Cutting-edge technology at the service of your vehicle. Thermal imaging is an advanced diagnostic method that allows for the rapid and accurate detection of anomalies invisible to the naked eye. At EXPRESS AutoCare, we use this technology to offer an even more reliable and efficient diagnostic service.
WHAT IS AUTOMOTIVE THERMAL IMAGING?
Thermal imaging captures temperature variations emitted by various vehicle components. Using an infrared camera, our technicians can visualize the hot and cold areas of a mechanical, electrical, or electronic system as a color image. Common applications of thermal imaging in automotive mechanics:
ENGINE TUNE-UP
Detecting Combustion Problems:
- One or more underperforming cylinders generate temperature differences visible with the thermal imaging camera.
Identifying faulty injectors:
- A clogged or leaking injector causes significant thermal differences between the cylinders.
Checking the coils and spark plugs for proper operation:
- An ignition problem often causes heat differences that are immediately noticeable.
BATTERY, ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT
Detecting faulty connections:
- Poor contact, loose, or oxidized connections cause localized overheating, which is easy to spot using a thermal imaging camera.
Identifying Overloaded Cables:
- A wire that heats up abnormally may indicate an overload problem or the beginning of a short circuit.
Electronic Module Diagnostics:
- Identify internal electronic components that are overheating or operating outside their normal thermal ranges.
12V and high-voltage battery monitoring (EVs/hybrids):
- Identify overheated cells, internal thermal imbalances, or terminal connection problems.
Fire Risk Prevention:
- By quickly locating risk areas before a more serious problem arises.
AIR CONDITIONING AND CLIMATE CONTROL
Cooling Performance Verification:
- The thermal imaging camera allows for real-time measurement of the temperature difference between the air nozzles and system components.
Detecting blockages or leaks:
- A partially blocked condenser or a dirty evaporator shows irregular temperature zones that are easily visible under infrared light.
Checking the operation of the air distribution flaps:
- Checks whether hot and cold air are being directed to the correct locations in the passenger compartment.
Identifying ventilation problems:
- A faulty blower fan or insufficient airflow results in poor heat distribution.
Condenser and Compressor Check:
- Quick analysis of areas of overheating or lack of cooling.
RADIATOR AND COOLING CIRCUIT
Detecting Coolant Circulation Problems:
- A faulty water pump causes poor coolant circulation, which is visible through abnormal temperature differences in the circuit.
Detecting Coolant Circulation Problems:
- A faulty water pump causes poor coolant circulation, which is visible through abnormal temperature differences in the circuit.
Detecting faulty fans:
- A malfunctioning fan causes abnormal heat buildup around the radiator and engine.
Identifying relay, fuse, or electrical connection problems:
- Overheating cables or electrical terminals often indicate poor contact or overloading.
BRAKES AND BRAKING SYSTEM
Quick detection of seized brakes:
- An abnormally high temperature on one or more calipers often indicates a problem with seizure or poor piston return.
Identifying Braking Imbalances:
- A temperature difference between wheels on the same axle can indicate uneven wear, a faulty caliper, or poor brake force distribution.
Safety and Prevention:
- Preventive diagnostics using a thermal camera can help prevent sudden braking system failures.
WHEEL BEARINGS
Detecting Early Failures:
- A defective bearing generates localized overheating that is clearly visible with a thermal imaging camera, often before any noise is even noticeable.
Diagnostic Accuracy:
- By comparing the temperature of both wheels on the same axle, our technicians can easily identify abnormal differences.
Preventing Major Failures:
- An overheated bearing can eventually seize or break, causing significant damage and the risk of loss of control.
PNEUMATICS AND GEOMETRY
Complete inspection of wheel, tire, and valve:
- To detect cracks, porosity, or leaks.
Uneven Tire Wear:
- Misalignment or a suspension problem often results in uneven tread temperature.
Poor load distribution:
- An imbalance or geometry problem can cause localized overheating in certain tires.
Early Anomaly Detection:
- Using thermal imaging, our technicians can identify abnormal overheating areas due to poor pressure, misalignment, or premature wear in just a few seconds.
Improved Safety:
- By identifying problems before they become critical, you improve traction, reduce the risk of flat tires, and optimize handling.
EXHAUST AND EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
Rapid detection of internal obstructions:
- A clogged catalytic converter or particulate filter generates abnormal temperature differences throughout the system.
Leak Identification:
- An exhaust leak can cause temperature variations that are easily detected with a thermal imaging camera.
Performance Verification:
- A precise diagnosis of the thermal performance of the catalytic converter, DPF, or SCR can detect any potential malfunctions.
Preventive Maintenance:
- By identifying early signs of failure, you can avoid costly and premature repairs.
VEHICLE INSPECTION AND CHECK-UP
Invisible to the naked eye:
- Leaks, overheating, obstructions, or thermal imbalances are immediately visible thanks to infrared analysis.
Multi-System Diagnostics:
- Thermal imaging allows you to inspect multiple components in a single pass: cooling system, brakes, exhaust, suspension, tires, bearings, battery, and electrical circuits.
Rapid identification of risk areas:
- Before more serious symptoms appear, we detect weak points that could cause a breakdown.
Preventative or Pre-Purchase Inspection:
- Ideal for checking a used vehicle before purchasing or for performing a preventive check before a long trip.
Detailed Visual Report:
- We provide you with a report with supporting thermal photos, so you can visualize problem areas.
HYBRID, PLUG-IN HYBRID OR ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV)
High Voltage (HV) Battery Analysis:
- Identify defective cells, localized overheating, or thermal imbalances that could affect battery life and performance.
Checking the battery and electric motor cooling system:
- The thermal imaging camera ensures that the temperature remains stable and within safe ranges, avoiding any risk of overheating.
High Voltage Wiring Problem Detection:
- Quickly identify resistance points, loose contacts, or overheated cables.
Power Component Inspection:
- Converters, inverters, and electric motors may be subject to abnormal heating that can be detected by thermography.
Fast, no-disassembly diagnostics:
- Provides an overview of critical systems without having to disassemble components.
Schedule A Quick Appointment (450) 681-1414
Air Intake System Inspection: Air filter, intake manifold, intake valves, idle air control (IAC) valve, mass air flow meter (MAF) and intake tubes.
Fuel System Inspection Operation of the throttle valve, pump, condition of the fuel filter, injectors and fuel lines.
Ignition System Inspection: Spark plugs, ignition cables, distributor cap, rotor, ignition coils, oxygen sensor and timing belt.
Air Intake System Maintenance: Replacing air filter, intake valves and cleaning the air intake system.
Fuel System Maintenance: Replacing fuel filter, cleaning injectors and throttle valve.
Ignition System Maintenance: Replacing spark plugs, ignition cables, distributor cap, rotor, ignition coils and oxygen sensor.
Air Intake System Repair: Air leak at intake manifold, replacing intake valves, idle air control (IAC) valve, mass flow meter air (MAF) and intake tubes.
Fuel System Repair: Replacing throttle valve, fuel pump, injectors and fuel lines.
Ignition System Repair: Replacing spark plugs, ignition cables, distributor cap, rotor, ignition coils, oxygen sensor and timing belt.
Check-Engine Warnings Lights: Scanner analysis to determine the origin of the problem, poor acceleration, engine hesitation, irregular idling, engine starts with difficulty or does not start.
Vehicle road test before delivery, using several simulations and driving maneuvers to test engine and transmission performance at acceleration and at idle to ensure the systems proper functioning and that no fault lights ON.
When considering an engine tune-up for off-road driving you will likely want to optimize your vehicle's power, torque, and responsiveness while taking into account the specific demands of off-road driving. Here are some points to consider:
Power & Torque:
- Consider modifications such as high-performance air filters, upgraded exhausts, and electronic engine management adjustments to increase horsepower and torque, which can be helpful in overcoming obstacles and difficult terrain.
Engine Responsiveness:
- Opt for throttle and engine response settings that provide better responsiveness at low revs, which can be crucial for controlling the vehicle over rough and unpredictable terrain.
Cooling:
- Make sure the engine cooling system is adequate to handle the added stresses of off-road driving. This may include installing larger radiators or upgraded cooling systems.
Sustainability:
- Reinforce critical engine components for off-road use, such as radiators, oil pan guards, underbody guards, and air intake system guards, to minimize damage. risk of damage.
Filtration:
- Opt for high-quality air filters and filtration systems that can protect the engine from dust, dirt and debris encountered while driving off-road.
Regular Maintenance:
- Be sure to follow a regular maintenance schedule for your engine, including frequent oil changes, replacing air and oil filters, and regularly inspecting components for signs of potential problems.
Field Testing & Adjustment:
- After making engine tune-up modifications, test them in different types of terrain to ensure they meet your specific off-road driving needs. Be prepared to adjust settings accordingly.
Environmental Considerations:
- Make sure any modifications to your engine meet local emissions and environmental regulations to minimize the environmental impact of your vehicle.
- By performing an engine tune-up suitable for off-road drivingyou can improve the performance and reliability of your vehicle while ensuring its durability in harsh conditions. Be sure to consider the specific needs of your vehicle and driving style, and consider consulting an auto service professional for advice specific to your situation.
- Washing the underside of the chassis,the importance of washing the underside of your vehicle with a high-pressure jet to remove salt, sludge, leaves and stones.
When looking for service tips for your vehicle's tune-up and diagnostics, here are some important recommendations to consider:
Regular Maintenance:
- Schedule regular maintenance appointments for your vehicle, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This may include oil changes, filter replacements, general inspections and other preventative maintenance services.
Early Diagnosis:
- If you notice any unusual symptoms such as noises, vibrations, leaks, or poor performance, have your vehicle diagnosed as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can help avoid major and costly problems in the future.
Diagnostic Equipment Use:
- Use advanced diagnostic equipment to accurately identify possible problems with your vehicle. OBD-II scanners and other diagnostic tools can provide accurate fault codes to aid in the diagnostic process.
Visual Inspection:
- Perform regular visual inspections of your vehicle for signs of damage or wear. This may include inspection of engine components, transmission system, suspension, brakes, steering, on-board electronics, etc.
Follow Manufacturer's Recommendations:
- Follow the manufacturer's maintenance and tune-up recommendations for your vehicle. This may include replacement intervals for spark plugs, air and fuel filters, transmission and coolant fluids, and other recommended services.
Consult Qualified Professionals:
- If you are unsure about what repairs or adjustments need to be made to your vehicle, consult a qualified automotive service professional. They can perform accurate diagnostics and recommend necessary repairs to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Be Proactive:
- Don't wait for problems to develop before taking action. Be proactive in maintaining and repairing your vehicle to avoid unplanned breakdowns and extend its lifespan.
Complete Automobile & Truck Services.
Automotive repairs, tune-ups and diagnostics are essential aspects of maintaining your vehicle to ensure its proper operation and safety. Here are some general tips for repairs, tuning and diagnostics:
Accurate diagnosis:
- Before carrying out any repairs or tune-up, we will carry out a precise diagnosis to identify the specific problems with your vehicle.
Use Appropriate Service Manuals & Tools:
- We use the appropriate tools and equipment to perform repairs and diagnostics plus we refer to service manuals and repair guides specific to your vehicle for detailed instructions on the diagnostic and repair procedures recommended by the manufacturer.
Issues Prioritization:
- We identify the most urgent or critical issues and begin repairing them as a priority. This can prevent minor problems from becoming more serious in the future.
Repair Root Cause:
- When diagnosing and repairing, aim to identify and resolve the root causes of problems rather than simply treating symptoms. This can prevent problems from recurring in the future.
- Once repairs are completed, our technicians will perform a road test and additional check to ensure the problem has been resolved and that no malfunction warning lights come ON.