Nissan Tech Tip: Groaning/Grinding Noise from Front Brakes
Use this bulletin to service a 1998-2000 Quest if the vehicle’s front brakes make a loud, low-frequency groan/grind noise when stopping. The groan/grind addressed by this bulletin may occur at normal operating temperatures and is not a "creep groan." A creep groan occurs when the brakes are released slightly and the vehicle creeps forward.
A/C Update: Keeping the Black Death at Bay
Over time, moisture contamination in an A/C system will form corrosive acids that attack metal surfaces and break down the lubricating qualities of the compressor oil. The result is a dark-colored sludge called “Black Death” that can gum up the orifice tube or expansion valve and ruin the compressor. How does moisture get in the
Computers: Why You Can’t Do Business Today Without Them
It’s hard to imagine any automotive repair shop doing business today without the benefit of multiple computers. Yet some shops continue to do business and fix cars the "old fashioned way" with no computers whatsoever. I can’t help but wonder how much longer some of these shops will stay in business.
Honda Tech Tip: Knocking from the Front Suspension
Some owners of Honda Civics may complain of a knocking coming from the front suspension while driving over a bumpy road. This may be caused by the damper shaft nut not being tight enough. To correct the problem, loosen and retorque the damper shaft nut to the appropriate torque specification.
Tech Tip: Boom-Type Noise During Engine Warm-Up on Chevy Astro Vans
Some customers may comment on a boom-type noise heard in the vehicle passenger compartment during engine warm-up. Install an exhaust dampener assembly on affected vehicles using the following service procedure.
Jeep Tech Tip: Squeak-Like Sound from Front Bumper Crossmember
A customer may experience a squeak-like sound when driving slowly over driveway entrances, road bumps or when performing parking lot maneuvers. The squeak-like sound may occur when the vehicle body/frame is flexed (twists). This condition may occur when the front edge flange of either frame rail rubs against the backside of the front bumper crossmember.
Tech Tip: Durango Brake Shudder or Vibration
2003 Dodge Durango vehicles may exhibit pulsation or vibration in the brake pedal and/or steering wheels when the brakes are applied. The condition is most noticeable over 50 mph, but can occur at lower speeds.
Honda Civic Tech Tip: Inaccurate Fuel Gauge Reading
At any fuel level, the fuel gauge reading drops by 1/4 tank, or three to four graduation marks. In some cases, the fuel gauge indicates "E" and the low fuel warning light is on. After driving for several minutes, or cycling the ignition switch off/on, the fuel gauge returns to the correct reading.
Tech Tip: Expedition/Navigator Unintended Brake Assist
Some 2003-2006 Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator vehicles may exhibit excessive pedal travel and/or low brake pedal effort due to the mechanical or electronic brake assist being activated.
Tech Tip: Mitsubishi Spark Plug Fouling
Customers with any Mitsubishi model who drive short distances in cold weather may experience spark plug fouling. If a vehicle is hard to start or exhibits rough idle or misfire, the spark plugs may be wet or have some accumulated carbon deposits. Cleaning the plugs should correct the problem. Spark plug replacement should not be necessary.