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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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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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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GM TRANSFER CASE NOISES Customer complaints involving howling, whining, shudder or grinding noises during parking lot maneuvers in Auto Mode or highway speeds in 4HI or Auto may occur on four wheel drive GM trucks and SUV vehicles. Vehicles affected range from 2014–2023 year models. Specific applications can be identified in GM Service Bulletin 19-NA-136. […]
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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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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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Currently, a great debate is ensuing about when electric vehicles (EVs) will impact the industry on a large scale – and with this debate comes an onslaught of questions. What role will governments and manufacturers play in encouraging the sale and purchase of EVs? What will be the adoption rate by consumers? When will infrastructure, […]
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Hours spent in a hot, stifling vehicle can spoil a weekend getaway or vacation. Conducting a periodic under-hood inspection may help you spot air conditioning problems before they spoil your trip. Here’s what to look for: Note: Always be extremely careful any time you’re under the hood while the engine is running. Stay away from […]
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Did you know that the average American spends about $116.21 on Valentine’s Day? Flowers, candy, cards, and going out to eat are par for the course on February 14 to appreciate the ones you love, but what about your vehicle? This year, consider giving your car its own Valentine’s Day gift—the gift of maintenance. We’ve […]
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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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“What do you mean, ‘scheduled maintenance’? My car’s running just fine.” If you’ve ever felt the urge to tear your hair out when a customer says something like that, you’re not alone. People spend big bucks to buy sporty new cars or road-dominating pickups. Yet when it comes to servicing that vehicle, many balk because […]
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Despite these complicated times, Summer is still on its way in. Schools have let out, and travelers are hitting America’s highways and byways in their cars and RV’s in order to obtain some sense of normalcy for their families. Depending on your geographic location, treks through and to many U.S. destinations can involve some extreme […]
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A properly operating brake system is critical to safe vehicle operation and control under a variety of conditions. Brake Safety Awareness Month is the ideal time to stop and make sure your brakes are working properly before the new school year and colder temperatures arrive. “When it comes to vehicle safety, the brake system is […]
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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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April is National Car Care month, and now is the best time to get your vehicles in to your maintenance specialist for a comprehensive inspection. Systems in your car may have been neglected or damaged by winter conditions on the road, and now that the threat of severe winter weather is over, it’s time to […]
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