47 minute read
Commercially viable
from Modern Tire Dealer - April 2015
by EndeavorBusinessMedia-VehicleRepairGroup
Goodyear beefs up benefts for Commercial Tire & Service Network
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. is enhancing its year-old Goodyear Commercial Tire & Service Network with new features and benefts in 2015.
Gary Medalis, director of marketing for Goodyear Commercial Tire Systems, says, “We laid the foundation for Commercial Tire & Service Network last year by connecting dealers and ofering them excellent benefts, everything from direct mail programs to dealer locator priority, and beyond.”
Tose new features include: • Custom, state-of-the-art Dealer websites “that will let the end user know that you are part of the Goodyear Commercial Tire & Service Network in order to drive more trafc to your location;” • A special purchasing program for shop and truck equipment, tools and other items; • Training support through the Goodyear Learning Center; • A new, all-digital Dealer Tool Kit that will serve as a onestop, online shop for news, promotions, product information and links to other Web sites.
In addition, network members will have access to the new Goodyear Smart Tech App, which Warren Croyle, brand
marketing operations manager for Goodyear Commercial says “is designed to make the road service process easier for our servicing dealers and the end user.
Te network is driving top and botom line growth for its members, Croyle says.
To learn more, visit www.goodyeartrucktires.com.
Michelin creates seamless tubes for farm tires
Michelin North America Inc. is introducing a lineup of tire tubes for agricultural, implement and compact line equipment. Michelin Tubes, designed to ft all tires, are made of 100% butyl rubber in a seamless design that can prevent splitting or puncture after installation. “This seamless construction is unique to the Michelin Tubes and is just one way the product helps ensure peace of mind after installation,” says James Crouch, farm and compact segment market manager for Michelin North America. Many farmers fll their tubes with fuid to increase equipment weight in order to minimize slip and ultimately gain traction. Adding ballast to a tractor allows farmers to customize the weight of their machines, depending on the application, which in turn allows them to maximize the tractor’s horsepower. However, some of the liquid ballast used by farmers can be corrosive to the tire and, as a result, may leak into the wheel. Crouch says the butyl rubber construction of the Michelin Tubes provides an airtight seal to defend against corrosive liquid ballast options. Crouch says the tubes also can help extend the life of farm tires. If a tire is punctured or damaged during the season, a tube can be installed as a temporary measure until the tire can be replaced. “The new Michelin Tubes are constructed of the same material as the inner liner of the Michelin agriculture tire,” says Crouch. Michelin says its tubes will ft up to nearly 200 different tire sizes for all types of agricultural, implement and compact line tire dealers throughout North America. MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14160 www.mtdquiklink.com/14160
Cooper’s new Roadmaster designed for drop-deck trailers
There’s a new Roadmaster tire specifcally engineered to withstand the demands of drop-deck trailers. The RM272 features a new tread design and compounding that provides improved tread wear and protection against cutting and chipping. With 16/32-inch tread depth, it’s available in size 255/70R22.5 in load range H. “It’s one tough tire designed for one demanding application,” says Gary Schroeder, director of commercial vehicle and original equipment manufacturer sales for Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. “Tires on a drop-deck trailer take some of the harshest punishment. Often they don’t get replaced due to mileage, they get replaced due to tread damage, such as scrubbing or tearing. “The new RM272 is designed to withstand these conditions and we believe this tire will be a top performer in the industry.” Featuring a four-belt steel casing, the RM272 has a slightly rounded tread footprint, along with a reinforced shoulder, to help withstand extreme side forces. “When the tire was in development, we tested its performance against three types of concrete surfaces to match diffcult realworld conditions, including concrete with exposed limestone, and grooved bridge decking. “These tests enabled Cooper engineers to validate that the tire’s durability and performance levels exceeded everyday operating conditions.” COOPER TIRE & RUBBER CO. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14161 www.mtdquiklink.com/14161
An insight into tomorrow’s tires
Tire makers provide a look at technology of the future
It has certainly been a period of “show time” electrical energy. In efect, the BH03 will generate in Europe in the past couple of months with electricity through the action of piezoelectric and the internationally prestigious Geneva Motor thermoelectric materials in the tire that respectively Show in Switzerland, following February’s Tire transform deformation and heat energy created by Technology Expo in Germany (which I reported the rolling tire into electricity. Xavier also stated, on in the March edition of MTD). “With the demand for electric cars continuing
However, this article is not about another to grow, our BH03 technology has the exciting show, as my reason for atending this event was potential to signifcantly enhance the solution to capitalize on the perfect opportunity to meet of future mobility challenges.” and discuss the future with most of the global By John Stone Meanwhile, the Goodyear Triple Tube concept tire market’s leading manufacturers. tire consists of three internal air chambers located
Traditionally, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., Bridgestone beneath the tread area and close to the inboard and outboard Corp., Continental AG, Pirelli & Cie SpA, Yokohama Rubshoulders of the tire. Te function of the Triple Tube ber Co. Ltd. and Apollo Vredestein B.V. have exhibited at revolves around an internal pump that circulates air from the motor show, because it is the perfect stage to promote their latest original equipment paterns alongside the very latest vehicle marque designs. Terefore, I spent time at the show, having arranged appointments with each tire producer, to fnd out about their latest developments.
Goodyear
At the Goodyear booth, I met with Xavier Fraipont, director of tire technology in consumer tires in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, who was keen to point out the innovative benefts of two ground-breaking concept paterns on display that could radically change the perception of passenger car tires in the future. Fraipont said, “Our two new futuristic tire concepts — the BH03 and the Triple Tube — look set to ‘stretch the imagination’ and provide a tantalizing glimpse of what practical innovations could be on the horizon for the global tire industry.”
Te Goodyear BH03 ofers the possibility of charging the bateries of futuristic electric cars by transforming the heat and deformation generated by the rolling tire into
The BH03 was one of two futuristic tire concepts from Goodyear on display at the Geneva Motor Show. Goodyear’s Triple Tube concept tire has three internal air chambers that adjust to road conditions.
the main air chamber to three individual air chambers/ tubes, enabling the tire to automatically adjust to the three diferent positions/shapes — eco/safety, sporty and wet traction — according to the road conditions at the time.
Te eco/safety shape creates equal infation in all three tubes for reduced rolling resistance, while the sporty shape reduces infation within the inboard shoulder tube to ensure dry handling through an optimized tread contact patch. Finally, the wet traction shape maximizes infation in the center tube to give high aquaplaning resistance through a raised tread in the center of the tire.
Bridgestone
When I interviewed Gert Meylemans, Bridgestone Europe’s head of PR and corporate communications, he was keen to mention the company’s next chapter in reafrming the profle of its iconic Firestone brand in Europe with the recent launch of the Firestone “Multiseason” range, which is the brand’s frst venture into the “all-season” segment in
Europe. He said, “Although the Firestone brand is famous in North America, it has held a relatively low profle in Europe over the past 15 years until its re-emergence last year with the Firestone Destination HP range for SUV vehicles.”
Te Firestone Multiseason tire is specifcally promoted as a mid-segment brand, which has been specially manufactured for Europe to particularly excel in all weather conditions when fted to small- and mediumsized cars primarily doing urban driving in cities and towns and areas renowned for consistently bad weather conditions. Te Firestone Multiseason also provides impressive wet grip and excellent hydroplaning resistance and will be available in Europe in July in nine sizes from 13 up Bridgestone’s AirFree Concept tire is a non-pneumatic tire. to 16 inches.
Meylemans also spoke about Bridgestone’s Ecopia EP500 ecologic tire, which is currently fted to the BMW i3 electric car. Te tire presents a distinctive large tire diameter and narrow tread design for impressive advancements in aerodynamics, rolling resistance and improved grip performance.
Finally, I examined Bridgestone’s AirFree Concept, a nonpneumatic tire incorporating spokes thread through the rubber, which requires no maintenance as there is no air, making it a fully “‘cradle to grave” solution that maximizes the recycling of worn tires
Continental
Next on my visiting agenda was Continental. I chated with Alexander Bahlmann, head of media and PR for the European tire division, who explained that taking center stage on the booth was the new Conti.eContact range, which was recently introduced as the frst tire from Continental to have been specifcally designed for hybrid cars.
Bahlmann said, “Our new Conti.eContact range is also the frst summer tire to be graded an A rating in wet grip and rolling resistance within the European tire labeling legislation and is initially available in six size options in 17 and 18 inches with a V rating. With hybrid cars now increasingly popular on a global basis, we are ready to further develop this tire concept of a unique vehicle segment.”
Another big crowd-puller at the Continental booth was a vehicle fted with Conti’s much publicized dandelion tire concept. Alexander said, “So far, this revolutionary dandelion compound has been incorporated on our latest WinterContact TS 850P tire and successfully tested on wet and dry road surfaces, as well as on snow and ice.”
Yokohama
When I visited the Yokohama booth, I was met by David Andrew Oliva, communications manager, marketing department for the Replacement Business Division, Yokohama Europe GmbH, who informed me that Yokohama was launching its very latest highway terrain tire, the H/T GO56 for 4x4/SUV vehicles, within its popular Geolandar brand.
Te Geolandar H/T GO56 will become available in the next few months and has been exclusively produced for Europe. During the development stage of the tire, Yokohama conducted a survey of all European countries, with results indicating that various markets were looking for specifc performances in wet braking, tread wear and handling. Te results were taken into account when the tire was being manufactured.
Oliva told me, “Our GO56 tire ofers a unique compound which features ‘orange oil’ that improves wet grip and signifcantly shortens wet braking distances in European weather conditions. It also reduces low rolling resistance, improves pass-by-noise to meet current European standards, plus an innovative tread design which incorporates new advanced technology that will enhance wear performance and drive comfort.”
Te Geolandar H/T GO56 will initially become available in 25 size options from 15 up to 20 inches, and completes Yokohama’s comprehensive line-up of 4x4/SUV tires for Europe.
Pirelli
At the Pirelli booth, I spoke with Mateo Bataini, senior vice president for sales planning and supply chain, and Andrea Casaluci, operational marketing director, and learned about the company’s “Seal Inside” technology, which forms part of Pirelli’s “Extended Mobility” philosophy.
Battaini explained that Seal Inside allows motorists to continue driving without loss of tire pressure following a puncture of up to 4 mm. A sealing agent on the inside of the tire, once activated, solidifes around the foreign object that has caused the puncture to prevent air escaping. Also, once the object has been removed, the sealing agent expands to plug the gap. Tis latest technology is a further example of Pirelli’s total commitment to safety innovation.
Casaluci also pointed out that during the course of 2014, Pirelli introduced 266 new homologations, with 213 for the premium and prestige vehicle sectors. Te company now hold a record 1,846 current homologations on a global basis.
Apollo Vredestein
Finally, at the Apollo Vredestein booth a company spokesman pointed out that during the past 12 months, Apollo has had an extremely active trading period. Tat includes seting up of a greenfeld production facility in Hungary to support its main manufacturing plant in Te Netherlands, which has reached maximum capacity. Te new Hungarian plant will play an important roll in the future, with product demand expected to signifcantly increase in 2015.
So, although I was atending a motor show, it proved to be the perfect stage to witness the tires of tomorrow all under one roof. ■
John Stone has been working within the global tire industry for the past 20 years. In 2004 he launched his own consulting company, Sapphire Media Services, which caters to business media clients around the globe. Stone also writes for tire and automotive-related publications in Europe, South Afica and Asia.
100 years old and open to change
Harnessing the power of presentation
Since 1911, Daniels Tire Service has been and used reclaimed wood to add some character. Te serving the greater Los Angeles and surbig, fat, black computer monitors are now hidden with rounding areas with dependable, quality a message board that broadcasts simple interchangeable products and service. Daniels Tire Service is a messages. We modifed the Daniels Tire Service logo to premier provider of commercial tires and operates freshen it up, and then laser cut the new design into the a collection of retail tire and automotive repair reclaimed wood on the counter and into the message locations. One of their locations happens to be boards. A litle design goes a long way. a few blocks from my home, and I’ve used them The whole team at Daniels Tire got behind the successfully for a variety of automotive services project: Owner John Daniels, General Manager Brent for the last six years. By Wayne Williams Cole and Store Manager Sean Sookwongse. Tis team
Te retail sales counter is prime real estate. It’s understands customer service and customer experience; imperative that the sales counter, itself, help facilitate activities they do more than talk about it; they practice it daily. on both sides of the counter. It’s torture for me to watch sales Te scope of the project was simple, and the results speak staf and customers interact around this small counter space for themselves. Look at the before and afer photos. ... it’s awkward, dysfunctional, boring, ridiculous, and lacks intelligent design. Components of change
Te sales counter is only 18 inches deep and seven feet long. Willingness to change; desire to improve; a focus on Te surface space is consumed by monitors, keyboards and customer experience; two steel stools; two message boards; phones. Tere is very litle room for the sales staf to work one custom-made counter extension; one digital screen and almost no room for the customers. Tough there are message board; a two-tier tire stand to highlight tire specials; two stools for the customers to sit on, there is no overhang reroute a few cables; and add a few plants and air freshener. so customers sit sidesaddle at the counter. Tough providing Consider these facts: the stools for customers is thoughtful, the execution is less than ideal. • 75% of all buying decisions are made in the store. Te solution locations.
Design a simple extension that adds 14 inches to the depth • 60% of tire purchasers research on-line before buying. and one foot to the overall length; this almost doubles the • 75% of consumers depend on a dealer website. surface space. We decided to use a welded steel frame for • 92% of consumers buy their tires in the store. stability and strength, with a matching black Formica surface, • 90% of consumer purchases are made at brick and mortar Te best time to give it your best is at the time of purchase! Like we said in earlier articles, the sales counter is prime real estate; it’s a pivotal place; it’s the best place in your store to infuence customers; it’s the best place to tell your story, your best message; it’s the place to maximize your message. Tis simple extension to the sales counter is designed to infuence the buyer. Studies consistently show that the customer experience is vitally important to repeat business and customer loyalty. If we have the good fortune to have customers visit our store, we should make our best efort at the counter. Not only are we saying the right things, the counter is the place to optimize your message. Te collective message at the new Daniels Tire sales counter is this, “For over 100 years, we’ve been taking care of customers, we’re good at it, you can trust us, and we care.” You must deliver what customers want. It’s one thing to say you care about customers, you must prove it. You must prove it at the counter every day in every way; make it comfortable, make it pleasant, and make it professional. As you can see, the dealership’s original counter top Tis is the place to put your best message into action. was small, cramped and ineffcient. Optimize your message; optimize your value to the customer.
Continental’s ExtremeContact DWS 06
Superior all-season performance with no trade-ofs
By Bob Ulrich
Don’t screw it up.” That was the mantra among the Continental dealers who loved the ExtremeContact DWS. And engineers at Continental listened.
Afer three years in development, the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 will launch in May. Te ultra-high performance all-season tire looks the same as its predecessor. Tat is about the only similarity
between the two tires.
Te original DWS, which stands for Dry, Wet and Snow, was introduced six years ago. It was known for its balanced, all-season performance; Continental dealers were particularly pleased with its snow traction.
In addition, it featured “Tuned Performance Indicators” — the leters D, W and S — built into the tread. When the “S” wore down, for example, the tire was no longer optimized for snow performance. When all three indicators disappeared, the tire had reached the end of its legal tread depth and needed to be replaced.
However, dealers also saw the need for longer
Construction highlights of the DWS 06 include 1) a high strength, twoply sidewall; 2) a Sport Sidewall Insert for responsive handling; and 3) a spiral would cap ply for a smooth ride and a W or Y speed rating. The tire also has “Tuned Performance” and visual alignment indicators.
tread wear and a stronger sidewall. Continental successfully addressed those issues in designing the DWS 06 , and improved wet, dry and snow traction as well. DWS 06 vs. DWS
Bob Liu, performance tires product manager for Continental Tire the Americas LLC, says the DWS 06 is “an evolutionary product.” It is comparatively much beter than the DWS in wet traction, and superior in dry and snow traction thanks to Traction Grooves and X-Sipes. How Continental defnes “comfort” also was improved.
But the most signifcant improvement is in tread wear. Te
50,000-mile limited tread wear warranty was achieved with the
help of its new SportPlus Technology. For staggered ftments, the rear tire warranty is 25,000 miles because the tires can’t
be rotated front from front to rear and vice-versa.
“In the North American Market, everyone cares about tread life,” says Liu. Te 50,000-mile warranty matches the Goodyear Eagle Sport All Season, Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus and Yokohama Advan Sport A/S warranties in the UHP all-season segment. In addition, Continental is backing the DWS 06 with a three-year roadside assistance program; a 12-month or frst 2/32nds-inch road-hazard warranty; and a 72-month manufacturer’s limited warranty.
Te sidewall also was enhanced. Te new two-ply sidewall has 35% greater impact resistance.
Te rolling resistance of the DWS 06 also remains the same.
Tom Schadl (foreground) of K&M Tire Inc. in Delphos, Ohio, and Mario Crociata of Whitey’s Tire Service in Brooklyn, N.Y., recently tested the new DWS 06 on a 2015 Ford Escape at Continental’s Uvalde, Texas, test track.
Liu says improving rolling resistance was not as much of a focus as the other performance characteristics.
Beginning in May, the new ExtremeContact DWS 06 will replace the DWS. It will be priced less than the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3 and Bridgestone Potenza RE970AS Pole Position, according to Continental.
By September, all 87 of the tire’s W- and Y-rated sizes will be available, including 13 new sizes. Tey will range from 205/55ZR16 91W to 295/25ZR22 97Y. Te frst 52 sizes, which will cover more than 80% of the segment’s volume, will be introduced in May. ■
BFG tour challenges dealers to test the new g-Force tire
By Ann Neal Te g-Force Comp-2 is being manufactured in Michelin’s
The new BFGoodrich brand g-Force Comp-2 A/S expensive and more proftable than the current Super Sport comes in more sizes, is more durable and has more ofering. Improvements in manufacturing processes enable the all-weather capabilities than its predecessor. Michelin company to ofer the tire to dealers at a lower price. “Tere’s North America Inc. says 50% of the volume of the new ultragreater proftability from a lower price perspective versus the high performance Z-rated tire will come from new sizes. current product that’s on the market. But also because of the
Te tire was released in 33 sizes covering two-thirds of the technological advancements and the new sizes, we think we market on April 1. Fify-nine sizes will be available by the end can demand a slightly higher retail price, therefore creating of the frst quarter of 2016 covering 89% of the market. Rim more proft opportunity for dealers,” says Wilson. sizes range from 16 to 22 inches. Te g-Force Comp-2 A/S “Tis will be our best ultra-high performance all-season is available in the U.S. and Canada. tire ever. It will give you the best wet and dry traction and
Michelin is adding 31 new sizes to the Z category. “Te launch braking versus leading competitors. You will also have beter of the g-Force Comp-2 A/S brings us back to an approach we snow traction than leading competitors,” he says. once owned, releasing revolutionary product with forwardTe new tire’s proprietary UltiGrip, g-Force Tread and thinking new sizes,” says Marcus Wilson, ultra-high performance marketing manager for the BFGoodrich brand. “We spend a lot of time shoulder-to-shoulder with enthusiasts at grassroots events and get tremendous insight in what performance seekers demand. Our intent with the g-Force Comp-2 A/S and all our UHP ofers is to be in with, and in many cases out in front of, the cuting edge sizes being introduced at OE.”
Te company plans to discontinue g-Force Super Sport A/S in Z-rated sizes and replace them with the new Comp-2 tire. Te remaining H- and V- rated sizes within the Super Sport A/S will continue until 2016 and be replaced Marcus Wilson, marketing with the next-generation Advantage T/A. manager, says the tread
Te Comp-2 tire will ft a range of vehicles, design of the g-Force Compincluding American muscle, European and 2 A/S gives the appearance of a shorter sidewall height The consistent tread block rigidity of the new g-Force Comp-2 A/S tire resists irregular Asian luxury, as well as tuner car options that resonates with the wear typically associated with directional and plus ftments . It has a 45,000-mile tread brand’s core consumers. tread design, according to the company. wear warranty compared to the 35,000-mile Tuscaloosa, Ala., tire plant. Wilson says the new tire will be less warranty of the g-Force Super Sport A/S. Performance Racing Core technologies will change consumer
Te brand’s core consumers are “performance seekers,” perceptions of the all-season tire, according to Paul Gerrard, according to Wilson. “Traction, toughness and handling are the a lead driving instructor at the tire’s launch event on March 4. three key areas for performance for this consumer. We knew Gerrard says the “jack-of-all-trades” reputation of all-season we had to at least meet their needs in those three categories tires is going away. “When that reputation was earned, the and if at all possible exceed them. We feel confdent we’ve tires were a lot less capable than today. So you have to reset been able to deliver that.” every few years. You still want a winter tire in full winter
Wilson says the Comp-2 tire will give drivers the ability conditions and a summer tire on the race track, but the gap to accelerate faster, brake shorter and maintain control in is narrowing with a state-of-the-art all-season tire like g-Force all seasons. “It’s not just an ultra-high performance tire for Comp-2 A/S. Tat statement is not necessarily true for every performance seekers, it’s an ultra-high performance tire for all-season tire but it is true for the g-Force Comp-2. You have everyone.” to change consumer perception of what these tires can do.”
Te tire’s key Tier 2 competitors for performance and price Te company will demonstrate the g-Force Comp-2 A/S are the Yokohama Avid Envigor, General G-Max A/S 03, to dealers in 20 locations across the U.S. between April and and Hankook Ventus S1 Noble2. Te average manufacturer August. Te frst stop on the “Are You Driver Enough?” tour is suggested retail price of the g-Force Comp-2 A/S is $162. scheduled for April 22-24 in the Los Angeles, Calif., market. ■
2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain
SUBJECT VEHICLE: 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain. RELEARN PROCEDURE? Yes. The TPMS sensor relearn procedure must be performed afer every tire rotation, body control module replacement, or sensor replacement. SPECIAL TOOLS NEEDED? Yes. TPMS special tool (EL-46079 or EL-50448).
The tire pressure monitor system (TPMS) of the 2010 – 2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain uses the instrument panel cluster (IPC), body control module (BCM), four radio frequency transmiting pressure sensors, and the serial data circuit to perform the TPMS relearn mode functions. Once the relearn mode has been enabled, each of the sensors’ unique identifcation codes can be learned into the BCM memory. When a sensor ID has been learned, the BCM sounds a horn chirp indicating the sensor has transmited its ID and the BCM has received and learned it. Te BCM must learn the sensor IDs in the proper sequence to determine correct sensor location. Te frst learned ID is assigned to the lef front location, the second to right front, the third to right rear and the fourth to lef rear. Te turn signals will individually illuminate indicating which location is to be learned in the proper sequence.
When the TPMS detects a signifcant loss or gain of tire pressure, the tire pressure monitor indicator icon is illuminated on the instrument cluster and if equipped, a check tire pressure type message is displayed on the driver information center (DIC). Both the indicator icon and driver information center message can be cleared by adjusting the tire pressures to the recommended pressures and driving the vehicle above 25 mph (40 km/h) for at least two minutes.
Sensor activation methods
TPMS special tool (EL-46079 or EL-50448): Each sensor has an internal low frequency coil. When the TPMS tool is used in activate mode, it produces a low frequency transmission that activates the sensor. Te sensor responds to a low frequency activation by transmiting in learn mode. When the BCM receives a learn mode transmission while in TPMS learn mode, it will assign that sensor’s ID to the location on the vehicle relative to the order in which it was learned.
Pressure change
Each sensor takes a pressure measurement sample once every 30 seconds while in stationary mode. If the tire pressure increases or decreases by more than 8.3 kPa (1.2 psi) from the last pressure measurement, another measurement will occur immediately to verify the change in pressure. If a pressure change has indeed occurred, the sensor transmits in learn mode. When the BCM receives a learn mode transmission while in TPMS learn mode, it will assign that sensor’s ID to the location on the vehicle relative to the order in which it was learned.
Te relearn mode will cancel if the ignition is cycled to OFF or if more than two minutes has elapsed for any sensor that has not been learned. If the relearn mode is canceled before the frst sensor is learned, the original sensor IDs will be maintained. If the relearn mode is canceled afer the frst sensor is learned, the following will occur:
• All stored sensor IDs will be invalidated in the BCM memory. • If equipped, the DIC will display dashes instead of tire pressures. • DTC C0775 will be set.
Tire pressure monitor warning indicators
As stated before, the TPMS warns the driver when a signifcant loss or gain of tire pressure occurs in any of the four tires and
allows the driver to display the individual tire pressures and their locations on the DIC.
NOTE: If power is disconnected from the BCM or if the vehicle batery is disconnected, each tire pressure monitor sensor ID is retained but all of the tire pressure information is lost. Te DIC will display all dashes and the scan tool will indicate a default tire pressure value of 1,020 kPa (148 psi) for each tire. Driving the vehicle above 25 mph (40 km/h) for at least two minutes will activate the sensors causing the DIC to display the current tire pressures.
Te BCM has the ability to detect malfunctions within the TPMS. In the event a DTC is set, the tire pressure monitor indicator icon on the instrument cluster will fash for one minute and then remain illuminated afer the ignition is turned ON and the instrument cluster bulb check has been completed. Any malfunction detected will cause the driver information center to display a service tire monitor system type message.
DIC: Press MENU on the turn signal lever until Vehicle Information Menu is displayed. Use to scroll through the following menu items:
• Unit • Tire pressure • Remaining oil life
Te display will show the approximate pressures of all four tires. Tire pressure is displayed in either kilopascal (kPa) or pounds per square inch (psi).
Reset procedures
NOTE: The TPMS sensor relearn procedure must be performed afer every tire rotation, BCM replacement, or sensor replacement.
NOTE: When the tire pressure monitor system detects a signifcant loss or gain of tire pressure, the tire pressure monitor indicator icon is illuminated on the instrument cluster and if equipped, a check tire pressure type message is displayed on the driver information center.
Tire pressure sensor relearn
NOTE: If using the TPMS tool to activate the sensors, any stray sensor signals will not afect the relearn procedure. In the event a particular sensor’s information is displayed on the special tool upon activation but the horn does not chirp, it may be necessary to rotate the wheel valve stem to a diferent position due to the sensor signal is being blocked by another component.
activation method, ensure that no other learn procedure is being performed simultaneously or that tire pressures are not being adjusted on another TPMS-equipped vehicle within close proximity. Stray signals from other TPMS-equipped vehicles just driving by can be inadvertently learned.
If any random horn chirps are heard from the vehicle while performing the learn procedure, most likely a stray sensor has been learned and the procedure will need to be canceled and repeated.
Under these circumstances, performing the TPMS relearn procedure away from other vehicles would be highly recommended. In the event that a particular sensor activation does not cause the horn to chirp, it may be Figure 1: Identifying the driver information center (DIC) buttons. necessary to rotate the wheel valve stem to a diferent position due to the sensor signal is being blocked special tool indicates that the sensor activation signal is by another component. being transmited. Wait for a horn chirp. If the horn does 1) Turn the ignition switch to the ACC position. tool. Once the horn chirp has sounded, the sensor informa2) Activate the relearn mode using a scan tool or DIC butons tion is learned and the turn signal in the next location to (refer to the owner’s manual). A double horn chirp sounds be learned will illuminate. indicating the relearn mode has been enabled and the lef front turn signal will also be illuminated. 4) Afer the horn chirp has sounded and the right front turn 3) Starting with the lef front tire, activate the tire pressure signal is illuminated, repeat the procedure for the next three sensor using one of the following methods: sensors in the following order: right front, right rear, lef rear. • Increase/decrease the tire pressure for eight to 10 seconds chirp will sound, indicating all four sensor IDs have been then wait for a horn chirp. Te horn chirp may occur before learned. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. Adjust or up to 30 seconds afer the eight to 10 second pressure all tire pressures to specifcation. increase/decrease time period has been reached. Once the not chirp, repeat the sensor activation sequence with the 5) Afer the lef rear sensor has been learned, a double horn horn chirp has sounded, the sensor information is learned Demounting/mounting procedures and the turn signal in the next location to be learned will CAUTION: Te tire should be demounted from the wheel illuminate. using the tire changer manufacturer’s instructions. Use the fol•Hold the antenna of the TPMS special tool (EL-46079 or lowing information to avoid damage during the demounting/
EL-50448) aimed upward against the tire sidewall close mounting procedures. to the rim at the valve stem location. Press and release the NOTE: If the vehicle’s tires are replaced with those not activate buton. Ensure that the transmit indicator on the having a TPC spec number, the TPMS may give an inaccurate low pressure warning. Non-TPC spec tires may give a low pressure warning that is higher or lower than the proper warning level achieved by TPC spec numbered tires. NOTE: If a tire pressure sensor or the RCDLR is replaced, or if the wheels have been rotated, the tire pressure sensor must be retrained. See reset procedures.
Art courtesy of General Motors Corp.
Tire pressure sensor
CAUTION: Do not inject any tire liquid or aerosol tire sealant into the tires, as this may cause a malfunction of the tire pressure sensors. If
any tire sealant is noted upon tire demounting, replace the sensor. Also remove all residual liquid sealant from the inside of the tire and wheel surfaces.
Removal
1) Raise the vehicle on a suitable support. Remove the tire/wheel assembly from the vehicle. 2) Demount the tire from the wheel following the tire changer manufacturer’s instructions while paying special atention to the following to avoid damaging the tire pressure sensor: Place the sensor’s cap and valve on a dry, clean surface afer removal. Te cap is aluminum and the valve is nickel-plated to prevent corrosion. Do not substitute a cap or valve made of any other material. grommet sealing areas. Install the grom
Torque specifcations
Component
Wheel nut
Tire pressure sensor nut
• Position the bead breaking Figure 2: Tire pressure sensor installation. fxture 90 degrees from valve with the air passage facing away from stem when separating the tire bead from the wheel. the wheel. 3) Install the sensor nut, and position • Position the mounting/demounting the sensor body parallel to the inside head so the tire iron can be inserted wheel surface while tightening the nut slightly clockwise of the sensor body to 62 in.-lbs. (7 N.m). when prying the tire bead up and over 4) Before installing the tire on the wheel, the mounting/demounting head. note the following items to avoid tire pres• Using the tire machine, rotate tire/wheel sure sensor damage upon tire mounting: assembly clockwise when transferring the • Position the mounting/demounting tire bead to the outside of the wheel rim. head 180 degrees from the valve stem. • Repeat items for the inner bead. Position the bead transition area 45 degrees counterclockwise of valve stem. 3) Remove the tire pressure sensor nut. • Using the tire machine, rotate the (see Figure 2). tire/wheel assembly clockwise when 4) Remove the sensor from the wheel transferring the tire bead to the inside hole. of the wheel rim. 5) Remove the sensor grommet from • Repeat the items for the outer bead. the valve stem. 5) Install the tire on the wheel. Install
Installation Retrain the tire pressure sensor. See reset 1) Clean any dirt or debris from the procedures met on the sensor valve stem. NOTE: A service replacement tire 2) Insert the sensor in the wheel hole pressure sensor is shipped in OFF mode.
the tire/wheel assembly on the vehicle. Ft.-lbs. (N.m) 100 (140) In.-lbs.(N.m) 62 (7)
Art courtesy of General Motors Corp. In this mode, the sensor’s unique identifcation code cannot be learned into the RCDLR’s memory.
Te sensor must be taken out of OFF mode by spinning the tire/wheel assembly above 25 mph (40 km/h) for at least 10 seconds in order to close the sensor’s internal roll switch. ■
Information for this column comes fom Mitchell 1’s “Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Guide” for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in Poway, Calif., Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry for more than 80 years.
For more information, visit website www.mitchell1.com. For archived TPMS articles, visit Modern Tire Dealer’s website at www.moderntiredealer.com.
Wireless OBD-II module for TPMS
OTC, a Bosch Automotive Service Solutions brand, has introduced an all-in-one tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) tool with wireless OBD-II dongle, activation and relearn capabilities. The company says it is the industry’s frst wireless OBD-II module for TPMS sensor registration. The device has key fob signal test and infrared print capabilities and includes three years of software updates. The stand-alone, nextgeneration TPMS tool will save automotive repair shops valuable time by combining steps and offering near-universal vehicle coverage for most OEMs. The 3838 also allows for cloning of universal sensors. BOSCH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE SOLUTIONS Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14170 www.mtdquiklink.com/14170
Yokohama expands Geolandar line
Yokohama Tire Corp. (YTC) has added a crossover all-season tire with a 65,000-mile tread wear warranty to its Geolandar line. The Geolander G055 is initially available in 19 sizes from 16 to 20 inches in H – and V-speed ratings in the U.S. and Canada. The company says the Geolandar G055 features all-season performance and extended tread life due to Yokohama’s advanced orange oil technology. The tire offers superior traction in wet and wintry conditions and confdent wet handling. In addition, road noise is minimized by an integrated shoulder and full nylon cover that improves stability while resisting irregular wear. YOKOHAMA TIRE CORP. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14171 www.mtdquiklink.com/14171
Tire cage for small, non-highway tires
Ken-Tool Corp. has added its latest, and smallest, tire cage to its line of tire infation restraining devices, with the introduction of the 36000-T107 Utility Tire Infation Cage. It is designed for tires for turf care equipment, golf carts, all-terrain vehicles and personal mobility scooters which are too small to be safely placed in a large passenger or truck tire cage. The company says it is designed solely for non-highway use tires carrying the letters NHS (NonHighway Service) on the tire’s sidewall and is not to be used on highway tires, nor NHS industrial tires or multi-piece wheels. KEN-TOOL CORP. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14172 www.mtdquiklink.com/14172
Shop pants from Red Kap
Red Kap says there are pants and there are “made-to-work-on vehicles” pants. Pants that have more pockets because when you’re fat on your back busting a tire, you need easy access to your tools. These pants have scratch-free buttons, so you don’t have to worry about scratching a paint job. Comfort is no stranger to the technician, tech or gearhead thanks to features like Red Kap’s stretch waistband, double knees, and inseam gusset. There’s only one pair of pants that’s garage-born and made specifcally for the auto industry, says the company: The Performance Shop Pant only from Red Kap. RED KAP Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14173 www.mtdquiklink.com/14173
New premium brand of calipers
Cardone Industries Inc. has introduced Cardone Ultra Premium Calipers, a brand of premium remanufactured calipers that features an exclusive, silver coating to protect against rust and corrosion. The new calipers come equipped with all the necessary installation hardware, including a new banjo bolt and mounting bracket on all applicable applications, according to Cardone. The company says its new brand of premium remanufactured calipers complements all wheel types. CARDONE INDUSTRIES INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14174 www.mtdquiklink.com/14174
Two-post lift services a range of vehicles
Forward Lift, a brand of lifts from Vehicle Service Group LLC, says its 10,000-pound capacity two-post I10 lift comes with three-stage front arms which are designed to properly lift a wide range of vehicles. Most two-post lifts are either symmetric or asymmetric, forcing a shop owner to choose one over the other. However, the I10 Lift’s Spot-Rite three-stage front arms enable the lift to hold heavier and lighter vehicles. The lift has 10,000 pounds of capacity, which is enough to pick up vehicles up to and including Class 2 pickup trucks. FORWARD LIFT Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14175 www.mtdquiklink.com/14175
Lightweight tripod jack stand
Rotary Lift, a Dover Corp. brand, has introduced a lightweight jack stand designed to stabilize vehicles loaded on two-post surface and in-ground lifts. The new RS4 supplementary tripod jack stand has 4,000 pounds of capacity and can be raised to a maximum height of seven feet. Two new RS4 jack stands can support a vehicle weighing up to 8,000 pounds. The RS4 stands are easy to set up and can be carried from bay to bay. ROTARY LIFT Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14176 www.mtdquiklink.com/14176
Creeper has adjustable headrest
Integrated Supply Network Inc. has introduced a Monster brand 40-inch creeper with a three-position adjustable headrest (part no. MST13018). The new creeper is available as of April 1, 2015. The company says the creeper is designed with a heavy-duty vinyl cover and padded cushion for added comfort. It has drop shoulder grooves and six industrial swivel casters for easy maneuvering. The creeper is made of rugged steel construction with a heavy duty powder coat for that smooth finish. Maximum capacity is 300 pounds. The creeper is also available with a fxed headrest (part no. MST13019). INTEGRATED SUPPLY NETWORK INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14177 www.mtdquiklink.com/14177
Two new Kelly Edge tires
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has introduced the Kelly Edge A/S (pictured) and Kelly Edge AT to cover the performance touring, passenger, CUV, SUV and all-terrain tire segments. The company says the products will help usher in a new generation of consumer tires for the Kelly brand. The Kelly Edge power line of products is intended to offer great performance with broad size coverage in a single line that helps reduce retailer inventory, and also provides marketing support to drive tire buyer preference in the economy tier. The line has 85 unique sizes to cover 89% of the economy tier market. GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER CO. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14178 www.mtdquiklink.com/14178
MultiPro TPMS sensor
31 Inc.’s X-tra Seal MultiPro Multi-Application TPMS sensor (part number 17-45007) covers many Audi, Mercedes, Volkswagen and Volvo applications. 31 Inc. says its MultiPro series of multi-application TPMS sensors are pre-programmed and ready to use out of the box. Simply install the MultiPro sensor in the tire/wheel, and relearn, if necessary. Unlike other pre-programmed sensors, the MultiPro offers both snap-in and clamp-in valve options (the valves are interchangeable). 31 INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14179 www.mtdquiklink.com/14179
Vero Series V200 balancer
Hennessy Industries Inc.’s Coats Vero Series V200 wheel balancer reduces balance-related comebacks with Coats’ exclusive Direct Drive technology and innovative ProBalance Technology. The V200’s Direct Drive technology holds a 10-year warranty. ProBalance Technology is a unique balancing algorithm and unbalance correction methodology that minimizes both static and couple unbalance. The industrial-grade touchscreen interface standardizes wheel balancing into a step-by-step process and boasts an intuitive “No Touch” interface. This helps technicians perform 85% of wheel balances without ever touching the screen. HENNESSY INDUSTRIES INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14180 www.mtdquiklink.com/14180
Milanni luxury line expands
Vision Wheel Inc. has expanded its Milanni wheel line for sport and luxury vehicles. The additions include Sultan 9042 (pictured) in chrome and matte black with anthracite spoke ends. Designed for luxury SUVs the 7-spoke style is available in sizes 22x9.5 and 24x9.5. Other additions are Virtue (9022) and Tycoon (9052). The new wheels feature brilliant painted fnishes with mirror machined face or milled spokes as well as new Phantom Chrome, according to the company. The cast aluminum wheels are available in vehicle-complementing sizes with aggressive ftments to complete the look of any ride. VISION WHEEL INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 14181 www.mtdquiklink.com/14181
Bruce Halle’s
lifelong focus on I NTEGRITY distinguishes him as our Tire Dealer of the Year
September 2014 | Vol. 95, No. 9 | $10 | A Bobit Publication | www.moderntiredealer.com Join these distinguished past winners
2014: Bruce Halle, Discount Tire, Scottsdale, Ariz. 2013: Dan & Diane Hennelly, The Tire Choice, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. 2012: Bob Sullivan, Sullivan Tire Co., Inc., Norwell, Mass. 2011: Nick Mitsos, Mountain View Tire & Service Inc., Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. 2010: John Snider, Snider Tire Inc., Greensboro, N.C. 2009: Bill Ziegler, Ziegler Tire & Supply Co., Massillon, Ohio 2008: Ken Towery, Ken Towery’s AutoCare SuperCenter, Louisville, Ky. 2007: Charlie Creighton, Colony Tire Corp., Edenton, N.C. 2006: Bill Williams, Jack Williams Tire Co., Moosic, Pa. 2005: Paul Zurcher, Zurcher Tire Inc., Monroe, Ind. 2004: Bob and Juanita Purcell, Purcell Tire & Rubber Co., Potosi, Mo. 2003: John Marshall, Grismer Tire Co. Inc., Dayton, Ohio 2002: Tom Raben, Raben Tire Co., Evansville, Ind. 2001: Larry Morgan, Morgan Tire & Auto Inc., Clearwater, Fla. 2000: Les Schwab, Les Schwab Tire Centers, Prineville, Ore. 1999: Raynal Pearson, Pearson Tire Co., Richfeld, Utah 1998: Tom Gegax, Team Tires Plus Ltd., Minneapolis, Minn. 1997: Walt Dealtrey Sr., Service Tire Truck Centers, Bethlehem, Pa. 1996: David Stringer, Stringer Tire Co., Jacksonville, Fla. 1995: Tony Troilo, Rosson & Troilo Motor Co., Brandy Station, Va. 1994: Jerry Bauer, Bauer Built Inc., Durand, Wis. 1993: Barry Steinberg, Direct Tire & Auto Service, Watertown, Mass.1
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Advertiser Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Inc. American Omni Trading Company Arnott Inc. Bartec USA BKT Tires USA Inc. Bridgestone Tire Continental Tire, Commercial Vehicle Tires Double Coin Tires Federal-Mogul Motorparts Federated Auto Parts Gaither Tool Company Inc. General Tire Hankook Tire America Corporation Horizon Tire Inc. Kenda USA Kumho Tire USA Inc. Mahle North America Marangoni Tread North America Inc. Maxxis International—USA Nexen Tire America Inc. Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc. North American Tire & Retread Expo Pirelli Tire North America Plombco Inc. Red Kap Robert Bosch LLC Sentury Tire Americas STEELMAN Select TPMS, by JS Products TBC Brands Tub O’ Towels Yokohama Tire Corporation ZC Rubber America Inc. Page 49 24 22 57 11 9 40 41 15 47 56 17 34-35 7
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Dealers respond to Goodyear selling tires to consumers on its website
Each month we ask members of our National Advisory Council (NAC) a question or questions on a current hot topic. Tis month we asked, “What do you think about Goodyear selling its tires directly to consumers via its website? Will you participate in Goodyear’s program as an installer for tires it sells on the Web? Do you feel it will help or hurt your business? And do you think other tire manufacturers will do the same in the near future?” Here are some of their responses. 1. I think this is total B.S. Now we have to compete against our supplier. We have joined the network with a wait-and-see atitude. We feel this is going to hurt our business because the leads we used to get from the Goodyear website are going to go to Goodyear frst.
Te compensation for the tire installation will be just like a national account. Tis is less than if we installed the tires ourselves, and furthermore we will not receive co-op which helps us ofset the cost of Goodyear’s program! I hope the other tire manufacturers don’t follow suit! 2. While I’m not a proponent, it just confrms that every industry is becoming exponentially more competitive. I do believe some other manufacturers will sell directly, afer the dust settles with Goodyear. Overall, I do not believe the impact will be that signifcant in the short term, however, the long-term impact could be diferent. 4. Te total volume of tires purchased online will continue to increase with or without us; especially as more “Millennials” enter the market. Yes, the program may bring us more new customers and should provide ample opportunities for upselling and additional service sales. Conversely, proft margins on tire sales continue to erode. Surrendering premium product sales to our supplier is not something we like! It’s a shell game with us coming out again on the losing end as far as the tires sales. We would concede that true new customers provide new opportunities — an unknown, but an unknown with potential we will have to maximize.
Independent dealers like us cannot aford to surrender another large share of the tire replacement market. It remains to be seen if other manufacturers will follow suit — I would imagine they are all waiting to see if Goodyear will be successful. 5. Goodyear selling direct to the consumer can create a problem depending on where they set the retail price. You cannot be everything to everybody. 3. We will not participate, but we are not an authorized Goodyear dealer. I think this is a terrible path to go down, but the manufacturers are basically all greedy and really do not care who they step on to get increases.
7. Now Goodyear is going to sell tires direct to the consumer, isn’t that in essence price fxing? Because how as a dealer do you sell for more than what Goodyear sells the tires for online? Tat makes the dealer look like a schmuck. Tire dealers are the ones who have made these tire manufacturers what they are today by using our experience to present the best tires for the customers’ needs. I do believe other manufacturers will follow suit. Now manufacturers have eroded the proftability for dealers even more by selling direct to the consumer — and now your supplier is your competition. Will we mount their tires? Probably, because we always try to make the customer ours and it will prety much be like a national account — just receiving a commission. But I think they are going down the wrong path because it erodes the loyalty the dealers have had with Goodyear.
What’s on your mind?
NAC members shared other topics on their minds this month:
Why don’t Walmart, big box stores and other places that sell just tires have to comply with the same consumer protection (Bureau of Automotive Repair) laws that a full service shop has to that sells tires and service? Tom Huls, Franchisee Tokah Inc., dba Big O Tires #5779 Yucca Valley, Calif.
Te tire manufacturers’ prices have stayed the same. Why haven’t we seen a price drop with the cost of oil dropping? Te tire companies raised their prices when oil prices went up. Tey told us it took a signifcant amount of oil to produce a tire, and that’s why tire prices went up. Where is the relief when prices go down! Jerry Reygaert, Owner Reys Auto & Tire Shelby Township, Mich.
Join Modern Tire Dealer’s National Advisory Council Each month, Modern Tire Dealer is guided and infuenced by a select group of readers — members of our National Advisory Council. Tese members’ opinions are the heart of the monthly Your Marketplace column, compiled by industry analyst Nick Mitchell. If you’d like to join this prestigious group, please let us know. We’d love to hear from you. Contact Editor Bob Ulrich at Bob.Ulrich@bobit.com or call (330) 899-2200, ext. 11.
