My car needs new lug nuts

ANSWER : As you may have already learned, the code p0017 indicates an issue with the crankshaft position sensor. This would mean that that transmission doesn’t understand the speed and can’t send the same information to the transmission. I don’t think your car needs a new engine just based on this code alone. With all the repairs that you’ve done, it’s possible that the ECM is faulty and is producing the code. I recommend having a professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, reset the codes and inspect the Check Engine Light thoroughly in order to make a proper diagnosis.

ANSWER : Hi there. What had happened is the wrong key set the security to the vehicle. This is to prevent the vehicle from starting with the wrong keys. Try removing the battery cables (+) and (-) for 13 minutes. During that time, put the original key in the ignition and turn it on. Activate everything in the car even though there is no power. Then remove the key and hook up the battery cables. The computer should have reset and reset the security. If the security is still being tripped, then I recommend seeking out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you

ANSWER : Hi there. The only thing that I could think possible is causing your problem is that something may not have been correctly installed while your son was completing this maintenance. However, if your engine was difficult to start before this service, it’s possible there are different components that are damaged that simply didn’t resolve the issue. The only way of knowing what is going on with your Trailblazer would be to have one of our mobile mechanics in your area come to your location and complete a car is hard to start inspection.

ANSWER : Hi there. Check the spark plugs and see if they are worn or burned. If the plugs are good and they have a good spark, then the engine compression could be low causing a no start situation. If the spark plugs are not emitting a spark, then the crankshaft position sensor could have failed or disconnected. Check the crankshaft position sensor wiring harness and make sure that its plugged in. Check the sensor and make sure that its not broken or damaged. If you need further assistance with your engine not starting, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

ANSWER : It is possible that the thermostat is stuck open. When this happens, the engine can run much cooler than it is intended to. Running "too cool" can effect fuel mileage, emissions, and heater output. Most modern engines operate around or above the boiling point of water – 200-225 degrees. The thermostat generally opens when the coolant reaches 190-195 degrees. Part of it’s job is to restrict coolant flow so the engine can reach those temperatures. If the thermostat is open constantly, the engine may never reach operating temperatures. Have a certified technician inspect and/or replace the thermostat.

ANSWER : The issue you are having is probably due to an intermittent fault in the starter motor itself or a deficiency in the starter electrical circuit, for example a large voltage drop due to a poor ground or a high resistance connection. These issues can be readily diagnosed and resolved on a mobile basis if you request a hard starting diagnostic. If you request that diagnostic, the responding certified mechanic will get this resolved for you promptly. Based on Toyota’s Factory Service Manual, the battery should not be disconnected if the vehicle engine is running. The battery acts as a large resistive voltage sink and consequently taking the battery out of the circuit, while the alternator is still running, can create a voltage spike on the car’s electrical system which is not good for voltage sensitive components such as the engine computer. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. Without knowing the symptoms the vehicle is having, it is difficult to say what the issue may be. If you are receiving a code from the computer related to the oxygen sensors, then the sensor(s) may be receiving a reading outside of specification. This can be because fluids are passing through the head gasket and being consumed in the engine. When this happens, the catalytic converter is forced to process contaminants it is not designed to handle. This may set off the an oxygen sensor code. In this situation you would not necessarily see or smell a leak, but you would see a decrease in fluid levels. However, there are several other causes for these sensors to read outside of of specifications. They include a bad connection, bad O2 sensor, or a bad catalytic converter. If you are worried you are being scammed, get a second opinion by contacting our service department.

ANSWER : Hi there. The ones from the dealership that are the same as the originals do have this issue. You can purchase good aftermarket ones from a tire shop or from just about any parts store. You just need to be sure that you are using solid, chrome, acorn-stye lug nuts. With these you will not have the same issue. If you would like to have someone prepare the lug nuts for you, consider YourMechanic, as a certified mechanic can come to your home or office to replace or tighten the lug nuts to the appropriate specifications.