Tech Tip: Blown Head Gasket Symptoms, Causes and Fixes
Early detection can prevent costly and time-consuming repairs. Bar’s Leaks provides some guidance on which product to recommend.
Tool Talk: Diagnosing ABS and Vehicle Stability Control Issues
The key to accurate diagnosis is having an enhanced scanner that will allow you to get into the system to retrieve fault codes and the appropriate data.
Tool Tip: Subaru Outback A/C Compressor Intermittently Shuts Off
Vehicle Application: 2004 Outback 3.0L Customer Concern and Initial Diagnostics: The A/C compressor intermittently shuts off. The technician called the Identifix Hotline with the following concerns and report. The customer drove the vehicle about 1/4 mile before it shut off the last time. If the engine was left running, the A/C stayed off. If the engine was
Tool Tip: Hyundai A/C Pressure Transducer Service Precautions
This bulletin provides important service information to properly remove and install the A/C pressure transducer (see Figure 1) during A/C system repair. Service Information: 1. When removing or installing the A/C pressure transducer, always support the hex portion of the sensor port with an open-ended wrench. See Figure 2. This prevents any damage to the A/C pipe
Honda Tech Tip: Brake Pedal Feels Hard In The Mornings Or In Cold Weather
The brake pedal can feel hard during the first couple of brake applications, usually in the morning when the ambient temperature is cold. To correct, replace the brake booster and the master cylinder rod seal, and update the PGM-FI software using the reflash capable scan tool.
Tooling Up For The Diagnostic Process
Automotive trainer John Forro advocates knowing your tooling needs and developing a strong relationship with those tools. Knowing a tool’s capabilities and limitations will help you advance your diagnostic process.
GM Tech Tip: Intermittent No Crank/No Start With MIL On And DTCs Set
This repair can be applied to any electrical connection including, but not limited to: lighting, body electrical, in-line connections, powertrain control sensors, etc. Do not over apply lubricant to the point where it prevents the full engagement of sealed connectors. A light coating on the terminal surfaces is sufficient to correct the condition.
Audi Tech Tip: MIL On With Multiple Low Fuel Pressure DTCs
Due to fuel intrusion into the low-pressure system fuel pressure sensor (G410), a false signal may be sent to the controller, resulting in a reading that is out of tolerance. Comparing Measure Value Block (MVB) 103 with 106 is not an accurate method to diagnose low-side fuel pressure sensor G410. In order to diagnose G410 accurately, use a mechanical gauge and compare results with the low-side fuel pressure Actual Value in MVB 103.
Tech Tip: Mercedes-Benz Battery Dash Light Illuminated
A Mercedes-Benz owner may complain that the vehicle’s battery/alternator “visit workshop” light on dash display is illuminated. Use a scan tool to perform guided tests. This alternator is internally regulated and is connected by a LIN bus to the PCM so that the regulation control can be intervened.
Tech Tip: Lexus Fuel Injector ‘Ticking’ Noise
Some customers with 2004-’05 model year RX 330 vehicles may complain of a “ticking” noise from the engine compartment when the engine is idling. Updated fuel main tube and fuel tube clamps are now available.
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: BMW Intermittent No-Start Problem With A Dead Battery
Some 2006 BMW vehicle owners may complain that their BMW has an intermittent no-start problem and the battery has gone dead. This may be the result of an incorrect battery or the comfort access module.