Category Archives: Safe Driving

The Cold Facts About Tire Pressure

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It is always alarming to see one of the gazillion warning lights on your dashboard illuminate. If you drive a newer vehicle that has an integrated Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) you may find you’ve been recently haunted by the light shown on the right. Seeing the TPMS light more often in winter is not uncommon, but it is also not something you should ignore.

First, it is important to understand how your TPMS works. The system use sensors technology to alert drivers when tire pressure in one of the tires goes below a predetermined level. When tire pressure in one or more of your drops, the light comes on.

Since air pressure decreases in frigid temperatures, drivers tend to see the TPMS light illuminate. According to tire experts, air pressure in a tire goes down 1-2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature change. While you need not necessarily be surprised if  you see the TPMS light come on during cold spells, you should be sure to manually check the air pressure of your tires.

It is very important to check the pressure of your tires when it is cold outside and to keep tires inflated to the proper levels. Reasons include:

  • Low tire pressure can make a vehicle handle poorly
  • Tires tend to wear out much faster when they are not  properly inflated
  • Under inflated tires tend to overheat, which could lead to a blowout
  • Low tire pressure reduces gas mileage and costs you money

Check the pressure of your tires monthly. In order to obtain the most accurate pressure level, wait until tires have cooled – about 30 minutes after parking.

Resolved: Make Auto and Tire Care a Priority

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Are you the kind of driver that does not think twice about your car unless it doesn’t start? Do you only notice your tires if they are flat? Perhaps your 2016 New Year’s resolutions should include being more committed to preventative auto and tire care. Regular car and tire maintenance not only make sense for protecting and prolonging the life of your vehicle and tires, it also means that you’ll be safer on the road.

When it comes to taking care of your tires, the two main things you want to check regularly are tire pressure and tread depth. 

Make a note on your calendar to check your tire pressure at least once a month. Refer to your owner’s manual to find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. Don’t forget to check the pressure of your spare tire as well. 

Check the tread depth of your tires by using the penny test. Hold a penny so you can read “In God We Trust” across the top. Insert it into several different sections of the tire and look at Lincoln’s head.  If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it is time for a new set of tires. If the tread is in good shape, Abe’s head will be covered to about the forehead hairline.

To keep your vehicle running properly and performing at its best, you must stay on schedule with recommended regular maintenance services. It is always far less costly in terms of time and money to catch problems before they escalate. The following is a list of the services that are typically recommended, but be sure to consult your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s suggested services and frequency. 

  • Coolant Flush and Replacement
  • Oil Change
  • Fluid Checks – Power Steering and Brake
  • Brake Inspection
  • Check Belts & Hoses
  • Filters – Air and Fuel
  • Battery & Cables
  • Lights
  • Exhaust System
  • Windshield Washer Fluid & Wiper Blades

Both your vehicle and tires will benefit from regulartire balancing and rotation service performed in accordance with your owner’s manual recommended schedule. Tire balancing promotes even tire wear and provides a smooth ride by properly adjusting the wheel weight distribution around the vehicle. Tire rotation is an essential maintenance step that will greatly extend the life of your tires. Manufacturers have specific recommendations, so be sure to refer to your owner’s manual tire rotation guidelines.

Establishing a regular care routine allows you to drive with confidence knowing that you are traveling safely where ever the road takes you. You will also get to enjoy your vehicle and tire investment much longer.

Here’s wishing you a safe and fun-filled new year!

All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive

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Although the terms may sound similar, all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are very different systems. On all-wheel drive vehicles, the drivetrain has a front, rear and center differential to provide power to all four wheels of a vehicle. On a four-wheel drive vehicle, the drivetrain has two differentials and a transfer case to provide power to all four wheels of a vehicle. All-wheel drive is found on cars and crossover vehicles, while trucks and truck-based sport utility vehicles usually have four-wheel drive. Both all-wheel and four-wheel drive systems improve vehicle acceleration in slippery conditions, and can enable better handling on some types of roads or terrain.

All-wheel drive and  four-wheel drive can be worth the extra investment if you live in an area that gets heavy rain or snowfall for much of the year. Also, if you tend to do a lot of off-road driving or driving on unpaved roads, all-wheel or four-wheel drive will be a highly beneficial investment for you. Additional advantages to having all-wheel drive or four wheel drive include better traction with towing and often in some cases, added resale value.

There are drawbacks to having an all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicle. All-wheel and four-wheel drive systems mean lower fuel economy and often require more maintenance than standard vehicles. An advantage that four-wheel drive offers that  all-wheel drive does not is that it can be turned off, so you can only use it when you need it, saving that extra fuel cost.

If you are considering whether or not to invest in an all-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle for safer winter driving, keep in mind that selecting the right type of tire may be the best thing you can do to enhance safety and performance.

Five Signs That Your Brakes Need Attention

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Something we all take for granted each day is our vehicle brake system. Brake systems involve a number of integrated components, all of which are subject to wear and eventual failure. Brake system failure is one of the most dangerous car problems you can experience, and it could put your life and the lives of your passengers in danger.

Fortunately your vehicle has ways of letting you know that your brakes may be compromised. By paying attention to these five signs that you may have brake system issues, you can have problems addressed before they put your safety at risk.

1. Hearing Strange Noises

If you hear a high, screeching sound when you apply your brakes, there is a good chance your brake pads need to be replaced.

2. Vehicle Pulls to One Side

If you notice that your vehicle gravitates to one side when you are braking it might indicate that the brake lining is wearing unevenly or that the brake fluid is contaminated.

3. Brake Pedal Doesn’t Feel Right

If your brake pedal feels spongy or sinks to the floor, this could be an indication of a leak in the braking system. A leak affecting the brake system could be an air leak in the brake hose, or a brake fluid leak.

If the brake pedal feels hard or very difficult to press, your vehicle might have a blockage in the brake line or have an issue in the vacuum system.

4. Feeling Vibration When Braking

You feel a vibration in your brake pedal during breaking that is similar to the vibration you feel when the anti-lock brakes feature engages when your vehicle starts sliding. A vibration or pulsating brake pedal can be a symptom of warped rotors.

5. Grabbing When Braking

If you experience a grabbing or jerking feeling when you apply the brakes, it could be an indication that the rotor is unevenly worn or that the brake fluid is contaminated and needs to be changed.

Along with these signs, the warning light on your dashboard will illuminate if your vehicle’s computer system senses any problems. Although sometimes these lights can come on even when there is not a problem, you should always take your vehicle in and let your service technician determine whether or not your brakes are okay.

Safe Winter Driving: Accidents Aren’t the Only Hazard

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Major storms and extreme low temperatures have been creating some major driving problems. While snow and ice cause an increased risk for collisions on the roads, the cold temperatures also leave your vehicle vulnerable to damage. Cautious winter driving means not only being careful on the road, but also paying a little extra attention to car care.

You may avoid cold weather problems that could leave you stranded by watching these three things:

1. Weak or Dead Batteries

Extremely low temperatures strain your car battery because the chemical reactions needed to make it work happen more slowly. If you already have an old battery, this can cause it to fail even more quickly. Have the battery tested. If it needs replacement, do it right away!

2. Thickened Fluids

Freezing temperatures cause thickening of fluids your car needs to run properly, including transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, oil, and antifreeze. Making sure these fluids are maintained at proper levels will help you avoid trouble.

3. Lost Tire Pressure

Tires typically lose 1 pound per square inch (psi) for every 10 degrees of temperature drop.  Under inflated tires do not perform well, plus the tire pressure loss can eventually result in a flat tire. Be sure to check inflation more frequently as the air gets colder.

Along with following these preventive measures, it is a good idea to always be prepared for a road emergency. This is especially true in frigid temperatures. You may want to throw some winter items in your trunk, along with your roadside emergency kit, such as blankets, gloves, boots, packaged hand warmers, and a folding shovel. You may also want to keep bottled water and snacks in the car, just in case you find yourself hungry and waiting for a tow!

Snow Tires for an SUV?

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Dear Tracy,

I thought that having a 4-wheel drive vehicle meant that I would not need snow tires, but my SUV’s handling on icy roads is not as great as I thought it would be. Would having snow tires installed help?

Rob T.

Dear Rob,

An SUV does offer many winter driving advantages. When you drive on snow covered roads, or try to get up  an unplowed driveway, you will be especially appreciative of that 4-wheel drive. Unfortunately, when it comes to slippery ice and slush, the power advantage of the 4-wheel drive system does not provide much benefit.

SUVs and other 4-wheel drive vehicles usually come equipped with large, wide all season tires. While great for driving in most conditions, these standard tires are less than ideal for winter driving conditions. The type of rubber used does not grip well in cold temperatures, and the tread pattern is not designed to channel large amounts of water on the road. Also, tires with a larger surface area may not cut through snow effectively, and be likely to hydroplane.

Snow tires, or winter tires are developed from a softer rubber than all season tires. This allows them to provide better road grip and handling. Winter tires also feature an open tread design, which gives them better handling capability on slush and snow. When it comes to stopping and cornering on snow and ice,  winter tires will give you a definite advantage, especially with four-wheel drive vehicles, which tend to be heavier and take longer to come to a stop.

If you are doing a lot of driving in slick and icy conditions, winter tires are well worth the investment. Using them will also help you extend the usable life of the your all season tires!

New Year’s Car Care Resolutions

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As we head into a brand new year we find ourselves thinking about starting or getting back into some good habits. For 2015, why not add a commitment to car care to your list? Not only does good car and tire care make sense for protecting and prolonging the life of your vehicle and tires, it also means that you and your passengers will be safer on the road.

Here is my suggested list of simple car and tire care actions:

Check Tire Pressure & Tread Depth

At least once a month, make it a point to check your tire pressure. You can find the proper pressure for your vehicle’s tires listed in your owner’s manual. Keep in mind that the maximum pressure is not the same as the recommended pressure.  Don’t forget to also check the pressure of your spare tire.

Two or three times a year you can check the tread depth by using the penny test. Hold a penny so you can read “In God We Trust” across the top. Insert it into five different sections of the tire and look at Lincoln’s head.  If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your treads are excessively worn, and it is time for a new set of tires. If Abe’s head is covered to about the forehead hairline, the tread is in good shape and you probably do not need new tires.

Tire Balancing & Rotation

Tire balancing and rotation should be part of your regular service and done according to your owner’s manual recommended schedule. Tire balancing provides a smooth ride and assures even tire wear by properly adjusting the wheel weight distribution around the vehicle. Tire rotation is an important maintenance step that will greatly extend the life of your tires. Manufacturers have specific recommendations, so it is advisable to refer to your owner’s manual tire rotation guidelines to ensure proper tread wear.

Keep Up on Regular Maintenance

To keep your car running properly and performing at peak levels, it is essential to stay up-to-date with recommended regular maintenance services. Like us, our vehicles need regular check-ups to maintain good health and catch potential problems before they become serious issues. The following is a list of typical services – consult your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s recommended services and frequency.

  • Coolant Flush and Replacement
  • Oil Change
  • Fluid Checks – Power Steering and Brake
  • Brake Inspection
  • Check Belts & Hoses
  • Filters – Air and Fuel
  • Battery & Cables
  • Lights
  • Exhaust System
  • Windshield Washer Fluid & Wiper Blades

Once you establish a solid car care routine, you can drive with added confidence that you are traveling safely and cost efficiently wherever the road takes you. Happy New Year!

Home for the Holidays – Make it a Safe Trip!

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Image courtesy of Pintrest

The American Automobile Association Year-End Holiday Travel Forecast reports that 98.6 million people will travel 50 miles or more over the holidays, and that year-end holiday travel volume will reach the highest peak since AAA began recording holiday travel stats in 2001.

According to the AAA forecast, nearly 91 percent of all travelers will celebrate the holidays with a road trip, which is an increase of 4.2 percent from last year. With today’s national average price of gas at $2.53 per gallon (70 cents less than last year), the report also says that lower gas prices will help boost disposable income this holiday season.

Holiday road trips can be a fun part of the season’s festivities, as long as you are safe and prepared. Whether you are driving home or to another special destination for the holidays, here are a few preparation tips:

  • Make sure your vehicle is ready! Get a service check including: battery, brakes, wipers, lights, oil, coolant, fluids, and tire pressure.
  • Download an app like GasBuddy to help you find the best gas prices along the way.
  • Whether it means updating your GPS, printing a fresh set of Mapquest directions, or picking up a paper version from a gas station, make sure your maps are current.
  • As you pack the car, you might be tempted to remove things you normally keep in the trunk in order to make room for packages and luggage. Be sure not to leave behind roadside emergency items such as jumper cables or a folding shovel.

Whatever your plans might be, have a Merry Christmas and the happiest of holidays!

All-Wheel and Four-Wheel – Nice for Snow and Ice

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Dear Tracy,

What is the difference between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive? Are these systems better than two-wheel drive?

Larry K

Dear Larry,

All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are different, but similar types of systems. The drivetrain of an all-wheel drive vehicle has a front, rear, and center differential to provide power to all four wheels. The four-wheel drive vehicle’s drivetrain has two differentials and a transfer case to supply power to all four wheels. The systems are similar in that they both can enhance acceleration in wet or icy conditions and improve handling in some driving situations. Cars and crossovers will feature all-wheel drive, while trucks and sport utility vehicles tend to have four-wheel drive.

Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive can offer significant advantages, depending on the type of driving you do and the climate in which you do your driving. If you encounter a great deal of rain, snow, and ice, four-wheel drive can be a life-saver.  A-wheel drive or four wheel drive also provide superior traction with towing and add to the resale value of a vehicle.

On the down side, all-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles tend to have lower fuel economy and require more maintenance than standard vehicles. Both consume more gas, but four-wheel drive, unlike all-wheel drive,  can be turned off so there is the option to only use it, and the extra gas, when you need it.

Winter Car Battery Care

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Dear Tracy,

Do car batteries require any maintenance? I have heard that car batteries run out of energy more quickly in the winter and I want to do all that I can to make sure I am not left stranded in the cold.

Lucy M.

Dear Lucy,

You are very wise to be thinking about battery care, now that the weather is taking an icy turn! It is always best to have maintenance and inspection checks done on everything, including your battery, before winter strikes.

Ask your auto care professional to test and inspect your car’s battery.  If needed, they may also clean the battery tray and terminal posts. Often the terminals are sprayed with a protective solution to inhibit corrosion. Along with the battery check, your auto maintenance professional will inspect your alternator and starting system to be sure everything affecting the performance of your battery is working as it should be.

As for batteries running out of energy faster in the winter, it is true that extreme cold can have an adverse impact on battery performance. Cold temperatures inhibit the power of chemical reactions within the battery and increase the battery’s internal resistance, both of which can cause a reduction in cranking power. Since motor oil tends to get thicker at lower temperatures, engines need an increased amount of cranking power in cold weather.

Watch for the signs of a low or dying battery, so you can address the problem before you end up stranded. A starter that is slow to turn may mean your battery is failing or that alternator wiring problems are keeping the battery from charging fully. Dim headlights that  become brighter when you accelerate the engine is another battery problem sign. A simple thing you can to is to look for a purchase date on the battery itself – the battery case should have a decal listing its expected life. The battery should be replaced if it is approaching the end of its expected use life.

Last but not least, always carry a set of jumper cables in your vehicle so that you will be prepared if you ever do have to deal with a dead battery.