ORPORATI C NG IN
+
Taking a closer look How Ontario reinvented its inspection
INSIDE: DECEMBER 2015 Q Five key trends facing the aftermarket Q Making the most of ‘opportunity season’ Q Variable displacement oil pumps
Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40063170 make their holiday dreams come true
Talk to your Snap-on® Franchisee or order online at snapon.com
Snap-on is a trademark, registered in the United States and other countries, of Snap-on Incorporated. All rights reserved. ©Snap-on Incorporated 2015. DECEMBER 2015 | VOL. 1 NO. 10 CANADIAN AUTO REPAIR & SERVICE MAGAZINE
FEATURES 18 Taking a closer look Ontario’s new inspection process will involve checking even more components, taking careful measurements, and going 20 on a mandatory road test. COLUMNS 20 Variable displacement 5 oil pumps Service Notes They’re intended to improve fuel Now’s a good time to review your economy… but getting the PCM involved business and develop an updated master could mean more trouble codes. plan for 2016. 14 16 Collective Wisdom Management consultant Alan Beech says at DEPARTMENTS forward-thinking shops, busy season gives On the Web ...... 6 way to ‘opportunity season.’ 18 Letters ...... 9 30 In the News ...... 11 The Car Side By the Numbers ...... 14 Beanie contemplates the mixed messages Baywatch ...... 25 he’s getting… from the vehicle he’s working on, and from his girlfriend! Advertiser Index ...... 29
Our new international calling card.
by www.bluestreak.ca
December 2015 3
SERVICE NOTES ProMax... leading in durability and great performance.
What’s your master plan for 2016? Now’s a good time to take a fresh look at what you’re doing. Severe Duty Metallic By Allan Janssen Brake Pads If you’re anything like me, you’re already 30,000-foot view of your business. From thinking a lot about 2016. this height you can more easily tell the The end of the year is a good time to difference between highways and take stock of how things have been country roads. You can pick out the going in your business, how they can short cuts. You can identify the dead- be improved, what you can do differ- ends. And you can see the best detours ently, and what your goals should be around new obstacles. for next year. No doubt there are some pretty big All this week I’ve had a calendar in obstacles out there! Ceramic Plus Brake Pads front of me as I tried to map out my The automotive repair and mainte- next 12 months. I know circumstances nance business is in the middle of a will change. Life has a way of throwing major transition… and not for the first curve balls. Probably before the end of time. The introduction of vehicle elec- February I’ll have to rip up my master tronics caused us to reinvent our plan and start all over again. services. The end of the break-down
That’s not really a problem though. model brought a new way of looking Ceramic Brake Pads My view of master plans is a lot like my at maintenance. Now, social media is view of budgets and New Year’s resolu- altering the way we connect with tions. Making them is almost as consumers. Longer-lasting cars and important as following through on the evolving vehicle mix is changing them. what rolls into our shops. And accel- There’s tremendous benefit in taking erated technology is putting crazy new a 30,000-foot view of things. It allows demands on technicians. you to take note of the changing terrain, Without doubt we’re going to need Semi Metallic Brake Pads the landmarks, and all the obstacles training – both technical and manage- that stand between you and your goal. ment – to navigate the road ahead. Actually, defining your goal is an We’re going to need data. We’re going excellent first step. You have to under- to need good partners and role models. stand what it is that you’re trying to And we’re going to need some robust accomplish in the long run. Believe it industry resources. or not, that’s not always clear. Or it In many ways, we’re all just learning Brake Shoes changes. Sometimes you lose sight of as we go. At ground level, that can be it. You become so focused on the little very challenging. Every path looks like things that the grand design is a viable option. You can easily find completely lost. yourself in a bog because you missed Precision Brand When I catch myself mired in a turn in the road. Precision Engineering mindless tasks, I know it’s time to So take some time this holiday Precision Performance remember my ultimate objective. A season to recalibrate your business. note on our fridge here at work reminds Get some perspective and tackle 2016 everyone, “There’s no point in doing with a clear plan. well that which you shouldn’t be doing at all.” You can reach me at 416-614-5814 or ® So maybe now’s the time to take a [email protected]. www.autopartsdepot.ca
December 2015 5 Visit us on the WEB!
CANADIAN AUTO REPAIR & SERVICE MAGAZINE
EDITOR | Allan Janssen (416) 614-5814 [email protected] CONTRIBUTORS | Alan Beech, Murray Voth, Camille Casse, Jeff Taylor, Rick Cogbill, John Fraser ART DIRECTOR | Tim Norton (416) 614-5810 [email protected] Canada’s most trusted MANAGING DIRECTOR, AUTO DIV. portal for fast-breaking & NATIONAL SALES | Kathryn Swan (416) 510-5221 [email protected] aftermarket news NATIONAL SALES | Andrew Ross just got better! (416) 510-6763 [email protected] QUEBEC & EASTERN CANADA SALES DIRECTOR | Denis Arsenault (514) 947-7228 [email protected] ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER, MORE MORE MORE PRINT/DIGITAL | Kimberly Collins news features products (416) 510-6779 [email protected] PRINT PRODUCTION MANAGER | Phyllis Wright (416) 510-6786 [email protected] www.AutoServiceWorld.com/CARS CIRCULATION MANAGER | Lilianna Kantor (416) 614-5815 [email protected] Check out the all-new CARS magazine channel on the AutoServiceWorld.com aftermarket portal. Along with sister titles Jobber News and L’automobile, our CARS magazine is published monthly except for January and July by Newcom Business Media Inc., 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B newly designed web offering brings you the most comprehensive digital 2S9. The magazine serves the Canadian automotive repair and service industry. Subscriptions are free to those who meet the criteria. For package in Canada’s automotive aftermarket. With both a global landing page others: single copy price: $7.00 plus tax; one-year subscription in Canada: $53.95 plus applicable tax; 2-year subscription in Canada: and channel specific content for jobbers and WDs, service providers, and other $84.95 plus applicable tax; one-year subscription in U.S: US$95.95; single copy price: US$10.00; one-year subscription in all other countries: aftermarket professionals, autoserviceworld.com is a “must go to” resource. US$97.95. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without prior written consent of the publisher. The advertiser agrees to protect the publisher against legal action based upon libelous or Add us to your favorites and visit often! inaccurate statements, unauthorized use of photographs, or other material in connection with advertisements placed in CARS. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising which in his
RPORAT opinion is misleading, scatological, or in poor taste. Postmaster: send RPORATI CO IN O N G C G IN IN PORA How do you find customers? OR TIN NC G + ...and are they finding you I + + The coming address changes and undeliverable Canadian addresses to Circulation in the digital age boom forTPMST sales and service Dept., CARS, 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9. Going DIGITAL INSIDE: Q Rewriting your business model New ways to track workflow Q Taking diagnostics on the road and improve communication Q Troubleshooting rain sensors
SEPTEMBER 2015 INSIDE: NOVEMBER 2015 i Counting Canada’s service bays i It’s Your Turn: Why I love this trade i Decoding modern fuel trim issues
Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40069240 Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40063170 VP, EDITORIAL | Rolf Lockwood Check out our On the go? GENERAL MANAGER | Joe Glionna online Calendar and PRESIDENT / PUBLISHER | Jim Glionna Enjoy our digital edition find out what’s going on! and review our previous issues. CORPORATE OFFICES HEAD OFFICE 451 Attwell Dr., Toronto ON M9W 5C4 Telephone: 416-614-2200 Facsimile: 416-614-8861 REGIONAL OFFICE Sign up for our twice weekly 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9 Telephone: 416-442-5600 Participate in our E-newsletter to ensure you Facsimile: 416-510-5169 Weekly Reader Poll are up-to-date on industry news. We’ll report back on the current Delivered to you every Tuesday Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulations Newcom Media – Publications at 80 Valleybrook issues everyone’s talking about. and Thursday Customer Number: 4006214 Publication Mail Agreement #40063170 Print edition ISSN 2368-9129 On-line edition ISSN 2368-9137 Follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook :HDFNQRZOHGJHWKHÀQDQFLDOVXSSRUWRIWKH *RYHUQPHQWRI&DQDGDWKURXJKWKH&DQDGD3HULRGLFDO )XQGRIWKH'HSDUWPHQWRI&DQDGLDQ+HULWDJH
CANADIAN AUTO REPAIR & SERVICE MAGAZINE
6 CARS Choose Ford Parts. They fit your Ford better than the others, allowing you and your team to work more efficiently. Plus, we stand behind our parts with a 2-year, unlimited kilometre warranty* that includes up to $150 in labour. Not only are Ford Parts a great investment for you, your customers will benefit from long-term performance. And that’s what we call a FORD PARTS UP TO * winning combination. WARRANTY $150 DISTANCE INCLUDES LABOUR IN LABOUR COVERAGE FOR QUALIFIED FLEETS / INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOPS*
PARTS THAT WORK FOR YOU. FORD.CA
*24 months/unlimited km limited warranty on most Genuine Ford/Motorcraft® Parts and Ford Genuine Accessories (purchased from Ford or Ford Lincoln dealers or Ford dealer wholesale customers) for cars and light trucks that are found to be defective in material or workmanship. Parts, labour, and towing covered for ‘dealer-installed’ parts/accessories; parts only are covered for ‘over the counter’ retail parts/accessories; parts and labour (up to a maximum of $150) covered for wholesale and fleet parts/accessories. Part and/or accessory failure due to: abuse, misuse, neglect, alteration, accident, racing; improper lubrication, repair, or installation; use in applications for which they were either not designed, or functionally intended, or not approved by Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited; cleaning, adjustment or replacement as a part of normal maintenance; or failures caused by non-Ford parts, are not covered under this warranty. Coverage varies between over-the-counter and dealer-installed parts. See your local Ford Store for complete coverage details and limitations. ©2015 Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. All rights reserved. You wear your name patch like a badge of honour. You are equally fluent in Domestic and Foreign Nameplate.
You do the job right the first time, or you don’t do it.
You demand parts that live up to the highest standards. Yours.
Elite® aftermarket parts from Continental have the toughest audience we can think of — you. Elite delivers proven results with no exception, and that includes coverage on all makes and models. From our revolutionary Poly-V® Belt with Quiet Channel Technology to timing belts and hoses off ering a perfect OE match, Elite is a true standout in aftermarket performance. Just like you.
• Poly-V® Belts • Tensioners • Belt Kits • Hose • Accessories Contact us at 1-888-275-4397 www.contitech.ca LETTERS
Harsh measures Tie vehicle inspections to Being tough may cost needed to keep junk insurance renewals customers… but that’s OK off the road As a tech and shop owner, I try to I know we’re often accused of “over I totally agree with Rick McMullan, educate people about the condition of inspecting” or “padding the bill” when the shop owner who is committed their cars and the maintenance that we do a thorough professional inspec- to getting dangerous vehicles of the they require. Too often the repair is ‘not tion, but we’ve made it a policy to road (“The Price of Safety,” October convenient’ for them or it isn’t ‘in the inform the owners of blatantly unsafe 2015). As an automotive repair shop budget.’ After a customer wrote off their vehicles that they will not be allowed owner, I also advise customers of car driving on bald tires that they were to take their vehicles back on the road their vehicles’ condition. Some sure would be OK, I wrote a letter to until they’re safe. That doesn’t neces- people are happy to know, some are Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation, sarily mean they have to do the work not. advocating a yearly inspection. They at our shop (although, let’s face it, I’d If a car is unsafe, we call the RCMP informed me that car owners are like them to). If the work is not done and have it placed with a ‘Box 1 Tow obligated to maintain their vehicles in here it must be towed – not driven – Only’ until repaired. It seems like such a safe condition, so an annual inspection from our premises, at their expense. a harsh thing to have to do, but some would not be required. This may seem harsh… and we’ve people have the “It won’t happen to Since our industry does not carry suffi- lost customers over this policy. But I me” syndrome and feel they’re fine to cient weight to have the law changed, I rest easier knowing that at least these keep on driving it. believe we should lobby the insurance vehicles will not be on the same roads I always think to myself, will this companies to institute a safety inspection as our children. harm someone else on the road? If it for policy renewal. If vehicle accidents Doug Jordan has the potential to do that, it must be could be reduced by 5-10% through better Canadian Tire repaired or replaced. Human life is far maintenance, think of the savings to the greater than anything else. insurance companies, police depart- Annual safety inspections Clara Hooper ments, and hospitals! will identify dangerous Bunys n Bugs Ian Carmichael vehicles Chilliwack, B.C. Carmichael’s Auto, Kingston, Ont. I’ve been an advocate of annual safeties for years now, even contacting local MPs to voice my concerns on EYESPY numerous occasions. I’m not sure what it will take to convince govern- ment that this is a serious issue, but Transmission something has to be done. tied-down We emphasize safety to our customers, routinely giving them lists The owner of this Trailblazer came of issues that require attention. We’ll in to Mufflerman in St. Thomas, even show them the problems while Ont. for an alignment, but when the vehicle is on a hoist to make them technician Derek Marker took a aware of the problems. look under the vehicle, he found We find that, for the most part, our a transmission mount that was customers appreciate being told what’s no longer bolted in. It had been wrong with their cars, and they usually strapped down with a piece of wood have us repair the issues. But there are wedged to keep it in position. The the other customers that blatantly vehicle had been converted from don’t care, saying things like, “Oh, it’s all-wheel-drive to rear-wheel-drive, been like that for a year!” but the transmission cross-members People seem to come up with the could no longer reach the mounting money to have their cars pass the location. This solution, says Marker, E-test, so I’m sure people would find was “a very unsafe idea.” the money to make sure their cars pass Have an interesting picture to an annual safety too. share? Send a high-resolution Peter Kasala image to [email protected] Cormier Auto Repair (Napa Autopro) Trenton, Ont.
December 2015 9 ANDREW RANGER AND THE
ALL-NEW MOPAR ® DODGE CHALLENGER!
Mopar #27 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T
Andrew Ranger, 2-Time NCATS Champion
When you put 2-time NCATS Champion Andrew Ranger together with the all-new #27 Mopar®
Challenger, you’ve got a winning team. When you put Authentic Mopar® Parts and Accessories on ®
your Chrysler, Dodge, FIAT , Jeep® , or Ram vehicle, you’re a winner too. Insist on Mopar quality. Demand nothing less!
For more information on Ranger’s #27 Dodge Challenger R/T, visit the MotorSports section at Mopar.ca.
Service & Repair Remanufactured Collision Accessories & Performance
19788 ©2015 FCA Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Mopar are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC. FIAT is a registered trademark of Fiat Group Marketing & Corporate Communication S.p.A., used under license by FCA US LLC. NEWS
Auto service apprentices slump
Statistics Canada figures Registered Apprenticeships in Canada - All trades show significant drop in 2013, 480,000 down about 5% from 2010. 460,000 440,000 By Allan Janssen 420,000 400,000
380,000 The number of apprentices enrolled in 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 automotive service programs in 2013 Source: Statistics Canada was down about 5% from a recent high- water mark set in 2010, Statistics Automotive Service Apprenticeships in Canada Canada figures show. 39,000 38,000 The recently released data from all 37,000 36,000 provinces and territories except for 35,000 34,000 Quebec shows there were 43,683 auto- 33,000 motive service apprentices in 2013, 32,000 31,000 down from 45,870 in 2010. (Quebec 30,000 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 submitted apprenticeship numbers for Source: Statistics Canada other trades, but changed its reporting process for automotive apprenticeship system as it pertained apprenticeships.) to automotive service technicians. The drop in automotive service Apprentices no longer had to complete apprentices is in stark contrast to the mandatory work-based training hours total number of apprentices in the at each program level before country, which stood at 469,680 in 2013, progressing to the next level of up more than 9% from 2010’s total of technical training. 430,452. Even without Quebec reporting, Red Seal trades accounted for some automotive service was the fourth 362,997 registrations in 2013. largest apprenticeship trade, according At least you’ll In all trades, including automotive to Statistics Canada. It followed elec- service, the number of registrations for tricians (71,646 apprentices), carpen- be able to see female apprentices has climbed steadily ters (49,620), and plumbers, pipefitters since 2009. In automotive service, 1,971 and steamfitters (48,948). Together the deer in women were enrolled as apprentices these four trade groups accounted for in 2013, up about 10% from 1,794 in about half of all male apprentices. the headlights. 2010. Just over 65,000 certificates were In all trades, women make up 14.1% awarded in 2013. The majority of these of the apprenticeship population – certificates (72.2%) were issued to some 66,111 in 2013. apprentices, with the balance being Well over half of the automotive awarded to trade qualifiers who chal- service apprentices (26,139) were in lenged the exam. their 20s, with another 4,803 still in Almost 23,000 of the certificates their teens. issued in 2013 had the Red Seal Predictably, the bulk of automotive endorsement. Of the 2,586 automotive service registrants were in Ontario, service certificates issued, 1,941 of with 24,537 apprentices. Alberta them were with the Red Seal added 7,257 to the total, and British endorsement. Columbia brought in another 6,534. Data tables showing further The British Columbia stats showed a breakdown of the results can be found WagnerLighting.com notable rise in 2013 when changes on the Statistics Canada website or go ©2015 Federal-Mogul Motorparts Corporation. All trademarks shown are owned by Federal-Mogul Corporation, or one or more of were made to the provincial to http://ow.ly/UOI7D. its subsidiaries, in one or more countries. All rights reserved.
December 2015 11 NEWS
not pose a threat to the aftermarket. “Think of it as your business pipeline,” he said. “Any time you’re adding vehicles to the fleet, that’s more opportunities for repair going forward. So it’s a great trend.” The forecast peak in new-car sales is expected to be 2017, with about 18.2 million units sold. It is evidence, he said, that the U.S. recovery is increasingly driven by “wants” rather than “needs.” Compact utility vehicles (CUV) are expected to dominate growth in the U.S. over the next few years. Similarly, consumers are expected to show strong AAPEX trade show celebrates preference for compact vehicles and imports. strong aftermarket growth As the average age of the U.S. fleet increases – it now stands at 11.5 years With vehicle sales up and more miles being driven, continued – independent automotive repair shops growth is predicted for next year. may start seeing much older cars than they’re used to, he said. Industry watchers at an upbeat AAPEX “I think we have to look at the sweet trade show in Las Vegas in November spot differently. We’ve been defining it called for continued automotive after- the same way for 20 or 30 years,” he market growth in 2016. said. “I think we’ll see more of our Both David Portalatin of NPD Group repairs from older vehicles. In my view, and Mark Seng of IHS Automotive noted this trend is a great one for the inde- strong aftermarket growth in 2015, and pendent aftermarket.” predicted more of the same next year. He said rapid evolution in global Portalatin started out his annual automotive production poses some “Aftermarket Outlook” presentation by interesting challenges to the after- asking attendees how many had a market. At the very least, it will require better year in 2015 than in 2014. Mark Seng, of IHS Automotive, says there a dedication to training and research “Yeah. How ’bout that?” he said. are plenty of new opportunities for the to stay on top of technological trends. “Wasn’t that nice for a change? 2015 automotive aftermarket. “We have to adapt to a whole new turned out to be pretty darn good.” environment. It gives us a chance to do He said the combination of increased Trends” by saying, “There are some what we do best in the aftermarket, miles driven and strong retail price really great trends for the automotive and that’s adapt and innovate and increases in a wide assortment of auto- aftermarket.” come up with new ways to serve this motive products have put 2015 on track The five trends he identified were 1) new generation of vehicles,” he said. for 4.4% growth over 2014. light vehicle sales nearing record levels The trends bring opportunities as The forecast for 2016 is a 2.7% in the U.S.; 2) continuing vehicle mix well as challenges. increase. shifts as consumer preferences change; “The key is understanding what’s Looking at a number of market 3) an evolving aftermarket repair coming, knowing that it is coming and trends, he told the room of mostly “sweet spot” as average vehicle age getting ready to react to it,” he said. “If jobbers, “I think there are some inter- continues to grow; 4) growing OEM you do that you’re going to be successful esting things going on that are defi- reliance on global “mega-platforms”; going forward.” nitely going to create opportunity for and 5) accelerating vehicle complexity The annual Automotive Aftermarket you guys to grow your business in 2016.” as we move ever closer to autonomous Parts Expo (AAPEX) show and the Seng, the global aftermarket practice vehicles on the road. related Specialty Equipment leader for IHS Automotive (formerly Seng said strong light vehicle sales Manufacturers Association (SEMA) Polk) agreed with that assessment, – expected to break 17 million units this show drew well over 100,000 automotive starting his presentation on “Five Key year for the first time in 10 years – do professionals from all over the world.
12 CARS Uncover the truth.
truth.identifix.com
MYTH: ;OLJVTWL[P[PVUKLSP]LYZYV\[PULZLY]PJLPUMVYTH[PVUMHZ[LY[OHU0KLU[PÄ_
TRUTH: The “QUICK-HITS” section in Direct-Hit® was designed to provide the information you need L]LY`KH`MHZ[LY[OHUHU`V[OLYZ`Z[LT@V\NL[IYHRLZWLJZ[VYX\LZWLJZHUKÅ\PKZJHWHJP[PLZ PUHZPUNSLJSPJR@V\HSZVNL[X\PJRHJJLZZ[V46;69HUK6,4ZWLJPÄJH[PVUZPUHKKP[PVU[V V\YZ[H[LHWWYV]LK,TPZZPVUZ*VU[YVS.\PKLPMULLKLKZV`V\JHUZH]LTVYL[PTLVUYV\[PUL ZLY]PJLJVTWHYLK[VHU`V[OLYZ`Z[LT
You deserve the truth. ONLY IDENTIFIX GIVES YOU Call 1.800.745.9649 ONE-CLICK ACCESS TO: to take the Fix Faster Brake specs Challenge today. And find out why over 50,000 Torque specs shops choose Identifix Fluids/capacities to boost productivity and drive revenue.
The other guys give you service information, too. We just give you time to do more of it. Who would you want in your shop? By the NUMBERS Stats that put the Canadian automotive aftermarket into perspective.
Percentage of jobs held 36.8% in Canada by Millennials (people born between 1980 and 2000), now the dominant demographic in the Canadian workforce. Generation X (born 1969 -1979) holds 33.9% of the jobs, and Boomers (1946-1964) hold 31.1%. Statistics Canada, Canadian Business magazine Percentage of The average owners of 1-3 year amount of work 34% old vehicles who dealerships bill have a pre-paid (or complimentary) $9,600 per month as a maintenance package in 2015. Last direct result of processing vehicle recalls. Though year, the number was just 25%. they can’t charge for the actual recall work itself, J.D. Power & Associates dealerships in Canada, the U.S., and Australia see an average of 84 recall appointments monthly, and other work is found during those appointments. 743,720 Xtime, a subsidiary of Cox Automotive Number of electric cars in the world as of Percentage of January 2015. % North American The global electric car parc in 2009 12.6 light vehicles was just 13,430. manufactured in Canada during Q3 National Geographic, the Climate Issue, % November 2015 2015. The U.S. manufactures 67.9%, 47 and Mexico has overtaken Canada By 2020, the global percentage with 19.5% percent. of new vehicles expected to DesRosiers Automotive Consultants (DAC) and Wards come factory-equipped with 21% turbochargers. In North America Percentage of penetration of the technology is Canadians who expected to grow from its current 23 have work done percent to roughly 39 percent. at both independent auto repair Honeywell’s 2015 Global Turbo Forecast shops and dealerships. The amount of money spent by these “channel The percentage of income that agnostics” is about $1.5 billion a the average American household year. spends on auto repairs for its 1.9 J.D. Power 2015 Customer Service Index 1.5% Long-Term study vehicles. In 2004, that was about $817, or $408 per vehicle. That does not include the 3.7 percent spent on gas and motor oil ($1,007 per car). —How Stuff Works, with stats from U.S. Bureau of Labor 56% Percentage of 48 The monthly cost of owning recommended $437. a vehicle – the third-largest repair and household expense for Canadians after housing and service work that food. That amount ($5,250 per year) covers vehicle typically goes payments, insurance, gas, and maintenance. unsold. —The Toronto Star —AutoVitals
14 CARS Follow us on Total Canada
YOUR ENGINE CAN ENDURE MORE TOTAL Canada produces and commercialize high performance lubricants for the entire automotive sector. TOTAL offers innovative products that meet the requirements of the largest car manufacturers. For more information, consult our website at www.total-canada.ca.
Keep your engine younger for longer COLLECTIVE WISDOM
Here comes ‘opportunity season’ If you’ve got the busy seasons blues, take heart. We’re entering the time of year when all your hard work pays off. By Alan Beech
the crazy months of spring. October, November, and December make up the pre-winter rush. It’s your respon- sibility during the slow times to fully 'HDU$ODQ prepare for the chaos that comes in %XV\VHDVRQLVÀQDOO\DOPRVWRYHUDQG,KDYHPL[HGHPRWLRQV,ZDVQ·W those months. H[DFWO\UHDG\IRUWKHUXVKVR,ZDVSOD\LQJFDWFKXSWKHZKROHWLPH,GRQ·W Let’s first take a look at what makes IHHO,ZDVDEOHWRIXOO\FDSLWDOL]HRQHYHU\FDUWKDWFDPHWKURXJKWKHED\V shops busy. In Canada, it starts with DQGQRZ,·PZRUULHGDERXWKRZP\EXVLQHVVLVJRLQJWRGRLQWKHXSFRPLQJ winter tires. About 78% of people get VORZVHDVRQ+RZFDQ,PD[LPL]HRQP\QH[WEXV\VHDVRQ" their mechanical work done where they ³'DQLHO purchase winter tires. If you’re not actively selling winter tires, or able to service the mechanical needs of your tire-buying customers, you’re leaving 'HDU'DQLHO If you’ve read my previous article money on the table. you’ll know I am a stickler for strict You need to ramp up your tire game Well, first of all, congratulations on processes – whether it’s at the front so you can meet all of your customers’ making it through one of the most counter process, in the bays, or in tire needs. That starts with tire quoting. hectic times of the year! I know it’s not preparation of a busy season. You need I always recommend having online tire easy. And now that things have settled a structured process… and that has to quoting capabilities right on your down, it’s time to look back and reflect begin in your slow season. website. This will save time quoting on where the whole process could be Almost every shop experiences the over the phone as well as help with your sharpened up for the upcoming busy cyclical patterns of busy and slow online advertising. Beyond that, you season. seasons. March, April, and May are need to ensure that your tire-quoting
16 CARS work, shops need to implement a basic technicians and service advisors is courtesy inspection on all cars that extremely important for your shop to come into the shop. This boosts both remain relevant and ahead of the overall customer satisfaction as well competition. as shop revenue. Although this inspec- Take this time to reflect back on your tion does take extra time when space busy season, try to pin-point where you in the bays is so highly prioritized, it fell behind. If you’d had another service is without a doubt one of the most advisor working the counter, would profitable decisions a shop can make. you have been better able to stay ahead If you add an inspection to your of the rush? Now’s the time to take on service process, however, make sure a new advisor. The slow season is ideal you inform your customers about it. for training a new hire. It’s extremely important that they know In terms of staffing, I always an inspection is coming so there’s no recommend planning for the busier confusion or surprise when the results times ahead. If you need to slim down are revealed. your staff, start with your light service The key to having a profitable staff (oil and tire change). This will off-season is to perform routine inspec- be a position that will be relatively tions during the busy season. That’s easy to fill as opposed to a certified right. As busy as you are, you’ve got to technician. A quality technician is find the time for inspections. This, extremely difficult to find these days along with consistently obtaining and should not be someone you let proper CRM data, can almost always go lightly. matrix is updated and all of your guarantee consistent profit margin There are other items that must be advisors understand how to quote tires during the slow time of year. looked into in preparation for the busy accurately. CRM stands for customer relation- season. I have created my own busy Another important aspect of ship management, and it includes all season checklist which is available on preparing for tire season is tire storage. of a customer’s basic contact informa- my site at www.beechconsulting.ca Tire storage adds extra value to the tion and the pre-booking of their next under the resource tab. I highly service you’re providing for the appointment. If you’re doing inspec- recommend you take a look at my customer as well as guarantees tions every visit and updating their file checklist as a frame of reference and customer retention for the following with any upcoming or deferred work, add in any extra items that are relevant season. There are different services that you’re well on your way to having a to your shop. Being organized and provide tire storage or you can choose productive off-season. prepared before the start of the busy to do it in house. Whatever you choose I fully understand the non-stop rush time can make a huge difference to to do, I guarantee it will be a smart that is the busy season. Nevertheless, the overall productivity and success financial decision. it is important to take the time to of the season. Finally, make sure your tire pre-book upcoming appointments for It’s the nature of this business that equipment is in full working condition every customer who comes in. This there will be busy times and there will and will be able to handle the influx of action alone will help ensure that you be slow times and it is essential that extra work. Along with the equipment, have cars to fill the bays when the tire you’re fully capable of producing and make sure you’re fully stocked with changeover season slows down. making money during both seasons. proper tire inventory such as tire Let’s spend some time talking about With every season comes opportu- weights, and tire bags. what you can do to ensure that you’re nity and it’s your role as shop owner or But being fully prepared for tire capitalizing during ‘opportunity manager to seek out and cash in on season is only one piece of maximizing season.’ That’s how I’d like you to think these opportunities. on your busy season. In order to make of slow season from now on. It is ‘oppor- money, you must be prepared to capi- tunity season’ for growth in your talize on all the potential mechanical business. Alan Beech is a work that’s coming through your doors. This is the time where you can tackle management consultant Again, this is another aspect of the any renovations that you’ve been and the owner of Beech process that needs to be fully commu- holding off on or employee training Motorworks in Hamilton, nicated and practiced. that you haven’t had the time for. Ont. You can reach Alan at In order to access the mechanical Ongoing training for both your [email protected].
December 2015 17 vehicle from ‘unfit’ to ‘fit.’ The changes to the regulations were two years in the making, and involved a lot of input from industry players. The new process was also field tested by a handful of shops. “The last thing we wanted was a new standard that made sense to govern- ment but made no sense to people on the floor,” Lindsay said. Toronto shop owner John Cochrane, who helped field test the new inspec- tion, said the new requirements add only a few more minutes to the process. “It’s a huge, huge improvement over the old inspection,” he said. “And it really only takes about 10 minutes more. On first blush, some guys will say they need an hour and a half or two hours for this inspection. But that’s going to kill it. The government is very mindful of what the consumer is paying.” He thinks shops could comfortably charge $110 to $120 range for the inspection. Taking a “I think that could be the sweet spot,” he said. “If you start to creep into the $180 to $200 range for an inspection, it’s going to create issues.” MTO inspection officer Bob Stickan CLOSER LOOK agreed, saying the ministry doesn’t want to price a used car out of the Ontario’s new inspection the new process,” said Rhonda Lindsay, public’s reach, or push people out of process will involve checking manager of the business innovation the used-car market. team in the ministry’s Carrier Safety He offered a summary look at the new even more components, and Enforcement Branch. “That’s going inspection process, starting with its careful measurements, and a to take some time. There’s no reason ease-of-use as a PDF document that mandatory road test. you can’t start practicing and getting resides on a shop computer or can easily comfortable with the new require- be referenced on the ministry website. By Allan Janssen ments now.” One of the biggest changes inspec- Speaking at a symposium hosted by tors will need to get used to is the level the Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of specificity that is required. Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation of Ontario recently, Lindsay said the “Proper measurements and record- (MTO) is planning a series of informa- new rules, the first major rewrite of the ings of those measurements will tion sessions to bring technicians up to inspection process in 40 years, can be become the norm for you,” he predicted. speed on the long-anticipated changes viewed online at www.Ontario.ca/mvis. And, as with the old inspection, a coming to its Safety Standard Inspection. Approximately 33,000 technicians at pass or fail is based on the condition The changes don’t take effect until more than 12,000 stations across the of the vehicle at time of inspection, he July 1, but the ministry is already province are qualified to do the inspec- stressed. “That hasn’t changed. This is encouraging inspection stations to get tion, which is required when registering not a prediction of the vehicle’s future familiar with the new Regulation 611. a rebuilt vehicle, transferring a used condition. It is also not a warranty of “Even though you’re not certifying vehicle to a new owner, registering a the condition of the vehicle. You don’t vehicles to the new standard yet, it’s vehicle coming in from another have to warranty it.” OK if you want to start getting used to province, or changing the status of a Here are some of the major changes:
18 CARS Section 1: Powertrain Section 5: Instruments & Use of wheel spacers is now prohib- “Over the years, I don’t know how Auxiliary Equipment ited, although adapters are permitted many people have said why aren’t The horn switch must be properly if they’re in good shape. U-Joints included in the safety inspec- marked. Speedometer and odometer tion? Why aren’t CV joints?” he said. function will have to be verified. And Section 9: Coupling Devices “Well guess what, folks. They’re in windshield wipers must be in working Coupling devices were always part of there now.” order. the old inspection, but now there are Also requiring inspection are New checks include specific requirements for a number of engine and transmission coolant leakage from all different hitch systems. Rust and mounts, gear shifter, gear heaters and fuel leakage corrosion resulting in structural dete- indicator, accelerator pedals from auxiliary heaters. rioration is an issue. And any hardware and actuators, accelerator PTO and plow controls that is permanently installed on the cables, turbochargers, DEF must be properly mounted vehicle must be inspected. systems, drive shaft, differen- so they don’t interfere with tial, clutch, clutch pedal, and steering or pedals. Section 10: Road Test the drive belt pulley. The purpose of the road test is to “Technology is changing all Bob Stickan Section 6: Lamps & enable the detection of safety concerns the time,” said Stickan. “So Electrical in the vehicle that can’t be found while we’ve included criteria for electric Lighting requirements have all been the vehicle is stationary. vehicles, hybrid electric powertrain updated to incorporate the lighting It must be over 40 km-h, with left vehicles, and compressed natural gas, equipment required by the federal safety and right turns at full lock (checking propane-fueled vehicles.” standard at the time the vehicle was new. for abnormal noises, binding, On LED lights there are failure thresh- or seizing). Section 2: Suspension olds if not all diodes are working. The road test must include a heavy Among new inspection requirements Centre-mounted brake lights, hazard application of service brakes to a full are ride height, air suspension compo- lights, and daytime running stop, and driving over a bump nents, and suspension system travel. lights must all be checked. of at least 5 cm in height. There are also new criteria for shock Headlight aim must be There is also a new require- and strut inspection. checked. ment to verify parking brake Battery hold-down straps performance. Section 3: Brakes and cables must be inspected. Disassembly or removal of wheels and Section 11: brake parts may be required in order Section 7: Body Inspection Report to facilitate a full inspection of all All latches, handles, door An inspection report must be components. Measurements must be openers, hinges, and other Rhonda Lindsay completed for every safety taken of brake-shoe lining thickness devices attached to the vehicle inspection conducted, with and brake-drum diameter. On disc must now be inspected. one copy going to the customer and brakes, the rotor thickness and pad There are also specific requirements one copy (either paper or electronic) friction thickness (both inner and to verify the structural integrity of the retained on site for one year. It must outer) must be measured. body, frame, sub-frame, tailgate, include date of inspection, VIN, The new rules distinguish between bumper, and seats. odometer reading, and all relevant types of brake systems, with different measurements. test criteria for vacuum assist, hydraulic Section 8: Tires & Wheels The MTO is hoping the roll-out goes assist, and air assist brakes. There are Minimum tread depth has been smoothly and is encouraging inspec- also new requirements for ABS and increased from 1.5 mm to 2 mm. tors to offer their feedback as they get ESC systems. Retreads and re-grooving are now used to the new system. prohibited, as is the mixing of radial “We understand this is not going to Section 4: Steering with other tire types. be perfect out of the gate,” said Lindsay. New requirements include rack and Tire inflation will have to be checked “Our expectation is that it’s a work in pinion steering parts (boot, bellows, and recorded. And while TPMS is not progress. We’re not going to just put it clamps), upper strut bearings, steering mandatory, if the malfunction indicator on the shelf for another 40 years. We’re dampener, remote steering, power lamp doesn’t light during cycle check going to stay in touch with all the stake- steering pumps, and associated or if it stays illuminated, that must be holders, and your comments will be components. recorded. important to us.”
December 2015 19 2011 Chevrolet Cruze variable oil pump Va r ia ble displacement They’re intended to improve fuel economy… but getting oil pumps the PCM involved could mean more trouble codes.
By Jeff Taylor When we think of the connection lower CO2 emissions. Multiplied over between lubrication and fuel economy, the fleet of vehicles on the road today, we often think about engine oil that it adds up to a significant amount. has a particularly low viscosity. But have you given much thought to how Fixed positive much engine power is consumed displacement pumps pumping the oil through the engine? Internal combustion engines have had Well if you haven’t, don’t worry. oil pumps for decades, and almost all Vehicle engineers have been thinking of them are driven directly by the engine. about it for a while now. Over the past The most common designs are the few years, they’ve identified yet another gerotor (the name is derived from area on the engine that the powertrain “generated rotor”), the spur gear pump, control module (PCM) can control. and the vane-style pump. They all have Yes, they’ve started to control how one major thing in common: they’re much power the oil pump steals from fixed positive displacement pumps. the engine… and although the gains in Most oil pumps are driven directly off efficiency might seem rather small, the nose of the crankshaft or indirectly every little bit counts when you’re from the camshaft or crankshaft, using trying to improve fuel economy and the distributor/blind shaft drive, a
20 CARS These filters are for very specific years of the same Chrysler 3.6 V6. They will fit in the same housing but they are not the same filter. Special attention has to be paid to ensure the proper filter is If the circled O-ring is missing, a code installed… or a ‘Service Engine Soon’ light This regular 2014 Ram pickup with a 3.6 P06DD can be set on a Chrysler or Jeep. will illuminate, or other issues will follow. V6 has a dual speed oil pump. cogged belt, a chain drive, or a series There are two different ways to do that: protection and overall performance. of gears, just to name a few of the most dynamically or passively. Mazda SkyActiv, for example, common designs used over the years. controls the output pressure with an The problem with the fixed displace- Passive systems oil control solenoid that varies the relief ment oil pump is that at an idle or other The passive system controls the valve open pressure, enabling either a low-RPM scenario, the oil pump is amount of oil flow using a combination high or low pressure oil output. Other turning slowly because of its direct link of springs in the relief/bypass valve manufacturers are going down a to crankshaft speed. This means that assembly. During high RPMs, or when different avenue: variable displacement in order for it to deliver enough oil to the oil is of a high viscosity, a calibrated engine oil pumps. all the moving parts in the engine, it spring allows oil to be bled off, dumping Variable displacement oil pumps are has to be designed oversized. it back to the sump or recirculating it of two common designs, the gerotor or While under low RPMs, the oil pump into the oil pump itself, and thereby the vane style. Some manufacturers will produce adequate oil volume and reducing the amount of energy that the favor the use of the vane-style pump pressure to provide oil pump uses. because it’s more efficient… even if it engine protection. But VW uses this kind of is more complex and quite expensive when the RPMs system, claiming that it to produce. The gerotor pump, on the increase, that amount reduces oil pump effort by other hand, has found its own of oil is overkill. as much as 30%. It is also champions. In both designs, the size of Traditionally, the excess said to extend the life of the cavity inside the pumping chamber oil is bled back into the the engine oil because less is changed to control the volume of oil oil pan or sump by the is being circulated. And a that is pumped. And, in both cases, oil pressure bypass passive system also there is some form of control fixture to valve or relief valve, or prevents the engine oil vary the pump’s displacement. it might be recycled from foaming because the The oil pump’s design dictates how internally in the pump. pump can maintain a regulated the oil volume is controlled. The fixed Under most normal operation, the pressure across a wide range of displacement gerotor pump works by oil pump consumes more energy from operating conditions. using trochoid gears, an inner gear the engine than is actually needed… Despite these benefits, the leading (typically attached to the crankshaft), and this inefficiency creates a parasitic technology when it comes to volume and a driven outer gear. Because both power loss. Given our current obsession control is the dynamic method – largely of the gears follow a different centre of with fuel economy and emissions, because it can be controlled by the PCM. rotation, the spaces between the teeth parasitic losses just aren’t acceptable create a pumping effect (with a suction anymore. Dynamic systems side and a pressure side). It’s this space Using a variable-displacement oil In the dynamically controlled system, that controls the volume of the pump. pump is one way to trim those losses. the oil pump’s output may be altered To convert this pump to a variable While some form of pressure release in steps (high and low), or it could be displacement a control ring is added valve still needs to be incorporated into controlled very specifically to produce around the outer gear. This ring the pump’s designs, the output volume exactly the pressure or volume that the changes the centre of rotation of the of the pump can now be controlled. manufacturer needs for optimal engine outer gear and, by doing so, changes
December 2015 21 the volume of the pump. of a second… and this will put the engine The control ring is actuated hydrau- in reduced-power mode. But a similar lically (using engine oil pressure) and code P06DD on a Chrysler or Jeep 3.6L its position is regulated typically by a V6 could mean that either the incorrect PWM (pulse width modulated) oil filter has been installed or the O-ring solenoid. In a fixed displacement vane- on the bottom of the proper oil filter is style pump, the inner slotted rotor has damaged or missing and the expected variable-length vanes that rotate in a oil pressure isn’t being achieved. fixed elliptical chamber. By changing So does all this control and compli- the volume of the cavities between cation actually result in any fuel neighbouring vanes, a pumping action savings? Yes, it does. Some manufac- is created as the rotor rotates. Similar turers claim a 3% to 6% increase in fuel to the gerotor a PMW oil pressure-con- economy under both hot and cold trolled actuator is attached to the ellip- This is the connector that goes to the starts and better economy during high- tical part of the pump and the volume dual speed oil pump control solenoid speed engine operation. The gains are of the pump’s cavity size is changed as through the side of the engine block at likely more in the neighborhood of it is rotated. the front just behind the timing cover. about 1% for the average engine, but The rest of the control system used lower oil pressures on oil pressure to control the variable displacement timing chain tensioners produce lower oil pump is similar across both pumps friction and decrease parasitic losses. designs. There will be pressure sensors There are other benefits that come to detect the pressure of the oil and from controlling the amount of oil report this output to the PCM. These flowing through the engine. For sensors are mounted in an oil gallery example, heat transfer can now be between the main bearings and oil better controlled in the pistons and delivered to the cylinder heads. This Even on this generic scanner the oil cylinder head assemblies, allowing for area gives the PCM a better idea of the pressure, temperature, and oil pump faster warm up and better efficiency. complete system pressure, and thus status are shown. And with the use of turbo chargers, oil provides better decision-making ability flow can be used to reduce the when it comes to varying the displace- the PCM heavily involved in another formation of carbon. ment of the pump. engine operating system… and that The effect of controlling oil pressure could mean trouble codes. is something the manufacturers are PCM involvement Simple things like the wrong viscosity going to continue to explore over the The PCM will also need to know the of engine oil could set a trouble code. coming years. And you can be sure that temperature of the engine oil. When There could also be trouble codes for variable displacement oil pumps are the oil or engine is cold, the viscosity incorrect oil pressure, and solenoid or going to be used extensively from now has to be higher, and the PCM needs actuator issues. There may be a PID for on. There are very few vehicle manu- this information to determine the the actuator’s commanded position and facturers that are not using some form position of the actuator that regulates some bi-directional controls as well. oil pump control. The reason is clear. the displacement of the oil pump. Some situations such as engine over- It saves fuel. There may be an actual oil temperature heating, low oil pressure, or oil-pressure sensor but in many cases the PCM will actuator solenoid issues could trigger Jeff Taylor is a former calculate a value using existing sensors the PCM to limit or reduce the engine’s ACDelco Technician of (ECT/IAT) and use things like load and power to prevent damage. the Millennium and engine-speed parameters to calculate A 2014 GMC pickup with a 4.3L V6 Canadian Technician of the pumps displacement. could set a P06DD or P06DE if it detects the Year. He’s the senior Similar to almost all the other an issue in the oil pressure control tech at Eccles Auto systems on the vehicle, we now have solenoid circuit for less than a quarter Service in Dundas, Ont.
22 CARS
Switch to Tork wipers and save*
23% 23% 20% less time less solvent less effort
Do you use rags or rental shop towels? You could save time, money and effort with Tork disposable wipers. We make a range of professional wipers for wiping, cleaning and polishing. Tork industrial wipers are designed to do the job right, time after time, without the risk of damaging equipment or your finished product. Try them today!
Visit talktork.com/industrial to start your free trial and see how much you can save.
* Rental shop towels, cotton rags and mixed rags were compared to Tork Heavy-Duty Cleaning Cloths. Panel test conducted by Swerea Research Institute, Sweden, 2014. ** Rental shop towels, cotton and mixed rags were compared to Tork Heavy-Duty and © 2015 SCA Tissue North America LLC. All rights reserved. Tork Industrial Heavy-Duty Cleaning Cloths. Panel test conducted by Swerea Research Institute, Sweden, 2014. Tork® is a registered trademark of SCA Tissue North America LLC, or its affiliates. BAYWATCH
European nameplate brake pads Federal-Mogul Motorparts’ new Ferodo line of OE-quality replacement brake pads has been expanded to cover dozens of additional late-model applications, increasing the line’s coverage to 98 percent of European nameplate passenger vehicles registered in North America. The new coverage, available immediately, includes several popular Audi, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen models up to and including the 2015 model year. www.ferodo.com
Aftermarket parts Continental has introduced a new premium after- market brand called Elite for New strut line North American markets. The new Gabriel (Ride Control, LLC) has brand will label and identify released a line of Guardian struts and Continental’s aftermarket products ReadyMounts to complement its that include automotive parts, heavy- Guardian shock family. Introductory duty truck parts, power sports and coverage will include over 250 SKUs outdoor power equipment product as between struts and ReadyMounts, and well as all of its aftermarket timing will complement Gabriel’s Ultra series products, hoses and related accesso- by servicing the entry price points with ries. Continental Elite automotive parts an affordable and quality product that include Poly-V belts with Quiet Channel provides a comfortable ride to family Technology, hose, timing belts, timing vehicles under normal driving condi- belt kits, tensioners/idlers, de-couplers tions. A catalog featuring just the new and a strong selection of tools and Guardian struts and ReadyMounts has accessories. been released, and all of the new part www.continental-elite.com numbers are loaded in the Gabriel on-line catalog. Coated rotors www.gabriel.com ACDelco has launched a new Advantage coated TPMS sensor rotor line to enhance its Continental existing brake part family. Commercial Vehicles The new product line has a “Cool & Aftermarket has Shield” protective coating that works to dramatically expanded vehicle appli- prevent corrosion as a result of inclement cation coverage with its new Clamp-in weather and various other road condi- VDO REDI-Sensor TPMS Sensor. The tions. The all-makes line has launched new sensor delivers the same excep- with over 500 SKUs, covering over 90% tional coverage as the popular VDO of the vehicles on the road. The new REDI-Sensor SE10002, plus provides Advantage coated rotor is said to be an new coverage for over three million especially effective solution for Canadian additional vehicles through model year customers. The line has high quality engi- 2016, with even more coverage neering with specific vane configurations pre-stored for future model years. matching the application design. www.redi-sensor.com www.acdelecocanada.com
December 2015 25 BAYWATCH
Flex fuel sensor Timing belt Continental Commercial Vehicles & kits Aftermarket has expanded its recently Continental has launched VDO OEM Direct Parts introduced an Program to include flex fuel sensors expanded offering of timing belt kits and water pumps. The program also designed to deliver Elite OE Solutions includes air actuators, electronic Technology. Available January 2016, throttle valves, fuel injectors and fuel Continental’s tiered line of Elite timing modules as well as MAF and MAP belt kits will include: Elite Pro Series sensors. The flex fuel sensors are a Plus kit with OE quality components, featured green technology for GM water pump, cam and balance shaft vehicles. These sensors calculate the creating dynamic ignition timing and seals, and The Pro Series Guarantee; percentage of ethanol in fuel and E85 capability. Elite Pro Series kit with OE quality adjust the output signal to the ECU www.vdo.com/usa components, water pump and The Pro Series Guarantee; Elite Series kit with water pump; and Elite kit without Lubricant Load carrying ball joint water pump. In all, more than 550 SKUs April Lubricants has Moog has introduced an will be available covering more than introduced HYPER SYN innovative, high-strength 8,300 applications. SAE 0W-20 dexos1 replacement load-carrying www.thequietbelt.com approved, a 100% ball joint for a broad range synthetic lubricant of of late-model vehicles Brakes products the sort required for all equipped with compres- Tenneco has expanded 2011 and future GM sion-loaded suspension its line of Monroe vehicles as well as 2010 systems. Designed to Brakes brake pads to and earlier GM vehicles. ensure a more robust and effective seal, cover a combined total of 46.5 million According to the it features a hardened ball stud that additional registered vehicles. With the company, HYPER SYN SAE 0W-20 withstands higher loads, a premium latest coverage expansion, Total dexos1 approved offers improved fuel forged housing with an increased Solution and Monroe ProSolution economy, reduced gas emission, wear cross-section having up to 52 percent brake pads are now available for a high protection, and performance in extreme more material in key areas, and a percentage of passenger car and light conditions. patent-pending hardened steel bearing truck brake service opportunities. The www.aprilsuperflo.com sleeve with a powered-metal gusher company introduced 26 Monroe Total bearing to provide controlled axial and Solution and 54 Monroe ProSolution Brake pads radial movement. The timesaving prein- pad sets in 2015 and will launch more Wagner has intro- stalled, integral dust boot is manufac- than 80 additional pad sets next year. duced a line of tured from stronger material, as well, www.monroebrakes.com new-technology to ensure superior durability and service premium replacement life. Also included is a pre-tapped grease Workflow enhancements brake pads that, according fitting hole for easy installation of a Mitchell 1 has made to third-party tests, help consumers stop threaded grease fitting. major enhancements up to 50 feet sooner when driving light www.federalmogul.com. in the latest edition trucks, sport utility vehicles and cross- of the software, overs. The Wagner OEX line includes Automatic Manager SE version 114 custom-shaped, application-specific transmission fluid 7.0, designed to help auto repair shop pad designs covering 95 percent of util- Liqui Moly’s Top Tec ATF 1800 is suitable owners work more efficiently. ity-focused passenger vehicles regis- for ZF model 8HPxx transmissions The enhancements include a new tered in North America. The unique pad found in various BMW, Dodge, scheduler and user interface updates. shapes, combined with precisely engi- Iveco, Jaguar, Jeep, Lancia, Land The 7.0 release has a new look and feel neered slots and cuts, improve perfor- Rover, Maserati, Rolls-Royce and that is more modern in appearance and mance by increasing turbulent airflow, Volkswagen models. The fluid takes advantage of functionality in allowing for cooler operation and is approved by Dexron VI and newer versions of the Windows improved stopping power. Mercon LV. operating system. www.WagnerBrake.com www.liqui-moly.us www.mitchell1.com
26 CARS Cabin Filter Fuel pump Mann+Hummel has introduced the new Mann-Filter Robert Bosch offers best-in-class high-pressure FreciousPlus line of cabin air filters featuring fuel pumps for a variety of vehicles equipped advanced technologies that trap and bind allergens, with gasoline direct injection (GDI) systems. preventing the growth of bacteria, molds and fungi. Manufactured on the same production lines as The new Mann-Filter FreciousPlus cabin air filter its original equipment pumps, Bosch High-Pressure Fuel uses a biofunctional layer with polyphenol – an active substance Pumps for the aftermarket feature OE-level form, fit and found in many plants – to capture over 98 percent of free- function. The unique design of Bosch High-Pressure Fuel floating allergens and up to 97 percent of hazardous particulate Pumps released for the aftermarket is based on a single-barrel, matter. It further works as an antimicrobial agent that blocks all stainless steel concept using a minimum of material and the proliferation of allergy triggering bacteria and molds. advanced manufacturing processes. They are equipped with www.mann-hummel.com an integrated pressure limiting valve as a failsafe feature to mitigate premature failure of the unit. Premium oil filter www.robertbosch.com Purolator has launched the new PurolatorBOSS line of premium oil filters Diagnostic information designed to optimize engine performance. The SureTrack diagnostic information resource Available in the first quarter of 2016, this in ProDemand now offers over 24 million articles new oil filter supports maximum engine to assist technicians of all skill levels with their protection for conventional, synthetic and semi-synthetic diagnostics. Article categories in SureTrack include: Real fixes blend motor oils across a wide range of viscosities. It employs (shortcuts based on actual repairs performed in shops), tips, exclusive SmartFUSION Technology, which features component tests, known good waveform images, and questions 100-percent synthetic media supported by fully integrated, answered by the SureTrack community of experts. More than reinforced polymer mesh. 400,000 new Real Fixes are added to the product each month. www.pureoil.com www.mitchell1.com
December 2015 27
THE $'9(57,6(5,1'(; ...continued from page 30 AIA Canada ...... 28 ZZZDLDFDQDGDFRP the clutch packs in the rear differential.” “Flush them out? How do you do that?” Blue Streak Hygrade ...... 3 Basil smiled. “It’s quite fun, actually. Once you’ve changed ZZZEOXHVWUHDNFD the fluid, you go to a deserted parking lot and drive in a tight RH circle for five minutes, and then do the same in the left hand direction. The tight turns allow the georotor pump to BMW Group ...... 4 ZZZEPZLUFD fully flush out the clutch packs.” He chuckled. “But you might get some strange looks if anyone’s watching.” Tooner grunted. “Yeah, and besides that… the special GM Chrysler Canada ...... 10 fluid costs $50 per half litre – and the diff holds 1.9 litres. That’s ZZZ0RSDUFD $200 bucks for one drain and they want you to do it twice!” But if it worked, it was cheaper than replacing the complete Continental ContiTech ...... 8 diff assembly – which was the next suggestion in GM’s TSB. ZZZFRQWLWHFKFD By the next morning the Buick was flushed and gone, but Beanie was still waxing philosophical. Eni USA R & Mco Inc ...... 25 “Hey Basil, didn’t that Yogi guy also say, ‘When you come ZZZHQLFRPQD to a fork in the road, take it’?” We froze and held our breath. Was Beanie thinking of Federal Mogul Corporation ...... 11 quitting and moving on? ZZZ:DJQHU/LJKWLQJFRP Basil coughed nervously. “Yes, he did. Why do you ask?” Beanie squirmed in his chair. “Well, ever since I moved out on my own, I’ve discovered I can’t cook or keep things clean. Ford Motor Canada ...... 7 Now, Samantha’s a great cook and she’s very organized. Plus, ZZZIRUGFD I’ve been getting hints that she wants our relationship to go to the next level.” ,GHQWLÀ[ ...... 13 We all exhaled. Tooner mopped his face with a rag. “Okay ZZZWUXWKLGHQWLÀ[FRP guys, I got this.” He turned to Beanie. “So ya think getting’ hitched will solve all yer problems?” 3URPD[$XWR3DUWV'HSW/WG ...... 5 Beanie reddened. “Well, it seems to work for you guys.” ® ZZZDXWRSDUWVGHSRWFD Basil went into a coughing fit. I said nothing. “I’ll be straight with ya, kid,” said Tooner, once he’d composed himself. SCA Tork ...... 24 “Getting’ hitched might land ya some good meals and a clean ZZZWDONWRUNFRPLQGXVWULDO house, but believe me, it’ll uncover a pack of character flaws you never even knew ya had! You think déjà vu with a Buick was bad? You ain’t seen nothin’ yet.” Shell Canada ...... 31 ZZZVKHOOFDYSRZHU There were a few moments of respectful silence. But Beanie wasn’t ready to give up. “Surely there’s ways to work through all that. I mean, if a couple keeps an eye on their relationship, Snap-on Tools of Canada ...... 2 there’ll be warning signs to guide them, right?” ZZZVQDSRQFRP “Ya got that right!” replied Tooner. “I been married 40 years and I don’t need no scanner to know when there’s a problem 7RWDO/XEULFDQWV ...... 15 ‘tween me and Mabel. When I screw up, them warning lights ZZZWRWDOFDQDGDFD on her face start flashing loud and clear!”
I puzzled over that one, how a light could flash loudly. But 9/&RPPXQLFDWLRQV ...... 23 I did get his point. As Yogi Berra also once said, ‘You can ZZZYOFRPFRP observe a lot just by watching.’
Rick Cogbill :25/'3$& ...... 27 is a freelance writer and a former ZZZZRUOGSDFFRPWH[WDU shop owner in Summerland, B.C. You can read more garage misadventures in Rick’s book, “A Fine Day for a Drive,” available at :25/'3$& ...... 32 ZZZZRUOGSDFFDGULYHQ www.thecarside.com.
December 2015 29 THE
John Fraser Rendezvous Déjà Vu In vehicle diagnostics, as in interpersonal relationships, sometimes one problem is masking another. By Rick Cogbill
“It’s like I’m back where I started… only different.” by connecting each sensor to our lab scope, checking their Tooner’s coffee mug sloshed to a stop halfway to his mouth. resistance, and graphing out their frequency patterns. “Huh? You ain’t makin’ no sense, Bean.” Everything passed muster. Beanie swirled his pop can and took another swallow. “Then I read about some corrosion issues with the wiring “What I mean is, I’ve solved one problem… but now I have harness connector that comes down through the floor behind another. Only I think the second problem was already there, the driver’s seat, so I checked that out. In fact, I pulled apart but I didn’t see it because the first problem was hiding it. So all the VSS sensor connectors I could find and checked all it’s like I’ve been here before but not really.” the wiring harnesses. But I found nothing wrong.” Beanie The culprit of Beanie’s angst was the 2002 Buick Rendezvous waved a ketchup-and-pickle potato chip in the air. “So I lurking in the far bay. The customer’s complaint was a reoc- cleared the codes and went for another road test and suddenly curring ABS problem. It would pass the initial system check, the ABS works great.” but within a block the ABS system would engage at slow Tooner belched loudly. “Ok, you repaired a poor connection speeds and finally kick out, illuminating the ABS warning by messin’ with all the sensors. It’s fixed, so what’s your beef?” light. The all-wheel-drive warning light was also on, showing Beanie sighed. “Now I’ve got a groaning noise from the rear that the traction control system was disabled as well. But diff on slow tight turns, and it wasn’t there before.” that made sense since the historical trouble codes – C036, Basil took a sip of his tea as he surfed his iPad. “That’s C040, and C041 - were indicating issues with the wheel speed actually a very common problem.” He removed his reading sensors. Both the ABS and AWD systems required VSS input glasses. “The noise is from the clutches in the Versatrak in order to operate. all-wheel drive system. You didn’t notice it before because Basil stirred his green tea and chuckled. “You remind me the system was turned off when the ABS was disabled. Only of the late great Yogi Berra; ‘It’s like déjà vu all over again.’ your front axle was engaged at that point.” Can you give us a quick run-down?” He slid the iPad across the table. “According to GM’s service Beanie opened a bag of chips and settled into his story. A bulletin #0604114001A, the first thing to try is flushing out road test with the scanner showed the wheel-speed sensors all operating correctly. Back in the shop, he double-checked ...continued on page 29
30 CARS