Tech Tip: Chrysler Intrepid Won’t Shift, DTCs Set
Automatic overdrive transmission goes into second gear (limp-in mode) and will not shift, and trouble codes for the transmission solenoid pack are stored in memory.
Tech Tip: Servicing a Malfunctioning Automotive Ignition Switch
The automotive ignition switch, formerly a straightforward device used to connect battery voltage to various circuits and prevent theft of the vehicle, has recently been switched up.
Volkswagen: DTCs 00545/00638 Stored
If DTCs 00545/00638 are stored on a 2003 Passat Sedan 4Motion, the problem may be caused by: • Incorrect Engine Control Module (ECM) coding (codeable ECM only); • Wiring harness and/or connections between the Transmission Control Module (TCM) and ECM; • Malfunctioning ECM; • Intermittent continuity in the engine harness. • Poor engine compartment ground
Tech Feature: Mazda Driveability Diagnostics and Check Engine Light Complaints
From a torn air intake hose to ignition system concerns, Bob Dowie tackles driveability issues as well as some of the more common ailments that will bring Mazda vehicles into your bays with a check engine lamp complaint.
Tech Tip: Toyota: MIL ‘On’ DTC P1349; VVTI Actuator
Under certain conditions, customers with various 2002 Camry and Solara, and 2001-’02 Highlander and RAV4 vehicles may experience an MIL on condition with DTC P1349, indicating a variable valve timing (VVTi) malfunction. In some cases, the cause of this DTC may be the VVTi actuator. Use the procedures in this bulletin to verify the operation
Tech Feature: What’s New in Spark Plug & Ignition Cable Technology
Ignition systems have changed a great deal in recent years, with coil-on-plug (COP) ignition systems being the most common setup on many late-model engines. Car makers like COP ignition systems for a variety of reasons. The main one is that mounting a small ignition coil over each spark plug gets rid of the troublesome spark plug wires. Plug wires are vulnerable to heat and vibration damage, and can become a source of ignition misfire if they become wet.
Tech Feature: Rediscovering Your DMM Relationship
Sometimes we become so caught up in leading-edge diagnostic technology that we forget that a professional-grade digital volt-ohm meter (DVOM) or digital multimeter (DMM) is a vital tool in any technician’s diagnostic arsenal.
Tech Tip: Put a Damper on Booming Astro Van Harmonic with Rear Axle Parts
Some 1995-2004 Chevrolet Astro Van and GMC Safari owners may complain about a “boom” noise inside the vehicle while driving at speeds between 60-65 mph. This condition is most noticeable from behind the driver’s seat. The noise may result from an engine-firing harmonic, which becomes noticeable at torque converter clutch (TCC) lock-up. A new rear leaf spring damper kit (one per spring) has been developed, to be used in conjunction with a pinion nose damper tuned to 86 Hertz (Hz) to reduce the resultant noise level.
Pass-Thru Devices Are Here
Why Should You Sell Them?
By Michael Bowdish, Guest Writer
Tech Tip: Using a Smoke Machine to Quickly and Accurately Pinpoint Leaks
Smoke technology is a quick, simple solution for troubleshooting leaks in virtually any closed automotive system. In fact, finding leaks with a smoke machine is as simple as looking for the smoke, or the fluorescent dye it deposits, exiting the leak. And virtually all automakers agree, a smoke machine is the fastest, easiest way to find leaks in the EVAP (fuel vapor recovery) system.
Tech Feature: BMW and J2534 Pass-Thru Programming
In the U.S., 8 percent of the cars on the road are European vehicles. OK, that doesn’t sound like much, but think of it this way: an average repair yields more dollars per repair than most domestic and Asian vehicles. In most cases, each repair pays better. Plus, the vehicle owners have more invested into the vehicle, so they want to spend the money to fix their vehicle correctly. That 8 percent of cars on the road can pack a powerful punch when it comes to automotive repair shops making money.
Mercedes ‘CAN’ Diagnostics — Uncovering Faults Speeds The Repair Process
Dealing with frustrating error messages on your scanner? Import Specialist Contributor Larry Bailly covers some of the more common faults when dealing with Mercedes CAN wiring, what it takes to plan and achieve diagnostic success, and the places to look for the cause of faults.