Last updated: 8/2008

automotive troubleshooting car repair automotive wiring diagrams repairs engine codes BMW GM Ford Lincoln Mercury Chevrolet Jeep Dodge Oldsmobile Plymouth Pontiac Lexus Infinity Isuzu Jaguar Saab Chrysler Honda Hyundai Mazda Nissan BMW Mercedes Benz Audi Land Rover Toyota Volkswagen Volvo diagnosis engines automotive manuals
Get unlimited fixes and wiring diagrams emailed to you by a licensed mechanic 7 days a week anytime you have a problem!

Got Vehicle Problems? Whether you want to fix your vehicle yourself OR you need an excellent INFO before you talk to a garage... this SITE will save YOU money in car repairs!

Success!!!
RICHARD...you should have been here to see the smile on the wife's face
when for the first time in months; she could signal when turning!

The A/C lower fan speeds are working again! We no longer have to use a
pencil to shift the console transmission lever out of park! The anti-lock brakes
aren't pulsating and as a family we fill like we are no longer living in fear that
the next intersection will reveal a not so understanding police officer!

A thousand Thankyou's Richard for nailing the source of this puzzling problem
down and pointing me in the right direction as to the successful repair!

Bob B. from Texas,USA about his wife's 2000 Buick Regal

I got it!

I have 0.08 volt at the ecm (engine computer) and 1.2 volts at the map sensor terminals and obviously the wire has a short!

I cheated and replaced the wire and now it works fine with no codes with the same voltage end to end! I will chase the harness in the next week or so and find the culprit to prevent further damage to others.

Thanks for your help... Your email and wiring diagram really helped!

David W. from Georgia USA on his 1999 Chevy Astro.

Click "Play" button in the repair video below on how to save gas and save $200-$300 for servicing your own mass sensor:

Testimony continues...

"This baby sings like only an inline six can!!!

no more low rpm boog!
upshifts mean more instant speed!
14 mpg instead of 8mpg!

I'am a happy camper. you sent me down a different path that caused
different thinking. and I thank you . Sometimes you just get too focused,
and you need to step back and take a different approach.
thanks again.

Allan I. on his 1994 Jeep Wrangler

ATS works and SAVED me money...

Hi Rich,

I replaced the plugs and the MISS IS GONE! Old plugs look good. This engine was running rough like my corvette which does it when a plug fuel fouls. I almost changed my $300 camshaft actuator but your advice saved me over $200.

I could have done this myself but the advice you gave made it quicker for me.
I would recommend ATS to my fellow technicians because it's like having a spare brain in desperate times! The instructions are simple and practical that even ordinary folks can understand.

Thanks again,

Fred S. from NY USA

ASE certified master technician A1-8, L1 advanced level for 25 years and garage owner.

Fred made this comment on April 19.07 for his 2002 Trailblazer with 4.2L engine having a P0300 and P0301 misfiring codes.

Dear Internet Friends,

I have good news for you! Fixing "car repair" problems are actually easier nowadays than what the car dealers make you to believe. Newer vehicles are equipped with sensors, computers so that at the first sign of trouble, your car basically talks to you when it needs help.

(If it's not computerized, no problem too... car and truck repair basics are the same!).

And to help you further, ATS has prepared quick solutions so that fixing your car is so much easier for you!

Do you have these car repair problems?

No starts
Hesitation
Stalling
Cutting out
Misfiring
Poor idle
Surging
Over heating

Using engine oil

Failed emission test

Need cheap engine replacement?
Unable to get warranty repairs?

Can you use these common fixes?

Brake repairs?

Air conditioner repair?

Heater repair problems?
Front-end tire noise diagnosis?

ATS is an automotive Internet program that would help you fix the problem with a mechanic to help you one on one ONLINE. No solving your problem with a SOFTWARE or ROBOTS. This means you can basically solve the problem yourself because you can interact properly the REAL symptoms of the problem. The mechanic will then give REAL solutions with drawings that even an eight year old can understand.

Do you realize the POWER of this for you? This means with a click of the button, you get the latest INFO almost about anything AUTOMOTIVE! This means, if you want to fix the problem yourself, you are ARMED with latest and simplest solution to your problem OR,

YOU can check ANYBODY who wants to fix your car! ATS is backed by its massive database consisting of Automotive softwares, actual garages FIXES and EXPERIENCED technicians to help you solve your auto repair problem ONLINE (which means fixes are analyzed first and then emailed to you). Shown below are the technics used by ATS in fixing automotive engine electronics problems.

get the engine fault code or symptom for obd1 (1985-95 models) and obd2 (1996-2006 models)

verify and test the fault code or symptom

test the suspected component using illustrative
pictures and common tools

trace and verify the wiring diagrams to confirm connections

check ATS database for common repairs done by garages around the world

replace the defective part/s

clear the code/s

road test to verify that the old problem is fixed

FACT: Most vehicle problems when replacing parts without testing could lead to more expensive parts and wasted time. ATS avoids this!

Click on sample tools on top logo above and see how you can test it inexpensively!

To prevent guessing this is what experienced ATS technicians used when helping ATS customers ...

ATS has an extensive DATABASE of common fixes, illustrative pictures and wiring diagrams READY to be emailed to you!

For those who wants to take their vehicle to a repair garage, ATS will give you:

Check your repair estimates if it is fair

How to check if you got the best mechanic or garage

Test the work done after the vehicle came from a warranty job

give you proper advise on how to get warranty without going to court

practical quick solutions to problems with drawings like no-starts, hesitations, stalling, etc. so you can SAVE money

common tips about your vehicle before small problems began to escalate

give you the latest info like service bulletins and recalls

FACT: These TIPS alone will help you deal with ANY garages so you can prevent rip-offs!

And for those who want to fix their own vehicle ATS is there for you 7 days a week and it's like having your own SERVICE ADVISOR any time you want!

GM vehicle owners, did you know?

The common fix when your check engine lights, radio, gauges keeps turning on and off and it's not your engine computer doing it!

Quick tests in your ignition parts when your engine quits every time it rains.

What is the common warranty on your engine computer? 3 years? 5 years? (both wrong) You will be surprised a lot of people don't know this!

Tap this AC switch and your AC clutch will stop cycling on and off!

90% most common culprit when your engine has no-start problem?

Ford vehicles owners, do you think you can save on these?

Put this 30 cents jumper wire to your data link adapter and you can check your fuel pump before replacing it!

9 out of 10, this would cause your engine not to start when hot!

What info do you need when buying a used late model vehicle with "theft alarm" security device?

Before replacing your Fuel pump, do this 1-minute check to check this part and it might save you
money and time!

A simple $5 part will fix your AC problem of not cooling on hot days or after running good for half an hour!

Chrysler vehicle owners, can you use this info?

How to check your check engine light by just using your ignition key! !

What is the over-all effect of over heating on your AC system? You will be surprised by this report!

Reason why putting a used computer on engines with "theft alarm" will not fix your engine no-start problem!

Quickest way to test your fuel pumps on your mini van if the pump quit on you on the road? Guess what? NO tools needed!

Usual culprit if you have spark and fuel...and your exhaust is not restricted and still your vehicle won't start!

Import vehicle owners, did you know these?

Which import vehicle has the highest engine computer failure? Which imports have the minimum problems reported?

Most common culprit if your Honda Civic won't start!

When this BMW over heats, this engine part goes 90% of the time! !

As in Ford engines, this Toyota vehicle will never start until you push the gas pedal down! !

The most common sensor that will fail on Maxima 3.0L when your check engine light is on and has an intermittent no-start problem! !

These are just a few SAVINGS that ATS can give you! Let me caution you though that getting the code is NOT the only way to find your problem. Also, there are specific engines that won't simply give you the code. However, ATS will give you the alternatives so you can still FIX the problem by using the problem's symptoms.

For those who are not interested to do auto repairs, it would be to your advantage to at least learn how to check your car problems and then let the garage fix it for you. Better still, after they give you the vehicle, you know what to look for so that when you need warranty, you know for sure that you can get it.

Do you want to see more auto repair tips?
ATS sends you unlimited wiring diagrams and common fixes 7 days a week. Some VIDEOS are also included so you can see the circuit path flow and understand how components work. Save money, get it now.

Look at this example...

"I have a 91'S-10 Blazer and recently a new engine was installed a few days ago. I realized my oil pressure gauge would not respond unless I punched the accelerator. On my way to work today a horrible knocking was emanating from my engine. Please help me, with this I have put a lot of money in this truck and I do not want to get rid of it. Thank you."...

From a ATS prospect

From the story here...it is obvious that the person above has difficulty checking his/her engine after it was replaced. If he was an ATS member, I could have e-mailed to him/her what to look for and even what to say to the garage so that he/she could get a warranty.

Or try to analyze her problem...

"I just bought a 1992 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera and didn't make it but 10 miles when it shut down just like I had turned the key off. The engine would turn but not start, after letting it sit for 3 hours it started and I made it 8 miles before it shut down again. Letting it sit overnight; I finally made it the last 4 miles home where it shut down.
I was told by the car lot that I bought it as is, so I guess I am out my money plus $157.00 in new parts that was put on it today. A mechanic advised that it was either the Ignition control module and or the coil packs. All those have been put on the engine and it still won't run over 15 minutes without shutting down.

No warning lights come on, and it runs and sounds nice and quiet when it is running. Can you please give me some suggestions on what the problem could be and what I can do to fix it?"...From another ATS prospect

And this is what happened after she joined ATS!
"Just wanted to let you know that they came and got my car late last night and they fixed it today. Cost me $30.00 for the part, I must say that he seemed shocked when I knew what he was talking about. It was the crank sensor as you said. It drives like a dream now, with the exception that it needs new shocks I think.

Thank you so much for your help and kindness. I really had it last night, because when he left here, he left driving it and said he knew that car and he knew he could make it 30 miles without any trouble. He made it 15 and it died, but he owns a tow truck.I was amazed that he admitted it to me that it did it to him also"........................................Mary S. from Kentucky,USA.

Problems like these happen all the time, but how do you get a fair deal from a garage after you give them your money? ATS will show you how to get proper treatment from garages without going to court. OR when you do go to court, it will show how to do it right!

So even if you don't want to work on it, if you know what to say to your garage, then there is no chance that you vehicle will be repaired with SURPRISES.

Besides, these are the types of INFO that you will get:

How to pick a good garage/mechanic

How to check your vehicle after the garage gives it to you
Online support if you have doubts on their repairs

How to claim warranty
Tips on "rip-off" prevention
How to maintain your vehicle like the palm of your hand
Latest maintenance secrets used by big companies!
Which type of garages will give you the best value for your money?
Common problems that you need to fix ASAP or it costs you more!
New vehicle practices like warming up, and do you need them?

How to get a claim from a garage without going to court?

Important tips on over heating, trany testing, electrical, etc.

Which car brand you should beware because of numerous engine computer problems!

This is how ATS will help you fix your vehicle:
" For the people who cannot afford to have their vehicle fixed by the garages (that will charge you from $50-$75 an hour), and want to fix it themselves "

How to check the "check engine light"

Where to find the check engine light adapter link in your vehicle!

Give you the meaning of your check engine light code/s

Give you all the proven checks to verify that code
Send you all common solutions to the code from ATS database
If code/s are not available, ATS will give you the solution/s by using the symptoms
You will get wiring diagrams,drawings,pictures of the component you are investigating to make it easier for you
Verify for you the values of specs you are getting so you won't go in circles and waste your time.
Tell you which part(s) you can buy from the dealer or your local parts store so you can fix it right the first time!
Show you how to check any engine (even a used one) so that you will know if it's GOOD before you install it.
New vehicle practices like warming up, and do you need them?

Where to buy the cheapest engine after market computer

You will get monthly updates of all money saving tips and solutions in automotive industry.

How to fix Intermittent Troubleshooting Problem:
Intermittent problems are a pain in the neck. It does not occur all the time but when it does, it's when you least expect it. As a matter of fact, it will not even show itself when you take it to a mechanic. Examples are cutting out or stalling, surging, no-start, loss of power, hesitation, etc

Finally, ATS came up with these tests that allows you to check your engine components quickly. Also it will allow you to fix the problem even with out your engine displaying any engine fault code.

Here are some features:

How to test your fuel pump by watching your O2 reading

Quick way to check your EGR for defects

Common sensor to clean when you have hesitation

Hesitation accompanied by cutting out requires replacing this sensor
What connector to disconnect to check your timing?
Common sensors to disconnect when you have hesitation, stalling and cutting out.

Quickest way to chemically tune up your vehicle once a year

Do you know the right color of your spark when testing your coil?
These sensors have to be disconnected when testing for surging
The most common ignition part to replaced when you have stalling after warmed up.

This sensor has to be replaced when your engine will only start by pushing the gas pedal to the floor.

Check this sensor when you have no fuel and no spark.

Check this sensor when you have fuel but no spark.

This quick tap test will check your computer for defects.

Here's what people say about ATS:
Hello Rich, I ended up replacing the ecu with a new one. My truck did have the right one according to the part no. on the box - even though it wasn't good. Anyhow to make a long story short she started right up. That was five minutes ago. I'm going back to finish putting it all together. I really appreciate all your help. You were excellent and patient enough to see it through the end. Without you I probably would have replaced both fuel pumps at over $100 each and still had no results.
.......Randy S. (on his F150 ford truck)

Hi Rich I got the fuel injector/regulator today and installed it. Checked the pressure and it was 60 lbs and just stayed there. The truck runs the best its' run in 6 months HOORAY! Thanks for all your help and hopefully you won't hear from me for a while :-)
........Dave H. 1995 Chevy Blazer

Dear Rich, thank you for all of your help. ats is the best trouble shooting site on the web , I was very impressed with the direct response that I received to my questions. it only took 3 e-mails to get my no spark condition fixed with my 89' olds cutlass . my car is up and running as good as new thanks to ats. thanks again you are the best.. and will recommend you to all my buddies we will spend less time searching for the problem and more time enjoying the free time and money saved by fixing it ourselves. thanks
.......Jeremy (on his 1989 Cutlass)

"Hello Richard, You were right! I installed a Mazda clutch and the problem is gone. Thank you for your help!" .......Oscar R. (on his Mazda RX-7 1991 clutch problem)
Problem Solved! The picture is 99.9% the same. The hose that connects to the 6B608 nipple on the left side of the picture has an additional "L" shaped rubber connector that's not shown in the diagram. It adds a necessary 90-degree turn to the hose so it can connect to the nipple. And, it is in this "L" shaped connector I found a puncture. I plugged it with Motorcraft heat-sealing gasket compound from Ford and the problem disappeared! Thanks for guiding me in the right direction! Regards, . ...Paul S. (1998 Ford Escort)

I found a blown fuse in the engine compartment (at the relays) which fixed the problem - both the check engine light and the fuel pump work now. Thank you for your cooperation! .......Stefan H. (1993 Ford Taurus.)

Thanks Richard,The procedure below worked like a champ in about a minute and a half. I would have never figured that out on my own!!! I figured the system had a reset but just didn't know how or where! ......Kevin S. (1998 Plymouth Voyager)

Thanks Richard: Good exploded view, easy to interpet and I love the extras you have included which you do not get with a service manual. Telling me not to touch the strut bolts has already saved me the costs of an alignment. Thanks for your help. .........Clyde S. (1995 Toyota Camry)

Thank you! i replaced the heat control panel and Wallah! AC is back! ........Renee H. (1993 Caravan )

I recently had a problem with some routine transmission work done on my vehicle. The garage fixed the problem ok but created another which ultimately resulted in my car catching fire and being destroyed. To add insult to injury, I later found out that they had charged me three times the usual charge for the privilege. I tried to resolve this with the garage but because I have no knowledge of the workings of a vehicle and the manager was treating me like the "little female", I was really fighting a losing battle. I needed help from somebody that was independent and knew what they were talking about. I contacted several sights on the internet but the only site to reply with useful information was Rich at the ATS site. He talked to me in depth about the problem and gave me invaluable information to help me. It is very reassuring to know that there are professionals out there that are prepared to help. .........Sandra W. (1989 Dodge Sundance)

Can you afford not to have this INFO nowadays?

I doubt it. Actually, it's just like having a mechanic friend whom you can contact every time you have problems with your vehicle. Even if you don't like to make your hands dirty, knowing what to say to your garage/mechanic can help you protect yourself from RIP-OFFS!

And if you really want to fix the vehicle yourself, being a member of ATS gives you the latest info like updated service bulletins and recalls, labor and parts instructions that could save you money on parts and labor thereby making your repair quicker and economical.

ATS COURSE PRICE:
So how much do you think this ATS course costs you? For the amount of savings that I mentioned above, I bet this can sell easily for $300 because of the savings you will have in just one trip to the garage. For a limited time, I am selling this for $97.00 (US). That is if you buy before midnight tonight! I will also include the following BONUSES:

Bonus One
FREE online support by e-mail if you have questions about your car. The email instructions will come with drawings and wiring diagrams so you can understand it. We will work together until your car problem is solved. (This has unlimited value especially if your vehicle breaksdown in strange places and if you can access a computer, you can access ATS!).

Bonus Two
FREE 6 months subscription for the LATEST car repair SOLUTIONS and STRATEGIES that ATS compile every month.
(A $100 value)

Bonus Three
Get the ATS data link code adapter locator instructions and drawing for your vehicle. Discover how to get your engine Fault code yourself and save yourself a trip to the garage! Good up to 2006 for BOTH domestic and imports (depending on vehicle make). ATS will also supply the meaning of the codes that you get.( A $100 value)

Bonus Four
Free Service Bulletins and Recalls information for all vehicle models up to 2005. This will cover BOTH domestics and imports. (a bulletin number and complete description of the bulletin will be emailed to you upon your request). Now you will know if you qualify for ANY warranty. A priceless value.

Bonus Five
Save 50% or more on your next engine replacement. Using ATS INFO, find out how to check the engine accurately so you know it's good before installing it on your vehicle. (A $300 value)

Bonus Six
Unlimited wiring diagram ONLINE assistance on any vehicles up to 2006 models. This is excellent if you have difficulty using wiring diagrams and complicated service manuals. This includes any WIRING DIAGRAM you need for any vehicle both domestics and imports ($300 value)
Remember: You will get these as long as you are a member of ATS with NO monthly charges.

Get these ATS troubleshooting SECRETS:

How to check your engine fault codes (and the FIXES) using everyday tools for both domestic and imported vehicles.

How to get ANY fault code for FREE in your location if you see your "service engine light" in your dash! ( for ANY car )

Engine quitting after warmed-up? I will show you how to use your common hair dryer to test your defective sensors!

Common easy tests for sensors by unplugging them (comes with illustrative pictures or wiring diagram).

Secrets used by mechanics to test your engine computer using: your hand, magnifying glass, hair dryer, house freezer and common tester.

Quick way to remove a HOT spark plug in tight places using a 3/8" vacuum hose!

How to test ANY relays in your engine including it's location, wirings diagram by using your finger and common tester.

How to test misfiring using a spray bottle filled with water.

How to test multi-wire Oxygen sensors and check your Catalytic converter too!

Quick tests for your AC and your HEATER system plus why your cooling system plays a major role? .

Don't buy any sensor if your engine hesitates or misfires... you can service it and we will show you how!

Transmission starting to slip? Buy this special oil from the dealer and it will buy you time and get your trany running like new!

Why you don't need your distributor assembly on latest model engines. Is it just for decoration?

What do you check if there is no-start? These 2 SIMPLE tests will tell you right away if you have an ignition or fuel problem or both!

What is the quickest way to check your timing belt? Especially if one of the cam gear jumped one tooth?

Can you still bleed your brakes the old way if you have ABS? Don't waste your time... ATS will give you the RIGHT answer!

Why you need to unplug this trany sensor if you suspect your trany is going? Know this secret before the trany garage sells you a trany assembly!

You have a 98 model onwards of GM Pickups, it shakes at 45-60 mph and you unplug this sensor and the problem gone! What sensor is this?

How to test your ABS sensors like a pro and save your money.

Or get these right NOW....DEMO Troubleshooting VIDEOS so you can do vehicle repairs quickly!

See the video and learn quickly how mechanics do it!

VIDEO demo on how to test your spark in 2 minutes!
VIDEO demo on how to test your fuel injector in under 5 minutes!
VIDEO demo on how to restore your engine performance and SAVE gas! (priceless)

VIDEO demo on how to test your engine computer so you can see the way it is done

VIDEO demo on how to use ATS wiring diagram to guide you in tracing the ecm parts

These are just examples of what you will get if you join ATS right NOW!

To order ATS now, click here
(Security Insured by SSL Technology)

You don't take the RISK, it's on me:
Within 90 days, after going through this course-ware and you do not agree that this is worth far more than you paid, just e-mail me a "refund" message. I will refund your money with no questions whatsoever. You can then keep all the information supplied to you as a gesture of thanks for taking the time.
OR here's the final offer:

Buy and try this ATS Course right now to solve your important problem that you want fixed. If within a week you are not happy with the service, claim your refund and you can keep all the software, instructions, drawings and wiring diagrams.

Or better still, here is the BEST offer:

Join TODAY and get a LIFETIME membership for 2 vehicles! (which includes common fixes, wiring diagrams and pictures, plus service bulletins and recalls for any 2 cars or trucks you own, BOTH domestic or import). This is like having the secret of what garages use to fix their vehicle problems, and fix them FAST!

If you join TODAY and you happen to like it, I will COVER you for all your (2)vehicle problems for it's LIFETIME! Yes! As long as you own the same 2 vehicles, ATS will be there for you! Try finding any service that would match this. Imagine how much you will save!

New Bonuses if you order LIFETIME membership TODAY:

Quick repair tricks to your window defogger including part number of repair kit.
10 minutes test (no tools) if your car heater is not working!
Under 2 hours test of your engine computer to check your sensors! (all you need is a voltmeter)
Where to call if you need your engine computer checked!
Easy way to determine if your catalytic converter is shot?
After resetting your Caddy computer, how do you "relearn it"?
Multiple engine codes and no start when cold means what?
Fastest way to test your starters and sensors during no start ( when HOT) completed under 2 minutes.
Exact location of your computers, relays and sensors if you need to service it.
Quick way to test your automatic transmission (under one minute) if your vehicle won't move?
What does your ignition key contain if you have a vehicle anti-theft alarm? Bypass it?

To get ATS lifetime membership ($97.00 USD), CLICK HERE

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NOTE: This offer is only good if you order in the next 4 hours. (Join NOW so you don't forget). Also, you are entitled to a 90 days full refund guarantee if you don't like the service. This LIFETIME offer is for PRIVATE or PERSONAL use only and NOT meant for commercial purposes, otherwise, for business special rates:
Click Here!

Special Attention:

If your car or truck is now in distress because you need the following fixes:

Engine no starts or any sensor/computer solutions
Service dash lights and obd codes remedies
Power train, AC, heating, brakes, steering, suspension or alignment problem solutions
Difficult and hard to get wiring diagrams, sensor locations, pictures,etc.
Join ATS TODAY and I promise to start giving you the fixes within 2 hours of your membership and I will stay with you by email until it is fixed! If you are not happy within 90 days, you get your money back! Remember: Coverage is good up to 2006 models for BOTH Imports and Domestic! YOU will save money and here's the proof that emailing the fixes work...Click Here!

Remember: If ATS does not fix your vehicle problem, it is FREE! ( and even if you don't need it today, for your safety and money, join ATS now so you are prepared when car/truck trouble comes. The FIX is just an email way!)

Yours truly,

Richard M.Trent
786 Coral Spring Blvd. NE. Calgary,
Alberta, CANADA
Tel: 403 207 0592
Professional Background:
Automotive garage owner in Calgary, 1985-1995
Automotive consultant in Calgary since 1997
Licensed automotive and HD (diesel) Technician 1980
BSME (mechanical engineering) graduate, 1971