transmission down
I have a 1995 Ford Ranger and after my truck sits for a while and cools down, the transmission will not immediately go into gear (reverse is usually okay, but not drive). Is it just low transmission fluid or could it be something internal? It seems to do okay after the engine has warmed up a bit.
David
David,
First, check the transmission fluid level. If you look at the passenger's side of the engine compartment at the rear of the engine, you will see the dipstick for checking the fluid level. You will want to check the transmission fluid with the engine running, and with the transmission in "Park."
If the fluid level is okay, I suspect you have internal transmission problems. Unfortunately, there are not many repairs that can be performed on the transmission without the proper equipment and knowledge. You might want to contact your local transmission repair shop, and have them test-drive the vehicle. Since the problem occurs after the truck has been sitting for awhile, you may want to leave the vehicle overnight so they can perform the test drive when the problem is most likely to occur. If the problem would require the transmission to be repaired, the transmission shop should provide you with a repair quote and the warranty terms of the service.
Bruce
Automotive Expert
don't pay much for a clutch
I drive a 1991 Honda Accord and the clutch needs to be replaced. I've never had to replace a clutch before and I don't know enough to keep from getting ripped off. I trust my mechanic somewhat, but I'd still like an estimate from someone who stands to gain nothing.Since the car probably only has a few years left on it, can I use parts from a junked car? If so, how can I tell the difference?
Brian
Brian,
No, you would not want to replace the clutch assembly with used components. The best advice I can give you would be to get a couple of price quotes and compare them to the price quoted by your mechanic.
The clutch assembly is made up of several components, and you may want to receive the cost of the repair, planning for the worst-case scenario. Until the clutch is accessed, it will be hard to determine which parts will actually be required, and this will affect the cost. Also, the difference in the shop labor rate, along with the brand of the parts used, will vary the cost.
When receiving price quotes, always ask about the warranty details should a problem arise with the repair.
Bruce
Automotive Expert
Can you switch your car battery yourself?
switching double a's
Can I replace the battery of my 1994 Lincoln Town Car myself, or will the computer need to be reset by an expert?Mike
Hi Mike,
Yes, you can replace the battery yourself. There is a "Computer Relearn" and "Transmission Relearn" procedure for your car. But before you begin, remember to remove the negative battery cable first when removing the battery, and install the negative battery last, when installing the battery.
Also, never smoke or have an open flame near or around the battery. Lastly, always cover the area where the battery is to be removed, so that battery acid does not come into contact with the painted or plated surfaces.
Here is the relearn procedures for both:
Vehicle Drivability Relearn Procedure
With the vehicle at operating temperature, place the automatic transmission in "Park." Start the engine and allow it to remain idle for one minute.
Drive the vehicle for 10 miles or more to allow the Processor (engine computer) to relearn the values for optimum performance.
AOD-E Transmission Shift Relearn Procedure
With the transmission gear selector in "Overdrive," moderately accelerate the vehicle to 50mph for a minimum of 15 seconds. The transmission should be in 4th gear (Overdrive).
While holding the speed steady, lightly apply and release the brake for about 5 seconds. Stop and park the vehicle for at least 20 seconds with gear selector in "Drive." Repeat the procedure 5 times.
Mike, you will also need to reset your clock and your radio stations, etc. Your owner's manual will show you the procedure to perform these resets.
Bruce
Automotive Expert
curbing the way
Alright, I don't actually have a problem with my car... I'm interested in buying one. It's a 1991 Pontiac Firebird. The situation is that it has 89,000 miles on it and a 1-year warranty. In your opinion, how much longer do you think I could expect the car to stay in good condition, especially since they seem confident enough to include a 1-year warranty?Andrew
Hey Andrew,
You may have a real find here! It is hard to find a used vehicle, especially one that is over 10 years old and includes a warranty. With 89,000 miles on the vehicle, this is low, low mileage. This would figure out to a little over 8,000 miles a year, which is way below the average 12,000-15,000 miles normally driven.
As far as how long the vehicle will last, that is always a tough question to answer. Regarding the warranty, you might want to check and see what's covered. Even if the warranty covers only the major items, such as the engine and drivetrain, this will be excellent, as any other repair(s) should not be major.
Also, make sure you receive the warranty in writing, with the items covered clearly listed.
Lastly, have your personal mechanic inspect the vehicle. If you do not have a personal mechanic, ask your friends and family who they would recommend. If everything checks out okay, you'd better hurry, as the "good deals" do not seem to last too long. If you are relatively sure you want the car, you may want to leave a small cash deposit on the sale, so you do not run the risk of the vehicle being sold. Best of luck to you, Andrew.
Bruce
Automotive Expert
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