While I very much appreciate the work that dealership service departments do, one of the things that annoys me about them is their tendency to recommend unnecessary maintenance. A couple of common examples of unnecessary maintenance would be: A/C Service – Often, this is nothing more than a visual inspection of the air conditioning system, a […]
Category: Maintenance & Repairs
Car Dealership Customer Service Tips
Tips and strategies for getting good customer service from your local car dealer when you have a problem.
Toyota Engine Codes – P0420
Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 1 What it means: OBD-II code P0420 represents a problem with the catalyst system on your Toyota. The catalytic converter on your Toyota is an integral part of your vehicle’s exhaust system. This part looks like a small muffler, but its purpose is to reduce vehicle emissions through […]
Toyota Engine Codes – P0401
Insufficient EGR Flow What it means: OBD-II code P0401 represents a problem with your EGR system Exhaust gas recirculation is referred to as EGR, and it’s an integral part of your Toyota’s emissions system. The EGR is used to reduce the combustion temperature and pressure to limit oxides of nitrogen. There are three parts to the […]
My Brakes Are Pulling Right or Left – Why?
When you apply the brakes while driving, the brake system should slow and stop straight and true. If you are experiencing any pull from your vehicle while braking, it could be any number of things that are causing the problem. Here are the usual suspects that lead to brake pull.
How to Tell If Your Vehicle Needs Alignment
A vehicle is aligned to its suspension — a proper alignment offers control and stability. Daily driving can affect the alignment since roads can be rough, and can stress the shocks, springs, and the rest of the suspension. Here are some indicators that your vehicle may need an alignment: Tires exhibit uneven wear on the outside. […]
Ask AAA: Can Draining My Car’s Battery Effect My Gas Mileage?
Question: I’ve got a newer Toyota minivan and I completely killed the battery a few weeks ago. While I got a new battery, my Sienna has been acting strangely ever since I killed the battery. My fuel mileage is off, and it doesn’t “feel” the same when I drive it. Did I damage my van when […]
My Brakes Are Making Noise – What Does It Mean?
Are your brakes squeaking, squealing, or grinding? Don’t let the problem continue! You can often make an educated guess about brake problems with your ears, as different brake problems have different noises. Here’s what you need to know.
Toyota Cars Steering Lock Engaged Tech Tip
Toyota is advising technicians to be on the look out for an unusual situation where some Toyota vehicles will have a locked steering wheel even after starting the vehicle. A message might be displayed that says a steering lock is engaged. There is no immediate safety concern, more of an annoyance.
2013 Scion FR-S Abnormal Chirp Squeak – TSB
Toyota has released a technical service bulletin for the 2013 Scion FR-S to address an abnormal noise coming from the car’s high pressure fuel pump assembly. Read on if your vehicle is making a strange noise.