Motormouth: Change oil at least annually

Q: What matters more in oil change frequency, time or mileage? Because we both are retired and have another vehicle, our 2007 Toyota Avalon, with full synthetic oil, goes way past time before it ever gets to the mileage. Is that a problem?

A: Most carmakers require owners to change their oil annually, even if the mileage requirement isn’t met. For cars still under warranty, this is a must to maintain the warranty. Oil degrades over time. Moisture (water) is a major culprit and may not get cooked off during short trips. One more bit of advice: Don’t get lubricated before getting behind the wheel.

Q: I have a 2016 Ford F-350 single wheel rear axle that I bought for towing my camper. It is my weekend ride and has only 40,000 miles on it. Sometimes I drive it on Fridays just to put miles on it. Does this damage the motor?

A: Most engine wear occurs in the first few minutes after cold engine starts. The engine is happier after reaching normal operating temperature and being driven at highway speeds. If this sounds like your behavior, you’re good.

Q: I drive a 2016 Toyota RAV4. Sunlight from side windows causes a glare on the computer screen, making it impossible to use at times. Is there anything that can be done to reduce or eliminate it?

A: You can buy anti-glare film and trim it to fit. I found the EZ-Pro three-pack product on Amazon for under $15. It can be trimmed with an X-Acto knife or razor blade. Check Walmart and Best Buy, too.

Q: My wife and I like to listen to CDs when driving. My wife’s 2023 Honda HR-V does not have a CD player, but it does have a USB 2.0 and a USB-C port (for phones, iPods, etc.). I figured getting a 3.5 mm jack to USB cable would do the trick, but no luck. The car recognizes that something is attached, but no sound comes out. Did I get the wrong cable? Is it possible to connect a CD player to this car’s sound system?

A: I lost my Walkman a few years ago and bought a new portable CD player with Bluetooth. Now I can play my Pink Floyd collection through a Bluetooth speaker wherever I go. Many cars have Bluetooth compatibility. I suggest you consult an expert in the electronics department of your favorite store.

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.