Honda Tech Feature: Eliminating Brake Comebacks
The advent of ABS, and its integration into traction control and vehicle stability assist, make good work habits when servicing the brake
Engine Maintenance: OBD II Diagnostics, Misfire Codes, Fuel Trim Faults, Driveability and More
As automotive electronics diagnostics continues to evolve, so do the tools that are need to diagnose and repair today’s complex engine and electronics systems. This lineup will arm you will some diagnostic tips and give you some invaluable service advantages on Porsche, BMW, Hyundai and Mazda models.
Kia Preventive Maintenance: Chassis, Engine & Brake Repairs
More Kias on the road means more repair and maintenance opportunities for the import car specialist, so don’t let them pass you by. In this article, Bob Dowie focuses on the most common problems and maintenance items that have them finding their way into your bays – like check engine light, brake and chassis repairs.
Signals of a Recovering Economy . . .
It’s been said that the economic recession largely bottomed in the spring and its long-awaited end will occur later this year. A sign that some analysts say signals the start of an economic recovery for the second half of 2009 is that the U.S. index of leading economic indicators has risen for three straight months.
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: Cartridge Wheel Bearing Replacement
While wheel bearing noise is one of the toughest problems for the customer to describe, it’s not unusual for it to come on so gradually that the customer may not even notice it until you mention it after an unrelated road test. Many times, the customer complaint will send you down the wrong path if you let it. We’ve heard complaints from exhaust leaks, to tire balance, to “it just doesn’t sound right,” that have ended up being bad wheel bearings.
Tech Tip: Honda Engine Service Essentials
While engine-related complaints aren’t common on Honda’s line of vehicles, problems may still arise from time to time. Import Specialist Contributor Bob Dowie walks you through head gasket repair, from diagnosis to estimating the job to gasket replacement, and also discusses the intricacies of timing belt replacement ….
Hanging Tough In A Rough Economy
ImportCar Advisory Board Says To ‘Focus On The Customer’ This column continues the discussion we had last month with ImportCar Advisory Board members who shared their business projections and expectations for 2009. Here, they take that commentary a step further to discuss the strategies they’re employing to stay competitive, gain market share and win new
Tech Feature: Kia Brake Service Essentials
Kia Motors has found its place in the market by offering a good, dependable car at a reasonable price point. With a strong dealer network and model line, there’s no reason to think they won’t enjoy continued consumer support. That’s good news for import shops – these are good cars that should be a welcomed sight in the bays of any shop. Kia provides strong support for the aftermarket shop as evidenced by the ….
The Aftermarket & The Economy
ImportCar Advisory Board Shares Thoughts & Projections Last month, we discussed the state of the economy with the ImportCar Advisory Board, providing the results of one of several questions below. Look for more input from the ImportCar Advisory Board in future issues, as they share best practices and provide insight on how to best get