Rotors and Pads: Analyzing Replacement Options
Although the industry has seen anti-lock braking systems (ABS) become standard equipment on modern imports, the majority of brake service still focuses on the replacement of brake pads and rotors. Rotor replacement, of course, has changed because new rotors have become a more cost-effective method of resolving pedal pulsation and brake shimmy problems associated with
Parking Brakes: The Forgotten Fourth Pedal…Or the Seldom-Used Stick
How Much Is Really Enough?
Basic Brake Hydraulics
Anyone who works on brakes should be familiar with basic hydraulics and the various components that make up the hydraulic portion of the brake system. So if you’re not as familiar with this subject as you should be, keep reading and we’ll refresh your memory. We’ll start at the heart of the system, which is
The Forgotten Fourth Pedal…Or…The Seldom-Used Stick
On some vehicles it is the forgotten fourth pedal. The emergency or parking brake is a critical component of the brake systems that should not be ignored. Though most motorists seldom use their parking brakes, it is a required safety device and must work properly when called upon to keep a vehicle stationary. The main
Brake Tech Update: Uncovering Brake Fluid Leaks on Acura Integras
The brake fluid level on 1994 Integras may be low in the ABS reservoir, and fluid may appear to be leaking from under the label on the ABS accumulator. The likely cause is that the ABS accumulator internal O-ring is damaged, allowing brake fluid to leak out. Diagnosis: Remove the label from the ABS accumulator.
Diagnostic Solutions: Charging System Service
Drive belts are an often-overlooked component during routine maintenance service intervals Drive belts last so long on late-model imports that it’s very easy to forget about inspecting them during a scheduled maintenance interval. In the early days of import cars, drive belts didn’t last as long because many were made from a leather belt joined
Brake System Service: Eliminating Noise and Vibration Problems
Brake noise and vibration are two things few people will tolerate for very long ‹ especially owners of high-performance European sports cars and luxury sedans that are renowned for their eye-popping stopping power. People who spend upward of $30,000 or more for an upscale Asian or European nameplate usually expect their brakes to be quiet.
Understanding Seals
It has been a long drive to the lake. The driver carefully backs the trailer down the boat ramp. As the axles hit the water, the hot wheel bearing hubs hit the water. As the bearings’ heat is quenched by the lake water on the outside of the hub, the rapidly contracting air and lubricants
Always Inspect Hardware During Brake Repairs
Though it isn’t required, many brake experts recommend replacing the drum hardware when the brakes are relined to restore the brakes to like-new condition. But often the hardware isn’t replaced because it doesn’t seem necessary. Unless the hardware is badly corroded or shows obvious signs of stress, like severe heat discoloration or other visible damage,
Checking into Mode $06
Mode 06 is the actual system test data that OBD II looks at when it decides to set a pending code or a current fault code. If the test data is within the limits established by the vehicle manufacturer, the item gets a PASS and no codes are set. But if a value is out of range, OBD II flags it with a FAIL and keeps an eye on the component until the system monitor has run at least twice. Then, if the problem is still there, a DTC is set and the MIL light comes on.
Selling Service for Low-Maintenance Ignition Systems
ition system maintenance as long as it feels like it’s “running good.” In reality, spark plugs eventually develop high electrical resistance because the electrodes wear away. When this happens, the secondary ignition voltage will increase until the ignition coil, ignition cable, spark plug boot or spark plug develops a high-voltage leak. When a high-voltage leak