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Today’s battery requirements

Consistent testing, customer education can boost your bottom line as seasons change

By Nancy Dunham

COURTESY OF ODYSSEY BATTERY Make sure you consistently test every customer’s battery, especially as summer heats up.

MMany of your customers likely don’t realize Kohler, marketing manager, Odyssey Battery. that the batteries in their cars have little in “ ey will expect them to start, but many won’t.” common with auto batteries of years past. at jibes with a 2017 J.D. Power Report. DurO er them expertise and an assortment of prod- ing that year, without driving disruptions, 44% ucts and your shop could get a slice of what IBIS- more auto battery failures were reported in 2017 World reported reports is the $13 billion market. than in 2016. Batteries are the most frequently reAlthough the recent COVID-19 pandemic has placed auto component, the report noted. disrupted supply chains and automobile sales, many believe the demand for automotive batter- WIDE-OPEN OPPORTUNITY ies will only grow. Many auto owners don’t realize that the electrical ey predict shoppers eventually will take ad- demand on car batteries has resulted in shorter vantage of low-interest nance rates to buy cars. lives and no warning of battery failure. Many car owners also will nd their auto batteries “Batteries used today are completely di erare dead due to lack of use during the quarantine. ent than those used 20 or 25 years ago,” says Jim “Interestingly enough, one of the things that O’Hara, vice president of marketing, Clore Auwe as manufacturers have in the back of our tomotive. “You needed very little power o that minds is when all these people who haven’t driv- battery, which was primarily used to start the en in weeks go out to start their cars,” says Alan vehicle and run the lights.” 38

Although owners of late-model cars enjoy heated seats, sophisticated infotainment systems, lane departure systems and other features, they don’t connect them with the car battery. Even start-stop systems and hybrids may have negative impacts on batteries, he said.

“What is their long-term impact on batteries?” said O’Hara. “We don’t know yet.”

Car owners also don’t realize that only driving their vehicles occasionally or taking them on short trips are among the other actions that drain batteries.

EDUCATION IS KEY The best way for repair shops to educate customers is to offer free testing for every automobile they service. This allows technicians to explain battery life spans and develop customer loyalty, says O’Hara.

“I think that it’s essential for technicians to test every battery to maximize the return for the customer,” he explains.

“But when you get into the electrical side, so much goes into diagnosing and repairing complex systems, I think it’s very important that technicians are well-trained on the basics, know the service information and understand the wiring schematics.”

Offering a “good, better, best” array of batteries is a selling point, especially if they are customized for the environment and the drivers’ road habits.

And it’s important to remind customers that there are many factors, including driving style and environment, that play into battery life, adds Odyssey’s Kohler. That will often ease their concerns when you ask them multiple questions about their cars and driving habits.

“Most consumers tend to connect cold weather with battery replacement but it’s important to educate them on the fact that batteries hate extremely hot temperatures, as well as extreme cold temperatures, just like people do,” says Dave Hobbs, senior field technical training, Delphi Technologies.

“So, as summer approaches, marketing that is aimed to educate motorists to that fact could be helpful. The three most common vehicle systems that fail in the summer — air conditioning, cooling systems and batteries — are essential to keeping you comfortable and your vehicle reliable.”

Using a quality voltmeter, check battery charge with ignition off. Also check with the engine running to verify that the alternator is charging the battery. Avoid budget volt meters that can provide false readings.

Even when you explain the reasons for battery replacement, though, some customers will wave off recommendations. ‘You will always find people who say they don’t want to spend for the best of something,” says Odyssey’s Kohler.

“And they say ‘Well, I don’t want to spend that type of money. What’s the next best option? What can I get away with?’ Or they might say they’re selling their car in six months or, ‘I can get it cheaper somewhere else.’ That’s why education is so important.

“Some customers will (persist in saying) ‘I don’t care. I want the cheaper one.’ And it’s important to accept that.”

TRAINING YOUR TECHS Delphi’s Hobbs says there are plentiful ways to help ensure that techs understand battery nuances.

“With hybrid vehicles becoming more popular over the past few years, the traditional symptoms that lead to battery testing and replacement can be quite different,” he explains.

“Typical hybrids today use a conventional lead acid 12-volt battery for lighting and ignition, referred to as L.I. batteries, compared to SLI (starting, lighting and ignition) with conventional vehicles.”

Add to that the possibility of servicing vehicles with dual batteries and other sophisticated engineering and it’s clear why training is essential.

Technicians should also consider customers’

“Most consumers tend to connect cold weather with battery replacement, but it’s important to educate them on the fact that batteries hate extremely hot temperatures, as well as extreme cold temperatures, just like people do,” says Dave Hobbs, senior field technical training, Delphi Technologies.

COURTESY OF DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES

driving styles and environments. For example, Kohler says that batteries built with pure lead last longer in desert environments.

“A recycled battery has dissimilar elements that make up the battery, the plates,” he adds. “So, they are always reacting with each other and literally discharge on their own.”

Anna Hung, product specialist for batteries, Robert Bosch GmbH, urges repair shops to recommend high-quality absorbent glass matt (AGM) batteries, especially in frigid environments. “AGM batteries are well-known for longer life than conventional flooded batteries under extreme weather, especially when it comes to starting a car in cold weather,” she says.

“When looking for an AGM battery, make sure it is 100% maintenance-free and offers constant power even for short trips, stop-and-go traffic or high consumption in stationary mode.”

Although techs need the education to provide reliable recommendations, Hobbs notes that sophisticated battery testing equipment provides solid backups. It also increases customers’ confidence in the advice you provide.

“Many provide the result in printed form, for customers who may not be as technically savvy as others,” adds Jason Searl, vice president of product management, Clarios.

He says results also can be emailed to customers. “We’re also developing next-generation tools 40

that can be adopted by different aftermarket and other channels so technicians ask the right questions to determine how people use their vehicles. Based on the algorithm, it helps find the right battery for that person, so the customer isn’t oversold or undersold.”

PUT THE PLAN IN PLACE There are great opportunities for shops with testers and educated techs, perhaps motivated by spiffs, to increase profits and customer loyalty. A solid plan to consistently test batteries is vital, though, to reap the benefits.

“We’ve seen a good amount of auto retailers providing free battery check services and waiving installation charges if a consumer purchases a battery through their stores or online,” says Hung. “This is a great strategy for shops looking to attract battery work and to increase longer-term customer loyalty.

“The most effective thing shops can do as we head into the summer months is to check the battery on every vehicle that comes in, regardless of the service the customer is there for.”

Unless your customers consistently seek oil changes and other routine maintenance, they might not see you on a regular basis unless their vehicles break down, according to Hobbs, who adds that this is an opportunity to display your shop’s expertise and win loyal customers.

“Many fast lube places don’t add battery testing to their list of recommended services. This means that cold weather slow crank/no crank conditions are the most common prompts to get the vehicle owner into their repair shop for battery testing and replacement.

“With hybrid vehicles becoming more popular over the past few years, the traditional symptoms that lead to battery testing and replacement can be quite different.”

Make sure you consistently market the service and test every customer’s battery, say experts.

“Offering free testing is basically saying to the consumer, ‘We are giving you a great thing for free. Now, I’ll give you my advice,’” notes Searl. “If the tech tells them the first few times that they don’t need to replace the battery, then show them when they do, that builds loyalty.

“You have earned their trust. You now have trusted adviser status. That’s what everyone strives to achieve.” ■

PRIUS PRIUS UPDATE Some 2010 to 2015 Toyota Prius, 2012-2016 Prius PHV and 20122016 Prius V vehicles equipped with a 2ZR-FXE engine may exhibit a MIL on with DTCs P2111 (throttle actuator control system) and P0A0F (engine failed to start) present when ambient temperatures are below 23 degrees Fahrenheit. This intake manifold assembly has been improved, and the ECM logic has been modified to reduce the possibility of this condition.

Check the part number of the intake manifold. This can be found on top of intake runner #4. If the current P/N is 17120-37090, do not replace the intake manifold, as this P/N represents the improved manifold.

Note: According to Toyota, the ECM should not be replaced as part of this fix. The ECU should be recalibrated with the new calibration ID, available from Toyota. Check the P/N of the ECU. If the new P/N is found, there is no need to replace the ECU.

INTAKE MANIFOLD

Previous P/N New P/N 17120-37050 17120-37090 17120-37051 17120-37052 17120-37053 17120-37054

NEW ECU P/N

89660-47305 (2010 Prius) 89660-47434 (2011 Prius) 89660-47513 (2012-2013 Prius) 89660-47752 (2014-2015 Prius) 89660-47404 (2012-2013 Prius V) 89660-47682 (2014 Prius V) 89660-47621 (2015-2016 Prius V) 89660-47592 (2012-2013 Prius PHV) 89660-47741 (2014-2015 Prius PHV)

BUICK STUCK BRAKE PEDAL This bulletin applies to 2010-2015 Buick LaCrosse and 2011-2015 Regal vehicles. In “rare cases,” the brake pedal may not raise or may seem stuck down during a normal braking event. The condition may occur in high temperature and humidity conditions and may not be repeatable. Brake lights will remain on and brakes may drag after the pedal is released. A pop, click or snap noise may be heard when the pedal is applied or released. If the concern is intermittent, allow the vehicle to idle for 30 minutes on max heat and floor mode to try to induce the concern.

The condition may be due to a bind in the brake pedal pivot bushing. If this condition is verified, replace the brake pedal arm. Be sure to use the two new retaining clips that accompany the new brake pedal arm.

FORD ECOBOOST PAN LEAK Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an oil leak from the engine oil pan RTV seal. After removing the oil pan, it is suggested to allow the crankcase to drain overnight to minimize the chance of residual oil contaminating the crankcase sealing rail.

Remove all traces of old RTV and clean the sealing surfaces with Motorcraft Metal Brake Parts Cleaner, then wipe with Motorcraft Metal Surface Prep Wipes and allow to air dry. If possible, allow the new RTV sealant to cure for four hours before refilling the engine with oil. This applies to 2017-2018 Lincoln Continental, MKX and MKZ vehicles and 2015-2018 Ford Edge, F-150 and Fusion vehicles.

PORSCHE PORSCHE BRAKE CLICK This bulletin applies to 2014 to present Porsche 911 Turbo/ Turbo S vehicles. Some customers have reported a clicking noise at slow speeds. Due to tolerances on some of the parts connecting the brake disc to the mounting plate, small relative movements between these parts can occur. As a result, a clicking noise can be heard when the brakes are applied at low speeds.

The 911-II rotors have a slightly different design for the attachment of the rotor hat to the disc, starting with model year 2017. These rotors are retro-fittable on the 991 generation I vehicles. Before rotors are replaced, it is necessary to check the mating surfaces of the wheels with a straight edge (12-inch Starrett 380) Using a feeler gauge, check wheel mating surface flatness in at least six positions. to ensure flatness of the surface. Imperfections in the surface may have an influence on the rotor and can cause noise. It is necessary to check for flatness in about six different positions around the mating surface (roughly every 60 degrees). The mating surfaces at the outer and inner areas of the mounting circle need to be checked for flatness. The recessed area in-between is not part of the measurement. Use a feeler gauge that is very thin. The .05 mm thickness is probably going to be necessary to find the uneven areas. Record all measurements.

Ensure that the center locking wheel bolt is properly lubricated in accordance to workshop manual 440519. Ensure that all mating surfaces are clean and free of debris. When torqueing the wheel bolts, make sure that the vehicle is off the ground. Use a torque wrench in one sweeping motion, not an intermittent jerky motion. The new rotor part numbers are listed here (991-II rotors) Front left................. 991.351.407.06 Front right............. 991.351.408.06 Rear left.................. 991.352.409.07 Do not take measurements across Rear right................991.352.410.07

the recessed holes.

42 ASP June 2020

INFINITI INFINITI FLAT-TOW LIMITATIONS This bulletin released by Infiniti applies to all of the maker’s vehicles but also applies to others as well, regarding flat-towing. Failure to follow these guidelines can result in severe transmission or drivetrain damage. 4WD/AWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmission (including CVT and Hybrid powertrain): • Do not flat tow (will damage internal transmission components) • Do not use a tow dolly (will damage drivetrain components) • FWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmission (including CVT and Hybrid): • Do not flat tow (will damage internal transmission components) • An appropriate vehicle tow dolly must be placed under the vehicle’s front wheels. RWD vehicles equipped with automatic transmission (including Hybrid): • Do not flat-tow (will damage internal transmission components) • An appropriate dolly must be placed under the rear wheels 2WD vehicles equipped with a manual transmission: • Flat-tow with the manual transmission in neutral. • Always flat-tow a manual transmission vehicle facing forward. • Maximum speed while flat towing: 60 mph. • After towing for 500 miles, stop. Start and idle the engine with the transmission in neutral for two minutes to avoid damaging the transmission.

CHRYSLER RAM JAM Chrysler is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, all equipped with an automatic transmission and a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for long periods when the engine is running and in PARK may cause the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position.

With the pin in the open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key in the ignition.

CHEVROLET VETTE AIR BAG RECALL General Motors is recalling certain 2019 Corvette ZR1 models. Hard braking or acceleration may cause the sensing diagnostic module (SDM) to enter a fault state.

As a result, the Corvette’s SDM will not provide crash sensing or deploy the necessary air bags in the event of a crash.

JEEP OIL CAPACITY AND DRAIN-BACK RATE This bulletin applies to 2020 Jeep Gladiator, 2016-2020 Grand Cherokee and 2018-2020 Wrangler vehicles, all equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar Upgrade engine, with regard to checking engine oil level after oil filling.

The customer may note that after an oil change, they check their oil level and it is showing an overfill on the oil dipstick.

The 3/6L Pentastar Upgrade engine typically uses a small oil pan for most applications versus the 3.6L Pentastar Classic engine, resulting in an engine oil capacity of 5 quarts for the Upgrade engine. Of particular note: The 3.6L Pentastar Upgrade engine has a slower oil drain-back rate. After filling the engine to the correct oil capacity per specifications listed in the service information, the oil level may show a low condition on the dipstick due to the slower drain-back rate. This may prompt the person performing the oil change to add more oil. Engine crankcase overfilling can occur if not enough time is allowed for the oil to drain back into the pan sump. DO NOT add more oil than specified in the service information. When identifying a 3.6L Pentastar Upgrade engine, the Upgrade engine has an EGR cooler mounted to one of the cylinder heads, and a variable valve lift (VVL) solenoid on the front of each valve cover.

Note an exception to the above information — 2016-to-current Jeep Grand Cherokee equipped with a 3.6L Upgrade engine has a unique oil pan size and configuration that provides an engine oil capacity of six quarts.

SUBARU SUBARU DTC

This bulletin applies to 2014-2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid (HEV) vehicles where DTC P0A1D is found. This code may be found in memory even when there is no trouble with the hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM). The cause is a very intermittent communication error between the SSM4 and the HPCM. Follow the steps provided below to prevent misdiagnosis before using the SSM4 Generic OBD II function. • Check the HPCM Turn the ignition switch to OFF and wait 30 seconds. If DTC P0A1D is detected, replace the HPCM. If the code was not found, the circuit has returned to a normal condition at this time. Reproduce the failure and perform diagnosis again. • Turn the ignition switch to the ON position, perform the clear memory mode and read the DTC again. • If after completing these steps, P0A1D does not reset, the HPCM is OK and does not need to be replaced.

Autel has expansion package for ADAS calibration system Autel Intelligent Technology Corp. has released an expansion package for its portable MA600 ADAS Calibration System. The MA600CAL1 package expands coverage from lane departure warning (LDW), included in the standard package, to blind spot monitoring (BSM), park assist and adaptative cruise control (ACC) radar-based systems, Mercedes vehicles’ night vision systems and around view monitoring (AVM) and rear collision warning (RCW) camera systems. The package features a corner reflector (radar), Mercedes night vision calibrator, RCW patterns for Volkswagen, Mercedes and Nissan vehicles and AVM patterns for Cadillac and Honda vehicles.

AUTEL INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGY CORP. LTD. WWW.MAXISYSADAS.COM

Arnott has air suspension compressor Arnott Industries has introduced an air suspension compressor for the 2000-2005 Cadillac Deville and 1998-2004 Cadillac Seville. Compressor P-3021 is built to OE specifications, it connects directly into the vehicle’s air lines and electrical connector. It includes a mounting bracket, valve block and intake air hose in order to ensure a fast installation. The product features an integrated dryer unit, thermal overload protection and an electro-plated finish to prevent corrosion.

ARNOTT INDUSTRIES WWW.ARNOTTINDUSTRIES.COM

OTC drum and rotor puller The OTC 6980 drum and rotor puller from Bosch Automotive Service Solutions helps technicians easily remove rusted, frozen or stuck drums and rotors. Bosch says the 2-jaw puller makes quick work of stuck components, pulling with up to 7 tons of force. The puller handles large compo46

nents such as brake drums, rotors, drive wheels, gears, flywheels, and pulleys. One person can easily set the tool in place and use for tough pulls even where there is little access to insert the jaws. Features include a spread to 12-3/4 inches and 5 inches of reach, and it weights less than 10 pounds. It also can be used with air tools to reduce time and fatigue.

BOSCH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE SOLUTIONS WWW.OTCTOOLS.COM

CRP Automotive offers Pentosin ATFs CRP Automotive has introduced a line of Pentosin automatic transmission fluids (ATFs) for domestic, European and Asian vehicles. Available for popular models that utilize ZF and Aisin AW automatic transmissions, CRP Automotive offers Pentosin ATF 5, Pentosin ATF 6, Pentosin ATF 8, Pentosin ATF 9, and Pentosin ATF 44. Pentosin ATFs are specially formulated to meet the individual design and technical requirements of specific transmission types.

CRP AUTOMOTIVE WWW.CRPAUTOMOTIVE.COM

Continental display helps sell wiper blades Continental Corp.’s floor display is part of the company’s ClearContact Premium Beam Wiper Blade program. Designed to deliver maximum application coverage with minimal inventory, the free display (CC901) comes with a total of 70 front wiper blades — five each of 14 SKUs in the ClearContact Premium Beam Wiper Blade line. It also includes a printed application guide and a colorful countermat. The new ClearContact floor display requires a minimal footprint.

CONTINENTAL CORP. WWW.CONTINENTAL-CLEARCONTACT.COM

Robinair has A/C recovery machines Robinair has introduced two connected A/C recovery machines — 34998 and AC1234-9. The fully automatic recovery machines are for use on standard and hybrid vehicle systems. The 10.5-inch high-resolution touch screens display machine status and service info. They are designed to recover, vacuum, leak test and charge an A/C system on their own, allowing technicians to simultaneously work on other projects in the shop. The 34998 is for use with R-134a refrigerant vehicle systems, and the AC1234-9 is for systems that use the new R1234YF refrigerant.

ROBINAIR WWW.ROBINAIR.COM

Bartec offers TPMS tool software update Bartec USA has updated the software for its tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) tool, and the latest update includes added coverage for Rite-Sensor and model year 2020 vehicles. Software release 62 offers an improved charging algorithm to increase the number of sensor activations between tool charges; it also provides a tool to make setting up Wi-Fi connections faster. The Tech400Pro connects directly to a wireless router, with no extra software required. Release 62 also features more Tire Fill Alert (TFA) coverage for Nissan and Infiniti.

BARTEC USA LLC WWW.BARTECUSA.COM

OTC releases engine adapter plates OTC is expanding its product offerings with four new engine adaptor plates for its 1750A Revolver Diesel Engine Stand to further increase compatibility on engine repairs. For fast and seamless engine removal and repair, the new adapter plates were developed using high-grade materials for maximum strength and durability. The adapters fit various Navistar and Detroit Diesel engines including the popular MaxxForce and DT series, and MBE 900.

OTC TOOLS WWW.OTCTOOLS.COM

Mahle offers PAG compressor oil PAO 68 compressor oil from Mahle is a cost-effective solution for workshops. It’s suitable for many types of compressors, is non-hygroscopic, and is compatible with numerous other lubricants and refrigerants. During manufacture, special additives are added to the base PAO (polyalphaolefin) to ensure the oil’s outstanding characteristics. As a result, PAO 68 oil is a unique combination of highly refined synthetic oil and performance-enhancing additives. PAO 68 oil can be used both when topping off and when changing the system’s entire oil volume.

MAHLE INTERNATIONAL GMBH WWW.MAHLE.COM

Permatex adds gasket makers Permatex has added four new, advanced high temperature gasket makers to its Ultra, Optimum and The Right Stuff lines. The new gasket makers have been specially engineered to meet the technological advances in automotive design by withstanding the extremes of high thermal cycling experienced in today’s engines. Permatex Red Gasket Makers can be used for a wide range of high temperature repairs and service applications on headers, exhaust manifolds, turbochargers, slip-fit exhaust parts and more.

PERMATEX, A DIVISION OF ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC. WWW.PERMATEX.COM