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    STAR connectors like this one are common on many vehicles as they serve as the hub for bus configurations like the one in this vehicle. From a diagnostic stand-point, they serve as a great place to eliminate circuits, one at a time, all in the same location. Much can be determined from the implementing this process in your diagnostic approach of many network faults.
    Brandon Steckler
    June 11, 2025
    A 2014 Jeep Cherokee was experiencing intermittent loss of communication. The only DTC fault codes that existed were for communication faults.
    Photo courtesy of Scott Brown
    Figure 2 - Baker Electric vehicle
    Scott Brown
    June 5, 2025
    Understanding what electrification means for vehicle service and your business.
    The cylinder head was removed, and the valve train was inspected. Cylinder No. 3 exhaust valve had excessive stem-to-guide clearance. This allowed the No. 3 exhaust valve to rock along the seat and created an intermittent sealing issue. The cylinder head requires reconditioning and/or replacement. These cylinder heads are a known issue so replacement is prudent.
    Brandon Steckler
    May 29, 2025
    A Jeep Wrangler was experiencing intermittent misfires, and our go-to testing was only showing what was functioning properly, instead of indicating what was wrong.
    Figure 1- All communication faults should begin with a vehicle-wide all-DTC scan. Often, scan results like this offer the common node(s) in which the non-faulted nodes are complaining about.
    Brandon Steckler
    May 21, 2025
    Being stuck in “PARK” doesn’t have to leave you stuck in a rut.
    Photo courtesy of Scott Brown
    Figure 3 - battery starting and charging testing
    Scott Brown
    May 14, 2025
    Your diagnostic process should start at the counter rather than in the bay.
    Fuel pressure was tested, and although specification was reached,a fuel volume test was conducted as well. After 10 seconds of elapsed time, the expected 500ml of fuel was not achieved. The system was only capable of supplying 350 ml.
    Brandon Steckler
    April 15, 2025
    This Mazda 3 was running rough after cold starts, and the only DTC stored was P0300, "Random misfire detected."
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    Brandon Steckler
    April 14, 2025
    In the world of diagnostics and driveability, a sound understanding of the component's functionality is an absolute must to maintain accuracy and efficiency. Let's consider the...
    Photos by author
    This warning on the dash of a 2016 Ram is alerting the customer to an issue with the Active-Level Four Corner Air Suspension system on the truck.
    Jeff Taylor
    April 14, 2025
    As vehicles evolve, so will suspension and steering systems. Essential steering angles and settings are as important as ever, and future advancements will further integrate with...
    Top 10 Diagnostic Products, Q1 2025
    Elli Carder
    April 1, 2025
    Check out the most viewed diagnostic products added to Vehicle Service Pros in Q1 of 2025.
    Photo courtesy of Scott Brown
    Figure 1 - Scan tool data
    Scott Brown
    March 5, 2025
    Using OBD-II, PIDs, DTCs, and other resources to diagnose today's engines.
    Figure 2- Suspect of a lean condition, additional hydrocarbon in the form of propane was used as an experiment for enrichment. The performance of the engine (via exhaust gas analysis) will be evaluated with the enrichment occurring. This will help determine the next step to take.
    Brandon Steckler
    Feb. 13, 2025
    A 2008 Mazda 3, with a 2.3L engine entered the shop with a complaint of rough-running and an MIL illuminated. The only DTC stored: random misfire detected.
    The rounded exhaust valve pocket and elevated intake manifold pressure come together like puzzle pieces inferring excessive valve overlap. Due to this valvetrain’s configuration, valve clearances are adjusted by way of selectable shims. The appropriate shim was chosen, and the clearances were brought back to within specification. The driveability symptom vanished, expected manifold vacuum was restored, and the fuel trim values nearly zeroed.
    Brandon Steckler
    Feb. 12, 2025
    A shop was facing a 2018 Ford Escape with a turbo-charged, four-cylinder engine. The vehicle suffered from a poor idle concern, intermittent cylinder No. 3 misfire at idle, but...
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    Elli Carder
    Dec. 30, 2024
    Check out the most viewed diagnostic products of Q4 in 2024.
    2024 Diagnostic Process
    Dec. 13, 2024
    A guide providing information on an array of diagnostic topics in the automotive industry.