brake and front end Archives - Page 4 of 72 - TechShop Magazine
Chrysler Tech Tip: ETC Light Illuminated Or Diagnostic Trouble Code P2122 And/Or P2127 Set

Some customers may experience an ETC light illumination. Upon further investigation, the technician may find that DTCs P2122 – Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor 1 Circuit Low and/or P2127 – Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor 2 Circuit Low have been set.

Tech Tip: Ford/Lincoln Rear Brake Drag Or Rear Brake Noise

Some 2009-2010 Flex, MKS and 2010 Taurus and MKT may exhibit rear brake drag and/or off-brake cyclic noise. The noise may be caused by pad to piston misalignment or corrosion on the brake caliper bracket. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.

Dual-Clutch Transmissions: Coming To Your Shop Sooner Than You Think

A dual-clutch transmission is more than just two clutch plates where there was just one. The two clutches are not connected. The clutches power shafts with one nested inside the other. These input shafts connect to what could be called counter shafts that run parallel to each other.

Relearn Procedures Require TPMS Tool

Most vehicles require some type of “stationary” relearn procedure to reset the TPMS system. This requires a TPMS tool to activate each of the tire pressure sensors in a specified sequence so the TPMS control module can relearn their new locations.

Pay Close Attention To These Brake Hardware Items

If the caliper is not free to move, the culprit might be bent or binding mounting pins. Even if guide pins are not damaged, swollen or hardened guide seals or lack of lubrication may cause the caliper to bind resulting uneven pad wear. Always inspect all mounting surfaces and hardware for corrosion, wear or misalignment. Replace all mounting hardware and install a replacement caliper using the proper caliper lubricant.

Wheel Bearing Torque Dos and Don’ts

While it may appear to be easier to use an impact wrench, it is not recommended. OEM and bearing manufacturers always recommend using a torque wrench for installation. During removal, an impact wrench can damage the axle nut threads and shock the CV joints. It can also create a false sense of security when adjusting a nut or bolt, which may be under or over torqued.

Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Test Prep: Torque Converter Basics

The concept of using a torque converter, oil pump, planetary gear sets, clutches, bands and a computer-controlled hydraulic valve body to transmit torque and to change gear ratios is relatively simple. To illustrate, the torque converter allows the engine to idle in gear with the vehicle stopped and multiplies engine torque during the initial stages of acceleration.

VIEWPOINT:Monday Morning MIL Light Quarterback

Monday mornings are typically not very productive for me. I typically will hide in my office with the light off to avoid people asking about their latest weekend-induced car problems.

Tech Update: Electronic Stability Control

Electronic stability control (ESC) was introduced in 1995 and touted as the second most important advancement in auto safety, after seat belts, becoming standard equipment on every 2012 passenger vehicle. ESC is supposed to help drivers maintain safe control of their vehicles and prevent accidents. However, it’s the tires that determine the effectiveness of ESC for every vehicle.

Gonzo’s Toolbox: Driving, Drinking And Grandpa

On one of many slow days at the shop, I had a small job come in from one of the local tire shops. This rather young girl brought the car to me from the tire shop that’s just a few blocks away. She told me she was the owner and that the tire shop was rude and wouldn’t help her, so I called the tire shop to find out what was the deal.

Gonzo’s Toolbox: Sometimes You Get More Than What You Pay For … But That’s Not Always A Plus

One day, one of my customers called and said he just purchased a car from the police auction, but it had some sort of strange noise coming from the driver’s-side electric seat. It seems that every time he moved it, there was a strange electrical sound. He thought there was something wrong with the seat motor. He asked me, an auto electric technician, if I would take a look at it.

Tech Tip: Nissan Front Brake Caliper Fluid Residue

If you confirm there is oil residue on the brake caliper and it’s not assembly lubricant, refer to the Service Procedure as part of your normal brake diagnostic procedure. Note: Castor oil assembly lubricant is applied to the brake caliper when it’s built and some residue is normal. Do not replace the caliper for castor oil residue.