Welcome to Engine Enigma’s FAQ hub, your go-to place for everything on cars, bikes, and EVs. From brand comparisons to troubleshooting common issues, we’ve packed answers to the questions every driver and rider asks. Explore quick guides on maintenance, performance, and the latest in electric mobility.
Toyota Motor Corporation
Q1: What Toyota Camry Years Should You Avoid?
Toyota Camry years to avoid are 2020, 2019, 2016, 2015, 2012, 2010, and 2007-2009. Some common reasons to avoid these years are excessive fuel consumption, transmission problems, and excessive engine vibrations.
Q2: Why Should You Avoid the Toyota RAV4 2019 Model?
You should avoid buying the 2019 RAV4 model due to uncomfortable ride quality, an outdated infotainment system, a noisy engine, and not quick acceleration. You can check out my article Toyota RAV4 years to avoid to know more model years you should not bet on.
Q3: What is the Most Reliable Toyota Highlander Model Year?
While the Toyota Highlander is generally a reliable vehicle, some model years are more dependable than others. The 2011-2013 models are often highlighted for their reliability after initial issues were resolved, and the 2017-2019 models are also considered a solid choice within the third generation. You can also check out the guide Toyota Highlander years to avoid to be familiar with the model years you should not purchase.
Q4: Why Did Toyota Recall 443,000 Tundra Trucks in 2025?
Toyota recalled 443,000 Tundra trucks due to faulty reverse lights, which can limit the driver’s view to the rear when reversing, increasing the risk of accidents.
Q5: Why Do Toyota Engines Last Longer?
Toyota engines are considered some of the most reliable on the market for several reasons.
- Robust Engineering: Toyota is heavily investing in research and development to build engines that can withstand wear and tear over time.
- Use of High-Quality Materials: While building engines, Toyota uses high-quality materials, which help to resist corrosion and wear.
- Advanced Manufacturing Techniques: Toyota uses advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure that engines are made to exact specifications.
- Rigorous Testing: Before the engine is released in the market, it undergoes rigorous testing, including simulations of extreme temperatures, loads, and driving conditions, to ensure reliability.
- Moderate Performance Tuning: Toyota tunes its engines for reliability rather than maximum performance. It ultimately leads to less stress on engine components over time.
Q6: What are the Toyota Models Besides the Corolla and Camry that are known for their “Bulletproof” Reliability?
Besides the Corolla and Camry, Toyota 4Runner models with the V8 engine are known for their bulletproof reliability. These are the only models still made in Japan, and Toyotas made by Japanese people are the best. Speaking of facts, 4Runner's reliability is bolstered by its robust construction and dependable engines, making it an SUV that regularly surpasses 300,000 miles.
Q7: Where are Toyotas Made?
Toyota cars are made in a wide range of locations across the globe, including Japan and 26 other countries across all continents. Japan remains the key hub for Toyota manufacturing.
Q8: How To Reset Maintenance Light on Toyota Camry?
Follow these steps to reset the maintenance light in your Toyota Camry:
- Firstly, you need to put your key in the ignition and turn it to position one.
- Now, push and hold the odometer button on your dashboard.
- Turn your key to position two.
- Keep holding the odometer button for about 10 seconds. By doing this, the maintenance light will start to flash, and a beeping sound will be heard.
- After some time, the light will turn off.
- Leave the odometer button and start your vehicle. Once your car starts, the light should be off. If it is on, you should repeat the process once or twice more.
Q9: Is Lexus Made by Toyota?
Yes. Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of the Toyota Motor Corporation.
Q10: What Oil Does the Toyota Corolla Cross 2022 Use?
Toyota recommend using 0W-20 synthetic motor oil for Corolla models, especially the 2022 Corolla Cross.
Subaru Automobile
Q1: What Subaru Forester Years Should You Avoid?
Subaru Forester years to avoid are 2019, 2015, 2014, 2010, 2009, and 1998-2001.
Q2: Subaru Forester or Outback? Which is Better?
There is a relatively minor difference between the Forester and the Outback. After 2018, the Forester stopped being sold with a turbocharged engine, so you will be stuck with 182-horsepower if you buy a new Forester. On the other hand, Outback models are powered by a 260-horsepower turbocharged engine. If you’re happy with 182 hp, you can go for Forester; otherwise, Outback is a great option.
Q3: Is Subaru Better Than Mazda?
It depends on your preference. If you want a small rear wheel drive convertible, Mazda is a better choice as it is absent in the Subaru cars. On the other hand, if you want quick, outstanding driving characteristics, you should go for Subaru.
Q4: What Is Subaru Starlink?
Subaru Starlink is an innovative in-car technology that allows drivers to enjoy multimedia content, seamless navigation, smartphone connectivity and safety.
Q5: What Country Is Subaru from?
Subaru is a Japanese car manufacturing company based in Ebisu, Shibuya, Japan.
Q6: Where are Subaru Cars Made?
Subaru cars are manufactured in both Japan and the United States.
Q7: What Is Subaru X-Mode?
Subaru X-Mode is an advanced traction control system that provides enhanced performance when road conditions become challenging. It mainly works with the Subaru All-Wheel-Drive drivetrain.
Nissan Motor Corporation
Q1: What Nissan Rogue Years Should You Avoid Buying?
You should avoid these Nissan Rogue model years, including 2022-2025, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2008-2013.
Q2: Why Do Nissan Leafs Struggle the Most with Long Road Trips Compared to Other EVs?
Nissan Leafs, particularly models from 2010 to 2017, struggle with long road trips primarily due to their limited electric range and the lack of a robust fast-charging network compatible with their proprietary CHAdeMO connector.
Q3: Is Nissan Reliable Compared to Honda and Toyota?
Nissan’s reliability compared to Honda and Toyota is a topic of debate. Most of the car experts claimed Nissan may not match the reliability of Honda and Toyota.
Q4: Is Nissan Going Out of Business?
No, Nissan is not going out of business. However, some sources claimed that the company is facing significant financial and operational challenges.
Q5: What’s the Steering Wheel Size On the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder?
The steering wheel size for the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is around 15"(Diameter) X 4 1/4" (Grip Circumference).
Q6: How Long Do Nissan Altimas Last?
Nissan cars are known for durability and have a reputation for quality. According to data from Nissan owners, Altimas can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles, amounting to about 15-20 years.
Q7: Where are Nissan Cars Made?
Nissan vehicles are manufactured in several countries, including the United States, Mexico, and Japan.
Mazda Motor Corporation
Q1: Why Did Mazda Replace Physical Knobs With Touchscreen-Only Controls in the 2026 Mazda CX-5?
Mazda replaced physical knobs with a fully digital infotainment and climate system in the 2026 CX-5 to align with tech-savvy competitors and integrate Google-based software, including Google Assistant and Play Store access.
Q2: Is the Mazda CX-5 a Reliable and Long Lasting SUV?
Yes, the Mazda CX-5 is widely regarded as a reliable and long-lasting SUV. It consistently earns high reliability scores, with a 4.5 out of 5.0 rating from RepairPal. Consumer Reports also gives it a strong 4/5 reliability score. You can also check my article Mazda CX-5 years to avoid to learn about the model years you should not buy.
Q3: What Country Are Mazda Cars from?
The Mazda Motor Corporation is based in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. Unlike many other car manufacturers, Mazda has kept most of its car production in Japan. With that said, the automaker makes most of its vehicles at one of its three plants in Japan, two in Hiroshima and one in Yamaguchi.
Q4: What Is Mazda Skyactiv?
Skyactiv is a series of automobile technologies developed by Mazda to enhance fuel efficiency, performance, and driving dynamics across its vehicles.
Q5: Which Mazda Sedan Is Bigger Than the Mazda 6?
With an overall length of 201.6 inches, the Mazda CX-90 is bigger than the 192.7-inch-long Mazda 6.
Lexus Automobile
Q1: What are the Biggest Advantages of a Lexus Hybrid System Compared to Other Luxury Hybrids in Terms of Efficiency and Driving Experience?
The biggest advantages of a Lexus hybrid system compared to other luxury hybrids lie in its ability to operate purely on electric power at lower speeds, delivering exceptional efficiency and reduced emissions.
Q2: Is Lexus the Lowest Quality of Luxury Cars?
No, Lexus is not considered the lowest quality of luxury cars. It has the best reliability and quality score among luxury brands in North America.
Q3: What Does Lexus Stand For?
The word Lexus is derived from a combination of the Latin word “luxus” and the French word “luxe.” These two words signify elegance and sumptuousness.
Q4: Where are Lexus Cars Made?
Lexus cars are manufactured in several countries, including Japan, Canada, and the United States.
Q5: How To Fix the 2010 Lexus RX Liftgate Motor?
To fix the 2010 Lexus RX Liftgate Motor, you can follow these steps:
- Identify the Issue
- Remove the rear hatch trim (door and cargo sections) and pull down the headliner rear section to access the motor bolts.
- Ensure that the motor has power on pins 10 (Blue), 12 (Black), and 8 (Grey) when the ignition is on.
- If the motor is confirmed to be faulty, you can replace it with a new one.
- If the liftgate is not closing properly, check for any obstructions or issues with the pinch sensors.
- You can also use a scan tool to check the liftgate control computer for any trouble codes.
Q6: Which Lexus LS430 Year have the Lowest Drag Coefficient?
The 2001 Lexus LS430 has the lowest drag coefficient, with a value of 0.25.
Honda Motor Company
Q1: Which Honda Models Were Affected by the Engine Stall Recall?
The Honda engine stall recall includes 2023-2025 Honda Pilot sport utility vehicles (SUVs), 2022-2025 Acura MDX Type-S SUVs, and 2021-2025 Acura TLX Type-S sedans.
Q2: Why is My Honda Civic 2018 Hatchback Trunk Not Opening While the Engine is Running?
The issue with the 2018 Honda Civic hatchback trunk not opening while the engine is running is likely due to the car's security system. The trunk is typically tied to the door lock system; it will only unlock if all doors are unlocked.
Q3: What is the Best Oil for a 2021 Honda Civic EX?
0W-20 synthetic oil is the best motor oil for a 2021 Honda Civic EX, as recommended by Honda to provide optimal engine performance and longevity.
Q4: How Did the Turbo Feature on the Honda CX500T Affect its Performance?
The turbo feature on the Honda CX500T significantly enhanced its performance by increasing power output.
Q5: Where are Hondas Made?
Honda cars are manufactured in several countries, including the United States, Japan, Canada, China, and India.
Q6: What Honda Pilot Model Years are Reliable?
2017-2020 Honda Pilots are considered the most reliable model years.
Q7: How To Reset Oil Life on Honda Civic?
You can follow these steps to reset the oil life on your Honda Civic.
- First, you need to turn the ignition to the “On” position without starting the engine.
- Press the menu button on the left-hand side steering wheel controls and visit the Vehicle Information section.
- Press the Source button.
- Again, press the Source to access the Maintenance screen. Now, you can view the engine oil life.
- Choose Yes and then press Source to confirm.
- Once it is done, turn off the ignition and start the engine to check if it worked.
Q8: What Is Honda's Luxury Brand?
Launched on March 27, 1986, Acura is Honda’s luxury division.
GMC Automobile
Q1: Which GMC Acadia Model Years Should You Avoid Buying?
GMC Acadia years to avoid include 2021, 2018, 2016, and 2013. You should not buy these models due to problematic suspension, faulty fuel injectors, faulty air conditioning system, and transmission failure.
Q2: What Does GMC Stand For?
GMC stands for General Motors Company, which is an American automotive manufacturing corporation.
Q3: How Much Oil Does a 1985 GMC C1500 Take?
The 1985 GMC C1500’s oil capacity varies by engine size. For example, a 5.7-liter engine requires around 5.5 quarts of oil.
Q4: What Does SLT Stand For GMC?
In GMC vehicles, SLT stands for Special Luxury Trim, which indicates a higher level of luxury and comfort compared to base trims like the SLE. It is designed to enhance both comfort and style without reaching the top-tier pricing of Denali models.
Q5: How Long Is GMC Factory Warranty?
The GMC factory warranty includes three types of warranties: Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty, Powertrain Limited Warranty, Corrosion Protection warranty, and Rust-Through Protection warranty.
- Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain Limited Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Corrosion Protection warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Rust-Through Protection warranty: 6 years or 100,000 miles
Q6: What Does At4 Stand For GMC?
AT4 in GMC vehicles refers to a trim level designed for off-road capability and ruggedness.
Ford Motor Company
Q1: Is it Safe to Drive a Vehicle With a Loose Suspension Ball-Joint Nut?
In June 2025, Ford issued a recall for F-150 Lightning pickup trucks over a loose suspension ball-joint nut. Driving with a loose suspension ball-joint nut is extremely dangerous. It can lead to sudden steering failure and severe accidents.
Q2: What is the Ford F-150's Hauling and Towing Capacity?
The Ford F-150 hauling and towing capacities vary significantly by trim level, configuration, engine, and specific packages. But a properly equipped F-150 can reach a maximum of 14,000 pounds of towing capacity and over 3,300 pounds of payload capacity.
Q3: What are the Risks of Driving a Vehicle With Low Engine Oil Levels?
Recently, 2018-2020 Ford F-150 trucks equipped with defective 5.0-liter Coyote engines faced a class action lawsuit for excessive engine oil consumption. Driving with low engine oil can cause excessive friction, overheating, reduced fuel efficiency, engine rust, poor performance, and in severe cases, complete engine failure.
Q4: How Many Ford Vehicles Were Affected in the Instrument Display Failure Recall?
According to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA), Ford recalled around 355,656 trucks over instrument display failure. These vehicles include certain Ford F-150s manufactured in 2025, as well as other Ford “Super Duty” trucks, including 2025-2026 F-550 SD, F-450 SD, F-350 SD, and F-250 SDs.
Q5: How will Ford’s New EV Platform Reduce the Cost of its EV Vehicles?
Ford invested $2 billion to transform its Louisville Assembly Plant into a next-generation EV production hub. The platform reduces parts by 20%, including 50% fewer cooling hoses and 25% fewer fasteners. It also cuts dock stations by 40% and uses lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which are cheaper and more durable than nickel-based batteries. Together, these changes lower manufacturing costs and make EVs more affordable.
Q6: What are the Warning Signs of Faulty Axle Hub Bolts?
Recently, Ford recalled over 103,000 F-150 pickup trucks due to faulty axle hub bolts. Some common signs include clicking or rattling noises coming from the rear of the vehicle.
Q7: Which Ford Vehicles Were Affected by the EcoBoost Engine Underhood Fire Recall?
The EcoBoost engine underhood fire recall affects over 694,000 vehicles, including the Ford Escape (2020–2022) and the Ford Bronco Sport (2021–2024) models equipped with a 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost engine.
Q8: Why Were Lawsuits Filed Against Ford Over EcoBoost Engines?
A class action lawsuit was filed against the Ford EcoBoost V6 engine because owners claimed the automaker failed to disclose known defects in EcoBoost engines, such as coolant intrusion, defective valves, and engine fires that cause safety risks.
Q9: Which Ford Escape Years Should You Avoid?
You should avoid these Ford Escape model years, including 2023, 2013-2019, 2008-2012, and 2001-2007.
Q10: Do Police Departments Choose the Most Basic Ford Explorer Models for their Fleet?
No, police departments choose the Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility, a specialized variant specifically engineered for law enforcement needs. It is not just a standard civilian vehicle but a purpose-built police cruiser with significant enhancements.
Q11: What is the Forecasted Cost of Tariffs on Ford?
Ford expects tariffs to cost it about $2 billion in 2025, which is $500 million higher than what it forecast last quarter.
Q12: How is Ford Coping with Trump's Tariffs?
The Ford company is using several tactics to cope with Trump's tariffs. These tactics include offering its employee pricing (A-Plan) to all customers on most Ford and Lincoln vehicles, increasing the price on Mexico-built vehicles, producing about 80% of its cars domestically, and frequently communicating with the Trump administration to negotiate lower tariffs.
Q13: Will Ford Release Cheaper Electric Vehicles in 2027?
Yes, Ford is set to release cheaper electric vehicles by 2027, with the first model being a mid-size pickup truck.
Q14: When Did Ford Motor Company Start?
The Ford Motor Company was founded on June 16, 1903, by Henry Ford.
Q15: What Models are Included in Ford’s 2025 Rear-View Camera Recall?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Ford recalled over 1 million vehicles due to faulty rear-view cameras. These vehicles include 2015-2019 models of Lincoln MKC, Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Expedition, Edge, Transit, Transit Connect, Econoline, and Ranger.
Q16: What Caused the Ford Super Duty Fuel Pump Recall in 2025?
The 2025 Ford Super Duty fuel pump recall was caused by internal contamination in the fuel delivery module’s jet pump, increasing internal friction and sensitivity to vapor lock. The problem stems from low fuel levels, which leads to an increase in the fuel temperature in the tank.
Q17: Why Should You Avoid Buying the 2015–2018 Ford Edge?
You should avoid buying the 2015-2018 Ford Edge model years due to several issues, such as a faulty engine, head gasket failure, engine overheating issue, and malfunctioning airbags. Check out the Ford Edge years to avoid article to learn about other Edge model years you should not buy.
Chevrolet Automobile
Q1: Why Should You Avoid 2024 Chevy Trax?
You should avoid the 2024 Chevy Trax due to its sluggish transmission, no all-wheel drive option, and a cheap interior. Check out my Chevy Trax years to avoid article to learn about other Trax model years you should avoid.
Q2: Which Chevy Equinox Years Should You Avoid?
Chevy Equinox years to avoid include 2025, 2024, 2020, 2019, 2010-2017, and 2005-2007.
Q3: Where is the Chevrolet Trax 2025 Engine Build?
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax is produced at the GM Changwon plant in Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea.
Q4: How Do Chevrolet Engineers Manage the Massive Heat and Pressure From Turbochargers in High-Performance Engines?
Chevrolet engineers use several strategies to manage the massive heat and pressure from turbochargers in high-performance engines. One primary strategy is improving cooling systems by using water-cooled turbos or upgrading the cooling system to handle higher boost levels.
Q5: Is Chevrolet the Second-Largest Seller of Electric Vehicles in the United States?
Yes, Chevrolet has become the second-largest seller of electric vehicles in the United States, with over 37,000 EVs sold in the first five months of 2025.
Q6: Do Chevrolet Cars Have Expensive Repair Costs, Especially With Suspension and Engine Problems?
Yes, Chevrolet cars have expensive repair costs, especially with suspension and engine problems.
Buick Automobile
Q1: What Made Buick so Popular in China?
The reason behind the popularity of Buick in China is a combination of historical prestige, strategic positioning, deep localization, and strong partnerships.
Q2: What is the Best Thermostat for a 2006 Buick Rendezvous CXL with a 3.5-Liter Engine?
A thermostat with a temperature rating of 195°F is best for a 2006 Buick Rendezvous CXL with a 3.5-liter Engine—for example, Motorad® 2067-195 Thermostat.
Q3: How Many Cars did Buick sell in 2023 in the US?
According to a report, Buick sold a total of 167,030 cars in the United States in 2023, representing a 61.4% year-over-year increase.
Q4: Where are Buicks Made?
Buick vehicles are manufactured in several countries, including the United States, China, Canada, South Korea, and Germany.
Q5: How Much Do 2015 Buick Encores Cost?
The price of the 2015 Buick Encores varies by the trim level.
- Sport Utility 4D: $24,990
- Convenience Sport Utility 4D: $27,080
- Leather Sport Utility 4D: $28,875
- Premium Sport Utility 4D: $30,360
Q6: Which Is the Buick Full Size SUV?
The Buick full-size SUV is the Enclave. It measures around 204 inches in length and 78 inches wide.
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