Some folks report good experiences at the DMV

QI want to let you know about my experience with the DMV title transfer process. On June 29, I purchased a used car from a private party. That day

I sent in the title transfer application using the DMV “Virtual Title Transfer” process on their website. A note on the site says, “Please allow approximately 30 days from the day we get your documents for us to process your Virtual Title Transfer.”

On Sept. 19, I received an email that my title transfer has been successfully processed and that I should expect the documents in approximately 14 days.

Just 83 days total! — Ted Panofsky, Woodside

AHere’s a faster way to deal with DMV issues like this.

QGood news! I spoke with a DMV person who said online registration payments with a credit card are processed right away and my new registration card and 2021 sticker were mailed out within the five days, as stated on the DMV website. There are only delays for payments made via mailedin checks. She kindly printed me a new registration card and sticker and is mailing them to me. She confirmed that a police officer can check online to verify that my registration is current. — Brad Thomson, Oakley

AOK, folks, haul out a credit card. Don’t depend on mailing in checks if you need prompt service.

QCorrect me if I’m wrong. You only pay for a toll lane if you are in a toll lane. If so, Andrew Getz’s rant about taxpayers having to use the roads is fatuous, at best. No one is forcing you to use a toll lane. The only time you are required to pay is on bridges, yes? — Wendie Weisman, Los Gatos

AYes, indeed.

QI went out for a drive the other day, and my car would not start due to a dead battery after sitting idle for several days. This happen to anyone

ANo surprise. Battery issues are plaguing drivers across the state. In May and June, according to AAA, there was a 34% increase in battery calls in Northern California. That’s equal to about 28,000 more calls in 2020 since stay-at-home orders were enacted.

All other calls for service, including flat tires, vehicle lockouts and tows declined compared to last year.

AAA recommends driving your vehicle at least once a week for at least 30 minutes. This will help keep your battery charged. Also, take a longer route than you usually would when running errands to let your vehicle run more.

Check your tire pressure when your vehicle has not been driven recently. Low tire pressure can lead to blowouts, affect handling and braking.