We love our engines
The $3 Filter That Nearly Killed a $28,000 Engine It was sweltering in the Bay Area last August—104°F with that dry, dusty Central Valley wind blowing through the shop doors. A woman pulled up in a 2019 Toyota RAV4, saying it “just doesn’t feel right.” Hesitation on takeoff, rough idle at red lights, and that … Read more
Quick Answer: An engine compression test measures the pressure in each cylinder to diagnose issues like worn piston rings, leaking valves, or a blown head gasket. A healthy engine should have compression between 125-175 PSI per cylinder, with no more than 10% variation between cylinders. The Day I Diagnosed a “Dead” Engine with a $40 … Read more
It was 3:47 PM on a sweltering Tuesday in July when Mrs. Henderson’s 2012 Toyota Camry rolled into my bay. “It’s making this weird hissing sound, and the idle keeps dropping so low I think it’s going to stall,” she said, wiping sweat from her brow. I’ve heard this story hundreds of times, and my … Read more
Quick Answer: That ticking sound? 8 times out of 10 it’s hydraulic lifters needing oil flow or fuel injectors doing their normal business. But if it’s loud, irregular, or changes with engine speed—especially after an oil change—check lifter noise first. Exhaust leaks and timing chain issues are serious but less common. Diagnose properly before spending money! … Read more
By ASE-Certified Master Automotive Technician A Rainy Tuesday Misfire Mystery It was 7:45 AM on a rainy Tuesday when Sarah pulled into my shop in her 2016 Honda Civic, the check engine light blinking like a frantic strobe light. “It’s shaking like crazy,” she said, her voice filled with concern. “I’m afraid to drive it … Read more