Often, we are confronted with an electrical or performance issue that may not have reference to a diagnostic chart to assist in the diagnosis. When these conditions occur, a lot of diagnostic time can be invested without producing a solution. Many of these problem-solving solutions are resolved through information sharing from fellow technicians and that […]
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The C6 Corvette was just removed from winter storage and was about to receive a complete service. The engine roared to life and the instrument panel reflected a systems check. Bulbs were illuminated and would time out, indicating that systems or components were functioning as normal. Moments later, a warning lamp resembling an occupant holding […]
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Oil leaks are not a normal characteristic and if you are servicing a vehicle and leakage is present, it should be brought to the attention of the vehicle owner and documented on the repair order for future reference. Keep a copy just in case of engine damage that may occur later, especially if the repairs […]
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The vehicle received a full service including an oil and filter change. The system was leak checked and the engine had good oil pressure. Two days later, the customer calls reporting a loss of oil pressure symptom. Mechanic A says…a defective oil filter is the cause of the loss of oil pressure. Mechanic B says…a stuck […]
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Nothing is more frustrating for the vehicle owner than a puddle of oil on their carport floor or the stench of oil on a hot engine or exhaust system following a lube service. It is equally frustrating for the lube shop as they must correct the problem, losing billable labor time. We have seen customers […]
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When diagnosing engine performance complaints such as misfire symptoms, be advised that several systems and components can contribute to those symptoms. When considering single or multiple misfire codes, some checks may seem farfetched but trust me if not all are considered the symptoms can elude the most experienced technician, resulting in a misdiagnosis. When this […]
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The 2013 Ford F150 equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine was running perfectly. With the exception of a drop in fuel economy, there was no indication of a problem until the Check Engine light in the dash illuminated. A system scan revealed P2098 code stored in memory, which represents Post Catalyst Fuel Trim System Too […]
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Vehicles today incorporate a maze of electronic components that must be considered when troubleshooting a performance related symptom. A vast arsenal of test equipment is necessary to communicate with the electronic systems and components. Systems are so connected that it is difficult for the technician to distinguish between a mechanical, electrical, fuel or emission related […]
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When dealing with oil consumption complaints, how much should be considered as too excessive? Is the engine consuming an excessive amount of oil or should the amount consumed be considered a normal characteristic? This is especially a concern with the extended service intervals, which may result in the vehicle being driven twice the mileage when […]
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Turbocharged engines are becoming commonplace as the vehicle manufacturers are utilizing smaller displacement engines fitted with turbochargers. Turbochargers and direct fuel injection can make a smaller displacement engine behave like a larger displacement engine, while accomplishing better fuel economy. With this technology comes some challenges, especially in the area of required maintenance. Failure to provide […]
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Troubleshooting today’s technology can be challenging for even the most experienced technician. Making an accurate diagnosis, rather than throwing a lot of expensive parts and labor at the symptom can be a challenge. How would your shop handle the following customer complaints? a) Crank but no-start b) Hard starts c) Long crank time d) Misfire […]
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Failure to provide timely maintenance on a turbo-charged diesel engine can result in some expensive repairs, especially if it involves replacing a turbocharger or engine. The inexperienced may not realize how important some of the basic services are when servicing these applications. The turbo-diesel engines require a greater volume of air compared to a normal […]
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Neglecting maintenance intervals can result in performance issues and internal engine damage due to sludge deposits restricting the flow of lubricant to vital engine components. Evidence of lack of maintenance will normally show up in the oil filter and related housing. The filter media will be impacted with sludge deposits. Where applicable, the filter cap […]
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Customer complaints of rough idle, misfires, crank but no start or long crank time symptoms can be a challenge with today’s technology. Random or multiple misfire codes may be stored in memory. Symptoms that seem like an ignition related issue may actually be fuel related, carbon induced, or in some cases a normal characteristic. Fuel […]
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Low voltage conditions or the integrity of an electrical connection can pose some challenging events for the technician attempting to make an accurate diagnosis. In the world of automotive diagnostics, electrical problems have proven to be the most challenging, especially intermittent problems. Intermittent performance problems can be affected by connection-relate conditions and the presence of […]
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LOW FLUID LEVEL CAUSES POWER TRANSFER UNIT FAILURE Are you accurately checking those fluid levels and recommending fluid flushes or exchanges, where applicable? Unfortunately, many service technicians fall into a pattern of just performing lubrication services requested by the customer, which is usually triggered by a service reminder light indicating that it is time for […]
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Vehicles today incorporate a complex radio frequency system that controls many features such as Keyless Entry, Keyless Start/Stop, Remote Start and other electrical accessory components. Vehicle owners cherish these creature comforts as they eliminate the frustration of dealing with keys to control the same functions as the frequency-controlled devices. Often, they have a change of […]
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DODGE AND JEEP OIL FILTER IDENTIFICATION Precaution must be taken when selecting the correct oil filter for the 3.0L Turbo Diesel engines used in the following applications to prevent engine damage. The vehicle manufacturer cautions about the design differences in the GEN-2 and GEN-3 oil filter cartridges used in 3.0L diesel engines and the importance […]
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The true test of wiper durability is during the winter… snow and ice covering the windshield and the wiper blade. Proper wiper care in the winter is helpful but some perceived remedies could actually damage your wiping system, windshield, or the finish of your vehicle. If the car has been left out and the windshield […]
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Cars are a tremendous investment. Not only do they provide transportation from one destination to another, but they also symbolize freedom, a means to go wherever the road takes you. When an owner purchases a car, it typically comes with a warranty based on mileage and months. The purpose of the warranty is to protect […]
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