GM TPMS Service Tips
Shops should use a TPMS tool that can reset the sensor positions after rotation. There is a method in the owner’s manual to “match” the sensors that involves deflating a tire for eight seconds.
Pushing The Boundaries, Mazda Reveals Mazda RX-VISION Concept
Powered by next-generation rotary engine SKYACTIV-R, RX-VISION Concept represents Mazda’s vision of the future.
Secondary Ignition: The Art Of Spark
From the beginning of the internal combustion engine, several different ignition systems have been used to create a high-energy spark. The most popular system, and the one that’s in use today, is a step-up coil.
False ABS, ESC Activation Causes And Cures
The first mass-produced anti-lock braking systems (ABS) were introduced in 1985. By 2008, almost every passenger vehicle came standard with ABS. Next, electronic stability control (ESC) became a mandated safety feature for the 2012 model year. Along with all these advancements have come false activation complaints.
Logano Completes 13 Donuts In 60 Seconds
Joey Logano, driver of the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Fusion, is best known for turning heads at the track, but has put a new spin on performance by completing 13 donuts in 60 seconds at The Statesville Regional Airport in Statesville, NC.
Tech Tip: BMW TPMS Systems
BMW has offered Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) on most of its vehicles since 2002. Some 2002 and 2003 models have an indirect system called Flat Tire Monitor (FTM) that compares the inputs of the wheel speed sensors to detect a flat tire. These early indirect and direct systems were implemented not to meet the
Real World: Weighing In on Balancing Work
Whether you’re building a stock engine, a high-revving performance engine or a slow-turning diesel engine, you can’t overlook the importance of balance. Every time the pistons in a reciprocating internal combustion engine change direction, they generate a force. That force is created by the reciprocating and rotating mass of the piston and rod assembly. If
Converting the Masses: Turning a Gas Powered Vehicle into an EV
While some will choose to purchase a new EV, there has been a growing group of enthusiasts who would rather convert or have someone else switch their petroleum-burning vehicles into electric drive.
Lessons in BMW Variable Capacity A/C Systems
Despite the many advances in A/C systems during the past 10 years, it’s important for technicians to understand basic theories of operation. Understanding how a system moves heat from the confined space of the passenger compartment and dissipates it into the atmosphere will assist the technician in analyzing system failures and performing the required maintenance
Getting Your Wires Crossed: Wire Splicing for Sensitive Connections
A long time ago, I learned a method of splicing wire that has stuck with me since those early days. I actually picked this method up while I was in the military (USMC), so I can’t take credit for inventing it or perfecting it. But, since it has helped me all these years, I thought
