...Variable oil pump failures A recent call to the Autobiz Technical Helpline confirms that variable oil pump failures are causing problems. Although this call was about an Opel Mokka 1.6 litre engine, this warning applies to many Makes and Models. To increase engine efficiency, the oil...
...Steve Rothwell Ford Fiesta - Misfire codes and running rough The reason for the low compression was easily visible after the head was removed The diagnosis on this 2011 1.6 litre Fiesta goes to prove that the basic mechanical tests are just as important as the more modern plug-i...
...Handy blanking pipe A short pipe is a handy blanking plug Like many mechanics, I save the old bleed screws from various units. This come in very handy when replacing brake pipes. The male threaded metal blanking plugs that normally come fitted to ABS units and the like, are useful wh...
...Transporter - Hot sticky brakes A failing servo unit was binding the brakes At first, the plumber who owned this VW Transporter was under the impression that he had engine problems and was concerned with the power loss. He then realised that a strange odour was being emitted from t...
...Kuga and Ranger communication issues Customers often put the technician under pressure to complete the diagnostics in an unreasonable time scale. Some will want to wait with the vehicle, others need their vehicle and cannot leave it. This can often lead to short cuts in our diagnostic pro...
...In automotive diagnostics, understanding electrical systems and components is crucial for identifying and resolving issues efficiently. Two common problems that technicians often encounter are high resistance and voltage drop. These issues can lead to a variety of symptoms in a vehicle, ra...
...New towbar causes a breakdown Bernard Clarke, Clarke's Garage Cavan Poorly routed towbar wiring had melted onto the exhaust, causing the breakdown A customer rang me while he was broken down on the motorway. The engine had cut out as he was driving, immediately after he had applie...
...Autobiz Technical Helpline Tim Stock Ford Fiesta won’t start over one small detail A recent technical call to the Autobiz Technical Helpline was regarding a non-start for a Ford Fiesta, fitted with an M1JH EcoBoost engine. The task of replacing a complete engine was given to the...
...Steve Rothweel Workshop Tales Tales from the workshop Ford Focus - Pungent diesel smell The body of the fuel injector was leaking diesel The smell of diesel is not on the top of my list of favourite scents. When diesel leaks onto a hot engine, and starts to evaporate, the resultin...
...Steve Rothwell Workshop Tales Tales from teh workshop Toyota Hiace - Suspension knocking The anti-roll bar link arms were replaced and the drive was much quieter One of the most annoying sounds is the constant knocking in the suspension. The complaint from the owner of this 2009 Toyot...