Foreign Affairs: Getting Nissan Engines Back to Peak Performance
/Articles/06_01_2007/60754gif_00000014067.gif” width=”156″ height=”146″ alt=”” border=”0″ align=”right” /> In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the common problems that affect engine performance. With on-board diagnostics (OBD), many of these problems will cause a check engine lamp (CEL) and store a code. With most of us becoming comfortable and proficient while working with OBD
Tech Tip: Brake Noise/Creak During Slow Speed Braking
Some customers may comment on a creak-type noise occurring when applying the brakes. It is usually heard only during slow speed brake maneuvers. If this condition exists, it should be able to be duplicated when the vehicle is not moving by depressing the brake and listening for the noise from the wheel-well/caliper area.
Tech Tip: Understanding Vehicle Electrical Systems Begins and Ends with the Alternator
The alternator’s job has definitely become more complex during the past decade. Years ago, the typical import vehicle could live very happily with 40 amps of electrical current, which was enough to power the ignition, fuel and lighting systems. Today, that threshold is rapidly advancing toward 100 amps of current.
Tech Tip: Brake Shudder or Vibration on Dodge Durangos
Some owners of 2004-2005 Dodge Durango vehicles may complain of brake shudder or vibration. The following technical service bulletin involves installing brake pads, resurfacing the rotors and checking rotor runout.
Tech Tip: Understanding How Semi-Metallic Brake Pads Work
Semi-metallic disc friction materials are typically designed for hard-working, high-temperature brake applications. They are used for the front disc brakes on many larger SUVs and pickup trucks, as well as the front brakes on larger, heavier cars, performance cars and "severe-use" applications such as police cars, taxis and emergency vehicles.
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.
News Update: Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper Surpasses 2,500 Shops
Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper announced the enrollment of their 2,501st certified service center. “Our WDs realize this segment of the business is essential to their prosperity. They have embraced our certified service center program to help us surpass the 2,500 mark,” said John Wick, vice president of sales and training. “The hard work
40-Year-Old Volvo
Starring at an auto show near you, it’s “The 40-Year-Old Volvo,” a tale of a 1966 1800 that just keeps running, and running, and running. . . By Debbie Briggs, Contributing Writer When Irvin Gordon bought his sporty red 1966 Volvo 1800, or P1800 as it’s known in Europe, on June 30, 1966, he had
Raybestos Brand Brake Products Launches Spring Sizzle Promotion
The heat is being turned up for installers and counterpersons with the launch of Raybestos brand brake products Spring Sizzle Promotion. From May 1 through July 31, with the purchase of each Raybestos brand brake products promotional kit, installers will receive a Raybestos toolbox BBQ grill, a free goods certificate and a sweepstakes entry form.
Tech Tip: The Science of Friction Materials
Friction materials are made from a variety of ingredients. These include various types of fibers for reinforcement and heat management, fillers for friction control and wear resistance, other ingredients to suppress noise and resin to bind all of the other ingredients together.