The AutoAnvil Reference Hub
Quick-reference specs, diagnostic guides, tool recommendations, and how-to articles — everything a DIY mechanic needs, organized and searchable.
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Quick Reference
Common Torque Specs
| Lug nuts (steel wheel) | 80–100 ft-lb |
| Lug nuts (alloy wheel) | 85–110 ft-lb |
| Spark plugs | 15–20 ft-lb |
| Oil drain plug | 20–30 ft-lb |
| Brake caliper bolts | 25–35 ft-lb |
OBD2 Code Families
| P0xxx | Powertrain — generic |
| P1xxx | Powertrain — manufacturer |
| B0xxx | Body |
| C0xxx | Chassis |
| U0xxx | Network / Bus |
Engine Oil Viscosity Guide
| 0W-20 | Modern engines, cold climates |
| 5W-30 | Most passenger cars |
| 5W-40 | European engines, turbo |
| 10W-30 | Older engines, warm climates |
| 15W-40 | Diesel, high-mileage |
All Guides & Articles
10 articles
How to Do a Full LS Swap on a Budget: The Complete Forge Guide
Everything you need to know to drop an LS engine into almost any vehicle for under $5,000 — from donor selection to first start.
Best Impact Wrenches for Home Mechanics in 2025: Tested and Ranked
We tested 11 impact wrenches across cordless, corded, and pneumatic categories to find the best options for home garage use at every price point.
Garage Setup Guide: How to Build a Serious Home Workshop for Under $3,000
A complete guide to setting up a functional, organized home garage workshop for serious automotive work — from floor to ceiling, under $3,000.
How to Check Engine Light Codes and Fix the 10 Most Common OBD-II Faults
A practical guide to reading OBD-II codes, understanding what they mean, and fixing the 10 most common check engine light causes yourself.
Classic Car Restoration on a $5,000 Budget: What's Actually Possible
A realistic look at what a $5,000 budget can accomplish in a classic car restoration — and how to prioritize your spending for maximum impact.
Coilover vs. Lowering Springs: Which Suspension Upgrade Is Right for You?
The suspension debate that divides every car community. We break down the real differences in ride quality, adjustability, cost, and daily drivability.
The DIY Guide to Painting Your Own Car: From Bare Metal to Show-Quality Finish
Professional paint jobs cost $3,000–$10,000. With the right prep, equipment, and technique, you can achieve stunning results in your own garage for a fraction of the cost.
How to Read and Interpret OBD2 Live Data: Beyond the Basic Code Reader
Fault codes tell you where to look. Live data tells you what is actually happening. Here is how to use your OBD2 scanner's most powerful feature to diagnose problems faster.
Brake Upgrade Guide: Pads, Rotors, and Lines for Every Budget
Your brakes are the most important safety system on your car. Here is how to upgrade them intelligently — from a simple pad swap to a full big brake kit — without wasting money.
Winter Storage Guide: How to Properly Store Your Project Car for the Off-Season
Six months in storage can undo a year of work if you do it wrong. This checklist covers everything from fuel stabilizer to rodent prevention so your car wakes up ready to drive.
Trusted External Resources
Vetted third-party references used by professional mechanics and serious DIYers.