Ford
Ford said that the low fuel warning light on some 2007-08 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX models may come on even when the fuel tank is full. According to the carmaker, the problem only affects vehicles built prior to Nov. 1, 2007, usually occurs just after a tank fill-up, and is due to the fuel pump float binding against the lip of the metal baffle in the fuel tank. Bending the baffle so that there's sufficient clearance between it and the float is the simple fix.
Start the job by siphoning the gasoline and removing the fuel tank. Next, remove the fuel pump from the tank opening. Using the wooden end of a hammer, slowly bend the baffle toward the front of the vehicle. Now temporarily reinstall the fuel pump half way into the tank opening and check the clearance between the float and the baffle. The clearance should be 1 5/32-inch with the float all the way down and 13/16-inch with the float all the way up. Readjust the baffle as necessary to get the desired clearances. To complete the fix, reinstall the fuel pump, put the tank back into the vehicle, fill the tank with fuel, turn on the ignition and make sure the low fuel light is off.
Infiniti
Some 2004-10 QX56 luxury SUVs built prior to VIN 5N3ZA*N*AN904401 may emit a clunk, squeak or pop from the front suspension. According to Infiniti, the noise is most obvious when turning, while driving over speed bumps or other rough surfaces or under deceleration or hard acceleration. Defective front stabilizer bushings are the likely source of the noise. Replacing the bushings with upgraded units, part No. 54613-ZL10A, should prevent further trouble. For optimum results, clean the stabilizer bar with brake cleaner or a similar solvent before installing the new bushings.
Nissan
Owners of 2004-06 Titan pickup trucks built before Aug. 24, 2005, may complain of a squeaking sound from the rear suspension when going over speed bumps or rough road surfaces. Nissan reports that the noise can occur at one or both sides of the truck, and is most likely due to the leaf spring clip covers rubbing against the sides of the springs. Installing new-design covers (part No. 54099-ZH30A, two per side) and flat-head retaining screws (part No. 01412-0009U) to hold them in place should prevent further noise issues.
To install the new clip covers, begin by putting the pickup on a drive-on lift. Next, remove the clip cover retaining screw. Push inward on the disc in the center of the plastic cover to release it from the clip, then pull up on the cover and slide it off the old clip. Now push in on the disc of the new-design cover and slide it down over the clip. Repeat the procedure for the other clip cover. Install the flat-head screw to hold the covers in place, making sure you peen the side opposite the head with a chisel to hold it in position. To complete the fix, repeat the procedure at the other leaf spring, if necessary.
"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].