Dear Tom,
I own a ’95 Ford F-150 with 282,000 miles and it runs well. However, the front and rear engine seals leak oil. If I replace them, will I cause additional problems?
Craig from Chicago, IL
Craig,
Seal replacement could stop the leaks. However, if the crank journals are worn then the leak will continue. With this kind of mileage, I think you're looking at a power plant replacement. Have the crank journals, and rod and main bearings inspected along with the oil pump before proceeding with seal replacement (which would require removing the engine). It may be wise at this stage to replace the engine with a rebuilt unit. I recommend the Jasper replacement engines because they come with the best warranties and are high quality remanufactured units.
Tom
Dear Tom,
I own a 2005 Toyota 2.4L. Is there a magic 75,000-mile event that requires the expensive replacement of timing belts and chains or the engine will self-destruct? I hear stories to this effect, and my Toyota dealer hedged the question. Help!
Monica from Peoria, IL
Monica,
Your car has a timing chain, therefore there’s no timing belt to worry about. The chain should last the life of the engine. Earlier Camry’s (’01 and ’02) with the 2.2 liter engine had a timing belt. However, in 2002 Toyota did away with the 2.2 and started using a 2.4 liter engine that uses a timing chain, which does not require regular change intervals, as does the engine with the timing belt. Tell whoever is scaring you with these old wive’s tales that he/she knows not of what they speak and to stifle themselves!
Tom
Dear Tom,
I own a 2009 Cadillac DHS and in between oil changes I have to add two to three quarts of oil because of the size of my engine. I purchased a case of 30W motor oil on sale at a local department store. When I got home I noticed that the oil had an expired expiration date. Is the oil still good? I kept my receipt; I don’t want to harm the engine just to save $15.
Angelita from Lubbock, TX
Angelita,
I checked my ALLDATA database and the manufacturer states that 5W30 synthetic motor oil is required for that car, so return the case of cheap straight 30-weight oil. If you use straight 30-weight you are asking for engine trouble. However, the thing that concerns me most is the fact that you have to add two to three quarts of oil between changes. This is too much oil consumption. Given the year and model of your vehicle, you may still be within factory warranty. I would call your local dealer and give them your car’s VIN and mileage to see if you are still under warranty coverage. Best to you.
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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