autotechnician magazine September23

FAST MOVERS

Growing revenue streams, tech tips & the damage from cutting costs

IN THIS ISSUE Brakes Filters Ignition Wipers MOT updates

THE CHASSIS EXPERTS.

Schaeffler is renowned as a supplier of high-tech precision components and systems to leading vehicle manufacturers around the world, and we deliver these same parts to the independent aftermarket as LuK, INA and FAG complete repair solutions.

Our FAG WheelSet hub repair kits come with all the genuine OE quality components you need to carry out a professional repair, right down to the last nut, bolt and washer, and every single part in our FAG steering & suspension range has been designed to OE specifications, before being produced using the very latest Schaeffler material and manufacturing quality standards. We are absolutely confident in the performance, reliability and durability of our FAG chassis products, so can offer a comprehensive 3-year unlimited mileage warranty and unrivalled free technical support.

www.repxpert.co.uk | http://aftermarket.schaeffler.co.uk

Dear Reader,

Welcome to the re-designed digital issue of autotechnician –featuring more video content, links to resources and pages that are easier on the eye. We’d love to know what you think –ping us an email with any further suggestions via the link below.

We focus on fast-movers with features on braking, ignition, filters and wipers, consider the effects of cost-cutting and include fitting guides and technical tips. There’s also a roundup of MOT news and our usual mix of new products, case studies & industry news.

Nicola

Editor

St Clair

Nicola@autotechnician.co.uk

facebook.com/Autotechmagazine twitter.com/autotech_mag

* View and download previous digital issues at: www.autotechnician.co.uk

September 2023

Do you need to re-code security related components and software?

From October 2023, vehicle manufacturers will look for a Security-related Repair and Maintenance Information, SERMI, certificate before giving access to their securityrelated information.

The Independent Garage Association, IGA, has been working on the SERMI scheme for many years and simply put, it’s about accessing a level of security information where the theft of a vehicle could be involved, and it is about checking the integrity of the owner of the business and the vehicle technician working on the car. To join the scheme, you need to do a basic DBS check, prove your identity and show that your business is working within all the regulatory constraints of running a business in the UK. Garages need to also have a minimum of £1 million public liability cover and meet emissions criteria – garages that carry out ECU mapping need to be aware they are not impacting emissions restrictions.

EV & Hybrid skills boost

LKQ Academy has committed to upskilling another 1,000 technicians in servicing hybrid and Electric Vehicles by the end of 2023, having already trained more than 2,000 technicians in the past twelve months. The news was announced following GIPA data that revealed one in two drivers have changed their repairer since purchasing an EV.

Bob Wiffen, Workshop Solutions Director at LKQ Euro Car Parts, said: “The direction of travel on hybrids and EVs is clear – around half of all new cars sold now are plug-in, up from one in 10 vehicles in 2019. Garages that act fast to upskill their workforce will retain their loyal customers as they upgrade to newer, cleaner technologies – at the same time as attracting hybrid and EV drivers from the competition.”

Available at several locations, including Doncaster, Tamworth and Southampton, ‘Becoming an EV Garage’ is a new two-day training course on how to make hybrid and EV servicing and maintenance a profitable workstream. There are also two new practical courses for technicians who are already trained in level 4 and looking to become specialists in HV repair. One is focused on problem solving, analysis, diagnosis and repair for high voltage systems, with the second course focused on high voltage batteries.

The IGA has launched the scheme on a not-for-profit basis to make it affordable, at £25 per month for a 5-year contract or licence, for the garage owner and one of their technicians. Additional technicians can be enrolled at £75 for the full 5-year period.

For more information or to register for SERMI, you can complete an online expression of interest form, call the IGA on 01788 225 908 or email enquiries@rmif.co.uk

"The IGA has been working on the SERMI scheme for many years and simply put, it's about accessing a level of security information where the theft of a vehicle could be involved"

Calling all Bosch Diagnostic Technicians!

A brand-new training course ‘Battery Management, Smart Charge and 48 Volt Systems', code VSE55, runs at Bosch HQ in Denham on September 19th and 20th. Content covers Smart Energy Management, Stop/Start components and operation, and Micro Hybrid topology for 12V, 24V and 48V, as well as many other features on vehicle energy management. Book via www.bosch-trainingsolutions.com or email SAA.Training@uk.Bosch.com.

IAAF confirms government net zero stance

The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation, IAAF, received confirmation in the past week from the Minister of State for Transport that the Government’s strategy remains net zero exhaust emissions but also includes the ability to continue to use second-hand vehicles with internal combustion engines. Whilst this helps to support affordable mobility, the IAAF has stated that it ‘remains concerned about the alternatives to electric vehicles and how these other alternatives, such as hydrogen fuel cells, can be part of a more practical and pragmatic net zero solution.’

Help shape apprenticeships

Workshop Takeover 2024 –Save the date!

Independenttechnicians are invited to our nextWorkshop Takeover at Cleevely EV in June 2024to gain practical advice on fault-finding across various systems and to hang out with like-minded guests and trainers who wantto share theirtips honed over manyyears oftraining and head scratching within the workshop!

Email Nicola@autotechnician.co.uk ifyou’d like to register your interest in the Cheltenham eventwhich will take place on Saturday15th June and is guaranteed to getyourfaultfinding mojo flowing! Register nowto be offered the first round of limited tickets, available soon.

Autotech Online library ofvideo content

Ifyou’re looking for some free online training in the meantime, we have a bank ofvideo case studies and technical presentations available on ourYouTube channel…

Volume 1

Andy Crook presents a video case study on an Audi S3 suffering from a running fault within his 28-minute presentation. The customer’s vehicle was stalling occasionally, would not idle smoothly and had a coolant leak. The fault codes, live data and subsequenttests are explained in this workshop case studyto determine the underlying issues.

Volume 2

Matt Cleevely describes three faults he’s encountered on the Nissan Leaf: Carwon’tturn off or go into ‘park’; ECU comms fault on the braking circuit; faults on the Power Delivery Module.

Andy Crook presents a BMWX5 with an intermittent starting issue, which has a fault code relating to the camshaft sensor He compares the outputs from a scope and multimeterto highlightwhat information can be gained.

Volume

3

Pete Melville, of HEVRA, investigates the communication between an EV and the charging point, demonstrating the source of potential charging faults on a RenaultZoe.

Watch this short video to get a feel for autotechnician magazine's Workshop Takeover at Cleevely EV in June 2023, where technicians from across the UK brainstormed live faults within EV, Diesel & Petrol workstations. Register your interest in Autotech Live 2024 by emailing nicola@autotechnician.co.uk.

Volume 4

Andy explains how to use time-based triggers to analyse the live data on a camshaft sensor fault on a BMW X5.

Pete compares the thermal management systems on Nissan Leaf and Tesla models and highlights the importance of following VM re-gas procedures as some models need to be connected up to diagnostic equipment to ensure valves are in the right position.

How to run an EV workshop –Saturday 16 September 2023

Matt Cleevely and trainer Alistair Finch are running an event at Cleevely EV from 10am to 3pm on Saturday 16th September to explain what is required to run an EV workshop. They will talk openly about the kind of work they do, the opportunities available, what equipment you ACTUALLY need to safely work on electrified vehicles and how to safely operate, work and move vehicles, even ones that need to be, or have been, recovered.

Tickets are priced £75, to book your place now, visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk/ e/707086894937?aff=oddtdtcreator

In association with: Media Partner:

We recently had a Fiat 500 towed in by the RAC, with the check engine light on accompanied with the sounds of a bad misfire.

I plugged my scanner into the OBD port to extract any fault codes in the ECM, there were also other codes identified but

these were not related to the customer complaint so ignored these for the initial diagnostics and concentrated on the codes relating to the misfire fault. Figures 1 & 2 below display what I found.

A good starting point is to do a visual check on the underbonnet engine, ignition and fuel system and then depending

on what is found, to look for the easiest and quickest place to start testing the fuel system in relation to the fault codes.

A nice easy and non-intrusive test is to locate the fuse box and find the fuse that is related to the fuel injectors to check the current flow to all injectors, to look for any abnormalities.

Fuse box information

Fuse 22, 15A protection for the ignition and fuel injectors circuits

Now to work smarter and not harder, by gathering some information of the system and how it operates to help locate the relevant components to diagnose the fault.

Fiat 500 wiring diagram

On checking the results of the waveform of the cylinder for no. 2 injector, the voltage trace of the injector was incorrect, with no back EMF signature on the trace. The injector for cylinder no. 2 was not opening and incapable of building the strong magnetic field to intensify and then induce the required voltage to operate correctly.

Injector 2= 36.9Ω (problem found)

Injector 3= 12.1Ω

Injector 4= 12.3Ω

After replacing injector no.2, the resistance then measured 11.9Ω.

The resulting waveform of no.2 cylinder injector in Figure 6 has a good pattern and shows correct operation.

I cleared all fault codes, there was no misfire, and the engine

It could not deliver the correct amount of fuel for mixing and burning the air/fuel mixture in the engine combustion chamber – this can be caused by the injector feed or injector coil voltage being too low.

The injector feed voltage for no.2 injector was 13.7V, which is good so the injector coil windings must be causing the problem. You should also have a minimum back EMF of around 80V.

Please note on the current ramp pattern that you also have the ignition coil current ramp as well, this is because I am taking the measurement from the fuse that shares the injector voltage feed with the ignition coil feed, which gave me a quick and easy location for this test.

I then removed the fuel rail and checked injector no.2 for resistance using an Ohmmeter and compared this with the other three injectors:

Injector 1= 12.3Ω

Testing vehicle systems using the correct tools and equipment will help you to diagnose, test and fix these systems safely

It does not matter where you start to test a vehicle system for a fault, provided you know the basics of how the system operates and you have the relevant information, training and knowledge, you should be capable of fixing the problem

I tend to either start at the midpoint of the system and then work backwards or forwards depending on your last test results, or look to see where the easiest access point is to test the system safely

We all make mistakes, but if we learn from these mistakes then we will improve

The basics never change!

Keep training and learning on these new systems – I am learning everyday working on these systems that are rapidly changing with new advanced technology.

ran smoothly with low emissions. I took it on a road test and the job was complete – a nice, easy fix.

Bosch Brakes Born Safe

Bosch braking systems, from the pedal to the wheel: the entire range of Bosch brake components include more than 10,00 0 different products It enables workshops to work efficiently and offer a safe repair of the complete braking system to their customers.

Because for us safety always comes first.

boschaftermarket.co.uk

Fast moving friction

Even with EVs, braking system servicing is a worthy and growing revenue stream, leading Rob Marshall to suss out the latest news

While the UK car fleet is getting older, it is reassuring to know that brake friction suppliers are not resting on their laurels. Take Brembo as an example. Within twelve months, it has expanded its aftermarket offerings considerably. With Battery Electric Vehicle brakes vulnerable to corrosioninduced binding, Brembo presents its Beyond EV Kit, which incorporates discs and pads that are not just more corrosion-

resistant but also quieter. They also produce less dust and it is this latter issue on which the Greenance Kit Concept is formed, where Brembo focusses on brake friction pollution. The company tells us that it is evaluating whether, or not, it can meet the stringent EURO VII emissions regulation, before considering offering it to the aftermarket.

Brake friction sales are booming, at least for now, thanks largely to customers keeping their cars for longer

The bilstein group has also had a very busy year. Notably, its febi brand has introduced a 650-strong range of new (not remanufactured) brake callipers. Like febi, Comline has also expanded its friction offerings for newer vehicles, including those for Vauxhall Corsa/Mokka ranges and Nissan's Qashqai. Delphi too presents pads and discs for the ubiquitous Nissan, as well as expanding its EV range to include pads and discs for the Ford Mustang Mach-E, plus the Hyundai Ioniq 5/6 and its sister car, Kia's EV6.

Other brands are expanding their aftermarket friction portfolios, too. Since being acquired by Fras-le, a Brazilian OE manufacturer in February, Juratek is growing its ability to service the braking needs of both passenger and Light Commercial Vehicles. TMD Friction is also increasing its ranges for both passenger cars and electrified vehicles. Even so, innovations continue for existing offerings. Ferodo reports that it is engineers are exploring new material formulations, pad designs and other innovations constantly, to enhance stopping power, minimise noise and dust emissions, while extending pad and disc life. Its most recent product improvements include chamfered directional brake pads and a directional arrow imprinted on pad back plates to aid correct installation. First Line has also been providing new practical alternatives for the aftermarket. Its states that the expansion of its Borg & Beck BBD7000 brake disc series allows garages to offer aftermarket alternatives to costly two-piece bimetal OE discs. These comprise one-piece discs, made from high-carbon steel, protected from corrosion by a water-based zinc-aluminium coating. Being a retailer has not stopped LKQ Euro Car Parts from upping its game, either. It says that its Wear & Tear Manufacturing Defects warranty, introduced earlier this year, has been received very warmly by garages.

Low Viscosity brake fluid – is it a con?

We are hearing of a different type of brake fluid being introduced for vehicles requiring non-silicone fluid. Speaking under anonymity, a trade contact told us that this is a cynical attempt to make the trade and public pay more for brake fluid that is the same as normal DOT 4. Yet, our contacts disagree.

Ferodo says that such low-viscosity fluids are formulated to maintain correct performance of the ABS/ESP hydraulic control unit, which possesses very narrow piping and nozzles, where a fluid with higher viscosity could cause a delayed reaction.

DRiV argues that garages can upsell an enhanced specification DOT4/5.1 fluid in the case of highvoltage vehicles. It reasons that, due to the potential electrical currents near the braking system, a lower conductivity fluid is advisable. Brembo shares this view. DRiV also reasons that, because noise from the braking system is more noticeable on Battery Electric Vehicles, its Ferodo DOT5.1 EHV contains special lubricity enhancers to help counter the effect. Yet, First Line, LKQ Euro Car Parts and TMD Friction highlight the importance of complying with carmakers' fluid stipulations.

Febi reasons that some manufacturers recommend a low-viscosity variant of DOT 4 brake fluid, especially for colder climates, because of the lower freezing point.

Delphi agrees that using conventional fluid in systems designed for low-viscosity fluid can compromise braking performance, potentially leading to longer stopping distances and decreased system responsiveness.

When competing on price, avoid the temptation to mix and match pad and disc brands. The result could be increased noise – the most common reason for customer complaints

A long-standing tradition of OE partnerships

Being fi tted as Original Equipment on a new car model is the ultimate validation of our quest for braking excellence. JURID has a longstanding tradition of OE partnerships with vehicle manufacturers - from the most popular to the most iconic brands in the world.

SCAN ME TO FIND YOUR NEAREST STOCKIST

The Rapid Group are exclusive distributors of JURID Parts. Scan the QR Code to fi nd your nearest stockist and buy your parts today!

Uptoandbeyondcleanandsilent

The exclusive solution for electric vehicles.

The Brembo Beyond EV Kit is the perfect combination of a double-protective coated disc and a special copper-free brake pad with galvanized back plate, that ensure no corrosion and maximum silence while driving.

Assembled to Brembo’s unparalleled OE quality specifications, you have peace of mind knowing your brakes are performing, and protected, from rust in every condition, and every drive, up to and beyond 60,000 miles. Specially designed for leading global car manufacturers, and drivers, who always go beyond the ordinary.

Market Trends

Faced with an almost constant barrage of consumer doomand-gloom news reports, it is surprising that brake friction suppliers are not experiencing a race to the bottom. TMD Friction says that this year's sales trends have reflected those of last year. While its trio of brands possess different price sectors to suit market demands, the company has even experienced a spike in demand for its premium Textar brand. First Line states also that it has not noticed any particular shift in brand preference, due to the cost-of-living pressures.

Interestingly, febi reports particularly high sales in ancillary products, such as hoses. Also bucking the trend is Comline. It reports strong growth in its brake friction offerings, which it attributes to workshops repairing increasingly older cars.

LKQ Euro Car Parts agrees, adding that brake friction sales are 'booming'. However, Juratek finds particular interest in its hybrid and electric vehicle offerings, especially as those vehicles are entering aftermarket workshops.

Not replacing fitting kits is a false economy, considering that they are relatively inexpensive

Quality brake manufacturers continue to develop existing products, as well as expanding their ranges.

"Faced with an almost constant barrage of consumer doom-andgloom news reports, it is surprising that brake friction suppliers are not experiencing a race to the bottom"

Blue Print demonstrates the steps required to bleed the brakes of a third generation Toyota Prius in this short video

IN THE PURSUIT OF SILENCE

The modern driving experience demands quieter braking – particularly for electric vehicles. Textar has a dedicated ‘Noise Vibration Harshness’ team, working with specially developed analytical and simulation tools in relentless pursuit of the ultimate braking comfort. Without compromise. That’s what friction experts do.

www.textar.com

Ten

routes to smarter brake repairs

It can be difficult to resist pressure to complete servicing tasks faster. A lack of time may also reduce opportunities for technicians to keep up with training, too. We asked Comline, Delphi, DRiV (Ferodo), First Line, Juratek, LKQ Euro Car Parts and TMD Friction for their top advice for busy technicians on how to avoid the most common errors, which training will correct.

Removing disc coatings

While removing protective oil film on plain unpainted discs is vital; some technicians waste their time, by stripping paint from coated discs. Unless contaminated, coated discs can be installed straight from the box.

Not replacing in pairs

Replacing one side only can be dangerous, because of braking imbalance. Should you find one side exhibits uneven wear, you need to perform extra checks to establish why. Sticking calliper slides and pistons are good places to start.

Not cleaning disc to hub faces

This is a very common omission that causes vibrations and juddering and risks potential braking system failure. This is the main cause of Disc Thickness Variation, which is a condition of 'High Spots' on the discs that cause a pulsating effect on the pedal. Use a wire brush to eradicate rust from the contact surfaces and hub flange, while being careful not to damage the calliper bracket. Rinse the surface with brake cleaner and check the cleaned hub with a DTI

gauge, for any possible lateral runout deviations.

Not checking ABS rings

This task includes removing corrosion on the hub. For certain Citroëns and Peugeots, a common error is not verifying the correct air gap between discs fitted with ABS rings and the sensors on the car.

Over-use of impact wrenches

This can over-tighten fixings, risking fracture. Use a torque wrench on all mounting bolts, observing car manufacturer specifications for recommended torque.

Reusing ancillary parts

Workshops tend to skip this step to save themselves time and their customers' money. Yet, brake pad fitting kits increase braking system efficiency and longevity and are especially valuable to prevent imbalance.

Using copper grease

This traditional practice was never advised officially but managed to become adopted throughout the aftermarket for many decades. When used on modern brakes, copper grease causes electrochemical corrosion and may also lead to sticking at high temperatures. It also conducts heat and might cause the vehicle’s ABS/ESP system to malfunction. It also attacks the

rubber used as calliper piston gaiters.

Lubricating moulded shims

While slide pins and pad-to-calliper contact points should be lubricated with a non-conductive, heatresistant and solids-free ceramic grease, such as Textar Ceratec, the rear of pads that comprise moulded shims must not be greased.

Neglecting brake fluid checks

Most commonly, this refers to postfriction brake repairs. Naturally, most brake fluids should be tested annually and replaced biennially.

Forgetting aftercare

Road-test the vehicle before handing it back to the owner. Clear any coatings from the brake surface, by braking gently and carefully from a maximum speed of 30mph. Afterwards, explain to the customer why bedding-in is essential to prevent future noise issues. The bedding procedure lasts between 200 - 400 miles and enables the pads to deposit a thin, even layer of material onto the disc surface. The driver should avoid harsh braking during this time; otherwise, the pad friction material can glaze, increasing the risk of brake fade. It is worth noting that some companies fit their pads with bedding-in strips, making such careful post-fitting treatment unnecessary.

Brakes for All Makes!

Blue Print now offer a complete brake friction range with more than 3,400 components for Asian and European vehicle applications. Additionally our Brake Disc and Pads range covers over 98% of all popular cars on European roads (Year 2000 onwards).

Every Blue Print product is researched, designed and manufactured to be premium OE matching quality and undergoes stringent and regular quality checks to ensure optimum performance & long service life.

Want quality and value? Choose Blue Print! Your Premium Quality Aftermarket Solution! www.blue-print.com

For more information, check out:

Delphi’s Masters of Motion hub: https://mom.delphiautoparts.com

Delphi Academy online learning: https://academyuk. delphiautoparts.com/#/public-dashboard/

DRiV's Garage Gurus knowledge centre: www.garagegurus.tech/en-gb/knowledge-center. html and training: www.garagegurus.tech/en-gb/ garage-gurus-services.html

The LKQ Academy also offers braking courses, too: https://lkqacademy.co.uk/

Keep up to date with how braking systems are evolving, by topping up your training

Filters: The clean fast movers

As they are replaced mainly at service time, filters are one of the most popular workshop fast movers. Yet, how are filters affected by car owners cutting maintenance costs? Rob Marshall provides an update.

External factors such as escalating household bills, intensifying interest rates, burgeoning inflation, rising used car values and restricted new vehicle supplies are affecting our businesses and customers. Workshop experience, coupled with real-world data, shows an increasing age of cars on UK roads. While there have always been motorists who will cut costs to almost suicidal levels, Volkswagen Financial Services found over the summer that a third of drivers have skipped essential car maintenance due to cost pressures. This echoed the results of a similar survey, from BookMyGarage.com, last December.

We asked leading OE-quality filter suppliers whether these survey results have been reflected in reality. Their responses are inconclusive. Comline says that, in the current climate, motorists tend to save money where they can. Specifically, the company has noticed that cabin filter replacement is being skipped. First Line attests that its filter sales have grown; whereas Blue Print says that its overall filtration market is flat, compared with 2022, although it has found that fuel filter sales are showing a decline, possibly due to them being, typically, more expensive than other types. LKQ Euro Car Parts, which offers multiple filter brands, confirms that its trade customers, generally, have not switched to cheaper filters. Yet, Audura, the company's entry-level brand that caters specifically for retail customers, is performing strongly.

Avoiding cutting corners

The findings from Comline and Blue Print indicate that even where servicing is taking place, certain filters are being left out to save money. The bilstein group's Blue Print brand advises that engine efficiency, fuel consumption and performance are all affected by filter quality. Ignoring, or extending, filtration replacement is a false economy and it is a good idea to warn customers if they try to shave costs by not replacing filters. First Line confirms that worn, or clogged, cabin filters can impede the performance of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This can even pose a safety risk, especially as the demisting facility will not work as intended. First Line advises technicians to tell customers that cabin filters should be replaced annually, at least.

When to replace filters

We think that technician experience should prioritise official manufacturer maintenance schedules. The aftermarket has known for a long time that some carmakers over-egg their service intervals, especially when biennial garage visits are stipulated. Yet, this could lead to accusations that you are making work for yourself, when you really have the customer's best interest at heart. Comline shares our view and advises that we should treat manufacturer schedules as maximum timelines. Filter change intervals depend more on the conditions in which the vehicle is driven and garages should explain the potential consequences of not changing filters either on time, or when it is needed. For instance, over many years of seeing how cars perform as they age, many aftermarket professionals, who are not beholden to manufacturer schedules, advise that diesel fuel filters, oil filters (along with the engine oil) and cabin/pollen filters are renewed every year.

Are you the problem?

In challenging times, it is worth reacquainting yourself with filtration benefits. Do not forget the advantages of upselling, either - especially cabin/pollen filters

It would be easy to say that fitting new filters is so easy that even apprentices could do it but it appears that even seasoned professionals are making basic mistakes. Even air filters can be fitted carelessly, so that the edges do not make a satisfactory seal against the air filter box. Not only can this cause running issues but it can also create a hissing

noise, especially under acceleration. Comline reports that it still sees cabin/pollen filters being installed the wrong way around, where the airflow direction arrows are not noted. When replacing diesel filters, Blue Print advises that technicians pay special attention to the bleeding procedure to help avoid serious damage to the high-pressure diesel pump that relies on the fuel for its lubrication. The biggest issue is down to overtightening and cracking fuel and oil filter element housings. This explains the importance of heeding the torque values, which some manufacturers print on the cap. Furthermore, as these composite housings are relatively delicate, improvisation attempts with incorrect tools are likely to damage them.

Specialist filters

While we have considered only conventional fuel, air pollen/ cabin and oil filters, Blue Print says that technicians should also consider specialist filtration needs, including those fitted to rear-mounted All Wheel Drive Haldex filters and transmissions. Through its febi brand, the bilstein group sells complete transmission oil and filter kits for over 8,000 applications, which is worth considering when dirty oil and blocked filters have been the death knell for many automatic and twin-clutch gearboxes. The company is expanding its range to include rear differential couplings, so expect a range of Haldex Oil and filter kits to appear under the Blue Print banner, shortly.

Latest updates

To celebrate its sixth year in the UK, UFI Filters has introduced a range of Heavy Duty filters to the UK and Ireland. Through its UK warehouse and partnership with Parcelforce, UFI has sought to enhance its already high service level, by offering a next-day delivery service. Meanwhile, both Comline and First Line are expanding their EV cabin filter offerings. For instance, over 72 new part numbers have been added to the Blue Print portfolio, including those for Chinese manufacturers, MG and Maxus, as these brands become more popular on UK roads.

The diesel fuel filter (pictured right) was filthy, after being in place for only a year. Had the manufacturer's schedule been followed, it would have been left for a further twelve months

Do not forget filter upgrades, too. While cabin/pollen filters provide upgrade opportunities, keep abreast of the latest products that you can consider to bolster your revenue. For instance, clogged high-voltage battery filters cause cooling issues. An upgrade that you can make to certain Toyota Prius (ZVW30 & ZVW35) models is fitting an air filter (Blue Print part number ADBP250046) to prevent the cooling fan from becoming blocked with interior dust. This issue causes the high-voltage battery to overheat and create P0A82, or P0A84 fault codes. This modification is especially worthwhile for taxi driver customers.

Use a torque wrench, when refitting plastic filter housing caps

Suppressing supposed savings

As with filtration, owner and workshop determinations to cut costs can put the ignition system under extra strain, as Rob Marshall learns

In many ways, modern ignition systems are marvellous –while some technicians lament the passing of contract breaker points and dwell angle settings, many others say 'Good Riddance' to them. Today's ECU-controlled systems have made such regular and fiddly adjustments obsolete but this does not mean that they are maintenance-free.

As with our prior filters article, Delphi acknowledges the trend of some drivers postponing regular servicing, highlighting the need for reliable components that can tolerate not being looked at for long periods. DRiV, owner of the Champion brand, reminds us that skipping servicing is a false economy, which can lead to reduced efficiency and even significant engine damage. Despite this, modern ignition systems do not comprise many moving parts that require routine

While modern ignition systems do not require as much manual attention as those of the past, they are more reliable if regular checks spot deterioration before it causes a problem

replacement. Naturally, spark plugs are excluded but even the most basic plug lifespan has at least doubled in the last fifty years. Yet, ignition systems still need periodic checks. Delphi highlights that many parts of the ignition system, such as the spark plugs, HT leads and coil packs work together. Therefore, neglecting routine replacements and visual inspections places all components under extra stress that could shorten their lives.

Champion reports that, even with car owners looking to cut costs, it has not witnessed a significant growth in budget parts, versus OE quality spark plugs. We should be grateful for this, although a possible reason for this is that spark plugs are becoming more application-specific, especially with more recent GDI engines.

This September BoxClever garages will be picking up double points for every NTK sensor and valve they fit. That’s 200 points towards their choice of great FREE GIFTS. But that’s not all! JOINING

Consider that we are approaching glow plug replacement season, as winter encroaches

Head ruling over wallet

Spark plugs excepted, most ignition parts tend to be replaced once they fail. Meyle continues to view ignition system repairs as a growth area for the aftermarket. It reasons that, despite new technologies being available being offered by carmakers, many customers are unconvinced and choose instead to have their faithful older car repaired, rather than replaced. Meyle cites that, because the average age of a typical roadworthy motorcar is increasing, so too is the demand for spare parts.

Yet, the temptation to cut corners is still present. Hella says that cheap ignition system components introduce higher costs eventually. This is not just down to the cheaper part failing sooner but also the damage it can afflict to other components (such as ECUs), or even the engine. Champion agrees, stressing that most technicians appreciate that inexpensive parts give marginal savings at the cost of longterm expense. Despite this, Meyle reasons that repairs must remain cost-efficient and that car owners desire a good value but this does not mean they prioritise the lowest price, or the poorest quality component. The emphasis must still be on OE quality. After all, an ignition system must provide sufficient energy to the appropriate cylinder, at the right moment, thousands of times a minute. Delphi reports that any number of performance issues will result from the spark being even momentarily late, including misfiring, reduced power and poor fuel economy.

Delphi adds that you should trust the part you choose to fit but evaluating quality of a box-fresh item is not easy. While a cheap ignition coil might look near-identical on the outside, Delphi reveals the unseen benefits of its OE-quality products. These include high-quality wiring, insulation and coatings along with dependable internal windings. Vacuum production ensures also that air bubbles are removed from materials that would cause arcing, or internal short circuits. Comprehensive testing also ensures that the coils can withstand vibration, temperature extremes and moisture exposure for many years. As with many things, the issue boils down to garages and technicians trusting the brand and supplier.

What about upselling?

There are precious few opportunities to upgrade ignition system components, because the priority should be OE quality and matching the right part with the appropriate engine. Yet, keeping abreast of the latest product news remains a worthwhile exercise. While all brands mentioned within this feature are introducing new lines continually, Delphi has brought multi-spark ignition coils into the aftermarket. These units allow the spark plug to increase the spark duration and intensity, due to the coil facilitating multiple sparks within a very short time frame. Multi-spark coils have proven beneficial, especially for GDI engines, and the company claims that they can produce a 20% reduction in fuel economy in addition to smoother engine operation, improved throttle response and enhanced power delivery.

Yet, you can consider offering spark plug upgrades at service time. Champion told us that, on normally-aspirated engines, standard spark plugs tend to utilise copper centre electrodes. These can be upgraded to precious metals for increased longevity and performance. Long-life plugs are especially valuable, where access is either difficult, or significant dismantling is needed to reach them. Hella's copper spark plugs, for instance, have an 18,000 miles life. By adding a centre electrode that is made from Yttrium, this service life is

"Long-life plugs are especially valuable where access is either difficult, or significant dismantling is needed to reach them"

Do not cut corners. When replacing sensors, do not forget to clean the threads beforehand

doubled. Finally, by using Iridium, Hella says that a set of plugs can go up to 60,000 miles between replacement intervals.

Doing it right

Even with fast-moving parts, decent-quality components are influenced negatively by poor installation. Hella reports that it still finds garages selecting an inappropriate spark plug for the application, not cleaning away any contamination upon the cylinder head/plug contact surface and not torquing the spark plug to its correct value.

When fitting ignition coils, Delphi advises that incorrect torque remains an issue for mounting bolts. Should they be too loose, the coil becomes exposed to excessive vibration; too tight, the coil body can crack. The company even reports seeing technicians using hammers to install ignition coils - a situation that causes micro-cracking.

Denso also reminds garages that glow plug failure tends to occur as winter approaches.

Champion prompts us not to replace a single failed plug but they should be changed as a set. Hella adds that customers should not forget that a good maintenance schedule can highlight the early phases of glow plug failure. Meyle advises that new glow plugs should be from one manufacturer and that, where it is required, technicians do not omit to programme the glow plug control unit, afterwards.

Out of all technician errors with ignition systems, incorrect torque settings is the most common

WIPERS

New eco-friendly blades enter the market and commonly queried fitting issues are addressed with fitting guides

The wiper of choice for the eco conscious

To support its mission to contribute to a more sustainable aftermarket, and in response to the increasing demand for sustainability among consumers, Valeo has created the Canopy wiper blade. Its production results in 61% less CO2 emissions compared to a Valeo Flat Blade product representative of most wiper blades in the European market, which are produced in Asia, with a synthetic rubber and supplied in plastic packaging.

The rubber blade is made of more than 80% natural, renewable, or recycled materials, such as cane sugar, vegetable oils or carbon black from recycled tyres and uses up to 15% recycled steel in the metal structures. The product is also delivered ready to use with one pre-mounted adapter, within a 100% cardboard packaging and covers 95% of the European car parc.

• Business peaks, annual leave, training days and sickness cover

• Fully qualified and vetted vehicle technicians and MOT testers

• Contracts lasting from one day to six months at a time

• UK-wide network of over 450 contractors

• Flexible work patterns: early, late, night & weekend shifts SHORT-STAFFED?

WE PROVIDE RELIABLE TEMPORARY COVER FOR ABSENT TECHNICIANS AND MOT TESTERS IN YOUR WORKSHOP.

Contact us today to book your contractor!

Tel: 01234 432988

Email: hello@autotechrecruit.co.uk Web: autotechrecruit.co.uk

NEED FRESH TALENT FOR YOUR WORKSHOP?

TAKE ONE OF OUR INTERNS TO CHECK THEIR POTENTIAL AS A PERMANENT EMPLOYEE.

• 6 to 12-month paid internships are a new, risk-free way of bringing new talent to your workshop

• Vetted candidates with a recent IMI Level 3 automotive qualification, equipped with a starter toolkit, basic safety workwear and uniform

• Assess your intern’s skills and work ethic before commiting to bringing them on as a permanent employee

• Over 200 candidates ready for an immediate start

We have interns ready to fill roles. Get in touch today!

Tel: 01234 432988

Email: hello@autotechacademy.co.uk

Web: autotechacademy.co.uk

Simple fitting guides for trickier connections

Trico offers practical tips on two of the most queried wiper connections – the pinch tab wiper arm and Mercedes slide button connection

The pinch tab wiper arm is popular and used on the Nissan Qashqai, Fiat Punto, Ford Mondeo and many more.

The wiper arm itself has a small nub on the very end of the wiper, with two metal downward wings approximately 75mm down the wiper arm.

On the OE design, the small nub fits into a hole on the end of the wiper blade adaptor, with the blade and arm at a 45-degree angle to each other. The wiper blade then rotates around towards the wiper arm and two plastic sprung clips on the wiper adaptor lock into the metal wings of the wiper arm.

With the Trico design, the metal wings must be placed into the plastic sprung clips on the adaptor first. Then, rotate the wiper blade around towards the arm, and the end of the wiper adaptor will snap into place over the metal nub of the wiper arm.

The Mercedes slide button connection was introduced on recent Mercedes models, including A Class, B Class and C Class and is now available in Trico’s FLEX wiper blade range, and it can be a struggle to remove the original blade from the vehicle.

The wiper arm itself has a small plastic cap on its end. This cap slides forward, releasing the wiper blade from the arm. However, this cap will not slide forward while the arm is in the parc position on the windscreen. Do not force the cap forward when in this position, as it could break, requiring a main dealer replacement.

Jet Evolution Technology provides a clearer view

The Bosch Aerotwin J.E.T Blade with the new Jet Evolution Technology ensures more targeted cleaning of the windshield as the spray nozzles, integrated in the wiper, direct the washer fluid exactly in front of the wiper blade without producing a spray mist.

The patented coating of the rubber increases service life and promotes quiet performance under extreme weather conditions and the pre-assembled vehicle-specific adapter enables quick installation.

The blades are now supplied within a wood fibre-based material derived from sustainably managed forests, resulting in significantly lower CO2 emissions. All parts of the wiper packaging can be disposed of and recycled together with wastepaper.

The wiper arm needs to be lifted slightly from the windscreen – this is much easier if the wiper blades are placed into the service position first – to do this, turn the engine on then off again, and then press down the wiper stalk once. After the arm is lifted from the windscreen, gently rotate the wiper blade away from the wiper arm as far as it will go. Once the wiper has been rotated away from the arm, the sliding cap will be released and can be pushed forward. Once this is done, the wiper will simply fall away from the wiper arm. The new blade can be installed in the reverse order.

A library of fitting videos is available on: www.youtube.com/user/tricowipers/videos

MOT NEWS & EQUIPMENT

‘Dangerous’ MOT move still hangs in the balance

The government consultation on MOT reform earlier this year was conducted to ensure the MOT service was fit for purpose in the face of significant technological changes to the vehicle parc, including the adoption of ADAS and the increasing numbers of hybrid and electric vehicles on UK roads. The consensus from industry bodies was an agreement that new technology needed to be addressed but the government’s proposal to extend a new vehicle’s first MOT to four years would have a significant, negative impact.

A petition created by the Independent Garage Association, IGA, stated the move would increase road casualties caused by vehicle defects, increase vehicle repair & insurance costs as well as pollution and congestion levels. It received 11,710 signatures at time of closing in July and the last official response given by the Department for Transport on 16 May after closing its consultation follows. NB. we will share any updates within the magazine, on our website and social media as soon as any news breaks…

‘The Government consultation on MOT reform closed on 22nd March 2023. We are currently analysing the results and will release a decision in the near future.

The current MOT regime has been in place for a significant amount of time, and during that period, new types of vehicles such as hybrids and electrics have become more prevalent on our roads, and new road safety standards and vehicle safety technologies such as advanced driver assistance technologies (ADAS) have been introduced and improved considerably. We believe that it is therefore appropriate to consider whether any changes are needed to ensure that MOT testing remains fit for purpose and proportionate.

The Government appreciates all those who have taken the time to provide a response to the consultation. We will consider all the responses and evidence submitted before a decision is made. Safety is, and always will be, our priority so we will not make any change before being confident about the impacts. With that in mind, a decision will be announced in the near future once that analysis has been done.

The consultation also included a call for evidence about areas for potential longer-term MOT reform including electric vehicles and automated systems. We believe this offers the opportunity to improve vehicle safety and ensure that the MOT test benefits road users into the future.’

Upgrading to connected MOT equipment

By removing the need for manual data entry, connected MOT equipment saves time, improves accuracy and productivity, and is required by any new testing stations, those with changes of ownership or when replacing emissions testing equipment. The DVSA is looking to include electronic headlight beam testers and connected cameras, with trials already taking place.

Snap-on works closely with industry bodies to ensure its MOT equipment is future-proof and currently has a promotion

Real-time vehicle recalls

Real-time vehicle recalls information were recently added to the MOT Testing Service (MTS), the vehicle’s MOT history, MOT reminders and the MOT certificate. Manufacturers, including Toyota and Ford, agreed to share data that covers nearly half of the vehicles on UK roads. Vehicles not yet covered by an existing agreement are supported by monthly data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), although this information won’t appear on the MOT certificate. This results in testers and the public having access to 47% of the most up-to-date vehicle recall data.

Chris Price, DVSA’s Head of MOT Policy, said: “I’m really pleased that we can announce this latest improvement to our MOT digital services. We want to improve safety recall rectification rates. Providing ‘live’ recall data, and making it more available to motorists, will further help everyone to keep vehicles safe to drive on Britain’s roads.”

on its Sun brand products. The Sun connected roller brake tester meets the latest DVSA regs for connected MOT testing and when you purchase a Sun Class IV or VII brake tester before September 30th, there’s a 50% discount on the Sun DGA6000 LINK connected emissions analyser, saving £3,310 off the listed price.

Click the following link to access a guide to connected MOT equipment https://bit.ly/a-guide-to-connected-MOTequipment

If a customer has an outstanding safety recall when they bring their vehicle to test, testers are now prompted via an ‘interrupt’ screen. When an outstanding safety recall has been identified on a vehicle produced by a participating manufacturer, the customer’s MOT certificate will automatically have an additional section on it stating the vehicle is currently subject to a safety recall.

Improvements to the MOT history and MOT reminder services came into effect 16th August. For the MOT history service, motorists will receive a prompt when they enter the registration of a vehicle that has an outstanding recall.

Particulate pilot to identify removed or damaged

DPFs

DVSA Head of MOT Policy, Chris Price, looks at DfT's MOT Particle Number testing and provides insight into DVSA's connected cameras trial in the Matters of Testing blog: https://mattersoftesting.blog.gov.uk/ what-were-working-on-pn-testing-and-cameras-ingarages-trial/

Report highlights changing vehicle parc and MOT volume increase

The latest IAAF Market Intelligence Report, issued in partnership with GiPA, provides insights into MOT seasonality and vehicle sales figures.

An expected rise in MOT volume is imminent, when compared with recent years, with an estimated three million cars set to have an MOT expire this month, requiring workshops to manage resources carefully.

Fig 1, right, shows the UK leading Europe’s growth in alternative fueled vehicle sales, using data from the SMMT.

Fig 2, below, illustrates MOT seasonality over recent years, using DVSA data.

Thanks to both the IAAF and GiPA for providing information from the report, distributed to IAAF members.

SOLUTIONS FOR CAR/LCV WORKSHOPS

Save money on compressed air

Air leaks on compressed air systems are a needless business cost and if they are not turned off, they can be running in the evenings and over weekends, as air leaks call for the compressor to recharge the pressure in the system. A typical 5kw compressor running unattended for 5 mins per hour will add up to 42kw/hrs of wasted power a week, approximately £350 per year!

Straightset has created a simple, 7-day programmable timer for a motorised valve which turns the air supply from the compressor on and off up to 24 times a day if needed. It requires a simple installation, wired to an adjacent 240v spur, socket or the incoming supply to the compressor. A Wi-fi option is available.

Straightset can provide a full design to installation MOT service for those looking to add or alter existing MOT bays and can help navigate the choices such as 4-Post ATL lifts, scissor lifts, combined MOT & wheel alignment lifts, connected brake testers, jacking beams, emissions testers, headlight testers. They can even supply and fit all relevant signage for both existing and new facilities, as well as the various accessories that may be needed, from a variety of manufacturers. Email info@straightset.co.uk or call 01909 480 055 to find out more and remember to mention autotechnician!

TIP: MOT bays and wheel alignment bays can be integrated together to form a high capacity, space-saving solution to allow room for an additional service bay

PARTS, TOOLS & TIPS

New products, fitting tips & technical advice to ease fault-finding and installation

Having ignition trouble?

Autoelectro’s Harnek Bhogal and Joe Taylor focus on four vehicles and their associated faults and provide best practice advice

Dacia Sandero and Logan 0.9 petrol (2013-2022) –AEY3906

Joe: “We have heard scenarios where the ignition switch/ push to start button can remain in the start/on position and does not release after the engine has started. Consequently, this means the starter is stuck in the ‘on’ position and remains engaged, which, in turn, causes the starter motor to burn out.

“To support the technician, with every AEY3906 supplied, there is a warning notice included in the box. This advises and shows images of what a burnt-out starter motor looks like, which can help technicians determine the cause of failure.

“I should also point out that this is a common fault on the Nissan Micra and Note 1.2 petrol (2010-2018) – AEY2687 is also supplied with the best practice information.”

Chevrolet Captiva and Cruze/Vauxhall Antara 2.0 diesel (2011-2016) – AEY2803

Joe: “A common fault on this vehicle is that the wiring insulation is not correctly ‘heat shrunk’, which can cause the B+ terminal on the solenoid to overheat and melt. This issue can result in untimely failure of the starter motor.

“Like the previous examples, contained inside each AEY2803 is a warning note. This aids the technician, as it clearly shows what damage to the solenoid and terminals look like.”

"We have heard scenarios where the ignition switch/push to start button can remain in the start/ on position and does not release after the engine has started"

Austin

Metro/Rover 100 and 200 1.1-1.4 petrol (1990-2000) – AES7108

Harnek: “Going back in time a little bit here, but we still stock this starter motor! This vehicle is prone to misfire. Also, it is known for starter motor activation with the engine already running – ultimately, the ignition switch is likely to be the main culprit.

“Both these problems can cause the nose cone of the starter motor to crack and, potentially, snap off.

“Underlining our desire to offer technicians as much useful information as possible, once again with every AES7108 supplied, there is a warning notice included in the unmistakable red Autoelectro box. For comparison, we show the technician an example of a damaged nose cone.”

Toyota

Corolla and Auris 1.33 petrol (2010-2018) – AEK3380

Harnek: “As a remanufacturer of starter motors and alternators, I thought it best to include at least one example related to the latter! This particular alternator is fitted with a clutch pulley; it is driven by a serpentine belt that runs through a series of pulleys, an idler and a tensioner. If these components are not in good working order, the belt has the potential to slip and cause a reduction in the charge rate and

performance. The dust created from a slipping belt can enter the alternator and lead to its early demise.

“What’s more, a failing tensioner can also cause excessive belt noise, leading to sooner-than-anticipated belt wear and, in all likelihood, pulley failure.”

www.autoelectro.co.uk

Belt system best practice

It is necessary to replace all the components in the timing belt system, adhering to scheduled service requirements but few vehicle manufacturers inform workshops of a replacement interval for the FEAD system, even though the belts and pulleys in the two systems cover the same mileage. It is more prone to wear as it is not protected by a case or cover; vulnerable to potential damage and subsequent failure.

As the FEAD system powers many engine and safety critical components, Schaeffler advises checking the condition of the auxiliary belt, as well as the tensioners and idlers in the FEAD system, on a regular basis. Especially when a vehicle is booked in for a timing belt replacement – installing an IFA FEAD kit at the same time as a timing belt kit ensures reliability and is cost effective for the motorist.

Information on products, systems, fitting guides and labour times can be found on the free REPXPERT app or on www.repxpert.co.uk.

Fitting info hub

A new ‘car fitting’ section on the Bremboparts website provides step-by-step procedures for replacing its braking products. It can be accessed via the QR code on packaging or by clicking the support section on www.bremboparts.com

Increase your productivity

A series of mini videos are being produced by Garage Services Online, GSO, to help independents run their businesses more effectively. The first, available now, features The Garage Inspector Andy Savva discussing labour rates with GSO MD Jim Lang.

Topics will cover industry changes from new car tech to Block Exemption, when to invest in new tools and equipment, how to plan for the aging car parc, staff shortages and EVs.

The six-part video series will be available to watch on www.youtube.com/@garageservices Anyone who would like to take part can register their interest by emailing jane@garage-services-online.co.uk

Switch to Induction Heat

The Inductor® Pro-Max CE uses high frequency magnetic fields to generate Invisible Heat® in metallic car parts without the collateral damage of an open flame to nearby parts. Quickly and easily remove vinyl graphics, moldings, auto glass, windshields, mechanical and suspension parts.

APPLICATIONS:

> Back Glass

> Door Dings

> Graphics & Decals

> Nuts & Bolts

> Seam Sealers

INCLUDES:

> Spray-in Bedliners

> Body Caulking

> And 100’s more!

www.theinductor.co.uk

> Power Supply

> Fast-off® Pad

> Glass Blaster

> Concentrator

> (2) L-Wedges