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Last Update: April 13, 2024
Automotive Glossary
Automotive Glossary of Terms A to E
Automotive Glossary of Terms F to P
Automotive Glossary of Terms R to Z
Automotive Acronyms
ASE
English-Spanish Glossary of Technical Terms (PDF file).
Automotive
Training Resources
OEM Service Information & Technical Websites
Click HERE for List of OEM Vehicle Manufacturer Service Information Websites & Access Fees
Auto Repair Safety Tips
(READ THIS FIRST!)
Air Conditioning Articles
A/C Frequently Asked Questions
Air Conditioning Inspection Checklist
Air Conditioning Self-Test Quiz (Download or Print PDF file)
A/C Cooling Problem: Blows Warm Air Only No Cool Air
How To Recharge Your Car's Air Conditioner
Alternative Refrigerants for R-12
R-1234yf
Flammable Refrigerants
Future Alternative Refrigerants That May Replace R-134a
Information about Retrofitting older vehicles with R-12 A/C systems to R-134a
Air Conditioning Service Best Practices (Procedures a repair shop should follow when servicing your A/C system)
MACS Recommended A/C Service Procedures (PDF file).
Air Conditioning Troubleshooting (General Tips)
Troubleshoot Automatic Climate Control System
A/C Compressor Failures
A/C Condenser Flushing
Compressor PAG Oil Application Chart
Alignment Articles
Wheel Alignment: Camber, Caster & Toe
Wheel Alignment Self-Test Quiz (Download or Print PDF file)
Fixing Common Alignment Problems
Strut Suspensions
Correcting Steering Pulls
Getting The Right Attitude:
Restoring Ride Height
How To Align The
Unalignable
Aligning Light Trucks &
SUVs
Steering & Suspension Quiz
Brake Articles
Brake Repair
Brake Pad Installation Tips
Fixes For Common Brake Problems
No Brakes!
Brake Line Failure
Brake Warning Light (possible causes)
Low Brake Pedal (causes)
Brake Grease
Silencing Brake Squeal
Eliminating Brake Noise
Say No to Brake Noise
5 Car Noises You Should Not Ignore
Preventing Disc Brake Dust
About Ceramic Brake Pads
More on Ceramic Brake Pads
Update On Application Specific Brake Linings
Choosing Brake Friction Materials
Rating Aftermarket Brake Linings: D3EA Testing
Brake Rotors
Cautions on Composite Disc Brake Rotors
Disc Brakes
Disc Brake Repair
Drum Brake Service
Drum Brake Wheel Cylinder Inspection & Service
Brake Fluid: A Hot Topic
Bleeding Brakes
Bleeding ABS Brake Systems
Asbestos still a hazard
Servicing Brake Hydraulics
Brake Master Cylinder
Brake Balance & Electronic Brake Proportioning
Brake Calipers
Loaded Brake Calipers
Troubleshoot Power Brakes
Parking Brake Service
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
Big 3 Brake Symposium Notes - Oct 2002
Big 3 Brake Symposium Notes - May 2001
All About Antilock Brake Systems (ABS)
Antilock Braking Systems (1998 model year)
ABS Systems Come Under Fire
New ABS Diagnostic Testers
Pulling ABS Diagnostic Codes
Diagnosing ABS Wheel Speed Sensors
Chrysler Dodge Plymouth Minivan Bendix 10 Antilock Brakes
GM Delphi DBC-7 ABS Antilock Brakes
Honda Antilock Brakes
Honda Accord Rear Brake Wear Problem (2008 - 2010 models)
Jeep Bendix 9 Antilock Brakes
Kelsey-Hayes 4WAL Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Electronic Stability Control
Brake-By-Wire
Brake System Self-Test Quiz (Downloadable PDF file)
Cooling System Articles
Cooling System Self-Test Quiz
Finding & Fixing Coolant Leaks
Servicing Your Cooling System
Cooling System Maintenance & Repairs
Coolant Recovery Systems
Cooling System Electrolysis Corrosion (causes & cures)
Radiator Repair & Replacement
Coolant Checks & Changes More Complicated These Days
Antifreeze (Universal Coolant)
Coolant Types
Your Temperature Warning Lamp Is On. What Should You Do?
Overheating: Causes & Cures
How To Diagnose & Replace A Thermostat
Coolant Sensors
Troubleshoot Electric Cooling Fan
Electric Cooling Fan Relay Problems
Troubleshoot Cooling Fan Clutch
Water Pump Diagnosis & Replacement
Belt & hose service
Serpentine Belts
Automatic Belt Tensioners
Kia Idler Pulley Noise
Heater Service
Driveability, Diagnostics & Emissions Articles
Poor Fuel Economy
Car Won't Start (Possible Causes & Quick Checks)
Troubleshoot Anti-Theft System
Diagnose Ignition Switch Problems
Start Engine Push Button Diagnosis
Keyfob Won't Start Car
Troubleshoot Intermittent Engine Problems
Check Engine Light OnBoard Diagnostics
Check Engine Light Troubleshooting Guide
More on Check Engine Lights & Fault Code Diagnostics
Ford P0171 & P0174 Lean Codes
5 Warning Lights You Should Never Ignore!
Other Warning Lights (TEMP, OIL, ALT/GEN, BRAKES, ABS, AIR BAGS, etc.)
Scan Tool Diagnostics
Controller Area Network (CAN) Diagnostics
CAN communication problem (what to do when the CAN system won't talk to your scan tool)
Mode 06 Diagnostics
Flash Reprogramming PCMs
Flash Reprogramming PCMs (more)
Powertrain Control Modules (PCMs)
Understanding Engine Management Systems
Making Sense of Engine Sensors
Air Temperature Sensors
Coolant Sensors
Crankshaft Position CKP Sensors
Understanding Oxygen (O2) Sensors
Oxygen Sensor Locations
Wideband O2 Sensors & A/F Sensors
Sensing Emission Problems (O2 Sensors)
MAP sensors
Mass Airflow MAF Sensors
Vane Airflow VAF Sensors
Throttle Position Sensors
Decoding Onboard Diagnostics
TROUBLE CODE Help
Most Common Trouble Codes (and what causes them)
Trouble Code Diagnostic Tips
All About Onboard Diagnostics II (OBD II)
OBD2 Basics Self-Test Quiz
OBD Monitor Not Ready
Understanding OBD II Driveability & Emissions Problems
Zeroing in on OBD II Diagnostics
Emission Controls: The Birth, Evolution and End of Automotive Emission Controls
Emissions testing update
Emissions Testing: Exhaust Analysis
Evolution of I/M 240
The Environmental Challenge Now Is CO2
Global Warming and Climate Change: What Do We Know Now?
Is water Vapor in Car Exhaust Affecting Our Weather? (January 2024)
Automotive Environmental Issues
The Unforeseen Environmental Impact of Air Conditioning
Fixing Emission Failures
How Fuel Injection Affects Emissions
Air/Fuel Ratios
Basic Emission Control Systems Overview
Emission Control Basics Self-Test Quiz (Download or Print PDF file)
Catalytic Converters
Catalytic Converter Thefts
Troubleshoot a P0420 Catalyst Code
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV)
EVAP Evaporative Emission Control System
Gas Cap Loose?
Spark Knock (Detonation)
What Is Detonation?
How Electronic Fuel Injection Works
Fuel Injection Self-Test Quiz (Download or Print PDF file)
How Fuel Injection Affects Emissions
What Is Fuel Trim?
What Is Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)?
Toyota Fuel Injection
Troubleshoot Fuel Injectors
Troubleshoot Electronic Fuel Injection Problems
Fuel System Frequently Asked Questions
Fuel System Diagnostics: Finding the Best Approach
Fuel Pump Diagnosis Tips from Carter (PDF file).
How To Diagnose & Repair Carburetor Problems
Carburetor or EFI: Which Is Best?
Honda Keihin Carburetor Repair
Bad Gas Update 2006
1998 Saturn SC2 intermittent cranks no start problem
The Scoop On Scopes (Diagnostic Storage Oscilloscopes)
Distributorless Ignition Systems
Coil-Over-Plug Ignition Systems
Test Your Knowledge: Ignition System Quiz
Troubleshoot Idle Speed Control System
Driveability Diagnosis: Misfires
Misfire Diagnosis Chrysler 3.5L V6
Idle Surge (cause & cure)
Ignition Coil Diagnosis & Testing
Diagnosing Dead On Arrival Vehicles
Troubleshooting with Temperature
Troubleshoot electrical problems
Electrical Loads for Automotive Systems, Lighting and Accessories
Finding & Fixing Vacuum Leaks
What's a Tune-Up Today?
Don't Neglect the Spark Plugs
Why Spark Plugs Still Need To Be Replaced
Spark Plug Fouling
Original Equipment Spark Plugs, Are They Best?
Ruthenium Spark Plugs
Ford Motorcraft Spark Plug Breakage Problem (2004 - 2008 Ford Trucks w/5.4L V8, & 2005 - 2008 Mustang GT with 4.6L V8)
Bosch Platinum Plus 4 "Forever" Spark Plugs
Light-Duty Diesel Diagnosis
Diesel Piston Damage Diagnosis
GM Duramax Diesel Warranty Issues
Diesel Fuel Treatments
Click the image below to view Larry's Guide Book (pdf file)
Electrical, Battery, Starting & Charging System Articles
Battery, Charging, Starting Systems Self-Test Quiz
Battery Safety (Read First!!!)
Hybrid Safety Hazards
Car Fires
Battery FAQs
Is Covid-19 Killing Your Car Battery & Alternator?
How to Test Your Car Battery
Diagnosing A Battery That Runs Down
Battery Replacement
Battery Disconnect Problems (Read This BEFORE Disconnecting or Replacing Your Battery)
Charging System Checks (alternator testing)
Starting & Charging System Troubleshooting
Alternator Failure Causes
How To Replace an Alternator
More on Starters
What You Should Know About Rebuilt Alternators & Starters
High Output Alternators (Why You May Need One)
Voltage DropTesting
Troubleshoot electrical problems
Automotive Electrical Circuits
Electrical System Basics Self-Test Quiz
Power Centers: Relays & Fuses
Troubleshoot Anti-Theft System
Key Fob Remote Won't Unlock Door
Troubleshoot Electronic Instrument Cluster
Troubleshoot Power Windows
Troubleshoot Headlights
Lights (headlights & bulbs)
High Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights
Headlight Frequently Asked Questions
Stop-Start Systems
Engine Articles
Buick 3800 Engine Diagnosis
Chevy Aveo 1.6L Timing Belt Replacement
Chrysler 3.5L V6 Engine Service
Chrysler/Mitsubishi 3.0L V6 Engine Service
Chrysler Neon 2.0L Engine Service
GM Timing Belt Replacement
Ford Timing Belts & Chains
Ford 3.0L Duratec V6 Engine Diagnosis
Ford EcoBoost V6 Engine Valve Failure
Toyota & Honda Timing Belts
Cadillac Northstar V8 Engine Service
Engine Replacement Issues
Engine Repair Options
Engine Components Self-Test Quiz (Download or Print PDF file)
Diesel Piston Damage Diagnosis
GM Duramax Diesel Warranty Issues
Motor Mounts
Saturn Vibration Caused by Bad Engine Mount
Engine Rebuilding Tips
Horsepower & Torque
Engine Balancing
Replacing Internal Engine Parts
Engine Displacement (Bore and Stroke)
Cylinder Bore Honing Techniques
Cylinder Bore Surface Finishes (by the numbers)
Timing Chains & Belts
Variable Valve Timing
Ford Variable Cam Timing Codes
Timing Chain Replacement (Mazda & Ford 3.0L DOHC V6)
Aftermarket Timing Belt Warranty Warning
Timing Belts: Is Your Engine and Interference Engine?
About Camshafts & How To Choose a Camshaft
New Gasket Sealing & Resurfacing Requirements for Today's Engines
Cast Iron Cylinder Head and Block Crack Repairs
Valve Guide Repairs
Valve Seat Repairs
Causes of Valve Failures
Diagnose Weak Valve Springs
OHC Cylinder Head Components
OHC Cylinder Head Repairs
Cylinder Head Resurfacing
Tracking Down Causes of Engine Failure
Preventing Repeat Head Gasket Failures
Why Head Gaskets Fail
Head Gasket Failure: Common Causes
How to Fix a Leaky Head Gasket
Cylinder Head Bolts
Head Bolts (Torque-to-yield TTY)
Torque Wrench (how to use)
How to Remove Nuts & Bolts
Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light On
Troubleshoot Low OilPressure
Oil Pump Diagnosis
Oil Pumps: The Heart of the Engine
Oil Pumps High Flow
Do You Really Need a High Volume Oil Pump?
What Every Technician Should Know About Engine Bearings
Evolution of Piston Design
Piston Rings: Stock & Performance
Rings of Steel: Update On Piston Ring Technology
Piston Rings: Stock & Performance
Piston Ring End Gap Recommendations
Compression Ratio
Engine Compression Testing
Engine Leakdown Testing
Measuring Blowby
Causes of High Oil Consumption"
Engine Oil Leaks
Exhaust Smoke (various causes of)
Diagnosing Engine Noise
Engine Noise in Dodge Caravan & Chrysler Minivans
5 Car Noises You Should Not Ignore
Exhaust Articles
Troubleshoot Exhaust Problems
How to Check Exhaust Backpressure
Troubleshoot a P0420 Catalytic Converter Code
Catalytic Converter Testing
How to Replace a Muffler
Performance Mufflers
Front-Wheel Drive Articles
CV Joints & FWD shafts, part 1: Basics
CV Joints, part 2: Service & Repair
More About CV Joint and Halfshaft Service
How CV Joints are Remachined
Torque Steer in FWD Cars
Do You Really Need All-Wheel Drive (or 4WD)?
Fuel Related Articles
Fuel Contamination: What Happens If You Put The WRONG Fuel In Your Car
Gas Cap Loose?
Gas Pains -- High Fuel Prices and What You Can and Can't Do About It
Fuel Saving Tips from the Car Care Council
My Advice On Gas-Saving Gadgets
About Alternative Fuels
E85 Ethanol Alcohol Alternative Fuel
What is E15?
How To Diagnose & Repair Carburetor Problems
Mechanical Fuel Pumps
Electric Fuel Pumps
Fuel Pump Diagnosis
How To Replace an In-Tank Electric Fuel Pump
Troubleshoot Fuel Gauges
How Electronic Fuel Injection Works
Air/Fuel Ratios
What Is Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)?
Toyota Fuel Injection
Troubleshoot Fuel Injectors
Troubleshoot Electronic Fuel Injection Problems
Fuel System Diagnostics: Finding the Best Approach
Diagnosing Returnless Electronic Fuel Injection Systems
Intake Valve Deposits in Gasoline Direct Injection Engines
Gasoline Fuel Treatments
Troubleshooting & Cleaning Fuel Injectors
Fuel Filters
Electronic Throttle Control
Diagnose Cruise Control
Bad Gas Update 2006
Fuel Octane Ratings & Recommendations
Turbocharger Diagnosis & Repair
Basics of Supercharging
Diagnosing An Engine that Won't Crank or Start
Finding & Fixing Engine Vacuum Leaks
Fuel Pump Diagnosis Tips from Carter (PDF file).
Gasoline Quality Guide for Technicians (PDF file).
Ignition & Spark Plugs Articles
Spark Plug Technology
Don't Neglect the Spark Plugs
Why Spark Plugs Still Need To Be Replaced
Spark Plug Wires
Analyzing Ignition Misfires
Engine Won't Start, No Spark
Spark Plugs & Ignition Performance
Chevy Firing Orders
Chrysler Firing Orders
Ford Firing Orders
Distributor Ignition Systems
Distributorless Ignition Systems
Don't Use Ordinary Spark Plugs with Waste Spark DIS Ignition Systems
Coil-Over-Plug Ignition Systems
Multi-Coil Ignition Systems
Ignition Coil Diagnosis & Testing
Diagnosing Dead On Arrival Vehicles
Lubrication & Maintenance articles
Preventive Maintenance Chart
What Every Motorist Needs To Know About Motor Oil
New Motor Oil Specifications 2020
Motor Oils & Lubricants
How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
How To Change Your Oil
Certified Master Technicians Speak Out On Oil Change Intervals - June 2006
API Motor Oil Classifications
Watch Out for Obsolete "SA" Motor Oils (PDF file).
Motor Oil Additives
ZDDP - What is it & Why do you need it?
Motor Oil Viscosity
Re-Refined Motor Oil
Synthetic Motor Oil
Troubleshoot Low Oil Pressure
Oil Pump Diagnosis
Oil Pumps: The Heart of the Engine
Oil Filters
Car Maintenance: Changing FLuids, Filters, Belts & Hoses
Preventive Maintenance
5 Things Your Car May Need Now!
5 Things Your Car May Not Need
5 Ways To Save Money on Auto Repairs
BMW's Condition Based Service System
Winterizing Tips
How To Open A Frozen Car Door
Summerize Tips for Hot Weather Driving
Recommended Service Intervals from the Car Care Council (PDF file)
Replace Your Windshield Wipers
Automatic Transmission Fluid (types and applications)
Regular Fluid Flushes Good for Transmissions
Underhood Maintenance: Fluids, Filters, Belts & Hoses
Check Your Air Filter
Ford Focus PZEV 150K Sealed Air Filter
Cold Air Intake Systems
Cabin Air Filters
Misc. Articles
Auto Repair
Car Repair
Car Repair Advice
Automotive Tools for Repairing & Maintaining Your Car
Cordless Power Tools: Can They Replace Pneumatic Tools?
How to Weld Aluminum
Common Car problems (by symptom)
What Goes Wrong With Cars (and When)
Most Often Replaced Car Parts
Vehicle Reliability Ratings
How To Avoid Auto Repair Fraud, Scams and Rip-offs
Update on the Motorist Assurance Program (MAP)
New Car Lemon Laws
How Much Should It Cost To Fix Your Car?
Don't Get Overcharged for Auto Repairs
Auto Repair Facts for Consumers Provided By the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
How to Pay for Auto Repairs
New Car Warranty Coverage: What Is Covered, What Is Not
Got Car Trouble?
Where To Buy Auto Parts?
Watch Out for Counterfeit Auto Parts
Troubleshoot Odors Inside Your Car
Getting a Trailer Hitch How To Choose & Install one that is Right for You)
Repairing & Maintaining Trailer Brakes (mechanical & electric)
Safe Travel Tips
How To Buy A Good Used Car (and NOT a Lemon!)
Used Car Inspection Checklist (PDF file)
Used Car Dealer Tricks (How NOT to get cheated on the next used car you buy!)
My Advice for Selling, Trading or Getting Rid of Your Old Car or Truck
Used Car Information Resources
Insurance Resources
Speeding is NOT a Crime!!
Preventing Auto Theft
Study Finds Toxic Chemicals in Car Interiors
Defensive Driving Tips
Telematics (What Is It?)
Telematics: The Connected Car
Automotive Technician Training Resources
Test Your Automotive Knowledge Quizzes
Crappy Cars I Have Owned
My Favorite Cars
See Carley's BLOG for more
topics
New Vehicles & Technology Articles
Self-Driving Cars & Driverless Autonomous Vehicles: The Next Big Thing?
Should You Buy a Hybrid or Electric Car?
The Electric Car Revolution (Updated 04/2023)
ICE versus EV: It's a No_Brainer! (New 12/2022)
Which Costs More to Replace? A Car Engine or EV Battery?(New 01/2024)
Which is Better? a Diesel Engine or a Gasoline/Electric Hybrid?
Clean Diesel Technology
Biodiesel vs Diesel: Which Is Best?
What Is Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)?
Who Killed GM's EV1 Electric Car?
Electric Hybrid Vehicles: Toyota Prius - first generation
Hybrid Safety Hazards
Hybrid Vehicle Service Tips
Honda Civic Hybrid Battery Problems
Toyota Prius Diagnostics
Safety Related Articles
Recalls Don't Ignore Them!
Active Safety Systems
Car Fires
Common Sense Auto Repair Safety Tips
COVID-19 Virus and Your Car
Distracted Driving Poses Safety Risk
Drunk Driving: the Dangers, Deaths & DUIs
Driving Safety: How to Keep Yourself and Your Passengers Safe
Auto Accidents: Mechanical Problems That Increase Your Risk
Toyota Unintended Acceleration: Possible Causes
Toyota Recalls 2005 to 2008 Corolla & Matrix for Defective Engine Computer
Windstar Rear Axle Failure Recall
Battery Safety (Read This Before Jumping Starting, Charging or Replacing a Battery!)
Hybrid Safety Hazards
Hybrid Safety Information on Toyota Prius & other Toyota Vehicles
Milestones in Automotive Safety
Airbags & Crash Sensors
Airbag Recalls
NHTSA vehicle safety recalls
Study Finds Toxic Chemicals in Car Interiors
Tire Safety
Electronic Stability Control
Vehicle Crash Test Safety Ratings
Steering, Suspension & Tire Articles
Electric Power Steering
Power Steering Fluid
Variable-Assist Power Steering Systems
Troubleshoot Rack & Pinion Steering
Rack & Pinion Steering Inner Tie Rod Sockets
Correcting Steering Pulls
Torque Steer in FWD Cars
Do You Really Need All-Wheel Drive (or 4WD)?
Toyota Steering Recall
Watch Out For Old Tires
Used Tires - Are They Safe?
Why Tires Fail
What To Do If You Have A Flat Tire
Run-Flat Tires
Floor Jacks & Jack Stands (How to Safely Raise Your Vehicle)
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
TPMS Warning Light
Ford F150 Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Diagnose Tire Problems
Tire Wear (What to look for, how to reduce it)
Tires - When to Replace & What to Buy
Tire Dots: What Are They For?
Tire Rotation: When & How To Rotate Your Tires
Tire Inflation tips
Tire Safety
Tire Care Survey Results
Tire Valve Stems
Curing wheel & tire vibrations
Wheel Balancing
Diagnosing Causes of Suspension Vibrations
Wheel Alignment: Camber, Caster & Toe
Diagnosing Ride Control Problems
Strut Suspensions
Ball Joints: Inspection & Replacement Tips
Steering & Suspension Quiz
Tire Inflation Tips from Firestone (PDF file).
Tire Rotation Tips from Bridgestone (PDF file).
Sealed Wheel Bearing Hub Units
Wheel Bearing & Seal Service
Transmission, Clutch and Driveline Articles
Automatic Transmission Fluid & Filter Service
Automatic Transmission Fluid (types and applications)
Diagnosing Automatic Transmission Complaints
Automatic Transmission Slipping
About Electronic Automatiuc Transmissions
Chrysler 45RFE Automatic Transmission Shift Problems
Ford AX4S Automatic Transmission (Windstar & Taurus)
2021-22 Hyundai & KIA Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission Recall
Torque Converters (basic operation & diagnosis)
High Performance Torque Converters
Automatic Transmission Self-Test Quiz (Downloadable PDF file)
Common Clutch Problems
Clutch Service
Diagnosing & Replacing a Faulty Clutch
Clutch Installation Tips from LUK (PDF file)
Flywheel Resurfacing
Import Manual Transmission & clutch Service
Wheel Bearing & Seal Service
Sealed Wheel Bearing & Hub Units
4WD Locking Hub Service
More on Servicing 4WD Locking Hubs