*GOOD NEWS!* - Local dealer took the guy in no question asked and fixed his truck based off our educated guess. Really unusual because they usually won't accept a diagnosis from a non "GM Master Tech." Strange times for sure 😉
How embarrassing! The GM trained dealer technician at the Chevrolet dealer couldn’t find such a simple thing as this. Yet the guy at the two man, one lady, one cat, 3 bay Napa Auto care shop in Avocado NewYork, population 1990, found it while sitting in the driver’s seat filming a RUclips video!
Yeah, that’s super embarrassing for a dealership full of tools, humans and scan tools. They should seriously reevaluate their business model and people they hired.
@SIGINT007 ya techs paid 18$ hr flat rate, sorry but you can't make ends meat with that pay doing diagnostic that only pays 1 hr. Simply put doing diagnostic work as a dealer tech doesn't make you money
@@royalblood2405 A point often not understood is even if you see a Dealer's Shop Rate of $125/hr the Techs are usually paid only a fraction of that.Other expenses eat that hourly up fast- all the departments in the building EXCEPT the office HAS TO MAKE MONEY to pay the salaries and bills
This guy is a once in a lifetime mechanic. He can fix not only the "mechanical" issues but has the super high intelligence needed to understand all these modern over-engineered systems in cars to find the problem.
I am referring to Ford F150 in this comment. My 2016 back in June started to act strangely regarding the Trans. indicator. I could change gear selector and many times nothing would happen. It started OK and ran OK but the Start/Stop feature had stopped working about two years ago. I knew it needed a certain battery strength to function properly. even with the multiple 100 mil round trips I was driving at the time one would expect the system to be better. Without pressing my luck I purchased a new battery and I had a new truck again. The transmission shifted better, the S/S feature started working again, and no screwy indicators anymore. I got 7+ years out of my battery with 33k miles. This Chevy is 4+years old with 35k miles so it might be due for a new battery. I won't speak to the fact Eric O included a battery charger to the mix and do not understand what the switch at the ground side of the battery has to say if the battery is weak with an artificial charge added to the battery.
Eric, people are always telling you how great of a mechanic you are and while I’d agree, I never comment to say so. However, in this instance, I am extremely impressed with how you approached this issue with the acknowledgment of having little experience with the GM system and capably found the problem. The GM tech who previously diagnosed this issue seemingly took the easy way out and recommended a battery which clearly would have failed to solve the problem. The people who live near you who can access your shop are lucky. It’s not everyday we find specialists who are capable, determined, and professional. Great work and while you’ll never service any of my vehicles, you’re my go to source! I appreciate you!
Hello fellow Florida man. This is what we call treating the system and it is in every profession, doctors, home builders, software engineers and mechanics all have a large populations of doing so. This is why dealer service centers and even independent ones, do the "parts cannon" method and just throw parts at the most common symptom issue and work their way down the list. Erik aint got no time for that, and thats why he goes for the cause and not just taking symptoms at face value.
Thanks for not saying I am a great mechanic! It does get very annoying reading that when I know the truth and literally hundreds of guys in the shop that are ten times better than I'll ever be. At the end of the day this was a simple fix and an easy diag. in my opinion. I swear I could fill up a tire with air and the people would be amazed at the skill level haha. But seriously I appreciate all my viewers and commenters 👍
I remember the video. Of bad ground cable. Was great video showing the step by step process. I’m a technician. But for electrical systems. Your troubleshooting skills are on fire.
I will never own another one! They are absolute junk and I have been a diehard Chevy guy since the 80s. They destroyed the "Like A Rock" brand. Now it should say "Like A Total Piece of 💩" proudly brought to you by Chevrolet.
I think many have commented on the RUB (Rust Under Belly) issue here; Chevy owners treat and cover the sills asp, even if your truck is like brand new. 🧐
Every new generation just keeps getting worse. I put front brake pads on a 19 Silverado yesterday(OEM pads were 80% pad remaining but squealed like a pig). Did everything as normal, and just doing pads set off a Christmas tree of lights on the dash. I had to clear codes out of the abs, steering and ecm modules.
@@wiuser1745 When you live in the salt belt, brand name means nothing. They all rot till they turn to junk. Vehicles were never designed to survive being doused in corrosive salt for months at a time.
Here’s your comment from the old guy in Illinois…… I am 68 and a former mechanic starting at age 16. I was very green, but learned from the old-school guys in the shop. I knew where you were going two minutes into the video. And best of all I understand you’re clear concise methodical diagnostic method. Period. Keep up the great work youngster.
Well done from a retired mechanic. You identified the problem because you understand the system, know there are extras in the system which the computer sees but the programmers have not codified if there is an irregularity, know how to read a electrical diagram, know what wire(s) should have power or ground and in which circumstances, know what inspection/electrical tool to use (safely), know where to find the wires to back probe and know how to interpret the results. That process may have been relatively simple for you but there are many, many techs out there who would not have a clue where to start, other than saying the battery needs to be replaced. You have great skills. Keep up the teaching. We in the field have learnt/are learning a lot from you. Mrs O is also a good scout. You make a good pair.
Dealer: No codes, means we can't fix it. Eric: No codes, means we identify the cause by determining what is different,odd,unusual between what is working (Starts in Neutral) compared to what's not ( No Start in Park)
Code(s) give them a flowchart to "guide" them. To check continuity of a wire, they're instructed to disconnect both ends! Anyone who follows Scanner Danner, aka Paul Danner, knows how to verify wires without digging down to the computer disconnecting the plugs, then test. Paul's method will have it done in 5 minutes or less. Flowchart, .5 hour later, wire is confirmed good. Next item is "replace the ECU. No way could it be a sensor shorted to ground pulling the who 5v reference circuit down!!
The dealer couldn't fix it because it didn't throw a code and the technicians (Cough!) cant fix anything that doesn't throw a code for them to start the swap tronics process. Good work from a guy than understands more than a check engine light.
This is the problem with a lot of dealer mechanics(not all of them). If it doesn't tell them on the computer what is wrong, they have no idea. They wouldn't even know how to back prob like you did. Great video Eric.
IME most main dealers are utterly incompetent when it comes to anything slightly outside the ordinary and they are criminally overpriced. I suppose this at least gives a lot of space of independent places like SMA to thrive.
Something about mechanics like Eric and Rainman Ray. They actually do the dirty work of diagnostics instead of loading the parts cannon or just "idfk go somewhere else"
@@Rekuzan , it's pretty disgusting that "stealerships" continue to get away with this nonsense. They're so "WE KNOW YOUR VEHICLE BEST!!" That's only because it's been in 27 times for the same problem right?!🙄It's criminal just as much as the lousy manufacturers of these vehicles that design such garbage knowing it's going to fail in short order and the customer gets stuck with the bill after paying tens of thousands for these piles of junk. I recall the simplicity of older vehicles, those which still had good safety features without the added electrical garbage such as "push-button start, engine brake stop/start, parking assist, shift by wire transmissions, electronic parking brakes etc."
@@Friend_of_the_One-Eyed_Ladies Yeah, Rainman makes a lot of mistakes if you are familiar with the car he is working on. A recent video where he worked on a CR-V, he was just parts changing rather than making the correct, informed repair that would actually last and that was needed. If you don't know, you don't know. I am very familiar with that particular engine so I knew - is there other stuff in other videos on cars I don't know where he does the same? Probably, based on the comments.
Please update us on the status of the dealership repairing the truck. I'm seriously invested in the outcome of this. Great informative video as usual. 👍🏾
One of the few channels where one episode is going into electrical diagnosis then another episode is banging rust suspensions parts out with big nasty. Love it
What a way to wake up in the morning. A cup of coffee while watching Eric O. diagnosis an electrical problem! An educational and entertaining video. Thank you for posting!
Not only did you find and fix the problem,you made a video and taught us how you did it as well. Something the dealer failed to do,twice! Very impressive. Thank you and take a bow.
Eric, last year my grandson got a job at the local Chevrolet dealer in the parts dept. For three months I rode him to and from work until he was able to buy a car from the dealership. Every afternoon I would arrive early to pick him up, and I would sit in my truck and wait for him to quit. In those three months that I sat there, you would be amazed at how many very very new Silverados I saw come in on a rollback for repair. The tow truck driver would take the keys into the service dept. and leave. Shortly after that a gentleman would come out and put a tag with a four digit number on the rear view mirror. I remember when Chevies were like they said like a rock reliable, no more.
Oh man, I can just imagine the "Master Class" advertisement video with Eric O and all his best quotes that would be amazing. Someone should edit that together just for giggles.
This gets an A+. Nailed the initial diag (NSS/NSS related) Nailed the full surface diag (Pulling the schematic, comparing it to scanner data, finding a potential fault). and NAILED the damn confirmation (replicated the issue along side the test light to confirm no continuity to GND during no-start condition). Parts replacers hate these diags, real techs eat them up. Props to you for the proper diag and proper explanation, all within a 20min video.
These new machines are a repairpersons gift. So many switches, connections and a collection of check back processes, there is more likely to be something wrong...all the time. These videos just show that the day of "driving these machines out" are long gone. Long live my rusted out but mechanically sound 2002...the last GM I will ever buy. Old machines are worth a hard look if you don't know a mechanic on a first name basis. Thanks Eric...for the confirmation NOT buying new is the right thing to do.
Eric O. - doing what the fine folks at S-R seemingly can’t do - diagnose! I use your example of the 2019 Chevy Truck with the bad ground strap in my Electrical Fundamentals class all the time when we discuss voltage drop testing. This one was even more basic than that. Well done, sir!
YES! The ground strap had corroded and the dealership had generated a list of the parts that they said needed replacement. Eric had his daughter, Trinity, come out and turn the steering wheel while he watched is instrumentation and traced the problem to the corroded ground strap. PRICELESS!
Best trouble shooter i have ever seen and I have seen a lot of different issues, was a arbitrator for a large auto auction for years. South main is a great asset for his customers.
This is what you call a successful and smart mechanic and I bet you he’s number one in his state… hands down I’ve been watching your videos for a long time. You have some type of power 👌🏻
This man should be the standard for all mechanics. I hope you start your own school so younger generations know how to be true mechanics. Great video keep them coming.
Car tekkies no longer and its been a while now, need to go to wrenches, they need to diagnose the electronics, and training is not strong enough, unlike Eric who has taken the time to become very competent with wiring diagram, code readers, scope. This is what creates great business opportunities for tekkies, dealers should be trading to this standard or we the public pay for parts while they attempt to fault find.
Jaysus H. Christ Eric, the last time I checked your hourly rate was something like $90? You should be charging Ford, GM and Stellantis $1,000 an hour to deal with the problems they can't solve. You have a natural intelligence that could be applied across so many industries and vocations - thank you for sharing your talents!
The Chevy should be embarrassed that an independent mechanic can figure out what is wrong with the truck. It shows how the people at these dealership are not mechanics. Eric O you are indeed a certified mechanic and take the time to fix the real issue with the vehicles. On the plus side all the owner of this truck needed to do is show what was wrong with this truck is to show them this video. As alway Eric O you are definitely a true honest mechanic. 100% appreciate you and your experience along with knowledge.
The dealer is probably lucky to have anyone wrenching for them these days, let alone competent diagnosticians. Kids today don't want to work in the first place, and dealers don't want to, or can't afford to pay decent wages anyway. New vehicles are way overcomplicated and overpriced, despite being basically disposable. The good old, tried & true pickup is headed down the same road. You can blame CAFE standards for some of it, but the consumer's desire for more & more shiny bells & whistles is also to blame. Guess I'll just stick with my good old fashioned Panther era "grandpa-mobiles". 😁
I'm no mechanic, but Iv'e rescued a few motorists with dead cars in rest areas and parking lots with the suggestion to try and start the vehicle in neutral. Good work Eric.
You saw the OEM scan tool data, everything looked perfect. This is why going to school to learn something and passing the tests doesn't mean you really understand the thing you learned.
@killer2600 I know technicians that have little ability to troubleshoot without a diagnostic tool. Idc how much higher they are, if they can't apply it after something is diagnosed they are only a little better than the tool used. I'll take a guy like Eric over a straight tech any day.
It's pretty sad that newer vehicles have these issues so frequently, and even more sad that the "trained professionals " at the dealerships and other mechanics are so quick to skip over proper diagnostics and revert right to making guesses while throwing parts at a vehicle. Parts which are not even faulty, and those costs get passed down to the customer, even after the original problem is still there. Thank God we have people like this gentleman at South Main Auto that take the time needed to research and hunt down the actual issue so the customer can get their issues fixed without loading a full magazine into the 'parts cannon'. You do an amazing job, and you are a true expert in the industry sir!
Excellent diagnosis as always. Enjoy your channel. And by the way, I've bought my last GM product. I had a 2014 Silverado and it had AFM problems, oil pressure problems and the thing rotted away. I traded it for a 2021 Colorado and after about a week it developed a shudder at highway speeds. Took it back to the dealer because it was under warranty and they did a transmission flush and fill. The fluid that came out of it was extremely dirty. It helped for about 2 days and the shudder came back. Took it back to the dealer and now they're telling me that it was normal. Go figure. Contacted GM and they refuse to help. Needless to say, GM products are junk. Don't buy.
I wonder what age group of mechanics does that dealer have working at it... and where are the senior mechanics on problems like this? You made that diagnosis appear so simple, a true artist Eric!
Unfortunately senior mechanics have probably retired. This was such an easy diagnosis you can tell the dealership just tried to start it a couple of times and just wanted to get rid of the customer. As easy as it started you can clearly see nothing is wrong with the battery 🤦🏿♂️
Senior techs have mostly left the dealers for better paying less stressful jobs. Now it's just kids selling filters, brake pads and flushes. With labor rates at $200 per hour .
You are simply amazing. This is why I don't bring anything to the Dealer or to any of our shops around here. They never ever get it right. I end up spending a ton of money, waisting a ton of time and then fixing it my self (with your help).
I've commented on it before, but regardless of your skills in the nuts and bolts area (which are excellent), your diagnostics skills are worth whatever you charge. Well done.
I dealt with those Superduty trucks on a daily basis until two months ago. If you think they are better quality you are going to get a wake up call.@@natgasf7236
@@natgasf7236 So you freely and willingly decided to buy a truck overpriced by $25k (at least) in this hyperinflated market to help KEEP prices ridiculously sky high. Thanks pal, American consumerist mindset at its finest.
@@sblagg527 Really dude? I actually own six vehicles, two motorcycles. I worked 70 hrs a week for 41 years and now at 71 I buy what I want. Sad that you feel the need to try to shame people for what they have and you obviously can’t afford.
You are more qualified to write software code than the people doing it now as they obviously do not understand the whole system. I had 40 years of programming experience and saw endless examples of the same lack of "system" knowledge. Great video!
Great diagnostic, Eric! Much better and faster performance than the dealer - I would love to see them shove a battery into that transmission mode switch 🙂
"Who remembers when vehicles just had keys, no theft stuff?" I do, you turned the key, which actuated a rod, which activated the ignition switch. Ah, those were the days. Nice troubleshooting Eric!!👍👍
I love how you manage to break problems down. That is the key to identifying a solution. There was a lot of application of logic, and knowledge gained from experience required to figure out to perform this "simple diagnostic".
Great job, Eric. While there is zero excuse for the dealer techs to miss that problem, as P/N no starts have been a thing since forever, people need to understand the process the dealer techs have to go through. At my time at the dealer, I had zero say in how to diagnose warranty repairs. Even the most basic faults required emailing back and forth with a factory engineer, being told step by step what tests to perform and ultimately, after days of this drawn out process, they might send out a regional engineer. It's ridiculous and why I no longer care to work for dealerships.
OR, you could diagnose and fix it on your own while going through their song and dance. You can do what they are telling you AND do your own test at the same time.
@@frotobaggins7169 and that's ultimately what happens but after awhile of turning warranty labor hours (which are about half of customer pay hours) at the end of the day most of what you're doing is free labor. For some reason most techs don't have much motivation to work for free. At that point they can leave (what I did) or they just don't much care to fix anything under warranty. And unfortunately, that happens a lot.
I think the real problem comes from places giving these usually easy "no crank/no starts" to lower techs that dont have the proper leadership backup that when the tech cant figure something out they get no guidance to learn, they probably get put down in some way or told to be faster or to not waste time, instead of being mentored to seek out the answer. Dealerships, even GM have factory diagnostic tables/procedures at their disposal on their computers; they only need to sit down, click click and print and then run down the gauntlet of tests, narrowing results until the problem is found.
I can sympathize with your frustration as a dealer tech. I retired from field service for electrical distribution equipment. We also had to contact service reps who unfortunately were not located at the factory, nor did they have factory experience. I could sometimes see the remedy needed but the newby at the service center couldn't understand what I wanted to do so he wouldn't authorize the repair. After I tried the reps suggestions and failed to fix the machine, I would affect my fix and tell the rep his last idea fixed it.
Wow makes me want to go out and buy a Chevy truck. I wish the customer would drive it back to the dealer and insist they fix it, with their master trained technicians onsite. Drive it back and don’t tell them how it starts in neutral. That trying to start it in neutral trick has been around for decades, any dealership too stupid to at least suggest that (or know that)as a temporary workaround, they should be fired. Unless they’re 18 years old or younger
IMPRESSIVE Mr O. I am not shocked though. You are in my opinion the best mechanic I have ever seen, including myself. And I am old. Excellent diag video
Eric O isn't just a mechanic but a diagnostic technician as well. It is also comes from experience. Eric O is also intelligent to knowing cars especially Chevys.
Wondering if i could ask a question? I have 98 dodge truck 5.9l magnum. Paid alot extra for the OE cap, original had brass tips and the OE that i bought didnt have the brass tips but the cheapo tips. You think i got scammed on a rebox or do you know if thats the normal now? Thanks in advance.
Guy I know works at a Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep dealer service center. This situation is operating by design. They don't pay their techs to diagnose anything. Something like 0.25 hours to diagnose a no start - and that timer starts the moment you take the key, NOT once it's in the bay!
Eric, I'm no auto mechanic but I had very much the same problem on a minivan. As soon as you described it, I told my wife what it would be. As soon as you did the rocking/rolling drop into park and it started, then cycled back to the full stop shift and it didn't start, I was laughing out loud. Your working proving that by working through the wiring diagrams, then testing it with the light was all icing on the cake and great! Thanks so much for every one of your videos! I've been learning new things every time. Too bad I am past 70 and no longer in the workforce. But it sure helps me!
Been following for a decade now and commented only a handful of times. But when I do comment it is always because you blow me away with finding the “actual” problem with a vehicle and it don’t take you long. The Big O is GM own “ASE Certified” mechanics couldn’t find the issue but you did and the customer can show the RUclips video as proof! You are awesome!🤣🤣🤣🤣
Eric, watching you diagnose this issue makes the diagnostic look so simple. And must agree logically it is a simple diagnoses. Also stunned by the fact that, considering it was towed no one thinks to try neutral! Did you give the customer a copy of the video to take to the Shabby dealer? Great job. Great video, thanks as always
Eric, you simply understand how systems on a vehicle work. The scan tool can only point a person in the right direction if it can see a problem from it's point of view. This can be very helpful if the information is there. If no information is available with the scan tool, knowing how whatever system you are working on works is the only way to diagnose that system and is the only way to come up with a test to find what is not functioning properly. Great video as always.
I’ve always worked on my own stuff that was out of warranty. There have always been a few things I second guess myself while working on. Since I started watching your videos a long time ago, there’s not much I won’t give an educated shot at. Thanks for the quality of video you put out and the detailed explanations you give. Part swappers are easy to find, mechanics are rare.
Eric, you are truly a treasure to your local community and to the RUclips community! We’re blessed with your great videos and diagnostic skills, you’re great explanation of all aspects of the process, your humble nature and humor! I’ve leave a lot from your content and I appreciate all you do for the community at large!
Morning, thanks for another awesome video. I just wanted to say, i appreciate you sharing your work with us. I'm a mechanic of sorts (i maintain the equipment in a manufacturing facility) and your videos have enhanced my trouble shooting and diagnostic activities on several occasions. Thanks!!
After watching this clip, I am so glad I drive a car with a manual gearbox that only has a switch for the reverse lights.. Ah for the good old days when the most complicated thing in your car was the CD player!
I'm an industrial electrician your approach to diagnosing a problem is applicable to my field, too. Impressive skills, a phenomenal teacher, as well as entertaining.
Eric, this was a great diagnosis. What really surprised me is that NOBODY even thought to try starting the car in neutral. I am not a mechanic (computer engineer) but I have had quite a few different cars. Back in the day you just had a simple mechanical neutral safety switch that screwed into the transmission. Whenever a car would not start in park, I would first check to see if it would start in neutral.
Yep exactly. New automatic semi trucks these days are good for that. They don't recognize neutral and won't start. Especially if the last driver shut it off while in Drive. And in this case the Chevy wasn't recognizing Park. This was a good one from Eric!
Back-in-the-day my 1968 Fairlane had the neutral safety switch on the steering column next to the brake pedal. That thing would get out of adjustment and you had to hold the gearshift lever up while turning the key.
Well you're old and most of the dealer techs are young, they haven't learned things over time like you. They went to school to learn to fix cars but that doesn't mean they really have a deep understanding of how it works.
@@topfloorstudio2684 The early automated semi's would actually get stuck in gear. Supposedly, the transmission manufacturers have fixed that problem so that you wouldn't be stranded needing a tow/repair just because you turned the truck off while in gear. The automatic semi's are just like cars, just put the selector in neutral and it'll start no problem. Automated and Automatic transmissions are drastically different.
You truly are a Master Technician Eric! You can repair anything! I been a mechanic 38 years and enjoy your videos! I learn something new everytime! Thank you
I know my local gm dealer hires techs right out of school, and then let the senior techs go because they earn too much money. Doesn't make sense to me but that's is what they do. Great job on this one.
The boss says to you one day- "You've reached the limit on your hourly base rate,son." In other words no more raises,no matter what.This is why toolboxes have wheels.This is also why some dealers have not one senior tech. It's been this way forever.That's just the way it is.
I really don't think many of us out here could actually diag this one. You seem to have an ability to know where to look. I would be lost. lol Great vid.
I can't believe even dealers only have hacks in the service department. I never realized how bad the vast majority of hacks calling themselves "mechanics" were until I found this channel.
Dealers cant find Technicians like Eric rare guys out there of his caliber are working for themselves.....remember if it was easy we could all fix our own vehicles all the time.
@@stevedibiase728 Mechanics aren't "found" they're made. Short sighted, greedy stealerships aren't making the investment to turn a "technician" (aka hack) into a "mechanic."
Just love the way you knife and forked your way through this fault. I have been working on vehicles for many years and hadn’t realised many manufacturers have redundant switches - really learned something from this time - love your videos- keep them coming
Your are one of a very few heroes of mine on YT. As an electrical and process control guy as well as trainer your methods are exactly what I teach - logical and reasoned to divide conquer and eliminate. Eliminate the very unlikely quickly (i.e. don't worry about your spare tire if the car will not start) Take 15 things it could be par that down to the most likely 2 or 3. Your methods are sound and confirm power, ground, continuous circuit and low resistance connection. Your videos are very informative and worth the time invested every time!
You ain't kidding about rust, Eric! I'm in Scotland running a 2017 Volvo V40 (Based on the Ford Focus platform) knocking on for 200,000 miles and I have less rust than that 😮
Bravo! Your experience,knowledge, logic, and diagnostic skills made this fix appear simple. The people that say this was a simple fix are the same ones that aren't willing to pay for the experience, knowledge,logic and diagnostic skills of the gifted individual.
So glad to see a auto mechanic that can troubleshoot the electrical systems, I was a aircraft electrician for 20 yrs, I always told the new guys a good troubleshooter is worth his weight in gold.
You are the man! You have become many dealerships diagnostics guy, pretty darn sad that the dealerships don't have good quality mechanics and still charge an arm, a leg, one left eye, three teeth, and whatever is left in your wallet for poor service.
My first thought in the parking lot was "park switch is bad or slightly out of position...or it's not really going all the way into park every time and the shift cable/rod needs adjusting. Looking forward to seeing how this pans out. Edit: I was on the right track, but not good enough for a cigar. And this is why I'm in an armchair and not wrenching for a living. Nicely caught, Eric. 👍
This is why I don't work on anything newer than 2005 give or take early OBD2 cuz while yes my initial guess was correct that was the problem it was a guess and as soon as I started thinking about it in any further capacity than my guess it went down a rabbit hole fast too many computers too many sensors not enough actual active monitoring I would rip all of my hair out second guessing myself but give me anything Early 2000 to 1940 and I can get you squared away easy or at least be able to tell you exactly what the problem is Much respect to you Good sir You are what any mechanic should strive to be
Eric O, You need to have available just an underwassh clinic at your shop. Monthly washes underside for a reasonable price to regular customers. This can only make your job easier in the long term.
Eric, you are the man. Over the years of watching your videos. And seeing how others send/ bring you the ones they can not figure out. I know that if I was unable to figure it out, I would trailer it out to you. I'm in Wisconsin. Plus you would be right at home with the rust. Ha ha😂 great work.
That's because people up here don't wash their vehicles. I live an hour from SMA and my vehicles have NEVER looked like this. But they're also washed 3-5X weekly in the winter
@@nicksmith8166 I live in the same town, I spray my vehicles with krown of fluid film every october since they were new, none of my five vehicles (91-03-06-09 and 2012) have any rust, pm is everything in this salt region.
@@DinDooIt Good day from Ontario Canada So if u spray it do u wash later on, or just leave it. I think washing with pressure washer will wash it off. Thanks for now
friend of mine just had the same issue, same truck 2019 Silverado, Dealer also said battery, they would admit they were wrong about their diagnosis. took the truck to a Transmission shop, Showed them your video, its now fixed. Awesome
Another Great Diagnostic video Eric, the interlocks make it difficult to properly diagnose our vehicles, makes me proud to be maintaining my '02 7.3L Excursion, it has enough electronics to keep me busy.. but nothing like the new stuff.
Great video Eric...AGAIN! You honed in on the issue in the first 60 seconds of getting in the vehicle. Try it in Park, then try it in Neutral, boom now we know something fundamental that the other tech/techs missed. Decades of experience and an inquisitive mind that tries to exhaust all the obvious causes gets you some heading to follow...and no computer could sort that out except the one between your ears! My earliest experience with diagnosing a no crank was a neutral safety switch that was not correctly adjusted. I was young and new to the trade and had a mentor like you that guided me through the thought process that is needed to fix most any issue. Who needs a push button start? Remind viewers that the push button in some very early cars was under the accelerator pedal, so you could only crank it over at wide open throttle! Once the beast roared to life you let off. It beat a hand crank at least. Hope you all had a great Labor Day!
Part if not most of the blame for GM technicians failure to diagnose properly is warranty policy does not pay technicians actual diagnose time. Warranty allows only a standard amount of diagnosis time. Exceptions may be made, but the technician still is not fairly compensated. I worked for a GM dealership that put their best technician on salary. That worked very well. Great job Eric. You have knowledge that helps you troubleshoot in a logical easy to follow order.
Now every time I hear Eric say "this vehicle came from another shop" I am going to think that is code for "it came from the dealer". Well done Eric. You do make it look easy but you are knowledgeable and you take your time to really diagnose a vehicle. Avoca is really blessed to have you.
*GOOD NEWS!* - Local dealer took the guy in no question asked and fixed his truck based off our educated guess. Really unusual because they usually won't accept a diagnosis from a non "GM Master Tech." Strange times for sure 😉
Mic-drop!
Are they getting the "GM MasterTech" certificate from a box of Cracker Jacks? It doesn't carry much weight.
Eric, they know you’re a legend! Remember the truck with the bad ground strap behind the fender liner? They must know.
That was my concern, that the dealer wouldn't accept your diagnosis, unless they showed your video as evidence.
@@kkampy4052 They are master techs...they've master the art of code reading..they mastered the parts cannon.
How embarrassing! The GM trained dealer technician at the Chevrolet dealer couldn’t find such a simple thing as this. Yet the guy at the two man, one lady, one cat, 3 bay Napa Auto care shop in Avocado NewYork, population 1990, found it while sitting in the driver’s seat filming a RUclips video!
Yeah, that’s super embarrassing for a dealership full of tools, humans and scan tools. They should seriously reevaluate their business model and people they hired.
@SIGINT007 ya techs paid 18$ hr flat rate, sorry but you can't make ends meat with that pay doing diagnostic that only pays 1 hr. Simply put doing diagnostic work as a dealer tech doesn't make you money
@@royalblood2405 A point often not understood is even if you see a Dealer's Shop Rate of $125/hr the Techs are usually paid only a fraction of that.Other expenses eat that hourly up fast- all the departments in the building EXCEPT the office HAS TO MAKE MONEY to pay the salaries and bills
@@royalblood2405 understood, but the dealership can’t make money when nobody brings their GM junk there anymore either.
@@SIGINT007 gm service bays are always full, people will bring their vehicles in regardless
A testament to the inability of the average dealer (any make) to diagnose and fix their own vehicles. Great video Eric
They can't fix their own vehicles and then make it stupid hard for a non dealer shop to fix it...
hey now not all dealers! there’s techs like me that care about understanding vehicles and making the correct diagnosis!
@@DOCTOR_KIA Can you please tell us KIA owners why the GDI engines grenade at 100,000 kms? And what to do to extend the lifespan of them?
Dealers won't pay techs what their time tools and knowledge is really worth, that's why things like this happen.
But how the hell didn't anyone tried to start the car in neutral? "Needs a battery" and wasted time/money on towing🥴
He shows the difference between a technician and a mechanic. Great work as always
This guy is a once in a lifetime mechanic. He can fix not only the "mechanical" issues but has the super high intelligence needed to understand all these modern over-engineered systems in cars to find the problem.
Yep! He is one of the few wrench guys that understands electricity
If he can do it, you can do it.
That why we watch and learn from professor Eric O.
😂😂😂😂😂wrong!
All these bells and whistles are NOT needed
The owner of this car is so lucky to have you. Other shops would have sold that guy 10 new parts by now.
New transmission would have fixed it!
The dealer tech is going to see SMA’s notes and just get depressed!😊
Eric do you ever provide the owner with the RUclips link to his diagnostic?
Maybe 11!😂
@@harryl7946 ??????
I am referring to Ford F150 in this comment. My 2016 back in June started to act strangely regarding the Trans. indicator. I could change gear selector and many times nothing would happen. It started OK and ran OK but the Start/Stop feature had stopped working about two years ago. I knew it needed a certain battery strength to function properly. even with the multiple 100 mil round trips I was driving at the time one would expect the system to be better. Without pressing my luck I purchased a new battery and I had a new truck again. The transmission shifted better, the S/S feature started working again, and no screwy indicators anymore. I got 7+ years out of my battery with 33k miles. This Chevy is 4+years old with 35k miles so it might be due for a new battery. I won't speak to the fact Eric O included a battery charger to the mix and do not understand what the switch at the ground side of the battery has to say if the battery is weak with an artificial charge added to the battery.
Eric, people are always telling you how great of a mechanic you are and while I’d agree, I never comment to say so. However, in this instance, I am extremely impressed with how you approached this issue with the acknowledgment of having little experience with the GM system and capably found the problem. The GM tech who previously diagnosed this issue seemingly took the easy way out and recommended a battery which clearly would have failed to solve the problem. The people who live near you who can access your shop are lucky. It’s not everyday we find specialists who are capable, determined, and professional. Great work and while you’ll never service any of my vehicles, you’re my go to source! I appreciate you!
Hello fellow Florida man. This is what we call treating the system and it is in every profession, doctors, home builders, software engineers and mechanics all have a large populations of doing so.
This is why dealer service centers and even independent ones, do the "parts cannon" method and just throw parts at the most common symptom issue and work their way down the list.
Erik aint got no time for that, and thats why he goes for the cause and not just taking symptoms at face value.
I definitely agree that guy's pretty damn smart
It is amazing that such a Gem of a mechanic should reside and work in that "wide spot in the road" known as Avoca, New York.
Thanks for not saying I am a great mechanic! It does get very annoying reading that when I know the truth and literally hundreds of guys in the shop that are ten times better than I'll ever be. At the end of the day this was a simple fix and an easy diag. in my opinion. I swear I could fill up a tire with air and the people would be amazed at the skill level haha. But seriously I appreciate all my viewers and commenters 👍
I remember the video. Of bad ground cable. Was great video showing the step by step process. I’m a technician. But for electrical systems. Your troubleshooting skills are on fire.
Wow, 4 years old, low miles, tons of rust, and another great diagnosis. Glad to see Chevrolet is keeping you in business! 😉 Enjoy your Labor Day! 👍🏻👍🏻
I will never own another one! They are absolute junk and I have been a diehard Chevy guy since the 80s. They destroyed the "Like A Rock" brand. Now it should say "Like A Total Piece of 💩" proudly brought to you by Chevrolet.
I think many have commented on the RUB (Rust Under Belly) issue here; Chevy owners treat and cover the sills asp, even if your truck is like brand new. 🧐
Every new generation just keeps getting worse. I put front brake pads on a 19 Silverado yesterday(OEM pads were 80% pad remaining but squealed like a pig). Did everything as normal, and just doing pads set off a Christmas tree of lights on the dash. I had to clear codes out of the abs, steering and ecm modules.
Not just GM… best bet is Toyota . Unless you need a heavy duty truck. Then you just have to deal with all problems that come with them 😖
@@wiuser1745 When you live in the salt belt, brand name means nothing. They all rot till they turn to junk. Vehicles were never designed to survive being doused in corrosive salt for months at a time.
Here’s your comment from the old guy in Illinois…… I am 68 and a former mechanic starting at age 16. I was very green, but learned from the old-school guys in the shop. I knew where you were going two minutes into the video. And best of all I understand you’re clear concise methodical diagnostic method. Period. Keep up the great work youngster.
Gotta love, good, kind people, getting up, going to work everyday, kicking ass and knowing wth they are doing. Great job Eric O.
Well done from a retired mechanic. You identified the problem because you understand the system, know there are extras in the system which the computer sees but the programmers have not codified if there is an irregularity, know how to read a electrical diagram, know what wire(s) should have power or ground and in which circumstances, know what inspection/electrical tool to use (safely), know where to find the wires to back probe and know how to interpret the results. That process may have been relatively simple for you but there are many, many techs out there who would not have a clue where to start, other than saying the battery needs to be replaced. You have great skills. Keep up the teaching. We in the field have learnt/are learning a lot from you. Mrs O is also a good scout. You make a good pair.
Dealer: No codes, means we can't fix it.
Eric: No codes, means we identify the cause by determining what is different,odd,unusual between what is working (Starts in Neutral) compared to what's not ( No Start in Park)
@NOELTM...Do you expect someone to think for themselves? Everyone depends on computers, cash registers, & calculators.
Years ago I actually had a Chevy dealership service department tell me that exact thing. Pretty discouraging to hear.
I wouldn't want a dealer working on my vehicle if the best thing they can do is say
It needs a battery.
So sad when that's the best they can do.
What kind of dart board do you think the stealership was using for diagnosis? If it wasn't regulation, that might explain a few things! 🤣🤣🤣
Code(s) give them a flowchart to "guide" them. To check continuity of a wire, they're instructed to disconnect both ends! Anyone who follows Scanner Danner, aka Paul Danner, knows how to verify wires without digging down to the computer disconnecting the plugs, then test. Paul's method will have it done in 5 minutes or less. Flowchart, .5 hour later, wire is confirmed good. Next item is "replace the ECU. No way could it be a sensor shorted to ground pulling the who 5v reference circuit down!!
The dealer couldn't fix it because it didn't throw a code and the technicians (Cough!) cant fix anything that doesn't throw a code for them to start the swap tronics process.
Good work from a guy than understands more than a check engine light.
The dealers in your area are just brutal, Eric. I'm glad that your community has an expert like you to help when they need it most.
I think it is dealerships every where.
They're known as "stealerships" EVERYWHERE, and for good reason.
I concur,the people in your community should be proud to know they have such a good technician with integrity.Hats off sir!
This is the problem with a lot of dealer mechanics(not all of them). If it doesn't tell them on the computer what is wrong, they have no idea. They wouldn't even know how to back prob like you did. Great video Eric.
IME most main dealers are utterly incompetent when it comes to anything slightly outside the ordinary and they are criminally overpriced. I suppose this at least gives a lot of space of independent places like SMA to thrive.
It takes time to learn how to diag correctly!! Most techs at dealers are young parts changers freshly out of school✌️
@@ferrumignis😅😅😅 Criminally over priced 😅😅😅😅 Are you a shop owner?
The fact you could rock it into park makes me want to try a shift lever adjustment.
Not just dealer mechanics are like this. Independent garage mechanics are the same.
Eric was closer to a diagnosis in 10 seconds than the dealer was in 2 tow ins
What kind of dart board do you think the stealership was using for diagnosis? If it wasn't regulation, that might explain a few things! 🤣🤣🤣
Something about mechanics like Eric and Rainman Ray. They actually do the dirty work of diagnostics instead of loading the parts cannon or just "idfk go somewhere else"
@@Rekuzan , it's pretty disgusting that "stealerships" continue to get away with this nonsense. They're so "WE KNOW YOUR VEHICLE BEST!!" That's only because it's been in 27 times for the same problem right?!🙄It's criminal just as much as the lousy manufacturers of these vehicles that design such garbage knowing it's going to fail in short order and the customer gets stuck with the bill after paying tens of thousands for these piles of junk. I recall the simplicity of older vehicles, those which still had good safety features without the added electrical garbage such as "push-button start, engine brake stop/start, parking assist, shift by wire transmissions, electronic parking brakes etc."
@lsswappedcessna I wouldn't compare Eric to Rainman Ray. That's like comparing Stephen Hawking to Elmer Fudd.
@@Friend_of_the_One-Eyed_Ladies Yeah, Rainman makes a lot of mistakes if you are familiar with the car he is working on. A recent video where he worked on a CR-V, he was just parts changing rather than making the correct, informed repair that would actually last and that was needed. If you don't know, you don't know. I am very familiar with that particular engine so I knew - is there other stuff in other videos on cars I don't know where he does the same? Probably, based on the comments.
Please update us on the status of the dealership repairing the truck. I'm seriously invested in the outcome of this. Great informative video as usual. 👍🏾
One of the few channels where one episode is going into electrical diagnosis then another episode is banging rust suspensions parts out with big nasty. Love it
What a way to wake up in the morning. A cup of coffee while watching Eric O. diagnosis an electrical problem! An educational and entertaining video. Thank you for posting!
Not only did you find and fix the problem,you made a video and taught us how you did it as well. Something the dealer failed to do,twice! Very impressive. Thank you and take a bow.
Eric, last year my grandson got a job at the local Chevrolet dealer in the parts dept. For three months I rode him to and from work until he was able to buy a car from the dealership. Every afternoon I would arrive early to pick him up, and I would sit in my truck and wait for him to quit. In those three months that I sat there, you would be amazed at how many very very new Silverados I saw come in on a rollback for repair. The tow truck driver would take the keys into the service dept. and leave. Shortly after that a gentleman would come out and put a tag with a four digit number on the rear view mirror. I remember when Chevies were like they said like a rock reliable, no more.
Sublime diagnostic skills, Eric. Your channel could serve as an auto electrician’s master class. Bravo to you!
Oh man, I can just imagine the "Master Class" advertisement video with Eric O and all his best quotes that would be amazing. Someone should edit that together just for giggles.
Problem-solving skills will get you far in life. Eric is amazing at it!
It's like a free class. I even take notes. Well done Eric
This gets an A+.
Nailed the initial diag (NSS/NSS related)
Nailed the full surface diag (Pulling the schematic, comparing it to scanner data, finding a potential fault).
and NAILED the damn confirmation (replicated the issue along side the test light to confirm no continuity to GND during no-start condition).
Parts replacers hate these diags, real techs eat them up. Props to you for the proper diag and proper explanation, all within a 20min video.
These new machines are a repairpersons gift. So many switches, connections and a collection of check back processes, there is more likely to be something wrong...all the time. These videos just show that the day of "driving these machines out" are long gone. Long live my rusted out but mechanically sound 2002...the last GM I will ever buy. Old machines are worth a hard look if you don't know a mechanic on a first name basis. Thanks Eric...for the confirmation NOT buying new is the right thing to do.
Eric is a testament to someone who is driven to root cause. I always pester my young nephew mechanic to continuously watch his videos.
Eric O. - doing what the fine folks at S-R seemingly can’t do - diagnose! I use your example of the 2019 Chevy Truck with the bad ground strap in my Electrical Fundamentals class all the time when we discuss voltage drop testing. This one was even more basic than that. Well done, sir!
YES! The ground strap had corroded and the dealership had generated a list of the parts that they said needed replacement. Eric had his daughter, Trinity, come out and turn the steering wheel while he watched is instrumentation and traced the problem to the corroded ground strap. PRICELESS!
There's a reason the dealers bring their problems to you, you know more than they do. Great job !!!!!
Best trouble shooter i have ever seen and I have seen a lot of different issues, was a arbitrator for a large auto auction for years. South main is a great asset for his customers.
This is what you call a successful and smart mechanic and I bet you he’s number one in his state… hands down I’ve been watching your videos for a long time. You have some type of power 👌🏻
Just another fantastic example of a logical, systematic approach to problem diagnosis. Great as always, and thanks, Eric!
This man should be the standard for all mechanics. I hope you start your own school so younger generations know how to be true mechanics. Great video keep them coming.
He will when he gets older and gets tired of dirt under his fingernails and busted knuckles. The day will come.
Car tekkies no longer and its been a while now, need to go to wrenches, they need to diagnose the electronics, and training is not strong enough, unlike Eric who has taken the time to become very competent with wiring diagram, code readers, scope. This is what creates great business opportunities for tekkies, dealers should be trading to this standard or we the public pay for parts while they attempt to fault find.
Its always so funny that the dealer can't figure out the issue, but SMA can. Love the video!!!
This is why you run a business instead of working for a car company! Your expertise in finding the issue is far beyond most technicians! Congrats!😊
Jaysus H. Christ Eric, the last time I checked your hourly rate was something like $90? You should be charging Ford, GM and Stellantis $1,000 an hour to deal with the problems they can't solve. You have a natural intelligence that could be applied across so many industries and vocations - thank you for sharing your talents!
South main auto @ 5 am, you know it. Lets watch!
The Chevy should be embarrassed that an independent mechanic can figure out what is wrong with the truck. It shows how the people at these dealership are not mechanics.
Eric O you are indeed a certified mechanic and take the time to fix the real issue with the vehicles.
On the plus side all the owner of this truck needed to do is show what was wrong with this truck is to show them this video.
As alway Eric O you are definitely a true honest mechanic. 100% appreciate you and your experience along with knowledge.
The dealer is probably lucky to have anyone wrenching for them these days, let alone competent diagnosticians. Kids today don't want to work in the first place, and dealers don't want to, or can't afford to pay decent wages anyway.
New vehicles are way overcomplicated and overpriced, despite being basically disposable. The good old, tried & true pickup is headed down the same road. You can blame CAFE standards for some of it, but the consumer's desire for more & more shiny bells & whistles is also to blame. Guess I'll just stick with my good old fashioned Panther era "grandpa-mobiles". 😁
Tundra
I'm not sure Eric has certs, not that they mean anything..
"Certified Parts Swappers" more like. No diagnostic skills at all.
Well, that's freaking amazing how fast you figured this out.
The most dependable long lasting trucks on the road .... ohhhhhh LIKE A ROCK
Not since the early 2000s. Their trucks are absolute junk now.
@@alanboyce2774 My step dads 98 has less rust then that 2019.. very sad
Rev and pray with your Chevrolet.
Like a rock? It's more like a boat anchor.
I'm no mechanic, but Iv'e rescued a few motorists with dead cars in rest areas and parking lots with the suggestion to try and start the vehicle in neutral.
Good work Eric.
Yeah.....not that complex a diag, but the Chevy dealer still couldn't fix it 😮😂
Great work as always, thanks Eric 🎉
No surprise, they'd probably claim a new PCM and wiring loom would be needed if the gas tank was empty. Criminally incompetent.
Yeah but they sure did want to sell a battery.
You saw the OEM scan tool data, everything looked perfect. This is why going to school to learn something and passing the tests doesn't mean you really understand the thing you learned.
Eric , you go beyond the normal scope of a everyday shop mechanic , amazing! I love all the tidbits of how you troubleshoot things!!
The difference between a tech and a true mechanic. Keep up the good content.
Technicians are actually a higher level than mechanic. Technicians are technical where-as mechanics deal with mechanical.
@killer2600 I know technicians that have little ability to troubleshoot without a diagnostic tool. Idc how much higher they are, if they can't apply it after something is diagnosed they are only a little better than the tool used. I'll take a guy like Eric over a straight tech any day.
It's pretty sad that newer vehicles have these issues so frequently, and even more sad that the "trained professionals " at the dealerships and other mechanics are so quick to skip over proper diagnostics and revert right to making guesses while throwing parts at a vehicle. Parts which are not even faulty, and those costs get passed down to the customer, even after the original problem is still there. Thank God we have people like this gentleman at South Main Auto that take the time needed to research and hunt down the actual issue so the customer can get their issues fixed without loading a full magazine into the 'parts cannon'. You do an amazing job, and you are a true expert in the industry sir!
Great diagnostic skills. Eric
Excellent diagnosis as always. Enjoy your channel.
And by the way, I've bought my last GM product. I had a 2014 Silverado and it had AFM problems, oil pressure problems and the thing rotted away. I traded it for a 2021 Colorado and after about a week it developed a shudder at highway speeds. Took it back to the dealer because it was under warranty and they did a transmission flush and fill. The fluid that came out of it was extremely dirty. It helped for about 2 days and the shudder came back. Took it back to the dealer and now they're telling me that it was normal. Go figure. Contacted GM and they refuse to help. Needless to say, GM products are junk. Don't buy.
"Nobody skips customer service like GM"
I wonder what age group of mechanics does that dealer have working at it... and where are the senior mechanics on problems like this? You made that diagnosis appear so simple, a true artist Eric!
Unfortunately senior mechanics have probably retired. This was such an easy diagnosis you can tell the dealership just tried to start it a couple of times and just wanted to get rid of the customer. As easy as it started you can clearly see nothing is wrong with the battery 🤦🏿♂️
Senior techs have mostly left the dealers for better paying less stressful jobs. Now it's just kids selling filters, brake pads and flushes. With labor rates at $200 per hour .
lube tech diag
They will probably recommend a transmission flush to fix the switch...
You are simply amazing. This is why I don't bring anything to the Dealer or to any of our shops around here. They never ever get it right. I end up spending a ton of money, waisting a ton of time and then fixing it my self (with your help).
I've commented on it before, but regardless of your skills in the nuts and bolts area (which are excellent), your diagnostics skills are worth whatever you charge. Well done.
If the guy had to pay $1000 for the diagnosis, he would be ahead.
Really enjoy the logic you use to fine the root of the problem. It takes a lot of experience to reach your level of component service.
Excellent diagnosis Eric. The rust underneath the truck though is disturbing. You can almost hear it growing.
I just bought a new Superduty. I really liked the looks of GMC but the build quality is lacking.
I dealt with those Superduty trucks on a daily basis until two months ago. If you think they are better quality you are going to get a wake up call.@@natgasf7236
@@natgasf7236 So you freely and willingly decided to buy a truck overpriced by $25k (at least) in this hyperinflated market to help KEEP prices ridiculously sky high. Thanks pal, American consumerist mindset at its finest.
that what you get with a Mary Barra Chinese Chevy
@@sblagg527 Really dude? I actually own six vehicles, two motorcycles. I worked 70 hrs a week for 41 years and now at 71 I buy what I want. Sad that you feel the need to try to shame people for what they have and you obviously can’t afford.
You are more qualified to write software code than the people doing it now as they obviously do not understand the whole system. I had 40 years of programming experience and saw endless examples of the same lack of "system" knowledge. Great video!
Great diagnostic, Eric! Much better and faster performance than the dealer - I would love to see them shove a battery into that transmission mode switch 🙂
"Who remembers when vehicles just had keys, no theft stuff?" I do, you turned the key, which actuated a rod, which activated the ignition switch. Ah, those were the days. Nice troubleshooting Eric!!👍👍
I love how you manage to break problems down. That is the key to identifying a solution. There was a lot of application of logic, and knowledge gained from experience required to figure out to perform this "simple diagnostic".
Great job, Eric. While there is zero excuse for the dealer techs to miss that problem, as P/N no starts have been a thing since forever, people need to understand the process the dealer techs have to go through. At my time at the dealer, I had zero say in how to diagnose warranty repairs. Even the most basic faults required emailing back and forth with a factory engineer, being told step by step what tests to perform and ultimately, after days of this drawn out process, they might send out a regional engineer. It's ridiculous and why I no longer care to work for dealerships.
OR, you could diagnose and fix it on your own while going through their song and dance. You can do what they are telling you AND do your own test at the same time.
@@frotobaggins7169 and that's ultimately what happens but after awhile of turning warranty labor hours (which are about half of customer pay hours) at the end of the day most of what you're doing is free labor. For some reason most techs don't have much motivation to work for free. At that point they can leave (what I did) or they just don't much care to fix anything under warranty. And unfortunately, that happens a lot.
I think the real problem comes from places giving these usually easy "no crank/no starts" to lower techs that dont have the proper leadership backup that when the tech cant figure something out they get no guidance to learn, they probably get put down in some way or told to be faster or to not waste time, instead of being mentored to seek out the answer. Dealerships, even GM have factory diagnostic tables/procedures at their disposal on their computers; they only need to sit down, click click and print and then run down the gauntlet of tests, narrowing results until the problem is found.
I can sympathize with your frustration as a dealer tech. I retired from field service for electrical distribution equipment. We also had to contact service reps who unfortunately were not located at the factory, nor did they have factory experience. I could sometimes see the remedy needed but the newby at the service center couldn't understand what I wanted to do so he wouldn't authorize the repair. After I tried the reps suggestions and failed to fix the machine, I would affect my fix and tell the rep his last idea fixed it.
Wow makes me want to go out and buy a Chevy truck. I wish the customer would drive it back to the dealer and insist they fix it, with their master trained technicians onsite. Drive it back and don’t tell them how it starts in neutral. That trying to start it in neutral trick has been around for decades, any dealership too stupid to at least suggest that (or know that)as a temporary workaround, they should be fired. Unless they’re 18 years old or younger
IMPRESSIVE Mr O. I am not shocked though. You are in my opinion the best mechanic I have ever seen, including myself. And I am old. Excellent diag video
Eric O isn't just a mechanic but a diagnostic technician as well. It is also comes from experience. Eric O is also intelligent to knowing cars especially Chevys.
Mechanics are a dime a dozen. Diagnostic techs. are rare.@@avenger1888
I work for a mopar dealer. This blows my mind! Great video as always. Total embarrassment for the dealer that said they diagnosed it.
Wondering if i could ask a question? I have 98 dodge truck 5.9l magnum. Paid alot extra for the OE cap, original had brass tips and the OE that i bought didnt have the brass tips but the cheapo tips. You think i got scammed on a rebox or do you know if thats the normal now? Thanks in advance.
Guy I know works at a Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep dealer service center. This situation is operating by design. They don't pay their techs to diagnose anything. Something like 0.25 hours to diagnose a no start - and that timer starts the moment you take the key, NOT once it's in the bay!
@@TheRetarp under warranty, if you can prove the diag time. You get paid. Lots of guys just scan and throw parts. I see it all the time. Shameful.
Eric, I'm no auto mechanic but I had very much the same problem on a minivan. As soon as you described it, I told my wife what it would be. As soon as you did the rocking/rolling drop into park and it started, then cycled back to the full stop shift and it didn't start, I was laughing out loud.
Your working proving that by working through the wiring diagrams, then testing it with the light was all icing on the cake and great!
Thanks so much for every one of your videos! I've been learning new things every time. Too bad I am past 70 and no longer in the workforce. But it sure helps me!
Been following for a decade now and commented only a handful of times. But when I do comment it is always because you blow me away with finding the “actual” problem with a vehicle and it don’t take you long. The Big O is GM own “ASE Certified” mechanics couldn’t find the issue but you did and the customer can show the RUclips video as proof! You are awesome!🤣🤣🤣🤣
Eric, watching you diagnose this issue makes the diagnostic look so simple. And must agree logically it is a simple diagnoses. Also stunned by the fact that, considering it was towed no one thinks to try neutral! Did you give the customer a copy of the video to take to the Shabby dealer? Great job. Great video, thanks as always
Eric, you simply understand how systems on a vehicle work. The scan tool can only point a person in the right direction if it can see a problem from it's point of view. This can be very helpful if the information is there. If no information is available with the scan tool, knowing how whatever system you are working on works is the only way to diagnose that system and is the only way to come up with a test to find what is not functioning properly. Great video as always.
I’ve always worked on my own stuff that was out of warranty. There have always been a few things I second guess myself while working on. Since I started watching your videos a long time ago, there’s not much I won’t give an educated shot at. Thanks for the quality of video you put out and the detailed explanations you give. Part swappers are easy to find, mechanics are rare.
Eric, you are truly a treasure to your local community and to the RUclips community! We’re blessed with your great videos and diagnostic skills, you’re great explanation of all aspects of the process, your humble nature and humor! I’ve leave a lot from your content and I appreciate all you do for the community at large!
Morning, thanks for another awesome video. I just wanted to say, i appreciate you sharing your work with us. I'm a mechanic of sorts (i maintain the equipment in a manufacturing facility) and your videos have enhanced my trouble shooting and diagnostic activities on several occasions. Thanks!!
Got love the number of software steps needed to send juice to the starter.
The more advanced we get, the further back we go.
After watching this clip, I am so glad I drive a car with a manual gearbox that only has a switch for the reverse lights..
Ah for the good old days when the most complicated thing in your car was the CD player!
Good diagnosis Mr O. Forgotten how complicated this stuff is nowadays.
I'm an industrial electrician your approach to diagnosing a problem is applicable to my field, too.
Impressive skills, a phenomenal teacher, as well as entertaining.
Same here 😄👌
Eric, this was a great diagnosis. What really surprised me is that NOBODY even thought to try starting the car in neutral. I am not a mechanic (computer engineer) but I have had quite a few different cars. Back in the day you just had a simple mechanical neutral safety switch that screwed into the transmission. Whenever a car would not start in park, I would first check to see if it would start in neutral.
Yep exactly. New automatic semi trucks these days are good for that. They don't recognize neutral and won't start. Especially if the last driver shut it off while in Drive. And in this case the Chevy wasn't recognizing Park. This was a good one from Eric!
Yep!
Back-in-the-day my 1968 Fairlane had the neutral safety switch on the steering column next to the brake pedal. That thing would get out of adjustment and you had to hold the gearshift lever up while turning the key.
Well you're old and most of the dealer techs are young, they haven't learned things over time like you. They went to school to learn to fix cars but that doesn't mean they really have a deep understanding of how it works.
@@topfloorstudio2684 The early automated semi's would actually get stuck in gear. Supposedly, the transmission manufacturers have fixed that problem so that you wouldn't be stranded needing a tow/repair just because you turned the truck off while in gear. The automatic semi's are just like cars, just put the selector in neutral and it'll start no problem. Automated and Automatic transmissions are drastically different.
You truly are a Master Technician Eric! You can repair anything! I been a mechanic 38 years and enjoy your videos! I learn something new everytime! Thank you
I know my local gm dealer hires techs right out of school, and then let the senior techs go because they earn too much money. Doesn't make sense to me but that's is what they do. Great job on this one.
The boss says to you one day- "You've reached the limit on your hourly base rate,son." In other words no more raises,no matter what.This is why toolboxes have wheels.This is also why some dealers have not one senior tech.
It's been this way forever.That's just the way it is.
I really don't think many of us out here could actually diag this one. You seem to have an ability to know where to look. I would be lost. lol Great vid.
I can't believe even dealers only have hacks in the service department. I never realized how bad the vast majority of hacks calling themselves "mechanics" were until I found this channel.
Dealers cant find Technicians like Eric rare guys out there of his caliber are working for themselves.....remember if it was easy we could all fix our own vehicles all the time.
@@stevedibiase728 Mechanics aren't "found" they're made. Short sighted, greedy stealerships aren't making the investment to turn a "technician" (aka hack) into a "mechanic."
Just love the way you knife and forked your way through this fault. I have been working on vehicles for many years and hadn’t realised many manufacturers have redundant switches - really learned something from this time - love your videos- keep them coming
We need more people like you that just care a little.
Your are one of a very few heroes of mine on YT. As an electrical and process control guy as well as trainer your methods are exactly what I teach - logical and reasoned to divide conquer and eliminate. Eliminate the very unlikely quickly (i.e. don't worry about your spare tire if the car will not start) Take 15 things it could be par that down to the most likely 2 or 3.
Your methods are sound and confirm power, ground, continuous circuit and low resistance connection.
Your videos are very informative and worth the time invested every time!
Don't worry about the spare tire you say?! Why, the vehicle's entire electrical Feng Shui is disrupted if the spare isn't one with the Universe. :)
Impressed that you guessed the correct problem from the getgo....man with experience gets it done!
You ain't kidding about rust, Eric! I'm in Scotland running a 2017 Volvo V40 (Based on the Ford Focus platform) knocking on for 200,000 miles and I have less rust than that 😮
Bravo! Your experience,knowledge, logic, and diagnostic skills made this fix appear simple. The people that say this was a simple fix are the same ones that aren't willing to pay for the experience, knowledge,logic and diagnostic skills of the gifted individual.
Great example of a good mechanic with a lot of common sense and has tons of experience in his arsenal. Might be easy for him but not everyone.
Damn!
you identified the problem in less than 60 seconds
I’m impressed …. (again!)
So glad to see a auto mechanic that can troubleshoot the electrical systems, I was a aircraft electrician for 20 yrs, I always told the new guys a good troubleshooter is worth his weight in gold.
You always amaze me Eric. Such an extremely humble and yet practical person.
A genius takes the difficult and simplifies it. This was an awesome breakdown of the intuitive deconstruction of a system. Thanks Eric!
You are the man! You have become many dealerships diagnostics guy, pretty darn sad that the dealerships don't have good quality mechanics and still charge an arm, a leg, one left eye, three teeth, and whatever is left in your wallet for poor service.
My first thought in the parking lot was "park switch is bad or slightly out of position...or it's not really going all the way into park every time and the shift cable/rod needs adjusting. Looking forward to seeing how this pans out.
Edit: I was on the right track, but not good enough for a cigar. And this is why I'm in an armchair and not wrenching for a living. Nicely caught, Eric. 👍
This is why I don't work on anything newer than 2005 give or take early OBD2 cuz while yes my initial guess was correct that was the problem it was a guess and as soon as I started thinking about it in any further capacity than my guess it went down a rabbit hole fast too many computers too many sensors not enough actual active monitoring I would rip all of my hair out second guessing myself but give me anything Early 2000 to 1940 and I can get you squared away easy or at least be able to tell you exactly what the problem is
Much respect to you Good sir You are what any mechanic should strive to be
Eric O, You need to have available just an underwassh clinic at your shop. Monthly washes underside for a reasonable price to regular customers. This can only make your job easier in the long term.
Eric, you are the man. Over the years of watching your videos. And seeing how others send/ bring you the ones they can not figure out. I know that if I was unable to figure it out, I would trailer it out to you. I'm in Wisconsin. Plus you would be right at home with the rust. Ha ha😂 great work.
The amount of rust on that thing is insane 😮.
That's because people up here don't wash their vehicles. I live an hour from SMA and my vehicles have NEVER looked like this. But they're also washed 3-5X weekly in the winter
@@nicksmith8166 I live in the same town, I spray my vehicles with krown of fluid film every october since they were new, none of my five vehicles (91-03-06-09 and 2012) have any rust, pm is everything in this salt region.
Typical Chevy so you'll be back again in a few years for another new Chevy. Mary barra is no fool.
@@DinDooIt Good day from Ontario Canada So if u spray it do u wash later on, or just leave it.
I think washing with pressure washer will wash it off. Thanks for now
@@nicksmith8166 So how much are you spending on car washing every year? :)
Eric, when it comes to troubleshooting on modern vehicles you sure are very good at what you do!
friend of mine just had the same issue, same truck 2019 Silverado, Dealer also said battery, they would admit they were wrong about their diagnosis. took the truck to a Transmission shop, Showed them your video, its now fixed. Awesome
Another Great Diagnostic video Eric, the interlocks make it difficult to properly diagnose our vehicles, makes me proud to be maintaining my '02 7.3L Excursion, it has enough electronics to keep me busy.. but nothing like the new stuff.
Another fantastic video. This another example of how some of the technicians at dealerships lack troubleshooting skills. Unfortunate for the consumer.
Oh man, another 3am post. As usual I'm awake. Love your videos
Great video Eric...AGAIN! You honed in on the issue in the first 60 seconds of getting in the vehicle. Try it in Park, then try it in Neutral, boom now we know something fundamental that the other tech/techs missed. Decades of experience and an inquisitive mind that tries to exhaust all the obvious causes gets you some heading to follow...and no computer could sort that out except the one between your ears! My earliest experience with diagnosing a no crank was a neutral safety switch that was not correctly adjusted. I was young and new to the trade and had a mentor like you that guided me through the thought process that is needed to fix most any issue. Who needs a push button start? Remind viewers that the push button in some very early cars was under the accelerator pedal, so you could only crank it over at wide open throttle! Once the beast roared to life you let off. It beat a hand crank at least. Hope you all had a great Labor Day!
Part if not most of the blame for GM technicians failure to diagnose properly is warranty policy does not pay technicians actual diagnose time. Warranty allows only a standard amount of diagnosis time. Exceptions may be made, but the technician still is not fairly compensated. I worked for a GM dealership that put their best technician on salary. That worked very well. Great job Eric. You have knowledge that helps you troubleshoot in a logical easy to follow order.
Now every time I hear Eric say "this vehicle came from another shop" I am going to think that is code for "it came from the dealer". Well done Eric. You do make it look easy but you are knowledgeable and you take your time to really diagnose a vehicle. Avoca is really blessed to have you.
Your truly a excellent tech, great job, keep the videos coming!!!( your customers are very lucky to have you)