Popular questions

Question
What does the Low Tire Pressure Light on the dash mean?
The Low Tire Pressure Light in the dash of your car comes on when the tire pressure monitoring system detects a tire low on air. However, it can also come on for other reasons as well. Here’s what you should...
Question
Ford Ranger idle roughly
These engines were known to get a carbon build up on the intake valves and the excessive carbon buildup will soak up any fuel the injectors spray when it is first started until it gets warmed up. The buildup can...
Question
Chevy camaro wont shift into park
Hi Jim. Thanks for contacting us tonight. in most cases, a problem getting a vehicle into the park gear can be traced back to an issue with the shifter cable, ignition or the shifter mechanism. Sometimes debris inside the shift...
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Battery hooked up backwards
As you may know, when the battery is hooked up backwards, reversing the polarity, will typically cause the alternator to fail. The fusible link is also likely blown. I would suggest performing a visual check in the fuse/relay box with...
Question
2004 Lincoln ls v6 my car runs bad when cold until it hits normal temp. The breaks are stiff during the warm up process
To identify the cause of poor operation like that you are describing, the cylinder firing patterns have to be looked at on a scope. That diagnostic reveals whether the issue is fuel or ignition related and also which cylinders are...
Question
Instrument Cluster
Hello. It sounds like you have either a major computer failure or a failed instrument cluster. I would recommend enlisting the assistance of a qualified professional who has the necessary tools to test your instrument cluster for proper function based...
Question
Shaking
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...
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Clicking sound from the rear end on 1990 Porsche 944
The rubber boot on the CV joint can rupture after high miles and the grease will leak or splatter from the area as the wheel it's connected to turns. Once the joint is dry, you will be able to hear...
Question
often to change transmission fluid
For this model, based on Toyota's normal versus severe conditions maintenance schedule, you should change the ATF fluid, and the ATF filter, every 60,000 miles. If you desire that a certified mechanic from YourMechanic perform that service for you, on...
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2011:C300 in limp mode
The power train warning light or “limp mode” light generally will come on when the computer has detected a fault within the transmission control system. When this happens, the transmission control system puts the vehicle into a "limp mode" which...
Question
How likely would all 4 tires lose 8 pounds of pressure each at the same time when just a week before they were fine?
Tire pressure changes 1 PSI (up or down) for every 10 degree change in ambient temperature so temperature differences would not account for a large 8 PSI drop. The only other possibilities are leakage through the valve core and at...
Question
Want to know if the transfer case clutches from a 2000 Chevy 1/2 ton will work in my 2003 Chevy 1/2 ton.
Hi there. Both vehicles should have an NP 246 transfer case in them. Check the casting number on the transfer cases and make sure that they both say 246 on them. If so, then yes they are interchangeable and you...
Question
What are signs of a cracked block?
Hi Jarod. Thanks for the question today. The engine block is a rather large component, meaning that there are multiple warning signs that it's cracked. The leading symptom is a coolant or oil leak not coming from a line or...
Question
Code P0340
The P0340 problem code references a camshaft position sensor malfunction. The ability to restart the engine suggests it is failing versus has failed. There was an issue with this engine with the cam chain tensioner - which also affects cam...
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power steering fluid
A power steering fluid service should be done every 3-4 years. It was once an overlooked service but like any other fluid service (engine oil, transmission fluid, etc), the more frequently you change it, the more life you will get...
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How to correct locked ignition, steering, gear shift
If you turn the steering wheel left or right with a little force, while turning the ignition, it will sometimes release it. This usually happens when power steering puts pressure on the steering wheel when it's turned and the car...
Question
Trac Off, ABS, and service lights
Hello, when you have a light on for a system it indicates a fault with that system. The ABS and traction control system are link together using the same input information for the computer’s operation. ABS (anti-lock brake system) prevent...
Question
I drove without coolant for about 20 miles and the radiator fan is making a loud noise, how do I fix it?
There could be problems with your water pump, coolant lines, radiator overflow reservoir or the radiator that is causing a serious leak. Driving without coolant for any period of time can cause damage to your radiator or other cooling system...
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Car won't start with new battery after sitting a year
Hello. If the vehicle only starts with the jumper wire method, then it is likely its an issue with the ignition switch itself. It's possible that the switch itself is bad or the key has a become bad. Try starting...
Question
Fuel EVAP line that runs under car is kinked how do I know if it is leaking? Also can I drive it like that if it's not leaking?
Hi there. In most cases, an EVAP leak will create an OBD-II trouble code, which is the best way to detect an EVAP leak. By having a professional mobile mechanic complete a check engine light inspection, they will be able...
Question
Truck wont go in gear 1989 Chevy C1500
Hello - I suspect there is still air in the hydraulic line for the clutch. If you bleed the system depending on gravity to bleed it for you, it just won't bleed properly. Pressure-bleeding it from the bottom-up is sometimes...
Question
Shaking 2011 Toyota RAV4
Hi there - occasional shaking as you describe can be a number of things - a bad CV joint/axle (tend to shake while accelerating of turning), tire or wheel problems (bent, balance issue, tire separating). Worn suspension parts can exaggerate...
Question
Clutch replacement price estimate? 2007 Honda Accord
Hi there - unfortunately clutch replacement is not a service YourMechanic offers at this time. Thanks for thinking of us though!
Question
Steam coming from under my hood with a antifreeze smell
Any time there is a major coolant leak from a broken hose there will be coolant that is sprayed all over the motor. After the coolant is repaired and the system is refilled and cooling system rechecked for any leaks...
Question
How do you use a mechanical key with a smart key system?
You push the Release button on the side of the mechanical key and remove the key from the electronic key. Re-insert it to put it back in place. The grooves on the key allow it to insert in only one...