Popular questions

Question
When I apply the Apply the brake to shift gears the car will die
The brake booster is supplied vacuum from the engine and if it is leaking vacuum when you push the brakes, then the booster may need replacement. I recommend having a mechanic diagnose the vacuum booster for the brakes and also...
Question
Power windows do not work.
Check to see if you are getting power to the white wire to the driver's window switch when the key is on. If not, then check and replace the ignition relay 2 in the engine fuse box. The main circuit...
Question
Start issue
The maintenance reminder light generally refers to the need to change the engine oil and filter. That would not be relevant to the present no start. If the check engine light is on, or even if it is off, there...
Question
Transmission fluid smell
Depending on whether or not any fluid was spilled or if you have a leak somewhere, this may cause the car to smell a bit like transmission fluid. Assuming you did not spill and you do not have any leaks,...
Question
Difficult startup, engine loses power
For a more complete answer I would need a bit more information. Various components of the car can cause a difficult start up and not actually trigger a check engine light. The fuel pump, spark plugs, starter and Crank...
Question
I told no cv joint on rear wheel drive on 95 crown Victoria. True or no?
It's true that you have no CV joints in your Crown Victoria, instead it uses a live rear axle, also called a solid rear axle. You are most likely hearing the sway bar bushings in the front rattling and squeaks...
Question
All my exterior lights work (brake, signal, hazard, reverse, etc.) EXCEPT running tail lights
If you are certain all fuses are good/tight, grounds are good and all bulbs are correct in voltage for the vehicle, I have a suggestion from personal experience with a MK 5 Jetta sitting right outside. Make sure the front...
Question
Sometimes squeals on acceleration but used to be bad on start-ups.
Check the drive belt to the vehicle and see if its cracked or glazed. A cracked or glazed drive belt will squeal when under a load. Also, check the pulleys and see if the bearings are going out. A drive...
Question
intermitant failure to "fire up"
I would suggest check to be sure the Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor is working properly. The symptoms you are describing are very common when this fails. As you may know, this regulates the flow of air into the engine allowing...
Question
Truck runs great until I get around 2,000 rims, then it starts missing and cutting out until I get below 2000 rpms
Hi there. The fuel filter could be plugged up causing the demand for fuel flow to drop making the engine starve for fuel when running at a higher speed. Check the fuel pressure on the fuel rain and run the...
Question
Im not getting any preasure from front right cylinder could this be a blown head gasket 1994 gmc Jimmy
Hi there: It's very possible that reduced pressure from a cylinder is an indication of a blown head gasket. In most cases, this problem is caused by damaged piston rings or a hole in the piston, but a blown head...
Question
Car idling slowly and losing power
Hello. From what you describe it would appear that your vehicle may be experiencing some sort of serious transmission or engine performance issue. If the transmission fluid hasn't been changed in a long time it may be possible that the...
Question
2005 saab 9-5 makes loud noise on the highway at 60-65 mph
Hello, thank you for writing in. The first step is identifying where the noises are coming from. We need to determine if it related to the tires and suspension, if it is an engine problem, or if it is transmission...
Question
My hyundai santa fe 2.0 diesel 2002 bounce bounces around and no the engine has a loss of power.
Hi there. With the limited information that is given about your vehicle, check the engine to see if the air filter is plugged. A plugged air filter will make the engine starve for fuel and air and will cause the...
Question
small oil leak - question on average cost for repair. 2009 VW GTi
Hi - the cost of repair for an oil leak can vary widely depending on why the oil is leaking. For oil collecting on the bottom of the oil pan, it could be the oil pan gasket, the front crank...
Question
Car making noise when I drive
If the noise is constant, it may be the bearings. If the noise is only when braking, the noise may be brake related. Bearings typically make roaring/howling noises, while brakes typically make squeaking/grinding noises. A test drive and visual inspection...
Question
What are the most common reasons my car won't start?
Be sure any engine immobilizer system (security system) is not activated, thus preventing the car from starting. "New" batteries are not necessarily fully charged when you buy them over the counter. Consequently, it has to be confirmed that the battery...
Question
No start
You need to check for battery voltage on the red wire to the coil with the key in the on position and then check the same wire when you go to the crank position. If either one is not as...
Question
I changed my front mail seal and Harmonic balancer.
The front crank shaft damper is on a key way and it should not matter if the engine moved when loosening or tightening the damper harmonic balancer. The camshaft will move in and out a little bit and this is...
Question
Glow plug
Hi there. With newer diesel engines and the advanced timing systems they have, the importance of fully functional glow plugs once the motor is lit is less important. However, as the weather gets colder, starting a diesel engine with the...
Question
The power steering locks up
Hi there. It sounds like there could be a belt, pulley, or accessory problem. One of these items could be causing your steering concern and the smoke. Are there any visible leaks from the power steering pump? Any leaks from...
Question
The check power steering system lights comes on and the steering wheel becomes hard.
Hi, thanks for writing in. Although you don't mention which model Acura you own, the TSX model for 2009 has a new (for Acura) electrically-assisted steering system. This system utilizes an electric motor for power steering assist, with sensors and...
Question
Ignition switch wont turn
The key must pass the vehicles security in order for the vehicle to start. The ignition lock cylinder housing contains the electronic equipment necessary for the vehicle to start. The keys and ignition lock cylinder replacement are a purely mechanical...