It was a Tuesday morning in late September when Mrs. Chen rolled into my bay with her 2016 Honda Accord. “It just doesn’t go anymore,” she said, frustration clear in her voice. She’d press the gas pedal to merge onto the highway, and the car would wheeze like an asthmatic trying to run a marathon. … Read more
Quick Answer:A rough idle is often caused by vacuum leaks, a dirty or faultyidle air control valve(IAC),worn spark plugs, or clogged fuel injectors. Start diagnosis with an OBD2 scan for codes, check for vacuum leaks, and inspect plugs and the IAC. Many fixes are DIY-friendly and cost under $200. It was a cold December morning … Read more
Start with a scan tool to pull codes (P0300–P030x). Then swap coils or plugs between cylinders and see if the misfire follows. 90% of random misfires are ignition-related; 8% are fuel; 2% are mechanical. It Started on a Freezing January Morning It was 7:42 a.m., 18°F outside, and the shop phone rang. “My Chevy Silverado … Read more
It was a sweltering July afternoon in the shop. I was elbow-deep in a Toyota Camry’s timing cover when my service writer Jake walked in with that look — the one that says “you’re not gonna believe this one.” “We’ve got a 2017 Honda Accord out front. Customer says it’s shaking like a paint mixer. … Read more