Q. I bought a new 2025 Acura RDX SH-AWD in early 2025. Five months and 1,500 miles later, while driving, all dashboard warning lights activated and the steering locked. It was an extremely scary situation since I could not steer the car (and was on a curved road). I turned off car and restarted. Eventually the warning lights went off and steering was unlocked. The dealer confirmed EPS code EPS 3000-49, EPS failure and replaced steering rack and pinion. I am surprised this occurred with a new car and am concerned about future problems. The service department was not able to put my mind at ease. What are your thoughts? Is this something that I should be concerned about? If I am able to sell the car, should I? I do not want to have future problems, nor do I want to worry about the steering locking up again in the future.
A. There was an EPS (electric power steering) update, but it was only software based. The idea that the dealer replaced the entire steering system tells me that that they went deeper into the problem and made an updated repair. At this point with the information available, I would call the car accurately diagnosed and repaired.
Q. I have a 2019 Honda Pilot with 69,000 miles. Recently at the dealer they recommended a brake fluid flush and front and rear differential fluid replacement. I would like to get your opinion if this is needed (as in a recent article you stated you are not a proponent of “fluid flushing? This service can get expensive especially if not needed. What are your thoughts?
A. Brake fluid can get contaminated due to moisture, and it is a good idea to replace the brake fluid on any vehicle at 3-5 years. The ideal time to do this is during a brake replacement (just saves a little labor). The rear differential fluid comes up on the maintenance reminder as the number 6. The front differential is part of the transmission, so I am assuming the dealer service department is suggesting a transmission fluid change. Unless you tow a trailer or routinely drive off road or live in the mountain, Honda considers the transmission a “lifetime” fill. The dealer may be suggesting service based on their own recommendations. I am suggesting service based on what is in the owner’s manual and recommended by the manufacturer’s on-board Maintenance Minder.
Q. I am interested in the Volkswagen Tiquan. It is my understanding that everything is new in the vehicle except the name. I read that the engine has a history of burning oil and that in the long run Volkswagens can be very costly to maintain. I am thinking of waiting for the 2027 model to get any issues corrected. The other car that has me interested it the Kia Telluride. What are your thoughts?
A. Yes, some Volkswagen do burn oil a quart in 1000 miles and depending on the engine Volkswagen considers that normal. In general all Volkswagen models are good handling, nice riding vehicle with great interiors. Overall fit and finish are always quite good. As a VW owner (we have two) they can get problematic as they age, so something to consider if you keep a car a long time. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade have been refreshed for 2026 and have in my mind added more refinement. At one time the 10 year 100,000-mile warranty was one of the only reasons to buy a Kia, but now they are well-designed solid vehicles with the latest comfort and safety features.
Q. I own a 2010 Toyota RAV4 with 125,000 miles on it. It creaks a bit, but it is dependable as it is old. The driver’s side sun visor is beginning to droop a bit, perhaps an inch or so from the normal up position. I tried some online fixes, but they did not work. I’m uncertain as to purchasing another one, as I am somewhat concerned, I could do damage to the clips/assembly already in the roof on dismantling the original visor. Is there something really simple I could do to increase the friction point (rough it up a bit), so the visor does not slip. I had this same problem on last Toyota, and the dealer simply replaced it entirely. That was $100 back in 2014, so I think it would probably be closer to $200 at a dealership today.
A. The issue is usually inside the sun visor not where it attaches to the end attachment clip. I have seen people try hooks, clips and even spring clamps with little or no success. A new Toyota part online is $75-$80 and a replacement non-Toyota part online is $25.00. It is only a couple of screws that hold it in place and an easy fix. For $25 on Amazon or eBay I would give a non-OE part a try, if it does not work you could return it and get the factory part.
Q. I know you are car mechanic, but I have a boat question. I have had my boat in my garage for a couple of months and was doing some maintenance. When I went to move the motor (a 115 Evinrude E-Tec) the tilt and trim motor were not working. How do I trouble shoot this?
A. Just like any electrical component you start with the battery and connections. Test the battery and follow the connection to the engine. At the engine I would guess (not a marine mechanic) there is at least one solenoid and some fuses. Once you have determined those are good, look at the tilt/trim motor. Just like a wonky fuel pump or window motor, try tapping on it while a helper is operating the trim switch. If the motor starts to work, you have found the answer to your problem.
Do you have a car question? Email the Car Doctor for a personal reply. jpaul@aaanortheast.com
