TPMS Update: FORD Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Ford embraced Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) as early as the 2002 model year on the Explorer and Windstar. These systems can be can be direct or indirect. All 2007 models have TPMS standard. From 2006-2009, Ford used banded sensors that are mounted in the center of the rim. In 2010, Ford reverted to the valve stem mounted sensors. All the systems are straightforward and use common procedures for most models.
Giving Off Bad Vibes: Motor Mount Replacement Tips
Most motor mounts are relatively simple in design and consist only of metal attachment plates and large rubber insulator blocks. But, some vehicles have “hydraulic” or “hydro-mounts” with hollow chambers filled with glycol or hydraulic fluid.
Alignment & Suspension Specs: 2005-’10 Ford Mustang (Plus Shelby)
In 2005, Ford introduced a new Mustang with an all-new platform and clean-sheet design. While the formula of a live axle rear and MacPherson strut front end were the same from the previous model, Ford refined the design. These changes make for a vehicle that is easier to align and diagnose compared to the previous generation.
COATS Names Winners of Contest to Find Oldest Direct Drive Balancer
Hennessy Industries has announced the winners of “The Search for the Oldest COATS Direct Drive Balancer” contest. Jim and Abe Torro, co-owners of Orange Auto Center in Orange, CA, were named the grand-prize winners after entering their 30-year-old direct drive balancer into the contest. The brothers will receive a trip to Las Vegas and a new COATS 1250-3DV balancer.
Tech Feature: Mazda6 and Mazda3 Driveability Diagnostics and Electronic Throttle Control
Drive-by-wire throttle control systems are pretty much trouble-free but have to be taken into consideration as you perform routine service and diagnose problems, and it changes the way you service these cars when it comes to cleaning the throttle plates, advises Bob Dowie, import specialist contributor, who also covers electronic throttle control’s tie in with ABS and VSC systems.
Tech Tip: Jaguar Front End Creaks/Knocks on Bumps or Turns
A customer may report a concern of a creak or knocking noise coming from the front of the vehicle when driving over uneven ground or turning a corner. The noise may be emanating from the front left-hand side of the vehicle.
Uniformity in Uniforms
In Pittsburgh, a man awaits a trial for manslaughter. He is, or was at the time, a technician for a repair shop. He had been assigned inspect the brakes on a Dodge Caravan. The driver of the van had brought the vehicle to the shop for a brake inspection because the brakes “did not feel right.”
Tech Tip: Rotors Don’t Cause Most Rotor Problems
Troubleshooting a disc brake rotor problem can be tricky if you assume the rotor is the culprit. In many cases, the root of the problem is anything, but the rotor. The good thing is that, in most cases, the rotor itself can reveal where the trouble really lies. Here are some troubleshooting tips that will help you screen and identify other possible causes.
Alignment & Suspension Specs: GM Lambda Full-Sized SUVs
Lambda is General Motors’ full-size crossover SUV platform that is the foundation for the 2008-2010 Buick Enclave, 2009-2010 Chevrolet Traverse, 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia. It has been reported, Cadillac will receive a Lambda vehicle in 2012, which could possibly replace the current Escalade.
Tech Tip: Audi ABS Activates Upon Light Braking
ABS activates when braking lightly or control noises are heard from the ABS unit at low speed without brake application. This may be caused if an ABS control takes place without the flashing of the ESP lamp and, therefore, without ESP operation.