Popular questions

Question
When I start my car up its a rattleing sound was thinking catalytic
Hello, the catalytic convertor can make that type of noise. Inside the convertor is a honey comb shaped element that the exhaust gases pass through. Part of that element can fracture and become loose within the shell of the convertor,...
Question
What do you recommend for transmission fluid and engine oil for a 2010 Lincoln Town Car?
Hello. Ford or Motorcraft brand would be the OEM fluid brand that your vehicle came equipped with from the factory. However, any brand of oil and transmission fluid will work fine as long as it meets the API certification rating,...
Question
Won't start - P0410 and P1441 codes are on
Although it's very difficult to diagnose a problem like this without a complete inspection and downloading all error codes, at first glance, the P1441 EVAP issue may be the reason why you're engine isn't starting. When the EVAP solenoid...
Question
Engine oil leak
Hello! There are several seals that are likely leaking on a vehicle of that particular age, such as the valve cover gasket, tube seals, distributor seal, crank seal, or camshaft seal. The leaking of one seal will commonly drain down...
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Need an oil change
BMW high performance synthetic 5w40 or 5w30 or equal weight synthetic oil will be best for your car. A certified mobile mechanic from YourMechanic can do an oil change at your home or office.
Question
I have a broken axle seal not the boot, but the seal on the transmission
Hi there. The issue you're describing is a common problem with many of Toyota's Prius Hybrids. In fact, several 2010 - 2013 models have factory recalls on some transmission seals. When the seal is leaking fluid, it can cause a...
Question
Horn no longer works
I would recommend first checking fuse #23 in the fuse box which is the fuse for the horn. If this does not solve your problem, I would then suggest testing the horn switch in the pad in the steering wheel....
Question
Rims and tire
A great resource to try is tirerack.com. They have a great tire/wheel selection with an easy to use website that will provide the answers you are looking for. You can also try searching for some automotive enthusiast forums specific to...
Question
Van overheats
Hello. Yes there are two key things that I recommend you or your technician check. Check the hoses, radiator, and engine block for clogging. A clog in those components will restrict the coolant system from being able to circulate. Also,...
Question
Odometer reading is about 550,000 miles off.
Hey there. This is a problem with the Body Control Module (which keeps a copy of actual mileage) not re-updating the instrument cluster appropriately after a power outage. Contact your Saturn dealer service center for "Subject: 2000 - 2002 Saturn...
Question
Transfer case making grinding noise
Hello. A grinding sound from the transfer case on this truck is an indication of an internal chain failure. This happens often on this vehicle. I will typically drain the fluid from the transfer case and see if there is...
Question
engine fan noise
The engine should always operate in the "normal" range as shown on your temperature gauge. If the temperature is too high, shut down the engine as overheating can have disastrous consequences (costly repairs). If too low, that is not an...
Question
Vibration on startup - 2013 Ford Focus
Hi there. From the description you have given, a tune-up may be in order. Short trip driving is harder on the engine, than long trip driving. Based on the low mileage, it is not due for the tune-up according to...
Question
sputtering, jumping loss of power
The first thing to check for in any drivability problem is air leaks. Any air that gets into the engine without being measured will lean out the system and cause problems. Look at all the rubber hoses and boots under...
Question
My truck was running perfectly yesterday, but this morning it won't start.
When you attempted to start the vehicle this morning, did the starter attempt to crank the engine? If not, the issue is likely the starter. Although they can display signs of wearing out, they can also stop working suddenly. If...
Question
I'm being told my rear dif is toast. How does this happen? Is it due to lack of rear dif oil changes or do they just wear out? 2009 VW Tiguan
Hello - your Tiguan is equipped with a Haldex torque-sensing system which directs power thru the differential to the axle (left/right) which has the best traction. Think of the differential as the reduction gears and axle(s) drive, and the Haldex...
Question
Car will not start because of electric problem
The theft deterrent system on your vehicle has a module that needs to see a key that belongs to the vehicle to turn on the ignition so your vehicle can start. While looking at the theft light on the dash...
Question
I have a 1996 chevy k1500 and I just put a new motor in it and it will start and run and idle amazing but has no power in drive
Check to see if ignition timing is advancing per the specifications in the factory service manual as you rev the engine. Measure fuel pump pressure. Check throttle position sensor, oxygen sensors, vacuum leaks, ignition system malfunctions, bad valve timing if...
Question
Radiator keeps blowing coolant back into holding tank
Hi, thanks for writing in. This is a sign that you may need to have the radiator system burped. This is a process that is used to relieve the air in the system which can cause the coolant to overflow...
Question
gas light loose and check engine light comes on I replaced gas cap and the issue still happens
The gas cap is the most common source of evaporative emissions, which would be a reason the check engine light would come on. The evaporative emissions system is designed to limit the evaporation of fumes from the fuel in your...
Question
Starter replaced. Battery at 12V. Still clicking
Hi there. Check all of the connections from the battery to the starter and to the ground. Make sure that all of the connections are tight and free of corrosion. Then check the relay to the starter relay that is...
Question
Need to permanently disable the anti-theft kit
The only way to disable the system is by unlocking the doors or using a factory remote. If the door does not work, then it may have a bad switch on the key lock that needs replaced.