Auto Guide_Fall 10.06.23

A first-class customer experience

Exceptional customer service is the essence of how Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage does business. This promise lies in their meeting or exceeding each customer’s expectations every time.

The company is dedicated to quality, transparency and consistency. Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage holds itself to high standards in all of these areas, focusing its efforts on creating an executive-level, high-class facility and successfully delivering on their promises.

“I’ve wanted to work in this business since I built an RV & Boat storage facility for a customer in 1990,” said Robert Hayworth, innovative entrepreneur and owner of Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage. “What inspired me was the opportunity to create a state-ofthe-art, class A facility with premier amenities and a real contribution to my customers’ enjoyment.”

The facility, which launched its Phase 1 in 2013, has developed a local reputation of having a friendly staff, beautiful and impec-

cably maintained grounds and a highly secure environment for those who wish to store their RV’s, boats, ATVs, trailers, and more.

“With a waiting list that has opened up for the first time in years due to the opening of Phase 3, we now have the privilege of storing over 550 RVs and boats each month,” Hayworth said.“ Customer satisfaction that drives our fast lease-up continues to assure us that we are on the right track.”

The development of Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage into what it is today was not always easy.

“Keeping up with the demand has been a really big challenge,” said Hayworth. “On the development side, getting the entitlements was challenging initially. However, once the City of Oakley saw the added

benefit of the solar portion of the project, they rallied their support and were instrumental in helping us bring this project to fruition.”

The addition of the solar panels to the company’s facility is a bonus not just for customers but also for the community of Oakley as a whole.

“Ours is a purpose-driven business, where the benefit is enjoyed by the customer, the owner, the city, the community and the environment,” said Hayworth of the highlights of his experience building the company. “We are grateful to be able to provide exceptional service to each customer and to know that the solar element on the canopies is adding value beyond our customers, to the entire Oakley community, powering over 800 homes with solar energy every month via the

utility power buyback program.”

As part of the storage lease, the fully paved facility offers access to a private dump station, complimentary ice, air,  use of a power washer, and more!  With an emphasis on security, every space is covered and secured behind a 14-foot-high perimeter fence and under 24-hour security surveillance.

Hayworth said the three most important values of the company are: “Customer satisfaction, delivering value and contributing exponentially to our customers’ experience of fun and enjoyment.”

The positive impact on the company’s customers and surrounding community is rippling outward as it creates a standard of sustainable growth and connection.

Concerning the expected growth of the company over the next few years, Hayworth said: “When you are lucky enough to design, develop and deliver a business that offers exceptional customer satisfaction, growth comes to your door. “With the opening of Phase 3, our physical expansion is complete for now. Our growth for the future will be coming from our vision and focus, which is to continue improving our customers’ experience and delivering enjoyment and satisfaction.”

Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage is at 5220 Neroly Road in Oakley. For more information, call 855-MY-RVBoat or visit www. oakleyrvboat.com

Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage uses solar modules for shade.

Photo by Melissa van Ruiten

What to know about buying, insuring electric vehicles

The popularity of electric vehicles (EV) has continued to grow in California and nationwide, with no signs of slowing down.

According to statistics from Bloomberg. com, EV sales represent 22 percent of all new car sales in California; a 20 percent increase over the last five years.

More recently, EV sales in California jumped 70 percent in the last fiscal quarter, according to Bloomberg. Tesla, which used to be based in the Bay Area, has been the leader in for the last several years with the two of their models being the two top selling-vehicles in California (Model Y and Model 3), and recently overtaking Toyota as the state’s top-selling vehicle brand.

Mike Bushel, Internet Sales Manager of Winter Honda in Pittsburg, says that cost for EVs are relative, but concedes that the true difference between gas and electric vehicles is in the maintenance.

“One can buy a new electric vehicle for under $30K and pay over $100K for another make and model of a new electric vehicle,” said Bushel. “A new gasolinepowered vehicle can range from $20K to over $100K. But maintenance is way better on electric cars. Brake fluids, brake pads, and rotor changes are less frequent because of the nature of the brakes on electric cars. The cost and time spent to take it to maintenance facilities are day and night, literally. There’s no oil and filters changes, no transmission fluid changes as opposed to an internal combustion engine vehicle, and aside from changing windshield wipers once, in-cabin microfilters twice, and a set of tires done, there’s nothing else.”

According to data from ConsumerReports.org, the average price for a new EV is $60,000 – tens of thousands more than the average gas or hybrid vehicle. It is expected in the years ahead however, for EV models to gain parity with gasoline models due to reduction of battery and production costs as well as more vehicle manufacturers building more electric models.

ConsumerReports.org estimates that by the end of 2024, there will be more than 70 models of EVs on the market; representing a massive increase from 2020 when there were only six models.

Rob Brandt, Dealer Principal of Bill Brandt Ford, says that all of the major vehicle manufacturers are getting now into the game for EVs, while adding that maintenance of an EV is easier due to not having as many moving parts.

ShipleyEnergy.com statistics show that consumers save an average of $632 per year if they choose an EV over a gas-

powered vehicle.

“California is leading the charge for the rest of the country with EVs,” said Brandt. “California has more electric vehicles than any state in the country. The West Coast and East Coast are the biggest players in the market. Rivian, another California-based company, is getting in on strong, as they are going to deliver about 50,000 trucks and SUVS in California.”

Local physician Hsien-Wen Hsu, an electric vehicle owner since 2018, has championed electric vehicles due to the savings he has enjoyed, while highlighting the little maintenance and savings at the gas pump.

“I absolutely would recommend it,” Hsu said. “The fuel cost savings will make a premium vehicle cost equal to a Toyota. If you happen to have solar at home, I pay no more than $400 in fuel cost for a total of 120,000 miles since 2018. The cost is only because I have to charge when I am on a road trip.”

While cost of a new EV may vary and maintenance contrasts with that of a standard gas-powered vehicle, insurance rates for EVs tend to be higher.

Generally, EVs tend to cost more to insure, although the costs can vary.

Insurance comparison website The Zebra data shows that a Nissan Leaf ($37 more) and a Chevrolet Bolt ($78 more) per year to insure than a Hyundai Ioniq Blue, whereas

a Tesla Model 3 costs $470 more to insure than an Audi A4.

There are some exceptions however, as the Nissan Leaf also costs $35 less to insure than a Toyota Prius.

According to Chris Alito, owner of Casey’s Auto Body in Brentwood, the higher insurance rates are because specific repair guidelines make repairs cost more.

“A lot more goes into safety and special tooling,” Alito said. “That’s why a lot of these EV companies are coming out with their own insurances, so they can insure the correct parts are used. They want to make sure it is repaired to their guidelines, which can make sure it is a better repair.”

Mark Murray, an Insurance Broker from State Farm, says that while insurance rates for EVs tend to be higher, it’s based on per vehicle and on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. “The insurance industry is very cyclical,” said Murray. “It has its ups and downs. I think as the market becomes more saturated with EVs, I think there could be some adjustments. As the vehicles continue to get more modernized, there is more electrical ingenuity to goes into them. The pricing and technology follow in the similar path. The cars become more costly to repair and replace, which is going on right now, that will have an effect on the pricing.”

Despite being a proponent of EVs, Hsu advises prospective EV owners to choose a credible insurance company that knows their car value.

“Most insurance companies do not know how to evaluate the car,” said Hsu. “Most of the body shops do not know how to handle these kinds of cars. I chose to renew my insurance with Tesla, who are known for having zero customer service, but at least they know how to evaluate a vehicle.”

More information (including graphs) to compare insurance rates for gas versus electric vehicles can be found at https://www. consumerreports.org/money/car-insurance/ electric-vehicles-cost-more-to-insure-thangasoline-powered-a6372607024/.

Additional information on EVs can be found at https://www.shipleyenergy.com/ resources/energy-guides/cost-to-charge-anelectric-car-how-it-affects-your-electric-bill/.

SEAN TONGSON

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

How technology can make you a safer driver

Technology has touched all aspects of modern life, including the way people drive. For example, the days of printing directions in advance of long car trips are long gone thanks to global positioning systems (GPS) that are now built into cars or easily accessible via smartphones. But technology hasn’t just made it easier to get from point A to B. It’s also made such journeys safer.

Modern automobiles are loaded with bells and whistles, many of which are designed to make it safer to operate and travel in moving vehicles. In recognition of the effectiveness of safety features like advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), many insurance companies offer significant discounts to drivers who use them. Researchers with the insurance comparison website Insurify note that some insurers offer 10 percent discounts on premiums to drivers who use features like an ADAS while driving.

Drivers interested in technologybased safety features for their vehicles can consider these options.

Night view assistance

Many drivers admit to experiencing difficulty driving at night. Night view assistance technologies have been offered by luxury automakers for several years, and these devices offer more visibility than standard headlights. Some systems employ infrared emitters in headlight buckets and mounted infrared

cameras that identify and detect animals, pedestrians and other objects at night. Drivers simply activate their systems on their vehicle dashboards and are then alerted when the systems detect objects drivers may not see on their own.

Warning systems

Warning systems have long been a standard in modern vehicles. Such systems

Technology is helping to make driving safer for motorists and their passengers. Using systems and apps designed to improve safety on the road can reduce drivers’ risk of being involved in motor vehicle accidents.

use sensors and motion technology to alert drivers to potential problems. Lane assist technologies alert drivers when their vehicles begin to drift out of their lanes and also when they are attempting to change lanes. These systems are now widely available, but they can be turned on and off, so drivers should make sure their systems are always on.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Best practices for winterizing your ride

One of the beautiful things about being a motorcyclist in California is the weather.

Northern California in most years rarely sees a reason to put away the bike for the winter season. In fact, most of us who ride daily to work, or for fun will likely brave the winter season if we are not in the middle of a heavy rainstorm and if winds are manageable. But if you’re a new rider and may not be ready to ride for the winter season just yet, or if you’re a seasoned rider, and just prefer the warmer months to enjoy your ride, here are some best practices gleaned from experience and local dealers.

Battery maintenance: AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) maintenance-free batteries are one of the most common batteries used in motorcycles. When properly charged during a non-use period, they will last 4-6 years. If a battery is left connected the internal clocks and instrument cluster can create a static draw when connected to a motorcycle, so I like to use a trickle charger every 2-3 weeks during storage. If the battery is disconnected from the bike, I’ll perform a trickle charge once every four weeks.

“Maintaining the performance of your AGM battery demands correct charging. The internal structures of your AGM battery can be damaged due to overcharging,” according to Lifelinebatteries.com.

Using “Maintenance” battery chargers should not be plugged in indefinitely. Experts recommend connecting overnight and then disconnecting when your charger indicates a fully charged battery.

Should you start the engine every week or not? We don’t exactly struggle with cold start issues in California like they do in many parts of the country. However, I find that unless you are going to actually ride your bike, and get your engine through a proper heat cycle, I recommend that you just leave it off during long storage.

“Not only is a cold start hard on the motor, but if you aren’t running it under load up to full operating temperature, moisture condenses out of the air into places water doesn’t belong,” according to RevZilla.com.

Speaking with my local dealership, they also explain that it is important to add a fuel stabilizer when storing a motorcycle for a long period of time. Most modern

fuel-injected motorcycles have in tank fuel pumps, and it is important to store them with a full tank of gas that has been treated with an appropriate additive. A product like Star Tron is particularly effective with ethanol, which breaks down quickly.

Wash it: Ideally, bikes should be cleaned regularly, and definitely before long storage. Doing so gives you a chance to visually inspect your bike looking for any dents, scrapes, leaks, or loose bolts. Wash away any grime that can eat away at rubber seals, or cause moving parts to rust or get stuck. Clean and lube your chain if it’s chain driven, lightly applying some lubrication on your levers, cables, and a light coat of WD40 on the fork legs can help prevent oxidation and water stains. It’s always a good feeling to see a nice shiney bike resting easy during the off season. Cover it: Bike covers offer many great benefits whether you are storing your bike indoors or outdoors. If you do not have access to a garage, using a proper bike cover helps keep rain water and moisture off your ride preventing mold and mildew from growing, and blocks harmful UV rays protecting sensitive electronics that are affected by long-term exposure to the sun. Consider covering your exhaust pipe(s) as well, with Saran Wrap, this can help keep mice and other pests from nesting and potentially clogging your exhaust system. This is particularly useful for low-hanging exhausts.

Read your manual: This is where studying your owner’s manual comes in handy. Don’t just glance through the manual, but take some time before, during, the off season to know what your bike is going to need before you get back to riding. Most manuals have a detailed calendar of when certain maintenance procedures should be performed. This will keep your bike healthy and keep you informed.

It’s highly recommended you speak with your mechanic or manufacturer to know what should be done according to your bike’s specific make and model before, during, and after long storage, so do your due diligence and make sure you know what your bike needs.

Photo by Andrew Rulloda

Factors to consider before leasing in the current economic climate

Leasing was once a gateway to a new car for millions of drivers. However, the automotive experts at Edmunds note that leases made up 18 percent of transactions involving new vehicles in the middle of 2022.

That figure represented a 27 percent decline from a year earlier. That decline could be a byproduct of several variables, including the value of trade-ins. Edmunds notes that the average trade-in value of cars leased in 2020 is 19 percent higher than the predetermined

residual value, which means it makes sense for some motorists to purchase their vehicles at the end of a lease rather than turn it in.

Despite the decline in leases, the option to lease can still make sense for some drivers.

♦ Trade-in value: The value of trade-ins is very high. However, that value could be vulnerable to considerable fluctuations. The spike in average trade-in values was related to supply-anddemand issues associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of those issues have lingered, which means the supply of new vehicles is still lagging with some manufacturers. With fewer new vehicles to sell, the value of vehicles coming off a lease could be much higher than

the predetermined price lessees would pay to purchase the vehicle outright when their lease expires. In the current economic climate, it makes sense to determine the market value of a trade-in when their lease is set to expire.

♦ Budget: Millions of motorists prefer leasing because monthly lease payments on new vehicles tend to be significantly less than it would cost them to purchase the vehicle and finance it through a bank or credit union. And that still holds true, as data from Experian indicates the average monthly payment for a financed vehicle is $667, which is $127 more than the average monthly cost of leasing a car or truck. That’s a considerable cost benefit of leasing,

particularly at a time when high inflation has forced millions of households to cut back.

♦ Maintenance: Lessees are responsible for maintaining the vehicle during the lease terms, but new vehicles do not typically require the level of upkeep that older vehicles need. Drivers who are considering purchasing a leased vehicle when the lease expires should factor in the costs to maintain the vehicle in the years ahead, particularly if the manufacturer’s warranty is due to expire soon. Substantial maintenance costs could compromise drivers’ budgets, and that’s unlikely to happen if drivers turn in a leased car and begin a new lease.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative