VIDEO: Using VIN And Plate Numbers For Quicker Service Information
Andrew Markel discusses VIN and plate numbers, and how using these two important pieces of information can help access service information and TSBs even faster. Sponsored by Mitchell1.
Why Springs Matter: More Than A Coil Of Steel, Springs Are The Foundation Of Stability
When a wheel reacts to a bump or body motion, the spring is compressed and then releases the energy. During each compression cycle, a little bit of life is taken out of the spring’s steel. It’s not the amount of travel that matters, but the frequency of the cycles.
Preventive Cooling System Service: Keeping P0128 Codes Away
Of the engine’s two vital fluid systems, lubrication and cooling, the cooling system might need more routine maintenance. If we don’t inspect and service the cooling system as required, the system might fail well before the next extended interval oil change is due. With that said, let’s explore a few ways to inspect cooling systems on extended maintenance interval vehicles.
Diagnosing V8 Engine Oil Leaks
You already know that there are plenty of BMWs with V8 engines on the road today, but you might be surprised that they can have issues with oil leaks. Inevitably, some of these will find their way to your shop in need of service, so here are some common items to be aware of when they arrive at your shop for repairs.
Volkswagen Tech Tip: DTC P0145 Software Update
DTC P0145 (Oxygen Sensor Circuit Bank 1-Sensor 3 Slow Response) is stored in the ECM. No other fault codes are present. The monitoring strategy that occurs between the rich-lean phases is too slow.
Cooling System Preventive Maintenance Service
Given the current range of extended maintenance intervals, it’s safe to say that your shop might see Grandma’s 2011 Volkswagen Jetta only when its oil life monitor indicates the need for an oil change.
BMW Steering Column Noises
A scraping noise may occur when the steering wheel is turned from left to right. One cause can be contact between the pinion shaft dust cover and the steering gear. It can best be located by by using a stethoscope or other listening device.
Fiat: Unable To Add Engine Oil
The customer may experience a condition where they are unable to add oil to the vehicle. This condition could be caused by the oil fill extension being blocked. Replacing the oil fill housing will correct this condition.
KIA Codes P0171, P0446, P0507 and P2187
Learn how to diagnose a too-lean emissions issue on a 2006 Kia Rio model.
Volkswagen: Squeak From Front End When Steering Wheel Is Turned
The ribs of the outer CV boot may contact one another when the steering wheel is fully turned. This has the potential to create a squeak or creak noise. The noise may be more prevalent in wet weather.
VW Service Opportunities And Repair Tips
VWs suffer various ailments as they age. We’ve tried to identify some pattern failures that may afflict certain models and engines more than others for this article. It’s important to note that some of these problems can be prevented by following VW’s service recommendations and using fluids, filters and replacement parts that meet VW specifications.
Lexus Tech Tip: Low Charging Voltage, Replaced Alternator And Instrument Cluster
When running tests according to repair information, the vehicle should run between 13.2-13.8 volts, but it is running 13.2 volts currently. With the car idling and the A/C on, the voltage drops to 11.5 volts.