Q & A #41 With The Auto Specialist
Q & A #41 With The Auto Specialist
Welcome back to the Auto Specialist. Recently, I drove past a few car dealerships in my area and noticed that the lots were practically empty. That reminded me of the “Cash For Clunkers” deal that was launched earlier in the year. A lot of folks who were driving older vehicles that were still running well traded them in for newer models. That’s disheartening because I’ve heard that a lot of good vehicles were destroyed. They may have needed a few parts, but they still had a lot of life in them.
For those of you who kept your “clunkers,” the information in the Auto Specialist is more important than ever. Your vehicle is getting older and is bound to experience failing parts and systems. Knowing the root causes will go a long way toward fixing the problem.
Today, we’re going to help a reader named Elaine identify whether her brakes need to be replaced. We’ll also answer David’s question about replacing the engine in his Toyota 4Runner. Let’s jump right in.
Question: I own a 2000 Isuzu Rodeo with 122,400 miles. My car has never given me any problems because I keep it in good condition. I’m diligent about changing the air filter and oil filter, and I have the oil changed every 5,000 miles. Recently, I’ve started to worry about the brakes. I’m hearing a squeal whenever I press the brake pedal and I’m wondering whether they’re going bad. Up until a few years ago, my husband took care of most of the maintenance. So, if the brakes have ever gone bad in the past, he probably had them fixed. Does a squealing noise mean my brakes are going to give out?
Answer: Thanks for writing, Elaine. First, squealing brakes do not pose an immediate danger. They’re not going to suddenly give out. That said, you should take your Rodeo to a mechanic to have him check the pads. If they’re worn, have them replaced. Waiting too long can lead to a damaged rotor, which will cost more to repair.
Even though you didn’t mention it, if you hear a grinding sound, that usually means the pads are almost completely worn. It’s a bad sign and deserves immediate attention from your mechanic.
Question: I’ve had my 1995 Toyota 4Runner since I bought it new. It has just over 187,000 miles. My wife really likes the truck (I do, too), so I don’t want to get rid of it. But, I want more horsepower, so I was thinking of swapping the engine out. It has a standard V-6 and I’d like to put a V-8 into it. Is a swap pretty easy to do?
Answer: Thanks for your question, David. Frankly, I wouldn’t recommend swapping the engine. There’s a lot of effort involved because everything under the hood is designed to work with your current V-6. It is possible to swap it out and drop a V-8 inside. But, there’s no telling whether it will be reliable or if it will even pass the smog test in your state. My suggestion is to either rebuild your V-6 or buy another vehicle.
That’s it for today’s segment. Thanks again to Elaine and David for writing in with their questions. Join me for the next installment of the Auto Specialist when we answer a question from Henry regarding when to change his transmission fluid. We’ll also help Brad figure out his engine’s cranking problem. Until next time, drive safely.
