This weekly Q&A session answers your questions about cars and trucks. This week explores a 2001 Dodge Neon with a soft brake pedal and a 1995 Nissan Pathfinder that won't start at times..
Question: 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
Hi Vincent,
Seems like I read an article you wrote concerning a 1995 Nissan Pathfinder that did not start but lit up when the key was turned; "Radio Controlled Pathfinder". I was concluding the same things as mine has now done this. Occasionally it would start then not start, just a turn of the key and the dummy lights kicked on. My fuse popped on the security light and I replaced it, now my security light just blinks until I turn the key.
On top of that the shifter will not engage to neutral or any other gear (locked) and the steering wheel does not lock at all now.
I hear all the clicks and relays firing in the engine but no turning and no loss of power. Did you resolve your problem? How and what other recommendations might you have on this?
Thanks a bunch,
Ric Haycook
Answer:
Unless the original questioner writes back with the final solution to the problem there is no way to know if the diagnosis made was the correct one.
Considering the symptoms you describe there is a good chance you might have a bad ignition switch. If the steering wheel remains locked then the ignition lock cylinder is not releasing it. Also the ignition switch, which mounts on the ignition lock cylinder, sends power to the starter to engage. There is a black/purple wire at the strter. Unplug that wire and have someone hold the key in the START position. Checking with a test light or voltmeter, there should be power at that wire. If there is the starter itself is bad.
If not, then you have either a bad ignition switch, a broken wire or, depending on if it's a manual or automatic transmission, a bad Neutral Safety Switch (NSS) or Clutch Interlock Relay (CIR). Bad CIR's are common but that would not explain the steering wheel unlocking.
Question: 2001 Dodge Neon
I have a 2001 Dodge Neon, no ABS. I changed the front calipers and the master cylinder and I have bled it in the correct order and I am still having a very soft brake pedal. Is there anything that you can tell me in terms of advice that can help me?
Your response is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely yours,
Slavik
Answer:
There are usually two things that will cause a soft brake pedal; bad calipers or a bad brake master cylinder. And since you replaced the calipers that narrows the choices down by half. It is not uncommon for a brake master cylinder to go bad after brake work.
That’s all for this week. Feel free to browse the archives for past topics. And, as always, if you are stuck and need an immediate answer you can always call Vince on the phone.
