How to plan for a safe and fun road trip this summer

Written by Hillsboro Free Press Tuesday, 25 May 2010 19:02

Summer is the perfect time to hit the road and discover new back roads in your state or drive cross-country. A summer road trip is a great opportunity for those once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a great way to make memories with your friends and family.

A little planning and preparation will make your road trip even better. Here are some tips that can be essential to summer road trip success.

• Plan your route. One of the most exciting parts of a summer road trip is the planning stage. By getting everyone involved, you can ensure that everyone gets to visit the stops they want to see along the way.

The most important part of planning your summer road trip is mapping out your route. Numerous online resources can help you plan your...

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Time to overhaul some myths about car maintenance

Written by Free Press Tuesday, 16 March 2010 18:48

The oil filter is the engine’s main line of defense against abrasion and premature wear. The more dirt and other contaminants the filter can trap and hold the better. Knowledge may be power, but that’s only the case if you put what you know into good use.

Sure, it’s a common phrase that can be used in many different situations, but when applying it to car care, weeding through the myths can result in financial savings and longer vehicle life.

Myth: My car’s motor oil should be changed every 3,000 miles.

It is recommended that vehicle owners follow their manufacturer’s maintenance intervals while it is still under warranty. But if your car is no longer under warranty, try using a synthetic oil that can extend your oil change intervals.

The number of miles you can allow between your oil changes will depend on the way you drive and the oxidations stability of the motor oil.

Oxidation...

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A winter-driving checklist: Things you need to know

Written by Free Press Tuesday, 08 December 2009 20:52

Do not leave the car to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards. You may become disoriented and lost is blowing and drifting snow. The leading cause of death during winter storms is transportation accidents. Preparing your vehicle for the winter season and knowing how to react if stranded or lost on the road are the keys to safe winter driving.

BEFORE

Have a mechanic check the following items on your car.

• Battery

• Antifreeze

• Wipers and windshield washer fluid

• Ignition system

• Thermostat

• Lights

• Flashing hazard lights

• Exhaust system

• Heater

• Brakes

• Defroster

• Oil level (if necessary, replace existing oil with a winter grade oil or the SAE 10W/30 weight variety)

Install good winter tires

Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some...

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Teens face extra challenge with winter driving

Written by Free Press Tuesday, 08 December 2009 20:46

Winter driving conditions are a challenge for experienced drivers, but for young drivers, winter driving may be a first-time experience.

Now, before students are out of school for winter break, is a good time for parents of young drivers to have a serious conversation about driving safety in winter conditions.

Be sure your young driver knows how the brakes will react to a skid. If the car has antilock brakes, hold firmly on the brake pedal. But with non-antilock brakes, it helps to pump the brake.

Headlights should be turned on to increase visibility. And even four-wheel or front-wheel drive vehicles may encounter winter driving difficulties, so drive with care.

It’s also a good time to review some driving rules. The rules might...

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