Car wash may have jarred traction control sensor wire loose
Q: I own a 2012 Chevy Suburban with 71,000 miles that I have owned since new. Recently I went through a local car wash and when I came out the...
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Readers urge for clarification on salt water in car washes
Q: I just read your column “Is salty water reused in car washes?” As a retired chemical marketer who has dealt with salt solubility issues, I suggest you look further...
When jump-starting a car, does it help to rev the engine?
Q: Recently in helping my elderly father-in-law start his Lincoln, I came upon a quandary. When jump-starting a vehicle, I know that decades ago it used to be useful to...
How much gas is wasted by idling?
Q: With the engine idling, how long does it take to consume a gallon of gasoline? I’m asking because I wonder if shutting off the engine at stoplights actually saves...
Is salty water reused in car washes?
Q: I just had my car washed at a popular local facility. I watched almost every customer hit the “free” under-carriage rinse button. Could that rinse water be recycled from...
Grandma not the only one baffled by tire options
Q: I have a 2010 Hyundai Elantra. The Oil Express guy says I need four new tires. Should I do some comparative shopping around for a good price? They gave...
Father knows best? Engineers know better
Q: My elderly father thinks it is better to drive without a radiator pressure cap. He is worried the pressure can pop a coolant hose. He has been driving his...
Heated floor mats? Why not?
Q: Have you heard of heated car floor mats? My wife says she thinks they would be immensely popular. My search had netted nothing so far. — C.K., Woodstock, Ill....
Brake check: Aftermarket brake pads as good as automaker’s, and cheaper
Q: I have a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe with 70,200 miles that is in need of brakes. My dealer says they use OEM brakes and rotors and I should pay...
Most SUVs are built more like cars than pickups, except Toyota 4Runner
Q: I always enjoy reading the Rides section of the paper and particularly your Motormouth part. I noticed a question from P.O., Montgomery, Ill., asking if there are any truck-framed...