Low-mileage Jeep not free from maintenance needs

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July 11, 2009

Auto Scanner The Salem News Sat Jul 11, 2009, 06:00 AM EDT

Q: I have a 2006 Jeep Liberty that I bought new and routinely follow all the manufacturer's maintenance requirements. It has 26,000 miles on it. The dealer's service department recommends that the fluid in the front and rear axle be replaced at 30,000 miles (at a cost of $230). The manufacturer recommends draining the front and rear axle if "prolonged vehicle operation with heavy loading such as: off-highway operation, trailer towing, taxi, limo, bus, snowplowing or commercial service." The dealer insists that New England driving puts the vehicle in this situation. Am I better off following the dealer's instructions or the manufacturer's instructions? It was also suggested that I have the fuel injectors cleaned and throttle service, for an additional $230, plus a tune-up (replacing spark plugs) for $110. This seems like a lot to have done for a car with low mileage and no problems. I want to do the right thing, but not overdo anything, since I am a senior citizen with limited funds to spend on automobile service.

A: My experience with the Jeep Liberty tells me that you should indeed service both the front and rear differentials. You don't need to do the tune-up or the fuel injector cleaning until at least 60,000 miles. Knowing these vehicles as I do, I would recommend two other services: One would be to flush the transmission, and the other would be a power-steering flush. The Liberty is a very nice vehicle, but its maintenance cannot be ignored.

Q: I have a 2000 Honda Civic (automatic). After sitting in traffic for 45 to 60 minutes, my car will begin revving and will accelerate to approximately 40 mph without me touching the gas. Additionally, the temperature gauge will rise to about three-quarters full on the hot side. When this happens, I pull over and put it in park and turn off the engine. When I try and start it back up, it continues to rev, and I cannot get the car out of park. I have brought my car to a few mechanics, and all of them say that the computers say everything is working fine. I know that everything is not working fine, as I have had to get my car towed twice. One mechanic said that the fans are working properly. Could you please provide some insight on this matter?

A: You are right, all is not well. Your car is overheating, and the computer is strategizing how to cool it off. First, it's adding fuel, as fuel cools the cylinder walls. Next, it's revving to increase the fuel pump speed and move that coolant a bit quicker for cooling purposes. Your engine could be getting hot due to fuel starvation, vacuum leak or many other problems, including, but not limited to, a sticking thermostat. You would be wise to pursue the problem before you have a meltdown on this very nice Honda.

Car Care Tip: A musty-smelling air-conditioner unit could be more than just unpleasant to the nose: It could cause serious health problems. Have your automotive professional remove the mold spores for your own health's sake.

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Larry Rubenstein is a master technician who owns a North Shore service station. His column appears every Saturday. Write to Larry at Salem News, c/o Auto Scanner, 32 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA 01915, or send e-mail to scanauto@aol.com.

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