The Forgotten Fourth Pedal…Or…The Seldom-Used Stick
On some vehicles it is the forgotten fourth pedal. The emergency or parking brake is a critical component of the brake systems that should not be ignored. Though most motorists seldom use their parking brakes, it is a required safety device and must work properly when called upon to keep a vehicle stationary. The main
Brake System Service: Eliminating Noise and Vibration Problems
Brake noise and vibration are two things few people will tolerate for very long ‹ especially owners of high-performance European sports cars and luxury sedans that are renowned for their eye-popping stopping power. People who spend upward of $30,000 or more for an upscale Asian or European nameplate usually expect their brakes to be quiet.
Missed Services
Uncovering missed service can bring an instant profit, while at the same time resulting in customer gratification. Unfortunately, some services are often overlooked in our daily routine. It’s easy to gain tunnel vision in this business, only fixing what the car came in for, while ignoring the rest of the vehicle. Whether it’s because of
Friction Material Selection
Because today’s lighter and more friction-efficient disc brakes have become very sensitive to differences in friction materials, the issue of selecting a quality brake pad is becoming increasingly relevant to the quality-conscious installer. To illustrate, aftermarket manufacturers of high-performance disc brakes offer literally dozens of racing pads that are qualitatively equal, but vary widely in
Always Inspect Hardware During Brake Repairs
Though it isn’t required, many brake experts recommend replacing the drum hardware when the brakes are relined to restore the brakes to like-new condition. But often the hardware isn’t replaced because it doesn’t seem necessary. Unless the hardware is badly corroded or shows obvious signs of stress, like severe heat discoloration or other visible damage,
Volkswagen New Beetle Maintenance Essentials
The New Beetle has been around for several years now, and except for the classic shape, it’s not the Beetle of old. Unlike its ancestor, this New Beetle is conventional, modern and sophisticated. It has all of the bells and whistles of other current models, the performance and handling of a conventional front-wheel-drive car, and
The Ins and Outs of Diagnosing Battery, Charging and Starter Problems
You answer the phone and the voice on the other end says, “My car won’t start.” When temperatures drop, the no-start calls start pouring in. Cold weather increases the strain on the battery, starting and charging system and tends to bring out any weaknesses in these components. Cold weather thickens the oil and makes the
Flash! Reprogramming Vehicle Computers
Typically, when someone brings up the subject of “flashing” you get two reactions. The technologically informed service professionals think about added revenue and service, while rowdier folks think about doing something that could land them in front of a judge. I think we can all agree that the first group is far better off, and
OHC Engine Repairs and Service on Chrysler’s 3.5L V6
Chrysler’s 24-valve 3.5L single overhead cam V6 engine was introduced back in 1993 in their LH platform cars (Chrysler Concorde, Dodge Intrepid and Eagle Vision). Since then it has been used in a variety of Chrysler models. The 3.5L engine is an even-firing power plant with aluminum cylinder heads, a single camshaft in each cylinder
Ending a Volvo Head Gasket Leak
Volvo engines have always been noted for their durability and long-term, trouble-free operation. But just like any internal combustion engine, they could develop head gasket problems that stem from owner neglect or the engine design. This article will detail the diagnostic process and procedures for replacing the head gasket in the most common Volvo engine