Tech Tip: Mazda6 and Mazda SPEED6 Information System Freezes in the Cold
Certain Mazda owners may complain of a problem with their vehicle’s information display during sub-zero temperatures. Some vehicles may experience no illumination from the information display when the ignition is turned on. Also, the clock runs too fast and may gain more than 20 minutes per week. To correct this condition, follow the Repair Procedure in this Tech Tip.
Opinion: A Mechanic by Any Other Name
In the debate of mechanic versus technician, I really don’t think that what we call ourselves makes all that much of a difference.
Diagnostic Dilemmas: The Market Value for a Repair to an Older Vehicle
It’s a sign of the times that many people are bringing older vehicles into shops for repairs that they would not have considered several years ago. So it’s not unusual to see people spending more to repair a vehicle than its market value.
Gonzo’s Tool Box: Shift Happens
Jo was a new customer referred by an old-time regular. Her little KIA had a transmission problem that seemed to be getting the best of the transmission shop. The story goes that the SUV was constantly in limp mode, and would never shift properly … ever.
Interview with Scot A. Holloway, General Manager, Bartec USA, LLC
Certainly by now you have heard about Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). This increasingly hot topic is very controversial yet compelling. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems are and have been a required feature on U.S. Passenger vehicles since 2008. Introducing this technology to the way we maintain our vehicles has improved safety and vehicle performance, increased fuel efficiency and tire life. It also has forever changed the way autos and tires are serviced.
Duracell AGM Batteries to Power 2011 Numerals at Times Square, NY
For the third consecutive year, Duracell AGM batteries, made by East Penn, are powering a special project at Times Square, New York City. At midnight on New Year’s Eve, these advanced batteries will provide extreme power to the hundreds of light bulbs that illuminate the 2011 numerals.
Mighty Offers Program to Jump-Start Battery Sales
Mighty batteries are manufactured by Exide. The turn-key program is aimed at creating an additional revenue stream for generating accelerated profits.
Service Solutions: Electrical Problems – Invisible Targets
To correctly diagnose invisible electrical challenges, sometimes, it literally takes all we know plus patience, suggestions from others and maybe a little luck. This story began innocently enough with an overheating complaint on the first vehicle. The second had intermittent flickering headlights and instrument cluster gauge fluctuations, so it was an obvious challenge. We will attempt to convey what was learned in locating the target causes of these electrical challenges.
Tech Feature: Hemisphere Exploration – Journey to the Center of the 5.7L Hemi
The 5.7L HEMI Magnum V8, which made its debut in 2003 in Dodge Ram 2500/3500 series trucks, was quite an improvement over the older 5.9L V8 it replaced. The engine was 56 lbs. lighter, produced 41% more horsepower and 12% more torque than the previous motor. Better yet, it also delivered 8-10% better fuel economy.
TPMS UPDATE: BMW Systems
BMW has offered Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) on most of its vehicles since 2002. Some 2002 and 2003 models have a indirect system called Flat Tire Monitor (FTM). These system compare the inputs of the wheel speed sensors to detect a flat tire. These early indirect and direct systems were implemented not to meet the 2007 government mandate, but to inform the driver when a run-flat tire was deflated.
TPMS Q&A: Common Questions and Answers about Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
What is one of the leading causes of sensor failure? Corrosion, sensors or sensor stems can be damaged by corrosion from road salts, moisture, missing valve caps or galvanic corrosion. The use of dissimilar metals or use of non-TPMS components can result in galvanic corrosion, which may affect the sensor’s ability to read or transmit data.
Tech Tip: Take Care of Your Alternator as Winter Approaches
The alternator, which powers the vehicle’s entire electrical system, not only provides current to operate all of your car’s electrical accessories and the engine – it keeps the vehicle’s battery charged, and its importance is amplified as the weather turns colder and the vehicle uses more power-robbing accessories.