Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z

• Why Do We Really Use EGR? [E191]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingIn this technical deep-dive, Matt Fanslow tackles the misconceptions surrounding Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) in modern engines. Far from just a NOx-reduction tool, EGR plays a critical role in thermal efficiency, throttling losses, and combustion control. Matt dismantles common myths (like "lean burns hotter") and explains why engineers use EGR—even as technology evolves.Key Topics CoveredEGR’s Real PurposeBeyond NOx reduction: How inert exhaust gases slow flame fronts, improve thermal efficiency, and reduce throttling losses.Why lean air/fuel ratios don’t burn hotter—but can still cook exhaust valves.Throttling Losses & EfficiencyHow EGR allows wider throttle openings, reducing engine workload and boosting fuel economy.The link between EGR, Atkinson/Miller cycles, and extended combustion push.Internal EGR & Valve TimingModern engines use cam phasing to trap exhaust gases, creating insulating "pockets" that reduce heat loss to cylinder walls.SAE paper highlights: HCCI engines, controlled auto-ignition, and residual gas effects.Why This Matters for TechniciansUnderstanding EGR helps diagnose drivability issues, software updates, and emission failures.Matt’s rabbit-hole warning: Complexity is growing, but so are diagnostic opportunities.Notable Quotes"Lean air/fuel ratios burn longer, not hotter—that’s why exhaust valves fry.""EGR isn’t just about emissions; it’s about making the engine work smarter, not harder.""The more you know why engineers do something, the better you’ll diagnose it."Resources & ReferencesSAE Papers (Available at sae.org):Lean Burn SI Engines: NOx Control via Air/Fuel Ratio Modulation (2017)Impact of Valve Timing on Cold Start Emissions in GDI Engines (2019)Effects of Valve Timing on Residual Gas, Combustion, and Heat Transfer (2009)Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingNAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.Contact InformationEmail Matt: [email protected] the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyThe 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.

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• Beyond the Oil Change: What I Learned at the Quick Lube [E190]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingKey Discussion Points:Introduction & Personal AnecdoteExplains his motivation for visiting a quick lube shop: to observe different shop practices and customer experiences.The Quick Lube ExperienceInitial Interaction: Shop employee questions the high mileage (300,000) on Matt’s Honda and suggests a possible engine replacement.Upsell attempts begin immediately, including high-mileage oil with unverified fuel economy benefits.Air Filter Upsell: Employee claims a dirty air filter significantly impacts fuel economy—Matt debunks this myth, citing modern mass airflow sensor engines.Notes that restricted air filters may improve fuel economy or have no effect.Cabin Air Filter Incident: Employee misgenders Matt’s son (who has long hair) while accessing the glove box.Matt critiques the approach, suggesting gender-neutral language when interacting with customers.Coolant Flush Upsell: Employee claims the coolant should be flushed annually (without evidence) and criticizes another shop’s pricing.Matt finds this tactic dishonest and unprofessional, especially without knowing the specifics of the previous service.Industry Critiques & ObservationsUpselling Tactics: Questions whether misleading claims (e.g., air filters hurting fuel economy) stem from lack of training or corporate policy.Criticizes the focus on commission over honesty.Bashing Competitors: Disapproves of shops disparaging others based solely on price without understanding service details.Argues this erodes customer trust and harms the industry long-term.Customer Interaction: Highlights the importance of transparency and avoiding gender assumptions.Reflects on whether exaggerated "skill level" claims (e.g., "this was really hard to do") build customer confidence or backfire.Listener EngagementAsks listeners to share their experiences:Have you visited other shops as a "regular customer"? What did you observe?Do you reveal your industry background, or play along to see how you’re treated?How do you handle unethical practices when you encounter them?Closing ThoughtsReiterates refusal to badmouth competitors or compete on price alone.Advocates for integrity, proper training, and focusing on quality repairs.Call to Action:Share your stories: Email Matt at [email protected] or message via Facebook.Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingNAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.Contact InformationEmail Matt: [email protected] the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyThe Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/Remarkable Results Radio...

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• Are You Using DTCs to Diagnose Vehicles? [E142]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA AutotechMatt Fanslow reflects on the profound influence of his mentor, Jim Wilson. He discusses Jim's unique diagnostic approach and the importance of networking and continuous learning from industry stalwarts.Show NotesThe influence of mentorship (00:00:11) Learning from case studies (00:02:35) Diagnostic techniques (00:05:00) Understanding DTCs (00:07:39) Diagnostic strategies (00:12:10) Networking and mentorship (00:17:53) Facebook Groups (00:18:53) Learning from Archives and Mentors (00:22:25) Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com Email Matt: [email protected] the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HEREAftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

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• Rebounding After Failure [E141]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA AutotechMatt Fanslow reflects on his early experiences in the automotive industry. He discusses the struggles and challenges he faced, as well as the opportunities that led him to specialize in diagnostics. Matt emphasizes the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and hands-on experience. Show NotesA former employee (00:01:14) Discussion about a former employee's misconceptions about success in the automotive industry.Early career experiences (00:02:33) Details about Matt's upbringing on a farm, education, and early jobs at a Ford dealership.Challenges in the dealership environment (00:04:56) Struggles faced in adapting to the dealership environment and the lack of proper training.Transition to a parts store (00:12:00) Transition to working at a parts store, experiences with computer-based systems, and forming relationships with different shops.Career transition to a repair shop (00:15:44) Taking a pay cut to work at a repair shop, focusing on diagnostics.Importance of training and education (00:16:53) Dedication to learning through training, reading industry publications, and attending classes.Napa Autotech Training (00:19:17) Promotion of various training sessions offered by Napa Autotech for automotive professionals.Drive for Improvement (00:21:33) Personal reflections on the drive to improve skills and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges.Overcoming Failure (00:23:51) Reflections on overcoming failure.Resilience and Growth (00:24:42) Discussion on getting knocked down, learning from failures, and using setbacks as a springboard for long-term success.Continuous Improvement (00:26:17) Emphasis on the importance of continuous improvement and the value of dedication and hard work.Striving for Excellence (00:27:37) Encouragement to find inspiration, work hard, and strive for excellence in the automotive industry.Perseverance and Improvement (00:28:49) Personal experiences of overcoming challenges and the importance of creating an environment for improvement in automotive shops.Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com Email Matt: [email protected] the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HEREAftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

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• Tool Dealer Quid Pro Quo [E140]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com Matt Fanslow discusses the importance of forming relationships with tool truck dealers. He emphasizes the benefits of sharing information and knowledge, highlighting the potential for mutual support and collaboration within the automotive industry. Show NotesInteractions with Tool Dealers (00:01:08) Discussion on the visits by tool dealers and the challenges in communicating needs and preferences to them.Developing Relationships (00:02:15) Importance of developing relationships with tool dealers, outside salespeople, and distributors, emphasizing the need for networking and knowledge sharing.Challenges with Tool Offerings (00:03:37) Exploration of the limitations and challenges in the offerings of tool dealers, including the lack of awareness about alternative products.Quid Pro Quo in Information Sharing (00:05:03) Discussion on the concept of quid pro quo, where information sharing with tool dealers can lead to mutual benefits over time.Challenges Faced by Tool Dealers (00:06:14) Insight into the challenges faced by tool dealers in keeping up with product knowledge.Enhancing Relationships with Tool Dealers (00:13:04) Encouragement for forming strong relationships with tool dealers, emphasizing the mutual exchange of knowledge and support.Expanding Services and Product Offerings (00:16:01) Exploration of the potential for expanding services and product offerings, including high voltage gloves and technical tools, to support the evolving needs of automotive professionals.Symbiotic Relationship with Tool Dealers (00:17:19) Emphasis on the symbiotic relationship between automotive professionals and tool dealers, highlighting the mutual benefits of collaboration.Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com Email Matt: [email protected] the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HEREAftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

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