Letters: Scan Mercury for stored codes

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Q: Our 2001 Mercury runs great, but lately it has developed an intermittent starting problem. It doesn’t seem to matter whether it’s hot or cold. I thought maybe the engine was getting flooded with fuel so I sniffed the tailpipe. There was no smell at all, not exhaust or unburned fuel.

Sometimes after several starting attempts the engine eventually fires up as if nothing was wrong. The car will start normally for several days and then it will not start. Do you have any ideas? Could it be the fuel pressure, fuel pump or a sensor?
– Lee, Rocky Ford, Colo.

A: All of the above. The first thing I would suggest, though, is to have your Mercury scan tested to see if there are any codes stored. If there are stored codes, they can be of assistance in locating the source of the trouble. If there are no stored codes you’ll likely need to wait until the problem occurs in order to figure out whether the engine is losing spark, fuel or both.

A loss of fuel pressure could be due to a faulty fuel pump or there could be a problem with the electrical circuit to the fuel pump. A loss of spark could be due to a faulty powertrain control module power relay, faulty crankshaft position sensor or faulty PCM. All of the electrical connections at the junction boxes by the battery should be checked, too.

Q: I recently purchased a 1999 Volvo S80. The problem is that once it’s running, the engine revs up and surges. Some people said it might be the fuel filter. What do you think? – Valerie, Chicago

A: It’s possible that the fuel filter may need replacing, but the fuel pressure should be tested to determine if the fuel pump or fuel filter could be causing the problem. A scan tool should be connected to see if there are any codes stored.

The intake system, including all vacuum hoses and the inlet hose between the airflow sensor and the throttle, should be checked for leaks. Plus, the throttle housing should be inspected for potential problems or excess carbon buildup and cleaned if necessary.

Q: I’m wondering if there are any recalls for electrical problems on the 2006 Pontiac G6. Is there anything pertaining to the dash lights, CD player or other electrical accessories? – Gary, Chicago

A: I didn’t find anything specific to the dash lights or CD player, but I did find a recall regarding the brake lamps. Apparently the connections at the body control module can become corroded. The repair involves disconnecting the BCM connector and applying dielectric grease on the terminals.

Q: The blower motor in my 2000 Ford Taurus is making a strange noise. Someone told me it probably needs to be replaced. Is this a big job? Is it something a novice could do? Are any special tools needed? – Alex, Oak Lawn

A: No, it’s not a big job. It should take no more than about 30 minutes to complete. A small insulator panel needs to be removed to gain access to the blower motor and its fasteners. No special tools are needed and someone with a little mechanical aptitude should be able to handle it with little trouble.

Questions for Ira Siegel? Call the Auto Advisor Hotline at (708) 633-6839 or e-mail ira.siegel.is@gmail.com. Siegel is an automotive instructor and an automotive service excellence-certified master auto technician.