Inside Replacement Sensors: Direct, Programmable and Universal
To understand any replacement sensor, you have to understand this: Sensors only transmit, they do not receive when they are on a vehicle. No vehicle asks a sensor, “How’s it going.” The sensor just transmits. The vehicle is looking for a sensor ID number that corresponds with the one programmed into the module and then
Loaded Caliper Installation Guidelines
Caliper replacement is often the best course of action to ensure that a braking system will perform at an optimal level, both in terms of safety, performance and maximizing brake pad life. There are a bunch of small reasons to recommend caliper replacement: rubber boots, seals and gaskets that wear down, dry up and eventually
Converter Codes: How Long Will the Light Stay Out?
A moral dilemma that many shops encounter on a regular basis: A good customer comes in with the engine light ablaze. Running the usual diagnostics, you encounter a catalytic converter efficiency code, a slow to respond oxygen sensor or some proprietary fuel trim code. Other than the light, the customer has not noticed any other
The Case for On-Car Wheel Balancing and Wheel-to-Hub Indexing
Off-car wheel balancers do an excellent job of measuring dynamic unbalance — static and couple — and many also measure tire/wheel uniformity, radial runout or calculate radial force variation (RFV) to help eliminate vibration and verify the assembly is balanced and round when rolling. However, two problematic assumptions are made with off-car balancers: 1. That
Is Replacing Wheel Bearings in Pairs Ethical?
Replacing wheel bearings on both sides of a vehicle used to be standard procedure as it was economical insurance against a comeback. In those days, a set of bearings and races could be purchased under $5 a side, including the seal. A technician worth his salt could install and adjust a set of bearings in
10 Alignment Tips – See Beyond the Angles
1. Talk to the driver. Always ask questions at the time the vehicle is written up. Find out why customers think they need an alignment. 2. Take notes. Nothing is worse than a repair order that just says “perform alignment” or “needs alignment.” Notes on the repair order can prevent comebacks that stem from a
