Questions and Answers
Quick, consumer-friendly answers pulled from this episode—collision repair quality, smart diagnostics, maintenance tips, and must-have car gear.
What should I do if a body shop repair doesn’t seem right after an accident?
Don’t ignore weird warnings, bad fitment, or anything that feels unsafe. Get an independent post-collision inspection so you have clear documentation of what’s right and what isn’t. If safety systems need calibration, push to have it verified and corrected.
Why are ADAS calibrations such a big deal after collision repair?
Systems like automatic braking and forward sensors depend on proper aiming and calibration. If it’s not done, the car may react at the wrong time or not react when it should. After a collision, always ask what calibrations were required and whether they were completed.
Can Carfax reliably tell me how bad a vehicle’s past collision damage was?
It can be a helpful clue, but the show pointed out that the categories can be too broad to explain what really happened. “Minor” vs “moderate” doesn’t always reflect the true scope of repairs. When in doubt, a qualified inspection matters more than a label.
Why do people accidentally drive off with the gas pump hose attached?
It usually comes down to distraction and rushing—especially when you’re juggling a phone call or a busy morning. The crew recommends doing a quick “cross-check” before pulling away: look back, confirm the handle is hung up, and make sure you don’t see a hose in the mirror.
What happened with the $2 bottle of water that turned into an $11,882 repair?
In the story shared on the show, a hard stop spilled a bottle of water into the rear area and it soaked wiring under the carpet. That moisture damaged electrical components and created major issues. It’s a reminder that where wiring runs inside a vehicle can matter more than you’d expect.
If my check engine light shows a code, can I just replace the part it mentions?
Not always. The show’s turbo underboost example was a classic case: replacing the turbo didn’t fix the problem because the real issue was elsewhere. A proper diagnostic test can save you from paying for parts you didn’t need.
My lawnmower won’t start—oil is good, new plug, air filter changed. What’s next?
The show leaned toward fuel delivery and carburetor issues, especially if fuel has sat and gummed things up. Draining old fuel, trying fresh fuel, and carefully cleaning the carb/lines can help. Also verify you have spark safely instead of guessing.
On a high-mileage truck, when is a transmission fluid exchange worth considering?
If shifting feels okay but you’re hearing concerning noises, having the fluid condition checked is a smart next step. The show recommended a full fluid exchange approach that replaces more of the old fluid than a simple pan drain. A technician should road-test it first and advise based on what they hear and see.
What are practical Christmas gifts for someone who works on cars or drives a lot?
The crew suggested four winners: cordless tools, a cordless tire inflator, a battery maintainer for vehicles that sit, and a portable jump starter. These are the kind of items that prevent breakdowns and make emergencies easier. They also fit nicely in a garage or in the vehicle.
What can I do if a new vehicle is stuck at the dealer waiting on a backordered part?
Start by escalating the conversation with dealership management and the manufacturer’s customer support. Keep a paper trail of dates, repair attempts, and what you’ve been told. The show also mentioned checking your state’s lemon law options if the repair can’t be completed in a reasonable time.
