Side seats

My sister said she heard there’s a car in which the back seats will not only slide up and back but sideways as well, but she doesn’t recall which car has that feature. Have you ever heard of such a thing? If it’s true we could really use that for two active grandkids with much gear and a big dog.

You’re probably making reference to Honda’s Magic Slide. If you remove the center seat of the second row, the two outside seats can be made to slide forward and back and also side to side. You can get it on all but the base version of the Odyssey minivan.

Our son takes quite good care of his car, including washing it regularly. But he almost never waxes it. He says it’s no longer necessary because today’s finishes are very different from finishes of the past, and waxing is a simple waste of time. I’m not sure that’s true. What do you think?

I have to disagree with your son. Although it’s true that a car’s paint job is better protected now than was the case decades ago, that doesn’t mean waxing is no longer necessary.

There is a clear coat atop the paint job that offers some protection, but waxing gives additional protection. Without it, there’s a greater chance for paint to fade over time (the glossier the finish the more the sun’s damaging rays get reflected away), and for road chemicals to have a harmful effect. Wax also helps create a surface slippery enough that some dirt and gunk doesn’t stick.

Most experts recommend you do a wax job at least twice a year — more often if you live in harsher environments where there’s relentless sun, a lot of blown-about sand or if you park outside where leaves fall and bird droppings fall on it. Get both off as soon as you see them, but if there’s a coat or two of wax, there’s less chance of acidic damage.

How do you know if you need to pull out the wax? The tried and true method: if water you toss atop the hood or roof doesn’t bead up, it’s time.

What’s your question? Sharon Peters would like to hear about what’s on your mind when it comes to caring for, driving and repairing your vehicle. Email Sharon@ ctwfeatures.com.