Ending a Volvo Head Gasket Leak
Volvo engines have always been noted for their durability and long-term, trouble-free operation. But just like any internal combustion engine, they could develop head gasket problems that stem from owner neglect or the engine design. This article will detail the diagnostic process and procedures for replacing the head gasket in the most common Volvo engine
How Sensors Provide ‘Good Input’ for Diagnostics
One of the systems that Subaru has perfected through improved reliability over the years has been its distributorless ignition system (DIS) for all of its models. Because of the horizontally opposed design of its engines, the ignition system can be centrally mounted and made simple. In this article, we will touch on some common diagnostic
Confronting the Complete Cooling System Service
By now, it’s obvious to most service shops that cooling system service is an absolute “must-do” on any nameplate. Once a cooling system suffers long-term neglect, it turns into an ongoing source of problems for the owner and his service technician because, when corrosion starts to take place, the effects can’t be reversed. For that
Nissan Engine Diagnostics
You don’t have to be an import specialist to know that Nissan cars and trucks have a good reputation for reliability and longevity. Nissan, under the Datsun name, was one of the first Japanese automakers to break into the U.S. market. They did it right, by establishing a strong dealer network and offering a quality
Chrysler Neon 2.0L
When Chrysler introduced their new Neon models back in 1995 under the Dodge and Plymouth nameplates, they said they were launching a new generation of “fun-to-drive” entry-level cars that would appeal to a wide range of people. Everything was new about the Neon: a brand new body, a brand new chassis and two new engines,
Selling Multi-Coil Ignition Parts
Time has indeed passed you by if you still believe in the traditional import engine tuneup. Many years ago, much of the import service market revolved around the annual spark plug, ignition cable, distributor cap and rotor replacement needed to maintain an import engine at peak efficiency. During the past decade, however, multi-coil waste-spark and
Diagnosing and Fixing Compressor Failures
The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration circuit. It pumps and pressurizes the refrigerant to move it through the A/C system. Compressors work hard and run hot, up to several hundred degrees and several hundred pounds per square inch of internal pressure, yet they rely on only a few ounces of lubricant to keep
Mass Air Flow Operation Strategy
When diagnosing hot-wire air flow meters (A/F meters) on Subarus and similarly equipped Asian vehicles, technicians may find that, while the meter passes all recommended test procedures, the engine exhibits driveability conditions associated with lean air/fuel mixture ratios. In these cases, it’s best to form a diagnostic strategy based on the relatively simple operating principles
Understanding Operating Strategies
As driveability technicians, we’ve been taught to solve diagnostic problems by gathering and analyzing data. Data usually comes in three basic forms, the first of which is sensory data that we can see, hear, smell or feel. The second form is measured values gathered by using test equipment like lab scopes and multimeters. The third
Component Connection: Wiper Motors
If there is one system that vehicle owners believe is inhabited by Gremlins, it’s the windshield wipers. Unfortunately, car owners don’t normally realize there is a problem with the wiper system until they need them most – when it’s raining. No matter what type of car you service, when it comes to wiper-related problems, the