Q: I have a 2017 Ford Fusion hybrid. When I took the car to Ford for a 60K service, I was told that the lug nuts were swollen. How do metal lug nuts swell? Plus, a technician told me that Ford charges $240 for replacements, or I could go to a parts store and buy them for about $40. What's the story here?
A: Ford has been using steel lug nuts with chrome-plated covers. Corrosion develops between the cap and nut, which is what your mechanic referred to as swelling. Get rid of them. I agree that aftermarket lug nuts would be a good choice, but be careful that they, too, are not the sandwich style, or the problem will repeat itself. Dorman is a brand I trust.
Can gas go stale?
Q: I have a hybrid Ford Fusion. Most of the miles driven are on the battery, so I use very little gasoline. I've gone as long as six months between fill-ups. Is there anything I should add to the tank to keep the gasoline "fresh?"
A: The fuel should be OK for six months, but you might want to add a stabilizer such as Sta-Bil for your peace of mind.
Phone fix
Q: Three weeks ago, you ran a letter from a person whose flip phone would not pair with his Subaru. He (and you) might like to know that some phones can be paired by using a cable, and, once that's done, will work via Bluetooth.
A: I love it when readers offer help to each other. Read on for another one.
A dust-up
Q: About a month ago, a reader complained about brake dust. I have a 1985 Mercedes SL with Bundt-style rims. Those cars give off a lot of brake dust, and it is difficult to get out of all the crevices. My son worked for a dealership in the summer during high school washing cars. Purple Power melts the brake dust. Be sure not to get it on the paint. Ammonia-free Windex also works well.
A: I have used Purple Power, but never on an automobile. It is powerful stuff. I advise users to read the label.
