October 2020

OCTOBER 2020 AFTERMARKET 55 www.aftermarketonline.net Training technical tip: DPF pressure hose failure warning First Line is looking to raise awareness in the aftermarket on the premature failure potential latent in the DPF pressure hoses fitted on the Ford Mondeo IV and its derivatives. First Line Global Marketing Director Jon Roughley said: “Technicians should check their condition whenever they undertake work on these applications. “These vehicles are fitted with a pair of rubber hoses, which run to and from the exhaust system either side of the DPF and allow the pressure sensor to monitor the differential either side of the DPF, and consequently calculate how ‘full’ the DPF is and therefore when it needs to carry out a regeneration. “Due to the arduous conditions these hoses operate in, such as very high temperature fluctuations – up to 600ºC during regeneration – it is not uncommon for the rubber to become fatigued, hardened, brittle or scorched, which ultimately leads to their failure, causing incorrect readings to the differential pressure sensor.” Jon continued, “In addition to their regular inspection if the vehicle is reporting engine fault codes relating to the DPF or differential pressure sensor, for example: P2002, which means the DPF efficiency is below limit (cylinder bank 1), P2452, DPF pressure sensor ‘A’ circuit or P2453, DPF pressure sensor ‘A’ circuit range/performance, then there is a possibility that the differential pressure sensor hoses are the cause and require replacement.” He added: “By first evaluating the condition of the hoses, technicians can save the vehicle owner timely and costly repairs, as this is a simple 45 minute job. However, in order to gain access, the vehicle will need to be on a ramp and the sub-frame cross brace, which is located just behind the engine, has to be removed.” The RMI Academy ADAS Courses The RMI Academy of Automotive Skills provides training for all aspects of running a garage business, and is the UK’s largest provider of MOT training. This issue, we are highlighting its suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) courses. With the EU making a number of ADAS technologies mandatory in new vehicles from May 2022, it is vital that technicians understand these systems and have the knowledge to service and calibrate vehicles with ADAS fitted. ADAS Introduction & Awareness is a half-day course, designed to provide an overview of ADAS procedures within the workplace. It covers safety features, usage of equipment and advise technicians of the various equipment manufacturers within the industry. This course is suitable for most individuals who work in a garage, including receptionists, sales staff, vehicle fitters and technicians who want to gain a further understanding of ADAS. No prior knowledge or experience is required. ADAS Awareness & Practical is a full-day course designed to provide a more in-depth knowledge of ADAS procedures and equipment, and contains a practical element to help technicians develop pinpoint accuracy of equipment, target positioning and general operation involved within calibration. Key topics within this course include ADAS code of practice, sensors, reversing aids, radar systems, targets, and re-calibration. The course is aimed at vehicle fitters, technicians and bodyshop technicians who want to gain a further understanding of ADAS. Basic vehicle knowledge is recommended, however no prior ADAS knowledge or experience is required. RMI members receive preferential pricing as a benefit of membership. Enquire or book a course by calling 0845 305 4230, or visit RMItrainingAcademy .co.uk . DENSO’s webinar programme continued to expand over the summer. Two more sessions on air conditioning and thermal management and three further dates for oxygen sensors were uploaded in July. Spark plugs were then also added in August as the number of product categories grew. The programme was introduced in response to the Coronavirus crisis to provide technicians with ongoing training while lockdown measures were in place. It has grown in popularity according to DENSO Europe Pan European Strategic Marketing Manager Fatiha Laauich: “Due to their combination of tips and advice, as well as guidance concerning common faults and reasons for failure, the first series of webinars were not only well received by technicians, but their timing couldn’t have been better with the unseasonably good weather and the easing of the lockdown restrictions meaning motorists started to return to the road.” She continued: “The additional modules, which include first oxygen sensors and then spark plugs, are both highly relevant subjects that due to the vital role they play in ensuring vehicle emissions comply with Government requirements and MOT certification, as well to provide the optimum in terms of fuel economy for motorists, made them the obvious choice. “They will again be presented by our highly respected European specialist team, who have enormous technical knowledge and experience. They are very comfortable with technical presentations, as has been evident with the popularity of the air conditioning and thermal management webinars, they can engage technicians by providing a combination of best practice principles and specialist mechanical knowhow, presented in a natural and relatable style.” Fatiha added: “Ultimately though, the purpose behind the webinar programme is to inform and educate the audience to enable technicians and the workshops they represent, to improve the service they provide for their customers and help to assure the long-term future of their businesses.” To to sign up to the webinar programme and book a slot through the training calendar, visit: https://www.denso-am.co.uk/special- pages/training-calendar/ DENSO webinars go large