Q: I own a ’92 Buick Roadmaster. The problem is that the climate control keeps switching to “Econ” mode. What has happened? -- W.W., e-mail

A: W.W., the electronic climate control system in your Buick features self-diagnostics that can be accessed without any special tools. If you’re curious, to place your Buick’s electronic climate control system into diagnostic mode, the “TEMP (arrow up)” touch switch must be pressed and held while the “OFF” switch is then pressed (normally within 5 seconds). Upon entry into the diagnostic mode, the LCD will display any fault codes that are present. The service information lists only ten two-digit fault codes numbered 01 through 10. However, it’s quite possible that your Buick’s climate control assembly, the dash-mounted unit with the buttons and LCD display, has failed. If that’s the case, it will likely cost over $400 to replace it.

Q: I have a 2003 Chevy Impala with only 20,000 miles on it. I have had it to the dealers numerous times for what sounds like an engine backfire. They have tried a lot of things to correct it. Now they found out the noise is from the rear seat speakers. When starting the car, at the point of ignition, the backfire noise occurs. Do you have any ideas of what I can do for this? People jump when I start the car in parking lots. -- E.D., Portage, IN

A: E.D., sounds like an amplifier issue to me. If dealers haven’t been able to solve the problem, try taking your car to someone who specializes in electrical or car audio systems. The amplifier’s power and ground circuits should be checked to see that they’re providing good connections. If they’re okay, the amplifier may need to be replaced.

Q: I’m trying to replace the rear struts in my 1997 Ford Escort sedan. I have the new struts and a friend loaned me his strut compressor tool. After taking the rear wheels off, I removed the fasteners that hold the lower part of the strut to the knuckle. The top of the strut is usually fastened inside the trunk area, but I looked and can’t find any fasteners. Do you know where they’re hiding? -- L.R., Chicago

A: L.R., yes, they’re hiding under the package tray trim panel found inside the rear seat area by the rear window. You’ll first need to remove the rear seat trim and then you can access and remove the package tray trim panel. When unfastening the upper strut mount from the body, remove the two smaller nuts and not the large one that holds the whole strut assembly together.

Q: I’m interested in the Chevy Aveo for its low price and good fuel economy. Have you driven one? Would you recommend it? -- S.J., Chicago Ridge

A: S.J., yes I have driven the Chevy Aveo, and I would recommend it. Aveo’s low price, roomy interior, good fuel economy and surprisingly nice ride make it a good buy in its class.

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.