Motormouth: Ethanol cuts gas mileage

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%. Is there a correlation?

A: Yes, there is a correlation. Ethanol contains about 30% less energy than gasoline. That translates into fewer miles per gallon.

Q: I have a 2017 Nissan Altima that has 150,000 miles. The steering wheel will sometimes freeze while I’m driving. I need to jerk it left or right a little bit to unfreeze it. The shop I go to had no idea what was causing this, so I took it to the dealership where I bought it. They had no idea, either, but they told me I needed a power steering flush. This corrected nothing. I worry about what would happen if this occurs when I’m speeding down a freeway and can’t unfreeze it. Do you have any words of wisdom for me?

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 for a new assembly, try a good rack and pinion sealant such as Lucas brand.

Q: I just bought a Honda CR-V Hybrid, but I didn’t learn until later that the car has no spare tire. 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. Should I be worried?

A: 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. By the way, check the date on the sealant and be sure to replace it when necessary.

Bob Weber is a writer, mechanic and ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician. His writing has appeared in automotive trade publications, Consumer Guide and Consumers Digest. Send automotive questions along with name and town to motormouth.tribune@gmail.com.