Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com
Moving on Up CLASS OF 2014
Sporty Luxurious Versatile
Big pickups ready to meet the need for fuller-sized trucks
Now THAT’S Infotainment Automakers are learning to drive your smartphone
2014 Toyota Tundra Available at Hubert Vester Toyota. See page 14.
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Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 4
Assessing The ‘ElEctrifiEd’ AlTernATives Today’s hybrid cars, plug-in hybrids and pure electric vehicles make it easy to go green, but deciding which saves the most fuel for the money can be challenging. By Jim Gorzelany CTW Features With high petroleum prices fueling consumer demand for more efficient cars, and automakers facing higher federal fuel economy mandates in the coming years, consumers are enjoying more choices than ever among gas-saving vehicles that run partially or fully on
electricity. By our count, buyers can choose from 57 hybrid, plug-in hybrid and full-electric models for 2013, with even more on the way for the 2014 model year. However, if the person who regularly parks their Toyota Prius hybrid at our local Walgreens in the parking space with the plug-in charging station
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 5
Greener than you think.
The Prius family all contain hybrid systems, and the original Prius sedan is available. Prius V is larger and meant for families; Prius C is compact, cheaper and performs best in the city; and the Prius Plug-In is the most environmentally conscious (and priciest).
that’s designated ”for PRIUS electric cars only” is any indication, there’s still some confusion among consumers regarding the various electrified options available. Here’s a quick overview: A hybrid vehicle comes primarily powered by a gasoline engine that’s augmented by an electric motor/generator and a self-charging battery pack. The engine automatically shuts down while decelerating and at idle in most situations to help maximize mileage. In a “full” hybrid like the 53/46-mpg (city/ highway) Toyota Prius c, the electric motor is able to run the vehicle entirely on its own at lower speeds and boost the gas engine at other times. Unfortunately, there’s a price to pay for the added fuel efficiency. According to the research company Vincentric in Bingham Farms, Mich., an average hybrid vehicle costs over $5,000 more than its gasoline-only equivalent. Depending on the model, owners may not be able to recover the added costs through fuel savings over a typical ownership cycle.
“Mild hybrids” like the 25/36-
mpg Chevrolet Malibu eAssist use a smaller motor to modestly enhance a gasoline engine. They command less of a price premium, though they don’t improve mileage as much as do full hybrids, with the stop-start function registering most of the gains.
A plug-in hybrid packs a larger battery and can run for longer periods – around 20 miles or less – solely on electric power before operating as a conventional hybrid, after which it needs to be recharged to run in all-
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electric mode. While fuel savings are greater, so are the costs. The Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid, for example, is rated at the equivalent of 95 mpg when running solely on battery power, and 51/49 otherwise; for 2013 it’s priced at $7,800 more than a standard Prius (though buyers receive a one-time federal income tax credit of $2,500 to help offset the added cost). Those having only nominal commutes stand to benefit more in fuel savings with a plug-in hybrid than do those who travel longer distances.
Electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf or Ford Focus Electric run solely on battery power. Having a finite range on a charge that typically run from 75-100 miles under ideal conditions – and often far less depending on the ambient temperature, vehicle speed and other factors – there’s always the potential for an unprepared motorist to become stranded with a depleted battery. Serving as the vehicular bridge between hybrid and EV technology, the compact Chevrolet Volt and newfor-2014 Cadillac ELR “extended range electric vehicles” add a small gasoline engine that runs a generator to power the car’s electric motor once the batteries are depleted. The Volt is able to run solely on electricity for around 38 miles on a charge, with its range beyond that limited only by the amount of gas in the tank. On the down side, electric cars remain expensive, with the Focus Electric starting at $39,200 and the
MODEL#1223, STK#TN5713, JTDKN3DU2D1675793 1.8 LITER 4 CYL, AUTOMATIC For qualified lessees with a credit score of 650 or higher through Southeast Toyota Finance. Closed-end lease. $224.00 per month for 36 months. $2,399 due at signing. Excludes, security deposit, tax, tag, registration, title and $399 dealer fees. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Must complete retail sale and take delivery by 10/31/2013.
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Chevrolet Volt at $39,145, though they’re subject to a one-time $7,500 federal income tax credit. On the plus side, sources estimate it costs about one-third to one-fourth the price to charge an EV than to travel the same distance on gasoline. For example, the Focus Electric is rated at the equivalent of 110/99 mpg if it were gasoline operated. What’s more, Ford estimates the electric version will save an owner at least $1,275 over the vehicle’s life, compared to a gasoline-powered Focus, by being able to avoid oil changes, cooling and transmission servicing and replacing the air filter, spark plugs and drive belts. Still, it can be prohibitively pricey to replace a worn-out EV battery after 10 or more years of service. Depending on the model, a full charge using 220-volt current takes between four and eight hours and likely twice that on a standard 110-volt circuit. Some homeowners may have
to rewire their garages and/or install a charging station to accommodate a plug-in vehicle. Though an EV generates no tailpipe emissions, the actual environmental impact of owning one depends on the local source of electricity. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, coal-fired power plants produce about twice the global warming emissions as natural gas facilities, while renewable sources like wind and solar power produce virtually no emissions at all. If the process of choosing which type of gas-saving vehicle is best for your needs and budget isn’t difficult enough consider that some of today’s conventionally powered models are now able to get impressive fuel economy – 40 mpg or more in some cases – without the added hassle or expense of the electrified technology. © CTW Features
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Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 7
Driving with the environment in mind Many people aspire to live more ecofriendly lifestyles. And while those same people may think driving less is one way to accomplish that goal, motorists can take steps to be more eco-friendly when behind the wheel. Electric cars have been touted as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional vehicles, but such cars are still beyond the budgets of many vehicle owners, and the fluctuating prices of electricity make electric cars bargains for some drivers but costly expenditures for others. Those fluctuating prices, which depend on geography and a host of other factors, can make it difficult to determine the true cost of owing an electric vehicle. But electric cars are not the only way drivers can go green. Look for vehicles made with recycled materials. Some vehicle manufacturers have begun to equip their vehicles with recycled components. Much like they might emphasize recycled materials when shopping for groceries or home furnishings, eco-friendly consumers can look for a vehicle that includes recycled materials among its features. Prioritize vehicle maintenance. Ensuring a vehicle is well-maintained is both practical and eco-friendly. Properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency, as poorly inflated tires make it harder for engines to operate at full capacity, forcing them to work harder and waste fuel in the process. Vehicles run more efficiently when owners adhere to their recommended maintenance schedules, so owners should familiarize themselves with the maintenance guidelines recommended in their owners’ manuals. Doing so can improve fuel efficiency, reduce potentially harmful emissions and save drivers money over the lives of their vehicles. Stay steady on the road and obey the speed limit. When driving, drivers who maintain a steady speed and obey the speed limit can save more fuel than drivers who constantly accelerate and decelerate. Pumping the accelerator sends more fuel into the engine, drastically reducing fuel efficiency as a result. Obeying the speed limit can also reduce their fuel consumption, as driving as little as 10 miles per hour more than the
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speed limit can reduce fuel efficiency. When possible, maintain a safe and steady speed. Avoid heavily trafficked roads. Heavily trafficked roads tend to feature lots of stop-and-go driving, which reduces fuel efficiency while putting more and tear on vehicles. When possible, stick to roads with less traffic. Such roads are not only better for your vehicle, but also less stressful on drivers. Clear your vehicle of unnecessary items. Cars have a tendency to become rolling closets. The longer drivers own their vehicles, the more personal items those vehicles seem to collect. Golf clubs, bowling balls, kids’ strollers, and other personal items should be removed from vehicles when making trips during which such items won’t be used. The heavier a vehicle is, the harder its engine must work, and the more fuel that engine consumes as a result. Drivers can dramatically improve their vehicles’ fuel efficiency by resisting the temptation to use those vehicles as storage closets. Driving is rarely seen as an eco-friendly activity. However, drivers can still take steps to reduce their carbon footprints when out on the road. Metro Creative Connection
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Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 8
Automakers are learning to drive your smartphone
NOW THAT’S INFOTAINMENT!
Chrysler’s Uconnect system (seen here in the 2014 Dodge Durango) is lauded as the easiest infotainment system to use.
By JAY KOBLENZ CTW Features
America’s love of the automobile could be in danger of fading in favor of the infusion of technology people carry in their pockets. With the advent of the mobile Internet, young people find it more important to bring the world to them instead of driving somewhere to see reality unfold. A survey released early this year by car-sharing network Zipcar, Inc. found, “Nearly two in three (65 percent) of Millennials (18-34-year-olds) say losing their phone (30 percent) or computer (35 percent) would have a greater negative impact on their daily routine than losing their car (28 percent).” Of course, if all those young people would rather stay
home looking at a four-inch screen than actually going somewhere, you might expect traffic to be getting lighter, which it decidedly is not. Answers to survey questions aside, Americans still spend considerable time in cars so they want their cars to do more. To meet these needs, automakers and electronics suppliers are hard at work getting your car to do all the things a smartphone can do, and still take you places. The biggest boon to consumers is bringing down the price point of an immense array of entertainment and information technology. By letting the phone do all the heavy lifting, the computer in your pocket can supply full access to the internet with immense potential. For automakers, the challenge is to
bring about an interface that makes the connection easily, quickly and with as little distraction from driving as possible. Some automakers are solving the problem by providing a more traditional automotive way of offering up the options. Chrysler’s latest Uconnect system has been acclaimed by many experts as among the easiest to use. It still retains such traditional elements as large, tactile buttons a driver can easily find and feel while looking out the windshield. “We want things to be comfortable and familiar,” says Chrysler spokesman Scott Brown. “There are two or three ways to do everything.” With such a system, everything works similarly, whether you are looking for information about your car’s performance,
maintenance or comfort settings, to the accessing the built-in Wi-Fi hotspot or your phone’s musical offerings. There is a choice here of voice command, touch screen or real buttons. “It’s got to be comfortable to use,” says Brown, “and not just for the kids.” Other brands are going towards the direction of turning the interface into a smartphone, something that may be comfortable to the youngest set of drivers, but off-putting to more mature car buyers. Cadillac’s Cue system is touted as being the same type of interface as a smartphone or tablet, including the swipe-and-spread finger movements to access screens. For many, even those very comfortable with an iPad, that may be next to impossible to do without spending long moments staring at
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 9 the screen instead of the road ahead. In an effort to keep the driver’s hands on the steering wheel, automakers are improving voice command systems. Honda recently announced it will be bringing access to Apple’s Siri system to the steering wheel. Once you connect your iPhone, a button on the wheel lets you talk to your phone through the car. “It takes the phone out of your hand,” says Honda spokesman Chris Martin. Some automotive and phone brands work better together. Several automakers are geared more toward the iPhone and Apple brand. Others make a great effort to mate with Android devices. For now, at least, Blackberry and Window phones are getting little attention in the automotive world. One of the difficulties is getting the wide array of media sources into a manageable format. Solving at least some of the dilemma of bringing together all the variations of phonebased entertainment is Aha Radio, a division of Harman. Aha is “an aggregator of internet content,” says Robert Myers, director of automotive accounts. Aha is currently available within the infotainment systems of ten automotive brands covering half of new car sales, including Ford, Chrysler and Honda. It’s a free downloadable app on either iPhone or Android phones that can be accessed through the phone or directly from the automotive interface on properly equipped vehicles. Aha allows you to choose among tens of thousands of internet resources and set your favorites as presets buttons. Thus the screen on your car could show Yelp, Facebook, Pandora or that eclectic radio station from another continent. You can sit with your smartphone at home and set up the content the way you want it presented in your car. Myers notes, “Aha’s ultimate goal
is really to provide the Internet into the car in a safe manner.” Using the smartphone’s GPS, content can also be location based, easily searching for the nearest coffee shop or Italian restaurant. It will read the Yelp reviews aloud while you drive. Your content is arranged by account. This essentially lets you have the same interface and choices when moving from car to car. It also means different driver’s have personalized settings automatically by bring in either their own phone or logging into a different account. For automakers it’s a matter of whether or not to integrate or separate entertainment and information. Some drivers want to know only the basics, like speed and fuel level. Others want Aha Radio is a smartphone app that aggregates internet content and connects to infotainment systems in 10 automotive brands.
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to keep detailed track of time, distance, oil temperature and everything possible about the vehicle’s condition and performance. Collision avoidance measures are gradually being integrated into this increasingly unwieldy collection of data. We’re heading towards systems where you can download your phone’s entertainment into your car and your car’s information log onto your phone. It’s a combination of engineering and art form to provide all of this knowledge while still allowing most drivers to move along the highway without disruption. As we move towards a future of increased entertainment choices in the car, you will still be able to compare and contrast each brand’s way to bring it to you in the most satisfying way. Android or iPhone, Chevy versus Ford. The choices will keep growing. © CTW Features
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2013 Dodge Durango SXT model shown. 1 Based on Ward’s Midsize Sport/Utility segment. Standard power. Starting at $29,495. MSRPs exclude tax, title and license fees. 2 The Best Buy seal and all other license materials are registered certification marks and trademarks of Consumers Digest Communicatons, LLC, ued under license. For award information, visit ConsumersDigest.com. 3 When properly equipped, Dodge is a licensed trademark of Chrysler Group, LLC.
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Big Trucks on The Move
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CHEVY SILVERADO TEXAS EDITION
New pickups from Chevrolet, GMC and Toyota are coming this year to help meet a renewed demand for full-size trucks By JIM GORZELANY CTW Features
See dealer for details.
www.hubertvesterchevrolet.com 3717 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson
252-291-2111
With modest increases already being registered during 2012 and into 2013, fullsize pickup sales are poised to skyrocket. According to the Wall Street Journal, the recovery of the U.S. housing market is an important driver of pickup sales, with builders and contractors, punished by the drop in new-home building caused by the economic crash of 2008 meeting a pentup demand to replace old vehicles. Fortunately, these buyers will be able to choose from a trio of revamped full-size pickup trucks later this summer, including the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra and Toyota Tundra. General Motors takes more of an evolutionary than revolutionary approach
with its mechanically equivalent trucks, the Silverado and Sierra. The overall look for both models is familiarly boxy and broad-shouldered, with the GMC versions carrying distinctive and more sophisticated-looking front-end treatments. As before, the trucks come in two-door standard-cab, extended cab models with a small back seat and two rear-hinged access doors and four-door Crew Cab versions. All models feature a new step built into the rear bumper for easy access into the cargo bed; Crew Cab models offer a longer 6.5-foot cargo box. A trio of new “EcoTec3” engines – a 4.3-liter V6 and 5.3- and 6.2-liter V8s – promise improved performance and fuel economy thanks to the latest powertrain technology, including direct fuel injection, variable valve timing and automatic
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 11
GMC SIERRA
cylinder deactivation. The optional 5.3-liter V8, which is expected to be the volume seller, will be rated at 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque and deliver a best-in-class 23-mpg in highway driving (22-mpg with four-wheel-drive). Assorted structural and engineering improvements are claimed to yield improved ride
and handling characteristics. Both the 2014 Silverado and Sierra feature nicely redesigned interiors with large legible gauges, and big buttons and dials on the dashboard. Newly available features include forward collision and lane departure warning systems for added safety and the MyLink infotainment
system that allows users to place calls via Bluetooth-tethered phones, operate the navigation system, play music and control other functions via natural language voice-commands. The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado will start at $24,585 for a regular cab model, while the base GMC Sierra will be priced at $25,085, including delivery charges. While the Toyota Tundra’s 2014 update isn’t as extensive, it’s redesigned to make a respectable run at the domestic competition – specifically targeting the salesleading Ford F-150 – in a market segment that’s fiercely brand-loyal. As with the F-150, the new Tundra comes capped with either of five separate front-end treatments, each of which is customized slightly according to each trim level. Again following the domestic pickups’ lead, the 2014 Tundra adds a new luxury minded version, called Platinum, which features premium double-stitched leather upholstery with heated/cooled front seats and a full platter of high-tech features,
including the automaker’s Entune multimedia connectivity system. To counter the Western-themed F-150 King Ranch and Ram Laramie Longhorn models, the Tundra adds a new “1794” edition with saddle brown embossed leather seating with ultrasuede accents (it’s named for the ranch, founded in 1794, on which the Tundra plant is located in San Antonio, Texas). Inside, a redesigned dashboard features easier-to-read gauges and improved ergonomics across the line, with a Bluetooth interface and backup camera now standard; a blind-spot warning system is newly optional. As before, the truck comes adequately powered in standard and extended-cab models by a 4.0-liter 270-horsepower V6 engine, with a 4.6-liter 310-horsepower V8 standard on Crew Cab models and a 5.7-liter 381-horsepower V8 optional to tackle heavier duty tasks. Expect the 2014 Toyota Tundra to start at around $26,000 for a base regular cab version. CTW Features
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Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 12
Moving on Up:
What’s NeW for
Acura RLX Acura’s new flagship sedan remains conservatively styled, but offers a roomier interior and added overall sophistication than the RL it replaces. The RLX comes powered by an economical 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 310 horsepower, with an all-wheel-drive version coming later in the model year that will deliver added muscle with a 370-horsepower V6. A standard Performance AllWheel Steering system adjusts the angle of the rear wheels slightly while cornering to quicken the car’s handling. Also new is an Automatic Brake Hold function that keeps the brakes engaged for up to ten minutes without the driver having to keep a foot on the pedal.
By JIM GORZELANY CTW Features
As they continue to shore up their mainstream car lines, an optimistic auto business likewise debuts several new sporty and luxurious new models over the coming months, and with the economy gaining steam, new fullsize pickup trucks to do the heavy lifting. Here’s a look at some of the hottest new and significantly redesigned models reaching dealers’ showrooms for the 2014 model year.
Cadillac ELR The new Cadillac ELR is essentially
a luxury coupe version of the Chevrolet Volt extended range electric vehicle with distinctive styling and a posher interior. As in the Volt, the ELR is powered by an electric motor and a plug-in chargeable battery pack, but once the battery runs low (after about 35
miles on a charge), a small gasoline engine engages to run a generator that, in turn, powers the motor. Those with a modest commute may rarely have to visit a gas station. Cadillac promises quick acceleration with sporty ride and handling attributes and a long list of safety and convenience features.
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 13
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
One of the most significant newcar introductions for 2014 brings a hallowed name back to an iconic American sports car. Coming in coupe and convertible versions, the Corvette Stingray is completely redesigned with an all-new chassis and mechanicals residing beneath seductively sleek bodywork. A technologically advanced 6.2-liter V8 engine channels an estimated 450 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque through the rear wheels, enabling the car to reach 60 mph in less than four seconds. Reengineered steering and suspension systems
Chevrolet SS The new top sedan at Chevy is a
and an array of sophisticated chassis-control hardware promise
tenacious handling, with a new Drive Mode Selector allowing the driver to tune the car according to 12 separate performance attributes.
sporty, aggressively styled rear-drive model that comes by way of General Motors’ Holden subsidiary in Australia. It packs a punch with the 2013 Corvette’s 6.2-liter 415-horsepower V8 engine, and can sprint from 0-60 mph in around five seconds. The SS rides on a sport-tuned suspension for grippy handling, with beefy Brembo-supplied brakes on hand for sure stopping abilities. A long list of standard and optional features include an Automatic Parking Assist function that steers the car into a parallel or reverse right-angle parking space with the driver only modulating the brake pedal.
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Fiat 500L More than just a fourdoor hatchback version of the Italian automaker’s perky two-door 500 subcompact, the 2014 Fiat 500L is an entirely different – and much more practical – vehicle. Featuring specific exterior styling cues with a distinctively
cast cabin, it’s considerably longer and wider and taller than the 500 coupe, with 42 percent more interior room. Power comes from a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s estimated to generate 160 horsepower and 184 poundfeet of torque for lively acceleration and strong highway passing power.
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www.hubertvesterchevrolet.com 3717 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson
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Jeep Cherokee The new midsize Cherokee features a dramatically sculpted exterior that’s capped
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 14
by a swept-back treatment of Jeep’s signature seven-slot front grille. It packs either a Fiat-supplied 184 horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a new 271-horsepower 3.2-liter V6, with an advanced nine-speed automatic transmission standard. The Cherokee rides on a four-wheel independent suspension that should deliver excellent ride and handling manners around town, with Jeep’s Selec-Terrain traction control system and three separate 4X4 systems optional for exceptional off-road abilities. It offers many high-tech safety features, along with upscale amenities like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats and a wireless charging pad for portable devices.
Toyota Tundra While the
redesigned Tundra full-size pickup largely carries over its engines and engineering, Toyota takes a few bold steps to target the domestic-branded competition, specifically the Ford F-150. Like that model, the new Tundra comes capped with five distinctive frontend treatments, one for each trim level. It also offers a new Platinum luxury version as well as a western-themed “1794” edition with plush accommodations that feature saddle brown embossed leather seating. As before, the truck comes in standard and extended-cab models and features a 4.0-liter V6 engine, with a 4.6-liter V8 standard on Crew Cab models and a 5.7-liter V8 optional.
GMC Sierra 1500 The Sierra
full-size pickup truck (along with its equivalent at Chevrolet, the Silverado) is fully redesigned yet retains its brawny broad-shouldered look. Again coming in a full range of configurations, new features include a handy step built into the rear bumper for easy access into the cargo bed and a longer 6.5-foot
cargo box for Crew Cab models. Power comes from a trio of updated V6 (4.3-liter) and V8 engines (at 5.3and 6.2-liters) that deliver improved acceleration, towing capacities and fuel economy. A nicely styled and roomy interior can be fitted with the MyLink infotainment system that allows users to control myriad functions via natural language voicecommands.
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 15
Infiniti Q50 This midsize luxury
features include an Active Lane Control system that automatically makes minor steering adjustments to help keep the Q50 centered between highway lane markers, and an i-Key system that allows up to four motorists to customize a wide range of operating parameters, automatically recognizing the user and making the necessary adjustments upon entry.
Kia Cadenza Kia, a brand known
wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. It coddles its occupants with a luxurious interior, piles on all the expected amenities and offers a few topshelf options the Optima lacks, including a power retractable rear sunshade and a power tilt/ telescoping steering wheel.
sedan takes over from the previous G37 with smoother styling and added features. A 328 horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine drives the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission, with a fuel-saving 3.5-liter V6 hybrid version alternately available; allwheel-drive is optional. New high-tech
more for its budget-minded models, takes a step into luxury-car territory with its new Cadenza sedan. It’s about five inches longer than Kia’s popular Optima and comes powered by a 3.3-liter direct-injected 293-horsepower V6 engine that drives the front
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Receive 2 FREE Tickets To The State Fair ($18 Value)
Inquire About A Service Or Maintenance Contract
274/MO
MODEL#2610, AUTOMATIC For qualified lessees with a credit score of 650 or higher through Southeast Toyota Finance. Closed-end lease. $274.00 per month for 36 months. $2,399 due at signing. Excludes, security deposit, tax, tag, registration, title and $399 dealer fees. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Must complete retail sale and take delivery by
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Buy 3 Tires $ GET THE 4TH TIRE FOR
Please call for availability. Includes all makes and models. We will also include complimentary tire rotations and puncture repairs for the life of the tires, at no additional charge! Call for details.
Must present coupon when order is written. Discount taken off regular posted price. Toyota & Scion vehicles only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or purchase. Discount offered by Hubert Vester Toyota. Expires 10/31/13.
2011 CAMRY LE
TTR3919A, 64K MILES
$12,433
TN5396A, PREM. PKG
$12,877
2012 TOYOTA COROLLA LE
2007 INFINITI G35
($18 Value)
• Tire R gnment chec es. li tir •Free A rchase of 4 ation you ll pu ta s in e n roadsid nitroge • With e one year of rd coverage receiv & road haza arge! l ch nce assista no additiona at
$5.00 $10.00 $20.00 $30.00 $40.00 $50.00 $75.00 $100.00
$11,989
TTR4220A,
MOONROOF PKG.
Tickets provided by Hubert Vester Toyota Scion. Limit 4 tickets per customer. Offer expires 10/19//2013
$
2009 TOYOTA 2007 VOLKSWAGEN 2010 PONTIAC GT COROLLA S BEETLE
TD5818B, MOONROOF
Brake Service Special .• Replace front or rear brake pads • Turn rotors • Check brake fluid • Check rear brakes
20
$
Subject to availability. Will pay up to $150 in one year period if the tire has be be replaced because it can’t be repaired. Must present coupon when order is written. Discount taken off regular posted price. Toyota & Scion vehicles only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or purchase. Expires 10/31/13.
3712 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson | 252-291-5300
$14,489
TN5680A 61K MILES
866-308-6968
OFF
Must present coupon when order is written. Discount taken off regular posted price. Toyota & Scion vehicles only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or purchase. Expires 11/30/13.
$14,489
TTR4257 BLUETOOTH
Oil & Filter Change • Lube chassis • Install new oil filter • Check & top off all fluids • Replace motor oil • Check & adjust tire pressure
$
$14,529 With
RY COMPLIMENTA 27 POINT INSPECTION!
10
OFF
Shop supplies still apply. Synthetic oil extra. Must present coupon when order is written. Discount taken off regular posted price. Toyota & Scion vehicles only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or purchase. Expires 10/31/13.
WWW.TOYOTAOFWILSON.COM
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 18
Come see us for all your tire needs. State-of-the-Art
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Jaguar F-Type Coming wrapped in stunningly
curvaceous styling, this new two-seat rear-drive convertible is positioned in size and price below Jaguar’s XK sports car. It packs a lively 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine that generates either 340 or 380 horsepower, depending on the version. A 5.0-liter 495-horsepower supercharged V8 is also available that enables the F-Type to hit 60 mph in just over four seconds. All engines come mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission that includes a manual paddle-shift mode. Its lightweight, yet-rigid aluminum structure, rear-drive configuration and sophisticated suspension promise sporty handling abilities.
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 19
$ Nissan Versa Note Redesigned and renamed, Nissan’s subcompact hatchback looks and feels more substantial than before, continuing with a roomy interior that benefits from a tall horizontal roofline. Its 1.6-liter 109 horsepower, four-cylinder engine is both peppy and economical. Class-exclusive features include an optional Around-
View Monitor system that gives the driver a 360-degree look around the vehicle for easier and safer parking. Also optional is a Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant that can read messages aloud and enables users to respond by voice command or preset text (like “on my way”) to minimize distraction. CTW Features
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DOG IS MY CO-PILOT Riding in cars with pets is a common occurrence in today’s animal-centric world. Keeping them safe should be every owner’s top priority. These 2014 models make safety a snap… and keep vehicles cleaner, too! By RACHEL GRAF CTW Features
Dogs don’t get their rep as “man’s best friend” for nothing. We use them for therapy, for service, for companionship. They are even allowed on many college campuses during exam weeks in an effort to calm stressed students. In the United States alone there are an estimated 70 million pet dogs, according to the 2012 U.S. Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook.
More than 60 percent of pet owners considered their pets to be family members in 2011, according to the same survey. And as with any family member, when the family goes on a vacation the dogs often come along for the ride. Many people, however, don’t fully realize the dangers that driving with a dog or other pet animal may pose. Dogs can be a huge distraction to drivers, with more than 50 percent of people petting a dog while driving, 17 percent
of people holding a dog in their lap while driving and 3 percent of people taking a photo of their dog while driving, according to the 2011 AAA / Kurgo Pet Passenger Survey. Because 21 percent of injury crashes involve distracted driving, according to a 2009 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report, this issue should not be taken lightly. “Some of the things people don’t think about is you can have a very minor fender bender and if your airbag releases and
your dog is on your lap, that is going to be tragic,” says KC Theisen, director of pet care issues at the Humane Society of the United States. A dog that weighs just 10 pounds can emit 500 pounds of force in a crash that occurs at 50 mph, according to the pet passenger survey. To increase safety and comfort for pets and drivers, car manufacturers have begun to equip new models with features that accommodate man’s best friend.
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 21
2014 Volvo XC70 A notable feature of this model is its pet barrier system that prevents animals from climbing into the front section of the vehicle. The barrier sits between the two front seats of the car and serves as an impenetrable divide between front and rear passengers. Unlike a lot of pet barriers that you can purchase on Amazon.com or similar sites, this system has been crash-tested by Volvo and can be professionally installed by the dealer. Another pet-friendly feature is the blind spot warning system that will alert the driver when an object such as a small pet is in the car’s blind spot, potentially preventing a tragic accident.
2014 Honda Odyssey New to the 2014 Odyssey is the HondaVAC, the first ever built-in car vacuum. Traveling with pets can get messy; fur gets on the seats,
Heads up! The Volvo XC70’s blind spot warning system detects pedestrians, vehicles and pets that dart into your path.
bone bits get wedged into the floor and dirt gets tracked throughout the vehicle. The HondaVAC makes cleaning up after these muddy mutts much less of a headache. The vacuum works continuously when the car motor is running or for up to eight minutes when the engine is off.
The built-in HondaVAC makes it easy to clean up after pets and other messy passengers.
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Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 22
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander The 2014 Outlander is unique amongst competitors because its back two rows of seats can fold down, providing lots of room for large dog crates. Car buyers who show dogs are especially interested in cars with lots of cargo room that can accommodate big crates, says
Subaru Forester 2014 Subaru Forester When purchasing this car, buyers are given the option of adding on many pet-friendly features. For example, car buyers can purchase the 2014 Subaru Forester dog guard/compartment separator. Similar to Volvo’s pet barrier system, this accessory can be
installed in the rear of the vehicle to prevent pets from climbing into the front section of the car. Additionally, Subaru sells a cargo tray that helps keep the cargo area free from damage. The tray can be removed and washed easily.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Scotty Nicholas, general manager and partner at Mullinax Ford, Orlando, Fla. The 2014 Outlander also comes with an under-floor storage area, so your pet won’t have to compete with excess luggage or other travel necessities.
2014 HYundai Equus This car model is equipped with a rear console storage unit that can either cool or heat its contents. This device would work well for storing dog food or medicine during longer car rides. Theisen recommends always having food and water on hand when traveling with animals. Treats can help entice a pet from a compromising situation, such as a small dog that refuses to move from the driver’s feet. Moreover, food and water are handy to have on hand for the
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Auto Accessories If you’re not in the market for a new car, there are many accessories for purchase that can improve pet safety and comfort in your current vehicle. From pet hammocks for your car to collapsible water bowls, you can find most anything online these days.
Car safety harness Hyundai Equus general comfort of your pets. Additionally, the 2014 Equus has three different temperature zones: for the driver, passengers and rear passengers. Drivers can therefore ensure that their pet is always traveling at a comfortable temperature for its specific needs.
“A seatbelt, a real harness designed for dogs, is one of the safest ways to go because it prevents the pet from being thrown around in the case of an accident,” says KC Theisen, the Humane Society of the U.S.
2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA
Backseat bridge
This accessory bridges the gap between front and rear seats so your pet is less likely to be thrown to the floor in a sudden stop.
Pet travel bowl
Perfect for longer car rides, this travel bowl collapses to about an inch thick for easy packing and storage in a full car.
Rear seat hammock
This hammock for dogs connects to the headrests of front and rear seats. It increases pet safety by
discouraging your pup from jumping into the front seat. This car accessory also protects the backseat area from doggy damage.
Bucket booster pet seat
Improves pet safety by securing the dog in place (car’s seat belt can go through the booster seat and a dog harness can also be attached). Improves pet comfort by allowing smaller dogs to comfortably see out the window. RACHEL GRAF © CTW Features
CTW Features
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**Price plus tax, tag, and $399 doc fee. Price includes all applicable rebates and incentives and consumer must qualify. Must take in stock unit and immediate delivery. See Medlin Hyundai for details. Expires 10/31/2013. Hyundai Assurance is valid on any new Hyundai model, financed or leased, for up to one year after purchase. Restrictions apply. Advertised offers cannot be combined.
MEDLIN HYUNDAI
www.medlinhyundai.com • Hwy 301 N (Wesleyan Blvd.), Rocky Mt, 252-985-2601 • 800-305-3408
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MODEL#2546, STK#TN6042, 4T1BF1FK8EU735228 MSRP $24,999, 2.5 LITER 4 CYL, AUTOMATIC For qualified lessees with a credit score of 650 or higher through Southeast Toyota Finance. Closed-end lease. $179.00 per month for 36
months. $2,995 due at signing. Excludes, security deposit, tax, tag, registration, title and $399 dealer fees. 60 monthly payments of $24.99 for each $1,000 borrowed at 0% APR. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Must complete retail sale and take delivery by 10/31/2013.
NEW 2014 TOYOTA COROLLA LE LEASE A NEW 2014 TOYOTA COROLLA LE FOR
MODEL#1852, STK#TN5996, 2T1BURHE9EC000481, MSRP $19,658 1.8 LITER 4 CYL, AUTOMATIC For qualified lessees with a credit score of 650 or higher through Southeast Toyota Finance. Closed-end lease. $3,399.00 per month for 36
months. $2,399 due at signing. 60 monthly payments of $19.57 for each $1,000 borrowed at 0% APR. Excludes, security deposit, tax, tag, registration, title and $399 dealer fees. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Must complete retail sale and take delivery by 10/31/2013.
LEASE vs. BUY Do you prefer the flexibility of a lease or the stability of a purchased car? Weigh the pros and cons before you make a decision that will change your financial future By MARLA R. MILLER CTW Features
MODEL#6945, STK#TD5170, 5TDZA3EH6DS0316407, MSRP $30,448, 2.7 LITER 4 CYL, AUTOMATIC For qualified lessees with a credit score of 650 or higher through Southeast Toyota Finance. Closed-end lease. $274.00 per month for 36 months. $2,399 due at signing. 60 monthly payments of $30.45 for each $1,000 borrowed at 0% or 72 monthly payments of $42.34 for each $1,000 borrowed at .9% APR. Excludes, security deposit, tax, tag, registration, title and $399 dealer fees. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Must complete retail sale and take delivery by 10/31/2013.
When it comes to new car-itis, leasing affords people the opportunity to enjoy Audi luxury on a Toyota salary. And who doesn’t like a new set of wheels? The smell. The reliability. The warranty. The amenities. In today’s market, various dealer and manufacturer incentives offer lease payments between $200 and $300 per month for compact cars, small SUVs and a few hybrid models. These deals include no money at sign-
ing or have lower monthly payments when you make a down payment, usually around $2,000. Car payments can squeeze the budget when money is tight. But for many, keeping a job hinges on reliable transportation. Leasing has changed a lot in the last 15 years due to lower interest rates, shorter lease terms and high resale values, making it a great time to consider a lease if you need a new car but a cheaper payment says Richard Bustillo, general manager of Rick Case Honda, the world’s largest
Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 25 dealership for all things Honda throughout the West Broward County, Fla., area Leasing makes good financial sense for people who like luxury vehicles, want a new car every few years, take care of it and can stay within the annual mileage limits says Philip Reed, senior consumer advice editor at Edmunds.com. If the image of a new car or particular brand serves as a status symbol, like a BMW, Audi or Lexus, leasing can put these luxury cars in reach because the payment is comparable to a less expensive model, Reed says. In essence, leasing means you are renting the car for a typical period of 24- or 36-months. Leasing experts build the payment around the value of the car when the lease expires. Right now, the used car market is strong, translating into high residual values, Bustillo says. Nearly 50 percent of Rick Case Honda customers lease, and he has customers who finish a
T $ N A T INS
lease with equity. The average lease payment is $100 to $120 cheaper per month due to the fact you only pay for the time you are using the vehicle. Bustillo said most people trade out their vehicle every 27 months. Buying it is only beneficial if you plan to keep it two years after you pay it off, typically seven years. “No one owns their vehicle until they make the last payment,” Bustillo says. “You’re less likely to lose with a lease because a car is a depreciating asset. It’s always going to be worth less.” That’s another reason to consider high-end makes and models. Cars that hold their resale values well are less expensive to lease; cars that depreciate quickly will cost more to lease, says Jack Tracey, executive director of the National Vehicle Leasing Association, a nonprofit organization representing the vehicle leasing industry in Hanover, Md.
Philip Reed Senior consumer advice editor at Edmunds.com
Continued, Page 26
500
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LEASE VALUE COUPON CAN
See dealer for details.
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Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 26 “If used car prices are high, you can set the residual values higher, which means the payment is lower,” he says. “Leasing drives the more luxury model cars because they do hold value.” For people who don’t mind driving the same car for years, or put lots of miles on a car in a year, traditional buying is still a better bet. Or if you have four or five kids you haul around. Or if you tend to spill things, or do not take care of the interior. As with any rental agreement, you must be prepared to meet the terms of the agreement or pay penalties. This includes things like average wear and tear and staying within annual mileage limits. Exterior nicks and scratches count, too. Tracey said those considering a lease should be realistic and upfront about the miles they drive. If it means paying more per month to increase the annual mileage limit, work that into the terms of the lease agreement to avoid being stuck with hefty fees. “You’re going to pay for it one way or the other,” Tracey says. “Yes, the payment goes up, but you spread the cost over the lease.” Reed agrees, noting that is it cheaper to add and buy miles pre-lease signing. The industry standard is 12,000 annually. “If you know you drive 25,000 miles a year, don’t lease,” he said. There has been a trend toward shorter lease payments averaging two or three years, rather than four or five, Reed says. One benefit of that is the vehicle’s warranty. You have to buy an extended war-
ranty or incur the repair costs otherwise, he says. Bustillo adds that with leasing you are free and clear of the car if you get into an accident, as long as you repair it, when the lease ends. “You turn it in and it’s the bank’s problem, not your problem,” he says. “It reduces your risk.” The biggest downfall is you must do something when the lease expires, either buy that car or buy or lease another one. It’s good for people who want to maximize cash flow with a lower payment or need a nice car for their job, Reed says. In many cases, people can take a business deduction if they lease a vehicle and drive it for work. If you can afford a little higher monthly payment, rather than put down $3,000, Reed recommends people make a small down-payment, like $1,000, and put the rest of the money in the bank and use it to make the monthly payment. Make sure to read the fine print and budget for sales taxes and registration fees. “It can be quite a bit of money up front if you want to get that wonderfully low payment they advertise,” Reed says. Edmunds.com, headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif., has an extensive website featuring various payment calculators to compare buying vs. leasing, prices for new and used vehicles, a database of national and regional incentives and rebates, vehicle test drive reviews and tips and advice on all aspects of car purchases and ownership. © CTW Features
4 things to consider when leasing a car • How much do I have to put down? • How much is the monthly payment? • How long is the lease? • How many miles do I drive?
Must-have items for automotive emergencies Few drivers want to think about their vehicles breaking down. But cars are not foolproof, and even the most well-maintained vehicle can be sidelined by a flat tire or a dead battery. In certain times of the year, a breakdown may be an inconvenience that takes up a few hours of a person’s time. In extreme weather situations, a broken down car could be dangerous. Preparing for emergency situations can help drivers get moving faster. There are certain items that should be kept in the trunk or cargo area regardless of the season, and some of these items should be modified as the seasons change. • First aid kit: If someone is hurt in an accident, medical supplies in the trunk allow drivers and/or passengers to treat injured persons until paramedics can arrive. Go over what is in the kit and learn how to use each item correctly. • Flares: If your car breaks down at night or in situations where visibility is poor, flares can keep other drivers away from your vehicle when it is parked on the side of the road. Flares also will illuminate the area so that you can work on fixing a problem or alert emergency personnel as to where you are located. • Jumper cables: Jumper cables enable you to recharge a dead battery, a common problem in cold weather. Automotive retailers also sell portable car battery chargers that can provide the boost needed to the battery in the event you cannot find another car around to offer assistance. • Spare tire and tools: Tire blowouts or holes in tires are unpredictable. Having the necessary items at the ready can get you back on the
road faster. Learn how to change a tire. In a pinch, tire sealant can be used to get you to the next service station and away from the side of the road. • Flashlight and batteries: A flashlight makes it possible for drivers to see under their vehicles and under the hood more effectively. It also can be used to grab the attention of fellow motorists who might be able to help. Keep extra batteries for the flashlight on hand as well. • Blankets: A blanket can keep passengers warm if a car breaks down in chilly weather. Blankets also can be placed on the ground so that you can lay on the road and be cushioned from debris when looking under the car. • Extra clothing: An extra set of clothing can be handy should your clothing become soggy or soiled. • Nonperishable foods: A few snacks and bottles of water stashed in the car can help quell hunger while waiting for a tow truck. • Sand and kitty litter: Sand can weigh down the back of a rearwheel drive vehicle to provide better traction on slippery roads. Sand and kitty litter also can be sprinkled underneath tires to help them grip the road better when you are trying to get the car out of an icy or muddy patch. • Charged mobile phone: Keep your cell phone charged so that you can make emergency phone calls or contact a tow company in the event of a breakdown. • Shovel: A shovel makes it easier to dig a vehicle out of mud or snow.
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VOLVO PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE DETECTION
Driving on Auto-Pilot Self-driving cars are fast becoming a reality, but are motorists ready to take their hands off the wheel?
By JIM GORZELANY CTW Features
The covers of Popular Science magazine have long depicted a future in which commuters will reach their places of employment in, if not a flying car, at least a self-driving vehicle that allows its owner to merely sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. Get ready for the next revolution in transportation, as the so-called fully autonomous car is inching closer to reality. Automakers including BMW, Ford, General Motors and Volkswagen are already in the process of developing self-piloting vehicles, with the Society of Automotive Engineers predicting they’ll be reaching showrooms by 2025. Silicon Valley tech giant Google
has reportedly logged more than 300,000 miles on its own homegrown fleet of autonomous prototype models without an accident. What’s more, they’re already legal in four states (California, Florida, Nevada and Texas) with others expected to allow them as the technology advances. A self-driving car would be able to automatically stay between lane markers, maintain a proper interval in traffic and reduce its speed as necessary before entering a curve, while also observing local speed limits. Such systems would likely be operable only in highway driving and under ideal conditions (good visibility and well-marked lanes, for example); the driver would still be required to monitor the system so he or she could intervene in safety-critical situations.
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Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 29 Not just a convenience, robo-cars are hoped to help save lives. More than 30,000 people are killed annually in crashes, with the overwhelming majority of them due to driver error. Surprisingly, creating an automotorcar doesn’t require a proverbial reinvention of the wheel. Engineers are working to leverage off-the-shelf technology like GPS navigation, electric power steering, laser proximity detectors, monitoring cameras, electronic throttle control and auto braking, and network it all into one integrated function. Already there are cars that offer laser-guided adaptive cruise control that automatically works the brakes and throttle to keep the car a safe distance from the traffic ahead at highway speeds; some systems can even operate in stop and go traffic. Several models now offer forward-collision mitigation systems that will automatically apply the brakes at full force to avoid a crash if the driver isn’t reacting quickly enough. Volvo will be introducing a system in Europe later this year that will self-brake to avoid hitting pedestrians and bicyclists who may suddenly dart into a vehicle’s path. Also, blind spot and lane-departure detection systems are finding their way into a growing number of vehicles. While a few models include the ability to “nudge” the vehicle back into a lane via braking and/or steering adjustments without driver intervention, a new lane-departure system debuting in the 2014 Infiniti Q50 will automatically make minor steering adjustments to help keep the sedan centered between the lane markers in the first place. And several automakers now offer automatic-parking systems, with the driver only required to modulate the brake pedal. Audi recently previewed a future system that would allow a driver to simply leave the car at the door of a parking garage and allow the vehicle to locate the nearest available space on its own and park itself via an array of cameras and sensors. The system would even work the other way around, with the car able to auto-
There’s a host of thorny legal issues automakers will have to contend with, including product liability, negligence and design defects.
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NOW: matically pull out of the space when summoned and drive back to the entrance. Unfortunately, self-driving cars face a number of hurdles, none the least of which is consumer acceptance. Research conducted by J.D. Power & Associates in Westlake Village, Calif., indicated that just 37 percent of vehicle owners surveyed “definitely would” or “probably would” purchase an autonomous driving system in their next car, with that number dropping to 20 percent when a price is given, which for the sake of argument was pegged at $3,000. And then there’s a host of thorny legal issues automakers will have to contend with, including product liability, negligence and design defects. For example, who would be held accountable if a self-driving car is involved in a crash, the motorist sitting behind the wheel or the manufacturer? If a car is set to maintain a certain speed and doesn’t react in due course when the posted limit changes, is the driver liable for the ensuing speeding ticket? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is embarking on a $2 million research project to explore the safety and reliability of self-piloting autos and develop a set of regulations that govern them, but it could well be the courts that decide when – and if – any of us are able to own an autonomous auto. Now about that flying car… © CTW Features
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Friday, October 11, 2013 wilsontimes.com 30
What to expect at each service interval Let’s face the facts, no one likes car maintenance. Not only can proper services be expensive, but keeping track of what needs to be done at certain intervals can be a major headache. The last thing a car owner wants is to pay for a service that wasn’t needed in the first place. Unfortunately ignoring auto maintenance isn’t an option, as doing so will only create more maintenance problems down the road. Proactive maintenance will make the life of a car owner much easier. This maintenance guide will help owners avoid any unnecessary confusion and gives a general idea of what is to be expected at each major service interval. Specifics differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, but the following should be standard across most makes and models.
Change Engine Oil Frequently Oil is commonly referred to as the life- blood of an engine and for good reason. Proper lubrication is tantamount to an engine’s health, so you need to regularly replace your engine oil and oil filter. The engine oil and filter should be changed, on average, about every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for a typical gasoline engine. Some modern synthetic oils allow up to 7,500 miles of protection between changes, but only under ideal driving conditions. Since most of the drives we take are short trips in stop-and-go traffic, it’s always a good idea to change your oil more frequently than the maximum recommended interval. An oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles is a safe way to avoid any unnecessary mechanical issues.
Your First Major Check-up: 15,000-Mile Service
30,000-Mile Service
Your first major service should come at about 15,000 miles, or twelve months, after purchasing your car. Given the young life of you car and its components, it’s a relatively basic procedure. Expect to have the engine oil and oil filter changed, along with the engine air filter and the in-cabin air filter. A new engine air filter will ensure optimal gas mileage and keep engine contaminants at a minimum, while a new in-cabin air filter will keep your car’s interior dust and contaminant free. Wiper blades should also be inspected at this point, especially if winter is approaching, and replaced as needed. Understanding all of the items in your 15,000-mile service is important, because this process will be repeated at all major services.
In addition to the items replaced at your 15,000-mile service, a new fuel filter will be needed to keep your engine running smooth. Engine coolant will also be changed at this time to ensure your car’s engine does not overheat, and power steering and transmission fluids should be flushed out and replaced. These fluids break down over time and lose their effectiveness and, for the average commuter, these fluids will have been in use for roughly two years. This service should be repeated every 30,000 miles to keep your car in good health.
45,000-Mile Service Your 45,000-mile service will include familiar, commonly changed maintenance items such as an oil and oil filter change, but the additional focus of the service will be on the car’s ignition system.
LUBE, OIL CHANGE, FILTER & TIRE ROTATION
OIL, FILTER & LUBE
Up to 5 quarts of conventional oil. Excludes diesel & synthetics. Expires Oct. 31, 2013
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Spark plugs are key engine components that need to be replaced after three years or 45,000 miles. Worn-out spark plugs can cause misfires and dead cylinders, which seriously harm the performance and lifespan of an engine. A new ignition management system, which runs the spark plugs, should also be fitted to ensure the entire ignition system is functioning normally. Brake fluid should also be changed after 45,000 miles or three years, as it absorbs water over time and thickens, losing its efficacy. Brake pads need to be checked and replaced as needed, especially for drivers who spend a significant amount of time in stop-and-go traffic.
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252-235-3535 • Cell # 252-230-4100 SERVING SURROUNDING AREA SINCE 1984 Harris Perry - Owner 7403 Marsh Swamp Rd. • Sims, NC
60,000-Mile Service At 60,000 miles, the 30,000-mile service should be repeated with one additional replacement, the timing belt. The timing belt runs critical internal engine components (specifically cams and valves) and can cause serious damage to the engine if it breaks, so be careful not to overlook this easy-to-miss item. Due to its age and constant use, the car’s battery will probably be losing its charge by now and should also be replaced to
Many drivers will experience a flat tire at some point in their lives. Flat tires can be a nuisance, especially if a flat leaves you stranded on the side of an empty road with little opportunity for passing traffic to help you. Knowing how to change your own tire can keep you from sitting on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck or fellow motorist. There is no need to feel helpless when your vehicle gets a flat tire. Changing a flat tire is relatively easy and can take just a few minutes if you are prepared and know how to get the job done. 1. Turn on your emergency flashing hazard lights and pull the car safely over to the side of the road where you will not be in the path of traffic. 2. Try to find a level, stable surface so that the car will not roll. 3. Put the car in park and engage the emergency brake. Place bricks or wooden blocks under the tires on the opposite side to prevent the car from rolling. 4. If you have cones or flares, use them to make your vehicle more visible to fellow motorists. This can save you from being struck while changing the flat.
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LAND CLEARING • EARTH MOVING EXCAVATING • GRADING • BUILDING SITE PREPARATION DETENTION & SEDIMENT POND CLEAN OUT • FARM WORK
Repeat this service every 45,000 miles to ensure maximum engine health and brake use.
How to change a flat tire...
BULLDOZE
avoid future start-up troubles. Repeat this service every 60,000 miles, and at 75,000 miles, repeat your initial 15,000-mile service. Car maintenance is - by its very nature - an inconvenience, but by following this simple guide, you can easily keep track of your vehicle’s major maintenance items. Regular maintenance will ensure your vehicle remains as problem-free as possible and help retain its resale value. Metro Creative
5. Connect the jack handle to the rest of the device. Slide the jack under a secure part of the car frame near the damaged tire. 6. Use a screwdriver to pry off the wheel cover or remove the hub cap to gain access to the lug nuts on the tire. 7. Use your tire wrench to find the side of the wrench that matches the size of the lug nuts. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen all the nuts. Loosen them until they can comfortably be removed all the way by hand. 8. Use long strokes when pumping the jack to reduce the effort you have to put. Lift the car up until the wheel clears the ground. 9. Remove the lug nuts and store them in a safe spot until later. Grasp the flat tire with both hands and pull it toward you until it clears the ends of the bolts. Roll the flat to the rear of the vehicle. 10. Lift the spare tire into place and slide it in completely over the bolts. 11. Replace the lug nuts and tighten them by hand. 12. Carefully lower the vehicle and remove the jack. Tighten the lug nuts completely with the wrench. Then replace the wheel cover. 13. Put the flat in the trunk for proper disposal or repair later on. 14. Remove the blocks from your tires and disengage the emergency brake. You should now be ready to get back on the road. Metro Creative
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