Bad Transfer Case Symptoms
The transfer case is one of the most important components that distinguish all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles. Driving all four wheels provides superior traction, resulting in improved...Read more
How to Fix a Stuck Car Window
It’s a nice day out, so you decide to roll down your car's windows to enjoy some fresh air. But then you get on the freeway, and you press the...Read more
P0335 or Crankshaft Position “A” Circuit Malfunction
The P0335 trouble code indicates a possible issue with your vehicle’s crankshaft. But what exactly does this mean and how can you resolve the problem? Read on to learn more...Read more
P0016 Code: Camshaft Position A – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1)
The P0016 error code concerns the camshaft and crankshaft—two important components within your vehicle’s engine. These two must be perfectly synchronized for the engine to function properly. So, if your...Read more
What Happens When a Wheel Bearing Goes Out
Wheel bearings support the weight of the vehicle and allow the wheel/tire assembly to rotate when you’re traveling down the road. All four of your car’s wheels have wheel bearings....Read more
Bad Throttle Body Symptoms
The throttle body is the device in your vehicle that opens and closes to regulate the amount of air entering the engine. When it gets dirty, clogged, or damaged, you...Read more
P0138 Code: O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1, Sensor 2)
Is your vehicle triggering a P0138 trouble code on your OBD-II scanner? If so, read on to find out what this code means, what the symptoms and possible causes are,...Read more
Oil Pan Leaks: What are the Causes and How to Fix
Oil is considered one of the most critical fluids in a car because it lubricates (and provides a barrier between) the internal engine components. Without oil, friction between these components...Read more
How to Change Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid serves to cool, lubricate, and provide a barrier between the moving parts of your car’s transmission. In an automatic transmission, the fluid is also used to create hydraulic...Read more
P0113 Code: Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Input
On the spectrum of OBD-II codes, a P0113 is considered moderately severe. This means that, if you’re having issues with your vehicle and your OBD-II scanner reads a P0113 trouble...Read more
P0303 Code: Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected
A misfire occurs when there is an insufficient amount of fuel burning in a cylinder. Since the way the engine runs relies heavily on the proper functioning of its cylinders,...Read more
What are the Symptoms of a Bad Speed Sensor?
The vehicle speed sensor (VSS) is also commonly referred to as a transmission speed sensor or output shaft speed sensor. It is a small device—typically mounted somewhere on the transmission—that...Read more
How to Test a Blower Motor Resistor
If your car’s blower has only 4 or 5 different speed settings, it likely uses a simple electric resistor to control the fan’s speed. The resistor limits electrical current so...Read more
Bad Tie Rod End Symptoms
A tie rod end is one of the lesser-known components of a car—but that doesn’t make it any less important. Tie rod ends are essential to the safe operation of...Read more
P0301 Code: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
A P0301 is one of a series of OBD-II error codes that are triggered when your vehicle’s computer has detected a “misfire.” What exactly does this diagnostic code entail? Read...Read more
P0442 Code: Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Small Leak)
The P0442 code is one of the many OBD-II codes that can trigger if your vehicle perceives an issue with its EVAP system. In this article, we’ll explain what a...Read more
P0401 Code: Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Flow Insufficient Detected
The error code P0401 is one of the 20 most common OBD-II codes faced by a lot of car owners, although it can be more prevalent in certain makes, such...Read more
P0496 Code: EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition
Is your vehicle recording a P0496 on your OBD-II scanner? This code, which is one of the many OBD-II codes that can trigger the Check Engine Light, may not present...Read more
How to Detail Your Car’s Exterior: Get a Showroom Shine with These Key Detailing Tips
National Car Care Month, which is celebrated every April, acts as a reminder to take care of all aspects of your vehicle—including the exterior. Although many owners think a quick...Read more
How to Tint Headlights: A Step-by-Step Guide
As most of the population shelters in place in the next few weeks to prevent the spread of COVID-19, many are choosing to keep a positive mindset and look for...Read more
Bad Motor Mount Symptoms
Just imagine driving along, when suddenly you hear a clunking sound coming from your car’s engine compartment. This noise, which usually occurs when you accelerate or slam on the brakes,...Read more
P0440 Code: Evaporative Emission Control System Malfunction – Large Leak
A P0440 is a generic powertrain code, which means it can appear in any vehicle regardless of make or model. Unlike other OBD-II codes, it will not affect the drivability...Read more
P0014 Code: Camshaft Position B – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0014 is a generic powertrain code that can apply to all types of vehicles. The DTC stands for Camshaft Position B - Timing Over-Advanced or System...Read more
Essential Underhood Maintenance Tips from Our Chief Mechanic
In the past, cars required constant adjustments to mechanical bits, such as carburetors and ignition points. Thankfully, today’s vehicles are governed by computers and other electronics—and that means far less...Read more
P0172 Code: Fuel System Too Rich (Bank 1)
Is your Check Engine Light illuminated? Are you experiencing engine misfires? Or perhaps you’re noticing an unusual lack of engine power when you drive? While these symptoms are not exclusive...Read more
How Long Does a Catalytic Converter Last?
A catalytic converter is an emissions control device located in your car’s exhaust system. You probably know that much already. But what you might not know is—just how long is...Read more
P0141 Code: Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1, Sensor 2)
There are around 11,000 different trouble codes in the most recent OBD-II index. So what makes the P0141 code stand out from the rest? This article will cover the details,...Read more
P0011 Code: “A” Camshaft Timing Over Advanced (Bank 1)
The P0011 is a generic OBD-II code, which means it is common across all manufacturers. But more specifically, this specific fault code can be triggered in vehicles with variable camshaft...Read more
P0340 Code: Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Malfunction
A P0340 error code can be a serious issue that requires immediate attention, as the underlying cause can lead to engine damage the longer you continue to use the vehicle....Read more
P0441 Code: Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow
If the Check Engine Light is illuminated on your dashboard and your OBD-II scanner shows a P0441 trouble code, this means that there’s a problem with your EVAP system—or more...Read more
P0455 Code: Evaporative Emission System Large Leak Detected
If the Check Engine Light is illuminated and it’s triggering a P0455 code on your OBD-II scan tool, you may be looking at a gas cap issue. But that’s certainly...Read more
P0446 Code: Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Control Circuit Malfunction
OBD-II codes help you find out what is wrong with your vehicle—but if you don’t know what a specific code means, how can you address the issue? If you’re getting...Read more
P0174 Code: System Too Lean (Cylinder Bank 2)
While the P0174 OBD-II trouble code is not manufacturer-specific and is considered a generic powertrain code, it can be more common in certain car makes than others. More specifically, a...Read more
Symptoms of a Bad Power Steering Pump
An average vehicle weighs about 2,900 pounds. That, of course, will vary depending on what type of vehicle you’re driving. On average, a midsize car can weigh up to 3,400...Read more
Bad Cooling Fan Relay Symptoms
Most vehicles rely on a liquid-cooled cooling system to regulate their engine temperature. A mixture of water and antifreeze flows through channels and absorbs the heat produced by the engine....Read more
Do You Need an Alignment After Replacing Shocks and Struts?
Every so often, car owners are faced with the task of replacing their shocks and strut assemblies to ensure proper ride height and maximum ride comfort. While knowing when to...Read more
When to Replace the Timing Chain on Your Vehicle
Your car’s engine contains many components, one of which is either a timing belt or a timing chain. Although the timing chain doesn’t get as much attention as some other...Read more
How to Remove Blind Spot Mirrors
A blind spot mirror is an accessory that you can attach to the side mirror of your car to increase your visibility of the road. Also known as a fish-eye...Read more
P0420 Code: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
There are many issues that could trigger the Check Engine Light to illuminate. However, if you use an OBD-II scanner and get a P0420 code, you may be having issues...Read more
How to Clean Bugs Off Your Car
If you live in a state where there is a dense population of bugs, such as Florida or Louisiana, it’s inevitable that your car will get splattered with bugs on...Read more
What is Brake Fluid and What Does it Do?
Every driver knows what brake fluid is, and you’ve probably topped up once or twice already. But have you ever wondered what it does or how it functions inside the...Read more
How to Clean a Radiator
You can tell that you have a clogged radiator once you start observing signs such as overheating and inefficient cabin heating. But why wait for this to happen when performing...Read more
Car Maintenance Tips for Spring
The chill of winter is finally wearing off and spring is just around the corner. That means rebirth and rejuvenation for not only nature but your vehicle, as well. Although...Read more
Power Steering Not Working: Why This Happens and What to Do
Imagine you are driving at highway speed jamming to your favorite song when suddenly, you feel this weird resistance from the steering wheel. You find yourself having to exert more...Read more
Fog Lights: What They Do and When to Use Them
Heavy fog, rain, and other weather conditions that reduce your visibility on the road can make driving difficult—if not downright impossible. If your vehicle isn’t equipped with the right lighting...Read more
P0430 Code: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)
Your vehicle starts belching smoke. The engine might stall, lose power, and idles roughly. Finally, the Check Engine Light switches on. When you plug the OBD-II scanner into the connector,...Read more
P0171 Code: System Too Lean (Bank 1)
For combustion engines to function smoothly, it needs to have a mixture of 14.7 parts air to 1 part fuel (14.7:1). To maintain this, the engine control module (ECM) constantly...Read more
P0300 Code: Random or Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
If you’ve got a P0300 on your hands, buckle up—you might be in for a complicated diagnostic and repair process. In terms of severity, this OBD-II code is critical and...Read more
P0128 Code: Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature
When the check engine light pops on in your car, you immediately start to wonder what it means, and whether it’s something serious. Retrieving diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) can help...Read more
How to Tell If the Catalytic Converter is Clogged
More than 90% of cars today are powered by internal combustion engines (ICE)—and until electric vehicles completely take over, this type of engine is likely here to stay. However, it...Read more
Can You Put Seat Covers on Heated Seats and Is it Safe?
There’s nothing more satisfying than stepping inside a warm and toasty car after freezing outdoors on a cold winter day. In addition to cranking up the heater, you can turn...Read more
How Often Do Brakes Need to Be Replaced?
A vehicle’s brake system is one of its most critical safety features. It allows you to slow down or bring the vehicle to a complete stop when necessary. But as...Read more
How Long Do Shocks Last?
Your car’s suspension system is made up of various components that work together to keep the vehicle from bouncing around when driving over bumpy roads—and one such component is the...Read more
Radiator Fluid Colors Vary and How To Pick the Right One
Radiator fluid, also known as engine coolant or antifreeze, was first used in military vehicles during World War I. Ethylene glycol was initially used as an alternative to glycerol to...Read more
How to Close Car Hood Properly
Exercising care when closing the hood of your car is important in keeping it in good working condition. The hood protects the most essential components of your vehicle, which includes...Read more
How Long Do Brake Rotors Last?
The braking system is one of the most hardworking components of your car. And because it takes a lot of abuse, certain parts of the brake assembly will need to...Read more
[Infographic] What to Consider Before You Start Doing Your Own Auto Repairs
YouTube makes fixing your own car look easy. Undo a couple of bolts here, unplug a few electrical connectors there, and the job is done. But in reality, auto repair...Read more
How to Get Moisture Out of Headlights
Condensation is a natural occurrence that happens when water vapor condenses into a liquid. In regard to your car’s headlights, the phenomenon takes place when the outside air is cooler...Read more
How to Remove Scratches from Your Car Bumper
Getting scratches out of your car bumper can be costly if you get it done at an auto body shop. But if the scratches aren’t too bad, you can opt...Read more
How to Pass an Emissions Test: 7 Tips That May Help
Note: Please check your local and state laws regarding exemptions and coverage of car emissions testing in your area. Emission testing, or smog check, ensures your car meets the emission...Read more
How to Get Dog Hair Out of Your Car
Driving with your dog, whether on a short jaunt or on a long road trip to the beach, is always special. But having a furry companion in the car isn’t...Read more
Brake Dust: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Wheels Clean
You know that black residue that builds up on your car’s wheels? Yup, that’s brake dust. It’s a naturally occurring phenomenon that’s hard to eliminate. But with a few helpful...Read more
Can You Make Your Mustang as Rad as the Bullitt GT?
Last week, history was made when the most famous—and now the most expensive—Ford Mustang sold at Mecum Auctions for $3.4 million. The car on the block? The iconic 1968 Ford...Read more
Wheel Bearing Noise: Do You Have a Bad Wheel Bearing?
You’re driving along on a warm, sunny day listening to your favorite song. Life is good. But when you turn down the radio, you hear an unusual noise that coincides...Read more
How to Clean Foggy or Oxidized Headlights
At one time, you were in love with your car—just the sight of it made you swoon. But now, thanks to those yellow, oxidized headlights, your car is, well, ugly....Read more
How to Remove Ice From Your Car and Windshield
Nobody enjoys starting their day by scraping ice off their windshield. It’s tedious work, and it can be tempting to remove just enough ice to see from the driver’s side...Read more
How to Keep Rats Out of Your Car During Winter
Summary: Rodents love the heat that your car produces especially during the winter, therefore attracting them towards the insides of your vehicle.They can cause a range of damage, from gnawed...Read more
Squeaky Brakes: What Do They Mean & How to Fix Them
Nothing—except, perhaps, 90s boy band music—sounds worse than squeaky brakes. Every time you press the brake pedal, the unnerving sound fills your ears. Besides turning up the radio, and masking...Read more
I have a leased car – all I’m interested in is keeping my costs to a minimum when turning it back in.
Assuming your lease is for 3 years or less. Under hood checks Once a month. New vehicles require less attention and most problems are covered by the warrantee, BUT if...Read more
Bad Catalytic Converter Symptoms: Signs to Watch Out For
When I was 20 years old, I owned a Pontiac Trans Am. Of course, it was bright red because, at that age, I wanted something flashy. The car also had...Read more
What are the Signs of a Bad Heater Core?
The heater core, which is part of the cooling system, helps transfer heat from the hot engine coolant into the cabin.An inoperative heater, a slimy film on the windows, a...Read more
What is a Distributor?
Thankfully, today’s cars no longer have distributors. Modern engines use individual coil packs, which are far less complicated, instead. But there are still countless vehicles on the road with a...Read more
How to Replace Your Tail Light Assembly
There are several reasons why you may want to replace your entire tail light assembly (not just the bulb). Maybe you got into a fender bender and the lens is...Read more
Understanding Tire Speed Rating & Tire Load Index
Tires are essential in keeping your vehicle maneuverable on the road. They’re made of vulcanized rubber—which is rubber that has been hardened and cooked—so that they can grip the ground...Read more
Keeping Your Cool Behind the Wheel: How to Deal with Road Rage
Imagine driving on the highway with your kids strapped in the backseat, and suddenly a car cuts into your lane without their turn signals on. You step on the brakes...Read more
How to Prepare for Hazardous Winter Driving
It’s that time of year again—Old Man Winter is here. And he’s angry. If you live in a part of the country that sees real winter conditions (60-degree temperatures and...Read more
How to Replace a Side Mirror
There are several reasons why you might want to replace one of your car’s side mirrors. Maybe some dimwit sideswiped you and knocked off your mirror. Or perhaps you’ve got...Read more
How to Replace a Halogen Headlight Assembly
There are several reasons you might want to replace your entire headlight assembly (not just the bulb). Maybe you got in a fender bender and the lens is broken. Or...Read more
How to Avoid Thanksgiving Traffic Jams: When is the Best Time to Travel and Other Tips
Travelling on the road during the holiday season can get really stressful really quickly. Traffic, just like turkey and stuffing, has now become part and parcel of every Thanksgiving. It...Read more
How to Install Power Folding Mirrors on a 2015 Ford F-150
Upgrading from standard mirrors to power folding mirrors (standard or tow) on any 2015+ Ford F-150 may seem like a difficult task, but it really isn't. With the Kool Vue...Read more
How to Replace a Front Lower Control Arm
Control arm replacement can be difficult—especially if the vehicle’s suspension is rusted and corroded. Separating the ball joint from the steering knuckle can be tricky, too, if you’ve never done...Read more
How to Diagnose a Faulty Control Arm
Control arms are basically just big hunks of metal. Unless they suffer impact damage from, say, a collision, they rarely fail. Instead, what usually require replacement are the bushings and...Read more
Hand Turn Signals for Driving
Your vehicle is equipped with various lights and warning devices to allow you to communicate with drivers and pedestrians on the road. Turn signals allow you to visually warn other...Read more
Common Control Arm Symptoms
When it comes to car parts, control arms don’t get a lot of attention. Instead, it’s all about engines and transmissions. You know, the big, expensive stuff. But control arms...Read more
A Wake-up Call Against Drowsy Driving: Serious Signs and Prevention
Most of us underestimate the benefits of a good night’s sleep. We live in a time where being overworked and sleep-deprived are proudly worn as badges of honor. But what...Read more
School Bus Safety Guide: Common Safety Rules and Stop-Arm Laws
According to the latest National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, children are 70 times more likely to get to school safely if they ride a school bus instead of...Read more
How to Replace a Brake Disc
Changing a set of brake discs is usually one of the easier automotive repairs. Many people attempt a brake job shortly after learning how to perform other basic tasks, such...Read more
How to Diagnose Faulty Front Brake Discs
Rotors don’t take fancy equipment to diagnose. Most professionals test-drive the vehicle to see how the brakes feel. Then they perform a visual inspection of the rotors and, if necessary,...Read more
Think You’re Ready to Build the Car of Your Dreams? First, Consider This.
Building a project car can be a lot of fun—if you think ahead and plan things out. Like any other undertaking, it helps to be organized and have a strategy...Read more
8 Tips for Finding a Great Mechanic or Repair Shop
Is your car’s check engine light on? Or maybe there’s a clunking noise coming from the undercarriage? Uh-oh—it sounds like you need to visit a mechanic, a.k.a. automotive technician. But...Read more
How to Replace Front Brake Pads
Brake pad replacement is usually one of the easier automotive repairs. Many people attempt it shortly after learning how to perform other basic tasks, such as changing engine oil. But...Read more
How to Diagnose Worn Brake Pads
Diagnosing a set of worn brake pads is pretty easy. Generally, all you need are your eyes and a few simple tools. Note: The following is a general guide for...Read more
Safety Tips for Parents of New Teen Drivers
Watching your kid transition from a learner’s permit to a driver’s license may give you a feeling of de ja vu, like a reboot of a John Hughes movie unfolding...Read more
Common Symptoms of Bad Brake Pads
Brake pads are a crucial yet frequently neglected part of your car. All too often, you’ll hear a vehicle that makes a horrendous grinding noise while braking. That sound usually...Read more
Common Symptoms of a Bad Brake Disc
Here’s a novel concept: Disc brake systems contain brake discs, which are also referred to as rotors. Like brake pads, rotors are considered wear items that require periodic replacement. I...Read more
[Infographic] 15 Tips to Prep Your Car for the End of Daylight Saving Time
On Sunday, November 3rd, the clocks get set back, marking the end of daylight saving time. That means hoodies and hot cocoa—along with pumpkin everything—are just around the corner. And...Read more
10 Halloween Driving Safety Tips
It's almost Halloween--that time of the year when kids in costume flock the streets for candy and a night of spooky fun. Despite its festive vibe, statistics show that Halloween...Read more
[Infographic] How to Prevent or Deal with Deer-Vehicle Collisions: A Complete Guide
We're a few weeks away from deer migration and mating season, when deer roam and forage for food in preparation for the long winter. A time of year that, unfortunately,...Read more
How to Replace a Brake Caliper
Brake caliper replacement is pretty simple – until you get to the bleeding part. Then you’ll need a friend (and possibly a whole lot of patience) to finish the job....Read more
How to Diagnose a Faulty Brake Caliper
Before spending your hard-earned money on a new caliper, you’ll want to make sure the old one is bad. The good news is that caliper diagnosis is straightforward and doesn’t...Read more
