Ask Joe: March 2008

Your friendly local automotive advice column

No, Project XJ isn’t done...Joe’s just taking a break this issue from his monthly project update in order to answer a few questions while he really gets up to his elbows working on the Jeep. Next issue, though? Look out. Major updates. Pictures a-plenty. Grease monkey talk galore. Just you wait. Until then...

Q: Lately, when accelerating, my car violently vibrates. It’s an automatic, but I’d say it’s doing this around second gear, when I need to get going. Also, when I make a turn and push the gas pedal halfway down, it’s like my car won’t even accelerate at all. My cousin is able to fix cars, but I need to get an idea for him of what it might be. Can you help? Thank you! R.W.

A: It sounds as if the transmission is thirsting for fluid; the shuddering you’re experiencing may be caused by low or leaking transmission fluid. I would first check your fluid level to make sure it reaches the ‘full’ mark. The transmission may also be worn to the point where it is in need of more than just a fluid service. There are a lot of different shops to call on for transmission service. I like to look at local shops first. See who has been in business the longest, and also check online to read any customer reviews they may have. Don’t be afraid to get more than one estimate. And see what kind of warranty they will offer with their work!

Q: I just purchased an older Trooper, and I need a few things for the interior. I went to a local auto store and they told me that I’d have to get the items (like seatbelts) at a wrecking yard. I’d prefer to get these items brand new, but when I search online, I find only parts that have been pulled. Do you know of a place to get newer interior accessories other than wrecking yards? Is this something only a dealer would have? Michelle R.

A: From what I’m able to find, there is only one Isuzu dealer here in the area (Braley and Graham in Portland). You may find some pieces there, but more often than not you can’t purchase a complete seatbelt assembly from the dealer. Your best bet is to see if aftermarket seat belts might work for you. Autoloc offers 3-point seatbelts (shoulder belts), and you can find their product online. If that doesn’t work for you, there’s always Craigslist—someone may be parting out a Trooper. Or, if all else fails, you might have to just hit the wrecking yard.

Q: I drive a Mazda 626 and recently I’ve been hearing annoying sounds when I use my heater. The sound comes from the floor area, under the dash. I’d love to find out that this is an easy fix so that I don’t have to pay a repair shop, as I’m a single parent. Do you have any thoughts to what this might be? Amy P.

A: It sounds as if two things could be happening. First, it sounds as simple as one of your exterior vents getting hung up (outside debris may be holding it open), allowing air to come in from the outside when it shouldn’t, which can create an annoying whistle. The second thing it could be is a malfunction in your heater blower motor. While not necessarily a hard fix on most vehicles, it can be time consuming. I called a few parts stores in the area, and the blower motor seems to go for about $74. You can save yourself a lot of money by doing the work yourself. Start by picking up a repair manual for your car and see if it is something you might be up to doing. With a little help from a friend, you would be surprised at what you are able to do on your own! Good luck!