Beating Around the Bushings: BMW Suspension & Steering Joints
When diagnosing all-aluminum vehicle suspensions, technicians must consider the other components that may may be affected by the bushing installation process, or, based on the age of the replaced bushings, are likely to also need replacement soon.
Absolutes
Lessons learned from one engine are adapted and applied to the next and your process, and hopefully your percentage of successful outcomes increases as your skill and knowledge improves.
Volkswagen TechConnect Spring 2015
In this issue2.0 TSI Timing Belt Throttle-by-Wire A/C System Lubricant Genuine Parts Warranty
Perfect BMW Brake Service – We’re Not just “Hanging Pads” Here.
If you’re just “hanging pads” without doing a careful inspection and evaluation of the whole braking system, you’re doing both your customer and your shop a disservice.
Detroit Auto Show: The Return of Horsepower and Speed
Hybrids, electric cars and mileage efficiency be damned! It was all about speed and muscle in Detroit.
The Big Science of Pushrods, Part 1
There’s more to those tubular columns than you might think.
The Volkswagen Genuine Parts Warranty
Sure, there are some things you could get from the aftermarket, but nothing good happens if they fail.
the bimmer pub april 2015
In this issue: Perfect Brake Service; Beating Around the Bushings; Good Money in Maintenance; Aluminum Panels
Volkswagen A/C System Lubricant
Don’t Play the Universal Game
Lightning Does Strike Again – and Again – and Again…
Johnny Lightning makes great cars and trucks even better.
Goodbye Cable! Volkswagen’s Throttle-by-Wire
Today’s technician needs to know how this system integrates into the big picture of engine management.
Basics Series: The Life of a Lifter, Part 1
There are only a few basic rules to engine performance, just a few places where improvements are needed to increase output and reliability. A good first step to increase performance is to begin by increasing the efficiency of the air pump by decreasing inlet and outlet restrictions and by maximizing cylinder head flow.
Replacing the Volkswagen 2.0L TSI/BPY Timing Belt
Like all overhead cam engines in which the camshafts are belt-driven, the timing belt requires routine replacement as part of scheduled maintenance.
StarTuned March 2015
In this issue: Shake Down Driveline Vibration; Getting to know SAM; Reformulated Gasoline: Watch Out for Quality Variation!; Mercedes-Benz: Vehicle Safety Evolved
Matte Finish and Carbon Fiber, Oh My!
Pay close attention to the step-by-step refinish instructions and approved manufacturer matte paints to ease challenges faced with low-gloss matte exterior and carbon fiber bumper fascia and accent body panels.
A Turn for the Better: Nissan Electronic Power Steering
Electronic Power Steering (EPS) is becoming common on Nissan vehicles. Here’s some technical information and help for when the PS light comes on.
Vehicle Safety Evolved: Safety System Functionality During Collision Repair
Not that many years ago, the advanced safety systems found on Mercedes-Benz vehicles would’ve been considered science fiction, and there’s no question that they’ve helped prevent thousands of accidents. So, you sure don’t want to compromise their functionality during collision repair.
Selecting the Best Engine for a Vintage Vehicle
When the engine in a classic vehicle is in need of an overhaul or an upgrade, the question many people ask is should they rebuild their original engine or replace it with something more modern. There is also the option of installing a late-model computer-controlled fuel-injected engine, but most of these just don’t fit with the image of a classic when you open the hood. No matter what your or your customer’s choice is, you need to be sure the selected package matches the way they drive.
Reformulated Gasoline: Watch Out for Quality Variation!
Misfires, knocking, volatility problems and other issues can occur due to lack of adequate fuel quality controls. RFG quality variations can result in different engine performance from one tankful to the next.
Whatever Happened to the Ignition Switch?
A little confused about how Nissan ignition systems function? Here’s the help you need.
Go Modern, or Not?
In 2009, I bought my wife a 2008 Pontiac Torrent GXP leftover at a big-bargain price (about 1/3rd off the sticker!) because, alas, that once-fabulous GM division was being eliminated. That was the model with the 264 hp 3.6L Suzuki VVT V6 and GM six-speed.