Issue link: http://undercardigest.epubxp.com/i/532830
July 2015 33 I moved on to the second TSB that I found related to "No communica- tion" errors. This refer- ence number is GROUP 01, NO. 06-13 (2002025). This Technical Service Bulletin states that no communication with the scan tool may be caused by improper installation of aftermarket accessories (including radios, hint- hint) in model years 1996 and newer vehicles. This particular Beetle had an aftermarket radio installed (Figure 2). After radio re- moval, we found what we had been looking for. Apparently, the installer had taped the radio's power wire into the computer data lines system wire. This is the gray-and-white wire at the #3 terminal of the original radio connector (Figure 3). I disconnected this wire from the aftermarket radio, and like magic, the scanner had communication. I connected the radio's power wire to the correct 12-volt ignition source at terminal #4 of the original radio con- nector, which is properly fused at fuse #37. Bus communications were no longer compromised, and I rein- stalled the radio, albeit correctly this time (Figure 4). After a little bit of a detour, I was back in business and was now able to carry out my test drive and ob- serve the scanner information. I was able to verify all of the described symptoms. There were hard 2-3, 3-4 and 5-6 upshifts and downshifts. I also felt a 4-5 upshift flare and de- layed harsh engagement into gear after being warmed up. Upon scan- ning the computer, I also found that there were no trouble codes indicat- ing any electrical issues. I then veri- fied that all scanner parameters read normal, and after raising the vehicle to inspect the fluid in the sealed transmission (no dipstick), I found that the transmission fluid was burnt and black, and deter- mined that the transmission had in- ternally failed. This particular case was not the most difficult, but provided a bit of a challenge to solve the communica- tion issue. Thankfully, after just a little extra time, the problem was easily corrected, another transmis- sion was sold, and we have another happy customer out on the road. Unfortunately for the customer, it cost a little more than $40 this time. Thank you for the business, Mr. DIY Ninja! â– Troy Hopp has been in the automotive repair industry his entire career and has been with Certified Transmission since February 2010. He has an Applied Science Degree in Automotive Technology from Western Iowa Tech and is an ASE Master Certified Technician. 2 3 4 Bosch Copper-Free Brake Pads Use Renewable Materials to Make Them Even More Environmentally Safe Bosch, the worldwide leader in brak- ing technology, now uses a proprietary copper-free ceramic friction formulation that incorporates renewable materials to make its premium-grade QuietCastâ„¢ brake pads even more environmentally safe. Much like the alloy used to replace copper in the aerospace industry, this material has proven to be successful in automotive use too. It ensures better heat dissipation on the surface of the pad and maintains a protective film that protects the pad as well as the rotor for a longer life. Furthermore, its light weight contributes to fuel economy. Since the new, proprietary copper- free ceramic brake friction formulation is a significant industry development, Bosch has filed for patent protection in North America and other key markets. The changeover to copper-free brake pads is currently in process at Bosch with plans to have the entire braking portfolio be compliant with the 2025 guideline well before that date. To indicate the level of copper in its copper-free brake pads, Bosch will be rolling out updated packaging featuring the industry standard LeafMark. Bosch offers coverage for Domestic, Asian and European vehicles. Information: http://www.boschau- toparts.com/auto/brakes. Circle No. 34 on Reader Card