AAA CAR DOCTOR JOHN PAUL 1/19/2001

January Chat What Ails Your Car

John Paul
The Car Doctor is in

eagle
Every once in awhile when I start my car, it makes this grinding sound like the starter isn't engaging. I had it in the service station for the starter to be checked and they told me the negative charge on the battery had a loose connection. They tightened it, but it is still doing the same thing once in awhile. Could it be corosion in the connection? Thanks.

John Paul
eagle, if it is a grinding noise I would suspect the starter or the ring gear. The best inspection would be to remove the starter and check all parts concerned. A loose battery cable would perhaps cause a clicking noise

Scott
I took my car in for repair and among things they stated that I needed a new tire rod. Well, I'm short on funds at the time so I'm wondering how important is a tire rod or how long can I go before having it replaced.

John Paul
Scott, A tie rod end is very important. It connects the steering wheel to the front wheels(there are other parts as well) If the tie rod end is badly worn and it breaks you can lose control of your car

Bob
I have a 97 Dodge Stratus,It has a Oil leak thru head gasket,how serious is this

John Paul
Bob, A oil leak at the head gasket is most dangerous if you don't watch the oil level. Dodge has come out with a improved head gasket design to fix an on-going problem. Check with the dealer for a chance of some type of warranty

uphill battle
i have a 90 Toyota Corolla All-Trac wagon (auto) with 93,000 miles. my car tends to have some difficulty when driving uphill on the highway. when i approach a moderate incline, my car slows down 15-20 mph. i step on the gas to maintain speed but i find myself pressing all the way down on the accelerator with little or no change. what could be wrong?

John Paul
uphill battle, When new that model wasn't a powerhouse. Have the repair shop check the catalytic convertor and consider de-carbonizing the engine. Carbon build up will certainly cause low power

Parent
My 20 year old son is interested in becoming an automotive technician. Can you reccomend a school that will provide the classes that are needed to repair today's cars?

John Paul
Parent, Some of the college have great program in conjuction with vehicle manufacturers. Ford has Asset with Blackstone Valley in Upton, GM toyota has program with Mass. Bay in Wellsley. There is a great need for technician and a good tech can almost write their own paycheck.

Yankee Lady
What causes rotors to warp? Is this excessive wear and tear on brakes, or can they be defective on their own?

John Paul
Yankee Lady, Rotors warp due to getting hot then cold. If you "ride" your brakes you can warp the rotors. Over tightening wheel lugs can cause the same problem. And in some cases agressive driving can be the problem.

jdw
water leaks in from the door frame, between joints. would silicone do the job of sealing it?

John Paul
jdw, check the door gasket. If the gasket is damaged water could leak in. There are drain holes in the door that allow the water to drain out. Water could also leak in from poorly done body work

no clue about cars
I have an old 90 Ford Escort with 125k miles on it. The check engine light repeatedly comes on, then will shut off again. Is it bad to keep driving with the light on? What could it be? I've consistently had the fluids checked.

John Paul
no clue, When the check engine light is on it indicates a failure with the computer controlled fuel system. Driving with the light on is costing you more for gas and polluting the air. It could also cause more damage.

Gotter
The gas mileage on my '98 Jeep Grand Cherokee has dropped from averaging 22-23mpg highway new to more like 18-19 now. Is this normal? If not, what can I do? Thanks!

John Paul
Gotter, In winter you can usually expect a little drop in milage. Although 15% is a little steep unless you warm up your car for very long times on cold mornings. Consider a diagnostic check to see if the car is performing up to standards

girlsketch26
My car shakes when I go up to 60 MPH. Do I need an alignment?

John Paul
girlsketch26, You need to have the tires and suspension checked. A out of balance tire is usually the problem

Jesse
I travel to\from work every day 70 miles each way. What are some of the most important things I should do to keep my car in good condition

John Paul
Jesse, Keep flares, flashlight, snow brush, warm clothes, a good spare and a working jack, gloves, oil winshield washer. With wireless phone you can always call for help

Raven
I've noticed that the my 1994 Dodge Caravan has been emmitting more exhaust than usual. The smoke is white to blueish in color. I just had a oil change a few weeks ago. Is there a problem with my van? Should I be concerned?

John Paul
Raven, There has been a problem with the 3.0 liter engine buring oil. this usually happens over 80,000 miles. the repair is to replace the valve seals with a improved design

Mark
I know I need brakes because they are grinding when I step on the pedal, I need to know if I can still drive it or if they will lock up and for how long

John Paul
Mark, The longer you drive the more expensive and dangerous it will get. You should fix your car as soon as possible.

Wondering
Been thinking about buying an Olds Alero but am wondering if there is a big downside in pruchasing from a company that's being phased out. They are offering some nice incentives to buy.

John Paul
Wondering, This may be the best time to buy an Oldsmobile. Great incentives, extended warranty through any GM dealer Of the Olds line up the Alero is my least favorite,It is a little noisey and doesn't get great milage for a smaller car. look at the Intrigue as an alternative

Moderator
All of your questions have been great. One last question and then the doctor is out! Go to http://boston.com/cars/ to get more car advice, sell your car online, or search for a new/used car. Thanks!

Peter
My '96 Chevy Lumina needs a new oil pan cover. I'm told it's a labor intensive job which can take up to 6 hours (and over $500.00) to repair Does this seem accurate to you?

John Paul
Peter, the oil pan gasket is a time consuming repair reqiuring lifting the engine and removing the exhaust system.

John Paul
The Car Doctor will be back next month if you want to send me a message my email is jpaul@aaasne.com