HERNDON, Va.-Nearly 75 percent of automotive repair technicians are anxious to change the public's image of their profession. That was the finding of a survey conducted by Stanford University Press & Consulting Psychologists Press in conjunction with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
Forty-six percent of the survey's respondents would like additional perks and benefits, while 45 percent want changes in their supervisors' management style.
Wheel cracks prompt recall
WASHINGTON-The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced a recall of several General Motors Corp. vehicles for possible steel wheel defects.
The recall affects 1988-90 models of the Buick Regal, Oldsmobile Cutlass, Pontiac Grand Prix, and 1990 Chevrolet Lumina. The vehicles are equipped with Kelsey Hayes models RPO PB9 14-inch and PG1 15-inch steel wheels.
The agency said cracks occuring in the wheel mounting surface can become severe enough to cause the wheel to separate from the vehicle.
New tapes feature management tips
FLORENCE, Ky.-A new service dealer management training program focusing on efficiency and profitability is available on videotape from All Pro/Bumper to Bumper, an automotive marketing association.
The series-entitled ``If you always do what you always did''-consists of seven 35- to 55-minute video cassettes accompanied by a self-paced training workbook and self-administered test covering each topic.
Topics covered include customer relations; finding good personnel; productivity; charging properly for work; computerized business management; and marketing and sales.
Tapes are available for $79.95 each or $419.95 per set. For more details, contact All Pro at (606) 282-1166. Fax: (606) 282-8651.
Carquest offers $20 ASE rebate to techs
TARRYTOWN, N.Y.-Long a supporter of technician training, Carquest is making it easier for mechanics to become certified.
The company, based in Tarrytown, is offering auto technicians a $20 rebate toward registration for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence's (ASE) fall certification exams.
The tests will be held Nov. 2, 7 and 9 at more than 600 locations nationwide.
The ASE holds tests every May and November covering 25 areas of automotive repair. Techs can obtain registration material at their nearest Carquest stores.