Curing Customer Noise Complaints With Logic
The topic of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) diagnostics came home to me 20 years ago when I began dabbling in collector car repairs. Customers soon began complaining about wind noise and chassis vibrations in ’60s-era cars.
Understanding Steering Sensors
Modern vehicles need to know the difference between what the driver “wants” and what the vehicle is actually “doing.” The vehicle uses sensors that measure steering angle, brake pedal position and throttle angle to know where the driver wants the vehicle to go.
Putting The Spring In Your Brake Jobs
Brake hardware is often a second thought when it comes to replacing a set of brake pads. I can remember not that long ago when it was rare that any new hardware was included with the replacement brake pads.
Understanding ABS Modulator Problems
Mechanical issues with the ABS modulator or hydraulic control units (HCU), are rare, but they can happen. With more vehicles on the roads having older ABS systems that have not seen proper brake fluid maintenance, mechanical issues are becoming more common.
Overcoming Identity Crisis Means Equal Parts Art And Science
The automotive industry has suffered with an identity crisis for a number of years. Some of it is self-inflicted and some of it is due to public stigma which comes from a lack of understanding about what it takes to successfully move along with a large dose of commoditization in a race to the bottom.
Smart Phone, Dumb Customer
Recently, I went to a shop to get an alignment. I decided to wait and enjoy the shop’s waiting room on a Saturday morning. As the morning rush was coming to a close, in pulled a car with the wear sensors howling.
$25 Billion Bounty Puts Hollywood Heists To Shame
The Auto Care Association and IMR Inc. report that in a recent survey, more than 100,000 American households (driving more than 170,000 vehicles) revealed they know that repairs or maintenance need to be performed on their car but have chosen to delay the work.
White Calipers, Deep Pockets
The Porsche Surface Coated Brake (PSCB) has a hardened tungsten carbide coating and specially developed brake pads to improve performance and reduce brake dust.
Tech Tip: Intensive Wheel Hub Cleaning Process
Recently, we had a Jeep Grand Cherokee in our shop for a brake job. Upon removing the rotor, we found one of the rustiest wheel hubs we have ever seen.
GM Tech Tip: Electronic Power Steering Gear Leaks
On GM vehicles with electric power steering starting in 2009, you may see grease or sealant on certain locations of the steering gear.
Toyota Sienna Alignment Service
When aligning this vehicle, there are three things you should know. First, a Sienna with stability control will require a recalibration of the steering angle sensor. Second, rear tire wear can be a problem on some AWD Siennas. Third, measure the ride height before trying to correct a front caster problem.
Brake Job: 2015-Current Chevy Trax, Buick Encore
The Chevy Trax and Buick Encore are considered sub-compact crossovers based on a car platform. The platform GM chose was the Gamma platform used for the Aveo and Sonic.
