EPS Steering Assist
Modern electric power steering (EPS) steering gears are inextricably linked with body and chassis control electronics, which is a very good reason for an alignment technician to develop a working relationship with a modern, enhanced scan tool.
GM Tech Tip: Car With Wide And Low Aspect Ratio Tires Pulls, Wanders Or Tramlines
Some customers may comment their vehicle has a tendency to pull left or right depending on road conditions. Typical descriptions may refer to the vehicle not tracking properly or that the car wanders.
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.
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.
Specialty Wheel Alignments And Parts
Many OEMs are building cars with little to no alignment adjustment capabilities because of the tightened tolerances they have already. While the alignment is perfect when it rolls out of the factory, what happens when it starts to age and the body and cradle start to settle? With the limited adjustments available, there’s almost no range left. And, it doesn’t take long before tires wear and the vehicle begins to display other unwanted handling characteristics.
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.
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.
Electric Power Steering: Mating Electrical And Mechanical Diagnostics
Most electric power steering system modules are on the high-speed CAN network with the engine control, ABS and transmission control modules. Some vehicles will also include the body control module and other modules that are critical to the safety of the vehicle. These modules share a lot of data to make sure the driver does not notice when the electric power steering is working.
Alignment Specs: 2006-2010 Volkswagen Passat And 2009-2012 CC (B6 Platform)
The VW B6 Passat for 2006 was an entirely new design. It was followed by the coupe CC in 2009. The complicated four-link front suspension from the B5 platform with four ball joints was replaced with a cast-aluminum lower control arm and a MacPherson strut. In the rear, the Passat received an independent suspension with a trailing link design.
What DOT Really Means: The Do’s And Don’ts Of Inspection And Replacement
Brake hoses are the most government-regulated components on a vehicle. Anyone making brake assemblies must be registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT). All aftermarket hose, fittings and complete hoses must conform to FMVSS 106 and SAE J1401. These tests are demanding and often exceed what a vehicle will see in the real world.
