Shop Knowledge Database
Search previous diagnoses & repairs in plain mechanic language
2018 Chevrolet Cruze
1.4L Turbo · 68,000 mi
Symptoms
Losing coolant, no visible leak, rough idle
Complaint
Car keeps losing coolant but no puddle. Runs rough.
Diagnosis
Head gasket failure between coolant passage and cylinder.
Repair
Head gasket replacement, head resurfaced, new head bolts.
Parts Used
Head gasket set, head bolts, coolant, oil + filter
Process
Pressure test held. Checked oil — milky. Combustion leak test positive.
Notes
Common on 1.4T with overheating history. Recommend checking water pump too.
Dale FosterJul 15, 2026 · 5 photos
2013 Ford F-150
5.0L V8 · 142,000 mi
Symptoms
Coolant loss, weep at water pump
Complaint
Truck losing coolant, smells sweet after driving.
Diagnosis
Water pump weep hole leak — pump failing.
Repair
Water pump + thermostat replacement, coolant flush.
Parts Used
Water pump, thermostat, coolant
Process
Visual found coolant crust at weep hole. Pressure test confirmed seepage.
Notes
5.0 pumps fail around 140k. Always replace thermostat while in there.
Sam NguyenAug 20, 2026 · 3 photos
2016 Toyota Camry
2.5L · 91,000 mi
Symptoms
Brake squeal cold, grinding
Complaint
Brakes squeal in the morning.
Diagnosis
Worn front pads, warped rotors.
Repair
Front brake service — pads + rotors.
Parts Used
Front pads, rotors, hardware kit
Process
Inspected pads — fronts at 2mm, scored rotors.
Notes
Toyota pads tend to squeal when below 3mm. Hardware kit prevents recurrence.
Dale FosterAug 28, 2026 · 2 photos