Q: I have a question about oil filters. I change my own oil on two Chevrolets. They use the same filter. One is a 1996 truck, the other is a 2001 S10 blazer. When I buy filters at parts stores, the filters say for synthetic oil. I use semi-synthetic oil. Is it OK to use those full synthetic filters with semi-synthetic oil?
B.M., Colorado Springs, Colorado
A: Sure. All oil filters are compatible with all types of oil. Generally, the higher priced filters have better filtration, down to 25 microns or less. (A micron is a millionth of a meter.) This is important for anyone who wants to stretch their oil change intervals when using synthetic oils that claim extended life.
Q: We received a recall issue that has not been fixed and the local dealer offers no explanation or timeline for solutions. Apparently, the fuse box can suddenly catch fire because something in the Kia trailer hitch system is wrong. Of course, we purchased the hitch from the dealer who installed it. Do you have any information on this issue? We assume there is no issue while our trailer remains parked in the garage, but we would like to be able to use our camper soon, and we are worried that we may be injured or worse if this problem comes to light while we're on the road.
P.C., Clarendon Hills, Illinois
Q: We own a 2021 Hyundai Palisade, which we purchased new. We purchased a factory hitch and had it installed. Last summer we received a recall notice regarding the trailer hitch on this model. After the dealer inspection and remedy, we learned that only the wiring harness was recalled and that was disabled by removing an in-line fuse. Now we have an excellent, travel-worthy vehicle with a heavy-duty trailer hitch that cannot be used safely or legally! Neither the dealer nor Hyundai can give me any information regarding when or if a new wiring harness will be available for our car. What are my options? On behalf of all your readers, and for this inquiry especially, thanks for your expert advice and information.
C.S., Westchester, Illinois
A: Park the car outside. It is not the fuse panel, but the trailer hitch. According to Consumer Reports “Kia says that more than 70,000 owners of newer Sorento and Sportage SUVs equipped with a tow hitch harness should park outside and away from structures because there is a risk that a fault within the harness could cause a fire even when the vehicle is parked and turned off. The problem is due to a faulty printed circuit board inside the trailer hitch that can cause a short circuit and lead to a fire.”
Q: I own a 2015 Audi Q7 with 108,487 miles on it. I have been told by numerous people to dump the car as soon as possible because it will start failing miserably and cost me a fortune. I have heard, and do know from experience, that Audis are very expensive to fix, but I love my car (and have no car payments). Should I ditch it and never buy another Audi?
M.M., Peabody, Massachusetts
A: You are right about the cost of repairs, but my hunch is that you won’t need them anytime soon. Today’s cars are designed to go 200,000 before any major failures. If you compare the price of a new Audi to the trade in value of your Q7, keeping it, even if it needs minor stuff, may be your best option. The choice, of course, is yours.
