Acura
Acura reports that the oil filter on some 2014 MDX SUVs may be extremely difficult to remove. One likely cause, says the Japanese carmaker, is that the filter was cross-threaded to the oil feed pipe — either at delivery or by a dealer or independent shop after an oil change. Replacing the feed pipe (Part No. 90015-PH1-013) is the only reliable course of action.
Start the job by getting the truck on a lift. Next, remove the engine splash shield. Now try to remove the filter. You'll probably encounter one of two scenarios: Either the filter will come out with the feed pipe attached or the filter will come out alone, with much difficulty. If the filter comes out alone, get a vise grip out of your box, lock it securely around the feed pipe threads and remove the pipe from the engine block.
To install the new oil feed pipe you'll need to get yourself two 20-by-1.5 mm jam nuts (Part No. 90326A145). When you've got them, install both jam nuts onto the feed pipe, as shown in the illustration above, and lock them together using a 30 mm wrench and socket. Apply a little engine oil to the threads of the new pipe, then install it into the block and tighten to 26 foot pounds. To complete the fix, remove the jam nuts, install the oil filter, fill the crankcase with oil, start the engine and check for leaks.
Honda
Honda reports that all of its 2005 Odyssey minivans, as well as 2006 models built from VINs 5FNRL38..6B000001 through 5FNRL38..6B106388 and 5FNRL38..6B400001 through 5FNRL38..6B443036, may emit a groaning sound from the front brakes when coming to a full stop from low speeds.
The Japanese carmaker says the most likely cause of the noise is improperly formulated front brake pad linings. Installing new-design pads, Part No. 45022-SHJ-A50, H/C 8303083, should eliminate the condition in short order. Before installing the pads, machine both front rotors, preferably with an on-car brake lathe.
Toyota
Some 2003-08 Corolla and Matrix models with 1ZZ-FE engines may illuminate the check engine light and store one or more of the following trouble codes in computer memory: P0171, P0300, P030x and P0133.
Toyota says the codes usually set in subfreezing weather, and are most likely due to a vacuum leak between one or more of the intake runners and the cylinder head. Installing an improved intake manifold gasket, Part No. 17171-22060, should seal off the leak and eliminate prevent further drivability issues.
"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].