DIY Auto Repair and Diagnosis

I bought a TOPDON BT100 battery and alternator tester for my at-home toolbox to replace a bulky old Snap-On tester, and want to share what I found out!

This article, via video, will show you how to replace the rack and pinion assembly commonly found on Toyota and Lexus passenger sedans (i.e., Camry, Avalon, Corolla, ES300, ES330, etc.) The replacement was necessary due to power steering fluid leakage coming from the inner tie rod end seals.

How to test your vehicle yourself to investigate common and not-so-common reasons for a sluggish engine.

Is your car idling high? Check the most common sources of abnormal fast idle problems.

Test your vehicle catalytic converter in your own garage.

Here are the most likely reasons for bad clutch performance, a noisy clutch, or strange behavior by the clutch pedal. Look for your symptoms here.

If you have a car idling low, there are a few common components you can check at home using some simple tools.

Check the most common faults that might cause an engine to run cold.

How to drain and replace the ATF on your Camry, or flush the ATF if necessary. Includes videos of flushing the ATF with and without the help of a 12-volt oil pump.

Does your engine crank, but won't start? This guide tells you where to begin your diagnostic and what to do next.

Checking for a bad engine ground can fix dimmed lights, faulty sensors, and hard starting, and it can prevent severe damage.

How to replace the radiator on your Toyota Camry. No special tools required. Plenty of photos and step-by-step instructions.

The basics of turbocharging and what to look for when buying a turbocharger for an Acura or Honda.

How to tell if your MAP sensor is bad and how to test it in your garage.

If your battery dash light is flickering and your battery is discharging, it could be the electronic load detector. The video here shows how to replace it.

This article, via video, will show you how I replaced the passenger-side axle shaft on a 2008 Toyota Camry. You can use this procedure as a guide for other Toyota and Lexus passenger sedans since Toyota's axle design is consistent.