Update On CAN Diagnostics
Whether you like it or not, Controller Area Networks (CAN) have taken over. CAN technology has been steadily creeping into more and more new vehicles since it first appeared in 1992 on certain Mercedes-Benz models. Thanks to federal emissions rules, it is now required on all 2008 model year vehicles, and will be forevermore. What
Tech Update: Scan Tools & Code Readers
One thing you can always count on in the automotive repair business is that diagnostic equipment is constantly changing. It must to keep pace with changing automotive technology. So the latest crop of scan tools and code readers have more features, more capabilities and give you more bang for your buck than ever before. There’s
Cleaning Carbon from TDI Intake Systems
Volkwagen has been selling diesel-powered cars in the U.S. for almost 30 years. Turbocharged versions have been available for 25. That is a lot of experience and a testament to the development of a reliable, efficient and durable powerplant. The introduction and development of the TDI (turbocharged direct injection) brought the VW diesel into the
Brian K. Courtney, Allied Fleet Services of Texas
Brian K. Courtney,co-owner Allied Fleet Services of Texas Pasadena, TX There are quite a few really good tools that I’ve bought or made myself over the years, so it’s hard to narrow it down to just a top five list; my best effort follows. The Ingersoll Rand 231 C 1/2” Drive Impact Wrench has been
Tech Tip: The Ins and Outs of Indirect and Direct TPMS
This is the year of the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitor System). It’s been coming for some time. In response to a rash of highly publicized rollover accidents caused by tire failures on SUVs, Congress passed a law called the TREAD Act in 2000 which required all vehicle manufacturers to have TPMS on all their cars and light trucks by 2008. Time has run out, and as far as we know, all the vehicle manufacturers have complied ….
Vehicle Service Professionals Can Earn Exciting Rewards through Federal-Mogul ‘Brake and Front End’ Promotion
Automotive service providers will be able to earn a variety of rewards – including retail SuperCertificates, 30G Video iPod, iPod shuffle players and Best Buy gift cards valued up to $300 – by installing MOOG, National and/or Wagner premium undercar components from Federal-Mogul Corporation ….
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems: The Ins and Outs of Indirect and Direct TPMS
This is the year of the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitor System). It’s been coming for some time. In response to a rash of highly publicized rollover accidents caused by tire failures on SUVs, Congress passed a law called the TREAD Act in 2000 which required all vehicle manufacturers to have TPMS on all their cars
Kia: 4WD Front Hub and Brake System Service
Being import specialist techs, we may not be real familiar with 4WD systems and the associated parts, but that’s no reason to turn away this profitable work. For this article, we’ll look at the 2000 Sportage. The most common complaint you’ll encounter is no 4WD operation, which can usually be traced to problems with the
Keeping on Track with Steering Position Sensors
Cars just keep getting smarter all the time. Sensors are being used to monitor more and more functions, and to share information between vehicle systems that formerly were mute or didn’t communicate with one another. One such sensor is the steering position sensor. The sensor’s basic function is to monitor the driver’s steering inputs. This
SEMA Show Gears Up for Sellout Year
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) says that manufacturers of automotive accessories are showing no signs of slowing down, as evidenced by the 1,643 exhibitors that have already signed up to participate in the 2008 SEMA Show this November ….