Search results

MA switched to a more invasive emissions check about 10 years ago. Before that, my son's tuned GTI got through. Afterward, the MA computers spotted the tune and he had to revert to stock (at least for the check). I lived in CT and my FR-S tune was never flagged. The FR-S tune modified...

Water/air intercoolers are primarily used on Roots type supercharger installations (GM V8, etc.), where they sandwich nicely between the supercharger and intake manifold. At speed, our air/air intercoolers likely provide lower intake temperatures. Water/air intercoolers will feed the engine...

My load with 4 adults and luggage was about 800 lb.

I've had 3 large adult passengers, plus me & luggage in my CTR for 70+ mile trips back and forth the PHX airport. No problem whatsoever. I normally have the ITS damper module set to comfort. Note rear tire wear may accelerate due to higher load and increased toe-in from the multi-link...

Bosch is a unique business model, reinvesting all their profits in technical innovation. Reportedly they develop solutions years ahead of need, then license use to manufacturers (Denso, etc.) in addition to their own production.

We did Petrified Forest NP last fall. Road surfaces in that region were course and noisy FYI. Definitely worth a visit, as is nearby Meteor Crater (private attraction).

Helicoils are easy to install. They sell kits with everything needed in every thread size, including left hand. If doing it yourself, McMaster.com and eBay are go-to's for such things.

Check the wall thicknesses surrounding the stripped hole. Helicoils have the smallest outside diameter. But if you plan multiple disassembles, beware Helicoils can back out as bolts unthread.

Most newer cars collect some dirt due to all the plastic under trays. Not really a problem. Drilling a 1/4" hole on either side may allow it to exit while driving in the rain, though I would just leave it alone.

The Honda minivan spare tire tool kit came with 2 thumb screws and a washer plate. One thumb screw fit perfect, fastening to the existing M8 nut in the tire well (2024 CTR). I bought the Type R trunk matt, which hides the 2" height difference.

For a full brake system bleed, I usually buy a quart. The left front generally takes the most volume before running clean, then less as you go around.

Suction out the master cylinder fluid and replace with new prior to bleeding, otherwise the above summary looks good. I've used a Mityvac system for years. My Mityvac container is smaller than the master cylinder, so I just refill the master cylinder after each draw. I've read DOT3 holds up...

I got a Honda minivan spare with tools off eBay. Only fits rear, so would need to swap tires if the front goes flat. Most of my flats have been on rear tires though. I paid $170. You can do better by visiting a junk yard, but none nearby me.

Other than the steering rack recall, I'm not letting the dealer touch my car. Dealers often have low skilled techs doing the routine stuff. I've heard several horror stories from friends and neighbors. I have decades of auto wrenching experience without mistakes. And I get to chose the...

I crossed shopped a new 5.0 Mustang vs. the CTR. Yes the 480hp V8 is awesome, but the Mustang needed another $15k+ in options to get better tires, wheels, brakes, suspension, and seats. That put it above $60k, even with an my "friends and family" discount code. Also, the Mustang back seats...

I'm happy with my CTR's CW paint job. Much better bumper match than my TL and FR-S. My car's rear surfaces get dusty fast in the desert anyway.

In some states and municipalities, police aren't allowed to engage in high speed pursuits (especially with motorcycles). That being said, I don't recommend FAFO.

Honda's original hybrids had an electric motor/generator sandwiched between the gas engine and transmission. New Toyota Tacoma's and Land Cruiser's reportedly use this configuration. New Honda hybrids get good fuel economy. However I worked with folks claiming 45mpg in an original Civic...

Original Insight's and Civic hybrids were available with manual transmissions. The problem for automakers is they can't easily program drivers of manuals (per close relative in the auto industry), so it is harder to meet EPA targets. On hybrid eCVT cars, there's a lot of pre-programmed...

Unfortunately, it's easy to steal modern cars. An RF blocker key pouch and OBD2 blocker prevents theft, except by towing. My understanding is an RF signal capture device and an expensive Autel tablet are normally used, which generally means organized crime involvement. The needed Autel's are...