Buick LeSabre: Customer Replaced ECM Now A No Start, No Lights, NO NOTHIN!

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  • Опубліковано 4 лип 2018
  • In this video we have a look at a Buick LeSabre that the customer replaced his own ECM on. He was told by another shop that this would fix his low power complaint. Now he had to have the car towed here because it will not crank, and NONE of the functions of the car seem to work. It does not take long to find out the whole story! As we have learned many times before, there is allllllways more to the story. -Enjoy!
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 3,6 тис.

  • @SouthMainAuto
    @SouthMainAuto  5 років тому +222

    Scan tool used in this video:
    *Launch X431 Diagun IV Auto Full System Diagnostic Tool OBD2 Scanner Code Reader with Bluetooth/Wifi Support 2 Years Free Update : amzn.to/2vA7i44

    • @edwardalamo2507
      @edwardalamo2507 5 років тому +14

      South Main Auto Repair Old saying a doctor just has a male or a female but a auto mechanic has hundreds of different patients

    • @Ineptus_Mechanicus
      @Ineptus_Mechanicus 5 років тому +11

      Christ, I think I'm a bad DIY mechanic and then I see shit like this. "Oh, yeah, it's a delicate part, sure, but I'll bet I can just put the wrong part in and beat the absolute shit out of it until it fits".
      (By the way, my car's killing a fuel pump just about every month. Slowly loses power over that time until the car starts coughing and won't accelerate. Any ideas?)

    • @TechnoTinker
      @TechnoTinker 5 років тому +11

      You don't get to see the true nature of a person until it's 2 AM before a work day and the car they started working on at 5 still won't start. "Hulk mad! Make fit now!" I'm doing my alternator tomorrow, so I'll probably be in the same boat.

    • @mikegee8900
      @mikegee8900 5 років тому +15

      Can you do a review on the launch x431 diagun scanner in a future video?

    • @baldy194859
      @baldy194859 5 років тому +3

      what year is that Buick ? I had a 97 once and the battery was under the hood !

  • @Michigan_Tactical
    @Michigan_Tactical 6 років тому +2525

    If you think hiring a good mechanic is expensive, wait until you hire a bad one.

    • @factsdontcareaboutyourfeel7568
      @factsdontcareaboutyourfeel7568 6 років тому +41

      Well those valves aint gonna munch themselves mister, until a hack does the timing.
      Don't ask me how I know - it's too painful. I loved that motor.

    • @Honeypot-x9s
      @Honeypot-x9s 6 років тому +23

      Johny Harbinger techs and mechanics are two different people as I see it..
      a tech is less hands on..techs mostly do diagnostics.
      mechanics are the ones getting dirty and physical with the vehicle.
      Both should know each other’s job and be able to do each other’s job. Just specializing more one way than the other. Like Eric O here, Eric is a mechanic, but he also does the tech’s job just as well and as easily. He just specializes in using his brain in more of a physical manner aka physically tracing down issues, opening things up and finding problems to solve that’s what makes him more of a mechanic.

    • @Honeypot-x9s
      @Honeypot-x9s 6 років тому +21

      oh that's rough man! but im glad they not kicking you to the curb and im glad that your honest not a part swapper type.
      a backstory that triggers me hard core:
      my friend owns a Nissan GT-R (2016 Nismo Edition) they just quoted him for needing bunch of work almost $15 grand worth of shit! most peopel that own a $175,000 car will just do it and thus Nissan dealer makes good money suckering people in... well he got a second opinion from my mechanic that works on stuff at my farm, and my mechanic started looking around for all of 20 seconds and said, they didn't even touch a damn thing, just visual inspection they probably didn't even pop the hood! pulled out a scan tool and basically they came up with all their ideas from that it looked like.. long story short only costed my friend $800 and most of that was labor fighting with a modern 210+MPH supercar being picky about things, the it only needed 1 part that was freaking the computers out...

    • @padroooo
      @padroooo 6 років тому +6

      I am saving your quote. Good one, thank you.

    • @carlbruschnigjr1757
      @carlbruschnigjr1757 5 років тому +50

      Used to have a sign at my shop . . .
      LABOR RATES (per hour)
      To fix the car $25
      If you give me the parts $35
      If you tell me how to fix it $45
      If you tried to do it first and couldn't $100
      Stupid looks are still free.

  • @MrJeffcoley1
    @MrJeffcoley1 5 років тому +584

    “The computer is telling me the car has problems. I want a new computer.”
    That’s like saying “my scale says I’m overweight. I want a new scale.”

    • @paveldalesssandro6920
      @paveldalesssandro6920 5 років тому +7

      The car computer say new car code lol wtff lol

    • @stevenbradford6138
      @stevenbradford6138 4 роки тому +19

      I am an instrumentation technician at a steel mill. We get calls every day saying there is something wrong with your instruments. A very common one is they call us saying a gas valve for a burner isnt working. We take a look at the trends and see that the valve is 100% open and the gas back pressure is at supply pressure. We tell them to get mechanical to change the burner because it is plugged, and oh look the issue goes away.
      But no it is the instruments that are bad...

    • @peterbeharry2734
      @peterbeharry2734 4 роки тому

      Dee

    • @frigglebiscuit7484
      @frigglebiscuit7484 4 роки тому +13

      @@stevenbradford6138 wish i could take their job....been working my ass off and on my knees begging trying to get into a mill. even have an associates degree related to it. only buddies and kids who impregnate the mill managers daughter get in.

    • @graffitifilmz4901
      @graffitifilmz4901 4 роки тому +5

      0 ÷ 5 = error. Aye, this caculator broke

  • @funksterbass
    @funksterbass 3 роки тому +104

    "if it doesnt fit, dont force it fellas" ...a valuable lesson there for many things in life

    • @yanglue611
      @yanglue611 3 роки тому

      I know right. Just when the saying "If it doesn't fit, make it fit" goes wrong

    • @btm380
      @btm380 3 роки тому

      That's a valuable lesson i thankfully learned years ago.
      I share it often.

    • @Zerpersande
      @Zerpersande 3 роки тому +1

      If it don’t fit, force it.
      If it breaks it needed replacing anyway.

    • @craigl765
      @craigl765 2 роки тому

      If it doesn't fit, get a bigger hammer.

  • @CryptoTonight9393
    @CryptoTonight9393 3 роки тому +100

    I wish all mechanics filmed their repairs like this. I would pay extra for it. Its fascinating and it let's me know I'm not being scammed.

    • @orangecounty7144
      @orangecounty7144 2 роки тому +3

      There's bad mechanics out there,with great video editing skills that would scam you just the same.

    • @joshymcdaniel9233
      @joshymcdaniel9233 2 роки тому +1

      90% wouldn’t takes a lot of time to edit etc if they did that they could charge a hair more for customer happiness and then upload to u tube and make bank from views = fn genius could even hire a cameraman after u get your Channel going

    • @wadepatton2433
      @wadepatton2433 7 місяців тому +1

      Most of them are too busy fixing stuff. That's what makes Eric's channel so great. He's only showing us one or two repairs per week- because filming takes extra time/effort/editing and posting. It slows him down, but hey it sells some schwag if you do it right.

    • @samuelrock5809
      @samuelrock5809 4 місяці тому

      If a mechanic filmed all the work what would he be worth? My knowledge is my money. That's what you pay for. I'm not telling you s***😊

  • @AndrewMerts
    @AndrewMerts 5 років тому +211

    Hmm, I wonder why the horn fuse is out... BEEEP. Oh that's why.

  • @ace1usmc
    @ace1usmc 5 років тому +685

    Wow! A mechanic that actually knows how to properly diagnose! It's great to see, brother. Diagnosis is a lost skill these days. Most mechanics are pretty much just parts changers. They will just throw a bunch of parts at a problem, hoping to fix it, rather than actually pinpoint diagnosis. Great job!

    • @Robboned
      @Robboned 5 років тому +12

      Like some say, you throw enough new parts at it you'll have a new machine!

    • @akemonjames
      @akemonjames 5 років тому +17

      there is a difference between a old school mechanic and a certified technician. The tech can't diagnosis. The ole lady took her car in because it wouldn't start, GM certified tech replaced the fuel pump..She ended up replacing three fuel pumps. I went out one day to go somewhere, her car started they shut off...disconnected the battery, 1/2 hour later it started. Ran for two day then quit again. Funny thing is when the passlock security system activates it shuts the fuel pump off. Disconnecting the battery clears the code..Real culprit was the BCM...

    • @vivillager
      @vivillager 5 років тому +11

      I remember when I was a kid, my father would go to a local McDonald ( with me in tow ) and there was a guy who rented a small 2 bay garage to work as a mechanic. One day some guy comes in and complains very loud to the mechanic guy about how he paid money for a repair that didn't correct the issue. After the customer left, mechanic guy sits with the rest of the group and said "What's his problem!? If that didn't fix it, all that means is we have to try something else! That's what I tell people. If you have a problem, and you change something, and you still have the problem, that means it was something else!" And the guys in the group all agreed as if praising his gospel. Except that the guys that know this mechanic wouldn't visit him for anything other than for brake pads or tire rotation. Anything else and even his own friends would take their cars to another shop.

    • @MrFriendsfirst
      @MrFriendsfirst 5 років тому +1

      ace
      When a car gets upwards of 200 thousand miles, why complain about new parts?? There gonna wear out anyway and the money you save not paying 200 an hour to have it looked at will make up for it. Ive never understood your argument, though youre not alone I think most people agree with you. Theres only so many parts, eventually youll fix the right one, and my best guess is usually pretty close anyway.

    • @fresco4500
      @fresco4500 5 років тому +12

      Jim Akemon You got that backwards bud. A mechanic knows how to wrench on a car, a technician can figure out why such wrenching is needed. What do I know though, just an automotive technician.

  • @steel_waffles505
    @steel_waffles505 4 роки тому +13

    The FIRST thing I was taught during my apprenticeship when you encounter an electrical issue was to check ALL fuses visually and with a test light. Hats off to you for your thourough diagnostics.

  • @odiemarilla6096
    @odiemarilla6096 3 роки тому +3

    you're a good teacher bro. common sense is expensive

  • @robertclark9174
    @robertclark9174 4 роки тому +161

    I’m a newer mechanic with a good bit of background but just to let y’all know. The information this man has given me with lab scopes and basic quick 100% diagnostics is unreal. I have help make my small shop better ten fold. It takes a bit longer to be sure of exactly what is causing the problem but we get paid and most of the time nowwww.. with the knowledge we have gained from him we are correct. In New Jersey we went from parts changers to real mechanics. And still learning. Thank you Eric. Much help and appreciate.

    • @Sjef0194517
      @Sjef0194517 3 роки тому +14

      Never a bad thing to educate yourself. Good luck with your shop

    • @aliislam580
      @aliislam580 2 роки тому +9

      im in the new jersey area as well, where’s your shop located? Id love to give you guys a visit & support a small business

    • @carlmoody7685
      @carlmoody7685 2 роки тому +2

      B.c.m?

    • @cloudstrife1125
      @cloudstrife1125 2 роки тому

      @Robert Clark where in New Jersey is your shop?

    • @jamespearce7954
      @jamespearce7954 Рік тому +3

      Life is a learning process and if you embrace it you gain knowledge from everyone, especially those like Eric O. Keep moving forward, you're on the right path.

  • @Scraws
    @Scraws 5 років тому +74

    I wish we could see some of the customers reactions when you tell them, "The other garage is a dingleberry, and screwed you."

  • @lornemelnyk
    @lornemelnyk 4 роки тому +19

    It's refreshing to see a mechanic that actually troubleshoots a problem. I'm a new subscriber now!

    • @MagaNews911
      @MagaNews911 3 роки тому

      Mechanic 52 years. I always check at So Main before I tackle some things I have questions about. I watch him on jobs I have done many times just see if we are thing on the same page. I find myself smiling when I can call the procedure and he does it exactly. Not always but he really does know his stuff. I would call him a diagnostic technician and ace mechanic.

  • @davidlampe4153
    @davidlampe4153 3 роки тому +18

    Eric you’re not just a mechanical genius. Even the mechanics who fix my cars watch your channel. It makes me feel hopeful that they can see how you diagnose and fix everyone’s car’s even the competition.

  • @____________________________.x
    @____________________________.x 5 років тому +202

    I used to work in electronic system repair and this was a solid piece of fault finding, I love how you never assume anything. Real Pro work.

    • @stalinsmyth8370
      @stalinsmyth8370 5 років тому +9

      Assumption is the mother of all fuckups

    • @NuttyProfessor-
      @NuttyProfessor- 3 роки тому

      @Terry Melvin I'm an "I can fix anything guy", I also know when something is not anything if you see what I'm saying lol

    • @anthonymarinelli9224
      @anthonymarinelli9224 3 роки тому

      Terry Melvin tttydfdffeuerrrd

    • @michaelwest2388
      @michaelwest2388 3 роки тому +1

      its better to be the "i can fix almost anything guy" which is me

  • @mrpetit2
    @mrpetit2 5 років тому +247

    You might not have gone to college but as far as diagnostics go, you're absolutely the professor!

    • @FreeRightsProtection
      @FreeRightsProtection 4 роки тому +13

      Auto schools are colleges 😂🤷‍♂️

    • @RobertJones-fl3ky
      @RobertJones-fl3ky 3 роки тому +10

      If you are at all capable college will ruin your right thinking!

    • @rhoonah5849
      @rhoonah5849 3 роки тому +2

      @@FreeRightsProtection Not all of them. Many are professional programs but they are not all colleges.

    • @EddieLeal
      @EddieLeal 3 роки тому +10

      College education is highly over rated and over priced. lol!

    • @Werdnasemajjamesandrew
      @Werdnasemajjamesandrew 3 роки тому +6

      Some of the smartest people ever to live arent meant for the structure of college

  • @robertcohen1888
    @robertcohen1888 3 роки тому +30

    My dad was an auto mechanic and I used to think he was a really good one but this guy is a master mechanic! He knows his stuff he’s not afraid to look at reference material and his logic for troubleshooting is really really good.

    • @wackey3455
      @wackey3455 2 роки тому +4

      He probably didn't have the equipment them days tha we have now it literally tell you what wrong with the cars or puts us in the right direction your da had to work harder to fault find man fair play to your da

    • @jima3129
      @jima3129 Рік тому +4

      I bet your dad was really good. You have to consider how damn ridiculously complicated vehicles have become. Add to that shitty Chinese made connectors made to connect, but not disconnect, rat food insulation on wires, backup cameras, lane departure sensors ond on and on and on, and you have to be not only damn good, have all the right diagnostic tools, and have the patience of a saint. Eric is one of the few people I see with all of the above. I'm sure you have seen how many different diagnostic tools he has. The difference between him and most is that he knows how to use them. 😊

    • @robertcohen1888
      @robertcohen1888 Рік тому +2

      @@jima3129 thank you, he was, he could fix most issues with most cars. He taught me all I know about cars.

  • @mrstl3000
    @mrstl3000 4 роки тому +11

    Too funny when the music started blasting lol

  • @r3alfish
    @r3alfish 5 років тому +126

    His "WHOA"'s always get me! 😂

  • @jessie361293
    @jessie361293 5 років тому +467

    You sir are a good and honest mechanic we need more like you because it's getting hard to find.

    • @deemack3719
      @deemack3719 5 років тому +17

      I AGREE, GOOD MECHANICS ARE ALMOST EXTINCT...HE IS PASSIONATE ABOUT HOW TO A DIAGNOSE A VECHILE.. FANTASTIC VIDEO! SUBSCRIBING RIGHT NOW.

    • @psdaengr911
      @psdaengr911 4 роки тому +4

      It's easier for a competent mechanic to be honest than for a incompetent one. No excuses or finger pointing is needed.

    • @erikturner5073
      @erikturner5073 4 роки тому +7

      Another thing that's hard to find is diecent paying employer hence one reason for the tech shortage.

    • @bobkos333
      @bobkos333 3 роки тому +2

      @@erikturner5073 Agree with this. The customers generally look at diagnostics as a gratis service and are not willing to pay much or anything for that service. Hence in many shops it is an unprofitable skill and is shunned in favor of loading a parts cannon which IS profitable. Sad state of affairs in the auto repair industry.

    • @erikturner5073
      @erikturner5073 3 роки тому +5

      @@bobkos333 yeah, after being a master certified technician for 22 years I decided this year to hang it up and take another professional path. For a long time I liked being and automotive technician. Not disputing your take. However even though I enjoyed what I did, I gotten tired of the typical shop politics, flat rate pay, overloading of technicians( too many technicians and not enough work) causing for a CUTTHROAT environment in which technicians fight over jobs in order to attain a diecent paycheck. Plus too many bosses do the aforementioned plus give reasons as to why they can't pay the proper rates. Eventually in most cases you find out why over time listening to conversations. It's either they have too many toys, and extramarital affair, a gambling problem, or a very expressive lifestyle, take your pick. Technicians have many of pressures, along with the huge investment in tools, constant training to keep up with the rapidly changing automotive systems. Most technicians like the profession. Although it's the excessive BS that comes with is to why from a techs point of view professionals are leaving the field, and it will continue until the standards in the industry change.

  • @garygallery2425
    @garygallery2425 2 роки тому +3

    The first thing my dad taught me was how to diagnose a problem with my cars it's been a valued skill my whole life!!! Thanks pop miss you so much!!!!

  • @VigilanceTech
    @VigilanceTech 3 роки тому +9

    At around 7:00 in, the confusion around the "3 pronged fuse" is most likely that you can put the fuse in one of two different positions depending on whether you want the cigarette lighter hotted up only when the car's key is on (or on accessories) or hot at all times

  • @johnmohanmusic
    @johnmohanmusic 5 років тому +82

    15:59 "It's so steamy in here. Reminds me of my college days. But I never went to college." Thanks for the laugh!!!

    • @EddieLeal
      @EddieLeal 3 роки тому +1

      At least not for the education ;) lol!

  • @alexanderbresnahan2932
    @alexanderbresnahan2932 5 років тому +224

    Just a note, the reason the Accessory and cigarette Lighter fuses are laid out like they were (3 socket with 2 pin fuse) is you can change if they receive power if the car is running or not. One position is a "keyed" position, meaning the cigarette lighter and aux plugs are only active if they key is in the Accessory or On position. The other position is the "always on" (direct from the battery) position. To change which mode the cigarette lighter and accessory plugs utilize, you simply move the fuse.

    • @MA-kt8ly
      @MA-kt8ly 4 роки тому +9

      Thanks, learned something new

    • @jacobheisesr9160
      @jacobheisesr9160 4 роки тому +5

      You can get the 3 leg fuse and power it both ways

    • @TheRealParthen
      @TheRealParthen 4 роки тому +1

      Awesome info! Thanks for the new knowledge.

    • @soilmanted
      @soilmanted 4 роки тому +14

      @@jacobheisesr9160 That makes no sense. Think about it.

    • @jacobheisesr9160
      @jacobheisesr9160 4 роки тому +1

      @@soilmanted the primary source is always hot one side is key off hot only the other side is key on hit only

  • @kerryswenson424
    @kerryswenson424 3 роки тому +2

    It is amazing how some people can take a simple problem and turn so far sideways! I appreciate how you go to basics and diagnose because that is what I would have to do!

  • @michaelthompson7570
    @michaelthompson7570 4 роки тому +1

    Thanks for helping me learn a great lesson in humility. Was always told” dont say everything you know”,,but have always been reluctant to heed that advice. But you do it in such a subtile way so as not to offend or appear arrogant, but yet you can stand back and laugh inside! Luv it

  • @klwthe3rd
    @klwthe3rd 6 років тому +280

    Completely speechless. Another shop caused the fuse to blow so it wouldn't start because they misdiagnosed the car and tried to put another ECM in the car, which was the wrong ECM all for the real problem of a bad cat and possible bad starter. WTH! Then when they realized they screwed the car up royally, they push it off to Eric O to save the day. You wonder why we love this channel so much? Just take your car to one of THESE OTHER shops for the day and see what you get back in return. Eric O can't save everyone's car from every other shop. This Buick owner in my opinion got lucky today. Awesome awesome video.

    • @mrb1864
      @mrb1864 6 років тому +19

      the owner done the ecm swap guided by bad prognosis from the shop .

    • @mrdiplomat9018
      @mrdiplomat9018 6 років тому +5

      Mr B
      It’s diagnosis, not prognosis I think. Prognosis is what the doctor tells you after he runs tests on you‼️

    • @mrb1864
      @mrb1864 6 років тому +9

      I used prognosis intentionally .
      You diagnose the fault, your prognosis would be whether you think the vehicle would run perfectly after your diagnostics findings and repair recommendations , indeed more common used by doctors than in this case mechanics but fun to use :-) ...

    • @flinch622
      @flinch622 6 років тому +7

      Hammering home an electrical connector is complete luddite territory. Connectors are keyed differently to protect systems from pin layout differences - I suspect the wrong computer may have been what blew fuses. Why anyone looked at the ECM in the first place is beyond me. If I'm RPM limited [video looked like he couldn't get past 4500 rpm], one of two things has happened: fuel curve is truly out to lunch, or the engine isn't breathing right. That leaves MAF sensor or the CAT as things to check first. Last time I had a CAT clog up on me was due to a turbo seal going out/oil vapors fouling it up.

    • @BuzzLOLOL
      @BuzzLOLOL 6 років тому +15

      I suspect the other shop thought it was in Limp Home Mode because of a 'bad computer'...
      This owner shouldn't even be changing a distributor cap let alone a computer if doesn't know about guide pin differences... square peg in round hole, etc...

  • @elcheapo5302
    @elcheapo5302 6 років тому +69

    Your reaction when the music started blaring was priceless. Knowledge and entertainment always on the menu at SMA. Thanks, Eric.

  • @miketaylor6282
    @miketaylor6282 3 роки тому +12

    The parts cannon strikes again, “Insert evil laugh here”!!!

  • @LHitler
    @LHitler 3 роки тому +3

    You sir are an amazing mechanic, completely honest

  • @dricklorenz9340
    @dricklorenz9340 6 років тому +82

    "it reminds me of my college days. but i never went to college." lolololololol.

    • @johndelta00
      @johndelta00 5 років тому +19

      No college and still smarter, more knowledgeable, and intuitive than many of the "educated" people I've run into.

    • @michaelwitmer7536
      @michaelwitmer7536 4 роки тому +3

      @@johndelta00 Amen, Book smart and common sense are diff. ends of the spectrum

    • @oliverdepauw5663
      @oliverdepauw5663 3 роки тому

      My mom has doctor friends with m.d s and they are kinda stupid outside the medical field like no common core thinking yet ask them to diagnose your current medical issue and they would get it spot on and treat you perfectly. Its amazing how smart one can be without common sense

  • @kenzpenz
    @kenzpenz 5 років тому +150

    I owned a 1998 Buick La Sabre. I bought it new and traded it in for a 2014 GMC Acadia. The Buick was a great car, until it went bad and then it really went bad. I can identify with watching this man checking this and that, until finding the real problem.The previous mechanic, "the culprit" was no where to be seen or heard. Congratulations on a great job of solving this man's problem. I just came across this site and I subscribed for sure. I am 80 years old, but the entertainment value will be priceless. Thanks for sharing, and I hope a million viewers get to see your work. ..Ken Marina CA.

    • @r.five.3
      @r.five.3 5 років тому +21

      Just a tip since you just found this site, 90% of the people will try to ruin your day, just ignore them. Have fun watching aroun, cheers.

    • @Dev-qj7jo
      @Dev-qj7jo 5 років тому +1

      Fuckin with this car

    • @brianortiz2200
      @brianortiz2200 5 років тому +1

      Nice

    • @KimCheongBRO
      @KimCheongBRO 5 років тому +4

      I had a couple 90's buicks, and the electrical problems with them were never ending. I've had much better luck with a current mid 2000's model.

    • @KimCheongBRO
      @KimCheongBRO 5 років тому +3

      @Ultra CNC must have been a lemon, electrically. Every thing else ran like clock work.

  • @jayhernandez9395
    @jayhernandez9395 3 роки тому +2

    Never thought I'd hear a classic G-unit track on this channel. Not disappointed at all.

  • @pma613
    @pma613 3 роки тому +2

    Nice job! That was awesome. I live in Saint Louis and found a smart and honest mechanic just like you.

  • @dalltex
    @dalltex 6 років тому +96

    With so many people looking at UA-cam for auto repair assistance I am totally shocked that anyone within a 100 mile radius of you doesn’t know you by now. Why would they even consider another shop? Thanks again for the time spent in delivering another quality video. Sorry you are having to endure some Texas style heat.

    • @robiscrupe7694
      @robiscrupe7694 6 років тому +5

      i watched every video he put out and I would trust him to work on mine and I live 4 hours away from him he is that good and I would travel that just to get great service

    • @HighestRank
      @HighestRank 5 років тому

      It's 90F in Houston and 90F where I am today on the Atlantic coast. Shared sorrow for two.

    • @kitecattestecke2303
      @kitecattestecke2303 5 років тому

      He is not found by his address here how should people know

    • @killtyrant
      @killtyrant 5 років тому +2

      rob iscrupe
      someone else commented on his review page on Google that they traveled 4 hours to get to him.

    • @davidporowski9512
      @davidporowski9512 5 років тому

      Reminds me of a family problem ( that knew I had ruined her Mustang by setting
      the emergency brake (yellow warning light, iirc) when putting the AT into Park.
      kept driving the mustang until
      wearing out the emergency brake (shoes & drums)
      Absolutely MY FAULT for not
      teaching my relative how to drive?
      Never bothered to call me to ask what I did to damage her
      mustang to run properly (while
      she drove the car for a week, while cursing my name, no doubt?)
      OK? How would you park an
      auto transmission on a hillside
      W/O damaging AT parking pawl? ( Set the parking brake?/Right?)

  • @larsdahl6594
    @larsdahl6594 5 років тому +37

    Among the things that are necessary to live a happy life, having a good, honest and reliable car mechanic is near the top of the list.

    • @se7515
      @se7515 2 роки тому

      Not owning a POS is a good idea too.

  • @victorpena9824
    @victorpena9824 3 роки тому +8

    Two things working on a car.
    My brother, a senior helicopter mechanic of 35 years taught me:
    1. Righty tighty, Lefty loosey.
    2. If it don't fit, don't force it.
    After 50 years, DIY repairs, I teach my son this.
    Thanks, for the visual reminder!

    • @soilmanted
      @soilmanted 3 роки тому +3

      RT-LL is just a "rule of thumb." Occasionally something is Rightly-loosey lefty tighty.

  • @hammetttech8794
    @hammetttech8794 4 роки тому +3

    First SMA video to get 1 million views. Congrats!

  • @matthewmartin7639
    @matthewmartin7639 4 роки тому +31

    "it's all fogged up in here. I can't see shhhhhhhugar in here." Professional save sir. Well done.

  • @edwardschenk7854
    @edwardschenk7854 5 років тому +46

    Yes I know! I’m a “shade tree parts replacer” doing my best to keep my “horses” on the road. It’s great to watch a true mechanic diagnose AND be customer sensitive. Thanks for the teaching!

  • @boogdennard7839
    @boogdennard7839 2 роки тому +1

    The way you handled this job is worth sub any day of the week in my book.

  • @jonathancolling2284
    @jonathancolling2284 2 роки тому

    Followers go to college to learn, but the really clever guys like you lead the way. Very impressive job 👍

  • @mikewilson8594
    @mikewilson8594 4 роки тому +24

    I've been a mechanic for 40 years. There are too many bad ones out there. Love your diagnostic skills on this Buick LeSabre video. If I couldn't work on my own car, I believe I would have to search you out and hire you! Very professional!

  • @krtwood
    @krtwood 6 років тому +570

    Maybe if he hammers that new ECM into the muffler it will fix the cat.

    • @38911bytefree
      @38911bytefree 6 років тому +13

      I would install it on place of the radio and wire the radio into the ecm. I m not worried about the unmatched connectors, because I was hamering anyways.

    • @HighestRank
      @HighestRank 5 років тому +18

      TBH the seal was already torn off, which with having been force plugged into an incompatible vehicle, turned into a Schrödinger's cat.

    • @niteexplorer9934
      @niteexplorer9934 5 років тому +7

      that cat died a long time ago

    • @toothpicdinosaur3777
      @toothpicdinosaur3777 5 років тому

      Was the battery reversed @ one point in it's life?or too many fingers?

    • @godchi1dvonsteuben770
      @godchi1dvonsteuben770 5 років тому

      Maybe if he was muffled, he'd hammer the cat?!? WHAT??!?

  • @gary00832
    @gary00832 3 роки тому +1

    I like your approach to figuring things out! Good job Mr. O

  • @artdrader1526
    @artdrader1526 3 роки тому

    Your one fine technician. Love watching and listening to you diagnose and repair.🇨🇦

  • @mailmanjoe
    @mailmanjoe 5 років тому +52

    That radio going off had my dying! Eric you're reaction made it that much more priceless. Whoa! Lmao

  • @lahotboy
    @lahotboy 5 років тому +92

    Man, this by far is one of the best video's I've seen to date..a real diagnostic video...

    • @landedinlukla
      @landedinlukla 3 роки тому +1

      Check out a channel called Diagnose Dan. Will blow your mind what that dude does with BMWs

  • @johnhauser4589
    @johnhauser4589 3 роки тому

    Dude! Watched the whole video. The world needs more people like you.

  • @jodystephens1021
    @jodystephens1021 3 роки тому +2

    First off great to see an old school honest mechanic.! This 66 yrs young lady is learning alot about her Buick. I like to be knowledgeable when I go in for repairs or fix the simple things myself. My mechanic from another mother retired, so I've had to find a new one. Appears very reputable in my community, always a 2 waiting list to get in. Going in first time on 9/25/20 so I want to be on my A game with as much knowledge as possible on my visits. Thank you for doing these videos.! 💙

  • @mr.h4714
    @mr.h4714 6 років тому +31

    "that's a clue" makes me remember the days the boy would watch blue's clues for hours.....always wondered how he sat through that nonsense....now I get it.....
    .SMA is like blue's clues for gear heads.......

  • @saulns7159
    @saulns7159 6 років тому +29

    Great video, I enjoy these where you don't know the problemlady before starting the camera.

    • @SouthMainAuto
      @SouthMainAuto  6 років тому +5

      90% of the time I never do until we get going :)

  • @williampietrzak3620
    @williampietrzak3620 8 місяців тому +1

    Eric, I used to own a Buick like this one and had trouble with the cigarette lighter. While pulling the fuse out of the fuse box I noticed the same thing you noticed. There were three female receptacles on the fuse box for a two pronged male fuse. According to the Buick booklet that was in the glovebox, 24:14 it states that if you put the fuse in the left two female receptacles the lighter works only with the car running in the ON position. If you put the fuse in the two right female receptacles the lighter will work with the car turned in the OFF position. I absolutely love your channel and have learned so much from you watching it all the time . God bless you and your family.

  • @rolandocurro8842
    @rolandocurro8842 2 роки тому

    You Sir ! , Were born to be a mechanic. You're a natural !!. Really liked your reaction. When the radio just came on for no reason. And the tranny abruptly jumped into gear. Keep up with your great patience and the awesome analizing tech work. Kudos to South Main Auto Repair LLC

  • @MIketucky350
    @MIketucky350 5 років тому +31

    great mechanic. This job is hard. Everyone buys cars and thinks Life is great. NOOO Cars a junk and it takes a great mechanic to keep them running. kuddos to you man.

    • @ZachMan99
      @ZachMan99 4 роки тому +1

      Thing is when you have the shop, resources, and tools this guy has it makes the job a loooot easier.

    • @superlatew2979
      @superlatew2979 4 роки тому +2

      @@ZachMan99 most important tool this gentleman has is a brain that works

  • @haywardsautomotive6156
    @haywardsautomotive6156 6 років тому +110

    Nice diagnosis! Yep multiple symptoms pick easiest less intrusive & let it lead you. Poor guy went to the wrong shop & got boned! Hopefully he comes to you first from now on instead of last. 149K soon to hit 150K :D

  • @steverayrapp
    @steverayrapp 3 роки тому +7

    This is what happens when you don't compare the old part with the new one. You did a great job on this car! I really don't like fixing other peoples nightmares but sometimes you have no choice. :-)

    • @earlestes8649
      @earlestes8649 6 місяців тому +1

      Yeah you do, lol 😝 just say no. All kidding aside, my wifey says that’s my problem! I just did a pro bono for a relative and someone had really messed up the wiring on their electric furnace, the wiring diagram wasn’t even close to what it was. Of course nobody knew what or how that happened 😂. With my volt meter the three new elements were only getting 120 volts after moving around about six wires was able to get the old girl running

  • @agmc4me
    @agmc4me 3 роки тому +2

    Professional work! Great job

  • @DexRobinson
    @DexRobinson 5 років тому +143

    This is why I drive a 1968 Triumph. If it won't start, I hit the engine block with a 2X4. That usually fixes it. The only electronic component is the AM radio.

    • @colin6769
      @colin6769 5 років тому +7

      @@357rmer ah the good old days. 2x4's and warm beer.

    • @kolsen6330
      @kolsen6330 5 років тому +6

      @@357rmer Up at sunrise, a hard days work and home before dark. Lucas lighting. I ride Triumph.

    • @chuckster3629
      @chuckster3629 5 років тому +11

      Lucas Lighting........The Prince of Darkness.

    • @landontesar3070
      @landontesar3070 5 років тому +2

      My TR250 is deteriorating under a lean-to. Geez I need to get it home.

    • @chuckster3629
      @chuckster3629 5 років тому +4

      @@landontesar3070
      The rats and mice have probably chewed through all the wiring by now.

  • @theRealAV8r
    @theRealAV8r 6 років тому +12

    I've always said the best technical troubleshooters have one thing above all - *common sense* . Everything technical comes after that. Lotta guys I knew from way back to young kids today get themselves all twisted chasing peripheral symptoms rather than a simple logical train of thought.
    Great job and I hope this customer had common sense enough to let you continue!

    • @stevek8829
      @stevek8829 5 років тому +1

      Common sense isn't common. It comes with experience and orderly thinking.

  • @dennisboyer8416
    @dennisboyer8416 2 роки тому

    Got into the serious electrical issues of the vehicle and resolved current issues of electrical system recommending further action. Excellent. Debo

  • @prtcountersteer
    @prtcountersteer 3 роки тому +5

    You're good man. Great video. Thanks! Good mechanics are a dying breed and the bad ones are ruining it for all of us.

  • @sashoxxx
    @sashoxxx 5 років тому +134

    ... "I can't see shh- ... sugar"
    had me laughing xD

    • @jraombebsy5754
      @jraombebsy5754 4 роки тому +3

      when you forget that your parents are in the room and you are about to swear

  • @arnie475
    @arnie475 5 років тому +77

    after watching ur video, I enjoyed the way you saved and fixed the ECM problem and if I were the owner of that car ( B-LeSaber ) I would let you finish the fix. Its hard to find a top quality Mech today who isn't out there trying to rip u off....

    • @DavidFMayerPhD
      @DavidFMayerPhD 5 років тому +12

      WRONG: Top quality mechanics do NOT rip off their customers. They provide VALUE for money. The LOW quality mechanics rip off their customers.

    • @mopars23
      @mopars23 5 років тому

      I have a 95 lesabre changed ecm twice and cam and crank sensor , still stalls out it does it when warm. Any IDEAS ? Been at the garage 4 times same problem $800 later

    • @marki61422
      @marki61422 5 років тому

      @@mopars23 mass air flow sensor

    • @mopars23
      @mopars23 5 років тому

      Mark Turner The car is up for sale. I moved on.

    • @fishfire_2999
      @fishfire_2999 5 років тому +1

      True

  • @RobertAdairWorkshop
    @RobertAdairWorkshop 3 місяці тому +2

    This was the very first South Main Auto video I ever saw.

  • @JOHNMORIN100
    @JOHNMORIN100 3 роки тому +1

    Outstanding JOB Watson what a great lesson today 100 POINTS

  • @rodbirch5876
    @rodbirch5876 5 років тому +24

    "The old banana in the tailpipe routine". Love the humor and genuine expertise.

  • @reyman3544
    @reyman3544 5 років тому +27

    Some serious skills there brother. I wish i had a mechanic like you here in the UK. Respect

  • @chrisharris1419
    @chrisharris1419 2 роки тому

    I was a car mechanic and took those skills to industrial machinery...the logic of troubleshooting is the same. It's a learned skill, step by step, using tools, diagrams and experience. Great job.

  • @edwardrestivo7519
    @edwardrestivo7519 2 роки тому

    Good man .Lot’s of patience and I appreciate the clean speech. Means a lot to me.👍

  • @roberttromans8828
    @roberttromans8828 5 років тому +35

    I agree with Arnie269 A mechanic like yourself is hard to find these day's and judging by the video you are good . I'm from across the pond in Tamworth UK and an old school mechanic did my apprenticeship back in 1969 Started on diesel truck's and finished of on car's so I was a pretty good all rounder.I don't do anything now as I'm retired due to Illness. I'm 65 now and can't even drive now let alone do any mechanical work at all keep up the good work and best wishes from Bob T. Jag1.

  • @cree8k
    @cree8k 5 років тому +99

    Thanks, your the kind of guy that makes America a great country!

    • @jumpinjojo
      @jumpinjojo 5 років тому +8

      Tom Sanders You're*

  • @vb859
    @vb859 3 роки тому +1

    Good job, pleasant to watch and listen.

  • @spinroch
    @spinroch 2 роки тому +1

    Excellent diagnostic process!

  • @tonyd7867
    @tonyd7867 6 років тому +33

    Best channel on UA-cam. Thank you for all your knowledge.Happy 4th.

  • @EssenceofPureFlavor
    @EssenceofPureFlavor 5 років тому +51

    You are the best mechanic I've seen on UA-cam so far. Others may be as skilled, but they don't show their process. Definitely subscribing.

  • @10thstjeep
    @10thstjeep Рік тому

    Thank you! Im seriously grateful for your help!
    I watch lots and lots of videos on vehicle repair! I have a 91 yj rock crawler, that Ive been trying to learning to fix by myself, which means lots and lots of you tube videos!) Yours was awesome!
    My daily just killed over during a delivery, and im screwed because of electronics ie: the computer and wiring arent so easy to grasp! My buick is sitting about 2miles away I have no money to tow and use it for my job! This video helped me more ways then you know and I must say THANK YOU very much!
    The lighting and dash lighting are wonky as hell, coming on (staying on) car wont start! You gave me a couple aves I should check out as far as wiring/comp. Issues your graphs (didnt get how you were able to go from ground to fuse so quickly!) But did catch that headlights do play a part in ignition so I should check fuses before changing starter! (Cars so darn low ya cant get to starter to smack it! Its retarded! But I digress! Thanks
    You Rock! Excellent video.

  • @ryanv7195
    @ryanv7195 3 роки тому +1

    Great video. Was like a good old fashioned mystery. Great diagnosing and it's nice you filmed it the whole way. I'm subscribing!

  • @dlux703
    @dlux703 5 років тому +18

    Nice to watch a 'real' problem solver at work. Too bad the client didn't come to you 1st.

    • @damianfarnsworth7474
      @damianfarnsworth7474 4 роки тому +1

      If I had a dollar for every time I gave a price to do a job and the person had another person try to fix it and screwed it up then brought it back to me and my price went up. Why is it more now? Because now I have to fix his mistakes and do what I was going to do the first time.

  • @NRecob
    @NRecob 4 роки тому +31

    “there’s your problem lady” kills me every time! 😂 I learn something every time I watch 1 of your videos. THANK YOU. Finally, Merry Christmas Mr O. & Family.

    • @davidberg9908
      @davidberg9908 2 роки тому

      Great job! i learned a lot about methodical diagnosis and paying attention to what you see.

  • @enerrivers4392
    @enerrivers4392 4 роки тому

    A gr8 & honest auto mechanic is like finding Waldo, gr8 work big guy!!!

  • @davidgreen2442
    @davidgreen2442 3 роки тому +1

    Very informative and highly skilled technician

  • @bborkzilla
    @bborkzilla 6 років тому +25

    "If it doesn't fit, force it. If it breaks, it needed replacement anyhow." :(

  • @baxrok2.
    @baxrok2. 6 років тому +48

    Hard to fathom how anyone could jam the connectors in on an item like that. Guy probably can't even screw in a light bulb! This was a really good one Dr. O. Thanks!

    • @SouthMainAuto
      @SouthMainAuto  6 років тому +8

      Pffff, ever hear of a hammer!? You can make any connector fit with one!

    • @robertweir9034
      @robertweir9034 6 років тому +1

      South Main Auto Repair I'm guessing you have experience in this - back in your computer repairing days? Lol

    • @cmans79tr7
      @cmans79tr7 6 років тому +9

      Ha! We Old Timers would get a kick out of this. A fellow shade-tree buddy of mine did a "tune-up" (points, plugs and rotor) on his '70 Malibu, but after he was done it wouldn't start. He called me up because he knew I had a dwell meter. I hooked it up and 30 degrees, perfect, I checked plug wire firing order, fine. I pulled the dist cap and the rotor looked a touch off kilter...he installed the square peg in the rotor in the round hole in the advance weight tower (causing firing to be 180 off). He didn't see the humor in it that I did.

    • @throttlebottle5906
      @throttlebottle5906 6 років тому

      they're pretty stiff, and the bolt will more or less crank them in there wrong. more so when driven in with impact or power ratchet......
      don't ask, did it one long ago, alcohol involved.

    • @baxrok2.
      @baxrok2. 6 років тому +1

      Okay, well, if alcohol is involved anything is possible. lol

  • @1000blabbities
    @1000blabbities 4 роки тому +1

    lmmmmaooo. when the music kicks in and that particular song starts playing . man it's a release! perfect choice for success being reached

  • @danfarris135
    @danfarris135 3 роки тому +2

    It’s a miracle no pins were damaged. That was some major mismatch

  • @mikehonda7934
    @mikehonda7934 4 роки тому +11

    This was the first video I seen from you. Subscribed, and been following for over a year now. This is the difference between a technician, and a mechanic. Technicians troubleshoot and resolve, mechanics replace parts. Thanks for being a technician like myself, whom is a cover all bases service tech.

  • @paulstan9828
    @paulstan9828 6 років тому +40

    That goes to show you don’t mess with something you don’t understand. Lucky for him you know what you are doing.

    • @paulkirkland1535
      @paulkirkland1535 6 років тому

      Paul Stan: My thoughts exactly. Your're bound to get bitten when you mess with things you don't understand.

    • @Costazx88
      @Costazx88 6 років тому +1

      Paul Stan how else are you going to learn it?It's all hit or miss out there..

    • @kipter
      @kipter 5 років тому

      There's no reason cars should be so complicated just because you can put a computer in it doesn't mean you should.

  • @dwtees
    @dwtees Рік тому +1

    I've been a diagnostic tech for 45 years friend. You have excellent diagnostic skills that I have only seen in a handful of techs in my life time. I disagree. Not many people can do what you do. This vehicle is proof of that. I enjoy watching your thought process. You're a great teacher.

  • @scottfootball65
    @scottfootball65 10 місяців тому

    It's amazing to watch his thought process, pick 1 fault and trouble shoot the 1 fault.. I don't know, guess my mind can't focus on just 1 fault lol, especially when so much seems wrong.. love watching these videos.. thanks

  • @lemagreengreen
    @lemagreengreen 5 років тому +8

    Holy moly, I just can't imagine finding something electrical doesn't fit and instead of investigating you just crank it down and make it fit 😂

  • @thehoff3189
    @thehoff3189 4 роки тому +3

    I thoroughly enjoyed going through the entire diagnosis with you, thanks for bringing us along!

  • @renaetucker5819
    @renaetucker5819 2 роки тому

    I have an 02 Buick LeSabre. I don't have any problems now but this was very informative!

  • @kayeswaim5086
    @kayeswaim5086 2 роки тому

    Thanks for being truthful about it. We need more like you.

  • @fins59
    @fins59 4 роки тому +7

    Love your work, I wish every auto tech was as good and thorough as you.

  • @TheCowgirlNiamh
    @TheCowgirlNiamh 6 років тому +50

    When the music came on ... SMA GOLD!!! 😂

  • @dsg4797
    @dsg4797 2 роки тому

    I like this fella!He knows his stuff,especially electronics issues.

  • @shaneharrison4775
    @shaneharrison4775 3 роки тому +1

    Enjoied the finding the issue and look forward to the grand finally

  • @mrkttrdr2919
    @mrkttrdr2919 6 років тому +7

    Good thing ur getting video proof of the messes that are handed u, I wouldn’t believe it till I seen it, from as simple as blown fuses to wrong computers, ur simply the best, better than all the rest!

  • @htconex19062012
    @htconex19062012 5 років тому +59

    If doesn't fit, don't force it🧐🤓 word of wisdom

    • @spankthemonkey3437
      @spankthemonkey3437 4 роки тому

      htconex19062012 I've had that done, it hurts

    • @erikeggenbakstad
      @erikeggenbakstad 4 роки тому +3

      Thats what she said...

    • @kalijasin
      @kalijasin 4 роки тому

      😳

    • @CERTIFIEDYOUTUBEDOCTOR
      @CERTIFIEDYOUTUBEDOCTOR 3 роки тому

      They forgot the astroglide

    • @railnut8453
      @railnut8453 3 роки тому

      I had a boss that told me “ if it don’t fit use a hammer , if it STILL don’t fit use a BIGGER hammer. “ his shop wasn’t in business long. Thank god!!
      I didn’t believe in that philosophy but he did. He was what I called a gorilla!!! Lol.

  • @TheCrofolks
    @TheCrofolks 2 роки тому

    This is another great learning experience and educational period of instruction from an expert who cares not only about his customers but equally about the profession and craft, while guiding future generations of auto mechanics to hone their knowledge and skills as a continuous process. Thanks for sharing!