Summer On The Road - July 9th, 2019

July, 2019 •

July 2019 A Special Supplement to

Go Electric

Benefits and savings for communities

Buying Smart

How to recognize and avoid buying a lemon

Classic Cars

Explore the hobby going forward

autos.timescolonist

New

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July, 2019 •

Recognize

and avoid buying a lemon

N

ew or pre-owned vehicles are significant investments. New cars might be more expensive than preowned models, but according to Edmunds, the average cost of a pre-owned vehicle is around $16,000.

Pre-owned vehicles seem and often are consumer-friendly options. However, preowned vehicles always carry some measure of risk. Unless a vehicle is covered by a warranty, consumers take that risk on.

One way for buyers to reduce any anxiety about pre-owned vehicles is to learn as much as they can about automobiles and spotting potential lemons. Despite the availability of vehicle history reports, some lemons still make it onto used car lots. The following are some ways buyers can protect themselves from lemons.

Research vehicles through reputable sources. Investigate the reliability ratings of certain vehicles on reputable sites such as Edmunds.com, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website (NHTSA. gov) and Kelly Blue Book (kbb.com).

Ask the right questions. Once you find a vehicle that interests you, ask pointed questions about its condition and features.

Newer cars with high mileage may raise red flags, so ask after maintenance records and how many owners it had. Consumer Reports says a high-mileage car used on a long highway commute is better than if the car does many short trips or stop-and-go driving.

Also ask if the vehicle has been in an accident or if there are any recalls on the make and model.

Request a vehicle history report. Ask for a copy of the vehicle’s history report. Such reports may include information about major accidents, mileage, number of owners, airbag deployment, and other clues that shed light on its condition. The report also may included warranty information and whether the car or truck was branded a lemon.

Conduct a visual inspection. Look at the vehicle for telltale signs of wear that may indicate you should not buy it. Indicators may include prematurely worn pedals or a sagging driver’s seat. Check for dents, chipped paint, mismatched body panels, body filler, or sloppy repair work. Inconsistent welds around the hood also may indicate

significant repairs in its past.

When looking under the hood, Consumer Reports suggests noting the level of grease and corrosion on the engine, radiator and battery. Check for wet spots that may be indicate of leaks. Melted wires or blackened areas can reveal engine overheating or even a fire.

Rely on a trusted mechanic. Ask a mechanic you trust to give the vehicle a thorough, professional inspection. He or she may be able to spot signs of a lemon more readily than amateurs.

Purchasing a car can induce some anxiety.

Research and patience can calm buyers’ nerves and ensure they find the right vehicle at the right price.

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nyone who has ever wandered from car lot to car lot in search of the perfect vehicle will appreciate that it can be a time consuming and sometimes frustrating experience.

Choices can be limited, and when it comes to price, bargains can be hard to come by.

Enter Jett Wholesale Public Auto Auction.

Located in Parksville, BC, the company offers a different vehicle buying experience. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, boats, transport trucks, etc. come to Jett from a variety of sources, including a host of Vancouver Island dealerships, companies, private consignment sales and even from folks who have donated their vehicle for sale with the goal of donating

the proceeds to charity. JETT Auction is the only public auto auction on Vancouver Island.

There are two ways to bid at the weekly Saturday auction – in person and online.

Bidders can view vehicles at the lot at 861 Allsbrook Rd. in Parksville or online at jettauction.com.

Auctions take place every Saturday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., with gates at the Parksville lot open at 9:30 a.m. for viewing.

Online bidders can take their time prior to the sale to review the array of vehicles and decide which is perfect for them, before logging on to the auction and joining the bidding.

JETT Auction – A great way to buy a vehicle!

July, 2019 •

Address windshield damage promptly

W

indshields are designed to protect drivers and their vehicles from wind and other natural elements while the cars are in motion.

Windshields are made from tempered glass, which is processed by controlled thermal or chemical treatments to increase its strength compared to normal glass.

While relatively strong for a pieces of glass, windshields are not impervious to damage. All it takes is a single rock or piece of road debris to be kicked up from the roadway and hit the windshield to cause a problem.

Every day motorists encounter pebbles or other small missiles that bounce up from the road and come in contact with their windshields. Many deflect with no problem, but under high speeds, debris

can cause chips, dings, and even cracks in the windshield.

Cracks easily spread from road vibration and heat and can compromise the integrity of the windshield. If your car’s windshield is cracked and it shatters during a collision, you and your passengers are at great risk of injury.

In addition, police officers can write tickets if windshields appear to be unsafe. So it’s in drivers’ best interests to repair damaged windshields promptly.

Drivers may be able to repair small dings themselves with a do-it-yourself windshield kit available at automotive retailers. If a crack is less than six to 12 inches long, it can probably be repaired as well. However, more significant damage will require that the entire windshield be replaced.

Windshield replacement or repair is a necessity when windshields chip or crack.

T he Mos t T rus t ed Au t o Repa ir in V ic t ori a BC

S

earle’s Auto Repair started out as a one mechanic shop in 1979. Over the years, Ken Searle’s reputation became known for quality work. As the years went by, his family run business steadily grew from one mechanic to what it is today, employing 8 mechanics. Searle’s Auto Repair is located at 517 Kelvin Rd, has 2 floors and is still known by many for the quality work and honesty they offer their customers.

Searle’s is a NAPA Autopro repair facility that belongs to a network of independent

shop across North America. Being a NAPA Autopro gives them the ability to offer a 2 year, 40,000km Peace of Mind Warranty on all services and repairs performed. They offer complementary roadside assistance that’s good anywhere in North America.

Their digital inspection process keeps you up to date with your vehicle and their dedicated team will maintain and service all makes and models, specializing in air conditioning and classic cars.

“While you’re on the road, Searle’s has your back!”

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July, 2019 •

Safely share the road

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otorists, motorcycle riders, cyclists, and pedestrians converge on roadways across the globe every day. While many travelers respect their fellow road warriors, the potential for highway accidents is great. Taking measures to share the road safely can greatly reduce all travellers’ risk of being involved in a traffic accident.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that, despite historical declines in automobile fatalities, motorcycle deaths have increased nearly every year for the past 14 years. The lone exception was 2009. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than 900 cyclists were killed and there were an estimated 494,000 emergency room visits due to bicycle-related injuries in the United States in 2013.

While not all of these accidents are directly related to unsafe conditions or collisions with motorists, individuals can take various precautionary measures to make roadways safer for all travellers.

Never ride impaired or distracted.

This rule applies to everyone on the road, no matter the mode of travel. Alcohol, drugs and distractions like mobile phones can impair judgement and reduce reaction times.

Do not wear headphones.

Drivers and cyclists should never wear headphones, which can make it hard to hear approaching travellers and any horns, sirens or indicators of unsafe conditions.

Check the curb lane.

Drivers should always check their mirrors and pay special attention to the right of their vehicles so they can determine if any cyclists are approaching. And always be on the lookout for pedestrians, particularly at crosswalks.

Bikers and cyclists must anticipate hazards.

Motorcycles and bicycles can be more difficult to see, especially when positioned

in blind spots of vehicles. Motorcycle riders and cyclists should position themselves in traffic accordingly and try to anticipate what drivers might do if motorcycles and bicycles are in their blind spots.

Improve visibility.

Everyone on the road should make themselves as visible as possible to others.

Pedestrians and cyclists can wear bright colours and use reflective tape. Cars should keep their daytime running lights on and use headlights in inclement weather.

Rain, fog and snow can impair visual conditions for all travellers, so exercise extreme caution when travelling in adverse conditions.

Use safety equipment.

Bicycle helmets, motorcycle helmets and other protective gear can save lives.

Everyone should wear a properly fitted helmet. Motorists and their passengers should always wear their safety belts.

Obey the rules of the road.

Whether on foot, on a bicycle, on a motorcycle, or in a car, the rules of the road remain the same. Heed traffic signals, yield to others when applicable and maintain proper speeds. Also, remember to use turn signals when turning and/or changing lanes.

Be aware of road conditions.

The U.S. NHTSA says that road conditions that are minor annoyances to motorists can pose major hazards to motorcycle riders and cyclists. Riders may change speed or adjust position within a lane suddenly in reaction to road and traffic conditions, such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings, and grooved pavement. Drivers should anticipate such adjustments. Working in concert, everyone can improve safety for those sharing the road.

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July, 2019 •

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Tips for sharing the road with

cyclists and pedestrians T

he country’s roadways are for all to enjoy. Tens of millions of cars take to the highways every day, but they’re not the only mode of transportation allowed on the road. Cyclists and pedestrians also make use of streets when sidewalks or biking paths are unavailable.

Did you know that bicyclists accounted for 2.2 percent of all traffic deaths in the United States in 2016? In addition, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says nearly 15 pedestrians per day lose their lives when struck by motor vehicles, and there were 5,376 pedestrian deaths in 2015.

Although biking and walking are inherently safe activities for millions of people per year, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians can all take steps to make roads safer for everyone.

Follow the rules of the road.

Whether you’re riding a bike or driving a motor vehicle, the rules of the road are the same. That means heeding traffic signals, signage, right-of-way, speed limits, and much more.

Avoid alcohol use.

Alcohol impairs motor skills, which are necessary to walk and operate cars and bicycles safely. Many accidents and fatalities on the roads can be traced to

alcohol consumption. Do not drink and drive or drink and ride. Pedestrians who need to walk heavily trafficked areas would be smart to limit their alcohol consumption as well.

Make yourself more visible.

Pedestrians and cyclists can make themselves more visible to motorists in various ways. Wear bright-coloured, reflective gear when walking or riding, and install reflective lights on bicycles.

Remain alert at all times when behind the wheel.

Motorists should be focused on the road at all times, avoiding distractions such as smartphones and in-vehicle entertainment systems. Such devices can dramatically reduce motorists’ reaction times, greatly increasing the risk of accident. Slow down when cyclists, runners and other pedestrians are nearby.

Pass safely and give room.

Do not pass too closely when driving near cyclists and pedestrians. Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.

Whether driving, riding a bicycle or walking, everyone should work together to share roads safely.

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July, 2019 •

The benefits of electric vehicles

countries offer sizable tax credits to buyers of hybrid and electric vehicles. In addition, fuel costs for hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles are low, which can help offset the high purchase price of such automobiles.

E

lectric vehicles remain a curiosity for many motorists. While many industry experts predict all cars on the road will be electric models at some point in the future, gas-powered vehicles still outnumber electric cars by a wide margin.

Some drivers may be hesitant to purchase electric cars out of a fear of the unknown.

That’s understandable considering the cost of new vehicles, electric or gas-powered.

According to analysts at Kelley Blue Book, the average transaction price for light vehicles in the United States was more than

$36,000 in early 2018. That makes vehicles a significant investment and perhaps explains why consumers have thus far been hesitant to embrace electric cars en masse. But the benefits of electric cars are many, and understanding just what those benefits are might compel more drivers to make the leap.

Effects on local economies Many countries, including the United States, import a substantial percentage of the petroleum they consume. For

example, the U.S. Department of Energy notes that the United States imports 19 percent of the petroleum it consumes, threequarters of which is used for transportation.

All-electric vehicles can be powered solely by domestically produced electricity, which can benefit local economies in countries such as Canada and the U.S. Cost savings There’s no denying that purchase prices for electric cars and even hybrid vehicles are higher than those for more conventional, gas-powered vehicles. However, many

Environmental impact The U.S. DOE notes that electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions. The same goes for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles when they’re operating in all-electric mode.

That’s a substantial benefit, as tailpipe emissions pose a significant threat to the environment as well as human health.

Common tailpipe emissions include carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, benzene, and carbon dioxide. Such pollutants can lead to further depletion of the ozone and some, such as benzene, are known carcinogens.

Electric vehicles have yet to catch on a wide scale. However, the overwhelming benefits of such cars and trucks makes it extremely likely that they are the future of driving for those motorists who have thus far been hesitant to ditch their gas-powered automobiles.

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July, 2019 •

Exploring the classic/historical car hobby C

ar enthusiasts appeared as soon as the automobile was introduced to the general public in the 18th and 19th centuries. Through the years, certain vehicles have proven more desirable to customers than others based on their looks and other attributes.

Auto hobbyists devote substantial time and effort to purchasing, restoring and displaying classic cars. While the hobby of restoring classic cars is not necessarily for everyone, its popularity suggests it’s an activity that’s here to stay.

According to an article in The Economist, in the wake of the recent recession, investors were increasingly pulling their money out of stocks and converting assets into tangible items, such as classic cars. As late as 2013, collector cars were outperforming other tangible investments like art, wine, stamps, and coins by large margins.

Those ready to dip their toes in the classic car waters should understand a few key factors that can affect how much they enjoy this potentially rewarding hobby.

Environmental regulations.

Some collectors face challenges when attempting to restore classic vehicles because the cars do not meet today’s stringent clean air initiatives that govern automobiles. With the increasing number of new, clean cars on the road, vehicles that fail to meet modern emissions standards may pose a costly problem to classic car collectors.

Introduction of alternative fuels.

As governments increasingly emphasize the importance of clean fuel options, classic car owners may find it challenging to find more traditional fuels or face the added expense of adapting their vehicles to run on alternative fuels.

Lack of mechanical expertise.

Workers in the automotive trade are trained to manufacture and repair new vehicles. As a result, classic car owners without much mechanical ability of their own may find it difficult to find mechanics with the skills necessary to repair and restore classic cars.

Historic requirements should be heeded.

Each state has its own requirements governing classic cars.

To qualify for historic vehicle registration, vehicles may need to be 25 years or older, owned solely as a collector’s item and used exclusively for exhibition and educational purposes.

When driven for personal use, such vehicles may not be allowed to exceed 1,000 miles per year.

Classic cars continue to attract hobbyists from all over the globe. Restoring classic cars can be a rewarding pastime, but one that involves dedication and an investment of both time and money.

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