5 Spark Plug Tips
Here are 5 little-known tips about spark plug replacement that you probably didn’t learn in school.
Alignment Spec: Why Did the Angles Change?
An alignment angle doesn’t change randomly. There is a cause-and-effect relationship between external and internal forces that can alter the geometry of a vehicle’s suspension. Having the alignment reading for only one angle on one corner is just like knowing the temperature without knowing if there is a tornado outside.
Top 10 Alignment Tips
A simple test drive can reveal a lot of problems that might have been otherwise overlooked. Sure, test drives take time, but so do comebacks. Think of it as a final quality-control check.
9 Rules of Bearing Replacement
Asymmetrical hub bearings are allowing larger wheel and tire packages to be installed on vehicles with extra weight or rolling resistance
Suspension Bushing Logic
Even if you can get the camber, caster and toe dialed in on the alignment rack, a weak bushing may cause suspension geometry to change once the vehicle is in motion. These dynamic changes are the reason why bushing inspection is critical.
Idle and Throttle-By-Wire Systems
When carbon and other deposits build up around the throttle plate, the air needed for idle is restricted. The response from the ECM is to increase the angle of the throttle to compensate. But if the values exceed a specified range, it may set a code. Here’s what you need to know.
Embracing ADAS!
ADAS systems need a vehicle’s visibility, electrical/charging, brake, suspension and steering components to be in good-working order to work their magic.
Alternator Testing Tips — One Test Is Not Enough
All too often, the alternator is condemned by technicians due to a battery voltage test alone. However, there are many circumstances to consider before dooming the part to the recycling bin.
Air Ride FAQs
When you are diagnosing a problem, it is critical to ask a lot of questions about the operation of the system. Then, research the reason why the problem is occurring to point you in the right diagnostic direction.
HVAC Sensors: More Than Just Temperature
Some vehicles also use passive infrared sensors mounted in the dash or an overhead console to monitor the body temperature of the vehicle’s occupants. This allows the system to fine-tune heating and cooling so everybody stays comfortable.
Ride Control and Electronic Stability Control
ESC systems use automatic computer-controlled braking of individual wheels to assist the driver in maintaining control in critical driving situations. Here’s what you need to know to keep your customers safe.
Alternator Testing: Diagnostics are Getting More Complicated
One test is not enough if you are diagnosing a charging system problem. All too often, the alternator is condemned as the source of the problem if only battery voltage is present with the engine running. If this is the case, it means that the alternator is not charging, but does not reveal why.
