Fully understanding the TSB

Technical Service Bulletins – the TSB – is a type of service information an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) releases based on service issues it sees in the field.

Tschanen Brandyberry

March 14, 2019

2 min read

You know you need to look up TSBs when you’re creating your diagnostic game plan, but do you really understand the background of the TSB?

If you aren’t fully sure, you’re not alone. Many technicians know they’re supposed to use the important tool, but might not fully understand why they are issued or how they differ from other information about vehicle repair.

Technical Service Bulletins– the TSB – is a type of service information an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) releases based on service issues it sees in the field. Industry expert Gary Hixson, a senior market manager with Mitchell 1, returns in “Finding and Using the Right TSB” a new video to outline a number items technicians need to know about TSBs.

Starting with four reasons an OEM might release a TSB, Hixon steps through what a TSB is, and isn’t, explaining the differences between TSBs, recalls and campaigns. Each serves its own purposes to help technicians diagnose and repair known issues with the vehicle.

Watch “Finding and Using the Right TSB”and learn more about the history of TSBs, what to look for when you pull on in a diagnostic search and where to find complete TSBs and other information for your repairs.

About the Author

Tschanen Brandyberry

Tschanen Brandyberry is Special Projects Editor for the UBM Americas – Automotive Group, moving into the position following roles as managing editor of Motor Age and associate editor of Aftermarket Business World. She joined the Automotive Group in 2006 after working in editing and writing positions at The Morning Journal in Lorain, Ohio, and The Daily Chief-Union in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, in addition to public relations agency experience. Tschanen is a graduate of the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.