Debunking the Battery
In the automobile, the battery serves three main functions. First is the obvious. It supplies electrical power for the ignition system, starter, computer system, and every other electrical component while the engine is not running (or any other instance when the alternator is not charging). Second, it serves as a reserve power source, should the
Mastering Mercedes Multiplexing
“CAN” is the new buzz word in automobile diagnostics. It stands for Controller Area Network and is a protocol for onboard diagnostics and scan tools. CAN is a high-speed data link that provides more information at a faster rate for better communication between onboard electronics and external diagnostic equipment. Many manufacturers have already started incorporating
Brake System Service: Eliminating Noise and Vibration Problems
Brake noise and vibration are two things few people will tolerate for very long ‹ especially owners of high-performance European sports cars and luxury sedans that are renowned for their eye-popping stopping power. People who spend upward of $30,000 or more for an upscale Asian or European nameplate usually expect their brakes to be quiet.
Engine Maintenance: Head Gasket Failure Symptoms and Diagnosis
Over the last decade, the engines that have been used in the Honda and Acura line of cars and SUVs not only deliver many miles of service, but their performance level sets a standard that few car makers in their class have been able to match. Additional proof of both the reliability and potential of
Diagnostic Dilemmas: The Effects of Warm-Up Laps on a Running Engine
Most diagnostic technicians have experienced the frustrations of troubleshooting temperature-related engine performance problems. All too often, the true nature of the problem is concealed by the very fact that it occurs only at specific engine temperatures. If the engine quickly passes through the critical temperature range needed to duplicate the problem, the problem can easily
The Origins to a Breakdown
It’s interesting to see the look on a technician’s face as a vehicle gets towed into a shop on the back of a truck. That’s the opening scene for a no-start problem. You can usually tell when a technician thinks it’s good, and you can definitely tell when he thinks it’s bad. Not many techs
Why Go Digital? For Precision and Protection
These days, no matter what kind of automotive repair work you specialize in, virtually every system has a certain amount of electronics. Consequently, one diagnostic tool every technician needs is a digital multimeter. To figure out electrical and electronic problems, you have to “see” what’s going on inside the circuits and components. Trouble is, you
The Ins and Outs of Diagnosing Battery, Charging and Starter Problems
You answer the phone and the voice on the other end says, “My car won’t start.” When temperatures drop, the no-start calls start pouring in. Cold weather increases the strain on the battery, starting and charging system and tends to bring out any weaknesses in these components. Cold weather thickens the oil and makes the
Selling Oxygen Sensors
As modern OBD II technology marches on, it’s clear that the zirconia-based oxygen sensor now is being sold more as a basic repair part than as a preventive maintenance part, and it changes the way we diagnose and sell oxygen sensors. To illustrate the difference, let’s remember that an oxygen sensor replacement used to be
Aftermarket Update: Dana Launches New Automotive Website
Toledo, OH – Dana Corp. has launched its newly redesigned automotive website, located in the automotive section of www.dana.com. The new site offers expanded content and better navigation capabilities. Products are grouped into five main categories: • Architecture, which features products such as bi-metallic structures, cradles, frames, side rails, and twist beam axles; • Chassis,