Popular questions

Question
HVAC actuators not working properly
There are quite a few issues reported with the blend door actuator behind the glovebox being problematic. Other possibilities include a faulty BCM (Body Control Module) or damaged HVAC harness. Before having any parts replaced, you may want to enlist...
Question
Transmission slipping when I drive
Hi there. When your model Civic begins to experience this it it is the first sign of transmission failure. The transmission fluid needs to be checked to see if it is at the right level. If it is check the...
Question
My car is only 3 years old. Should I be suspicious that the starter went out?
Hi, thanks for writing in. A starter like any other mechanical and electrical part is subject to failing sometimes for no apparent reason. However, sometimes this is misdiagnosed as well and often times mistaken for something much more simple like...
Question
Steering wheel feels too loose
Steering components do wear over time, but what you're describing sounds excessive. The problem could be play in the steering gear and/or linkage. Your steering wheel connects through the column, to the steering gear, tie rods and finally the steering...
Question
Transmission gears slipping when I’m driving
The transmission on your Santa Fe has over 15 technical service bulletins (TSB) that could be the cause of your transmission issues. The first thing you should do is have YourMechanic scan the transmission computer for recorded codes and diagnose...
Question
Can driving your car in ocean water affect mpg
Hi there: Anytime you drive in salt water, it can cause serious damage to electrical components, suspension components or any seals, gaskets or rubber parts. Even if you wash it off quickly, saltwater can collect on electrical sensors that impact...
Question
Helicopter noise coming from drivers side tire
Hi there. This sounds like it could a serious issue with the potential to be a safety related issue. There's no true way to tell whether driving the car in its current condition is safe or not. However, I would...
Question
Overheating engine and coolant leak steam under hood
This suggests you may have a cooling system problem. This can be caused by a faulty thermostat, a bad cooling fan relay, a failing water pump, a clogged radiator, or potentially even a blown head gasket. If you need help...
Question
Car stopped starting one day. Cranks and keeps cranking. just won't fully start. Hooked up a code reader and nothing came back.
Hi there. I used the acronym FAST for my no start concerns; this is for the basics. I check for Fuel, Air, Spark, and Timing. Make sure the air filter is not clogged and that the there are no codes...
Question
smoke
Hi there: It's very difficult to tell you for sure what might be wrong with your vehicle, as we'd need to be there to complete a car is smoking from exhaust inspection. However, when it's cold, sometimes you might see...
Question
Key is stuck in the ignition
Hi, one thing you can do is take your steering wheel grasp it and turn it slightly in both directions while trying to turn the key while you are holding pressure on the wheel. This will help make sure that...
Question
New refrigerant only temporarily fixes air conditioning
Based upon your description, it appears you have a refrigerant leak. If you have inserted refrigerant that has 'UV Dye' included, detecting the leak is helpful with a 'UV light'. There are four major components linked together with hoses and...
Question
Rough idle and engine stalls out.
A rough idle may be caused by many different things such as low fuel pressure, low voltage to the fuel injectors, dirty fuel injectors, a vacuum leak, a faulty Oxygen sensor or a dirty or failing idle air control valve....
Question
Rear window not staying up
It sounds like the window regulator is bad. The regulator is what raises and lowers the window when the motor is commanded. The cables in the regulator wear out over time and break, causing the window to not stay up....
Question
I have a key tag code. I locked my key in my scooter. It's a Yamaha Zuma. What do you suggest?
Hi there. You can remove the seat by removing the mounting bolts to the seat on the front hinge. Then gently pry up on the seat. Be careful not to tear the seat material. Then you can get your keys...
Question
Why does my 1998 Honda Accord have trouble idling and it is using a lot of gas
Hi there. If you are using an excessive amount of gas an the engine will not idle properly then you may have a rich condition going on. Most of the time this is caused by either a fuel injector that...
Question
How do I detach the rear seat belt comfort guide?
The rear seat belt comfort guide is easy to detach. All you need to do is pinch the seat belt, and slide it out of the guide. Then return the guide to the storage compartment on the side of the...
Question
My car keeps stalling. What causes this?
This may be related to a dirty or failing idle air control valve. The idle air control valve reads the air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the engine at low speeds and at...
Question
Getting error code P0304
Since you are getting a misfire code on the #4 cylinder that will cause the computer to shut off these other systems. The misfire needs to be fixed first. Most of the time when this comes up it is caused...
Question
does a2004 kia optima lx have anti brakes
Hi there: The 2004 KIA Optima LX V6 offers optional 4-wheel ABS systems. It really depends on whether or not the option you have came with this optional upgrade. To determine this, you should call a local KIA dealership and...
Question
Car takes time to start
In many cases, a failing sensor can cause an extended cranking time or multiple attempts to get the vehicle started. The problem may be difficult to track down. Have an experienced automotive technician, such as one from YourMechanic, inspect the...
Question
Exhaust manifold bright red when car is on
Hi there. An exhaust manifold that reaches high temperatures is a sign of a blockage in your exhaust system. This blockage stops excess emissions to be burned off. The excess fuel and carbon will build up causing your manifold to...