Q: I’ve had mixed input on whether or not to proactively replace the timing chain on my 2008 CR-V. It has 81,000 miles. I’ve also read that if you’re having the timing chain done, it’s a good time to have the water pump done due to labor. I intend to keep the car for a couple more years. I’d appreciate your input.

J.S., Gurnee, Illinois

A: You need not do anything. A timing chain is expected to last the life of the vehicle. A timing belt, on the other hand, should be replaced every 150,000 miles. It is the belt replacement that includes water pump replacement. Your vehicle has a chain.

Q: I saw the question from S.C. in Newburyport, Massachusetts, about ice/snow getting packed in his Toyota wheel wells. While I don't have this problem, I'm wondering if, before it snows, spraying Pam in the wheel wells might solve his problem. We probably both know Pam works on snow shovels.

D.C., Boston

A: Good idea. I am aware of using Pam on snow shovels and, in Florida, on the front of the vehicle to make love bug removal easier. Thanks.

Q: Does the use of ethanol in gas result in lower mileage? In Wisconsin I typically use gas with 10% ethanol. I recently traveled by car to the Southeast and used gas without added ethanol. The mpg increased by about 8 to 9 points. Is there a correlation? What should I do?

R.R., Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

A: Yes, there is a correlation. Ethanol contains less energy than gasoline — about 30% less. The BTUs (British thermal units) per gallon of ethanol is 76,000 versus gasoline, which is 114,000 BTUs. That translates into fewer miles per gallon. There’s nothing you can do. (Full disclosure: I don’t do math in public.)

Q: I have a 2017 Nissan Altima that has 150,000 miles. I noticed the steering wheel would sometimes freeze while driving. I would need to jerk it left or right a little bit to unfreeze it. I cannot narrow it down to certain conditions when it happens; it can be in warm weather or cold, driving in a straight line, or around a curve. The independent shop I go to had no idea so I took it to the dealership where I bought it. They had no idea, but they told me I needed a power steering flush. This corrected nothing. I worry what happens if this occurs when I’m doing 80 mph on I-65 south and I can’t unfreeze it.

S.O., Joliet, Illinois

A: I would first check the tie rods for wear. If they’re OK, worn seals in the rack and pinion assembly may be the problem. Before plunking down a couple hundred bucks, try a good rack and pinion sealant such as Lucas brand. It may buy you some time before you have to shell out for a replacement R&P.

Q: I’m hoping you can talk me off the edge here. I just bought a Honda CR-V Hybrid, but I didn’t learn until later that the car has no spare. Not even a donut. Apparently, there’s no room because that’s where the battery is. I have an air pump that may or may not have some kind of sealant with it, but that feels like cold comfort. Should I be worried?

M.C., Springfield, Illinois

A: Don’t jump! Welcome to the new world of dealing with flat tires. Yes, the pump and sealant will do the job to get you home or to a shop. If there is a gash, the tire can’t be inflated. By the way, check the date on the sealant and be sure to replace it when necessary.

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