Flashing Signals / Reprogramming PCMs
You don’t have to be Microsoft A+ certified to flash reprogram automotive PCMs, but the process requires a certain amount of know-how as well as special tools and access to the latest OEM software upgrades (which are not free!). What’s more, it’s not a risk-free endeavor. Certain precautions must be undertaken before you begin, and
Internet Usage Extensive, Popular Among Independent Repair Facilities
According to the Automotive Service Association’s latest "How’s Your Business?" survey, 99 percent of ASA collision repair facilities and 91 percent of ASA mechanical shops access the Internet to communicate and retrieve business-related material.
Tech Tip: Convertible Mustang Vibration – Got MIG?
Customers may come to you after many frustrating attempts by other shops to get an irritating vibration out of their 1996-98 Ford Mustang convertibles equipped with a 3.8-Liter engine. The vibration or shake seems to occur while driving at a steady speed of approximately 62 mph on smooth roads. This problem may be due to the interaction between the body and the suspension.
Kia Tech Tip: TCM Logic Revision
This bulletin provides information related to a logic change in the Transmission Control Module (TCM) for 2001 Rios, and 1998 through 2001 Sephia and Spectra vehicles built after Oct. 18, 2000.
Standard Plus Club Recognized as Preferred Provider to Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper Customers
Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) announces its Standard Plus Club technical support program is recognized as a preferred provider to the service dealer customers of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance (Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper).
Snap-on Diagnostics Introduces Software Bundle 7.2
Without regular software upgrades, automotive shops just aren’t getting the most out of their diagnostic investments. That’s why Snap on created Software Bundle 7.2. No matter which diagnostic platform is used – MODIS, SOLUS or the cartridge-powered Scanner – Software Bundle 7.2 delivers the supercharged performance that shops need to win and keep repair customers.
Directions: The Evolving Story of Electric Vehicles
The latest chapter in the evolving story of electric vehicles (EV) begins with a tale of two very different models. One is downright sexy, with alluring aerodynamic lines and head-turning, sporty styling. The other is, well, downright cute — a spunky little thing that looks a bit like a colorful helmet on wheels. At first
Servicing Solutions: GM’s Durable Duramax Diesel
General Motors launched the Duramax Diesel 6.6L V8 engine in the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500HD and 3500 Series trucks with Allison automatic transmissions in 2001. The application expanded to the Chevrolet Kodiak and GMC Topkick medium-duty trucks for 2003, with 16,000-, 18,000- and 19,500-lb. gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR). According to its engineers,
ContiTech Recommends Regular Timing Belt Checks
When the weather changes – regardless of the season – it’s time to check the timing belts under your hood, says ContiTech’s Power Transmission Group. With that in mind, ContiTech suggests routinely checking timing belts will minimize breakdowns and save money.
Mitch Schneider: ‘But, Daddy … I Swear I Wasn’t Speeding’
It must have been quite a sight – me sitting behind the counter staring at the computer screen, looking at the digital images, shaking my head in disbelief. After all, it isn’t every day you see a fairly late-model vehicle with the entire bottom of the undercarriage torn away. But, then again, I knew it was going to be ugly when one of my techs stuck his head in the office door and quietly said, "Hey, boss! You’d better come out here and take a look at this … Oh, yeah, and bring the digital!"