April 2019 Archives - Brake & Front End
Ford Expedition Tech Tip: Stiff Ride And Suspension Warning Messages

On 2014-2017 Ford Expedition models with the Vehicle Dynamic Suspension, the system looks at a lot more than just the height of the vehicle to control the pressure in the air springs and the valving of the shocks. The VDM (Vehicle Dynamics Module) is connected to the high-speed CAN to communicate with other modules like the ECM, BCM and ABS module.

Live Axle Wheel Bearing Replacement

Replacing wheel bearings on a vehicle with a live rear axle may not be one of the most regular jobs you do, but it can be one of the most profitable. While the basics have not changed in more than 60 years, new seal materials and differential designs have added new wrinkles.

GM Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)

GM TPMS on Buick, Pontiac, Chevy (Chevrolet), GMC Cadillac and Hummer models are some of the easiest to service if you have the right tools and knowledge. Starting in 2007, most vehicles use a Schrader- or VDO-manufactured system that shares the same relearn procedures and behaviors. There are exceptions however, like the Pontiac Vibe.

Torque Wrenches And Wheel Bearings

The torque specifications for a wheel bearing are much more exact now than in the past. This not only goes for the axle nut, but the fasteners that hold the hub unit to the suspension and lug nuts. So, what has changed? Simply put, everything has become bigger while at the same time it is getting lighter.

Brake Noise: Using Engineering Logic To Cure Common Noise Issues

The most important thing to know is that all brakes make noise. When the friction material makes contact with the rotor, it causes the brake pad and rotor to vibrate. The vibration moves the air around and makes noise.

More Than Codes: Finding The Story Behind An Emission Code

If you are the kind of technician who solves emission codes by replacing parts and hoping the check engine light does not come back on, this article is not for you. But, if you want to diagnose a emissions-related problem, confirm the fix, and know when the car leaves the shop the job will be completed, this article is for you.

2010-2019 Ford Taurus Alignment Specs

With more than half a million made and almost 65,000 police interceptors in use, the sixth-generation Ford Taurus is a vehicle that will roll into your alignment bay sooner or later.

Viewpoint: Tesla’s Answer To The Technician Shortage

The requirements for the START program are high. A candidate should already have an automotive associate degree or post-secondary education, or relevant work experience. The program also specifies that the candidate should have a strong electrical background.

Diagnosing Electric Power Steering (EPS) Issues

If you’re an import specialist, it’s important to know that, although electric power steering (EPS) has been introduced on many 2004-and-later domestic applications, EPS recently began appearing on popular import nameplates like the 2015 Honda S2000 and 2014 and 2015 models of Toyota RAV4, Camry and Highlander.

Brake Job: 2003-2011 Honda Element

It may look like a car that was never removed from the box, but the Honda Element isn’t boxy when it comes to the brakes. The Element is based on the CR-V platform and, while there is nothing tricky about this brake system, it is hardware intensive, with floating shims, abutment clips and pad separator springs in the front.