Refrigerant Change from R-134a to HFO-1234yf is Underway
Beginning in 2011, HFO-1234yf was expected to come out on top as the new refrigerant of choice in Europe. While this issue may not affect repair shops and tire dealers in the U.S. for a while, some techs may already have seen HFO-1234yf systems, as European models begin the R-134a phase-out and make their way across the pond.
Sharpen Your Belts and Hoses Knowledge
When it comes to belts and hoses, installing the wrong product can have serious consequences. You must to be familiar with these products so you can help recommend your customers get the replacement belts and hoses that correctly match their needs.
Coil on Plug Ignition: The Wired Differences
For late-model vehicles, the norm is one ignition coil per cylinder, commonly known as coil on plug. However, An underhood comparison of a variety of vehicles reveals there are subtle differences among coils. For example, each individual coil may be connected to two, three or four control wires.
Fouled Engine Air Filter Can Damage Mass Air Flow Sensor
The mass airflow sensor includes a piece of very fine wire with an electronic device that measures the amount of air being sucked into the engine and relays that information to the electronic control unit. Based on this and other information, the ECU decides how much fuel should be injected and when.
Lube Bay Strategies for Vehicle Inspections
The traditionally recommended 3,000-mile oil change interval is now rapidly becoming part of automotive history, meaning shops may have a reduced number of repairs sold during a routine lube bay visit. Here’s how to check for added profits during a standard oil change.
Selling Modern Spark Plug Technology
Because modern engines run so well for so long, many customers have either forgotten or fail to understand the need for periodic spark plug replacements. For that reason, many spark plug replacements have become major repairs that often require two or three hours of time and a wide array of tooling to complete.
Cold Weather Brings Battery Sales Opportunities
If you live in the northern half of the country like I do, the hot summer will soon change to a cool fall. The leaves begin to change and the cold months of October and November will soon bring a rush of cold-weather battery performance complaints to your counter. Terminal VoltageIt’s imperative to remember the
Staying Active with Vehicle Electronics Technology
Cars keep getting smarter and safer all the time. First-generation air bags were essentially "dumb" devices that deployed in an accident to protect the driver and front seat passenger. When the bags proved to be too powerful and potentially lethal to children and small adults, second-generation "smart" air bags were introduced that adjusted their deployment
Modifying Consumer Oil Change Habits
Is it a good idea for your shop to try and save your customers 50% or more on their oil change services? With two simple steps, you and your customers may be able to significantly extend oil change intervals and save them money. The first step is to read the vehicle owner’s manual to find
Uncover Potential Profit Sources With Belt and Hose Inspections
Although belts and hoses are still classified as expendable parts, their durability has improved to the point that many dealers and technicians are now neglecting to perform routine belt and hose inspections. From a historical perspective, belts and hoses have moved from a recommended replacement interval to an inspection interval. This means that, unless otherwise
A/C Update: Quieting a Kia Climate Control System
This fix involves a Kia’s A/C system making a racket when the system is turned on. This revised bulletin replaces information published on Sept. 19, 2007, Climate Control 011. It readdresses some 2007-’08 Sorento (BL) models that may exhibit a knocking noise (mainly at idle) during A/C operation. A redesigned A/C compressor disc and hub
Oiling System 101: To Restrict or Not to Restrict?
Factory stock engine blocks were designed to be mass-produced economically and to operate in a passenger car environment. Original equipment oiling systems are typically restrictive and feed oil to the top of the engine first. The common practice has been to use a high-volume oil pump to offset these shortcomings and help the main bearings