Motormouth: Don’t guess about a leak

Q: I recently took my 2018 Cadillac XT5 in for an oil change and was told that my radiator was about a quart low of coolant. The service adviser said I need to install a new radiator because it must be leaking. Do I really need to replace the radiator at a cost of $1,900? The temp gauge shows the readings in the normal range. Is there another way to diagnose whether I have a leaky radiator?

A: He said “It must be leaking”? So, he’s not sure? Yes, there are ways to diagnose a leak. Technicians have tools to pressurize the cooling system and check. They shouldn’t have to guess.

Q: I own a 2016 Honda Odyssey with 95,000 miles. According to the manual’s service recommendations, I’m coming upon an expensive replacement job for the timing belt. I’m aware of the consequences of delaying this, but I would like your opinion on how mandatory it really is to replace at 100,000?

A: Wouldn’t it be great if we could live beyond 100? The odds are against it. Timing belts may last over 100,000 miles, but much beyond that is a crap shoot. Some people roll the dice and win, many more lose. If the belt breaks, your engine becomes a good boat anchor. So yes, I suggest you replace the timing belt on time.

Q: I have a 2018 Subaru Forester. The cabin noise is quite loud at speeds above 40 or so. The internet has multiple videos on how to dampen noise in a car cabin. Some methods are beyond anything I could do myself. Do you have any suggestions?

A: Yes. Sound deadening pads are available in the aftermarket. I have had good luck with a product from 3M. They are thin and easily placed under carpets and in the trunk/rear storage area.

Q: What causes the batteries to deteriorate? Is it just the years passing, or is it the number of times you charge the vehicle? I bought my 2019 car when it was three years old. When I bought it, it had been driven for only 1,800 miles. Will the very low mileage that the previous owner accumulated over the first three years mean that my batteries will last longer?

A: Batteries are designed to be used regularly. If the car sits for long periods, the battery life is shortened.

Bob Weber is a writer, mechanic and ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician. His writing has appeared in automotive trade publications, Consumer Guide and Consumers Digest. Send automotive questions along with name and town to motormouth.tribune@gmail.com.