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By Counterman
It’s been estimated that fraudulent warranty claims cost auto parts stores $600 million every year.
Those costs stem from a number of expenses that are set in motion by a return, including manually processing credits; reverse logistics and transportation; repackaging products; and additional quality-control testing to rule out major defects in materials.
The “Check the Part” campaign estimates that more than 50% of warranty returns are either brand-new or not the manufacturer’s product – which suggests that many parts professionals aren’t even looking at the item that’s being returned.
Endorsed by MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and the Auto Care Association, the campaign encourages parts professionals to follow a simple three-step process when processing warranty returns:
Open the box. Inspect the part. Verify the return. Recently, Dorman Products published a return guide for CV-joint kits.
If a customer wants to return a CV-joint kit, Dorman offers these three tips to help to determine if it’s a valid warranty claim:
Open the box and make sure the correct part is in the box. Some customers may try to return unrelated products and heavy objects as a scam. Dorman parts will be laser-etched with the part number as shown. OEM parts or parts from other manufacturers are not valid returns. Some joints come lubricated from the factory. Others have grease supplied. Grease must be installed in all cases. No joint can last without lubricant! Verify grease was present – the unit should be pretty messy when returned. If you see rust, blue discoloration or distorted components, it’s likely the joint had too little grease and thus is ineligible to be returned. Please share examples of ineligible returns on link hidden, please login to view. You can download a PDF of the return guide below:
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By NAPA
When it comes to working in the shop, personal safety should always be the top priority. Safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, even work boots are all meant to keep your body protected. It should come as no surprise that with new hybrid and electric drivetrains, there are also new safety gear requirements. Insulated tools are just the start of a well-stocked shop. There’s more to electrical safety than just owning a set of
link hidden, please login to view. This expert advice is meant to give an overview of the kinds of general
link hidden, please login to view (PPE) needed to service hybrid and electric vehicles. It is important to follow proper repair procedures for these vehicles, as described in the vehicle specific repair manual. This includes using all required PPE listed in the repair procedure with no exceptions. If you do not have ALL of the necessary PPE, DO NOT proceed with a repair, as doing so could lead to severe injury or even death. Now that you have an idea of the serious nature of vehicle high-voltage electrical systems, let’s take a look at how you can protect yourself. Personal Protection
Wearing the right personal protection gear is a must when working with electric and hybrid vehicle high-voltage systems. The electrical energy stored in a typical main traction battery pack is more than enough to kill or seriously injure a person.
In the past, wearing gloves while working on a car was usually a personal preference. Today, when working on high-voltage electrical systems, wearing gloves is mandatory. And not just one pair of gloves, but two pairs (inner and outer) are to be worn together. Just in case you are wondering, welding gloves are NOT the same as high-voltage
link hidden, please login to view. Class 0 gloves are required for protection up to 1,000 volts AC and 1,500 volts DC. One pair of rubber gloves (inner) protects against electric shock, while the leather gloves (outer) protect the rubber gloves from mechanical wear. They must be worn together in order to perform correctly. Electrical gloves
link hidden, please login to view every six months to ensure they are still capable of insulating the user from the rated voltage. Gloves will be labeled with the test date near the cuff. The exact personal protection gear needed for a repair will be spelled out in the vehicle service repair manual procedures. This may include an insulated apron,
link hidden, please login to view, insulated arm sleeves, link hidden, please login to view, arc flash face shield with neck protection, and insulated mats or blankets. These layers of protection are necessary not just for avoiding shocks, but also potential explosions like an arc flash. Tool Safety
It may seem odd to consider hand tools as part of personal protection equipment, but that is exactly the case when working with electricity. Most ordinary hand tools are made from metal, which does an excellent job conducting electricity. For servicing high-voltage electrical systems tools need to be designed in such a way that they don’t provide a path for electricity to travel to the technician, or to other vehicle components. That’s why EV tools are specially designed to protect the technician when used properly.
An EV tool set is a must-have for any technician looking to service an electric vehicle. A good start for insulated hand tools is an insulated screwdriver set, an
link hidden, please login to view and an link hidden, please login to view. Electric vehicle tools used for diagnostics need to handle higher voltages, like this link hidden, please login to view. For repairs where the battery pack must be removed, special care must be taken due the extreme weight involved. A link hidden, please login to view is the proper way to lower and transport a hybrid or electric vehicle battery pack. You wouldn’t pull an engine out of a car without the proper lifting equipment, so give the same respect to a heavy traction battery pack. Work Space Safety
Normally, when a car is being worked on in a service bay, there is little danger to fellow technicians. But that isn’t the case with a modern electric or hybrid vehicle. Whenever the high-voltage electrical system on one of these vehicles is exposed, proper notification must be given to those working in the area. Place
link hidden, please login to view and link hidden, please login to view around the vehicle whenever the high voltage electrical system is being serviced. This warns other technicians that there is an electrical shock hazard in the shop, and to keep their distance. You may also place an electrical warning sign on the vehicle to signal to everyone in the shop to stay away. Part of your workspace safety gear must be an
link hidden, please login to view. If a technician suffers an electrical accident while working on a vehicle, anyone attempting to help them is also in danger of electric shock. An insulated safety hook must be used to separate the victim from the electrical source. The last tip for work space safety is to never work on an electric or hybrid vehicle alone. Always let another technician or coworker know you are working on a high-voltage electrical system, and to check in on you periodically. Training Is The Key To Safety
Working on hybrid and electric vehicle high voltage systems requires meticulous procedures and extensive training. While there are plenty of dangers when working on internal combustion vehicles, many of the safety procedures surrounding those vehicles have been known for decades. As EV and hybrid drivetrain become more mainstream, so will their service safety procedures.
Tackling hybrid and electric vehicle high-voltage system repairs isn’t impossible, but there must be dedication to proper training. If you are a technician (or are wanting to become a technician), and are looking for electric vehicle service training,
link hidden, please login to view can help. NAPA Auto Tech offers a wide variety of convenient, cost-effective ways to become an automotive professional. In addition to eLearning and instructor-led training, NAPA Auto Tech offers hands-on and seminar-style classes for almost every make and model to help technicians keep their skills up to date. Photos courtesy of Brian Medford.
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By NAPA
You might know how to check the fuel level, but do you know how to check fuel pressure? There’s a handy gauge on the dashboard that tells you how much fuel is in the gas tank, but if that fuel isn’t reaching the engine under enough pressure, a mechanical failure could be brewing. Let’s take a look at the process necessary to check fuel pressure.
What Does Low Fuel Pressure Mean? link hidden, please login to view
If fuel can’t reach the injector with enough force to atomize the fuel, then the engine won’t run right. More often than not low fuel pressure means a
link hidden, please login to view. A bad fuel pump might limp along for a little while, but eventually it won’t build enough pressure to feed the engine. How To Check Fuel Pressure Using A Fuel Pressure Gauge
To check fuel pressure, you will need a
link hidden, please login to view (also called a fuel system pressure tester). Make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area, as some fuel fumes may escape during the procedure. Turn off the engine. Open the hood. Locate the fuel rail. You may need to remove the engine cover for access. Locate the Schrader valve on the fuel rail. This is where the fuel pressure will be tested. Remove the cap from the fuel rail Schrader valve. Attach the fuel pressure tester, making sure the connection is tight. If the fuel pressure tester has a pressure relief hose, route it to a proper container to capture the released fuel. A link hidden, please login to view makes a perfect catch container, and the fuel can then be used later. Turn the ignition switch to “on,” but do not start the engine. The fuel pump will pressurize the fuel system, and you will be able to read the fuel pressure gauge. To test the fuel pressure with the engine running, leave the fuel pressure gauge attached, but place it where it will not contact any of the rotating engine accessories (fan, fan belt, pulleys, etc), and ensure the gauge will not fall due to engine vibration. You may wish to have an assistant hold the fuel pressure gauge.
Start the engine, and observe the fuel pressure gauge. Refer to a link hidden, please login to view for fuel pressure specifications. Once you have taken the fuel pressure reading, shut off the engine. With the pressure relief hose secured to a container, release the fuel pressure from the gauge. Properly dispose of the released fuel or reuse it. Disconnect the fuel pressure gauge from the Schrader valve on the fuel rail. Wipe up any fuel that has spilled, and dry the spill area thoroughly. Place the cap back on the Schrader valve. Replace the engine cover, if it was removed. Close the hood. How To Check Fuel Pressure Using A Diagnostic Tool
Wondering how to check fuel pressure without gauge access? Checking fuel pressure using an OBD diagnostic tool can perform this vehicle test. The exact procedure will vary based on the manufacturer. Refer to the user manual for instructions on how to view live data using the OBD tool.
In the case of the
link hidden, please login to view, start at the Diagnostic Menu and select the “View Data” option. The tool will scan for available parameter identifications (PID) that can be read. Once the tool has read all the PIDs, it will prompt the user to “Select Data to View.” Choose “Entire Data List” for a readout of all the discovered PIDs. In that list should be a line called “FUEL PRES” or a similar term. That diagnostic reading is the current fuel pressure. For those who are more tech savvy, there are smartphone apps that can connect directly to a third-party
link hidden, please login to view. These apps display the real-time information flowing through the onboard diagnostic system. Information like engine temperature, transmission fluid temperature, fuel pressure and oil pressure are commonly available, but will depend on the app. Monitoring Fuel Pressure
If you are the kind of driver who prefers to keep a constant eye on what’s going on under the hood, consider installing a
link hidden, please login to view. There are a wide variety of gauge styles to match your interior, while also delivering needed information. You can keep an eye on fuel pressure, oil pressure, oil temperature and more with an link hidden, please login to view. If you have a performance vehicle or work vehicle, keeping an eye on engine vitals can help stop a problem before it starts. You can use a mechanical gauge attached directly to the fuel system under the hood, or a digital gauge in the cabin that uses a sending unit.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What Are The Symptoms Of Low Fuel Pressure?
Common low fuel pressure symptoms:
Vehicle will not start or keeps stalling Long engine cranking time Hesitation when accelerating Engine is low on power Check engine light is one (engine lean, misfire OBD-II codes stored) What Are Symptoms Of A Bad Fuel Pressure Regulator?
If the fuel pressure readings are erratic or not within the specification, those may be symptoms of a bad
link hidden, please login to view. What Are Symptoms Of A Bad Fuel Pressure Sensor?
If the fuel pressure sensor has gone bad, you may have an illuminated check engine light, trouble getting the engine to start due to low fuel pressure, or reduced engine power.
If your engine isn’t running right or the check engine light is on, then a fuel pressure check can be a good starting point for diagnosis. As you can see, the process is pretty straightforward with the right diagnostic tool. Your
link hidden, please login to view and NAPAonline carry a wide variety of link hidden, please login to view to fit your needs. Don’t feel like leaving the house or don’t have the time? Order on NAPAonline to get
link hidden, please login to view on 160,000+ products. However you choose to shop, make sure to take advantage of link hidden, please login to view to receive 1 Point for every dollar you spend. When you earn 100 Points, you automatically get $5 off your next purchase! Don’t feel like testing fuel pressure yourself or just don’t have time? You can also swing by your local
link hidden, please login to view for a fuel pressure check. Their ASE Certified technicians have the right tools and training to diagnose any fuel related issues that your car, truck or SUV experience. Photo courtesy of
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By NAPA
The NAPA Network supplies adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts with the best RV cleaning products to keep their home away from home fresh and road ready. Whether you drive a large recreational vehicle with its own engine or tow-behind camper trailers, including Airstreams, pop-ups and fifth wheels, we have you covered. And of course, NAPAonline and NAPA Auto Parts stores carry
link hidden, please login to view. To start off, browse through products specifically designed for
link hidden, please login to view. Suck up any loose debris, dirt and pet hair using a high-powered link hidden, please login to view from popular brands like Craftsman, Armor All and Milwaukee. Keep in mind, even the best vehicle vacuum leaves behind crumbles wedged into crevices. To grab up as much as possible, utilize a link hidden, please login to view that can squeeze into hard-to-reach gaps. A cleaning gel features a non-stick, residue-free formula that leaves no mess behind, making it simple to clean your vehicle’s surfaces without the need for water or additional cleaning agents. link hidden, please login to viewIf you are shopping for the best products for RV interior spring cleaning, you can’t go wrong with
link hidden, please login to view. An RV is jam packed with surfaces that are coated with sticky handprints, food residue, grimy gear and pet hair. This multi-surface cleaner does not contain bleach, and is safe to use on vinyl and upholstery fabrics. And, after being applied, it will prevent mold and mildew from forming, which is great for families spending time at the beach or lake. Speaking of surfaces, an RV camper is filled with glass surfaces from appliances to bathroom fixtures to windows inside and out. Our NAPA experts highly recommend grabbing a bottle or two of the
link hidden, please login to view. If foam glass cleaner is your thing, go for the ammonia-free link hidden, please login to view that works on windows, mirrors and more. And finally, no bucket of RV cleaning products would be complete without air fresheners. Place
link hidden, please login to view underneath seats or inside cabinets and drawers. This vehicle deodorizer works on smoke, pet smells and food odors that are difficult to remove. For a quick refresh, stock up on a link hidden, please login to view from Chemical Guys. Don’t forget, participating NAPA Auto Parts stores offer a convenient
link hidden, please login to view option, so you can get back on the road in no time. And, NAPA offers even more savings with link hidden, please login to view. Earn 1 Point for every $1 you spend. Collect 100 Points, and automatically get $5 off your next order. Get Your RV Road Ready For Spring
At NAPA, we realize you bought an RV camper to spend more time outdoors, so let’s head outside. To start off your kit of RV exterior cleaning products, our experts recommend purchasing a solution to tackle splattered bugs, road tar and bird droppings. Because your recreational vehicle is massive, and you are likely to need to complete many washes in a season, go for the 32-ounce concentrate of
link hidden, please login to view by Sea Foam. This pre-soak eliminates the need for hard scrubbing, and is safe on vehicle paint, clear coats, gel coats, metal, glass, mirrors, outdoor carpet, plastic and vinyl. Follow up this pre-wash application with a true RV exterior cleaner, like a
link hidden, please login to view from Griot’s Garage. The ultra-slick formula offers a versatile application, including a traditional hand-applied bucket wash or with a foam sprayer. After doing all this intense spring cleaning, protect your hard work with the best RV wax that is safe on fiberglass. Our experts recommend, link hidden, please login to view, formulated specifically to remove oxidation from fiberglass or painted surfaces. The glossy shine provides unbeatable protection from harsh UV rays. Apply by hand or with an electric buffer. Need to stock up on the best RV roof cleaner? For RV roof cleaning, grab a bottle of Meguiar’s
link hidden, please login to view. It cleans, penetrates and rejuvenates nonpainted vinyl and rubber surfaces like new. Then, work your way down to any pull-out awnings. link hidden, please login to view should do the trick. It works on both vinyl and canvas materials. And finally, keep a can of link hidden, please login to view on hand. Of course, spring cleaning an RV is only one part of the long list of maintenance items for this rewarding passion. The NAPA Network carries the
link hidden, please login to view you need, from a link hidden, please login to view to link hidden, please login to view and link hidden, please login to view. And check out these detailed guides by the NAPA Experts on link hidden, please login to view and link hidden, please login to view. Photo courtesy of
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