Q: I own a 2019 Toyota Highlander. Over the years I have found getting into and out of the vehicle more and more difficult. I have learned online about a set of "short coil springs" that drop the height 2-3 inches. Is this a possible solution?

M.F., Morton Grove, Illinois

A: Although lowering springs are available, I would caution you to think it over. It seriously snows in Chicagoland. A lowered vehicle may have precipitation-related problems and behave like a snow plow.

Q: I just read your column mentioning a battery tender. I’m wondering about that for a hybrid car that would be kept at a second home for 6 months. Per the attached checklist it looks like you can do this but I’m curious about your take on a hybrid versus gas car with a battery tender.

S.P., Glen Ellyn, Illinois

A: The list of steps you included are good. Follow it. However, the list said to put a trickle charger on the battery, but didn’t specify which battery. Besides the propulsion battery, there is a regular 12-volt battery to handle stuff like lights, power windows, etc. You need to keep this battery charged. But don’t use a trickle charger, use a battery maintainer that floats to keep the battery charged, but not overcharged.

Q: I have 2013 Ford Escape Titanium with 98,000 miles and the backup camera is upside down. I have tried to reset the computer through the dashboard and disconnected the negative battery cable to reset the system with no luck. Is there anything else I can try before I have to replace the camera? Also the radio has stopped working.

G.M., Coopersburg, Pennsylvania

A: A flipped display is common on Ford cars. You completed the first two of three steps, so it looks like you need a new camera. As for the radio, it may have something to do with the master reset, which also affects the radio presets, etc. I hope you took care to remove anything like a thumb drive or phone plugged into the USB port.

Q: I read your column every week and am excited to get an honest answer from a Master Technician! I have a 2011 Kia Optima with 73,000 miles on it. About a year ago, I noticed it was using a lot of oil. I took it to the dealer who told me that it was usual (a quart every 1,000 miles or so). I took it to my mechanic who said to keep adding oil about every 500 miles if it’s low and it’ll be fine. My brother believes that is wrong and I need a new car! I really like my car. What do you think? Is it safe to keep it?

S.B., St. Charles, Illinois

A: Sadly, one quart of oil in 1,000 miles is an acceptable industry standard. Your mechanic’s advice is sound, but a bit of overkill. Routinely check the dipstick when you fill up. When it says to add a quart, do so. You need not carry a half-quart of oil around. Your car is fine.

Q: I have a 2017 Lincoln MKX. In 2022, with 43,000 miles on the odometer, the rear differential chewed itself up and I needed a replacement. This past week with 81,000 miles on the odometer, the rear differential needed replacing again. Is this an ongoing problem with just my car or is it a widespread problem?

G.R., Elgin Illinois

A: Word on the street confirms what you are saying. I can’t identify the cause and can only suggest you change the rear differential fluid every 40,000 to 50,000 miles to prevent another failure.

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