Fill-Up Figures

Q: We’re buying a new car fairly soon and I’ve been reading reviews of various models from all of the sources I can find. A lot of them contain information I find mystifying. They’re telling us how much it would cost for a tank fill-up. Like $62 or $58 or whatever. Why is this helpful information? A: I’m stumped, too. I’ve noticed the same thing and have shared your sense of befuddlement. If a gas tank holds 15 gallons, it costs less to fill than it costs to fill a 17-gallon tank. So the fill-up price of one car can’t be compared to another, of course, which is the only reason I can think of to offer that figure. Moreover, any calculation regarding fill-up cost that was done two weeks or two months ago is outdated now (and probably had relevance in only a few cities anyway, inasmuch as gas prices vary so much from town to town). Possibly the idea of calculating the tab for a fill-up is one of those decisions made in a meeting room somewhere so as to make some things in each review consistent with another. Possibly it’s one of those things that, in truth, is about as valuable as telling people the color the of the windshield washer fluid that comes with the car. Q: Settle an argument: Is it truly bad to have several keys on your car keychain? A: It is. All those many keys, mini-containers of mace, flashlights and so on (not to mention the massive key chains themselves, with metal hearts or almost-life-size cocker spaniels dangling) stress the tumblers in the ignition switch when you’re bouncing around over potholes, speed bumps and uneven surfaces. Eventually that can lead to ignition failure (meaning the car simply won’t start). Some experts argue that even if you’re not bouncing over rough surfaces (and few of us drive on smooth-as-glass surfaces), a heavy keychain will sway when the vehicle is moving, and that’s enough to begin the damage process. You probably want that mace container with you when you’re heading for your car, but getting a pull-apart keychain and removing it from the rest of the stuff when it’s time for key to meet ignition is the best plan. What’s your question? Sharon Peters would like to hear about what’s on your mind when it comes to caring for, driving and repairing your vehicle. Email Sharon@ctwfeatures.com.