Rattle And Jerk -- Cv Joint Problem May Cause Obnoxious Steering Wheel
Q. Why does steering wheel on '90 Honda rattle and jerk? -W.R.P. Sanford, Fla.
A. The reader writes that the steering wheel on his 1990 Honda rattles so badly that it's impossible to talk and drive at the same time. The rattling stops when the wheel is turned. The dealer won't help. Take the car to another Honda dealer or call the Honda distributor, (213) 783-2000. Unless you have logged unusually high mileage, it still should be under warranty. It sounds as if you could have a CV joint problem. Perhaps a mast jacket bearing at the top is loose or missing.
Q. What causes my brake pedal to fade slowly using light pressure when my car is stopped? - C.R.C. Sanford, Fla.
A. If fluid loss accompanies pedal fade, you have a leak. If the fluid level does not lower, replace or overhaul the master cylinder. It is probably faulty and bypassing fluid internally.
Q. My 1991 Mitsubishi has a dreadful rotten egg smell. The dealer claims that is normal. Is that true? -Mary R., San Francisco
A. There are several possible causes for the smell: over-rich mixture, wrong timing or failed catalytic converter. The California Air Resources Board may be able to help you. In some new cars, that smell diminishes after break-in. It is probably coming from the catalytic converter. Try a different brand of gas before filing a complaint.
Q. Are the claimed benefits of synthetic oil worth the added cost? - R.N. Clemon, Fairborn, Ohio
A. If better mileage, longer engine life and fewer oil changes are considered, it really costs less using the synthetic you named over all crudes.
Q. Why does my 1990 Jeep Wrangler fail to run in freezing weather? I've had a new fuel pump, new filter and the carburetor replaced, all to no avail. What now? -Robert B. Bangor, Maine
A. I think your problem may be caused by ice in the fuel line. This winter buy a few cans of dry gas treatment. It should last all winter. You also may try another fuel vendor. Keep the tank full as often as possible to prevent condensation.
Write to Bill Gordon c/o Car Clinic, Seattle Times Business News Dept., P.O. Box 70, Seattle, WA 98111