Why does it take so long for my car to fill with gas?
A: The first thing to do is look for an obstruction in the fill pipe. It the pipe is undamaged, then the next step is to inspect the evaporative emission system.
The gas tank has a vent as part of the evaporative system that allows gas fumes to be burned during combustion. If the vent valve is clogged, the tank will fill very slowly. This can be caused by a faulty vent valve, dirt and mud buildup or even spider webs.
Q: I have a 2023 Dodge Charger SXT RWD with original equipment and wheels. The tires are 17-by-7-inch wheels with Michelin Energy Saver P215/65R17 tires. I will be changing to the factory optional on SXT trim, 20-by-8-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 P245/45R20 tires.
I have inquired via email to the service departments of two Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealers but have not received a response. With the tire size change, would you know of any size codes, module or software updates that would be required to have the speedometer, odometer and transmission shifting be accurate and work properly? Is there a special tool for this?
A: The new tire/wheel combination is about a half inch larger. As an example, with the speedometer reading 65 miles per hour, your car will actually be traveling at 66.6 miles per hour.
I have an Innova tablet scan tool. I would describe this tool as a serious DIY, almost pro-level scan tool that has the capability to change tire sizes.
Q: I am wondering about your overall opinion on the Chrysler Voyager minivan. I am searching for the basic minivan to get from point A to point B. I do not need the luxury of the Pacifica. There is not much to choose from with minivans these days.
A: The Chrysler Pacifica and Chrysler Voyager are essentially the same. The Voyager was produced more for fleet use, although I understand it is coming back to the retail market for 2025. My bigger concern is that the company itself seemed to be struggling with declining sales and profits in 2024. The company has taken action to address these challenges, so time will tell.
If I were to rate minivans, I would put them in this order: Toyota Sienna, Kia Carnival, Honda Odyssey and the Pacifica/Voyager.
Q: One of my friends has a 2015 Nissan Altima. When he tries to turn on the car, the dashboard shows "key not detected." Do you have any suggestions on what could be wrong and how to fix this?
A: I would start with replacing the battery in the remote fob.
If that doesn't work, try the spare fob if one is available. If the second fob works, the first fob may need programming.
After that, the next step is proper diagnosis of the problem. This includes testing the receiver and possible antenna issues.
Q: I have owned a 2001 BMW M Roadster since 2011. I am the third owner, and it only has 28,000 miles. I have all the service records, and it has been maintained steadily throughout its life. The DSC (traction control) and ABS warning lights are on. The diagnostics revealed a faulty steering phase angle sensor. It has been replaced, but that did not resolve the problem. I was advised that this particular DSC electronic module has gone bad and needs to be replaced as well. My mechanic (whom I have used for years to service this car as well as my daily drivers) is having difficulty locating this part. It is no longer available from BMW, and reconditioned ones are not readily available. Any suggestions?
A: Short of buying a used part on eBay motors (there seems to be several), perhaps try rebuilding the faulty part. Readers have told me they've had good luck with UpFix. (upfix.com). From talking to the technicians at Upfix, they seem to be able to fix any electronics.
Q: I have heard that you offer (and know of places that offer) inexpensive VIN etching for automobiles. Please let me know how and where I can have that done for my cars, and if it's worth it.
A: The theory behind VIN etching is that if the vehicle identification number is permanently engraved on a car's windows, it may deter thieves from stealing your car. Studies are mixed on whether it actually works. You could try your local police departments. I know in the past I have seen some perform this as a community service with minimal cost. I have also seen DIY kits for $20 online.
John Paul is the AAA Northeast Car Doctor. He has more than 40 years of experience in the automobile industry and is an ASE-Certified Master Technician. Write to John Paul, The Car Doctor, at 110 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904. Or email jpaul@aaanortheast.com and put 'Car Doctor' in the subject field. Follow him on X @johnfpaul or on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Why does it take so long for my car to fill with gas? | Car Doctor
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Chrysler CEO discusses future of brand as it approaches 100th birthday Show Caption Hide Caption Stellantis: The automaker's history, legacy Explore the history of Stellantis, the automotive giant formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. Chrysler was incorporated on June 6, 1925. Chrysler's future has been in question, but the brand CEO says new vehicles are on the way. Chris Feuell has heard speculation about the future of Chrysler before. The CEO of the brand that is on the edge of its 100th anniversary has been asked about this periodically since she took the helm in 2021. Chrysler, which once stood on its own as a member of the Detroit Three, is one of numerous brands within Stellantis. Feuell's response to that speculation is forward-looking even as it acknowledges a reality. 'The question about Chrysler's future and viability is one that seems to come up in various news articles on a weekly basis,' she said. 'That has not come up once in my conversations with Antonio or others in the leadership team. I understand the curiosity regarding: Can a company really sustain 14 brands? It's lot of mouths to feed, and that is true, but for Chrysler there is a belief in our positioning strategy.' 'Antonio' is Antonio Filosa, the newly named Stellantis CEO, who was still chief operating officer for the Americas and chief quality officer at the company when Feuell spoke to the Free Press on May 23. Will the Chrysler 300 inspire a new vehicle? Chrysler's legacy is real, but the brand name today is limited to minivans, a segment that the company started with the 1984 model year. Feuell, who noted a lack of investment in the brand for two decades, reiterated that Chrysler will launch a crossover vehicle, but that's now set for 2027 (it's expected to be shown in 2026) rather than this year. The Pacifica minivan is also due for a refresh early next year. A vehicle 'inspired by' the futuristic-looking Halcyon concept car, unveiled early last year, is planned, although Feuell didn't offer a date. The vehicle would be an answer to the customers and dealers who want to see a return of the discontinued 300 sedan, but it's not clear that's what the vehicle would be called. 'I believe the car segment is ripe for growth and resurgence,' Feuell said. She described a 'high level of confidence in our road map and ability to launch these products.' Plans for the entire portfolio to go all electric have been scrapped in favor of 'multienergy' options. The crossover will launch as a hybrid with the capability to go electric, she said. But Chrysler's automotive heritage also warrants attention, according to Feuell. In case you missed it: Ford has some pretty famous cars stored in a new fleet. Here's a peek at some 'There are very few brands or companies that have had the strength or horsepower to last 100 years,' she said. In the months ahead, a number of celebrations are planned for the Chrysler 100th, including an event with journalists at Belle Isle that promises to highlight more than 20 historic Chrysler concept and production vehicles. And significantly for Chrysler fans, the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals in Pennsylvania July 11-13 is expected to showcase a narrated parade of Chrysler-related vehicles, memorabilia, including Walter P. Chrysler's toolbox, and meet-and-greets with Frank Rhodes, who is Chrysler's great-grandson, and other automotive notables. Rhodes has long been an advocate for preserving the brand and boosting its profile. He was concerned about its future prior to the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Peugeot maker PSA Group that created Stellantis in 2021, and he's remained so. A commitment from Filosa He caused a stir last year with a proposal to save Chrysler and Dodge with U.S. ownership, prompting a statement of commitment from the company. More recently, following a Free Press article by auto reviewer Mark Phelan suggesting the next Stellantis CEO consider axing Chrysler, Rhodes reached out to express his concerns to Filosa. Rhodes was pleased to share that the response he received from Filosa noted that 'Chris and I are just as committed to Chrysler's future as you are, and we have great plans in place to support Chrysler's future. Stay tuned!' Rhodes recalled what his grandmother, Bernice Chrysler Garbisch, told him before she died in 1979 that he should do what he can to 'keep the engine running.' It's a request he's tried to honor. Rhodes, a furniture-maker in Maryland, has long argued that Chrysler should be able to thrive with the right investment and vehicle offerings. It was overshadowed, for instance, when Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, then-led by Sergio Marchionne, elevated brands like Alfa Romeo and Fiat instead. Rhodes said he understands the leaders of what by then had become an international company had that right, but 'Chrysler's been here a long time' even though it's 'burned through' a few of its 'nine lives.' Those would probably include a 2008 bankruptcy and 1979 government bailout. But Chrysler also has quite a heritage from its incorporation "from the assets of the Maxwell Motor Co." on June 6, 1925. Among its innovations and vehicles, the company highlighted a few this year ahead of the New York International Auto Show, including: 1924 Chrysler Six, 'a light, powerful vehicle equipped with a groundbreaking L-head six-cylinder engine and four-wheel hydraulic brakes — an uncommon feature in the 1920s.' 1934 Chrysler Airflow, 'the first production vehicle designed in a wind tunnel, in a new facility built by Chrysler at its Highland Park, Michigan, headquarters. Wind tunnel testing inspired the Airflow's modified teardrop shape and resulted in a vehicle that represented future design and engineering advances.' The Hemi engine, which dates to 1951 and the Chrysler Firepower V-8. The Chrysler 300 in 1955 was 'one of the first muscle cars … The hardtop contained a 300-horsepower HEMI V-8, with solid valve lifters and dual four-barrel carburetors, the most powerful full-size car in the world.' Chrysler's innovations over the years are the kinds of things that Bill Adams Jr., president of the WPC Club (named for Walter P. Chrysler) noted when he was asked about the company's significance. He pointed to Chrysler's role as an engineering company focused on innovation. Chrysler has faced many odds over the years. In response, 'they've made bold moves in the industry, and it has worked out for them,' Adams said, suggesting that Chrysler is once again at such a juncture. The WPC Club has about 4,000 members/enthusiasts. Adams, who's based in Oakdale, California, called it a social club interested in preserving the history of the many brands associated with Chrysler over the years. "If Chrysler doesn't make it, the legacy's going to be left to us enthusiasts to keep it alive," he said. Contact Eric D. Lawrence: elawrence@ Become a subscriber. Submit a letter to the editor at
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'Antonio' is Antonio Filosa, the newly named Stellantis CEO, who was still chief operating officer for the Americas and chief quality officer at the company when Feuell spoke to the Free Press on May 23. Chrysler's legacy is real, but the brand name today is limited to minivans, a segment that the company started with the 1984 model year. Feuell, who noted a lack of investment in the brand for two decades, reiterated that Chrysler will launch a crossover vehicle, but that's now set for 2027 (it's expected to be shown in 2026) rather than this year. The Pacifica minivan is also due for a refresh early next year. A vehicle 'inspired by' the futuristic-looking Halcyon concept car, unveiled early last year, is planned, although Feuell didn't offer a date. The vehicle would be an answer to the customers and dealers who want to see a return of the discontinued 300 sedan, but it's not clear that's what the vehicle would be called. 'I believe the car segment is ripe for growth and resurgence,' Feuell said. She described a 'high level of confidence in our road map and ability to launch these products.' Plans for the entire portfolio to go all electric have been scrapped in favor of 'multienergy' options. The crossover will launch as a hybrid with the capability to go electric, she said. But Chrysler's automotive heritage also warrants attention, according to Feuell. In case you missed it: Ford has some pretty famous cars stored in a new fleet. Here's a peek at some 'There are very few brands or companies that have had the strength or horsepower to last 100 years,' she said. In the months ahead, a number of celebrations are planned for the Chrysler 100th, including an event with journalists at Belle Isle that promises to highlight more than 20 historic Chrysler concept and production vehicles. And significantly for Chrysler fans, the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals in Pennsylvania July 11-13 is expected to showcase a narrated parade of Chrysler-related vehicles, memorabilia, including Walter P. Chrysler's toolbox, and meet-and-greets with Frank Rhodes, who is Chrysler's great-grandson, and other automotive notables. Rhodes has long been an advocate for preserving the brand and boosting its profile. He was concerned about its future prior to the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Peugeot maker PSA Group that created Stellantis in 2021, and he's remained so. He caused a stir last year with a proposal to save Chrysler and Dodge with U.S. ownership, prompting a statement of commitment from the company. More recently, following a Free Press article by auto reviewer Mark Phelan suggesting the next Stellantis CEO consider axing Chrysler, Rhodes reached out to express his concerns to Filosa. Rhodes was pleased to share that the response he received from Filosa noted that 'Chris and I are just as committed to Chrysler's future as you are, and we have great plans in place to support Chrysler's future. Stay tuned!' Rhodes recalled what his grandmother, Bernice Chrysler Garbisch, told him before she died in 1979 that he should do what he can to 'keep the engine running.' It's a request he's tried to honor. Rhodes, a furniture-maker in Maryland, has long argued that Chrysler should be able to thrive with the right investment and vehicle offerings. It was overshadowed, for instance, when Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, then-led by Sergio Marchionne, elevated brands like Alfa Romeo and Fiat instead. Rhodes said he understands the leaders of what by then had become an international company had that right, but 'Chrysler's been here a long time' even though it's 'burned through' a few of its 'nine lives.' Those would probably include a 2008 bankruptcy and 1979 government bailout. But Chrysler also has quite a heritage from its incorporation "from the assets of the Maxwell Motor Co." on June 6, 1925. Among its innovations and vehicles, the company highlighted a few this year ahead of the New York International Auto Show, including: 1924 Chrysler Six, 'a light, powerful vehicle equipped with a groundbreaking L-head six-cylinder engine and four-wheel hydraulic brakes — an uncommon feature in the 1920s.' 1934 Chrysler Airflow, 'the first production vehicle designed in a wind tunnel, in a new facility built by Chrysler at its Highland Park, Michigan, headquarters. Wind tunnel testing inspired the Airflow's modified teardrop shape and resulted in a vehicle that represented future design and engineering advances.' The Hemi engine, which dates to 1951 and the Chrysler Firepower V-8. The Chrysler 300 in 1955 was 'one of the first muscle cars … The hardtop contained a 300-horsepower HEMI V-8, with solid valve lifters and dual four-barrel carburetors, the most powerful full-size car in the world.' Chrysler's innovations over the years are the kinds of things that Bill Adams Jr., president of the WPC Club (named for Walter P. Chrysler) noted when he was asked about the company's significance. He pointed to Chrysler's role as an engineering company focused on innovation. Chrysler has faced many odds over the years. In response, 'they've made bold moves in the industry, and it has worked out for them,' Adams said, suggesting that Chrysler is once again at such a juncture. The WPC Club has about 4,000 members/enthusiasts. Adams, who's based in Oakdale, California, called it a social club interested in preserving the history of the many brands associated with Chrysler over the years. "If Chrysler doesn't make it, the legacy's going to be left to us enthusiasts to keep it alive," he said. Contact Eric D. Lawrence: elawrence@ Become a subscriber. Submit a letter to the editor at This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Chrysler CEO discusses future of brand as it approaches 100th birthday Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
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Chris Feuell has heard speculation about the future of Chrysler before. The CEO of the brand that is on the edge of its 100th anniversary has been asked about this periodically since she took the helm in 2021. Chrysler, which once stood on its own as a member of the Detroit Three, is one of numerous brands within Stellantis. Feuell's response to that speculation is forward-looking even as it acknowledges a reality. 'The question about Chrysler's future and viability is one that seems to come up in various news articles on a weekly basis,' she said. 'That has not come up once in my conversations with Antonio or others in the leadership team. I understand the curiosity regarding: Can a company really sustain 14 brands? It's lot of mouths to feed, and that is true, but for Chrysler there is a belief in our positioning strategy.' 'Antonio' is Antonio Filosa, the newly named Stellantis CEO, who was still chief operating officer for the Americas and chief quality officer at the company when Feuell spoke to the Free Press on May 23. Chrysler's legacy is real, but the brand name today is limited to minivans, a segment that the company started with the 1984 model year. Feuell, who noted a lack of investment in the brand for two decades, reiterated that Chrysler will launch a crossover vehicle, but that's now set for 2027 (it's expected to be shown in 2026) rather than this year. The Pacifica minivan is also due for a refresh early next year. A vehicle 'inspired by' the futuristic-looking Halcyon concept car, unveiled early last year, is planned, although Feuell didn't offer a date. The vehicle would be an answer to the customers and dealers who want to see a return of the discontinued 300 sedan, but it's not clear that's what the vehicle would be called. 'I believe the car segment is ripe for growth and resurgence,' Feuell said. She described a 'high level of confidence in our road map and ability to launch these products.' Plans for the entire portfolio to go all electric have been scrapped in favor of 'multienergy' options. The crossover will launch as a hybrid with the capability to go electric, she said. But Chrysler's automotive heritage also warrants attention, according to Feuell. In case you missed it: Ford has some pretty famous cars stored in a new fleet. Here's a peek at some 'There are very few brands or companies that have had the strength or horsepower to last 100 years,' she said. In the months ahead, a number of celebrations are planned for the Chrysler 100th, including an event with journalists at Belle Isle that promises to highlight more than 20 historic Chrysler concept and production vehicles. And significantly for Chrysler fans, the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals in Pennsylvania July 11-13 is expected to showcase a narrated parade of Chrysler-related vehicles, memorabilia, including Walter P. Chrysler's toolbox, and meet-and-greets with Frank Rhodes, who is Chrysler's great-grandson, and other automotive notables. Rhodes has long been an advocate for preserving the brand and boosting its profile. He was concerned about its future prior to the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Peugeot maker PSA Group that created Stellantis in 2021, and he's remained so. He caused a stir last year with a proposal to save Chrysler and Dodge with U.S. ownership, prompting a statement of commitment from the company. More recently, following a Free Press article by auto reviewer Mark Phelan suggesting the next Stellantis CEO consider axing Chrysler, Rhodes reached out to express his concerns to Filosa. Rhodes was pleased to share that the response he received from Filosa noted that 'Chris and I are just as committed to Chrysler's future as you are, and we have great plans in place to support Chrysler's future. Stay tuned!' Rhodes recalled what his grandmother, Bernice Chrysler Garbisch, told him before she died in 1979 that he should do what he can to 'keep the engine running.' It's a request he's tried to honor. Rhodes, a furniture-maker in Maryland, has long argued that Chrysler should be able to thrive with the right investment and vehicle offerings. It was overshadowed, for instance, when Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, then-led by Sergio Marchionne, elevated brands like Alfa Romeo and Fiat instead. Rhodes said he understands the leaders of what by then had become an international company had that right, but 'Chrysler's been here a long time' even though it's 'burned through' a few of its 'nine lives.' Those would probably include a 2008 bankruptcy and 1979 government bailout. But Chrysler also has quite a heritage from its incorporation "from the assets of the Maxwell Motor Co." on June 6, 1925. Among its innovations and vehicles, the company highlighted a few this year ahead of the New York International Auto Show, including: 1924 Chrysler Six, 'a light, powerful vehicle equipped with a groundbreaking L-head six-cylinder engine and four-wheel hydraulic brakes — an uncommon feature in the 1920s.' 1934 Chrysler Airflow, 'the first production vehicle designed in a wind tunnel, in a new facility built by Chrysler at its Highland Park, Michigan, headquarters. Wind tunnel testing inspired the Airflow's modified teardrop shape and resulted in a vehicle that represented future design and engineering advances.' The Hemi engine, which dates to 1951 and the Chrysler Firepower V-8. The Chrysler 300 in 1955 was 'one of the first muscle cars … The hardtop contained a 300-horsepower HEMI V-8, with solid valve lifters and dual four-barrel carburetors, the most powerful full-size car in the world.' Chrysler's innovations over the years are the kinds of things that Bill Adams Jr., president of the WPC Club (named for Walter P. Chrysler) noted when he was asked about the company's significance. He pointed to Chrysler's role as an engineering company focused on innovation. Chrysler has faced many odds over the years. In response, 'they've made bold moves in the industry, and it has worked out for them,' Adams said, suggesting that Chrysler is once again at such a juncture. The WPC Club has about 4,000 members/enthusiasts. Adams, who's based in Oakdale, California, called it a social club interested in preserving the history of the many brands associated with Chrysler over the years. "If Chrysler doesn't make it, the legacy's going to be left to us enthusiasts to keep it alive," he said. Contact Eric D. Lawrence: elawrence@ Become a subscriber. Submit a letter to the editor at This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Chrysler CEO discusses future of brand as it approaches 100th birthday Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
