Q & A #31 With The Auto Specialist
Q & A #31 With The Auto Specialist
Welcome back to the Auto Specialist, a regular column in which I try to diagnose readers’ car problems to help them get back on the road. If this is your first time reading, keep in mind that I can’t see under the hood of the cars. That means my diagnosis – and by extension, my troubleshooting – will be somewhat limited. Having said that, judging from the emails I’ve received, we hit the mark more times than not.
In the last installment, we helped Janice figure out why her Frontier was hesitating when she hit the gas pedal. We also helped Bernard with the cruise control in his Continental. This time, we’re going to address a question about synthetic motor oil from a reader named Tom. We’re also going to help Isaac with his PT’s steering problem.
Let’s get started.
Question: I have a question for you about synthetic oil blends. A friend told me that I should definitely be using them in my Chevrolet Blazer. It’s a 2002 with about 96,000 miles on it. He said synthetics are better for the engine because they offer more protection from friction. The mechanic who works at the garage near my house said it doesn’t really matter. The thing is, synthetic oil costs more than the brand I’m using. I don’t mind spending a little more money if that means my Blazer’s engine will last longer. Especially with nearly 100,000 miles on it. But, I don’t want to spend the money if there’s no difference. What do you think?
Answer: I appreciate your writing in, Tom. Both your friend and the mechanic are correct… sort of. Synthetic motor oil is cleaner with fewer contaminants. It also breaks down more slowly than conventional oils, which means you’ll need to replace it less frequently. So, the cost factor balances itself out. That said, if you haven’t been using it for your Blazer, I wouldn’t start. Synthetics are not suited for high-mileage vehicles.
Question: I drive a 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser with the mileage just over 82,350. It’s a beauty of a car, but my steering wheel is giving me a problem. It’s hard to turn at slow speeds and when I do turn it, I hear a loud creaking sound. If I press on the gas pedal, the steering wheel is easier to turn, but at slow speeds and while idling, it’s really difficult. The other day, I saw a few spots of greenish fluid on my driveway under the engine. Is that steering fluid? If so, what do you recommend I do?
Answer: Thanks for your email, Isaac. It definitely sounds like your Cruiser has a leak. The green fluid on your driveway is probably coolant. Here’s what I suggest: turn your car off, pop the hood, and find the power steering reservoir near the front end of your PT’s engine. Take the cap off and fill the reservoir. Then, crank the engine and take a look for any leaks. There are usually two hoses leading from the steering pump; both can develop leaks. If you find any, have them fixed.
That’s it for today’s installment. Thanks again to Tom and Isaac for sharing their questions. Next time, we’ll take a look at the catalytic converter in a reader’s Volkswagen Passat. We’ll also help another reader decide whether to buy a used Accord from an owner who doesn’t have all of the maintenance records. Be sure to come back for that. Until then, drive safely.
