Q: We have a 2005 Dodge Caravan SXT with approximately 100,000 miles on it.
The problem is that when going over a big bump in the road, such as a rough rail grade crossing, the van will die. The engine stops running and the lights and radio go out as well. This behavior is consistent when crossing that particular grade. Our trustworthy mechanic has gone over the vehicle and has not been able to identify the cause of the problem. No problem codes show up on the computer check. What do you think the cause might be? – N.M., e-mail
A: If I were working on your van, I would start by checking the battery cables and their connections, both at the battery and also where the opposite ends attach. All of the major grounds should be checked and so should the battery positive feed into the integrated power module. If the cables are good and their connections are clean and tight, then there might be a problem inside the power module.
If your mechanic hasn’t been able to find the problem, it might be time to look for one who specializes in electrical/ electronic repairs and/or diagnostics.
Q: I own a 1998 Buick Regal in which the dashboard lights no longer work. The warning lights still work, but the backlighting and odometer no longer come on. Do you have any idea as to what could be the problem and how much it might cost to fix? – Q.V., e-mail
A: The backlighting issue could be bad bulbs. But since none of them work, it’s more likely something else is wrong. And since the digital odometer isn’t working, too, there could be something wrong with the instrument cluster itself.
The instrument cluster will need to be removed for further testing; it takes about one hour to perform this task. If the cluster is bad, there are businesses that repair them.
I’d recommend you search for these businesses on the Internet (“instrument panel repair”) and contact them. They might be able to give you some idea as to how much the repairs will cost.
Q: I have a 1994 Plymouth Acclaim with 70,000 miles. Lately when I start the car, the airbag warning light stays on for a few seconds and then disappears. Then it comes on again before I can drive out of the driveway.
After driving a few blocks it will go off, only to go on again in a few more blocks. This intermittent display continues for about one mile, after which it stays off. Is it trying to tell me something? – D.S., e-mail
A: Yes, your car’s airbag system is trying to tell you something. However, a scan tool will be needed to see if there are any stored trouble codes associated with the airbag system. It could be something simple like a poor electrical connection somewhere or it could be that there’s something wrong with the airbag module, a sensor or the airbag control module.
To have the problem diagnosed, you’ll need to take it to someone who has all the tools and the service information, preferably someone who specializes in airbag system repairs.
Questions for Ira Siegel? Call the Auto Advisor Hotline at (708) 633-6839 or e-mail autoadvisr@aol. com. Siegel is an automotive instructor and an automotive service excellence certified master auto technician.
