Paul Brand

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Paul Brand

Columnist | Cars

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Email: paulbrand@startribune.com

Paul Brand writes about autos for the Star Tribune.

Cold-start engine clicking is a nuisance, not a disaster

Is it piston slap, valve train noise or some other problem?

Updated: November 04, 2011, - 04:14 PM

Losing your air conditioning? Find the leak and get it fixed

With a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan that has lost its air-conditioning cooling capacity, can it wait until next summer to recharge and check it again? Or is leaving the system discharged for so long bad for the air conditioning?

Updated: October 28, 2011, - 04:03 PM

Brand: Humming noise on road: Is it the tires or the wheels?

A Have the tires rebalanced and rotated once again, making sure the front tires end up on the rear of the vehicle. If this has an effect on the humming noise, the problem is with the tires.

Updated: October 21, 2011, - 03:51 PM

Bad circuit can cause battery to keep leaking electrons

A I'd be looking for electrons. Somehow, while the vehicle is parked, electrons are escaping from the battery. When enough of 'em get away, well, the few remaining can't carry the load of starting the car.

Updated: October 14, 2011, - 03:56 PM

Brand: Van's slipping transmission could be more than old fluid

The transmission fluid is bright in color, has no unusual odor, and is up to the full level. The instrument panel does not indicate any failure codes. I suspect the problem existed before I bought the van at 68,000 miles. At the time of purchase an independent mechanic suggested the transmission fluid be changed, and I assume the dealer did so. What do you think?

Updated: October 07, 2011, - 04:34 PM