Steven Bailey has been a vehicle powertrain failure analyst since 1984. First starting out as a powertrain warranty inspector for Chrysler, Mazda, Subaru and several dozen powertrain warranty administrators. Analyzing every type of engine, transmission or powertrain related to its precise cause of failure. Having the opportunity to work closely throughout the 80’s and early 90’s with elite powertrain claim managers such as Mike Weiss of Chrysler Service Contracts. Providing over 1,000 engine investigations for manufacturers who can tell the difference between proper analysis and personal opinion.
In the early 90’s I started Technical Inspections that specialized in vehicle forensics for the insurance community as an insurance services provider. Specializing in failure analysis and forensics of vehicle systems, with the emphasis on powertrain claims. With my intense background as a powertrain claim specialist I found a niche within the insurance community that was in dire need of assistance. From engine failures investigations to fuel contamination claims and vehicle fire investigations.
As a specialist in everything related to automotive, trucking and heavy equipment systems, I have handled every kind and type of powertrain claim. I am degreed in Automotive Technology (highest honors) and was a Professor of Automotive Technology at Mount Wachusett College (in both the mid 1990’s and late 2000’s) where I taught engines, transmissions, suspension, steering, braking and electronic integration.
Some people are curious about why I don’t push ASE Certification. Like my competition does. Even though I use to have my ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician, ASE Certified Master Truck Technician and ASE Certified Master Engine Machinist certifications. It is because I used to be a Professor at Mount Wachusett Community College which was a NATEF Certified teaching institution. NATEF is the educational division of ASE, so I was educating students to the level of ASE. Unfortunately, ASE Certification does not require the knowledge of theory of operation or design within their testing standards. Their certifications are for general diagnostic knowledge, and have little to do with powertrain failure analysis or vehicle forensics. ASE is considered a low bar standard, and is what mechanics use to enter into the automotive industry. It is a tragedy that the insurance industry is being misled into believing that it somehow certifies someone in failure analysis of vehicle systems.
