Diagnostic Solutions: Profitable Radiator Service…Targeted Troubleshooting Procedures Are a Must
Unlike their soldered-brass predecessors, today’s aluminum-core, plastic-tank radiators are not only environmentally friendly, they are lightweight, easy to service, less costly to produce, and very efficient at keeping modern, high-output engines operating at optimum temperature. Because of their affordability and because they can be inspected while removed for a timing belt replacement or other front-mounted
AC Update: Running A/C Diagnostic Tests Before Dash Surgery
I must have worked on Mercedes-Benz automobiles for 15 years before I ever replaced an evaporator. Through the 1970s, we pulled many an evaporator out of 107 and 116 chassis models to repair a poorly designed interior drainage system. The early models had little flappers on two interior tubes that carried the condensation to a
Subaru Tech Tip: Harsh AWD Engagement/Code 45 Set
If you encounter a TCU Code 45 (intake manifold pressure signal) on any 1999-2002 4EAT Subaru vehicle, and have confirmed the wiring and connectors as outlined in the appropriate service manual, it will be necessary to replace the TCU with one listed in TSB 16-66-02.
BMW Tech Tip: Hard Shifts/Leak at Torque Converter Seal
BMW owners may complain of difficult shifting. An inspection performed by a trained technician may also uncover noise coming from the transmission oil pump or a transmission fluid leak from the radial seal on torque converter. Refer to the following tech tip for helpful service pointers.
Tech Update: Good Vibrations
Suspension Vibrations Could Have Your Customers Singing The Blues The song “Good Vibrations” by the Beach Boys may have been a big hit in its day, but there’s no such thing as good vibrations or noise when it comes to a customer’s vehicle. Vibrations are annoying and may be a warning signal that something’s amiss.
Kia Maintenance & Service Solutions
MASTER CYLINDER DIAGNOSIS Easy Fixes For Elusive Intermittent Problems While Kia offers a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, well-documented maintenance is an important part of keeping that warranty valid. With regular maintenance required at 30,000 miles and timing belts at 60,000 miles, owners will be looking for quality service. Rather than delve into the service nuts and
Tech Feature: Solving Intermittent Electrical Problems
Intermittent electrical faults are the bane of the auto repair business. If an electrical component has failed, or there is an open or a short in a circuit, you can usually find it fairly quickly because it isn’t hiding from you. It’s a persistent fault that can be isolated by a systematic process of elimination.
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Diagnosing Rodent Damage
Of all the technical innovations of the past century, the plastic-insulated copper wire is one of the most dependable components found in the modern automobile. Sure, this summer I had three different cases of the copper wire actually being broken inside the plastic insulation. In the first two instances, I had the intake air temperature
2006 Volkswagen GTI – All the Essentials of the Original Hot Hatchback and More
With the 2006 all-new GTI, Volkswagen is offering the fifth generation, or complete redesign, of this historic model. The "Mark 5" edition, as it is referred to by Volkswagen internally and by true GTI enthusiasts, continues the automaker’s reputation of providing affordable German engineering with distinct European styling and high-value equipment levels.
Visteon A/C Tech Bulletin: Prevent Repeat Compressor Problems by Performing a Complete Repair
Automotive service shops often can avoid repeat repairs of air conditioning (A/C) compressors by replacing the compressor, condenser and other affected parts during the initial service occasion, according to Visteon Corporation, a manufacturer of original equipment-quality replacement A/C components.