DIY Auto Repair and Diagnosis

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Find out whether your car's temperature gauge is working right, discovering key symptoms and applying a few simple tests.

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

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.

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

Change a car battery without damaging electric components and prevent corrosion build up at the same time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

Identifying the type of noise and when it happens can help you diagnose your transmission problem.

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

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

Diagnose a potential seized engine and possible repairs.

DIY how to adjust the rear brakes on a Camry. No special tools required.

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

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.

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 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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Diagnose a stuck caliper and avoid a potential road accident.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Diagnose clutch drag and follow some simple steps that may help you correct clutch operation.

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.

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

Replacing a worn bushing on the sway bar (stabilizer bar) will eliminate a common rear end rattle in the '90s Camry.

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.

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.

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.

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

Choosing the right replacement car battery for your vehicle can be daunting. There are so many brands, manufacturers, and retailers out there that it can be difficult to know where to begin. Learn the 5 factors to consider when choosing an appropriate replacement battery for your vehicle.

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.

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.

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!

Use a digital multimeter (DMM) to test your MAF sensor before replacing it. Sometimes you won’t even need a multimeter.

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

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

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

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.

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

Test your vehicle catalytic converter in your own garage.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Know how to replace an oxygen sensor safely. A bad oxygen sensor will increase fuel consumption by up to 40%.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Depending on the type of engine you have, a broken timing belt can cause immediate and massive damage. It happened to me with no warning.

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.

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

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

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

A clicking starter is not a good sign, but those clicks can help you diagnose and fix the problem.

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.

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

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.

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.

A comprehensive guide for repairing stripped bolt hole threads.

Both sliding doors on my Dodge Caravan quit working. This is how I fixed them myself.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

How to remove and install an oxygen sensor in 4-cylinder Volkswagen compacts produced from 1993-1996.

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!

I see it every so often: When the tire rotation guy doesn't screw in the lug nuts by hand before using his impact driver, the next person who tries to remove the lug nuts has to use so much torque that the lug stud strips its threads or even breaks off.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

Distributor replacement and timing adjustment step-by-step.

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

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.

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

The common code P0101, whether from a gas or diesel engine, often points to the Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF), but there are other possibilities.

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.

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

Know your engine! This simple guide to what's under the hood of your car includes maintenance tips and pictures. Try the quiz at the end to see what you've learned!

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

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.

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.

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

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

How to test your alternator's voltage regulator to avoid replacing components unnecessarily.

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

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.

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.

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.

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. In addition, I've provided a video on how to replace a split CV boot if you want to avoid a complete axle replacement.

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.

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

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.

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!

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.

No Diagnostic Trouble Codes to help? Learn what potentially failed components or systems are causing engine performance problems.

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

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.

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

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.

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!

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!

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

Diagnose why your car dies while driving or at idle by looking at specific symptoms.

The starter uses the battery and battery cables to provide the power to crank over the engine. The starting system can be tested to find a slow-crank or no-crank problem.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

I didn't want to pay a fine for a burnt-out headlight, and I didn't want to pay someone else to replace it either. Here's how I did it, with some nuances that may help you.

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

This article shows you the steps involved in the replacement of a Honda Odyssey radiator. Removal of the front bumper fascia or A/C condenser is not necessary. Only basic tools required. Level of complexity is moderate.

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

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

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

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.

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!

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

Why is my car overheating? What can I do to fix it? There are many reasons why an engine might overheat, and many simple fixes for those problems.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

Edible not by humans but by rodents. This is a story about how our Prius's wiring harness was chewed by rodents...and it could happen to you as well.