May 2019 Archives - Brake & Front End
Simplifying AWD Systems

No matter the manufacturer, there is almost always an all-wheel drive (AWD) option.

Drivetrain: Diagnostic Test Drive

Problems can be spotted from the moment you put the vehicle in gear.

Ride Height And Spring Diagnostics: Why Do Springs Droop?

No road is entirely flat. Even a small tar strip or dip causes movement in the suspension. This movement is controlled by the spring and dampener. No matter the type of movement, the spring is compressed and then releases the energy into the body, dampener or road.

Alignment Specs: Subaru Legacy 2005-2009

The fourth-generation Subaru Legacy was produced from 2005-2009. It was available as both a sedan and a wagon until 2008 when the wagon was dropped. The front suspension design uses a MacPherson strut and the rear suspension is a multi-link design that changes toe and camber dynamically as the suspension and body change position.

Starting Off: Times Change – Or Do They?

The last time I wrote a column in a Babcox TechGroup publication, I was editor of Brake & Front End. I had dark hair with not a touch of grey (never mind about the mullet). There wasn’t a single www.anything.com anywhere in the issue, said Doug Kaufman, Editorial Director.

Viewpoint: How Did We Get To This Point?

I recently spent a day at a shop sitting in the waiting room and hanging around the bays. What really amazed me was the volume of cars with check engine and other lights on in the instrument cluster and how long they have been illuminated, said Andrew Markel, Director of Content.

Brake Pad Wear Patterns: Reading The Brake Pads For Safety And Profit

Before you throw out the old brake pads or order a new set, take a good look at them. Worn brake pads can tell you a lot about the entire brake system and prevent the new pads from suffering the same fate. It can also help you to recommend a brake repair that returns the vehicle to like-new condition.

Brake Job: BMW 1-Series (2008-2013)

The BMW 1-Series might be the least expensive BMW, but it shares a lot of the procedures that are common when it comes to servicing brakes on larger BMWs.

TPMS: Reading The Future

There is a perception among many drivers – as well as technicians – that TPMS has become such a universal product that one system fits all and that one service procedure will cure all ills. And, although tools have made things easier because they can handle more complex diagnostic tasks than ever before, the systems and sensors can still be complicated.