Volvo Unveils Two Hot New Concept Cars at the 2005 SEMA Show
The two exciting new concept cars from Volvo explore the opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of just how far vehicle design may be pushed. Painted a glittering Saffron color reminiscent of a desert sunset, the XC70 AT (All Terrain) takes the production Volvo XC70 crossover wagon to the off-road extreme. The T6 Roadster takes Volvo to the drag strip with its 1930s inspired body, wide tires and low beltline.
Inspection by the Numbers
As the saying goes: “The devil is in the details”. Another saying is: “The truth is in the numbers.” When performing a brake inspection, both are true. Replacing the calipers and rotors with every brake job may not be the cure all for ending all for fundamental brake repair problems. An inspection of every component,
Servicing Import ABS Systems
Import anti-lock brake systems (ABS) are pretty much the same as domestic ABS systems. In fact, the same OEM suppliers who make the ABS system components for import vehicle manufacturers also make them for domestic vehicle manufacturers. The differences that do exist are typically limited to calibration, diagnostic codes and procedures, and wiring. The ABS
Eyeball Estimates: Stop Using Percentages if You Cannot Show Your Work!
I have been seeing a lot of estimates recently that project how much “life” is left in the brake pads. This number is often expressed as a percentage. While I do realize that it is a number most customers might be able to understand, it is misleading and often inaccurate. The typical estimate says, “20
Performing Hyundai Maintenance and Profiting From It
Like so many other late-model vehicles, the Hyundai vehicle lineup won’t necessarily keep your bays busy with “repair” work, but can present you with profitable maintenance opportunities. We can no longer afford to let any opportunity for service go unnoticed, and hope that the customer will come back for the next job. It’s an important
Bleed and Flush Pointers
As we all know, a bleed and flush is really two separate processes that many times overlap on the same job. Bleeding the system is done to remove all air from the hydraulic system, while flushing is performed to replace the fluid. More and more shops are performing a variety of fluid flush services as
Seasonal Service
It’s that time of year again. Time to start promoting seasonal service checks. So before family hits the road for vacation with gas possibly hitting $3 per gallon, here are some service items that should be checked. TIRES Tires obviously play a very important role in safe driving because of their affect on traction, handling
Hydro-Boost Power Assist Systems: Operation Diagnosis and Repair
The hydro-boost uses the hydraulic pressure from the power steering system to provide the driver assist in applying the brakes.
Rotors and Pads: Analyzing Replacement Options
Although the industry has seen anti-lock braking systems (ABS) become standard equipment on modern imports, the majority of brake service still focuses on the replacement of brake pads and rotors. Rotor replacement, of course, has changed because new rotors have become a more cost-effective method of resolving pedal pulsation and brake shimmy problems associated with
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