Q: I have a 2004 Honda Accord that has lost power to the radio. Is this a common occurence with this model?

A: No it isn't common.  Did you check the fuse? Actually, two fuses--#5 and #32.

Q: I have a 2001 PT Cruiser. This morning when I opened the hood the hood release seemed a little hard too pull. After checking the oil I shut the hood but the latch will not catch and the inside latch handle did not go back down. How do I fix this? 

A: I'd start by cleaning the mechanism of the hood latch with some aerosol brake cleaner, followed by some aerosol lithium white grease to lube it. This usually fixes this problem. If not, check that the cable to the release isn't kinked or slipping. Once in awhile the inside latch and cable need to be lubricated as well. I'd suggest silicone spray for this to keep from staining the area with grease.

Q: I own a 2002 Chevy Malibu 3.1 that has low mileage and runs fine. But I've heard stories about other Malibu owners who are having problems with intake manifold gasket leaks caused by the red long life antifreeze. In my Malibu this antifreeze has already gelled in the overflow at 15k miles. Can I avoid a expensive gasket replacement by using the old green antifreeze in the radiator?

A: Maybe. Flush well, though, including the overflow.

Q: I have a bet going with my buddies and need some technical assistance. In general and for how long can you run a vehicle without a battery and just off the alternator? We both know the battery is needed to start the car, but once it is running do you need the battery to keep the car going without doing any damage to the electrical system? Can a vehicle run off just an alternator and support all the requirements with no battery? I have read many articles online, but no one has a definitive answer. Seeing that we live in snowy Michigan, assume the headlights, heat, windshield wipers, radio, and possibly rear defoggers are on. In the summer, AC, stereo and headlights.  Please help so that we can put this ongoing bet to rest!

A: Although I don't recommend it, a vehicle does not need a battery to continue running.The alternator will provide all of the energy necessary to run all of the electrical consumers. It might be a little hard to start, though. Specifically, when push-starting a vehicle with no battery, you'll have to push it long enough to let the alternator wake up and start producing current, which might take 3-5 seconds. Then the fuel pump and injection computer have to wake up and start managing the engine, which will be
another few seconds.

I know this from trying, generally unsuccessfully, to push-start motorcycles or race cars with dead batteries.

The battery, however, tends to smooth out any electrical surges and transients. Consequently, you might see a lot of blown fuses or burned-out light bulbs if you try running long without one. 

Q: The inside my 1999 Ford F 150 4.6 liter smells like coolant, and the windows fog up with coolant condensation. I only lose water in A/C drain if I turn it on defrost. What could be the problem?

A: Your heater core is leaking.