Popular questions

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Diesel poured into a gasoline car
At least you didn't put gasoline into the diesel car. If you did and started the engine, the engine would blow up. Diesel fuel is a lower grade fuel so your engine is probably going to ping. I'd advise draining...
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Timing issues? Weird noise when accelerating.
Hi there. Although it's true that faulty or incorrect ignition timing will impact how smooth an engine runs, other issues like mass air flow sensors, O2 sensors and crankshaft position sensors can also cause similar symptoms. The best way to...
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How do I use the luggage cover?
Your car may be equipped with a luggage cover (it’s optional equipment). If it is, then you have an important tool for protecting items in the back from exposure to heat, light and even prying eyes. Here’s how to use...
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bad tie rod end
When you say a bad tie rod end, this means that it is loose. This means that it may come off and you would loose steering control. If it is bad enough for you to ask for advice, then you...
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Vibration and whirring sound from car
I think what you may be feeling is a dry spot in one of your wheel bearings. This could produce the sound you are hearing and is also connected to your steering system. Therefore, the vibration could transfer through suspension...
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Trouble starting car when cold
The starting issues scream timing. The typical causes that set these codes are the cam and crank position sensors. The only option you have not tried to my knowledge is the camshaft position sensor. I would start there. With all...
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Master Cylinder failure, for a second time. Why? 2011 Nissan Altima
Hi there - I believe your master cylinder failure is being misdiagnosed. I believe the problem is with the brake booster - one of the control valves (vacuum?) to be specific. If this valve malfunctions, it could allow much more...
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Which service do I need to book?
I would recommend having a headlight or tail light pigtail connector replacement appointment scheduled in order to get this part replaced.
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What would cause my vehicle to misfire in all 4 cylinders and throw two codes for air/fuel ratio heater circuit malfunctions?
One of the codes (P0115) refers to the coolant temperature switch circuit. If the circuit has a fault, you may be getting a false indication of the actual, and perhaps too high, engine operating temperature. The cooling system is pressurized...
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Pt cruiser dieing when I remove my foot from the accelerated.
It seems as if the timing belt replacement may have an effect on the engine's ability to run properly. If black smoke is being emitted from the exhaust, this is another indication that the engine could be out of time....
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Engine oil leak
Hello! There are several seals that are likely leaking on a vehicle of that particular age, such as the valve cover gasket, tube seals, distributor seal, crank seal, or camshaft seal. The leaking of one seal will commonly drain down...
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A/C control messed up.
The system is controlled electronically and consequently the controller is a possibility. But, to condemn the controller, there is a long sequence of diagnostic steps (from the Factory Service Manual) that have to be performed. Typically, in diagnostics of this...
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Passenger side rear mirror and gas cap
Hello, thanks for writing in. I would recommend buying a replacement gas cap from factory Ford as these are typically engineered much better than many of the aftermarket companies. Regarding your Check Engine Light, you should have this checked at...
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My car runs and shifts gears but will not move what can be problem 1995 Pontiac Grand Am
Hello - check for problem codes, whether the Check Engine light is on or not. Most auto parts stores will do this for free on a "time-available" basis. It is possible a component of the shift linkage in the steering...
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Burning plastic-like smell when braked for more than 10-20 seconds
If the odor is coming from your car (as opposed to perhaps surrounding cars which can happen) and you are only detecting the odor on application of the brakes, a possibility is the brake caliper is failing to retract and...
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Car makes a loud sound every time I start my car, at idle, and when driving at low speeds
Hello. The first thing to check would be your fluid levels. I'm not sure what type of noise you have, but ticking noises at idle can be linked to a low oil level. If there is a vacuum leak, the...
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I have a 1996 chevy k1500 and I just put a new motor in it and it will start and run and idle amazing but has no power in drive
Check to see if ignition timing is advancing per the specifications in the factory service manual as you rev the engine. Measure fuel pump pressure. Check throttle position sensor, oxygen sensors, vacuum leaks, ignition system malfunctions, bad valve timing if...
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Stalling while driving
Sounds like a bad ground connection between the engine/alternator and the chassis. Have a professional mechanic check/clean these connections, and check for other issues like a loose wire in the power distribution circuitry. The car has a fair amount of...
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Transmission & brake problems
Hi there. From the description you have provided, leads to advising you to find another repair facility. All the work you have had done and the problems your vehicle has, should be covered by the repair shops warranty. The smoking...
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Chemical odor in the car - 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK350
Hot engine coolant, possibly leaking in the passenger compartment via the heater core, or a heater control valve, may be the source of this unpleasant smell. It doesn't take much of a leak (a few drops will do) to create...
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the car is loud when I test drived it. When I accelerate it almost choked but overall runs fine, may just be muffler?
Hello. It could be possible that the symptoms the vehicle is showing are due to an exhaust leak. An exhaust leak will usually cause increased exhaust noise, and if large enough or if the engine load is heavy enough, can...
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Opinion on certain oil additives
You should leave the manifold alone. A lot of times they crack so just leave that alone. Some of the additives do actually work to some extant. I know that molybdenum disulfide actually does work. It's a very good lubricant....
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Car shuts of only in drive, at a red light.
This may be a sign of a faulty MAP sensor as the vehicle responds adversely to a load put on the motor (i.e. putting it in gear, making turns (which makes use of the power steering pressure switch) turning on...