ASK THE AUTO DOCTOR
Q: I bought a new car with automatic start/ stop technology. Prior to this, when not in heavy traffic as the traffic light ahead turned red I’d take my foot off the accelerator and glide to the light to conserve fuel. With this new start/stop technology, is doing my same procedure effective, as opposed to stopping at the light and allowing the engine to shut down?— Steve.
A: I recommend that when you come to a light and the engine shuts off, consider it all the better for the gas mileage. I know the start/stop feature really bothers a lot of drivers and some look for ways to cancel out this feature. Some vehicles actually have an off/on button for this feature.
Q: I own a 2015 Corvette with some chips on the hood from highway stones. Short of going to the body shop, are there any paint products I can buy that will match the paint? — Jay.
A: I had a similar problem with my own car. I contacted a company called Automotive Touchup. They asked for the paint code (located inside the drive door frame on most vehicles). You can always call the parts department at your dealership and give them the VIN and they will give you the paint code. The paint kit comes with all you need, including five grits of sand paper, brushes, primer, paint and clear to finish the job. You also get support from the company. Go to automotivetouchup.com or call 888710-5192. The product is user-friendly, affordable, works well, and the paint color does match.
Q: My 1999 Honda Accord stalled out, so a mechanic gave it a tuneup, plus a new battery. The next day the engine died, but re-started and everything seemed fine. Then the following day it died and wouldn’t move. A mechanic said I needed a fuel pump. Two days later the car died again and the mechanic installed a main relay and ignition switch. What’s your opinion on all of this? — Brett.
A: The first step is to check for fault codes in the computer. My next step is to check on with Identifix and Alldata web sites for any history and information available. I would also connect a scan tool spark tester and fuel pressure tester to the car and when the engine stalls out I’d then be able to read the issues. Ignition switches and main relays are common faults on this car. Electric fuel pump failure is very rare on this car.