Technology Corner: Singing In The Wires
The large majority of techs in service bays right now did not have a ground-up automotive education, and many of those who did certainly did not get a ground-up electrical education. This is no indictment of anyone, just cold, hard facts.
VIDEO: Syncing The Intelligent Proximity Key On Nissan Vehicles
Andrew Markel discusses a TSB which describes the syncing procedure when an Intelligent Key stops working with its vehicle. Sponsored by Nissan.
VIDEO: Module Communication Codes? Check The Alternator
Andrew Markel talks about AC voltage and what to test for when module communication codes appear while a vehicle is on the road. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
Alternator Ripple Testing: The Ghost In The Machine
Before computers and networks in vehicles, an alternator that was producing AC voltage or ripple through the electrical system would cause flickering lights and maybe an ignition problem. Today, excessive ripple voltage can cause communication issues with networks and communication DTCs in multiple modules.
Alternator Testing Tips
If only battery voltage is present at the battery on a running engine, does this mean the alternator is “bad?” No, it does not. It only means that the alternator is not charging, but does not reveal why. Therefore, it does not prove a faulty alternator.
VIDEO: Check Tensioner Health By ‘Minding The Gap’
Andrew Markel goes over tips to visually inspect a belt tensioner, including how to tell if the belt is running uneven. Sponsored by Litens.
VIDEO: The Damage-Free Belt Tensioner Job
Andrew Markel offers quick tips to ensure a belt tensioner replacement and installation job goes smoothly without causing any damage. Sponsored by Litens.
VIDEO: The Best (And Worst) Ways To Install A Decoupler Pulley
Andrew Markel discusses several installation and removal processes for decoupler pulleys, including which will produce the most reliable results. Sponsored by Litens.
VIDEO: Fuel Pump Voltage; Different Numbers On Different Tools?
Andrew Markel discusses the current used to drive fuel pumps, and how measuring it with a suite of diagnostic tools can determine the component’s health. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
VIDEO: ECM Alternator Regulation; No More Full Field Testing
Andrew Markel explains how modern alternators are designed to have their loads regulated by the ECM, eliminating the need for full field testing. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
VIDEO: Checking Battery Health Before Module Programming
Andrew Markel discusses programming modules on a vehicle, and the importance of checking the health of the battery before performing the procedure. Sponsored by Nissan.
Top 10 Changes To Vehicles With Stop/Start Systems
A vehicle with a stop/start system is coming to your bays or might already be there. These systems can improve fuel economy by 3 to 5 percent depending on the driving habits of the customer. For your shop, it is essential to understand what is different on these vehicles and how it might change your diagnostic approach.
