Rick Cotta
Contributor Rick Cotta has been in the automotive industry for more than 35 years, 30 of which were spent as an editor at Consumer Guide Automotive. He is also a former mechanic and earned ASE technician certification.
If your car is making a squealing or squeaking sound when you turn the steering wheel, there could be any of several culprits at play.
By Rick Cotta
August 24, 2025
Using regular gas in an engine that requires premium could void your warranty if it causes severe engine knock or pinging.
By Rick Cotta
August 10, 2025
EGR stands for exhaust gas recirculation, and the EGR valve is part of a system that recirculates exhaust gas back into the engine’s intake manifold for a return trip to the cylinders it just left.
By Rick Cotta
July 27, 2025
A misfire means that a cylinder in your engine isn’t producing the power it should because the air-fuel mixture in it didn’t properly ignite and burn.
By Rick Cotta
July 13, 2025
When suspension bushings are worn, they don’t adequately fill the gap between parts, which can lead to loose-feeling steering, uneven tire wear and even broken components.
By Rick Cotta
June 22, 2025
A general recommendation is to replace the positive crankcase ventilation, or PCV, valve every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
By Rick Cotta
June 8, 2025
A cabin air filter cleans the air coming into your car’s interior through the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems.
By Rick Cotta
May 25, 2025
The amount of oil consumption that is considered “normal” varies by manufacturer, what kind of driving you do and the number of miles the car has traveled.
By Rick Cotta
May 11, 2025
An illuminated battery light means there’s something wrong with the car’s charging system, which primarily consists of the battery and alternator, along with some associated components.
By Rick Cotta
April 27, 2025
Because many tire-leak repairs require taking the tire off the wheel, taking the car to a tire shop is often your best option. However, there are some simple things you can check and correct at home.
By Rick Cotta
April 13, 2025