Chicago Auto Show Display Takes 1.0L EcoBoost Apart
One of many highlights in the Ford booth at the 107th Chicago Auto Show was a large layout of the pieces that make up the first-ever Ford three-cylinder EcoBoost engine. This 1.0 liter turbocharged, direct-injection powerplant delivers 123 hp and 125 lb.-ft. of torque. The 1.0L EcoBoost was named the 2014 International Engine of the
Lithium: An Element That Is Charging Ahead
What is an EMV? As you read the hybrid and plug-in articles that my company, ACDC, is writing this year, we have coined a new term: EMV (electric motor vehicle). Rather than use hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery electric or electric car with a range extender, we will refer to all these as an EMV. When
What To Do With Used Hybrid Batteries
The nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery is the best and most common hybrid battery so far, and the sheer volume of them is staggering. NiHM batteries have been in use for well over 15 years, and out of the more than 7 million hybrid cars on the road worldwide, 90% have NiMH battery packs. Then,
Be Careful When Replacing That Diesel Air Filter
Modern passenger and light-duty diesels with ECMs have mass airflow sensors and precisely control fuel delivery. Key to the efficiency and lifespan of the diesel engine is the diesel air filter. A restricted air filter will not affect fuel economy but will drastically affect power output. We asked prominent filter manufacturers for some diesel air
No More Free Tire Rotations!
Tire rotation is a cornerstone of vehicle preventive maintenance and tire longevity. It is a well-proven fact that tire tread life can be greatly enhanced by regular and timely tire rotation. During rotation, each tire and wheel is removed from a vehicle and moved to a different position to ensure that all tires wear evenly
Must-Read TPMS Technical Service Bulletins
Here’s a rundown of the top technical service bulletins related to TPMS. These TSBs should be analyzed by every technician that services TPMS. Audi TSB Number: 4413382034445/1 Models: 2010-’14 A4/S4, A5/S5 and Q5 Summary: This TSB addresses TPMS MIL lights that are not related to a loss of pressure. The TPMS light may illuminate if
Advantages of Dry Sump Oil Systems
Dry sump oil systems were once found only on racing engines, but they are starting to find their way into more production cars, like the LS 7 and Mercedes-Benz V8. Also, many prototype engines for fuel-efficient cars now have dry sump oil systems. Why? Advantages Packaging: No oil pan means the engine can sit lower.
‘Green’ Bullets: Tips for Servicing Hybrid Vehicles
Newsflash: Hybrids are here to stay. The oldest Toyota Prius models are now 14 years old and many other hybrids from other manufacturers are crossing the 100,000-mile mark every day. Here are a few of my Silver Bullets, — or in this case “Green Bullets” — to help you maintain and service hybrids. Toyota: Restricted
Diesel Exhaust Fluid: Not Just a Heavy-Duty Application
You may notice a new product on the parts store shelf that goes by the name Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) and is helping diesels of all sizes meet more stringent emissions standards. DEF is not just a heavy-duty- or import-only product. It’s being used in vehicles ranging from 1.8-L to 7.0-L diesel engines. Early applications
Toyota Hybrid Oil Change
Does the thought of changing the oil on a Toyota Prius scare you? Are you afraid you could be shocked with more than 200 volts? Don’t be afraid, changing the oil is not radically different than any other Toyota. Changing the engine oil on just about every hybrid doesn’t require disconnecting the hybrid drive system,
Hybrid Fluid Service 101
Does the phrase ”hybrid fluid maintenance” scare you? It shouldn’t. With more than 3 million hybrids on the road, and many of your customers considering purchasing one, servicing hybrid vehicles is in your future. Some special procedures must be followed when working on a hybrid.
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.
