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In this Technical Focus Article, learn about the main components of Variable Valve Timing, the functions & benefits, VVT history, and common causes of VVT malfunction. We include a case study on a 2004 Honda Accord® EX 2.4L as well!
Discover how Snap-on's Fast-Track ID® can help you fix a flashing DPF light in your Mazda 6 2.0L diesel. Get in touch with us for expert support.
In this article, we'll highlight the variety of differences between diesel and gasoline engines, including how they ignite the air fuel mixture, and their efficiency and performance. Due to their differences, a diagnostic scanner that has the coverage to address the different systems can change the game. At Snap-on, our scanners have great coverage. Take a look at our Vauxhaul® and Ford® IQA analysis as well as highlighting of the classic Mercedes-Benz® Sprinter®.
Vehicles today need a secure gateway to protect them from getting hacked, yet allow for diagnostic tool access. Read more about how Snap-on® is on the leading edge with Security Link®
Depending on who you ask, some technicians and shop owners have differing perspectives on EVAP - is it a friend or a foe? We know it can be difficult to diagnose and also a leading cause for comebacks, but in this Technical Focus article we are going to dive into mistakes to avoid and how to make dealing with EVAP profitable for all.
Did you know that the purpose of the ignition system is to create a high voltage spark at the correct time and at the required intensity? Learn all about ignition systems - what to do and what not to do.
Take a look into Parking Assistance Systems (PAS) and how sensors, cameras, automated controls work in unison to make parking a vehicle a breeze. We'll go over the history of AFAS, the types of Parking Assist Systems (passive, active, and remote), and share how to diagnose and calibrate ADAS with a Snap-on® scan tool.
The epic quest for the perfect A/F ratio continues today. It’s true the industry is so much closer year after year to achieving that consistent stoichiometric ratio. If I had to put a name on where we are in this quest, I would say we have achieved maintaining a well-balanced ratio.
When working correctly in normal conditions, an ABS-equipped vehicle is nearly impossible to lock up.
If a fault develops in any part of the ABS, a warning light usually is illuminated on the vehicle instrument panel, and the ABS will be disabled until the repair is made. Let's take a deeper dive into the diagnosis and testing of a ABS fault code.
Many OEMs will display a trouble code when there is a problem with cam and crank correlation pointing toward a time chain elongation or belt stretch. Some OEMs offer specific CKP/CMP Signal tests. A great example of that is found in the Service Reset and Relearn section on select Snap-on® tools with Guided Component Tests as shown below for a Hyundai®.
With today’s technology HVAC work can be one of the most profitable types of work a shop or a tech can do. However, it can also be highly subject to a comeback if not serviced thoroughly, and a comeback is the biggest “profit killer” there is. The only thing worse than a comeback is they don’t ever come back!
If you think you're done with a car just because you fixed the issue, think again! Learn quickly about the importance of post repair workflow!
If you've ever wondered what the difference is between a reflash and a relearn, Keith Wray, our Snap-on® National Training Manager, will tell you the difference. Check it out.
Guided component tests provide a high level of efficiency, productivity and profitability. Those big three benefits happen because of the first word, Guided.
Let’s think about our two types of diagnostic tools – scanners and component testing. The scanner, which is like a nice compass, shows the technician which direction to look for the problem.
Stay ahead in automotive diagnostics where we show you how to evaluate a brushless fuel pump with a Snap-on® tool equipped with Guided Component Tests.
In this month's tech focus article, we'll take a look at the history of how the brushless fuel pump came about and how to use a Snap-on® tool with Guided Component Tests to evaluate a fuel pump.
Do you know what ADAS calibration is? There are three main methods of ADAS calibration: Static calibration, Dynamic Calibration, and Initialisation. Furthermore, there are ADAS calibration tools, such as a diagnostic scan tool and proper calibration target that need to be taken into account. Learn about OEM procedures for ADAS calibration and more in the latest tech focus article.
The answer would be something like this: a programming process that allows modules or electronic control units (ECUs) to communicate with the vehicle. Take a look at this article which involves using a Snap-on TRITON-D10 to perform a proxi alignment on a Fiat 500.
100 plus years ago cars did not have batteries. A bell or a “bulb horn” was used instead of an electric horn. Carbide headlamps were standard, and the engine was started with a crank. Carbide lamps are powered by the reaction of calcium carbide with water. This reaction produces acetylene gas which burns a clean, bright, white flame. In this month's Technical Focus article, we'll take a look at why automotive batteries need to be managed.
When thinking about resets throughout the history of automotive repair - the first thing that came to mind was the 'trip odometer' reset. Back in the day, it was used, to track how many miles had been driven on a trip. Many folks, also used it to track oil change intervals and check MPG (miles per gallon). The beauty of it was its simplicity to reset it. Just press, or turn the knob until everything turns back to zeros. Take a look at how we should do it today
The answer to that question varies greatly depending on whom you ask. It also varies, depending on what OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) the question might be referring. If the question was more specific such as, “Are timing chains still causing headaches on Nissan engines? Ford engines? GM engines? BMW? Audi?” The answer might be more specific. Take a look at this Technical Focus Article to find out!
The cylinder power balance test is a way of measuring the power contribution of each cylinder. That contribution should be relatively equal across all cylinders.
Learn how DPF regeneration works and why it's important. Discover different regeneration methods and how to perform a manual regeneration using a Snap-on Scan Tool
Learn about the five types of vehicle steering systems in detail: Worm and sector, recirculating ball, rack and pinion, hydraulic power steering, and electric power steering (EPS).
In this additional article to our Vehicle Steering Systems Tech Focus, we'll cover what the signs are of a faulty steering angle sensor, why the steering angle sensor is important, and what are the common procedures one may need to deal with a steering angle sensor.
TPMS is designed to alert the driver to low tyre pressure while the vehicle is traveling as well as when it is stationary. Low pressure is responsible for many accidents and breakdowns. The possibility is greatly increased when a tyre has low pressure. Incorrect pressure also has a negative effect on fuel economy, emissions and tyre wear.
This Technical Focus article explores the evolution of vehicle diagnostics and ponders how long it will be before every technician needs a diagnostic platform.
There are now many OEMs with BEV offerings, such as the Audi® e-tron®, BMW® i4®, Mustang Mach-E®, Hyundai® ioniq®, Kia® EV6®, MG5®, Mini®, Nissan® Leaf®, Polestar® 2, Tesla® and Volkswagen® 1D.3®
We live in a time when wrenches and hammers do not fix cars, but information and data do. These high-voltage vehicles can be dangerous, so make sure you get the training needed to stay safe when making repairs.
Actuators on modern vehicles can be difficult to diagnose, with many technicians resorting to replacement rather than diagnosing the component correctly. However by using a methodical fault finding process we can quickly and accurately diagnose these components. Here's how...
Uncover the crucial steps for testing a vacuum operated solenoid valve, essential for diagnosing and resolving turbocharger wastegate issues.
The increase in sensors and ECU’s built the foundation for the next generation of vehicles. All these new sensors make vehicle diagnosis and repair more complicated than ever. So here our Snap-on's tips for streamlining the diagnostic process
Explore the unique control of spark ignition systems in Renault engines with direct ignition coils and the concept of 'wasted spark' operation. Understand the primary and secondary winding series connection.
The development of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) have been a technological leap forward for the automotive industry. However, new challenges handling car repairs for workshops and body shops when ADAS systems are impacted are common.
This deep-dive case study walks through the steps taken when a 2016 Mercedes E350 was involved in a collision and repaired, only to find that a warning message indicating ‘lane keeping assist inoperative’ was displayed in the instrument cluster.
Learn about EGR valve fault codes and testing procedures to troubleshoot and diagnose issues. Get expert insights and tips here with our step-by-step guide.
A 2004 Opel Corsa with a Z10XE engine failed to start and there was no fuel pressure when tested at the fuel rail using a pressure gauge.
Read how a fault in a Ford Focus's diesel particulate filter sensor was diagnosed, repaired and verified using a diagnostic platform from Snap-on.
Find out how selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and AdBlue technology work in modern diesel vehicles. Learn how Snap-on's ZEUS+ diagnostic scan tool can help diagnose and solve SCR system issues.
Learn about mutual induction technology and its role in ignition systems. Explore the principles and components of mutual induction for better workshop performance.
Discover the inner workings of ignition systems and the importance of ignition coil function in creating high-voltage sparks for efficient engine operation. Let's learn more by using a Fiat Punto with an engine code 188.A4.000.
Take a look at this fix for a VW Golf Fix for Codes 01331, J386 & 01336. See the steps that located, diagnosed, and repaired a problem with a Volkswagen Golf's power windows, locks, and mirrors.
Controller Area Network (CAN) is a data transfer network designed to allow many nodes (modules) to communicate using a standard structure and format. This article will provide the technician with the necessary tools to successfully validate a CAN bus signal and help to identify faults where present.
Motor vehicles have become increasingly more complex over the last two decades to meet ever-tightening emissions regulations, increased fuel economy requirements as well as passenger comfort and safety. This added complexity means technicians are flooded with additional data when diagnosing vehicle faults.
Measurement of the volume and density of airflow entering an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) is critical to ensure the system is operating efficiently and within the emissions specifications.
The Clear View Flag Tracker is a feature that can help a technician to identify when a data parameter (PID) value goes out of specification. Here is how to use it:
This article is designed to provide a technician with a process for identifying a parasitic draw from a vehicle battery. The key to diagnosing any issues with parasitic draw, is to ensure the vehicle is shutdown. Take a look here to learn more...
Pressure transducers can be valuable in our Diagnostic fault-finding process in many different ways. We can use the pressure transducer to look at ‘Fluid pressures’ such as fuel, transmissions, hydraulics, and ‘Gas pressures’, such as compression, manifold, and exhaust backpressure. Let's take a deeper dive into how to use this tool to find your diagnosis.
A driver brought his vehicle – a 2008 Volkswagen Golf 1.9L – to be checked out as the front driver’s side door would not open. Take a look to see how this was solved using a Snap-on diagnostics lab scope.
Motor vehicles have become increasingly more complex over the last two decades to meet ever-tightening emissions regulations, increased fuel economy requirements as well as passenger comfort and safety. This added complexity means technicians are flooded with additional data when diagnosing vehicle faults.
This Toyota Prius had malfunction warning lights illuminated and two faults relating to the High Voltage System stored.Intermittently the vehicle would not enter “Ready Mode”. See how this Prius was put back into ‘Ready’ mode…
The purchase of a new vehicle (old or new) is always exciting. Sometimes though, when purchasing second-hand, you can take on some faults that you may not be aware of.
This customer had purchased himself a 2010 Ford Focus ST, and after a few weeks, experienced some symptoms...
Read on to learn how a Snap-on car diagnostic tool gives a simple way for you to monitor vehicle data when you are carrying out a road test as part of a repair.
This 2008 Vauxhall Vectra C had a bulb failure warning light illuminated on the instrument cluster and the brake light on the right-hand side of the vehicle appeared to be lighting at full brilliance at all times.
A symbol appears in both zeros of the one hundred. The first zero has a hexagonal centre to symbolise a socket, this is a link to the origins of the company and the “Game Changer” that is the interchangeable socket.
Take a look at our 10 minute 48 Volt Electrical System Class here!
Electronic throttle control has now become a standard fitment in all spark ignition engines. This has allowed for advances in technology such as cruise control, traction control, limited operating strategy (limp home mode) and engine speed limiter.
Take the challenges out of diagnosing modern air/fuel ratio sensors by using this handy process in Snap-on scan tools with up-to-date diagnostic software.
Read on to find out how this simple procedure within Snap-on's diagnostic platforms is a great starting point for your diagnostic process.
See what information a technician was able to gather via Intelligent Diagnostics from Snap-on in order to get to the bottom of some persistent warning lights.
A 2008 Audi A6 2.0L PD compression ignition engine with engine code BRD had an intermittent no-start condition when the engine was up to operating temperature.
Find out how Snap-on diagnostic platforms helped overcome the winter weather when dealing with an Audi TT that kept stalling in the rain.
Local Interconnection (LIN) Bus is a low-speed cost-effective alternative to CAN bus. In this article, we introduce how LIN bus communication works.
FlexRay is similar to CAN Bus as the data is transmitted over two twisted wires, which act to reduce the effects of external interference on the differential voltage between both wires. Data transfer speeds can be up to 10 times faster than CAN bus, operating at speeds up to 1 Mbits per second.
ADAS systems come in many forms, with everything from blind spot warnings to night vision technologies, and because of the vital job these systems do, it's important to ensure that they are properly calibrated and functioning to prevent any malfunction of the system.
Learn how the car diagnostic tool software from Snap-on can help you quickly and easily reset and re-calibrate sensors when completing a vehicle repair.
See how a Snap-on car diagnostic tool can help you diagnose communication problems on a vehicle in a clear and straightforward fashion.
A 2008 BMW E90 with a 2.0L spark ignition engine has been suffering from occasional rough running when starting and the engine management light is illuminating.
See how working on ADAS systems is made easier with the innovative and unique combination of garage equipment and vehicle diagnostics from Snap-on.
Take a look at some important steps you need to know when it comes to diagnosing car air conditioning issues, with the help of a Snap-on diagnostic expert.
Learn about a quick and easy way to test a vehicle's communication network and get to the bottom of no-communication problems efficiently.
A 2005 Fiat Multipla had been to an independent repairer because the malfunction indicator lamp was on and it was running on limp mode.
Make your life easier by using a Snap-on lab scope and scan tool to check and verify the correctness of vehicle scan data - on the same screen at the same time.
A certain amount of caution is necessary when attempting to start vehicles which have a discharged battery.
Read on to see how you can check data and test that the electronic throttle control system is performing normally – and how you can tell if there is an issue.
This article describes to technicians how a relatively simple fault became slightly more complicated to rectify when a component with different operating parameters was fitted. Damien Coleman will guide you through how to resolve the issue quickly and effectively by further investigation and testing, using a TRITON-D8 and a multimeter from Snap-on.
Learn about some short but important steps you need to follow when it comes to ensuring that replaced modules are fully recognised by a vehicle.
Modern vehicles can sometimes appear to be complex but troubleshooting most problems can be reduced down to applying simple logic to a specific circuit.
Although voltage testing is valid for circuit and wiring test, monitoring a current flow trace is the most accurate way of testing a component.
Prior to starting a repair, you should research all relevant data relating to the task. An example of this is investigating which special functions and procedures need to be executed after a repair is carried out.
With the implementation of Euro VI emissions standards, manufacturers are fitting additional hardware such as Pressure Sensing Glow-plugs (PSG) to monitor in cylinder pressure to accurately diagnose combustion anomalies.
You should rely on your knowledge of fundamental electrical principles when fault-finding an electronic sub-system.
A 2011 Peugeot 207 with a 1.4l common rail diesel engine wouldn't start. There was no voltage at terminal 50 of the starter motor when the ignition was turned.
Help make diagnosing a misfiring Ford a lot more straightforward with the aid of a quick and simple test available in Snap-on scan tools.
Find out about a quick and easy way to help diagnose fuel pump issues by using your Snap-on lab scope and diagnostic software to generate readings for analysis.
The rise in demand for ‘high-tech’ vehicles has challenged engineers to rethink and create more sophisticated internal systems which promote efficiency. The humble motor is a great example of this with many vehicle manufacturers now using brushless direct current (DC) motors in automotive applications. The brushless motor has many advantages when compared to conventional ‘brushed motors’ but whilst more efficient, the commutation control of the brushless motor is more complex. Take a look at the article to learn more.
The fundamental reason for the engine control module to implement fuel trim control is to meet the requirements of the exhaust gas after-treatment system.
Find out how the exclusive SureTrack system from Snap-on helped provide answers when a Mini with an engine fault arrived at a workshop.
Learn from industry experts at Snap-on about how having a solid diagnostic routine will help you be more efficient each time you face a troublesome vehicle.
Learn some important information and safety tips to be aware of when you are working on the different types of batteries used by hybrid vehicles.
Find out how a simple test with a Snap-on lab scope can help you diagnose ignition problems on a vehicle.
Having a hard time determining if an ignition coil is faulty? A quick test on your Snap-on diagnostic tool lets you compare the voltage and current of a coil.
Sensor construction and measuring waveforms is a useful place to start when getting to grips with complex brake system faults. Take a look at the article to learn more.
Discover a new technique included in the latest Snap-on diagnostic software upgrade designed to make your life easier when it comes to coding vehicle headlamps.
Many modern systems, such as common rail diesel injection, can appear to be so complex that they seem to operate by magic.
The polarity of a motor is reversible, allowing for accurate control of the system. One way to control the polarity is by designing an “H-drive” bridge circuit.
Get the information you need in order to be able to check and test a vehicle's timing quickly and easily using Snap-on scan tools and diagnostic software.
Find out how Intelligent Diagnostics from Snap-on helped get to the bottom of a Peugeot 208 with ongoing issues with overheating in this exclusive case study.
Did you know that fuel injectors on Direct Injection vehicles work differently than a standard fuel injector? Read our new Technical Focus article to learn more.
Take advice from industry experts at Snap-on and work smarter from connection to completion – because time means money and we’d all like more of both.
See how a Snap-on lab scope and diagnostic software can help you check voltage and amperage to guide you to a diagnosis when working on a faulty fuel injector.
Sometimes a vehicle will suffer from driveability issues and fault codes relating to valve timing. Such conditions can be difficult to diagnose without the correct equipment.
The purpose of variable valve timing (VVT) is to help increase the engine’s volumetric efficiency and limit the exhaust gasses produced by the vehicle. By altering when the valves open and close you can optimize the performance of the engine.
Not sure how to do a particular test with your lab scope? Did you know there are built-in training classes in a Snap-on lab scope? This article tells you more.
See what was happening on the vehicle you're working on before and after the diagnostic trouble code was set thanks to a handy feature on Snap-on scan tools.
A 2002 Toyota Yaris had been out of use for several months and required assistance to start the engine when it was to be driven again.
This article describes to technicians how a relatively simple fault became slightly more complicated to rectify when a component with different operating parameters was fitted. Damien Coleman will guide you through how to resolve the issue quickly and effectively by further investigation and testing, using a Snap-on diagnostic tool.
Learn how to use your Snap-on car diagnostic tool to clear a service light on a VW or Audi vehicle and reset the service schedule.
Read on to improve your knowledge of nitrogen oxides from diesel emissions and how to deal with them.