A: I recently spent some time in the Ford Explorer with the 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine. After driving it for a day, I stopped and opened the hood just to verify that it was actually a 4-cylinder engine. The 2.3-liter, 4-cylinder, turbocharged engine develops 300 horsepower and 310 pound/feet of torque (more than your old Explorer).

The engine is also connected to a 10-speed transmission that nicely matches the performance of the engine.

According to Ford, the Explorer with the 4-cylinder engine can tow up to 5,300 pounds.

Based on my experience, the Explorer with the 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine should meet your needs.

Q: We just had our 2009 Toyota Camry LE at one of AAA’s approved repair shops, because my husband said he sometimes detects gas fumes.

The repair shop said they noticed some dampness but no leaking. They checked the lines and said we will eventually need a gas tank. What would be an estimated cost?

A: The repair will take between three and four hours, and the cost of the tank varies wildly. The factory tank is almost $800, but aftermarket tanks can be just as good and much cheaper. As an example, I found a quality aftermarket tank from an online parts house for $300.

Typically, these fuel tanks rust at the top. Until you decide to replace it, avoid filling the tank completely.

Q: I am in the market for a new car that's smaller than what I have now, which is a 2014 Lincoln MKS. I want a good, safe car that will also give me better gas mileage.

My two choices are the Subaru Outback versus the Volvo XC40.  Both cars have been rated by a consumer magazine as best buys for crash-worthiness, longevity and reliability. 

I would like your opinion and why you feel as you do.

A: Both are good cars, quite different but in some ways similar.

I believe the reliability and, even at certain points during its ownership, the resale value of the Subaru is better.

The Volvo feels solid and is certainly safe and a little more fun to drive. The Volvo is a luxury brand and even in their small model has some nicer features.

The Subaru is more fuel-efficient (slightly) and has a bigger fuel tank and a longer range and more cargo space. The Subaru drivetrain warranty is a year longer and is also a bit cheaper to buy.

If you want luxury features, and a bit more prestige, the Volvo stands out.

If that isn’t important, then comparing apples to apples, the Subaru in my mind is the winner.

Q: I purchased a 2010 Dodge Journey with 175,000 miles on it late last year. It has the issue of not starting (no crank) after a week of sitting.

When it doesn’t start, it will start right away with the jump pack.

The battery is two years old and shows 12.4 volts under the hood, but the voltmeter on the cigarette lighter socket reads 11.2 or lower.

I have installed a trickle charger under the hood with the block heater. If I plug it into the outside light pole, it charges for four hours and starts.

A: If it starts with a jump pack attached directly to the battery, I would start with measuring voltage drop at all connections.

Although you have certainly tested many components, your description sounds like poor battery connections.

Your test of voltage comparing the battery to interior voltage is telling me there is a poor connection. A poor connection due to corrosion is not always something you can see but it needs to be tested with a voltmeter.

John Paul is the AAA Northeast Car Doctor. He has more than 40 years of experience in the automobile industry and is an ASE-Certified Master Technician. Write to John Paul, The Car Doctor, at 110 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904. Or email jpaul@aaanortheast.com and put “Car Doctor” in the subject field. Follow him on Twitter @johnfpaul or on Facebook.