Dave Redinger's The Neighbourhood Mechanic, 1/2/07
 |
DAVE REDINGER
ASK THE NEIGHBOURHOOD MECHANIC
Car repairs consistently top the list when in comes to consumer complains. Personally I think the real problem is the lack of communication between the tech behind the counter and the customer with a problem. Modern cars have become computers with wheels, techs are faced with ever increasing complication and costly components. So how are we supposed to describe the failure in terms that make sense? “The failure was due to a lack of data on the USB bus from the left rear wheel speed sensor, this occurred when you tore the wheel off. When you just “brushed the curb” the computer (ECM) went into back up mode, this severed the communication between the ECM and BCM. Lacking input, the BCM in effect shut down and that’s why the horn didn’t work”. I must admit it’s easier to deal with guys when trying to explain these things. Guy’s will never admit they don’t have a clue what you’re saying. Men also accept the cost of the repairs so much better. Ok gals, how would you handle a situation like this? Well, take a page from my wife’s book…”I’ll have my husband call you”.
I have a 1999 Mazda Protégé (bought new), for the first 2 years the interior heating was sufficient on cold winter days and would clear the frosted windshield. (I have an automatic car starter installed) But for the past three years it takes much longer to warm up and air is not as warm as it once was, and does not clear the windshield. The temperature gauge comes up to normal, replaced the thermostat twice and even had the anti-freeze changed. No success.
Nancy
Unfortunately the answer is not that easy. A short list of what may be the problem: wrong type or faulty series of thermostat, Poorly adjusted blend door, failing water pump, clogged heater core, the list goes on. Best advice here is to have a technician spend some quality time with your car.
When the weather is dry and warm there is no apparent problem, but after a rain or sitting outside over night in the cold there is a very annoying squealing sound which seems to sound like it comes from the fan belt area. The high pitch sound seems to slowly go away after about 20 minutes. Any thoughts?
Laurie
The problem you are experiencing is a classic case of a loose or worn alternator belt. The reason you are hearing the noise is that the belt is slipping. After sitting for extended periods the car's battery will need topping up. The power required is supplied by the alternator. Working the alternator loads the belt and causes slipping. Best advice is to replace this belt. At the same have the pulley’s inspected for wear.
Dave's Past Columns