Diagnostics

Guided decision trees for common car problems. Pick your symptom, answer two or three questions, and get the likely causes with evidence, a drive-or-stop verdict, and what to do next — in about two minutes.

• ABS Warning Light

  The ABS light is on. What it means — and when it comes with the red brake light, stop.

  ~2 min · Includes stop-driving verdicts

• Brake Noise — Squeal to Grinding

  Squealing, squeaking, or grinding when you brake. Is it a wear warning — or metal on metal?

  ~2 min · Includes stop-driving verdicts

• Brake Pedal Goes to the Floor

  The pedal sinks too far or feels wrong. With a warning light or visible fluid: this is urgent.

  ~2 min · Includes stop-driving verdicts

• Car Won’t Start

  Clicking, silence, cranking but not firing, or dead after sitting. Two questions to a verdict.

  ~2 min

• Coolant Leak

  Visible leak, running hot, or coolant missing with no puddle. Overheating logic is strict here.

  ~2 min · Includes stop-driving verdicts

General guidance for common problems — not a substitute for a qualified inspection. A diagnosis is only confirmed by testing.