Case Studies

A Collection of the Odd, Unusual and Interesting Found While Servicing Our Client Vehicles.

Originally intended as a showcase for customers of our workshop and staff’s abilities, this page has evolved in an interesting and informative teaching tool, and one of the most popular pages on our site!

By nature, these are rather extreme examples of failures, and not what we typically find during service. Our goal at Atlantic Motorcar is to prevent these from happening to you and your car. But rest assured, if we can fix these challenges, regular maintenance is breeze!

We like to call this our “YES WE CAN!” page. You can also view many of these concerns on our Facebook page. Each photo can be enlarged by clicking on it.

Porsche IMS Bearing: The Facts Made Simple – How We Can Help!

27 Sep at 4:42 pm

Case Studies

Atlantic Motorcar Center

The Porsche IMS Bearing: The Facts Made Simple
Credits: LN Engineering and Atlantic Motorcar Service

As a late model Porsche owner, you have likely heard the acronym “IMS” but every time you’ve searched on the internet, you’ve come away with more questions than answers.

Our Background
After 35 years of European, and specifically Porsche service, we know a thing or two about this problem. We’ve spent considerable time in the workshop speaking with our technicians and distilling the very best factual information about IMS bearings, their importance and what exactly does go wrong. Below you’ll find the most commonly asked questions regarding the IMS bearing along with a simple easy to understand explanation of the issues!

We hope this will help you have a better overall grasp of what exactly the IMS bearing is, as well as what goes wrong and what is involved to make sure it doesn’t happen to you and your Porsche

What Is An IMS bearing?
IMS stands for ‘Intermediate Shaft’, and the IMS bearing supports the intermediate shaft, on the flywheel end of the motor (See below).

The purpose of the intermediate shaft is to drive the camshafts indirectly off the crankshaft. By using an intermediate shaft, the speeds of the chains are reduced, which is better for the chain life. This basic design was used through the entire lifespan of aircooled six-cylinder Mezger engines used through to 1998. The inclusion of an intermediate shaft which drives the camshafts indirectly off the crankshaft has been a mainstay of the horizontally-opposed flat 6 engine utilized by Porsche.

Application
The same design has been retained with the water-cooled Turbo, GT2 and GT3 models as their engines are based off the same 964 engine case with the same internals as the earlier aircooled engines. Although these engines use an intermediate shaft, with a bearing, they have a fundamentally different design, and are not subject to the same type of failure as the M96 engine.

What Porsche models are prone to IMS failure and would benefit from an IMS upgrade.
– All 996 models (not including: GT and Turbo models)
– All 986 Boxster models.
– 987 Cayman & Boxster models up to engine number 61504715
– 997 3.6 liter with M96/05 up to engine number 6950745

So What Actually Goes Wrong?
There are so many reasons for bearing failure, and usually each failure is due to a combination of factors, not just a single cause.

Spalling, one of the most common of failures, occurs as a result of normal fatigue where the bearing has reached the end of its normal lifespan but this is the most common cause of IMS failure.

Spalling detected in bearings can generally be attributed to a number of factors; a common cause of bearing failure is due to high load and lack of lubrication to the IMS bearing, causing continuous over heating. Dirty, or low quality engine oils will contribute to this failure, as will a low quality filter, improper warm up, or excessive engine revving when cold.

Spalling will ultimately weaken the bearing and fracture it, leaving behind a jagged depression (or a ‘pit’). Once this cycle begins, wear is greatly accelerated and the bearing will fail very quickly.

What Is The Worst Case Scenario?
In worst-case scenarios, the cam timing can also be thrown off, causing valve to piston contact. In that case, the engine will need a full tear down and rebuild.
Check the photos below for what severe failure looks like.

An once of prevention (as in a replacement IMS bearing, BEFORE failure) is worth a pound of cure.
One thing is for sure; once you have experienced an IMS bearing failure, there is NO turning back.
A complete engine disassembly is required to replace the intermediate shaft and in most cases, complete rebuild or engine replacement is your ONLY option.

What Can Be Done To Fix This Common Problem?
Aside from the proactive approach of replacing the IMS bearing prior to such a failure, prevention and early detection are some of the steps that can be taken to try and minimize the risk of a costly engine failure. With model year 1997 through 2005 engines, the bearing is indeed readily accessible with engine removal.

An IMS bearing replacement is intended to be installed as a pro-active measure in preventative and regular maintenance. Once an engine has suffered a failure, replacement of the intermediate shaft bearing is no longer an option. Installing a replacement IMS bearing in an engine that has already suffered a failure will result in a subsequent failure due to collateral damage, including but not limited to debris contaminating the new bearing.

Are There Any Warning Signs?
There are three warnings signs which can indicate a bearing is failing; you’ve found metallic debris in the oil filter while carrying out an oil change, which means you actually have to open up and carefully examine the pleats. These may initially appear as fine flecks, rather than large particles.

You may have found that there’s an oil leak located at rear of engine, in the area of the rear main seal.
Or perhaps have started to hear knocking and metallic sounds coming from the rear of the motor.

It’s important as soon as you spot or hear the problem, call us at (207) 882-9969 for some advice.
Please do not drive the car until it has been inspected by a trained Porsche technician, as you could cause catastrophic engine damage and failure.

The Only Correction Is Prevention
An once of prevention (as in a replacement IMS bearing, BEFORE failure) is worth a pound of cure.
If your Porsche qualifies, and the IMS bearing has not been replaced with an update kit in the last 30,000 miles, we strongly advise you do it proactively.
Do not wait, time is engine. Your engine.

Likewise, if your IMS bearing has been replaced 30,000 to 40,000 miles ago, it’s time to do it again, don’t wait until it fails.
The replacement bearings, though very good, and very durable, do wear out, and can fail like their OEM predecessors.

Need More Help?
We hope we’ve been able to shine some light and help you have a better understanding of what exactly an IMS bearing is and what can actually go wrong with them. And more importantly, how to prevent that from occurring! To discuss the best approach for your car, give our service team a call us or email service@atlanticmotorcar.com.

Finally
Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper, Porsche or other European import, please contact us. Our team of Service Specialists is here to help, for even the newest autos! (207) 882-9969.

Knowing, not just “doing,” that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way.
Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

Photos of Atlantic Motorcar IMS Bearing Installation – Porsche Boxster

Finished Installation

Photos of Classic IMS Bearing Failures
CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE, CAUSE: IMS BEARING FAILURE

IMS Failure - Oil Leak at IMS Bearing

IMS Failure - Timing Guides Damaged

IMS Failure - Timing Chain Failure

IMS Failure - Internal Cylinder Damage

How to Prepare Your Car for Long-Term or Winter Storage

3 Aug at 3:32 pm

Case Studies

Bruce Howes

Top Tips To Protect Your Car While You’re Away
Many vehicles we service here at Atlantic Motorcar are often used seasonally, spring to fall. We are frequently asked how to store these for the off-season so they are ready to use in the spring without damage or problems.

Maybe you have a convertible that you love to drive in the summer, but now winter has arrived. Or perhaps you’re going to leave town for a job or an extended vacation. Or maybe you are in the military and are being deployed overseas.

Whatever the reason for your time away from the vehicle, you’ll need to put it in storage, and you want to do this in a wise manner that protects your car and your investment.

If you just let your car sit on the street or in a garage for an extended period, you may return to a dead battery or — worse yet — a damaged engine, rusted brakes, flat-spotted tires or a rodent’s nest under your hood.

Simple First Steps
Here are basic essential steps to take before you store a vehicle. They will preserve the engine’s life and ensure that your car starts when you return to it.

• Use an all-weather car cover if you cannot leave your car in a garage.

•Try not to park over grass, ideally part over gravel, asphalt, or cement; this will prevent or slow down condensation from rusting your brakes and car’s body.

• Get the car fully detailed, or at the very minimum, washed and waxed before placing it in storage.

• Be sure to fill up the gas tank and add a gas stabilizer if you will store the car for more than 30 days.

• Use a battery tender to avoid jump-starting or replacing the battery.

Keep It Covered
A heated or climate-controlled garage is an ideal place to store a vehicle. This will protect it from the elements and keep it at a temperature and humidity that’s relatively stable. This helps prevent condensation and corrosion on metal parts and surfaces.

If you don’t have a garage or can’t find such accommodation at a reasonable price, consider putting the car in a public storage facility. If you have to leave the car outdoors, consider getting a weatherproof car cover, we like the (Covercraft and Wolfe brands) ideally, one that locks, which will help keep the vehicle clean and dry. This will prevent sun damage to both your paint and interior. And remember to try and park your car over solid surfaces.

Clean It Up
It may seem counterintuitive to wash the car when you’re about to put it away for months, but it is an easy step that shouldn’t be overlooked. Water stains or bird droppings left on the car can damage the paint. Make sure to clean the wheels and undersides of the fenders to get rid of mud, grease, or tar. For added protection, give the car a good coat of quality wax. And consider treating all interior leather surfaces with a good quality cleaner and protectant, like “Lexol” or “Hide Food.” This will go a long way to saving your leather from drying out and cracking.

Change the Oil and Check Fluids
Skip this step if you only store the car for a week or two. Consider changing the oil if you will be storing the vehicle for longer than 30 days. Most manufacturers recommend this step in their owner’s manuals, saying that used engine oil has contaminants that could damage the engine. Please ensure that the shop uses a quality oil filter that meets factory standards, like OEM, Bosch, Mann, or Mahle, and like quality engine oil like Castrol or Mobile 1.

For longer-term storage, remember that brake fluid should be changed every two years, and we recommend coolant (antifreeze), especially on aluminum engines, be replaced every three years. We have an expression at Atlantic Motorcar, “Oil Is Cheaper Than Metal.“, meaning fluid changes are much less costly and invasive than replacing parts.

Top Off the Tank
This is another long-term car storage tip. Fill the tank with gas if you expect the car to be in storage for more than 30 days. Topping it off will prevent moisture from accumulating inside the fuel tank and keep the seals from drying out. You should also purchase a fuel stabilizer such as Sta-bil to prevent ethanol buildup and protect the engine from gum, varnish, and rust. The fuel stabilizer will prevent the gas from deteriorating for up to 12 months.

Keep It Charged
An unattended battery will eventually lose its charge. Get someone to start the car every two weeks and drive it for about 15 minutes if possible. Driving the car periodically has several benefits. It will maintain the battery’s charge, help the car “stretch its legs,” and keep the engine and other components adequately lubricated. It is also a good idea to run the air conditioner to keep the parts in working order and the air quality fresh.

If you cannot arrange for someone to start the car, there are two other options. The low-tech solution is to disconnect the negative battery cable. We’re not a fan of this, as you’ll likely lose the stereo presets, time, and other settings. If you want to keep those settings and ensure that your battery starts the moment you return, the ideal solution is to purchase a battery tender, also known as a trickle charger. This device hooks up to your car battery on one end and plugs into a wall outlet on the other. It delivers just enough electrical power to prevent the battery from discharging. Good quality units will turn on and off and often display an LED status. Most of these units cost under $100, far less than the cost of replacing your battery.

Don’t Set the Parking Brake
Using the parking brake is usually a good idea, but we don’t advise doing this when you leave a car in storage. If the brake pads make contact with the rotors for too long, there is a chance that they might rust together and stick, preventing the car from moving. Instead, purchase a tire stopper, also called a wheel chock, to prevent the vehicle from moving.

Prevent Flat Spots
Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended tire pressure. If a vehicle is left stationary for too long, the tires could develop flat spots as the car’s weight presses down on the tires’ footprints. This process occurs faster in colder temperatures and vehicles equipped with performance or low-profile tires. In some cases, merely having someone drive the car for a while will bring the tires up to their normal operating temperature and eliminate any flat spots. In more severe cases, a flat spot can become a permanent part of the tire and need to be replaced.

If your car is in storage for more than 30 days, consider taking the wheels off and placing the vehicle on jack stands at all four corners. This step requires more work, but it can save you from needing a new set of tires. When you return, your tires will be in much better shape if they haven’t been bearing the vehicle’s unmoving weight for a month or more. If you don’t want to jack up your car, you can try slightly over-inflating the tires by 5PSI, then lowering them back to spec when taken out of storage. This is often enough to prevent the tires from flat spotting during extended periods.

Keep Critters Out
A garage will keep your car dry and relatively warm. Unfortunately, those are also two things that make a garaged car attractive to rodents. There are plenty of places in your car for critters to hide and plenty of things for them to chew on. Try to cover any gaps where a mouse could enter, such as the exhaust pipe or an air intake. Steel wool works well for this.

Next, spread mothballs or cotton swabs dipped in peppermint oil along the vehicle’s perimeter. The smell is said to drive mice away. At Atlantic Motorcar, we’re a big fan of the natural rather than poison method of rodent control. There is an all-natural product made from cedar and pine, “FreshCab,” which you can find at local hardware stores, or Amazon, that works amazingly well.

If you want to take a more proactive approach, or for challenging cases for which “Fresh Cab” doesn’t work, you can lay down a few mousetraps. Just make sure someone can check the garage periodically in case there are some casualties. Otherwise, you’ll have to deal with a smell much worse than mothballs when you take the car out of storage.

Maintain Insurance
You might be tempted to cancel your auto insurance when your vehicle is in storage. Although that might initially save money, there is a chance that the insurance company will raise your rates due to the coverage gap, which could cost you more in the long run. This can vary based on where you live and who your provider is, so contact your insurance company to see what options are available to you. Consider that many storage facilities do not properly insurance clients’ cars for damage, so having some basic coverage when stored is a smart idea.

Get Back in Action
Here’s a checklist of what to do when you’re ready to bring your vehicle out of storage:

• Check under the hood for any evidence of rodents. Look for chewed belts, hoses, wires, or nests.

• If you covered the muffler or air intake, remove that material before you start the car.

• Check the windshield wipers to see if the rubber is cracked or brittle.

• Check the tire pressure and inflate the tires to the recommended specs.

• Check the brakes. Rust may have accumulated on the rotors. In most cases, it should go away after you drive the vehicle for a short time, but you may hear a “thumping” noise while applying the brakes until the rust cleans off.

• Check fluids to ensure there have been no leaks and they are at the recommended levels.

• If the battery cable has been disconnected, ensure that you reconnect it and that the battery terminals are clean.

• Wash your vehicle to remove any dirt that may have accumulated.

Have Questions?
Please call one of our Service Advisors for more information or questions on your car.
They can offer valuable information on the proper service and repair for your vehicle.

Our Goal For You and Your Car
Our goal is to save you money, not spend it, which is why every car we service gets a free Courtesy Maintenance Inspection during its first and every subsequent visit.

We aim to inform you about the minor problems before they become big ones. Right now, we have a number of customer cars with well over 200,000 miles and several approaching 300,000!

And these cars are not just limping along – most look and drive pretty much the way they came out of the showroom. Proper maintenance is an investment in the life of your vehicle. Be sure it is properly performed, and take it to Atlantic Motorcar…Extraordinary Service for Extraordinary Cars. (207) 882-9969

Finally
Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper, or other European (and now Japanese) import, please contact us. Our team of Service Specialists is here to help, for even the newest autos! (207) 882-9969.

Knowing, not just “doing,” that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way.
Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

Reasons for Door Lock Actuator Failure in Your BMW

7 Jul at 2:00 pm

Case Studies

Bruce Howes

Reasons for Door Lock Failure in Your BMW
BMW is known for its luxury and performance. Car owners have fallen in love with the brand for its innovative technology. However, being one of the auto industry leaders doesn’t mean that there are no minor issues from time to time. Door lock failures can be a common problem BMW owners, and other car lines as well will face. To correct the problem, you need to know the reasons why these issues happen, and understanding some basics can help you guide your service professional when you report the symptoms. Here are some of the more common reasons why door locks fail, and what it occurs.

Blown Fuses
Blown fuses are a common occurrence in door lock systems. The good news is that fuses can be easily replaced and isn’t costly.
It’s a quick fix for many, but you still have to know why your fuse blew in the first place. If your BMW door locks are the only system affected, then the fuse is the culprit, but if there are other systems going haywire, you will need to identify the source of the problem. The more information you can supply, the more helpful it is to your service provider.

Important Tip – Fuses do not fail on their own, they do not “wear out”, and a blown fuse is a warning that something is a problem in the system. Never attempt to replace a blown fuse with a higher current rating, this can result in major electrical damage or even cause a fire.

Faulty Key FOB Or Remote
Key FOBs are one of the perks of advanced technology. You can unlock and lock your car, arm or disarm your car alarm, or even close and open the trunk remotely with just a push of a button. When key fobs malfunction, you will surely encounter door lock problems with your BMW.

It could be a dead battery or a glitch in your key fob programming. A simple battery replacement can sometimes solve the problem and is an excellent place to start when solving your door locking issues. We can also program and reset the FOB to the car’s computer, this is sometimes required with a dead battery or jump start when an electrical glitch occurs in the system.

Wiring Problems
BMWs are wired differently compared to other cars, and these complex systems may malfunction, particularly in the area of the door harness, which flexes each time the door is open or closed. This is often difficult to track down, and duplicate in the workshop, and is a frequent cause of fuses blowing intermittently.

If the key fob and fuses are working, the next culprit is the wiring in your BMW’s electrical system. Wiring is not something that we often think of as wearing out, but through repeated use, it actually can burn out and become faulty. Often with wiring issues, you will notice fluctuations in power that will result in door locks working sometimes but not others, similar to low (but not quite dead) key fob batteries.

Replacing the wiring does not require taking apart your entire vehicle, as there are usually separate electrical systems for different parts of your car, but it will involve taking your door apart and getting to the battery. You will definitely need a professional BMW technician to take care of wiring issues in your vehicle.

Faulty Door Lock Actuators
A final common cause of door lock failure is when the door lock actuators malfunction. These actuators are the electronic mechanisms that physically engage the door locks when the lock button is pressed. These do not usually deteriorate quickly, but excessive use will wear them out over time, and the door locks are one of the most used functions of your BMW. How will you know if your door lock actuator is going bad?

Symptoms of lock actuator failure include weird noises coming from the door locks when operated or automatic locking and unlocking even when the buttons are not pressed. Likewise, intermittently blown fuses can signal an actuator motor that is drawing too much current and will eventually fail. Failure can be manageable at the onset, but you need to get them replaced if you don’t want to get locked out of your car.

Control Modules
A control module failure can cause issues with your locking system. Diagnosing the problem is not an easy task, but the failure of these modules is, fortunately, a rare event, usually caused by battery issues, jump-starting, or water intrusion. These units contain security coding and need to be diagnosed and programmed correctly by our BMW computer. You will need a professional BMW technician, equipped with the BMS ISTA computer, to program your system after service.

Have Questions?
For more information or questions on your BMW, please call one of our Service Advisors, they can offer valuable information on the proper service and repair for your car.

Our Goal For You and Your Car
Our goal is to save you money, not spend it. Which is why each and every car that we service gets a free Courtesy Maintenance Inspection during its first visit, and every subsequent visit.

Our goal is to let you know about the small problems, before they become big ones. Right now we have number of customer cars with well over 200,000 miles, and several approaching 300,000! And these cars are not just limping along – most look and drive pretty much the way they came out of the showroom. Proper maintenance is an investment in the life of your vehicle. Be sure it is properly performed, take it to Atlantic Motorcar…Extraordinary Service for Extraordinary Cars. (207) 882-9969

Finally
Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper or other European (and now Japanese) import, please contact us. Our team of Service Specialists is here to help, for even the newest autos! (207) 882-9969.

Knowing, not just “doing”, that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way.
Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

With Honor – A Life Well Lived, Extraordinarily Well

17 Jun at 1:32 pm

Case Studies

Bruce Howes

With Honor

When I first met Robert, he was referred to our facility to solve some previously unresolved problems with his classic 1998 Mercedes wagon. He was 95 at the time and informed me that he was interested in driving his Mercedes until he was 100.

I truly believed, given his grace, determination, and experience, that he’d make that. A very resolute, yet kind and gracious spirit. We solved the Mercedes wagon problems, and then he brought me his pride and joy, pictured here, a 1971 Mercedes 250C that he had brought over from Europe.

Robert didn’t quite make 100, passing away a few years back at 97. Ironically, this year, 2022, would be the 100th anniversary of his year of birth in his native England. Fittingly, we share this announcement.

But first, before we talk about the new area, let me tell you a little about Robert…

A most extraordinary gentleman, meeting this WW2 hero (how often do you meet a living Royal Air Force Spitfire pilot these days, especially one who shared a cigar with Winston Churchill?) and resurrecting his classic Mercedes was truly one of the highlights of my then 34-year career in automotive service.

After the completion of his first Mercedes, we sat in my office, talking about life and cars, when he suddenly spotted a Morse code key and practice sounder sitting on my desk. Being a ham radio operator, I frequently used it in my spare time to keep my Morse code sending sharp. Like a boy in a toy shop, he grabbed it up and began sending Morse code, a skill that he had learned some 75 years earlier in the RAF. I was delighted to gift him that, and so it was that when he would later call, I’d pick up the phone to the melodious tones of Morse code being sent.

If I may, I’d like to share the story of a life well-lived, very well lived. I knew he was extraordinary, but humble man he was, I didn’t know quite how much, until I read his obit. I knew I found a kindred spirit, didn’t realize how much. A part of Robert’s story can be found here – https://tinyurl.com/amc-robert-gray

So it was, when we bought our second location last July, we had some freed-up space at the main shop.
Discussions ensued, and our team agreed that it would be an ideal location to make a simple showroom, and there to display Robert’s car.

So a renovation was undertaken late last year, recently completed, the floor was epoxy coated with a wonderful vintage flake finish, the walls painted, cove molding installed, and antique lighting put into place. This is the result. We plan artwork for the wall and a couple of overstuffed leather chairs. I think Robert would be proud…

– Bruce

That’s Hot! – Air Conditioning and Climate Control Diagnosis and Service

7 Jun at 8:24 am

Case Studies

Bruce Howes

Air Conditioning In Modern European Autos
From the entry-level to the top-of-the-line, every modern car comes equipped with climate control. It is not just a feature; it is the standard. Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper, Land Rover, and Volvo, all have different designs, but the theory of operation of reach of these systems is the same.

Even though you might not get the heated seats or automatic climate controls, your car will still have A/C as standard. Interior comfort is one of the many reasons why we need a good air conditioning system in our cars. Often thought of only as a summer convenience, did you know that in modern cars, air conditioning is also used when the heat is on, to dehumidify the air inside the cabin, and to aid in defrosting the windows?

But then again, no matter how good anything was in beginning, it will always come to an end. Air conditioning is no different. They sure make our life a lot easier and more comfortable, but with time their cooling also starts to fade, and the system requires service.

Why Is My Air Conditioning Not Cold Enough?
Well, when you talk about A/C not working properly, it means that your A/C is malfunctioning. Now malfunctioning can be caused due to several reasons. But when we talk about A/C not being cold enough, well then, the reasons are always obvious.

If your vents are pushing less volume of air or you see dust or the air smells different, that will be a bad cabin micro-filter.

But otherwise, it could be a failed component or it’s just out of refrigerant. To understand it better let’s first understand the working of a modern air conditioning system.

The functioning of an air conditioning system is nearly universally the same in almost all cars. The first thing you should understand is that your A/C does not create or generate cold air, it simply converts hot air into the cold. Your A/C system does so by either regulating the cabin air or bringing it in from the outside.

Understanding Air Conditioning Operation
It all starts from one unit called a compressor. It is a device that is used to reduce the volume of gas by increasing its pressure. Due to an increase in pressure the temperature also increases. Now, this hot gas moves into another unit called the condenser. The condenser is like a radiator and as the gas moves through it, it loses its temperature while being at the same pressure.

This in turn converts the gas into a liquid. Now the liquid moves through a dryer which separates the liquid from any remaining gas. Then the liquid moves to a thermal expansion valve which then simply turns your hot high-pressure liquid into a cold, low-pressure gas. The cold gas is now passed through an evaporator which is also like a radiator.

The hot air from the outside or from your cabin then passes through the evaporator. As the hot air comes into contact with the cold gas, the air loses its heat and you get cold air from your vents.

Then the cold gas from the evaporator goes back into the compressor and a cycle is created. This is how your air conditioning works. We would call it a heat exchanger, moving heat energy from one area to another.

How and Why Does Air Conditioning Fail?
You might be wondering, how does this explain your A/C not cooling air.
There are two answers to that.

a. Any one of the many AC components has stopped working.

b. Your compressor has run out of refrigerant due to a system leak, or the normal loss because of age.

What Is Refrigerant?
A refrigerant or freon is a substance used to transfer heat from one area to another. Yes, it is the same substance that keeps converting into liquid and gas as explained above. With time your car runs out of refrigerant and you need to recharge it.

Without refrigerant, your compressor will not work, and your evaporator will not have any cold gas to convert hot air into the cold.
But how would you know whether you have a malfunctioning AC or you just don’t have enough refrigerant?

How Much Does A Simple Air Conditioning Recharge Cost?
The total cost of getting your refrigerant refill or A/C simply recharged will generally not be more than $270-$300, but if a component replacement is needed, then the cost can be considerably higher. This is why it is important to have your system professionally diagnosed and checked for leaks, so parts are not needlessly replaced, or refrigerant wasted.

How Often Do You Need To Recharge Your A/C System?
Recharging your A/C doesn’t come with a time period or expiry date. Refrigerant is not consumed with use, but over time does seep out of the system, though this often takes years. So there is no time limit or frequency to how often you should recharge your air conditioning. It depends on the area you live in and the amount of time you use A/C and at what intensity you use your air conditioning, and system integrity.

The Proper Repair And The Alternative
If you search, you’ll see all kinds of “do it yourself” (DIY) kits to “repair and recharge” your air conditioning. In days gone by, 20 or 30 years ago, this sometimes worked, when A/C had a “sight glass” to view the charge level.

Today’s modern systems no longer have a sight glass, and instead, rely on very accurate (down to the level of ounces) proper refrigerant charge. Any of these DIY kits will almost certainly damage your vehicle’s A/C system, and end up costing you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars more. DON’T TAKE THE CHANCE.

The only true and permanent repair is to confirm system integrity, correct any leakage, or replace worn or damaged components. Then the system must be thoroughly evacuated (vacuum drawn on the system for testing), a leak detection dye is then added, and then the system is properly recharged with the correct refrigerant, while pressure is monitored. It’s just not worth the risk, do it right the first time professionally, and it’s good to go.

Value
At Atlantic Motorcar, we’re all about providing our customers not only Great Service but also Value. We understand that “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” (my mom would be proud I remembered that.), in other words, preventing, or catching problems like these brake lines early, can save you more than just money.

Finally
Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper or other European (and now Japanese) import, please contact us.

Our team of Service Specialists is here to help, for even the newest autos! (207) 882-9969.
Knowing, not just “doing”, that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way.

Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

Glazed and Confused – Brakes, Brake Pad Glazing and Stopping the Car

20 May at 9:55 am

Case Studies

Bruce Howes

Not The Glazing You Hoped For
Glazing. At first, sounds like a sugary treat. But there’s nothing sweet about this service concern. No, it’s not a new donut, or frosting spread on your car’s brake pads, but rather something that adversely occurs to brake pad friction material.

A minor glazing issue will usually self correct. A major one requires professional rework of the brake system, to assure that you have a safe auto. So, let’s start out by talking about brakes, and how they work.

Process, How Brakes Work
To understand any failure, it’s first important to understand how the system is supposed to properly work. Automotive brakes are basically an energy conversion and storage system. The physics of car brakes are pretty simple. To slow down and stop your car, your brake system turns kinetic energy (the movement of your wheels) into heat energy, by way of friction applied by your brakes to the wheels.

This heat is then dissipated by the brake pads, brake rotors and though the brake fluid, into the air. Once all the kinetic energy of the wheels has been converted to heat energy by the brakes, your car stops. Pretty simple, right? By nature and design, brakes work in adverse environments, and do it well for tens of thousands of miles.

The Parts
There are five major components that make up your vehicle brake system – Brake Master Cylinder, Brake Lines and Hoses, Brake Calipers, Brake Pads and Brake Rotors.

Of these, the last three, pads, calipers and rotors, are the usual culprits in a brake glazing concern, as they are most effected by heat, and most subjected to adverse conditions. During normal street use, brake rotors and pads normally see temperatures climb past 200 degrees Celsius, or 392 degrees Fahrenheit! That’s almost double the temperature required to boil water.

These are also the parts that should be inspected, and serviced as needed, on a regular basis, ideally every time your vehicle is in for service. Of all the systems on your car, your brake and steering are arguably the most critical.

Glazed Brake Pad So What Is Glazing?
Quite simply, brake glazing or “crystallization” is hardening of the brake friction material due to excessive heat. To complicate matters, the hard glazing typically transfers from the pad surface onto the brake disc (rotor).

That means the friction component is significantly diminished, resulting in reduced braking performance and often a noticeable brake shudder or vibration when brake pad material builds up unevenly on the disc. You may also see it manifest as cracks or fractures on the brake pads.

Glazing results in excessive stopping distances, and it can happen without the driver’s knowledge. It’s called “glazing” as the normally rough surface of the brake pads takes on a shiny, or frosted appearance.

Types
It’s important to distinguish between two types, one, which is light surface glazing, and is cleaned off with normal use in a few hundred miles.

The other, is deep and permanent glazing that transforms the structure of the brake pad, and often leads to cracking, or failure of the friction material.

Glazing Reasons
There are several reasons for brake pad glazing on passenger cars and trucks.

• Repeated hard and rapid braking at higher speeds raises the temperature to the point where it exceeds the limit of the pad material. This is usually evidenced by a strong and pungent burning smell.

• Driving with a foot on the brake pedal, called “riding the brakes” or dragging the brakes, keeps the pads in contact with the rotor. This constant rubbing spikes temperatures beyond the limits that passenger vehicle pads are designed for. Usually, but not always, evidenced by a strong and pungent burning smell.

• Continuous application of the brakes when coming down a steep hill can result in glazing. Often evidenced by a strong and pungent burning smell.

• Mechanical or hydraulic failure of the caliper can cause glazing. The caliper forces the pads to constantly rub against the rotor, like riding the brakes or coming down a steep hill.

This is the most dangerous cause of glazing because it often occurs without the driver’s knowledge. There are clues, a strong burning smell, and also the brake rotors will show signs of overheating, blue lines or areas of discoloration. Brake rotors may warp, causing brake pedal pulsation, or even get bright red and glow from the heat.

Glazed Brake Correction
Light Glazing, is self correcting, and will often clean off in a few hundred miles though normal brake use. This is the most common type and is often caused by “riding the brakes”.

Deep Glazing, where brake pad breakdown or damaged has occurred, can only be addressed in one way, the brake pads should be replaced and the rotors cleaned or replaced. Glazing compromises and ruins the friction material. The calipers and hydraulic system should be examined for mechanical problems or failure.

If glazing happens often, with no mechanical cause, the driver will need to evaluate their driving style. They may need to learn not to ride the brakes or to stop their vehicle constantly hard.

Other Options
Brake Pad/System change, though at Altantic Motorcar we are advocates to preferably install the factory designed parts, we realize that some clients will want to use their vehicles in different ways, some for performance or track use.

In these cases, we may be able to offer a superior designed brake pad, brake lines, or rotors, more suited to this level of “spirited driving”. Repeated failure of brake pads, with no underlying cause other than driving style, would be a good diagnostic indicator for this option.

Professional Brake Service
Brakes are one of those systems that appear low tech, and is often the first thing that folks tend to “farm out” or attempt themselves, thinking they are saving money. If there is one repair that we see again and again, that is subject to redo after a “DYI”, it is the brake system.

Over the last 35 years we have corrected more “do it yourself brake jobs” than any other system on the car. Incorrect parts, misdiagnosed, unnecessary repairs or parts replacement, seem to be the norm here.

On most European cars, calipers rarely need replacement, yet it’s the first thing we see done by those not familiar with these cars. Very often a waste of money, and a high quality factory part is replaced with a low grade aftermarket alternative. Likewise, brake fluid exchange, a simple service to prolong the life of your brake hydraulic system, is one of the most neglected.

Today’s complex ABS brake systems, electronic calipers, and computer controlled traction systems, require special training and equipment to service and diagnose.

The simple truth is that professional brake service, on one of the most critical safety systems of your car, is really no more costly in the end, by having a professional do it right, the first time. In fact, amortized over the life of a professionally serviced brake system, it’s remarkably inexpensive.

We aim to inform you about the minor problems before they become big ones. Right now, we have a number of customer cars with well over 200,000 miles and several approaching 300,000!

Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper, or other European (and now Japanese) import, please contact us. Our team of Service Specialists is here to help, for even the newest autos! (207) 882-9969.

Knowing, not just “doing,” that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way.

Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

Mercedes Magical SAM Module – Solving Electrical Problems and Keeping SAM Happy

24 Mar at 3:59 pm

Case Studies

Atlantic Motorcar Center

Background
This Mercedes presented with multiple external lights out, or not working correctly.

Locating the “SAM” under the coffee cup holder may not have been the best of design decisions. Then again, Europeans don’t really eat or drink in their cars.

So What’s A SAM?
SAM stands for Signal Acquisition Module in the Mercedes world. A SAM module receives data from sensors, switches, and controllers, and can send data, actuate (activate) components, and monitor systems.Mercedes-Benz has been using SAM modules since the mid-90s. SAMs come in a number of shapes and sizes, depending on where they are located on the car. Some are part of the fusebox, some are separate modules, most Mercedes usually have between four and five SAM units, depending on the complexity of the vehicle and systems.

Cool Technology
SAMs are very cool technology, replacing literally hundreds of discreet wires with a two or three-wire data network. They are usually super reliable and make your car more reliable…unless they get wet.

One of the top failures in the SAM control modules is water or in this case, liquid coffee damage, which leads to corrosion and eventual failure.

Typical Problems that cause SAM failure
Corrosion – It is possible that the SAM control module may have gotten wet, corroded, and eventually failed. Typically this is caused because the repair is performed near the SAM control unit. If the SAM modules are not closed and sealed, properly they will eventually corrode. If a SAM module fails due to corrosion, at first you may notice that electrical problems are intermittent.

Excessive Current Draw – SAM control units don’t fail often. Other than physical damage or corrosion the next most likely cause to make your SAM unit fail is an excessive current draw. If you’ve done modifications to your Mercedes-Benz or have a module that is drawing too much current that can damage your SAM unit.

Broken Wires – Broken wires or shorts can cause your SAM module to fail due to excessive current draw. We this often with rodent damage or insulation that has broken down.

Incorrect SAM Coding – If you just had your MB serviced and now you have a different problem it is possible that there is a programming issue. During a repair, a technician may have reprogramed a new sensor but they didn’t complete all the needed programming. If this is your situation, t is important to read all fault codes before you start doing any troubleshooting on your Mercedes-Benz.

Correction
In the early model years, you could replace the SAM unit with a used SAM from another Mercedes-Benz and not worry about any programming. Newer Mercedes-Benz models require SAM module programming and the new SAM unit will need to be coded with the Sofware Calibration Number (SCN). You will need to replace it with a new one if you need a SAM. The new SAM module will need to be coded and programmed using the Star Diagnostic System (which we have at AMC) once it is installed.

The Proper Repair
The only true and permanent repair is to replace the SAM module and carry out programming, being certain that the cause of the failure, water entry, or other, is corrected.

Finally
Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper or other European (and now Japanese) import, please contact us.

Our team of Service Specialists is here to help, for even the newest autos!
Don’t hesitate to call us today, at (207) 882-9969.

Knowing, not just “doing”, that’s the Atlantic Motorcar way.
Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

Sunroof Water Leaks And How To Prevent Them

November 10, 2021

Case Studies

Atlantic Motorcar Center

Tech Tip – How’s Your Sunroof Drains?

Important Service Tip – Make sure your sunroof tracks are clean and clear as debris will find their way into the drain system, causing water to backup or leak inside your car. Pine needles, and leaves, both pretty common this time of year, are not your friends. This is especially true if you park your vehicle outside, somehow that stuff always finds its way in.

How – You can “Do It Yourself” by fully opening your sunroof, inspecting the track, and the areas underneath. Then carefully and manually clearing away all the debris you see in the track, in extreme cases, you might need to use a vacuum cleaner. Try to avoid parking under trees, espcaully pine trees, if you can help it.

Check The Drains – Make sure your sunroof drains are clean and clear by slowing pouring a cup of water on each side, near the drain holes, and observing that it drains away. Modern sunroofs are not designed to seal perfectly from water entry, some always gets through, especially in the large glass panoramic designs. This is what the drains are for, to handle the water that finds its way in, and to direct it down the drains, and not into the car. By the way, this design is always the prime reason why aftermarket sunroofs almost always invariably leak, as they do not have the water track and drain system, and rely instead on a perfect seal.

Clogged Drains – Normally this water entry is not a problem, but when the drain tubes get clogged, all manner of havoc can break loose. These tubes are designed to take the water that makes it around the seal, and drain it down the front “A Pillars”, the metal channels on either side of the front windshield. Once these tubes clog, they often allow water to leak inside the car, making for a wet headliner, carpet, dash, or giving rise to all sorts of electrical gremlins. If you have clogged sunroof drains, seek immediate professional correction, before water entry damages your car, or its electronics. Be very careful about cleaning the drains with compressed air, or wire snakes, lest you disconnect, puncture or damage the drain tubes, requiring removal of the headliner of the vehicle to access and correct.

Twice Yearly – At Atlantic Motorcar Center, we advise checking these on a regular basis, and clean as needed, usually twice yearly. It’s important, if you are having your vehicle maintained elsewhere, to make sure this simple, but vital service is carried out. An ounce of prevention, worth a pound of cure.

All Cars – By the way, this is not use a Mini Cooper or VW problem, we see the same issue on Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Saab, Lexus, and other brands. If you have a sunroof, check the drains, sooner, rather than later, and as noted, this is doubly true if you park outside.

Value – At Atlantic Motorcar, we’re all about providing our customers not only Great Service but also Value. We understand that “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” (my mom would be proud I remembered that.), in other words, preventing, or catching problems like these brake lines early, can save you more than just money.

Finally – Questions, or if we can be of help in any way with service on your Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini Cooper or other European (and now Japanese) import, please contact us. Our team of Service Specialists is here to help, for even the newest autos! (207) 882-9969.

Knowing, not just “doing”, that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way.
Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

Mercedes Sprinter Service – Now In Midcoast Maine

October 13, 2021

Case Studies

Atlantic Motorcar Center

Mercedes Sprinter Service – Now In Midcoast Maine

We are now open for Sprinter Service and Diagnostics here in the midcoast!
We follow the Mercedes Service Schedule, handle Check Engine and Warning Lights, as well routine Mercedes A and B Services every 10,000 miles.

Ensure your vehicle remains capable of great performance by servicing your Sprinter van with the professional service team at Atlantic Motorcar.
We’ll get you in and out, quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime.

Our Bosch Certified Sprinter technicians use the latest technology to ensure that each vehicle is performing up to our highest standards,
and have the most up-to-date knowledge and technology, combined with factory parts so we can provide you with the high quality personal service, for you and your Sprinter!
3 Year /36,000 Mile Nationwide Warranty for your Peace Of Mind.

Please note that though we are a Sprinter Service Point, we are unable to accommodate very large Sprinter RV or box trucks to building limitations,
we are fine with most campers and work vans, so please call for information.

Call Atlantic Motorcar Sprinter Service at (207) 882-9969 for prompt, professional service!

The AMC Service Team

Don’t Knock The Humble Knock Sensor – Piezoelectric Knock Sensors – Design, Theory And Operation

October 13, 2021

Case Studies

Atlantic Motorcar Center

Don’t Knock The Humble Knock Sensor – Piezoelectric Knock Sensors – Design, Theory And Operation

What They Are
This is a quick technical dissertation will cover the design, function and how to test piezoelectric knock sensors on gasoline engine equipped vehicles.
Often buried deep down in the bowels of the engine, the knock sensor is one of those things that rarely fails, or is even discussed, until a problem occurs.
To put it simply, knock sensors are vibration sensors that are well suited to detect structure-borne acoustic oscillations.

Purpose
This can occur as knock in a gasoline engine when pre-ignition or detonation occur (unintended combustion).
The knock sensor converts the engine knock into an electrical signal, monitored by the engine control module.
The engine control module uses this signal to counteract engine knock via ignition timing adjustments.

Theory Of Operation
Inside the sensor is a toroidal piezoceramic element with an attached mass.
The mass reacts to the vibration caused by engine knock, in turn causing movement in the piezoceramic element which generates an electrical signal.
This is the signal used by the engine control module as described earlier.

An engine will utilize just enough knock sensors to reliably monitor engine knock.
On four-cylinder engines one knock sensor can be used, as it can easily monitor all of the cylinders. As engine cylinder count increases, more sensors are needed.
Most times knock sensors are split into banks. For example on a six-cylinder engine, bank 1 may be cylinders 1 -3 and bank 2 would be cylinder 4 – 6.

A Volvo engine equipped with one sensor.

A Mercedes-Benz engine equipped with two sensors.

**Knock Sensor – Mercedes 6 Cylinder Engine**

Sensor are mounted to the engine crankcase and secured with a bolt tightened to s specified torque.
This tightening torque is important, under or over torqued fasteners could reduce sensor reliability.
Then sensor is mounted directly to crankcase with no washers to a machined and clean surface.

Knock Sensor Crankcase Mounting Location

Testing
When sensors fail they can cause a few different faults. First of course if the sensor electrical circuit fails, you will receive a fault related to the circuit, such as a P0325.
This code refers to the sensor circuit, so it will likely be an electrical failure. P0326 may set, this fault code refers to sensor range / performance.
This can set due to signal out of range. The sensor can also fail, setting no fault codes but causing ignition timing to retard therefore reducing engine power.
This can be checked by viewing live data stream and confirming engine timing is being retarded.

When testing turn the Key On with the engine OFF, backprobe the sensor connector to check the bias voltage (this voltage is present for circuit integrity).
On most vehicles one wire will be battery negative (ground), the other will be reference voltage, 2.5 volts with connector plugged in and 5 volts with the connector unplugged.

Testing and Measurement – Knock Sensor Signal

Once you have tested circuit integrity and confirmed DC voltage is correct, you now have to test the sensor signal, which is an AC signal riding along the bias DC volts.
When knock occurs, the sensor will produce about spikes from 0 – 4.5 volts (depending on severity of knock).
You can lightly tap the area surrounding the sensor to manually test it. The sensor will produce a waveform as shown below.
You can also test the sensor using a DVOM in AC volt mode. Expect to see voltage generated in the same range as shown in the scope pattern.

Scope Pattern 1 – Knock Sensor Signal Without Knock Present

Scope Pattern 2 – Knock Sensor Signal With Knock Present

Still need help diagnosing an engine control input on any vehicle? Get in touch, we will get that vehicle fixed for you.

Value
At Atlantic Motorcar, we’re all about providing our customers not only Great Service but also Value. We understand that “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” (my mom would be proud I remembered that.), in other words, preventing, or catching problems like these brake lines early, can save you more than just money.

Knowing, not just “doing”, that’s the Atlantic Motorcar Center way.
Thanks!

Warmly,
The Atlantic Motorcar Center Service Team

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That’s Hot! – Air Conditioning and Climate Control Diagnosis and Service

Glazed and Confused – Brakes, Brake Pad Glazing and Stopping the Car

Mercedes Magical SAM Module – Solving Electrical Problems and Keeping SAM Happy

Sunroof Water Leaks And How To Prevent Them

Mercedes Sprinter Service – Now In Midcoast Maine

Don’t Knock The Humble Knock Sensor – Piezoelectric Knock Sensors – Design, Theory And Operation

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