Tech Tip: Fix for a Creaky Cadillac CTS Suspension
Some Cadillac 2003-2006 CTS owners may comment on a squeak or creak-type noise coming from the front of the vehicle. This noise typically occurs while braking or during slow turns, such as parking lot maneuvers. The cause of this noise may be due to a worn rear bushing on the front lower control arm rubbing against its outer rate washer. Installing a front lower control arm rear bushing spacer, as described in this Tech Tip, may correct the situation.
Tech Tip: Installing Timing Belt Covers with Guides for 2001 Hyundai Sonata, Santa Fe
Some 2001 Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe vehicles may experience rough running, rough idle, lack of power at low rpm, or
the check engine light on. This may be caused by the exhaust camshaft coming out of time, which can be fixed by installing a new timing belt cover.
Tech Tip: New Aftermarket Automotive Belts and Hoses Last Longer
pylene diene monomer), a synthetic rubber that is far more durable, heat-resistant and wear-resistant than Neoprene. This means serpentine belts and hoses made of EPDM may last up to 100,000 miles or more before they have to be replaced. But that doesn’t mean they will last forever.
Tech Feature: Eliminating the Con-‘Fusion’ of Servicing Ford’s Mid-Size Vehicles
Nestled into the marketing space between the Focus and the Taurus/Five Hundred is the Ford Fusion. The Fusion came with a choice of four-cylinder and six-cylinder Duratec powerplants. The inline four-cylinder Duratec 23 is a 2.3L 16-valve DOHC engine.
Tech Tip: Solving Lower Ball Joint Removal and Installation Issues
When installing a replacement ball joint in these applications, technicians may note that the new ball joint may not fit tight in the opening of the lower control arm.
Tech Feature: Servicing Ford’s 3.0L Engine
The 3.0L Duratec V6 was introduced in 1996 to replace the aging 3.8L V6 in the Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable. Unlike its conventional pushrod predecessor, the 3.0L V6 has dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder and an aluminum block with cast-iron cylinder liners.
Tech Feature: Mazda Driveability Diagnostics and Check Engine Light Complaints
From a torn air intake hose to ignition system concerns, Bob Dowie tackles driveability issues as well as some of the more common ailments that will bring Mazda vehicles into your bays with a check engine lamp complaint.
Tech Tip: Taking Advantage of an On-Car Lathe
Well-maintained bench and on-car lathes can both do an excellent job of machining rotors. However, according to advice from the new Bendix Answerman, Chuck Kennedy, knowing when and how to use an on-car lathe can help eliminate wasted hours and extra work while also providing more accuracy and a better finish ….
Tech Tip: Steering Position and Yaw
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) program uses the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) to maintain vehicle stability in a cornering maneuver. The ESC program requires the communication between the Engine Control Module (ECM) and ABS controller. This communication takes place on the Controlled Area Network (CAN) buss of the vehicle. The program uses input from the following sensors: steering wheel position, throttle pedal position, throttle position, engine speed, brake switch, wheel speed, yaw and ….
Tech Tip: Drivetrain Noises and Wheel Bearing Replacement
One of the toughest challenges we face as import specialist techs is noise complaints. These aren’t necessarily difficult from the technical or nuts and bolts perspective as much as from the diagnostic process.