Technology is all around us and it has become a part of us.  It makes the world more transparent whether  we like it or not.  In an instant I can look up a  car wash in my area and find out what others are saying about it.  No need to even go there myself to […]

I use my smart phone, laptop, tablet  and desktop on a daily basis.  All 4 devices have become a part of how I interact with the world on a daily basis.  Each device has its own purpose for me but one thing all 4 devices share in common is the internet.  I use all these

Just a few days ago, I discussed QR codes and utilizing smartphone technology to engage customers.  Interestingly enough I came across a product from Auto Data, a fast lube/ car wash POS software provider, called the eSticker.  What makes this software unique is it allows your customers to scan a QR code that directs them

This is a app introduced by Mac Tools to help organize over 5000 diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) in one place – your smartphone.  Typically, anyone who is diagnosing a DTC will have access to a definition table but what if you are a customer who was told the code by a servicing shop for a

Are you familiar with OpenTable?  If not, it allows restaurant patrons to make reservations online via any internet enabled device (i.e. computer, phone) without having to wait in a line or call to book a reservation.  It’s an interesting tool because restaurants who are not using the service maybe missing out on opportunities to fill

Anyone in the automotive repair/fast lube industry will be able to recognize that motor oils are changing to benefit fuel economy targets.  In the U.S., it is mandated by the year 2016 all vehicles produced for sale in the U.S. will have an average fuel economy of 35.5 mpg.  Manufacturers will be able to reach

Over the past few months I have had the opportunity to connect with the founder of Scrubblade, Billy Westbrook, and his innovative scrubbing wiper blade. The unique part about this wiper blade is it goes beyond helping to improve driver visibility during precipitation because it also helps to improve driver visibility through debris. To put

Consumers are keeping their vehicles longer and for an average of 8.5 years.  This is a clear indication of the economic turbulence of the past few years but this is also an indication of the longevity of the modern gasoline engine.  I just finished reading an article on the Quaker State 400 000KM cash back

About 8 months ago I came across a software called ClearMechanic (CM).  The software utilized smart phone technology to allow a technician to visually recommend a repair.  Here is how it would work: while doing an oil change the technician notices a leaking transmission gasket, he takes a picture with his iPhone or Android using