2012 Fall Drive Whatcom by Lynden Tribune

The

and the

present

Summer 2012

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside...

A supplement of the

Drive

WHATCOM

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Kia engine lowers emissions, fuel costs ..............................................................C3

Wet road driving tips ................................ C11

Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

Still Turns Heads. Just Faster.

The 2012 Beetle. Starting at $19,795* The 2012 Beetle is completely redesigned and available with a 200-hp turbocharged engine, exclusive Fender™ Premium Audio System, and touchscreen navigation complete with Bluetooth® technology. Stop by Roger Jobs and test-drive the 2012 Beetle today.

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Starting MSRP of $19,795 for a 2012 Beetle 2.5L with manual transmission. Prices include transportation, taxes, title, other options and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price. “Volkswagen,” all model names, and the Volkswagen logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. FENDER™ is the trademark of FMIC. All rights reserved. “Carefree Maintenance” and the Carefree Maintenance logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. ©2011 Volkswagen of America, Inc.

SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

2012 Beetle a classic look at an iconic car A completely new design updates the previous updates Tim Newcomb Lynden Tribune WHATCOM — Back to classic. That’s where Volkswagen has gone with the 2012 Beetle, according to Roger Jobs Motors sales manager Travis Graddon. “The car is more classic and vintage and less retro,” he said. “Their first rendition (1998) was retro and this brings back classic, iconic design elements.” An example of those features includes a chrome beauty ring in the center of the hubcap wheel, a vintage look from early Beetles, now with a 73-year history. The body shape has also returned to days of old with a larger rocker panel protruding from the side of the vehicle. Volkswagen said that Klaus Bischoff, brand design chief, used the geometry defined by three semicircles (front wing, rear wing, domed roof above it) and gave the car a lower profile, a longer hood and a steeper front windshield. Designers also stretched the Beetle 3.3 inches wider and 6 inches longer, creating a more sporty appearance.

See BEETLE on C4

The new Beetle design harkens back to the original model's classic, iconic look. — Lynden Tribune | MITZE KESTER

MyFord Touch system allows drivers more control while watching the road Digital system is available on many new Ford vehicles Brent Lindquist Lynden Tribune

The MyFord Touch system keeps drivers safe as they interact with electronic interfaces in their Ford vehicles. — Courtesy photo | FORD

BELLINGHAM — Ford is aiming to keep drivers’ eyes on the road rather than on their vehicles’ consoles, and MyFord Touch is the company's way of accomplishing that goal. Think of MyFord Touch as a digital command center outfitted for a car. “We started with a navigation system that had a vocabulary of about 18 words I think,” said Gary Caplin, internet sales manager at Bellingham’s Diehl Ford dealership. “It had a touch screen, and voice command in Lincoln products. Ford and Microsoft then got together and they created Sync, and I think we’re on the fourth version." The new technology brought with it a DVD-based navigation system that evolved into a Secure Digital card-based system.

The companies brought in Sirius Travel, which directs drivers to desired locations, maps real-time weather and provides selective sports coverage. “Then along came MyTouch,” Caplin said. “MyTouch was an effort to take drivers’ fingers away from the screen and put them onto the steering column. The vocabulary of the navigation system is now over 10,000 words. It’s pretty intuitive, and a little daunting for some people.” MyFord Touch incorporates a wide scope of in-car functions based around the integration of mobile devices into the car’s interface. These include mobile phones, streaming music, a navigation system, a voice-activated in-car climate system, and various radio options. All on the steering column, a trip system and settings for the car can be adjusted, as well as the navigation system, climate control and phone buttons. “People find it a little daunting because it is a very robust interface to deal with,” Caplin said. “Once you read through it and get used to it, it becomes very simple.”

See TOUCH on C4

Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

Beetle: New design offers Touch: iPhone app available 2.0, 2.5-liter variants for test-driving MyFord Touch

The new Beetle's interior brings a carbon-look dashboard into the mix. — Lynden

The MyFord Touch system brings a variety of controls from the center console to the steering wheel. — Courtesy photo | FORD

Tribune | MITZE KESTER

Continued from C3 Continued from C3 Another key to the design of the new 2012 VW Beetle is the rear spoiler, integrated into the design of the car with a black top and the body color underneath. The 2012 Beetle came to the Bellingham lot about nine months ago, but a slow initial production line finally now has the local lot with enough supply to meet the growing demand, Graddon said, as people have slowly learned about the completely new vehicle. “The challenge has been getting the word out and I don’t know if people are aware there is a new Beetle,” he said. “But we’ve seen a strong interest from the north county.” Once they do take a drive, he said, folks are surprised by how quiet of a ride it is and how spacious and car-like the interior feels. With the 2012 model, Volkswagen offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine or a traditional 2.5-liter five-cylinder gas engine, with a diesel variety coming soon. The future also brings a convertible. In keeping with the fun heritage of a

Beetle, the vehicle brings painted or carbon-look dashboards, an additional glove box integrated into the dash and optional gauges (oil temperature, clock with stopwatch function and boost pressure gauge) located above the entertainment system. There’s also a split-folding rear seat. Updates for today include 19-inch wheels, a panoramic roof, keyless entry and optional customizations such as colors, wraps and an annual theme model. The steering wheel is specially designed with optional painted accents in the spokes depending on the equipment line. Key premium features available on the 2012 Beetle include the Fender premium audio system, which adds an additional subwoofer and 400 watts of output power along with proprietary Panasonic speaker technology that covers the cabin with directional sound from front door speakers and front dual voice coil speakers. Those choosing this sound system also receive adjustable interior ambiance lighting. Email Tim Newcomb at tim@lyndentribune.com.

Towing • Recovery • Tire Change • Fuel Delivery • Lock Out • Jump Start

The system’s features become even more robust when drivers register online. This allows them to access 911 assistance, which automatically dials 911 if a phone is paired and if the car hits a 45-degree angle or airbags are deployed. Vehicle health reports can also be sent via e-mail. MyFord Touch is available on a wide

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variety of new Ford vehicles. Anyone hoping to learn more can test-drive the system by downloading the “MFT Guide” app on the Apple App Store. Visit ford.com/syncmyride for more information on MyFord Touch, and visit http://diehl.dealerconnection.com to learn more about Diehl Ford in Bellingham. Email Brent Lindquist at reporter@lyndentribune.com.

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SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

New Kia engine curtails pollution, as well as fuel costs System pressurizes fuel injection, making process more efficient Brent Lindquist Lynden Tribune BELLINGHAM — Kia Motors’ new 1.6-liter gasoline direct-injection engine seems to be a win for both the consumer and for the environment. Matt Nichols, salesman at Smith Kia of Bellingham, said the engine takes a page from the book of diesel motors. “It’s a really cool piece of tech that was taken out of the diesel world which allows the gasoline to be under pressure when it’s injected into the fuel cylinder,” Nichols said. Pressurizing the gasoline leads to a wealth of benefits in many categories. The system lowers emissions by better atomizing how the fuel is burned. Only exhaust and water come out of the tailpipe, which signals that the amount of fuel coming out the pipe is minimized. Performance and horsepower are both improved. “It’s a more complete burn of the fuel as it goes through the engine,” Nichols said. “It burns a higher percentage of the

See KIA on C6

Kia's new 1.6-liter gasoline direct-injection engine helps the consumer by enhancing the vehicle's fuel economy while helping the environment by reducing harmful emissions. — Courtesy photo | KIA MOTORS

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Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

Kia: New system also lowers engine temperature

Prepare in advance for night-time driving Always keep children buckled up Summer is a great time for a road trip. With kids out of school and longer hours of daylight, many families will head out on the highway to a variety of summer vacation destinations. For many, night-time driving will be an unavoidable necessity if they want to make the most of their vacation time. It’s important to keep night-time travel as safe, comfortable and convenient as possible for everyone who rides in your vehicle. Here are some tips to help ensure good traveling:

The new direct-injection engine is available on the Kia Rio and Kia Soul, shown here. — Courtesy photo | KIA MOTORS

Continued from C5 fuel you put into your gas tank, so you’re getting a better fuel economy.” The new system also lowers engine temperatures, which helps toward a longer engine life. What it all adds up to is a more efficient system of fuel injection, thanks to the pressurization of the fuel. The more efficient engine lasts longer, has less of an effect on the environment, and delivers better performance. “It’s really the wave of the future,” Nichols said. The engine is currently available in

C.A.R.S.

Complete Auto Repair Service

the Kia Soul and Kia Rio models, but Kia is looking to include the system in other models as well. “It’s something that they’re seeking to optimize in the sedans and the V6 engines as well,” Nichols said. “Right now, it’s providing too much horsepower and it’s pushing the engines that we have over the 300-horsepower mark.” For more information about Smith Kia of Bellingham, visit SmithKia.com. For general information on Kia Motors, visit Kia.com. Email Brent Lindquist at reporter@ lyndentribune.com.

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Prepare your vehicle Before you begin your trip, make sure your vehicle is in top shape. Take care of any necessary repairs or maintenance, no matter how minor they seem, including things like checking that tires are properly inflated and the air filter is clean and functioning properly. Visibility is an important consideration for night driving. All windows, headlights and tail lights should be clean and unclouded. Check headlights to ensure they’re properly aimed; poorly aligned headlights can make it difficult for you to see the road and also blind drivers in other vehicles. Don’t overlook the importance of comfort and convenience. Outfit your vehicle with accessories that will make operating in the dark as easy as possible. Look after your passengers Before setting out, be sure that interior climate controls function properly and that all passengers have the proper safety restraints. Infants and children should ride in the back seat throughout the trip. Although it may be tempting to al-

low children to lay down in back seats and sleep during night drives, children should be properly buckled up whenever traveling in a vehicle. Put infants and toddlers in car seats appropriate for their weight and age. Children younger than 12, shorter than 4 feet 9 inches, or less than 80 pounds should use a booster seat, according to SafeKids.org. Do provide accessories like neck pillows, night lights and soothing music to encourage kids to rest during nighttime driving. Take care of yourself As the driver, you are the most important piece of safety equipment in the vehicle. Make sure you are well-rested before setting out on the road. Update eyewear prescriptions and take all necessary medications with you inside the vehicle so you’re not tempted to skip a dose while driving. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, but never drink alcohol and drive. The National Safety Council also recommends you avoid smoking while driving, since the nicotine and carbon monoxide in smoke can hinder night vision. Finally, avoid frustrated driving by minimizing distractions. Plan your route before you leave home so that you don’t have to deal with confusion over where you’re going or the distraction of trying to figure out directions while driving. Ask your passengers to take any incoming phone calls or texts on your phone — unless you’re driving in an area that prohibits cell phone use in the car altogether. Families across the country look forward to summer vacation. With a little preparation and a few well-chosen supplies and accessories, you can help ensure every hour on the road is as safe, convenient and enjoyable as possible.

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SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

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SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

Diehl Ford has vehicles for all types of uses Dealership in Bellingham tries to distinguish various characteristics Braulio Perez Lynden Tribune WHATCOM — For local drivers, the question often asked is which car can perform best in the different weather seasons of the Pacific Northwest. Residents hear about four-wheel-drive and two-wheeldrive, but may not understand the difference. Two-wheel-drive is still the standard for most cars. The engine power is carried to two wheels, resulting in either front- or rear-wheel-drive. Diehl Ford of Bellingham has new cars on its lot that feature newly installed Ford systems fitting the needs of drivers of all kinds. Chris Bonesteele, a 10-year sales associate at Diehl Ford, said there are plenty of options for both trucks and cars that drivers can purchase to get through various types of conditions. “A lot of it depends on the vehicle,” Bonesteele said. “There’s a lot of fourwheel-drive systems that can handle any type of road. An example is the new Ex-

plorer. It has four different settings for snow, sand, mud and gravel.” However, when it comes to trucks, the four-wheel-drive systems brought in by Ford are more complex than just one setting. There are both high and low settings: In four-wheel-drive high, both sets of wheels are locked in. This setting is used for drivers who are going to be traveling in snow. “The wheels work as a tandem,” Bonesteele said. “The front two work together as well as the back two. The rulebook says you can go right around 50 miles per hour.” Four-wheel-drive low also has the front and back wheels working together, but is used for a completely different purpose. In this setting, drivers are typically helping others get out of “trouble” situations. It’s meant for straight-ahead pulling and chugging. For example, if a friend is stuck in a ditch, you would use the 4x4 low to get them out. In this setting, drivers are not meant to go over 10-15 miles per hour. Last, but certainly not least, is allwheel-drive. These types of cars, typically found in Ford Fusion models, is where all the wheels act independently. Bonesteele said all-wheel-drive acts similar to an automatic four-wheel-drive because you can use it for pulling your car out of trouble and handling different weather conditions. AWD handles rain, sleet and snow

with no complications. Along with the options mentioned above, it also provides economic benefits. “The nice thing about all-wheel-drive is that it doesn’t affect your gas mileage,” Bonesteele said. “For drivers in Whatcom County, when you’re in four-wheel-drive, you’re in it so little that it won’t affect your gas mileage either.

“Obviously your mileage will drop in four-wheel-drive because your engine is working harder, but the percentage around here that you’ll use it in high or low four-wheel-drive is around 1 percent. It’d be different if you were in Alaska where you might use it considerably more.” Email Braulio Perez at sports@lyndentribune.com.

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Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

Avoid a roadside mayday ruining summer fun The temperatures are rising (finally, maybe!?), and so are the numbers of vehicles on the road. It’s prime time for summer vacations, including a number of road trips throughout the region for many families. Avoid putting a damper on your travel plans by following these summer vehicle maintenance tips from the folks at Firestone Complete Auto Care. • Check your air conditioning system in advance to make sure that it seems to be cooling effectively. An annual full-vehicle inspection, including the air conditioning system, may help avoid costly repairs. • Check your vehicle’s fluid levels. Check the engine oil and coolant level when the engine is cold. Once your vehicle is warmed up, check your transmission fluid and power steering fluid. If any fluid is low, add only enough to bring the indicator to “full” — never overfill. Have your automotive technician regularly check your vehicle’s brake fluid level and condition. • Do not overload your vehicle. Overloading creates excessive heat inside your tires and can cause tire failure, which could result in vehicle damage and serious injury. Remember that you and your passengers count toward the total recommended vehicle weight.

See TIPS on C9

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Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

With Americans traveling more this summer, take steps to stay safe An enduring love of road trips and stable gas prices are combining to increase the miles Americans expect to log during this summer’s travel season. The longer trips defy early season predictions of fewer and shorter road vacations. Gas prices rose toward $4 a gallon during the early spring of 2012. Travel industry observers expected the traditional summer price spike would scare consumers away from long driving tips. But the gas price spike didn’t materialize, and it appears that Americans apparently aren’t too worried about what happens in July and August. Only 17 percent are holding off on travel plans, waiting to see whether gas prices come down. The rest have made their plans and they’re hitting the road. Americans plan to drive an average of 212 miles farther in 2012 than they did in 2011, according to the Hankook Summer Gauge Index, which surveyed 1,012 randomly selected Americans. The mean distance of the miles survey respondents are planning to travel jumped from 725 miles in 2011 to 937 miles this year. Tips for breakdown-safe travel With more people on the road driving farther, vehicle maintenance is even more important for preventing breakdowns. Summer heat is hard on engines and tires. A few simple precautions can help reduce the chances of getting stranded on a back road, in a parking lot or, worse, on the highway: • Check fluid levels. Make sure the check includes topping off antifreeze, window washer, brake and transmission fluids. • Have your mechanic check brakes and brake pads, especially if you can’t

remember how long it's been since they were last checked. • Park your car in the shade when possible, and keep a pressure gauge handy to check tire pressure often. Heat is your tires’ enemy. Air in your vehicle’s tires expands as temperatures rise — in fact, for every 10-degree increase in ambient air temperature, your tire’s inflation pressure can go up by about 1 pound per square inch. • Check your trunk to make sure you have the tools you need to change a flat: a spare tire, a lug wrench and a jack. • Check the tread depth on your tires at least once a month to avoid hydroplaning on wet roads. On the road, what now? In addition to asking how far Americans will drive this summer, the index also asked drivers what they like to do while they’re logging miles, and with whom. Traveling with a spouse or partner was by far the most popular choice for a road trip at 48 percent. Younger Americans are more likely to travel in packs; 22 percent of drivers 35 and under are road tripping with groups of friends this summer. The lone-wolf appeal of a solo trip is pretty limited. Only 7.3 percent are traveling alone this summer. Playing music was the runaway favorite pastime, with 60 percent of drivers saying they need their tunes. Men favor music more than women — women are more likely to turn off the radio and talk to other passengers to pass the time. While talking with other passengers came in at 23 percent, singing and playing games were way down the list at 4 and 3 percent, respectively.

Tips: Running air conditioning rather than rolling down windows may help aerodynamics Continued from C8 • To get the best fuel economy while traveling, be aware of the following: 1. Due to vehicle aerodynamics, it may be more economical to run your air conditioner than to cruise with windows open. 2. When possible, maintain a constant speed to reduce strain on your vehicle’s systems. If it’s safe to do so and traffic is not too heavy, use the cruise control setting as your owner’s manual directs. 3. Do not let your vehicle idle for ex-

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tended periods. Restarting your engine uses less fuel than keeping your vehicle running. 4. Keep your tires properly inflated. Under-inflated tires can lower fuel economy. 5. Use the recommended grade of gasoline specified by your vehicle manufacturer. Mid-grade or premium fuels are unnecessary unless they are recommended. Nobody wants to be stranded in a broken-down vehicle on a hot, stuffy day. Avoid a “mayday” this season by taking all proper precautions ahead of time.

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Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

C10

SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

Ferndale Auto Repair earns AAA Top Shop Award Pete’s Auto Repair celebrates 21 years at Portal Way location Mark Reimers Ferndale Record FERNDALE — AAA Washington recently announced that Pete’s Auto Repair, at 6209 Portal Way, has been recognized as a AAA Top Shop. Before being eligible for this award, each inspected facility must meet the precise standards needed to be included in the AAA Approved Auto Repair network, according to information from the agency. For customers, AAA approval signifies guaranteed, quality service from an auto repair facility that upholds strict requirements and offers a full range of services. AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities: • Meet or exceed AAA standards regarding equipment and certified technicians, and have an excellent track record of customer satisfaction. • Guarantee service or repairs for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. • Must offer a written estimate; if requested in advance, return replaced parts; and obtain approval before doing any work beyond the original estimate. • Provide complimentary vehicle inspections to AAA members when having other services performed. • Agree to let AAA arbitrate any disputes regarding quality of service or repairs. AAA Washington evaluates every AAA Approved Auto Repair facility in Washington and northern Idaho to measure quality of repair work, customer service, and overall shop cleanliness. From data collected through customer satisfaction surveys each year, the top performing facilities are honored with a AAA Top Shop Award. Facilities that earn honors as a AAA Top Shop typically have received customer satisfaction rates close to 100 percent during the last calendar year. The Ferndale shop’s owners, Pete and Nita Harksell, have been open at their cur-

Pete and Nita Harksell recently celebrated as their auto shop, Ferndale Auto Repair, won the AAA Top Shop Award. — Ferndale

Record | MARK REIMERS

rent Portal Way location for 21 years this month. Pete Harksell got his start in the industry through his father, Pete Sr., who owned a repair shop on the Portal Way interchange with Interstate 5, which he opened in 1969. AAA Washington, serving the travel-

rating 54 Years eleb

For more information, visit AAA.com, or call 1-800-562-2582. Pete’s Auto Repair can be reached at 380-2277. Email Mark Reimers at news@ferndalerecord.com.

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SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

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Take smart steps for a better ride on wet roads Bald or poorly maintained tires won’t get you very far when it comes to driving on slippery roadways. With improper equipment and maintenance, slick surfaces from rainstorms are a major threat to safety on the road. Take control by following this advice from Firestone Complete Auto Care on ways to prepare yourself and your vehicle for possible wet weather. • During wet weather conditions, drive slowly and keep in mind that stopping distances will be longer than usual. Stopping on a wet road can take up to four times the stopping distance on a dry road. • Rainwater that mixes with oil or grime on the streets can cause slippery conditions that may result in unexpected skidding. • Drive smoothly. To maintain control of your vehicle, try to avoid jerky, abrupt movements when braking, accelerating or turning. • Check your tires at least once a month. This includes proper rotation, inflation, repair and replacement. • Hitting a pothole can damage your tire and/or the wheel of your vehicle. The sharp impact can cause immediate tire or wheel failure or internal damage that can lead to tire failure weeks later. Keeping your tires properly inflated will help reduce pothole damage and other road hazards. Here’s an extra tip about potholes: If

you do have to hit a pothole, avoid braking during the impact. Instead, attempt to brake before impact and release just prior to contacting the pothole. Braking during impact sets up the tire and wheel assem-

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bly for a “solid hit” against the edge of the hole. Less severe damage occurs when a tire is rolling, rather than skidding, over the pothole. Save yourself money on expensive re-

pairs by following these tips to help keep your vehicle running in tip-top shape. Get more driving tips to keep you and your car safe at www.firestonecompleteautocare.com.

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SMITH KIA of Bellingham *Closed-end lease based on new 2012 Optima (Model 53222 LX Auto. Trans.) subject to credit approval, dealer participation, and vehicle availability. Offer shown based on $2,499 due at lease signing including $189 first monthly payment, $1,715 capitalized cost reduction, $595 acquisition fee, plus tax, title, license and registration fees, dealer conveyance fee, processing fee or optional service fee and any emission testing charge. No security deposit required. Offer shown total lease payments are $9,114. Actual payments may vary. Purchase option at lease-end for offer shown of residual value of $12,615. Lessee is responsible for insurance, maintenance, repairs, $.20 per mile over 12,000 miles/year, excess wear, and a $400 termination fee**. Lease offer applies to Optima LX A/T (MSRP $21,750, includes freight, and excludes taxes, title, license, additional options and retailer charges). Actual prices set by dealer. Must take delivery from retail stock by 9/4/2012. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect actual lease payment. See dealer for warranty and lease details or go to kia.com. Lease offered through Kia Motors Finance (KMF) (Hyundai Motor Finance (HMF) in MA and D.C.). **Termination fee for all states except CO, IN, IA, KS, ME, OK, SC, WI, WV & WY.

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Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | Ferndale Record

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SUMMER DRIVE WHATCOM

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1C4NJDBB3CD603529

Looking to Trade Up or Just Sell Your Car? We will buy your trade even if you don’t buy one of ours. You will receive a written offer for your trade, regardless of year, make, model or condition.^

Call Our Used Vehicle Appraisers Today! ^Vehicle condition, standard equipment, minus any repair and reconditioning. May affect purchase price of vehicle purchase. Deductions may be made for any repair or reconditioning. See dealer for details.

360-734-8810 1615 Iowa Street, Bellingham dodgechryslerjeepofbellingham.com

*Disclaimer: A dealer documentary fee of up to $150 may be added to sale price or capitalized cost. Rebates subject to change. No dealer purchases. Dealership not liable for misprints or typographical errors. Credit card not accepted for payment on ad units. Advertised specials may no be combined with any other offers. Pictures are for illustration purposes only. Subject to prior sale. *Military Discount: Must have documented proof of Active Military or MIlitary Reserve service. *College Grad: Must be graduating within 6 months or prior 2 years with any degree, or currently enrolled in a masters or doctoral program.