Tech Tip: VW TPMS Systems without Wheel Position Recognition
These vehicles use the Direct TPMS system.
Tech Tip: GMs, Hummers and Saabs May Experience Intermittent MIL with DTC P2138 and Reduced Power
Some customers may comment on an intermittent malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) being illuminated with a message or an indicator that displays Reduced Engine Power.
Tech Tip: Audi Has 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.
FREDS Tech Tip: SCI Interface FKTC
In this tip clip, Dave Hobbs talks about what to do if you have a vehicle with no PCM data. You plug in your brick, and you go to pull codes or look at PIDs in this late 90s, whatever, early 2000 Chrysler. It’s got CCD. You think you’re talking on the CCD. You’re actually talking on SCI, and scan tool just sits there and says no communications. What could the problem be? Is it a bad scan tool? Bad computer? Bad bus wires? Well, in this clip Dave gives some quick pointers on what to look for next.
This clip is an excerpt from the 240 minute comprehensive “F.R.E.D Kicks The CAN” with Dave Hobbs, available from Automotive Video.
Tool Tip: Code P0411 – Secondary Air Injection System Incorrect Air Flow Detected
The AIR solenoid is a normally closed solenoid. When the AIR solenoid is energized, the valve opens and air passes into the exhaust system. The AIR air pressure sensor operates similar to a manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP) with different values.
GM Tech Tip: Crankshaft Rear Main Oil Seal Leaks in Some 60-degree V6 GM Engines
Some GM owners may complain about external oil leaks from these engines. Before replacing the new design rear main oil seal, be sure the PCV system is operating correctly.
Tech Tip: Piston Ring Installation Tips
File fit ring sets require filing of the top and 2nd rings to achieve the correct end gap. To properly measure the ring gap, the ring should be square in the bore one inch down from the deck.
Tool Tip: 10 Diagnostic Tests for Smoke Machines Besides EVAP
A smoke machine may seem like an expensive piece of equipment if it is just used for testing EVAP systems. But, if you factor in other diagnostic tests it can perform, it is a worthwhile investment.
Tech Tip: VW/Audi Calipers Don’t Retract When Replacing Rear Brake Pads
Vehicle Applications: 2004 A8 Quattro 4.2 2005-’06 A6 Quattro 4.2 2005-’07 A6 Quattro 3.2 2005 A8 Quattro 4.2 and 6.0 2006 Passat 3.6 2006-’07 Passat 2.0 2009 Q5 3.2 Customer Concern: When replacing the rear brake pads, the technician cannot get the calipers to retract. Tests/Procedures: 1. With a factory-compatible scan tool, read and
Tool Tip: Drive Belt Misalignment Diagnostics
The EN-49228 Laser Belt Alignment tool was designed to help in eliminating drive belt noise as a result of misaligned pulleys. This precise, simple-to-use and time-saving tool is used to assist technicians in achieving accurate alignment of drive belt pulleys. This special service tool removes the guesswork from achieving proper alignment of the pulley and may reduce comebacks from drive belt noise, accelerated drive belt wear or drive belt slippage.
Tool Tip: Fixing a Cooling System that is Pressurizing, with Coolant Being Blown Out of the Expansion Tank
Solv-Tec offers tip on fixing this cooling system leak.
Tech Tip: Measuring Wall Thickness of Main and Rod Bearings
Although the best method to measure clearance between the crankshaft and crankshaft bearings is by using a bore gauge while the bearing is installed in the cylinder block or connecting rod, the question of measuring wall thickness of the bearings to calculate the clearances still comes up from time to time.