Dave's Q & A
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Maintenance
For mainteneance advice click here.
Nothing protects your investment more than maintenance. A well maintained vehicle is reliable and most of all safe. Computer technology has made the modern car so reliable that people avoid service, “cause it just feels right and it works”. Modern cars are low maintenance not NO Maintenance. My fridge is low maintenance not my car!
ABS
ABS
I have a 1997 Buick Park Avenue in mint condition. The only problem is that the A.B.S. is not working. Can this car be certified without this feature being repaired? If not how much would it cost approximately to get fixed. Thank you in advance for your reply.
Thanks for our question. Unfortunately the area of ABS is one of those gray areas that the safety certificate act does not really cover. I have chatted with my peers on this on. Personally I would say that ABS system must function as designed. Others have said “if the basic hydraulics are functioning the braking system should pass”. Seems both answers are correct. If your tech chose to overlook the non function ABS I would disclose this to the buyer to avoid any potential issues later on. Cost of certification is 50 dollars for the inspection, plus what ever work is required to bring the vehicle up to standard.
Just wanted to give a big thank you to Mr Kruszynsky for the fine work he’s performing instructing my nephew’s.
Traction control light
I drive a 91 Cadillac Deville ..the traction control light will not go on .and the ABS LIGHT IS ON. Is this something I should worry about?
Jennette.
Hi Jenette: With the addition of Antilock Braking Systems (ABS) manufactures have been able to use the data generated by the system to operate other features. Tractioncontrol, Yaw control, Tire pressure monitoring etc.. If the basic information is compromised the systems will not function. Being safety related contact a competent shop with appropriate diagnostic equipment. Don’t put this off.
A/C
For adivce on A/C click here.
A/C Conversion
I drive a classic 1960 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible. In the summer we take the car to cruise nights and tours. The vehicles air conditioning system uses Freon or R12. I had a supply and used to recharge the air conditioner myself but my stock ran out years ago. We getting on in years and would like to get the cold back in my ride. Can you bring me up to speed?
There are two course of action you can take. You can convert the system to the current refrigerant In use today. R134a. This process is not too costly. Involves flushing the system, testing it to insure it has integrity and modifying the charge ports to accept the charging equipment. The second alternative is charging the system with hydrocarbon based gases. These gases do not require you to convert your system. Brand names are A/C Rescue and Duracool. 416 233 4671 for more info.
Freon A/C
I drive a 1990 Cadillac sedan. The air conditioner is starting to get weak. I understand that because this car uses Freon I can not have the system serviced. Is that true?
Stan , Niagara Falls
Freon was discontinued with environmental concerns. It was apparently damaging the ozone. However; old Freon systems are serviceable. The systems can be converted to the new gas (134a). There are conversion kits available at reasonable cost. Second option is to recharge the system with an organic based gas. These are available under various trade names and are a direct replacement for Freon (R12). On modification is required. In both cases the system must be in good operating condition to accept a charge.
Fuel
Fuel system
We very much enjoy your program on Saturdays .I drive a Lexus ES 300 and recently have noticed a vibration when I accelerate slowly up an incline. Turned out it was premature detonation (knock) of the cheaper grade of gasoline which I had started using My service manager put a in a quart of additive into the gas tank and advised me to do the same again with the next fill-up at the pump. Please could you advise which brand and grade of gasoline you would use in such an instance.
Ignition knock occurs when the gasoline ignites before the spark plug fires. The octane number (RON) is a measurement of gasoline's resistance to pre-ignition. The hottest fuel out there right now is Sunoco 94. The octane number is actually 94. Aircraft fuel 105. So you can relate regular gas has a RON number of 87.Check your owner's manual and see what is recommended for your car. The vehicle should be able to run without additives. If the vehicle is knocking with the correct fuel you may have a fuel injection problem or there could be carbon build up in the combustion system or you may have a timing issue... further investigation is definitely warranted.
Fuel Injection Conversion
I have a 1984 Chevy Blazer with a 350 4 barrel engine. I would like to know “what is the best way in convert the engine to fuel injection”. Is there a kit to convert to a “Throttle Body Injection” fuel injection system?
Stop! Hold it! Do not pass go. These kits are available and expensive. The value of the kit and labour involved is more than likely 10 times the value of your truck. Secondly these are performance parts are designed for High performance machines. Best advice here is to leave it alone Purchase a more modern vehicle with fuel injection.
Fuel Grade
My manual recommends using mid-grade or higher. Two weeks ago the average fill $45- today $65-70. My strategy is to fill half the tank with regular gas and half with mid-grade, supplementing the fuel system with an additive/cleaner every third tank. Do you see this strategy as being a workable solution?
Nope, too complicated. Your car should run happily on regular. No fuel additive is required. The vehicle's computerized injection system will make the necessary adjustments to the timing and injection pulse. If you notice any “pinging” under acceleration switch to mid-range. I doubt that you will notice any change in drivability. I there are drivability issues have the car scope checked some things wrong.
Tires
For adivce on tires click here and here.Tire Pressure
Hi Dave, I ran into a serious issue I think your readers should be aware of. My car is a 05 Chrysler Crossfire. It has installed a Tire Pressure Monitor. The original wheels are alloy. For the winter I purchased steel wheels to mount my snows on. Turns out I have to purchase a set of TPMS sensors for the wheels at an outrageous price. I just wanted to warn others of my dilemma.
The tire pressure monitor system was legislated by the government in an attempt to help drivers maintain the air pressure in their cars. It’s a great idea. Maintaining tire pressures is a serious safety issue. However, in some states it’s not legal to drive with this system not operating. This is not the case in Canada. Another interesting fact, on some vehicles the traction control will not function without TPMS working. So before committing to winter rims check out how the tire pressure monitoring system works on your vehicle.
Winter Tires
I’m thinking of buying winter tires for my Subaru this season. The dealer recommended I mount them on an extra set of rims. The cost for the rims, approximately $250. What are your thoughts?
Great idea to mount your winter tires on extra rims. There are several advantages. Mounting and dismounting tires every season is costly and will damage the tires. Having a second set of wheels on the road in the harsh weather will avoid damaging expensive summer threads, plus you save a lot of time when it comes to switch over season. The cost of the rims should be recovered after the second winter. Good investment.
Snow Tires 1
I’m a new driver and this is my first serious winter. Can you explain snow tires? I drive a 2004 Honda Civic and commute to the city daily. As we enter the digital age the word-snow tire is no longer used.
As vehicles became more sophisticated so did the tires. Now referred to as “winter-tires”, tires are specialized. Winter-tires are all about grip…(getting traction in adverse conditions) In the Canadian winter, driving conditions vary between deep snow to shear ice. Each condition is treated differently. Contact a competent tire installer and ask him the same question. One recommendation I can make, mount your tires on extra rims. This will avoid damage and simplify the installation and cost you less in the long run.
Snow Tires 2
Good afternoon, I used to own a 2002 Honda Civic LX. For two winter now I changed to snow tires sizes 185/65/15. My question, I purchased a 2009 Honda Civic DX and decided not to give away my snow tires. My new car has a tires size of 195/65/15. Can I still use them when winter comes?
The tires your putting on are smaller than the spec tire for the car. Physically the tires will work as long as we are installing 4 tires. The smaller tire will affect the speedo readings and shift points on the transmission. Try them, feels “ok” go for it. In a perfect world replace the units with the spec size tire.
Snow Tires?
I’m a new driver and my first Ontario winter is coming. Can you explain if I should buy snow tires. I have a Honda Civic and commute daily.
Marie
As we enter the digital age the word snow tire is no longer used. Tires are specialized and now referred to as winter-tires. Winter-tires are all about grip…(getting traction in adverse conditions) In the Canadian winter, driving conditions vary between deep snow to shear ice. Each condition is treated differently. Contact a competent tire installer and ask him the same question. One recommendation I can make, mount your tires on extra rims. This will avoid damage and simplify the installation. I would start shopping tires in the early fall when dealers will have more choices.
4x4 Tire Wear
I read where you said the four wheel drive doesn't cost much more for maintenance. I don’t think you are right. My 92 Ford Explorer seems to get the front end out of line more than usual. I don't notice it until the tires start to wear. Could it be that they don't stay in line like a 4x2 or am I not rotating the tires enough.
I remember that comment. It was comparing light SUV’s like the Honda CRV to light vehicles. Fords have always been tough on front ends... The Explorer is a truck, based on the Ranger series and shouldn't be compared to the Hondas, Mazda’s etc. These mini-utes are car based. The truck based vehicles are more rugged and heavy. They require regular tire pressure testing and rotation. So in fact, you are correct in your diagnoses. Lack of tire pressure was the main reason for all those Firestone failures in the late 90's ..... lack of pressure will overheat the tire, inhibit it’s ability to carry weight, reduce the vehicles braking effect and prematurely wear the tire. The answer here is to be more aware of the you tires.
Tire Replacement Time
Most companies have the opinion that tires should be replaced after approximately six years. Correct? My question being, I have a 1998 New Beetle I put snow tires on every fall. Therefore my original summer tires, are only on for about six months of the year. I hate to throw them out. My only concern, is wondering when they are going to give out.
John, Toronto
I don't think the tires would blow out as much as they loose grip The six year recommendation on tire replacement is for units that are out in the weather all year long. Usually after six years in the field the tires are worn out anyway...Based on your using the tires only 6 months of the year I don't think you should have a problem squeezing another season out of them. After that I would replace them. Better still take them to a reputable dealer and get their opinion.
ETC
Undercoating
I have a 2000 Mazda Protégé. I have never had it undercoated. Assumed it was done at the factory. But the other day when I was washing it I thought it looked rusty underneath. Is it worth it at this point to have it undercoated now? I plan to keep the car for several more years
Mazda is a good quality car and should give you at least another five years of care free service.
Undercoating the vehicle will not only stop that rusty look, it will lubricate the suspension and other components mounted under the vehicle. I recommend an annual application such as Krown Body Maintenance. Krown uses an oil spray that is applied under pressure. The application is relatively cheap and is well worth the investment.
Transmission Fluid
I was having some issues with my transmission when it was really cold it was slipping, so I went in for an oil change. I had the person check my transmission fluid, it was black and they told me that I should get a transmission flush which I did but now the transmission is really bad. I drive a 1996 Mercury Mystique and it has only around 160,000 kms on it. Have I made a big mistake??? And, will it improve??
I have run into this several times. The black fluid was full of iron filings that had the effect of increasing the viscosity of the oil. The increased viscosity (thicker) made up for the wear in the transmission. Note: the transmission will have to be rebuilt eventually. In the mean time use a product called Lucas Transmission Treatment. Start saving money for a new tranny.
Vehicle Preservation
My Honda is now reaching it’s 15th anniversary. I like the car and would like to keep it on the road another few years. What’s my next step?
Best advice is to have the vehicle audited. Get your tech to spend some quality time with the car and give you a shopping list as to what is required to reach your goal.
Used Car Maintenance
I was wondering if you would be able to advise me about my current car situation. I am a female 25 years old with no experience with cars. I need to know the basic requirements in order to maintain the car for the year. I have just purchased a 1995 Chevy Cavalier. I bought it from my friend for $500. I am changing the engine on it, and want to make sure it lasts from this point on. Most people say you just need to get the oil changed every 5 months. I happen to know that it takes more than that. I want to know what you recommend for me to maintain the car.
Before you take back the car with the replacement engine have your tech go through the entire car. Have him report to you on the condition of the chassis, brakes, cooling system, heating system etc. Have everything brought up to spec now before you start to need the car on a regular basis. The Chevy Cavalier is great first car. Easy to keep on the road because it's relatively simple and the parts are cheap. You are correct in mentioning that the oil should be changed every 5000km. I always recommend four oil changes a year. Get to know the shop you are dealing with. Make sure you are comfortable with the staff and most importantly make sure they understand your requirements. Basically this car should have two going-overs (if that's a word) a year. Going into the winter driving season and coming out of the winter season. Be sure to
have the vehicle oil sprayed. Doesn't really matter when. Once a year should do. We like to use Krown Body Maintenance. Their product is beneficial not only to the body work but also the stuff under the car. Brakelines, cables and suspension components all reside under the car. Lastly keep the car clean with regular washing. Although this unit is over 13 years old you should still have many years of service left if you keep up the maintenance. We serviced a 1987 Acura today... still on the road and looking fine.
When to Change Oil
I’m confused about when to change my oil? I have heard some manufactures recommend oil changes at 25,000 kms …that doesn’t sound right to me ….what gives
Regards, a loyal listener
Dear Loyal; Oil is not just made of oil (base stock) but is a blend of chemicals including anti foam and anti rust agents. The base stock never wears out, the oil becomes contaminated with use and the additives are used up. I have always recommended 8000kms or 4 months as a guideline. Oil not only lubricates the engine it cleans and cools. Oil changes are the best thing you can do for your car and still affordable. Check the oil level every second fill…….. it’s good thing.
Accessory Shut Off
My husband keeps reminding me to turn everything off before I shut of the engine when I park my car. Is this necessary? Everything stops when turn off the key…
Caller on show
Well even though he is a man, he’s actually right. Although; all accessories shut off with key in modern cars the do come on when you initially turn on the key. Not that important in the summer, but it’s a different story in the winter. Frozen wipers can literally tear themselves to pieces. A cold blast from a heater left on high is also thrilling. Battery power is at a premium when it 30 below. Batteries loose up to 50% cranking power at those temperatures. Vehicles need all the power available on cold morning startups. Shutting off the accessories? Not a bad idea.
Car Whistle and Hum
I just picked up a 2000 Cherokee limited. When I drive down the highway I get a mix between a hum and a whistle. You can’t hear it at all under 60mph. You can barely hear it when accelerating from about 65 and up but when I let off the gas you can hear it clearly.. Does anyone know what might cause this?
Lori
There may be nothing wrong at all with your truck. Remember this is a truck and there's is alot going on under the floor-boards. 4x4’s carry extra axles, locking hubs and transfercases that car’s just don’t have. I would ask a tech to road test the vehicle and give you his opinion.
Locked CD player
I have a 1998 Honda Accord V6. Recently the alternator gave up and as a result I had it changed. Now the radio/CD player does not work and it displays the word CODE. How can I get the code to unlock the unit. I don’t have the manual that came with the car nor do I know at which dealer the car was first purchased. What should I do?
Janak
When power is disrupted to the radio it locks and an access code is required to unlock the unit. The code is supplied on a card and kept in a separate location. The selling dealer also keeps a record. This is done in to prevent the use of stolen radios. Don’t know the selling dealer? Contact HONDA directly.
Overfilled coolant
I overfilled the expansion (coolant overflow) reservoir with a coolant, so that the level of the fluid is about an inch and a half above the line where it should be. Should I drain out the excess fluid or the cooling system have a safety vent for excess pressure or is there a danger that the tank will blow up?
Not to worry. The expansion tank will vent directly to the atmosphere....The radiator is sealed and pressurized. Usually the pressure is set at 16 psi. Venting is done by the cap which is set at 16 or what ever pressure is called for by the manufacturer. Why is the system pressurized? The higher the pressure the higher the boiling point. By increasing pressure of the fluid we are able to deal with more heat without boiling over...Kinda cheating mother- nature. Water boils at 212 degrees....a lot of cars run at 220 under load quite safely.
Best Rate of Speed
He's my question: about a thousand years ago, before fuel injection, computerized this, that and the other thing, even before the automatic transmission, the golden rule for the best rate of speed for the best fuel consumption was to drive at a steady fifty-five miles per hour. Is it still the same, or does it now depend on things like super chargers, air conditioning, or whatever?
Frank
Speed Costs! The faster you go the more it costs. I would suggest cruising just under 110 kms for max performance. (also there’s less chance of getting pulled over). Rule Two... Cheaper to use A/C on the hwy with the windows closed then A/C off and the windows open. The extra drag caused by the lowered widows makes the vehicle less efficient and wastes fuel. Rule Three....Drive like there is an egg between your foot and the accelerator. Easy on and easy off. Keep a steady pace on the HWY. and avoid jack rabbit starts.
Follow these basic rules and not only will you save gas you will reduce wear on you car. However; your social life my suffer due to on set of acute boredom.
Self Servicing
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 cannot 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.
Timing Belt Replacement Time?
I have a 2000 Chrysler Neon which has 102,000 kms on it. I’m wondering when I must replace the timing belt. I read on the internet that 2000+ Neons don’t need new belts until they reach 100,000 miles. Could you please advise when I should be looking after this? Seems there are different opinions. However, I want to do what is best for the car.
Erika
Timing belt replacement is one of the good things you can do for your car. The belt is used to rotate the camshaft on overhead valve engines. Belts offered engineers a simple solution to what was a complex problem, keeping the cam timed over a long period of service. Timing belts have been in used in engines since the late 60’s. Belts are robust, however; if the belt should break the damage that results will destroy the engine. According to the service schedules I have, the belt should be changed at 168,000 KMS. However; we advise owners not to let the belts run past 6 years. The rubber has a tendency to degrade over time and use.
Removing the Cooler
I own a 2000 Chrysler Intrepid I just recently punctured the cooler for power steering on my car So I removed the cooler altogether from my car I live in Newfoundland where the temperature barely rises above 25 degrees Celsius I was wondering with the cooler taken off would it do any damage to the power steering on my car I would greatly appreciate an answer Bob.
Thanks for your question....Although the ambient temperature is 25 C, the temp under the hood is alot higher.
High fluid temperatures will eventually damage the seals, both in the pump and steering assembly. I’ve learned over the years that manufactures don't put anything of their cars that they don't need. Remember if you can save 1 dollar per car and you build a millions of them ...well you can figure the rest out. Be smart replace the cooler.
Lift Gate Locked
I have a 2000 Odyssey with the lift gate locked shut. Nothing I have tried has opened it. The dealer says he needs about an hour and will probably damage the interior panel. Do you have any suggestions?
dave
This type of vehicle suffers from the rear lock actually seizing due to lack of lubrication. Dust works it's way into the mechanism and causes corrosion. This will jam the lock mechanism. For starters I would lubricate the handle by spraying it liberally with penetratant and working it. Failing that, you to have to remove the inside panel and release the lock. The charges the dealer quoted are quite normal for this type of work.
Servicing
I am a customer at a dealership in Ajax . I have been bringing my 2002 Alero there since 2007. When I brought my car in last week on Nov 11th (2010) I was told I had to replace a right/front hub wire and my water pump. The only symptoms on the car were the warning lights (no physical symptoms). In March 2008 my entire right/front hub assembly was replaced and in April 2010 my water pump was replaced. I understand the hub is no longer under warranty but my water pump was under warranty and they fixed the leak. Had I not mentioned anything they would have replaced my water pump again and charged me for it. I was told that it is MY responsibility to know what has been fixed on my car and to catch anything that may be under warranty.
Good service no matter if cars, or the furnace in your house, relays on good communications.
A service provider has an obligation to perform “best practice”. That is supplying the best service the can with the information and abilities at hand. A dealer servicing a vehicle for over three years would have service records readily available and has an obligation to check those records before contacting the customer with their recommendations.
Questions you should be asking, are there any outstanding recalls on my car? Have you checked the TSB files (technical service bulletins) I have record of over 1100 of them. What should I be doing to service my car on a regular basis? Will you the dealer..contact me when it’s time to come in.
If you are planning to stay with these folks, I would contact the service manager and have a heart to heart. Don’t hear what you feel are the right answers ….leave, find a new home.
