Winter Starting And Charging System Maintenance
In addition to checking the strength of the antifreeze, a cold-weather starting inspection should also include testing and visually inspecting the battery and cables, starter, alternator and changing to the auto manufacturer’s recommended engine oil. Because cold weather slows down the chemical reaction between its electrolyte and its battery plates, the average battery can lose more than 50% of its cranking amperage at 0 degree F. For that reason, cold-weather starting quickly separates OE-specification from non-OE-specification batteries.
Beck/Arnley Adds 629 New Foreign Nameplate Part Numbers In First Half Of 2013
Beck/Arnley announces 629 new part numbers were added to its line of premium quality, genuine foreign nameplate products during the first six months of 2013. Highlights include two new OE Quality Hydraulic Fluids for European applications.
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Building A Plan For Diagnosing Electrical Problems
Every once in a while, I see the topic of a diagnostic check sheet come up on the International Automotive Technician’s Network (iATN) or other industry media. Most often, the question is asked by a shop owner or service writer who is trying to simplify his life by devising a “canned” step-by-step approach to solving various electronic diagnostic problems. Although a canned procedure is a good place to start, it’s not a sure-fire way to solving electronic problems.
Diagnosing A P0301 Misfire Code On A 2001 Mercedes-Benz E320 Sedan
Since the advent of OBD II, every vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated system that measures each cylinder’s contribution to engine power, becoming one of the most difficult challenges we face. Each time a cylinder fires, the misfire monitor uses a highly accurate crankshaft angle measurement to measure the crankshaft position. This system needs to have an accurate crankshaft position sensor that is able to read the crankshaft position, even at high RPM, sending a clear signal to the PCM. Then the PCM monitors the crankshaft acceleration time for each cylinder at the firing time.
Summer Heat Means Time To Check Auto Battery
Have you noticed the temperatures already starting to creep up the thermometer? Summer heat causes more stress on a car battery than cold winter temperatures.
Tech Talk: Electric Vehicle Conversion
The electric vehicle’s (EV) popularity among consumers is rising due to its zero emissions, increased efficiency and lower operating costs. While some will choose to purchase a new EV, there has been a growing group of enthusiasts who would rather convert or have someone else switch their petroleum-burning vehicles into electric drive.
Pulling Codes – A Hybrid Story: The Story Of P1A10
This article documents the code P1A10-Hybrid Powertrain Control Module-Battery Disabled found on a 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid 2.3L. Code P1A10 involves a possible interlock problem with the system. Our subject vehicle was a former police vehicle purchased at an auction – for $1! – in very poor condition. It does not run or power up, and both cluster displays are blank.
Bosch Celebrates 100th Anniversary Of Its Rotating Electrical Products With 15 New Part Numbers
Robert Bosch LLC is celebrating its 100th anniversary of producing alternators and starters with 15 new additions to its line of remanufactured products. Designed for European vehicles in the aftermarket, these new part numbers cover Audi/VW, BMW, Mercedes, Mini, Porsche, Saab and Volvo, and cover 1.45 million vehicles on the road in the United States and Canada.
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Changes In Our Diagnostic Outlook
Everybody likes to read about a Diagnostic Dilemma that has been solved to everybody’s satisfaction. But this month I have an unsolved Diagnostic Dilemma that is more about customers than cars. This particular dilemma involves a 2005 Ford Crown Victoria with headlamps that randomly lose power during night driving.
Memory Lane: Welcome To My World
I have often been accused of living in a time warp. And, I would have to plead guilty, but with an explanation. All of my customers are working on vehicles that are 60+ years old or older, so that’s the environment I am in every day.
Mercedes-Benz Tech Tip: Insufficient Alternator/Generator Output
On select Mercedes-Benz model vehicles, if you encounter insufficient alternator/generator (G2) output, the voltage regulator, integral to G2 output, may be malfunctioning. The voltage regulator may be replaced as a separate part and the procedure in this Tech Tip should be followed.
Tech Tip: Mazda Air Intake Selector Mode Switch Failure
Some Mazda6 vehicles may experience an air selector mode switch that will not switch into recirculation mode. This condition may be caused by a lack of continuity in the mode switch.