Popular questions

Question
Transmission or something else?
This is often a sign of low transmission fluid or a faulty transmission control solenoid. As you know, automatic transmissions use pressurized hydraulic fluid to change gears. Every time a gear change is required, the car's computer activates a transmission...
Question
Car cut off on the highway and never started back up.
Hello there, many faults will cause your 2004 Chevrolet Impala to die while running and not restart. The P0443 code is for the Evaporative Emission Control System Purge Control Valve Circuit and though this will need to be addressed will...
Question
Brakes gradually tighten on all four wheels while driving and not applying the brake pedal
Hi there. Sounds like the vacuum check valve on the brake booster is stuck. I recommend replacing the vacuum check valve and the brakes will work normally. If you need further assistance with your brakes sticking, then seek out a...
Question
Is my ECM malfunctioning?
Unfortunately, without additional detail as to the codes showing up, there is no way to diagnose what the issues may be. The alternator may be functioning intermittently without having a dramatic impact on the charging system for example. I would...
Question
loud, vibrating noise coming from underneath.
Hi there. Sounds like the exhaust heat shields are loose on the exhaust system and rattling underneath the vehicle. Go under the vehicle and check to see which shield is vibrating and tighten them up. If the heat shield is...
Question
Will not accelarate over 20mph and has a P0430 code
Hello and thank you for contacting Your Mechanic. The code P0430 means that the catalyst system efficiency is below threshold on bank 2. This is in relation to the catalytic converter not functioning correctly, but this code will not make...
Question
Radiator fan running max frequently
The fan circuit has a relay, switch contacts, and a temperature sensor. There may be other circuit components as well. If the fan is coming on when it is not supposed to, there is a fault in one or more...
Question
car wobbles at complete stop.. engine shuts off when i accelerate from the stop
It sounds like you may have a severe misfire. It may be caused by many things including ignition system components, fuel system components, or even failing sensors on the motor. I suggest that you have a certified technician, like one...
Question
I hooked jumper cables up backwards now my truck won't fire off without spraying starter fluid
Determine if the fuel pump is actually running. The fuel pump should run momentarily at key on to pressurize the system. If it isn't running, you have an electrical problem. If the pump runs momentarily as is required at key...
Question
Car pulls to the right at different speeds
Thanks for writing in about your 2012 BMW 535xi. There are several potential causes for the car to pull in one direction. The pull you're feeling may just be due to the crown of the road. Other potential causes include...
Question
estimate on axle replacement
The rubber boots covering CV axle outer joints can tear and the grease can then leak out and eventually the joint wears excessively and fails. If the tear in the boot is detected early enough the joint can be saved;...
Question
Check Engine Light reveals an incorrect flow on the secondary air injection system
Hello. There are a lot of things that can go wrong with the secondary air injection system on this vehicle. It can be anything from a bad pump to a solenoid. A failing oxygen sensor can also throw off the...
Question
How do I know if the motor is getting power? 2012 Ford Fiesta
Hi there - since it sounds like you have a voltmeter and know what you're doing with it, I am trusting that you have checked the fuses for the windshield wipers, and have made sure the switch was in the...
Question
Could my problem be the key? 2009 Honda Civic
Hi there - this sounds like the security system needs a simple reset, similar to what's needed if you replace the battery. Try this: lock the car using the ignition key in the driver door. Let it sit for 5...
Question
Skoda/VW Intermittent power loss and RPM shooting high - Just after Car Servicing
Sound like your clutch has gone from being weak to being bad. It doesn't take much to finish a clutch off once it starts slipping. When a clutch slips, it makes heat, which further deteriorates the lining. A skillful driver...
Question
1995 honda civic dx when starting in first the car jerks back and forth and sounds like its reving high then low then goes fine
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...
Question
I drove the car fast, and then the Service Advance Trac came on. Then I drove the car slow for about 10 min and the message disappeared.
Hi there. The Advance Trac may have came on for a dirty wheel speed sensor. You could have driven through a puddle or on a bumpy road that caused debris to fall onto the sensor causing it to be tripped...
Question
Car sputtering and stalling
A clogged fuel filter is a likely cause for your concern, but I would take a look back on your past maintenance as well. A weak ignition system or miscalculated air metering due to a faulty sensor or valve can...
Question
hard to shift into gear
Hi there. From the description you have provided, your clutch felt like it wasn't engaging/disengaging, the pedal feels a little spongy, could be the beginning stages of component failure. There should be no reason to bench bleed the clutch master...
Question
Oil pump and oil sending housing unit
Hi there, thanks for writing in. The oil pressure gauge monitors the oil pressure in one of the main oil ways near to the pump and filter. There is a hole tapped into the engine block with a sensor (for...