Dave Redinger's The Neighboorhood Mechanic 1/11/06

DAVE

REDINGER

ASK THE NEIGHBOURHOOD MECHANIC

Now that gas pricing has leveled off it’s time to review your automotive budget. Ya right!

I have never met anyone who actually budgeted for car repairs let alone maintenance. Take a serious look at how you maintain your car. I’ll let you in on a secret … “it’s cold outside”

Standing on side of the road in the cold and dark is not the best way to meet people.

I got an exhaust question for you. The exhaust pipe of my 1995 Jetta is covered in black soot. Is this a problem? I heard it could be due to my car burning too much oil (which recently seems to be the case. I have to top up my oil quite a bit after a long drive). Is this a cause for the black exhaust?

Jill

Cars should not emit smoke. Exhaust gases should be invisible. Black smoke is not a sign of oil burning, oil burns blue. Black smoke is a sign of an engine that has an injection problem. This condition referred to as running rich will cause an increase in oil consumption. This type of repair is complicated, but; definitely necessary.

I am not a high mileage driver and I’m looking to by a small used car from 2001 to 2004, like a Hyundai or any 4 cylinder car. I am looking for a standard transmission. What is the best value for my money?
Stan

I hate to burst your bubble but there are no good deals in the sector you are describing. With higher fuel costs everybody is looking at this sector so be prepared to pay. However; if you are not a high mileage driver there is a lot of product available in the midsize market...I would be looking at the North American brands. Good value and quality. If you have to purchase in this market the quality of all brands is very consistent.

Dave Redinger a mechanic with over 40 yrs of experience operates his shop “DOCTOR H HONDA SPECIALISTS in Toronto for the last 25 yrs. Dave can be heard every Saturday morning at 9:00 on “THE NEIGHBOURHOOD MECHANIC” on AM740

Email your questions to: davidredinger@rogers.com or AM740.ca ( we respond to all emails)

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