Coolant leaks and corrosion – a unique challenge on an older vehicle (1996 T100)
CARspec recently replaced the timing belt and water pump on a 1996 T100. During this service, we encountered corrosion typical of a 20 year old MN owned vehicle and wanted to share a bit of expertise on dealing with corrosion and rust, specific to cooling systems and when rust may cause leaks. The following are the leaks we repaired during the process and how we repaired this Toyota.
DIY 2010+ Prius oil change
Adventurous? You can change your 2010+ Prii's oil fairly easily. You'll need 5 quarts of synthetic 0w20 oil, an oil filter (we recommend Toyota OEM), a 14mm wrench, a small screwdriver, a special tool to remove the oil filter housing, a drain pan, a jack, jackstands and a DIY spirit.
1992 SC400 timing belt
We had the pleasure of replacing the Lexus SC400's 22 year old timing belt and took a few photos along the way.
Induction cleaning for direct injection Lexus engines
Since their introduction in 2006, the Lexus series of direct injection engines have become known for fouling intake valves with carbon deposits, leading to misfires, check engine lights and a rough idle.
Replacing individual HV/Prius battery cells
CARspec's rebuilt HV battery supplier Dorman offers a 3-year, unlimited mileage warranty for non-fleet HV batteries, and a 1 year, unlimited mileage warranty on Toyota/Lexus OEM new hybrid batteries.
Spark plug replacement and hybrid misfires
Routine maintenance improves the performance, fuel economy, and extends the life of your Toyota, Lexus or Scion. An oft neglected maintenance item is the spark plug.
Differential fluid/gear lube replacement
Owning an all wheel drive or four wheel drive Toyota is great for Minnesota winters, but with that advantage comes additional maintenance cost in the form of differential and transfer case fluid changes. Why do these fluids need to be changed, and what are the fluids being put into your vehicle?
Brake replacement on hybrids
A hybrid vehicle uses its friction brakes (brakes in the wheels) far less than a conventional vehicle - the hybrid system can use the electric motors to slow the vehicle. Less use means less wear, but less use can also mean more problems down the road. When, then, should you replace the friction brakes on your hybrid?
Replacing your Hybrid Battery – New vs. Rebuilt
As the population of hybrids ages, more people are experiencing hybrid battery (also known as the traction battery) failure due to cell variance, internal terminal corrosion, or as a result of overheating due to a clogged or failed fan. Once the battery failure has been diagnosed the owner must decide what kind of replacement […]