The Car Doc on starter relays, troublesome power windows and more

John Paul, aka “the Car Doctor,’’ answers readers’ car-related questions.

By John Paul @johnfpaul

June 14, 2016

3 minutes to read

Q. I have a 10-year-old Ford Explorer and for the last couple of years it has occasionally decided not to start. This happens after it has been driven, parked and a short time later restarted. The engine doesn’t turn over or even click. This problem now occurs every four to five weeks and is getting very frustrating. The more I drive the longer the period necessary for it to restart.

Hopefully you will have some ideas, since otherwise the car runs very well.

A. The problem sounds like in intermittent open circuit to the starter relay or faulty starter motor. Although even a circuit as simple as a starter requires testing. I had a similar problem with a no start condition and it presented as a faulty neutral safety switch when the engine wouldn’t start. If you shifted from park to drive and back to park the car would start. In the end the issue turned out to be a faulty starter. If you are going to guess, the starter relay is inexpensive and easy to change and a fairly common failure item

Q. My daughter drives a Jeep Wrangler and is considering replacing it with a Jeep Renegade, what do you think of this little Jeep?

A. I have not spent a lot of time in the Jeep Renegade but for the little time I did, I found it to be fun to drive, the handling and overall maneuverability were quite good. Although in my opinion it could use a bit more power if you are planning off road adventures. The styling stands out in a crowd and the interior is both functional and can be ordered with the latest high-tech features. EPA fuel economy numbers are 24 city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway, which is a bit low for a subcompact SUV. .

Q. A few months ago, I noticed that my 2008 Toyota Corolla engine seemed to be revving more when I was on the highway. The car runs great and it still very functional, do you think there is something serious in the future?

A. This could be an indication that the transmission is starting to act up. The higher RPMs are likely caused by the fact that the transmission may not be going into overdrive. Is it possible that you manual selected the overdrive button? Pushing this button will prohibit the transmission from shifting into overdrive.

Q. I have a 1996 Pontiac Bonneville; the car runs fine except that on rare occasions while driving it just shuts off. I have spent a fortune on this car and although after you made a few suggestions I think it is fixed but maybe it is time to trade my 20 year old car for a new model. What kind of American made car is similar to my Bonneville?

A. One car that comes immediately to mind is the Chevrolet Impala. The V-6 engine is strong and quiet; the interior is the best that has come out of General Motors in years. The back seat is roomy and comfortable for adults and the trunk can carry plenty of cargo.

Q. I have a 2003 Honda Accord and the passenger side power window doesn’t work and either does the driver’s side rear window. I thought it was the main switch and replaced it but it still doesn’t work. What could it be?

A. It is possible that a wire is broken between the body and the driver’s door. After 13 years of opening and closing it is not unusual to see these wires fail. It is also possible the window motors are just at the end of their life. As dependable as Honda models are, parts can wear out.