Checking into Mode $06
Mode 06 is the actual system test data that OBD II looks at when it decides to set a pending code or a current fault code. If the test data is within the limits established by the vehicle manufacturer, the item gets a PASS and no codes are set. But if a value is out of range, OBD II flags it with a FAIL and keeps an eye on the component until the system monitor has run at least twice. Then, if the problem is still there, a DTC is set and the MIL light comes on.
Selling Service for Low-Maintenance Ignition Systems
ition system maintenance as long as it feels like it’s “running good.” In reality, spark plugs eventually develop high electrical resistance because the electrodes wear away. When this happens, the secondary ignition voltage will increase until the ignition coil, ignition cable, spark plug boot or spark plug develops a high-voltage leak. When a high-voltage leak
Now is the Time to Gear Up for MACS Convention
The Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) Worldwide, which will hold its 25th Anniversary Convention and Trade Show February 1-3 at the Las Vegas Hilton, is taking steps to protect its trade show exhibitors and the mobile A/C and engine cooling industry against counterfeiting and trademark infringement. As part of its new policy, MACS is asking
Shops that Evolve are Shops that Succeed
There’s plenty to be said about not being complacent. After all, complacency breeds mediocrity. And in today’s competitive service environment, where the name of the game is standing out amidst your competition – being at the forefront in your line of work will bring increased visibility and more customers to your shop. In striving for
The Ins and Outs of Diagnosing Battery, Charging and Starter Problems
You answer the phone and the voice on the other end says, “My car won’t start.” When temperatures drop, the no-start calls start pouring in. Cold weather increases the strain on the battery, starting and charging system and tends to bring out any weaknesses in these components. Cold weather thickens the oil and makes the
Getting the Industry Energized for a New Year
An event in early October excited environmentalists and proponents of new vehicle technology (myself included), when Shell Hydrogen opened the country’s first combined hydrogen/gasoline station in North America. Located in northeast Washington, D.C., the hydrogen dispenser at the Shell retail gasoline station will service a fleet of six fuel cell vehicles from General Motors Corp.,
Aftermarket Update: Lighting Problems Top Recent GM Recalls<
General Motors Corp. will recall nearly 1.7 million vehicles in North America, including nearly 1 million sport utility vehicles, to fix tail lights that could loosen and flicker. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, (NHTSA), GM said in early November it will recall 946,817 SUVs, which would include 2002 to 2004 model-year
Flash! Reprogramming Vehicle Computers
Typically, when someone brings up the subject of “flashing” you get two reactions. The technologically informed service professionals think about added revenue and service, while rowdier folks think about doing something that could land them in front of a judge. I think we can all agree that the first group is far better off, and
When it’s Time for a Rebuilt Engine Installation
I noticed the Toyota 4WD truck as soon as I turned into the parking lot on Monday morning. I knew the owner because we’d been servicing his vehicles for a number of years, and I was always impressed by how clean and straight the truck was for its age. It was parked kind of crooked,
Take the High Road
Did your choice for President win the election?
Peak Performance
As craftsmen dedicated to the profession of diagnosing, troubleshooting and repairing import vehicles, you know that it’s not so much what you do, but how well you do it, that elevates your shop to the top ranks of your field. Your high professional standards cultivate a loyal customer base, among which you’ve earned trust and
Toyota Chassis & Suspension
Toyota builds some of the most durable cars and trucks on the market. And, there are models for every segment of the population, from eco models that only exhaust drinkable water into the atmosphere, to large luxury models in the Lexus line. With that said, the fact is, there will still be components that can