EVAP Diagnostics
To understand how any EVAP system in a Honda or other vehicle works, you have to know how the EPA tests for evaporative emissions. The EPA tests these systems by putting a car in a sealed chamber. The vehicle is “hot soaked” to simulate the car being run, parked and allowed to cool. Sensitive sensors in the chamber detect the presence of fuel vapor.
Toyota Camry Tech Tip: ABS Noise, Warning Lamps And Code C1431
Some 2012-’13 model year Camry vehicles may exhibit a condition where ABS brake actuator pump motor noise is heard from the engine compartment with Brake ABS and/or TRAC warning lamp(s) illuminated and DTC C1431 stored.
TPMS: 2011 Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 doesn’t have a reset button underneath the dash or within the glove box, meaning technicians don’t have to worry about getting a TPMS relearn malfunction due to the vehicle’s ECU closed loop. This also means that in order to successfully service the RAV4’s TPMS, a shop needs a dedicated TPMS scan tool.
Servicing The Hyundai/Kia Dual Clutch Transmission (DTC)
Hyundai/Kia introduced a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) or Automatically Shifted Manual Transmission (ASMT) in the 2012 Hyundai Veloster. The dry, dual clutch transmission was first mated to the 1.6 L turbocharged engine and then with other four-cylinder engines found in various Hyundai and Kia models.
The Battery Electric Revolution
The term “electric vehicles” (EVs) has now evolved to “battery electric vehicles” (BEVs) to differentiate battery-powered electric from fuel cell-powered electric vehicles. Why BEVs? First, and from a manufacturer’s point of view, BEVS meet all federal and state vehicle emissions requirements without continually modifying complex engine designs, catalytic exhaust systems and engine management software.
Hyundai/Kia Theta Engine Maintenance Essentials
The Hyundai Theta engine appeared in 2006 Sonata models and is going strong to this day in naturally aspirated and turbocharged forms in various Hyundai and Kia applications. The one area of the engine that has been the source of more TSBs and tech tips has been the bottom end of the engine and lubrication system.
Toyota D-4S: Port Fuel Or Direct Fuel Injection? Why Not Both?
You may soon see a Toyota vehicle that has both direct fuel injection and port fuel injection. You will see port fuel injectors in the intake manifold and a direct injection fuel pump. Toyota calls this system the D-4S or Dynamic Force Engine and the earliest application was on the Lexus GS SUV with the V8. The D-4S system is not a “cold start” or “dousing” injector system, like that on V6 engines from the early to late 2000s.
Air Management Systems: Controlling Air From Throttle Body To Combustion Chamber
It is easy to manage fuel when compared to managing air. First, there is approximately 14 times more air than fuel in a running engine. Second, air reacts more to temperature and humidity than does fuel. Third, air can behave in strange ways under vacuum and pressure.
Brake Job: 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline
You might assume that the Honda Ridgeline shares a lot of the same components as the Pilot. Aside from the general proportions, the Ridgeline is a different vehicle made in a different plant. The brakes on the Ridgeline are robust and have very few problems with noise or pulsation. Where the service issues can be found are with the parking brake and hydraulics.
Hyundai Idle Stop And Go (ISG): Start/Stop Systems Are Here And Out Of Warranty
The Hyundai Idle Stop and Go (ISG) function is the automaker’s start/stop system that found its way onto some 2012 models. ISG automatically switches off the engine when the car is at a standstill and starts it again as soon as the brake pedal is released. A lot has to happen for the engine to utilize ISG. Specific conditions with the engine, transmission and brake system all have to be met for the ISG system to function.
Nissan Tech Tip: Permanent DTC (P-DTC) Information
Starting with 2010 Model Year, Nissan vehicles have been gradually incorporating a new type of DTC known as “Permanent DTC or P-DTC.” If a vehicle is equipped with P-DTCs, all emission-related DTCs will also set a P-DTC if the MIL is turned on.
Advanced Import Ride Control Diagnostics And Replacement
Inside any active, hydraulic or air ride shock or strut, there is a piston that travels up and down a tube. Wear can occur between the piston and tube, and, over a period of time, oil will pass between the piston and tube. If the suspension bottoms out, contact between the piston and the bottom of the tube could occur, damaging the piston and the valving.
