Code P0171: System Too Lean (Bank 1) – Causes, Symptoms, and Fixes
When your check engine light illuminates and an OBD-II scan reveals Code P0171, you’re facing one of the most common yet potentially serious diagnostic trouble codes in modern vehicles. This code indicates that your engine’s Bank 1 is running too lean—a condition that demands immediate attention to prevent costly engine damage. Code P0171, officially designated […]
Code P0128: Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature – Causes, Symptoms, and Fixes
When your check engine light illuminates and an OBD-II scan reveals code P0128, your vehicle is telling you that the engine isn’t reaching its optimal operating temperature within the expected timeframe. This diagnostic trouble code specifically indicates “Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature,” a condition that affects engine efficiency, fuel economy, and long-term reliability. While […]
All You Need To Know About OBD Codes And How To Read Codes
When your check engine light illuminates, your vehicle is trying to communicate with you through a sophisticated diagnostic language – OBD codes. These alphanumeric messages serve as your car’s way of telling you exactly what’s wrong, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars in unnecessary repairs and diagnostic fees. On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) codes are standardized trouble […]
Code P0087: Fuel Rail/System Pressure Too Low – Causes, Symptoms, and Repair
Is your Check Engine Light on? Experiencing rough idling, misfires, or poor acceleration? These could be signs of trouble with your fuel system. The P0087 trouble code (Fuel Rail/System Pressure Too Low) indicates that your engine isn’t getting the proper fuel pressure, which can lead to serious performance issues or even complete engine failure. In […]
What Credit Score Is Needed to Lease a Car?
Leasing a car can be an attractive option for drivers who want lower monthly payments and the ability to drive a newer vehicle every few years. However, understanding the credit requirements is crucial before you walk into a dealership. The average credit score for customers leasing new cars in 2025 is 753, according to Experian’s […]
How to Maintain Your Vehicle’s Lighting System for Optimal Performance
Your vehicle’s lighting system is your lifeline during night driving and adverse weather conditions, yet it’s often the most neglected aspect of routine maintenance. Whether you’re navigating dark country roads in your pickup truck, operating construction equipment at dawn, or managing a fleet of commercial vehicles, properly maintained lighting systems can mean the difference between […]
How to Reset Check Engine Light: A Detailed Guide
That glowing orange check engine light on your dashboard can be one of the most frustrating automotive experiences. Whether it appeared suddenly during your morning commute or has been nagging you for weeks, the urge to simply make it disappear is understandable. However, resetting your check engine light requires more than just making the warning […]
Best State to Buy a Car: Factors to Buy Cheapest Cars
Buying a car in the wrong state could cost you an extra $3,500 or more – money that could stay in your pocket with smart planning. While most car buyers focus solely on negotiating the vehicle’s sticker price, the state where you make your purchase can dramatically impact your total out-the-door costs through sales taxes, […]
What Is A Battery Charge: A Complete Guide
Picture this: You’re ready to start your tractor for the morning’s work, but all you hear is a faint clicking sound. Or perhaps your construction excavator won’t power up despite being “charged” overnight. These scenarios highlight a crucial yet often misunderstood concept in equipment maintenance: battery charge. While many people think they understand what battery […]
What Wires Does It Take To Start A Car?
Bottom Line Up Front: Starting a car requires four critical wire categories: battery cables (power supply), starter motor wiring (high-current circuit), ignition switch wiring (control signals), and engine control wiring (sensors and fuel systems). While you might theoretically start a car with just two wires in an emergency, a properly functioning starting system relies on […]
What Is MPG? A Complete Guide to Miles Per Gallon
When you’re shopping for a new vehicle or trying to understand your current car’s performance, you’ve probably encountered the term “MPG” countless times. But what exactly does MPG mean, and why should you care about it? Understanding your vehicle’s fuel efficiency isn’t just about saving money at the pump—it’s about making informed decisions that can […]
What Happens When Your Car Is Totaled But Still Drivable?
Picture this: you’ve just been in an accident, and while your car still starts and drives, your insurance company calls to tell you it’s been “totaled.” This confusing situation leaves many drivers scratching their heads – how can a car be totaled if it’s still running? Understanding what happens next is crucial for making informed […]