Dave Redinger's The Neighborhood Mechanic 1/09/06

At the time of this writing we are in the midst of the warmest winter on record across North America. Many people think that a warmer winter would be better for their car. Nothing could be further form the truth. It’s on the days when everything warms up and then freezes at night that your car will corrode the most. The moisture and dirt that has worked it’s way into the panels and gaps has a tendency to stay wet. Metal doesn’t like moisture and the result is a prematurely rusted car. Solution; have the vehicle oil sprayed by a reliable rustproofer such as KROWN. Failing that wash the vehicle on a regular basis. Hint; if you’re washing your car with a hose, run the water along the base of the windshield near the fenders. Modern cars duct the water along the inside of the rockers to flush out the dirt that gets trapped inside.

I bought a 94 Honda Accord for my son last summer. It works great except that the air conditioning wasn't cool enough. I thought it was simply too old or low on Freon until later in the fall when I found out that warm air couldn't be shut off. I turn the dial down to bottom, warm air still comes out of the vents. Could you tell me what could be the problem, and what could I do about it?

The heater control has seized. It’s basically a water valve built into the cooling system. This condition will cause the gearing in the control unit to strip the gears that move the cable. Have a tech inspect and lubricate the system so that it moves freely. If the unit has been damaged the repairs can be costly as the control unit will have to be replaced.

I just bought a used car 2002 Toyota Corolla. It always moves to right when drive on the road. It is still a little bit after the tire was adjusted (aligned). What is the problem? Another issue for this car, this brand car supposes to be save gas, but my car consumed over 11 litres gas per 100 KM in city drive. What is the problem?

Pulling is usually a sign that the alignment is off...Have the dealership perform a four-wheel alignment. That means all four wheels will be aligned. In some instances the back wheels will steer the vehicle....After this done and the problem persist....have the tires rotated...there is a possibility that the tires are not square and pulling off to one side....this is referred to as radial run-out. Fuel mileage in the winter? "Forgetaboutit". Cold weather plays havoc with fuel economy.

Do you know how to check your oil? Change a flat tire? Do minor maintenance items?

I will be hosting a car clinic (2 hrs) in the Burlington Area of Ontario. Wed. Jan 24th @ 7:00pm at the Master Mechanic shop in the area. Contact: Zoltan 905-634-4211 and tell him your coming. We have space for about 50 people. We will take you under the car and show you how and why, while answering your questions. The clinic is ideal for those who want to become more aware of how their car works. Best of all it’s free.

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