Tech Tip: Honda Drivetrain Noise/Judder from Rear of Vehicle
If a customer with a 2003 and later Pilot or 2006 and later Ridgeline complains of a noise and judder from the rear of the vehicle when turning, the VTM-4 differential fluid could likely be contaminated by clutch wear, condensation or both. This causes the VTM-4 differential clutches to make noise and to judder when turning.
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.
Tech Tip: Solving Common Brake Symptoms With Unique Solutions
Some vehicles have a history of brake-related problems, but there are some unique solutions to resolve those frustrating customer complaints.
Tech Tip: Common Brake Symptoms Can Require Unique Solutions
Diagnosing brake related complaints can be a challenge. A well-trained brake technician can follow a methodical diagnostic procedure and still be faced with the same annoying brake complaint. Sometimes the technician will resolve a problem temporarily, only to have the vehicle return at a later date with the same condition.
Bleeding ABS Brake System: Why Brake Fluid and Lines Degrade
According to R. L. Polk, the average age of the vehicles on U.S. roads was 9.2 years in 2007 with 41 percent of the vehicles 11 years or older. This high median age is a good reason to consider the condition of the brake fluid and bleeding procedures when performing maintenance or repairs. Maintenance or repair of an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) system can require the opening of the hydraulic system. Any time the hydraulic system is opened, air can be introduced into the lines and components.
DENSO Develops World’s First Passenger Vehicle Air Conditioning System Using an Ejector
DENSO Corp. said this week it has developed the world’s first passenger vehicle air conditioning system that uses ejector technology. The ejector, which is a small refrigerant injector, contributes to an overall reduction in power consumption. The system will be installed on the new Prius, introduced by Toyota this month.
Tech Tip: Cool Fix for a Ford Diesel
A Ford truck, SUV or van owner may complain of a crank/no-start condition, lack of power and coolant leak. Some vehicles equipped with a 6.0L diesel engine may exhibit those symptoms, along with oil in the coolant. The coolant leak creates a low coolant condition, which may cause the engine to overheat or result in no cabin heat.
Tech Feature: Servicing Diesels in Your Shop
Is there a diesel in your service bay? Maybe not now, but there definitely will be in your future. You’re going to see trucks as well as SUVs and passenger cars. Mercedes-Benz produced a 3.0L V6 diesel-powered SUV for the 2008 model year and Volkswagen has a Twinturbo 5.0L V10 diesel engine in its Touareg. As the automakers focus on better fuel economy, you might say the diesels are coming again.
Tech Tip: Leaky Honda? Seal the Deal and Drive
If you detect an oil leak from the front, middle or rear of the engine on one of the models listed below, it’s probable that the cast aluminum engine block may be porous in spots. To correct the problem, seal the leak with J-B Weld or 3-Bond-coated sealing bolts, depending on the location of the leak.
Tech Feature: Small Block Chevy and Ford Performance Cylinder Heads
Small block Chevy and Ford engines have been the mainstays of the aftermarket performance industry for nearly half a century. The original small block Chevy made its debut way back in 1955 as a 265 cubic inch V8, and the small block Ford appeared in 1962 as a 260 cubic inch motor.