Early Automatic Transmission Failure: What I’ve Learned in 25 Years Alright, let’s get straight to it. If you’re reading this, your transmission is probably acting up, or you’re worried it…
Ford
Which VW, Audi, and Ford models with DCT most commonly need a mechatronic unit replacement?
Look, if you’ve been turning wrenches on VWs, Audis, or Fords with dual-clutch transmissions (DCTs) for any length of time, you know the drill. A car rolls in, shuddering, lurching,…
Why do Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux pickup trucks break driveshafts when off-roading?
Alright, let’s talk about a broken driveshaft. If you’ve ever had one let go, you know it’s not a fun day. And if you haven’t, well, you’re about to learn…
Why does a DCT (like Ford PowerShift) go into limp mode after spinning its wheels in snow?
So, Your Ford Went Into Limp Mode After Spinning in the Snow? I’ve Seen It. It’s a frustrating situation, and one I’ve seen dozens of times in my shop, especially…
Why Do Rear Trailing Arms Crack on Ford Focus Mk2/Mk3?
Recognizing the Problem: When Your Trailing Arm Shouts Look, if you’re driving a Ford Focus, especially a Mk2 or Mk3, and you’re hearing weird noises from the back, pay attention.…
Why does the steering column have up-and-down play in some cars (Ford Focus Mk2, Opel Astra H)?
Steering Wheel Wobble: Diagnosing Vertical Play in the Column You hop in your car, grab the steering wheel to pull yourself in, and feel it shift up and down with…
How to Calibrate an Electronic Parking Brake Without a Dealer Scanner (VW, Ford, Hyundai Examples)
You just finished a rear brake job, maybe swapped out the pads, or even the rotors. You put everything back together, fire up the car, and BAM! Your dashboard lights…
Why does the Ford EcoBoost or VW TSI engine control module require VIN programming?
Why Your New Ford EcoBoost or VW TSI Engine Computer Needs VIN Programming Alright, let’s talk about Engine Control Modules, or ECMs. I’ve been turning wrenches for over 25 years,…
Why Does the Heater Core Leak Inside the Cabin on Some Cars (Like the Ford Focus Mk2)?
Alright, let’s talk about heater cores. This isn’t one of those subtle problems that creeps up on you. When a heater core decides to let go, it usually makes itself…
Why Do Ford EcoBoost (1.0L, 1.5L, 2.0L) Electric Water Pumps Fail So Often?
If you’ve got a Ford EcoBoost—any of the common ones like the 1.0L, 1.5L, or 2.0L—and the cooling system is acting up, the electric water pump (EWP) is almost always…
Why Do Some Cars (Like Ford, GM) Require TPMS Relearn After Every Tire Remount?
You just got new tires or a rotation, pressures are dead-on, and that damn yellow tire symbol won’t shut up. I see this at least three times a week in…
Why does the fuel tank get sucked in or collapse on some cars (like the Ford Focus Mk2)?
You see a lot of strange things in 25 years under a hood, but a collapsed fuel tank? That one always gets people talking. It’s not just a dent; it’s…
Common water pump failures in Ford Duratec HE 2.0L and 2.3L engines
Alright, let’s talk about the Ford Duratec 2.0L and 2.3L water pump. If you own a Focus, Fusion, Escape, or Ranger with one of these engines, listen up. This isn’t…
Yellow Smoke and Turbo Trouble Codes on Ford EcoBoost (1.0L/1.5L/2.0L): Diagnosis and Fixes
If you’re driving a Ford EcoBoost and you’re seeing smoke out the tailpipe, or maybe the check engine light is on, you’re probably worried about the turbo. And you should…