Q: Just read your article saying snow blower gas can’t be used for lawnmower fuel but can be used for a car. Why wouldn’t this mixture foul a car’s plug in the same manner as a lawnmower?
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—D.I., Rolling Meadows, Ill.
A: Adding a gallon or so of gas/oil mix to a tank of 10 gallons or more dilutes the mixture to acceptable levels.
Q: I have a 2014 Chevy Malibu. Lately, I have noticed dripping water from the tailpipes. I spoke to the technicians at the dealership and was told that it is condensation, which is normal, and nothing to worry about. Will this eventually dry up or will it create a problem?
—L.F., Palos Park, Ill.
A: Water is a byproduct of combustion and usually leaves the vehicle as water vapor. When the engine and exhaust system are cold, that water vapor condenses. Once everything gets hot, the dripping stops. If you don’t drive long enough, the system does not get hot enough to dry out. Liquid water sitting in the exhaust system will eventually cause corrosion.
Q: My mechanic told me not to change the transmission fluid in my 2007 Kia Rio that has 120,000 miles on it. I have never changed the fluid. I also called Capitol Transmission in Hartford since the fluid is dark brown. They said to do nothing until I have a problem. I would like your professional opinion.
—V.D., Rocky Hill, Conn.
A: Take the advice you have been given. Kia uses a durable synthetic transmission fluid.
Q: We have a 2013 Toyota Venza all-wheel drive with 210,000 miles. A recent accident required replacement of the right rear rim and tire. Two mechanics told us at a minimum replace both rear tires in order to protect the powertrain. Ideally, all four tires should be replaced. The old ones have only 6/32 inch of tread. Your professional opinion as we do not know what to do?
—L.R., Downers Grove, Ill.
A: The legal limit for minimum tread depth is 2/32 inch so you still have a little life left, but we agree that replacing all four tires is preferred. Any sustained difference in wheel rotational speeds may damage the all-wheel-drive system.
Q: What is your opinion of the cost of $141 ($52 for the bulb and $89 for labor) for replacement of the headlight bulb on my 2006 Nissan Maxima? The service writer told me it was necessary to remove the right front tire and fender liner to do this job. Upon returning home, I checked the fender liner and there was no indication that it had been removed. When I popped the hood, I discovered one broken fastener and one missing fastener on the plastic cover surrounding the window washer and antifreeze jug. All indications point to a quick fix.
—N.S., Old Saybrook, Conn.
A: The service writer quotes the job based on the factory parts and labor guide. The technician earns his living by splitting the labor charge with the dealership. If he can beat the book time, he can go on to another job and make more money. Mechanics are magicians when it comes to finding shortcuts.
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