The team at the ALLDATA Info Centre has recently solved two vehicle problems for garages.
Problem 1 – 2020 ŠKODA KAROQ 1.0 TSI
The customer reported ‘jerking’ when accelerating, but, despite clear symptoms, the vehicle’s fault memory did not show any corresponding indications.
The workshop technician took the vehicle out for a test drive, where it was confirmed that, at higher speeds, the driver would feel significant vibrations throughout the vehicle, particularly in the steering wheel. A quick diagnosis would be tough because there were no error codes or messages displayed on the dashboard, but the technician was confident that the cause would be mechanical, rather than electronic.
Solution
A targeted search for “vibrations” led the professional to the appropriate, unedited technical product information from the vehicle manufacturer. The data showed ‘incorrect wheel balancing’, ‘rim damage’ or ‘tyre deformation due to prolonged inactivity’ as common causes of wheel vibrations. Consequently, the workshop technician inspected the wheels and tyres, with a measurement showing that two wheels had a significant radial and lateral run-out – a problem that is not immediately visible but can cause severe vibrations.
The professional was able to balance the two affected wheels and position the tyres accurately. Upon another test drive, the jerking had stopped, and the vehicle ran smoothly once more. Without the assistance of ALLDATA Repair, diagnosing the issue would have taken longer and could have led to unnecessary and costly repairs.
Problem 2 – 2017 VAUXHALL MOVANO B COMBI
A workshop faced a tough ask when the injectors of a 2017 Vauxhall Movano B Combi needed to be serviced – but the cylinder numbering was not visible on the vehicle’s documents. So how did the technician count the cylinder sequence? Without the correct information, the technician would likely have disconnected the injectors or dismantled them – a risk that could have exacerbated the issue to the detriment of the motorist.
Solution
To provide the motorist with the best service and quickly return their vehicle to the road, the workshop technician contacted the ALLDATA Info Centre. A targeted search for the relevant VM schematics for the engine control and glow plugs showed that one glow plug is equipped with a combustion chamber pressure sensor – a clear indication of cylinder one. With this crucial information, the technician was able to determine the correct cylinder sequence.
Why is cylinder numbering important?
Correct cylinder numbering is essential for accurate fault diagnosis. In modern engines with common rail direct injection, each injector is individually programmed to its corresponding cylinder. Incorrect assignment can cause misfiring, rough running or power loss.
