Can I hire someone to find me a used Jeep?

Autos

John Paul, AAA Northeast’s Car Health care provider, answers a concern from a reader searching for support obtaining an low-cost Jeep Wrangler.

Q. I was asking yourself if people retain the services of you to discover cars for them. If so, how does that method work? I am searching for a reasonably low-cost Jeep Wrangler for the beach front. If not, do you have any leads? Favored web sites?

A. There are automobile brokers who search for vehicles – not me (maybe a next profession?) Now new and used automobiles are even now in brief supply and folks are holding on to their present-day autos for a longer time than at any time in history. The Jeep Wrangler is a pleasurable summertime and wintertime car and also holds its worth for a longer period than lots of SUVs. I propose checking Jeep forums, Facebook web pages, and internet sites these kinds of as iSeeCars, CarGurus, and AutoTrader. Jeeps can be susceptible to rust concerns as well as transmission and transfer case failure, and any applied Jeep should really be checked by a good mend store prior to buy. 

Q. I have a 2019 Toyota Highlander. About a calendar year in the past, I began getting a challenge with the rear hatchback doorway. Often when I push the button to open it, it starts to open up but then stops. It can just take me many attempts to get it open up or closed. I introduced it to the dealer who stated they ran a diagnostic examination and advised me every thing looked ok.

A. I would start out by erasing the vehicle’s pc memory (the equal of a computer reboot). This will very clear any memory functions (such as radio presets and seat memory). Now you will need to reprogram the lift gate. With the liftgate totally open up, force and hold the near button until finally it beeps 4 situations, and the liftgate closes. This will reset the method. You will also require to reset the auto up and down attribute of the windows. This is also uncomplicated: Open the driver’s window absolutely, now shut the window and hold the up button for a few seconds. This should reset the computerized controls. 

Q. I have owned a 2010 Volkswagen Eos due to the fact 2012. It has about 57,000 miles and is in terrific working situation. In the years that I’ve owned it, I have had the convertible best fixed a quantity of periods owing to failure to open up or near and/or drinking water leakage. The dealership experienced lined the value of these repairs simply because the Eos was nevertheless below guarantee. We have since moved and commenced making use of a different VW dealership for repairs and general servicing. The best has considering that desired several far more (pricey) repairs. I introduced the Eos in because of to more leakage troubles as nicely as additional difficulties opening and closing the prime. The dealership held my motor vehicle for about a week then advised me that the total prime had to be changed to the tune of $15,000, which would not be protected.

A. There have been several specialized company bulletins about that roof, which, when it will work the right way, is a mechanical marvel. I have viewed a lot of issues with seal leaks and the roof’s ability to go up or down in sizzling weather conditions. It is pretty complicated with servos motors and pcs, but for the daily life of me I don’t know why you would replace the metal roof when there are so quite a few other parts to look at. I would question the dealer if they could call a Volkswagen discipline engineer and see if they can give a superior remedy than paying additional on the roof than the car is truly worth. 

Q. My 2009 Chevy Silverado requires the passenger-aspect higher manage arm changed according to a local garage mechanic. Should I replace each the remaining and right higher control arms and ball joints? The mechanic states in purchase to help save me dollars, only the one particular facet higher demands alternative. Also, I assumed that the decrease command arms and ball joints bear most of the fat of the automobile. Any thoughts?

A. You are accurate that in the suspension design and style utilized in your truck, the decreased management arms and ball joints carry the bulk of the load. It is also typical that the correct will don more quickly, because the suitable-aspect tire is in the gutter of the road. Thinking of the value of components and labor these days, I concur with repairing only what is mistaken now. I would also thank your mechanic for on the lookout out for both your basic safety and your wallet. 

Q. Whilst waiting for various traffic lights I hear people in automobiles close to me turning their autos on and off.  Is this to conserve gas, and do you recommend I do this?

A. Several cars manufactured in the past number of decades use an idle-stop characteristic that when certain circumstances are fulfilled, will stop the engine to save fuel. These autos will ordinarily have a extra strong battery and starter. To save gas in your car, continue to keep tires adequately inflated, accelerate steadily, and use the brakes gently. Also, continue to be at the velocity restrict, and if you regular coffee and other rapid meals travel-thrus, park the motor vehicle and wander in. These tiny improvements in driving habits have demonstrated to preserve fuel and enhance in general miles per gallon. 

John Paul is AAA Northeast’s Vehicle Medical professional. He has about 40 several years of practical experience in the automotive business enterprise and is an ASE-accredited learn technician. E-mail your motor vehicle issue to [email protected]. Hear to the Automobile Medical doctor podcast at johnfpaul.podbean.com.