Try our new Category View for Detailed topics segregated by their topic.
Now it's even easier to find the information you need.
You can also receive our Detailed Auto Topics, delivered to your computer, as soon as they are written, please subscribe to our RSS feed.
Serpentine drive belts have been around for many years. Originally built of neoprene, a worn-out belt was easy to spot. Cracks in the ribs and fraying meant the belt was bad. A lack of cracking was meant the belt was considered okay but this is no longer true.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (2)
They use hydraulic force to operate brakes, because it is simple and dependable. When things go wrong, we need a bit of understanding to find solutions..
Read More... Post or Read Comments (1)
A brake pedal that is lower than normal is annoying and dangerous. Finding the cause can be tricky, but is much easier with a logical approach.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
The engine drives several accessories such as the air-conditioning compressor, the alternator and the power steering pump. A pulley, connected to the engine crankshaft, turns these accessories by mean of a belt or belts. Older vehicles use multiple V-belts, named for the cross-sectional shape of the belt. V-belts are rare today and manufacturers use serpentine belts and most designs.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
What does a person from South Louisiana know about preparing a vehicle for cold weather? Life in a warm climate gives a unique perspective that may help those that face cold weather.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Many vehicle owners spend time and money maintaining their vehicle. They often overlook a car cover in the process, but we should not ignore their benefits.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
A modern automotive heater provides warmth in the coldest situation. When it fails, things can get cold in a hurry. Finding the cause is important and easier with a basic understanding of how the system works.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Several times a week people call with the question, "How much do you charge flush . . . ?" The first question is always, why do you feel you need this service? The answer always sounds the same. I don’t know, I took my vehicle in for warranty work and they told me I needed it.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Several times a year, clients bring vehicles to us with major brake system problems. The symptoms include the brake pedal going to the floor or the wheels locking up. These vehicles had no previous problems and often do not have high mileage. An improper fluid is added to the brake system, and the result is very expensive.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Try to check the automatic transmission fluid on a later model Toyota and they may surprise you. Toyota, like several other manufacturers, has eliminated the transmission dipstick on many of their models. Servicing and checking automatic transmission fluid level now takes much more time and must be far more precise.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (3)
It is no secret to many GM truck owners that oil consumption is a problem. "This is normal," is often the excuse. A technical service bulletin seems to suggest GM may be softening on their previous position and offering a bit of help with a few models.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
The pneumatic side of the Ford air suspension is where most problems begin. Understanding the consumable nature of some components can help prevent major expense.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Many vehicle manufacturers have tried air suspension over the decades. No one has dominated the category like Ford and Lincoln. The Town Car, Crown Victoria and Grand Marquis models use a rear-wheel air suspension that is legendary. Durability with a great ride is the promise and with a little care these vehicles really deliver.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (1)
Articles, on jump starting a vehicle, will normally include as many warnings as they do instructions. This is for a good reason. Jump-starting a vehicle can be dangerous. It is also potentially very damaging to both vehicles.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (1)
Many folks would like to know, how much air pressure is best for their tires. No answer will be correct for everyone as their situations will vary. These guidelines may help find the pressure that works best for you.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Few things are more damaging to an engine than coolant mixing with the oil. Coolant can enter the oil by many avenues and is very hard to find, until it is too late.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
With all automobile engines, the camshaft and crankshaft must rotate in precise synchronization. Early engines used timing chains or gears. Later designs use a timing belt. Today the timing chain is back, and it is not without problems.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
An oil filter serves a similar function in the engine, as the kidneys do in the human body. The oil filter helps to clean the oil, which is the life blood of the engine. If the oil stops flowing, even for a matter of seconds, severe engine damage can result.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (3)
Many persistent myths about vehicles continue to circulate. Some are harmless though without merit. Other falsehoods continue to cause harm even decades after they have disproved them.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Modern vehicle styling uses exotic shaped headlamps to enhance appearance. Using glass to create these shapes is impractical, so they put a plastic in its place. This allows almost unlimited styles, but lacks the durability of glass, in resisting the elements. Dingy yellow headlamps often result after a few years.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
The terms valve clatter, pinging, pre-ignition and detonation describe the strange rattle or knock coming from an engine. This occurs on acceleration with the engine under a load. The actual conditions vary, but the result is usually the same, engine damage.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Replacing a vehicle is a huge investment, it only makes sense to get the most out of it that we can. Few people really get the full value from their vehicles and the leading cause is improper care. Most people want to care for their vehicles and many think they are doing a good job.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
An automobile accident is traumatic, but living with the vehicle after repair does not need to be. Understanding the things to check, before they deliver the vehicle, can head off many problems.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
At a quick glance most rear drum brakes appear very similar. Actually there are two major types in common use. While they appear similar, they operate in different ways. Understanding the differences can help solve mysterious brake problem.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Perhaps no vehicle symbolizes the US military more than the Jeep. This little four-wheel drive offers versatile transportation, medical support and a tactical vehicle. The relationship between a GI and his Jeep is almost like love. This brief history of the military Jeep is in honor of this valiant little warrior.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
October brings cooler weather and for some repair shops, a slow down in business. The heat that drives many repairs is going, and sales opportunities with them. Part suppliers also feel the pinch and offer incentives to repair shops that push their products in the fall.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
The United States and almost three-quarters of all countries drive on the right side of the road. Theories abound on why some countries choose right and others left.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
In part one, we introduce the fundamental of voltage-drop testing. This segment, explains more examples of this powerful tool.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (3)
Electrical testing prevents expensive guess work. With knowledge and simple tools we can electronically eliminate possibilities instead of replacing parts. This is far superior to parts swapping as a new part is NOT a known good part. We could replace a component, with a defective part, misleading us.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
The primary interest of a true craftsman, is fixing the vehicle properly. By offering great service they earn and honest living. There are also those with the primary interest of making money. They simply do so by repairing vehicles. A little work up front can help direct you to the type individual with whom you would rather deal.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
When folks see a problem, seeking a solution is natural. Often the remedy is as bad as the malady. Wheel locks may slow a thief, but they also create a new set of responsibilities.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Many vehicle manufacturers have come and gone over the years. When a parent company dies, the vehicles left might be considered orphans. This is an interested glimpse into the orphanage.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Most folks are shocked to learn their air conditioner system is contaminated. "How could this happen," is a common response. Many refrigerant products, sold to consumers, contain things other than pure refrigerant.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Many folks come in for transmission repair, and do not have automatic transmission problems. On modern vehicles, many things that feel like a transmission problem are not.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
With good care, most vehicles will give well more than 200,000 miles of dependable service. A lack of attention kills many at around 130,000 miles. The tipping point seems to occur around 100,000 miles, when it is not too late to reverse a lack of maintenance.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
What is an emergency auto repair? Any time a person’s vehicle is broken is an emergency to them. The only way to deal with emergencies is to prepare in advance, and that is easier than most people realize.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Replacing coolant is not difficult, but it must be done correctly. Improper replacement of coolant is worse than not changing at all. Many shops do the job improperly. Using a new car dealership is also no assurance the job will be done properly. Best is to find a cooling system specialist that uses OEM coolant and distilled water, or do the job yourself.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
The two primary symptoms of automotive cooling system failure are leaks and an overheated engine. Corrosion is the most common issue, largely caused by a lack of and improperly done maintenance. Properly replacing coolant is far more complex than most people realize.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Which of the following top-selling vehicles is a "U.S. Vehicle"?
(hint, According to the American Automobile Labeling Act (AALA) to be considered a U.S. car, it must be built in the U.S. and have 75% of its components made in the United States or Canada)
Read More... Post or Read Comments (1)
People do not need auto repair service sold to them; they need a solution to their problem. Businesses exist that provide both functions. Selection is key to a great experience.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Auto repair is always high on the list of service complaints. The most frequent complaint is a failure to fix the vehicle. Why has this trend continued for decades? The answer is in the fundamental structure of the business and customers do have power to make changes.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
With the invention of cars, for the first time, people could travel and see previously inaccessible parts of the Country. The driving-vacation is still a great part of most people’s lives, and these tips may make it a bit safer.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Recent model General Motors engines have more than their share of oil leaks. The Generation III and IV V-8 engines are notorious for oil spots. A little known technical service bulletin sheds some light on one issue.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Search the web, and you will find huge amounts of mis-information on engine coolants. This is especially common in the case of the orange GM coolant, Dexcool. Statistically, I see no less problems with green, yellow, red or any other coolant on the market. Properly serviced, all coolants work well. Improperly serviced all coolants will have problems.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (2)
Sensors provide the PCM with information, which is processed and used to operate the vehicle. When a sensor fails, or reports suspicious information, the engine computer issues a warning. A check engine light often means a sensor is not reporting acceptable data.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Truly saving money always involves thought. Many things appearing to have a lower price, will cost us much more, when considered over time. This is seldom more true than with tires. A wise choice when purchasing, sets the stage for lowest costs. Caring for the tires after the purchase, really delivers the savings
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
The most common question folks ask about auto repair may be setting them up for an expensive, frustrating experience . . .
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Bob and Tom have almost identical cars. Both have high mileage and both have an oil spot on their driveway. They take the cars in for repair. Bob pays $250.00 and Tom pays more than $2000.00. Both oil leaks are fixed, so who got the right job?
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Lifting a vehicle is often necessary when doing repairs or maintenance. It is also one of the most dangerous tasks an enthusiast will do. Professionals have lifts that make the job safe and easy. This is usually not feasible for the enthusiast, but a few simple tools and a bit of care can prevent a catastrophe.
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
People often buy vehicles that specify premium fuel only, and later would like to save by using a lower-grade fuel. The term octane is a very misunderstood, and a great deal of misinformation is around. Is it really necessary to use the high-octane fuel in a vehicle that specifies it?
Read More... Post or Read Comments (0)
Registered visitors are always invited to leave their comments and thoughts by using the form above. If you need to you can login here or register here .
You can also win a free AGCO coffee cup, by reporting any errors you find, with this form .
