Q: I own a 2019 Toyota Highlander.

Over the years I have found getting into and out of the vehicle more and more difficult.

I have learned online about a set of “short coil springs” that drop the height 2-3 inches. Is this a possible solution?

M.F., Morton Grove, Illinois

A: Although lowering springs are available, I would caution you to think it over. It seriously snows in Chicagoland. A lowered vehicle may have precipitation-related problems and behave like a snow plow.

Q: I just read your column mentioning a battery tender.

I’m wondering about that for a hybrid car that would be kept at a second home for 6 months. Per the attached checklist it looks like you can do this but I’m curious about your take on a hybrid versus gas car with a battery tender.

S.P., Glen Ellyn, Illinois

A: The list of steps you included are good. Follow it. However, the list said to put a trickle charger on the battery, but didn’t specify which battery. Besides the propulsion battery, there is a regular 12-volt battery to handle stuff like lights, power windows, etc. You need to keep this battery charged. But don’t use a trickle charger, use a battery maintainer that floats to keep the battery charged, but not overcharged.

Q: I have 2013 Ford Escape Titanium with 98,000 miles and the backup camera is upside down. I have tried to reset the computer through the dashboard and disconnected the negative battery cable to reset the system with no luck. Is there anything else I can try before I have to replace the camera? Also the radio has stopped working.

G.M., Coopersburg, Pennsylvania

A: A flipped display is common on Ford cars. You completed the first two of three steps, so it looks like you need a new camera. As for the radio, it may have something to do with the master reset, which also affects the radio presets, etc. I hope you took care to remove anything like a thumb drive or phone plugged into the USB port.

Q: I read your column every week and am excited to get an honest answer from a Master Technician!

I have a 2011 Kia Optima with 73,000 miles on it. About a year ago, I noticed it was using a lot of oil. I took it to the dealer who told me that it was usual (a quart every 1,000 miles or so). I took it to my mechanic who said to keep adding oil about every 500 miles if it’s low and it’ll be fine.

My brother believes that is wrong and I need a new car! I really like my car. What do you think? Is it safe to keep it? S.B., St. Charles, Illinois

A: Sadly, one quart of oil in 1,000 miles is an acceptable industry standard. Your mechanic’s advice is sound, but a bit of overkill. Routinely check the dipstick when you fill up.

When it says to add a quart, do so.

You need not carry a half-quart of oil around. Your car is fine.

Q: I have a 2017 Lincoln MKX. In 2022, with 43,000 miles on the odometer, the rear differential chewed itself up and I needed a replacement. This past week with 81,000 miles on the odometer, the rear differential needed replacing again. Is this an ongoing problem with just my car or is it a widespread problem? G.R., Elgin Illinois

A: Word on the street confirms what you are saying. I can’t identify the cause and can only suggest you change the rear differential fluid every 40,000 to 50,000 miles to prevent another failure.

(Bob Weber is a writer and mechanic who became an ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician in 1976. Weber’s work has appeared in professional trade magazines and various consumer publications including Consumer Guide and Consumers Digest. Send questions along with name and town to motormouth.tribune@gmail.com.)