Q: My husband and I have a ‘94 Chevy Corsica. It drives beautifully but it does have one problem. It won’t shift until the vehicle is warmed up for about five minutes. After that, it shifts fine and drives fine. My husband thinks it’s a problem with the transmission, but I don’t know. We’re hoping you can help. -- P.R., Glenview

A: P.R., your husband is correct, the transmission is the culprit. It may not need a complete overhaul, though. You’ll want to make sure that the fluid level is adequate and that the correct type of fluid is being used. Also, there could be a problem with the shift solenoids or the wiring between the shift solenoids and the PCM (Powertrain Control Module). If you’re sure that the fluid type and level are good, take your Corsica to a transmission shop for a proper diagnosis. You’ll want to leave it with them overnight so they can experience the cold operation as well as warm operation.

Q: I have a ’99 Buick Regal GS (supercharged) and the problem is that the engine will stall out while driving. The “check engine” light came on and a shop read a trouble code for the Mass Air Flow sensor. They said it needed to be replaced. I’ve replaced the Mass Air Flow sensor three times and the problem is still there. I also had the throttle body cleaned out and that hasn’t helped. Do you have any ideas? -- M.G.

A: M.G., trouble codes don’t usually pinpoint a failed part. Diagnostic tests need to be performed once the trouble codes are retrieved from a computer’s memory. Obviously, the Mass Air Flow sensor wasn’t the cause of your car’s stalling. For your particular vehicle, the Mass Air Flow sensor codes (there are three different codes associated with the sensor on your Regal) could be due to faulty wiring or connections between the sensor and the PCM (Powertrain Control Module), vacuum leaks, faulty EGR valve, faulty MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor, or a faulty PCM. The stalling could be the result of a crankshaft position sensor going bad, but before needlessly replacing any more parts, take your Regal to a shop that specializes in engine performance repairs. The technician diagnosing your vehicle should be ASE-certified in “Engine Performance – A8” and “Advanced Engine Performance – L1”.

Q: My 1993 Honda Accord sits very low in the front and makes a clunking noise when going over bumps. My friend, who fixes cars on the side, said the struts probably need replacement. What do you think? By the way, I’m the original owner and I don’t remember replacing them before. -- G.P., Chicago

A: G.P., the front struts on your Accord likely do need replacement. Struts and shock absorbers generally need replacement every 40k or 60k miles, depending on the types of roads you drive on. Driving on bumpy roads will cause them to wear out sooner. However, since you mentioned that your car is sitting low, you likely need front springs, too. The springs are the components that support the weight of the vehicle and maintain correct ride height, not the struts.

AutoAdviser: Ira Siegel is an Automotive Instructor and ASE Certified Master Auto Technician. If you have auto-related questions for Ira Siegel you can call and leave your questions at the Auto Adviser Hotline at 708-633-6839 or e-mail a question to Autoadvisr@aol.com.