BMW Tech Tip: Anti-Tamper Socket To Service 328d Models
BMW announced the distribution of a special anti-tamper socket needed to remove and replace the undercar protection panel covering the SCR module on 2014-current F30/F31 328d models. The socket will be available at BMW dealers.
Volkswagen Jetta A5/MK5 Brake Job
The A5, or MK5, Jetta is one of the most common Volkswagens on the road. The brake system does not differ greatly from the previous platform, but it does have a few quirks.
Autonomous Vehicles: Changes Are Coming
With every passing year, there are fewer cars and trucks needing throttle cables, distributor caps and spark plug wires. Even if we have lost these service opportunities, we have gained twice as many in the past two decades.
Replacing Wheel Bearing Hubs Equipped With Wheel Speed Sensors
When engineers came up with the idea of putting the wheel speed sensor (WSS) and tone ring inside a sealed wheel bearing hub assembly, it seemed like a great idea. The sealed environment would help protect the sensor and make it less vulnerable to damage or contamination from the outside.
Active Shocks And Struts
Why would an engineer or automaker include this feature on a vehicle? An active dampener allows for a ride without compromise. The three inputs can be used to detect a rough road or an emergency situation where body roll could change the stability of the vehicle.
Subaru Forester Active Valve Lift System Diagnostics
I recently had a 2007 Subaru Forester with an elusive problem in the shop. It was equipped with the 2.5L SOHC Active Valve Lift System (AVLS) and the horizontal four-cylinder engine. While one of our techs and I were working through it, I was also teaching a Subaru driveability class for NAPA.
Ford Edge And Lincoln MKX Suspension And TPMS Diagnostics
In 2007, the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossover vehicles were introduced. The vehicles are based on the CD3 platform that is used for the Fusion and other Ford vehicles. While there are both FWD and AWD models on the streets, the alignment procedures are the same.
Toyota TPMS Diagnostics
Toyota TPMS might seem like the easiest system to service because most models have a reset button under the dash, but trusting in this button to cure all your TPMS issues might get you in trouble.
Corrosion Issues With Fuel Filler Necks
Since the introduction of the OBD II system, manufacturers have continued to improve on the monitoring of evaporative emissions, with the complete evaporative system being under a scrutinized surveillance. Codes like P0440 to P0456 are all related to the fuel vapor control, including leaks.
Brake Rotors And Pads: 12 Myths Debunked
There are some myths about brake pads, rotors and hydraulics that need to be busted. On the surface, some of these myths make sense. The logic might even seem profound, but, ultimately, they do not help resolve real brake system issues. These myths can hurt a technician’s ability to effectively diagnose and solve common brake problems as well as customer concerns.
Chevrolet Trailblazer 2002-2009 Brake Job
The Chevrolet Trailblazer is based on the GMT 360. While its brake system is not groundbreaking by any means, there are some intricacies that technicians should be aware of on this common platform.
Human Resources: Putting It All On The Table
Hiring, firing and quitting are unavoidable events in the automotive repair industry. Everybody hates to deal with these aspects of the business because it can be risky on both sides of the table — not just monetarily, but emotionally, as well.
