Broken power seat switch

Some vehicles are susceptible to broken power seat switches. My neighbor has a late 90s Ford pickup that has had the control switch for the power seats replaced several times. Although he would like to blame his wife I think it is actually a poor design.

The power control master switch sticks way out from the base of the seat. It’s positioned in such a way that when you swing your feet in (depending on the length of your legs and the size of your feet) the Master control is kind of in the way.

Add to this the fact that the automotive parts themselves are made from cheap plastic and they will not survive a collision with a person’s foot. Just below I have included some popular power seat switches. Replacing this part on most models is relatively easy and often only requires a screw driver. Keep in mind Luxury German cars have complex systems that make it much harder to diagnose and repair. In some cases you might want to have the step by step instructions from a factory service manual.

In my neighbor’s situation its just a matter of removing the trim panel that snaps into place and then removing the two Phillips head screws that secure the master power seat switch to the bottom part of the seat frame. This operation makes for a great Diy auto repair and that’s why I decided to provide an article for encouragement.

Vehicle manufacturers are installing powered seat options even on economy cars these days. It’s a nifty little option that can help sell vehicles without increasing manufacturing costs by much. Just a decade ago only the most luxurious vehicles came with this option. For experienced car buyers this option adds value. It can help push the prospect over the edge and make them purchase the automobile.

Memory power seats are better

Although economy cars may be coming with the power seat option more often it is still unusual for them to include a memory function. To me this is a big deal and adds a lot of value to this option. I’m sure we’re all familiar with having our driver’s seat in the perfect position.

Then we take it in for a car wash or oil change and when we get back into the vehicle the seat just doesn’t feel right. Often getting the seat back to the exact position it was in before the repairs can be difficult and take a little while. The feeling we get when we’re driving in this situation is slightly uncomfortable which can get annoying over time.

power seat switch with memory

I have finally purchased a vehicle with a memory power seat option and a simple push of a button returns the seat to the exact position it was in before the car wash took place. The memory seat option allows for automatic positioning of the seats. Sometimes even the passenger side will have memory but most often it’s just the driver’s side. This feature allows different drivers to have different seat positions automatically.

It can also allow one driver to set the seat for several different driving situations. When you’re on a long trip and using the cruise control the tendency is to move the seat further back for increased comfort in the leg area. Often pushing the gas pedal to the floor from this position can be difficult. This is where the multiple memory seat position can be priceless. You can basically have a cruising and a performance driving position.

The latest luxury cars don’t require you to even hit the power seat switches. Some key-less entry systems use the remote key fob that is programmed to move the seat to its memory position every time the unlock button is triggered to open the driver side door. Some of these memory power seat functions even adjust the rear view and side view mirrors at the same time. This provides the ultimate pushbutton setup.

As power seat options evolve it looks like the next wave in luxury seating will be adaptive or active power seat systems. This is where the seat moves automatically with no driver input. Active seating can stimulate the back and surrounding muscles with continuous yet virtually in detectable motion. This type of power seating is designed to prevent driver fatigue. On these type of systems power seat switches are included for a built-in massage function that can also help with fatigue on long trips.

Automotive technology is an amazing ever evolving science. The good thing is, as it continues to evolve the older systems find their way on the least expensive automobiles. For more of the latest articles posted here this next link will take you back to the homepage for the auto repair information blog.

Cold Air Induction Kit

This week I wanted to talk a little about cold air induction systems. Last week I talked about standard air filter maintenance and a few people ask me about my thoughts on high performance air intakes. I also wanted to provide a little history about how far scooping up air for the engine has come.

Back in the old days before all of the emission system controls the air induction system was quite simple it basically consisted of an air cleaner housing mounted on top of the carburetor with a simple filter inside of the metal housing.

Although it was simplified its function was the same as it is today and that is to provide a generous quantity of air that has been filtered free of grit and dirt. The air intake system on a modern fuel injected engine is much more complicated.

On modern vehicles more attention is paid to trying to pull cool air from outside the engine compartment into the air filter assembly. Where as in the old days the air filters sat on top of the engine it is more common today to find the air filter placed below the top of the engine to allow for more efficient aerodynamic body designs.

What does a cold air induction system do

Highperformance air filter

Just like in the old days its main task is to filter the air to protect the engine from sand, dust, dirt and debris. If this undesired material finds its way into the combustion chamber, wear or damage to cylinder walls and piston rings can occur quickly. The air induction system is also used to silence the air intake noise on some models.

Also on some models the air induction system can monitor the airflow and temperature of the air that is entering the intake manifold. This can become extremely important when it comes to emissions and maximum fuel economy calculations that are performed by the on-board computers.

Some air induction systems will also use a venture vacuum effect to operate a positive crankcase ventilation system or better known as PCV that will prevent a buildup of undesired gases in the crankcase. These gases are pulled into the intake stream and mixed with the intake charge and burned during combustion. This system is also critical so that pressure does not build up inside the engine and push out sealing gaskets. I have seen cases where the PCV system has failed and it has actually caused severe engine oil leaks.

Do you need a cold air induction system

If you have an older vehicle especially one from the 90s purchasing an aftermarket cold air induction kit can improve fuel economy and performance in many cases. During the 90s vehicle manufacturers were slowly becoming aware of the importance played in pulling in cold fresh air not just for performance but fuel economy increases as well.

In the decade to follow the manufacturers to keep up with the increasing demands for better gas mileage and lower emissions adapted factory cold air induction systems that worked very well. In my opinion the newer your vehicle is the less you will need an aftermarket cold air induction kit.

Fuel injected vehicles from the late 80s and early 90s seem to have the most to gain from these aftermarket cold air induction systems. Again this is just my opinion and your results will vary depending on the year make and model of your vehicle and the design of your factory air induction system.

For more of the latest posts to this blog you can visit this next link that brings you to a summary page of the latest articles from this page about cold air induction kits. You can also visit last week’s post that talks about standard automotive air filter maintenance.

Auto Parts

Auto parts careers do not usually pay well at the entry level. But if someone has the time and patience not only can this be a fun and rewarding job that can eventually pay well. This is a career that is an excellent choice for those who know about cars but would rather not perform the physical work on them.

Although you may not have to get dirty by turning wrenches a lot of the knowledge required to be in the auto parts business is shared with the knowledge required to be an auto repair technician. Where I work I often discuss highly technical matters with the auto parts counter person.

In fact our parts manager talks to so many technicians throughout the day that she has become quite knowledgeable about the automobile and its systems. She is also on the cutting edge of likely solutions to many different auto repair problems because she gets to see firsthand trends in repairs and failed parts.

As an example although she is a smart lady it doesn’t take an expert to figure out that she has bought 10 or 15 egr valves in the last month for Cummings diesel engines. She responds to this repair trend by stocking an EGR valve on the shelf and replacing it whenever it is dispatched. So now when we need an exhaust gas recirculation valve there is no waiting and the vehicles are up and running quickly.

Other auto parts careers

Working in aftermarket parts distribution is another option for someone who likes cars but does not want to work on them. The word aftermarket refers to a network of businesses that supply replacement auto parts to independent service shops and local dealerships.

A lot of these aftermarket parts distribution centers carry extremely large inventories of many different replacement parts. Warehouse distributors serve as a large distribution center and sell these parts and supplies to shops and driveway mechanics.

Car Parts

Some parts stores focus on individual or walk-in customers. These businesses offer the do it yourself driveway mechanic not only parts but also in some cases advice and testing of suspected failed components. If you take a starter motor into an auto zone in most cases they will be able to bench test the part and determine whether it needs to be replaced.

There are many auto parts career opportunities available in the aftermarket parts distribution network. Companies are constantly searching for knowledgeable people to represent and sell their auto parts and products. For example a sales representative working for an aftermarket parts manufacture should have a good knowledge of the company’s products.

This sales representative can often assist the shop that it deals with in training so that everyone using their products and replacement parts is properly trained and informed. As an example the local aftermarket parts supplier that supplies our shop also holds auto repair clinics once a month after work from 6 to 9. Not only do they provide snacks but they also bring in specialists to discuss certain auto repair topics.

In fact at the last auto repair clinic the local tool man came by and gave us a demonstration of an inexpensive auto scanner that did a nice job. Auto parts careers are perfect for people that enjoy being around the automobile but may not be into the busted knuckles and grease under the fingernails that comes with being an auto mechanic. For more of the latest posts to this website stop by and visit the auto repair information blog.

Honda Power Mirror

Power mirror problems are quite common because these automotive parts are exposed to the elements as well as stick out from the vehicle and are subject to impact damage. Factory original replacement power mirror parts can be very expensive.

Although I am not a supporter of cheap aftermarket automotive parts this is one area of the vehicle that I will make an exception. Listed below will be some of the most commonly searched for replacement power mirror parts such as the master power switch and the complete mirror motor assembly itself.

The nice thing about these systems is that they are very similar between car lines and even models. A VW electric mirror system is not that different from the one installed on my Pontiac Grand Prix. Before we get to replacing parts let’s discuss some of the more common power mirror problems.

Power mirror parts problems

Power Mirror Switch

Some power mirror parts that I see the most failure in would be the master control switch and stripped nylon gears on the electrically operated motor. In the case of my old Pontiac Grand Prix the power master switch is located on the armrest of the driver side door panel.

With the way that the roof is designed anytime it rains and I crack the driver side window water drips off of the roof line and directly into the power mirror master switch. After a few years of this happening to switch itself which is rather delicate compared to the other switches on the vehicle can become corroded and provide intermittent operation.

In some cases you are able to disassemble the switch and clean the electrical contacts. But again this switch is made rather delicate and sometimes the disassembling of the switch will lead to eventual replacement of it. The tiny springs and contacts can get lost and in some cases the plastic will just break apart and you will not be able to put it back together.

Power mirror not working

In many cases when you operate the power mirror master switch you can hear the motor running but the glass doesn’t move. The motor controls the movement of the glass in most cases with a series of small nylon gears. If the mirror is binding then the nylon gears will start to slip and eventually the little teeth will wear off.

VW Power Mirror

Back in the old days they used to offer overhaul kits and we use to replace the gears and motors as necessary. Nowadays it is more common that the manufacturers and aftermarket companies will offer a complete replacement that includes the new glass, the housing and all internal parts including a new motor.

In my opinion this is really the way to go using the aftermarket power mirror parts in a complete assembly. In most cases power mirror assemblies whether they be driver-side or passenger-side are relatively easy to replace. On many models you may have to remove the door panel to gain access to the retaining bolts.

Having a properly operating power mirror assembly is more than just a convenience. When properly adjusted these mirrors give you a view of what’s happening around you with simple eye movement to the left or right. When you have power mirror problems and you’re not able to adjust them on the fly you can have an increase in the area that you can’t see. These are most commonly known as blind spots. These blind spots can get you into trouble when you are switching lanes on the freeway.

If you are interested in more auto repair information articles this next link will take you to the blog’s home page. You can review more of my latest posts and I usually add new ones about once a week. Visit the auto repair information blog from this page about power mirror problems.

Digital automotive meter

The automotive meter is one of the most versatile tools used to diagnose automotive electrical problems. It is also the tool that I use the most to verify failed electrical auto parts.

By verifying that an electrical part has failed you are assured that the nonrefundable purchase will not be in vain. In most cases automotive electrical parts are not returnable.

The auto multimeter can be used to test direct current and alternating current. This inexpensive handy tester can also be used to test resistance, continuity and in some cases can provide engine RPMs via an inductive pickup.

Some of the more expensive units will even include a temperature probe that provides valuable and accurate Fahrenheit or Celsius readings.

On older vehicles, this electrical tester can be used to measure duty cycle, pulse width and diode condition. All it takes is selecting the proper test from the control knob, and this is usually covered quite extensively in the supplied documentation that comes with the automotive meters.

Types of automotive meters

Fluke Multimeter

Multimeters are available with either analog or digital displays. Although analog meters were very popular just a few years ago, the digital meter has become the go to standard of the auto repair industry.

Digital voltmeters do not use a sweeping needle or a scale to display the measurements. Instead they display the measurement digitally on the automotive meter itself.

Digital meters have a high input impedance usually at lease 10 Meg ohms. Metered voltage for resistance tests is well below 5 V, reducing the risk of damage to sensitive components and delicate computer circuits.

A digital multimeter also gives quite an exact reading and one that is not dependent on the view of the needle against a scale that could be hard to read.

Digital meters can have either an auto range feature in which the tester automatically selects the appropriate scale. On some of the automotive electrical testers, you will have to select the range manually.

In either case, you should be familiar with the ranges and the different settings available on the particular automotive multimeter that you are using. To designate particular ranges and readings, testers display a prefix before the reading or range. Example: MV stands for Milli Volts

If the meter has a setting for amps this means the readings will be given in milliamps or thousandths of an amp. As an example when using a tester with an auto range feature, make sure you know the range being used by the meter. There is a big difference between 10 ohms and 10,000 ohms.

After the test range has been selected the meter is connected to the circuit in the same way as if it were an integral part of the circuit. Some auto repair testers also feature a minimum and maximum function. This function displays the average voltage recorded during the time of the test.

This feature is valuable when checking sensors or when looking for electrical intermittent. Using the recording functions, you can pinpoint a high and low of the voltage reading along with the total average of the test.

Graphing automotive meters

Graphing Auto Meter

One of the latest trends and diagnostic tools is a graphing digital automotive meter. This test equipment displays readings, over time, very similar to a lab scope.

The graph displays the minimum and maximum readings on an easy-to-read graph. By observing the graph, a mechanic can view any undesirable changes or spikes in the circuit being monitored.

Intermittent failures that cause spikes can be some of the hardest problems to find in automotive diagnostics. The graphing digital multimeter provides a record of operation that makes it easier to pick out the spikes or problems in the circuit.

My fluke meter is one of my most used tools. Learning the proper operation of this important test equipment is, what can set you apart from the other mechanics. Your customers and family will also learn to value your pinpoint accuracy when it comes to diagnosing automotive electrical parts.

Online Auto Parts

What about the auto parts counter person. In a previous post I sent a little respect out to the auto repair mechanics of the world.

This led my friend to feel slighted, as his department was completely ignored during my previous post.

So in the interests of fair play this post is about the automotive part specialist.  A parts counter person can have several different duties  and is commonly called a materials person or specialist.

These dedicated people are found in nearly all car dealerships, as well as both retail and wholesale auto parts stores.

They sell auto parts directly to the customer and issue materials and supplies to car repair mechanics in both body shops and automobile service centers.

My friend, Jim M who is a parts counter person is friendly, professional, and very efficient when working with mechanics and customers.

About automotive part specialists

This career is an excellent alternative for those who know about cars but would rather not work on them. Much of the knowledge required to be a technician is also required for a parts specialist. However a counter person will require a few additional skills that a technician can survive without.

Most automotive parts people acquired the sales and customer service skills needed to be successful, primarily through on-the-job experience or training.

They may also gain the necessary technical knowledge on the job or through educational programs and practical experience.

Automotive parts personnel must be flexible

Depending on the store the common duties associated with the position may also include delivery of auto parts.

As well as purchasing a variety of supplies, stocking shelves and maintaining satisfactory inventory levels. They also have to adapt to servicing the needs of both old and newer car owners.

Paperwork responsibilities in the automotive parts department can also include preparing purchase orders, scheduling deliveries, assisting in the receipt and storage of materials and supplies, as well as maintaining a relationship with all vendors on the supply side.

An understanding of automotive terminology, as well as how these complicated high tech systems function is also a valuable skill for any good parts counter person.

Did I mention that car mechanics could be tough customers? Well we can and the parts people have to roll with it.

As far as my friend in the auto parts business goes everybody that has had the pleasure of being served by him appreciates his level of dedication.

And if there is one thing that stands out about Jimmy Mayhews more than anything else, is his ability to deliver the correct auto part the first time. This is why his customers turn into raving fans.

A brief understanding of your stock air intake system should be reviewed before you make this purchase and this modification.

The factory air intake system was designed by engineers to be efficient, and also quiet so that it would appeal to most drivers. Air induction components consist of the intake manifold; throttle body assembly, ductwork, air filter and air cleaner housing. Depending on the application, parallel air ducts may also be used to aid in silencing the air induction noise.

On systems that use mass airflow control, the integrity of the ductwork is extremely important. This is because a leak downstream of the mass airflow sensor will cause the engine to draw in UN metered air. As a result the air fuel ratio will become to lean. This can result in engine damage over a long-term situation.

When checking for air leaks on this type of system, look for in properly installed rigid ductwork and cracks in the flexible air intake hoses. While the condition of the intake plumbing may not be critical to mixture balance on speed density systems, missing or damaged ductwork or hoses can cause other performance problems.

For example, a leaking or damaged duct will allow the air intake system to draw in hot under Hood air, resulting in higher combustion chamber temperatures. This can not only cause spark knock but can cause excessive NOX emissions, which may prevent your vehicle from passing inspection or smog checks.

Understanding the layout of your factory installed air induction system will help make the modifications or the adding of a cold air intake system less problematic. After the installation of your k&n or other brand aftermarket high performance air intake system, you will want to monitor engine performance as well as fuel economy. Also if your check engine light comes on, directly after the installation of this new system. You want to do further research or visit the k&n website to find out if there are any other additional modifications required. You will also want to double-check your installation to assure that no air leaks have developed.

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Cold air intakes and free shipping at AutoAnything.com

My website has a new page posted that explains the history and operation of electronic fuel injection .

The Most Famous Mud Flaps

The most iconic of these truck and car accessories characters is simply known as “The Mud Flap Girl”. We’ve all seen her before: She’s the buxom silver silhouette of a long-legged beauty lounging with one leg provocatively crossed over the other, hair blowing in the wind. Bill Zinda of Wiz Enterprises in Long Beach, California, created this famous character to promote his line of truck and auto accessories and based the character upon a famous model named Leta Laroe.

Another famous character to make an appearance on these truck and car accessories is Yosemite Sam pointing his two cartoon pistols with a caption beneath declaring, “Back Off!” or, “All Fired Up”. Other Warner Brother characters have also made appearances, such as a frightened Daffy Duck and an overly upset Tweety Bird.

These mud flap characters are so engrained in our psych that they have gone beyond truck and car accessories and began appearing in commercials together. One famous commercial created for the Superbowl in 2006 had the Mud Flap Girl and Yosemite Sam driving away in a Honda Ridgeway.

Sadly, it appears that both of these figures have been targeted by legislation, when officials in Arizona tried to pass a ban on the two icons on the grounds of political correctness (one promoting sex and the other promoting gun violence). For the time being, the legislation on these truck and auto accessories has been struck down.

As long as that law doesn’t pass, you can find quality auto accessories and mud flaps that can have anything on them from your favorite sports team logo to the picture of your dog.

Self-expression isn’t a reason to sacrifice quality auto accessories anymore. You can find many manufacturers who can produce a mud flap to your vehicle and personality type. Whether you want a skull and crossbones or the Ghostbusters logo, mud flaps can be created with top-of-the-line materials to let you “keep on truckin’”.

The most popular use of custom mud flaps nowadays are for company vehicles. If you’ve ever been caught behind a large semi on the highway, or maybe stuck in traffic behind a moving van, you may have noticed that mud flaps are an effective advertising tool. Most companies spend a little extra in this truck and auto accessory to manipulate their vehicles to carry the company name and phone number on mud flaps.

More than mere truck and auto accessories, mud flaps can be a unique form of showing off who you are or acting as a clever bit of advertising. Never before have truck and car accessories been so interesting, versatile and amusing while it protects!

Truck Accessories to consider

Truck options don’t just stop at what you get from the dealer. Accessories can turn your working vehicle into something enjoyable and pleasant to drive all the time. But do you know what accessories you can add to your truck to get the most out of it? Your heavy-duty Chevy or Ford might be in need of a nerf bar or a rear spoiler.

Even older trucks could use some help with vehicle accessories, like a new dash kit to give your truck a fresh look. For more great information on where I get my truck and car accessories. My single favorite upgrade that I have done on my own truck is explained here on my ipod truck intergration page.

Begin with custom car accessories like the Sherwood Dash Thirty-Four Piece Dash Kit for your dashboard to add a wooden accent to your interior. If you are willing to spare no expense to upgrade your interior, you can go with the Laurence Gartel Signature Series Dash Art that retails at $1300 US and up. Each of these dashes is one of a kind and comes with a signed certificate of authenticity.

Next, choose quality auto accessories parts for your Baby Bentley, such as the Mopar OEM AM/FM 6-CD changer/MP3 Player and DVD Navigation Radio. These multi-faceted radios come with a color digital display which uses GPS technology to guide you turn-by-turn to any location in the United States or Canada. The unit also comes equipped with Sirius Satellite Radio technology. You can take advantage of this feature if you have a subscription to Sirius and the right antenna. This amazing system can set you back a cool two or three grand.

If you want to add satellite radio such as Sirius to your car, you will need a few special auto accessories parts first. Mopar sells an OEM Chrysler 300 Sirius Satellite Radio kit for $350. This system comes with a discreet antennae and receiver you hardwire to your radio. The cost does not include the subscription to Sirius, which will run around $12.95 a month.

More Auto Accessories Parts For Your Baby

A great radio needs a great sound system. The Kicker Subwoofer Kit (estimated $500 US) will give you strong booming base. Double that with Kicker Premium Front and Rear Speakers (estimated $280 US), and you will have the envy of all custom car accessories.

Throw in either an All Sales Flame Rearview Mirror ($90 US) or All Sales Polished Billet Oval Rear View Mirror ($80 US), and DUB Custom Edition Floor Mats ($80 US for set) for those finishing touches.

The exterior of your Chrysler 300 should be treated as much with quality auto accessories parts as the interior. Installing an E&G Classics “Phantom” Style Grille for $800 US would turn heads with its stainless steel design. However, this luxury item only fits the 2005 and 2006 models of the Chrysler 300.

A silver Xenon 6-piece Fascia Auto Body kit will have your car looking sleek and sporty for around $1800 US. Add on a Vertical “Lambo” door kit from JT Auto Style to make sure you avoid dings and scratches when opening your doors in tight spots. Both these custom auto accessories need professional skills to install and some minor body adjustments for a perfect fit. Remember, not all of the best deals are found at your local dealership. Visit a few auto accessories parts stores and look online for great deals before you spend money on the first item to catch your eye.

For more information on genuine i pod car accessories give our main web site a visit. For the lowest prices and fastest delevery on body kits and car parts visit the online car parts page.

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