Understanding Ignition Systems: What Drives The Coil?
Ignition diagnostics in the 1960s was simple. By replacing the distributor’s points, rotor and cap as part of a tune up, ignition problems were solved as long as the technician set up the points and timing to factory specifications. In the early 1970s, solid-state semiconductor components reached a point where they were cheap and robust. Transistors and other electronic components replaced ignition points. With no moving parts, they require zero maintenance while providing a more powerful spark.
VIDEO: Check Tensioner Health By ‘Minding The Gap’
Andrew Markel goes over tips to visually inspect a belt tensioner, including how to tell if the belt is running uneven. Sponsored by Litens.
VIDEO: The Damage-Free Belt Tensioner Job
Andrew Markel offers quick tips to ensure a belt tensioner replacement and installation job goes smoothly without causing any damage. Sponsored by Litens.
VIDEO: The Best (And Worst) Ways To Install A Decoupler Pulley
Andrew Markel discusses several installation and removal processes for decoupler pulleys, including which will produce the most reliable results. Sponsored by Litens.
VIDEO: Fuel Pump Voltage; Different Numbers On Different Tools?
Andrew Markel discusses the current used to drive fuel pumps, and how measuring it with a suite of diagnostic tools can determine the component’s health. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
VIDEO: ECM Alternator Regulation; No More Full Field Testing
Andrew Markel explains how modern alternators are designed to have their loads regulated by the ECM, eliminating the need for full field testing. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
VIDEO: Checking Battery Health Before Module Programming
Andrew Markel discusses programming modules on a vehicle, and the importance of checking the health of the battery before performing the procedure. Sponsored by Nissan.
Top 10 Changes To Vehicles With Stop/Start Systems
A vehicle with a stop/start system is coming to your bays or might already be there. These systems can improve fuel economy by 3 to 5 percent depending on the driving habits of the customer. For your shop, it is essential to understand what is different on these vehicles and how it might change your diagnostic approach.
VIDEO: Worn Battery Cables Can Cause Driveability Issues
Can a battery cause a driveability problem? Andrew Markel shows how worn battery cables can cause a voltage drop, damaging the battery and vehicle modules. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
Audi Tech Tip: Key Can’t Be Removed From The Ignition
The customer will complain that the key can’t be removed from the ignition when the vehicle is in park. In some cases, the driver will not be able to move the shift lever from the park position. On vehicles with the Advance Key System, the car can not be locked after the engine has been shut off.
Top 10 Most Common Vehicle Repairs
Basic maintenance is the key to keeping a car running at its best. When motorists keep up with fluid changes, tire checks, filter changes and other services, it helps avoid bigger and more expensive repairs down the road. However, over time, some vehicle parts and components wear out or become damaged. When motorists are educated about their vehicles’ maintenance needs, it allows them to address any issues before they become even bigger problems.
Shifty Battery Drain
Typically, when you’re doing a parasitic draw test, you watch the meter and wait for the amperage load to drop and the various systems to go to sleep. But on this truck, something was staying awake. Time for a different approach to the problem.
