DIY Auto Repair and Diagnosis

DIY How To Honda Accord engine head gasket, timing belt, water pump and radiator replacement / replacement.

When do you need to replace it? What should you replace along with it? And what does it take to do it yourself?

If your brakes squeak and you want to know why, maybe I can help! Here are four common brake squeaks plus a bonus scraping noise; compare these situations to yours. Questions are welcome.

Tips and precautions to use when replacing your brake pads, so you can get quality results on a Honda or any other vehicle.

What do you do when your power window gets stuck in the down position and you don't have the money to get it fixed by a mechanic? Here are the steps I took to close my car's power window manually.

A knocking or ticking noise from your engine is a sign that something is wrong, usually because of a lack of oil. If you're questioning what is normal engine noise, I may have the answer.

VSS, WSS, CKT and CMP speed and position sensors are used by the ECM or other computers to keep track of the position and speed of the crankshaft and camshaft, and the speed of the vehicle and its wheels.

Imagine getting a flat tire on your way to work. You stop to change your tire, and a lug nut is stripped and won't come off. Access to a couple simple tools will prevent this from becoming a problem.

Performance car enthusiasts have been asking this question for years and continue to ask it. Both are great engines that offer subtle trade-offs over the other. Understand which one is right for you.

Loss of cooling at high engine speeds? It is very likely that you have a variable-displacement compressor. Before deciding to replace the compressor, read this article.

Besides battery problems, solenoids are probably the most common cause of failure in a golf cart. I'll show you how to check your solenoid in a matter of seconds.

DIY Toyota I4 (5SFE) engine oil-leak repair. Plenty of photos and step-by-step repair instructions.

Install a car thermostat replacement in minutes without causing coolant leaks, damage to components, or engine overheating.

Stuck brake and no brake are common brake failures encountered when replacing rubber seals or repair kit on a brake master cylinder. This shouldn't be a problem if we know how a master cylinder works.

This article explains how to build a turbo Honda or Acura yourself and what to look for in a bolt-on turbo kit.

Diagnose and fix common vehicle charging system problems using a few tools and this guide.

Instructions on changing the front disc brake pads and rotors on a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup. May be applicable to other years or vehicles.

The color of the exhaust smoke can give you valuable information about the state of health of the engine.

AC system diagnosis can be done by feeling the lines for the correct temperature/ pressure relationship. With gauges hooked up, the pressures can be measured and then diagnosed.

When you want to diagnose engine noise, let your ear and these simple methods guide you.

A guide on how to choose a sway bar that will work both for your car and your driving style. Suspension components and vehicle dynamics are complicated systems, but a proper sway bar upgrade can make all the difference when it comes to performance handling.

Fluid leaking from a car could mean immediate repairs are needed, or it could be something totally normal. In this article, you will learn how to identify the leak and figure out what, if anything, needs to be done about it.

Don't let trouble code P0171 or P0174 leave you without your ride and, worst of all, with an expensive repair bill later on.

Detailed information, with photos and helpful tips, on removing and replacing a power steering pump on a 2000 Dodge Durango. This is actually a common procedure for most Dodge 318 cubic-inch engines.

ECU remapping, engine chipping, and chip tuning all mean the same thing. This guide explains exactly what is meant by these terms and will help you to decide whether remapping your car or van will benefit you!

How to use a voltage drop test to troubleshoot common automotive problem circuits to speed up repairs and save money.

This guide helps you diagnose turn signal problems when one or more of the signal lights refuses to work.

Learn how to check an oxygen sensor and eliminate hit-and-miss repairs using a digital multimeter.

Install a brake booster replacement following these simple steps, even if you have to remove the brake master cylinder.

Diagnosing simple fuel pump problems is within the reach of the average car owner. Use this guide to get your car back on the road faster.

This is a DIY on changing out your coolant temperature sensor that can lead to rough idle and a number of other problems. This DIY works for Audi and VW across the board depending on year.

Learn how to solve your BMW`s electrical problems easy and avoid the costly trips to the dealership.

If you recognize one or more of these symptoms, have a look into your camshaft position sensor before it gets you in trouble.

Troubleshoot your potentially bad brake booster by using the simple tests in this guide to save time and money.

This guide shows you how to locate, remove, and clean your exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve on Renault Trafic, Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro, and Nissan Primastar vans. Cleaning helps your diesel engine run smoothly and it's possible to bypass the valve to increase performance, and economy.

Learn how to jump-start a car and how to charge a car battery to restore battery power and increase its service life.

If your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, check these common sources of trouble.

How to fix or replace broken wire harness clips or plugs on all VW and Audi cars: 1.8T Jetta, GTI, Golf MK4, and Audi B5 and B6. You can use a special tool or a paper clip!

Learn how to change a front wheel bearing with a step-by-step guide with photos and a video. In the video, you will learn what a damaged wheel bearing sounds like and how to determine which wheel bearing is causing the noise. Once you learn this trick of the trade, your mechanic can never sell you a wheel bearing you don't need.

Do-it-yourself Front Wheel Drive (FWD) wheel bearing replacement for most Toyotas and many other cars. Lots of photos, and details about tools needed.

Brake fluid leaks: learn how to find a leak in the brake system before it's too late.

Worried your fan belt is bad? Hearing strange squealing or whining noises from your car? Thinking about a few extra things every car should have in a tune up? Look no further! This article's for you!

Use a car battery hydrometer on a dead car battery or suspected bad car battery to learn its state of charge and health in minutes.

For car and truck owners who have a "check engine" light on caused by OBDII codes P0171 and P0174 (Fuel System Too Lean), here are some tips for diagnosis and troubleshooting.

Does it really kill your own battery to jump someone else's car? Are there any ways to protect your battery when helping out a friend? Read this article to find out more.

Hyundais have a common problem with the A/C not working when the car is stopped. It's often a bad connector that is very easy to fix for under $20. This article will show you how to do the fix yourself.

A diagnostic routine for figuring out these throttle-related trouble codes in a 2002 Nissan Altima.

When your engine starts but stops, concentrate your diagnostic efforts on those systems or components most likely to cause the failure.

Is oil leaking from your car or truck? Want to know why that's happening or how to fix it? Great! You've found the right article here!

If your engine won't turn over, this guide will help you find the most common—and not so common—problem sources.

You're driving down the road and your steering wheel is shaking like an earthquake. You don't have a flat. You've had the car checked out at the shop and they found nothing. What could it be?

Eight ways your car radiator can cause your engine to overheat, plus troubleshooting tips.

How to remove and replace the driver's-side CV axle shaft and seal on most Toyota Camrys. Detailed instructions and plenty of photos. No special tools required.

This guide tells you how to troubleshoot the usual suspects and more when your engine won't crank over.

Car starter problems? Don't blame the starter motor yet. These 5 troubleshooting tips will help you find the culprit.

How to replace the timing belt and pulley yourself on the Hyundai Elantra and Kia Spectra. Step-by-step instructions, plenty of photos, and a video!

Hydraulic brake systems use the principles of hydraulics to amplify the driver's foot power to slow the vehicle. They use Department of Transportation (DOT) rated brake fluid.

If your car consumes more fuel than usual, find the culprit fast and stop throwing money at the gas pump.

The average automotive hobbyist can do a passable DIY seat repair to prevent further damage. My technique depends on whether the rip borders on a seam or not.

Are you having car-starting trouble other car issues and wondering whether your alternator is still good? Here's how to tell and how to rebuild or replace your alternator if it is in fact the culprit.

Check out my tips for installing 4-wire trailer wiring. It is easier than you think.

This is a guide to finding, cleaning or changing the MAF sensor on your Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro, Renault Trafic or Nissan Primastar van. This sensor is often the cause of low power, an inability to rev properly, and rough running. Follow this easy-to-follow guide to find out how to change it yourself.

One of the most nerve-wracking diagnoses that an engine can receive: blown head gasket. Dive into this article to learn the three most common signs your engines developed a bad head gasket.

If you smell gas inside your car, your first guess might be that there's a fuel leak, but here are five other very common reasons you might smell fuel.

Recognize bad fuel filter symptoms, improve engine performance, and avoid expensive repair bills.

Water leaking into a car can lead to mold, corrosion, computer issues, and bad smells. Water can leak into your passenger compartment from outside or inside the car, often from the windshield.

A picture walkthrough that shows how to change the spark plugs in the Toyota Sienna.

A guide to replacing the struts and shock absorbers in your car. What you need to be aware of and tips for a successful repair.

This guide shows you how to fix the exhaust pipe or muffler on the cheap.

There are common reasons for knocking noises in your car when driving over bumps, large and small. I will cover the five most common ones we see every day and explain how to check the components' integrity and condition.

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

How to replace the door glass, door glass guide, window regulator and window motor on a Camry. No special tools required. Most parts can be obtained from a salvage yard and transferred to your car.

This article will teach you exactly how to repair, fix, or replace a broken door handle in your car. Our example is to replace the interior car door handle in a 1998 Toyota Corolla. Enjoy!

Repair manuals for the Datsun/Nissan 720 series of trucks fail to mention the fuel pump relay—where to find it, what it does, how it's wired-in, and how to repair or replace it. Luckily for you, this article has the answers.

Having problems with your car's thermostat? This article shows you how to check your thermostat in a few minutes without removing it from your car.

Camry DIY How To replace burned out instrument cluster bulbs.

A DIY how-to on replacing the thermostat and temperature sensor on a Toyota Camry.

Got alternator problems? This guide shows you how to test an alternator in your car using a digital multimeter.

Knowing how to retrieve OBD trouble codes when the Check Engine light comes on will help you save time and money.

On the Chevrolet (GM) 3.1-l engine, intake manifold gaskets can fail and damage the cylinder heads. DIY replacing the gaskets and removing the heads is possible with the right tools and manual.

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.

DIY guide for installing a boost gauge and wiring in a VW MKIV Jetta, Golf GTI, or New Beetle.

Your DDEC 3 or DDEC 4 engine computer connects on one side to engine sensors and on the other side to vehicle sensors and controls. Here are the pinouts and signals for both connectors.

Maybe this article will help other folks with the same 4WD symptoms who’ve exhausted all the other possible solutions. Or, maybe it will just make you pull more hair out because it doesn’t help you at all. Hopefully the former. Keep in mind, I’m not a mechanic, as I’m sure you'll be able to tell.

How to remove and replace the fuel filter to help with rough idle, lack of performance, or low fuel pressure. These instructions are for VW MKIV, Jetta, GTI, and Audi A4.

Here's why your Camry's "Check Engine" light comes on and what the codes mean that it generates.

How to evacuate and recharge the AC system on a Toyota Sienna. Part III of a three-part article on servicing the AC on a Toyota Sienna.

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

Front end clunking noise when acceleration from a dead stop? Maybe a new front motor mount requires replacement.

In this article, you'll find step-by-step instructions for a Toyota or Lexus Fuel Pump replacement with photos. There are no special tools required, and it's relatively safe, easy, and not too time consuming.

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

A malfunctioning sensor can cause performance problems, turn on the "Check Engine Light" and fail an emission test. Testing a sensor is usually done with a DVOM. Test the ECT, TPS and pressure sensors

Recognizing symptoms of a bad EGR valve will help you troubleshoot potential problems sooner and restore engine performance faster.

A pictorial tutorial on changing the 12V battery in a 2004-2010 Toyota Prius. While more difficult than most cars, a Prius battery replacement is still within most homeowners abilities.

Replace the light bulb inside the climate control/heater knob in your MKIV, Jetta, Golf, Gti, Beetle, or Audi.

Transmission flush DIY for all VW cars on the MKIV platform using Pennzoil synchromesh. 17mm and specialty bit # XZN16MH are used depending if your car is a GLI 20th or standard MKIV.

How to bleed the brakes at home fast using a vacuum pump, plus tips and warnings.

There have been complaints of the EPS light going on suddenly or the power steering failing in Civics and Accords. What you can do if this happens to you.

Of all the faults the ZF 6HP automatic transmission can throw at you, the E Clutch fault is by far the hardest to determine the cause of.

Do you know how old the 12-volt battery is in your Prius? Think it needs replacing? Read on to find out how easy it is to perform a battery test without even breaking out a wrench!

How to replace a washer fluid pump on a 2006 BMW X3. Often these pumps begin leaking and must be replaced. Step-by-step instructions with pictures.

DIY How To Honda Accord / Acura CL Timing Belt and Water Pump Replacement - 4 Cylinder - F23

Check common sources of engine misfires using this friendly tip-filled guide.

AC systems remove heat and moisture using refrigerants such as R134a in a closed system. The pressurized refrigerant boils after a pressure drop using the heat from the cabin of the vehicle.

In this article, I will explain step-by-step how to replace a water coolant outlet (sometimes called a coolant air bleeder) on a 2006 to 2009 Dodge Charger with a 2.7L engine. This guide does not cover the RT, SRT, and SXT trims.

That serpentine belt noise could be more serious than you think. Troubleshoot your belt with the help of this guide and fix it.

Check your fuel pump relay — and other automotive relays — in minutes using three different simple methods.

Is your thermostat stuck? Photos, tests and helpful recommendations for the engine thermostat.

Learn how to test an EGR valve in a few minutes to confirm you actually need a new replacement.

This article provides you step-by-step instructions for replacing the upper strut mount and the stabilizer link on a 2002 Honda Odyssey. The repair method can also be applied to the Honda Pilot and the Acura MDX.

When testing fuel injectors for common problems, you don't need to be an expert or have expensive tools.

DIY instructions for cleaning or replacing the MAF (mass airflow) sensor in a VW Jetta, Golf, GTI, Passat, New Beetle, A4. Included are step-by-step pictures, part numbers, and tools required for the job.

How to replace worn rear suspension struts and springs on your Camry. Video included.

Diagnose engine backfires with this guide and prevent potentially serious engine damage.

This easy to follow illustrated guide explains exactly how to service your car or van at home. Save money and get the job done right. No problem!

How to do a timing belt replacement for the Toyota V6 Camry, Avalon, Solara, Sienna, HIghlander, Lexus ES300 and Lexus RX300. Video instruction, lots of photos, and step-by-step instructions.

Radiator stop leak should only be used in certain circumstances. Learn if this product might be right for you.

Testing spark plug wires to solve power loss, trouble starting, increase in gas consumption and other performance issues.

Check for cooling fan problems using this simple guide and tips.

How to replace burned-out bulbs on the '99-'01 Toyota Camry, and which bulbs to buy for which uses.

This article provides step-by-step instructions for replacing a broken exterior driver's side door handle on a Lexus ES300, which should also work on the very similar Toyota Camry.

Check these common sources of car vibration and noises and repair your car sooner.

If you think you may have rodents or mice living in your vehicle, here are a few tips on where to find their hiding places and how to evict them permanently!

Here is a way to take the cheap Bosch oxygen sensor #15718, made for Ford cars, and use it on your 2.0 L Volkswagen engine. This is an old trick on the MKIII engine but has not been tried on the MKIV.

Learn the main causes of a blown head gasket, and prevent your new gasket from suffering the same demise.

Find and fix a vacuum leak in your car in a few simple steps using simple tools.

You've fixed the issue which was causing your check engine light to turn on, but now it wont turn off! Try one or more of these approaches to get the light to go off and be sure your engine is ok.

DIY (Do it yourself) Toyota MZFE V6 Fuel Injector Replacement. Detailed instructions with plenty of step by step photos. Replacement method can be used in the Camry, Avalon, Sienna, ES300 & RX300.

If you have an oil drain bolt that is leaking or the threads are damaged beyond repair, you don't need to have the oil pan replaced—you just need a few tools, my recommended repair kit, and 30 minutes.

Learn how coolant loss happens, where to look for the leak, and what tests you can do at home to find the leak source faster.

Tips for replacing your Toyota Prius smart key battery, buying replacement keys for cheap, and tips for lost smart keys.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing a power steering pump on a GM small-block engine. High-resolution photos illustrate every step.

Three common brake noises I encounter every day: a grinding sound, a thumping from the rear, and a squeak. Includes a repair technique for noisy drum brakes that I found by trial and error.

If you're wondering why your car shakes when you hit your brakes, you more than likely have one or more warped rotors behind your wheels.

Does your Toyota erratically change steering direction? Do you notice thumping or a tugging sensation when accelerating from a slow speed and turning? New control arm bushings may be needed. Includes video!

Sources of engine rough idle problems and related symptoms for a faster diagnosis and repair.

Troubleshooting the sounds your car suspension makes can save you a small fortune. Before you spend a dime, read this first, and leave a comment for specific advice about your car.

Find out why your car battery discharges by applying these simple tests at home.

Is your engine hesitating during acceleration? Get to the source of the problem with this guide.

Learn how to test a fuel pressure regulator to save money and time in car repairs.

Replace a brake caliper at home using these steps and tips and a few simple tools.

Complete description of Case backhoe hydraulic cylinder repairs, rebuilding, and replacement, with step-by-step photos to guide you through the process.

Basic electrical knowledge applies to so many vehical components: batteries, starters, alternators, lighting, sensors, actuators, AC systems, electric windows, and computer systems.

Very simple do-it-yourself instructions for replacing the valve cover gasket on Volkswagen 2.0L AEG engines to help seal vacuum and oil leaks. Includes Jetta, Golf, and GTI.

In this article, I will explain the most common reason for a slipping automatic transmission and the most common reason for a slipping standard transmission. What's more, I'll teach you to fix it in either case.

Find the source of valve train noises and other symptoms using this simple guide.

A do-it-yourself battery replacement is a real money-saver but you also have to be responsible with the proper disposal of your old battery. There are 5 important factors in choosing a car battery: size, brand, reserve capacity (RC) rating, age, and cold-cranking amps (CCA) rating. The car battery is the power underneath the hood of your car. It provides electricity needed for door locks, sliding windows, lights, and other car accessories. Your car is dead, the moment your battery dies. At first

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.

This collection of repairs for Honda Harmony lawnmower transmissions is growing monthly. If your Harmony transmission has a problem, we probably have the solution!

When the rear end suspension of my GMC Envoy failed, I panicked. With the advice of a dear friend, I was able to order the parts I needed to get my SUV fixed affordably.

The transmission and cooling systems may need attention on Corvairs from 1960-69.

Do a cleaning EGR valve job at home to improve engine performance and prevent serious engine mechanical problems.

Learn what it means when the maintenance light begins flashing on your dashboard, and what you should do when it happens.

A comprehensive guide for repairing stripped bolt hole threads.

Find that parasitic battery drain that's causing your car battery problems whether you have a newer or older vehicle model.

Installing a front license plate is a cheap and easy DIY project you can knock out in minutes. The handful of dollars you spend on this project will avoid fines and wasted time in the future.

The symptoms of DTC P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction) are hard starting, high fuel consumption, and rough operation. Presented here is a procedure aimed at fixing this problem.

DIY for changing the valve cover, half moon seal, and cam tensioner gasket on VW Audi 1.8T, Jetta, GTI, or Golf A4. Great for polishing and fixing vacuum leaks.

My golf cart came to a sudden halt. My battery meter was fluctuating on and off. With some help, I managed to repair my broken battery terminal post. Here's how I did it.

P0300 random misfires can be hard to diagnose, leave you stranded and with an expensive repair bill, but this guide can help you.

Testing the voltage drop can help you find trouble spots in your starter circuit before you swap components unnecessarily.

Diagnose alternator and charging system problems with this practical guide to get your car back on the road faster.

Volkswagen diesel cars, such as the TDI, can experience a loss of power. Two items to check are computer-imposed "limp mode" and the MAF sensor.

Most impact torque wrenches are used for lug nuts on the wheels of a car. The varieties are cordless, 12-v outlet, corded and pneumatic. Fathers Day, Christmas, Birthday.

Match these common symptoms to your possible manual transmission issues for a faster diagnosis.

Test your vehicle catalytic converter in your own garage.

It is possible to cheat an emissions test to conceal catalytic converter faults. Oxygen sensors behind the converter can be tricked.

BMW X3/X5 Brake, ABS, and 4x4 warning lights all on at the same time. Information on the probable cause (defective BMW transfer case actuator motor gear) and fixes.

Figure out if your car battery is keeping your car from starting.

Common brake problems, such as a soft brake pedal, pulling to one side while braking, or vibration while braking can have serious implications for your car's health (and your health, in turn!). Learn more about the most common brake issues and their solutions, here.

Diagnose a water pump failure faster with these three simple step-by-step methods.

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

An explanation of the types of sensors found in an engine, including their typical functions and locations.

Are the brake lights on your Honda staying on even after you remove your foot from the brake pedal? The solution to this problem is simple, and costs less than five dollars in most cases.

Using a DVOM is an important tool to diagnose vehicle components, including batteries, starters, alternators, computer sensors and actuators, injectors, lighting and accessories like ABS and AC systems.

Test the throttle position sensor in a few minutes using a digital multimeter.

The 7-speed DSG has made many improvements over the older 6-speed variant, but it's not without its problems.

Ever wonder what the secret behind auto dealerships selling used cars is that makes the cars look good as new? This is the biggest part of it and now you will learn how to do it even better than they do—the pro way.

The GM 5L40-E is a popular transmission, but it is not without its faults. Here are some of the most common ones.

A low coolant level can mean a coolant leak. These methods help you locate hard-to-find leaks.

When your brake lights don't work, apply these simple diagnostic tests.

Learn about different problems that can occur with your car's electrical system.

Though old news, 6-speed DSG transmissions are still on the road in many vehicles. So let's look at some of the more common problems you might encounter with yours.

How to replace front-end strut mounts (and struts) on the '97–'01 Toyota Camry, with a video. Plus other causes of front-end noise.

Read and clear your car's "Check Engine" light codes through its OBD-II diagnostic port using a simple ELM327 Bluetooth reader, your Android phone, and the Torque Pro Android app.

Whether your car is hard to start when cold, hot, or both, this guide gives you tips and tests to help you fix your car sooner.

Ford Fusion owners: Beware if your A/C has stopped working! Ford had a genius idea to install a sensor in the top of the evaporator case. What does this mean to the owners of the Fusion?

This engine compression test will reveal your gasoline or diesel engine's mechanical condition. It's fast, cheap, and reliable.

Describes how to remove and replace a power steering pump from a small Massey Ferguson tractor. Complete with step-by-step photos and tips for complete repairs.

Does a rubber oil pan drain plug work? Not really. The self-threading piggyback oil pan drain plug cold welded in place is the answer!

This DIY provides the basic procedure for replacing the front hub and wheel bearing in a 2000-2011 Ford Focus, as well as other FWD cars, without removing the steering knuckle and without using a standing hydraulic press machine. Special tools are required.

Ten possible events that can trigger a "check engine" light in a Honda. Read the ten questions here; they will give you useful information that will help your mechanic diagnose the problem quickly.

This article with video shows you how to replace all the front torsion bar suspension components on a RWD '06 Chevrolet Tahoe.

Oil all over the engine compartment? Replacing the crankshaft seal may stop that.

Do it yourself (DIY) replacement of the timing belt, water pump, and oil seals on the 4-cylinder Toyota Camry and similar cars, with photos, lists of tools, and parts recommendations.

Solenoid problems can be very difficult to diagnose properly. Of all the electrical components in a car, the solenoid might be the least understood.

There are many reasons that your heater might be giving you the cold shoulder—literally. This article will cover the three most likely reasons why your heater is blowing cold air.

Car dents are unsightly things, and even a couple of small ones really depreciate the value of your car.

Learn how to recover and recharge an AC system, including a review of compressors, condensers, evaporators, accumulators, receiver driers, H-blocks, orifice tubes, and lines.

The four noises that car owners complain about most often: CV joint noise, water pump noise, belt noise, and heat shield noise. Find out what these noises mean and what might fix them.