Popular questions

Question
Nail in tire. Been driving with it. Slowly leaking. Left to park for now. Is the tire unrepairable to a point?
Hello, thank you for writing in. The tires need to be evaluated a little further before we justify getting a new one put on, or patching it. Take a look at the tread, and make sure it is evenly worn...
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No spark at spark plugs
I will assume that the results of the test were taken from the location between the spark plug boot, and the top of the spark plug. In this case, the spark is not getting to the wire at all, or...
Question
Car starts and then turns off
I would recommend starting with having your vehicle checked for trouble codes with an OBD2 scanner. Once the codes have been pulled by a knowledgable technician, a strategic diagnosis plan can be made. The Check Engine Light code will aid...
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my front passenger side is making a metal grinding type noise do i need bearings replaced or should i get a second opinion
Hello, the hub bearing could be failing. I would not drive the vehicle until it is inspected for the noise. This bearing is connected to your wheel and tire. If you'd like, a certified Your Mechanic Technician can come to...
Question
How do I know if the fuel pump is bad?
Hi, thanks for writing in. You will need to check the fuel pressure on the fuel pressure port on the engine fuel rail. The pump should be producing at least 56 to 62 psi for SFI engine. If pressure is...
Question
Steering lock malfunction and key wont turn in ignition.
Your key could be stuck for several reasons. Since the steering wheel moves, it's not the steering lock. The first thing to attempt, is to use an electrical cleaner or air duster to remove any debris that may be stuck...
Question
Car making noise, but not starting
If the engine doesn't crank but only makes a grinding or clicking noise, my guess is that the starter is bad. This can be verified using a dedicated starting/charging system tester, or by using a digital multimeter. A trained professional,...
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knocking from suspension.. already replaced complete strut units (spring/strut
Hello, and thank you for writing in. Replacing the struts was a good starting point. Now you are going to want to inspect the rest of the steering and suspension components (which are very closely related). Turn the steering wheels...
Question
Why does my Echo rough idles at a red light or stop sign?
Hello, What you are describing is a common sign of a dirty or faulty idle control valve. The idle air control valve is a small valve on the engine's intake system that reads the air intake as it comes into...
Question
Thermostat gauge drops suddenly while driving, the car seems to lose power then regains it but doesn't stall
From the description you have provided, this may be a combination of problems. The loss of power as you accelerate could be a fuel delivery concern, a low fuel pressure situation caused by a faulty fuel pump, a plugged fuel...
Question
2002 Mercedes C230 Kompressor engine won't start
Confirm that the engine immobilizer system (security system) is not activated thus preventing the car from starting. If the immobilizer system is on, you may see a security warning light. If the warning light is on, to temporarily override the...
Question
Why is my car running hot?
Hi there. Your vehicle running hot only when driving could be the thermostat only partially opening. It may be the result of air trapped in the cooling system when the radiator was replaced. The cooling system may need to be...
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It won't shift out of second gear.
It sounds like you may have a failing speed sensor. The transmission speed sensor is a magnetic sensor that provides this information, allowing the transmission to shift smoothly. The sensor counts the internal number of revolutions of the transmission and...
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Failed smog check
Neither of these issues should cause you to fail a smog test. Smog test look at your cars emission output. The radiator might be leaking and need to be repaired but it has nothing to do with your emissions. The...
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What other gaskets will I need to replace the intake manifold gasket? 1997 Ford Mustang V6
Hello - the intake manifold on this engine has an upper and lower section. Several gasket manufacturers offer an intake manifold gasket set, which includes all of the gaskets needed to perform this repair. If you are doing this repair...
Question
Wheel keeps humming, I think it's a wheel bearing
Hi, thanks for writing in. I believe you're on the right track. Wheel bearing failures are common on many GM vehicles particularly their trucks and SUVs. I would recommend having your wheel bearings inspected with a mechanic's stethoscope to determine...
Question
Brake lights staing on.
The brake light switch on these cars are a push pin type. Where the push pin hits the brake pedal lever the manufacturer put a hole and a small rubber bumper to push on the brake light switch. Sometimes this...
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The handle on the exterior of my car has snapped off. If I replace to handle will I need to swap over the lock barrel?
Hello, thank you for writing in. Without knowing the model and year of the vehicle, it is difficult to tell what kind of replacement parts you have as true options. With that said, you are likely going to be able...
Question
Electrical problems with my car. The power windows, mirrors, infotainment, and the driver seat all aren't working.
Hi there. Since all of the items are located in the cabin area of the vehicle, look for a loose or broken ground wire from the cab to the frame or fuse box. There could be a pinched wire in...
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Is it normal for a 127k mileage car to consume 1 qt of oil every 3k miles?
That is excessive oil consumption. But at that rate, it might be something you can live with. Turbocharged engines will tend to use more oil than conventional engines. But there are a few things you want to look out for....
Question
no crank no start
Hello, thank you for writing in. A no-start condition is usually diagnosed starting with the battery. Typically the first thing to do is attempt to jump start the vehicle. If it starts, the the battery may not have been charged....
Question
how important is it to replace wire harness when installing new throtle body ?
Hi there. I've always been a proponent of replacing all electrical harnesses connected to major mechanical components during replacement service. In most cases, issues with a throttle body are misdiagnosed due to electrical malfunctions. It's a minor cost to purchase...
Question
Code P2102
Hi there. A sensor on the accelerator pedal arm sends a voltage signal to the ECM (or related control module), which then commands the throttle body to open or close. Voltage signals sent from the ECM will activate the throttle...
Question
Vehicle makes rattling noise when idling
Based upon the information provided, an inspection of the drive belt and air conditioning system should be performed. The squealing noise indicates your drive belt is under strain. If the belt breaks, you will not be able to drive your...
Question
How do I adjust the electronic range select (ERS) system?
The electronic range select (ERS) system limits the highest gear that your vehicle can be using. When in ERS mode, tap the shift lever right, towards the +, to add an extra gear to the ERS. Tap the lever left,...