Chrysler
Owners of 2004 Pacifica models may complain of a creak or squeak from the brake pedal when the brakes are applied with moderate force.
A likely cause of the noise, Chrysler said, is abnormal contact between the brake pedal return spring coils. Lubing the spring with a multi-purpose grease should eliminate the condition. For better results, press and release the brake pedal at least five to ten times to allow the grease to work its way into the coils.
Ford
Some 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs may emit a clicking or rubbing sound from the left front wheel. According to Ford, the noise is most prevalent on vehicles built between 10/21/08 and 10/31/08 and might be accompanied by an illuminated ABS light. One likely cause for the condition is the ABS wheel speed sensor making contact with the tone wheel. A deformed steering knuckle is the ultimate culprit.
To make a definitive diagnosis, remove the left front wheel and measure the air gap between the speed sensor and tone wheel. If the gap is 0.02-inch or greater, this information doesn't apply; continue troubleshooting until the noise issue is resolved. If the air gap is less than 0.020-inch or there's physical evidence of contact between the speed sensor and tone wheel, that confirms that the steering knuckle is bent. Installing a new-design knuckle, part No. 5L8Z-3K186-BA, and speed sensor (if the old one is damaged) should put a quick end to the trouble.
Mitsubishi
Owners of 2002-07 Lancer models with 2.0-liter engines may come into your store with a complaint that their vehicle is sometimes difficult to start, or won't start at all. The starting troubles may be accompanied by an illuminated Check Engine light, with trouble code P0335 and/or P0340 stored in PCM memory.
One probable cause for all these symptoms, reports Mitsubishi, is a damaged cam sensor support. The support gets damaged due to lack of lubrication. Installing a new-design support with special oil grooves to increase oil flow, part No. 1865A128, should prevent further starting trouble. Before reinstalling the cam position sensor, don't forget to clean out the metal shavings and other debris.
"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].