Q. I have a 2016 Lincoln Navigator and the other morning I took a short ride with the radio on and the navigation system displaying the map. I stopped for breakfast. About an hour later I started the car and there was no display, only a blank screen. I banged on it which did nothing and oddly the next day all was fine. It did this once before, any ideas?
A. At nearly 10 years old as robust as these electronic components are, temperature changes, electrical issues and vibrations can take their toll on them. Although there have been some software updates, typically the entire unit needs replacement. There are companies that can sometimes repair these displays and associated modules which can help with the cost.
Q. I have a Ford pickup truck I have yet to find a comprehensive tutorial on how to change the battery without losing the settings. Can you provide details? If a memory saver in required, which one?
A. At AAA when we change battery, we use our jump start boxes (not the small lithium one, which pulse and will not hold a steady voltage) as memory saver. We attach the leads to the battery cables (once removed wrap the positive lead to insulate it so it will not arc to ground). Take out the old battery, clean the tray and hold-down install the new battery, attach the cables disconnect the jump pack and all the setting remain. Ford actually just states to record all the radio presets. Here is what the Ford repair manual states. When the battery is disconnected and connected, some abnormal drive symptoms may occur while the vehicle relearns its adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven to allow the PCM to relearn the adaptive strategy values. Once the battery is installed reset the clock and customer radio settings.
A dilapidated CT historic house is now called a future ‘dream home.’ Why it’s years in the making.
Q. What are your thoughts on anti-freeze? While shopping I found universal, GM specific, Ford specific, European, and Asian coolants. Need I stick to the factory coolant, or can I add the universal stuff? I am just topping off, not doing a full change.
A. In my opinion there is not a true “universal” coolant that is safe for every single vehicle. There are all make and model, universal coolants but if the engine has as an example a five-year coolant the universal coolant may reduce the life of the coolant to the lowest replacement cycle. If you are doing a complete coolant replacement I would use the original coolant. You may even find that the factory coolant has been upgraded to a new formula that is backwards compatible and offers longer life. If you are just topping off look for regional/multiple manufacturer specific universal coolant. As an example, I have different coolant, for both European and domestic vehicles, for topping off the family cars. Also, if you are topping off coolant on a regular basis, it is time to look for a leak.
Q. I have a chance to buy a 1973 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow. It is a beautiful car, looks well taken care of and rides beautifully. The price is only $20,000 and it will not be my primary transportation. My daily car is a Toyota Camry. What do you think?
A. These cars are expensive to own due to their complex systems and what can be hours of labor for seemingly some simple repairs. Some of these cars are prone to rust, and the hydraulic suspension and braking system can be very expensive to repair or replace. Parts are still available but can be challenging to find and usually sell at a premium. If you are prepared to spend what can be a small fortune and you can find a shop to do the repairs, it can be a delight to own.
Q. I went back to my parent’s house because they are downsizing and selling the house I grew up in. Out in the garage was my 1975 Honda CB 550 motorcycle. I forgot it was even there. It has been sitting for at least 30 years. What are the chances I can get it running again?
A. The first thing to see is if the engine is stuck. I would start by removing the spark plugs and filling the cylinders with Marvel Mystery oil and letting it sit for a few days. If you can get the engine to turn over, at least you have something to work with. The next step is to remove and clean the gas tank and clean or rebuild the carburetors. If you have ignition and clean fuel it may start and run. But this is only the beginning of the project, you need to look at brakes, suspension, electrical and various cables. If it is beyond repair, maybe save piece of the bike, the gas tank or side covers as a memento of a younger time in your life.
Q. I have been reading your columns for years and listening to you on the radio since you were on the Talk America radio network, maybe 25 or 30 years. So, you are no kid, and neither am I. My question is, do you still work on your own cars?
A. Yes, when I can. Over the years I have given away many of my tools and also now do not have access to a garage. But there are some things that I will still repair. If the weather is cooperative, I have a good set of ramps and a jack and safety stands. So, I can do as an example maintenance and brake work but not everything. We have an older VW Beetle, and the check engine light came on. After a scan of the computer and a few tests, the issue was the cooling fan was failing. The repair requires removing the front clip (bumper cover and both front fenders), something I was not going to attempt at home. In this case I purchased the best aftermarket fan unit I could find (VW parts were nearly $1500 and the aftermarket was $550) and had an AAA Approved garage install the fan for me. The money was well spent.
Do you have a car question? Email the Car Doctor for a personal reply. jpaul@aaanortheast.com
