Q: I have a 2009 Pontiac Vibe. I recently replaced the battery in the key fob. However, the key fob is not working yet because it needs to be reprogrammed. I downloaded instructions for reprogramming the fob from the Internet and have tried several times to reprogram it unsuccessfully. It seems like I am close as the locks click during the process. However, when I complete the process, the fob will not open or lock the doors. Can you direct me to finding the correct programming instructions?
— F.V., Chicago
A: If you have been following the instructions for reprogramming General Motors RKEs (remote keyless entries), those instructions could be the root of the problem. The Pontiac Vibe is actually a Toyota Matrix (Corolla) in GM clothing. Try searching for the Toyota instructions. Another option is to take your car to a Toyota shop or call your local locksmith.
Q: I saw the item in your column about a sagging headliner. Since this happens on mostly older vehicles, a very easy and economical (aka cheapskate) way to fix a sagging headliner is with “corkscrew” or “pigtail” tacks. I speak from experience of course.
— D.C., Chesterton, Ind.
A: Yep, we have seen such repairs. We have also seen bows of thin wood, double-faced tape and myriad other homegrown solutions. We have even seen the headliner simply ripped out.
More Top Picks Best Induction Ranges
Q: I drive a 2007 Mercedes E350 with 52K miles. Somehow, the front suspension has dropped and affected the camber setting, causing the front tires to wear out on the inside. The Mercedes dealer wants to install shims to prop up the front end for about $1,000. What do you think? What are my other options?
— F.Z., Los Angeles
A: The suspension may have sagged, but we doubt that it has actually dropped. Shims are a standard way of adjusting the steering and suspension to bring the vehicle into proper alignment. Your other options are to replace all of the steering and suspension components. That will cost lots more than $1,000.
Q: I have a problem with the battery going dead in my 2009 Saturn Vue XE with 37,454 miles. I had a new battery installed in May of this year, and after three months I started having the same problem. I took the vehicle to my auto repair shop and had an electrical draw test performed. The mechanic said the test showed a small draw and I may have a faulty BCM. He said he was unable to verify the source of the problem and that it may be the computer is not turning off whatever is drawing on the battery and that the computer might need to be replaced. My question is, does the computer need to be replaced or repaired, or can the source of the draw be corrected? Could it be that the low mileage is preventing the battery from being sufficiently charged?
— R.H., Olympia Fields, Ill.
A: If you only drive the car for a few miles on each trip, the battery may not be getting fully recharged. This is particularly true in the winter, when many electrical devices are being used. However, there could be another reason that the body control module (BCM) is drawing current. It may not be going to sleep if you have your key fob within its range. The lines of communication may be remaining open between the two, preventing the BCM from timing out. By the way, after shutdown, the BMC normally stays awake for a short period of time.
Send questions, along with name and town, to Motormouth, Rides, baiduhai, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Fifth Floor, Chicago IL 60611 or [email protected].