For U Solution

In 2004, Chrysler informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it would recall certain Liberty model Jeeps equipped with 3.7-liter engines, citing problems with the two valve cover studs. In 2006, Chrysler recalled some two-wheel drive Liberty vehicles with 3.7-liter engines, because of issues with the left oxygen sensor wiring harness.

Significance

If affected Jeep owners dont repair the defects prompting the recall, the wiring harness issue could cause a fire under the hood. Liberty owners should contact the manufacturer or the NHTSA, supplying their Jeeps VIN number, to see if its been recalled.

Risks

In both recalls, the risk of fire stems from the chance that the alternator harness and/or the wiring harness could come into contact with a hot exhaust pipe, leading to potential personal injury and/or property damage.

Remedies

Dealers must add protective caps to the valve cover studs and re-route affected wiring harness to repair the alternator wiring harness issue. To repair the oxygen sensor wiring harness problem, dealers must secure the excess length of the wiring harness and fix any damage already done to the wiring.

General Motors Company and the National Highway Traffic System Administration have announced multiple safety recalls due to steering problems in GMC trucks. Sierra pickups with model years of 2003-2006 may experience difficulty steering due to a range of manufacturing defects. If not repaired, any of these steering problems could lead to a crash.

Power Steering Hose Defect

On October 4, 2005, General Motors recalled 123,592 vehicles including certain 2005-2006 model year Sierra pickup trucks for problems with the power steering hose. A manufacturing defect may cause the hose to break and leak fluid if the steering wheel is turned extremely to the left or right while braking.

Steering Connector Bolt Defect

On January 20, 2005, General Motors recalled certain 2005 model year GMC Sierra trucks to replace the bolt connecting the steering gear to the steering shaft. If not repaired, the defective bolt may break and cause a loss of steering.

Hydraulic Brake System Defects

In January 2004 and February 2005, General Motors recalled certain 2003-2005 Sierra pickups for manufacturing issues that could result in steering problems. A defect in the hydro-boost relief valve in 2003-2004 GMC Sierra trucks may cause the driver to have to use excessive force to steer and/or brake. A potentially problematic hydro-boost assembly in 2004-2005 GMC Sierra trucks may cause an hydraulic fuel leak, which may lead the driver to experience steering and brake problems.

According to the websites Edmunds and Auto Recalls for Consumers, owners of the 2003 Lincoln Navigator have reported problems with the vehicles gearshift knob. These reports deal primarily with the cosmetics of this luxury SUV and nothing with the operation of the Navigators transmission. However, when the gearshift knob does break off or become loose, it can affect the way the operator shifts gears.

Gear Shift Knob Sticks Button

One of the main complaints about the gearshift knob on the 2003 Lincoln Navigator came from Edmunds. This report concerned the knob preventing the driver from pushing the shifting button to engage the gears. The report goes on to state that the driver had to remove the shift knob to engage the shift button and shift the gears. This problem centered on the seal that surrounds the button becoming loose or unglued, in turn preventing the driver from engaging the shift button. The only correction for this problem involved replacing the gearshift sealant or gasket surrounding the shift button.

Gear Shift Knob Loose

The gearshift knob on the 2003 Lincoln Navigator may come loose or come off the gearshift, according to reports from Edmunds. The manufacturer tightens the knob to a certain torque specification and places a lock-tight fluid on it to prevent it from coming loose or coming off. The knob may loosen or come off during normal driving conditions if the manufacturer has failed to torque it down or it has cracked during tightening. In this case, the dealer must replace or retighten the gearshift knob.

Transmission Control Indicator

The transmission control indicator on the dashboard of the 2003 Lincoln Navigator can remain illuminated even in the absence of a transmission problem, according to Edmunds, which attributes the problem to the gearshift control knob causing the shift button to stick and thus causing the warning indicator to remain illuminated. The seal on the gear shift knob can prevent the shift button from returning to the stop position after the driver presses it to engage the gears. In this case, the dealer must replace the seal and seat the gearshift knob correctly to prevent the shift button from sticking.

Subaru vehicles have a long history of exhaust problems, and the Outback is no exception. The original exhaust system will last the longest; it is constructed of stainless steel. Aluminized exhaust systems are a common and more affordable replacement option and depending on your geographical region, can last as little as two years. Road salt and other road contaminants can lead to premature wear and tear on aftermarket exhaust systems.

Heat Shields

Raise the Outback on a lift, ramps or jack stands so you can inspect the exhaust system thoroughly. One of the most annoying aspects of all Subaru vehicles is that all the exhaust components are wrapped with insulated heat shields. While the heat shields offer a protection against grass fires in arid regions, it is likely that the shields will become corroded and loosen. Loose heat shields will vibrate during engine acceleration or idling. Use radiator clamps to tighten and re-secure the heat shields to the exhaust pipes they surround. This can be a challenging task depending on the location of the loose heat shield. Subaru Outback exhaust systems employ several components with awkward bends and angles. This may challenge the task of integrating the radiator clamp position in order to tighten the shield and silence the rattle. In the best case scenario, youll be able to effectively apply the radiator clamp around the heat shield and fasten it to the exhaust pipe, but the repair, at best, is a temporary solution to a permanent problem.

Cutting off the heat shields is a more permanent solution, but it is not recommended. It can be illegal in states that endure high forest-fire risks. Other states may mandate the heat shields on vehicles in order to pass the vehicle state inspections.

Flange Connections

Other than the heat shields, the next-weakest links in the Subaru exhaust system components are the flange connections. Inspect the flange connections thoroughly to ensure the gasket between the seamed flanges is not leaking and the flanges are not deteriorated. Its not uncommon if the flange connections between the converters and exhaust pipes thin and weaken from age and normal wear and tear. Once the flanges weaken, they can create an exhaust leak, either because the heat of the exhaust will burn the gasket out or the connection itself becomes too compromised.

You have two options when the flange connections are compromised. Replace the components with the weak flanges and put a new gasket in between, or cut the flange connections off on both components and "buddy sleeve" and clamp the connection. The latter is a more inexpensive alternative if even applicable, but its a short term solution.

Catalytic Converters

Test the back-flow of the exhaust system by plugging the tailpipe of the Outback. Wear a thick safety glove to protect your hands from exhaust heat. Fully clogged converters will compromise the engine operation, since exhaust systems need to disperse fumes from the exhaust. Partially clogged converters can result from a misfired cylinder or cylinders, a compromised oxygen sensor or the lack of maintaining the vehicle. The Outback employs at least three catalytic converters, depending on the year and model series. Regular tune-ups will assist in the longevity of the converters as well as replacing the oxygen sensors at regular scheduled maintenance intervals.

Aftermarket Aluminzed Exhaust Systems

Aluminized systems will not endure as long as original systems. While stainless steel exhaust systems are available as replacement exhaust components, many people find the price of the systems to be too steep. Inspect your aluminized aftermarket systems annually to determine efficiency and durability. Aluminized systems will have weaker piping connections to the converter or system and deteriorate much quicker than stainless steel systems. Be sure to inspect the flange connections of the systems and the piping extensions.

The catalytic converter in the Ford Escape is the part of the exhaust system, which changes or converts harmful chemicals, such as hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide, into cleaner less harmful emissions. Sensor monitor how efficiently these chemicals are converter and when a catalytic converter has problems, the engine in the Ford Escape will not work at its highest performance.

Catalytic Converter Clogs

The Ford Escape has many reports about the catalytic converter clogging. The catalytic converter is honeycomb-shaped and can melt when overheated. This honeycomb generally runs at a temperature of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and when the harmful chemicals begin to build-up in the catalytic converter, the operating temperature increases. When the operating temperature increases in the catalytic converter, the materials which make up the honeycomb shape of the converter begin to melt causing the converter to clog. This clogging does not allow exhaust to be converted and backs up into the engine causing it to stall or choke the engine. The catalytic converter in the Ford Escape must be replaced to correct this problem.

Catalytic Converter Leaks

The catalytic converter has reports about a loud noise developing under the Ford Escape. This loud noise is attributed to the catalytic converter leaking from around the seals or connections. The exhaust system has several connection points which is attached together with gaskets, bolts and nuts. As road debris and pollutants build-up on these connections, the connection begin to deteriorate and fail causing a leak in the exhaust system. This leak creates a loud noise when operating the Ford Escape. The Escape owner must inspect the exhaust system, particularly around the catalytic converter connection, to determine if there is a leak in the exhaust system and replace the gasket or damaged connections in order to correct this problem.

O2 Sensor Failure

One of the most common problems with the catalytic converter in the Ford Escape is an O2 sensor failure. The O2 sensor monitors the performance of the catalytic converter and forwards this information to the Escapes computer system. When the O2 sensor fails, the engine in the Escape will begin to stall, misfire, choke or jerk during acceleration. Replacing the O2 sensor corrects this problem, but the sensor may not last long because the catalytic converter can be the source of the O2 sensor failure. The catalytic converter can fail to convert the harmful chemical over time because of a breakdown or worn filtering system. The catalytic converter must be replaced when this problem develops on the Ford Escape.

Honda engines, like all engines, can be prone to problems. Some are common to a certain model or make, while others are simply isolated incidents. Engine recalls have been issued on certain models due to structural or performance errors in the past and the present.

Honda Civic Problems

The 2001 Honda Civic has had at least 23 engine complaints. Problems include engine failure, stalling, computer failure, cracked manifold and reports of it burning oil.

Honda Odyssey Problems

The 2007 Honda Odyssey has at least seven known engine problems. These problems include excessive noise, premature battery death, "pinging" noises, oil leaks and starting failures.

Honda Accord Problems

The 2008 Honda Accord has had at least 107 engine problems attributed to it. Problems include excessive oil consumption, grinding noises, bad gas mileage, loss of power, difficulties starting in cold weather and power loss during acceleration.

Exhaust problems are among the most subtle yet potentially debilitating issues your car will face. A damaged exhaust system will interfere with the cars performance by failing to clear harmful elements from the engine, while backed-up exhaust can release carcinogens into the atmosphere and even pose a health threat if not detected. You can diagnose car exhaust problems yourself by keeping a sharp lookout for certain warning signs.

Instructions

1

Examine the length of the exhaust system, starting at the engine and continuing back toward the tailpipe. Look for signs of cracks or fissures along the pipes, especially where the exhaust manifold connects to the cylinder and where it connects to the main pipe. Any area where one pipe or part connects to another is apt to develop fissures or cracks, which can be spotted if you examine it thoroughly.

2

Check the exhaust port near the cylinder head for signs of burned or discolored paint. Its a sign that the exhaust system is not functioning as it should.

3

Listen to the engine while it is running. You can diagnose an exhaust problem by the noises it makes: a recurring hiss or unusual popping noise is usually caused by a problem in the exhaust system. It means that the muffler or the pipes are probably leaking.

4

Look at the muffler of the car. Its surface should be shiny and solid if you want the exhaust system functioning as it should. Holes, punctures, or undue rust are signs of problems.

5

Poke at any questionable pipes with a pair of pliers or the end of a screwdriver. Rot or corrosion may not always appear on the surface, but it will weaken the surface of the exhaust pipes. If you can poke through the pipe or feel it give under the tool, then it probably needs to be replaced.

6

Start the car and check the engines intake manifold vacuum while it is idling. It should read about 18 inches or so. If it reads lower than that, there is probably a restriction in the exhaust.

7

Remove the cars catalytic converter and hold it up to a bright light: you can diagnose its effectiveness by looking through it. If you can see the light through it, the converter is working fine. If you cant, its plugged and needs to be replaced.

A cars air conditioner that isnt working properly, or isnt working at all, may be caused by a variety of problems, ranging from broken buttons on the console to loose hoses. Although most air conditioning problems need to be fixed by a mechanic, having an idea about what is going on under the hood will help you know what to expect and what questions to ask.

Broken Controls

When you notice a problem with your air conditioning, check the dashboard controls before anything else. Poor air conditioning may simply indicate a broken knob, button or digital display, according to the Auto Media website. See if any of buttons or dials look damaged before you assume that the air conditioning unit itself is experiencing problems.

No Cool Air

Air conditioning units that fail to produce cold air may be lacking rigerant. While it is natural for cars to lose some coolant over time, any significant loss is likely to affect the temperature of the air coming out of the vents. Refilling the coolant is a simple procedure, but a mechanic should test the system for any leaks to prevent the problem from occurring again. Water or oil spots beneath the car may indicate a rigerant leak.

A lack of cool air may also indicate a loose or broken belt, clogged valve or faulty air compressor. Since specialized equipment is often needed to diagnose these problems, they are best handled by a mechanic. If no air is coming out at all, it may be that the blower fan is malfunctioning.

Unpredictable Air

If the air coming from the cars vent is not as cool as usual, or if the cool air is unpredictable, it may be due to ice that has formed in the air conditioning units tubing, according to the Edmunds website. In order to resolve this problem, the system must be vacuumed in order to remove any unwanted moisture. The line may also be blocked by other contaminants. Other causes of partial cooling include a loose drive belt or defective clutch.

Noise

Loose or shaky hoses may cause the air conditioning system to run louder than usual. Unfortunately, noise may also indicate that the compressor itself is going bad. High pressure or contaminated rigerant are other causes of this problem.

Odor

Occasionally, the air coming from your cars vents may have an unpleasant odor. This is almost always caused by bacteria growing in the air conditioning system, reports the AA1 Car website. Even if you can tolerate the smell, the microbes in the air create a health hazard. Solve this problem by having a mechanic spray the system with a chemical solution.

Warranties serve as an assurance that your investment in a truck or automobile will not result in a loss. GMC warranty problems are associated with economic factors that affect the General Motors corporation as a whole.

Identification

Due to the early 21st centurys marked economic downturn, General Motors required massive federal support to maintain operations. The company approached federal courts with a request to keep paying out GMC and other warranty claims. As of 2009, consumers could still access warranty benefits through the help of the Better Business Bureaus Auto-Line.

Features

The BBB Auto-Line functions as a third-party mediator, allowing problems or disputes to be settled outside the official court system. In the event that the dispute results in arbitration, the owner can reject the BBB representatives decision. If the owner accepts it, GM must comply fully with the decision. This applies to all auto-makers involved in Auto-Line, not just GM.

Extension

Investigate GMs offer of an extension on the original warranty if you experience a recall or the need for mechanical repair. This often allows you to preempt potential service charges, and the complications that ensue from a premature expiration.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received several complaints about electrical problems in the 2000 Lexus ES300. Although no deaths or injuries were reported, some consumers are reporting severe and costly damage to their vehicles. As of 2010, no recall has been issued by the manufacturer to repair these problems.

Electrical System and Airbags

Some 2000 Lexus ES300 owners have reported electrical system problems as it relates to the vehicles airbag system. In some cases, the airbags have failed to deploy during an accident. In other cases, drivers have been injured when electric/wiring problems in the air bags failed to protect them during crashes.

Ignition Module

NHTSA has received complaints about electrical problems in the ignition module of the 2000 Lexus ES300. The vehicles may fail to start, and the engine warning light may come on. Some Lexus owners report that replacing the sensors and engine control unit (ECU) remedy the problem, while others continue to experience problems.

Dome Light and Battery

Reports to NHTSA indicate that intermittent electrical problems with the dome lights wiring system may excessively wear down the battery in the 2000 Lexus ES300. One consumer reports having had the battery in her ES300 replaced twice, even after having the dome lights bulb and fuse changed.

Electrical problems in 2007, 2008 and 2009 Chevrolet trucks could result in the meltdown of "heater and washer fluid system" parts and the possibility of fire. The automobile manufacturer has issued recalls with a focus on those potential electrical malfunctions.

History

Chevrolet trucks were subject to two recalls for electrical system malfunctions---one on Aug. 27, 2008, and another on June 4, 2010. Chevrolet trucks from 2007, 2008 and 2009 for which electrical system recalls were issued are the Avalanche, Suburban, Silverado, Traverse and Tahoe.

Recalls

The August 2008 recall focused on a short circuit in the HWFS circuit board in the 2007 and 2008 Suburban, Avalanche, Tahoe and Silverado. The June 2010 recall targeted overheating of the thermal protective chamber around the HWFS fluid chamber in the 2007, 2008 and 2009 Avalanche, Suburban, Silverado, Traverse and Tahoe.

Remedies

To prevent short-circuiting, a fuse was added to the circuit control board of vehicles affected by the 2008 recall. Chevrolet agreed to disable and remove the heater and washer fluid system from vehicles affected by the 2010 recall.

Oil pressure gauges are prone to common problems resulting from regular wear and tear. Its important to make sure the gauge is working. Oil pressure that is too high or low can lead to leaks and engine problems.

Gauge Doesnt Move

Its normal for the oil pressure gauge to remain still while the engine is idling. Try revving the engine. If the gauge doesnt move, it needs to be replaced.

Gauge Fluctuates

While it is common for the gauge to move, it should not fluctuate wildly. If it does this, the gauge has likely gone bad. The 2CarPros website states this is the result of a broken oil pressure sender.

Gauge Too Low

The gauge should give higher readings when gas is applied and the car is moving. It is usually a sign of problems when the gauge stays low.

Gauge Too High

The calibration of oil pressure gauges can be incorrect. The gauge should not show high pressure when the engine is idling or shut off.

Excluding interior bulbs which facilitate convenience, automotive bulbs are as essential to driving safety as a properly working engine. They are used predominantly to make driver intentions visible to others. Mitsubishi recalled their vehicles at least five times for lamp-related problems.

Outlander

In December 2008, Mitsubishi recalled the 2007 and 2008 Outlander models due to a faulty brake lamp switch connected to the LEB brake light bulbs. A malfunctioning switch may cause the brake bulb to not light upon brake application which could result in rear-end crashes.

Lancer

Mitsubishi issued two recalls in 2006 and one in 2009 for the 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. All three recalls were for faulty headlights that did not have amber side reflectors in accordance with federal motor vehicle safety standard, number 108.

Eclipse

On March 23, 2006, Mitsubishi recalled 2005 Eclipse models that were fitted with after-market exterior lighting from Pro-A Motors. Headlight lamps, corner lamps and turn indicators were sold without amber side reflectors in violation of federal motor vehicle safety standard number 108.

The Escape is a compact SUV manufactured by Ford since 2001. According to the AutoBeef website, the most frequent complaint by Ford Escape owners involves problems with the transmission. Though transmission problems can result in an expensive replacement, the issue may involve a simpler repair.

Transmission Fluid Leak

Transmission fluid leaks are one common problem with the Ford Escape. Check underneath the car to see if any reddish-brown colored fluid has pooled. This signifies a transmission fluid leak caused by a broken gasket or bearing leak.

Shifting Issues

Ford Escape owners also report problems with erratic or rough shifting, as well as issues relating to the cars failure to shift into reverse. Problems with shifting can indicate wear of the drive shafts joints. Low transmission-fluid levels may also cause erratic shifting.

Transmission Failure

Failure occurs when the transmission does not successfully shift into the correct gear. Though this can signal the need for a transmission replacement, this type of failure may indicate a problem with the Ford Escapes control module. This module is responsible for completing the shift.

There have been industrywide concerns relating to the performance of accelerators on many vehicles over the last decade. Honda has experienced these issues with many of its vehicles. Problems have included sudden or involuntary acceleration and stuck or rigid accelerator pedals. The NHTSA, a regulating body that administers vehicle safety requirements throughout the U.S., has investigated such problems at length. An increased number of incidents have been reported by consumers in the last five years.

Involuntary Acceleration with the Honda Accord

There have been reports of the Honda Accord gas-electric hybrid model suffering instances of independent acceleration. This involves the car accelerating without pressure after the application of the brakes. In certain incidences, the braking power initially was lost prior to a sudden and unexpected burst of engine acceleration. Investigations have shown that this typically happens when vehicles are driven over uneven surfaces. Given the nature and volume of complaints, further checks may be performed on the model to ensure adequate performance.

Stuck Accelerator in Honda Accord Models

Earlier models of the Honda Accord also suffered intermittent accelerator problems. The most common was the rigidity and fixed nature of the accelerator pedal after an extended period of idleness (reported in the 2001 model). This issue is widespread among many car manufacturers, especially those that produce fuel-injected models. It can be caused by wear to the throttle plate and pedals and can be fixed by lubricating them with a light oil. Although this can help relieve the symptoms of the problem, the throttle and accelerator may still require professional attention.

Sudden Acceleration in the 2004 Honda Pilot

Customer reports concerning the 2004 Honda Pilot suggest the vehicle is prone to sudden acceleration and speed regulation issues. A minimal amount of pressure applied to the accelerator pedal causes a disproportionate amount of speed. This poses a hazard in tight spaces and when maneuvering the vehicle out of parking spaces. The unpredictability of the accelerator and throttle function of the 2004 model persisted to a lesser degree in the 2005 Honda Pilot. Consumers reported that the vehicle can accelerate while the driver is braking.