Car Care Spring 2015

ThE mineR

Car Care

May 20, 2015 |

Cool car care for summer Whether you’re hitting the open road for a leisurely cruise or simply spending more time in your car keeping up with a fast-paced summer, you want your vehicle at its best when it comes to safety, style and comfort.

The change of seasons is a great time to give your car some special attention to ensure you can confidently roll right through summer.

Start by running through a checklist to ensure your car’s safety features are in good working order. Test headlights, taillights and turn signals, and check fluid levels, topping off or replacing as needed. Also be sure tires are properly inflated, and inspect seat belts for any imperfections that may hinder performance.

If you’re going to arrive safely, why not go in style, too? Keeping your car sparkling clean not only protects finishes inside and out, it’s the easiest way to make your ride look great.

Let your personality show with subtle touches like seat covers or license plate wraps bearing your favorite sports team or college.

And don’t forget comfort.

Have visors ready to block harsh sun rays, and be sure your air conditioner is ready to deliver a refreshing blast of cool air. Add an air freshener with a subtle summery scent, and don’t forget to throw a light blanket in the trunk so you’re ready when

1b

AAA predicts Memorial Day travel will be highest since 2005 37.2 Million Americans to Kick Off Summer with a Memorial Day Getaway BELLEVUE, Wash. - AAA Travel projects 37.2 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more from home during the Memorial Day holiday weekend, a 4.7 percent increase from the 35.5 million people who traveled last year and the highest travel volume for the holiday in 10 years. Kicking off the summer driving season, 33 million travelers will be driving to their destinations. The Memorial Day holiday travel period is defined as Thursday, May 21 to Monday, May 25.

See memorial day, 5B

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Summer is a good time for traveling and taking a little time to prepare your vehicle is worth the effort.

a cool evening breeze kicks up.

Make the most of your summer on the move with these ideas that make caring for your car a cinch.

Freshen up your ride Allergens are everywhere.

In fact, the air in your car could be up to six times dirtier than the air outside.

If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your car’s cabin air filter, pick up a FRAM Fresh Breeze cabin air filter and do some quick and easy DIY — in as little as 15 minutes — to protect your family from breathing

dirt, dust and allergens. Visit FRAMFreshBreeze.com for simple instructions and to find the right cabin air filter for your family’s vehicle.

Style that shines Now you can achieve the million dollar look of Barrett-Jackson auctions at home. Barrett-Jackson’s new Premium Auto Care line includes washes, waxes and detailers formulated with synthetic hydrophobic polymers for easy application and genuine Carnauba wax.

Learn how you can achieve this long-lasting finish and brilliant deep wet look

shine at www.barrett-jacksonautocare.com. BarrettJackson Premium Auto Care products are available at fine retailers nationwide, including Pep Boys, Walmart, Menards and select Home Depots, and through online retailers including Amazon.

Road trip ready A road trip is a fun way to enjoy a summer getaway, while providing ultimate flexibility to keep your own schedule and pace. Protect your vehicle and your own safety by following these

Trustt U Us Wit With

Your Auto Care • ALL AUTOMOTIVE REPAIRS • BRAKES/ ALIGNMENTS • TRANSMISSIONS • COMPUTER DIAGNOSTICS • TUNE-UPS/ EXHAUST

See cool, 5B

(509) 684-3581 We Employ Technicians Certified By The National Institute For Automotive Service Excellence

Mon-Fri: 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. • 505 S. Main • Colville

Do you have any household

HAZARDOUS WASTE? Motor

“Like it never happened”

Oil

Oil based Paints

Don’t Pollute!

Bring Auto Batteries and 5 Gal. max/Day: • Motor Oil • Antifreeze • Oil Based Paints • Stains Solvents, Thinners and Other Hazardous Products from your Home to the County Transfer Stations.

No business or farm waste.

Latex Paint Questions Call 509-671-6147-or 509-447-4513

Open 8 am to 4 pm

It’s FREE!!

Lifetime Guarantee Loaner Cars All Insurance Accepted Free Estimates Newport, WA • 509-447-4225 www.rogersbodyandframe.com

Pend Oreille County Solid Waste www.pendoreilleco.org

2b

| May 20, 2015

ThE mineR

Detail your car like a pro As warmer weather approaches, car lovers are eager to raise the garage doors and get behind the wheel to experience the thrill of the open road. Keeping your car in top condition lets you enjoy those moments to the fullest.

“Choosing the right products for detailing and restoration can really make a difference when preserving your vehicle,” said Craig Jackson, Barrett-Jackson chairman and chief executive officer. “When you’re giving your car a full detail or even just a quick touchup, you want to feel confident that your vehicle is protected and looks its best.

Now you can bring the million dollar look of BarrettJackson home.”

Whether it’s an older model you’ve lovingly restored or a more contemporary vehicle you want to keep looking like a million dollars, these tips will help maintain the appearance (and value) of your vehicle so you’re ready to roll in style.

Exterior A thorough cleaning will help shed accumulated dirt and sediment from a harsh winter, especially for a vehicle that is driven year round. Give special attention to the undercarriage, where potentially destructive materials such as salt can become trapped and corrosive. Even if your car is garaged for the winter, a wash is a good starting place to rinse away dust and start the season fresh.

Tires send a strong mes-

Auto warranties and routine maintenance If you own a car, you know how important it is to keep up with routine maintenance and repairs. But can a dealer refuse to honor the warranty that came with your new car if someone else does the routine maintenance or repairs?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, says no. In fact, it’s illegal for a dealer to deny your warranty coverage simply because you had routine maintenance or repairs performed by someone else. Routine maintenance often includes oil changes, tire rotations, belt replacement, fluid checks and flushes, new brake pads, and inspections. Maintenance schedules vary by vehicle make, model and year; the best source of information about routine scheduled maintenance is your owner’s manual.

What is a warranty?

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

A thorough cleaning will help shed accumulated dirt and sediment from a harsh winter, especially for a vehicle that is driven year round.

sage about your vehicle.

Brake dust, grime and dirt can give your car a dull and aged appearance, so take time to scrub not only the tires themselves, but also the wheels and surrounding carriage. Add shine with a water-based spray formula that contains silicone emulsions to penetrate the rubber.

Finish with a wax that gives an extra element of shine while protecting the finish in between washes.

Barrett-Jackson’s Rapid Detailer and Liquid Wax Kit, which includes Liquid Wax, applicator pad and microfiber towel, provides a deep, wet shine with no residue and long-lasting durability. Formulated with hydrophobic polymers and genuine carnauba wax,

it works on all exterior surfaces including plastic, rubber and trim.

In addition to using quality detailing products, it’s also important to make sure you have the right car care accessories as well.

Use a sponge or cleaning mitten that’s made for washing cars instead of an old rag. When applying wax, its best to use an applicator pad, or even better, buy a wax kit that includes one. Using a microfiber towel is great for buffing off wax or polishing interior and will not leave the lint typical of a cotton towel.

Interior Even if you’re meticulous about your car’s interior, odds and ends still find

their way into crevices and under seats. Take a few moments to clear debris and then vacuum all over to remove any smaller particles.

An important aspect of keeping the interior looking new and healthy is replacing the moisture depleted by the sun’s harsh glare. One good option is a premium three-in-one product such as BarrettJackson Leather Cleaner & Conditioner, which contains glycerin moisturizers to clean, moisturize and protect leather. It can be used on leather and trim, and provides UV protection to help prevent fading, cracking and discoloration.

For more information on premium auto care products, visit www.barrettjacksonautocare.com.

Is your car environmentally friendly?

You may take steps to reduce your environmental impact through the products you purchase and simple household actions, such as recycling – but what about the car you drive?

“Basic vehicle maintenance, as well as a few helpful driving tricks, can go a long way toward protecting the en-

vironment, extending vehicle life and improving fuel economy,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

The experts with the Car Care Council suggest these easy ways to turn your car into a mean, green driving machine – for your wallet and the

environment.

Hang onto your current vehicle and limit the number of new cars you buy over the course of a lifetime. Extending vehicle life is as simple as taking care of your vehicle properly. You’ll gain See friendly, 4B

A warranty is a promise, often made by a manufacturer, to stand behind its product or to fix certain defects or malfunctions over a period of time. The warranty pays for any covered repairs or part replacements during the warranty period.

Do I have to use the dealer for repairs and maintenance to keep my warranty in effect?

No. An independent mechanic, a retail chain shop, or even you yourself can do routine maintenance and repairs on your vehicle. In fact, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which is enforced by the FTC, makes it illegal for manufacturers or dealers to claim that your warranty is void or to deny coverage under your warranty simply because someone other than the dealer did the work.

The manufacturer or dealer can, however, require consumers to use select repair facilities if the repair services are provided to consumers free of charge under the warranty. In addition, the manufacturer or dealer can ask the FTC to waive the rule prohibiting them from voiding consumers’ warranties for using other service facilities. The FTC may grant a waiver if the company shows that the product will function properly only if its service facilities are used, and the See warranty, 5B

Get Your Car Ready For SummerTravel Now! • Brakes • Shocks • Struts • Alignments • Free Pre-trip Safety Check (208) 448-2311

Washington Customers Call Toll Free!

1-800-440-8254 Albeni Hwy., Priest River, Idaho

SPOKANE / NEWPORT SPECIAL MOBILITY SERVICES A.M.

Monday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday

ARRIVE 6:30 AM 8:15 AM 10:15 AM

DEPART

Specializing in Diesel & Gas Engines Repair • Maintenance • Performance

Spokane: Bank of America Howard & Riverside 6:35 AM Newport: Safeway 8:30 AM Spokane Bank of America Howard & Riverside

P.M. ARRIVE

DEPART

2:00 PM

Spokane: Bank of America Howard & Riverside 2:35 PM

4:15 PM

Newport: Safeway

5:45 PM

Spokane: Bank of America

4:30 PM

In the City of Spokane, we pick up or drop off at the Bank of America on Riverside and Howard. Upon request, we can also pick up at the following locations: Spokane International Airport, any of the major Hospitals including VA hospital, NorthTown Mall, Northpoint Wal-Mart, 29th and Regal, Fancher and Sprague or Trent and Fancher.

If you have a disability that prevents you from reaching one of our stops, please call our office to see if we can arrange a pickup at your home.

One-way fares $3.00 Newport/Spokane Reserve seating has priority. Open seating is available without reservations as capacity allows.

To reserve a seat, please call 24-hours in advance or during office hours: 8:30am to 5:00pm

1-877-264-RIDE (7433) • 509-534-7171 Service is open to the general public. Service is available to all regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin or disability. This service meets the requirements of the American’s With Disabilities Act. This service is funded through grants from Washington DOT.

Service you can trust!

4608 Wallbridge Rd., Clayton, WA 509-262-0800 www.DeerParkDiesel.com

Attention Journeyman Mechanics!

This is a GREAT place to work. Call us.

ThE mineR

May 20, 2015 |

3b

How health affects driving Health matters more than age

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Working with certified auto technicians is one way to ensure you get professional service when you take your car in for repair. Written cost estimates should be given before any work is performed.

Tips for selecting a reliable auto repair shop Work, school, errands and the other demands of family life put your vehicle at the center of it all, so when something goes wrong, you may find yourself overwhelmed.

Finding a repair shop you can rely on can ease your frustration and get you back on the road.

“For most people, a vehicle is their second biggest investment next to a home,” said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. “It makes sense to take the time to select an auto repair facility that will take the best care of that investment.”

Asking a few simple questions can help you identify an auto repair shop to properly care for one of your most valuable assets.

The Car Care Council recommends exploring these topics before choosing where to have your car repaired: Does the business employ certified technicians? Credentials and affiliations are indicators of professionalism and the management’s commitment to training and education.

Is the shop and customer waiting area clean and organized? Cleanliness and organization are signs of a well-run business.

Are customers greeted and treated in a

friendly and respectful manner? A simple phone call to the shop to inquire about their services can give you a glimpse into how they treat customers.

Does the business provide a written estimate? The business should complete a written estimate and request your signature prior to starting any repairs on your car.

What type of warranty does the shop offer? Most auto repair businesses offer a warranty on parts and labor, and the warranty is usually in writing or posted in the waiting area.

Does the business have a list of satisfied customers or references that it is willing to give you? Satisfied customers and recommendations from family, friends and neighbors are helpful in finding a good shop.

Is there a website you can visit? Many auto repair facilities have company websites that are worth checking out as they often include testimonials and additional information about the business.

For a video with more advice for selecting your auto repair shop, as well as information on the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair, visit www.carcare. org.

Heading off problems The more you know about your vehicle, the more likely you’ll be able to head off repair problems. You can detect many common vehicle problems by using your senses: eyeballing the area around your vehicle, listening for strange noises, sensing a difference in the way your vehicle handles, or even noticing unusual odors.

Looks Like Trouble Small stains or an occasional drop of fluid under your vehicle may not mean much. But wet spots deserve attention; check puddles immediately.

You can identify fluids by their color and consistency: Yellowish green, pastel blue or florescent orange colors indicate an overheated engine or an antifreeze leak caused by a bad hose, water pump or leaking radiator.

A dark brown or black oily fluid means the engine is leaking oil. A bad seal or gasket could cause the leak.

A red oily spot indicates

a transmission or powersteering fluid leak.

A puddle of clear water usually is no problem. It may be normal condensation from your vehicle’s air conditioner.

Smells Like Trouble Some problems are under your nose. You can detect them by their odor: The smell of burned toast — a light, sharp odor — often signals an electrical short and burning insulation. To be safe, try not to drive the vehicle until the problem is diagnosed.

The smell of rotten eggs — a continuous burningsulphur smell — usually indicates a problem in the catalytic converter or other emission control devices.

Don’t delay diagnosis and repair.

A thick acrid odor usually means burning oil. Look for sign of a leak.

The smell of gasoline vapors after a failed start may mean you have flooded the engine. Wait a few minutes

“Repair First, Replace When Necessary”

Our Mobile Unit Will Come to You in Pend Oreille County

Parker & Sons

1-800-545-2173 Quality Service Since 1980

before trying again. If the odor persists, chances are there’s a leak in the fuel system — a potentially dangerous problem that needs immediate attention.

Burning resin or an acrid chemical odor may signal overheated brakes or clutch.

Check the parking brake.

Stop. Allow the brakes to cool after repeated hard braking on mountain roads.

Light smoke coming from a wheel indicates a stuck brake. The vehicle should be towed for repair.

A sweet, steamy odor indicates a coolant leak.

If the temperature gauge or warning light does not indicate overheating, drive carefully to the nearest service station, keeping an eye on your gauges. If the odor is accompanied by a hot, metallic scent and steam from under the hood, your engine has overheated. Pull See PROBLEMS, 4B

It’s your health — not your age — that matters most in driving safely. As you get older, you may notice physical changes or changes in other abilities.

For example, you may have difficulty seeing at night or may not react as quickly to sudden changes. These changes can affect your driving, especially in challenging situations like merging or changing lanes.

Age-related changes that may affect driving include changes in vision, hearing, attention and reaction time, and strength, flexibility, and coordination. Medications and certain health conditions can also affect people in ways that make driving dangerous.

Age-related changes vary widely from one person to the next. That’s why some people can continue driving much longer than others.

Vision changes Eyesight often worsens with age. Older eyes need more light and more time to adjust when light changes, so it can be hard to see clearly, especially at dawn, dusk, and night.

Eyes become more sensitive to glare from headlights, street lights, or the sun, making it difficult to see people, things, and movements outside your direct line of sight.

Peripheral vision — the ability to see to the side while looking ahead — often declines as people age, increasing the risk of crashes. In addition, field of vision — how much you can see all at once — narrows, making it harder to spot an object in a cluttered view.

Eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration become more common as people get older. It may be harder to read signs and see colors.

Hearing changes Age-related hearing loss can make it harder to notice horns, sirens, and noises from your car.

That can be a problem because these sounds warn you of possible danger.

Changes in Attention and Reaction Time To drive safely, people must be able to pay attention to many things at once and react to sudden changes. They need to make decisions — sometimes very quickly — and act in time to avoid accidents and stay safe.

As people get older, they process information and react more slowly. Their attention span may be shorter. It also becomes more difficult to do two things at the same time.

As a result, older adults may feel overwhelmed by all of the signs, signals, pedestrians, and vehicles at intersections. Older adults may also have trouble judging gaps in traffic.

This can make it more difficult to turn left at intersections or to merge

A P A N W KNO HOW 3 Locations to Serve You 300 S. Union Ave., Newport WA • 509-447-4515 5398 Hwy 2, Priest River ID • 208-448-1412 514 Larch, Sandpoint ID • 208-263-2171

with traffic when turning right.

Physical Changes As people age, their joints may get stiff, and their muscles may weaken.

Maybe they have trouble walking or feel pain in their knees, legs, or ankles. All of

these symptoms can make it harder to drive safely.

A person may not be able to turn his or her head to look back, turn the steering wheel quickly, or brake safely.

See HEALTH, 4B

LIGHTNING LUBE (208) 263-9696

214 Pine Street • Sandpoint, ID

I V L L L O E C Since 1966

GLASS

• Home • Business • Auto Glass • Mobile Service • Rock Chip Repair

111 S. Oak St. Colville 509-684-6501 888-254-9973 INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1983

• Auto • Home • Commercial

• Motorcycle • Work Comp • ATV • Boat • Personal Watercraft • Life & Health

Please call us for help with all your insurance needs.

208-263-1426 • 1-800-574-5159

1009 Hwy 2 West Suite D, Sandpoint, ID sharone@isu-haddock.com

Kettle Falls Auto Licensing

Purchase all Washington Vehicle & Vessel Licenses here.

• Vehicles • Boats • RV’s • Offroad

943 Lakeview Dr., Kettle Falls

Tuesday - Friday 10:00 to 5:30 • Saturday 8:30 to Noon

ALBENI MACHINE SHOP • Designing • Fabricating • Welding

• Lathe - Mill • Portable Welding • 60 Ton Press • Plasma Cutter • Steel - Cold Roll • Shafting • Angles & Bars

(208) 437-3380

Fax: 437-3380 Across from Albeni Falls Dam Viewpoint on Newport-Priest River Hwy.

Gopher’s Diesel Repair Serving the Tri-County for Over 10 Years 97-A Buena Vista Dr • Colville • 509-684-6637

Planning is your best protection against the unexpected.

Call for a quote today.

Bruce A. Hunt, Agent Auto • Home • Boat Recreational Vehicles • Life • Commercial 309 South Washington Ave. • Newport bhunt@farmersagent.com

509-447-3428

4b

| May 20, 2015

ThE mineR

PROBLEMS: Your vehicle will let you know when there’s a problem From Page 3B

over immediately. Continued driving could cause severe engine damage. The vehicle should be towed for repair.

Sounds Like Trouble Squeaks, squeals, rattles, rumbles, and other sounds provide valuable clues about problems and maintenance needs. Here are some common noises and what they mean: Squeal — A shrill, sharp noise, usually related to engine speed: Loose or worn power steering, fan or air conditioning belt.

Click — A slight sharp noise, related to either engine speed or vehicle speed: Loose wheel cover.

Loose or bent fan blade.

Stuck valve lifter or low engine oil.

Screech — A high-pitched, piercing metallic sound; usually occurs while the vehicle is in motion: Caused by brake wear indicators to let you know it’s time for maintenance.

Rumble — a low-pitched rhythmic sound.

Defective exhaust pipe,

converter or muffler.

Worn universal joint or other drive-line component.

Ping — A high-pitched metallic tapping sound, related to engine speed: Usually caused by using gas with a lower octane rating than recommended. Check your owner’s manual for the proper octane rating. If the problem persists, engine ignition timing could be at fault.

Heavy Knock — A rhythmic pounding sound: Worn crankshaft or connecting rod bearings.

Loose transmission torque converter.

Clunk — A random thumping sound: Loose shock absorber or other suspension component.

Loose exhaust pipe or muffler.

Feels Like Trouble Difficult handling, a rough ride, vibration and poor performance are symptoms you can feel. They almost always indicate a problem.

Steering Misaligned front wheels and/or worn steering components, like the idler or ball

joint, can cause wandering or difficulty steering in a straight line.

Pulling — the vehicle’s tendency to steer to the left or right — can be caused by something as routine as under-inflated tires, or as serious as a damaged or misaligned front end.

Ride and Handling Worn shock absorbers or other suspension components — or improper tire inflation — can contribute to poor cornering.

While there is no hard and fast rule about when to replace shock absorbers or struts, try this test: bounce the vehicle up and down hard at each wheel and then let go. See how many times the vehicle bounces. Weak shocks will allow the vehicle to bounce twice or more.

Springs do not normally wear out and do not need replacement unless one corner of the vehicle is lower than the others. Overloading your vehicle can damage the springs.

Balance tires properly. An unbalanced or improperly balanced tire causes a vehicle to vibrate and may wear steering and suspension com-

ponents prematurely.

Brakes Brake problems have several symptoms. Schedule diagnosis and repair if: The vehicle pulls to one side when the brakes are applied.

The brake pedal sinks to the floor when pressure is maintained.

You hear or feel scraping or grinding during braking.

The “brake” light on the instrument panel is lit.

Engine The following symptoms indicate engine trouble. Get a diagnosis and schedule the repair.

Difficulty starting the engine.

The “check engine” light on the instrument panel is lit.

Rough idling or stalling.

Poor acceleration.

Poor fuel economy.

Excessive oil use (more than one quart between changes).

Engine continues running after the key is removed.

Transmission Poor transmission performance may come from actual

component failure or a simple disconnected hose or plugged filter. Make sure the technician checks the simple items first; transmission repairs normally are expensive.

Some of the most common symptoms of transmission problems are: Abrupt or hard shifts between gears.

Delayed or no response when shifting from neutral to drive or reverse.

Failure to shift during normal acceleration.

Slippage during acceleration. The engine speeds up, but the vehicle does not respond.

Trouble Shooting Car trouble doesn’t always mean major repairs. Here are some common causes of trouble and techniques to help you and your technician find and fix problems: Alternator — Loose wiring can make your alternator appear defective. Your technician should check for loose connections and perform an output test before replacing the alternator.

Battery — Corroded or loose battery terminals can make the battery appear dead

FRIENDLY: Follow service schedule for your vehicle

health: Some may not realize they aren’t safe drivers anymore

From Page 2B

From Page 3B

Medications Older adults generally take more medicines than when they were younger. Both prescription and over-the-counter medicines can affect the ability to drive safely by making you feel tired, dizzy, or nauseated. For example, certain cold remedies can cause drowsiness. Medications that treat depression, anxiety, stress, sleeping problems, heart disease, and muscle spasms can also cause problems. Not taking required medicines can cause problems as well. Studies have shown that using certain medications or many medications increases the chances of being in a crash.

Health Conditions

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

One of the best things you can do to make your car easier on the environment is not to buy too many of them in your lifetime.

years of reliable service without monthly car payments and higher insurance rates.

Follow a vehicle service schedule including fuel-saving steps like keeping tires properly inflated, replacing air filters regularly and using the correct motor oil. Routine maintenance helps reduce emissions and fuel consumption, saving money at the pump.

Recycle or properly dispose motor oil, tires, batteries, fluids and other vehicle components to help protect the planet when performing vehicle maintenance or repairs.

Drive green and recognize that how you drive has a lot to do with fuel economy. Avoid sudden starts and stops and go the speed limit. Jerky and aggressive driving decreases your miles per gallon (MPG) and increases wear and tear on your vehicle. Minimize unnecessary miles by combining errands in one trip.

Perform needed maintenance, providing general maintenance and having clean air filters will help your car pollute less and burn less gas. With a proper tune-up, you can save four percent on the cost of gas and up to 40 percent by replacing a faulty oxygen sensor. Simply changing the car’s air filter can improve vehicle performance.

Lighten the load by getting the junk out of the trunk and the excessive things out of your car. Extra items weigh the vehicle down and cause an increase in gas usage. Of course, emergency items such as a spare tire, flashlight and a firstaid kit should always have a place inside your car.

Check your vehicle’s gas cap and avoid unnecessary fillups. Loose, damaged or missing gas caps cause millions of gallons of gas to evaporate into the air every year. Topping off your gas tank when filling up your car can also release harmful vapors into the environment.

The Car Care Council’s free customized service schedule makes it easy to be green, drive smart and save money. For more information about this schedule, tips on environmental awareness, as well as the popular digital Car Care Guide, visit www.carcare.org.

Some health problems seen in older people can interfere with driving. It is often possible to keep driving in the early stages of a disease. But, as the disease gets worse, a person may decide that it is no longer safe to drive.

Any health condition that affects the arms, legs, neck, or back can affect someone’s fitness to drive. Serious impairments are associated with a higher risk of crashes.

Several age-related diseases and conditions can affect the ability to drive. Here are some of the most common ones.

Parkinson’s disease can cause a person’s arms, hands, or legs to shake and affect balance and movement. A driver may not be able to react quickly to danger, turn the steering wheel, or push the brake pedal.

Macular degeneration can distort a person’s central vision and lead to the loss of sharp vision. That makes it hard to see road signs, traffic, and pedestrians.

Diabetes can make a person’s blood sugar levels too high or too low. That can make him or her feel sleepy, dizzy, or confused. It can also cause a loss of conscious-

ness or a seizure. People with diabetesrelated complications should consult their healthcare team for guidance on driving.

Watch “Driving with Diabetes” to see how the side effects of diabetes can complicate driving.

Stroke can affect the ability to speak, think clearly, or control one’s body. It can cause weakness or paralysis on one side of the body. As a result, a driver may have trouble using the car’s controls, drift across lanes, or be confused by traffic.

Watch “Driving after a Stroke” to learn how driving can be affected in the aftermath of a stroke.

Arthritis can make a person’s joints swollen and stiff, limiting movement of the shoulders, hands, head, or neck. This can make it hard to grasp or turn the steering wheel, apply the brake and gas pedals, put on a seatbelt, or get in and out of a car. Watch “Driving with Severe Arthritis” to learn how limited movement from severe arthritis affects driving.

People with Alzheimer’s disease or other kinds of dementia may not realize they are no longer safe drivers. They might get lost while driving, even in familiar places, and need lots of help with directions. It’s important to tell a family member or friend if you become confused when driving. People with severe dementia should not drive. Having a passenger guide someone with dementia through the driving task is not safe, either. Watch “Driving with Alzheimer’s Disease” to learn how memory problems caused by Alzheimer’s disease can make driving unsafe.

Having a particular health condition does not necessarily mean the end of driving. But you should pay attention to how well you drive. If you or someone you know is concerned about your driving, talk to your doctor and consider getting a driving evaluation. For more information about driving and specific health conditions, visit www.nhtsa.gov/ Senior-Drivers.

SEEK CLARITY Auto Glass Repair & Replacement

Priest River Glass

(208) 448-2511 • 800-858-5013

or defective. Your technician should clean the terminals and test battery function before replacing the battery.

Starter — What appears to be a defective starter actually may be a dead battery or poor connection. Ask your technician to check all connections and test the battery before repairing the starter.

Muffler — a loud rumbling noise under your vehicle indicates a need for a new muffler or exhaust pipe.

Tune-up — The oldfashioned “tune-up” may not be relevant to your vehicle.

Fewer parts, other than belts, spark plugs, hoses and filters, need to be replaced on newer vehicles. Follow the recommendations in your owner’s manual.

Summer driving is on the way. . . Let Steve get you ready!

Steve’s Import Auto Service, Inc. Maintenance & Repair

Imports & Domestic Vehicles VW, Audi, Toyota, Honda & Nissan 1111 Michigan Street • Sandpoint, ID

208 -263-4911

Riverside Automotive Service and Repair

Foreign & Domestic Repair • Tune-ups • Diagnostic Service • Brakes • Clutches • Electrical • Engine •Air Conditioning 34612 N. Newport Hwy 2 Chattaroy, WA C

((509) 292-8979

CAREY’S INC AUTO BODY

Hi-Tech Collision Repair We work with your insurance company to repair your vehicle to “before-accident” condition

• Computer Estimates • Color Matched Electronically On-Site • Semi-Down Draft Bake Spray Booth • Six Tower Frame Rack • Unibody Universal Measuring System with Upper Body Measuring • The Area’s Finest Technicians • Built by Satisfied Customers

509-684-2587 Fax: 509-684-3549

1101 S. Main. St., Colville

ThE mineR

May 20, 2015 |

WARRANTY: Speak with supervisor if not satisfied waiver is in the public interest.

That said, there may be certain situations where a repair may not be covered.

For example, if you or your mechanic replaced a belt improperly and your engine is damaged as a result, your manufacturer or dealer may deny responsibility for fixing the engine under the warranty. However, according to the FTC, the manufacturer or dealer must be able to demonstrate that it was the improper belt replacement — rather than some other defect — that caused the damage to your engine.

The warranty would still be in effect for other parts of your car.

Will using ‘aftermarket’ or recycled parts void my warranty?

No. An ‘aftermarket’ part is a part made by a company other than the vehicle manufacturer or the original equipment manufacturer. A ‘recycled’ part is a part that was made for and installed in a new vehicle by the manufacturer or the original equipment manufacturer, and later removed from the vehicle and made available

for resale or reuse.

Simply using an aftermarket or recycled part does not void your warranty. The Magnuson-Moss

The FTC may grant a waiver if the company shows that the product will function properly only if its parts or service are used, and the waiver is in the public interest.

Warranty Act makes it illegal for companies to void your warranty or deny coverage under the warranty simply because you used an aftermarket or recycled part.

The manufacturer or dealer can, however, require consumers to use select parts if those parts are provided to consumers free of charge under the warranty. In addition, the manufacturer or dealer can ask the FTC to waive the rule prohibiting them from

voiding consumers’ warranties for using aftermarket or recycled parts.

The FTC may grant a waiver if the company shows that the product will function properly only if its parts or service are used, and the waiver is in the public interest.

Still, if it turns out that the aftermarket or recycled part was itself defective or wasn’t installed correctly, and it causes damage to another part that is covered under the warranty, the manufacturer or dealer has the right to deny coverage for that part and charge you for any repairs. The FTC says the manufacturer or dealer must show that the aftermarket or recycled part caused the need for repairs before denying warranty coverage.

Tips To Avoid Warranty Issues Here’s how to get the most out of your vehicle’s warranty: Read your warranty. Often bundled with your owner’s manual, the warranty gives a general description and specific details about your coverage. If you have misplaced your owner’s manual, look for it online. Check the “Owners” section of your

manufacturer’s website.

Be aware of your warranty period. If problems arise that are covered under the warranty, get them checked out before the warranty expires.

Service your car at regular intervals. This is a good idea in any case. But for the sake of keeping your warranty intact, follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Details are in your owner’s manual.

Keep all service records and receipts, regardless of who performs the service. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, belt replacement, new brake pads, and inspections.

Create a file to keep track of repairs; it will come in handy if you have to use your warranty. If you ever have a warranty claim and it appears that you did not maintain your vehicle, your claim could be denied.

Complain. If you think a dealer’s service advisor denied your warranty claim unfairly, ask to speak with a supervisor. If you still aren’t satisfied, contact the manufacturer or go to another dealer. You also may wish to file a complaint with your state Attorney General, local consumer protection office, or the FTC.

COOL: Make sure battery connection is clean, tight From Page 1

recommendations from the Car Care Council and complete a thorough pretrip checklist before hitting the road: Check the brake system, and make sure the battery connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.

Check filters and fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and coolant. Dirty air filters can waste gas and cause the engine to lose power.

Check hoses and belts

that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.

Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread.

Underinflated tires reduce a vehicle’s fuel economy and uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

Check that the gas cap is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from

spilling or evaporating.

Easy ways to accessorize your ride Simple accessories can add fun and function to your daily commute or a summertime trek across the state. Keep these auto additions in mind and you’ll be stocked up for wherever the road takes you.

Seat covers. A day at the sandy beach or a messy camping trip is no match for a seat cover. Available in a variety of colors to suit individual styles and preferences, seat covers not only

protect your upholstery from harsh pool chemicals or gritty sand, they also shield your skin from hot, sun-soaked materials.

Floor mats. Make cleanup simple with quality floor mats. Especially helpful for families, they help reduce floor messes with a simple shake or a quick vacuum.

Trash can. Trips big or small can bring about plenty of trash. Have a handy place to stash it with a convenient receptacle. Options include units that fit within cup holders, tie around the head rest and even clip to the interior door.

MEMORIAL DAY: 88 percent will travel by auto From Page 1

Highlights from 2015 Memorial Day Travel Forecast: The 2015 Memorial Day forecast is expected to mark the highest travel volume for the holiday since 2005.

Most drivers will likely pay the lowest Memorial Day gas prices in at least five years. Today’s national average price of gas is $2.66 (one dollar lower than a year ago) the Washington state average is $2.99 per gallon (90 cents lower than Memorial Day last year).

The 4.7 percent increase over Memorial Day 2014 is the highest forecast growth rate for any of the holidays tracked

by AAA since Independence Day 2012.

More than 88 percent of travelers (33 million) will travel by automobile, an increase of 5.3 percent compared to last Memorial Day. Holiday air travel is expected to increase 2.5 percent to 2.6 million leisure travelers.

Travel by other modes of transportation including cruises, trains and buses, is expected to decrease 3.6 percent this Memorial Day, to 1.64 million.

Travelers will encounter higher average daily car rental and lodging costs this year, while airfares are down slightly compared to Memorial Day 2014.

“Following a harsh winter in some areas, many Americans are trading in their snow boots for flip flops and making plans to start the season with a vacation getaway,” said Marshall L. Doney, AAA President and Chief Operating Officer. “AAA is expecting more Memorial Day travelers this year than any time in the past 10 years as confident consumers come out of hibernation ready to explore national parks, beach destinations and America’s great cities.”

A number of economic factors are contributing to the large increase in holiday travelers this year. “A strong employment market and low gas prices have driven consumer optimism to new highs and boosted Americans’ disposable income. This is welcome news for the travel industry,” continued Doney.

Impact of gasoline prices: AAA predicts most U.S. travelers will pay the cheapest Memorial Day gas prices in at least five years. Today, the average price of gas is $2.99 per gallon in Washington, 90 cents less than last year when the price was $3.89 on Memorial Day and the lowest price for this holiday since 2010 when the holiday price was $2.99 per gallon. (For more information about gas prices, got to fuelgaugereport.com.)

Tips for drivers: More than 88 percent (33 million) of holiday travelers will drive to their destination, a 5.3 percent increase from 2014.

AAA expects to rescue nearly 350,000 motorists at the roadside this Memorial Day weekend, with the primary reasons being dead batteries, flat tires and lockouts. AAA recommends motorists inspect their vehicle and check battery and tire condition before heading out on a holiday getaway.

Members can download the AAA mobile app (AAA.com/ mobile), visit AAA.com or call 1-800-AAA-HELP to request roadside assistance in the event of a breakdown.

Hotel and car rental rates increase, airfares fall slightly According to AAA’s Leisure Travel Index, the average daily car rental rate this Memorial Day is $19 higher than last year. The average nightly stay in a Two Diamond hotel is 16 percent higher this year at $144, while Three Diamond hotels will cost seven percent more, averaging $182. Average airfares for the top 40 domestic flight routes are two percent cheaper this year, falling to $222.

• Auto • Boats • Furniture

Quality Craftsmanship for over 25 years 402 W. 7th, Newport 509-447-5433 509-671-2554

Emerald Automotive

• AND MACHINE SHOP • “We Stand in Front of our Brake Jobs” Tune-ups Engine Rebuilding Computer Diagnostics Diesel Repair

900 Bonner Mall Way

208-263-3483

Spring Clean Up for Your Car! Gerald’s Garage II Your Hometown Automotive Repair and Maintenance Shopp

Josh Hiebert Owner 2215 Highway 2 Oldtown, ID (208) 437-3304

facebook.com/geraldsgarageII geII geraldsgarage2@gmail.com

31 W. Walnut 311 Newport, N WA (509) 447-3933

Locally y Owned & Operated

A/Cice Serv For Nowmmer Su

CHECK COOLANT FOR HOT WEATHER

Get ready for Summer!

Time to let us check your

Oil • Coolant • AC • Alignment • Brakes • Shocks

CCertified Master Tech on duty to serve you!

A Proud Member of Your Local Newport Grizzlies Maws and Paws Booster Club “We support our local students in all their endeavors.”

H & D DIESEL, INC.

Over 25 Years Roadside Service CAT Dealer Experience Licensed • Insured

Hanson’s Powerstroke Repair Specializing in Ford Diesel Computer Diagnostic Repairs

Ray Hanson - Owner Mobile & Shop Service

Wolf says. .

We Offer all these Services

Service for All Makes and Models www.proautomotivepr.com Like us on Facebook

• Brakes • Transmission • Air Conditioning & Differentials • Oil Changes & Inspections • Tune-Ups • Engine Repair • Engine Performance

• Electronics & Diagnostics • Computers & Programming • Steering & Suspension • Exhaust Service

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm • 40 High St. • Priest River, ID • 208-448-0112

28 Years Experience Priest River, Idaho Cell @ 360-770-1180 rahfordtech@gmail.com

POWER STROKE DIESEL

5b

877-447-4699 ROD HILDEN

9381 Coyote Trail Phone (509) 447-4699 Newport, WA