Things I used in this video: 1. Voltmeter: amzn.to/2BQ0K2W 2. Common Sense 3. Full HD Camera: amzn.to/2AvoEk7 4. My computer for editing / uploading: amzn.to/2i2sKYz 5. Video editing software: amzn.to/2jv5Fhf 6. Thumbnail software: amzn.to/2k7tz6C 🛠Check out my Garage to see what I use every day and highly recommend: www.amazon.com/shop/scottykilmer ❗️Check out the Scotty store: goo.gl/RwhRGU 👉Follow me on Instagram for the latest news, funnies, and exclusive info / pics: goo.gl/ohy2cA
Scotty Kilmer had a question so I have a Acura TSX 05 so a couple days ago my battery was dead so I thought I had a bad battery and alternator so I changed both but I went to advanced so they could check my battery and alternator it should that alternator wasn’t getting any voltage so I installed a new alternator and it still shows no voltage could you help me out?
Scotty Kilmer I have a 95 Nissan Pathfinder my negative terminal melted then I found bare wires underneath the car but they look like they're coming from the positive terminal they're burned out where would they go to put new battery in battery will not start car
Yes, it was great meeting you, if I get any VW questions, I'll be sure to tap your brain. Yesterday I went back to shell and filmed a couple vids on gas to oil conversion and The Woman Who Knows Engines. And I found out how you guys probably got a better price on the premium oil, they aren't making much profit on dealership and maufacturer sales, it's a PR move. Figuring if OEMs use it, the public will follow using that very same oil. It's all about what the public will buy, just like my vids being for the general public. It's a VAST audience.
Heck yea man! That is awesome you got to shoot that video you wanted. That gal I think her name was Shanna or something. She is freaking smart and knows her stuff. If I can ever help ya out with anything VW, let me know. I'd be happy to help out. Cheers Charles
Thank you so much Scotty. love your channel you've taught me so much and just when Im about ready to throw the white flag you save the day every time. I'm watching from Midland, TX. I drive a 2004 Chevy trailblazer 4×4 with 304,000 miles. It was a ex police vehicle so my radio wire harness was not wired the correct way. I had to rearrange all the pins back to their original places to get my radio to power on. Before I found out the wiring issue I had installed a new transmission by myself with no experience at all which didn't do me any good because I still had the same problems, just to find out it was bad wiring contact. Once I fixed the harness the truck ran with no issues.
Scotty, I must thank you for all the videos that you have religiously posted and taught me the basics of being a mechanically inclined. I would be nowhere with my project without these videos.
yes, check your anti theft system if it has one and it needs resetting. If not, check the battery terminals and wires to see if they are not getting power from being loose or cracked
Thank you so much for this. Seriously, both my father and my brother were/are master mechanics, and both have tried to explain things to me. Some things I understood but some I just couldn't grasp, because like many people they explained things as though they were talking to another mechanic. Your explanations are simple yet expansive, helpful without being condescending. Thank you again.
If you like my car help, be sure to watch my live car talk show every Saturday morning at 10 AM CST on UA-cam. I answer your car questions LIVE there. Just check it out at ua-cam.com/video/VognjkYaMjg/v-deo.html&feature=c4-overview . And remember, every TUESDAY I upload a new video on the scotty kilmer channel on UA-cam, ua-cam.com/users/scottykilmer , so don’t miss them.
I keep coming back to your videos, Scotty. Great info. I just diagnosed a bad ground wire on the left high beam of my 2000 Nissan Maxima. I fixed it by running a jumper wire from the other light. I could not find the broken ground, but the guy I bought the car off of could not find it either. Lots of light now.
I just went through a similar problem to the example shown here (parking lights come on when stepping on the brake). I followed the "start with the easy stuff" method, and was pleased to find out within minutes that the problem was an internal short IN THE BRAKE LIGHT BULB ITSELF. The brake filament had partially melted due to wear and tear and was touching the tail light filament, which every time I stepped on the brake would feed electricity through the tail light circuit (which illuminated parking lamps and dash/gauge lights, in addition to causing my aftermarket stereo to dim its display due to power on the illumination lead). This was definitely an odd electrical problem I have only seen once before, and I was glad to find it was not a problem with the wiring itself. Additionally, many Saab 900/9000s and Volvo 240/740s are known for tail lamp ground issues - putting on a turn signal would flash alternating between turn signal and backup lamp (one Saab I worked on, the turn signal would flash the brake and backup lamps when your foot was on the brake but act normally when not braking) or other weird reactions as the electrons flow through other circuits to find a better ground.
weak connections, try unplugging them all , cleaning them, and snapping them back together. Pray it's not a computer circuit problem, they need replacing.
I have a ls400 98 it died and i change the battery no start alsoi changed the alternator about 3 months ago and it cuts on when it jumps but no lights on inside the car but car running but wont move and also will shut off after a while if i hook up battery charger soon as i cut it off the volts immediately goes back to zero and wont start back up unless i jump it but it just wont move even the gas pedal wont engage
could be bad wiring, check around the alternator wires first. More often a bad alternator. O2 sensors can go bad many ways, so you normally trust the computer on board to diagnose that and flag a code when bad
check all the fuses in all the fuse boxes, pray you just blew one, you probably did. If not, start tracing the wiring from the dome back to everywhere to find shorts.
Wow, simple test. Alas, something the simple solution guy, who may be slightly leaning towards the Mr. Magoo direction doesn't know the two other steps you so graciously provided. Thanks again Scotty.
thanks a lot Scott you really know a lot about cars. I checked for corrosion in my cars computer and sure enough. corroded green tips. I cleaned it up and my 3 codes disappeared. thanks again you saved me in time of need.
could be a bad ground or wiring problem to the alternator. As that belt broke, MANY wires or sensors could have been damaged, check in that area first.
What if my car isn't running yet due to the ground issues? Technically it runs, but the starter won't stop cranking once started. And it labors cranking
Thanks for the information Scotty. I’m dealing with the dim lights on my 02 avalanche; I replaced dimmer switch and harness and they will work when they want to
If you like my car help, be sure to watch my live car talk show every Saturday morning at 10 AM CST on UA-cam. I answer your car questions LIVE there. Just check it out at How To Ask A Live Mechanic Car Questions Free On UA-cam . And remember, every TUESDAY I upload a new video, so don’t miss them.
Thanks Scotty!! You gave me my next task in troubleshooting my car - talk about weird? I was "just driving along" with headlights on, and suddenly the radio turned itself on! (started playing beautiful music) - - I already was aware of weird, fugitive electrical behaviors, so I tried turning the headlights off, and voila, radio went off. (but it did NOT go back on when i turned the lights back on) BTW I had already set its (the radio) fuse aside, so it shouldn't have been capable of turning on anyways - - also, the right parking lights (Mercedes) will NOT turn off when the car is off - - I appreciate your clue, to start checking for faulty grounding wires . . . . wish me luck . . . . now I am starting to see why this beautiful car was only $1000 Hahahahaha!!!
"You really don't care what its doing when it's sitting there resting" I heard: "You really don't care what it's doing when it's sitting there rusting"
I've got a tricky one for you mate. I just replaced the crank and cam angle sensors in my 6G74 3.5 Mitsubishi Pajero. It ran fine for a week. Now. When I replace the clutch in it earlier last year, my silly mate "who's meant to be a qualified diesel fitter", I'm an apprentice, was in rush and wanted his hoist back and forced the box to the engine and zipped it up with the rattle gun. Resulting in a pinched main engine ground harness that runs over the back of the engine. I tried the best I could to isolate the wires semi blind because of where it was. Fast forward to the current day after replacing the crank and cam angle sensors, and it ran fine for a week. I parked it up. It sat for a couple hours and then we went to go back out for my son, and it would start but not run/idle properly. Like it was hunting for the correct cylinder. I had my other mate bring his snap on scan tool. And the codes said crank and cam angle sensor again. Which isn't right. Would the ground do this?
Bc since ole mate pinched my ground harness. My gps battery blew up. My tacho doesn't work. And now a few other bits and pieces. The harness runs from the battery down to the left side of the engine. But there's other ground and maybe power wires in there too. I'm at me wits end with it. Bc I need a bloody car to get a bloody job and I ain't getting the help I need. So much for mates in the know haha. I told him hasn't anyone ever taught you as a fitter. If it doesn't go, don't bloody force it! The look he gave me was priceless. Mind you I've been working as a mechanic/fitter now for 10+ plus years. I just don't have that government piece of paper yet. Due to unforeseen circumstances.
hey scotty i have a integra and im having trouble my headlights wont turn on at all after a few wires touched each other and something went wronb i changed fuses but still wont work pls help thnk u
I try , but with 71 million viewers so far, it's getting a lot harder to do. And, If you like my car help, be sure to watch my live car talk show every Saturday morning at 10 AM CST on UA-cam. I answer your car questions LIVE there. Just check it out at ua-cam.com/video/VognjkYaMjg/v-deo.html&feature=c4-overview . And remember, every TUESDAY I upload a new video on the scotty kilmer channel on UA-cam, ua-cam.com/users/scottykilmer , so don’t miss them.
Is a multi-meter and a volt meter the same? I have a multi-meter. I'm having and intermittent battery drain issue. It was 3.50amps. I pulled the interior light fused and it dropped drastically to .50 amps. I pulled every fuse and I can't get that .50 amps down. So I'm guessing the draw might be in the wiring. Can I use my multi-meter to check volts on a wire. My meter does not have clamps it has pointy sticks only. Thanks.
it depends on who u talk to, I call it a DVOM (digital volt-ohm meter) or a fluke, which is the brand I use. if the car is off I'd say a half an amp .50 of draw is normal. when u pulled your done light fuse was it on? depending on the number and type of some lights 3 or so amps is normal for operation for a car that has multiple incandescent bulbs as some lights. I would suggest having your battery tested as a start as a weak battery loses charge quickly once the charging system stops charging the battery.
Thanks for writing back about my 1990 Chevy Lumina. I agree that the idle screw should not be adjusted. Recently though I got my car out of a mechanics shop and when I got the car back the idle was up so high that the transmission was slamming every time I would stick it into gear. The original problem was still not taken care of because the car kept dying at stop lights and signs and it was blowing smoke. I took it back to them and one of the mechanics comes out and adjusts the idle set screw. The car would not slam into gear but it did not solve the problem of dying. I had to smog the car. The smog specialist could not even get the car started without problems and the black smoke was belching. He opened the hood looked to the back of the engine and cut part of the rubber hose going into the MAP sensor and all of the sudden the car ran and passed smog. But when I got it out on the street it still wanted to die at stop lights and stop signs and I had to feather the gas. I finally had an idea. I bet the first mechanic had turned the idle screw to low. So I adjusted the screw just a little at a time and then the engine kept running smoothly at the stop lights and stop signs without dying. So far the car is running like it should for a car that has 350,000 miles running on Amsoil.
if the bulbs were working then why replace them? you need to see where they are getting the power TO work. Brake switch near the pedal may need to be replaced OR simply adjusted
my 1999 honda civic lights flickering when the engine is running also the engine stutters at a certain speed when im accerlerating, but as soon as the flickering stop the stuttering from the engine stop too, what could be causing that?
Scotty Kilmer Don't forget to tip the guys.. especially if they install a battery,headlamps,diagnostic etc... they are underpaid for what they do... The kid at sonic gets more for barely walking 2 feet to ur car...too many Mercedes D bags try and come take advantage of us to get free labor cause they really can't afford their car or service
My 97 civic dashboard instruments don't work. Went to the gas station to pump gas and when I tried to turn it back on it wouldn't. 10 minutes later I try again and it finally turns on. BUT, the rpm meter acts fishy and when I break (even if I slighty tap the break) the rpm goes all the way down to zero. Also, when I turn on a turn signal, the rpm goes up and down at the same time as the turn signal flickers. Lastly, if I turn on my stereo, it also brings rpm down to zero and my stereo also just turns off out of nowhere. Idk what's wrong..
I recently wrote that my 1990 Chevy Lumina was dying every time I got to a stop sign or light. I first noted that the vacuum lines going to one of the electrical components was worn out. I also turned the idle set screw to increase the rpm and so far the car has not died like it was before.
that is not an idle screw you should mess with. the computer sets the idle, turning that screw also messes with tps output and other things and may cause problems in the long run. But, THAT old, if it runs good enough, live with it
I want to say thank you. For this video. And all others. You had been a great help the Las few years throughout my life as a home mechanic. God Bless You and Your Great Family
I didn't think I was going to like your videos, no lie haha. But I've been having problems with my car and I just go to your UA-cam channel and see if there's anything here to help me out. And there is so I appreciate you making these videos. These are very helpful
Massive help, especially opened my eyes to the fact cars have grounding connections in the trunk! Any others I should know about? Water got in my car after a hard rain, basically a puddle in the passenger side of the car, now the seat belt fault light keeps flashing and beeping, even if no one is sitting in the seat, also turning on the headlights causes the beeping to stop or act up intermitently, any ideas? I did clean and use dilectric grease on the connector under the seat with no fix
This really helped me out. Ive been wrestling my rig for weeks. I hit the brakes and the rear wipers come on. I really thought my truck was possesed or something.
You are an incredible smart intelligent man and watching you for years yeah definitely developed my mental faculty in Automotive .Are sharp hip and straight to the point
Hi Scotty, I dont give advice anymore I just search for one of your videos and post that---like weird light problems caused by grounds :) Keep up the good work you are helping a lot of folks out
Hie Scott , thank you so much for all your videos your are the best . I own a fiat palio 2003 , 8 valve . The problem im experiencing is , my fan for the radiator was not working then we tried connecting the fan to the ignition line then failed to complete the task , the very same day we did this we later had problems in starting the car . The mechanic advice me to get an auto because he said the car has now developed an electrical problem . The auto came he changed some spark plugs then the car start and he then connected the fan on the ignition line .i only drove it for a day . The following morning the car didnt want to start again and i foned him . He asked me to check if the fuel was coming to the engine proper and he told me to first listen to the pump , if it runs the the car start which i did and the car drove and at time i should aso unplug the cold start switch . The car at times would not start then start after a long crank , then the auto said we have to change the petrol pump because it is packing up . We changed it and installed an universal one . The pump sometimes works and at times does not work . After i watched a certain video of why a car cranks long before it start i found that i had to change the petrol filter which i did . Then the car start as i was driving it i noticed that the car is now straggling going uphill then i had to ingage to lower gears to complete the uphill , drove it only once . Now the car doesn't want to start . Pliz help
Hi Scotty, I have a 1994 Nissan Sentra. The tail lights do not work ( I've already changed the fuse) but the brake lights and blinkers work fine. Where do I begin to solve this problem? Thank you for your time, you are truly the BEST.
also had battery checked again and is fine and the battery terminals are and always have been completely clean. I have also checked out many grounds and everything seems to be in quite good condition besides everything else I told you. alright thanks.
Hey Scotty thanks for the video! I am having a problem with my wife's 05 kia spectra bottom 2 brake lights not working. The brakes use the same bulb as the tail lights but the filament for the brakes does not light up when you press the pedal. However the third brake light lights up. I tested all of the fuses and replaced some blown bulbs in the rear that I found. The turn signals and hazards are on a separate bulb. Less than a week ago someone rear ended her. Not much damaged was caused except for scraping up the rear bumper and a dent.
check for bent ground wiring connections or connectors by the ligjts where they plug to the bullbs. sometimes a small accident can cause a ground cable to move around and either touch another ground cable or part of the cars frame and cause it a bigger problem, or so
Trial & error determined Exposed wiring front park light inside headlights assembly 2008 Lincoln Mark LT after a fender bender riped my headlight off kept blowing fuses all wattages for taillights aka park lights & license plate lamp . Saved myself some bucks
Hi Scotty. I have been watching your videos for years. I have a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee that has a minor electrical problem. When a certain fuse blows, it causes the check engine light to display 4 codes. Once I replace the fuse, the codes reset. The good news is that the cigarette lighter is on that fuse. I have a USB charger plugged into it. So when the light is out I know the fuse has blown again. I am going to try to disconnect the cigarette lighter to see if that is the issue. The power outlet on the opposite side also does not work. According to the manual, it gets power directly from the battery. I tested all those fuses in the front battery area and they seem ok. Going to try removing that and see if power is getting to the cigarette light. It might be just time to change the outlets.
Great video. A concern coming to my mind is you taking off the negative cable while it's running. Fluctuation may cause damage to sensors or a module on a modern car.
But when you remove the negative cable of the voltmeter everything is still grounded through the battery ground which is still connected to the negative terminal of the battery. Please feel free to correct me if I am mistaken. Thank you.
Thanks for your channel. I now know what my problem is. It is a loose wire in the grounding system. They tried to tell me the car needed a new alternator. BAH
Awesome. I got a 2000 Toyota Avalon that's infamous for electrical problems. The instrument panel and interior lights flicker when the car is running. Hopefully I can figure out what's going on with this
Scotty. I have viewed and executed your 2 videos on using a volt meter and a test light to check for a grounding issue. The test light was on the whole time I was pulling fuses with no turn off. I have checked 4 main areas for ground to frame issues. I pulled the cluster out and looked for anything wacky there, seemed intact. Where else can I look or test? Essentially my cluster is going bonkers on all the gauges. Vehicle runs fine, its a 2000 Chevy Silverado. I appreciate your videos. very stumped.
Great video. Thanks for making it. My Dodge Neon has a problem. I turn the headlights on and the windshield wipers come on. Plus only the high beams work. Plus, when the headlights are on, the right front turn signal doesn't work. The fog lights sometimes work, sometimes don't. Today, the fog lights flashed like a turn signal when I had the right turn signal on along with the headlights. I think I have a ground problem and have to track it down.
Hey Scotty, I have this occasional problem where my AC and lights won't work when the car is on but after driving it a bit it will work. Also a few days ago my brake light were on constantly while driving even after I released the e brake!
Scotty I'm a big fan and have seen a hours upon hours of your videos. Thank you to start off! I'm a handy guy do it yourself I stomped I have a 2004 dodge Durango 4.6l the no tow hitch but the 3rd (Middle) tail light on lift get went out. Crazy part I smacked it and it came back on! Few hours later went back out.. I have replaced the bulb tested connectors to wires from bulb and all work. Figured must be fuse. Inspected every fuse 25 amp (small fuses) in all 3 fuse box's 2 under hood 1 located at driver feet no fuses blown. Your expertise is astonishing. What would be your ideas on this head ache of mine sir?
what if your car wont start? im having one heck of conundrum with my ford focus. The fan wouldnt start so someone suggested i put a toggle switch on the ground pin in the relay, well i had no knowledge of electricity before this, but i ended up plugging the switch into a few different pins, big big mistake. now the car wont start. cranks but no start. after that i made another huge mistake which was jumping the fuel pump relay. this got the car to start, but after i switched everything back it wouldnt start again, even after jumping the relay again. now ive learned a bit about using a multimeter and electricity in general. i have no power in several fuses and 2 relays. how do i find where that problem is when the car wont even crank anymore? thank you for your videos by the way, they have helped me alot
Things I used in this video:
1. Voltmeter: amzn.to/2BQ0K2W
2. Common Sense
3. Full HD Camera: amzn.to/2AvoEk7
4. My computer for editing / uploading: amzn.to/2i2sKYz
5. Video editing software: amzn.to/2jv5Fhf
6. Thumbnail software: amzn.to/2k7tz6C
🛠Check out my Garage to see what I use every day and highly recommend:
www.amazon.com/shop/scottykilmer
❗️Check out the Scotty store:
goo.gl/RwhRGU
👉Follow me on Instagram for the latest news, funnies, and exclusive info / pics:
goo.gl/ohy2cA
Scotty Kilmer hello Scott I want to ask you a question what makes a 97 Dodge Caravan shut off when you put it in Drive
Scotty Kilmer I put a new fuel pump on my 98 Ford WinstAR now it would not start it's not getting fire
Scotty Kilmer I have a 99 Lincoln Town Car my interior lights won't go off
Scotty Kilmer had a question so I have a Acura TSX 05 so a couple days ago my battery was dead so I thought I had a bad battery and alternator so I changed both but I went to advanced so they could check my battery and alternator it should that alternator wasn’t getting any voltage so I installed a new alternator and it still shows no voltage could you help me out?
Scotty Kilmer I have a 95 Nissan Pathfinder my negative terminal melted then I found bare wires underneath the car but they look like they're coming from the positive terminal they're burned out where would they go to put new battery in battery will not start car
Who’s here in 2024?
Yeah, man. Good video. Great for basic fundamentals. Had to dock points for that low quality moonshine, however.
Me
Me too.
2025 the future also fw scotty
Me. My wipers go on when i turn the lights on😂
Nice vid man. It was great meeting you at the Shell deal last week. Your videos are 100% you, and I dig that!
Yes, it was great meeting you, if I get any VW questions, I'll be sure to tap your brain. Yesterday I went back to shell and filmed a couple vids on gas to oil conversion and The Woman Who Knows Engines. And I found out how you guys probably got a better price on the premium oil, they aren't making much profit on dealership and maufacturer sales, it's a PR move. Figuring if OEMs use it, the public will follow using that very same oil. It's all about what the public will buy, just like my vids being for the general public. It's a VAST audience.
Heck yea man! That is awesome you got to shoot that video you wanted. That gal I think her name was Shanna or something. She is freaking smart and knows her stuff.
If I can ever help ya out with anything VW, let me know. I'd be happy to help out.
Cheers
Charles
Thank you so much Scotty. love your channel you've taught me so much and just when Im about ready to throw the white flag you save the day every time. I'm watching from Midland, TX.
I drive a 2004 Chevy trailblazer 4×4 with 304,000 miles. It was a ex police vehicle so my radio wire harness was not wired the correct way. I had to rearrange all the pins back to their original places to get my radio to power on. Before I found out the wiring issue I had installed a new transmission by myself with no experience at all which didn't do me any good because I still had the same problems, just to find out it was bad wiring contact. Once I fixed the harness the truck ran with no issues.
I hope to meet Scotty one day. He has taught me so much over these years.
Ur famous now 🤪
Scotty, I must thank you for all the videos that you have religiously posted and taught me the basics of being a mechanically inclined. I would be nowhere with my project without these videos.
Keep this man safe at all costs
yes, check your anti theft system if it has one and it needs resetting. If not, check the battery terminals and wires to see if they are not getting power from being loose or cracked
Thank you so much for this. Seriously, both my father and my brother were/are master mechanics, and both have tried to explain things to me. Some things I understood but some I just couldn't grasp, because like many people they explained things as though they were talking to another mechanic. Your explanations are simple yet expansive, helpful without being condescending. Thank you again.
If you like my car help, be sure to watch my live car talk show every Saturday morning at 10 AM CST on UA-cam. I answer your car questions LIVE there. Just check it out at ua-cam.com/video/VognjkYaMjg/v-deo.html&feature=c4-overview . And remember, every TUESDAY I upload a new video on the scotty kilmer channel on UA-cam, ua-cam.com/users/scottykilmer , so don’t miss them.
I keep coming back to your videos, Scotty. Great info. I just diagnosed a bad ground wire on the left high beam of my 2000 Nissan Maxima. I fixed it by running a jumper wire from the other light. I could not find the broken ground, but the guy I bought the car off of could not find it either. Lots of light now.
I just went through a similar problem to the example shown here (parking lights come on when stepping on the brake). I followed the "start with the easy stuff" method, and was pleased to find out within minutes that the problem was an internal short IN THE BRAKE LIGHT BULB ITSELF. The brake filament had partially melted due to wear and tear and was touching the tail light filament, which every time I stepped on the brake would feed electricity through the tail light circuit (which illuminated parking lamps and dash/gauge lights, in addition to causing my aftermarket stereo to dim its display due to power on the illumination lead).
This was definitely an odd electrical problem I have only seen once before, and I was glad to find it was not a problem with the wiring itself.
Additionally, many Saab 900/9000s and Volvo 240/740s are known for tail lamp ground issues - putting on a turn signal would flash alternating between turn signal and backup lamp (one Saab I worked on, the turn signal would flash the brake and backup lamps when your foot was on the brake but act normally when not braking) or other weird reactions as the electrons flow through other circuits to find a better ground.
Still being used 10 years later
11 years 🫡
11 for me 🤣
I’m from 2075 and still watching
Thanks Scotty from 10 Years ago, still Helping me in 2023! God Bless you!
weak connections, try unplugging them all , cleaning them, and snapping them back together. Pray it's not a computer circuit problem, they need replacing.
I have a ls400 98 it died and i change the battery no start alsoi changed the alternator about 3 months ago and it cuts on when it jumps but no lights on inside the car but car running but wont move and also will shut off after a while if i hook up battery charger soon as i cut it off the volts immediately goes back to zero and wont start back up unless i jump it but it just wont move even the gas pedal wont engage
Scotty, This video was about staying grounded, no getting lit up... Awesome video, You deserve a couple good swigs...
What if the car doesn’t start at all???
😂
Wonderful. One of the best instructional videos on vehicle earth fault-finding. Well done.
you can try the crank sensor, but if you've lost both spark and injector pulse, that's always a bad main computer on that model
check the grounds and the switch itself. If all running lights don't work, normally the fuse or switch
could be bad wiring, check around the alternator wires first. More often a bad alternator. O2 sensors can go bad many ways, so you normally trust the computer on board to diagnose that and flag a code when bad
6 years later and this video is still helpful. Thanks Scotty!
Second that
I freaking LOVE your videos. So helpful and so direct and quick to the point. Thanks for all the info.
I would start by checking the ground wires and the circuit boards back there, on MERCs the boards often warp with age and need replacing
check all the fuses in all the fuse boxes, pray you just blew one, you probably did. If not, start tracing the wiring from the dome back to everywhere to find shorts.
Ironically 95 percent of viewers are definitely not revving up our engines lol
Wow, simple test. Alas, something the simple solution guy, who may be slightly leaning towards the Mr. Magoo direction doesn't know the two other steps you so graciously provided. Thanks again Scotty.
thanks a lot Scott you really know a lot about cars. I checked for corrosion in my cars computer and sure enough. corroded green tips. I cleaned it up and my 3 codes disappeared. thanks again you saved me in time of need.
could be a bad ground or wiring problem to the alternator. As that belt broke, MANY wires or sensors could have been damaged, check in that area first.
Well now we know why Scotty always seems to be so happy :-) Another good video, thank you.
Thanks Scotty; as always good tips, simplified and well edited. You are the man when it comes to make it simple to us, keep up the good work!
What if my car isn't running yet due to the ground issues? Technically it runs, but the starter won't stop cranking once started. And it labors cranking
Thanks for the information Scotty. I’m dealing with the dim lights on my 02 avalanche; I replaced dimmer switch and harness and they will work when they want to
Your awesome, thanks for giving up your time to help us, much appreciated,
you have a dead short. Do my video "fixing battery drain on your car"
Scott thank you for answering my question you are truly one of the good guys much appreciated
If you like my car help, be sure to watch my live car talk show every Saturday morning at 10 AM CST on UA-cam. I answer your car questions LIVE there. Just check it out at How To Ask A Live Mechanic Car Questions Free On UA-cam . And remember, every TUESDAY I upload a new video, so don’t miss them.
Thanks Scotty!! You gave me my next task in troubleshooting my car - talk about weird? I was "just driving along" with headlights on, and suddenly the radio turned itself on! (started playing beautiful music) - - I already was aware of weird, fugitive electrical behaviors, so I tried turning the headlights off, and voila, radio went off. (but it did NOT go back on when i turned the lights back on) BTW I had already set its (the radio) fuse aside, so it shouldn't have been capable of turning on anyways - - also, the right parking lights (Mercedes) will NOT turn off when the car is off - - I appreciate your clue, to start checking for faulty grounding wires . . . . wish me luck . . . . now I am starting to see why this beautiful car was only $1000 Hahahahaha!!!
Probably the most energetic and positive mechanic I’ve seen
"You really don't care what its doing when it's sitting there resting"
I heard: "You really don't care what it's doing when it's sitting there rusting"
Can a bad ground cause an engine to run lumpy and rough? and even stall out when it's revved
Thats what im trying to figure out in my Nissan Hardbody D21 Motor😫
best explanation ever .. keep on bro
I won’t watch anybody else never again… I wish I had more time with Scott and his videos on things to learn all that I can
I've got a tricky one for you mate. I just replaced the crank and cam angle sensors in my 6G74 3.5 Mitsubishi Pajero. It ran fine for a week. Now. When I replace the clutch in it earlier last year, my silly mate "who's meant to be a qualified diesel fitter", I'm an apprentice, was in rush and wanted his hoist back and forced the box to the engine and zipped it up with the rattle gun. Resulting in a pinched main engine ground harness that runs over the back of the engine. I tried the best I could to isolate the wires semi blind because of where it was. Fast forward to the current day after replacing the crank and cam angle sensors, and it ran fine for a week. I parked it up. It sat for a couple hours and then we went to go back out for my son, and it would start but not run/idle properly. Like it was hunting for the correct cylinder. I had my other mate bring his snap on scan tool. And the codes said crank and cam angle sensor again. Which isn't right. Would the ground do this?
Bc since ole mate pinched my ground harness. My gps battery blew up. My tacho doesn't work. And now a few other bits and pieces. The harness runs from the battery down to the left side of the engine. But there's other ground and maybe power wires in there too. I'm at me wits end with it. Bc I need a bloody car to get a bloody job and I ain't getting the help I need. So much for mates in the know haha. I told him hasn't anyone ever taught you as a fitter. If it doesn't go, don't bloody force it! The look he gave me was priceless. Mind you I've been working as a mechanic/fitter now for 10+ plus years. I just don't have that government piece of paper yet. Due to unforeseen circumstances.
nice moonshine
Man your way to hype I love it 😂
hey scotty i have a integra and im having trouble my headlights wont turn on at all after a few wires touched each other and something went wronb i changed fuses but still wont work pls help thnk u
I have to give props to you Scotty! I find it impressive that you're so responsive to your viewers.
I try , but with 71 million viewers so far, it's getting a lot harder to do. And, If you like my car help, be sure to watch my live car talk show every Saturday morning at 10 AM CST on UA-cam. I answer your car questions LIVE there. Just check it out at ua-cam.com/video/VognjkYaMjg/v-deo.html&feature=c4-overview . And remember, every TUESDAY I upload a new video on the scotty kilmer channel on UA-cam, ua-cam.com/users/scottykilmer , so don’t miss them.
Look at Scotty from the past our little tadpole has grown up
love your shows :D think you are super cool :D
thank you
Is a multi-meter and a volt meter the same? I have a multi-meter. I'm having and intermittent battery drain issue. It was 3.50amps. I pulled the interior light fused and it dropped drastically to .50 amps. I pulled every fuse and I can't get that .50 amps down. So I'm guessing the draw might be in the wiring. Can I use my multi-meter to check volts on a wire. My meter does not have clamps it has pointy sticks only. Thanks.
it depends on who u talk to, I call it a DVOM (digital volt-ohm meter) or a fluke, which is the brand I use. if the car is off I'd say a half an amp .50 of draw is normal. when u pulled your done light fuse was it on? depending on the number and type of some lights 3 or so amps is normal for operation for a car that has multiple incandescent bulbs as some lights. I would suggest having your battery tested as a start as a weak battery loses charge quickly once the charging system stops charging the battery.
Why is this guy so easy to listen to? I love his videos!
Thanks for writing back about my 1990 Chevy Lumina. I agree that the idle screw should not be adjusted. Recently though I got my car out of a mechanics shop and when I got the car back the idle was up so high that the transmission was slamming every time I would stick it into gear. The original problem was still not taken care of because the car kept dying at stop lights and signs and it was blowing smoke. I took it back to them and one of the mechanics comes out and adjusts the idle set screw. The car would not slam into gear but it did not solve the problem of dying. I had to smog the car. The smog specialist could not even get the car started without problems and the black smoke was belching. He opened the hood looked to the back of the engine and cut part of the rubber hose going into the MAP sensor and all of the sudden the car ran and passed smog. But when I got it out on the street it still wanted to die at stop lights and stop signs and I had to feather the gas. I finally had an idea. I bet the first mechanic had turned the idle screw to low. So I adjusted the screw just a little at a time and then the engine kept running smoothly at the stop lights and stop signs without dying. So far the car is running like it should for a car that has 350,000 miles running on Amsoil.
Hi scotty im having a bad connection on my break lights we did put new bulbs but the thing is they're always on even im not stepping into the breaks
if the bulbs were working then why replace them? you need to see where they are getting the power TO work. Brake switch near the pedal may need to be replaced OR simply adjusted
Not Always the case , it could easily be the bcm.
mark oliver ancheta brake light switch
Sometimes the bump stop will dry rot and fall out allowing the brake switch to stay extended. I see that on Kia's and Hyundais a lot.
ra777 What does bcm stand for?
my 1999 honda civic lights flickering when the engine is running also the engine stutters at a certain speed when im accerlerating, but as soon as the flickering stop the stuttering from the engine stop too, what could be causing that?
all the lights on the car flicker
often weak alternator, auto zones load test them and batteries free
Scotty Kilmer Don't forget to tip the guys.. especially if they install a battery,headlamps,diagnostic etc... they are underpaid for what they do... The kid at sonic gets more for barely walking 2 feet to ur car...too many Mercedes D bags try and come take advantage of us to get free labor cause they really can't afford their car or service
Leon Springs Boys TV lol why u say that ?😭😭💢👏👏
My 97 civic dashboard instruments don't work. Went to the gas station to pump gas and when I tried to turn it back on it wouldn't. 10 minutes later I try again and it finally turns on. BUT, the rpm meter acts fishy and when I break (even if I slighty tap the break) the rpm goes all the way down to zero. Also, when I turn on a turn signal, the rpm goes up and down at the same time as the turn signal flickers. Lastly, if I turn on my stereo, it also brings rpm down to zero and my stereo also just turns off out of nowhere. Idk what's wrong..
What's about tail lights
The last 10 seconds of this video helped me lots...
To understand why Scotty moved to Tennessee.
I recently wrote that my 1990 Chevy Lumina was dying every time I got to a stop sign or light. I first noted that the vacuum lines going to one of the electrical components was worn out. I also turned the idle set screw to increase the rpm and so far the car has not died like it was before.
that is not an idle screw you should mess with. the computer sets the idle, turning that screw also messes with tps output and other things and may cause problems in the long run. But, THAT old, if it runs good enough, live with it
Change the title from''How to Fix Electrical Problems in Your Car (Ground Fault)'' to'' How to check if your car has a ground fault''.
I want to say thank you. For this video. And all others. You had been a great help the Las few years throughout my life as a home mechanic. God Bless You and Your Great Family
I didn't think I was going to like your videos, no lie haha. But I've been having problems with my car and I just go to your UA-cam channel and see if there's anything here to help me out. And there is so I appreciate you making these videos. These are very helpful
Scott is the best.. I like his enthusiasm and quite exciting way of demonstration not like other few quite boring.. Keep it up Scotty
Massive help, especially opened my eyes to the fact cars have grounding connections in the trunk! Any others I should know about? Water got in my car after a hard rain, basically a puddle in the passenger side of the car, now the seat belt fault light keeps flashing and beeping, even if no one is sitting in the seat, also turning on the headlights causes the beeping to stop or act up intermitently, any ideas? I did clean and use dilectric grease on the connector under the seat with no fix
Mr Scotty please keep this📈
Once again thank you mr Kilmer. I get so sick of people not cutting the fat.
Thank you Scotty, I would have a lot of problems with my -91 Ford Sierra, if there was no Scotty.
This really helped me out. Ive been wrestling my rig for weeks. I hit the brakes and the rear wipers come on. I really thought my truck was possesed or something.
You are an incredible smart intelligent man and watching you for years yeah definitely developed my mental faculty in Automotive .Are sharp hip and straight to the point
Hi Scotty, I dont give advice anymore I just search for one of your videos and post that---like weird light problems caused by grounds :) Keep up the good work you are helping a lot of folks out
This guy is amazing. Extra delivery.
Hie Scott , thank you so much for all your videos your are the best . I own a fiat palio 2003 , 8 valve . The problem im experiencing is , my fan for the radiator was not working then we tried connecting the fan to the ignition line then failed to complete the task , the very same day we did this we later had problems in starting the car . The mechanic advice me to get an auto because he said the car has now developed an electrical problem . The auto came he changed some spark plugs then the car start and he then connected the fan on the ignition line .i only drove it for a day . The following morning the car didnt want to start again and i foned him . He asked me to check if the fuel was coming to the engine proper and he told me to first listen to the pump , if it runs the the car start which i did and the car drove and at time i should aso unplug the cold start switch . The car at times would not start then start after a long crank , then the auto said we have to change the petrol pump because it is packing up . We changed it and installed an universal one . The pump sometimes works and at times does not work . After i watched a certain video of why a car cranks long before it start i found that i had to change the petrol filter which i did . Then the car start as i was driving it i noticed that the car is now straggling going uphill then i had to ingage to lower gears to complete the uphill , drove it only once . Now the car doesn't want to start . Pliz help
Ah-ha, MOONSHINE!! Scotty, we all now know why you're always so joyfully peppy in your videos! lol I love your personality--keep doin you bud!
dude you are like the super nerd of cars, I always learn something
I just used the information from this video to fix my 2010 Dodge Journey. Thanks
It's the last weeks of 2020 and Scotty is now living in Tennessee and still sipping that moonshine! 🤣🤣🤣
Thanks for giving an example about the 4/10ths of a volt difference, I always have problem with those things. 😊
Hi Scotty, I have a 1994 Nissan Sentra. The tail lights do not work ( I've already changed the fuse) but the brake lights and blinkers work fine.
Where do I begin to solve this problem? Thank you for your time, you are truly the BEST.
Dawn Di Eigidio that old, check the circuit board on the lenses back there, they often corrode and short out, also check the sockets for corrosion
Scotty Kilmer
Thank you so much Scotty. My son said you are the best, and I totally agree with him.
also had battery checked again and is fine and the battery terminals are and always have been completely clean. I have also checked out many grounds and everything seems to be in quite good condition besides everything else I told you. alright thanks.
Really looking forward to you reply , im so convinced that you are the only one whos gonna get me out of the woods
Video is 9 years old and just now found this genius
Hey Scotty thanks for the video!
I am having a problem with my wife's 05 kia spectra bottom 2 brake lights not working. The brakes use the same bulb as the tail lights but the filament for the brakes does not light up when you press the pedal. However the third brake light lights up. I tested all of the fuses and replaced some blown bulbs in the rear that I found. The turn signals and hazards are on a separate bulb. Less than a week ago someone rear ended her. Not much damaged was caused except for scraping up the rear bumper and a dent.
check for bent ground wiring connections or connectors by the ligjts where they plug to the bullbs. sometimes a small accident can cause a ground cable to move around and either touch another ground cable or part of the cars frame and cause it a bigger problem, or so
Trial & error determined Exposed wiring front park light inside headlights assembly 2008 Lincoln Mark LT after a fender bender riped my headlight off kept blowing fuses all wattages for taillights aka park lights & license plate lamp . Saved myself some bucks
Hi Scotty. I have been watching your videos for years. I have a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee that has a minor electrical problem. When a certain fuse blows, it causes the check engine light to display 4 codes. Once I replace the fuse, the codes reset. The good news is that the cigarette lighter is on that fuse. I have a USB charger plugged into it. So when the light is out I know the fuse has blown again. I am going to try to disconnect the cigarette lighter to see if that is the issue. The power outlet on the opposite side also does not work. According to the manual, it gets power directly from the battery. I tested all those fuses in the front battery area and they seem ok. Going to try removing that and see if power is getting to the cigarette light. It might be just time to change the outlets.
Great video. A concern coming to my mind is you taking off the negative cable while it's running. Fluctuation may cause damage to sensors or a module on a modern car.
But when you remove the negative cable of the voltmeter everything is still grounded through the battery ground which is still connected to the negative terminal of the battery. Please feel free to correct me if I am mistaken. Thank you.
I love learner about mechanical and electrical things and you are fun to watch and informative. Keep making videos. Thanks
Thanks for your channel. I now know what my problem is. It is a loose wire in the grounding system. They tried to tell me the car needed a new alternator. BAH
Awesome. I got a 2000 Toyota Avalon that's infamous for electrical problems. The instrument panel and interior lights flicker when the car is running. Hopefully I can figure out what's going on with this
finally I get some use out of Scotty Kilmer
Every time i need to figure out something, you end up showing me the tools i need to figure it out myself
Scotty. I have viewed and executed your 2 videos on using a volt meter and a test light to check for a grounding issue. The test light was on the whole time I was pulling fuses with no turn off. I have checked 4 main areas for ground to frame issues. I pulled the cluster out and looked for anything wacky there, seemed intact. Where else can I look or test? Essentially my cluster is going bonkers on all the gauges. Vehicle runs fine, its a 2000 Chevy Silverado. I appreciate your videos. very stumped.
Great information Mr Scotty. You made this in its utmost simplicity
Such a great video. You made it sound easy. You are a good teacher. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Great video. Thanks for making it. My Dodge Neon has a problem. I turn the headlights on and the windshield wipers come on. Plus only the high beams work. Plus, when the headlights are on, the right front turn signal doesn't work. The fog lights sometimes work, sometimes don't. Today, the fog lights flashed like a turn signal when I had the right turn signal on along with the headlights. I think I have a ground problem and have to track it down.
replace the whole switch assembly, they go bad and do that
Thank you
And
everybody else made it so difficult to learn how to test the vehicle grounds
Best explanation on how to test and find a short 👌
Greetings from Algeria, my uncle you are wonderful and your videos
Thanks for posting this video it helped me out a lot. I'm working on a 1985 pontiac fiero that the head lights go when you press the breaks.
That old smokey is some real good stuff
My car won’t ignite and also the car was good too drive but then my signal lights were completely out.. any idea what’s the problem?
I love the way you do your vids. you and Eric the car guy are my favorites. oh, I was with screaming too ! keep it up scotty!
Hey Scotty, I have this occasional problem where my AC and lights won't work when the car is on but after driving it a bit it will work. Also a few days ago my brake light were on constantly while driving even after I released the e brake!
Scotty I'm a big fan and have seen a hours upon hours of your videos. Thank you to start off! I'm a handy guy do it yourself I stomped I have a 2004 dodge Durango 4.6l the no tow hitch but the 3rd (Middle) tail light on lift get went out. Crazy part I smacked it and it came back on! Few hours later went back out.. I have replaced the bulb tested connectors to wires from bulb and all work. Figured must be fuse. Inspected every fuse 25 amp (small fuses) in all 3 fuse box's 2 under hood 1 located at driver feet no fuses blown. Your expertise is astonishing. What would be your ideas on this head ache of mine sir?
what if your car wont start? im having one heck of conundrum with my ford focus. The fan wouldnt start so someone suggested i put a toggle switch on the ground pin in the relay, well i had no knowledge of electricity before this, but i ended up plugging the switch into a few different pins, big big mistake. now the car wont start. cranks but no start. after that i made another huge mistake which was jumping the fuel pump relay. this got the car to start, but after i switched everything back it wouldnt start again, even after jumping the relay again. now ive learned a bit about using a multimeter and electricity in general. i have no power in several fuses and 2 relays. how do i find where that problem is when the car wont even crank anymore? thank you for your videos by the way, they have helped me alot