Q. I’ve a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee Restricted Version that has achieved 249,000 miles. I lately had the transmission serviced (drained the previous fluid, changed the filter and added new fluid) and changed a “dangerous” transmission mount. Since then, I’ve observed slippage and considerably harsh shifts in first and second gear that weren’t current earlier than the service. Any concept what occurred? I’ve maintained the automobile very properly all through its possession. Would it not assist so as to add a transmission fluid conditioner equivalent to Lucas?
A. Since this skid occurred after the transmission was serviced, the very first thing I’d do is verify my very own work. If the filter gasket isn’t put in accurately, the transmission might slip. The opposite chance and what the shop might say is “Nicely, the automotive has achieved 250,000 miles and the fluid change induced the issue”. There are occasions when the brand new fluid washes away the collected varnish and might trigger shifting points. Lucas makes good merchandise, however I’d nonetheless prefer to verify the filter. If all the pieces is put in accurately, attempt Lucas transmission conditioner, it could assist.
Q. I’m shopping for a Tesla Mannequin Y and due to this fact questioning if electrical autos are coated by AAA companies. Looking out the AAA web site and never discovering any data, Tesla isn’t even listed within the “Automotive Information”. Is there roadside help for electrical autos? Does AAA present flatbed towing which is required for all Tesla fashions?
A. AAA tows Tesla and different electrical autos similar to we tow some other automobile. If based on the AAA tow handbook it requires a flatbed truck, that is what we’ll ship. We’re additionally testing cell top-up at a number of places.
Q. I used to be simply studying your article concerning the Ford Edge engine failure. It does not say the place the automotive was bought, but when it is a California emission automobile, purchased new in California or Massachusetts, should not it have an 8 12 months/80,000 mile guarantee on the powertrain?
A. Powertrain guarantee is customary in all 50 states. Car emissions guarantee varies. Ford and different firms have a Federal Emissions Guarantee and a California Emissions Guarantee. At the moment, 14 states and the District of Columbia observe California’s pointers, which improve guarantee protection on sure elements to eight years or 80,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Q. I’ve a 2019 Hyundai Elantra Worth Version. For about six months, my telephone will not keep linked to Android Auto, so I can not use navigation or stream my music. I’ve a Samsung Android, and it labored fantastic earlier than. Now I plug it into USB and it really works for a couple of minutes, the cardboard pops up, however then it begins flashing saying it is not linked. I’ve been to the dealership 4 instances for an issue. They modified the drive however that did not assist. It really works fantastic once they attempt it within the retailer, however as quickly as I stroll away it stops. They declare they took a automotive trip and labored with their telephone, however I do not imagine them. Involved in what you assume. It is not the telephone because it nonetheless expenses my telephone when plugged in. And it additionally stops working when my husband’s iPhone is plugged in. I am at my wit’s finish about this.
A. I looked for technical service bulletins and could not discover any particular to your automotive and Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Some issues I’d attempt, ensure your Android telephone and husband’s iPhone working methods are updated. Additionally use phone-specific cables. I’ve had points with “common” comfort shops or division retailer cables that will not join, however nonetheless cost the telephone. The vendor must also confirm that the Hyundai software program is updated. Sadly telephone know-how is altering quickly and I’ve seen in some older vehicles that when an individual buys a brand new telephone it’s not appropriate with their present automotive.
Q. I lately noticed two movies on-line which have me nervous. One is the benefit with which sure Kia and Hyundai fashions will be geared up with a USB key. The opposite video confirmed somebody utilizing a chunk of paper on the lock and knocking on the door and the air stress between the paper and the door lock unlocks the door. I’ve a Kia Soul and I am afraid of theft.
A. The piece of paper above the door lock is faux and might’t work, simply web nonsense. The Kia and Hyundai downside is actual. If these vehicles haven’t got an immobilizer and a thief breaks the steering column, the ignition will be manipulated. The USB key isn’t plugged into something, it’s used as a screwdriver to activate the ignition. To forestall any automotive from being stolen, lock doorways, park in well-lit areas, and all the time take keys and take away all private and precious gadgets.
Q. I’ve a really restricted funds and once I went to have my automotive inspected, even earlier than it began, I used to be informed it could break down on account of cloudy headlights. I actually cannot afford to spend the additional cash now. I attempted toothpaste to shine the lenses, but it surely solely did harm. Are there cheap or higher no-cost choices to have the automotive inspected?
A. There are DIY kits you possibly can attempt to with somewhat work and round $20 you will get lenses clear sufficient to cross inspection. I requested my radio viewers for options that labored for them. Attempt Insect Repellent Off, spray liberally and wipe, rinse and repeat till lenses look higher. The second is Previous English furnishings polish, I’ve been informed this job is sweet too. I would not anticipate this to final, however it could be sufficient to get the automotive inspected to purchase you adequate time to repair it correctly.
Reader Remark: Dick M. wrote to say that at his age, headlights are one of the crucial vital security options when shopping for a brand new automotive. He additionally urged checking the lighthouse scores at www.iihs.org. Agree, actually, if potential when shopping for a automotive, check the automotive at night time, you possibly can consider each the headlights and the inside lighting.
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