January 2019 Archives - Brake & Front End
Ford Tech Tip: Sustained Steering Wheel Oscillation Above 45 MPH

Some 2017-2019 F-250/F-350 4WD vehicles built on or before July 31st, 2018, may exhibit a sustained steering wheel oscillation after driving over rough pavement or an expansion joint above 45 mph. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.

GM Tech Tip: Uneven Brake Wear

During a brake inspection, some complaints of uneven front brake pad wear have been reported. The vehicle may have low mileage, typically around 10K miles. The inner pad on either the front left or right side may be worn out.

Wheel Bearings And Wheel Speed Sensors

If you are replacing a wheel bearing on a late-model vehicle, you will be dealing with a wheel speed sensor. In the past decade, wheel speed sensors have been moving from differentials, axles and knuckles to inside or on the wheel bearing or hub unit. At this location, the sensors are more accurate and often more protected from the elements. The average wheel bearing job may require a scan tool, scope or meter to verify the operation of the sensor.

TPMS And Radio Waves: What You Can’t See Can Hold Up A Relearn

TPMS and keyless entry can be difficult to understand because these systems rely on transmitting, receiving and decoding radio waves. You can see wires connecting modules and components, but seeing radio signals takes a little faith in science.

Ball Joint Inspection And Service

Ball joints have been on most vehicles for more than 70 years. They were replacements for kingpins, but they also became essential for independent suspensions. While the basics of the ball joint have remained the same, the materials have improved along with design refinements that enable the joint to last longer and carry greater loads. In the aftermarket, some manufacturers have focused on improving the OE designs and adding serviceability to the joint.

Brake Job: 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline

You might assume that the Honda Ridgeline shares a lot of the same components as the Pilot. Aside from the general proportions, the Ridgeline is a different vehicle made in a different plant. The brakes on the Ridgeline are robust and have very few problems with noise or pulsation. Where the service issues can be found are with the parking brake and hydraulics.

2007-2011 Ford Expedition And Navigator Air Suspension

The Ford Expedition air suspension does more than just lift and raise the vehicle. The system levels the vehicle under loads and when a trailer is attached. The system uses only two air bags on the rear axle, unlike previous models with air bags on all four corners. Also, unlike previous Expedition models, the rear suspension is independent. If the air suspension is malfunctioning, it will have a direct impact on tire wear.

Alignment Specs: 2006-2016 Chrysler LX/LD

When something works, you don’t change it. This is the case with the Chrysler LX/LD platform used for the Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300. The suspension was taken from a Mercedes platform when the company was part of Daimler. The alignment of this platform is basically the same from 2006 to 2016.