Getting Your Teen Their First Car: A How To

Make sure you're setting them up for safety right from the start.

1. Choose the Right Car

Let's face it, if you left the decision up to your teen, you would probably end up with either a huge SUV or a suped up sports car, neither of which is particularly safe for a young, new driver. However, there are plenty of options out there to make both you and your teen happy. And with the right research, you can find a car that is not only fun to drive, but also safe and reliable, too.

Choosing a midsize car is the best way to go, according to The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety and the Insurance Information Institute. Depending on your budget, you can opt for either a new or used model - just make sure the car is in good condition with updated safety features like airbags and electronic stability control. Also, you'll want to check out crash test and safety ratings before making your final purchase.

Fuel efficiency is another important factor to consider, especially in today's economy. Unless you're willing to cover the cost of filling your son or daughter's tank each week, buying your teen a gas guzzler is probably not a good idea.

2. Get the Best Auto Insurance Rate

The truth is that no matter what car you choose, insuring your teen driver will increase your auto insurance rates. But there are some things that you can do to make these costs as manageable as possible. In fact, another great reason to opt for safety first at the car dealership is that it can help keep your auto insurance premiums down. Because safer cars tend to have a lower accident risk, they are usually less expensive to insure.

Another way to get the best auto insurance rates possible is to scope out potential discounts. If your teen is a full-time student, for instance, he or she may be eligible for a good student discount. Researching your options beforehand will help you to make an informed decision when trying to find the right car for your teen.

3. Set Boundaries

Choosing a good car and purchasing the right auto insurance are only the first steps in keeping your teen safe on the road. Talking with your teen about safe driving and setting clear rules and guidelines are also important. To ensure that your teen stays safe behind the wheel, you can:

• Limit the number of passengers your teen can have in his or her car at any one time; 
• Establish a "no cell phone" policy to ensure that your teen does not text or call while driving;
• Discuss what to do in cases of emergency, including accidents and adverse weather conditions.

Regular Car Checks Recommended During High Summer Temperatures

Staying on top of your car's systems during the height of summer can help ensure a comfortable and safe ride.

Summer can be tough on cars, especially during high temperatures when heat can destroy batteries and stress the cooling system and tires. As a precaution, these vehicle components should be checked periodically during summer to help avoid breakdowns and car problems, according to the Car Care Council.

Excessive heat and overcharging shorten the life of a battery. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which then damages the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, which will eventually destroy a battery.

To get the most life out of a battery, the council recommends having the electrical system checked to make sure it is charging at the correct rate. If your car's battery is the type that needs to be topped off, check it often, especially in hot weather and add distilled water if necessary. Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt can become a conductor, which drains battery power. If corrosion accumulates on battery terminals, it becomes an insulator and inhibits the current flow.

The cooling system also works harder during hot temperatures to prevent overheating of the engine. To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle's radiator should be 50:50. As a reminder, never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir.

As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles. This will keep the cooling system fresh and clean inside, which helps prevent corrosion and assures that the coolant has the proper boiling point and protection. A pressure test, thermostat test, a cooling fan test and a visual inspection for leaks and corrosion should also be done annually. Hoses and drive belts should be checked for cracks, bulges or frayed edges.

The radiator should be kept clean by periodically using a garden hose and a soft brush to carefully remove bugs, dirt and debris.

Tires also need special care in warmer weather as high temperatures put added stress on them. To maximize tire life and safety, check the tire condition and inflation pressure monthly, and have the tires rotated every 6,000 miles. Summer heat will cause the pressure within a tire to rise, therefore, it's important to check the pressure when tires are cold. The owner's manual includes the recommended air pressure for your vehicle's tires.

"It takes very little time and money to make sure your car runs properly during summer, and although breakdowns happen, they can definitely be minimized by taking a few extra preventive maintenance steps," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

The council reminds motorists that the vehicle's exterior also can be damaged by sunlight, UV radiation, acid rain, salt, dirt and air pollution. To protect the paint and finish, vehicles should be washed weekly and waxed every six months.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visithttp://www.carcare.org/.

Source: Car Care Council

Share Your Adventure with Your Pet Safely | McKenney-Salinas Honda

ASPCA offers tips and tricks for your pet's Safety

photo by IDS.photos on Flickr

For some pet parents, a trip’s no fun if the four-legged members of the family can’t come. But traveling can be highly stressful, both for you and your animal companions. With thoughtful preparation, you can ensure a safe and comfortable trip for everyone.
Planning a road trip? Traveling with a pet involves more than just loading the animal in the back seat and motoring off-especially if you will be driving long distances or plan to be away for a long time. The ASPCA offers the following tips to help you prepare for a safe and smooth car trip: 

• Keep your pets safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier. There are a variety of wire mesh, hard plastic and soft-sided carriers available. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. And P.S., it’s smart to get your pet used to the carrier in the comfort of your home before your trip.
• Get your pet geared up for a long trip by taking him on a series of short drives first, gradually lengthening time spent in the car. And please be sure to always secure the crate so it won’t slide or shift in the event of a quick stop.

• Your pet’s travel-feeding schedule should start with a light meal three to four hours prior to departure. Don’t feed your furry friend in a moving vehicle-even if it is a long drive.

• Never leave your animal alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a parked automobile can become a furnace in no time, and heatstroke can develop. In cold weather, a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.

• What in your pet’s traveling kit? In addition to travel papers, food, bowl, leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, medication and a pet first-aid kit, pack a favorite toy or pillow to give your pet a sense of familiarity.

• Make sure your pet has a microchip for identification and wears a collar with a tag imprinted with your home address, as well as a temporary travel tag with your cell phone, destination phone number and any other relevant contact information. Canines should wear flat (never choke!) collars, please.

• Don't allow your pet to ride with his head outside the window. He could be injured by flying objects. And please keep him in the back seat in his crate or with a harness attached to a seat buckle.

• Traveling across state lines? Bring along your pet’s rabies vaccination record, as some states requires this proof at certain interstate crossings. While this generally isn’t a problem, it’s always smart to be on the safe side.

• When it comes to H2O, we say BYO. Opt for bottled water or tap water stored in plastic jugs. Drinking water from an area he’s not used to could result in tummy upset for your pet.

• If you travel frequently with your pet, you may want to invest in rubberized floor liners and waterproof seat covers, available at auto product retailers.

Resource: http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/10_tips_for_safe_car_travel_with_your_pet

Summer is the Season for Road Trips | McKenney-Salinas Honda

Don't Let Your Adventure Break the Bank

In a few weeks, millions of Americans will start hitting the road for their annual summer road trips. Overall, almost 80% of American vacations involve driving rather than flying, according to the U.S. Travel Association. A survey by AAA found that 52% of people said they were more likely to take a long road trip in 2015 because of lower gas prices.

But driving to your next vacation destination comes with costs of its own, including gas, lodging, and wear and tear on your car. While the upfront cost is smaller when getting behind the wheel, minor expenses can add up.

Whether you’re planning a coast-to-coast journey or a quick weekend getaway, you’re probably looking for ways to save on your next road trip. We’ve gathered seven tips that will help you save money on travel this summer so that you can get the most bang for your vacation buck.

1. Get a tune-up

Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is in peak operating condition. Popular Mechanics advises checking filters, fluid levels, brake linings, coolant, and tire pressure. Properly inflating your tires can improve fuel economy by 3%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, while using the manufacturer-recommended grade of motor oil can improve gas mileage by up to 2%.

2. Pack light

Loading up your car with a lot of baggage means you’ll spend more on gas. Your fuel efficiency falls by 1% for every extra 100 pounds you carry in your car. Putting a cargo box on your car’s roof reduces fuel economy by 6% to 17% when driving on the highway. If you must carry extra cargo, haul it behind your car rather than putting it on the roof.

3. Watch the speedometer
Having a lead foot will cost you. Fuel economy decreases dramatically at speeds above 50 miles per hour, says the U.S. Department of Energy; you’ll pay an extra 17 cents per gallon for every five miles you drive above that speed. Rapid acceleration and braking also reduces your car’s fuel efficiency.

4. Skip the tolls

Tolls are collected on 4,630 miles of highway in 25 states, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. And they won’t just cost you pocket change. Driving 356 miles on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, from the Ohio border to the Delaware River Bridge, will set you back $46.10 if you have a regular passenger car, and more if you’re driving a bigger vehicle like an RV. Picking an alternate route could mean more money in your pocket.

Going far out of your way to skip tolls could end up costing you more in gas and lost time. But for cost-conscious travelers who aren’t in a hurry, it may make sense to choose the scenic route, opting for small back roads rather than major highways.

5. Get a deal on lodging

Everyone has a different strategy when it comes to finding a place to stay on a road trip. Some people create strict itineraries, so they know exactly where they’re going to stay every night. Other people have a more laissez-faire strategy, letting the rhythm of the road dictate where they bed down for the night.

If you prefer the former approach, you have time to shop around and get the best deal on a room. Seat-of-their-pants travelers can use sites like Priceline and Hotwire to get last-minute deals. A membership with AAA can score you big discounts at many hotels, and hotel loyalty programs may earn you discounts and upgrades on rooms. Camping rather than staying in hotels is another way to save.

6. Stock up on snacks
The average American individual or family spends $27.16 per day on food at restaurants when traveling, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Make multiple trips through the drive-through a day, and you could quickly blow your travel budget.

Before you leave, stock up on affordable, healthy snacks so that you’re not tempted to hit McDonald’s. Then, look for parks and nature preserves on your route where you can stop for a picnic, and turn your lunch break into a fun part of the trip. And if you’re staying in hotels, don’t forget to fill up at the free breakfast, if one is offered.

7. Track gas prices

Gas prices have fallen over the past year, which is good news for summer travelers. But a little advance planning can save you even more. Apps like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas station when it’s time to fill up.

Also, remember that gas prices can vary significantly from state to state. If you’re driving through Chicago, fill up in neighboring states like Wisconsin and Indiana, where gas can be 10 or 20 cents cheaper per gallon because of lower local taxes, according to a report by Illinois Policy. On your way to California, top off the tank in Arizona, where the average price of gas is currently 76 cents less than in the Golden State.

Resource: http://www.cheatsheet.com/personal-finance/save-money-on-your-summer-road-trip-with-these-7-tips.html/?a=viewall#ixzz3dFOO3oot

6 Car Maintenance Tips for the Non Mechanic | Charlotte Area Honda Dealer

 

Oil Level
Depending on the make, year and model of a car, the average oil change comes every 3,000 to 7,000 miles. Without proper oil maintenance, the engine may seize and constitute a much larger bill than a regularly scheduled oil change.

In between changes, check your oil by taking a rag, pulling out the dipstick and wiping it clean. Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out to get a reading on oil level. There will be markings for an acceptable range to help determine whether you need a top off or change.

Tire Pressure
Once a month, use a tire gauge to ensure you’re maintaining a proper pressure. You can find the desired level in the owner’s manual and often in the door jam, fuel door or glove compartment.

If the pressure is too low, tires wear quicker and more gas is used. If too high, tires wear easily and have less grip on the road.
 
Tire Treading
Feel the treading of your tires for any height differentiation or smooth areas. If there are any irregularities, you may be able to preserve tires for a longer period by getting them rotated. If there is extreme wearing or signs of damage, you should take your car in to a service center to avoid flat tires and other dangerous situations.

Air Filter
Owner’s manuals will have recommended timing for filter replacements to keep your car air intake and exhaust emission ideal. With a clogged filter, cars lose fuel efficiency and power. The Internet provides how-to’s in checking air filters if you’re unsure a change is required.

Car Fluids
While most people just consider gas and windshield fluid, there are a number of fluids needed to run a car, including brake fluid, engine oil, radiator/engine coolant and antifreeze, transmission fluid and power steering fluid.

All fluids can be topped off at a service station and typically are during an oil change. Washer fluid is easily filled by yourself but for other fluids, AutoUpkeep.com offers advice, recommendations and how-to’s.

Drive Time
This is most pertinent for those storing cars for long periods of time, such as a deployment. Idle cars have to be started and run for a certain amount of time on a regular basis in order to keep everything working properly and ensure that when you return it’s ready to be used again.

A healthy battery can last up to three months without a car being started, but without a consistent start up, condensation may accumulate and rust out the engine. It’s recommended a car be started at least once a week and run for 10 to 15 minutes.

10 Quick Tips to Drive Smart | Charlotte Area Honda Dealer

1. Keep the interior of your car clean. Extra cargo or weight slows down your vehicle and requires more fuel to operate.

2. Change your air filter regularly. A clogged air filter restricts the flow of air to your engine, forcing it to work harder.

3. Don’t accelerate too quickly. Sudden bursts of speed use up more gas than gradual speed increases.

4. Use cruise control. Maintaining a consistent speed is better for fuel efficiency.

5. Avoid higher speeds when you can. You burn a lot more fuel driving at 65 mph than you do driving at 55 mph.

6. Combine your daily trips and errands to save on gas. Carpooling is a great option also.

7. Maintain proper tire pressure. Driving on under-inflated tires reduces fuel efficiency and causes your tires to wear unevenly.

8. Limit your air conditioning use if you are able to. Your car’s A/C requires more fuel to operate.

9. Get regular oil changes. This keeps your engine healthy and more fuel-efficient.

10. Make sure your wheels are properly aligned. Regular wheel alignments  increase your automobile’s fuel efficiency.