The winter season is typically one of the busiest times of the year for travelers. While millions prepare to hit the road to visit family and see sights they may never have seen before, there’s one essential travel tip that cannot be overlooked: the proper tires. Learn the best time to install your winter tires and how to keep them in safe condition with these guidelines.
6 Steps to Safer Winter Driving![]() (Family Features) The winter season is typically one of the busiest times of the year for travelers. While millions prepare to hit the road to visit family and see sights they may never have seen before, there’s one essential travel tip that cannot be overlooked: the proper tires. Winter tires are an essential safety feature for drivers and deliver as much as a 25-50 percent increase in traction over all-season tires, which could be the margin you need to brake in time to avoid trouble. Winter tire tread design uses thousands of extra traction edges for added grip, and the softer rubber of the tire surface allows the tires to stay pliable in colder temperatures to maintain contact with the road. In addition, winter tires feature aggressive groove patterns for more confident grip on ice, slush and snow. Learn the best time to install your winter tires and how to keep them in safe condition with these guidelines from the experts at Discount Tire: Plan ahead. A good rule of thumb: if you can see your breath, you should think about winter tires for all four wheels, even if your area isn’t often affected by ice or snow. When the temperature drops to 45 F and below, all-season tires can start to lose traction and grip. Keep tabs on pressure. Check your tire pressure at least once a month. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tires lose one pound of pressure (PSI). Use a tire pressure gauge to get the proper reading or stop by a tire store, such as your local Discount Tire, for a free air check. Check your tread with the penny test. Tread depth determines a vehicle’s safe stopping distance. To check your tread depth, stick a penny upside-down in a tread groove. It’s time to replace your tires if Lincoln’s head is visible. Know the limitations of all-wheel drive. Drivers often mistake all-wheel drive as sufficient for driving in sleet or snow. In reality, all-wheel drive only helps you start from a stop. It doesn’t function in the stopping or steering of a vehicle. Designate a winter set of wheels, too. Having a set of wheels specifically for your set of winter tires can save you money in the long run. A second set of wheels eliminates the cost of changeover and spares nicer wheels from the wear and tear of ice, slush, snow and salt. Extend your winter tires’ use. Rotate your tires at least every 6,000 miles, or earlier if irregular or uneven wear develops. Change out your winter tires around tax season. This can help avoid wearing out the rubber in hot months and increase the tires’ lifespans. As you prepare for winter travel season, visit discounttire.com to find a tire store near you, or search for winter tires specific to your vehicle’s make and model. SOURCE:Discount Tire KEYWORDS
Purchasing a new vehicle, while exciting, can be a burden for many shoppers. A variety of options and considerations for each make and model can turn the decision-making process into a stressful situation. These vehicle options offer a multitude of benefits, each with its own strengths, for car buyers shopping in the new year.Cars to Consider for 2019![]() (Family Features) Purchasing a new vehicle, while exciting, can be a burden for many shoppers. A variety of options and considerations for each make and model can turn the decision-making process into a stressful situation. To help make that part of the car-buying process a little less difficult, consider these podium finalists for Motor Trend’s Car of the Year, Truck of the Year and SUV of the Year. Each finalist is evaluated using six criteria: safety, efficiency, value, advancement in design, engineering excellence and performance of intended function. These podium finalists offer a multitude of benefits, each with its own strengths, for car buyers shopping in the new year. Learn more about 2019 cars to consider at motortrendawards.com. Sporty and Stylish – For a fun yet serious sedan, the Genesis G70 features punchy powertrains that support an agile, sporty chassis wrapped in classy exterior styling with strong graphics and a well-appointed interior. As the first sports sedan from Hyundai’s luxury line, this sleek model packs power. Excellent Efficiency – Cruise the roads with 50 miles-per-gallon efficiency in the Honda Insight, a smartly packaged hybrid featuring thoughtful style and storage solutions, plus seamless and silent adaptive cruise control performance. With lane-keeping assist that rates among the industry’s best, its smooth ride competes with luxury vehicles while combining efficiency and style. A Craving for Variety – If deciding between vehicle models is causing fits, consider these options from Volvo. For a fresh, modern interior with comfortable seating, the S60 sedan and V60 wagon deliver all-round performance with base 2.0-liter turbos, meaning you don’t have to pay extra for power. Or, for stylish appeal with a familiar turbo-four engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, the XC40 compact crossover provides quick acceleration and spirited steering response. Electric Excitement – Power and torque don’t go by the wayside with Jaguar’s I-Pace, the maker’s first electric car and first all-electric SUV which boasts about 200 miles of real-world battery range. Add the adjustable ride-height for added off-road capability and one of the most original automotive designs in years, and this set of wheels can have you riding in unique style. Rethinking an Iconic Ride – Configured to equally suit the ambitions of the off-roading newbie and expert alike, 2019’s thoughtful, thorough rework of the Jeep Wrangler features significant tech updates for the American original. Time for a Truck – Featuring a new design, cylinder deactivation and an automatic trailer light test, the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado offers more versions, more space and more options. Rear bumper corner steps and three cargo hooks at each bed corner deliver functionality, while a smooth High Country 10-speed automatic transmission makes for a smoother ride for truck buyers. Go Ahead and Haul – If you’re in the market for a workhorse truck combined with plush luxury and tech-forward thinking, the GMC Sierra fits as a versatile cargo-hauler. This truck differentiates itself with the MultiPro tailgate, adaptive ride control and a carbon-fiber bed. The powerful drive of a 6.2-liter engine combined with a 10-speed transmission and overall body control while towing makes this truck a key asset for long-distance hauls. Work or Play – The best-in-class styling of the Ram 1500 – sophisticated and well-executed without going over the top – packs an interior outfitted with the tools needed for activities ranging from fun to function. A 48-volt mild hybrid system saves fuel while coil-spring dampers and an optional air suspension provide a luxury car-like ride. SOURCE:Motor Trend KEYWORDS
Summer is a time for sunshine and road trips. No matter the length of the trip, you’ll want your car safe and functional, especially with your family and friends in the passenger seats. No matter if you’re worried about safety or showing off your ride in style, there are specific steps you can take to prep your car for warmer temperatures. Prepare Your Car for Summer![]() (Family Features) Summer is a time for sunshine and road trips. No matter the length of the trip, you’ll want your car safe and functional, especially with your family and friends in the passenger seats. With summer weather approaching, it can be a great time to inspect your vehicle and make sure everything is up to par. No matter if you’re worried about safety or showing off your ride in style, there are specific steps you can take to prep your car for warmer temperatures: Inspect your brakes and tires Check your oil level Wash your ride Check your fluids Test the air conditioning Add safety essentials Install new windshield wipers Look at the coolant For more tips to prepare for summer fun, visit eLivingToday.com. ![]() 5 Tips for Summer Road TripsFor many people, summer means setting out on a road trip in search of bucket-list-worthy excitement or a relaxing vacation. Whether you’re going down the road to visit family or across the country to see a national monument, it is important to prepare your vehicle – and its tires – before you pull out of the driveway. These five safety tips can help get your family ready to hit the road this summer: 1. Check Your Tread – A tire’s tread depth can determine a vehicle’s safe stopping distance. You can check your tread depth by sticking a penny upside-down in a tread groove. If you can see President Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires. 2. Ensure Proper Tire Pressure – Low tire pressure can lead to poor handling and gas mileage, excessive wear and overloading. Drivers should check their tire pressure at least once a month, and especially before any long trip. Use a dependable air gauge or stop by an automotive store like Discount Tire or America’s Tire to take advantage of complimentary air checks. 3. Rotate Often – Tires should be rotated at least every 6,000 miles or earlier if irregular or uneven wear develops. 5. Don’t Overload – The combination of heat and overloading a vehicle, which can be common during summer travel, is one of the most dangerous conditions for a vehicle’s tires as overloaded tires can overheat and possibly fail. When it comes to summer driving safety, it can be imperative to check your tires early and often. Knowing the condition of your tires can keep your family safe and your vehicle in quality condition. To learn more about tire safety before a summer road trip, or to schedule an appointment for a tire safety check, visit tires.com. Photos courtesy of Getty Images SOURCE:eLivingToday.com KEYWORDS
As temperatures drop, drivers should remember that if you can see your breath, you should think about winter tires. Whether you’re planning a cross-country trek or simply driving to and from work daily, exposing your vehicle’s tires to colder weather could lead to potential trouble on the road. To help stay safe on the road this winter, follow these four tire safety tips.
4 Tire Safety Tips for Winter![]() (Family Features) The same temperature you can begin to see your breath – 45° F – is also when the all-season tires on your car can start to lose traction and grip. As temperatures drop, drivers should remember that if you can see your breath, you should think about winter tires. Whether you’re planning a cross-country trek or simply driving to and from work daily, exposing your vehicle’s tires to colder weather could lead to potential trouble on the road. Snow and ice may be fun to play in, but they make for dangerous driving conditions. Winter tires are built for cold-weather conditions and deliver improved starting, stopping and steering control in temperatures 45° F and below. The difference is the tread compound of winter tires, which stays soft and pliable in colder temperatures for superior traction. Add the tread design of winter tires with thousands of extra gripping edges and you get as much as a 25-50 percent increase in traction over all-season tires. To help stay safe on the road this winter, the experts at Discount Tire recommend following these four tire safety tips:
Your safety is important, that’s why Discount Tire encourages drivers to beat the rush by getting winter ready before the first snowstorm or cold streak of the season hits. To locate a tire store near you, or search for winter tires specific to your vehicle’s make and model, visit discounttire.com. Photo courtesy of Getty Images SOURCE:Discount Tire The change of seasons is a great time to give your car some special attention to ensure you can confidently roll right through summer. Make the most of your summer on the move with these ideas for style, safety and comfort that make caring for your car a cinch.Cool Car Care for Summer![]() (Family Features) Whether you’re hitting the open road for a leisurely cruise or simply spending more time in your car keeping up with a fast-paced summer, you want your vehicle at its best when it comes to safety, style and comfort. The change of seasons is a great time to give your car some special attention to ensure you can confidently roll right through summer. Start by running through a checklist to ensure your car’s safety features are in good working order. Test headlights, tail lights and turn signals, and check fluid levels, topping off or replacing as needed. Also be sure tires are properly inflated, and inspect seat belts for any imperfections that may hinder performance. If you’re going to arrive safely, why not go in style, too? Keeping your car sparkling clean not only protects finishes inside and out, it’s the easiest way to make your ride look great. Let your personality show with subtle touches like seat covers or license plate wraps bearing your favorite sports team or college. And don’t forget comfort. Have visors ready to block harsh sun rays, and be sure your air conditioner is ready to deliver a refreshing blast of cool air. Add an air freshener with a subtle summery scent, and don’t forget to throw a light blanket in the trunk so you’re ready when a cool evening breeze kicks up. Make the most of your summer on the move with these ideas that make caring for your car a cinch. Freshen up your ride Allergens are everywhere. In fact, the air in your car could be up to six times dirtier than the air outside. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your car’s cabin air filter, pick up a FRAM Fresh Breeze cabin air filter and do some quick and easy DIY — in as little as 15 minutes — to protect your family from breathing dirt, dust and allergens. Visit FRAMFreshBreeze.com for simple instructions and to find the right cabin air filter for your family’s vehicle. Style that shines Road trip ready A road trip is a fun way to enjoy a summer getaway, while providing ultimate flexibility to keep your own schedule and pace. Protect your vehicle and your own safety by following these recommendations from the Car Care Council and complete a thorough pre-trip checklist before hitting the road:
Easy ways to accessorize your ride Simple accessories can add fun and function to your daily commute or a summertime trek across the state. Keep these auto additions in mind and you’ll be stocked up for wherever the road takes you.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images (family in car) SOURCE:FRAM Fresh Breeze Barrett-Jackson KEYWORDS
Taking proper care of your vehicle is important all year, but summer heat brings a unique set of challenges to your car’s air conditioning system, tires, brakes, battery and more. To ensure your vehicle is prepared to safely handle the summer elements and to help avoid breakdowns, preventative maintenance is necessary and these essential tips that can help keep your car performing safely, comfortably and cool all summer long.
5 Steps to Keep Your Car Prepared for Summer Heat![]() (Family Features) Taking proper care of your vehicle is important all year, but summer heat brings a unique set of challenges to your car’s air conditioning system, tires, brakes, battery and more. To ensure your vehicle is prepared to safely handle the summer elements and to help avoid breakdowns, preventative maintenance is necessary. The car care experts at Goodyear Auto Service offer these essential tips that can help keep your car performing safely, comfortably and cool – all summer long:
To learn more about car care maintenance and to set up an appointment to get your air conditioning system serviced at the Summer Car Care event, visit GoodyearAutoService.com. SOURCE:Goodyear Auto Service
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There are few better times for a road trip than during the summer months when the sun is bright and the kids are out of school. Whether it’s just you and your significant other or a jam-packed car, take these steps before hitting the open road.Hit the Road Safely![]() (Family Features) There are few better times for a road trip than during the summer months when the sun is bright and the kids are out of school. Despite the expected rise in gas prices, AAA reports 79 percent of families are planning to hit the road this year, 10 percent more than in 2016. Whether it’s just you and your significant other or a jam-packed car, the experts at Interstate Batteries recommend taking these steps before hitting the open road:
There can be a lot of planning and research put into the perfect road trip. Follow these tips to make sure you’re able to go wherever the road takes you. Find more information at InterstateBatteries.com. Photo courtesy of Getty Images SOURCE:Interstate Batteries While taking your car to an auto service professional is a great way to ensure its performance, there are few simple vehicle checks that you can easily learn and do yourself to save a little money and help keep your vehicle running efficiently all summer long.DIY Car Care Everyone Can Do![]() (Family Features) While taking your car to an auto service professional is a great way to ensure its performance, the Car Care Council reminds vehicle owners there are few simple vehicle checks that they can easily learn and do themselves to save a little money and help keep their vehicles running efficiently all summer long.
To learn more about how to care for you vehicle, and for a free copy of the popular Car Care Guide, visit www.carcare.org. Photo courtesy of Getty Images SOURCE:Car Care Council |
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