Auto Repair Articles

Question:

I have a 2002 with code p1457, what is the easiest way to fix the problem?

Answer:

The most common cause of that code is a loose gas cap. Try tightening the gas cap and waiting a few days for it to clear. If you don’t want to wait for it to clear you can disconnect the batteries negative battery cable for a few minutes then reconnect it and it will reset it. Make sure though that you have the radio’s security code before you disconnect the battery cable if the radio is original or the radio won’t work again.
 

Question:

I have a 1990 f-150 with a 5.0 eng.,,it will not start ,,would you please give me a list of where and how to check it out ?

Answer:

You need 4 things to make and engine run.

1) Spark

2) Fuel

3) Compression

4) Timing

More than likely you are missing Spark or Fuel as they are the most common.

First see if you are missing spark. Stick and old spark plug in one of the wire ends that you take off a spark plug, lay the plug so that it is touching the block and have someone try to start it as you watch for spark.(caution, it will shock you so do not touch while cranking over engine)

Your fuel pressure needs to be 30 psi at idle and 40 psi running. Looking at the picture below, you see a stub sticking up on the same side as the regulator. This is the fuel pressure test port. Take the cap off and connect fuel gauge here for testing.

Fig. 1: Fuel pressure regulator - 5.0L and 5.8L engines 

Reference link: No Start Diagnostics Chart 

Any automotive air conditioning system employs four basic parts-a mechanical compressor, driven by the vehicle’s engine; an expansion valve, which is a restriction the compressor pumps against; and two heat exchangers, the evaporator and the condenser. In addition, there is the refrigerant that flows through this system. If the system is low on the refrigerant ( R134a for automotive use) than the system will blow hot air. In most cases the vehicles system can be recharged. Check for leaks before recharging.