STANDARD VERSUS METRIC MEASUREMENT (WHAT A DIFFERENCE!)
Billy Cadaing • June 5, 2025
STANDARD VERSUS METRIC MEASUREMENT (WHAT A DIFFERENCE!)
Standard vs. Metric: Understanding the Tools Behind the Wrenches at 17th Street Automotive
At 17th Street Automotive
in Virginia Beach, we work on all makes and models—from classic American muscle cars to modern European and Japanese vehicles. That means our toolbox has to include both standard (SAE) and metric tools. But what’s the real difference? And why does it matter to your vehicle’s service?
In this blog, we break down the history, usage, and accuracy of standard vs. metric measurements and explain why understanding both systems is critical in the automotive repair industry.
🔧 A Quick History: Why Two Systems?
The standard (or SAE – Society of Automotive Engineers) system uses inches and fractions of inches, and it has deep roots in American manufacturing. It was the norm for U.S.-built cars and trucks throughout much of the 20th century.
The metric system, on the other hand, is based on millimeters and centimeters, and it’s used globally. As foreign-made vehicles from Japan, Germany, Korea, and elsewhere became popular in the U.S., the automotive industry had to adapt to a dual-measurement world.
Today, even many U.S. automakers like Ford and GM design parts using the metric system because of global supply chains and manufacturing efficiencies.
🔩 Standard (SAE) Tools and Measurement
Standard measurement is based on inches and fractions—think 1/2", 9/16", or 3/8". It was the primary system for American vehicles until the 1980s and is still common on older trucks, classic cars, and domestic heavy-duty equipment.
Common uses in auto repair:
Classic American vehicles
Large trucks and older utility vehicles
Custom or aftermarket parts made in the U.S.
Benefits:
Familiarity for U.S. technicians
Readily available replacement parts for older vehicles
🔧 Metric Tools and Measurement
The metric system uses millimeters and is the standard for nearly every modern vehicle worldwide. You’ll see tools like 10mm, 13mm, or 17mm sockets used in almost every modern repair.
Common uses in auto repair:
All European, Asian, and modern U.S. vehicles
Engines, electrical components, sensors, and suspension systems
EVs and hybrid vehicles (often metric only)
Benefits:
Universally adopted in automotive manufacturing
Easier decimal-based calculations
Standardized across global platforms
🎯 Which Is More Accurate?
Technically, both systems are accurate—they’re just different units of measure. However, the metric system is generally considered more precise, particularly for engineering and manufacturing, due to its base-10 simplicity and tighter tolerances.
For example:
A 10mm socket fits a bolt head that’s exactly 10mm across.
A 3/8” socket (roughly 9.525mm) is close but not an exact match for 10mm.
Using the wrong system can strip bolts or damage parts, which is why proper identification and tool selection are crucial.
🔧 Why It Matters at 17th Street Automotive
At 17th Street Automotive, we work on everything from:
American trucks with standard fasteners
European luxury cars with precision metric specs
Japanese hybrids and electric vehicles with global standard fittings
Our technicians are trained to identify and use both systems properly, and our bays are equipped with full SAE and metric toolsets, including digital torque wrenches and diagnostic tools.
Whether it’s a 9/16” lug nut or a 17mm sensor bolt, you can count on us for precision and care.
🛠️ Schedule Service with Virginia Beach's Trusted Mechanics
From classic restoration to modern diagnostics, 17th Street Automotive is your go-to shop for reliable, knowledgeable, and transparent automotive care. We take pride in doing things right the first time—no guessing, no shortcuts.
📍 Visit us near the First Colonial Road exit in Virginia Beach
📞 Call to schedule: (757) 425-8917
🧰 Honest Repairs. Expert Tools. Real People.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
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17th Street automotive core values and excellence 17th Street Automotive using ATI (automotive training institute) core values: 1. Do the right thing 2. Bring IT every day 3. Check EGO at the door 4. Make quality personal 5. Be performance driven 6. Go the extra mile 7. Continuously improve on everything you do 8. Take Responsibility 9. Strong processes are the foundation of success 10. Honor Commitments 11. We're all in the customer service business 12. Demonstrate passion and our mission 13. Listen generously 14. Recognize the power of beliefs to influence actions 15. Speak the unvarnished truth 16. Practice blameless problem-solving 17. Set and ask for expectations 18. Embrace change 19. Appearance counts 20. Be punctual 21. Be a source for acknowledgement and appreciation 22. Be quick to ask and slow to judge 23. We are a FAMILY 24. Keep things FUN 17th Street Automotive: Auto Repair in Virginia Beach Built on Core Values When drivers search for auto repair in Virginia Beach , they’re not just looking for a quick fix. They want a repair shop they can trust —one that treats them like family, communicates openly, and delivers lasting results. At 17th Street Automotive , that’s exactly what we do. Our team lives by guiding principles that keep your experience front and center: Do the right thing – Honest, transparent repairs every time. Bring it every day – Passion, energy, and professionalism in every service. Check ego at the door – Teamwork and collaboration to solve problems quickly. Make quality personal – We treat every repair as if it were for our own family’s car. Go the extra mile – From digital inspections to Carfax updates, details matter. Continuously improve – Training on hybrids, EVs, and advanced diagnostics keeps us ahead. Strong processes, strong results – Tekmetric workflow, warranties, and safety checks keep you covered. We’re family – Customers aren’t just transactions—you’re part of our Virginia Beach community. Keep it fun – Because good service should also feel good. By staying true to these values, we’ve earned a reputation as one of the most trustworthy car repair shops in Virginia Beach . Whether you need brake service, alignments, hybrid/EV expertise, or routine maintenance, our focus is always on safety, performance, and customer care . Why Choose 17th Street Automotive? ✔ ASE-certified technicians ✔ Honest and upfront estimates ✔ Carfax-documented service ✔ 3-year/36,000-mile NAPA warranty coverage ✔ A local team that treats you like family At 17th Street Automotive, values drive everything we do . Schedule your next appointment today and experience why so many Virginia Beach drivers choose us for reliable automotive repair and maintenance .
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August 26, 2025 Don't forget! Our VAA Fall Social events are happening across the state this November! Whether you’re in the mountains, the city, or by the coast, there’s a gathering near you — and we’d love to see you there. Join fellow VAA members for a casual evening of conversation, connection, and fall fun for FREE. Here’s where we’ll be: Charlottesville ️ November 6 | ⏰ 6–8 PM Three Notch’d Brewery Warrenton ️ November 6 | ⏰ 6–8 PM 4J’s Farm Richmond ️ November 20 | ⏰ 6–8 PM The Park RVA Virginia Beach ️ November 20 | ⏰ 6–8 PM Beachside Social Club ️RSVP now and reserve your spot! We can’t wait to reconnect and celebrate the season with you. Sincerely, Virginia Automotive Association
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Essential Shop/Job Supplies for Every Auto Repair & Body Shop – 17th Street Automotive, Virginia Beach When it comes to providing top-notch auto repair and body shop services, having the right shop supplies on hand is key. At 17th Street Automotive in Virginia Beach, VA, we believe that quality repairs start with top-quality products and tools. That’s why we stock a full range of automotive shop supplies to tackle any job — whether you need a routine oil change, brake service, or full-body restoration. Here’s a look at the essential shop supplies we use every day to make sure your car is safe, reliable, and back on the road as soon as possible: ✅ Fluids & Lubricants From topping off your engine oil, power steering fluid, and coolant, to using specialized brake fluid and transmission fluid, our team keeps all the standard automotive fluids in stock so we can address any low-fluid condition immediately. ✅ Cleaners & Degreasers Professional-grade brake cleaner, carb and choke cleaner, and glass cleaner help us deliver a spotless finish. Our shop also uses battery cleaner and protector spray, so we can remove corrosion and keep your battery working like new. ✅ Adhesives & Sealants To ensure every repair is durable and long-lasting, we use RTV silicone, weatherstrip adhesive, epoxy, and threadlocker (such as Loctite Blue and Red). This prevents leaks and keeps fasteners secure. ✅ Shop Consumables & Safety Products A well-equipped shop also needs high-quality shop rags, disposable gloves, masking tape, zip ties, and floor absorbent for oil or coolant spills. Safety gear like safety glasses and ear plugs help protect our technicians while they work. ✅ Specialty Products At 17th Street Automotive, we don’t cut corners — we use trusted products like: PB Blaster to loosen rust and stubborn bolts Dielectric grease to protect electrical connections Spray lubricants for moving parts Bondo and seam sealers for professional body repair heat-shrink tubing, wire connectors, and electrical tape for dependable wiring fixes 🔧 Shop Supplies Inventory ✅ Chemicals and Fluids Brake Cleaner Carb & Choke Cleaner Battery Cleaner & Protector Spray Battery Terminal Protectant Penetrating Oil (e.g. PB Blaster) RTV Silicone (multiple types: black, grey, ultra-black, etc.) Thread Locker (e.g. Loctite Blue, Red) Anti-Seize Compound Dielectric Grease Power Steering Fluid Brake Fluid Windshield Washer Fluid Transmission Fluid Engine Oil (various viscosities) Coolant / Antifreeze ✅ Shop Consumables Shop Rags / Terry Towels Microfiber Cloths Nitrile Gloves Disposable Seat, Floor, and Steering Wheel Covers Parts Cleaning Brushes Zip Ties (assorted sizes) Sandpaper & Sanding Blocks Masking Tape / Duct Tape / Painter’s Tape Sanding & Grinding Discs Wire Wheels & Wire Brushes Scotch-Brite Pads Emery Cloth Grinding Wheels / Cut-Off Wheels ✅ Sealants and Adhesives RTV Silicone Gasket Maker Weatherstrip Adhesive Plastic Trim Adhesive Two-Part Epoxy Super Glue / Instant Adhesives Seam Sealers ✅ Fasteners and Hardware Hose Clamps (various sizes) Cotter Pins Assorted Nuts, Bolts, Screws, and Washers Zip Ties ✅ Lubricants Multipurpose Grease White Lithium Grease Spray Silicone WD-40 Specialty Greases (e.g. wheel bearing grease) ✅ Cleaning Supplies Shop Towels (paper rolls) Disposable Gloves Floor Dry / Oil Absorbent Glass Cleaner Degreaser Hand Cleaner with Pumice Cleaning Wipes Vacuum Filters and Bags ✅ Safety Equipment Safety Glasses Ear Plugs Face Masks / Respirators N95 Masks Fire Extinguishers First Aid Kit Refills ✅ Paint & Body Supplies (for body shop work) Primer Paint Reducer / Thinner Mixing Cups & Stir Sticks Tack Cloths Bondo & Body Filler Spreaders Plastic Sheeting & Drop Cloths Masking Paper ✅ Miscellaneous Consumables Heat Shrink Tubing Electrical Tape Fuses Wire Connectors & Terminals Bulbs (headlight, marker light, etc.) Vacuum Caps Grease Fittings 🏅 Why Shop Supplies Matter Using the right shop supplies isn’t just about making the job easier — it’s also about making sure your repair is completed safely, correctly, and efficiently. From clean rags that prevent contamination to specialty adhesives that seal leaks for the long run, every detail matters. 📍 Ready for a Repair? Choose 17th Street Automotive in Virginia Beach When you visit 17th Street Automotive, you can trust that we have the tools, materials, and expertise to get you back on the road quickly — and safely. Our team is proud to use industry-standard shop supplies to perform every job the right way. 📞 Contact us today to schedule your next service, or stop by our shop at 17th Street Automotive in Virginia Beach. Let our experienced team take care of your vehicle — because you deserve only the best!
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17th Street Automotive Re-Torque Wheel Policy Effective Date: 06/10/2024 Applies To: All Customers Receiving Wheel Removal/Reinstallation Services Purpose This policy is designed to ensure customer safety, prevent wheel-off incidents, and maintain the integrity of our service standards. Proper re-torquing after wheel installation is critical to avoid potential hazards caused by wheel nut loosening due to thermal expansion, vibration, or initial settling. When Re-Torquing Is Required Re-torquing is strongly recommended for the following services: Tire replacement or wheel rotation Brake jobs involving removal of wheels Suspension work involving wheel hub or bearing components Axle-related repairs Any reinstallation of wheels for any reason Customer Acknowledgment Process Upon service completion involving wheel removal or installation, each customer will receive a Re-Torque Reminder Form, either printed or sent digitally via email/text. The reminder includes: Torque specification for their vehicle Date of service Recommended date or mileage to return (usually within 50–100 miles or 3–7 days, whichever comes first) Waiver of liability for failure to return for re-torque Re-Torque Service Details Cost: Free of charge Time Required: 10–15 minutes, walk-ins welcome No appointment required, but customers are encouraged to call ahead if visiting during peak hours Performed by: Certified technicians using calibrated torque wrenches to manufacturer specs Customer Education At the time of service, advisors and technicians will inform customers: Why re-torquing is critical What risks are associated with skipping the re-torque That alloy wheels especially are susceptible to torque loss due to temperature and material expansion Documentation & Liabilit y All re-torque reminders and service completion notes are logged in the Tekmetric system under the customer's vehicle history Customers who choose not to return for a re-torque will have a note added to their file stating they were advised of the importance and declined or did not follow through A disclaimer is included on all relevant invoices, noting that 17th Street Automotive is not liable for wheel-related issues if the recommended re-torque is not performed Policy Sign-Off (Optional But Highly Suggested) For high-risk jobs (suspension/lift kits/custom wheels), a customer acknowledgment signature may be required, stating they understand and accept responsibility for following up with re-torque recommendations. Technician Accountability All torquing is performed with calibrated tools and logged under the tech’s ID Spot checks are done weekly to ensure calibration standards are being upheld Any issues are documented and reviewed during technician performance evaluations Policy Review Cycle This policy is reviewed every 12 months or as needed in response to new safety data, equipment updates, or legal requirements. goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
