Ask the Auto Doctor
Q : I need a new car I can fit into comfortably and that my wife can drive. I loved my test-drive of the Chevy Traverse, but it’s too big for my wife to drive. She loves the small Ford Focus, but I’m a big guy. Can you suggest something we should look at? — Bill
A : The easiest way to find a vehicle that may fit your needs is go to a very large automotive retailer in your area. They usually have big lots with a large variety of late-model vehicles. Second, if you do find a vehicle that you like and the driver’s seat needs to be moved either forward or backwards, then have a technician look at the seat frame to see if it’s possible to move it either way. Some seats have more travel than others.
Q : I’m interested in buying a new Jeep Wrangler and would like your advice. I saw a Rubicon and liked almost
everything, except the all-terrain tires. They seemed like they would be noisy and have a rough ride. What are your thoughts? — Steve
A : You’re correct; the Rubicon is a serious off-road Wrangler. If you do not plan on driving off road, then move to the Sahara. I do like the automatic versus the manual transmission. I have owned many Wranglers over the years and they have great resale value.
Q : My 2013 Hyundai Elantra has 41,000 miles. I went to start engine, and it kept stalling. I tried four or five times, and unless I pumped the accelerator, the engine would stall. After waiting about an hour it started right up and ran normally. Stalling was common with carburetor engines, but fuel-injected engines? Could there be a trouble code to indicate a potential problem? — Michael
A : Many electronic possibilities can cause engine stalling and
drivability issues without setting the check engine light. Dirty throttle body, carbon deposits, lazy EGR valves, dirty idle air control motors, and more.
Q : I own a 2009 Acura TL. In the last year I have been battling with keeping air in the back tires. Front tires maintain the proper air pressure, but the two rear tires do not. After about 30 days or so the pressure drops from 32 psi to 25 psi. I have replaced all four tires with new ones, but have the same problem. My mechanic cannot find any leaks. Can you help? — Tom
A : The most common air loss problems are caused from rim corrosion at the tire seal area and valve stem. Whenever we need to check a leaking tire we always use a good soap, such as Dawn liquid and water. The smallest leak will show up with small bubbles.