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When filters bulge, gaskets blow, or filters dislodge from their mounted position on the engine, the oil filter is almost always blamed. Some install the second or third filter still convinced the filter is the cause. The filter is the victim, as over pressurization is the reason for the event and these issues have plagued […]
Read MoreVehicles 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 […]
Read MoreFour-Wheel and All-Wheel Drive vehicles have flooded the market. Look around your neighborhood, parking lots, daily traffic routes, etc. They come in the form of trucks and SUVs, many of which will never encounter off-road or inclement weather conditions that would require a four-wheel drive application. With these additional driveline components come some challenges for […]
Read MoreWhen 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 […]
Read MoreTurbocharged 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 […]
Read MoreGM 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. […]
Read MoreScheduled vehicle maintenance makes good business sense, especially when compared to costly engine repairs or an engine replacement. Many vehicle owners unknowingly select a service interval that is not healthy for the engine or recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Most vehicle manufacturers offer two service schedules…Normal and Severe Service. These options have created much controversy […]
Read MoreTroubleshooting 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 […]
Read MoreWhen I started my career as a technician, performance-related diagnostics were not that challenging when compared to today’s technology. Most symptoms could be isolated to a fuel or ignition-related problem with a simple road test. Diagnostic equipment was limited to some basic tools such as a timing light, rpm/dwell meter, compression gauge, vacuum gauge, volt/ohm meter, […]
Read MoreFailure 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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