Servicing Honda Civic Hybrid Vehicles
The number one problem with Honda Civic Hybrids has been the high-voltage IMA battery. The first generation cars use a 144-volt nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery, while second generation cars use a higher voltage 158.4V NiMH battery. Third generation cars use a totally different kind of battery, a Lithium-Ion 158V battery that is about 30% more powerful than that in the previous models.
Tech Tip: Toyota Fuel Gauge Inclination Meter Reset
Due to the unique bladder design of the 2001-’03 Prius fuel tank, it may be necessary to reset the fuel gauge inclination sensor if the combination meter has been replaced or the fuel level reading is determined to be inaccurate. Follow the procedure below to reset the fuel gauge inclination sensor ….
Be Sure to Ask the Right Questions when Choosing an Engine Supplier
Selecting a supplier of remanufactured engines, requires a great deal of care. You want to be sure that the company you select will not only provide your short-term needs, but that it is one you want to build a long-term relationship with. Just like good customers, good suppliers are hard to find.
Waiting until Tire Pressure Warning Light Comes on Can Be Dangerous for Motorists
As 2008 model year vehicles hit the road, motorists will find they are equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) that illuminate an on-dash warning light when the pressure in one or more tires is low. However, AAA warns motorists that the TPMS should not replace monthly tire pressure checks.
Have You Scheduled Your Annual Lift Inspections?
Sure, you see them every day, but when was the last time your vehicle lifts were thoroughly inspected by a qualified lift inspector? The Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) recommends that all vehicle lifts be inspected by a qualified inspector at least annually "in order to ensure reliability and allow the continued safe operation of the lift."
Environmentally-Friendly Clean Burn Energy Systems Offer Fast Return on Investment
Businesses looking to save on energy costs and reduce their used oil disposal liability can turn to Clean Burn. As a leading manufacturer of used oil furnaces, used oil boilers and used oil recycling centers, Clean Burn helps businesses worldwide generate free heat from used motor oils and petroleum based fluids commonly used in all types of combustion engines.
Combine Your Message with ‘Be Car Care Aware’
In the world of service and repair, it’s easy to become too familiar with your shop and the services you offer. It’s tempting to think, "We’ve been in this location for 20 years; everyone knows where we are and what we do." As a result, shops sometimes fail to communicate need-to-know information to their current and potential customer base.
Electronic Fuel Injection Turns 40, Remains Vital Technology for Vehicle Performance
It’s turning 40 this year, yet electronic fuel injection continues to be a viable technology extremely beneficial to our everyday driving experience. That’s hardly surprising, as it plays such a pivotal role in determining the smooth driving and performance most of us take for granted in our cars, vans or SUVs.
Four Seasons Offers Helpful Tips for Chrysler’s Flashing LEDs
Four Seasons offers the following tips to help professional technicians resolve Chrysler’s flashing LEDs. In many cases after the replacement of a battery, an HVAC control module or a door actuator, various button LEDs on the control module will begin to blink. This is due to a system requirement for actuator calibration to be performed.
The Impact of Lift Choice on the Bottom Line
A vehicle lift provides ergonomic, convenient access to all of a vehicle’s systems, enabling technicians to work as efficiently as possible for maximum productivity. Productivity is the key to shop profitability – the more jobs technicians complete in a timely manner, the higher the revenue.
Directions: The Evolving Story of Electric Vehicles
The latest chapter in the evolving story of electric vehicles (EV) begins with a tale of two very different models. One is downright sexy, with alluring aerodynamic lines and head-turning, sporty styling. The other is, well, downright cute — a spunky little thing that looks a bit like a colorful helmet on wheels. At first