General Motors
GM reports that some 2004-06 Saturn ION Redline models with 2.0-liter supercharged engines may produce a low or fluctuating idle after the engine is started, hot or cold. If a scan tool doesn't turn up any trouble codes and there are no other drivability or performance issues noted, the PCM will require reprogramming with updated software files to eliminate the idle complaints. Check with a dealer for the specifics of the flash.
Land Rover
Some 2006-08 Range Rovers with non-turbo engines may produce a rough or unstable idle while in Park or Neutral. Land Rover says the condition is most obvious during engine warm-up, although it can occur intermittently at normal operating temperatures, as well. The likely source of the trouble is rapid changes in ignition timing due to the PCM and TCM overreacting to minute changes in engine torque. Reprogramming both modules is the only surefire remedy. Check with a dealer for the application specifics.
Ford
Some 2005-07 Ford Five Hundreds and Freestyles and Mercury Montegos may emit a squeak or crunch from the front of the vehicle while rotating the steering wheel during low-speed turning maneuvers. One likely cause of the noise, reports Ford, is a defective upper strut mount. Installing a new-design mount, part No. 5F9Z-18183-B, on both sides of the car is the only reliable fix.
"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]