Quantcast
Jump to content


Recommended Posts

Posted

We are in the process of subscribing to a shop data resource to add to our Identifix subscription. Right now, we are looking at Mitchell ProDemand and AllData. This is for repair data online, not estimating, RO writing, or shop management. I would rather keep that out of the discussion.

 

I have used Mitchell OnDemand and AllData for years. Between those two, AllData wins hands down. AllData presents the data clearly in an easy to search format. Mitchell OnDemand had everything all over the place, and I spent valuable time simply looking through all the various links. However, I have not tried the new Mitchell ProDemand software yet.

 

What do you guys keep at your shop, and do you feel that it is sufficient?



Posted

I use Mitchell. Just upgraded to the Pro Demand and going thru a learning curve. I used Alldata when I first opened and switched to Mitchell based on their management program. I can say the new Pro Demand search features are good. I expect to be able to drop Identifix after I get thru the process of learning the new system. They do have hyper links in-bedded in articles that will take to you to additional info. I like it.

  • Like 1
Posted

I tried Pro Demand for a year and was happy with the content, the only problem we had was getting the techs to use it. We have had All Data for 20 years and I couldn't get the techs to use Pro Demand. It is a bit of a learning curve to change over. All Data has made improvements to their platform so we are staying with them.

Posted

We have Mitchell pro demand and I would not recommend it. It's harder to navigate, a lot of general info that's not vehicle specific and it's search function is horrid.

 

For almost all repairs I find that alldata was easier with more PERTINENT info. We use Mitchell only because of the RO features.

Posted

I did have Mitchell On-Demand (downloaded from discs on my hard drive every quarter) and it was quick, to the point and everything I needed. Mitchell stopped supporting the discs so I changed to Pro-Demand since On-Demand will be phased out soon. I and my techs hate the new Pro-Demand. The information is no doubt there but difficult to locate. We have been using it for over six months so the problems are beyond normal learning curve issues. When I expressed my dissatisfaction the Mitchell rep informed me "that's odd, everyone else loves it". After being a Mitchell customer for 25 to 30 years I expected more than that comment. I need to replace Mitchell with something easier and quicker.

  • Like 1
Posted

Alldata or motologic. Motologic is missing some stuff and takes getting used too. Offers same setup as alldata with better wiring diagrams.

 

Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2

 

 

Posted

I did try Motologic and it was very easy to navigate and had very good information on some vehicles and almost nothing on other vehicles. We would enter year, make,model so many times to only find out there was no information that we stopped using it. Motologic has potential if they can fill in the holes and present a complete package.

Posted

I did try Motologic and it was very easy to navigate and had very good information on some vehicles and almost nothing on other vehicles. We would enter year, make,model so many times to only find out there was no information that we stopped using it. Motologic has potential if they can fill in the holes and present a complete package.

Its filled way in within the last 6 months. I dont care for the omv section though.

 

Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2

 

 

  • 3 weeks later...
  • 2 years later...
Posted

Is anyone using strictly Identifix WITHOUT AllData or Mitchell? We currently use All Data but got a trial run with Identifix and it looks like they have everything that AllData had with the addition of the forum/quick fixes......

Posted

I signed up for a free month. It is a robust program but it is more complicated and convoluted to search out basics than All Data. I thought All Data was difficult at first, too, but the learning curve was quick. Pro Demand isn't as intuitive BUT it integrates Identifix so you don't need both thus costing you a little less per month. You just have to have staff who are willing to learn the new software. We will stick with All Data and Identifix for now.

Posted (edited)

Is anyone using strictly Identifix WITHOUT AllData or Mitchell? We currently use All Data but got a trial run with Identifix and it looks like they have everything that AllData had with the addition of the forum/quick fixes......

 

We use Identifix exclusively for repair information. Like everyone else said about just every other option, it takes a little getting used to. We're happy with it though. Honestly, we probably don't even use all the features available

Edited by mmotley
Posted

Is anyone using strictly Identifix WITHOUT AllData or Mitchell? We currently use All Data but got a trial run with Identifix and it looks like they have everything that AllData had with the addition of the forum/quick fixes......

 

We use strictly Identifix, it does take a little getting used to. What I do like that is if I cannot find something in a shop manual or the vehicle is brand new and info has not been posted yet you send a quick email from the page and they back to you with the info. I have done this several times and I wanna say they usually respond in 15-20 minutes which I think is pretty good. In the end I think its money well spent and I don't find a need for another service.

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Available Subscriptions

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         0 comments
      It 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.
  • Similar Topics

    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at the 45th annual Mobile Air Climate Systems Conference (MACS 2025) in Orlando, Florida, the focus is on the critical topic of leak detection in automotive air conditioning systems. Two main leak detection methods are compared: dye leak detection, which uses fluorescent dyes and UV lights for visual identification, and electronic leak detection (ELD), which uses sensors to detect refrigerants. The discussion also covers the compatibility of these methods with various refrigerants, including those used in electric vehicles, and explores the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. John Godden, Production Operations Manager, Spectronics Corporation Matt Farel, Business Development- Service Tools, Inficon Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode MACS Training Event & Trade Show: https://macsmobileairclimate.org/ National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF): https://wp.nastf.org/ Koura: https://www.kouraglobal.com/ Honeywell: https://www.honeywell.com/us/en Leak Detection Discussion (00:00:00) Importance of Air Conditioning (00:02:12) Heat Pump Systems (00:03:03) Complementary Technologies (00:04:09) Tracers in Manufacturing (00:04:44) Visual vs. Electronic Detection (00:05:33) Safety of Refrigerants (00:07:50) Importance of UV Light (00:08:21) Using Multiple Detection Methods (00:09:33) Verifying Repairs (00:10:52) Preference in Detection Methods (00:12:06) Market Trends in Leak Detection (00:13:00) The Importance of Shop Management Systems (00:13:53) Training and Customization of Napa Trax (00:14:33) Leak Detection Methodologies (00:15:40) Dye Compatibility with Refrigerants (00:16:20) Tracer Gas Leak Detection (00:17:54) EVs and Leak Detection Challenges (00:19:45) Advancements in Leak Detector Technology (00:21:52) New Developments in Dye Products (00:23:38) Transition to Natural Refrigerants (00:24:29)
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA 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/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
    • By Freestate Auto and Truck
      Hello,
      Does anyone currently use TekMetric and do you recommend it? Any glitches, complaints, or concerns or success?
      If anyone is using a different SMS that you have a great experience with that meets your shops needs?
      We are currently using RO Writer and Autovitals DVI, but the reliability and capabilities of RO Writer are extremely lacking and frustrating. 
      Any input or advice would be greatly appreciated!
      Thank you!
      Michelle
    • By carmcapriotto
      Marketing your auto repair shop can be overwhelming, but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to be. Brian and Kim Walker break down essential marketing tools and tech to make the process easier, more effective, and even enjoyable.
      Discover how to simplify your social media strategy with tools like Meta Business Suite and Canva, optimize your website performance with SEMrush and Google Analytics, and create better customer engagement with NFC tap technology and HiHello digital business cards. They also dive into practical tips for video content creation, email marketing, and measuring ROI to ensure your efforts are paying off.
      If you’re ready to elevate your marketing without the hassle, this conversation will equip you with the insights and tools you need to succeed.
      Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal’s Certified Network of shops are trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at
      RepairPal.com/shops. 
      Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.
      Show Notes with Timestamps
      Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) The podcast introduces the hosts and sets the stage for discussing marketing tools. Marketing Tools Overview (00:01:22) Brian discusses the importance of using effective marketing tools for auto repair shops. Social Media Planning (00:02:39) Kim emphasizes the need for strategic planning in social media marketing. Meta Business Suite (00:03:32) Discussion on using Meta Business Suite for scheduling posts on Facebook and Instagram. Social Media Scheduling Tools (00:04:11) Kim shares various tools for scheduling social media content, including Plantable and Hootsuite. Canva for Graphics (00:05:14) Introduction to Canva as a user-friendly graphic design tool for non-designers. Accessing the Meta Planner (00:05:39) Instructions on how to access the Meta planner within Facebook's business settings. Facebook Group for Shop Owners (00:06:07) Promotion of the Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Facebook group for shop owners to share ideas. Tracking Social Media Engagement (00:08:10) Importance of using link shorteners like Bitly to track social media engagement. Link Tree for Instagram (00:09:12) Discussion on using Link Tree to manage multiple links from an Instagram bio. Search Engine Optimization Tools (00:10:21) Brian introduces SEO tools that can simplify the process of optimizing website content. SEMrush Overview (00:10:57)  Detailed look at SEMrush as a comprehensive tool for SEO tasks. Ahrefs for Backlink Audits (00:12:21) Introduction to Ahrefs for managing backlinks in competitive SEO environments. Local SEO Tools (00:13:51)  Discussion on Local Viking and Local Falcon for tracking Google Business Profile rankings.  UVA's Auto Biz IQ (00:14:37) Mention of a specific tool for auto repair shops to analyze local SEO performance. Digital Advertising Planning (00:14:49) Importance of careful planning in digital advertising to avoid unnecessary spending. Using Google Sheets for Ads (00:15:53) Emphasizing organization with spreadsheets for tracking and analyzing digital ads. Keyword Planning for Ads (00:16:59) Discussing the necessity of keyword planning tools for effective ad targeting. Understanding UTM Tracking (00:17:36)   Explaining UTM tracking parameters for detailed insights into marketing performance. Combining UTM with Link Shorteners (00:19:32) Using link shorteners like Bitly to manage long UTM links effectively. RepairPal Introduction (00:21:05) Highlighting RepairPal as a resource for connecting auto repair shops with new customers. Customer Loyalty Apps (00:22:12) Promoting App Fueled for creating custom loyalty apps for auto repair businesses. Video Marketing Tools (00:22:21) Discussing essential video tools for auto repair shops without needing professional help. Simplicity in Video Creation (00:23:15) Encouraging simplicity in video production to avoid overcomplication and promote consistency. Website Tools for Auto Repair Shops (00:27:17)  Recommending Auto Ops as a top scheduling tool for auto repair shops. Website Building Recommendations (00:28:01)  Suggesting Squarespace for easy website building for beginners in auto repair. Importance of Original Photos (00:29:06)  Encouraging the use of original photography for websites instead of stock images. Photography Tips (00:30:13)  Discusses the value of good photography, even with basic tools like cell phones. Email Marketing Tools (00:30:31)  Introduces Constant Contact and Mailchimp for effective email marketing strategies. CRM Capabilities (00:31:15)  Highlights the importance of utilizing built-in email features within CRMs for customer communication. App Fuelled Overview (00:31:17)  Explains App Fuelled as a comprehensive CRM beyond just app creation for auto shops. Monthly Email Strategy (00:32:14)  Encourages sending monthly emails to clients for better engagement and communication. Marketing Insights (00:33:02)  Discusses measuring marketing effectiveness through Meta insights and analytics tools. Google Analytics Overview (00:35:19)  Explains how Google Analytics and Search Console provide website performance insights. Looker Studio Introduction (00:36:15)  Introduces Looker Studio as a free tool for creating KPI dashboards similar to agency analytics. ChatGPT in Marketing (00:37:17)  Covers the potential and risks of using AI tools like ChatGPT for content creation. Follower Counter Gadget (00:39:33)  Describes a fun gadget that tracks social media followers in real-time at physical locations. NFC Tap Technology (00:41:11)  Explains how NFC technology can simplify sharing contact information for auto repair shops. Digital Business Cards (00:43:36)  Promotes using digital business cards for easy sharing of contact information. Podcasting for Auto Shops (00:45:10)  Suggests that auto repair shops consider starting a podcast to connect with their audience. Digital Notebook Discussion (00:45:15)  Kim shares her experience with the Remarkable digital notebook for note-taking and organization. Organizing Notes (00:46:11)  She explains how she uses the notebook for various categories like faith, business, and conference notes. Features of the Remarkable (00:47:06)  Discussion on the features of the Remarkable, including customizable templates and pen options. Podcast Promotion (00:47:58)  Brian promotes episode 57, discussing whether auto repair shops should have their own podcasts. Final Thoughts and Contact (00:48:12)  Kim invites listeners to share tech tools and podcast ideas via email. Community Engagement (00:49:07)  Brian encourages joining their Facebook group, the Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind. Acknowledging Sponsors (00:49:16)  Brian thanks the sponsors, Repair Pal and App Field, for their support of the podcast.
      How To Get In Touch
      Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
      Website - shopmarketingpros.com 
      Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 
      Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book
      Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 
      Questions/Ideas - [email protected]
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-057-should-your-shop-have-a-podcast/ - Should Your Shop Have a Podcast?
      https://remarkable.com/ - Remarkable Notebook
      Thanks to our Partners,
      RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops. Quality Car Repair. Fair Price Guarantee.
      App Fueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
      Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      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.
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class The "Great Correction" refers to a shift in the industry after a period of relative ease, likely due to pandemic related factors. The key concerns include a decrease in online searches for auto repair, rising costs, increased competition from dealerships, labor shortages, rapid advancements in technology (EVs, ADAS, AI), and the need to explore new revenue opportunities like key services, ADAS calibration, tires, and truck repairs. These issues suggest that the strategies that worked in the past may no longer be effective. Ryan Daily, Business Coach, The Institute Wayne Marshall, Business Coach, The Institute Fred Hule II, Business Coach, The Institute Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Introduction of Guests (00:00:00) Market Challenges (00:02:14) Customer Education Importance (00:04:01) Effective Communication (00:05:16) Listening to Customers (00:06:49) Value of Language in Services (00:08:34) Customer Trust and Attrition (00:09:21) New Car Sales Impact (00:10:20) Facility Appeal (00:12:26) Investing in Facilities (00:14:09) Profitability Challenges (00:15:17) Mindset Shift in Shop Owners (00:16:16) Value Proposition Discussion (00:17:21) Continuous Improvement in Service (00:18:03) Understanding Profit Targets (00:18:49) Shop Management Systems (00:19:51) Training Service Advisors (00:21:06). Proper Vehicle Inspections (00:22:01) Communication with Customers (00:28:15) Follow  Up Strategies (00:29:45) Educating Customers on Maintenance (00:32:15) Company Culture and Staff Engagement (00:34:02) Understanding Expectations (00:35:59) Customer Engagement (00:36:55) Cultural Impact (00:37:36) Continuous Education (00:39:30) Investment in Staff (00:40:36) Onboarding Process (00:42:33) Industry Transformation (00:44:38) Adapting to Change (00:46:31)
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA 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/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
    • By marxautocenter
      Hello everyone,
       
       Currently we use RO Writer and Auto Vitals to manage our shop workflow. It works out very well overall, but I'm looking for a way to keep track of daily/weekly shop numbers in a clean and easy to read format. We found it difficult to get clear numbers in RO writer, and use the punch in/out feature in Auto Vitals for time keeping (which limits our reporting features in RO writer). I'm looking for other shop owners who use this combination to tell me they way they keep track of their daily/weekly numbers, such as technician hours worked/billed, comebacks, declined work, sold recommended (and develop a ratio from declined work/sold recommended).
       
      I'm working on a Google sheet now, but I'm looking for opinions on what you find easiest to read, while limiting entering too much information multiple times.
       
      Thank you for your comments in advance!
       
      Cheers!


  • Our Sponsors

×
×
  • Create New...