Q & A #65 With The Auto Specialist
Q & A #65 With The Auto Specialist
Welcome back to the Auto Specialist. We’ve spent the past year and a half answering readers’ questions about the problems they’re experiencing with their cars. In some cases, we were able to pinpoint the problem relatively easily, and suggest a solution. In other cases, diagnosing the root cause was practically impossible without being there, pulling the trouble codes from the computer.
It’s worth mentioning this because car problems are always a bit of a mystery, especially without the benefit of personally climbing under the hood. We do the best we can given the circumstances. That said, I want to encourage you to learn as much as possible about your car, the parts that drive it, and how everything works together.
Today, we’re going to take a look at an acceleration problem that Ken is having with his Maxima. We’ll also answer an engine-related question from Laurie. Lastly, we’ll help diagnose a backfire problem Doug is experiencing with his Impala. There’s a lot to cover, so let’s jump right in.
Question: I own a 2000 Nissan Maxima with just over 135,000 miles. Over the last couple of months, I’ve been having a problem accelerating. It usually happens when I’m sitting at a red traffic signal, and hit the gas when I get the green. At first, my car won’t get above 30 mph. Then, after a minute or so, the issue vanishes, and I’m able to accelerate. Also, I’m not sure if this is related, but my transmission has a leak. Can you tell me what is happening, and how much it will cost to fix the problem?
Answer: Thanks for your questions, Ken. The acceleration problem you’re experiencing may be due to a low level of transmission fluid. I’d start there since it’s the least expensive route. Check the fluid, and add more, if necessary. If that doesn’t fix the problem, it may be time to overhaul or replace the transmission. With 135,000 miles on your car, it’s possible the transmission is on the verge of failing. Regarding cost, it’s difficult to say since it is unclear whether you need to fix the leak or replace the assembly.
Question: I’m driving a 2007 Honda Accord with 38,000 miles on it. I don’t actually have a problem with my car. It drives like a dream, and I never have problems with it. My question is regarding an argument my friend and I are having about warming up the engine. I usually start my car, and let it warm up for a few minutes before driving. My friend says that’s unnecessary. He says it just wastes gas. Can you tell me who’s right?
Answer: Thanks for sending in your question, Laurie. Your friend is correct. Modern automotive design no longer requires warming up the engine prior to driving. The assembly will warm up efficiently while you’re on the road. That said, it’s helpful to allow fifteen to twenty seconds for the oil to rise from the pan, and circulate throughout the engine. This ensures proper lubrication, but even this is technically unnecessary.
Question: I have a 2001 Chevy Impala with nearly 112,000 miles. My car backfires whenever I hit the accelerator. On city streets, this isn’t much of a problem (besides the embarrassment and stares from other drivers). On freeways, however, it’s dangerous because I can’t seem to get the power I need when merging. I’ve always taken great care of my Impala, doing preventative maintenance on a regular basis. But it is getting older, so problems are bound to happen. Any idea what’s causing the backfire?
Answer: Thanks for writing in, Doug. The issue you’ve described can be caused by a problem in the ignition system, or low pressure in the fuel line. I’d start by testing the fuel pressure. Normally, the pressure should range between thirty and forty pounds during operation. If it’s outside that range, you may need a new fuel pump. With your ignition system, check your spark plugs. If they’re fouled, replace them.
That’s it for this installment of the Auto Specialist. I’d like to thank Ken, Laurie, and Doug for giving us a shot at addressing their automotive problems. We’ll have a new batch of questions to go through next time. Until then, drive safely.
