Diagnostic Dilemmas: Changes In Our Diagnostic Outlook
Everybody likes to read about a Diagnostic Dilemma that has been solved to everybody’s satisfaction. But this month I have an unsolved Diagnostic Dilemma that is more about customers than cars. This particular dilemma involves a 2005 Ford Crown Victoria with headlamps that randomly lose power during night driving.
Tech Feature: Parasitic Draw Hunting With A Voltmeter
In the past, I’ve always hunted down parasitic draws with my multimeter set on the amperage scale in series with the battery cable, along with jumper leads to open and close the connection, so I could watch for the amperage drop. I also needed to know what a safe level was in order to see the actual draw (or lack of). Some techs use a dead-man switch attached to the battery post instead of jumper wires. For me, it’s whatever I have handy at the time, and time is money so the quicker I can get to the source of the problem, the better that is for my bottom line.
Mighty Auto Parts Launches Battery Testing Video
Studies show that one in 11 properly tested batteries will need to be replaced. This educational video shows why battery testing is an essential step during service and maintenance and how to incorporate it into the inspection process.
Tech Tip: Mazda Air Intake Selector Mode Switch Failure
Some Mazda6 vehicles may experience an air selector mode switch that will not switch into recirculation mode. This condition may be caused by a lack of continuity in the mode switch.
ODYSSEY Battery By EnerSys Named Official Battery Sponsor Of Brian Deegan
EnerSys announced that its ODYSSEY battery brand will be the official battery of Brian Deegan, short course off-road truck and rally car racer, freestyle motocross rider and pioneer in action sports.
Diagnosing Fuel Pumps Using Voltage Drops And Current Testing
Some of the best diagnostic tests for fuel pumps are voltage drops and current testing. Fuel pressure and volume are influenced by voltage, current and the demand controlled by the regulator. If a fuel pump is not receiving the correct voltage, it cannot spin fast enough. Voltage drop testing can isolate problems that can still remain even if the pump is replaced.
Tech Feature: Dissecting The Control Module – PCMs, TCMs And BCMs
With the complexity of automotive electrical systems increasing steadily, manufacturers have developed troubleshooting trees and strategies to make it easier for technicians to diagnose problems. These steps and strategies are very helpful for technicians when followed, but they can also prevent them from using their cognitive skills.
TPMS Q&A: Placards, Disabling, Sensor Fit, Pins And 1020 kPh
Can Tire Pressure Monitoring be turned off? Will a tire pressure sensor fit in every wheel? Can the sensor be cleaned with a sharp pin? Keep reading to find out the answers to these questions as well as other questions relating to TPMS service.
Directions: Selling The Fuel-Cell
A collaborative partnership between Daimler, Ford and Renault-Nissan was announced to begin mass producing hydrogen-fueled fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in the next four years.
Electrical: Hand Wire Splicing for Sensitive Connections
A long time ago, I learned a method of splicing wire that has stuck with me since those early days. I actually picked this method up while I was in the military (USMC), so I can’t take credit for inventing it or perfecting it.
Diagnostic Solutions: Starter & Battery Diagnostics
Import Specialist Contributor Gary Goms says that early 1900s inventor Charles F. Kettering’s electric self-starter transformed the automobile from a temperamental novelty item into a practical means of transportation.
ACDelco Powers Up Its Fleet Battery Portfolio
ACDelco has released two new fleet battery part numbers in its continuing effort to provide fleet servicers a broader variety of battery choices.