Popular questions

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Clicking and popping noise
This is a common sign of a failing CV joint. A CV (Constant Velocity) joint is a shaft that connects the transmission to the wheels, essentially transferring the power from the drive train directly to the wheels. The CV joint...
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Car tries to turnover but won't start
Hi there. If your car is not turning over, despite a new battery and a jump, then it is probably not a battery problem. It may be possible that there may be a problem with the vehicle's starter, or starting...
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Code P1320
The ignition system fault generally points to ignition coil concerns. They are a common failure item and all must be replaced at the same time along with the spark plugs. In the process, the valve cover gaskets can be inspected...
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How does the Smart Lock system work?
Your car is equipped with a Smart Lock system designed to help reduce the chance that you’ll lock your keys in the car. Here’s how it works: When a front door is opened and the door lock switch used...
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I was driving the car a few minutes ago the vsa and abs light came on in the dash i turnt the car off to reset it but now it start
Hello, thank you for writing in. The vehicle goes into a safety mode when certain components do not pass the system tests that are run when the car is started. Since the codes were set the last time the vehicle...
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Truck runs rough with hesitation.
There are many issues that could cause your truck to run rough. If the check engine light is on (which it most likely is) retrieving the diagnostic trouble codes will provide a place to start diagnosis. A certified technician, such...
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Do I need to replace the lower O2 sensor or upper O2 sensor?
As you may know there are two O2 sensors in your vehicle, one that measures exhaust gases prior to entering the catalytic converter and one that measures the gases as they exit the converter. The purpose of the lower sensor...
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How long do I keep repairing a nineteen year old car?
This is the most common question a mechanic will get. At 19 years and 175,000 miles, there is really no way to predict what may go wrong next. Burning one quart of oil every 500 miles is not uncommon for...
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I have a new battery but my car won't start
The solution will depend on the symptom you are observing as you try to start the car. I recommend a no-start diagnostic which will identify the root cause. There are a lot of possibilities but if the engine does turn...
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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...
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Radiator fan is not turning on
Once the relay and fuse have been checked and are working, the next thing to check is the controller for the fans that determines which fans operate and at what speed. There are several inputs to this controller: coolant temperature,...
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Growling noise in front wheels and steering wheel Mercury Sable
Hello, thanks for writing in. I am happy to help you with the unusual noise issue you are experiencing with your 2003 Mercury. If the noise is NOT occurring during turns when the car is cold, but rather only after...
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Engine whirls when it is started. The engine makes a audible but not loud WHIRRING (not squealing) sound when foot is on the gas.
There could be a hole in the intake air cleaner hoses or a drive belt that is loose causing the whirling sound. Try removing the drive belt and driving the vehicle for a short time. The battery light will come...
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Transmission mount cracked
The transmission mount would need to be replaced, and all the other mounts checked for cracks as well. It is normal for the mounts to crack or break over time from wear and tear. I recommend that you have a...
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Oil pressure
The first step is to check that your engine has the correct oil level. If the vehicle has enough oil, the problem is probably with the engine. A worn oil pump, restricted oil passages, or worn engine bearings will cause...
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Temp gauge fluating between halfway and hot but runs at halfway mark on freeway but rises to hot at lights
Hi there. The temperature gauge fluctuating between halfway and hot, at stops, is most likely the radiator cooling fan(s) is inoperative. This could be caused by a blown fan fuse, a faulty cooling fan relay, a faulty cooling fan switch,...
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Interchangeable Speedometer?
Hello. The two take different part numbers and if the numbers are different then most likely they are not interchangeable. If you need help installing a new speedometer your best bet may be to consult a local dealer.
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Engine surges and will not review over 2500 rpms
Hi there. This may be a sign of a failing mass air flow sensor. The mass air flow sensor is a unit in the intake system that monitors air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected...
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Check Tire Pressure Light
Hello. The first thing I would do is make sure that the tire in question is inflated to proper pressure. If the pressure is low, even by a few pounds, it may set off the tire pressure light. If the...
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The endurance of a hybrid when the batteries wear out
It depends on the design, but a lot of them are running a Toyota's design. The Fords have Toyota's parts in them, and a lot of GMs run Toyota's design. Generally, those batteries last anywhere from 7 to 10 years,...
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i smell gas under the gas tank in my car
Hi, and thanks for contacting YourMechanic. You may want to inspect the lines around your gas tank. They may be leaking or corroded causing the gas smell in your car. We do not recommend that you drive your vehicle if...
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Clutch won't engage 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart
Hello - your clutch is operated by a hydraulic master cylinder/slave cylinder arrangement. If the failure was sudden, as you describe, it's likely a hydraulic fluid (rubber) hose that failed, but that should be confirmed before parts are ordered up....
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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...
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My car's engine runs rough at idle - 2001 Chrysler Voyager
Hi there. From what you've described/shown, it seems that the mechanic put the timing belt back on one tooth off. If all of a sudden the engine is not running correctly and the vacuum has dropped, then a valve is...
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Take key out car jeeps running sometimes. Then as oil and battery light want go off unless u take it slowly out
It seems as if your ignition switch is malfunctioning. Your ignition switch is the part that you stick your key into. This part is responsible for controlling different circuits based on the position of the key. It seems like the...