FALL • WINTER 2018-2019
ON THE ROAD AGAIN AN OLYMPIC PENINSULA GUIDE TO AUTOMOTIVE MAINTENANCE, SAFETY & LEISURE
fixing a flat page 3
hybrid cars page 4
brake problems page 9
AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PRODUCED BY PENINSULA DAILY NEWS AND SEQUIM GAZETTE
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CONTENTS
FALL • WINTER 2018-2019
ON THE ROAD AGAIN
3 TOOLS TO FIX A FLAT TIRE 4 FLEXIBILITY OF HYBRID CARS 5 OUT-OF-TOWN BREAKDOWNS 8 THANKSGIVING TRAVEL TIPS 9 HANDLING BRAKE PROBLEMS 10 NAVIGATING TRAFFIC JAMS 11 TAILGATING PARTIES
Produced and published by the PENINSULA DAILY NEWS & SEQUIM GAZETTE Advertising Department Offices: 305 W. First St., Port Angeles, WA 98362 360-452-2345 • peninsuladailynews.com 147 W. Washington St., Sequim, WA 98382 360-683-3311 • sequimgazette.com
Terry R. Ward regional publisher Steve Perry general manager Eran Kennedy advertising director Brenda Hanrahan and Laura Lofgren special sections editors
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The United States and Canada have two of the lowest minimum age driving requirements in the world. Minimum driving age requirements vary by the state and province in the U.S. and Canada, respectively; however, in many areas of the U.S., drivers can begin driving with a learner’s permit around the age of 14 (drivers with learner’s permits often must be accompanied by fully licensed drivers), while the minimum driving age in most Canadian provinces is 16 (it is 14 in Alberta). Throughout much of Africa, including in countries such as Egypt, Kenya and Morocco, the minimum driving age is 18. The Central American countries of Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua also make young people wait until the age of 18 before they can get behind the wheel. Much of South America is the same, with only Argentina (17) and Chile (17 with parental approval) allowing young people to drive before they turn 18. Many countries in Asia, including China (18), India (18 for cars, 16 for gearless bikes under 50 cc) and Japan (18 for cars and motorcycles over 401 cc), also have higher minimum age driving requirements than the United States and Canada. — Metrocreative
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What items do you need to fix a flat tire? sure any you are considering are compatible with your car or truck. • Lug wrench: A lug wrench is Flat tires are a nuisance, but even the necessary to remove hubcaps or wheel most well-maintained vehicles can be covers. vulnerable to the occasional flat. Drivers should determine if their Ensuring tires are properly inflated vehicles require a special tool to remove and in good condition can help drivers wheel covers. avoid accidents, but won’t necessarily Such information will be indicated in make tires immune to flats. the owner’s manual, which should be The following are some essential kept in the vehicle at all times. items that all drivers should keep in • Wheel wedges: Wheel wedges can their vehicles so they can quickly and be placed in front of or behind tires to correctly replace flat tires. prevent the car from rolling while driv• Spare tire: Spare tires are typiers change their flats. cally located in the trunk beneath the When changing a rear tire, place the carpet-like mat covering the area. wedges in front of the front tires. SUV drivers might have their spare When changing a front tire, place tires mounted on the back of their vehicles, but some are located beneath the them behind the rear tires. • Miscellaneous items: While the automobile. aforementioned items are all that’s Periodically inspect spare tires to necessary to change a tire, some miscelmake sure they are inflated. laneous items can facilitate the process When buying or leasing new cars, of replacing a flat. drivers should always confirm if the In their cars, drivers can keep a small vehicle comes with a spare. • Jack: A jack is necessary to change cloth bag containing a pair of gloves, a flashlight, batteries to go with the a flat tire. flashlight, a poncho to keep them dry Scissor jacks are widely used and tend to be the jacks most people keep in should they need to change a tire in the their trunks. These jacks are lightweight rain and a ball cap that can keep rain or sunlight out of their eyes so they can and won’t take up much space, and the focus on the job at hand. handle is typically the tire iron that It’s also a good idea to keep a blanket comes with the vehicle. in the trunk of your car so passengers Some jacks are specially designed to fit the vehicles they came with, so when can stay warm inside while the flat tire is replaced. shopping for replacement jacks, make
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Understanding the flexibility of hybrid vehicles By Sam Nugent Hybrid vehicles have been on the market for more than two decades. However, until recently, many people were reluctant to adopt the technology for fear of being stranded with a dead battery. But recent advances in hybrid technology have made huge moves forward. You now will find that most manufacturers are producing hybrids in their line, and you might have noticed a surprising number of them beside you on the road as you drive to work. If you aren’t familiar with hybrid technology or recent improvements, you might still be harboring some misconceptions about these efficient and reliable drive-train technologies. Let’s take a look at a few facts about hybrid vehicles. HOW THEY WORK Quite simply, hybrid vehicles rely on two sources of power: the traditional internal combustion engine and a longrange battery power system. At low speeds, the car is entirely driven by the battery, such as cruising through school zones or parking lots. At higher speeds, the gasoline engine takes over to power the car. The gasoline engine also recharges the battery system so there is no need to plug in most hybrids (although some of the newer models are equipped with plug-in technology to improve battery life). When in cruise-control mode, the hybrid might use both battery and gas engine modes depending on whether it is simply maintaining constant speed (battery power) or needs a boost on hills or passing other vehicles (gas engine). BENEFITS OF DRIVING A HYBRID For some, the greatest benefit of a hybrid is the reduction in greenhouse emissions the technology offers. One of the first hybrids available in the U.S., the Toyota Prius is estimated to have reduced CO2 emissions by nearly 12 million tons. Combined with the myriad other makes and models that have been introduced in the 17 years since Prius came on the scene, the global benefit is impressive. However well-intentioned the buyer might be, though, there is no denying the significant WIIFM — what’s in it for
me — factor, which we can point to as lower cost of ownership. It is common for hybrid vehicles to cut in half the miles per gallon estimated fuel consumption. This means a hybrid vehicle can save the owner nearly half of his or her annual fuel bill. Over 10 years of driving the savings will be significant, easily offsetting the difference in the new car cost of hybrids. Given the hybrid’s ability to stretch the cost of driving over longer distances, owning a hybrid can provide some peace of mind because of its insurance against future gas price hikes. IMPROVED CHARGING TECHNOLOGY Recently, automakers also have been incorporating plug-in capabilities to their hybrid models, giving owners the flexibility to charge their vehicle’s battery packs by plugging into a charging station or even on a standard home outlet in the garage. To get the most out of your hybrid, you also will have to consider your driving style. Hybrids might boast much higher fuel economy figures on the window sticker, but they aren’t accurate if you’re
constantly flooring the car at every stoplight. That’s because a hybrid’s ability to save fuel depends on the balance of internal-combustion and electric power, and that varies based driving conditions. Because of this, hybrids tend to greatly improve gas efficiency in stopand-go city driving conditions but only minimally assist on highway cruising. Remember, not all hybrids are created equal. The “hybrid” label simply identifies a vehicle with two types of power supply: internal combustion and electric motor. Do your homework when choosing a model. BATTERY LIFE EXPECTANCY Most manufacturers warranty the batteries for about eight years, or 100,000 miles, so if it fails prematurely, your vehicle might be covered. As a hybrid crosses the 100,000-mile mark, the battery systems that power the drivetrain will start to wear out and fail. While there’s no onboard “test” for the lifespan or health of the battery, the best indicator of a properly functioning pack is the vehicle’s fuel economy.
If the battery is working correctly, fuel consumption shouldn’t change all that much. But as the battery begins to fail, the gas engine will start to pick up more of the slack, and you’ll see a decline in miles per gallon. If your hybrid is getting lower gas mileage than it used to, it might be time to change the battery. Do not try to simply replace the bad cells, as there is no way to know how much longer the remaining cells will last, even if you could reliably identify the failing cells. It’s best to start with a fresh battery. They can be expensive to replace, ranging from $1,000-$6,000, but there is promise of lowered cost in the future as battery technology continues to get better and better. CONCLUSION A hybrid car can be a great way to save money on gas, provided you pick the right one for you and have a good idea of how it will be used before you buy. With so many hybrids on the market, and with more coming in the future, there is certainly no shortage of options.
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NOVEMBER 2018
How to prepare for an out-of-town breakdown
5
By Metrocreative
test, which involves placing a penny head first into several tread grooves across the tire. If the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head is always visible, then your tires are shallow and worn and need to be replaced. But if part of Lincoln’s head is always covered, your tires can probably withstand the trip. Worn tire treads can make it hard for tires to safely navigate roads in inclement weather, so don’t discount the importance of this simple step. • Bring along some basic tools. Pack some basic tools, such as screw drivers, wrenches, pliers, a trolley jack, a battery charger and, of course, duct tape, which might help you temporarily solve some issues on your own. This is especially important for drivers who intend to visit remote locations where mobile phone networks may be inaccessible and the nearest tow truck might be far away. Hone your tire-changing skills before hitting the road and make sure tools are still capable of performing the kind of basic maintenance that might help your vehicle safely return to civilization. Vehicle breakdowns happen, even while on vacation. Some advance preparation can help drivers avert out-of-town disasters.
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Road trips make for excellent getaways. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend excursion or a lengthy vacation, driving yourself to your destination is a great way to travel, especially for families looking to save money. Though no one wants to think about the possibility of a vehicle breakdown while out of town, such things do happen. How prepared drivers are can go a long way toward determining how affected they and their passengers will be if this happens. • Get a checkup before skipping town. It sounds simple, but many drivers may overlook the importance of vehicle checkups before departing on weekend getaways or longer trips. A full checkup (including an oil change if the recommended interval has passed or is approaching) can uncover any problems that might derail a trip. • Examine your options in regard to emergency roadside assistance. Insurance providers typically offer emergency roadside assistance to policy holders for a nominal fee, and memberships in clubs such as AAA also are inexpensive. That’s especially true when drivers compare the cost of extra coverage or AAA membership to the potential price tag of a tow truck and out-of-town repairs. Drivers should note that out-of-town repairs may require costly overnight shipping of parts so travelers can get back on the road as quickly as possible. Roadside assistance offered through an insurance company or motor club may include tow trucks free of charge up to a certain number of miles, allowing travelers to get their cars back home without breaking the bank. • Inspect tires, including your spare. Many a road trip has been derailed or thrown off schedule due to a flat tire or tires. Before departing, check the condition of your existing tires, including the spare, as well as the air pressure in each one. Many vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing tires at six years, regardless of tread wear. Tires that get heavy usage should be replaced even more frequently. To determine if tread wear is something to worry about, perform the penny
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Follow these Thanksgiving travel safety tips
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By Metrocreative The week of Thanksgiving is a busy time of the year to travel that’s marked by a large number of people traveling to see loved ones. In 2017, AAA projected 50.9 million Americans would journey 50 miles or more from home on Thanksgiving. While many people look forward to seeing their loved ones, the sheer volume of cars on the road during Thanksgiving week makes it a dangerous time to travel. A 2013 study examining the previous five years of data on traffic crashes in Alberta, Canada, found that long weekends have 18 percent more deadly accidents than nonholiday weekends. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Thanksgiving is the most dangerous holiday for driving. The most recent data available from NHTSA’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System indicates that there were 764 crashes involving a fatality during Thanksgiving 2012. In comparison, there were 654 crashes involving a fatality during Christmas that year. This Thanksgiving, drivers should make it a point to follow these tips to ensure they get to their destinations safely and soundly. • Check the forecast before you go. Weather can be unpredictable around Thanksgiving. Conditions may be sunny one day and then cold and icy the next. Stay up-to-date on the latest weather forecasts and road conditions as you prepare for your trip, making sensible decisions about traveling if there is inclement weather.
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• Get your vehicle inspected. Have your vehicle inspected in the days before you hit the road. A mechanic’s diagnostic checkup and routine servicing, such as topping off fluids and changing windshield wipers, can make driving safer. • Keep your fuel tank more than half-full. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) suggests keeping the tank full when temperatures are extremely cold. This is because condensation can build up in near-empty gas tanks, potentially freezing fuel lines and leaving you stranded. • Opt for airline updates. Flights can be delayed or canceled when weather is poor. Many airlines will now text travelers who are
It pays to prep tires for winter roadways By NewsUSA Driving safely in the winter can be a challenge, even for the most experienced driver. In fact, an alarming three in five winter drivers (61 percent) have lost control of their car during winter weather, according to a new winter driving survey by Michelin.
subscribed to updates or frequent-flyer programs and apps. That’s a convenient and free bonus. • Plan for stops. Drowsy driving and distracted driving are extreme dangers across North America. Take breaks to avoid drowsiness, and only use a mobile device when safely pulled over at a rest stop. • Leave plenty of time. There are bound to be many travelers come Thanksgiving week. Build extra time into your trip so you don’t have to speed or rush to make it on time. Thanksgiving is a big travel holiday. Make it to family dinner safe and full of smiles by following various safety trips during your travels.
It comes as no surprise, then, that three quarters of respondents reported feeling nervous on winter roads (77 percent), with 64 percent of drivers saying they avoid winter driving altogether if the forecast predicts snow. But you don’t have to avoid getting in your car in the winter. With a little preparation — starting from literally the ground up — you can travel safely even when the weather is less than ideal. “Tires are one of the least-discussed safety devices on your vehicle, so many consumers aren’t aware of just how much they contribute to keeping you safe on the road,” said Ron Margadonna, Michelin winter tire expert. TIRES continues on 11 >>
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Recognizing potential vehicle brake problems sive repairs if they’re not addressed promptly. Maintaining a vehicle is more than • Pulling: If the car pulls to one side just a way to protect one’s financial when applying the brakes, this might investment. indicate brake pad linings are wearing Vehicle maintenance can protect down unevenly. A brake adjustment against accidents and make the road might be necessary. safer for drivers and their passengers as Pulling also can be indicative of an obwell as their fellow motorists. ject or debris caught in the brake fluid. Fully functioning brakes are an im• Less responsive: If when pressportant component of automotive safety. ing on the brake pedal the brakes just In its 2015 Crash Stats Report, the do not seem to be as effective as they National Highway Traffic Safety Admin- once were, or it is necessary to press the istration said that brake-related probpedal harder for the brakes to engage, lems accounted for 22 percent of crashes there may be a brake fluid leak or an air where vehicular failure was cited as the leak. cause of the collision. Check under the vehicle to see if any Bad brakes are particularly notorious fluids are pooling. for rear-end collisions. • Pungent odors: A burning smell Faulty, worn brake lines, anti-lock might be indicative of worn out brake brake system malfunctions and worn pads and friction on the tires. brake pads and discs are some potential Each of these issues require immedibrake problems. ate attention. It is important that motorists learn to • Vibrations: Certain vibrations recognize the first symptoms of brake may indicate brake issues. Rotors can trouble so they can address issues before become warped from metal-on-metal they put drivers, their passengers and rubbing, potentially leading to a failure other motorists at risk of accident or of the vehicle to brake properly. injury. Vibrations might also indicate tires • Unusual noises: Screeching, are misaligned. grinding, rubbing and high-pitched These problems can be properly assounds are common indicators that sessed by a trained mechanic. Do not let brake pads, rotors and other parts of the potential brake problems go unchecked. braking system need attention. Keeping brakes in good working order Worn pads can cause damage to other helps drivers stop more readily and vehicle parts, resulting in more expenavoid collisions.
By Metrocreative
NOVEMBER 2018
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ON THE ROAD AGAIN
DID YOU KNOW?
The disclaimer “Objects in mirror are closer than they appear” is featured on passenger-side mirrors of vehicles manufactured in the United States, Canada, India, Korea and Australia. These mirrors are convex, which means they distort the size of objects viewed in the mirror, and as such, distorts the perception of how close or far away objects are from the driver’s car. However, this distortion allows for the reflection of a wider field of view on the side of the vehicle to help eliminate blind spots. In the United States and Canada, driver’s side mirrors are flat, or “planar.” Dual convex mirrors are not currently the norm on vehicles manufactured in North America based on requirements implemented by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 111 and the Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 111. Elsewhere, such as in Europe, dual convex mirrors are included on vehicles. Many automotive companies support having two convex mirrors on the sides of cars to eliminate blind spots, as well as reduce the driver’s need to twist his or her head to the left when turning or changing lanes. However, flat mirrors have been required to avoid distortion and give drivers the most accurate assessment of traffic to their left for changing lanes, called “unit magnification.” This might soon change, though. According to a 2013 statement from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “The agency intends to reevaluate existing side-mirror requirements (FMVSS No. 111) to determine whether convex mirrors should be harmonized with European requirements.” Currently, drivers can modify their driver’s-side mirrors to include a convex mirror add-on as long as the mirrors also have the required flat portion.
— Metrocreative
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Staying focused is key to navigating traffic jams By Metrocreative Many drivers have found themselves traveling down the highway at a good speed when, seemingly out of nowhere, vehicles begin to slow down. In such instances, drivers assume there must be an accident ahead, only to ultimately see nothing before traffic once again begins to move. What just happened? If this situation sounds familiar, it might be comforting to know you are not alone. Traffic is a big problem in many cities, and is one of the leading causes of commuter anxiety. A 2012 study from researchers at Washington University in St. Louis noted that long commutes cut into exercise time, which has the trickle-down effect of high blood pressure, greater body weight and lower fitness levels. The study also stated that being exposed to the daily hassle of traffic can lead to chronic stress. Furthermore, traffic can expose drivers to air pollution, which the World Health Organization said contributes to 3.2 million preventable deaths worldwide each year. Traffic jams occur because of
accidents, distractions on the side of the road, vehicle breakdowns, roads in disrepair and other obstacles. But “phantom accidents” also contribute to their share of slow downs. According to Berthold Horn, a MIT computer scientist, all it takes is one driver to create a traffic jam. It is similar to the ripples of tossing a stone into a lake, and the science of nonlinear dynamics refers to this as “emergent phenomenon.” But Horn noted there might be a way to prevent phantom accidents. Horn said trying to maintain a distance halfway between the car ahead and the car behind you can ease traffic somewhat and produce improvements in commuting time, though everyone on the road needs to do his part for this to work. Other ways to reduce traffic revolve around being a more observant and considerate driver. • Avoid being a rubbernecker, looking at things on the side of the road for too long. • Pay attention to cars entering the roadway and give them the space they need to flow into traffic effectively. TRAFFIC continues on 11 >>
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Make your next tailgating party the No. 1 hot spot
1. Collapsible kitchen kits, retractable cutting boards and disinfecting wipes provide a simple prepping and serving Tailgates down! system for tailgating on the go. Portable grills are full of mascotAfter the big game when it’s time to stamped brats ready to be washed down retrieve your gear, you’ve got a clean by the contents of ice cold coolers. The scene includes enough family and and secure tote ready for action the next weekend. friends to leave no leftovers behind. 2. The Washington Huskies boast Rivalry-fueled rhetoric, bag toss touranother unique tailgating scene. naments and face painting mark one of On the shores of Lake Washington, the most anticipated traditions of the many fans “tailgate” in the multiple year. harbors. The fall brings out the best of the Often folks hop from one boat slip to weekend tailgating warriors! the next. From the most serious of fans to the However, the most crowded of slips folks that don’t quite manage to get in will be those that have a portable HDTV the gates, generations merge in an unparalleled congregation that spans from system to watch the best games live. 3. Aboard any tailgating vessel, fire college communities to the biggest cities extinguishers are a requirement, and in America. first aid kits also are a good idea. And these fans can now watch the Having these things on hand, on wagame from that very tailgate. Gridiron battles and ballpark miracles ter or land, will save the day of a loved one or a fellow fan. generate cherished memories. 4. What about night games? From the days of listening to the score A waterproof flashlight or lantern can updates of conference rivals already in provide even the weariest of fans an opaction via AM radio, to trying desperportunity to pack up camp after the big ately to get that connection on a smartphone to follow live streaming, the inter- game safely and efficiently. Using lights with clamps leaves both est in the status of the games you’re not hands available to avoid an amateur at has always been there. one-handed acrobatic packing effort. Holding the key to that game might Don’t forget a set of extra batteries to make you the most popular member of ensure your light shines and you all can your tailgating party. depart safely. With a few tips, your tailgating party The season is upon us! can become the most popular “hot spot,” Given these tips, fans will stay safe where your friends and family can conand connected. nect and enjoy the pregame or even the With cherished memories engraved game if they don’t have tickets. forever, your tailgating experience will Here are four tailgating scenarios and tips to keep you connected, safe and now be the “hotspot.” Good luck to your team, and have a ready to enjoy your tailgating experigreat season! ence.
By Brandpoint
<< TRAFFIC from 10
11
All drivers are urged to use the proper tires for their seasonal climate. Most cars these days come outfitted with all-season tires, but if you live in an area with severe winter conditions (heavy snow, ice or freezing temps), they might not be sufficient. All-season tires are designed to perform well in a large range of conditions, but aren’t built to handle winter’s worst. Alternatively, winter tires are designed to perform better in a wide range of wintry conditions, such as wet roads, snow, ice and freezing temps. They also improve your vehicle’s grip and performance in these conditions and shorten your braking distances for better safety. For winter driving safety at all times, practice these additional tips: • Inspect your lights. Examine your headlights and brake lights to ensure that they’re fully functioning. This is especially important during winter fogs or heavy snow. • Make sure your wipers are in proper working condition. Buy washer fluid with antifreeze solution to protect visibility and ensure that windshield blades are in good working order.
• Always have an emergency kit. Carry an emergency kit with gloves, blanket, flares, a shovel, flashlight, water, extra batteries and cell phone charger, as well as an emergency contact list with important phone numbers. • Check your battery. Battery capacity is decreased significantly by cold weather. Before the winter months, have your mechanic check it to ensure that it’s at peak performance. It’s also a good idea to carry jumper cables in your car, should you ever need someone to give you a boost.
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• If you’re entering a roadway, get to highway speed as soon as possible. • Be an observant driver to avoid collisions or near-misses. • Do not cut off other drivers, which can lead to road rage or tailgating. • Maintain a safe speed while driving and avoid reckless maneuvers. • Service your car on a schedule so it is less prone to breakdowns.
• Check a GPS or map app on your mobile phone to see which roads have the most congestion, and consider taking an alternate route. Each of these suggestions can help reduce, but not always prevent, traffic. Accepting that traffic can occur, leaving extra time to reach destinations, having relaxing or your favorite music at the ready, and realizing that the traffic wave will end eventually can help motorists cope with traffic.
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Complimentary car wash with service *And much more! See salesperson for details.
✁
10% OFF RACK SYSTEMS & ACCESSORIES
30,000 miles of premium quality oil changes
1ST
AS VOTED IN THE BEST OF THE PENINSULA 2018
125 point comprehensive inspection
Complimentary vehicle history report
1ST
BEST BEST AUTO DEALER AUTO REPAIR CLALLAM CO. CLALLAM CO. WILDER WILDER AUTO AUTO
COUPON EXPIRES JAN 31, 2019
10
15
or $
MAIL-IN REBATE
EXPRESS SERVICE with Purchase of Castrol
✁
360•457•8511 HWY 101 & Deer Park Rd. Port Angeles, WA www.wilderauto.com
TIED FOR 1ST BEST BESTDEALER AUTO AUTO DEALER CLALLAM CLALLAM CO. CO. WILDER WILDER AUTO AUTO
Premium Quality Oil Change COUPON EXPIRES JAN 31, 2019
WILDER RENTALS Starting at
9
$
99*
✁
WILDER
ADVANTAGE PLUS
VIP CARD
Pre-Owned Vehicles
1ST
1ST
BEST OIL CHANGE CLALLAM CO. WILDER AUTO
*HALF DAY SERVICE RENTAL. PLEASE CONTACT DEALER FOR DETAILS. COUPON EXPIRES JAN 31, 2019
WILDER RV
CONSIGNMENTS • SALES • SERVICE
Park Model Cabins
WE ONLY CERTIFY THE BEST!
WILDER AUTO You Can Count On Us!
(360) 452-9268 • 888-387-0687 101 & Deer Park Rd, Port Angeles • www.wilderauto.com