Don't Be A Dirtbag Mechanic - Take A Little Pride In Your Work

[@Mrdubomb]

An older, wiser man (former boss) once told me the sign of a good mechanic will be when after you have fixed the car, it went back together exactly the way it came apart and nobody ever knew you were there.

[@doylesmith8678]

Mrdubomb this is why I diy all my own repairs. I'm not a "mechanic", for anyone but myself and family's autos. I will invest the $$ in myself and tools to know the job is done correctly..I've seen too much come from shops with "certified" mechanics.

[@Cheepchipsable]

Then they complain you didn't do anything because it "looks" the same...

[@alannorman6402]

Mrdubomb you are exactly right.

[@mrobvious5892]

Doyle’s smith You are soooo right! The number of incompetent thieving HACK mechanics out there is disgusting!! The problem is EVERYWHERE!!! Not just car mechanics. House repair contractors for the most part are a bunch of Sons of Bit@ch$es. Over the past 10 years I’ve had to self certify in everything from Furnace installation to Chimney Repointing and everything in between!! Can’t be paying for work and then have to turn around and do it all over again yourself!!!! Just do it yourself in the first place, at least then if anything’s wrong you got nobody to blame but yourself- - -

[@Mrdubomb]

Mr Obvious You are a man after my own heart

[@scottlambeth5478]

This reminds me of something I was told many years ago when I was in my technician classes. The instructor said "A mechanic's worst enemy will always be the mechanic that worked on the vehicle right before you". This is solid proof that what he said is absolutely true.

[@ferdburful6352]

I always hated those " buddy bugs" someone left you.

[@jasonn9907]

Of course, in my experience, more often than not the previous mechanic was the vehicle's owner (or family member).

[@TheCatOfAges]

ive felt that working on my 2006 crown victoria. the previous owner spliced wires, broke things, smoked, etc.

[@kevinstorm6009]

You're right, of course. But I've also added to my tool box over the years thanks to previous unknown "mechanics" who had worked on a vehicle and left tools behind.

[@ShortThrowShifting]

Had a customer come into our VW shop once saying that another shop was dead certain that he needed a new airbag control module and he wanted a second opinion. So I exercise my due diligence, take it slow, check the simple stuff. Sure enough, under the driver's seat was a tiny 16-18 gauge wire that has a very minor brown spot in the insulation right next to the connector. I decided to gently shave it back and found the wire had rotted into an open circuit. Repaired the wire, light went out, fault went away and as far as I'm aware he hasn't had an issue since. Saved him a couple thousand bucks and got a pat on the back for job well done. A happy customer is a returning customer, and usually brings in more business. A job worth doing is a job worth doing right, and it pays off in the long run, even if you have to take the extra time.

[@76nifer7]

YES! If there were a shop that I trusted- if I weren't HOURS away from SMA ... I would ALWAYS take my vehicles there. (I'm in Ohio - haven't found anyone who even talks to me like I might know a thing or two about cars - which I do. In years passed... B4 I got fed up &. Now do ALL repairs & maintenance on my own ( from 8" diffs, axle swaps, fuel filters, brake lines, radiators, all things suspension, carbs, steering clocks, leaks, windows, etc) Too many wrong diagnosis. Too much wasted money. I do it all myself now. And it's a PIMA! I have a whole other job to do, plus car fixes - uggggg!

[@kaygeebee]

I feel your pain.

[@themanthemyththelegend1392]

Jennifer Benvie that sound like old stuff... spelled easy labor jobs...

[@puckcat22679]

As a European car specialist myself, that particular wiring harness is the first thing I'd check on an early to mid 2000s VW with airbag issues. They're really bad for that, especially the Beetles. Let me guess- the customer had it at a dealer first? So many VW dealers hire a bunch of untrained guys that can follow a diagnostic flow chart, but when something comes up that the chart doesn't deal with, they can't handle it.

[@ShortThrowShifting]

@@puckcat22679 - I worked for a dealership. Started as an apprentice and worked my way up to a fully qualified tech. The techs there were excellent and were always being sent for new training at a nearby VW facility. The dealership went on to become the #1 rated in the area. But yeah, you nailed it, it was a 2001 Beetle.

[@McCabeno1]

I gotta tell you, Eric... I am amazed that in that town you live in anyone takes their car to any shop but South Main Auto!

[@lensmith7221]

I've often thought the same thing.

[@hornett22]

You'd be surprised what members of the Wal Mart generation will do to save a buck.

[@thethumper088]

They might as well in the first place. All the other shops in the area bring it to him to figure it out for them anyway.

[@medtec6747]

You've seen how stacked he gets I don't think he could keep up with the demand he may be a superhero but he's just one guy

[@mattharper588]

@Julius Sergio who gives a fuck about you,you are all over the place and are a ass hole

[@wrenchoperator6435]

TIP: Next time you're at Walmart or a similar store stop by the sewing area and get yourself a cheap little stitch ripper. It's the best tool ever for opening up harnesses, cutting through the tape quickly with zero risk of cutting the wire insulation.

[@jomanji1608]

I have used seam ripper for years. It really works well.

[@raybin6873]

Dam good idea! Opening harnesses with a knife poses risk of damaging wires - a precarious thing to do. I'm going to get one...thanks for the tip! 👍

[@tylerwilliams3868]

had the wifey buy me a pair of these! use them all the time!

[@autotek7930]

That's a damn good idea

[@eddiejones.redvees]

Good idea in my X job has a telephone engineer I came a cross plenty of taped joints with the wires damaged because of knife damage

[@rightlanehog3151]

My gosh! This truck hasn't even had a chance to start rusting yet.

[@NoWr2Run]

LMAO.

[@hocrest]

3:44 it has begun....

[@MAGWolf]

@@hocrest Yah its a chevy they rust in the lot a new.

[@iaxable]

Yes it has

[@metalbill2007]

It looks like a 20 year old truck underneath

[@bobbybentley8136]

Best time to work when everyone else is gone. The sound of silence is golden

[@sumduma55]

But it is hard to believe it is really a south main auto video without the air compressor kicking on at some point in time (generally when Eric is about to explain something critical to his diagnosis or trouble shooting thought process).

[@philliplancaster1273]

No phone ringing? Got to be filmed somewhere else.

[@MrCROBosanceros]

@@sumduma55 One of the best comments ever. I feel the same way whenever watching Eric's videos.

[@kootybear]

I love weekends, work at a freightliner dealer and crank the music.

[@raybin6873]

Ha ha ha....I noticed the quietness too! (He's working "overtime") 😁👍

[@MS-es9hm]

Every town in America should have a trusted and honest mechanic to come to like you. Thanks for what you do.

[@davisjames8484]

They do.

[@astanix]

@@davisjames8484 how do you find an honest mechanic though?

[@daleburrell6273]

@@astanix ...an "outstanding" mechanic- doesn't have to advertise.

[@daleburrell6273]

Popular Science magazine used to have a feature: "Gus Wilson and the Model Garage"- all the stories are on the internet.

[@raybin6873]

We have a good honest shop in Greensboro GA - they even repair vehicles local dealerships can't. They're a little bit more expensive but worth it! (I'm a mechanic myself - do all repairs on my vehicles). 👍

[@robertbarnett7993]

Top notch honest mechanic, no foul language, no drama just getting the job done. Awsome.

[@rjb6327]

I don't know about those MeMaw references. 😄

[@platachicken]

I wire cars all day long, It allows me to play my favorite game " guess whats under the black tape" game. I understand your frustration.

[@paulsmith5611]

Lol. Yup you never know what you will get when you unwrap it!

[@asconstruction4146]

It’s like surprise sex but your out of condoms what you do?

[@theah781]

@@asconstruction4146 😲 lol

[@BillinSD]

Eric: spends 15 minutes looking at wiring, finds break Me: Unzips 80% of the wiring harness before finding a fusible link...... Excellent work Mr. O

[@jennings20100]

HAHAHAHA SO DAMN TRUE!

[@phillipdewitt4454]

Eric looks at “buggered” wiring first and foremost. Few problems are encountered in unopened wiring harness.

[@mattfarahsmillionmilelexus]

Could be a salvage title light flood vehicle, would explain the no warranty situation and the wet wiring.

[@Davido50]

Yup. Not normal for these trucks have probs being newer etc

[@thesteveprichard]

@Dirty Harry Houston is my bet.

[@jeanvi52]

Stupid

[@j.c.smithprojects]

my guess is this was a flood salvage vehicle that was rebuilt....might explain why there is no warranty. may be just one of the electrical gremlins to show its face right now. hate to leave a harness like that in that new of a truck....this may just be the beginning of troubles.

[@1974kenm]

This was my first thought. Flood damage or salvage.

[@larryboy4905]

I think you hit the nail on the head.

[@yotajeff68]

Or it could be that it's a chevy

[@capnskiddies]

@@yotajeff68 a year old and fucked forever.

[@ifitsnotbrokenfixit1193]

I think you are correct J.C. I was thinking the same thing when Eric pulled the lum off.

[@md65000]

"Treat the person's car like it's your own" ---I'm afraid that would be the worst thing I could do!! My car would be much happier if I treated it like it was someone else's car.

[@charlestredway8253]

You do have a gift to find electrical problems. It’s a spiritual gift.

[@michaelmcgregor3108]

My favorite tool for wiring harness splitting and repair is a humble sewing seam ripper, lets you get in there and cut tape with minimal chance of harming the wires

[@thefordmaniac]

Yup and snap on charges 200 bucks for it!

[@tpcoachfix]

Seam ripper Snap On $200.00 Walmart sewing dept $2.00

[@85rx7se]

Those will work. I had suggested a safety cutter in my post above. .. www.walmart.com/ip/SLICE-SAFETY-CUTTER/13432904

[@Garth2011]

Thanks for the tip...perfect

[@ooelectronoo]

This is an awesome trick im going to have to invest in that

[@dukeman7595]

A Dirtbag Mechanic can be found in approx. 60 -70% of shops in my area, and that is very sad, but unfortunately true. The good ones don't stay because the owners don't pay.

it isn't just the pay. i worked at a ford dealership and management really expected ANY job to take no longer than an oil change. Got a ticket that pays 6 hours? management will be back in 25 to 30 minutes to tell you to hurry up and how you need to pick up the pace. My first dealership experience and i quit after 90 days because i realized that place would make me the worst tech i could be.

[@dukeman7595]

@Frost Dealerships are the worst for sure, even in Canada which don't surprise me. I'm looking for a decent vehicle from the early eighties that I can work on without computers in them.

[@WreckDiver99]

99% in my area...why don't the independents in my area get business? Simple, they are MORE expensive than the dealerships by me, don't do the job right, and try to sell you things you don't need (almost like a dealership). Had my M-I-L take her car for new tires to one of those tire shops (not the one that has Red-White-Blue and a tire that says its name)...Anyway, I had already done the brakes on this car (which is why I knew the tires had to be replaced), and they tell her she needs "Brakes, Rotors, Calipers, Tie Rods, Ball Joints, AND Struts". They tell her "well, we don't do that work, but we can recommend a shop for you"...She called me and asked and I said "Leave, just leave now and go to that other shop"...Yea...THIS is why Scumbag mechanics get a bad rap...and in my area? UGH...

[@chrism1966]

Joseph M yes so true

[@dukeman7595]

@@WreckDiver99 That's crazy. the bastards seem to prey on older women the most.

[@15743_Hertz]

It's a bit early for Holloween, but in this week's tale of horror, we present Auto Repair's Spooky Theater's presentation of "It came from the other shop!" (Queue the ominous organ music.)

[@streetskatedave]

That slow zoom on the initial green crusty really had me on the edge of my seat.

[@CubasAutomotive]

I HATE when ppl poke right AT the connector... wtf?? Why? In case the electrical liquid tape doesn't do its job, how do you repair that??? What HACKS!!

[@CheezyDee]

Will it be hosted by Count Floyd?

[@15743_Hertz]

@@CheezyDee Nope. Vincent Price and Elvira.

[@glenjones6980]

I was hearing the ominous organ music before I finished reading that :)

[@stephenkohler3472]

"If you don't have time to do it right when will you have time to do it over?" - Ancient irrigation tech wisdom

[@f-j-Services]

100% true.

[@rubenproost2552]

But if you do that then you are in fact treating other people's cars the same as your own.

[@feloniousalpha1815]

Thanks for this.

[@wolfpackman92]

I had a boss I had to tell that to. "If you're not giving me time to do it right will you at least give me time to fix it later when the CEO is asking why it's broken in the first place?"

[@elabayarde3377]

“Every job is a self-portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence.”

[@nagisaayanami]

Love this quote.. Im going to use this.

[@kontrarien5721]

That's fantastic.

[@randybeard6040]

Amen--Great Analogy...

[@hemisuperzee1287]

Yep, but unfortunately, for many its all about time since time is money. That said, some still cant do a good job when they take their time (should not be mechanics then). Have worked with many hacks, its hard to look away and mind my own business.

[@catlady8324]

Corny cliché

[@billmcveigh5875]

Dude, you remind me exactly of my father, I am 46 years old and he could diagnose anything especially electrical and transmissions. He owned his own business for 30 years and you my friend know exactly what your doing. I watch everything you put out because of that. Thanks man!!

[@andygause1339]

You sir are a master at electrical issues and I salute you sir wish I had the patience that you have for other peoples screw ups love your videos and keep them coming best wishes from Florida

[@danielc.3725]

Andy G. +, Fer sure, patience!, patience!, something like this will make a man drink or something of whatever....

[@andygause1339]

Northeast fl Jacksonville

[@Cjnchef]

I have personally seen your videos like this shown in community college auto tech classes. FYI

[@klwthe3rd]

Wow, that's awesome!

[@tdogboy7254]

Good teacher

[@zuestoots5176]

@@BeerkegGarage even for one who has been around the block a few times, some of his tips and diag's really help

[@keeganpock864]

My high school auto teacher would play chrisfix🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️ id always try and suggest sma videos

[@kellyconstenius676]

@@BeerkegGarage Me TOO!!! I live in Rustville, MN and have spent soooooo much time fighting to make a repair while also fighting the rust. The first time I saw him break out "big nasty" I swooned and said. " Got to get me one those" SMA is the best channel by far and its not even a close second. Expert knowledge in actual real world conditions tackling the real world problems.

[@jonathanmoore7472]

As a newer mechanic I’m really enjoying your content

[@inverseuniverse5727]

Eric , don't blame the technician , blame the shop . The values of the technician reflect the values of the shop . If bosses rushes tech , tech rushes diagnosis.

[@LFBsmokealarm]

Yay, sick in bed and I've got an SMA video to make me feel better. Thanks Eric O.

[@LostDryerSocks]

That makes two of us.

[@BlindBatG34]

Hope you guys feel better.

[@ericstevenson7696]

Same here. Tis the season 😒

[@stevenreynolds2327]

I must be doing something right, that just doesnt happen to me.

[@ichoozjc]

Sending y'all positive vibes.

[@papi-champoo6033]

Problem fixed now customer complains that their alignment is off.

[@pugbug288]

So true anything for free shit.

[@cindytepper8878]

But my brother in law's, cousin's, next door neighbor's friend said that you caused the alignment problem and he is an expert that works at Firestone

[@petemedina8446]

Yeah I've heard those things before you did a brake job and now their heater don't work.

[@jamesb1221222]

I like the repair orders that say "Customer's mechanic says *insert problem* is wrong with vehicle." Ok... why isn't your mechanic fixing the car if he knows what's wrong with it??

[@petemedina8446]

@@jamesb1221222 well it obvious he really doesn't know how or it wouldn't be at another shop

[@johnmcdonald3720]

Dont be so modest Eric, it's in your shop because your that good. 👍 I'm sure other shops say if Eric cant fix it, it cant be fixed. Great diag.

[@asskickingperformance3550]

John McDonald I would definitely say that if Eric O can’t fix it then it can’t be fixed and I’ve been working on cars all my life! This dude is something special no doubt!!

[@garysteele9141]

“Don’t be a dirtbag” #1 lesson in life.

[@americanstreet8704]

Gary Steele yup

[@BB-gb4eh]

I concur with a previous comment...looks like a flood salvage. This might be just the tip of the iceberg for that truck owner's issues coming down the road. Nice video!

[@theovandaele3220]

Mr. O.: Me: "I can do that!"

[@YDVDL]

You said it right: "TAKE PRIDE IN WHAT YOU DOING"...and huge THANKS for sharing this experience with us.

[@paullenzen2562]

I must admit, I was waiting for the compressor come on for the whole video.

[@buffsheeri]

me too, I want mustie to show up one day too

[@t-bear1863]

@@buffsheeri Oh that would be a day. Good one. Jeeps VS Vw's.

[@rob2267]

Dealer: “Well we butchered some harnesses and had the apprentice shove a module on top of the spare tire and it still didn’t run, idk not my problem” Eric O: “hold my test light”

[@dennymambo]

Lot's of unknowns... like the time frame. How much time elapsed between whoever nicked that wire and poohed up the rest of it, and the other shop receiving it. Could have been the Stealership doing something early on in it's life when it must surely have been under warranty. Or maybe the customer tore into it for some odd reason? Why would they though if it was under a manufacturers warranty? So many questions hahaha!

[@REDMAN298]

rob: test light = scope on a rope. bwahaha

[@billdougan4022]

@Nancy Pelosi I agree, sounds like the truck owner blew off steam at the dealer, and was told to leave. What a mess.

[@lyndelbeckwith1706]

I managed shops most of my life. Totally agree. I hated when corporate sent me hacks, and usually found a quick way to fire/transfer them. When you get a really good one, you become very dependent on him.

[@adamjones2025]

Who ever caused the wiring loom problem needs to stay away from vehicles.

[@wdsracer]

It would be interesting to hear the whole story from the vehicle owner. I wonder what happened at the dealer when he took it there.

[@MAGWolf]

That would probably be anyone GM Dealership hires fresh out of upsell school. I mean ASE training :P

[@adamjones2025]

@@wdsracer feel sorry for the person who owns it

[@adamjones2025]

@@MAGWolf LOL nice one

[@wdsracer]

Adam Jones me too. I personally would get rid of it. The corrosion already present and the wet wiring within the harness wrap seems like this truck will be plagued with problems in the future. Who knows how long the harness was open allowing water to get into it.

[@stevewaclo167]

“We saw the light and it was good.” 😀😀😀 You crack me up!

[@327JohnnySS]

Good job Eric O, the Wire Whisperer.

[@bigragu6828]

Patriotic Porn It actually gave me chills when he said “cmon, talk to me” and he found it.

[@jong8024]

I've found that using a pair of sewing seam rippers work great for cutting electrical tape without getting into the wires

[@buffystclair9042]

Poor boys race truck that’s what’s in my tool box

[@LadyAnuB]

Depending on the thickness you are going through, trauma sheers for the bigger looms with seam rippers for the smaller ones. Both are meant to do the same thing, cut through without cutting things inside.

[@jimzivny1554]

30 minutes to get it running, 3 hours to fix everyone else's crap! Charge accordingly

[@kinglangren]

It’s pretty bad when you good mechanics give us hacks a bad rap lol

[@adrianhughes5693]

have you considered giving the hacks up for a job say at Dorman ? should fit right in with that hack talent of yours lol

[@roadkill5333]

HEY!! Speak for yourself!! I put a lot of time and energy into making a bad name for myself, and ruining my future business, just to make a nickel!! It takes talent to strip out every oil pan bolt, and cross thread every oil filter you touch! I can't tell you how many gallons of acid I've gone thru, injecting into crucial wires, in the wiring harness!! I even have an antique fuse display out back, that I can put old worn out fuses into cars, just hoping that I'll get the business fixing a blown fuse!! I use a special electrical coating on my parking lot, to help run batteries down faster, so that I can charge for a new battery, and electrical diagnostic fee, even tho I never do one, because I know what drained the battery!! Lol You folks think that it's easy being sleazy!! I think that I have to put extra effort into it! It don't just happen by itself!! Sincerely, Honest Abe's car repair!!

[@tom7601]

Reminds me of, "99% of the lawyers out there are giving the other 1% a bad name!"

[@js4187]

@@tom7601 1%? ha

[@Moon___man]

@@roadkill5333 acid is expensive man, just fill a pressure washer with salt water

[@mattland4510]

Watching a good KZbin while drink my coffee and wake up

[@RealWorldGarage]

Matt Land and some of us are on our 3 am lunch break 😂 have a great day, hope the coffee is strong and your Friday work day is short!!!

[@jhitt79]

6am here. I just got home from work and I have a SMA video to watch while I fall asleep.

[@neillleblanc4039]

Same

[@jonathanmacleith7810]

Same here, 545 in Cali, waking up with SMA!

[@maxwell6504]

ok, thanks for sharing.

[@allwheeldrivespin6415]

New subscriber, great videos, very professional. No tedious intros, no lame background “music” just a professional doing professional work. Extremely informative and helpful! Thank you sir for your time and effort. Greatly appreciated

[@billsmith2212]

I wonder if you see a hack job if it pays to take pictures BEFORE you touch anything and give them to the customer AND save them in a file . If it was my vehicle , I would send them to the service manager , owner of the dealership AND the CEO of GM . You can always stand on the public sidewalk at the dealership and hand out copies to potential customers . Just think of ALL the future problems this would cause if not fixed . I wouldn't let these sleaze fix a lawnmower . Great job Eric .

[@lgregg2478]

This was the second time I watched this video, couldn’t remember what the outcome was, I still enjoyed it. You may think it’s a simple wiring repair but, as I read the comments there is a real desire of doing the job right among the youtubers that follow you’re channel. Nice follow up, remind everyone finish what you start.

[@tedmattingly7564]

A 1 year old truck with a molested wiring harness in New York, might as well total it now. That's a complete shame and someone needs beat severely.

[@capnskiddies]

At the very least spend a bit and replace that harness. Too many holes & questions.

[@brad8665]

King Zak yup. Gm junk.

[@greengolftee87]

@King Zak Every car in NY has under rust after a year. Same here in MI.

[@LostBeetle]

@King Zak Ohio here. I see rotted out GM trucks all the time. Judging by the amount of rust after one year on this truck, they haven't fixed the rust issue. They rust out like Nissan. I would stay away from them.

[@wpgngaming-videos888]

I was expecting you to say "Tell me where the bad man touched you" xD

[@roadkill5333]

Trumps fault!

[@Reaglesracing44_]

roadkill5333 Trump is the best damn president we have had! a lot better then Any Clinton or “Birdie” Sanders ! #Trump20/20

[@kman-mi7su]

@@roadkill5333 Yes, and it could very well be a front-page story on the NY Times on Monday!

[@02GrandAmGT1989]

ORANGE MAN BAD! lol

[@roadkill5333]

You can't say orange, it's "fake suntanned American"! Lol

[@wyattoneable]

Cory at S&A auto channel did a similar video where he was frustrated at the lack of workmanship from other shops. Joe over at Joe's auto Electric channel tells a story of the same frustrations. Until I watched KZbin and came across great shops such as yours, I thought every shop did just enough to get by. I became frustrated at the poor work ethics and poor quality diagnostics and just decided to get educated. Jason is correct in his assessment of your abilities. It may be luck but when luck repeats itself over and over again, it becomes pure magic.

[@SmittySmithsonite]

Me too, Wyatt. I figured it was just a MA thing ... but I guess not! It's a Nationwide problem. Thank God for KZbin creators shining light on this issue.

[@wimschoenmakers5463]

Great job! 👍 There must be a line up of a mile of customers at your shop !! 🤣

[@johno9163]

I learned so much watching these videos..primarily I learned that I am not working on my vehicles anymore. It takes a true technician . And Eric is a master technician that makes it look easy which shows how qualified he is. A good tech always makes the job look far easier than it is in reality. No substitute for experience and knowledge. I always said that to know why it does not work, you have to know how it is supposed to work. Great videos and glad I found your channel!

[@kevinp1904]

Being so new I would say replace the harness. No telling how many other spots might have been touched.

[@MrBchott]

Or take it apart and run through it.. Then retape it.. Just like building a race car.. Those harness can be pretty expensive

[@frazerguest2864]

If it were my vehicle, I'd now be really concerned with how many other problems there are waiting to cause trouble. I think I'd be wanting that truck to be looked over with a fine toothcomb. The thing is, who pays for it ?

[@MrBchott]

@@frazerguest2864 its just weird that the wires in the harness is wet and corroded.. I would not put it back like that.. Don't trust them Trucks (nervously smiling)

[@frazerguest2864]

bchott truth : I agree mate.

[@mohammedelsayed2889]

It would be nice to replace it if GM didn’t have 500 different variations of that harness and the one that you need is always weeks away on back order.

[@eliduttman315]

Eric, Don't be a hack is good advice for people in every line of work. Do it right or don't even start.

[@luke8210]

Thanks, Now I can show this video to family members who ask why I do all the work to my vehicles; Even those under factory warranty. Great job fixing that mess.

[@beenbadChad]

44 dislikes was the crew that bombed the job originally.😄

[@esemiklo5833]

🤣🤣🤣👍

[@esemiklo5833]

They sent the one who did it to check youtube and find out how it got fixed lol

[@clinedinstconsultingllc4552]

How do you dislike a video by Eric when he fixed the mistake of others? Probably the first one was the guy who messed it up and all of his shade tree mechanic friends followed his "lead". See what I did there? 😁

[@kalijasin]

@Chad Keith, 95.

[@clinedinstconsultingllc4552]

@@kalijasin Wow! I know I won't visit the 95 mechanics who disliked the video. 🤦‍♂️

[@johnjohannemann1220]

Yet again, you perfectly demonstrate the difference between desire and aptitude. Good job!

[@crisprtalk6963]

Eric, welcome to the world of being car mechanics customer! Before I started repairing my own vehicles I would be treated like crap by shops including dealers , overcharged, work would be VERY poor and on and on. One time I had a shop who couldn't even put a valve cover on correctly! Oil leaked everywhere. One of the reasons why your channel has become so popular is because you ARE The mechanic that tons of people have been looking for for years!

[@cliffoo7a]

Eric has to be the most respected mechanic in the world.He's honest He's damn good and he fixes it right the first time.

[@firstlast5630]

if you took it to a bunch of different shops and had problems with all of them you're probably the issue.

[@socialghost4400]

This exactly why I do the work on my car myself......so many times have I seen stuff like this after getting my or a friends car back from a mechanic

[@stevenrice47]

The big difference between Eric O and most mechanics is the simple fact that Eric RTFM before he does anything. That is so important yet so many people don't do. When I worked at a dealership, my dad beat it in my head to always RTFM, which I still do today whenever I work something new. Doesn't matter what it is, I always RTFM. My dad, the guy next to us, and I were the only ones reading the factory service manuals. Everyone else just winged it. It is scary to think about. Thus I don't trust dealership anymore than a shady tree hack, and do all the work myself because at least I know I RTFM before I started the job.

[@shadowdog500]

Steven Rice +1! The factory service manual is the only way to go!

[@jeffryblackmon4846]

You, Eric, have earned your DMVES- Doctor of Motor Vehicle Electrical Systems degree.

[@stevemoore7274]

Eric your trouble shooting skills are spot on. This is the one thing that cannot be taught in automotive trade schools. Your channel is the best thing since sliced bread. You demonstrate how people should perform at their job and the proper way to respect others. Common sense just drips off of ya! You are the “car whisper.” Keep your show going. Steve M.

[@williamnewman8850]

Thanks for the advise. Can’t trust anyone any more to do the right thing. Great to see people like yourself still exist.

[@chrisparenti2461]

Pretty sad these hack mechanics, gives the rest of us a bad name

[@lshale7306]

Whomever did the hack job may have given the entire shop/dealership a bad reputation. All it takes in one underperforming technician and the customer tells the world that place is no good.

[@jomangeee9180]

The defend a mechanic brigade is out in full force today. All car owners know that for every good mechanic, there are 10 clueless ones, not to mention the unscrupulous shop owners who think that each car owner is responsible for paying for ALL his bills, debts, shop supplies, child support etc.

[@bostedtap8399]

Technicians, rather than a vehicle mechanic, technicians think they are working inside a PC, where lovely clean dry, maybe a little dusty air is the harsh environment.

[@BlueBomberTurbo]

The worst part is, they're probably getting paid as much as honest mechanics who do a good job.

[@jomangeee9180]

@@BlueBomberTurbo probably more, because they are full of shit

[@klwthe3rd]

These videos make me proud to be an SMA subscriber. A quality job seems to be such a rarity anymore when dealing with automotive repairs. Great video.

[@defendermender4959]

God bless these kids and their KZbin "i bought this 1 year old car from a Copart auction and fixed it myself saving thousands"

[@zachtaylor1288]

Dealer: I've tried nothing and I'm all out of idea's!

[@fordnut4914]

Lmao

[@paulsmith5611]

The dealer probably saw the damaged wires and loose module and didn't want to warranty it (and they shouldn't) and still wanted to charge a fortune to fix it and that's why it ended up at SMA shop.

[@tech99070]

@@paulsmith5611 yep more to the story. with visible rusting and crusting in weird places for a 1 year old truck, even eric kinda floated the idea that this truck has been in serious water. i think he got turned down for warranty work and the 2nd shop did the hack job.

[@daleburrell6273]

9:47...tape residue(?)

[@bobburd6497]

I'm hooked, between you and your wife, I'm fully entertained. Nice to see a great mechanic at work.

[@specgrade3275]

You are the Wire Whisperer! Great job as always. You restore so much faith in the profession.

[@jhuntosgarage]

Seems to me this is indicative of a flood car scenario. All the green goo. Nice work my man!

[@NoName-zn1sb]

That would be a very likely scenario!

[@ionracer24]

Exactly!!

[@tomast9034]

or that truck just did what it was meant for ...balls deep in mud :D

[@layyouin6860]

What kind of mudder buys a brand new truck? Old Ford's are still kickin for a reason!

[@TheWoodman064]

Eric, I was raised in a family of mechanics and to me, you are amazing!

[@tchads_57]

Have integrity, take pride in your work and be honest. 3 things my father and grandfather taught me. You summed it up in “Don’t be a dirtbag.” 👍👍

[@idahofabricator8710]

It is so frustrating fixing other peoples mistakes, you’re absolutely right treat it like it was your own, customers will be happy and you’ll know that was done right👍

[@mshine5]

For the sake of learning, I would like to see your process of fixing the wire and harness.

[@kittyhawk9707]

just twist the wires together.. bit of sellotape / a plaster over them .. then you are good to go .... :)

[@daleburrell6273]

...I WOULDN'T EVEN TRY TO FIX A WET HARNESS LIKE THAT- I'D TEAR IT OUT AND REPLACE IT!!! AN AWFUL LOT OF PLASTICS ABSORB MOISTURE- AND YOU'RE IN FOR NOTHING BUT GRIEF WITH A WET WIRING HARNESS- AND THAT'S GOES FOR DAM SURE- IF IT WAS SALT WATER!!!

[@jessiepooch]

Don't be silly now.

[@daleburrell6273]

@@jessiepooch...WHO ARE YOU REFERRING TO?!

[@fpscanada3862]

@@daleburrell6273 why are you typing in all caps? it doesn't make what you are saying more true or something..

[@StevelsCamping]

I've come across hack's with my vehicle. I stay away from dealerships now at all cost and do most of the work myself if possible.

[@ScienceOfDiagnostics]

😖 There is no excuse for this and it makes our jobs much harder than it needs to be to go back and re-evaluate everything that has been touched instead of focusing on the problem. I'm a firm believer in factory level or better repairs no matter where the vehicle is being worked on. Thankfully there are shops and techs who still have pride in their work.

[@ryandavis930]

Agreed we try very hard not to take in problems from other shops, especially if the customer knew us before said problem. Nobody wants to pay me to fix manmade problems

[@brianburns7211]

I saw an interview where Eric says that he wanted only a one man shop. This was so that he could guarantee quality workmanship personally. That ship has sailed. The quality repairs have lead to too much work for one guy. Now it is three. Josh has been groomed to work the same way, with his long tenure at SMA,. Now I’m sure Jay was hand chosen for his reputation. Marie is starting to get the religion on how to do things right. She’s in the early stages of being able to diagnose herself. Quality of work has built a great reputation and a growing company.

[@beckywatt5048]

Science Of Diagnostics Not very many.

[@CubasAutomotive]

@Sam S many times because the customer doesn't want to pay to fix the botched job, then figure out the original problem. Been there... have turned away ppl for the same. If customers are willing to pay, that's a different story.

[@CubasAutomotive]

@Sam S personally, I don't need the biz. I have too much. I can't afford to work for free correcting mistakes, using materials... then go about fixing it correctly. Either go back to the previous shop, demand a quality job... or pay to have it done correctly. Life lessons, I suppose. I've learned myself.... I know to not even trust my local dealer for even the smallest of tasks (trying to save time on a vehicle, as I was working on the engine, but it also needed wheel bearings pressed in). They completely butchered both spindles deforming them. So now I'm out the time, money, and paying out of pocket for parts.

[@1973miniclubman]

What he says from 15:45 onwards 👌🏻 always treat it as if it your own. Exactly the same as I treat any brickwork/flintwork I do. Always take pride in your work. No matter where it is and who it’s for.

[@Ryan_Duncan1]

Hi Eric, I have to say that I didn't realize how lucky I've been to work with cars here the Pacific Northwest. It seems like NY just dissolves vehicles so rapidly. My 34 year old 4Runner still has zero rust. I've been addicted to your videos, and absolutely love the electrical diagnosis videos. Great honest work. My hat is off to you.

[@GeneralRELee]

South Main Auto "other shop can't, our shop can"

[@pookatim]

From my own personal experience, it is highly likely that this damage was done at the dealership. I think you should have plugged in the old module. Probably still good.

[@gregdykes5918]

I'm thinking that dealer found the hacking of the harness and would not look at it under warranty and that's why it was at an indy shop. Not saying a dealer wouldn't do that, lots of shady\shitty techs at the dealership.

[@ABCD-eg5ky]

@@gregdykes5918 that's exactly what I was thinking. Owner probably making mods to their nice new truck.

[@autotech2143]

Being a former tech that has worked at a few different dealerships, I find it hard to believe the issue was created at a dealer. I'm sure there are bad techs at dealers but it is not common, at least not from where I'm from. I listed a couple different reasons this may have happened, but we have no way of knowing. Just grouping all techs at dealerships as being bad is a real insult. I don't know your personal reasons why you think that. I know where I've worked we try to get repairs covered under warranty. Most places know that if you treat the customer right during the warranty period, they are most likely to return after the warranty is over. I can list several repairs I've made that really shouldn't have been covered. Some people get mad at the dealer cause they think a repair should be covered but it isn't. Like if a mouse chewed the wiring or thinking brakes, and other items, are covered after 12k miles. Then the customer gets upset and says they were treated bad and the techs are shity. From that point on they think all dealers are rip offs.

[@ichoozjc]

@@autotech2143 Yup. There are just as many bad customers as there are bad techs. Probably more.

[@autotech2143]

@@ichoozjc sometimes you have to fix the customer. I had one guy bring his truck in for a rattle noise while driving. Couldn't duplicate the concern. I think he had brought it in 2 or 3 other times, had other work done too, before I got it. I couldn't get it to happen either. We've had him ride with us before and he wouldn't hear it either. I had him drive and I was passenger. The noise was there. Did some in depth diag. Found it was from a tassel he had on his boots. We both laughed a little and you could see he was a little embarrassed. Yet he never got upset with us even when bringing it in multiple times.

[@assessor1276]

Good one! QUESTION:on such a new truck and given the amount of damage to the harness, would you not recommend installing a new harness? Otherwise, that thing will be a PITA forever.

[@Thorgious]

I really do love seeing mechanics with a true passion for what they do! Seeing a poor truck, that's been abused and hacked up frustrates the heck out of me, getting it running again is a passion. Good seeing someone else with that same love for a vehicle

[@Wisdom4G]

Would just like to say, ive watched countless videos of yours and Eric, I must say you are the man! A great guy, mechanic, husband and father! And that's why I keep watching the vids, very knowledgeable guy. Oh and me and your daughter share the same name! My is just spelled with an "e" instead of an "I". Take care and stay blessed!

[@mrred123]

I have OCD and i might take slightly longer then most but the work gets done right the 1st time. Clean and stock--- 20 year tech😉

[@andylucas8262]

I suffer from CDO, it's like OCD but in alphabetical order, as it should be.

[@spaceinvadertoo]

@@andylucas8262 I see what you did there.

[@alasdairhamilton1574]

Dealership should supply new wiring harnesses for other shop to install, don’t trust the dealership!!!👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@adamjones2025]

Yeah in Australia they are shocking too. Take your money (sale), service your vehicle with them and they will always find issues with your vehicle so you keep on spending money!! I would not let them service a lawnmower

[@bodydraggersautoclub]

And that’s why most folks call them “Stealership”

[@groosbro1]

@@bodydraggersautoclub I once had a dealer charge me for a repair that was supposed to be done under a recall. Boy were they pissed when I came back a week later with the recall notice letter that the dealer had known about for months! Full refund and an apology letter from manufacturer and dealer. Yes, I took it up to the manufacturer...

[@Garth2011]

I would get GM involved and suggest they do just that, replace that beautiful main harness that was wrongly abused by one of their dealerships. This video would be good evidence to make the allegations.

[@Snadzies]

It was likely the owner who did this trying to install some aftermarket crap and messed things up. Dealership took one look at the butchered harness and rightfully told him to fuck off.

[@zx8401ztv]

The problem is getting all of the truth, almost impossible. The Who What When Where and Why would have been usefull.

[@DaveSender66]

That is correct!!!! Trying to find out who fixed what and why is the essence of field service work! And you are absolutely correct a person that did that work will never admit to it.

[@Witheredgoogie]

I wonder if it was sabotage on a nearly new truck like that..you know somebody with a grievance with the dealer got under there with some snippers or something. Trouble is, it don't hurt the dealer he just passes it on.

[@jamesmoore3346]

I worked as a hydraulics technican for a company servicing the offshore oil&gas industry. Can't begin to count how many times I heard, 'I didn't do it, must of been the other crew', or The night crew did it'. Nobody ever owns up to being the guilty party...lol

[@davidwharton466]

“Talk to me Goose” it’s really a crying shame that either younger or less experienced mechanic’s don’t clean up properly after testing? With hard winters and weather bare wires don’t take much to rot out. That you Eric for being a VERY STAND UP EXCELLENT MECHANIC! Love ALL your content!!💪😎💪

[@concernedcitizen1395]

you amaze me by showing that some problems are just basic look , find ,and fix

[@shredders3881]

Took my Subaru to the dealer for the scheduled changing of the main belt. They charged a ton, and didn't even change the tensioners, which quickly started squealing. I had to pay an independent mechanic to do it right. It seems Subaru wanted me to break down so they could make more money. What a dirty operation.

[@Tedybear315]

Sad reality: The other shop likely will still charge for the module even though it's not needed. Now that's what gives mechanics and techs a bad name.

[@EL-gu1oy]

They really do, We had a young dude at the shop who didn't know shit when he first started, he worked at our shop for a year and started to demand a raise but he had constant comebacks on almost anything he touched so he never got the raise he quit and got a job at a local bmw dealer and fucked up a bunch of shit till he was fired. He now sells insurance for a living thank god (He got the job at our shop because his dad was friends with the owner)

[@Drhumbolt]

@@EL-gu1oy lol

[@adamUDavies]

@@EL-gu1oy I have seen people that have no idea what they are doing getting jobs that they don't deserve and guys that know what they are doing getting let go. And being told , "well you can get a job anywhere because you know what you are doing , but he needs this job " ?? I worked in Union Construction and it is happening all the time , in the last 15 years it's been out of control.

[@EL-gu1oy]

@@adamUDavies yea it sucks

[@layyouin6860]

adam0U812 Davies Brother... Censor bad words like 'union' from the kids please.

[@ruderickpabon7852]

Ur the Man ive learned so much from you. Keep it up💪🏻

[@porkchop4604]

It is amazing to see how inadequate a dealer can be to address serious trouble shooting issues. You prove time and time again when the mechanic is front and center with the customer, he is bought in with his personal reputation. We need more Eric Os in the world.

[@jjsamson6294]

Eric, You are an awesome technician, you have a great way of diagnosing and explaining. Awesome videos! Thank you!

[@RayRay-ov7uw]

I hope the flat-rate hack that butchered that harness ends up watching your video.

[@brad8665]

Ray Ray coming from a flat rate tech. We are not all hacks

[@thehvachacker]

Ray Ray even a hack like me puts the wires back in the harness. Or just run a new wire. Plus I'm laying on the ground not standing under the car with it on a lift. whoever did it was lost and not sure what he was working on

[@craigtate5930]

Good grief! A computer for the fuel pump now! WTF!!

[@Gizmo42Rodeo]

My '06 Volvo has that. It was mounted under the vehicle and they had a problem with the housing leaking wiping out the computer board. They did a recall and mounted them inside.

[@craigtate5930]

@@idonotconsent I tend to avoid machines built after 2002ish..I have an 83 f250, an 88 c1500, 2002 f250. Not aware of that on the 2002...and plan to sell it anyeay and still with the older trucks...I hate what they are doing with modern vehicles, want no part of it

[@wetlettuce4768]

My Volvo has a computer in the rearview mirror, I was going to replace it becuase the auto dimming has gone funky on it until I seen there's a computer to deal with.....

[@coltonjacobs5383]

Craig Tate is your 2002 F250 the one with the 7.3? How has your experience been with it and how many miles?

[@jonathanevans3007]

Having modules for multiple systems of the car allows for programming updates in the future to correct or change issues that arise with the vehicle

[@mattland4510]

It's 4:11in the morning think for the upload 👍 👍

[@468bbccapri]

Clear methodical logical diagnosis routine. Not many techs can do this because they get lost. Kudos for your ability the follow the method.

[@TheFatman1918]

Master Mechanic like you who take pride in there craft ! always finding what , the so call pros give up on . your the Best I wish their were more like your self. you are a blessing

[@caveman95987]

It's a shame but I definitely see it all too often. Some guys at the dealership take real pride in their work and some could care less.

[@debtminer4976]

That's any field really. . Auto just gets a bad rap, cause it's something so expensive, and ''value engineering'' has everyone seeing these expenses a bit too often, given our technological prowess today. Basically increases the odds of someone's vehicle meeting a hack.

[@ShaamoneHeeHee]

Well done Eric, you have some special jedi powers for finding those electrical faults 😂. Seriously though you seem to have a calm logical think process for that type of work. Wonder how all that moisture got into the harness, do you think it could be the wires sweating with all that tape tightly wound around them. Great video again though, it's always a pleasure to watch your content.

[@ShaamoneHeeHee]

@@gordbaker896 that's good information, thank you. I'm not a car guy but this Eric's videos are strangely compelling. I find his fault diagnosis process fascinating.

[@bigdogpete43]

If someone hacked up a $50K vehicle of mine like that, I would be suing someone.

[@crisprtalk6963]

Eric's video could be exhibit A to prove damage.

[@jomangeee9180]

good luck, you be spending another 50k to get 500 bucks

[@bigdogpete43]

@@jomangeee9180 attorneys fees and court costs are tacked on to settlements generally.

[@wkdravenna]

@@bigdogpete43 just make sure they got the money to actually sue

[@oldbatwit5102]

Yeah, sue someone, that's the answer and solution to everything.

[@jameshampton3969]

I very much enjoy watching your videos. You are a great diagnostician with the ability and scruples to logically find the problem, fix it, and repair or note any problems you find along the way, including anything you introduced in testing along the way. You seem to be like me, in that a vehicle "talks" to me. That is why you are able to pinpoint a problem. It's not just luck or experience; it's because the vehicle "tells" you where to go. Kudos to you and I hope you continue to produce such quality and informative videos. 👍

[@erikeggenbakstad]

Take pride in the work you do and you have put in at the end of the day. Thanks for the upload 😊👍