- Is it too risky to buy my dream 1970 Camaro at an online auction?
- Diagnosing Trouble Code PO300 on a 2017 Chevy Cruze.
- The tried and true method of finding the source of an antifreeze leak.
Q: I drive a 2016 Mazda CX-5. I did not register for SXM satellite or Pandora, and I get a “no signal” message on the radio. I have only listened to HD FM radio. I refuse to pay the $230 dealer charges for diagnostic services. So if there is a designated auto shop that can fix the problem that won’t drain my pocket I would appreciate it. For you, the radio does not have an on and off option. You can just mute it.
To: If the radio is the stock radio, the volume button is also the power button. Press to turn on and off.
From this point, press the audio button and on the screen you should see a selection of AM/FM, FM HD, SXM and other input sources. If that doesn’t work, try restarting the radio. Reset your radio by pressing the music, navigation and volume buttons at the same time. Press all three buttons simultaneously for at least 20 seconds. The system should then reboot automatically.
Have I been scammed when changing the brake caliper?
Q: I recently took my 20 year old car to a repair shop for brake work. The owner told me it would need new brake calipers. The reason was because the caliper bolt was rusted and frozen and broke when they tried to remove it. I had them replace both clamps. When I got home, I told my son about it, and he said the mechanic should have drilled out the bolt and not replaced the caliper. Have I been scammed?
To: This is really a matter of economics. Yes, the mechanic could have drilled the bolt, but it’s a hardened steel bolt and it would have taken a lot of time and maybe more than one drill bit, which you would eventually pay for in labor costs. Replacing the caliper is faster, and having new calipers on your 20-year-old car will provide better, safer braking.
Is it too risky to buy my dream 1970 Camaro at an online auction?
Q: Would you buy a 1970 Chevy Camaro at an online auction? This was the car I dreamed of in high school. Now I have the means to buy one. I’ve seen these cars on auction sites, and the problem is that they all look nice, but they’re 53 years old, so I’m worried.
To: Before spending my money on a dream car, I would have a friend help me who has no emotional attachment to the car.
All the sites have dozens of pictures of the car, which I would put on the biggest computer screen so you can find and search past repairs.
If there is a video, how does the engine sound? Do some pricing research to determine a realistic price and don’t let your feelings about the car override your price. Remember, too, that there may be a buyer’s premium, and you will have to transport this car, which would also increase the price.
Diagnosing Code PO300 on a 2017 Chevy Cruze
Q: I have a 2017 Chevy Cruze that runs great but has a code and check engine light. The code is for a PO300 failure. I checked for vacuum leaks and replaced the spark plugs and ignition coil. What could be the problem?
To: I have seen some problems with carbon build up on the valves, which can cause this code. The engine will run fine, but the crankshaft position sensor, which is quite sensitive, will detect a very slight failure. Maybe try a good combustion chamber cleaner.
The second problem, and a bit of a strange one, is that if one of the engine accessories is not tight (such as the alternator mount), this vibration can sometimes cause the PO300 code to appear.
How to find the source of an antifreeze leak
Q: I have a 2013 Lexus RX 350 which is a great vehicle but occasionally I see what looks like antifreeze under the car. When I had to change the oil, I asked them to check it. They said they found nothing wrong. Is there anything common that just misses the oil change site?
To: The best method for looking for a leak is the way we’ve been doing it for decades. Fill the radiator, apply pressure and see if the pressure gauge on the tester holds pressure. If the pressure drops, carefully inspect the entire cooling system. This would include the radiator, water pump hoses and the engine itself.
On a 10 year old Lexus I would focus on the water pump and hoses. If it’s the water pump, expect to spend $800-$1,000 for the part, supplies/hoses, and labor.
John Paul is AAA’s Northeast Car Doctor. He has more than 40 years of experience in the automotive industry and is a Master Technician certified by ASE. Write to John Paul, The Car Doctor, at 110 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904. Or email jpaul@aaanortheast.com and put “Car Doctor” in the subject field. Follow him on Twitter @johnfpaul or on Facebook.
