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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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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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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A major part of the diagnostic process is identifying an issue from a normal characteristic. Following are some examples of customer complaints that could be mistaken as a problem when they may be a normal occurrence for the application. DIESEL ENGINES AND NOISE-RELATED SYMPTOMS Customer complaints of ticking, clicking, or cycling noises on 2017–2022 GM […]
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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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Vehicle modifications can create some interesting challenges for a technician. The first step in the diagnostic process is a discussion with the vehicle owner, and if possible, have them accompany you on a road test. Always perform the basic diagnostic steps first. Determine if any modifications have been made to the vehicle. With today’s technology […]
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Often we are faced with customer complaints that are seemingly impossible to resolve. We methodically make our best diagnostic efforts and implement the necessary repairs to alleviate the customer’s complaint. Sometimes, our best efforts fail to provide a solution and when this happens, it looks bad on the technician and the parts supplier.
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