Q: I am the third owner of a 1998 Ford Escort and have spent much to keep my car safe and running. I will be driving at a constant speed and all of a sudden my engine will sputter, struggle and almost conk out. And then it will return to normal. It doesn't happen every ride.
So, what should I do? I am afraid to drive long distances for fear this will happen.
A: An intermittent problem is definitely the worst to diagnose and repair. Because it is an intermittent, it's almost impossible to be 100 percent sure you have nailed the problem. This kind of problem will usually happen due to one of two common problems.
First, the ignition coil and the connector to the coil have been a known problem.
Secondly, the crank sensor has been a problem due to excessive play at the crank shaft.
If both appear OK to your technician, I would recommend putting in an ignition coil and a new connector.
This is a very common problem, and because the problem won't stay in for a long enough time and your computer is not picking up a trouble code, this may be the only practical way to go.
Q: I own a 1999 3.2TL Acura. It's a great car. My first ever problem: the alarm system has developed a mind of its own. In parked position, with the alarm set (all doors locked), within five to 10 minutes the alarm goes off. The problem started during a rainy spell. When not raining, all is quiet for two to four hours before triggering off again. I hate to leave car unlocked. I would appreciate any and all input.
A: Look for an under-hood sensor that may be getting wet. Also, check for wetness under your dashboard on the driver's floor that may be caused by a leaking windshield. If you find that, you can suspect the module is getting wet. If the unit is an aftermarket unit, and it is 10 years old, it has outlived its expected life.
Q: My 2002 Chevy Impala has a problem with the wipers. When the wipers are set on intermittent, the wipers pause in the up position. How can this be corrected? Also, of late, my 2002 check engine light goes on. I have had it to the garage twice, the mechanic resets it, and the light goes back on soon after. I have observed that my gas cap does not seem tight when I go to gas up, despite the fact that I click tight when refueling. Can this cause the engine light to go on? We have five vehicles in the family, and we enjoy your column.
A: Your wiper problem can be resolved by a replacement wiper motor.
Now concerning your check-engine light, of course the light comes back on. Your mechanic has not fixed anything at all. The reset of the computer turns off the light, but the problem is still there. As the computer monitors all the car's systems, it sees the fault and turns on the light.
Next time it turns on, record the problem number and I will give you a path to take for repair.
Car care tip: Warm weather is now here to stay. If you see a dog locked in a hot, closed car, let the local authorities know immediately to save the dog's life.
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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.
