Belt and Hose Inspections
Don’t Lose Potential Profits by Missing Replacement Opportunities
Tech Tip: Finding the Failure Pattern
All diagnostic techs are eventually confronted with a random, no-code failure that occurs only under a very narrow range of circumstances. All too often, solving a random, no-code malfunction is a long-shot proposition for any diagnostic tech because a particular combination of events is required to initiate that particular malfunction. Sure, every once in a while a technician can get lucky with a chance roll of the diagnostic dice, but that’s about it when it comes to ….
Tech Tip: Diagnosing an Engine that Won’t Start
For any engine to start, three things are necessary: fuel, compression and spark. If any of these components is lacking, the engine won’t start. The fuel system must be generating normal fuel pressure, and the air/fuel ratio must be correct for the ambient temperature and engine temperature. If the air/fuel mixture is too lean, it won’t ignite and the engine won’t start. If the air/fuel mixture is too rich, it can flood the engine and also prevent it from starting ….
Tech Tip: Diagnosing Malfunctioning Jeep Instrument Cluster
The same two-wire CCD BUS that Chrysler has been using for years on its cars is now being used on Jeeps and trucks, giving today’s Jeep Wrangler a new level of sophistication. If the instrument cluster doesn’t work, first determine which gauges don’t operate or if the whole cluster is down. I like to start testing with the printed circuit board self test ….
Tech Tip: Engine Knocking Noise Just Above Idle May Be Normal
Engine "knock" may be heard on an applied vehicle just above engine idle speed (800-1,100 rpm) with the engine under a slight load. The noise cannot be detected over 1,100 rpm. The cause may be a normal pulsating noise coming from the EVAP purge solenoid valve and piping (in the engine compartment) transferring into the passenger cabin. However, use the following procedure to reduce the noise ….
Understanding Steering Quality
And Delivering a Good Driving Experience to Customers
Tech Feature: Diagnosing Fuel Pumps and Injectors
One of the first questions that should always be answered when diagnosing a fuel-related complaint on a fuel-injected engine is, “What is the fuel pressure?” All too often, technicians assume fuel pressure is “good” without actually measuring it with a gauge. If the engine runs, they assume the injectors are getting adequate fuel pressure. If
Mode $06 Diagnostic Update
Mode $06 has been around since the introduction of second-generation onboard diagnostic (OBD II) systems back in the mid-1990s. Essentially, Mode $06 is the raw test data the OBD II system uses to evaluate the operating status of various components in the engine management and emission control systems
Finding the Failure Pattern
but that’s about it when it comes to diagnosing random, no-code malfunctions. Lucky or not, the chances of locating the cause of a random, no-code malfunction can be increased by determining the sequence of events needed to trigger the malfunction. Determining this sequence of events is what I call, “Finding the Failure Pattern.” From the
Tech Tip: Diagnosing Wheel Speed Sensors
Wheel speed sensors (WSS) provide essential wheel speed information not only for anti-lock brake systems (ABS), but also for traction control and stability control systems. Some vehicles even compare the wheel speed sensor readings against the vehicle speed sensor (VSS) to make sure all of these sensors are accurate and working correctly. In some situations, it is also possible that the ….
Diagnosing a Car’s Intermittent Stalling Issues
Causes, Solutions, and Diagnostic Steps to Troubleshoot Engine Stalling Issues.
Downloading Repairs
Have you looked at technical service bulletins lately? Especially ones for vehicles built since 2004? The fixes have changed drastically. I remember a time, not too long ago when the fix in a typical TSB was to install an updated part. From where I stand now in a Ford dealership, it seems like the hardware