Auto Magazine

Road Trip: How To Prepare Your Car For The Long Miles

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/02/08 in On the Road with Comments Off

While a road trip to see a baseball game or visit family may be a good time for you, it may not be as fun for your car. Therefore, you must take steps to make sure that it can handle the journey. Let’s look at a few ways to prepare your vehicle before a long road trip.

Rotate Your Tires

Your tires will be able to handle the road better when they are regularly rotated. This enables all four tires to wear evenly and last for the entirety of their useful life. If you are going on a long trip, you can get better gas mileage when your tires grip the road better.

Get Your Oil Changed

Ideally, you will get your oil changed every 5,000 miles or so. If it has been almost 5,000 miles since your last oil change, you should do it before a trip to avoid any unexpected engine issues.

Wash the Car

Dirt, grime and other residue can eat away at the car’s exterior, which could make it vulnerable to water or sun damage. Washing your car before a trip and possibly once during your trip reduces the odds that rust can form.

Have Your Car Inspected

A vehicle inspection will reveal any minor issues that the car may have prior to going on a long journey. If nothing is wrong with your vehicle, you can hit the road with confidence knowing that you and your family will reach your destination safely.

Put Together an Emergency Kit

If you are ever stranded during your trip, you will want to be able to stay in good condition until help can arrive. This means that you should have a cell phone, portable cooking units and food that will not perish. You may also want to include blankets to keep warm and books and other activities to stay occupied.

Purchase a Remote Services Package

For cars that are equipped to receive them, a remote services package can come in handy. Your vehicle may be able to call police if it is has been in an accident or keep track of its location via GPS if it is ever stolen.

Road trips are meant to be fun adventures that you will remember forever. Therefore, make it a priority to get your car ready so it can handle as many miles as you need to put on it. It’s also important to stay alert on the road to prevent drowsy driving or accidents, which can not only damage your car, it can cause injury to you. If you are injured on the road, be sure to speak with a car accident attorney in Las Vegas.

Fine Tuning: Things to Check on Your Car Every Year

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/02/05 in Auto Maintenance with Comments Off

In addition to keeping you and your passengers safe, regular vehicle maintenance and inspections will also prevent expensive breakdowns and a drain on your wallet. Here is a look at some simple maintenance tips that will keep your car running smoothly throughout the years.

Start with the Owner’s Manual

Every driver should be familiar with their owner’s manual, and keep it in their car at all times. If you have lost your manual or one did not come with your car, this information can generally be found online. The owner’s manual will cover all of the maintenance information for that particular vehicle. This includes everything from how often the oil must be changed, to the proper tire pressure. It’s specific to the vehicle making it a valuable resource for you.

Fluids

Even if you are not comfortable changing your car’s fluids or topping them off, you should still know how to properly check them. Owners will need to read the car’s manual in order to see which fluids must be checked with the car on, and which must be checked with the car off. As a general rule, all fluids should be checked at least once a month or every few thousand miles of driving. This includes radiator coolant, oil, brake fluid, and power steering fluid.

Tires

Old or damaged tires are extremely dangerous and must be replaced immediately. Car owners should speak with experts like the Free Service Tire Company about how long their tires will last, but most will need to be replaced every one or two years. When inspecting tires, owners should look for any visible signs of damage such as rot. It is also important to inspect the amount of tread that is left on each tire. In order to increase the longevity of tires, drivers should have them rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.

Brakes

Brakes are slightly more difficult to check, and most owners will want to have this done by a professional. Luckily, there are some safety features implemented in brakes and brake pads that could give you a hint that they are ready to be replaced. Many brake pads will begin to squeak when they have become worn. Depending on your driving style, and the type of brake pads that you have purchased, they can last for anywhere from just a few months to a year or longer.

Properly maintaining your vehicle should be seen as an investment in your safety. All drivers should consult their owner’s manual before getting behind the wheel in order to understand the unique maintenance steps that must be taken for their own vehicle.

The Best of Both Worlds: Why You Should Consider an SUV Crossover

by Anica Oaks on 2016/02/03 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

Otherwise known as a crossover utility vehicle or CUV, the crossover SUV is one class of automobile that’s exploded in popularity recently. Dozens of models from a slew of manufacturers have shattered sales records over the past few years. Here are some of the reasons why the crossover SUV is an appealing option for consumers.

Flexibility and Utility

A crossover is by its very nature a more versatile vehicle than a simple sedan. Many come will all-wheel drive, which enables access to places that vehicles with low clearances can’t go. Furthermore, a CUV like the Buick Encore at Quebedeaux Buick GMC boasts nearly 50 cubic feet of storage space while a Honda Accord has under 15 cubic feet.

Admirable Fuel Economy

Despite the fact that most CUVs come with a good 180 horsepower or more, many manage to deliver surprisingly solid fuel efficiency. Since so many crossovers have four-cylinder engines, they’re usually pretty good with gas when cruising for long distances. Some are capable of up to 35MPG if you drive conservatively.

Superior Safety Records

During the 1990s, the Ford Explorer gave SUVs a bad name due to its reputation for rollovers. CUVs are far more stable thanks to their low center of gravity and technologies like Electronic Stability Control. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, crossover SUVs are safer than sedans when it comes to crash fatalities.

Above-Average Longevity

If you’ve ever worked on a truck like an F-150 or a Silverado, you know how pristine their engine bays remain after years of abuse. Since they’re higher off the ground, rust and road salt don’t do as much damage in the long run. Modern CUVs have the same advantages and won’t deteriorate as quickly as sedans.

Reasonable Repair Costs

A crossover SUV is essentially a large sedan with a better frame and a tougher suspension system. Consequently, they’re not as expensive to fix as big trucks like the Dodge Durango or the Toyota Tacoma. Oftentimes, brake jobs and shock replacements for a crossover SUV cost little more than the same procedures performed on a mid-sized sedan.

Crossovers Are Here to Stay

At this point, it’s obvious that crossover SUVs are more than just a fad. They’re beyond popular with the general car-buying public for all of the reasons mentioned here and more. The only major downside to crossover SUVs is that there are so many quality models out there to choose from.

Motorcycle Storage: 4 Ways to Keep Winter from Ruining Your Bike

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/02/01 in Motorcycles with Comments Off

Motorcycles are great. There is nothing quite like getting on your motorcycle in the warm months of spring and summer and going for a ride, having the wind in your face, and just cruising down the highway. If you are an avid motorcyclist, your bike is probably one of your most prized possessions. Unfortunately, the frigid temperatures may force you to put it away until next spring. So what do you do and how to take care of it until you can pull it out again? Here are four ways to keep winter from ruining your bike.

Fill the Tank with Fresh Fuel

Before putting your motorcycle in storage, be sure to top off the gas tank. Gasoline has a tendency to gradually break down over time. Not only will the decreased octane level cause the engine to run poorly, but it may also prompt oxidation to form within the fuel tank. Your best option is to add a highly rated fuel stabilizer to the gasoline. Furthermore, expert mechanics urge motorcyclists to avoid using low-quality gasoline at all costs. With that said it might be worth spending a few extra bucks and putting in premium gasoline at your local gas station. You also want to make sure that you want to cover your bike up and put it in a garage if you can to protect it from freezing once the cold weather hits.

Maintain the Tires

According to an experienced Las Vegas motorcycle accident attorney at Naqvi Law, poorly maintained tires can definitely cause a crash. Because the tires will be sitting in one position for an extended period, you need to keep the bike elevated off the ground. This will help prevent flat spots in the rubber. A motorcycle stand is a worthwhile investment. In the event that your garage or storage unit does not have any heat, the frigid temperatures may cause the tire pressure to drop. Never allow the tires to remain under-inflated for a long time.

Protect the Battery

If your motorcycle features an electric starter, the battery becomes an essential component. When not used frequently, a battery will slowly begin to lose its charge. Try to recharge the battery about once a month. You also must carefully inspect the battery for any signs of corrosion. Remember, corrosion can quietly eat away at the battery cables and terminals. Placing a tad bit of dielectric grease on the connections can prevent a lot of trouble.

Change the Oil

Even if you do not plan to ride your bike in the winter, make it a priority to change the motor oil. Used motor oil contains a certain amount of contaminants. If these impurities are allowed to just sit inside of the engine, it may cause the metal components to rust. Moisture is also a very big problem during the winter. Always completely drain the old oil from the engine.

By remembering these important tips, you can prevent the coldest season from damaging your bike. When the warmer temperatures finally arrive, you will be able to hit the road without making any unnecessary repairs.

Six Times You May Want To Skip A Motorcycle Outing and Drive Your Car Instead

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/01/29 in Motorcycles with Comments Off

Riding a motorcycle makes for an easy and fun way of getting around town. Whether you’re heading to work or are going on an outing, there are many times to make use of the bike. For those who want to remain safe while on the road, there are a few times when it’s important to resort to driving a car to protect yourself.

1. Maintenance is Needed

You may need new tires or have squeaky brakes on your motorcycle with maintenance that is needed. Avoid driving your motorcycle if the bike is not in perfect condition and maintenance or repairs are needed to ensure that you stay safe on the road.

2. Bad Weather

One of the most dangerous times to ride a motorcycle is when it’s raining or snowing outside. This can make the bike more vulnerable to an accident due to poor weather conditions that make it challenging to drive. You’ll be safer driving in a vehicle and can reduce your chances of an accident.

3. Popular Holidays

New Year’s Eve, 4th of July, and St. Patrick’s Day are all holidays when motorists are more dangerous on the road and tend to be drinking. Protect yourself by taking a car if you need to travel to avoid getting hit by someone who is intoxicated. If you do get injured by another driver at times like this, be sure to contact professionals like the Milwaukee injury attorneys at Groth Law Firm.

4. Heavy Traffic

It can be difficult to drive in heavy traffic when motorists are impatient and you’ll have to weave in and out of traffic. Avoid traveling on a motorcycle during rush hour or on a Friday evening due to motorists who may not see you and may come into your lane too suddenly.

5. At Night

Although you may see the road ahead of you, it can be difficult for other motorists to spot you at night. Resort to using your bike during the day when you’re more visible to other drivers.

6. You’re Tired

Operating a motorcycle requires a high level of energy and physical strength. Avoiding driving the bike when you’re tired, which can make it easy to make a mistake and get into an accident. Opt for driving a car to remain safer until you get to your destination.

Although it can be tempting to go on a motorcycle outing, it’s important to use caution and remain responsible with the bike. You should only operate the motorcycle in the right conditions and when you can use it responsibly to protect yourself and others on the road.