DIY Auto Repair and Diagnosis

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Diagnose the most common problems with your car's starting system without special equipment or knowledge, based on the symptoms described here.

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.

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

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.

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

When your engine lopes, focus on those systems that are more likely to give you trouble.

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.

When your headlights stop working, follow this simple symptoms-based guide to make a faster repair.

How to adjust, test, or replace the neutral safety switch on your manual or automatic transmission.

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

Automatic transmissions are getting more and more clever, but how do they work?

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

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.

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.

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

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.

If your engine fires and coughs after it's been turned off, this guide helps you target the different systems and components you should pay attention to.

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!

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

Do an oil pan gasket replacement at home following the safety precautions, tips, and method outlined in this guide.

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

The braided hose that is connected to the fuel pressure regulator (FPR) is a common spot for vacuum leaks on 1.8T cars. Your FPR itself can also get clogged and stuck.

Troubleshoot an inductive or Hall effect type crankshaft position (CKP) sensor using a digital multimeter.

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

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

Often, car lighting problems require just an easy fix you can do in minutes.

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

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

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

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

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

The charging system consists of the alternator and the batteries. The alternator's task is to keep the batteries charged and produce enough amperage to run the vehicle.

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

Learn how to replace a timing belt and water pump on an Accord/Acura CL F23 2.3L I4 engine (w/ video). The replacement should be performed every 100,000 miles or 10 years; whichever comes first.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

DIY repair of the rear door handle, door latch, or door lock actuator. Detailed step-by-step photos and no special tools required. Save money doing it yourself.

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

This is a Camry DIY on how to replace a worn tie rod end without any special tools.

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

If you want to know how to increase horsepower, you're not alone. These are some simple engine modifications just anybody can do to their car.

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!

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.

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.

DIY Toyota Camry tuneup, plus PCV valve cleaning. Use iridium plugs for better fuel economy and performance. Also, if you notice an oil leak inside the spark plug tube, I have a video showing you how to fix it.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

DIY: How to replace the radiator on the Honda Accord and Acura CL (F23 engine). Lots of pictures.

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

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

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

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.

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!

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

If the air conditioning goes out in your car, you want to get it fixed quickly. There are a number of problems that could cause this issue. Keep cool with these tips and tricks.

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.

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

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

Replace the brake master cylinder in your own garage with this simple guide and suggestions.

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.

If you have disconnected your battery for any reason, then your Honda radio and/or navigation system will say "code" and not work. Here are three ways to get that code and how to make your system(s) work again.

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

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. The OEM fuel pump provider for Toyota and Lexus is Denso.

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!

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Do you know what to do in the event that you get in and turn your car on but it doesn't start? Check out this hub for some helpful tips on what to do.

A comprehensive guide for repairing stripped bolt hole threads.

Loss of air conditioning in your Chrysler Pacifica is usually a matter of inconvenience rather than a serious problem. I'll show you how to check refrigerant pressure and refill it for $25.

Know how to replace a fuel pump safely, whether it's an in-tank or inline fuel pump.

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

Your mechanic says you need a wheel bearing . . . what's that? In this article, you'll find pictures, videos and an explanation of what a wheel bearing is, what it does, where it is, and the noise it makes when it's damaged.

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

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

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.

Spark plug problems can be tricky to identify. The symptoms of faulty spark plugs are pretty general and can be attributed to a number of other issues. So read this article for tips and tricks on how to differentiate spark plug problems from other issues.

Diagnose engine knocking with the help of this simple guide before your engine suffers costly damage.

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.

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.

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

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.

Simple-to-follow instructions for repairing a spark plug wire that has been pulled off the clip.

How I used a "Save-a-Thread' thread tap kit to repair a blown-out spark plug in my customer's Ford Crown Victoria.

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

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

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

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.

Test your vehicle catalytic converter in your own garage.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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!

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!

You can change your car radiator yourself, whether you have an older or newer vehicle model.

Engine misses can be hard to diagnose, but you can start with the most likely sources to speed up your repair.

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.

Many Chrysler wipers made since the 1970s use plastic bushings as bearings. They wear out. Here's how to replace them.

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

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.

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

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.

This article details the steps involved in replacing the water pump and water pump gasket on a 2012 Ford Mustang V6. The same water pump is also used on the 2011-2014 Ford F150. Video included.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

How to find an oil leak in your car using a simple strategy to save you time and money.

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

Use a vacuum gauge to find car mechanical problems faster at a low cost.

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.

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.

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!

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

The important function of a working PCV valve, how it works, signs that it's failing, and how to test.

This simple-to-follow guide will help you locate a car electrical short using a test light and a digital multimeter.

How to replace your car water pump at home successfully with a step-by-step procedure and tips to make it last longer.

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

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

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

The VW diesel (TDI) engine is one tough engine capable of going 500,000 miles when maintained. However, it does have issues.

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.

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.

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

Find out why your car stalls and get tips to fix the problem yourself.

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.

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.

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.

Diagnose a potential seized engine and possible repairs.

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.

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?

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

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.

How to troubleshoot a mass airflow sensor in a few simple steps, what to look for, and how to interpret your results.

My new Jetta MKIV 2.0L had some serious brake issues going on. But they were easier to fix than I thought they would be.

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!

DIY how-to instructions, with photos, for replacing the head gasket, timing belt, water pump and radiator on a Honda Accord. The repair pictured here was done on a Honda F23 2.3L I4 engine, the engine also used in the '98-'99 Acura CL, '98 Odyssey, and '98-'99 Oasis.

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

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

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!

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.

Fix your car's electrical open by looking for the most common faults, using simple tests and tools.

I mentioned losing a battery in our Club Car EZGO electric golf cart at my "How to repair a broken battery terminal". That repair didn't last long; I soon had to buy a new battery.

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!

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

This video and procedure shows how to replace the front suspension upper control arm and ball joint, strut, and lower control arm and lower ball joint on a Honda Accord.

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

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

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

The cause of car vibrations can be difficult to pinpoint because of the vast number of potential causes. But if you car vibrates only when accelerating, you may have a CV joint issue. Address it and you won't be afraid to drive your car again.

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

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

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.

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.

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

DIY how-to Toyota Camry power steering fluid replacement.

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.

A guide to changing the brake pads on a VW Touran. The information that follows applies to many of the VW, Audi, SEAT, Skoda range of vehicles.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.