{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Life-Changing Work in the Accessible Vehicle Industry with Bob Leonard","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/life-changing-work-in-the-accessible-vehicle-industry-with-bob-leonard","audioUrl":"https://media.transistor.fm/23a053b8/b7001afd.mp3","description":"\n        Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.  Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERERegister NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with Bob Leonard from Mobility Works to delve into the specialized world of vehicle modifications for people with physical disabilities. Bob shares insights into the unique regulatory landscape and technical requirements affecting mobility vehicle conversions, including the importance of following strict certification rules and working closely with certified evaluators. The conversation highlights the technician shortage in the mobility industry, the blend of mechanical and electrical skills required, and the impactful difference these vehicles make in the lives of customers.Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to The Jaded Mechanic 00:40 Live at ASTA 2025: Meet Bob Leonard from Mobility Works 01:59 What is Mobility Works? The Mission and Services Explained 03:13 Types of Modifications: Minivans, Hand Controls, and High-Tech Installs 05:58 Certification and Audit Processes in Mobility Vehicle Service 08:46 Repairing or Correcting Others’ Work: Challenges in Mobility Vehicle Service 11:22 Prescriptions, Regulations & Working with Certified Evaluators 14:19 How Modifications Affect Standard Vehicle Repairs 16:35 Diagnosing Issues When Factory Systems and Modified Controls Meet 19:06 Adapting to EVs and Hybrids in the Mobility Industry 22:04 The Human Side: Fittings, Customer Stories & Building Trust 25:48 Technician Shortages & The Specialized Skills Required 29:08 Training, Following Procedures, and the Role of Inspections 32:38 Troubleshooting Wiring, Diagnostics, and Common Mistakes 36:58 Customer Impact: Independence, Freedom, and Lasting Relationships 41:12 Insurance, Rentals, and the Cost of Mobility Vehicle Ownership 45:42 Body Shop Challenges: Repairs, Estimating, and Crash-Tested Parts 51:02 Advice for Technicians: Approach, Caution, and Knowing When to Call Experts 54:59 The Growing Mobility Market & Emerging Trends 57:01 Life-Changing Mobility Solutions: Why This Work Matters 01:02:57 Wrap-Up: Spreading Awareness & Educating Technicians\nFollow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232\n      "},"annotations":[{"startTime":196.1,"endTime":199.8,"type":"car","title":"Chrysler Grand Caravan","url":"/cars/dodge/grand-caravan","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/97/Chrysler_Grand_Voyager_Limited_RT_Bright_Silver_Metallic_%281%29.jpg","quote":"...sometimes green caravans are still being done.","canonicalId":"car:dodge:grand-caravan","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chrysler Grand Caravan is another popular minivan that has been used for family transport and accessibility modifications. It shares many features with the Pacifica but is an older model.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chrysler Grand Caravan is an older model of minivan that many families used. Like the Pacifica, it can also be modified to help people who use wheelchairs.","imageAttribution":"Damian B Oh (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":201.08,"endTime":203.1,"type":"car","title":"Honda Odyssey","url":"/cars/honda/odyssey","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/65/1996_Honda_Odyssey_RA1.jpg","quote":"The Honda Odyssey and the Toyota Sienna.","canonicalId":"car:honda:odyssey","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Honda Odyssey is a minivan known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features, making it a popular choice for parents and caregivers.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Honda Odyssey is a family minivan that has a lot of room inside for passengers and cargo, making it great for families.","imageAttribution":"TTTNIS (CC0)"}},{"startTime":201.1,"endTime":203.6,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Sienna","url":"/cars/toyota/sienna","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d7/TOYOTA_SIENNA_%28XL40%29_China.jpg","quote":"The Honda Odyssey and the Toyota Sienna.","canonicalId":"car:toyota:sienna","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Sienna is a minivan that offers versatility and comfort, with features designed for family travel and safety.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Sienna is another family minivan that provides a lot of space and comfort for families, similar to the Honda Odyssey.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":222.2,"endTime":229.6,"type":"term","title":"fly by wire","url":"/glossary/fly-by-wire","quote":"as simple as a spinner knob, which we everyone in this place has seen, to high tech controls, which are fly by wire and can be a joystick.","canonicalId":"term:fly-by-wire","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fly by wire is a technology that replaces traditional mechanical controls with electronic controls, allowing for more precise handling and flexibility in vehicle design.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fly by wire means that instead of using physical cables and levers to control things like steering or acceleration, the car uses electronic signals to do it, which can make driving easier and more efficient."}},{"startTime":590.7,"endTime":594.1,"type":"concept","title":"lowered floor minivans","url":"/glossary/lowered-floor-minivans","quote":"...the lowered floor mini vans, they will come from one of the major conversion companies.","canonicalId":"concept:lowered-floor-minivans","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Lowered floor minivans are specially modified vehicles that have had their floors lowered to provide easier access for individuals with mobility challenges. This modification is crucial for wheelchair accessibility.","simplifiedExplanation":"Lowered floor minivans are vans that have been changed so that the floor is lower than usual. This makes it easier for people in wheelchairs to get in and out."}},{"startTime":788.4,"endTime":793.6,"type":"term","title":"McPherson strut","url":"/glossary/mcpherson-strut","quote":"...you should double check before you put a McPherson strut or a shot. It might have been modified.","canonicalId":"term:mcpherson-strut","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A McPherson strut is a type of suspension system commonly used in vehicles. It combines a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit, allowing for a more compact and lightweight design, which is beneficial for both handling and cost efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"A McPherson strut is a part of a car's suspension that helps support the weight of the vehicle and absorbs bumps in the road. It's a common design that makes the car lighter and easier to handle."}},{"startTime":806.4,"endTime":809.9,"type":"term","title":"part number","url":"/glossary/part-number","quote":"Um, and you can usually just look at the part number that's stamped in it, call the parts house, have them double check right before they send you that Monroe or whoever.","canonicalId":"term:part-number","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A part number is a unique identifier assigned to a specific component or part, which helps in ordering and ensuring compatibility with vehicles. It is essential for mechanics and parts suppliers to accurately identify and source the correct parts for repairs or replacements.","simplifiedExplanation":"A part number is like a special code for car parts. It helps people find the right part when they need to fix or replace something in a car."}},{"startTime":834.6,"endTime":837.74,"type":"term","title":"NFS process","url":"/glossary/nfs-process","quote":"But the other thing is, if we get a, if we trade something straight in or we, wherever they get it, we have what's known as the NFS process.","canonicalId":"term:nfs-process","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The NFS process refers to a specific procedure used in the automotive industry, often related to the handling of vehicle trades or inventory management. It typically involves assessing and processing vehicles that come into a dealership or repair shop, ensuring they meet certain standards before being resold or serviced.","simplifiedExplanation":"The NFS process is a way that car dealers handle cars they get in trade. It helps them check the cars and decide what to do with them next."}},{"startTime":1020.86,"endTime":1023.14,"type":"car","title":"Dodge Grand","url":"/cars/dodge/grand-caravan","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/24/2011_Dodge_Grand_Caravan_Mainstreet_--_02-17-2011.jpg","quote":"...if it's a Dodge Grand Caravan, it's going to leak. The hoses are going to leak...","canonicalId":"car:dodge:grand-caravan","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Dodge Grand Caravan is a minivan known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features. It's popular for its versatility and practicality, often used for family transportation.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Dodge Grand Caravan is a type of minivan that's great for families. It has a lot of space inside and is designed to be practical for everyday use.","imageAttribution":"IFCAR (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":1024.4,"endTime":1025.8,"type":"part","title":"bumper cover","url":"/glossary/bumper-cover","quote":"...the bumper cover off. Okay. So that is never going to change.","canonicalId":"part:bumper-cover","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The bumper cover is the outer part of a vehicle's bumper, designed to absorb impact and protect the underlying components. It can be removed for access to other parts, such as hoses or the transmission.","simplifiedExplanation":"The bumper cover is the plastic or metal part that you see on the front or back of a car. It's there to protect the car and can be taken off to fix things behind it."}},{"startTime":1083.6,"endTime":1087.0,"type":"part","title":"fuel pump ground","url":"/glossary/fuel-pump-ground","quote":"...modified floor pan had moved the fuel pump ground.","canonicalId":"part:fuel-pump-ground","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The fuel pump ground is a critical electrical connection that ensures the fuel pump operates correctly. If this ground is modified or moved, it can lead to issues with fuel delivery.","simplifiedExplanation":"The fuel pump ground is a wire that helps the fuel pump work properly. If it's not connected right, the pump might not get the power it needs to send fuel to the engine."}},{"startTime":1088.78,"endTime":1093.88,"type":"car","title":"Chrysler Pacifica","url":"/cars/chrysler/pacifica","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8d/%2707_Chrysler_Pacifica.jpg","quote":"...and I have a slide that shows you the inside of a Pacifica from the factory.  Yeah.","canonicalId":"car:chrysler:pacifica","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chrysler Pacifica is a versatile minivan known for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and family-friendly features. It has gained popularity for its hybrid variant, which offers improved fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness. The Pacifica is often discussed for its innovative design and practicality for modern families.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chrysler Pacifica is a family minivan that has lots of room for passengers and cargo. It comes with cool features like a built-in entertainment system and can even be a hybrid, which means it can save on gas. People talk about it because it's a great option for families who need space and convenience.","imageAttribution":"Bull-Doser (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":2033.5,"endTime":2039.5,"type":"term","title":"battery placement","url":"/glossary/battery-placement","quote":"The two companies that are doing those are moving the battery. One moves to the back. One moves from under the front seats to under the front floor.","canonicalId":"term:battery-placement","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Battery placement in electric vehicles is crucial for weight distribution and handling. Moving the battery to different locations, such as under the floor or in the back, can affect the vehicle's performance and interior space.","simplifiedExplanation":"Where the battery is placed in an electric car is important because it can change how the car drives and how much space is inside. Some cars have the battery under the floor or in the back."}},{"startTime":2046.3,"endTime":2047.3,"type":"term","title":"EV","url":"/glossary/ev","quote":"Now I got to ask, going forward with the more and more and more of the EV coming into the market,...","canonicalId":"term:ev","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely or partially by electricity instead of traditional gasoline or diesel fuel. The rise of EVs is significant as they represent a shift towards more sustainable transportation options.","simplifiedExplanation":"EV means electric vehicle, which runs on electricity instead of gas. More people are using EVs now because they are better for the environment."}},{"startTime":2071.5,"endTime":2072.9,"type":"part","title":"fuel injectors","url":"/glossary/fuel-injectors","quote":"Then they said fuel injectors. Just another thing.","canonicalId":"part:fuel-injectors","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fuel injectors are critical components in modern internal combustion engines that deliver fuel into the combustion chamber. They atomize the fuel for better mixing with air, which improves combustion efficiency and engine performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fuel injectors are parts of a car's engine that spray fuel into the engine to help it run. They make sure the fuel mixes well with air for better performance."}},{"startTime":2135.0,"endTime":2140.0,"type":"term","title":"hybrid vehicles","url":"/glossary/hybrid-vehicles","quote":"...plenty in controls and left for gas bottles in hybrid vehicles. Yeah.","canonicalId":"term:hybrid-vehicles","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Hybrid vehicles combine a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system. This combination allows for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Hybrid vehicles use both a gas engine and an electric motor to run. This helps them save fuel and produce less pollution than regular cars."}},{"startTime":2142.0,"endTime":2144.0,"type":"term","title":"full EVs","url":"/glossary/full-evs","quote":"...and full EVs. I did a Volvo on it.","canonicalId":"term:full-evs","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Full EVs, or fully electric vehicles, run entirely on electricity and do not use any gasoline. They rely on rechargeable batteries to power an electric motor.","simplifiedExplanation":"Full EVs are cars that only use electricity to run, without any gas engine. They need to be charged at home or at charging stations."}},{"startTime":2564.2,"endTime":2565.5,"type":"part","title":"door module","url":"/glossary/door-module","quote":"...if they're converted, the door module is just like the one you can buy from Graceland.","canonicalId":"part:door-module","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The door module is an electronic component that controls various functions of a vehicle's doors, such as locking, window operation, and sometimes even the door's lighting. It's crucial for the convenience and security features of modern vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"The door module is a part of the car that helps control how the doors work, like locking them or rolling down the windows. It's important for making sure everything works smoothly."}},{"startTime":2719.8,"endTime":2722.6,"type":"car","title":"Ford E450","url":"/cars/ford/e-450","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b6/2005_Ford_E-450_Super_Duty.jpg","quote":"...that is all mobility equipped vans. They're older E450 style. Like they look like school buses, right?","canonicalId":"car:ford:e-450","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford E450 is a cutaway van chassis that is commonly used for various commercial applications, including ambulances and shuttle buses. It's known for its durability and versatility in accommodating different types of body configurations.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford E450 is a type of vehicle often used for things like ambulances and buses. It's strong and can be customized for different purposes, making it popular for businesses.","imageAttribution":"Calreyn88 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":2808.0,"endTime":2810.1,"type":"term","title":"interlock","url":"/glossary/interlock","quote":"...the biggest problem I have with new guys is it's called the interlock. So it's got to be in part of the parking brake on.","canonicalId":"term:interlock","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An interlock is a safety feature in vehicles that prevents certain actions unless specific conditions are met, such as ensuring the vehicle is in 'Park' before the engine can be started or the transmission can be shifted. This is designed to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation.","simplifiedExplanation":"An interlock is a safety mechanism in cars that stops you from doing something dangerous, like starting the engine when the car is not in 'Park'. It helps keep you safe while driving."}},{"startTime":2828.4,"endTime":2831.06,"type":"brand","title":"Tesla","url":"/glossary/tesla","quote":"...Unfortunately, they're using a Tesla and I don't really don't care.","canonicalId":"brand:tesla","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Tesla is an American electric vehicle and clean energy company founded by Elon Musk and others. Known for its innovative technology and electric cars, Tesla has become a leader in the electric vehicle market.","simplifiedExplanation":"Tesla is a company that makes electric cars. They are known for their advanced technology and are popular for being environmentally friendly."}},{"startTime":3309.2,"endTime":3312.5,"type":"car","title":"Chrysler Town & Country","url":"/cars/chrysler/town-country","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/28/1966_Chrysler_Town_%26_Country%2C_photo-6.jpg","quote":"I can still remember an older Chrysler caravan. I don't remember if it was a town and country or what.","canonicalId":"car:chrysler:town-country","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chrysler Town & Country is a minivan that was produced by Chrysler, known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features. The 2006 model is part of the last generation of this vehicle before it was discontinued in 2016.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chrysler Town & Country is a family minivan that was popular for its roominess and comfort. The 2006 version had features that made it great for families, but it also had some common issues.","imageAttribution":"AlfvanBeem (CC0)"}},{"startTime":3904.9,"endTime":3909.7,"type":"car","title":"Chevy Silverado","url":"/cars/chevrolet/silverado","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/04/2022_Chevrolet_Silverado_1500_Z71.png","quote":"...and you weigh 225 pounds. I want you to tell me how you're getting into your Chevy Silverado. So when I tell you, don't break these things.","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:silverado","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevy Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and versatility, often used for both work and personal purposes.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chevy Silverado is a popular truck made by Chevrolet. It's known for being strong and useful for carrying heavy loads or towing.","imageAttribution":"LukaCali (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Jeff Compton","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/life-changing-work-in-the-accessible-vehicle-industry-with-bob-leonard/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}