Popular questions

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Acceleration
Hello: Most acceleration issues that are accompanied by a sound are typically an indicator that a vacuum leak exists or that an exhaust leak exists. To know for certain, you'll need to have a professional mechanic complete an engine is...
Question
Electrical issues with the gauges, interior lights, and rear wiper blade.
Hi there. When it comes to multiple systems and the electrical circuits malfunction, there is a power and ground issue. Check the battery cables and clean them with a tooth brush and baking soda with water. This will clean off...
Question
What kind of tranny fluid do I need?
I would suggest consulting your owner's manual to be sure, however you should be able to use Dexron VI. If you need additional help with this, please contact YourMechanic to schedule an appointment to have one of our experts come...
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Oil relief valve issue shortly after oil was changed
I'm curious as to what "weight" of oil they put in. Most manufacturers now warn against using anything heavier than 10W30 for oil pressure relief valve (overpressure on cold start) reasons. While this is not common, overpressure due to a...
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I have a 1997 ford ranger. I was informed by highway patrol last night that none of the lights on the rear of the truck are workin
Hello, thank you for writing in. There are several different lights at the rear of the vehicle. They are run off of different circuits to control them separately and in order to keep them from all going out at once....
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When recently parking, I selected reverse gear on a manual car and It moved backwards and all of a sudden it started to make noise.
Hi there. It sounds like the reverse input gear has ground off and now the high gear which is for direct drive of overdrive is engaged. I recommend seeking out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help...
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Car won’t start
Hi Tyler. Thanks for sending the question tonight. If you've just replaced a battery (like in the last 24 hours) then I would suggest checking the battery cables for corrosion or check your ignition relay. If the battery was replaced...
Question
What conditions determine whether a door can be locked or unlocked?
Locking and unlocking your doors is as simple as using the remote, the electronic key or the mechanical key. However, there are a few things that you should know so you’re not taken by surprise when they happen: You...
Question
Check engine light is flashing and I have next to none acceleration.
When the engine light is flashing, that means that something is not functioning correctly that could damage the catalytic converter. I would recommend having the computer (ECM) checked for any codes to give you a starting place for diagnosing your...
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Car wont move when started
If the shifter is moving freely but the vehicle will not move, there can be a few causes, depending on the vehicle and the transmission type. For example, if it has a manual transmission, the clutch may have failed. If...
Question
Radiator fan not working
Hi there. The engine cooling fan is controlled via a relay by the engine computer. Fuse 57 needs to be checked along with the cooling fan relay as soon as the fan should be initiated. Voltage needs to be checked...
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Why would Oil Pressure Light come on while braking?
Hello. I don't know how often you check your oil level, but I would certainly check it now. Turbo-charged engines consume a bit more oil during an oil change interval than non-turbo engines, and it's possible your oil level is...
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how to take the bottom bolt off the water pump?
The power steering lower bolt should be removed and the power steering swung out of the way. Then, using a 10mm swivel socket you can get the back bottom water pump bolts out without removing the front engine mount bracket....
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Trying to get it started after sitting for five years
My previous comment about timing was in reference to starting the firing order with the correct terminal on the distributor cap. If you have the number one plug wire on the incorrect terminal to start the firing order, this is...
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Manual clutch not giving much resistance
Hello. If the manual clutch does not have very much resistance and you are having trouble shifting into First Gear and Reverse, the clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder need to be replaced. These components work together to allow the...
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Brake light comes on.
Hi, it sounds like the brake light switch needs replacing under the dash. I would have a technician such as one from YourMechanic replace it for you.
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Throttle Position Sensor
An engine not starting may be related to many different possibilities, some of which may be related to a lack of spark and some of which may be related to a fuel delivery problem or a combination of both. For...
Question
Variable valve timing
The protocol depends on the codes that have set, which are quite varied. Problems with these systems on your particular model and year can stem from blocked oil passages to failed solenoids to wiring harness issues, not to mention mechanical...
Question
Tappet noise oud, rough idle 2009 Ford Focus
Hi there - the valve mechanism on your Zetec engine uses solid lifters (or cam followers to be more precise), and need to be adjusted periodically. As you mention, the delayed maintenance may not be helping here as well. I...
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Location of airbag module in chevy 2006 police edition car?
Hi there. Tampering or replacing air bag modules on cars in the United States without a license or certification is not legal. Since our mobile mechanics don't even offer this service, we're not able to offer this advice. I'm sure...
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How do I know when to change my tires?
Mechanics usually check tires with a tread depth gauge that measures in 1/32 of an inch. Depending on the tire it can be manufactured anywhere between 8/32 to 13/32 of an inch of tread. Tires become unsafe and illegal, depending...
Question
Coast Replacing a fuel filter and a fan a fuel pump in 2002 Buick Regal
Hi...both of these services are available. To obtain an exact quote for the fuel pump replacement, please click on "Get a Quote" at YourMechanic's fuel pump replacement service page. Similarly, to get an exact quote for the replacement of your...