Dave Redinger's The Neighborhood Mechanic - Cracked Windshield?

Is your windshield cracked? If so you are put your putting yourself and passengers in harms way.

The windshield in your car performs several tasks. The glass supports the roof and is structurally part of body (stiffening the windshield posts and cowl section).

In combination with the seat belts the glass also prevents ejection during a collision. In some vehicles the front glass directs the air bag inflation cycle insuring correct positioning.

Remember that the air bag inflates at 300 kph and that full inflation is measured in micro-seconds.

Conclusion if the windshield in you car is cracked replace it. Enough said.

Now for this week's first question:

My daughter has a 1997 Chevy Cavalier. One of the dash lights, the ABS light is lit. She took it to a garage once to get it fixed and they told her that it was just a wire. The light went out, but now it’s are back on again. If it was a wire and they fixed it, it should have stayed fixed so I really do not believe what they were saying. I told her to go back to them but she didn't. Is it ok to leave the light or should she get it fixed?

Pam

The ABS light is monitoring the Antilock Braking System. When this light is lit the AB system is not functioning. That means the vehicle could skid on surfaces with low traction. I would suggest you go back to the tech you dealt with originally and have the system scanned. These types of vehicle have problems with the wheel sensors as the age. I'm sure the shop will adjust your invoice and get it right this time.

I have been having problems with the transmission sensor on my Honda Civic LX for about a year now. When it (the speedo) first stopped working I had it replaced with a use one, as cost was a consideration. About 8 months later I had the same problem. Took it to my local mechanic this time as I had no available time to go out of town again. This time I was told it was an electrical problem and got charged 5 hrs labour for the trouble. Guess what? It’s gone again!

Helen

Technically you are referring to the speed sensor. We have experienced problems with this component in Accords but; not the Civic line. However; have your mechanic check the wiring harness that is located behind the engine under the intake manifold. This harness has a tendency to chafe and will affect the speed readings. Remember the electronics in modern cars are complicated and difficult to repair. Shops have invested considerable resources in test equipment and technical information to perform professional service. Electrical repairs are not cheap!

Dave Redinger a mechanic with over 40 yrs of experience. Dave operates his shop “DOCTOR H HONDA SPECIALISTS in Toronto for the last 26 yrs.

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