CHASSIS & ALIGNMENT: SAI DIAGNOSTICS
The Steering Axis Inclination (SAI) angle has a direct effect on steering and handling because it causes the wheel spindle to angle downward slightly as the wheel is steered. Caster, which is the forward or rearward tilt of the steering axis as viewed from the side, does the same thing. The combination of SAI and
Mazda3i Vehicle Maintenance Checks
For this article, we’ll be looking at a 2006 Mazda3i. We won’t spend much time on performing routine maintenance services, as we should all be familiar with the nuts and bolts of the job. The most important thing to ask yourself is, why are you doing this service? Sure it’s important to get fresh fluids and
AWD Tire Rotation
Intuitively, one would think that an AWD vehicle would not require regular tire rotations because power is constantly directed to all tires; therefore, all of the tires would wear at the same rate. That is the thought lingering in the minds of some AWD vehicle owners. But when it comes down to it, tire rotation
Honda Civic Hybrid Service
Technical Editor Larry Carley discusses servicing the Honda Civic Hybrid, now in its third generation, with more than 200,000 cars sold to date since its introduction to the U.S. market in 2002 as a model year 2003, and highlights repair opportunities in diagnosing battery problems and various maintenance items.
Even AWD Vehicles Require Regular Tire Rotations
Intuitively, one would think an AWD vehicle would not require regular tire rotations because power is constantly directed to all tires; therefore, all of the tires would wear at the same rate. But when it comes down to it, tire rotation is the second most important maintenance item that can be done to maximize tire life, and this pertains to AWD vehicles, as well.
Tech Talk: ‘Baywatch’
Problem “models” that technicians see on a regular basis
Raybestos Brakes Help Kyle Busch Save the Day … Twice … at the Budweiser Shootout
Kyle Busch earned Joe Gibbs Racing and Raybestos Brakes & Chassis the team’s first season win at Saturday’s Budweiser Shootout … just beating the defending champion to the checkered flag. Busch had two incredible saves during the wild 75-lap sprint around the Daytona International Speedway. At 200 mph, Busch twice controlled his Toyota Camry with expert precision.
Alignment Specs: 2010-2012 Buick LaCrosse
The second-generation Buick LaCrosse is built upon the mid-size Epsilon II platform. The Epsilon II platform will be the bread-and-butter of GM’s mid-size product strategy with revamped Malibu, Impala and Cadillac XTS models being launched soon. The chassis of the LaCrosse sets the bar high in terms of alignment service.
Gabriel Announces the Availability of More Than 140 Premium ReadyMount Fully-Assembled SKUs
The Original Gabriel (Ride Control, LLC), recently announced the availability of more than 140 Gabriel premium ReadyMount SKUs. According to the company, this makes it one of the broadest pre-assembled strut lines available today, with coverage exceeding 105 million North American vehicles and 2,000 applications.
VW/Audi Maintenance that Drives Profits
To say that Volkswagen and Audi Group (sometimes mistakenly referred to as VAG) is a large part of the automotive scene worldwide is a gross understatement. From basic transportation to record-setting performance cars, VAG is a recognized leader in innovation and cutting-edge technology. A broad spectrum of models has put a huge number (millions) of VAG models on the road in North America, and these cars will provide many years of potential repair and service opportunities. Getting to know the various models, repair techniques and a few shortcuts will help make repairs more routine and profitable.