Auto Almanac

2014 Kia Forte: The Kia sedan depicted here will be called the K3 in its South Korea homeland, and the Cerato everywhere else, except within North America. When it arrives here in mid-2013 for the 2014 model year it will be wearing the Forte logo as a replacement for the current design. There's no word yet about the car's engine, but considering that Kia is part of Hyundai, the K3/Forte will likely use the same 138-horsepower four-cylinder engine installed in the Hyundai Elantra.

Auto Trivia

n By 1900, it was estimated that more than 1,250 tons of horse manure was being deposited on the streets of New York City, every day.

n In 1919, the National Automobile Chamber of Commerce recommended that manufacturers warranty their vehicles for 90 days. It took until 1960 before 12-month/12,000-mile coverage became the new standard.

Who am I?

To guess his secret identity, read the following clues!

1. He could have been described as a modern-day blacksmith.

2. From 1981-'96, his designs won the coveted America's Most Beautiful Roadster trophy six times.

3. He has been compared to George Barris, Gene Winfield and Ed Roth, all custom-car legends.

4. In 1980, he opened what would be his first shop, Hot Rods by Boyd and created his own line of wheels.

5. He also stared in his own reality-TV show, but died in February of 2008.

Still stumped?

Before Boyd Coddington was well-known for his automotive creations, he also worked as a machinist at Disneyland. His designs are often credited with making hot rodding more popular.

What's up, auto doc?

Now is the perfect time to make sure all hinges and seals are properly lubricated since you might not get another chance until the spring. Aside from reducing squeaks, groans and other audible annoyances, there's less long-term wear and improved cold-weather performance. If you've ever encountered a sticky lock or frozen door seals in the morning when you're already late for work, you'll know what the AutoDoc is talking about.

To begin, you'll need about 30 minutes and some fresh motor oil, silicone spray, silicone paste and lithium grease (apply all sparingly). Use the oil on your door and trunk hinges (work it in by opening and closing the door/trunk), gas filler-door hinges and door handles. Use the silicone spray inside your door and truck-lock cylinders (silicone repels water). Lithium grease can be used on the door and hood hinges, the rubber hood bumpers and the hood latch. Rub down all the door, trunk and hood seals with silicone paste. If there's a warm day some time around midwinter, it won't hurt to repeat.

eBay watch

1980 Mercedes-Benz G-wagen, sold, $17,200: Not everyone can be rich, but in certain instances you can look and drive as though your ship has landed. The winning "G-wagen" bidder will be able to fool people into thinking he or she is piloting a $100,000-plus luxo-utility vehicle, since there have been few changes or body updates since the G-wagen was introduced. This clean, California-based 4x4 features a 5.0-liter V-8, factory bush bar and other upscale touches. The price appears to be a great deal for all concerned.