VIDEO: Can A Weak Battery Start An Engine But Cause Codes?
Andrew Markel and Donny Seyfer discuss what to look for when inspecting batteries. This video is sponsored by MAHLE.
Following The ‘Electronic Trail’ As A Means To Solve PCM-Related Problems
Leave your wrenches in your toolbox because in this month’s Diagnostic Solutions, we’re going to explore how to diagnose many common powertrain control module (PCM)-related driveability and electrical problems by following what I call The Electronic Trail.
Acura Driveability Issues
Import Specialist Bob Dowie looks at a 2006 Acura MDX that belongs to one of his shop’s long-time customers. This well-maintained, high-mileage vehicle has treated its owner well over the years, but it was getting older and with 150,000 miles on the odometer, it was causing some concern.
Kia Driveability Diagnostics: Chasing Intermittent Gremlins
Our initial inspection had us looking for codes with an enhanced scanner in the hope we’d find a code that may give us a hint on where to start with this one. We found no codes, but we just didn’t take off the scanner and go back to scratching our heads. One of the things I’m always telling my techs is to use the information that the scanner offers when diagnosing a driveability issue. Even if there are no codes present, the data list will give you a good real-time look at what’s happening with the computer-controlled systems.
Hyundai Fuel System, Emissions Diagnostics
Hyundai has done a good job of improving its offerings over the years from both an aesthetic and mechanical viewpoint. Complemented by a strong warranty and good value, the carmaker has been able to increase its market share year over year. If you aren’t seeing these cars in your bay, it’s only a matter of
Nissan Diagnostics: Check Engine Light And Misfire Issues
The late-model Nissans have proven to be quite reliable when it comes to serial-type problems that would get them to your bay with check engine lamp issues. Nissan has done a good job of addressing some of the problems we’ve looked at in the past. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be seeing Nissans looking for attention, and that spells service opportunities for you.
Secret Diagnostic Trick: Hint? You Are Doing it Right Now
I was fortunate to have been raised in my father’s auto shop. From the early age of 11, I could be found performing various tasks around the shop from cleaning to observing and helping the technicians whenever an opportunity would arise. I now have my own one-man auto repair facility where I am the only person involved with the repair process of the vehicle. This mandates me making the most efficient use of my time. So, over the next several articles, it is my plan to share with you some of my time-saving diagnostic strategies.
Mazda Feature: Driveability And Check Engine Light Diagnostics
Import Specialist Bob Dowie takes a look at some of the more common ailments that will bring your Mazda customers into your service bay with a check engine light complaint, as he covers common DTCs, stalling and ignition issues and new technology.
Audi Tech Tip: MIL On With P1545, P0121, P0123, P0221 Or P0222 Stored In ECM
The MIL is on, with a number of incident memory entries with regard to the throttle valve are stored in the ECM. In most cases, the entries are sporadic. This may be the result of contact resistance in the ECM wiring – throttle valve.
Tech Tip: Nissan Xterra Hesitates Upon Acceleration
The technician connected a scan tool and found code P0102 – Mass or Volume Air Flow “A” Circuit Low. He then performed an inspection of the mass airflow (MAF) sensor and related wiring harness, but found no obvious faults.
Pulling Codes: A Mercedes-Benz Story – A P0300 Analysis Using Exhaust Waveforms
This article will document the P0300 code for a 1996 Mercedes-Benz. A single cylinder misfire has occurred, and the technician decides to clear the code in my presence. I advised that it is a good strategy to maintain the code information for review. It’s clear that misfire activity can be challenging on some ignition systems, and I’ve found through my research that all of the car manufacturers appear to run their monitors in a similar fashion, but it’s still wise to review their service information for the differences and details of their systems.
PCM Diagnostics Case Study: No-Code Misfire Diagnosis On A 1998 Toyota 4Runner
When doing mobile diagnostic work for other shops, contributing writer Gary Goms usually sees more than his share of random no-code engine performance complaints. In the following case study, the customer of a client shop complained about an intermittent rough idle on his well-maintained 1998 Toyota 4Runner, but only when it was driven in hot weather. The client shop couldn’t duplicate the complaint, no matter how long the engine ran. Of course, the lack of DTCs didn’t help the diagnostic process.