Showing articles & questions for topic
Repairs

Corolla 1.8L engines for model years 1998 through 2008 all used the same head casting and the same block casting. However, beginning in August 1999, and continuing through model year 2008, all of the 1.8L engines were equipped with variable...

The belt is either too tight or too loose, pulleys (including that on the harmonic balancer), the tensioner, and accessories are out of plane, and/or the belt driven accessories are binding, that is they are not turning freely because the...

Unless there is a contributing factor in the failure, such as a deteriorated hose or hose clamp failure, the person who improperly connected the radiator hose is the only person responsible for repairing or replacing the engine. They may do...

Hello, thank you for writing in. There are a few things you can try. The most commonly utilized options includes larger and longer tools for more leverage. If you are attempting to save the axle you are removing, you will...

Hello Mike. You have found yourself in a position where there is a lot to consider, and the choice is going to come down to how much risk you are willing to take with this truck. Starting with the knock...

Hello, thank you for writing in. Considering the age of the vehicle, it may be under warranty. It is absolutely worth looking into. Only the dealer will be able to answer that question for you depending on your specific agreement...

It takes a mechanic about 2 hours. The main thing you have to keep in mind is gasoline is flammable and the vapors can accumulate and explode. You have to be mindful of even your shop light, and static electricity,...

It depends on the source of the smoke. If the vehicle is overheating, any use could quickly ruin the engine. If the smoke is from engine oil dripping onto a hot exhaust manifold, you could end up with an engine...

Hi there. If your engine is stalling out on you and the shop has said that the issue is your ignition coils, try checking the coils and see if there is a spark coming out of them by removing the...

Most vehicles last between 250K to 350K depending on the maintenance that is performed. Some exceptions are when the vehicle is taken real good care of and lasts more than 350K miles. If the vehicle is at 130K miles and...

There could be a combination of faults creating the shaking effect you are feeling. Certain tire defects, particularly internal belt damage or separations, as well as irregular tire wear will cause vehicle shaking, or shimmy, and such could be "set...

Hi there. When replacing the lower ball joints to your vehicle, you will need to press down on the ball joint to remove it. Before trying to remove the ball joint, check to see if there is a snap ring...

Repairs for over $6000 on this vehicle is common on a vehicle that is this age and would be a decision foe you to decide if you want to spend the $6000 to repair this one or trade it in...

Hello, thank you for writing in. You will have to decide if the amount of work is worth it vs purchasing a new support. We recommend that you remove the mount to bend it back. To do so will require...

The purpose of the SES light is to alert you that there is a malfunction in the engine or powertrain. When the SES light turns on, you can attach a code scanner to the vehicle's OBD-II port under the steering...

Faults with the mass air flow sensor do not cause noise. The noise could be due to exhaust leaks, or internal faults in exhaust components such as the muffler or resonator if equipped. Belt driven accessories can be the source...

Hello, thank you for writing in. Unfortunately your situation is going to require a second mechanic to inspect the vehicle. The biggest issue concerns the "tune up", as we do not know exactly what they did during that process. Tune...

Hello, thank you for writing in. There are several aspects to consider in this situation. First of all, dealerships are known for insanely high labor rates, but labor should not be over $100/hr for most repairs. The technicians that work...

Hi there. It is okay to replace a catalytic converter with using clamps and sleeves. However, you will need to make sure that there is no exhaust leaks. An exhaust leak before any oxygen sensor will cause the engine light...

Good afternoon Sybil. Thank you for continuing to ask questions. The more you know about the issues with your car, the better informed you will be to make good decisions about repairs The Manifold Tuning Valve for your Sebring can...