#2012 - Calibrations, Vibrations & Car Scams

Our shop-style coolant exchange typically uses a chemical cleaner first, then a machine pulls the old coolant out. It creates a vacuum on the system and refills it with the correct amount of coolant so you don’t trap air pockets. Keeping air out is a big part of preventing corrosion and cooling problems.

If there’s something inside a tire—like water from sitting outside—it can move around as you drive and act like an ever-changing imbalance. That’s why it can be balanced multiple times and still shake around 45 mph. A shop may need to dismount the tire and make sure it’s clean and dry inside.

A post-collision inspection is a detailed look at the repairs after you get the vehicle back, especially if something feels off. It can uncover poor workmanship or missed damage that isn’t obvious from the outside. In the episode, a vehicle was ultimately totaled because the underlying repairs were unsafe.

Modern cars rely on cameras, radar, and sensors that work together, and a collision can knock them out of spec. A proper repair often includes scanning for codes and performing required calibrations so features like emergency braking work correctly. Skipping those steps can leave safety systems malfunctioning even if the car ‘looks’ repaired.

For many everyday drivability jobs, aftermarket tools can read common codes and data just fine. But some collision-related and brand-specific functions may be behind a ‘wall’ that only the OEM tool can access. In the episode, Honda was noted as being very specific about using their software for pre- and post-scans after a collision.

Photo-based tools can miss hidden damage and system requirements until the vehicle is torn down and inspected. That first number is often just a starting point, and a supplement gets filed once the shop finds additional needed repairs. Don’t panic at the initial low figure—make sure the shop documents everything correctly.

Don’t wire money for a vehicle you can’t verify and inspect, and be cautious of ‘too good to be true’ pricing. Be careful with so-called escrow accounts unless you can verify they’re handled by a trusted, independent company. When possible, work through reputable dealers or brokers and confirm the seller actually owns the vehicle.

Use anti-theft screws on your license plate to make quick plate removal harder. Also watch for key-fob jammers: don’t just press the button—look for the lights to flash or listen for the locks to engage. Basic habits like confirming your car is locked can prevent a lot of headaches.

Rodents can be attracted to certain wire insulation and will move into warm engine bays in cold weather. One tip shared was parking with the hood open in certain areas so it doesn’t feel like a safe, enclosed space. Some people also use rodent deterrent sprays, especially for stored vehicles.

A clogged or moldy cabin air filter can make the air inside the car smell musty and may aggravate allergies. It’s often a simple replacement, though some vehicles take more time to access. If you’re due, replacing it can make the cabin air noticeably fresher.