Tech Tip: Toyota Prius Master/Hybrid MIL On/DTC P3125
Under certain driving conditions, some 2001-’02 Prius vehicles may exhibit a Master, Hybrid and MIL Warning Light "on" condition where only DTC P3125, information code 287, has set in the Hybrid Vehicle Control Unit (HV ECU). Use the following procedure to identify whether the HV ECU or inverter/converter assembly should be replaced ….
Tech Tip: 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid Safety Precautions
As vehicle manufacturers strive to meet or exceed fuel economy standards, alternative vehicle designs incorporating new materials and systems will be produced to accommodate consumer demand. One such vehicle that may roll into your repair facility is the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid. Questions will arise when this vehicle arrives ….
Diagnostic Solutions: Rediscovering Oxygen Sensors
If you’re like me, you more often than not find a correct diagnostic direction by going back to what trainers are fond of calling “The Basics.” I capitalized “The Basics” because they are the foundation upon which all of us should be building our diagnostic strategies. The Basics were brought to mind recently when I
COP Connection: Investigating Common Coil-on Plug Misfires
For a number of reasons, the trend of modern engine management technology is leaning toward using coil-on-plug (COP) ignition systems. One reason is that COP ignitions are very compact and are very adaptable to individual cylinder tuning. With the exception of a few designs that incorporate a driver or “module” into the COP assembly itself,
Carley’s Corner: Future Shock
Back in the 1970s when I was an impressionable young college kid, I read a book called Future Shock by Alvin Toffler (it was required reading for an Anthropology class). The book accurately predicted many of the changes we are experiencing today. Essentially, Future Shock is “too much change in too short a period of
Electrical System Tools and Equipment
Neutrons, Electrons, Klingons? As today’s cars and systems have gotten more and more complicated, so have the tools and equipment needed to work on those cars. The professional technician is expected to be able to understand electrical theory, electronics, physics, as well as understand and interpret readings from complex electrical test equipment.
News: Remember the Mac Tools Tool Fair!
San Antonio, TX — Just steps away from The Alamo, more than 800 Mac Tools distributors and 150 vendors convened for the 2009 Mac Tools Tool Fair Jan. 15-18. This year’s tool fair featured Mac Tools’ 2009 theme of “The Pride and The Promise” and a supporting message of a five-point pledge — a pledge
Top 5 Tools: Stan Schwartz, The Outfit Auto Repair
Stan Schwartz The Outfit Auto Repair Sacramento, CA Actron Elite Auto Scanner Pro — Has saved me a lot of time. Actron Pocket Thermometer — Saves time. I always keep it in my pocket. Mac Long-Handle 3/8” Drive Ratchet — The first and only ratchet I use. Solar 500 Battery Charger
Top 5 Tools: Randy Chapin, Randy’s Automotive
Randy Chapin, owner Randy’s Automotive Colchester, VT Snap-on Ratchet Wrenches Mac Tools Code Reader for OBD II Mac Tools Clutch Fan Tool Snap-on Drop Light (Long Tube) Snap-on Battery Impact Wrench
80% of Vehicles Need Service and Parts, Reports Car Care Council
Results of vehicle check-up events at community car care events across the country in April and October 2008 revealed that 80 percent of vehicles need service or parts, underscoring the huge untapped DIY and DIFM sales opportunities for the automotive aftermarket, the Car Care Council reported recently. The unsatisfactory condition of vehicles also reinforces the ….