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Wednesday, 7 October 2015

Stopping and Steering are Keys to Driving Safely

There are more vehicles on U.S. roads than ever before. With an estimated 240.5 million cars and light trucks crowding our roads as of 2011, your safety and that of others is at risk when your vehicle isn't stopping and steering at its best. Reducing your vehicle's stopping distance by just an inch or so could make the difference between a minor scare and a major fender bender.

Crowded roads aren't the only concern. The roads themselves are often in a sorry state of repair. Portions of our highway system (including many bridges) haven't seen much in the way of maintenance or repair since they were built.

In cold climates, the freeze/thaw cycle enlarges cracks and holes in the pavement. In sunnier spots, the heat, heavy cargo hauling and years of neglect take their own toll on roads. The result can be a moonscape of potholes that can affect the handling of your vehicle. Bad roads can cause suspension components, so vital to steering control and handling, to grow old before their time.

But you don't have to be an automotive expert to keep your vehicle's stopping and steering systems safe. An ASE-certified brake service technician is trained to diagnose problems and identify potential areas of concern, such as checking thickness of rotors and identifying worn brake lines and hoses.

Pay a little now, or a lot later

Putting off repairs for too long results in growing costs. For example, let’s look at a typical brake job. Not only will you have to buy new brake pads, but add in new brake rotors as well to replace the ones that were ruined by procrastination.

New rotors can range from $50 to $250 or more, depending upon the vehicle application — and that's foreach wheel. Even if normal wear dictates rotor replacement, the upside is that it could be the last time you'll ever replace them before you trade in the vehicle.

It's important to perform needed maintenance early. Allowing the situation to bloom into an expensive repair threatens the practicality of keeping your paid-for wheels on the road. If you made 36, 48 or even 60 monthly payments without flinching in order to buy the car, but don't like to pay for maintenance, try considering it as a short-term "car payment" that only has to be made occasionally.

Safety tips for brake service:

Invest in a top-quality brake pads.
If any rotors are marginal for continued service after refinishing (too thin or very close to the minimum thickness specification), have them replaced. An ASE-certified technician can compare the specification dimension and your rotors' actual thickness for you on request. If you own an older vehicle equipped with original equipment (OE) rotors, be prepared to replace them at this time.
Have the brake calipers inspected to ensure that any moving parts, such as slides and bleeder screws, haven't corroded and frozen up.
Don't always jump at the lowest quoted price for your brake job. A low price quote can mean that you're not getting the complete brake system serviced.

Remember, there are cheap jobs that use basic components. There are also more-expensive jobs that use premium components. When evaluating the cost of any vehicle repair or maintenance, consider the quality of work and the parts. What's the cost difference between the two? Which one would you trust most?

Beyond basic brake pads and rotor replacement or resurfacing, ask for quotations on the following expanded parts and services if you own an older vehicle:

If your brake hydraulic system has never been flushed, consider having it serviced to remove moisture and impurities from the fluid reservoir, lines, calipers and/or wheel cylinders.
Have rubber-type flex brake hoses replaced when they're hard, cracked or simply old.
When rotors are being resurfaced for reuse, request inspection of the wheel bearings.
On rear-wheel-drive cars or trucks, have the front wheel bearings inspected and repacked with new grease, along with replacing the seals. Don't take the chance of being stranded over an inexpensive bearing or seal.
For drum brake applications, ask to have a new brake hardware kit installed when the brake shoes are replaced and the drums are refinished. The technician should ensure that each assembly's wheel cylinder pistons, starwheel adjuster and bleeder screw aren't sticking or seized.
Have your emergency brake assembly tested periodically. Have it repaired or adjusted if necessary.

This approach to vehicle maintenance may cost a little more up front, but if you make the investment now, you can be sure that-old or new-your car or truck will stop in the shortest distance possible-and be able to steer around trouble.

If your vehicle is more than five years old and has only had brake pad and rotor servicing in the past, it's generally appropriate to have the items from our expanded list serviced or replaced.

To find a local ASE Blue Seal Shop that can help you keep your vehicle in top condition, visit our ASE Blue Seal Shop Locator page.

SIDEBAR:

An ‘Epidemic’ of Unperformed Maintenance
Consider these facts regarding vehicles and maintenance:

In its Automotive Aftermarket Status Report 2012, analysts at the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) reported unperformed vehicle maintenance across the entire U.S. fleet had grown to $62 billion in 2010, compared to $54 billion a year earlier.
According to a 2005 Car Care Council report, poorly maintained vehicles account for 5 percent of all accidents, causing more than $2 billion in property damage, lost wages and medical expenses.
The average age of cars on today’s U.S. roads is more than 11 years, according to a 2011 study by Polk, a Southfield, Mich.-based research firm. Light-duty trucks average 10.4 years old, and the average age of the U.S. fleet is 10.8 years old.

Arbitrarily dividing the unperformed maintenance amount by an assumed (and generous) average repair cost of $300 per vehicle across the entire car and light truck fleet potentially indicates that 206.6 million vehicles need some type of maintenance and repair.

Amazingly, this suggests that more than 85 percent of the entire passenger car and light truck fleet suffers from some form of unperformed maintenance. If your vehicle is over five years old, the likelihood that it needs maintenance or service of any type climbs dramatically.

ASE: What's in It for Car Owners

ASE Certification Program Helps Take the Guesswork Out of Finding a Good Technician

Finding a competent auto technician need not be a matter of chance. Much of the guesswork has been eliminated, thanks to the national program conducted by the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). ASE tests and certifies automotive professionals in all major technical areas of repair and service. With more than 300,000 currently certified professionals, the ASE program is national in scope and has industry-wide acceptance and recognition. ASE-certified technicians and parts specialists can be found at every type of repair facility, from dealerships, service stations, and franchises to parts stores, independent garages, and even municipal fleets.

Certification Benefits Motorists
ASE certifies the technical competence of individual technicians, not repair facilities. Before taking ASE certification tests, many technicians attend training classes or study on their own in order to brush up on their knowledge. By passing difficult, national tests, ASE certified technicians prove their technical competence to themselves, to their employers, and to their customers. What's more, because the ASE program is primarily voluntary, ASE certification becomes a self-selecting credential that weeds out the incompetent. And while ASE does not certify repair shops or police individual business practices, it stands to reason that those shop owners and managers who support their service employees' efforts to become technically certified will be as concerned about the other aspects of their business as well.

How Certification Works
About 150,000 technicians take ASE tests each year at over 400 locations around the country. Technicians who pass at least one exam and fulfill the work experience requirement become ASE certified. Those who pass a battery of exams (and fulfill the experience requirement) earn Master Technician status. The tests, developed by industry experts with oversight from ASE's own in-house professional technicians, are administered by Prometric, one of the most well-known testing organizations in the world.

There are specialty exams covering all major areas of repair. There are eight tests for auto technicians alone: Engine Repair, Engine Performance, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Brakes, Heating and Air Conditioning, Suspension and Steering, Manual Drive Train and Axles, and Automatic Transmissions. (There are also exams for collision repair/paint technicians, damage estimators, parts specialists, and others.) ASE certification is not for life. ASE requires technicians to re-test every five years to keep up with technology and to remain certified. All ASE credentials have expiration dates.

Finding ASE-Certified Technicians
Repair establishments with at least one ASE technician are permitted to display the ASE sign. Each ASE professional is issued personalized credentials listing his or her exact area(s) of certification and an appropriate shoulder insignia. Technicians are also issued certificates that employers often post in the customer-service area. And employers often display the blue and white ASE sign as well.

Businesses with a high level of commitment to the ASE program (75 percent of service personnel certified) are entitled to a special "Blue Seal of Excellence" recognition from ASE. These elite facilities are among the best in the national. More than 1,500 businesses participate in this growing program.

Choosing the Right Technician
As with other professionals-physicians come to mind--automotive technicians often specialize. So it's wise to ask the shop owner or service manager for a technician who is certified in the appropriate area, say, brakes, engine repair, or air conditioning.

For ASE’s Glove Box Tips, click here.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was founded in 1972 as a non-profit, independent organization dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians. ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia and carry credentials listing their exact area(s) of certification. Their employers often display the blue and white ASE sign.

Tomorrow's Environmentally "Clean/Green" Vehicles Are Here Today

The future is closer than you think. Manufacturers are offering "clean and green" vehicles today. Motorists can now purchase a variety of "super low-emission vehicles," known as SULEVs - from dealers around the country. SULEV gasoline/electric hybrid vehicles from Toyota and Honda are selling briskly, and many more offerings are coming. Alternate-fueled vehicles - those that run on natural gas, propane, ethanol or methanol - are also considered clean vehicles and are commercially viable. These alternate fuel vehicles, or AFVs, may be more suitable for car, truck and bus fleets where centralized refueling is available, but they're definitely low on emissions and offer real maintenance and fuel savings.

Zero-Emission Vehicles

For purists, ZEVs, or zero-emission vehicles, are available on a limited basis (mainly in California or in the South). Typically they are battery-electric powered. Some individuals are using EVs as commuter cars or neighborhood vehicles, but most battery-electric vehicles are used for stop-and- go mail and courier delivery, meter enforcement, etc. They're also found in gated communities, on campuses, at zoos, parks, etc. These vehicles are typically charged overnight or recharged between trips; they offer considerable fuel and maintenance savings along with zero on-road emissions. But because of their limited range, EVs are admittedly considered "niche market" vehicles.

Hybrids Gaining in Popularity

EV technology has contributed to the success of today's more versatile hybrid-electric vehicles. Gasoline/electric hybrids are not range limited, can get exceptional mileage, and are rated as SULEVs. Hybrids generally work by using an engine and generator in harmony with one or more energy storage devices such as batteries. Managed by sophisticated computers, today's hybrids may use battery-only power at low speeds, or a combination of battery and engine power for accelerating and hill climbing - the batteries serving as an "electric supercharger." Under cruise conditions, the engine runs a generator as needed to re-charge the batteries and propel the vehicle. When going downhill, coasting or braking, otherwise-wasted vehicle inertia runs the generator for re-charging the batteries, and the engine shuts off, adding to miles-per-gallon.

For now, hybrid-electrics seem the most popular choice. Hybrids are achieving 70 mpg and more. Greater numbers of these gasoline/electric autos, vans, pickups and SUVs will be for sale in the next couple of years.

The Future

Longer-term projections indicate that hybrid-powered vehicles of all stripes will gain considerable market share over conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles in the next 10 to 20 years. Purchase prices will depend on economies of scale, and government and auto manufacturer subsidies. Widespread acceptance of hybrids would mean far less petroleum would be consumed, which translates to both lower overall grams-per-mile of emissions and a greater degree of energy independence.

Most industry experts predict that the gasoline or diesel powered hybrid is an interim step towards achieving near pollution-free transportation. The ultimate in zero-emission vehicles are hybrids that use the hydrogen fuel-cell engine. Hydrogen is reacted (not burned) in the fuel cell to generate electricity for the vehicle's traction motor(s) and for charging the batteries. When run on pure hydrogen, fuel-cell vehicles (FCVs) produce no harmful emission and are more fuel-efficient than the best vehicles with internal combustion engines.

According to the Society of Automotive Engineers, "Most major auto manufacturers have announced plans to commercialize [fuel cell powered] cars in 2003 or 2004." But improving the technology and lowering the cost of fuel cell production and materials is a key factor for market success. An American Methanol Institute report predicts that by 2020, seven to 20% of all new cars sold will be powered by fuel cells. Government subsidies and market demand for fuel cells and FCVs (fuel cell vehicles) has resulted in an increasing number of companies striking innovative deals to bring fuel cell technology to the marketplace. Numerous fuel cell powered cars, trucks, vans, and transit buses already exist.

Adding impetus to development of FCVs is President Bush's recent announcement of the Freedom CAR (Freedom Cooperative Automotive Research) program. This program will focus on the technologies needed to build affordable, clean, mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell vehicles along with those needed for a hydrogen-fueling infrastructure using domestic energy sources.

The future is coming, and sooner than most people realize. For those impatient with the pace of progress, consider how far we've already come: Today's conventional cars could actually run on the tailpipe emissions of cars produced in the 1960s, thanks in large part to on-board vehicle technology.

For ASE’s Glove Box Tips, click here.

Springtime Auto Tips

Spring is one of the prime times for auto maintenance. That first wash-n-wax on a warm Saturday afternoon is liberating. Winter's gloom (to say nothing of grit and road salt) is literally washed away. Take out the snow shovel, the gloves, and heavy boots and store them 'til next season. Surely summer can't be far away.

Some preparation now will help ensure that your summer driving plans go as smoothly as you envision then now. ASE offer the following tips on getting your vehicle ready for summer.

Read the owner's manual and follow the recommended service schedules.
Have hard starts, rough idling, stalling, etc. corrected before hot weather sets in.
Flush and refill the cooling system (radiator) according to the service manual's recommendations. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically.
If you are not a do-it-yourselfer, look for repair facilities that employ ASE-certified automotive technicians.
The tightness and condition of belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a qualified auto technician.
Have a marginally operating air conditioner system serviced by a qualified technician to reduce the likelihood of more costly repairs.
Change the oil and oil filter as specified in owner's manual. (Properly dispose of used oil.)
Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended.
Check the condition of tires, including the spare. Always check tire pressure when the tires are cold.
Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs.
Replace worn wiper blades and keep plenty of washer solvent on hand to combat summer's dust and insects.

For ASE’s Glove Box Tips, click here.

End of Summer Marks Perfect Time for Car Care

Preventative maintenance now can help ensure worry-free driving this winter

The vacations are over, the kids are back in school and cooler evenings have begun. Take advantage of the lull to prepare your vehicle for the winter ahead, advise the pros and the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Breakdowns, never convenient, can be dangerous in cold weather period.

The following tips from ASE should give parent and student alike a road map to fall car care.

First things first

Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules. There are usually two schedules listed: normal and severe.

Engine Performance

Have engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather will make existing problems worse. Replace dirty filtersair, fuel, PCV, etc.

Fuel

Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note, too, that a gas tank that’s kept filled helps prevent moisture from forming in the first place.

Oil

Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual more often (every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.

Cooling System

The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) If you’re doing your own work, allow the radiator to cool down completely before removing the cap. (Newer vehicles have coolant reservoirs.) The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a certified auto technician.

Heater/Defroster

The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.

Windshield Wipers

Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent you’ll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.

Battery

The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. But do-it-yourselfers can do routine maintenance. Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly.

A word of caution:

Be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves. Note too that removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data/codes on some newer vehicles so refer to your manual for instructions.

Lights

Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses with a moistened cloth or towel. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.

Exhaust System

Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.

Tires

Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires “cool down” before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.

Emergencies

Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.

For ASE’ Glove Box Tips, click here.

Ten Tips for SUV Owners

It's a rare motorist who doesn't have strong feelings about today's sport utility vehicles. Love 'em or hate 'em, one thing is certain-just like their automobile cousins, SUVs last longer, operate more efficiently, and command a higher resale value when they are properly maintained and serviced.

For those too busy or too overwhelmed by modern vehicles to perform their own maintenance, the pros at the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offer some advice on choosing a repair establishment:

Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one.
Ask friends and associates for recommendations; consult local consumer organizations.
Arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you will not feel forced to choose a shop based solely on location.
Look for a neat, well organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.
Look for a courteous staff, with a service writer willing to answer all of your questions.
Look for posted policies regarding labor rates, diagnostic fees, guarantees, acceptable methods of payment, etc.
Ask if the repair facility usually handles your type of repair work.
Start off with a minor job and progress to more complex work if you are pleased with the establishment.
Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area such as civic, community, or customer service awards.
Look for evidence of qualified technicians: trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work, and certification of the technicians by ASE.

For ASE’s Glove Box Tips, click here.

Gas-Saving Tips for Your Auto

While it is always wise to conserve natural resources, the recent price of gasoline has made even the most wasteful people think twice. Whatever your motivation, here are some gas saving tips from the pros at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

Monitor tires. Under inflated tires or poorly aligned wheels waste fuel by forcing the engine to work harder. (Let the tires cool down before checking the air pressure.) Out-of-line wheels, as evidenced by uneven tread wear, should be aligned by a professional.

Remove excess weight. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Store only essentials in the trunk. Less weight means better mileage.

Consolidate trips and errands. Some trips may be unnecessary. Also, try to travel when traffic is light so you can avoid stop-and-go conditions.

Avoid excessive idling. Shut off the engine while waiting for friends and family.

Observe speed limits. Speeding decreases your miles per gallon.

Drive gently. Sudden accelerations guzzle gas. Anticipate traffic patterns ahead and adjust your speed gradually.

Use windows and air conditioning wisely. Your mileage should improve if you keep the windows closed at highway speeds, since air drag is reduced. This is true even with the air conditioning on-assuming that the system is in good working order. But turn the air conditioning off in stop-and-go traffic to save fuel.

Keep your engine "tuned up." A well-maintained engine operates at peak efficiency, maximizing gas mileage. Follow the service schedules listed in the owner's manual. Replace filters and fluids as recommended; have engine performance problems (rough idling, poor acceleration, etc.) corrected at a repair facility. Given today's high-tech engines, it's wise to have this type of work done by auto technicians who are ASE certified in engine performance.

These conservation tips will not only save gasoline, they'll help extend the life of your vehicle. Win-win, indeed.

For ASE’s Glove Box Tips, click here.

It's Easy Being "Green"

Motorists can do their part to help the environment by practicing a few 'earth-friendly' car care habits, note the experts at the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It all comes down to timely vehicle maintenance and non-aggressive driving.

Here are specific suggestions from ASE:

Slow down. Speeding and hard accelerations waste gasoline. Use cruise-control on highways to maintain a steady pace. When waiting for friends or family, shut off the engine. Consolidate daily errands.
Lighten up. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle to reduce weight.
Don't pollute. Dispose of used motor oil, antifreeze/coolant, and old batteries properly. Some repair facilities accept these items. Or call your local government. Keep the engine running at its peak-a misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30%. Replace filters and fluids as recommended by the owner's manual.
Get pumped. Keep the tires properly inflated and aligned. Under-inflated tires waste fuel by forcing the vehicle's engine to work harder. Moreover, properly maintained tires last longer, saving you money and lessening the burden at landfills.
Know your limitations. If you are not a do-it-yourselfer, find a good technician. Ask friends for recommendations. Check the reputation of the repair shop with your local consumer group. Check out the technicians' credentials. ASE-certified professionals have passed one or more national exams in specialties such as engine performance and air conditioning.
Don't try this at home. Your car's air conditioner should be serviced only by a technician certified to handle and recycle refrigerants. The air conditioners in older vehicles contain ozone-depleting chemicals, which can be released into the atmosphere through improper service.
Instant karma. In addition to helping the environment, routine maintenance will help your vehicle last longer, get better gas mileage, and command a higher resale price. Pretty cool.

For ASE’ Glove Box Tips, click here.

Smart Cars, Smarter Technicians

Today's vehicles are sophisticated and complex machines. The average car has 6-20 computers that help manage everything from the sunroof to anti-lock braking system (ABS) to the electronically controlled transmission (ECT). And the technicians who service the vehicles need to be technologically savvy like never before.

The increasing demand for automotive technicians combined with good salaries make this a career choice that neither students, parents nor guidance counselors should ignore.

Alan Cherko, a shop owner in the Los Angeles area, says the potential exists for individuals who work hard at educating and certifying themselves to make "upwards of $80-100,000 per year." Cherko adds that "a willingness to continue education and pursue voluntary on-the-job training" helps put young technicians on the fast track.

Students who want to become automotive technicians can usually begin their careers after two years of study at a technical college, permitting budding technicians to enter the labor market sooner (and likely with less student debt) than their cohorts who attend college for four, six, or more years.

"Society feels young people must go to college to be successful but that's not true these days," said Bill Willis, a car dealer in Smyrna, Del. "Good techs are scarce and if you have the aptitude to turn a wrench and fix things, plus education and ASE certification, chances are that will equal a very secure job. We have lots of help these days with training from vehicle manufacturers. In addition, lots of businesses will 'grow' their techs from apprentice to top tech. They can move on to management later, if that's what they're looking for. It's an excellent career choice--better than 30 years ago."

And the tech's job is very portable; qualified technicians are in demand across the country.

Dave Watson, a shop owner in Littleton, Colo., and an ASE-certified master technician himself puts it this way: "A tech would be able to get a job almost anywhere because they are proven professionals. Shops are more than willing to pay for qualified techs. Besides, the country runs on its wheels."

For ASE’ Glove Box Tips, click here.

National Standards Help Consumers Locate Qualified Automotive Technicians

Car owners know they should keep their vehicles in good operating condition, but often they do not know where to turn for dependable service or what to look for in a repair shop.

Some choose a repair shop based solely on its convenient location or an advertised special. Not the best move, according to officials with the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, also known as ASE. “Look for the ASE sign,” says Tony Molla, vice president of communications at ASE. “It indicates the repair shop employs one or more ASE-certified technicians.” Molla emphasizes that finding a competent auto technician need not be a matter of chance. Much of the guesswork has been eliminated, thanks to a national program conducted by ASE: “Qualified technicians are the backbone of any repair establishment,” he adds.

ASE tests and certifies automotive professionals in all major technical areas of repair and service. With more than 300,000 currently certified professionals, the ASE program is national in scope and has industry-wide acceptance and recognition. ASE-certified technicians and parts specialists can be found at every type of repair facility, from dealerships, service stations, and franchises to parts stores, independent garages, and even municipal fleet yards.

Certification Benefits Motorists

ASE certifies the technical competence of individual technicians, not repair facilities where they work. Before taking ASE certification tests, many technicians attend training classes or study on their own in order to update their knowledge. By passing difficult, national tests, ASE-certified technicians prove their technical competence not only to themselves, but to their employers and their customers. ASE does not certify repair shops or monitor individual business practices, but it stands to reason that those shop owners and managers who support their employees' efforts to become ASE-certified often will be just as proactively involved in the other aspects of their businesses as well, says Molla.

How Certification Works

ASE certification exams are offered eight months a year across the country in secure, proctored test sites across the U.S. and Canada. The tests are developed by industry experts with oversight from ASE's own in-house pros and are designed to measure on-the-job competency. Technicians who pass at least one exam and fulfill the two-year work experience requirement carry the “ASE-Certified Technician” designation. Those who pass a battery of exams and fulfill the experience requirement earn “Master Technician” status.

There are specialty exams covering all major areas of repair. There are nine tests for auto technicians alone: Engine Repair, Engine Performance, Diesel Engine, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Brakes, Heating and Air Conditioning, Suspension and Steering, Manual Drive Train and Axles, and Automatic Transmissions. There are also exams for collision repair, school bus and transit bus technicians, damage estimators, parts specialists, and others.

ASE certification is not a designation for life, however. All ASE credentials have expiration dates, and ASE requires automotive service professionals to retest every five years to demonstrate a commitment to continuing education and stay abreast of continually changing technologies in order to retain certification.

Finding ASE-Certified Technicians

Repair establishments with at least one ASE technician are permitted to display the blue and white ASE sign and often do outside and inside their facilities. Each ASE professional is issued personalized credentials listing his or her exact area(s) of certification and an appropriate shoulder insignia. Technicians are also issued certificates that employers often post in the customer-service area.

Businesses with a high level of commitment to the ASE program (75 percent of service personnel certified) are entitled to a special "Blue Seal of Excellence" recognition from ASE, with distinctive yellow and blue signage. These elite facilities are among the best in the national. More than 1,500 businesses participate in this growing program.

As with other professionals — physicians come to mind — automotive technicians often specialize. So it's wise to ask the shop owner or service manager for a technician who is certified in the appropriate area, say, brakes, engine repair, or air conditioning.

Vehicle owners can visit the ASE website – www.ase.com – for more information about certified automotive technicians, as well as seasonal car care tips and more.

Auto Service Goes High-Tech

Increasingly, automotive repair and service is becoming a high-tech profession, note officials with the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Old images die hard, but yesterday's mechanics have become today's technicians, complete with hand-held computer diagnostic tools and a wall full of credentials attesting to their abilities.

In a recent poll of ASE-certified automotive technicians, over four-fifths said they used a computer on the job, more than two-thirds said they owned a computer at home, and over half said they had access to the Internet.

"The profession is being revolutionized," notes ASE President Tim Zilke. "Brute force has been supplanted by brain power. If you don't think so, just look under the hood of one of today's sport coupes or SUVs. This is rocket science-or very close to it. Today's auto technicians need to be master diagnosticians, well versed in electronics, and have smooth customer service skills." Auto technicians face components and repairs virtually unheard of a generation ago: on-board computers, electronic fuel injection, and antilock brakes, to name but a few advances.

Fortunately, the requirements on motorists are much less. According to ASE, a major component of satisfactory auto repair is good communication between shop and customer.

ASE suggests that consumers read their owner's manual to become familiar with the basic systems and the service intervals. Once at the repair establishment, be prepared to describe the symptoms; but do not suggest a specific course of repair. Do not be embarrassed to ask questions or definitions of technical terms. Don't expect an on-the-spot diagnosis, but ask to be apprised of the problem, course of action, and costs before work begins. And, be sure you understand policies regarding diagnostic fees, labor rates, return of old parts, and guarantees, ASE advises.

For ASE’ Glove Box Tips, click here.

Don't Scrimp on Vehicle Maintenance

Technician certification organization ASE surveys show a well-maintained vehicle not only lasts longer, it retains more of its resale value.

With a sluggish economic recovery and today’s consumers watching their finances carefully, it’s no surprise that the average age of vehicles in the United States is more than 11 years old, according to automotive research firm R.L. Polk and Co. With motorists holding on to their vehicles longer than ever before, maintenance takes an even greater importance in keeping roads — and people — safe.

The cost of neglect

“It’s tempting to avoid car maintenance in tough economic times, but that’s not a financially sound method to manage the big investment you’ve made in your vehicle,” notes Tony Molla, vice president of communications for the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). “Surveys of our certified technicians show that a well-maintained vehicle lasts longer, retains more of its resale value, pollutes less, and gets better mileage than one that’s been neglected — to say nothing of being safer to operate.”

According to the pros at ASE, neglect causes components to wear out faster than they would otherwise (poorly aligned tires, for example) and can result in minor problems growing into more expensive repairs (worn brake pads will eventually damage the more expensive rotors). ASE suggests motorists, whether they are do-it-yourselfers or take their cars to ASE-certified technicians, become familiar with their owner’s manual and follow the service schedules. “The owner’s manual is under-utilized; it summarizes systems to check and provides schedules based on normal or severe driving,” notes Molla.

While some people might relish a weekend tinkering with the family car, today’s technological advances under the hood and busier lifestyles find more consumers in search of dependable, trustworthy automotive service and repair.

Finding a good mechanic

Finding a competent auto technician need not be a matter of chance. Much of the guesswork has been eliminated, thanks to a national program conducted by ASE.

ASE tests and certifies automotive professionals in all major technical areas of repair and service. With more than 360,000 currently certified professionals working in dealerships, independent shops, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, schools and colleges across the United States, ASE’s national certification program has industry-wide acceptance and recognition.

ASE certifies the technical competence of individual technicians, not the repair facilities. Before taking ASE certification tests, many technicians attend training classes or study on their own in order to brush up on their knowledge. By passing difficult, national tests, ASE-certified technicians prove their technical competence to themselves, to their employers, and to their customers.

What’s more, because this program is voluntary, ASE certification becomes a self-selecting credential. And while ASE does not certify repair shops or monitor business practices, it stands to reason that those shop owners and managers who support their employees’ efforts to become ASE-certified often will be just as proactively involved in the other aspects of their businesses as well.

How certification works

More than 40 certification tests in all areas of vehicle service and repair are offered eight months out of the year at secure computer centers. Technicians who pass at least one exam and fulfill the two-year work experience requirement earn the “ASE-certified” designation. Those who pass a battery of exams, as well as fulfill the experience requirement, earn “Master Technician” status. In addition, all ASE credentials have expiration dates. ASE requires technicians to retest every five years to demonstrate their commitment to continuing education and stay abreast of changing technologies.

The tests are developed and regularly updated by industry experts with oversight from ASE’s own in-house pros. They are administered by ACT, the same group known for its college entrance exams.

There are specialty exams covering all major areas of repair. There are nine tests for auto technicians alone: Engine Repair, Engine Performance, Light Vehicle Diesel Engines, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Brakes, Heating and Air Conditioning, Suspension and Steering, Manual Drive Train and Axles, and Automatic Transmissions. There are also exams for collision repair technicians, engine machinists, parts specialists, bus techs and others.

Finding ASE-Certified Technicians

Repair establishments with at least one ASE-certified technician are permitted to display the blue and white ASE sign. Each ASE professional is issued personalized credentials listing his or her exact area(s) of certification and an appropriate shoulder insignia or lapel pin. Technicians are also issued certificates that employers often post in the customer-service areas of their businesses. Businesses with a high level of commitment to ASE are entitled to a special "Blue Seal of Excellence" recognition from ASE.

As with other professionals, automotive technicians often specialize, so it’s wise to ask the shop owner or service manager for a technician who is certified in the appropriate area, such as brakes, engine repair, or air conditioning.

Visit www.ase.com for more information about ASE-certification, plus seasonal car care tips.

Don't Overlook Automotive Technology as a High-Tech Career Path

Parents and students should take a second look at automotive repair, a high-tech career that is always in demand and can’t be outsourced overseas.

Parents, if becoming an automotive technician is not high on your list of career choices for your child, perhaps it’s time to look again.

Officials with the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) — the independent group that tests and certifies the competence of auto technicians nationally — note that automotive service and repair has changed dramatically in just the span of a generation. High-tech systems unheard of 30 years ago are now standard equipment on much of the nation’s fleet of vehicles: stability and traction control systems, adaptive cruise control and variable valve timing, just to name a few. And more changes are on the way: hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles are commonplace; hydrogen fuel cell and other alternative fuel vehicles are deployed in municipal fleets around the country; and Internet connections, voice recognition commands and GPS mapping are available in economy to luxury models.

Given the advance of technology and a richly varied automotive industry that offers an array of positions and career paths, the future is bright for talented young persons with math, science, communications and technical skills. And unlike many high-tech careers that require four, six, or even eight years of college, automotive technology careers can begin after just two years of education. As with any career, lifelong learning and continuing education is necessary, but the simple fact is, students in automotive technology can get out into the real world sooner – and with less college debt.

Moreover, job growth looks strong into the foreseeable future. The U.S. Dept. of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts automotive repair and maintenance industry is expected to add 237,500 new jobs and have a 30 percent growth rate through 2020, making technicians one of the top 20 jobs with relatively high median earnings and the potential for significant job openings over the next decade. And with the outsourcing of jobs picking up steam – first manufacturing jobs, now computer programming, customer call-center work, and accounting services all going overseas – it should be comforting to know that automotive service and repair is fairly immune to such moves.

So, what kind of work is out there?

The jobs run the gamut from line technician to service consultant, service director, or store owner. There is work in parts, parts distribution and wholesaling; collision repair, painting, and damage estimating; vehicle maintenance, repair, and performance upgrades; and motorsports. There’s the growing field of high-performance machining and rebuilding. There is work in technical areas, training, or in management at the corporate level for national franchises, vehicle manufacturers, and private and municipal fleets. There are positions with high schools and community colleges, as well as proprietary schools, as instructors. Still other technicians find themselves moving into sales, marketing, and business management. Countless automotive aftermarket executives got their start turning wrenches, though nowadays the tool of choice is as likely to be a diagnostic computer and monitor.

In fact, so many people have started their careers in the automotive aftermarket as an auto technician that it is viewed as something of a portal career. For those whose true calling is in the service bay, it’s far from a dead-end career. Top-notch technicians well versed in computer diagnostics and the latest engine performance and driveabilty solutions can and do command top-dollar salaries. Pride in work, technical savvy, and craftsmanship are rewarded.

So if your child prefers to get out into the real world and make his or her mark, consider a career in automotive technology. Ask your child’s guidance counselor, or better yet, visit your local National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accredited community college or technical school.

The nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) conducts the only nationally recognized certification program for automotive service professionals. ASE offers a wide range of tests that serve virtually every segment of the automotive service arena. More than 360,000 professionals hold current ASE certification. To learn more, go to www.ase.com.

The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation, or NATEF for short, is ASE’s education arm. NATEF works closely with the automotive service industry to develop national standards for automotive training programs. Such programs, in turn, benefit students and employers alike by providing a steady stream of job-ready young technicians. For more information about NATEF’s programs, a list of certified automotive Career/Technical programs in your area, and additional career information, visitwww.natef.org.

Friday, 2 October 2015

What Are the Symptoms of a Bad EGR Valve?

Exhaust gas recirculation systems aren't exactly the most glamorous systems in the average car, but they do perform several very important jobs. An EGR might not help you get where you're going any faster or looking any better, but a working one will get you there a good deal cleaner and cheaper.

Symptoms
An EGR valve works by recirculating used exhaust gases into your engine. These gases contain unburned fuel but very little oxygen, and they're very hot. A hot intake charge carries less oxygen, so a working EGR system effectively makes your engine act smaller than it really is. In terms of driving, an EGR valve that's stuck open will cause a noticeable drop in horsepower at the very least. Along with that may come detonation -- "knock" or "ping" -- under hard acceleration, and the attendant cylinder misfires. The engine will also see an open EGR valve as a massive vacuum leak, so expect hard starting and a very rough idle. An EGR stuck closed or clogged with carbon won't exhibit many symptoms, since engines don't technically need them to run. But expect a very noticeable drop in fuel economy, a noticeable gasoline smell from the exhaust pipe, a very hot catalytic converter, or all of the above.

All modern vehicles monitor the EGR system, so any fault with the system should trigger a check-engine light. You'll get one anyway if the engine ends up detonating, misfiring or running rich; all of these will trigger diagnostic codes. But you should find EGR diagnostic codes along with them if the EGR is the source of the problem.

How to Check an EGR

EGR valves in a car regulate combustion temperatures within the engine of a car. The valve recycles exhaust back into your car, which makes the car more energy efficient and reduces the amount it pollutes. A faulty EGR valve will result in either a clicking sound in the engine or an engine stall while it is idling. Luckily for car owners, the EGR valve is very easy to check, and you do not need extensive auto-mechanic knowledge in order to perform a thorough inspection of your EGR valve.

Things You'll Need

Owner's manual

Instructions

Turn the ignition on in your car, and leave the car in park. The engine should be allowed to warm up for several minutes before you inspect the EGR valve.

Pop open the front hood of the car.

Locate the EGR valve by consulting your car's owner's manual. The location of the valve will differ according to vehicle make and model.

Observe the EGR valve while someone revs the engine. If the EGR is functioning properly, a plunger like part will bounce up and down consistently. If the part is not moving fluidly, or will not move at all, your EGR needs maintenance and you should consult a mechanic.

What Are the Symptoms of a Bad EGR Valve?

Signs of a Bad Idle Air Control Valve

An idle air control valve is, in a very real way, the predecessor to the drive-by-wire throttle systems commonly employed today. It performs much the same function as any electronic throttle: to control the amount of air going into the engine so the computer can match it with the right amount of fuel. The only difference between these two systems is that an IAC is smaller and only works at idle.

Common Problem
Because an IAC valve controls air going into the engine only when the throttle is shut or almost shut, these are the only two times you're likely to notice it malfunctioning. The most common type of failure results from clogging of the IAC valve with carbon, dirt and debris, which restricts the amount of air going through and slows the valve's response time.

Classic Symptoms
Classic symptoms of a clogged IAC are a rough or unsteady idle, and stalling if the valve passage gets too clogged or the valve fails outright. Another sign is engine rpm that drops very low -- possibly to the point of stalling -- when you lift your foot off the gas pedal to slow down. This may be accompanied by an immediate, jerky deceleration as soon as you lift your foot off the pedal, and a backfire through the tailpipe as the engine loads up with excess fuel.

Less Common
Less common are valves that get stuck in the open position; in this case, you'll probably only see stalling at idle and hesitation during acceleration. Modern cars will almost always trigger a check-engine light following any kind of IAC failure, and may display codes specifically diagnosing that.

How to Adjust a Car Idle

As cars get older and accrue more mileage, the idle speed of an automobile may be higher or lower than it needs to be, either wasting precious fuel or causing the car to stall out. Adjusting your idle is relatively easy, with the same basic procedure for any car. However, be sure to check the specifications for your car before doing any of your own maintenance.

Things You'll Need

Screwdriver

Instructions

Start your car and allow it to cycle through at least one period of going through a higher RPM rate. This will ensure that the engine is completely warmed up and you will be able to adjust the idle properly. It is important to allow the engine to warm up because you will be driving your car mostly at that condition. While the engine is warming, you can pop the hood of your car and prop it open.

Locate the throttle body. You can recognize it by tracing your air intake hose as it exits the air filter. The next part that the air hoses connect to is a metal part called the throttle body. Look on the sides of the throttle body until you locate a screw or a rubber casing that houses a screw. This screw is how you adjust your idle.

Remove the rubber casing for the idle switch by prying it off with a screwdriver. This casing is usually installed by manufacturers but is not needed for the performance of the idle switch. If your idle has been adjusted before, then there will be no covering over the screw.

Disconnect the idle air adjustment valve, which regulates whether the idle opens or closes depending on the air intake. Disconnect the valve by locating the electrical connector behind the throttle body. Be careful not to touch any hot engine parts while working on the idle.

Turn the idle screw, now exposed from the protective rubber coating, in order to adjust the idle. Loosen the screw in a counter-clockwise fashion to increase idle speed or tighten it in a clockwise manner in order to decrease the idle speed. Ideally, you will want the idle to rest at 650 RPM.

Reconnect the idle air controller valve electrical connection. Lower the hood and turn your car off.

High Idle Causes

A high idle in your car can cause you to worry. When the engine seems to rev up on its own while you are at a standstill, you may wonder if it's a sign of trouble that needs the attention of a mechanic. The answer to that question depends on the cause of the high idle. Some causes are harmless, while others can indicate the need for a repair.

Faulty Fuses

Most modern car engines control the engine idle speed through a motor called an IAC (idle air control) motor. One of the leading causes of IAC motor malfunction is a blown or faulty fuse. A malfunctioning fuse in any of the electronically controlled components including the air bag system can disrupt the function of the IAC motor and lead to a higher idle speed than usual.

Computer Malfunctions

Computers control a modern car's engine and transmission, its brake system and its airbag system. If the fuses are fine, the computer system itself in one of these components might be malfunctioning. If that's the case, that might be the source of the high idle speed in your engine.

In some cars, the powertrain control computer can misinterpret the information it receives about the idle speed, leading to higher idling speeds. Cold weather can trigger this problem, and it usually corrects itself once the engine is warmed up.

Leaking Vacuum

The IAC motor works with a vacuum port to control the engine's idle speed. By opening and closing a valve to the vacuum port at set intervals, the IAC motor sets the idle speed. If the seal on the vacuum port is leaking, that will interfere with the overall function of the IAC and may lead to high idle speeds. Often it is the hoses connected to the vacuum system that become damaged, leading to an imperfect vacuum.

Malfunctioning Throttle

The throttle system in the vehicle might not be working properly, which can cause engine stalling or high idling. Common causes of a throttle malfunction are a buildup of dirt and contaminants in the engine's secondary air intake or a cracked air intake tube.

IAC Motor Malfunction

The IAC motor itself may not be working properly. A short circuit in the motor can trigger high idle problems. Sometimes IAC motors develop high resistance in the circuitry, which slows the reactions of the IAC and can lead to idling problems.

The Causes of an Idle Surge

Fluctuations in engine idle speed can be annoying and may even cause stalling at idle. Engine stalling can be dangerous, because power assistance is lost to the steering and brakes. Idle speeds below those specified by the manufacturer will affect the performance of the power steering pump, alternator and AC compressor. Emission control devices also require a minimum engine speed for effective operation. Surges that accelerate engine speed could cause unexpected vehicle movement.

Air Supply

A clogged or obstructed air filter can cause surging at idle, and foreign objects can enter the filter housing at any time. Any debris in the filter or housing might restrict air flow to the engine enough to affect idle speeds. Clean the throttle body or carburetor venturi(s) after replacing a severely dirty air filter. Aerosol products designed for this purpose are available at any auto parts store. Instructions for use are on printed on the can.

Fuel Supply

Fuel filters can become restricted and deny proper delivery at idle speeds. Mechanical fuel pumps may overcome restrictions and performance deficiencies at higher speeds. Incorrect idle speed settings or fuel mixture adjustments, and malfunctions in the fuel vapor recovery system can upset engine idle capabilities of carbureted engines. The appropriate fuel system cleaner added to the fuel tank can open clogged passages in injectors and carburetors that may be causing the surge.

Vacuum

Any extra air entering the intake manifold will lean the mixture at idle and surging will result. A visual inspection of vacuum hoses may reveal cracked or leaking hoses. A short length of tubing can serve as a make-shift stethoscope to pinpoint any hissing noises heard on a running engine. Cracked or clogged positive crankcase ventilation valves can adversely affect engine idle quality. Idle solenoids or controls should be adjusted to specifications after vacuum leaks are repaired.

Engine Issues

Ignition system problems can contribute to idle surge. Ignition timing and the condition of spark plugs and related components should be be checked before seeking professional assistance. Lack of compression, and valve timing and condition issues are complex to diagnose and usually affect overall performance, but can be more pronounced at idle speeds. Contributing emission system flaws may require advanced testing techniques or equipment. A visit to a qualified repair facility might be necessary.

How to Rewire a Car Lighter Adapter Plug

Portable electronic appliances typically come with 12-volt adapters and patch cords that enable such appliances to be used inside vehicles. In the United States, production of 12-volt automobile plugs is standardized under "UL standard 2089," which covers plugs and patch cords that insert into cigarette lighter receptacles. A 12-volt car lighter adapter plug is easy and convenient to use, but can sometimes become defective due to abuse or misuse. If you know how to rewire a defective car lighter adapter plug you can save yourself some cash.

Things You'll Need
Diagonal pliers
Wire stripper
Soldering gun
Solder wire

Instructions
Cut the cord attached to the lighter plug about 2 inches below the plug, using diagonal pliers. Remove about 2 inches of outer covering from the tip of the patch cord, using diagonal pliers. Strip off 1/2 inch of insulation from the tip of the two inner wires (positive and negative), using a wire stripper.

Look at the plug. Observe the two retractable metal fins protruding on each side of its cylinder, and the retractable metal nipple at its tip. Note that the side fins are negative conductors, and that the tip is the positive conductor of the 12-volt circuit.

Hold the plug cap in your right hand, hold the cylindrical body in your left hand, and twist the cap counterclockwise to unscrew the cap from the plug's cylindrical body. Find the holding screw along the adapter plug's cylindrical body, and unscrew it with a screwdriver. A lighter plug is typically split lengthwise along its center into two identical halves. Open the cylindrical body to reveal the metal fins and nipple inside, including a small spring that pushes the retractable metal nipple.

Note the order in which the metal conductors and spring are arranged inside the plug's cylindrical body. Remove the existing wires attached to the metal nipple, and to the metal fins, by cutting the wires using diagonal pliers.

Loop the stripped end of the positive wire (red, or black with white stripe) around the base of the metal nipple (positive terminal), and solder the copper wire to the metal nipple, using a soldering gun and solder wire.

Wrap the stripped end of the negative wire (black, without stripe) around the base of the metal fins. Fasten the wire onto the fins, using soldering gun and solder wire. Replace the metal nipple and metal fins inside the plug, and reassemble the plug in the same arrangement as you had found them earlier. Make sure that the positive and negative wires do not come in contact with each other.

Turn on your vehicle's ignition switch. Insert the car lighter adapter plug into a 12-volt receptacle on your vehicle's dashboard, and turn on your appliance to test the connection.

How to Check if a Diode Is Bad

Diodes are semiconductor devices that conduct current in one direction only, and are commonly made from silicon or germanium. Diodes have two terminals -- an anode and a cathode -- with the cathode being marked by a line painted on the body of the diode. Current is allowed to flow from the anode to the cathode, but is blocked in the other direction. This property is used most commonly in rectifier circuits, which change alternating current to direct current. Diodes are also used to protect components in a circuit if the power is connected the wrong way around, blocking the flow of current to stop damage being caused. Although diodes rarely fail, it can happen if they are exposed to voltage or current above their rated limits.

Things You'll Need
Digital multimeter
Soldering iron
Desoldering braid
Pliers

Instructions
Unsolder one leg of the diode if it is part of a circuit, otherwise the other components in the circuit may affect the results of the test. Heat the solder pad around the diode leg until the solder is molten, and then gently pull the leg through from the other side using pliers. Soak up any excess solder with desoldering braid, leaving the hole clear.

Set the multimeter to its diode test mode, denoted by the circuit symbol for a diode which looks similar to an arrow. If the multimeter does not have a diode mode, set it to the lower end of the resistance range.

Place one probe from the multimeter on to one of the diodes legs, and the other probe on to the other leg. Note the reading obtained, and then swap the positions of the probes and note the new reading.

Interpret the results. If you get an open circuit in one direction indicating the current is blocked, and a low resistance reading in the other direction, the diode is good. If there is an open circuit in both directions, the diode has failed with an open circuit. If there is a low resistance in both directions, the diode has failed with a short. In both cases the diode should be replaced.

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Wednesday, 7 October 2015

Stopping and Steering are Keys to Driving Safely

ASE: What's in It for Car Owners

ASE Certification Program Helps Take the Guesswork Out of Finding a Good Technician

Tomorrow's Environmentally "Clean/Green" Vehicles Are Here Today

Tomorrow's Environmentally "Clean/Green" Vehicles Are Here Today

Zero-Emission Vehicles

Hybrids Gaining in Popularity

The Future

Springtime Auto Tips

End of Summer Marks Perfect Time for Car Care

Preventative maintenance now can help ensure worry-free driving this winter

First things first

Engine Performance

Fuel

Oil

Cooling System

Heater/Defroster

Windshield Wipers

Battery

A word of caution:

Lights

Exhaust System

Tires

Emergencies

Ten Tips for SUV Owners

Gas-Saving Tips for Your Auto

It's Easy Being "Green"

Smart Cars, Smarter Technicians

National Standards Help Consumers Locate Qualified Automotive Technicians

Auto Service Goes High-Tech

Don't Scrimp on Vehicle Maintenance

Don't Overlook Automotive Technology as a High-Tech Career Path

Friday, 2 October 2015

What Are the Symptoms of a Bad EGR Valve?

How to Check an EGR

What Are the Symptoms of a Bad EGR Valve?

Signs of a Bad Idle Air Control Valve

How to Adjust a Car Idle

High Idle Causes

The Causes of an Idle Surge

How to Rewire a Car Lighter Adapter Plug

How to Check if a Diode Is Bad