Q: I have a 1999 Buick Century with 50K miles. About two months ago it started blowing the passenger side turn signal every two weeks or so. My husband just keeps replacing the bulb, but I am buying these by the gross. Do you have any idea what might be causing this to happen? -- F.G., e-mail

A: F.G., if multiple bulbs were failing prematurely I’d suggest having the charging system checked to see if there is an overcharge condition. But since you described only one particular bulb that’s failing, check to see if the turn signal lens assembly has any moisture or water residing inside. If water is getting in, it can slosh around, causing the glass part of the bulb to break. If that’s the case, the lens assembly will need to be replaced. If you don’t see any water intrusion, and/or the bulb’s glass is not breaking, the lamp’s socket that the bulb fits into could be faulty. Also, the socket should fit snugly into the lens assembly to prevent the bulb from bouncing around. Other than that, you may want to try a different brand bulb.

Q: I am writing because I am trying to find out what the law is for selling a used car that was once a rental car. My wife and I purchased a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am from a local dealer last October. We started having problems 3 months after buying it, little stuff mostly. While fixing these small problems, I noticed a few stickers from a major car rental agency. Now the manifold gasket has gone out, and the dealer wants over $1,100 to fix it. I would never have purchased a used rental car knowingly, so I have been trying to see what the law is on this. Does the dealer have to notify the buyer that the vehicle was a rental car? Please help me if you can. Also, if there is such a law, what can I do now to solve this? The car only has a little over 70,000 miles. -- R.N., Lombard

A: R.N., the dealer does not have to notify you that the vehicle was a rental car. For anyone buying a used car, whether from a private party or a used/new dealer, I would recommend you ask for a vehicle history report. Also, I’d recommend a vehicle inspection be performed by an outside source. Don’t settle for their inspection report. You’ll spend a few bucks for an inspection, but it could save you from a headache down the road. These suggestions and more are listed on the following Web site: www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/consumers/used_vehicle.pdf. As for the cost to repair your used car, see if the dealer where you purchased the car will offer any “goodwill” and lower the expense to you. If not, let them know that you’ll shop elsewhere for your next car.

Q: In a previous column, a reader wanted to know if there was anything that would clean his foggy, dull headlamp lenses. My car had the same problem and when it was recently in for service, my technician applied a product called 3M Plastic Polish. It was very effective, and you might want to pass this along. -- N.P., Chicago

A: N.P., thanks. Consider it “passed along.”