Research methods have evolved in the 21 st century, with more information than ever available online. Back in the 2000s, a weekend warrior looking to fix a problem with their car might seek out advice ...

Gather as much information as possible about your car issue, including photos and videos capturing when a problem occurs. Not all information online is correct, and that goes for car repair advice.

The stench of burning plastic smacked Vicky Vivaldi in the face. Her Ford F-150’s air conditioning had failed—a pretty big deal in the throes of an Orlando July. “I was like, I cannot be in Florida ...