Honda
Some 2006-11 Civic models may turn on the Check Engine light and store trouble code P2422 in the PCM. One likely cause for the EVAP system code, says Honda, is a spider web or insect nest blocking off the EVAP canister vent tube. Installing an improved, insect-resistant vent tube (Part No. 17744-SNA-A10, 2006 models; Part No. 17744-SNA-A01, 2007-11 models) should eliminate further trouble.
Start the fix by putting the vehicle on a lift. Now locate the EVAP canister just in front of the gas tank and remove the canister's cover. Using the illustration above to guide you, open the vent tube retaining clips, then disconnect the vent tube from both the EVAP canister and vehicle body.
Continue the job by removing the front bolt from the left fuel tank support strap bolt, then loosen the rear bolt and position the strap aside. Remove the clogged vent tube and install the upgraded tube in its place. Rotate the fuel tank support strap back into position, reinstall the front bolt, then tighten both bolts. Connect the new vent tube to the EVAP canister and vehicle body and secure the tube with the retaining clips, as shown. To complete the fix, reinstall the EVAP canister cover, lower the vehicle, clear the trouble code and run an EVAP system functional test with a scan tool.
Acura
Some 2006 MDX trucks may produce a pop or clunk from the front suspension while in turns. According to Acura, the noise only affects vehicles built between VINs 2HNYD1…6H516731 and 2HNYD1…6H538287, and is most likely due to the loose steering gear retaining bolts. Installing two updated bolts, part No. 90161-SJC-A00, at the pinion shaft area should help prevent a reoccurrence of the problem. After installing the new bolts, torque them to the revised spec of 43 ft-lbs.
Toyota
Owners of 2009-10 Corolla and Matrix models with 2ZR-FE engines may come into your store with a complaint of a coolant leak from underneath the front of the engine. According to Toyota, the leak may be accompanied by a screeching or rubbing sound, and is most likely due to a manufacturing defect in the OE water pump. Installing an improved, upgraded pump, part No. 16100-39466, should eliminate the condition 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]