December 2017 Archives - UnderhoodService
Tech Tip: Honda Accord And CR-V Rattle At Start Up

At cold start-up, the engine rattles loudly for about two seconds. The possible cause could be the variable valve timing control (VTC) actuator is defective. Replace the VTC actuator. This procedure does not require the complete removal of the cam chain and associated parts, so repair time is shorter.

Bionic Exoskeleton Vest: The Cure For The Aging Technician?

The vest for assembly line workers was a collaboration between Ekso Bionics and Ford. The technology can help to extend the career of technicians by relieving some of the stress and injuries that can come from working on cars.

Drive Belt Checklist: What Are You Missing?

You might have only one chance to sell a customer a new serpentine belt. With belts lasting roughly 90,000 miles, proper inspection at the time of failure is critical not only for selling the belt, but also for ensuring add-on sales and better customer satisfaction.

Diesel Exhaust Particulate Filters: How Do They Work, What Do They Do?

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a ceramic filter that has thousands of tiny channels or honeycomb-shaped openings that trap the soot onto the channel walls and prevent the particulate matter (down to 1 micron) from exiting out the tailpipe. The honeycombed inner structure is covered with a layer of a chemical catalyst that contains small amounts of precious metals, usually platinum or palladium.

Rental Car Evolution Presents Service Opportunities & Can Extend Your Shop’s Car Count

There are a growing number of privately owned rental fleets. These fleets are not big businesses, but rather small ones that are run by private individuals. You can find them with mobile apps and websites like Turo and Uber.

Oxygen Sensor And Catalyst Efficiency

The catalyst efficiency monitor verifies the catalytic converter is operating at a high enough efficiency rating to keep exhaust emissions within the predetermined values. The PCM compares the signals from the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors to determine the state of the converter. These “tests” are called the readiness monitors. 

Gonzo’s Tool Box: Cash Discount For Engine Swap Gone Wrong

In attempt to drum up some new business, I decided to run a cash discount promotion for large jobs thinking it might bring in new customers. It sounded like a good idea at the time, but the best-laid plans often go awry.

What a Brake Caliper Taught Me About Service Information

According to the service manual, the procedure involves removing the lower caliper bolt, swinging the caliper up, and swapping the pads. The students also were required to torque the bolts and use torque sticks to mount the wheel.