Scan Tool Freeze Frames: Using Generic Data To Make A Specific Diagnosis.
As part of OBDII, Mode$02 for the logging or freeze frame data was created. This diagnostic protocol saves data PIDs and information when a code is set. In 1995, freeze frame gave technicians a powerful diagnostic tool that was previously only available on expensive factory tools.
SAE J2534, Part II: How Much Money Are You Losing By Not Doing Vehicle Reflashing?
In Part I of this series, I talked about what J2534 was and a bit about how it works. I would like to use this followup article to lower the fear factor and tell you what to expect when setting up a computer to run a J2534-supported software program.
Replacement Auto Part Standards And Regulations
With the recent tariffs going into effect, it has sparked the discussion about regulations for vehicle replacement parts to keep some imported auto parts off the market. Most people think that with a stroke of a pen dangerous and sub-standard parts could be banned and parts quality will be improved overnight. But, what standards should be applied? Who should do the testing? This is where things get tricky.
Using Fuel And Ignition Waveforms Together
Fuel injector and secondary ignition waveforms can show the condition of the fuel and ignition system, and combined they can give you new insights on misfires and if they are related to the fuel or ignition system. Scan tools can tell you if there is a misfire and which cylinder is misfiring. Rarely will you be able to determine if it is the ignition coil and spark plug or if the fuel injector is causing a rich or lean condition. With a scope that has the correct probes, it is possible.
Understanding Oil Additives: New Engines, New Standards
Have you noticed that it is getting harder to stock oil these days? For some vehicles, the same model may take three different types of oils, depending on the make or engine. The base model may require a 5W-30, while the V6 version may require a 5W-20, and the hybrid version may require a 0W-20.
HVAC Sensors: More Than Just Temperature
When a driver sets a temperature in the control head of an HVAC system, what does it mean to the vehicle? Seventy-two degrees could mean many different settings depending on the outside temperature, humidity and even the position of the sun.
Ford Power Stroke Guide
Ford Power Stroke diesel engines have a history that dates back to 1994. The first in this series was the 7.3L engine, which was designed by Navistar for Ford. The 7.3L featured direct injection and turbocharging, and was probably the most reliable and durable engine in the series. The only major problems with these engines have been hard cold starts due to extreme valve seat wear or leaky O-rings on the injectors.
Knock Sensor Engine Diagnostics
The knock sensor is a piezoelectric accelerometer that acts as a microphone on the engine. It converts vibrations into an alternating current (AC) signal. When the crystal inside the sensor is vibrated, it produces an AC voltage. The greater the vibration or shock, the higher the voltage and frequency.
Mazda Tech Tip: Sulfur Or Rotten Egg Smell/Odor From The Exhaust
On some Mazda vehicles, a sulfur smell or rotten egg odor may be noticed coming from the exhaust system. The odor is usually noticed after a cold start, fast idle, extended periods of idling and full-throttle acceleration. The sulfur smell is not an indication of an engine concern and will not cause reduced driveability or durability of the engine or any of its emission components.
The Ins And Outs Of The SAE J2534 Vehicle Communication Interface
The ultimate goal of J2534 for 2018 model year and, in some cases, much earlier vehicles is for shops to be able to run OEM and aftermarket scan tool software and programming applications to include vehicle security over a common standardized Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI).
Can You Save A Life With A VIN?
Your shop may have the opportunity to save a life every day – it could happen in the alignment bay, quick lube lane and even the front office. It is an opportunity to tell your customers you care about their safety. So, what is this opportunity? Checking to see if their vehicle is involved in the Takata airbag recall.
Determining The Life Of The Oil: How Do OEMs Calculate Oil Life Percentages?
Nothing is more frustrating for a customer than getting in a vehicle after an oil change and seeing that the oil life monitor has not been reset. Either the technician did not realize the vehicle had a reset procedure, or they did not want to look it up. But, it is safe to assume that every 2007 and newer vehicle has a reset procedure.
