March 2019 Archives - Import Car
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.

Servicing R1234yf: Are You Ready?

R-1234yf, tabbed the replacement for R-134a, has been in service now for a few years on certain models of vehicles from FCA and GM to several European models. R-1234yf is installed on an estimated 35 million vehicles worldwide.

What Techs Will Have To Worry About With GF-6 Oils

Technicians and shops that perform oil changes in the future will need to pay extra close attention to what they’re putting in the vehicle. While we’re waiting for API’s newest GF-6 oil standard to be approved, we are discovering just what future oil service may look like for shops.

Ex’Splining’ New Wheel Bearing Designs

Better designs are needed to accommodate large diameter wheels, which apply a heavier bending movement on the hub’s flange. Also, many of today’s vehicles have twice the power compared to new models of just a decade ago. This extra power can cause stress on the splines and stub axle.

Active Ride Control: Diagnostics And Replacement Options

For a shock or strut to be active, it must be able to react to three critical streams of information. First, it must act on information from the ABS and stability control system. Second, it must measure body movement. Third, it must detect the extent and rate of suspension movement.

Technology Update: Artificial Intelligence

What is Artificial Intelligence? Simply put, it is the development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition and decision-making.

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.

Test, Bleed, Flush: How Can You Protect Your Customer’s Brake System?

Replacing brake fluid or “flushing” it can extend the life of hydraulic brake components, but when should brake fluid be replaced? For the past 30 years, OEMs, shops and tool manufacturers have struggled with that question.

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.

What Is The Value Of Routine Vehicle Maintenance?

The first step in keeping your customers’ vehicles in top-running condition is getting them in the mindset about the value of preventive maintenance, so that they take a proactive role in having you regularly maintain their vehicles, says Mary DellaValle, editor of ImportCar magazine.