Dr. Gizmo's Auto Blabber: March 2015

Monday, March 30, 2015

Meet Steve The So-called Dummy Who Saves Pedestrians

Dr. Gizmo Automotive Question and Answer Column

"Dr. Gizmo"

By Phil Arendt

Transmission Fluid Leak Contaminates Computer Module

Question 1

The transmission in my 2002 Mercedes-Benz C230 is not working at all. When I shift into drive nothing happens. When I shift into reverse the transmission seems to engage a little but then stops as the car starts to move.

I had the car towed to my local repair shop because the nearest Mercedes-Benz dealer is about 75 miles away. My shop did tests but no codes were found in the computer. They say they might have to replace the transmission or the valves inside it.

The car has 158,000 miles on it. It’s in great condition. When the trouble started there were no warning lights on the dash. No warning lights are on at my shop. Do you have any suggestions? S.F., email

Answer 1

The fact that no warning lights illuminated and no malfunction codes were found is unusual but that raises suspicion that there is a computer problem. Your car has a transmission control module that obviously operates the transmission.

There have been instances where transmission fluid seeps through an electrical harness attached to the module. The fluid contaminates and ruins the module. If this is the problem a new module and some repair to the transmission is necessary. Ask your shop to consider this as a possible cause to the condition.

Two Systems Impaired By One Failing Part

Question 2

The power steering in my 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 with a diesel engine makes noise. I hear the noise when turning especially in tight turns. Also, once in a while when coming to a stop the brake pedal feels soft.

When the noise started I checked the fluid in the power steering tank. It was full.

A friend that knows about cars said that sometimes changing the power steering fluid can stop the noise. I had the fluid flushed but the noise continues.

What do you suggest I do next? R.D., email

Answer 2

Trade it for a Smart for Two. All kidding aside, the power steering and power brake system in your vehicle receives hydraulic pressure from the power steering pump. When there is an internal problem in the pump it affects both systems. That’s probably why the brake pedal doesn’t feel normal at times.

To fix the trouble might require replacement of the power steering hydraulic pump and the hydro-boost unit for the power brakes. When you take the vehicle to a repair shop they likely will check the operation of these parts. Repair depends upon technician findings.

Blinkers On The Fritz

Question 3

I have a 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe with 213,000 miles. Recently I've had issues with the blinkers. Sometimes they work and sometimes not. Usually, they'll start with the normal frequency and then might slow down or totally stop blinking. Sometimes when they stop, since I still have the lever on, they start up again. It happens in either direction.

My grandson and I have done some checks. When they're working, even slowly, the tail lights illuminate with the same sequence.
Do you have any ideas? Is this a major repair? M.D.M., Woodbury, Minn.

Answer 3

Yes, I do have ideas. I think we should once again send astronauts to the moon, this time in a car that can land on the moon and return to earth. And no, this is not a major repair.

Sometimes a condition such as this is caused by low battery voltage. Make sure the battery is capable of holding a full charge. Have it tested. Also, the terminals and cable ends need to be clean and shiny inside and out.

If the battery and cables are ok, the trouble might be caused by a faulty flasher relay. Replacing it might be a lasting cure.

These suggestions won’t cost an arm and a leg.

No Such Thing As A Silly Question

Question 4

This is not a question about a problem with my car. Perhaps this is a silly question but when we build vehicles that are sold in countries with the steering wheel on the passenger side, do manufactures have to make different engines to accommodate the steering? D.A., email

Answer 4

Generally, the basic engines are the same as they are in the good old United States of America. Obviously the entire vehicle needs to comply with another country’s laws. Generally, to accommodate steering components car makers move parts that bolt to the engine. They also move parts around in the engine bay so the steering column fits nicely on the right side. Of course the instrument panel, clutch, gas and brake pedals move to the right side as well but the engine block that is used here generally is the same overseas. This is why you might find threaded holes in engines that are not in use.

Some Things Are Secret

Question 5

I have a 1997 Chevrolet Lumina that is having a problem with the factory antitheft system. Is it possible to bypass the system? What needs to be done? R.W., email

Answer 5

First of all I can’t divulge the procedure to bypass the system in this column due to space. It can be done. However, there might be an individual who is itching to make a quick buck on a stolen vehicle. Additionally, it more than likely would cost more to bypass the system than to repair it.

Award the repair to your favorite shop. Be sure to receive an estimate before authorizing any work.

First Things First

Question 6

I have a 1996 Buick Riviera with a 3.8-liter engine and nearly 300,000 miles. I love this car. It’s in great condition. I take great care of it.

The trouble is the ABS light is on and the heater and air conditioner control quit working. I went to a repair shop that has been taking care of it for many years. They do fantastic work. They did some tests. Their diagnostic scanner tool will not communicate with the computers that control these systems. They say that before they can fix the car they need to restore communication with the computers.

I’m not going to get rid of my car. It’s my baby. Would replacing the modules fix the problems or is it more complicated than just replacing some parts? N.R.M., email

Answer 6

Congratulations for rolling nearly 300,000 miles. That’s further than the distance between the earth and moon. This is all due to the care you give your baby. Also, it is great that you give your shop a thumbs-up.

As for replacing parts, communication issues often are caused by open circuits. There might be a broken wire or faulty ground connection. If this is the problem installing new modules will not fix the trouble.

Your shop needs to troubleshoot the circuits. If the circuits are ok, then it is time to consider replacing modules.

Thanks for all the great questions. Dr. Gizmo can’t wait to answer more.

Phil Arendt is a columnist, consultant and A.S.E.-Certified Master Technician. Readers may send questions to Dr. Gizmo at P.O. Box 548, Cary, IL. 60013 or e-mail address drgizmo@hotmail.com. 10/20/2014 ® DR. GIZMO © 1989 - Present

Recalls For March 30, 2015

Good morning! Happy Monday everyone! The start of another workweek finds us sailing into spring and holiday at the end of the week.

This week the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued more recalls than last week. Safety issues this week include steering problems, possible carbon monoxide poisoning, exterior lighting problems, incorrect fasteners, fuel system issues, trouble with interior trim, electrical problems at a battery, hybrid electrical problems, air bag issues and more.

Please review the recalls. To learn more click on the campaign ID number. If your vehicle is affected please have it repaired as quickly as possible.

Also, since not every vehicle within a particular year, make, and model is recalled, please go to www.safercar.gov/vinlookup . When you enter your vehicle identification you will learn if your vehicle is recalled or not.

Have a great week!

Please click on the following NHTSA Campaign ID links to view the recall information.


NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V133
Manufacturer :	Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	TIFFIN / 2014
Subject :	Steering Knuckle may Fail

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V134
Manufacturer :	Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Make / Model Years :	TOYOTA / 2012-2015
Subject :	Roof Headliner Requirements/FMVSS 201

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V136
Manufacturer :	Blue Bird Body Company
Make / Model Years :	BLUE BIRD / 2013-2016
Subject :	Incorrect Fasteners on Seat Gusset/FMVSS 210

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V137
Manufacturer :	Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Make / Model Years :	MERCEDES BENZ / 2012-2015
Subject :	Rear Side Marker Illumination/FMVSS 108

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V138
Manufacturer :	Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Make / Model Years :	MERCEDES BENZ / 2015
Subject :	Improperly Attached Fuel Delivery Module and Wires

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V139
Manufacturer :	Mack Trucks, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	MACK / 2012-2015
Subject :	Inadvertent Fifth Wheel Latch Release

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V140
Manufacturer :	Kalmar Solutions, LLC
Make / Model Years :	KALMAR / 2014-2015
Subject :	Battery Ground may Disconnect and Harness may Melt

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V141
Manufacturer :	BMW of North America, LLC
Make / Model Years :	BMW / 2005-2011
Subject :	Rear Wheel Mounting Flange may Crack

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V143
Manufacturer :	Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Make / Model Years :	TOYOTA / 2012-2014
Subject :	Loss of Electric Drive

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V144
Manufacturer :	Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Make / Model Years :	TOYOTA / 2014-2015
Subject :	Possible Loss of Electric Power Steering

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V145
Manufacturer :	General Motors LLC
Make / Model Years :	CHEVROLET / 2011-2013
Subject :	On, but Unattended, Vehicle may cause CO Poisoning

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V146
Manufacturer :	General Motors LLC
Make / Model Years :	BUICK / 2015 CHEVROLET / 2015
Subject :	Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V147
Manufacturer :	BMW of North America, LLC
Make / Model Years :	BMW / 2014-2015
Subject :	Head Protection System Air Bag Improper Inflation

Sunday, March 29, 2015

Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid Derives Technology from Volt

GM estimates combined fuel economy ratings to exceed 45 mpg

DETROIT – Chevrolet’s recent production announcement of its all-electric vehicle based on the Bolt EV concept, as well as the introduction of the 2016 Chevrolet Volt, will be joined by a strong hybrid version of the next-generation Malibu.

Using technology from the 2016 Chevrolet Volt propulsion system, Malibu Hybrid will offer an estimated combined fuel economy rating exceeding 45 mpg, higher than the combined mileage ratings of the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry and Hyundai Sonata hybrid variants.

“The 2016 Malibu Hybrid will offer impressive fuel economy, exceptional driving characteristics and gorgeous styling,” said Jesse Ortega, Chevrolet Malibu chief engineer.

“Besides leveraging innovation from the Chevrolet Volt, the Malibu Hybrid also has unique features that help improve aerodynamics, like upper and lower grille air shutters to improve airflow and a reduced ride height, all of which help reduce fuel consumption,” Ortega said.

An all-new direct-injection 1.8L 4-cylinder engine mated to a two-motor drive unit slightly modified from the 2016 Chevrolet Volt drive unit powers the Malibu Hybrid. The drive unit provides additional power to assist the engine during acceleration, for 182 horsepower (136 kW) of total system power.

The engine also features Chevrolet’s first application of Exhaust Gas Heat Recovery, or EGHR, technology, which uses exhaust heat to warm the engine and cabin. EGHR improves engine warm up and assures consistent fuel economy performance in cold weather. Additional fuel economy benefits come from Exhaust Gas Recirculation, or EGR.

An 80-cell, 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides electric power to the Hybrid system. The advanced lithium-ion based chemistry can power the Malibu hybrid at up to 55 miles per hour on electricity alone. The gasoline-powered engine will automatically come on at higher speeds and high loads when necessary to provide additional power.

Malibu Hybrid also shares power electronics from the 2016 Volt and a blended regenerative braking system, which provides maximum kinetic energy recovery during braking to be stored into the battery system to help maintain charge.

The Malibu Hybrid will be manufactured in Kansas City, Kansas, at the Fairfax Assembly plant from globally sourced parts. It is due in Chevrolet dealer showrooms in spring 2016.

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 115 countries and selling around 4.8 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive & active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Check Your Car For Recalls

It's not unusual for your repair shop to check your car for recalls while it is in for service or repairs. And often you hear about million of cars being recalled a on the news. The problem with news reports is that even though they announce a certain year, make and model vehicle is being recalled not all of them are affected by a recall. You might think your car needs recall repairs when it is not under recall.

Well there is an easy and accurate way for you to learn if your car is covered by a recall and needs repair. Last year the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration improved their web site. All you need to do is type in your car's vehicle identification number. The website will tell you if your car is or is not affected by a recall. Go to www.safercar.gov/vinlookup and try it yourself. Who knows you might find your car needs free recall repairs that you were not aware of. Or, you might sigh in relief that your car is recall free.

Monday, March 23, 2015

Recalls for March 23, 2015

Good Monday morning everyone!

Today, Dr. Gizmo is writing this blog from Texas. Typically, he writes in Chicago but travel back to Chicago from Texas is hampered by a snow storm in Chicago. Oh well, I will miss out on the fun my friends are having driving in the snow. Be careful!

This week the National Highway Traffic Administration has issued three recalls. Apparently it was a slow week. If your vehicle is affected please have it repaired as quickly as possible.

Please click on the following NHTSA Campaign ID links to view the recall information.


NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V132
Manufacturer :	PACCAR Incorporated
Make / Model Years :	PETERBILT / 2006-2016
Subject :	Incorrect Tire Information on Label/FMVSS 110

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V135
Manufacturer :	Winnebago Industries, Inc
Make / Model Years :	ITASCA / 2015 WINNEBAGO / 2015
Subject :	Abutting Wedge Incorrectly Installed

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	15V153
Manufacturer :	Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Make / Model Years :	HONDA / 2001,2004,2008
Subject :	Driver Side Air Bag Inflator may Rupture

Monday, March 16, 2015

Recalls for March 16, 2015

Happy Monday everyone. The start of another work week brings recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

This week recall issues include potential fires, cracking wheel chair lifts, brake and steering issues, faulty seat belts, parking brakes that don't hold, broken gas pedals, leaky fuel lines, electrical failures, improper labeling and more.

Please review the list of recalls. If your vehicle is affected by a recall please have it repaired as quickly as possible. We want you to be safe.

Have a safe motoring week!