Getting the Most Out of Your Lifts
Lifts play an important role in the day-to-day operations of any automotive service facility. Some may even argue that a lift is a shop’s most valuable employee. After all, lifts never call in sick or go on vacation. However, one of the worst things a shop owner can do is fall into the trap of
Internal Engine Repairs: Why Head Gaskets Fail
A blown head gasket is bad news for any motorist. It means the cylinder head has to be removed, and possibly resurfaced, to replace the head gasket. If coolant has entered the cylinders and/or crankcase, additional repairs or a whole new engine may be needed depending on the extent of the damage. Anyway you look
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.
Saab 5-Speed Tranny and Clutch Repair
When Saab first introduced the 9000-model lineup in 1986, the gearbox was mounted transversely in the car. It was designed in this way for effective cooling and to provide the shortest possible path for the power flow to the wheels. All Saab transmissions have five forward speeds and reverse – all of which are synchronized.
Flash! Reprogramming Vehicle Computers
Typically, when someone brings up the subject of “flashing” you get two reactions. The technologically informed service professionals think about added revenue and service, while rowdier folks think about doing something that could land them in front of a judge. I think we can all agree that the first group is far better off, and
OHC Engine Repairs and Service on Chrysler’s 3.5L V6
Chrysler’s 24-valve 3.5L single overhead cam V6 engine was introduced back in 1993 in their LH platform cars (Chrysler Concorde, Dodge Intrepid and Eagle Vision). Since then it has been used in a variety of Chrysler models. The 3.5L engine is an even-firing power plant with aluminum cylinder heads, a single camshaft in each cylinder
A Tutorial in Hyundai Driveability
Diagnosing a driveability problem starts with the customer interview. When you are able to obtain the proper details about the vehicle’s symptoms, you will be able to diagnose the source of the problem more efficiently. Clues provided by the customer, such as “vehicle starts but runs rough until warm; worse when wet,” is invaluable information
2004 Underhood Service Repair Market Industry Profile
Welcome to the 2004 Underhood Service Repair Market Industry Profile, our in-depth report of the independent automotive repair market. Our profile below highlights many elements that are a part of doing business in today’s repair shops. The information presented is a good indicator to make short-term predictions about these independent automotive repair shops. It’s also
Subaru Steering & Axle Service
Here in the Northwestern part of the country, Subaru has become one of the top nameplates. The versatility of the all-wheel-drive system makes them the ideal ski team hauler or beachcomber vehicle. The compact station wagon design is the most popular model, due to its ability to haul people, and their equipment, in comfort and
GM Timing Belt & Chain Service
Some overhead cam engines in General Motors vehicles use timing belts to drive the cam (the 2.0L for example), some use chains (2.3L Quad Four, Cadillac’s Northstar dual overhead cam 4.6L V8, the Aurora Northstar 4.0L V8 and Chevy’s Vortec 4200 inline six), and some use a combination of both (Chevrolet’s 3.4L V6). The rest