Steering And Suspension Inspection: Keeping The Angles In Line With Ackermann
Most people consider the common tire rod to be low tech. But, when you consider how front suspensions have evolved from straight axles to independent designs, the tie rod has had to adapt to new angles and geometry.
Strategy Of TPMS Diagnostics
The first step in any TPMS diagnostic strategy is to figure out whether or not your customer’s vehicle actually has a TPMS problem. Why? Simply put, there are a number of factors that can cause a TPMS warning light to illuminate or flash – and some are hard to uncover.
ASE Test Prep: Passing The X1
Understanding the relationship between the exhaust system and engine is important when preparing to take the ASE X1 certification test.
How Long Should A Brake Job Last?
All shops want to see a customer again, but not for a brake comeback. What is the magic number of miles that can separate a comeback from a service situation? In my opinion, the minimum is 12,000 miles. Even installing new friction, rotors and calipers will not ensure a long-lasting brake job. The long-lasting brake job is a process.
2005-’12 Toyota Avalon Brake Job
In 2005, Toyota’s Avalon underwent a redesign of its third-generation model, which was larger than previous versions and much sleeker. The Avalon came in four trim levels: the standard XL, Touring, XLS and Limited. The XL included 16″ alloy wheels, while other trims came with larger 17″ wheels.
Electronic Power Steering: More Than Just An Assist
Electric power steering is quickly becoming a standard feature on new vehicles, but it’s not an emerging technology. It’s been in the field for the better part of two decades. Now, electric power steering has continued to advance by making autonomous safety features possible.
Alignment Specs: 2006-2011 VW Jetta & Golf (A5)
Most entry-level VW models featured the same basic suspension used from the advent of the original VW Rabbit. About the only change was from a rear strut suspension to a separate coil spring and shock absorber in the rear. Used for all models of the Golf, Jetta, New Beetle and the Audi TT, this suspension is simple, durable and easy to repair. There is still a beam axle in the rear of pre-2006 FWD cars.
Thinking Through False ABS/ESC Activation Events
Electronic stability control (ESC) became a mandated safety feature for the 2012 model year. Along with all of these advancements, false activation complaints have surfaced. Solving them has been a diagnostic conundrum through the years. False activation incidents involve the ABS modulator taking over braking or intervening to restore vehicle stability. The customer may feel feedback in the brake pedal like a pulsation or sudden drop. Some may also experience a drop in power or the vehicle may suddenly pull in one direction.
What’s Coming Next With Differentials And Transfer Cases?
With a lot of AWD cars and SUVs coming off powertrain warranties, you are going to see more differential and transfer case maintenance and repairs at your shop. What makes these drivetrain components different from previous systems is that these have more electronic and mechanical controls that work with the ABS and stability control systems. This is a huge service opportunity.
Air Ride FAQs
Does air ride scare you? Would you prefer to sell a conversion kit rather than diagnose an air ride code or light? You are not alone. On the surface, these systems can seem complex when compared to metal springs. But, once you understand how the system senses the vehicle’s state and how the air pressure is managed, air ride diagnostics and service won’t seem so overwhelming.
A/C Oil Update
HVAC systems often fail because the air conditioning compressor fails. Not following the proper service procedures or compressor oil recommendations could be factors that contribute to premature compressor failure.
Corrosion And TPMS
It is that time of year again when the affects of road salt, deicers and potholes start to take their toll on vehicles. The latest victims of the salt belt are TPMS sensors and valve stems. The corrosion we are all most familiar with is that which affects steel, iron’s most common alloy. While just the presence of oxygen in the air, along with some moisture, is enough for something made of steel to begin to corrode, most of the time it is accelerated by some other environmental factor, which causes the most problems.
