Beyond the Warranty Maintenance Checklist
What happens after the bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties wear out? If you look at any factory-recommended service intervals, after 100,000 miles they cease to exist. What does it take to keep a vehicle going for 120,000, 180,000 or 250,000 miles? The key is maintenance and
BMW Fuel System Repair Essentials
The BMW N54 fuel pump recall a few years ago brought to light the importance of the integrity of the fuel system and how it can contribute to the overall reliability of a vehicle. These fuel quality issues apply to all BMW vehicles with either port or direct injection. The underlying message here is that if the cleanliness and overall integrity of the fuel tank is ignored, it will damage any fuel pump. This is why addressing the fuel tank is essential during any pump replacement to prevent costly comebacks that can also hurt your reputation.
Net Neutrality Defeated: Are You Ready For The Big Slowdown?
When a shop logs on to the Internet, a lot of things are taken for granted. We assume that we will be able to access whatever website we want, whether it be an OEM service information website, video technician training or a website to order parts. Also, we assume that our websites are being treated the same no matter what network or device we are using to view them. But all that could change.
Performing A Brake Job On A 2007-2013 Toyota Tundra
For 2007, the Toyota Tundra was redesigned. The body changed, and the foundation brake system was also updated with larger front brake calipers and rear disc brakes. The control system and hydraulics changed with a new vehicle stability system that included yaw, steering angle and brake pedal load sensors.
Alignment Service On 2011 Hyundai Elantra
The current platform of the Hyundai Elantra shares a lot in common with the other current Kia and Hyundai models. The simple architecture of a MacPherson strut front suspension and rear twist beam axle is starting to become standard on all small and mid-sized offerings. The Elantra is a “net-build” vehicle with no built-in adjustments, but adjustments can be made with aftermarket parts.
Why Chasing The Cheapest Brake Job Costs Your Shop In The Long Run
Ever since the 1930s, there has been a war on the price of brake jobs. Eighty years ago, shops were advertising low-priced brake relines on sandwich boards for $19.99, but they complained about “gyps” selling brake jobs for $9.99 on the side of the road. We see almost the same situation today. This time the price point is around $150. Instead of gyps, shops are complaining about some guy on Craigslist who will perform a brake job for around $40 if he is provided with the pads.
Returning Brake Rotors To ‘Like New’ Condition
When it comes to returning brake rotors to “like new” condition, it is a two-step process that can be different every time. If the vehicle has a pulsation symptom or complaint, it pays to perform a diagnostic check before machining the rotor in terms of both time and additional parts sales.
Measuring Ball Joint Wear
Detecting and measuring wear in a ball joint is critical to ensuring the safety of a vehicle. When a ball joint fails, the driver loses control of the vehicle. This can result in damage not only to the suspension, but also the axle shafts, brakes and even the body.
10 Reasons Why You Don’t Sell More Loaded Shocks And Struts
Do you only look at the shocks and struts when the driver complains of a noise or when the vehicle can’t be aligned? This might be just one of several reasons you aren’t selling more loaded shocks and struts despite a vehicle’s need for them. Here are 10 tips to help you better identify the need for shocks and struts and for effectively educating your customers to make the sale.
Servicing The Nissan VQ35-Series Water Pump
At the top of the list for the most difficult water pumps to replace is the Nissan VQ-Series V6 engines. The pump is turned by the timing chain and is nestled in the engine block. This can make for a very difficult job no matter if the engine is mounted transversely or longitudinally. The VQ35-series of engines can be found in 2001-current Nissans and Infinitis.
Seven Spark Plug Myths Busted
If it fits, it will work. Spark plugs can be changed when the engine is hot. The thicker the wire means more of the fire! … False, all false. These are all spark plug myths. We bust these and a few others in this month’s look at spark plugs.
Stocking, Selling And Installing TPMS Sensor Service Kits
Every time a stem-mounted TPMS sensor is removed from a rim, it must be serviced – no ifs, ands or buts. This goes for sensors that are six months old to six years old. Always use a new kit. The typical kit includes a nut, valve core, grommets and valve cap. Each component has a specific function and lifespan that is not only determined by time, but what happens when it is installed.