Brake Rotors & Calipers: The When, Where, Why and How of Brake System Service and Component Replacement
Resurfacing or replacing brake rotors, and rebuilding or replacing brake calipers are two tasks that are often necessary when doing a brake job. These parts may not require much attention the first time the brakes are relined. But by the second or third brake job, it’s likely the vehicle will need rotors and calipers. Regardless
Update On CAN Diagnostics
Whether you like it or not, Controller Area Networks (CAN) have taken over. CAN technology has been steadily creeping into more and more new vehicles since it first appeared in 1992 on certain Mercedes-Benz models. Thanks to federal emissions rules, it is now required on all 2008 model year vehicles, and will be forevermore. What
West Coast Customs: The Secret Behind the Perfect Ride
West Coast Customs has made a worldwide name for themselves for producing the ultimate in customized and, at times, outrageous rides. Several television series, including Pimp My Ride and Street Customs, have highlighted the incredible artistry performed by this shop, and their reputation has even attracted the attention of legendary auto builder Carroll Shelby with whom they are now co-branding an exclusive line of his Mustang GTs ….
Keeping on Track with Steering Position Sensors
Cars just keep getting smarter all the time. Sensors are being used to monitor more and more functions, and to share information between vehicle systems that formerly were mute or didn’t communicate with one another. One such sensor is the steering position sensor. The sensor’s basic function is to monitor the driver’s steering inputs. This
Tech Feature: Gaining Access to Perimeter Anti-Theft Systems
It could use the same acronym, but is perimeter anti-theft the same as PATS? No, PATS, which stands for passive anti-theft systems, is a system that is designed to identify the key, and was discussed in the July 2007 issue of Underhood Service. Perimeter anti-theft is a system designed to identify unauthorized vehicle entry. There
Leak Detection: Tooling Up for Leak Detection
Leaks of one kind or another can always be a challenge to find if the leak isn’t obvious. Having the right tools to help you find leaks can save time, effort and reduce the risk of comebacks. So here are some common types of leaks and what kind of equipment you can use to find
Subaru Tech Tip: Diagnosing Idle Surges on Legacy Models
If you encounter a driveability concern such as idle surges or whistling, it may be caused by carbon buildup on the Idle Speed Control (ISC) valve. In these cases, it is not necessary to replace the ISC valve. Cleaning the ISC valve could correct the condition. To clean an ISC valve, perform the repair procedure ….
Rotary Sets a New Standard for Inground Lift Two-Stage Arms
Rotary Lift has redesigned its SmartLift inground lift’s standard two-stage arms to enable them to reach manufacturer-recommended pick-up points on a much wider range of vehicles, from low-profile sports cars to ….
Management: Unlocking Vehicle Key Codes for Independent Shops
There’s been some good news for the independent shops – the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) announced in February that the Secure Data Release Model (SDRM), which allows properly vetted technicians and security professionals to access automotive key codes, immobilizer PINs and ….
Directions: Unlocking Vehicle Key Codes for Independent Shops
There’s been some good news for the independent shops – the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) announced in February that the Secure Data Release Model (SDRM), which allows properly vetted technicians and security professionals to access automotive key codes, immobilizer PINs and other security-related information, has finally been released to the service repair industry.