Active Safety Technology: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning & Collision Mitigation Braking
A vehicle that stops itself may sound like something out of a futuristic sci-fi movie, but the technology is here and now. From collision mitigation braking to adaptive cruise control, find out how many of today’s next generation active safety systems come into play.
Dana Unveils Hybrid Transmission for Off-Highway Market
Dana Holding Corp. recently introduced new hybrid drivetrain technology specifically engineered for off-highway vehicles. A concept transmission in the evaluation phase, the Spicer TE-15HX is an electric parallel hybrid that features a dual power path transmission control system. This system continuously monitors operating conditions and selects the proper combination of diesel and electric power to optimize productivity while reducing fuel consumption, emissions, noise and engine idling.
Navistar Unveils Industry’s First Four-Wheel-Drive Hybrid Truck
Navistar recently unveiled its newest hybrid truck, the International WorkStar Hybrid 4×4, which the company says is the industry’s first four-wheel-drive diesel-electric hybrid commercial truck. The International WorkStar Hybrid 4×4, part of the International severe service line-up of trucks for heavier duty applications, adds to Navistar’s industry-leading line-up of diesel-electric hybrid vehicles ….
Tech Tip: Toyota Prius Master/Hybrid MIL On/DTC P3125
Under certain driving conditions, some 2001-’02 Prius vehicles may exhibit a Master, Hybrid and MIL Warning Light "on" condition where only DTC P3125, information code 287, has set in the Hybrid Vehicle Control Unit (HV ECU). Use the following procedure to identify whether the HV ECU or inverter/converter assembly should be replaced ….
Tech Tip: Prius Brake Actuator Noise
Some 2004 – 2007 model year Prius vehicles may exhibit a squeak-type noise when pressing or releasing the brake pedal. This noise may only be audible when the vehicle is in "READY" mode and the vehicle is not moving. Brake system performance is not affected by this noise. Use the following procedure to address this concern ….
Tech Tip: 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid Safety Precautions
As vehicle manufacturers strive to meet or exceed fuel economy standards, alternative vehicle designs incorporating new materials and systems will be produced to accommodate consumer demand. One such vehicle that may roll into your repair facility is the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid. Questions will arise when this vehicle arrives ….
Electronic Brake Distribution: Emerging Technology Offers Service Opportunities
Say goodbye to mechanical brake proportioning valves, and say hello to Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). This new technology is yet another electronic enhancement that’s being added to many late-model vehicles. With conventional hydraulic brakes, a mechanical proportioning valve is used to reduce pressure to the rear wheels when the brakes are applied. Inside the proportioning
WIX Expands Coverage for Hybrid Vehicles
WIX Filters has expanded its coverage of domestic and import nameplate hybrid vehicles, now offering oil, air, cabin air, fuel and transmission filters for 17 models. These include the top 10 hybrid vehicles in the U.S. according to ….
Tech Tip: Diagnosing Lit ‘Low Tire’ Lamp on Mercury Mariner Hybrid
Vehicles with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) may display a solid TPMS indicator, and the message center (if equipped) may display "Low Tire Pressure." This may result from the actual tire pressure being low due to time or temperature changes (10° F = 1 psi). Adjusting the tire pressure to specification should turn out the warning light once the sensors have been awakened ….
Tech Feature: Fueling the Future – Can You Fill Up with Alternative Fuels?
Currently gas prices have stabilized at around $1.83 a gallon, a price at which most Americans feel comfortable driving their SUVs, trucks, race cars, tow vehicles and other motorized toys. But when gas hits $4 and $5 a gallon, driving guzzlers becomes a challenge for many. It was only a few months ago that a barrel of crude oil was well over $100, a price that seemed to embed itself into the minds of most of us as we drove to wherever we were going. It felt like we ate a big triple scoop of ice cream way too fast as our wallets and gas monster SUVs were forced onto extreme diets ….
Midtronics to Supply Essential Programming Tool for GM Hybrids
Midtronics recently announced an agreement with General Motors Inc. to supply a new essential tool for 2-Mode Hybrid vehicle programming support. SPS Programming Support Tool EL-49642, based on the Midtronics PSC-550S Power Supply Charger, is shipping as an essential tool to all ….
The Impact of Telematics on Independent Service Shops
Telematics is not only shaping the future of automobiles, but also that of the aftermarket. After a lackluster debut more than 12 years ago,the telematics landscape is experiencing a surge that is redefining automobiles as we know them today. The following interview with Delphi’s Frank Ordonez on the topic of telematics is courtesy of Automotive Distribution Network’s (Parts Plus and IAPA) Network Magazine ….