Q: I'm car shopping

Hi. An illuminated dashboard charging light is almost a sure sign that the alternator needs to be replaced. If the light is not on and you suspect a problem with the alternator, there are a few ways to test it....

It sounds like you may have two different problems. The first is a bad or leaking brake booster (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-power-brake-booster) or another brake problem causing you to push the brakes harder than normal. The second problem is a transmission shifting issue....

Hello. The issues you describe are relatively minor and likely will not require extensive repairs. A gas cap that does not lock is probably bad and will likely need to be replaced. A replacement cap can be sourced easily and...

Assuming the ECM is still working enough to report problems, getting any problem codes out of the system with a code reader is your best clue at this point - whether the Check Engine Light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) is illuminated or not....

The mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement) is located just near the intake or throttle body and connected to the air filter. It should have a wire connector plugged into it that comes from the ECU.

If the car is cranking and attempting to start, then your issue is with the fuel, air, or spark. You will want to start by spraying starter fluid in the air intake and see if it starts, or at least...

Hi there. A ticking noise on the front of an engine that comes and goes could be the drive belt tensioner being worn, pulleys out of alignment causing the components to fail making the noise, or the timing belt tensioner...

Hi there. You may want to have the mechanic read this article (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-unlock-a-steering-wheel-by-spencer-clayton) on some possible ways to unlock the steering wheel. In most cases, the issue is caused by a malfunction within the ignition lock cylinder (where the key...

Hello, thank you for writing in. There are several things you will need to look at or have inspected. First, we need to look at the transmission itself, where the linkage from your shifter connects and switches gears on the...