Auto Diagnostics and Codes
VIDEO: Finding Torque Specifications For Fasteners

All fasteners on a vehicle require a specific torque to prevent damage to components, or the fasteners themselves. Andrew Markel explains how to find torque specifications. Sponsored by ProDemand from Mitchell1.

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VIDEO: Reliable Sources For Repair Information

Adam Redling discusses the most reliable sources for repair information, including TSBs, wiring diagrams, and first-hand information. Sponsored by ProDemand from Mitchell1.

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VIDEO: Relearning and Recalibrating Common Systems

Andrew Markel shows how a few common systems on late model vehicles can be relearned or recalibrated. Sponsored by ProDemand from Mitchell1.

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Power Steering: To Flush Or Not To Flush

Whenever a technician is performing a repair on a power steering system component, the question is always whether there is a need to flush the entire system. It takes a bit longer and costs a few dollars, but a thorough flush of the power steering system is key to a successful repair.

AAE Power Steering Pump
2010 Jeep Wrangler: Transmission Stuck In Second Gear

The 2010 Wrangler’s transmission solenoids are powered through its totally integrated power module (TIPM), which is a fuse and relay box with a logic board that controls most body electrical functions.

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Chevy S-10 Truck: Slow Acceleration When Cold

This problem was referred to me by my local transmission shop. The elderly owner’s complaint was that the S-10 “accelerated kind of slow when cold.” Further questioning revealed that, after the transmission warmed up and the ignition was cycled off/on, the S-10 would accelerate normally.

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Fuel Injector Circuit Waveforms

The electric fuel injector has been around for more than 50 years. The principles of operation are simple. An electromagnetic coil moves a pintle in a chamber that has pressurized fuel on one side and a nozzle on the other. The coil is typically energized by a driver pulling the circuit to ground. As the coil is saturated by energy, the pintle moves upwards against a spring. This allows fuel to be injected into the engine.

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Subaru Forester Active Valve Lift System

Many thought the 2007 Subaru Forester had variable valve timing, even though it does not. Others were not aware of the ALVS that Subaru brought out in 2006. With that in mind, I’d like to share some insights into this very clever engine management strategy.

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OBD1 Diagnostic Challenges

The real challenge is staying current, but still having a working knowledge of the older OBD1 diagnostic procedures. After all, you never know when a 1984 Buick may roll into your service bay and you’ll need to pull out your magic paper clip.

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OBDII Code Guide

OBDII standardized the codes and emission monitors for vehicles. The structure or nomenclature can be read by technicians by looking at the single letter and four digits to determine what the codes mean.

Honda TPMS: Direct And Indirect System Resets And Service

Honda TPMS can be one of the more difficult systems concerning relearns, reset, calibrations and programming in new sensors for direct and indirect systems

Wiring Harness Diagnostics Dodge Sebring

This month’s Diagnostic Dilemma begins with a 2004 Dodge Sebring, 2.7-liter VIN R. The owner had recovered codes P0118 (ECT), P0073 (ambient temp), P0122 (throttle position), P0123 (throttle position), P0340 (CMP), P0335 (CKP), P0129 (MAP/Baro) and P0113 (intake air).