The dashboard of a modern vehicle is a graphical communication platform that informs the driver/owner of the condition of the vehicle. But drivers out there do not seem to understand the meanings of the images shown on the dashboard. One of such graphical signs that is often misunderstood by many vehicle owners and motorists is the “Service Engine Soon” sign. This is usually believed to mean that the said vehicle needs basic lube service. That, however, isn’t quite correct.

Service Engine Soon sign, just as CHECK ENG sign or the sign of a drawn engine block simply means that the vehicle’s ECM, commonly called the Brain-Box, has noticed a developing problem in the vehicles’s “Powertrain” (which is essentially made up of the engine and transmission). And any time the vehicle’s computer observes an untoward happening in either or both of these two major areas of the automobile, it lights up the Service Engine Soon or CHECK ENG icon on the dashboard.

The right thing to do when the Service Engine Soon comes on is to take the vehicle immediately for a scan. A competent diagnostician, after using a modern tool that can effectively engage with the vehicle’s on-board diagnostic system, will be able to interpret the codes pulled from the diagnosis and recommend what should be done to get the vehicle back to its rightful state.

I am a regular reader of your column in SUNDAY PUNCH. I want you to advise me on  the proprietary of importing LPG powered cars for use in Nigeria. I have seen some of them on the Internet and love them. I live in Ile – Ife, Osun State. Bisi Olawoyin, bisiolawoyin@gmail.com

The challenge of LPG powered vehicles is where to fill the gas when you need to refill. And also, the technical knowledge of the technicians that will maintain it. But they are very good on fuel consumption and also good for the environment.

Let me start by thanking you for the insightful information you give about cars. I drive a Toyota Camry 1998 model. I want to know how long I need to warm the car before driving it either in the morning or evening. Or do I simply drive without warming it. Besides, how often can a timing belt be replaced? Thanks you. Tony Memesi. 08023203xxx

All you need is just enough time for the engine oil to circulate and lubricate all the necessary parts of the engine internally. The timing belt needs to be replaced every sixty thousand miles, unless the belt is wet/soaked with oil, then you need to replace it ASAP and fix where the oil is coming from.

Thank you for always taking time to attend to questions from readers. Please, I came across a hand-like car scanner, is it different from the one you always refer people to? 08023077xxx

It is possible the scanner is different from the professional ones I usually talk about. But most scanners will read and diagnose most vehicles in a generic mode, provided it has the right communication protocol for that vehicle.

Sir, I want to find out why any problem affecting my 2001 Toyota Camry does not often show on the dash board. This also happens even when the alternator is not charging well. Thank you sir.

If the charging system of your vehicle is not functioning, it will not show on the scanner as a code unless it affects the functions of the sensors. But you can use the scanner to check the charging rate of the alternator; through the data stream screen.

Thank you very much sir for your very valuable column. I live in Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State. Please, do you have a workshop close to where I stay so that they can look at my Toyota Corolla 1999/2000 model? It’s making some sounds that I don’t understand. Thank you very much sir. Ngozi, 08032313xxx

We don’t presently have any location in Ekiti State. But we are planning to kick-start a quick-service and light maintenance/repair project in Akure soon.

Thank you so much for your efforts on issues related to automobile. I just replaced my BMW 1.5 model with a complete second-hand engine. It commenced work immediately it was installed. I want to know what else I need to do on the car. Toyin Jayeoba, 07039814xxx

All you need is a good maintenance of the vehicle, periodically.

The steering oil of my vehicle was leaking and I took it to an auto workshop in Ladipo for repair. But when the mechanic was loosening the steering rag, there was one nut he couldn’t loosen. So, he called a welder to cut the nut. After repair, I noticed that he constructed four nuts to hold the steering rack. Now, when I am driving, the steering shakes and lets out a noise in motion. What do I do because I am disturbed? Henry Akomas.

What he did is very dangerous, those bolts and nuts could come loose at any time, that particular part “Rack and Pinion” is under a lot of vibration. If it becomes loose, you could lose steering control.

Please, how do I get the coil of Opel Twinsport 2005 model? I will appreciate any assistance rendered. Makinde. 08165266xxx

 You can get in-touch with Mr. Kenny in our parts department at www.automedicsafrica.com.

I just bought a Mazda Millennia 1999 model two months ago. I was told that its engine is bad and I want to replace it. I need your advice on the best one to buy. Akinyemi Akintoye, 08027546xxx.

You can get in-touch with Mr Kenny in our parts department at www.automedicsafrica.com.

I appreciate you sir. Please, I drive a Renault Espace bus 1999 model. The first four months of its use were pleasant though with compressor problem but it was rectified. Now, whenever I engage the gear, the engine shakes. Some technicians have checked the gear and engine mountain. But nothing was detected. I did a scan on the ECU and nothing was found too. Now, it revs higher than normal when it’s engaged in drive position. But after balancing the engine, the noise becomes higher with no defect on the exhaust. Please what can I do to solve this problem? Adigun Ademola, 08137029xxx

You did not state the type of transmission, whether it’s auto or manual. However, I believe the clutch system of the transmission is worn out, whether it’s auto or manual.

I want to buy a BMW 325i and want to know if you can fix it for me.08022769xxx.

We fix all brands of vehicles.

Sir, anytime I am on motion and apply the brake, my Mitsubishi Galant, 2001 model car vibrates (worse in the front wheels).I have just changed the four faulty shock absorbers but to no avail. What is the solution sir? Dele Ajayi, 08063044xxx

Replace or resurface the brake discs, and complement with new brake pads.

I drive a Nissan Primera 2.0 1993 model. Whenever it passes through a small pool of water (not up to an inch), it will jerk vigorously and go off.

Also in the morning, it is hard to start. It jerks vigorously and only starts after five attempts. The plugs, carburetor and oil filter have been changed. Emmanuel Brown, belovedyb@gmail.com, 08053562xxx

Try and replace the distributor cap, with new o-ring around the cap.

I have always been a lover of Mercedes Benz because of its durability. I am interested in buying a 2005 Mercedes C230 Kompressor. I want to know if it’s a good car that is easy to maintain or what are the things I should look out for. Also, I heard that our petrol only has only 91 per cent Octane in it. For this, I want to know if it is advisable to use an octane booster for a 2005 Mercedes C230 Kompressor in Nigeria or not. Your kind response will be greatly appreciated. God bless. Ukeme Mathew.

Mercedes Benz cars are very durable if it is well maintained. Yes, you can use octane booster provided it is good.

I am much enlightened on auto vehicle problems reading your column in SUNDAY PUNCH every week. I am a new resident in Benin-City. Recently, I purchased a Toyota RAV4 Jeep, 2006 model. Having run 10,000km distance, I intend to service it. Is there any of your Automedics workshops in Benin? Akeem, 08035902755 

 We don’t have any workshop in Benin City at the moment.

Please, I drive a Toyota Camry 96 model. A light always appears on the dashboard, showing ‘‘O/D Off.” I want to know if it is normal. Thank you. Caleb Abata.

If the light shows and says “O/D Off” your transmission will not go into the last gear, which will cause your engine to burn more gas than normal. You always want that light not to show on your dashboard; that is when your O/D is on.

My Honda Civic 2006 only starts but does not charge. When I removed the battery head, the engine goes off. All fuses have been checked and changed. The technician said light was not getting to the alternator and that it was bad. 08037091xxx.

What you are doing is very dangerous to the health of all your ECUs and sensors; because the battery is the line of defense for all the excess voltage the alternator produces. Just go ahead and replace the alternator and use the proper tool to check the charging system.

Please, what is the meaning of the ABS light that stays permanently on the dashboard of my Mercedes Benz E200 1994 coupe? Thank you. Cyprian Agbadu, cyagbadu@gmail.com

ABS stands for Antilock Brake System. When the light stays on, it means your ABS is out of commission but your normal brake will function perfectly. The only challenge is that the vehicle can skid off the road when you apply the brake in an emergency situation with force.

I am a regular reader of your column in SUNDAY PUNCH.

My Skoda Octavia Ambiente 1.6 2001 model shows intermittent poor idle problems. The counter revs up and then drops suddenly uncontrollably. It fluctuates erratically and this is usually associated with high fuel consumption with a great noise. Whenever it revs up (either on motion or in a traffic situation) and I switched off ignition, I find it very difficult to start the car and this may take up to 10-45mins (or more) to start again with associated fuel smell during consecutive car start. I have cleaned the throttle body by spraying injector/ car cleaner. When the car engine eventually starts, the exhaust brings out a dusty-smoky and fuel smell which disappears after a little motorway run and the revs get normalised before the fluctuation starts again. When I switched off the engine to start again, I find it difficult to start the engine and this always take up to 20mins or more.

I have changed the fuel pump but problem persists. What do you advice me to do?

Aina Abiodun, Ilorin, Kwara State, ainaabiodun@yahoo.com,08032227xxx

My honest opinion is to first run a scan on the engine, before you do any other repair on the car again. The result of it will guide the technician on what to do. Though I believe the problem could be from faulty idle control solenoid or vacuum leak on the engine. You can call this chap I mentor in Ilorin. His name is Lanre, while his number is 07067718297.

The dashboard of my car, a 1998 model Nissan Altima, displays ‘service engine soon’ light since the day I purchased it three month ago. I read your column last week in this newspaper. Please, can you give me an address of where the scanning can be done in Lagos? I hope it does not cost too much. I live at Redemption Camp, Mowe, Ogun State. Thank you. Kolapo Soyoye, kolamayowami@yahoo.com

The cost of scanning varies depending on the workshop. But the closest we have to you is inside the Lagos Television Complex in Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos.

How do you know if the alternator of a vehicle is charging? 08023077xxx

The easiest way is to use a voltmeter, but there are other methods and tools which can only be used by a proficient technician.

I intend to purchase a Nigerian used 2001 Corolla soon. I want to scan it before making payment. Do you have any scanning centre close to Agidingbi? How much will it cost me? Thanks. 08037218xxx

Yes we have one inside the Lagos Television Complex in Agidingbi, Ikeja Lagos.

Please, do you have any workshop in Ibadan? Thanks. Wale

We don’t have any workshop in Ibadan at the moment, but we will open one there in the near future. 08023420xxx

I just want to thank you so much for enlightening Nigerian car users. Reading your answers to peoples’ questions weekly has made us to have a better knowledge of vehicle maintenance. Bethel Uchegbu, Akute, and Lagos.08020898xxx

Thank you for the compliment.

Please, I want to know what is wrong with my Golf 3 car. Recently, its timing belt cut and a mechanic told me to buy a new cylinder which I did. But since I changed the cylinder, the car has not been working perfectly. I noticed that whenever I am in a gridlock for three or five minutes, the car goes off. If I try to accelerate, it will jerk. Togunbo Mayowa, truemartinternational@yahoo.com

If you did not have this problem before the repair, then the mistake was done during the repair of the cylinder head assembling. But you can run a scan on the engine.

Thank you sir for assisting us to have stress-free drive. I work and live in Ondo. I want to know which is more durable and fuel efficient between a Toyota Camry and a Toyota Avalon, both 2003 model. I intend buying either of the two. Thanks. , Anthony Dayo. 08023507xxx

Go for the Camry with a four cylinder engine.

I bought a second hand Toyota 2006 4Runner V6 recently. I have an indicator light VSC and TRAC Indicator lights showing. There is the symbol of a moving car with track showing and another symbol with CHECK. I want to know if there is any adverse effect on the car with the above indicators light showing ‘On’. How can I put off the indicators completely?

My mechanic was able to put the lights off but they started showing again two weeks ago. When I told my mechanic about it, he said d I should not worry about it. He also said he would not advise I change the Brain Box because other things could be tampered with while changing it. What is your candid advice sir?

Abodunrin Yinka, yinkabod@yahoo.com, 0802 2241xxx

Your mechanic needs more training on how to diagnose vehicles. To find out why the warning signs are on, take the vehicle to any workshop with a standard scanner and run a scan on its powertrain system. The result will guide the technician on what type of repair the vehicle needs. The ECU (Brain Box) reports back to you by turning those warning signs on when there is a problem.

I am a regular reader of your column in SUNDAY PUNCH. I have a challenge choosing between a Toyota Highlander and a Nissan Pathfinder. Please, as an expert in automobiles, I need your advice on the one to buy considering durability, fuel economy, purchase price and general maintenance cost of the two brands. Thank you.08035810xxx

Go with the Highlander.

I have been trying your number but there was no answer. I drive a Toyota Highlander 2001 Series (Ordinary). There are problems with its air-conditioning unit, the shock absorbers (front&back) and the cigarette lighter. I want to know the prices of the following parts: Condenser, compressor and evaporator for the vehicle’s A/C, the shock absorbers (front and back) and the cigarette lighter. Thank you. Adekunle. 08022329xxx

You can find help for that on our website: www.automedicsafrica.com

Sir, where can I buy engine seat (rubberlike) for my Ford Ecosport four wheel drive? K.G Salu.

You can find help for that on our website: www.automedicsafrica.com

I drive a Range Rover Freelander 2005 model (automatic). The car has been faulty since June. I changed its coils and other parts but the problems persist. Can you text me your address? Thanks. Charles, Surulere, Lagos. 08023216xxx

I am presently out of the country, but you can visit any of our locations for any type of diagnosis on your vehicle.

Please sir, I want you to kindly explain these error codes detected in my Nissan Altima.

P0302 (CYL 2 Misfire), P1065 (ECM Back Circuit), P0340 (CMP Sen/Circuit -B1).Thank you.08037871xxx

 The P0302 code means that the cylinder 2 is misfiring or is randomly misfiring. Start by checking for intake leaks and if no leaks are found the next step is to replace the spark plugs on cylinder 2. If the problem persists more tests needs to be done to diagnose the problem. When a misfire occurs, engine speed will fluctuate. If the engine speed fluctuates enough to cause the Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor signal to vary, the Engine Control Module (ECM) can determine that a misfire is occurring.

Possible Causes:

Faulty spark plug 2

Clogged or faulty fuel injector 2

Faulty ignition coil 2

Fuel injector 2 harness is open or shorted

Fuel injector 2 circuit poor electrical connection

Ignition coil 2 harness is open or shorted

Ignition coil 2 circuit poor electrical connection

Insufficient cylinder 2 compression

Incorrect fuel pressure

Intake air leak

The P0340 The Camshaft Position Sensor is an electronic device used in an engine to record the rate at which the camshaft is spinning. This information is used by the Engine Control Module to control ignition and fuel injection. The camshaft position sensor senses the retraction of camshaft (intake) to identify a particular cylinder. The camshaft position sensor senses the piston position. The sensor system consists of a rotating part, typically a disc, as well as a static part, the actual sensor.

When the engine is running, the high and low parts of the teeth cause the gap with the sensor to change. The changing gap causes the magnetic field near the sensor to change. The change in the magnetic field causes the voltage from the sensor to change.

When the crankshaft position sensor (POS) system becomes inoperative, the camshaft position sensor provides various controls of engine parts instead, utilizing timing of cylinder identification signals.

Possible causes

Faulty Camshaft Position Sensor

Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted

Camshaft Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

Faulty starter motor

Starting system circuit

Dead (Weak) battery

P1065 Battery voltage is supplied to the Engine Control Module (ECM) even when the ignition switch is turned OFF for the ECM memory function of the DTC memory, the air-fuel ratio feedback compensation value memory, the idle air volume learning value memory, etc.

Possible causes

ECM Harness power supply circuit is open or shorted

ECM Harness ground supply circuit is open or shorted

ECM may be faulty

I drive a BMW 525i. I want you to refer me to someone who is competent enough to fix this brand. I am tired of spending money to fix the car. I want to know if I can pay for a repair and get the problem fixed once and for all. The issues with my car range from a noisy engine to a bad gear box/brain box. I am not even sure if these are the only problems affecting it. I want your urgent response in this regard. Thank you. Kunle Dosunmu, kunledosunmu@gmail.com

What you need is a proper diagnosis of your vehicle. If you can visit any professional shop they will diagnose it and tell you what you need to repair it.

I want to know if I can get a fairly used Toyota Sienna 1998 model for N700, 000. 08030418xxx

I don’t sell cars so I won’t be able to say if you can get a Toyota Sienna for that price.

I appreciate you for your column on automobiles. I drive a Nissan Pathfinder 1997/8 model. From the day I bought it, ‘service engine soon’ has been on display on its dashboard. I showed it to some auto mechanics who said it was not a big deal. The car’s flow meter packed up the day I bought the car. I suspected that it was the cause of the permanent light shown on the dashboard. But the engine runs well. What do you suggest I do? Besides, what is the cost implication of the diagnosis? Thanks. Ahmed Olakunle, kunleahmed1@yahoo.co.uk, 07064360xxx

All you need to do is to run a scan on the powertrain, that will guide your technician on what to do.

The automobile battery, especially in non-heavy duty trucks whose batteries are usually designed to be 24 volts, at rest/without any load should conventionally generate 12.6 volts. Its primary functions are: one, to provide power for starting the engine; two, to provide supplementary power when the loads or electrical power demands of the vehicle exceed the capacity of the vehicle’s charging system (commonly known as the alternator). The third function is to provide temporary power when the alternator malfunctions. Besides, automobile battery provides system voltage stability.

The battery is an electro-chemical voltage storage device. And there are essentially two classes of battery: primary (batteries that are essentially non-rechargeable) and secondary (which are chargeable types like the ones in vehicles).

Broadly speaking, there are two main chemical categories of automobile batteries; wet cells, i.e. lead acid battery, and dry cells, usually maintenance-free voltage storage device.

Wet cells’ batteries’ acidity level, which defines the efficacy of that type of battery’s charging mechanism, can be checked with a contraption called the hydrometer. The wet cells battery can be charged when its acid or electrolyte has been topped or replaced.

There are some precautions to be diligently observed when maintaining a wet cells battery. Because wet cells battery emits hydrogen gas, which is highly explosive, care must be taken not to alter the battery’s vent cap with the wrong one. The consequence of such a mistake can be very catastrophic.

It must be stated, in concluding this piece on knowing your batteries, that the installation of after-market vehicle entertainment gadget/s and/or other electronic appliances can affect the general performance of the vehicle. This conflict occurs if they’re either wrongly installed (and they’re conflicting with the electrical system or draining the battery) or if they’re, like in the case of young boys who put powerful sound machines in their cars, too heavy for the original electrical power configuration that instructs the vehicle’s battery power in the first place. To avoid this frustrating situation, a battery with higher amperage with alternator of equivalent capacity must be installed.

Today’s piece is addressed to you, Mr. and Mrs. Middle-Class Nigerian. Please do not misunderstand this letter as a beggar’s call to altruism. I know you daily, naturally and indeed irritatingly, get loads of the God-will-help-you-if-you-help-me “mendicantese”. Rather, this is a call to you for a good investment opportunity that will open a new sustainable stream of income for you while you are “helping” to alleviate the ballooning problem of unemployment which is ravaging the ranks of our youths.

Far more importantly, your pecuniary investment will not only give you a viable line of business, it will go a long way to help get many of our youths out of the state of anomie that many of them are presently in.

Now let me explain in graphical terms why this call to lucre is very urgent. Many of our governments at all levels, either independently or through some sort of partnership with private sector entities, are now investing in one form of human capital development or the other. For example, the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board, in the last two and a half years, has engaged Automedics to train interested, young and unemployable graduates to acquire modern automotive maintenance/repair skills. In addition to upgrading the skills of willing roadside mechanics (many of whom are logically being chased out of their environmentally degrading workshops/villages) to be able to work on the computing technology in today’s vehicles.

States as far as Adamawa, Imo and Osun are actively running one skills acquisition/empowerment scheme or the other. And many of our youths and artisans are enthusiastically engaging in these programmes. But the missing link, as I see it, is the poor investment culture of our middle-class.

For example, we (Messrs. Automedics Limited) have trained hundreds of young persons and formerly out-dated mechanics to levels of competencies that have opened new vistas for them in the areas of self-employment and general employability. It is a fact though that not all of the beneficiaries of our training can (either through self-effort, filial help and governments-championed poverty alleviation programmes) appropriate the inherent opportunities of the two above mentioned windows of productive/economic opportunities.

And albeit, it may be fashionable (indeed many a time justifiable) to play the arm-chair critic and lambast our governments for their many failures. The truth is that in many societies where things work well there is a third leg to the tripod of wealth creation besides the governments and the consumers: which, dear readers, are you.

Maybe it’s about time I cursorily got into the specifics of what I’m canvassing you to do here: there are very knowledgeable young graduates and artisans who, if you decide to invest on, will be good “cash-cows” for you. Imagine starting a small high-street auto maintenance/repair shop (eg., a lube service centre with wheel balancing and alignment, and basic suspension and brake repair offerings to the motoring public) with, say, a 3-man team of diagnostician, mechanic and electrician with less than ten million naira and you’re monthly netting five hundred thousand naira and more from the investment.

We at the Automedics have actually gotten the concessioning of a chain of high-street locations inside the lube bay of a major oil marketing plc nationwide where this enterprise value chain of investor-cum-skilled partners-and-quality service to the motoring public can be perfected. We’ll (after matching you with these minor partners, whose, let’s say, ten to twenty percent equity in the venture will be factored on their marketable skills set) continue to technically mentor/develop them because of the Automedics brand that will help give the business respectability. And also your unemployed/underemployed spouse/partner or relations can also be gainfully engaged in the enterprise as your day-to-day onshore accounting officer. If you wish to know more about this socio-economic re-engineering concept, please send a mail to the above advertised e-mail address.

NB: The live and interactive public service Automedics radio production will commence broadcast during the evening drive-time on LOVE 104.5FM Abuja on Monday, August, 19 (today). It is initially scheduled to run on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays evenings for one hour. This motoring-public edifying service is a collaborative pro bono work between the management of the station and Automedics Limited. If you have any problem with your vehicle or you see any warning light on your automobile’s dashboard and you want to get free advice on how to resolve it in the manufacturer’s recommended way, then call in live into the programme if you’re either in Abuja, Nassarawa, Kogi or Niger state where the live interactive programme (to be anchored by one of the young graduates I trained) will be heard.

Computerised wheel balancing and laser-guided alignment, if properly done by a proficient technician, inevitably make a world of difference between having a good driving experience or otherwise.

It is , however, very important that one re-emphasises the fact that it’s always better to do computerised/dynamic balancing and laser-guided alignment instead of the “babalawo” (the wheel balancing done while a tyre is placed on a conical contraption and is manually spun by the tyre shop technician who’s trying to balance it) and the “aworawo” alignment (where the technicians are stargazing at a pair of mirrored objects manually aligned to face each other with a view to using his visual discernment as the standard of effecting the alignment. Can you just imagine the integrity of his workmanship if he’s started developing, say, cataract or other forms of failing sight?)

Good as the precision-based modern technological equipment may be, especially a laser-guided aligner, there are some conditions precedent to getting a perfect alignment job done on any vehicle. One, coil and/or leaf springs or torsion bars must be in good condition. Two, tie-rod ends and sleeves, idler and pitman arms, rack-mounting bushings, sway bar, steering linkages and steering gear must be in excellent shape.

Three, wheel bearings, wheel spindles and ball joints must be prima; four upper and lower front-and rear-control arm bushings, and stabiliser link and frame bushings must similarly be in perfect condition. Five, struts and shock absorbers, strut mountings and bearings, and shock mounting bolts and bushings too must be perfect.

If any of these suspension parts is not in perfect condition, doing an alignment on a vehicle will amount to a waste of time and money. In fact, a good tyre care shop professional must counsel the owner to first have any defective item in the above list corrected before doing the alignment.

Last year, specifically on September 29 and 30, 2012, this column held a free two-day seminar for auto technicians. It was a superlative success. We were hoping for 800 participants but the turn out on each day of the two-day event was more than 2000!

From January 2013, requests for another round of the two-day seminar have flooded in, but because I have been abroad (indeed, I wrote this piece in-flight between Atlanta, Georgia to Phoenix, Arizona in the US) for the better part of the year, we’ve not been able to settle down and plan for the repeat of the 2013 version of the Lagos Automotive Mechatronics seminar.

I have good news for those who may be interested in a repeat session of the event, which will likely be themed around the topic “Fuel Basics and Fundamentals of the EVAP sytem.” The only condition that must be met before we can seriously put up the repeat show is to get minimum of one thousand interested participants text in their names and promise to come with a copy of SUNDAY PUNCH as the “gate fee” to o8080806686. Please text your name only once.

REACTIONS TO AUTOMEDICS

I appreciate you for the wonderful job you do on this page every week. I just bought a Nissan Pathfinder 2002 model.  It shows ‘Service Engine Soon’ on the indicator lamp. I have read the car’s manual and tightened its fuel filler but no solution. What do I do? Timothy. 08136059xxx

The only way to know the cause is to run a scan on the vehicle.

I drive V.B. Mercedes which I bought in 2010. My mechanic has worked on it but I am worried about the rate at which it consumes fuel. Please, advise me on what to do. Olaniyi 08033154xxx

You need to have a proper diagnosis on the fuel system and also do a complete tune up on the car.

Sir, the shaft of my vehicle was changed not long ago but each time I turn it, it makes a noise. 08023445xxx

It depends on which side the noise is coming from, or whether the replaced CV axle is defective. You will probably need to replace both axles with new ones.

I drive a Hyundai Sonata 2004 model. It is three years old and I am the second user. What is the cost of bringing it to your workshop for a proper diagnostics? Thanks. Armstrong, 08033935xxx

You will need to bring the vehicle to our workshop for physical and electronic assessment. The cost is reasonable.

I drive a 2001 BMW 328i two doors. When driving towards a hilly place it struggles to climb through. What could be the cause? Also is it possible to change it from manual transmission to automatic. I want my wife to be driving it. Thanks.07066389xxx

If the vehicle struggles to go up any incline, it either needs a tune up, faulty engine or worn out clutch. Yes you can change from manual to automatic, but it requires you to replace the wiring harness with TCU. And it is not cheap. You might want to get another car for your wife that is automatic.

Thanks a lot for your educative reactions on Automedics. I drive a Kia Cerato which I bought four years ago. Its engine is faulty and the mechanics who worked on it did a shoddy job on it. Where can I buy a second hand engine and gear for the car? Brand new ones are expensive. Thanks, Bioku , biorajpharmltd@yahoo.com, 08038099xxx

You can contact our parts department at www.automedicsafrica.com for more enquiries on this vehicle.

I drive a Honda Accord (Baby Boy) 1998 model V6. Recently, I observed that whenever I approach a bump or speed breaker and slow down, when I’m about to accelerate, the vehicle’s light jerks and normalises afterwards.

Please tell me if this is a normal occurrence in Honda Baby boy or is  it because I try to rev up almost immediately when the engine is just beginning to gain speed? I’m beginning to think it is because of the way I drive. Thanks for your time. Olayinka Bolumole, 08038024xxx, olayinka.bolumole@subsea7.com

You either have faulty transmission, faulty TCU or worn out mounts. But I will start with the mounts first, if I were you.

I just want to commend you for your effort in educating the motoring public. I just came across your article in SUNDAY PUNCH. 0806575 8xxx

Thanks for the compliments.

I intend buying a Honda CRV (American Specs) 2003 model. Please, what can I do to achieve optimum performance on the vehicle? 08056167xxx

The only thing I can advise you to do is to take good care of it. Do the tune up when it is due, and do periodic check up on it.

I just bought a Nissan Pathfinder 2002 model. I read its manual after discovering ‘service engine soon.’ I tightened its fuel filler cap but still the situation persists. What do I do? Timothy, 08136059xxx

The “Service engine soon” is an indication of a fault within the powertrain (engine and transmission) system. It could be on the engine or transmission, but you will need to have the vehicle diagnosed by scanning it. The result of the scan will guide your technician on what to do.

Please sir, can you help me to determine the manufacturer’s tyre pressure recommended for Lexus GX 470, 2006 model below. Forty-five is currently inflated and pressure warning light is permanently on. Dimension: P264/65R17. Recommend tyre pressure: 220 kpa, 32 psi. Thanks. Mr. O. Ogunyode, Egbeda Lagos, 08121841xxx

All you have to do is follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended specification written on the sticker pasted on the driver’s side door pillar.

I just bought a Tokunbo Toyota Corolla 2009 model car two months ago. It recently shows ‘Maint Reqd’. What does it mean? 08022867xxx

The sign “Maint Reqd” means the car is due for regular maintenance service, like lube service. And the light should be reset after the service is done by the technician.

I read your article on vehicle wheel alignment. I would like to seek your recommendation on any place I could visit to have my wheels aligned.

I drive a Honda Accord, 1997 model. I recently changed all its four tyres and also did a wheel alignment in Osogbo where I stay. But I realised that ever since I did this alignment, my steering wheel has not been straight.

I have taken the vehicle to the workshop where it was worked on for more than three times. But the situation remains the same. Kindly advise me on what to do. Thanks. Babatunde Apata, apata_babatunde@yahoo.com, 08155583xxx

Unfortunately, I don’t have or know any workshop in or around Osogbo that can render such service. But I’ll instruct my PA to search our alumni’s database and let you know.

I drive a VW Jetta, 2005 model with new body shape. It is showing EPC warning and also not transmitting smoothly. Is it the gear box that is faulty? 08034732xxx

I will advise you take the car to any workshop that can competently run a scan on its powertrain. The result of the scan will guide you on what to do. Also, if anybody had worked on the engine or transmission electronics and did not do the re-adaptation process after the repair work, this could also cause the problem.

I just bought a Toyota Camry 2005 model. I discovered that whenever the AC is on, the car consumes more fuel. I once inserted a Mobil injector treatment and cleaned the nozzle but the maintenance required light was displayed on the dashboard. It did not go off until I checked the car’s manual and changed the oil. I later diagnosed it but no error was found. Please, what do I do? 08026818xxx

Your mechanic/technician is supposed to reset “Maint Req” after the service has been carried out on the car. If you use the A/C in a stop and go traffic situation and your engine is not in a perfect condition, there is tendency for it to consume fuel. Also, you might want to do a tune up on your engine, just because the engine is running smooth does not mean it is in a perfect condition.

I commend you for bringing succour to motorists. I drive a Toyota Highlander Jeep 2004 model. Check engine, track off and overheating lights are always on immediately the car is started. Whenever I move above 70kph, the steering shakes. The mechanics I consulted were unable to rectify the fault. One of them suggested that I should change the radiator. I am confused at the moment and do not want to be in a gridlock to know the extent of the problem. Can you please send me your workshop address in Ojokoro? Adegun, 08032075xxx

Our address at Ojokoro is the NIPCO petrol station at Meiran Bus Stop along Lagos-Abeokuta Express way. But when you get there, let them check the steering and suspension parts’ integrity before any alignment and balancing. Also, run a scan on the powertrain system. The result of the scan will guide and reveal why the “check engine light” is on.

I drive a Hyundai Sonata 2011 model.  Coming from a trip from Ilorin to Lagos, I discovered the car was not moving well when I got to Ibadan. I got a mechanic to check it and he discovered the gear oil had leaked out. He said it showed that the gear pump was bad. Could this be true? 08089444xxx

The only way the oil will leak out of the transmission is either through a faulty torque converter/pump seal, CV axle seals, gaskets seals or cracked case. And yes, the pump could fail but would not cause the leak.

Please, I need your expert advice on a Honda Accord (BabyBoy) 1999 model which I bought through a friend based in the US in June this year. But since I bought the car, I have serviced it for over four times because of the constant shortage of engine oil. I usually use Mobil super 1000 XHP for my car service and I hardly travel out of my town in Abeokuta.

Please, I want to know if it is the car engine that is faulty or that the engine oil is not compatible with my car because my mechanic advised me to change it to AP Visco2000. I did just that but the problem still persists.

It looks as if I need to be servicing the car every two weeks. I have not noticed   any smoke from the slicer. If I change the engine oil to another one, will there be any improvement? I have done a scan on the car and the codes indicated that the car is in a good condition. Deji Peters, dejipeters23@yahoo.co.uk, 08033819xxx.

I believe the engine is faulty. It is either the valve seals are causing the shortage, worn engine oil ring or you have a leak on the engine. The oil shortage might not affect the smooth running of the engine. What I will advise you to do is to let someone follow you from the back and observe what is coming out of the exhaust tail pipe. I guarantee he will notice the smoke coming out.

Ever since the publication of last Sunday’s column, hundreds of interested new registrants have registered to partake in the 2013 Free Lagos seminar for auto technicians and enthusiasts scheduled for mid-November. It will be themed, “Fuel Basics and Fundamentals of the EVAP System.”

It’s worth reiterating that interested participants only need to text in their names to (and promise to come with a copy of SUNDAY PUNCH as the “gate fee”) 08080806686. Please, text your name only once. Do not text it again if you have done it before. Also, do not use your number to register for your friend.

REACTIONS TO AUTOMEDICS

Please, does the smoking of a car indicate its expiration and how long can I still use it before replacement? Thanks. Giwa Oyebola, 08023296xxx

Smoking of an engine is an indication of worn out part/s in the internal part of the engine. Sometimes, lack of maintenance will cause or contribute to the part/s failing. Such parts are the “oil ring, PCV, valve guide and seals.” But if you keep an eye on the oil level, change it when it is due for change with MSP added to the lubricant, you might still use it for years.

I ride a Mazda 626 2000 model. The code: TSC Off is showing on its dashboard as well as indicator light for handbrake even when the handbrake is released. At times, when I start the car, these lights and the ABS come on and off on their own. The vehicle uses a manual gear. What do you think is wrong? Thank you. Kolade Adebayo

I believe there is a problem with one of the wheel sensors that controls the ABS and TCS. Run a scan on the ABS system, the result will guide the technician on which wheel needs to be worked on.

Sir, we are about to buy box body truck for haulage purpose, but it is a right hand drive. Is it advisable for us to convert it to left hand? I will like to know if there can be any problem in future. Besides, do you do this type of conversion on trucks? If yes, like how much will it cost so I can take an informed decision. Thanks, Adebowale Dairo, adebodairo@yahoo.com

We do not do conversion in any of our workshops. But the answer is yes it can be converted. If it is well done, you should not have any problem, but if at all any problem will surface, it will be from the electrical wiring, steering and suspension system.

Sir, I want to ask some questions regarding to problems I am recently encountering with Toyota Camry, 2000 model. Let me know when it convenient to chat with you.0818 1173xxx

I am not in the country, but you can send the question which will be answered in the next edition.

I drive a 2002 Accord and it developed a problem. When in drive, the car would not move until I throttle to between five and six. It would then jerk and move well. The check engine light is not on and my local mechanic is saying I should replace it. Please, what do you suggest? Oluwatobi Adediran, Regulatory and People Services KPMG Advisory Services, 07045382xxx

The problem you are facing is with transmission. Check the fluid level and also let your technician look at the shift solenoids on the transmission for performance. You don’t need to replace anything, but running a scan on the transmission is not a bad idea.

Sir, kindly enlighten us- the Honda car users, about how to prevent the ball joint from constantly pulling off from the Shaft area. I have had this pitiable experience two times in the last one month and I have noticed that it is a common problem. 08066417xxx

The problem is with the design of the ball joint and also the condition of our road network. But using the so-called Tokunbo parts could cause the same problem, if the condition of the parts is questionable.

I am a regular reader of ‘automobile’ column in SUNDAY PUNCH. I bought a Nissan Primera 2001 model in May 2013. The car came with one key (for ignition only) and remote sensor (to open doors/boot). The doors and boot don’t have key holes and the remote is not performing well. I have repaired it thrice. Now, I want to make a duplicate key/remote sensor. Do you do such and how much will it cost me? Thanks. Olaniyi. Abeokuta, 07034588xxx

You need to contact our parts department on www.automedicsafrica.com

I drive a Kia Rio 2007 model. The timing belt cuts and its valves bent. My mechanic changed the bent valves, gasket and put a new timing belt. Mrs. Makinde, 08033600xxx

I did not receive the complete text.

I drive a 4matic Benz. The vehicle’s battery ran down and I borrowed a friend’s battery. I returned it borrowed another one. But after this, I noticed that my vehicle’s winder, horn and radio have all stop working. Please what do you think is the problem? Jona Gwarinpa, 08038380xxx

It is possible you could have caused an electrical short in the process of swapping the battery. Check the fuse that controls all the circuit you mentioned and replace them.

Good day sir. Please, I recently bought Toyota Sienna 2000 model. Each time I put on its A/C, the temperature rises. I will then park the car for about an hour and when I start it, blue smoke comes out of it.

I don’t know what this could mean? But my mechanic said it could be due to weakness of its ring or oil valve seal weakness. Please, I need your advice on what to do. Ade, Port Harcourt, 08037418txxx

Your mechanic is absolutely right. But I will advise him to lay more emphasis on the valve seals.

My Nissan Car break port emits air but the break is still active. Fidelis, Ajegunle Apapa, Lagos. 08181661xxx

A: If the brake booster is leaking air, it’s just a matter of time before you need more force on the brake pedal to stop the car. Fix the leak or replace the part.

Thank you sir for the wonderful service you render to humanity through this column. May the good lord continue to lift your head up. I drive Acura RL 1997 model car. The check light came up and I took the car for scanning. The following codes came out: P1205 and P1399. What do they mean? 08183101xxx

P1205 is Fuel System Failure which will cause No. 5 cylinder to misfire.

Possible causes: Ignition spark-check primary and secondary ignition, check fuel system, fuel pressure and injector, check for vacuum leaks and check engine mechanical condition.

P1399: When a misfire occurs, engine speed will fluctuate. If the engine speed fluctuates enough to cause the Crankshaft Position sensor signal to vary, the Engine Control Module can determine that a misfire is occurring. Possible causes: Valve clearance out of range, Blocked EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) Passages.

I must thank you for all solutions you have been proffering to motorists. I drive a Toyota Camry (Orobo). It has 5S-FE engine. Whenever I open the vehicle’s air cleaner hose, I notice that there are some deposits of black oil in the throttle body. What could be the cause? 08051477xxx

The cause of the oil deposit in the air cleaner hose is due to a faulty PCV valve, too much oil in the engine or worn oil ring causing excessive blow-by in the engine.

I drive a Marcopolo bus, Grand Viale.  We built the engine three times within six weeks. At first, our mechanic claimed that the fault was caused by fake parts. He was asked to buy new parts but the same problem of oil leakage still persists. What do we do? Fatayi, 08131673xxx

Anytime an engine is rebuilt you have to allow a break-in period, which will allow all the parts to set and seat. And the only way to achieve this is by letting the mechanic run the engine for some time with minimal load on it. During the break-in period there is tendency of oil shortage.

I drive a Geely car (CK model). My battery sign has been showing on my dash board. Please what do you think is responsible for this? 0812 945 9xxx

When battery sign is showing on your dashboard it is an indication of faulty charging system. Take it for a charging system check up.

Ever since I came visiting Nigeria in 2003, after more than a decade-and-a-half of not stepping on its shores, I’d voluntarily engaged with the leading body of mechanics in Nigeria, Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association, Lagos Branch, by using the platform of the convention to enlighten them in the latest automotive technology of the day.

Last Tuesday was the tenth anniversary of the annual convention and Automedics’ Chief Operating Officer Gbola Oba, delivered a speech that’s combative and exhortational to the mechanics.

“May I beg to start this short speech by seeking two indulgences or permissions: firstly from you, my valued listeners, to let me profusely interject particular sections of this speech with emphatic Yoruba transliterations (this is for the sake of many in the audience who’re not the ‘bookish type’, but who MUST not be ignored because of the strategic mentorship roles they play, or can play, in bringing about the positive change that’ll primarily profit them and the young persons in the trade and inevitably the larger society: that’s Lagos State and/or Nigeria).

“Secondly, from the organisers, NATA Lagos Branch, whose construction of the theme/topic (“Taking the youth in the automobile industry to a greater height”) makes it seem as though they’re on an ‘altruistic mission’ of taking the youths of the industry to greater height as an act of leadership grace, when ordinarily the vibrancy and sustainability of their businesses fully depend on the reliability of the skills or competence imparting methodology they’ve instituted for their workforce (who’re mainly youths), and the peace/security of society is also functionally tied to the job fulfillment level (which is a factor of competence, job-security and entrepreneurial bloom age) of the youth who, if they’re vocationally disillusioned, can constitute imminent danger to orderliness in society.

“So, I believe that the topic should have read: ‘Taking the youths in the automobile industry to a greater height for the sake of our collective prosperity and society’s positive growth’ If you don’t agree with me, ask yourself ‘how many unfulfilled and low-skilled roadside mechanics ended up eking out a dangerous and disorderly living from pilfering auto parts or stealing whole vehicles in public and private parking lots, and as Okada riders before the selective prohibition of the untoward phenomenon in the greater Lagos Area’?

“It’s my belief also that it’s imperative at this juncture to, as a friend of NATA, speak some harsh truths in love here. Indeed I’ve sought and gotten the permissions of your humble chair, Chief Fayeun, to shoot (metaphorically) from the hips and take no prisoners. Therefore, I can confidently say in love that if you’re in this gathering and you’ve put between 20 to 40 years in the trade, then you’re a member of the generation that has short-changed itself through myopia, lack of vision and retarded skills set!

“Let me humbly implore you to ask yourself these self-assessment questions: Can I competently and confidently, as a 21st-century auto technician, use any professional auto-diagnosis tool thrust into my hand? Can I independently read and use tips from any up-to-date workshop manual to resolve the result of any diagnostic report I pulled from any vehicle’s computer?; Can I use a multimeter to test the wiring architecture of any vehicle I’m working on? Can I read the electrical wiring-diagram of any vehicle I’m working on? Can I use basic pressure testers (like cooling pressure tester, fuel pressure tester, oil pressure tester and compression pressure tester)? Can I use any programming and key-programming tools? Can I do an ECU-programming repair using skills set like J2534 programming method? Am I one of the roadside mechanics and auto electricians who, when a system’s or part’s name is mentioned, can’t even understand what it does or pin-point where it’s located in a vehicle? If your answers to all the questions above are not satisfactory to you and you’re not in a network of technicians who support each other with these identified skills set, then you’re slaving in the industry and you’re a Dishonourable Commissioner for Frustration to the Nigerian motoring public!

“The irony, however, is that majority of you can’t even escape from a ‘mentalo-cultural’ prison if they open the gate widely and beg you to liberate yourselves! Let me give you these experiential examples from my years of working with NATA: A, the bare certificate-chasing and wasteful attitude of registrants (mostly un-enthusiastic adults) to the free auto-diagnosis training that Automedics, in conjunction with the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board and the philanthropic Prince Gbolahan Lawal (the  Commissioner for Agriculture), packaged for your members over a period of one year (MOMTAN, which got half enrolment placements for its members relative to the 150 registered beneficiaries from NATA, had more successful candidates complete the course than your members).

“B, MOMTAN, in furtherance of the spirit of the trained-members-training-the-untrained, has kick-started an in-house training scheme wherein the beneficiaries of the training are training their colleagues; but in your case your leadership has been begging you to contribute a paltry N1, 000 individually so they can get you a permanent state secretariat that’ll have an in-built hall to be regularly used for scheduled training programme. Only 250 members out of your registered 50,000 bonafide members have contributed the money.”

The oxygen sensor is a device which measures the oxygen content of the exhaust gas. The amount of oxygen in the exhaust gas is a very good method of knowing how efficient combustion is in the engine. Indeed, it is also the best place to monitor the air fuel ratio.

Located in the exhaust system, the oxygen sensor produces a voltage proportional to the amount of oxygen in the exhaust versus the air (150 mV lean & 750 mV rich).  The ceramic sensor body is contained in a housing which protects it against mechanical effects and facilitates mounting. The ceramic body is made of stabilised zirconium dioxide (zirconia). Its surfaces are coated with electrodes made of a gas-permeable platinum layer. In addition, a porous ceramic coating has been applied to the side exposed to the exhaust gas. This coating prevents contamination and erosion of the electrode surfaces by combustion residue and particulates in the exhaust gases.

Oxygen sensors can fail when the sensor’s ceramic element is exposed to certain types of silicone compounds or when an oil-burning engine adds to the sensor and becomes oil-fouled. Small amounts of tetra-ethyl lead in the gasoline or over-the-counter fuel additives, which are not ‘oxygen sensor safe’, can also kill an oxygen sensor. Failures can occur instantaneously at the time the contaminant contacts the oxygen sensor, causing a dead sensor, or gradually over a period of time. Gradual deterioration results in a slow sensor which does not react as quickly as it should, causing the catalytic converter to perform less efficiently. This can lead to premature failure of the catalytic converter.

Slow oxygen sensors can cause a drop in fuel economy of 10-15 per cent, excessive exhaust emissions and poor drivability. Unfortunately, the symptoms of a slow oxygen sensor are not always obvious to the vehicle owner unless the vehicle fails an emissions test or when a decline in fuel economy is noticed or drivability problems occur. A dead sensor can be detected with a relatively inexpensive digital volt-ohm metre. A slow sensor can only be diagnosed by using a digital oscilloscope or scope metre. Most installers will probably not be able to spot an oxygen sensor problem until it is too late and the catalytic converter is already well on its way to failure.

One-wire and two-wire unheated oxygen sensors should be checked or replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. These sensors rely solely on hot exhaust gas to heat up to operating temperature and are designed to allow a large volume of exhaust gas to make contact with the active ceramic element. These sensors are exposed to contamination, especially the “wide-slot” varieties found on Chrysler, Ford and General Motors vehicles. Heated oxygen sensors have a built-in heater which heats the sensors. Much less exhaust gas needs to contact the ceramic element, making these sensors less prone to contamination. Heated sensors can also be located further downstream (closer to the catalytic converter) which increases their life expectancy. Heated oxygen sensors should be checked or replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.

When oxygen sensor failure occurs, a Diagnostic Trouble Code is recorded in the Engine Control Unit (ECU or “Brain-Box”) and a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine) is illuminated on the dashboard, alerting the driver that the vehicle has a problem. To diagnose the fault, a code reader or scan tool is connected to the vehicle to read the trouble code. The scan tools can vary in the display of information shown. Some show a definition for the code while others show only a trouble code number. There are generic or standard OBD II codes and vehicle manufacturers use additional codes called enhanced or OEM-specific codes. On many older (pre 1995) vehicles, a trouble code or DTC can be read without a scan tool or code reader by using a manual flash code procedure.

After having identified the description using a list of DTC trouble codes, the next step is to diagnose the fault. You must follow the diagnostic procedure to properly diagnose the system, sensor and/or circuit. The trouble code itself does not tell you which part to replace! The scan tools or code readers speak OBD II language, meaning the references to the engine are coded (e.g. B1 = Bank 1 and/or B2 = Bank 2; when applying OBD II to oxygen sensors, the codes would then read B1S1. This refers to Bank 1 Sensor 1).

Finding Bank 1 is not difficult. The front of the engine will have the accessory pulleys and drive belts, regardless of orientation in the engine compartment. Bank 1, containing cylinder number 1, is always the most forward cylinder on the block. There will be a visible difference in the cylinder head location. Sensor 1 will be the pre-catalytic position and Sensor 1 would typically be the post-catalytic position. In some instances, Sensor 1 can be pre-catalytic thus making Sensor 3 post-catalytic.

The life expectancy of an oxygen sensor is 30,000 to 50,000 miles typically. However, constantly exposed to the harsh environment found in an automobile’s exhaust system, the oxygen sensor sustains a constant barrage of harmful exhaust gases, extreme heat and high velocity particulates. And that is under normal operating conditions! You can then imagine the extra level of abuses the oxygen sensor faces on our peculiarly bad roads that are filled with mud, polluted oily water and other contaminants. Sometimes, contaminants such as coolant, oil or silicone particulates will find their way to the sensor as well.

I tell many of the young persons we mentor in contemporary automotive mechatronics skills and enterprise empowerment that Nigeria is a unique land of the blessed but blind. And I am talking as a man who just spent five months between the UK and the US (two of the supposedly advanced countries of the world) and was, at a point, crying to come back home.

I think it is somewhat imperative at this juncture that I clarify this seemingly “romantic” opinion of mine about our much lampooned country. And this is knowing full well that some of you will say, like a brilliant mentee once openly retorted: ‘‘Dr. Kay’, that’s romantic sir. I think it’s because you’re already successful. If you’re an unemployed graduate being beaten black and blue by the failure of the Nigerian state sir, you won’t say that. And I am sure you won’t miss Nigeria once you can get out of here sir.”

In some respects, the young man’s disillusionment cannot be wished away when such an optimistic assertion is juxtaposed with the gloom that’s written largely on our political-economic canvass.

But I like how Gbola Oba (my enterprise development alter ego) put it rhetorically back to the kid: “If you think you’re on ground zero here because of unemployment and lack of formal, state-instituted, socio-welfare infrastructure, just imagine you’re in a place where you’re officially and systemically lost. You cannot take up proper employment, you are perpetually running away from the law (the sight of a policeman will raise your blood pressure) so as not to be caught and deported. You see, as bad as the case is in Nigeria for young people like you, as a result of the failure of leadership, you can still as a determined and focused person make it pretty easy here.

“Look at one of the paradoxes here now: every major auto maintenance/repair workshop needs well trained skilled technicians and yet because of the failure of our formal and informal educational/training system, there is a profound shortage of employable hands out there. I can guarantee you (and I have tens of alumni of this programme who are now successful entrepreneurs and employers of labour to show for this claim) that this market is still yearning for people like you; if you can diligently do the right thing.”

What the lad didn’t know was that the two days I spent in Abuja on a give-back-to-this-column’s-readers (and the listeners of the Automedics radio programme on LOVE 104.5FM in the Federal Capital Territory ) free road show diagnosing, analysing and mentoring mechanics is one major occupational cum socio-emotional fanfare to welcome me back to these blessed shores. Hundreds of Nigerians from disparate socio-economic strata brought their vehicles to be diagnosed. Many who claimed to have been following this column from inception (and about three came with old copies of the SUNDAY PUNCH to prove it) said they came to personally thank me for having tremendously improved their knowledge of how automobiles work. In fact, some claimed that this column has liberated them from the “exploitation” of their mechanics.

I was so moved by the magnitude of tales of frustration that vehicle owners told me about their experiences in the hands of, ironically, equally frustrated roadside mechanics (about fifteen of the mechanics in attendance over the two-day event confessed their disillusionment with the ever-increasing face of technology in the trade to me and literally begged that the Automedics training programme be brought to Abuja too). Where in the world could I have had that shower of love, admiration and impactful relevance replicated to me? Boy, Naija good ooo!

NB: We are planning another major free diagnosis, analysis, printing of manufacturers’ repair manuals targeted at resolving diagnosed problems and mechanics mentorship event in Abuja on November, 16, 2013. For those who may wish to attend you can text your name with “Abuja” to 08080806686. Please don’t do it again if you have already sent in the text message previously either as a regular reader of this column or listener to our radio programme in Abuja.

REACTIONS TO AUTOMEDICS

Thanks for the great works you are doing. When in traffic gridlock, is it advisable to leave the gear of any car in neutral or it should remain in the drive position? 08022580xxx

I will say that the best position is in “D” (if it is a minor hold up but “N” if it’s a major traffic congestion). What you must not do is to be flipping the lever to “P” and back to “D” either in minor or major gridlock. The reason is that whether it is in neutral or drive the transmission pump is working anyway. The only part where the operation stops is inside the valve body, where the direction of the fluid is controlled by the valves and solenoids.

My Toyota Camry 2004 model overheats. The radiator has been flushed and there is no sign of leakage anywhere. What could be wrong? Israel E, 07034835xxx

More comprehensive tests still need to be carried out on the cooling system. You need to check the polarity of the radiator fan, RPM of the fan, condition of the thermostat, condition of the water pump, integrity of the radiator cells around the lower tank and, more importantly, make sure the cylinder head gasket has not been compromised (which can only be detected by a good cooling pressure tester).

The check light of a recently imported Honda Accord 2004 model is on. I did a scan on it and got the code 001: P0141 02 sensor heater circuit bank 1 sensor 2. 2. How can I fix it and what will it cost me? Tunde Areo, Oyo State, 08035687xxx

P0141 Description O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction Bank 1 Sensor 2

Oxygen Sensors (O2S) or Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) need to reach a minimum operating temperature of 750 degrees F to produce an accurate voltage signal. The faster the heated oxygen sensor reaches that temperature, the faster the sensor will start sending an accurate signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM).

To achieve the required temperature, a heater element is included inside the heated oxygen sensor. The ECM controls the heated oxygen sensor heater element based on signals from the engine coolant temperature and engine load. The ECM controls the heater element circuit by allowing current flow to ground.

The ECM monitors the voltage signal received through the heater element circuit and determines the state of the circuit by comparing the voltage detected with the factory specifications. This code means that there is a problem with the heater element circuit of the heated oxygen sensor. The control module monitors how long it takes the sensor to warm up and start sending an adequate signal. The code is triggered when the sensor is taking too long to warm up. Water getting inside the heated oxygen sensor connector can cause the heated oxygen sensor fuse to blow. Before replacing the sensor, check for the condition of the heated oxygen sensor fuse and connectors. If the sensor and connector are okay, replacing the O2 Sensor 1 usually takes care of the problem.  When is this code detected? Current amperage in the rear heated oxygen sensor heater circuit is out of the normal range

Possible causes: Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit fuse, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection, Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM).

I am a regular reader of your column in SUNDAY PUNCH. My Toyota Highlander 2004 model developed problem last week. The break light and ABS are permanently on. The vehicle’s brake pads have been changed and its break oil is okay. The problem still persists. What do I do? 08088836xxx

My advice is to run a scan on the ABS and TPMS system. The result of the scan will guide you on what type of repair is needed.

Sir, my Honda CRV imported from the US few days ago consumes fuel a lot. I bought 40 litres worth of petrol and it reached a quarter within a journey of 40 kilometers. What do you advice? 08056167xxx

If you burn that amount of fuel within 40 kilometers it’s definitely abnormal. Ten gallons (i.e. forty litres) of fuel should make about 200 miles in city mileage and 300 highway mileage. You need to diagnose on the powertrain of the vehicle. The result will help me better to in finding a solution to the outrageous fuel consumption.

I read your article titled “Let the expert check the oxygen sensor if your vehicle is tokunbo” published in SUNDAY PUNCH last week.

I just want to know if the sign “Check Engine” displayed on the dashboard of my vehicle is as a result of the failure of the oxygen sensor.

I just bought the car from Cotonou. It is Ford Focus 2002 model. When we were coming back, the front tyre (driver side) got punched and we replaced it. The “Check Engine” was not displaying as at that time even after using the spare for about 10km before we reached mechanic shop where we patched the tyre. After replacing the spare with the patched tyre, we discovered that the steering wheel started shaking whenever the speed reached 100km/h.

The “Check Engine” light displayed has refused to go off since then. The car is a month old now. Please, I need your advice on what I should do.

Also, a mechanic in Badagry advised that I should remove the thermostat to enhance better cooling system (because of our weather here in Nigeria). Do you think I should do this or just leave it? The vehicle’s temperature gauge usually stops in the middle when the car is fully warm. Thank you. Opeyemi Rasheed, orpee2k2@gmail.com

If your car is not overheating, my advice is that you leave the thermostat. You can only replace it if it is faulty. About the “Check Engine” light, the only way to find out why the light is on is to run a scan on the powertrain system of the car. The results will reveal why the light is on.

I am a graduate of mechanical engineering. Please sir, I need your help. I want to have a sound knowledge in practical aspect of automobile engineering. I will be very grateful if you can give me the opportunity to have an intensive training under you.tundeadash84@yahoo.com

You will need to come to our office inside the Lagos Television Complex, Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, opposite Coca Cola.

Good day sir. Is there a good mechanic you can recommend in Ibadan? I drive Toyota Sienna 2005 model.  Its VSC light and check engine is on. I did a scan but the mechanics I took the codes to were unable to interpret it. Oxygen sensor seems to be a problem in the car too. What do I do sir? 08126906xxx

If you can forward the result of the scan to me I can interpret it and you can now relay it to your mechanic to use in correcting the fault.

Please kindly advise me on a fairly-used Infinity G35X saloon car. Is it a good car? Also, are its parts available or I should go for a Toyota car like Camry? 08033363xxx

The G35X is a good car but the parts are not readily available in the market. Camry parts are readily available. The choice of which one to buy is yours to make.

I stumbled on your column in SUNDAY PUNCH. I was impressed with the solutions you proffered to each of the questions asked. I drive a Toyota Avalon XLS 2000 model. The check engine has been on for a while so I thought I should do oxygen check on it. The vehicle’s ‘abs’ and ‘brake’ light came for too long. I have concluded plans to sell the car and buy a Toyota Highlander 2005-2008 model. Please, do you have any idea how much I could sell the Avalon to buy a good Highlander? Also, how can I locate your workshop? Ajani Dayo, dyox01@yahoo.com

Yes, it’s possible that a faulty oxygen sensor could trigger the “check engine” sign, but a lot of other problems in the powertrain (that’s auto language for the transmission and the engine) could also trigger the light to be on. You will need to run a scan on the powertrain to ascertain why the light is on. On the price of the car, I cannot help because I don’t deal in car sales. My workshop is inside Lagos Television Complex on Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, opposite Coca cola.

I want to buy a fairly used Toyota Highlander between 2008 or 2009 model. I want you candid advice on whether N1.5m or N2m can purchase it. 08055466xxx

I don’t believe you can get the vehicle for that amount, unless you want a lemon Highlander. A model of that Toyota is in high demand.

The first set of two vehicles to land in Nigeria arrived in 1902. And from the 1960s when private sector enterprises like UAC, Federated Motors Industries and SCOA Motors kick-started the assembling of Completely Knocked Down, (CKD), parts into “locally-made” vehicles, the policy thrust of the government has, at best, been a fudge.

In the early 1970s, in the pursuit of what was said to be the “import substitution policy” of the Federal Government then (a policy that was mouthed to ultimately obliterate the importation of vehicles into the country; which this new automotive policy seems to be echoing), Volkswagen and Peugeot plants were started in Lagos and Kaduna respectively. These two government sponsored CKD assembly plants were followed by the FGN establishing four commercial vehicles’ assembly plants in Ibadan (Leyland), Enugu (Mercesdes-Benz ANAMMCO), Kano (National Trucks Manufacturers) and Bauchi (Steyr Nigeria) in 1976.

Also, agreements were signed in the early 80s for the establishment of five minibus assembly plants (Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot, Isuzu and Mazda), but just like the previously established plants were going out of business (barring Peugeot in Kaduna and anemic versions of Mercedes-Benz ANAMMCO in Enugu and Steyr in Bauchi) these newly planned plants didn’t commence operations. In 2010, a local entrepreneur, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd. in partnership with a Chinese automaker commissioned Nigeria’s latest automobile assembly plant.

A cursory examination of the failed historic import substitution policy may help us to appreciate the inherent emptiness of the new automotive policy. Before such an ambitious policy can be successful, certain fundamentals must be in place: One, the requisite human capital, with the relevant automotive mechatronics capacity to engage the electronics and computing technologies that define the modern automobiles ought to be in place. This vital condition is presently lacking because of the generational systemic failure of our educational/technical training programme. Nigerian universities and colleges of technology are still using totally obsolete curricula (like carburettor technology that’s been outdated for over two decades) to teach our undergraduates specialising in automotive engineering!

Two, in most countries where vehicles are manufactured, the assembly plants only constitute the zenith of an industrial pyramid of raw materials processors and parts-making industries. The National Automotive Council, the nation’s statutory body that’s laden with regulating activities and standards in the industry has less than 100 registered local automotive parts/products producers/manufacturers (and this includes manufacturers of basic seat covers, seat belts and other primary and less complicated components). And insofar as the import substitution policy of yore failed because these feeder industries were non-existent, it’s almost certain that the present ruse of a policy too will fail, as laudable as it seems on paper.

Three, it’s indeed an irony that unlike most auto making countries where basic electrical components like the air conditioning compressors, alternators, starters, etc, are refurbished locally and re-used in vehicles, the unholy alliance between incessant power outages, dearth of investment funds and almost a total lack of skilled manpower will starve the enunciated policy to the grave of its dead and delusional predecessor-policy.

Is it not paradoxical that the same administration that increased the number of years of automobiles imported to Nigeria from 10 years old to 15 years is the same government that has “reasoned” out this utopic policy? Is this not a major policy somersault? I must state at this juncture that the government’s claim that N550bn was used annually to import vehicles into the country seems a bit tall to me; if one assumes that the average price of imported automobiles (eighty five percent of which are used vehicles) is N2.5m and one divides N550bn with N2.5m one will get a picture of 200 million vehicles annually imported into the country! Something is totally wrong between this outrageous claim and the realistic picture of about 100,000 vehicles averagely imported to this country annually.

As a stakeholder in the Nigerian automotive industry, Mr. President, I hereby implore you to kindly summon a policy review session where some of us can table our suggestions of how to create the industrial eco-system that’ll help articulate the admirable objectives enunciated in the presently presumptuous policy.

The Yoruba have a saying which has always intrigued me from childhood: Omo ti ako ko lo ma gbe ile ti ako ta. It literally means that a child that one fails to train will inevitably grow up to squander one’s assets .

On the eve of the centenary anniversary of the “rickety polity” called Nigeria, I am compelled to use the evident policy-failure-precipitated human capital malaise in the Nigerian automotive industry (in the backdrop of the paradoxically interesting but disillusioning new “Automotive Industrial Policy Development Plan”) to argue for a human capital development focus of the implementation of the new policy and, indeed, as the core agendum of governance.

I have a confession to make. When I visit some of the states where the physical infrastructures are being appreciably transformed, I’m wont to silently ask myself a rhetorical question: “I hope that this governor so-and-so has factored in the post-project-completion maintenance into the contract and I pray the indigenes of the state can…?

Factors such as the dramatic depreciation of our currency in the early 90s (which culminated in the ultimate demise of the ‘70s and ‘80s-birthed local auto plants and the feeder industries that came to life on the back of the ambitious “import substitution policy” of the military governments) may have led us to the “tokunbo” cul-de-sac wherein we presently find ourselves. But the most potent “enemy” of the car-owning middle-class in today’s Nigeria is the “ignorant roadside mechanic” and certificated automotive engineering ignoramuses.

The reason why one spends 50 per cent more in Nigeria to maintain an average vehicular asset is the hefty cost that one pays for the ignorance of majority of our auto technicians.  This is besides the poor condition of our roads and the preponderance of sub-standard spare parts which have inundated our markets.

And if the new policy must succeed, the Federal Government must first drive the training element of the policy beyond just sharing monies to some universities to create moribund departments of automotive engineering. This will simply produce certificated fools at the expense of seeing through a rank-and-file re-address how we train auto technicians and engineers from our technical colleges, polytechnics and universities. Failure to do this and do it well will simply translate to basically changing the method of capital flight from the direct importation of new and used vehicles to capital haemorrhage that will be bandaged by the smiling faces of the so-called expatriates. These are what the entrepreneurs will ship in with the completely knocked down auto parts that will be assembled on our shores. Wetin go be the difference between 419 and jibiti then?

Correction: May I humbly tender an unreserved apology for the mathematical error I made in the last edition. And I really want to use this opportunity to heartily thank all those who sent text messages to intimate me with the perturbing fact. However, beyond that simple error of calculation, I firmly stand on all the core points marshalled in the treatise.

REACTIONS TO AUTOMEDICS

The steering of my Toyota Sienna 2003 model got deflated. I have repaired it but I want to change it in order to get back its SRS airbag. gbolarich@yahoo.com, 08181094xxx.

Please visit www.automedicsafrica.com and fill the online appointment form. The team leader of our nearest shop to you will call you as soon as possible.

The engine of my Millennium  Mazda 2000 model engine emits smoke. My mechanic advised me to change it. I did but the technician could not locate the fault. Please, what area in the car can he check to find the fault so that the engine can start? Thank you. Akinyemi Akintoye. 08132739xxx

 The first thing is for your mechanic to make sure the engine you guys bought is coming from the same region of the world as the vehicle. If the calibration of the crank sensor is different from the engine that was taken out of the vehicle it’s possible for the mechanic to experience these challenges.

I read your enlightening article titled “Putting the cart before the horse” and I discovered an error: N550bn/2.5m = 220,000 not N200m. Thank you.  Chinedu Adiele, 07033765xxx

I am sorry that my calculation was wrong. It was too late when I discovered the error.

I drive a Pontiac vibe. The car was in a good condition when I was based in Lagos. But it is now faulty when it was handled by mechanics in Abuja. The gear of the Pontiac refused to change and I changed its oil. It worked well until the problem started again. How can I get your number or locate your workshop in Abuja? Thanks. 08094147xxx

Our workshop will start operation before December in Abuja. I hope you understand that the Vibe share the same parts with Toyota Corolla.

I drive a Ford Free style 2007 model. I read online recently that the transmission is CVT. What are the precautionary measures to take? 08033522xxx

The only measure I will advise you to adhere to is good maintenance of the transmission. Also make sure you are using the right fluid when you service the transmission.

Please, can you recommend one or two BMW mechanics within Lekki Peninsula to me? Thanks. Ade Owosekun, 08037152xxx

Automedics Autocare inside the NIPCO Fuel Station near the Lagos Business School on the Lekki-Epe Express Road.

Sir, I am a journalist with Business Day newspaper. I read your article in SUNDAY PUNCH last week on the new automotive policy. Please, note that N550bn divided by N2.5m is N220, 000 and not N200, 000m as you calculated. You may edit the mistake in the next article because it is misleading. Thanks. 08169609xxx

Thanks for the correction.

I read your article titled ‘New automotive policy: putting the cart before the horse’ in SUNDAY PUNCH last week. If you divide N550bn by N2.5m, what you get is N220,000. 08033017xxx

Thanks again for the correction.

Please, I have never engaged ‘D2’ and ‘L’ on my AR lever. My mechanic said the engine of my Toyota Corolla 1999 model cannot be ringed and that I should buy a new one costing N125, 000. I don’t have such money. Is he right and how can you help me? Oyebola Giwa, 08023296xxx

Your engine is re-buildable if you can get the right parts, right machine work done and most importantly, the right mechanic to assemble the engine. The D2 and L are lower gears in the transmission. L is the equivalent of the first gear while D2 will not allow it to shift past the second gear.

Sir, my son is in SSS2. He is a science pupil. He told me he would like to study automotive engineering in the university. What is the difference between automotive and mechanical engineering? Will he get a job as automotive engineer after graduation? Thanks for ever being helpful. I give kudos to PUNCH management for providing this platform. Otunba Bamgbola. 08037207xxx

Mechanical engineering is a discipline that automotive falls under. Yes, opportunity awaits him when he graduates. Please, encourage him with your support and we are ready at Automedics to support him also.

I drive a Toyota Camry 2004 and I noticed that the water in the radiator usually reduces after three days unlike my Honda Accord which can be full for a month. Niyi, 08027046xxx

If the coolant reduces every three days, it means that you have a leak in the cooling system of the engine. The easiest way to find the leak is to use a tool called the “coolant pressure tester”. When the system is pressurised to a certain amount of pressure, the spot where the coolant is being lost will be revealed. The, appropriate repairs can then be done.

Thank you for enlightening the motoring public. I am a mechanic. I want to know how to reset ‘service engine soon.’ Oshodi Abiodun. 08094897xxx

 You can reset the “service engine soon” with a scanner or in some rare cases, it will reset itself after some drive cycle.

I want to buy a China-made BYD SUV. I saw the car in Ghana when I visited the country recently and fell in love with it. But everybody I had told about the car discouraged me from buying it because it was manufactured in China.

After making enquiries, I discovered that the vehicle uses Mitsubishi technology, so I may not need to worry about spare parts. What do you advise me to do? Joyce , afijoyce@hotmail.com

You are right about the Mitsubishi technology, most vehicle manufacturers only design the body, the rest of the parts are sourced from different vendors. If you like the car please go for it.

I recently bought a Toyota Sienna LE 2001 model. It came with just one non-transponder key. I did not know until I had paid. The dealer promised to get me an additional key. I felt he would only make a duplicate of it. The research I made online and in the vehicle manual showed that the transponder key has security features for the vehicle. Kindly enlighten me on what to do? Bankole Ogunhibe, bankydotcom@yahoo.com,

It is true that keys with transponders do have security in them. But some Toyota up to about 2003 do not have transponder chip in them. You might fall in this category. If it does not have a transponder system, then you just have to install after market security system in your van.

I appreciate you for the wonderful services you have been rendering to readers of Automedics in SUNDAY PUNCH. I drive a jeep Highlander 2002 model. It stops intermittently for about five times and takes up to five to seven minutes before it moves. The scan showed: PO449 -Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Valve /Solenoid Circuit malfunction. PO505- Idle control system malfunctions. Please, what do I do? Thank you.  Gani 08022943***

To start with, a jeep is a brand on its own while Highlander is a model under the Toyota brand. The P0505 is the code I suspect for the problem you are facing. Your technician can use the codes interpretation to solve the problem.

P0449: The Evaporative Emission System (EVAP) canister vent control valve is located on the EVAP canister and is used to seal the canister vent. This solenoid (the EVAP canister vent control valve) responds to signals from the Engine Control Module (ECM). When the ECM sends an ON signal, the coil in the solenoid valve is energised. A plunger will then move to seal the canister vent. The ability to seal the vent is necessary for the on board diagnosis of other evaporative emission control system components. This solenoid valve is used only for diagnosis, and usually remains opened. When the vent is closed, under normal purge conditions, the evaporative emission control system is depressurised and allows EVAP Control System (Small Leak) diagnosis.

Possible causes: Purge Control Valve harness is open or shorted, Purge Control Valve electrical circuit poor connection, Faulty canister vent control valve

P0505: The idle speed is controlled by the Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS). The ETCS is composed of the throttle motor, which operates the throttle valve, and the throttle position sensor, which detects the opening angle of the throttle valve. The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the throttle motor to provide the proper throttle valve opening angle to obtain the target idle speed.

Possible symptoms: Engine hard to start, rough or erratic idle speed.

Possible causes: Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS). Air induction system, PCV hose connection.

More than one thousand participants have registered to partake in our planned open air seminar with free diagnosis, analysis and maintenance/repair mentoring scheduled for Abuja on November 16, 2013.

All the registered participants have been notified to come with a copy of SUNDAY PUNCH as entry ticket. This edition’s copy is the one that will be accepted at the entrance. So, buy a copy today if you’ve not kept any previous copy for the purpose. Thank you.

Reaction to automedics

I scanned my car this afternoon and I got two error codes namely P0012 and P0606. Kindly give a detail explanation of these codes. Thanks. Abiodun Kuye, 08186001xxx

You have technically solved the problem yourself, all you need is just how to read meaning into your research online. Possible causes: Dirty or low engine oil, faulty Variable Valve Timing (VVT), faulty Oil Control Valve (OCV), Variable Valve Timing (VVT) harness is open or shorted, Oil Control Valve (OCV) harness circuit is open or shorted or damaged ECM. I believe you have sludge built up in the engine which is causing or reducing oil pressure to VVT valve.

Sir, I drive a Volkswagen Vento car with Ac. A mechanic worked on the vehicle’s clutch plate which got burnt. After that, its fan stopped working. A check conducted on it showed that it no longer works. I replaced it but now it overheats. What do I do? 08189898xxx

I don’t believe changing the clutch plate (disc) has anything to do with the radiator fan not working; unless the wiring was tampered with. And for the vehicle to be overheating, you must have run it hot when the fan went bad or faulty. Your mechanic is the one that can ascertain why it is still overheating. S/he needs to make sure the polarity of the fan is not reversed and also that the thermostat is okay and the gasket is not blown.

I drive an American specs Toyota Camry Le ‘07 model. My brother-in-law had an accident with it and its tyre burst. He bought a tube and fixed it in the tyre. The sensor in the valve was removed by a vulcaniser. I have replaced the sensor but light still shows on the dashboard. I have been told that it can be taken for re-scan. Please advise me on what to do. Also, I hear a sound from the front right side of my car anytime I make more than 80 or 100ce. I changed the inner cup of my shaft and bought new tyres for the car. I also changed the vehicle’s condenser and its a/c compressor. My mechanic told me that the vehicle’s tyre is the problem but I believe it’s more than that. I need you to tell me what to do or direct me to where it can be checked. Thanks. Chuka from Abuja 08037733xxx

You will need to scan the chassis system of the vehicle to be able to communicate with TPMS system. I have a feeling one of the sensors is faulty, but only the scan can pick up which sensor. About the noise, I believe the hub wheel bearing was damaged when the accident occurred. But your mechanic can confirm by inspecting the wheel involved in the accident.

I am a regular reader of SUNDAY PUNCH. I want to know the difference between manifold absolute pressure and mass airflow sensor.  Also, where is the EGR and Knock sensor located in the engine component?  Abiodun, 08028979xxx

The manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP sensor) is one of the sensors used in an internal combustion engine’s electronic control system.

Engines that use a MAP sensor are typically fuel injected. The manifold absolute pressure sensor provides instantaneous manifold pressure information to the engine’s electronic control unit (ECU). The data is used to calculate air density and determine the engine’s air mass flow rate, which in turn determines the required fuel metering for optimum combustion (see stoichiometry) and influence the advance or retard of ignition timing. A fuel-injected engine may alternately use a mass airflow sensor (MAF sensor) to detect the intake airflow. A typical configuration employs one or the other, but rarely both.

A Mass Air Flow sensor is usually mounted near the air filter box or somewhere before the throttle. It meters the amount of air going into the engine. There are two different types of Mass Air Flow sensors: Hot Wire and Vane Meter.

A Hot Wire design, the predominant MAF sensor in use today, places an electrically-charged hot wire in the air stream and the sensor reads changes in the resistance of the wire brought on by the temperature/density of the air flowing past it. The sensor tries to compensate for the resistance in the hot wire and keep the resistance constant. During the act of re-balancing, the resistance is converted into a voltage signal of between 0 and 5 volts and sent to the ECU.

The EGR is located on the intake manifold, while the Knock sensor is always located on the engine block and is typically located in the valley of a V shaped engine.

Sir, I drive a Toyota Camry 2007 model. I always experience engine oil shortage. Please, advice me. Dayo, 08038286xxx

If you experience oil shortage in your engine and you don’t have obvious leak on it, then your mechanic needs to be looking at the valve seals or the piston oil rings as the culprit.

I drive a Honda Accord v6 1998 model. The car emits whitish smoke from the exhaust with sludge at the exhaust tip. I was told by my mechanic to change the valve seal. I did that but the smoke returned after three months. I need your advice. We also need Automedics in the Festac/Amuwo-Odofin axis. Paul, 08033218xxx

Your mechanic needs to be sure it is the valve seal, sometimes the valve stem guides could be faulty and if it is not taken care of, it will in turn damage the valve seals. Also, the engine piston oil ring could be part of the problem. We have one of our quick service branches (Automedics Autocare) inside the lube bay of the NIPCO Filling Station opposite the National Postgraduate Medical College in Ijanikin.

Where can I find a workshop that has the coolant pressure tester in Surulere. Niyi, 08027046xx

The closest location we have to you in Surulere is in Akoka (Automedics Autocare) inside the Federal College of Education (Technical). You can also come to our location inside Lagos Television Complex (LTV) Agidingbi.

Please, I want to find out if putting off the air conditioner in a car reduces fuel consumption.  When the A/C is put off, a lot of people believe this will reduce the amount of fuel consumption in automobiles. niggnath@yahoo.com

Yes, putting off A/C will reduce fuel consumption, but not in a significant way. A/C is considered to be a load on the engine.

I drive a CRV 1999 model. It shows ‘check engine’ and ‘multiple cylinder misfire ring.’ It does not move well. I have serviced the nozzles but the problem persists. Femi Adetoye, mafavour@yahoo.com 08067437xxx

My advice will be for you to run a scan on the engine before any other repair is carried out on it again. The check light is the only source of warning you have if anything is wrong with the engine or transmission. You can then text the result to me for interpretation.

I drive a Nissan Primera 1998 and I have been driving it since June 2010. Recently, each time I start to warm the car in the morning, a thick white smoke comes out.  After revving the car, the engine emits steam and colourless water. What can I do? Is the engine weak or is there a special treatment needed? The engine oil was changed only 10 days before the development and the car covered 200 km after the oil change. Thanks, Wole Alamu, fowoltfaith@gmail.com

To start with, your car is fifteen years old, I believe the mileage will be high and also you have to consider tear and wear on the parts, most especially the moving parts inside the engine. And the culture with which you maintain the vehicle also matters. In your case, the valve stem seals are the problem.

I appreciate your column every week. I want to draw your attention to the practice of some guys that purchase used auto parts moving around towns. I suspect they repaint and repackage the parts. I want to advise that vehicle users should be keeping their disused auto parts to guide against such practice. There is a problem of where to even keep the unused parts so in this regard government should create recycling sites to dispose them. mikeafolabi2k4@gmail.com.

The government and the association of parts dealer are the only body that can police these characters. But I know first-hand that the practice does exist.

I thank you for educating Nigerian motorists. I want to buy a medium size SUV and thinking of buying an Acura MDX or Nissan Rogue both 2007-2009 models. I need your advice especially on availability/cost of spare parts and fuel consumption. Thanks. 07089177xxx

The parts for both SUVs are available in the market. It could be expensive when it comes to cost.

I drive a Rover Freelander V6 2001 model. I always top its oil after a long distance. Some mechanics advised me to change to change its engine to that of Camry or Honda. Another mechanic told me to overhaul the engine. What should I do? TT Kuyebi, 08023049xxx

What your mechanic needs to ascertain first is why the shortage? Is it related to the valve seals or the oil rings? If it is the valve seal, it can be replaced without changing the whole engine, or the oil ring needed to rebuild the engine. But don’t allow them to replace the engine with another brand of vehicle engine.

I appreciate your disposition on the country’s human capital development. We can only have sustainable development when productivity is rewarded in place of certificate glorification. Higher degrees are relevant but technician and technology should be encouraged to grow. Also, Higher National Diploma holders should not be pegged to G/L 14. The discrimination against HND graduates has in no small way contributed to the inefficiency of our national policy. Government should take a proactive step in creating competitive career progression for artisans and technologists to remain relevant. Lawrence. 08058430xxx

As someone who spent the better part of my adult life in the USA away from the innings and outings of Nigeria’s civil service politics, I cannot take a position on a subject that I’m not well grounded in.

I enjoy what you do on your column every week. I pray for log life for you and hope our government will encourage great brains like.08036839xxx

Thanks for the prayer.

Sir, I drive a Volkswagen Passat 2001 model with a V6 and 3.0 engine. It also has a four motion system. The vehicle consumes a lot of fuel and has a 60 liter tank capacity. It can hardly last from Ibadan to Okene in Kogi State. If the problem is mechanical, what do you advise me to do? Kaleti Gbokamuno, kaletig@yahoo.com

First thing you need to do is to run a scan on the powertrain of the vehicle. The result of the scan will give an insight into what the problem is and how to go solve the problem.

I drive a Ford Galaxy space wagon car. Its battery was removed to start my BMW car and returned. I later drove the car within three kilometers.  After one week, I wanted to use the car but it cranked as if there was not enough fuel in it. Please, what do you think is the problem because I bought the car recently from Austria and would any roadside technicians to tamper with it. Benson Uwomah, bensonuwomah@gmail.com

I believe the problem you are facing now with the Ford was just a coincidence. Your mechanic will have to do a proper diagnosis of the vehicle’s fuel and ignition system. The result of the diagnosis will instruct the mechanic on what to do.

The Automobile and Allied Products Sectoral Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry held its annual symposium on Thursday, October, 24, 2013.  The topic was: “Reversing the ‘used cars’ trend-unlocking the potential in the automobile industries.” And I was honoured with an invitation by the sectoral chair, Oseme Oigiagbe, one of Nigeria’s notable automobile marketers.

Some of the good-and-the-great of Nigeria’s public transportation administration,  Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Kayode Opeifa, industry, Mr. Goodie Ibru, OON, President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce; policy-making Mallam Aminu Jalal, Director General of the National Automotive Council and academic, Dr. Adedoyin Salami of the Lagos Business School.

The synopsis of the engaging session for me can best be captured by the positions of Salami and Jalal (albeit he shared this personally with me after the formal session, when he came to acknowledge the good that this column is adding to the Nigerian automotive industry): Salami’s position is that although the government’s policy is somewhat laudable, its core priority is wrong.

He believes that once the tariffs on imported vehicles are jacked up, the porous borders of the country will likely be abused for the supply of smuggled vehicles into the local market. He continued that the government ought to have started the policy by initially emphasising the strategic support of local manufacturers of spare parts. This made a lot of sense to me because the cumulative amount expended on the procurement of spare parts per vehicle (either new or used) over its period of use is far more than the sales price of the vehicle. According to him, Australia, a well known industrial economy, presently does not have any auto manufacturing plant of its own any more.

However, Jalal, in his private discussion with me, pointed out the fact that it’s never the intention of government to totally ban used vehicles. According to the affable gentleman, it’s the intention of government to increase employment, stop forex leakage and encourage foreign direct investment in the automotive industry (he gave the example of Nissan that’s already considering resuscitating the derelict Volkswagen assembly plant on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway).

On the whole, many of the attendees are of the opinion that government should wait until the local assemblers can satisfy a sizeable percentage of the volume that the local market requires before upping its tariff regime.

REACTIONS TO AUTOMEDICS

I drive a Toyota Rav4 2004 model. Its breaks make a screeching noise especially when the vehicle enters water. I bought the vehicle in March this year. The noise is embarrassing. Please help me. 08033260xxx

I have a feeling the brake pads have built up so much dust that has dried up and solidified, causing the annoying noise you hear. You might need to replace the brake pads and resurface or replace the brake disc.

My Mercedes Benz C class converted to left hand steering has developed gear problem. I think it is electrical problem. When can I bring it to your workshop for repair? 08055940xxx

Yes, the problem is definitely electrical/electronic fault, but unfortunately we do not work on converted vehicles.

Thank you for enlightening the motoring public. I want to buy a Volkswagen Transporter T4 bus (diesel or gasoline engine) but I want to know if it is a fuel efficient bus because I intend using it for transportation business? What engine size is ideal for commercial transport?07088410xxx

I do not have any statistics on this particular vehicle’s fuel consumption, but I can tell you to buy diesel engine if you are going to use it for transportation. Diesel engine is more durable and tough for the type of application you desire.

I am a regular reader of your column in SUNDAY PUNCH. I will appreciate if you can help me interpret the following codes I got after scanning my Honda Accord 1999 model. The first code is P1259 and it indicates VTEC system failure. Others are fuel system 1, CL, fuel system two, NA, calc load per cent, 54.9, ECT (F), 172, STFT B1, -4.7, LTFT B1, 2.3, MAP (inHG), 16.2, Eng RPM, 2448, Veh speed MPH, 58, IAT (F), 113, TPS per cent, 19.2.

Also, I have a scanner which I want to start using to scan cars for a fee. But it shows codes without indicating the likely symptoms, causes and solutions. I satisfied a customer after using the differential temperature scanning calorimeter. Can you tell me the software that has DTCS to aid my scanning business? Many thanks. Smith Olusegun.

P1259: The VTEC system activates the VTEC solenoid valve by command from the powertrain control module (PCM), and it charges/discharges the hydraulic circuit of the VTEC mechanism that is installed in the valve system to switch valve timing between Low and High. The PCM monitors oil pressure conditions in the hydraulic circuit of the VTEC mechanism according to the VTEC oil pressure switch downstream of the VTEC solenoid valve. If there is a disparity between oil pressure condition in the hydraulic circuit that is determined by the PCM command, and the oil pressure condition that is determined by the status of the VTEC oil pressure switch, the system is considered faulty and a DTC is stored. Possible causes: Low engine oil pressure or level, Open or short circuit condition, Faulty VTEC oil pressure switch, faulty VTEC solenoid.

On the other question you asked, you have to enroll in our training to get the kind of help you required.

I want you to help me interpret the codes I got after scanning my Honda Odyssey 1998 model. The codes are P0730, P1738 and P1739. Also, the vehicle’s gear selector fails on motion. Thank you. 08098168xxx

P0730: This diagnosis monitors actual gear position by checking the torque converter slip ratio calculated by Transmission Control Module (TCM) as follows: Torque converter slip ratio = A x C/B

A: Output shaft revolution signal from speed sensor (revolution sensor)

B: Engine speed signal from Engine Control Module (ECM)

C: Gear ratio determined as gear position which TCM supposes

If the actual gear position is higher than the position supposed by TCM, the slip ratio will be more than normal. In case the ratio exceeds the specified value, TCM judges this diagnosis malfunction.

Possible causes: Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Shift solenoids, Transmission mechanical problems, Transmission hydraulic control circuit. P1738 Honda – Problem in 2nd Clutch Pressure Switch Circuit

P1739 Honda – Problem in 3rd Clutch Pressure Switch Circuit

Possible causes: Low transmission fluid level, 3rd Clutch Pressure Switch harness is open or shorted, 3rd Clutch Pressure Switch circuit poor electrical connection, Faulty 3rd Clutch Pressure Switch.

You are doing a great job. Keep it up sir. I am thorn between buying a 2010 model of either Toyota Camry or Vensa. Please advise me. Segun, 08023575xxx

They are both good models of Toyota brand, but I am torn between the two. It has to be your choice, I am sorry.

Sir, do you have any shop or office along Iyana-Iba to Badagry axis?  folatzzz@yahoo.com

The closest we have is in Ijanikin inside the Lube Bay of the NIPCO Petrol Station which is opposite the National Post Graduate Medical College along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

Please, I need your help. I want to buy a Toyota Prius but I see that it not common in Lagos. I want to know if it is a a good car. Please, advise me on how to strike a good bargain price for the 2011 model. Caleb Omotayo, omotayocaleb@hotmail.com.

It is a very good car, but with a small engine that is very good on gas. But most of them are hybrid system. And most of our technicians in Nigeria cannot proficiently work on hybrid cars. Importantly too, the maintenance and spare parts costs of hybrid cars are relatively prohibitive to conventional models.

I read your column and was impressed. Please, do you have a workshop at Conoil along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway after Alausa Secretariat Junction?

Also, I drive a Sangyong Musso 1998 model fused with a Mercedes Benz engine. I bought the vehicle in January, this year. When I bought it, I noticed that it leaks water from its exhaust. The car gets very hot when driving long distance like from Berger to Badagry. Sometimes ago, the propeller connecting the four wheels caught fire along Isolo. There are not lights on the dashboard except an orange-coloured light that comes on and disappears when the car is started. The light shows 4WD Low. What do you think is the problem? Thank you. Patrick, opc12003@yahoo.co.uk

We only have our Quick Service Branches (called Automedics Autocare) inside designated NIPCO Petrol Stations. Although we have a nationwide concession agreement with NIPCO Plc to use their stations’ lube bays to entrepreneurially empower the youth (male and female) who are alumni of the Automedics Automotive Mechatronics Training Institute. About thirty of them in the last four months, in seven branches across Lagos, now go home monthly with not less than N45,000 to N50,000. They are also equity owners with us and any investor can fund the particular centre where they work. And, importantly, they are subjected to continuous training to learn the rapid technological developments that are daily introduced in the global automotive industry. Nigerian motorists must really thank the visionary leadership of NIPCO Plc for obliging that platform at peanuts rates based on the fact that they want us to productively and profitably engage minimum of one hundreds Nigerian youths nationwide in the automotive maintenance/repair industry in the first year of this enterprise mentorship/development experimentation. On your technical question, I believe one of the bearings on the CV axle failed, which is a mechanical failure; not all mechanical failures will be picked up by the electronic monitoring system on some of this vehicles. Sometimes, some of the mechanical failures are noticed by your technician during a periodic maintenance examination during service.

I drive a Toyota 4 Runner 2001 model. Recently, I noticed the following lights on the dashboard: VSC track, VSC off, check lights and ABs light. I got the following codes after scanning the vehicle: PO 171, C0210, C1223 and C1246. Please kindly interpret them for me. 08123519xxx

P0171: With the Air/Fuel Mixture Ratio Self-Learning Control, the actual mixture ratio can be brought closely to the theoretical mixture ratio based on the mixture ratio feedback signal from the heated oxygen sensors 1. The Engine Control Module (ECM) calculates the necessary compensation to correct the offset between the actual and the theoretical ratios.

In case the amount of the compensation value is extremely large (The actual mixture ratio is too lean.), the ECM judges the condition as the fuel injection system malfunction and light up the Malfunction Indicator Light.

If the P0171 is combined with the P0174 code, it’s very likely that the problem is caused by an intake leak. If there are no intake leaks, the next step is to replaced the air filter and clean the air flow meter. If the problem persists, the front oxygen (O2) sensor may need to be replaced. Possible causes – Intake air leaks – Faulty front heated oxygen sensor – Ignition misfiring – Faulty fuel injectors – Exhaust gas leaks – Incorrect fuel pressure – Lack of fuel – Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor – Incorrect Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) hose connection.

The speed sensor detects wheel speed and sends the appropriate signals to the ECU. These signals are used to control the ABS control system. The front and rear rotors have 48 serrations each. C0210 Toyota – Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Signal Malfunctions. When the rotors rotate, the magnetic field emitted by the permanent magnet in the speed sensor generates AC voltage. Since the frequency of this AC voltage changes in direct proportion to the speed of the rotor, the frequency is used by the ECU to detect the speed of each wheel. Possible causes: Faulty Right Rear Speed Sensor, Right Rear Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Right Rear Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection, Right Rear Speed Sensor rotor, Sensor installation, Brake actuator (skid control ECU). C1223 Lamp Brake Warning Output Circuit Failure. C1249 Toyota – Open in Stop Light Switch Circuit

One, introduction to vehicle technology: engine types, cooling system and engine temperature, lubrication, transmission system, vehicle final drive and suspension system

Two, vehicle computer system and Electronic Control Units: engine control unit, transmission control unit, chassis control unit and body control unit.

Three, sensors and actuators: engine sensors and actuators, transmission sensors and actuators, chassis sensors and actuators, body sensors and actuators.

Four, basic vehicle electrical system: basic vehicle charging system, vehicle lighting system, relays, electrical connectors and fuses, electrical wiring connectors.

Five, diagnostic system: diagnostic system with particular reference to the powertrain, body, chassis and communication

Six, vehicle diagnostic sub-system: break-down of the four main classifications (Powertrain, body, chassis and communication) of vehicle diagnostic system to their constituent components. Powertrain (engine (emission and ignition), and transmission).

Body (immobiliser and intrusion controls; steering electrics; supplementary restraint system; instrument cluster; heater, ventilation and air-conditioning [HVAC] and climate control). Chassis (suspension electrics, ABS and break electrics). Communication (CAN (Controller Area Network), LIN (Local Inter-Connect Network) and other vehicle inter-connecting networks)

Seven, on-board diagnostic version two: the history of OBD II, diagnostic menu, reading the diagnostic codes, erasing codes and PIDs (Parameter Identifications: Generic and Diagnostic Equipment Manufacturers’ Specific PIDs)

Eight, types of diagnostic scanners and link connectors: try practical rehearsals with varied diagnostic tools platforms — ELM, C Reader V, Autoboss V30, Mercedes MB Star, Launch X431Master and Heavy-Duty, and more –that may be available to you, and with different automobiles.

Nine, practical diagnostics and basic component identification: learn practical vehicle lay-out and how to confidently use diagnostic tool menu. Also try to use the diagnostic tool for adaptation programming tasks.

NB: The Director General of National Automotive Council, Mallam Aminu Jalal, raised an issue, as reported in THE PUNCH of Wednesday, October, 30, 2013, that the nation is annually haemorrhaging more than a trillion naira on imported old and new cars and on spare parts and tyres. With rich rubber plantation and petrol chemical resources in the Niger Delta, it’s a shame that we are still expending about N150bn on the importation of tyres annually. And the N500bn that Jalal claimed we spend on spare parts annually should be a challenge to local industrialists and entrepreneurs.

REACTIONS TO AUTOMEDICS

 I want say thanks for the good work you are doing on automedics. I drive a Toyota Camry 2004 model. Can I can scan the error code on my dashboard with OBD II since it starts from 2006. I observe that the vehicle does not move as expected when I put its gear in drive. I like the vehicle and want to get it in a good shape as soon as possible. Thank you. 

You did not really state exactly what the problem is on your 2004 model Toyota Camry. But if you can get me the scan result I’ll be in a better position to help.

I am having some problems with my Toyota four runner Jeep 1999 model. It is showing ‘check light’ whenever it jerks. I have taken it to some mechanics but they have been unable to solve its problems. 08189799xxx

If the check sign is on, my advice is to run a scan on it. The result will guide me on how to better help you.

I will be glad if you can help me solve the problems I recently noticed with my Toyota Sienna 2006 model. Whenever I engage the car in drive, it starts sluggishly and gives an engine noise. Though it still selects gear properly after take-off, it is difficult to move on bad roads. My mechanic said it had gear problem which I couldn’t repair but replace. I want your advice. Ikechukwu, nnabude@yahoo.com

The problem is definitely a transmission problem based on your explanation, but I’ll advice you run a scan on it before you replace the transmission. The fault could be an electrical fault, but the result of the scan will guide on what to do, and how to go about it.

Is it advisable to use tyres of the same specification but different brands on the same car? Which affordable brands do you recommend? Thanks. 08166695xxx

Yes, it is okay as long as you are using it in pairs either two of the same in the front or in the rear.

I drive a Mazda 626 2000 model. Recently, it started to make a noise as if its plugs were bad. My mechanic changed the plugs but the problem persists. The latest issue about the vehicle is that whenever it makes a noise, the car wouldn’t move well and its ‘check engine’ sign has been permanently on since I bought the car.

At times, the meter beside the vehicle’s speedometer rises up to three or four before the car could move well. What do you think is wrong with the car and can I call you? 08023470xxx    

Yes you can call any of the numbers printed. But first of all, you need to run a scan on the vehicle.

The air conditioner of my Nissan Altima 2001 model stopped working after sometime. It started working again and later stopped. I replaced its thermostat but the problem persists. What do you think is the fault? 07062021xxx  

I believe the A/C control module is the faulty component. It is behind the climate control unit, replace it and your problem will be solved. Also, make sure your condenser fan is working okay and the fins are not clogged.

I appreciate all that you are doing on automedics. Where can one locate your workshops in Ibadan and Abuja? I drive a Peugeot 607 but I experience a lot of discomfort. I need your professional assistance to diagnose it. Sunday, Abuja, 08069352xxx                                                                                                          

Unfortunately I don’t have any shop in both locations you mentioned except Lagos.

I just changed the engine of my Camry 1993 model and its gear stopped selecting. Its ATF turns from white to brown. What do I do? 08182006xxx                                                                                                                                      

To start with, there is nothing like white ATF, it is reddish wine color, and if your transmission stops selecting, there must have been a problem with the installation of the engine. Let the person that did the installation double check the job.

A loud hissing noise always emanates from the front tyre sides of my Toyota Sienna 1999 model whenever I apply break. I do not know what is responsible for it.

First of all, go and check the condition of the brake pad, the noise sounds as if the wear sensor on the pad is warning you that the pads are worn out.

Do you have a workshop along lekki/Ajah axis? My Mitsubishi Jeep needs your professional attention. ‘Tunde Lanre, 08023060xxx                                                                                                         

Yes. Automedics Autocare is inside the Lube Bay of the NIPCO Filling Station, beside the Lagos Business School on the Lekki-Epe Expressway.

I read your article on the usage of electronics auto analyser. Can you please enlighten me further on the training? Thanks. Kayode Osinowo, 07086431xxx                                                                                                         

Call Gbola Oba on 08080806686

I drive a Volkswagen Passat turbo, 1999 model .The turbo is faulty. Is it repairable and where can I do it? Thanks. Uche, Ibadan, 08034184xxx

Yes you can repair turbo charger or buy one that is already rebuilt. I don’t know anywhere in Ibadan, but a couple of places in Lagos.

I drive Pathfinder Jeep 2003 model. I noticed “due for service” sign on the dashboard. I serviced the vehicle but the sign still shows. What do I do to stop it? Thanks. John Babalola

The sign can only be turned off manually by resetting the electronic counter.

I was shocked when I read in your column that engine oil must not be used in place of ATF.I drive a Nissan Pathfinder and the vehicle’s ATF leaks. I was advised by my mechanic to use engine oil. Is there any implication on the vehicle? Sade, 08033260xxx

The only thing you can do is to replace the fluid, but bear in mind that the oil could have caused internal damage to the transmission.

I drive Hyundai Elantra 2008 model but recently, it fails to speed. My mechanic said it was a plug problem. He changed it, taped parts of the plug coil but the car is still slow.  What do I do? 08085732xxx                                                                                                        

Please run a scan on it since it is a 2008 model.

I drive Honda Accord 2001 v6. Which ATF oil should I use? I have not changed the ATF since June last year. Thanks.  08033305xxx                                                                          

You can use any transmission fluid that meets this specification with Dextron III or Mecron quality.

I drive a Honda CRV 4wD without control nub or gear for the 4wd. Does it work with an auxillary gear. Thank u. Remi Olaniyan.

Yours is controlled automatically by the ECU, it depends on the signal it gets from the traction control system.

Please, how can one gauge the level of the transmission oil in the gear box of an ML 320? Emman Obe, Akute.

If it doesn’t have any dipstick, then it can only be gauged electronically (with a scanner or diagnostic tool).

I drive a Nissan Altima 2.5s. When the vehicle’s ‘service engine soon’ indicator light came on, I serviced the engine after driving it for 105km because I am always on the road.  Its indicator light is still on. What do I do? Bola, 07033988xxx

The “service engine soon” means that you need to run a scan on the car. It does not mean you need the conventional or regular service.

I drive a Honda Baby Boy 2001 model. I bought it almost one and half years ago. I just bought a complete engine and gear into it about two weeks ago. But when it is on motion, the accelerator meter does not go beyond four. I tried raising it beyond that but it always jerks before selecting. What could be the problem?  My mechanic said the vehicle’s brain box is the problem. Is it true? Should I buy another brain box? 07066556xxx                                                                                                         

Do not buy another ECU yet, but run a scan on the powertrain system first. It will give you an idea of what to do.

I drive a 2003 Acura MDX SUV. The A/T and the VTM indicators on the dashboard always come up after driving for awhile. What do l do, sir? Do you have any workshop in Akure, Ondo State? Adedayo, 08034711xxx                                                                                                        

No, I do not have workshop in Akure. But look for a place to run a scan on the transmission.

Penultimate Sunday, I wrote on this page that the copy of that day’s SUNDAY PUNCH would be the last copy to be used as ‘entry permit’ for the Abuja seminar. That, I must confess, turned out to be an incitement; as many called and sent text messages complaining that they couldn’t get that day’s copy and vehemently begged to be given another opportunity to pick another copy of the newspaper.

After consultation with my team, we decided that this edition’s SUNDAY PUNCH would serve as entry for the Saturday, November 16, 2013 one-day Abuja seminar. And for those who have taken the pain to accentuate the fact that they know next to nothing about automobile, the following are the three main sessions for the three categories of participants at the seminar.

(1) “Understanding your vehicle’s dashboard signs and free auto diagnosis, analysis and using the manufacturer’s workshop manual to prescribe maintenance/repair work”. This is for motorists who are coming with their automobiles. We know that once motorists can decipher the meanings of the warning signs on their vehicles’ dashboards, they’ll naturally get better value for money on their vehicular assets. Therefore, this session is designed to be practical, educational and entertaining. It’s like taking you through the owner’s manual of your vehicle in less than one hour. The icing on the cake will be the free diagnosis, analysis and using the manufacturer’s workshop manual to counsel you on what your mechanic should do to resolve any diagnosed problem. I’ve been told that detailed professional auto diagnosis costs N25, 000 in Abuja; then you should be thanking the management of PUNCH for allowing you get it literally for Free.

(2) “Basic Introduction to today’s automobiles’ computer-controlled systems.” This session is exclusively for auto technicians and do-it-yourself enthusiasts. The modern automobile is a moving computer on wheels and many of our folks who work on them tend to somewhat complicate their jobs by ironically wanting to speculate answer when a vehicle’s on-board diagnostic system has proffered an answer for the selfsame problem. This heavily audio-visually-aided session will show to mechanics how many of the electronically controlled systems of a modern vehicle work (and emphasis will be given to the EVAP system due to popular demand).

(3) “Career and self-enterprise development counseling in automotive mechatronics for school leavers and young graduates.” Many of our young graduates and school leavers (in both the sciences and liberal disciplines) don’t know that the greatest criterion needed to be skillfully and entrepreneurially empowered in this trade, apart from basic literacy, is passion. Wale Kapo, who presents the Automedics radio show on LOVE 104.5FM every Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in Abuja graduated two years ago. He studied History and International Relations from the Lagos State University. This same course was what Victoria Udofia studied at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State before she came to me. She is now a supervisory/management officer in the main garage of Affordable Motors (one of the major auto dealerships in Nigeria).

And I have the likes of Segun Fapuro and Samuel Bolanle, two team leaders or branch managers in the Automedics Autocare chain at Akoka and Lekki respectively, who were ex-bankers. Indeed, Ifedayo Famodimu, Elias Jideani, Abel Ojimah and Marvelous Ikpekhere, to mention just four out of over a thousand alumni of my skills and enterprise empowerment programme spread all over the country, studied Business Administration, Metallurgy and Material Science, Mechanical Engineering and ordinary JSS (not SSS ooo!) respectively. And I’ll gladly match them up with any automotive mechatronics technician or engineer from Detroit, Munich or Tokyo.

The good thing for me is that I also have the good word of the distinguished Director General of the National Automotive Council, Mallam Aminu Jalal, that the mother motoring agency will have an officer in attendance. I believe that in the backdrop of the drive of the Federal Government to encourage local production of automobiles, the agency will also use this interactive forum to let enquirers know the available training opportunities that a Nigerian can use to be occupationally and entrepreneurially relevant in the new scope of things.

The venue of the event is: Coconut Ranch Park and Garden, Off Coca-Cola Junction on the Airport Road in Jabi District. Time: 9am to 4pm. We look forward to meeting you there. Or, as my wards will say: “Let’s go there!”

Rats are eating up sensitive cables in my SUV. Please what do should I do?  Olayide, Egbeda, 08033357xxx

The only thing you can do is to change the location of where you park the vehicle at all times.

 I drive a Volkswagen Bora 1999 model. For the past one month, its fan belts have been cutting off. All pulleys and rollers have been checked but the problem persists. 08037071xxx

 If the drive belt keeps cutting while the engine is running, it means one of the pulleys is bent. Your mechanic has to do a thorough job on the pulleys.

 I drive qx4 2001 model. There is a rattle sound from the engine when I accelerate. What do you think is the cause? Kalu, Apapa, 08035655xxx

 If you notice any rattling noise while accelerating, my advice is that you should inspect it. This is because the rattling noise could be the beginning of a worn connecting/crankshaft bearing which will sound like a rattling/knocking sound.

 I drive a Toyota 4 Runner 2001 model. I recently noticed that it displays the following lights on its dash board: VSC track, VS Coff, and Airbag image lights. Also, its ABS and brake lights are still on, even when the mechanic changed the front brake pad. Please what do I do? Prince Olayinka, 08123519xxx.

The only option you have to find out why the lights/signs are on is to run a scan on the vehicle. Changing the pads does not solve the ABS problem. The result of the scan will give you an idea of what to do.

 I drive a Toyota Corolla 2003 model, American specs. I scanned the vehicle when its check light came up. These are the codes I got: P0770, Shift solenoid E and P0420, catalyst system efficiency below threshold bank 1. 08122735xxx

You need to confirm that the codes are not coming back after they were erased. Sometimes, these codes are stored codes that have been in the memory of the vehicle ECU. If the fault codes did not repeat after a couple of drive cycle, then you have nothing to worry about. But if the faults codes re-appear then these interpretation will guide you or your technician.

The P0770 code is detected when lock up does not occur when driving in the lock up range (normal driving at 80 km/h (50 mph), or lock up remains ON in the lock up OFF range. The ECM uses the signals from the Throttle Position Sensor and Air flow Meter to monitor the engagement condition of the lock up clutch. Then the ECM compares the engagement condition of the lock up clutch with the lock up schedule in the ECM memory to detect mechanical trouble of the shift solenoid valve SLU, valve body, torque converter clutch and automatic transmission assembly.

 Possible causes: Low transmission fluid level, dirty transmission fluid, faulty shift solenoid ‘E’ valve, shift solenoid ‘E’ valve harness is open or shorted, shift solenoid ‘E’ valve circuit poor electrical connection.

P0420 catalyst below threshold bank 2. What it means is that the catalytic converter is not performing the way it was designed to perform. And normally what causes this problem sometimes is the overheating of the catalytic converter due to lean or rich mixture, which causes the element to collapse or melt. As the code description implies, the P0420 code means that the vehicle’s control module has detected that the three-way catalytic converter is not working properly (is not as efficient as the factory is expecting). Replacing the oxygen (O2) sensors may sometimes fix the code, but in most cases the catalytic convert needs to be replaced to fix the problem. If the P0420 code is combined with other codes, try fixing the other codes first.

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the switching frequency ratio of heated oxygen sensors 1 (front O2 sensor) and heated oxygen sensors 2 (rear O2 sensor).

A three-way catalyst converter (Manifold) with high oxygen storage capacity will indicate a low switching frequency of heated oxygen sensor 2. As oxygen storage capacity decreases, the heated oxygen sensor 2 switching frequency will increase.

When the frequency ratio of heated oxygen sensors 1 and 2 approaches a specified limit value, the three way catalyst malfunction is diagnosed.

 I always read your column and enjoy it. I drive a Montero Sport 1999 model. A month ago, I noticed while in traffic that the vehicle’s temperature did not rise. It also goes off after 10 minutes. My mechanic said the problem was with the fuel pump. I changed it. There was no improvement. Another mechanic said the problem was with the vehicle’s crank and cam shaft sensor, I changed them too but no result. Please what do I? 07036029xxx

One question I would have loved to ask you is this, are those parts you replaced new, also did you run a scan on the engine at all? If not, please run a scan on the powertrain and also make sure the data stream is run to see how all the sensors and actuators are performing. Based on the result of the scanning your technician will have an idea on what to do.

 I am a young lady looking for a car for basic movements to work, church and drive around town. I am not sure which brand to buy. I like hatchback cars especially Peugeot. 307, 206, Toyota, Matrix and Yaris. Please advise me? 08034661xxx

What you need as a young lady is something good on fuel. I will pick the Matrix.

 Please, I want to confirm if a converted car can be scanned.08023040xxx

Yes it can be scanned provided the electrical systems are in order.

 I drive a Sienna Van 1998 model. I did a scan on it and got the code P0440 indicating ‘evaporative emission system’. Please, what does it mean? Its A/C has also stopped cooling. I have changed its compressor and filled the gas but the problem persists. Joy

P0440 is an indication of a leak in the evaporative emission system, most likely from the fuel cap. And the A/C that is not working could be related to some other parts like dryer, expansion valve, evaporator or even the compressor. Also, you could still have a leak in the system, while at it check the A/C wiring circuit.

 My Nissan Pathfinder Jeep 2002 model developed engine- oil shortage and emitted smokes after my mechanics changed its burnt gasket. Also, the automatic gear takes a longer time to change. I plan to replace both the engine and the gear. What do you advise I do? Thanks.08138812xxx

If the oil rings were affected when the engine overheated it could cause your engine to smoke. Also, your mechanic was supposed to replace the valve stem seals when the cylinder head gasket was replaced, because the seal would have been dry and brittle in the cause of overheating.

 I drive a Nissan Maxima 2000 model. It has refused to start. I checked its brain box and later spoke to a technician who told me that its key needed to be programmed. 08034452xxx

One  important  thing that you need to do on the vehicle is to run a scan on it. The result will guide you and your technician on what to do instead of guessing or speculating.

 I drive a 4runner limited jeep 1998 model. I parked it for about 11 months. I noticed recently that it was not starting. Please advise me? Vivien Budget

The vehicle is a Toyota 4runner, Jeep is different brand of SUV. You need to replace the battery with new one and also make sure rats did not feast on the wirings. Your technician should be able to handle this job.

 I drive a Nissan Pathfinder 2000 model which I bought this year. I parked it for about two months while using my other car. When I drove it recently, I discovered that its brakes are failing as a result of two rusted pipes leaking fluid. I replaced the pipes, bled the brake and even changed the ‘master’. But the problem persists. Also, the gears of the vehicle are not engaging properly.  I can only change gear after revving 5-6 rpm. What do I do? 08135290xxx

About the brake, I believe air is still trapped in the system, it needs to be bled very well. The technician can hydro bleed the brake system, which will make the brake firm. On the transmission, I will advise you to run a scan on it to determine exactly which area to work on.

 I have been driving a Toyota Camry 2001 model since five years ago. For almost a year now, I noticed that its head lamps (full light) are no longer bright. I was advised to clean the casing of the lamp. I did this without any improvement. I should let you know that I have a good eye sight. Thanks. Olumuyiwa Sotonwa, 08033196xxx

The only thing you can do about the headlamp is to change the light assembly with a new assembly. The reflector in your old light is weak.

 I want you to advise me on my Toyota Sienna 1999 model which overheats frequently. I have changed its radiator three times. 08028140xxx

I believe your mechanic has not discovered the actual reason the engine is overheating. He probably didn’t check the cylinder head surface for warpage and cracks. Doing some of the things above will likely solve the problem. Also, he needs to replace the water pump.

 I want to thank you for the good works you are doing on automedics. I drive a Toyota Camry 2004 model. Can I scan the error code on my dash board with OBD II since it starts from 2006? Also, I observe that my car does not move as it should whenever I put its gear in drive. I love Toyota brands and want you to assist me to rectify the fault with my car. Omotosho

OBD II starts from 1996 not 2004. Yes, you can run the scan on it. The result will guide you on what to do about the transmission.

 I want you to advise me on my golf 3. Its automatic gear is not selecting. Should I buy a new one? 08034536xxx

 Before you buy another transmission let a scan be run on the vehicle. The result of the diagnosis will tell if you need to get another transmission. Also, if any repair is carried out on the fuel/electrical system and re-adaptation of the system is not done, it could trigger the problem you are facing.

 I drive a Mercedes Benz c240, 2001 model. Anytime I accelerate suddenly to overtake a vehicle, it would stop responding to the accelerator after the initial surge. It will also start to vibrate as if the plugs are bad. But after stopping and switching off the engine, the car will resume normally. Please help tell me what to do. 08033017xxx

 I believe the fuel system needs to be examined very well. With your explanation, it sounds as if there is dirt in the fuel tank, which clogs up the fuel strainer and affects the performance of the fuel pump. But a scan can be run on the engine and any lean mixture code is an indication of fuel system fault.

 I drive Audi A6 1999. I love the car but I need a technician to work on it. Is there a garage in Ikeja that you can recommend? Thanks. Lanre, 08098096xxx

We have two locations in Ikeja: There is one inside the Lagos Television Complex, opposite Coca cola on Lateef Jakande Rd, Agidingbi. The other one is on 10-14, Morrison Crescent, off Kudirat Abiola Way, Alausa, Ikeja.

 I drive a Mercedes Benz ML350 2004 model. It keeps moving out of gear while on motion. I have checked its transmission fluid and it is not leaky. 08129677xxx

Please run a scan on the transmission of the vehicle. The result of the scan will guide us on what to do.

 I drive a Toyota Camry 1999 model. I changed the two front hubs and my mechanic severed a wire attached to the right hub and I told him to join it back. But driving after the repairs, l noticed the ABS indicator showing on the dashboard. What do l do now? 08033692xxx

 The ABS sensor will have to be replaced. The wire that was joined could be creating too much resistance which will affect the signal being sent to the ECU.

 I have a problem with my car AC. I need your advice. 08169606xxx

You did not specify the brand, model, year and the exact problem you are facing with the vehicle.

 I drive a Camry Xle 2003 model. Is there any effect of ‘ time security’ that cuts of the fuel supply on the engine? Dele Oyewole, 08023215xxx

The only effect of that type of aftermarket security is that when the system starts to malfunction, it could happen where you don’t want to be. I will rather advise you to stay with the vehicle’s original OEM security.

 Smokes suddenly came out of my Almera Tino 2003 model. I called a technician who checked out some wires but since then, the vehicle has been unable to start. Kingsley, 08065774xxx.

Your electrician needs to find out what causes the short circuit for it to be smoking under the dash. I also believe someone must have compromised the fuses which acts as the circuit breaker for the electrical system of the vehicle.

On the morning of Thursday, November, 21, 2013, a gentleman walked into my office and he specifically requested to see me. It was a particularly a busy morning for me (Thursday is the deadline day of the week to turn in the content for this column and until I’ve emailed the piece to the editor I always lock myself up to meet the deadline).

His “stubborn” resolve to see me, according to my staff member who came to call me where I secluded myself, was as a result of a “life and death issue.” “Life and death?” I asked. As I walked up to the man who was pointed to me, I noticed that his spirit and countenance were lifted. “Engr. Kunle Shonaike, thank you for seeing me, I’m Barrister….” (I shall deliberately abstain from mentioning names and locations that may negatively affect the perturbing case he intimated me with)

“I came all the way from (one of Nigeria’s historic cities) to consult with you in your position as Nigeria’s most respected and best known automotive engineer on a case. Sir, is it right for a 2012 Sports Utility Vehicle, bought new from a licensed dealer in Nigeria, not to have a single airbag deployed after it was involved in an accident, which led to the death of ….” I simply said: “That’s not possible! I doubt if any respectable manufacturer in the world would make any vehicle in 2012, indeed in 2002 (10 years ago), without airbag”

“I have news for you then,” he retorted “I’m taking up a case of a 2012 SUV of so-so-and-so brand that was involved in a fatal accident and no single airbag deployed!” I shouted, “My brother, that’s a lie! It’s industry-standard anywhere in the world for the two front airbags (that’s the driver’s and front passenger’s airbags) to be there. I dare say that in that particular vehicle, I’ll expect about twelve airbags to deploy in a major accident.”

This was when he brought out pictures of a mashed up vehicle and said “Engineer, not a single one deployed in this accident”. I’m still shocked and I find the story incredible still. But the question that kept dogging me is: Standard Organisation of Nigeria and the National Automotive Council, can it be true that a 2012 SUV sold in Nigeria didn’t come with airbags?

READERS’ REACTIONS

I just bought a Sienna 1999 model. I had changed its battery thrice in seven weeks. What do you think is the problem? Olajide, 08023581xxx

If the battery was replaced three times within two months definitely the charging system of your van is faulty or you have a short circuit in the charging system. Only your electrician can determine what to do after physical examination, but I believe the alternator might have to be replaced.

I appreciate you for your great work for motorists on this column. I saw a Volvo S80 which I want to buy. But I detected the following after examining it: Faulty Airflow Metre and A/C.  Would you advise me to buy it based on maintenance cost and spare parts availability? 08025099xxx

If it is a vehicle you like, you can go for it. Its air flow metre can be replaced while the A/C can be worked on. I do not have an idea of its maintenance cost but I believe it’s not that bad. The advice I will give you is to make sure the vehicle is thoroughly examined before you pay for it.

I drive a Ford Explorer 2004 model. I saw the vehicle’s OD light flashing on the dashboard. What is the implication and how do I rectify it. Sola, 08027665xxx

The O/D flashing is an indication of a fault inside the transmission. You will need to run a scan on it to find out exactly what the problem is.

I drive a Toyota Camry 2007 model. Its engine oil dries up quickly and it’s not due for servicing. What do I do? 08034296xxx

If the engine oil dries up all the time, it means the engine smokes; which could be as a result of faulty oil rings or valve stem seals.

I drive a Passat 2.0. Its battery drains after 24 hours every day while its alternator charges. Please advise me on what to do. 08036153xxx

If the battery runs down overnight everyday it is as a result of large parasitic drain on the battery. It’s possible you have short circuit in the wiring harness. Your electrician will have to do draw test to find out which circuit is the problem.

I want to buy my first car. Should I buy a Murano, QX4, Highlander 05, Honda Accord 2009 or corolla 2008 model? Emeka, 08024542xxx

It depends on what you like, but if I have to pick, I will take between the Highlander and QX4 SUV or for car will be Corolla then Honda in this other.

I drive a Nissan Pathfinder 1989 model which I bought last year. Each time I drive it for a few miles, its two front rims become hot. I have serviced it but the situation persists. What should I do? 08079353xxx

The reason the wheels get so hot is because the front brake is binding, the most common possible cause is faulty flex hose and master cylinder.

The result of the scan I did on my Acura MDX 2005 model shows the following: System select abs, total codes 006..17-01 left rear wheel speed sensor open or short.61-0, 1 battery voltage failure, 68-01 brake switch failure.83-01 ecm/pcm relation failure.86-01 can relation failure.112-01 internal power source failure. System select TpMS 11-01 Rf tyre low air pressure, 13-01 Lf tire low air pressure.15-01 RR tyre low air pressure, 17-01 LR tire low air pressure, 32-01 RF tyre pressure sensor transmission failure, 45-01 Initiator circuit short detection, system select VTM-4 52-01 L clutch coil failure, and 78-01 VTM-4 ctrl unit failure..What is the implication of all these codes on the vehicle? Victor, Surulere, 08125084xxx

The implication of driving this vehicle with all the codes showing will be poor transmission performance, the ABS system is deactivated and very bad fuel consumption.

What are your views on the expiration dates for tyres in an economy like ours? Charles, Abuja, 08137442xxx

Please check out my past column online about tyre expiration date.

Is it advisable to buy a Toyota Camry 2008 model having a minor dent at one of its sides? Also, do you recommend changing radiator of second hand cars from single cell to double cells as soon as they are bought? Thank you. Mide, 08033344xxx

If the accident is not much, yes you can buy the car. But I do not support the idea of changing from double cell to single cell radiator.

I drive a Honda CRV 1998 model. I discovered that its power steering oil leaks from the right side. Its steering is also not working well. Please advise me? Thanks. Emeka, 08023214xxx

All you have to do is fix the leak and the steering will work okay.

I noticed that my Toyota Camry is difficult to start anytime I buy fuel. What do I do? Thanks. Titus, 08023077xxx

The Evap system purge valve is faulty. That is the reason you have hard starting. The cause of this problem is as a result of over filling the fuel tank. You allow raw fuel to go into the Evap system which is only designed for fuel vapour pressure. Run a scan on the powertrain system.

I drive a Toyota Carina, hatch back, 1995 model. I noticed that in the last two weeks, the car usually veers off the road on its own when I am driving… 08032230xxx

Though I didn’t see all your text message, but I believe you need a proper inspection on the steering and front suspension parts. Some of these parts are faulty and they need replacement.

I drive a Landrover Freelander v6 2001 model. The oil of the vehicle is always been topped after a driving a long distance. Can you give me the address of a qualified mechanic that can ring it within Ikorodu/Ketu axis? Or where the original rings could be purchased in Lagos state? Thanks. T T Kuyebi, 08099858xxx

Please come to our location inside the LTV Complex in Agidingbi.

I drive Volvo XC 90, 2010 model. It suddenly stopped working in motion about four months ago. The car was towed to my mechanic workshop who said its cam shaft, oil pump and fuel pump need to be replaced. I ordered the parts from Volvo in the USA because I bought the car from there. I am not sure the vehicle was properly worked on. Can recommend a good Volvo workshop in Lagos for me? Thank you. Wole, 08025017xxx

You can visit our workshop inside LTV Complex in Agidingbi.

I drive a 2005 dodge caravan. I changed its gear about three months ago. But is has not been working well. I did a scan and got the following codes; P0700, P0443, P0499 and P0403. Please help me to interpret them. 08153579xxx

Since the P0700 is just an informative code, check the TCM for more codes to resolve the problem. The transaxle Control Module (TCM) monitors the malfunction of sensors and actuators relating to transaxle control. When the TCM detects a malfunction with the control, a signal is send to the Engine Control Module (ECM) to trigger the Engine Light or Service Engine Soon light. The ECM stores the P0700 code and it means the TCM detected a malfunction with the transaxle controls.

Possible causes: Shorted or open circuit within Transmission Control Module (TCM), Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM).

P0443 The Evaporative Emission System (EVAP) canister purge volume control solenoid valve uses a ON/OFF duty to control the flow rate of fuel vapour from the EVAP canister. The EVAP canister purge volume control solenoid valve is moved by ON/OFF pulses from the Engine Control Module (ECM). The longer the ON pulse, the greater the amount of fuel vapour that will flow through the valve.

Possible causes: Faulty Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Purge Solenoid Control, Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Purge Solenoid Control harness is open or shorted, EVAP Solenoid Control circuit poor electrical connection

P0403 Early Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems components include and EGR Valve, and Engine Control ?odule (EC?) Controlled Vacuum Switch Valve or EGR Solenoid and an EGR Vacuum ?odulator. Depending on the engine and driving conditions, the EC? will control the EGR Solenoid which will operate the EGR Vacuum ?odulator to regulate the opening and closing of the EGR Valve.

The EGR system on recently built vehicles uses a step motor to control the flow rate of EGR from exhaust manifold. This motor has four winding phases. It operates according to the output pulse signal of the EC?. Two windings are turned ON and OFF in sequence. Each time an ON pulse is issued, the valve opens or closes, changing the flow rate. When no change in the flow rate is needed, the EC? does not issue the pulse signal. ? certain voltage signal is issued so that the valve remains at that particular opening.

Possible causes: Faulty EGR volume control solenoid valve, EGR volume control solenoid valve harness is open or shorted, EGR volume control solenoid valve circuit poor electrical connection, EGR temperature sensor and circuit

Please, which is the most rugged among Sienna, Pathfinder and CRV? 08112819xxx

You can pick and choose in this order: Xterra, Pathfinder, CRV, Sienna and MPV. But you will still have problems with suspension and steering parts from time to time because of our bad roads.

I drive a Toyota Camry 2007 model. I scanned the vehicle as it showed ‘engine check and VSC track/off.’ The sensor on the wheel hobs was cleaned. The signs disappeared but reappeared after driving for some kilometres. Please, what do I do? 07035489xxx

You need to furnish me with the scan result (codes) for interpretation.

Sir, apart from the harmful effects of catalytic converter, what is its function? 08028979xxx

The catalytic converter’s other function is better fuel management.

Once in a while, the engine of my Mar ML 320 stops running when in a traffic or if I run into a bump on the road. Though if I restarted it at once, it responded but it took longer than necessary. I think something is wrong. What do you think the problem is? 08032292xxxLet your mechanic check your fuel pump for loose connection, or clogged filter and also check the crank sensor.

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Contact: editor@punchng.com

Today’s topic is borne out of the opinion expressed in one of the text messages that came in as responses to last Sunday’s piece, which detailed how the airbags of a 2012 SUV bought brand new in Nigeria failed to deploy in a fatal accident. This led to the loss of lives of the driver and two of the passengers in the vehicle at the time of the accident!  The text message, which you can read in the interactive section underneath, stated that maybe the airbags didn’t deploy because the people in the car didn’t fasten their seat belts.

The airbags, which are collectively a group of life-saving devices in a modern vehicle’s Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), are unique in the way they’re deployed. But before going ahead to summarily explain the science of how airbags work, let me tell you a little story of a “confession” made to me by one of my technicians when I returned back from the US.

“Sir, let me confess what I did in your absence to Sunday’s (one of his colleagues) car. I put it on the (two-post) lift and I was hitting the hammer on the brake disc, we just heard ‘gbooaaaa!’ We saw that it was the airbag on the driver’s side that came out because I was hitting the hammer on the brake disc. I remembered that you always told us that any time we needed to do something on any modern automobile we should remove the battery heads and discharge the residual current by…”

The airbag doesn’t depend on the seat belt (or specifically the sensor that activates it) to activate, it has its own “crash sensors” located in strategic parts of the vehicle’s body. As soon as any of the sensors registers an impact, it automatically sends information (in a millionth of a minute) to the ECM, which then triggers the “class C explosive” or “gunpowder” (a kind of a “light bomb”) that shoots out the airbag(s).

The seat belt only restrains the driver or passenger from charging forward to collide with the airbag that’s deploying (which is like an exploding bomb) at the speed of light! That’s why children under 12 must not be seated or carried on any of the front seats of a moving vehicle. Therefore, it’s wrong for anybody to presume that when the seat belt is not fastened the airbags will not deploy.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com