Tech Tip: VW’s Check Engine Light is On with Fault Code P0411
When diagnosing various VW and Audi vehicles, the Check Engine Light (MIL) is on and fault code P0411 (16795) is stored in the fault memory.
Tech Tip: Understanding Spark Plug Heat Range
Finding just the right spark plugs for a modified engine is a little more involved than looking in a catalog for make and model. Depending on the engine modifications you’ve made, you’ll need to take a few extra factors into consideration before settling on the right spark plugs. These factors include spark plug seat design, thread length and diameter, and reach.
Wrangling in Jeep Spark Timing Dilemmas
Every once in a while I get a Diagnostic Dilemma that takes me back to the basics of how modern engine management systems work. This month’s happened to be a 1992 Jeep Wrangler equipped with the 4.0L engine and manual transmission. Of course, a vehicle of this vintage and configuration has to be about as basic as modern technology can get, right? Well, there are always exceptions.
Tech Feature: Courage Under Misfire
Generally, when a customer brings a vehicle into a shop that has a misfire concern, they will describe it as bucking, jerking or loss of power. They also may describe it, depending on the cause, as a jerking when they take off from a start, but smoothes out once the vehicle gets moving. They may tell you the check engine light has been flashing.
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.
Jimmie Johnson Becomes First-Ever 5-Time Consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Driving Bosch-Powered Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet
In the closest contest in NASCAR “Race for the Chase” history, Jimmie Johnson became the NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion for an unprecedented fifth consecutive year, driving his Bosch-powered Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet.
10 Lucky Winners Receive Once-in-a-Lifetime Trip in the NAPA Belden ‘Take the Lead’ Sweepstakes
Courtesy of NAPA Belden and the “Take the Lead” sweepstakes, 10 lucky winners and their guests recently went on a two-day, once-in-a-lifetime trip to experience NAPA racing firsthand with exclusive access to Martin Truex Jr. and Michael Waltrip, as well as the Richard Petty Driving Experience at the speedway in Charlotte.
Bosch ‘Light ‘Em Up!’ Spark Plug Campaign Meant to Dazzle Enthusiasts ‘Passionate’ about Their Cars
Bosch has launched an exciting, multimedia “Light ‘Em Up!” spark plug campaign intended to generate and sustain enthusiastic “buzz” about Bosch spark plugs, and demonstrate to motorists that “Bosch is the right plug for me.”
Tech Feature: Detecting Misfires in OBD II Engines
With OBD II, there’s no missing misfires. Most engine control systems with OBD II monitor the speed of the crankshaft between cylinder firings to detect misfires. The powertrain control module (PCM) notes the relative position of the crankshaft via the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) each time a trigger pulse is sent to the ignition system.
Bosch ‘Light ‘Em Up!’ Spark Plug Rebate Rewards Installing, Tuning Up with Premium Bosch Spark Plugs
Is it time for new spark plugs? A properly tuned vehicle runs more efficiently, performs better and saves money at the gas pump.
Tech Feature: Troubleshooting BMW’s Condition Based Service System
BMW’s “Condition Based Service” (CBS) system monitors various maintenance items on the vehicle, and alerts the motorist when service is needed. But even this maintenance alert system can require maintenance itself.
Tech Feature: Getting The Most Data From Your Scan Tool
It’s more than likely that many technicians use their scan tools as diagnostic trouble code (DTC) readers rather than as the analytical and testing tools that they really are.