Car Doctor Q&A

Q My car makes a funny sound when I turn left, like grumbling noise, but not when I turn right. Will I get charged if I bring the car to be diagnosed if I choose not to have the work done? How can I determine what is wrong before spending my money?

A There are so many things that can make that kind of noise, a front axle constant velocity joint, wheel bearing, brakes and even a tire problem. Will you get charged, most likely depending on if they put the car on a lift after a quick road test. Some shops will waive any fees if you do the work. Some shops have a minimum lift charge of $50. My best advice is to ask if a shop will give you a free estimate, but remember sometimes you get what you pay for.

Q I recently purchased a new car and when reading the owner’s manual it recommends Toptier fuel, Does AAA Northeast have a list of the Toptier gas stations?

A If you go to www.toptiergas.com you will find out which brands have extra additives. These additives help keep the engine’s combustion chamber cleaner and that results in a smoother running engine. In fact, if you use the AAA app to look for the cheapest gas in your area, the app has the Toptier stations flagged.

Q After taking my car in for an oil change and a needed recall at dealership suddenly after about two weeks several warning lights are going off. The car is a 2018 Toyota RAV4, with a newish battery. The warnings are ABS system off, collision system off and brake system. Then a message, go to safe spot and stop. So, I am wondering if I check brake fluid and fill up, will the lights go off? What did the dealer do that caused this?

A It is unlikely that during an oil change or recall (the recall was for a load rating warning sticker and battery hold-down) that would cause any type of issue. If the brake fluid were low the “red” brake warning light would illuminate. The warning lights are all related and the usual cause is a faulty ABS wheel sensor. The sensor can become contaminated with mud, salt or fail due to a broken wire.

Q I recently read an internet post that talked about motor oils, as to which brands to use and which to avoid. Mostly, the avoidable brands were very obscure. But Quaker State was one of them. Naturally, mentioned to consider were known brand names; Pennzoil, Castrol, Valvoline, Mobil 1, etc. Apparently, the avoidable brands when “independently” tested failed to meet SAE standards, even though those oils stated that they met SAE standards. Can I safely use any “SAE” engine oil? Also, I oftentimes use Costco/kirkland Signature engine oil. Supposedly manufactured by Warren Distributors. Your thoughts?

A It is the internet, so you can never be quite sure of the accuracy. What is sort of interesting is, Quaker State is owned by Shell corporation which also owns Pennzoil. I cannot imagine there is really that much difference between Quaker State oil and Pennzoil oil. I from time to time use the Walmart store brand which is also made by Ashland or sometimes Shell Rotella. I probably watch too many Youtube videos, and I do like the guy who has the channel Project Farm. I know he has evaluated oil in the past in fact, I think the Walmart brand actually did better than the premium Pennzoil brand in his form of testing. For minimum engine wear and long life, use a good quality oil-synthetic preferred, and a quality aftermarket or original equipment filter and follow the manufacturers recommendation for oil change intervals.