Electric cars: a bit of history Unbelievable but true: electric cars and regenerative braking are not as new concepts as one might think! Electric cars appeared in the 1800s before cars with internal combustion engines, and attempts to create better ones continued throughout the 1900s. The Belgian “La Jamais Contente”, in 1899, was the first … Read More about Electric cars and tips to extend electric cars battery range
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Electric cars or hydrogen cars?
Premise: cars and environment It is clear to everyone that we must change how we live and what we drive to minimise our impact on the planet. But how will the automotive sector evolve? Many believe that electric cars are the automobile’s future. In recent years, however, the idea of hydrogen-powered cars has been gaining … Read More about Electric cars or hydrogen cars?
Car suspension – many times neglected
The suspension role in a car Although you may not consider your suspension a critical component, it is vital for every car. The suspension separates the wheel tyres from the body, absorbing all the recoil caused by irregularities in the road surface. It makes driving more comfortable and helps maintain control of your car. It … Read More about Car suspension – many times neglected
Timing chain stretched – a common reason for Range Rover 2016 2L engine failure
Timing chain stretched – a common reason for Range Rover 2016 2L engine failure The 2L engine is fitted in several Range Rover models, such as Evoke, Discovery, and Range Rover Sport. This car came with a permanent engine rattling noise. The reason is a “stretched” timing chain. The timing chain is a critical part … Read More about Timing chain stretched – a common reason for Range Rover 2016 2L engine failure
Volkswagen Touran in limp mode with DPF, glow plug and engine warning lights on the dash
The car is in limp mode with three warning lights on the dash – a situation that can scare any driver! When starting the engine, three warning lights come on: the engine management light, the DPF light and the glow plug light. The glow plug and engine lights indicate that the engine is running in … Read More about Volkswagen Touran in limp mode with DPF, glow plug and engine warning lights on the dash
What is the catalytic converter, and why is it stolen so often?
Why a catalytic converter? Cars are the scapegoat for ‘air sickness’, even though various studies show that other sources, such as industrial plants, thermal power stations, old heating plants, commercial vehicles and the old public transport in our cities, are more polluting. Most vehicles are powered by liquid or gaseous fuels derived from oil (petrol, … Read More about What is the catalytic converter, and why is it stolen so often?
Mercedes M-Class diesel engine oil leak
Today we have a Mercedes M-Class, chassis 164, diesel engine 642 V6 with an oil leak. The car has been stationary for a few hours, and a fairly amount of oil has already leaked under the vehicle. This type of oil leak is a common problem which is sometimes misdiagnosed. We lifted the car onto … Read More about Mercedes M-Class diesel engine oil leak
Mercedes timing chain replacement
When should the timing chain be replaced? The engine’s sound can reveal many things. The noise of a stretched timing chain can be heard when starting cold: the engine is very noisy in the first few seconds, and then it calms down. After the first start, the car runs well without noise, but this is … Read More about Mercedes timing chain replacement
BMW X5 M with oil consumption and consistent exhaust smoke on rev-up after idling
Excessive white smoke when the car revs up after idling for a few minutes. We started with basic checks: engine breather and pipes; we checked the turbochargers for excessive play and found nothing. It is well known that on these engines, the valve steam seals harden and cause excessive exhaust smoke. Does your car have … Read More about BMW X5 M with oil consumption and consistent exhaust smoke on rev-up after idling
The Winter Is Here: Prolonging Your Battery Life (Update)
QUICK 5-STEP GUIDE TO GETTING THE MOST OUT OF CAR BATTERIES: One last recommendation: Check the car battery water level indicator on a regular basis! Most car batteries will indicate if it needs more water. It may never require water, but if so only use deionised water. “Use it or Lose it” WHY IS MY … Read More about The Winter Is Here: Prolonging Your Battery Life (Update)
Diesel Engine Block Breathers
Diesel Engine Block Breathers: Essential Components for Engine Efficiency and Longevity In the realm of diesel engines, efficiency and durability are paramount. Among the myriad components that contribute to the overall performance and longevity of these engines, the block breather stands out as a crucial yet often overlooked part. Understanding its role and ensuring its … Read More about Diesel Engine Block Breathers
Swirl Flaps
WHAT ARE SWIRL FLAPS? Swirl Flaps are one of BMW’s greatest design mistakes, causing 1000’s of owners throughout the world either very expensive repairs or even vehicles being written off. The flaps live in the inlet manifold of BMW diesel M47, M47TU, M57 & M57TU engines (either 4 or 6 flaps, depending on the number of cylinders). … Read More about Swirl Flaps
