Fall Car Care 2017 by The Advertiser-Tribune

fall

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2017

The Advertiser-Tribune

ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

FALL CAR CARE

Some vehicles see storage in fall — but need preparation 2 – The Advertiser-Tribune, Tiffin, Ohio Saturday, October 7, 2017

BY VICKI JOHNSON

Staff Writer vjohnson@advertiser-tribune.com

October usually is the month when seasonal vehicles are placed in storage until warm weather comes around again in the spring. Although cars reportedly don’t require as much winterization as they used to, boats and recreational vehicles should be prepared before storage. Diane Weaver, manager of Cartown Marine, reviewed the process of storing a boat over winter. “It’s a thorough checkup for the following season as well,” she said. “It’ll be ready to go in the spring.” She said it’s important that winterizing not be put off too long in the fall. “You have to watch the weather to make sure it isn’t going to drop below 32 degrees for very long,” she said. Overall, she said, boats should be stored clean and dry to prevent mold and rotting of the wood portion of the structure. Any fresh-water systems such as sinks and showers also should be winterized, she said. “For the outboard motors, it’s important to have clean lube in the lower unit and to fog the motor cylinders,” Weaver said. Coating them with a fogging oil prevents condensation and rust through the winter, she said. Also, Weaver said fuel should be stabilized, especially if it contains ethanol. “Ethanol goes bad in about 30 days,” she said. “It gets sticky.” Fuel tanks should be stored at least three-quarters full because an empty tank allows water to build up in the tank from “sweating,” she said. For inboard-outboard engines, antifreeze must be added to keep the engine block from freezing and cracking during the winter, she said. The engine also should be fogged and the fuel stabilized. “It’s important to take it to a reputable service shop because if something goes wrong in that process, a good shop will have insurance,” she said. “Proper antifreeze method is a must. You can’t just pour antifreeze in.”

Seasonal vehicles such as the RV seen here or the personal watercraft and boat seen below are put away for the winter — but need to be prepared first.

PHOTOS COURTESY METROCREATIVECONNECTION

Outdrives should be removed and the engine alignment checked, and the U-joints should be greased, she said. “It’s recommended to store with fresh gear lube in the outdrive and fresh engine oil and a fresh filter,” she said. Similar to boats, RVs require water be removed and systems protected. “We winterize and plumb the lines and blow water out of the plumbing and add nontoxic RV marine antifreeze,” said Tom Ott, service manager at Town & Country RV, Clyde. Ott said the antifreeze process is more complex that it used to be because today’s RVs have more parts of winterize. “RV manufacturers have done things to help with the winterization process,” he said. Some of those additions have been valves in the water systems and kits to allow antifreeze to be pumped in more easily. At the same time, he said, the process takes longer than it used to because there are more items to winterize. “It takes longer and there’s more time involved because there are so many more appliances,” he said. For example, some RVs have refrigerators with water dispensers and ice makers as well as washers and dryers. “We use a long-term storage chemical to treat the holding tank throughout the winter,” he said.

Although Ott said the service department doesn’t do other winter preparations, customers individually often remove food products, vegetable oils and soaps to prevent damage from freezing. He said they use a variety of products to keep mice out. Some use a scented product sold by Town & Country. Others use dryer sheets, moth balls and other deterrents, although he said he wasn’t sure if those worked.

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The Advertiser-Tribune, Tiffin, Ohio Saturday, October 7, 2017 – 3

Avoid breakdowns with battery care From MetroCreativeConnection

Many drivers have experienced the misfortune of getting into their vehicles only to realize their engines won’t turn over. Although there may be plenty of reasons why a car will not start, frequently a dead battery is to blame. Car batteries can last for five years or more when properly cared for, but many batteries wear down and become inefficient within three years of daily use. According to the UK-based company Warranty Wise, car batteries deteriorate with every charge from a vehicle’s engine. Naturally, drivers who are stranded by dead batteries wish they had done more to prevent their battery dying while they’re on the road. Certain factors might offer clues as to how much life vehicle batteries have left. • Longer start time: A dying battery may cause the engine to crank, but it can be slow to start or not seem to exude a lot of power. • Cranks but doesn’t start: You may turn the key to hear the engine trying to turn over, but it won’t. Even if the vehicle eventually starts, have the battery checked and, if necessary, replaced. • A jump start has been necessary: Batteries that have required a jump or multiple jumps are on their last legs and should be replaced immediately. • Dim lights or check engine indicator: Batteries power the electric components in a vehicle, so dim lights could be indicative of a loss of power. Having the “check engine” light come on also can be a clue. • Extreme temperatures: According to Firestone, hot or cold temperatures can shorten a battery’s life. If you live in an extreme climate, your battery may not last as long as the manufacturer suggests it should. • Short driving trips: People who take many short trips (less than 20 minutes each) may find their batteries do not have enough time to fully recharge, shortening their life expectancy. • Pungent aroma: Leaking and corrosion around the battery terminals can cause battery issues. If there is a rotten egg smell under the hood, it may be a leaking battery on its way to dying. Drivers can have their vehicle batteries tested by mechanics. Batteries can be replaced at home or at a garage. Servicing the vehicle frequently can prevent performance inefficiencies and help determine if any components are straining the battery and causing premature loss of battery life.

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Good headlights light the way for safer nighttime driving 4 – The Advertiser-Tribune, Tiffin, Ohio Saturday, October 7, 2017

Courtesy MetroCreativeConnection

Routine vehicle maintenance protects drivers on the road while also protecting the often considerable financial investment they make in their cars and trucks. Maintenance guidelines have changed thanks to technology, but drivers must continue to care for their vehicles to ensure the safety of themselves, their passengers and fellow motorists. From the time they first get behind the wheel, many drivers recognize the need to periodically change their oil and have their tires rotated. But few drivers may understand the importance of maintaining their vehicles’ headlights, and just how compromised they and their passengers might be when driving with old, dimming or foggy headlamps. Burned out lights greatly diminish driver visibility and may even draw the attention of law enforcement. But headlight bulbs don’t just burn out overnight. As bulbs age, their light output gradually reduces due to use and factors such as humidity, electrical resistance and filament fatigue. Drivers concerned about the efficacy of their headlight bulbs can take steps to improve their visibility when driving at night. • Accept your own vulnerability. The human eye is not adapted for nocturnal vision. As a result, drivers’ visual acuity may be reduced by as much as 70 percent when driving at night. Cloudy, dim headlights only exacerbate that problem, further compromising the safety of everyone on the road. Avoid aggressive driving and always obey the speed limits, even when it’s late at night and roads are empty. • Learn to recognize headlamp clouding. According to the automotive lighting innovator Lumileds, sunlight, ozone, road pollution, and even chemicals used in car washes can contribute to headlamp clouding. Clouded headlamps often appear hazed and yellow and reduce headlight output considerably. Routine headlamp inspection can help drivers discover clouded lamps that can greatly compromise nighttime visibility. • Restore clouded headlamps. Clouded headlamps do not necessarily need to be replaced. A product such as Philips Headlight Restoration Kit can help drivers restore their clouded headlamp lenses. The kit employs a protective UV coating that effectively restores yellow, hazy lenses that have been compromised by years of

exposure to the elements. • Replace headlamps that are past their prime. While not all clouded headlamps need to be replaced, some aging or outdated bulbs are best replaced with new models designed to produce substantially more light output. Drivers whose vehicles are equipped with standard halogen headlights may be surprised to learn that such lights typically begin to break down within two to three years of installation, during which time light output might be reduced by as much as 30 percent. Compared to standard halogen bulbs, Philips X-tremeVision Bulbs can put substantially more light on the road while producing longer beam patterns that make it easier for drivers to see more of what’s ahead of them at night. Drivers’ visibility is dramatically reduced once the sun goes down, but maintaining headlamps can help drivers

combat that loss of vision. More information about headlamp maintenance and the alternatives to traditional halogen headlights is available at www.philips.com/automotive.

Courtesy MetroCreativeConnection

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LED automotive lights add style without sacrificing safety

The Advertiser-Tribune, Tiffin, Ohio Saturday, October 7, 2017 – 5

need to be changed. The same benefits apply to LED lights for automobiles. Built to deliver a robust, long-lasting performance, Ultinon LEDs can last up to 12 years, all the while providing superior light output to traditional, often fastburning incandescent lights. For many drivers, 12 years with a vehicle is a lifetime, meaning that once they’re installed, Ultinon LEDs, which were designed as Brighter output, superior light diffusion an easily installed direct LED lights burn much brighter and more powerful fit for conventional intethan conventional incandescent lights. But more light is rior and exterior bulbs, not necessarily best, as uncontrolled bright light can be the lights may never dangerous, creating excessive glare. Philips Ultinon need to be replaced. lights, for example, provide excellent light distribution, Many automotive upemploying a wide angle beam so drivers can see and be grades are touted for seen better. Ultinon LEDs are also available in several their style or safety. The bright, instant-on capability of Philips Ultinon LEDs when braking or turning immediately colors, depending on the application. Bright white LED lights provide aesLEDs are ideal for use as backup and position lights, alerts other drivers, giving them more time to react safely. thetic appeal while also while the cool blue lights add high tech flare to interiimproving driver visibilors and floors, trunks, and glove compartments. Amber Durability ity and making vehicles more visible to fellow moLEDs work well with turn signals and hazard lights, Homeowners who have installed LED lights in their torists. More information about Philips Ultinon LEDS whereas red lights are ideal for taillights. homes no doubt appreciate how infrequently such bulbs can be found at www.philips.com/automotive. Courtesy MetroCreativeConnection

The reasons behind the popularity of certain automotive products tend to vary. Some drivers might prefer certain features because they’re stylish, while other drivers might be drawn to products because of their safety ratings. The growing popularity of LED lights proves certain automotive products can give drivers the best of both worlds. In recent years, more and more drivers have replaced their manufacturer-installed incandescent lights with LED lights in the interior and exterior of their vehicles. LED lights provide considerably more aesthetic appeal than traditional incandescent lights, but the reasons to install LED lights stretch far beyond the high tech, stylish look they can give to a vehicle.

Many motorists only think of their vehicle lights through the lens of how the lights help them see the road. But lights also play a vital role in making drivers’ vehicles more visible to fellow motorists. Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs, LED lights turn on instantly, giving other motorists more time to react when drivers brake or turn. That’s especially important at night, when reaction time is already greatly compromised by a lack of natural light. Braking & turning

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Follow these measures for safer winter driving 6 – The Advertiser-Tribune, Tiffin, Ohio Saturday, October 7, 2017

Courtesy MetroCreativeConnection

Winter weather causes many people to want to retreat indoors until the spring thaw. However, for those who embrace the cooler temperatures or find that life must go on despite snow and ice, taking inventory of their vehicles is a must before the first snowflakes start to fall. Tire care is an especially important area of vehicle maintenance. The tire experts at Michelin say regular tires may be ineffective for winter driving. Summer tires are made from materials that are optimized for warm conditions. When the mercury drops, these same materials can harden, reducing their ability to grip the road. That lack of traction can be compounded by the presence of snow or ice. Even all-season tires, which are designed to be driven year-round, can be insufficient in severe weather conditions. Winter tires can help drivers safely navigate winter roadways. Bridgestone Tires says that having the right snow tires matters when driving in winter weather conditions. It’s important to look for tires that can disperse water sufficiently and also grip the road. Snow tires are designed to remain softer and more flexible to conform to the road better in cold conditions. Some winter tires are even studded to provide better traction. Unfortunately, even the best winter tires cannot provide perfect traction on slippery roadways. That is why it is essential — in conjunction with the use of winter tires or snow chains — to modify driving techniques to navigate safely. • Drive slowly. Slow down on winter roads. Allow a greater distance for stopping than for dry conditions. Slippery conditions can make it more challenging to stop, and excessive speeds can make the situation worse. • Shift into low gear. On hills, rely on low gears to maximize traction to travel up and down hills. This can minimize skids or sliding.

• Get the vehicle a tuneup. In addition to tires, be sure the braking system, bat- Even all-season tires, which are designed to be driven year-round, can be insufficient in severe weather conditions. Winter tires can help drivers safely navigate winter roadways. tery and other major components of the vehicle are in good working order. • Replace windshield wipers. Reduced visibility can compromise the safety of drivers and their passengers. Replace windshield wiper blades before winter arrives. Consider purchasing winterrated windshield blades. Import • Domestic • Light Truck • Know how to recover from a skid. Front End Cooling Lube, Oil & $10 OFF When skids occur on black ice or slush, drivers should take their feet off of the Alignment System Flush Filter BRAKE With Synthetic Blend Oil (up to 5 qt.) pedals and steer gently in the direction $59.99 $73.99 SERVICE they want to go. As the vehicle regains $27.95 Extended Life $95.99 Trucks Extra traction, only then should the brakes or Fitch’s Auto Repair LLC Fitch’s Auto Repair LLC Fitch’s Auto Repair LLC Fitch’s Auto Repair LLC Can not be combined with any accelerator be applied. Can not be combined with any Can not be combined with any Can not be combined with any other coupon or offer. other coupon or offer. other coupon or offer. other coupon or offer. Winter weather requires making some With coupon. With coupon. With coupon. With coupon. Offer Expires 10/31/18. A-T Offer Expires 10/31/18. A-T Offer Expires 10/31/18. A-T vehicle modifications, and drivers may Offer Expires 10/31/18. A-T want to alter the way they drive to be 1089 S. Morgan Ave., Tiffin, OH • Randy Fitch, Owner • 419-443-1966 more safe on the road.

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What to know when choosing a vehicle based on wheel drive

The Advertiser-Tribune, Tiffin, Ohio Saturday, October 7, 2017 – 7

Courtesy MetroCreativeConnection

Several factors are considered before drivers purchase new vehicles. Wheel drive may not be the first such factor to come to mind, but it can be an important consideration when car shopping. Despite the considerable rise in popularity of sport utility vehicles, automotive expert Edmunds says most passenger cars sold in the United States today use a two-wheel-drive system. With options such as 4WD, AWD, FWD and RWD, consumers should understand the differences of each type of drive in order to make the most informed decision.

With rear-wheel drive, the power goes to the back wheels to drive the vehicle. This used to be the system of choice because RWD systems were relatively easy to manufacture, offers Kelly Blue Book. RWD is the choice for many trucks because added load can offer additional traction in the back. Furthermore, rearwheel drive is coveted for sporty vehicles and luxury cars. That’s because, as vehicles accelerate, the weight is transfered to the rear wheels, enhancing traction and further acceleration. This drive also distributes weight more evenly, so others, helping vehicles to be lighter and cornering and handling is better. consume less fuel. In rain and snow, FWD has excellent traction, so it’s an Front-wheel drive asset under poor weather conditions. The National Motorists Association Front-wheel drive vehicles are not prized states front-wheel drive, which has become ubiquitous in cars produced today, for their handling because the front wheels have to put power to the ground is cheaper to design and build than RWD. Fewer parts mean the drivetrain is and steer the car. Furthermore, unlike easier to install. It is also less heavy than RWD, which is more rugged and Rear-wheel drive

Signs rotors may need to be replaced for smooth braking

The braking system of most vehicles consists of brake pads, calipers and metal discs called rotors that work to slow down a vehicle. When the vehicle needs to stop, the calipers squeeze the brake pads against the spinning rotors. Because a lot of friction is generated, rotors, like brake pads, need to be replaced periodically. However, drivers may not know when these components need to be changed or if other services can be done to prolong the life of the rotors a little longer. The first step is to inspect the braking system. A healthy brake rotor will be smooth and have an uninterrupted surface that is free of dust, grooves and grit, advises automotive retailer CarsDirect. If brake pads have caused grooves to form, the pads or

the rotors may need to be replaced. Another tactic is to listen for brake noise when driving. Mechanics state noise commonly is associated with bad brake rotors. If the rotors produce squealing or squeaking noises or even scraping noises while braking, they may need to be replaced. Warped rotors also may produce vibrations that can be felt when the brakes are applied. A pulsing or rough feeling can vibrate through the entire chassis, states YourMechanic, a vehicle repair and advice website. Speak with a qualified mechanic to see if a lathe can be used to shave off a little of the rotors and get a few more miles out of them. Otherwise, to ensure safe, adequate braking, rotors will need to be replaced.

durable, FWD is more fragile.

4WD is designed for rugged, off-road applications and AWD is for pavement driving. Pure 4WD is good for low-traction situations off of pavement, where additional grip is needed. In some 4WD vehicles, this drive needs to be engaged through a transfer switch. In such automobiles, the vehicle operates in FWD or RWD until that switch is engaged. 4-wheel-drive & All-wheel-drive

All-wheel-drive provides the best of FWD, RWD and pure 4WD systems. The main advantage is excellent traction on dry pavement and in poor weather. Some AWD vehicles may be able to go off-roading as well. Potential disadvantages to AWD include cost, vehicle weight and, because there are more components in AWD, more parts can fail and require servicing. AWD typically comes in part- and full-time versions.

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