Feature Articles

Mercedes-Benz Blind Spot Monitoring System

Mercedes-Benz Blind Spot Monitoring System

Blind spot assist systems use not only radar sensors, but also wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensors, door control modules, exterior mirrors, the entertainment system antenna, and more. For models with active blind spot assist technology, add anti-lock braking,...

Toyota Camry Crank No-Start 2GR-FE or not 2GR-FE

Toyota Camry Crank No-Start 2GR-FE or not 2GR-FE

The flashing lights of the tow truck made my heart sink. The last few vehicles that had been towed in should have gone straight to the salvage yard, not a repair shop. I was relieved when a clean, newer model Toyota Camry came off the back of the flatbed. This Camry...

Understanding Mitsubishi LIN Circuits

Understanding Mitsubishi LIN Circuits

A clear wiring schematic is your best friend when tracking down LIN faults Old school versus new school The quote from Aristotle serves as a reminder and the bitter taste of what happens when you don’t pay attention to modern technology. This is the story of a modern...

The Case of the Reluctant Titan

The Case of the Reluctant Titan

It appeared to be a textbook case of strangulation. But not so fast….. Harry looked up from the morning paper as a new case file slid across his desk. A detective’s desk is always cluttered. It’s in the rules. The file contained notes and documents for a 2006 Nissan...

Mercedes-Benz PRE-SAFE System Evolution

Mercedes-Benz PRE-SAFE System Evolution

Technology Advancements and Avoiding Service Snafus The Mercedes-Benz PRE-SAFE system was originally conceived as an engineering concept for a driver assistance system rooted in collision prevention and mitigation. The PRE-SAFE system was taken from an innovative...

StarTuned March 2021

StarTuned March 2021

In this issue: PRE-SAFE System Evolution • Spark Plug Procedures & Precautions • Automatic Transmission Perfection • CCP, Part 3 • Model 210 A/C Diagnosis • The Right Stuff (Service Fluids)

A Look Inside Volvo Turbo Technology

A Look Inside Volvo Turbo Technology

A Little History Volvo turbo The exhaust-driven turbocharger was invented back in 1905 by Swiss engineer Dr. Alfred Büchi in Germany. And the first mass produced turbocharged car engine was used in the Oldsmobile turbo Jetfire in 1962. This turbocharger was fitted to...

Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC Evolution

Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC Evolution

Introduced over three decades ago, this feature has gone through several generations. Do you understand how to handle them all? Most 4MATIC models will have this badge. Some early models didn’t, but customers can ask to have one installed. In the 1980s the automotive...

How Volvo Turbo Systems Work

How Volvo Turbo Systems Work

The turbocharger boost pressure in Volvos is controlled by the Boost Pressure Control (BPC) valve whose pressure regulator is affected by the pressure from the turbocharger. The Engine Control Module (ECM) determines current throttle angle and boost pressure to...

Understanding Mercedes-Benz Lane Keeping Assist

Understanding Mercedes-Benz Lane Keeping Assist

Understanding how steering, Electronic Stability Program, acceleration, braking, camera and radar sensors interact in the Mercedes-Benz Active Lane Keeping Assist program can help you maintain system reliability. It would be a shame if this beautiful 2021 GLA 35...