Q. I have a 1989 Ford Escort and the “door ajar” light is on, which makes the shoulder belt not work. Also, I recently had brakes and wheel bearings replaced on my Ford Ranger. When I was looking at the truck, I noticed the left front splashguard was missing. I went back to the shop, and they said they would replace it. How important is this part and what is wrong with my Escort?

A. The splashguard should be replaced. If it weren’t important, the manufacturer wouldn’t have put it on when the truck was built. The splashguard helps divert water and keeps mud and dirt from building up on the rotor and caliper. It was most likely left off when the wheel bearing was replaced. The Escort has automatic seat belts. You may need to replace the courtesy-lamp switch on the driver’s door. The automatic seatbelt mechanism won’t work unless the door is completely closed. If the switch isn’t working, the seat belt won’t work.

Q. I am thinking about buying a used car, but I don’t trust car dealers. How do I know if the car is really the year they tell me it is?

A. Over the years, used car salesmen have not had the best reputation, but I believe their reputation and the service they provide has improved. Thanks to the Internet, consumers are more educated and have more access to information than ever. Even if you believe you know it all, anytime you consider buying a vehicle, you should carefully scrutinize the paperwork. The title will tell you the year and specific model of the vehicle you are considering. In addition, reviewing the paperwork will identify any issues about financing and warranty. If you have any questions about a potential vehicle purchase, don’t sign anything until your questions are answered.

Q. I am concerned about some recent information I heard about the Chevrolet Impala and it being recalled due to a fire hazard. My 70-year-old mother drives a 1999 Impala, and I am concerned about what she should do about her car. Can you let me know what the scoop is on this fire hazard with Impalas; what does one do if their car is deemed to have a fire hazard?

A. I am not aware of a recall for a possible fire hazard on the 1999 Chevrolet. There is a recent recall on the 2000 Impala and several other General Motors cars that involve a possible fire hazard. In this incidence, there could be a fire if the car was involved in a collision. Any time a car is involved in a recall, the owner should take the vehicle to the dealer and have it repaired. The sad truth is most consumers ignore recalls. To see if your vehicle was recalled, go to www.safercar.gov.

Q. I hate the idea of buying a car with a timing belt. Why do manufacturers use timing belts rather than timing chains that have been so dependable for so many years?

A. Timing belts are typically used on engines that have overhead camshaft arrangements. In this case, a longer timing chain would be noisier and would allow less accurate opening and closing of the valve. The timing belt actually improves/maintains engine efficiency.

Q. I have a 2002 Pontiac with well over 100,000 miles on it. I have had the struts, bearings and tie-rod ends replaced. The problem is there is a “clunk” sound in the steering wheel. The mechanic said he would have to explore and search to find the problem, and it would be costly. Do you know of a common problem with this car?

A. On www.alldata.com, a technical service bulletin describes the clunking noise. Have your repair shop reference TSB number 06-02-35-010. The repair involves replacing the intermediate steering shaft.