A Closer Look: Ignition Coils
OE coils are known for their high failure rates. Engine misfires, rough idle, a decrease in power under acceleration, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light are all signs of an ignition coil that has failed. Read along for more technical information on how to diagnose a failed coil, and why the original equipment
Engineering behind chassis: high and low-friction parts
What is overengineering? Overengineering is often described as designing a product or solution in an unnecessarily complicated way where a simple solution had been shown to have the same efficiency, or is even more effective than the original. In the aftermarket world, the OE part is where the journey starts. It begins with testing and
A Closer Look: Turbocharger Operation and Installation
Turbocharger Overview With an effort to increase fuel efficiency, maintain performance and reduce emissions, vehicle manufacturers are adding turbocharged engines to their lineups at a significant rate. Over the next five years, the turbo service market will continue to experience substantial growth. At a basic level, a turbocharger consists of just three major internal components:
Two Lubegards Are Better Than One
Lubegard Synthetic ATF Protectant and Instant Shudder Fixx work better, faster, and longer together to stop torque converter clutch shudder (TCC shudder). Both products are effective on their own, but when used together they provide not only a long-term solution for TCC shudder but also offer complete protection for transmissions. Since the 1980’s lockup torque convertors
The Importance of Proper Spark Plug Torquing
Whenever you install new spark plugs in your vehicle’s engine, there are some crucial considerations to keep in mind. For those who have installed plugs before, proper plug gapping usually comes to mind first. But another important factor in getting the most out of a new set of spark plugs is to precisely torque them
What Causes Fuel Pumps to Fail?
Like most vehicle components, natural wear and tear is the unavoidable cause for parts replacement. Fuel pumps are often out of sight and out of mind for most shop visitors. That’s because they are an as-needed repair and not typically a part of ongoing maintenance. Nevertheless, if you diagnose fuel pump failure, customers will want
Protecting Your Vehicle in the Winter
Depending on where you live, autumn is an idyllic time of year with bright colors and mild temperatures. If there is one downside though, it means that winter is on its way, which means frigid temperatures, snow, ice and difficult road conditions. The lifespans of cars and trucks are increasing all the time, so protecting
Complete Pentastar Oil Adapter Fix
Engine Oil Filter Adapter: 926-959 Upgraded Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Oil Cooler and Filter Application Summary: Chrysler 2022-11, Dodge 2022-11, Jeep 2022-11, Ram 2022-12, Volkswagen 2014-11 The factory oil filter adapter on millions of OEM V6-powered vehicles often leaks oil when its plastic housing warps from harsh underhood conditions. As the plastic eventually
Helping Customers Understand the Signs of Fuel Pump Failure
Fuel pump failures are never a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. Different symptoms indicate different problems and often, the pump will still function—albeit erratically—as it fails. Explaining this to customers isn’t always easy, especially because many of them may not know that the fuel pump has more than one role. Shop owners and technicians can help customers understand
Beam vs. Conventional Wiper Blades: Which is Better?
As you’re aware, all car parts change over time. This includes wiper blades, which some vehicle owners might not consider to be a crucial part. As with any other vehicle component, research and technology have improved the way wipers are designed, how they’re installed, and their overall function. Weather and road conditions vary and will
What Do You Need to Know About Motor Oil?
Over the past decade, more and more shelf space has been dedicated to motor oils. New SKUs might be for new viscosities, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications, and even motor oil formulations. This proliferation can create confusion when recommending the correct motor oil for the vehicle and customer. To help clear up the chaos, it
6 Signs It’s Time to Put Down the Pen and Ditch the Paper
There’s no time to hesitate. The surge in the aftermarket sweet spot — or vehicles in the six- to 12-year age range that will soon require significant repairs — reached 94 million in the first half of 2021, according to Experian Automotive. That total accounts for nearly 31% of all vehicles in operation. That percentage
