ArcaMax

It's still good policy to drive gently for the first five minutes or so, though. While modern engines are pretty much ready to go as soon as you turn the ignition key (or hit the starter button), other driveline components - such as manual transmissions, axles, wheel bearings and so on - will still be grateful to you if you take it easy until they warm up a little.

* Should you run the AC in the winter?

The answer is - yes! For two very sound practical reasons. The first is that by turning the AC on when it's cold, you will cause lubricant to circulate within the AC system, which will keep internal seals pliable and keep the refrigerant from leaking past those seals. Which will improve the odds that - come summer - you will not find out that your AC system is blowing nothing but warm air, because all the refrigerant escaped over the winter.

The second reason to turn on the AC is to helped dehumidify the interior - specifically, the windshield. If your car has automatic climate control, the AC will do this (come on) automatically but if your car has manual AC it may be necessary to manually push an "AC" button to get things going - so you can see where you're going.

* Is oil "just oil"?

The answer is - no! Never use any oil that doesn't meet the car manufacturer's minimum specifications - and is of the correct viscosity (e.g., 5W-30).

Use of oil that doesn't meet the specs can lead to mechanical problems that will not be covered by your car's warranty. This should put into perspective saving $5 on a case of "on sale" oil.

Also: be sure to use only oil filters that meet the manufacturer's requirements. A below-spec filter can cause problems - and those problems would also not be covered by the warranty, in the event it's discovered you used a below-spec filter.

Tip: If you have your oil changed by a non-dealer be sure to check that they use the right type of oil and filter (and that it is listed on your paperwork). And be sure to check the dipstick yourself after they are done - and before you drive away. Some quickie-lube places have been known to over or under-fill the crankcase - which can have catastrophic consequences.

* Are drive-through washes safe?

The answer is - yes! While there may still be a few of the old-school car washes left that use brushes to scour the dirt off your car (and with it, the paint) most modern car washes are "brushless" - they use fabric strips that kind of mop the dirt off, very much as you would if you were washing the car by hand. They have the additional advantage of using high-pressure water in great abundance to get most of the heavy dirt off without even touching the finish.

Drive-through washes also usually offer underbody spray - either standard or extra. This is worth doing - and worth paying a little extra for - if you live in a state where road salt (which accelerates rust) is used in the winter time. It's a lot easier than trying to do the same thing on your hands and knees with a garden hose!

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www.ericpetersautos.com or EPeters952@aol.com for comments.