Flashing Signals / Reprogramming PCMs
You don’t have to be Microsoft A+ certified to flash reprogram automotive PCMs, but the process requires a certain amount of know-how as well as special tools and access to the latest OEM software upgrades (which are not free!). What’s more, it’s not a risk-free endeavor. Certain precautions must be undertaken before you begin, and
Computers: Why You Can’t Do Business Today Without Them
It’s hard to imagine any automotive repair shop doing business today without the benefit of multiple computers. Yet some shops continue to do business and fix cars the "old fashioned way" with no computers whatsoever. I can’t help but wonder how much longer some of these shops will stay in business.
AAIA Recognizes World Class Technicians
Of the more than 871,000 automotive technicians working in the United States, nine outstanding individuals have qualified for the AAIA World Class Technician Award, the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) announced recently.
Jeep Tech Tip: Squeak-Like Sound from Front Bumper Crossmember
A customer may experience a squeak-like sound when driving slowly over driveway entrances, road bumps or when performing parking lot maneuvers. The squeak-like sound may occur when the vehicle body/frame is flexed (twists). This condition may occur when the front edge flange of either frame rail rubs against the backside of the front bumper crossmember.
Nissan Tech Tip: Pleasant Surprise – Plugging Head Leak
Any technician who has worked extensively with Asian-made vehicles has more than a casual acquaintance with head gasket replacements. It comes as no surprise that when you put an aluminum head on a cast iron block, the different expansion rates of the two metals will eventually weaken the head gasket.
Tech Tip: Diagnose and Repair ABS on Ford Trucks
As you are all very well aware, occasionally anti-lock brake system (ABS) malfunctions can be very complicated and hard to diagnose. In the case of some late-model Ford truck anti-lock brake systems, however, several malfunctions may have a very simple solution.
Tech Tip: Chevy Blazer’s Engine May Rattle Between 1,800 and 2,200 rpm
Some customers may comment on a rattle-type noise coming from the engine at approximately 1,800 to 2,200 rpm. The spark, rattle-type noise may be caused by torsional vibration of the balance shaft. If detonation noise is present, perform detonation/spark knock diagnostics first.
Tech Tip: Airtex Provides Fuel System Service Pointers
Fuel pump repair jobs involve complete, systematic diagnostic procedures and thorough evaluation of the entire fuel delivery system. It is important to convey the complexity of modern fuel delivery systems to customers, as fuel pump repair is no longer a matter of simply attaching a replacement unit.
Automotive Distribution Network Signs Agreement with Identifix
Identifix recently announced it has been recognized as a Preferred Provider to the Automotive Distribution Network. The Automotive Distribution Network consists of 46 members, 248 WD locations and $2-billion-plus in annual sales throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Kia Tech Tip: TCM Logic Revision
This bulletin provides information related to a logic change in the Transmission Control Module (TCM) for 2001 Rios, and 1998 through 2001 Sephia and Spectra vehicles built after Oct. 18, 2000.