Directions: Turbocharging’s Not Just A Lot of Hot Air
In a recent study of U.S. consumers by Honeywell, more than half of those who plan to purchase a vehicle in the next two years believe fuel efficiency is more important than it was during their last vehicle purchase.
When Parts Collide: Volkswagen and Audi Engine Repairs
In the early 1970s, VW/Audi designed a small, efficient and reliable engine that was easy to work on and made use of the then fairly new technology of a rubber timing belt without the possibility of damage if it failed. This two-valve-per-cylinder engine produced excellent power and economy, and really set the standard that many other manufacturers couldn’t match.
Bearing Down on Engine Damage
Internal engine inspections provide clues to bearing failures.
Tech Tip: Poor Throttle Response on VW’s Diesel Engine
Condition: Poor throttle response on 1.9L TDI equipped vehicle. Models affected include 1999-2003 Golf and Jetta, 2001-’03 Jetta Wagon and 1998-2003 New Beetle (all ALH, 1.9L TDI engines).
Hybrid Service: Nissan Altima
While the Toyota Prius dominates most of the hybrid discussion, the Nissan Altima Hybrid warrants some attention too.
Power Assist: Servicing Saturn VUE Hybrids
The hybrid version of the Saturn VUE was initially referred to as the “Green Line” model because of its improved fuel economy: 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway versus 22/27 for the regular version of the VUE. The Green Line moniker has since been dropped for the 2009 model year.
Brake Job: Ford Fusion
In the short time the Fusion and its cousins have been on the road, there have not been any recalls or TSBs issued for the brake system. Customer and field reports are positive and there are very few reports for brake noise.
Signals of a Recovering Economy . . .
It’s been said that the economic recession largely bottomed in the spring and its long-awaited end will occur later this year. A sign that some analysts say signals the start of an economic recovery for the second half of 2009 is that the U.S. index of leading economic indicators has risen for three straight months.
Internal Engine Repairs: Uncovering the Culprits That Cause Head Gaskets To Fail
The first symptoms of a failing head gasket are usually a slow loss of coolant with no visible leaks, engine overheating and/or a check engine light with cylinder misfire codes. Uncover the culprits and prevent comebacks by following repair procedures to the letter.
Tech Feature: Gaining Performance from Ignition Timing
Entry-level racers and performance enthusiasts who are involved in drag, oval or street performance often have difficulty understanding spark advance. The cool thing about ignition timing is you can usually get a considerable performance increase for little or no money. But, some time and effort will be required.