Anyone help me with my Jeep problem before the mechanic sees it?
(2010-11-06 02:05:08) 1. Says: I have an 04 wrangler (TJ). A few weeks ago, the cruise control stopped working. I didn't think too much of it. At the time I didn't use the heater or the air, but now that winter is getting closer I turned the heat on. well no matter where I put it, air or heat, feet or torso, high or low, it all comes out the defrost vents.It also runs hot; I can smell it when I stop. I did find the hose connecting to the overflow was leaking, so I fixed that. Now it seems to be running hot again although I haven't opened it to look again. the gages aren't hot, I can just smell the water/coolant.
anyway I have looked this up online, and a lot of sites are saying there is a possible vacuum leak. this would cause both the venting problem and the cruise control. I talked to a mechanic today because I need to get smogged and he said he has never heard of the vacuum system causing problems like this. Oh and I have a very dirty air filter, I need to get off my butt and clean it.
I am NOT saying that the mechanic will screw me, but let's be realistic. I am a woman and my past experience alone tells me that he might. I do know some about my jeep, I have worked on it before and frankly I am not afraid to get my hands dirty. If it is a vacuum leak though, I would like to know where to start checking the hoses or whatever. I just wonder if I am barking up the wrong tree with the vacuum system or if it could be something else.
Any help?2. Says: The Vacuum lines that control the defroster door and vent systems and the cruise control could both be from the same source. There are many many vacuum lines some are ported vacuum and some are non ported meaning they are controlled by the engine vacuum before or after the throttle. There are also vacuum storage canisters and check valves to store vacuum for use when the engine is not actively creating a vacuum. These are also used for things like trunk and door locks on some vehicles. Back to your problem(s). look around under the hood especially around the firewall and see if there are loose lines. also try listening under the dash area when the engine is idle and try to hear a leak near vent controls. That area is a real bear to fix due to cramped conditions. some vacuum actuators can be repaired but replace is easier. The hot smell could be a coolant leak and it could also just be the remnants of antifreeze that was spilt still smelling. just try washing the residue off. Definitely change the air filter before trying to smog it. enjoy.3. Says: Sounds like you have a vacuum leak. It also sounds like you need to be a little more proactive on the Preventive Maintenance on your Jeep. Just saying, you be the judge. The Dealership may be your best bet, getting a good diagnoses on your problem will be the biggest headache. Good Luck4. Says: i think your motor is going out you part of your problem maybe the computer and your thermostate5. Says: Your best bet is to take it to a jeep dealership to have it worked on and not Johnny's shadetree. He might be cheaper by the hour but if it takes him 4 times as long to locate and fix the problem then you will pay twice as much. Also I'm factory certified on Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge and I know of no vehicles that use vacuum to operate doors or locks.6. Says: the heater core may be bad, and have a friend or someone rev the engine, and put your hand behind the exhaust tip, if your hand is full of oil, and your smelling coolant...then theres a chance you may have a blown head gasket. and with the cruise, it might just be a fuse. cruise control is a luxury that tends not to work. and there is not really a way to check for a vacuum leak without hooking up a smoke machine. Tag: Anyone help me with my Jeep problem before the mechanic sees it?