Top 10 Most Common Vehicle Repairs
Basic maintenance is the key to keeping a car running at its best. When motorists keep up with fluid changes, tire checks, filter changes and other services, it helps avoid bigger and more expensive repairs down the road. However, over time, some vehicle parts and components wear out or become damaged. When motorists are educated about their vehicles’ maintenance needs, it allows them to address any issues before they become even bigger problems.
ACEA Oil Specifications: New ‘Sequences’ Mean Better Oil Performance Characteristics
ACEA standards are based on testing developed by the European Engine Lubricants Quality Management System (EELQMS). Think of ACEA as the SAE of Europe and EELQMS as the API/ILSAC in the U.S.
VIDEO: Oil Filter Leak? Think Again
If a customer comes back with an oil leak after service, you need to figure out what you missed – and fast! Find out some simple tips on oil filter repairs that will have you taking a second look at the adapter and even saving you some time later! Sponsored by MAHLE.
VIDEO: Thermostats And Oil Sludging
Andrew Markel explains how improper temperature control in the engine can lead to oil sludging in the valvetrain. Sponsored by MAHLE.
ACEA Oil Guide: Understanding European Motor Oils
ACEA standards are based on testing developed by the European Engine Lubricants Quality Management System (EELQMS). Think of ACEA as the SAE of Europe and EELQMS as the API/ILSAC in the U.S.
Timing Chain Stretch: It Could Be Neglected Oil Changes And The Wrong Oil
Timing chain stretch is not the stretching of the timing chain, it is an elongation of the timing chain caused by wear to the chain’s components. The most common cause of timing chain stretch is lack of maintenance and regular oil changes.
Oil Level Sensors – More Than A Warning Light
Oil level sensors have been used on import and domestic cars for more than a decade. Some of the first applications only monitored if the oil level was low using a switch attached to a float. The sensor would just trigger a message or light in the instrument cluster and only measured oil levels when the engine was not running.
What Is Oil Testing?
Oil specifications are not about the ingredients in the oil, but how the oil reacts to standardized conditions.
The Evolving Oil Change Market
The only constant in the oil change business is change itself, especially if you’re trying to maintain an inventory of engine oil for all makes and models of vehicles.
Engine Oil Specifications 101
Engine oil can be one of the most confusing and controversial products to select for a vehicle. The reason for this is that engines are becoming more stressed and require lubricants with specific attributes to protect and power gasoline engines with turbochargers, direct fuel injection and advanced internal components.
VIDEO: Relearning and Recalibrating Common Systems
Andrew Markel shows how a few common systems on late model vehicles can be relearned or recalibrated. Sponsored by ProDemand from Mitchell1.
ACURA: Oil Consumption On Manual Transmission Vehicles
In this updated TSB from 2013, Acura discusses how some 2011-’13 TSX models with manual transmissions can develop an oil consumption problem. The TSB states: “If you do not see any other factors contributing to oil consumption, consider engine braking as the possible cause.”
