Dave Redinger's The Neighbourhood Mechanic 4/4/06
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Dave Redinger who transitioned to his Heavenly home on February 7, 2022 was a licensed auto mechanic with over 40 years in the trade. He operated Dr. H. Honda Specialists in Etobcoke (Toronto). Dave was heard here on The Auto Channel, RIP Dave your knowledge and helpfulness will be welcome by concerned motorists forever.
DAVE
REDINGER
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Cars are hi-tech and complex. Yet, they have become increasingly reliable. Industry warranty rates are at an all time low. However; complicated repairs are time consuming and expensive. Take care of your valuable new car warranty. Read the terms and conditions that apply make sure you fully understand what your responsibilities are. The back of a tow truck is not the best place to find out you’re not covered…..
Just a thought.
I live in a rural area of the country. Living on a farm I have grown up using and maintaining expensive farm equipment. The dealer where I purchased my truck is over an hours drive away. Will I void my warranty if I service the vehicle myself?
Paula
Manufactures can not force their customers to return to the
purchasing dealer for service. However; the manufactures warranty will be
voided if the vehicle is improperly service. In your case I would
contact a local shop to do the maintenance work as required in the
owner’s manual. Keep good records. Assure yourself that the shop is
licensed. Your warranty is valuable. Contact your manufacture and advise
them of your situation. In that way you are assured that help is available
if required.
I am regularly reading your tips in
24Hours. I have 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan Sport, 120,000 km. Recently I had
the transmission serviced. (Transmission Oil, Filter Change and Flush)
After doing the service the van has started giving me problems. Now on
Highway it can't gain speed over 100 kph and it revs at 5000rpm. Can you
give any ideas?
Patel
The transmission is running in “limp mode”. The computer will engage “limp mode” when one of the sensors or switches in the unit are malfunctioning. I doubt very much that the service has caused your transmission to fail. These units are computer operated and extremely complicated. 120,000 kms relates to a lot of wear and the unit may actually be worn out. However it may not be terminal. The problem many actually be in the module that controls shifting. This is commonly referred to as a “solenoid pack”. Have your mechanic scan the transmission for codes and then follow standard repair procedure.
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