Dave Hobbs is at it again in his new class on F.R.E.D.s (Frustrating Ridiculous Electronic Devices)–coming soon from Automotive Video. Do you know what to do when your scan tool says “No Communications”? Can you quickly diagnose those dreaded “U-Codes” that report serial bus problems? The average vehicle today has more than $8,000 in electronic content with more modules (a.k.a. F.R.E.D.s – Frustrating Ridiculous Electronic Devices) as well as smart sensors connected to communications networks. In order to accurately diagnose, you must understand how these systems work.

In this tip clip, Dave Hobbs talks about what to do if you have a vehicle with no PCM data. You plug in your brick, and you go to pull codes or look at PIDs in this late 90s, whatever, early 2000 Chrysler. It’s got CCD. You think you’re talking on the CCD. You’re actually talking on SCI, and scan tool just sits there and says no communications. What could the problem be? Is it a bad scan tool? Bad computer? Bad bus wires? Well, in this clip Dave gives some quick pointers on what to look for next.

In this case study with Dave Hobbs, we learn about the complexities and challenges of diagnostics of data bus systems. Dave talks about a Chevy Malibu he once worked on: it couldn’t start several modules. He talks about how, sometimes, bus issues can be things you would never suspect and how keeping up with learning about these systems and understanding their complexities is necessary if you want to work on cars with these problems.

The ARAU presents a new campaign called ARAU: Kids Go Green Car Recycling, with resources for families and teachers. The ARAU new online e-coloring book provides an early education tool […]

Automotive Video, Inc. has been producing timely and informative training for automotive repair professionals since 1994. Our mission is to provide full-service training to the automotive repair industry.

In pursuit of that goal, AVI created ‘Scope It Out’ a news blog, that will keep you up-to-date with the latest new videos available from our extensive library, provide tips and timely information in articles written by our talented instructors, plus a chance for you, our loyal customer, to provide feedback, or even ask an instructor a specific question, all in an effort to bring training to your shop easily and effectively.

Recently, ASE announced that it is moving exclusively to computer-based testing (CBT) in 2012 for it’s 40-plus certification exams. Each of the tests will be offered for the last time in written form on the evenings of November 10, 15, and 17. Registration for these dates is currently open and ends September 30, 2011.

By Kevin S. McCartney. Kevin McCartney has compiled this comprehensive list of information related to modern oil additive and supplements. This is sure to be an interesting read full of new information for anyone interested in the science behind modern automotive oils.

In this case study from the 6.4 Powerstroke Diesel class, trainer Wally Mouradain discusses a turbo problem on a truck with a 2008 6.4 Powerstroke and how technicians should never overlook the simple or mechanical related failures the scan tool may never pick up.

In this excerpt from the ‘Victory Over Voltage Drops’ training program, instructor Dave Hobbs discusses the tools and techniques you will need to perform proper voltage drop tests by showing us several tools in use on a 2011 Equinox.

The new Ford Powerstroke Diagnostics with Instructor Wally Mouradin is now available! This Powerstroke 6.0, 6.4 and 6.7 diagnostics training program helps you choose the best tests that get you the most information with the least effort in order to fix these vehicles fast. These strategies are even more critical on Powerstroke engines because they are so time consuming to work on. This training program contains field-tested diagnostic and repair strategies that actually work, and includes tips and tricks developed in shops across the nation.

Sometimes, as a technicians, it feels like people expect you to be a mind reader, capable of reading the thoughts of both man and machine. You know it doesn’t have to be this way. Armed with the right information, a great technician will not have to read minds, but getting the right information requires a lot of training in order to stay up-to-date on new technology. At the AVI Training Conference alongside AAPEX in Las Vegas, you have the chance to attend the best management and technical training on the most current topics from the greatest instructors in the automotive industry.

Whether it be training on new equipment or scan tools, staying up-to-date with industry technology, professional development or simply the desire to learn something new–the learning never stops. That’s why AVI OnDemand helps thousands of technicians, trainers and shop owners achieve their diagnostic training goals. In the past few months, enrollment has steadily increased, allowing us to add new training courses to our digital library. Check out the list below for some of the latest additions to AVI OnDemand.

By Kevin S. McCartney. Modern engines rely much more heavily on the lubrication system for cooling than ever before. Oil coolers and coolant heated PCV systems present some new opportunities. But, there is a great deal of overlooked technology in modern motor oils that should be understood before this opportunity is addressed.

What we’re focusing on here is, you just did an engine job, or maybe you replaced the transmission, cylinder head job. You’ve had a significant portion of the vehicle disconnected underneath the hood. And you want to know, does everything have integrity? So in this particular case study, we’re going to go look to see if there are any trouble codes. We’ve done some work on the engine. We’ve had some things taken apart underneath the hood, and we want to use the scan tool make sure that the basic component test portion has passed. So let’s take a look at that.

By Scott ‘Gonzo’ Weaver. Sometimes, I’ll find faults with the so called “experts” advice or information. Not that I think I’m smarter than the engineers… no, not that at all. But if something strikes me as not being completely correct I might want to question what is on that diagnostic tree. Mind you, my entire day is filled with meeting the expectations of my customers. I have to be dead on with my repairs and diagnostics. Not some of the time, no, ALL the time. And, I expect the same from the people that provide the information and parts. The way I look at it, you’re only as good as the information provided.

AVI has coordinated with AAIA this year to bring you TWO exciting events at ONE time! AVI will be bringing their world class technical training to Vegas along side AAPEX […]

The new Ford Powerstroke Diagnostics with Instructor Wally Mouradin is set to be released Monday. This Powerstroke 6.0, 6.4 and 6.7 diagnostics training program helps you choose the best tests that get you the most information with the least effort in order to fix these vehicles fast. These strategies are even more critical on Powerstroke engines because they are so time consuming to work on. This training program contains field-tested diagnostic and repair strategies that actually work, and includes tips and tricks developed in shops across the nation.

In this excerpt from the A8 ASE test prep program, Instructor Dave Hobbs discusses some tips and tricks regarding various ways to perform a back pressure test. He also talks about how to make your own tool for this purpose and tells you what to look out for on the ASE A8 exam regarding back pressure related questions.

By Scott ‘Gonzo’ Weaver. When I was a kid, I used to watch my dad, who started out as a diesel mechanic, tune up cars and trucks from time to time. He would turn the adjustment screws on the carburetor until the engine smoothed out and started to purr. Then, after listening closely to the rumbling of the motor, the adjustment screws would get one final tweak. He would always bend down and cup his hand around the belching tail pipe exhaust and take a big sniff of the fumes, and then go back to his adjustments. That was back in the 60s and 70s before PCMs, O2 sensors and catalytic converters.

Through the years, AVI has helped thousands of technicians, trainers and shop owners achieve their diagnostic training goals. Whether it be training on new equipment or scan tools, staying up-to-date with industry technology, professional development or simply the desire to learn something new–the learning never stops. We all know that finding the time for training is hard. That’s why AVI OnDemand wants to make it easy for you to make time for great training.

It’s been a busy summer at AVI with two new training classes almost ready to join our library! Transform your frustration into profits in your shop with the interactive hands-on Victory Over Voltage Drop training course, and take your ASE certification to the next level with the Complete A8 Test Prep Program—the last step to being an ASE Certified Master Technician. Both Victory Over Voltage Drop and the Complete A8 Test Prep Program with Instructor Dave Hobbs are set to be released in the Fall.

Last week, Automotive Video launched a new Facebook Fan Page and an Application exclusively for ASE Test Prep! Learn more about the ASE certification exams, take interactive quizzes to test your knowledge, watch technical tip clips from our Test Prep programs, check out other AVI Test Prep opportunities, and more! AVI’s ASE Test Prep programs are designed to help automotive technicians easily and confidently pass their ASE certification tests. Our goal is to provide solid information and hands-on procedures across multiple platforms for the optimal learning experience.

By Dave Hobbs. A climate control system that automatically maintains a set interior climate while conditions outside constantly change might seem complicated. Cool-headed diagnostics involve breaking these systems into manageable parts.

Instructor Dave Hobbs talks about voltage drop testing issues where the circuit you’re testing doesn’t really have the current flow going through it like it should. It may not be due to the fact you have a big voltage drop from a large resistance source in the wiring or the connections. It could be a couple of problems. It could be the wiring and connections, in addition to a component that’s either inoperative or not drawing enough current as it normally would. In this tip clip we talk about these things and some alternative ‘MacGyver like’ load testing techniques you can try.

Section two of the ASE A8 task list is where you find ignition systems. In this video tip clip with instructor Dave Hobbs we’re going to do some cylinder balance testing, which will give us an idea if there is a misfire, and if so, which cylinder it is. And that oftentimes goes hand in hand with ignition diagnosis.

Taking ASE certification tests doesn’t have to be stressful or a challenge. Our online ASE Test Prep programs are designed to help automotive technicians easily and confidently pass their ASE certification tests. Our ASE Test Prep courses are packed with solid information and hands-on procedures based on the ASE Task Lists.

By Gary Goms. During the past nine months, I’ve had three instances of powertrain control module (PCM) failures on Jeep Wrangler vehicles that were evidently caused by an over-voltage condition. The first case involved an owner who requested that a local shop replace the fuel pump because his ’98 Wrangler was slow-starting in the morning.

By Scott ‘Gonzo’ Weaver. A customer comes into the shop the other day with a handful of papers about his car. Each page was full of information and diagrams pertaining to a repair. He was extremely proud of himself, and proceeded to tell me how he found this wealth of knowledge on the Internet.

ASE recently announced that it is ‘throwing out the pencils’ and moving to all computer-based testing (CBT) in 2012. While all certification testing will still take place at secure, proctored Test Centers, the new, enhanced CBT program will include features like immediate test results, various testing dates and times throughout the year, and more!

By Tom Ham. Are the people at your front desk too technical? Does your shop have a good incentive pay plan? Do you have options available for your customers? Check out the latest Auto Shop Monthly Management Tips from the Automotive Management Network to get inside secrets on managing your shop and increasing your bottom line.

In this tip clip excerpt, trainer Dave Scaler talks about Nissan Infiniti electronic throttle control systems. When we talk about Nissan Infiniti vehicles, one of the most common repairs in debate today surrounds the Fly By Wire or Electronic Throttle Control. Electronic throttle control system on a Nissan Infiniti vehicle is problematic. What we’re going to do is take a look, not only to see how it works, but to see what breaks, and what we can do about fixing it.

In this tip clip, instructor Jim Wilson talks about P0300 codes and misfire testing using your scan tool. He talks about how you would look at certain things such as RPM, MAP, changes in load, and long term fuel trims. He goes on to mention some things technicians should be aware of on Ford and Chrysler vehicles.

By John Thornton. Last time (Fall 2010), we looked at two Nissan variable valve timing case studies, provided by John Thornton. There wasn’t enough room in that issue for John’s very informative third case study, so it’s included here. After we’ve finished with the third case study, we’ll move into an overview of the construction, operation and diagnosis of various crank sensor designs. Let’s get started.

Instructor Dave Hobbs gives some insight into something a lot of techs already know about and may just take for granted–two stage temperature sensors. He covers some specifics about the sensors, testing procedures, and how to avoid replacing parts that are good only to find you still have a problem. He also gives some details and insight into the differences in design and wiring of these sensors between the individual manufacturers.