Nissan Tech Tip: Rattle Noise at Cold Engine Start
If you confirm that the valve lifters make a rattle/clatter noise for two to three seconds when the engine is started cold on vehicles with VG30E or VG33E engine built before Oct. 13, 2003, replace the valve lifters, P/N 13231-V5005 (quantity 12).
Volkswagen Tech Tip: Clutch Pedal Does Not Fully Return/Cruise Control Inoperative
On some VWs, the clutch pedal does not fully return to a stop and the cruise control (if equipped) will not function. The problem may be caused by the clutch pedal over the center spring dropping out of position.
Mazda Tech Tip: Hesitation/Surge or MIL on with DTSC P0102/P0103
The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may illuminate with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0102 and/or P0103 on any 1998-’99 Mazda B-Series 2.5L. There may be driveability concerns, such as hesitation and/or surge, during acceleration under normal driving conditions. This may be caused by an out-of-specification mass air flow (MAF) sensor.
Nissan Tech Tip: Solving Pathfinder Squeak/Creak Noise at Rear Shock
If a 1999.5-2001 Pathfinder exhibits a squeak/creak noise at the right-hand rear shock area while driving, a small stone, rock or pebble may have become lodged between the upper eyebolt of the right-hand rear shock and its mounting bracket.
Tech Tip: Chrysler Engine Mount Noise
I know the majority of you auto techs are extremely proficient at finding and repairing sources of strange and unusual noises. Although chasing these audible emissions can be time consuming and without a doubt aggravating, the customer’s concerns are usually valid and can often be of monumental importance to them.
Tech Tip: ‘Beemer’ Steamer – BMW Hose Leak
Without warning, our otherwise tranquil morning was interrupted by a horrendous screech of brakes, as a late-model, metallic blue BMW M3 slid into the service drive. Steam was billowing out from underneath the engine compartment.
Jaguar Tech Tip: Engine Noise? Don’t Worry About It
Rattling, knocking, thumping and squealing sounds are fine, as long as they’re coming from a haunted English castle. But nobody likes to hear any of those noises coming from under their "bonnet." With more foreign manufacturers building power plants using tighter tolerances, hydraulic valve lash adjusters and serpentine belts, noisy engines are becoming a thing of the past – or are they?
Subaru Tech Tip: Power Steering Groan/Vibration
A customer with a 2000-’02 Legacy sedan, wagon or Outback with a 2.5L engine may complain of an abnormal noise (groan) coming from the power steering pump and/or slight vibration in the steering wheel when turning at very low speeds.
Tech Tip: Toyota Avalon’s Clutch Won’t Engage
If the A/C clutch on a 1995-’99 Toyota Avalon 3.0L won’t engage and the A/C switch light is flashing, the A/C amplifier senses a difference in engine speed and A/C compressor speed because of a fault in the system. This causes the amplifier to shut off the compressor and flashes the A/C light.
Tech Tip: Revised Crankshaft Sensor for Hyundai Engines
Question: I’ve noticed different crankshaft sensors on 2.7L Hyundai engines. Is there a revised sensor, and if so, which one should I use? Answer: The AERA Technical Committee offers the following information regarding a revised crankshaft sensor for 2001-’02 Hyundai 2.7L engines.
Tech Tip: Voyager Basics – Loss of Speed Control
A simple malfunctioning vacuum valve on some 1996 to 2000 Plymouth Voyagers can result in a loss of more than 5 mph while climbing a grade with the speed control engaged. The actual cause of the problem could be a leaking check valve in the battery tray/vacuum reservoir assembly.
Mercedes-Benz Tech Tip: Engine Dies When Transmission is Shifted into Gear
You may encounter a Mercedes in which the engine dies when the transmission is shifted into gear or when parking. Damage code 27 205 47 is also present. The cause of the problem is moisture (corrosion) in the connector for the starter lockout switch/transmission wiring harness.