The TreadReader Hand Held scanner from Sigmavision is a compact and lightweight device. It is quick and easy to use and eliminates the errors associated with manual depth gauges. The scanner is positioned on one edge of a tyre and operated by sliding it across the tread face.

Garages can benefit from a new economically profitable wheel alignment solution with the entry-level Hunter PA200.

When it comes to replacing brake parts in cars with electronic parking brakes (EPB), the procedure is completely different to cars fitted with a regular handbrake.

As the original innovators of the integrated workshop system, Dura has a proud global reputation for delivering flexible and design-led workshop furniture solutions, tailored to meet the ever-changing needs of the automotive industry.

Draper Tools has added three new Locking Wheel Nut removal sets to its range of automotive tools and accessories.

CTEK has launched the PRO60, an innovative, versatile and highly efficient 60A battery charger and power supply, designed around the needs of the modern workshop.

BTN Turbo have added 5 brand new Mitsubishi turbochargers which cover the BMW M3/M4 3.0LP 425HP (2014 on), Saab 9-3 2.0T 2.0LP 175HP (2002-2010), Saab/Vauxhall Various 2.8LP (2009-2014), Porsche Panamera Turbo 970 3.0LP 410HP (2013 on) (left hand and right hand model variants).

Blue Diamond Technologies, the Hampshire-based engineering firm specialising in the design and manufacture of bespoke mechanical parts for the automotive aftermarket is now widening this service to include custom fasteners with complex or unusual geometries in low batch quantities - typically 500 upwards.

K&N Filters have released a new OE-replacement High-Flow air filter for the latest BMW 3-Series and 4-Series models with a 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre petrol engine.

Ignition specialist NGK has reduced the price of many of its popular part numbers and offering extra points until the end of November for garages purchasing from its range of glow plugs.

Linked to the car's ECU, the ignition coil controls the sequence and current to the spark plugs, and is vital to the running of your engine.

The TDB003 Proximity/Smart Key Systems Tester offers a simple and cost effective way to diagnose and test problems relating to the vehicle immobiliser system, which is made up of a number of components. It enables the transponder key, remote control operation, external vehicle antenna transmitters, internal vehicle antenna transmitters and transponder antenna to be fully tested to ensure that all parts of the system are working.

Federal-Mogul Motorparts has launched its new Champion EON-Titan spark plug range, providing coverage of 90% of the car parc, with only 18 product references.

MAHLE has introduced more light commercial vehicle and heavy duty components into the company's filtration range, including parts for DAF, Euro and Scania applications.

With the company establishing itself under the ECOBAT brand, the successful battery finder website launched by Manbat will continue to run, giving technicians additional information they need when selecting the right battery for a vehicle, including fitting instructions and product related data.

Sogefi has been selected by Audi to supply the oil filter for its new 4.0l V8 TDI engine which will power this year's Q7 and future models, such as the Audi A8 and Porsche Panamera.

The portable battery tester BAT 131 from Bosch is perfectly suitable for testing 6V and 12V starter batteries (lead-acid, gel and AGM batteries). The cold cranking current can be set as required between 100 and 2000A. The load free test procedure provides fast, precise and reliable measurement results. The battery tester has a robust housing specially designed for workshop requirements. The enhanced user interface enables simple and intuitive operation.

Vehicle emissions are regulated by the Euro standards and the latest Euro 6 is the toughest yet. Not only do manufacturers have to submit to them, but so too do aftermarket suppliers.

As summer rolls on, air conditioning systems on many vehicles will inevitably require a recharge. HELLA GUTMANN SOLUTIONS offers its range of 'Husky' mobile AC service stations for both R134a and R1234yf refrigerants providing a solution for all conventional, hybrid and electric vehicles.

Tyres can offer a garage a quick profit as long as you have the right equipment available and therefore have no need to outsource.

Disc coating allows for improved performance and increased protection from the elements. Borg & Beck has added other features to its specialist BECKTEC coating as standard, a move it sees as a benefit to technicians.

The ability to make profit does not just rest with the larger work, sometimes a garage needs to invest in other areas of tooling to ensure that smaller jobs charged by the hour are coming in through the doors.

Garage equipment needs to be kept in peak condition to ensure you give customers the best service, and that it gives you the best service. This is where the new calibration and service reminder software from Boston comes in.

Brembo has highlighted the areas technicians need to look out for to avoid making mistakes when fitting pads and discs.

Keeping wheels straight seems a very tough thing for today's drivers to do. The number of obsticles and challenges the suspension set-up faces on the road on a day-to-day basis means more garages are considering wheel alignment as a profit-generating option.

Low viscosity oils are in demand and Morris Lubricants is answering the call with two new blends to meet the demands of hi-tech engines launched by Ford and Volvo.

As the Brake Engineering brand continues to re-establish itself thanks to a period of focus (see page 41), the company continues to add to its already sizeable range, with four new brake calipers and four additional brake discs, reflecting its commitment to constantly develop its offering in order to provide a full-line braking solution.

To do a good job, a technician needs a good range of tools - not just diagnostic and electronic but manual as well. Teng Tools is therefore expanding its range of automotive tools within its new 2016 catalogue. With ranges that cover engine servicing, brakes, suspension, bodywork and such like all the most popular items are already included. Add to that an extensive range of pullers, riveting tools and general service tools and the range has become pretty complete for most day-to-day needs. In the coming months, the company plans to add even more to its line-up, with the aim of making the Teng Tools range the most complete to offer to garages in the UK. The catalogue is offered by IQ Supplies, the UK and Ireland distributor of Teng Tools, as well as Metalworks garage and workshop equipment and Luna air tools.

Stubborn components that are difficult to remove due to seized parts can add labour time to a garage's workload. Induction heaters help by loosening the affected nuts, bots or connecting pieces. Pro Align has launched the easi iHeat heavy-duty induction heater, which takes seconds to heat ferrous-based metals of depths up to 6mm, to temperatures of between 400 to 600 degrees Celsius. The flameless solution and finger point accuracy means heat can be highly targeted and can be used in close proximity to cables, pipes and other heat sensitive parts, allowing it to be used with a wide range of workshop applications such as removal or straightening of components or freeing off items. The product is available in five different models allowing workshops to select the most appropriate tool for their needs. For example, the range-topping easi iHeat 15 brings an area of 40 x 40 x 16 mm to a red-hot temperature of around 1,000 degrees, in just three seconds.

Range additions keep a company ahead of the game, Solid Auto can testify to that. The supplier has added 31 fast-moving part numbers to its range of specialist Japanese and Korean automotive products. The additions comprise cabin filters, oil filters, fuel filters, brake discs, clutch kits, and multi-rib belts. In total, 104 references have been brought to market by the company, as it continues to assess and meet ever-changing customer requirements. New oil filters cover a wide range of vehicle applications, including: Nissan Qashqai J11 (2013) and J10 (2011-15); Suzuki Swift (2011-15); and Honda Civic (2012) and their derivatives. The new cabin filter covers popular Japanese model, Nissan Qashqai J11 (2013 on) while the new two-piece clutch kits cover Toyota Auris (2008-13) and Yaris (2009 on), with a concentric slave cylinder available separately. Finally, the new-to-range multi-rib belts cover several vehicle applications including: Kia Picanto (2011), and Nissan Kubistar (2003-10) and Micra (2003-11).

Quality lubrication improves performance and vehicle lifespan. Gulf believe they can offer such quality with the Formula CX 5W30, holding both ACEA C2 and C3 specifications alongside a large number of OEM specifications and approvals. Additional features and benefits of the Formula CX include the latest mid SAPS additive technology which prolongs life of after treatment devices used in the latest passenger cars, low ash content reduced particulate build up in diesel particulate filters designed to deliver outstanding performance and protection in conjunction with fuel economy benefits, active cleansing agents reduced piston deposits and sludge build up facilitating cleaner engines and low temperature property which aids cold start and protects against wear at start up.

The range expansion continues at LuK clutches with parts for nearly 1.7 million vehicles added, including 30 Luk RepSets, nine LuK RepSet Pros, eight Dual Mass Flywheels and one LuK cylinder. These new arrivals include new LuK 2CT double-clutch components for the VW Golf V (1K1) 1.9 TDI and VW Polo (6R, 6C) 1.4 (2011 on) and a LuK RepSet DMF for the VW Golf VI (5K1) 1.6 TDI (2009-2012). There is also a new LuK RepSet and LuK RepSet Pro for the VW Crafter 30-50 (2F) 2.0 TDi (2011 on), and a LuK RepSet for the Nissan Pick Up (D22) 2.4 i 4WD (2002 on). The company has also expanded its range of clutch parts for Japanese and Far Eastern vehicles with its new additions to the RepSet Pro range, including parts for Toyota, Kia, Hyundai and Subaru, with a DMF for the Mazda CX-5 (KE, GH) 2.2 diesel (2012 on). 08457 001100

A new vehicle telematics tool provides independent workshops with their own response to the connected car, giving them remote diagnostic services with their customers. Launch UK has introduced Golo, a real-time monitoring system, along with a collection of promotional and technical support. The system features an OBD box that simply plugs into the vehicle's 16-pin socket, allowing the owner to connect and communicate with workshops regarding problems, repair and maintenance online. The system allows the garage to access real-time vehicle data to perform diagnostic checks remotely and provide examination and maintenance guidance. This can be done either via a smartphone with Bluetooth or WiFi though an app, or through a SIM located in the plug, depending on model sold. The device can connect with the driver anywhere in the country, meaning should a warning light come on, they can call the garage and get a check to tell them whether it is safe to continue, what the problem is and arrange for it to be booked in. With connected car services offering a similar service through some vehicle manufacturers, Golo is the aftermarket ensuring it remains in the game.

Keeping your garage looking neat and tidy does not just equate to putting the tools in the toolbox and mopping the floor, a professional image also applies to the workwear your technicians use on a daily basis. It needs to be hard wearing, comfortable and fit in with the look of your business. Dickies has just introduced a new range of items for technicians, including the ED24/7 two-tone trousers with 245gsm fabric ensuring they are 'tough but light' to retain agility, while being free of any exposed metals such as zips or buttons, making them scratch free. They also feature cargo pockets for carrying tools. The range also includes Redhawk Stud Front coveralls, the company's most affordable workwear with a concealed stud-fronted pocket design to prevent scratches to paintwork. The footwear range includes the Deltona Boot, a safety boot with an SRC sole unit and anti-slip properties. The toe-cap protection is metal free, as is the midsole, keeping weight low, while the uppers use a water-resistant black leather with a breathable lining.

Euro Car Parts is introducing a new range of shock absorbers from sports suspension manufacturer Bilstein. The range B4 Airmatic types for Land Rover and Jaguar, where Bilstein is the original equipment supplier (OES), B4 Damptronic types for Mercedes limo and electronically adjustable for the likes of Nissan GT-R, and B4 Gas types for the VW Golf 7, Vauxhall Mokka and Adam, again where Bilstein is OE fitted. The range offered means technicians can source shock absorbers identical to those fitted at factory level and therefore are recommended for those vehicles, designs to work and last just as the manufacturer intended. They feature full TUV approval and will be available through the Euro Car Parts branch network or on the company's new website.

Sometimes you'll need to jump a vehicle to either get it out of the way or to aid a repair. The E/START800 from Sealey is therefore suited to this application, providing a greater power output over others in the range. The Electrostart is different to other products on the range as it does not contain a battery inside the unit. Instead, in runs with ultracapacitors amongst other patented electronics that maximise a discharged battery's voltage. The E/START800 requires just 5 volts to jump start a vehicle. Simply connect it to the vehicle's discharged battery and the unit will display the battery's existing voltage. It then draws power from it and energises itself fully within two minutes before pushing full power safely back through the starting system, jump starting the vehicle. The advantage of not having an internal battery is that the device is small, lightweight and has a life-cycle of 10 years, while not needing to be kept in a charged state and therefore can be used instantly.

Price can be king in the aftermarket with garages needing to offer a competitive edge to a quote when customers will only listen to cost and not quality. First Line's Key Parts brand is an alternative to the premium First Line and Borg & Beck ranges, while not skimping on the quality of the part.

When it comes to keeping cool, especially as we approach summer, Denso has the right idea. The manufacturer has recently expanded its aftermarket condenser program with the introduction of 32 OE-quality Subcool condensers, which can offer up to 30% greater efficiency over conventional products.

The manual transmission has been around almost as long as the car itself and The Gearbox Centre finds them a fascinating technology. However, while they are usually a reliable mechanism, they do eventually wear out and fail to act as efficiently as they were designed to. While this could be a costly item to replace, the company aims to provide a quick and cost-effective service, focusing on quality rather than price.

Brake Engineering has added eight new brake calipers to its product range as it continues its bid to constantly meet the demands and requirements of its customers.

During diagnostic or programming operations when in a Key On, Engine Off state, a vehicle's systems are operating solely from the battery. This reliance on constant voltage poses a risk in terms of potential loss of data or damage to control units.

Experience can provide garages with the essential tools they need to carry out everyday jobs. HELLA GUTMANN know this, with 30 years of knowledge in the field of vehicle diagnostics filtering down into their mega macs range.

The warranty period serves two purposes, it gives garages and customers peace of mind that should anything go wrong there is a chance they are covered, while also giving companies the opportunity to highlight the trust in their products.

Autodata has launched a new dedicated module to their Online Workshop Tool for changing brakes, saving workshops time and protecting them from the cost of incorrect procedures.

Keeping catalogues up to date allows companies to give its customers the right parts, the right information and most importantly, the right price.

VARTA batteries is highlighting its Dynamic range as a solution for automotive and commercial vehicle requirements.

With the summer upon us it is time to invest in your air conditioning kit. The Sun Koolkare range from Snap-on offers air-con recycling designed for modern workshops that deal with all kinds of differing vehicle systems.

Silicone hoses are more resilient and for most, look good too. The latest upgrade from Forge Motorsport is a race-quality intake hose for Audi's RS3 'hot hatch'. Designed as a direct replacement for the factory part, and featuring precise diameter apertures as per the original, to allow each hose to connect directly to the OEM fittings, the Forge upgrade offers enhancement over the original, with a much greater resistance to heat-cycling and fatigue, making it ideal for tuned, tracked or competition cars.

As the time comes for garages to start work on a potential influx of air conditioning jobs, GSF Car Parts is offering an extended range to make the most of new labour-saving features.

Contamination of the diesel system can lead to a number of problems, the least of which is a blocked DPF. Sometimes a regeneration is not the only thing that needs doing as pipes can also become clogged with soot and other deposits.