You were just expressing your exasperation at everything you were seeing wrong with it. I’d be really mad if that were my vehicle and I had paid for that mess instead of a good repair. You’re honest, that’s why it bothered you and got the best of your patience.
Worked in a actual service garage! Family owned and later I was chief mechanic! If I lived anywhere near south main auto would be where I would take my automobile's. Best, knowledgeable and respectable work I have seen in years.
I can do somethings he does but not much. The electrical stuff mostly. Eric's troubleshooting skills are just top notch and he's the best I've ever seen as well.
@@shemp308 Now that's the kind of recommendation to be considered, coming from someone who was actually in the business! It's a sad situation going through the new, well documented, employees trying to find one that wants to do the job right and isn't too lazy to learn something new❗
Don't apologize for having a professional work ethic. People pay good money for honest work. I'm sure somebody relies on that car for groceries and medical appointments. Keep up the good work and keep giving your customers great service.
"her pointer stays above the one" I love that... you know exactly what she's saying even though she doesn't even come close to saying it right. It's pretty impressive that she noticed it and was able to connect it to the problem, there's a whole lot of drivers out there who wouldn't have done either.
"I'm usually not one for belittling other shops because.....frankly they bring me a lot of business" -This is how I choose to see it from now on lol. However, I often get the work after the customer has been drained of their money :( it is really sad sometimes.
@broomsterm More important, why doesn't word get around about the bad shop? I think they should go out of business. Sure glad there are shops like SMAR.
@@SouthMainAuto but Eric, every customer that comes to you will remain loyal as a dog! people like to do business with people they either, know, like or trust! once you get the TRUST the other 2 come automatically. that's how i built my business. always do the right thing even if it hurts! that's how YOU succeed.
I think what you a saying about other"professional" shops doing unprofessional work shows your integrity. You tell it like it is even when it is your goof. So you are a good role model for others. There really needs to be more people like you.
A good teacher will never pass on the opportunity to pass their knowledge on to the student, but it is up to the student to shut up, listen and learn. You can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink. That's why I love this channel so much useful knowledge shared to the people who take the time to watch and learn.
You have every right to call others out, in my opinion, an you're exactly right about reputations. It affects all in your line of work, not just the shop who did "less than a professional job". You were more polite than I ever would have been in that situation. Keep up the good work because you're offsetting those who have little to no justification of being in that line of business.
Why am I watching all your videos? I can't even hold a screwdriver anymore. And I don't even have a vehicle either. But if I did, I would be hard pressed to find one as honest as you. And you have great huskies too.
Amen, I'm closing in on 70 and pulled a rack and pinion out of my grandsons Audi A4 and did my sons timing belt timing belt yesterday on his Audi. There is no way I would have done any of these kind of things without watching Eric's videos. I replaced my transmission on my ls400 Lexus in my driveway also. Amazing what you can do if you have a good mentor. Him and some good internet videos are all you need. Did I mention I hate Audi's? I now see why Eric won't work on them. There's not a normal bolt in the entire car.
So basically she took her car to a knuckle dragging parts swapper and not a true mechanic that can diagnose a problem. She ended up paying for a non repair and a bunch of souvenirs. Your tongue lashing was deserved and I salute you.
I kind of get the feeling he is the guy the other garages use when they can't fix it. So they get the credit, they don't have to tell the customer who fixed it, just add their mark up to Eric O's invoice? I'd be curious to know just how often this is the case if I'm honest.
Just when I think you've reached the end of your rope and gonna rip some poor hack a new one you get all human and compassionate. Mr. O your a great mechanic but a better human being.
Actually Mr. O was right to rant; nothing like so-called professionals doing backyard-quality repair at high prices, and still not fixing the problems.
The shame is, that people who are unknowing, put their trust in an idiot, in some cases, who doesn't know his a - - from his elbow , creates this debacle, and the customer doesn't know the work he performed is crap. Thanks for diligence, hard work and experience and endless tenacity you put into your work....
Eric, you are one of the nicest guys that I "never"met. I take away just as much from your philosophy on life as I do from your technical knowledge. Thank you!!
Aloha, I'm 80 years old and this type of repair technique is not new and unfortunately it is NOT going away. I have had several mechanics that I supervised before all of the ECM era and nothing has changed. You are one of the few that have an understanding of system function, but for each one of you there are 10+ parts changers and they are ASE certified. Keep up the good work..
Brother, you don’t need to apologize. We appreciate your truthfulness. I thought the same thing when I saw this level of workmanship. Although I’m not a professional mechanic I always do quality work on any of my projects, whether it’s on my house or car. Be safe.
Just another mechanic with a scan tool? Not quite. This man proves his intuition and goes above and beyond any other mechanic. And for that i thank you Eric.Hope u prosper in your business and continue to have a great life with your awesome family. Aaron g southwick mass. Im in the rust belt too. I feel ur pain
I enjoy your work ethics please always speak your mind. I've had mitemares come from other shops as well. I just smile and how can I help. Have yourself a blessed day with family and friends
Eric, I agree with CaptPuget. You are discounting a lifetime of experience. Most mechanics can't do what you do--or aren't willing to figure out the problem. I really enjoy your banter and your family interactions.
I have a small issue similar. I fix golf carts as a hobby. In my camp ground I'll charge for my time and apparently I'm more expensive then this other yoyo. After he riggs things together and it dies it gets pushed to my lawn where I fix it right. I will charge a undoing fee then my time to fix it right. 😀 if you are going to charge, for God's sake do it right! I tell this dude don't take people's money when you haven't a clue what your doing! I love this channel, learned so much over the years!! Really appreciate the videos!!
I concur. It's unfortunate that one "bad apple" or many, have stigmatized a properly honest mechanic and the many (or the few) who bring dignity and compassion to an evolving and important trade. The sever lack of professionalism is perhaps, the very reason why domestic automobile manufacturers cannot mass produce cars worth a damn. If they had professional mechanics like Eric O., Toyota would have better competition...then again, I am stigmatizing the whole rather than researching the excellent. Love your channel, Eric. Keep up the most excellent work.
You hit the nail on the head sir. If you're going to call yourself a professional and charge people money for repairs, they should be performed with the appropriate care and professionalism. It's one thing not to know it's another to be a hack. Way to show your professionalism and continue to elevate the industry. Hope you and the family are well and staying safe!
I really enjoy watching your videos trouble shooting is one of my favorite things to do it’s extremely satisfying when you identify the problem and fix it!!! who needs to go to college when you can work on things to make a decent living thanks for the content and the wisdom
Great video Eric. Very professional. Harsh on that other shop but they earned it. You showed class by going back and pointing out why they shouldn't have done what they did. Well done.
It seems like the folks that live around Avoca and that get their rides repaired there would watch his channel. If not they may need to start watching. Because from what I can see the man has that automotive passion and pride in what he does, the drive to grow with the advancements in the industry. It may take just a little more time and knowledge to do it right but you won't have to do it over which in the long run is what grows or kills a shop. Negative talk moves twice a fast. Keep on getting it right Mr.O
Looks like you will have another customer, from another shop. Easy enough diagnose, on the vacuum leaks. If they are offended by your comments hopefully they watched the entire video and learned something. Good on you to not name them. Great video as usual
Thanks for this video. Just used it to diagnose a racing up and down idle in a 2001 Escape with a 3.0. My friend wanted to put a new IAC on it, I said let's smoke it and lo and behold the vacuum hose from the pcv to intake had gotton against the exhaust manifold creating a massive vacuum leak. I'm not in a shop, just a retired gear head with some tools and plenty of time. Thanks again. Jon in Tucson
I always enjoy your commentary and lessons on how systems work. As you said, shops that let a vehicle go in that condition are giving the industry a bad name. I never would have accepted that mess. And yes, watching Trump talk on his own is a hoot!
Its actually nice to hear comments about people having pride in their work - you had another video perhaps even with that very title. Far too many people are interested in just making a buck rather than providing a real service. It only takes a few to cast a bad light on an entire industry. Thanks Eric!
As a diyer. Its ok to say what you said . I also worked as a professional mechanic for a dealership of all places, that kind of workmanship is what gives good mechanics a bad name. Keep up the good work. I have to say I have watched almost all of your videos and I have learned a lot. If I would of had a mentor like yourself maybe I would have stayed in the field. So thank you and keep up the good work.
Man, you have nothing to apologize for. You're absolutely right. If it's a shop, they need to be doing a professional job. But like you said, if you're a hillbilly, shade tree mechanic, go for it. At least until you can get somebody to fix it the right way. Keep doing what you're doing. I really enjoy your channel, and I learn a lot. We both know Automotive is always a learning curve. Have a good one.
I love u calling out another shop on there shotty work and your right that's why I'd rather do my own work versus trust a shop but if I have to take it to a shop I'd rather find a place like yours where I get my moneys worth I watch all your videos u amaze me with some of the stuff u fix keep up the great work in the shop and thank u for the videos
That's the type of smoke you do not want to inhale, am I right.. lol.. Thank you for your honest opinion, It don't bother me at all to hear HONESTY, we need more of it.....
I think you were actually being kind with your comments about professionalism. A mechanic that cares is always trying to be better and give his customers the best possible repair.
Nah, they don't care. They got their money with little cost to them. As long as they quote a cheaper price they know they will be a persons first choice.
@@fullmetalt-shirt8355 They don't quote cheaper though. Did you not hear the part where Eric said that he knows what shop it came from, and that shop charges pretty much the same rate as he does?
Good chance a family friend has bodged it up. As Eric says in another video, you never get the full story. Wouldn't surprise me if the woman asked for it to be done as cheaply as possible "Just till I get another car...". Some people you can advise, but they just ignore you until it becomes critical, then moan you didn't help them.
19:54 THANK YOU for saying this. I unfortunately see a lot of work like that and really unfortunately have even worked with people (for a short time) who did work like that, because there are a lot of really garbage mechanics out there. I've even seen this kind of work from dealerships, along with the usual poked wires, broken clips, misrouted wiring, missing bolts, etc. It makes me sick because I put so much pride and effort into my work, but the mechanics who get it done faster (but crappier) often get paid more, at least for a little while. I understand that things sometimes break on an old car because, lets face it, they aren't built to last. But if everything you touch breaks and you fix it all with electrical tape and super glue, you are the problem. It's nice to be the guy who fixes it right after the other person (or people) got it wrong and/or made it worse, but it really makes us all look bad. 28:40 Ignorance is not an excuse for bad work. It doesn't take a mentor to know that a car should be in better shape than it was before a person fixes it. That's kind of the definition of "fix." Charging someone to fix their car and breaking a ton of other things in the process or generally doing really horrible work is not acceptable under any circumstance. Every professional mechanic has access to training of some sort. It requires them to recognize that they need to improve and take the necessary steps to improve. It should not require someone to tell them that their work sucks. Sometimes the most respectful and useful thing you can do is call out someone who needs to do better or do something else. Another great video, as always.
Another thing professionals need to remember is that book time is book time. For every job that takes half the time you get to bill, there's another job that takes longer. Either way, it should be done right. My steering wheel has been crooked for a long time. The mechanic who installed the new steering rack did so with the column misaligned by one spline and "couldn't afford the time" to correct their mistake. Needless to say, I've never been back to that particular shop.
Eric O never apologize for telling the truth. I’m not a professional automotive technician, but I (as most people can) spot a crappy job when I see it. Just think of it like this. Maybe you have gotten a new customer. Great job as always. Keep up the honesty and work brother. We greatly appreciate you.
After the probably hundred videos I've watched here I would easily pay well over dealership prices if I knew this guy was working on my car. They say you don't pay for the labor but for the knowledge of the mechanic and boy oh boy this man has forgot more about cars then I will ever learn in my life time. Love the videos man, stay humble it adds so much to these videos. Hey any chance you could stop by Ohio : )
And there, and over there and up there and down there and in there and out there and around there and down there. Look like someone set the parts cannon on full auto.
I've had vehicles like that in the past. I've tried to help the other shop or shops and sometimes it helps. Being a City Fleet Auto Electrician, there were many times I wondered if I was in over my head. Sometimes you've got to stand back rethink the problem, locate and fix it. And let the other shop know what you did to find the problem. Thinking "outa the box" will help a lot!
I am at 19:33. So WHY would that many rubber parts fail? Exhaust leak under the hood? Engine constantly running hotter than intended? Aux Electric fan not functioning??? (I don't know!!! I am old school we had Sun Distributor machines and generator/start motor "rattlers" and Ociliscopes and thought we were "hi-tech".) An "advance" timing light: OMG that was Buck Rogers! How do you guys do it today???? We gapped most Fords in a pinch with a book of matches (0.016inch, about). Don't take this with any seriousness, I am just a very old mechanic that loves your analytical approach and wish you the continued best.
The concept is called "design life" Back when things were designed by small teams using paper and slide rules they built in extra margin for themselves because it could easily be one guys fault that a part didn't last. Now with huge collaborative teams of designers working with well-defined design criteria we have much less maintenance and more sophisticated vehicles, but this creates an new problem... saving one penny on a part makes sense when you are making 500,000 of them. And designing with a particularly defined lifespan is another. If it needs to last for a design life of 15 years, that might dictate a less costly rubber formulation. Now that the car is 18, everything's starting to fall apart. For contrast, go check out what Cold War Motors works on :)
Pretty much anything built after the 90's runs hotter under the hood because of the way they crammed everything under it. Nice hot converters hanging off the manifolds all the lines and wiring blocking airflow, or worse the insulated engine covers and noise insulation that holds the heat all under the hood.
Wow Ben! You take me back to my automotive school days. Remember when we measured the capacitance of the condenser? Then discovered it didn't really matter as long as the metal stayed put on the points. The engine itself was as good a distributor machine as any with a scope and variable timing light. I see a lot of rotted "rubber" parts on vehicles these days. I mean the kind that turn your fingers black and don't want to come off with industrial hand cleaners. These parts just don't hold up to the petroleum vapor environment. I've seen too many sucked shut or dissolved.
Good job Boss! I'm the old grump in the shop. I hope not to have disgruntled the guys, but sometimes the negative compliment + encouragement is the ticket to motivate them into cooperation. As you have accomplished here. We are mechanics and techs. Rough and tough. We're not made of glass. Thank you for improving the industry standard. We really don't like it when customers have just cause to lump us in with attorneys and and other life forms whom have given their selected industry an improvised reputation.
My comment is just to say that i like the channel and watching you diagnose electrical,vacuum problems plus knuckle busting work that brings out big nasty and ect. Have a good day to you and your family.
I had several good mentors when I started working on cars and Eric O. is correct. It is very important. One guy I worked for taught me to respect the customer by saying "Imagine your mother will be picking up the car . You'll be hearing about everything you did wrong for the rest of her life."
@South Main Auto Repair LLC it makes me sad to see such an easy fix in terms of troubleshooting get by a shop three times before the customer gave up. It get that some shops rush their mechanics and use the parts cannon approach, it's a good thing they focus on domestics where the parts are relatively cheap. You pull that on German cars and you will long be broke before you diagnose the problem. On this sweet rig, I would have been very tempted to replace the MAF. Not a fan of MAFs that are over reporting air by 25% at idle, but you did a great service on this car regardless of it's current value or lifetime left. +1 for SMA!
Good Job Eric. The issue that really sucks is when a customer is told the engine is no good and needs to be replaced. That's when it gets really expensive for the unknowing!!. I wish more shops were as caring for their customers as you are and as well educated. I have learned so much following your videos, thank you and keep up the great education you are providing.
@@ckm-mkc That being the case, their Automotive problems would still end at SMA. If it's unfixable, or not worth it in the customers eyes. Problem solved
Great diagnosis and repair. I'm curious, is there a smoke machine that you'd recommend for an individual to use on their own cars (not a commercial mechanic)?
You are correct in the education/mentor, with out them you will not succeed or you will be a hack for ever. I like the way you treat customers treat them fair and honest and you can sleep well at night. Great lesson for all of us. Thank you.
Eric O, you are one of the most humble and honest mechanics around. We need more like you. I wish you were closer to me, I would send you all of my business. Keep up the awesome vids. I've learned so much from watching you through the years.
If there is anyone who deserves accolades but is too humble to accept them, it is Eric O. You are the best I have seen at tracking down problems like this and you are still "I am not a professional". I do not know how much work you turn down, but you would be buying a new shop and not even have to work on another car short of diagnosing if everyone around you brought you their cars. Once again, good job, good video and good night!
Thanks to videos like this I now have the confidence to smoke test my fox body and do something about these pesky vacuum leaks. Thanks Eric as I’ve been putting this job off for 7 months now
PREACH Mr. O, preach, seem too many Mickey Mouse operations under the guise of professionals performing underhanded repairs. FIX IT RIGHT FIRST TIME OR DON’T TOUCH IT. CUSTOMERS WORK TOO HARD FOR THEIR MONEY AND DESERVE VALVE FOR THEIR DOLLAR, ENOUGH OF MY RANT 😂. GOOD JOB SIR
You were just expressing your exasperation at everything you were seeing wrong with it. I’d be really mad if that were my vehicle and I had paid for that mess instead of a good repair.
You’re honest, that’s why it bothered you and got the best of your patience.
Completely agree. I thought it was very reserved, considering a home mechanic should also be ashamed of that mess.
Electrical tape is not made for taping hoses up..... at least not long-term
"Learn to do you job right or get a different job ."
Never a true word spoken.
Dont be afraid speak the truth.
If you can do do it I can do it? Um, no. Just no. I come from a long line of mechanics and car guys and you're the best I've ever seen.
Worked in a actual service garage! Family owned and later I was chief mechanic! If I lived anywhere near south main auto would be where I would take my automobile's. Best, knowledgeable and respectable work I have seen in years.
I can do somethings he does but not much. The electrical stuff mostly. Eric's troubleshooting skills are just top notch and he's the best I've ever seen as well.
@@shemp308
Now that's the kind of recommendation to be considered, coming from someone who was actually in the business!
It's a sad situation going through the new, well documented, employees trying to find one that wants to do the job right and isn't too lazy to learn something new❗
I believe in UFOs do you?
Eric, what is you basic opinion of the Ford 3.0, I have a chance to buy a 99 Ford Ranger 2wheel drive w/ a 3.0l
You shouldn't feel bad for telling it like it is, wish I had a mechanic like you around, honest reliable, and knows what he's doing!!!
Don't apologize for having a professional work ethic. People pay good money for honest work. I'm sure somebody relies on that car for groceries and medical appointments. Keep up the good work and keep giving your customers great service.
"her pointer stays above the one" I love that... you know exactly what she's saying even though she doesn't even come close to saying it right. It's pretty impressive that she noticed it and was able to connect it to the problem, there's a whole lot of drivers out there who wouldn't have done either.
"I'm usually not one for belittling other shops because.....frankly they bring me a lot of business" -This is how I choose to see it from now on lol. However, I often get the work after the customer has been drained of their money :( it is really sad sometimes.
Yeah that's the sucky part...
Even worse than being drained of their money is being drained of their patience.
@broomsterm More important, why doesn't word get around about the bad shop? I think they should go out of business. Sure glad there are shops like SMAR.
@@SouthMainAuto but Eric, every customer that comes to you will remain loyal as a dog! people like to do business with people they either, know, like or trust! once you get the TRUST the other 2 come automatically. that's how i built my business. always do the right thing even if it hurts! that's how YOU succeed.
The bad thing is Eric probably charged them less than the other shop, and he did it right.
I think what you a saying about other"professional" shops doing unprofessional work shows your integrity. You tell it like it is even when it is your goof. So you are a good role model for others. There really needs to be more people like you.
A good teacher will never pass on the opportunity to pass their knowledge on to the student, but it is up to the student to shut up, listen and learn. You can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink. That's why I love this channel so much useful knowledge shared to the people who take the time to watch and learn.
Eric O. you did the right thing calling out bad work from other shop don't feel bad about it !
Rock On....!
You have every right to call others out, in my opinion, an you're exactly right about reputations. It affects all in your line of work, not just the shop who did "less than a professional job". You were more polite than I ever would have been in that situation. Keep up the good work because you're offsetting those who have little to no justification of being in that line of business.
Buanna Jim I do better jobs and I’m not even a mechanic. It’s laziness is what it is no one takes pride in there works anymore
Why am I watching all your videos? I can't even hold a screwdriver anymore. And I don't even have a vehicle either. But if I did, I would be hard pressed to find one as honest as you. And you have great huskies too.
Thanks for the extra videos you’ve been doing. Gives us something to look forward to.
“I’m not a feeling hurter” Words to live by. 😆 Also, it’s worth mentioning that you’re the mentor/teacher to a lot of people through your videos.
Amen, I'm closing in on 70 and pulled a rack and pinion out of my grandsons Audi A4 and did my sons timing belt timing belt yesterday on his Audi. There is no way I would have done any of these kind of things without watching Eric's videos. I replaced my transmission on my ls400 Lexus in my driveway also. Amazing what you can do if you have a good mentor. Him and some good internet videos are all you need. Did I mention I hate Audi's? I now see why Eric won't work on them. There's not a normal bolt in the entire car.
So basically she took her car to a knuckle dragging parts swapper and not a true mechanic that can diagnose a problem. She ended up paying for a non repair and a bunch of souvenirs. Your tongue lashing was deserved and I salute you.
You know it's bad when mr.o says that about another shop...
Your one hell of a good man
I haven"t seen that much smoke since a Cheech and Chong movie.....
SMA. SMOKE MACHINE ACTIVATED🐸
Imagine if they had a smoke machine back way... back.
Have a look at some of letsdig 18 videos, you will really see some smoke.
I kind of get the feeling he is the guy the other garages use when they can't fix it. So they get the credit, they don't have to tell the customer who fixed it, just add their mark up to Eric O's invoice? I'd be curious to know just how often this is the case if I'm honest.
is someone opening CV axles in here?
Hey there is nobody that can come even close to out smoking cheech & Chong!
Just when I think you've reached the end of your rope and gonna rip some poor hack a new one you get all human and compassionate. Mr. O your a great mechanic but a better human being.
Actually Mr. O was right to rant; nothing like so-called professionals doing backyard-quality repair at high prices, and still not fixing the problems.
The shops you mention are like the ones 'round here. I don't know who to trust anymore. Even Meineke tried to screw me. I respect you and your work.
Meineke is the worst of the worst. NEVER go to a chain operation
The shame is, that people who are unknowing, put their trust in an idiot, in some cases, who doesn't know his a - - from his elbow , creates this debacle, and the customer doesn't know the work he performed is crap.
Thanks for diligence, hard work and experience and endless tenacity you put into your work....
Keep doing what you do Eric, raising awareness on what it takes to be a proper Technician - you're awesome 👍
Eric, you are one of the nicest guys that I "never"met. I take away just as much from your philosophy on life as I do from your technical knowledge.
Thank you!!
Oh no you took all the zip ties off the engine will just fall apart...... Good job Eric nice to see a craftsman at work.
Aloha, I'm 80 years old and this type of repair technique is not new and unfortunately it is NOT going away. I have had several mechanics that I supervised before all of the ECM era and nothing has changed. You are one of the few that have an understanding of system function, but for each one of you there are 10+ parts changers and they are ASE certified. Keep up the good work..
The Duratec 3.0 is a pretty solid engine, glad to see an old Ford Escape still humming along in upstate NY.
But this thing is a junker?
as long as they are antirusted and all oils are changed, they dont die
Brother, you don’t need to apologize. We appreciate your truthfulness. I thought the same thing when I saw this level of workmanship. Although I’m not a professional mechanic I always do quality work on any of my projects, whether it’s on my house or car. Be safe.
That’s why I like doing my own work, I can screw it up a lot cheaper than paying somebody to do it, great video always nice to see the Avocca smokka
Just another mechanic with a scan tool? Not quite. This man proves his intuition and goes above and beyond any other mechanic. And for that i thank you Eric.Hope u prosper in your business and continue to have a great life with your awesome family. Aaron g southwick mass. Im in the rust belt too. I feel ur pain
I enjoy your work ethics please always speak your mind. I've had mitemares come from other shops as well. I just smile and how can I help. Have yourself a blessed day with family and friends
Eric, I agree with CaptPuget. You are discounting a lifetime of experience. Most mechanics can't do what you do--or aren't willing to figure out the problem.
I really enjoy your banter and your family interactions.
"What have we got on the spacecraft that's good?" "Uh, I'll have to get back to you on that." - Apollo 13
If Eric O. worked for NASA in 1970 Jim Lovell would have been the 5th man on the moon.
I wish there were more guys as absolutely professional and honest as you are, you are amazing! 👍
You are without a doubt, the best mechanic I've ever seen. Good on ya'
I have a small issue similar. I fix golf carts as a hobby. In my camp ground I'll charge for my time and apparently I'm more expensive then this other yoyo. After he riggs things together and it dies it gets pushed to my lawn where I fix it right. I will charge a undoing fee then my time to fix it right. 😀 if you are going to charge, for God's sake do it right! I tell this dude don't take people's money when you haven't a clue what your doing!
I love this channel, learned so much over the years!! Really appreciate the videos!!
You were right to call the other shop(s) work out. It's your profession. Do it right the first time and treat your customers properly.
I concur. It's unfortunate that one "bad apple" or many, have stigmatized a properly honest mechanic and the many (or the few) who bring dignity and compassion to an evolving and important trade. The sever lack of professionalism is perhaps, the very reason why domestic automobile manufacturers cannot mass produce cars worth a damn. If they had professional mechanics like Eric O., Toyota would have better competition...then again, I am stigmatizing the whole rather than researching the excellent.
Love your channel, Eric. Keep up the most excellent work.
You hit the nail on the head sir. If you're going to call yourself a professional and charge people money for repairs, they should be performed with the appropriate care and professionalism. It's one thing not to know it's another to be a hack. Way to show your professionalism and continue to elevate the industry. Hope you and the family are well and staying safe!
I really enjoy watching your videos trouble shooting is one of my favorite things to do it’s extremely satisfying when you identify the problem and fix it!!! who needs to go to college when you can work on things to make a decent living thanks for the content and the wisdom
You spoke from your heart, nothing wrong with that.
People get tired of getting ripped off.
Keep up the good work and be safe.
I would speculate there was nothing wrong with the original idle air control valve - nice job, Eric!
Great video Eric. Very professional. Harsh on that other shop but they earned it. You showed class by going back and pointing out why they shouldn't have done what they did. Well done.
It seems like the folks that live around Avoca and that get their rides repaired there would watch his channel. If not they may need to start watching. Because from what I can see the man has that automotive passion and pride in what he does, the drive to grow with the advancements in the industry. It may take just a little more time and knowledge to do it right but you won't have to do it over which in the long run is what grows or kills a shop. Negative talk moves twice a fast. Keep on getting it right Mr.O
Looks like you will have another customer, from another shop. Easy enough diagnose, on the vacuum leaks. If they are offended by your comments hopefully they watched the entire video and learned something. Good on you to not name them. Great video as usual
Great lesson, Mr. O. I like you're style and being respectful but truthful.
Thanks for this video. Just used it to diagnose a racing up and down idle in a 2001 Escape with a 3.0. My friend wanted to put a new IAC on it, I said let's smoke it and lo and behold the vacuum hose from the pcv to intake had gotton against the exhaust manifold creating a massive vacuum leak. I'm not in a shop, just a retired gear head with some tools and plenty of time. Thanks again. Jon in Tucson
I always enjoy your commentary and lessons on how systems work. As you said, shops that let a vehicle go in that condition are giving the industry a bad name. I never would have accepted that mess. And yes, watching Trump talk on his own is a hoot!
It's always a Hoot!... Until the "Slime Stream Media" starts cutting and pasting his comments.....
Please revote Trump, Im in the bleach business.
@@Tedybear315 100k dead he is calling a win, media got nothing to do with him being a shit head.
@Don Francisco haha yeah sure. Trump would really exaggerate the numbers up to make him look worse
Its actually nice to hear comments about people having pride in their work - you had another video perhaps even with that very title. Far too many people are interested in
just making a buck rather than providing a real service. It only takes a few to cast a bad light on an entire industry. Thanks Eric!
When are ppl going to learn to come to SMA first, not last.
Hear Hear
SMA..Smart Mechanic Available
i know if i was local to him thats where i would go
ALWAYS BRING YOUR CR BACK TO THE DEALER
MIGHT BE MORE BUT BETTER THAN GOING TO A FLY BY NIGHT SHOP
All in favor say AYE all opposed leave the room.
@@dvddmc Yeah, if I was local and brought him mine he would regret ever touching a car.
As a diyer. Its ok to say what you said . I also worked as a professional mechanic for a dealership of all places, that kind of workmanship is what gives good mechanics a bad name. Keep up the good work. I have to say I have watched almost all of your videos and I have learned a lot. If I would of had a mentor like yourself maybe I would have stayed in the field. So thank you and keep up the good work.
The "Avoca smoka" strikes again!
Man, you have nothing to apologize for. You're absolutely right. If it's a shop, they need to be doing a professional job. But like you said, if you're a hillbilly, shade tree mechanic, go for it. At least until you can get somebody to fix it the right way. Keep doing what you're doing. I really enjoy your channel, and I learn a lot. We both know Automotive is always a learning curve. Have a good one.
Oh boy, it wasn't just the engine that got smoked in this one! Tell it like it is Dr. O!
I love u calling out another shop on there shotty work and your right that's why I'd rather do my own work versus trust a shop but if I have to take it to a shop I'd rather find a place like yours where I get my moneys worth I watch all your videos u amaze me with some of the stuff u fix keep up the great work in the shop and thank u for the videos
That's the type of smoke you do not want to inhale, am I right.. lol.. Thank you for your honest opinion, It don't bother me at all to hear HONESTY, we need more of it.....
I think you were actually being kind with your comments about professionalism. A mechanic that cares is always trying to be better and give his customers the best possible repair.
The other shop is watching this saying, oh shit, our shady work has been exposed.
Nah, they don't care. They got their money with little cost to them. As long as they quote a cheaper price they know they will be a persons first choice.
Well, they weren't named...
On the plus side, if they are watching this on YT, they might end up knowing how to fix cars...
@@fullmetalt-shirt8355 They don't quote cheaper though. Did you not hear the part where Eric said that he knows what shop it came from, and that shop charges pretty much the same rate as he does?
Good chance a family friend has bodged it up.
As Eric says in another video, you never get the full story.
Wouldn't surprise me if the woman asked for it to be done as cheaply as possible "Just till I get another car...".
Some people you can advise, but they just ignore you until it becomes critical, then moan you didn't help them.
Getting to watch your repair videos for free on the UA-cam is pretty spectacular. Thank you for still letting us tag along
19:54 THANK YOU for saying this. I unfortunately see a lot of work like that and really unfortunately have even worked with people (for a short time) who did work like that, because there are a lot of really garbage mechanics out there. I've even seen this kind of work from dealerships, along with the usual poked wires, broken clips, misrouted wiring, missing bolts, etc. It makes me sick because I put so much pride and effort into my work, but the mechanics who get it done faster (but crappier) often get paid more, at least for a little while. I understand that things sometimes break on an old car because, lets face it, they aren't built to last. But if everything you touch breaks and you fix it all with electrical tape and super glue, you are the problem. It's nice to be the guy who fixes it right after the other person (or people) got it wrong and/or made it worse, but it really makes us all look bad.
28:40 Ignorance is not an excuse for bad work. It doesn't take a mentor to know that a car should be in better shape than it was before a person fixes it. That's kind of the definition of "fix." Charging someone to fix their car and breaking a ton of other things in the process or generally doing really horrible work is not acceptable under any circumstance. Every professional mechanic has access to training of some sort. It requires them to recognize that they need to improve and take the necessary steps to improve. It should not require someone to tell them that their work sucks. Sometimes the most respectful and useful thing you can do is call out someone who needs to do better or do something else.
Another great video, as always.
Another thing professionals need to remember is that book time is book time. For every job that takes half the time you get to bill, there's another job that takes longer. Either way, it should be done right. My steering wheel has been crooked for a long time. The mechanic who installed the new steering rack did so with the column misaligned by one spline and "couldn't afford the time" to correct their mistake. Needless to say, I've never been back to that particular shop.
It only takes longer to fix shady work then if you just did it right the first time
Eric O never apologize for telling the truth. I’m not a professional automotive technician, but I (as most people can) spot a crappy job when I see it. Just think of it like this. Maybe you have gotten a new customer. Great job as always. Keep up the honesty and work brother. We greatly appreciate you.
Great video Eric. I understand and agree with your comments about the previous shop 100%.
After the probably hundred videos I've watched here I would easily pay well over dealership prices if I knew this guy was working on my car. They say you don't pay for the labor but for the knowledge of the mechanic and boy oh boy this man has forgot more about cars then I will ever learn in my life time. Love the videos man, stay humble it adds so much to these videos. Hey any chance you could stop by Ohio : )
I'll add the quote I expected to hear, "The Escape lives to die another day." Good video as usual.
I think you've every right to say what's on your mind, you're being a great ambassador to our industry by showing how the job should be done.
There's your problem lady!
And there’s your problem and here’s you other problem and whoa here’s another problem...
And there, and over there and up there and down there and in there and out there and around there and down there. Look like someone set the parts cannon on full auto.
I've had vehicles like that in the past. I've tried to help the other shop or shops and sometimes it helps. Being a City Fleet Auto Electrician, there were many times I wondered if I was in over my head. Sometimes you've got to stand back rethink the problem, locate and fix it. And let the other shop know what you did to find the problem. Thinking "outa the box" will help a lot!
Dorman logo ironically a Wallet with wings on it! I about spit my drink across the room LOL
Peter Dymond
Lol, just as fast, your $ flys out of your pocket again and again
Dorman parts: When you can't get anything better.
Looks similar to old school Chrysler logo...🤔 that's saying something
Good work Eric, we need lots more pro auto techs like you.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am at 19:33. So WHY would that many rubber parts fail? Exhaust leak under the hood? Engine constantly running hotter than intended? Aux Electric fan not functioning??? (I don't know!!! I am old school we had Sun Distributor machines and generator/start motor "rattlers" and Ociliscopes and thought we were "hi-tech".) An "advance" timing light: OMG that was Buck Rogers! How do you guys do it today???? We gapped most Fords in a pinch with a book of matches (0.016inch, about).
Don't take this with any seriousness, I am just a very old mechanic that loves your analytical approach and wish you the continued best.
The concept is called "design life" Back when things were designed by small teams using paper and slide rules they built in extra margin for themselves because it could easily be one guys fault that a part didn't last. Now with huge collaborative teams of designers working with well-defined design criteria we have much less maintenance and more sophisticated vehicles, but this creates an new problem... saving one penny on a part makes sense when you are making 500,000 of them. And designing with a particularly defined lifespan is another. If it needs to last for a design life of 15 years, that might dictate a less costly rubber formulation. Now that the car is 18, everything's starting to fall apart. For contrast, go check out what Cold War Motors works on :)
Pretty much anything built after the 90's runs hotter under the hood because of the way they crammed everything under it. Nice hot converters hanging off the manifolds all the lines and wiring blocking airflow, or worse the insulated engine covers and noise insulation that holds the heat all under the hood.
Wow Ben! You take me back to my automotive school days. Remember when we measured the capacitance of the condenser? Then discovered it didn't really matter as long as the metal stayed put on the points. The engine itself was as good a distributor machine as any with a scope and variable timing light. I see a lot of rotted "rubber" parts on vehicles these days. I mean the kind that turn your fingers black and don't want to come off with industrial hand cleaners. These parts just don't hold up to the petroleum vapor environment. I've seen too many sucked shut or dissolved.
Cheap parts built by the lowest bidder to the lowest quality possible.
I never stopped being a kid. It has worked for 62+ years!
55, same philosophy
One maintains integrity when they say “I don’t know”. It is not a sign of weakness, however, it is a sign of strength.
Good job Boss! I'm the old grump in the shop. I hope not to have disgruntled the guys, but sometimes the negative compliment + encouragement is the ticket to motivate them into cooperation. As you have accomplished here.
We are mechanics and techs. Rough and tough. We're not made of glass.
Thank you for improving the industry standard.
We really don't like it when customers have just cause to lump us in with attorneys and and other life forms whom have given their selected industry an improvised reputation.
Speak the truth 👍🏻
My comment is just to say that i like the channel and watching you diagnose electrical,vacuum problems plus knuckle busting work that brings out big nasty and ect. Have a good day to you and your family.
Nice man. Guess we have these "shops" everywhere.
HEY JOE, LIKE THAT SUNROOF HA JOE, FREGGIN SILICONE EVERYWHERE, MONKEYS.
I had several good mentors when I started working on cars and Eric O. is correct. It is very important. One guy I worked for taught me to respect the customer by saying "Imagine your mother will be picking up the car . You'll be hearing about everything you did wrong for the rest of her life."
9:40 Was I the only one that blew at the phone screen to clear up the smoke 💨
😄😁😆
Much respect Hector.
@South Main Auto Repair LLC it makes me sad to see such an easy fix in terms of troubleshooting get by a shop three times before the customer gave up. It get that some shops rush their mechanics and use the parts cannon approach, it's a good thing they focus on domestics where the parts are relatively cheap. You pull that on German cars and you will long be broke before you diagnose the problem. On this sweet rig, I would have been very tempted to replace the MAF. Not a fan of MAFs that are over reporting air by 25% at idle, but you did a great service on this car regardless of it's current value or lifetime left. +1 for SMA!
You know its bad when Eric O says "holy crap biscuit"
Good Job Eric. The issue that really sucks is when a customer is told the engine is no good and needs to be replaced. That's when it gets really expensive for the unknowing!!. I wish more shops were as caring for their customers as you are and as well educated. I have learned so much following your videos, thank you and keep up the great education you are providing.
30 minutes. Thanks Eric.
Hope I didn't pull you from a long classic rock music marathon 🤘✊🎸🎶
@@SouthMainAuto - Did someone say classic rock? I'm in!! 🤘🙌 🎊 🎉 🍾🍹🥃
@@SouthMainAuto I really thought you were going to say, 'that's what she said'
@@SouthMainAuto nah.. just had a busy day, taking care of business!!
Glad to see shops like yours still exist. Too many fly-by-night cheats in the business, and that ruins it for the honest shops.
Thanks for sharing.
You need a sign above your shop door that says "Your automotive problems end here"
Sadly, that's not always true - some things are unfixable (no parts) or BER (beyond economic repair)
@@ckm-mkc That being the case, their Automotive problems would still end at SMA. If it's unfixable, or not worth it in the customers eyes. Problem solved
Highly competent *and* humble at the same time. A rarity in this times. Thank you, sir.
Watching for future reference as my daughter has an Escape of this vintage
Fix Or Repair Daily that's what FORD stands for here in the UK. Love these videos from Eric O and I'm not even a mechanic.
found on road dead
Could be worse, could be a FIAT 😂😂. Fix it again tomorrow.
Great diagnosis and repair. I'm curious, is there a smoke machine that you'd recommend for an individual to use on their own cars (not a commercial mechanic)?
Check out some super simple diy smoke makers on you tube , I'm a mechanic , but don't fancy spending up to $1000.00 on a smoke machine.
You are correct in the education/mentor, with out them you will not succeed or you will be a hack for ever. I like the way you treat customers treat them fair and honest and you can sleep well at night. Great lesson for all of us. Thank you.
I thought Vinnie was the Avoca Smoka
Vinnie is Sr one and Eric is the JR one. Lol
Kudos on calling it like you see it. There should be more mechanics like you calling out the bad shops out there.
Looks like this thing was trying to “escape” a good idle speed!
I’ll pretend to laugh just to make you feel good lol
You're spot on. Everyone is good at something and we all are unfamiliar at atleast one thing lol. No shame at all letting someone else do it.
"welcome back to the self-made auto channel"
Super good advice worked in the trade for 52 years education is the key
good teacher
Eric O, you are one of the most humble and honest mechanics around. We need more like you. I wish you were closer to me, I would send you all of my business. Keep up the awesome vids. I've learned so much from watching you through the years.
You're the f**king man Eric!!
If there is anyone who deserves accolades but is too humble to accept them, it is Eric O. You are the best I have seen at tracking down problems like this and you are still "I am not a professional". I do not know how much work you turn down, but you would be buying a new shop and not even have to work on another car short of diagnosing if everyone around you brought you their cars. Once again, good job, good video and good night!
There's your problem lady, and there, and there, and there.....
Lol!
Thanks to videos like this I now have the confidence to smoke test my fox body and do something about these pesky vacuum leaks. Thanks Eric as I’ve been putting this job off for 7 months now
PREACH Mr. O, preach, seem too many Mickey Mouse operations under the guise of professionals performing underhanded repairs. FIX IT RIGHT FIRST TIME OR DON’T TOUCH IT. CUSTOMERS WORK TOO HARD FOR THEIR MONEY AND DESERVE VALVE FOR THEIR DOLLAR, ENOUGH OF MY RANT 😂. GOOD JOB SIR
Eric first thanks for the videos, some entertainment in these strange times, second you are the benchmark on quality repairs. Thanks