My 1st instinct is just to take it in for a tune-up an dsee how that goes but if I am gonna spend some money so I want it to be worthwhile. The car is kinda shuttering and almost feels like it is going stall at stops. The check engine light comes on and off every once in a while too. Is there a typical diagnostic I can ask for (and about how much would that cost)?
2007-02-16 05:57:42 · 4 answers · asked by St. Judy's comet 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
If the CHECK ENGINE light has been coming on, you need to have the "trouble codes" checked. A mechanic will need to use a scanner. This test will tell what circuit or system is malfunctioning. It probably will not fix the problem. If you call and tell them the symptoms (like you did here) they will run the test to know if there is one or more problems. This test can run from FREE to $70.00. Now that the mechanic knows which system is causing the trouble, they will do a specific test on the components to determine what is bad. You are entitled "by law" to receive an estimate prior to the repairs.
You need to locate an ASE certified mechanic or repair shop. DO NOT GO to the next door neighbor or a shade-tree mechanic. You may only need a tune up but without checking the computer, you are not correcting the main problem.
2007-02-16 06:10:58 · answer #1 · answered by RICK C 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The best thing you can do is explain exactly what the problem is and ask for an estimate. Don't get anything done just an estimate. Now shop around to other places by phone and describe what was recommended and see if they agree. Until you find a good mechanic that you can trust, you will get all kinds of opinions.I think it could be from a miss-fire or a problem with the Idle Air Control (IAC) but it's hard to diagnose over the net.
2007-02-16 14:10:38 · answer #2 · answered by Lab 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Explain just the way you have explained to us. Don't go into detail as to what YOU think it might be as you will get that tune up you suggested. He will also put that vacuum hose back on that has came off and was the only cause of the problem.. Ask them to please check it out and give you an estimate as to what repairs are required and why, also what caused it. Try and select a reputable firm if you don't have someone that you trust from the past. If in doubt get another opinion. It only takes one rotten apple to spoil the whole barrel.
2007-02-16 17:14:27 · answer #3 · answered by parkmistyred 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't ask to have any specific work done; just ask the mechanic to do a diagnostic check on it, report what's wrong or needs fixing, and then decide what you'd like him to do. That way, you won't get any nasty surprises ("Oh, my dear - the engine was dying so we had to replace it; you owe us two thousand eight hundred dollars, plus labor!").
2007-02-16 14:04:25 · answer #4 · answered by Kiffin # 1 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋