Seriously, he would have a line out the door and a backup for at least a year. Work will be non-stop until he retires. And even then I'd track him down lol
As a retired auto tech of almost 40 years, I am so impressed with both your knowledge and your attitude. This industry needs thousands of techs like you.
Very likely as it's a 10 year old car and the owners are rich, even our medical system works like that - everything is designed to make maximum profit off treatments that patients actually don't need
As an experienced Orthopedic Surgeon , I see patients for second opinion and often times can treat the patient without performing some complex surgery that was recommended by previous doctor!!! Always get second opinions for your car and your body parts!
That principal comes with nearly every field. I am a QA engineer and the devs love my bugs for one reason. I research thoroughly before I open that bug. 9 times out of 10 when something doesn't work right, it's an environment issue, or misconfiguration. The environment is complex without the software I test and knowing it is the difference between finding meaningful issues and wasting my time and that of others.
I honestly feel lucky that the only good Honda dealership in the entire province is within hour distance. Here in Ontario Canada Maple Honda and Maple Acura is the most honest. Ive been to almost every honda dealership in the GTA they are the only good ones.
Reminds me of when a Honda tech told me I needed a new engine and then wouldn't give me the keys when I wished to get a second opinion. He told me the car would explode if I were to try and start it. He gave me they keys when I started to call the police. My car started just fine and all it needed was a new radiator cap.
Yeah, another example of crooked mechanics who try all kinds of dirty tricks. Take 2 keys with you when you go to any mechanic. Decades ago a crooked mechanic put my car up on the lift, pulled all the wheels off, then quoted me a ridiculously high brake repair job, & he didn't want to lower the car until I agreed to pay his extortionist price.
Here's another example of a crooked mechanic. At an independent shop the manager told me the price to have a specific repair done. I agreed, then repairs were done. When I went to pick up my car the shop owner, who was the dad of the manager, presented me with a bill that was about $100 higher than what his son & I had agreed to. The dad told me that he was charging me the higher amount because he decided that he wasn't making enough profit at the lower price his son had told me. Of course I told him that he had no legal right to do that to me. He told me that I could sue him, but that he was not gonna let me take my car until I paid the price he demanded. I paid it because I needed my car then. This example was not even the worst example of a crooked mechanic ripping me off. A crooked independent mechanic told me that he could get used engines that were in very good condition & he told me the price was very reasonable. After he installed the engine I paid for the engine & labor. Unfortunately it soon began to run badly. The mechanic refused to do anything. A different mechanic told me the engine was in bad condition & it wasn't worth spending a lot more money on it. I demanded that the original mechanic install a used engine that was in very good condition, like he had originally represented to me. He refused. He refused to do anything. The issue wasn't worth me suing the crooked mechanic. If I had sued him in small claims court I have no doubt that he would have lied to the judge & said that the engine was in very good running condition when I got the car back from the installation. In both cases I have mentioned, I had no idea at the beginning that I was dealing with crooks. The lesson I learned was to only use mechanics who friends told me they had found were honest. The examples I described were before the Internet era, thus there was no place I could find customer reviews.
@@LoneTinaja Yes, also had that happen to me. Car up / no wheels. Talking about rust and need of new car.. bla bkla bkla. I was in light shock... But then my working companion told them in a harsh voice... Get the wheels on and lower the car. They did that. Nothing was wrong with that old Toyota Corolla.
Dang, you guys need to find a honest mechanic. My mechanic, we're somewhat friends. I'm currently unemployed, so he did my oil change, $80, for free. Told me to pay him whenever I find a job.
Those people are now lifetime customers and the word-of-mouth advertising you will get is priceless. That warm feeling of helping people is priceless too.
I'm just pissed that he isn't around here. This man is a jewel. A one of a kind jewel! Not just because of his technical expertise. Not just because of his determination to get it right. But mostly because of his efforts to do right by his customer. If his shop was withn 100 miles of me, I'd buy a Lexus (already have a Toyota) today and take it to him for everything. And, always feel confident that he was doing right by me.
My girlfriend’s son’s 2005 Suburu was diagnosed with bad steering rack. So got my tools and new rack and drove to fix it in a grass parking lot. There was nothing wrong with it but torn boots. $40.00 later it’s was fixed. Some mechanics can and will take advantage of young or unknowing clients. You must educate yourself on all things that come your way.
I don't even own a Toyota and I love this channel. I wish I had a mechanic like him. I'm sure one exists, but they're like finding a needle in a haystack. Unfortunately the first couple mechanics on that Avalon is the norm everywhere, and people that have no mechanical aptitude or even basic car knowledge get taken to the cleaners every day.
@@mplslawnguy3389 My Mazda mechanic is just like the Car Care Nut. 21 years at Mazda and works on a car with the precision of a surgeon. Best mechanic I’ve ever known.
Ahmed, I hope you realize just how uncommon a person/technician you are. People with your level of honesty and integrity have all but disappeared.You could have taken both of these customers to the cleaners like everyone else but you are not that kind of person. May God continue to bless you my friend.
Yes.... Won't mind paying a higher price as long as they do a good job, honest and do the job correct with care like this Guy AMD! Most will only charge you more for stuff you don't need to do on the vehicle....if that they will also just take your $ and not do the job that we are being charged for.@@Jac735
This guy is the ultimate knowledge bank resource of auto repair. He is the real thing, questions everything, and calls out lazy, careless unqualified mechanics. brilliant.
Tbh, not sure why they're going anywhere else. It has an extended warranty and all maintenance/repair records were done at the same dealership they bought it at so it's all covered. At 11K miles with incompetents working on the vehicle, they just need to screech loud and long enough until they replace the car
@@ev25zvthis particular repair would have not been covered under warranty its customer induced from not driving it nothing actually failed here they need to drive the car more or let it heat up properly before shutting it down
good to see a mechanic who is honest and takes pride in his work...I was a mechanic for 30 yrs and the worst thing i ever heard fellow mechanics say was, "Good enough"...I told them to pretend it was their vehicle or their parents' vehicle and treat it like that.....if it is good enough for YOU then it is good enough for them.....take pride in your work fellow techs, it goes a LONG way
Well yes, but I disagree with “good enough for you”! My thoughts are is it perfect for your wife and kids to drive on the worst conditions I.e. heat cold, on a long trip. That’s how well it needs to be!
I work on million dollar semiconductor equipment and good enough is good enough. My company charged $350 an hour for my time, and I got $50 of that. Just enough in my area to rent an old apartment. You want exquisite work, pay for it. You want to offer pay for a 40 year old living in an 80 year old apartment full of rotting wood and bugs, don't complain when I call something "good enough." I did the perfect work for years, and what did it get me?
The reason I love your channel is because it’s like watching a mystery movie and in the end the good guy always wins. You always solve the problem meticulously and explain it so logically.
From a retired ford dealer,you are a hell of a man thanks. Greed took over and LAZY Tech could care less that a fact so Sad. CUSTOMER SHOULD BE PROTECTED. YOU CARE AND IT SHOWS.
There's been a dealer master tech exodus across many brands. They've lowered standards to get cheaper techs, paying well below acceptable rates, making impossible to achieve flat rate book times and so on. There's been a brain drain as a result and incompetent techs are becoming way more common.
You are not a normal mechanic. Everyone wants a mechanic like you. Your awesome and you know your craft. Poeple do not mind spending with that kind of mechanic. Your like family.
I dont know how honest mechanic like you stays in business. I started working on my cars, because I was blatently LIED to my face by mechanic and tried to rip me off. Never trusting another mechanic again.
Dannyj, same here. Started working on my own cars a little over 4 decades ago because 1. Couldn't afford a shop 2. The shops were screwing everyone. We're all very fortunate for the Car Care Nut experience, advice, & wisdom
honest mechanics actually make far more money in the long run. The problem is, everyone is just so helpless about vehicles they own to the extent that they go flocking to bad ones anyways because they literally have no choice nor idea. And as cars become more and more high tech, even the idea of fixing a car becomes a thing of the past. Dealer mechanics don't know how unless they're legitimate ASE master certified and 90% of the kids in the back are cheap labor wrench monkeys who are not that.
I started my own business as an automotive tech for these kinds of reasons. I do that due diligence and make sure I’m doing the right thing the first time as much as possible.
This guy obviously knows what he is talking about, BUT he spends so much time waffling around talking about things that are of NO INTEREST THAT I USUALLY JUST GIVE UP. His videos could be reduced by over 50% if he would just GET ON WITH IT.
Everytime I went to the dealer to get my Toyo serviced under warranty, I smiled like they smiled, and never trusted the work they did. Thanks, to channels like this one, I take care of my own cars myself. ❤
I friggin hate scammer mechanics. Your the shining star to this industry. These stories put a bad name on the industry and glad your here to shine light on peoples scams
My newer Hyundai kona kept loosing coolant. Hard to find and dealer was indifferent. I finally found a tank leak took in on for warranty work. After a long debate on if they would cover it, they did. Another issue they had the car a day to diagnose. Before going in, I used my own scan tool. Retrieved the dtc and knew the problem. They said it would take all day to diagnose. It took me 5 minutes. I understand they use cars like mine as schedule filler. But they lied and I mentioned I retrieved the same dtc. The service writer was caught in his lie. The 2022 kona is now sold, I'm done with Hyundai. I had a couple Hyundai before this and the cars were reliable 200,000 mile + cars. I have zero confidence in the brand or dealers now.
I own 3 Toyotas, and live in Tennessee. I have a 65" smart TV. You show up on it to watch you because I get a lot of wisdom from you. I'm not a mechanic, but You are so detailed explaining how things work that it feels like watching a documentary about mechanics. I really pray that God keeps on blessing you in your life. Thank you for not being a crook!
I wish people would get paid enough to merit this level of care. People expect the utmost professionalism and skill from a mechanic, then whine about the oil change being $100 when it's $80 across the street. Those people can take their problems and simmer in them.
Then the only businesses that would have integrity and honesty would be auto repair, and you'll still be getting ripped off by your dentists, doctors, roofers, etc.
This shows two things to me: 1. A mindset of strong deductive reasoning skills. You know your stuff and have a good BS detector. Why would a car need a new engine after 11K miles? Let's check the compression, coolant purity etc. 2. A strong moral drive to do the right thing, do your best and do it honestly. You could have easily put in a new engine and charged the customer thousands of dollars, but an honest person wouldn't do that. I salute you on both fronts.
That’s why I drive 4 hours just to get my car serviced by TCCN! I think AMD is worth it! I highly recommend his shop if you need your Toyota inspected or repaired!
I live about that same distance if I ever need more than a oil change or tire rotation I plan on going here also.Although the dealership I go to seems to have good recomendations and I have low mileage cars.
It is not just the technical skills. It is the heart, the honesty, the determination. For a trouble world tonight, it is hard to find such person. We all have a lot to learn from this guy.
Be careful with that because if you have a car that has been driven short trips especially by older people.The car is not used to being driven at high speed and distance. it's not going to turn out well.My experience is catastrophic failure.
@@aliasgertayabali5260 I've had a suburban that sat so long, that a coating of coolant goop formed on the coolant temperature sensors. I could never get it up to proper operating temps, and thus, ran rich all the time, thinking it was a cold engine. I had a good mechanic find that one for me.
Diagnosis, cylinder wash down is the cause of poor running issues. Plugs were fouled, replaced runs good now. See video at 9 minute mark. Small coolant leak at filler neck to do misaligned hose clamp. May the Lord bless you and keep you 🙏
. IT hapened to my Volvo. I had to move the car for few meters and then shut off the engine. Its called the lawnmower syndrome, more commonly known as flooding the engine due to cold start and not allowing the engine to warm up sufficiently before switching off.
I feel like I am watching a detective show but a mechanic version. I gotta say, I'm not one of the cool car ladies that knows a lot, so I am thankful for this kind of honest content that I can learn from. Thank you, sir!
Yup...In this case, second opinion didnt work either. What you want is an honest opinion. Its next to impossible to find it. One of my pet peeves right now is the P0420 diagnosis where 99.9% of mechanics out there will tell you to replace the catalytic converter. They'll throw one on there with aftermarket O2 sensors or the same old sensors and call it a day. The code nearly always comes back eventually. Usually its just the sensors, or a hole in the exhaust, or failing exhaust seals, or intake leak that are causing the problem, but its much easier and more lucrative to replace the CAT.
@@yal100 I got the same code on my 99 Lexus. Luckily I don't need to send it to environmental inspection anymore due to its age . The light goes on and off for about a year now. But I check it with a scan tool every time to make sure it's not a different code. I just leave it alone and make sure the temperature stays normal because if there's a blockage with the cat the temperature will be higher than usual I learned . Makes sense to me.
@@ericl7519 I have an 07 Accord, the light pops up every now and then and then goes out for months and then comes back. I suspect a hole or leak in the exhaust. I can here a very slight noise from the muffler and I have my eye on the flex pipe in the front also. I don't believe its the CAT because I too have checked the temp when hot and its pretty even across it. But I know a lot of people that have gotten burned with new Cats installed and its a real shame.
I was a technician for Nissan and Mazda dealer in the 80s. We were still overhauling carbs and adjusting valves. The dealership was in a cold weather climate and we would have brand new cars come into the shop after the owners would attempt to start their cars in -25 degree temperatures. The battery would be almost dead, we would have to change the oil and filter because it would be extremely contaminated with fuel, and replace the spark plugs because of fuel fouling. Good catch on troubleshooting some basics and saving your customer with unnecessary repairs.
Fuel diluted oil is still a huge issue today. People love to remote start their car, let it idle for 20 minutes, hop in and drive 6 blocks, and shut it back off while they're at work. At the end of the day, it's the same thing. It's why so many manufacturers have issues with timing chain stretch and cam phaser issues. Even engines with cylinder deactivation. Oil can't do its job very well when it's diluted down 30% by volume.
Your genuine love for cars is infectious. Your saying "this is a beautiful car" creates a feeling of respect and care towards a thing. It brings it to life regardless of its age or history and reflects the awesome engineering we are so privileged to enjoy in our everyday cars we drive. Also you truly show that good engineering is found in particular models and that the latest is not always the greatest. There is a tv show here in Australia called Muster Dogs which follows the training of cattle dogs from puppy onwards. The best master trainer always pacifies the dogs quietly saying "lovely dog lovely dog" while giving them a cuddle and soothing them. As always congratulations on your work. Thanks from Australia
Safety certification test, a mechanic told me I had a rust hole in my chassis and it required a $2000 patch job. When I checked myself, the hole was a mounting point on the frame, intentionally put in by Toyota. After rubbing off the winterizing tar from that area, it was a perfect circle without any structural defects.
You are the nemesis of all wreckless and dodgy dealers and technicians for the greater good! Your expertise is unquestionable and your presenting style is world-class, I could watch your vids for hours...You should have a mini-series on one of the large streaming plattforms, seriously.
This guy is a true professional, lots of love and dedication and never giving up on a car regardless of its age, true professional who does not go the throw out mentality.
I wish I had a mechanic like you where I live. I know you hear that all the time but you're a gem, there's not many of you guys around. Keep up the good work.👍
WOW - hard to see a shop being honest these days. I am sure the Avalon is going to look and perform like new when you are done with it. Love the passion and dedication to ALL cars that come in, not just the 600K miles Lexus!!
Love this lesson. I'm a steam plant operator engineer. I've seen so many short cuts, trainers never verify the up & coming trainees or make the trainee aware of their mistakes & so goes their careless examples & leadership. I've seen them leave mechanical pump equipment in explosion view three differing times & never reassemble the item because of their *FWA yet the "experienced" mechanic installs subpar metering chemical pumps for a below standard of the mechanical pump. This type of staff is a worthless hack of a mechanic being.Thanks for your integrity & professional candor I learned much from you. Even after reporting such misconduct of persons never once did supervisor, Whistle blower protection managers, colleagues, collaborate a round table discussions of these issues knowledgeably with persons. I now only watch my back & have distanced myself to protect me from them. *fraud, waste & abuse
Knowledge and honesty are priceless qualities. My mechanic is 30 miles from my house, regardless the distance, only him touch my 1999 Toyota Land Cruiser.
I have a 2014 Avalon and it just passed 100,000 miles. I replace the oil (pure synthetic 0W20) every 5,000 miles and perform all maintenance myself. I use all original Toyota parts. Had to do a brake job at 70,000 with new rotors all the way around. Flushed brake fluid and replaced coolant at 60,000. Will have to replace coolant again very soon. The only item that I let the dealer do is replace the transmission fluid at 60,000 miles because there is no dipstick. It’s a great car. I get good mileage and am very pleased with it. My only thing is that I do not like the low profile tires. I understand that Toyota wanted to get a younger buyer for the Avalon so they “sported it up” a bit. At 73 years old, this may be my last car. If so it’s my best car.
@@zfunk9No, if you ACTUALLY watch the video you would have realized that the car overheated because the dealership couldn't be bothered to properly secure a coolant hose clip and also likely didn't properly bleed the system. The plug fouling and misfiring are additional results of awful dealership "repairs", which started because of a replaced AC compressor. But please continue to make spurious claims based on a video you clearly didn't watch. Really helps everyone.
replacement the transmission fluid very easy. i did for my 2017 Toyota Camry and 2016 Toyota Corolla with no dipstick, how much transmission fluid drain out, i put it back the same.. i bought transmission fluid from Toyota dealership. . i replacement transmission fluid about 3 years ago and no problem at all. i replacement transmission fluid every 40.000 km ( from Australia)i take off the wheel then unbolt ( the bolt where you pour oil into transmission) i use the hose 80 cm and connect to funnel then pour oil into transmission…i do not replace the transmission filter…
Don’t know how you maintain an even- keeled demeanor, and low pressure dealing with all the customer situations. You are truly “The Car Doctor”. Thanks for sharing. God bless.
I can hear your frustration in this video. That car is still very beautiful, thanks for saving it. Regarding the rack, that’s why when you bring your car in you ask for diagnosis. You tell the shop to replace the rack you will get “customer states replace rack. Work performed: replaced rack. Technician discovered that lines need to be replaced as well”. Good on you for being honest. I wish all mechanics / techs were honest.
When he said the second opinion told the owner that the water pump fell off I couldn't believe anyone with any integrity would think someone would believe that. Then, i thought again about how many people have no idea about how cars work, and just shook my head. Love is busy, and i understand people don't have the time to understand everything, but it is a shame when others take advantage of that trust.
The bleed valve on the cooling system is super super important that you get it right.I've seen many a car shade tree.Mechanic killed the whole thing because he left too much air in the system.You my friend are a great technician love watching you
I also had a shop diagnose a bad rack and pinion, as well as one of the pressure lines. They told me to scrap my car. Turns out my power steering pump was only leaking from the bearing on the pulley. They were idiots, but in a weird way I have to thank them. They got me into doing research, and learning to do my own repair. It's not always easy or fun, but I always feel good having used my hands when the job is done.
@@martinr8278I bought a Toyota for the first time and I've never put so much money into it in my life I'll never buy another one ever again I'm going back to purchase older Chrysler vehicles again.
This is a good example of why I will send you my car for major service or any repairs from wherever I am in the country . I have homes in Florida , south Carolina , and South Dakota . I will drive or trailer or shop my car to you for the confidence I get from your incredible knowledge , abilities , stellar reputation, honesty , and caring behavior you show to your clients . Thank you
I appreciate your passion when you speak about your Toyota/Lexus engines. Your video on changing the water pump on a 2gr-fe turned the dealer quoted $2100 repair into $300 in parts and an 8hr learning experience for me on that engine. Also appreciated how you specifically pointed out all of the problem sections and just said “stick with it and you will get it” 🤣 love your content. Keep it up!
Fortunately, for me, I do my own maintenance and live 20 miles from this mechanic,My 2011 Avalon has 144,000 on the odometer and going to the east coast in May! Although I would love to meet this guy as he appears to be a very honest stand up mechanic..
I am a physician, and I amazed how similar the diagnostic process is. Take all the information, create a list of possible explanations and the proceed with work up. Important not to form preconceptions , and then make all the findings fit it, instead of keeping an open mind and if something does not fit or makes sense to follow up new leads. I am a huge fan of this channel, AMD is a true professional, and I would trust him with my car, and if he was a doctor, I would trust him with my family:)
I completely agree with your analogy. Having a research and neuroscience background I don't understand why more human science professionals don't think like us. Diagnosing is a logical sequential process. I'm always amazed that my colleagues don't understand how seriously to take diagnostics. You don't guess, go on a gut feeling, or assume. With vehicles you have a known amount of mechanical components and electrical schematics which is still quite complicated. With humans it's a bit more complicated with much more serious consequences to a misdiagnosis.
@michaeldressler8194, lol you know the saying is, fixing a car is harder than fixing a human because new multi plex computers etc new sensors new locations new bolts on ever single car. As compared to the human anatomy every organ etc is in the same location and does the same thing. No new organ etc with the new born lol food for thought.
But what about “when you hear hooves think horses not zebras”? The story the patient (car owner) tells seems to line up with blown engine, so I can see why the first shops started going down that diagnosis route. But they should have confirmed that with compression and leak down tests.
Had similar issue with overheating, lexus dealership said it was a blown head gasket, they said a trail of coolant leaking around the head gasket and down the back side engine block, mechanic offered me $500 for my car on the spot, I never believed him or them, took it to a friend who is a mechanic, turns out it was a temperature sensor positioned close to the cylinder head that was leaking , replaced a $50 temp sensor 5yrs later the car is running perfectly to this day , 2005 lexus es330 220000 miles , owned this car from day 1, needless to say I will NEVER go back to that dealership! All their lies, compression checks , pressure checks, etc. all BS
not just cars, my furnace went out and two men came over and said I have calcium deposits on the bottom of it and need a whole new furnace, it turned out to be a circulating pump my next-door neighbor helped me diagnosed. and helped me install, most people out there today are full of it, learn how to fix your own machines
Ahmed I forgot to tell you when you fixed our 2013 Toyota Prius head gasket and other things, that the dealer also gave me the option to replace the motor with a remanufactured motor. I’m so glad you did the work on ours, it runs like brand new with 195,000 miles. Thank you for your integrity, and God Bless you brother.
Mr AMD is such beloved person my Toyota Camry 2011 se have steering problem which the steering fluid hose leak what I got I took it to the mechanic and said something like u need to replace the suspension and rotor and as well the the radbering I kinda came home and dedicated to myself to never go to mechanic for car repair! And those who live beside this great man should be proud not to forget because they’re god bless as well. Thank u [Mr MD] for you honesty and knowledge 🙏
I truly enjoy your videos. This one is especially poignant. I drive a 19 year old Lexus and I love the car. A recent issue with exhaust fumes in the cabin made the car almost unusable. I took it to the dealer, and after much cajoling, they could not figure out the problem. I took it to four other repair shops and they also could not diagnose the problem. I lived with this issue for about one year. I saw a UA-cam video wherein a lady with an SUV had the same problem. That astute mechanic found her problem to be a leaking rear hatch seal. I then, about two weeks ago, took my car to a body shop. The owner, a Lexus fan, took one look at the car and figured the problem out! It was the quarter duct vents that MANY of these cars have in the lower trunk area. The rubber flap was disintegrated allowing exhaust fumes into the car. Two snap-in vents $75 dollars from Lexus. Car is just like new. What I found interesting is that most mechanics I talked to didn't even know these things exist.... They allow for pressure release within the car interior when a door or trunk is closed.
I think the distinction to be made here is between a real mechanic like who found your problem and a parts fitter, which most guys working in dealerships are. “If we can’t find a part to switch we can’t find the problem….we certainly don’t “fix”things”
@@Paul-cl6uoYes, another issue I found was that if the problem doesn't throw a code on their computer scan tool, the problem doesn't exist! Sniffers and scan tools cannot diagnosis this kind of an issue. It takes someone with knowledge............
There is reason why AMD shop is so busy, this video proves that. Unfortunately, today’s shops( including some dealerships) are not trustworthy. Thanks for another great video.
I actually have an excellent independent shop near me (NW Houston) that operates just as TCCN in the Chicago area and the SMA in upstate NY. Been doing business with them for more than 30 years. There are still a few good shops out there. You just have to look.
Lots of rushing and not caring in many industries. Im a retired high voltage lineman 40 years and took pride in my work. 71 now and enjoy fixing automobiles. Always learning from your expertise and skills
You sir are the best mechanic. Humble attitude. I love your attention to following up with each problem. You ask questions. Great problem solver. You are looking for what is best for your customer. I enjoy wrenching on my own cars. Your approach to working on cars is inspirational. Good job. Thank you for sharing your thought process.
Thank you for modeling how a person of integrity should behave. Love your channel and your commitment to finding the root cause of the problems presented to be fixed.
Ahmed, it is a pleasure to hear a real professional. My comment is going to be lost among another thousands of the same kind, but I can’t move on without expressing my admiration of your knowledge, professional expertise, openness of your mind, great work ethic, and so on… Besides you look and talk like one of my far cousins, who lives far away 😊 So, when i watch you, I’m feeling like meeting him…
I have been watching your channel for so long because of your passion about Toyota vehicles… but your honesty and dedication to your job as a mechanic is so amazing.. you are one in a million…
Great video, This flat rate and "I don't care" attitude is ruining the service department at dealerships. Any career path you choose you need to strive to be the best at it
This is a reflection of society…it starts at home. Not all but a huge percentage of 20 somethings don’t care. It’s the reason why companies are having trouble filling jobs….why the US military is having to lower their standards to keep service members.
You have to work for yourself or start a business. Scrubs are not paid enough to care. When a repair takes a mechanic 20 minutes to fix and the shop bills it at book hours and doesn't pay their mechanic book hours, he's probably not going to care.
What a refreshing change. I'm from the UK and I have personally been ripped off by garages three times. Once by a friend he did a rebuild on my old Astra and he refused to correct the damage. Plus two other garages one a main dealer. With regards to you and your dealership by all of the videos I have seen. I can tell you really care about doing a good honest day's work repairing cars. And you care about your customers. First class impression of your business. Your videos are also really informative 👏 👍.
Pine Hollow Diagnostics is another great channel. His focus is usually electrical problems and he follows a similar style TCCN. Both channels are treasures.
I wish there were more honest auto repair shops such as yours. Dealers always gouge you, they have high overhead, brand new facility. Keep putting out your videos. It gives us ammo on what to look for or listen what we are being told that it needs un-necessary work. Thanks for your videos.
11,000 miles in ten years? That in itself is a crime. A beautiful car like that needs to be free and drive and drive for miles and miles and miles and miles and miles and miles and miles. Oops, 😬 sorry. They did take it to an actual Toyota Dealership right? A new engine? This beautiful car is barely broken in on mileage and having a dealership misdiagnosis their own car should never fall upon the user. Toyota Dealerships should know this car backwards and forwards and all this frustration should not be happening. Glad, they finally brought it to your attention and the car got the proper diagnosis. ❤
With so few miles driven by the owner, it's abundantly obvious that this car is not needed in their household. Why pay insurance, registration, etc on a car that is driven so infrequently? Fix it, sell it, move on.
@@Paul-cl6uo Lol. I know a person with 30 cars and a 20,000 sqft home and there's only 3 people living there. Lol at thinking someone lacks sense if someone can afford something you can't and actually buys it
The clue was the high oil level but NOT milky looking. Not water, in other words it was fuel diluting the oil. NOTHING at all amiss with the engine except very unusual operator "errors". Change the oil, plugs and chat with the owner about bring it up to temp and DRIVING it for a bit! But the water in the headliner there? That's doomsday if you don't get that fixed!
I wish you were here In Maryland. We have the some of the worst dealerships for service. One of them told me that I needed an alternator for $ 2,400 . No signs of a failing alternator. Here we are two years later, no problems.
Sir, I loved watching you. My 2008 Tundra 5.7L stop starting , NO CRANK, NO TURN, NO START. Put new battery, checked all fuses and relay are good, dashboard lighted up when turn and now got error codes, P.0335, P340, P0345, P0365, P0390.
you have no idea how many of us wish we lived close enough to take our car to you.....
Seriously, he would have a line out the door and a backup for at least a year. Work will be non-stop until he retires. And even then I'd track him down lol
i live 20 mins away... am i lucky??
Yeah man, I've thought this tons of times
@@essam8613if you own a Toyota, Lexus, or a Scion, yes.
@@essam8613Hell yes!!!
This is like watching an unusually skilled doctor treat patients that were told their case was a lost cause. I love it!
@@Mathilda2zeromy thoughts exactly 😂
Part doctor, part detective in this case.
Sherlock Holmes.
... same
It's 80/20 in every profession of mediocre vs good.
As a retired auto tech of almost 40 years, I am so impressed with both your knowledge and your attitude. This industry needs thousands of techs like you.
I retired in 2002. Have never heard any bad advice here. excellent teacher.
How to reach this person/organization?😊
This guy is so awesome. What a blessing to the world
When you love your job and it’s your passion, it’s love, not work
This engine is the same one used by Toyota racing team. It’s very good
I'm betting the dealer lied to get them a low ball trade in, so they could fix it, and have a low mileage used car to sell for a premium.
Definitely could be the case.
Very likely as it's a 10 year old car and the owners are rich, even our medical system works like that - everything is designed to make maximum profit off treatments that patients actually don't need
I think you are spot on.
100% agree. Dealers do it. Even privately owned shops will do this and either resell, give to a family member/friend or keep themselves.
@@Komputaryou know they’re “rich”?
As an experienced Orthopedic Surgeon , I see patients for second opinion and often times can treat the patient without performing some complex surgery that was recommended by previous doctor!!! Always get second opinions for your car and your body parts!
My ankle is very weak after working and I sit for like 10 minutes and I get back up and I feel very weak I had surgery year and 3 months ago
There's a reason it's called a "practice."
@@RLShubYou should get a second opinion about that!
That principal comes with nearly every field. I am a QA engineer and the devs love my bugs for one reason. I research thoroughly before I open that bug. 9 times out of 10 when something doesn't work right, it's an environment issue, or misconfiguration. The environment is complex without the software I test and knowing it is the difference between finding meaningful issues and wasting my time and that of others.
I honestly feel lucky that the only good Honda dealership in the entire province is within hour distance. Here in Ontario Canada Maple Honda and Maple Acura is the most honest. Ive been to almost every honda dealership in the GTA they are the only good ones.
Reminds me of when a Honda tech told me I needed a new engine and then wouldn't give me the keys when I wished to get a second opinion. He told me the car would explode if I were to try and start it. He gave me they keys when I started to call the police. My car started just fine and all it needed was a new radiator cap.
Yeah, another example of crooked mechanics who try all kinds of dirty tricks. Take 2 keys with you when you go to any mechanic. Decades ago a crooked mechanic put my car up on the lift, pulled all the wheels off, then quoted me a ridiculously high brake repair job, & he didn't want to lower the car until I agreed to pay his extortionist price.
Terrible. And amazing 😊
Here's another example of a crooked mechanic. At an independent shop the manager told me the price to have a specific repair done. I agreed, then repairs were done. When I went to pick up my car the shop owner, who was the dad of the manager, presented me with a bill that was about $100 higher than what his son & I had agreed to. The dad told me that he was charging me the higher amount because he decided that he wasn't making enough profit at the lower price his son had told me. Of course I told him that he had no legal right to do that to me. He told me that I could sue him, but that he was not gonna let me take my car until I paid the price he demanded. I paid it because I needed my car then. This example was not even the worst example of a crooked mechanic ripping me off. A crooked independent mechanic told me that he could get used engines that were in very good condition & he told me the price was very reasonable. After he installed the engine I paid for the engine & labor. Unfortunately it soon began to run badly. The mechanic refused to do anything. A different mechanic told me the engine was in bad condition & it wasn't worth spending a lot more money on it. I demanded that the original mechanic install a used engine that was in very good condition, like he had originally represented to me. He refused. He refused to do anything. The issue wasn't worth me suing the crooked mechanic. If I had sued him in small claims court I have no doubt that he would have lied to the judge & said that the engine was in very good running condition when I got the car back from the installation. In both cases I have mentioned, I had no idea at the beginning that I was dealing with crooks. The lesson I learned was to only use mechanics who friends told me they had found were honest. The examples I described were before the Internet era, thus there was no place I could find customer reviews.
@@LoneTinaja Yes, also had that happen to me. Car up / no wheels. Talking about rust and need of new car.. bla bkla bkla.
I was in light shock... But then my working companion told them in a harsh voice... Get the wheels on and lower the car. They did that. Nothing was wrong with that old Toyota Corolla.
Dang, you guys need to find a honest mechanic. My mechanic, we're somewhat friends. I'm currently unemployed, so he did my oil change, $80, for free. Told me to pay him whenever I find a job.
Those people are now lifetime customers and the word-of-mouth advertising you will get is priceless. That warm feeling of helping people is priceless too.
I think he already has a lot of those customers. He may need a bigger shop and more employees in the future.
Hope employees are just like him
I'm just pissed that he isn't around here. This man is a jewel. A one of a kind jewel!
Not just because of his technical expertise. Not just because of his determination to get it right. But mostly because of his efforts to do right by his customer.
If his shop was withn 100 miles of me, I'd buy a Lexus (already have a Toyota) today and take it to him for everything. And, always feel confident that he was doing right by me.
That's key. You may not get him actually working on your car.@@PeterHernandez-lg2eh
@@tharaisAND he shares that knowledge with the world for free.
This guys the king of getting me to listen to a 30 minute rant about Toyotas for no reason
My girlfriend’s son’s 2005 Suburu was diagnosed with bad steering rack. So got my tools and new rack and drove to fix it in a grass parking lot. There was nothing wrong with it but torn boots. $40.00 later it’s was fixed. Some mechanics can and will take advantage of young or unknowing clients. You must educate yourself on all things that come your way.
I don't even own a Toyota and I love this channel. I wish I had a mechanic like him. I'm sure one exists, but they're like finding a needle in a haystack. Unfortunately the first couple mechanics on that Avalon is the norm everywhere, and people that have no mechanical aptitude or even basic car knowledge get taken to the cleaners every day.
@@mplslawnguy3389 My Mazda mechanic is just like the Car Care Nut. 21 years at Mazda and works on a car with the precision of a surgeon. Best mechanic I’ve ever known.
There is a reason to listen to AMD.. to educate yourself
What do you mean for no reason? Did he not justify his points?
The sheer talent to make UNCUT videos explaining all of these is phenomenal.
Absolutely true!
he is literally in the ZONE. Pure love and knowledge of his skill area.
AMD indeed has been blessed with the wonderful gift of communication. To say nothing of technical expertise.
Well, if you watch closely, there are editing breaks. But who cares.
Ahmed, I hope you realize just how uncommon a person/technician you are. People with your level of honesty and integrity have all but disappeared.You could have taken both of these customers to the cleaners like everyone else but you are not that kind of person. May God continue to bless you my friend.
This is one of the best and honest Mechanic left in this world!!
I drive an hour to get my car fixed 2 mechanics one shop is 1 town away from the other one but they are worth it even though they are expensive
Yes.... Won't mind paying a higher price as long as they do a good job, honest and do the job correct with care like this Guy AMD! Most will only charge you more for stuff you don't need to do on the vehicle....if that they will also just take your $ and not do the job that we are being charged for.@@Jac735
There are hundreds of millions of them.
@@motleydude73Bad mechanic's? Yeah I agree
This guy is the ultimate knowledge bank resource of auto repair. He is the real thing, questions everything, and calls out lazy, careless unqualified mechanics. brilliant.
If not biased toward Toyota
There are way more of "this guy" out there. But they do not work for a dealership and not on cars that are "under warranty insurance".
The Toyota dealership should be eating every penny of that repair. Disgusting.
Dealer is the most aggressive about money,anyway,they make more money.
Tbh, not sure why they're going anywhere else. It has an extended warranty and all maintenance/repair records were done at the same dealership they bought it at so it's all covered. At 11K miles with incompetents working on the vehicle, they just need to screech loud and long enough until they replace the car
@@ev25zvWith mechanics that bad, it's time to look for a good lawyer to fix the problem.
@@aluisiousVery few lawyers can fix a car properly.
@@ev25zvthis particular repair would have not been covered under warranty its customer induced from not driving it nothing actually failed here they need to drive the car more or let it heat up properly before shutting it down
good to see a mechanic who is honest and takes pride in his work...I was a mechanic for 30 yrs and the worst thing i ever heard fellow mechanics say was, "Good enough"...I told them to pretend it was their vehicle or their parents' vehicle and treat it like that.....if it is good enough for YOU then it is good enough for them.....take pride in your work fellow techs, it goes a LONG way
Well yes, but I disagree with “good enough for you”!
My thoughts are is it perfect for your wife and kids to drive on the worst conditions I.e. heat cold, on a long trip.
That’s how well it needs to be!
Yessssss perioddd
I work on million dollar semiconductor equipment and good enough is good enough. My company charged $350 an hour for my time, and I got $50 of that. Just enough in my area to rent an old apartment.
You want exquisite work, pay for it. You want to offer pay for a 40 year old living in an 80 year old apartment full of rotting wood and bugs, don't complain when I call something "good enough." I did the perfect work for years, and what did it get me?
Yes! Im 24, with 4 years experience and I am committed to staying professional and doing things the right way!
How about can slap that in 😮
I wish all mechanics were dedicated and sincere as this gentleman.
The reason I love your channel is because it’s like watching a mystery movie and in the end the good guy always wins. You always solve the problem meticulously and explain it so logically.
You've been overhauled by the car care nut!
So true !!
I also think same it has twist and good explanation
From a retired ford dealer,you are a hell of a man thanks. Greed took over and LAZY
Tech could care less that a fact so Sad. CUSTOMER SHOULD BE PROTECTED. YOU CARE AND IT SHOWS.
The guy selling the car makes way more than the guy repairing it
This is our economic system. Why do you think their job is to make things good for you? Their only purpose is to make as much money as possible
There's been a dealer master tech exodus across many brands. They've lowered standards to get cheaper techs, paying well below acceptable rates, making impossible to achieve flat rate book times and so on. There's been a brain drain as a result and incompetent techs are becoming way more common.
@@caleb7674 lazy techs are just acting their wage
"Couldn't care less"
You are not a normal mechanic. Everyone wants a mechanic like you. Your awesome and you know your craft. Poeple do not mind spending with that kind of mechanic. Your like family.
Yes, he asks the WHY questions!
I dont know how honest mechanic like you stays in business. I started working on my cars, because I was blatently LIED to my face by mechanic and tried to rip me off. Never trusting another mechanic again.
Dannyj, same here. Started working on my own cars a little over 4 decades ago because 1. Couldn't afford a shop 2. The shops were screwing everyone. We're all very fortunate for the Car Care Nut experience, advice, & wisdom
people like us should just keep supporting them
What?@@rayoflight39
That's because you need to find an honest shop and support them
honest mechanics actually make far more money in the long run. The problem is, everyone is just so helpless about vehicles they own to the extent that they go flocking to bad ones anyways because they literally have no choice nor idea. And as cars become more and more high tech, even the idea of fixing a car becomes a thing of the past. Dealer mechanics don't know how unless they're legitimate ASE master certified and 90% of the kids in the back are cheap labor wrench monkeys who are not that.
I started my own business as an automotive tech for these kinds of reasons. I do that due diligence and make sure I’m doing the right thing the first time as much as possible.
This guy obviously knows what he is talking about, BUT he spends so much time waffling around talking about things that are of NO INTEREST THAT I USUALLY JUST GIVE UP.
His videos could be reduced by over 50% if he would just GET ON WITH IT.
@oldedwardian1778 Skill issue
Everytime I went to the dealer to get my Toyo serviced under warranty, I smiled like they smiled, and never trusted the work they did. Thanks, to channels like this one, I take care of my own cars myself. ❤
I friggin hate scammer mechanics. Your the shining star to this industry. These stories put a bad name on the industry and glad your here to shine light on peoples scams
We need to increase prison sentences for business fraud. It's getting out of control
There’s so many. I asked a guy to install my fender and bumper he said he would for 1500 no paint and 3000 painted. I got my buddy to do it for free
Scammer mechanics are the majority...
I would say more are just plain incompetent and don't admit to their mistakes.
Ford stealerships are the worst.
I would accurately describe this guy as a forensic automotive diagnostistian. He looks beyond what things appear wrong.
No, he's just a good mechanic. That's what people who fix things should be doing.
Half of the engine bay is splattered with coolant - it's not rocket science. Gets a lot of views though, this stuff.
My newer Hyundai kona kept loosing coolant. Hard to find and dealer was indifferent. I finally found a tank leak took in on for warranty work. After a long debate on if they would cover it, they did. Another issue they had the car a day to diagnose. Before going in, I used my own scan tool. Retrieved the dtc and knew the problem. They said it would take all day to diagnose. It took me 5 minutes. I understand they use cars like mine as schedule filler. But they lied and I mentioned I retrieved the same dtc. The service writer was caught in his lie. The 2022 kona is now sold, I'm done with Hyundai. I had a couple Hyundai before this and the cars were reliable 200,000 mile + cars. I have zero confidence in the brand or dealers now.
Very well said !
I own 3 Toyotas, and live in Tennessee. I have a 65" smart TV. You show up on it to watch you because I get a lot of wisdom from you. I'm not a mechanic, but You are so detailed explaining how things work that it feels like watching a documentary about mechanics. I really pray that God keeps on blessing you in your life. Thank you for not being a crook!
This dude flexing 65" TV lmao
I wish every mechanic had your work ethics, man. If you were in my area, you'd have a customer for life.
I wish people would get paid enough to merit this level of care.
People expect the utmost professionalism and skill from a mechanic, then whine about the oil change being $100 when it's $80 across the street. Those people can take their problems and simmer in them.
@@aluisious $100 for an oil change? I'm glad I change my own.
@@johng.7560- $100 + here for full synthetic here in NJ
If all shop owners and technicians had your dedication to integrity and honesty the world would be a better place. Keep up the great work.
Then the only businesses that would have integrity and honesty would be auto repair, and you'll still be getting ripped off by your dentists, doctors, roofers, etc.
This kinda goes for ALL business.
You’re an honest human kind God bless you. I wish I knew a mechanic like you where I live.
This shows two things to me:
1. A mindset of strong deductive reasoning skills. You know your stuff and have a good BS detector. Why would a car need a new engine after 11K miles? Let's check the compression, coolant purity etc.
2. A strong moral drive to do the right thing, do your best and do it honestly. You could have easily put in a new engine and charged the customer thousands of dollars, but an honest person wouldn't do that.
I salute you on both fronts.
Hyundai is your answer, seen plenty at the dealer with less that was needed and transmissions.
Buy a honda...used...drive it...fix it yourself...
That’s why I drive 4 hours just to get my car serviced by TCCN! I think AMD is worth it! I highly recommend his shop if you need your Toyota inspected or repaired!
What do the acronyms TCCN and AMD refer to? Thx
@@leefarmer8495 TCCN = The Car Care Nut
Which state Mr AMD located again?
I live about that same distance if I ever need more than a oil change or tire rotation I plan on going here also.Although the dealership I go to seems to have good recomendations and I have low mileage cars.
@@verynickIllinois.
It is not just the technical skills. It is the heart, the honesty, the determination. For a trouble world tonight, it is hard to find such person. We all have a lot to learn from this guy.
Ahmad, you are truly a hero saving us Toyota owners from ourselves. This car needs a monthly Italian tuneup. Congrats on over 1 million subs!
*Ha!, ha! Every car needs an Italian Tuneup once in a while. Cheers!*
Be careful with that because if you have a car that has been driven short trips especially by older people.The car is not used to being driven at high speed and distance. it's not going to turn out well.My experience is catastrophic failure.
@@aliasgertayabali5260 I've had a suburban that sat so long, that a coating of coolant goop formed on the coolant temperature sensors. I could never get it up to proper operating temps, and thus, ran rich all the time, thinking it was a cold engine. I had a good mechanic find that one for me.
Diagnosis, cylinder wash down is the cause of poor running issues. Plugs were fouled, replaced runs good now. See video at 9 minute mark. Small coolant leak at filler neck to do misaligned hose clamp. May the Lord bless you and keep you 🙏
I would like to know why the AC compressor needed to be replaced after just 11k miles.
. IT hapened to my Volvo. I had to move the car for few meters and then shut off the engine. Its called the lawnmower syndrome, more commonly known as flooding the engine due to cold start and not allowing the engine to warm up sufficiently before switching off.
@@karlschauff7989car is also 10-11 years old. Mileage isn't everything.
@@karlschauff7989 Probably a clutch coil went bad. It happens.
@@karlschauff7989 because it is a great car and a reliable car! didn't you watch the video?
I feel like I am watching a detective show but a mechanic version. I gotta say, I'm not one of the cool car ladies that knows a lot, so I am thankful for this kind of honest content that I can learn from. Thank you, sir!
I'm glad they got a THIRD opinion! 😮
Yup...In this case, second opinion didnt work either. What you want is an honest opinion. Its next to impossible to find it.
One of my pet peeves right now is the P0420 diagnosis where 99.9% of mechanics out there will tell you to replace the catalytic converter. They'll throw one on there with aftermarket O2 sensors or the same old sensors and call it a day. The code nearly always comes back eventually. Usually its just the sensors, or a hole in the exhaust, or failing exhaust seals, or intake leak that are causing the problem, but its much easier and more lucrative to replace the CAT.
@@yal100 I got the same code on my 99 Lexus. Luckily I don't need to send it to environmental inspection anymore due to its age . The light goes on and off for about a year now. But I check it with a scan tool every time to make sure it's not a different code. I just leave it alone and make sure the temperature stays normal because if there's a blockage with the cat the temperature will be higher than usual I learned . Makes sense to me.
Good thing the owner knew about the brand being reliable.
@@ericl7519 I have an 07 Accord, the light pops up every now and then and then goes out for months and then comes back. I suspect a hole or leak in the exhaust. I can here a very slight noise from the muffler and I have my eye on the flex pipe in the front also. I don't believe its the CAT because I too have checked the temp when hot and its pretty even across it. But I know a lot of people that have gotten burned with new Cats installed and its a real shame.
I was a technician for Nissan and Mazda dealer in the 80s. We were still overhauling carbs and adjusting valves. The dealership was in a cold weather climate and we would have brand new cars come into the shop after the owners would attempt to start their cars in -25 degree temperatures. The battery would be almost dead, we would have to change the oil and filter because it would be extremely contaminated with fuel, and replace the spark plugs because of fuel fouling. Good catch on troubleshooting some basics and saving your customer with unnecessary repairs.
Fuel diluted oil is still a huge issue today. People love to remote start their car, let it idle for 20 minutes, hop in and drive 6 blocks, and shut it back off while they're at work. At the end of the day, it's the same thing. It's why so many manufacturers have issues with timing chain stretch and cam phaser issues. Even engines with cylinder deactivation. Oil can't do its job very well when it's diluted down 30% by volume.
Your genuine love for cars is infectious. Your saying "this is a beautiful car" creates a feeling of respect and care towards a thing. It brings it to life regardless of its age or history and reflects the awesome engineering we are so privileged to enjoy in our everyday cars we drive. Also you truly show that good engineering is found in particular models and that the latest is not always the greatest. There is a tv show here in Australia called Muster Dogs which follows the training of cattle dogs from puppy onwards. The best master trainer always pacifies the dogs quietly saying "lovely dog lovely dog" while giving them a cuddle and soothing them. As always congratulations on your work. Thanks from Australia
Safety certification test, a mechanic told me I had a rust hole in my chassis and it required a $2000 patch job. When I checked myself, the hole was a mounting point on the frame, intentionally put in by Toyota. After rubbing off the winterizing tar from that area, it was a perfect circle without any structural defects.
So you didn't get the patch job? Even after "the mechanic" told you about the rust hole? Wow, talk about living fast and loose.
Haha, "the engine is here, it has not escaped, which is good"
Absolutely love the sense of humor during your shows. Mechanics made fun 😊
it was the water pump!earlier shop said it'd 'fallen-off'
*YEP!*
But horns nearly got away.
I love your commitment to craftsmanship
You are the nemesis of all wreckless and dodgy dealers and technicians for the greater good! Your expertise is unquestionable and your presenting style is world-class, I could watch your vids for hours...You should have a mini-series on one of the large streaming plattforms, seriously.
This guy is a true professional, lots of love and dedication and never giving up on a car regardless of its age, true professional who does not go the throw out mentality.
I wish I had a mechanic like you where I live. I know you hear that all the time but you're a gem, there's not many of you guys around. Keep up the good work.👍
I would gladly pay more for an honest, fair, diagnosis and repair. The trust is worth its weight in gold. God bless you.
I really like the approach: more time detecting, diagnosing and less time just changing parts
You are the exception to the rule in the realm of mechanics! I have known a few mechanics on your level and you guys are amazing
WOW - hard to see a shop being honest these days. I am sure the Avalon is going to look and perform like new when you are done with it. Love the passion and dedication to ALL cars that come in, not just the 600K miles Lexus!!
Love this lesson. I'm a steam plant operator engineer. I've seen so many short cuts, trainers never verify the up & coming trainees or make the trainee aware of their mistakes & so goes their careless examples & leadership. I've seen them leave mechanical pump equipment in explosion view three differing times & never reassemble the item because of their *FWA yet the "experienced" mechanic installs subpar metering chemical pumps for a below standard of the mechanical pump. This type of staff is a worthless hack of a mechanic being.Thanks for your integrity & professional candor I learned much from you.
Even after reporting such misconduct of persons never once did supervisor, Whistle blower protection managers, colleagues, collaborate a round table discussions of these issues knowledgeably with persons. I now only watch my back & have distanced myself to protect me from them.
*fraud, waste & abuse
Knowledge and honesty are priceless qualities. My mechanic is 30 miles from my house, regardless the distance, only him touch my 1999 Toyota Land Cruiser.
I have a 2014 Avalon and it just passed 100,000 miles. I replace the oil (pure synthetic 0W20) every 5,000 miles and perform all maintenance myself. I use all original Toyota parts. Had to do a brake job at 70,000 with new rotors all the way around. Flushed brake fluid and replaced coolant at 60,000. Will have to replace coolant again very soon. The only item that I let the dealer do is replace the transmission fluid at 60,000 miles because there is no dipstick. It’s a great car. I get good mileage and am very pleased with it. My only thing is that I do not like the low profile tires. I understand that Toyota wanted to get a younger buyer for the Avalon so they “sported it up” a bit. At 73 years old, this may be my last car. If so it’s my best car.
Well if you watch this video, these cars overheat for no reason, misfire for no reason, foul plugs for no reason. Very problematic.
@@zfunk9No, if you ACTUALLY watch the video you would have realized that the car overheated because the dealership couldn't be bothered to properly secure a coolant hose clip and also likely didn't properly bleed the system.
The plug fouling and misfiring are additional results of awful dealership "repairs", which started because of a replaced AC compressor. But please continue to make spurious claims based on a video you clearly didn't watch. Really helps everyone.
@zfunk9
Are you always this dumb? You should try to think before you speak
I do as you do with my 2013 Prius, pure synthetic 0w20 every 5000, coolant etc.....
replacement the transmission fluid very easy. i did for my 2017 Toyota Camry and 2016 Toyota Corolla with no dipstick, how much transmission fluid drain out, i put it back the same.. i bought transmission fluid from Toyota dealership. . i replacement transmission fluid about 3 years ago and no problem at all. i replacement transmission fluid every 40.000 km ( from Australia)i take off the wheel then unbolt ( the bolt where you pour oil into transmission) i use the hose 80 cm and connect to funnel then pour oil into transmission…i do not replace the transmission filter…
Don’t know how you maintain an even- keeled demeanor, and low pressure dealing with all the customer situations. You are truly “The Car Doctor”. Thanks for sharing. God bless.
I can hear your frustration in this video. That car is still very beautiful, thanks for saving it.
Regarding the rack, that’s why when you bring your car in you ask for diagnosis. You tell the shop to replace the rack you will get “customer states replace rack. Work performed: replaced rack. Technician discovered that lines need to be replaced as well”.
Good on you for being honest. I wish all mechanics / techs were honest.
When he said the second opinion told the owner that the water pump fell off I couldn't believe anyone with any integrity would think someone would believe that. Then, i thought again about how many people have no idea about how cars work, and just shook my head. Love is busy, and i understand people don't have the time to understand everything, but it is a shame when others take advantage of that trust.
Water pump fall off? Lol😂 I never seen one fall off, seizes yes, leaks yes, even belt snaps yes, but fall off?
Tell you what I question EVERYTHING that doesn't make a licka sense. Water pumps do not just FALL OFF!
The water pump fell off... I'm only surprised these clowns didn't tell the owner it needs new engine due to a serious lack of "blinker fluid".🙄
The bleed valve on the cooling system is super super important that you get it right.I've seen many a car shade tree.Mechanic killed the whole thing because he left too much air in the system.You my friend are a great technician love watching you
I also had a shop diagnose a bad rack and pinion, as well as one of the pressure lines. They told me to scrap my car. Turns out my power steering pump was only leaking from the bearing on the pulley. They were idiots, but in a weird way I have to thank them. They got me into doing research, and learning to do my own repair. It's not always easy or fun, but I always feel good having used my hands when the job is done.
The passion of this man for Toyota it's amazing. And justifed . Japanese engineering at it's best.
Gone down in quality and recalls coming in a lot. Looks like those days are ending for Toyota
Japanese engineering isn't the greatest
@@martinr8278I bought a Toyota for the first time and I've never put so much money into it in my life I'll never buy another one ever again I'm going back to purchase older Chrysler vehicles again.
@martinr8278 Obviously, all car brands have problems. That doesn't mean statistically it's still one of the best.
Honda is still #1
This is a good example of why I will send you my car for major service or any repairs from wherever I am in the country . I have homes in Florida , south Carolina , and South Dakota . I will drive or trailer or shop my car to you for the confidence I get from your incredible knowledge , abilities , stellar reputation, honesty , and caring behavior you show to your clients . Thank you
I appreciate your passion when you speak about your Toyota/Lexus engines. Your video on changing the water pump on a 2gr-fe turned the dealer quoted $2100 repair into $300 in parts and an 8hr learning experience for me on that engine. Also appreciated how you specifically pointed out all of the problem sections and just said “stick with it and you will get it” 🤣 love your content. Keep it up!
Fortunately, for me, I do my own maintenance and live 20 miles from this mechanic,My 2011 Avalon has 144,000 on the odometer and going to the east coast in May! Although I would love to meet this guy as he appears to be a very honest stand up mechanic..
Every city/town needs a mechanic like you!
The mechanic that actually love and care about his customers! May God keep you and protect you!
A toyota dealership screwed it up, When they replace the compressor they Screwed it up.
Thank you for making this video because less and less people have a good understanding of how vehicles work. Your advice is priceless!
I am a physician, and I amazed how similar the diagnostic process is. Take all the information, create a list of possible explanations and the proceed with work up. Important not to form preconceptions , and then make all the findings fit it, instead of keeping an open mind and if something does not fit or makes sense to follow up new leads.
I am a huge fan of this channel, AMD is a true professional, and I would trust him with my car, and if he was a doctor, I would trust him with my family:)
I completely agree with your analogy. Having a research and neuroscience background I don't understand why more human science professionals don't think like us. Diagnosing is a logical sequential process. I'm always amazed that my colleagues don't understand how seriously to take diagnostics. You don't guess, go on a gut feeling, or assume. With vehicles you have a known amount of mechanical components and electrical schematics which is still quite complicated. With humans it's a bit more complicated with much more serious consequences to a misdiagnosis.
Test, don't guess, and for that matter this is not a second opinion it's a third one.
That's funny yeah I do the same as an eye doc. Good catch
@michaeldressler8194, lol you know the saying is, fixing a car is harder than fixing a human because new multi plex computers etc new sensors new locations new bolts on ever single car. As compared to the human anatomy every organ etc is in the same location and does the same thing. No new organ etc with the new born lol food for thought.
But what about “when you hear hooves think horses not zebras”? The story the patient (car owner) tells seems to line up with blown engine, so I can see why the first shops started going down that diagnosis route. But they should have confirmed that with compression and leak down tests.
We need more experts like you. Thank you for being so informative.
Had similar issue with overheating, lexus dealership said it was a blown head gasket, they said a trail of coolant leaking around the head gasket and down the back side engine block, mechanic offered me $500 for my car on the spot, I never believed him or them, took it to a friend who is a mechanic, turns out it was a temperature sensor positioned close to the cylinder head that was leaking , replaced a $50 temp sensor 5yrs later the car is running perfectly to this day , 2005 lexus es330 220000 miles , owned this car from day 1, needless to say I will NEVER go back to that dealership! All their lies, compression checks , pressure checks, etc. all BS
What an evil mechanic. He knew it too.
An instant cash offer for a car that is supposed "bad" There's a red flag if I ever saw one. Glad you did't fall for that one as prob many have.
not just cars, my furnace went out and two men came over and said I have calcium deposits on the bottom of it and need a whole new furnace, it turned out to be a circulating pump my next-door neighbor helped me diagnosed. and helped me install, most people out there today are full of it, learn how to fix your own machines
A lawyer a mechanic and a car salesman walks into a bar …
@@lstruggy And convinced your wife she should divorce you now since she'll qualify for life time alimony. American waaahmen are evil too.
Ahmed I forgot to tell you when you fixed our 2013 Toyota Prius head gasket and other things, that the dealer also gave me the option to replace the motor with a remanufactured motor. I’m so glad you did the work on ours, it runs like brand new with 195,000 miles. Thank you for your integrity, and God Bless you brother.
Mr AMD is such beloved person my Toyota Camry 2011 se have steering problem which the steering fluid hose leak what I got I took it to the mechanic and said something like u need to replace the suspension and rotor and as well the the radbering I kinda came home and dedicated to myself to never go to mechanic for car repair! And those who live beside this great man should be proud not to forget because they’re god bless as well. Thank u [Mr MD] for you honesty and knowledge 🙏
I truly enjoy your videos. This one is especially poignant. I drive a 19 year old Lexus and I love the car. A recent issue with exhaust fumes in the cabin made the car almost unusable. I took it to the dealer, and after much cajoling, they could not figure out the problem. I took it to four other repair shops and they also could not diagnose the problem. I lived with this issue for about one year. I saw a UA-cam video wherein a lady with an SUV had the same problem. That astute mechanic found her problem to be a leaking rear hatch seal. I then, about two weeks ago, took my car to a body shop. The owner, a Lexus fan, took one look at the car and figured the problem out! It was the quarter duct vents that MANY of these cars have in the lower trunk area. The rubber flap was disintegrated allowing exhaust fumes into the car. Two snap-in vents $75 dollars from Lexus. Car is just like new.
What I found interesting is that most mechanics I talked to didn't even know these things exist....
They allow for pressure release within the car interior when a door or trunk is closed.
I think the distinction to be made here is between a real mechanic like who found your problem and a parts fitter, which most guys working in dealerships are. “If we can’t find a part to switch we can’t find the problem….we certainly don’t “fix”things”
@@Paul-cl6uoYes, another issue I found was that if the problem doesn't throw a code on their computer scan tool, the problem doesn't exist! Sniffers and scan tools cannot diagnosis this kind of an issue. It takes someone with knowledge............
There is reason why AMD shop is so busy, this video proves that. Unfortunately, today’s shops( including some dealerships) are not trustworthy.
Thanks for another great video.
"Some" 😂
This guy is the only trusty mechanic in the whole country.
I actually have an excellent independent shop near me (NW Houston) that operates just as TCCN in the Chicago area and the SMA in upstate NY. Been doing business with them for more than 30 years. There are still a few good shops out there. You just have to look.
Absolute gem of a man. Really knows what he’s doing and is dead honest. Very rare.
he is a sherlock holmes of mechanics. He gets to the bottom of the issues, investigates it and then makes diagnoses. love his work.
Good video. You are a rare example of a trustworthy technician and auto business owner. Blessings
Lots of rushing and not caring in many industries. Im a retired high voltage lineman 40 years and took pride in my work. 71 now and enjoy fixing automobiles. Always learning from your expertise and skills
You sir are the best mechanic. Humble attitude. I love your attention to following up with each problem. You ask questions. Great problem solver. You are looking for what is best for your customer. I enjoy wrenching on my own cars. Your approach to working on cars is inspirational. Good job. Thank you for sharing your thought process.
Thank you for modeling how a person of integrity should behave. Love your channel and your commitment to finding the root cause of the problems presented to be fixed.
Ahmed, it is a pleasure to hear a real professional. My comment is going to be lost among another thousands of the same kind, but I can’t move on without expressing my admiration of your knowledge, professional expertise, openness of your mind, great work ethic, and so on… Besides you look and talk like one of my far cousins, who lives far away 😊 So, when i watch you, I’m feeling like meeting him…
This mechanic is a mechanic i could absolutely trust. I would recommend family and friends if you were near me. Good work man
AMD, you're the true angel for a lot of people on this earth.
How rare to find....and honest mechanic .....one who actually has integrity.
My dad has the 16 Avalon hybrid and loves it! Sounds like he too barely ever has to get gasoline for it. I never heard him mention any issues.
Experience speaks volumes
that red avalon is such a beauty. it should last forever for minimal usage. I call BS if someone tells me it needs a big job in a second.
Absolutely agree with you 💯
I have been watching your channel for so long because of your passion about Toyota vehicles… but your honesty and dedication to your job as a mechanic is so amazing.. you are one in a million…
Great video,
This flat rate and "I don't care" attitude is ruining the service department at dealerships. Any career path you choose you need to strive to be the best at it
This is a reflection of society…it starts at home. Not all but a huge percentage of 20 somethings don’t care. It’s the reason why companies are having trouble filling jobs….why the US military is having to lower their standards to keep service members.
You have to work for yourself or start a business. Scrubs are not paid enough to care. When a repair takes a mechanic 20 minutes to fix and the shop bills it at book hours and doesn't pay their mechanic book hours, he's probably not going to care.
A mechanic with integrity!! Wish all mechanics were that way! God bless you to my friend!
May G-d bless you and your sense of integrity/honor!
Again you have shown why you are a superior mechanic and we wish we all had one of you near us.
My hat is off to you! It’s extremely difficult to find an honest mechanic nowadays! You exemplify the trade!! Thank you for this video!!
Congrats on getting to 1 Million ~ really enjoy your content and Character!!
I have 167,000 on my 2GR .... only getting it broke in. I am a pull the radiator guy, it comes out very easy
What a refreshing change. I'm from the UK and I have personally been ripped off by garages three times. Once by a friend he did a rebuild on my old Astra and he refused to correct the damage. Plus two other garages one a main dealer. With regards to you and your dealership by all of the videos I have seen. I can tell you really care about doing a good honest day's work repairing cars. And you care about your customers.
First class impression of your business. Your videos are also really informative 👏 👍.
a real gentleman and honest mechanic
Pine Hollow Diagnostics is another great channel. His focus is usually electrical problems and he follows a similar style TCCN. Both channels are treasures.
for diag issues yes but for hvac no
I wish there were more honest auto repair shops such as yours.
Dealers always gouge you, they have high overhead, brand new facility.
Keep putting out your videos. It gives us ammo on what to look for or listen what we are being told that it needs un-necessary work.
Thanks for your videos.
11,000 miles in ten years? That in itself is a crime. A beautiful car like that needs to be free and drive and drive for miles and miles and miles and miles and miles and miles and miles. Oops, 😬 sorry.
They did take it to an actual Toyota Dealership right? A new engine? This beautiful car is barely broken in on mileage and having a dealership misdiagnosis their own car should never fall upon the user. Toyota Dealerships should know this car backwards and forwards and all this frustration should not be happening.
Glad, they finally brought it to your attention and the car got the proper diagnosis. ❤
With so few miles driven by the owner, it's abundantly obvious that this car is not needed in their household. Why pay insurance, registration, etc on a car that is driven so infrequently? Fix it, sell it, move on.
@@marty4809more money than sense.
@@Paul-cl6uo Lol. I know a person with 30 cars and a 20,000 sqft home and there's only 3 people living there. Lol at thinking someone lacks sense if someone can afford something you can't and actually buys it
The clue was the high oil level but NOT milky looking. Not water, in other words it was fuel diluting the oil. NOTHING at all amiss with the engine except very unusual operator "errors". Change the oil, plugs and chat with the owner about bring it up to temp and DRIVING it for a bit! But the water in the headliner there? That's doomsday if you don't get that fixed!
And miles 😊
I wish you were here In Maryland. We have the some of the worst dealerships for service. One of them told me that I needed an alternator for $ 2,400 . No signs of a failing alternator. Here we are two years later, no problems.
Sir, I loved watching you. My 2008 Tundra 5.7L stop starting , NO CRANK, NO TURN, NO START. Put new battery, checked all fuses and relay are good, dashboard lighted up when turn and now got error codes, P.0335, P340, P0345, P0365, P0390.
Where is Your shop located. When I see someone like You, I am ready to drive thousands of mile and bring the car to You. You made may Year!
Homer Glen, IL. Google "TCCN Automotive."
Chicago area
You are a very good mechanic. It is refreshing listening to you.
Another great VDO. You really are passionate about your profession, and it shows. The world needs more people like you.
We need more honest and competent mechanics like you. I unfortunately also ran into incompetence while taking my vehicle to a dealership.