This fix illustrates the power of the SureTrack community to help a fellow tech quickly solve a tricky diagnosis. SureTrack community member, UNCLE BOBBY, had a 2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport roll into the shop. They posed the question to the community and resolved the issue quickly.

Modern vehicles are packed with features designed to improve efficiency, but sometimes those features create more headaches than benefits. The Stop/Start system is one such technology, and when it fails, it can leave customers frustrated and technicians scratching their heads. This case explores a common issue with Jeep Gladiator models and the steps taken to resolve it.

Complaint & Initial Observations

The customer reported that the Stop/Start system was disabled. This feature, designed to improve fuel efficiency, had become inoperative. The technician confirmed the complaint and began diagnostics.

Community Insight

Discussions around this issue revealed a broader industry trend: the Stop/Start system, once marketed as a fuel-saving innovation, is now considered by many to be obsolete due to advancements in engine efficiency. Technicians noted that while the feature remains on current vehicles, maintaining it adds cost and complexity without significant benefit.

This sparked a conversation about routine obsolescence in automotive technology—features come and go, but the burden of keeping them functional falls squarely on repair professionals. As one contributor pointed out, this is why technicians often have more invested in tools and training than most homeowners have in their houses.

Real Fix

The technician replaced the auxiliary battery, which is critical for the Stop/Start system’s operation. After replacement, the system required an extended test drive to reset and restore functionality. Once completed, the Stop/Start system operated as intended.

Conclusion

This case underscores the challenges of evolving automotive technology. While Stop/Start systems may soon disappear from new models, technicians must still maintain them on vehicles currently in service. The cost of tooling and expertise continues to rise, reflecting the complexity of modern vehicles and the ever-changing landscape of automotive features.

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When a 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan refuses to shift into reverse, it’s easy to suspect wiring or sensor issues. However, proper diagnostics can reveal the real culprit. In this case, a persistent P0716 code led to a thorough investigation that pinpointed an internal fault in the mechatronic unit.

Complaint & Initial Observations

The customer reported that the vehicle would not go into reverse. Upon confirming the complaint, the technician connected a scan tool and retrieved code P0716 – Transmission Input Speed Sensor (G182) – Implausible Signal.
With the scan tool connected (key on, engine off), the technician used a multimeter to verify voltage and ground at the mechatronic unit—both were present. Next, the transmission reverse pressure switch parameter was monitored while wiggling the wiring harness. No changes were observed, indicating no circuit faults.
A visual inspection confirmed the transmission oil level was within specification. These tests pointed to an internal fault in the mechatronic unit.

Community Insight

Cases like this often lead to unnecessary wiring repairs or sensor replacements. Experienced techs emphasize verifying power, ground, and harness integrity before condemning internal components. In this scenario, the diagnostic steps ruled out external faults, confirming the mechatronic unit as the culprit.

Real Fix

The technician replaced the mechatronic unit, cleared the fault code, and performed a road test. The vehicle operated according to manufacturer specifications, and the fault did not return.

Conclusion

When dealing with transmission-related codes like P0716, thorough diagnostics are key. Checking voltage, ground, and harness integrity before replacing major components can save time and money. In this case, proper testing confirmed an internal failure, and replacing the mechatronic unit restored full functionality.

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This fix illustrates the power of the SureTrack community to help a fellow tech quickly solve a tricky diagnosis. SureTrack community member, Autoservicio Venegas, had a 2018 Jeep Renegade Latitude roll into the shop. They posed the question to the community, and with help from kgoble and others, they resolved the issue quickly.

In the automotive industry, ensuring that every component of a vehicle functions correctly is crucial for safety and performance. One common issue that many automotive professionals encounter is related to the Electric Park Brake (EPB). In this blog, we will discuss a specific case involving a 2018 Jeep Renegade Latitude, where the red brake light and Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) C140B-94 appeared after a collision repair.

Complaint & Initial Observations

After a collision repair, a new caliper and EPB were installed directly from the dealer. However, the red brake light turned on immediately after the key was turned on, and the DTC C140B-94 was present.

The initial steps included installing a new EPB and caliper from the dealer and checking the wiring around the impact area, which appeared to be in good condition.

The main question raised was whether anyone had experienced issues with the vehicle not recognizing the new EPB position. This led to a series of diagnostic steps and troubleshooting efforts.

Community Insight

Kgoble provided valuable insights, explaining that there is no direct fuse for the EPB. The ABS module handles the power and ground toggles to move the motor in and out. Kgoble swapped the actuators left to right, but the codes remained the same. This indicated that the issue was not with the actuators themselves.

Real Fix

After thorough diagnostics, it was determined that the wiring from the ABS module to the actuator was good, with no opens or shorts to B+/-. This led to the conclusion that the ABS module itself was likely faulty. Replacing the ABS module resolved the issue, and the EPB functioned correctly.

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of thorough diagnostics and understanding the role of different modules in vehicle systems. For automotive professionals, encountering such issues can be challenging, but with the right approach and knowledge, solutions can be found. If you face similar issues, always ensure to check the wiring, modules, and follow the proper calibration procedures.

Stay tuned for more insights and troubleshooting tips in the automotive world!

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This fix illustrates the power of the SureTrack community to help a fellow tech quickly solve a tricky diagnosis. SureTrack community member, AddisonsAutoService, had a 2013 Ford Flex Limited roll into the shop. They posed the question to the community, and with help from 1akinsautorepair and others, they resolved the issue quickly.

Complaint & Initial Observations

• Pin 6 = 2.5V
• Pin 14 = 2.1V
• Pin 16 = Battery voltage

Community Insight

Real Fix

Conclusion

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This fix illustrates the power of the SureTrack community to help a fellow tech quickly solve a tricky diagnosis. SureTrack community member, autorepair1, had a 2018 RAM 2500 roll into the shop. They posed the question to the community, and with help from deadstar05 and others, they resolved the issue quickly.

Complaint & Initial Observations

Community Insight

Real Fix

Conclusion

The post SureTrack Real Fix: 2018 RAM 2500 HD Tradesman appeared first on Mitchell1.

This fix illustrates the power of the SureTrack community to help a fellow tech quickly solve a tricky diagnosis. SureTrack community member, fire8pyro, had a 2018 Ford Edge roll into the shop. They posed the question to the community, and with help from deadstar05 and others, they resolved the issue quickly.

Complaint & Initial Observations

After replacing the Cruise Control Module (CCM), the technician found that both the cruise control and Pre-Collision Assist systems were inoperative. No reason was provided for the original CCM replacement, but the issue surfaced immediately after installation.

The technician attempted two different types of road tests but couldn’t get either system to function. The updated CCM module appeared to be installed correctly, but the vehicle lacked the original configuration data needed to complete setup.

Community Insight

The CCM must be reprogrammed using PMI (Programmable Module Installation) if the original module is still available. If not, the technician must access Ford’s servers to retrieve and install the as-built data. Without this step, the module cannot complete its initial configuration, leaving both systems disabled. (best answer by user: deadstar05)

Real Fix

This situation is a textbook example of why OEM programming is essential after module replacement. The technician resolved the issue by reprogramming the new CCM using Ford’s as-built data, restoring full functionality to both the cruise control and Pre-Collision Assist systems.

Conclusion

Module replacement isn’t just plug-and-play, especially on modern vehicles like the Ford Edge. Without proper reprogramming, critical systems can remain offline. Pass-through programming tools and OEM access are vital for completing these repairs correctly.

SureTrack® adds to the power of ProDemand® with an exclusive combination of real-world knowledge and powerful diagnostic tools, all wrapped in an interactive community of professional technicians. Designed to help automotive shops increase accuracy and efficiency from diagnosis to completed repair, the industry’s most comprehensive repair information resource is just a few clicks away.

Want more? Here’s how you can see more Real Fixes in SureTrack:

• Current ProDemand Customers: LOG IN TO PRODEMAND
• Not a ProDemand customer yet? No problem: REQUEST A FREE DEMO OF PRODEMAND
• SureTrack Community Frequently Asked Questions: FAQs PAGE

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Vehicle

2005 Chrysler 300 C 5.7L Eng VIN H Eng CD EZB

Title

Stuck in park. Does Not Move

Complaint

Vehicle was towed in for start/stall concern.

Issue Description

Has a breathalyzer on it. Started the engine in parking (P) and checked codes. Only code shown was P0521 oil pressure. Oil dipstick was broken off, customer stated they added 1 qt. Technician backed up vehicle and pulled it forward into the shop. Drained oil getting less than 2.5 qts oil.

Then changed the filter and oil. Cleared codes, removed dipstick tube and got stick out.

Ran the vehicle again and no codes returned in any modules. Scan tool showed same readings for shifter position as what is moved on shifter and on dash. Does not move in drive (D) or reverse (R). Can not push it in park (P) but can push it in every other gear. Transmission fluid looks good and shows proper level using stick.

Correction

Technician thought the vehicle had a failed transmission. Still only getting the P0710 code but this time I let it sit started it and put into reverse (R) it had a vibration but went into (R). The tech moved it to neutral (N) a few seconds, then to (D)… no (D). Then move it back to (R) and nothing. Managed to get it out of shop by waiting, start in neutral (N) then put to reverse (R) and back out. Turned off, wait then start and (D) then shut off and wait and so forth.

When replacing the transmission and found the trans dipstick tube completely broken in half, right at the welded on bracket. That probably caused water intrusion which took out trans. Brazed back together as could not find a new tube anywhere.

SureTrack® is a powerful value-added feature available with select Snap-on diagnostics tools. It offers an exclusive combination of expert knowledge and detailed parts replacement records, all wrapped in an interactive community.

Want more? Click here for more information on using SureTrack.

Looking for diagnostic tools? Click here to request more information on Snap-on diagnostic tools.

New or Expired SureTrack users: Click here for authorization key instructions.

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Vehicle
2019 Ford F-550 Super Duty XL 6.7L Eng VIN T Eng CD 99T

Title

CODES 1555 and p1557

Complaint

Check Engine Light ON, for Injector 5 and 7 Circuit Fault. Runs fine

Cause

Truck only has 5000 miles on it. Ford has replaced 4 injectors and the PCM already at 2500 miles. CYL 5 injector is original yet but 7 they replaced. When the Truck is cold all injectors show the same resistance reading. Once the truck is warmed up 5 and 7 resistance goes high. others all stay the same. I tested at the PCM and directly at the injector and got the same high reading. Truck runs perfect even after it sets those codes.

Correction

Replaced two new injectors in and problem was solved.

SureTrack® is a powerful value-added feature available with select Snap-on diagnostics tools. It offers an exclusive combination of expert knowledge and detailed parts replacement records, all wrapped in an interactive community.

Want more? Click here for more information on using SureTrack.

Looking for diagnostic tools? Click here to request more information on Snap-on diagnostic tools.

New or Expired SureTrack users: Click here for authorization key instructions.

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Vehicle

2017 Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2.0l Diesel

Title

P1541, Replaced Engine Oil Pressure Sensor

Complaint

The customer states the check engine light is on.

Cause

Confirmed customer complaint of engine light on. Connected a scan tool and found code P1541 – Variable Displacement Oil Pump circuit fault. Monitored live data Parameters for engine oil pressure with the engine running at operating temperature to check for the correct reading. Engine oil pressure sensor reading not within specifications. Carried out mechanical engine oil pressure test using an oil pressure gauge on the engine to confirm engine oil pressure within specifications. Engine oil pressure reading within spec. At idle, used a multi-meter to check for the presence of voltage and ground at the engine oil pressure sensor and found both were present. These test results verified the engine oil pressure sensor was faulty.

Correction

Replaced the engine oil pressure sensor, cleared codes. Confirmed the fix by monitoring live data parameters for oil pressure with the engine running. Performed a road test and verified the vehicle operated properly. The check engine light did not illuminate and no fault codes returned.

SureTrack® is a powerful value-added feature available with select Snap-on diagnostics tools. It offers an exclusive combination of expert knowledge and detailed parts replacement records, all wrapped in an interactive community.

Want more? Click here for more information on using SureTrack.

Looking for diagnostic tools? Click here to request more information on Snap-on diagnostic tools.

New or Expired SureTrack users: Click here for authorization key instructions.

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Vehicle
2015 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol

Title

C1116, Replaced Brake Light Switch

Complaint

The customer states the anti-lock brake system (ABS) light is on.

Cause

Connected a scan tool and found code C1116 – Brake Light Switch. Key on, used the scan tool to monitor live data, depressed and released the brake pedal and observed the brake light switch parameter did not change state. Performed an inspection of the fuses and relays and found no concerns. Visually inspected the brake light switch wiring harness and found no evidence of any damage. Disconnected the brake light switch harness connector, inspected the terminals and found no obvious concerns. Used the scan tool to monitor the live data, connected a fused jumper wire across the brake light switch harness connector sense circuit and observed the brake light switch parameter changed state. Used a multi-meter to measure the continuity of the brake light switch, continued to depress and release the brake pedal and found the switch had intermittent continuity. The results of these tests verified the brake light switch was faulty.

Correction

Replaced the brake light switch, cleared codes, performed a road test and verified the vehicle operated properly. The ABS light did not illuminate and no fault codes returned.

SureTrack® is a powerful value-added feature available with select Snap-on diagnostics tools. It offers an exclusive combination of expert knowledge and detailed parts replacement records, all wrapped in an interactive community.

Want more? Click here for more information on using SureTrack.

Looking for diagnostic tools? Click here to request more information on Snap-on diagnostic tools.

New or Expired SureTrack users: Click here for authorization key instructions.

The post SureTrack Real Fix: 2015 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol appeared first on Mitchell1.