Dear Tom,
I own a ’99 Dodge Grand Caravan. The digital dash cluster shuts off intermittently. If I tap the face it will turn back on. Is there a chance it could be a loose connector on the back that I can tighten? Do you know if this is a common problem on older vans? It has 178,000 miles and I hope to get more miles out of it.
Gary from Lewiston, NY
Gary,
The circuits that feed or operate the cluster will need to be tested. Sometimes there is a bad power or ground connection at the plug, or a faulty circuit board. If these connections and circuits test OK, then the problem is in the printed circuit of the cluster. This will require either replacement or repair of the cluster. There is a company online called www.mrwhizard.com. This company specializes in repairing digital instrument clusters. You simply send them your old cluster and they either repair it or sent you a newly rebuilt one. It’s a great service and much less cost than a new cluster. Good luck!
Tom
Dear Tom,
I own a 2001 Chevy Impala, and every so often the brakes make a fast clicking sound like the ABS is kicking in, then all of a sudden the ABS light comes on and it stops making the sound until the next time. Recently, the ABS light comes on more frequently. Any ideas?
Dustin from Dallas, TX
Dustin,
I checked my ALLDATA database and there’s a TSB regarding this condition. Apparently there’s a software update from GM. Take it to your dealer for this update; it should solve your problem. In addition, I suggest having the ABS computer scanned for codes, and check the wheel speed sensors, electrical plugs and wiring harness for cracked or broken insulation. All these faults could cause these symptoms. The TSB number from GM is Bulletin #09-05-25-001.
Tom
Dear Tom,
I own a ’98 Chevy Lumina with a V6 engine. There is a tapping noise when the engine is running. My tech said that it is a lifter problem and the engine should be replaced. Is there anything I can do that would be less expensive?
Ellie from Burtonsville, NC
Ellie,
First, run an oil pressure test with a mechanical gauge and verify that the oil pressure is really low. If the oil pressure is up to specs, then identify which valve tappet is making noise and open up the valve cover/s to have a look at the valvetrain. This process will allow the tech to get a better grip on what's happening with the valvetrain and what it will cost to fix. I wish you success.
Tom
Tom Torbjornsen is an automotive expert of 37 years. An automotive journalist in good standing with the IMPA (International Motor Press Association) and MPG (Motor Press Guild), Torbjornsen is the Repair and Maintenance Editor for AOL Autos, At Home Portals and many other websites. Hear his radio show. America’s Car Show, on the SSI Radio Network Saturdays at 8 a.m. Listen to the show on the live stream during regular show times at www.americascarshow.com. Send your car questions to his website at www.americascarshow.com. You can also find Tom’s book, “How To Make Your Car Last Forever,” in local Barnes & Nobel booksellers, or order online at Amazon.com.
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