How do you know when it’s time to flush coolant? Technicians may have different views on the subject, but Dorman Training Center instructor Pete Meier explains how using a test strip at every service is a surefire way to get an accurate picture of the coolant’s health.
Most late-model cars have a USB charging port for smartphones and other devices. In older vehicles, many owners have added USB charging capabilities with cigarette lighter adapters powered by accessory circuits. USB charge ports are used frequently, and today’s techs need to know how to test, diagnose, and repair these systems. This video gives an overview of tools, techniques, and common problems for customer cars. With the right equipment, you’ll be able to test USB ports for voltage and amperage, check cables for connection issues, and even simulate a load on the charging system. Not all USB charging components are created equally, and because most customers are mixing and matching devices from different manufacturers, the right tools and techniques become essential for troubleshooting.
Technician A completed a compression test, noting high readings suggest an exhaust restriction, while Technician B says the test checks volumetric efficiency.
Many high-end scan tools come with a capable digital storage oscilloscope. Time to put that tool to work.
Technician A and Technician B are discussing ways to use fuel trim as a troubleshooting aid. Technician A says that fuel trims that are correcting for a lean condition at high RPM and load conditions indicates a problem in fuel delivery. Technician B says that this condition is caused by a vacuum leak.
Technician A is diagnosing a misfire. He states that a misfire is caused by a fault in the ignition system and that new plugs and coils will repair the problem. Technician B says that a misfire is detected when the ECM detects a variation in crankshaft speed.
Diagnosing the cause of a battery drain can be a challenge today.
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