Check history, consider needs before purchase

DR. GIZMO

Check history, consider needs before purchase

By PHIL ARENDT

Saturday, June 30, 2007

I'm considering the purchase of a new 2007 or 2008 Chrysler minivan, but I don't understand a few things. J.D. Powers reports that the minivan is great, but Consumer Reports gives them their lowest reliability rating. Also, I see thousands of them on the road. What have I missed? G.B., e-mail

You haven't missed anything. The Chrysler minivan is a popular vehicle. It serves a wide variety of uses for all types of lifestyles, from commercial use to hauling a soccer team. In one day, it can make a morning run for garden mulch and in the evening it can travel downtown for a fancy night on the town. This is one reason you see so many on the road.

J.D. Powers provides an initial quality rating based on new customer impressions. Consumer Reports surveys its base long after the purchase. As a result, you encounter two different survey results.

Owners love their new vehicles, and more than likely have not had any trouble with them. Motorists who have owned a vehicle for a couple of years are more likely to have had some kind of repair performed so the vehicle gets a poor rating.

No one can predict what your experience will be with a new minivan, so base your purchase decision on the vehicle's history and your needs.

Oil filter has limitations

In a recent column, you addressed the importance of oil changes and how dirt and grit wear an engine. You didn't mention the oil filter. Doesn't the oil suspend dirt and grit which is carried to the oil filter? Why aren't there more additives in oil? P.B., Osceola, Wis.

You bet that oil suspends grit and grime. One of the most important jobs of oil is to clean the inside of the engine. It also carries the contamination to the oil filter. The oil filter does indeed remove most of the dirt and grime. Eventually the oil filter becomes full — similar to a garbage can becoming full. Once this occurs, grit and grime are not filtered and are circulated back into the engine. Also, the filter doesn't remove everything. It doesn't have the ability to remove fluid contamination and small bits of abrasive material.

As for more additives in the oil, there is a complex chemical structure that has to be balanced in order for oil to do all of its jobs. Adding more chemicals upsets the balance. Oil is supposed to lubricate, clean, cool and seal parts in the engine. This is a huge task that is constantly changing, therefore the chemical balance has to be as perfect as man can make it.

Synthetic oil may raise fuel economy

Recently I switched from mineral to synthetic oil in my Cadillac and Chevrolet Silverado. In both vehicles, I experienced an increase in fuel economy of about two miles per gallon. Now I'm a firm believer in the use of synthetic oil. Is my experience common? B.F., e-mail

AYour experience is similar to readers who have sent notes. However, I can't say that the results would be the same for every motorist who switches to synthetic lubricant. Synthetic lubricant is superior to regular mineral oil, but its cost traditionally is higher than mineral oil. Even with the high cost of gas, use of synthetic lubricant likely will not pay for itself in fuel cost savings.

Also, an increase in fuel economy while using synthetic lubricant is more likely during the winter months. Synthetic lubricant flows like water when mineral oil is as thick as grease. As a result, there is less resistance in an engine lubed with synthetic. This can and often does reduce fuel consumption.

Engine Lacks Spark

I have a 1989 Chevrolet Astro Van with a 4.3 liter engine and lots of miles. The engine has been difficult to start. About three months ago I replaced the spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap and distributor rotor.

Less than a week ago I drove the van. This afternoon I tried to start the engine. It cranked fine but it wouldn't start. I checked over the engine and found that it is getting gas but there isn't any spark.

Is it possible that the distributor rotor or ignition coil has a fault? Where should I look first? O.G., E-mail.

Recently you installed a new distributor cap and rotor so these are less likely to have a defect. To be sure remove the cap and inspect it for cracks. If it's cracked replace it.

Also, look for moisture. Often the cap becomes laden with condensation. If it's wet spark developed by the ignition coil grounds to the distributor cap and does not travel down the spark plug wires. If it's wet you can attempt to remove the moisture with a rag or blow it dry with a hair drier or compressed air. Once it's dry the engine may start.

If the cap is as dry as a bone in a hot desert sun, check the ignition coil. If it is not developing a spark it's possible the ignition module has a fault. Check the connections on the module for corrosion. If you find corrosion remove it with a residue-free chemical electrical contact cleaner and soft bristle brush.

If the ignition coil has a fault, replace it.

Battery Needs Help

Recently I replaced the alternator in my 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe. I replaced it because I heard a high pitch sound from the unit that changed with engine speed. Also, it wasn't charging the battery. Sometimes the battery would die while driving which required a jump start. At other times when I attempted to start the truck after it was parked a while the battery would need a jump.

After I replaced the alternator I gave the battery a quick charge. This worked fine for two days but then the battery died and needed a jump.

Now I'm at a loss. When I turn the key to start the engine won't start. The starter doesn't turn the engine but I know the battery is fine because the interior lights and exterior lights illuminate without any problem. I also checked all the cables and fuses. Everything is ok.

What should I do? S.R., E-mail.

This indeed is a dilemma. Make sure the battery cables are free from corrosion inside and out. Remove the cables and clean the terminals on the battery and cables.

Completely charge the battery. If after a few hours if the battery doesn't store a full charge it's probably time for a new battery, but there may be enough juice to start the engine.

Many auto supply stores have equipment to test a battery. A person at a store can test it for you. If it fails tests replacement should solve this affliction.

Cure For Troubled Transmission

The first shift of the automatic transmission in my Nissan Maxima has become hard. It's been this way for about a year. Recently I had the fluid flushed. This cured the trouble for about three months, but now the trouble has returned.

If I continue to drive with this problem will it cause damage? B.E., E-mail.

The condition could cause damage depending upon the severity of the harsh shift. This is a symptom that hydraulic pressure is not under control. There may be a computer glitch that requires an update. Perhaps there is a part within the valve body that is not functioning as designed or perhaps a passage or seal in the transmission has excessive wear.

Ask an experienced technician to perform computer and hydraulic tests to determine the cause. The results of testing will determine the repair. The repair may be as simple as reprogramming a computer or more complex but if a technician suggests an overhaul seek a second opinion from a technician at another repair shop.

Dissatisfied With Repair Shop

My daughter has a 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. Recently we were at a repair shop where we were told that the brake fluid needs a flush. A shop person said it should be done every two years because it becomes acidic. The cost to have the fluid flushed was $75. I have never heard of this and was reluctant to have the service performed, but I authorized the work.

A little while later a mechanic came from the shop to alert us to an oil leak at the crankshaft. He took me to the car to show me the leak but no leak was visible. He said that the oil was leaking under a cover. I didn't authorize this work. At home I examined the ground where the car is always parked and there wasn't any oil.

Do you think the shop should be reported to the Better Business Bureau? E.M., E-mail.

A brake fluid flush should take place when the brakes are replaced. In your vehicle it's not a factory recommended service that is based upon a specific time and mileage maintenance schedule. It is on some vehicle maintenance schedules but not the Alero. Also, some shops will test the brake fluid to determine if a flush is needed.

As for the crankshaft oil leak, if the technician couldn't demonstrate a dripping oil leak it's not necessary to fix a leak. This is especially true in your case because you didn't find any oil on the ground of your daughter's parking space. Since this seems to be a case of trying to sell you unnecessary repairs consider filing a complaint with repair shop management and the BBB.

Tires Abound

I'm considering replacement tires. Presently my car has the original equipment tires that were installed at the factory. They are Michelin MXV P195/65R15 tires. It's my understanding that the car manufacturer and the tire manufacturer matched the tires to my car.

In my search for new tires I have found tires of the same size that are less expensive than the tires presently on the car. Is it ok for me to have a different brand of tire of the same size installed? Will it affect handling and performance if I do? E.W., E-mail.

This is such a great country. There are so many choices available that meet or exceed car manufacturer specifications that you should not have any trouble finding a new set of tires for less money. I checked one supplier that had nearly 40 different tires of the size that would fit your car. Besides price and size, compare load, traction, temperature, wear and speed ratings. As long as the new tires equal the present tires that are on the car you should not notice any difference in performance and handling. Actually, new tires should respond better than the old tires after a few hundred miles of travel.

Poor Connection Knocks Out Four Devices

I hope you can help. The air conditioner fan motor, four-wheel-drive, radio and windshield wipers intermittently do not work in my truck. I took the vehicle to my mechanic. He plugged in his computer to diagnose the trouble but everything checked ok because everything was working properly at the time of his test.

What do you think is wrong? R.A., E-mail.

It's difficult to find the cause of such a problem when everything is working as designed. It's likely there is a common connection between all of these devices. More than likely there is a faulty ground connection. It may be loose or suffering from corrosion.

To find the cause a technician needs to examine a wiring schematic to determine common connections. Once he does this he can check the connections for security and corrosion. This will take time but once this is accomplished the repair likely will take a few minutes.

Experienced Technician Will Find Cause

I own a 1990 Ford Ranger with 130,000 miles. I've owned it since it was new. It runs great and has been well maintained all of these years. The trouble is that lately in the morning it is difficult to start. As a result I had the engine tuned but this didn't help.

I talked this problem over with a mechanic friend who suggested that the electric fuel pump in the fuel tank probably is the failing. He suggested that I turn the key on for a few seconds before starting the engine. I followed his advice and the engine starts right up. Then the truck starts without fault the rest of the day. I've been doing this for a while but now I have to turn the key on and off a few times to start the engine so the trouble is getting worse.

A new fuel pump will cost about $400. I won't hesitate to install a pump if it will solve the trouble. Will a technician with the proper equipment be able to determine if the fuel pump is the source of hard starts? C.I., E-mail.

Yes indeed an experienced technician with the proper diagnostic tools can determine if the fuel pump is the cause of the trouble especially since the trouble has become worse. It's possible that the pump is worn and not providing the pressure it used to. It's also possible it does not deliver the volume of fuel the engine needs. A technician can check the fuel pressure and volume but he will need to do this upon the initial start of the day when you have the most trouble.

There also is a lot more to starting the engine than you may think. There is a fuel pressure regulator, fuel pressure regulator solenoid, engine control module, fuel pump relay, air flow sensor and more that all need to be working properly for normal engine starts. A technician should perform tests to make sure these items are working correctly before he condemns the fuel pump. However, from what you describe it's likely the fuel pump is the cause of your concern.

Time For a New Instrument Cluster

I have a 1998 Chevrolet Blazer. Lately the odometer and the transmission displays flicker and sometimes they go out all together. If I tap on the cover they come back on.

Also, the odometer sometimes reads 000000. If turn off the engine and restart, the odometer goes back to its' original reading. Then sometimes it will only show half of the numbers. A couple of times the tachometer went all the way over to the right and then back down after I tapped on it.

There seems to be a loose connection or a faulty switch. I've taken the truck to my local mechanic, but he says he's not able to fix it. Do you think the trouble is computer related or something else? M., E-mail.

The technician who explained that he couldn't repair the trouble is correct. The instrument cluster is a unit that is sealed at the factory. Within the housing there is a microprocessor, circuitry and indicators. Parts are not available for field repairs at independent or dealership repair shops.

When the unit malfunctions a technician checks the electrical power supply and connections to make sure the cluster is receiving power and information from sensors and computers. If tests find that the instrument panel is receiving all the necessary information for proper operation the trouble is inside the cluster. All he can do is replace the entire unit. Of course if there is a problem in the wiring to the cluster or a sensor has failed he can repair those problems but can't repair anything inside the cluster. He can send the unit to a repair shop that specializes in speedometer repairs or he can order another cluster from a supply company and install the replacement.

If you are sure that the trouble is inside the cluster housing, and are an avid do-it-yourselfer, it takes about an hour to remove and replace the unit. You might consider ordering a replacement unit. Check with your local dealer or independent repair shop to learn where they get replacement units. Also, you can find shops on the internet that tackle the work of remanufacturing the unit.

Concern Over Oil Consumption

My 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix with a 5.3 liter V-8 uses too much oil. I purchased the car when it had 6,000 miles on it. Now it has 15,000 miles. I have changed the oil every 3,000 miles. The engine hasn't used any oil in between oil changes.

Recently I switched to synthetic oil. After driving 1,700 miles I noticed that the oil was low about a half a quart. I topped it off to the full mark. After driving another 350 miles I checked the oil level. It was down one half quart again.

What could cause this? Was it a bad idea to switch to synthetic oil? Also, how often do you recommend that I change the oil now that I'm using synthetic? B.C., E-mail.

According to information released by General Motors it is acceptable for the engine to consume a quart of oil every 2,000 miles. Oil consumption may very depending upon driving habits. If you tow a trailer or drive aggressively oil consumption may increase.

Switching from mineral oil to synthetic lubricant may have an effect on oil consumption, but generally it doesn't. In your case oil consumption seems to have increased. Consider asking dealership shop personnel to perform an oil consumption test. An oil consumption test will help determine the cause of increased oil consumption. Perhaps the valve seals are leaking oil into the cylinders. If so replacement is the cure. However, from what you describe the oil consumption is normal according to the carmaker.

As for how often you should change the synthetic oil and oil filter, every 3,000 miles or three months, which ever occurs first.

Internet Repair Manuals

I read where for about $20 a day I could download detailed repair information but I don't remember if it was in your column or somewhere else.

Do you know where I can find internet repair manuals? L.W., E-mail.

You came to the right place. There are online subscription services. You can receive all the information about your car that you need and then some. You can subscribe to web sites that professional mechanics use for all of their repair information that encompasses just about every vehicle traveling the roads on the planet or to do-it-yourselfer sites specific to one vehicle that offer all the information that a professional mechanic accesses.

The most popular professional technician and do-it-yourself auto repair web sites are http://www.eautorepair.net, http://www.alldata.com and http://www.chiltondiy.com. The cost varies but it is much less than $20 a day.

A/C Dehumidifies Cabin Air

I'm concerned about fuel economy especially now that gas prices are so high. I have heard from many sources that the air conditioner compressor runs when the air conditioner is not selected on the dash. Is there a reason for the compressor to run? Can I disconnect it? N.N., E-mail.

You can disconnect the air conditioner compressor electrical plug if you desire but the system will not cool when you want to use the system. Also, doing so may illuminate the check engine light or cause an error code to pop up on the climate control display that only a technician can turn off.

Also, on many vehicles the air conditioner compressor automatically turns on when the defrost or defog mode is selected on the dash climate control. The air conditioning system dehumidifies the air in the passenger cabin to defog the interior glass. If you disconnect the compressor you may encounter fog on the glass that will limit your visibility of the road. This as you probably may surmise may cause you to have a collision that could result in significant injuries or death to you and others. I don't want this to happen to you.

Cruise Control Raises Concern

I have a 2002 Ford Explorer that has the same cruise control deactivator switch as other Ford products that allegedly produce a fire. Can I disconnect the wire to the switch to avoid a fire? Will I be able to use the cruise control? Can I purchase another switch or must I do some rewiring? Is there a simple fix? T.L., E-mail.

I can understand your concern. There does appear to be a problem with the cruise control deactivation switch in 1998 Explorers but not your vehicle. For the latest information on the recall contact your local dealer. There is a long list of Ford products that have been recalled but my information says your vehicle is not affected. However, the recall is subject to change and may include additional vehicles.

Ford Motor Company alerts dealerships to recalls. Dealerships are paid to perform recall work and are pleased with the income a recall brings to their shop. Consider asking dealer service department personnel if your vehicle is affected by this potential fire hazard. If not there is no need to do anything to the cruise control deactivation switch. If your vehicle is affected by the recall dealer personnel can disable the cruise control if replacement parts are not in stock at no charge to you. If repair parts are available the work to correct the problem also is performed free of charge.

Interior Lights Shine Brightly

The interior lights in my 1996 Buick Park Avenue no longer turn off when I shift the car into gear. I took the car to my dealer where a computer was replaced, but the trouble continues.

How do I fix this? J.S., E-mail.

Apparently the dealer technician misdiagnosed the trouble or the lights would function normally. Consider returning to the dealer. Speak with the department manager about the misdiagnosis. He should direct the technician to do a proper repair.

The system is complex especially if your vehicle has an antitheft system. A failure in the interior lamp control switch, control module, multifunction module or one of several door switches could cause the trouble. A technician needs to troubleshoot the system using factory procedures. From what you describe a failed switch is the root of the trouble, but only testing will pinpoint the exact cause of this condition.

Film On Hood Raises Concern

I noticed a white greasy film on the hood above the alternator in my 2000 Ford Taurus with a V-6 engine. The warning light on my dash isn't coming on. Also, the alternator seems to be charging just fine. Is the build-up of this film normal? C.J., E-mail.

The film is not something that an alternator emits. However, there is no emergency. The film could be the result of a service person applying something such as belt dressing to the serpentine belt. It's also possible a fluid from the road adhered to the belt resulting in some of the gook appearing on the hood.

Also, it's possible there is a cooling system leak that drips onto the serpentine belt. As a result coolant might be slinging to the hood. To find out, check the cooling system for leaks at the front of the engine.

Repair leaks if needed.

Failed Instrument Panel Is Safety Concern

The instrument panel in my 2002 GMC Yukon failed. The speedometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure and temperature gauge readings do not function. I took the truck to my dealer where a mechanic replaced a computer. This fixed the trouble for a while but now the trouble has returned. As a result I have been back to the dealer 5 times but the problem remains.

Now I'm concerned that this electrical problem is a safety concern. Can you help? K.S., E-mail.

An inoperable speedometer is a safety concern and you could collect a ticket for excess speed or driving too slow.

There is a loose or damaged connection in the circuit that needs to be found and repaired. It's in the instrument cluster or a wire harness. There may also be a wire that is broken under the insulation. This is even more difficult to find.

There might be 200 connections or more that have to be thoroughly inspected using tools specific for the purpose of checking terminals and pins. Also, electronic diagnostic tools are needed to find the source of the trouble.

As you have discovered the frustration in such a situation can be overwhelming. The only recourse is to leave the vehicle at a repair shop.

This will give an experienced technician the time he needs to pinpoint the cause of this failure, but this will lead to a cure. Consider asking the shop manager to assign another technician to solve the problem. Sometimes this results in a quick cure.

Cruise Control On the Fritz

Lately the cruise control in my 2002 Dodge Neon has been acting up. Now it has quit working. What could be the problem? In order to fix this does a mechanic go through a lot of guesswork or is there something specific he can

replace? R.J., E-mail.

The cruise control is a rather complex system that includes a number of switches, a servo, throttle control cable, vacuum hoses, vacuum storage tank, wiring, wiring terminals and connections. Also the cruise system receives information from the engine control computer. In addition to all of this, if your car has an automatic transmission the cruise control is linked into the transmission control module so that the transmission can downshift or upshift depending upon the grade of the road and load in the vehicle.

Hopefully a warning light illuminated on your dash. This is a big plus in determining what failed in the system. A technician will perform a visual inspection of vacuum lines and throttle linkage. Faults such as a failed vacuum line may not illuminate a warning light but visual inspection usually will find a fault.

If a visual inspection of vacuum lines and linkage finds no fault, a technician will connect an electronic diagnostic computer to retrieve failure codes from the various components, sensors and computers. Once this is accomplished he should have a good idea what has failed and a repair soon will follow.

New SUV, Dead Battery

Help! I purchased a new Hyundai Tucson but the battery dies. I took the vehicle to a dealer where they removed an alarm that I didn't want. After this I went away for four days and returned to a dead battery. I returned to the dealer again. This time they replaced the battery. Then I went away for two weeks. Upon my return the battery was dead.

Now dealer personnel can't come up with a solution. Do you have any suggestions? R.H., Huntley, IL.

I guess your Tucson doesn't want you to leave it alone. All kidding aside a dealer technician should check the level of parasitic discharge. Something is drawing power from the battery. However, some discharge is normal. If the discharge is within factory specifications there is nothing for a technician to repair. If the discharge exceeds factory specifications a technician must determine the circuit causing the trouble and repair it.

In some instances when a vehicle is used for mostly short trips a battery will slowly lose its charge until the vehicle is impaired. In your case this might be true. Short trips and the lack of regular use might be the cause of this condition. If this happens to be the case, consider installing a battery maintainer/charger. A unit costs about $30 at most auto, recreational vehicle and boat supply stores. It is permanently installed to the battery. When you are not using the vehicle all you need to do is plug the maintainer into a standard household outlet. Then when you do use the vehicle unplug the unit and hit the road.

A Shocking Experience

My wife's 1996 Subaru Legacy often gives her a static shock when she gets out of the car and touches the metal part of the door. Also, the positive battery terminal frequently needs cleaning. Could an electrical imbalance cause my wife to be shocked? A.S., St. Paul, Minn.

Your wife must be electrifying. You are one lucky guy! Be this as it may the cause of the shock is not the result of a problem in the car's electrical system. Vehicles with cloth or vinyl seats are more likely to develop static electricity. As a result when a person departs from a vehicle they could get a shock as they place a foot on the ground and touch metal on the car.

To help prevent this shocking experience consider installing static straps to the bottom of the car. Also, in vehicles with cloth interior you can treat the seats with static reducing spray chemicals that are available at many auto supply stores.

Also, consider discharging static electricity by grabbing the metal door frame before departing the car. In doing so, static electricity will discharge without a jolt.

Also, since there is a history of static discharge in this vehicle your wife should always touch the vehicle prior to fueling the gas tank. She should touch the car before touching the gas pump and gas cap.

Time For New Brakes

The right front brakes in my 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe make a howling sound. I don't hear the sound with each trip but when I do hear the noise it stops when I touch the brake pedal.

I took the vehicle to a dealer where a mechanic thought the noise was caused by something in the brake pads. He did something to them and the noise returned in about a month. I returned to the dealer and was told that only 25 percent of the brake material remains.

I was charged for labor and I'm not satisfied. Now I'm wondering if I should return to the dealership where I purchased the car for another opinion. What do you think? J.O., E-mail.

Your Hyundai is trying to communicate. When the brake material is excessively worn the front brake pads have a tab that produces a sound. This is built into the brake pads to alert you that the brakes are in need of replacement. Since a technician explained that the brakes are worn a second opinion from a technician at your selling dealer probably will verify the first technician's diagnosis. If so the cure is to replace the front brake pads.

Wiper Motor Needs Repair

When I have the wipers in my 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer set to intermittent the wiper blades stutter and jerk across the glass. When the wipers are on low or high speed they work fine. I did some research and learned that the trouble could be the wiper switch or module. Previously I had some recall work done on the motor.

Which part do you think needs replacement? D.C., E-mail.

The recall work you mention was performed to prevent water from entering the wiper motor. At the time of the work a technician is supposed to inspect the inside of the wiper motor for water intrusion. According to the recall notice if there are signs of water in the motor it should be replaced.

The symptoms you describe are consistent with a faulty module in the motor. In some instances you can purchase a replacement module and install it in the motor. If you can't locate a replacement module the cure is to replace the motor. You might be able to purchase a remanufactured motor from an auto supply store. If so it should cost less than a brand new motor.

New Part Defective

Recently the 2.7 liter engine in my 2001 Chrysler Sebring with 50,000 miles developed a hard starting condition. I replaced the fuel pressure regulator and camshaft sensor. I also replaced the gas cap because the owner's manual stated that it might be loose or have a problem. None of this work cured the trouble.

I had the computer tested and a code 340 appeared. This suggests that the cam sensor has a fault. It also suggested that the timing chain has jumped a tooth. I took the new part out and installed the old sensor and the car ran better. Some armchair mechanics said that the trouble could be caused by a faulty connection, poor ground, faulty crankshaft sensor or the newly installed sensor has a fault. What do you suggest? K.L., E-mail.

It's not likely that the timing chain has jumped a tooth but it's possible so make sure the timing is proper. If not, replace the timing chain. However, it's more likely that there is a poor connection or the newly installed sensor has a fault. Code 340 indicates a problem in the camshaft sensor circuit. It's time to troubleshoot the circuit. If the new part is faulty, return to the auto supply shop for another.

More Troubleshooting Needed

The 2.0 DOHC engine in my 2000 Ford Escort is difficult to start. This usually happens if I attempt to start the engine after it has been off for a few minutes in a situation where I might stop to do a quick errand. To start the engine I have to cycle the ignition key on and off a couple of times. If I don't the engine just spins and won't start.

To fix the trouble I replaced the fuel pump and cleaned the fuel injectors but the trouble continues. I was thinking about replacing the fuel pressure regulator but I'm told that there hasn't been any trouble with them. This fuel pressure regulator has a vacuum line attached to it and the fuel system doesn't have a return line. What do you think I should replace next? T., E-mail.

It's likely that the part you think is a fuel pressure regulator is actually a damper that reduces fuel injector noises. The fuel pressure regulator is in the fuel tank with the fuel pump. It was replaced when the new fuel pump was installed. It's part of the assembly.

Since you think the trouble is caused by a lack of fuel pressure the first thing to do is check the pressure with the engine running and when it is shut off. If the pressure is not within factory specifications it's likely the newly installed tank unit assembly has a fault. It's also possible that it's ok and that the engine isn't starting as a result of an ignition problem such as no spark at the spark plugs.

A check of spark and fuel should send you down a path to a proper and lasting repair.

New Bulb Could Be The Cure

The left turn signal in my 2000 Chevrolet Blazer stops blinking when I apply the brakes. Do you any idea what causes this? N.T., E-mail.

This could be the result of a failed bulb. If so replacement is the cure.

It's also possible that the bulb sockets have been affected by corrosion or there is a poor ground connection. First check the bulb. If it tests A-ok then dig into the sockets and wiring.

If the sockets are corroded the assembly might need replacement. If the unit is ok it's time to check ground connections for corrosion and security. The fix all depends on the cause.

Faulty Valve Impairs Transmission

I think the transmission slips in my 2000 Lincoln Town Car with 108,000 miles. The car runs great except occasionally when I'm traveling at 45 mph the car jerks a little as if the transmission is slipping. I took the car to a shop where the transmission fluid was flushed. The shop manager said that the trouble probably would stop after 2,000 miles of travel. That was

8,000 miles ago and the trouble continues.

What's up? K.K., White Bear Lake, Minn.

This may be a case where the locking torque converter is not engaging normally. The transmission has a control module that cycles several solenoid operated valves that direct hydraulic pressure to engage clutches including the torque converter clutch.

When a problem develops the control module stores diagnostic trouble codes.

The codes can be retrieved by a technician using a diagnostic scan tool. He also can test the operation of the various valves using a scan tool and a hydraulic pressure gauge. Once all the information is gathered from the control module and pressure readings from the gauge he can explain what is causing the fault and what needs to be done to cure the trouble. More than likely the valve that directs pressure to the torque converter clutch has a malfunction. If so it might need replacement.

Lock Needs Lube Job

I need your help. After I have driven my 2002 Buick Regal the ignition key refuses to come out of the lock. Some times it takes a few seconds for me to remove the key. At other times it might be several minutes.

What's wrong? R.J.B., West St. Paul, Minn.

It appears that your car wants to keep traveling. Be this as it may the trouble might be that the lock needs lubrication or replacement. Also, sometimes the key is the source of the trouble.

To fix the trouble first lubricate the lock with lock lubricant. This might cure your dilemma, but if not ask a technician to check it.

In many cases it is necessary to remove the lock cylinder to properly lubricate it but you can try squirting lubricant into the key slot. If it works your troubles are over until the next time the key sticks.

Remote Fob And Key Disable Alarm

I have a Ford Contour with a security system. I'm told that in order to disable the armed security system that the key fob and not the key is used to disarm the system. Isn't there a sensor or something that can be shut off with the key? D.V.B., E-mail.

I don't know if your car is equipped with a factory original equipment antitheft system or if it has an aftermarket system installed. Be this as it may, if your car has a factory original equipment system you should be able it with the key by unlocking the driver's or passenger's door with the key. Also you may use the remote key fob transmitter to unlock the doors.

Also, it's feasible the ignition switch needs to be turned on after the doors are unlocked.

If the alarm sounds and you want to shut it off, use the key to unlock the driver or passenger door or use the remote key fob to unlock the doors.

Again the ignition may need to be turned on after the doors are unlocked.

For a complete description of how to utilize the anti-theft system, refer to your owner's guide that came with the vehicle. If you don't have one, consider ordering a manual. A Ford dealer parts department person can assist you with the order.

Impaired Fuel Pump Causes Engine To Surge

Recently I purchased a 2003 Chevrolet Malibu with 20,000 miles on it. After the purchase I noticed that the car surged. The colder it was outside the worse the car surged. Twice, I took the car to my local dealer where technicians could not find any problems.

At 58,000 miles the car failed to start. It was determined that the fuel pump had failed. A new pump was installed to cure the starting problem.

Ever since this repair the car does not surge. Could this have been the problem all along? S.S., E-mail.

Although this is a little unusual yes indeed the fuel pump could have been faltering all of these miles causing the engine to surge. It finally failed and the engine wouldn't fire.

Hopefully along with the new fuel pump a new fuel filter was installed. If not consider having the part replaced due to the mileage on your vehicle. A fuel filter that it partially blocked could cause your new fuel pump to fail prematurely. Of course chances are that it won't fail until after the warranty expires so have the fuel filter replaced if it wasn't replaced when the new pump was installed.

Seek Out Other Causes Of HVAC Problem

The automatic air conditioner in my 1998 Ford Crown Victoria quit working.

I hit the button to activate the air conditioner but it didn't turn on. Now only hot air blows from the vents. I was told by a mechanic that to correct the problem that the entire dash has to be disassembled. Do you think this is the only procedure to correct the trouble? K.M., E-mail.

No. It's possible that the air conditioner has a fault. Refrigerant may have leaked from the system as a result of a leaky seal or hose. As a result the system doesn't produce cold air. A technician should check the refrigerant system for a possible failure before condemning the dash control. Of course if the refrigerant system is working properly there might trouble in the dash that requires disassembly of the center controls but not the entire dash unless the diverter doors in the duct work have a malfunction.

No Need For Premium Fuel

My Grandson has a 1991 Honda Civic SI with a 4-cylinder engine and 5-speed manual transmission. He burns high octane gasoline in it. Gasoline is so expensive. Why does he have to use high octane gas? What would happen if he filled the tank with less expensive fuel? J., E-mail.

Your grandson's car should run just fine on 87 octane gas. If he has been using 89 octane or higher in the tank it's unnecessary. However, if the engine develops ping sounds when burning 87 octane gasoline it's possible there is a problem in the engine such as improper timing or perhaps there are heavy carbon deposits. It's also possible the air to fuel mixture ratio is too lean.

He should consider switching to lower octane fuel. If the engine develops ping sounds he should have the engine checked by an experienced technician.

Thanks for all of your great questions. Dr. Gizmo looks forward to answering more.

Phil Arendt is a columnist, consultant and A.S.E.-Certified Master Technician. Readers may send questions to Dr. Gizmo at P.O. Box 548, Cary, IL. 60013 or e-mail address drgizmo@drgizmo.ws.

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