Q: Many newer model cars have the rear turn signals and taillights along the rear bumper line. Many times I’ll be at a stoplight behind a car and am unable to see if they are turning. Seems like a safety hazard to me. Your thoughts?
Motormouth: The disappearing turn signal
Many newer models have moved the rear lights down to the bumper.
By Bob Weber
July 12, 2024 at 1:15PM
A: According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, brake lights must be 15 inches above the road surface, and their maximum height should not exceed 72 inches. I couldn’t find a regulation for turn signals. Personally, I don’t care for the lower placement. But, by maintaining adequate space between my car and the one in front of me, the lights remain visible.
A tire hum
Q: My 2009 Toyota Venza with 190,00 miles on it makes a loud humming noise. Up around 70 mph, you can barely hear it. It seems to come from the rear of the car. Any thoughts on what could be causing this?
A: Humming most often is caused by the tires. It’s easy to find out. Simply swap the rear tires with the front tires to see if the noise goes away. If it doesn’t, further diagnosis is needed.
No EV alternator
Q: I have a 2023 Toyota Camry hybrid. There’s a 12-volt battery that supplies the traditional power to control the car, and there’s the hybrid battery that produces electricity for propulsion. I’m assuming there’s an alternator or something that charges the 12-volt battery when the car is running. But if you’re listening to the radio while the car is parked, it seems like there’s a risk of depleting the 12-volt battery and not being able to start the car later. Is this correct?
A: There is no alternator on hybrid or electric vehicles. Instead, there’s a DC-to-DC converter that provides 12 volts from the propulsion battery pack. Don’t worry, you won’t kill the 12-volt battery by using devices when you select the accessory mode on the ignition switch.
Keep it clean
Q: I own a 1988 Mercedes Benz 56-SL. The guys at the detailing shop want to steam clean the engine for $100. Do you think that’s necessary? If so, is $100 reasonable?
A: If your engine is not covered in greasy dirt, you don’t necessarily need to get it cleaned. But a thick buildup may cause the engine to run a little hotter. The price sounds reasonable.
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.
about the writer
Bob Weber
Tribunew News Service
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