Q: I have a two-decade-old Toyota Corolla that has been making a random noise when braking that sounds/feels like the anti-locking brake system kicking in but on dry surfaces. I had a brake shop check the brakes and they couldn't find anything wrong.

J.B., Chicago

A: I have a hunch that the problem is the ABS (anti-lock brake system) controller. Let’s hope not because they ain’t cheap.

Q: I got a check engine light on my 2016 Ford Edge for my catalytic converter. It only has 65,000 miles on it. I tried a fuel additive, followed directions and the check engine light went off after a couple of days but went back on three days later. Should I try it again? My mechanic quoted $1,700 for a new catalytic converter.

T.M., Elmhurst, Illinois

A: The EPA catalytic converter warranty covers emission control components for a minimum of 5 to 8 years or 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Too bad; you missed it. I wouldn’t continue to use an additive. Your car won’t pass the emissions inspection if there is a stored trouble code due to a bad cat. Bite the bullet. Your mechanic’s price is typical.

Q: There used to be an order form in the back of your owner's manual to send for a car-specific service manual. I believe the company was Helm. Are service manuals still available?

A: Service manuals are available – online. Helm is still a reliable source: helminc.com.

M.M., Palos Park, Illinois

Q: Thank you for your Motormouth columns! They are informative and entertaining -- the best combination.

Recently, you corresponded with a reader about the Fisker Ocean, which had solar panels on top, presumably to help keep its batteries charged. Powering a car with solar panels is extremely difficult technically. This is because sunlight is not concentrated enough to provide a significant fraction of the power needed. Another example is the Lightyear 0, which is also no longer in production. Its solar panels were supposed to produce enough power to add 70 kilometers of range per day in the summer. This might be enough to support short commutes or shopping.

We may never get to the point where a normal-sized car can power itself entirely with sunlight.

A.M., Colorado Springs, Colorado

A: Probably not, but I recall a 1987 competition that led to the Sunraycer, a solar-powered car created by a team that included GM, Hughes Aircraft and AeroVironment to build a very light-weight and ultra-low-wind-resistance vehicle. The car weighed in at 580 pounds — a lot lighter than either the Fisker or Lightyear vehicles. It used 8,800 solar cells that reportedly could generate about 1,500 watts under full sun. That’s typical wattage for an air fryer.

The Sunraycer experiment led GM to build the Impact electric car. (I always thought it was a bad name for an automobile.) It didn’t go far in the market.

Q: I purchased a 2009 Volvo C70 convertible in August 2008 and have driven it 35,100 miles. We spend almost 6 months a year in Arizona. My Volvo dealership recommended replacing the timing belt, tensioner and idler pulley in addition to the serpentine belt. Since the repair work would be very costly, my question is this: Regardless of the low mileage, do I need to make this repair investment?

R.S., Oak Brook, Illinois

A: Do you have proof of the car’s service history? If that stuff has been replaced recently, you’re probably OK. If not, don’t let your investment turn into a boat anchor. Get the work done.

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