Car Doctor: Are three-cylinder engines any good?

Q: I have been reading about cars forever and noticed that we are starting to see three-cylinder engines in some new cars. I understand everyone wants better fuel economy, but I’m concerned these new engines are underpowered and dangerous. Are these small engines any good?

Ray J

A: As I think back to the three-cylinder Saabs, Subaru Justy and the Geo Metros, three-cylinder engines were never very popular. With the exception of the novel two-stroke Saab, the other two were less than spectacular. Today we are starting to see the three-cylinder engines make a comeback. Mitsubishi has a three-cylinder engine in its Mirage that develops 74 horsepower, hardly a rocket but capable of 40 miles per gallon at a very affordable price. The most promising new three-cylinder engine available is the Ford Fiesta and, next year, the Focus. This new engine is turbo-charged and develops 120 horsepower; it should make the Fiesta still fun to drive all while getting more than 40 miles per gallon.

Environmentally sound refrigerant

Q: I read one of your articles in the AAA newspaper about the latest air conditioning refrigerant R134yf. I read that some of the German automakers are not using it; has this new product gained any popularity? I have heard that R134 will be very expensive, is this true?


A: The latest refrigerant is not required until the 2017 model year, although it is currently in some models by General Motors, Range Rover, Dodge and Honda. Regarding cost, R134yf is generally only available at dealerships whose cars use the product. I have heard about prices as high as $125 per pound as compared to $15 a pound for R134. Just like R134, I think we will see this new, more environmentally friendly refrigerant come down in price as its popularity goes up.

Brake fluid light needs attention

Q: I have a 2003 Acura TL and the brake fluid light comes on. I have checked the fluid and it looks okay. What do you think is wrong?


A: Brake fluid can get dirty and does need to be changed periodically. In your model car, there is a float and a round strainer. I would replace the fluid and clean the strainer and most likely, the problem will be fixed. That said, any time the brake warning light comes on, it requires immediate attention.

Electric car ratings

Q: I am considering an electric car, maybe a Ford Focus or Nissan Leaf. What do you think of electric cars?


A: I have driven both cars and they both do well. I prefer the Leaf; I like its unique style and general performance. Keep in mind that the range of electric cars can be limited in very cold or very hot weather. For more information about electric cars, check out AAA’s Green Car Guide: automotive/greencar/ greencar.html

Can’t go wrong with Honda Pilot

Q: I read your column regularly and wanted your expert advice. I have a 2006 Honda CRV and love everything about it (low maintenance, good snow performance and decent fuel economy); however, my wife and I are expecting our second child and I am 6 foot 5, meaning I need a bigger vehicle (I like to put my seat back pretty far). My question is, do I automatically go to the Honda Pilot or are there some other crossovers/SUVs I should consider? I love Hondas but would consider other options.

Gregory G

A: You certainly can’t go wrong with the Honda Pilot; it has great interior space, works well in the snow, and although not as fuel efficient as the CR-V, it does pretty well and is reasonably kind to the environment. Something a little different is the Ford Flex; it offers great driving dynamics, cavernous room and stands out in the SUV crowd. There is also the Toyota Sienna minivan; it is the only minvan that has all-wheel drive. This single option makes it a standout in the minivan crowd.

John Paul is the AAA Car Doctor (SM). He has over 30 years of experience in the automobile industry and is an ASE-Certified Master Technician. He will answer readers’ car repair and maintenance questions of general interest every Saturday. Write to Car Doctor, Features Department, The Providence Journal, 75 Fountain St., Providence, RI 02902. Or, email Be sure to put “Car Doctor” in the message field. Answers will appear in a future Cars section. Saturday mornings at 9, tune into John Paul The Car Doctor at






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