Q. The engine fan in my 2011 Nissan Frontier runs constantly. Previously, they were activated when needed for cooling and air conditioning purposes. I believe it's all electric now, but where are the switches and sensors? I think if something goes wrong, it goes into a default mode and continues to work, rather than dangerously not working at all. Masu.
A. Nissan and many other vehicle fans have multiple speeds. The computer controls the fan speed based on information from the temperature sensor. Unlike some other vehicles that use separate temperature sensors for the fan and computer, Nissan only lists one sensor. There could be a problem with the sensor, the relay (there are two of them), the wiring, or the fan itself. Technicians using scan tools can not only read temperature data but also command fans to turn on and off. This will help you see which components are working.
Q. I'm tired of the glare from headlights. I've been driving for 50 years and the headlights on these new cars are too bright. What can be done about this? They should be illegal.
A. What's interesting is that most of the complaints I receive about bright headlights are from people who would benefit the most from being able to see better at night. At age 60, you need three times as much light to see as you did at age 20. I've evaluated thousands of cars over the past 40 years, and there are certainly good and bad headlight designs. In addition to glare, our eyes are attracted to bright light, so when we see bright headlights, we tend to stare into them. Just as we need more light to see as we get older, we also need more time to get used to glare. Around 1980, most cars had standard incandescent headlights, but then they switched to halogen lamps, and people complained. This problem was quickly resolved as halogen headlights were relatively inexpensive and many drivers upgraded to halogens. Then brighter Zenon or HID lights started appearing. These were very expensive options on luxury cars. HID lights are now being replaced by LED lights, and that's part of the problem. Many drivers buy aftermarket his LED replacement bulbs. These bulbs are so bright that they are illegal to use on the road, but people buy them. The 40-year-old headlight regulations were recently updated by DOT/NHTSA to allow European-style headlights. One of the designs is Matrix Light. I've seen and tested this on an Audi. On each side of the car he has 13 light bulbs and no traditional high/low beams. These lights provide incredible light, but the bulb/light segment shuts down when other vehicles approach. This design provides enough light to the edge of the road without blinding oncoming drivers.
Q. I recently saw a Tesla-powered Toyota RAV4 for sale. Although the car was older, it was equipped with a Tesla drivetrain. when did it happen?
A. I think what you saw was a RAV4 with a very early Tesla battery (made by Panasonic). I remember seeing these at a big car show around 2010, and most people at the time thought EVs were a fad and Tesla was just a quick addition to the automotive history books. I was there.
Q. What do I need to check or do to get my car ready for summer? After three years of being stuck at home due to coronavirus, it's time to explore the country. My wife, I, and our small dog drive the 2018 Honda CR-V. The car is in good condition and has only 40,000 miles on it.
A. Being a 2018 model, the Honda car still sounds new, but it's six years old so it may need some maintenance and repairs. If your car has more than 40,000 miles on it, it may need new tires (long road trips require a significant investment) and your brakes may be nearing the end of their useful life. there is. Change the engine oil, air filter, cabin filter, and check the battery (if it's a genuine one, just replace it). Check all belts, hoses, and coolant levels and condition. If the brakes need to be replaced, also replace the brake fluid. If you will be driving on mountain roads with your rooftop carrier, change your transmission fluid before your trip and use only Honda fluid. Enjoy your trip and send us your photos.
John Paul is an automotive doctor at AAA Northeast. He has over 40 years of experience in the automotive business and is an ASE certified Master Technician. Email your question to Car Doctor jpaul@aaanortheast.com. Listen to the Car Doctor podcast johnfpaul.podbean.com.
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