Q: Are jumper packs a good investment? The idea of being able to jump a car battery without having to find someone to help is very appealing, especially if you’re on your own. Prices vary greatly. Any thoughts or recommendations?
ND Birthplace, Illinois
A: A battery pack the size of a small loaf of bread is a lifesaver. Also known as a battery bank or power bank, it can not only jump start your car, but also charge your smartphone or other device. Look for one with a capacity of about 10,000 mAh and a peak output of about 1,000 amps. As with anything, you get what you pay for, but you can find many great units for under $100.
Q: I have a question that seems obvious, but there’s a family debate about it! New cars have tires. The recommended air pressure reading is printed on the inside of the driver’s door. If you buy a set of tires to replace the original tires, do you fill the tires up to the pressure listed on the new tires or on the door? I hope your answer puts this debate to rest!
AT, Plainville, Connecticut
A: Door stickers are for good reason. No matter what is molded into the sidewall of your tire, it’s the right pressure. The pressure applied to the tire is the safe maximum pressure, not the pressure at which the tire needs to be inflated. May you rest and be at peace.
Q: My 2011 Toyota RAV4 with 95,000 miles has the “Check Engine” sensor and the flashing “Auto LSD” sensor on at the same time. The situation started shortly after we encountered heavy rain on the interstate. Auto Zone conducted a free computer test, and the report indicated his two possible causes involving the EVAP system. Someone suggested that water could be getting into that system and using a “dry gas” product, but that hasn’t fixed the problem. Any advice?
JK, Virginia Beach, Virginia
A: It’s rare that water gets into the steam canister, but I wouldn’t say it’s impossible. The most common cause is an overfilled gas tank, forcing liquid gasoline into a canister designed to hold fuel vapors. Still, you may need to replace the canister, pump, or both.
Q: Back in 1987, I had an Oldsmobile Cutlass. It had a standard safety feature that silenced the ignition chime if the turn signals were left on. I haven’t seen another car with this safety feature since. Shouldn’t this be a standard safety feature on all vehicles?
KS, Lowell, Massachusetts
A: This is a great feature. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve chased someone over long distances hoping they’d turn around. Often they make lane changes in the opposite direction. A timed, self-cancelling turn signal is best. My Harley has had this feature for many years.
Q: I took my 2020 Subaru Forester with the 4 cylinder 2.5 liter engine to my local shop for a routine full synthetic oil change. I change the oil every six months regardless of mileage. Service told his advisor that he was planning a 1,200-mile trip to Southern California and was advised to take it back immediately after the trek because “the engine isn’t used to driving that far.” . what do you say ?
RW, Monument, Colorado
A: That’s ridiculous.
Bob Weber is a writer and mechanic who became an ASE certified Master Automobile Technician in 1976. Weber’s work has been published in specialized trade journals and various consumer publications such as Consumer Guide and Consumers Digest. Send your question along with your name and town to his motormouth.tribune@gmail.com.
