Page 8 — Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014
Muskogee Phoenix
Fall Car Care Guide
How to stay safe on wintry roads Metro Creative
Many people will remember the winter of 2013-14 for all the wrong reasons. Record low temperatures and heavy snowfall were the story last winter. With winter now on the horizon once again, many motorists are looking for ways to ensure their daily commutes or holiday trips to visit family and friends are as safe as possible. When wintry conditions, including snowfall, compromise driving conditions, it’s best for motorists to stay home. But avoiding roadways altogether is not always an option, so motorists who simply must venture out onto the roadways this winter can employ the following strategies to ensure they safely arrive at their destinations. • Consider winter tires. Many drivers are unsure if they need winter tires. All-season tires may suffice for those drivers who live in regions where heavy snowfall is uncommon. But winter tires are designed to perform when the temperatures are especially cold and in driving conditions featuring ice, slush and snow. Drivers who live in regions where snowfall is significant or even expected to be significant may want to install winter tires just to be on the safe side. Some drivers mistakenly believe that vehicle features such as anti-lock braking systems and traction control make their tires more capable of handling wintry roads. But such features do not provide more traction. ABS and traction control only prevent drivers from over-braking or overpowering the traction of their tires. Only better tires will improve traction. • Drive slowly. Many drivers mistakenly believe they only need to drive slow when snow is falling. But winter weather can make roadways unsafe even in areas that have not witnessed a single snowflake fall from the sky. Wet winter roads can quickly turn into icy winter roads, and no ABS system or
traction control device can prevent a car that’s traveling too fast from skidding out. Poor visibility is another reason to drive slowly in winter. Peripheral vision is often compromised when driving in winter, as dirt, salt or sand buildup on windshields and side windows and mirrors can make it hard for motorists to fully view their surroundings. Even if your vision is not compromised, a fellow motorist’s might be. So ease up on the gas pedal in winter so you have more time to react to potentially adverse conditions. • Don’t drive too closely to other motorists. In addition to driving slowly, motorists also should leave extra room between their vehicles and the vehicles in front of them. In such conditions, for every 10 miles per hour drive a minimum of four car lengths behind the motorist in front of you. So if you are driving 50 miles per hour, be sure to leave 20 car lengths between you and the car ahead of you. This gives you ample time to react and builds in some extra response time should your visibility be compromised. • Maintain your vehicle. A vehicle should be maintained regardless of the season, but it’s especially important that your vehicle perform at its peak in winter. A vehicle’s battery and windshield wipers are a winter driver’s best friend, but only if they are operating at optimal capacity. Being stranded on a roadside in winter is more dangerous than in any other time of year. That’s because driver visibility is more compromised in winter, and it can be hard for motorists to see or avoid vehicles on the side of the road. Maintain proper fluid levels and make sure your battery is charged and the gas tank is full before making any winter trips. Wintry conditions often make driving especially hazardous. But drivers who adopt certain Metro Creative habits when driving in winter can greatly reduce their risk of Winter storms often make for unsafe driving conditions, and motorists must alter their habits accidents. when making winter trips.
Fall Car Care Muskogee Phoenix Advertorial Oct. 18, 2014
muskogeephoenix.com
Page 2 — Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014
Muskogee Phoenix
Fall Car Care Guide
Fall Car Care Guide
Muskogee Phoenix
Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 — Page 7
Leaves present safety hazard
Things that mar an automotive paint job
Understand risks, inconveniences to protect your vehicle, yourself
Proper care can extend the life of your car’s finish for years to come
Metro Creative
Watching leaves turn brilliant shades of color and fall from the trees is a favorite activity each fall. Drivers travel near and far to witness spectacular and colorful displays of fall foliage, hoping to catch the peak hues in their respective areas of the country. While falling leaves can be a sight to behold, those leaves can become a nuisance to drivers in various Metro Creative ways. Understanding certain Autumn and driving seem to be tailor-made for one another, and they can be if motorists exercise caution inconveniences and safety risks posed by falling when driving near fallen leaves.
leaves can help motorists protect their vehicle and themselves. Leaves can do more than just stain driveways; they also can damage a vehicle’s paint job. Should wet leaves, sap and other chemicals that leach out of the leaves stay on a car for an extended period of time, they can cause an outline stain and damage to the paint. It’s important to manually pick leaves off of the car’s surface right after they fall. Do not sweep them away; otherwise the leaves can scratch the paint surface. When all the leaves have been removed, thoroughly wash and dry the vehicle. Should stains be pres-
Do not sweep leaves away; remove them from the car’s surface by hand. ent already, use a commercial leaf-stain remover or automotive paint cleaner. Tackle one stain at a time. Leaves that fall can become trapped in air intake vents, eventually impeding flow and causing odors. Leaves that fall in the groove of the wind-
shield by the windshield wipers should be removed. Use a high-powered shop vacuum to remove any leaves that are imbedded in the venting. Check other areas of the car where leaves can become problematic, such as under the vehicle or in the rear exhaust pipe. The Car Care Council notes that wet leaves on the surface of roadways can be hazardous. Wet leaves can make roadways quite slippery, even as slippery as roadways when snow is falling. Drivers should slow down when roads are covered with wet leaves and take turns and off-ramps more carefully. Dry leaves also can pose problems, as they tend to accumulate at the edges of roads, where they easily can obscure curbs or street markings. Leaves may fill potholes, giving the false impression that a road is smooth and causing damage to tires and suspension systems when drivers drive over them. Autumn leaves may be beautiful to see, but they can complicate driving and fall car care. Motorists should keep their cars clear of leaves and use caution on roadways.
Most people purchase a car for its looks and performance. However, unless the auto is kept in a garage and never driven, it is impossible to keep it in pristine condition. In many cases, damage to the clear coat or enamel paint on the car is something vehicle owners expect. A car owner who decides he or she wants the car to remain in the best shape possible will have to take an active role in maintenance and damage prevention. One of the key things to remember is to never allow any substance to remain on the paint for too long; otherwise the risk for damage increases. Also, it may be very difficult to clean if the offender is allowed to sit on the paint. Here are some other factors to consider. • UV light: Just as UV light can affect skin, hair and other parts of the body, it also can affect the paint on a car. UV rays oxidize the paint and cause a white, powdery film to form on the car. Washing the car frequently enough and applying the best quality wax will help keep UV rays from penetrating through the paint. • Over sprays: Life does not stop to allow cars to drive through, particularly when it comes to construction zones. It’s possible for a car to be doused in paint spray, tar, concrete, and other chemicals that are routinely used in construction. Do not allow these substances to harden on the car. Rinse promptly with automotive soap. Try to avoid con-
struction zones whenever possible. • Rain: Both acid rain and regular rainwater (and other sources of water) can dissolve paint over time. The U.S. Geological Survey has said that water is a universal solvent because it can dissolve more substances than any other liquid. Whenever the car becomes wet, it should be dried with a towel or chamois and not allowed to air dry. • Natural substances: Tree sap, bird droppings and splattered insects contain compounds that can erode the paint on a car. Avoid parking under large trees where sap and bird droppings may be prevalent. In terms of bug splatter, try to wash it off as soon as possible to alleviate damage. • Eggs: Oftentimes, rambunctious children think it is funny to egg a car. However, the enzymes and sulfur content in eggs can cause paint and clear coat to dissolve, leaving white spots in the wake of the egg. Because egg can be sticky and very hard to remove once dried, it is helpful to wash it off as soon as possible. It takes only a few hours for the damage to be permanent. • Bleach: Although a bleach-and-water solution is often heralded for its ability to clean many things, it should not be used on a car. Bleach is an oxidizer and it will pit metal and discolor paint. Be careful with pool chemicals as well, as chlorinator is usually regular household bleach. There are many things that can damage a car paint job. Although it’s impossible to shield the car from everything, there are precautions that can be taken.
Metro Creative
Washing off harmful substances promptly can reduce the chances of damage to a car’s paint job.
A key thing to remember in preserving your car’s finish is to never allow any substance to remain on the paint for too long.
Page 6 — Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014
Muskogee Phoenix
Fall Car Care Guide
How to improve winter fuel economy Metro Creative
Many motorists notice that their vehicles seem to get less miles per gallon in cold weather than in warm weather. That’s not a trick of the brain, as studies have shown that cars do, in fact, have poorer fuel in economy in cold weather. According to the United States Department of Energy, fuel economy tests have indicated that, when driving in short-trip city driving, a conventional gasoline car’s gas mileage is about 12 percent lower at 20 F than it would be at 77 F. The disparity is even greater in hybrid vehicles, which can see their fuel economy decline by roughly 34 percent when driven at 20 F. Before drivers can understand how to improve their winter fuel economy, it’s beneficial to learn why cold weather has such an adverse effect on a car’s fuel economy.
A host of factors combine to reduce fuel economy in the winter. When temperatures dip, engine oil and other drive-line fluids also get colder, and this increases engine and transmission friction. That forces the vehicle to work harder and use more fuel. An engine also takes longer to reach its most fuel-efficient temperature when the weather outside is cold. This won’t have too great an impact on fuel efficiency when taking long trips, but the shorter the trip the less economical the vehicle’s use of fuel will be, as a shorter trip means the vehicle is spending a larger percentage of the overall drive at a less fuel efficient temperature. Another reason fuel economy suffers in the winter is the necessities and certain creature comforts drivers need when driving in the cold weather. Windshield defrosters
and vehicle heating systems use a substantial amount of power, and that usage forces the vehicle to expend more energy and use more fuel. And while many drivers consider heated seats one of the greatest automotive inventions known to man, those seats also use up a lot of power that negatively impacts fuel economy. But factors outside the vehicle also impact its fuel economy in the winter. For example, colder temperatures decrease tire pressure, and that increases roll resistance, which means the car must work harder and use more fuel to get down the street than it would if it were riding on fully inflated tires in the summertime. Cold air also is more dense than warm air, and that increases aerodynamic drag on the vehicle, which then needs to use more fuel to counter the increased drag. So what can be done to improve fuel economy in the winter? Fortunately, drivers can take several steps to do just that. • Park the vehicle in a garage. Leaving your car in the driveway in the winter means you might have to dig the vehicle out come winter snowstorms. But that’s not the only inconvenience of parking your vehicle outside in the winter, as doing so can adversely affect its fuel economy. When possible, park the car in the garage, as this increases the initial temperature of the engine, engine oil, drive-line fluids, and the vehicle’s cabin. This can shorten the time it takes for the engine to reach its most fuel-efficient temperature while decreasing the engine and transmission friction that negatively impacts fuel efficiency.
Fall Car Care Guide
Muskogee Phoenix
Check to ensure car is winter-ready Being stuck on the side of the road or without heat during winter temperatures is something most people would like to avoid. Automobile Service Manager Gregg Walton said the most costly and detrim e n t a l thing to an automobile is lack of mainteWalton nance. “You have to stay on top of your maintenance,” Walton said. There are several things to look for when preparing a car for the winter temperatures. John Easttom Dodge Chrysler Chevrolet, locat-
Metro Creative
Winter driving can take a toll on your vehicle’s fuel economy.
• Disregard conventional wisdom. Conventional wisdom has long suggested that idling a vehicle for several minutes will warm up the engine more quickly than simply driving. But many vehicle manufacturers now recommend that drivers idle their vehicles for no more than 30 seconds, noting that idling the car unnecessarily wastes fuel and that driving the vehicle is the fastest way to warm up its engine. If you must warm up the vehicle, stick to the now widely accepted guideline that recommends idling for no more than half a minute.
Another nugget of conventional wisdom motorists may want to ignore concerns the motor oil they use in the winter. Many vehicle manufacturers now recommend a specific type of oil to use when driving in cold weather, so follow that advice instead of adhering to past practices that may not have been as fuel efficient. • Monitor tire pressure. As noted, colder temperatures decrease tire pressure, so drivers should monitor their tire pressure regularly throughout winter to keep their vehicle safe and to ensure they are not wasting fuel.
• Remove the roof rack. Summer adventurists who love tying their mountain bike or kayak to their vehicles’ roof rack before heading off to explore parts unknown should remove those roof racks when the temperatures dip. Roof racks increase wind resistance and decrease fuel economy, so remove them during the offseasons. Fuel economy will almost certainly decrease when the mercury drops. But drivers can employ a number of strategies to make their vehicles more fuel efficient in cold weather.
Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 — Page 3
Christ Stewart, a technician at John Easttom Dodge Chrysler Chevrolet, checks a radiator hose. Stewart said hoses can clog and start to leak if not properly checked.
If you go WHAT: John Easttom Dodge Chrysler Jeep. WHEN: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. WHERE: 2307 Business U.S. 69 South, Checotah. INFORMATION: Service, (877) 488-7540. Parts, (877) 351-4541.
ed at 2307 Business U.S. 69 South in Checotah, can help winterize vehicles. Walton said it’s up to the car’s driver to be aware and notice signs or sounds of damage. “They drive it every day,” Walton said. “Make mention of it when they come in for a regular serv-
ice.” Checking belts and hoses is one way to avoid costly maintenance down the road. “The longer you let it go the worse it can get,” Walton said. Making sure the car belts aren’t cracked or frayed and making sure hoses are not swollen can be beneficial. “Make sure they aren’t too soft or too hard,” Walton said. “There’s a happy medium.” It won’t take long to realize a car heater is out when Oklahoma reaches freezing temperatures. Walton said it’s important to check a car’s heating system before the heater (See CHECK, Page 5)
Page 4 — Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014
Muskogee Phoenix
Fall Car Care Guide
Checking tires key to preparing cars for winter Family-owned Discount Tires offers free winterization check Wiseman Bros. Discount Tires is a family-owned company that has served Muskogee since 1970. Mike Wiseman, co-owner, said he is the third generation of family owners. In order to prepare a car for the coming winter, Wiseman Bros. Discount Tire offers a free winterization check at both locations, 1200 N. York St. and 503 N. 32nd St. Mark “Checkups lead to Wiseman s a v i n g money or prevention of Phoenix staff photo accidents,” Wiseman said. Wiseman said checking Wiseman Bros. Discount Tire mechanic Shawn Bird, left, changes the springs and shocks on a vehicle as coowner Mark Wiseman watches. Winterization check-ups are free at both Wiseman Bros. Discount Tire locations. tires can make a big difference on a vehicle during the winter. “You want to check belts, hoses, and antifreeze,” Wiseman said. “The main thing is the tires.” Checking air pressure is an easy way to stay on top of tire conditions. Wiseman Discount Tires will check air pressure for free. Ronnie Wiseman, service technician, said it’s important to check tires to avoid future problems. “You’re looking for choppiness on inside and outside,” Wiseman said. “Uneven wear across the tire could be an align-
If you go WHAT: Wiseman Bros. Discount Tire. WHEN: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays; 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. WHERE: 1200 N. York St. or 503 N. 32nd St. INFORMATION: 32nd Street, (918) 687-4822; York Street (918) 6877461; or online at www.muskogeetire.com.
ment problem.” Other things to look at are lack of tread, dry or cracked tires due to age. Wiseman said the standard life of a tire should be a maximum of six years. To locate the year a tire was made, Wiseman said look at the Department of Transportation or DOT code. “It’s the last four numbers, just like a bar code,” Wiseman said. The DOT code is located on the outside of the tire. The last four numbers are the manufacturers code, which reveals the week and the year the tire was made. The average cost of new tires can range from $250 to $300 on small vehicles, Wiseman said. On bigger trucks, the costs can end up in the $900 to $1,000 range. Mark Wiseman said his staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and honest. “Honesty is important,” he said. Wiseman said walk-ins are always welcome for winterization or air-pressure checks or you can call to make an appointment.
“You want to check belts, hoses, and antifreeze. The main thing is the tires.”
— Mark Wiseman, co-owner Wiseman Bros. Discount Tires
Fall Car Care Guide
Muskogee Phoenix
Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 — Page 5
Car battery care in extreme weather Metro Creative
Few things can be more frustrating than jumping into the driver’s seat on a frosty morning, turning the key in the ignition and failing to hear the engine roar to life. Frigid weather can cause trouble with a car’s battery. Some drivers do not understand why, but getting the facts can help people avoid having to deal with dead batteries on cold winter days. Cold temperatures wreak havoc on batteries because they slow the chemical reaction inside of the battery. Batteries work by combining lead plates with lead dioxide and sulfuric acid to create electrons. While batteries can function under myriad conditions, the cold weather tends to degrade high-quality batteries and may render subpar batteries useless. The cold weather can cause the fluid in the battery to freeze and lose function. A battery that is frozen will not hold a charge, and, as a result, the car won’t start. There are various ways to protect a battery from failure in the cold, and
Check Continued from Page 1A
is needed. “Make sure it’s performing properly and blowing out the vents properly.” Checking the fueling system, and draining and refilling as needed is another way to prepare a car for winter. Checking the car’s coolant/antifreeze levels can also help reduce maintenance costs.
escape and corrode surrounding areas. Regularly inspect the battery to keep abreast of issues that may cause corrosion. Carefully clean away any corrosive residue that has formed and make sure the battery is correctly seated. • Install a battery blanket. A battery blanket is used to wrap around the battery and fit inside of the battery cover. A cord with a plug runs from the blanket to a wall outlet. The blanket can produce enough heat to keep the battery fluid from freezing. A trickle charger can also be mounted on the battery. It will deliver enough power to the battery while the car is off to keep it from freezing. Metro Creative • Minimize the use of automotive accessories. Drivers should replace old car batteries before the arrival of winter weather. Do not start the car with the heater and the radio some of them involve tak- your car is still running which can usually be on. They can use up the ing precautionary meas- on its original battery and found inside of the power coming from the ures even before the your card is several years owner’s manual. old, it may be a good idea • Verify that there is no arrival of cold weather. • Assess the age of your to get a new battery corrosion. Corrosion can battery. If your battery is before the arrival of win- prevent a car from startold, now may be the time ter. Battery size will not ing just as much as a to replace it. Batteries dif- necessarily provide better worn-out battery. fer in how long they last, starting. It’s important to Corrosion is caused by a but many last anywhere buy the correct battery for faulty connection that from five to 10 years. If the make of your car, allows battery acid to
One reason Walton said more evident. Walton said in some “It’s dangerous,” Walton cases, especially in the is that it can cause the radiator area, it’s impor- car’s warning lights to said. “The least little tant to have someone come on. The other is spark will set it off.” experienced look at the car instead of trying the “do-it-yourself” approach. “Unless they have mechanical abilities, don’t mess with the cap,” Walton said. One temptation during the freezing winter temperatures is to leave the car running while getting fuel. Walton said there are two reasons that is a bad idea.
car’s alternator and prevent the battery from charging. Do not leave the heat and the radio on while the car is idling. Otherwise the car will not be putting out enough power for the alternator to charge the battery and power the electrical systems. • Disconnect the battery. If your car will be stored in a garage for the winter, disconnect the battery. Certain devices, such as clocks and alarm systems, continue to drain battery power when the vehicle is off. If your car will not be driven enough to recharge the battery, keep it disconnected when the automobile is being stored. Cold weather can sometimes wreak havoc on vehicles. Knowing how to skirt trouble with your car’s battery can keep your car on the road throughout the winter.
Page 4 — Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014
Muskogee Phoenix
Fall Car Care Guide
Checking tires key to preparing cars for winter Family-owned Discount Tires offers free winterization check Wiseman Bros. Discount Tires is a family-owned company that has served Muskogee since 1970. Mike Wiseman, co-owner, said he is the third generation of family owners. In order to prepare a car for the coming winter, Wiseman Bros. Discount Tire offers a free winterization check at both locations, 1200 N. York St. and 503 N. 32nd St. Mark “Checkups lead to Wiseman s a v i n g money or prevention of Phoenix staff photo accidents,” Wiseman said. Wiseman said checking Wiseman Bros. Discount Tire mechanic Shawn Bird, left, changes the springs and shocks on a vehicle as coowner Mark Wiseman watches. Winterization check-ups are free at both Wiseman Bros. Discount Tire locations. tires can make a big difference on a vehicle during the winter. “You want to check belts, hoses, and antifreeze,” Wiseman said. “The main thing is the tires.” Checking air pressure is an easy way to stay on top of tire conditions. Wiseman Discount Tires will check air pressure for free. Ronnie Wiseman, service technician, said it’s important to check tires to avoid future problems. “You’re looking for choppiness on inside and outside,” Wiseman said. “Uneven wear across the tire could be an align-
If you go WHAT: Wiseman Bros. Discount Tire. WHEN: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays; 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. WHERE: 1200 N. York St. or 503 N. 32nd St. INFORMATION: 32nd Street, (918) 687-4822; York Street (918) 6877461; or online at www.muskogeetire.com.
ment problem.” Other things to look at are lack of tread, dry or cracked tires due to age. Wiseman said the standard life of a tire should be a maximum of six years. To locate the year a tire was made, Wiseman said look at the Department of Transportation or DOT code. “It’s the last four numbers, just like a bar code,” Wiseman said. The DOT code is located on the outside of the tire. The last four numbers are the manufacturers code, which reveals the week and the year the tire was made. The average cost of new tires can range from $250 to $300 on small vehicles, Wiseman said. On bigger trucks, the costs can end up in the $900 to $1,000 range. Mark Wiseman said his staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and honest. “Honesty is important,” he said. Wiseman said walk-ins are always welcome for winterization or air-pressure checks or you can call to make an appointment.
“You want to check belts, hoses, and antifreeze. The main thing is the tires.”
— Mark Wiseman, co-owner Wiseman Bros. Discount Tires
Fall Car Care Guide
Muskogee Phoenix
Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 — Page 5
Car battery care in extreme weather Metro Creative
Few things can be more frustrating than jumping into the driver’s seat on a frosty morning, turning the key in the ignition and failing to hear the engine roar to life. Frigid weather can cause trouble with a car’s battery. Some drivers do not understand why, but getting the facts can help people avoid having to deal with dead batteries on cold winter days. Cold temperatures wreak havoc on batteries because they slow the chemical reaction inside of the battery. Batteries work by combining lead plates with lead dioxide and sulfuric acid to create electrons. While batteries can function under myriad conditions, the cold weather tends to degrade high-quality batteries and may render subpar batteries useless. The cold weather can cause the fluid in the battery to freeze and lose function. A battery that is frozen will not hold a charge, and, as a result, the car won’t start. There are various ways to protect a battery from failure in the cold, and
Check Continued from Page 1A
is needed. “Make sure it’s performing properly and blowing out the vents properly.” Checking the fueling system, and draining and refilling as needed is another way to prepare a car for winter. Checking the car’s coolant/antifreeze levels can also help reduce maintenance costs.
escape and corrode surrounding areas. Regularly inspect the battery to keep abreast of issues that may cause corrosion. Carefully clean away any corrosive residue that has formed and make sure the battery is correctly seated. • Install a battery blanket. A battery blanket is used to wrap around the battery and fit inside of the battery cover. A cord with a plug runs from the blanket to a wall outlet. The blanket can produce enough heat to keep the battery fluid from freezing. A trickle charger can also be mounted on the battery. It will deliver enough power to the battery while the car is off to keep it from freezing. Metro Creative • Minimize the use of automotive accessories. Drivers should replace old car batteries before the arrival of winter weather. Do not start the car with the heater and the radio some of them involve tak- your car is still running which can usually be on. They can use up the ing precautionary meas- on its original battery and found inside of the power coming from the ures even before the your card is several years owner’s manual. old, it may be a good idea • Verify that there is no arrival of cold weather. • Assess the age of your to get a new battery corrosion. Corrosion can battery. If your battery is before the arrival of win- prevent a car from startold, now may be the time ter. Battery size will not ing just as much as a to replace it. Batteries dif- necessarily provide better worn-out battery. fer in how long they last, starting. It’s important to Corrosion is caused by a but many last anywhere buy the correct battery for faulty connection that from five to 10 years. If the make of your car, allows battery acid to
One reason Walton said more evident. Walton said in some “It’s dangerous,” Walton cases, especially in the is that it can cause the radiator area, it’s impor- car’s warning lights to said. “The least little tant to have someone come on. The other is spark will set it off.” experienced look at the car instead of trying the “do-it-yourself” approach. “Unless they have mechanical abilities, don’t mess with the cap,” Walton said. One temptation during the freezing winter temperatures is to leave the car running while getting fuel. Walton said there are two reasons that is a bad idea.
car’s alternator and prevent the battery from charging. Do not leave the heat and the radio on while the car is idling. Otherwise the car will not be putting out enough power for the alternator to charge the battery and power the electrical systems. • Disconnect the battery. If your car will be stored in a garage for the winter, disconnect the battery. Certain devices, such as clocks and alarm systems, continue to drain battery power when the vehicle is off. If your car will not be driven enough to recharge the battery, keep it disconnected when the automobile is being stored. Cold weather can sometimes wreak havoc on vehicles. Knowing how to skirt trouble with your car’s battery can keep your car on the road throughout the winter.
Page 6 — Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014
Muskogee Phoenix
Fall Car Care Guide
How to improve winter fuel economy Metro Creative
Many motorists notice that their vehicles seem to get less miles per gallon in cold weather than in warm weather. That’s not a trick of the brain, as studies have shown that cars do, in fact, have poorer fuel in economy in cold weather. According to the United States Department of Energy, fuel economy tests have indicated that, when driving in short-trip city driving, a conventional gasoline car’s gas mileage is about 12 percent lower at 20 F than it would be at 77 F. The disparity is even greater in hybrid vehicles, which can see their fuel economy decline by roughly 34 percent when driven at 20 F. Before drivers can understand how to improve their winter fuel economy, it’s beneficial to learn why cold weather has such an adverse effect on a car’s fuel economy.
A host of factors combine to reduce fuel economy in the winter. When temperatures dip, engine oil and other drive-line fluids also get colder, and this increases engine and transmission friction. That forces the vehicle to work harder and use more fuel. An engine also takes longer to reach its most fuel-efficient temperature when the weather outside is cold. This won’t have too great an impact on fuel efficiency when taking long trips, but the shorter the trip the less economical the vehicle’s use of fuel will be, as a shorter trip means the vehicle is spending a larger percentage of the overall drive at a less fuel efficient temperature. Another reason fuel economy suffers in the winter is the necessities and certain creature comforts drivers need when driving in the cold weather. Windshield defrosters
and vehicle heating systems use a substantial amount of power, and that usage forces the vehicle to expend more energy and use more fuel. And while many drivers consider heated seats one of the greatest automotive inventions known to man, those seats also use up a lot of power that negatively impacts fuel economy. But factors outside the vehicle also impact its fuel economy in the winter. For example, colder temperatures decrease tire pressure, and that increases roll resistance, which means the car must work harder and use more fuel to get down the street than it would if it were riding on fully inflated tires in the summertime. Cold air also is more dense than warm air, and that increases aerodynamic drag on the vehicle, which then needs to use more fuel to counter the increased drag. So what can be done to improve fuel economy in the winter? Fortunately, drivers can take several steps to do just that. • Park the vehicle in a garage. Leaving your car in the driveway in the winter means you might have to dig the vehicle out come winter snowstorms. But that’s not the only inconvenience of parking your vehicle outside in the winter, as doing so can adversely affect its fuel economy. When possible, park the car in the garage, as this increases the initial temperature of the engine, engine oil, drive-line fluids, and the vehicle’s cabin. This can shorten the time it takes for the engine to reach its most fuel-efficient temperature while decreasing the engine and transmission friction that negatively impacts fuel efficiency.
Fall Car Care Guide
Muskogee Phoenix
Check to ensure car is winter-ready Being stuck on the side of the road or without heat during winter temperatures is something most people would like to avoid. Automobile Service Manager Gregg Walton said the most costly and detrim e n t a l thing to an automobile is lack of mainteWalton nance. “You have to stay on top of your maintenance,” Walton said. There are several things to look for when preparing a car for the winter temperatures. John Easttom Dodge Chrysler Chevrolet, locat-
Metro Creative
Winter driving can take a toll on your vehicle’s fuel economy.
• Disregard conventional wisdom. Conventional wisdom has long suggested that idling a vehicle for several minutes will warm up the engine more quickly than simply driving. But many vehicle manufacturers now recommend that drivers idle their vehicles for no more than 30 seconds, noting that idling the car unnecessarily wastes fuel and that driving the vehicle is the fastest way to warm up its engine. If you must warm up the vehicle, stick to the now widely accepted guideline that recommends idling for no more than half a minute.
Another nugget of conventional wisdom motorists may want to ignore concerns the motor oil they use in the winter. Many vehicle manufacturers now recommend a specific type of oil to use when driving in cold weather, so follow that advice instead of adhering to past practices that may not have been as fuel efficient. • Monitor tire pressure. As noted, colder temperatures decrease tire pressure, so drivers should monitor their tire pressure regularly throughout winter to keep their vehicle safe and to ensure they are not wasting fuel.
• Remove the roof rack. Summer adventurists who love tying their mountain bike or kayak to their vehicles’ roof rack before heading off to explore parts unknown should remove those roof racks when the temperatures dip. Roof racks increase wind resistance and decrease fuel economy, so remove them during the offseasons. Fuel economy will almost certainly decrease when the mercury drops. But drivers can employ a number of strategies to make their vehicles more fuel efficient in cold weather.
Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 — Page 3
Christ Stewart, a technician at John Easttom Dodge Chrysler Chevrolet, checks a radiator hose. Stewart said hoses can clog and start to leak if not properly checked.
If you go WHAT: John Easttom Dodge Chrysler Jeep. WHEN: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. WHERE: 2307 Business U.S. 69 South, Checotah. INFORMATION: Service, (877) 488-7540. Parts, (877) 351-4541.
ed at 2307 Business U.S. 69 South in Checotah, can help winterize vehicles. Walton said it’s up to the car’s driver to be aware and notice signs or sounds of damage. “They drive it every day,” Walton said. “Make mention of it when they come in for a regular serv-
ice.” Checking belts and hoses is one way to avoid costly maintenance down the road. “The longer you let it go the worse it can get,” Walton said. Making sure the car belts aren’t cracked or frayed and making sure hoses are not swollen can be beneficial. “Make sure they aren’t too soft or too hard,” Walton said. “There’s a happy medium.” It won’t take long to realize a car heater is out when Oklahoma reaches freezing temperatures. Walton said it’s important to check a car’s heating system before the heater (See CHECK, Page 5)
Page 2 — Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014
Muskogee Phoenix
Fall Car Care Guide
Fall Car Care Guide
Muskogee Phoenix
Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 — Page 7
Leaves present safety hazard
Things that mar an automotive paint job
Understand risks, inconveniences to protect your vehicle, yourself
Proper care can extend the life of your car’s finish for years to come
Metro Creative
Watching leaves turn brilliant shades of color and fall from the trees is a favorite activity each fall. Drivers travel near and far to witness spectacular and colorful displays of fall foliage, hoping to catch the peak hues in their respective areas of the country. While falling leaves can be a sight to behold, those leaves can become a nuisance to drivers in various Metro Creative ways. Understanding certain Autumn and driving seem to be tailor-made for one another, and they can be if motorists exercise caution inconveniences and safety risks posed by falling when driving near fallen leaves.
leaves can help motorists protect their vehicle and themselves. Leaves can do more than just stain driveways; they also can damage a vehicle’s paint job. Should wet leaves, sap and other chemicals that leach out of the leaves stay on a car for an extended period of time, they can cause an outline stain and damage to the paint. It’s important to manually pick leaves off of the car’s surface right after they fall. Do not sweep them away; otherwise the leaves can scratch the paint surface. When all the leaves have been removed, thoroughly wash and dry the vehicle. Should stains be pres-
Do not sweep leaves away; remove them from the car’s surface by hand. ent already, use a commercial leaf-stain remover or automotive paint cleaner. Tackle one stain at a time. Leaves that fall can become trapped in air intake vents, eventually impeding flow and causing odors. Leaves that fall in the groove of the wind-
shield by the windshield wipers should be removed. Use a high-powered shop vacuum to remove any leaves that are imbedded in the venting. Check other areas of the car where leaves can become problematic, such as under the vehicle or in the rear exhaust pipe. The Car Care Council notes that wet leaves on the surface of roadways can be hazardous. Wet leaves can make roadways quite slippery, even as slippery as roadways when snow is falling. Drivers should slow down when roads are covered with wet leaves and take turns and off-ramps more carefully. Dry leaves also can pose problems, as they tend to accumulate at the edges of roads, where they easily can obscure curbs or street markings. Leaves may fill potholes, giving the false impression that a road is smooth and causing damage to tires and suspension systems when drivers drive over them. Autumn leaves may be beautiful to see, but they can complicate driving and fall car care. Motorists should keep their cars clear of leaves and use caution on roadways.
Most people purchase a car for its looks and performance. However, unless the auto is kept in a garage and never driven, it is impossible to keep it in pristine condition. In many cases, damage to the clear coat or enamel paint on the car is something vehicle owners expect. A car owner who decides he or she wants the car to remain in the best shape possible will have to take an active role in maintenance and damage prevention. One of the key things to remember is to never allow any substance to remain on the paint for too long; otherwise the risk for damage increases. Also, it may be very difficult to clean if the offender is allowed to sit on the paint. Here are some other factors to consider. • UV light: Just as UV light can affect skin, hair and other parts of the body, it also can affect the paint on a car. UV rays oxidize the paint and cause a white, powdery film to form on the car. Washing the car frequently enough and applying the best quality wax will help keep UV rays from penetrating through the paint. • Over sprays: Life does not stop to allow cars to drive through, particularly when it comes to construction zones. It’s possible for a car to be doused in paint spray, tar, concrete, and other chemicals that are routinely used in construction. Do not allow these substances to harden on the car. Rinse promptly with automotive soap. Try to avoid con-
struction zones whenever possible. • Rain: Both acid rain and regular rainwater (and other sources of water) can dissolve paint over time. The U.S. Geological Survey has said that water is a universal solvent because it can dissolve more substances than any other liquid. Whenever the car becomes wet, it should be dried with a towel or chamois and not allowed to air dry. • Natural substances: Tree sap, bird droppings and splattered insects contain compounds that can erode the paint on a car. Avoid parking under large trees where sap and bird droppings may be prevalent. In terms of bug splatter, try to wash it off as soon as possible to alleviate damage. • Eggs: Oftentimes, rambunctious children think it is funny to egg a car. However, the enzymes and sulfur content in eggs can cause paint and clear coat to dissolve, leaving white spots in the wake of the egg. Because egg can be sticky and very hard to remove once dried, it is helpful to wash it off as soon as possible. It takes only a few hours for the damage to be permanent. • Bleach: Although a bleach-and-water solution is often heralded for its ability to clean many things, it should not be used on a car. Bleach is an oxidizer and it will pit metal and discolor paint. Be careful with pool chemicals as well, as chlorinator is usually regular household bleach. There are many things that can damage a car paint job. Although it’s impossible to shield the car from everything, there are precautions that can be taken.
Metro Creative
Washing off harmful substances promptly can reduce the chances of damage to a car’s paint job.
A key thing to remember in preserving your car’s finish is to never allow any substance to remain on the paint for too long.
Page 8 — Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014
Muskogee Phoenix
Fall Car Care Guide
How to stay safe on wintry roads Metro Creative
Many people will remember the winter of 2013-14 for all the wrong reasons. Record low temperatures and heavy snowfall were the story last winter. With winter now on the horizon once again, many motorists are looking for ways to ensure their daily commutes or holiday trips to visit family and friends are as safe as possible. When wintry conditions, including snowfall, compromise driving conditions, it’s best for motorists to stay home. But avoiding roadways altogether is not always an option, so motorists who simply must venture out onto the roadways this winter can employ the following strategies to ensure they safely arrive at their destinations. • Consider winter tires. Many drivers are unsure if they need winter tires. All-season tires may suffice for those drivers who live in regions where heavy snowfall is uncommon. But winter tires are designed to perform when the temperatures are especially cold and in driving conditions featuring ice, slush and snow. Drivers who live in regions where snowfall is significant or even expected to be significant may want to install winter tires just to be on the safe side. Some drivers mistakenly believe that vehicle features such as anti-lock braking systems and traction control make their tires more capable of handling wintry roads. But such features do not provide more traction. ABS and traction control only prevent drivers from over-braking or overpowering the traction of their tires. Only better tires will improve traction. • Drive slowly. Many drivers mistakenly believe they only need to drive slow when snow is falling. But winter weather can make roadways unsafe even in areas that have not witnessed a single snowflake fall from the sky. Wet winter roads can quickly turn into icy winter roads, and no ABS system or
traction control device can prevent a car that’s traveling too fast from skidding out. Poor visibility is another reason to drive slowly in winter. Peripheral vision is often compromised when driving in winter, as dirt, salt or sand buildup on windshields and side windows and mirrors can make it hard for motorists to fully view their surroundings. Even if your vision is not compromised, a fellow motorist’s might be. So ease up on the gas pedal in winter so you have more time to react to potentially adverse conditions. • Don’t drive too closely to other motorists. In addition to driving slowly, motorists also should leave extra room between their vehicles and the vehicles in front of them. In such conditions, for every 10 miles per hour drive a minimum of four car lengths behind the motorist in front of you. So if you are driving 50 miles per hour, be sure to leave 20 car lengths between you and the car ahead of you. This gives you ample time to react and builds in some extra response time should your visibility be compromised. • Maintain your vehicle. A vehicle should be maintained regardless of the season, but it’s especially important that your vehicle perform at its peak in winter. A vehicle’s battery and windshield wipers are a winter driver’s best friend, but only if they are operating at optimal capacity. Being stranded on a roadside in winter is more dangerous than in any other time of year. That’s because driver visibility is more compromised in winter, and it can be hard for motorists to see or avoid vehicles on the side of the road. Maintain proper fluid levels and make sure your battery is charged and the gas tank is full before making any winter trips. Wintry conditions often make driving especially hazardous. But drivers who adopt certain Metro Creative habits when driving in winter can greatly reduce their risk of Winter storms often make for unsafe driving conditions, and motorists must alter their habits accidents. when making winter trips.
Fall Car Care Muskogee Phoenix Advertorial Oct. 18, 2014
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