Except sometimes it is the mechanics fault. Once had to get a coilpack installed and you had to remove the upper intake. The mechanic left the throttle cable return spring off. Plus he threw away all the shields. like the one that went over the throttle cable bracket to keep things from jamming it.
Hello Eric Scotch Locks where is the problem going to be? Good observation. My bet is old switch good, it just got moved a little out of correct positioning when you guessed it, The Scotch Lock was used. Good video and yes send them back disassembled unless they are paying g for and requesting you to reassemble with no guaranty on reassembly issues. Stay as far away from those problems as you can.
Last time I had one of my cars in pieces and had to take it in for a different repair, they called and asked if I wanted it put back together. I told them no since i was still working on the initial issue I had with it - they did the repair I asked for, so I was beyond happy with their service. To my shock, when they fixed the item in question, they saw what was wrong with it before and left me a detailed note on how to fix it so that it wouldn't do it again. I still refer people to them gladly.
Nissan master tech here. Great job finding that problem. There’s a recall for those stop lamp switches on those Sentras. Nissan says the stop lamp switch tends to open circuit due to excessive silicon dioxide buildup. The “fix” is to install a new switch inside a rubber boot and wrap it with electrical tape. Looks like a giant ball of electrical tape in the end. It’s kinda funny.
I worked at nissan and this recall “fix” looks worse than what a random person repair would look like. I can’t believe that the repair looks like that when done correctly.
being in an independent shop. even after the recall, i have replaced numerous brake switches and have seen the taped up mess they do. Just a poor switch design
@@lactose101 wow!, that's amazing. That sounds like a mess and it wouldn't keep out moisture unless the switch housing is sealed from the factory. You still have the plunger hole.
If that Nissan Nightmare flat-bed'd into my bay I'd say HAVE A NICE DAY LADY & kick that thing out the moment I saw the scotch's. This car reminded me of that 80's truck where Eric basically had to re-wire the entire power-distribution block in the engine bay without a friggin' wiring diagram.. that was painful but I think it was for a kid who's father had passed away 😓
I agree with you, Mr. O. Too many people will say now it makes this noise or this doesn't work since you put it back together. I applaud Mrs. O for saying what the customer will say to her: "What didn't you put it back together?" Always a pleasure watching you diagnose a problem and as always, it's a pleasure to see an appearance of Mrs. O.
He was trying to make sure it wasn't a wire or a connection maybe. If you jump the gun too quick and put in a new one.. just to realize that it's still having the same issue; that's not good. It's worth it to spend a little time to zero in on the exact issue.... But at the same time, I agree. lol.. I didn't fiddle with it that long either- I pulled my switch out and took it all apart and seen that the little trace inside had worn all the way through it. New switch was actually very cheap.
@@steveo4749 I had the same issue with my 2002 Acura MDX.. It would start, but it just wouldn't shift into gear.. Luckily it had a little push pin bypass so I could still get it home. I did a little diag on it: new brake switch fixed it.
Mr. O. I am Edward and I have an older automobile shop (work on later model vehicles, and do conversions and retros along with some racing stuff) in Connecticut and yes, I have all the wonderful accreditations and certifications and all that other blah blah blah but if I had to take any vehicle to anybody that’s on the Internet and we know there are a bunch of them, the only place that I would take my vehicle is to your shop and that’s the Gods honest truth! I’m an engineer along with being a fully certified auto and diesel repair tech, but you are very proficient and excellent in your field so I just wanted to put that out there that you are in very high regard in my book. Having a wonderful wife like Mrs. O I think puts some alfalfa in your oats.. meaning; she makes you a happy man and that’s always very good to have as well! You and Vanessa have an excellent family and you should consider yourself extremely lucky! Best regards; Edward H. in Madison, Connecticut
As a customer of a dealership AND a local independent mechanic, AND a manufacturing mechanic/electrician/troubleshooter for 40+ years. I would…1. Tell the mechanic exactly what I had already done to try to diagnose/repair the problem. Including any aftermarket add-ons I had installed. 2. Explain that I left all the jiggly bits removed so that he wouldn’t have to remove them again himself. 3. Would have removed the bits from the vehicle, or at least bag them and get them out of his way. 4. Specifically tell him I didn’t expect him to reinstall them. 5. Thank him profusely, pay him, and thank him again!
Did exactly that when I needed a heater core, evaporator & expansion valve. I got it disassembled as far as I could and still drive it to the shop. Bagged and tagged everything and took it out of the vehicle. Advised my mechanic I'd reassemble at home. Side benefit was I saved a lot of $'s in disassembly/reassembly labor.
@@paulsullivan6392 Gee if you did all that you might as well of installed the heater core, evaporator, and expansion valve yourself and then just had the mechanic charge the A/C system. Just getting to all that stuff is half the battle, at least the first two. Unless i have misunderstood what you are saying. I won't get into the DIY of using these aftermarket "refrigerant" cans that are sold.
In my 57 years on this rock, it has been my experience that the guys that say they *aren't* the best at something (like our humble Mr. O says) really *are* the best. Thanks for the video, Mr. O.
As I tell my wife, it’s not cynicism it’s 25 years of experience. In other words, with age and experience comes wisdom… often confused by friggity frigs as cynicism. Good job.
"There are lots of people smarter than you, Eric?" Yes, but can they figure out what the problem is? Remember, you are some people's last hope! GREAT VIDEO!
I feel your pain Eric. I’ve been a flooring installer for about thirty years. I once replaced a damaged board in a kitchen, where the customer dropped a soup can, only to have them later complain that they have had a squeak in their hallway ever since I did the repair. Dealing with the public is a treat.
I custom build PC desktop computers from components. I learned early on to get the customer to sign a statement that they are hiring me to _choose_ the components for them AND any hardware failure is the problem of the manufacturer (giving them the various manufacturers' warranties) AND that I am delivering bare naked hardware with no software at all. My first few builds the customers paid and thought that bought endless time as a help-line from me including debugging software. I discuss this issue at length before I accept the build contract. I lose only a few customers. Like Eric O I have built enough of a repeat clientele that I have no need for the trouble makers.
But…….. The kitchen bone is connected to the dining room bone, the dining room bone is connected to the hallway bone. Therefore the repair travels directly to the hallway. That is how that works.
I'm a red seal mechanic working for 45 years plus Automotive. And had work with my mom and dad for 20 years on and off and work for other people for many years. And it would have been an absolute pleasure to work with a man like you with your attitude and perspective and troubleshooting abilities it is amazing to find and see a man who's got Compassionate Heart and a real nose for problems and really really loves that wife of his!! All the best from Surrey BC Canada
A little tip about fob batteries: A new battery starts out with about 3.25 to 3.29 volts. I have found that the fobs don't work when the voltage drops to below 3 volts, say 2.9 volts. I check the batteries with a DVOM meter.
Let's not forget Matt over at Schrodinger's Box who uses science via the scientific method to diagnose any automotive problems. Many don't like him because he tells it like it is or simply jealousy. When it comes to electrical diagnostics I would place Matt against anyone. Just saying...
Good diagnosis, excellent sleuthing for the cause. Be sure you didn't move any of the screws / bolts. I had them here and now they aren't where I put them - you moved it !!!!!! How am I going to put all this back together with you moving the screws ??????? Wah, wah, wah !!! Customers are strange, they bring you a mess and blame you for it !!!! I agree, you fixed what the problem was and that's all you do !!! On to the next job !!!!!! 😃😸💯👍👍
When I worked in the city fleet, we fixed it. Many times between aftermarket installs and/or other city shops in our fleet, we fixed them. No comebacks are the best! Good one Mr. O, nice to see Mrs. O also.
Hey Eric, Nissan Tech here. Super common failure of those brake switches across all models. That specific one you are working on should’ve had a recall done where we replace the switch and install what I can only describe as a condom over the switch 😂 and fold the top over itself and tape it to loom. The bottom that contacts the bracket gets rolled to form a seal. It is a very janky and ugly looking fix that still fails after the recall. Anyway love the videos!
Looing at the wiring butchery and scattered screws I doubt the pretty bits will ever go back together properly. You converted a dead hulk into a usable car. Job done....return to sender.
You are 100% correct about people and how they always seem to try and swindle you for free work or that you "created" an issue that was never there... I've dealt with that far too many times and I deal with it in the exact same fashion you do! Another great video in the books! Love the content, keep it going!
I totally understand where you are coming from. I had "customers" bring in stereos in pieces and wanted them repaired. Always a "fun" time. It was especially gratifying when a "customer" brought in a board and wanted me to replace some parts he also brought in. Then he would come back and complain it didn't fix it because the video on UA-cam said it would, but wouldn't want to pay to have it diagnosed and repaired. Glad I am now retired!
When the customers car comes in as in many pieces, I do exactly the same thing you do as a locksmith I fix the problems that I had to address and the problems it’s not mine to address. I give it back to them and let them put it together the best way to deal with it. I don’t beat you up on this at all. It’s the perfect thing to do.😊
Those CR2032 can register 3v but still put out (close to) zero current - so a fresh one may have fixed the remote not working. Commenting for the algorithm tbh. Thanks for the videos Mr O. Stay safe out there.
I was thinking the same -- between years in automotive, and then left automotive for computer engineering where CR2032s are very common... I replace anything under 3 volts (out of circuit/no load).
100% with you. Exactly how you say happened...you'll be the nice guy and also put the rest back together, and then they come back with "now this doesn't work and you touched it". Lesson learned, never again.
You say theres a lot of people out there smarter than you, are they as honest as you when it comes to this work though? Yes, you're in my opinion one of the best diagnostic mechanics out there, but you're also honest when it comes to the work and what stuff needs, you dont just part cannon every issue like others.
Might not be dead just not enough voltage to perform the function in the device. Some things can run on less like little led bulbs in keychain / bike lights... pretty much obsolete now.
Great job Eric! I’m a DYIer. I’d never drop a car off in that condition! I also try to clean inside and out before drop off. You don’t need to deal with dirt if possible.
Eric, I agree with you, I was a machine tool service engineer, and I would go in to repair what they wanted fixed and there would be other things torn apart, I just fixed what they wanted and left the rest for them, I didn't tear it apart and not putting someone else's mess back together. Enjoy your videos.
I had the same problem with my nissan and when I finally got it started my friend that was following my said my brake lights was not coming on every time I hit the brake so I replaced the switch no problem starting since then. Great video. Keep up the great job. I really enjoy your videos.
A lucky brake (break) by being observant. Cleaning up Bob’s uncle’s cousins rats nest. Fix only the issue of no start, the rest is left to the creator of the rats nest.
I have had customers try to save a few bucks fixing themselves. I am right there with you Eric. They made the mess, they can fix it themselves. We once had a customer tear down removing all sorts of screws, panels, etc. We walk in and they hand us a box of parts, screws, etc. They even had a service contract and still did it. We voided the service contract and deemed the machine unrepairable due to customer neglect. When you said to be savvy with the general public because many of them are bad news, I totally agree. Reminds me of my son's old Nissan. It had a bad injector and was intermittently missing. I took it to an independent mechanic and he agreed, bad injector. He was going to charge 15 minutes labor and the injector. One bolt, one connector, I gave the ok ( afterall he confirmed my diagnosis). The car sat in his lot overnight, the next morning he goes to start it and the timing chain gave out at random. You should have seen the look of fear in his face when I came over. I told him bad luck happens to everyone, I know you didn't do it. The relief on his face was priceless.
My ancient mother always wanted to help me fix things around her house. "How long will it take you" she'd ask. I'd tell her "Half an hour if you go away and just let me do it. An hour and a half if you want to watch and ask questions. Three hours if you want to help."
Had a friend want $150 off to help me on a job for him. He said he had worked for years in a mechanic shop. This job I already gave him a 150% off, he cost me so much more time and stress than if i was by myself. Never EVER again.
@@JohnnyTalia Yes in dee dee. My family _knows_ this. I debug their software problems with their computers. They know to give me only a short terse description, and then get out of my way. Leave me completely alone. Soon enough I will get it done. Do NOT tell me what is wrong. If you _know_ what is wrong then fix it yourself.
Nailed it. I was sitting wondering "is he going to try to sort that mess out and put it back together". Happy to see you didn't and i have a pretty good idea of the a-holes you have run across over the years. In fact, i was kind of surprised you even started after seeing that mess. Drop it off and not a word said about it being ripped apart by some dolt. "here, you fix it now"
So agree with the commenters about fixing the main problem, leaving the rest apart. However, I did have a 68 Firebird that I was trying to find an issue with. I gave up and took it to local shop. I told them what I did, what I diagnosed, and requested they put it back as part of the repair. They agreed, and I paid the shop labor for the hour or so. But thats COMMON SENSE...which we have lost it seems. Great video! Love Mrs.O's nails! Lucky guy u!!
Nissan had a recall on brake switches on some of their models, Sentra included, but all their models were affected by bad brake switches. quickest way to tell is if it won't start, look at the brake lights, they'll be off. These switches failed just as yours did. sometimes work as they should, other times very intermittently, not work at all. Love your videos, esp when Mrs O is in them.
Yeah, that what I wondering with this video. I was waiting for him to pull up the "RECALL" about sentras and replacing there stop lamp switch When we do it at the dealer. With replace the switch and also added a grommet. I think the recall is NTB21-026
We have a 2012 Ford Fusion that lost its response to the key fob. The dealer wanted a stupid price to find out why so we just opted to use the key pad on the door and saved us a bunch of money. It works just fine doing it that way.
I just fired the parts cannon and shot a brake light switch on my daughters 2018 Nissan pathfinder 140,000 miles ,intermittent no crank no start, a month now so far so good ,must be a Nissan thing. But she was good at explaining if she tried it again it did start and only happened every now and then.
I agree with you 100% Eric. I won't even offer for a fee to my customers to put it back together because of exactly what you said about the complaints of it rattles ect
Glad that somebody else pointed out the stop lamp switch recall, it came out while I was still working for Nissan. I don't recall having one 'no start' during the period, though. Thanks for the video.
Definitely with you on this one, if you got it running, the rest of the mess is the customer's responsibility to put back together. Love the bow chicka wow wow!!!
I worked installing microwave internet and when it came to fiddling with RV interior walls and components in order to get our cabling into the unit (because we weren't allowed to drill them, for exactly the reasons you just described "oh now there's water in this area, you guys need to come fix it") we had them do any and all drilling they wanted done because we weren't repayng visits to come do other trade work for hours afterwards. You have the right policy. If they can get an inch to say you broke something they'll take a mile. Don't trust users, or general consumers. They're always out for free work.
i did refrigeration grocery store repair for 35 years people used to think i was the smartest tech at hussmann refrigeration .one of the reasons was i was very lucky. the unit i was working on would be broken when i came on the job site. much easier to repair when its broken
Eric ! You just STOLE my BREAD AND BUTTER ! I 'LOVE' buying crap like this! Basket cases are always a challenge and soooo entertaining IF you get them at the 'right' price... Over the years, I've seen a lot of electronics equipment that have suffered the same fate. Ya' just got to go back to basics and PAY ATTENTION ! Fun stuff 😁😜🙃
@@boopunn Ahh yes ... But there is also one more consideration - Working on crap like this is FUN - As LONG as you don't have to ! Especially if you don't have to get it running by morning to go to work in it !!!! OR you have a bad water pump to change and it is 20 degrees outside and SNOWING !!! (Been there- Done that too) NO FUN...
The "little dongers", I shall use this definition of parts and switches next time I am working on one of my vehicles, especially in front of my granddaughter! Much more "family friendly" than her father or I have used. Thanks so very much for the educational / entertainment on your channel as well as a bonus higher vocabulary level for myself and family. Been retired from the trade a few years now but I still feel your frustration from someone else that attempted a repair.
Two observations: The tap that was pinching the wire may have caused a low resistance path to ground. By removing it, the path was opened. That's why the switch started working. Also, the key fob may need the full 3.2 volts from the CR-2032. I've had my Ford Key fobs quit working at 3.0 volts
@@SouthMainAuto I looked at the video again, and you're correct. There is not another wire connected to the scotch lock, therefore it should not load the node. But I wonder why was it originally placed there? As for the battery, I measure 3.276 volts on a new Energizer CR-2032 battery in spite of the fact that is says 3.0 volts on the packaging. I really enjoy your videos. Thank you for continuing to do them.
Reminds me of the autozone meme where they show a picture of a car that has burst into flames with the caption “when you put 2WD wipers on a 4WD car” 😂
That conversation with Mrs O was entertaining. I definitely see your point. This is probably why you don't do a free undercarriage restoration on all the crusty ones we've seen.
No way I would put that car back together! You're absolutely right. You may be dealing with a good person, maybe dealing with a not good person, but either way people get picky about their cars and there's no way that one's coming out right if you put it all back together . Some little something isn't going to be right that they probably broke and you're going to be responsible. I know about cars I've tried to help people with their cars and I have also worked in retail situations where I sell parts. Car parts and electronic parts, and I'm not helping them beyond a certain point. The other one I really like is "I want to buy your ratcheting crimper but I need you to show me how it works." So you do one crimp and they go "I'm not sure I quite get it"... 🤣🤣🤣
Totally agree with only putting back together what you took apart, unless it was discussed and agreed upon beforehand. You would probably get the person that says "why did you put it back together? I wasn't done working on it yet!"
Eric: "I'm not smart" Fixes all of these problems on customer's cars. Logical diagnostic approach. Likes ice cream. Put a ring on Mrs O. Eric, we're not believing you, buddy. You ARE smart!
You and the lady are both right. If it comes apart there should be no expectation to put it together, but it also doesn't hurt to call up the customer and confirm how they're getting the car back. And yes there should be a premium on the labour unless they had every screw and fastener labeled and right against the part.
Great video, Eric. I appreciate the effort you make to get a good view / camera angle for us. And I give you extra kudos for working in those cramped foot well spaces below the dashboards. I dread every time I have to work under my dash.
For little cuts on wire like that, I like using clear nail polish. No mess like liquid electrical tape, and nail polish dries pretty quickly, keeps out corrosion, and looks good
I don't know for sure, but I would recommend swapping batteries in key fobs, or at least with a known good battery. A "classic 2032" lithium battery is rated at 3V. As such, it usually "volt-checks" with DMM ABOVE 3V. So, ANY reading below 3V means it's pretty close to death. That could be a reason why fob did not work (not a guarantee, of course)-a depleted battery. Li-ion batteries are quite finicky. Thanks Mr. O. for all you do!
It's amazing how much simpler and less frustrating these ludicrously over-engineered products make our lives. I turn the key on my '94 Celica and it starts. Sometimes my feet are even outside the door!
I believe every bit of what you say about people blaming you for issues after the fact. "Ever since you worked on it ..."
I did in fact have a clock spring snap on a Subaru while getting my pads and rotors done. I guess they last 17 years and 37 days 😂
Except sometimes it is the mechanics fault. Once had to get a coilpack installed and you had to remove the upper intake. The mechanic left the throttle cable return spring off. Plus he threw away all the shields. like the one that went over the throttle cable bracket to keep things from jamming it.
Yep, good call on not putting the customer's rat nest back.
@cojones8518 so that's an obviously different situation, isn't it?
Hello Eric Scotch Locks where is the problem going to be? Good observation. My bet is old switch good, it just got moved a little out of correct positioning when you guessed it, The Scotch Lock was used. Good video and yes send them back disassembled unless they are paying g for and requesting you to reassemble with no guaranty on reassembly issues. Stay as far away from those problems as you can.
Last time I had one of my cars in pieces and had to take it in for a different repair, they called and asked if I wanted it put back together. I told them no since i was still working on the initial issue I had with it - they did the repair I asked for, so I was beyond happy with their service. To my shock, when they fixed the item in question, they saw what was wrong with it before and left me a detailed note on how to fix it so that it wouldn't do it again. I still refer people to them gladly.
I would put them on speed dial.
That is super cool !!!
Your the best on UA-cam Eric, love you all 👍
That's how I operate at my shop. Unfortunately, management doesn't always forward the message.
I'm with ya Eric. It comes in tore up and broke, it goes out tore up and fixed..
Do what you are payed for. No more, no less.
@@larswilms8275 THE owner left the mess NOT yours to clean up unless he pays you
True dat! Fix the reported problem, if they want the car fully restored to factory then they can send it to a restoration specialist.
Depends on what the customer pays for.
Im sure most people would be happy putting it back together themselves rather than paying shop rate for it. Its working, its a good day.
Nissan master tech here. Great job finding that problem. There’s a recall for those stop lamp switches on those Sentras. Nissan says the stop lamp switch tends to open circuit due to excessive silicon dioxide buildup. The “fix” is to install a new switch inside a rubber boot and wrap it with electrical tape. Looks like a giant ball of electrical tape in the end. It’s kinda funny.
I worked at nissan and this recall “fix” looks worse than what a random person repair would look like. I can’t believe that the repair looks like that when done correctly.
being in an independent shop. even after the recall, i have replaced numerous brake switches and have seen the taped up mess they do. Just a poor switch design
@@lactose101 wow!, that's amazing. That sounds like a mess and it wouldn't keep out moisture unless the switch housing is sealed from the factory. You still have the plunger hole.
I remember having to perform the recall on these sentras in the service lane and it was crazy how much electrical tape went into that recall.
Some guys wouldn’t even work on it after seeing the car all apart. I give you credit, as always. Good stuff
If that Nissan Nightmare flat-bed'd into my bay I'd say HAVE A NICE DAY LADY & kick that thing out the moment I saw the scotch's. This car reminded me of that 80's truck where Eric basically had to re-wire the entire power-distribution block in the engine bay without a friggin' wiring diagram.. that was painful but I think it was for a kid who's father had passed away 😓
I agree with you, Mr. O. Too many people will say now it makes this noise or this doesn't work since you put it back together. I applaud Mrs. O for saying what the customer will say to her: "What didn't you put it back together?" Always a pleasure watching you diagnose a problem and as always, it's a pleasure to see an appearance of Mrs. O.
Not sure I woulda fiddled that long with it. I think you did that for our benefit. As always, a pleasure.
He was trying to make sure it wasn't a wire or a connection maybe. If you jump the gun too quick and put in a new one.. just to realize that it's still having the same issue; that's not good. It's worth it to spend a little time to zero in on the exact issue.... But at the same time, I agree. lol.. I didn't fiddle with it that long either- I pulled my switch out and took it all apart and seen that the little trace inside had worn all the way through it. New switch was actually very cheap.
This is the second car Eric has worked on with no start due to the brake light switch.
You probably work for that chevy dealership,he said diagd that womans car with the flasher issue..
@@steveo4749 I had the same issue with my 2002 Acura MDX.. It would start, but it just wouldn't shift into gear.. Luckily it had a little push pin bypass so I could still get it home. I did a little diag on it: new brake switch fixed it.
Mr. O. I am Edward and I have an older automobile shop (work on later model vehicles, and do conversions and retros along with some racing stuff) in Connecticut and yes, I have all the wonderful accreditations and certifications and all that other blah blah blah but if I had to take any vehicle to anybody that’s on the Internet and we know there are a bunch of them, the only place that I would take my vehicle is to your shop and that’s the Gods honest truth! I’m an engineer along with being a fully certified auto and diesel repair tech, but you are very proficient and excellent in your field so I just wanted to put that out there that you are in very high regard in my book. Having a wonderful wife like Mrs. O I think puts some alfalfa in your oats.. meaning; she makes you a happy man and that’s always very good to have as well!
You and Vanessa have an excellent family and you should consider yourself extremely lucky!
Best regards; Edward H. in Madison, Connecticut
Whenever Erik calls the previous installer a “friggety frig hole” you know it’s about to get real
😅😅😅
@@paulbinmo Yepper-as one man likes to say-This could get Western in a hurry!!
I love how Mrs O rolls with you on the banter.
As a customer of a dealership AND a local independent mechanic, AND a manufacturing mechanic/electrician/troubleshooter for 40+ years. I would…1. Tell the mechanic exactly what I had already done to try to diagnose/repair the problem. Including any aftermarket add-ons I had installed. 2. Explain that I left all the jiggly bits
removed so that he wouldn’t have to remove them again himself. 3. Would have removed the bits from the vehicle, or at least bag them and get them out of his way. 4. Specifically tell him I didn’t expect him to reinstall them. 5. Thank him profusely, pay him, and thank him again!
Did exactly that when I needed a heater core, evaporator & expansion valve. I got it disassembled as far as I could and still drive it to the shop. Bagged and tagged everything and took it out of the vehicle. Advised my mechanic I'd reassemble at home.
Side benefit was I saved a lot of $'s in disassembly/reassembly labor.
@@paulsullivan6392 Gee if you did all that you might as well of installed the heater core, evaporator, and expansion valve yourself and then just had the mechanic charge the A/C system. Just getting to all that stuff is half the battle, at least the first two. Unless i have misunderstood what you are saying. I won't get into the DIY of using these aftermarket "refrigerant" cans that are sold.
some don't know what they had done
In my 57 years on this rock, it has been my experience that the guys that say they *aren't* the best at something (like our humble Mr. O says) really *are* the best.
Thanks for the video, Mr. O.
If you don't think you know it all, there's still room to learn. 😊 78, same rock.
Eric you are the most common sense and knowledgeable guy I’ve ever watched.
As I tell my wife, it’s not cynicism it’s 25 years of experience. In other words, with age and experience comes wisdom… often confused by friggity frigs as cynicism.
Good job.
Some of his cattle are horribly thin old animals. Sin=O/H Cos=A/H Tan=O/A
"There are lots of people smarter than you, Eric?" Yes, but can they figure out what the problem is? Remember, you are some people's last hope! GREAT VIDEO!
I feel your pain Eric. I’ve been a flooring installer for about thirty years. I once replaced a damaged board in a kitchen, where the customer dropped a soup can, only to have them later complain that they have had a squeak in their hallway ever since I did the repair. Dealing with the public is a treat.
Since Ya..... Since you replaced my flooring, My roof leaks and my garage door won t open !!!
I custom build PC desktop computers from components. I learned early on to get the customer to sign a statement that they are hiring me to _choose_ the components for them AND any hardware failure is the problem of the manufacturer (giving them the various manufacturers' warranties) AND that I am delivering bare naked hardware with no software at all. My first few builds the customers paid and thought that bought endless time as a help-line from me including debugging software. I discuss this issue at length before I accept the build contract. I lose only a few customers. Like Eric O I have built enough of a repeat clientele that I have no need for the trouble makers.
But…….. The kitchen bone is connected to the dining room bone, the dining room bone is connected to the hallway bone. Therefore the repair travels directly to the hallway. That is how that works.
No way you should be responsible for reinstalling all that spaghetti. Great as always, Eric
😂
I'm a red seal mechanic working for 45 years plus Automotive. And had work with my mom and dad for 20 years on and off and work for other people for many years. And it would have been an absolute pleasure to work with a man like you with your attitude and perspective and troubleshooting abilities it is amazing to find and see a man who's got Compassionate Heart and a real nose for problems and really really loves that wife of his!! All the best from Surrey BC Canada
Another Emmy award winning SMA video! Brake on, Brake off……
Yes, Mr Miyagi.
"you gotta be careful dealing with the general public" no truer words have ever been said. And I 100% agree.
A little tip about fob batteries: A new battery starts out with about 3.25 to 3.29 volts. I have found that the fobs don't work when the voltage drops to below 3 volts, say 2.9 volts. I check the batteries with a DVOM meter.
Every shop should be able to do what you do - the fact is that not even the dealer can do what you do.... You da man !!
What makes SMA, PHAD, Scanner guy, and Super Mario guy exceptional is attention to detail and critical observation skills.
@@timothycooney986 Do you mind if I ask who PHAD and Super Mario guy are?
@@johnkirkland3066PHAD is Pine Hollow Auto Diagnostic and Super Mario Automotive. Both are on UA-cam.
@@johnkirkland3066 PHAD is Pine Hollow Auto Diagnostics, aka Ivan. Don't know the Super Mario guy.
the observation thing is so important. it is very easy to overlook details and go far down the wrong path.
Let's not forget Matt over at Schrodinger's Box who uses science via the scientific method to diagnose any automotive problems. Many don't like him because he tells it like it is or simply jealousy. When it comes to electrical diagnostics I would place Matt against anyone. Just saying...
Good diagnosis, excellent sleuthing for the cause. Be sure you didn't move any of the screws / bolts. I had them here and now they aren't where I put them - you moved it !!!!!! How am I going to put all this back together with you moving the screws ??????? Wah, wah, wah !!! Customers are strange, they bring you a mess and blame you for it !!!! I agree, you fixed what the problem was and that's all you do !!! On to the next job !!!!!! 😃😸💯👍👍
Always good when Mrs O makes an appearance!
The main reason I watch these SMA videos is to see Eric and Vanessa talk to each other. (Also, I _love_ seeing Eric O wield a wrench.)
When I worked in the city fleet, we fixed it. Many times between aftermarket installs and/or other city shops in our fleet, we fixed them. No comebacks are the best!
Good one Mr. O, nice to see Mrs. O also.
Hey Eric, Nissan Tech here. Super common failure of those brake switches across all models. That specific one you are working on should’ve had a recall done where we replace the switch and install what I can only describe as a condom over the switch 😂 and fold the top over itself and tape it to loom. The bottom that contacts the bracket gets rolled to form a seal. It is a very janky and ugly looking fix that still fails after the recall. Anyway love the videos!
Same thing happened to my neighbor and Nissan fixed it for free
Looing at the wiring butchery and scattered screws I doubt the pretty bits will ever go back together properly. You converted a dead hulk into a usable car. Job done....return to sender.
You are 100% correct about people and how they always seem to try and swindle you for free work or that you "created" an issue that was never there... I've dealt with that far too many times and I deal with it in the exact same fashion you do! Another great video in the books! Love the content, keep it going!
I totally understand where you are coming from. I had "customers" bring in stereos in pieces and wanted them repaired. Always a "fun" time. It was especially gratifying when a "customer" brought in a board and wanted me to replace some parts he also brought in. Then he would come back and complain it didn't fix it because the video on UA-cam said it would, but wouldn't want to pay to have it diagnosed and repaired. Glad I am now retired!
When the customers car comes in as in many pieces, I do exactly the same thing you do as a locksmith I fix the problems that I had to address and the problems it’s not mine to address. I give it back to them and let them put it together the best way to deal with it. I don’t beat you up on this at all. It’s the perfect thing to do.😊
You got a lot of common sense which makes for a good mechanic! Keep up the good work! In my opinion
Those CR2032 can register 3v but still put out (close to) zero current - so a fresh one may have fixed the remote not working. Commenting for the algorithm tbh. Thanks for the videos Mr O. Stay safe out there.
I was thinking the same -- between years in automotive, and then left automotive for computer engineering where CR2032s are very common... I replace anything under 3 volts (out of circuit/no load).
100% with you. Exactly how you say happened...you'll be the nice guy and also put the rest back together, and then they come back with "now this doesn't work and you touched it". Lesson learned, never again.
I come for the knowledge, I stay for the comedy. Another great video. And some good practical advice about dealing with people.
ERIC, 47 years doing the same thing. I agree 110%
Changing out brake switches.. for 47 years?
@@calholli That, and much much more!
I'd take one look at that and call the customer to ask them if they want me to have the car towed over to Wilberts.
Thank you, Eric, once again. I always enjoy learning "anything" about key fobs (since I know absolutely nothing about them).
Not only just fix the problem you are spot on to refuse to put it back together.
You say theres a lot of people out there smarter than you, are they as honest as you when it comes to this work though? Yes, you're in my opinion one of the best diagnostic mechanics out there, but you're also honest when it comes to the work and what stuff needs, you dont just part cannon every issue like others.
We get aircraft coming in like that. Fix the fault and let the owner fix their mess. You're spot on with your opinion about owners.
Nice work Eric!!!! Prefect example of not jumping to conclusions and stepping back and looking at the little clues
You're a brave man for taking on an intermittent problem on a failed DIY!
Dude, the hanging' crap is always their issue damn it!!!!!! Life is too damn short! Well done my friend, as always.
I believe those 2032's are like car batteries. When they are fresh, they show about 3.28 volts. Dead, they show just below 3, 2.9 volts, etc.
Might not be dead just not enough voltage to perform the function in the device. Some things can run on less like little led bulbs in keychain / bike lights... pretty much obsolete now.
I can attest to that. My Mercedes keyFOBs are the same. New (~3.2V), no issue. At less than 2.97V, the car likes to tell me "Replace Key Batteries"
If you were to monitor that 2.9v and presses a button you will see it drop to almost 0v. That is what they do.
Always buy in 10packs
Put a 400 ohm resistor load on it for 2 seconds, measure voltage, greater than 2.6V is at least 15% left. If you use a HF DMM it’ll be too slow.
Great job Eric! I’m a DYIer. I’d never drop a car off in that condition! I also try to clean inside and out before drop off. You don’t need to deal with dirt if possible.
Man I feel you on the cynicism . I wish I didn’t feel that way towards people but most of the time they just reinforce it
I learned in retail years ago that customers are idiots.
Felt this way for 20 years and will for another 20+ I'm sure.
It's called cynicism, and I've developed more than my share over decades of dealing with people.
@@Larry-sf9nb ahhhh thank you! I couldn’t think of the word at the time
Eric, I agree with you, I was a machine tool service engineer, and I would go in to repair what they wanted fixed and there would be other things torn apart, I just fixed what they wanted and left the rest for them, I didn't tear it apart and not putting someone else's mess back together. Enjoy your videos.
Eric, your SPOT ON! They tore it apart, they can put it back together.
I had the same problem with my nissan and when I finally got it started my friend that was following my said my brake lights was not coming on every time I hit the brake so I replaced the switch no problem starting since then. Great video. Keep up the great job. I really enjoy your videos.
I feel your pain. If it comes in torn apart. It leaves torn apart when I'm done fixing whatever the issue was in the first place.
Cant believe how fast and focused you were finding the fault.
I can only wish I were like you.
Your experience and focus are a wonder sir!
A lucky brake (break) by being observant. Cleaning up Bob’s uncle’s cousins rats nest. Fix only the issue of no start, the rest is left to the creator of the rats nest.
I go to my cousins shop . Very good mechanic and cheap. Dropping my tyranny and changing throwout bearing and clutch for $300 now.
👍🏽
Good and cheap doesn't belong in same sentence . Lol@@MichaelRitchie-yl6jq
Agreed because something might be broken then here comes the blame game been through it to many time especially with wiring .
I have had customers try to save a few bucks fixing themselves. I am right there with you Eric. They made the mess, they can fix it themselves. We once had a customer tear down removing all sorts of screws, panels, etc. We walk in and they hand us a box of parts, screws, etc. They even had a service contract and still did it. We voided the service contract and deemed the machine unrepairable due to customer neglect. When you said to be savvy with the general public because many of them are bad news, I totally agree.
Reminds me of my son's old Nissan. It had a bad injector and was intermittently missing. I took it to an independent mechanic and he agreed, bad injector. He was going to charge 15 minutes labor and the injector. One bolt, one connector, I gave the ok ( afterall he confirmed my diagnosis). The car sat in his lot overnight, the next morning he goes to start it and the timing chain gave out at random. You should have seen the look of fear in his face when I came over. I told him bad luck happens to everyone, I know you didn't do it. The relief on his face was priceless.
I was a home impreovement contractor. My favorite customer request was "how much if I help you?" My response? "I charge triple for that."
My ancient mother always wanted to help me fix things around her house. "How long will it take you" she'd ask. I'd tell her "Half an hour if you go away and just let me do it. An hour and a half if you want to watch and ask questions. Three hours if you want to help."
Lol!
Had a friend want $150 off to help me on a job for him. He said he had worked for years in a mechanic shop. This job I already gave him a 150% off, he cost me so much more time and stress than if i was by myself. Never EVER again.
@@JohnnyTalia Yes in dee dee. My family _knows_ this. I debug their software problems with their computers. They know to give me only a short terse description, and then get out of my way. Leave me completely alone. Soon enough I will get it done. Do NOT tell me what is wrong. If you _know_ what is wrong then fix it yourself.
Nailed it. I was sitting wondering "is he going to try to sort that mess out and put it back together". Happy to see you didn't and i have a pretty good idea of the a-holes you have run across over the years. In fact, i was kind of surprised you even started after seeing that mess. Drop it off and not a word said about it being ripped apart by some dolt. "here, you fix it now"
I always had a hard time remembering what I tore apart, much less worry about somebody else s mess.
So agree with the commenters about fixing the main problem, leaving the rest apart. However, I did have a 68 Firebird that I was trying to find an issue with. I gave up and took it to local shop. I told them what I did, what I diagnosed, and requested they put it back as part of the repair. They agreed, and I paid the shop labor for the hour or so. But thats COMMON SENSE...which we have lost it seems. Great video! Love Mrs.O's nails! Lucky guy u!!
Nissan had a recall on brake switches on some of their models, Sentra included, but all their models were affected by bad brake switches. quickest way to tell is if it won't start, look at the brake lights, they'll be off. These switches failed just as yours did. sometimes work as they should, other times very intermittently, not work at all. Love your videos, esp when Mrs O is in them.
Yeah, that what I wondering with this video. I was waiting for him to pull up the "RECALL" about sentras and replacing there stop lamp switch
When we do it at the dealer. With replace the switch and also added a grommet. I think the recall is
NTB21-026
We have a 2012 Ford Fusion that lost its response to the key fob. The dealer wanted a stupid price to find out why so we just opted to use the key pad on the door and saved us a bunch of money. It works just fine doing it that way.
"People Are Strange" - Jim Morrison and Eric O
Your profile pic is exhibit A
@@calholli it's not your fault that your dad left!
I just fired the parts cannon and shot a brake light switch on my daughters 2018 Nissan pathfinder 140,000 miles ,intermittent no crank no start, a month now so far so good ,must be a Nissan thing. But she was good at explaining if she tried it again it did start and only happened every now and then.
@@donniev8181 I appreciate that brother.. I knew milk wasn't that important
I love your attitude Eric about leaving the rest of the mess!! I agree 100%.
HI Eric i have a shop for 38 years in montreal canada and i know what you mean. keep up the amazing work. love the content
Very relaxing and entertaining video. I like watching an artist do their thing.
I agree with you 100% Eric. I won't even offer for a fee to my customers to put it back together because of exactly what you said about the complaints of it rattles ect
Glad that somebody else pointed out the stop lamp switch recall, it came out while I was still working for Nissan. I don't recall having one 'no start' during the period, though. Thanks for the video.
Definitely with you on this one, if you got it running, the rest of the mess is the customer's responsibility to put back together. Love the bow chicka wow wow!!!
I don’t blame you for not putting it back together. Great job! Good to see Mrs O
Ya went full Mr. Miyagi there for a minute - "Brake On, Brake Off"
This one was a great one, Thank You Sir. I own and run a shop and thats exactly how i feel and most dont get it and im talking about the entire video
I worked installing microwave internet and when it came to fiddling with RV interior walls and components in order to get our cabling into the unit (because we weren't allowed to drill them, for exactly the reasons you just described "oh now there's water in this area, you guys need to come fix it") we had them do any and all drilling they wanted done because we weren't repayng visits to come do other trade work for hours afterwards. You have the right policy. If they can get an inch to say you broke something they'll take a mile. Don't trust users, or general consumers. They're always out for free work.
You are smart and you explain very well how you found out what is wrong and then you fix what's wrong
Scotch locks and aftermarket remote starters in customers' cars have supported my racing habit for the years.
They paid my mortgage off 😅👍🏼
corrosion collectors
i did refrigeration grocery store repair for 35 years people used to think i was the smartest tech at hussmann refrigeration .one of the reasons was i was very lucky. the unit i was working on would be broken when i came on the job site. much easier to repair when its broken
Eric ! You just STOLE my BREAD AND BUTTER ! I 'LOVE' buying crap like this! Basket cases are always a challenge and soooo entertaining IF you get them at the 'right' price... Over the years, I've seen a lot of electronics equipment that have suffered the same fate. Ya' just got to go back to basics and PAY ATTENTION ! Fun stuff 😁😜🙃
Yes I buy these kind of cars often Cheap.
@@boopunn Ahh yes ... But there is also one more consideration - Working on crap like this is FUN - As LONG as you don't have to ! Especially if you don't have to get it running by morning to go to work in it !!!! OR you have a bad water pump to change and it is 20 degrees outside and SNOWING !!! (Been there- Done that too) NO FUN...
The "little dongers", I shall use this definition of parts and switches next time I am working on one of my vehicles, especially in front of my granddaughter! Much more "family friendly" than her father or I have used. Thanks so very much for the educational / entertainment on your channel as well as a bonus higher vocabulary level for myself and family. Been retired from the trade a few years now but I still feel your frustration from someone else that attempted a repair.
Two observations: The tap that was pinching the wire may have caused a low resistance path to ground. By removing it, the path was opened. That's why the switch started working. Also, the key fob may need the full 3.2 volts from the CR-2032. I've had my Ford Key fobs quit working at 3.0 volts
Explain to me how a scotch lock on a wire can make a short to ground when it's not attached to anything. That doesn't even make sense 🤷♂️
@@SouthMainAuto I looked at the video again, and you're correct. There is not another wire connected to the scotch lock, therefore it should not load the node. But I wonder why was it originally placed there? As for the battery, I measure 3.276 volts on a new Energizer CR-2032 battery in spite of the fact that is says 3.0 volts on the packaging. I really enjoy your videos. Thank you for continuing to do them.
Totally agree with you Eric, not your problem to put bit and pieces back together. Another great video. Thanks and cheers fro Australia
32:45 best part of this vid and you are right Mr. O do not touch the torn apart mess
Reminds me of the autozone meme where they show a picture of a car that has burst into flames with the caption “when you put 2WD wipers on a 4WD car” 😂
Caption show have read"When you put Dorman parts on your Vehicle"😅😅😅
@@2nickles647 😂
I drive a 64 and 65 Corvair...and fix them myself w help from a friend...but love your show!
We called them basket cases many years ago. Uncle ernie tried to fix it. Love your videos.
Love your videos Mr.Eric. They're both entertaining and informative.
Keep doing what you do!
Thanks for adding the “……and girls” comment at the beginning. I’m sure you have lots of female fans as well that come here for content 😊
That conversation with Mrs O was entertaining. I definitely see your point. This is probably why you don't do a free undercarriage restoration on all the crusty ones we've seen.
No way I would put that car back together! You're absolutely right. You may be dealing with a good person, maybe dealing with a not good person, but either way people get picky about their cars and there's no way that one's coming out right if you put it all back together . Some little something isn't going to be right that they probably broke and you're going to be responsible. I know about cars I've tried to help people with their cars and I have also worked in retail situations where I sell parts. Car parts and electronic parts, and I'm not helping them beyond a certain point. The other one I really like is "I want to buy your ratcheting crimper but I need you to show me how it works." So you do one crimp and they go "I'm not sure I quite get it"... 🤣🤣🤣
Totally agree with only putting back together what you took apart, unless it was discussed and agreed upon beforehand. You would probably get the person that says "why did you put it back together? I wasn't done working on it yet!"
Eric: "I'm not smart"
Fixes all of these problems on customer's cars. Logical diagnostic approach. Likes ice cream. Put a ring on Mrs O.
Eric, we're not believing you, buddy. You ARE smart!
smartest fella I've seen on YT
Just get it running. Screws and parts will be missing and who know what. Not your problem. Thanks for teaching us Mr. O. God bless.
I'm with Eric, It come in that way and it's going out that way! Now if they want it put back together, new ball game!
You and the lady are both right. If it comes apart there should be no expectation to put it together, but it also doesn't hurt to call up the customer and confirm how they're getting the car back. And yes there should be a premium on the labour unless they had every screw and fastener labeled and right against the part.
You are a better man than I.because I would take one look at that and say return after its back to stock.I know my limitations.
Great video, Eric. I appreciate the effort you make to get a good view / camera angle for us. And I give you extra kudos for working in those cramped foot well spaces below the dashboards. I dread every time I have to work under my dash.
For little cuts on wire like that, I like using clear nail polish. No mess like liquid electrical tape, and nail polish dries pretty quickly, keeps out corrosion, and looks good
I dont know but Mrs. O. might get a little upset if her Cherry Red nail polish is always empty. ;-)
@@ronaldbrosius7488 doesn't seem like it would be flexible. If the wire bends doesn't the enamel crack and/or fall off?
I keep a bottle in my shop
Um, they make this stuff called 'liquid electrical tape' just for that. No nail polish BS
I don't know for sure, but I would recommend swapping batteries in key fobs, or at least with a known good battery. A "classic 2032" lithium battery is rated at 3V. As such, it usually "volt-checks" with DMM ABOVE 3V. So, ANY reading below 3V means it's pretty close to death. That could be a reason why fob did not work (not a guarantee, of course)-a depleted battery. Li-ion batteries are quite finicky. Thanks Mr. O. for all you do!
It's amazing how much simpler and less frustrating these ludicrously over-engineered products make our lives.
I turn the key on my '94 Celica and it starts. Sometimes my feet are even outside the door!
I thought Scotty was commenting at first! 😂
Scotty incognito
I don't expect my machanic to my mess back together. He usually offers, but I generally tell him to not worry about it. Thanks for a great video.
Mrs O looking bright and breezy
Great video, very much enjoyed your take on not putting the panels and stuff together that they took apart you fixed the issue and shipped it