Service Repair | |||||||||||
 | Source: Motor Age Motor Age Garage: Acing the ExamJuly 1, 2008When I first started in this business, you could diagnose most running problems based on a generalized set of rules. Of course, this was in the day of carbureted engines and mechanical ignition systems. Today, the Engine Control Module (ECM) does a pretty good job of keeping an eye on things. While there are general methods used by the ECM for testing, the specific testing procedures programmed by an individual manufacturer can have an impact on how you proceed with your diagnosis and repair.
|
Source: Motor AgeTroubleshooting: Ice in the Oil FilterJune 1, 2008The oil in this (2001 Chevrolet K 1500's 5.3 Vortec) engine becomes contaminated with water after less than 200 miles after an oil change. There's no antifreeze present, and we pressure checked the cooling system and it holds pressure. There are no external intake manifold leaks, the PCV valve is clean and there's no moisture visible on the rocker arms.
|
Source: Motor AgeFactory BulletinsJune 1, 2008SRS light illumination and fault codes for the Occupant Position Detection Sensors (OPDS) have been the subject of a class action lawsuit. As part of the settlement, American Honda has extended the warranty on these sensors to 10 years or 157,750 miles. Not all vehicles are included in this coverage.
|
 | Source: Motor AgeServicing ImportsJune 1, 2008Introduced in 2003, the G35 was face-lifted in 2005 and there were some mechanical changes. The earlier car's Brembo brake calipers were dropped in favor of standard Nissan single-piston calipers.
|
 | Source: Motor AgeMotor Age Garage: Clickin' VickieJune 1, 2008When the 4.6L first appeared under the hood of brand new Crown Victorias back in 1992 (Town Car got it a year earlier), those of us who pounded the concrete and pulled steel in Ford dealership service departments expected a host of new problems. You know, those weak links in the chain that the engineers didn't catch before they released the new platform?
|
 | Source: Motor AgeAt a High PriceJune 1, 2008Servicing dual-mass flywheels is a challenge. Resurfacing or rebuilding a dual-mass flywheel (DMF) usually isn't an option. "Sticker shock" frequently results in replacement with a less expensive, solid flywheel. What about inspection and re-use? Here's what we learned from discussions with a number of DMF manufacturers and experts. First of all, why are so many auto manufacturers adopting DMFs?
|