These days cars are as much computers as they are mechanical. This can throw off alot of people who fell that they are good with automotive parts, but can’t do anything with the computer portions of these. Here are a few tips to handle computers.

Codes – These days its all about the codes. All Car Parts have codes that they can send to the ECU. These codes can be easily read with a Diagnostics Machine. These can either be purchased for a few hundred dollars, but typically you are better off renting one from a local parts store. Call around to see who has them.

Sensors – Codes are sent to the ECU via sensors that are in most auto parts. These sensors tell the computer what is going on. The AC Compressor has a sensor that tells how hot it is running, the brake pads have a sensor to tell how much wear is going on, etc, etc. These sensors can often be reset by removing the power source and plugging back in. This will often fix most problems. Beyond that, you can usually buy a new sensor and replace just that.

Wiring – Wiring is straight forward. Check to ensure that wiring is good and well protected. Exposed wiring can often rust or short with water getting on it. This is straight forward.

Remember, the goal is not to just get the engine light to turn off, that is easy. The goal is to fix the problems.