How to Clean Carbon out of Exhaust
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining your vehicle's performance and efficiency. Keeping your vehicle's exhaust system free of carbon buildup is critical to this maintenance routine. Carbon buildup can interfere with the optimal performance of your engine and its emission control system, leading to lower fuel efficiency and possible damage ...
How to Polish a Windshield – a Step-by-step Guide
Polishing a windshield is something every car owner needs to know how to do, yet it is often overlooked. Windshields are integral to any vehicle, providing visibility and protection from the elements. Unfortunately, they can get scratched and lose their shine over time, making visibility challenging. While many commercial windshield ...
How to Clean Chrome Rims
Chrome rims add an element of style and luxury to any vehicle. They not only look fantastic but are also simple to maintain and clean. Unfortunately, over time, chrome rims can accumulate dirt, grime, brake dust, and other contaminants that can make them look dull and dingy. Fortunately, with the ...
Manual Transmission Fluid Check – a Detailed Guide
A reliable and well-maintained vehicle is vital for getting from Point A to Point B safely and on time. For those who own manual transmission vehicles, ensuring their vehicle's fluid levels are at the right level is essential for keeping their car running efficiently. This fluid plays an integral role ...
Bad Idler Pulley – Symptoms, Diagnosis, Repair
The engine in your vehicle is an incredibly complex and finely tuned machine that requires all its components to work together in perfect harmony for it to function properly. One of the most critical parts of the engine is the idler pulley, which helps regulate tension on the drive belts ...
What Is a Compression Test on a Car? What You Need to Know
A compression test aims to identify any problems in your car's cylinders, such as worn rings or valves, that may prevent your engine from operating efficiently. A properly functioning engine should have a high compression ratio, resulting in better fuel efficiency and increased power output from the motor. Understanding how ...
Closed Loop vs. Open Loop Car Systems
Technological progress in the automotive industry has rendered cars more efficient and dependable than ever before. With the introduction of open loop and closed loop car systems, car manufacturers have improved their vehicles' performance and safety. Open loop and closed loop car systems are two different fuel control systems used ...
How to Fix an Oil Drip after Oil Change
Changing the oil is a crucial part of vehicle maintenance and should be performed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. A properly executed oil change ensures your car runs smoothly and efficiently. Unfortunately, oil changes can sometimes lead to leaks, which can be messy and damage your car. If you've just ...
Adding Keyless Entry to Car
Having a keyless entry system on your car can be incredibly convenient. With keyless entry, you can unlock your vehicle quickly and securely without fumbling around for keys. Furthermore, keyless entry systems make adding features such as remote start and security alarms easy. Consider installing a keyless entry system if ...
How to Fix Car Burning Oil
Car burning oil is a common problem for vehicle owners, and it can be both costly and dangerous if left unaddressed. It's important to identify the source of the issue as soon as possible so that you can take steps to mitigate further damage. Fortunately, fixing a car burning oil ...
How Much Octane Booster to Add?
Using octane boosters can enhance your car engine's performance effectively. They can help to reduce engine knocking, improve acceleration, and even increase fuel economy. How much octane booster do you need to add? The answer depends on several factors, such as the type of fuel you're using and the condition ...
What Does the Secondary Air Pump Do in the Car?
The secondary air pump is an essential component of the internal combustion engine in modern motor vehicles, providing a necessary function in fuel-burning efficiency. It reduces the pollutants released into the environment from your automobile's exhaust system. It is designed to inject air into the exhaust stream to help burn ...
How to Add Rear Differential Fluid
The rear differential is a critical component of any automobile's drivetrain and is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. It must be properly maintained and checked regularly, including checking and adding the correct amount of fluid. To ensure that your vehicle's rear differential functions correctly, it ...
How to Make a 5.7 HEMI Faster
The 5.7 HEMI engine is one of the most powerful engines offered by Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep. With up to 392 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, it's a powerhouse no matter your driving needs. If you're looking to elevate your 5.7 HEMI's performance and speed, you're in the right ...
Replacement Automotive Seat Foam
The upholstery of a car seat plays a significant role in creating a comfortable ride. Most automotive manufacturers install foam on the seats to cushion and comfort passengers. Over time, this foam can become worn out or damaged, leading to discomfort and even safety issues. Replacement automotive seat foam can ...
Short Ram Intake Pros and Cons
An intake system is essential to any vehicle's engine, managing the air that flows through it for optimal performance. Though many intake systems exist, the short ram intake is a popular choice for many drivers. Short ram intakes are known for their simple installation process and cost-efficiency. In addition, they ...
How Much to Replace a Timing Chain
Replacing the timing chain is an expensive job, but it's necessary for the safety and performance of your vehicle. Knowing how much it costs to replace this part and understanding what the job entails can help ease the process and ensure you get the best service possible for your vehicle ...
Removing a Torsion Bar
Removing a torsion bar can be daunting for the average car owner, but you can do the job independently with the right tools and information. A torsion bar is an important component of your vehicle's suspension system, and if it needs to be replaced or adjusted, you'll need to remove ...
Small Block Chevy Valve Adjustment
Small block Chevy valve adjustment is an important maintenance step for running your engine smoothly. It's relatively easy but paying attention to detail is key. If you don't do it correctly, the valves may not close properly, and you could end up with more problems than when you started. This ...
How to Paint a Truck Frame – a Step-by-step Guide
Painting a truck frame might appear challenging, but with the appropriate guidance and materials, it's genuinely easy. It's important to ensure all surfaces are properly prepped before beginning and to use the right materials to ensure a professional-looking job. Whether you are a professional auto body shop or an amateur ...
Low Coolant in Car – Diagnosis and Fixes
The temperature of your car's engine is critical for its normal operation and longevity. Without the right amount of coolant, your engine can become too hot and suffer serious damage from overheating. As such, knowing how much coolant you have in your car and what you should do if the ...
What Does Check AWD System Mean?
All-wheel drive systems are essential to modern automobiles, providing improved driving performance and increased safety. However, when these systems malfunction, they can cause major problems. If the 'Check AWD System' warning message appears on your dashboard, it is essential to take the necessary steps to identify and address the issue ...
How to Check Injector Pulse
Injectors are essential to a vehicle's fuel system and can affect its performance in many ways. If they're not functioning correctly, the engine may not be able to generate enough power to get you where you need to go. To identify injector problems, checking them for proper operation is important ...
Bad Valve Seal Symptoms – Causes and Diagnosis
Valves are one of the most essential components of an internal combustion engine, as they play a crucial role in regulating air-fuel mixture and exhaust gases. Unfortunately, valve seals can wear down or leak due to wear and tear. Bad valve seals can lead to reduced performance, increased emissions, and ...
How Long Do Brake Rotors Last?
Brake rotors, or discs, are integral to your vehicle's braking system. If you're wondering how long they last, the answer depends on various factors, including the type of vehicle you drive and how often it needs to be serviced. Regular inspection and maintenance play a significant role in prolonging their ...
How to Fix Knock Sensor Code
If your vehicle gives you a knock sensor code, you’re likely frustrated and may wonder what caused the problem and how to fix it. A knock sensor code known as P0325 indicates something is wrong with the engine’s knock sensor or wiring. To help you better understand this issue, this ...
How to Install a Tachometer – a Step-by-step Guide
A tachometer is a device used to measure the rotational speed of an engine and can be installed in any car, truck, or boat. Tachometers are useful for keeping track of your engine's performance and can help prevent serious damage from occurring due to over-revving or other issues. You can ...
Are Remanufactured Alternators Good?
When it comes to automotive repair, alternators are an essential component. Without a functioning alternator, your car won't start, and its battery will eventually die. It means that it's important to make sure your alternator is in good shape and that you replace it when needed. You may find yourself ...
ABS Control Module Repair in Your Vehicle
Regarding car safety, nothing is more important than the anti-lock braking system (ABS). This system prevents wheel lockup during extreme braking conditions and helps your vehicle stop quickly and safely. But if you encounter any issues with your ABS system, it could mean that something has gone wrong with the ...
How Do I Clean My Fuel Injectors: Step-by-step Guide
Fuel injectors are small devices located in the engine of a vehicle that helps to mix air and fuel before it is sent to the combustion chamber. Over time, these components can become clogged or even damaged due to buildup of dirt and debris, causing them to run less efficiently ...
What Makes a Car Backfire?
Car backfiring is a loud noise coming from the engine, typically described as a poof or bang sound. It occurs when fuel that hasn't been burned is discharged into the exhaust system rather than undergoing combustion within the combustion chamber. Car backfires can be caused by several different components of ...
How to Apply Clear Coat on Car
A clear coat finish is a protective layer of paint applied to your car's exterior surface. It can also provide an eye-catching shine that will make your vehicle look new. Over time, this protective layer can wear away or chip due to exposure to the elements, fading sunlight, and other ...
What Causes Metal Shavings in Engines: a Comprehensive Guide
Metal shavings in car engines are small pieces of metal worn down over time and collected in the engine as metal-on-metal contact occurs. Metal shavings can come from various sources, including worn-out parts, eroded oil seals, improper lubrication, or even dirt and debris. The presence of metal shavings in an ...
Faulty Speed Sensor – Causes, Symptoms, Solutions
A speed sensor is an important component of many automotive systems, including anti-lock brakes, automatic transmission, and cruise control systems. It is responsible for monitoring the speed of a vehicle's wheels and providing feedback to the car's computer or other electronic controllers. When a speed sensor malfunctions, it can cause ...
How to Avoid Over Tightened Oil Filter
Changing your vehicle's oil and oil filter is an important maintenance task that needs to be done regularly. However, if the oil filter is not installed correctly, there can be severe consequences for your engine. One of these problems is an over-tightened oil filter which can lead to various issues, ...
What Does Understeer Mean? A Comprehensive Guide
Understeer is a common phenomenon that affects many drivers. It is an undesirable driving condition where the car refuses to turn in the direction you want it to go. It can be caused by various factors, including the type of tires you have, your alignment and setup, or even driver ...
Diagnosing and Fixing a Flashing Airbag Light in Nissan
When it comes to automotive repairs, a flashing airbag light can be the most frustrating issue to diagnose and fix. As a Nissan vehicle owner, you may be all too familiar with that bright airbag light that turns on and off seemingly randomly. In this article, we will explain why ...
Understanding Bad TBI Fuel Injector Symptoms
A throttle body injection system (TBI) is a computer-controlled fuel injection system found in many modern vehicles. The TBI system is responsible for delivering precise amounts of fuel to the engine, which allows the car to run smoothly and efficiently. When a TBI fuel injector becomes faulty, it can cause ...
Headlight Relay Location: a Comprehensive Guide
If the headlights on your vehicle are not working correctly, you may be dealing with a damaged or failed headlight relay. A headlight relay is an electric switch located in the wiring harness of most modern vehicles and is used to control the power flow to the vehicle's headlights. The ...
Solving Ford Ranger Slave Cylinder Problems
If you own a Ford Ranger, then you may be familiar with the issues associated with its slave cylinder. The slave cylinder is an important part of your vehicle's clutch system; it can cause serious problems when it fails. In this article, we will discuss what causes Ford Ranger slave ...
How to Vacuum a Car AC System: a Step-by-step Guide
Vacuuming a car AC system is an essential maintenance task that can help keep your vehicle's air conditioning system running efficiently. Vacuuming a car AC system involves removing moisture, dirt, and other debris from the air conditioning system's components. It helps ensure that the air conditioner runs smoothly and reliably ...
How to Put Freon in a Chevy Truck
Putting Freon into your Chevy truck is an important part of keeping your vehicle running at its best. Refilling the Freon in a Chevy truck can help maintain the cooling system and keep you comfortable on those hot summer days. The process of refilling Freon is pretty simple, but if ...
How to Clean Idle Air Control Valve in Honda
Every Honda driver knows that regular maintenance is essential to keep their engine running smoothly. One component often overlooked when performing regular maintenance is the idle air control valve or IACV. The idle air control valve helps regulate the air-fuel mixture in the engine, which helps maintain consistent engine speeds ...
What Do Locking Hubs Do in the Car?
Locking hubs are an essential component of a car or truck's four-wheel drive (4WD) system. The purpose of these hubs is to allow the vehicle's front axle and transfer case to be disconnected from each other when the 4WD system is not needed, saving fuel, and reducing wear on the ...
How to Fix Interior Lights Won’t Turn Off
Interior lights in a vehicle, while often taken for granted, play a crucial role in enhancing convenience and safety, particularly during nighttime driving or in low-light conditions. They illuminate the vehicle's controls, compartments and provide better visibility for the driver and passengers. However, what happens when these lights refuse to ...
Bad MAP Sensor Symptoms
When dealing with car performance issues, it's essential to understand the symptoms of a bad map sensor and how to test and troubleshoot it. The MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor is an important part of your vehicle's engine management system, and its role is to measure the amount of air ...
Tail Light Fuse Keeps Blowing – How to Fix It
Are you having trouble keeping your tail light fuse from blowing? Are you uncertain about what could be causing your fuse to blow? Do you know how to troubleshoot and fix the problem? If so, then this article is for you. Here, we'll discuss what can cause a tail light ...
What Is Intermittent Braking?
Intermittent braking is a technique used to control the speed of a vehicle more efficiently than traditional braking methods. This method helps reduce brake wear and tear and also allows for safer and smoother deceleration rates. Intermittent braking involves the use of short, sharp applications of pressure to the brakes ...
Brake Line Compression Fittings – a Comprehensive Guide
Brake line compression fittings join two pieces of metal tubing in a hydraulic brake system. These fittings provide superior strength and tightness than other types of joiners and can be used for applications that require high pressure or vibration. Brake line compression fittings come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, ...
Motor Seized Up – Causes and Solutions
When you're driving, the last thing you want to experience is having your motor seized up. It can be scary when your vehicle suddenly shuts down and won't start again, leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere. Seized up motors are an unfortunately common issue for drivers. It is ...
Loose Flexplate Symptoms: Causes, Diagnosis, Repair
If you own a car with an automatic transmission, it is likely equipped with a flexplate. A flexplate is an essential component of the transmission system, as it helps to transfer the engine's power to the car's drivetrain. However, if this component wears out or becomes loose over time, you ...
What Is a Core Charge on a Battery?
A core charge is an additional fee that is applied to the purchase of a new car battery. Core charges are used to incentivize customers to return and recycle old car batteries, which can be reused or recycled rather than thrown away. Car batteries contain harmful materials, like lead and ...
Identifying the Symptoms of Bad Headlight Switch
Having a functioning headlight switch is essential for being able to drive correctly at night. Headlight or dimmer switches are essential to your vehicle's lighting system. Not only do they control your headlights, but they also manage the parking lights and interior lights. Unfortunately, like all car parts, a headlight ...
Difference between LS and LT Engines
When it comes to the power and performance of your vehicle, it's important to understand the difference between LS and LT engines. They are both popular engine types used in many cars, offering different power output levels, weight, fuel efficiency, and more. In this article, we'll look at the differences ...
Crack in Engine Block – Causes and Solutions
A crack in an engine block is a significant issue and can cause serious damage to your vehicle. Identifying and addressing any signs of wear or damage as soon as possible is important to prevent further damage or costly repairs. In this article, we'll discuss the causes of engine block ...
Common Symptoms of Bad Axle
A bad axle can lead to various problems with your car, truck, or SUV. Since the axle is an essential part of the drivetrain, it's important to identify and repair any issues as soon as possible. In this article, we will discuss what an axle is and list common symptoms ...
What Does Check Charging System Mean?
What does "check charging system" mean? When this warning signal appears on your vehicle dashboard, you may be unsure what it means or how to act. This warning light is most seen in newer model vehicles and usually when the battery cannot hold an adequate charge. This article will explain ...
Where Is the Crank Sensor Located?
The crank sensor is an important component of your vehicle's engine but can be hard to find. Its location depends on the type of vehicle you have. Knowing where to find your vehicle's crank sensor can help you diagnose any issues arising from its malfunction. In this article, we'll discuss ...
Car Dashboard Paint – a Comprehensive Guide
When painting your car’s dashboard, you must use the right type of paint for the job. The main paints used are acrylic enamel, polyurethane enamel, and lacquers. All three paints provide different levels of protection and durability, so choosing the one that best suits your needs is important. The most ...
How to Measure Camber
Camber is an essential part of a car's suspension system. It refers to the angle of the wheels in relation to the car's chassis. Positive camber occurs when the top of the wheel is farther out from the centre line than the bottom, while negative camber means that the top ...
Understanding Ign Fuse Meaning
The ignition system is an integral part of any vehicle, responsible for initiating the engine's combustion process. Among the various components of this system, the ignition fuse plays a critical role. Understanding the ign fuse's meaning and function is essential for every vehicle owner or enthusiast. In this article, we ...
Adding Aux Input to Car’s Audio System
Adding an auxiliary input to your car's sound system is a great way to listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, and more. It allows you to connect any device with a 3.5mm audio jack or Bluetooth connection, such as your smartphone or MP3 player. Adding an AUX input to your car ...
Understanding and Fixing Trac Light in Car
When driving, it's common to see a light illuminate your dashboard. One is the trac light, which is linked to your vehicle's traction control system. While this light turning on can be alarming, understanding its function can help you troubleshoot potential issues and keep your car running smoothly. Understanding the ...
Why Is My Radiator Smoking?
A smoking car radiator can cause concern and indicate an underlying issue needing immediate attention. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or a novice driver, understanding the common causes of radiator smoking and diagnosing the problem is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's health. So, why is your radiator smoking? In ...
How to Paint an Engine: Step-by-Step Guide
Painting an engine is a great way to spruce up the appearance of your car or truck. It's inexpensive and can be done in the afternoon with suitable materials and tools. While it may initially seem complicated, painting an engine is quite easy once you get the hang of it ...
How to Reset Service Engine Soon
A service engine soon light is a common problem for cars with an onboard diagnostic system. It is designed to alert you of car engine or other components problems. When this light illuminates, it can be quite alarming as it can indicate a variety of issues that will need to ...
What Is Engine Failsafe Mode?
Have you ever noticed a warning light or heard an audible alarm from your vehicle and wondered what it means? Chances are that the car is in engine failsafe mode. In this article, we will discuss what engine failsafe mode is, how it works, its importance, and how to diagnose ...
What Is a Big Block in the Car?
Have you ever heard the term “big block engine” and wondered what it meant? It’s a popular term in the automotive world, but many people don’t know what it refers to. In this article, we’ll explain what a big block engine is and how it differs from a small one ...
What Does the Eco Light Mean?
The Eco Light is a feature in many modern vehicles that aims to help drivers increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This light or indicator often illuminates when certain driving conditions are met that optimize fuel efficiency. It is important to understand what it means and how it works to ...
What Is an IAT Sensor in Your Vehicle?
An intake air temperature (IAT) sensor is an important component of a vehicle's engine management system. It is responsible for monitoring the temperature of the air entering the engine intake, allowing the car or truck's computer to adjust the fuel mixture and timing for optimum performance. It is typically located ...
Why Is My Brake Light On? Causes and Fixes
The brake light on your dashboard is an important indicator of the health of your vehicle's braking system. It is designed to illuminate when a problem arises with the brakes, and it should be taken seriously if it comes on unexpectedly. If you spot a brake warning light on your ...
Oil Light Flicker: Causes, Symptoms & Solutions
Oil lights are an important part of any vehicle, and it is crucial to know why they flicker. The flickering of an oil light can indicate serious problems in a car, so it is important to identify and address them as soon as possible. This article will discuss the causes, ...
Understanding the Benefits and Risks of Overdrive Off or On
Understanding when to use overdrive in your car can spark heated debates among drivers, mechanics, and auto engineers. Simply put, overdrive refers to an extra gear ratio in a vehicle's transmission system, allowing the engine to operate at lower RPM while maintaining higher speeds, typically during highway driving. This not ...
Troubleshooting a Car AC Compressor Not Cycling Off
The car air conditioner compressor is critical to any car air conditioning system. It compresses and circulates refrigerant throughout the AC system, keeping the vehicle cool and comfortable. However, it can be stressful and inconvenient when the compressor needs to cycle off as it should. This article will explain why ...
Common Symptoms of a Bad Transfer Case
The transfer case is an important part of a vehicle's drive system, as it transfers the power from the engine to the axles. In 4WD vehicles, it also distributes power to all four wheels. When your vehicle's transfer case is not operating correctly, you may experience many problems affecting its ...
Inner Tie Rod Removal – Step-by-step Guide
Removing an inner tie rod yourself is a cost-effective way to replace the part without having to take your car to the shop. It requires specialized tools and knowledge, but if you have the right equipment and know-how, you can do it yourself. In this guide, we'll cover all the ...
Do Seat Warmers Use Gas?
Do seat warmers use gas? It's a common question when considering the purchase of a car, especially for those who prioritize comfort during cold winter months. Heated seats have become essential for many drivers, providing a comfortable and pleasant driving experience. However, to make an informed decision, it's crucial to ...
Steering Wheel Moves Side to Side – What to Do
A steering wheel moving side to side is frustrating and poses a significant safety risk. Identifying the cause behind this issue is crucial to fix it properly and ensure safe driving. A common culprit for a side-to-side steering wheel movement is a worn or damaged suspension component, such as tie ...
New Battery Won’t Hold Charge – Troubleshooting Guide
A new car battery is a significant investment and ensuring that it provides reliable service for years to come is important. Unfortunately, there may be times when your new car battery won't hold a charge, preventing you from starting up your vehicle. If this happens to you, there are some ...
Symptoms of a Bad TAC Module: Troubleshooting Guide
The TAC Module, or Throttle Actuator Control Module, is an essential part of a vehicle's fuel delivery system. It regulates the air and fuel entering the engine and helps maintain optimal performance. However, it can malfunction for various reasons and cause symptoms like decreased fuel efficiency, poor engine performance, and ...
Diagnosing and Repairing Symptoms of a Bad Idler Arm
If you're having trouble with your car's steering, it could be a sign that the idler arm needs to be replaced. The idler arm is a critical part of the car's suspension system, and it helps keep the steering wheel in line. When an idler arm is worn or damaged, ...
Is It Ok to Drive with a P0300 Code?
A P0300 code is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that indicates random or multiple misfires in your vehicle’s engine. The engine misfires when it fails to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. This can be caused by faulty spark plugs, spark plug wires, coil packs, or other components ...
Can You Run a Car without a Thermostat?
Your car's thermostat is an important component in your engine that helps to regulate the temperature of your car. If you have ever wondered how running a car without it would affect its performance and safety, this article provides answers to all the questions you may have about this topic ...
CV Joint Noise When Turning: Identification and Remedies
Have you noticed a loud clicking sound when turning your car? This noise is typically caused by a worn or damaged constant-velocity (CV) joint. CV joints are found on the ends of the axles that connect to the wheels and allow them to turn freely, and they can suffer damage ...
Understanding the Check Engine Light in Cold Weather
The check engine light is a warning indicator in your vehicle that can tell you when something is wrong. In cold weather, this light may turn on as temperatures drop and the car changes its operating conditions. To understand why this happens and how to fix it, it’s important to ...
What to Do When an Oil Dipstick Broke off in Tube
An oil dipstick is a tool used to measure the amount of oil in the engine of a vehicle. It can be made from metal, plastic or rubber and is inserted into an oil tube that runs from the engine and connects to the oil pan beneath it. Unfortunately, sometimes ...
Does Towing a Car Add Miles?
Towing a car is a great way to move it from one place to another without having to drive it yourself. It can be a convenient and cost-effective method of transportation for long-distance moves, or for hauling extra vehicles. But does towing a car add miles? Many factors can impact ...
Does Remote Start Use More Gas?
Remote starters have become a popular convenience feature for many drivers in recent years, allowing them to start their vehicles remotely with the press of a button. There are numerous practical benefits to this technology, including preheating or cooling the car before its occupants enter, as well as allowing you ...
Oil in Cylinder: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
The presence of oil in the cylinder of an engine can be a concerning issue that warrants attention and prompt resolution. Oil is meant to remain in the engine's lubrication system, and when it finds its way into the cylinder, it can lead to various problems and affect the engine's ...
Troubleshooting a Car Speaker Not Working on One Side
If you have noticed that one side of your car speaker is not working, you may be wondering what the problem is and how to fix it. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot a car speaker that is not working on one side. In this article, ...