Performance Issues That Can Affect Older Cars
Modern cars have much longer life spans than one may expect. Not too long ago, drivers often commemorated the milestone of their vehicles reaching the 100,000-mile mark. However, data from Car and Driver indicates the average vehicle now lasts around 12 years or roughly 200,000 miles. More advanced electric or hybrid vehicles may be able to go even further, with some capable of reaching as much as 300,000 miles.
According to a 2006 report from Consumer Reports, vehicles made in Japan and Korea have fewer problems per 100 vehicles than those made by American and European manufacturers, making them tops in vehicle longevity.
Thanks to advancements in technology, cars are more durable than ever, but that doesn’t make them impervious to breakdowns or the need for repairs. A recent report from AAA found that more than two-thirds of service calls were for vehicles a decade or older. Here’s a look at some of the problems that can affect older vehicles.
Battery
The average car battery lasts between three and five years, according to Auto Zone. Batteries tend to show signs of wear at the fouryear mark on average. Corrosion or dirt on battery
terminals also can affect battery performance.
Electrical System
Electrical system issues can be caused by anything from burnt out car fuses to bad or faulty electrical connections and contacts.
Corroded or loose screws, nuts and wires can cause electrical issues, which may be more common in older vehicles that have significant mileage on them.
Suspension
The suspension system is comprised of springs, tires, shock absorbers, struts, antisway bars, and other parts that connect the vehicle to the wheels. Suspension systems regulate the amount of bouncing in the vehicle while on the road and make it manageable. Eventually,
all suspension systems can and will wear out, and parts will need to be serviced or replaced.
Evaporative Emissions
The evaporative system consists of a network of hoses, canisters and valves. It helps vent pressure in the gas tank. An older vehicle may end up with a cracked hose that can cause a fuel leak. Hoses also may be compromised elsewhere in vehicles, so these points should be checked during routine maintenance.
Braking system
As with other moving parts on a car, the brake system wears down over time and parts will need to be replaced. Squealing, squeaking or a soft brake pedal are indicative of braking system
issues and should be looked at by a mechanic promptly.
Obsolete Components
Modern vehicles are increasingly being controlled by computers. These computers handle a variety of features, including navigation and pairing to mobile phones, among others. Over time, systems may no longer work if there are no computer updates available. That means Bluetooth pairing may no longer function, or maps may not be current for GPS systems.
Cars and trucks have longer life spans due to technological advancements. However, age is still a factor in the deterioration of different vehicle systems.
Avoid Drowsy Driving Incidents
Driving offers a sense of freedom that is hard to replicate. Is it any wonder young drivers are so eager to get their licenses while older drivers aim to hold on to them as long as they can?
Certain hazards come with getting behind the wheel, though most are largely preventable — including drowsy driving. As more people take to the roadways this spring and summer, it is important to remember that drowsy driving is a major problem.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that as many as 6,000 fatal crashes each year may be attributed to drowsy drivers. The National Sleep Foundation found about half of adult drivers in the United States admit to consistently getting behind the wheel while feeling drowsy. In addition, more than 40 percent of survey respondents say they have fallen asleep behind the wheel at least once.
The impact of drowsiness on driving is just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated, distracted or under the influence of both legal and illegal drugs.
• Reaction times are greatly reduced and worsen the drowsier the driver becomes.
• Awareness of hazards and the ability to sustain attention are diminished.
• Driving after being awake more than 20 hours
without sleep is the equivalent of driving with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent.
• The National Safety Council warns that fatigued drivers are three more times more likely to be in a car crash than drivers who are not fatigued.
• Insufficient sleep is tied to poor decision-making, which can lead to risk-taking behind the wheel.
Some drivers may not recognize they are driving while drowsy. Drivers with certain sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, may not recognize that their interrupted, less restorative sleep can adversely affect their safety behind the wheel. Addressing sleep disorders can help drivers be more safe. Other people may be sleep deprived from working shift hours or taking care of young children. Asking for help to catch up on sleep can alleviate drowsiness when behind the wheel.
Individuals can take additional steps to make them less susceptible to drowsy driving.
• Avoid driving between midnight and 6 a.m. or in the mid-afternoon when sleepiness peaks, according to the Sleep Foundation.
• Ask to change medications if they cause drowsiness. Check to see if supplements list drowsiness as reactions and avoid those that do.
• Take breaks when driving long distances. Travel with a driving partner who can share the responsibility of driving.
Terms Consumers Should Know When Purchasing A Vehicle
Buying a new car is no small task. When shopping for a new car, it’s easy to let details like the color of the vehicle and creature comforts like connectivity take control of the transaction, but buyers also know how important the bottom line can be.
Next to a home, a car might be the most expensive item many consumers ever purchase. In fact, according to Cox Automotive, the average transaction price of a new vehicle in the United States in early 2023 was just over $48,000. A lot of money changes hands at car dealerships every day, so buyers can undoubtedly benefit from learning or relearning the lingo that surrounds such transactions.
• Annual percentage rate (APR): The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau notes that APR is the cost consumers pay each year to borrow money. This includes fees and buyers should know that APR is different from the interest rate. Drivers can negotiate a lower APR, and the CFPB notes that it can benefit buyers to compare
the APR on competing auto loans.
• Balloon payment: The balloon payment is a large sum that is due at the end of some auto loans. Many drivers will pay a predetermined amount each month during the terms of the loan. Once that loan reaches maturity, they then own the car outright. With a balloon loan, buyers still make monthly payments, but when the loan reaches maturity they must make a balloon payment in order to take full ownership of the vehicle.
• Capitalized cost reduction: The online financial resource Investopedia notes that a capitalized cost reduction is any upfront payment that reduces the cost of financing. This can include a cash down payment and a trade-in vehicle.
• Closed-end lease: Individuals considering leasing their next vehicle will likely come across this term. Car and Driver notes that a closed-end lease is one that gives the driver leasing the vehicle the option to buy it at
a set price at the end of the term or walk away without any financial liability (damage or modifications to the vehicle upon returning it may result in charges).
Leases typically are closedend, but it’s still best that drivers confirm that prior to signing on the dotted line.
• Dealer preparation fees: The lending experts at Capital One note that dealer
preparation fees are the charges a dealership issues to prepare a car for transfer to the buyer. These fees might cover the cost of washing the vehicle and additional services before buyers take it off the lot.
Capital One notes these fees average between $100 and $500, and buyers should know that they are negotiable.
• Extended warranty: Car and Driver warns that most extended warranties offered by dealerships cover very little, so buyers should read the terms carefully before purchasing an extended warranty. Extended warranties offered by manufacturers tend to be more useful to buyers.
• MSRP: This familiar acronym stands for “Manu-
facturer’s Suggested Retail Price.” The MSRP is the total of the base price plus all of the options listed on the window sticker of the vehicle.
• Prepayment penalties: Prepayment penalties penalize drivers for paying off a loan before it reaches maturity. Though the vast majority of drivers who finance the purchase of a vehicle will not have prepayment penalties in their agreements, buyers with lower credit scores might. Anyone with such a penalty in the terms of their agreement should try to negotiate it out of the deal.
• Term: The term refers to the length of the purchase or lease agreement. Many leases feature terms between 12 and 36 months, while purchase agreements can feature terms as long as 72 months (six years).
Knowing the lingo before buying a new car can increase the chances drivers get a good deal on their next vehicle. 9 9 9 9 9 9
A Sparkling Clean Car
How often do you wash your car? Every week? Once a month? Whenever you feel like it? Some of us wash our cars more regularly than others. We take it to an automatic car wash, or if we are feeling energetic, we pull it into the driveway, get out the hose and bucket, and wash it ourselves. If you choose the latter, keep in mind that there is a right and a wrong way to wash a car. For the ultimate protection, you should wash your car on a regular basis. Don’t wait until it is covered in bugs, dirt and other debris. The longer contaminants sit on the surface, the more damage they do. If you commute a long distance or live in an area with acid rain, rinse off your car often to remove contaminants and prevent damage to the finish. No matter how much rinsing you do, you need to wash your car from time to time. Do so in the morning while your car is still cool to the touch. Don’t wait until the late afternoon when it is hot. The heat on the surface will dry the soap and water quickly, leaving behind a dull film on the finish. Select products made for washing cars. Don’t use regular household deter-
gents, which could scratch the finish, remove the protective wax coating and dull the paint. If you have a lot of bugs and tar on your car, you may need to purchase a product for that. To wash your car, fill up two buckets, one with soapy water and the other with rinse water, and use several large sponges or wool’s mitts. Rinse off the car first to remove all loose debris. This will prevent the debris from getting scrubbed into the finish and scratching the paint. Then wash the car in
sections, leaving the tires and wheels for last.
When you have finished with the body of your car, it’s time to attack the tires and wheels. Use a clean sponge and wipe away all of the dirt and grim. For tough spots, use wheel cleaner and a brush.
When you have completed washing your car, rinse it off all over one more time, using a fine spray at a low angle. Then dry it with terry cloths. Don’t let your car dry on its own. Water spots will appear, and after a while,
these can wear into the paint and become permanent marks.
Depending upon the size of your car, it should take you anywhere from half an hour to a couple of hours to wash your car. Don’t forget about the interior. You might as well clean it too, or at the very least, remove all of the trash from it.
A clean car is a happy car. Keep yours happy and looking its best by washing it regularly.
Modern Vehicle Features Drivers Love And Make Driving Fun
Modern vehicles are technological marvels, which has had a profound effect not only on how much drivers enjoy driving, but also how much they’re spending to get behind the wheel.
Data from Cox Automotive indicates that the average transaction price of a new vehicle in March 2023 was just over $48,000. That can raise the eyebrows of any budget-conscious car enthusiast, but it’s also worth noting that modern vehicles have become more economical in other ways. For instance, the Environmental Protection Agency indicated that the average fuel efficiency for new cars recently improved to a record 25.4 miles per gallon. More fuel-efficient cars and trucks can lower the costs of vehicle ownership.
Many drivers feel that, in addition to being more fuelefficient, modern vehicles are more fun. That’s because modern vehicles boast a number of popular creature comforts that have changed
the way people drive. Drivers who haven’t shopped for a new car in recent years can look for any number of fun features as they begin their search for a new vehicle.
• Electronic door handles: Though not as common as some features, electronic door handles provide a futuristic, if not entirely
necessary, feel. These door handles automatically extend out when drivers approach their cars and then retract when not in use. This feature is mainly about style, but it also reduces aerodynamic drag, which can help save fuel or, in electric vehicles, improve driving range.
• Touchscreens: Screens feature prominently in many parts of the average person’s day, so why not when they’re in their vehicles as well?
Though vehicle touchscreens have been around for years, auto manufacturers are increasingly switching controls for other components, including windshield wipers, to touchscreens, making for a more sleek interior design that is largely button- and knob-free. In addition, various manufacturers are offering larger touchscreens, which can simplify driving in cars that no longer feature physical controls.
• Keyless entry: Keyless entry systems, though not new, are another component that can provide a futuristic feel. Keyless entry systems once enabled drivers to keep their key fobs in their pocket and simply unlock their
vehicles by pressing a button on the door handle. Though some manufacturers still offer button keyless entry systems, more modern systems automatically unlock as drivers reach for the handle or pull it open.
• Head-up display: Arguably as futuristic a feature as car buyers may encounter, the head-up display feature puts information directly in drivers’ line of sight so they are never looking anywhere but toward the road. Information such as vehicle speed and navigation instructions are projected onto the interior of the windshield, not unlike similar systems that have long been utilized in military planes.
Modern vehicles are loaded with futuristic features that can make driving more fun.
Did You Know?
Fully functional headlights are an important safety feature on cars and trucks. While halogen bulbs were common in the past, modern vehicles now largely utilize high intensity discharge (HID) bulbs or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). HIDs work similarly to fluorescent bulbs by passing an electric current through an inert gas in a glass cylinder. LEDs are semiconductors that emit light when powered by an electric current. LEDs and HIDs are now used because they are efficient and last longer. These headlights quickly replaced halogen bulbs as the industry standard, but many drivers have lamented that they are increasingly feeling blinded by headlight glare. In March 2020, the Ford Motor Company recalled several F-150s because their headlights were too bright. According to Donut Media, an American automotive content brand, the typical halogen bulb puts out 1,300 lumens of light and the average LED emits 1,600 lumens. But HIDs can emit up to 3,000 lumens. Popular Science magazine also says HID and LED headlights are a different color temperature than halogens. These newer lights put out whiter and bluer light. Human eyes are very sensitive to blue light, so these blue-white bulbs automatically seem brighter even when they’re not emitting more lumens. Headlights also are supposed to be positioned correctly at a certain angle to reduce blinding glare.
Routine Maintenance
To Protect Your Vehicle
Most people today are interested in saving money. With an economy that hasn’t fully rebounded and economic uncertainty still looming, the search is on for ways to stretch money further. Unfortunately, some motorists think that skimping on routine vehicle maintenance is an easy way to save a few dollars. While this might work in the short term, failure to properly maintain a vehicle will almost certainly come back to haunt you down the road.
• Don’t skimp on necessities. It’s best to replace a timing belt, spark plugs and tires on schedule, rather than risk inconvenient vehicle breakdowns and the need for costly repairs in the near future. Staying on top of monitoring worn auto parts both big and small will result in less wear and tear, helping the vehicle retain its resale value.
• Follow guidelines for oil changes. Motor oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine, and it’s best to adhere to oil change schedules set by either the vehicle or lubricant manufacturer. This will ensure the vehicle is adequately lubricated and running as efficiently as possible. When selecting motor oil consider synthetic lubricants, which greatly enhance a vehicle’s performance. The uniform molecular structure of synthetic oil helps engines operate more efficiently by reducing friction and wear, while improving performance in extreme temp-
eratures. Premium synthetic motor oils also have the ability to improve fuel economy and are better for the environment because they require fewer changes.
• When cold weather arrives have antifreeze performance checked. Your mechanic should be happy to check antifreeze levels for free. When a hydrometer shows it can no longer withstand temperatures of 30 degrees or lower, the antifreeze should be replaced. This typically occurs every two years. It’s also a good idea to occasionally turn on the air conditioner in the car during the winter, just to ensure it stays lubricated.
• Keep tires properly inflated. Fluctuations in temperature can mean fluctuations in the inflation level of tires as well. Tires that are not properly inflated can lead to poor fuel efficiency and premature wear. It’s a good idea to get in the habit of checking the PSI level at least once a month.
• Use well-tested products. There are shelves and shelves of products at auto parts stores and big box retailers. It pays to do your research into the products professionals recommend.
• Set up a maintenance schedule and document maintenance. Whenever you do routine vehicle maintenance or have significant work done, keep good records. Keeping track of maintenance can be useful to show how well you cared for the car and increase its resale value when it comes that time.
Stock Up On Vehicle Breakdown Supplies
Unforeseen situations can crop up at any time. Anyone who has had a roadside breakdown in their car understands this. A flat tire or an engine malfunction is something no driver wants to experience, but those with a well-stocked vehicle emergency kit and breakdown strategy can get through most situations rather easily.
A 2017 survey from AAA found that 40 percent of drivers in the United States are not ready to handle a typical roadside emergency breakdown. The organization estimates it helps some seven million motorists get back on the road each summer. A well-equipped roadside emergency kit may help drivers get their vehicles back on the road on their own.
• First aid kit: The first aid kit celebrated its 135th birthday in 2023. The Johnson & Johnson company began commercializing first aid kits in 1888. Having a first aid kit in the car to treat minor injuries can be helpful in the event of an accident or even after injuring oneself during a breakdown.
• Fire extinguisher: Cars are full of various mechanical parts and are susceptible to catching on fire. The National Fire Protection Association says vehicle fire extinguishers need to be rated for Class B and C fires.
• Jumper cables: A weak or dead battery is often the culprit in breakdowns. Jumper cables enable drivers to get a charge from another motorist, and may help get a person back on the road quickly. If possible, get a set of cables that also comes
with safety gloves and heavy duty clamps, offers Defensive Driving Online, a defensive driving course.
• Mobile phone/charger: A mobile phone is essential for calling for assistance, but the phone is only useful if it’s charged.
• Blanket: Keep a blanket in the trunk or another storage area. Should the vehicle die in cold weather, that blanket can help keep passengers warm until assistance arrives.
• Basic tools: Tools like a screwdriver, ratchet set and wrench may enable drivers to complete minor repairs. Tools also should include tire-changing gear, such as a jack and lug nut remover.
• Traction aid: Nonclumping kitty litter or sand can provide the traction needed to get off of a slippery area of roadway.
• Flashlight: A flashlight
can help keep you visible and able to see your surroundings in dark conditions.
• Flares: Should a breakdown occur in the dark, flares can alert other drivers.
• Snacks and water: Water and food that stores well, such as emergency rations, granola bars or trail mix, can quell hunger pangs and
provide an energy boost while waiting for help.
• Rope/bungee cords/tarp: These items can be used in various situations to secure a vehicle.
While drivers can gather these items separately, many companies offer all-in-one vehicle emergency kits. A safety kit is essential for all drivers.
What To Do Before Trading In Your Vehicle
Trade-ins are a vital component of many automobile transactions. A recent report from the National Automobile Dealers Association revealed that 22 percent of all pre-owned vehicle sales included a trade-in.
Drivers want to get the most value they can for their trade-ins. Though some factors, like the age of the vehicle, are beyond drivers’ control, there are many steps drivers can take before trading in a car to maximize its value.
Tips For Driving At Night
Driving requires drivers to use their senses so they, their passengers and their fellow motorists can safely traverse the roadways. When any of those senses are compromised, the risk for accident increases.
affect light output. The angle of the lamp also is a factor. Some headlights may need a periodic angle adjustment.
• Do your homework. It’s never been easier to determine the value of a car prior to trading it in. Resources like NADA, Black Book and Kelley Blue Book can give drivers a good idea of what they will get for a given vehicle when trading it in. According to Kelley Blue Book, roughly 54 percent of trade-in vehicles qualify as “good condition,” so drivers should be realistic as they determine the value of their tradein. A trade-in value that is designated for vehicles that qualify as “excellent” is likely unrealistic, though not impossible.
• Hone your negotiation skills. Dealers may initially offer less than drivers expect, as they, too, will try to make the transaction as beneficial as possible to their bottom lines. In such situations, drivers who want to get a better trade-in value should be prepared to negotiate. Some dealerships may not budge on their initial trade-in values, but some might, and drivers prepared to negotiate a better value are in the best position to get a good deal.
• Shop around for a deal. Trade-in values may not fluctuate wildly between dealerships, but they likely won’t be exactly the same, either. Patiently shopping around for the best deal for your trade-in can ensure you get the best deal possible. Request all trade-in offers be made in writing, and don’t hesitate to take one offer to other dealers to see if they will match or exceed a competitor’s offer. Don’t discount working with less traditional sellers, such
as online dealerships like CarMax.
• Give the vehicle a thorough inspection. No matter what resources like Kelley Blue Book or NADA suggest, no car is going to get top dollar at trade-in if it doesn’t look good or run smoothly. Address any dings or dents, clean the interior and exterior of the vehicle and take the car to a mechanic to determine if there are any issues that should be addressed to improve tradein value. Dealerships may want to examine the car prior to making a trade-in offer, so the car should be tended to prior to visiting a dealership. In addition, drivers who conduct their own inspections are in better position to negotiate should dealerships point to certain issues with the car. Trade-ins are a big part of buying and selling cars. Drivers can look to various strategies to ensure they get a great deal on their trade-in.
Sight is vital to safe driving. Individuals who have vision problems must correct these issues by wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses to stay safe behind the wheel. But what if the condition affecting vision is nighttime?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that accidents happen in greater frequency at night, when the passenger vehicle occupant fatality rate is around three times higher than the daytime rate. That’s despite the fact that there are far fewer cars on the road at night than during the daytime.
Reduced visibility and drowsiness behind the wheel after the sun goes down may cause many people to avoid driving at night. But driving at night isn’t always avoidable, especially during the months when the sun sets early. When forced to drive at night, drivers can follow these tips to make it safer and easier.
• Get enough rest. Skip the road trip if you are feeling tired or if you have taken medication that can cause drowsiness.
• Improve headlight visibility. Make sure headlights are in good working order and that the plastic covering on the headlights is not cloudy, which can adversely
• Stick to multi-lane roadways. Today’s vehicles are typically equipped with LED lights rather than halogen or incandescent bulbs. A study in the SAE International Journal of Passenger Cars found that these LED lamps were “generally perceived to be brighter than a standard incandescent lamp.” Although these lamps may help drivers see in front of them while driving, oncoming drivers often claim they are blinded. Oncoming lights can be particularly intense on a two-lane road. On a multi-lane road, you can put yourself at a distance from oncoming cars if you stick to an outer lane.
• Clean your windshield. A dirty windshield can cause additional glare and also make it challenging to see the road.
• Slow down and watch the shoulder. It can be difficult to see pedestrians and animals at night. Deer often are struck at dusk or overnight, particularly between the months of October and January.
• Get an eye exam. Agerelated vision changes can compromise vision and perception of glare. Speak with an eye professional about which coatings can be applied to glasses to help with glare and if any tweaks to prescriptions need to be made.
Nighttime driving requires a few different strategies to make it safer and more comfortable to drive after the sun sets.
What To Expect From EV Charger Installation
Amid the nearly 285 million vehicles on the road, there are now 1.7 million electric cars in operation in the United States, according to Experian. That figure only stands to grow as tax incentives, environmental perks and other benefits to driving electric vehicles expand.
Now that more EVs are on the roadways, drivers need ready access to charging stations to power their rides. Although there has been an influx in stations available in shopping centers and rest stops, nothing beats the convenience of an EV charger at home.
There are things homeowners need to know about EV charger installation. EV charger installation is a job best left to a qualified electrician because of its complexity.
There are three EV chargers available today: level one, level two and level three. The higher the number, the faster the charging and the more energy required. According to PC Mag, most home installations involve level two chargers. Compared to level one, which plugs into a standard wall outlet (120V) and can take 10 hours or more to charge a vehicle, level two cuts that charging time in half. Due to the extra energy draw, level two chargers often require adjustments to a home’s electrical system, which likely will include installing dedicated circuits and outlets.
New York State Charge NY says that level two chargers use higher voltage between 108 and 240V. They can provide around 20 miles
Four Signs It May Be Time To Replace Your
Inflation has been a hot topic for several years, as the cost of everything from groceries to gas to housing has increased considerably since 2019. Cars are no exception to that phenomenon, and anyone who has purchased a new car over the last half decade likely experienced some sticker shock when they started their search for a new vehicle. Data from Kelley Blue Book indicates the average cost of a new car was $37,590 in 2019. By 2023, the average cost had risen to $47,899. That marks an increase of more than 27 percent in a four-year period. Cars are indeed a significant investment, which underscores the importance of vehicle maintenance. Maintenance is more than just tending to what’s under the hood. Tires also require drivers’ attention, as aging, damaged tires pose a safety risk that also compromise vehicle performance. Tires are easily overlooked, but the following are four signs tires need to be replaced.
1. Worn tread: The automotive experts at AutoZone® note that tread depth is the most prevalent indicator that a tire needs to be replaced. AutoZone® notes that tread depth should always be at least 2⁄32 of an inch throughout the tire. Depth should be measured across the tread and around the circumference. If the tread is at or below 2⁄32 of
an inch, the tire should be replaced.
2. Bulges, gouges or cracks: Geico® notes that a deflated tire bulges at the sides, and that can compromise the safety of everyone in the vehicle. AutoZone® says bulges occur when air gets between the inner liner and outer rubber layers, which can happen after hitting a curb or driving over
a sizable pothole. A gouge or cut that is deeper than the outer layer of the tire also necessitates replacement.
3. Poor grip: Drivers may be able to feel certain tire problems, including poor grip, while driving. In such instances, tires may feel as though they are slipping.
The tire experts at Firestone note that low tread can reduce tire traction and
cause wheels to slip, which may be more noticeable when accelerating from a stop or driving on wet roads. Drivers who feel their tires are slipping can test the tread and replace tires that are low.
4. Vibration: Vibration is another issue drivers may feel rather than see. And identifying the cause requires noting where the vibrations are felt. Geico® notes that a feeling of vibration or thumping that feels like it’s coming from under the seats may indicate the tires are not balanced. A suspension issue could be to blame if the steering wheel feels like it’s vibrating. Either feeling should be brought to the attention of a mechanic immediately. Tire issues affect vehicle performance and compromise the safety of drivers, their passengers and fellow motorists. When vehicles are not performing at peak capacity, drivers should not overlook various tire issues as a potential cause of such troubles. 9 9 9 9 9
of range in an hour, and after three to six hours most EVs are fully charged.
MotorTrend magazine says most homeowners will spend between $1,150 and $2,750 to purchase and install a level two charging station. Qmerit, a nationwide specialist in installing EV charging equipment, says the charger itself can cost between $350 and $750, and the installation varies depending on the electrician. If extensive work needs to be done to the electrical panel, particularly in older homes with outdated circuitry, it can cost more. Replacing wires also may require working with a local utility
company, which extends the installation timeline. It is wise to be prepared for such circumstances.
When shopping for an EV charger, consider these features.
• Choose a cord that is 20 feet in length or longer for greatest flexibility and reach, whether in the garage or outside. Also, if a future EV has a charging port in a different location than a current vehicle, a longer cord will reach it.
• Ensure the chargers are UL- or ETL-certified, which means they meet industry safety standards.
• Consider whether Wi-Fi connectivity is desired.
Smart chargers can track energy usage or allow you to program charging times remotely.
• Having the charger hardwired could be a smart idea. Qmerit recommends hardwiring all wall chargers to
prevent nuisance tripping, which occurs when a ground-fault circuit-interrupting breaker on both the electrical system and charger can cause the circuit breaker to cut power unnecessarily.
• Do your homework to
find a reputable electrician who will be qualified to install an EV charging station. Choose an electrician who will pull permits and do load calculations to ensure everything is in compliance with local codes.
What To Do In The Aftermath Of A Car Accident
Car accidents happen every day. Though the World Health Organization reports that approximately 1.35 million people die each year as a result of road traffic crashes, many more people walk away from such accidents relatively unscathed. In such instances, knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath of an accident can help drivers and passengers stay safe and start on their road to physical and financial recovery.
No two car accidents are the same, but the Insurance Information Institute recommends anyone involved in a car accident take the following steps to make the most informed decisions in what is often a difficult situation.
• Assess your physical condition. The III recommends people involved in accidents check themselves for injuries in the immediate aftermath of an accident. Call 911 if you are hurt. If you’re seriously injured, try to remain still and only move with the assistance of emergency response personnel.
• Assess passengers’ physical condition. Drivers who are not too hurt to move can check on their passengers after assessing their own
Considerations When Shopping For Your Young Driver’s First Vehicle
Getting
or
is
is
A teenager’s first ride may be a family car that is not used frequently by parents or a vehicle that is shared among the household. Over time, juggling usage can prove difficult, and parents and children may decide the moment has come to shop for an additional vehicle. These guidelines can make car shopping for young drivers go smoothly.
Budget
Cost is a concern when buying a vehicle. Calculate how much the teen will be contributing and how much parents may be putting into the equation. Check with the financing department to determine if a teen is eligible to take out a loan.
If not, a loan might need to be co-signed by an adult. Insurance costs also must be considered. Certain vehicles are more expensive to insure than others, so finding one that won’t break the bank to insure is a good idea.
Safety
The automotive experts at AAA note that teenagers are among the riskiest drivers
due to their inexperience, so it’s important to choose a vehicle that gets high safety marks. Features to look for include automatic emergency braking, sidecrash prevention systems, lane departure, blind spot alerts, and other accident prevention options. Midsize sedans are safe and easy enough to maneuver, and
they have shorter braking distances than most SUVs. New or Preowned
Both new and preowned vehicles have various pros and cons. It may be difficult for a teen to afford a new car and make monthly payments, but new cars often come with warranties and other protections. Preowned cars may not have all of
the safety features of newer vehicles, but many are certified preowned, which gives buyers some peace of mind in case service work is needed. Also, parents may not be so worried about teens dinging up a used vehicle rather than one right out of the showroom.
Reliability
It may be tempting to purchase the least expensive vehicle, but price should not always be the deciding factor. Reliability should be a major consideration. Check that the vehicle (if purchasing a preowned) has not been in any major accidents that necessitated extensive repairs. Also, certain brands are known to stand the test of time better than others. Research makes and models through Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book to determine which vehicles boast such a reputation. These are just some of the variables to consider when helping young drivers choose their first vehicle. 9
condition. Before moving a passenger who is injured, speak with an emergency response professional. This person can assess the situation and determine if it’s safe to move an injured passenger or if it’s best to wait for first responders to arrive on the scene.
• Get to a safe place. If possible, move to the side of the road or a sidewalk. If it’s safe to move a vehicle and
the vehicle is in a hazardous position, such as in the middle of the road, pull it to the side of the road. If the vehicle won’t start of you suspect it could be dangerous to move it, leave the car where it is and get yourself and any passengers who can move to the side of the road or a sidewalk.
• Call 911. If you have not already done so, call 911 once you have gotten to a
safe place. The III notes that no accident is too minor to involve the police, and some local laws even mandate that all traffic accidents be immediately reported. Be sure to fill out an accident report, which can be vital for drivers who intend to file claims with their insurance providers.
that they are not injured. The III recommends exchanging full names and contact information. Specific information like insurance companies and policy numbers, driver’s license numbers and license plate numbers, the exact location of the accident, and the type, color and model of the other driver’s vehicle also should be exchanged and noted.
The III recommends motorists involved in accidents identify the responding police officers and ask them how to obtain copies of the official accident report. Take pictures and speak with any witnesses, jotting down their names and contact information if possible.
• Turn the vehicle off. If the vehicle is still running, turn it off. Turn on the vehicle’s hazard lights and, if you can physically do so and it’s safe to do so, place road flares around the car to warn fellow motorists.
• Exchange information. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver once everyone has determined
• Avoid discussing fault with the other driver. Drivers will not determine who’s at fault. Such decisions are made by insurance adjusters. Discussing fault with the other driver in the immediate aftermath of an accident can lead to difficult, potentially heated exchanges.
• Document the accident.
• Notify your insurance provider. Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible. You can even do so from the scene of the accident if you’re capable of doing so. This can jumpstart the claims process. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath of a car accident can calm drivers’ nerves and get them on the road to recovery that much sooner.
