How To

Tips for getting stubborn bird droppings off of an SUV

John Paul, AAA Northeast's Car Doctor, answers a question from a reader frustrated with some cement-like droppings discovered on their Jeep.

The Car Doctor answers a question from a reader frustrated with some cement-like droppings discovered on their Jeep. Jeep

By John Paul

November 11, 2025

4 minutes to read

Q. My 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee has several stubborn bird droppings that defy my numerous efforts to remove them. Is there a product out there that you recommend that will remove the cement-like droppings? They’re on the side of the Jeep.

A. Having the droppings on the side of your Jeep makes it a little harder to remove. Generally, I suggest a solution of warm water and dish detergent soaked into a microfiber cloth and allowed to sit for about 15 minutes to soften the droppings. You could also try a mixture of baking soda and water to break down the droppings. If you have one, a handheld steamer can work wonders. I have a small battery powered steamer from WORX products that has removed some stubborn stuff. When all else fails or before any potential damage, consult a car detailer.

Q. I had my car parked for two weeks while on vacation. When I came back and drove it for the first time, I began hearing a thudding sound coming from the rear when I applied the brakes. I have not had the rear brakes replaced yet. The front brakes were replaced at 90,000 miles. What is your opinion of what is needed? If the brakes need replacement, what do I ask my mechanic? Is it safe to drive short distances?

A. From your description the noise may be just from accumulated rust from sitting unused for two weeks. The rust should wear off after driving a short distance. That being said, at over 90,000 miles, the rear brakes may most likely be just about worn out. I would start by asking the shop to go on a road test and then remove the wheels and inspect the brakes. Typically, the brake pads and rotors are replaced.

Q. We are looking for a family car. Currently we own a 2016 Honda Pilot Touring, bought new. Our only problem is that the third-row seating is cramped. It’s not ideal for adults. We came across the Jeep Wagoner, which has the option of seating for up to eight. The third row seems roomy and good for adults on long drives. What you think about the Jeep Wagoner? Do you recommend it, or any other options?

A. The Jeep Wagoneer is a very good vehicle, but I am concerned about long-term reliability with the Wagoneer or any Jeep product. Most buyers, when looking for a three-row SUV that can handle adults, look at the Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and Infiniti QX80. These are all big vehicles with room for adults. One vehicle that I would recommend that could work is the Toyota Grand Highlander or the more upscale Lexus TX.

Q. I installed two new brake light bulbs in my 2008 Toyota Corolla. One side I have to push down on the bulb for it to light up. The other side lights up, but when I twist the assembly into the socket to lock it, it turns off. Why?

A. Both of these issues sound like dirty connections are the culprit. Clean the sockets with a round wire brush. A battery terminal cleaning brush works pretty well for this. Use a little lubricant like WD-40 to clean up the connections and get everything moving. If this cleaning does not work you may be replacing the sockets. Also take a look at the wiring, just to make sure there are no issues.

Q. What do you think of Subaru vehicles? I was thinking of the Crosstrek. When I was in college, I had a Subaru and it was horrible. It never really broke down, but it was just a hard-riding, rusty, smelly car.

A. Subaru’s have come a long way. Although being in college, I am not sure the smelly part of your old Subaru was the car’s fault. Today the cars are solid and well crafted. Yes, some could be a bit more powerful and maybe a bit quieter. I evaluated a Crosstrek sometime back and found it to be a good car. I described it to someone like a good pair of hiking shoes, comfortable and ready for a long walk. The model I drove was the Sport and although not overly sporty, handled fine, the engine performance was certainly adequate. The interior was comfortable, and I really enjoyed the heated cloth seats. Technology was up to date and the large infotainment system worked well. At a time where the average new car is $50,000, the Subaru Crosstrek, at $30,000, also seemed like a particularly good deal.

Q. I have a 2020 Honda CR-V. It is a great car, but the check engine light comes on for an issue with the emissions system. My shop is very capable but cannot seem to find an issue. The code has something to do with the evaporative emissions system. Any ideas?

A. There have been a few weird issues with this car and phantom codes. The cause according to Honda is radio waves (interference) is being picked up in the wiring harnesses that triggers an Evap code. The repair involves replacing the harness that runs under the passenger and driver’s side door sill area.

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 at johnfpaul.podbean.com.