John Paul

1 week ago | boston.com | John Paul |Jack Pickell

How To Q. My wife purchased a 2024 Audi Q5 Sportback in May of 2024. It now has 2,200 miles on it. We went away for six days and upon returning the battery was dead. Nothing was left on.

2 weeks ago | boston.com | John Paul |Jack Pickell

Q. I seem to remember you answering this question before, but at the time it did not apply to me. Now it does. Why does it take a long time to put gas in my car? The pump keeps clicking off. I have to pump it really slowly. A. This is typical of a car experiencing an issue with the evaporative emissions system. There is a vent that can malfunction, or the vent can be clogged with mud or other debris. I have even seen spider webs cause a problem.

3 weeks ago | boston.com | John Paul |Jack Pickell

Q. My windshield broke in the last snowstorm. It seems to be an internal break and does not meet the surface outside or inside. If I do not get a new windshield, is it dangerous to drive? Also, is it illegal to drive it this way in Massachusetts? A. Is it dangerous? The windshield is laminated glass, so it is really only an issue if something else hits the windshield because it is now weaker. Is it illegal? Yes. Cracks or chips larger than a quarter will fail inspection.

4 weeks ago | boston.com | John Paul |Jack Pickell

Q. My Kia Sorrento, not yet two years old, exhibited an odd symptom. Upon starting the engine the other morning, all of my computer presets were wiped clean. The home screen invited me to create my own presets which I long ago did and all was working fine. All radio presets, GPS favorite destinations, safety alerts, preferences, and Bluetooth connections were gone. I even had to reset the time. It took me about an hour to reset all my preferences. The car runs fine. What happened?

1 month ago | boston.com | John Paul |Jack Pickell

How To Q. I read your advice columns each week and listen to your podcasts fairly often. You confuse me a bit. One time I am convinced you are a dedicated petrolhead, then you are talking about electric cars and even electric bikes.