General Motors
Drivers of 2004-07 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx models may complain that a gas pump nozzle continually clicks when trying to fill the fuel tank. They may also tell you that the Check Engine light comes on when the fueling troubles occur. Checking with a scan tool, you might find trouble code P0446 stored in the PCM. According to GM, all these issues are likely caused by the EVAP canister vent valve solenoid being blocked off by insect nests, dirt or other debris. Cleaning the solenoid and air chamber and installing a fine screen over the fresh air inlet tube should eliminate the trouble.
Start the repair by removing the EVAP canister vent solenoid. Next, pry up on the lock tab, rotate the solenoid clockwise and pull it out of the air chamber. Inspect both the air chamber and solenoid and remove any debris using a soft, flexible brush. Now go to a local hardware store and buy a piece of fiberglass screening material. Cut the screen to a four-by-four dimension, then center it over the inlet tube opening and fold it towards the air chamber. Using a plastic tie, secure the screen to the tube. Reattach the solenoid to the air chamber by rotating it counterclockwise until the lock tab latches. To complete the fix, reinstall the canister vent solenoid and erase the trouble code.
Chrysler
Some 2005 Jeep Liberty and Cherokee models with diesel engines may produce higher-than-normal temperature gauge readings. Chrysler reports that the condition usually occurs in hot ambient temperatures, or while driving uphill or towing a trailer, and that the temperature gauge will usually reach the ¾ mark, but the engine won't overheat. One likely cause is that the temperature gauge misinterprets the signals from the coolant temperature switch. Reprogramming the instrument cluster control module with updated software should eliminate the condition. Check with a Jeep dealer for the specifics of the flash.
Honda
Owners of 2007-08 Fit models may come into your store complaining about some strange electrical problems. Among the comments you might hear are that the air conditioning and/or rear window defogger switch won't stay on or turn off; the LED for either switch won't illuminate when depressed; or Fuse 22 in the fuse/relay box continually blows.
Honda attributes the electrical troubles to an intermittent short in the air conditioning/rear defogger combination switch. Installing a redesigned switch, part No. 35500-SLN-305ZA, should put the issues to rest.
"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].