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598-9060
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Ask Bobby
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221-0317
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Bobby answers questions received from our readers
My car shakes when I apply the brakes. Does this mean I need new rotors?
Not necessarily, you may be able to turn them, also your abs system can cause a
pulsation as well as worn suspension parts. The best thing to do is to have it
checked to confirm that its the brakes causing your vibration when braking.
It used to be recommended to change your oil every 5000 miles. Then it was
every 3000 miles. Which statistic should we use?
It is recommended by the industry to change your oil every 3 months or 3000
miles which ever comes first. The purpose for changing your oil every 3000
miles is to get the contaminants out of your engine, and get fresh filtration.
How can I tell if I need a front end alignment?
You really don't have a way, you should have your alignment checked annually.
Signs of needed alignments are pulling, unusual tire wear, and vibration, which
all these symptoms can be caused by tires, worn suspension parts, etc.
My check engine light is on. It still runs great, am I at risk of damaging my
vehicle (50,000 miles)?
When ever your engine or any other warning lights come on you should always
have it checked as soon as possible, but normally no it won't hurt driving the
vehicle. However, understand your vehicle is not making proper fuel trim
adjustments because the vehicle is in a fixed frame memory block so in english
fuel economy, and performance are sacrificed. At $3 a gallon....I don't think
its a good idea to ride around like that!
Do the brand of spark plugs used in a vehicle really make a difference?
Absolutely!! Understand that all plugs are made for specific manufactures
ignition specs. This means the resistor in an a/c delco plug is designed to be
used with a GM ignition system, like autolite ford, champion for chrysler, NGK
for asian, etc. Always use what the manufacturer recommends basically use what
came in your vehicle from the factory. Which you can purchase your O.E. plugs
from after market suppliers. Just make sure they are the same brand, and
quality.
My engine is making a screeching / wining noise when I accelerate from a stop.
It goes away after a few seconds. What could it be?
Well it could be something as simple as a belt squealing. Noises are hard to
describe as well as sometimes hard to find. If it is very pronounced it is
usually easy to find. This is a common question I get calls about. The best
thing to do is stop by most any shop and they should be able to give you some
idea of what you are hearing.
What makes my car backfire some mornings?
If it only does it when cold then you may be experiencing a lean misfire. This
means it may not be supplying enough fuel when the vehicle is cold. Moisture in
the air can effect your ignition system so in the a.m. until your ignition gets
hot enough to evaporate all the moisture it has soaked up all night can cause
worn ignition components can misfire.
Do you have a question you would like Bobby to answer? If so, email
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your question here, you will also win a free oil change!
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