Popular questions

Question
Why is my car not moving when in drive
This may be likely due to low transmission fluid or potentially a faulty transmission control module. The transmission control module helps regulate fuel efficiency and power while storing information about the transmission system in its memory. A faulty transmission control...
Question
Transfer case leak
Hi. The transfer case leak is a very common issue with these vehicles, especially at high mileage. The problem occurs when the pump for the transfer case begins rubbing against the side of the case. Over time, it will drill...
Question
Fan not working
The most common problem is the cooling fan switch located on the pipe that connects the upper radiator hose to the radiator in the engine compartment. Another issue is that there may not be sufficient coolant in the radiator. I...
Question
On A 2008 Mini Cooper should the thermostat be changed with the water pump at the same time?
Hello there. Sometimes a pretty serious impact as you've described above can create rubber hoses or hose fittings to crack or become separated; even if they are in different location than the vehicle impact. Typically it is customary for the...
Question
What’s the range on the Intelligent Key?
Your Intelligent Key allows you to enter and exit the car, automatically unlock doors, get into the trunk and more. However, it has a limited range. In order to use the key, you need to be standing about two and...
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Driving through water makes my truck bog down.
Hello, and thank you for writing in. When looking under the vehicle you will see several electrical connections that may be to blame. The oxygen sensors, starter connections, and transmission sensors that can all cause the computers to struggle in...
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When I turn key on no lights on dash go on in the car. The car won't start or make any noise. What can it be?
Your vehicle could have a battery that has lost it's charge or the battery cables are corroded or loose. Check the battery with a digital volt meter and see what the voltage is. If the voltage is below 11.5 volts,...
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Testing the frequency of my MAP Sensor, it appears to adjust to pressure, but is not in range.
If you are getting a reading of 89HZ out of the MAP sensor with the key on then this is an indication that you are above 15,000 feet in elevation. This would cause the computer to run your vehicle with...
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Why is my ABS light on-on the dash?
The ABS system turns on the light when it sees a fault in one of its sensors or output components. In order to properly diagnose the system, you will need to have the ABS system scanned to see if there...
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Oil pressure light and grinding noise on startup
Hi there. Assuming, the engine is not turning over. The grinding noise you hear may be the starter drive gear failing. The oil light popped up on the dash with the engine not running would be considered normal. If...
Question
vibrate
Hello, thank you for writing in. Typically the brakes will vibrate during and after a stop if there is an issue with the brake pads, rotors, or the caliper guide pins. Start by checking the guide pins, as they are...
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Dash board lights are all on
Hello and thank you for contacting YourMechanic. For all of the indicators that are lit up on your dash could be that the vehicle does need all the problems fixed or it could just be needing a reset. To reset...
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Water in the tail light which rusted sockets
The warning lights for the bulbs are very sensitive, as they look for the proper resistance in the tail light and brake light bulbs. When water gets into the tail light housing like this, it generally means the tail light...
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Total Engine Replacement
If only the timing belt is broken, and there is no valve train or piston damage (due to the belt break for instance), or other engine damage, it will be more cost effective to repair the engine and even do...
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Rear wiper arm
Once you get the lock nut off you may need to use a small puller to get the small metal piece off of the shaft. This was part of the old arm that broke. You should be able to slide...
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How do you use the glove box?
The glove box is an ideal place to store things like your owner’s manual, insurance papers and other important documents or small items. It’s also easy to use. Here’s how: Make sure the glove box is unlocked. Pull the...
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Brake Too Low of a force and pedal goes to the floor easy.
Hi there. Check the ABS (anti lock brakes) control module for any air in it. Sometimes when bleeding the brakes, the air will travel to locations within the brake system and get trapped. The module needs bleed with the brake...
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Trying to located my knock sensor on my Kia 06 optima
Your vehicle is equipped with two knock sensors, one for each "bank" of cylinders. The sensors are screwed into the block in the "V" area (valley) of the block. Each sensor has a three terminal wire harness. Knock sensor output...
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How do I use the mist feature?
The mist feature activates the windshield wipers for one cycle, so that you can wipe away any mist or fog that has accrued on your windshield. To use the mist feature, do the following. Find the multifunction lever on...
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Why does my truck shut off when im at the stop light ?
There are a few common reasons for a vehicle to stall. The most common causes are a clogged fuel filter, a failing fuel pump, vacuum leaks, or failing sensors. Some diagnostic testing will be necessary to determine where the problem...
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Steering wheel position sensor is bad . Is it safe to use four wheel.drive? 2012 Chevy Silverado
Hi there - yes, your truck is safe to drive. However, the failure of the steering wheel position sensor will eliminate suspension stability control and traction control functions, so be more cautious in slippery conditions. I would recommend replacement of...
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How do I read the tachometer?
The tachometer is located on your instrument panel, and tells you how fast your engine is moving, in terms of revolutions per minute (RPM). The tachometer is a semicircle, with a hand that points to a number. This number, times...
Question
Why does the gas pump cutoff before the tank is even 1/2 full?
Hi there: When you have a hard time filling the fuel tank or the tank is frequently spilling like you've indicated, it's commonly caused by a component that comprises the EVAP system; such as the EVAP vent solenoid. In most...