Tech Tip: Mercedes-Benz Cylinder Head Cover Leak
Field inspections of suspected cylinder head cover oil leaks have revealed that unnecessary resealing is being performed when the cylinder head cover is not the root cause of the leak. In cases of customer complaints of oil leakage, it is essential to determine the actual source. A proper remedy should be applied to avoid repeat repairs and unnecessary shop visits.
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 Preventive Maintenance
Import Specialist Bob Dowie takes a look at the Kia line of vehicles, focusing on common problems and maintenance items that will have them finding their way to your bays. Kia continues to offer a reliable, affordable vehicle lineup that provides import specialist techs with plenty of opportunities for maintenance and repair.
Volkswagen Tech Tip: Noise From Front End When Steering Wheel Is Turned
Vehicle owners may complain of a squeaking/creaking noise from the front of the vehicle while the steering wheel is fully 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.
BMW Electric Water Pump Replacement
We recently had a 2007 BMW Z4 with the N52 engine in the shop. When diagnosing a faulty electric water pump, the first thing that needs to be done is to verify if there are any water pump-related diagnostic codes. There’s a very good chance there will be some. I then like to perform a visual inspection, but don’t look for the water pump from the top of the engine. You’ll want to drop the lower panels, and you will see the pump on the lower right side of the engine.
3A Automotive, Phoenix, AZ: Revisiting A Maintenance Chronicle
We profiled 3A Automotive Service in our March issue of Maintenance Matters. The shop discovered there were some black holes in its approach to maintenance.
Can You Service Modern Batteries?
The construction of batteries has changed significantly from olden days. Battery issues are now even more difficult to diagnose. Here is what is different.
Replace Valve Stems at the First Signs of Corrosion
Be sure to replace any valve stems that appear to be corroded or severe tire damage can occur.
Searching For ‘Black Holes’: 3A Automotive, Phoenix, AZ
After charting sales for two weeks and thinking about the numbers, 3A owner Jimmy Alauria found what he called a “black hole” in their approach.