[Podcast] RR 370: Darren Garlock Treating Company Culture and Customer Retention Alike!
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Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?
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By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog0 commentsIt always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training
In this episode, Matt Fanslow dives into listener-submitted questions, covering a wide range of automotive diagnostic and repair topics. From personal influences in the industry to technical advice on exhaust gas analyzers, catalytic converter testing, and ADAS calibrations, Matt shares his insights and expertise.
1. Who Do You Try to Emulate?
Matt reflects on the mentors and industry leaders who have shaped his approach to diagnostics and repair.
TV Doctors vs. Real Mentors: While he jokes about emulating fictional doctors like Hawkeye Pierce, Gregory House, and Perry Cox, Matt credits real-world experts like John Thornton, Randy Burkholder, Jim Kemper, Matthew Ragsdale, Harvey Chan, and John Riegel for their influence. The Value of Deep Research: Matt highlights the importance of studying SAE documents, technical manuals, and foundational books like Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals by John B. Heywood. Thought Leaders in the Industry: He also mentions Jim Wilson (ScanShare.io), Scott Manna, and others for their diagnostic methodologies and problem-solving approaches.
Takeaway: Success in automotive diagnostics comes from continuous learning, leveraging industry resources, and adopting best practices from experienced professionals.
2. Exhaust Gas Analyzers – What to Look For?
A listener asks about choosing the right exhaust gas analyzer for their shop. Matt breaks down the key features:
PC/Android Interface: Essential for graphing gas readings (lambda, air-fuel ratio) over time. Portability: Needed for on-road testing to monitor performance under real driving conditions. Fast Sample Times: Look for analyzers with low transfer delays (under 5 seconds) for accurate real-time data. Cost Consideration: Expect to invest 5,000– 5,000–7,000+ for a quality unit.
Takeaway: A good exhaust gas analyzer should provide real-time data logging, lambda calculations, and portability for effective diagnostics.
3. Testing Catalytic Converters – Temperature vs. PCM Diagnostics
A student questions the validity of using infrared thermometers to test catalytic converters after hearing conflicting advice.
PCM Algorithms Are Superior: Modern vehicles use complex oxygen storage calculations—far more accurate than manual temperature checks. Why Temperature Testing Falls Short: A "bad" cat might still pass a temp test. A "good" cat might fail due to external factors (exhaust leaks, sensor issues). Best Practice: Trust OBD-II diagnostics, fuel control verification, and factory procedures over manual methods.
Takeaway: Always verify fuel control, exhaust integrity, and PCM data before condemning a catalytic converter.
4. ADAS Calibrations – Troubleshooting Static Windshield Camera Issues
A technician struggles with static calibrations for windshield-mounted cameras. Matt offers troubleshooting tips:
Check the Windshield Glass: Aftermarket glass is a common culprit for calibration failures. Lighting Conditions: Too much LED glare? Try diffusers or dimming shop lights. Use shipping blankets to reduce reflections on the hood/dash. Target Placement: Ensure the target is positioned per OEM specs—avoid background interference. RTFM (Read the Factory Manual): Always follow OEM procedures for target setup.
Takeaway: Calibration issues often stem from glass quality, lighting, or incorrect target alignment—double-check these factors first.
Listener Q&A Submission: Have a question for Matt? Email: MattFanslowPodcast@gmail.com
Contact Information
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By MikesPlaceAuto
Hello from Montana. Longtime mechanic/technician, first-time shop owner. Reaching out to many sources for information and advice. Small shop in rural setting, specializing in electrical and electronics. Thanks for any good words. Mike
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By nptrb
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