Getting “Tuned” Into Exhaust System Service Opportunities
Although stainless steel exhaust systems have reduced the number of exhaust system replacements, it’s important to remember that regular exhaust system inspections remain an integral part of import service. When inspecting an exhaust system, remember that the exhaust pipe and muffler must: Help “tune” the engine for peak performance; Reduce noise to legal levels; Meet
Chrysler Neon 2.0L
When Chrysler introduced their new Neon models back in 1995 under the Dodge and Plymouth nameplates, they said they were launching a new generation of “fun-to-drive” entry-level cars that would appeal to a wide range of people. Everything was new about the Neon: a brand new body, a brand new chassis and two new engines,
Nissan Brake/ABS Service Essentials
If you’re an import specialist technician reading this magazine, you’re very familiar with brake repair and service. Although the nuts and bolts have changed little over the years, it’s never a bad idea to look at even the most routine job, since ABS has certainly redefined the problems we encounter as well as the changed
Selling Multi-Coil Ignition Parts
Time has indeed passed you by if you still believe in the traditional import engine tuneup. Many years ago, much of the import service market revolved around the annual spark plug, ignition cable, distributor cap and rotor replacement needed to maintain an import engine at peak efficiency. During the past decade, however, multi-coil waste-spark and
Mass Air Flow Operation Strategy
When diagnosing hot-wire air flow meters (A/F meters) on Subarus and similarly equipped Asian vehicles, technicians may find that, while the meter passes all recommended test procedures, the engine exhibits driveability conditions associated with lean air/fuel mixture ratios. In these cases, it’s best to form a diagnostic strategy based on the relatively simple operating principles
Filtering in New Opportunities
Your sniffling, sneezing customers could be just the sales opportunity your shop was itching for. That’s because consumers with severe allergies could benefit the most from a replacement of their vehicle’s cabin air filter (CAF). Allergy-affected customers may be the only ones you have who even know that their vehicle contains a cabin air filter.
Understanding Operating Strategies
As driveability technicians, we’ve been taught to solve diagnostic problems by gathering and analyzing data. Data usually comes in three basic forms, the first of which is sensory data that we can see, hear, smell or feel. The second form is measured values gathered by using test equipment like lab scopes and multimeters. The third
Engine Series: Proper Maintenance Can Extend an Odyssey
We all know that some vehicle owners don’t adhere to preventative maintenance schedules for their vehicles. So when a customer’s vehicle is in for a major problem or service, take advantage of in-depth system inspections. It may be one of the few times that you get to check the vehicle for severely worn parts. Although
Component Connection: Wiper Motors
If there is one system that vehicle owners believe is inhabited by Gremlins, it’s the windshield wipers. Unfortunately, car owners don’t normally realize there is a problem with the wiper system until they need them most – when it’s raining. No matter what type of car you service, when it comes to wiper-related problems, the
Boosting Your Shop’s Competitive Edge
What are the building blocks of your shop’s success? Lately, have you thought about what factors are directly linked to your shop’s profitability? Such an evaluation will provide direction for new initiatives and put the spotlight on areas where improvements are needed. In a recent survey of ImportCar readers, we asked, “What changes will you