The PCM Effect on Oil Service
As with everything else under the automotive sun, technology is changing the lube, oil and filter market. More specifically, modern technology is making it possible to use the vehicle’s on-board engine management system to mathematically determine the length of an oil change interval. At the most basic level, the PCM simply adds up the mileage
Odds & Ends: Underhood Service
Cool Amphibious Manufacturers International LLC has developed the Hydra Spyder – an amphibious vehicle that can travel on both the water or on the road. Promoted as “unsinkable,” this vehicle contains positive floatation foam approved by the United States Coast Guard. The convertible Hydra Spyder can seat four people for comfortable drives on land, and
Tech Tip: Curing Honda Rear Suspension Noise and ABS Pump Maladies
Certain 1988-2000 Civics may exhibit a clunk or squeak from the rear suspension when driven over rough or bumpy roads. The probable cause is a broken rear trailing arm bushing(s).
Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper Races into Second Season with Evernham Motorsports
As a NASCAR sponsor of Evernham Motorsports, Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, parent company of Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper, will receive primary status on the No. 10 Dodge in the 2006 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series and on the No. 9 Dodge in the Busch Series.
Tech Tip: Causes and Cures for Disc Brake Problems
There are as many causes as there are cures for disc brake problems. Brake pedal pulsation heads the list, while disc brake noise and brake pedal sensitivity follow as second and third place contenders. Most of these problems can be avoided if technicians have the right parts and follow the correct procedures.
Optimum Driving Comfort and Low Fuel Consumption – DualTronic Transmission Technology from BorgWarner
The new transmission concept has its origins in motorsports. Back in the 1970s, it was Porsche who developed the first dual-clutch gearbox for its Group C Porsche 962. The advanced technology finally made its debut in series production development in 2003 in the VW Golf R32 DSG (direct-shift gearbox) and the Audi TT 3.2.
Tech Tips: Brake Lubricants – High Temperatures Require High Performance Products
When it comes to brake lubricants, grease is a dirty word. Brake lubricants are specially-formulated products that are NOT the same as ordinary chassis grease or even multi-purpose grease.
Shop Management: Uncovering Missed Service
Uncovering missed service can bring an instant profit, while at the same time resulting in customer gratification. Unfortunately, some services are often overlooked in our daily routine. It’s easy to gain tunnel vision in this business, only fixing what the car came in for, while ignoring the rest of the vehicle. Whether it’s because of time constraints, or some other reason, some services just get forgotten about.
Suspension Vibration Diagnosis
The song “Good Vibrations” by the Beach Boys may have been a big hit in its day, but there’s no such thing as good vibrations or noise when it comes to a customer’s vehicle. Vibrations are annoying and may be a warning signal that something is amiss. So don’t ignore such symptoms. Investigate any unusual
Looming Mandate: Without Help, Shops Face Dark Future
…How Will You Cope?