Pulling Codes – A Hybrid Story: The Story Of P1A10
This article documents the code P1A10-Hybrid Powertrain Control Module-Battery Disabled found on a 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid 2.3L. Code P1A10 involves a possible interlock problem with the system. Our subject vehicle was a former police vehicle purchased at an auction – for $1! – in very poor condition. It does not run or power up, and both cluster displays are blank.
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Changes In Our Diagnostic Outlook
Everybody likes to read about a Diagnostic Dilemma that has been solved to everybody’s satisfaction. But this month I have an unsolved Diagnostic Dilemma that is more about customers than cars. This particular dilemma involves a 2005 Ford Crown Victoria with headlamps that randomly lose power during night driving.
Gonzo’s Toolbox: Taking A Leap Of Faith When Relying On Your Knowledge And Expertise Is The Best Diagnostic Plan
Dealing with unforeseen problems ends up in a never-ending stumbling block of false leads, misguided diagnostics, or, for the lack of better term, a typical “snafu.” There are a lot of situations when the tech just has to trust his own judgment and go with what seems right, rather than what all the information is suggesting. Call it a gut instinct, dumb luck or maybe a professional guess, but that may be all you have to go on.
Tech Tip: Mazda Air Intake Selector Mode Switch Failure
Some Mazda6 vehicles may experience an air selector mode switch that will not switch into recirculation mode. This condition may be caused by a lack of continuity in the mode switch.
Tech Tip: Dodge Has A P2767 Code With Transmission In Limp In Mode
If you encounter a Dodge with a P2767 trouble code set, check the wiring between the transmission and the transmission control module. Make sure the #2 signal wire is not open, shorted to ground, or shorted to any other circuit. If the wiring checks OK, raise all four wheels off the ground, start the vehicle and place the shifter in drive. While lab scope testing the #2 signal wire, obtain second gear. When the transmission is in second gear, there should be a 5-volt square wave pattern being produced by the #2 sensor. If not, replace the sensor.
Tech Feature: Hall Effect Sensor Diagnostics
Hall effect crankshaft position (CKP) and camshaft position (CMP) sensors are critical components of an engine management system. The inputs they provide enable the powertrain control module (PCM) to determine engine speed and position including where a given cylinder is within the four-stroke cycle.
A/C Update: Compressor Inspection May Lead To Worn Clutch Problem
When a customer comes in complaining that their vehicle’s A/C system is working improperly, the problem can stem from a number of things. And the best way to begin any A/C repair is with a thorough inspection of the components. After checking components like the belts, the hoses and the related connections, the next step is a visual inspection of the A/C compressor.
Pulling Codes: The Importance Of Communication – No Code Analysis
For this month’s Pulling Codes case, we will attempt to provide a plan of attack for communication issues on General Motors products with the Class 2 Protocol. Our diagnostic journey begins with a 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe. This vehicle was tested at the EPA test facility in our area and it was determined that there is no communication with the PCM.
Tech Tip: Don’t ‘Blow By’ PCV Inspections
Most emission control parts, like the PCV valve, require little if any scheduled maintenance, but replacement may be necessary if the Check Engine light is on, the vehicle has failed an emissions test or is experiencing a driveability problem. Other emission control components include the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve, the evaporative emission control system (EVAP) vapor canister and purge valves, the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors and all of the engine’s other engine management sensors.
‘Exploring’ Service Needs On The Ford 4.0L V6 Engine
Rated at a rather anemic 210 horsepower, the 4.0L SOHC V6 is not exactly a high output engine. It also has an unusual overhead cam drive setup. Unlike most other OHC V6 and V8 engines that drive both overhead cams directly from the crankshaft with a belt or chain, this engine has an intermediate jackshaft in the middle of the block where a pushrod cam would normally be located.
A/C Update – Are Your Techs ‘Overcharging?’
In the world of public opinion, if you were asked if your technicians were overcharging your customers, you might interpret that as an issue pertaining to the customer’s repair bill. However, in the world of mobile air conditioning service, we’re referring to the problem of some vehicle A/C systems being (unknowingly) charged with too much refrigerant.
Diagnostic Solutions: Hubs/Bearings, CV Shafts & U-Joints
Thanks to advanced technology, modern vehicles operate with fewer noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) complaints than ever before. Consequently, when a noise, vibration or harshness issue arises, it’s most likely to be caused by worn drivetrain components like universal joints, constant velocity (CV) joints or wheel bearing hub assemblies. In any case, NVH complaints can often be the most challenging to diagnose when a tech or service writer can’t duplicate the exact driving conditions under which they occur.