Popular questions

Question
If I go through a puddle, even one that is not deep, my engine stalls out. Mechanic told me to avoid puddles.
Hi, thanks for writing in. A lot time when this happens, it is due to a bad belt, or the belt is being soiled by oil and fluid from the car. The belt tensioner also could be weak, allowing the...
Question
why am i loosing power, spits and sputters then is fine.
Hello. It sounds like you may have several different problems with this vehicle. The starting issue sounds like you may have a failure in the fuse box or in the starter relay, most of the time though it is caused...
Question
Engine shakes when fuel is added
Hello! If the rubber bushings and motor mounts are really bad then it could cause a knocking noise. There should also be transmission mounts as well. I suggest to check out the motor mounts and transmission mounts for wear and...
Question
Van starts and then dies
There are several issues that can keep a vehicle from starting, such as mechanical issues like off timing, bent valves, lack of airflow in the intake system, lack of fuel pressure from a failing fuel pump, or possibly a lack...
Question
My car has had trouble starting for the past 3 months. It cranks but it doesn't turn over in the morning.
There are a number of things that may cause this to happen, however based on what you are describing it sounds like you may have an issue related to maintaining the proper fuel pressure both while starting and sitting at...
Question
Loss of reverse on a BMW 74 DI
If you are going to continue to drive it, you are going to need a new transmission, or you either park where you never have to back up. I said that to a customer with a BMW who did that...
Question
Car running hot
Hi there. Many components make up your cooling system. If any of these components are not functioning properly, it will cause your vehicle to overheat. If your vehicle is not leaking any coolant chances are that your radiator fan(s) are...
Question
Car starts and then turns off
Your symptoms are very similar to a vehicle experiencing problems with air metering, or fuel delivery. A clogged fuel filter may sometimes offer enough fuel for idle, but lack the volume to maintain an operating engine. In your case, it...
Question
Clutch stays pressed down
The clutch works as part of a hydraulic system that is sensitive to leaks. Any leak along the lines, or failure of a seal in the clutch master cylinder, share the same symptoms. Have a mechanic confirm your situation and...
Question
What do the various XM Radio messages mean?
Depending on the station and any obstructions blocking your satellite signal, your XM Radio may display any of a number of different messages. Here’s a quick summary: Loading – This means that the station is loading. Off Air –...
Question
Door loose
I will assume that the door is hanging, and does not line-up properly when closed. There are a few situations that can cause the door to hang loose: The hinges holding the door on may have started to fatigue, or...
Question
Car not starting but making sound
The zooming sound is a new sound described for me and only an in-person diagnostic check could narrow the problem down for you. If the car is also not starting, this can be for a host of reasons including a...
Question
Whenever we start the van every now and then, it won't start on the first time. and then it will on the second time.
Hi, thanks for writing in. There are a couple of possibilities. If the problem is lack of cranking the engine over, the problem could be a worn ignition switch, starter solenoid or starter - due to burned contacts in any...
Question
Car won't hold gas
Hello. This is a rare problem and it could be a bit difficult to pinpoint. First, an EVAP system check and a complete fuel system check would need to be done to determine what exactly is causing the gas to...
Question
Smoke entering car from the engine compartment.
The smoke coming from behind the steering wheel is a sign that something is shorting or making poor contact and you may be in danger of a fire starting from continued use or possible air bag going off with out...
Question
Is it work the trouble and cost to repair my 2002 Honda Accord.
The best thing you can do is hire an experienced technician to inspect the vehicle and look for any signs of wear or damage from the use of the vehicle. You should check your maintenance schedule and perform the missed...
Question
Overheating and struggling to start
Hello. If your engine is overheating and you are having trouble starting it then you more than likely have a failing head gasket. When it fails the engine will overheat and it will also allow coolant to enter the combustion...
Question
Coolant leaking from car
Hi, I would check inside the engine bay for residue, mainly around the water pump and on the motor itself. There are seals that can leak slowly over time making it difficult to find the source. You can also check...
Question
Car won't crank
Hello. There are many reasons why a car wont turn over. A bad starter, a bad connection at the battery or starter, low battery voltage, bad starter relay are just a few. Because of the limited amount of information and...
Question
I have a 2006 dodge magnum 6.1l hemi engine,car starts right up and revs fine when put in drive or reverse it turns off!
This is caused by the transmission internal or solenoid issue. The transmission is trying to go into reverse and forward gear at the same time. Have the transmission tested for solenoid or other internal issues with transmissions.
Question
hi i have 2003 toyota corolla s. missing underhood emission label. i need buy CAT but need know it its ULEV, LEV, or TLEV?
In this situation, I would recommend calling your local Toyota dealership to see what information they can give you. It is possible that you can give them your VIN number and they will be able to tell you which type...
Question
Head gasket blown
Hi there. Common signs of a blown head gasket are: overheating, thick white smoke from the tail pipe, milky liquid in the oil cap or radiator cap, or loss of coolant. If you need assistance with an inspection or replacement...
Question
Car squealing when turning at startup
Sounds like you might be having two issues. The high pitch noise you hear is most likely caused by a loose belt. Depending on your engine you can have several belts or just one. The squeal sound comes from the...
Question
Vehicle idling rough once warm
This might be due to a vacuum leak. Vacuum leaks are common in older vehicles because of the age of rubber lines, gaskets, etc. The vacuum leaks alter the air fuel mixture and as the engine tries to adjust it,...