Q: President Biden recently announced an expansion of the use of ethanol-added gasoline. What are the benefits or drawbacks? It is usually a few cents cheaper, but I wonder if I get as good mileage with the blend.
A: A higher alcohol content might lower fuel economy because alcohol contains less energy. It's also possible that bumping the amount of alcohol, mostly made from corn, could impact food prices.
Stop brake use?
Q: My friend insists on using the parking brake on his 2021 Kia because he says it will protect the transmission. I think it's unnecessary, especially when he's not parking on a hill. Does this really help the transmission?
A: In the past I would have agreed to using the parking brakes all the time. That's because they were applied via cables that could rust. When that happens, the rusty cables might not move within the cable housings and, if needed when parking on an incline, the brakes wouldn't apply. But with Kia's electric parking brakes, there are no concerns about cables. There will be no transmission issues. But I still suggest getting in the habit of using the parking brakes so that you don't forget to do so when you end up parking on a hill.
Coming clean
Q: For many years I have added fuel injector cleaner to my gas, usually every three to six months. My confusion is twofold: Does it do anything and how to choose? The shelf displaying injector cleaners shows bottles of various volume and ranging in price from $2 to $15. How do you decide which one to buy? And what is the cleaner made of?
A: Back in the 1990s, several carmakers, especially BMW, instructed owners and mechanics to occasionally add Techron to the gas to prevent intake valve deposits. It contains a detergent. If you choose a top-tier gasoline, you don't need to add additional stuff to your tank because it already exceeds the EPA's standard detergent requirement. If you want to see what's in any given cleaner, look up the product's MSDS (material safety data sheet) for the chemicals used.
Getting squirrelly
Q: My 2015 GMC Terrain with only 20,000 miles sits in the shop with at least $2,000 in damage. Squirrels chewed into my HVAC housing, some wires and windshield wiper motor. Do you or any readers know of a way to deter these critters from re-invading my engine compartment?
A: I have heard of things ranging from high-tech ultrasonic devices to lowly mothballs. I have yet to find anything that is 100% effective. After the parts are replaced, wrap them with Honda rodent-proof tape to prevent a critter chewing encore. Meanwhile, check with your insurance company. Your comprehensive coverage may ease the bill.
Bob Weber is a writer, mechanic and ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician. His writing has appeared in automotive trade publications, Consumer Guide and Consumers Digest. Send automotive questions along with name and town to motormouth.tribune@gmail.com.
