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Dear Doctor: When starting the engine on my 2013 Jeep Wrangler the Instrumentation Panel shows flashing icons, and then when I shift into reverse the transmission “bangs” and when I shift into park it “bangs” again. When I turn off the engine and restart it the flashing lights go off. The dealer said they could replace the Total Integrated Power Module for $1,300. This is only an intermittent problem. Can you give me advice?
Bill
Dear Bill: I would not jump into a major part cost replacement until I was very certain of the source of the problem. When you shut the ignition key off and restart the engine – and the problem is gone – this usually indicates a glitch in a computer. It would great if the problem happens while the technician has a scan tool connected to the vehicle so s/he could pinpoint the electronic fault. You may want to leave the Wrangler at the shop so the technician can drive the Jeep home with the scan tool connected. Chrysler has had some problems with the Total Integrated Power Module located under the hood on multiple car lines, including Jeep. Dorman Products, a company that rebuilds a lot of automotive parts, does have the part number for this product.
Dear Doctor: Have a 2010 Infiniti G37x with a wonderful “music box” where a lot of CD discs were downloaded into it originally (so you don’t have to reload or take out any discs.) Is there a way to “extract” these CDs all at once so that I can port them over to another vehicle? Unfortunately, I don’t have an iPod, iPad, tablet, or smartphone. I do not want the next owner of my Infiniti to get my CD collection. Sara
Dear Sara: I’m not familiar with how to extract data and then erase the hard drive. I suggest talking to the dealer and/or a local radio shop. I recently sold my vehicle and it also had a lot of music downloaded onto the drive – I hope the new owner is enjoying it.
Dear Doctor: I have a 2011 Buick Lucerne that rides like a wagon. I’m wondering if maybe I need shocks and struts. How can I soften the ride?
Donnie
Dear Donnie: Before doing anything to the Lucerne, have a technician take a ride in the car with you so that s/he knows exactly what you find troublesome. The suspension may not need any repair. Tire size and tread design are very important to both ride and noise. A low-profile tire design does contribute to a harder ride. Changing the aspect ratio of the tire size to a wider sidewall will soften the ride. The summer tread design will also quiet the ride and can even soften the ride. Adjusting the tire pressure down by 3 pounds from the recommended pressure will also soften the ride.
Junior Damato is an ASE-certified Master Technician. E-mail questions for publication to info@motormatters.biz. Mail questions to: Motor Matters, P.O. Box 3305, Wilmington, DE 19804.
Dear Joe: Your 2007 Honda has low mileage. In some cases low mileage vehicles can have carbon buildup – and have piston rings not seated properly. You will need to leave the car overnight with your service shop so that the technician can listen to the sound in the morning upon engine start up. In some cases a top engine cleaner can remove carbon deposits. I would also suggest using premium fuel and drive the car on the highway once a week to get the entire driveline up to operating temperature.
– Junior Damato, Motor Matters
Copyright, Motor Matters, 2016
(Manufacturer photo: 2013 Jeep Wrangler)
Junior Damato is an ASE-certified Master Technician. E-mail questions for publication to info@motormatters.biz Mail questions to: Motor Matters, PO Box 3305, Wilmington, DE 19804.