When Tekmetric isn't loading or feels sluggish, the issue is often related to your local computer or browser settings rather than the software itself. This guide covers the essential steps to ensure your browser is optimized so you can get back to writing repair orders and managing your shop without interruption.
Understanding Browser Performance
Tekmetric is a cloud-based system that relies heavily on your browser's ability to process data quickly. Over time, your browser stores "cookies" (small files that remember you) and "cache" (saved versions of websites) to help pages load faster. However, if this stored data becomes outdated or "corrupted," it can cause Tekmetric to hang, show old data, or fail to load specific buttons and menus.
1. Verify Your Browser (Google Chrome)
For the best experience and full compatibility with all Tekmetric features—including integrated parts ordering and payment processing—Google Chrome is the only supported and recommended browser.
Check your browser: If you are using Microsoft Edge, Safari, or Firefox, you may encounter "glitches" that aren't present in Chrome.
Update Chrome: Ensure you are on the latest version. Click the three dots (⋮) in the top right corner > Help > About Google Chrome. Chrome will automatically check for and install updates.
2. How to Clear Cache and Cookies
If Tekmetric is acting "glitchy," the first step a shop admin or advisor should take is clearing the browser's memory.
Open Chrome and click the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner.
Select Settings.
On the left sidebar, click Privacy and security.
Click Clear browsing data.
Set the Time Range to All time.
Check the boxes for Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
Click Clear data.
3. Advanced Troubleshooting: "Incognito" Test
If you’ve cleared your cache and the issue persists, a "rogue" browser extension (like an ad-blocker) might be interfering with Tekmetric.
Open an Incognito Window: Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + N (Mac).
Log in to Tekmetric: If the software works perfectly in Incognito mode, one of your browser extensions is the culprit. You should disable your extensions one by one in your normal browser window to find the one causing the conflict.
4. Check Your Connection
Since Tekmetric is real-time, a "blip" in your internet can cause a "Request Failed" error.
Speed Test: Visit a site like Fast.com to ensure you have a stable connection.
Hardwire: If your shop's Wi-Fi is spotty (especially in the bays), we recommend a hardwired Ethernet connection for stationary computers like those at the service desk.
FAQs
Q: I cleared my cache, but I'm still seeing an old version of an RO. What do I do? A: Try a "Hard Refresh." Hold down Ctrl and press F5 (Windows) or hold Shift and click the Reload button (Mac). This forces Chrome to ignore the cache and redownload the page from scratch.
Q: Why do I have to keep logging in every time I open my browser? A: If you have Chrome set to "Clear cookies and site data when you close all windows," it will sign you out of Tekmetric every time. You can change this in your Chrome Privacy settings.
Q: Does Tekmetric work on tablets? A: Yes! However, ensure you are using the Chrome app on your tablet rather than the default "Internet" or Safari browser for the most stable performance.