On the
SPRING/SUMMER
A publication of ROCK VALLEY PUBLISHING • Spring/Summer 2020
ROAD
AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE
• MAINTENANCE TIPS • TEEN DRIVERS • ROAD TRIP FUN
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AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE
Spring/Summer 2020
Scary sounds What noisy brakes may be telling you
The only noises many drivers ever want to hear coming from their vehicles are the sounds of their favorite songs blasting from their car stereos. But cars sometimes make noises that aren’t nearly as inviting as music. Noises that seem to pop up when applying the brakes can be especially scary for motorists. No one wants to drive a vehicle with faltering or suspect brakes, so learning to distinguish between the two most common brake noises can be a wise move for drivers.
Grinding brakes
The automotive retailer Pep Boys notes that grinding noises indicate a serious problem with the braking system. According to CarsDirect.com, there are two major causes behind the grinding noise made by brakes. If the grinding sound is audible when pressing on the brake pedal, this likely because the rotor disc is coming into contact with part of the caliper. This typically occurs because the brake pads or rotors are extremely worn down, causing the steel backing of the worn out pad to grind against the rotor. In such instances, Pep Boys recommends replacing the brake pads immediately. If the grinding noise is audible while the vehicle is in motion, debris might be stuck inside the brakes. Drivers might be able to dislodge this debris by repeatedly moving their cars forward and backward in a safe place, such as a driveway. If that does not work, have the brakes serviced by a qualified mechanic.
Squealing
Many drivers are familiar with the high-pitched squealing sound that comes from their vehicles or those of fellow motorists. That squeal, while certainly not music to the ears, might be a good thing. That’s because Pep Boys notes that some brake pads are equipped with small steel clips that serve as wear indicators. When brake pads have worn down, these devices produce a squealing sound to let drivers know it’s time to get new brake pads. But squealing can be indicative of other things as well. Squealing noises are sometimes heard immediately after brake pads or rotors have been replaced. In such instances, the noise typically subsides within a day or two once the pads have been broken in. Glazed pads also can create a squealing sound. When calipers stick, the brakes stay partially applied, producing excessive friction or heat. The heat causes the brake pads to glaze. (METRO CREATIVE)
Low transmission fluid levels can contribute to various symptoms. Keeping an eye on fluid levels and recognizing low fluid symptoms can keep cars running smoothly.
Signs transmission fluid is low STOCK PHOTO On the Road
Vehicles require all sorts of maintenance to operate safely and efficiently. Contrary to popular belief, motorists need not be amateur mechanics to keep their vehicles running strong. Major vehicle repairs are best left to the professionals, but drivers can learn to identify the causes of relatively minor issues that, if left untreated, can cause significant damage. For example, vehicles may exhibit certain signs that indicate their transmission fluid needs replenishing. In many of the following instances, drivers may only need to top off the transmission fluid in their vehicles. However, if issues persist, schedule an appointment with a mechanic.
Overheated transmission
Smoke billowing from a car is a sight no driver wants to see. But as bad as it may look, smoke coming from a car may only indicate the transmission is overheating due to lack of fluid. Smoke also can be indicative of a host of other problems, so if transmission fluid levels are not low, consult a mechanic. Loss of power and a burning smell also may indicate low transmission fluid levels. No one wants to hear noises coming from their brakes. However, such noises are often a car’s way of telling drivers that brakes need to be serviced. STOCK PHOTO On the Road
Erratic shifting
Drivers can notice how their vehicles shift whether the cars or trucks have automatic or manual
transmissions. Transmission fluid may be low if shifts appear to be delayed or faster than normal or if the vehicle appears to be slamming into a new gear. The automotive service provider Aamco notes that shifting issues related to transmission fluid may indicate the presence of a leak. If the issue disappears after refilling transmission fluid but then reappears shortly thereafter, consult a mechanic.
Pausing when engaging gears
A two- to three-second pause when shifting into drive and reverse is another indicator that transmission fluid levels are low. The automotive experts at Firestone note that manual transmissions require fluid to keep gears lubricated, while automatic transmissions rely on fluid to create the hydraulic pressure necessary to power movement within the transmission. When fluid levels are low, shifting from park to drive or reverse can take longer than it should.
Slipping transmission
Vehicles that are not staying in gear also may be in need of transmission fluid. However, a slipping transmission also may indicate significant damage to the transmission has already occurred, so this issue should be brought to the attention of a mechanic.
(METRO CREATIVE)
Spring/Summer 2020
How to keep your car on the road longer Americans are keeping their cars longer, which means keeping up to date on vehicle maintenance and being proactive with repairs. STOCK PHOTO On the Road
Did you know that one in four Americans keep their cars for an average of seven years or more? Nearly another third (29%) say they typically own their car for three to four years. With Americans keeping their vehicles on the road for the better part of a decade, it’s important to implement consistent maintenance habits to ensure a smooth ride. Hankook Tire’s latest Gauge Index survey examined how long drivers keep their cars. The following are tips for drivers looking to keep their cars cruising well into the 2020s:
Keep it on the calendar Whether consistency comes based on a mileage amount or a specific date on the calendar, setting and keeping regular tuneup appointments is a simple way to keep your car healthy. Regular maintenance inspections can be a great time to evaluate other parts of your car, not just what’s beneath the hood. For example, most drivers (78%) also use their maintenance routine as a chance to check their tires. And, be sure to examine your
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windshield wipers and headlights to see if they need to be replaced.
Adjust for the seasons Hankook also found that over two-thirds of Americans (69%) say all-season tires are interchangeable with winter tires. In some cases, that might be true, but if you live in a climate with drastic weather swings as the seasons change, that can be like saying your favorite T-shirt is suitable for a frigid winter storm. Winterizing your vehicle when the temperatures drop can help it last not only through the colder months, but also avoid potentially bigger problems down the road. Consider swapping the all-seasons for a set of winter wheels.
Repair and replace (when needed) Sometimes, a routine oil change will shed light on a maintenance issue that requires more attention. In that event, consider your repair vs. replace decisions carefully – is the option you’re choosing a temporary bandage, or will it help lengthen the life of your vehicle in the long run?
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For many, this depends on what needs replacing, and whether that part is considered “essential.” For example, only 30% of drivers will replace their tire pressure monitoring system sensors if they were to break. However, these sensors can offer vital information about the pressure in your tires, which has a lasting impact on your driving experience.
Clean it up Keeping your car clean is about more than appearances – it can also help keep it running smoothly for much longer because dirt and grime can cause corrosion to the paint and even more, especially if it gets into the mechanics of the car. For those driving over salted winter roads, regular car washes become an even more significant step to extending your vehicle’s lifespan, as winter road salt can be particularly corrosive. No matter if your vehicle is brand new, or you’re looking to hold on to an old-timer a little longer, these tips from Hankook tire can keep you steering straight into the next year, decade and perhaps even beyond.
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SPRING/SUMMER AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE A publication of ROCK VALLEY PUBLISHING LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 • (262) 728-3411
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AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE
Spring/Summer 2020
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Buying a new car? Purchasing a new car can be an exciting endeavor. Cars and trucks are among the most expensive items a person will buy over the course of his or her lifetime, and no one wants to spend more than necessary. Getting a good deal on a car or truck may come down to researching rebates and incentives. The online automotive resource Edmunds. com says incentives and rebates are used by automakers to spur sales of particularly slowselling models. Incentives and rebates also are used to entice previous customers to stay loyal to a brand. Potential buyers who are aware of incentives and rebates are being offered can use that knowledge to negotiate lower prices on desired vehicles. Here is a close look at some of the incentives that may be available. Dealer incentives Dealer incentives are factory-to-dealer offers that reduce the true cost to buy a vehicle from the factory, according to Cars.com. Dealers are under no obligation to pass on these cost-cutting measures to customers, but many do just to move stock. Cash-back rebate This well-known incentive is based on manufacturers offering cash rebates directly to customers when they make a purchase before a given date. Cash-back rebates are generally offered on models that may not be selling as well as manufacturers had hoped. Some rebates are rolled over from month to month until desired quotas have been met. Think of a rebate as a coupon of sorts applied to the cost
Spring/Summer 2020
AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE
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Tips to navigate automobile incentives and rebates
of the vehicle.
Low APR financing With this incentive, dealerships offer low interest rates on vehicles financed through their preferred lenders. Rates may range from 0 to 5 percent. Keep in mind that buyers’ credit scores need to be fairly high to qualify, and the low APR may only be on certain models. Lease specials Customers who lease may find manufacturers often offer special lease programs through captive financing companies. These are subsidized leases based on a residual value that’s much higher than the actual worth of the vehicle at term’s end. Dealers are playing with the numbers to bring down the monthly payment and thereby make their vehicles seem more appealing. RealCarTips says that sometimes dealerships will apply cashback rebates or financing incentives towards a lease instead of a financed vehicle. Bonus cash incentive This type of incentive generally targets a specific demographic, such as recent college graduates or military personnel. These incentives are not widely advertised, so it may be necessary to inquire about what is being offered. Government rebates Some savings are realized not through the manufacturer or dealer, but from government rebate programs. For example, tax credits may be available to buyers who purchase cars that run on alternative fuels or hybrids. (METRO CREATIVE)
New Hampshire Oil Undercoating is the industry leader in technology advanced protective vehicle coatings. The product is designed to displace moisture and remove oxygen, making oxidation (rust) impossible. The oil is thin enough to spray yet thick enough to be drip-free. It is self-healing and designed to “creep” as your vehicle drives down the road, allowing the oil to reach every crevice possible and spread to those places that are impossible to get to otherwise. NHOU is solvent free, non-toxic, and nonhazardous. It is also designed to penetrate through rust to the bare metal, unlike other undercoatings that cover and encapsulate rust. For more information on NHOU and additional products, please visit www.nhoilundercoating.com.
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AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE
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CHARGE UP YOUR CAR BATTERY KNOWLEDGE Vehicles consist of many essential components to keep them running efficiently and effectively. Car and truck owners should have an understanding of how their vehicles function so they can diagnose and address problems as they arise. Car batteries are an important component of any vehicle. Even though engines are the powerhouse of any car or truck, without a battery, the engine wouldn’t be able to work. According to Firestone Complete Auto Care, car batteries work by providing a jolt of electricity necessary to power all the electrical components of the vehicle. The battery also works in conjunction with the alternator to power the electronics in the car, according to the automotive information blog Autosessive. While the car is running, the alternator reverses the current produced by the battery, recharging it as a result. This happens during long journeys, so people who drive for short bursts of time may find that their batteries will not have a chance to recharge and may not have the longevity desired. There is quite literally a lot riding on a functioning battery. No one wants to be caught stranded by a dead battery, so drivers may wonder if there are any indicators that may signal the battery needs replacement.
Slow turnover
If a vehicle does not immediately start or if the cranking is sluggish and takes longer to start, it may mean the battery is starting to fail.
Frequent, short trips
Drivers who make frequent, short trips may find their car batteries do not have time to fully recharge. This, coupled with overtaxing thanks to a lot of accessory use, may cause the battery and the alternator to have shortened life spans. Understanding how car batteries work can help drivers keep their cars running smoothly.
Low battery fluid levels
If the fluid level is below the energy conductor inside, it is often indicative of overcharging and excessive heat.
Corrosion
Corrosion buildup, dust, dirt, and grime on battery connections may cause performance problems. Inspecting and cleaning the terminals can prolong the battery life.
Odors and leaks
Battery leaks can produce a sulfur odor similar to the
Age
Most batteries have a finite life span. A well-maintained battery can last up to five years. Neglect can reduce that life expectancy considerably.
Bloated or cracked battery case
Replace the battery immediately if the case is cracking, as it could be because excessive heat is swelling the battery.
(METRO CREATIVE)
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STOCK PHOTO On the Road
smell of a rotten egg. This can become problematic over time, and leaks may indicate an aging or damaged battery.
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Spring/Summer 2020
AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE
Stay comfortable and alert on road trips Few car enthusiasts can resist the siren song of the open road. When the open road beckons, answering its call can open the door to adventure and unending possibilities. Road trips tend to dwindle when winter arrives, and for good reason. Wet, wintry conditions can make roads more dangerous and compromise motorists’ visibility. Many drivers wisely avoid the roads as much as possible in winter, and statistics on crash deaths reflect that caution. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, July, a month when many people take to the road on summer vacations, had the most crash deaths of any month in 2017, while February, a month when drivers traditionally stay home, had the fewest. Such statistics underscore the importance of staying comfortable and alert behind the wheel. As motorists prepare to hit the road again this spring, they should keep these tips in mind to ensure their road trips are as safe as they are adventurous.
Get ample rest
Drivers should build frequent stops and nightly rest into their road trips. Doing so can help to combat the drowsiness that develops when spending long hours behind the wheel staring at the road ahead. Drivers should pay attention to how they’re feeling and pull over if their eyes begin to feel heavy or their minds begin to wander. Each of these are signs of fatigue that could prove deadly to drivers, their passengers and fellow motorists.
Share driving duties Sharing driving duties is a great way to reduce driving-related eye strain. The Vision Council notes that driving requires the eyes to stay in constant motion as they focus and refocus on approaching objects. Eyes also are in constant contention with distractions like oncoming headlights or the glare of the sun. These factors combine to strain the eyes.
As drivers spend more and more time behind the wheel, their eyes become tired and their vision becomes less reliable. Sharing driving duties can ensure a fresh set of eyes is behind the wheel at all times.
Maintain proper posture Proper posture can make drivers less susceptible to the aches and pains that can develop during long car trips. In addition, the auto insurance provider Geico notes that studies have shown that proper posture, which involves sitting an appropriate distance from the steering wheel, makes drivers less likely to suffer severe injuries to the head, neck and chest in front- and rear-end collisions. Road trips make for great getaways. By taking steps to remain comfortable and alert behind the wheel, drivers can make road trips that much more enjoyable. (METRO CREATIVE)
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AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE
Spring/Summer 2020
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