Ride-and-Drive Experience at Monroe Open House Draws More Than 450 Participants

Motor, May 2008

More than 450 repair shop owners, service writers and technicians participated in the Monroe Ride-and-Drive technical training experience during the annual XL Parts Open House in Houston early last month. The hands-on training experience is part of the Tenneco Technology Tour.

The event enables automotive professionals to compare the steering, stopping and stability characteristics of late-model vehicles equipped with worn original equipment ride control units with identical vehicles fitted with new Monroe replacement shocks and struts. The program is expected to train more than 7000 repair professionals in about 40 major North American markets this year.

In addition to hosting the Ride-and-Drive event, the open house featured exhibits from dozens of other aftermarket manufacturers. There also were ASE Master-certified instructors on-site who helped participants learn how to communicate the importance of ride control inspections and replacements.

"The Monroe Ride-and-Drive was a phenomenal experience for our guests," said Robert Roos, XL Parts Director of Marketing. "The folks at Tenneco set up an elaborate driving course covering half our parking lot. Our customers found it entertaining and educational; there was always a long line of people who wanted to take advantage of it."