SOS - Shop Owner Solutions

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Jan 2026

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About the show

In this podcast series, Shop Owner Solutions hosts discuss some of the nightmares independent automotive repair shop owners face with leading shop owners from across the country. Shop Owner Solutions is intended to help you avoid the 3 am panic – together, Vic Tarasik from Shop Owner Coach and Doug Kaufman from ShopOwner magazine will explore the things that cause you the most stress, put your anxiety into high gear and keep you from feeling like you’re achieving the success you deserve.

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30 recent

January 30, 202621 min

Diagnose Mystery Vehicle Vibrations: Tests, OEM Parts and Fixes for Auto Repair Shops

Doug Kaufman from ShopOwner and Angel Lara from TrakMotive dig into the real causes of mysterious vehicle vibrations—beyond tires and wheel balance. They discuss overlooked parts (wheel bearings, axles, suspension), damage from improper parts or installs, diagnostic blind spots, and how better advisor/technician/customer communication plus OEM-spec parts reduce comebacks.Vibrations often stem from less-obvious components: wheel bearings, worn axles, suspension, rust damage.Improper parts or lifts and oversized tires accelerate wear and cause new failures.OEM-spec parts and correct installation prevent collateral drivetrain damage.Misdiagnosis often arises from missing customer detail or inability to replicate driving conditions.Simple tests (actuate suspension, listen on the lift) and clearer communication improve first-time fixes.TrakMotive supplies OEM-engineered parts to lower warranty claims and boost satisfaction.ShopOwnerMag.comTrakMotive.Com

August 12, 202516 min

Shop Owner Solutions: Addressing CV Axle Issues in Lifted Trucks

In this episode of Shop Owner Solutions, Doug Kaufman interviews Miguel Cornejo from TrakMotive about the increasing issues with CV axle failures, especially in lifted Toyota and Subaru vehicles. They discuss how lifting these vehicles changes the undercar geometry, leading to increased stress and premature wear on CV joints and boots. Cornejo explains that many customers experience clicking or popping sounds and grease leaks after lifting their vehicles.The conversation emphasizes the importance of educating technicians and DIYers about these potential problems and recommends upgrading to application-specific CV axles designed for lifted vehicles, like TrakMotive's XTT line, which compensates for the altered angles. They also touch on the significance of considering motor mount durability, especially in Subarus with horizontally opposed engines, where vibrations can exacerbate CV axle issues. Miguel encourages listeners to visit the TrakMotive website for specific problem-solving resources and to contact their tech department with any questions.

February 24, 202514 min

Winterizing Your Business with TrakMotive's HDX Axles

While we often focus on engines and brakes, CV axles are crucial components that often get overlooked. Miguel highlights that the definition of "heavy-duty" has evolved. It's no longer just limited to semis and mining equipment. Today, many standard vehicles — ride-sharing cars, delivery vehicles and work trucks— experience conditions demanding a more robust axle design.In this episode of Shop Owner Solutions, host Doug Kaufman delves into the often-overlooked world of heavy-duty CV axles and the significant business opportunities they present, especially during harsh winter conditions. Miguel Cornejo, Product Manager at TrakMotive, a leading manufacturer of CV axles, drive shafts, and window regulators explains the challenges and solutions surrounding CV axle maintenance and repair. The HD Extreme axle currently covers a significant portion of the automotive market and TrakMotive is constantly expanding its coverage. Cornejo encourages shops to check TrakMotive's website (trakmotive.com) for the latest updates. Actionable Tips for Shop Owners: Educate Your Customers: Emphasize the cost of breakdowns versus the long-term value of a durable axle like the HDX.Proactive Inspections: Encourage regular inspections during oil changes to identify potential issues early.Leverage TrakMotive Resources: Utilize their website, email support, and technical line for additional information and support. By focusing on preventative maintenance and utilizing high-quality parts like TrakMotive's HD Extreme axles, shop owners can position themselves for success. This is not simply about replacing parts—it's about providing customers with peace of mind and building a stronger, more resilient business. Contact TrakMotive today to learn more about the HDX axle and its potential for your shop.

December 19, 202415 min

Window Regulators - When You Notice Them, There's Trouble

In this episode of the Shop Owner Solutions podcast, Doug Kaufman interviews Jeff Gagliano, window regulator product specialist at TrakMotive. Jeff discusses the often-overlooked importance of window regulators, explaining their function, types, and common issues. These mechanical assemblies inside car doors move windows up and down, with manual cranks or power buttons operating scissor-style or cable-driven systems.Jeff highlights how modern power regulators, while convenient, are prone to wear and tear due to their complex components, such as motors and control modules. Frequent use, climate, and poor-quality replacements can accelerate failure. He emphasizes the value of quality aftermarket parts, which often surpass OEM designs by incorporating enhanced features like metal components, thicker cables, and anti-pinch technology. For repair professionals, Jeff provides practical insights into diagnosing window regulator issues. Symptoms include grinding noises, misaligned windows, or unresponsive motors. He stresses the importance of selecting superior replacement parts, like those from TrakMotive, which offer design improvements and a lifetime warranty. TrakMotive’s rigorous R&D process, involving real OE doors for testing, ensures durability and ease of installation. Jeff also shares maintenance tips to extend the life of window regulators. Regularly clean tracks, lubricate moving parts, avoid slamming doors, and use windows periodically to prevent mechanical issues. He notes that while DIY repairs are possible for the mechanically inclined, professional repairs often guarantee a better outcome. TrakMotive’s commitment to innovation and quality has solidified its reputation in the window regulator market. Professionals and consumers alike can rely on TrakMotive for high-quality, long-lasting products. For more information, visit TrakMotive.com.

October 30, 202434 min

Embrace Innovation Today For Success Tomorrow

In this episode of the Shop Owner Solutions podcast, ShopOwner editor Doug Kaufman discusses the importance of innovation and adaptability for businesses with Jeff Kritzer, BendPak president and CEO. The company started as a small machine shop, then diversified into making pipe benders and muffler racks.Through the creative spirit and risk-taking of leaders like Jeff Kritzer, BendPak continually introduced new products and expanded into new markets, rather than staying complacent in their original offerings. This allowed the company to thrive while many of their competitors in the muffler shop business declined. Customer service is a top priority for BendPak, as evidenced by Kritzer's hands-on involvement and commitment to rapid response times.Kritzer emphasizes the importance of "first call resolution" and being available to personally address customer concerns, rather than routing issues through complex ticket systems. He believes that quickly resolving customer problems, even minor ones, is critical to maintaining strong relationships and a positive reputation in the industry.Kritzer encourages shop owners and other industry professionals to embrace change and diversification, rather than remaining stuck in the status quo. He views complacency as the death knell for many businesses, and believes that introducing new revenue streams, adapting to market shifts, and providing excellent customer service are key to long-term success. Kritzer's own personal involvement and innovative mindset serve as an inspiration for others looking to grow their businesses.ShopOwnerMag.comBendPak.com

July 12, 202410 min

Understanding The Evolution of Modern Driveshafts

In this episode of Shop Owner Solutions, Doug Kaufman, editor of Shop Owner Magazine, interviews Miguel Cornejo, product manager for TrakMotive to discuss the importance and function of driveshafts in vehicles. "Driveshafts are responsible for transferring torque from the engine to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to move," explains Cornejo. "They are precision-balanced and weighted to minimize vibration and noise. Of course, the configuration of driveshafts varies depending on the type of vehicle."The hosts also highlight the different types of driveshafts and the engineering that goes into their design. They discuss common issues that can occur with driveshafts, such as U joint problems and alignment issues. Diagnostic steps for identifying driveshaft issues are also mentioned, including clunking sounds and vibrations during acceleration. This episode of Shop Owner Solutions is sponsored by TrakMotive, a leading global manufacturer of new CV axles, ATV and UTV CV axles, driveshafts and window regulators for automotive and light duty truck applications with a continued focus on meeting or exceeding OE specifications on every product. For more information, visit trakmotive.com.

March 1, 202420 min

Can Your Techs Diagnose and Repair Modern Axle Complaints?

In this episode of Shop Owner Solutions, Doug Kaufman, editor of Shop Owner Magazine, interviews Miguel Cornejo, product manager for TrakMotive. They discuss the common causes of axle failure, such as road conditions, vehicle modifications, and improper installation. They also emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and inspection to prevent axle failure.Cornejo explains TrakMotive’s comprehensive range of product lines to cater to different vehicle applications. The XTT line is designed for lifted vehicles and offers increased articulation and durability. The HDX line provides an upgraded OE replacement axle, while the Monoblock line offers a one-piece design for specific applications.They also discuss the symptoms of axle failure, such as clunking, popping, and vibrations. Cornejo recommends inspecting the axle for torn boots, grease slinging, and damaged clips before installation. He also emphasizes the importance of following proper installation procedures, including torque specifications and avoiding the use of impact tools.Cornejo advises installers to use the VIN decoder on the TrakMotive website to ensure the correct axle is selected for each vehicle. In addition, he highlights other resources available on the TrakMotive website, including tech bulletins, installation tips and ways to contact the technical team. He encourages installers to reach out to their tech support team for assistance with any questions or issues.Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into the complexities of diagnosing and repairing CV axle and drive shaft complaints.This episode of Shop Owner Solutions is sponsored by TrakMotive, a leading global manufacturer of new CV axles, ATV and UTV CV axles, drive shafts and window regulators for automotive and light duty truck applications with a continued focus on meeting or exceeding OE specifications on every product.For more information, visit trakmotive.com.

December 28, 202318 min

Surviving The Season - How To Handle the Holidays With Sanity And Satisfaction

It's the most wonderful time of the year. Commercials and holiday movies tell us it's the time to sit quietly, reflecting on family and friends. Basking in the blessings you have. Soft music, twinkling lights, gentle snowflakes. You know the stories. All is calm, all is bright – unless you're a shop owner trying to get through the end of the year with your sanity intact. We're talking about surviving the Christmas chaos, the Hanukkah havoc, the Kwanza craziness. In this Shop Owner Solutions podcast episode, Doug Kaufman and Clint Cooper discuss the challenges that shop owners face during the holiday season and offer tips on how to navigate the chaos. They emphasize the importance of balancing personal and professional pressures, especially when it comes to managing employees and customer expectations.Cooper shares personal stories of his experiences growing up in a muffler shop and witnessing the struggles and successes of his parents as small business owners. He highlights the significance of showing compassion and appreciation to employees during the holidays, whether through holiday bonuses or thoughtful gifts.Cooper also emphasizes the importance of taking time for oneself and not letting the stress of the season consume shop owners. He encourages shop owners to reflect on their experiences and make resolutions to be more mindful and proactive in the coming year.This episode is sponsored by AP Emissions. Since 1927, AP Emissions Technologies has been serving customers in the light and commercial vehicle aftermarkets with a passion for innovation, enabling them to stay at the forefront of emissions and exhaust products.

November 13, 202326 min

Confusion, Carcasses and Catalytic Converters - Dealing With Warranty Return Headaches

The auto care industry in the US is a significant part of the economy, generating nearly $480 billion in revenue and employing millions of people. However, the industry also faces a high rate of parts returns, with nearly one in four auto parts being returned. This is a costly and wasteful issue that needs to be addressed.In this episode of Shop Owner Solutions, Doug Kaufman and Clint Cooper from AP Emissions discuss the best way to eliminate warranty return waste - by fixing the REAL problem that caused the failure in the first place.One of the main reasons for returns is customers ordering the wrong part or failing to diagnose the issue correctly. Manufacturers in the aftermarket space are concerned about this issue and are working to improve cataloging accuracy and provide better diagnostic support to customers. Additionally, warranty abuse is a problem, with some customers returning perfectly good parts or even sending back unrelated items.The durability of aftermarket parts compared to OE parts is also discussed, with aftermarket parts designed to last the remaining life of the vehicle rather than the entire lifespan.Warranty issues with mufflers and pipes are also mentioned, including sound attenuation and fitment problems. Overall, the industry is working to reduce returns and improve customer satisfaction.This episode is sponsored by AP Emissions. Since 1927, AP Emissions Technologies has been serving customers in the light and commercial vehicle aftermarkets with a passion for innovation, enabling them to stay at the forefront of emissions and exhaust products.

October 17, 202318 min

Finding The Techs You Want, Keeping The Ones You Need

In part one of this two-part conversation about the who and how of hiring, Roy Niemi of A and D Auto and Body Repair explained what goes into finding great employees in this environment. That's critical, but even more important? Keeping the great ones you already have.In part 2 of this special Shop Owner Solutions interview, Roy Niemi, owner of A and D Auto and Body Repair in Haslett, MI, discusses his methods for hiring and retaining great employees in the automotive industry. He emphasizes the importance of looking for specific traits and attributes in potential hires, such as confidence, good character, and motivation. With host Doug Kaufman, Niemi also highlights the value of involving the existing team in the hiring process through group interviews and discussions. To retain employees, Niemi stresses the need for regular interaction and engagement, setting goals and expectations, and understanding their individual aspirations. He also shares the benefits of implementing a four-day work schedule, which allows for more recuperation time and has increased productivity in his shop. Shop Owner Solutions is sponsored by AP Emissions.