Q: I own a 2021 Tesla Model S and I invested $1,500 on the Tesla home charger (installation costs included). Almost all my charging needs are met with my home charger. I am considering replacing my other vehicle with another EV, but not a Tesla. When asking GM and Tesla whether there is an adapter to charge a non-Tesla with my Tesla home charger, no one has been able to confirm whether this is an option. Can you assist?
B.N., Bartlett, Illinois
A: Every Tesla model comes with a SAE J1772 adapter to enable charging at standard charging stations, but the opposite adapter is not included. However, there are adapters that can plug into a Tesla charger like yours and then plug into cars like a Nissan Leaf or Chevy Bolt. Although they may cost about $200, you don’t have to install another charger at home and you can use a Tesla charger wherever you find one. The only brand that I know of is Lectron. One caveat: You won’t be able to use a Tesla Supercharger.
Q: I have a 2018 RAV4. Walking to open the door, I noticed what looks like a chip in the top of the chrome handle. I always place my hand behind the handle. I called a body shop I know asking for advice, and he said it could start peeling and would only get worse. He quoted over $400 to replace handle. I am a senior and can’t spare that much, but it makes crazy every time I go to get in. What can I do?
J.L., Chicago
A: If you only need the handle, that quoted price seems high. But if you need the whole system (linkage, etc.), the quote seems about right. If this is just a cosmetic issue, you may find a door handle cover for under $50. Call your dealership parts department.
Q: I have a Toyota Highlander and from time to time I transport items that block the rearview mirror. Is there any way to utilize the backup camera other than when using the reverse gear?
T.Y., Easton, Pennsylvania
A: The backup camera is activated when you shift into reverse. Period. Look into getting mirrors designed for towing. They stick out farther and provide a better view of what’s behind you. If you don’t care for mirrors that make your ride look like Mickey Mouse, check out clip-on trailer mirrors, which you can remove for everyday driving.
Q: I have a 2002 Volvo S60 that I have meticulously maintained in accordance with the owner’s manual. Regarding a coolant flush, the manual states: “normally the coolant does not need to be changed.” Should I now have the coolant changed or just follow the guidance in the manual? A GM engineer once told me years ago that coolant may retain its antifreeze capability for years but the anti-corrosion inhibitors degrade over time and can lead to a radiator failure. He recommended periodically draining a portion of coolant and replacing with fresh coolant to refresh the corrosion properties.
J.J., Chicago, Illinois
A: Your engineer friend was right — back in the day. Today’s coolants are much different and can last up to 5 years/150,000 miles or more. Many cars use organic acid technology (OAT) coolant, introduced by GM in 1995, as DEX-COOL, the first extended-life product. Volvo, Mercedes-Benz and BMW and other European cars use a special blue, silicate boosted coolant. Unless you drive under severe conditions, your owner’s manual will not steer you wrong.
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