Q: I recently purchased a 2020 Chrysler Pacifica with 64,000 miles on it. It's my first vehicle with the automatic stop-start feature that's supposed to save on fuel. Initially I noticed it didn't always engage when stopped, and the owner's manual helped me understand that it only does it when the brake is fully depressed. But I'm always asking myself: Is this really worth it? When the engine stops for only a couple seconds, like in stop-and-go-traffic, doesn't the fuel used in the re-start offset any fuel saved during the brief stop? And won't the starter (or other components?) need to be replaced sooner than if I turn this feature off altogether?
T.O, Emmaus, Pennsylvania
A: Although marginal, the stop-start feature does save some fuel and reduce emissions. An improved starter and deep cycle battery handle the job. Additionally, the engine starts in less than one revolution. If you read your manual further, you may find that several other conditions may override the function. I recently rented a Porsche while my pickup truck was in the body shop and did not care for the stop-start feature so I killed it by pressing the “A” button on the console. You can do the same by pressing the “A” switch near the radio controls.
Q: I own a 2018 Honda CR-V that I love, except for an issue that started over the last year or so. There is a really strong musty odor at the rear side of the hatchback trunk. It is all completely internal, as I have nothing in my trunk. I have also lifted the board to access the spare tire area and have confirmed that everything is dry. There is no sign of any kind of water leaking that would cause this kind of odor. I do not smell anything coming from the vents. I am baffled how to resolve this issue and get rid of this odor. It has gotten to where I hate having to put grocery bags in my trunk area when I need to because the odor frustrates me so much! I asked my Honda dealer about it during an oil change. I was told they would need to keep my CR-V overnight to inspect. It will cost me money that I do not have. Do you have any suggestions that will help me resolve this odor issue?
R.D., Plainfield, Illinois
A: The only product with which I am familiar is Biocide Auto Shocker. Unlike Febreze or odor cover-ups, it seems to eliminate the source of stink.
Q: I had a slow leak on one tire that required air once a month. I took it into a tire store, and they re-set the tire to stop the leak. They told me that the stem was fine, but the bead was not tight. I have never heard of anything like this. The tires are several years old but in good condition with low tread wear. Is there something on the rim that wears out?
D.Z., Coon Rapids, Minnesota
A: Locales in the snow belt such as Minnesota use lots of salt and other chemicals on roads in the winter. Alloy wheel corrosion is quite common. New rims may be the solution, but I would suggest trying bead sealer first to see if it seals the leak. I prefer putting winter tires on steel wheels for the winter and swapping them in the summer. If you still want alloy wheels, shop around for reconditioned wheels that cost lots less.
