December 2006
12-29-2006
Dave: When I turned on the heater in my Chevy van for the first time this year, I found that no matter where I put the switch, heat came out the defroster, especially when I was going uphill. I looked for a broken switch or even a cable that would re-direct the flow to the vents, defroster or to the floor, but failed to see one. Is it worth taking it to get fixed? So far it hasn't gotten cold enough to be a concern but the winter is just starting. So what do you think? Ralph, Encinitas.

Ralph: The problem won't get any worse or any better. Most vehicles use a vacuum system to operate the blend air door on the climate control system. The vacuum opens and closes a door that directs either the cold or warm air to the vents, floor or defroster vents. Sounds like your Chevy has a vacuum leak that's probably due to a broken vacuum hose. Getting to the problem could be a bigger problem. Depending on where the break is the whole dash may need to be removed or maybe just the glove box. You won't know until someone digs into it. Once the repair is fixed, you may end up with a dash rattle, squeak or groan, which happens when the dash has been removed and replaced. It usually drives most people crazy. Pray for a warm winter!

Dave: I went through a carwash the other day and forgot to lower my car's power antenna. Now there's a metal shaft draped down the side of my car and if I turn off the radio, it drags itself up the side of the car causing scratches to the paint. The antenna works but the dealer wants $300 to replace the entire antenna shaft. The labor alone is more than the complete antenna assembly. Why does the radio still work and the antenna goes up and down, yet the mast is broken? Why can't I just buy an antenna shaft and replace that? Laura, Oceanside.

Laura: There are many cases just like this, such as when you need a headlight lens but you have to buy the whole light assembly from the dealer. Or when a wheel bearing may be bad, but you must buy the whole hub assembly. You could bypass the power antenna and replace it with a rigid antenna that only goes up and down manually. You will have to drill a hole in your fender or snip off the old antenna and stuff a coat hanger in the hole. You should get decent reception, but the car may look a little hokey (like the car with clear plastic sheets replacing a broken window).

12-22-2006
What's the key to getting this Camry easy to unlock?

Dave: I just bought a used Toyota Camry and found that the one key works on all the locks, including the ignition switch but the passenger door has to be operated by a different key. The dealership said I had to buy a complete lockset to have one key work on all locks. When I heard the price, I almost fainted. What's my next step? Carlos, Escondido.
Carlos: The easiest way to solve your problem is to call a mobile automotive locksmith and have the passenger door lock cylinder re-keyed. The cost will be minimal, considering the parts and labor to change all locks. If you can't find one in the phone book, call any dealership and ask the service manager for a recommendation.

Dave: What does it mean when your pickup won't start when the shifter is in "park" but will start in "neutral?" Bill, San Marcos.
Bill: Have the neutral safety switch checked out. It may be a simple adjustment or a replacement of the switch.

Dave: Do vehicles have to have hubcaps to drive? Flo, Rancho Bernardo.
Flo: Hubcaps aren't necessary to drive a vehicle. They just make a vehicle look more presentable, plus they help cool the brakes.

Dave: Will it hurt my 2000 Chevy Cobalt if I run it with straight water in the cooling system and no thermostat? It won't stop overheating! Greg, Temecula.
Greg: You must run a thermostat in your Cobalt and you should have at least 50/50 water/coolant in the cooling system. Take it in to see what the real problem is. It could be a bad radiator, fan switch, radiator cap or overflow system, just to name a few. Overheating is the No. 1 killer when it comes to engine failure.

Dave: I got laid off and my vehicle had a flat tire on the same day. How long and far can I drive on my space-saver spare tire? Rick, Encinitas.
Rick: I presume money is tight and you can't afford a new tire. I can't give you a recommendation concerning the tire life of your space-saver. I'll just say to get a new or used tire as soon as possible. With rainy weather on the way, you'll wish you didn't have the space-saver on the ground!

12-15-2006
Cross country trip adds wear and tear to van's transmission

Dave: I just transferred to Camp Pendleton from the East Coast and on the way out I started having problems the transmission on my wife's 2000 Dodge Minivan, which has 123,443 miles on it. The van acts as if it's in second gear all the time. A buddy who went to Transmasters in Encinitas with his van was happy with the price and the support they show to Marines. Why would I ask you if Transmasters is a good shop since I have a good recommendation? Everyone on base who has been here awhile has recommended I contact you. Thanks for all you do to help support the Marines. By the way, I saw you at Camp Lejune last year doing "Driven2Dare Training." Great job! Cpl. Thomas, Oceanside.

Cpl. Thomas: Thanks for the kind words. I love doing the Driven2Dare Training. There's nothing like giving back to those who protect us and our freedom on a daily basis. Transmasters advertises on my radio show and I can tell you they will do the right thing for the military or anyone else who needs transmission work. I put my name on their reputation, so stop by and tell them I said "hi!"

Dave: Since the L.A. Auto Show just finished up, does that mean we're going to get some of the concept cars at the San Diego Auto Show? And if so, when is our show? I've been to the San Diego show in the past and it seemed a little boring - kind of like a big dealership under one roof. Will you be there broadcasting your radio shows live? Frank, Vista.

Frank: I've been told by a very reliable source that you're going to love this year's show. You're correct that with L.A. being just ahead of us, this allows the manufacturers to leave vehicles on the West Coast. So we should be in for a treat when it comes to concept vehicles and custom cars as well. The show runs from Dec. 27 to the 31 and yes, KCEO AM 1000 will be on air live from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday. On Sunday, the ESPN Radio show "RPM Today" will air also from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information, go to www.sandiegoautoshow.com.

12-08-2006
Louver-less Supra needs a quick fix
Dave: Do you remember the louvers that were popular a few years ago? They mounted on the back windows of hatchbacks. Do you know if they're still being made for today's cars? I just bought an old Toyota Supra that once had a louver but now it's missing. It gets really hot in the cargo area and I'd like to get a new one. Hope you can help me out. Pedro, Escondido.

Pedro: I just Googled "automotive rear window louvers" on the Internet and found a company called Spoilers 4 Less that has a good selection. Hopefully you didn't buy a 1982 Supra because that's the only year there's no louver. Before sending in your money, find out how it mounts to make sure you don't have to do any minor bodywork, such as filling in the old mounting holes. If that's the case, then you want to do that first to stop any rust coming through at a later date.

Dave: I'm getting ready to put new brake pads on my wife's mini van but my pain-in-the-neck father-in-law said I have to turn the rotors to get a perfect job. I looked at removing the rotors and it seems to be a pain. Can it harm the mini van if I just put pads in the calipers and leave it at that? Don't get me wrong, I want my wife and kids to be safe but money is tight right now. I can't afford to take it to a real shop and the pads are grinding when the vehicle comes to a stop. Hope you side with me! Bill, Oceanside.

Bill: You're not going to like my answer: Your father-in-law is correct. The reason you need to turn the rotors is to break the glaze off the new rotors so the new pads seat properly. Pads will last longer and the chances of squeaking or squealing are diminished. Depending on how many miles are on the mini van, it would be a good time to grease the front wheel bearings and lube the caliper pins. Lubing the caliper pins is very important as it assures the calipers are compressing evenly for a straight, solid stop.

12-1-2006
Is toilet paper the solution to a cleaner engine?
Dave: I was going through my grandfather's stuff the other day (he passed away a few months ago, a real car guy) and I came across a box with an oil filter in it. I think it's called the Haines Filter System and it seems to be all there. But the instructions say it needs a roll of toilet paper to complete the kit. The advertisement states that by using a roll of toilet paper as the filter, an engine runs cleaner and lasts longer. What should I do with this? Would it work on my 2004 Dodge minivan? I've asked a few of my friends and they said it's worthless - just toss it. What would you do with it? Roger, Murrieta.

Roger: What would we do without friends? You don't want to toss that system out. In fact, it may have some value. That system was very popular back in the '50s and it worked pretty well as long as drivers changed the toilet paper roll regularly. Today's oil filters are better designed to capture all the things an oil filter is supposed to catch, plus there's no room under the hood of today's vehicles to accommodate the old system. I would put it on eBay or take it to a big automotive swap meet to see if you can sell it.

Dave: I have a Nissan supercharged pickup that demands premium gasoline. I've been driving the truck for over a year using nothing but unleaded gas and have had no problems. This makes me think that Nissan is in with the gas companies and are just trying to sell gas. Just thought you would want to know. Carl, Escondido.

Carl: Nissan is not "in" with the gas companies. Have you checked your truck's fuel mileage recently? That engine is a high output engine and needs the octane boost for maximum performance. Glad to hear it's running well today but you could end up with valve train problems or at least injectors clogging up in the near future. At least add a fuel treatment such as Techron to the gas once a month. Good luck!

Dave: Bumper Express repaired my car's bumper a few years back. Now I have an issue and can't find the company. Any ideas as to where it went? Janet, Vista.

Janet: Dave O'Bine was the owner, but I heard he moved to Texas. I've been trying to reach him as well, but with no luck.

November 2006
11-24-2006
Flying hubcaps cause marital problems
Dave: What is the purpose of hubcaps? I have them on my wife's mini van and they keep flying off when she's on the freeway. She is bugging me to get replacements but I won't buy the factory hubcaps because they are so expensive. But the aftermarket hubcaps are the ones flying off (someone stole all the factory hubcaps). I told her not to worry about hubcaps, as they are only for show. Plus, won't her brakes stay cooler without them? Bill, Encinitas.

Bill: Actually hubcaps, especially the factory hubcaps, are designed to push air to the brakes and keep them cool. Aftermarket hubcaps are not quite as efficient, but they do look good. Driving around without hubcaps is a little tacky but won't hurt a thing (except your relationship with your wife). I recommend trying to find the original factory hubcaps at a hubcap shop in town or going to the wrecking yards to see if you can find the original hubcaps. Good luck!

Dave: I bought a used 1999 Dodge Caravan LE that's a great car but the third row seat is missing. I could use that third row seat as my kids have been sitting in lawn chairs wherever we go. It seems a bit unsafe, but buying the third row seat from the dealer is too expensive for my budget. Any ideas on where I could find a third row seat? I don't care what color it is as long as it fits. Phil, Temecula.

Phil: Using lawn chairs is not only dangerous but illegal. Seats must be secured to the floor to meet all safety standards, plus seat belts must work with the seat. Check newspapers and the internet for parts and equipment book or call the wrecking yards to have them do a search. I would also call shops that do van conversions and see if they have a third row seat. If all else fails, have captain's chairs mounted in the rear by a conversion company and safely haul your family.

Dave: How hard would it be to put dual exhaust on my 2006 Honda Civic? I love the sound of a V8 and I thought by installing dual exhaust I would get that throaty sound you hear in a V8 without having to buy one. Look forward to your response. Chad, Vista.

Chad: Save your money. You need four more cylinders and a smog law that would allow it. Plus, Honda will not comply. Grab a CD with V8 sounds and crank it up!

11-17-2006
Do high performance cars need breaking in first?

Dave: I've noticed that many high performance cars today comes with Mobil One synthetic motor oil in their engines. I thought you had to break in an engine, driving it at least 3,500 miles before putting in synthetic motor oil? Do they run the engines 3,500 miles? If so, shouldn't the powertrain warranty be extended 3,500 miles? Just curious. Bill, Vista.

Bill: That's a good question. Many high-end cars do run Mobil One and are pre-run on a dyno in a static state before being delivered to the customer. Manufacturers do this to make sure the horsepower is where it should be and everything is tight and leak free. If you are that concerned about the powertrain warranty, you probably wouldn't want to buy a high performance car. There are a lot of cars available that provide plenty of performance without having to spend a lot on maintenance and upkeep.

Dave: I just bought a black on black 2005 Corvette ZO6 that I love, but I have a question about the run-flat tires. I checked the price of the replacement tires and I had no idea they would be that expensive. Is there an alternative to the run flats? Do I have to run them or could I opt for a less expensive tire? Love the car, but the tire price is a killer. Joe, Escondido.

Joe: There is an alternative but the initial cost is rather expensive. To switch from run-flat to standard tires, you need to replace the rims along with the tires. The cheaper you go with replacement tires, the more the ride and handling of the Corvette diminishes. I would think this over carefully before going down that road. It could become a costly mistake on your part. Good luck.

Dave: What's the deal with Harley Davidson motorcycles? Are they as good as they say? I'm in the market for a cruiser and I'm looking at Harley, Honda and BMW, just to name a few. When I price bikes, the Harley ends up on the low end of the option and benefits list, so why Harley Davidson? Plus, you can't take one out for a road test so how do you know if it's the right bike for you? Appreciate your answer. Darrell, Encinitas.

Darrell: As the commercial states, "If I have to explain it, you won't understand." It's a traditional type of deal. You're right - the competition is far more advanced, not just technically but in its ride as well. You can rent a Harley for the day or go to a motorcycle event where there's a Harley Davidson ride truck so you can test ride the complete line of bikes, providing you have a motorcycle license. I ride a Harley because I have ridden the competition and they don't compare. Harley truly has kept the legend alive

11-10-2006
Leasing: Deal or no deal?
Dave: I can't decide if I want to lease a new car or buy it outright. I hate repairing my vehicles and I can afford a new car, but I lose so much money every time I trade it in that I feel as if I'm being ripped off by the dealer. A lot of my friends say leasing is a bad deal and the only ones who come out on top are the dealers. What is your take on leasing? Clyde, Ramona.

Clyde: There's only a downside to leasing if you usually put a lot of miles on your vehicle. Lease companies will keep your mileage down to around 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. If you go over that number, it can cost an additional 20 cents a mile. I've seen situations where that ends up costing thousands of dollars. I suggest leasing when someone is just looking for transportation. Lease companies or the manufacturers will even cover your maintenance for the length of the lease, so all you pay for is the fuel. Plus, you get a new vehicle every two to three years, depending on how long the lease is for. One more thing to consider is that you must take good care of the vehicle since it is not yours. You are responsible for worn tires, body or paint damage and worn interior. In other words, if you trash the lease vehicle, you will pay to put it back to like-new condition. But if you're a sensible person, leasing is a great way to go. Check it out at a dealer that carries the kind of vehicles you like and see if it fits your budget and driving style. Hey, you get a new vehicle every couple of years - how cool is that? If you buy a vehicle, once you hit the street it loses a ton of money and depreciates as you drive it. Then you have to sell it to a private buyer to help recoup your money. But if you buy new or lease new, there are no smog inspections for the first six years. That truly is a bonus.

Dave: My vehicle's headlights have become so foggy that I can't drive at night. The dealer said I have to replace the headlights. I tried washing and waxing them, but they are still very dim. New ones cost over $300 a piece. The car has lots of miles on it and is more than five years old, but it is all I can afford. Any ideas? Gina, Temecula.

Gina: You're in luck - all you need is an electric drill and a trip to NAPA or another large parts house. There's a new product for buffing foggy headlights that's attached to the end of an electric drill. The pad is impregnated with a chemical that buffs off the glaze on your headlights, bringing them back to brand new condition. Once the headlights are buffed clean, just throw away the pad. The kit comes with enough pads to do more than one and costs around $6. That's far better than $300 each!

11-3-2006
Disc jockey may have jockeyed van too much on the road
Dave: I loaned my Ford Areostar to a friend who needed a van to haul his gear for a weekend disc jockey job. I drove it the next day and the transmission slipped when cold. I asked my friend if he ran over something that could have damaged to the transmission. He said no, but also noticed the transmission slipped first thing in the morning. We inspected the transmission together, which was one pint low on fluid. But the bottom of the transmission wet with oil, although it wasn't dripping and there was no damage to the transmission case or pan. The transmission cross member, which holds the transmission in the vehicle, was also wet. Could my friend have done anything to the van's transmission to cause the wetness under it? If so, should he be responsible for any repairs that it needs? Bob, Vista.

Bob: I'm sure once you refilled the transmission with fluid that it shifted fine. By your description of the wet transmission, it sounds more like a seeping transmission pan gasket. The reason it wasn't leaking on the ground is because when a transmission seeps, the fluid is very light and it gets blown back towards the rear of the van as a spray, subsequently soaking the cross member. Take it to a transmission shop for service on the transmission. As far as your friend goes, he doesn't owe you anything but replacement of gas he may have burned and maybe a few dollars for borrowing the van.

Dave: I read your suggestion concerning tire pressure tires and I disagree. You should go by the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations because manufacturers build the vehicle to run on a specific tire pressure. By altering the pressure, you change to ride of the vehicle. Otherwise, your suggestions are right on. Carl, Temecula.

Carl: I'm afraid I must stand by my tire pressure recommendations. By getting tire pressure information off the tire sidewall vs. the owner's manual or the door jam. The main reason I suggest the side wall inflation information is that we don't check our tires on a regular basis and a tire can lose up to a pound of air a month. The vehicle information is lower than the tire manufacturer information and you will end up with a lower tire pressure sooner and possibly end up with a tire problem. I recommend putting tire pressure five pounds under the maximum tire pressure allowed by the tire manufacturer. For example, if the maximum is 45 psi then I recommend 40 psi. This gives the tire a chance to grow in tire inflation once it gets hot out on the open road. Tire pressure increases as the tire gets hot and loses air once it cools down. One question for you Carl: When you change tire size, then where do you get inflation information? Off the sidewall of the new tire. I rest my case.

October 2006
10-27-2006
Chevy's drum brakes change to a different beat

Dave: I just inherited a 1952 Chevy four door sedan from my grandfather that has drum brakes at all four corners. It's in perfect condition and I plan to hit the car shows next season. It's sat for a while and the brake pedal now goes to the floor. My son and I are going to do a little bonding by working on it together. After we replace the brake master cylinder and all the wheel cylinders, flush out the brake lines and install new brake shoes after the drums have been turned, how do we adjust the brakes? I know you use the star adjuster but I don't know how tight to go without damaging the new shoes or drums. Appreciate all your advice throughout the years. Tom and Josh, San Marcos.

Tom and Josh: It's been awhile since I adjusted drum brakes. First, replace all the rubber brake hoses, inspect the emergency brake system to make sure it works properly and replace any components that look rusted or worn. Then raise the car on jack stands and bleed the brakes, starting at the left rear then go to the right front, then the right rear and then the left front. Once all the air is out (you may have to bleed the system more than once) and you have a good pedal, adjust each brake assembly up to where the drum starts to drag to a stop and back off the star adjuster three turns. You should have a light drag on the drum and shoes. Do this it all four drums and adjust the hand brake last. Then take the car out and do light braking to see if the car brakes in a straight line. If it doesn't, you may have one brake tighter than the other. I'm sure a lot of older readers have a different method and if so, e-mail me at stalld@cox.net.

Dave: I just got a brand new ATV for my birthday. As I have never ridden one before, I feel I should take a safety class. Where would you suggest I go? I plan to get the rest of the family one so we can enjoy the desert together. Chad, Oceanside.

Chad: Happy birthday! Go to www.atvsafety.org for an instructor close to you or call (800) 887-2887. You may want to check with the dealership you got your ATV from, as it may offer the class free of charge (which normally run around $125 for a rider over the age of 18). Since you plan to buy more ATVs, I'm sure the dealership will foot the safety class bill for your family. Don't forget to dress accordingly!

10-20-2006
Locking gas cap has locked owner out

Dave: I've lost the key to my locking gas cap. What is my next step? I can't get a wrench on the cap since it's recessed into the vehicle's body. I thought about just taking it back to the dealer. If I took it to a locksmith, how much would this cost? I stopped driving it until I can figure out my best course of action. Hope you can get back to me soon, as my truck is a real gas guzzler! Wayne, Temecula.

Wayne: I'm assuming this gas cap is an after-market cap so the dealership service department wouldn't have a master key. I would call a few locksmiths who specialize in automotive locks and most likely they should be able to pick your vehicle's gas cap lock. If that fails, take it to a body shop. They run into this at times and will be able to help. I have no idea what the cost will be but I can't imagine it being more than $50. Get an estimate first!

Dave: My 1999 Ford Taurus has an ongoing transmission leak I've been chasing for a couple of years. I've had no luck finding a shop that can stop it. I won't tell you how much money I have poured into the transmission, but it is as much money as fluid! My family loves the car. I have been to the dealer and two independent transmission shops with no luck. Who would you take it to? I'll let you know the outcome. Your response is deeply appreciated. Bill, Encinitas.

Bill: Since you were nice enough to tell me the name of the transmission shops you have been to as well as the dealership, I can give out the name Transmasters transmission shop with total confidence. I've worked with Rick Fry at the Encinitas location (184 N. Highway 101) many times and he's an expert when it comes to transmissions, both manual or automatic. Call him at (760) 635-0881. Most likely Fry will put a transmission dye in the transmission oil, drive the vehicle and then use a black light to find out just where the leak is. I would leave it with him for a couple of day so he can make sure the leak is stopped.

10-13-2006
Dave: I own a 1994 Chevrolet Camaro V8 with an automatic transmission in it. It has 145,334 miles on it and at time it doesn't want to start, no click, engine doesn't turn over, nothing. It has a security chip devise under the dash and if I wiggle that it starts at times. Now it is sitting dead in my driveway, I will need to tow it to a shop but I'm concerned that it will cost me more than the car is worth. Do you have any idea as to what could be wrong? Chad, Vista.

Chad: Well doing diagnosis on paper is somewhat of a challenge but the first thing I would do is remove that security chip and put the Camaro back to stock condition. I would do that before I took it into a shop, why? Because there will be added diagnosis money he will charge you to determine if that system is working or not. Once you have removed it and it still doesn't start it can be only four other things, the battery, the starter, the starter relay or the ignition switch. If the battery is good I would guess the ignition switch. Chevrolet puts a chip in the key to keep people from stealing the car and with age that chip system either fails in the key or in the ignition switch. If you have an extra GM key try that and if it still doesn't start you at least no its not the key. How much is it going to coast you? Hard to say but I'm sure it will be under $500, good luck and keep me informed.

Dave: I have a 1999 dodge caravan with around 200,000 miles on it and the other day while I was heading home from work I heard a bell sound coming from the dash and I noticed a temp signal on the dash and looked at the temperature gauge and it was pegged on the hot line. I pulled over and opened the hood and found a couple of containers of water in the back of the van and I started pouring water on the radiator and when the temperature gauge started to drop off hot I opened the radiator and found it to be almost empty. A Good Samaritan stopped and had five gallons of water he gave me, I filled the radiator and the temperature went to normal eventually. I started to drive and after about five miles it started to go up to hot again so I took it to a repair shop and left it. Now my question, when my husband showed up and had me tell my story he said I should have shut the engine off immediately so as not to damage the engine, is he correct? I didn't think so I felt by shutting off the engine I could do more damage by not have water running through the engine and by adding water while it ran it would cool the engine down gradually not shocking the engine by adding water to a engine that is not running but getting hotter by the minute. My dad taught me that a long time ago but my husband said I was wrong, what do you say? Karen, San Marcos.

Karen: I love getting in the middle, I would say you were 95% correct but if you had a stuck thermostat and it was stuck closed you would not have had any water circulation and you could have damage the engine but I feel you did the right thing!

10-7-2006
Dead battery shows some signs of life
Dave: I went on a trip last weekend in my 1989 Chevy van. All went well until I got to my destination. After shutting the engine off, I realized I had to move the van but it wouldn't start. So I hooked up jumper cables and still nothing. AAA jump started it and it ran, then died and wouldn't start again. I decided to replace the six-year old battery and now everything works fine. Why couldn't I jump start my own van and why would the battery die so fast? Love your column. Phillip Oceanside.

Phillip: Let's start with the fact that your van had a six-year old battery. Most batteries only last three to five years and yours was rather exceptional. As far as jumping your battery, a couple of things could have caused the problem. One is the other vehicle may not have had the cables hooked up metal to metal, or maybe had a bad ground, or possibly the cables were bad. The tow truck has a lot more power to start stranded vehicles than your jump vehicle had. The reason your vehicle died once it started is that there wasn't enough power being generated at idle to keep the computer in your van charged. At idle, your battery does a lot of the work. Above idle, the alternator kicks in and takes over for the battery due to excessive electrical demand. Since you just got a new battery, I would put it on a trickle charger to make sure it is fully charged because you don't know how long it sat on the shelf at the parts store. One more thing; if the person putting the battery in didn't do a cable service, have that done to eliminate corrosion and extend the life of the battery.

Dave: I want to put dual exhaust on my new Honda Civic SI. Where would you suggest I go? The dealer said it doesn't sell a dual exhaust system and thought it wouldn't pass emissions when tested. Raphael, Escondido.

Raphael: Why would you want to put dual exhaust on a four-cylinder engine? You may cause more problems by doing so, plus I don't think it would pass smog inspection. A dead give away is not being able to find a bolt-on dual exhaust system. If it's not available from part suppliers (who for the most part abide by the smog laws), there's a reason. The exhaust on your SI is specially tuned for performance, so I would leave it alone.

Dave: I've noticed a lot of customizes shave and fill in the door handles. Why do they do that? If it's for looks, I think it takes away from the car's design, especially if it's a car from the late '40s or '50s. Door handles are a sign of the good old days and today's plastic handles are a piece of art and should stay on the doors, plus it makes it a lot easier to open! Jeff, Del Mar.

Jeff: To each his own. I respect your comments.

September 2006

9-29-2006
Why ruin a car's looks with a license plate?
Dave: I'm in seventh heaven because I just bought a brand new 2006 Corvette. I must admit your review of the Corvette in the "North County Times" caused me to consider it. I previously owned a 1975 model that I had very bad luck with and it drove like a truck. The problem I'm having with the new Corvette is the front license plate. If I install it on the front bumper where it belongs, it really looks ugly and takes away from the Corvette's beautiful lines. How strict are the front license plate laws? Why do we have to have front plates anyway? Cops chase us from behind, don't they? I'm not happy about breaking the law but this is going to ruin the look of my new car. Lisa, Del Mar.

Lisa: I feel your pain but unfortunately laws are laws. Not putting on the front license plate just gives a police officer a reason to stop you. Automotive designers don't take the front plate into consideration when designing a new vehicle. But thanks to the red light camera systems that are springing up all over the country, you'll see better designed front plate locations in the future. The stop light camera system has become a revenue builder, so many cities are adopting this program. Plus, it does save lives since a lot of us drivers just have to run that yellow/red light. I agree with you, but there's a plate fastened securely to my vehicle's front bumper.

Dave: I heard rumors that the Indian Chief motorcycle is coming back from the grave. Is that true? I love the looks of the Indian Chief and would love to own one. The last attempt to bring them back was a total failure. I rode one and it was terrible. I know you're the "car" guy around town but I was hoping you could shed some light on the Indian. Thanks. Pierre, Oceanside.

Pierre: I could be the "motorcycle" guy around town as well because I do have news about the Indian Chief. It's coming back mid-2007 with only one model. It's being built in Kings Mountain, N.C. and the company just got another $30 million in revenue to help launch the new Indian. If you would like to know more, check out www.indianmotorcycle.com. I truly wish them all the luck and hope this new bike is successful.

9-22-2006
Owner can't see through sunroof issues
Dave: I'm the proud owner of a new Toyota Rav 4 that I love. I've had it about three months, but the other day when I came out from work I noticed that the sunroof looked like tiny crystals. I touched it and it started to crumble. I immediately showed it to a Toyota dealership service advisor and he said he'd seen this before. When I asked the service manager if it was covered under my warranty, he said glass problems had to be seen by the factory representative and that I was in luck as the factory rep was coming to his dealership the next day it. Well, I just got a call to say it wasn't covered under warranty as the factory representative stated that something hit it (but could not tell what) and therefore wasn't covered under warranty. I could understand it if they found a rock or something on the front seat, but the sunroof was bulging upwards as if the heat caused the glass to explode. I asked to have it repaired but I'm not comfortable with paying more than $700 when I don't feel it was my fault. What would you recommend I do next? I read your column and listen to you on KCEO all the time (I was too nervous to call your radio program) and value your opinion. Thanks in advance. Patti, Encinitas.

Patti: It's unfortunate that Toyota has slipped in its customer care procedures. I used to be a service manager for Toyota for 10 years and when in doubt, we gave it to the customer. In your case, if the factory rep couldn't find the real cause of the sunroof exploding, then you should be compensated with a new sunroof. The next step is to file a complaint with Toyota; the forms are in the back of your owner's manual. If this fails, I would take the dealership to small claims court. It was a smart move having the sunroof repaired at the dealer as this helps your case. All you should ask for in court is the cost of the sunroof replacement and court costs. You should get your money back. Thanks for the kind words and call in on my radio show next time. It's really a lot of fun. Call me on my cell phone at (760) 715-5507 if you have any other questions.

Dave: Is the Speed Festival still on out at North Island this year? I went last year and it was a blast. I want to take my brother's kids next year when they're here on vacation. Ralph, Murrieta.

Ralph: The Speed Festival is alive and well. Chrysler's SRT division is now a title sponsor for the next three years and its involvement should put a little performance into the show. The event is Oct. 7 and 8 out at North Island on Coronado. Find out more at www.fleetweeksandiego.org, click on events and then scroll down to the SRT Coronado Speed Festival. See you there!

9-15-2006
Is 1965 Cadillac a collectible or a money pit?
Dave: I just inherited a 1965 Cadillac convertible that doesn't run and has a lot of rust on the hood, front fenders and at the rocker panels. The best part is that I didn't have to pay for it. Should I try to restore it? My wife says it looks more like a money pit. I personally like the old Cadillacs and feel it may be worth fixing up. What would you do? Ralph, Del Mar.

Ralph: I like the old Cadillacs myself, especially convertibles, but your wife may be right. Rust kills most cars and there's a limit as to what you should invest. Plus, the 1965 isn't one of the more desirable Cadillacs. Are you planning to fully restore it? Rat Rod it, which means you leave the rust and just make it a daily driver. Or hide the rust and enjoy the convertible. You're in San Diego and it didn't cost you anything to own it other than what it's going to cost you to make it road worthy, which could be substantial. Tough call Ralph. Good luck.

Dave: How do you get a car on a show like "Pimp My Ride?" I'd like to see my father on it. He's a great guy who loves the car collecting hobby but has six kids and can barely make ends meet. His birthday is coming up and I would love to surprise him. Hope you can help. Gloria, Escondido.

Gloria: That would be a nice gesture, but the number of people who want their rides pimped is unbelievable. I would go to the website www.pimpmyride.com, send in the most compelling, tear jerking story you can come up with and hope for the best. Just make sure the story is true or you're just wasting your time.

Dave: Is there any truth in the prediction that gasoline prices may hit $4 by the end of the year? I'm considering taking a job that requires a 125-mile roundtrip commute. The starting pay is much less than what I'm making now and I only drive four miles roundtrip in a 1998 Ford Bronco. I just bought gas the other day for less than $3 and I'm hoping this may be a trend. What do you think? Enrique, Temecula.

Enrique: A lot of factors determine gas prices and many of those factors come from human influences. I can't really predict the future but if I were a gambling man, I would say this downward trend will be short lived and we'll see $4 by Christmas. I hope not, but gas companies have found out we will buy gas at any price to get from point A to point B. This is one time I hope I'm wrong.

9-8-2006
Is the car of her dreams really a nightmare waiting to happen?

Dave: I bought the car of my dreams, a 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse. It has the four-cylinder engine, an automatic transmission and 17-inch custom wheels, which really make it stand out. The car is as clean as a brand new penny. The gentleman is asking $6,500 plus my old clunker, which isn't worth more than $500. Does the price sound right? Let me know ASAP since I gave him a $200 deposit to hold it until I got your answer. Also, if I don't buy the car do you think I will get my $200 back? Thanks for being there. Lynn, Escondido.

Lynn: This is one of the best cases of buying a vehicle with your heart instead of your head. The first thing you need to do is take it to a Mitsubishi dealer or a repair shop you can trust for a complete pre-purchase inspection. Since you won't be getting any kind of a warranty, I strongly recommend getting the car checked out before you give him any more money. If it turns out it has issues, you can use what it would cost to put the car on the road as a negotiating tool, deducting the cost of repairs before buying the car. He's responsible for smogging the vehicle, so make sure he smogs it before giving him any more money. Also, look at the pink slip to make sure it isn't a "Salvage Title." If it is, I wouldn't buy the car. A "Salvage Title" lowers the value dramatically. Buy with your head, not your heart. No matter what happens, your $200 is gone. Consider it paying for a good lesson if you lose the money.

Dave: If I want to build a custom motorcycle in my garage from scratch, how do I get it registered? In all the custom motorcycle magazines I have read, none mention registration. Any help is appreciated. Dave, Temecula.

Dave: The easiest way is to stop by the Department of Motor Vehicles to pick up a pamphlet on registration of a custom built vehicle and follow the steps. You will have a frame and engine number as point of reference for registration. The bike has to have front and rear lights, brakes, and a place for the license plate to be attached. The pamphlet will fill in the rest.

Dave: Do you have to have an outside rear view mirror on the right door of a vehicle? I broke mine off coming out of the garage and it will cost more than $300 to replace it. My dad said I would get a ticket if I don't replace the mirror. Who is correct? I hope it's me! Jeff, Escondido.

Jeff: As long as you have a driver's side outside mirror, you don't need the passenger side mirror. It does help in traffic to have one. You can cut the cost of that mirror by heading down to a wrecking yard, picking one up pretty cheap and installing it yourself. I recommend Ecology wrecking yard. If it doesn't work electrically, you can take it back for a replacement as long as you pick up Ecology's inexpensive warranty.

9-1-2006
Burnt out light has owner seeing double
Dave: My Buick has a burned out headlight. I was going to change the one light but the parts salesman insisted that headlights should be changed in pairs. Is he just trying to sell me another light or is this the right thing to do? Clyde, Murrieta.

Clyde: You can just change the one light that's burned out but first make sure the replacement light is of the same brightness as the one still left in the car. Otherwise, you will have a bright and a dim light for night driving. I recommend changing both lights at the same time as it eliminates having to do the other light at a later date.

Dave: I heard you on the radio the other day doing a real estate show. What is up with that? You didn't seem to know what you were talking about but thanks to your guest, I found the show very informative. Is this a new gig for you? I suggest you stay with automobiles! Ben, Escondido.

Ben: Yes, I'm hosting a real estate show with Jim Holthus from 4 to 5 p.m. Saturdays on KCEO AM 1000. I don't have a clue when it comes to real estate but I met Jim at the Vista Rod Run and we felt the community could use a positive real estate show where folks could call in and ask questions. You're right - thanks to the guest, I even learned something. Have no fear, I'm only going to host the show until Jim gets comfortable hosting it himself. But I'm glad you were listening!

Dave: I'm having nothing but trouble every time I try getting my car smogged. I end up spending a couple of hundred dollars every time the test comes around. How can I stop the madness? Loren, Lecuadia.

Loren: One way is to sell your problem vehicle and buy a new one. New vehicle are exempted for six years. If you can afford to buy a new car or at least lease one every five years, you won't have to deal with the smog folks. And never sell it to a private party - just trade it in!

August 2006
8-25-2006
Can new product save on gas mileage?
Q: Dave: Do you have any information on a product called the Tornado? I read that it allows vehicles to get one to two more miles per gallon of fuel economy and also increases power output. If this product really works, wouldn't automotive manufacturers already use it? The article didn't say what it cost. Would you use it in your vehicle? Bill, San Marcos.

A: Bill: I'm very familiar with the Tornado Fuel Savings device. Designer Jay Kim pitched the idea to me years ago, but I was very skeptical. After installing it on my own vehicle, I noticed a smoother acceleration and even got about two miles per gallon better fuel mileage. Manufacturers have used a system like the Tornado but for only a couple more miles per gallon, it wasn't worth investing more money in the idea. Kim has been working on this product since the early 1990s, but today a couple of miles per gallon may be worth the $65 the unit costs. The best part about his product is that he gives it a 100 percent money back guarantee and it only takes minutes to install. It will not void any factory warranties and will never wear out. The idea is simple: as vehicles never burn all the fuel that runs through their engines, the Tornado breaks up the fuel and air molecules so more fuel is being burned. It's nothing more than making your engine's fuel system more efficient. Go to www.tornadoair.com for more information.

Q: Dave: I just bought a used 1988 Toyota pickup and so far it runs great. But every once in a while when I make a sharp turn going into a driveway, I hear a horrible noise from the front end that sounds like metal to metal. My local mechanic inspected the front end, but couldn't find anything broken or bent. I read your column every week and remember you mentioning that you used to be a Toyota service manager during the '80s, so I thought you might know what that noise is. Ray, Encinitas.

A: Ray: You're correct. I worked as a manager during the time your truck was new and the noise you're hearing has a simple fix. Go to a Toyota dealership parts department and ask for the wheel stop caps, which are made of plastic and are installed at the wheel stop. The downside is they don't last, especially if you do a lot of tight turning. Or you could throw a glob of wheel bearing grease on the wheel stops, keep tight turns to a minimum and when the noise comes back, throw a little more grease on the problem!

8-18-2006
Q: Dave: My 1990 Ford Ranger tows a small camping trailer just fine. I recently went fishing with a couple of buddies and one of them noticed that I down shift the automatic transmission when driving up and down hills. He said it wasn't necessary to manually shift the transmission as it would do it all by itself. He also stated that if I didn't shift it correctly, I could damage the transmission. I've been manually shifting this transmission for years but only when towing my trailer. Am I damaging the transmission? I have it serviced regularly and had no problems. I look forward to your answer. Brad, Escondido.

A: Brad: If it's not broke, don't mess with it. Your shifting seems under control, so keep doing what you're doing. True, the automatic transmission would shift up and down as needed, depending on the foot pressure on the gas pedal, but there are times when the engine reaches its maximum rpm range before the transmission shifts. I wouldn't recommend manually shifting to everyone, but there are cases when you should, such as in the snow or mud. You don't want the transmission to up shift when you're in the slippery stuff or coming down a steep hill with a load. It's better to use the transmission and engine as a brake vs. only the brakes. I wouldn't change your driving habits. Enjoy the drive!

Q: Dave: My dad's buddy told me that when I change engine oil, I should only change the filter every other oil and filter service. I said he was crazy, as the oil filter is designed to capture dirt and if I don't change it every time, I would be adding a pint or so of dirty oil to my fresh clean oil change. He insisted the filter captures the dirt in the oil so it can't get out. Who is right - my dad's buddy or me? Thanks. Larry, Vista.

A: Larry: My recommendation, along with the automobile manufacturer's, is to change the filter with every oil change. While you didn't have to change the filter with every oil and filter service, why take a chance? Filters are dirt cheap compared to an engine.

Q: Dave: Can you mix gasoline grades, such as premium and regular, without hurting the engine? My car calls for premium, but I just can't afford it. So I mix with regular. Hope your answer is positive. Roger, Temecula.

Roger: That is what 89-octane gasoline but 91 and 87 mixed? You have to do what you have to do. I don't expect any major problems, except maybe a dirty fuel injector in the future. But if the manufacterer calls for 91 octane, you should use 91 octane.

8-11-2006
A: Dave: I've been following the news of bio-diesel fuels and would like to know how to make my own, as I understand it is pretty easy. Do you have any information on how to make it? If we all start making our own diesel, I would think the big gas companies would start dropping their prices. We all need to do something to stop this insanity. Jim, Oceanside.

A: Jim: I was on the same page as you until I went to the computer and typed in "bio diesel." One site had a recipe to make bio-diesel and you won't believe what it takes to make a gallon of diesel. The instructions were 18 pages long and the equipment you need is more than I'm willing to invest in. What we need to do is write letters and e-mails to elected officials to tell them enough is enough. We can also change our driving habits by taking fewer trips, getting our car's fuel system serviced for maximum fuel mileage, boycotting the big fuel companies, filling up at half tank and inflating our tires to just five pounds below the maximum tire pressure allowed by the manufacturer (pressure information is found on the tire). You need to be at least five pounds under the maximum tire pressure so the tire can inflate once it is on the road and it gets hot from friction. You're right, we must all get involved if for no one else but our kids!

Q: Dave: I'm in the market for a hybrid vehicle, but which one gets the best mileage? I commute from Temecula to downtown San Diego and the fuel prices are killing me. Dee Dee, Temecula.

A: Dee Dee: Hybrid vehicles are OK when it comes to fuel mileage, but there are a few other vehicles beating the hybrid numbers. For instance, Toyota Yaris, gets 40 miles per gallon and Volkswagen TDI diesel gets 50 miles per gallon, just to name a few. The problem with hybrid vehicles is the cost to repair or replace the battery pack. If you do the research, I'm sure you will find a vehicle that performs as well as a hybrid without having to pay the high cost of a hybrid. I'm driving a Toyota Yaris right now that costs roughly $13,000 and it comes with A/C, a radio and plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Just do your homework and stop listening to the advertising!

Q: Dave: I'm in the market for a new car. Is it true that if I wait until November or December I'll get a better deal? Carl, Del Mar.

A: Carl: Yes, the longer you wait in the production year, the better deal you will get. The downside to this practice is that the choices and options are limited. But if transportation is all you're looking for, wait until Dec. 31 and go shopping!

8-4-2006
Dave: I heard you on the radio the other day talking about coolant that is earth friendly. What did you mean by that statement earth friendly? If it is good for the earth where can you buy it and does it really help keep your engine cooler than the old coolant that I assume is not earth friendly. Bill, Oceanside.

Bill: Regular anti-freeze carries chemicals that are harmful to the environment plus if ingested by animals it will kill them. In fact if you're caught draining your cooling system into the gutter you could end up with a hefty fine from the city. The new coolant on the market will do the same job as the old coolant it is just safer. You still can not drain your radiator into the gutter even if you use the new coolant. You can buy the new coolant at any parts store in the county.

Dave: I'm new to Vista and I came from a city that hosted a lot of car shows (I'm in the Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton) and would like to know if there are any shows in my area. Your e-mail was given to me by a fellow Marine who saw you give a Driven 2 Dare Seminar on base that he said was fantastic, sorry I missed it.   Lance, Vista.

Lance: You're in luck, Vista is holding their 17th Annual Vista Rod Run Sunday the 6th of August at the new downtown area, for directions and more information you can go to www.vistarodrun.com. This event will start with a Poker Run on Saturday the 5th of August at 5 pm at Main and Indiana St. with prizes galore and on Sunday you will see a great car show for the whole family, Vista will be showing off their new downtown revitalization. Hope to see you there, I will be bringing ESPN Radio's RPM Today Show on a live remote with Dave, Bill Bob and Scooby, see ya there!

July 2006
7-28-2006
Van's howl is almost louder than the radio
Dave: I love the Ford van I use for work, even though it has a lot of miles on it. However, the rear end has been howling for quite some time and I haven't had the time or money to take it to the dealer. Who would you recommend taking it to other than the dealer? I'd like to compare prices. I think it's time to address the problem, especially since I have to turn the radio up really loud to drown out the howl! Roger, Del Mar.

Roger: There's nothing worse than a howling rear end and, if left unattended, it could cause you a lot more problems in the future. You're smart to compare repair shops. If I were to choose an independent differential repair shop, I'd go with Pro Gear in Kearny Mesa. Owner Mark Litner has more than 30 years experience. His phone number is (858) 571-1158. Everything is done in-house, from commercial vehicles to racecars and custom hot rods. Tell him I sent you!

Dave: I inherited a 1935 Ford sedan when my grandfather passed away last month. He wanted me to restore the car and keep it in the family, which I plan to do. My son and I are going to do the work but where can we find parts for a Ford this old? I looked on the web and in a few classic car magazines but everyone is either on the East Coast or in the middle of the United States. Is there anyone local that I can talk to face to face? Love your column. Keep up the great work! Brad & Chad, Escondido.

Brad & Chad: You're in luck. C & G Early Ford Parts is in your own backyard at 1941 Commercial St. in Escondido. The phone number is (760) 740-2400. C & G specializes in Ford cars and trucks and the staff is very knowledgeable. Have fun and send me a picture of your Ford when it's done!

Dave: I want to customize my 1999 Honda Civic a little by putting 16-inch tires and wheels on the rear and 14-inch on the front. Will that hurt anything? My dad said to ask you first. Bill, Vista.

Bill: You do know the Honda is a front-wheel drive vehicle and the rear wheels just follow? If you're just doing it for looks, it won't really hurt anything. Just make sure you have clearance from the tire to the body. You may get a little harassed from your friends. I would re-think this idea if I were you.

7-21-2006
Could son's interest in old cars be more than a hobby?

Dave: My son is very interested in learning to restore old cars. He lives in Denver, is getting out of the military and doesn't have a clue about what he wants to do with his life except work on old cars. Do you have any suggestions to guide him? I would like to help him anyway I can, even though I don't feel the old car hobby is the best direction for my son. Flo, Vista.

Flo: Your son is picking a very lucrative career. If he's good with his hands, he could make a lot of money and help keep the old cars on the road. Since he is mustering out of the military, he will have access to money to further his education. McPherson College in Kansas has a four-year program in automotive restoration technology. The address is 1600 E. Euclid, P.O. Box 1402, McPherson, Kansas 67460. The phone number is (800) 365-7402 or check out www.mcpherson.com. Tell your son good luck and that you're behind him 100 percent.

Dave: I read in your last column about warming up a new car then asked a dealer. He said it wasn't necessary, as new cars warm up quick enough. In fact, it's easier on the engine and even the fuel economy if you start up a vehicle and hit the road. Who is right? Darrell, Oceanside.

Darrell: I must admit the dealer is correct. I got a few phone calls and did further research to discover that newer technology allows drivers to start the vehicle and hit the open road with no ill effect. Ford did a study recently between two Fords that went 500 miles covering the same ground doing the same thing, stopping at a fast food restaurant and taking a rest stop. One driver started up and hit the road, went to a fast food restaurant then shut off the motor until it got to the drive-through window. The other car idled until it got its food and at the rest stop. Another car shut off the engine while the other one idled with the A/C on. At the end of the run, the car that idled burned 22 percent more fuel than the other driver. At $3-plus for fuel, that's significant.

7-14-06
Tools make all the difference when servicing your vehicle at home

Dave: I'm trying to save money by learning to change my car's engine oil and filter. I can already change the air filter and half the spark plugs (My car is a V6 and I can't get to the rear plugs). I'd also like to learn to change my cooling system fluid, the automatic transmission oil and the brakes. Can you give me a few tips? Carla, San Marcos.

Carla: To do all these things will take investing in a little equipment. For the oil and filter service, you need good quality car ramps, a good oil filter tool to remove the oil filter, the correct wrench to remove the drain plug and the correct tightening specifications for the filter and drain plug. You can get that information from either the dealer or a good technician. You will also need the correct tools for the cooling system and transmission service. Be careful with the cooling system service, because you can't drain anti-freeze into the drain as it is toxic to animals. Plus, depending on your vehicle, you may need to "burp" the system or end up with an overheating problem. A transmission service is not a recommended do-it-yourself job because a transmission technician knows how to look for possible problems inside the transmission. This service only needs to be done every year and a half and it usually runs $45 to $165, depending on the vehicle. I would never do brakes at home unless you have been properly trained. One mistake and your vehicle could end up with no brakes. If you would like to call me, my number is (760) 715-5507.

Dave: Is Chrysler going to build the Dodge Challenger? What will Ford and Chevrolet do? Roger, Temecula.

Roger: Yes, the Challenger is on the way and I'm sure it will sell like hot cakes. That's sure to make Chevrolet so nervous that a new Camaro will probably hit the streets soon. As far as Ford, the Mustang will hold its own and Pontiac won't play unless it gets to build its own Firebird. If you're a collector, get your checkbook out!

7-7-2006
Twice burned, car owner wants to stop thieves

Dave: What is the cheapest way to keep my car from being stolen? I've been debating if I should buy an alarm system for my old 1989 Toyota pickup. It's been stolen twice, but with no major damage, although I lost some personal items. Would an alarm be the way to go? If I install an alarm, would it lower my insurance premium? Thanks for a great column - I've learned a lot from it. Patty, Escondido.

Patty: I don't have much faith in alarm systems. I use a steering wheel lock bar. It's not 100 percent perfect - if thieves want your truck, they will get it. But the steering wheel lock deters the casual theft or joy rider and that seems to be what you have in your neighborhood. Another locking system that works well is a steering wheel clutch pedal lock, which locks the clutch pedal to the steering wheel. These two are pretty inexpensive. Next on my list is a kill switch, but that can cause headaches in the future as you never know what happens when you start cutting into factory wiring harnesses. As far as saving you money with your insurance company, you will have to call them and see what their position is concerning alarms.

Dave: I just bought a used Mustang that I love, but it has locks on the chrome custom wheels. The seller said the wheel lock is in the trunk, but so far I haven't been able to find it. What's my recourse with the seller? Does he have to supply me with a new lock or am I on my own? If so, how do I get a new wheel lock? How do I get the old locks off in the event of a flat tire? Hope you can help! Leon, Murrieta.

Leon: Unfortunately, you're on your own. The last owner has no legal obligation to supply you with a lock for your wheels, which should have been negotiated during the sale. As far as he knows, you lost it. Your best course is to have the old locks removed (in case someone has the wheel lock) by a tire shop then purchase a wheel lock set. Record the wheel lock manufacturer and the lock number in the event you lose the key. But first, I'd look all over the car before removing locks. Look under the seats, center console and glove box - you never know where a wheel lock can hide. One more tip; if you take your car into a shop for a brake inspection, tire rotation or anything that necessitates removing the wheels, don't forget to get your wheel lock back from the technician before leaving the shop. That's the No. 1 cause of wheel locks disappearing.

June 2006

6-30-06
Oil weight weighs heavily on owner's mind

Dave: I have three vehicles with more than 130,000 miles on them. About 10 years ago, my mechanic convinced me to change from 10-30 to 20-50 weight motor oil. Now that these vehicles are getting up in miles, should I go back to the thinner motor oil or stay with the thicker weight? Thanks, Joe, Vista.

Joe: You should have no problem running 20-50 weight motor oil in San Diego. Our weather doesn't get cold enough to need a thinner weight. Just keep changing the oil and filter every 3,500 miles and you should be good to go!

Dave: I heard you on KCEO AM 1000 Saturday talking about the new bio-diesel that will be on the market in 2007. I have a diesel truck and you said that non bio-diesel trucks will need a fuel additive to keep the lubricity up so as not to damage the engine. Doesn't adding a chemical for lubricity defeat the purpose of why bio-diesel will be on the market? And what is this fuel additive going to cost? Great radio show - lots of great information! Carl, Oceanside.

Carl: I totally agree with you. I have the same questions but rest assured that once I get the answers, they will appear in the "North County Times" and on KCEO AM 1000. Thanks for the kind words concerning my radio show.

Dave: My dad said I should remove the locking gas cap I have on my car and put back the original before getting a smog inspection. He said that locking gas caps won't pass inspection. But I can't find my old cap. Where can I get one and is my Dad right? Lori, Temecula.

Lori: Your dad is giving you good advice (probably from experience). I've seen a few locking gas caps pass the test, but why take a chance? Go to your local dealer or auto parts store for a replacement gas cap and you should be fine.

6-23-2006
Temperature is rising on father-son relationship

Dave: My dad and I have been discussing warming up a car's engine before driving it anywhere. He says I should wait until the temperature gauge comes off cold before leaving the house. But my car has a temperature light. He said I should turn on the radio and listen to at least one song. Is there any truth to what he is telling me or is he just pulling my leg like he does most of the time? The car drives fine when I start it up. There's a bet of yard work on this, so I hope you go my way! Daniel, Del Mar.

Daniel: Well, break out the yard equipment Daniel. You need to warm up an engine before hitting the road because all the fluids are sitting at the bottom of the engine, transmission and differential. These fluids don't start lubricating the rest of the components until it gets circulated. In the old days, the vehicle would just stall out. With the advent of computers, vehicles will leave the curb with no apparent problem but you're doing unnecessary wear to the internally lubricated components. Your dad's advice is right on the money!

Dave: How hard is it to add an auxiliary gas tank to my car? I drive a lot and all I have right now is a 10-gallon gas tank in my car. I was thinking of using an old beer keg because I heard they used them in the '50s for hot rods. Where would I find one and how hard would it be to hook up? Lin, Oceanside.

Lin: I hope you're kidding! A beer keg? Sure, we used them when we were kids when there were no emission laws. I think the installation would be rather unsafe and you would be hard pressed to find someone to do it. Look at it this way - if you had a larger fuel tank, it would cost you even more to fill it up. Stick with the 10 gallon tank and your fuel bill per fill up will only be around $30 to $35.

Dave: I was thinking of getting spinner wheels for my car but I can't seem to find them. Where did they go? Are they not in style anymore? Do they do anything positive to your ride? Sorry about all the questions. Chad, Rancho Bernardo.

Chad: There are never enough questions. Spinner wheels were a fad and seem to be disappearing. But if you look in "DUB Magazine," you can still find them. They don't do anything positive to your ride, they're hard to balance and I've heard stories of them coming apart on the road!

Do you have a question for Dave Stall? Contact him at (760) 715-5507, stalld@cox.net, fax a question to (619) 445-4418 or listen to him on the radio: 1 p.m. Saturday at 1000AM or 1 a.m. Sunday at 800AM.

6-16-2006
Start up problem leaves truck owner in a haze

Dave: What does it mean when a big cloud of black gray smoke comes out of your vehicle's tail pipe and at the same time the car runs rough until you put your foot on the gas, then the smoke goes away and the truck runs fine the rest of the day? My truck is a 1967 Chevy 1/2-ton pickup with a straight six-cylinder engine and three-speed manual transmission. I inherited it from my grandfather when he passed away last month. I just started to drive it after putting in a set of plugs and new air filter as well as changing the engine oil and checking the brakes. I haven't taken it into a shop yet since it seems so simple to work on, even though I'm not very mechanical. If I take it apart, I can put it back together. But troubleshooting is out of my league. Look forward to your answer. Gene, Lake Elsinore.

Gene: Sounds as if your truck's choke is hanging up in the first start-up of the day. Remove the air filter and see if the butterfly moves freely. You may want to lubricate the shaft. You could also take off the choke cover to see the condition of the choke spring. The choke is located on the side of the carburetor. I recommend buying a shop manual for your truck if you're going to work on it. If you find it hard to find parts for that truck, go to www.totallymotorsports.com. This place carries a complete line of manuals that will help you find any part needed for your truck. You can call them at (800) 480-7302.

Dave: I just bought a used car and I have no idea what weight oil I should be using. I have heard 10-30, 20-50, straight 30 weight and one guy said I should use synthetic. The car is a 1999 Toyota Celica GT with an automatic transmission and a four-cylinder engine with 134,554 miles. I drive a lot and really would like to take care of it. Thanks for all your help. Shawn, Escondido.

Shawn: If you don't have any history on this car, the oil requirement should be stamped on the oil cap. If not, 10-30 weight will work just fine. Just make sure you change the oil and filter every 3,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. One thing about a Toyota is that if you take care of it, it will last well over 200,000 miles.

Dave: I'm new to the area and would like to know if San Diego has an automotive museum? I'm in the military and love cars! Reggie, Oceanside.

Reggie: Thanks for what you do for us. Yes, we have a great museum in Balboa Park but I would recommend going to the web and putting in San Diego Auto Museums to get a complete list of all the museums in the county.

6-9-2006
Don't pay for gas you don't get
Dave: I was told that when filling up your vehicle's gas tank and the tank is full, clicking a little more gas in is bad. It even says this on the pumps. What makes it bad? I drive a lot and need as much fuel as I can get so I don't have to stop as much. Love your column! Denise, Lecuadia.

Denise: The problem is fuel spillage. But what's worse is that when clicking the fuel hose more than once, the fuel goes back up the hose and into the gas pumps. So you're paying the gas station to take the excess fuel back. Thanks for your support!

Dave: What is the deal with today's radio antennas? I can't go to the car wash because they won't wash my car unless I remove the antenna. I'm 82 years old, I don't have any wrenches and probably don't have the hand strength to remove it anyway. Could I have a power antenna installed? I'm on a fixed income and just barely make it month to month, but I hate a dirty car! Flo, Vista.

Flo: The fixed antenna is a cost saving measure, but if you stop by a gas station or a repair shop or ask a neighbor to loosen your antenna, it spins off quite easy. I wouldn't recommend a power antenna conversion. They are pretty pricey - not for the parts, but the labor to install them. A lot of times you might even have to buy a radio that's equipped to operate a power antenna or perhaps installing a toggle switch in the dash. Just have the antenna loosened and when you get out of the car wash, reinstall it finger tight. Then have the same person who loosened it tighten it further.

Dave: I just bought a new car from a local dealer, but there were no floor mats. When I asked my salesman why, he said mats were an option and for $135 I could get them from the parts department. He did offer me a 10 percent discount. I was furious. I paid good money for this car and feel it should have had floor mats. What should I do? Bill, Temecula.

Bill: I feel your pain but remember - the dealership does not set up the packages that cars come with. A lot of times, floor mats aren't included on less expensive models. Your only choices are take the 10 percent discount or go to a parts house like NAPA to buy the mats that fit for a substantial savings.

May 2006

5-26-2006
A few readers called me the other day after reading my suggestions to Dave in Temecula. I told Dave to get better fuel mileage he should under inflate his tire five pounds under what the tire manufacturer recommends and that number is found on the side wall. A few of you thought I was giving out bad advice by suggesting lowering the tire pressure five pounds from what the tire manufacturer recommended. What the readers who called missed was the statement about where you get the recommended tire pressure for your tire, I said on the side wall. If the tire manufacturer recommends 40 pounds of air when the tire is cold then I recommend dropping it to 35 pounds of air when the tire is cold. Now look in your owner?s manual or on the driver door jam and you will see the vehicle manufacturer?s tire inflation recommendation is even lower than my recommendation of 35 pounds. The reason I give it a five pound variance is because once on the road and depending on the vehicle load and speed the heat in the tires cause the tires inflation to go up and over inflation can be as dangerous an under inflation. The key is check your tire pressure at least once a month when the tires are cold and don?t forget the spare. Thanks to the guys that called I appreciate comments and for future calls my cell number is 760-715-5507.

Dave: I?m not much of a car person but I have saved up enough money to buy my very first new car and I?m very excited except my Dad and Uncle said to stay away from silver, red and yellow cars because the paint will not last one year! It just so happens my color of choice is silver. So my question to you is what my Dad and Uncle said true? I don?t want them to think I wasn?t listening to them but if I can get a silver car that will last that is what I want. Hope to hear from you soon, Lisa Escondido.

Lisa: Your in luck, the paint on today?s vehicles are of very good quality and the problem your Dad and Uncle were speaking of has been corrected but paint maintenance is still highly recommended. Washing your car with the proper soap, car wash soap not dish soap from the kitchen, using soft cloths or mitts when washing, getting bird droppings and sap off as soon as possible, washing your vehicle in the shade when the vehicle is cold and using a good quality wax and which ever wax you start with stay with and last but not least avoid drive through car washes as much as possible. Happy motoring!

5-19-2006
Gas prices have readers concerned!
Q - Dave: Is a motorcycle a good form of transportation in Escondido? I work and live there. In fact, I only drive 3.4 miles to work, but I need to be at work at 4 a.m. I drove to work the other day with all the car windows down and almost froze to death. But fuel prices are killing me even more. Any suggestions on what size motorcycle and what can I do about the cold weather? Rachelle, Escondido.

A - Rachelle: Handling the weather is no problem. You can buy cold weather gear that keeps you toasty. The question is what type of motorcycle would best suit you. The rule of thumb is to find a bike that fits you. To do that make sure you can touch the ground flat footed and check to see if you can bring it back up on its wheels if it tipped over. These questions can all be answered at a motorcycle training school. There is one in San Diego (go to www.BeginToRide.com or call (858) 874-5888). The staff there does a good job at not only training but also helping you pick the right bike. Another bonus is that once you complete the course, you don't have to take the dreaded DMV motorcycle driving test. Check them out and make sure to wear all your safety gear, including a vest that glows in the dark!

Q - Dave: I know you have been inundated with calls concerning getting better fuel mileage. But what about water injection? My grandfather said it was used a lot in the '50s and '60s. Could this system be adapted to my 2005 Dodge 1/2-ton pickup? Look forward to your answer and I hope it's positive! Dave, Oceanside.

A - Dave: I hate to be the bearer of bad news but due to the sophistication of your Ram truck, there really isn't much that can be done mechanically to relieve your gas pain. A couple of things you can do is include putting a cover on the bed, washing and waxing, keeping your right foot light on the gas pedal and keeping tire pressure five pounds under the maximum recommendation found on the tire side wall.

Q - Dave: Do you see an end to high fuel prices? Will they ever come down again, like the good old days? Just curious. Bill, Vista.

A - Bill: Have you ever seen anything that has caused a price increase to come down? No, I'm afraid the gas companies have us where they want us and will continue to push as far as they can. The only way we might see a reduction in fuel prices is if we can slow consumption down and cause a price war between the fuel companies. But honestly, I don't see us getting together and fighting this problem. We have to drive or, like Sammy Hagar sings, "I can't drive 55"!

5-12-2006
Dave: I was talking with my grandfather the other day and he was showing me pictures of his car, a 1955 Chevy. He had hopped it up but what caught my eye was he had the air cleaner top mounted upside down to expose the air filter element. I asked him why he did that and he said to get more air into the carburetor so he would go faster. My question is this; if I did this to my 2002 Chevy Silverado V8 pickup truck would I get better fuel mileage? I?m not concerned with performance as much as I am fuel mileage. One more thing, Gramps also said I should run with my tailgate down, less wind resistance better fuel mileage, is that good advise? Dan, Temecula.

Dan: Boy its terrible getting old, both pieces of advice your grandfather gave you are incorrect. To start with your pickup does not have a carburetor it has a fuel injection system and the trucks fuel management system is controlled by a computer module and removing the air filter cover would do nothing but collect more dirt and debris, as far as the tailgate down versus up for better fuel mileage, wrong again. Because the small pickup truck industry is under the gun to get better fuel mileage the designers are going into the wind tunnel and designing the grill, hood, windshield and roof so the air flows over the frontal area and over the bed and then swirling behind the tailgate to actually help push the mass down the road, by lowering the tailgate you are causing a vortex in the bed which will actually hamper your fuel mileage. Give it a try, burn one tank of fuel with the tailgate down and one fuel tank with the tailgate up. Since we are on fuel mileage, get your tires inflated five pounds under what the manufacturer recommends as their maximum tire pressure, find this info on the tire sidewall and wash and wax the truck.

Dave: I have always wanted a chopper motorcycle and I?m now in the market to buy one but my problem is which one should I buy? All I see is what are in the motorcycle magazines what I would like to do is find a dealer locally that carries choppers. I notice you don?t do reviews on choppers in fact I don?t know if you even ride them but I thought I would at least try writing you, hope you can help, Steve, San Marcos.

Steve: There are all kinds of chopper shops in town, Moreland?s on the 101 highway, Boars Nest off the 76 highway and San Diego Ironhorse off the 52 in Kearny Mesa just to name a few. Yes I ride choppers and I have put them on KUSI TV regularly, call me on my cell and we can talk, the number is 760-715-5507, keep it to yourself the number is private! Only kidding, look forward to your call.

5-5-2006
Q - Dave: I'm thinking of buying a commute car but I don't want to hassle with the smog laws can you tell me where the cut off date is for cars that don not fall into the smog system? Thanks for all you good information, long time reader. One more thing you need to mention on your Saturday radio show that your automotive section has moved from Friday to Saturday. Joe, Oceanside.

A - Joe: Thanks, I keep forgetting to let the listeners in on the big move at the North County Times, call in this Saturday between 1 and 3 pm if I forget. The number is 760-720-5236. Now back to your question, as of January 1st 2005 the cut off year is 1975, 1976 and newer vehicles will still fall into the smog law program. But you will have to have it smogged when you purchase the vehicle either from a used car lot or a private party so be aware and if whoever you buy it from they are responsible for smogging the vehicle and make sure to get it pre-inspected so you don't get stung with a piece of junk!

Q - Dave: What is the deal with gas prices? How much more are we going to take? A better question, how high will fuel prices rise. I don't see any way the gas companies will ever lower their prices as long as we have to keep driving to keep living. I'm in a low income situation and I can just barely make my bills now any more increases and I'm stranded. I'm desperate, do you have any solutions? Philip, Vista.

A - Philip: I wish I had an answer for you but the gas companies have us just where they want us, not unlike the food industry we need food to survive and we need fuel to survive but with the food industry there is to much competition and that is what keeps food prices in check, but I must say with fuel prices climbing daily the food prices will rise as well. Fuel is what gets are food to the stores and it is a trickle down effect. There seems to be a campaign to stop buying from the "Big Two" gas companies, Exxon and Mobil. Sources feel if we boycott them then they will be forced to lower their prices and the rest will follow suit the only down side to that is the independent owners of those stations will be hurt in the process. My personal feeling is our government needs to step in and correct the problem, I hear nothing coming from them concerning fuel prices and I wouldn't be surprised to see $4 this summer and $5 next year. I feel your pain Philip; my monthly fuel bill just crested $600!

APRIL 2006
4-28-2006
Dave: I just bought a car that has an automatic transmission, this is my first automatic transmission experience and I have a few questions. The first question is which gear should I be in for the best fuel mileage, D1 or D2? Is it normal that the car will start in any gear? I found this out by accident and almost went through my Dad's garage wall. Can I use the transmission to slow down when I head down hills, what I mean is shift from D to L? Last question is how often should I get it serviced? Hope my questions are not to stupid you see I'm only 18 and my Dad made me start driving with as stick shift car and it seemed easier than this automatic, thank you Ben, San Marcos.

Ben: When it comes to the automotive world there are no stupid questions. The first one I would like to address is the starting in all gears issue, NO, this is not normal and you need to get that looked at pronto. It sounds like the transmission you have has an overdrive feature, D2, that would be the best gear to get the best mileage in and yes you can use the transmission to slow down coming down steep hills you just need to be careful not putting it into low gear at to fast a speed and as far as servicing the transmission I recommend at least once a year or when the transmission fluid starts to change color from pink to a darker shade, that is if the fluid in your transmission is pink if it is a different color like brown then you may need to rely on time or odor, if it smells burnt change the fluid.

Dave: Some one told me there is a new product on the market that allows you to check you tire pressure without using one of those darn tire gauges. I have tried using a pencil type tire gauge but I just can't seem to get the hang of it all I do is lose air so I hope you can help me. Fred, Encinitas.

Fred: you're in luck, go over to any of the larger parts houses and ask the clerk for a valve stem cap that is also a tire gauge. There are two types that I'm aware of the one that is visual if your tire pressure is low and another one you have to push the top if the valve stem to get as reading. They are not very expensive. You do need to figure out how to properly check you tire pressure, try using another type of gauge and practice on your spare tire. Remove the spare tire from the trunk and set it up against one of the tires and practice. You can do this art a parts house and try different types of gauges until you find the one that is comfortable for you. You can stop by any tire shop and have them check it for you if all else fails but practice makes perfect!

4-21-06
Now you can remove headlight haze yourself
Automotive Note:

Several readers contacted me about the haze on plastic headlight covers. At one time, there was a company that cleaned them for a fee. Now the industry has stepped up to the plate with numerous do-it-yourself products. Check out any of the large parts houses and your headlight�s haze will soon be gone. Buffing balls that attach to an electric drill will speed up the process. Keep the questions coming!

Dave: I lost the key to my locking gas cap, so my car has been sitting for almost a month. Could you tell me how I can get the cap off without damaging the gas tank filler neck? Richard, Murrieta.

Richard: Call a locksmith to have it professionally removed. There are other ways to remove it without damaging the filler neck but I can�t put them in print. Even though it�s almost impossible to siphon gas out of today�s vehicles, I don�t want to give anyone tips on how to be a gas thief, especially since gas is heading over the $3 per gallon mark.

Dave: Are there any one-day seminars that can give a kid and his parent safety tips on owning a car? I don�t feel I have all the answers my son is asking me and would like professional help. Due to my work schedule, I can�t attend a six-week community college course. Rachel, Escondido.

Rachel: I�m not aware of a regular one-day seminar, but on April 28 I�m teaching a free one-day seminar at Miramar College. Parking is free as well. The seminar is great for drivers of all ages and experience. There will be a question and answer period and I can pretty much guarantee you�ll walk away informed. The seminar starts at 6:30 p.m. in room I-101 A/B. Contact Sandi Trevisan to reserve seats at (858) 536-7876 or (619) 388-7752. Hope to see you!

4-14-2006
Does gap insurance really fill the gap?

Dave: When buying a new pickup last week, a lady in finance tried to sell me something called "gap insurance." I decided not to buy it only because I had never heard of it. Did I do the right thing? It wasn't all that expensive, but I didn't feel I needed it. Look forward to your answer. Marty, San Marcos.

Marty: Don't feel bad - I didn't know what it was either until about a month ago. Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on the vehicle and what the insurance decides is its fair market value if the vehicle is declared a total loss after an accident. For example, if you bought a car for $20,000 and six months later you're in an accident that totals the car and the car is only worth $15,000. But if you still owed around $20,000, your original insurance would pay the $15,000, expecting you to pay the bank or finance company the difference. This insurance stems from folks getting stung by finance and banking institutions. So if you make a very small down payment and are financing the majority of the loan, you may want to reconsider gap insurance.

Dave: What's the big deal with tire companies such as Discount and even Costco using nitrogen instead of good old air to inflate tires? I bought a set from Costco and the guy put green valve stems on the tires to alert me to use nitrogen. Where can I find a gas station that has nitrogen and what will it cost me? Right now most stations are charging 25 to 50 cents just to pump air! Seems like another way to get into my wallet. Don, Temecula.

Don: Believe it or not, it's for your safety. Air contains moisture when it is pumped into your tires and since we do not check the tire's pressure on a regular basis, we end up with under inflated tires. The next thing you know, you have a blow out on the freeway. NASCAR has been using nitrogen for a few years and they found it regulates the tire pressure better. If you get into a situation where you need to add air to your tires that are full of nitrogen, there's no problem adding air. There's no negative side effect and as far as I know I haven't seen any gas stations using nitrogen. But I have my own air compressor at home and believe it or not, I check my tires pressure regularly!

4-7-2006
Crash makes Camaro owner wish for the bumpers of yesteryear

Dave: Will auto manufacturers ever bring back chrome front and rear bumpers? Another car ran into my 2000 Chevrolet Camaro last week and the back is now destroyed. The impact even crumpled the quarter panels and bowed the roof. I walked away with a stiff neck but the insurance company wants to total the car, which really upsets me. I love this car. I saved a long time to buy it and have personalized it to my taste. Now they want to junk it. I feel the car would not have sustained as much damage if I had hefty chrome bumpers. Your answer won't help me now but it may help someone else later. Randy, Temecula.

Randy: Sorry to hear about your loss, but the good thing is you're still here to be upset about it. To be hit in the rear hard enough to crumple the quarter panels and roof must have been some impact. Believe it or not, automotive manufacturers would have loved staying with the chrome bumpers, which are a lot cheaper to make. But the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is more interested in saving lives and came out with the five-mile per hour bumpers. Chrome bumpers, which could not meet the standards, were discontinued. The NHTSA also found that if the body of the vehicle crumbled upon impact, occupants would have fewer injuries. It's all about safety these days and because of that, you're still here in one piece. Look at it this way -there are a lot of Camaros out there, but only one of you!

Dave: I've been looking for local outlets for quality diecast models. Do you have any idea where I could go, either on the internet or in San Diego
County? I have been collecting for around 10 years and just moved to San Diego. I need a new source and any help would be appreciated. Darrell,
Vista.

Darrell: I would go to www.totallymotorsports.com. They have a good selection of diecasts, including NASCAR and NHRA, plus a full line of
clothing. Call (800) 480-7302. I also have more diecasts than I care to admit, but in time it will all be worth a fortune and don't forget to save
the box it came in!

Many readers have been asking me about getting rid of the haze on their vehicle's plastic headlight covers. Check out the local parts store or a
dealership's parts department, as they have products to get rid of the nasty haze.

MARCH 2006

3-24-2006
Car owner wipes out when it comes to replacement wipers

Dave: I have a question about the wipers on my car. When we finally got some rain, I found out the wipers were stuck to the windshield. When I turned them on, they ripped the rubber off on the right side. I went to a parts house to get a replacement since I felt the dealer would be too expensive. But there were too many choices. The parts person showed me refills, complete heads and arms, and heads and refills all in one. The prices were all over the board. I didn't want to look stupid, so I didn't buy anything. In fact, I haven't driven my car since the last rainstorm. What would you suggest? I hope you can answer this question before the next rainstorm. Dave, Escondido.

Dave: Just remember - there is no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to your car. Any of the suggestions from the parts person would have worked. It's best to just replace the rubber insert, although a lot of parts departments will not have them for your car. You might be pleasantly
surprised to find that the dealer is very competitive when it comes to maintenance items. Call your dealer and compare the price for refills. As
far as the wipers sticking to the windshield, you need to lubricate the blades occasionally and pull them away from the glass gently so they won't
rip in the future.

Dave: The brake light on my 1999 Dodge mini van keeps coming on when I'm driving, but not when I'm parked. I had the brakes inspected and the
mechanic said I still had 40 percent left, whatever that meant. But that darn light keeps coming on. Do you have any idea what's going on? By the
way, my mechanic didn't charge me anything for the inspection, so I was happy about that. Dawn, Encinitas.

Dawn: Go pop your van's hood and see where the brake fluid level is. If it's at the minimal or low line, add a little brake fluid and see if that turns
off the light. If it does, then keep an eye on your mileage. Depending on your driving, you may need brakes in the near future. When the technician
told you your car had 40 percent brakes left, he was referring to how much brake lining it has left before it needs new brake pads. In fact, when the pads get to 20 percent, it's recommended you replace them as well as getting a rotor resurfacing, repacking the front wheel bearings and lubing the caliper pins (which is a front brake job). You might go back to the technician and ask him why he didn't fill your brake master cylinder? He may tell you that if he did, you wouldn't have your brakes done in the future. The light can be a guide to tell you the car needs front brakes but if you fill the reservoir and forget about it, the next thing you'll hear is a grind. That's a metal-to-metal sound, which is not only bad, but costly. So ask him when you should come back for brakes.

3-17-2006
Buy diesel trucks now before the price skyrockets

Dave: I've been in the market for a diesel pickup truck to haul my desert toys faster than my buddies can. A truck salesman told me if I didn't buy a
truck this year, I could end up spending somewhere between $2,000 and $5,000 more for an '07 diesel truck, no matter if it's a Ford, Chevy, GMC or Dodge! Is this a gimmick to get me to buy now or was he really telling me the truth? I wasn't going to buy until next year but if you confirm this rumor,
may change my thinking. Ted, Escondido.

Ted: I heard the same rumor and was able to get some literature sent from new diesel truck dealer. I was asked not to mention the dealer's name but the literature confirms that the Environmental Protection Agency has passed a law making all diesel engine builders and suppliers adhere to a new law so these trucks will burn cleaner by using a better filtration technology. I could recite the manufacturer's bulletin but the bottom line is that all
diesel trucks, from pickups to the big rigs, will have to comply. They will only burn Bio-Fuel, which will be available in 2007. Another downside to
these '07 trucks is if you go to Mexico and fill up on the diesel there, you'll have to change the filtration system when you get back. From what I've read, this filtration system isn't cheap. So if you're in the market for a diesel, this may be the time to buy. The upside is that the new diesel trucks will burn cleaner and hopefully get better mileage!

Dave: I've read a lot of car magazines and was wondering what would you put on your daily driver to get better fuel mileage? I figured you're the car guy and you should know. Beth, Temecula.

Beth: Thanks for the compliment. I've tested a lot of products out there and some work a little and some don't work at all - and a few are downright
scary. My recommendation (and what I do) is to burn good quality fuel, keep my tire pressure at five pounds under what the tire manufacturer recommened (found imprinted on the sidewall of the tire), keep the car washed and waxed, use cruise control as much as possible, keep the vehicle serviced according t o the manufacturer and drive as if there's an egg under the gas pedal. Last but not least, lighten the vehicle of any unnecessary items. Use these tips and you'll be pleasantly surprised at the results.

Dave: Just remember - there is no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to your car. Any of the suggestions from the parts person would have worked. It's best to just replace the rubber insert, although a lot of parts departments will not have them for your car. You might be pleasantly
surprised to find that the dealer is very competitive when it comes to maintenance items. Call your dealer and compare the price for refills. As
far as the wipers sticking to the windshield, you need to lubricate the blades occasionally and pull them away from the glass gently so they won't
rip in the future.

Dave: The brake light on my 1999 Dodge mini van keeps coming on when I'm driving, but not when I'm parked. I had the brakes inspected and the
mechanic said I still had 40 percent left, whatever that meant. But that darn light keeps coming on. Do you have any idea what's going on? By the
way, my mechanic didn't charge me anything for the inspection, so I was happy about that. Dawn, Encinitas

Dawn: Go pop your van's hood and see where the brake fluid level is. If it's at the minimal or low line, add a little brake fluid and see if that turns
off the light. If it does, then keep an eye on your mileage. Depending on your driving, you may need brakes in the near future. When the technician
told you your car had 40 percent brakes left, he was referring to how much brake lining it has left before it needs new brake pads. In fact, when the pads get to 20 percent, it's recommended you replace them as well as getting a rotor resurfacing, repacking the front wheel bearings and lubing the caliper pins (which is a front brake job). You might go back to the technician and ask him why he didn't fill your brake master cylinder? He may
tell you that if he did, you wouldn't have your brakes done in the future. The light can be a guide to tell you the car needs front brakes but if you
fill the reservoir and forget about it, the next thing you'll hear is a grind. That's a metal-to-metal sound, which is not only bad, but costly. So
ask him when you should come back for brakes.

3-10-2006
Does warning light mean something serious or not?
Dave: My Ford Probe has a problem that may be serious, but I hope it�s not. When driving it down the freeway, everything is fine then suddenly the low oil light comes on. The first time it did that, I pulled over to check the oil level, which was fine. I started the car up and continued on my journey. The light stayed off for almost a week before coming on again at a stoplight. I�m thinking the light must have a short in it. What kind of money do you think it will cost to repair? Could there be something else causing the light to come on that I�m not aware of? A co-worker said the engine is about to blow up. The car has only 98,767 miles on it, I�m the original owner and it�s had regular maintenance. I read your column regularly and get a lot of good advice. Keep up the good work! Chad, Oceanside.

Chad: Thanks for the kind words. You may have an oil pressure sending unit beginning to fail. This is the device that tells the light when to come on, usually when there�s no more oil pressure in the engine. It is kind of like our own blood pressure, except there is no light to tell us or our doctor when it�s too high or too low. But in both cases, the results can be deadly. If the oil light comes on in your car and stays on, then usually the engine is about to fail. In your case, I would have the sending unit tested and replaced since it seems to be a little erratic. You can have the oil pressure tested as well on the engine by using an external oil pressure gauge. The cost for the sending unit and the oil pressure test shouldn�t be that bad. Check with your technician.

Dave: I heard about a new product � a clear film that�s applied to the front of your car that helps keep rock chips from hurting its� paint. Have you heard of this product and is it available in San Diego? Shelly, Vista.

Shelly: There�s a local company called ClearBra that carries this product, which I�ve seen and found to be exceptional. It comes in different thicknesses and can be applied to any surface you want protected from the elements. What I like about this product is, unlike the old vinyl or leather bra, the paint doesn�t fade once it�s applied. If those old units weren�t installed properly, the car got scratches from the bra dancing on the hood. Go to www.clearbraonline.com or call (888) 3-ClearBra.

Dave: I�m thinking of buying a new Pontiac Solstice but wondered where to put the front license plate? If I put it in the grill, won�t that effect cooling? Larry, Rancho Bernardo.

Larry: Good question. I haven't seen one with a front plate even though I've seen the bracket, which is pretty big. I recommend asking your local dealer, who should know exactly where it should be mounted.

3-3-2006
New car owner concerned about tow

Dave: I just bought an automatic 1993 Chevrolet Camaro with a V6 engine that has been well maintained. I'm 17 years old and this is my first car. I had a problem with it the other night. After visiting some buddies of mine, I tried to back up, but the reverse wouldn't engage. It acted as if it was
still in park, no matter what gear I put it in. My mom got an AAA tow truck to come out but the driver looked at the situation and asked me to sign a
waiver. He said since I was up against the curb, he couldn't get to the back wheels to lift the car. So he would have to drag it up onto the tow truck, which could damage the transmission. I agreed and signed the waiver. He took the car to my mechanic, who found a broken transmission cable. He replaced the cable and did a transmission service, so the car drives fine. Did I do any damage to the transmission by dragging it? Also, the tow truck driver put a soapy solution on my tires and in the path where he was going to drag it up onto the tow truck. I really love this car and my mechanic said the transmission fluid was dirty but there's no metal in the pan. I didn't know what he meant by that, but I guess it was OK. Thanks for all your help; I read your column every week. (My mom makes me!) Gerry, Temecula.

Gerry: By the sounds of things, you did just fine. AAA tow truck drivers are one of the best, so what he did was correct and proper. If there's a problem with your transmission, the technician would have found it during the service. I suggest finding a manual for the car if you don't already have one to get familiar with the car or just call me at (760) 715-5507.

Dave: What does it mean when a light comes on the dash that says "maintenance required?" I just had the oil changed at my neighborhood gas station, so I don't know why the light would come on. Do you think they broke something? I drive a 2005 Honda CRV. Beverly, Escondido.

Beverly: The technicians forgot to reset your required maintenance light. Look in your owner's manual and it will walk you through the process. Or
take it back to the garage and ask them to reset it.

FEBRUARY 2006
2-24-2006
Air conditioning is getting driver hot under the collar

Dave: You're not going to believe this. I'm 48 years old and just bought my first car with air conditioning. Now there's a puddle of water under my car after I've used the air conditioning. I checked the radiator and overflow bottle and there's no loss in coolant. I will not give you my real name
because I'm embarrassed that I don't know what's wrong. If you can help me with this problem I would be deeply appreciative. John Smith, San Diego.

John: Your question is valid. I have more people than you know ask me if they have a leak from the air conditioning. The water you see coming out
from the passenger side of the car is condensation from the A/C. If there's no water coming out, you have a problem because it usually means the drain hose is clogged and soon you will have water puddling inside your car. Since you're new to A/C operations, use the A/C for defrosting the windshield. Control the temperature by using the temperature control knob so you don't freeze in cold weather. And remember to shut off the A/C switch about a milefrom home so you won't have water build up in the condenser box, which over time creates a musty smell coming from the vents. That smell is very difficult to remove once it's set in. Enjoy your A/C and stay cool!

Dave: My commuter car just turned over 100,000 miles. Should I switch to this new engine oil I see advertised for cars that have 70,000-miles plus on the odometer? I love my car and want it to make it to a million miles so I service it religiously every 3,500 miles. Thanks. Jeff, Oceanside.

Jeff: If you keep up the maintenance regimen, your car should end up with the miles you hope for. I know a lot of people who have made it, maybe not up to a million miles but far enough to make servicing cars worthwhile. (My wife is at 345,445 miles on a 1982 Toyota Supra.) Changing the type of oil you use may not hurt anything, but why try something new? Just keep servicing!

2-17-2006
Power window stalls driver's friendship

Dave: The power window on my 1989 Toyota Celica was jumping and making a lot of noise when I tried to raise or lower it. I have a friend who works on cars who took it apart. He told me the plastic gear on the motor was missing a couple of teeth and it needed a new gear. Then he called to tell me Toyota doesn't sell just the gear and I needed to buy the complete power window motor for around $300. He suggested I go to a wrecking yard and remove the passenger side door panel from a Toyota with power windows. If I gave him the gear, he would fix it. I did as he suggested and when I picked up the car from him, the window wouldn't go all the way up or seal. There was a lot of wind noise and I couldn't go through a car wash. I took it back and he adjusted it so it was a little better. The wind noise eventually drove me crazy so I took it to Toyota and the technician found all the bolts loose and the cable that raises and lowers the window was stretched out beyond adjustment, plus the window regulator needed replacement. So I agreed to the repair and now the window works perfect. I paid the other guy $175 to fix my window and another $195 to Toyota to fix it right. Do I have any recourse in getting back my $175? I think I know the answer but I thought I'd ask. Carl, Oceanside.

Carl: The best answer is "buyer beware. " If the person working on your car has no warranty and is not governed by the Better Business Bureau or the Bureau of Automotive Repair, then you're on your own. You could ask him if he feels responsible but chances are he won't be receptive. I'd just chalk this up to another experience you'll share with your kids someday!

Dave: You mentioned a NASCAR Party in the paper a couple of weeks ago at a restaurant in the El Cajon area, but I lost the paper. I would love to take my son. Hope you get this in time to let me know. Larry, Escondido.

Larry: That would be Caf� 67 in Lakeside. It has a private room with all the food and drink you can consume for $45, plus free raffles of NASCAR memorabilia during commercials (provided by Totally Motorsports). The address is 12381 Mapleview, which is at the corner of Highway 67 and Mapleview. For reservations, call (619) 443-4100 soon as only 43 people will be let in. I will be there broadcasting "RPM Today" on ESPN radio from 1 to 3 pm. Hope to see you there!

2-10-2006

Car dies every now and then for no reason
Dave: I replaced the head gasket on my 2000 Dodge minivan a couple of months ago. But every now and then, it dies when I'm driving on the freeway or even on city streets. After I coast over to the curb, it starts back up and runs for maybe a few days until the same problem comes back. My mechanic couldn't find anything wrong because it ran fine while he had it. I just picked it up and it did it twice before I got home. My wife won't drive it because she said it was unsafe (we have five kids). It isn't paid for, so I'm stuck with a rather annoying problem. My conscience won't let me sell it. Do you have any ideas? Any direction you have will be appreciated. Dan, Lecuadia.

Dan: This may seem too easy of a fix but go under the hood to hunt out any electrical connector you can see. Make sure they're all pushed together tightly. When a head gasket is replaced, the whole top of the engine is removed and all electrical connectors are disconnected. With the complexity of the connectors, if they are not "snapped" back together, it may have a symptom resembling your van's. Give it a try and let me know if you hear a "click" when pushing the connectors back together.

Dave: My son tried to be helpful the other day by checking the engine oil level in his mom's car. When he found it to be about a quart low, he added the needed oil but missed the filler hole, spilling most of the oil all over the engine. Now when we start up the engine and it gets warm, it smokes really badly. He cleaned up the mess the best he could but there's oil in all the nooks and crannies. He wanted to spray it down with the garden hose and I said, "No, it is illegal to wash down a dirty motor in your driveway." Is this correct? What would you recommend to correct this mess? Jerry, Vista.

Jerry: You must give your son an "A" for effort. Yes, you could be fined if a neighbor saw you washing down an oily engine in the driveway and turned you in. The best way to clean up the mess is to either have the engine professionally steam cleaned (which I recommend) or take it to a car wash that has a separator and use a product called Gunk. Follow the directions and you should find it a simple task. But remember to follow the directions or you will need a tow truck to take your vehicle to an expert. If some of the electrical components get soaked, you could possibly damage the ignition system and may not be able to start the vehicle.

2-3-2006
New arrival looking for a place to view NASCAR races
Dave: The military just transferred me to San Diego. As a big NASCAR fan, I'm looking for a restaurant that shows NASCAR races. I looked in the yellow pages but there were none. Back home in North Carolina, everyone carries the races. Hope you can help before Daytona! Lance Corporal Hayes, Oceanside.

Lance Corporal Hayes: You're in luck. The only restaurant I know of that's planning to show all the races is in Lakeside, just off highway 67 and Mapleview. Caf� 67 has the Totally Motorsports Lounge, a room dedicated to motor sports. You will need to make an appointment and for a fee, you get all the food you can eat (not mere hot dogs but good, home-cooked food). Plus all drinks are included (no alcohol). During commercials a company called Totally Motorsports will be giving away NASCAR prizes. Give Caf� 67 a call at (619) 443-4100 and I will see you there. Since you're new to town, tune into "RPM Today" every Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. on 800 AM to catch all the motor sports news.

Dave: I just moved here from Michigan and noticed that repair shops I've visited recommend servicing the cooling system every one to two years. I can understand doing that in Michigan, but why in San Diego's milder temperatures? I try to take good care of my vehicles but this service has always puzzled me. What would you recommend? Shaw, Oceanside.

Shaw: Welcome to the best state in the union, and now you know why. The temperature isn't the deciding factor when it comes to servicing a vehicle's cooling system. Without getting too technical, the reason for changing your coolant is coolant breakdown. So it really doesn't matter where you live, you just need to change the coolant every year or every 15,000 miles. What's important is the percentage of coolant to water. In Michigan, I'm sure it is more than 50 percent water to 50 percent coolant, which is what's recommended in San Diego. The important thing is regular service.

JANUARY 2006
1-27-2006
Truck may be ugly, but it's dear to driver's heart

Dave: I'm thinking of putting a new motor in my old truck but can't decide which way to go. Should I rebuild it, buy a crate motor or go to a wrecking yard to buy a junkyard motor? (My wife says the truck is so ugly I should do the latter.) I bought this truck brand new in 1973 and it's the only truck I will ever own. Because I don't want to waste my money, I thought I would ask your advice. Carlos, Escondido.

Carlos: Here are a couple of things you need to consider. If you decide to restore the truck, then you'll want to rebuild the engine to keep all
numbers matching. If this isn't the case, then I'd go to Chevrolet and buy a crate motor from the parts department (great motors, great warranty). If you're thinking of rebuilding the motor, you can do that too. But keep in mind this truck will still have to pass California smog inspection, so build it with that in mind. If it were my truck, I would go with a crate motor from Chevy. Explain to your lovely wife that a motor from a wrecking yard comes with a limited warranty and it may have as many miles on it as the one you have now. Just for fun, when she needs a new appliance tell her, "let's go to the junk yard and see if we can find one that matches our kitchen!"

Dave: My son accidentally put about two gallons of diesel fuel in my truck that is supposed to burn gasoline. Then, like a knucklehead, he drove it home and told me what he did. The good thing is he topped off the tank with gas, but did he do any damage to my truck? Should I drain the tank and refill it with gas? By the way, my fuel tank holds 26 gallons of gas. If you recommend draining the tank, I'm going to make him pay for it! Why is it that gas stations don't separate diesel tanks from gas pumps? I'm sure he's not the only person to have done this. I will admit the truck runs fine with no smoke, but I'm keeping it parked until I hear from you. Harold, Vista

Harold: You're in luck. Two gallons of diesel in 26 gallons of gas won't do any damage, so your son is off the hook. I would use a gas cleaner just as a precaution. He's not the first person who has done this. The reason the tanks aren't separated is the cost - it's cheaper to put the diesel hose in the same box as the gas. Gas stations feel if the nozzle is green, that's enough to tell the difference. Plus, the diesel nozzle is smaller in diameter than a gas nozzle. I would make the diesel nozzle bigger than the gas nozzle so you couldn't put diesel in a gas vehicle even if you tried. But I guess this is too simple!

1-20-2006
Should owner blow off car with blown head gasket?

Dave: I drive a 1987 Toyota MR2, and I know you drive one too. The other night I was coming down I-15 when all of a sudden, a large cloud of smoke came from the rear of my car. I pulled over, called a tow truck and found out the next day I had blown a radiator hose. The mechanic said I had to replace the bad hose before he could tell me if there was any more damage, so I agreed. He just called back to tell me the head gasket was blown and it would cost around $700 to repair. I've already paid a little more than $200 for the tow and the hose replacement. Is it worth repairing the car? I do love the little rascal, but I'm afraid repairing it will push it over its value. What would you recommend as a fellow MR2 owner? Mary-Ann, Encinitas.

Mary-Ann: Sorry to hear about your problems. If you're uncomfortable with the technician's diagnosis, you can check out a few things yourself. First, see if the water has mixed with the engine oil by looking under the oil filler cap and on the dipstick for a chocolate milk-looking substance. If that's present, then the head gasket is blown. If you don't see anything that looks like chocolate milk, check for excessive smoke coming from the tail pipe (this happens even if the oil is mixed with the water). If there's smoke and the car starts running rough, then the head gasket is probably blown. But a car of that age is never worth repairing if the repairs are higher than what you can buy a replacement for. Right now, a good running 1987 MR2 goes for around $1,500. But if money is no object and it's an emotional thing, then it' your call. I like my MR2. It gets 30-plus miles per gallon, is fun to drive and insurance is cheap. I would put another $1,000 into it if needed because I know the car and it fits me like an old shoe. Call me if you have any more questions or if you'd like me to come out to check it for you (no charge).

Dave: The military just transferred me to San Diego. As a big NASCAR fan, I'm looking for a restaurant that shows NASCAR races. I looked in the yellow pages but there were none. Back home in North Carolina, everyone carries the races. Hope you can help before Daytona! Lance Corporal Hayes, Oceanside.

Lance Corporal Hayes: You're in luck. The only restaurant I know of that's planning to show all the races is in Lakeside, just off highway 67 and Mapleview. Caf� 67 has the Totally Motorsports Lounge, a room dedicated to motor sports. You will need to make an appointment and for a fee, you get all the food you can eat (not mere hot dogs but good, home-cooked food). Plus all drinks are included (no alcohol). During commercials a company called Totally Motorsports will be giving away NASCAR prizes. Give Caf� 67 a call at (619) 443-4100 and I will see you there. Since you're new to town, tune into "RPM Today" every Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. on 800 AM to catch all the motor sports news.

1-13-2006
Questions from the San Diego International Auto Show

Dave: I was pleasantly surprised that this year's San Diego International Auto Show had so many custom and concept cars on the floor. I've been going to this auto show for years and it's never been this cool. I would now call it a premier auto show. Why is that all of a sudden? I've been to shows in Detroit and Los Angeles and I'm not saying the San Diego show is up to their level, but it looks as if this is what it's striving for. If this is true, will we see a better show each coming year? I hope so. Happy New Year and keep up the good work. Lance, Del Mar.

Lance: The answer for the improvement in the auto show is simple: "Motor Trend" bought it and filled it with vehicles from SEMA, sources from its magazines and all the hot rod folks who contribute to the magazines. I agree this year's show was the best - and just wait for next year! LA will have its show in November instead of January, so we will get vehicles from that show. Another reason the show has gotten so much better is the expansion of the San Diego Convention Center. The opening of the Sail Room has given the show more room to grow. Next year should be unbelievable, so stay tuned!

Dave: After attending the San Diego Auto Show I wanted to know how many of the concepts we saw will hit the streets in the coming years. I thought every concept car I saw should, as I loved them all! Loria, Vista.

Loria: That depends on the public's acceptance of the concepts. But for sure, parts and pieces of each concept will be on upcoming models. The manufacturers use auto shows to see what we will accept and if the reception is favorable, it hits the showrooms. The best example is the Dodge Viper. Not only did it preview as a concept but it came to the dealerships almost unchanged from the original concept. That started the flood of concepts and there are more to come.

Dave: Why didn't more manufacturers offer ride-and-drives like Ford and Chevrolet? I'd have liked to have driven a Chrysler 300 or the Viper. Do you think they may allow rides in the future? Happy New Year! William, Escondido.

William: I was also surprised that more manufacturers weren't giving rides. The whole reason to put people behind the wheel is to sell the product. I'm sure we will see more manufacturers joining in to the point there will be no room in front of the convention center.

Do you have a question for Dave Stall? Contact him at (760) 715-5507, stalld@cox.net, fax a question to (619) 445-4418 or listen to him on the
radio: 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday..

1-6-2006
Can a fuel pump be moved?
Dave: I can�t believe it cost more than $300 to have the fuel pump on my 2000 Dodge minivan replaced. The mechanic said the majority of the repair was labor, as he had to drain the fuel tank (it was full of gas, and he did give it back with a full tank) then drop the gas tank to replace my fuel pump, which is located in the fuel tank. What idiot decided the best place for the fuel pump is in the gas tank? Why isn�t it mounted on the engine somewhere easy to get to? Can I move the fuel pump to the outside of the gas tank? Do you know anyone that does that type of work? Thanks for all your information. Lance, Oceanside.

Lance: Believe it or not, the safest place to put the fuel pump is inside the gas tank. It used to be mounted in the engine compartment. But in the case of a frontal accident, the fuel pump could possibly break off and pump raw fuel all over a very hot engine. So what better place to put it than inside a very large protective shell called the gas tank? I doubt you�ll find anyone that will do the conversion because of the liability. So just start putting a dollar a day into a piggy bank to get ready for the future fuel pump replacements and remember � you and your family are protected against a car fire.

Dave: I just bought a 2005 Ford Mustang convertible last month that I love, but then I got laid off, so now I can�t afford the payments. I took it back to the LA dealer I bought it from and asked if they could take it back. Would you believe the salesman I bought it from actually laughed at me? So I�m in San Diego with car payments I can�t afford. Do you have any idea how I can unload this car legally? My boyfriend told me to take it to TJ, leave the keys in the car and report it stolen. I don�t feel comfortable doing that. Can you help me? I read your column weekly and have learned a lot. Lori, San Marcos.

Lori: You�re right in not taking it to TJ. If you return it to the dealer, you�ll lose a considerable amount of money on the deal. I would run it in the newspaper, tell the truth and see if someone will just take over the payments. Or you can put the car on consignment at used car lot (the lot owners will sell it for a percentage of the selling price). If you go that direction, call me at (760) 715-5507 and I will hook you up with Used Cars of Escondido. I know the owner and he should be able to help if no one will take over your payments. You can also talk to the folks who hold the car�s title and see if they will work with you. Trust me, they don�t want you to default on this car.