Author Archives: Bob Thomas

About Bob Thomas

Bob Thomas is an automotive mechanic with 30 plus years experience. He is a contributor to several publications and has written many articles on automotive maintenance and repairs. He also has created many auto repair videos on YouTube.

Privacy Policy www.backyardmechanic.org

Privacy Policy: UPDATED: 3-03-2022 We have created this privacy statement for https://www.backyardmechanic.org in order to demonstrate our firm and continuing commitment to the privacy of personal information provided by those visiting and interacting with https://www.backyardmechanic.org. We hold the privacy of your personal information in the highest regard. The following discloses our information gathering and dissemination… Read More »

How to Change Your Car Air Filter

Replacing the air filter on a car is usually a simple procedure and can be done by almost any home do-it-yourself type of person. What is a Car Air Filter? All combustible engines need to air fed into the intake for combustion to happen. If the air fed into the intake is dirty, it can… Read More »

Our Picks for Best Auto Body Books

Having a good book on auto body repair can go a long way to learn not only how to do automotive body repair but also tips and tricks. Online resources are great also but oftentimes can skip steps. A good book will guide you through the entire process from start to finish. Our Picks for… Read More »

How to Replace Headlight Bulb 2004–2009 Toyota Sienna

Replacing the headlight bulb on a “>2003–2009 Toyota Sienna is an easy task that falls in the DIY category. There are two bulbs located in the headlight assembly called Low-beam and High-beam. Both bulbs are located behind the headlight assembly and replaced the same way. Below are the steps with screenshots to replace them; as… Read More »

How to Replace Headlight Bulb 2015-2016 Toyota Corolla

The 2015-2016 Toyota Corolla’s are equipped with LED lights that are compact projector lights. The only way to replace the Low-Beam bulb is by replacing the headlight assembly. The High-Beam and the Turn Signal are much easier to replace. Replacing the headlight assembly for a Low-Beam headlight bulb sounded crazy when I first heard this,… Read More »

How to Replace Headlight Bulb 1997–2002 Toyota Sienna

Replacing the headlight bulb on a 1997–2002 Toyota Sienna is an easy task that falls in the DIY category. Below are the steps with screenshots to it; as always, if in doubt, take your vehicle to a professional. Headlight Bulb Type 1997–2002 Toyota Sienna H4 High/Low Beam Headlight Bulb No tools are needed when replacing… Read More »

How to Replace Headlight Bulbs 1999-2006 GMC Sierra

If you have a bad headlight bulb in a 1999-2006 GMC Sierra, they are an easy component to replace. Many home DIY type individuals replace the headlight bulb themselves but of course, if in doubt, be sure to take your vehicle to a professional. The headlight assembly is held in place with two pins that,… Read More »

How To Check Add or Flush Honda Civic Power Steering Fluid

If you have a Honda Civic and need to check, add, or flush the power steering fluid, it is easy to do. Keeping the fluid at the right level is needed for the power steering to operate correctly. A flush should also be done periodically as part of regular maintenance. Type of Power Steering Fluid… Read More »

Guide: Dodge Neon Thermostat Replacement (1999-2005)

Changing out a second generation Dodge Neon thermostat is a straight forward task that definitely falls in the DIY category. A bad thermostat will cause a Dodge Neon or any car to overheat and needs replaced when bad. As always call a mechanic if you don’t feel comfortable working on your own car. Only a… Read More »

How To Replace Front Toyota Corolla Brake Pads (2010-2019)

Replacing the brake pads on a 2010-2019 Toyota Corolla falls in the DIY backyard mechanic type of job. They are not difficult to replace but if in doubt be sure to call a professional. Items Needed To Replace Front Toyota Corolla Brake Pads 14mm Socket and Ratchet C-Clamp Screw Driver New Brake Pads A 14mm… Read More »