BRAKE JOB: Seventh Generation Accord (2003-’08)
The seventh-generation Honda Accord (2003-’08) and Acura TL are some of the top-selling vehicles in the U.S. They have a very simple brake system to service, but it can be prone to brake noise if not serviced properly.
NVH Strategies for Disc Brakes
Nobody likes noisy brakes. Vehicle manufacturers go to great lengths to minimize brake noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) because potential car buyers won’t tolerate it.
Tech Tip: Brake Pedal Sinks When First Pulling Away (2001-’05 Impala and Monte Carlo)
Customers may complain of a very slight loss of speed and sinking of the brake pedal when first pulling out of a driveway or parking lot.
Tech Tip: Machining New Rotors Is Unnecessary
New quality rotors should simply be thoroughly washed and installed.
Tech Tip: Mazda Seat Heater Needs a Boost
Some Mazda6 drivers may complain that the seat warmers turn off too early or may not heat to their satisfaction. The operating temperature of the new seat warmer has been increased on later vehicles by 14 degrees F (on average) to address this concern.
Mercedes Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) System Troubleshooting
The lack of self-diagnostics plus the complexity of the ASR II system can frustrate even the most experienced master tech.
Affinia Launches Public Awareness Website
Badbrakes.net is new source for information on “thin-wall” brake rotors.
PT Cruiser Chirps at the Drive Belt
Some PT Cruiser drivers may comment that their vehicles have started making strange sounds.
Subaru: Coolant Comes Out of Reservoir
If you encounter a vehicle that experiences coolant coming out of the coolant reservoir tank, it may be caused by the radiator cap pressure valve being stuck open by debris sucked up through the reservoir tank hose.
Selling Services: Wheel Speed Sensors
There are two main types of magnetic wheel speed sensors — passive and active. Both use a tone ring to reference against and each look very similar to one another.
Tech Tip: Cadillac DeVille Makes a Moaning Noise
If a customer complains about a moaning noise in his or her 1998 Cadillac DeVille, it may be due to the steering system frequencies.
Brake Safety Awareness Week: August 23-29
For the third consecutive year, the Motorist Assurance Program (MAP) is sponsoring Brake Safety Awareness Week. The event is annually held the final full week in August, with this year’s dates being August 23-29.