Hot Autos, Motorcycles & Planes Posts
How To: Repair auto headlights with a 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System
What's better— forking out the dough for a new headlight or simply restoring it to its original beauty? The latter is definitely the choice for penny-pinchers, and is easy to accomplish with a restoration kit from 3M. This video will show you how to use the 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System to restore your headlight's shine.
How To: Sand, polish and buff a paint job on an automobile for a shiny luster
It's not a new technique in the auto body industry, but cutting and polishing is a great way to smooth out your paint job. This two-part video will show you the process of sanding and polishing your auto paint. The first video shows you the steps for sanding the painted surface before buffing, which removes the imperfections after painting. The second video shows you some 3M polishes for buffing the car finish. This will polish the surface into a luster shiny paint job.
News: Since Retirement, We've Had Lots of Time on Our Hands. Lots.
Kudos to Fred Keller and Judy Foster, of Anchorage, Alaska, for undertaking quite possibly the DIY project of the year. The retired couple spent 11 months converting a 1976 Mazda pickup truck into a gigantic radio flyer wagon car. "'I think the words I hear the most often is 'awesome' or 'cool' or people go by and give us a 'hi' sign,' says Foster. 'The wheels are made from hub caps and detergent bottles, and the steering wheel is the actual wheel from a wagon. The handle rises eight feet hig...
How To: Use the smart key for the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this video, we learn how to use the smart key for the 2010 Prius. You can use this just like any other keyless entry system. Press the lock button to lock the doors and the unlock button to unlock the doors. When you press unlock once it unlocks the drivers door, if you press it twice within 3 seconds, it unlocks all the door. After 60 seconds, the Prius will automatically lock itself. Press the red alarm key if you need to draw attention to yourself in an emergency situation. Make sure yo...
How To: Adjust the steering wheel in the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to adjust the steering wheel in the 2010 Prius. Every Prius has a tilt and telescopic steering wheel that should only be adjusted when the car is stopped. Reach under the steering wheel and push the lever down to release. Then, move the steering wheel in and out and up and down until you find the position that is comfortable for you. Pull the lever up to lock it into position. Make sure the steering wheel is completely locked into place before you start driving ...
How To: Operate the solar powered vent system in a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to operate the solar powered vent system in a 2010 Prius. Prius models that come with a moon roof also have a solar powered roof. The control switch is on the left hand side of the steering wheel. With the ignition on and the switch turned on, you can exit and allow the ventilation system to start to clean the air out of the car. Since this doesn't rely on power, it will not drain your battery. This is not only eco-friendly, it's also great for your health and c...
How To: Program the HomeLink setup in a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to program the HomeLink setup in a 2010 Prius. This can be programmed to operate any HomeLink compatible device. Up to three devices can be operated from the vehicle. To program a garage door opener, simply press both the remote and home link button until the indicator light flash rapidly. To program anything else, simply follow the instructions that are given to you when you purchase your car. This is a great feature that can save you time and add more simplici...
How To: Operate dynamic radar cruise control in the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to operate dynamic radar cruise control in the 2010 Prius. This supplements the conventional cruise control with a vehicle to vehicle cruise control. The radar system sees the car ahead and is less effected by bad weather conditions. The driver can select short, medium, or long driving distances. When cruising at a set speed that is faster than the car ahead, the vehicle will slow down to the speed of that car. A warning will be sounded to tell the driver to tak...
How To: Use different drive modes in the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to use different drive modes in the 2010 Prius. The Prius offers a smooth and gentle ride, and new technology lets you tailor the driving experience to your needs. All you have to do is press the button and let the car do the rest. The EV mode lets you drive for longer distances at low speeds using the electric motor only. This is an extremely quiet ride that doesn't produce any emissions. The ECO mode makes the most of fuel economy, even on stop and go city str...
How To: Adjust the front seat and heater in the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to adjust the front seat and heater in the 2010 Prius. First, you will need to adjust your seats by lifting the lever in the front of the seat. Move up and down until it's comfortable. On the side of the seat is a lever which will move the seat up and down. The other lever behind that will move the seat back up and down until it's in the right place. There is also a button on the side that will change the lumbar support for your back. There is also an option ava...
How To: Repair a minor dent on a car with body filler & block sanding
In this thorough 30 minute video tutorial, Donnie Smith shows you a method of repairing a minor dent on a car with body filler and also shows you how to block sand the filler. For the novice who wants to learn more about car maintenance, this is the perfect tutorial.
How To: Apply and spray primer surfacer on your car
In this video Donnie Smith shows you how to apply primer surfacer. In addition to the visual instructions on the video, you can follow along with the instructions below from Donnie himself. After watching this video, you'll be an expert on primer surfacing!
How To: Spray epoxy primer to a repaired area of a car
In this video, you are shown how to apply epoxy to your car area after it's been repaired. Epoxy is a great primer because of its advantages in adhesion and corrosion protection. You can apply one or two coats if you so desire. Watch this video and you'll learn all about the advantages of epoxy primer.
How To: Read the information displays inside a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to read the information displays inside a 2010 Prius. There are a lot of features on the Prius that can improve your fuel economy. The energy monitor and hybrid system indicator can help you save gas and tell you how your car is running, along with what kind of power it's using. On the next screen, you can monitor the consumption of your gas so you can see what mpg you are getting in the last hour or five minutes you were driving! You can do this for a trip or f...
How To: Jump start a car using another car's battery
In this tutorial, we learn how to jump start a car using another car's battery. First, you will need to position the two cars in front of each other. Turn off both of the cars completely, then attach the jumper cables. You need to connect the positive post of the dead battery to the positive post of the live battery. After you do this, Then, wait for a couple of minutes while the cars are connected and the battery is receiving power. Now, start the car that has the bad battery and it should s...
How To: Utilize the informational display in the 2010 Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to utilize the informational display in the 2010 Prius. This is in the middle of the panel display and appears after the welcoming screen. It includes a clock at the top and can be changed when you press the correct button on the steering wheel. Pressing the display button will bring up different screens to give you information on how your vehicle is running and give you history of it. It will also provide access to settings of your car so you can change the clo...
How To: Install a cold air intake (CAI) for a 96-04 Mustang
In this tutorial, we learn how to install a cold air intake for a 96-04 Mustang. First, you will need to lift up the hood and locate/disconnect all wiring harnesses. Then remove the bolt around the air filter housing and set aside. Separate the intake and the housing, then pull out the air filter housing. Reinstall rubber grommets that may have come out, then disconnect all hoses from the engine. Put the intake and the pieces together, then you will start to place it back into the car the way...
How To: Use steering wheel controls in the 2010 Prius
In this video, we learn how to use steering wheel controls in the 2010 Prius. The Prius has steering wheel mounted controls that come with touch tracer display. When you press these, the display produces the duplicate on the panel to see what you are doing. This is located in the driver's line of sight. You will find radio, volume, and radio channel controls on the left hand side. You will also find voice activation and phone on the left hand side. The switches on the right hand side will hel...
How To: Operate the audio system of a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to operate the audio system of a 2010 Prius. Every Prius comes standard with a 6-speaker AM/FM tuner with a single CD player. There is an 8-speaker with 6-disk changer available as well. The top of the line comes with a premium auto system and a navigation system. The left hand knob switches the system on and off and controls the volume. To set a radio station, use the manual knob and press it down until you hear a beep when you find the station you want to list...
How To: Adjust the interior lights in a 2010 Prius
In this video, we learn how to adjust the interior lights in a 2010 Prius. To adjust the intensity of lights, rotate the thumb wheel that is left to the steering wheel. Rotating up increases the intensity of the lights. Rotating downwards dims the instrument panel lights. There is a central light switch located on the roof. There are three positions that turn the lights on, off, and auto. There are also right and left map lights which you can switch to turn on or off. The lighting in this car...
How To: Adjust the mirrors in a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to adjust the mirrors in a 2010 Prius. The interior rear view mirror will dim automatically if it sense a glare coming into it. You can turn this function on and off by pressing the buttons on the mirror. There are also outside mirrors that have controls to the left of the steering wheel. Press the buttons to adjust the area the lens is at. There is also a defroster that will activate when you turn on the front or rear defroster. This will loosen any ice from th...
How To: Access XM Satellite Radio in a 2010 Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to access XM satellite radio in a 2010 Prius. To access this feature, press the "sat" button the dash or the "sat" button the steering wheel. You can also use the voice recognition button on the steering wheel by saying "satellite radio" out loud after pressing it. You can search for music by channel or use the type scan button while in audio mode to find the type of music you prefer. There are a variety of channels offered, look at your channel guide to find th...
How To: Change temperature settings in a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this video, we learn how to change the temperature settings in a 2010 Prius. All the climate controls are on the center console. The steering wheel can also help you change the temperature control. Press the green switch first then you will be able to set the temperature that you want the car to be. The system will then maintain that temperature. If you want to use the fan, select the fan and then select the speed you want it to be at. There is also a front and rear defroster you can press...
How To: Choose which driving mode to use in the 2010 Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to choose which driving mode to use in the 2010 Prius. The Prius offers four drive modes: normal, eco, power, and ev mode. To activate the mode, press the appropriate button the center console and the light will appear in the center console. Now, you can press it again to deactivate it if you no longer want it on. The Prius has a driving range of 1/2 mile and can operate at 25 mph using light throttle. If the battery needs charging or the speed exceeds 25 mph th...
Scantily Clad Chick Presents: Chainsaw Powered Chopper
If you liked the mini dragster powered by 6 circular saws, then you'll love this Harley-Davidson powered by 24 chainsaws (complete with hot babe).
How To: Clean the polycarbonate headlights on your car after they turn yellow
Polycarbonate headlights are still the most common type of auto headlight. One of their many problems is that after years of use they often fade and turn yellow, sending less light onto the road. Watch this video to learn how to clean your headlights and get them working like new again.
How To: Replace an oil pressure sending unit to fix a low engine oil pressure gauge
Your "check gauges" light comes on inside your vehicle, which prompts you to notice your oil pressure gauge, which is reading pretty low. What do you do to resolve this car problem? In this video, Scotty Kilmer shows you what you can do to shut that low engine oil light off for good!
News: The World's First Victorious Human-Powered Ornithopter
A major milestone in aviation occurred this past August, when the human-powered Snowbird, an aircraft made of carbon fiber and balsa wood, achieved the first successful flight of its kind.
How To: Fix an idle surge on an 04 Mazda
The patient in this auto maintenance video is an 04 Mazda van that surges at idle but works perfectly otherwise. This video will give you a quick tip on diagnosing this idle surge problem before you start replacing parts.
How To: Confirm error code P 0340 on a Nissan by checking the cam sensor
Just because your car shows an error code doesn't mean you should pull any parts. This video will show you how to confirm error code P 0340 on a Nissan (Bad Cam Sensor) by using a lab scope to check the cam sensor.
How To: Read a window motor electrical diagram for a car
Electrical diagrams are hard to read for all but the most mechanically-inclined, and the ones for the power windows on cars are notoriously complicated. This three-part video will teach you how to read these diagrams and make sense of what you see.
How To: Diagnose a problem with the cooling fan relay on a Chrysler
The cooling fans on Chrysler cars are not particularly well-made, but that doesn't mean you can assume that they are broken the second the cooling system stops working. Watch this video to figure out how to diagnose problems with the cooling fan relay on a Chrysler.
How To: Change the rear brakes on a Ford Taurus
Changing the rear brakes on your car is an essential piece of maintenance that you can probably do yourself at home with a little help. Watch this video o learn how t o change the rear brakes on a Ford Taurus.
How To: Test whether error code P0401 on a 2004 Ford Focus is accurate
Error code P0401 on a 2004 Ford Focus indicates EGR Insufficient Flow, which usually means your DPFE sensor needs to be replaced. If you're not sure though, and you shouldn't be, watch this video to learn how to perform a test that will make sure your DPFE sensor is actually broken before you replace it.
How To: Stop the AC from blowing hot on Chevy Colorado pickup
The air conditioner in your car is supposed to keep your cool, so if yours is blowing hot air all the time you're probably pretty pissed. If you own a Chevy Colorado and your condenser is good, watch this video to learn a fix that may get your AC working again.
How To: Replace the axel seals and shoes and the wheel cylinders on a '65 Ford Mustang
A 1965 Mustang is a beautiful piece of machinery, but like most classic cars they require constant maintenance. Watch this two-part video to learn how to replace the axel seals and shoes and the wheel cylinders on your own classic beauty.
How To: Diagnose a bad cylinder head fast and sure
Cylinder heads are tough pieces of metal, and determining whether one is bad if it isn't snapped in half isn't as easy as it sounds. Watch this video to learn a fast and accurate way of assessing whether a cylinder head is bad.
How To: Adjust the headlights on a car
The headlights on your car are vital to your safety, but there are all sorts of ways their functionality can be impaired. If yours aren't lighting the road to your satisfaction, watch this video to find out some things you can adjust to fix the light.
How To: Change the cabin air filter on Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner, or Mazda Tribute
Did you know that the Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner, and Mazda Tribute are all almost exactly the same car? Take that however you will, but it does mean most repairs that work a certain way on one work the same way on all three. Watch this video to learn how to change the cabin air filter in any of the three cars.
How To: Replace the clock spring on a Chrysler van
If you own a Chrysler van and find yourself with a broken horn and an air bag light on, those are probably caused by the same problem: a broken clock spring. Watch this video to learn how to replace your own clock spring and get your horn back.