Auto Service Goes High-Tech

Increasingly, automotive repair and service is becoming a high-tech profession, note officials with the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Old images die hard, but yesterday's mechanics have become today's technicians, complete with hand-held computer diagnostic tools and a wall full of credentials attesting to their abilities.

In a recent poll of ASE-certified automotive technicians, over four-fifths said they used a computer on the job, more than two-thirds said they owned a computer at home, and over half said they had access to the Internet.

"The profession is being revolutionized," notes ASE President Ronald Weiner. "Brute force has been supplanted by brain power. If you don't think so, just look under the hood of one of today's sport coupes or SUVs. This is rocket science-or very close to it. Today's auto technicians need to be master diagnosticians, well versed in electronics, and have smooth customer service skills." Auto technicians face components and repairs virtually unheard of a generation ago: on-board computers, electronic fuel injection, and antilock brakes, to name but a few advances.

Fortunately, the requirements on motorists are much less. According to ASE, a major component of satisfactory auto repair is good communication between shop and customer.

ASE suggests that consumers read their owner's manual to become familiar with the basic systems and the service intervals. Once at the repair establishment, be prepared to describe the symptoms; but do not suggest a specific course of repair. Do not be embarrassed to ask questions or definitions of technical terms. Don't expect an on-the-spot diagnosis, but ask to be apprised of the problem, course of action, and costs before work begins. And, be sure you understand policies regarding diagnostic fees, labor rates, return of old parts, and guarantees, ASE advises.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was founded in 1972 as a non-profit, independent organization dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians.

ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia and carry credentials listing their exact area(s) of certification. Walt Massey Automotive is proud to have these top technicians!

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Chevrolet Awards Detroit Pitcher New Corvette for Great Performance

DETROIT – Chevrolet awarded Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga a 2010 Corvette convertible, recognizing his outstanding performance on and off the field.

Galarraga retired 26 consecutive Cleveland Indians batters on Wednesday evening. The 27th and final batter, Jason Donald, hit a routine ball in the hole between first and second base. Tigers’ first baseman Miguel Cabrera fielded the ball and threw to Galarraga, who stepped on first base, apparently before Donald touched the base and was called safe.

Galarraga kept his cool, returned to the mound and retired the next batter to record a one-hit, 3-0 shutout, throwing just 88 pitches.

GM North American President Mark Reuss, who presented a Chevrolet Corvette to Galarraga at today's game against the Cleveland Indians, said the way the pitcher had handled the incredible events deserved to be recognized regardless of what record books would ultimately show.

Reuss said he had known the Ilitch family, owners of the Detroit Tigers, his whole life and the family has always been a great supporter of General Motors.

"It is only fitting we help give back for all the Ilitches have done for Detroit and to celebrate Armando’s pitching and sportsmanship during one of the most captivating evenings in Tigers history.”

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