Dane Donovan tackles a variety of car-related questions from listeners, offering practical advice on issues ranging from misfires to electrical problems. A standout moment includes a detailed discussion with a caller about diagnosing a 2000 Silverado's knock sensors and misfire codes. Dane emphasizes the importance of proper diagnostics and maintenance, encouraging listeners to clean throttle bodies and mass airflow sensors. He also shares insights on the impact of upcoming elections on consumer spending in the automotive market, creating a relatable connection with his audience.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a large truck that's great for carrying heavy loads. The 2000 version is known for being tough and reliable, making it a popular choice for work and everyday use.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and performance. The 2000 model year is part of the GMT800 generation, which is popular for its strong towing capabilities and a variety of engine options.
Knock sensors are parts of the engine that listen for unusual sounds that can mean the engine is running poorly. They help fix problems by telling the engine to adjust how it runs.
Knock sensors are components in an engine that detect knocking or pinging sounds caused by premature combustion. They help the engine control module adjust the ignition timing to prevent engine damage.
5.3 liter means the size of the engine in the truck. Bigger engines usually have more power, which helps with towing and carrying heavy loads.
The 5.3 liter refers to the engine displacement, indicating the total volume of all the cylinders in the engine. It is a common engine size for the Chevy Silverado, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
"...And I bought the GEM replacement, you know, the genuine parts. And the other way to test it is to..."
GEM replacement parts are original parts made by the same company that built your car. They are often considered more reliable than generic parts.
GEM stands for Genuine Equipment Manufacturer, referring to replacement parts that are made by the original manufacturer of the vehicle. These parts are typically designed to meet the same specifications as the original components.
"...they should emit a AC signal, electrical signal when you knock on it because there's a diode or some type of crystal in there."
An AC signal is a type of electrical signal that can change direction. Knock sensors use this signal to show they are working when they detect vibrations from the engine.
An AC (alternating current) signal is an electrical signal that changes direction periodically. In the context of knock sensors, it indicates that the sensor is functioning properly by producing a signal in response to vibrations.
"What about the fuel filter? Have you replaced that? Yep. I've replaced that a couple times, and I just did it recently."
The fuel filter cleans the fuel that goes into your engine, making sure it's free of dirt and debris. Changing it regularly helps your car run better.
A fuel filter is a critical component in a vehicle's fuel system that removes contaminants from the fuel before it reaches the engine. Regular replacement of the fuel filter is essential for maintaining engine performance and preventing damage.
"And then did you test the fuel pump pressure to make sure that you have plenty of fuel pump pressure? Yep. I read that online, too, to check it."
The fuel pump sends gas from the tank to the engine. If it doesn't work properly, your car might not start or could run poorly.
The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine at the correct pressure. If the fuel pump fails, it can lead to poor engine performance or even prevent the engine from starting.
"The service engine light will come on. I can drive it around town all day for a week and nothing."
The service engine light is a warning light on your car's dashboard. It means there might be a problem with the engine or emissions system that needs to be checked.
The service engine light, also known as the check engine light, is an indicator on the dashboard that alerts the driver to potential issues with the vehicle's engine or emissions system. It can signify a range of problems, from minor issues to serious engine malfunctions.
"So, you said you replaced the plugs and you replaced the wires."
Spark plugs are small parts that create a spark to help start the engine. If they are old or damaged, the engine might not run smoothly.
Spark plugs are devices that ignite the air-fuel mixture in an engine's cylinders by creating a spark. They play a crucial role in engine performance, and worn or faulty spark plugs can lead to misfires and reduced power.
"So, you said you replaced the plugs and you replaced the wires."
Wires in this context are the connections that send electricity from the coils to the spark plugs. If they are broken or worn out, the engine may not start or run well.
Wires, specifically ignition wires, connect the ignition coils to the spark plugs. They carry the electrical current needed to create a spark for ignition. Damaged or worn wires can lead to misfires and poor engine performance.
Coils are parts of the car's ignition system that help start the engine by creating a spark. If they're not working well, the engine can misfire and lose power.
Coils, or ignition coils, are essential components in an ignition system that convert the battery's low voltage into the high voltage needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders. Replacing faulty coils can resolve misfire issues and improve engine performance.
PO 300 is a code that tells you there's a problem with the engine not firing correctly. It means that one or more cylinders are misfiring, which can make your car run poorly.
PO 300 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicating a random or multiple cylinder misfire detected by the engine control unit. This code suggests that the engine is not firing properly in one or more cylinders, which can lead to a lack of power and increased emissions.
"And again, that can be caused by an injector or multiple injectors not doing what they're supposed to do."
An injector is a part of the engine that sprays fuel into it so that it can mix with air and burn to create power. If it's not working well, the engine might not run properly.
An injector is a component in an internal combustion engine that delivers fuel into the combustion chamber. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the engine runs efficiently and effectively.
"What about the mass airflow sensor? Have you cleaned it or checked it or replaced it?"
The mass airflow sensor helps your car's engine know how much air is coming in so it can mix the right amount of fuel. If it's not working right, your car might not run well.
The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine, which is crucial for the engine control unit to optimize fuel injection and ignition timing. If it's malfunctioning, it can lead to poor engine performance and fuel efficiency.
"I got a 2007 Saturn Ion. I went to a local parts place..."
The Saturn Ion is a small car made by the Saturn brand, which was known for being affordable and practical. It was sold from 2003 to 2007.
The Saturn Ion is a compact car produced by Saturn from 2003 to 2007. It was known for its affordability and practicality, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.
A misfire happens when an engine's cylinder doesn't work correctly, which can make the car run poorly. This can be due to problems like bad spark plugs or fuel issues.
A misfire occurs when one or more cylinders in an engine fail to fire properly, leading to a loss of power and efficiency. It can be caused by issues such as faulty spark plugs, fuel delivery problems, or ignition system failures.
"I've taken all of the coil over out. Now, I know the plugs are bad."
Coilovers are special parts of a car's suspension that help it handle better on the road. They can be adjusted to change how high or low the car sits, which can make it drive smoother or more sporty.
Coilovers are a type of suspension system that combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into a single unit. They allow for adjustable ride height and can improve handling and performance by providing better control over the vehicle's suspension.
"So if it's a needle point like that, that is a platinum plug. So it's what you've had, the flat point that you had, that you talked about gap or whatnot."
A platinum plug is a special kind of spark plug that lasts longer than regular ones. It uses platinum, which helps it work better and last more miles before needing to be changed.
A platinum plug refers to a type of spark plug that uses platinum as a material for the electrode. Platinum plugs are known for their durability and longevity compared to standard copper plugs, often lasting longer between replacements.
"So you need a valve cover gasket. The valve cover is leaking oil."
A valve cover gasket is a rubber or silicone seal that keeps oil from leaking out of the engine. If it breaks, oil can drip out and cause problems.
The valve cover gasket is a seal that sits between the valve cover and the engine block, preventing oil leaks. If it fails, oil can leak out, leading to potential engine damage and performance issues.
"So you got those spark plug tube seals. So you got a valve cover."
Spark plug tube seals are small rubber rings that keep oil from getting into the parts where the spark plugs are. If they wear out, oil can leak in and cause the engine to run poorly.
Spark plug tube seals are rubber seals that prevent oil from entering the spark plug tubes. When they fail, oil can leak into the tubes, causing misfires and other engine performance issues.
"the ignition coil is what sends spark to the spark plug. Okay. Years ago, you would have a distributor and one coil..."
An ignition coil helps start the engine by sending electricity to the spark plug, which creates a spark to ignite the fuel. It's an important part of how the engine works.
An ignition coil is a crucial component in an internal combustion engine that transforms the battery's low voltage into the high voltage needed to create a spark at the spark plug, igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders.
"Well, I got a 06 Dodge Dakota 3.7 liter little V6. I'm just over 200,000 on it."
The Dodge Dakota is a type of pickup truck made by Dodge. The 2006 version is known for being useful for carrying things and driving on different types of roads.
The Dodge Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck that was produced by Dodge. The 2006 model is part of the second generation, known for its versatility and capability as a work truck.
"...3.7 liter little V6. I'm just over 200,000 on it."
A V6 engine is a type of engine that has six cylinders arranged in a V shape. It's known for providing a good mix of power and fuel efficiency.
A V6 engine is a six-cylinder engine with the cylinders arranged in a V configuration. It offers a balance of power and efficiency, making it popular in many vehicles, including trucks like the Dodge Dakota.
"...maybe I just need to do a tune up and, you know, kind of like what the other gentleman was talking about do that, you know, change out my plugs and my coils..."
A tune-up is when you do maintenance on your car to make sure it runs well. This usually includes changing parts like spark plugs and checking other important parts of the engine.
A tune-up is a maintenance procedure that typically involves replacing spark plugs, checking and adjusting ignition timing, and inspecting other engine components to ensure optimal performance. It's often performed on older vehicles to restore engine efficiency.
"...have you cleaned the throttle body? No, I haven't actually physically taken it off. So same thing, maybe just take it with a good dousing."
The throttle body helps control how much air goes into the engine, which affects how much power the engine can produce. It's important for the engine's performance.
The throttle body is a crucial component in an internal combustion engine that controls the amount of air entering the engine. It plays a key role in regulating engine power and efficiency.
Drive by wire means that instead of using a cable to connect the gas pedal to the engine, it uses electronic signals. This can make the car respond better and save fuel.
Drive by wire is a technology that replaces traditional mechanical linkages between the accelerator pedal and the throttle with electronic controls. This allows for more precise control of engine performance and can improve fuel efficiency.
"...throttle plate cleaner and mass airflow sensor cleaner."
Throttle plate cleaner is a spray that helps clean a part of the engine that controls how much air goes in. Cleaning it helps the engine work better and respond faster.
Throttle plate cleaner is a cleaning product used to remove carbon buildup and grime from the throttle body, which controls the amount of air entering the engine. Regular cleaning can help maintain engine performance and responsiveness.
Select text to request an explanation
This year, get her the gift she really wants.
Get her a garage door.
Specifically, a garage door where she doesn't throw her back out
every time she has to open the thing.
And if you do, go to my friends at All About Garage Doors.
All About Garage Doors are a three-generation family-owned
and operated business.
All About Garage Doors will happily come out
and give you a free estimate.
And if your garage door is one that has trouble opening,
falls off the tracks, All About Garage Doors
is offering $180 winter tune-up special.
So if you're looking for a new garage door,
go to the top dog in the industry.
All About Garage Doors.
The Pacific Northwest has been hit hard
by heavy rains and flooding.
If water is finding its way into your basement or crawl space,
Terraferma has the solution.
Proven waterproofing systems protect your home
from water intrusion and the costly damage associated,
giving you peace of mind through every storm.
Call Terraferma or visit goterraferma.com
to schedule your free evaluation
to keep your home safe, dry, and stable.
That's goterraferma.com.
They're finally here.
Brand new, flexible, light industrial suites
at Spencer Creek Station are officially open
and ready for lease now at the Port of Calama,
starting at 2,300 square feet.
Put your business in the perfect spot,
right off I-5, 30 minutes to PDX
and adjacent to the beautiful Columbia River.
Spaces are moving fast.
Lock in yours today and watch your company
take off in Calama.
Get all of the details at portofcalama.com
or call 360-673-2325.
Spencer Creek Station, open today, built for your tomorrow.
For 100 years, Salem's Elsinore Theatre
has been the stage for unforgettable nights,
music that moves you,
comedy that makes you laugh until it hurts,
performances that spark conversation.
The Elsinore has attracted vast audiences
bringing outstanding live entertainment
to the community and created lifelong memories.
Yours is next.
Step inside and make your own memory
in a theater as beautiful as the experience itself.
See what's coming next at elsinoretheatre.com.
That's elsinoretheatre.com.
Burn up that corner, boy!
On the road again, just can't wait to get on the road again.
Life is a highway, I won't ride it all night long.
You'll have fun, fun, fun till you get it, take some tea, girl.
Fun, fun, fun till you get it, take some tea, girl.
Good afternoon and welcome to Car Show.
I'm Dane Donovan, taking all of your car questions,
the number to call, 513-749-5500.
That number again, 513-749-5500.
The phone lines are wide open, so I'd love to hear from you.
It is a... it's a almost perfect...
I mean, I shouldn't say almost.
It is an actually perfect day.
I mean, it's going to be sunny in 75.
You can't go wrong with it. No humidity.
I mean, we don't get many days like this.
And it's nice to enjoy it.
My son had a soccer game this morning at 11.
My middle son has a football game at 12.30,
which I'm kind of missing right now.
But then we've got the football game tomorrow.
So busy weekend in sports, as usual, in my household.
But do enjoy it.
And so...
But again, the number to call, 513-749-5500.
Listen, it was... it was another busy week.
Had... but things are a little soft.
And I think...
And, you know, I've been doing this a long time.
But, you know, every time...
Right up to an election, you start to see people kind of...
I shouldn't say no, but they don't say yes to everything, right?
So you call them up, tell them what they need.
And, you know, let's just do what I have to do right now.
And, you know, I mean, I get it.
A lot of people don't understand, you know,
they're concerned about making any type of big purchases
or financial decisions until the election happens.
But unfortunately, even whoever gets in doesn't matter.
You're still going to need your car to get to work, right?
So it was... but, you know, it's just weird.
It happens every time.
And, you know, some of the guys are like,
well, what's going on?
It's just like, man, people just...
They just get a little bit finicky when it comes to
making major purchases or spending any type of money
until the election comes up.
And I know that's coming up really quickly.
So I should pick back up,
especially if we start getting some colder temperatures.
But so...
All right, let's go back.
Let's go to the phones.
We've got Russ.
Hey, Russ. Welcome to the car show.
How can I help?
Hey, I got a 2000 Silverado 5.3 engine in it.
And I replaced the knock sensors.
OK.
And question.
And I had the message for the knock sensor.
So I went ahead and did that, pulled the manifold,
replaced them.
And I don't get the message anymore.
I cleared the message.
However, it doesn't seem...
Now, I've been on other websites
looking...
It looks like you have to...
Two ways to test it with the...
You get your ohms reading, which mind check, fine.
However, when you knock on the manifold,
it does not change anything.
And what I've read is it should do that.
So that's my question is,
do I need to replace them again?
OK, so what it says here is, what year?
It says Chevy Silverado, what year is it?
2000, 5.3 V8.
OK, and you were getting it.
Was it a check engine light that was coming on
and saying that the knock sensor was coding?
Yes.
OK.
And was there one or two underneath there?
There's two.
OK.
And you replaced both?
What about the harness?
Yes, I replaced that also.
OK, all right, good, good, good, good.
Man, I can't remember ever...
I can't remember off the top of my head
ever having to replace a knock sensor on a Chevy Silverado.
Is it a 5.3 liter?
Correct, yes.
All right.
So, OK, so you owned it out.
Everything's good, test good there,
but you're saying that did you put the intake back on?
Like put everything back together?
Yes, yes, it runs and it runs pretty good,
but it doesn't have the power.
It doesn't act like the knock sensors are doing anything.
So, I've read where if you knock on the engine,
to mimic an engine knock, it should retard the timing,
which mine doesn't have any effect.
I can knock on them all I want with a screwdriver or a hammer
or anything on the manifold next,
you know, as close I can get to the knock sensor
to change on anything.
I have...
To be honest with you, I've never had...
I've never heard that.
Where did you see that?
Did you see that online about knocking on the intake?
Yes, so, huh?
I've never heard that method.
I don't...
Man, that's a great question.
I've never heard of anybody actually physically knocking
on the intake to cause that thing.
But anyways, you're still after replacement.
The message is gone, but you still have a lack of power?
Yes.
OK, I mean, is it like when you're getting on the highway?
When you experience it, is it going up inclines?
When are you experiencing the lack of power?
Or is it just all the time?
On the interstate, I won't get any messages,
except when I get on the interstate,
probably about 30 miles into it.
And if I pull a long constant grade,
it seems like it downshifts a lot more, you know,
when it shouldn't be.
And that's when you'll get this service engine right now.
So I read it on YouTube,
and they said there's two things to test the knock sensors.
And one was the resistance, which mine are fine.
And I bought the GEM replacement, you know, the genuine parts.
And the other way to test it is to...
And they say you don't even need it in the car.
Of course, I didn't take it out of the car and check it.
But they say they should emit a AC signal,
electrical signal when you knock on it
because there's a diode or some type of crystal in there.
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark.
Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.
