General Motors
Owners of 2004-06 Cadillac SRX, 2004-07 CTS or 2005-07 STS models with 2.8-liter or 3.6-liter engines may come you're your store with a complaint that their fuel gauge reads empty even though there's gasoline remaining in the tank. According to GM, the inaccurate gauge reading may be accompanied by a “fuel level low” message on the driver information center, and in some cases, an illuminated Check Engine light with trouble code P2066 stored in PCM memory.
One likely cause for the trouble is the PCM incorrectly incrementing to the trip computer the amount of fuel used, especially during short trips with frequent key cycles between tank fill-ups. Reprogramming the module with updated software is the only reliable fix. Check with a dealer for the specifics of the flash.
Chrysler
Some 2007-09 Jeep Compass and Patriot models built before April 23, 2009, may ride roughly or handle poorly when driven over bumps or rough road surfaces. One possible cause for the trouble, reports Chrysler, is a leaky front strut. The leakage can occur on one or both sides of the vehicle. Replacing the strut(s) along with the jounce bumper and dust shield is the permanent fix. Note that the jounce bumper and shield are now two separate pieces, replacing the old one-piece design used in the past. Order part No. 05171137AB for the new bumper; part No. 05171132AC for the new dust shield.
Ford
Ford reports that some 2005 F-150 pickups with the 3-valve, 5.4-liter engines built between Aug. 23, 2004, and Jan. 15, 2005, may turn on the check engine light after a cold start and store trouble code P061B and/or P2106 in PCM memory.
According to the carmaker, the problem usually occurs while the transmission is rapidly shifted from Neutral into Drive or Reverse, and is most likely due to software anomalies in the PCM. Reprogramming the module with updated software is the only guaranteed fix. Check with a dealer for the details of the flash.
"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].