Q. My brother recently passed away and left me with a 2005 Ford Taurus. I drove it to my house and locked it for the night (my brother never locked the car). I went to start it and it looks like there is a theft system that is preventing me from starting the car. I cannot eliminate the theft light from coming on. The battery and electrical system check out okay. The two keys he left me are one Ford key that looks like a valet key and the other is an ILCO key with a battery, not an original Ford key. I’m wondering if this could be the issue since the car started up when I first picked it up, but it was not locked. Since I locked it I can’t get it started. Would a dealership be able to help me get a correct Ford key if I gave them the VIN number? I have no “fobs” for this car. Can you advise?
A. Generally, you can reset the system by pressing the lock button on the key fob, followed by the unlock button on the fob. Next, put Your key in the vehicle’s ignition and put it in the on position without the engine running. Wait until the anti-theft light turns off then remove the key. Then the car should start the next time you try. If the keys don’t have buttons and since you don’t have any fobs, you could try disconnecting the battery and touching the cables together for about a minute. This will “reboot” the computer and perhaps clear the antitheft system. If this doesn’t work, then the dealer or an automotive locksmith is the next step.
Q. I have a 2016 Ford Fusion 1.5L Eco boost engine. For the 91,000 miles I have owned this car I have done all the service that is required by Ford. My engine light went on, took it to my mechanic, he said the third cylinder was leaking fluid. I did some research, saw that those engines were having problems with antifreeze getting into the engine block. One morning I tried starting my car up, and it just cracked. I saw that there’s a class action against Ford. Do you know anything about this? And if so, what I can do?
A. The 1.5-liter engine in your Ford has had a problem with coolant leaking into the third cylinder. I also researched and at least in the databases that I use I have not seen any technical service bulletins about this issue. At this point, I have not seen any indication that Ford
is taking any responsibility for repairs outside of the warranty. Considering the age of the car, it would make sense to repair it and if there is a call action lawsuit in most cases there is the ability to be reimbursed for past repairs.
Q. My 2007 Newmar class A motorhome is like new, but the driver’s side window is foggy inside the double-pane window. What is the easiest and inexpensive way to fix this issue?
A. There are no easy or inexpensive methods to fix this problem. Just like multi-pane home windows they fog due to the seals failing. You have only a couple of choices take out the windows and reseal them or replace them with laminated safety glass. This is similar to windshield glass and would offer a permanent solution, although you may notice a bit more noise. That said, luxury cars use laminated side windows to reduce road noise. With home windows I have seen some window companies offering a defogging service for windows with
failed seals. Defogging involves drilling a small hole, injecting a chemical between the panes to dry up the condensation, and then attaching a vacuum pump to remove as much air and moisture as possible, then sealing the hole.
Q. I’m having trouble keeping my battery charged in a 1998 Ford Crown Victoria. I have changed the alternator and it still has a problem if I don’t drive it every few days. I have had the battery checked and it is only a year old. Do you have any ideas as to what might be the
problem? The car is getting ready to turn over to 60,000 miles and is a cream puff but getting a little concerned about being able to depend on the car when I need it.
A. Certainly, there is some sort of parasitic drain on the battery. It could be from a trunk or other light staying on to a faulty alternator. You will need to bring it to a shop and have them check the battery, alternator and for a parasitic draw. The test doesn’t take long but the cause of the problem can be time-consuming.
Q. I just moved to Wyoming where my 2015 Chevrolet Sonic won’t do me much good in the winter. I’m looking for a used 4×4 or all-wheel drive. I keep finding listings for trucks with 250,000-300,000 miles. How long would I expect these trucks to last? Is it worth the risk?
A. Most engines and transmissions are good for 180-200,000 miles with minimal care. Once the mileage gets higher, then, it really depends on how the truck was looked after. In Wyoming, Texas and other places where everything is a day’s drive away, we see these high mileage vehicles but 300,000 is still a lot of miles on a vehicle. In my opinion, unless you know the truck, you would be taking a chance. In the meantime, buy four winter tires for your Sonic.
John Paul is an automotive consumer advocate with AAA. Questions can be sent to him via email at https://ift.tt/3h6XKVZ.
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Car Doctor Q and A: Keyed into reason why vehicle won’t start - The Daily Freeman
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