Autoelectro identifies and solves technical challenges

Autoelectro, the UK’s largest independent remanufacturer of starter motors and alternators, continues to provide technicians with the latest up-to-date technical information. This information ensures accurate diagnosis and correct fitting, with the latest two bulletins focusing on Toyota and Mini models.

Focusing on the Toyota first, a problem has been discovered with the ignition switch and wiring harness on the Aygo 1.4 D-4D (2005-2012).

The issue can cause various complications, which can prevent the vehicle from starting. The vehicle could ‘crank’ but fail to start; the ignition switch could stick in the start position or the starter motor could run but not disengage.

If these problems arise, the technician should replace the ignition switch and check the wiring harness – replacing it if required.

There are other symptoms, associated with the ignition switch and wiring harness, which could indicate a starter motor failure:
• Blue colour on armature shaft
• Rattling when the starter motor is shaken
• Burning smell emanating from the starter motor
• Damaged teeth found on the starter motor
• Leaking varnish from the starter motor
• Melted, burnt, discoloured or broken wire connected from the solenoid to the starter motor body

Should the symptoms show, the starter motor should be replaced – with Autoelectro part number AEU1260.

Fitting error causing engine coolant leak

Meanwhile, Autoelectro has recognised a trend – affecting part number AEC1868 – that has prompted the Bradford-based remanufacturer to release another bulletin.

It was created after reports surfaced of alternators fitted to the Mini R50/R52/R53 1.4 and 1.6 petrol (2001-2009) – and all vehicles with W10 engine codes from 2003-onwards – being returned, subject to warranty claims, due to the drive belt slipping and, consequently, causing a charging fault.
After an investigation conducted by Autoelectro’s team of experts, it has been determined that a fitting error – rather than a fault with the unit – was causing the vehicle’s engine coolant to leak onto the drive bracket, causing the drive belt to slip.

During its analysis, the experts discovered that the coolant pipe, which runs parallel above the alternator and across the mounting brackets, was not being detached or moved into a safe position when removing the original alternator.

Therefore, the pipe rubbed against the alternator mounting bolts, causing a coolant leak, which dripped onto the alternator and drive belt and resulting in the drive belt slipping.

In all cases, the technician must ensure that the pipe is clear from the mounting bolts when replacing the alternator; if the pipe is damaged, it must be replaced.

Failure to abide by the diagnosis and fitting instructions of both technical bulletins, may cause the replacement parts to fail and the warranty become invalid.

Autoelectro continues to grow its technical bulletin library

The latest bulletins from Autoelectro are two of more than 500 articles available to access and download from the company’s website – www.autoelectro.co.uk – which provides free advice to technicians.

They can register and subscribe now to access a library of information, as well as receive the latest bulletins via e-mail, ensuring they can ‘fit and forget’, as it states clearly on Autoelectro’s bright red packaging.

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