I am literally at the point of,, I don't buy anything unless I first check to see if Project Farm has done a review first. Great series without product bias or fluff.
So you just squeezed what would be a couple dozen videos on other channels into a single comprehensive car maintenance video...as you say, VERY IMPRESSIVE!
It feels like this video is the culmination of everything you’ve done and you’re using your newfound powers of knowing the best products to beat the final boss
I'm just gonna say. For some reason it feels really good to just sit and watch someone do a great job of fixing up a perfectly usable old car. I'm a mechanic, so I do this sort of thing for work, and see it every day. But it's a good feeling watching someone else who is careful and thoughtful when it comes to service and repair 🤔
For those new mechanics out there, the single best take away from this video is him using his phone to take "before" pictures to ensure everything goes back together correctly. I can't express how much I wish I had this capability growing up in the 80's and 90's.
And you probably learned the hard way that you should put all of the parts together in a ziplock bag. It sucks when you find yourself saying "I think I reinstalled everything but I'm not entirely sure"
You did. Polaroid cameras. Film was expensive, but very good quality prints developed in under a minute. I had the epitome of Polaroids in the 1980s: A metal SX-70, their fold-flat instant camera. I bought it from a pawn shop for $25. It operated perfectly, had no tears in the bellows, but the film was expensive. A pack of 10 prints plus a flashbar with 10 bulbs together cost $10 back then, a princely sum compared with the per-picture cost of 35mm. In the 1990s I sold it on eBay for $50. I regret that now. It's a piece of spectacular American engineering genius.
@@loveydovey4u I have 237k on an 06 mazda tribute, 240k on an 08 sienna, and about 250k on an 08 prius. Clutch blew up on the tribute, but the two toyotas are mechanically perfect.
Project Farm is the emulation model for DIY videos…Comprehensive, Comprehendable, Compact, Caring. I’m sure Consumer Reports feels the heat from your light illuminating your videos.It’s a LOT of hard work, but like the other Olympians, you make it look easy. Congratulations on creating an Enlightening & Enlivening career!
I was a mechanic for only 25 years.I had to retire due to health issues. Everything in this video is perfect. Are you sure that you're not a mechanic? lol! I love all your videos, but this one takes the cake! Your attention to detail is great. Mad respect to you!!!!
My only worry is changing that old transmission fluid out at that point. The new fluid is liable to make it slip as it's going to be worn out inside the transmission. I guess, if nothing else we might get to see if project farm can rebuild an automatic transmission
You think it's wise to completely replace all the ATF. I think what he did in the video should suffice. Alot of times those high mileage trannies will slip when there is too much fresh fluid in them
@@Justin_Ebright You're right about that. Doing a high-mileage ATF fluid change tends to be a game of Russian RouIette. Whenever I do one of those, I will actually keep the old fluid in case that happens.
Yes it happened to my 04 civic high mileage fluid change but after the 4th drain and fill , added Lucas no slip and it really worked ! Lasted for a very long time after that.
In less than 20 minutes you've clearly instructed anyone with a reasonable toolkit and some common sense how to save thousands of dollars and drive safer. Outstanding!
It's takes more than common sense for someone to replace a CV joint on their own... Hopefully someone with no experience doesn't screw up their car lol
Before I buy anything, I always watch "Project Farm" videos first. This man should have his own tv show. Some people don't realize how much work is needed to make videos like how he does. I thank you sir 🙏🏽
As a former Honda tech, I must say this video is completely on point. Thanks for making this! It shows how easy it is to take a great older car and turn it into a solid and reliable daily driver.
I love how well thought out Honda's are . it's rare to find a domestic vehicle with a transmission drain plug in those years. much less a cabin filter for an economy car.
@@Fyxxterzc The factory coolant is Blue. However, the formula for it is similar to most other Japanese brands. For example, I used Honda factory coolant in Toyotas and Mazdas often due to how much extra I had amassed over the years. The key is knowing what types of coolants and additives do not mix well with others. Dexcool for example should not be mixed with conventional or import types.
My 2011 Ram has 283,000 miles, 2012 Subaru has 142,000. I've been a mechanic for 45 years. I have also bought and flipped many cheap vehicles. I enjoy doing this and making a few dollars profit is nice. Thank you for an enjoyable video !
In my opinion- most reliable 200k car is going to be a Lexus. It's simply built better. Your thoughts? Toyota, Honda, and Subaru cheap base models would be my first choice for a lower cost buy in on a 200,000 mile auto that I was trying to 'restore' like this to make it roadworthy and reliable. It largely depends on the particular model that one buys of course... not all models within those brands are going to perform identically.
@@melissachartres3219 I've got a Lexus with 270k miles. You are somewhat correct but actually Toyota brand is more reliable because Lexus tends to have a bunch of luxury features that go bad quicker. For instance, the entire suspension system had to be replaced because the stock version was a very expensive hydraulic adjustable-height design. Also the brake system is exceptionally expensive to replace compared to regular Toyota version. Other little parts are much more expensive to replace, i.e headlights and seats, because fewer Lexus are made so they're harder to find. But the engine and transmission are basically Toyota and those are rock solid.
I'm way above you, I've had 4 Chevy vans to make it past 450,000 miles without any major repairs. I've got a Toyota Corolla with 395,000 miles that the only repair was a water pump at 365,000 miles. I laughed when I saw this video was about 200,000 miles. That's nothing.
@@melissachartres3219 Yeah but the rear seats don't fold down in Toyotas and also they are hardly without problems. And when you DO have problems, all the parts for a LUXURY car are priced accordingly, and not available aftermarket for a low volume brand. I work on cars and a LAUGH at idiots who buy lexus, infiniti bmw kind of garbage at the salvage auction.
wow! as a mechanic for over 30 years both military and civilian i must commend you on how concise and correct your video is. most of the training videos i saw back in my school days could only dream of being this educational. to quote you, "very impressive!".
@@jerbear7952 Did your ass hurt? You want to run the show? Go ahead. “WE” owe you an apology. Sorry! Does it make you feel better? We are all here just watching videos and having a good time, hopefully gain a bit of knowledge along the way. Why do feel the need to make such comment? Just relax and feel the love man. Have a great day! 😘😘
Old mechanic here - a couple of tips; when changing or bleeding brakes on older vehicles pushing the pedal to the floor can very easily destroy the master cylinder by running in an area that it has never gone to where rust builds up it can very easily cut the piston seal. Simply crack the bleeder valve and let it gravity bleed - it’s a bit slower but much safer and 2; when changing coolant simply squeezing the top hose is not sufficient to bleed the air out - with radiator cap off run the engine until it reaches running temperature (you will feel the top hose getting hot when the thermostat opens) and after air purges out top up radiator and replace radiator cap 👍
I'm a manager for one of the largest auto parts retailers in the world, I refer customers to your channel multiple times a day, and I can't wait for that OBD scanner episode!!!
I swear you're the only RUclipsr I've ever seen tighten/torque strut bolts the proper way, by putting the assembly under compression before tightening. Bravo.
Probably a lesson he learned from experience! I know I have! Not to mention it's SOOO much easier to swap in a fully compressed assembly than trying to squeeze a spring onto a new strut. EUGH. Never trying that again!
I recently did all the struts on my Camry and made sure to preload before tightening. Took it to a shop afterwards for an alignment, and the guy found everything was still in perfect alignment.
@@tylerk3616 you use a jack under that suspension component (ball joint) and then tighten down your strut to hub bolts. That way it's at its resting height as if the vehicle was sitting on its tires on the ground. Especially important for the control arm to frame bolts, less strain on the rubber bushings.
@@tylerk3616 Before you tighten the strut bolts, compress the spring by putting a jack under the control arm. This takes up the slop in the holes and makes sure the strut is aligned like how it will be when the strut is supporting the weight of the car.
That Civic is ready for the next 200K miles- well done! People should get in the habit of keeping what they have and maintain it well. It was $800 in parts but likely thousands more in labor to have a shop do it, so that was a great restoration.
Not always true about the labour especially in the hands of an experienced mechanic. I needed to have a CV axle, radiator hose, and shifter cables replaced. I had the choice to do it myself at a DIY garage that charges $30 Canadian per hour for lift access (I don't have a home with a garage), or pay $139 Canadian per hour to a shop that knows my car very well. It only cost me $200 more to have the shop do the work than me trying to spend an entire weekend learning new stuff from A to Z with no idea on how long the work will take to complete. They even let me furnish many of the needed parts which have become harder to locate lately considering it's a discontinued Fiat 500 Abarth.
I have a 2007 Hyundai Sonata I bought for 13,500 and now has 305168 and just replaced the injectors and it still is running fine. One of the best cars I ever bought. Nice video, great to watch.
12:27 as the former manager of an independent repair shop, this is one of the most invaluable tips that very few people seem to consider. We had to pay to replace a customer's windshield after a tech (who knew better) decided to skip the towel/pad under the bare wiper arm. Overall, great video and great technique! This is the kind of knowledge that we should be imparting upon people who are new to working on cars. There is a lot of garbage advice out there these days.
When I worked at a parts store, we'd change hundreds of wipers a month. The trick we used is as soon as you've removed the old blade, place it on the windshield/hood in a way that if that arm snaps back, it smacks the old blade before the glass. Can't do it on every car, but you can on most, and it saves you from breaking a windshield without having to remember to bring anything extra outside with you. Side note: It still amazes me how many people don't know how to change a wiper blade. Its something so simple on 99% of cars, yet you'd think it was rocket surgery or something. You can tell when they're asking you to change blades for them just because they're too lazy to stand out in the rain/snow and do it themselves.
i was a mechanic, my go to is just to never leave the arm up. if i need to let go at any point, the wiper arm is carefully coming down until im holding it again.
Great video! Young people need to learn how much buying a reliable used car instead of a brand new car will affect their financial future for years to come. This video shows them how to do it. Thanks for making it.
This is one of the best go-to consumer review channels on the Internet, if not the best. Project Farm deserves way more than 3.16M subscribers. This used car refurbish video explains this channels commitment to saving people money by buying quality and keeping things maintained.
Been watching you for years now. As a certificated Aircraft Mechanic of nearly three decades I'm a bit of a mechanical "snob" and I have noticed that your mechanical abilities are top notch! I have often wondered what your past career experience has been. Aviation related by chance? In Aviation maintenance needs to be done correct the first time so I definitely notice quality when I see it. Kudos and keep up the GREAT work!!! Thanks Todd...
I owned a Honda Accord and Honda Fit. Both were assembled in Japan. They both went over 200k miles without any major issues. I did all the normal scheduled services myself and saved a lot of money. I really enjoyed how brief but detailed this video was.
My 2010 Honda fit just hit 280k and is going strong (doesn’t look so pretty but who cares really? Go gen x). I’m already looking for another one, same year blue. Then I’ll use the old one for parts.
Project Farm is one of those channels that adds enormous value to RUclips as a media source/outlet. So much good honest advice and so well put together. Thank You!
Parasocial relationships are very problematic for social media content creators like RUclipsrs. Us viewers have watched videos over long timespans, often years or over a decade. We feel like we've gotten to know the RUclipsr as we can see all their idiosyncrasies and we hear all of their vocabulary and sentence structure. It's like hanging out with a friend once a week for years. Except...the creator has no clue that you even exist. It's super jarring when you run into a fan who feels like they know you as a friend and they therefore feel comfortable treating you like a friend, but in reality you are total strangers. It would be strange for you to go up to a random guy in Walmart and suddenly bearhug him and just say "Dude you're so awesome, I'm so happy to meet you." This is what RUclipsrs face every day. Parasocial relationships have become a humongous, widespread phenomenon in today's world. Eminem's song about his biggest fan named Stan really hit the nail on the head back then.
@@mannys9130 Interesting. But random people in a store are likely not content creators and therefore would have zero reason to expect or anticipate that strangers would approach them out of nowhere. So obviously it would be very unnerving. Yet celebrities, music stars, sports personalities and yes, YT creators with millions of subs are well aware their names and faces are out there in the public. Of course, it doesn't mean any of those people want to be mauled by their adoring fans but they all learn to handle it in one way or another. Some sop up the adulation and revel in being recognized, some shirk it, and lots are in between. No doubt it takes a while to get used to it, but most probably do.
Hey Todd! I just wanted to let you know that the RGVOTA battery bank that came with my awesome Very Impressive tee shirt, has been a life saver for a friend of mine. An elderly lady who is having vehicle problems with her RV to the point where she is sort of stuck right now, is using it to keep her phone charged. She'll walk it over to my campsite every few days so I can recharge it off of my solar. Thanks again for being so helpful. You really are a great blessing to many people.
By far one of THE MOST useful, informative, and comprehensive videos on the internet. You and Scotty Kilmer are saving the average american citizen time, money, and headaches with your honest and meticulous channels. The elites that want to financially enslave the world hate guys that teach others to be self sufficient. Keep up the great work.
PF, you are a legend. First and primarily you are showing people a more affordable option for vehicles, when money is tight and saving money saves peoples stress. Secondly you are saving the planet, by showing how a fundamentally good car, with a bit of maintenance, can give a heap more service, delaying the production of a whole new vehicle and the ~6 tons of carbon emissions associated with that!
I've tried watching many auto repair videos online and most are a mix of terrible instruction, old man rambling, terrible lighting, low resolution. I've learned more in this one video that any other videos I've watched. If you ever decide to do more comprehensive repair videos like this that are clear, to the point, with good visuals, I'd be happy to pay for it and I'm willing to bet I'm not the only one.
Dude, The most efficient video and car repair I have ever seen. You get right to the point with no BS. Good shots of what you are fixing and quick editing! If I lived near you, you would be my mechanic. I have been working on my own cars since I was 17 (1970) and have saved hundreds of thousands doing the same kind of repairs for me and my family. New cars are so over priced why would you want to spend your hard earned money on them. A car is a hole in the road in which you throw money! Great job keep up the good work!
Be Nice To Host & DO Some Repairs 4 rv TraveLers, Of Course With $$ UpFront, & a 😂Written 5-page Document😢 Stating as iS, 33-minute 33 Mile Warranty Lol
Watch you all the time and I think this is a great video. I’m a 71-year-old do it yourself kind of guy and you help me pick a lot of products that are time and money saving . Thanks
He gets right to the point, and STAYS to the point; no war stories or self-aggrandizement, videos are fast-paced, test methods focus on core performance, not bells and whistles or personal preference, and are often simply brutal., cost of purchasing is always considered, top notch production quality- clear annunciation, proper mic and camera placement, well-lit sets, no annoying MUSIC. Should be promoted as a model of “How to do a RUclips channel right”.
Great Video, I'm an automobile dealer in NC and this is exactly how we go over every vehicle. Project Farm is definitely one of my favorite RUclips channels and keep making more videos like this one! Thanks
Fantastic video! I have a 2013 Acura TL with almost 205,000 miles on it. Other than maintenance items (which I keep up with religiously), it amazingly still has got all it's original parts. I also keep it clean and detailed inside and out. I just took it for it's yearly safety inspection and the technician commented to me how impressed he was at the condition of my car. I do most the mechanical and all the detail work myself thanks to learning from RUclips channels like this one.
Love Acuras, I have a 2013 TSX 160k miles and it just eats the miles up, have lost zero efficiency still gets well above what’s it rated for gas mileage wise as long as I’m not always gunning it lol everytime I get it inspected or when I had the brakes done (everything else I’ve done myself) I’m told it’s got plenty of life left.
I learned something new today. I have never heard of 3rd clutch pressure switch . I have a 2004 camry with 301K miles and 2007 Lexus LS460 with 171K miles.
Timestamp @ 1:21 Mechanic tip: most of those plastic harness retainer barbs are easily squeezed in with the boxed end of a 10mm combination wrench. Slip the box end over the barbs, wrench will squeeze both barbs in enough to pull the retainer out of the hole.
Can confirm, the 8th generation civics' are unbelievably reliable and cheap. After-market or even some OEM parts are a bargain and nearly every repair is doable at home with basic tools. We've been driving the same one since new, over 275,000 miles, just purchased a second one for my girlfriend. Plan to drive them till the frame rusts out (can't do much about that here...)
Until recently my son was driving a 98 civic dx that was beat near to death. Then he pulled out the threads with the spark plugs. Not sure how long it will sit in the yard before he admits he'll never get around to fixing it.
of course, any honda after 2010 is a piece of junk. My ex's started falling apart at 110k. Josh's engine had to be replaced at 60k and Renee's engine had to be replaced at 80k. (All OEM/no mods, no racing, with proper maintenance). Plus you can just count how many are broken down on the side of the highway. I usually see up to 3 on a round trip to the store. Even consumer reports and JD Power are admitting that honda isn't reliable anymore.
@@BryanPeretto maybe a controversial opinion but between the V6 automatic transmission nuking themselves in the early 2000s and then the D17 overheating in the Civics then the late 00s hybrid Civics having HORRIBLE battery failure and the Odyssey following up in the early 2010s with transmission issues and other issues, I don’t think that Honda actually was all that great in the 2000s. Think 1990s was their best. Past 2010 they started to get better again.
you have really a really clear speaking voice and do a good job of clearly showing what and where youre doing somthing on what specific part. its made me realize that repairs on my car can be done so much easier than i expected. Id love to see more videos like this just focusing on common repairs/replacements, especially on models that share smiliar parts/engines with ither models
2003 Volvo S60; 349814 miles; engine is leak free, transmission shifts smooth, only wear items replaced since 2003 other than wiper motor and factory defective DIM module. I LOVE this channel- great job Todd... you too Cousin Eddie :)
This channel is amazing. In 18 minutes he showed how to fix and keep your car running and show just the important parts and didn't cheap out. Bought the original part so that he knows it will work without problems. Some other channel take 18 minutes to tell you nothing 🤣
Great video. I fast forwarded through much of it but still got the point. I have a 2008 Honda Accord w 2.4l 4-cyl. 344,000 miles and still runs great. Never had the engine light come on. Only major maintenance was timing chain replacement at 220,000 miles and replaced power steering pump. Original transmission with no issues. Been absolutely reliable vehicle. Shooting for 500,000 before I trade it in.
All you've tried to do since the first video is help people! First with how-to vids, then with product reviews. Now with 3M viewers you've done it on such a large scale you will never be able to fully grasp the effect you've had. THIS video will inspire many to tackle auto repairs and will be life-changing for some. Just amazing. Also, I've seen longer videos that only cover ONE of the repairs you demonstrated! I truly appreciate your editing prowess and lack of superfluous chatter.
My father owned a garage for over 50 years so I'm well versed on maintenance and you did well. You are the first person I've seen other than myself who placed a towel or similar on a windshield to keep the spring loaded wiper arm from causing mayhem.
I too, have placed the towel on the windshield, for about 55 years! When I ran Auto Repair Shops, I met a few customers who broke their windshield , when the wiper arm got away and hit the glass!
What a fantastic channel. I am a retired middle school math teacher. The last year I taught the principal came to me and asked me to create a class where the students could learn practical applications to living and surviving life. Your channel was part of my curriculum. Thank you.
I just bought my 17 yr old son a 2014 Chrysler 200 HT convertible. It wasn't perfect but he loved it when we went to go see it. Took it home and slowly doing improvements on it to what it is now. More that anything I've been enjoying the process doing it together with my son.
Great cars, although the transmissions are hit or miss on reliability (although most things are, I suppose). The 2.4l gets a lot of hate too but as a detailer I've seen plenty with over 200,000 miles.
One of my favorite videos you ever posted. I’m in the used car business and this is a great video to show people if you buy a used vehicle on a budget, and your mechanical. You can make it into a very good vehicle.
I love the super-concise, high-speed look at repair work. I'd love to see more, especially diagnosing issues, small engine stuff, shop tools, etc. things like making the fluid extractor are great, too. Thanks for another informative and enjoyable watch!
Heres a tip for you Todd. Whenever replacing a thermostat take a drill bit and drill two or three holes in the thermostat that way you will always have coolant flowing if the thermostat sticks. It could save you an engine some day.
As my father always said, the cheapest car to own is the one you already have. Fixing up an older car you already have is much cheaper than a new car (obviously as long as there are no issues that would just be cost-prohibitive), especially if you can do the work yourself. Great videos as always!
I have an 18-year-old car with nearly 260,000 miles on it. I got it when it was 5-years-old and had 60,000 miles on the odometer. Regular cleaning and maintenance has kept it on the road. I use OEM, or high quality name brand, parts on it; no cheap chain-store junk for me.
I knew a bit before but taught myself a lot on my 98 4Runner mostly thanks to RUclips. Rebuilt the entire suspension as well as some other things. Sadly I wrecked it two weeks ago but now I have an 03 Sequoia to wrench on. 90% of wrenching is just elbow grease really, especially on stuff outside of the engine.
As someone who has done a CV joint replacement in an equipped shop with the tutelage of a competent mechanic, you make this stuff look SO EASY. I would definitely be paying for this level of work.
You nailed it on the head. "With regular maintenance" the question is a) the cost of the regular maintenance for the parts needed. b) the skillset and toolset to do that required maintenance. The big thing is having the skills to do the work. If I tackled this kind of project. I'm not ashamed of having a copy of Haynes or Chilton on hand to get all the repairs done correctly. Thanks for the video it was a lot of fun to watch.
During the Obama administration, the used car market was devastated. I knew a guy who worked at a BMW dealership who was disgusted that they had to pour something in the engine to destroy it on cars traded in under that "Cash for Clunkers" program.
@@plkracer that's fairly accurate. I saw a guy selling an HHR panel for $1000 with transmission issues. Someone bought it put new tires and an odometer with fewer miles and selling it for $4500. I reported it.
This past week I had my 2003 Toyota Tacoma totaled by a tree during High winds. Car shopping these days with these prices is insane. I’m thinking about buying an old vehicle with a medium amount of miles, and these videos are invaluable.
My favorite RUclips channel of all time! Thanks Todd, for saving everyone money and time, you are a living legend! Also, huge thanks for sharing the financial sensibility of maintaining an older vehicle, saying what people need to hear and understand. I drive a 2004 and everyone wants me to upgrade, but I feel exactly as you do, you perfectly explain the logic behind keeping a good old car on the road, thank you! 😊
Would love to see more like this! Love how you point out how much more expensive it is to buy a new car than a very used one. My wife and I just picked up a Silverado 1500. It had 165000 miles and that worried my wife but I told her they are reliable (mostly) and I can do just about anything to it. You should post the portion on making the mason jar vacuum separately. I will definitely do that.
One of my favorite RUclips stars....Great job Some extras: -new coolant temp sensor -clean and pressure wash the radiator inside and outside -new upper O2 sensor -take out and clean the crank and cam sensors -unplug and clean all electrical connectors -clean the engine grounds -replace the PCV valve -check for loose and cracked rubber vacuum hose -clean the EGR assembly -engine flush(old oil) + Motorkote engine treatment(new fresh oil)? -add some sound deadening material @ trunk, floor, engine bay, wheel wells , doors -LED headlights bulbs -change the speakers with some new mid priced ones...they make a difference -get some lightweight alloy wheels to help with rotation mass for improved performance and MPG - rust prevention aka: CRC Corrosion Inhibitor or similar
I just did a similar "restoration" like this on a 200k mile Honda Odyssey minivan. I would guess the parts and labor I put into it would have cost 10 grand at a dealership but I worked on it in my spare time and only spent a little over a grand on parts. It is very rewarding to give an old vehicle a new life.
Fantastic video! I'm in the auto industry and so many people get rid of a good car, because their mechanic scared them with a high repair bill. If they learned how to do the work themselves, it would save a lot on labor costs. Most people are afraid to try to tackle it, because they're scared to damage something. I love RUclips, because there are so many excellent videos of people willing to share how they do things. It's a great community and I'm so glad I found this channel. Please keep doing these videos - people can learn so much from them!
If u are really in the auto industry u would know some things better to let mechanic handle it, not everything you can diy by just watching a RUclips video
Fixing a car needs good tools. Not to mention a good jack. Repair shop use hydraulic lifters which made so much easier for a mechanic to work and prevent accidents. Many of us who are obese are struggling going the car or have to work on their knees
I have a 2009 Civic that had 250,000 miles on it at the beginning of July. My wife and I took it on a 3-week 6000-mile trip across the USA including climbing Pikes Peak. A reliable car is a wonderful thing to have.
My 2012 Expedition has 246k miles on and (knock on wood) she's still running like a champ. Bought her cheap because she had been VERY neglected but some new parts and elbow grease later and I have gone all over the midwest towing a boat and for family trips. About 60k miles over the last 3 years. The longer you run an old vehicle, the more it pays you back.
This. Was. Amazing. I completely agree with this philosophy. My 2008 civic was purchased used for 1k with 140,001 & I’m repairing issue mostly myself. My 2001 rx300 was purchased for $500 with 307,000 miles. Minimal maintenance & runs like new
This was the perfect video for the times we are living in now . I recently bought a 2004 rav 4 with 171 K miles and did the same type of maintenance she runs like a champion. Great video
That's the BEST single video I've ever seen on basic repair ideas and cost valuation. Every teen should be required to see this. I'm in your camp on these ideas 1000%. Learn how to do stuff...and stay out of debt!
I recently sold my 1998 Ford f150, with the v6 engine. Only used mobile 1 oil, and took good care of it in Colorado, and it helped me move my stuff to San Diego...when I sold it, it had almost 300,000 miles on it, and was still running strong 💪
Oh hell yeah! Car maintenance videos like this? Love it. And with everyone needing to save a few dollars here and there and stretch the life of our cars this is super important info. Can't say enough good things.
Just wow. It's a video tutorial of most car DIYers out there. It's a full pack of strategies and is so informative. And the effort is overwhelming. Thank you ☺️
Todd, You and many of us think like you when it comes to vehicles. I have a 2006 Mercury Mariner that I bought new for my wife. After she got a new Ford Edge; I used the Mariner for work. I had to put a new engine in it at 234,000 miles due blown head gasket. I did basically the maintenance you did on your Honda. I now have 324,000 miles on it and still running strong. Yay Project Farm!
I got a 2010 Camry pre covid for a great deal as a commuter. It’s making a terrible noise on start up mostly when it’s cold. When I bought that car I had no idea how expensive everything would become and that I’d need it for awhile but she needs alotta love. This is making me want to tackle the project.
I have that same 2008 Honda Civic with only 90K miles driven by my mother-in-law so I know it wasn't abused. Mine suffers from the paint clear coat problem that plagued these cars. The clear coat wasn't thick enough and now the blue paint looks grey. But otherwise, it's a great and reliable car. Here's a tip. If you ever need to replace the starter motor, I'd go to a garage unless you have access to a lift. You really need to use both hands to do the job. I'm a pretty experienced mechanic and it took me a stubbornly 2 days to do the job lying on my back. Great video! Keep em coming.
I like how you do,straight to the point, in my family wee have 4 cars and most of the repairs I do, I have most of the tools to repair vehicles, my son is learning from me and Dr. RUclips guys like you. THANK YOU
I am literally at the point of,, I don't buy anything unless I first check to see if Project Farm has done a review first. Great series without product bias or fluff.
Wow, thanks!
1st on the list; that is for sure!
Same here.
Same here! I had to get a brush blade for my string trimmer, and a chainsaw sharpener last summer. This channel is what led me to the products i chose
Same :)
So you just squeezed what would be a couple dozen videos on other channels into a single comprehensive car maintenance video...as you say, VERY IMPRESSIVE!
Thank you!
I’m gonna test that.
True. I thought the same. So much goodness that others drag out for an hour or multiple videos.
I don't even look at long videos
I'm glad he did it this way. Quick and very informative. If he were to do long form videos of each step I would still watch em as well.
It feels like this video is the culmination of everything you’ve done and you’re using your newfound powers of knowing the best products to beat the final boss
And your second play through starts next Sunday with his next video
Thank you very much! Would you like to see more videos like this one?
Underrated comment..
I would like to see more vids like this. The upbeat tone alone keeps me invested.
@@ProjectFarm What year Is this 200k Honda Civic?
I'm just gonna say. For some reason it feels really good to just sit and watch someone do a great job of fixing up a perfectly usable old car. I'm a mechanic, so I do this sort of thing for work, and see it every day. But it's a good feeling watching someone else who is careful and thoughtful when it comes to service and repair 🤔
Thanks!
Absolutely the same sentiment from myself 👏👌
I thought you're supposed pour silicone into the engine.
Cash for clunkers, really destroyed a lot of cars young people could of used....
Yeah, as a mechanic in a shop, you don't have the opportunity to restore a car to perfect working order all at once very often.
Project Farm is a one man Consumer Reports for the masses. Thank you, sir.
I honestly trust Todd more than I trust Consumer Reports. I do like CR though.
What about Cousin Eddie?
You are welcome!
@@rickarmstrong4704 Todd's dark side!
@@rickarmstrong4704 I don't trust Cousin Eddie. He's shady.
For those new mechanics out there, the single best take away from this video is him using his phone to take "before" pictures to ensure everything goes back together correctly. I can't express how much I wish I had this capability growing up in the 80's and 90's.
True!!!
Thanks for the feedback.
And you probably learned the hard way that you should put all of the parts together in a ziplock bag. It sucks when you find yourself saying "I think I reinstalled everything but I'm not entirely sure"
You did. Polaroid cameras. Film was expensive, but very good quality prints developed in under a minute. I had the epitome of Polaroids in the 1980s: A metal SX-70, their fold-flat instant camera. I bought it from a pawn shop for $25. It operated perfectly, had no tears in the bellows, but the film was expensive. A pack of 10 prints plus a flashbar with 10 bulbs together cost $10 back then, a princely sum compared with the per-picture cost of 35mm. In the 1990s I sold it on eBay for $50. I regret that now. It's a piece of spectacular American engineering genius.
I’m a professional and I do this if it’s a job I’m not familiar with and has to be apart for a while/ Back in the day I would draw pictures.
As a retired ASE Master Auto Technician, I really enjoyed this. I like the way you edit it so it's not a long, drawn-out tutorial.
For real. I like watching another auto repair channel called rainmanrays, but he could make a 40 minute video just doing rear brakes.
Yes I appreciate the editing too.
What's the most miles you've seen on a vehicle??
@@loveydovey4u I have 237k on an 06 mazda tribute, 240k on an 08 sienna, and about 250k on an 08 prius. Clutch blew up on the tribute, but the two toyotas are mechanically perfect.
Thanks so much!
Project Farm is the emulation model for DIY videos…Comprehensive, Comprehendable, Compact, Caring. I’m sure Consumer Reports feels the heat from your light illuminating your videos.It’s a LOT of hard work, but like the other Olympians, you make it look easy. Congratulations on creating an Enlightening & Enlivening career!
Thanks so much! Thanks for supporting the channel! I really appreciate it!
I was a mechanic for only 25 years.I had to retire due to health issues. Everything in this video is perfect. Are you sure that you're not a mechanic? lol! I love all your videos, but this one takes the cake! Your attention to detail is great. Mad respect to you!!!!
My only worry is changing that old transmission fluid out at that point. The new fluid is liable to make it slip as it's going to be worn out inside the transmission.
I guess, if nothing else we might get to see if project farm can rebuild an automatic transmission
You think it's wise to completely replace all the ATF. I think what he did in the video should suffice. Alot of times those high mileage trannies will slip when there is too much fresh fluid in them
@justineb I think he already has done that.
@@Justin_Ebright You're right about that. Doing a high-mileage ATF fluid change tends to be a game of Russian RouIette. Whenever I do one of those, I will actually keep the old fluid in case that happens.
Yes it happened to my 04 civic high mileage fluid change but after the 4th drain and fill , added Lucas no slip and it really worked ! Lasted for a very long time after that.
In less than 20 minutes you've clearly instructed anyone with a reasonable toolkit and some common sense how to save thousands of dollars and drive safer. Outstanding!
Thank you!
VERY IMPRESSIVE !!
It's takes more than common sense for someone to replace a CV joint on their own... Hopefully someone with no experience doesn't screw up their car lol
Teenagers need to watch this. They have lost the ability to repair things.
Much of what he did required a car lift, not many of us have one. Or his mechanic skills.
Before I buy anything, I always watch "Project Farm" videos first. This man should have his own tv show. Some people don't realize how much work is needed to make videos like how he does. I thank you sir 🙏🏽
Thanks!
100% agree
A tv show would be a step down. He is on the best platform to do what he does, without having to worry about upsetting potential sponsors.
@@tichu7 100%
This is his show !
If only everyone on youtube was as quick, detailed and straight to the point as you.
So many videos have me wishing YT would allow 4X playback.
@@HariSeldon913
If you're on Google Chrome, there's several extensions to give you 16x speed.
Wait until our great grandkids can upload Chips to their brains, then we will want to know Which Chip is the Fastest ..
Since my father passed away, I need to turn to channels like this to learn certain skills. So I greatly appreciate your work, PF.
Your dad would be proud of you for taking it upon yourself to learn those things. I am sorry for your loss.
Thanks so much! Sorry to hear about your father. Glad I can help!
you'd be surprised how many dads don't know this kinda stuff
As a former Honda tech, I must say this video is completely on point. Thanks for making this! It shows how easy it is to take a great older car and turn it into a solid and reliable daily driver.
I love how well thought out Honda's are . it's rare to find a domestic vehicle with a transmission drain plug in those years. much less a cabin filter for an economy car.
Thanks!
Thought honda used blue coolant.
@@Fyxxterzc The factory coolant is Blue. However, the formula for it is similar to most other Japanese brands. For example, I used Honda factory coolant in Toyotas and Mazdas often due to how much extra I had amassed over the years. The key is knowing what types of coolants and additives do not mix well with others. Dexcool for example should not be mixed with conventional or import types.
It shows how easy Honda tech have it.
As a 27 year master mechanic, this video is an example of text book repairs and procedures. Nice job!!
Thanks!
master 😄
It's the name of a certification @@kevwills858
Does the car come with a timing belt?
My 2011 Ram has 283,000 miles, 2012 Subaru has 142,000. I've been a mechanic for 45 years. I have also bought and flipped many cheap vehicles. I enjoy doing this and making a few dollars profit is nice. Thank you for an enjoyable video !
In my opinion- most reliable 200k car is going to be a Lexus. It's simply built better. Your thoughts?
Toyota, Honda, and Subaru cheap base models would be my first choice for a lower cost buy in on a 200,000 mile auto that I was trying to 'restore' like this to make it roadworthy and reliable. It largely depends on the particular model that one buys of course... not all models within those brands are going to perform identically.
@@melissachartres3219 I've got a Lexus with 270k miles. You are somewhat correct but actually Toyota brand is more reliable because Lexus tends to have a bunch of luxury features that go bad quicker. For instance, the entire suspension system had to be replaced because the stock version was a very expensive hydraulic adjustable-height design. Also the brake system is exceptionally expensive to replace compared to regular Toyota version. Other little parts are much more expensive to replace, i.e headlights and seats, because fewer Lexus are made so they're harder to find. But the engine and transmission are basically Toyota and those are rock solid.
99 4Runner. 513,000 miles. Runs great.
I'm way above you, I've had 4 Chevy vans to make it past 450,000 miles without any major repairs. I've got a Toyota Corolla with 395,000 miles that the only repair was a water pump at 365,000 miles. I laughed when I saw this video was about 200,000 miles. That's nothing.
@@melissachartres3219 Yeah but the rear seats don't fold down in Toyotas and also they are hardly without problems. And when you DO have problems, all the parts for a LUXURY car are priced accordingly, and not available aftermarket for a low volume brand. I work on cars and a LAUGH at idiots who buy lexus, infiniti bmw kind of garbage at the salvage auction.
wow! as a mechanic for over 30 years both military and civilian i must commend you on how concise and correct your video is. most of the training videos i saw back in my school days could only dream of being this educational. to quote you, "very impressive!".
Thanks!
I didn’t blink through the entire video. Can we all acknowledge Project Farm is THE BEST channel out there! Bravo Todd👏
God its annoying when people ask "can we all acknowledge..." you aren't in charge of the class dude. Sit down
@@jerbear7952
Did your ass hurt? You want to run the show? Go ahead. “WE” owe you an apology. Sorry! Does it make you feel better? We are all here just watching videos and having a good time, hopefully gain a bit of knowledge along the way. Why do feel the need to make such comment? Just relax and feel the love man. Have a great day! 😘😘
@@peteryeung111Can we all acknowledge that starting a comment like that is just kind of annoying🎉
Absolutely!!
Thanks!
Old mechanic here - a couple of tips; when changing or bleeding brakes on older vehicles pushing the pedal to the floor can very easily destroy the master cylinder by running in an area that it has never gone to where rust builds up it can very easily cut the piston seal. Simply crack the bleeder valve and let it gravity bleed - it’s a bit slower but much safer and 2; when changing coolant simply squeezing the top hose is not sufficient to bleed the air out - with radiator cap off run the engine until it reaches running temperature (you will feel the top hose getting hot when the thermostat opens) and after air purges out top up radiator and replace radiator cap 👍
I'm a manager for one of the largest auto parts retailers in the world, I refer customers to your channel multiple times a day, and I can't wait for that OBD scanner episode!!!
OBDLink is a good brand. Wide selection.
@@brodriguez11000Thank you, what store is that available at?
@@JCbrewNweld Scantool and Amazon.
@@JCbrewNweld I have one, i got it from Amazon.
Bro just say you work at autozone
I swear you're the only RUclipsr I've ever seen tighten/torque strut bolts the proper way, by putting the assembly under compression before tightening. Bravo.
Probably a lesson he learned from experience! I know I have! Not to mention it's SOOO much easier to swap in a fully compressed assembly than trying to squeeze a spring onto a new strut. EUGH. Never trying that again!
I recently did all the struts on my Camry and made sure to preload before tightening. Took it to a shop afterwards for an alignment, and the guy found everything was still in perfect alignment.
Might be a dumb question. What does that mean to put the assembly under compression?
@@tylerk3616 you use a jack under that suspension component (ball joint) and then tighten down your strut to hub bolts. That way it's at its resting height as if the vehicle was sitting on its tires on the ground. Especially important for the control arm to frame bolts, less strain on the rubber bushings.
@@tylerk3616 Before you tighten the strut bolts, compress the spring by putting a jack under the control arm. This takes up the slop in the holes and makes sure the strut is aligned like how it will be when the strut is supporting the weight of the car.
That Civic is ready for the next 200K miles- well done! People should get in the habit of keeping what they have and maintain it well. It was $800 in parts but likely thousands more in labor to have a shop do it, so that was a great restoration.
Even if you have some (or all) professional assistance, given used car prices now, you're still coming out WAY ahead in a scenario like this.
Not always true about the labour especially in the hands of an experienced mechanic. I needed to have a CV axle, radiator hose, and shifter cables replaced. I had the choice to do it myself at a DIY garage that charges $30 Canadian per hour for lift access (I don't have a home with a garage), or pay $139 Canadian per hour to a shop that knows my car very well.
It only cost me $200 more to have the shop do the work than me trying to spend an entire weekend learning new stuff from A to Z with no idea on how long the work will take to complete. They even let me furnish many of the needed parts which have become harder to locate lately considering it's a discontinued Fiat 500 Abarth.
Great point!
yea, easily a thousand $ minimum in labor at the standard shop
@@75novaguy73 lol no more like 300
I have a 2007 Hyundai Sonata I bought for 13,500 and now has 305168 and just replaced the injectors and it still is running fine. One of the best cars I ever bought. Nice video, great to watch.
Thanks!
Wasn’t sure if I was watching Chris Fixit or Project Farm. Great video!
His voice speed and accent makes all the difference.
Thanks!
Neither it's Scotty Kilmer.
@@ProjectFarm It can go 1m miles
I do miss his videos - he hasn’t uploaded a worthwhile tutorial in forever.
My eyes were glued to the screen, there is nothing more satisfying than seeing an older car get some TCL and come out looking great.
Thanks!
TLC.
@@michaelcrockette8694BLT.
12:27 as the former manager of an independent repair shop, this is one of the most invaluable tips that very few people seem to consider. We had to pay to replace a customer's windshield after a tech (who knew better) decided to skip the towel/pad under the bare wiper arm.
Overall, great video and great technique! This is the kind of knowledge that we should be imparting upon people who are new to working on cars. There is a lot of garbage advice out there these days.
I watched the owner of the shop where I worked crack the windshield of a vintage Porsche 911 doing the same thing. He had no one to blame but himself.
Yep, I'm always very careful with a naked wiper arm!
Lol, broke mine that way.
When I worked at a parts store, we'd change hundreds of wipers a month. The trick we used is as soon as you've removed the old blade, place it on the windshield/hood in a way that if that arm snaps back, it smacks the old blade before the glass. Can't do it on every car, but you can on most, and it saves you from breaking a windshield without having to remember to bring anything extra outside with you.
Side note: It still amazes me how many people don't know how to change a wiper blade. Its something so simple on 99% of cars, yet you'd think it was rocket surgery or something. You can tell when they're asking you to change blades for them just because they're too lazy to stand out in the rain/snow and do it themselves.
i was a mechanic, my go to is just to never leave the arm up. if i need to let go at any point, the wiper arm is carefully coming down until im holding it again.
Great video! Young people need to learn how much buying a reliable used car instead of a brand new car will affect their financial future for years to come. This video shows them how to do it. Thanks for making it.
Thanks and you are welcome!
This is one of the best go-to consumer review channels on the Internet, if not the best. Project Farm deserves way more than 3.16M subscribers. This used car refurbish video explains this channels commitment to saving people money by buying quality and keeping things maintained.
Umm 3M+ is really big time. Most creators will be lucky to break 100k in their time
Thanks!
Been watching you for years now. As a certificated Aircraft Mechanic of nearly three decades I'm a bit of a mechanical "snob" and I have noticed that your mechanical abilities are top notch! I have often wondered what your past career experience has been. Aviation related by chance? In Aviation maintenance needs to be done correct the first time so I definitely notice quality when I see it. Kudos and keep up the GREAT work!!! Thanks Todd...
Thanks and you are welcome! I have no aviation experience.
I owned a Honda Accord and Honda Fit. Both were assembled in Japan. They both went over 200k miles without any major issues. I did all the normal scheduled services myself and saved a lot of money. I really enjoyed how brief but detailed this video was.
I have a 13 Civic made in Canada at 200k and still looks and feels like a new car. No leaks, rattles nothing.
I miss my honda fit...loved that lil car....but I bought a car I really wanted a 2020 civic si. Love that too but man my fit had so much utility
My 2010 Honda fit just hit 280k and is going strong (doesn’t look so pretty but who cares really? Go gen x). I’m already looking for another one, same year blue. Then I’ll use the old one for parts.
Partner had a honda jazz/fit she never a single drama with it. Turning circle was unreal too.
Would highly recommend one.
My current is an fit hybrid 2014, i love it
Project Farm is one of those channels that adds enormous value to RUclips as a media source/outlet. So much good honest advice and so well put together. Thank You!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Man, if I ever stumble upon you, be prepared to receive a huge hug. You’re the man!
That would be creepy for Todd.
my cat hugs you too!!
@@Unknown-pc9yq Nah, he'd take it in stride.
Parasocial relationships are very problematic for social media content creators like RUclipsrs. Us viewers have watched videos over long timespans, often years or over a decade. We feel like we've gotten to know the RUclipsr as we can see all their idiosyncrasies and we hear all of their vocabulary and sentence structure. It's like hanging out with a friend once a week for years. Except...the creator has no clue that you even exist. It's super jarring when you run into a fan who feels like they know you as a friend and they therefore feel comfortable treating you like a friend, but in reality you are total strangers. It would be strange for you to go up to a random guy in Walmart and suddenly bearhug him and just say "Dude you're so awesome, I'm so happy to meet you." This is what RUclipsrs face every day. Parasocial relationships have become a humongous, widespread phenomenon in today's world. Eminem's song about his biggest fan named Stan really hit the nail on the head back then.
@@mannys9130 Interesting. But random people in a store are likely not content creators and therefore would have zero reason to expect or anticipate that strangers would approach them out of nowhere. So obviously it would be very unnerving. Yet celebrities, music stars, sports personalities and yes, YT creators with millions of subs are well aware their names and faces are out there in the public. Of course, it doesn't mean any of those people want to be mauled by their adoring fans but they all learn to handle it in one way or another. Some sop up the adulation and revel in being recognized, some shirk it, and lots are in between. No doubt it takes a while to get used to it, but most probably do.
Hey Todd!
I just wanted to let you know that the RGVOTA battery bank that came with my awesome Very Impressive tee shirt, has been a life saver for a friend of mine.
An elderly lady who is having vehicle problems with her RV to the point where she is sort of stuck right now, is using it to keep her phone charged.
She'll walk it over to my campsite every few days so I can recharge it off of my solar.
Thanks again for being so helpful.
You really are a great blessing to many people.
Wow, that is amazing! Thank you for sharing that!
@ProjectFarm you are most welcome, my friend!!
By far one of THE MOST useful, informative, and comprehensive videos on the internet. You and Scotty Kilmer are saving the average american citizen time, money, and headaches with your honest and meticulous channels. The elites that want to financially enslave the world hate guys that teach others to be self sufficient. Keep up the great work.
Thanks, will do!
There is a whole world outside of the USA FFS.
Scotty ain't great. Lots of click bait and nonsense delivered with confidence.
Scotty is bs!
Kilmer is a clown lotta yelling and antics. Did the EPA shut down his superfund site?
Yet another voice thanking you for the efficiency of this format. Too many RUclipsrs don't respect viewers' time. Thank you!
PF, you are a legend.
First and primarily you are showing people a more affordable option for vehicles, when money is tight and saving money saves peoples stress.
Secondly you are saving the planet, by showing how a fundamentally good car, with a bit of maintenance, can give a heap more service, delaying the production of a whole new vehicle and the ~6 tons of carbon emissions associated with that!
Thanks!
I've tried watching many auto repair videos online and most are a mix of terrible instruction, old man rambling, terrible lighting, low resolution. I've learned more in this one video that any other videos I've watched. If you ever decide to do more comprehensive repair videos like this that are clear, to the point, with good visuals, I'd be happy to pay for it and I'm willing to bet I'm not the only one.
Why haven't you learned how to find good videos on youtube?
Well said!
Dude, The most efficient video and car repair I have ever seen. You get right to the point with no BS. Good shots of what you are fixing and quick editing! If I lived near you, you would be my mechanic. I have been working on my own cars since I was 17 (1970) and have saved hundreds of thousands doing the same kind of repairs for me and my family. New cars are so over priced why would you want to spend your hard earned money on them. A car is a hole in the road in which you throw money! Great job keep up the good work!
Thanks, will do!
Be Nice To Host & DO Some Repairs 4 rv TraveLers, Of Course With $$ UpFront, & a 😂Written 5-page Document😢 Stating as iS, 33-minute 33 Mile Warranty Lol
He's Like The Martha Stewart Of MechanicaL Testings Lol
Watch you all the time and I think this is a great video. I’m a 71-year-old do it yourself kind of guy and you help me pick a lot of products that are time and money saving . Thanks
Thanks!
He gets right to the point, and STAYS to the point; no war stories or self-aggrandizement, videos are fast-paced, test methods focus on core performance, not bells and whistles or personal preference, and are often simply brutal., cost of purchasing is always considered, top notch production quality- clear annunciation, proper mic and camera placement, well-lit sets, no annoying MUSIC. Should be promoted as a model of “How to do a RUclips channel right”.
Great Video, I'm an automobile dealer in NC and this is exactly how we go over every vehicle. Project Farm is definitely one of my favorite RUclips channels and keep making more videos like this one! Thanks
Fantastic video! I have a 2013 Acura TL with almost 205,000 miles on it. Other than maintenance items (which I keep up with religiously), it amazingly still has got all it's original parts. I also keep it clean and detailed inside and out. I just took it for it's yearly safety inspection and the technician commented to me how impressed he was at the condition of my car. I do most the mechanical and all the detail work myself thanks to learning from RUclips channels like this one.
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Love Acuras, I have a 2013 TSX 160k miles and it just eats the miles up, have lost zero efficiency still gets well above what’s it rated for gas mileage wise as long as I’m not always gunning it lol everytime I get it inspected or when I had the brakes done (everything else I’ve done myself) I’m told it’s got plenty of life left.
@@cartere9981 That's awesome! I was looking at TSX's before getting the TL. I'd still love to get a TSX sport wagon though.
The best RUclips creator for DIY in the history of YT. Thank you.
Thanks and you are welcome!
I learned something new today. I have never heard of 3rd clutch pressure switch . I have a 2004 camry with 301K miles and 2007 Lexus LS460 with 171K miles.
Thanks for the feedback.
I am happy that someone with your experience has time to share his knowledge on RUclips
Thank you!
Timestamp @ 1:21
Mechanic tip: most of those plastic harness retainer barbs are easily squeezed in with the boxed end of a 10mm combination wrench. Slip the box end over the barbs, wrench will squeeze both barbs in enough to pull the retainer out of the hole.
Thanks for sharing!
Is that the same with Toyotas?
Excellent video. 10/10 hands down. Ive own a car shop for 20 years and all the advice here are top notch and performed and explained with perfection.
Thank you!
I love how fast the video is. Astonishing amount of information in a 19-minute video.
Thanks!
His fast, high pitch voice reminds me of Scotty Kilmer.
Right! Love the magic of editing. Makes it look as if all this work was super quick. Probably took the better part of a month spread out to do it all.
This definitely goes into the top channels out there on RUclips. What a fantastic resource for years to come. Thank you so much over and over again.
You are welcome!
PF is the goat. Rebuilds an entire car in 15 minutes with enough detail that even experienced people learned a thing or two. Very impressive.
Thanks!
Not exactly a rebuild 😅
Can confirm, the 8th generation civics' are unbelievably reliable and cheap. After-market or even some OEM parts are a bargain and nearly every repair is doable at home with basic tools. We've been driving the same one since new, over 275,000 miles, just purchased a second one for my girlfriend. Plan to drive them till the frame rusts out (can't do much about that here...)
Thanks for sharing.
Until recently my son was driving a 98 civic dx that was beat near to death.
Then he pulled out the threads with the spark plugs.
Not sure how long it will sit in the yard before he admits he'll never get around to fixing it.
I've got a 2007 at 175,000 and I feel like it just got broken in.
of course, any honda after 2010 is a piece of junk. My ex's started falling apart at 110k. Josh's engine had to be replaced at 60k and Renee's engine had to be replaced at 80k. (All OEM/no mods, no racing, with proper maintenance). Plus you can just count how many are broken down on the side of the highway. I usually see up to 3 on a round trip to the store. Even consumer reports and JD Power are admitting that honda isn't reliable anymore.
@@BryanPeretto maybe a controversial opinion but between the V6 automatic transmission nuking themselves in the early 2000s and then the D17 overheating in the Civics then the late 00s hybrid Civics having HORRIBLE battery failure and the Odyssey following up in the early 2010s with transmission issues and other issues, I don’t think that Honda actually was all that great in the 2000s. Think 1990s was their best. Past 2010 they started to get better again.
you have really a really clear speaking voice and do a good job of clearly showing what and where youre doing somthing on what specific part. its made me realize that repairs on my car can be done so much easier than i expected. Id love to see more videos like this just focusing on common repairs/replacements, especially on models that share smiliar parts/engines with ither models
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
2003 Volvo S60; 349814 miles; engine is leak free, transmission shifts smooth, only wear items replaced since 2003 other than wiper motor and factory defective DIM module. I LOVE this channel- great job Todd... you too Cousin Eddie :)
They don't make new Volvos like they used to.
@@n9wox I'm in 100% agreement with you. The P2 Volvos are solid; I also like the 'boxy' 760 / 850 / S70s
Volvo's can last a long time, also... but usually seem to have wiring problems.
You are what everyone wishes their mechanic was: knowledgable, skilled, and honest! More videos like this would be very welcome.
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
This channel is amazing. In 18 minutes he showed how to fix and keep your car running and show just the important parts and didn't cheap out. Bought the original part so that he knows it will work without problems.
Some other channel take 18 minutes to tell you nothing 🤣
Great video. I fast forwarded through much of it but still got the point. I have a 2008 Honda Accord w 2.4l 4-cyl. 344,000 miles and still runs great. Never had the engine light come on. Only major maintenance was timing chain replacement at 220,000 miles and replaced power steering pump. Original transmission with no issues. Been absolutely reliable vehicle. Shooting for 500,000 before I trade it in.
Thanks! Nice!
My favorite thing to do is revive an old abused vehicle. Eliminating the cheapest variables first, you nailed it in this video. Always appreciated!
You're welcome!
All you've tried to do since the first video is help people! First with how-to vids, then with product reviews. Now with 3M viewers you've done it on such a large scale you will never be able to fully grasp the effect you've had. THIS video will inspire many to tackle auto repairs and will be life-changing for some. Just amazing.
Also, I've seen longer videos that only cover ONE of the repairs you demonstrated! I truly appreciate your editing prowess and lack of superfluous chatter.
Thanks!
My father owned a garage for over 50 years so I'm well versed on maintenance and you did well. You are the first person I've seen other than myself who placed a towel or similar on a windshield to keep the spring loaded wiper arm from causing mayhem.
I too, have placed the towel on the windshield, for about 55 years! When I ran Auto Repair Shops, I met a few customers who broke their windshield , when the wiper arm got away and hit the glass!
Thanks for sharing.
I just learned this lesson the hard way a couple weeks ago… I will forever put something soft and bulky down from now on!
What a fantastic channel. I am a retired middle school math teacher. The last year I taught the principal came to me and asked me to create a class where the students could learn practical applications to living and surviving life. Your channel was part of my curriculum. Thank you.
Thanks and you are welcome!
I just bought my 17 yr old son a 2014 Chrysler 200 HT convertible. It wasn't perfect but he loved it when we went to go see it. Took it home and slowly doing improvements on it to what it is now. More that anything I've been enjoying the process doing it together with my son.
Great cars, although the transmissions are hit or miss on reliability (although most things are, I suppose). The 2.4l gets a lot of hate too but as a detailer I've seen plenty with over 200,000 miles.
One of my favorite videos you ever posted. I’m in the used car business and this is a great video to show people if you buy a used vehicle on a budget, and your mechanical. You can make it into a very good vehicle.
Thanks for sharing!
If it ain't rusted out
I love the super-concise, high-speed look at repair work. I'd love to see more, especially diagnosing issues, small engine stuff, shop tools, etc. things like making the fluid extractor are great, too. Thanks for another informative and enjoyable watch!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Heres a tip for you Todd. Whenever replacing a thermostat take a drill bit and drill two or three holes in the thermostat that way you will always have coolant flowing if the thermostat sticks. It could save you an engine some day.
Thanks for the tip.
As my father always said, the cheapest car to own is the one you already have. Fixing up an older car you already have is much cheaper than a new car (obviously as long as there are no issues that would just be cost-prohibitive), especially if you can do the work yourself. Great videos as always!
I have an 18-year-old car with nearly 260,000 miles on it. I got it when it was 5-years-old and had 60,000 miles on the odometer. Regular cleaning and maintenance has kept it on the road. I use OEM, or high quality name brand, parts on it; no cheap chain-store junk for me.
Thanks! Thanks for sharing
My dad never taught me how to turn a wrench so I find this so fascinating. I could watch you do this all day long.
Its dirty, not difficult. You learn all the swear words and invent a few extra just in case. Its how you impress your woman.... =)
Thanks for sharing!
You don't need to be taught. Just grab a wrench and start turning. Luckily now there is a RUclips video for almost everything if you get stuck.
I knew a bit before but taught myself a lot on my 98 4Runner mostly thanks to RUclips. Rebuilt the entire suspension as well as some other things. Sadly I wrecked it two weeks ago but now I have an 03 Sequoia to wrench on. 90% of wrenching is just elbow grease really, especially on stuff outside of the engine.
Wrench Turning 101:
Righty Tighty
Lefty Loosy
You've now been taught. 😏
As someone who has done a CV joint replacement in an equipped shop with the tutelage of a competent mechanic, you make this stuff look SO EASY. I would definitely be paying for this level of work.
Thanks for the feedback.
Greasing the ceramic of the spark plug is a new one to me. Makes sense, and thanks for the tip...
You are welcome!
You nailed it on the head. "With regular maintenance" the question is a) the cost of the regular maintenance for the parts needed. b) the skillset and toolset to do that required maintenance.
The big thing is having the skills to do the work. If I tackled this kind of project. I'm not ashamed of having a copy of Haynes or Chilton on hand to get all the repairs done correctly.
Thanks for the video it was a lot of fun to watch.
*ALWAYS* read the manual! They don't just write those things for fun, they're a hugely important resource.
Dude, you’re awesome. You deserve all the success you’re (hopefully) having. Your videos are pure public service.
Hes an International treasure!
As always, one of...if not THE...most informative and useful channels on RUclips!!
Thanks so much for your content, brother!!
Watch the price of 2008 Honda Civics go through the roof. 😂 Quite surprised myself how reliable and easy the mechanical parts were to change.
What are the others?
Thanks so much!
It's insane to me that this channel doesn't have over 10 million subscribers
$500 dollar vehicles are nearly impossible to find since covid and up here in the north, rust is a bigger problem than the miles
Great point!
The problem is you sell a vehicle to someone in "need" for $500, then they turn around and sell it for 1500-2k.
During the Obama administration, the used car market was devastated. I knew a guy who worked at a BMW dealership who was disgusted that they had to pour something in the engine to destroy it on cars traded in under that "Cash for Clunkers" program.
Even in SoCal you can't find one without issues. Even cars with blown engines sell too high.
@@plkracer that's fairly accurate. I saw a guy selling an HHR panel for $1000 with transmission issues. Someone bought it put new tires and an odometer with fewer miles and selling it for $4500. I reported it.
This past week I had my 2003 Toyota Tacoma totaled by a tree during High winds. Car shopping these days with these prices is insane. I’m thinking about buying an old vehicle with a medium amount of miles, and these videos are invaluable.
Thanks for sharing!
Wow, that sucks.
My favorite RUclips channel of all time!
Thanks Todd, for saving everyone money and time, you are a living legend! Also, huge thanks for sharing the financial sensibility of maintaining an older vehicle, saying what people need to hear and understand.
I drive a 2004 and everyone wants me to upgrade, but I feel exactly as you do, you perfectly explain the logic behind keeping a good old car on the road, thank you! 😊
Would love to see more like this! Love how you point out how much more expensive it is to buy a new car than a very used one. My wife and I just picked up a Silverado 1500. It had 165000 miles and that worried my wife but I told her they are reliable (mostly) and I can do just about anything to it.
You should post the portion on making the mason jar vacuum separately. I will definitely do that.
One of my favorite RUclips stars....Great job
Some extras:
-new coolant temp sensor
-clean and pressure wash the radiator inside and outside
-new upper O2 sensor
-take out and clean the crank and cam sensors
-unplug and clean all electrical connectors
-clean the engine grounds
-replace the PCV valve
-check for loose and cracked rubber vacuum hose
-clean the EGR assembly
-engine flush(old oil) + Motorkote engine treatment(new fresh oil)?
-add some sound deadening material @ trunk, floor, engine bay, wheel wells , doors
-LED headlights bulbs
-change the speakers with some new mid priced ones...they make a difference
-get some lightweight alloy wheels to help with rotation mass for improved performance and MPG
- rust prevention aka: CRC Corrosion Inhibitor or similar
wait I thought egr only on diesel cars, now I have to check mine
@@eidragno, many gas cars have EGR systems.
@@eidrag egr is common on gassers too. It isnt harmful like it is on diesels though, cause gas cars dont produce soot
Definitely clean the grounds! Most neglected connection on cars.
I just did a similar "restoration" like this on a 200k mile Honda Odyssey minivan. I would guess the parts and labor I put into it would have cost 10 grand at a dealership but I worked on it in my spare time and only spent a little over a grand on parts. It is very rewarding to give an old vehicle a new life.
Thanks for the feedback.
Fantastic video! I'm in the auto industry and so many people get rid of a good car, because their mechanic scared them with a high repair bill. If they learned how to do the work themselves, it would save a lot on labor costs. Most people are afraid to try to tackle it, because they're scared to damage something.
I love RUclips, because there are so many excellent videos of people willing to share how they do things. It's a great community and I'm so glad I found this channel. Please keep doing these videos - people can learn so much from them!
Thanks so much!
If u are really in the auto industry u would know some things better to let mechanic handle it, not everything you can diy by just watching a RUclips video
Fixing a car needs good tools. Not to mention a good jack. Repair shop use hydraulic lifters which made so much easier for a mechanic to work and prevent accidents. Many of us who are obese are struggling going the car or have to work on their knees
I have a 2009 Civic that had 250,000 miles on it at the beginning of July. My wife and I took it on a 3-week 6000-mile trip across the USA including climbing Pikes Peak. A reliable car is a wonderful thing to have.
As always, a home run, I don't understand why you don't have 10 million subscribers!! Love this channel
Because we Project subs are a lot smarter than "Average Bears". Todd'll get there, though.
Thanks!
My 2012 Expedition has 246k miles on and (knock on wood) she's still running like a champ. Bought her cheap because she had been VERY neglected but some new parts and elbow grease later and I have gone all over the midwest towing a boat and for family trips. About 60k miles over the last 3 years. The longer you run an old vehicle, the more it pays you back.
Nice!
people are not appreciating this man enough. what a multi talent!
3.1 million subs says otherwise.
I dont think you know what "not appreciated" means.
God people are dumb. He's hugely appreciated and has an enormous channel
This. Was. Amazing. I completely agree with this philosophy. My 2008 civic was purchased used for 1k with 140,001 & I’m repairing issue mostly myself. My 2001 rx300 was purchased for $500 with 307,000 miles. Minimal maintenance & runs like new
Thanks!
This was the perfect video for the times we are living in now .
I recently bought a 2004 rav 4 with 171 K miles and did the same type of maintenance she runs like a champion.
Great video
Thanks! Nice!
That's the BEST single video I've ever seen on basic repair ideas and cost valuation. Every teen should be required to see this. I'm in your camp on these ideas 1000%. Learn how to do stuff...and stay out of debt!
Thanks!
I recently sold my 1998 Ford f150, with the v6 engine. Only used mobile 1 oil, and took good care of it in Colorado, and it helped me move my stuff to San Diego...when I sold it, it had almost 300,000 miles on it, and was still running strong 💪
Thanks for sharing.
Oh hell yeah! Car maintenance videos like this? Love it. And with everyone needing to save a few dollars here and there and stretch the life of our cars this is super important info. Can't say enough good things.
Thanks!
Just wow. It's a video tutorial of most car DIYers out there. It's a full pack of strategies and is so informative. And the effort is overwhelming. Thank you ☺️
You are welcome!
Northerner from the rust belt here! the lack of rust on this 15 year old civic is envious. 😮
Thanks for the feedback.
Todd, You and many of us think like you when it comes to vehicles. I have a 2006 Mercury Mariner that I bought new for my wife. After she got a new Ford Edge; I used the Mariner for work. I had to put a new engine in it at 234,000 miles due blown head gasket. I did basically the maintenance you did on your Honda. I now have 324,000 miles on it and still running strong. Yay Project Farm!
Thanks for sharing.
I got a 2010 Camry pre covid for a great deal as a commuter. It’s making a terrible noise on start up mostly when it’s cold. When I bought that car I had no idea how expensive everything would become and that I’d need it for awhile but she needs alotta love. This is making me want to tackle the project.
Thanks for the feedback.
Wow. You've made these repairs seem SO approachable. I've been a long-time fan of yours, but this is another level. Bravo!
Thanks!
One of the most USEFUL channels on RUclips. Everyone should be subscribed.
Thanks!
The depth of knowledge in this video is huge, god only knows how many hours it took you to learn enough to do the task so efficiently.
Respect.
naaah i bet he has above average IQ..he would learn these in a couple on minutes!
I have that same 2008 Honda Civic with only 90K miles driven by my mother-in-law so I know it wasn't abused. Mine suffers from the paint clear coat problem that plagued these cars. The clear coat wasn't thick enough and now the blue paint looks grey. But otherwise, it's a great and reliable car.
Here's a tip. If you ever need to replace the starter motor, I'd go to a garage unless you have access to a lift. You really need to use both hands to do the job. I'm a pretty experienced mechanic and it took me a stubbornly 2 days to do the job lying on my back.
Great video! Keep em coming.
Thanks, will do! Thanks for the feedback.
This is absolutely a series I could all day everyday. This is a great idea brother hopefully we get some more videos like this 🙏
More to come! Thank you!!
The best RUclips channel of all time by far.
Thank you very much!
Todd, I’ve done a lot of this in my time, but you have devoted a ton of time to give inspiration to all that are willing. Thank you for this channel.
I like how you do,straight to the point, in my family wee have 4 cars and most of the repairs I do, I have most of the tools to repair vehicles, my son is learning from me and Dr. RUclips guys like you. THANK YOU
My pleasure!