Car Q & A #3 With The Auto Specialist
Car Q & A #3 With The Auto Specialist
Car problems are never convenient, usually expensive, and always frustrating. Making matters worse, for every problem that is easy to identity (for example, an alternator that have given out), there are hundreds that can leave you scratching your head. In this ongoing feature, we’re addressing random issues that can prevent your vehicle from driving the way it’s supposed to. Today, we have 2 more questions from car owners like yourself.
Question: I was driving to work earlier today and ran over a large strip of metal on the freeway. I couldn’t identify the exact point of contact that the metal made with my tire, but it went completely flat within a few miles. I’ve gotten flats before, but this is the first time my tire has completely gone flat so quickly. Also, there’s a small gash (a couple inches) in the side. Is there any way to repair the tire without replacing it?
Answer: If the metal had only punctured the underside of the tread, you might have been able to fix it. But, a gash in the side is a different story. There’s nothing that you can use to cover it in a way that prevents air from escaping. Unfortunately, the only thing you can do is buy a replacement tire.
Question: Somehow, one of the hoses that leads to my truck’s radiator has developed a small hole in its side. The water that’s supposed to make it to the radiator isn’t getting there. So, my truck’s engine starts overheating every time I try to drive it. A friend of mine replaced the hose, but my engine is having a hard time starting. Can you please tell me what’s going on with my truck?
Answer: Unfortunately, you’re not going to like this news. From what you’ve described, it sounds as if you’ve blown out a head gasket. Engines can’t withstand overheating; if it happens too many times, the heads can warp, causing major problems. If I had to guess, I’d say it’s the head gasket. Prepare yourself. Having your engine repaired is going to be expensive.
In the next Q & A installment, we’ll take a look at a problem that a lot people have with their car’s air conditioner. We’ll also explore the best time to purchase a new car and an issue that a gentleman is having with his vehicle’s power locks (if we have enough time).
The purpose here is to give you a foundation of knowledge about specific car parts. That way, you’ll know when your mechanic is telling you the truth and when he might be more interested in lining his pocketbook. Even better, you’ll eventually learn how to fix a few problems under the hood so you won’t have to take your car into the shop. And that can save both time and money.
