Tech Tip: Follow These Steps Prior to Replacing Kia’s Catalytic Converter After Finding DTC P0422
Kia’s OBD II engine management systems use dual oxygen sensors, which among other things allow monitoring of the efficiency of the Manifold Catalytic Converter (MCC), also referred to as the “warmup” cat. Some technicians who retrieve DTC P0422 – Main Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1) mistakenly replace the catalytic converter under the floor of the vehicle (possibly because the converter under the car has been referred to as the “main” catalyst). This leads to repeat repairs, unnecessary expense and customer dissatisfaction.
Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensor Diagnosis
Nothing is more frustrating than diagnosing an intermittent cranking, no-start complaint with no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and no apparent failure pattern. Much of the time, the cranking, no-start complaint lies with a failing crankshaft or camshaft position sensor. Many of these failures can be heat-related and might require several warm-up cycles to duplicate.
Tech Feature: The Changing Face of Automatic Transmissions
Today’s computer systems have completely redefined automotive operation, particularly when it comes to transmission control.
Tech Tip: Saturn Crankshaft Position Relearn/Adaptives Reset Procedure
You may see a tell-tale service light flashes after replacement of the ECC on 1996 and newer Saturn vehicles. When this occurs, a Crankshaft Adaptives Reset Procedure and Crankshaft Position Relearn Procedure (Flash) must be performed.
Tenneco Adding Nearly 400 New Parts to Walker Exhaust Line
Tenneco Inc. will introduce nearly 400 new parts to its Walker line of replacement exhaust products in 2011 and dramatically expand foreign-nameplate application coverage available through its global Starla exhaust offering.
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.
Directions: E15 — Helping or Hurting American Drivers?
At Issue: E15 fuel blends could be available by March or April of 2011, assuming the EPA makes two approvals for use of E15 in 2001 cars and newer models by the end of the year.
EPA Allows for the Selling of E15 Fuel for Newer Vehicles
A decision on the use of E15 in model year 2001 to 2006 vehicles will be made after EPA receives the results of additional DOE testing, which is expected to be completed in November.
Mitch Schneider: At Any Rate…
I was out of the shop all day Thursday and most of Friday. Realistically, coming in just before three on a Friday afternoon didn’t seem to make much sense, but there was a “big job” that just “had to go out” – a project car with lots of hours. It seems like there is always a big job with lots of hours that just has to go out. So, let’s just say that going back to the shop on a Friday afternoon after being gone for a day-and-a-half wasn’t a first-choice option! Nevertheless, I found myself sitting at my desk at a quarter to three, drowning in a sea of unopened mail.
Tech Feature: The DeLorean – Back From the Past
The DeLorean was often referred to as “the ethical sports car,” leading to the relatively small V6 engine and stainless-over-fiberglass construction with good fuel economy and long life in mind.
Perspectives: California — Where CSI and PSI Meet
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has approved the “Regulation to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Vehicles Operating with Underinflated Tires” — a move that will affect your shop service.
Tech Feature: General Motor’s Ecotec 2.0L Turbo Engine
General Motors introduced its powerful Ecotec 2.0L direct