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What’s wrong with my vehicle’s radio knob?
John Paul, AAA Northeast's Car Doctor, answers a question from a reader who’s having trouble with the radio volume knob in their SUV.
Q. The radio volume dial is wonky on my 2010 Toyota RAV4. I can spin it to get the volume I want, but it does not increase or decrease in volume in sync with the amount of times I am spinning the dial. I am guessing that it’s just aging contacts (I really have no idea whether that is even a real diagnosis) but I’m wondering if the issue progresses to non-functionality, what is the cure for the problem and what will be the approximate cost?
A. I have not tried it on a Toyota RAV4, but typically in a case like this the volume control is dirty. Try removing the knob and spray some electrical contact cleaner down the shaft of the knob. Spin the control back and forth for about a minute and see what happens. Do this with the car and the radio off. Usually, if it cleans up the control, the results will be immediate. If this does not work, then the radio will need to come out to be repaired.
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Q. I need two opinions. First, my 2011 Hyundai Sonata needs a transmission, and the engine has 220,000 miles. I have a $4,000 quote for a new transmission. The engine runs but goes through plenty of oil. I am going to see a 2015 Ford Explorer. It is a former government vehicle with 160,000 miles and is from an auction for $6,500. The person who has it is reputable. Your thoughts on what I should do?
A. To me, neither option is good. The Ford Explorer, once they age, can become very expensive to maintain. Repairs to the water pump and timing chains are typical and can cost several thousands of dollars to repair, and at this mileage could be due soon. Also, a former government vehicle, especially if it were a police car, could be at the end of its life. The Hyundai at 220,000 is about worn out. If the transmission is slipping but still shifts, try a bottle of Lucas transmission repair. If the seals are weak, you may get a bit more life out of it until you can find a better choice in a reasonably priced used car.
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Q. I have a 2022 Cadillac XT5 with 31,000 miles. All scheduled maintenance and tire rotations have been performed by the dealership. While the tires are worn evenly, they have only 2/32″ of tread remaining. This vehicle came equipped with Michelin Tires (with a 55,000 mile rating). I experienced the same exact problem with the 2019 Cadillac XT5 that I owned before getting the 2022 model. What do you think about this? I have been told by more than one source that the tires on many new cars are not the same as the same model tires that you buy aftermarket. One of the reasons is car manufacturers want their leased cars returned with tires that have been replaced.
A. Interesting thought about the leasing aspect, but I do not think that is it. The original equipment tires are designed to provide a certain level of ride and handling with less concern for longevity. I have seen original tires wear out at 25,000 to 30,000 miles and the replacements that are the same brand and model last twice as long. Based on my personal experience and what I saw years ago working at a tire store, I would say with some brands there is a significant difference in the construction of an original equipment tire versus the same replacement tire.
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Q. I have a 2010 Toyota Tacoma that I purchased new. I was aware that Tacomas were part of a frame rust/rot recall. I was told the recall applied to models up to 2009. I assumed my 2010 was safe and not involved. My truck was recalled for four other issues which the dealer promptly addressed. Now, I see extensive frame rot. My local dealer said they extended the frame repair to 2015 and then to 2022. I was never notified. My neighbor (a lawyer) had his 2009 recalled and a new frame installed. He says Toyota cannot put a time limit on a safety repair. They had the truck for four other recalls, they should have noticed! The truck is garaged and has 42,000 miles.
A. Your neighbor is partially correct, NHTSA recalls do not have a time limit, however this was not a government mandated recall but more of a warranty extension performed under customer satisfaction. Toyota called it a limited-service campaign. To try to get results from Toyota – and this may sound a bit odd in this day and age – but here is what I have found gets the best results: Document the condition of the truck, have the dealer write up the condition, and then write an actual letter to Toyota. Looking online I would send it to: Jack Hollis EVP 6565 Headquarters Dr, Plano, TX 75024. If you still are told there is no help, perhaps find a welding shop that can patch the frame.
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John Paul is AAA Northeast’s Car Doctor. He has over 40 years of experience in the automotive business and is an ASE-certified master technician. E-mail your Car Doctor question to [email protected]. Listen to the Car Doctor podcast at johnfpaul.podbean.com.
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