Popular questions

Question
Car won't go in gear when hot?
Hi there, thanks for writing in. I'd be happy to help. Your transmission is a computer-controlled transmission which can be affected even when something as simple as a weak battery is the issue. I would first suggest checking the battery...
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Shift lock button releases stuck gear, but re-sticks
Hello. It sounds like you may just have a bad brake switch on the brake pedal. Both the brake lights and the shift lock use this switch. I usually remove the switch and test it with an ohm meter, but...
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Dealer where I purchased the vehicle stated my rotors were "all rotted" at my last service. Quote - $375.00 per axle? High?
Hello. 'Rotted' is an unusual term for brake rotor problems, but here we are. With your mileage, especially if you have lots of stop-and-go driving, brake service may be required. Dealers have a fairly high cost structure (building, test equipment,...
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Crankshaft broken
The crankshaft is a very important component in the motor and is balanced very precisely. If the crankshaft were to lose its balance for some reason, major engine damage would occur. This would also cause all of the main and...
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sway bar bushing replacement and motor mounts
Hi there. In order to supply you with an accurate estimate for theses services, we need you to request a price quote for the engine mount replacement; as we need to collect additional information about your car and location. Simply...
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Air conditioning has slow leak
There is specialized equipment for finding leaks in AC systems. One way is to add a fluorescent dye the the system, run the system, and check for a leak with a black light. There are also electronic tools to detect...
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Mystery lurch
Check the quality of the transmission fluid if there is an inspection dipstick. If the fluid level is low or the fluid is very dark, this may be a sign of a problem. Next, the ignition system must be in...
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My car keeps dying while I'm driving - 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Check the transmission range selector for a loose connection and make sure it is tight on the transmission. The code is coming up for the transmission range selector saying that the transmission is in gear and park at the same...
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Misfiring cylinder
Hi there. There are a couple of different reasons why a single cylinder would be misfiring. A common issue would be a lack of continuity throughout your spark plug coil, wire, and plug. Another problem you may be having is...
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I was driving on the highway and I lost power and the car cut off. The car will not start back up and it has gas in it has coming through the gas line.
Hi there. Check the ignition system and see if the spark plugs are sparking. If the spark plugs are not sparking, then check for power to the ignition coil. If there is no power to the ignition coil, then check...
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Engine "Hiccup"
Claimed by Kevin Gainer
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My head gaskets got replaced and now it won't start it spins over good just won't run. Could the crank sensor have melted ?
Head gasket replacement is a big job that requires disconnecting and removing many parts. Without inspecting the vehicle firsthand, it's impossible to say exactly what when wrong. It could be something as simple as a disconnected sensor. An engine that...
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What should I know about loading cargo and luggage on the roof luggage carrier?
If your car is equipped with a roof luggage carrier, you’ll find that it offers a significant amount of additional cargo space than what’s available in the cargo compartment alone. Of course, there are several things that you need to...
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The door latch mechanism seems to be broken and will not allow the door to open. How do I open the door to replace it?
Hi! You can access the lock mechanism by removing the inner door panel. This should allow you to open the door. This may be difficult to do! If you are looking for some extra help, a certified technician from YourMechanic...
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How do I decline a phone call?
When a paired device receives a phone call through the infotainment system, the sound system will be muted, and you will hear a ring through the sound system. To decline a call, rotate the MENU/SEL knob to Decline, then press...
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Car is overheating and boiling water out. 2003 Hyundai Elantra
Hello - you may very well be correct. Given your symptoms, it sounds like you have a blown headgasket. This can be confirmed by checking for low compression between adjacent cylinders, white steam or smoke from the exhaust (smells sweet),...
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Door not opening
If neither the inner or outer door handle will open the door then it is most likely a faulty latch that should be replaced. This can be a difficult repair, as access to the latch will be tricky since the...
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Changing my radio, and may be the whole dash (center console) 2010 Cadillac SRX
Hello - your English is very good actually. Yes, your plan makes good sense. The radio (or 'infotainment center' as they are now called) is modular, and at least within your make and model, fairly interchangeable. A radio/infotainment cluster from...
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Power steering hose leaking
Hello. The high pressure power steering hose is the most common hose to leak on your vehicle. I have also seen the return line leak at the power steering reservoir from a loose clamp. If the leak cannot be easily...
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Multiple misfire codes and hard shifting
Hello. I would start by doing a compression test. From the codes you are getting to the way that is is running and the sound that you hear it sounds like you have a failed valve seat. When this occurs...
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Engine & turbo stutter at 60mph
If you are having an issue with the engine sputtering at highway speeds, it may be related to your fuel system. I would recommend having your fuel system checked by a qualified professional due to the fact that gasoline is...
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I hear a clicking noise when engine starts
From the information provided on your Nissan Frontier, has lead me to believe that it may be experiencing an undercharged battery or even possibly a bad starter. To be 100% certain however, it may be time to enlist the assistance...
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Car will not start and interior accessories are disabled. 1998 Saturn LS
Hey there, thanks for writing in about your 1998 Saturn LS. This sounds like you have a short somewhere in the electrical system. I would start by testing the power supply to each of the various components or first try...
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Need to know my van's towing capacity
Hi there. With the correct hitch and equipment being used on the vehicle, according to specifications, you can safely tow a maximum of 3600 pounds. If you add any more than this you will surpass what this van's towing capacity,...
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My truck won't stay started
Hi there. It sounds as if you are experiencing an obstruction in the fuel delivery system. A loss in compression after your vehicle has warmed up can also cause this issue. I'd strongly suggest having a mechanic, such as one...