10 Most Dangerous Distracted Driving Habits

10: Eating and Drinking

Compared to some of the other distracted driving habits on our list, this one might seem relatively tame. After all, it doesn't demand all that much cognitive horsepower to stuff your gullet while on the move.

But before you get too enamored of underway refueling, consider some of the things that could go wrong:

• You could spill scalding coffee on your lap
• That breakfast sausage muffin or deluxe burger could collapse in your hands, sending crumbs, sauce and patty pieces all over your work outfit
• Greasy hands or one-handed driving means less control of the steering wheel and shifter

In each of these cases, drivers face a potential domino effect where impaired attention plus an unexpected event lead to loss of control.

Solution: Eat before or after you get behind the wheel; to chow down during your drive places you and others at risk.

9: Applying Makeup or Grooming

We treat it almost as a joke: the harried office worker who slogs through morning rush hour while painting her face; the road warrior who uses drive time as shaving time.

There's even a conveniently placed "vanity mirror" in the fold-down visor right above the windscreen to facilitate this morning ritual. As usual, the blamed culprit is shortage of time. With our schedules more compressed than ever, the car or SUV might seem like the perfect place to take care of less mentally taxing tasks such as personal grooming.

But there's little arguing with the science on distracted driving. All but a small percentage (between 2 and 3 percent) of the population experience a noticeable decline in performance when they try to do two or more things at once [source: Watson and Strayer].

You may have gotten away with eyebrow plucking on the interstate up until now, but just remember that it's always a gamble.

8: Tending to Fido or Kitty

Clawing their way in at No. 8, as you may have guessed, are pets. Next to kids, or perhaps in lieu of kids, pets are the collective apples of our eye. Circumstances dictate that sometimes we want to, or have to, transport them. The reason could be a veterinarian visit, a move to a different home or maybe just a trip to the park or beach outside of walking distance.

In any case, the last thing you need is an animal roaming around inside your vehicle while you drive. For the same reasons you wouldn't want people shuffling around the cramped passenger compartment, pets should be secured. It's safer for them, you and others outside your vehicle.

Fortunately, there are carriers for cats and other small pets. For larger dogs, you can try vehicle partitions or even doggy harnesses that strap your canine securely into a seat. That way he can enjoy the wind in his face without getting fur and slobber in yours.

The proper securing device, coupled with your reassuring words and caresses, should make riding in the car a tolerable and perhaps downright enjoyable experience for your pet. And unlike our next subject, pets don't require expensive video games or other electronics to remain settled.

7: Keeping an Eye on the Kids

The little bundles of joy can be anything but if they don't have distractions of their own to while away time in the car. Whether it's two or more young ones squabbling or a lone infant protesting to be released from a restrictive child safety seat, you do not want to divert your attention from the road to indulge them.

According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, passengers are ranked by drivers as among the most frequent causes of distraction. Young children are four times as distracting as adults, while infants can be a whopping eight times more distracting, the AAA Foundation reports. Think carefully, though, about stealing a few seconds' glance to investigate while at cruising speed.

It takes only a fraction of a second for a road-borne hazard to enter your vehicle's collision zone and precipitate a disaster.

For the sake of everyone involved, if the little ones' screaming is about to force you to turn around and go back there -- pull over first.

6: Driving While Drowsy

It was a late night. Maybe you figured, "I didn't drink any alcohol, I'll be fine." But not long after getting behind the wheel, it felt as if your eyelids were anchored with five-pound weights. No matter how loudly you blasted the stereo or how many windows you rolled down, Mr. Sandman relentlessly seduced you to join him.

If that's ever happened to you and you're still here to read this, you're lucky. You're also not alone. Nearly 41 percent of drivers say they've fallen asleep behind the wheel at some point or another, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The NHTSA estimates drowsy driving in the United States causes 100,000 crashes a year, resulting in 40,000 injuries and 1,550 deaths [source: NHTSA].

Of course, it's not always convenient or safe to pull over and catch a few winks. Perhaps you don't think you need or can afford a night at a hotel or motel. But considering the alternative -- death -- it seems reasonable to consider it a non-discretionary purchase.

We go from mental shutdown to sensory overload with our next distraction. Continue to the next page to see why some people can't seem to keep their eyes on the road.

5: Fiddling with Entertainment and Onboard Electronics

Just because manufacturers and aftermarket companies make high-tech gadgets you can play with while driving doesn't mean you should.

Wisely, in-car DVD players are set by the factory to only play in view of the driver when the vehicle is parked. While that setting doesn't stop determined mobile multitaskers, at least it sends the message: The people who made these things think it's a bad idea to watch DVDs and drive at the same time.

Regular and satellite radios, iPod adaptors and navigation systems can all be deadly digital devices, in the wrong hands. To prevent your love affair with gadgets from becoming a fatal attraction, pull over if a gizmo requires you to focus on a screen and remove your eyes from the road. There's nothing wrong with In-Car Entertainment (ICE) in and of itself. But drivers need to know when to draw the line so that they don't wind up on a cold slab.

Many of us confess to taking a certain amount of guilty pleasure in rubbernecking. But can overindulging lead to a broken neck or worse? Continue on to find out.

4: Watching Roadside Diversions

Billboards are now animated and practically dare you to try not looking at them. Elsewhere, the hazard might be roadside bombshells -- like if you happen to be cruising through South Beach.

We humans are hardwired to notice the extraordinary. In our earliest days, the unusual could have represented an animal that wanted us for lunch or even a potential mate from another tribe who could diversify the genes of our offspring. One big difference between now and then was that we didn't have the ability to hurtle ourselves across the landscape faster than even a cheetah.

At 55 miles per hour (88.5 kilometers per hour), a car can cover half the length of a football field in about 4 seconds. So while your attention is focused on that toned hardbody strutting along the sidewalk, there's plenty of time for a cell phone-occupied driver to cut in front of you without looking.

While, arguably, our ancient hardwiring makes women better-suited to vehicular multitasking in the modern era, it's dangerous to divide your attention (hence your reaction time) among multiple activities behind the wheel, no matter what your gender.

One of the best -- or perhaps worst -- examples of this is our next distracted driving habit. It's guaranteed to push your buttons, so click to the next page to find out more.

3: Texting and Updating Social Media

OMG -- were you actually surprised by this one? Here's a stat that's nothing to LOL about -- you're 23 times more likely to crash if you text while driving [source: Distraction.gov].

Prior to the 2000s, this distraction would not have even made the list. But with proliferating technology and social media platforms, it's become one of the worst collective weapons of mass distraction with which we have to contend.

It takes about five seconds of attention to a screen and keyboard to send a brief text. Disturbingly, 77 percent of young adult drivers say they can safely drive while texting [source: stoptextsstopwrecks.org].

In actuality, distracted driving accidents, including those caused by the use of handheld devices, collectively form the No. 1 killer of teens, according to the NHTSA and others.

While it's convenient to blame our problems on technology, sometimes it's quite apparent that the issue really lies with us.

2: Daydreaming

Driving can be an opportune time to organize your thoughts, clear your mind, think through problems or just enjoy a few moments of solitude.

With experience, routine driving becomes an automatic activity in and of itself. Like brushing our teeth, we don't really have to think about the intricately coordinated choreography of our senses and muscles while driving.

So we might think we have plenty of processing power left over to focus on non-driving related tasks. And that can be dangerous, if we overestimate our powers of focus.

If you've ever let your mind wander and missed your exit on the highway -- then considered swerving across several lanes to catch it -- you're probably aware of the risk posed by daydreaming.

The fact is driving a car equates to operating heavy machinery. Just as you wouldn't expect a crane operator to drift off while hoisting tons of metal beams overhead, responsible driving means maintaining focus. Not only is it a courtesy to your fellow drivers, but it helps you to spot and avoid crazies on the road!

So what's our No. 1 driving distraction? This one has really stirred passions, on both sides of the distracted driving debate.

1: Talking on the Phone

Ringing in at the top spot on our list: talking on the phone. This dubious honor goes to the granddaddy of distracted driving, the now-ubiquitous cell phone. Ever since Wall Street titans and wannabe titans wielded the gigantic brick phones of the 1980s, our obsession with mobile communication has gotten us in trouble behind the wheel.

Driving under the influence of a cell phone, be it handheld or hands-free, impairs driver reaction to the same level as being at the legal limit for blood alcohol content of .08 [source:stoptextsstopwrecks.org].

Hands-free headsets appear to reduce the risk somewhat -- instead of both cognitive and manual impairment as you have with a handheld device, hands-free units only tie up your mental capabilities; in some jurisdictions, they're mandatory for people who talk on the phone while they drive.

Studies suggest that talking on a cell phone roughly quadruples a person's risk of being involved in a crash [source: AAA Foundation].

How could something that seems so innocuous be so deadly? Once again, it lies in the brain's ability to truly do only one thing at a time. We've become such masters at task switching that we create the illusion of successfully doing two or more things simultaneously. But throw a surprise into the mix, like a child darting into traffic or a slamming of the brakes by the car in front of us, and the brain can quickly fail to keep pace.

So there you have it -- 10 of the most dangerously distracting habits you can engage in while driving. While you might have a greater awareness of the risks now, just remember that many people don't.

Article courtesy of: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/accidents-hazardous-conditions/10-most-dangerous-distracted-driving-habits1.htm

Harvest Time at Old Alabama Town

Go down to Old Alabama Town throughout October as they feature Harvest Time in the 1800s. Join them for tours of the cotton gin and grist mill, and get a first hand look at farming in the 19th century. Individual self-guided tours offered Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Guided tours available by reservation only, for groups of 10 or more. Call 1-888-240-1850 for more information or visit their website at www.oldalabamatown.com.$10 for adults, $5 for kids (6-18), free for 5 & under.

Dine Pink at The Shoppes at EastChase!

Enjoy a delicious meal at  participating restaurants at The Shoppes at EastChase and a portion of their weekly sales will be donated to the Joy to Life Foundation until October 12th. Restaurants include: Panera Bread, Great American Cookie Company, 32 Degrees Yogurt Bar, Bonefish Grill,  LaJolla,  Zoe's Kitchen (5pm - close) and Smoothie King. Must mention “Go Pink.”

Visit The Shoppes at EastChase website at www.theshoppesateastchast.com for more information.

The Parent-Teen Driving Agreement

Are you the parent of a Teen Driver? Have them sign the Parent-Teen Driving Agreement! It encourages your teens to follow the rules of the road, stay focused on driving, respect laws about drunk driving as well as agree to certain restrictions and penalties set by parents. Find the agreement here.

Take the Pledge to Never Text and Drive

This initiative focuses on educating people – especially teens – about the dangers of texting and driving. The message is simple, yet vital: When it comes to texting and driving, it can wait.

Each pledge made to never text while driving is a symbol of commitment to be part of a movement that helps everyone make safe choices with their wireless devices on the road.

Teens on average, text five times more a day than a typical adult. That’s a lot of texting! And drivers that text while driving are 23 times more likely to be in a crash*. So AT&T is partnering with teens to get the word out about the serious effect texting and driving could have on their friends, their loved ones and their future.

Together, we can all have a part in making sure that no more lives are lost. No message is so urgent that it is worth diverting attention from the road and risking lives in the process. It Can Wait.

Visit  http://itcanwait.com/ to take the pledge

It’s Child Passenger Safety Week

Child Passenger Safety Week is today, September 17^th through the 22^nd.

Car crashes are the number one killer of children 1 to 12 years old in the United States. The best way to protect them in the car is to put them in the right seat, at the right time, and use it the right way.

There are so many car seat types and models, how do you know which one is right for your child? The right car seat or booster fits your child and your car, and is one you will use correctly every time you travel. Not only will your child ride as safely as possible, you will be establishing the foundation for a lifelong habit of seat belt use every time your child travels. Knowledge is power. Learn more to protect your child from injury and death in a crash.

Learn more about child passenger safety: http://www.safercar.gov/parents/carseats.htm#

Faulkner University Benefit featuring Laura Bush

Leader. Educator. Wife. Mother. First Lady.  With her characteristic intelligence, grace, and humor, Laura Bush will share her unique perspective as someone with a front-row seat to history

October 4, 2012
Montgomery Renaissance Convention Center in Montgomery, Alabama
Dinner: 7:00 PM
Reception: 5:30 (Special Ticket Admission)

Proceeds from Faulkner’s Turning Points Benefit Dinner go towards student scholarships. For more information or help with your order, contact 334-386-7257 or email benefitdinner@faulkner.edu.

This annual event benefits the students of Faulkner University. With your sponsorship, you help fund scholarships, providing bright minds the opportunity for an excellent Christian education. General Admission Tickets are $150. Visit http://www.faulkner.edu/giving/BenefitDinner.aspx for more information about seats and pricing.

Buying vs Leasing vehicles

When it comes to buying or leasing a car the options can be confusing. To help you make an informed decision we have provided the information below.

Buying

Who Owns It

Whether you pay for the car with cash, or finance it and make monthly payments, either way it’s yours. Of course, if you’re financing it, you’ll have to meet the obligations the lender requires, like a certain down payment amount and timely monthly payments. If you don’t, they have the right to repossess it.

Up-front Costs

If you’re financing it, the bank will probably request a down payment. You can also trade-in another vehicle and use any equity towards your down payment. The amount of the down payment is usually based on the lender’s requirements and your credit score.

Future Value

Your vehicle will be worth whatever you can sell it for in the future and that depends on how well you maintain it. (Be smart and protect your investment with regular scheduled maintenance by a factory-authorized facility!)

End of Payments

Once you’ve paid off what you owe on your contract, that’s it. Your vehicle is 100% yours. The lending institution will send you a Lien Release as proof that the vehicle is completely paid off and all yours.

Leasing

Who Owns It

You do not own the car when you lease. You’re paying for the use of the vehicle, but the finance institution that you leased it through actually owns it. This is usually why you pay less per month in a lease than if you were to buy the car. .

Up-front Costs

Leases often do not require any type of a down payment. All you usually have to pay is the first month’s payment, a security deposit, the acquisition fee and other fees and taxes. But, as with a purchase, if you want to lower your monthly payments you can always pay more upfront.

Future Value

In most leases you don’t end up owning it so you don’t end up selling it. That’s the financial institution’s job. Although you may have mileage limits and wear and tear guidelines that, if you exceed them, could cost you extra money when you turn your vehicle back in.

End of Payments

Most people return the vehicle at the end of the lease term. But some like to purchase it during their lease or at the end. Others like to trade it in before their lease is over. Just ask us about these different options before signing any paperwork and we’ll make sure you have your lease set up the way you want it.

Best Cars to Lease

The best cars to lease are those with the best book value after the term of the lease. Since they depreciate less, you pay less. Review the lease ratings to see which cars retain their value.

Defensive Driving Tips

There are an estimated 250 million vehicles on U.S. roads today. This is a recipe for more traffic jams and longer commutes which can lead to shorter tempers. Read the following tips and live by them – they will make a difference to your well-being while in the car, as well as others who are on the road with you.

• Be cognizant: When driving, remain aware of others around you. Do not get sucked into a situation that can lead to unsafe behavior or triggering an emotional dispute with another driver.

• Be generous: When in traffic and someone wants to cut in front of you, let them. You getting to your exit, through the tunnel or to the toll gate one car length behind, will not greatly impact your arrival time at all. It will, however, insure your getting there safely.
• Be spacious: Do not tailgate. Leave plenty or room between you and the car ahead of you – even if the driver behind you is tailgating.
• Be consistent: When driving in a highly trafficked area, attempt to maintain the car at a steady speed. Do not drive at inconsistent speeds to pass someone unsafely or to ‘get away’ from another vehicle.
• Be present: Phone calls, incoming texts, makeup or children can all be a distraction to you. All of these can impact your driving. Stay present to your driving responsibility as well as the driving responses of others.
• Be schooled: For many adult drivers, the last time they took a drivers education class was when they got their driver’s license. How many years ago was that? Through local continuing adult refresher classes, enroll yourself in a program to see what is new as well as get a refresher on some things you may have forgotten. Make this fun – do it with your girlfriend, teen driver, husband or partner.

Article courtesy of: http://carclique.net/post/monroevillechryslerjeep/embed/safety/40/13

Tips for Picking a Great Car Detailer

 

#1
Ask if he has a carpet extractor machine. This is standard issue for a good detailer, and a sign that they're really, truly cleaning your carpets. Less scrupulous detailers will simply spray on some harsh chemicals, and brush your carpet to make it appear as though it's been cleaned.

#2
He should be using a wet vac of at least 5 horsepower. Anything less powerful won't do the trick.

#3
Check the wheels on a car that he's recently detailed. There shouldn't be a dry spot on the sidewall. If there is, it means the detailer didn't roll the car after applying ArmorAll or a similar product to the sidewall. Here's why. When the vehicle is parked, the bottom of the tire is compressed against the road surface. So when you apply tire dressing, this portion of the tire doesn't get thoroughly cleaned. The detailer needs to take the time to start the vehicle and move it forward until this tire section is unweighted and can be fully shined. It's just a sign that the guy cares, and is conscientious.

#4
Check the windows. If the car has a frame around the window, roll the window down. That small section of glass that sits in the frame should also have been cleaned. If it hasn't been, it means that your prospective detailer is lazy.

#5
Look for uniform cleaning in completed cars. Detailers who rush through a high volume of cars will only clean the dirtiest spots. Look instead for a consistent, thorough cleanliness.

Article courtesy of: http://www.cartalk.com/content/car-cleaning-tips-pro-4

The Key to a Long-Lasting Vehicle

Basic car care is the key to a long-lasting vehicle, improving its safety and dependability, says the Car Care Council.

“Neglected vehicle care almost always means much higher costs down the line in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Following a routine maintenance program makes financial sense, extending useful vehicle life and helping avoid costly repairs down the road.”

The Car Care Council recommends 10 basic maintenance procedures to keep your car operating at its best for the long haul:

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.

1. Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.

1. Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.

1. Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.

1. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.

1. Schedule a tune-up to help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.

1. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.

1. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.

1. Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

1. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

The Car Care Council has introduced a newcustomserviceschedule. The personalized schedule and e-mail reminder service is a free resource to help motorists drive smart, save money and make informed decisions.

Article courtesy of: http://www.carcare.org/2012/04/car-care-the-key-to-a-long-lasting-vehicle/

5 Extravagant Car Amenities

Sure, we may need a car to get from point A to point B, but would we ever need our car to have an air purifier? How about leather interior ceilings? Or a bejeweled fuel cap? To those of us who are still chugging around in a bottom-of-the-line economy car, these amenities might seem utterly ridiculous. Some may gag at the idea of such excess and opulence. But don't be too quick to judge. After all, it wasn't too long ago that features like power locks and windows seemed reserved for the ultra-rich (and ultra-lazy). Now, not only do these come standard on most cars, but many feel they couldn't live without them.

We've assembled a few of the coolest and seemingly ridiculous amenities that can be incorporated into a car. Some make the ride more comfortable. And others -- let's face it -- are just for showing off. Either way, we can always drool and hope that some of these amenities will become popular and inexpensive enough that they'll trickle down to the rest of us.

 

5: Televisions

Granted, mini built-in TVs are becoming more and more common as backseat babysitters in minivans for families with impatient kids. But the TVs we're talking about are meant for adults with chauffeurs. The quality of these TVs might surmount those you have at home. Take Bentley's Arnage RL, which includes not one, but two 15-inch, flat-screen LCD televisions -- one built into the back of each front seat.

And what's a TV without something to watch? As if built-in DVD players weren't enough, Rolls Royce even offers broadcast TV via an antenna that picks up the local signal [source: Grant]. Satellite radio company Sirius also started offering Sirius Backseat TV, a TV feed of various networks meant for viewing in the car.

4: Over-the-top Sound Systems

There's nothing like turning up the music in the car and rocking out to your favorite songs. But for some, this experience needs to be so powerful and high-quality that the minimum, factory-installed speakers are simply not enough. We've all been stopped at red lights next to a car equipped with a trunk full of speakers, exuding deafening bass and blasting music loudly enough to be heard hundreds of feet away in all directions.

But for those who want to keep the space in their backseats and trunks for groceries and suitcases instead of filling it with monolithic speakers, there are more luxurious options. Audi, for instance, offers a Bose surround sound system with 14 speakers, including a subwoofer. There's even a microphone that picks up on the noise level in the car so that it can automatically adjust the volume louder to compensate for background noise [source: Audi]. And, not to be outdone, Lincoln even started incorporating THX-certified (basically, movie-theater quality) audio systems in their luxury cars [source: CNet].

3: Expensive and Unique Paint Jobs

Every fashion-savvy woman knows that color-coordinating accessories are the key to a great ensemble. And, of course, well-chosen colors can express your personality. The same goes for your car. Those buying a 2009 Maybach 57 can request the color of the car to match a particular color of a purse, pair of shoes or just about anything else for nearly $20,450 on top of the price of the car [source: Edmunds].

Those with the money to get a Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano might also be interested in coughing up a cool $22,000 for a red paint job. But this isn't just any red: it's an exclusive Rossa Monza paint of deep red known as Rossa Corsa [source: Chapnick].

Those looking for less sport but more splash might be interested in Volvo's C30, which comes in the special print of your choice. While the option is available only in Sweden right now, stylish drivers can select a protective appliqué film with their choice of several designs. Whether you choose zebra print, rainbow strips or some other pattern, it'll cost you around $3,150 [source: Edmunds]. ­

Read more: http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/gadgets/automotive/5-extravagant-car-amenities.htm

Lexus Taps Into "Laws of Attraction" for 2013 LS 460 Luxury Sedans

Lexus unveiled their brand new 2013 LS 460 Luxury Sedans yesterday in San Francisco at the "Lexus Laws of Attraction" exhibit. Drawing in over 500 invited guests, the show was filled with famous faces and a look at the beautiful autos, including the LS 460, LS 460L, LS 600hL hybrid, and the very first LS 460 F Sport.

The LS 460 F Sport was the show's flagship car and boasts a far more assertive look to the exterior, especially with the angles and lines of the body. The car's sport interior has seats with bigger bolsters, a steering wheel wrapped in leather with paddle shifters and aluminum trim. "With a sport tuned air suspension that has been lowered 0.4 inches, a Torsen® limited slip rear differential (RWD model), Brembo six-piston caliper brakes, and 19” forged wheels with summer or all-season tires, the LS F SPORT promises to be the most engaging LS ever."

The rest of the new lineup promises fresh style and an enhanced bold spindle grill that helps bring the autos a more aggressive when look out on the roads. The LS also has higher body rigidity, aiding in greater stability and a smoother ride. "Pitch and bounce control has been enhanced by adopting new frequency dependent shock absorbers, resulting in an even flatter, road-hugging ride," Lexus promises. The luxury sedans feature updated steering that brings greater accuracy and turn-in response, as well as an adjusted breaking system that brings the driver more power at quicker rates, while the pedal supposedly even feels better under foot.

Read more: http://www.justluxe.com/lifestyle/luxury-cars/feature-1805230.php

5 car repairs you shouldn't skip

We often don’t think about maintenance on our vehicles until something is wrong. But keeping your car in top running condition is vital.
Angie’s List went to highly-rated auto repair professionals for the 5 auto service items you shouldn’t skip out on.

Oil Changes: Oil is the engine’s blood and it's critical to ensuring a car’s long life. Your vehicle’s oil should be changed depending on your driving habits, typically every 3,000-7,000 miles or around 3-6 months. You should check your car's oil level about every 1,000 miles.

"Keep your oil changed - it is the easiest thing to overlook and ignore but the most important thing anyone can do," says Terry Irwin of highly rated Aloha Auto Center in Hillsboro, Ore. "We see more worn engine parts due to the lack of oil changes."

Tire Maintenance: Properly maintained tires improve your vehicle's steering, stopping and traction. Tire pressure should be set to the manufacturer’s specifications, which can usually be found in the owners' manual, on a sticker inside fuel filler door or on the door well of the driver's side door.

"It’s important to keep your tires inflated to the pressure that is recommended by the manufacturer of the car; Proper inflation keeps your tires wearing correctly," says David Beck of highly rated All Star Tire & Auto Service in Indianapolis.

Over- or under-inflated wears tires out faster, can negatively affect fuel consumption and present a safety hazard. Get your tires rotated and balanced every 6,000-8,000 miles and get the alignment checked at least once a year to make sure there are not suspension problems.

Fluids: Transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant can break down over time and lose their effectiveness. All fluids should be checked and topped off every oil change. Have your transmission fluid flushed out every 50,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and your vehicle manufacturer's specifications.

Brake Check: A brake inspection should be part of your vehicle’s ongoing regular maintenance to ensure safety and reliability.

Have your brakes inspected at least once a year or more often if you experience grinding, vibrations or shaking when you break. Regardless of the vehicle, brakes generally  need to be replaced every 20,000-30,000 miles.

Scheduled Maintenance: Failure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule could lead to loss of warranty coverage, breakdowns, poor fuel economy and a higher cost of ownership in the long run.

Having a certified professional inspect your car according to these schedules is an opportunity to catch problems before they get you stuck or escalate into larger repairs.

Build a relationship with a shop or mechanic. Bouncing from shop to shop may save a few dollars on particular jobs, but in the end the only one who will have any responsibility for the condition of the car will be you. "Having a reputable shop you trust means you having someone looking under the hood for any potential problems on a regular basis," says Mike Aronow, owner of highly rated Sunset Auto Imports Service in Henderson, Nevada.

A good mechanic, who is familiar with your needs, your expectations, and your car, will help you get the most from your car.

Read more: http://www.angieslist.com/articles/5-car-repairs-you-shouldnt-skip.htm?CID=OB7

The Nanta Cooking Show

The Nanta Cooking Show will run from July 11 through July 15th at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. The show is described as:

The Iron Chef Meets Stomp! Direct from South Korea, this amazing theatrical spectacular is the Iron Chef meets Stomp. Over four million people have been entertained on Broadway and around the world by five fabulous chefs that drum (with knives), juggle (with knives), and literally cook their way through a fast-faced evening of culinary delight the likes of which you have never seen!

Please visit http://www.asf.net/Plays-and-Shows/Nanta-Cooking-Show.aspx for more information.

Happy 4th of July!

There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America-Bill Clinton.

 

Wishing you a Happy 4^th of July from all of us at Reinhardt Lexus!

Summertime Care Care

This is summer promises to be a hot one!  To keep your vehicle in tip-top shape all summer long, here are a few tips to keep in mind as you beat the summer heat: 

With the hot summer winds upon us, the last thing you want to do is get overheated because your car, truck or SUV can’t keep up with the rising temperatures. With the increase in heat come new potential problems for your auto that you can protect against with some preventative maintenance.

1. Keep in mind your coolant.
This is often the first thing people think of when it comes to cars and hot weather, but most people don’t pay attention to coolant levels until they see puddles of it in their parking space or their vehicle overheats.

2. Check your battery.
High temps can cause the acids and fluids in your battery to expand resulting in leaks. This increases the likelihood that your battery will fail. If your battery is more than two to three years old, consider taking it in to your mechanic to have it tested, and if need be, have it changed out.

3. Inspect your tire pressure.
As you drive around during the summer, you will likely see more tire debris along the side of the road and highway. Heat causes the pressure in your tires to rise. If your tires already have some wearing, this can lead to an early blow out. Get a tire gauge and check the pressure or have a pro do it for you.

4. Watch for stretched and worn belts and hoses.
Belts and hoses stretch and deteriorate with age. Heat accelerates the process. If you wear out a serpentine belt or have a leaky hose, you’ll likely end up stranded on the side of the road.

Read more here:  http://americanautoassurance.com/4-summer-car-care-tips/

Remember Dad This Weekend

Looking for a great gift for dad?  Here are some car-related gift ideas for dear old Dad: 

"Father's Day is a great reminder to show Dad your appreciation for all the times he has helped you out.
Chances are he taught you to drive -- and perhaps maintain -- a vehicle.
If dear ol' dad is a car enthusiast, you're in luck. There are a slew of car-related gift options from which to choose.
Sixty-nine percent of male drivers work on their car, truck, minivan or SUV, according to the Car Care Council. Whether it's just light maintenance, like changing the oil and replacing the wiper blades, or heavier projects, such as replacing brakes, most dads enjoy taking care of their vehicles.
Whether your dad is a do-it-yourselfer or a do-it-for-me type, consider an automotive gift for dad this Father's Day.
Automotive accessories, tools, parts and products make ideal Father's Day gifts.
"If Dad's a do-it-yourselfer, a gift certificate from the local auto parts store would be appropriate," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "If he's a do-it-for-me, think about a gift certificate for an oil change or other service at his favorite repair shop."
From auto care kits and organizers to electronics and gadgets, gifts for dad's car are the best gifts you could choose."

Read more here:  http://sports.yahoo.com/news/car-care-tip-fathers-day-212906661--nascar.html

June is National Safety Month

Did you know that June is National Safety Month? Check out this driving fact sheet provided by the National Safety Council. Drive safe out there!

Learn more here: http://www.nsc.org/

New Trend Signals Trouble for Drivers

A dangerous new trend signals trouble for drivers.

A study conducted by the Society of Automotive Engineers made a rather surprising claim when presented last week in Dayton, Ohio: Turn signal neglect is causing millions of crashes per year and may be more dangerous than distracted driving.
SAE observed a total of 12,000 lane-changing and turning vehicles and concluded 25 percent of drivers neglected to signal when turning and a whopping 48 percent neglected to do so when changing lanes. Applying these percentages to U.S. drivers as a whole translates to 750 billion instances of turn signal neglect per year – or more than 2 billion instances per day, according to the study.
The study estimated that approximately 2 million crashes per year are a direct result of this issue.
By comparison, the U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that about 950,000 crashes are the direct result of distracted driving (driving while texting, talking on the phone, eating, putting on makeup, etc.).
"This is a first-of-its-kind report on a subject that amazingly, has never been studied," said Richard Ponziana, president of RLP Engineering and author of the report. "The turn signal is one of the very original automotive crash prevention devices and this simple driver-to-driver communication device remains extremely effective, but only when it is accurately displayed as required by law."
"The turn signal can no longer be considered 'optional' and all drivers have an ongoing duty to use it, just as they have a duty to stop at a stop sign or at a red light."SAE proposed a "simple" solution in the report: The Smart Turn Signal. This system uses vehicle sensors and computer control to assist the driver in assuring that the turn signal is used regularly – in other words, it tells you when you forgot to do so – and also shuts this signal off if the driver forgets that it is on.
According to SAE, because the system uses the same sensors employed by a vehicle's stability control system (which is standard on all new cars), adding Smart Turn Signals would come at no cost to the manufacturer or, in turn, the consumer.
The report also notes that Smart Turn Signals save weight and space, as they eliminate the turn signal trip mechanism – a system that has been around since 1940 and has never really been improved upon, despite exposed defects.
"Smart Turn Signals are the perfect complement to the Stability Control System since Stability Control predominately prevents single-vehicle crashes, whereas the Smart Turn Signal prevents multi-vehicle crashes," Ponziani said.

Read more:  http://autos.aol.com/article/turn-signal-neglect-study/

Drive Safe this Memorial Day Weekend!

Did you know Memorial Day weekend is one of the biggest driving holidays in the United States?  As you head out on your road adventure this weekend, have a great time and be safe.  More drivers mean the possibility for an accident increases exponentially.  Here are some tips to keep you safe while on the road:

 

• Refrain from all cell phone use behind the wheel, no calls or texting.
• Make sure all passengers are buckled up and children are in age-appropriate safety seats
• All children 12 and under should always be in the back seat
• Allow plenty of travel time to avoid frustration and diminish the impulse to speed
• Drive defensively and exercise caution, especially during inclement weather
• Maintain a safe distance of one car length between you and the car in front of you for every 10mph of speed.
• Avoid driving while drowsy
• Designate a “non-drinking” driver – even moderate consumption of alcohol impairs reaction time and driving judgment

 

Read more great tips here: http://www.nsc.org/Pages/Drive-safe-this-Memorial-Day-Weekend.aspx

And have a great Memorial Day!

Say Hello to the 2013 Lexus RX!

 

Have you checked out the all-new 2013 Lexus RX yet?  If not, here is a brief overview:

The 2013 Lexus RX has been officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.

Modestly revised, the crossover features a new front bumper, LED-infused headlights and a spindle grille. There's also restyled fog lights and an optional F Sport package with a unique front bumper and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Interior changes are limited, but include new ebony bird's-eye maple trim and optional saddle leather upholstery with contrast stitching on the seats, center console and armrests.

Under the hood, the RX 350 has a 3.5-liter V6 engine that develops 270 hp (201 kW / 274 PS) and 248 lb-ft (336 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission which enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds and hit an electronically limited top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).

Check out even more features and videos here:   http://www.worldcarfans.com/112030642038/2013-lexus-rx-debuts-in-geneva-videos#ixzz1vEOjvdrQ

Happy Mother’s Day!

 

Happy Mother’s Day this weekend!  Why not give the gift your mom really wants: a cleaner or more updated vehicle!  Here are some car-related gifts that would make the perfect last minute Mother’s Day ideas:

Her vehicle is her home away from home and gifts that enhance her enjoyment of that second home are likely to be appreciated, suggests Rich White, spokesperson for the Car Care Council. "We tend to gravitate toward gifts like jewelry, a framed photo or flowers," he says. "But why not break from the traditional and dress up her car? Maybe she's always wanted a sunroof or a cool sound system. Her wish could come true, with the help of your local auto specialty shop or service dealer."

White suggests that, beyond the obvious gifts such as seat covers or floor mats, Mom might appreciate having her damaged steering wheel replaced with one that's stylish, possibly even leather covered. A sun-damaged and faded dash could be repaired, replaced, or recovered to upgrade the interior. How about a GPS navigation system, remote starter, or satellite radio?

"Security devices such as a remote keyless entry or alarm systems are also popular add-ons," says White, "as are custom wheels or wheel covers. Most women are interested in the safety and appearance accessories as opposed to those, which are performance related. Gifts can be inexpensive. Net shopping bags, that hook on back of the driver's seat, are great gift items too. Just look around"

Right on the heels of Mother's Day, of course, is Father's Day, with additional categories of gifts to consider: special tools, custom rims, window tinting, or sound system enhancements, to mention a few. "Gifts for vehicles are always well received and the variety of innovative products never stops growing" adds White.

 

Check out the full article here:  http://www.carcarenewsservice.org/articles/automotive-gift-mothers-day-you-bet

Road Trip Planning 101

Are you taking a road trip this summer?  Taking time to planning your vacation is the number one way to ensure you and your family will have fun. There's destination selection, planning basics, entertainment, packing, and potentially most important of all, how to save money.

One website writes:

Road trip planning, like many things in life, is harder than it looks. The fantasy is the idea of just jumping in your car and heading off to experience wonderful adventures. Any problems? They'll just turn into hilarious stories you'll be able to tell everyone.

I've been on a lot of road trips - travel is my passion - and I can tell you that it's just not that simple. Taking the time to plan your road trip can make the difference between a great vacation full of fun and adventure, and a disastrous detour down the wrong road, one you wouldn't wish on an enemy.

Road Trip Planning 101

It all started as a kid; my family loved to take road trips in our big ugly blue station wagon with brown paneling on the side. A lot of times, we’d cram two families into that station wagon and all the kids would be piled the “back-back” seat that faced backward. Between making faces at the cars behind us, telling each other jokes, and trying to make the trucks blow their air-horns, we had a blast!

 

To read more about planning your road trip, click here!

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month!

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month.  Let us take this opportunity to make sure the road stays safe for everyone. 

Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving.All distractions endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety. These types of distractions include:

• Texting
• Using a cell phone or smartphone
• Eating and drinking
• Talking to passengers
• Grooming
• Reading, including maps
• Watching a video
• Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player

But, because text messaging requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention from the driver, it is by far the most alarming distraction.

Check out these statistics:

Drivers who use hand-held devices are 4 times more likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves.

Text messaging creates a crash risk 23 times worse than driving while not distracted.

Sending or receiving a text takes a driver's eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the equivalent-at 55 mph-of driving the length of an entire football field, blind.

Driving while using a cell phone reduces the amount of brain activity associated with driving by 37%.

So make sure you and your loved ones are driving safely and responsibly!  Happy driving!

Get all the facts on distracted driving here: http://www.distraction.gov/content/get-the-facts/facts-and-statistics.html

Conserve Fuel this Earth Day!

April 22^nd is Earth Day!  Improving your gas mileage is a great way to help the environment and your pocket.  Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Park in the shade

2. Avoid speeding

3. Accelerate and brake more gradually

4. Walk to work when the weather is nice

5. Use cruise control on open highway

6. Fully inflate your tires

7. Purchase a fuel efficient vehicle! 

Can you think of any more tips?

Find some more Earth-friendly tips here: http://gasbuddy.com/gb_tips.aspx

Reinhardt Lexus Offering FREE Tickets to Auburn A-Day

Reinhardt Lexus still has 4 Suite tickets and about 10 outside seating tickets for the Auburn A Day game this Saturday, April 14th.  The tickets are FREE, but first come first serve.  Contact Dan Knotts at the dealership if you're interested!

It looks like it is going to be a full day.  Check out what is in store:

Auburn will hold a Heisman Trophy Celebration in which it will unveil statues commemorating the school's three Heisman Trophy winners, Pat Sullivan, Bo Jackson and Cam Newton, in a ceremony at 10 a.m. prior to A-Day. The ceremony will take place on the east side of Jordan-Hare Stadium, where each statue will be permanently located. Sullivan, Jackson and Newton are scheduled to be in attendance for the event.

Coca-Cola Tiger Fan Fest will take place at 11 a.m. on Nichols Center Lawn and will feature inflatable games, sponsor sampling, airbrush face painting and more. Admission is free.

The Auburn University Parents’ Association will host a Spring Family Weekend Tailgate on A-Day from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the green space next to the Student Center. There will be a large tent with tables and chairs for parents and families to eat during the event. Tickets to Spring Family Weekend must be bought in advance. Each ticket allows the user to try out one of the new meals provided by the new campus food trucks, Tex’s Tacos and Slider U. Once you have used your ticket at one of the food trucks, you will return to the Spring Family Weekend tailgate to enjoy your meal. Under the tent you’ll be able to enjoy desserts and Auburn Parent giveaways as well.

The A-Day game will begin at 2 p.m. A commemorative Heisman Trophy print giveaway will be given to the first 50,000 fans. Tickets are $5 for general fans and free for AU students with an Auburn Ignited Card. There will be a post-game autograph session.

 

Read the full article with more about the players here, or get the full schedule of events here: http://www.auburntigers.com/aday/

Lexus Unveils the 2013 Lexus ES

 

 

Exciting news!  Lexus unveiled the new Lexus ES and 300h hybrid this week at the New York Auto Show. 

The biggest news for the ES is that first time ever the sedan will be offered with a hybrid powertrain in the form of the 2013 Lexus ES 300h. Lexus says the 300h will feature a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine aided by an electric motor mated to a continuously variable transmission. Power figures aren't available yet, but expect numbers similar to the new Camry Hybrid's 200-hp combined output, which employs a similar setup. Lexus estimates the ES 300h should hit 40 mpg combined city/highway. Drivers will be able to select four modes: Normal, Sport, Eco, and an EV setting that allows for short drives at reduced speed powered only by the battery pack.
Read more:

As for the gas-powered 2013 ES 350, it will continue to be powered by an updated version of Toyota's 3.5-liter V-6 (in the GS the massaged engine outputs 306-hp/277-lb-ft) driving the front wheels via a six-speed automatic. The automaker claims the ES has been engineered with more precise handling and a smoother ride thanks to a stiffer body, new steering ratios, and revised suspension geometry and hardware. The ES will come standard with 17-inch wheels, with 18s available for the first time as an option.

Speaking of the wheels, Lexus has stretched the wheelbase by 1.8 inches, with overall length growing an inch to 192.7. Thanks to these small gains, passengers can stretch out their legs a bit more with 2.8 inches more knee room and 0.6 inches more leg room.

Read more here: http://www.motortrend.com/auto_shows/new_york/2012/1204_2013_lexus_es_350_and_es_300h_first_look/#ixzz1rH0XNknx

April Fools’ Day is this Sunday!

April Fools Day is this Sunday, so watch out for pranksters!  We hope this prank doesn’t happen to you:

 

Car Prank - Why is Everything Turned On

Get inside their car and turn all the controls to the on position in the car. The wipers, the radio, the signal, parking brake, adjust the mirrors, move the seat all the way to the front or back, and turn on the vents (Point them all at the drivers seat on high). Not an evil prank but it will certainly wake them up in the morning. For bonus points set all the preset dials on the radio station to their least favorite station.

 

To read about more car pranks, check out the full article here: http://www.discoverfun.com/april-fools-practical-jokes-prank-website/great-april-fools-day-pranks/car-prank.html

Lexus Ranked to Brand in Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power!

 

Congratulation, Lexus, on leading the industry in Customer Satisfaction for the 15th year in a row!  Lexus recently  was named the top brand in JD Power’s Customer Satisfaction Index Survey.  This is the fourth consecutive time Lexus has achieved the top spot, and the fifteenth year Lexus has led the the survey, the most of any brand! 

Lexus ranked highest in customer satisfaction among luxury brands in the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Customer Service Index (CSI) Study^_SM for the fourth consecutive year. Lexus achieved an overall CSI score of 861 on a 1,000-point scale, 15 points above the segment average and the highest numerical score in the study, regardless of segment.

“Lexus dealers continue to raise the bar in delivering on the promise of industry-leading customer satisfaction,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “We are thrilled that their tireless efforts at exceeding customer expectations resulted in Lexus being the highest ranked brand in CSI for the 15th time, more than any other manufacturer.”

The 2012 CSI Study is based on responses from owners and lessees of 2007 to 2011 model-year vehicles. The study was fielded from October through December 2011. Lexus ranked highest in the J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction with Dealer Service (CSI) Study from 1991-1995, 1997-2001, 2006, and 2009-2012.

 

Check out the full story here:  http://pressroom.lexus.com/releases/lexus+ranks+highest+luxury+brand+2012+jd+power+csi+study.htm?view_id=30313

Don’t Let a Scratch Put a Ding in Your Day!

A beautiful, unblemished paint job is the mark of a well-kept vehicle.  If you take pride in your car, keep your vehicle looking pristine for years to come with these easy tips:

1.  PARK AWAY FROM STORES. Take the time to park a few places away from the entrance to a store - and away from other cars in the parking lot. This avoids the most common source of dings - doors being opened carelessly.

2. AVOID SCRATCHED CARS. After all, they got that way somehow. And you don't know whose fault it was. The driver of a scratched, bent-up car isn't as likely to be careful about your car either.

3. DON'T PARK ON THE STREET. The more people there are driving by, the higher the possibility for a scratch or a ding.

4. DON'T PARK UNDER CERTAIN TREES. Avoid parking under pine trees, or other trees that drop branches, cones, sap and litter. Birds in these trees can also drop, well, their own product.

5. AVOID CERTAIN CAR WASHES. Some car washes use automatic whirling brushes; some of these haven't been changed in a long time and could harbor debris and garbage. Use brushless car washes, or do it by hand instead.

6. DRIVE IN THE CENTER LANE. On a freeway, oncoming traffic can throw debris into the left lane (in the US, where we drive on the right side of the road). Staying in the middle lane avoids this to some degree, as well as trash on the right side of the road.

7. STAY OFF OF UNPAVED ROADS. These are covered with loose stones and gravel. The gravel can fly up and hit your car. If you can, find an alternate route.

 

Check out the whole article here for the complete list of tips: http://www.ehow.com/how_5388723_avoid-dings-scratches-cars.html#ixzz1nKgZRAUy

Spring Car Cleaning

Winter weather can do a number on your vehicle.  As we approach the warmer weather, make sure your car is in top shape for Spring!  Here are some helpful tips:

Clean and vacuum inside first.

Make sure you have soap that's specifically for cars.

Never wash your car in direct sunlight.

Use a hose with a mist-spray nozzle to wet down the car and wash away debris.

Using a bucket with tepid water and soap, sponge down all areas of the car gently, rinsing the sponge frequently. Do the fender and bumper areas last.

Blast the undercarriage and wheel wells with the hose to remove as much salt buildup as you can.

Dry the vehicle lightly with a chamois or natural-fiber drying cloth.

Remember to clean the windows and mirrors!

Stay away from automated, commercial car washes on busy, winter-thaw days. Many of them recycle a certain portion of their water, to the point that they're washing with salty water at those times. Otherwise, they're alternatives for keeping your underbody clean and for when it's too cold to hand-wash.

Look for stone chips, sand abrasions and rust. Look over the body completely for stone chips, including smaller surface nicks and scratches from traction sand thrown up bytrucks. Repair them immediately with a touch-up kit (a small bottle of touch-up paint plus a special brush for application, usually inexpensive and available at the dealership). Make sure the spot is clean and dry, without any loose or sharp edges, and apply primer if bare metal is exposed. Have a body shop repair larger patches of rust.

Lubricate your locks and hinges. Consult with your owner's manual and use a graphite lubricant on your locks if recommended. Applying a small amount of petroleum-based lubricant to door and trunk hinges might also silence any creaking that started during winter.

Inspect your weather-stripping. Get any that looks mildewy, cracked, or brittle replaced right away. According to advice from the International Carwash Association, spraying weather-stripping with silicone spray will ensure that the water will bead away.

Inspect your car's underbody for rust and winter damage. If there are any suspicious areas, have a mechaniclook at them, and fix them immediately if needed. Pay special attention to brake components (sticky calipers, corroded brake lines), and exhaust components (rusted clamps, crumbling tailpipes, holes forming in muffler) that might have salt or slush damage. Suspension and steering pieces such as bushings, strut mounts, springs and tie rods are also susceptible to winter damage.

Looking for more ideas?  Check out the whole article at: http://autos.aol.com/article/spring-clean-your-car/

Extend the Life of Your Vehicle

Do you love your car and hope that you can enjoy it for many years to come?  Here are some tips that might help you extend the life of your vehicle:

1. Be patient during the break-in period

You’ve bought your dream car and now you want to make it last at long as possible in top condition. Here are some things to remember as you pull it out of the dealer’s lot:

• During the break-in period, typically the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km), keep your speed under 55 mph (88 kpm) or to the speed recommended by your car’s manufacturer.
• Avoid heavy loads on the drive train, such as towing trailers, and loading the roof rack or trunk with heavy construction materials.
• Do not allow your new car to idle for long periods — this is good advice for the life of your car, but especially during breakin. The oil pressure generated by doing so may not be sending oil to every part of your engine.
• Use only light to medium acceleration, keeping the engine rpms below 3,000 for the first few hours of driving.

2. Drive with care everyday
Being car considerate shouldn’t stop after the break-in. Drive with care every day and your car will reward you with longer intervals without repair.

• Do not race your car’s engine during start-up.This is a quick way to add years of wear to your engine, especially if it’s cold outside.
• Accelerate slowly when you begin your drive.The most wear to the engine and drive train occurs in the first ten to twenty minutes of operation.
• Warming the engine by letting it idle in the driveway is not a smart idea.The engine doesn’t operate at its peak temperature, resulting in incomplete fuel combustion, soot deposits on cylinder walls, oil contamination, and ultimately damaged components.
• Put less strain on your engine and automatic transmission by shifting to neutral at red lights. Otherwise, the engine is still working to push the car even while it’s stopped.
• Avoid driving at high speeds and accelerating quickly, especially when it’s very hot or very cold outside. Such driving behavior will result in more frequent repairs.
• Extend the life of your tires with careful driving. Observe posted speed limits. Avoid fast starts, stops, and turns. Avoid potholes and objects on the road. Don’t run over curbs or hit the tire against the curb when parking. And, of course, don’t burn rubber.
• When turning your steering wheel, don’t hold it in an extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds. Doing so can damage the power-steering pump.
• Consolidate your short driving trips. Most of the wear and tear — as well as the pollution your car generates — takes place in the first few minutes of driving. Doing several errands at once, during low traffic hours if possible, will keep your engine happier longer.

3. Buy gas at reputable service stations

Ask whether the gas you buy is filtered at the pump and if the station has a policy about changing the pump filters regularly. If you get a song and dance, find another gas station. Some stations don’t have pump filters, making you more vulnerable to dirty gasoline. Other stations may not mix alcohol and fuel properly — or worse, water down their product. Find a station you trust and stick to it.

4. Don’t fill up if you see the tanker

If you happen to see a gasoline tanker filling the tanks at your local gas station, come back another day or go to a different station. As the station’s underground tanks are being filled, the turbulence can stir up sediment. Sediment in your gas can clog fuel filters and fuel injectors, causing poor performance and possibly necessitating repairs.

5. Go easy when you’re stuck

When stuck in mud or snow, don’t make the problem worse by damaging an expensive component. Gently rocking in an attempt to free the car is fine. But if it looks as though you’re really stuck, don’t keep at it. Throwing your car from forward to reverse repeatedly, as well as spinning tires at high speeds, can generate lots of heat and spell trouble for transmissions, clutches, and differentials. It may be cheaper in the long run to call the tow truck rather than risk big repair bills down the road. It’s a good idea to carry a traction aid in the trunk, such as sand, gravel, or cat litter.

6. Lighten up your key chain

Does your car key share a chain with a dozen or more other keys? That’s a pretty heavy load hanging off the car key when it’s in the ignition.The weight, combined with bouncing while you drive, can wear out the tumblers inside the ignition and eventually lead to ignition switch failure.To add years of service to your ignition switch, purchase a lightweight key chain that allows you to separate your ignition key from the others. Drive with only the ignition key in your ignition. If your ignition key “sticks” when you try to turn on the car, it’s a warning that your ignition switch is about to fail. Replace it before you get stranded.

 

To read the full list of 74 (that’s right, 74!) car-care tips, check out:  http://www.rd.com/money/74-car-care-tips-to-keep-your-automobile-in-topnotch-condition/

Yes, You Can Learn How to Change a Flat

 

Knowing how to change a flat tire can save you time and money.  Be more in charge of your vehicle by learning these easy skills courtesy of ehow.com:

1. Put the car in park on level ground and apply the parking brake. Place manual transmission cars in gear. Make sure you have pulled off the road. Turn the engine off and turn on the hazard lights. You may want to open the hood to indicate to other drivers that you are stopped for repairs.

2.  Place a wheel chock or a large rock behind (if facing uphill) or in front (if facing downhill) the diagonally opposing wheel to prevent the car from rolling. Do this even on a slight incline. Get out the spare, a lug nut wrench (tire iron) and the car jack.

3.  Remove the hubcap, if necessary.

4.  Loosen the lug nuts, which hold the wheel in place, before jacking up the car: Place one end of the lug nut wrench over a lug nut. Use a hollow pipe (about 2 feet in length) for leverage by slipping it over the end of the lug nut wrench. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the lug nut. Loosen the lug nuts in a star pattern, first loosen one a few turns, then loosen the one opposite. Work across the tire until all the lug nuts are loose and unscrewed slightly.

5.  Carefully jack up the car (see 'Jack Up a Car Safely'). Check your owner's manual for the correct and safe place to put the jack. Jack the car up a little higher than is necessary to remove the old tire so there is room to put the new, full tire on.

6. Remove the lug nuts all the way and set them aside in a place where you won't lose them and they won't roll away. The flat tire should be hanging from the threaded studs now.

7.  Remove the flat tire and set it aside.

8.  Lift the new tire onto the wheel studs. If you're confused about which is the right way to put the new tire on, check for the valve where you add air, it always faces out.

9. Replace the lug nuts. Tighten them the same way you loosened them: Give each nut a few turns, first one, then the one opposite, working around the wheel in a star pattern. Try not to tighten adjacent nuts consecutively.

10. Slowly lower the jack and remove it.

11. Tighten the lug nuts again as much as you can.

12.  Put the hubcap back on.

Check out the whole article with a video walkthrough here: http://www.ehow.com/video_1863_change-flat-tire.html

Safe driving! 

Show Your Car You Care!

Valentine’s Day is next week!  How do you show your car how much it is loved?  Here are some tips to make this Valentine’s special:

• Take your vehicle to it’s favorite car wash.

• Check your vehicles fluids and make it feel cared for.
• Take the scenic view during your commute
• Just take time to listen.  Is your engine trying to tell you something?
• Make a mix CD of all your favorite car tunes.
• Buy it that accessory it always wanted. 
• Drive safe! 

Can you think of any more ideas?  Let us know!