Car Doctor: Old discs and oil leaks

Monday 30 August 2004 19:00 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Q. I have just bought a used car which is almost ten years old. I noticed an odd humming sound when I brake. However, the car still feels fine and this only seems to happen when the car is in gear.
J. Simpson, Swansea

Q. I have just bought a used car which is almost ten years old. I noticed an odd humming sound when I brake. However, the car still feels fine and this only seems to happen when the car is in gear.
J. Simpson, Swansea

A. We think that the discs and pads could be very old and are what some specialists describe as being "glazed" as two polished surfaces rub together. They believe it is best to replace both the discs and pads to be on the safe side.

Q. I've got an oil leak under my bonnet and I can see exactly where it is coming from, the oil filler cap. I like keeping my engine bay clean and this really bothers me. I went and bought a brand new one but the problem still persists.
M Fredericks, Derby

A. The camshaft cover into which the cap fits may be damaged. It could be cracked which means you will need a new one. Otherwise simply bending the tabs on the filler cap towards the rubber will help. The cap may become harder to remove but that is a small price to pay. Otherwise in order to make a tighter seal a small amount of crease can help keep oil at bay.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in