As a solution, an increasing number of shops are investing in computerized vehicle inspection equipment. Computerized inspection equipment speeds and automates the inspection process, enabling shops to perform complete undercar inspections and find potential repair opportunities quickly and easily.

An average of 25% of the vehicles tested on the sideslip meter will show indications of either alignment problems or worn parts. In most shops, alignment alone represents a minimum of $80.00 in service revenue.

Many shops have installed the equipment in write-ups areas to test vehicles as customers arrive. The high visibility of the inspection equipment and the ability to show customers the results of brake, suspension and alignment tests in minutes greatly increase the likelihood that customers will authorize additional service, particularly as they can see the tests being performed and view the results on-screen even before the service advisor makes any suggestions.

Computerized inspection equipment measures vehicle components as they would perform on the road, making the inspection easier to relate to customers experiences.

The inspection equipment operates from a PC-based console. The inspection software analyzes test data and displays results on-screen in easy-to-read, color-coded graphics that are automatically printed out to be shown to the customer as evidence of needed repairs. After the test, the system resets itself for the next vehicle without any input from an operator.

The inspection equipment consists of three systems: a brake tester, suspension analyzer and sideslip meter.

Each system can be used independently or together in a variety of combinations. The modular components can be configured to fit the most challenging space requirements or to match the service profile of virtually any shop.

The brake tester measures side-to-side brake balance, front-to-rear brake balance, brake force efficiency, deceleration, and vehicle weight at each wheel. With the capability to measure the brakes on each wheel independently and calculate weight shift when braking, the brake tester can show specific deficiencies that may cause the vehicle to spin or stop inefficiently in emergency situations.

An average of 12 percent of vehicles tested on a brake tester show brake failure at one or more wheels. A typical four-wheel brake service job brings in $180 in repair revenue.

The suspension analyzer measures each corner of a vehicle’s suspension for tire adhesion and damping. This test gauges if the tires are maintaining proper contact with the road for effective steering and braking. It also measures the vehicle’s ability to control excessive suspension and vehicle body motion.

MOVING PARTS

The sideslip meter measures each axle to determine the presence of tire scrub, an indicator of misalignment or worn suspension components.

An average of 7% of vehicles tested on a suspension analyzer show suspension failure at one or more wheels. On average, shock or strut service increases a job ticket by $130.00.