Dr. Gizmo's Auto Blabber: Old Dr. Gizmo column

Dr. Gizmo's Auto Blabber: Old Dr. Gizmo column: Send Dr. Gizmo questions regarding your car to drgizmo@drgizmo.ws “Dr. Gizmo” By Phil Arendt Headlights Turn On Windshield Washe...

Old Dr. Gizmo column

Send Dr. Gizmo questions regarding your car to drgizmo@drgizmo.ws

“Dr. Gizmo”

By Phil Arendt

Headlights Turn On Windshield Washers

Question 1

Dr. Gizmo, I have a weird problem with my 2008 Ford Edge that I hope you can resolve.  When I turn on my headlights the windshield washers dribble and sometimes squirt without me activating the washers.  On bumpy roads the trouble seems worse.  With the headlights turned off the washers work normally.

I went to a shop.  They did tests but did not find any problems with modules or problem codes.  They suggest that I go to a dealership.

Have you ever heard of anything like this?  D.K., email

Answer 1

Over my many years in this business I have experienced all kinds of unusual issues.  For instance, one reader turned on the radio and the sunroof opened.

Your car has an interesting issue.  Apparently, it likes a clean windshield especially when the headlights are needed for optimal vision at night.  Your vehicle is smart.  Be this as it may, the trouble likely is caused by the headlights and windshield wiper system sharing conductors somewhere in the circuit.  More than likely the trouble is a loose or corroded common ground wire connection.  Ask your favorite technician to consider this suggestion the next time your vehicle makes its way into a service bay.

Shocked Over Branded Vehicle

Question 2

Two years ago I purchased a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT with a 2.4-liter engine.  Until recently it’s been operating fine until the ABS light turned on and now I have learned the car is a salvage vehicle.  This is putting a stop to repairs. 

I went to two shops for this problem.  The first shop replaced the brake module.  This did not fix the trouble so I went to another independent shop because the first shop had limited programming abilities.

The second shop technician attempted to program the newly installed module but the equipment would not do the programming.  He called a technical help line but was told they could not offer help because the car is branded as a salvage vehicle.  I was shocked to learn this.  At the time I purchased the vehicle I was not aware it was a salvage car.  Now my technician says he can’t program the module.  He doesn’t know what to do next.  Can you help?  By:  R.N., email

Answer 2

Yes indeed the salvage issue put the brakes on the repair.  I’m sorry to hear about this as it will cause future problems down the road.

At this point, perhaps your technician should check over the first shop’s work.  It is possible the cause of the trouble is not caused by a fault in the old module but by another issue in the system.  If so, once a proper repair is completed he can reinstall the old module and programming should not be necessary.

New Sensor Fails To Fix Condition

Question 3

I have a 2005 Nissan Altima S and the check engine light turned on.  I went to my auto parts supply store where it was tested.  Code P0725 was found.  I bought the sensor and installed it.  I went back to the store to clear the codes.  The light remained off for two days but turned back on. 

I went back to the store.  They tested for codes and found the same code.  They gave me another sensor.  I installed it but the light came back.  What am I missing?  H.L.M., email

Answer 3

First, I need to identify the sensor for our readers.  The code indicates an issue with an engine speed sensor.  The signal is monitored by a transmission control module. 

Next I have to congratulate you for your efforts.  The next step might require a trip to a repair shop.  The cause of the trouble is not likely due to a failed sensor although it is possible installation of a factory original equipment part might do the trick.  Before you run to a dealership for this part, it’s highly likely the trouble is caused by an issue in the circuit.  A problem such as a loose pin in a plug or perhaps a shorted or chaffed wire might be the cause.  Check the conductors for these issues.  If this is beyond your mechanical prowess roll your wheels to your favorite repair shop.

Engine Hesitates Due To Faulty Connection 

Question 4

Dr. Gizmo I have a 2015 Ford Escape SE with a 1.6-liter engine that hesitates and surges when accelerating and the check engine light is on.  I went to an auto supply store where they checked for codes.  They found code P0236. 

My car has 91,000 miles.  Is this a major repair?  D.I., email

Answer 4

Wow!  With 91,000 miles on the odometer you spend a lot of time behind the windshield.

This issue is not a major repair.  It involves repairing a connection related to the turbo-charger circuit.  Apparently, a factory splice connection within a harness might develop a poor connection.  The fix is to locate the wiring harness that contains the connection.  Open the harness and locate the spliced wire.  The next step is to replace the connector.  Once this is completed the issue should be resolved.

Failing Relay Impairs Starts

Question 5

Once in a while my 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with a 3.6-liter engine and 55,000 miles will not start.  When I turn the key to start the engine turns but won’t start.  I left the car with my local shop.  They had it for five days.  It never acted up until the fifth day.  They found a code for no communication with the security system but they could not find the cause of the trouble.

I fear someday I will be stranded.  Do you know what‘s wrong?  H.L.N., email

Answer 5

This is an issue that has hit many Jeeps.  I know this might sound strange but your shop might consider checking the fuel pump relay.  The antitheft system impairs the fuel pump to help prevent vehicle theft.  If indeed a technician finds a faulty relay, replacing it should fix this condition.

Old Tires Cause Vibration

Question 6

I have a 2000 Honda Accord EX with a 4-cylinder engine.  It has 24,000 miles.  I bought it a month ago.  It’s in great condition.

The trouble is there is a resonate vibration that comes and goes when going more than 60 mph. 

A local shop drove it and experienced the trouble.  They checked the alignment, tire balance, axles, wheel bearings, motor mounts and engine.  They say the tires are like new and everything else checks out fine.

The tires are the original factory tires.  Although they are in great condition is it possible they are the cause of the vibration and sound?  M.L., email

Answer 6

It is possible.  It’s appears this vehicle was not in service very often.  Tires develop flat spots over time.  Also, these tires are old.  Tires should be replaced about every 10 years even if they have plenty of tread remaining and have no visible signs of road or environmental damage.

It’s highly likely new tires will cure this issue.  Ask your favorite technician to consider this suggestion the next time you grace his shop.

Thank you 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 his e-mail address drgizmo@drgizmo.ws.  More information is available at http://drgizmo89.blogspot.com  02/26/2018 ® DR. GIZMO © 1989 – Present  

Dr. Gizmo's Auto Blabber: NHTSA Recalls for February 25, 2019

Dr. Gizmo's Auto Blabber: NHTSA Recalls for February 25, 2019: Good morning everyone, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued it's list of recalls.  Issues this week include...

NHTSA Recalls for February 25, 2019

Good morning everyone,

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued it's list of recalls. 

Issues this week include steering problems, airbag issues, fuel leaks, tires that might fall off, seat problems, brake problems, stalling engines and more.

Please review the list.  If your vehicle is affected by a recall, please have it repaired at your dealership.  Recall repairs performed at your dealership are free-of-charge.

Have a safe motoring week!   

To find out if your specific passenger vehicle is included in the recall, use our VIN Look-up Tool.

NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V901
Manufacturer :	Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Subject :	CVT Pump Blade may Detach, Causing Loss of Power
	Make Model Model Years TOYOTA COROLLA 2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V905
Manufacturer :	Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Subject :	Passenger Airbag may not Deploy Properly/FMVSS 208
	Make Model Model Years MERCEDES BENZ GLC63 2018-2019 MERCEDES BENZ GLC63 AMG 2018-2019 MERCEDES BENZ GLC63S AMG 2018-2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V908
Manufacturer :	Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Subject :	Active Steering Assist System May Remain Engaged
	Make Model Model Years MERCEDES BENZ S450 2018 MERCEDES BENZ S560 2018 MERCEDES BENZ S63 AMG 2018 MERCEDES-MAYBACH S560 2018
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V909
Manufacturer :	Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Subject :	Parking Brake may Remain Engaged
	Make Model Model Years MERCEDES BENZ C300 2019 MERCEDES BENZ C43 AMG 2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V910
Manufacturer :	Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Subject :	Active Driving System may not Detect Hands Off
	Make Model Model Years MERCEDES BENZ S450 2018-2019 MERCEDES BENZ S560 2018-2019 MERCEDES BENZ S63 AMG 2018-2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V912
Manufacturer :	Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Subject :	Sunroof Bonding may Allow Water to Leak in
	Make Model Model Years MERCEDES BENZ GLA250 2018-2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V913
Manufacturer :	Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Subject :	Steering and Tie Rod Arm Bolts may be Loose
	Make Model Model Years FCCC MT45 2017-2019 FCCC MT55G 2017-2019 FCCC S2G 2017-2019 FCCC S2RV 2017-2019 FCCC XBS 2017-2019 FCCC XCL 2017-2019 FCCC XCM 2017-2019 FCCC XCR 2017-2019 FCCC XCS 2017-2019 FREIGHTLINER 108SD 2017-2019 FREIGHTLINER 114SD 2017-2019 FREIGHTLINER 122SD 2017-2019 FREIGHTLINER BUSINESS CLASS M2 2017-2019 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA 2017-2019 WESTERN STAR 4700 2017-2019 WESTERN STAR 4900 2017-2019 WESTERN STAR 5700 2017-2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V914
Manufacturer :	Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Subject :	Steering and Tie Rod Arm Bolts may be Loose
	Make Model Model Years THOMAS BUILT BUSES SAF-T-LINER C2 2018-2019 THOMAS BUILT BUSES SAF-T-LINER EFX 2018-2019 THOMAS BUILT BUSES SAF-T-LINER HDX 2018-2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V918
Manufacturer :	BMW of North America, LLC
Subject :	Incorrect or Missing Air Bag label/FMVSS 208
	Make Model Model Years BMW X5 2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V920
Manufacturer :	Custom Truck And Body Works
Subject :	Brake Lights may Randomly Illuminate
	Make Model Model Years CUSTOM TRUCK & BODY WORKS PUMPER 2017-2019 CUSTOM TRUCK & BODY WORKS RESCUE TRUCK 2017-2019 CUSTOM TRUCK & BODY WORKS TANKER 2017-2019 CUSTOM TRUCK & BODY WORKS TYPE 1 AMBULANCE 2017-2019 CUSTOM TRUCK & BODY WORKS TYPE 2 AMBULANCE 2017-2019 CUSTOM TRUCK & BODY WORKS TYPE 3 AMBULANCE 2017-2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V922
Manufacturer :	Nissan North America, Inc.
Subject :	Fuel Tube may Leak or Disconnect
	Make Model Model Years NISSAN ALTIMA 2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V923
Manufacturer :	Great Dane Trailers
Subject :	Spare Tire Carrier may Detach from Trailer
	Make Model Model Years GREAT DANE CHAMPION CL DROP DECK 2018
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V924
Manufacturer :	Collins Bus Corporation
Subject :	Seat Legs may not have been Properly Tightened
	Make Model Model Years COLLINS DH 2018 COLLINS P24 2018 COLLINS SH 2018 COLLINS T22 2018 COLLINS T24 2018 COLLINS TH 2018
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V925
Manufacturer :	Triple E Recreational Vehicles
Subject :	Door Cable may Short Circuit Battery
	Make Model Model Years TRIPLE E SERENITY 2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V926
Manufacturer :	Eldorado National- California, Inc.
Subject :	Seat Back may not Stay Upright/FMVSS 207, 210
	Make Model Model Years ELDORADO ARRIVO 2017-2018 ELDORADO E-Z RIDER MAX BRT 2017-2018 ELDORADO PASSPORT 2017-2018
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V927
Manufacturer :	Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Subject :	Brake Caliper Corrosion may Cause Brake Drag
	Make Model Model Years HARLEY-DAVIDSON XG500 2016-2019 HARLEY-DAVIDSON XG750 2016-2019 HARLEY-DAVIDSON XG750A 2017-2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V928
Manufacturer :	Prevost Cars, Inc.
Subject :	Draglink Turnbuckle May Fracture
	Make Model Model Years PREVOST X3-45 2007-2014 PREVOST XL-45 2000 PREVOST XLII-45 2000-2006
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V929
Manufacturer :	Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Subject :	Blown Ignition Fuse can Cause an Engine Shutdown
	Make Model Model Years THOMAS BUILT BUSES SAF-T-LINER C2 2019-2020
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V930
Manufacturer :	Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Subject :	Blown Ignition Fuse can Cause an Engine Shutdown
	Make Model Model Years THOMAS BUILT BUSES SAF-T-LINER C2 2019-2020
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V931
Manufacturer :	PACCAR Incorporated
Subject :	Vehicle may Move after Clutch Component Fails
	Make Model Model Years KENWORTH C500 2018-2019 KENWORTH T270 2018-2019 KENWORTH T370 2018-2019 KENWORTH T440 2018-2019 KENWORTH T660 2018-2019 KENWORTH T680 2018-2019 KENWORTH T800 2018-2019 KENWORTH T880 2018-2019 KENWORTH W900 2018-2019 PETERBILT 337 2018-2019 PETERBILT 348 2018-2019 PETERBILT 365 2018-2019 PETERBILT 367 2018-2019 PETERBILT 389 2018-2019 PETERBILT 567 2018-2019 PETERBILT 579 2018-2019 PETERBILT 587 2018-2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V932
Manufacturer :	Spartan Motors USA
Subject :	Brake Application Timing/FMVSS 121
	Make Model Model Years SPARTAN GLADIATOR 2011-2019 SPARTAN METROSTAR 2011-2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V933
Manufacturer :	Forest River, Inc.
Subject :	Water Heater Exhaust may Melt Power Cord or Hatch
	Make Model Model Years FOREST RIVER SALEM 2019 FOREST RIVER WILDWOOD 2019
NHTSA Recall ID Number :	18V935
Manufacturer :	Subaru of America, Inc.
Subject :	Camera Image may not Display/FMVSS 111
	Make Model Model Years SUBARU BRZ 2018 SUBARU LEGACY 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK 2018