Tech Tips - November 2018 (TIPS-1118)

TECH TIPS - NOVEMBER 2018

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

TECH TIPS GREATEST TIPS

This series features TechTIPS articles frequently referred to by Techline. This month's feature from April 2011 shows the recommended method of fluid leak detection using leak tracing powder. There are several commercially available leak tracing powders. The article below features Magnaflux SKD-S2 Developer. 

REMINDER:  Leak tracing powder is considered a shop supply and subject to Subaru - Policies & Procedures 8.4.36 Shop Supplies. Dye is NOT an approved method of leak detection, unless explicitly directed. 

02 FLUID LEAK DETECTION MADE EASIER

Identifying the true origin of fluid leaks/see page can be a time consuming and frustrating process. Misdiagnosis can, and often does, result in a costly shop comeback which can erode your profit margins along with your dealership's customer satisfaction index. You can help to minimize these costly shop comebacks by using Magnaflux SKD-S2 developer. Simply clean the suspect area, apply the developer and watch the results. The SKD-S2 quickly and accurately finds the source of the leak so you can "fix it right the first time". This tool can be used to help illustrate to your customers the true nature of what is happening with their vehicle. Being able to demonstrate the source of the leak will build the confidence of both you and your customer that the repair will be effective. The pictures below show how the product works.

This product is available in 16oz. aerosol cans from suppliers such as MX Industrial, www.mxindustrial.com (215) 322-8909 for $219/case of 16 cans or from Grainger, www.Grainger.com (P/N 3WU60) at $21.80/can. Product information, including MSDS and PDS sheets can be downloaded from the Magnaflux website: www.magnaflux.com.

05 NEW MODEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS

As new models are released, Technicians often find their alignment machines do not have the alignment most up-to-date specifications stored. To ensure a vehicle handles properly and to provide the highest quality repair for our customers, it is imperative to properly adjust alignment angles to specification. Alignment specifications are found in every Service Manual by clicking Suspension > Front Suspension > Wheel Alignment > Inspection. Once you have the specifications, you can enter them into your alignment equipment. If you are unsure how to manually enter alignment specifications, please contact your equipment supplier.

REMINDER:  Always ensure your alignment software is up to date. Never use incorrect specifications.

07 2019MY FORESTER, DRIVER MONITORING SYSTEM (DMS) INOPERATIVE

A small number of field reports have been received with a concern involving the DMS system being inoperative. One of these reports stated a DTC U0156 for Lost Communication was stored in multiple modules. In addition, the seat memory feature was also found to be inoperative. After performing extensive electrical diagnostics, the root cause was traced to a loose harness connector located behind the exterior trim cover of the driver's door mirror assembly. The upper and lower covers were CAREFULLY  removed using a plastic trim tool. With the covers removed, access to this connector was made easier by removing the turn signal lamp from the mirror housing (A). After re-seating the connector and confirming it was fully locked in place, all systems returned to normal operation. The photos below show the loose connector and its location.

TIP:  When removing  the covers, remove the lower cover first  , then the top. On re-installation  , refit the top  cover first then the bottom.

07 2019MY FORESTER, LOOSE NEGATIVE BATTERY CABLE/TERMINAL CONNECTIONS

During review of reports received by the Quality Monitoring Team supporting the launch of the new 2019MY Forester, there have been several cases involving damaged or deformed battery sensors. These reports usually describe a loose negative battery terminal (battery sensor) and/or cable connection. As a reminder, unless the battery or the battery sensor is being replaced, the sensor should not be removed from the negative battery post.  When disconnecting the negative battery cable, it should be removed from the battery sensor NOT the sensor assembly from the battery post.

VERY IMPORTANT:  When removing or installing the negative battery cable from or to the battery sensor, always support it and hold it in place with one hand  while loosening or torqueing either retaining nut. Doing so will prevent battery sensor damage/deformation from unnecessary movement.

12 WATER DRAINING FROM BODY PANELS

When presented with a customer concern of water entering door panels, it is important to understand water entry is a normal condition. All doors, rear gates, and deck lids are equipped with drain ports for this reason. If water can be heard inside the panel or is entering the cabin, ensure the drain ports are free of debris and flowing properly.

15 AIR CONDITIONING LEAK DIAGNOSIS REVISITED

With today's modern refrigerants, we would also like to remind all Technicians the use of dyes in Subaru air conditioning systems is strictly forbidden. The proper use of a recently calibrated refrigerant sniffing/leak detection tool is the most effective method for finding leaks.

The following is from Subaru Policies & Procedures section 8.4.5 Air Conditioning:

"The use of dye to diagnose an air conditioning refrigerant leak is not an approved Subaru of America diagnostic procedure."