Backyard Mechanic Articles
BACKYARD MECHANIC: Faulty computer behind door-locking problem
QUESTION: I have a 2005 Impala and recently I am not able to lock any of the four doors. To open it is not a problem. When I try to click to lock, I can't. I'm a professional electrical engineer so I checked the fuse-box relay, which I even hear …
June 30, 2011
AUTO TECH: How to avoid grinding to a halt
Brake fluid is one of the most overlooked maintenance items on any vehicle. While many auto manufacturers don't list brake-fluid replacement on their maintenance schedules, this is a low cost measure that, if done every couple years, can extend the life of expensive brake components such as ABS and traction-control …
June 24, 2011
BACKYARD MECHANIC: Use grease to diagnose car's knocking noise
Use grease to diagnose car's knocking noise
QUESTION: I recently bought a 2006 Golf hatchback in excellent shape and very low mileage. The problem is there is a 'knocking' noise when turning. The gentleman I bought this from took it to the dealer and they informed him that it really wasn't a problem. But to me it …
June 24, 2011
AUTO TECH: Honda Hybrid achieves new level of efficiency
HONDA's Civic has been available as a hybrid model for nearly a decade in North America and, although the basic premise of utilizing an electric motor to assist the gasoline engine (Honda's Integrated Motor Assist) has been consistent, improvements in design and operation have been continuous. For the 2012 Civic Hybrid, …
June 17, 2011
BACKYARD MECHANIC: Ignition coil problem could cause stalling
QUESTION: Through an estate I received a '91 Century, 20,000 km, in perfect condition. It was driven two or three kilometres at a time, 1,000 km or so a year. I gave it to my grandson and he drove about 10,000 km the past year, mostly in the city. Last …
June 17, 2011
AUTO TECH: Wheel-bearing maintenance vital in trailers
With summer soon here, there will be many drivers towing trailers again. It may be a small utility trailer to get landscaping supplies, a boat trailer for some fun at the lake, or a travel trailer for some adventure across the country. Unfortunately, I've seen many trailers stranded on the side …
June 10, 2011
BACKYARD MECHANIC: Shimmy problem could be tie rod or tire
QUESTION: I have a '93 Buick Regal 3.8 V6. I have a problem with the steering wheel shimmying and I can't find the problem. I replaced the wheel bearing on the driver side only; there is play in the inner tie rod or outer tie rod but I can't find …
June 10, 2011
AUTO TECH: Mazda technology aims to boost fuel economy
You will be hearing a lot about Mazda SKYACTIV technology in the coming years. SKYACTIV started with research back in 2007 and part of it is being introduced to Canada with the 2012 Mazda3. SKYACTIV is more than just one technology, and is the result of Mazda's commitment to improve fuel …
June 3, 2011
BACKYARD MECHANIC: Leak, dirty injector may be misfire's cause
QUESTION: I have a 1998 Audi A6 with a 2.8 L Quattro and 140K km. It has code P0304 (misfire for cylinder No. 4), which translates primarily into roughness at idle and chatter in the throttle under light throttle pressure. Under acceleration, there is no detectable miss and it appears …
June 3, 2011
AUTO TECH: Safety value of tires not overinflated issue
ONE of the key safety items on our vehicles is its tires. They are all that give us directional control and stopping ability. They also have a big effect on fuel economy, and saving fuel seems to be on many drivers' minds. Looking after your tires takes little time and …
May 27, 2011