Mitsubishi
Some 2006 Raider pickup trucks with 3.7L engines may emit an annoying chirping sound from the accessory drive belt area. According to Mitsubishi, the noise usually occurs when the vehicle is traveling slowly with the steering wheel at full lock (such as while parking), and is due to the drive belt slipping on the alternator pulley. Installing a new-design, improved alternator pulley with a built-in overrunning clutch, Part No. 05170529AA, should eliminate the slippage and chirping issues in short order.
Chrysler
Some 2005-06 5.7-liter Jeep Grand Cherokees and 2006 3.0-liter Jeep Commanders built prior to Oct. 29, 2005, may produce a whining sound from the power steering system on first startup in the morning. According to Chrysler, the noise is most apparent when temperatures are below freezing, increases in intensity the colder the temperature gets and usually dissipates fairly quickly as the engine warms. Insufficient fluid flow through the power steering system is the most likely cause of the whining sound. Installing a new-design power steering reservoir, Part No. 52124317AA, should eliminate the noise immediately. Be aware that the new reservoir looks identical to the old one on the outside, but has internal design changes that promote better fluid flow through the system in colder temperatures.
Toyota
Toyota reports that the blower motors on some 2004-06 Sequoia, Sienna and Tundra D-cab models may make a squealing or chirping sound while operating. According to the Japanese carmaker, the noise can occur at any fan speed, and is most likely the result of design flaws in the OE blower motor. A new, improved-design motor is now available to eliminate the problem. Order Part No. 87103-0C022 for Sequoias and Tundras; or Part No. 87103-08050 for Siennas.
"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].