MiraCosta College in Oceanside, CA, Offers Hybrid Vehicle Training Program
MiraCosta College in Oceanside, CA, has received a $400,000 federal stimulus grant to assist in developing their new hybrid vehicle training program. The course is only open to trained technicians who are able to pass a skills test administered by the college.
Tool Feature: Scan Tools and Software Updates
Though some vehicles have diagnostic modes that can show fault codes and other diagnostic information via the instrument panel, climate control system or driver information display, most simply turn on the check engine light or another warning light when a problem occurs. So without a scan tool, there’s no way to tell what the problem might be, let alone make an accurate diagnosis of which sensor or other component may need to be replaced.
Tech Feature: Boosting Profits Through Turbocharger Services
A turbo’s basic purpose is to boost power, so when an otherwise healthy engine suddenly becomes anemic, it often (but not always) means turbo trouble.
Popular Counter Stool, Expanded Rebates and More Featured in 2010 Tenneco Expert Plus Program
Designed to help automotive service businesses increase their share of the undercar service market, the 2010 Expert Plus program, now in its 12th year, includes more benefits than ever, thanks to extensive input from shop owners and managers across North America.
Tech Tip: SKF Offers Preventive Maintenance Recommendations and Tips for Avoiding Bearing Failure
A recent technical bulletin by SKF provides preventive maintenance recommendations for avoiding premature bearing failure, including tips on how to prevent repeat failures and assure customer safety.
Tech Feature: Servicing Worn Wheel Bearings
When a wheel bearing goes out on a vehicle, it may or may not give much warning. Typical clues include noise from the vicinity of the wheel, possibly some steering wander or looseness in the steering, and/or some abnormal tread wear on the front tires. Also, an ABS light could illuminate.
Management: A Shop’s Opinion on Reman Aftermarket Automotive Parts
Remanufactured auto parts have become a major portion of today’s multi-billion dollar automotive replacement parts industry. Today, just about every type of rebuildable component from windshield wiper motors to computers to complete engines and transmissions are offered through a local warehouse, jobber or retail parts outlet.
Beck/Arnley Adds 341 New Foreign Nameplate Part Numbers in Fourth Quarter 2009
Beck/Arnley is continuously expanding its product offering and catalog to provide aftermarket automotive parts needed by today’s service dealers and technicians.
Make Sure You Have the Necessary Transmission Service Tools and Equipment
The three areas to consider are Electrical testing for things like solenoids, neutral safety switches, etc.; Electronic testing/diagnostics for computer-controlled transmissions; and Pressure testing to check internal hydraulic fluid pressures.
Tech Feature: Engine Technology Gets a Boost
As a technician, you’ll need to understand how Ford’s EcoBoost turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine works, since the automaker plans to incorporate it in 90% of its new vehicles over the next three years.