Starter and Theft Deterrent System Diagnostics
The electric starter motor took the place of the hand crank a long time ago. Although, the actual starter motor has improved quite a bit over time, its function is still the same. Just like most of the systems in today’s cars, the simplicity of the basic functions of a circuit remains the same, but
Diagnosing Vehicle Signal and Chassis Ground
When it comes to electricity, there are two potential energy sources you have to keep in mind. One, being the positive side, and the other, the negative side. Just like a magnet, these two opposite forces react the same way. That is, two positives or two negatives will not meet, while a positive and a
Secondary Ignition: The Art of Spark
What is a coil? From the beginning of the internal combustion engine, several different ignition systems have been used to create a high-energy spark. The most popular system, and the one that’s in use today, is a step-up coil. A coil is nothing more than a transformer, and like any transformer, it has two separate
Oil-Related Engine Codes for VVT Engines
Variable valve timing is becoming a standard system on most late-model engines because it offers higher performance from a smaller displacement engine at higher rpms. Oil plays a larger role in VVT systems. They need engine oil not only for lubrication, but also to actuate the camshafts to change the profile of the lobes. Oil
Ford Reflash: Setting Up Your PC
You’ve just finished up a job on a Ford vehicle, and you’re about to try and start it up. However, it needs programmed first. You’ve decided to use a J2534 tool, but there are certain things you’ll need to consider before purchasing that subscription at www.motorcraftservice.com. Choosing a PC The PC you choose for reflashing
Working On Wipers
It’s right after a major snowstorm, and there’s ice and snow on everyone’s windshield. You’re at the shop waiting for the phone to ring. The phone leaps off the receiver and it’s Captain Chaos; he’s managed to find a second use for his wiper blades. Apparently, Captain Chaos was in too much of a hurry
Case Study: 1996 GMC 1500 with no temperature control
• No A/C, no vent control, no temperature control • A/C and recirculation buttons will not light up • All new components, including compressor and control head Cars with a little age on them can be temperamental when diagnosing what might seem at first to be an easy problem. This 1996 GMC had already gone
What’s a Battery?
The first documented battery that used two dissimilar metals with an electrolyte between them was invented in 1800. Known as the voltaic pile after its inventor, Volta, this early battery consisted of copper and zinc discs piled on top of each other, separated by a layer of cloth or heavy paper soaked in a
Pattern Failures of MAF and MAP Sensors
Pattern failures are those failures that happen over and over again — and the same applies to how customers describe these failures. Customers might unknowingly give you the answer to their problem without needing to open the hood. In this article, we will look both at the failures of these sensors and the actual customer
The Best of The Best: Tales From the 2014 Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo
I try to attend the Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo every year, take some classes, browse the Expo, and meet up with some old friends. Classes range from hybrid service, scope and scanner reading, diesel and gas engine driveability, to shop management. Some of the top instructors gather at this convention and put together some of the best classes I’ve ever attended.
Snap Test: MAF Sensor Diagnostics
You’d think a service light would be the first indicator of a mass air flow (MAF) sensor problem, but there are times a problem develops with the MAF and no service light comes on. Scott “Gonzo” Weaver explains how poor idle, loss of performance, sluggish performance and even stalling are all associated with a failing MAF sensor.
Don’t Judge A Job By Its Cover
It was a picture perfect day at the auto repair shop until two new jobs showed up at the same time. A nice, clean 2007 Ford F-350 4WD diesel with an ABS light on, and a really dilapidated 1997 KIA with charging system problems and no light on. You’ll never guess how these two stories end.