I love how the stealership, the guy with all the fancy tools, all the fancy testers, and factory certified technicians, charging $200 an hour couldn't fix the problem while the small shop guy with all the brains nails it in no time.
I know! how do these crooks, (parts changers) get away with that? I dii the same thing as Eric for years. I'd go right to the problem and fix it after they threw 100'S $ of unnecessary parts and they still think they're getting cheated. BZ to Eric for doing what he does
Tools and a certified tech doesn't mean you can fix anything. When I went to BioMed School they drilled theory of operation in us everyday, the motto was if you don't know how it works how do you fix it? A lesson you never forget.
Not a stupid video at all. I am a systems engineer and electrician, I do all my own car and motorcycle repair if I can and just for fun. The thing that usually stops me is a lack of diagnostic equipment, technical info/drawings and experience. Your videos are full of info, and grab my undivided attention, it's like being an apprentice again but from my armchair 🔧👍
Check your local library's website to see if they have access to car repair service data. The local library near me has Mitchell and Chilton service data FOR FREE for library card holders.
@davidcoates4852 That's what John Deere is doing to American farmers. They don't give them access to software needed for repairs. They get the software from " napster" .I mean black market. There is a lawsuit against them now from a number of farmers.
@@wrnhokie My library used to have good stuff available. Both hard copy manuals and access to online tech info. Now the online tech info sucks and newer paper manuals are a hit and miss if they have them at all. Sad!
...you mean master-bators, not master techs. Those people with fancy tools and certificates of proficiency coming out the ying-yangs are as good as the tits on a bull.
I saw a fancy paper on the wall covered in dust. Turned out to be expired 7 years ago. I laughed so hard when I noticed it at one of my local stealerships. Another thing that happens at stealerships is only having one guy certified and employing six more who are not. That makes it hard to say if the person working on your car is certified. I think they are happy to find someone who has a drivers license and can pass a drug test.
Y’all have no idea how cool I thought it was two weeks ago when I stopped for the night at the truckstop just down the road from Wilburt’s and realized how close I was to SMA. I honestly considered doing a drive-by and tooting the airhorn the next day to see if I could be “that guy“ in one of the videos.
@@SouthMainAutohey brother. 40 year Master Tech here. I truly love your videos. Never can learn enough about repairing these engineered jigsaw puzzles. Your integrity and knowledge can be a rare find in our business. I'm a frequent visitor of Wilbert's in Williamson. Great facilities. Can you please share what model Autel scanner you use? Much appreciated and keep on wrenching!
@@SouthMainAuto Loves for a couple of their cheddar sausages, then Pilot for a nap and a… well, a bath. Thanks for asking, and for keeping us all entertained! I know I appreciate it.
Better on the wheel well than where Ford had them in the 1980s. My 1984 Ford Escort had its module slapped against the engine. Problem was, instead of the module dissipating heat it got super hot from the engine and burned up. I went through half a dozen modules before I realized why the modules kept falling. The dealer could not help. They only replaced them. I ended up re-locating the module off the engine and never had another module fail again. I wrote Ford telling them of their mistake and they never responded. That was the last Ford I ever owned.
And I hope that lady NEVER goes back to that dealer. I worked for Mopar dealers in Minnesota for a long time and NONE of them would have allowed a tech to get away with that kind of crap. Must be a New York thing!
You'd think that. I'm booked too far out to take on new customers. They typically can't wait a few weeks. That is why these deals are usually a one and don't never see you again type of thing 🤷♂️
@@billwTCan I think the apprenticeship program would be best so he can hire the tech that will most likely have the willingness to learn. You can't teach people to have a good attitude.
Where I live, three Super Master Techs at three different dealerships could not do what you just did. They said the vehicle was beyond repair. Young man, the more I watch, the more I'm impressed with your abilities and integrity.
ECUs, PCMs, whatever alphabet soup the manufacturer spelled out of his cereal box that morning- rarely go bad these days. Most techs go for "" well, it fixed the last car" parts cannon and hope for the best. Because Eric actually understands the entire system, he nails root cause quickly. His talent is rare and appreciated by many. ROCK ON SMA!
Seriously... I'm not a car guy. Not even a little 😂. This is my job and I enjoy fixing them I just have little to no interest in them after work. I think cars are stupid and a waste of money but a necessary form of travel. That's why I say I'm not a car guy 🤷♂️
@@SouthMainAutosince you have zero emotion about cars and you can clearly learn to be a technician on any kind of vehicle, what are your thoughts on ev’s?
I just went through this exact situation on 08 Ram 1500. Bought off a dealer at a hefty discount, because they had no interest in figuring out the code issues. Truck is for son about to get his license and your channel has definitely given me confidence to really get after troubleshooting myself, which I enjoy. So guess what? Pulled codes fought with an O2 sensor heater fault and ended up blaming the ecu. Expensive part if I’m wrong… however opted for a used one from a vendor the forums had recommended and that was it! Bad ecu circuit to O2 heater… so great to see today’s video.
The ONLY question is " will it fix the car " ? Your honor , this is the factory . They have the complete engineering staff , factory trained technicians , factory tools , etc. They gave a written estimate . They are the experts on this vehicle . They charged me $$$$.$$ to NOT fix the car . Then they claimed it needed more parts OR " it couldn't be fixed " ! I demand ALL my money back . The car is exactly the same . But now I am out $$$$.$$ and have a car that is NOT fixed but does several new parts that were NEVER needed . " But we TRIED to fix it " ! But FAILED !!!!!!!!!! It will cost them hours in small claims court . I would not even pay a diagnostis fee because they failed . Go pay a taxi to drop you in the wrong town !😂😂😂 Great lesson and fix Eric ! Wilberts for the win !
I read all that and I have no idea what you said. are you saying you're not going to pay your bill at the dealership? if you don't, you just gave your car to them. they will apply for a lein, get a title in their name and sell it to auction to get their money. you have no say in this.
What I find most entertaining and fascinating is the pure joy that comes through as you work solving each puzzle. The editing and content are straightforward. There’s no useless “fluff.” The work you do is a blending of art and science and the result is pure poetry. Keep it up and thanks for spreading joy by following your passion.
Such great diagnostic skills. But more importantly integrity, test and verify. It’s such a shame that the dealers and other independent shops are so willing to throw parts at it when it does not need them. Thanks Al always for great video and commentary
How in the world can shops shake down these people for thousands of dollars, then give 'em an estimate for thousands more to actually fix the thing? (When the additional thousands wouldn't have fixed it either!) Unbelievable... People should be hauling these charlatans into small claims court to get some financial recovery! Outstanding job again Mr. O.. You probably have a new forever customer!
@@peterhodgkins6985 the problem is mechanics who don’t know how to troubleshoot, and don’t know anything about electronics. When you know how to properly troubleshoot it makes you look like a miracle worker, things that others struggle with for weeks you can fix in minutes. The fundamental algorithm of troubleshooting is this: divide a complex system into simpler subsystems, then test each of the subsystems. Additionally one needs to be incredibly careful about assumptions. It’s very easy to rule out the actual solution by assuming.
@@wackyvorlonNo. The problem is shops not standing behind their work. There's got to be some sort of liability to charging the customer for a service (fixing the problem) and not doing the job.
@@Wheelman81 My son was literally told this. He and I get along like oil and water and trying to tell him this would just cause an argument. So I sit back and let him do what he wants and just keep to the subjects that are safe to talk about.
Ambient noise is a constant at SMA; if it isn't The Big Dog, That Guy, or Lawn Mower Neighbor, it's a train. Only a matter of time until a marching band makes an appearance.
This is my 3rd career, but I was always very mechanically inclined due to my father’s influence of diesel and gasoline engine repairs. I helped manage a fellow veterans auto repair shop. I noticed that on occasion, some of the dealerships didn’t do the correct diagnosis. It turned out they didn’t devote sufficient time because they were in the clock to move cars out. Cars on lifts or stalls do not make money. Dealerships are no t in the business to loose money. That’s why I believe that many of these independent shops will and can at times, devote more time to analyze vehicle problems. Eric O just gained another faithful customer. It’s a win-win for everyone
@@xyzzy7145 There is noting to "suppose", because in 2022, there were 260 deaths, and 2,200 accidents from trains hitting cars, even with the "safety first" horn blasts. Federal Regulations, going back 150 years, _require_ a 96-110db horn (jet engine loud). At every street, the regs mandate two longs--a short-a long. SMA is 600 feet from the River St crossing, 400 feet from the S Main St crossing, 300 feet from the Grant St crossing, 500 feet from the Maple St crossing, and 1000 feet from the Carrington St crossing.
It's not just a few clicks of a button and a trip to the junk yard. It's the years of knowledge and experience that fixed it, along with proper testing. A+
@@Loulito they used to have multiple junk yards when i was younger and working in my dads garage but now they don’t like you walking around in the yard anymore around here. I used to put a lot of car parts on my dads account back then.
Eric, my friends and family get tired of me talking about your trouble shooting skills and how good you are and the issues you find when nobody else can. You should be teaching the techs at the dealerships your skills. I'm in Michigan and sure wish you were closer to work on my vehicles. Everybody assumes the dealers know everything on troubleshooting and car repair but time and time again you systematically find the problem. Awesome work. And when you say " If I can do you can do it". I don't think I could.
Info is out there for people to learn. I think sometimes people forget Eric basically grew up in a workshop and has many years of experience under his belt, the tools, and the reference material which is why he makes it look so easy.
Yet another quality video showing off your superior ability! The 3 shops and especially the dealership should be ashamed of charging for not fixing. Unfortunately you make it look so easy, but who is teaching all these other guys? Why don’t they care enough to learn the basics that you use? Or at least not try and just send them to you in the beginning? You are obviously one of a kind and we are all so lucky to be able to watch and learn from you!!!
I love your local Pick a Part Eric. So clean and tidy, and the wheels are still on. Ours is messy, the fuel tanks have been holed and drained, and people have wrecked good parts to get what they want. Like ripping door panels off to get to speakers or door mirrors. I love Pick a Part, costs us $2 to get in but a shame to see how people have trashed good vehicles whilst they owned them and then scrapped them. They must have lost $1000s when basic maintainance and care would have kept them going longer. I love your videos, explanations and your humour. Keep it up Eric, cheers...
Never saw a junkyard like this before!! Everything up on blocks and in order! Im use to the junkyards with cars piled all over the place and weeds growing around them and an old guy named "bob" sleeping in a little shack that owns the place!!
I used to run a bodyshop that had a you pull yard just down the street. After particularly stressful days i would go down and walk thr yard. I started remembering the vehicles in there and repaired many vehicles using parts from the yard. I wound up running the yard for 2 years after i left the bodyshop business. Still would walk the yard after hours, i found it therapeutic to look at all of the used and abused vehicles.
Anytime I repair a vehicle another shop or mechanic could not repair I seem to end up with a new customer for life. Another great job Eric! keep up the good work!
SMA to the rescue again! I’ve been in the industry for 18 years now and wish I could work with someone this good to learn off. Glad he has the channel! Eric O best technician I’ve never met!
The dealer standards are pitiful everywhere. And they wonder why folks hate stealerships. Great scientific analysis through observation, testing, verification through replication and correction. Very logical and scientific. Shane on all the other mechanics.
Nice to know you can put a used pcm in that vehicle. Sometimes swapping in a used module if it's available is faster then all the individual tests. Now if a previously enjoyed part is not available then that's a different story. Nice fix!
@@PhillipBailey I am proud of you you are a good mechanic I always watch your videos and I learn from you how to fix Cars and how to use scantool correctly I indebted to you and the owner this channel Soth America both of are genius,,,🌹🌹🌹
If you read the Honda service info that's how part of their diagnostic flow chart. If nothing else fixes it, "substitute a known good PCM." Because everyone has known good PCM's laying around.
You get a very satisfying feeling when you fix a problem that other people (some trained people) have tried and failed. I worked in maintenance for 35 years and learned that some peole are fixers and some are not.
Thanks for taking us all on another entertaining field trip to Wilbert’s. I think a few of your viewers may have missed the reference to “Gibb’s Rule Number 1” ..as in Leroy Jethro Gibbs of the NCIS tv show. Very Cool.
Work in a dealership for 3 months and you'll quickly realize that diagnostics don't get you paid, if you spent 2 hours trying to diagnose an electrical fault not only would you not get paid for it but you'll most likely be fired. They only care about volume and sales.
@@stevewhite3424 no it is whole system. we need a different system nowadays with complicated cars and expensive parts you can't just guess and try most obvious stuff like years ago.
I am with you on this one, I think the dealership should have Dr. Eric teach a class to their techs and pay him, then pay the techs to watch SMA videos. lol
I'll be 78 next month, and I remember when all you saw in a "junk yard" was OLD cars. Like 20 years old and older. Look at the cars in Wilbert's, most are only a year or a few years old. What does that tell you? WE ARE GOING BACKWARDS!!!!
You are so right, modern cars are junk. I am a similar age to you, I will be keeping my 8 year old diesel Ute, it will be my last car. I am not going to risk buying a pile of junk. Cheers from Australia.🇳🇿
Alternatively, upstate NY (where Eric's shop is) puts down so much "salt" during the winter that most cars have their frames rotted out by the time they are 15 years old.
Most techs maybe 90% don’t know how to diagnose modern vehicles and they are only getting more complicated. I was at the store yesterday and this brand new Kia something was beeping like a forklift as it was backing out the parking spot next to me . I keep waiting for a piece of heavy equipment to appear in my backup screen.
I needed the window and door lock switch for my truck and visited the junkyard. I walked around like Eric and said all the things. I even told the gal at the counter “here’s your problem lady”. It was great fun.
Love the computer fail videos and Wilbers! The customer will be thrilled...then she will be pissed at all the money she spent at the other shops!! Great job!!
I know it’s just another day at the office for you but repairing that van truly helped out the owner. Just imagine if she had to junk that thing and buy a new car would have cost her. We are all struggling to get by these days. Great job I’m sure she was delighted with you. The dealership should make their techs watch this video.
Many many years ago I was an ASE technician. I worked at a Chevy/Subaru dealership for a short time. It was awful working there. They wouldn't do the GM training, the back stabbing was unreal as well. I learned more working in private shops hands down. Never to the level Eric is, but I still do 99% of my own work. Great videos and like others I am amazed at your skills!
Dealerships. I’ve got two recalls on my new car and I don’t even want to get involved with their shenanigans. Besides, they’re so overwhelmed that when I try to set up an appointment they tell me we’re months out for what is essentially a visual check and a software update on a parking brake. I use a local shop with a great mechanic for my other vehicle and oil changes. Happy to help support a local business, not willing to subsidize a scam operator.
I got that beat I got a recall I called scheduled my appointment and took off work drove over to the dealer sat for 1 hour then they came and said they didn’t have the part to do the recall after calling me to come get it done and scheduled it
The dodge dealership I’m at will do software update recalls same day. There is a service backlog, because we are severely short handed. Seems like the younger generation doesn’t want to to the physical labor required in this profession. Im 45, got back into the field in 22, and have no problem working 10 hours a day in the heat. Beats being stuck behind a desk.
My VW has a recall for the ignition switch. Almost every one of them since a Mk2 has had this issue anyways. The one in the wife's car is definitely hinky, pull the key out and like 3-5 seconds later the interior light comes on (the colder it is the slower it reacts). Not really worried about it until it breaks , because try getting an appointment like you said.
it is nice to see you have a reputable auto wreck used part outlet . Wilberts has good service record to follow all stock. Great to see his stock helps you repair customers auto's!
A 1 auto is YOU THANKS Mr magoo here in Milo, Maine You Make good sience thanks for the indepth troubleshooting. You are a BLESSING to watch in action..... 101 points
A bad day at the boneyard BEATS a good day at work ANYDAY!!! I personally have a 1995 ford F250 4x4 351w and my late wife's 2012 Dodge grand caravan and when I'm done grabbing whatever I went to pick and pull for I enjoy just walking around the cars!!
I could maybe do it if I had all your years and years of experience, but I keep learning new things each time. Great job as always. Have a great weekend!
Eric I can't even begin to tell you how much respect I have for you as a shop owner for going to a you pull it to get your customers back on the road reasonably. It's so amazing!!
Been watching for a while now from down under in Napier, New Zealand. A retired engineer and very impressed by your work ethic Eric, your an inspiration to the trade. Well done Sir😉👍
I out-Ericed my local shop by doing some graphing on an o2 sensor with my basic Autel. They told me they would have just thrown an o2 sensor in there. Turned out to be a broken heater wire. You're teaching the masses, Eric 👍🏻
Most of the junkyards around me are very seedy, one of them it is a regular occurrence to hear gunfire from the neighborhood next to it. This one seems very refreshing and pleasant, beautiful trees all around.
Don't ever think a Stealership is the answer. Especially on an older vehicle. They'll shotgun parts on your dime everytime. We need real technicians like Mr O. 🤛
I swear, Eric, if it isn't the guy running his lawn mower then it is a freight train coming through town. It doesn't matter I will still watch. Wikipedia says that there was a railroad line that was severed through Avoca many years ago. They must have reconnected it. Great job on the Caravan. If you were that lady's last hope she was in good hands. GREAT VIDEO!
I love that junkyard. The ones around here are all growed up with weeds, snakes crawling around in the cars and the cars so close together you can hardly open a door.
I still don't comprehend how repair shops "diagnose" a vehicle, charge hundreds or thousands for parts and labor, and it doesn't fix the vehicle. How can they possibly charge the customer ?
You allow them to. When you approve the work. Some states they don't even have to fix it and you pay. So it's lame. Gotta know how a car works these days.
I know many have said that you treat “the people” as if we were right there beside you. I got so engrossed that I was shifting my iPad around trying to see past a reflection on the scanner. You can’t get much more into a video. BTW - Moving the iPad didn’t help. The dealer would have replaced it.
Or a least settle with her by charging her only for the new parts (she's keeping) and no labor (that didn't fix the problem). Dealer would never agree to put the old parts back and you probably don't want them near your car anymore anyway but they may compromise a bit. Labor was probably 70% of the cost.
Really enjoy how you take us along your journey to find out what the failures are with each repair. It’s very informative for me and sure it is for most watchers. There are few auto mechanics like you out there To many young mechanics only go by what the computer tells them no common sense anymore. Great work😊😊😊
In all the years I've been watching you Eric, I legit think this is the first time we've seen you wearing shorts at work. Your boss finally institute casual Friday dress attire?
Every time you film this salvage yard I'm impressed with how well maintained it is.
Vegas ones are mint
@@claudiosantana3320 UK ones are usualy an oily mess.
For sure, the ones around here are just piled on top of each other. Did get a whole front end of a mini plus valve body so I won’t complain.
The ones in my area aren't bad but I can buy new parts for less. They have gotten outrageous on pricing.
And no wrecks. All rusted out?
I love how the stealership, the guy with all the fancy tools, all the fancy testers, and factory certified technicians, charging $200 an hour couldn't fix the problem while the small shop guy with all the brains nails it in no time.
I know! how do these crooks, (parts changers) get away with that? I dii the same thing as Eric for years. I'd go right to the problem and fix it after they threw 100'S $ of unnecessary parts and they still think they're getting cheated. BZ to Eric for doing what he does
Sadly that is becoming the norm more and more now.
Tools and a certified tech doesn't mean you can fix anything. When I went to BioMed School they drilled theory of operation in us everyday, the motto was if you don't know how it works how do you fix it? A lesson you never forget.
I think they planned it that way---crooks
not all dealers are like this.
Wilberts' is the unsung hero of South Main Auto lore.
There's gotta be a T at the end with how he says it right?
I missed if he showed the sign
No fun in the boneyard after a recent rain storm!
@@Onewheelordeal Yup, the full name is "Wilbert's U-Pull It of Bath"
@@abw121 the sign did say "No swimming" on the rock 😅
Wilbers is a nicely kept yard
We love taking field trips to Wilberts with you, Eric! Pocket full of sockets lol.
If there is such a thing as a classy junkyard, Wilbert’s is it.
Not a stupid video at all. I am a systems engineer and electrician, I do all my own car and motorcycle repair if I can and just for fun. The thing that usually stops me is a lack of diagnostic equipment, technical info/drawings and experience. Your videos are full of info, and grab my undivided attention, it's like being an apprentice again but from my armchair 🔧👍
Check your local library's website to see if they have access to car repair service data. The local library near me has Mitchell and Chilton service data FOR FREE for library card holders.
@@wrnhokie thanks for the tip, unfortunately I don't live in the US, we don't have the right to repair here in the UK. 🔧👍
@@davidcoates4852😊😊
@davidcoates4852
That's what John Deere is doing to American farmers.
They don't give them access to software needed for repairs.
They get the software from
" napster" .I mean black market.
There is a lawsuit against them now from a number of farmers.
@@wrnhokie My library used to have good stuff available. Both hard copy manuals and access to online tech info. Now the online tech info sucks and newer paper manuals are a hit and miss if they have them at all. Sad!
That is the most organized and cleanest U-Pull It yard I have ever seen
Guy has unbelievable diagnostic skills! Never ceases to amaze me.
All those fancy papers on dealer walls about master techs etc don't mean much if they cannot fix it. Eric you are amazing.
...you mean master-bators, not master techs. Those people with fancy tools and certificates of proficiency coming out the ying-yangs are as good as the tits on a bull.
I saw a fancy paper on the wall covered in dust. Turned out to be expired 7 years ago. I laughed so hard when I noticed it at one of my local stealerships. Another thing that happens at stealerships is only having one guy certified and employing six more who are not. That makes it hard to say if the person working on your car is certified. I think they are happy to find someone who has a drivers license and can pass a drug test.
Y’all have no idea how cool I thought it was two weeks ago when I stopped for the night at the truckstop just down the road from Wilburt’s and realized how close I was to SMA.
I honestly considered doing a drive-by and tooting the airhorn the next day to see if I could be “that guy“ in one of the videos.
I think of SMA every time I drive to and from Rochester to see my daughter. Love the videos and Wilbert’s is always a treat.
Pilot or love's?
@@SouthMainAutohey brother. 40 year Master Tech here. I truly love your videos. Never can learn enough about repairing these engineered jigsaw puzzles. Your integrity and knowledge can be a rare find in our business. I'm a frequent visitor of Wilbert's in Williamson. Great facilities. Can you please share what model Autel scanner you use? Much appreciated and keep on wrenching!
@@SouthMainAutomiss the old kanona truck stop.
@@SouthMainAuto Loves for a couple of their cheddar sausages, then Pilot for a nap and a… well, a bath.
Thanks for asking, and for keeping us all entertained! I know I appreciate it.
Imagine putting the computer in the wheel well and expecting it to last a long time? The engineers are Kookoo.
ikr
@@barry009 they have a lot of faith in conformal coatings.
the pcm belongs in the interior away from heat and water/moisture.
Better on the wheel well than where Ford had them in the 1980s. My 1984 Ford Escort had its module slapped against the engine. Problem was, instead of the module dissipating heat it got super hot from the engine and burned up. I went through half a dozen modules before I realized why the modules kept falling. The dealer could not help. They only replaced them. I ended up re-locating the module off the engine and never had another module fail again. I wrote Ford telling them of their mistake and they never responded. That was the last Ford I ever owned.
Hey. If the voyager probe still works.....
The dealerships may have made more money on that job, but now you'll have a new customer for life!!( Guaranteed!) Great job/video.
And I hope that lady NEVER goes back to that dealer. I worked for Mopar dealers in Minnesota for a long time and NONE of them would have allowed a tech to get away with that kind of crap. Must be a New York thing!
She'll be back because that van is a trash dump on wheels. They break down regularly.
You'd think that. I'm booked too far out to take on new customers. They typically can't wait a few weeks. That is why these deals are usually a one and don't never see you again type of thing 🤷♂️
@@SouthMainAutoWhy not expand hiring local folks interested in being a mechanic?
@@billwTCan I think the apprenticeship program would be best so he can hire the tech that will most likely have the willingness to learn. You can't teach people to have a good attitude.
I am always amazed how this guy can fix something that has been seen by others at dealerships can’t fix.
Where I live, three Super Master Techs at three different dealerships could not do what you just did. They said the vehicle was beyond repair. Young man, the more I watch, the more I'm impressed with your abilities and integrity.
ECUs, PCMs, whatever alphabet soup the manufacturer spelled out of his cereal box that morning- rarely go bad these days. Most techs go for "" well, it fixed the last car" parts cannon and hope for the best. Because Eric actually understands the entire system, he nails root cause quickly. His talent is rare and appreciated by many. ROCK ON SMA!
"Not a car guy" is the most real thing ever said by someone who has actually worked with cars for most of their life 😂😂
Seriously... I'm not a car guy. Not even a little 😂. This is my job and I enjoy fixing them I just have little to no interest in them after work. I think cars are stupid and a waste of money but a necessary form of travel. That's why I say I'm not a car guy 🤷♂️
@@SouthMainAutosince you have zero emotion about cars and you can clearly learn to be a technician on any kind of vehicle, what are your thoughts on ev’s?
Eric the car guy said same thing. Meh, I agree.
@@SouthMainAuto Doing this for living is one way to ruin hobby aspect! But I can't quit!
@@SouthMainAuto whatever happened to that WJ you were souping up?
It's always a nice treat when a SMA video starts off at Wilbert's
I just went through this exact situation on 08 Ram 1500. Bought off a dealer at a hefty discount, because they had no interest in figuring out the code issues. Truck is for son about to get his license and your channel has definitely given me confidence to really get after troubleshooting myself, which I enjoy.
So guess what? Pulled codes fought with an O2 sensor heater fault and ended up blaming the ecu. Expensive part if I’m wrong… however opted for a used one from a vendor the forums had recommended and that was it! Bad ecu circuit to O2 heater… so great to see today’s video.
The ONLY question is " will it fix the car " ? Your honor , this is the factory . They have the complete engineering staff , factory trained technicians , factory tools , etc. They gave a written estimate . They are the experts on this vehicle . They charged me $$$$.$$ to NOT fix the car . Then they claimed it needed more parts OR " it couldn't be fixed " ! I demand ALL my money back . The car is exactly the same . But now I am out $$$$.$$ and have a car that is NOT fixed but does several new parts that were NEVER needed . " But we TRIED to fix it " ! But FAILED !!!!!!!!!! It will cost them hours in small claims court . I would not even pay a diagnostis fee because they failed . Go pay a taxi to drop you in the wrong town !😂😂😂 Great lesson and fix Eric ! Wilberts for the win !
I read all that and I have no idea what you said. are you saying you're not going to pay your bill at the dealership? if you don't, you just gave your car to them. they will apply for a lein, get a title in their name and sell it to auction to get their money. you have no say in this.
There’s parts changers and there’s actual technicians. Eric is a master at his craft.
What I find most entertaining and fascinating is the pure joy that comes through as you work solving each puzzle. The editing and content are straightforward. There’s no useless “fluff.” The work you do is a blending of art and science and the result is pure poetry. Keep it up and thanks for spreading joy by following your passion.
Such great diagnostic skills. But more importantly integrity, test and verify. It’s such a shame that the dealers and other independent shops are so willing to throw parts at it when it does not need them. Thanks Al always for great video and commentary
Theres no day like an SMA day when you just sit back relax enjoy Eric fixing some cars and making some jokes :)
How in the world can shops shake down these people for thousands of dollars, then give 'em an estimate for thousands more to actually fix the thing? (When the additional thousands wouldn't have fixed it either!)
Unbelievable... People should be hauling these charlatans into small claims court to get some financial recovery!
Outstanding job again Mr. O.. You probably have a new forever customer!
We call them STEALerships for a reason...
@@peterhodgkins6985 the problem is mechanics who don’t know how to troubleshoot, and don’t know anything about electronics.
When you know how to properly troubleshoot it makes you look like a miracle worker, things that others struggle with for weeks you can fix in minutes.
The fundamental algorithm of troubleshooting is this: divide a complex system into simpler subsystems, then test each of the subsystems. Additionally one needs to be incredibly careful about assumptions. It’s very easy to rule out the actual solution by assuming.
You know they'd go to the tried and tested, "well, you needed those other parts before we could finish the diagnosis."
@@wackyvorlonNo. The problem is shops not standing behind their work. There's got to be some sort of liability to charging the customer for a service (fixing the problem) and not doing the job.
@@Wheelman81 My son was literally told this. He and I get along like oil and water and trying to tell him this would just cause an argument.
So I sit back and let him do what he wants and just keep to the subjects that are safe to talk about.
Ambient noise is a constant at SMA; if it isn't The Big Dog, That Guy, or Lawn Mower Neighbor, it's a train. Only a matter of time until a marching band makes an appearance.
The Silent Hill horn scared me the first time I heard it
Or that air raid siren always spooks me out 😂
It’s a great day when we go out to Wilbert’s shopping and looking at stuff.
This is my 3rd career, but I was always very mechanically inclined due to my father’s influence of diesel and gasoline engine repairs. I helped manage a fellow veterans auto repair shop. I noticed that on occasion, some of the dealerships didn’t do the correct diagnosis. It turned out they didn’t devote sufficient time because they were in the clock to move cars out. Cars on lifts or stalls do not make money. Dealerships are no t in the business to loose money. That’s why I believe that many of these independent shops will and can at times, devote more time to analyze vehicle problems. Eric O just gained another faithful customer. It’s a win-win for everyone
Folks in your region are fortunate to have both you and Wilberts.
That train is carrying nothing but lawnmowers, road salt, and little red clips.
You can hear that it stopped to drop off lawnmowers across the street.
@@TVwatcher-ic3ne And cans of brakleen, and rust penetrant.
Well, the engineer is also testing the hearing of the town folk and a bunch of us on the internet ... safety first I suppose.
@@xyzzy7145 There is noting to "suppose", because in 2022, there were 260 deaths, and 2,200 accidents from trains hitting cars, even with the "safety first" horn blasts. Federal Regulations, going back 150 years, _require_ a 96-110db horn (jet engine loud). At every street, the regs mandate two longs--a short-a long. SMA is 600 feet from the River St crossing, 400 feet from the S Main St crossing, 300 feet from the Grant St crossing, 500 feet from the Maple St crossing, and 1000 feet from the Carrington St crossing.
Still,we can suppose
It's not just a few clicks of a button and a trip to the junk yard. It's the years of knowledge and experience that fixed it, along with proper testing. A+
I hear the train a commin' commin' round the bend 🎶🎶
I AINT SEEN THE SUN SHINE SINCE I DON'T KNOW WHEN
MAN... I would spend a whole day @ ol' WILBERT's just screwing around! Like a kid at Christmas haha.
I loved walking around the junk yard when I lived near one!
@@Loulito they used to have multiple junk yards when i was younger and working in my dads garage but now they don’t like you walking around in the yard anymore around here. I used to put a lot of car parts on my dads account back then.
Only place more fun is a Tractor junk yard !!
Yip, me too....
Super impressive diagnostics. I learn something every time I watch.
Sound effects: Normally lawn mower but today it is the train horn.
Lawn mower was still there, just drowned out ....
The times, they are a changin
Or. " CHEVY THUNDER: LOL
Eric, my friends and family get tired of me talking about your trouble shooting skills and how good you are and the issues you find when nobody else can. You should be teaching the techs at the dealerships your skills. I'm in Michigan and sure wish you were closer to work on my vehicles. Everybody assumes the dealers know everything on troubleshooting and car repair but time and time again you systematically find the problem. Awesome work. And when you say " If I can do you can do it". I don't think I could.
Info is out there for people to learn.
I think sometimes people forget Eric basically grew up in a workshop and has many years of experience under his belt, the tools, and the reference material which is why he makes it look so easy.
Every time I see Wilbert's salvage yard, it brings back memories of my dad's and uncles' repair shop. Thanks for bringing us along. 😊
"How often does that train go by?" "So often you won't even notice it."
Maybe Im crazy, but I do not recall ever hearing a train in one of his videos...
I know that movie. Just quoted a different line in another comment somewhere. It was the 106 miles to Chicago scene.
I liked the one in "My cousin Vinny"!
CCE Kurtis would say "F### off train" to that
Wilberts and an interesting diag, that's what heats my sensors baby!
Yet another quality video showing off your superior ability! The 3 shops and especially the dealership should be ashamed of charging for not fixing. Unfortunately you make it look so easy, but who is teaching all these other guys? Why don’t they care enough to learn the basics that you use? Or at least not try and just send them to you in the beginning? You are obviously one of a kind and we are all so lucky to be able to watch and learn from you!!!
I see a Chevrolet Equinox at Wilbert's. My sons blew transmission up at 64,000 miles. Got a settlement from GM. You are so good at diagnostics!
Oh that guy must've put train horns on his mower
I love your local Pick a Part Eric. So clean and tidy, and the wheels are still on. Ours is messy, the fuel tanks have been holed and drained, and people have wrecked good parts to get what they want. Like ripping door panels off to get to speakers or door mirrors. I love Pick a Part, costs us $2 to get in but a shame to see how people have trashed good vehicles whilst they owned them and then scrapped them. They must have lost $1000s when basic maintainance and care would have kept them going longer. I love your videos, explanations and your humour. Keep it up Eric, cheers...
Some say that train is still passing by days later.
That train is as slow as centerpoint fixing power outages after Beryl made landfall in southeast Texas.
What we didn't know was that the lawn across the street was cut three times while the train passed by.
Never saw a junkyard like this before!! Everything up on blocks and in order! Im use to the junkyards with cars piled all over the place and weeds growing around them and an old guy named "bob" sleeping in a little shack that owns the place!!
I used to run a bodyshop that had a you pull yard just down the street. After particularly stressful days i would go down and walk thr yard. I started remembering the vehicles in there and repaired many vehicles using parts from the yard. I wound up running the yard for 2 years after i left the bodyshop business. Still would walk the yard after hours, i found it therapeutic to look at all of the used and abused vehicles.
It amazes me how a dealership can't fix a problem yet here you are killing it in no time. Well done 👏
Anytime I repair a vehicle another shop or mechanic could not repair I seem to end up with a new customer for life. Another great job Eric! keep up the good work!
My other favorite parts store.
The wrecking yard.
Thank you for posting your visit.
SMA to the rescue again! I’ve been in the industry for 18 years now and wish I could work with someone this good to learn off. Glad he has the channel! Eric O best technician I’ve never met!
The dealer standards are pitiful everywhere. And they wonder why folks hate stealerships. Great scientific analysis through observation, testing, verification through replication and correction. Very logical and scientific. Shane on all the other mechanics.
Dealership mentality:
Door latch sticks?
Plug in the scan tool.
I think you are the best mechanic tracking down problems and solving them for a minimal cost to the customer
Nice to know you can put a used pcm in that vehicle. Sometimes swapping in a used module if it's available is faster then all the individual tests. Now if a previously enjoyed part is not available then that's a different story. Nice fix!
@@PhillipBailey I am proud of you you are a good mechanic I always watch your videos and I learn from you how to fix Cars and how to use scantool correctly I indebted to you and the owner this channel Soth America both of are genius,,,🌹🌹🌹
If you read the Honda service info that's how part of their diagnostic flow chart. If nothing else fixes it, "substitute a known good PCM." Because everyone has known good PCM's laying around.
You get a very satisfying feeling when you fix a problem that other people (some trained people) have tried and failed. I worked in maintenance for 35 years and learned that some peole are fixers and some are not.
And just like that, a new customer for life! Great job as always, Eric.
Thanks for taking us all on another entertaining field trip to Wilbert’s. I think a few of your viewers may have missed the reference to “Gibb’s Rule Number 1” ..as in Leroy Jethro Gibbs of the NCIS tv show. Very Cool.
Sad that a dealership can’t even do a proper diagnostic test
problem is nobody wants to pay for diagnostics they just want you to magically know what's wrong in 5 seconds and throw in a part.
Work in a dealership for 3 months and you'll quickly realize that diagnostics don't get you paid, if you spent 2 hours trying to diagnose an electrical fault not only would you not get paid for it but you'll most likely be fired. They only care about volume and sales.
@@ranger178Ah, so it's the customer's fault... SMH
@@stevewhite3424 no it is whole system. we need a different system nowadays with complicated cars and expensive parts you can't just guess and try most obvious stuff like years ago.
I am with you on this one, I think the dealership should have Dr. Eric teach a class to their techs and pay him, then pay the techs to watch SMA videos. lol
You planned the whole video around that train, didn't you? 😂 Great as always, Eric.
It wasn't even a train lol. It was the big machine that changes out the ties. Sounds like a train though :)
beat's lawn mower man!
Obviously the dealers don’t watch your videos, otherwise “they could do it”!
@@SouthMainAuto Was half expecting the locomotive in the shop for some diagnostics!
I thought Eric was just swearing up a storm and he was getting bleeped out😂
I'll be 78 next month, and I remember when all you saw in a "junk yard" was OLD cars. Like 20 years old and older. Look at the cars in Wilbert's, most are only a year or a few years old. What does that tell you? WE ARE GOING BACKWARDS!!!!
You are so right, modern cars are junk. I am a similar age to you, I will be keeping my 8 year old diesel Ute, it will be my last car. I am not going to risk buying a pile of junk. Cheers from Australia.🇳🇿
i think you're thinking 20 year old cars are from the 80's. 20 years ago was 2004
We're going backwards because junkyards crush vehicles nobody needs parts for? Its a business. Not a museum.
Why make something of good quality that will last when you make cheap shite and sell ten times more 😢
Alternatively, upstate NY (where Eric's shop is) puts down so much "salt" during the winter that most cars have their frames rotted out by the time they are 15 years old.
I saw a Wilberts van in Ithaca today in front of a Mexican restaurant. I didn't know they traveled this far.
Those who drive for a living know where the food is good !
@rogerdedrick373 Viva Tacqueria? They have good taste!
As long as the van works and has fuel, it should be able to travel anywhere there's connecting pavement.
@@KillaninjaFC Chipotle's
Most techs maybe 90% don’t know how to diagnose modern vehicles and they are only getting more complicated. I was at the store yesterday and this brand new Kia something was beeping like a forklift as it was backing out the parking spot next to me . I keep waiting for a piece of heavy equipment to appear in my backup screen.
I needed the window and door lock switch for my truck and visited the junkyard. I walked around like Eric and said all the things. I even told the gal at the counter “here’s your problem lady”. It was great fun.
Awesome job as always Eric. Your troubleshooting skills are incredible!
Love the computer fail videos and Wilbers! The customer will be thrilled...then she will be pissed at all the money she spent at the other shops!! Great job!!
Great video Eric love it when you go to the junk yard and fix what a dealership couldn't... Priceless!!!!
I know it’s just another day at the office for you but repairing that van truly helped out the owner. Just imagine if she had to junk that thing and buy a new car would have cost her. We are all struggling to get by these days. Great job I’m sure she was delighted with you. The dealership should make their techs watch this video.
👀 👀 I'm gonna go out on a limb here Mr.O an say the entire community probably wants to see that picture 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
gearhead, Luna only shares her photos with Eric 💡👌
Please no.. I want to believe in a town of less population than my single neighborhood that there's pre-internet normality
Please yes! I want to believe that in a Town and Country anything goes! I'd subscribe to the Eric O O/F!@@COBRO98
You can have it. It's a picture Eric sends to Vanessa of himself when he's gone for more than a few hours. This is a no judgement channel.
That yard needs to be a sponsor
Many many years ago I was an ASE technician. I worked at a Chevy/Subaru dealership for a short time. It was awful working there. They wouldn't do the GM training, the back stabbing was unreal as well. I learned more working in private shops hands down. Never to the level Eric is, but I still do 99% of my own work. Great videos and like others I am amazed at your skills!
Dealerships. I’ve got two recalls on my new car and I don’t even want to get involved with their shenanigans. Besides, they’re so overwhelmed that when I try to set up an appointment they tell me we’re months out for what is essentially a visual check and a software update on a parking brake. I use a local shop with a great mechanic for my other vehicle and oil changes. Happy to help support a local business, not willing to subsidize a scam operator.
I got that beat I got a recall I called scheduled my appointment and took off work drove over to the dealer sat for 1 hour then they came and said they didn’t have the part to do the recall after calling me to come get it done and scheduled it
The dodge dealership I’m at will do software update recalls same day. There is a service backlog, because we are severely short handed. Seems like the younger generation doesn’t want to to the physical labor required in this profession. Im 45, got back into the field in 22, and have no problem working 10 hours a day in the heat. Beats being stuck behind a desk.
My VW has a recall for the ignition switch. Almost every one of them since a Mk2 has had this issue anyways.
The one in the wife's car is definitely hinky, pull the key out and like 3-5 seconds later the interior light comes on (the colder it is the slower it reacts).
Not really worried about it until it breaks , because try getting an appointment like you said.
it is nice to see you have a reputable auto wreck used part outlet . Wilberts has good service record to follow all stock. Great to see his stock helps you repair customers auto's!
A 1 auto is YOU THANKS Mr magoo here in Milo, Maine You Make good sience thanks for the indepth troubleshooting. You are a BLESSING to watch in action..... 101 points
A bad day at the boneyard BEATS a good day at work ANYDAY!!! I personally have a 1995 ford F250 4x4 351w and my late wife's 2012 Dodge grand caravan and when I'm done grabbing whatever I went to pick and pull for I enjoy just walking around the cars!!
I could maybe do it if I had all your years and years of experience, but I keep learning new things each time. Great job as always. Have a great weekend!
Eric I can't even begin to tell you how much respect I have for you as a shop owner for going to a you pull it to get your customers back on the road reasonably. It's so amazing!!
That song you sing , if I can DOIT you can too , no sir , after this show I felt so dumb but still enjoy SMA Production.
Been watching for a while now from down under in Napier, New Zealand. A retired engineer and very impressed by your work ethic Eric, your an inspiration to the trade. Well done Sir😉👍
That junkyard was FULL of Chryslers, as expected.
I out-Ericed my local shop by doing some graphing on an o2 sensor with my basic Autel. They told me they would have just thrown an o2 sensor in there. Turned out to be a broken heater wire.
You're teaching the masses, Eric 👍🏻
I like any SMA video that has the words "Dealer" or "Another Shop" in the title.
Most of the junkyards around me are very seedy, one of them it is a regular occurrence to hear gunfire from the neighborhood next to it. This one seems very refreshing and pleasant, beautiful trees all around.
Don't ever think a Stealership is the answer. Especially on an older vehicle. They'll shotgun parts on your dime everytime. We need real technicians like Mr O. 🤛
I swear, Eric, if it isn't the guy running his lawn mower then it is a freight train coming through town. It doesn't matter I will still watch. Wikipedia says that there was a railroad line that was severed through Avoca many years ago. They must have reconnected it. Great job on the Caravan. If you were that lady's last hope she was in good hands. GREAT VIDEO!
Great video with a great start!
I love that junkyard. The ones around here are all growed up with weeds, snakes crawling around in the cars and the cars so close together you can hardly open a door.
If it ain't the lawnmower man, it's the engineer!
I kept waiting for that Train to pull in the empty bay for the Renownd South Main Service : ) it was sound off closer and closer!
Dr. O. Calling Dr. O. ECM code blue.Last hope emergency! Don't worry lady. I'll replace that heart with junk yard parts.
Another great diag....good olde Wilberts !
Dam that lawnmower guy got a new horn 😂😂😂
(I do know it’s a train)
I’m glad you’re getting your heart healthy walk!!! Keep up the good work!!
Eric O the last hope, is now SMA 1st for life ...
A walk through at Wilberts is like a walk through of an old school hardware store!
The only benefit to having a car with the parts cannon fired at it… is you know everything that won’t fix it!
Thanks for letting us watch !
I still don't comprehend how repair shops "diagnose" a vehicle, charge hundreds or thousands for parts and labor, and it doesn't fix the vehicle. How can they possibly charge the customer ?
Because their greedy crooks, just like politicians and attorney's..
And then give up!
You allow them to. When you approve the work. Some states they don't even have to fix it and you pay. So it's lame. Gotta know how a car works these days.
That has to be the best-looking salvage I have ever seen.
I know many have said that you treat “the people” as if we were right there beside you. I got so engrossed that I was shifting my iPad around trying to see past a reflection on the scanner. You can’t get much more into a video.
BTW - Moving the iPad didn’t help. The dealer would have replaced it.
😂
Wilbert's and SMA carry the day again! Well done Mr. O!
The dealership, having made literally THOUSANDS of dollars of mistakes, should be forced to REFUND that money!! 😡
Or a least settle with her by charging her only for the new parts (she's keeping) and no labor (that didn't fix the problem). Dealer would never agree to put the old parts back and you probably don't want them near your car anymore anyway but they may compromise a bit. Labor was probably 70% of the cost.
Really enjoy how you take us along your journey to find out what the failures are with each repair. It’s very informative for me and sure it is for most watchers. There are few auto mechanics like you out there To many young mechanics only go by what the computer tells them no common sense anymore. Great work😊😊😊
In all the years I've been watching you Eric, I legit think this is the first time we've seen you wearing shorts at work. Your boss finally institute casual Friday dress attire?