MINI Tech Tip: Engine Vibrations Or Noise
The vibration damper rubber insulator located between the drive belt pulley and its center hub has either partly or fully separated (torn). The separation will allow the two components to move independently from each other. The separation will cause vibrations and or noises from the engine compartment.
Volkswagen Tech Tip: AdBlue Warning Due To Leak At Reductant Injector
On models with the diesel engine, the AdBlue warning might be illuminated and code P20E8 for reductant pressure too low might be stored in the ECM.
Top 10 Changes To Stop/Start Vehicles
A vehicle with a stop/start system is coming to your bays or might already be there. These systems can improve fuel economy by 5-12% depending on the driving habits of the customer. For your shop, it is essential to understand what is different on these vehicles and how it might change your diagnostic approach.
Making The Quick Stop: Getting Ready For Active Braking Services
Today, no matter how far our mental faculties might wander, we now have automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems constantly searching our driving lanes for slower-moving vehicles or motionless objects.
Editor’s Notebook: The Next Move Is Yours
Our crack research team at Babcox Media recently completed an annual readership study of shops who subscribe to ImportCar magazine. More than half of our readers say there is a desperate need for qualified help, yet nearly two-thirds say they don’t do anything about it.
Mazda Tech Tip: Whining Noise From Automatic Transaxle
Some customers may complain of a whining noise from the automatic transaxle when driving at 10 mph and above. The noise depends on the vehicle’s speed (the more speed, the more noise). The noise also occurs with all types of driving (acceleration, deceleration and steady speed).
What Are Bushings Made Of?
Most modern bushings augment the geometry of the suspension. As the vehicle loads the suspension, movement in the bushings can change the toe, camber and caster so that the vehicle is more stable under braking, cornering and acceleration.
Brakes: Science Friction
For the brakes to function, the rotors and pads have to wear. Even a brake rotor’s metallurgy can determine how a pad wears. For import nameplate vehicles, the chemistry of the pads is part of the equation that determines how the brakes feel and perform.
Inspecting Serpentine Drive Belts
A serpentine belt can look good to the naked eye. But, to the ear, odometer and measuring tools, it could be another story. When you are looking at the belt and the pulleys on which it rides, it is critical to use all of your senses.
Nissan Suspensions: Inspection And Restoration
It is not uncommon to see the Nissan V6 or four-cylinder engine in a Maxima, Altima or Sentra go more than 300,000 miles without a major issue – the same is true for the chassis. But depending on roads it traveled, the suspension needs just as much or more attention when compared to the engine.
Selling TPMS At The Front Counter
Customers have a lot of questions when it comes to TPMS. Keep reading for some solid answers to help you help them at the front counter.
Volkswagen HVAC Logic: How Automatic Temperature Control Keeps Customers Comfortable
Volkswagen HVAC systems have come a long way in the past 15 years. While the basics of heating and cooling may be the same, the controllers and sensors have improved dramatically. No longer does a driver have to worry about dealing with fogged-up windows or bad smells driving behind a semi-truck.
