 – Afternoon Sessions

Automatic Transmission Diagnostics – Dirk Fuchs, ZF Technologies

ZF 8 Speed Automatic Transmission diagnostic for

Chrysler, Jeep, BMW, Volkswagen/Audi, Jaguar, Land Rover, Maserati, Aston Martin, Bentley and Rolls-Royce

German precision and technology for a large variety of international Car manufactures. This class will cover the 8 speed transmission technology for all listed manufactures and will start with the fundamental facts about torque converter technology. The torque converter is the biggest heat source as well as a large error source in an automatic transmission. The participant will learn different torque converter failures and how to diagnose this properly.

During the class, the participant will gain full working knowledge of this 8 Speed transmission. The greatest take away from the seminar is the understanding of how the transmission shifts and how to read the specific shifting matrix what is important for diagnostics.

One of the most important diagnostic information is the transmission adaptation. The participants will learn how to read and interpret the different values with a diagnostic tool. Additional topics covered are the Limp Home function and coding issues. The presented knowledge allows the participant to quickly diagnose common errors.

Nothing is finished without an oil change. The class will conclude with an overview of the transmission oil fill, the variety of different oil and filter change possibilities and the procedure how to evacuate the oil fill in the torque converter and to set the oil level correctly at the end.

After completing this training, the participant will be able to:

List internal components of the ZF 8 Speed transmission
Describe the function of the torque converter and lock up clutch
Describe differences between pressure regulators and solenoids
Explain the shifting strategy of the ZF 8 Speed
Analyze transmission adaptation values
Explain an oil change service procedure
Explain how to properly check the oil in the transmission
Describe the common failure of the ZF 8 Speed

Digital Tools – Documentation & Communication – Scott Brown, Diagnostic Network

Most everyone today is using a smartphone with a fairly sophisticated built-in camera. This camera makes it easy to document findings when working on vehicles today. When used properly, technician communications skills carry higher value and make it easier for the front office to sell needed services and repair. Students in pursuit of a career in the service industry should be prepared to deliver communication assets that clearly tell the story. Additionally, while the student is learning their trade, they should be aware that the experiences they're encountering should be documented which will go a long way in supporting their work experience portfolio as they enter the workforce. Maximize the use of your digital tools in order to bring a higher level of professionalism to your personal brand. The course will include: Simple techniques you can begin to apply immediately in order to capture much clearer images, video and digital data displayed from your PC. Photography theory and terminology review. How to quickly capture, annotate, organize and store data displayed from any PC based application including scan tools, scopes and more. Learn about applications shops today use to help increase internal communications. Once you complete this session you’ll be able to better leverage the power of your digital devices and access online resources like a pro!

Get Five Star Reviews on Google Yelp, and Facebook – Kyle Eisenberg, Broadly

When consumers are searching online for auto shops in your area, does your business show up? Whether potential customers are evaluating a new shop or are following up on a referral from a friend, it’s imperative that your business stands out and shine.

Learn how you can bolster your shop's online presence to attract new customers.

In this session, we’ll discuss:

How to leverage free tools on Google My Business
How to generate five-star feedback for your business on Google, Yelp, and Facebook
Best practices for modern websites to drive more leads.

Attendees will learn how to use free tools to take control of and improve your business’s online pages, and learn customer follow-up strategies that can be applied immediately.

J-2534 Domestic Programming Update – David Patrick, CARQUEST

J2534 is a constantly changing arena of technology. As the need for programming in the shop bay increases, especially with mandated OE diagnostic software being provided for use with a J Device, technicians have to be more familiar with the J2534 process. This class will focus on the need for J2534 today. The current information for hardware setup, software configurations, and changing OE websites will be covered in detail. Topics will include: • Computer and operating system setup • Java and Browser security configurations • J Device selection and management • OE websites and APIs. • The reprogramming process • Problems and solutions

Next Generation Car Count Strategies That REALLY Work! – Ron Ipach, Repair Shop Coach

In this seminar, Ron Ipach (aka Captain Car Count), will cut through all of the confusing clutter of online and offline marketing and will show you exactly what is working best, right now, for hundreds of shop owners across the country. You’ll also discover 6 free (or very low cost), easy to use strategies, that can attract up to 3 to 5 more vehicles in your shop every week. BONUS: All attendees will also receive free access to Ron’s 19-video marketing course that will help you apply these strategies when you get back to the shop.

Real World Service Programming – Keith Glasgow, AC Delco

This seminar will teach technicians the most current methods for programming new, or updating existing, electronic control modules in various manufacturers’ vehicles. This course looks at some of the tools available to the aftermarket for programming. The manufactures’ websites that contain programming information will be discussed. After completing this course, technicians will be able to describe the tools and resources necessary for reprogramming electronic control modules.

Variable Valve Timing – John Forro, AST Training

After attending this course, the student will have an understanding of the principles, operation and testing procedures for variable valve timing systems. They will be able to identify system components and have a thorough understanding of how they are designed to function.

Topics Covered:

System Overview: Students will be presented an overview of hydraulic and electronic variable valve timing circuits. The lack of EGR systems will also be discussed in great detail.

Types of systems? Students will learn the subtle differences between various types of hydraulic circuits found on vehicles today. These systems have a greater tendency for failure so an emphasis on these systems will be placed.

Activity: Students will disassemble a rotor type and a helical style hydraulic actuator to gain a better understanding of their designs...

Hydraulic circuit tests: Students will be presented a series of tests involving the use of a hydraulic pressure gauge and a scan tool to show the proper testing of the hydraulic circuits and components.

Electronic circuit testing: In a shop environment, students will be shown how to perform pin point electrical tests on the cam phasor solenoid, cam and crank sensors using a digital multi meter.

Scan tool diagnostics: Students will be presented with several slides showing the proper usage of a scan tool to aid in the diagnostic process of the variable valve timing system. These tests include bi-directional tests and PID values.

Lab scope testing: Students will learn how to correctly use their lab scope or graphing meters to perform diagnostics on the electrical circuitry of the system. An overview of using a pressure transducer to determine if the engine is in time will also be covered.

Following TSB’s: Students will be shown several TSB’s from various manufactures regarding engine sludge and DTC’s stored for the variable valve timing circuits. These TSB’s are a must to follow when servicing these specific engines.

Various other activities: Depending on the difficulty of the engines available, students may take oil pressure gauge readings on live vehicles along with using their scan tool to perform specific bi-directional features found on various vehicles.

VW/Audi 4 Cylinder (E888) Engines – Cameron Conover, WorldPac

In-depth Discussion of Known Mechanical Faults and Repair

Camshaft Bridge Issues on 4-Cyl. Engines
Critical VW and Audi Part Supersessions
Best Carbon Deposit Cleaning Methods. What Tools Work Best
Timing Chain Tensioner Issues and Repair Techniques for CCTA (2.0 L) Engine

Engine Management

Direct Injection Fuel System Operation and Evolution
Turbocharger - Diagnosis and Effective Fixes for Boost DTCs
Audi Valvelift System Operation, Common DTCs and Repairs
Variable Camshaft Timing Design and Function
VCDS and Scan Tool Navigation and Use, including How and When to Adapt Individual Components

EVAP and Exhaust Emissions - Components, Operation, Diagnosis, Repair

Cooling Systems Repair Tips, Tools

You Can’t Manage What You Don’t Measure - Jimmy Lea, Kukui

Google Ads is one of the best tools your shop can use to bring in customers, both new and existing. Google Ads campaigns can help grow your incoming leads and revenue. Come to learn what your ROI should be on Google Ads! Learn how quick and easy it is to add new Custom Content. Why your Name Address and Phone Number must be consistent across all business directories! Why is Google giving more weight to a Mobile Site than they ever have before?! How can you make sure you are showing the best for Local SEO?!

Communicate with your customers easier than ever! Come learn how to quickly blast email to your customer, Create a Campaign for Lost Customers, Track your email results to discover open rates and click through rates.

Everyone likes getting 5-Star Reviews, but did you know that receiving a regular stream of quality reviews on Google is one of the most important ranking factors for local SEO. It is a strong indication of credibility and trust which is a key ranking factor. Of course, the main reason to be in charge of your online reputation is to continuously build that trust and credibility which attracts new customers. Over 80% of people who search for products and services online read reviews first before making a decision to buy. If you’re not currently utilizing Google reviews, you’re potentially missing out on advantages that your competitors may be utilizing.

The Digital Vehicle Inspection improves the way shops communicate with customers and creates full transparency for the motorist into the repair process. With the DVI, technicians will find ease in uploading photos, video, notes, and annotations along with a simple recommendation list. The easy to use mobile application provides a more personalized and detailed way of communicating vehicle inspection results to customers - which is proven to increase repair orders by 20% or more.

These days your customers are getting hundreds of emails from companies, making the one you sent them easier to get lost. Follow Up will easily separate you from the competition whether you chose: Email, Text Messages or a "Good 'ol Fashioned" phone call.

Keep track of who you called, what their mood was like, and internal notes you can share with the team. The Follow Up will even let you help build the value of getting that customer back into the shop.

Come learn the many Best Practices you need to implement in you shop, no matter what platform you utilize today. These are tested and proven methods for increasing your Car Count and ARO.