Trending
DEAR DOCTOR: My wife drives a 2013 Ford Escape. The front brakes and rotors had to be replaced at 20,000 miles and now again at 32,000 miles due to warped rotors. I know she’s hard on the brakes, but this is a bit much. I did some research and came across an article about proper installation and “bedding” the brakes. Is this procedure necessary? Is it possible that the rotors aren’t being installed properly?
Bill
DEAR BILL: Let’s talk about warped brake rotors. There are many reasons why brake rotors go out of round sometimes even with brand new vehicles that have under 5,000 miles. On new vehicles, brake rotors usually warp from being overheated. Rear brakes not contributing enough to vehicle stopping, drivers who are hard on the brakes and poor quality rotors from the factory are all possible contributors to warping. In my opinion, the size of the brake pads and rotors are too small on the majority of vehicles. When I have a customer who has a complaint on brake pulsation, I suggest switching over to a heavy-duty set of brake pads and rotors from the aftermarket performance industry. I have never had a pulsation issue with these performance brake pad and rotors, although you may get an occasional squeak from these performance brake parts. Many big box auto repair shops use brake rotors that are below the original factory standards.
DEAR DOCTOR: My 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis has 105,000 miles and a problem with a flashing airbag warning light. The repair shop scan tool showed trouble code B2292, indicating a restraint system fault with the driver’s side seatbelt pre-tensioner. I was quoted a price of $765 for a new Motorcraft seatbelt pre-tensioner with expected labor time of one and a half hours at $111 per hour for replacement. Do I have other repair options, namely an aftermarket seatbelt pre-tensioner or a vendor who rebuilds/repairs faulty units?
Chuck
Dear Chuck: SRS airbag replacement parts are not inexpensive, such as with your 2005 Mercury’s seat belt assembly. I would recommend having the technician re-check to make sure the fault is not a wire issue or a plug connector fault. You can always purchase a used part from an automotive salvage yard for less money.
DEAR DOCTOR: I have a 2003 Honda Accord and I’ve noticed the smooth ride I used to have now feels a little rough. My dealer checked the suspension, plus they balanced and rotated the tires. I still feel the ride is rough. Should I replace the shocks and springs help?
Bart
DEAR BART: Your car’s springs and struts actually lose their weight rating with age. The metal weakens over time, as do the actual gas-charged struts. If you do replace the struts and springs, then use Honda factory brand parts, as well the upper strut mounts. Make sure that the control arms and all sway bar bushings and links are also checked for wear and play.
DEAR DOCTOR: The engine oil in my 2002 Nissan Altima four-cylinder seems to disappear, and I cannot find any leaks and the engine is not smoking. I add about 3 quarts every two months. I replaced two O2 sensors, as well as the upper catalytic converter. Any advice you can offer me on this issue?
Randy
DEAR RANDY: I have seen oil consumption on Altima four-cylinder engines, such as your model. I recommend you switch over to a high-mileage oil. Upper catalytic converter failure is due to oil contamination. Check with Nissan for anything they can do for you. You can also have a trained technician remove the spark plugs and fill the cylinders with combustion cleaner overnight. The next morning remove the cleaner from the cylinders before replacing the spark plugs. The corrosive cleaner will often times make a big difference in freeing up the piston rings. The oil should also be drained before starting the engine.