have a 98′ Honda Civic Dx with manual transmission that’s got some sort of issue. Most of the time it runs just fine, but randoml

ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. Although the parts you have replaced are the key components, you are going to be more worried about the air intake, throttle, and idle air control valves. The idle air control valve keeps the engine running properly when you decrease speed and are at a stop. You may want to start with it, and then look to your throttle and throttle position sensor. Make sure they are not clogged or sticking from debris and build up. With a new air filter, you should have already checked it housing for any clogs or restrictions. For more help with these inspections and resolving the issue, contact our service department to schedule an appointment.

ANSWER : This would depend on what the manufacturer recommends. Many manual transmissions do take automatic transmission fluid. If your transmission has ATF in it, it is very likely that it is supposed to have that in there. If not, it is likely that the transmission would not function properly with the wrong fluid. Many manual transmissions will also take engine oil as a lubricant. The best way to know for sure is to check your owner’s manual or call your local General Motors dealership to inquire.

ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. Your symptoms point towards an issue with fuel or spark. If you just had work done on the fuel system, you may wan to have your fuel pressure tested at the engine. This will let you know that the lines, filter, and pump are all working correctly. You should also have the ignition system tested. This would mean inspecting the spark plugs to make sure they are in good condition, and making sure the plugs are receiving spark. Testing for spark is best done with a simple spark tester that is inserted into the plug’s wire. If having trouble starting, turn the key to the "On" position before starting, and let it sit. This give the fuel pump a moment to prime. If you do not hear the faint buzzing of the fuel pump priming (you may have to listen closer to the fuel tank), then you may be having issues with the pump. Only further testing will tell. For more help with testing and repairs, contact our service department to schedule an appointment.

ANSWER : Hi there. In general, Volkswagen transmissions (both automatic and manual) are typically built very well and tend to hold up for extended periods. The key with any transmission is to ensure proper service and maintenance is completed. In regards to the costs of operation, over time the automatic transmission tends to be less expensive. Modern manual transmissions also require routine service, but the most costly repair will be the clutch system; especially if you drive frequently in traffic or city, stop-and-go driving. In the end, both transmissions on these vehicles will have about equal costs of maintenance and repairs – with a slight edge going to the manual for cost-effectiveness. One thing to consider also is fuel economy. The manual transmission tends to get worse fuel economy across the board due to driving style.

ANSWER : Hello. You should be able to delete or unpair a phone by going into the settings by navigating the menus. The settings you are looking fore can likely be found in the bluetooth settings. For specific instructions you may refer to your owner’s manual or the dealership. In some cases, rebooting the head unit may be required. This can be done by holding the audio button for 5 seconds, and then confirming a reboot. If you are unable to unpair the phone I would consult a dealership if the vehicle is still under warranty.

ANSWER : Stalling can be caused by a number of issues. A vacuum leak can be a cause. If during the repairs, a vacuum line was left loose or the air intake tube was cracked/damaged. Too much air can effect the air / fuel mixture and when the idle drops when shifting out of park, the engine can stall. Other components such as the idle air control valve and throttle position sensor can cause the same issue. Even if a fault code is not present for either, they can be slow or lag in their response. If they lag enough, the engine can stall before they can compensate for the idle drop when shifting out of Park. With the proper scan tools, a certified technician can look into the stalling to determine if fault codes are present or if any of the sensors are not responding correctly. A simple code reader does not give you actual sensor values.

ANSWER : Hi there – no, a tapping valve lifter won’t cause direct damage per se, but will run less efficiently (on that cylinder) while clearance is excessive and tapping occurs. Since the lifters are adjustable, you would certainly want to have the lifters adjusted to proper clearance at any point the valve cover leaks, and needs the gasket replaced, or if any engine misfire is detected. I recommend a valve adjustment service performed by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, and perform this service – which includes a new valve cover gasket.

ANSWER : The recommended diagnostic to resolve this is a hard starting diagnostic. The work is performed by a certified mechanic right at your location. Among the first things the mechanic will check is whether required maintenance is up to date because old spark plugs, clogged fuel and air filters, and the like are potential causes of the hard starting you are describing. Other possible causes include a failing coolant temperature sensor, or bad connection to the sensor, problems with other sensors such as the cam and crankshaft position sensors, a defective fuel pump, and many other causes, all of which will be familiar to YourMechanic’s experts. With regard to the fuel pump, if the engine is not getting enough fuel it will be hard to start. If you request a hard starting diagnostic, YourMechanic will get this issue diagnosed and resolved for you.