Ask the Auto Doctor
Q : I have a 2004 Nissan Murano. The AWD light stays on, and after testing we discovered only the right rear wheel has power to it. It’s the only wheel that spins in gravel. Any ideas what the problem could be? Am I causing any damage by driving it? — Nick
A: All fault codes need to be performed first. The technician will follow the trouble path for the fault code. The problem could be as simple as a faulty ABS sensor. This is why going to a qualified technician is so important on today’s computer-controlled vehicles. The technician will follow wiring diagrams on Alldata, as well as use the Identifix professional site or even speak with an Identifix technician for help. As for doing any damage driving the vehicle in this condition, no additional problems should arise.
Q :My 2010 Honda CR-V with the 2.4-liter engine has 60,000 miles on it. I would like to change the brake and power steering fluids. Is it okay to drain the reservoirs with turkey basters? — Joe
A : We use suction tools every day for removing power steering and brake fluid, but remember, you must always use a separate suction tool for each fluid. Never mix the suction tools. Just a small amount of petroleum fluid into the master cylinder could damage the entire brake system, including the ABS assembly.
Q (I down think while it : 40,000 a is My defective the part 1998 car #9367071). miles is Corvette traction being on the driven The Coupe, control odometer, module and with module resets shuts has only when off the the dashboard engine is warning off. When light the comes system on shuts and the digital readouts repeat “service engine soon” and “service active handling.” I had diagnostics performed on the car twice by two different auto mechanics; both concurred that the module is the problem and stated that General Motors no longer supports this older module, due to its defective design, and that it is impossible to get a replacement. Can you help me? — Harvey
A: There are many companies that rebuild discontinued electronic modules. You can also check major Corvette suppliers, such as Mid America Motorworks at 800-5001500. They may also be able to advise you, if they do not have it in stock.
Q :I midsize the am car in will the sedan. market be used For the for sparingly first a four-cylinder few — years about 8,000 miles per year and mostly short trips around town. Should I avoid turbocharged engines due to the possibility of not getting up to proper engine temps and the lubrication issues pertaining to the turbo? Can this problem be avoided by more frequent oil changes and a specific type of oil? — John
A : generally This is a used great on topic. small-displacement Turbochargers are four-cylinder engines to add power and improve fuel economy, and on performance engines they bring lots of additional power. If you find a vehicle you like with a turbocharged engine, then feel free to buy the vehicle with no concerns. The use of full-synthetic oil is mandatory on turbocharged engines, as well as on a lot of new vehicles. Some turbocharged engines suggest the use of premium gasoline to get optimum power. The new Toyota Camry V-6 offers around 300 horsepower and great gas mileage. Most midsize imports are going to smaller turbo and some twinturbo engines. Buy the car you like and that best fits your needs.
Q : decided Having to always lease been a Lexus a Honda for a change. man I What’s up with the eight-speed transmission on these vehicles? At slow speeds the thing shifts way too fast and when I take my foot off the gas for a second, like in traffic situations, then press it again, it hits a dead spot, and then lurches. The programming seems somewhat confused as to what it should be doing. Have you heard any similar complaints? —Ned
A : You are not alone. Many of the sevento 10-speed automatics have owners concerned about the shifting, both up and down. It will take car manufacturers a year or so to figure out a reprogramming update. You can talk to the dealer about disconnecting the battery for an hour or so, which will put the transmission in a learning mode on your driving habits. This has made a difference on many vehicles and it does not cost anything but time.
Q : My 1995 Mercury Grand Marquis has a whining sound from under the hood. The sound changes with engine speed. What’s causing the noise?
A : Have a technician look at both the power steering pump and alternator and use a stethoscope to listen to belt-driven accessories.