Q: You recommended a stop-leak product to someone experiencing an oil leak. I’m curious how this product works without gumming up the oil too much. Is it making the oil just a little thicker. and, if so, how is that not harder on the engine?
A: Compounds in the product make the seal’s rubber a bit more pliable, which enhances sealing a bit. It doesn’t affect the oil. It won’t last forever, but it buys a little time. The seal eventually must be replaced.
The final car
Q: I generally will keep a car for 10 years. I am 74 and own a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek with 36,200 miles on it. When should I buy another car? Do I keep this one another three years and buy a new one at age 77? Any thoughts on “the final car”?
A: We generally keep cars for about 20 years. In fact, we just sold a Lexus RX330 with 217,000 miles on the clock. We didn’t get much, but it was running fine despite the exterior appearance. The moral of the story? Maintain your Subaru. You’re averaging only about 5,000 miles a year. At that rate, it should last for many more years.
Different needs
Q: I have a Nissan Leaf 2022 SV. When I bought the car, I also got a prepaid maintenance plan because I didn’t know the maintenance requirements of an EV. Everything I’ve read since suggests that these cars require no maintenance because there’s no transmission, radiator, timing belts, etc. What gives? Is the dealer taking me for a ride? Or are Nissan Leaf maintenance requirements different from other EVs?
A: Your Leaf is not maintenance-free. If you consult your owner’s manual, you may discover a few items such as tire rotations, cabin air filter replacement and brake fluid replacement. All the other stuff like reduction gear oil is suggested, but not mandatory. That said, if you paid for a full-coverage maintenance program, why not let them do their suggested stuff at no charge?
Minding your money
Q: When I buy a new car — typically every seven to 10 years — I always purchase an extended warranty. I would like your opinion on extended warranties and if you think they are a fair value.
A: According to Consumer Reports, “Extended warranties are an investment in peace of mind that limits financial risk for a set period of time. But beware: Past CR member surveys showed that car owners typically paid more for the coverage than they got back in direct benefits.” You would be better off creating your own car care fund.
