Servicing R1234yf: Are You Ready?
R-1234yf, tabbed the replacement for R-134a, has been in service now for a few years on certain models of vehicles from FCA and GM to several European models.
Catalytic Converter Replacement
If you are replacing a catalytic converter for a customer, it is not the same as replacing a muffler or pipe. Since the catalytic converter is an emissions device that is federally and locally mandated, documentation is just as key as proper installation.
Head Gaskets And Head Lift
Head lift is not the whole head that is lifting from the block, but is a distortion in specific areas of the head and block interface where the head gasket is installed. This distortion can damage the head gaskets and head bolts.
Toyota Tech Tip: ABS Noise, Warning Lamps And Code C1431
Some 2012-’13 model year Camry vehicles may exhibit a condition where ABS brake actuator pump motor noise is heard from the engine compartment with Brake ABS and/or TRAC warning lamp(s) illuminated and DTC C1431 stored. A poor ground on the left fender side panel bracket may cause this condition after a collision repair.
Navigation Tricks For Getting The Most Out Of Your Service Information
Being able to navigate the service information quickly is just as an important skill a scanning for codes. Here are 10 tricks that can help you find the information faster.
Curing Intercooler Condensation And Oiling Issues
An intercooler, or charge-air cooler (CAC), improves volumetric efficiency by increasing intake air charge density through constant volume cooling.
Air Conditioning Odor Causes And Cures
Air conditioning odors typically result from the uncontrolled growth of bacteria and other microorganisms in the evaporator. Research by independent laboratories has found fungi such as Aspergillus, Cladesporium, Penicillium and others growing on cooling coils and other A/C system areas.
Picking The Right Spark Plug
If you are ordering spark plugs, the number of choices on your parts screen has grown out of control. From choosing the manufacturer to the electrode design it can be very confusing when selecting the right plug for the customer. But, if you understand why the manufacturer specified a particular plug technology, you can pick the correct replacement plug.
TPMS Service: 2011 Toyota RAV4
TPMS relearns for the 2011 Toyota RAV4 are fairly straightforward and simple. The RAV4 doesn’t have a reset button underneath the dash or within the glove box, meaning technicians don’t have to worry about getting a TPMS relearn malfunction due to the vehicle’s ECU closed loop. This also means that in order to successfully service the RAV4’s TPMS, a shop needs a dedicated TPMS scan tool.
Air Filter And Fuel Trim Diagnostics
The modern engine measures two things extremely well, the amount of air going into the combustion chamber with the mass airflow sensor (MAF), and the byproducts that are generated by the combustion event with the oxygen sensor. These measurements allow the engine’s computer to put the right amount of fuel and spark into the cylinder to give the most efficient and cleanest combustion event.
Knock, Knock, Who’s There? A Qualified Tech!
I recently stopped at a local high school in the Akron, OH, area and spent time with Chad, an instructor who is preparing seniors for a potential job in automotive service and repair. He shared with me the following event that happened that morning.
Lifetime Air Filters: Fad Or Future?
In 2005, Ford took the air filter game to a new level by introducing a lifetime air filter on Ford Focus models with the 2.0L or 2.3L PZEV engines. If you are thinking this was an oiled cotton filter, you are wrong. The filter was designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and would never need service or replacement.
