Determining Catalytic Converter Efficiency
Almost every part on the engine determines how long a catalytic converter will last.
Nissan Tech Tip: Permanent DTC (P-DTC) Information
Starting with 2010 Model Year, Nissan vehicles have been gradually incorporating a new type of DTC known as “Permanent DTC or P-DTC.” If a vehicle is equipped with P-DTCs, all emission-related DTCs will also set a P-DTC if the MIL is turned on.
Getting The TPMS Light Out On The First Try
Whether the customer brings in the vehicle with a TPMS light triggered, or one triggers as a result of performing some tire service, not being able to turn off the MIL can sometimes cause headaches for shops. Here are a few commonly overlooked issues that could be triggering a warning light.
Top 10 Timing Belt Tips
Inspection is the most critical first step that must be performed before the first bolt is removed from the timing belt cover. The inspection needs to include looking for the usual leaks and inspecting items like the oil, motor mounts and accessory drive belt components. You should also scan the vehicle for both active and historical codes.
Transmissions And Scan Tools
The transmission game has changed. Solenoids, sensors and computers have replaced vacuum lines, governors and kick-down cables on modern automatic transmissions. The tools have also changed: Scan tools, scopes and meters have replaced pressure and vacuum gauges.
The Second Belt: Getting The Replacement To Last As Long As The Original
Selling a replacement serpentine belt at 90,000 or 100,000 miles is easy. But, making that new belt go the same distance as the original can be more difficult. With zero miles on an odometer, the belt is operating in the best possible environment. The plane of the belt pulleys is properly aligned and there are no leaks. And, the tensioner is new and the spring and dampening elements are not worn out.
Top 5 Spark Plug Tips
Here are five little-known tips about spark plug replacement that you probably didn’t learn in school.
Direct Fuel Injection Diagnostics
Direct injection is becoming standard on more and more late-model vehicles. These systems can be a diagnostic challenge but, with the right foundation, problems can be solved profitably.
The Auto Loan Bubble: Could The Bursting Benefit Your Shop?
In November, it was reported that in the U.S. there is approximately $1.23 trillion in automotive financing debt (traditional loans and leasing) for both new and used vehicles, according to several financial analysts and federal institutions. What is really shocking is that for the past six years, outstanding vehicle debt has risen more than 57 percent. Some people are calling it an “auto loan bubble” that is just starting to burst.
GM Tech Tip: Black Smoke And Rough Idle On Cold Start
The driver will complain that during a cold start black smoke will come from the exhaust and the engine will have a rough idle and minimal misfires. With the introduction of direct fuel injection systems, GM has revised the cold start control system to reduce cold start emissions. Quicker catalytic converter heating helps meet the ever-changing emission requirements and improve fuel economy.
Hyundai Tech Tip: Engine Vibration Due To Misaligned Timing Marks On The Oil Pump
This bulletin provides information regarding the proper indexing of the timing marks of the Oil Pump Module during in-vehicle installation on vehicles equipped with Theta four-cylinder engines. If the Oil Pump Module timing marks are improperly indexed, abnormal engine vibration may result. Follow the service information outlined in this bulletin whenever a new or existing Oil Pump/Balance Shaft Module (BSM) is being installed.
Diagnosing Turbo Boost And Leak Problems
You are probably seeing more turbocharged four-cylinder engines at your shop. Domestic manufacturers like GM and Ford have powered a wide variety of cars and SUVs with small displacement turbo engines. Also, import manufacturers like BMW, Nissan and VW use turbos on base engines and high-performance engines.
