Latest news with #mechanics
Auto Express
13 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Express
Best hand-cleaning wipes 2025
An oily rag has been a traditional feature of any garage since the car was invented. But time has moved on and these days most mechanics will prefer to use a disposable wipe to clean up tools and even their hands. While they are not the most eco-conscious choice and we would always recommend wearing gloves before handling nasty substances, single-use wipes will work where there is limited access to a tap and will help keep some unpleasant chemicals in the bin rather than in the water system. Wipes are also great for emergency clean ups after a small spill. Plus we'd recommend keeping a few in a sealed plastic bag in your glovebox or with your spare wheel to help tidy up if you need to change a wheel or carry out some other messy repair while on a journey. Which of our eight contenders will wipe away the opposition? We are looking for wipes which will be versatile in the workshop, so should be able to clean hands, tools, car parts and even help out if you accidentally mark a bit of seat trim with a grubby hand. Advertisement - Article continues below To test them, we checked if they were able to clean grease, diesel soot and bitumen-based underseal from a solid surface and a piece of fabric. We then tried the wipes on our hands, testing to see if they had a residue or left our skin feeling dried out. In addition to its cleaning power, we also rated each contender on value for money, based on the size and number of wipes in a pack. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below View IS View Polo View e-208 Hygimax's big tub contains 100 blue, textured wipes that are a huge 28cm square, making them the biggest here. This means they can pick up more dirt than rivals, doing a great job of cleaning dirty hands. They have just the right degree of moisture, with a limited amount of sticky residue, a pleasant orange aroma, and a gentle abrasive action. They were the only product tested that made a real impact on the tar spots and cleaned the fabric boot carpet well. Add in the price and they are a clear winner. Buy now from The Wipe Shop Price: around £12 around £12 Rating: 4.5 stars 4.5 stars Cost per wipe: 3p 3p Contact: We initially didn't consider the No Nonsense wipe because there is no mention of hand cleaning in the description. But we are pleased we did, because they did a good job and are unbeatable value. Although the tub is the same size as rivals', it is crammed with 300 wipes, which measure 25.5cm x 20cm. Advertisement - Article continues below The wipes' translucent white material is similar to several others in the test, but the detergent liquid is more effective than most, cleaning the soot easily and making some impact on the tar. Buy now from Screwfix Price: around £8 around £8 Rating: 4.0 stars 4.0 stars Cost per wipe: 8p 8p Contact: Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below If there was a prize for the best container, the Wonder Wipes would win. The big red pot resembles a small post box and has a rotating lid, which is easier to use than all of its rivals' caps – and is better at keeping the wipes moist. The 23cm x 21cm rectangles of soft, white, translucent material are thicker than the No Nonsenses and cleaned our hands well, despite having no abrasive action. An initial sticky residue soon disappeared as the detergent dried. Buy now front Tool Station Price: around £14 around £14 Rating: 3.5 stars 3.5 stars Cost per wipe: 15p 15p Contact: These appear very similar to the No Nonsense wipes, but miss out on a higher placing because they look poor value in comparison, especially because they are smaller, at 22cm x 19cm. The detergent used is different though, with a slightly almondy aroma, and it left some stickiness on our hands. Zep's wipes worked very well on the carpet material, but were unable to overcome the spots of tar. Advertisement - Article continues below Buy now from Amazon Price: around £8 around £8 Rating: 3.5 stars 3.5 stars Cost per wipe: 8.5p 8.5p Contact: The Gorillas feel slightly thicker and more abrasive than most rivals. The initially sticky and slimy feel disappears, but leaves a harsh chemically smell. They cleaned the soot reasonably well, but needed a bit more scrubbing on our hands and fabric, because there is less liquid infused in the wipe than in others. On the positive side the Gorilla Wipes are big, at 20 x 30cm. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below Buy now from Tool Station Price: around £8 around £8 Rating: 3.5 stars 3.5 stars Cost per wipe: 8p 8p Contact: After studying the ProDecs carefully and sniffing them, we are convinced they are the same as the Gorilla wipes, although in less interesting packaging. Unsurprisingly, this meant the cleaning performance was identical too. The big difference is the size of the wipe though. The Gorillas are 50 per cent bigger, which makes the ProDecs seem poorer value, because we needed two wipes to clean our grubby hands properly. Buy now from The Range Price: £16.99 £16.99 Rating: 3.0 stars 3.0 stars Cost per wipe : 21p : 21p Contact: We had high hopes for the Rozelex, because the company makes the hand-cleaning liquid that has won all our tests for the past six years. And sure enough, the big orange wipes work well, with an abrasive side that gets stuck into grime, and a softer surface on the reverse. They were especially good on the fabric, but their performance in the tar test was disappointing. These wipes would also have finished much higher overall if they weren't so expensive to buy. Buy now from Rozelex Price: £13.49 £13.49 Rating: 3.0 stars 3.0 stars Cost per wipe: 17p 17p Contact: These look very similar to the Hygimax wipes, but are smaller, at 25cm x 20cm. They claim to have added vitamin E and aloe vera, and made our hands feel good after the initial stickiness subsided. Yet they struggled on the fabric clean, and made no dent on the tar. At £13.49 for 80, our winner is better value. Buy now from Screwfix It's an easy win for Hygimax's wipes. They offer great value and the best cleaning performance. Screwfix's No Nonsense wipes take second place. They're not quite as good at cleaning, but there are three times as many wipes in each pot compared with rivals. Sika's Wonder Wipes are third. Our dealer network has 1,000s of great value new cars in stock and available now right across the UK. Find your new car… Car Deal of the Day: Super sci-fi Kia EV6 for an exceptional £260 per month Car Deal of the Day: Super sci-fi Kia EV6 for an exceptional £260 per month Our Deal of the Day for 31 May is an extremely attractive price for this extremely capable electric family car Car Deal of the Day: new Omoda 5, with all the kit you might need, for less than £200 per month Car Deal of the Day: new Omoda 5, with all the kit you might need, for less than £200 per month The Omoda 5 is one of the newest arrivals to the family SUV market, and now it's our Deal of the Day for 1 June Audi A3 Sportback 35 TFSI long term test: premium hatch is a joy to live with Audi A3 Sportback 35 TFSI long term test: premium hatch is a joy to live with First report: premium hatch joins our fleet, and its bright metallic paint has already earned it a nickname Long-term tests 1 Jun 2025
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Damaged engines didn't affect Palisades firefight. But they point to a larger problem
After the Palisades fire ignited, top brass at the Los Angeles Fire Department were quick to say that they were hampered by broken fire engines and a lack of mechanics to fix them. If the roughly 40 fire engines that were in the shop had been repaired, they said, the battle against what turned out to be one of the costliest and most destructive disasters in Los Angeles history might have unfolded differently. Then-Fire Chief Kristin Crowley cited the disabled engines as a reason fire officials didn't dispatch more personnel to fire-prone areas as the winds escalated, and why they sent home firefighters who showed up to help as the blaze raged out of control. The department, she said, should have had three times as many mechanics. But many of the broken engines highlighted by LAFD officials had been out of service for many months or even years — and not necessarily for a lack of mechanics, according to a Times review of engine work orders as of Jan. 3, four days before the fire. What's more, the LAFD had dozens of other engines that could have been staffed and deployed in advance of the fire. Instead, the service records point to a broader problem: the city's longtime reliance on an aging fleet of engines. Well over half of the LAFD's fire engines are due to be replaced. According to an LAFD report presented to the city Fire Commission last month, 127 out of 210 fire engines — 60% — and 29 out of 60 ladder trucks — 48% — are operating beyond their recommended lifespans. "It just hasn't been a priority," said Frank Líma, general secretary treasurer of the International Assn. of Fire Fighters who is also an LAFD captain, adding that frontline rigs are "getting pounded like never before" as the number of 911 calls increases. That means officials are relying heavily on reserve engines — older vehicles that can be used in emergencies or when regular engines are in the shop. The goal is to use no more than half of those vehicles, but for the last three years, LAFD has used, on average, 80% of the trucks, engines and ambulances in reserve, according to the Fire Commission report. "That's indicative of a fleet that's just getting older," said Assistant Chief Peter Hsiao, who oversees LAFD's supply and maintenance division, in an interview with The Times. 'As our fleet gets older, the repairs become more difficult,' Hsiao told the Fire Commission. 'We're now doing things like rebuilding suspensions, rebuilding pump transmissions, rebuilding transmissions, engine overhauls.' The problem stems from long-term funding challenges, Hsiao said in the interview, with the department receiving varying amounts of money each year that have to be divvied up among competing equipment needs. "If you extrapolate that over a longer period of time, then you end up in a situation where we are," he said. To make matters worse, Hsiao said, the price of new engines and trucks has doubled since the pandemic. Engines that cost $775,000 a few years ago are now pushing $1.5 million — and it takes three years or more to build them, he said. Read more: L.A. fire officials could have put engines in the Palisades before the fire broke out. They didn't The number of fire engine manufacturers has also declined. Recently, the IAFF asked the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission to investigate a consolidation in emergency vehicle manufacturers that it said has resulted in skyrocketing costs and "brutal" wait times. In a letter, the IAFF said that at least two dozen companies have been rolled up into just three main manufacturers. "These problems have reduced the readiness of fire departments to respond to emergencies, with dire consequences for public safety," the letter said. The IAFF is the parent organization of the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, the local union representing LAFD firefighters. IAFF has been running the local labor group since suspending its top officers last month over allegations of financial impropriety. Hsiao said the LAFD's fleet is well-maintained, and engines don't often break down. But the age and condition of the fleet could deteriorate further, even with an infusion of cash to buy new equipment, because the wait times are so long. Mayor Karen Bass' office has previously said that she secured $51 million last year to purchase 10 fire engines, five trucks, 20 ambulances and other equipment. The 2025-26 budget passed by the City Council last month includes nearly $68 million for 10 fire engines, four trucks, 10 ambulances and a helicopter, among other equipment, the mayor's office said. "The Mayor's Office is working with new leadership at LAFD to ensure that new vehicles are purchased in a timely manner and put into service," a spokesperson said in an email. A majority of the Fire Department's budget goes toward pay and benefits for its more than 3,700 employees, most of them firefighters. Despite the city's financial troubles, firefighters secured four years of pay raises last year through negotiations with Bass. And firefighters often make much more than their base pay, with about 30% of the LAFD's payroll costs going to overtime, according to the city's payroll database. Firefighters and fire captains each earned an average of $73,500 in overtime last year, on top of an average base salary of about $140,100, the data show. Líma said that while new engines will be useful, "a one-year little infusion doesn't help a systemic problem that's developed over decades." Asked whether firefighters would defer raises, he said they "shouldn't fund the Fire Department off the backs of their salaries." The National Fire Protection Assn. recommends that fire engines move to reserve status after 15 years and out of the fleet altogether after 25 years. But many larger cities need to act sooner, 'because of the constant wear and tear city equipment takes,' said Marc Bashoor, a former fire chief who now trains firefighters across the country, in an email. 'In my opinion, 10 years is OLD for city apparatus.' Bashoor also noted that incorporating a variety of brands into a fleet, as the LAFD does, can increase repair times. Read more: Bass ousts L.A. fire chief, saying LAFD needs new leadership 'When a fire department doesn't have a standardized fleet, departments typically are unable to stock enough … parts to fit every brand,' he said in an email. 'They then have to find the part or use a 3rd party, which can significantly delay repairs.' Of the roughly 40 engines in the shop before the Palisades fire, three were built in 1999. Hsiao said engines that old are typically used for training and don't respond to calls. Those that are too old or damaged from collisions or fires to ever return to city streets sometimes remain in the yard so they can be stripped for parts or used for training. Some are kept as evidence in lawsuits. According to the service records reviewed by The Times, a work order was opened in 2023 for a 2003 engine burned in a fire, with notes saying "strip for salvage." A 2006 engine damaged in an accident was waiting for parts, according to notes associated with a work order from last April. Two 2018 engines were damaged in collisions, including one with 'heavy damage' to the rear body that had to be towed in, according to notes for an order from last July. Other orders noted oil leaks or problems with head gaskets. Almost 30 of the engines that were out of service before the fire — 70% on the list — were 15 or more years old, past what the city considers an appropriate lifespan. Only a dozen had work orders that were three months old or less. That included three newer engines — two built in 2019 and one in 2020 — whose service records showed they were waiting for "warranty" repairs. After the fire, LAFD union officials echoed Crowley's fleet maintenance concerns. Freddy Escobar, who was then president of the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, blamed chronic underfunding. "The LAFD does not have the funding mechanism to supply enough mechanics and enough money for the parts to repair these engines, the trucks, the ambulances," Escobar told KTLA-TV. The issues date back more than a decade. A 2019 report showed that LAFD's equipment was even more outdated at the time, with 136 of 216 engines, or 63%, due for replacement, as well as 43 of 58 ladder trucks, or 74%. In a report from 2012, LAFD officials said they didn't have enough mechanics to keep up with the workload. 'Of paramount concern is the Department's aging and less reliable fleet, a growing backlog of deferred repairs, and increased maintenance expense,' the 2012 report said, adding that mechanics were primarily doing emergency repairs instead of preventative maintenance. LAFD's equipment and operations have been under heightened scrutiny since the Palisades fire erupted Jan. 7, destroying thousands of homes and killing 12 people, with many saying that officials were severely unprepared. A total of 18 firefighters are typically on duty at the two fire stations in the Palisades — Stations 23 and 69 — to respond to emergencies. Only 14 of them are routinely available to fight brush fires, The Times previously reported. The other four are assigned to ambulances at the two stations, although they might help with evacuations or rescues during fires. LAFD officials did not pre-deploy any engines to the Palisades ahead of the fire, despite warnings about extreme weather, a Times investigation found. In preparing for the winds, the department staffed only five of more than 40 engines available to supplement the regular firefighting force. Those working engines could have been pre-positioned in the Palisades and elsewhere, as had been done in the past during similar weather. Less than two months after the fire, Bass dismissed Crowley, citing the chief's pre-deployment decisions as one of the reasons. Bass has rejected the idea that there was any connection between reductions at the department and the city's response to the wildfires. Meanwhile, the number of mechanics on the job hasn't changed much in recent years, fluctuating between 64 and 74 since 2020, according to records released by the LAFD in January. As of this year, the agency had 71 mechanics. According to its report to the Fire Commission, the LAFD doesn't have enough mechanics to maintain and repair its fleet, based on the average number of hours the department said it takes to maintain a single vehicle. Last year, the report said, mechanics completed 31,331 of 32,317 work requests, or 97%. So far this year, they have completed 62%, according to the report. "With a greater number of mechanics, we can reduce the delays. However, a limited facility size, parts availability, and warranty repairs compound the issue," LAFD said in an unsigned email. Special correspondent Paul Pringle contributed to this report. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
FIXD Reviews: Is This OBD2 Scanner Worth Buying Or Just A Scam?
Atlanta, May 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --FIXD Reviews You've probably been there — you go in for a simple oil change, and suddenly the mechanic tells you your transmission needs replacing. Or your check engine light turns on, and what you thought would be a quick check turns into a laundry list of costly repairs. Unfortunately, many mechanics know it's easy to take advantage of people who are not familiar with what's going on under the hood. The truth is, when that check engine light comes on, it could mean thousands of different things — and for years, the only way to find out was to visit a mechanic who might not have your best interests in mind. But that's changing. Thanks to a smart new device called FIXD, you can now find out exactly what's wrong with your car — in plain, easy-to-understand language. It tells you how serious the issue is, whether it needs urgent attention, and helps you avoid unnecessary repairs. With FIXD, shady mechanics lose their advantage — and you stay in control. In this review, we will take a closer look at how FIXD works, what features it offers, who it is best for, and what real users are saying about it. We will also examine its pros, cons, pricing, and whether it is a smart investment for your vehicle needs. What Is FIXD? FIXD is a little sensor that connects to the OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) connector on your vehicle. Using a mobile app, you can scan your car's system for error codes and receive a diagnostic in layman's terms, allowing you to either attempt to repair the problem yourself or at the very least know what to expect before taking the car to a mechanic. It is simple to use and performs an excellent job diagnosing problems in your car. When you plug the Fixd into your automobile's On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) port, it grants you access to the vehicle's computerized self-diagnosis system. The Fixd is a smallish device that measures 1.9 by 1.6 by 0.8 inches (HWD). All automobiles built after 1996 are equipped with an OBD-II port, which is often found under the dashboard on the driver's side. This sensor is compatible with all gasoline-powered cars equipped with an OBD-II port; however, it is not compatible with cars made before 1996, nor is it compatible with cars powered by diesel engines or cars that are solely electric. It will, however, function on hybrid vehicles. The FIXD technology sends data from your car to a smartphone app, and if Fixd detects any issues, you may submit that information to your mechanic. Fixd is also a useful maintenance tool that may notify you when your vehicle needs MISS OUT: FIXD Is Available At A Special Price – Click Here To Order Directly From The Official Website Who Developed FIXD OBD2 Scanner? (FIXD Reviews) FIXD was invented and developed by three engineering students from Georgia Tech, Atlanta, USA. These three smart students were tired of seeing their family and friends stress out over car repairs and thus developed this new affordable device that instantly diagnoses your car's real problems for you and translates them into simple, easy-to-understand terms. These three engineering students from Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA, were displeased with the frustrations their parents and friends usually face over car breakdowns and repairs. They then came up with this game-changer called FIXD. They wanted their parents and friends to look at their smartphones and get a glimpse of what is wrong with their cars instead of going to the mechanic at the slightest breakdown. After successful testing and confirmation, they decided to bring Fixd to the notice of the public. Today, anyone with FIXD can look at their smartphone and instantly know: If there is a problem with their car How serious is it Whether it is an emergency And what it is going to cost With FIXD, the next time you need to take your car into the shop you are in control You can strut in there and confidently tell the mechanic exactly what needs to be done and how much you are going to pay for it! The bottom line is that FIXD gives everyone the information they need to take control of their own car and avoid paying too much or getting repairs they do not And Benefits Of FIXD(FIXD Sensor Reviews) Detects A Wide Range Of Issues: Because of the wide range of issues that FIXD can detect in your vehicle, it is the most important feature and reason to utilize it. According to the manufacturer, FIXD can detect and identify more than 6,000 issues, which include both minor issues that can be handled at home and serious repairs that require professional assistance to do properly. It also claims to be able to tell you straight up whether or not you should hire a mechanic to do the task. If your oxygen sensor has failed, or if your oil temperature has reached a dangerous level, the tool can advise you when you need to tighten your gas cap or replace your oxygen sensor. Once you have identified and resolved the issue, the app will allow you to turn off the dash light as well. Estimates Of The Cost Of Repair: Have you ever been in a car accident and found yourself in need of repair services? Your insurer will most likely recommend a couple of businesses that you may use, but they will also recommend that you acquire estimates from a few other repairers as well. This can take a significant amount of time and leave you feeling disappointed in what those stores mentioned. This aspect of FIXD's app is particularly useful, as it truly offers you with estimates depending on your current zip code or area. Not only does the app tell you how much you could expect to pay for the items you require, but it also tells you how much you might expect to pay to the mechanic in your neighborhood to work on those issues. Highly Affordable: These days, several stores provide free diagnostic scans to customers. This is in the hopes that you will come in for your free scan and be so grateful that you will agree to pay for expensive repairs right there on the spot. Some auto parts stores also provide free scans since they anticipate that you will purchase the parts that you require from them in the future. Free scans, on the other hand, will frequently necessitate waiting in line and dealing with pushy sales personnel. FIXD allows you the flexibility to perform your own scans at your convenience whenever you need. It sells its diagnostic combo for roughly $60, and it also has a bundle that includes two scanners for less than $100 dollars. Provides Support For Android and iOS Devices: One key issue with other scanning apps is that some of them are only compatible with a specific sort of operating system. If you are currently using an Android or an iPhone, but anticipate that you may want to switch in the future, FIXD is a smart choice for you because it is compatible with both of these platforms. In addition to its tools, the company provides free apps that may be downloaded from the Google Play Store or the Apple Store to be used in conjunction with them. Once you have created an account, you will be able to access it even if you switch phones in the future. Monitoring On A Continuous Basis: Another aspect that distinguishes FIXED from the competition is the fact that it provides constant monitoring services. How many times have you had your check engine light come on and then turn off on its own when you were driving over a pothole in the road? This is frequently caused by a snag in the engine wiring. Those potholes on the road can momentarily alleviate the situation until you reach another pothole. FIXD will do the scan that you require and will then continue to monitor your vehicle until the tool is unplugged. Any subsequent issues that are discovered by the app will be instantly reported to you by the application. Guaranteed Return of Funds: FIXD provides a guarantee that, in essence, states that the company is not satisfied unless you are satisfied. The product can be tried for up to 30 days after you purchase it online from the official website through the links provided in this Fixd Review. If you decide that you are not satisfied with your purchase, you have 30 days to return it for a full refund. In this method, you can ensure that the tool not only works with your specific make and model, but also that it will give the information that you require. It is possible that you will prefer a diagnostic tool that is capable of monitoring and scanning many parameters. One Account for a Number of Vehicles: It is likely that you have used a diagnostic scanning tool and app in the past and discovered that you could only use that account in a single vehicle. While FIXD mandates that you use a single sensor per vehicle, it allows you to utilize a single account to monitor any additional scanners that you may be using. Consider the following scenario: you typically drive one automobile, but your spouse and child have their own vehicles. You can purchase and install scanning instruments in each vehicle, and then execute scans on each vehicle using an app on your phone. In addition, you can use the same app to set up reminders for any future maintenance that those vehicles may require. How Does FIXD Work? In most cases, when the check engine light illuminates, it means that the system has detected an issue, such as an incorrect cylinder, a faulty mass airflow or oxygen sensor, or a gasoline vapor leak. Mechanical engineers use the code generated by the on-board computer to troubleshoot and resolve the issue, which is why you will find them at work staring at a handheld screen while the engine is running. Now with FIXD, you can view what the mechanic sees, and it can recognize up to 6,800 different possible causes of a check engine light to come on. It also provides a description of the probable cause, as well as the standard error code and any implications that may result if the problem is not remedied immediately. Unlike other sensors, the Fixd sensor draws its power from the OBD-II port, so you never have to worry about having to charge it. Once plugged in, you can forget about it. Alternatively, you may remove it and use it on any other gas-powered car that has an OBD-II port. It talks with your phone via Bluetooth and is controlled by a free Android or iOS mobile application. The app establishes a connection with the Fixd servers via cellular or Wi-Fi in order to retrieve diagnostic data and preserve the findings of your car's scan. A Condition screen appears, with a large Tap To Scan button in the center and a small engine icon button just above it. It is easy to navigate through. The buttons for the Timeline, Wear Items, and Logbook are located at the bottom of the screen, as is a button that returns you to the Condition screen. To initiate a scan, press the Tap To Scan button on your screen: A green Fixd icon will appear if no problems are detected; if moderate issues such as a faulty EVAP sensor are discovered, the icon will change yellow; and if more severe issues such as a misfire or a broken EGR Vacuum regulator are discovered, the icon will turn red. Upon detection of a problem, press the Details icon to see the diagnosis, which includes a brief description of the problem as well as probable implications if the problem is not SEE: CLICK HERE NOW TO GET FIXD SCANNER DIRECTLY FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT A DISCOUNTED PRICE Why Choose FIXD? (FIXD Scanner Reviews) Fixd is not the only device available on the market that can monitor the health of your vehicle. However, Fixd has a lot to teach you, and you might be amazed at how much you can learn from it. According to the manufacturer, the sensor can detect 6,800 problems with your vehicle that could cause the check-engine light to turn on. A key advantage of the Fixd sensor appears to be its retail availability at some of the world's largest shops, which is something that not all of its competitors can match. Furthermore, Fixd's app is often regarded as one of the most well-designed tools available in the sector. Although Fixd does not specify all of the things that its app can detect, it claims that it can detect critical issues such as whether your engine oil temperature is too high or whether your O2 sensor has failed. It can also notify you if your automobile has more serious problems that need to be addressed by a repair. Additionally, the app allows you to clear your check-engine light if you conclude that the issue it has detected is not serious. Other dashboard lights, such as TPMS, ABS, Airbag, Maintenance, and Stability Control, can also be cleared with Fixd. Fixd can also keep track of your vehicle's maintenance routine. When you insert the sensor into your car, it will figure out what your car's manufacturer suggests for maintenance at each milestone and notify you. Fixd keeps track of your miles so you always know what you need to do. According to the company, Fixd distinguishes itself from the competition by breaking down difficulties into basic and clear words. Instead of providing you with a code or technical description, the gadget informs you of the severity of the problem, the repercussions of continuing to drive, and the recommended maintenance schedule for your specific make, model, and year of vehicle. Is FIXD Any Good? Because of the amount of money we spend on our vehicles, it is then critical that they remain in good condition. Your check engine light may turn on as a result of something as simple as a loose wire in the motor, and it may remain illuminated for several weeks. There is no assurance that the light was illuminated as a result of anything as simple as a faulty bulb, which is why having a diagnostic scanning tool such as FIXD is so beneficial. FIXD comes with a sensor that can be plugged in and configured in seconds, as well as an app that works in conjunction with the sensor. The FIXD sensor does not require any additional charging or replacement batteries. The power generated by your engine is sufficient to meet all of its requirements. Because the FIXD sensor and your phone communicate over Bluetooth, you have full access to the app as long as you have a working connection. Once you have downloaded the app, you will be required to register an account with FIXD. If you later upgrade to a better phone, you will be able to log in with your existing information and obtain access to your account once more. How To Install FIXD Sensor Using FIXD is refreshingly simple — even if you have zero experience with cars. It works in just three steps: Plug It In: Insert the FIXD sensor into your car's OBD-II port, which is usually located just beneath the steering wheel. Pair It With Your Phone: Connect the sensor via Bluetooth to the free FIXD mobile app (available on iPhone and Android). Get Instant Alerts: As soon as it runs a scan, the app sends notifications to your phone explaining what's wrong, how serious it is, and what action to take. FIXD inspects over 6,000+ potential issues, from simple sensor problems to more serious mechanical faults. Each diagnosis comes with clear, easy-to-understand language — so you're not stuck Googling obscure engine codes or relying blindly on what a mechanic tells vs. Visiting the Mechanic First(FIXD OBD II Scanner Reviews) Visiting a mechanic without knowing what's wrong can leave you feeling powerless — and worse, overcharged. FIXD flips the script by giving you a clear picture of your car's health before you even leave your driveway. By diagnosing problems upfront, FIXD allows you to: • Understand the severity of the issue • Know whether it's safe to keep driving • Avoid paying for unnecessary or inflated repairs • Communicate more confidently with your mechanic That said, FIXD isn't meant to replace mechanics altogether. For serious or unclear issues, it's still wise to get a professional diagnosis — but FIXD helps you enter that conversation informed, not vulnerable. DON'T MISS OUT: FIXD OBD2 Scanner Is Available At A Special Price – Click Here To Order Directly From The Official WebsiteFIXD Reviews Consumer Reports and Complaints Some Fixd users left positive reviews on their website, praising the ease with which they were able to connect the sensor to their automobile and retrieve the information displayed by the Fixd app. These great customer opinions are presented below: 'FIXD works perfectly! We got the 2 sensors deal, so my wife and I could decipher that dreaded check-engine light. Although we ran into a few installation issues; thanks to timely, excellent and extraordinary technical support from Casey and Davis at FIXD, those issues quickly became a thing of the past. In summary, these guys are the bomb! I highly recommend FIXD." (Michael P.) "FIXD saved me from being stranded. This is one of my favorite gadgets of all time. No more going to a shop to get the check engine codes checked and interpreted by someone else. It also alerted me while I was driving that I had two new codes. I drove immediately to the place I intended to get it repaired and the mechanic told me if I hadn't brought it in when I did, I might have to pay for much more costly repairs and my car would break down on me. The app is also constantly being updated and made better. No complaints there either." (Dona) "Finally, a product worth the Money! We bought 3 of them so we could monitor the wife's and daughter's car even when they are not at home. What a great product and well worth the money!! About time that someone used their head to market a product that is not only useful but gives the dad peace of mind and help with service reminders as well!!! Great job, guys!!!" (April McKee) "Helps Alleviate "Check Engine" Light Stress. Very helpful when the "Check Engine" light comes on... especially in older vehicles that don't give more active descriptions. Provides code numbers/info and offers advice as to whether the vehicle is safe to drive or should be towed in for repairs to avoid damage. Can also be used to monitor some engine functions routinely, rather than just when engine light illuminates. More advice is also available, such as repair estimates, recommended providers, etc." (James) FIXD Pros and Cons Here's a balanced look at what FIXD does well — and what to consider before buying: Pros (FIXD Reviews) Easy to set up and use — no tech skills required Explains car issues in plain English Diagnoses 6,000+ problems and flags severity Tracks multiple cars through one app Sends reminders for routine maintenance (like oil changes) One-time purchase, unlimited uses Works with most gas cars (1996+) and diesel (2008+) Compact, portable, and no subscription required Cons (FIXD Reviews) Doesn't replace a full mechanic inspection for complex or uncommon issues Requires Bluetooth + mobile app pairing (not ideal for those without smartphones) Some very advanced diagnostics may still need a professional scan tool Price of FIXD Scanner - How Much Does FIXD Cost? Frankly, Diagnostic Technology usually costs $800, $1,200, even $2,000 or more and is usually only found in professional Autos hops. That is costly, right? Yeah! But that is what makes this Fixd so great. FIXD is ONLY $59.99! That is less than a tank of gas and you can purchase it on their official website here. FIXD is currently available with special bundle pricing and free shipping on select orders. Here's the latest offer from the official website: 1 FIXD Device – $59.99 (Save $10 off retail) 2 FIXD Devices – $89.99 (Buy 1, Get 1 50% OFF) 3 FIXD Devices – $119.98 (Buy 2, Get 1 FREE) Free Shipping included on orders of 2 or more Each purchase includes unlimited uses, lifetime access to the FIXD app, and a 30-day risk-free money-back guarantee. Where To Buy FIXD? On the internet and even offline market, there are many persons selling FIXD. However, you are advised to only purchase FIXD from the official website of the manufacturer through the links provided in this FIXD review article. Getting this product from another website or seller means that you want to be given a fake. Avoid buying FIXD through third-party marketplaces, as unofficial listings may be outdated, unsupported, or counterfeit. You can pay through PayPal, Mastercard, Visa, etc on the official website and enjoy the best discount and other promotional offers available. Purchasing from other stores may disqualify you for these awesome offers. CLICK HERE NOW TO BUY FIXD DIRECTLY FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT A DISCOUNTED PRICE Frequently Asked Questions (FIXD OBD2 Scanner Reviews)How Does FIXD Connect To My Phone? FIXD syncs data wirelessly and automatically to your smartphone through bluetooth when in your vehicle. Will the sensor interfere with other Bluetooth devices in my car? No, your smartphone will allow you to pair and communicate with multiple Bluetooth receivers at one time. Will FIXD Work With My Car? FIXD works on all gas and hybrid-powered cars built in 1996 and after, and every diesel vehicle built in 2009 and after. FIXD also runs on all gas-powered trucks that were purchased in the US and have a gross vehicle weight under 14,500 lbs. Where is this port in my car? In the vast majority of cars, it is on the driver side under the dashboard, just above the pedals. If you have difficulty finding the port in your car, contact us at fixd-contactus@ Can I leave FIXD in my car all the time? You can leave the sensor plugged in all the time, as it uses very little power when not communicating with the app. If you leave your car sitting for more than 3 weeks, we recommend that you remove the sensor. My family has vehicles all over the country. Do I have to be near a vehicle to use FIXD? As long as there is a person with the car running the FIXD App, you can see the status and details of that car through our Multi-Vehicle Control feature. Does FIXD Work With Windows Phones? There currently is no plan for Windows Phone, but if you contact us, we will keep you updated. Does The FIXD Device Need To Be Charged? No. The FIXD device uses vehicle energy to stay charged and uses a low-energy mode, so it won't drain your battery. Is There A Money-Back Guarantee? Yes. Every device sold comes with a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. Is There A Warranty? Yes. Every device sold comes with a 1 year limited warranty. Will I have to pay any additional customs, duties or VAT fees when I receive my order? Depending on your country, it is possible that you will be charged one or more of these fees when you receive your order. How long does delivery take to countries outside of the U.S.? We ship orders out FAST, but we can't control carrier transit times. For orders outside the USA, please allow 7-12 business days for your order to arrive. Delivery times will vary based on Verdict On FIXD Reviews The FIXD diagnostic scanner is a fantastic tool for folks who want to take good care of their automobiles and do minor repairs at their convenience. The reason for your check engine light to turn on could be that you need to tighten your gas cap or replace a few spark plugs, both of which are simple repairs that you can perform yourself. FIXD will perform a complete scan and inform you of what needs to be done, allowing you to decide whether or not to take your car to a shop. It is simple enough to use at home to diagnose engine problems for those who are just getting started. FIXD gives information that is simple to comprehend and is a tool that everyone may utilize. You do not have to be an expert computer user or have the most up-to-date smartphone on the market in order to make use of it. You can also download the app to a tablet running the Android or iOS operating systems and get all of the information you require. It takes only a few seconds to plug in the FIXD scanner and a few more minutes to download and set up the app, which is available for free. Doing a scan can be done while standing directly next to your car or while sitting inside your house. A scan can be carried out as long as there is a connection between the app and the tool in question. The FIXD app will be a godsend if you are bored of your check engine light on your dashboard glowing or blinking at you every time you step behind the wheel. It is highly recommended that you get your own FIXD. Enjoy! CLICK HERE NOW TO GET FIXD DIRECTLY FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT A DISCOUNTED PRICEContent verified and submitted by (support@ CONTACT: Website - Email - support@ address - 999 Peachtree St NE Suite 840, Atlanta, GA 30309Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
The Sun
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Car repair expert reveals affordable part that's a ‘game-changer' for hay fever sufferers – costing as little as £10
HAY FEVER season is here, and Brits with stuffy noses are feeling the strain – whether they're at home or on the go in their cars. Sneezing while driving can be especially uncomfortable and, more importantly, hazardous. 3 3 3 But according to an expert, a key car component that many motorists are unaware of could be the cause of heightened discomfort while driving during the summer months. A recent poll by FixMyCar revealed that more than 50% of mechanics reported that over half of the cars they service have not undergone a full service in over a year. And this often means that the pollen filter is no longer effective. Speaking exclusively to Sun Motors, Matt Wrankmore, Head of Garage Network at FixMyCar, explains that this simple car part can help alleviate hay fever symptoms while driving. He said: 'Most modern vehicles are fitted with a pollen filter, also known as a cabin air filter. Its job is to trap pollen, dust, and other allergens, making the air inside your vehicle clean and breathable - a godsend for anyone suffering from hay fever. 'However, problems arise when the filter is not replaced regularly. Like any filter, it becomes dirty and clogged over time, ceasing to function effectively. Instead of filtering the air, it allows pollen and allergens to enter the car directly. 'A clogged pollen filter not only exacerbates hay fever symptoms but can also impact airflow, affecting the car's heating and cooling systems.' FILTER FAIL Having a full service every 12 months is likely to ensure the pollen filter is replaced, as this is typically included in a full service. However, it's important to note that a pollen filter replacement is not part of an interim service. FixMyCar's latest poll highlighted confusion around car servicing, which may cause many drivers to miss this crucial maintenance and suffer unnecessarily during hay fever season. Change your car air filter and have your A/C checked if you suffer from hayfever When asked if they knew when a mechanic would replace their pollen filter, FixMyCar found that only 22% of drivers were aware. In fact, 30% of drivers believed pollen filters are replaced during both full and interim services, while 20% thought replacement was not included in any service at all. A further 22% admitted they did not know when a mechanic would change the filter. FixMyCar spoke to 55 garages on its network, asking how many cars they see each month that have not had a full service in over a year. Alarmingly, over half of these garages - a figure of 58% - reported that more than half of the cars they service monthly had not undergone a full service in over 12 months. Even more concerning, 1 in 5 mechanics said that over three-quarters of the cars they see have not been fully serviced in over a year. Wrankmore said: 'My recommendation to hay fever sufferers this year is to ensure your car has a full service if it hasn't had one in the past year. Not only will this help alleviate your hay fever symptoms while driving, but regular servicing is also vital for the overall health of your car. 'If the cost of maintenance is a concern and you opt for an interim service, but still want relief from hay fever, you can book a simple pollen filter replacement. "Pollen filters are inexpensive but invaluable for hay fever sufferers. 'With a new pollen filter installed, keep your windows closed, switch on air recirculation, and enjoy a symptom-free journey. Just remember to replace the filter every 12 months or 15,000 miles.' DO IT YOURSELF For penny-pinching Brits, changing a pollen filter in a car yourself is both easy and affordable, with a standard filter typically costing around £10. A carbon filter, which helps with odours, may cost around £20, while online prices for cabin air filters generally range between £11 and £30, depending on the make and model. Better yet, no special tools are needed for the job - although occasionally a screwdriver or socket set might be necessary. The pollen filter is typically found under the bonnet in a cold air collector box, or inside the car - possibly behind the glove compartment or in the passenger footwell.
CBC
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- CBC
Manitoba rancher has beef with shops that won't repair stolen truck
Clint Sigurdson learned the hard way that finding a shop to handle an MPI theft claim and make the repairs is a slow and often frustrating process. Some repair shops refuse to take these jobs altogether, citing red tape, safety concerns and poor compensation, says one mechanic.
