Fix It

Car air conditioner systems have multiple parts and if any of them malfunction your air conditioner may stop working properly. If you find your cars air conditioning system is not producing the cool air it used to, there are a number of simple ways to investigate the cause of the problem. Most air conditioner malfunctions occur due to a lack of rigerant, sometimes caused by leaks in the air conditioning unit.

Instructions

Check the Refrigerant Level

1

Turn off your car, then open the hood and locate your air conditioning unit. Air conditioning units are located at various places depending on the type of car you own. If you have trouble finding it, consult your car manual. The unit will have a compartment for the rigerant and a fan system.

2

Connect the AC pressure gauge to the side port of the air conditioning unit. Turn on the car and allow the engine to run for a few minutes.

3

Depress the accelerator. If the AC pressure gauges meter dips down when you accelerate, there is not enough rigerant in the vehicle.

Check for Leaks

4

Visually inspect the air conditioning unit with your car running. Check to see if the compressor is cycling and if the fan belt seems work.

5

Inject a small amount of auto-safe florescent dye into the air conditioning unit. This florescent dye is available at most auto parts stores and allows you to see any leaks or damage in the air conditioner unit. Follow the directions for insertion on the can.

6

Visually inspect the air conditioner unit for any holes or leaks in the pipes, tubes or compressors. The florescent dye will cover any holes or cracks, making them easy to spot.

7

Fix cracks or holes before adding more rigerant to prevent pollution and damage to your vehicle.

The Acura brand is manufactured by Honda and was introduced in 1986. If your Acura is malfunctioning, it needs servicing or repair. Attending to any problems with your Acura will prolong the life of your car.

Instructions

1

Change a dysfunctional or dead battery on your Acura. Turn off the engine. Prop open the hood. Disconnect both battery cables, the negative cable first. Detach the clamp that fastens the battery in place. Remove the old battery. Place it on the ground beside you. Insert the new battery into the battery tray. Refasten the clamp that holds the battery in place. Clean the battery cables. Put some petroleum jelly on the ends of the cable. Reconnect the battery cables, the positive cable first. Tighten the connections using the wrench. Close the hood. Start the engine. Let the engine run for at least ten minutes.

2

Replace any blown fuses on your Acura. Turn off the engine. Prop open the hood. The fuse panel is located directly in front of the steering column. Remove the cover. The blown fuse will be blackened. Remove the fuse with your fingers. Replace the fuse with a new fuse of equal amperage. Pop the new fuse into the old slot. It should go in quite easily. Start the engine to make sure any electrical issues caused by the blown fuse have now been remedied. Replace the cover. Close the hood.

3

Go to a website that provides repair estimates such as Repairpal. Select "Acura" from the "Select Car Make" drop-down menu. Click "Get an Estimate." Enter the year and model of your Acura using the drop boxes. Click "Select Service Type." A list of service and repair issues and tasks will open. Choose the option that best relates to your car. Enter your zip code. Click "Get an Estimate." Review your results. This includes a price estimate and information related to the problem, including misdiagnoses, symptoms and background information. A list of independent auto shops and dealerships in your area will also appear on the page.

4

Contact an auto shop in your area. Give a description of your Acuras status that is as specific as possible based on your research. Make an appointment and bring your car in for repair.

There are a variety of reasons why a car audio amplifier might malfunction, most of which render the amplifier useless until it has been fixed. Most car amplifiers are fitted with a function that completely shuts the amp down if there isnt a complete circuit connected to the amplifier, but it may not help you fully diagnose the problem. Most problems lie within the wires themselves, so making sure theyre repaired and working properly is key.

Instructions

1

Find the red wire on the left side of the amplifier. Connect one end of the voltmeter to this wire and the other end to a piece of exposed metal. This should make a complete circuit. If the amplifier does not power on following this, then the problem may be with the amplifiers wiring.

2

Find the ground wire at the back of the amplifier. The wire is black and should be attached to a piece of exposed metal. Apply a piece of electrical tape to the ground wire and attach it firmly to a piece of exposed metal if not already connected. This creates a full circuit.

3

Remove the white fuse from the fuse terminal located on the left of most amplifiers and replace it with a new one. A blown fuse will generate no power for the amplifier, rendering it useless.

4

Stick pieces of electrical tape to each wire that is coming out and into the back of the amplifier. Each wire is partially exposed at one section to allow a connection to the fuse terminal. However, this can cause short circuits, and the connection between these wires and the fuse terminal isnt vital as it is powered by the main wire running on the side of the amplifier.

Original equipment manufacturer car parts are identical to the parts installed in cars at the time theyre built. OEM is a term used when erring to these types of car parts.

Description

Most automobile makers do not manufacture the car parts used in the production of the vehicles they build. Hired manufacturing companies are used for this purpose.

Process

The OEM company builds the parts and puts them in boxes with the car manufacturers name on them. Customers may theore believe they are buying a part directly built by the car manufacturer.

Features

After a specified period of time, varying by manufacturer, the car parts manufactured by OEMs no longer are placed in boxes with the car manufacturers name. At this time, the parts are placed in boxes with only the OEM companys name on it. The parts are identical, but cost less because the brand name is no longer on the package.

Motor oil insures your cars engine runs properly and provides you with reliable transportation. The oil should be changed according to the manufacturers instructions for optimal performance and longevity.

Function

Fresh motor oil is an amber color. Black oil is oil that has collected dirt and impurities from your engine. The purpose of motor oil is to lubricate the moving parts of the cars engine so it can perform as specified. When oil is black, it means its viscosity (the ability to flow as a liquid) is impaired. It will not flow and lubricate as easily and the engines moving parts will suffer more wear from daily activities and wear out more quickly.

Solution

All car manufacturers have different standards for motor oil. The optimal amount of time to change oil is usually measured in miles. The common rule of thumb used to be 3,000 miles, but many auto manufacturers have increased that to 7,500 miles. For best results, er to your cars operation manual or contact your auto manufacturer or a qualified and licensed mechanic. It is best to er to these sources as it differs for each car.

Considerations

Black oil indicates engine health. Black oil generally means the engine requires an oil change. Engines also can use up oil as they age or are used more frequently. If the car is driven more than usual, changing the oil before the mileage limit specified by the car manufacturer is recommended.

The catalytic converter is part of an automobiles exhaust system. Its function is to convert carbon monoxide and other organic compounds into less environmentally harmful emissions, such as carbon dioxide and water. The catalytic converter helps reduce automotive pollutants and toxic emissions.

History

In the late 1960s, California and other states began requiring the automotive industry to reduce the level of emissions released by cars and trucks. By 1975, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and federal government established stringent regulations for the reduction of emissions. As a result, automotive engineers designed and developed an external converter through which gases would pass and be altered to less harmful products. Today nearly all internal combustion engine vehicles use catalytic converters.

Defining a Catalyst

A catalyst is a substance that allows a chemical reaction to occur at a faster rate or different temperature than it would under normal conditions. In a cars catalytic converter, the surface of the converter (part of the exhaust system) is coated with platinum or rhodium which serves as the catalyst in combination with high heat.

What Happens

Automotive exhaust, which is produced by the internal combustion engine, is a combination of nitrogen, carbon monoxide, organic compounds and water vapor. As the exhaust passes through the catalytic converter, it undergoes a chemical reaction when it comes into contact with the catalyst. The catalyst separates the nitrogen atoms from the oxygen and alters the other organic compounds. The gases are modified into less harmful byproducts and released into the environment.

Location

While the exact location varies by make and model of vehicle, the catalytic converter is mounted with the exhaust system. Typically, it is placed near the vehicles engine between the exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipes where fumes can pass through it before being released into the environment. Heat plates separate the catalytic converter from the exhaust manifold, protecting the vehicles engine from high heat.

Over a period of time, car panels will start to rust. Although rust is generally easy to treat, it can damage a cars look and sale value if not treated properly and quickly. It is best to treat the problem as soon as you notice the rust; failure to deal with it quickly will see the problem increase and become a lot harder to deal with.

Instructions

1

Locate the area on the car panel affected with rust. Use the sandpaper and white spirit to remove the rust by rubbing it. White spirit is a cleaning liquid solvent primarily used to remove stains, rust and dirt from objects such as cars and brick.

2

Use the wire brush to scrape away any rust still on the panel.

3

Put some rust solvent on another piece of sandpaper and gently wipe the area where the rust was. This will get rid of any micro bits of rust left.

4

Put tape around the area where the rust was and then spread an even amount of epoxy body filler over the area. Allow it to dry for a few hours. The filler will cover any scratches or small holes that the rust caused and the tape will protect your car from paint. Sand to smooth surface.

5

Cover the area of the panel with primer. When dry, paint the area of the car panel which was affected with a paint matching the car, using the tape as a boundary. Allow the first coat to dry and then apply a second.

6

After the second coat is dry, polish and wax the area to finish off your repaired car panel.

Unlike the first mass-produced cars of a century ago, cars today have advanced control systems that are computer dependent. Being computer dependent, more and more information about how the car is functioning goes to the on-board computer. The vehicle speed sensors are the gatherers of this information.

Vehicle Speed Sensor Description

Cars manufactured today are dependent on on-board computers. The computer receives the information it needs to have a car operate properly from strategically located vehicle speed sensors. Most vehicle speed sensors are of the permanent magnet type. They function similarly to a cam shaft or crankshaft sensor. The installed sensors are either in the transmission case or rear differential assembly. When a speed sensor fails, the cars check engine light comes on and a code goes to the computer and can be read at a service station.

Locating Speed Sensors

This code indicates which sensor has failed and what the problem is. Occasionally, a sensor will fail without sending a code. If the driveability of the car is suspect, say the power steering isnt working and the ABS brakes are stuttering, a mechanic can check the vehicles manual and quickly find if the same speed sensor is controlling both modules.

Speed Sensors Control Many Functions

Modules or functions that use information from vehicle speed sensors include the variable assist power steering unit where the information from a speed sensor regulates the power steering pressure with higher pressure at low speeds and vice versa. This makes things like parallel parking maneuvers easier.

A cars anti-lock braking system (ABS) also uses information from a speed sensor to decide when a wheel has locked up and thus commands the ABS to cut pressure in order for the driver to maintain control of the car. While some cars use separate sensors for the ABS, it is common that the computer uses the information from the wheel sensors to act as a vehicle speed sensor. For example, many newer Ford vehicles use a rear axle mounted speed sensor for ABS and vehicle speed functions that are computer related.

Both traditional and hybrid cars use information from vehicle speed sensors for the speedometer display.

Many new cars have developed suspension systems that use vehicle speed sensor information to control the height of the ride. They adjust the ride down for better control at higher speeds for improved maneuverability.

Automatic transmissions must have the information from a vehicle speed sensor to decide shift strategy.

Additionally, cruise control depends on speed sensor information to know when to engage and when to disengage, as well as when to cruise at a set speed.

All Electronic Engine Control (EEC) systems use some speed sensor information to perform their tasks.

Car keys come in various forms depending on the make, model and year of your vehicle. Newer-model cars feature keys equipped with computer chips that correspond to the computer chip in your specific vehicle. Older-model vehicles do not have computer chips in the keys. If you lose your car key, you have two options: call the dealership of your vehicle or call a professional locksmith.

Instructions

1

Locate your cars vehicle identification number (VIN). VINs are recorded in your original vehicle paperwork, on your insurance information, and on your vehicle registration and title. You can also locate your VIN by looking at the bottom left side of your windshield or at the drivers door panel.

2

Call the dealership specific to your vehicles make, or call any professional locksmith. Both are equipped to make replacement keys for vehicles with and without computer chips in the keys.

3

Provide the locksmith/dealership with your VIN. The VIN states the specifics of your car, such as whether or not the key needs programming, and the cut of your key to make it match your car.

4

Pay for your new keys and the service of either the dealership or locksmith.

Vehicles are equipped with key codes, which are number sequences that link a key to its specific vehicle. If you need a new key for your vehicle, youll need to have the key code to create your key; without it, you wont be able to start your car. Key codes are noted in the paperwork given to you when you purchased your car. If you cannot find the key code in your paperwork, dont panic because your vehicle identification number contains your key code as well.

Instructions

1

Contact your local car dealership or a professional locksmith to request a new key for your vehicle. Both will need to make sure they have the correct type of blank key for the make and model of your vehicle.

2

Provide the dealership or locksmith with your key code. If you cant find your key code, you can provide them with your vehicle identification number (VIN). Your VIN is located on your vehicles paperwork, your car insurance paperwork, and your title and registration paperwork. It is also located on the drivers door panel and inside the windshield on the bottom left corner, visible from outside your car.

3

Schedule a time to go to your dealership and get your new key, or for your locksmith to come to you with your new keys. You will be asked to provide some form of proof that you are the owner of the vehicle, such as your registration or insurance card. Pay for the service provided to you and for your new keys.

In the early 1900s, people had to start their vehicles by turning a large crank at the front of the vehicle. In 1911, Cadillac approved Charles F. Ketterings design of the electric starter for its 1912 model year cars. Replacing a starter can be a difficult task in some vehicles, and it can be frustrating when the car does not start after all of your work. There are four main reasons for your car not cranking when you just got a new starter for it.

Incorrect Wiring

There are three wires that connect to the rear of the starter solenoid on most cars. If you forgot to label these wires and incorrectly reinstalled them, the starter will not work at all. Double-check the wiring of the starter against a wiring schematic for the starting system and adjust it, as needed.

Electrical Shorts

Any time you replace any electrical component on your vehicle that has constant voltage from the battery, you must disconnect the battery prior to servicing it. If you left the battery connected while installing the starter, it is possible for you to unintentionally touch the power and ground cables together. This may cause a short inside the battery or in the wiring, resulting in the car not starting. Check the voltage coming into the starter, using a voltmeter. If little or no voltage comes into the starter, inspect the wires and battery for shorts.

Misdiagnosis

It is possible that the starter was not the problem to begin with. If not correctly diagnosed, it is easy to mistake many other problems with starter failure. Some problems that result in similar symptoms as a failed starter include, but are not limited to: failed ignition switch, discharged battery, loose battery cables, security system failure, failed starter solenoid (if separate) or damaged flywheel or flexplate.

Faulty Starter

When the manufacturer builds a new starter or rebuilds an old starter, it tests the starters prior to shipping them to retail stores or end-users. This testing typically catches any failed starters prior to shipment, but human error does allow for a small percentage of failed starters to ship out. After checking the areas described in the three previous sections, remove the starter and take it to a local parts store to have it tested. In the future, have all electro-mechanical components tested before installing them.

On an automobile, the intake manifold is mounted to the engine block above the cylinder or port openings. Older intake manifolds are made of cast iron, but most new ones are plastic or die-cast aluminum.

Purpose on Older Engines

On older vehicles the intake manifold delivers the right mixture of air and fuel evenly to each of the cylinders. Heat vaporizes this mixture, providing optimum delivery in mist form.

Location on Older Engines

On an older engine, both sides are flanked by the valve covers, and its top is partially obstructed from view by the carburetor and air cleaner mounted above.

Purpose on Newer Engines

New engines have replaced the carburetor with a tuned-port injection system. Because these deliver the fuel directly to the ports, air and fuel no longer need to be mixed in the intake manifold. On these engines the purpose of the intake manifold is to deliver the proper amount of air to each of the ports, where it will be mixed with the fuel.

Location on Newer Engines

On newer engines, the intake manifold is connected to the ports on the engine. Hoses attached to the intake manifold are to operate vacuum systems such as brakes, cruise control and the air-conditioning. (See References 1)

Having a key cut for your Ford car can be tricky if you dont have another key to use as a template. When you need to have a key cut and dont have another key to work from, you still have practical options. Ford codes the car keys to the ignition tumbler. That coding is available to Ford Parts managers and service managers. If you need to have a new key cut for your Ford, and you have access to a Ford dealership, getting a key is a snap.

Instructions

1

Locate your nearest Ford dealership. If youre not sure where it is, navigate your web browser to ford.com and click the "Locate A Dealer" link at the top of the web page. Input your zip code in the search field and click "search" to see a display of nearby Ford dealerships.

2

Go to the Ford Dealers Parts Department with your Ford Cars VIN number, a state-issued ID and proof of vehicle ownership.

3

Request to have a key cut for your Ford car. The Parts or Service manager will need to see the VIN number in order to pull up the key code. Ford requires all dealership personal to verify your identity and confirm that you own the car before cutting a key; this policy is to prevent theft.

4

Your next step? Pick up your new key.

Your cars trunk is designed to securely and safely store groceries, luggage or anything else you might want to put into it. If your trunk is doing its job a little too well--namely, if you cant get inside your trunk--try not to panic. Although there may indeed be a problem with your trunk itself, your first priority should be getting your belongings out of it--and during this process, you may just find the solution to the problem.

Instructions

1

Try using multiple methods to open your trunk. For example, most cars have a switch you can pull just inside the car on the drivers side which will "pop" the trunk. If your key isnt working, try pulling this switch--and vice versa. Press the "Trunk" button on your keyless entry device, if you have one.

2

Remove your belongings from your trunk if you cannot open the trunk itself. Depending on which kind of car your own, you may be able to pull down your back seat and free your belongings from the locked trunk. Once the trunk is empty, inspect the area around the lock to see if anything is caught on it which could prevent it from opening.

3

Call a locksmith if you still cant get your trunk to open. If neither varying the method you use to open the trunk nor inspecting its lock to see if there is any obstruction resolves your problem, there is a mechanical issue with the lock.

Car headlights are an essential part of safely running a vehicle. Since headlights are electrical fixtures powered by your cars electricity, they share all the problems associated with electrical fixtures.

Physical Issues

The most obvious issue that can affect your headlights is the bulbs. They can burn out like any other light bulb. Any damage to your cars front end can damage your bulb or its connections. You can check these; also check your fuses to see if one has blown.

Electrical Issues

Electrical issues can be thought as a line of electricity which begins at the battery, goes to the alternator, the fuse box, the light switch and finally ends at your headlights. Any lapse in this continuity can cause problems. Check each aspect sequentially. Begin by starting the car. If it starts, the battery isnt the problem. If the car idles, the alternator isnt the problem. If the fuse is good, you have ruled out everything up to the relay, light switch and bulb. If the bulbs are fine, the problem is most likely the switch.

It is important to keep your vehicles brake lights functioning well. Brake lights serve as a guide to the driver behind you to brake when you are slowing your car down. Malfunctioning brake lights could cause accidents on the road. Fixing the car brake lights usually involves changing the malfunctioning light bulb.

Instructions

1

Park your vehicle and turn off the ignition. Open the vehicles trunk and access the brake light assembly and remove the red and yellow plastic cover of the brake lights by unscrewing it using the Phillips-head screwdriver in order to access the light bulb. Set aside the screws as it will be needed later on.

2

Locate the brake light bulb. It is usually the center bulb of three bulbs located in the area. Unscrew the brake light bulb by pushing it slightly and turning it counterclockwise at the same time. Set it aside.

3

Clean the area where you removed the bulb with a dry rag. You can also use a steel brush if there is accumulated dirt on the socket. The accumulated dirt can sometimes be the cause of the malfunctioning brake light.

4

Install a new light bulb on the socket by pushing it slightly and twisting it in a clockwise direction. Make sure the bulb is aligned well and screwed in evenly.

5

Check the light bulb to ensure it works by turning on the car and asking someone to push on the brake pedal while you go to the back of the vehicle to see if it lights up.

6

Reattach the plastic cover by inserting the screws in the designated holes and tightening the screws, turning clockwise, using the Phillips-head screwdriver. Put back the brake light assembly at the back of the vehicles trunk.

7

Remove the brake light cover on the vehicles other side and follow steps 2 to 6 to replace the light bulb.

Seat belts are the bedrock of automotive passenger safety, and when they break they must be attended to quickly. But the forces at play in a car crash are such that merely repairing a seat belt is a bad idea. A properly functioning seat belt could save a life, and rather than being repaired, seat belts must be replaced altogether to avoid the malfunctioning of any individual part. Seat belt replacement can be done at home with the right tools and technique.

Instructions

1

Remove the car seat. Remove the bolts at the base of the car seat and remove the seat from the vehicle. This will allow easier access to the seat belt.

2

Remove the interior panels that cover the seat belt and retractor.

3

Pull back the bolt cover of the bolt attaching the buckle portion of the seat belt to the floor of the vehicle.

4

Remove the bolt attaching the buckle portion of the seat belt to the floor of the vehicle with a socket driver.

5

Remove the bolt attaching the retractor with a socket driver.

6

Use a socket driver to remove the bolt that holds the bracket the seat belt is threaded through.

7

Remove the retractor and belt bracket.

8

Pull back the cover over the bolt attaching the belt portion of the seat belt.

9

Remove the bolt attaching the belt portion of the seat belt to the floor of the vehicle.

10

Discard the broken seat belt.

11

Bolt the new retractor in place with a socket driver.

12

Use a socket driver to bolt in the new bracket the seat belt is threaded through.

13

Bolt the belt side of the seat belt to the floor of the vehicle with a socket driver.

14

Slide the bolt cover over the bolt that attaches the belt side of the seat belt to the floor of the vehicle.

15

Bolt the buckle portion of the seat belt to the bottom of the vehicle with a socket driver.

16

Slide the bolt cover over the bolt that attaches the buckle portion of the seat belt to the floor of the vehicle.

17

Replace all interior panels that cover the seat belt and retractor.

18

Bolt the car seat back onto the floor of the vehicle with a socket driver.

Extended warranties are available as a full bumper-to-bumper warranty (which covers all but maintenance items) or a powertrain warranty (which covers all major components of the engine and transmission), or sometimes a lesser version of bumper-to-bumper coverage. The warranties can be purchased from an aftermarket provider or from the manufacturer through a dealership. Prices, mileage, deductibles and terms differ widely, so while one may seem cheaper, it may not give you the coverage you need. Learn how to compare extended car warranties.

Instructions

1

Choose a warranty that suits your vehicle. If you have a car that lacks power windows or locks, you probably dont need an extended bumper-to-bumper warranty. If you have all the bells and whistles, having a full bumper-to-bumper warranty may serve its purpose well, as sunroofs, heated seats or navigation systems can prove expensive for repair or replacement.

2

Ask for a list of covered items for the warranties you are comparing. While the technical terms for covered repairs or parts may seem confusing, you should ask any questions to the warranty representative, so that you are sure what is covered and what is not. Compare printed lists to determine similarities and differences, and ask questions if you find any covered items missing from contracts you are comparing.

3

Compare the term and mileage for your warranty. You should ask for coverage that suits your driving needs, such as a 15,000-mile-per-year instead of a 10,000-miles-per-year allowance if you commute. For those who do not drive much, the years are more important than the mileage, such as a four-year, 40,000-mile-per-term warranty over a two-year, 40,000-mile-per-term option.

4

Compare prices and deductibles. Once youve determined comparable coverage and a term that fits your needs, pay close attention to the deductible. You should note that deductibles are charged per incident, so make sure you are choosing an affordable deductible, although some warranties are available without a deductible.

5

Ask where you can service your car. If youre purchasing from a manufacturer, you can use any same-make, new-car dealer. Extended warranties are usually accepted by any shop that uses the company. Find out if you are expected to pay first and be reimbursed later, or call around to shops in your area to ask if they take the warranty that you are considering for purchase.

6

Ask if the warranty is transferable. This means that if you sell your car during the contract period, you can offer the remainder of coverage with your sale. Or, ask if you can be prorated back any of the contract cost amount should you cancel the warranty at a later date.

One of the most important functions of a cars exhaust system is to protect the occupants of the vehicle from hazardous fumes. If the exhaust system leaks, carbon monoxide and other waste gases can collect in the cabin and harm or kill the passengers. Because of the abuse and exposure suffered by the exhaust system, faulty or leaking parts are usually replaced. If the exhaust system is sound enough, it can be repaired.

Braze Welding

Braze welding is a way to join two metals with different melting temperatures. The filler metal has a lower melting point than the base metal. Small holes in a muffler may be patched by braze welding filler material into the holes. Larger holes in a muffler may be repaired by braze welding patches of steel over the holes.

Brazing

Brazing is similar to braze welding in that the filler material has a lower melting temperature than the base metal. The difference between brazing and braze welding is that in brazing the filler metal is drawn into the joint by capillary action. In plumbing, this process is called "sweating" a joint. Exhaust pipes can be repaired at the joints by brazing.

Why Does the Shop Want to Replace Instead of Repair?

Repairs to any metal can only be done where the metal is in good shape. The exhaust system of a car is subjected to abuse from both the inside and the outside of the system. The temperatures of exhaust gases are high enough to weaken any metal. Cars driven in areas that use salt to clear snow from the road can suffer corrosion very quickly. If an exhaust system is more than two or three years old, it probably is not a candidate for repair.

Benefits of Braze Welding or Brazing

Joining metals with either a brazed or a braze-welded joint can result in a stronger joint than traditional welding because of the difference in melting points between the two materials. If steel is heated to near its melting point then allowed to cool slowly, it becomes weak. With either of these techniques, the steel never gets hot enough to be damaged.

All cars are fitted with the standard shoulder belt. This belt goes over the shoulder and lap, offering maximum protection for the passenger. Seat belts do become subject to casual wear and tear; sometimes they can stop working altogether, making it dangerous for the driver and passengers. Fixing a problem with a seat belt buckle involves dismantling the seat belt.

Instructions

1

Fully extend the whole of the seat belt to check for kinks.

2

Remove the bolt underneath the seat belt buckle. Hold the retractor straight and thread the seatbelt out. Remove the seat in the car if you need to gain a closer inspection of the belt.

3

Use the screwdriver to unscrew the current buckle from the car.

4

Screw in the new buckle. Then thread the seat belt through the new buckle.

5

Reinstall the small bar underneath the buckle to hold it in place.

6

Pull the seat belt out to make sure its working properly.

7

Reinstall the seat if necessary.