Mike the Car Guy – April 13th, 2013
Why So Expensive?
I have a 2005 Mercedes C320 that needs brakes. My shop tells me that the brake rotors cannot be resurfaced and must be replaced. I hope it is not true because it costs big bucks. Please say is ain’t so. Thanks Billy.
Mike: Billy, Welcome to the world of German car brakes. Yes, it is best to replace the rotors because they are soft and wear out as fast as the pads. Of course, they work so well that most owners consider it one of the costs of having a world class car. Almost all European cars are expensive to repair, that is why some shops shy away from them.
Engine Light On:
Linda writes: Hi Mike, I have an engine light showing on my Ford Windstar. My nephew works at an auto parts store and has a device that can read the computer codes. He said the problem was the ECT sensor. Trying to save money, my husband bought the part and replaced it. Then, the light came on again. What do we check for next? It is okay to drive?
Mike: Linda, without any training, using this code reader is going to cost you more than taking it to the dealer. The code reader is telling you that there is a problem in the data sent to the computer by the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. Often, the sensor is telling you that the engine is not warming up fast enough for optimum emissions. This can be caused by several components in the cooling system. Perhaps the thermostat is staying open? Perhaps the cooling fans running too long? A trained technician needs to look at the data stream determine what is going on. Driving the vehicle with this problem could damage your catalytic converters and cost you big money. Get it looked at asap.
Failed Emissions Test My 48k mile, 2010 CRV failed state inspection because of an emissions problem. Do I have to take it to the dealer for repair? Are they more expensive? Thanks for the help Don.
Mike: Don, you’d be crazy to take it anywhere ELSE but the dealer because they most likely will fix it for free. The federally mandated warranty for most emissions components is 8 years / 80,000 miles. –MH
Here is a tip:
Have your service tech visually check your drive belts (or belt in most cases) every other oil change. I don’t know any shop that charges to check, and it is really important. A broken belt can disable the engines water pump, alternator, and power steering. Please get it checked for the summer season. -MH
I want to answer your questions on the radio! My radio program, “In Wheel Time” airs Saturdays 9:00-Noon on Yahoo Sports 1560. The call in number is 713-439-1560. You can also listen or watch streaming video live on our website: www.inwheeltime.com. Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/inwheeltime
Mike is an ASE Certified Master Technician and auto shop owner for 31 years. If you have questions or comments, E mail me: mikeh@inwheeltime.com or go to www.inwheeltime.com to read more articles.
Mike the Car Guy – 02/27/13
Stalling Chevy? I have a 125k mile, 2001 Chevy Silverado 1500 truck that dies sometimes when I turn right. It only happens three times a week, and it starts right back up, but the problem is driving me crazy. Otherwise, it runs great. Any ideas what is wrong? Thanks, Dennis.
Mike: Dennis, I would recommend cleaning your vehicle’s throttle body. It sounds like the throttle plate has become dirty and starving the engine for air when it snaps closed and sticks. I would recommend getting a BG induction cleaning. This way, the entire intake and fuel injection system will be clean. With that amount of mileage, it is surely going to help tremendously. You will be amazed what clean injectors will do to drivability.
Alternator Problems, Help! I have a 2004 Saturn with a charging problem. I replaced the alternator in December, and had to replace once since then. (Luckily, I bought a rebuilt one with a lifetime warranty.) The failures were only costing me time and convenience until it quit charging and I had to be towed in. ($120 Ouch!) Now, the low cost auto parts store alternator has gotten expensive. Worse yet, the charge light is flickering again. What should I do? Thanks for the advice, Tom.
Mike: Tom, it sounds like you have learned your lesson about those rebuilt “lifetime” alternators. I shy away from anything with a “lifetime” warranty for the exact reason you just experienced. Go and ask for a refund on that unit and then buy a remanufactured Delco alternator, and move on. The parts store won’t make as much money, and you will pay a little more, but you won’t be stranded either. The reason they give a lifetime warranty is because of the obscenely high failure rate. Always buy OE parts when it comes to electrical, tune up, or brake parts.
Here is a tip: When buying parts, shy away from buying “rebuilt” and ask for a “remanufactured” unit. A remanufactured part is one that is as close to being brand new that you can get. Remanufactured parts are completely brought back to original specifications with all of the wear items replaced with new. This is the best way to avoid doing the job a second time. Quality repair shops will only use reman parts. So should you.
I want to answer your questions on the radio! My radio program, “In Wheel Time” airs Saturdays 9:00-Noon on Yahoo Sports 1560. The call in number is 713-439-1560. You can also listen or watch streaming video live on our website: www.inwheeltime.com. Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/inwheeltime
Mike is an ASE Certified Master Technician and auto shop owner for 31 years. If you have questions or comments, E mail me: mikeh@inwheeltime.com or go to www.inwheeltime.com to read more articles
Mike the Car Guy 11/14/2012
Expedition Front Wheels Turn Black
Victoria writes, every week my car’s front wheels turn black. My husband says that it is normal and to ignore it. That isn’t good enough for me. I have questions: What is it? Does ignoring it cause any damage to the wheels? How can I keep it clean? Can I make it not happen in the first place? Thanks for your help. I read your column every week!
Mike: I get this question often, and there is no easy answer. The black brake dust on your front wheels is the byproduct of your brake pads wearing against the brake rotor. As the organic pad material heats up, it burns, turns black, and sticks to the wheels. It is slightly corrosive, so it should be removed every few weeks. I use Eagle 1 wheel cleaner and then I use their sealer that makes the black dust wash away easily. Finally, there are new brake pads on the market that give off a clear type of dust that is hardly noticeable. On your next brake job, you might ask for them.
Window Stuck
Karl writes: I have a 2003 Yukon that the drivers window won’t roll up or down. My service guy says that my window regulator mechanism has failed. The parts are pricey, so is it a good idea to get one at a junk yard?
Mike: Kevin, since the driver’s window is used about four times more than any other, a used part isn’t the best way to go. On old ones, the plastic parts are brittle and break just like yours. I would go ahead and bite the bullet and get a new one that will work when you need it. Besides that, there is only a 30 day warranty on used parts and the labor isn’t covered by warranty.
Here is a holiday shopping tip: When going to the mall or shopping area, park in a well lighted area and make sure your car is locked and all valuables (GPS, electronics, and purchases) are completely out of sight! When returning to your vehicle, have your car keys in your hand and be aware of your surroundings. Walk with friends or family whenever you can. By all means, if you feel unsafe, don’t hesitate to ask for a security escort. There are a lot of bad guys out there so PLEASE be aware and be safe!
I encourage you to call and talk to me on the radio! My radio program, “In Wheel Time” airs Saturdays 9:00-Noon on Yahoo Sports Radio 1560. The call in number is: 713-439-1560. You can also listen or watch streaming video live on our website: www.inwheeltime.com. Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/inwheeltime
Mike is an ASE Certified Master Technician and auto shop owner for 31 years. If you have questions or comments, E mail me: mikeh@inwheeltime.com or go to www.inwheeltime.com to read more articles.
Mike the Car Guy – 10/30/2012
Headlight Lenses Fogged
Richard writes, I have a 2004 Honda Civic that has those fogged up plastic headlight lenses you talk about. Is there any way to repair that short of replacing them?
Mike: Richard, There are several places that claim they can polish them clear again, but I haven’t seen any that work well. I would look on EBay or Amazon.com for aftermarket replacements. They are reasonably priced and will last for years. It is the best way to go.
Did I kill Our Toureg?
Kim writes, Not remembering it was a diesel, I added gasoline to my Husband’s VW Toureg TDI fuel tank. It immediately started sounding terrible and It doesn’t run now. I had it towed home. What do I do to get it going before he comes back in town from a business trip? My sons and I are trying to fix it ourselves to save money.
Mike: Kim, the fuel tank must be drained, and the filters replaced. You can siphon most of the fuel from the tank, however, disposal may be a problem. You can probably get your local repair shop to dispose of it properly for you for a small fee. After draining the tank, replace the fuel filter and the water separator filter. This isn’t rocket science, but you need to go to your parts store or dealer and get some instruction on how it’s done. Be sure to use Bosch or VW replacement filters to insure quality. Good luck!
Alternator Woes
Walter writes, I have a 2004 Tahoe with a V8 and 101k miles. I replaced the alternator 3 months ago with one from the parts house. I have had three of them fail since then, for no reason. They are lifetime warranted, but I keep getting stranded and being stuck with a wrecker fee. What should I do?
Mike: Walter: This is a common problem with “lifetime warranted” parts. Replace the alternator with a remanufactured one from AC Delco and your problems will be over. They give them warranties like that to keep you from complaining when you have to keep replacing them. If you always use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, you will be way ahead for only a few dollars more.
Here is a tip: Be sure to clean the debris from your windshield cowling every chance you get. This time of year, leaves and pine needles collect there and fall into your vent system. Odor causing bacteria will grow in your evaporator case and cause terrible smells as soon as it warms up. Just a tip!
I encourage you to call and talk to me on the radio! My radio program, “In Wheel Time” airs Saturdays 9:00-Noon on Yahoo Sports Radio 1560. The call in number is: 713-439-1560. You can also listen or watch streaming video live on our website: www.inwheeltime.com. Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/inwheeltime
Mike is an ASE Certified Master Technician and auto shop owner for 31 years. If you have questions or comments, E mail me: mikeh@inwheeltime.com or go to www.inwheeltime.com to read more articles.
Mike the Car Guy Tips and Advice
Tint problems!
Donna writes: I have a 2006 Chevy Trailblazer that has window tint coming off in places. Also, the rear window has turned purple and has bubbles in the tint. What can I do to fix this because it looks terrible and is hard to see out at night.
Mike: Donna, you will have to go to a tint shop and have hem remove the old tint and replace it. Make sure they use a quality tint with UV protection so it won’t turn color or bubble up. Sounds like you got a cut rate tint job, but luckily it can be fixed.
Bursting into Flames?
Miller writes: I have a bet with my Wife on this. On TV shows, you often see cars rolling over and bursting into flames. She says it isn’t likely to happen and I say it could happen easily. Who is rignt? It could cost me a month of doing dishes if they don’t!
Mike: Better get some rubber gloves buddy! Car companies put in several safeguards to keep the fuel in the tank on rollovers and not allow it to ignite.
From check valves in fuel tank filler necks, to automatic cutoffs on fuel pumps, cars are harder and harder to ignite. Engineers take data from thousands of accidents every year and use that knowledge to make their cars safer. Explosions rarely happen outside of Hollywood.
Here is a tip: Here is one of my biggest pet peeves. Don’t ignore your tires! It could cost you a tire if you run it low and possibly a lot more if it blows out. Every day I see a low tire that the driver is painfully unaware of. I try to tell them, but it doesn’t always work out. Here is what you do. Get a good tire gauge and check the tires once a week, but more importantly, learn how they are supposed to look when sitting. When you get in your car each morning, do a walk around, giving them a quick glance just to make sure you haven’t picked up a nail and have a low tire. If you have a low tire, and can catch it before you drive too far, then a little air will get you to the tire shop. Now that I’ve told you what to do, try it this evening or in the morning when you go out to the car. It’s a good habit to have.
If you like this column, you can hear more of the same on my Saturday morning radio program. “In Wheel Time” airs from 9:00-Noon on 1560 “The Game.” You can also listen or watch streaming video live on our website: www.inwheeltime.com. I also encourage you to “like” us on facebook (www.facebook.com/inwheeltime)
Mike is a ASE Certified Technician and auto shop owner for 31 years. If you have questions or comments, E mail me: mikeh@inwheeltime.com or go to www.inwheeltime.com to read more articles.
Mike’s Maintenance Tips for August 4, 2012
Ok to Change Oils?
Douglas writes, I have a couple of oil questions: Is it ok to change brands of oil after a couple of years? If it is ok, then will switching to Synthetic oil cause my engine seals to start leaking?
Mike: Great questions, and I’ve got some great answers: Yes, it is ok to switch brands as long as both meet the same specifications. (Ex: both are premium oils) The oil leak from Synthetic oil myth was started YEARS ago when the first Synthetic oils were introduced into an older engine. Since then, oil companies have added special additives to oils to soften the seals and prevent this from happening. Go ahead and switch, you’ll be glad you did.
Slow Shifting Tahoe
Ed writes: I have a 2005 Tahoe with 93k miles. Lately, the transmission seems to not want to shift in the mornings. I have to let off the gas and wait until it decides to shift. After it warms up, it seems ok. Do you think dropping the pan and servicing the transmission will help? Is it time for an overhaul?
Mike: Ed, I would do a BG transmission flush before I did anything else. The BG service removes varnish in the valve body that could be causing problems. Then again, just flushing out that old, nasty, fluid could easily solve your problem too. The service does both, and it is a lot cheaper than an overhaul. If you repeat the flush every 30k miles, it will help your transmission last a lot longer. Go to www.bgfindashop.com to find someone near you that can do it for you these services.
Here is a tip: Do your homework when looking for a shop or service department. First, ask your friends and family whom they use, then stop by and visit the facility before your car needs repair. Look for a neat, well-organized shop, as well as posted signs about their services, labor and diagnostic charges, and most importantly, their warranty. Look around for signs of community involvement such as plaques or certificates. Do they have a customer shuttle? Do they take credit cards? See if they seem to be a good fit for you. If possible, let them perform a small job for starters, just to see how they do. If that doesn’t work, e mail Me and I’ll give you a recommendation.
If you like this column, you can hear more of the same on my Saturday morning radio program. “In Wheel Time” airs from 9:00-Noon on 1560 “The Game.” You can also listen or watch streaming video live on our website: www.inwheeltime.com. I also encourage you to “like” us on facebook (www.facebook.com/inwheeltime)
Mike is a ASE Certified Technician and auto shop owner for 31 years. If you have questions or comments, E mail me: mikeh@inwheeltime.com or go to www.inwheeltime.com to read more articles.
Mike’s Tire Advice Conversation
Tire Light On
Millie writes: I just had the tires replaced on my 2007 Impala and now the tire pressure light is staying on. Do I have to reset it or something?
Mike: Millie, you shouldn’t have to reset it. My best guess is that the tire shop damaged one of your wheel sensors when installing the tires. It is easy to damage and easy to fix. Take it back to the tire shop and have them recheck it.
More Tire Questions
Coleen writes: I have a 2011 Toyota Venza with a V6 and 24k miles. My tires are worn out and I need to buy new ones. I absolutely love the way the original tires performed, except for how long they lasted. I have heard you talk about the way the tires are designed for the vehicle, but I need them to last longer. What do I do?
Mike: Coleen, when vehicle manufacturers set the requirements for the original tires, they don’t specify a wear mileage requirement. That means that the replacements tires may have the same model numbers as the original equipment ones, but will last much longer.
The difference has to do with special ingredients in the rubber compound. I once had a pair of replacement Goodyear Wranglers last 45k miles when the exact same original tires only lasted 30k miles. This is why I don’t buy “take off” tires from the tire shops anymore. (tires replaced on new vehicles) They won’t last as long.
Check under the hood! Checking under the hood occasionally can head off little problems before they become big ones. If you are unsure, your owner’s manual will have a section on under hood checks for reference. Heed all safety warnings and any warning stickers that may be under the hood. Most everything under the hood will be hot, so be careful. Except for transmission fluid level, all checks should be done while the engine is turned off.
If the engine is running, don’t put your hands near any belts or fans unless you want to be called “Stubby”. If you are not comfortable with doing any of this, stop by any dealer or service center and whey should do it for free. The secret is to do it.
I invite you to listen to my radio program on Saturday mornings from 10:00-Noon (new time!) on KGOW 1560 “The Game” starting March 3, 2012. The show is called “In Wheel Time.” You can also listen live on our website: www.inwheeltime.com. I also encourage you to “like” us on facebook underwww.facebook.com/InWheelTime
Thanks!
Mike is a ASE Certified Technician and auto shop owner for 31 years.
