Popular questions

Question
What does the Apply Brake Before Cruise message mean?
The Apply Brake Before Cruise message can appear on your driver information center (DIC) when you are trying to use the cruise control system. When this alert is displayed on the DIC, press the brake pedal, and then try to...
Question
I just put a new alternator and battery and it still comes on what to do please help
Hello, thank you for writing in. The first step is to make sure all battery cable and alternator connections, are clean, dry, and tight. The second test is to have the vehicle scanned for diagnostic codes, in case there is...
Question
How to get car out of limp mode
You will need to have the computer scanned to see what caused it to go into limp mode first and then repair the problem and then it will fix the limp mode issue. Your computer can go into limp mode...
Question
Adjusting the camshaft and crankshaft for the timing chain
I believe the "official" procedure for these M30 engines is to: Leave the tensioner until last Install the chain with the crank and cam sprockets on TDC, and the chain tight on the driver side of the chain Use...
Question
Why is my car loud at idle and when accelerating
Generally loud "noise", especially on acceleration, is due to exhaust system leaks or internal muffler (e.g., baffle) failures. The ticking noise is more likely coming from the valve train and not the EGR valve. The OBD-II diagnostic code that "refers"...
Question
Scrubbadub told me I have an oil leak. I placed cardboard under car and there are several spots. I cant tell if its oil
You will need to have the engine checked to see if the engine has an oil leak or the last oil change left over oil residue from it is getting on exhaust. I recommend having the leaks checked to see...
Question
Low RPM when on gear causes Vibration when at stopped.
Hi There, It sounds like you may have a dirty or failing idle air control valve. The idle air control valve monitors the air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the engine at low...
Question
What happens if the shift lever doesn’t move?
Without an operational shift lever (gearshift), you’re not going to be driving very far. There are a couple of reasons that the shift lever might not move, so try this: Make sure you have your foot firmly on the brake...
Question
P0328 code - 2008 Hyundai Accent
Hello. P0328 is the code for a knock sensor. If the knock sensor fails, or there is an issue with the wiring, the code may be set off. You also mention that the Check Engine Light was not on. If...
Question
Car lost all power after downshifting to go uphill
Hello! Although the Check Engine Light has been on before a new issue may have occurred, I would suggest hooking a scan tool up to the vehicle and retrieving the OBD2 codes. The problem you're having should almost certainly set...
Question
The car doesn't shift into first gear while it works fine in reverse
The problem could be that the internal transmission pump is weak, or the transmission clutch seals are leaking. It sounds like the transmission will need an overhaul. I recommend having a transmission mechanic test the pressures and diagnose the...
Question
No Codes, however, the car is jerking when WOT
Hello and thank you for contacting Your Mechanic. With the symptom of the engine being jerky and the engine computer system is not picking up anything, then you have a problem with the engine mounts. If the engine mounts are...
Question
Loud ticking/soft knocking in engine is worse after tune up
The inconsistent idle is probably due to an engine management/sensor issue which would include the IAC valve but quite a few other components are possible causes, too. Mechanical engine noises stem from wear and damage. You might get some insight...
Question
New battery and recently got a alternator couple months ago car still dies
The alternator is not recharging the battery after you start the vehicle. Since you replaced it recently I would recommend having it checked to see if it has stopped charging or you have a wiring problem from the alternator to...
Question
Dsc malfunction, engine service soon, and engine malfunction reduced power.
The most common cause for the DSC coming on is a speed sensor at one of the wheels not working properly. The Check Engine Light comes on anytime a critical system is having a problem. The reduced speed is due...
Question
Ram 2012 5.7 HEMI, PCM replacement
Hi Alfred. Thanks for contacting us today. In mechanical repairs, there is a huge difference between the effectiveness of whether something can be done - vs. whether it should be done. Generally speaking, an aftermarket PCM CAN be installed -...
Question
My car doesn't want to go up hills. It has slow acceleration, and feels like it's not kicking into the next gear when I drive it.
Hi There, What you are describing sounds like you may have a clogged catalytic converter. The catalytic converter converts toxic exhaust gases into less harmful pollutants that are suitable to be expelled into the atmosphere. When the catalytic converter is...
Question
My 2004 Honda Civic is making too much noise. Why and how would I address the issue?
Hi there. Assuming the noise is a high-pitched squeal when the A/C is turned on, it may be that the new belt has stretched and needs to be readjusted. The A/C compressor may also be failing, causing the belt to...
Question
Car sputtered and stalled after sitting
After that amount of time, the first thing I would check is the fuel quality. Water could have condensed in the tank. The fuel itself could have separated. Most fuel now has 10% ethanol. Gas and ethanal separate over time....
Question
where is the door lock relay for 2013 toyota corolla located
The door lock relay function is built in to a multi-function "integration relay". The integration relay is in the dash to the left of the steering wheel. Note that if you are working in the area of the dash/steering column,...
Question
Engine swap - 2011 Chevrolet Camaro
In the olden days, you could "adapt" any engine to any car frame, assuming you were mindful of any necessary changes to the suspension to safely carry a possibly heavier engine. The reason you can't do the interchange you are...
Question
Will using the brake pedal to reset the SBC counter work?
Good day Chibuikem, Thank you for contacting us today. We typically stick to the OEM repair tips and service ideas. According to MB, the right way to resolve this problem is through computer reset procedures - using an OBD-II diagnostic...
Question
Need instructions to set timing on windshield wipers
The process can be very difficult and there is some steps that require turning on the wiper to intermittent and then measuring the alignment. You can search up "wiper transmission installation" for your specific vehicle and it should come up...
Question
Cannot start car daily with unless using starter fluid
Working with starting fluid can be pretty dangerous. One backfire and you can lose your eyebrows in a flash...or worse. That said: a car that is hard to start when cold could just have an air leak. Look for any...