Arduino strikes again...

Thread Starter

Hypatia's Protege

Joined Mar 1, 2015
3,228
Most newer models have safety features that prevent you from removing them. I don't know exactly how deep this goes, but I think I heard that if you remove the bulb, the computer won't let you start the car (or maybe just all of the dash lights go out). Can't tell you for sure though.
Sounds like a job for a 1/2 watt resistor -- or if the 'bulb' is an led, a few series connected silicon diodes and a resistor -- Still, pulling the dash apart can get to be work -- That said an instrument panel is as nothing by comparison with the dreaded heater core replacement:eek::eek::eek:

Best regards
HP
 

#12

Joined Nov 30, 2010
18,224
Simple fix.. pull the bulb.. ;)
Some days the magic works, and some days it doesn't.:(

The idiot light on this one is really an alpha-numeric display. If I put black tape over the display that says, "Check Tire Pressure" it will blank out all the other messages. After further study, I will know if they are all worthless and deserve to be blanked out. Right now, that is pretty far down the list. I'm still working on suspension. After that comes brakes, then air conditioning, then coolant system, then interior lighting. If I don't find any other functional systems that don't, I will start on idiot lights.:)
 

DerStrom8

Joined Feb 20, 2011
2,390
Sounds like a job for a 1/2 watt resistor -- or if the 'bulb' is an led, a few series connected silicon diodes and a resistor -- Still, pulling the dash apart can get to be work -- That said an instrument panel is as nothing by comparison with the dreaded heater core replacement:eek::eek::eek:

Best regards
HP
That's fair. Engineers can hack just about anything. The person I spoke to was a car nut, and a car nut only. Had no experience with electronics whatsoever.
 

ISB123

Joined May 21, 2014
1,236
A 3 cylinder engine.. ha ha.. Whats that in your lawnmower :D
I think all cars have always been designed to fail
I dont have a such engine nor I would let anyone park that fart can in my yard. Fuel cost is bullshit in EU thats why they can produce such lame engines and get away with it.
 

#12

Joined Nov 30, 2010
18,224
amen to that..
even under warranty
Yeah. I loved that free recall that required a dab of glue on the sporty steering wheel cover, followed by a tune-up, several fluid changes, brake inspection, computerized diagnostic charge, ECM software update, inventory of all light bulbs and security functions, air cleaner, PCV valve, alignment check, chassis lubrication, new muffler bearings, tire tread depth inspection, a charge for shop supplies, EPA disposal fees, and a partridge in a pear tree.
 

JoeJester

Joined Apr 26, 2005
4,390
I knew it was the battery on it's last leg. What I did notice was once the alternator wasn't reaching 12.6 volts and a 2 ampere charge was complete quickly (less than 30 minutes). I didn't have a decent battery tester, other than the starter, and I wanted a constant load. I could have yanked out the battery and alternator and took them to autozone for their free test, but I chose not to. It was time to contribute to the economy.
 

Thread Starter

Hypatia's Protege

Joined Mar 1, 2015
3,228
I knew it was the battery on it's last leg. What I did notice was once the alternator wasn't reaching 12.6 volts and a 2 ampere charge was complete quickly (less than 30 minutes). I didn't have a decent battery tester, other than the starter, and I wanted a constant load. I could have yanked out the battery and alternator and took them to autozone for their free test, but I chose not to. It was time to contribute to the economy.
I hear you! Sometimes Often 'throwing money' at problems is the most practical route -- There are better ways of spending one's time than fighting rust, grease and 'the inner vandal':eek::D:D:D

Best regards
HP
 

Thread Starter

Hypatia's Protege

Joined Mar 1, 2015
3,228
So... a bit of "Googling' tells me that there is a food vender (To wit: "Vandal Meats") located in the city of Moscow in the US state of Idaho -- still, it seems you have the advantage of me?:confused:

EDIT -- Their varsity team seems to rejoice under the name 'Vandals' also... Still:confused:

As an aside -- life in that town must have been pure magic back in the McCarthy era!:eek::eek::eek::D

Best regards
HP
 
Last edited:

JohnInTX

Joined Jun 26, 2012
4,787
TPMS for $$$ - zowie. Costco throws in rebuilding the TPMS inside the tire as part of the mount/balance/road hazard so they can't be that expensive. A quick search on tpms rebuild kit brings up lots of hits for a few bucks - a few more for more stuff.
Don't forget to check the pressure in the spare tire - that will report low on several makes.
Not all use internal sensors, some watch differential wheel speed. Some info.
 
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