Auto Magazine

Defensive Driving: Techniques to Keep You Safe on the Road

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/03/06 in On the Road with Comments Off

There is always a chance of a serious accident every time you get behind the wheel. Not only are you traveling at high speeds, you also have to keep an eye on everyone else around you. Since so many things can go wrong on the road, the best way to stay safe is to practice defensive driving techniques. While there are dozens of defensive driving techniques, these are the four of the most effective.

Eliminate Distractions

A distracted driver is far more likely to cause an accident than a driver that is focused on the road. If you regularly eat, talk or text while driving, then it is time to change those harmful tactics. Studies have proven that using a cell phone while driving can reduce reaction times up to 20 percent. Your conversation or meal is not important when you are risking your life and the lives of everyone else on the road is not

Stay in One Lane

It is far easier to remain safe when remaining in one lane on the road. Changing lanes requires you to change your focus, which is always dangerous on the road. You also have to rely on the other drivers seeing you changing lanes, which is always a dangerous proposition. It is impossible to go anywhere without ever changing lanes, but you should do it as little as possible.

Do Not Tailgate

Tailgating the car in front of you is one of the most dangerous things you can do while driving. You need to have plenty of room between cars in case you need to suddenly react to avoid an accident. If you are tailgating and the car in front of you suddenly hits the breaks, then you are not going to have enough time to slow down to avoid hitting them. You should be at least three to four seconds behind the car in front of you on the road, and this number should be doubled during poor driving conditions.

Be Aware of Surroundings

Defensive driving only works if you are looking out for everyone else on the road. A bad driver can always hit your car while you are driving extremely carefully. The only way to constantly stay safe is to keep an eye on your fellow drivers, especially if any appear to be driving erratically. If you are constantly expecting the other drivers to do something dangerous, then you will always be prepared for anything that can happen.

Getting to your destination safely should be your top priority every time you sit behind the wheel. If you use these four defensive driving techniques, then you should be safe no matter what you experience on the road.

Informational Credit to Moses and Rooth, Attorneys at Law

Six Risks Of DIY Auto Repairs, And How Make Sure You Fix The Problem

by Anita Ginsburg on 2015/03/04 in Auto Repair with Comments Off

There is a fascination among car owners to “do-it-yourself-and-save-money” on car repairs. Unfortunately, not everyone is mechanically inclined or can follow a mechanic’s guide. Specialized tools may be required such as torque wrenches, impact wrenches, lifts and more. Some automotive systems should not be considered DIY projects if the owner has no formal mechanical training. There are six basic risks of DIY projects and how you can fix the problem.

The Transmission Is Not A DIY Project

Transmissions require specialized tools for all the little rings, bits and pieces. All the pieces must go together just right and hooked up to the drive train and engine perfectly. If not, the least that can happen is the car stops shifting or moving forward on the road, requiring a tow. At the worst, the transmission can fall apart in pieces inside or drop off the vehicle in front of everyone. Avoid transmission problems by having a professional shop periodically inspect and make any needed repairs.

Parts Cannot Be Substituted

Car engines and systems are built with specific parts. An engine may be used by the manufacturer in several different makes and models of cars. This might give the impression that parts can be substituted from one car to another. Using the wrong parts can seriously damage or destroy your engine. Only use parts made for your car’s make and model. You can find good deals on used auto parts to save money, say the experts at Mike’s Auto Towing.

DIY AC Recharge Kits

This is the second car system that is not a DIY project. DIY auto HVAC recharge kits do not remove the old refrigerant, the kit adds new refrigerant on top of old. This is the same as pouring new oil in the crankcase without removing the old oil first. Refrigerant leaks can occur, contaminants can enter the system and worst of all, if the new refrigerant is different than the old, serious chemical reactions can occur. This system is best left in the hands of professionals.

Windshield Repair

Many DIY windshield repair kits are available on the market today. The resins used can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some resins only coat the problem instead of fixing the problem. The repair may not hold up to travel on the road, and your insurance company might not cover the cost of a DIY repair.

Brake Repairs

Unless you have formal training to work on a car’s brakes, do not attempt it. This is another system that has to be assembled perfectly in order to work. The untrained eye cannot spot worn or broken parts. It is best to take your car to a professional to have the brakes inspected, maintained or repaired.

Alignment

Specialized equipment is needed to align a car’s tires to keep it moving safely down the road. DIY adjustments can throw your car’s alignment off so badly that your tires, wheel hub and brakes could sustain damage.

While it makes sense to do some DIY repairs to save money, the best policy is to leave delicate systems and specific repairs to the professionals. It might seem expensive, but a safe car is far better than a broken down or unsafe one.

Need a Truck, but Don’t Want to Pay a Fortune for Gas? 5 Models with Reasonable Gas Mileage

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/03/02 in Auto Manufacturers with Comments Off

A pickup truck is a versatile workhorse that can fulfill a variety of duties. Unfortunately, pickup trucks have never been known for delivering good fuel efficiency. This can put you in a bind if you need a truck to support your business or lifestyle, but don’t want to pay a fortune for gas. If you are thinking about buying a truck, but would like a reasonable gas bill every month, you might consider a few of the following models with the best mileage:

Toyota Tacoma

With an EPA fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, the 2015 Toyota Tacoma proves to be an efficient daily-driver. Although a V-6 engine is offered, the four-cylinder engine is clearly the most efficient option. Some of this truck’s standard features include an anti-lock braking system, a five-speed manual gearbox, a four-speaker sound system, and electronic traction control.

Dodge Ram 1500

The 2015 Dodge Ram 1500 offers two very efficient engine choices. Despite the V-6 engine’s strong performance, it still manages an impressive fuel economy rating of 25 mpg on the highway. On the other hand, the optional Eco-diesel engine is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the open road. According to Topspeed.com, the diesel-powered Ram 1500 actually delivered 33 mpg when cruising along the highway.

Ford F-150

For good reason, the F-150 has remained the top-selling truck in America. In an effort to boost gas mileage, all F-150 models are now constructed using lightweight aluminum. While the F-150 offers several engine choices, the new 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine has been specially tuned for efficiency. Gas mileage stands at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Amazingly, the 325-horsepower engine is strong enough to tow about 8,500 pounds.

2015 GMC Canyon

Equipped with a peppy four-cylinder engine, the newly-redesigned GMC Canyon offers an exciting blend of power and efficiency. Drivers can expect to get 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the freeway. As a testament to the 2015 Canyon’s outstanding performance and build quality, Autoweek named the Canyon as their “Best of the Best Truck”. Some of the truck’s standout features include LED running lights and a rear CornerStep bumper.

2015 Chevrolet Colorado

Featuring essentially the same chassis as the GMC Canyon, the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado also offers excellent gas mileage. While the four-cylinder model is rated at 27 mpg on the freeway and 20 mpg in the city, the V-6 version is almost as impressive. When fitted with a powerful V-6 engine, the new Canyon can still return a commendable 26 mpg on the highway.

No longer do truck owners have to suffer from poor fuel efficiency. These five truck models will definitely keep fuel consumption to a minimum, while allowing you to get the job done.

The information for this article was provided by the professionals at Tonka 4-Wheel Drive Ltd., who specialize in truck accessories in Edmonton.

Procrastination Station: What Car Repairs to Get Out of the Way First

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/02/28 in Auto Repair with Comments Off

If you are ready to make the required repairs to your vehicle, then there are a few naturally needed first. While some repairs that can wait until a later time, due to financial concerns or lack of time, there are parts that must be replaced quickly to keep a vehicle operating safely.

Serpentine Belt

Modern vehicles have a long serpentine belt that operates several mechanisms such as the power steering components, alternator, and water pump that are necessary to drive. The best time to replace this belt is when it is worn or stretched. A knowledgeable mechanic can inspect this belt to see if it is lose or damaged during a tune-up to replace it before it breaks while on the road.

Front and Back Lights

Your vehicle has a lot of lights that require brightly lit lightbulbs at night, or during severe weather such as fog or rainstorms. Occasionally, inspect the headlights, turn signals, and brake lights to verify the lightbulbs are working optimally. To understand the lightbulb sizes needed, check your vehicle’s manual or find the information at an online site. This is one repair that simply can’t wait too long.

Vehicle Tires

Tires in excellent condition are a vital part of any vehicle to maintain safety while on the road. According to Road-Mart Tire, replacing tires correctly is a professional job for a qualified mechanic. They will know the correct size and type to use on a particular model while installing tires properly. Expert tire installation can increase your vehicle’s gas mileage while making it safer to drive, especially in bad weather.

Engine Hoses

If you lift the engine hood on a vehicle, you will notice several hoses attached to components such as the antifreeze container, water pump, and radiator. Modern vehicle hoses are made to last longer than in the past but still wear out eventually. You can inspect hoses visually by looking for splits and tears that indicate fluids can leak. When the automobile is completely cool, use your hands to feel the hoses to find small holes or degraded material.

Brake Components

The brake components on vehicles get a frequent workout in all types of road conditions. The brake pads wear out the fastest due to short trips that require stopping often for stoplights and stop signs. You will hear a squealing noise as brake pads become worn that signals it is time for a professional wear. Unless you are an expert at vehicle repair, this is definitely a job for a local automobile technician who may find additional problems such as defective calipers, rotors or drums.

It is easy to get busy and delay your vehicle’s repairs, leading to a breakdown on a secluded country road, or busy highway that requires an emergency tow at an inconvenient time. A better alternative is to avoid procrastination by having a regular maintenance schedule with a trusted mechanic or Marianna FL auto repair company for your vehicle.

Avoid a System Override: How to Keep Your Car Tech System from Getting Hacked

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/02/27 in Auto Security with Comments Off

These days, it often seems that computers are used to control everything, and computer technology in cars is growing increasingly popular. Computers have even been used in cars for several decades. However, today’s car computers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, controlling critical systems like lights, brakes, transmission, engine control, gauges, windows and locks. Some even have Internet access, file storage and other features you’re used to seeing on your phone, tablet or laptop. In some vehicles, drivers can also connect their phones, laptops or other portable devices. It may sound like a technological marvel, but today’s cutting-edge cars have an ugly side. Take a look at the facts about car technology system dangers, and how to protect yourself and your information:

Hackers

Many experts are worried that hackers may begin targeting these systems, potentially with serious consequences for drivers. In fact, concerned researchers have already been able to successfully commandeer these cars’ systems, doing everything from disabling the brakes to tightening the seat belts. What’s worse, automakers have been slow to react. While protective systems and devices are in the works, there is not yet a product or service available for public use that thoroughly addresses these vulnerabilities.

Taking Car Jacking to a New Level

It’s not difficult to imagine the problems this situation could cause. For instance, with a bit of education, unscrupulous individuals could hack into and disable a car’s locks, brakes and engine to car-jack the driver. In a similar scenario, car thieves could unlock and disable the alarm system of a parked vehicle remotely, then casually drive away with it. The financial implications of this are also serious. For now, these sophisticated systems are available mainly on high-end vehicles and represent a substantial loss.

Motorist safety is an even bigger concern. Someone with enough malicious intent could override a vehicle’s safety systems, like the brakes and airbag. The perpetrator would also be able to kill a moving vehicle’s engine, causing the driver to completely lose control of the car.

The Safety of Sensitive Information

While some hacking options are more extreme, another relevant concern is the ability to steal sensitive information by hacking into a car’s information or infotainment system. If people keep files, and other personal information, hackers could remotely hack into the car’s system to obtain information. While many are worried about hackers stealing or controlling the car altogether, it is important to remember that the information on these systems is growing increasingly sensitive and personal.

Protecting Your Own Car System

While many of these situations are hypothetical, many developers and researchers worry about car and passenger safety as technology advances. If you have an advanced car-tech system, it is important to protect yourself against potential dangers, and avoid a system override. Protect yourself from this emerging threat with a few of the following ideas:

Use a steering wheel lock to secure your parked car. Even if it’s been hacked, it can’t be driven.
Have a tracking device installed on your car. If it gets stolen, its location can be traced. Many cars will have a tracking device in the system, but if the system is compromised an unrelated tracking device on the car will reveal the location.
Always park in a safe and secure location, like a locked garage or a well-lit parking lot with 24-hour video surveillance, which tend to deter most criminals. Avoid parking along the street if possible.
Be sure any service is performed by a reputable repair garage. A dishonest one could hack your car to make it look like something’s wrong then charge you to "fix" it.

Much like the Internet, high-tech cars are convenient and useful, but they also come with risks. Although the automotive industry is beginning to address the digital safety of its vehicles, it’s currently still up to you to keep it protected. By utilizing these tips, you can help to keep yourself and your property safe.

The information for this article was provided by the professionals at Thomson Schindle Green Insurance and Financial Services, who specialize in exotic car insurance in Medicine Hat.