My 2008 Audi A4 S has rust developing around the two front wheel wells and I need to know how to deal with it. Can you ever get rust out of a car part once it is in? – John L. From my correspondence with John, I know that he had some minor stone chips… Read more »
Category: Blog
Fuel-injection Systems Explained
I understand the basics of fuel injection; my Ford F-150 EcoBoost, however, is direct injected. What’s the difference? – Jim Traditional multiport fuel-injection systems use an in-tank pump to pressurize fuel and deliver it to each port of the intake manifold with a standard fuel injector. Alternatively, the basics of direct injection are: An in-tank… Read more »
Ontario changing used car safety standards and that’s good news for buyers
I have heard that there is a new safety inspection coming soon to Ontario. Because I am in the market for a used car, can you shed any light on what to expect? – John B. Ontario’s passenger cars and light duty vehicles are certified for the road based on regulations implemented 42 years ago…. Read more »
How do I know if my car is burning excessive amounts of oil?
My 2011 Acura MDX has 99,000 kilometres on it and is burning a litre after 6,500. A second litre is required after the next 4,000 kilometres, and a third litre before the maintenance minder calls for an oil change at 15,000 kilometres. Acura is telling me this is within the guidelines. Is this accurate? –… Read more »
Why is my A/C not working?
I have a 2009 Mercedes B200. The A/C isn’t cooling the car. – Gay Not functioning at all? A large leak may have completely depleted the Freon charge or an electrical problem may be present. Here are a couple of easy steps to help troubleshoot: Start inside the vehicle, checking for proper air flow. The… Read more »
How often should I change the oil if I drive less than 5,000 kilometres a year?
Two readers have a similar question: Miguel R. drives a Nissan Versa and Lew W., a Toyota Solara. Their vehicles are driven less than 5,000 kilometres a year. Both drivers are receiving conflicting information regarding their oil-change intervals. What is the correct oil change interval for limited-use vehicles? I’ve contacted several oil suppliers and they… Read more »
What’s causing the annoying vibration in my Acura?
My 2007 Acura TSX with 160,000 kilometres on it has an annoying vibration coming from the front end at more than 80 km/h. It’s worse when I step on the gas pedal. I have had the tires balanced and ball joints replaced but my mechanic can’t find the problem. – Bob R. Front-wheel drive cars… Read more »
How do I get an accurate dipstick reading?
My 2007 Cadillac CTS burns a litre of oil every 2,000 kilometres or so. I drive mainly on the highway, so the oil doesn’t get dirty, and it is difficult to get an accurate reading on the dipstick. Suggestions? Dye? – Sandra I receive a surprising amount of help requests from customers who find it… Read more »
Do I need to clean my brakes?
My dealership service centre told me that the brakes on my 2010 Mazda Tribute should be cleaned – the calipers should be adjusted, lubricated, and cleaned once a year. Is this a legitimate maintenance? – Jacob There are a variety of opinions out there, but I believe strongly in regular preventative maintenance. So what is… Read more »
The used car I bought wasn’t properly maintained, how can I get rid of sludge buildup?
The 2000 Jeep Cherokee I recently purchased with almost 232,000 kilometres on it clearly did not receive proper maintenance. After the replacement of a leaky valve cover gasket, my mechanic indicated that it was super gunked up. He suggested an engine flush and a fresh oil change. The reviews I’ve read state that engine flushes… Read more »