{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"The Future of Automotive Services: Diversify or Get Left Behind [RR 1069]","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-future-of-automotive-services-diversify-or-get-left-behind-rr-1069","audioUrl":"https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/eae13a6f-ccc7-47e7-80a1-ed305c94bf3c.mp3","description":"Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS\nRecorded Live at ASTA 2025, we explore the rise of the automotive specialist and why the industry needs a language shift—calling instructors “educators” instead of “trainers” to reflect the complex, continuing education modern technicians require.\nWe also dive into the mobile diagnostics and repair market, discussing strategies for growth, high-complexity work, and the investments needed to compete. Looking ahead, the industry faces a technological turning point by 2030, with new vehicle architectures and ADAS calibration requirements threatening shops that fail to keep up.\nThe episode closes by emphasizing the power of networking, connecting with peers, and staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.\nhttps://astausa.org/pages/asta-expo\n\nRich Falco, Diag on Demand, Instructor at Carquest Technical Institute. Listen to Rich’s previous episodes HERE\n\nKeith Perkins, L1 Automotive Training, Listen to Keith’s previous episode HERE.\n\nThanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS\n\nLearn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care\n\nNAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/\n\nConnect with the Podcast:\n\n- Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/\n\n- Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters\n\n- Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976\n\n- Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto\n\n- Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/\n\n- Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/\n\n- Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz\n\n- Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/\n\n- Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider\n\n- All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books\n\n- Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: "},"annotations":[{"startTime":1237.4,"endTime":1245.0,"type":"car","title":"Chevrolet Suburban (1999)","url":"/cars/chevrolet/suburban","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/29/Chevrolet_Suburban_%28GMT800%29_Washington_DC_Metro_Area%2C_USA.jpg","quote":"I got my 15th car last week. It's like a 99 suburban with a big block.","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:suburban","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Chevrolet Suburban is a full‑size SUV produced by General Motors. The 1999 model year had a large V8 engine, often referred to as a \"big block\" Chevy due to its displacement and power.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Suburban is a big, roomy SUV from Chevrolet. In 1999 it used a powerful V8 engine that people call a \"big block\" because it’s very large and strong.","imageAttribution":"OWS Photography (CC BY 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1251.4,"endTime":1257.04,"type":"car","title":"Chrysler Crossfire","url":"/cars/chrysler/crossfire","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/02/2003_Chrysler_Crossfire_%285059539834%29.jpg","quote":"Chrysler crossfires. Okay. Nice.","canonicalId":"car:chrysler:crossfire","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Chrysler Crossfire is a mid‑size sports coupe produced by Chrysler from 2004 to 2008. It was built on the same platform as the Dodge Viper and featured a powerful V6 engine.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Crossfire is a sporty car made by Chrysler. It looks like a coupe and has a strong V6 engine, but it’s not very common today.","imageAttribution":"sv1ambo (CC BY 2.0)"}},{"startTime":1324.9,"endTime":1331.0,"type":"concept","title":"camera calibration","url":"/glossary/camera-calibration","quote":"And we've got pictures of pictures of other shops doing camera calibrations outside in the direct sunlight.","canonicalId":"concept:camera-calibration","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Camera calibration is the process of determining a camera’s internal parameters (like focal length and lens distortion) so that images can be accurately interpreted by computer vision systems. In automotive contexts, it ensures that cameras used for driver assistance or autonomous driving provide reliable data.","simplifiedExplanation":"Camera calibration is like fine‑tuning a camera so that the pictures it takes are exactly right for the car’s computer to understand. This helps safety features such as lane keeping or collision avoidance work properly."}},{"startTime":1335.1,"endTime":1340.4,"type":"term","title":"radar cow","url":"/glossary/radar-cow","quote":"I don't mind. I don't mean outside. No, I meant at a client... I've done radar cows outside.","canonicalId":"term:radar-cow","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A radar cow is a large, reflective object used in automotive testing to simulate a vehicle’s radar signature. By placing it on the test track, engineers can calibrate and validate the performance of a car’s radar-based driver assistance systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"A radar cow is a big, shiny object that looks like a car to the car’s radar system. It helps engineers make sure the car’s safety features that use radar work correctly."}},{"startTime":1357.0,"endTime":1361.6,"type":"brand","title":"Subaru EyeSight","url":"/glossary/subaru-eyesight","quote":"But if they're in the Tulsa area and it's a Subaru eyesight,","canonicalId":"brand:subaru-eyesight","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.92,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Subaru EyeSight is a suite of advanced driver assistance technologies that use dual forward‑looking cameras to provide features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and pre‑collision braking. It is a key safety system in many Subaru models.","simplifiedExplanation":"Subaru EyeSight is a safety system that uses cameras to help the driver keep the car in its lane, maintain safe distance from other cars, and even stop automatically if a collision looks likely."}},{"startTime":1587.5,"endTime":1590.0,"type":"brand","title":"Dodge","url":"/glossary/dodge","quote":"[1587.5s] safety feature. You know, it's crazy. Do you remember the Dodge shifter recall?","canonicalId":"brand:dodge","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Dodge is an American automotive brand known for producing a range of vehicles from compact cars to powerful muscle cars and SUVs. The brand has been part of Chrysler Group (now Stellantis) since the 1920s.","simplifiedExplanation":"Dodge makes cars and trucks that many people drive. It’s a well-known American brand that has made popular models like the Dodge Charger and Dodge Ram."}},{"startTime":1587.5,"endTime":1590.0,"type":"part","title":"shifter","url":"/glossary/shifter","quote":"[1587.5s] safety feature. You know, it's crazy. Do you remember the Dodge shifter recall?","canonicalId":"part:shifter","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A shifter, also called a gear selector or shift lever, is the component that allows drivers to change gears in a manual or automatic transmission. In some vehicles, the shifter is integrated into the steering column or mounted on the floor.","simplifiedExplanation":"The shifter is the part you move with your hand or foot to change gears in a car. It lets you go from low speed to high speed and back again."}},{"startTime":1736.2,"endTime":1742.2,"type":"part","title":"Nissan CVT","url":"/glossary/nissan-cvt","quote":"...and we got a Nissan CVT tomorrow. And it's convoluted...","canonicalId":"part:nissan-cvt","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a type of automatic gearbox that uses a belt and pulleys to provide an infinite number of gear ratios, allowing smooth acceleration without distinct shift points. Nissan’s CVTs are common in many of its models but have been known to suffer from durability issues, especially in older generations.","simplifiedExplanation":"A CVT is a special kind of automatic transmission that can change gears smoothly without the usual gear shifts you feel in a regular car. Nissan’s CVTs are popular but older ones can wear out faster, so owners often need to keep an eye on them."}},{"startTime":1825.9,"endTime":1836.7,"type":"company","title":"CTI programming classes","url":"/glossary/cti-programming-classes","quote":"…you need to talk to Isaac to take some of the CTI programming classes to have an idea of the level of equipment you’re about to get involved with…","canonicalId":"company:cti-programming-classes","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.92,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"CTI (CarTech Institute) offers specialized training courses that teach automotive technicians how to use diagnostic tools and perform vehicle programming. These classes cover software updates, ECU remapping, and other advanced electronic procedures.","simplifiedExplanation":"CTI programming classes are lessons that teach mechanics how to use tools like the AutoJ box to change settings in a car’s computer system."}},{"startTime":1831.0,"endTime":1842.4,"type":"company","title":"AutoJ box","url":"/glossary/autoj-box","quote":"…you can get what $10,000 of equipment and program 85% of everything you touch, which is the same as what everybody else is doing…","canonicalId":"company:autoj-box","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The AutoJ box is a handheld automotive diagnostic tool that plugs into a vehicle’s OBD-II port to read and clear error codes, monitor sensor data, and perform various programming tasks. It’s commonly used by technicians to troubleshoot and update vehicle software.","simplifiedExplanation":"An AutoJ box is a small device that you insert into your car’s diagnostic port. It lets mechanics read error messages and sometimes change settings in the car’s computer."}},{"startTime":1986.2,"endTime":1991.6,"type":"term","title":"BCM","url":"/glossary/bcm","quote":"...he got a car with a bad BCM. When can you do a GM BCM? And you know, me or the boys, meet them somewhere and get it done.","canonicalId":"term:bcm","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Body Control Module (BCM) is an electronic control unit that manages various electrical functions in a vehicle, such as power windows, door locks, and interior lighting. It acts as the central hub for many of a car’s electronic systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"A BCM is like the brain of a car’s electrical parts. It tells things like windows, locks, and lights what to do and keeps everything working together."}},{"startTime":2030.0,"endTime":2045.0,"type":"term","title":"module","url":"/glossary/modules","quote":"\"...we put a used module in a 17 equinox and it doesn't work.\"","canonicalId":"term:modules","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.88,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"In automotive terms, a module usually refers to an electronic control unit (ECU) that manages specific vehicle functions like engine, transmission, or body electronics.","simplifiedExplanation":"A module is a small computer inside the car that controls things like the engine or lights. Replacing it can fix certain problems."}},{"startTime":2030.0,"endTime":2045.0,"type":"car","title":"Chevrolet Equinox","url":"/cars/chevrolet/equinox","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e7/CHEVROLET_EQUINOX_THIRD_GENERATION_China.jpg","quote":"\"...we put a used module in a 17 equinox and it doesn't work.\"","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:equinox","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact crossover SUV produced by General Motors since 2005. It’s known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Equinox is a small SUV from Chevrolet that’s popular for its roomy inside and easy handling. It’s a good choice if you want a car that can carry family or cargo without being too big.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":2040.0,"endTime":2050.0,"type":"brand","title":"General Motors","url":"/glossary/general-motors","quote":"\"...we've been programming GM since the early 90s.\"","canonicalId":"brand:general-motors","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"General Motors (GM) is an American multinational corporation that designs, manufactures, markets, and distributes vehicles and vehicle parts under various brands such as Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac.","simplifiedExplanation":"GM is a big car company that makes many different brands of cars and trucks, like Chevrolet and Buick. They’re one of the oldest car makers in America."}},{"startTime":2050.0,"endTime":2065.0,"type":"term","title":"scan tool","url":"/glossary/scan-tool","quote":"\"...my scan tool can't scan this 2020 Dodge.\"","canonicalId":"term:scan-tool","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A scan tool is a diagnostic device used by technicians to read error codes and monitor vehicle systems via the OBD-II port.","simplifiedExplanation":"A scan tool is a gadget that plugs into your car to check for problems. It shows error codes and lets mechanics see what’s going wrong."}},{"startTime":2183.0,"endTime":2187.6,"type":"term","title":"variable valve timing","url":"/glossary/variable-valve-timing","quote":"When it's got variable compression ratio, variable valve timing, there's gateway module. I see requires seven networks behind each gateway, two nine channel gateways does require","canonicalId":"term:variable-valve-timing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Variable valve timing (VVT) adjusts the timing of engine valves opening and closing, optimizing performance, torque, and fuel economy across different RPM ranges.","simplifiedExplanation":"It lets the engine change when its valves open and close, so it can run smoother and use fuel more efficiently at different speeds."}},{"startTime":2183.0,"endTime":2187.6,"type":"term","title":"gateway","url":"/glossary/gateway","quote":"When it's got variable compression ratio, variable valve timing, there's gateway module. I see requires seven networks behind each gateway, two nine channel gateways does require","canonicalId":"term:gateway","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"In automotive electronics, a gateway is a device that routes data between multiple communication networks within the vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"It’s like a router that directs information between different parts of the car’s computer system."}},{"startTime":2183.0,"endTime":2187.6,"type":"term","title":"variable compression ratio","url":"/glossary/variable-compression-ratio","quote":"When it's got variable compression ratio, variable valve timing, there's gateway module. I see requires seven networks behind each gateway, two nine channel gateways does require","canonicalId":"term:variable-compression-ratio","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Variable compression ratio (VCR) is a technology that allows an engine to change its compression ratio on the fly, improving fuel efficiency and performance by adapting to driving conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"Some engines can change how tightly the piston squeezes the air‑fuel mix. This helps them run better in different situations, like city driving or highway cruising."}},{"startTime":2190.0,"endTime":2195.0,"type":"term","title":"OEM tool","url":"/glossary/oem-tool","quote":"an OEM tool. You can't put a window switch in it without programming.","canonicalId":"term:oem-tool","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.92,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. An OEM tool is a diagnostic or repair device that is designed and sold by the car manufacturer, often providing deeper access to vehicle systems than generic aftermarket tools.","simplifiedExplanation":"OEM means the tool comes straight from the car company that made your vehicle. These tools can read and write data in ways regular tools can’t."}},{"startTime":2200.0,"endTime":2205.0,"type":"part","title":"tie rod","url":"/glossary/tie-rod","quote":"The brake system requires calibration and you can't change a tie rod in without doing an 8-os calibration.","canonicalId":"part:tie-rod","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A tie rod is a component of the steering system that connects the steering rack to the wheel hub, translating steering input into wheel movement. It helps maintain proper alignment and handling stability.","simplifiedExplanation":"The tie rod is a part that links the steering mechanism to your car’s wheels. When you turn the wheel, the tie rod moves the wheels so the car goes where you want."}},{"startTime":2251.4,"endTime":2256.0,"type":"term","title":"codes","url":"/glossary/codes","quote":"bought a $500 tool online to fix his wife's Alexis and his son's truck because he needed to have codes and do some things.","canonicalId":"term:codes","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Vehicle diagnostic codes are numeric or alphanumeric identifiers that a car’s onboard computer generates when it detects a malfunction. They help mechanics pinpoint which system or component is having an issue.","simplifiedExplanation":"Cars have hidden computers that give out short numbers or letters when something goes wrong. These are called codes and they tell a mechanic what part needs fixing."}},{"startTime":2273.1,"endTime":2278.0,"type":"term","title":"special functions","url":"/glossary/special-functions","quote":"there's going to be a limit to it, but they're always going to be able to get something... some Amazon special that'll give them some data or at least pull a code.","canonicalId":"term:special-functions","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Special functions refer to advanced diagnostic commands that can perform tasks beyond simple code reading, such as resetting maintenance counters or activating specific vehicle systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"Some tools can do extra tricks with a car, like turning off certain warnings or changing settings. These are called special functions."}},{"startTime":2277.6,"endTime":2281.0,"type":"term","title":"bidirectional controls","url":"/glossary/bidirectional-controls","quote":"you don't have the special functions and bidirectional controls, you're going to be lost.","canonicalId":"term:bidirectional-controls","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Bidirectional controls allow a diagnostic tool to not only read data from a vehicle’s computer but also send commands back, enabling functions like resetting service lights or performing active tests.","simplifiedExplanation":"Some tools can talk to a car’s computer and tell it to do things, like turn off a warning light. These are called bidirectional controls."}},{"startTime":2294.1,"endTime":2298.4,"type":"part","title":"bumper","url":"/glossary/bumper","quote":"they take a bumper off and now every parking sensor is freaking out","canonicalId":"part:bumper","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The bumper is the front or rear protective panel on a vehicle that absorbs impact during low-speed collisions.","simplifiedExplanation":"A bumper is the part of a car that sticks out at the front or back. It helps protect the car if it bumps into something."}},{"startTime":2294.1,"endTime":2315.2,"type":"part","title":"parking sensor","url":"/glossary/parking-sensor","quote":"every parking sensor is freaking out","canonicalId":"part:parking-sensor","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Parking sensors are small electronic devices mounted on a vehicle that detect obstacles and alert the driver with sounds or visual cues.","simplifiedExplanation":"Parking sensors are little gadgets on a car that beep or show lights when something is close, helping you park safely."}},{"startTime":2311.2,"endTime":2325.4,"type":"term","title":"OEM service information","url":"/glossary/oem-service-information","quote":"That's what the OEM service information says","canonicalId":"term:oem-service-information","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) service information is the official repair guide provided by the vehicle manufacturer, detailing proper procedures and parts.","simplifiedExplanation":"OEM service information is the official manual from the car maker that tells mechanics how to fix or maintain a vehicle correctly."}},{"startTime":2311.2,"endTime":2325.4,"type":"part","title":"front radar","url":"/glossary/front-radar","quote":"the front radar has to be done","canonicalId":"part:front-radar","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Front radar refers to the sensor system located at a vehicle's front that uses radio waves to detect objects and assist with parking or collision avoidance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Front radar is a sensor on the front of a car that sends out radio waves to find nearby objects, helping with parking or avoiding crashes."}},{"startTime":2325.4,"endTime":2329.52,"type":"part","title":"aftermarket park sensor","url":"/glossary/aftermarket-park-sensor","quote":"giant or do you put an aftermarket park sensor in one side","canonicalId":"part:aftermarket-park-sensor","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"An aftermarket park sensor is a third‑party replacement or upgrade for the factory parking sensors, often offering improved performance or additional features.","simplifiedExplanation":"An aftermarket park sensor is a replacement part made by another company, not the original car maker, that can be installed to replace or upgrade the car's parking sensors."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Carm Capriotto","role":"host"},{"id":"s2","name":"AAP","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-future-of-automotive-services-diversify-or-get-left-behind-rr-1069/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}