Air Ride Replacement Options For Variety Of Makes And Models
All air ride systems can fail and require service. There are several repair paths you can go down to offer the best option for a customer’s needs and budget. Here is a forecast of current and future air ride vehicles and replacement options. Makes covered include: BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Hummer, Lexus, Toyota and more.
Air Ride: Compressor Diagnostics
On most modern vehicles, the compressor and air ride control unit are very intelligent components. Most communicate with the Body Control Module (BCM) on a high-speed serial data bus. These systems have malfunction indicator lights on the dash and require the use of a scan tool to diagnose the system.
German Automakers To Develop CO2 A/C Systems
In early March, Volkswagen announced that it is taking an important step towards sustainability and environmental protection by choosing CO2 as the future refrigerant for its air conditioning systems. At the Geneva International Motor Show, Volkswagen affirmed its entry into CO2 technology would be rolled out progressively over its entire vehicle fleet.
A/C Update: German Automakers To Develop CO2 A/C Systems
Geneva International Motor Show exhibitors Volkswagen, Daimler AG, Porsche, Audi and BMW agree to develop CO2 A/C systems for their vehicles.
Diagnostic Solutions: Ride Control System Protocol – Matching The Components To The Application
Import Specialist Contributor Gary Goms recalls his days of working as a technician for an off-road desert racing team and notes this lesson learned that holds true to this day: matching a shock absorber to its application.
Slow Death Of An Air Ride System
When an air ride system fails, it can fail in a big way. It is a rarity that just one component fails. It can be a cascade of failures that can lead to a huge repair bill. Make it a point to inspect the system before a health check turns into an autopsy.
Firestone Announces Air Command App For Android Smart Phones
Firestone Industrial Products Company, LLC introduces an Air Command Android app that will allow users to remotely adjust the amount of air in their vehicle’s Firestone air helper springs by turning their smart phone into the controller.
Selling the Complete Ride Control Job (Shocks & Struts)
A new strut or shock is only as good as the parts attached to it. These “required” components (notice I did not say add-ons) should be sold as part of any shock or strut replacement.
Kia Brake & Chassis Repairs
Import Specialist Bob Dowie advises that while the Kia suspension system will provide many problem-free miles, from a safety standpoint, it could be argued that the steering and suspension system on any car is the most critical. That’s why it’s so important that every car that goes on the lift should get a basic safety check.
Clean Diesel Surge Offers Diagnostic and Repair Opportunities for the Aftermarket
There’s a bright future for the latest generation of clean diesel cars and trucks, thanks to common rail high-pressure, direct-injection systems with sophisticated electronic controls that have transformed today’s diesels into clean-running, quiet and powerful power plants. As these vehicles come out of warranty, it will create new diagnostic and repair opportunities for the aftermarket.