Ford
Some 2008 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner trucks with 3-liter V6s may leak engine oil from the dipstick tube or the front and/or rear crankshaft seal. According to Ford, the problem occurs in extremely cold temperatures (-20 degrees and below), and is due to a frozen PCV system allowing crankcase pressures to increase significantly above normal range. Installing a new electrically-heated PCV kit, part no. 8L8Z-6A666-A, should put an end to the oil leakage issue.
Lexus
The driver of a 2008 IS250 model may come into your store with the Check Engine light on and trouble code P0751 (shift solenoid A performance) logged in PCM memory. If he does, scan the module for other codes. If P2714 or P0894 also pops up, chances are good the shift solenoid code is bogus, reports Lexus. Gremlins in the PCM software are ultimately to blame. Reprogramming the module with updated calibration files is the only surefire fix. Check with a dealer for the application specifics of the flash.
General Motors
Some 1999-2002 Chevy Cavaliers and Pontiac Sunfires with the 2.2-liter engines may produce a droning sound from the engine compartment. According to GM, the noise is most prevalent in high ambient temperatures with the engine idling and the a/c on, and is due to the accessory drive belt resonating in the span between the alternator and a/c compressor. Installing a new-design drive belt with a different rubber formulation, part no. 12575450, should eliminate the noise in short order.
"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].