Can new cars be fitted with an old-fashioned kill switch? | Car Doctor
Q: With all the talk about Hyundai and Kia thefts, can these new cars be fitted with an old-fashioned kill switch?
A: You can install a kill-switch and wire it into the ignition or even into the fuel pump. I have even seen wireless battery disconnect that operates with a remote key fob. The only issue with this would be that every time you used it, you would likely need to reprogram the radio, clock and other memory functions. Still, the old-fashioned rules apply: Park in well-lit areas, lock the car and keep valuables out of sight.
Looking for a reliable mechanic to diagnose Volvo's 'check engine' light
Q: Can you recommend a dependable car mechanic/repair shop for our 2011 Volvo XC70, which has been showing the "check engine" light off and on? I took it to local shop a month ago for the the check engine light. At that shop, they changed the spark plugs and ignition coil. I do not want to be ripped off or, worse yet, just get shoddy service.
A: Finding a quality repair shop can be a challenge. Start with word of mouth and checking social media for good recommendations. AAA has Approved Auto Repair shops that require ASE certification, very favorable customer reviews, periodic reevaluation by AAA field staff and consumer arbitration. Go to aaa.com/repair to find a shop near you.
What's the best tool to measure battery draw?
Q: What is a decent clamp meter for measuring battery draw that will not break the bank? The ones I am seeing online are for AC current only. One using "hall effect" is needed. What meter does AAA road service use?
A: We use a tool from B2Q b2qtech.com that evaluates the battery, parasitic drain and alternator and starters.
I have found that most clamp-on-style amp clamps are not sensitive enough to read milli-amps. I have found the old-fashioned way of disconnecting the negative cable and measuring the current draw still works.
Here is a pretty good video — not mine — from YouTube that may be helpful: bit.ly/3N3DkfR.
Will 15% ethanol in gas harm the engine?
Q: I read recently that gasoline may now contain up to 15% ethanol. What is your take on that?
A: All automakers approve blends up to E10 (10% ethanol) in their gasoline vehicles. As of 2011, the EPA began allowing the use of E15 in model year 2001 and newer gasoline vehicles.
So for the most part, any 2001 and newer vehicles should be able to use E15 gasoline.
I would not recommend E15 in older vehicles, boats or gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment, since it may cause damage.
Also, according to the EPA, you may see a reduction of up to 5% of your car’s fuel economy.
What is the source of the wind whistle in my car?
Q: My car has a wind whistle coming from somewhere inside the vehicle. I am not sure if it is one of the door seals, the windshield or something else. Is there an easy way to check this? Someone told me to get a smoke machine and fill the car with synthetic smoke and look for it to leak out. I am not sure about that.
A: The smoke machine is an option but requires a certain amount of prep, blocking off vents. Instead, I've had pretty good luck bringing the wind to the car. I have found that using an electric/battery leaf blower set on low speed can sometimes find leaks.
Air freshener discolored the vinyl on my dashboard
Q: I recently bought a new car and did not care for the “new car” smell, so I purchased a few air fresheners. The one I put on the dash discolored the vinyl. When I went back to the dealer, all they said was it was not covered by the warranty. What is up with that?
A: The dealer is correct. Some air fresheners contain chemicals that can stain interiors. Staining the dash pad with an air freshener or anything else would not be considered a defect.
After I read your email, I was at the automotive section of a department store and noticed that some air fresheners have warnings that staining may occur.
How can I add modern radio features to an antique car?
Q: I have an antique car with the original AM tube radio. It works fine, but I want to listen to other music and FM or maybe even satellite. Any suggestions on adding a radio with the new features without changing the car?
A: You could change out the radio with a vintage-look radio, which gives the appearance of an older radio.
You could also go to a car stereo installer who can hide a new receiver in the car, and it would operate with a remote control.
Or, for a very quick and easy answer, buy a compact rechargeable Bluetooth speaker, tuck it away somewhere and connect it to your phone.
Today, you can easily have Pandora, Spotify and SXM on your phone and play it through a quality wireless speaker.
John Paul is the AAA Northeast Car Doctor. He has more than 40 years of experience in the automobile industry and is an ASE-Certified Master Technician. Write to John Paul, The Car Doctor, at 110 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904. Or email jpaul@aaanortheast.com and put “Car Doctor” in the subject field. Follow him on Twitter @johnfpaul or on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Car Doctor: Can new cars be fitted with an old-fashioned kill switch?
