Q I’ve had mixed input on whether or not to proactively replace the timing chain on my 2008 CR-V. It has 81,000 miles. I’ve also read that if you’re having the timing chain done, it’s a good time to have the water pump done due to labor. I intend to keep the car for a couple more years. I’d appreciate your input.

— J.S., Gurnee, Illinois

A You need not do anything. A timing chain is expected to last the life of the vehicle. A timing belt, on the other hand, should be replaced every 150,000 miles. It is the belt replacement that includes water pump replacement. Your vehicle has a chain.

Q I saw the question from S.C. in Newburyport, Massachusetts, about ice/snow getting packed in his Toyota wheel wells. While I don’t have this problem, I’m wondering if, before it snows, spraying Pam in the wheel wells might solve his problem.

— D.C., Boston

A Good idea. I am aware of using Pam on snow shovels and, in Florida, on the front of the vehicle to make love bug removal easier. Thanks.

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 points. Is there a correlation? What should I do?

— R.R., Lake Geneva, Wisc.

A Yes, there is a correlation. Ethanol contains less energy than gasoline — about 30% less. The BTUs (British thermal units) per gallon of ethanol is 76,000 versus gasoline, which is 114,000 BTUs. That translates into fewer miles per gallon. There’s nothing you can do.

Q I have a 2017 Nissan Altima that has 150,000 miles. I noticed the steering wheel would sometimes freeze while driving. I would need to jerk it left or right a little bit to unfreeze it. I cannot narrow it down to certain conditions when it happens; it can be in warm weather or cold, driving in a straight line, or around a curve. The independent shop I go to had no idea so I took it to the dealership where I bought it. They had no idea, but they told me I needed a power steering flush. This corrected nothing.

— S.O., Joliet, Illinois

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

Q I’m hoping you can talk me off the edge here. I just bought a Honda CR-V Hybrid, but I didn’t learn until later that the car has no spare. 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, but that feels like cold comfort. Should I be worried?

— M.C., Springfield, Illinois

A Don’t jump! 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. If there is a gash, the tire can’t be inflated. By the way, check the date on the sealant and be sure to replace it when necessary.