In terms of maintenance, what are the major differences between a car with a gas engine and a diesel engine?
Q. I am in the market for a new car and am picking between the Jetta TDI (diesel that will be released later this year) and a normal gasoline-using Jetta. I understand the differences in power and torque between gas and diesel engines. However, I am unsure about the amount of maintenance that goes into owning a diesel. Can someone who has owned both a gasser and a diesel for long periods of time help me out?
Asked by car buyer - Thu May 22 20:09:40 2008 - - 5 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Adding to the very good points already made.. The scheduled maintenance for a VW is not cheap.. similar to Honda's. However, even though the oil is more expensive (must be VW certified for your specific engine) your oil change intervals are greater.. so, it evens out. Don't even think about going somewhere like JiffyLube for oil changes.. I wouldn't even do that with a "gasser"! As far as cold weather starting.. just toss in a few ounces of PowerService (white bottle) anti-gel additive to each fill-up during the colder months and you will never have starting issues. Trust me, it gets to -25 degrees here! I really recommend driving both the TDI and the gasoline Jetta... I am pretty sure which you will choose after trying them… [cont.]
Answered by Calamity - Thu May 22 23:21:21 2008

How long will a maintenance free battery last if unactivated?
Q. How long will a maintenance free motorcycle battery last if left in its original box, without adding acid or activiating? Also just curious how long will a activated MF battery last if activated, and kept charged regularly?
Asked by yeahthatstheguy - Sat Apr 12 13:53:59 2008 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. quite long without acid... at least a year- maybe longer... once charged and kept on, say, a battery tender junior, life depends on load... what kills a battery is cold starts of a motor or sitting forever... that's why they have a "cold crank" rating. If the bike doesn't start every day BUT is on a self regulating charger like a BT jr... it will last years. Do the math... start the bike every day... one year is 365 cold cranks... most m/c batteries are around 320-340 cold cranks.
Answered by David K - Sat Apr 12 22:56:42 2008

What are some routine maintenance tips for cars?
Q. I just got my first car. It is a 1998 Buick Century. I honestly know nothing about cars. So I was wondering what type of maintenance does it need to stay in the great condition it's in now? And how often should I perform these tasks?
Asked by missbernice123 - Mon Apr 14 16:44:43 2008 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. the most important thing is to keep the oil changed every 3000 miles, have all fluid levels checked at least 1 time a month, proper tire air pressure, a tune up every year or so depending on the miles you drive, transmission flush @ 70,000 miles, coolant flush every two years, keep a good wax on the painted surface, have the belt checked every 6 months for dry cracks, find a good service shop that has a good record. beware of those speedy oil change shops. You can buy a manual (haynes) at most auto parts stores for about 20.00 for your car that has a maintenance section in it, a good investment! good luck, hope this helped you.
Answered by lblackvelvet - Mon Apr 14 18:06:09 2008