Dealer Tech Fluffy Mexicanik Talks Shop Culture and Burnout
About this episode
Fluffy the Mexicanik joins the Jaded Mechanic Podcast to discuss the challenges of shop culture, including burnout and the impact of dealership dynamics on technicians. He shares his personal journey of leaving a long-term dealership due to dissatisfaction and the importance of a supportive work environment. The conversation dives into the realities of repair costs, the need for transparent communication between technicians and customers, and the evolving landscape of automotive repair financing options. Fluffy emphasizes the need for understanding the true costs behind service rates and the importance of technician well-being.
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In this episode, Jeff welcomes back Fluffy Mexicanik. They discuss the realities of working as a dealership technician. Fluffy shares his reasons for leaving a dealership after nearly 13 years, stressing the importance of shop culture and the challenges of flat rate. Together, they talk about how labor times are set and the impact of dealership processes on technician efficiency.
Timestamps:
00:00 Efficient Transmission Repair Practices
15:01 Slashed Labor Times Impact Profit
30:38 "Service vs. Sales Priorities"
40:57 "Frustrations with Inefficient Procedures"
46:50 "Incentivized Pay vs. Flat Rate"
56:22 Reflecting on Expertise and Humility
01:12:39 "Uconnect Reliability vs. Durango Issues"
01:24:02 "Car Not Designed for Winter"
01:35:36 "Chuck's Truck Troubles Explained"
01:45:48 "Brake Jobs: Quality vs. Speed"
01:57:02 Defending Industry Workers’ Rights
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reman units
"...we were having, you know, we'd have reman units on the, on the shelf ready to go..."
Reman units are car parts that have been fixed up and made to work like new again. They can be cheaper than buying brand new parts and usually come with a guarantee.
Reman units, or remanufactured units, are components that have been restored to like-new condition by replacing worn or damaged parts. This process can be more cost-effective than buying new parts and often comes with a warranty.
labor costs
"...there's a grand just in labor, you know what I mean? And so yeah, the prices are ridiculous..."
Labor costs are the money you pay for the work that mechanics do on your car. This can change depending on how complicated the repair is and what the shop charges.
Labor costs refer to the expenses associated with the work done by technicians or mechanics to repair or service a vehicle. These costs can vary widely based on the complexity of the job and the rates charged by the service provider.
CVT
"...they can't buy a CVT on their. On their credit card. You know, what's nice about these financing options..."
A CVT is a special kind of automatic transmission that helps cars change gears smoothly without the usual steps you feel in regular transmissions. It can help save fuel and make driving feel smoother.
A CVT, or Continuously Variable Transmission, is a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of effective gear ratios. This allows for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
door rate
"And yet they. They just hate on the technician because of the. The door rate. And it's. We've had so many good conversations in the last little while about what that door rate actually entails."
The door rate is how much a shop charges per hour for repairs. It includes the costs of running the business and the services they offer to customers.
The door rate is the hourly labor rate charged by a repair shop or dealership for services. It covers various costs, including employee wages, overhead, and amenities provided to customers.
mass airflow sensor
"...somebody goes down to O'Reilly's and grabs something and throws in a car. Mass airflow, as an example. And there's no warranty on the part."
A mass airflow sensor is a part that helps your car's engine know how much air is coming in. This helps it mix the right amount of fuel with the air for better performance.
A mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine, which helps the engine control unit adjust the fuel-to-air ratio for optimal performance. Replacing it can be necessary if it fails, but warranty coverage may vary depending on where the part is purchased.
All Data Pro
"...we go by a standard called All Data Pro, I think. Pro, man. Right, Mitchell."
All Data Pro is a tool that repair shops use to find information on how to fix cars. It provides guides and details about repairs.
All Data Pro is a software platform used by automotive repair shops to access repair information, service manuals, and labor guides. It helps technicians diagnose and fix vehicles accurately and efficiently.
Identifix
"Identifix is another one, I believe."
Identifix is a service that helps mechanics find solutions to car problems. It gives them access to helpful information and tips for fixing cars.
Identifix is another automotive repair information service that provides technicians with access to a database of repair solutions, diagnostic tips, and technical support. It helps improve repair accuracy and efficiency.
labor time
"...those times are dropping. Those manufacturers are going back into All Data, these labor guides, and they're correcting..."
Labor time is how long a mechanic thinks it will take to fix something on your car. It's important for figuring out how much you will pay for repairs.
Labor time refers to the estimated amount of time a mechanic is expected to take to complete a specific repair or service on a vehicle. This time is often used for billing purposes and can vary based on the complexity of the job.
Nissan Pathfinder
"...call out a, a front motor mount on a vehicle. Right. A V6 Pathfinder. I'm gonna just throw it out there..."
The Nissan Pathfinder is a type of vehicle called an SUV, which is larger and can carry more people and cargo. It's designed for both everyday driving and off-road adventures.
The Nissan Pathfinder is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and off-road capabilities. It has undergone several generations of redesigns since its introduction in 1985, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
front motor mount
"...call out a, a front motor mount on a vehicle. Right. A V6 Pathfinder..."
A front motor mount is a part that holds the engine in place in a car. It helps reduce shaking and keeps everything aligned properly while you drive.
A front motor mount is a component that secures the engine to the vehicle's chassis, helping to absorb vibrations and maintain proper alignment. It plays a crucial role in engine stability and performance.
Nissan Murano
"...I mean, I had that happen to me on a Murano. A Murano paid like three and a half..."
The Nissan Murano is another type of SUV that is known for being comfortable and stylish. It's great for families and has a lot of modern features.
The Nissan Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV known for its stylish design and comfortable interior. It has been in production since 2002 and is popular for its smooth ride and advanced technology features.
Nissan Versa
"...if you had to do that Versa coil spring recall, you probably remember like you didn't get your three hours for that..."
The Nissan Versa is a small, affordable car that many people use for everyday driving. It's known for being practical and easy to park.
The Nissan Versa is a subcompact car known for its affordability and practicality. It's often used for city driving and is popular among budget-conscious consumers.
struts
"Well, where I first saw that bluff was one on struts and a lot of the Nissan stuff. Like I can remember, you know, it was like three hours to a pair of struts..."
Struts are parts of a car's suspension system that help keep the ride smooth and stable by absorbing bumps from the road.
Struts are a type of suspension component that support the vehicle's weight and absorb shocks from the road. They are crucial for maintaining ride quality and handling characteristics.
fuel pump
"...when it comes to, let's say, that fuel pump issue, you have to know. Okay, you know what? I know I'm not getting fuel..."
The fuel pump is a part that moves gasoline from the tank to the engine so the car can run. If it doesn't work, the car won't start or run properly.
The fuel pump is a critical component that delivers fuel from the tank to the engine. It ensures that the engine receives the right amount of fuel for optimal performance.
Nissan Rogue
"...condemned your CVT and your, you know, five year old Nissan Rogue, okay. You know, you got this Nissan Rogue paid off..."
The Nissan Rogue is a small SUV that many people use for everyday driving. It's known for being reliable and having a lot of space for passengers and their stuff.
The Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV known for its practicality and comfort. It's popular among families and individuals looking for a reliable vehicle with good fuel efficiency and ample cargo space.
engine
"So doing the job faster, doing a, let's say doing a engine for 15 hours, you're moving and scooting..."
An engine is the part of a car that makes it go. It turns fuel into power to move the vehicle.
An engine is a machine that converts fuel into mechanical energy to power a vehicle. It is a critical component of any car, responsible for its movement and performance.
Chevrolet Suburban
"...ith a podcast, he was talking about how his wife, Suburban with a 6:2 is in that GM for the recall in the en..."
The Chevrolet Suburban is a big family vehicle that can carry a lot of people and their stuff. It's popular because it's roomy and can pull heavy things like trailers. Sometimes, it has safety recalls, which means the company needs to fix something to keep it safe.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong towing capabilities. It has been a staple in the automotive market since 1935, making it one of the longest-running nameplates in history. The Suburban is often discussed for its family-friendly features and utility, as well as its recent recalls and safety updates.
flat rate
"...about flat rate. No, I talking about I'm talking about an incentivized pay period, you know, because it's like if part of that bonuses me up, then I want every hour I can get on the freaking job..."
Flat rate means mechanics get paid a fixed amount for each job, no matter how long it takes them. It can make them work faster, but sometimes they might miss details because they're trying to finish quickly.
Flat rate is a payment system where technicians are paid a set amount for a job, regardless of how long it actually takes. This incentivizes speed but can lead to rushed work if the time estimates are unrealistic.
Titan
"...if they say it takes 12 hours to change that engine in that Titan truck, you're expected to get it done before 12 hours is up..."
The Nissan Titan is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and tow trailers. It's designed for people who need a strong vehicle for work or outdoor activities.
The Nissan Titan is a full-size pickup truck known for its robust performance and towing capacity. It's often used for heavy-duty tasks, making it popular among contractors and those needing a reliable work vehicle.
dealer tech
"What do you, what do you like? You're proud to be a dealer tech. I am, yeah."
A dealer tech is a mechanic who works at a car dealership. They are trained to fix and maintain the specific brands of cars that the dealership sells.
A dealer tech is a technician who works at a car dealership, specializing in the repair and maintenance of the vehicles sold by that dealership. They often have specific training and access to manufacturer resources, which can enhance their expertise.
independent shops
"No, not all dealers are the same. And you know, not all independent shops are the same either."
Independent shops are car repair places that are not connected to any car brand. They can fix many types of cars and might charge less than dealerships.
Independent shops are automotive repair facilities that are not affiliated with any specific car manufacturer or dealership. They can offer a variety of services and may have technicians with diverse expertise, often at a lower cost than dealership services.
wheel speed sensor
"...I have one I've had for about three months. Will, speed sensor issue. You know, this code it's giving me is an open short. What? It's got a code for an open. It's got a code for a short..."
A wheel speed sensor helps the car know how fast each wheel is turning. This information is important for safety features like anti-lock brakes.
A wheel speed sensor measures the rotational speed of the wheel and sends this information to the vehicle's ABS system. This data is crucial for functions like anti-lock braking and traction control.
ABS
"...like your problem with that ABS or something..."
ABS is a system in cars that helps prevent the wheels from locking up when you brake hard. This helps you keep control of the car while stopping quickly.
ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System, a safety feature in vehicles that prevents the wheels from locking up during braking. This allows the driver to maintain steering control during hard braking situations.
Uconnect
"...my Uconnect always works. You know, my, my good friend Dan, God love him, he's got a Durango, has all kinds of infotainment issues in it..."
Uconnect is a system in some Chrysler cars that helps you use your phone and listen to music through the car's screen. It can also help with navigation and other features.
Uconnect is an infotainment system developed by Chrysler that provides features like navigation, entertainment, and connectivity options for drivers. It allows users to integrate their smartphones and control various functions through a touchscreen interface.
Durango
"...my good friend Dan, God love him, he's got a Durango, has all kinds of infotainment issues in it..."
The Durango is a type of SUV made by Chrysler. It's big enough for families and has a lot of space inside, plus it comes with technology to help you drive and stay connected.
The Chrysler Durango is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong performance. It offers a range of engines and is often equipped with advanced technology features, including the Uconnect infotainment system.
starter
"...they put a starter in it, but otherwise it's been, you know, a pretty reliable car for him."
The starter is a part of the car that helps the engine start when you turn the key. If it breaks, the car won't start at all.
A starter is an electrical component in a vehicle that initiates the engine's operation by turning it over when the ignition is engaged. If a starter fails, the engine will not start.
Nissan Leaf
"Yeah. What about the Leafs? Are you, do you touch a lot of them? No, my deal..."
The Nissan Leaf is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas, which makes it better for the environment. It's a popular choice for people who want to save money on fuel and reduce pollution. It’s important to know how far it can go on a single charge before needing to recharge.
The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric hatchback that has gained popularity for its eco-friendly design and affordability. As one of the first mass-market electric vehicles, it plays a significant role in the transition to electric mobility. The Leaf is often discussed for its range, charging infrastructure, and advancements in battery technology.
battery degradation
"...the dealer... says, yeah, battery's degraded. You know, it's at about 65 capacity..."
Battery degradation means that the battery can hold less charge as it gets older, which means the car won't be able to drive as far on a single charge.
Battery degradation refers to the loss of capacity and efficiency of a battery over time, particularly in electric vehicles. This can lead to reduced driving range and performance.
extended warranty
"...she says, well, I have an extended warranty and it covers the EV side..."
An extended warranty is like extra insurance for your car that helps pay for repairs after the regular warranty ends. It can help save money if something goes wrong.
An extended warranty is a service contract that covers certain repairs and services beyond the standard warranty period. It can provide peace of mind for unexpected repair costs.
Ford Mustang
"...EV thing, you should just stick to the ice thing, Mustang, because they are right now still a lot of money ..."
The Ford Mustang is a sporty car that many people love for its speed and cool looks. It's been around for a long time and is famous for being fun to drive. There are new versions coming out that use electricity instead of gas, but many still prefer the traditional gas models.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car known for its powerful performance and distinctive styling. Since its introduction in 1964, it has become a symbol of freedom and speed, often discussed for its various engine options and cultural impact. The Mustang is currently transitioning to electric variants while maintaining its classic appeal.
EV (Electric Vehicle)
"...the EV thing is for people that have the income to do the EV thing..."
EV means Electric Vehicle, which is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. These cars are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
EV stands for Electric Vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. EVs are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs.
Nissan Sentra
"Yeah. And There's a. The MV200, which uses the Sentra powertrain. And that thing has a big old trans co..."
The Nissan Sentra is a small car that is easy to drive and good on gas, making it a popular choice for people who want to save money. It's a practical vehicle for getting around town and is often seen as a reliable option for daily use. It’s not too fancy, but it gets the job done.
The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan that offers a balance of affordability, efficiency, and practicality. It has been a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking reliable transportation. The Sentra is often discussed for its fuel economy and value in the crowded compact car segment.
V8
"...that engine for what that truck cost and it's 5.6. It was junk. Like. Well what I mean is like everybody's getting rid of the V8s. Yeah."
A V8 is a type of car engine that has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. It's known for being powerful and is commonly used in larger vehicles like trucks and sports cars.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration where the cylinders are arranged in two banks of four, forming a 'V' shape. This design is popular for its balance of power and smoothness, often found in trucks and performance cars.
Toyota Tundra
"...I. I go back to. To Chuck's check engine, Chuck's Tundra that he had there. That truck that, like, had bee..."
The Toyota Tundra is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and go off-road. It's known for being tough and lasting a long time, making it a good option for people who need a reliable vehicle for work or outdoor activities. It's also comfortable for passengers.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. It has a reputation for reliability and is often discussed for its strong performance and spacious cabin. The Tundra is a popular choice for both work and leisure, appealing to those who need a robust vehicle.
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