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John Paul, AAA Northeast’s Car Doctor, hears from a reader having issues with an SUV after getting it back from the body shop.
The Car Doctor hears from a reader having issues with an SUV after getting it back from the body shop. Honda
Q. My 2024 Honda CR‑V EX had a front-end collision a couple of months back and was brought to a body shop for repair. The shop replaced the front grille, front sensor, hood, and both headlamp assemblies, as well as repaired both front doors. After getting the car back, I started noticing very odd behavior. When the vehicle is cold (overnight or after a few hours), the interior lights do not turn on when I open any door (the setting is on “Door”). The headlights do not turn on automatically. Even though the car is unlocked, the hatch locks automatically, which was never the case before. Any thoughts on this? I’m hoping to resolve it soon. I’ve checked all the vehicle settings, and they are set the same as before.
A. Modern Hondas (and most new vehicles) require ADAS-advanced driver assistance system recalibration (camera, radar, body control module sync) after front-end repairs. It sounds like when the sensors were replaced, the car may have lost some of its programming. A technician with a scan tool needs to determine whether those items and features are being properly commanded on. For example, the auto-on headlights typically have a programming function that allows the feature to be enabled or disabled. I think the body shop needs to have its programming technician recheck the vehicle. As you pointed out, all the controls are in the proper settings, so these features should be working and restored to their pre-crash condition. Your next step should be to contact your insurance company, as they may need to open a supplemental claim.
Q. I purchased a 2025 Audi Q3 and love this SUV, but I am having problems with the windshield wipers. They work for a minute and then start dragging, no matter what setting I use. The Audi dealer where I purchased the car changed the blades, which did not solve the problem. Another Audi dealer’s service department suggested the windshield might not be clean, so they cleaned it, but the issue still persists. I cannot drive safely in the rain with this problem, and I think it may be mechanical. Can you suggest anything? I would really appreciate it.
A. The second dealer may be on to something. I recently used a window-cleaning product that repels water, and it caused the wipers to chatter. This can also happen after an automatic car wash where a spray wax is applied. I would try thoroughly cleaning the windshield using a mild abrasive like Bar Keepers Friend. Then follow up with Sprayway glass cleaner and 3M paper towels designed for glass. If there’s still no improvement after that, the wiper arms may need to be replaced.
Q. Last week, I had the transmission flushed on my 2014 Toyota Camry LE with over 169,000 miles. The last service was about two years ago. How often should I have this done, and what happens if I don’t? I understand the fluid should always be pink or purple.
A. Ideally, transmission fluid should be red or pink and smell like oil, not burnt toast. As the fluid ages, it breaks down and loses its ability to lubricate properly. Can you skip fluid changes? Yes, but doing so typically shortens the life of the transmission. Most transmission manufacturers (though not always vehicle manufacturers) recommend fluid changes every 60,000 miles, which for most drivers is about every five years. Rather than a full flush, many manufacturers including Toyota often recommend a drain-and-fill service. On higher-mileage vehicles, flushing can sometimes cause issues. If the transmission is operating normally, conservative maintenance in my opinion is best.
Q. The shade on the panoramic sunroof in my 2009 VW Jetta SportWagen was damaged. Replacement costs range from $800 to $1,400 depending on where I go. I am considering applying a light ceramic tint to the sunroof instead for heat reduction. I received a quote of $320 for the ceramic tint. What are your thoughts on using ceramic tint in place of the shade?
A. As an inexpensive test, I would try a static cling tint first to see how it works. You can buy a roll online for about $15. We use it often on rear windows to help protect children from heat. If the results are satisfactory, the higher-quality ceramic tint should provide even better heat reduction.
Q. I’ve been in the process of purchasing my first vehicle in a long time. I used to drive a 2015 Nissan Altima, and I’m looking to get either another sedan or an SUV. I want something reliable that will last for a long time. Do you have any suggestions or advice?
A. I’m in a similar situation and will soon be looking for a smaller or midsize SUV. Based on my road-testing of 2026 vehicles, I would recommend the Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson (great warranties and values), Toyota RAV4, and Honda CR‑V. The Mazda CX-5 has good reviews, but I have not evaluated the latest model. For sedans, the Toyota Camry would be my top choice.
John Paul is AAA Northeast’s Car Doctor. He has over 40 years of experience in the automotive business and is an ASE-certified master technician. E-mail your Car Doctor question to [email protected]. Listen to the Car Doctor Podcast on Apple Podcasts or other popular podcast sites.
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