A Honda N-WGN brought in for its 24-month inspection (Japanese vehicle inspection) had its engine warning light (and, by design, the Vehicle Stability Assist warning light) illuminated since it was purchased as a used car about two years ago. This condition would not pass the current periodic inspection. There were signs that the vehicle had been used in areas where … [Read more...] about The Melancholy of Camshaft Rotation Phase Deviation (DBA-JH1 Honda N-WGN)
Japanese Cars
Danger! A Hissing Sound from the Engine Bay… (Suzuki Alto DBA-HA24S during Regular Inspection)
A Suzuki Alto was brought in for shaken (the legally mandated periodic inspection in Japan). This model of Alto has aged, and this particular vehicle was in for its 18th regular inspection. It had reached a stage where a more thorough inspection was necessary. Specifications: 2005 model, DBA-HA24S, K6A engine, 4AT, odometer reading 79,000 km While listening to the … [Read more...] about Danger! A Hissing Sound from the Engine Bay… (Suzuki Alto DBA-HA24S during Regular Inspection)
A Common Issue? Loose Shift Lever Rendering Vehicle Inoperable (DBA-L175S Daihatsu Move)
Certain Daihatsu models have been experiencing cases where shift operation suddenly becomes impossible. The issue stems from the deterioration and disintegration of the plastic component connecting the shift lever to the transmission wire cable on the shift lever side, resulting in a physical disconnection. Specifications: 2007 model, DBA-L175S, KF-VE engine, 4AT, … [Read more...] about A Common Issue? Loose Shift Lever Rendering Vehicle Inoperable (DBA-L175S Daihatsu Move)
Solving a Years-Long Air Conditioning Problem (Subaru Sambar TV2 Cooling Fan Motor Malfunction)
I first received a consultation about an ineffective air conditioning system exactly three years ago. Although Subaru's in-house production of the iconic Sambar ended quite some time ago, I hear that the truck, van, and wagon versions of this model remain extremely popular. The Sambar in question, which had been purchased used just before the consultation, had a … [Read more...] about Solving a Years-Long Air Conditioning Problem (Subaru Sambar TV2 Cooling Fan Motor Malfunction)
Reflections on Japanese Car Design Philosophy After Completing a Clutch Replacement on the Enchanting Lightweight MT Daihatsu Mira
In the tough work of car maintenance, which leaves hands covered in oil, arms full of scratches, and requires long hours in uncomfortable positions, good "maintainability" is a very important factor. For us mechanics who engage in maintenance work every day, it's a joyful moment when we can feel the kindness and consideration of the engineers. When I mainly work on … [Read more...] about Reflections on Japanese Car Design Philosophy After Completing a Clutch Replacement on the Enchanting Lightweight MT Daihatsu Mira
What I Did to Install a Winch Securely (Jimny Sierra ABA-JB43W)
It was already 4 years ago when I assembled a lift kit (3 inches) for the Jimny Sierra, perhaps because the owner saw through my self-serving personality and cleverly persuaded me. The exterior appearance, with the body raised about 10 centimeters, was finished in an imposing style that overlooks the world. Merits and Demerits of Lift up Part 2 (Suzuki Jimny … [Read more...] about What I Did to Install a Winch Securely (Jimny Sierra ABA-JB43W)
Struggling with Thermostat Replacement on Suzuki Lapin Turbo CVT Model (CBA-HE22S K6A+CVT During Coolant Leak Repair)
Title: Struggling with Thermostat Replacement on Suzuki Lapin Turbo CVT Model (CBA-HE22S K6A+CVT During Coolant Leak Repair) Coolant leaks from radiators frequently occur during winter. In both summer and winter, coolant temperature rises to around 90°C, but the greater temperature difference in winter puts more stress on the radiator tank joints. 2009 model, … [Read more...] about Struggling with Thermostat Replacement on Suzuki Lapin Turbo CVT Model (CBA-HE22S K6A+CVT During Coolant Leak Repair)
How Far It Can Go! Improving the Ride Comfort of a Kei Car ~ Suzuki Lapin HE22S Installation of Custom-Made Suspension Plus Springs ~
This Lapin, which is about to undergo its second shock absorber replacement at 13 years old, has exceeded 130,000 kilometers in mileage. 2009 model CBA-HE22S K6A Turbo CVT 4WD, mileage: 132,000km The slight engine oil seepage that began at around 90,000 kilometers has become completely unnoticeable thanks to the mysterious effect of the popular additive Maruyama … [Read more...] about How Far It Can Go! Improving the Ride Comfort of a Kei Car ~ Suzuki Lapin HE22S Installation of Custom-Made Suspension Plus Springs ~
A Car’s True Condition Begins at 100,000 Kilometers – Daihatsu Move Cooling System Refresh DBA-L175S –
I'll translate the content from Japanese to English while maintaining the HTML structure. Here's the translation: Title: A Car's True Condition Begins at 100,000 Kilometers Daihatsu Move Cooling System Refresh DBA-L175S The 100,000 kilometer mark that was once considered the benchmark for car replacement. Due to improvements in parts processing precision and material … [Read more...] about A Car’s True Condition Begins at 100,000 Kilometers – Daihatsu Move Cooling System Refresh DBA-L175S –
The Unique Axle Structure of Rigid Axles and Removal of Press-Fitted Parts (ABA-JB43W Jimny Sierra Rear Axle Shaft Bearing Replacement)
Nowadays, independent suspension has become mainstream for vehicle suspensions, but for example, the rear suspensions of Suzuki and Daihatsu light commercial vehicles still use the traditional link-type rigid axle. With fewer parts, a simple and sturdy design, it may still be the mainstream structure for cost-sensitive vehicles. And the authentic cross-country JB43W Jimny … [Read more...] about The Unique Axle Structure of Rigid Axles and Removal of Press-Fitted Parts (ABA-JB43W Jimny Sierra Rear Axle Shaft Bearing Replacement)
