DIY Repairs

Smart DIY repairs from a 17-year mechanic. Learn what to fix, how to fix it, and how to save money on every job.

Electromechanic using diagnostic scanner to find why car won’t start.

Car Won’t Start? Let’s Find Out Why Together.

That feeling when you turn the key and nothing happens is the worst. Don’t stress! I’ve been an electromechanic for over 17 years, and I’m here to guide you through it. Most of the time, a car won’t start for one of these three simple reasons: Poor Electrical Connections: Corrosion on your battery terminals is blocking the power. […]

Car Won’t Start? Let’s Find Out Why Together. Read More »

Driver looking at anti-theft warning light on car dashboard — anti-theft system won’t let my car start.

Anti-Theft System Won’t Let My Car Start: Real Fixes from a Mechanic’s Toolbox

That sinking feeling when you turn the key and nothing happens? I’ve seen it for 17 years as an electromechanic. If your anti-theft system won’t let your car start, I can help. Here’s the simple truth: your car’s computer doesn’t recognize your key. A weak key fob battery, a glitch from a dead car battery, or

Anti-Theft System Won’t Let My Car Start: Real Fixes from a Mechanic’s Toolbox Read More »

Close-up of a car temperature gauge indicator showing engine temperature between C and H on a vehicle dashboard.

Car Temperature Gauge Explained: Normal Range and Real Solutions

I can’t tell you how many times a customer has leaned over my shoulder, pointed a worried finger at their dashboard, and asked me: “What should my car temperature gauge be at?” After 17 years as an electromechanic, my answer is always the same: Right in the middle. To be precise, your car’s temperature gauge should settle steadily at

Car Temperature Gauge Explained: Normal Range and Real Solutions Read More »

water is leaking from my car: Clear water dripping under a car from AC condensation — normal leak.

Water Is Leaking from My Car: Causes, Fixes, and Expert Tips from a Mechanic with 17 Years of Experience

You know the feeling. You’re heading out, coffee in hand, and there it is. A suspicious puddle right under your engine. Your heart sinks a little as you think, “Why is my car leaking water?” Believe me, you’re not alone. In my shop, I see that same confused and worried look almost every single day.

Water Is Leaking from My Car: Causes, Fixes, and Expert Tips from a Mechanic with 17 Years of Experience Read More »

EPC light on car dashboard showing a warning for an engine or throttle issue.

EPC Light on A Car: Meaning, Causes & Fixes from a Mechanic’s Perspective

That little “EPC” light glowing on your dashboard can send a shiver down any driver’s spine. I get it—it’s a vague warning that can mean a dozen different things. But take a deep breath. You’ve found your answer. For 17 years as an electromechanic, I’ve been the guy people bring their cars to when this

EPC Light on A Car: Meaning, Causes & Fixes from a Mechanic’s Perspective Read More »

Mechanic inspecting brakes to diagnose why a car shakes when braking at high speeds.

Why Your Car Shakes When Braking (and How to Stop It for Good)

That shudder in your steering wheel? I know the instant panic it causes. When your car shakes when braking, your mind jumps straight to safety and scary repair bills. I’ve been there myself. For 17 years in my shop, I’ve been the one diagnosing this exact worry for customers. You’ve found the right guide. Let’s

Why Your Car Shakes When Braking (and How to Stop It for Good) Read More »

Car Leaking Oil? Here’s How a Mechanic Finds the Source

Car Leaking Oil? Causes, Fixes & Expert Tips from a Mechanic with 17 Years of Experience

Find Every Answer You Need About Oil Leaks—From Cause to Cure Spot a new oil stain on your driveway? I see them every single day in my shop. After 17 years as an electro-mechanic, I can tell you it’s usually one of these usual suspects: a loose drain plug, a tired old oil filter, or

Car Leaking Oil? Causes, Fixes & Expert Tips from a Mechanic with 17 Years of Experience Read More »

gearbox oil change

Gearbox Oil Change: Everything You Need to Know from a Mechanic with 17 Years of Experience

You’re here because you need straight talk about gearbox oil change, and you need to know if this is a job you can handle in your own driveway. Let’s cut to the chase. Right off the bat, here’s the single most important piece of advice I can give you after 17 years: Find the fill plug

Gearbox Oil Change: Everything You Need to Know from a Mechanic with 17 Years of Experience Read More »

timing belt kit and ingine motor

Timing Belt Replacement Cost & Intervals: 2025 Mechanic’s Guide

Let’s talk about one of the most critical and most misunderstood services in the shop: the timing belt replacement. If you’re here, you’re either hearing a faint ticking from behind the timing cover, your mileage is creeping up on that big interval, or you just got a quote that made your eyes water. Maybe you’re

Timing Belt Replacement Cost & Intervals: 2025 Mechanic’s Guide Read More »