Is It Ok To Guess And Not Test!?

[@SouthMainAuto]

I just want to make sure I am clear when I say that as a general rule I DO NOT condone "guessing," if you will. There are rare instances when there is an intermittent problem in front of me that I can not duplicate I may elect to use an educated guess providing it is cost effective and most importantly understood by the customer as nothing more than an educated guess. Was I clear in the video and is there any questions when I think it may be appropriate or inappropriate for that matter? -Eric O.

[@davyarthurs]

You were very clear - I guess 😂

[@markcrouthamel3198]

Comes under "sometimes it better to be lucky than good".

[@RJJ6129]

Crystal clear!

[@CrazyRFGuy]

Eh. Im fine with this type of guess, based off of experience. I do the same for clients when their computer is malfunctioning in some way. Its better for both of us when I do. Its easy to spend hours and hours on a computer problem. Its not feasible to bill $700+ for shop time on a computer that is more than a few years old and barely cost them that when new.

[@DDrew67]

I call it "green crusties" all the time(before opening the hood)...90% right(yes I live in salt country)

[@darkerbinding6933]

It is ok to "take a guess" when your guess is educated and not just blind guessing. You never blind guess.

[@defresurrection]

Going back a long time ago and I'm not google driven... isn't a hypothesis an 'educated guess'?

[@erich6860]

Parts cannons truly suck.

[@darkerbinding6933]

@@defresurrection Actually no. A hypothesis is an assumption, an idea that is proposed for the sake of argument so that it can be tested to see if it might be true. The hypothesis may have some grounding in fact but that's not part of what defines a hypothesis.

[@defresurrection]

@darkerbinding6933 thanks for the clarification, it's been a while. For some reason it stuck with me. Edit: You made me google, lol. There is support for my memory and your reply. Go figure.

[@darkerbinding6933]

@@defresurrection Its why reasonable dialog is always good. have a great day.

[@davidwright1653]

Spock : [to Dr. McCoy] I don't think he understands. McCoy : No, Spock. He means that he feels safer about your guesses than most other people's facts. - From Star Trek IV The Voyage Home. Exactly how I feel about Eric O's guesses because it's called experience.

[@michaelskinner896]

I think most of us who watch this channel know that you don't normally just guess and throw parts. However, the benefit of your experience is what makes this an option, particularly if you've been transparent with the customer.

[@bobhudson6659]

I second that. You're a good operator. Anyone thinking of criticizing you needs to watch any of a multitude of your previous videos to verify your diagnostic skills, skills that many, many others don't have. You have also taught me heaps. Retired 72 yr old mechanic/machinist in Land Down Under.

[@philmerrifield1163]

​@@bobhudson6659thirded

[@JoseJimeniz]

Plus we've all seen the, "We've confirmed it, it really is the speed sensor. Fortunately I already went ahead and ordered the speed sensor, because of course it was the speed sensor."

[@65bugnut]

My teacher in auto shop used to call it the SWAG method, Scientific Wild Ass Guess.

[@drunkingsailor2359]

Gotta remember this one lol

[@robertheinkel6225]

In the military, we used EWAG. Educated wild ass guess.

[@scientist100]

The problem is when it becomes the norm. You could mistake not having the right tools to do proper diag with not worth my time to chase this and take a guess.

[@ADE2366]

SWAG, love it, I’m stealing that 😊😉🤭🤭👍🏼

[@greebo7857]

That young man is going to learn a lot.... The right way.

[@williamlocascio8946]

Who is he? Evidently I missed the introductory video.

[@quicksilver8180]

"i don't want to translate it all, it says genuine Gm on it". That explains why i watch you right there.

[@oldjesus8978]

On the original Star Trek, the captain's nickname for Dr. McCoy was "Bones". Hope that clears it up for you ! 😂😂

[@demonknight7965]

Old nick name for a doctor is a Sawbones

[@anonimity5548]

In The Doomsday Machine episode, Dr McCoy says "I'm a Doctor, not a mechanic!"

[@edrico1]

We didn’t have 400 channels of satellite TV back in the 60’s, so no, you don’t have to be a nerd to have watched Star Trek back in the day.

[@JeffWok]

McCoy's wife took everything but his bones when she left, according to him. Thus Bones. Now somebody more into it than me will correct me 🤣🤣

[@arlo4051]

Needs one more intern named Scotty, then we can hear " she can't take much more of this Captain!".

[@artnoll]

You're a goddamn hero my man. Wish more mechanics were as conscientious about making a repair to outlast the car

[@BobSakamoto]

Somebody beat me to it, but the key is "educated guess" and not just 'guess'. It's what separates a great tech from a parts changer. Knowing how the part is supposed to operate and what's involved in it doing its job, past experience, etc are critical. And of course, you being who you are, the other part which is just as important is being crystal clear with the customer about the process.

[@DIYDaveOK]

There's a monumental difference between a parts-cannon, shotgun guess and a professional experience *educated* guess. Heck, if anything, the exception proves the rule. Awesome job as always, Eric.

[@richardwallinger1683]

79 year old mechanic still learning . Love the small socket wrapped in insulation tape for winding around in tight spaces . you are not guilty of shortcutting .. you ARE guilty of calling in the years of experience you have amassed .Priceless.

[@danielesilvaggi]

I am a factory trained person and you are a field trained professional and I would take your best guess anytime over a lot of so called dealer trained persons any day Eric. Thank you for sharing all of your talents.

[@rogergoins8118]

Wish the world had more honest mechanics like you. Good to see Mrs O back

[@rolandthethompsongunner64]

An honest mechanic would of told this customer to get rid of this pos asap. Buick Encores or one of the biggest rolling catastrophic failures you could possibly own 😂

[@meporter69]

I guess you could tell most customers that walk though your door the same thing. Most of todays cars are over-engineered junk. Probably will not have any customers soon.

[@Hurtydwarf]

@@rolandthethompsongunner64 An honest mechanic always helps the customer with proper diagnosis, repairs and information. Most people cant afford to just throw away a car and get a new one because the mechanic says its bad. Saying "get rid of the car and get a new one" is not an honest or good mechanic.

[@Fonda-d3x]

What!!!!! Eric pushes the button on the parts cannon?!?!?!? I'm telling Ivan at Pine Hollow!!!

[@richardcranium5839]

no farts required but i dont think eric gives two schlitzif you do tell lol

[@lvsqcsl]

I'm telling Paul "Scanner" Danner!!!

[@DaveBigDawg]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@jimr549]

Ivan would have cleaned the connector and sent it on it's way then changed the sensor and connector when it came back.

[@TheBrookian]

Scottie already told them.

[@roberttaylor3157]

I hope McCoy is keeping a notebook with all of your educated guesses. You guesses are based upon years of experience. You just can't have enough experience. Great job guys.

[@blueseruser]

“I see, said the Blind man, to his Deaf Daughter”…..Love your videos, you have skills!

[@TJ1855]

Dear sir. You don't need to make light of your issues with your fingers anymore. We all have medical issues and we totally understand. Fortunately, a lot of people have that type of situation and I'm sure it's difficult situation but. No need to mention it. We understand. Love your channel and watch it forever. Been watching it forever. Take care sir

[@drewv1785]

Once again Eric, you're keeping it real! McCoy is getting some real world experience from the real doctor!

[@jesstreloar7706]

The Real Doctor? Is that another SciFi reference? Doctor Who? No, Doctor 'O'

[@CharlesGaines-g8y]

Give McCoy a SMA hoodie.

[@brucehobbs1734]

Poor McCoy being asked about “…his rubbers.”😂😂

[@nguyennt99]

He said he thinks his rubber still attached😂

[@neilmurphy845]

​​@@nguyennt99 That's funny 😂

[@neilmurphy845]

​@@nguyennt99I could barely hear what he said

[@porkchop4604]

Wait a second. Did i just see Eric, the best Diag mechanic in the USA take a GUESS at a repair???? Good lord above Eric you actually are human. Makes absolute sense in terms of time and dollars. Keep em coming

[@pootthatbak2578]

One of the reasons this channel is good..the editing out of dead time, seamlessly.

[@lvsqcsl]

I know years ago when I first started following you, Eric, your motto was, "test, don't guess." However, I've seen you from time to time not able to duplicate an issue the customer describes and if the parts aren't expensive you go ahead with your hypothesis. I would say all of your guesses are based on years of experience and likely you have seen symptoms before. GREAT VIDEO!

[@toddw.9845]

Experience gives you the ability to guess , I have been fixing cars for 30+ years and yes when its super intermittent . I will give the customer the option to replace the best guess or wait until it breaks . This is reality!

[@darenkilminster7692]

It's always great to see the beautiful smile of Mrs O

[@ChrisVargasrpht2000chris]

I have more confidence in your guesses' than I have in other people's opinions. Great job on the wheel speed senor.

[@darenkilminster7692]

Sometimes a guess is the best repair as you have shown. What great content on diagnosing

[@andrewg6238]

Eric, I love the new improved way you’ve shown us how to lose a 10mm socket!! I would drop that bad boy sooooo fast. Thank you, though seriously, we all enjoy your craft and I learn so much from you! McCoy is truly blessed to have you for his Yoda!!

[@TheodoreRoosevelt3]

Of course it's okay. Got me through 10 years of marriage.

[@Tengs27]

😂😂😂😂

[@garyalford9394]

How about 50+ !!

[@MrRunner]

I've been at it nearly 50 years. I was awash in stats etc. in Engineering School, but believe you me, It doesn't work with a spouse. They have no interest in Math, you are wrong and that's the end of the matter.

[@scrappy7571]

"honey, does this dress make my ankles look thin?" Me.. "I guess"

[@bobthrasher8226]

Sometimes, it's the only way.

[@donaldmickunas8552]

McCoy was a crusty ship’s doctor who cared very much about his patients. Being called McCoy is a compliment.

[@lqueryvg666]

LOL - "I didn't watch Star Wars" - made me LOL! STAR TREK!!!! Dammit Jim!!!! Hahaha.....He'll fit right in!!!!

[@wesleypulkka7447]

Eric, since you're parts cannon shy I wish you were in my hood to guess what's wrong with my car and pickup! An educated guess by you is worth way more than 3 hours with a scanner! Great video!

[@troy9616]

You’re an honest broker for the customer.

[@stevespra1]

I'm glad you made this video. This kind of educated guess on a less expensive and fairly easy to get to part is totally appropriate.

[@johnjohannemann1220]

Your educated guesstimate was based on years and years of experience. It’s something you learn how to do and trust when you spend many years in the dealership. No harm no foul. Again you were right on the money.

[@JohnDoan-iu7sm]

You’re freaking me out I’ve never seen you do that granted I haven’t been watching forever and you did have a pretty strong argument

[@todaysproject6788]

I think its funny that while trying to show a situation where a guess might work out better than the standard diagnostic process, you once again proved that the standard diagnostic process is the better direction. Even if it wasn't intended to work out that way. "Yeah we are just gonna wing a sensor into this thing and see if that fixes it - oh look, the connector is full of water and green crusties.." That said, you have a point where in cases where an issue is not repeatable or persistent and experience says "it is very likely this part which isn't very expensive - shall we give it a try and see?" an educated guess has a place. Thanks for the video!

[@JudahEyes]

Unbelievably awesome tips! I love the idea of wrapping electrical tape around a socket to get into small spaces. Also, I had no idea that the part of the crimper was for non-insulated connectors. Great info, as always!

[@KevinCovert]

It says that it's genuine GM... I love it! Eric your content is great!

[@swallowinn4410]

Hello Erick & Mrs O. Experience is a wonderful teacher. Customer satisfaction is primary in running a successful busisness. When both are used to improve the issue resolution the customer benefits. This case a very good example. Keep the interesting & informative videos coming. Good job.

[@dlaitch]

Years ago in Canada I took my 2000 Malibu to Midas Muffler who charged $100 to scan for the source of an ABS dash light. They told me 3 sensors were bad ! Internet research prior indicated most GM vehicles, and mine in particular, had sensors embedded in the wheel bearings so that would have been a costly repair. Research also showed that the problem point was usually the drivers side front ABS wiring harness ......not the sensor itself. I told Midas to replace the harness on that wheel and the ABS warning light then disappeared and I had no issues over the remaining 5 years I owned the car. Either the scan tech was dishonest or an idiot. I never went back there for any kind of work after this attempted ripoff. Honest people like you Eric are keepers ! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🔧

[@weshawkins7165]

When you’ve done the same job with the same problem over and over on multiple different cars and the same repairs fixes it then it’s not guessing, it’s experience. At 67 years old, 50 as a auto tech, I wish I could be that young man working with you. I hope he realizes how lucky he is to have you as a mentor.

[@richardluce775]

I owned a marine repair shop for years. A typical no spark issue was usually a failed power pac (brain box) capacitors cooked open. So I gave the customer the option of “my 25$ hunch” or the 100$ system analysis. 90% of the time it was a cooked pac.

[@rharris7635]

The "educated guess" from experience is completely different from the "wag" aka "wild assed guess" and is an important part of every "good" mechanic's tool kit. Well done video and explanation.

[@johnkranyics281]

When Eric fires the Parts Canton he's a sniper!👍👍🇨🇦

[@thatevotech21]

I try to do the same thing you were mentioning at the end of the video. Be up front with the customer and tell them that the issue cant be duplicated at the moment and I think that X could fix it but because I can't prove it I can't recommend it. I wish there were more people like this in the industry but unfortunately shops or even mobile "mechanics" are all too eager to just take the payday and continue about their day. I obviously do all my own work for that reason and bc im not going to pay somebody else labor to do my job but that kind of dishonesty is part of the reason I got into being a mechanic. Appreciate your video's and I watch all of them even the simple stuff like brake jobs and wheel bearings because I like what you do.

[@paulpierson2137]

I make sure and hit the "like" button once Mrs. O shows up. That hard working girl deserves some of the credit.

[@ralphwatten2426]

I don't have much as far as testing equipment so usually I start guessing and try to use what I have to test the theory.

[@johnwhite6005]

Glad to see Mrs.O and you have a great video.

[@waltershulas623]

Eric great video as always you are a honest and great mechanic that’s why I love this channel and I’ve been a viewer for a very long time since the beginning is that young man your son he will learn a lot from you

[@craigdreisbach5956]

Eric. Please don't be so apologetic. You are simply the best...hands down. Kind Regards. Craig. BTW so you have psoriatic arthritis and it affects your nails. No big deal

[@drover338]

I was happy to find out where the connection was!

[@hillbilly8391]

Dear Eric and Vanessa: A wonderful video, a true measure of mechanical genius. Thanks ever so much. Greetings from the warm Caribbean !

[@douglash3129]

Hi Eric, McCoy and the lovely Mrs.O., Anybody that watches your channel would trust your (Guess) over some others Diagnosis! You have a loyal following Eric ,forget a bout it!!!

[@stationaryenginesworldwide]

Knowledge made your guess. Nothing wrong with it. Don't apologize for it.I've watched this channel for years .you are truly knowledgeable it your testing and troubleshooting. Great video Eric as always the best from SMA!

[@mrdude2702]

Eric, car maintenance is always an " educated guess" but most of the time you feel much more confident after some testing that your guess is correct. Kind of like taking an open book test, just because you have the book in front of you doesn't mean you looked up the correct answer. IE: Car won't start and the battery tests at 9vdc and you determine at least one bad cell, your "guess" is you have a bad battery. But after replacing the batter the car still will not start, only to find the starter is weak. As a car owner I would feel much more confident that Eric is making his "best guess" than if I asked the 15 year old down the street what he thought about the issue. Great channel Eric. I've learned so much from watching your channel and the skills I've gained from that knowledge is not restricted to automobiles. They can be transferred to other life topics as well.

[@jgreitz]

And to add to your explainatIon, your customers are paying for your EXPERIENCE which allows you to take very educated "guesses", which in this case really isn't a guess. It is years of hand on experience combined with hard data in the form of the scan performed which lead you directly to the problem. Don't apologize for professionalism. You are a master knuckle buster!

[@glenharper3136]

Thanks for the video Eric, McCoy and the Lovely Mrs.O.

[@Shododaan]

Your years of experience makes this "guess" an educated guess. That is miles different than using a parts cannon after using an ODB2 scanner. As a guy about the same age as you I have a lot of respect for the application of your skillset. I'm in the IT industry but it works the same for me. Great video!

[@goptools]

Makes perfect sense. The DTC indicated a problem with the left front ABS. The most likely part to fail there is the sensor. Or if your customer wants, you can drive it around for 8 hours, charge 8 hours labor for that, find out without a doubt that it is the ABS sensor and then still pay for the sensor and the labor to install it. Diagnostic time isn't free.

[@PK15306]

"star wars, I don't know, star trek, one of the two". That's some hard trolling there Mr.O.😂

[@SouthMainAuto]

😉

[@mattmanyam]

Worth at least 25-50 comments!

[@thewrightstuff6174]

Glad to see a youngster learning for Eric..Congratulations Bones, You are learning from the master

[@JoseMartinez-tc9pr]

Informed decision-making comes from a long tradition of guessing and then blaming others for inadequate results. you the man, Eric..you the man

[@birdseyeview1543]

Your educated guess based on experience is invaluable, thanks for being awesome!

[@JoseSilveira-newhandleforYT]

An educated guess, like you did, is not what we generally call guesswork. Experience plays an important role in that decision.

[@agostinodibella9939]

Especially since the problem was intermittent, and your experience of seeing these sensors fail in the past, this was a perfect educated guess Eric. Good idea on covering the whole connection with tape to prevent this from happening again.

[@BlueRidgeJ79]

As a home meddler, I mean mechanic, I have enough knowledge to narrow it down pretty close, but I don't have a lot of knowledge when it comes to testing (or a decent scanner). That's why I appreciate you, SMA. Good teacher.

[@buddybarker8511]

McCoy is so lucky to be working with you

[@jatco84]

Makes sense too me... Just wish you were closer...! Good job Eric..Kudos

[@karencary3312]

You use intuition guided by past experience. Great job. ❤❤

[@MattTZew]

Thanks for teaching McCoy!

[@chrisclark6044]

As always, thank you for this video. Also, as many years as I've been in this industry, I see a teachable moment along with a training point.

[@chrisclark6044]

Also, no matter how much experience I may have. Every video I've watched has taught me something. Young Sir having you as a trainer and guide to this industry. He will make an amazing technician!

[@Thomas-ts2gl]

I don't have all the fancy scan tools.. so just about everything for me is an educated guess. 99% of the time throw a part at it and it's fixed. But if not sure.. I always watch your videos and start with the cheapest solution first.

[@robertgibbons361]

Agree 100%, and you still are the best.. Enjoy the videos, especially when you have Mrs. O in the script.

[@farmermiyagi1338]

I had a 2015 Lexus in here not long ago with a wheel speed sensor wire that was broken. The harness was built onto the sensor, otherwise it was just a plain old wheel speed sensor. It was just under $500 with shipping. Aftermarket. o.0 Needless to say, I took a hint from Ivan's book and soldered the wires on the old one.

[@frankdevone9668]

Great video. Not a guess, just common sense.

[@geojohnson5613]

I agree Eric. These intermittent issues are the worst. See my comment regarding my grand-daughter's 2017 Buick Encore. A steelership would never have found the cause, I'm sure. You always impress me with your ability to trace down electrical problems, and, your educated guess at times when required.

[@bradkline4023]

Eric, would we ever question your judgment? With your depth of experience, making a guess like this IS the correct action. Also shows you're putting your customer's best interest in mind as opposed to making another KZbin video using the full-blown diag route.

[@WillThat]

I had a similar situation where I just took a guess and threw a sensor at my VW. Christmas tree dash, no power steering, no cruise control, no traction control. All the modules were complaining about the ABS and the ABS module only had one DTC for the front right wheel speed being non plausible. New wheel speed sensor fixed the car.

[@AaronBelknap]

Scotty approved! Great job Eric O! I’d take your guess more than anyone else’s facts! Experience pays!

[@davegair1984]

Mrs O love the nails always good to see your smile

[@MonkeyDelicious]

Explanation very good. You saved the customer three times less money.

[@DriftingDragon74]

I have a tip I used to share among my fellow technicians is to order some Plasti-Dip spray and coat the connectors and seal them right up. It may not be better protection than liquid black tape but it's easily sprayed on and easier to peel off for repairs and you can get it in a variety of colors. I guess it would be similar to the newer Flex Seal spray they have nowadays that only comes in black or maybe white now too as some of their other stuff I know comes in white. Anyways, you can pick a color that blends well with your project or maybe even contrasts it to easily locate in the future. Really great for coating connections on trailers. Any time I'm wiring a trailer I automatically put in GM Weatherpacks at each tailight and coat them to prevent hassles in future lamp replacements.

[@JohnDoan-iu7sm]

Soak up as much as you can McCoy you gots good learnin there boy.

[@sabrekat7904]

There's a world of difference in approach between using experience and common sense instead of guesswork, hope and parts cannon. Depends if you are happy to give your customer a huge bill and probably never see them again for any other work.

[@goingjag]

I always luv me some mini tape roll video, been a very useful trick for me,

[@stevenaylor5163]

I learn more from this channel than any other I watch. TY!

[@UNEEK_LOGIK]

What a parts changer!.. 🤣 Paul would be proud We all do it Sometimes it’s the more logical approach given the symptom & how easy we can duplicate the customers concern

[@Stover1928]

Genius! That is why you could move forward down the path to a proper repair. Great video

[@jamesterrill1938]

Great video, it is nice to get luck on your side for a change..

[@lightcapmath2777]

U ROCK! SMA! Thanks for helping use. DVD:

[@TheJmich2001]

There's guessing and there's seasoned, experienced intuition, which you have passed along to us...and we thank you!!!! NJ. I trust all of you with my only child.

[@OcRefrig]

Good video ! Thier is a “ Huge difference “ between guessing and a Hypothesis ( Educated guess - using prior failures as reference etc. experience etc. ) It’s a Shame they don’t make a Small box thats weatherproof to put a connector in. ( hinged plastic box with wire holes on each end or same end depending on application. ) I’d prob use a weatherproof 2x4 box that we put electrical outlets in for backyards & put the connector in that or a Ziploc bag might work really good too. I’m just not a fan of electrical tape. I’m liking the ziplock bag idea the more I think of it. Fast & adds a good layer of protection. Hell u could even double bag it. Heck , Now , You Got me thinking you could use a Condom. Extra Large of course ! A Condom & 2 wire ties for the Win !!! lol. 😂 I crack myself up !!! 😂

[@woodturnermark8529]

No explanation needed, I would say that you have the right to make the educated guess, your experience, and sometimes just having a feeling of what the problem is ,will save you time and the customer money, at the end of the day you get it done with the tools of knowledge that you have obtained through years of experience with positive results.

[@ronaldbrosius7488]

Another amazing video by KZbin's Best Mechanic/Technician!! Thanks for sharing, great job as always!!

[@MickayG]

Yes... In my profession certain problems come across a lot more than others and usually it's the same fix... so an educated guess has a high chance of success and it's saves everybody time and/or money. In this case for example... that sensor costs maybe 50 bucks when an hour of your time diagnosing it will probably cost double that.

[@scrappy7571]

The secret of flate rate is, guess your best and charge 1 hour of diagnosis.

[@GunfighterWyo]

It is not a guess when backed up with years of experience. Great to See Mrs. O again. Great job.

[@mikemiller3565]

Nice place for the connector. Good thing it showed on service data.

[@whiskeyfamily6717]

We all need more shops like yours