Import Car, 12.2012 by Babcox Media

❯❯ PCM Diagnostics December 2012

MAGAZINE

❯❯ WIX Best Tech Profile

❯❯ Brake Pad Wear

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CONTENTS 18

Publication

Volume 34, No. 12

WIX Tech of the Year

PCM Diagnostics

How ‘Sweet’ It Is

The Sky’s Not the Limit

No-Code Sensor Failures

Kim Brant, an automotive technician at Joe’s Tire and Auto Service, St. Joseph, MO, received the second-annual WIX Best Tech award for his very distinguished automotive career.

Import Specialist Contributor Gary Goms takes a look at how to utilize one or more scan tool features to detect an intermittent, no-code sensor failure.

Uncovering Unperformed Vehicle Maintenance Bob Howlett, owner of The Swedish Solution, Orange Village, OH, shares a vehicle inspection victory that resulted in his customer opting to get her 2004 Volvo XC70 fixed, rather than buy a new vehicle for her daughter.

ImportCar Staff Publisher Jim Merle, ext. 280 jmerle@babcox.com

Managing Editor Jennifer Clements, ext. 265 jclements@babcox.com

Graphic Designer Kelly Gifford, ext. 249 kgifford@babcox.com

Circulation Manager Pat Robinson, ext. 276 probinson@babcox.com

Editor Mary DellaValle, ext. 221 mdellavalle@babcox.com

Technical Editor Larry Carley lcarley256@aol.com

Advertising Director Cindy Ott, ext. 209 cott@babcox.com

Circulation Assistant Kim Hedgepeth, ext. 260 email: khedgepeth@babcox.com

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

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DEPARTMENTS Columns

Publication

6 Editor’s Notebook

Contributing Writers

8 News Update

Gary Goms, formerly of Midland Engine Electronics & Diagnostics, Buena Vista, CO

Bob Dowie, Village Auto Works, Chester, NY

10 Guess the Car Contest

Bob Howlett, The Swedish Solution, Orange Village, OH Scott “Gonzo” Weaver, Superior Auto Electric, Tulsa, OK

14 Gonzo’s Tool Box

Editorial Advisory Board

36 Tech Feature:

Bob Dowie, Village Auto Works, Chester, NY

Brake Pad Wear

42 Import Tech Tips

Chris Klinger, Precision Incorporated, Tucson, AZ Steve Louden, Louden Motorcar Services, Dallas, TX Frank Scandura, Frank’s European Service, Las Vegas and Henderson, NV

45 Essentials (New Products)

Joe Stephens, Stephens Automotive, Palatine, IL John Volz, Volz Bros., Grass Valley, CA

47 Classifieds

51 Ad Index

Babcox Media, Inc. 3550 Embassy Parkway Akron, OH 44333-8318

52 NASCAR Performance 42

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Bill Babcox bbabcox@babcox.com

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Greg Cira gcira@babcox.com

Vice President/ Group Publisher

Jeff Stankard jstankard@babcox.com

Controller

Beth Scheetz bscheetz@babcox.com

In Memoriam

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Founder of Babcox Publications

Edward S. Babcox (1885-1970)

Chairman

Tom B. Babcox (1919-1995)

IMPORTCAR (ISSN 1069-4714) (December 2012, Volume 34, Number 12): Published monthly by Babcox Media, Inc., 3550 Embassy Parkway, Akron, OH 44333 U.S.A. Phone (330) 670-1234, FAX (330) 670-0874. Periodical postage paid at Akron, OH 44333 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to IMPORTCAR, 3550 Embassy Parkway, Akron, OH 44333. IMPORTCAR is a trademark of Babcox Media, Inc. registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office. All rights reserved. A limited number of complimentary subscriptions are available to individuals who meet the qualification requirements. Call (330) 670-1234, Ext. 260, to speak to a subscription services representative or FAX us at (330) 670-5335. Paid Subscriptions are available for non-qualified subscribers at the following rates: U.S.: $69 for one year. Canada: $89 for one year. Canadian rates include GST. Ohio residents add current county sales tax. Other foreign rates/via air mail: $129 for one year. Payable in advance in U.S. funds. Mail payment to IMPORTCAR, P.O. Box 75692, Cleveland, OH 44101-4755. VISA, MasterCard or American Express accepted. Member BPA International, Inc. Founded 1979. 䊚2012 by Babcox Media, Inc.

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

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[ Editor’sNotebook

By Mary DellaValle|EDITOR

What Keeps You Up At Night? Overcoming Next Year’s Biggest Business Challenges

s the year winds down, it’s not uncommon to think about challenges in the year ahead and how you will be addressing them. We often hear that the things that keep shop owners awake at night include those issues that relate to profitability, productivity and shop operations/expenses. When surveyed, readers tell us they are most concerned about: ❯Remaining profitable and exploring new product lines and services; ❯Being able to afford special equipment and lifts; ❯Retaining quality help and keeping them trained; ❯Keeping up high business standards and customer satisfaction; ❯Insurance, taxes and cutting

Mary DellaValle, mdellavalle@babcox.com

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

expenses; ❯Keeping up with tech information and new technology in cars; ❯Parts quality and availability; ❯Growing the business and increasing car counts; ❯Improving marketing and sales; and ❯Increasing vehicle maintenance sales. As you take a hard look at your business and create strategies to overcome these challenges, think about customer expectations and the value proposition you deliver. While the dedication and expertise you extend to fix your customers’ vehicles won’t

change, the way you interact with them will. Customer attitudes and expectations will be vastly different than what you’re used to encountering, as their desire for quicker repairs, service excellence, and demand for information and value continues to accelerate. Put on your creative thinking cap to find ways to better serve and engage your customers, and over-deliver on their service expectations. When you spend more time earning your customers’ trust and lasting loyalty, you will be taking steps to boost your profits and your bottom line. And maybe getting a better night’s sleep. IC

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[ NewsUpdate Red Hot Smokin’ Sweepstakes Winner Hits the Jackpot in Las Vegas

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Representatives from Affinia Global Brake and Chassis, manufacturers of Raybestos brake and chassis products, created some final heat and sizzle at the close of the Red Hot Smokin’ Rebate and Sweepstakes. Under the bright lights of AAPEX in Las Vegas, they presented the keys to the Raybestos 2013 ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang to its new owner — Moe Matariyeh of Global Auto Repair in Oak Lawn, IL. “I was in complete awe when I found out I won,” said Matariyeh. “I kept waiting for the phone call telling me they were just kidding.” Matariyeh said he plans to make the Mustang a key visual highlight at his growing business. When asked what he appreciated most about Raybestos brake and chassis parts, the answer came quickly… “Premium performance. It’s what we trust for our close friends and family. The reliability of Raybestos brake and chassis products beats everything else.” The signature-edition vehicle was the grand prize in the brand’s Summer 2012 North American sales promotion. Matariyeh’s winning entry was pulled from more than 160,000 entries received. “We couldn’t be more excited to present the keys to the Mustang to Moe,” said Jeff Stauffer, senior vice president, global marketing, Affinia Group. “The fact that Moe is a professional technician and loyal user of Raybestos brand products makes it even sweeter.” For more information about the sweepstakes, or to learn more about the Raybestos 2013 ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang’s distinctive features, go to www.raybestos.com.

[ NewsUpdate Centric Parts Receives Toyota Quality Alliance Gold Supplier Award Centric Parts recently was named a recipient of a Toyota Quality Alliance (TQA) Gold Supplier Award for 2012. This award was presented to representatives of the company’s StopTech brand during the annual Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Supplier Award Ceremony held at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, CA, on Oct. 24. The Gold Supplier Award is presented to top Toyota parts and accessories suppliers who have consistently demonstrated their commitment to product development, product quality, operational quality and product support. During the ceremony, Toyota Accessory Purchasing Manager David James presented the award to Greg Woo, StopTech VP of Performance Operations. In presenting the award, James said, “StopTech is a supplier who has been with Toyota for over six years and continues to work with us to develop new and exciting products for the TRD and FSport programs.” “We are honored to be recognized by Toyota,” said Woo, “This is a great testament to our whole team who work diligently to engineer and produce the highest quality OE and aftermarket brake solutions.”

Automotive Parts Associates Honors Bosch During AAPEX Meeting Automotive Parts Associates (APA) honored Robert Bosch LLC with its first-ever Vision Award at an APA shareholders’ breakfast at AAPEX. Dan Freeman, president and CEO of APA, (on right) presented the award to Bobby Bloom, Bosch’s vice president, independent aftermarket sales for North America. “We wanted to recognize Bosch in front of our shareholders and the aftermarket industry for their innovation, leadership in the industry, communication and forward thinking,” said Freeman. “In order for businesses to retain a competitive edge, they must keep pace with technological advancements, utilize the latest test equipment and make certain that their employees are continuously engaged in training and development activities. Bosch provides all that with service training centers in 35 countries around the globe.”

GUESS THE CAR! WIN $50! #10

What vehicle MAKE does the picture on the left represent? Submit your guess with our online contest form by visiting www.Import-Car.com/guessthecar. The winner will be randomly selected from correct entries and awarded $50. Entries must be received by January 1, 2013.

November Solution: Lincoln Navigator Solved by: Matt Reinhardt, owner Tune-A-Car, Aloha, OR

CONGRATULATIONS Matt! Employees of Babcox Media, industry manufacturers and ImportCar advertisers are not eligible to enter.

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

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[ NewsUpdate ImportCar Contributor Larry Bailly Passes Away ImportCar is saddened to announce the passing of its long-time contributor, Larry Arnold Bailly, who lost his nine-month battle with cancer on Oct. 30. Over the past 12 years, Larry diligently provided several technical repair articles to readers, sharing his expertise namely on BMW, Subaru, Toyota and VW/Audi nameplates. He joined the Army and served from 1968 to 1971, including a tour in Vietnam. He was an auto technician by trade and always helped friends and families fix their vehicles. Larry is survived by his wife of 22 years, Paula; his children, Evan Bailly, Paul Kleffel, Elisabeth Bailly and Rachel Bailly. He was a member of Snohomish, Washington, Community Church, where he was very involved in mission work, traveling to Yakima, Mexico, Cuba, Vietnam and his favorite, Haiti.

Beck/Arnley Recognized For Its Marketing Initiatives Beck/Arnley, Uni-Select’s foreign nameplate division, won a total of six awards at the AAPEX show in Las Vegas, including the Auto International Association (AIA) award for “Best Packaging of a New Product” for its European Coolants packaging. This is the second consecutive year that Beck/Arnley won this award. Beck/Arnley also won five 2012 Automotive Communication Council (ACC) Awards. The prizes were presented during the Women’s Board reception held on Oct. 30. ACC recognized Beck/Arnley for its Business-to-Business website (www.beckfluids.com) and also awarded the company top honors in these categories: “Social media efforts,” “Newsletter to customer or ’external’ audience,” “Aftermarket Pinterest page” and “Facebook customization of an aftermarket company.” IC

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[ Gonzo’sToolbox

By Scott “Gonzo” Weaver, owner Superior Auto Electric, Tulsa, OK

Second-Hand Information When Critical Details Get Lost in Translation

o you remember when you played the game of “telephone” as a child, and the original information being conveyed was oftentimes totally different by the time the last kid commented? The same thing can happen with a vehicle problem when more than one person is involved in getting the information to the person at the end of the line. And who’s usually at the end of the line? The tech. Second-hand information can be misleading, even totally wrong. There’s always a chance it might be correct, but I wouldn’t count on it. It depends on where that information originated. Just the other day a driver told his company dispatcher that his truck wasn’t providing any heat out of the driver’s-side vents. By the time the truck got to the shop the story was changed to, “There’s no cold air coming out of the passenger’s-side vent.” Here’s another example. A few weeks ago, I had a problem come up regarding the condition of a car that was for sale. It was a low-mileage car, and had been sitting in a garage for nearly eight years without much attention. The owner’s father-inlaw bought the car new before he passed away. The rest of the family had informed the son-in-law that everything was in tiptop shape. It definitely was clean, dent free, the paint still looked great and there wasn’t a blemish on the interior. As with any of these “moth-balled” cars, the first thing that was an issue was the battery.

When a battery sits for that long, it’s natural for it to become sulfated. So, the owner had it towed to a shop to have the battery replaced. After the new battery was installed, it took a few cranks for the engine to start. After a few coughs and shudders, the engine purred like new, but the service light was on. (This seemed to be the major concern for both the seller and the buyer.) But, by the time the car arrived at my shop, the engine codes had been cleared from the PCM by the tech who had installed the battery. All I had to go on was the second-hand information that the owner overheard from the tech who had worked on the car. “The mechanic told me it might need a tuneup, or something,” the owner proudly tells me.

Scott “Gonzo” Weaver, gonzostoolbox.com

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

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[ Gonzo’sToolbox

{

It’s that “something” that bothered me. A tune-up, maybe, or I’m thinking it might be old gas, but what’s a “something”? It really doesn’t matter at this point as the buyer jumps into the conversation and says, “Do a complete checkup for me, and let me know if it’s worth what they want for it.” There were numerous small problems to deal with, and a few major issues as well — everything from an ABS light staying on (which neither party mentioned), to a very poorly repaired alternator main positive lead. With the car in the service bay, you could hear the alternator whine grow louder and louder the longer the car ran, but at the battery terminals there was hardly anything in the way of a noticeable alternator output. What I did find was

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With the car in the service bay, you could hear the alternator

whine grow louder and louder the longer the car ran,

but at the battery terminals there was hardly anything in the way of a noticeable alternator output. that between the alternator and the battery there was a large, homemade connection that was hot enough to fry an egg on. This was causing a rather large voltage drop between the alternator and the battery. In fact, the electrical tape surrounding it was almost completely melted off. After explaining the ABS problem, the A/C and wiring issues, and all the other problems I found while checking it out, it was clear to me they were not going to purchase the car. And, once the owner finds out what I found wrong with his “tiptop” shape car, he’s going to blow a gasket, and I’m sure I’ll be on the receiving end of his frustration at the service counter. Needless to say, before I could show the owner any of the results, I had a very upset individual at the service counter. “I was told everything was in perfect working order,” the buyer shouts at me. “Do you want to see what I found out? It would be a lot easier to show you,” I told him. As I showed him the actual conditions, what he was told regarding the condition of the car came into question. It was only then that he knew he should have had a tech check it out, rather than relying on the second-hand information provided by the family. Digging through the maze of hearsay information is what a professional technician does every day. And people will always interpret what anyone says into what they “thought” they heard, making our job as a professional tech communicating repair issues even more difficult. IC

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[ TechProfile

WIX BEST TECH By Ed Sunkin, Editor, Underhood Service Magazine

2012 BEST TECH Finds the Sky’s Not the Limit When It Comes To Finding New Customers, Kim Brant Looks Outside the Box im Brant, an automotive technician at Joe’s Tire and Auto Service, St. Joseph, MO, has been named the 2012 Best Tech, sponsored by WIX Filters. WIX Filters, a member of the Affinia Group family of brands, in conjunction with Brake & Front End, ImportCar and Underhood Service magazines, named Brant the second-annual WIX Filters Best Tech during the annual Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) Meeting and Conference in Las Vegas on Oct. 29. As part of his award, he and a guest traveled to the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) for an all-expenses paid trip to Las Vegas. “From the diagnosis of electrical problems to evaluating exhaust systems to recommending the best parts — technicians play a major role in enhancing a vehicle’s performance,” said Mike Harvey, brand manager for WIX Filters. “We are thrilled to recognize Brant for the second-annual Best Tech award for his distinguished career built on outstanding customer service as a committed advisor and resource, and for his dedication to learning as vehicles become more sophisticated with a wider range of repairs and maintenance work.” Brant, an ASE-certified Master Technician and a

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

WIX Expert-Level Certified tech, said he was thrilled and humbled to receive the honor of being named a Top Tech. “With complicated systems that make up automobiles today, it is imperative that technicians provide the highest-quality service to ensure that drivers and passengers are safe on roadways,” said Brant. “I am truly delighted to win this award not only for myself but for everyone at Joe’s Tire & Auto Service. From our technicians, owners to service writers, we hold the shop to the highest standards by

WIX BEST TECH

encouraging ongoing education, implementing top-level industry standards and providing excellent customer service, which drives returning customers.” Brant, who has been in the automotive and repair service industry for 28 years, was a runner up in the 2011 Best Tech program last year. He has worked at Joe’s Tire (www.stjoeautoservice.com) for about four years, and before that, served as a technician in a few local dealerships and a few tire stores.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT In addition to his service as a technician, Brant also was recognized for his community service that includes raising money for Habitat for Humanity and the Special Olympics; as well as participating in neighborhood beautification programs and recycling efforts.

TechProfile]

his father’s business. “My father owned a Mobil service station from my infancy to my teenage years,” Brant said. “Without his involvement in the automotive world, I'm sure that I would not be involved myself.” One of the most unique jobs Brant had seen as a technician had to be the servicing of an A/C system on a local Life Flight helicopter that had been grounded. Since the law requires the A/C system to be in working order for the helicopter to be used for medical purposes, Brant was asked by his shop owner if he could fix the helicopter’s A/C system since the company that previously serviced the craft was no longer in business. Although he had never repaired a vehicle that is designed to leave the ground, Brant hit the Internet to research the helicopter’s HVAC system, grabbed his tools and headed out to Rosecrans Memorial Airport where he was greeted by the Life Flight air staff. After servicing the A/C system successfully, Brant said he was confident he would be contacted to service the system if it ever needs it in the future. Brant said he was happy to be of assistance in the Life Flight’s return to the skies, and that today’s shop’s can find business “outside the box.” “I’ve worked on a lot of unique vehicles — from Ferraris to Lamborghinis to Prowlers — but not many techs in this business can say they’ve worked on a helicopter.” IC

Besides his exceptional customer service, Brant has been active in his community’s youth organizations and local technical school. He also is credited for his penchant to go the extra mile to gain a new customer for Joe’s Tire and Auto Service, an independent repair shop that has been servicing the St. Joseph area since 1984. “My biggest enjoyment from the auto industry is the challenge of determining the vehicle failure and taking that process clear through to returning the vehicle to the customer, properly repaired,” he said. Brant, whose own “fleet” of Kim Brant, right, proudly displays vehicles includes his daily drive, his Tech of the Year trophy with a 1999 Dodge Grand Caravan, two-time NHRA Funny Car Chamalso owns a 1988 GMC 1500 4x4, pion Tony Pedregon during the and a 1966 Dodge Dart GT ConBabcox Night of Excellence vertible. His love of vehicles deawards dinner during the AAPEX veloped at an early age through show in Las Vegas.

RUNNERS-UP WIX Filters and Babcox Media also named two 2012 Best Tech finalists – Travis Luscomb from Larson’s Service, Inc. in Peabody, MA, and Kevin Dietz from BTS Tire and Service in Providence, RI. Import-Car.com

[ DiagnosticSolutions

PCM DIAGNOSTICS By Gary Goms, Import Specialist Contributor

No-Code Sensor Failures

ack in the early 1980s when on-board engine management computers were first introduced, many veteran technicians were taught that all sensor failures could be identified by a trouble code stored in the computer’s diagnostic memory. All that a diagnostic tech should do to solve a driveability problem was retrieve the trouble code and replace the faulty sensor. Thirty years later, most of us realize that no-code sensor failures are a fact of life. Unfortunately, most noPhoto 1: Since low battery voltage can cause the PCM to erase code sensor failures manifest trouble codes, testing the battery charge and condition is always the first step in solving no-code complaints. themselves as intermittent driveability complaints that are difficult to duplicate and even more difficult stalling complaint on a 1997 Toyota Camry. to solve. So, we continue investing in scan tools, Although this Camry is an older vehicle with about labscopes, and labscope accessories to help diag200,000 miles on the odometer, it well illustrates the nose what some techs call a “ghost” problem. In basic principles of how to approach a difficult nothe following text, we’ll take a look at how to uticode, intermittent stalling complaint. See Photo 1. lize one or more scan tool features to detect an During the initial interview, the customer intermittent sensor failure. claimed that the stalling condition was becoming worse with time. The vehicle would stall at stoplights and occasionally hesitate at highway AN INTERMITTENT STALL speeds. Based upon those symptoms, the owner had replaced the crankshaft position sensor Intermittent stalling complaints are perhaps the (CKP) with no result. most difficult to solve because any component part of the engine’s electronic management system can be at fault, from the PCM itself to a simple ground CODE SET PARAMETERS connection on the engine. The case study I’ll be using to illustrate this topic involves a no-code Before attempting to solve a no-code failure, let’s

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

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[ DiagnosticSolutions PCM DIAGNOSTICS

look at how the PCM detects failed sensors or sensors that are operating outside of specified parameters. First, the correct operating conditions (enabling criteria) must be present before the PCM can run the test monitor required to detect a sensor failure. In order to “round up the usual suspects” for an intermittent stalling condition, let’s look at some typical enabling criteria for a CKP, O2 and MAF sensor failure. According to one source, the enabling criteria for a 1997 Toyota CKP “A” circuit failure (P0335) is that, (a) the engine is cranking and (b) the PCM didn’t detect any signals from the CKP or (c) with engine speeds in excess of 600 rpm, it was, at some point, missing the CKP signal during two vehicle trips. To store a code, the PCM might also apply a numerical standard to a sensor’s performance. Using an oxygen sensor slow response code (P0153) as an example, the response time for the O2 sensor to change from rich to lean must exceed one second of time before the code can be stored. Keeping in mind that the PCM might briefly lean the air/fuel mixture to run this test monitor, the PCM might compare the oxygen sensor voltage against a numerical standard (less than 0.5 volts, more than 0.5 volts), and also numerically compare this response time in seconds with another standard (one second in time). Another way a PCM might

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store a code is by “rationalizing” or comparing various sensor inputs. The PCM might measure mass air flow (MAF) sensor performance by comparing the airflow indicated by the MAF with the indicated throttle position (TP) sensor voltage and engine speed. In other words, 75% throttle at 2,500 rpm should mathematically produce an estimated “X” grams per second of airflow. If the MAF’s indicated airflow doesn’t match the estimated airflow, a P0100-series code should be stored. But that isn’t always the case with many applications. The process of rationalization is very application-specific, so you’re going to see differences in how sensor rationalization is applied to various models and model years. Last, the PCM can detect open, shorted or shorted-to-ground circuits by supplying what is known as a “bias” voltage to the circuit in question. For example, the PCM might supply a 0.48-volt bias voltage to a zirconia oxygen sensor input circuit. Key on, engine running (KOER) with a constant reading of 0.48 volts might indicate an open circuit. A reading in excess of 0.48 might indicate a short to oxygen sensor heater voltage. A reading of 0.00 volts might indicate that the circuit is shorted to ground. Many PCMs are similarly programmed to measure amperage flow through an oxygen sensor heater. If the current exceeds 2.0

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[ DiagnosticSolutions PCM DIAGNOSTICS

or “troubleshooter” menus for diagnosing vehicle-specific problems. In other cases, on-line professional databases will provide a technician with a list of anecdotal pattern failures and repairs. In the case of our Toyota Camry, a professional on-line repair information system indicated that a very high percentage of engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor failures were causing various types of stalling and hesitation problems. Of course, many of the listed stalling complaints were also caused by a majority of the engine management sensors. Returning to the scan tool, the most useful feature I’ve found for diagnosing intermittent, no-code failures is the ability of many aftermarket scan tools to graph sensor voltages. After a recent update, my scan tool can graph and record nearly every sensor listed on its menu. Although I use graphing to locate internal wiring breaks and other unusual failures, this was the first time I used it to diagnose an intermittent sensor failure by looking at every data line. In this case, I used the manual trigger to ensure that I would capture any fault. When diagnosing any intermittent problem, it’s important to

Photo 2: Although this battery cable is obviously corroded, it’s best to leave it undisturbed during the initial diagnostic procedure.

amps or is less than 0.25 amps, a P0135 DTC might be stored, which indicates a problem with the Bank 1, sensor 1 circuit. See Photo 2.

TYPE ‘A’ AND ‘B’ CODES It’s always important to poll each vehicle module for DTCs because various “B” or “C” body control codes might be present that won’t turn on the MIL. As for engine performance, a type “A” or onetrip failure, such as a severe ignition misfire, will immediately turn the malfunction indicator light (MIL) on and store a P0300series trouble code. On the other hand, a type “B” two-trip code or pending trouble code won’t turn on the MIL until a second trip confirms a sensor failure.

THE NO-CODE FAILURE Fortunately, scan tool manufacturers continue to add more diagnostic features, including various TSBs

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[ DiagnosticSolutions

PCM DIAGNOSTICS

Reviewing the captured leave the vehicle in an “as-dedata, I discovered that the inlivered” condition. Sure, the dicated ECT abruptly drops battery cables might need from about +140° to -4° F. This cleaning, but first check for failure is self-explanatory beexcessive voltage drop (a cause this level of temperature maximum of 0.5 volts) from Photo 3: Notice that the engine coolant temperature abruptly dips from about +140° to -4° F. differential will drastically the battery post to the battery modify the air/fuel ratio in terminal. Because I’ve found the engine. The apparent reason a P0116 ECT sensor that many no-code sensor failures can be caused by performance code wasn’t stored was because the a bad battery wiping out the keep-alive memory duration of the ECT calibration failure didn’t meet during cranking, it’s very important at this time to the enabling criteria for the code. See Photo 4. check battery state-of-charge (SOC) and condition. In this case, I was lucky to get the capture, because It’s also best to let the vehicle cold-soak overnight I couldn’t get the failure to duplicate while waiting and test from a cold start-up the next morning. In for delivery of a new ECT sensor. Without the the case of my stalling Toyota, about five to eight “smoking gun” captured on the scan tool data minutes after a cold start-up, I felt the engine “hicgraph, I could have spent hours, and even days, cup” and then recover. I instantly hit the trigger chasing the elusive stalling complaint that was causbutton and captured this display shown in Photo 3. ing the owner of the 1997 Camry so much grief. IC

Photo 4: Notice that the wiring insulation is cracked just above the green ECT sensor connector. Before cleaning and performing repairs, I performed a wiggle test just to ensure that the ECT sensor itself was causing the problem.

Gary Goms is a former educator and shop owner who remains active in the aftermarket service industry. Gary is an ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician (CMAT) and has earned the L1 advanced engine performance certification. He also belongs to the Automotive Service Association (ASA) and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

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[ VolvoFeature

SERVICE SOLUTIONS By Bob Howlett, owner, The Swedish Solution

t snowed last night in our city and I knew the calls would be coming. The first snow always makes the phone ring, but she didn’t call. Instead, she was waiting for me when I showed up for work at 7:45. I knew the car; her daughter drove it. It’s a 2004 Volvo XC70. It was overdue for service and there were several things the owner had been putting off. She told me the car had been pulling to the right during braking, and with the slippery roads last night, her daughter hit a curb. We pulled the car in the bay to check it out and didn’t find anything that was bent or broken, but the car badly needed tires. The tires had been OK for summer driving, but they were going to be dangerous this winter. I knew what was coming next. “It’s an old car and I don’t know if I want to put that much money into it,” she said. “It’s due for a lot of other stuff, too, so maybe I will just get another car.” I hear that occasionally. So, I told her, “Let’s see what it would take to put the car back together and make it dependable, and you can spend the weekend looking at newer used cars, and then you can make a good, informed decision whether you want to fix this car or buy a newer car.”

Photo 1

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Photo 2

The Volvo was 15,000 miles overdue for the timing belt and tensioner ($550), and add another $225 for the water pump. The rollers in the rightfront window were broken, so you couldn’t roll down the window. Well, you could, but it would cost about $150 to roll it up again. The hard pull to the right when braking was not due to a problem with the brakes. It’s common on the 2000 and up Volvo S80, S60, XC90 and XC70 models for them to pull when braking due to worn front control arm rear bushings and that was the case with this car. Add $500, plus an alignment at $120. And, let’s not forget the tires. If we’re going to fix the car, she is going to keep it at least a few years, so let’s put on some good snow tires for the winter ($600) and she can buy some new summer tires next spring. We’ll change the oil and replace the cabin air filter. The battery is five years old and it failed a load test, plus the windshield wipers are beat. For all those items, add $300 to the bill. With tax, it was going to cost about $2,700 to make it a worry-free car. She and her daughter went car hunting that weekend and I got the call Monday morning. “There really isn’t anything

Photo 3

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[ VolvoFeature nice that costs less than $10,000, and my daughter really likes that car, so let’s fix it. I love hearing those words.

Getting Started We’ll begin with the timing belt. Remove the cross bar that attaches to the upper torque mount. See Photo 1 on page 28. >Cut the tie wrap on the passenger’s-side. See Photo 2 on page 28. >Unplug the coolant level sensor (see Photo 3 on page 28) and set the coolant tank (see Photo 4) and the power steering reservoir on top of the cam cover and out of the way (see Photo 5). >Disconnect the top bleed hose on the coolant tank and plug it to make it easier.

SERVICE SOLUTIONS

>Remove the serpentine belt. >Remove the two bolts and unfasten the two clips to remove the upper belt cover (see Photo 6) so that you can remove the main belt cover that is held in by just one bolt (see Photo 7). >After the main cover is removed, you’ll need to reinstall the upper cover to line up the timing marks (see Photo 8). The main belt cover has the engine serial number (see Photo 7), which you’ll need to make sure you have the correct timing components. Note: Most of the 5-cylinder Volvo engines use one of two different setups, depending on the year and engine serial number. One has a tensioner with large ears and one has small ears (see

The Aftermarket ‘Sweet Spot’ Older-age Vehicles Continue to Fuel Service Opportunities for the Aftermarket An educational approach to inform customers how preventive maintenance can further extend the life of their vehicle, improve performance and use less gas can be a primary driver of service and repair sales on older-age vehicles. There are 180 million “older” vehicles (6 years and older) on the road. That breaks down as: 73 million in the 6-10-year range and 107 million in the 11-plus-year range. The aftermarket stands to gain more than $3 billion in Do It For Me (DIFM) service business over the next three to four years based on data from R.L. Polk and IMR.

Photo 5

Photo 6

Photo 8

Photo 9

Photo 4 Photo 7

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

Circle #31 for Reader Service

[ VolvoFeature Photo 9 on page 30). The torqueing procedure is different, so check the serial number and make sure you have the correct parts. >Remove the RF wheel and after removing the plastic nut (see Photo 10) on the inner fender liner, you can fold the liner up and out of the way (see Photo 11). >Turn the crank pulley clockwise until the timing marks line up. Turn the crank a Âź-turn farther clockwise, and then back again until the marks are lined up. Remove the bolts that hold the crank pulley on and remove it. You can now see the mark on the crank pulley gear (see Photo 12). >Now lock the cams (see Photo 13), loosen the tensioner

and remove the belt, tensioner and idler roller. >Remove the bolts that hold the water pump and remove the pump (see Photo 14 on page 34). Then, clean everything up and put it back together. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want any problems down the road, so install a complete timing belt kit. >First, install the new water pump, then install the idler pulley and loosely fit the tensioner. Put the new timing belt around the crank first, then the idler, intake cam, exhaust cam, water pump and lastly the tensioner. Reinstall the crankshaft pulley. Note: Follow the recommended tensioning sequence depending on your engine number and timing belt kit. The earlier tensioner gets

Photo 10

Photo 11

Photo 12

Circle #32 for Reader Service

SERVICE SOLUTIONS

Photo 13

[ VolvoFeature turned counterclockwise to tension the belt, and the later tensioner gets turned clockwise. Our engine serial number is after 3188689, so we have the later tensioner. >Turn the crank slowly and carefully clockwise until the belt is tight between the intake cam, the idler pulley and the crankshaft. Hold the center screw on the tensioner so it won’t move. Turn the eccentric clockwise until the indicator passes the two marking ears, and then turn it back so that it is in the middle of the two marking ears. This should be done on a cold engine that is approx. 70° F. >Hold the tensioner in position and tighten the center screw on the tensioner to 20 Nm (see Photo 15). Make sure the indicator is still in the proper position. Once secured, you should be able to push on the timing belt and the tensioner indicator should move easily. >Turn the crankshaft two full turns clockwise and doublecheck your timing marks. If everything looks good, reinstall the front timing cover, the upper cover and the serpentine belt. Now would be a good time to replace the old serpentine belt, if it hasn’t been done in a while. Also check the power steering reservoir and coolant expansion tank. Make sure all the power steering and coolant hoses are routed correctly and secured. >Install the crossbar and secure the inner fender liner. Remove the lower control arms and

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

SERVICE SOLUTIONS

press in the new bushings before you put the wheel back on. It’s easy to see the rear bushing in the front control arm is completely separated (see Photo 16).

Down Under >Disconnect the ball joint (see

Photo 14

Photo 17) and remove the three bolts that hold the control arm to the chassis, two for the front bushing and one for the back. We put the control arm in the vise (see Photo 18) and use an air chisel that easily removes the old bushing. >Clean the inner surface and

Photo 15

Photo 17

Photo 16

Photo 18

Photo 19

VolvoFeature] SERVICE SOLUTIONS

move over to the press. The bushing has been in the freezer for a couple of hours so that helps it slide in much easier. Volvo has a special tool for this procedure, but a large socket and the press plate work really well. When installed, the distance between the lower part of the control arm and the top of the bushing should be 40 mm. Make sure the suspension is loaded at ride height before torqueing the control arm bolts. >We did both front control arms and then gave the car a good alignment. A good alignment is making sure the alignment specifications are in the middle of the acceptable range, preferably optimal and not just barely in the acceptable range. We don’t want our new tires to show any abnormal wear. >We changed the oil, installed the new battery and put in a new cabin filter. We replaced both window regulator rollers and made sure the windows went up, as well as down. Our long-time expert tech John (see Photo 19), who did most of the work on the car, mounted up the new snow tires and put the finishing touches on the XC70. We testdrove the car and got it ready to deliver. These days, money is a little tighter and customers sometimes fix only what they “have” to fix. Sooner or later, they’ll reach a point, especially if they have been putting off repairs, when a choice will have to be made — Do I put $2,000-$3,000 into my old car or buy a newer car? With your guidance, your customers can make an intelligent, informed decision. It seems to me more and more people are fixing up their older cars. This is good news for independent repair shop owners like us. Let’s get busy and help them. IC Bob Howlett joined the Swedish Solution crew in 1985 and bought the business eight years ago. Bob is an ASE-certified Master Technician and is an L1 Advanced Level Specialist. The Swedish Solution specializes in Saab, Volvo, VW and Audi, but it employs four ASE Master Technicians who can service all makes and models. Circle #35 for Reader Service

[ TechFeature

BRAKE PAD WEAR By Andrew Markel, Editor, Brake & Front End Magazine

Service Tips & Guidelines Regarding Brake Pad Wear ● Rotors should wear evenly. The plates of the rotor should wear at the same rate. If one plate is thinner, it will affect the thermal and structural properties of the rotor. ● Always replace calipers in pairs. Failing to do so can result in a braking imbalance or pull. ● If the pads and rotors have been worn past recommended levels, inspect the caliper’s piston boot and the piston. Once the piston has been out so far, it may not retract properly. ● Corrosion on the outside of a caliper can extend inward to the bore of the guide pins and squeeze the bushings. Replacement of the caliper is recommended. ● Brake wear should be the same on both sides of the axle. ● The piston seal loses its flexibility as it ages. This will not allow the piston to return to its rest position, which can cause the brakes to drag and increase pad wear.

● Follow the recommended OE procedure to adjust the parking brake. Not doing so may result in overheated brake pads. ● Once a brake pad has been heat tortured, that signals the end of its useful life. ● All calipers should be inspected for wear and damage to the piston boots and seals. Piston boots can be punctured by road debris or improper installation. A puncture will allow moisture and other corrosive material into the piston seal area, causing damage to the seal. ● Tapered pad wear is normal for some vehicles, especially for small, rear-floating caliper designs used on rear brakes. Check for a wear specification in the service information. ● Some vehicles equipped with electronic brake distribution may have faster-than-normal rear brake pad wear rates. This is normal, in some cases. The reason for this wear is because the rear brakes are used to control nose dive. If the wear is greater than expected, check for TSBs. Often, the OEM will issue new software for the hydraulic control module that solves the problem.

Andrew Markel

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

[ TechFeature Even Wear Pads have equal amounts of friction material, within 2-3 mm, on both pads. Cause: • Brake caliper and connected hydraulics are operating properly. Solution: • Replace the brake pads. • Replace hardware including abutment and anti-rattle clips. • Service caliper guide pins and slides.

BRAKE PAD WEAR

Solution: • Replace the brake pads. • Service the caliper guide pins and bushings. Replace if necessary. • Service the caliper slides and lubricate. • Inspect the caliper for damage to the guide pin holes. Replace if they are damaged or corroded.

Outer Pad Wear

Even Wear Outer Pad Wear The outboard brake pad shows increased wear when compared to the inboard pad. Causes: • Outer pad is continuing to ride on the rotor after the caliper releases. • Caliper guide pins and bushings are seized. • Pads are seized in the slides.

Circle #38 for Reader Service

Inner Pad Wear The inboard pad shows increased wear when compared to the outboard pad. Causes: • Worn caliper piston seal is not allowing the piston to return to the rest position. • Caliper guide pins and bushings are seized. • Pads are seized in the slides. • Piston has damage or corrosion. • Problem with the master cylinder.

Circle #39 for Reader Service

[ TechFeature

BRAKE PAD WEAR

• Service the caliper guide pins and bushings. Replace if necessary. • Service the caliper slides and lubricate. • Inspect the caliper for damage to the guide pin holes. Replace if they are damaged or corroded.

Inner Pad Wear Solution: • Replace the brake pads. • Inspect the hydraulic brake system and check for residual brake pressure. • Service the caliper guide pins and bushings. Replace if necessary. • Service the caliper slides and lubricate. • Inspect the caliper for damage to the guide pin holes and piston boot. Replace if they are damaged or corroded.

Tapered Pad Wear Friction material is worn in a wedge pattern. This can happen horizontally or vertically. Causes: • Errors made during the installation of the pads. • Worn caliper guide pin bushings. • One guide pin or slide seized. Solution: • Replace the brake pads.

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

Tapered Pad Wear

to the guide pin boots and piston boot. Replace if any signs of heat damage are present. • Service the caliper guide pins and bushings. • Service the caliper slides and lubricate. • Inspect the caliper for damage to the guide pin holes. Replace if damaged or corroded. • Adjust the parking brake.

Cracking, Glazing or Lifted Edges on the Pads

Cracking, Glazing or Lifted Edges on the Pads The friction material on the pads is damaged physically and shows signs of thermal distress. Causes: • Driver overused the brakes. • Improper bedding/break-in procedure when the pads were installed. • Defective brake pads. • Hydraulic system problems are preventing the release of pressure. • Caliper not about to release due to seized components. • Parking brake not retracting fully. Solution: • Replace the brake pads. Re-evaluate pad selection. • Perform the recommended break-in procedure. • Inspect the caliper for damage

Overlapping Friction Material The top edge of the pad overlaps the top of the rotor. Causes: • The wrong rotor or pad is on the vehicle. • Worn guide pins, caliper bracket or caliper. Solution: • Replace the pads. • Check rotor diameter with OE specifications. IC

Overlapping Friction Material

Circle #41 for Reader Service

[ ImportTechTips MAZDA LEAK FROM REAR HEATER PIPE

During winter driving, especially in the 23 “Salt Belt” states, water containing salt may accumulate in the black plastic pipe cover and/or the brackets of the wheel housing. This may cause corrosion and perforation of the rear heater pipe, resulting in coolant seepage from the rear heater pipe. To correct this concern, mass production has been changed as follows: 1. The material of the heater pipe has been changed from steel to aluminum. 2. A urethane protector has been added around the rear heater pipe, and the black plastic pipe cover for the wheel housing has been deleted. Vehicles with this concern should be repaired using the procedure shown in this bulletin. Applicable Model(s)/VINs: 2000-’01 MPV (equipped with rear heater) with VINs JM3 LW28**Y0100038 - 10214436 (built March 31, 1999 through Aug. 8, 2003) 2002-’03 MPV (equipped with rear heater) with VINs JM3 LW28**20300025 - 30378937 (built March 31, 1999 through Aug. 8, 2003) Repair Procedure: 1. Secure the vehicle on a hoist. 2. Raise the vehicle and locate the rear heater pipe (rear) in the right rear wheel well. 3. Remove the black plastic pipe cover. Note: Discard the black plastic pipe cover. It will not be reused. 4. Inspect the rear heater pipe (front) and rear heater pipe (rear) for signs of coolant seepage. Note: The rear-side bracket is more likely to be rusted. If there is no rust or rust is very light (white rust), replacement is not required. 5. Remove the seeping side of the rear heater pipe. Note: It is not necessary to remove the front crossmember and stabilizer bar to remove the rear heater pipe (front). 6. If the rear-side of the rear heater pipe is seeping and needs to be replaced, also inspect the heater pipe attachment bracket for rust, cor-

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

Fig 1: Mazda

Fig 2: Mazda

rosion or breakage after the rear heater pipe (rear) is removed. 7. Using a power cutting tool, cut off the top of the bracket leaving only welded bracket flanges. See Fig. 1. Warning: Be sure to wear safety goggles when using power cutting/grinding tools. Caution: After cutting the top of the bracket off, grind any sharp edges off the flanges. 8. Place the new bracket on top of the welded flanges. See Fig. 2. 9. Mark the holes using the new bracket as a template. 10. Using a 4 mm drill bit, drill two holes. 11. Apply rust-preventative sealer inside the new holes. 12. Attach the new bracket to the body using two self-tapping screws. 13. Once the bracket is secured, apply siliconbased sealer on top of the screws and flanges. See Fig. 3 on page 44. 14. Install the new rear heater pipe (rear), securing it to the bracket. 15. If the rear heater pipe (front) is also seeping and needs to be replaced, install a new one. Note: It is not necessary to remove the front crossmem-

Circle #43 for Reader Service

[ ImportTechTips Fig 4: Mazda Fig 3: Mazda

ber and stabilizer bar to install the rear heater pipe (front). 16. Add coolant to the cooling system. See Fig. 4. Note: If the vehicle is equipped with a water valve (under hood), ensure the valve is in the “open” position. If the valve is closed, the front heater will not provide heat. Refer to service bulletin 07-004/04 (MPV – Lack of Warm Air From Front Heater) issued Aug. 02, 2004 for additional information. 17. Verify proper heater operation once the repair is complete. 18. Complete an “Authorized Modification Label” with

“SSP65” written on the sticker and affix it to the vehicle’s hood. Courtesy of ALLDATA.

KIA CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ON WITH MAF SENSOR CODE

Applications: 2003-’05 Rio 1.6 Customer Concern: The check engine light is on and there is a mass air flow (MAF) sensor range/performance code in the system. The engine will hesitate at times. Tech Tips: The P0101 code is more of a rationality check. The MAF sensor signal isn’t ration-

Circle #44 for Reader Service

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

ally making sense comparing to things like throttle position and engine rpm. Tests/Procedures: 1. Check freeze-frame data for engine parameters when the code sets, and get the throttle position sensor (TPS) voltage, MAF sensor voltage and engine rpm, etc. to help find a potential cause for the problem. Verify the re-flash for code P0101 has been performed; read Kia TSB under engine volume 3, #20 for a re-flash for this code. 2. Verify that there are no air leaks — even a loose oil fill cap or a pulled out dipstick can set this code. 3. Check the MAF sensor for battery voltage on the red/green wire, ground on the yellow wire and output voltage on the green/yellow wire. Look for about 0.6 to 0.8 volts at warm idle. 4. Check the TPS signal voltage on the white wire — specification is 0.2 to 0.8 volts closed throttle and then a nice, smooth voltage increase as the throttle is opened. Courtesy of Identifix. IC

Essentials]

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Airtex Fuel Delivery Systems has launched 360° photos to its online Product Search Catalog, www.air texproducts.com. It’s often difficult to see all of the important features of a fuel pump, now by simply clicking and dragging the photo, the user can rotate to the exact spot that needs to be viewed. Searching applications by VIN, year/make/model or part number provides customers with product-specific installation and tech tip videos, instruction sheets, TSBs and more. Circle #90 for more information

AutoEnginuity recently announced the release of ScanTool 11.0 for the Windows platform, which features enhanced 2012 model year coverage for all supported makes and the introduction of enhanced coverage for Ferrari and Maserati. Other features include added functions to the Mercedes enhanced support, and S Class service reset support; Mazda2 2011-’12 EPS steering calibration support; and fixed freeze frame for the ProLine connectors on older ISO vehicles. Circle #92 for more information

Advance Auto Parts Professional now offers Wearever Platinum, a line of premium ceramic brake pads engineered to deliver quieter braking and superior stopping power. Wearever Platinum features the SoundLock Plus diamond-pattern, four-layer shim to lock in sound and utilizes CleanestWheelTechnology for superior dust reduction. Visit www.advancepro2pro.com/platinum. Circle #91 for more information

To satisfy the growing demand for ECU reprogramming, Bosch has developed the Flasher Pro Bundle, which offers shops three levels of comprehensive reprogramming capability. These packages cover different end-user needs while addressing key reprogramming aspects, including protecting the vehicle’s ECU while being reprogrammed. All of these kits include an informative DVD with J2534 videos covering the basics of reprogramming, tools needed and much more. Circle #93 for more information

NAPA is the handy place to get gifts for a handyman this season. This December, stop into a participating NAPA AUTO PARTS Store and pick up a GearWrench 7-Piece Ratcheting Wrench Set, in standard or metric, for just $29.99. Or a Crescent 5-Piece Locking Pliers Set, just $26.99. Promotion ends Dec. 31, 2012, while supplies last. Visit www.NAPAOnline.com. Circle #94 for more information

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Continental Commercial Vehicles & Aftermarket has expanded its line of VDO blower motors, blower wheels, cooling fan motors and cooling fan assemblies to more than 1,500 SKUs. New additions include fan assemblies and blower motors for import and domestic vehicle applications. VDO motors feature thicker windings, larger commutators and dual bearing technology for optimal operation and longer life. Circle #96 for more information

FX Exhaust has introduced its 2007-â&#x20AC;&#x2122;12 Nissan Versa (FX8040) and Sentra (FX8041) muffler pipe repair kits, which use heavy OE flanges and 16 ga. tubing to slip over cut ends of resonator and muffler pipes. They can be clamped or welded in place. Gasket and hardware enclosed provide an affordable repair option to muffler replacement. Kits are available from selected warehouse distributors. Visit www.fxexhaust.com. Circle #95 for more information

The new Bendix enhanced online catalog allows users to input the VIN to find the appropriate part number, with specs and a link to a troubleshooting video, saving time and eliminating the need for a phone call with a rep or distributor. These new upgrades come on the heels of several e-catalog enhancements Honeywell Friction Materials made earlier this year. The company has also launched the Bendix catalog app for smartphone users, allowing techs to quickly look up parts information and access images and product specs. Circle #97 for more information

December 2012 | Import-Car.com

Rislone introduces a full line of superconcentrated fuel additives, packaged in six-ounce bottles featuring Risloneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new patent-pending EZ Nozzle delivery system that works on any vehicle, including those equipped with capless or obstructed fuel systems. The new line includes: Fuel Injector Cleaner with Upper Cylinder Lubricant, Fuel Injector & Carb Cleaner, Octane Booster, Gas Treatment, Ethanol Fuel Treatment and Water Remover Fuel Dryer. Circle #98 for more information

The MAHLE Clevite Inc. comprehensive line of MAHLE Original aftermarket replacement filters provides comprehensive coverage for oil, fuel, air and cabin air filters for most European imports, which account for 10-11% of the cars on the road. The precise nature of the engines under these hoods means that MAHLE must take an active role in the design and function of the filtration components. MAHLE Original filter material and quantity of media has been engineered with OE input to trap the contaminants without restricting flow. Circle #99 for more information

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Track Talk New Look Ready For ‘Sixth Generation’ 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Race Car NASCAR recently unveiled a new look for the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car, an integral and exciting step in the rollout process of the sixth generation race car. “These changes are an extension of the unprecedented collaboration with the auto manufacturers on the 2013 car, great industry feedback and our focus on increasing fan affinity as part of NASCAR’s Industry Action Plan,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR senior vice president of racing operations. The sixth-generation car’s new look will debut with the opening of the 2013 Speedweeks, highlighted by the 55th running of the Daytona 500 on February 24 at Daytona International Speedway. The development and design of the latest NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car continues a robust tradition of styling that dates back to the earliest days of the sport. Among the updates: • The driver’s last name featured on the windshield; • Sponsor decals will not be permitted on the headlights and taillights, two key distinguishing characteristics of the auto manufacturers’ brand; • Car numbers will be moved from the lights to the front and rear bumpers; • A single sponsor logo will be permitted on the roof under the number; • Team sponsor decals will be permitted to extend past the front edge of the b-post; • “Step and repeat”/background patterns will be permitted on the sides of the car; • Due to the slightly smaller car, the car number will be reduced by 10%

and the contingency decals will be reduced to 26 square inches. Preparations for the rollout of the new NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race car continue with a great deal of excitement. NASCAR has secured two additional test dates at Charlotte Motor Speedway — Dec. 11-12 and Jan. 17-18 — as an option for those teams that want to supplement their new car testing schedule. Daytona Preseason Thunder, the annual three-day NASCAR Sprint Cup test session at Daytona International Speedway, will be held Jan. 10-12. “We’ve put together an aggressive and extensive testing schedule for the new car and we are pleased with how

things are progressing,” said Robin Pemberton, NASCAR vice president of competition. “We have the opportunity to provide teams with a couple more optional test dates at a mile-and-a-half race track as we look to provide the most exciting and competitive racing that we possibly can. The Daytona Preseason Thunder testing will give teams the chance to prepare their cars for Speedweeks and the running of the Daytona 500.” The ultimate goal for the 2013 season is, of course, to have readily brand-identifiable cars for manufacturers Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota that are just as racy as they look. “The new car has generated a lot of excitement and anticipation,” continued Pemberton. “We’re looking forward to seeing it in competition next year.”

The 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars will have several changes, including having the driver's last name on the windshield.

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Circle #53 for Reader Service

Circle #54 for Reader Service