Shop Wants $12,915 for Repairs! Can It Be Fixed for $1500?

A local mechanic shop identified almost $13,000 in other repairs. Also, I ran into a major engine problem when trying to repair this 2002 Honda CRV. A cracked block usually results in the total loss of the engine. Let’s try to save it!
I bought all of the parts and supplies used in this video and never accept sponsorships. So, thank you for supporting the channel!
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➡ Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order):
Foxwell Battery Tester: amzn.to/4dxxkZo
Powerbuilt Ball and U Joint Service Set, 23 Piece Tool Kit,
Brake Fluid Tester: amzn.to/3WgLZlf
Coolant Test Strips: amzn.to/3UyomTW
Dielectric Grease: amzn.to/49VL790
Impact Universal Joint: amzn.to/4famVDL
Vacuum Pump for Fluid Extractor: amzn.to/4baBvbw
¼ Inch Clear Tubing for Fluid Extractor: amzn.to/3Qm65Xv
Step Bit for Building Extractor: amzn.to/3UBuawf
Videography Equipment:
Canon EOS R6 Mark II: amzn.to/4aErF18
Canon 70D Camera: amzn.to/31b5Gy0
Azden Microphone: amzn.to/34d3DLE
Go Pro Bundle: amzn.to/3Ca0ZVN
This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results.

[@ProjectFarm]

I get a lot of questions regarding the tools or products that I use. Here's a list, but more details are available in the video description. Foxwell Battery Tester: amzn.to/4dxxkZo Powerbuilt Ball and U Joint Service Set, 23 Piece Tool Kit, Brake Fluid Tester: amzn.to/3WgLZlf Coolant Test Strips: amzn.to/3UyomTW Dielectric Grease: amzn.to/49VL790 Impact Universal Joint: amzn.to/4famVDL Vacuum Pump for Fluid Extractor: amzn.to/4baBvbw ¼ Inch Clear Tubing for Fluid Extractor: amzn.to/3Qm65Xv Step Bit for Building Extractor: amzn.to/3UBuawf

[@CJ-fh5xq]

Honestly working on a car and saving money is one of the best feelings ever.

[@ProjectFarm]

Absolutely right!

[@tigergreg8]

I totally agree with you, I tuned up my CRV and was thinking of how much they would charge to do what I just did within an hour. I know many people don't have the resources, or time, or area to do such things, but it's sad what people pay to do such easy jobs. I'm so glad I learned to do what I do in my youth.

[@vids595]

I am a contractor and it looks like I charge about the same hourly rate as the best shop in our town. So although I am a very capable auto mechanic and own a crazy amount of auto tools, I dont actually save any money if I spend my time doing my own auto repairs, rather than just doing my job, and paying the auto shop.

[@bixby9797]

I just replaced the tranny in my CRV right in the driveway with one from a salvage yard . HF transmission jack is cheap and worth the money. $300 for the used transmission vs $2,000 to rebuild it. One mornings work.

[@bixby9797]

Shop estimate on replacing the wife's clutch on a Fiat 500 was over $2,000. Watched a few video's online and ordered one for $100. Wish me luck.

[@joshuacrai]

Wait up, there’s a crack in the engine block so you got a 3d printer and made a fitting, grabbed a bolt just that right size, cut it down, used an angle grinder to make notches for the o rings, jb weld and it worked?! That’s a genius hillbilly repair if I’ve ever seen one. Incredible!

[@PageMarker1]

He saved the best for last.

[@APatchworkCanvas]

he’s a farmer!

[@daleolson3506]

You forgot lunch

[@jacobg6528]

lol... its unreal the people who believe this stuff is an actual fix

[@NerfCraft]

@@jacobg6528 It's definitely not an "actual fix", but are you going to put an engine in a 200K mile Honda CRV? If the repair works, even for a few thousand miles, it's still better off than having to either replace the whole engine, or get rid of the car entirely.

[@blh3741]

"Imagine all the tools you can buy with the money you save..." My wife was sitting next to me when you said this. She looked at me and I looked at her with a big grin. No need for spoken words! Thanks for the video.

[@ProjectFarm]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@stevek3786]

I’ve got my wife on this program. She still thinks I have an excessive amount of Milwaukee products, but they help me save money not paying for labor on car and house repairs.

[@BSGSV]

I would take that as a green light.

[@bobborlog1677]

Imagine all the new to you fresh women you can buy with ever buying a wife . Now that's savings and enjoyment I can get behind

[@DavidSprings]

@@stevek3786 Milwaukee products? Are we talking tools or beer?

[@bbaaspencer1]

7 years ago the Chrysler dealership told my daughter she needed $2,000 worth of repairs on her low mileage 2013 Chrysler 200 that was already out of warranty, while she was there getting an “oil change special.” That’s how they get you in the door! She never asked them to do any inspection and estimates and they took an additional hour doing it. I am an actual certified mechanic and went down the list and absolutely nothing was leaking, nor was anything worn out. She drove that car 100,000 more miles and all of those items on that bogus list were still good when she sold the car. Trying to take advantage of a 20 year old girl!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing.

[@quademasters249]

Friend of my wife used to get banged for $500 every oil change. Her car has low miles. I've gone over it numerous times. It's a cream puff. She barely drives it. . One time they told her she needed a new rack because the inner tie rod boot had a small hole. Nothing leaking out...just a hole. I tell her to say "she'll check with her boyfriend" then run the list by me.

[@dancahill8199]

You are a certified auto mechanic .... and your daughter took her car to a stealership for an oil change ? Sounds more than a little fishy to me ! !

[@theredscourge]

@@dancahill8199 Mechanics tend to develop back pain and other problems, and don't tend to want to be bothered to do every oil change for every family member. They will absolutely intervene when someone tries to rip them off though!

[@quademasters249]

@@dancahill8199 Plenty of people don't live near their kids... Mine lives 5 hours away. You're bashing this guy because he doesn't work on his grown kid's car?

[@The3chordwonder]

I've found the easiest way to remove a convertor is to park it outside. Helpful "mechanics" roam around performing this service for free all the time! To avoid impacting your ability to get to work the next day, many repairs are performed at night. As a bonus, you get a performance exhaust with zero backpressure!

[@ProjectFarm]

lol. So true!

[@bixby9797]

lol

[@wolverine89893]

O you just tell the tweaker next door can you take my busted cat to the metal dealer he would happily comply. 😂😂

[@buckieharrison7176]

😂

[@EF-69]

Yep, overnight in Cicero, IL, converter is gone. Of course so are the seats, tires, windows, stereo, jumper cables, and 1 door.

[@gravydog51]

Retired 40-year Honda tech here. A couple of tips on the ball joint replacement: when you steer, the rubber boots on the ball joint and the tie rod end move against the knuckle so I always liked to clean the surface and put a film of grease for the boot to slide on plus it might add a little water barrier. Also, rubber bushings that twist with suspension movement like the ones at the back of the lower control arms should have those bolts tightened while the car is at normal ride height with the wheels on the ground so that they are at their neutral position when the wheel isn't moving up or down from bumps, etc.

[@SuperNoticer]

Great tips 👌 👍

[@awakenedsystems]

Great bonus info, thanks. Unfortunately most shops aren't going to pay that level of attention to detail.

[@025MikeMiller]

Came to the comments to say the same about the control arm bushings.

[@thedlc7784]

@@025MikeMillerhaha same. I was suprised when I saw him torque it down with the suspension in the air

[@FusionBoost2.0]

​@@awakenedsystems most mechanics do actually. We always torque bolts at ride height because you'll change em soon if you don't

[@VIP-ry6vv]

Anyone can turn a wrench. The difference between a bad mechanic and good mechanic is in the diagnostic. Thank you for showing how a problem should be verified before firing the parts cannon.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you!

[@ACoustaDC]

Preach brother Preach!

[@MrTruckerf]

I don't know......there are other things that bad mechanics do besides wasting money on unneeded parts. Over-torquing bolts and snapping them, cross-fitting screws and bolts, etc.

[@IAmBlux]

@@MrTruckerf I needed the clutch changed on my car and just didn't have the time to do it. The amount of time I wasted calling friends and checking reviews to find a mechanic who actually uses and knew what a torque wrench was, I probably could have done the job myself.

[@VIP-ry6vv]

@@MrTruckerf yeah but diyers do those things too. First time I changed my oil at 16 I stripped the oil pan threads because I thought the bolt would just magically stop turning when it was tight enough

[@Eddie65001]

As a 06 crv owner myself this video is priceless. Mine has 228,000 miles and I’ve done half of the. Items listed in the video. And some not listed. Scheduled maintenance is key and your videos are top notch. The gold standard for DIY.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@Par_x3D]

I bought my 06 Odyssey in similar shape for $2k. I spent roughly ~$2k on power steering lines & pump, coolant flush, timing belt, axles, alternator etc. Starting it up for the first time and seeing all the warning lights gone was one of the best feelings ever, not to mention having saved $3-4k of labor! Two thumbs for promoting automotive DIY work!

[@saxonsoldier67]

Nice. Let's not forget the inflated shop parts costs.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for sharing.

[@norcal715]

I love these automotive repairs. So many people do not realize that the majority of repairs can be done at home with minimal tools. Thank you Todd!

[@ProjectFarm]

You're welcome!

[@DOC_951]

Many people realize that the majority of repairs cannot be done because we have zero tools and zero experience. I think that’s the part you’re ignoring

[@BruceLee-xn3nn]

​@@DOC_951nobody is born knowing how to do repairs. At least you have Internet info. It was all trial and error, books or asking old guys what to do when I started.

[@EricAnderson10]

I've used loaner tools from AutoZone and Advance Auto a few times for the specialty tools

[@MrAfdasdfa]

There is nothing "minimal" about this guys shop or toolkit in any way shape or form. Having a plethora of tools makes every job look easy.

[@AKJeeper]

This video serves as a great example for younger people to take auto shop class in high school. It was one of the best classes I took in school, it lead to a decent career as an auto/diesel tech. Those classes gave me the ability to save thousands of dollars in auto repairs, so even if I didn't choose that route for a career, it still had a positive effect on my life.

[@RioVoid]

Unfortunately that wasn't an option at my high school, really wish it was kept in the curriculum.

[@ViviSectia]

A lot of schools don't have auto shop classes anymore so it's not even an option. Luckily, there's youtube to teach you though it doesn't compare to actual hands on experience.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@Clear_Spectre]

They don’t give school auto shop anymore. It’s ridiculous. You go to auto trade school spend money on tools and certifications to be scammed into flat rate which is partly a guaranteed hourly wage and the rest is basically commission work for some shady ass independent, or chain shop mostly unless you get into a dealer. And only the dealers or rich independents got AC in their shops so you’re sweating your ass off doing labor work all day everyday for low to medium pay without any union support too.

[@dredscott168]

Good luck finding a school with auto shop or any other shop options.

[@AZ-hf9ow]

Making notches with the angle grinder was some next level diy creativity 😎👍

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@cutehumor]

Project Farm is about to get 20,000 emails of people asking if he can repair their cars. 🤣

[@ProjectFarm]

Lol

[@bixby9797]

My Brother In Law is like Todd. Scratch his head for a minute and fix anything. Inspector at the dirt track came around and said "secure that fire extinguisher". He looked around and grabbed a cheap coat off the seat, ripped out the velcro and done. Inspector was impressed.

[@wolverine89893]

@@bixby9797 He McGuyver that shit 😂😂

[@jonathankleinow2073]

I was about to say, I'm in the KC metro and have a 2007 Accord with this 2.4L engine. No oil leak, but it does burn some oil. I had the same P0420 and P0325 codes, which went away once I replaced the O2 sensor and knock sensor. If it needs any other work, though, I'd happily drive over to Peculiar to have Todd take a look at it!

[@LAP1050]

Great job Todd. The crack in the block repair, nothing but brilliant. You just helped hundreds of Honda owners, shade tree mechanics with your video, good for you👍🇺🇸

[@murmaider2]

FYI if a shop gives you a estimate like that its basically them saying "we don't want to work on your car because its not financially worth it for us".

[@ek8710]

It's what's called a "go away" price

[@agcons]

@@ek8710 Yep, "disincentive pricing" where I'm from - same idea.

[@murmaider2]

@@ek8710 also how you get rid of a problem customer

[@ORflycaster]

Then sometimes followed by an extremely low-ball offer to buy it.

[@RandomAxeOfKindness]

There aren't enough lawn companies in my area, so this is how they do estimates, too. Guy told us they've tripled their asking prices and then they just see who's willing to pay, and they still have plenty of business. My elderly neighbors have a medium-sized yard, and they were quoted $1600 to pick up leaves and cut the grass. My GF and I did it for them in two hours with rakes and a push mower. Told the neighbors "That just means the lawn company has more customers than they have time for."

[@aaronbown8119]

"I'm not a certified mechanic"...LOL, you are honestly better and more detailed than any of my mechanics!!

[@brentg8600]

Go to a different mechanic. Ur insane if u keep going back to someone ur not happy with... 😅

[@jacobg6528]

Most of you guys can barley clean your dingle berries off. Its extremely funny seeing people what what omg wild. Over some average wrenching.

[@Voyajer.]

@@jacobg6528 alright mr jiffy

[@everydayirace]

@@jacobg6528 you're not wrong.

[@alinatamashevich3354]

99% will not clean out the engine air filter box! Lazy AF

[@turbo97semax]

Great video. I have saved myself and family tens of thousands of dollars over the years by repairing my own cars ((Mercedes, BMWs Audis etc). So many shops these days overcharge. My friend’s car had a misfire from one coil on a Toyota Corolla and was quoted $600 to replace one coil pack or $1100 for 4 coil packs. I told him to get his car out of there and replaced all 4 coil packs and spark plugs for $120! It is ridiculous!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for sharing.

[@abel4776]

Mercedes? Hundreds of thousands!

[@jasonpatterson8091]

My problem is trusting the dealer at all. I just had a recall done on my F150 by a Ford mobile mechanic, software update only. He did a "check" on the truck and told me my back brakes were shot and that my front brakes should be replaced as well. I just had all four done less than a month ago and a quick visual inspection told me they were perfectly fine. If you find a competent and honest mechanic, support them!

[@ProjectFarm]

Good Point!

[@antoinepageau8336]

I gave up looking for one a couple years ago and went with electric. Never going back. I do like these videos though.

[@M.TTT.]

​@@antoinepageau8336 major L buying electric 😂

[@kennethryan8112]

Your gonna have to find a good tire and brake guy cause they use those up fast af​@antoinepageau8336

[@ZboeC5]

@@antoinepageau8336 Good for you I guess? Wait until you find out how much it cost to fix an electric car. Good luck, hope you only leased it.

[@131601]

I have a short attention span and I couldn’t stop watching this video. You are a wizard, and produce some high level thinking skills. Keep the content coming !

[@ProjectFarm]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@MattB90]

He talks so fast and never takes any breaks so you dont have an opportunity to leave the video lol

[@artillerybuff2000]

I was a master certified tech from 1977 until I retired in 2015, and the only time I take a vehicle in for a repair is when it is under warranty, and only then if it is fairly major because I just hate having other people work on my vehicles. That being said, I am VERY IMPRESSED with the work that you do Todd. On top of that, I do not purchase anything without first checking your reviews. Thank you so much for what you do!!

[@thunderb00m]

People who are worried about resale value do want the service history to show up on carfax. That's the only reason i get my oil changes done at a shop.

[@jacobg6528]

tech lol.

[@artillerybuff2000]

@@jacobg6528 that's right Jacob, master ASE and master GM certified, plus a life time community college teaching credential in automotive and diesel mechanics...

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@artillerybuff2000]

@jacobg6528 yeah, short for technician, that's what we're called...

[@vincentxu8486]

as a former techician, i could say one of the best repair video i ever seen. Full on details and the DIY repair is totally mind blowing. Great Job!!!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@CraigHollabaugh]

Love the hot glue to hold the exhaust gasket in place. That 'hillbilly machining' was ingenious! Thanks PF.

[@jacobg6528]

should of used exhaust cement lol

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome!

[@nospam3409]

You can also use a few dots of high temp RTV compound.

[@720MotorWorks]

0:10 "Only 209,408 miles" 😂 Love it

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@DonMarzzoni]

For a well maintained crv it's really not that bad

[@dangerdoberman]

Not that many miles.

[@scottymoondogjakubin4766]

Ive been a mechanic most of my life! Not only i repair my own vehicles but also help others with there repairs ! Saved thousands of dollars this year alone ! 💪

[@ProjectFarm]

Nice!

[@user-xd2ov4el8r]

I need to be friends with guys like you

[@hondaphan4172]

I've done all of the maintenance and repairs on my Hondas since '85. I currently own an '05 Pilot and a '98 CRV. The CRV was purchased new 26 1/2 years ago and it now has over 303K on it and the Pilot was purchased in '13 with 99K miles...now has 237K miles. The auto trans finally died on the CRV several days into 2023 at the 298,600 mile mark and replacing a transmission was something I had never done before. I studied online tutorials and bought the 800lb transmission jack from Harbor Freight(the one which tilts front to back and side to side....HIGHLY recommended). I bought a used one with 180K miles on it from a salvage yard in Arizona thru ebay. It took several days due to taking my time but it was such a feeling of satisfaction when I fired up the engine and the new(to me) trans worked flawlessly. BTW, your DIY fix for the engine block was next level ingenuity...impressive. I'm a longtime subscriber and love your channel.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for sharing.

[@peterparsons7141]

Myself and friends always did these repairs out of necessity. Most of us couldn’t afford to pay someone, so we had to try and get the job done. Completion of Each repair was a victory and allowed me to keep driving. 20 years ago it was much more difficult to do these repairs because information was difficult to find. Parts and tools were limited. Times are much different and I encourage all young car owners to do these small repairs. Thanks to Project Farm for sharing this information and hopefully motivating someone to help themselves. This is a fantastic public service video for all car owners.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@wirenutt57]

50 years ago it was much easier to do these repairs because cars were simple. I mean lawnmower simple. For example, you could swap in a junkyard engine in an afternoon for a total of $200. Same with the transmission.

[@MrDriftspirit]

@@wirenutt57 so we all should drive these cars built before 174 and hope that there were parts on next junk yard...

[@MrDriftspirit]

i think only people with a have a good sensitivity should repair those parts who can have an safety affect. steearing, supsension, brakes and those engine parts which can lead to a n oil or cooling leak should only be self repaired wtih 100 surance that it ll work. or do you think those oil spilling traces on the roads is only from bad profesional mechnaics? in europe are existing rental shops with car lifting devices. after you finished work, the shop owne ror an mechnanic does a look over your work for little money. and if he says its bad done. ones again as long as it is done well

[@orusandornots1915]

Same here bud. I'd buy a car and then a Chilton's manual that I kept in the glove box. I remember when I was in the military I was so broke as an E2 and every repair was an emergency, rebuilding a carbonator for the first time in the pouring rain and so much more lol.

[@jackblacker6099]

Good god man…this guy could never be fooled, he knows how to test literally everything!!! Everyone needs a guy like this in their corner 🙏🏻

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@DanKoning777]

Obviously it's your choice, but you want to have the greatest "Advocate" there for you in any/all situations; I'd consider not using Gods name so flippantly, and testing the limits of His grace/patience. Just a thought.

[@jackblacker6099]

@@DanKoning777 you live your life, I’ll live mine

[@doctor_who1]

@@ProjectFarm Hi, we hear most wear at startup. Can you test how long an oil film will stay on the cylinder wall when engine is not used? 1 day? 1 week? 1 month? 1 year? thanks

[@porschetech72901]

thing is tho sir you go to the effort of researching and applying proper techniques and processes where as it seriously doubtful to be the average persons thought process or habbit

[@calvins1837]

For people that take their car in and get an estimate like this, remember this. Most of these items needing repaired didn't fail at the same time. Regular preventative maintenance checks can find each problem as it appears or just before. So when you spread out your costs over a couple years it is more manageable than all at once. Consider this a payment on your paid off car or truck. Sometimes you can plan for some things like the ball joint, regularly jacking the car and checking you may notice it is starting to fail, this knowledge can give you a couple weeks to plan in your budget to make the upcoming repair. As always a great and thorough video.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Good Point!

[@ronmorrell9809]

@calvins1837 Playing devil's advocate... Doing it all at one time seems more efficient. He only needed to jack up & remove the rotor once to replace several front end components and the exhaust system. Made for a long day for him (would be a week for me), but it's all done.

[@calvins1837]

@ronmorrell9809 I was speaking about how some people have to budget to get repairs done. Makes more sense to keep on top of things instead of letting them go. Procrastinating and oil change may damage your engine, but won't hurt anyone, driving with a bad ball joint could cause an accident, hurt or kill you or someone else. I was raised in a shop so I see things differently I guess. Seeing my dad help people that couldn't afford the repairs they neglected by prioritizing the safety ones first.

[@mikelemoine4267]

Plus he only spent 3 months (as little as one month) car payments on a new car.

[@sneville44]

Nice job Todd. One trick I use to save myself a front end alignment, I make a cold chisel mark on the upper eccentric bolt and the strut housing before disassembly. That way when you reinstall the strut you line up the marks you made and retain the original camber.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.

[@BartSparrow123]

If you replace a control arm you need an alignment. Even if it's an OEM arm.

[@fizwin1]

@@BartSparrow123 still great advice though. It gets you pretty darn close and much better then just "throwing it on there"

[@BartSparrow123]

@@fizwin1 agreed.

[@LTZ_Z71]

Videos like this is why I do all my own maintenance on vehicles that no longer have a factory warranty.

[@giggiddy]

If you have the ability to do it correctly you are way ahead of the game for sure.

[@Okurka.]

Doing your own maintenance doesn't void the factory warranty.

[@bixby9797]

Crack in engine block? JB Weld has entered the chat! I did all of this on my CRV and saved thousands. Honda's are very easy to work on and unless ran without oil or something really off the wall are about as bullet proof as you can get. Only difference is everything replaced (ball joints, arms etc) have grease fittings. Change the oil, grease the car and look at it. Same on my F150

[@ProjectFarm]

lol. It did the job!

[@stonent]

@@ProjectFarm I know someone who used JB Weld to fix a cracked cylinder wall on a Caterpillar diesel before. He said it was fine after that.

[@bixby9797]

@@stonent I was way back in the woods fishing for trout and ran across a logger fixing a skidder. JB Weld.

[@bondovwvw]

As a certified JB welder I approve!

[@TheRoadhammer379]

CRVs suffer from transmission issues due to metal in the fluid causing shift solenoids to short out. Luckily for me, I have picked up 2 for dirt cheap because shops instantly tell owners "you need a new transmission"

[@Zenkai76]

Can we all agree that the most amazing part of this video is that he didn't lose the 10mm socket? lol Great video! Fixing my own truck just by researching it and visiting forums was a great feeling of accomplishment even though it was frustrating troubleshooting it myself!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@HotRod-wv4vm]

@@Zenkai76 that’s why I have around 8 10mm sockets 😀

[@WolfgangRhys]

These auto mechanic videos are some of my favorite of yours. That is saying a lot, because I love this channel!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@guylelanglois6642]

Great to know that there are still people out there with enough sense to do it yourself. Thanks

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome!

[@DIY-AutoMech]

I am not a certified mechanic either. And I've been a DIY for over 25 yrs. I've been maintaining my 3 Toyota vehicles for the past 19 yrs. ('05 RAV4 - 341K+ mi since New; '05 Sienna - 162k mi since New; '06 Highlander Ltd - 132k mi since 42k mi pre-owned). I've worked on motor mounts, CAT, complete control arms, stabilizer links, CV Axles, valve cover gaskets, complete struts/shocks and basically all mechanical jobs - except taking an engine apart. 😁 Don't be afraid to do basic maintenance on your car. There are hundreds of videos online that show you what to do. With the current inflated economy, being a DIY can save you $$$$$. And best of all, knowing that the parts are actually replaced or repaired by you. And get that great feeling of accomplishment.

[@BruceLee-xn3nn]

I'm 51 years old, I've had busted knuckles and grease under my nails since I was 12. You save a ton of money doing your own work and you can buy broken down vehicles and fix it yourself for alot less than buying running.

[@waterloo123100]

That will fade away quickly if new cars keep being made like this

[@uberDoward]

I just want to say, that these kinds of jobs are a lot of fun if you get a couple friends over to help. Everyone learns, and everyone can work together on each other's projects. Some of my favorite memories with my friends is stuff exactly like this!

[@ProjectFarm]

Good Point!

[@YourWifesBoyfriend]

Forgot the beer LOL

You know someone is a pro when they make stuff look easy lol I love the humble " Im not a mechanic", sir you indeed are one

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@w.b.maguireii6617]

No question. "Very impressive!"

[@rikityrik]

“Imagine all the tools you can buy with the money you saved by doing your own car repairs.” Man, I think this exact thought every time. That’s awesome! I know it was a “car repair” video but I think it pretty much no matter what it is that’s needing worked on. Plus, Its sometime it’s just fun learning new things, how things work and then also being self sufficient. And of course I love shopping for new tools😬 Okay yeah, and I’m cheap. Haha But seriously, it’s one of the reasons your channel/ content is so great and vital for all us consumers out here!!! Im sure I speak for all your viewers when I say, we/ I truly appreciate you!👍 Thank you, Todd.🙏

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks so much!

[@samt2191]

Smashing the like button before I watch the video because I know project farm will never let us down!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you! It means a lot to me!!

[@PageMarker1]

Standard procedure!

[@CrusinVK]

110% every single time.! even for tools/products that i never need and have zedro interest in, i always enjoy seeing his thought process at work.

[@alsmalley]

I’d like to see something similar to these videos for home maintenance. I loved the checklist from your previous video.

[@ProjectFarm]

Great idea!

[@ClipPointCam]

that is a great idea!

[@jdangberg]

@@ProjectFarm I can see an anode rod replacement video coming....

[@chuckm.9744]

@@jdangberg along with flushing the water heater.

[@otarsulava]

Suggested video: Best manual FLUID EXTRACTOR PUMP, either small ones that can be used for differential or transfer case fluid change as an example, or the large ones 2.5 gallon capacity for engine / transmission oil / radiator coolant change.

[@ProjectFarm]

Great suggestion!

[@beargillium2369]

but wait ​@@ProjectFarm I thought you made your own!

[@josephwu3136]

Don’t tell me you’re gonna make this video and not what’s the best coolant despite me asking you for the past 10 videos you made

[@TheKillerMarine]

​@josephwu3136 Coolant isn't interchangeable unless you mean brand. If that's the case there isn't enough difference to be manageable

[@ohiohouston3560]

I really like the ewk 6L extractor.

[@larryweiss7170]

This total repair is beyond my 84-year-old capabilities, but, as usual, I love watching you work.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@michaelseitz8938]

Amazing work, as always! You didn't just save a lot of money, you also cleaned everything you touched to prevent future problems. I don't think a busy repair shop would do more than using the shop vac and a wire brush just to remove the very worst dirt... Edit: Encouraging people to do their own repairs is not just about saving money. It will also prevent cars from getting scrapped because a shop repair would be too expensive 💖

[@piquat1]

You also get to follow behind some of your previous mechanics repairs and see if they were really worth the money. Looking at you... 'guy who cross threaded the bolt on my stabilizer end link, and left it that way'. Nothing like laying on the ground and chopping one of those off with an angle grinder. Fun times.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.

[@a1465]

Thank you for inspiring hundreds of thousands of people to learn how to fix their own stuff again!!

[@steveseybolt]

I fixed my own Windshield with the RainEX Kit after watching your review. Safelite wanted me to drop off my vehicle in 106 degree day as they had no waiting room. I live 35 miles from them and they wouldn't come fix. I did it for 12 bucks and It's Perfect Fix ! As Usual your Channel saved me , Thank you .

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.

[@lilbrdd849]

I love how detailed and in-depth these videos are! Easy to watch and easy to learn👍👍👍

[@tndeere]

I think we are going to see more people restoreing older vehicles and driving them 200,000 miles or more due to the high cost of a new car.I'm currently spending about $3500 to fix up my 2003 Toyota sequoia with 225,000 miles hoping to drive it another 200,000. These are great videos and will help poeple repair their own cars and get more miles out them.Great job as always.

[@pauldulworth2768]

Another example of how sometimes it can make more sense to keep an old car and fix it rather than just replace it. This channel is so good. Thanks.

[@johnafagerquist8235]

Sometimes? Almost ALL times. Fix the car you have. Especially if it's paid for.

[@MrBottlecapBill]

As long as repairs and fuel consumption numbers work out as being cheaper, repair! If it's a lemon model however.......it may not be worth it. Some engines just don't have longevity anymore.

[@xcofcd]

Newer cars are not getting better...

[@Nick-ue7iw]

@@johnafagerquist8235 Well, i wouldnt count on that engine block lasting another 100k, or even 20k miles, before cracking again. If I wanted to keep it, id be looking at a replacement block.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome!

[@jrr851]

Project Farm wanted to be able to write off all the parts to fix his CRV. Good work!

[@Roadhammer42]

Great episode on giving people confidence to do some of their own repairs. Keep up the good work.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks, will do!

[@MrPoppyDuck]

Nice job fixing that oil leak! That was fantastic work.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@ProblemChild-xk7ix]

Could you have welded up that crack?

[@stunttrumpet]

Great Video. I am going through the same thing with a 2002 VW Jetta. Friend was told by several dealers that it was "Toast". Junk yard offered $400 for it and it runs great. I bought it from her and fixed everything. About $600 in parts and specialty work, (computer programing). All fixed and I have a comfortable , fun car.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for sharing.

[@I_USE_BLUARM_ULTRAKILL]

I remember those! Scratching off the rubber trim inside, cleaning the intake with my dad for the 4th time that year... good times.

[@user-bv8ex3lk6h]

People bash on jettas of that gen.. Here in mexico, you see a lot of them running fine.. Autozone has all the parts if not, amazon has it, or many junk yards.. From what i have seen, you have to treat them very very bad to really damage them..

[@garrettforchrist2700]

Pretty genius way to save an engine block! I'm loving your mechanic videos! I always repair my own vehicles as well! It's a nice feeling saving all that money! I Love all your mechanic and handyman skills, and I Love that you're procedures are very clear and easy to follow!🇺🇲✝️🇺🇲

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome!

[@Vixiea]

I really like these long form car repair videos, they give me confidence to try my own repairs and help me understand the basic construction of cars.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing.

[@user-hr3nn9db7o]

Great video! Felt very nostalgic for me. Several years back, a family member was getting rid of an 05 CRV with 250,000 miles on it. It became too problematic for them and they decided to buy a new car. They said I could keep it, sell it, or do whatever I wanted with it. Over the course of a year, I did all of the repairs from this video, plus rear struts, a few bushings, a brake job, differential fluid change, new steering pump, and new alternator. The only thing I had professionally done was a transmission rebuild ($1500). All told, I think I spent $2,500 for an otherwise free car that has since been driven over 75,000 miles and shows no signs of stopping.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for sharing.

[@everready19373]

About 25 years ago I was changing the brake pads on my 1993 Festiva and I could not get one of the caliper bolts to break loose. I took it up to Midas and asked them to hit it with an impact driver, put some antiseize on it and torque it to spec so I could take it apart the next day. They wrote an $800 estimate for all of the things "wrong" with my car. I called my father in law, a mechanic for over 30 years and he told me how to proceed. I ended up spending about $80.00 in part and it took me about 3 hours of labor.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing.

[@bansheedearg]

$800 in 1993 is like $1736 today. That's a lot.

[@deadswarmaking1135]

First person I've seen on KZbin use dielectric grease on spark plugs correctly. Thank you sir!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome!

[@Okurka.]

And a torque wrench.

[@rjsoderlund81]

I think it was crazy not trying to fix the block first before spending any time or money on anything else since it was the biggest gamble and the highest likelihood that the entire project would end up being scrapped if it ended up not being fixable.

[@zack9912000]

probably did, but edited for our entertainment

[@cubiczirconiabeard5366]

that block could be fixed with an oil leak additive......why fix it anyway? car that old, the leaking oil stops under body rust.

[@javiermaldonado40]

Most times a shop won’t attempt a fix like this cause the won’t warranty it and if the car breaks down cause of a repair like this they are liable

[@JandS-y1o]

With that kind of mileage, I would have just sent it with the oil leak. Just check the level and top off every so often

[@thedreadedgman]

but how would you know it was cracked until you replaced the leaking sensor and it still leaked, then you looked closer

[@Gargoyle11]

I gotta comment quickly again so you’ll see this but PLEASE keep up the car related content!! Always love watching!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you very much!

[@Vinlyguyx420x]

These types of “Project” videos are so awesome! Literally your entire audience dreams about doing cool stuff like this!!! PLEASE POST MORE IF YOU CAN!!!

[@curtisi4403]

Todd, you not only saved yourself money but our time spent watching related videos.

[@afellowinnewengland6142]

Great video! This perfectly underlines why it makes sense to try and fix an older car rather than buy a new one (or pay a shop thousands you don't have). I think the only challenge for the average person is knowing where to find the right tools, the right parts, the right scanners, etc. Perhaps creating a video that puts together ALL the essential tools, recommended brands, scanners, info sources for a DIYer would be helpful. As a retired tech, I sometimes take for granted what seems obvious, but most folks need a lot of help. Your level of skill and knowledge is definitely above 95% of the population.

[@constructionbootgazer]

It’s not as cost effective to work on older vehicles here up North. Mechanically the car could be fine, but the chassis is just toast from the salt and snow. At that point, all the hardware under the body is caked in rust. Oil spraying is common, though I don’t do it to my vehicles, as it’s not guaranteed to prevent anything and mostly just makes a big mess. Lots of other people stuck in apartments and are not allowed to wrench in the parking lot, but also, dragging a tools up and down the elevator (if you’re lucky) just gets old fast. Doing anything under the car in winter is a nightmare; indoors you’re got salty snow dripping into your face non-stop; outdoors you’re laying on the cold shit trying to back a bolt off with gloves on. Generally parts can be cheap, but seems like everything has a recycling/environmental fee for disposal. The cash for trash program in the 2010s destroyed a lot of those old good 90s cars unfortunately, and Covid supply/demand issues took care of the rest. A 3800 impala LS, Pontiac g8, GM vortec trucks…..they’re all relics now.

[@afellowinnewengland6142]

@@constructionbootgazer I dunno, I live in New England and my cars are rust free. Go through the car wash once a week in the Winter and hit the chassis with some Fluid Film in the Fall and we've always been fine. They're 18-20 years old which seems older than most these days. New cars hardly seem to rust anymore. Back in the 1980's and earlier everything rusted through in a few years...I've never had a problem working on a car in an apartment complex over the years though every neighborhood is different. When I lived in Boston I used to do front end work on jacks in public streets...It's not a good attitude to make so many excuses why you can't do anything. If money is tight and you need a car you fix it. I've done work under cars when it's 20 degrees out because I had to. If you're wealthy and can avoid all this good for you. This video wasn't for you.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@constructionbootgazer]

@@afellowinnewengland6142 all good points as well. I’m not trying to make excuses, just trying to see things from other peoples angles and the headaches one would have to contend with. I would imagine most of the good folks watching these videos are tradesmen like you and I and have the knowledge to perform these services, while the rest here have at least a passing interest in doing so. Not sure exactly what kinda point I was trying to make, maybe just that do what works best for your situation. But also I’m just jealous of people in the southern states who don’t have to deal with extra bullshit like the 4th season haha

[@donhozy]

These car repair videos are by far some of my favorite because of how they tie into previous product review/comparison videos. Thank you!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing.

[@ed3959]

This guy is amazing. He fixed the Engine crack and called it "Hill Billying" but he's wrong. He MACGUYVERED it!!!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@Okurka.]

MacGyver never used a 3D printer.

[@BitSmythe]

20:43 *No, you may not be a “certified mechanic” but you’re certainly the one who should train them!*

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@RogerM88]

Project Farm making other multiple known KZbin channels repairing cars, a run for their money. Very educational and straight to the point.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@Outlaw653]

On the way to the beach this past week the engine light on my truck started flashing and it was running rough. Stopped by advance auto parts and borrowed their code reader, identified cylinder #1 misfire, spent $109 on a new coil pack and was back on the road in no time. Definitely saves money if you can do the work yourself. They also have tools you can borrow just in case anyone didn’t know.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing.

[@1mustardtiger]

Could have repaired that old coil pack for about 9 dollars.

[@Outlaw653]

@@1mustardtiger yeah maybe but I was 4 hours from home with 4 more hours to go with my family waiting in the parking lot.

[@1mustardtiger]

@@Outlaw653 They don't respect you?

[@Peter_Riis_DK]

It absolutely eluded me how the ABS-plug and the dowel pin was used. If they are in front of the oil pressure sensor blocking the oil... And yeah, otherwise great job - especially impressive result with the headlamps.

[@Quickened1]

Yeah, I'm with ya. Didn't quite get that whole bit, but whatever worked!

[@cbkenison]

The only way I can work out how he did it was he center drilled a through hole in the bolt/oring holder, and shortened the bolt quite a bit so the oil switch still gets pressure readings but oil can't get around to the outside where the crack is? Honestly not sure how this worked either though

[@Peter_Riis_DK]

@@cbkenison Exactly. That's what I also considered, but I would expect him to show such a delicate and interesting operation too.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@ohheycody]

I too am very confused.

[@cannotequaltoshould4911]

I bought a used 2004 CRV for my son a couple of years ago to learn to drive on and had to make many if not all of the same repairs. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome!

[@LegendaryMike]

"Imagine the tools you can buy with all the money you save by doing your own car repairs." This quote really encouraged me to think about that. I like tools but don't currently posses the skills to use them. I could learn a new life skill that would not only help me but eventually help someone else. You probably said that just as a joke but you have given me something to really consider. Thanks for making videos like this along side of the product reviews.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you for your thoughts

[@ryanedwardking]

I learned woodworking and how to work on cars entirely through KZbin. Go for it.

[@AxGryndr]

That trick to get the brake rotor off was genius - I will have to add that to my bag of tricks. Thanks! My 2005 Dodge 1500 needed some front end work and the dealership wanted $5000. After I started taking things apart, I decided that I had half of the front end disassembled, so might as well go all of the way. I ended up replacing every part of the front end steering for $1700 in parts and about 2 weeks of after work time. In the end, I did more work for cheaper. Considering the truck only has around 80,000 miles it was totally worth it.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@BiggMo]

0:23 Can you imagine spending $13,000 to only find out your engine block is cracked

[@newsweathertraffic18]

$5,800 of that $12,000 estimate was to replace the engine.

[@rprastein]

I spent over $6000 last year for a transmission overhaul on an 04 Sienna (due to radiator failure into the transmission) plus some overdue routine maintenance, to find out some hack replacing the AC compressor a couple of years prior had put the wrong screw in the wrong hole and tightened it right into the engine block, causing an oil leak. New mechanic had it welded. Then another several thou on suspension work and motor mounts. I am NOT happy with how much money I've spent fixing our old vehicles the past 2 years. Wish I had the time and the knowledgeable friends to tackle more than the super-minor stuff.

[@MrDriftspirit]

i am not sure but do you get this diagnosis on a koenigsseg or mc laren for only 13000 bucks?

[@ExploreWithIsaac]

Imagine spending $13,000 to fix up a 22 year old car.

[@milithemuffin4534]

@@newsweathertraffic18 He said rebuild, so it is possible they were planning to just change the head hasket, rubber seals and minor accessories. 4:11 With the markup they had on other parts I highly doubt this was supposed to be an entinre new engine. Just the most essential parts for a built 4 cylinder will run you about that much nowadays. BTW a 40kW 2 cylinder costs about 1000$ to manufacture at large scale, excluding the catalytic converters.

[@dubcindub15]

Even as a non-driver, some of the charges are extortionate. License plate bulb, wipers, air filters, even the headlight restoration if you can get the right grit abrasives and a polisher. Plus apart from Todds ball cracker or ball puller 🤭 kit thing , almost everything is standard spanner or screwdriver sizes, very little specialist equipment needed. Another great video Todd, well done.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@xhall0910]

Imagine the feeling of the repair shop guys after putting in the work of checking the entire vehicle, listing every part and work hours (and experience) needed, and watching this video.

[@KylesMonitors]

It likely only took them about an hour to diagnose then another 20-30 minutes to type it all up.

[@ghostwrench2292]

What feeling do you imagine they would have? They wrote a repair estimate, he did the work himself. Why would they care?

[@Taydrum]

They don't care. The cost of labor and parts is what keeps their business alive. They do these repairs all the time on their own cars

[@michaels3429]

Lol. Techs dont make money on parts. Techs get a SMALL portion of the labor cost only. Also the inspection and recommends are unpaid.

[@DevideNull]

good for you. I'm sure there's more work waiting. sometimes they charge ridiculous prices with the implication that they don't want to work on this car, please find someone else.

[@faxmen09]

You may not be a certified mechanic, but you are a Renaissance guy. The engine block save, pretty amazing. You definitely have some Mech/Tech skills. Nice job.

[@ethanself907]

First off, the repair to the crack in the block is impressive and I need to rewatch it to fully grasp the repair. 2 things, I think I saw that the lower control arms were torqued to spec while in the air, it’s important to wait until the wheels are on the ground with the weight of the car on it before torquing bushings otherwise they may tear. The only question I had is if a valve adjustment was attempted? K series require periodic valve adjustments, if they’re not fully seating it may lower compression, since all cylinders are pretty even there may not be much to gain. Great vid as always!

[@8m617]

You ever figure out what he did? I rewatched the repair twice but he’s so brief I still can’t figure out the plug orientation / design of the port for the oil galley. I am certified JB Welder with baling wire and zip tie endorsements but still can’t grasp the full repair. Someone please enlighten us!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@Someoneudontknow1231]

This is astonishing. After years of watching you somehow never fail to amaze me with your ingenuity, brilliance and knowledge. Great video!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@levihull6820]

At 9:51 the cotter pin is not going through the castle nut at all, you should have used a washer or spacer behind the nut so that the cotter pin would actually hold it in place.

[@sulefff]

Happened to notice that too

[@COBRO98]

The cotter pin is only there as a fail-safe, it'll be fine either way

[@hayesbrewer9014]

Sometimes a large estimate from a shop can be misunderstood as the shop wants you to pay $12,000 for all if the repairs. When I write up a big estimate like that I know almost everything is going to be deferred. I want my customer to understand everything that is going on with their car before they spend $2000 to limp it along and keep it on the road.

[@jonathankleinow2073]

The reason I trust my shop is that they've pointed out before what can be deferred versus what needs to be fixed urgently. If a shop is presenting this $12,000 estimate as "all or nothing" and not walking through options for slimming it way down, then they're not looking out for the customer.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing.

[@hightttech]

YUP. CYA.

[@jacobmotes7497]

Last week, i got in my 06 Honda pilot only to see the battery light come on. Short trip to O'Reillys confirmed the alternator was bad. Bought a new one while i was there. I have all the tools i needed from 10 years of doing my own car repairs and replaced it in 1.5 hours. Man, it feels good!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing.

[@cedriclynch]

Did you investigate the old alternator? Maybe it only needed new brushes or a regulator.

[@steveww07]

it feels good knowing you cant even confirm your alternator is bad???

[@jhpfmj]

Excellent video sir. I had a 2000 Honda Accord it had about 300000 miles on it. It didn't have any issues. However, I got t-boned dead center on the driver's side one day when I was on the way to work

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Sorry to hear!

[@robwebster1098]

It's a honda so definitely have enough 10mm sockets around!😂😂😂

[@ProjectFarm]

lol. Great point!!

[@wolverine89893]

I keep losing those dam things 😂😂

[@ACoustaDC]

@@wolverine89893 We all do friend.... We all do.

[@ChaosFragrances]

Love these automotive videos, keep them coming!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@warbirdwf]

I've always marveled with how the vast majority of automotive repair shops and dealership service departments get away with either ripping people off or trying to rip people off w/no consequences. If you steal a thousand dollars from someone's wallet, or shoplift a $100 dollars worth of merchandise from a store, you get arrested. However, if a automotive repair shop knowingly tries to tell you a part that isn't bad needs to be replaced or other non-needed expensive work, they are not arrested for stealing? My wife took her Chevy to the dealer for an oil change that they had a special on. Within an hour, they called telling her they found all these issues with her car that would cost a couple thousand dollars. None of their recommended repairs were needed of course. Why can't we call the police and have these people arrested? I....don't....understand...!

[@ZboeC5]

It's a civil matter...That's exactly what police would say.

[@amdeloach]

Depending on what they're recommending, you could in theory get an AG to bring fraud charges, but it'd be a lot of wiggle room in most cases, so probably hard to prosecute. And since there's a lot of prosecutors that are elected, they worry about the "anti-business" label being applied to them.

[@ScottLeland]

Couple months ago I had problems passing smog inspection, took it to a shop? Without doing any diagnostic on my car mechanic wrote me a quote $7000 for catalytic converters, I told him you haven’t even looked at my car, he said it’s catalytic code it’s always the catalytic converter that are bad. So left the shop got home it was a sensor that was unplugged.. went back to the shop told them I fixed it, and why where they planning to rip me off, mechanic got pissed of and just yelled at me “get the fuck out of here” so I left 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@gophop]

You still get parts and labor for your money, so it's not theft. Much like false advertising, it's a shtty thing to do but is usually not prosecuted.

[@grifter22840]

I just wanted to say thanks, I used your headlight restoration in this vid as a tutorial and just polished my own with decent results.

[@ramonortiz5651]

I really appreciate the time and effort you put to each video especially this one because I have the same Honda crv from all of us viewers thank you.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you very much!

[@2tirefire79]

This is why i keep coming back.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you very much!

[@ImpendingJoker]

Todd, as a long time aircraft mechanic I would recommend you go back to those castellated nuts and add a washer stack to them and retorque as there is too much space between the castellations and the cotter pins. This will allow them to loosen over time and let the bolts elongate the holes causing further problems in the future.

[@stephendavies923]

I have just been looking through the comments to see if anyone else noticed this before posting about it. Especially noticale at 09:52.

[@stuarttierney4598]

@@stephendavies923 Me too. My actual thoughts were "those split pins aren't doing shit", but the OP was far more eloquent about it. I'd have to wonder if the parts used were incorrect and intended for something with more meat on the tapered socket? Myself, I'd be inclined to drill a new hole in the bolt in a more appropriate place than washers. Maybe in some cases washers are fine, but having that much thread hanging out of the knuckle would concern me, washers or not.

[@stephendavies923]

@@stuarttierney4598 Drilling another hole would be my choice.

[@cavalieroutdoors6036]

@@stuarttierney4598 The torque is what holds the nut in place. The split pin is only there to keep the bolt from walking all the way out *if* it gets worked loose. So far, I have never seen one work loose, and I've been working on Hondas/Acuras for nearly 10 years.

[@reallyhappenings5597]

Noted

[@jdesaavedra0432]

Todd, I have learned that the first thing you check before removing the strut is whether or not there are camber eccentric bolts. Great tutorial!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@larrye]

"I'm not a Certified mechanic". Probably knows more about car repairs than 95% of mechanics I've met. 😂

[@ptbruiser2243]

No shop is worth $120 an hour

[@COBRO98]

@@ptbruiser2243 $120 is cheap in 2024, average labor rate is about $200 now

[@ZboeC5]

@@COBRO98 It's highly dependent on where you live. The average isn't anywhere near $200 an hour nationwide.

[@COBRO98]

@@ZboeC5 Uh any shop that isn't a hole-in-the-wall is near $200. Most luxury brands are charging $300+ now. My dealership is charging $210 and we're one of the cheaper ones around, you must not get out much.

[@christopherlowery855]

I love this video. Thanks for the mention about the vacuum pump. Every part of this video was great. My dad once patched a hole in an engine block with a steel plate and some JB weld. Not exactly a professional job, but it kept the car running. Last year, I rebuilt my engine in my back yard under my porch. In total, all the work took 40hrs. (Had to pull the engine twice) Lots of upgraded parts were included in the rebuild. When doing the work yourself, even adding performance parts becomes cheaper than shop labor. Certain work, like machining and fabrication, should be done by a professional or shop, but bolt-on work is easy enough in most cases. Mechanic work isn't for everyone. It helps to have a technical mind. That being said, I think a lot of youth are afraid to break their vehicle. Videos like this help to encourage the DIY avenue. These videos really show off the "Project Farm" spirit. Thanks for the inspiration. Cheers.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome!

[@PageMarker1]

Very impressive! One of your best videos.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks so much!

[@WisconsinWanderer]

As a retired guy these videos are extremely helpful and informative I can’t afford to be taken advantage of for car repairs so I have to do them myself luckily I have 2nd car. Thanks again 😊

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.

[@jaysrandomnesschannel]

Almost 13 GRAND?? Not on something that old...these shops are going insane 😂😂

[@ProjectFarm]

Great point!

[@shadowopsairman1583]

You can blame the fed gov for cost of operation going up and fwd are not repair friendly

[@FreiherrDinkelacker]

@@ProjectFarm Not the shops fault. Most people here have no clue what the shops have to pay for overhead costs. Then, factor in the $30 minimum per hour for a competent mechanic plus thei SS, taxes, and liability insurance for the employee. Then, the high price of Chinesium parts that are substandard quality. I am a mechanic and will tell you EVERYTHING is over-priced or highly expensive to repair.

[@mgzukows]

It's time and Materials. Skilled labor is not getting paid minimum wage. And parts/ rent is what they cost. That doesn't change with the age of the vehicle. If you want someone else to do the work you gotta pay their rate. If you want to do it yourself you can learn it and pay the cost of tools and parts.

[@TM_Stone]

@@ProjectFarm I'm really surprised you took on replacing the license plate bulb. Even experienced mechanics struggle with that repair job.

[@REDBIRD-95]

That's why I do my own repairs. The amount of money shops charge for labour (especially stealerships) is criminal! Unfortunately, there are some repairs that require taking your vehicle to a shop. Most repairs are fairly easy to do, and if a person lacks the confidence to attempt a repair, there are outstanding KZbin mechanics out there like Eric O (Southmain Auto) and Ray (Rainman Ray's Repairs) You can follow along with the repair and gain confidence in doing it yourself and avoid getting robbed by a repair shop. Thanks Todd for another great video. Have a great Sunday my friend👍

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome!

[@workingguy6666]

For the average person watching this, it isn't about the fixing, it's about the diagnosing it all correctly and having the specialized tools to make the repair. If you were to add in incorrect diagnostics by newbies, and the hours/days spent trying to learn what one didn't know, plus the unique tools being purchased by someone who is trying to keep their 200k-mile car running well, that may very well add up to $12k.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@sparkie5571]

you’ll never know if you never try.

[@TheUkfan69]

I don't understand this rational. Even if you don't know intuitively what's wrong with the car, diagnosing the problems is a learning experience that will pay dividends for the rest of your life.

[@williamrizzo8574]

Auto Zone/advanced/oriellys all have tool rental.

[@mds2465]

I just bought an 05 CR-V with a stick last summer, and it's currently my daily driver. I love it. I have had to do a few of these repairs but thankfully not all of the ones that this car needed.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing.

[@papo862]

then shops wonder why most customers deny repairs 😂

[@ProjectFarm]

Great point

[@youngwepa9059]

i literally just did all this in one weekend ! Same car got it for 2500$ Just gotta change the steering pump fluid and car runs like a champ i commute to work 100 miles a day and save so much on gas ! 🎉🎉

[@ProjectFarm]

Nice!

[@SimonCas]

My company has employed currently over 1500 engineers. I’ve never met an engineer with any creativity or problem solving skills like this guy.

[@kevinleukhardt9560]

Well said! I think Todd may have some engineering training....

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@jteegarden9197]

I have to give you props.I never thought about using an oscillating tool with a carbide attachment to cut bolts, certainly something I'll keep in mind next time I can't get the angle grinder in there