Changing fluids on vehicles

May 2, 2019

Dear Doctor: I seldom drive my 2011 Chevy Camaro — maybe about 5,000 miles annually. When should I change the oil, and other fluids, such as antifreeze? Should I do these changes once or twice a year? Al Dear Al: It’s always a good idea to change the oil and filter twice a year and do an annual tire rotation. The antifreeze is good for five years, and a simple drain and fill will be fine. Make sure to use the correct coolant — not just a universal type. For brake and power steering fluid, use separate turkey basters and suction out as much fluid as possible and replace with new. ...

Buying used car: Change all fluids

March 28, 2019

DEAR DOCTOR: I’m considering buying a 2008 Lincoln Navigator with 90,000 miles on it. I want to know how to service / recondition it to get the best service and life from this high-mileage vehicle. What is the protocol for fluid changes, oil types, oil, and / or gas additives? — Sam DEAR SAM; First, 90,000 miles is no longer considered high-mileage. Normal servicing I recommend includes brake and power steering fluid, antifreeze, transmission fluid, transfer case fluid, as well as front and rear differential fluids. You should also change the spark plugs and fuel filter ...

Honda CR-V recall explained

January 24, 2019

Dear Doctor: I received a recall notice for my 2018 Honda CR-V. Apparently, there have been complaints about the oil mixing in with the gasoline in these turbocharged vehicles. The recall consisted of performing a software update and changing the oil. The owner’s manual calls for 87 octane or higher gasoline for the turbo engine; however, someone who drives a turbocharged Volkswagen told me not to use 87 octane, but rather to use 93 octane or higher. Will using premium gas damage the CR-V turbo engine? What is your opinion on using premium fuel? — Norman Dear Norman: On the use ...

Filters keep cabin clean

January 10, 2019

Dear Doctor: Whenever I lower the windows on my 2016 Toyota 4Runner, even slightly while driving, I get lots of dust and dirt in the vehicle. The dealer said put the vents on recirculate and stay off dusty roads. It’s really bad. Any suggestions? Michelle Dear Michelle: Yes, putting the climate control system on recirculate will help. I also suggest a cabin filter replacement. Do not use a cheap off brand air filter. If you are driving over dusty roads, then leave the windows closed. Dear Doctor: The coolant pump on my 2013 Ford Taurus 3.5-liter V6 with 167,000 miles started ...

Reprogramming factory feature disables convenience

January 3, 2019

Dear Doctor: I love my 2013 Cadillac XTS sedan with all-wheel-drive. However, very often after locking the car and returning to it after shopping or working, I find all four windows open. Any ideas? Ira Dear Ira: This convenience feature on your Cadillac is designed to lower all windows to help cool off the interior on hot days when the key fob is within range. However, a false signal picked up by the body control module causes problems. Once the body control module is reprogrammed the windows will no longer open by themselves; reprogramming will alter this feature. The ...

Well-trained technician needed to correct car’s safety faults

December 20, 2018

Dear Doctor: I have a 2014 Ford Taurus. A light on the dashboard indicates faults with the blind spot and the cross traffic safety systems. The Ford dealer reset the system and said it was fixed. However it’s not. I have extended coverage until June 2019. What should I do? — Frank Dear Frank: The blind spot system needs to be checked with a Ford factory scan tool. You may have to find another Ford technician to examine your Taurus. It takes a well-trained technician who has thorough knowledge of the system to make the correction. Safety systems are great for offering additional ...