AI / ChatGPT a gamechanger for car maintenance

[hood b. goode]

Mechanic: We noticed your check engine light is on tire pressure sensors arent working. That'll be $750 please

ChatGPT: Cap!

• The parts cost $75-100 total
• You can try to replace yourself, or go to the tire store for the cheapest labor possible. Youre looking at $200 - 250.

Dealership: During our 6-month inspection we noticed yoru engine might need a fuel flush. You should consider getting that done with us For a low low fee of $200 we can get that handled.


ChatGPT: Ducktales
Buy a bottle of Seafom off Amazon for $25, run it in your gas tank when 25% and refuel. You're good to go


AI def has its drawbacks but this aint one of em.

 

[bnew]

recent comments on here has said it's useless tho.

 

[trapnerd]

How are you going to replace a tpms sensor yourself…. without a tire machine?

 

[Prince.Skeletor]

Also AI can do this

 

[BaggerofTea]

The fact that people can rip you off like that without fearing for their life is the biggest issue

 

[Json]

All those DIY car maintenance tutorials have been on YouTube forever. That’s probably what the Ai is scraping the info from.

 

[bnew]

How are you going to replace a tpms sensor yourself…. without a tire machine?

How are you going to replace a tpms sensor yourself…. without a tire machine? at DuckDuckGo

DuckDuckGo. Privacy, Simplified.

duckduckgo.com

TPMS Sensor Install At Home ? Save Money & Avoid The Shop

https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=VvKwUIReJ70

Channel Info Chuck & Rob's Whirlwind Adventures
Subscribers: 1.28K

Description

Spoiler

Today’s adventure is all about saving money and getting hands-on. I’m going to show you how to replace a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensor at home—no tire🛞 machine needed!
TPMS sensors can fail over time or their internal batteries can die. Instead of heading to the tire shop, I’ll walk you through how to do the job right in your driveway.
I’ll show you how I use a wood block and the weight of the truck to safely break the bead on the tire so we can access the sensor. Once the tire loosens from the rim, we’ll reach in, remove the old sensor, and install the new one.
Stick around to the end—I’ll also go over the basics of how to program your new TPMS sensors so you don’t get any warning lights on your dash. Let’s dive in and get it done!

Tools and Parts I used:

GM Ford sensor learning tool:
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076KL82JP/ref=ox_sc_act…

Tire Valve Stem Tool:
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DPG3ZYQX/ref=ox_sc_act…

Sensor Program tool:
www.launchtechusa.com/product-page/tsap-2

Long Reach Neadle Nose:
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094FK8GN9/ref=ox_sc_act…

Schrader 33500 E-Z Sensor:
www.amazon.com/Schrader-33500-Sensor-Programmable-…


Transcripts

Show transcript

show full step by step instructions.

Shared via Copilot

copilot.microsoft.com

Diy tpms sensor replacement without a tire machine​

Replacing a TPMS sensor without a tire machine is doable with patience, the right tools, and careful technique. This guide emphasizes safety and clear steps so you can complete the job without damaging the tire or wheel.

---

Tools and materials​

• New TPMS sensor: Match frequency/type to your vehicle; pre-programmed or programmable.
• Valve core tool: For removing and reinstalling valve cores.
• Bead breaker (manual): Lever-style bead breaker, farm jack, or dedicated manual bead tool. A 2x4 and vehicle jack can work in a pinch.
• Tire irons/spoons: Two or three, with smooth edges to avoid bead damage.
• Rubber mallet: For gentle persuasion when needed.
• Rim protectors: Plastic guards or thick tape to protect wheel finish.
• Soapy water or tire lube: For bead breaking and reseating.
• Air source: Compressor capable of quick airflow; bike pumps are typically insufficient.
• Safety gear: Safety glasses, gloves.
• Torque wrench: Small inch‑pound wrench for sensor nut (if applicable).
• Scan/relearn tool (optional): Helpful for sensor registration, though many vehicles have manual relearn procedures.

Tip: If your tire has internal bands or strap-mounted sensors (less common), confirm the replacement style before you begin.

---

Preparation​

• Choose a stable workspace: Flat, well-lit area. Use wheel chocks.
• Loosen lugs safely: Break loose lug nuts while the wheel is on the ground; then jack and support the vehicle on a jack stand.
• Mark tire orientation: Chalk the tire side relative to the wheel (optional) to preserve balance orientation.
• Deflate completely: Remove the valve cap and valve core to fully deflate the tire.

---

Break the bead safely​

• Locate the drop center: Most wheels have a drop center inboard; you’ll work the bead into this recess.
• Protect the rim: Apply rim protectors or tape at leverage points.
• Apply lube: Brush soapy water around both beads to reduce friction.
• Use a manual bead breaker: Position the tool near—but not on—the TPMS valve area. Break the bead on the tire side opposite the valve first.
• Alternative method: Place a 2x4 on the tire sidewall near the tread (not on the rim), and carefully lower a jack or vehicle weight onto the board to push the bead off. Move around the tire in small increments.

Caution: Do not pry directly against the valve stem or sensor area. Avoid sharp tools that can cut the bead.

---

Access the tpms area​

• Work one bead only: You don’t need to fully dismount the tire. Breaking the outer bead is usually enough.
• Create a gap near the valve: Press the sidewall down by hand or with a spoon to expose the valve stem base inside the rim.
• Position tire irons: Insert spoons opposite the valve if you need more clearance, keeping force minimal to avoid bead damage.

---

Remove the old sensor​

• Identify attachment type:
  • Clamp-in (metal stem): Held by a nut on the outside of the rim.
  • Snap-in (rubber stem): Rubber-based, pulls through the rim.
• Clamp-in removal:
  • Loosen the nut: Use a wrench to remove the external nut.
  • Push the sensor inward: Catch the sensor body inside the tire and move it free.
• Snap-in removal:
  • Cut the stem: Use a flush cutter to remove the external stem portion, then push the remainder inside and pull the sensor out.
• Inspect seating hole: Clean the valve hole and mating surfaces; remove corrosion or debris.

Caution: Do not drop the sensor into the tire cavity without retrieving it—you’ll need it out to avoid rattles or balance issues.

---

Install the new sensor​

• Check seals and torque specs: Use the new gasket/seal; verify manufacturer torque for clamp-in stems.
• Clamp-in installation:
  • Insert sensor through the rim: Position the sensor body inside with the stem through the valve hole.
  • Align and tighten: Hand-thread the nut, then torque to spec (commonly in the 35–80 in‑lb range, but follow your sensor’s exact spec).
• Snap-in installation:
  • Lubricate the rubber: Lightly with soapy water.
  • Pull-through: Use a valve stem puller to seat the snap-in stem firmly; ensure it’s fully seated and square.
• Sensor orientation: Ensure the sensor body sits clear of the bead seat area and isn’t rotated into the path of the bead.

Tip: A slight clockwise rotation during clamp-in tightening can help seat seals evenly, but never over-torque.

---

Reseat the bead and inflate​

• Lubricate bead: Apply soapy water around the bead and rim flange.
• Initial seating: Press the sidewall up by hand to begin contact; ensure the bead is uniformly positioned.
• Inflate with a quick burst: Use a compressor with sufficient flow. Keep fingers clear; wear eye protection.
• Confirm seating: Watch for the bead to pop into place evenly around the rim. Stop and reassess if any section hangs up.
• Set pressure: Inflate to the vehicle’s recommended cold pressure (door jamb sticker). Replace valve core and cap.

Caution: If the bead won’t seat, release pressure, re-lube, and try again. Never exceed the tire’s maximum seating pressure stamped on the sidewall.

---

Relearn and verification​

• Drive cycle: Many vehicles relearn automatically after 10–20 minutes at city/highway speeds with stable pressures.
• Manual relearn: Some require a sequence (ignition on, pressurize in order, horn chirps, etc.). Check your vehicle’s manual.
• Use a scan tool (optional): Trigger sensors and register their IDs if your vehicle needs explicit programming.
• Check dash light: Confirm the TPMS warning light clears. If not, verify sensor frequency/type, placement, and tire pressures.

---

Troubleshooting​

• Bead won’t break:
  • Solution: Increase lube, change leverage point, use a dedicated manual bead breaker, avoid prying on rim edges.
• Bead won’t reseat:
  • Solution: More lube, remove valve core for faster airflow, use a ratchet strap around the tread to help expand sidewalls.
• Slow leak at valve:
  • Solution: Re-torque clamp-in nut to spec, replace seal/grommet, confirm stem isn’t cocked.
• TPMS light stays on:
  • Solution: Confirm sensor compatibility and orientation, perform relearn, verify all tires (including spare) have functioning sensors.
• Sensor reads intermittently:
  • Solution: Check battery age of sensor, ensure no metal interference, verify tire pressure stability.

---

Safety and limitations​

• Avoid over-inflation: Follow tire and vehicle pressure limits strictly.
• Protect the bead: Damaged beads can cause leaks or catastrophic failure; if torn or cut, replace the tire.
• Know when to stop: If the bead resists or the rim or sensor hardware is corroded beyond simple cleaning, seek a tire shop.
• Balance check: If you fully dismounted the tire or disturbed balance weights, consider a balance service after installation.

---

Quick checklist​

• Confirm sensor type and compatibility.
• Deflate and break outer bead away from valve area.
• Remove old sensor; clean valve hole.
• Install new sensor; torque or seat properly.
• Reseat bead; inflate to spec.
• Perform relearn; verify dash light and readings.

 

[bnew]

ChatGPT saves woman over $2,700 on car repair bill. Can it do the same for you?

ChatGPT is capable of many things, including explaining some mechanical procedures. One user created a TikTok video showing how the chatbot saved her hundreds of dollars.

www.usatoday.com

ChatGPT saves woman over $2,700 on car repair bill. Can it do the same for you?​

This chatbot DIY repair won't work for everyone, but it saved this driver big bucks.​

Charles Singh

USA TODAY

Dec. 6, 2025, 6:30 a.m. ET

• AI is being used for everything from generating code to diagnosing automotive mechanical issues.
  
• While it isn't infallible, chatbots can be used to walk drivers through minor car repairs and maintenance, saving them labor costs.
  

Artificial intelligence has become a common tool for many Americans. According to The Pew Research Center, 62% of Americans interact with AI several times a week.

AI can organize data, generate bulleted lists, and assist users with a variety of tasks. Can it help with DIY car repairs? One ChatGPT user asked the chatbot for help after receiving a hefty auto repair bill. The driver was able to repair her vehicle on her own for a fraction of the price thanks to the chatbot's suggestions.

ChatGPT finds affordable solution to user's expensive car suspension problem​

Tik Tok user everything_bylaneise created a video detailing her car repair experience. The video's caption explains that she was quoted $2,800 by a mechanic to fix a suspension issue. ChatGPT told the driver that she could source the part she needed from the junkyard and buy it for $50.

The driver, an electrician by trade, documented herself performing the labor for the repair in the Tik Tok video. Based on the video, she was able to save $2,750 thanks to ChatGPT's ability to understand which part needed swapping and where to affordably source that part. There are a few important things to note as to why this may not work for everyone.

ChatGPT isn't infallible. In fact, most chatbots are capable of producing misinformation. Secondly, the driver also happened to be an electrician with the proper tools for the part swap. Ultimately, this TikTok user's claim is entirely plausible, as many mechanical issues can be fixed at home with the proper tools, information, and safety gear.

How to use AI to diagnose and repair minor car mechanical issues​

In many cases, a professional mechanic is the safer option over DIY jobs. Professional mechanics often work for shops that have the proper equipment to make vehicle repairs safer and more convenient such as lifts.







AI can assist drivers in finding affordable solutions for some minor car issues. You can get the best results out of AI by giving it a role, providing a detailed description of the task, and giving it a desired format for your output, according to a Harvard University Information Technology article on AI prompt writing.

Since AI chatbots can access millions of webpages, they can produce useful outputs at times. That said, always fact-check chatbot outputs before making any part purchases or performing any work on your vehicle.

How AI and YouTube can transform car DIY repairs​

YouTube is one of the most popular sites and apps for DIY tutorials on car maintenance and repairs. Popular creators with millions of views have helped countless drivers diagnose and address issues with their vehicles. YouTube does have limitations that chatbots can overcome since, unlike YouTube videos, they're interactive.

As depicted in the video above, chatbots like ChatGPT can miss important parts of a repair procedure. Chatbots and YouTube tutorials still won't replace professional mechanics for most drivers, but they can be useful for navigating very simple DIY maintenance and repair tasks such as swapping out a cabin air filter or a brake light.

inv.nadeko.net

 

[DrBanneker]

All those DIY car maintenance tutorials have been on YouTube forever. That’s probably what the Ai is scraping the info from.

For car repairs only use reputable (real mechanic) youtube videos and car model specific forums.

I was curious and asked AI (Google) some questions about a job I do regularly (brake pad and rotor change) and the thing mixed up the bracket bolt and caliper pin bolt torque numbers. That's 30 ft lbs and a potentially broken bolt and safety situation.

Later I found a forum post with the wrong info.

I don't trust em

 

[DrBanneker]

@bourgeoisie tall freak
We need your opinion as the first lady of car repair here

 

[bourgeoisie tall freak]

@bourgeoisie tall freak
We need your opinion as the first lady of car repair here

I am the first lady of car repair cause I am actively involved and do research by asking my mechanic friends and watching videos, reading forums, etc. I concur with chat for the general idea regarding do easy stuff yourself after research. But that's not even a gamechanger cuz its just regurgitating ish i would have found by Google and it might not even work. I was just thinking its about time for me to do a seafoam treatment on my jeep ironically which I do yearly now to clear the engine light and pass emissions. It should have mentioned to use premium gas, that's another tip.

But its fine to deal with dealers and mechanics if you use common sense, cuz some will try to rip you off. Everybody has a extra price for services you can decide to pay for if you think its worth it. I just paid land rover 1200 for a pack of maintenance just to see if it was worth it for my new truck and see the experience. Next time I will probably go with a cheaper shop since the novelty wore off

Just like some lawyers charge 2000 per hour when you can freely represent yourself and the laws are public information. If you hire someone to install drapery they charge 70$ an hour. lol, thats not "cap" its just service costs

 

[Schadenfreude]

How are you going to replace a tpms sensor yourself…. without a tire machine?

You could... If don't mind buying a set of tire spoons and have a bunch of free time on your hands. The bigger issue is programming the sensor.

 

[bnew]

For car repairs only use reputable (real mechanic) youtube videos and car model specific forums.

I was curious and asked AI (Google) some questions about a job I do regularly (brake pad and rotor change) and the thing mixed up the bracket bolt and caliper pin bolt torque numbers. That's 30 ft lbs and a potentially broken bolt and safety situation.

Later I found a forum post with the wrong info.

I don't trust em

do you test old prompts on newer LLM models?

 

[DrBanneker]

do you test old prompts on newer LLM models?

I could and maybe it is fixed (this was 4 months ago) but car repair ain't like code (which still has random bs on new models) first bad failure could be your last. Also car repair without images and video is crazy if you ask me.

 

[SpottieOttieD]

ain't tryna quote all that text tho

This shyt really is the future once they eliminate hallucinations. LLMs can really guide you through some crazy complex processes and spoon feed you every step of the way in whatever medium you want. It's just these days it can possibly spoon feed you straight to some bullshyt