Dear Doctor: I have a 2004 Cadillac CTS with 80,000 miles. It's using 1 quart of oil at 300 miles. My mechanic checked it, including a compression test. There's no black smoke from the exhaust and he said he couldn't find anything wrong. What do you think? -- John 
 Dear John: That's a lot of oil consumption in 300 miles. Your mechanic will need to check the PCV system if equipped and make sure the crank case is not building up pressure. The engine does not necessarily have to have a compression loss to be consuming oil. Leaking valve guides will cause oil to be sucked into the cylinders and burn. There's also the possibility that the cylinder rings could be loaded with carbon and sludge, causing pressure in the crank case and oil consumption. GM sells a top engine cleaner that can be poured into each cylinder, and in some cases, break up the sludge and free up the piston rings. As for smoke out the exhaust, the catalytic converter is helping to burn up the oil, so you will not see it burning. 
 Dear Doctor: I have an intermittent problem on my 2009 Dodge Journey. When turning the key to start I get a clicking sound. After a few times it starts. The dead battery had to be replaced last week, and since then it has happened once again. The alarm goes off at odd times when unlocking the doors. Hope you have a solution. -- Bill 
 Dear Bill: The most common fault that causes a clicking is a faulty starter motor. It would be great if the clicking would happen at the shop so they can check for voltage at the starter motor. As for the alarm sounding, it could be the body control module getting confused and sounding the alarm. You can disconnect the battery overnight to completely clear the module memory. 
 Dear Doctor: I purchased a 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 pickup with the max trailering package and the 6.2-liter engine. After the initial break-in of 500 miles, I switched to flex fuel. The truck runs and drives fine on it and GM highly recommends the use of flex fuel. I plan to continue the using it when I'm not towing my camper trailer. My concern is the long term effects of flex fuel, even though the truck is designed and built for its use. What's your opinion? -- Denny 
 Dear Denny: There's no question that engines are designed for flex fuel and the computer, sensors and fuel injectors are multi-functional as well. I do not see any long term effects from using either and/or switching back and forth. 
 Dear Doctor: What can cause my 1991 Ford Explorer's steering wheel to harden while driving, but loosen up while pressing the gas pedal? Once I let my foot off the pedal it hardens up a little bit and then when pressing the brake pedal it hardens up again, like the vehicle had turned off. -- Javier 
 Dear Javier: There is no question there is a pressure problem. Most commonly the problem is the power steering pump. Before replacing the pump, have the front end checked for any binding or tight moving front end parts. 
 Dear Doctor: I've been dealing with an intermittent failure on my 2004 Chevy Impala. The car fails to turn over. At first the failures were months apart, but now they are more frequent. I'm sure the problem is with the security system. Can you help? -- Jim 
 Dear Jim: The technician will connect a professional scan tool and look for any stored fault codes in the body control module. There have been many ignition switch problems with these vehicles. Sometimes using a different key can make a difference. When the engine does not start try leaving the key in the "on" position for 10 minutes and look to see if the security light is flashing. If the light is flashing, then there is a fault in the security system that will require diagnostics and repair by a technician who has knowledge of the system. 
 Dear Doctor: I always carry jumper cables in case of an emergency. Lately, I've been hearing it's not a good idea to jump start a car today, even if connected properly. The possibility exists that you can burn out your computer in the donor car. I was told to buy a portable battery jump start. Any truth to any of this? -- Joan 
 Dear Joan: You must be very careful when jump starting a vehicle that has a dead or low battery. Damage to the computer and/or electronic modules is possible. Check the owners manual for specific information regarding jump starting. We always use a battery jump box when we get a vehicle with a dead battery towed to my shop. I would much rather see you with a battery jump box vs. using another vehicle to do jump start. 
 Junior Damato is an ASE-certified Master Technician. Email questions to info@motormatters.biz. Mail questions to: Auto Doctor, 3 Court Circle, Lakeville, MA 02347

Dear Doctor: I have a 2004 Cadillac CTS with 80,000 miles. It's using 1 quart of oil at 300 miles. My mechanic checked it, including a compression test. There's no black smoke from the exhaust and he said he couldn't find anything wrong. What do you think? -- John Dear John: That's a lot of oil consumption in 300 miles. Your mechanic will need to check the PCV system if equipped and make sure the crank case is not building up pressure. The engine does not necessarily have to have a compression loss to be consuming oil. Leaking valve guides will cause oil to be sucked into the cylinders and burn. There's also the possibility that the cylinder rings could be loaded with carbon and sludge, causing pressure in the crank case and oil consumption. GM sells a top engine cleaner that can be poured into each cylinder, and in some cases, break up the sludge and free up the piston rings. As for smoke out the exhaust, the catalytic converter is helping to burn up the oil, so you will not see it burning. Dear Doctor: I have an intermittent problem on my 2009 Dodge Journey. When turning the key to start I get a clicking sound. After a few times it starts. The dead battery had to be replaced last week, and since then it has happened once again. The alarm goes off at odd times when unlocking the doors. Hope you have a solution. -- Bill Dear Bill: The most common fault that causes a clicking is a faulty starter motor. It would be great if the clicking would happen at the shop so they can check for voltage at the starter motor. As for the alarm sounding, it could be the body control module getting confused and sounding the alarm. You can disconnect the battery overnight to completely clear the module memory. Dear Doctor: I purchased a 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 pickup with the max trailering package and the 6.2-liter engine. After the initial break-in of 500 miles, I switched to flex fuel. The truck runs and drives fine on it and GM highly recommends the use of flex fuel. I plan to continue the using it when I'm not towing my camper trailer. My concern is the long term effects of flex fuel, even though the truck is designed and built for its use. What's your opinion? -- Denny Dear Denny: There's no question that engines are designed for flex fuel and the computer, sensors and fuel injectors are multi-functional as well. I do not see any long term effects from using either and/or switching back and forth. Dear Doctor: What can cause my 1991 Ford Explorer's steering wheel to harden while driving, but loosen up while pressing the gas pedal? Once I let my foot off the pedal it hardens up a little bit and then when pressing the brake pedal it hardens up again, like the vehicle had turned off. -- Javier Dear Javier: There is no question there is a pressure problem. Most commonly the problem is the power steering pump. Before replacing the pump, have the front end checked for any binding or tight moving front end parts. Dear Doctor: I've been dealing with an intermittent failure on my 2004 Chevy Impala. The car fails to turn over. At first the failures were months apart, but now they are more frequent. I'm sure the problem is with the security system. Can you help? -- Jim Dear Jim: The technician will connect a professional scan tool and look for any stored fault codes in the body control module. There have been many ignition switch problems with these vehicles. Sometimes using a different key can make a difference. When the engine does not start try leaving the key in the "on" position for 10 minutes and look to see if the security light is flashing. If the light is flashing, then there is a fault in the security system that will require diagnostics and repair by a technician who has knowledge of the system. Dear Doctor: I always carry jumper cables in case of an emergency. Lately, I've been hearing it's not a good idea to jump start a car today, even if connected properly. The possibility exists that you can burn out your computer in the donor car. I was told to buy a portable battery jump start. Any truth to any of this? -- Joan Dear Joan: You must be very careful when jump starting a vehicle that has a dead or low battery. Damage to the computer and/or electronic modules is possible. Check the owners manual for specific information regarding jump starting. We always use a battery jump box when we get a vehicle with a dead battery towed to my shop. I would much rather see you with a battery jump box vs. using another vehicle to do jump start. Junior Damato is an ASE-certified Master Technician. Email questions to info@motormatters.biz. Mail questions to: Auto Doctor, 3 Court Circle, Lakeville, MA 02347

Classifieds

Cars

carsAUTODOC09

Auto Doctor: Flex fuel shouldn't pose any long-term issues

Newsday

2013 GMC Sierra HD -crop

Most Popular

Latest Videos

Latest videos

On Thursday an "accidental electrical fire" damaged several areas of the historic Milleridge Inn's main property.

'Accidental electrical fire' damages Milleridge Inn

The "flip-flop" comes days after Newsday revealed the findings and raises questions about enforcement of fair housing laws. Newsday investigative reporter Josh Solomon has the story.

'I have never seen anything this egregious'

Hockey fans flocked to The Rinx in Hauppauge to see Sound Beach native and Stanley Cup champion Brandon Bussi of the Carolina Hurricanes. NewsdayTV's Jamie Stuart reports.

Bussi brings Cup to LI for 'unforgettable experience'

An overturned tanker truck spilled fuel on Rockaway Turnpike in Meadowmere on Wednesday.

Busy roadway closed after tanker overturns

Long Island is home to 13 of the top 50 high schools in the state, according to a new U.S. News & World Report ranking. NewsdayTV's Shari Einhorn reports.

High schools that made the list, and one that dropped

Sign up for the Daily Business newsletter

Business Newsletter Widget

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is warning more than 1 million Jeep owners their vehicles can catch fire — even when the ignition is turned off.

Jeep recall: Park outside as vehicles may catch fire until repairs are made

Business Article Bottom Module

President Donald Trump's barrage of tariffs and threats of even more levies has quickly strained the United States' longstanding relationship with Canada.

Trump's trade war with Canada: A timeline of how we got here

Ranchers in northern Mexico are preparing to resume cattle exports to the U.S. as a yearlong ban ends.

Mexican ranchers prepare to resume livestock sales to US under tight controls over screwworm risk

Many Federal Reserve officials think the central bank will have to lift its key short-term interest rate in the coming months if inflation doesn't subside, minutes of the Fed's meeting last month showed.

America In Focus: Fed officials eye higher rates; unemployment claims fall

Bitcoin and gold shot higher this week, with both getting a boost from some frantic action surrounding the bond market, and the cryptocurrency also benefiting from activity in Washington.

How bitcoin and gold went from a slump to an MVP week in just a few days

As climate change makes cities around the world unlivable, one city is using art and new infrastructure to adapt.

Florida shows how to adapt as coastal cities face growing threats from sea level rise and storms

Wall Street will get key updates next week on closely-watched measures for consumer confidence and inflation.

Wall Street week ahead: Reports on consumer confidence and inflation on tap

NEWSDAY TV SHORTS

Vertical videos

Cleaning crews were hard at work after a tornado ripped through the Sun and Surf Beach Club in Atlantic Beach Thursday evening. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports.

'It was just a whistling sound that came right through'

Jones Beach Theatre concertgoers were hit by a massive storm Thursday night, causing the show to be delayed. Some attendees thought the concert should have been canceled. NewsdayTV's Shari Einhorn reports.

'100% should have been cancelled'

Newsday travel reporter Carissa Kellman learns about renting and driving a skiff boat at Ted's Fishing Station in Point Lookout.

Cruise Long Island's shoreline on your own private boat

Since girls flag football became an official sport in New York high schools in the spring of 2023, participation in the sport has increased nearly 70%, NewsdayTV's Jared Valluzzi reports.

Flag football taking over spring sports

Ken Buffa stopped by La Cucina Paisanos in Farmingville to try their "pull apart soul-bowls," which are bread bowls stuffed with pasta.

Trendy Bites: Get stuffed with these Italian 'soul-bowls'

Mandates could include requiring new systems when old septic tanks fail or when houses are sold. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports.

Environmentalists want more mandates to replace Suffolk septic systems as program falls behind

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed shows us the dedication it takes to keep bees at the Hallockville Museum Farm in Riverhead.

Out East: All the buzz at the Hallockville Museum Farm

Newsday travel writer Carissa Kellman visits Onda Bella Cruises for a boat ride from Northport Harbor.

Cruise from Northport Harbor on the Onda Bella

Long-forgotten unpaid traffic infractions in other states are causing a delay in New York State license renewals. NewsdayTV's Shari Einhorn reports.

Outstanding out-of-state tickets holding back NYS license renewals 

Business Video Playlist

Some East End businesses already house workers priced out of the area. Now East Hampton is weighing rules that could expand the model — and the debate over tying housing to a job. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports.

'It's something I felt we had to do'

If the deal goes through, Giunta's Meat Farms will also acquire four Wild by Nature natural food stores. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

Giunta's Meat Farms acquiring 24 King Kullen stores

Fake listings, bogus fees and stolen data target renters squeezed by Long Island's high housing costs. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports.

'It's been a nightmare'

The price of childcare can be prohibitive for many Long Island parents. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports along with NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa, Newsday business reporter Victor Ocasio and daycare owner Janna Rodriguez.

'Probably as much as rent or mortgage'

The overall inflation rate for the Long Island area is now 5.1%, up from 3.4% in May 2025. Newsday business reporter James T. Madore has more.

'Long Islanders are feeling the pain'

Recently passed state auto insurance reforms could help lower car insurance rates as much as 10% for New York drivers, according to some estimates. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports.

'If it ain't now, it ain't happening. It's a dream.'

If approved, it would be the first new hospital on Long Island since 1980. Newsday business reporter James T. Madore has more.

'There are steps still to go'

The Riverhead Shake Shack, opening June 30, will be the chain's first on the East End.

Shake Shack set to open at Tanger Outlets

If approved, the 130,000-square-foot Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World would feature an indoor aquarium, historical displays and taxidermy wildlife mounts.

Bass Pro Shops combines outdoor gear, tourist attractions

Amanda Pastore, of Levittown, feels the pressure to provide her son a birthday party like other children his age — but at what financial cost?

'I just want him to fit in with everybody else'

Median home prices rose 7.8% in Nassau and 6.7% in Suffolk in April. Newsday business reporter Jonathan LaMantia has more.

'Things are looking up in terms of the number of new listings'

Government data shows grocery inflation in the metro area has risen 1.5%. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports.

'Everybody is feeling the pinch'

Cars - megaslot

Read the latest news, reviews, recalls and more for the vehicle makes and models that Long Islanders drive.

Most Popular

Latest Videos

Stay logged in.