Engine Design: A Changing Diagnostic Approach
Modern propulsion technology requires high-speed data processing systems. For that reason, our relearning process actually began when CAN bus electronic systems were introduced by Mercedes-Benz circa 1990.
Import Insights: Subaru (June 2016)
Subaru of America, Inc. announced a comprehensive update to the 2017 Forester, including revised styling, new driver-assist technology, more interior comfort, enhanced driving performance and better fuel economy.
Lexus: Flex Lock-Up Shudder
Some 2011 model year GS 350 and 2011-’12 model year IS 350/350C vehicles may exhibit an intermittent flex lock-up shudder when lightly accelerating between 25-50 mph (40-80 km/h). Follow the procedure in this bulletin to address this condition.
Mini Cooper: False ‘Brake Service’ Due Message
The yellow “Service Due” warning message lights up in the instrument cluster, even though the brake pad thickness is more than 4.2 mm (above the thickness at which the pad sensor intervenes). The calculated remaining service life for the brake pads (front and/or rear axle) from the CBS data does not match the actual brake pad thickness.
Brake Service Case Study: Nissan Frontier
Bob Dowie looks at some of the undercar issues he has faced with Nissan vehicles over the years and discusses how to deal with some common issues you may see with them.
Dealers vs. Shops: The Battle For Service Dollars
It seems that I get about two letters a week in the mail from local dealerships that are in hot pursuit of my seven-year-old Maxima. Signed by the general manager of the dealership, each letter claims a somewhat attractive offer for my vehicle, but with a disclaimer in fine print, of course. The letter goes on to say that during a limited-time sales opportunity, the dealership could offer me a great price on a new vehicle, if I were to upgrade my ride.
Copper-Free Brake Initiative Update
The desire for enhanced vehicle performance is often the driver of evolution in the automotive industry. But when a state-led charge to reduce water pollution caused, in part, by brake pad dust began to gain momentum in the first half of this decade, representatives from the brake manufacturing industry coordinated with representatives from the vehicle industry, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Environmental Council of the States (ECOS) to get ahead of the problem.
Installing Spark Plugs: Avoid Misfires
The potential for inadvertently creating a misfire is very real when installing new spark plugs. I say this because I’ve diagnosed many misfires created by greasy fingerprints, broken insulators and incorrect air gaps — all caused by poor installation procedures. But nothing is as simple as installing a spark plug, right?
Tech Tip: Mercedes-Benz Cylinder Head Cover Leak
Field inspections of suspected cylinder head cover oil leaks have revealed that unnecessary resealing is being performed when the cylinder head cover is not the root cause of the leak. In cases of customer complaints of oil leakage, it is essential to determine the actual source. A proper remedy should be applied to avoid repeat repairs and unnecessary shop visits.
A/C Service With The New R-1234yf Refrigerant
The most recent statistics show that 18 U.S. vehicles and 47 production lines are factory-equipped with R-1234yf, the new worldwide refrigerant that has entered the U.S. market. The statistics also show that in Europe, 83 production lines and 33 vehicles are already equipped with the new refrigerant. There are currently no Asian vehicles with R-1234yf, but Toyota has the equipment, so it will be coming soon.
Remote Diagnostics On Cars: The Future, or Future Headache?
When I talk to technicians and shop owners about “remote diagnostics,” I find that there are many different levels of understanding as to what that term means. It’s clear that for many, the perception is that remote diagnostics means the ability to read codes. Well, if that is all we are talking about, it is true that a number of cars can generate a health report that includes things like DTCs, mileage and oil life.
Gonzo: Communication Is Key To Knowledge
Are there things mechanics keep to themselves and not tell other mechanics? I hope not, but I’m sure that even doctors and lawyers have a few secrets they’re not sharing with each other. The big secret is that there really are no secrets. What it really comes down to is knowledge.
