Where to Find the Free Online Auto Repair Manual You Need?

If you need an online auto repair manual that can help you precisely fix your problem, the internet has an incredible amount of car care information. What you won't find however, is a Chiltons or a Haynes auto repair manual, because they're copyrighted material. You don't need them anyway, because there are a lot of good car repair web sites with individual pages or articles that can solve your specific problem.

In fact, you'll find articles on all kinds of car fix and vehicle maintenance topics, such as

auto body repairs

automatic transmission replacement

bleeding brakes

car audio systems fix

changing oil

finding the causes for a bearing failure

how to install a replacement ignition system

how to upgrade an exhaust system

troubleshooting car stalling

troubleshooting car starting problems and much more.

Here is a good place to search for vehicle fix manuals: Go to the search site at 10w40.com and type in the problem you want to solve - and the likehood of finding the instructions you need is high. On this website you can also post your problem on an advice and discussion board, and get your problem solved almost instantly by an expert in this repair field or by an ordinary person who has experienced your problem and solved it already or might know where to go to get the answer you need. And it doesn't cost you a cent.

There are many other good websites where you can get an online auto repair manual that will fit your needs. Go to google.com and type in [the problem you want an answer to]+repair manuals, and you should find lots of valuable vehicle repair resources that might solve your problem.

Car and Truck Alternators

Has your vehicle's alternator failed? Are you absolutely certain that it isn't your battery or starter? Determining which part has failed is essential toward avoiding unnecessarily replacing something that hasn't failed, like your battery. Let's take a look at some steps you can take to determine that your alternator, in fact, has bit the dust.

If you own an alternator testing machine, you can test to see whether your car's alternator is charging correctly. For most people this isn't practical as few motorists own such an expensive piece of equipment. For everyone else, there is a practical way for you to easily check to see if your alternator is working properly:

Connect a volt meter to your car's battery
Start your car
Observe the voltage output on the volt meter so that you can make an accurate determination.

If there is an increase in voltage when you start your car, then your alternator is more than likely working just fine. Likely, you battery is the culprit; check the battery itself and the connections to make a final determination.

If there is no increase in voltage, you are likely looking at having to replace your alternator.

The next step, of course, is to determine whether you will replace the alternator yourself or have someone else do the job. Some things to keep in mind as you weigh your options include:

If you trust your vehicle to a mechanic, what will the total cost of the work be including the part and labor? Is there a guarantee?
If you decide to do the work yourself, do you have all the tools on hand to get the work done? Do you own a repair manual? Do you want to purchase a new alternator or will a remanufactured unit suffice?

Your choices today are much greater than they were ten years ago, before internet shopping became a strong factor in reigning in high auto parts prices. Several online wholesalers, including the Auto Parts Warehouse, are in business to sell auto parts directly to you. Costs are generally much lower than local retail establishments and parts are from well known manufacturers, names you can trust in the business.

Doing the work yourself can save you time and money as well as give to you a sense of accomplishment. With a trusty repair manual at your side you can replace your vehicle's alternator quickly and accurately.

A Perfect Choice For Your Second House

When you consider the road as your home, the word "quality" takes on new grandness. People want to spend more times with their families and to be in control of their travel plans. The camping experience is about getting out to the great outdoors, spending some quality time with family and friends, and avoiding the acts of day-to-day life. Going outdoors and communing with nature seem to be one of the solutions, which can be greatly attained by motorhome traveling.

An RV is a shortened form that is used to describe a recreational vehicle. A recreational vehicle often called as a mini mobile house, is fairly commodious to meet the day to day conveniences like bed, refrigerator, television, etc which you enjoy at home. A recreational vehicle generally refers to a dual-purpose vehicle, which can be used as a temporary or a full time home and a motorhome. Typical RVs contains beds, table, storage areas and food preparations. Larger RVs comes with more modern amenities. The whole intention of buying RVs is mainly for recreational purposes.

Hundreds of thousands of RV fancier each month look for products and services to add on their recreational vehicles. Motorhomes are also very popular and are preferred by many for a number of reasons. Comfort and hassle-free journey top the priority list of anyone who plans a vacation or an outing. The manner of traveling got revolutionized with the invent of RVs. It's a perfect example for the old saying "home away from home."

If you are interested in buying a new or used motor home soon, it is perhaps wise to begin by examining their different types. Check out the motorhome vehicles' categories, in order to consider which one will better cover your present or future needs. There are three basic types of motorhomes, also called recreational vehicles which are generally used for vacating purposes; hence the term "recreational." Class A motorhomes consists of bus-type custom body vehicles build on a truck chassis and look like busses. Class B motorhomes are mainly van campers and travel trailers, while finally Class C RVs are called mini-motorhomes and due to their smaller size are much easier to handle on the road and fit nicely in large car parking spots. Each class has its own advantages for the individual buyer depending on a few factors including how many people will be using the RV and how it is going to be used.

RVs are like mini apartments and are available in various styles and price ranges. Some of the motorhomes are inexpensive where as few are very expensive. With the growing years, motorhomes have become more comfortable and more luxurious since the release of the first RV.

RV and motorhomes with its plush interiors, warm and cozy ambience, always draw attractions to people. Motorhomes are the ideal form of travel for those who like to spend their vacation time going camping in the mountains, running on the beach, or sightseeing along the highways and byways. So get hold of a new RVs and motorhomes and be a proud owner of it. Choose your recreational vehicle, which has innovative design, and quality construction to enable you to get the most out of your camping experience, while you get the most for your money.

Does it Make Sense to Rebuild Your Auto Engine?

Is the engine in your car or late model truck worth rebuilding? Is the time, trouble and expense worth it or should you check one of other alternatives available to you such as a used engine, a full or partial professional rebuild or a factory service like rebuild - many of which now are being done offshore and being shipped back to U.S. automotive consumers?

The do it yourselfer is faced with these options to evaluate when it comes to the dreaded time of a potential engine overall. Most likely you have gotten a good number of relatively trouble free services from your automotive engine and are now faced with the prospect of an engine overhaul. The decision to replace the engine bloc, piston, connecting rod assemblies as well as crankshaft depends on a number of factors, with the number one consideration being the condition of the engine block. Other considerations are cost, ready access to machine and auto shop facilities, parts availability, time required to complete the project and finally the extent of prior mechanical experience on the part of the do-it-yourselfer home auto mechanic.

Next consider the value of the vehicle. It has turned out that frequently the total end cost of the parts required to complete the task of rebuilding the engine is greater and more than the actual value of the vehicle. It can be said that often ego and pride of ownership gets in the way of a fair and true evaluation of the situation, its costs and reasonable conclusions on the suitability of the project at all. As a case in point one proud owner of what might be considered a truck that was long past its prime and in great need of repair convinced himself that expensive repairs were in order by himself when a quick tour of local area junkyards should of convinced that the truck itself could be replaced by any of the similar vehicles that were laying about these auto parts recycling facilities.

In such situations where the cost for a full engine overhaul is greater than the cost of a full and proper engine rebuild one option to consider is a used engine from one of above auto junk yards. True the engine may not have the full engine life of a rebuilt engine but there may be more than enough lifespan in one of these replacements which come at a much lower cost and may indeed outlive the body components and lifespan of the vehicle itself. In addition most of the professional auto parts recycling shops will both have tested and warranty the engine for a reasonable initial automobile test and evaluation time period.

It can be said that the vehicle may seem to have great value to you. The question to ask is "If I sink in this money and time of a full rebuilt engine will anyone pay me more for my vehicle or if I sell this vehicle will I get my money back?" The answer is usually "Probably not". However it can be said that devil you know is better than the devil you do not. You will have a vehicle whose history and maintenance background is well known to you. You will know the quirks and characteristics of the vehicle - of what to expect and what repairs as well are upcoming. Thus said sinking money and time into rebuilding your engine or engine block may make good sense to you overall in the end.

Auto Repair Information - What Source is Best?

When looking for automotive repair information, you will find that there are numerous different sources you can use. There is the old standby, the OE factory service manual, but is it always the best resource for auto repair information? What about the aftermarket manuals from Haynes, Chilton, or others? Computers and the internet provide many more sources, such as subscriptions to AllDataDIY, Mitchell's e-AutoRepair, and online forums.

So where is the best place to go for auto repair information? The answer is that there is no simple answer! Each of these sources has advantages and disadvantages, and each has its own place. The answer will depend on your knowledge and experience, what type of information you are looking for, and sometimes it is actually helpful to have access to two or three different resources.

The OE factory service manual for the most part is written for the professional technician that has been trained in automotive repair. A certain level of knowledge, experience, and access to special tools is assumed. That is not to say that it is not useful for the average car owner that does his or her own repairs, because in certain cases there is no substitute. I find the factory service manuals frustrating at times, because it can be difficult to locate specific information. But, they usually have the most complete, comprehensive, and detailed automotive repair information that is available.

Aftermarket repair manuals such as those from Haynes or Chiltons are geared more towards the average car owner with a do-it-yourself mindset. In most cases, they are perfectly adequate if you are doing mechanical repairs. Where I have found them lacking is in the computer diagnostics and automatic transmission repair areas. Of course, your average do-it-yourself car owner my not be attempting these repairs anyway. One of the advantages to these manuals are that they have lots of photos, which many other resources (including the factory manuals) are lacking.

A subscription to AllDataDIY or Mitchell e-AutoRepair provides you with the exact same auto repair information that many independent auto repair shops use. Yes, it is geared towards the professional, but it is searchable and much easier to navigate through than a factory service manual. These are probably the best all-around sources for general repairs. They still leave out some things that are covered in the factory service manuals, but go much more in-depth than the aftermarket repair books.

Online forums can be a very valuable tool when you have a specific car repair questions or a problem you can't solve. Many have a ton of people with real-world experience with similar vehicles that will bend over backwards to help out a fellow car owner. You do have to be careful, though, because you really don't know the knowledge level of the person that may be answering your question. Sometimes it is possible to get bad advice from someone that really doesn't know what they are talking about, or is mistaken about something but is honestly trying to help.

As I said earlier, sometimes it is helpful to have more than one auto repair info source for certain repairs. Case in point: I recently replaced a convertible top myself rather than pay someone else to do it. When I was trying to get the new top installed, I had a factory service manual, two aftermarket repair manuals, the instructions that came with the top, and a step-by-step tutorial with photos that I found online, and I used every one of them at one point or another!

Each of these auto repair information resources has value. If I could personally only have one source, it would be the factory service manual, but I am a certified ASE Master Technician. For the dedicated do-it-yourselfer, I think a subscription to AllDataDIY or Mitchell e-AutoRepair is the best all-around source. If all you want to do is replace a timing belt or do a brake job and you don't mess with computer diagnostics, then an aftermarket repair manual may be your best bet. The online forums and question/answer services are great places to turn to when you get stuck.

Car Fuel System Repairs

A car would be stranded without a fuel system. Before experiencing this bad situation, learning some repairing techniques might be helpful. One might want to learn repairs for an automotive fuel system. A car's fuel system is based on either a carburetor or a fuel-injection system. The car service manual can tell which one is present.

Carburetor Replacement
The carburetor is a vital part of a car's power system since cars first drank or guzzled gas. To replace a carburetor, follow this simple guide:

1. Open the car's hood and find the carburetor. It is under a metal part known as the air-filter housing. The large hose has to be disconnected and remove the nut from the housing.
2. After seeing the carburetor, the throttle linkage and carburetor fuel line has to be disconnected.
3. Now the carburetor has to be removed. Many cars would require removing a couple of nuts at the edges.
4. The gasket between the intake manifold and the carburetor has to be removed. You must rub it off if it's stuck.
5. Rebuild or buy the carburetor. Rebuilding a carburetor means to take it apart, drench its parts in a cleaner, re-assembling the parts and then adjusting them by following the kit instructions.
6. Now put in the rebuilt or new carburetor in a reverse way in how it was taken out. Install the new carb, new gasket, attach the lines, a new air-filter housing and then the earlier one.
7. Finally, the carburetor can now be adjusted by following directions in the service manual.

Repairing Fuel-Injection
Fuel-injection systems are simpler as compared to carburetion systems. For proper working of the car, they may need sporadic repair or replacement. Throttle-body and multiport are the two most common types of fuel-injection systems nowadays. A throttle-body fuel-injection system is comparable to a carburetor while a multipart fuel-injection system controls the fuel distribution electronically.

To repair fuel-injection systems, follow this simple guide:

1. First, the pressure has to be relieved in the fuel system because fuel-injection systems are pressurized. The procedure is mentioned cars service manual or an aftermarket manual. Normally the filler cap on the fuel tank is removed and the specified pressure reliever is loosened.
2. The manufacturer's directions have to be followed for testing, repairing or replacement of components. Sometimes, a system can be simply fixed by tracing down all the wires and hoses.
3. In case the car's fuel-injection system is repaired within a reasonable time and cost, one should not try to act superior.

Repairing Fuel Tank and Fuel Line
For repairing fuel tanks and fuel lines, follow these steps:

1. Inspect the car's fuel tank and fuel lines and look for little wet spots. Touch them with a touch and sniff it to see if it is gasoline. If it is, then find other leaks and it should be repaired or replaced.
2. For repairing the fuel tank, buy an external or internal fuel tank sealer and apply it. External sealers are easily applied to the external holes of the engine and internal sealers seal all seen and hidden holes.
3. For replacing the fuel tank, it has to be depressurized first. Then draw off the fuel from the tank into gas cans. Separate the fuel tank from the output fuel line and inlet pipe. Take out the straps that attach the fuel tank to the car, Replace it with a re-built or new replacement tank.
4. For repairing a fuel line, it should be first determined how much replacement it needs. A rusted fuel line will quickly entice other holes and must be replaced while a damaged line can be repaired. A rubber fuel line which has a leak is probably old and needs to be replaced completely. A straight fuel line along with some flaring and bending tools would have to be purchased to fit it in the car.

Fuel Pump Repair
For repairing the fuel pump, follow this short guide:

1. Locate the fuel pump, the car service manual guides in pinpointing it.
2. Test it by removing the fuel lines from the pump. Use Vise-Grip pliers for clamping a rubber input line or use a cap or a wad of putty for a metal line. Check the fuel pump output pressure and volume.
3. For removing the fuel pump, remove its mounting bolts. Disconnect any electrical wiring. Draw off any gas present in the fuel pump. Be cautious and don't smoke while working.
4. The fuel pump has to be replaced with the one which has the same output. The car's specifications tell about the volume and pressure produced by the fuel pump.

Used Cars For Sale By Owner

Thinking of selling your car? You have two options: you can either sell it through a dealer who will make the transaction on your behalf or sell it personally. If you have the time and know-how, it is definitely wiser to opt for the second option.

The Benefits of "Car for Sale by Owner" Strategy

Selling your car yourself has two very obvious benefits. First, you will be able to highlight the good features of your car to the prospective buyers. You can also answer all the prospective buyer's questions more adequately and accurately than any dealer ever can. Nobody knows your car like you do.

Second, you will be able to save yourself an incredible amount of money that would have been your dealer's commission. If, for example you sell a car for $15,000 through a dealer, the dealer will take at least three percent of the amount - that's at least $450. There are even dealers whose commission rates go up to six percent. Instead of the dealer earning money from selling your car, why not take it for yourself? With a little extra effort and know-how, you can sell your car successfully on your own and pocket some extra money.

Some Tips Before Selling

Assess your car's worth carefully before you determine its price. Take note of the mileage, external and internal damage, frequency of oil changes, and repair history.

Negotiating is the same as playing the game of poker; it is important that you do not show your emotions. The buyer can sense if you are desperate and may use it to try to buy your car for a very low price. Explain to the buyer how well you've taken care of your car, how good its condition still is, and how many years he or she can still use the car without problems. Be firm on your price, especially if you know that it is fair.

Know How Labor Charges Are Calculated

There is a uniform way that auto repair shops use to figure out what to charge you for work done to repair your car. Repair facilities use a standardized table, the Mitchell Standardized Labor Rates Table, for fee calculations. Keep reading to learn how labor charges are calculated whether for your own use as a shop owner or in order to help you budget your own upcoming car repairs.

There is more to it than just figuring out how long a job took to complete. You may think that every specific detail of a vehicle's repair and maintenance must be taken into account to arrive at a definite time of job completion. That's not the case here. When mechanics work on your car they don't look at the clock for each single minute. Auto repair shops utilize a listing matching the type of repair work needed with an estimate of how long it should take to complete the work. So whether your mechanic is extra efficient or new on the job, they will still charge the same number of hours for labor on your car.

The Mitchell table. Know what the Mitchell table means. With Mitchell Standardized Labor Rates Table you discover on average, how long it will take a mechanic to complete any and all repairs on every make and model of vehicle. There is an online directory to arrive at this standardized rate, or they can look at a labor rate chart. As an example, take a brake replacement job on a 2000 Camaro, the flat rate is 2.6 hours of work no matter where the business is located or who works on it.

So how do shops make a profit? The Mitchell table gives average times for job completion but it does not account for all circumstances. If mechanics are fast, a Camaro brake job probably won't take 2.6 hours. If the job is done quicker, the customer will still get charged for 2.6 hours of labor, but the shop makes the extra money. Think of it this way, a mechanic could woark an 18-hour day in just 8 hours, if efficient. This is where is can be really lucrative.

The other side of the coin. Think about this though - the new kid does the brakes on the Camaro, and it takes him four hours, but it doesn't matter because the shop can still only charge us 2.6 hours worth of labor, according to the Mitchell table.

Charges will still worked out differently, even with a standard labor chart. Generally customers appreciate this approach to pricing car repairs, but can be surprised at the difference in repair bills for exactly the same labor at different auto shops. This is where the labor rates at each specific shop differ. It may be $85 an hour for labor in one auto shop and $55 an hour at another. For a Camaro brake repair, the cost will be hugely different for the same labor time - $221 versus $143. this makes a big difference in the overall price for vehicle repairs, even when the labor charges are calculated in the same way (using the standard Mitchell table).

Car Repair - Pinpointing the Source of Abnormal Sounds

An unlikely car repair tool for the do-it-yourselfer is a stick or piece of wood much like a yardstick. It won't help you fix much of anything, but it can help you pinpoint the source of abnormal noise in your car engine.

Here is how it works. Any abnormal noise is a type of vibration. An object like a rigid stick will transmit vibration over its length, so you can use it as a sort of stethoscope to identify sources of trouble in your engine compartment. It's not especially comfortable to use, but it works.

To use this homemade stethoscope, simply place one end of the stick on suspected sources of vibration (while the engine is running) and place the other end up against your ear. Gently press closed your ear opening with a blunt end of the stick and your closed ear will act much like a speaker, allowing the sounds to be transmitted to your ear drum so you can determine the location and nature of the noise.

By placing the stick against your closed ear, you block out distracting noises of the engine and focus only on noises that produce vibration in proximity of the stick. You'll be amazed at how clearly you can hear things like bearings, push rods, valve lifters and rocker arms - anything that is moving, clicking, rubbing or slapping up against something else.

Using this technique for diagnosing the nature of car repair through sounds helps you pinpoint the source of trouble and obviates removal and internal visual inspection to diagnose the nature of the problem.

A word of caution: be very careful while placing the stick against engine components as it can be harmful to you if it gets caught up in the fan blades, fan belts or other moving parts of the engine.

The best approach is to put the stick in place first and then position it on the outside of your ear. This allows you to see where you're placing the stick so you can avoid moving parts.

Repair Credit Rating - Used Car Loans Easily Accessed With a Repaired Credit Rating

You are driving to work when you hear a clunk in your engine. Your car stops and refuses to start. You hail a cab to get to your office and get your car checked by a mechanic. Your mechanic tells you something that makes you think of only one thing- I need to repair credit rating as early as possible.

What did your mechanic say? You were probably informed that you will have to go in for a replacement automobile. Since new automobiles are out of the question, you will have to go in for a used car. You probably don't have sufficient cash in hand to pay for a used car. You probably have to go in for a used car loan.

With your credit cards maxed and repayments being made on an irregular basis, you will find it very difficult to get affordable used car loans. Your lender will probably require a very high down payment and will continue to charge high interest rates because of your poor credit rating. You will either have to put your finances under a lot of strain or you will have to go in for a less expensive used car.

Why don't you take the third alternative and improve your finances? Why don't you repair credit rating so that you can qualify for affordable loans?

Take a look at your credit history and credit rating to determine whether you are a safe bet or not. This rule applies to all lenders including those offering loans for used cars. You should try to repair your credit rating by going in for the advice of professionals as early as possible. Trying to repair credit rating because you want to qualify for affordable loans a few months or a few years from now and doing so because you want to qualify for affordable loans immediately are two different things.

In case of the latter option, you will have to take remedial actions immediately. Not only do you need credit relief but you also need it with the immediate effect. This means that the advice of professionals would prove very useful.

Next, you should plan ahead and focus on repayment of the car loan in a prompt manner. If you get an affordable car driven but if you are not in a position to repay the debt on time, chances are high that your credit score will continue to fall and you will continue to pay high interest loans.

Car Repair Coupons - 4 Types of Repairs to Save On

Car repair coupons are essentially like free money. Every car needs a certain amount of regular maintenance and repairs: oil changes and tune ups to keep it running its best, and replacement parts such as tires, brakes, batteries, and alternators as the old parts wear out. Since you already have to pay for these repairs anyway, these should be used to knock the cost of regular maintenance down a little.

Car repair coupons can be found in a lot of different places. Local auto repair shops often place advertisements and coupons in local newspapers, magazines, and other publications. Online coupon sites, such as Valpak are also a great resource for coupon clippers. Finally, many shops send out their own mailings or post their current specials right on their website. Here are the four types you are most likely to find.

1: Oil changes are the most frequent type of maintenance cars need. By about three thousand miles, the oil and oil filter in your engine start to wear out. Replacing the oil and filter regularly keeps your engine running smoothly, prevents harmful buildup inside your engine, and even helps to maintain optimal gas mileage. Dirty oil, on the other hand, creates buildup that can damage the engine, leads to dried-out and leaky seals and gaskets, and creates more resistance on the engine as it thickens -- causing your fuel bill to increase too.

Since oil changes are needed so frequently, there are tons of auto repair shops and quick lube places ready to compete for your business. Because of this, shops almost always include a coupon for a discounted oil change.

2: Tune Ups. After oil changes, tune ups are the next most common repair that car owners have to do: Tune ups typically should be done once a year, or every twenty or thirty thousand miles, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations. A tune up typically includes replacing the air filter, the spark plugs, PCV valve, and the distributor cap and rotor; some parts only need to be replaced every two or three years, such as the oxygen sensor and the spark plug wires. The mechanic will also visually inspect the car's various systems to make sure everything is functioning correctly.

All of the potential replacements can make tune ups very expensive, particularly if the mechanic finds something wrong. Auto shops will give you a discount on at least the basic tune up, so that if something else turns out to be wrong, at least the bill won't hit you quite as hard.

3: Wheel alignment is another one of those things that you should have checked regularly. Most auto repair shops offer an inexpensive wheel alignment check that will tell you if you need your wheel alignment done. Proper wheel alignment produces the least amount of rolling resistance on your car, ensuring that you get the optimum gas mileage; it also causes the entire tread of the tires to make contact with the road as you drive, which spreads the wear out along the entire tread and helps your tires to last longer.

With the expensive but very precise equipment most repair shops use these days, wheel alignments can be pretty expensive. To compete with one another for your business, many repair shops will issue alignment coupons periodically, often offering a significant discount off the normal price.

4: New Tires. With the length of the average commute these days, most people end up needing to buy new tires every couple of years. Since tires can be pretty expensive, many tire shops and service centers send out mailings and print them in local papers. If you know you will need tires soon, be on the lookout for these coupons.

There are many other types of car repair coupons than the four listed above. These are just the most common. You'll notice as you hunt for coupons that you also find some for replacement windshields, bodywork, and even general repairs. In fact, it's not uncommon to find a coupon from an auto repair shop that simply states dollars off for any repair work made over a certain amount spent. You'll find that looking for discounts is like an Easter egg hunt. The coupons are all right there under your nose; you just have to look for them.

Choosing an Auto Upholstery Repair Shop

To some people, a car is like a second home on wheels. It has all the amenities: air conditioning, music, and nice comfortable seats.

Yeah, the seats. They can really make the car comfortable. And then there are the floor mats and the other parts of the car's cabin.

But what happens when something happens to the inside of your car? What happens when your auto upholstery tears, rips or is stained? Well, you take your car to a good auto upholstery repair shop. There are plenty of these shops. Here's what you should know before choosing one.

Because it takes a lot of time and effort to repair seat covers, tops, and car upholstery, many shops may increase their prices. Also, for the same reason, many shops may take shortcuts when it comes to quality.

So you have to be careful. Auto upholstery isn't necessarily an easy business. But It's necessary. Everyone loves to have great looking auto upholstery.

Since many shops can cut costs and quality, it's important to know that auto upholstery is all about precision. It takes detailed work to determine the right fit and look for your car.

Furthermore, often there are certain materials that go into the making of the material that covers your car's seats. Many of the cars driven today use dense foam as a batting for the car seats. This foam makes the seats last a long time.

You want to look for an auto upholstery repair shop that can give you a selection of densities and chemical compositions.

You also want to make sure the person who will be working on your seat covers, top or auto upholstery is very knowledgeable about the work he or she will be doing. Take the time to question that person about the materials and chemicals that go into making the batting for the seats. Ask the person if they know how to work with the make and model of your car.

And while it's true that 'you want to consider costs when choosing an auto upholstery repair shops, you don't want to skimp on quality. That means you may want to take the time to really compare auto upholstery repair shops. Get a real feel for what a few shops have to offer its customers.

Lastly, if you have any stains in your car, discuss them with an auto upholstery repair shop owner. That way you'll know what kind of cleaning supplies or dry cleaning services they have on hand. Since dry cleaning can increase the price of auto upholstery services, you'll have a better idea of what to expect if you discuss your stain issues upfront. Then compare prices for the different repair shops.

Do It Yourself Auto Repair: What You Need To Know

This article answers some of the questions asked
by car owners or would be Do It Yourselfers on Do It
Yourself Auto Repair.

What is DIY or Do It Yourself Auto Repair:
This is a maintenance system where a vehicle owner carry
out specific repair works on his/her car. The repair
work can be major or minor.

Can anybody carry out Do It Yourself Auto
Repair: Yes, anybody old enough to own a car, and
calm - headed enough to follow some sets of repair
instructions can successfully carry out Do It Yourself
Auto Repair.

It does not require deep knowledge of engineering
or mechanism, just the ability to believe in yourself
and follow instructions.

What are the requirements for Do it yourself auto
repair: The following are the basic requirements,
which may be more, depending on the repair job to be
done.

A good auto repair manual.
Set of tools.
Auto parts for replacement.
Calmness and determination.
Time.

From manual you can get all the requirements and the
procedures.

Where Can Do It Yourself Auto Repair be carried out:
Anywhere there is space. preferably in a place where
there is privacy and where you are shielded from
sun, rain, etc.

Can I get help for Do It Yourself Auto Repair jobs when
I needed one: Yes you can get a real life help if you
register with a good auto repair site and/or auto repair
forum for car owners.

There you meet car owners like yourself sharing their
experiences in Do It Yourself Auto Repair job and their
failures too, you learn a lot and avoid many pitfalls.
What are the benefits of Do It Yourself Auto Repair: you
stand to gain a lot in Do it Yourself Auto Repair, Some
benefits includes:

Reduction in repair and maintenance cost.

Self Satisfaction in carrying out your repair works.
Better understanding of your car system and operations.
Opportunity to meet/chart with other car owners,
share ideas and gain from their experiences.
Ability to gain total control over your car.

The total benefit of Do it Yourself Auto Repair cannot
be generalized it depends on where an individual is
starting from and his background knowledge. You really
see it when you start.

What is the rate of success in Do It Yourself Auto
Repair: The rate of success figure is not constant, for
it depends on individual knowledge and what he has

committed to it.

But a lot of people have been recording
success, this you can find out in DIY forum sites. even
people that started as a complete novice.

The important things to hold to record success is,
having the right tools equipment and starting/doing your
Do it Yourself Auto Repair jobs rightly. This I can show

you.

You may have many more questions not answered here, but
you don't need to know all answers before you start,
just a step-by-step guide. if others have been doing it
then you can do it.

Why not start right now.

My Experience Using Seized Car Auctions

In my experience I have found that a lot of people are intimidated by seized car auctions. I usually try to allay those fears. There is nothing to be afraid of a car auction. You should not feel like you have to hold back perhaps because you are not entitled to go. This attitude I found in many people. But generously I think I'm writing this article to help people to use vehicle auctions. So to do this I would like to give you my experience going to car auctions. I'd also like to explain how they help me. Perhaps this will help you to get a good viewpoint of car auctions.

The first time that I used a vehicle auction I was looking for a 1999 Honda Accord. I can't recall the exact price that I was finding at car dealerships and in classified ads. It was somewhere in the neighborhood of $10,000. I knew I could never afford to pay that much for that car. I needed to find something different. That's one of friend help me find repo auctions in my area to attend. I was a little like you, not sure what to expect.

How shocked I was to find the exact car I wanted flying off the holding lots for at least half off the price that they were going for at dealerships and in the classified ads. My eyes grew bigger. I had found what I was looking for! By the end of the day I had a Honda Accord for about $3000. It was in 1999 model just like I wanted and red.

This really opened my eyes to car auctions. So I decided to go again to buy another car. My intention this time was to resell it. So I got a similar vehicle, a Toyota Camry. I ended up selling that car to my cousin that next week at a price that he thought I was losing money on. Actually earning $3000 on that sale! So from then on I have used car auctions to make a living.

Auto Air Conditioning Repair 101

When your car or truck A/C is not blowing "cold air", the first thought is to panic. $$$$ signs are going through your mind. Your A/C is broken and the repair is going to be expensive. This article takes the mystery out of automotive air conditioning and serves as a primer so that you can make common repairs yourself and save MONEY on professional repairs.

A/C Principles

There are books and publications that contain volumes of information on the subject of air conditioning repair. This information is often too technical for the you to learn how-to fix your auto air conditioning system.

In the nutshell, here is all that you need to know about the fundamentals of refrigeration so that you can fix your auto air conditioning system yourself.

Air conditioning is the process in which air inside the passenger compartment is cooled, dried, and circulated. Heat is removed from inside the vehicle and transferred to the outside air.

All air conditioners whether, it is an auto A/C, household refrigerator or home HVAC, work on the same principles. Namely, a liquid refrigerant is changed to a gas and then back to a liquid. If a change-of-state of the refrigerant is to take place, heat transfer must take place. The two (2) rules that apply to refrigerant are:

1. Refrigerant in a gaseous state collects, absorbs, and holds heat.
2. Refrigerant in a liquid state releases that heat.

A/C Operation and Components

For your auto A/C to blow "cold air", R-134A refrigerant must pass through and change state in three (3) components, one (1) receiver-dryer, and one (1) expansion valve that makes up the closed auto air conditioning system. The components of the system are:

1. Compressor - A device that pressurizes the heated refrigerant..

2. Condenser - A radiator for refrigerant that transfers the heat that was absorbed in the passenger compartment to the cooler air.

3. Evaporator - Is a small radiator located under dash in the passenger compartment. Liquid refrigerant entering the evaporator creates a pressure loss. The liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the air blowing across the evaporator. It then boils and changes state to vapor before it enters the suction port of the compressor.

4. Receiver-Dryer - Is a canister that stores the liquid refrigerant when the compressor is not running. It contains a desiccant that removes moisture from the system.

5. Expansion Valve - Is a metering device that controls the amount of refrigerant to the evaporator.

A/C Quick Check

A check that can easily be made to check the health of the A/C system is the "feel check". With engine running, turn the auto A/C control to "ON" and the blower on "high". Take a test drive to warm the engine until the A/C system pressures stabilize. Raise the hood. With the A/C "On", locate the large tubing connected and routed from the compressor (low side) to the expansion valve (inlet side) of the evaporator. Next, locate the small tubing that is connected to the discharge-side of the compressor and routed to the outlet side of the evaporator. When you feel these two (2) lines, you should observe these results:

1. The low-side line should feel "cool" to the touch.
2. The high-side line should feel "warm" to the touch.

If the high-side tubing is not warm and the low-side is not cool, further tests will have to be made as the system is not doing any work. There is an internal problem; such as, a defective component or a leak in your A/C system.

Testing A/C System

Before system temperature tests can be made, a checklist should be followed (below) to setup for testing the A/C system:

1. Set the A/C "ON-OFF" switch to "ON".
2. Set the temperature control to "maximum cooling".
3. Set the blower on "high" or the highest number on the control switch.
4. Temperature inside passenger compartment should be stable and getting cooler.
5. Engine speed must be a minimum of 1500 rpm's.
6. All windows should be be in the "UP" position.

Check Temperature

Your compact car or truck has a small capacity A/C system and a loss of "cooling" would be more noticeable than a larger capacity auto A/C system. If a noticeable loss of "cooling" capacity is noticed, a temperature check at the vent registers should be made. This check can be made with an instant read or digital temperature thermometer.. The discharge air from the vents in the passenger compartment should range from 38 to 42 degrees F.

A/C System Diagnosis

Assuming that the discharge air test measured at the vent registers is out-of-range, a system pressure test will have to be made. Professional A/C technicians connect a tool known as the manifold gauge set to the "low" and "high" side service valves of the system. For you to diagnose and look inside the A/C, it will be necessary to become proficient in the use of the manifold gauge set.

A manifold gauge set that is suitable for the needs can be purchased at most auto supply stores and Internet A/C tool and supply store fronts for less than $50.00. TIP: Look for a gauge set that has a built-in sight glass.

Locate the "low" and "high" side service valves.. Connect the hoses (they are a snap connector fit) to the service valves in the following manner:.

1. Connect the blue hose of the gauge set to the "low-side" service valve of the compressor.
2. Connect the red hose of the gauge set to the "high-side service valve of the compressor.
3. The yellow hose of the gauge set is connected to a vacuum pump or a refrigerant can to add refrigerant to the system. The yellow hose is not connected to the system at this time.

Static Test

If you find an out-of-range temperature reading, the manifold gauge set should be installed on the "low" and "high-side" service valves. With the engine "OFF" and the compressor and clutch not engaged, the blue "low-side" and red "high-side" gauges should show equal readings of approximately 80 to 120psi. These readings would indicate that there is a refrigerant charge in your A/C system. If the readings were 50psi on each gauge, this would indicate that there is refrigerant in the system but a LOW CHARGE. If the readings were 10 to 20psi on each gauge would indicate that there is little or no refrigerant in your A/C system.

Engine Running Test

Start the engine,.turn the A/C switch"ON" with the blower on "high" and run for a minimum of fifteen (15) minutes. Observe the reading on the manifold gauge set. TIP: A manifold gauge set with a built-in sight glass (mentioned above) will save you diagnostic time as most A/C systems do not have a sight glass built-in the receiver-dryer on the high side of the system.

With this feature, you look for bubbling refrigerant oil and refrigerant in the sight glass on the manifold. Oil moving through the glass would indicate that the compressor and clutch are engaged. Refrigerant is being moved from the low-side throughout the A/C system in the refrigeration cycle.

Low Charge

With the engine running, A/C switch "ON", and the manifold gauge set installed, a "low-side" pressure reading of 20psi over 150psi would indicate that your A/C system has a LOW CHARGE. The low reading of 150psi on the "high-side" gauge would be the tell tale that the system is doing very little work. A LOW CHARGE usually is an indicator that there is a refrigerant leak from a component on the "low" or "high-side" of the A/C system. A refrigerant leak in the system would have to be repaired for the A/C system to blow "cold air". TIP: REFRIGERANT DOES NOT WEAR OUT, IT LEAKS OUT. Some symptoms to look for a LOW CHARGE condition are:

1. Compressor clutch short cycling.
2. Clutch will not engage.
3. Little or no cooling.
4. Oily residue on hoses and components.

Leak Checking

For your A/C system to blow "cold air", refrigerant leaks will have to be found and repaired. Usually, leaks in an A/C system are minor and can be fixed with a screwdriver or hand tools. Most A/C systems use schrader valves for easy connection of the manifold gauge set. That said, these are no more than overgrown bicycle valves that use a valve core. When you are checking a system, the valves are the first place check for a leak. Other targets; such as, oil residue on hoses connected to the compressor is the second place that should be checked. TIP: When tightening the bolts to the suction and discharge ports of the compressor with hand tools, do not over tighten. Rubber 0-rings are placed on the suction and discharge ports of the compressor for sealing. The seals will create a leak when over tightened. Only tighten snug.

When your A/C system has a LOW CHARGE, a refrigerant charge will have to added to check for the leak. Refrigerant that contains a dye for leak checking a system is used for this purpose. The manifold gauge set, refrigerant, and a can tap valve will be needed to add refrigerant to check for a leak in the system.

Connect the manifold gauge set as discussed above. Connect the yellow hose to the can tap valve and front seat (turn clockwise) the valve. Close the blue gauge on the manifold gauge set. Open the valve on the can tap valve. Slowly open the valve on the blue or "low-side" gauge and let the refrigerant flow from the refrigerant can into the system until you see a reading of 60psi on the "low-side" gauge. TIP: Placing the refrigerant can in a pan of hot water will allow the vapor refrigerant to enter the A/C system quicker. WARNING: Do not invert the refrigerant can. Doing so will allow liquid refrigerant to enter the system resulting in a ruined compressor.

Professional A/C technicians use an electronic leak detector to find leaks in an system. Use a battery-powered UV leak detector kit and special UV glasses. This kit can be purchased at auto supply stores and Internet A/C supply store fronts.

The UV glasses should be worn when checking for leaks. Simply place the tip of the detector on a fitting or connection to each component to be checked in the A/C system. When a leak is found, a light greenish color will be seen through the UV glasses.

Air Flow

An often overlooked cause of your A/C system not blowing "cold air" is debris that clogs the condenser. Bugs, plastic bags, and leaves from city and highway driving will prevent air from passing through the fins of the condenser. The condenser should be cleaned with a cleaning solvent. Bent fins on the condenser should be straightened with a fin comb.

Restrictions

A restriction is a condition that is a blockage. Usually, it is traced to the outlet side of the condenser. Some form of debris has formed causing a restriction of refrigerant flow through the condenser tubes.. The passages in the tubes of most condensers that are used in compact cars and trucks are very small. An effective way to diagnose a restriction in your A/C system is the manifold gauge set. The "high-side" (red) gauge would move into the DANGER zone, over 300psi.

System Repairs

When a system has been opened, and a component removed, moisture has entered the system. For your A/C to blow "cold air", that moisture will have to be removed with the aid of a vacuum pump.

At this stage of the repair, you have two (2) choices to finish the repair of your A/C system. The first choice is take the car or truck to an A/C professional. At their shop, they will evacuate the system, check your work, and recharge the A/C system for a fee.

The second choice is to repair your A/C system yourself. You will need to borrow or buy a vacuum pump to finish the repair. A small 2-stage vacuum pump that is designed for automobile refrigeration systems is available for less than $100.00.

After replacing a component, moisture has entered the system during the repair. For the A/C system to blow "cold air" the moisture will have to be removed. Install the manifold gauge set to your car or truck service valves as described above. After repairs, your A/C system is evacuated and recharged by applying the below steps:

1. Blue hose to the "low-side" service valve.

2. Red hose to the "high-side service valve.

3. Yellow hose to the suction port of the vacuum pump.

4. Close the hand valve to the vacuum pump.

5. Back seat (open) the hand valves on the blue and red gauges of the manifold gauge set.

6. Connect the electrical power to the vacuum pump.

7. Open the hand valve on the vacuum pump.

8. Run the vacuum pump for three (3) minutes.

9. The needle on the "low-side" gauge (blue) show should be in a vacuum at 28.3hg.

10. A system with no leaks will pull a vacuum of 28.3hg in three (3) minutes.

11. If the needle of the blue gauge did not fall to 28.3hg, the evacuation will have to be aborted as there is a leak in your car or truck A/C system.

12. The leak will have to be found in the A/C system using the UV detector and UV glasses.

13. Once the leak has been found and repaired, continue the evacuation steps as described above for 25 minutes.

14. Front seat (close) the hand valves on the blue and red gauges and observe the needle on the blue gauge.

15. The needle should hold steady at 29hg, indicating a tight system with no leaks.

16. Any needle movement toward "0" on the blue "low-side" gauge would indicate a leak in the system and the evacuation would have to be aborted and conduct a search for the leak.

16.Look in the owners manual or service manual for the factory recommended refrigerant charge. It is usually from 16 to 28 ounces.

17.Attach the can tap valve to a can of refrigerant Make sure that the tap valve hand valve is front seated (closed).

18. Turn the A/C control switch to the "ON" position and blower switch to "high".

19. Start the engine and run at 1500rpm's.

20. Place the refrigerant can in a pan of hot water. Warning: Do not invert the can for this process as liquid would enter the system and ruin the reed valves of the compressor.

21. Continue this process until the factory charge (approximately 2 1/2 cans) has entered the system.

22. Shutoff your car or truck engine and let the A/C system stabilize. When the readings on the red and blue gauges are equal, remove the blue "low-side" hose from the service valve.

23. Restart the engine and remove the red "high-side" hose from the service valve.

24. Close the hood and take your car or truck for a three (3) mile test drive.

25. Place an instant read or digital thermometer in the vent register in the passenger compartment.

26. The temperature should range from 38 to 42 degrees F on a 90-degree day.

Tools and Materials

1. Manifold gauge set
2. Vacuum pump
3. Hand tools
4. Battery powered UV leak detector
5. Can tap valve
6. 134A refrigerant dye
7. 134A refrigerant
8. Instant read temperature thermometer
9. Digital temperature thermometer

Rebuild Your Engine Or Purchase a New Car?

For car owners, one of the worst things that can happen is that their engine blows out. If you have an older car and have been used to not having to make car payments, this can be doubly troubling because in many cases, it means that it's time to go out and purchase a new car. However, further investigation shows that this may not necessarily be the case. There are other options besides getting rid of the car and buying a new one. One of those options includes getting the engine rebuilt. In some cases this makes sense, in other cases, it does not. What one needs to do is take a close look at their situation and see which way makes best financially.

The advantage of using a rebuilt engine instead of purchasing a new car is obviously, not having to make car payments every month. Other advantages include the high quality of a re-built engine. They can be just as good, if not better, than the original one. They are also friendlier for the environment because they use recycled parts, and they have to be compliant with pollution standards. They also typically come with short warranties. So individuals can have any problems that come up, fixed.

If one's car is in pretty good shape and the only problem is the engine, then it may be good idea to simply purchase a rebuilt engine instead of buying a new vehicle. Because new cars often come up with unexpected costs, depreciate very fast, have more expensive insurance rates and taxes, it can be much cheaper to simply replace the engine instead of going out and purchasing a new car. Engines that are rebuilt also then get better gas mileage and this is even more advantageous considering the price of gas these days.

If one considers only price, they will find that a new car can be very expensive, especially when you consider all of the above costs. Suddenly, the $2500-$3000 that is necessary to get an engine re-built, doesn't seem as steep. Again, this is only the case, if you are confident they your car is in pretty good shape and the only problem is engine.

Depending on whether or not you are good with cars, you can rebuild the engine yourself and install it in your car. For those that have no desire do so, they can have it rebuilt professionally and it typically comes with a warranty that covers 12,000 miles or one-year. You will find some warranties that will cover the car for either three years or 36,000 miles. The best way to find a really good deal is to simply call around.

Discovering that one's engine has suddenly failed can be very distressing, especially if you really can't afford to be without a car. You will need to decide if you need to replace your car or if you simply need to get the engine rebuilt. A lot of this will be dependent upon the shape of the car and the cost of the repairs, as well as how much it will cost to purchase a new or used vehicle. It basically comes down to dollars and cents and what makes more sense financially for a particular individual.

Some Maintenance Ideas

Car repairs are serious. A repair order is a contract for work. Car repairs are very important for maintaining a car in a well-functional condition, and they are critical for preventing auto accidents. So, maybe it's worth to shut our eyes to those unpleasant aspects of tune-ups, and think what are the best options for car repairs? Car repairs are expensive, but by keeping your car well-maintained, being informed as a consumer and choosing your mechanic wisely, you can reduce those car repair bills significantly. Keep reading for 5 tips that will show you how to do just that.

Car repairs are something I don't enjoy paying for. I used to use garages to do the work, even though when I was first working, I didn't have much money to spare. Car repairs are costly. Ohio's repair rates increased by an average of 16.6% between 1995 and 1999, click here . Car repairs are the worst. Or at least always seem like it at the time.

Car repairs are another significant and unexpected expense. If the family car needs repair and it is the end of the month, when cash reserves are low, a family will have no choice but to reduce food intake to get the car back on the road in order to go to work. Car repairs are expensive and it seems that the majority of negative comments dealt with estimates and questions, not about actual work performed. It was a breeze dealing with them (and I hope I won't have to go back soon). Car repairs are available both on-base/post and on the economy. However, the availability of car parts for older non-Korean vehicles could be troublesome.

Car repairs are one example of these things that happen. When I take my car in, I know that I'm going to be spending money, and that it might be more than I've budgeted.

The engine parts kits we offer include complete tune-up kits, valve cover replacement kits, oil pump repair kits, timing cover replacement kits, timing kits, rocker arm kits and engine mount kits. After all, if a customer takes his bicycle in for a tune-up, he knows the bicycle mechanic won't install new spark plugs, but he does expect the bike to perform better when the work is completed. The brakes will be adjusted, the tires aired up, the chain oiled, and so on, all under the guise of a "tune-up.". Your vehicle may only require a standard tune-up. However, if you are experiencing any performance problems, advanced diagnostics may be needed.

Today's 100,000 mile tune-up interval also skirts around the issue of fuel and air filter replacement, too. A number of new cars and trucks now have "lifetime" fuel filters, most of which are located inside the fuel tank with the electric fuel pump. The tune-up is not a cure-all for an engine that has spun its last revolution?or has problems beyond that which can be cured by replacing a few worn out parts. Engine brake removal is a part of the process in the maintenance of your engine?s fuel injectors and valve settings, therefore it?s an ideal time to perform engine brake maintenance with a Pacbrake tune-up kit. Make safety a priority while saving time and money.

A good place to begin the tune-up is with the distributor cap. Note position of cap. When you take you car for a tune-up, you rightfully expect to get better mileage and performance after the tune-up is completed. You may not expect to get extended engine life thrown in, but anything done to make the engine more efficient will make it last longer.

The spark plugs are especially important because a worn spark plug will cause poor starting, rough idling, and poor gas mileage. Keep the gas tank as full as possible. More condensation will form in a half-full tank than in a three-fourths full tank. This switch shall allow the operator to select gasoline operation or LPG operation and shall be permanently marked. The operator shall not have to operate any other controls in switching from one fuel to the other, unless required by the conversion system manufacturer.

Before you travel in bad weather, check several resources to gather as much information as possible about the weather and road conditions. You and you alone are responsible for making the final decision to travel during periods of bad weather. If the temperature gauge or warning light does not indicate overheating, drive carefully to the nearest service station, keeping an eye on your gauge. If the odor is accompanied by a hot, metallic scent and steam from under the hood, your engine has overheated.

The cooling system protects against damage, keeping the engine operating within the correct temperature range. Surveys among auto mechanics indicate the cooling system is among the most neglected aspects of car care. These simple steps save you money by improving your vehicle's gas mileage and extending the life of your tires, while also reducing air pollution and preventing tires from being added to our waste streams. Xenon is the same gas found in photo flash tubes and in many lighthouse bulbs. The thrust from the engine is as gentle as the force exerted by a sheet of paper held in the palm of your hand.

Cheap Auto Repair

Auto repair is a headache for motorists all over the world. Repair and replacement of parts have become so costly that motorists are looking for cheap auto repair as an alternative to regular repair.

Many auto repair firms advertise to repair vehicles at cheap rates but they do this by using inferior parts and employing unskilled workers. Generally, specialized shops, including transmission repair and old car repair shops, offer cheaper auto repairs compared to general shops. There are even general repair shops that provide you quality repair at cheaper rates.

It is imperative that you discuss the exact nature of the repair job and take time with the mechanic before you actually launch the repair. Most of the modern vehicles have computerized monitoring systems, which help mechanics identify problems easily. Auto repair manuals and guides call tell you details of each repair job and the normal time taken for each. These manuals can be bought from auto parts shops in your neighborhood.

Online you can find many experienced mechanics advertising cheap auto repair. They do brake jobs for as little as $50.00 and many other repair jobs just as cheap. There are also part-time mechanics who do most of their work at their own house and are ready to do cheap auto repair on request.

Cheap auto repair is usually sought by people who are money-minded. Cheap repair has many drawbacks too. It is not reliable, and often functionality is not guaranteed. Mechanics doing cheap auto repair generally do not give proper attention and, in many cases, inferior parts are used. Cheap auto repair can lead to long-term problems that may sometimes cost you much more money in the long run.

Car Interior Repair

A new car does not need any car interior repair but as it grows older, you will need to pay special attention. The dashboard, leather items, carpets, seat covers, door panels, etc. need to be either replaced or repaired.

Start the car interior repair from painting the dashboard. First of all, remove all the parts that you can and wash them in warm water with dish soap added to it. Use a soft cloth to clean the other interior parts such as steering wheel, door panels, dashboard, etc. Cover the other areas then rub the plastic parts and affected area with a fine-grade sand paper. Again clean up and apply good quality of primer on the areas you want to paint. Allow to dry and finally apply the proper re-paint color that is specially designed for your car type. A vinyl repair kit is the best option or dash cover is good choice in case of ample damage. Many dash covers are available that can match the carpet color in your car.

The loose headliner at times may be irritating and awkward. The fabric headliners in old cars were not a big problem, but the flabby headliner in modern cars may be disturbing at times specially while driving the car. If not repairable you need to change the whole set and it might cost you a big amount if done from a specialist. The headliner material and replacement kits are easily available in the market and you can easily fix the problem without hiring the professional.

The carpets in your car play an important role in car interior repair. The faded and damaged carpets in your car give a dull feeling inside the car. Replacing the whole carpet on your own can be a good option. Its easy job and many replacement carpets are available in the market that will perfectly fit your car model. You just need to remove the seats, door still plates, center console, and seat belts. The old carpet can be easily removed if not pasted originally. If bonded with some material it may take some time. Finally clean up the floor surface and install the new carpet. You can even follow the detail instructions in the manual provided while buying the carpet.

The car interior repair is incomplete without repairing the damaged leather seat covers. If the tear is small, the vinyl sealant can simply do the job. A vinyl repair kit is available for larger tear. These kits are provided with filler paste in a variety of colors that can match your interior. Also, you have the option of fabric repair kits for small holes in your seat cover. Protecting your seats is vital because it plays a major role while selling the car. The impressive and well-maintained seat covers can always add a great value to your car.

It is not always the case that you need a professional to do the car interior repair. The minor problems can be solved on your own. All types of company kits and manuals are available in the market. Well, one thing is sure the minor problem is the cause of major difficulty in future. Hence, it is important to detect them and repair in the first stage itself.

Do It Yourself Auto Repair, Case Study #1

This is my first, in a series of many, case studies for the "Do It Your Self" (or DIY) vehicle repair folks out there. Additionally, this is some good information for Junior and Intermediate Level Automotive Technicians!

Some vehicle history first. We'll start off with calling the DIYer Jim. Jim was literally pulling his hair out. He needed to get his vehicle to pass the states emissions test in order to get a current Inspection Sticker. He borrowed a friends "mini scan tool" and got the code p0171, left bank lean. Meaning the left bank O2 sensor had "seen" a continuous lean condition and triggered a code to set in the PCM and turn on the Check Engine Light.

Jim is "web savvy", so he went online and did some homework. All the recommendations pointed to the left bank O2 sensor ("left" being the operative word!). He went to his local parts supplier and purchased the sensor. Jim replaced the O2 sensor, cleared the code and had his wife drive the vehicle for a few days. At approximately 75 miles later, the Check Engine Light came on and the same code was triggered.

Jim went back online and dug deeper. It was suggested that a possible cause could have been the vacuum lines had cracked and were leaking; causing this lean condition and/or the lower intake gasket had failed. These are common problems with this type of engine. He also verified this with some "mechanic friends" of his. (I'll comment on that later)

Well, Jim went all out! First he tackled the daunting task of replacing the lower intake gasket. Luck was not in his favor and in the process, two of the intake bolts hole threads stripped out.

After re-drilling and tapping the bolt holes, he got the lower intake gasket and the upper plenum gaskets replaced. Jim also replaced every vacuum line! He cleared the code and again had his wife drive the vehicle for a few days. At this point he thought he "nailed" the problem.

Once again, the nasty Check Engine Light came on at about 75 miles. Well you can imagine Jim's frustration level by now. He got my business card from his local parts supplier and gave me a call. When I arrived on site, his wife gave me Jim's written history and a list of what he wanted me to check (he's a meticulous guy!). Needless to say, I immediately connected my Scantool (I use an OTC Genysis) and noted that the O2 sensor 1/1 (left bank) was "fixed" lean. I also noted fuel trim on the left bank was "maxed" and on cold start the idle was very low.

I then shut down the engine, removed the air intake ducting and noted that the "left bank" O2 sensor was an original factory installed part. I restarted the vehicle, connected my lab scope and verified the O2 sensor's condition. (But I've got to say that I knew which side of the engine was "left" and which side was "right").

I think you see the "moral" to this story. Poor Jim had replaced the wrong O2 sensor; he'd gotten "bad advice" online AND from "mechanic friends" (who turned out to be really fellow DIYers and technicians with very little experience!). He was lead to believe that the "left" bank was in relation to the "drivers" side of the vehicle, when in fact the "left" side was really in relation to when you were standing in front of the vehicle FACING the front of the engine. (Simplified)

Lessons Learned: (I love this part, because if we all learn something new everyday ........ WE are all that much better!)

1. I'm going to say this over and over and over again ... Back to Basics! Yeah, these new cars can be complicated, when it comes to engine performance issues, start with the BASICS and then "move on" ie: verify which side of the engine is which!

2. Did I mention Back to Basics? (I'll stop now!)

3. Testing is the key to your successful diagnosis! And knowing what to test for is equally important. Lets review; Jim had a Scantool that displayed basic codes, monitor status and limited data stream. A simple test was: disconnect the O2 electrical connector and view which O2 was actually the cause. Suspected O2 was lean, disconnected O2 should read mid range, .4 -.5 vac. Or rev the engine to 2k rpm (in park!) and "view" the O2's "switching" from rich to lean.

4. Jim had the DIY manual for the vehicle AND a wiring diagram. A simple test (not definitive) is to test, with a digital multimeter,the voltage of the suspected O2 sensor(less than .40 vac is lean, greater than .40 vac is rich. This may have pointed him in the right direction!

(Though I don't recommend this unless you can find your way around a wiring diagram!)

5. Don't "lock yourself in" on the recommendations of others! Get some professional advice! Hey, this is the "New Millennium"and there are plenty of places out there to give you FREE advice.

Jim spent a good amount of money in vain and got a few grey hairs in the process. But, hopefully, he'll never forget this lesson and will learn from it. I've kept the testing procedures in the very broadest of terms, so please don't take them as the gospel truth. I recommend finding the component test information in your DIY manual or OEM manual first. When seeking advice ensure the person is a certified technician, either A.S.E. or OEM Factory trained.

Until next time,

Avoiding Costly Auto Air Conditioning Repairs - Some Small Tips That Can Save You Cash!

Auto air conditioning repair seems to be getting more and more difficult. There are a handful of individuals with the skill and know-how to take on this task but they seem to be a dying breed. Auto air conditioning is built in and around the engine of the car, so upkeep should be handled by a professional. For instance, do you know how much refrigerant does your car take? Auto air conditioning service and repair cannot be undertaken by just anyone, you need the right equipment and the knowledge to undertake such a repair. In some countries it is illegal to repair an air conditioning system even an auto A/C system has to be repaired by a licensed mechanic.

Automobile gas leak and the consequent resealing of the system. It has been observed, that a large percentage of older (4 years or older) cars, seem to have continual slow refrigerant leaking problems. Even when the leaks are identified and repaired, many are low on charge by the following summer. Leaks can be difficult to detect. Specialist equipment is necessary to find the leak and further equipment is needed to correctly recharge the system after repairs have been carried out.

Auto air conditioning repair is also one of the largest overcharged repairs on automobiles today. It is very common for repair bills to reach well over $1000. As you can see, there are some businesses that are taking advantage of consumers due to the specialist nature of the repair and the qualifications needed to do it properly. But do not despair there are honest repair technicians / businesses out there that will charge a fair price for the work carried out. Try to obtain quotes for the repair and do not make the mistake of settling for the first quote you receive.

Tip: During winter many motorists forget about their auto air conditioning because it isn't necessary to use it during those cold months. But did you know that using the air conditioning on the windscreen will clear any internal fogging very efficiently, and having the heater on at the same time stops you getting cold as well.

Tip: Using the auto air conditioner as noted above will also help to alleviate any need to re-gas the system. Why? Because an auto air conditioner compressor uses a seal on the drive shaft to keep the refrigerant from escaping. This seal works with the help of a thin film of oil, during winter the non use of the air conditioner allows the oil to dry up thus letting the refrigerant escape. The unknowing driver does not find out their system isn't functioning till summer arrives. Run your car air conditioner once every 2 weeks for a few minutes and you will have no problems or use it to defrost and defog your windscreen during winter.

Restoring a Car Engine? Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner

There's something magnificent about a beautifully restored antique classic automobile. One look under the hood of a 1930 Model 734 Packard Rumble Seat Roadster or something like Amelia Earharts' 1931 Reo and you have to think, "They sure don't build them like that anymore!"

While many of us can't afford the classic cars of the 1920s or 30s there are those who like to work on old engines, coaxing new life into a recalcitrant block of 4, 6 or 8 cylinders as part of our own auto restoration project. Since it has to run to have worth, an automobile engine is usually first to be tackled. An ultrasonic cleaner is the best friend a restoration fanatic can have for a project like this.

Ultrasonic cleaners are widely used to clean engines of most any size and shape. They replace the old-fashioned solvent degreasers used in neighborhood garages of yesteryear. Perhaps you recall seeing mechanics holding engine parts under a faucet and manually scrubbing away grit, grease and grime as the solvent is re-circulated through a filter-equipped holding tank.

Now mechanics place disassembled engine parts in an ultrasonic bath. Yes, we're talking carburetors, fuel pumps, oil pumps, pistons, connecting rods, crankshafts, camshafts, bearings, all the various gears, chains and components that together comprise an internal combustion engine and for that matter, transmissions and differentials too. The magic of cavitation does the work faster, much more efficiently and safely than any amount of hand scrubbing in a volatile solvent.

Why an Ultrasonic Cleaner Cleans so Clean

Like the old solvent cleaning system an ultrasonic cleaning system consists of a tank that holds the ultrasonic cleaning solution. Biodegradable and safe, the solutions usually come in concentrated form and are diluted to manufacturers' specifications. Along with the tank an ultrasonic cleaner consists of an ultrasonic generator and ultrasonic transducers that are firmly attached to the bottom or sides of the tank.

When the unit is turned on the ultrasonic transducers create billions of microscopic bubbles in the cleaning solution. Engine parts are placed in a mesh basket, on a rack, or otherwise suspended in the solution and the cleaning cycle begins as the bubbles implode with tremendous force upon contacting the parts. Dirt, grime, grease, carbon deposits - all contaminants are stripped off of the parts without damaging them.

So tiny are the cavitation bubbles that they penetrate cracks, crevices and blind holes - areas impossible to reach by manual scrubbing.

At the end of the cleaning cycle parts are removed, rinsed and dried. A rust inhibitor is applied and the parts are ready for reassembly.

Operating Tips

Because it contains air, fresh ultrasonic cleaning solution should be degassed by letting the cleaner operate in a degas mode for at least 10 minutes before immersing the parts into the solution. This is because air bubbles interfere with cavitation action and slow the cleaning process.

Oils and residues that rise to the surface should be skimmed off and safely recycled. Filters can trap other contaminants and should likewise be safely disposed of. Used biodegradable solutions can be disposed of in sanitary drains. The tank itself should be periodically cleaned according to manufacturers' recommendations.

The "Check Engine Light" in My Car Keeps Coming On - What Does this Light Mean?

Reader Question: My check engine light came on the other day what should I do? Will it hurt my car if I continue to drive it?
Thanks James

Dear James,

I hear this line at least once a week. The instrument panel on most cars is absolutely cluttered with warning indicator lights and buzzers. These lights are color-coordinated so that different colors indicate the severity of the potential problem. As you start the car, all of the lights should come on, and as the computer verifies each component is working properly, the light is turned off. You should only be concerned with lights that remain on for several minutes after the car has been started. Check engine or service engine soon lights can be tricky to repair, so a little help on your part could really save the mechanic some diagnostic time, and save you some money!

Treat check engine lights-service engine soon lights, and all dash lights like traffic signals. A Red Warning light indicates an immediate danger. Pull over, turn off the car immediately and assess the problem. Symptoms that usually cause red warning lights are engine over-heating, low oil pressure, transmission over-heating, low battery voltage, and brake failure.

Red lights can also indicate a safety issue, so proceed with caution as you maneuver to stop the vehicle. Unfortunately, when the red light is illuminated the problem is at its peek. It can be a matter of seconds before permanent engine damage occurs.

Some common things to look for when a red light comes on are:

* low anti-freeze, engine oil, and transmission fluid levels

* low brake fluid

* missing belts

* faulty alternator that is not charging the battery or a bad battery

To decode check engine lights, you really need a quality repair manual like those provided at ALLDATA. They include troubleshooting procedures, Recall Information and Technical Service Bulletins. Click Here to get your manual today and find out what that check engine light really means.

A Yellow Warning light, (Usually a Service engine soon light) indicates "Proceed with caution." The onboard computer system has indicated a potential problem and is alerting the driver. This computer system resets and re-tests all sensors and indicators each time the car is started. The computer system is capable of correcting some minor abnormalities, but if the light continues to come on after multiple car starts, it is probably sensing something that would imply a visit to the diagnostic mechanic is in order.

Some common things that may cause a yellow light (Service engine soon light) to come on, but will probably require an experienced technician to diagnose are:

* anti-lock brake systems

* safety restraint systems, such as air bags

* emissions components

* computer-related problems, such as faulty sensors

If you are driving your car and a yellow light comes on, ask yourself these questions:

1. Did you notice problems when starting the car? (slower to start than normal..etc.)

2. Have you noticed a decrease in fuel mileage recently?

3. What is the over-all running condition of the car? Is the engine misfiring or not performing like normal? Are there any new noises from under the hood? Turn off the radio and listen closely as you drive the car.

4. Do you notice any odors, such as a rotten egg smell, or see visible smoke from the tail-pipe or from under the hood?

Make sure to note the exact location and wording of the light that has been coming on, because Murphy's Law dictates that the light will suddenly not come on when you take it in to the repair shop.

In some cars, "engine" is the more serious red light, whereas others use "check engine light," which is a yellow caution light. If the mechanic thinks you are seeing a yellow "check engine light," and your car is indicating a red "engine" danger light, this could be a costly mistake for both of you. Why? You could be having a serious over heating problem and the mechanic is assuming you are having a less serious caution light illuminating. The mechanic then might give you the "green light" (no pun intended) to proceed with your out of town road trip with the kids. Yikes!

Start the car, and point to the light to ensure good communication of the problem. Intermittent dash warning lights can be a pain and hard to diagnose! Diagnosing the problem in some cases will require the light to be on while the mechanic performs the diagnostic test. If the light is not on when you bring the car to the shop, you might be wasting your time and the mechanic's.

SIDE NOTE: Keep a "running condition and dash light" log in your car to help the mechanic pin point the root of the problem. I have a customer who keeps such an accurate log of her cars' complaints that sometimes I can diagnose the problem correctly with the help of her log and by taking her along on my initial test drive.

I can do my diagnosis usually without opening the hood to her car. This saves me time and she saves money on a diagnostic charge. This customer can also hold me to my warranty time period, because she had this particular complaint written in her log book.

Most Common Auto Repairs

Owning a car can be something of a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you cannot imagine daily life without this source of tremendous convenience. On the other, the repair schedule and expenses can occasionally be brutal enough to send you running back to public transit. Thankfully there is a middle ground, and it relies on nothing more complex than a basic understanding of common car repairs. If you have found yourself wondering whether those mechanics' estimates may be a bit suspicious, some basic education can go a long way toward saving your finances in the future.

Cars are notoriously complex machines, given to wear and malfunction in countless areas. From dings in the body down to the tiniest catalytic converter, the vehicles we drive are as intricate as they are pricey. Only a few main areas seem to require attention year after year, however - master these and you can expect lower bills and a more successful ownership experience.

The most common repair is most likely the brakes. This is, after all, a part that was designed specifically to wear down and disappear over time. Whether your car uses pads or disks, it is important to get detailed information about how much wear you are looking at. Responsible ASE-certified auto shops will most likely give you a percentage of material remaining, making it far easier to decide when it's time for a replacement part. If the problem is something more substantial - blocked fluid lines or a defective booster, for instance - you will want to call around for different estimates before committing to an expensive process.

Engine problems are the second most common type of repairs, especially when you consider just how many parts are covered by this umbrella category. From issues with the fuel lines to a mis-choked carburetor, engine repair can run well into three and even four figures. Taking swift action is inevitably less expensive than waiting, however - that "check engine" light isn't decoration, and it's not unusual for problems such as these to quickly snowball into major mechanical failures. Experts recommend getting off the road and to a trusted mechanic at the first sign of engine trouble.

Countless other problems can arise in the daily operation of your car, from suspension and tire pressure failures to problems with the transmission, electrical system and climate control. Practiced mechanics and savvy customers know the best way to save money on repairs such as these is to do some comparison shopping and keep a vigilant eye out for pricing scams. Speak to friends about their experiences if you are on the hunt for a new repair shop, and be sure to check Better Business Bureau files to avoid sources of common compliant.

One of the few consistent truisms about owner a car is that you will almost never see the same problem twice. Good research, sound preventive maintenance and an informed perspective on the repair business should keep you driving at minimal expense for years to come.

Learn About Managing an Oil Pressure Switch

The right amount of oil and pressure is essential for the smooth operations of the engine. In terms of fuel economy and managing costs, you need to check the oil level regularly. If you do not manage the oil issues properly, you can lose thousands of dollars in repairs. Again, any heating system that is maintained with oil requires the right pressure. This allows the system to work efficiently at all times.

The right amount of oil and pressure is essential for the smooth operations of the engine. In terms of fuel economy and managing costs, you need to check the oil level regularly. If you do not manage the oil issues properly, you can lose thousands of dollars in repairs. Again, any heating system that is maintained with oil requires the right pressure. This allows the system to work efficiently at all times.

Oil Pressure Switch in Cars

Almost all the cars are equipped with the gauge or light that is connected to the oil pressure switch. This tends to flash and change color if there is a problem. You need to immediately pull over and turn off the engine. Let it cool down so you eliminate the risk of the engine seizing up.

The switch basically works by triggering the light or gauge if the pressure drops below a specific level. In the newest models, you will find that at any point if the pressure drops below 10 pounds the light will go off. If the light continues to blink then you will require refilling of oil after checking the level.

Occasionally when you start the car you will see the oil pressure gauge light up and it goes off in a few minutes. This is because a cool engine does not have a lot of pressure. At this point, you may think that the switch is broken. However, give it a few minutes before you make a change.

Replacing the Faulty Oil Pressure Switch

If you feel that the switch is no longer working, it needs instant replacement. The small gadget can allow you thousands of dollars of savings in car maintenance and repair.

It is easy to shop online or go to a car parts store. Within a few minutes, you can choose the right oil pressure switch for your vehicle. With a little insight on the model number, you really don't need to go to a mechanic or car dealer. This saves you a lot of money when you're considering replacement.

It is very easy to check the oil level to top it up. You simply need to locate the oil tank. Just check the owner's manual and you can find the location. If you do not have an owner's manual then you can check online on the manufacturer's website.

Changing the Switch Manually

In order to change the oil pressure switch yourself, you need to have a basic mechanical background. Generally it is located right next to the oil filter in the vehicle spirit you require a special socket to unscrew this switch. Once you replace it, screw it back tightly and it will work perfectly.

3 Easy Steps to Growing Your Offline Business Online

I often get asked "what is the best way to promote a small offline business on the internet?" There are so many answers to this question I would almost need to write a novel, but if I had to narrow it down, there would be three "musts" that will be the backbone of your internet marketing strategies.

The Top 3 Small Business Marketing Strategies Are:

Create A Business WordPress Blog. With the technology today and the existence of some pretty fantastic plug-ins, it is possible to do the majority of your business marketing through your blog. You can do social bookmarking and micro-blogging on sites like Twitter and Facebook automatically from your blog. Article publishing is possible through the blog as well with the right plug-ins installed. On-page SEO is very easy with WordPress so you can invite the search engines to visit the site often to index your content. Today, WordPress is almost like business management in a box.
Link building. Creating a network of high profile inbound links to your small business website can mean the difference between appearing on page 10 in the search engines and appearing on page one. Since the goal is to get traffic to your website to generate more new business, the higher up the search engine placement you can get, the more traffic you will receive. These links can also grab traffic from the sites they are placed on. If the site is relevant to your niche and gets a good amount of traffic itself, you may receive referral traffic from your link.
Forums and Community Sites. Joining forums and community user-groups is a great way to generate awareness of your business. These sites are filled with your potential customers. Almost all of the members of these groups have a common interest or situation. The old saying is that "birds of a feather flock together" and this is true of forums and user-groups. Becoming an active member within these communities will create a word of mouth referral system for your business. Be actively involved, not a sales person. Form friendships and be helpful to all. This is one of the fastest ways to gain authority status and become the go-to person within your niche market.

This will form the foundation of your online business. If you do nothing else, although I do not recommend that, these three methods will go a long way to creating an online presence for your business and begin sending traffic to your website. Of course, the more traffic you get the more sales you should make if you have made a highly converting website...but that is a topic for another article.

When We Need Car Repairs - How to Know When Our Car Needs Repair

Cars are products that should be taken care of, just like humans and any other products in the market that have a multiple of systems working in them. The consequences of not taking care of your car would be catastrophic, and not to mention expensive. Drivers are lucky however, as the systems within a car has ways to indicate and show the driver that something is wrong, provided the driver keeps an eye out for deficiencies. So how would one know if his or her car needs to be repaired or a part needs to be replaced?

Signs to Look Out For:

1 - Tyres / Tires

In terms of handling and tires, you can detect deficiencies in this segment when the car starts wobbling or you lose grip when driving on the road. If your car veers to the side while you are driving, chances are that you need to get your tires re-aligned and balanced. Other symptoms include vibrating or shaking steering wheel, lack of grip during rainy days or during cornering. If you are losing grip, you should probably check the condition of the tires (tire pressure, thread condition) or even the suspension system.

2 - Oil filter leakage

If you experience oil leakages from the engine, you could probably be facing a leaking oil filter. If you are facing jerking problems while you drive, your air filter might be clogged, or probably it is time to change your spark plugs.

3 - Transmission system

You should look at repairing or replacing your cars transmission system if one of the following occurs. Firstly if your car is not moving smoothly and you are experiencing bumpy rides. Secondly if you smell burning rubber, which may be hardened rubber seals and gaskets within the transmission system. Thirdly if you drive a manual and you find gear shifting to be difficult. Or if you find that your transmission fluid is leaking, make sure you head to a qualified mechanic to get the transmission system checked out.

4 - Electrical system - Car Battery or Alternator?

How about the electrical system of a car? This would first be indicated by cranking and starting problems if your battery is in need of repair or replacement. Or else your alternator might be facing issues to charge your battery. Check on the charging system by turning on the headlights and checking for dim lights. If they are indeed dim, that means you have to get your alternator looked at.

To conclude, your car would definitely give indications when something needs to be replaced or repaired. It is up to you to read the signs right and take appropriate action to avoid long-term damage on your car.