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Air Bag Issue, 2001 BMW 3 Series


Joe Marconi

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The other day we were diagnosing an air bag fault on a 2001 BMW 325. My Snap-On Scanner pulled codes for the passenger side seat sensor and pre-tension. My tech also found some information on IATN and Identifix, but could not trace down the problem.

 

He finally called Identifx and was told that the information to the scanner is wrong. The actual problem area is the driver side air bag located on the pillar.

 

When we pulled the side air bag down on the driver’s side we found a broken connector at the air bag and fixed the problem.

 

We find these problems way too often, particularly with European cars.

 

I will log this with the NASTF.

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  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         13 comments
      Most shop owners would agree that the independent auto repair industry has been too cheap for too long regarding its pricing and labor rates. However, can we keep raising our labor rates and prices until we achieve the profit we desire and need? Is it that simple?
      The first step in achieving your required gross and net profit is understanding your numbers and establishing the correct labor and part margins. The next step is to find your business's inefficiencies that impact high production levels.
      Here are a few things to consider. First, do you have the workflow processes in place that is conducive to high production? What about your shop layout? Do you have all the right tools and equipment? Do you have a continuous training program in place? Are technicians waiting to use a particular scanner or waiting to access information from the shop's workstation computer?
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      Once you have determined the correct labor rate and pricing, review your entire operation. Then, tighten up on all those labor leaks and inefficiencies. Improving production and paying close attention to the labor on each job will add much-needed dollars to your bottom line.
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