Mr. Subaru, Check Engine Chuck, and Brandon Sloan Talk TikTok, YouTube, and DIY pt. 2
About this episode
A deep dive into the challenges and experiences of automotive technicians, focusing on the importance of diagnostics and mentorship in the industry. The conversation highlights the frustrations of both professionals and DIYers, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and understanding. Notable guests share personal stories about their journeys, the evolution of their diagnostic processes, and the impact of social media on the automotive community. The episode also addresses the industry's struggle to retain new talent and the importance of fostering a supportive environment for apprentices.
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Mr. Subaru | YouTube | TikTok
Check Engine Chuck | YouTube | TikTok
Brandon Sloan/Performance Transmissions LLC | YouTube | TikTok
Mr. Subaru, Check Engine Chuck, and Brandon Sloan join Jeff again this week. Mr. Subaru highlights the complexities of assisting DIYers, emphasizing the limitations of remote diagnostics. Brandon Sloan discusses the ongoing challenges of mentorship and apprenticeship, sharing personal experiences with both successful and problematic trainees. Check Engine Chuck addresses the need for higher labor rates to attract and retain skilled technicians, stressing the importance of transparent communication with consumers.
00:00 Check manuals and data first for troubleshooting.
05:46 Used to have patience for teaching comments.
09:21 Discussed GM vehicle basics; lacked foundational knowledge.
10:14 Update the PCV valve and software to fix the issue.
14:22 Frustration with customer's dismissive attitude towards repairs.
18:57 Understanding repair costs through detailed explanations.
22:05 Answered $5 TikTok follower's Camaro question.
25:24 Knowledge empowers consumers and enhances understanding and trust.
27:20 Amateur guesses are ineffective; scan codes for diagnosis.
31:53 Employee left due to denied raise request.
33:48 A tech claims don't match actual skills.
37:21 Industry struggles to nurture next-generation technicians.
41:39 The industry indirectly caused my father's death.
45:30 Mentorship ensures continuity and respect for emerging generations.
48:30 Industry must change to effectively retain youth.
51:17 Excited about meaningful conversation and potential influence.
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Jeep Cherokee
"...y at the Chrysler dealer I'm working at in the 99 Cherokee, 4 liter. He's got oxygen sensor codes. Then my a..."
Chevrolet Camaro
"...first followers on TikTok. And he brought his ZL1 Camaro in because he couldn't get an answer from the ser..."
Volkswagen I
"Right. And I let him go. So then we brought in the next one. But I did let the first apprentice know kind of what had all transpired and him going on to Volkswagen. I was going to stop that. It was just an eye opener for him to go do what he loves with the brand that he loves. But if it was something else, I kind of would have went more to bat to say, hey, let's get him some more money. Right? Yeah."
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