Dear Tom: Intermittent no-start conditions can be hard to locate without any information. Here are a few suggestions. Hook up a simple spark tester to any spark plug. The testers cost about $10 in most auto parts store. The small lead wire from the tester can be left either on the dash, or taped to the corner of the windshield. Also, check two relays that do wear out: One is the power relay and the other is for the fuel pump. The replacement relays must have the same part number.
Dear Doctor: Recently I took my 2001 Chevy Blazer with 32,000 miles to the dealer because of a couple of strange noises. One was a crackling sound from the rear like squeezing an aluminum can, and a water swishing sound behind the glove box. They could not find the noise from the rear. They said the noise from behind the glove box area was the water pump. I gave the go-ahead for the water pump replacement. When I went to pick up the truck, I asked for the old water pump. They said there was a core charge for it. I paid the core charge for the pump. A few days later the swishing noise came back. I tested the pump at my work and there was no leakage and the impeller was fine. Was I ripped off? Debbie
Dear Debbie: The swishing sound behind the glove box is coolant flowing through the heater core. There may be some air in the system. To fix this, a small restrictor can be added into either heater hose. I do not think the dealer ripped you off; rather, the technician made a mistake. You should be entitled to a refund. As for a core charge on a new part, some companies do charge for a core on a new part so they can build an inventory of remanufactured parts. The replacement of new bolts is another issue. On some part replacements, new hardware is recommended. The noise from the rear will need to be checked for the source. Have the rear bakes checked for any rust or broken hardware.
Dear Doctor: I purchased a 2002 Ford Ranger program truck 3.0-liter V-6 engine with an automatic transmission. The engine makes a noise like a belt problem, which is worse when it rains. I took the car back to the dealer. He said they fixed it, but the noise is still there. Penny
Dear Penny: Take the truck into the dealer or any other shop when the noise is present. Have the technician disconnect the belt to verify the noise is belt-related. I replace a lot of automatic belt tensioners, and sometimes even go with the next size smaller belt. Always ask the technician to clean the pulleys with a clean cloth and carburetor cleaner. Never use any chemicals to lubricate the belts or pulleys.
Dear Doctor: With the price of fuel so high I am looking for ways to gain fuel mileage. I ran across an advertisement for a product that hooks into the PCV system for both gas and diesel engines. The product claims increased fuel mileage, lower emissions, and reduced engine wear. What are your thoughts? Amos
Dear Amos: Yes, the price of fuel is high, so a lot of fuel saving devices will show up on the market. I have seen them all, and all the claims they make. There are water-mist types that hook into the PCV system, magnets that attach to the gas or diesel line, additives for both oil and gas, and devices that swirl the incoming air into the engine. To date, I have never seen any of these items work. Synthetic oil, proper maintenance and correct air pressure are your best bet for maximum fuel mileage.
Dear Doctor: We own a 2002 Kia Sedona, which we purchased new in August 2001. Current mileage is 37,427. While driving on the highway a loud backing noise started. We pulled over and called for a tow to the dealer. The dealer replaced the engine and said a couple of connecting rod bolts were loose when the engine was taken apart. I have always serviced the minivan according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Why and how could this happen? Ronda
Dear Ronda: Engine failure is less common today than just five years ago. However, an occasional internal engine failure will happen. The loose bolts you describe were an oversight at the time of assembly. Today's lubricants are very good and can often extend the life of a bearing.
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