Exploring the Slow Adoption of Electric Vehicles in the U.S.
Q. How does the United States compare to other countries in terms of electric vehicle adoption? Reports indicate significant electric vehicle (EV) sales in countries like China and Finland. What are the reasons behind this trend?
A. While it’s true that the U.S. lags in EV adoption, the specific figures you mentioned align more with plug-in hybrid vehicle sales. In China, fully battery-electric vehicles constitute about 33% of the market, whereas in the U.S., they account for only 8-10% of sales. A key factor is the robust charging infrastructure in countries like China and Finland. Additionally, China’s market offers electric cars for as low as $12,000, contrasting sharply with the U.S., where the average EV price hovers around $56,000. Although the American charging network is improving, availability remains limited in rural regions.
Q. After using an automatic car wash, I noticed a crack in my windshield. The damage wasn’t there before. Who is typically responsible for such occurrences? Do car washes cover these damages?
A. Generally, unless a car wash’s equipment is faulty, the establishment isn’t liable. There are instances, including personal experiences, where minor defects or chips can expand when cold water hits a heated windshield. Some car washes might voluntarily cover damage, but this is rare unless clear evidence implicates their equipment.
Q. My 2011 Dodge Durango’s remote starter stopped functioning. A professional installation service couldn’t resolve the issue. What should I consider next?
A. It’s often more practical to replace the remote starter system, especially if it’s aftermarket or dealer-installed. Should the remote transmitters work and no visible wiring issues are present, the control module is likely at fault. Given the vehicle’s age, sourcing the part may prove difficult. Investing in a new system could offer improved performance and security.
Q. What is the expected cost to repair a cracked side window on a 1998 Toyota Camry?
A. Costs can vary based on the source of the replacement glass. Aftermarket options might range from $100 to $150, while original Toyota glass could double that. Alternatively, a used window might cost about $50. Labor typically takes around two hours, with rates between $75 and $150 per hour.
Q. What are your thoughts on shops providing video assessments of necessary car repairs?
A. Opinions are mixed. Some technicians aren’t compensated for video work, which seems unfair. However, videos offer transparency for customers. If unsure about a repair, seeking a second opinion is advisable.
Q. After replacing my Honda Accord’s catalytic converter and oxygen sensor with parts from a local store, the check engine light reappeared. Is there an advantage to using original manufacturer parts?
A. While aftermarket parts can be cost-effective, their quality doesn’t always match original equipment. This can lead to issues like fault codes, despite normal vehicle operation. In some cases, switching back to manufacturer-specific parts resolves such problems, as evidenced by a similar situation with a Hyundai vehicle.
John Paul is AAA Northeast’s Car Doctor, with over 40 years in the automotive field and ASE certification. Submit your questions to [email protected]. The Car Doctor Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts and other platforms.
Original Story at www.boston.com