Paul Brand

Home
Bios

Paul Brand

Columnist | Cars

Phone:

Email: paulbrand@startribune.com

Paul Brand writes about autos for the Star Tribune.

Brand rehabilitation: Yes we can

A surprising number of companies spend some time in the image rehab clinic.

Updated: April 11, 2010, - 03:19 PM

After 8 years, don't wait for things to break

Q I bought my 2002 Buick LeSabre new, and it's probably the best car I've ever owned. It now has more than 100,000 miles on it, and I plan to keep it and use it as my main car. Should I start replacing things like spark plugs, spark plug wires or shocks? All are original; nothing has been changed. I've always lived by "if it ain't broke, don't fix it."

Updated: April 07, 2010, - 05:01 PM

Keep your car from feeling run-down

Q Last fall we purchased a 2008 Lexus ES 350. During winter we drove our older car and used the Lexus infrequently. On multiple occasions we found the battery in the Lexus dead after sitting 15 to 18 days. The dealer checked the electrical system current draw and found it normal. The dealer indicates the car must be used at least every 10 to 14 days to keep the battery charged. Is the dealer correct?

Updated: March 31, 2010, - 03:57 PM

The shift lock won't let Camry out of its grip

Q I have a '95 Toyota Camry that I have just brought out of storage. It has low mileage, and I'm going to put it back into use. Here is the problem: The floor-mounted gear selector will not shift out of park. I have gone over all the connections. Even with the key on and a foot on the brake, the gears are locked for some reason.

Updated: March 24, 2010, - 05:29 PM

Air-bag light isn't one that you can ignore

Q We drive a 2001 Dodge Ram with the 5.8-liter engine and 100,000 miles. Three weeks ago we noticed a...

Updated: March 18, 2010, - 03:50 PM

Scary problem (not that one) with '99 Camry

Q I have experienced something frightening with my '99 Camry. When I turn at an intersection, I feel the power steering cutting out, and I have to hang on to the steering wheel to complete the turn. The garage mechanic says there's plenty of fluid and cannot find any reason for this. It doesn't always happen; it's when I first start out in the morning after it's been out all night in our subzero temperatures.

Updated: March 10, 2010, - 05:16 PM

Older cars lose some oil; it's up to you to check

Q My husband drives a 1997 Saturn SL2. We have the oil changed on a regular basis, but the past few times when they do the oil change, the oil level is so low they can't read it on the dipstick. What could be wrong with it?

Updated: March 03, 2010, - 04:44 PM

Rubbing noise when braking can be normal

Q The brakes on my 2003 Ford Expedition make a rubbing or grabbing noise when I use them. The dealer found nothing wrong. Does this sound like a problem?

Updated: February 24, 2010, - 11:19 PM

Red or green? In antifreeze, it's your choice

Q I have a '97 Chevy pickup with a 5.7-liter engine and less than 97,000 miles. The garage replaced the red coolant with the green antifreeze. The manual says to use red. The garage said no harm will be done. Should I have them drain and replace with the red stuff -- or not worry about it?

Updated: February 17, 2010, - 04:13 PM

Hard braking gives driver bad vibes

Q I have a 2006 Honda Odyssey with 90,000 miles. Under hard braking above 50 miles per hour, the car shakes. Below 50 mph, hard braking seems normal with no shaking. Actual stopping performance doesn't seem affected. Your best guess would help me in dealing with the dealer or brake repair shop.

Updated: February 10, 2010, - 04:05 PM