Auto Shop Writer Bulletins

UPDATED: 15:45 PM 5/30/2024

When discussing this problem with CARFAX, they indicated issues on their servers also.  They were re-booting their system and working to resolve the problem.

Our tests indicate the problem has been resolved, and we found that CARFAX is once again working.

At this time, Go to Tools ->3rd Party -> Carfax and answer Yes to the first TWO questions.  You do NOT need to have it flag the vehicle/client records because we did not change those settings.

Please text or email if you have further problems.  We will monitor this for the next few days and likely update our code/methodology to trap and prevent problems if this does not work again in the future.  

Original post:
We have received reports this morning that people are having an error when trying to add a new vehicle.  This was checked immediately.

The Cause !
On 5/29/2024 Microsoft released an update to a Windows file MSXML3.dll.  This contains major communication functions which we use when communicating with CARFAX ( and other resources ).  It is NOT something we can handle.  Many developers of other software are reporting the problems so a new update will hopefully resolve the problem they have caused, but we have no idea how long that will take.  ( To be honest, Quality Control is NOT a Microsoft priority anymore, and thus we’ll sadly see these kinds of issues arise.

This dynamic link library (DLL) file is an essential component of the Microsoft XML Core Services, which provides a set of services for building, deploying, and running XML-based applications.  XML is the common method for transmitting data to, and from, web servers ( services ), and is also used for formatting data in many applications.  In this case, we integrate with Carfax and other 3rd party services and the protocal for data is using XML.

The Work Around

For now it will be necessary to turn OFF Carfax so the system does not encounter this failure.  To do so:

1). On your main screen, select Tools -> 3rd Party -> Carfax

2) Click on the Accept button

3).Answer NO to the prompts

4) Even though it says Carfax is activated, it is actually turned off.

5). You should now be able to add new clients

 

We are very cautious about issuing updates, especially around holidays and summer vacation schedules.  Our next update is in development, but it has significant enhancements and will be tested very carefully before it is released.  Do not expect it until mid-summer at the earliest.  We are waiting for our team members to complete their side of the process.

We will be releasing a new update in a few days.  It incorporates some new core elements that are being updated through extensive work by our development partners.  Although the update contains 98% of the new code, there is one file change that you will need to make IF YOU ARE RUNNING THE 32BIT VERSION ON ANY WORKSTATIONS.

When you sign into MLS 12, look at the small bar at the top of the program.  It will say if that machine is using the 32 bit or 64 bit version.  If you are using the 32 bit version, you must do this:

Go to Windows explorer.  It is the little manilla folder across the task bar on the bottom of your Windows screen.  Click on it to open it.

On the left column, find the Server.  It may be listed as a drive, or you may have to go to Network and find the server computer.

Find the MLS12s folder.  Click on the arrow so you can see the subfolders.  Click on the MLS subfolder

On the right side of the screen, look for libcurl.dll.   Right click on it and click the Copy icon or word Copy

Go back up to Local Computer and Select the C drive.  Find the MLS12c folder.  Right click on it and select Paste.  It will ask if you wish to overwrite the existing file.  Say Yes.

That is it.  You will now be all ready for the new update.

REMEMBER:  You only need to do this on computers that say they are running the 32 bit system.  On most computers, you are likely running the 64 bit version.

If you find this task overwhelming, feel free to call and we can remote in to do this for you.  DO NOT DELAY.  If you follow this process, when we release the update you will have absolutely no problem.