Brake & Front End

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Tech Tip: All Wheel Drive Synergies for Brakes, Transmission and Transfer Case

There are very few all-mechanical controls left on late-model vehicles. Almost all powertrain controls are electromechanical using a computer as the controller. These include powertrain control of the accelerator pedal with the latest being All Wheel Drive (AWD). The brakes and damping are also electromechanical under electronic control. There are peripheral systems that are all computer controlled... More

Tech Tip: Fix for a Leaky GM Rear Axle

Drivers of certain General Motors vehicles may complain of fluid seeping or leaking from the rear axle. To correct this, install a rear differential hose, clamps and a new metal differential vent following the procedures in this Tech Tip. More

Tech Feature: Diagnosing and Replacing Chassis & Ride Control Parts

Worn chassis parts are often-overlooked causes of tire wear, steering and handling problems, and even road noise. Worn tie rods are the most common culprit for causing rapid tire wear, but worn control arm bushings or ball joints can also contribute to tire wear. More

Alignment & Suspension Specs: Ford Focus

In 2000, the Ford Focus represented a radical change in the domestic small car segment. Now as we enter a new decade, the current Focus platform is going into its last year of production and not too much has changed in the alignment department in 10 years, except the specs from year to year. The second-generation Focus uses the same suspension configuration as the 2000-2007 models. The restyled second... More

BMW Control Systems: DSCs, DTCs and DBCs Dial in ABS, Handling and Traction

Automotive technology continues to evolve in several directions. While many manufacturers are concentrating on electric and hybrid technology, higher mileage, and smaller and lighter vehicles, others are focused on performance, horsepower and ever-higher top speeds. All manufacturers, however, are concerned with safety and ease of control, mostly due to upcoming U.S. Federal safety mandates. By 2012... More

Tech Tip: Repairing Various Faults in MINI ABS, ASC and DSC Systems

When the Check Engine, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Flat Tire Monitor Lights on a 2002 Mini Cooper are turned on, various faults may be stored in the ABS/ASC/DSC fault memory. More

Can do CAN: A Simple Look at a Complex System

Ever wonder how your cable TV comes into your home on that single coaxial cable? In simple terms... it's like a CAN system. A good definition of a CAN system would be: High speed communication sent via data lines to and from components. More

Tech Feature: Identifying Suspension Bushings that Cause Squeaks, Knocking Noises and Vibration Complaints

Worn or hardened suspension bushings can cause many mysterious squeaks, knocking noises and vibration complaints. Unfortunately, in their rush to sell ride control products like MacPherson struts, shock absorbers and springs, techs often forget to inspect and replace rubber suspension bushings, explains Import Specialist Contributor Gary Goms. More

Ford Tech Tip: Drivetrain - Rear Axle Seal(s) Leaking

Some Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles may exhibit oil separation from the internal lube found in the unitized cartridge seal. This oil separation appears to be, and is often misdiagnosed, as an axle lube leak. More

Alignment & Suspension Specs: 2006-2010 Honda Civic

Built on a high-rigidity unit-body platform, the 2006-current Civic has a MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. The 8th-generation Civic switched from a high mounted steering rack to a low mounted one and significantly increased caster. In the alignment bay, the 8th-generation Civic does not hold any surprises. But, it does require a sharp eye to spot potential problems... More