Q: I have a situation with my 2000 Chevy Cavalier, which has approximately 58,000 miles on the odometer. I have never had a major mechanical problem with the car. I have had the brakes done twice at the same shop. I never had a problem with the brakes after, however, I recently had the brakes done at another garage and I continually seem to have a rather loud squeaking noise when I apply the brakes just before making right or left turns, and also when I am exiting the driveway (slight decline) at my apartment building. I reported this to the garage, and they ended up replacing the rear rotors, I think. I went to the garage again yesterday to report the problem is still ongoing. Do you have any ideas as to what the situation could be? Other than this issue, the "Little Bessie," aka the Cavalier, has been a great automobile. I would greatly appreciate your comments on this situation.
A: Most brake-squeal problems are caused by the use of inferior or super-low-priced brake parts. In my opinion, brakes are not the place you want to cheap out. At my shop we have tried different brands of brake pads and have put a number of products on our "do not buy" list. If the problem is not caused by improper installation of the brake pads, then I would insist on having Napa Application Engineered brake pads. This will resolve your problem when new Napa pads and rotors are properly installed on a prepared hub. Brake squeal is not acceptable and does not have to stay with your car now that new, improved brake pads and rotors are readily available. Let me know how "Little Bessie" is doing after you have the recommended repairs performed.
Q: I own an '03 Jeep Wrangler with 40,000 miles. I replaced an oxygen sensor about a year ago through the dealer. Last month I replaced another through a local garage. Since then, the engine light is intermittent on for a couple of days/off for a couple of days. It's always solid, never flashing. The vehicle drives well. Last week I took it back to the dealer. I told them about the second oxygen sensor being after market. They ran all kinds of diagnostics, including the after-market sensor. What they came up with was a bad computer to the tune of $500, including installation. What do you think?
A: It is not uncommon that a computer needs to be changed on a car after the manufacturer finds a defect. You didn't mention whether the check-engine light this time was for the same oxygen sensor problem, or indeed a new code. If your computer just has a software issue, a computer flash (update) should be available at the Jeep dealer. Your computer failing so early in the life of this jeep is considered unacceptable by me. If the computer does have to be replaced, I would certainly lobby the manufacturer for consideration on price due to the age of the vehicle. I have performed a search of the All Data Web site, and I did not find a technical service bulletin, or an issue with the computers on the '03 Wrangler.
Car Care Tip: It will cost you nothing to have your mechanic check for free-spinning wheels while your car is up on the lift for an oil change. Dragging brakes can be brutal on your budget, reducing your fuel mileage by as much as 40 percent or more.
rrr
Larry Rubenstein is a master technician who owns a North Shore service station. His column appears Tuesday in BizNorth. Write to Larry c/o BizNorth, 32 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA 01915, or send e-mail to scanauto@aol.com.
