Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 1/30/2005

Question
I am not sure if you are the person to ask, but there isn't anyone in the chrysler section.  I actually have 2 questions.  The first is why don't my brakes seem to work on cold days, until the car is really warm.  It seem like the brakes don't catch and it feels like I am driving a train. What is the problem?  The second, is what would cause my headlights on my car to not work anymore.  They are supposed to come on automatically but now they won't come on at all, although the parking lights do.  

Answer
I do not know anything about 99 Chryslers so the answer I give you is generic.
In regards to your brakes not working cold, I would test your brake booster. You should have vaccuum at the hose running from the engine to the booster, when the engine is running. To test the booster, follow these directions:
1) With the engine OFF, pump the brake pedal several times to check that there is no change in the pedal reserve distance.
2) Hold the pedal down while you start the engine. The pedal should go down slightly.
3) let the engine idle for a few minutes, then shut it off. Slowly pump the pedal several times. If the pedal goes down far, then comes up as you slowly pump the brakes, the booster is air tight.
4) Start the engine. depress the brake pedal and hold it down. Shut off the engine. The pedal should not move for 30 seconds.
If any of the above tests fail, replace the booster.
As for the headlights, I would check the fuse that controls that circuit. You could also find a wiring diagram and trace the circuit for opens, shorts or bad switches or components. If you are not versed in electrical circuits, bring it to a technician.
Good luck.
Kevin