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Motor 1
an hour ago
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Dallas Man Quoted $7,000 at Dealership After a Light Goes Off In His Car. Then He Takes It To His Mechanic. They Fix it for $125
In the span of a single day, a red airbag light in a late-model Honda Odyssey triggered two radically different diagnoses—one from a dealership, the other from a trusted local mechanic. The difference? $6,875 and a whole lot of trust. In a viral TikTok clip, Dallas-area Realtor Jonathan Morsinkhoff (@morsinkhoffrealestate) takes viewers through the dread and disbelief of allowing a little bit of trust for the staff staffing the repair center at his local Honda dealership. Morsinkhoff's story starts with a common, nagging warning: a red airbag light on the dashboard of his wife's 2020 Honda Odyssey. Although the van was less than three years old at the time, its odometer had surpassed the 36,000-mile mark, placing it outside the three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty window that Honda offers. Worried it might signal something serious, or that the issue might qualify as a recall, he booked an appointment at the dealership. Two days later, after carving time out of a hectic family schedule with three kids, Morsinkhoff dropped off the Odyssey at his local Honda service department at 8 a.m. Several hours later, a text message arrived with a quote: $7,000. According to the dealership, the likely culprit was a fault in the passenger seat's airbag system wiring harness, a deeply integrated component that would require removing a large portion of the vehicle's interior to access and replace. Modern vehicles, such as the Odyssey, feature complex airbag systems with sensors located in multiple areas, including driver and passenger frontal airbags, seat-mounted side airbags, and side curtain airbags. Some even include seat-integrated airbag modules , which can further complicate repairs. The dealership's message explained that their technicians were unable to pinpoint the exact fault location and thus recommended replacing the entire airbag wiring harness. That's a labor-intensive job that Morsinkhoff was told involves stripping back the trim, lifting the carpeting, and removing the seat rails to access the buried cabling. While Morsinkhoff understood that post-collision electrical gremlins could be complex—his wife's Odyssey had been in a front-corner crash about eight months earlier—something about the quote didn't sit right. So, he did what every seasoned car enthusiast recommends when faced with a four-figure service estimate: He got a second opinion. 1 Mechanic, 2 Hours, $125 The next morning, Morsinkhoff brought the Odyssey to his longtime mechanic, a shop he described as honest, experienced, and familiar with the family's vehicles. He followed his wife's advice not to say a word about the dealership's diagnosis. Let the shop run their codes, troubleshoot the issue independently, and see what they find. Less than two hours later, the phone rang. The mechanic had already pulled the airbag fault codes, identified the issue as a loose connector under the driver's seat (not the passenger's), removed and reseated the wiring harness plug, and verified that the airbag system reset cleanly. Total cost: $125. No interior teardown. No multi-day wait. No thousands in parts and labor. This is a prime example of how real-world experience and logical diagnostics often outperform the 'parts cannon' approach sometimes taken by dealership service departments. While many factory technicians are highly trained, dealership shops operate under strict time-billing and warranty reimbursement structures , which can push them toward replacing large systems rather than pinpointing the most cost-effective fix. And the loose connector? That kind of issue, which is often caused by vibration, previous repairs, or just time, is common enough to warrant basic inspection before reaching for the parts list. According to national estimates, airbag sensor repairs or harness issues typically range from $100–$600, depending on the location and severity. A $7,000 job is a statistical outlier unless a complete supplemental restraint system rebuild is involved. For Morsinkhoff, the conclusion was simple: 'This is why I don't trust anybody else with my cars.' Motor1 reached out to Morsinkhoff via phone. We'll update this article if we hear back. Now Trending 'I'm Still Not Telling People I Drive a...': Driver Buys the 'Temu Range Rover.' It Keeps McDonald's McFlurries Cold 'It Was Cheaper Than if You Bought It Normally:' Woman Says Everyone Always Asks About Her Car. She Got It Off Amazon Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Daily Mail
19-07-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
I've been a mechanic for 50 years - here are cars you should avoid
By He's the most outspoken mechanic on YouTube — and that didn't change in an interview with the Daily Mail. Scotty Kilmer, 71, has been fixing cars for 50 years. His grease-stained experience and candid rants have grown his YouTube channel ( @scottykilmer ) to more than 6.5 million followers, with viewers seeking his no-nonsense repair advice. And now, he's raising even more eyebrows. Kilmer (pictured) is warning drivers to steer clear of some of America's favorite big vehicles — calling some of them 'cr*p' for putting small engines in trucks that demand more grunt. He also thinks some of the most powerful executives are 'idiots' for ongoing parts issues. Here are the vehicles he thinks all new vehicle buyers should avoid: Toyota's big trucks 'The new Toyotas are [expletive],' Kilmer said. For years, the Japanese auto giant has built its brand image as America's most reliable car company. But Kilmer said its lineup of big trucks and SUVs — like the Tundra, Sequoia, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser — are now too large for their underpowered motors. The vehicles used to be equipped with giant V8s that Kilmer praised for their longevity. Now, they're propelled by twin-turbo V6s. Toyota made the move to get the cars in line with its goal to reduce fuel emissions in its fleet, but the V6 engines have been recalled several times because of engine debris in the motors. Kilmer alleges the move to smaller engines cuts against the brand's historic focus on reliability. He also says he's seen cheaper parts enter Toyota's supply chain since the onset of Covid-19. 'They were admitting they were no longer rejecting as many parts,' he claimed. 'They were using sub-standard components building their cars. 'Now they have cars where the plastic mirrors melt, paint peels off, and engines are blowing up.' Still, Kilmer says many other cars in Toyota's lineup remain top of the line for vehicle longevity. He praised Toyota's smaller hybrids — namely the Camry, RAV4, Prius, and Corolla — for their durability. 'Toyota really makes the best hybrid, they're still pretty indestructible,' he said. 'They're still making a lot of good stuff. But they also made decisions just to save money.' Toyota didn't immediately respond to a request for comment on Kilmer's claims. American-made Fords Last year, America's best-selling vehicle was the Ford F-Series pickup truck, with over 730,000 units sold. It's also one of the top 50 most American-made vehicles at US dealerships. Ford has consistently claimed that 80 percent of its vehicles are assembled in the United States. But Kilmer says Ford's US manufacturing is part of its problem. He even took a shot at the company's top boss, Jim Farley. 'Farley, that idiot that runs Ford, he says: "they told me people don't want to work for us because they can make more money working at a Walmart," Kilmer said, claiming employees are making $17 an hour in the factories. 'Does he think they will do a good job? Of course not! Go to a Walmart and see the idiots that work there. You think they'll work in a factory and do a good job? Of course not.' The mechanic pointed out that Ford is this year's most-recalled auto manufacturer in the US by a long shot, with the company reporting a bevy of parts issues. A new truck... no matter the maker Kilmer said he wouldn't recommend a single new pickup currently on the US market. Just like Toyota, he says other automakers have prioritized fuel efficiency at the expense of reliability. He argues that today's trucks are plagued with recalls and parts problems caused by supply chain disruptions, staffing changes at US plants, and poor management decisions. Instead, he recommends drivers who need a bed on the back of their new set of wheels head to the pre-owned lot.
Khaleej Times
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Khaleej Times
Car Garage Expert expands reach with trusted mechanic services and premier car workshop in Dubai
Continuing its rapid growth across the UAE's automotive sector, Car Garage Expert has announced the expansion of its services to meet the rising demand for high-quality repairs and maintenance. Now offering broader coverage with certified technicians and a fully-equipped car workshop near me, the company strengthens its position as a go-to solution for drivers looking for a mechanic near me they can trust. Whether it's a luxury car, family SUV, or fleet vehicle, Car Garage Expert ensures every customer receives precision service, convenience, and peace of mind. The company's upgraded service model now brings together a powerful blend of mobile assistance and in-workshop expertise, ensuring no corner of Dubai is left unsupported. "The modern driver values time, quality, and transparency," said Mian Mohammed Fahad, founder and CEO of Car Garage Expert. "Our goal is to be the name people search for when typing mechanic near me or car workshop near me in Dubai. We want to be the first name they trust when it comes to maintaining or fixing their vehicles." With a team of highly trained and mobile-certified technicians, Car Garage Expert is able to deliver on-the-spot diagnostics, urgent repairs, and routine maintenance directly at the client's location, eliminating the need to wait at workshops or disrupt daily schedules. The company's mobile units come fully equipped with advanced tools, offering the same standards of quality you'd expect from a high-end car workshop near me. Whether it's engine issues, brake repair, electrical troubleshooting, or AC service, customers can expect dealership-level service delivered to their doorstep. For those seeking a full-service car workshop in Dubai, Car Garage Expert's new Al Quoz location offers a cutting-edge facility capable of handling complex repairs and full diagnostics. From major engine and transmission repairs to detailed paint jobs and pre-purchase inspections, this central hub is designed to handle all types of vehicles under one roof. Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic computers, hydraulic lifts, and a skilled workforce, the facility ensures faster turnaround times and high-accuracy solutions. It also provides tailored care for premium brands, including Mercedes, Audi, BMW, Range Rover, and Porsche. Recognised for its dedication to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction, Car Garage Expert has quickly emerged as the answer for anyone searching for a trusted mechanic near me or a professional car workshop near me. With 24/7 roadside assistance, transparent pricing, and expert advice, the company remains firmly focused on enhancing the driver experience in Dubai. "We're not just offering repairs—we're offering confidence on the road," Fahad added. "Whether you visit our workshop or call us to your location, you can trust our experts to treat your vehicle like their own."
Motor 1
13-07-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
‘Will Inevitably Clog Your System:' Woman Uses A/C Recharger in Her Miata. Then Viewers Warn Her
A Miata driver recently discovered that recharging the A/C system seemed to fix their engine idle, though the two issues aren't actually connected. TikTok user @skeeteryata, who owns a 1991 Miata, said she used a DIY A/C recharge kit and was surprised by what happened next. 'Who knew recharging your A/C would make your car idle normal?' she wrote, noting that before the recharge, her Miata idled at 2,000 RPM with the A/C on. 'Wow, who knew?' she added in the caption. As of this writing, her video had pulled in more than 140,800 views. What's An A/C Recharge Kit—and Will It Damage Your Car? An A/C recharge kit is a do-it-yourself solution designed to refill your car's air conditioning system with refrigerant, usually when levels drop due to normal wear or small leaks. In some cases, it can temporarily boost cooling performance . Don't let convenience fool you, though. These kits are billed as easy fixes, yet they don't tackle the underlying issue. If your A/C is consistently low on refrigerant, there's probably a leak—something only a professional can properly diagnose and repair. They also come with risks. Refrigerant is a toxic chemical that, if mishandled, can cause breathing problems or serious eye injuries. Overfilling the system can wreck your A/C compressor, and improper use may release harmful chemicals into the environment. There's also the issue of precision. When your A/C system is completely empty, it needs to be refilled based on the specific weight recommended by the manufacturer. Professionals use specialized tools to measure this accurately. DIY kits, however, rely on basic pressure gauges, so even if the pressure looks right, the actual refrigerant volume could be off. Too much can damage your system; too little, and your A/C won't cool properly. Compatibility is another concern. Most DIY kits use R-134a refrigerant, which works for many cars made after 1994. But older models, like the Miata that @skeeteryata drives, may require R-12, and many newer vehicles now use R-1234yf. Mixing refrigerant types can seriously damage your A/C system. So, if you're unsure what your car takes, DIY charging isn't the way to go. In short, while these kits may offer a quick fix, they come with a margin for error that could cost you more in the long run. If your A/C issues persist—or if you're dealing with an unfamiliar system—play it safe and call your local mechanic. Will Using One Affect My Car's Idle? Not directly. As @skeeteryata noted in the comments of her video, her Miata was idling rough and also had A/C issues. After using a DIY recharge kit, her car suddenly started to 'idle normal'—but that's likely a coincidence, not cause and effect. 'So many people acting like they know my car better than me,' she replied under the post. 'It was just a goofy post, I know adding refrigerant ain't gonna cure all my issues.' The bottom line is that recharge kits are meant to fix cooling issues, not engine performance. If your car's idle is off, there's probably something else going on—and a can of refrigerant won't fix it. Viewers Warn Against DIY Kits Commenters on @skeeteryata's video didn't hold back, calling DIY A/C recharge kits 'garbage' and warning they could do more harm than good in the long run. 'Now when ur AC fails it's going to need the whole system replaced instead of just getting to the root cause,' one wrote. 'They don't just lose refrigerant, they leak, and ur filling it with anti-leak which will inevitably clog your systems.' 'If u recharged it but didn't fix it, ain't it just gonna leak again?' another asked. 'If you need to recharge, it means there is a leak,' added a third. But @skeeteryata stood her ground. In the comments, she reminded critics that the post was meant to be lighthearted, not a how-to guide. 'I know this isn't a universal fix,' she wrote. 'I know what's wrong with my car and why it idles rough. I was just saying I added refrigerant and my A/C problems got better. I'm not dumb, I promise.' Motor1 has reached out to @skeeteryata via a TikTok direct message. Now Trending 'Hertz Tried to Sue Us:' P.I. Rents Nissan Altima. Then He Shares What You Should Always Do Before Leaving the Rental Lot 'I Work as a Valet Driver and Brooo:' Man Starts His New Chevrolet Colorado. Then He Notices An Unprecedented New Feature Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Daily Mail
12-07-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
I've been a mechanic for 50 years... here are the new cars you should desperately avoid: 'Blowing up'
He's the most outspoken mechanic on YouTube — and that didn't change in an interview with the Daily Mail. Scotty Kilmer, 71, has been fixing cars for 50 years. His grease-stained experience and candid rants have grown his YouTube channel (@scottykilmer) to more than 6.5 million followers, with viewers seeking his no-nonsense repair advice.
