Automotive Solutions' Vehicle Inspection System features the ability to add up to 10 photos to the inspection report and customizable questions on the inspection report. As of Sept. 1, 2010, when the new CARB compliance was scheduled to take effect in California, ASI's Tire Inspection software addressed all of the requirements set forth in the regulations. This includes the recording of the tire pressure readings and being able to store the information electronically. This is inclusive of all of ASI Vehicle Inspection Products.
The review
Lou Fort, lead tech at K.A.R.S. in Huntingburg, Ind., and a 26-year ASE-certified Master Tech w/ L1, tested the ASI Vehicle Inspection System and found "lots of potential."
"If your company doesn’t have a standardized inspection protocol in place, then ASI’s package would be worth a look," Lou said. "It definitely has the potential to boost your bottom line."
There were a few hitches when he first received the tool. "I had some trouble getting it set up. ... A few quick emails and a short phone call while at the PC is all it took to get me off and running. Once I was going it felt simple enough to use effectively," Lou said.
From there, he found plenty to like about the program, starting with implementing a standardized procedure for inspections.
"Knowing that every level of inspection is going to be done the same no matter who is doing it" is key, Lou said. "A quick example: Tech A has started a full VI but 15 minutes in has to leave. I could have anyone else pick up right where Tech A stopped without a word as to where he was in the inspection." Unlike using a paper-based checklist, Lou said the "PDA-based system makes it so you can be sure" everything is done right. This also makes the system more "green" in saving paper, ink and time, he said.
"The ability to send the inspection result out to the customer via email is close to being priceless," Lou said. He liked the ability to take photos during the inspection to share as well, and is looking forward to the coming video update.
"Will it have sound?" Lou wondered. That way you can share with the customer things like: " 'Can you hear that ‘snap-crackle-pop?' 'That’s your U-Joint!' "
"The Vehicle Inspection System looks like an excellent option for anyone, a bit more so for chain-store owners ... but a good independent can profit from this system," Lou said.
