How windshields can affect tinted eyeglasses

S. When I put my shaded glasses on in the sun and then get into my car, the tint disappears because of something attached to the windshield. Why can’t manufacturers address this issue instead of drivers having to buy sunglasses?

A. Glasses that darken in sunlight (photochromic lenses) react to ultraviolet light. Most modern vehicle windshields, due to their laminated structure, filter out a large amount of UV light. This prevents the lenses from activating. The windshield is designed this way not only to protect against UV rays but also because the laminated glass and adhesives contribute to the rigidity of the car’s body, protect against roof crushing, and support the airbags. To my knowledge, there are no modern vehicles that do not filter UV rays through the windshield.

S. I have a 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with a 3.7L V6 engine that is making a weird noise. It starts up fine and drives normally, but after about a 15 minute drive, if I turn it off and leave it for about 10 minutes, it makes an annoying sound when I turn it back on. The noise changes with engine speed. Any ideas?

A. The technician will need to listen to the engine with a mechanical stethoscope to determine the source of the noise. Based on common problems with the 3.7L V6 engine, the likely cause is worn rocker arm or lash adjuster. If the noise remains present for a long period of time and is left unaddressed, the camshaft may also become damaged and require replacement.

S. My wife has a 2003 Toyota Corolla with only 70,000 miles. The clock has stopped working. Do you have any suggestions?

A. The clock is a standalone component and is not connected to other computers in the car. After checking that all relevant fuses are intact and that there are no wiring issues, the most likely cause is clock failure. A common problem is the cold solder connection on the circuit board. You can try resoldering the circuit board, or you can replace the clock with a new or used unit.

S. Do fuel additives degrade over time if stored in an airtight, unopened bottle? I found an old Volkswagen Multipurpose Gas Bottle (G 001 780 M3) about 7-8 years old. It was recommended for my 2012 VW Turbo Beetle. Should I continue using it?

A. I spoke with an engineer from Sta‑Bil who indicated that their additives have a shelf life of about five years. It is reasonable to assume that the VW additive is similar. Although it likely won’t cause harm if it remains sealed and appears normal, its effectiveness may be greatly reduced – just like expired medications. Using a new bottle would be the smarter and safer option.

S. I just got a car, which I’m grateful for, but it smells terrible – a combination of an ashtray and a litter box. what can i do?

A. I have had good results using an ozone generator to remove stubborn odors. These devices are commonly used in hotels, but can irritate the throat and lungs of chemically sensitive individuals and may deteriorate rubber seals if overused. As an alternative, I recently tried a deodorizing spray from Mothers Car Care Products, which claims to eliminate up to 99 percent of odors and has worked well in my experience.

S. I’m looking to buy a new SUV. How does the Ford Explorer compare to the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride?

A. The Toyota Highlander has an excellent reputation for long-term reliability and strong resale value. The Kia Telluride stands out for its upscale, spacious interior and its impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Historically, Ford lags behind Toyota and Kia in reliability, but the Explorer has improved recently and offers stronger performance, more engine options and advanced technology features. If you plan to keep a vehicle for three years or less, the Ford Explorer is a solid choice. If long-term ownership and peace of mind are priorities, the Toyota Highlander or Kia Telluride may be better options. Ultimately, test all three, explore the technology, and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

John Paul He is the automotive physician at AAA Northeast. He has over 40 years of experience in the automotive industry and is an ASE Certified Master Technician. Email your Car Doctor question to [email protected]. Listen to the Car Doctor Podcast on Apple Podcast Or other popular podcast sites.