Monday, May 19, 2014
How to Manually Engage an A C Compressor
If the air-conditioning compressor on a late model car does not engage, the system is probably low on rigerant and the low-pressure switch prevents the compressor from turning on. This problem goes away by simply adding rigerant. Opening a can of R134a into the system usually overrides the low-pressure switch and allows the air-conditioning compressor to engage normally. On older cars, the air-conditioning compressor has to be engaged manually to recharge the system. The procedure is simple and usually takes less than a minute.
Instructions
- 1
Check the compressor oil level. Add more oil if necessary. Since different manufacturers have different procedures for checking compressor oil levels and filling compressors with oil, er to the auto manufacturers shop manual for specific instructions.
2Locate the single wire connector near the front of the compressor and unplug it.
3Hook one end of the fused jumper wire to the compressor side of the wire connector.
4Hook the other end of the jumper wire to the positive terminal of the battery. By supplying voltage to the compressor, the compressor will engage manually without even turning on the air-conditioning switch inside the car.
Monday, January 20, 2014
How to Manually Reset the Service Engine Light in a BMW 3 Series
The Service Engine Light on your BMW 3 Series is monitored and controlled by the Engine Control Module or ECM. It keeps track of all routine maintenance and servicing requirements of your BMW. When this light illuminates, you should have your BMW serviced before attempting to manually reset the light. The best way to reset it is to use a computerized scan tool obtained from your local auto parts retailer. This tool can be purchased or borrowed for free from most auto parts stores.
Instructions
- 1
Put the key into the ignition and turn the vehicle to the "on" position but dont start the engine.
2Find the diagnostic port under the drivers side dashboard near the pedals. Plug the computerized scan tool into this port. The battery from the vehicle will automatically power on the tool.
3Find arrows on the faceplate of the scan tool and use them to scroll through the menu until you find the "Read All Codes" command. Select this command.
4Scroll through the menu again and find "Clear All Codes." Select this option then wait for the service engine light to shut off.
5Turn off the vehicle and wait five minutes. Start the engine and verify that the check engine light is still off.
