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2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

By JAY KOBLENZ CTW FEATURES

The good news is, auto theftsare down. According to theFederalBureauofInvestigation,7.2 percent fewer vehicleswere stolen in 2011 than in

the previous year.The bad news is that stillmeans nearly 740,000 vehicles wereswiped from driveways and parking lotsacross the U.S.And that doesn’t account forvehicles that were vandalized and/or haditems or components stolen from them.

The National Insurance Crime Bureauin Des Plaines, Ill., recommends astuteowners heed four layers of car security.Thefirst layer is free: Don’t forget to take thekeys, close the windows, lock the doorsand park in the safest, most well-lit areapossible. Also, be sure not to leave valu-ables in plain sight.Unfortunately,few carscome with locking glove boxes these daysand with the rise of folding seatbacks andopen-hatch SUVs, the concept of a securetrunk may be waning. But just puttingitems in a covered storage area or under

the seat helps deflect roving eyes. Get inthe habit of taking with you what you can.For those who must leave expensive itemsinside a vehicle,an installer can bolt a lock-ing storage compartment into the trunk orrear hatch that should discourage all butthe most ardent criminals

The second layer of security is to alertpotential thieves that your car is protected.Apply a visible window decal or blinkingLED and etch a vehicle’s identification

number on the glass and key components.An audible alarm or obvious anti-theft mea-sure like a steering wheel lock also aregood measures to scare off bad guys.Thethird layer of security is technology thatimmobilizes a vehicle to prevent it frombeing started and driven away.If the previ-ous three fail, the final layer is a trackingdevice that lets authorities locate a stolenvehicle.

Some of these items require installationof costly technology,but none replace thecommonsenseofparkingyourcarbeneatha street lamp rather than the darkest partof the block or lot; making your car moredifficult to steal than the next one on the

block dramatically improves your odds ofkeeping it in the first place.Here’s a quicklook at the gear that can help:

first of its kind in this product category. It’ssince been joined by various other brands.The device simply locks onto a steeringwheel and helps prevent a car from beingdriven away.It’s an obvious visual deterrentand an affordable one, starting at around$30andrunningashighas$100,dependingon the brand and style.Deluxe versions lockboth the steering wheel and the brakepedal for an added layer of security, andsome are engineered to additionally protectthe driver’s-side air bag from theft. Thedownside: You have to remember to use it,it takes time to engage and remove and youhave to store it somewhere while driving.

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D Ethe cheapest and most effective ways tothwart a thief is to install a simple killswitch. Hidden out of sight, it shuts downpart of a car’s electrical system so it can’t bestarted. Few crooks will take much timefiguring out why a given vehicle won’t startand will move on to the next one. Moresophisticated systems incorporate engineimmobilizers in which a fuel shut-off func-tion lets the thief drive a block or twobefore the car stops – hopefully in a more-public location where he or she won’twant to spend time trying to restart the car.Hardware in this class ranges from about$25 to $125 and usually requires profes-sional installation

-er a loud siren or the car’s blaring horn,attracts attention and prevents most villainsfrom lingering near your vehicle. Bettersystems also flash the headlights to identifywhich car is in danger in a crowded park-ing lot.Technology has reduced the num-ber of false alarms by adding different typesof sensors that can tell when a noise ormovement comes from inside rather than

outside of the car.Shock sen-sors can determine glassbreakage or whether some-one is trying to tow the caror raise it to steal its wheels.

A basic alarm system cancost as little as $150, plusinstallation. A fully loadedsystem can easily break the$1,000 threshold. Many ofthese systems can be cus-tomized with myriad add-onfeatures that include keylessentry, remote start, remotenotification via a key foband even full-blown integra-tion with smartphones. Forexample,Viper’s Smart Startsystem can arm the alarm,lock or unlock the car, startthe vehicle,pop the trunk andengage a panic alarm, all viaan iPhone or Android app.

directionally challenged motorist back tothe car in a crowded parking lot.It can even

be set to give parents alertson teenage drivers’ where-abouts or if they exceed aset speed limit.

Unfortunately, no alarmsystem works well if it’s notinstalled properly. TheMobile ElectronicsCertification Program ispart of the ConsumerElectronics Association andcurrently certifies morethan 4,500 installers.Certification applies to bothsales people and installers,so it’s a good idea to checkto ensure that the personwho’s actually doing the

job is properly accredited.

Acknowledging that the mosttalented crooks can thwarteven the best anti-theft mea-

sures, a final layer of security involves track-ing and getting back a vehicle after it is sto-len. LoJack, introduced in 1986, is the best-

known tracker of stolen vehicles and claimshaving helped find more than 10,000 stolenvehicles in 2010 alone. The downside isprice:the service,which works with a trans-mitter and a radio frequency signal, starts atabout $600,plus a monthly fee.It’s the onlysystem on the market that’s activated by thepolice,who are as eager to capture the thiefas an owner is to recover the car.

Other systems can track your vehicle’swhereabouts using GPS. Now available formost later-model cars is a replacementrearview mirror that incorporates GeneralMotors’ OnStar telematics system, whichwas previously available only onGM-branded cars and trucks. For about$200 and a $19 monthly fee, OnStar alsoprovides emergency services, Bluetoothhands-free calling, roadside assistance andstolen vehicle tracking.For example,if a caris stolen, the owner reports the theft topolice. OnStar provides law enforcementofficers with the vehicle’s location,enablingthem to track and pull over the car andcatch the thief.

� CTW Features

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By JAY KOBLENZ CTW FEATURES

There’s no need to be enviousof new cars equipped withthe latest and greatest elec-tronic features. It can be sur-prisingly easy and affordable

to upgrade your current vehicle with someof the most fanciful and practical develop-ments in automotive technology withaftermarket accessories.

Perhaps you want to connect yoursmartphone wirelessly, get the latest inonboard navigation systems, keep yourpassengers entertained or acquire the lat-est, greatest safety devices.A host of theseupgrades can be purchased at nominalprices.Some require little or no installation.They’re commonly available at electronicsand auto-parts stores, car stereo retailersand even new-car dealerships,with profes-sional installation usually offered if neces-sary.Here’s a look at the ways you can keepyour car up to date without trading it in.

-sive original-equipment option but todayyou don’t even need a dedicated system to

smartphoneandapropermountingdeviceis all that’s required. Still, not everyoneownsadataplan-enabledphone.Standalone

-ful,and manufacturers offer a host of high-

end innovative features. Smartphone Link,

the company’s newest Bluetooth enabled

Services, your phone can deliver traffic,

device, using the smartphone’s mobiledata plan. Some live services are free; oth-ers – such as live traffic and fuel pricecomparison – require a paid subscription.

seconds.

alerts,direct drivers to the proper lane for

photos of oncoming intersections. Someincorporate handy trip guide data, includ-ing restaurant reviews. TomTom-brandunits allow users to download celebrityvoices to give turn-by-turn instructions.

time traffic, fuel prices and weather infor-mation; a subscription service deliversaccess to restaurant reviews on YELP and

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D Enew version of theTomTom app for iPhonenow works on the larger iPad devices.

(oranyoccupants) in thebackseathappycan

packages vary from basic plug-in units thathang from the front-seat headrests to built-inmodels with one or two screens that requireprofessional installation.Top models featurewireless headphones so viewers don’t disturbother passengers. Another option gainingpopularity is to simply hand the passenger(s)an iPad or Android tablet computer that canplay video,games and,with the right connec-tivity,access the Internet.

to improving the quality of a car’s audio sys-tem or adding some of the latest connectivityfeatures, the only limits are the amount ofmoney in your wallet and the available spacein your car’s dashboard. Most vehicles have

space allocated for the radio.This translates

mm) wide and a height of either two or four

a reasonably sized multipurpose video screen

for an iPod or phone.Almost every aftermarket car-audio system

-

player.Many have specific inputs for the ubiq-uitous iPod/iPhone connector. Some have a

and control and/or charge portable electron-ics items.

Aso-calledBluetoothinterface isan increas-ingly common way to make and receivemobile phone calls on a hands-free basis,albeit with varying levels of compatibilitydepending on the phone and the unit itself.

allow only phone conversations,while costli-er versions are capable of much more,includ-ing full control and playback of audio fromyour phone.Top models utilize remote micro-phones for crystal-clear phone conversationsand even to afford voice-command operationof other functions.

Some units further incorporate a wireless

video from a smartphone, or use a specialmobile data receiver that can turn a car into a

-nect one or more other devices, such as alaptop or tablet computer to the Internet.

to play video or view web pages in the dash-board while a vehicle is moving.

backside on a cold morning having a heatedseat is a feature you’ll want to keep.All youneed here is an aftermarket cushion that sits

atop your car seat and plugs into a standard

unpleasant, they’re easily removable duringwarmer seasons. Or you can switch to onethat circulates cool air to make a summer ridemore enjoyable.

Here, paying a higher price gets you alarger warm area and more precise con-trol, even a massageand added back sup-port. It’s a good ideato ensure your car’selectrical circuit andfuse is capable ofwhat could be a sig-nificant power draw,however. Many also

adapter for alternateuse with an office orhome chair.

behindyourcarwhenbackingupcan literallysave a life. Small cars hide pets and tricycle-

block large swaths of rearward vision.Severalvehicles now offer backup cameras, oftenbundled with a costly navigation system that

possible to equip most vehicles with a similardevice, although effectiveness and appear-ance vary widely with price. A basic do-it-

Many variables improve a system’s effective-ness. If your car is already equipped with abuilt-in monitor or an aftermarket display

device, there may be an inputfor a camera-only system.Youcanreplaceyourcar’srearviewmirror with one that incorpo-rates a monitor that activateswhen the transmission in shift-ed into reverse. And as withnew cars, some aftermarketsystems combine a rearview

functions.Some systems incor-porate an audio transmittingfunction,which can be usefulfor backing into tight spaceswhile someone outside thecar gives directions.

Pay attention to theseimportant features: a widerviewing angle will reduceblind spots; the size and qual-ity of the monitor will provide

better precision; lights or “night vision”tures will allow you to see in darknCamera positioning is important to providclear image in inclement weather.

The highest quality models are incorpoed into audio/video systems and require p

ease installation,but viewing quality tendsbe inconsistent.

beeping more insistently the closer the frand/or rear of a car gets to another vehicleobstruction. The warning tone tells youobjects you may not see regardless of whyour vision is focused.They’re more affoable than having a backup camera and viddisplay installed. Some systems sell for w

recommended.

for automobile security systems, this featlets you start a car at the push of a butfrom inside your home or office.By the tiyou enter the vehicle, the heater or air cditioner will have the passenger compment’s temperature in your comfort zo

unless you’re comfortable modifyingwiring in your vehicle, professional instation is required.

ing the proper air pressure in a car’s tires cbe such a crucial yet neglected area of vehi

technology that alerts the driver when ais severely underinflated. A complete afmarket system requires sensors to be instalwithin each tire in addition to a display ulocated in the passenger compartment.Th

sional installation.You can save a few buon labor costs by having a monitor systinstalled at the same time you put on a nset of tires and/or wheels.

A less costly alternative:purchase a settire pressure monitoring valve caps, wh

replace the tires’ valve caps with units tincorporate a color-coded indicator tnotes at a quick glace whether a car’s tiare inflated correctly, slightly under inflaor significantly under inflated.The downsis these caps can be easily stolen and yhave to remember to look at all four focomplete check.

� CTW Features

By JIM GORZELANY CTW FEATURES

Keeping a car running for as long as possible is afinancial issue for most consumers.For others it’sa mission. Take Irv Gordon, a retired scienceteacher in East Patchogue, N.Y., who holds theGuinness world record for racking up the high-

est mileage in the same vehicle.At last count he’s clocked morethan 2,900,000 miles on theVolvo 1800 S coupe he purchasedback in 1966 and is aiming for a cool 3 million.

Trivia buffs know theVolvo 1800 S as Roger Moore’s ride ofchoice as adventurer SimonTemplar in theTV series“The Saint”

back when the car was new.But you don’t need divine interven-tion to wring the most miles possible out of your automotiveinvestment.“Today’s cars are built to last as long as 250,000miles with simple routine care,”says noted car-care expert BobWeber, an ASE-certified technician in Purcellville, Md., whowrites about cars and car care.

The road to 250,000 miles begins with following the auto-maker’s maintenance schedule to the letter. Weber suggestsheeding a manufacturer’s so-called“severe use”schedule,whichincludes more frequent oil changes. By definition it applies to

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

those who frequently drive in stop-and-gotraffic,live in extremely hot or cold climatesor dusty areas,or who tow a trailer – all inall, the majority of motorists.

Make frequent checks of the car’s fluids– including engine oil, coolant and brake,power steering and transmission fluids –and top them off as necessary.Your car’sowner’s manual will show where and howto check them.If any fluid levels are chron-ically low,have the car examined by a tech-nician.“Although it may not be called out inthe owner’s manual or be required to main-tain the warranty, changing transmission,differential and brake fluids every 100,000miles or less can extend these components’lives,”saysWeber.

Check the battery fluid level at least oncea month according to instructions in theowner’s manual. If the fluid level is low,topit off only with distilled water.Keep the ter-minals clear of corrosion to ensure a goodconnection using a soft wire brush dippedin ammonia or baking soda,then flush withclear water.Inspect the hoses and belts regu-larly and have them replaced whenever theyappear cracked,brittle or frayed.

Pay attention to the way your car drives.Take it to the repair shop if it’s makingstrange sounds, is becoming difficult tostart, is handling or braking oddly, is over-heating or otherwise isn’t operating asexpected. Undue procrastination may leadto higher repair bills down the road.

Take time to ensure that your car agesgracefully from an aesthetic point of view.“Take pride and care in your vehicle’sappearance,”Weber says.“Regular washingand occasional waxing not only keeps thefinish looking good,it prevents rust and cor-rosion.Vacuuming the interior prevents dirtfrom acting as tiny knives to ruin fabrics.”

Unfortunately,even a meticulously main-

tained car or truck will need to visit therepair shop from time to time as the milespile up. Batteries, tires and brake compo-nents,for example,all wear out after only afew years. Bigger-ticket items that usuallyneed replacement at or near the 100,000-mile point often include an engine’s timingbelt,fuel pump,water pump,alternator andstarter, as well as the vehicle’s muffler andexhaust pipes, power-steering pump anduniversal or CV joint.As a car approaches its“golden years,” it’s a good idea to budgeteach year for such repairs to keep a car run-ning in top condition.

Finally, ensure your driving habits don’tworkagainstyourcar’s longevity.“Accelerateslowly and anticipate your stops to brakegently to prevent accelerated wear andtear,”Weber says.“Beating up on your carcan really take its toll.”

� CTW Features

910-684-101010910 Hwy 15-501 (28387) • Southern Pines, NC 28388

www.pinehurstnissanonline.com

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By LINDSEY ROMAIN CTW FEATURES

Bryan Fuller follows one rule for routine maintenance: keep it simple. “I want to get it done and I don’t want to spend my whole life doing it.”

When Fuller’s not fiddling with vehicles on TV – he overhauled a car in less than seven days on the popular TLC show “Overhaulin’,” co-hosted Speed TV’s “Two Guys Garage” for four and a half years and builds bikes on “Café Racer TV” on Discovery’s Velocity! – he creates custom cars and motorcycles at his Atlanta shop, Fuller Hot Rods. Here, his best practical maintenance advice to keep cars in shape and looking good.

Fuller’s a big fan of car clay, a detailing product that removes brake dust and sur-face contaminants that can eventually oxi-dize and mar the car’s paint.

Car clay works a little bit like skin exfo-liation. The clay, which can be purchased as a bar, is applied to the exterior of the car prior to polishing and waxing. “Using the clay is like night and day,”Fuller says.

There’s an aisle full of spray-on “instant detailers” that can be used on wet or dry surfaces. The products give a gloss to a car’s exterior, leaving a finish that repels dirt. “It’s like washing your car in between washes,” says Fuller. “You just spray it onto your car and wipe it off. It’s a good way to keep you from having to do a full wash too often.”

An oil change may sound like a no-brainer, but many drivers neglect this rou-tine task. Fuller says it’s important to make sure it’s done every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Patrolling a vehicle’s belts is another easy step in heading off what could be a very big problem. The belts, found in the front of the engine, operate the fan, water pump, alter-nator and air conditioner. When they wear down, those features will malfunction. “A lot of belts may not look like they’re worn out,” says Fuller. “But it can really make a big dif-ference. Basically, everything in your car runs off that one belt.”

Fuller has a simple rule for knowing when to buy and install new wipers:

“If you don’t feel like you’re changing them often, then it’s not often enough.” Six months is the maximum lifespan, he says. He suggests claying the windshield to remove the residue that roughs up wipers.

Fuller rotates his tires every 10,000 miles. He also recommends a spin balance, where the car is mounted and the wheels are spun by machine to determine the amount of weight that should be applied to the rims.

Have the trans fluid checked at the next oil change. Trans fluid is the liquid in the car that acts as a lubricant for all the mov-ing parts in the transmission. Neglecting a trans fluid change means shortening the lifespan of the transmission. Check the car manual for mileage guidelines.

© CTW Features

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D EMore Than Just a Tire Store

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2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

o those who feel a vacationisn't complete unless the fam-ily pet comes along, you'renot alone. The U.S. Travel As-sociation says that 49 percent

of Americans feel the pet is just anothermember of the family and 18 percent ofU.S. travelers plan to take their pets alongthe next time they travel. Canada, Australia,New Zealand and the United States havesoftened laws regarding international travelwith a companion animal. With the PetPassport Scheme, or PETS, individuals maytravel freely with their pets to member coun-tries on approved carriers. Some proceduresinclude certification of rabies vaccinationand the animal's microchip or tattoonumber.Car trips are common forms of travel

with a companion animal in tow. Whilemany pets are easygoing, there are somewho are unaccustomed to traveling withtheir owners and may even balk at ridingalong. Acclimating and protecting your petfor travel will require a little patience andsome pointers.

Secure the petJust as you would buckle up when entering

the car, so should you buckle up a pet. It isimportant to ensure the animal is not a mov-ing target around the car should an accidentoccur. Not only could you risk injury to thepet, but you also risk injury to yourself ifthe animal becomes a projectile.Even if an accident does not occur, a jit-

tery pet, or one who is content to jumpfrom back seat into the front, could prove adistraction while driving. He or she couldalso bump into the gear shift or get stuckunder the gas or brake pedal. It is much bet-ter to keep the pet secured.Pets may travel in a well-ventilated carrier.

Larger dogs may need to be belted into thecar with a special dog harness. There are

also barrier screens and gates that can be in-stalled, typically in SUVs, to restrict the pet.

AcclimationSome pets just do not enjoy being placed

in a carrier or riding in a car. They may needsome coaxing and practice to become com-fortable if a trip is planned. The ASPCAsuggests getting the pet used to a longer tripby taking a series of short trips first over thecourse of a few days or weeks. With eachtrip, gradually increase time spent in the car.It may help to bring along a pet toy or

blanket that is soothing to the animal, so heor she associates the car with a safe place,just like home.Even after several attempts to acclimate

your pet to the idea of a car trip, the animalmay still not be happy about the idea. Talkto a veterinarian about other strategies or

whether a mild sedative could make thetravel easier.

Safety tipsAlthough many pet owners are aware of

certain dos and don'ts when it comes totraveling with a pet, many still engage inbehavior that could be dangerous to theanimal.One of the common offenses is letting the

pet ride with his or her head outside of thewindow. While this may seem like heaven tothe dog or cat, this puts the pet at risk ofbeing injured by flying objects, including de-bris in the eyes. It can also increase the riskof the animal falling out of themoving vehicle.Another mistake many people make is

leaving the pet inside of a car -- even for ashort duration of time. The ASPCAwarns

that even with the windows open, a parkedcar can rapidly heat up and heatstroke canoccur. A similar thing takes place in the win-ter with the car getting much too cold. Ifyou anticipate having to make stops, be sureto go where you can take the pet out andalong with you.

Comfort and careAn animal out of his or her environment

or element could become skittish. Try tokeep a pet's feeding schedule as close to nor-mal as possible. This will minimize thechances of discomfort or even digestive ag-gravation. Bring along bottled water or tapwater from home because drinking waterfrom an unfamiliar area could result in un-wanted digestive distress, which could proveuncomfortable for pet and owner alike.As an added precaution, you may want to

invest in rubberized floor liners and water-proof seat covers, says the ASPCA. Thishelps if the animal gets carsick or has an ac-cident. Removable seat covers can alsoprove advantageous for collecting fur andkeeping the interior of the car less messythan need be.

IdentificationIt is important to always carry proper

identification for your pet, as well as docu-mentation of vaccinations. For those whohave not yet microchipped their companionanimal, now may be the time to do so. Themicrochip is a very small device implantedunder the skin of the pet, usually by thescruff of the neck. It will transmit contactinformation when a specialized transmitteris waved over the microchip.There's also the old-fashioned method of

having your dog or cat collared with an IDtag. Using this in conjunction with a leashand harness will help reduce the chances oflosing your pet while on the road.

T

Safe Ways to Take Petson the Road

Stashing your toy-sizedpooch in your purse is nota safe way to travel with acompanion animal.

By JIM GORZELANY CTW FEATURES

Often overlookedand underesti-mated, a car’stires – withwhat amounts

to four patches of rubber eachsmaller than a dollar bill meetingthe pavement – are responsiblefor accelerating, steering andstopping a vehicle that canweigh 3,000 pounds or more.

There’s too much riding onyour tires not to learn all you canbefore you buy.Start here.

Tires that have been damagedirreparablymustbereplaced,ofcourse.There are more subtle signs.It’s time togo shopping for a new set of tires assoon as a series of horizontal warningbands begins to appear across thetread. You can see how close you’regetting by placing a penny into a tire’stread groove. If you can see the verytop of Lincoln’s head the treads arebecoming dangerously shallow.

While it’s prudent to purchase thesame type,size and brand that originallycame with the car,astute shoppers cancustomize the performance of theirvehicles in certain respects by choosinga different type of tire:

that are engineered to enhance tractionin rain and snow while maintainingacceptable levels of ride comfort. Manyvehicles come standard with this type oftire.These are different from dedicatedmud-and-snow tires that feature large,deeptreadblocks toprovidethegreatesttraction over loose surfaces and are typi-cally recommended for winter-use onrear-wheel-drive vehicles.

harderrubbercompoundandputmoretread on the pavement to help maxi-mize a car’s cornering abilities. Manysports cars come equipped with high-performance tires; adding a set to anycar will improve its handling.Unfortunately,they afford a rougher andlouder ride and wear out quicker thanstandard tires.They also suffer poor wetweather traction,which is why they’re

performance tires should be matchedto a vehicle’s top speed as stated in theowner’s manual. It helps to know youralphabet when shopping for high-per-

-cation code indicates that the tire canmaintain a maximum safe speed of upto 112 mph,aT-rated tire is certified to

up to 130 mph,aV will take you to 149mph and Z-rated tires will maintaintheir integrity at speeds over 149 mph.

-mise for those who want to obtainnominally better handling without sac-

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

Bridgestone Ecopia 180

rificing traction on wet or snowy roads orsuffering a too-harsh ride in the process.

-monly used on hybrids and other high-mileage models and can help improve acar’s fuel economy by about six percent.They’re made with thinner sidewalls, shal-lower tread depths and specific tread com-pounds to minimize the force required tomake the tire roll.They can produce moreroad noise than standard tires,however,andmay not be available in a given line or forspecific makes and models.

“run flats” – feature self-supporting wallsthat enable a vehicle to be driven atreduced speeds at limited distances if punc-tured or otherwise deflated. On the onehand they preclude the need to carry aspare tire,on the other they usually delivera firmer ride than standard tires.By contrast,so-called“self-sealing”tires are made with aspecial lining that’s designed to seal mostsmall punctures.

that are the same type as the ones you’rereplacing, there may be considerable differ-ences in quality from one brand to another– most importantly how well they’ll performunder extreme conditions. Fortunately, the

requires that each tire sold in the U.S. berated according to a set of anticipated perfor-mance criteria called the Uniform TireQuality Gradings.These quantify a line’s rela-tive capabilities according to tread wear,traction and heat resistance.

Individualproductgradingsareembossedon the sidewall of every tire and a databaseof ratings for all current lines can be found

-ic basis; higher numbers indicate longer

can’t be used as specific mileage projections(since the climate, use of road salt and thematerials used to pave roads vary from areato area), they can be used to compare therelative longevity of one tire line versusanother.Thus, a tire rated at 200 could beexpected to last twice as long as one rated100.

ability to stop a given vehicle on wet pave-

traction, while C-rated products meet theminimum performance standards requiredby law.

on a three-letter scale,and grade a tire’s resis-tance to damage sustained as a result ofoverheatingduringsustainedhighway-speed

minimum accepted performance.

It’s essential to ensure your tires are in topshape at all times via regular air pressurechecks and visual inspections. Get in thehabit of noticing and caring for your tires:

(at least once a month), including the spare.

a long trip.

foreign objects, or other signs of trauma.Remove bits of glass and other foreignobjects wedged in the tread.

valve cap.

owner’s manual for the maximum recom-

towing a trailer,remember that some of theweight of the loaded trailer is transferred tothe towing vehicle.

slowing down if you have to go over a pot--

ning over curbs, and try not to strike the

� CTW Features

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

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The average age of vehicles on the roadhas reached an all-time high of 10.8years,according to the market researchfirm R.L.Polk in Southfield,Mich.Cost-conscious consumers are choosing to

keep their existing cars and trucks rather than trad-ing them in for new models.Unfortunately,as arecent Consumer Reports survey revealed,that alsomeans many drivers are postponing needed repairsor maintenance as a money-saving measure.

Delaying service not only represents false econo-my,it can compromise safety.The car-care experts atAAA Motor Club in Heathrow,Fla.,believe the bestway to save money over the life of a vehicle is tochoose a high-quality,full-service repair shop andallow them do all of the necessary maintenance andrepair work.“This helps prevent breakdowns andoften saves money by allowing drivers to make asmall repair now rather than a much bigger one

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

later,”says John Nielsen,AAA’s director ofautomotive repair.

But making the decision to bring in acar for service is only half the battle.To getthe most for their maintenance and repairdollars,consumers need to know how tobest deal with an automotive technicianso that a trip to the shop won’t ultimatelyturn sour.According to an informal surveyof independent mechanics and repairexperts conducted by the online auto-ser-vice resourceAutoMD.com,here’s a list ofdos to follow and don’ts to avoid whentaking a car in for maintenance or repairs.

The better a consumer is able to con-vey to a mechanic what’s wrong with hisor her vehicle,the easier it is for a techni-cian to diagnose and fix the problem.It’s agood idea to write down ahead of timewhat ails your ride,noting specific sounds,sensations,leaks and smells,and when andhow often they occur.What happened justbefore the car stopped running;how did itfunction the day before it didn’t start?Alsonote when the vehicle was last brought infor service,as today’s problem may berelated to last month’s repairs.

When it comes to auto repairs,quick,cheap and good are usually mutuallyexclusive terms.Plan to leave a car in theshop for the better part of a day to obtainnecessary service and be prepared to paythe going rate for parts and labor.Even ifit’s a quick fix,realize there may be severalother cars ahead of yours in the mechan-ic’s service queue.Ask up front how longthe car will need to be in the shop andarrange for transportation to and from the

repair facility.And always get a cost esti-mate before allowing the mechanic to pro-ceed with repairs or service.

Don’t drop off a dirty or cluttered vehi-cle.Not only is this common courtesy,itcan affect the quality of a repair.Tidy upyour ride before bringing it in for serviceand be sure to clear out the back seat andtrunk of items like strollers,golf clubs andconstruction equipment.The mechanicmay need to remove them to access a partor perform a specific repair,or they mayweigh down the vehicle to an extent thataffects the car’s performance.

Be sure to leave phone numbers withthe shop where you can be reached andrespond promptly.If the technician isn’table to contact you to approve a repair,the car will sit and remain unattended forthat much longer.Likewise,you’ll want toknow that the car is ready and how muchthe service will cost before heading backto the shop.

Just about all mechanics who respond-ed to theAutoMD.com service survey dis-liked customers hovering over them whilethey worked.While it’s appropriate tospend time with your car and the mechan-ic to explain the problem,it’s distractingand can be dangerous to remain thereafter the mechanic has started working.Ifyou’ll be hanging around for a diagnosis orquick service,take a seat in the waitingroom,grab a cup of coffee and let a profes-sional do his or her job.

� CTW Features

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Proper car maintenance meansa car should look as good as itruns.A car that appears nearlyshowroom-fresh can help savemoney by making the idea of

buying a new car seem frivolous. Plus, ameticulously kept vehicle will bring inadditional cash when it finally comes timeto trade it in.

“Keeping your vehicle clean not only

protects your valuable vehicle investment,it also fosters a sense of pride and accom-plishment,” says Rich White, executivedirector of the Car Care Council inBethesda,Md.“It’s a task that takes very lit-tle money or effort,but has huge returns.”

What kind of returns are we talkingabout?According to Kelley Blue Book data,trade-in value for a 2008 Toyota Camrythat’s in“very good”condition (only minorwear or visible defects on the body andinterior) will be about 20 percent higher

than trade-in value for a comparable ver-sion that’s in only“fair”condition,with thepaint, body and/or interior in need ofreconditioning.

At the least, cosmetic car care shouldinvolve a thorough washing and vacuum-ing on an as-needed basis. Purists avoidautomated car washes in favor of handwashes.You can do the job yourself in ashady spot with little more than a gardenhose,bucket,sponge,towels and car wash-ing solution.Use mild detergent that’s sold

as a concentrate,often with wax added tohelp maintain a shine.

Still, cars should typically be given aproper coat of wax to help fully protectthe finish from harmful UV rays and theelements at least once a year, or whenwater no longer beads on the paint treat-ment.Various kinds of products are offeredin this category including liquid and spray-on waxes in addition to the traditionalpaste variety. Some cleaner/waxes includea mild abrasive to help remove slightscratches and oxidation in the paint sur-face. While most name-brand waxes willsuffice,enthusiasts often sing the praises of

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

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pure carnauba wax for the dazzlingly deepshine it affords, but it’s costly, is more diffi-cult to apply and tends not to last as long assilicone-based products.

Beyond that, any auto parts or depart-ment store stocks a sizeable assortment ofproducts that are specially fabricated tohelp maintain a new-car appearance.Popular brands include 3M,Armor-All,EagleOne,Mothers,Meguiars,Simoniz andTurtleWax. Here’s a quick rundown of what’savailable:

used to lift stubborn grime, tree sap andbug residue from a car’s finish. It shouldn’tharm the paint if applied correctly,but it’s agood idea to re-treat the area with waxonce its cleaned.

a kit that includes sanding and buffingitems and the lens polishing chemicals,thisis used to bring yellowed plastic headlightlenses back to their original transparency.Ittakes a bit of time and effort to accomplish,however.

gives a clean car a quick shine.It’s great forremoving post-washing water spots, dustand fingerprints, and is commonly used tofreshen the appearance of cars on displayat auto shows and exhibitions.

and shine plastic,rubber and vinyl surfacesinside and out, including dashboards, tiresand trim items, this spray-on product alsohelps protect against fading, drying andcracking caused by UV rays. Go easy on it,however, as overuse can make surfaceslook greasy and feel slippery.

help restore a shine to weathered finishesand remove minor scratches from a car’spaint. It’s mildly abrasive, so it should beused sparingly.A specific“clear-coat polish-ing compound” should be used on recentcars that feature a top coat of clear paint.

that’s used to help restore badly dulled andneglected finishes on older cars, it shouldbe used with caution so as not to removethe paint completely.As a bonus, it worksgreat to help buff out otherwise disablingscratches in video game discs.

in a car’s exterior treatment can be elimi-nated using this specially applied touch-uppaint.It usually comes in an applicator witha special tip used to fill in the scratches.Matching the exact color may be difficult,however, and application does require asteady hand.

tires a wet-look shine and protects the rub-ber compound against fading and cracking.

use of spray-on cleaners for carpeting andfabric-covered seats is essential to preventaccelerated wear caused by dirt particlesgrinding their way into the fibers. Thosewith cars equipped with leather seats andtrim should use a specific leather cleaning/conditioning spray for those surfaces.

not damage the surfaces of painted andclear-coated alloy wheels, this productremoves grime,grit and brake dust. It’s notessential for cars having ordinary steelwheels or hubcaps,however.

� CTW Features

While there are no hard statistics on thenumber of people who own GPSdevices,thousands of people have either a GPSde-vice that comes pre-equipped in a car thatthey purchased or a stand-alone device thatwas bought after the fact. These devicescome pre-loaded with maps that work withsatellites in space. The GPS receiver figuresout the distance to each and uses this infor-mation to deduce the location of the devicein a process called trilateration.GPS devices have made paper maps obso-

lete for many people. While GPS devicescan be very convenient, especially on roadtrips, there are some tips to keep in mind.

* Place the GPSdevice where it won't ob-struct your vision or take your eyes off ofthe road for a good deal of time.

* Don't treat the GPS as if it is infallible.Even with map updates and other acces-sories, a GPS can still make mistakes. Usecommon sense, especially where it wouldseem the GPS is guiding you inthe wrong way.

*Do not play with the controls while operat-ing the car. If you need to adjust somethingon the GPS, do so only after pulling over toa safe area.

* Have a general idea where you are goingso you'll know if the GPS is potentiallyguiding you in the wrong direction and canmaneuver in advance.

Today's drivers rely heavilyon GPS technology, or globalpositioning system devices.GPS has revolutionized theway people drive and usemaps and directions

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Drivers who anteed up a premium to purchase fuel-sipping new hybrids and electronic vehicles can shrug at reports that

gas prices this year will reach all-time highs. The rest of us are not so lucky. There is hope, however, for improving the fuel economy in the gas-guzzler in your driveway.

“The biggest thing is to drive conserva-tively,” says Larry Carley, an ASE certified technician who runs the auto-help site aa1.com. Aggressive driving, which includes fast starts and stops, can reduce fuel econ-omy. Drive sensibly and observe speed limits. Use cruise control on the highway.

Gregg Laskoski, senior petroleum ana-lyst with gasbuddy.com, a website dedi-cated to locating cheap gas prices in cit-ies throughout the U.S. and Canada, offers these tips to keep costs low:

Keep your tires properly inflated. Check tire pressure regularly. “If people have tires that are underinflated they are giving away fuel economy,”Laskoski says. Not only that, but keeping your tires underinflated will cause more wear on them and will force car owners to have them replaced sooner. You can find infor-mation on the proper tire pressure for your car in your owner’s manual.

Check your wheel alignment once a year. If the tires are not properly aligned, you could have tires working against each other, which will reduce fuel economy.

Perform regular vehicle maintenance. Read the manual and follow the recom-mendations.

Get the junk out of the trunk. Unnecessary weight in the car will reduce performance on the road. People tend to use the trunk of a car as a storage unit, Laskoski says. Removing the weight can immediately improve gas mileage.

Consolidate your trips. As gas prices climb, most drivers react by combining errands to be more efficient and to save fuel. Make a habit of planning the week ahead to cut down your mileage, saving time and gas.

Consider your use of air-conditioning. Many drivers unthinkingly flip it on, but air-conditioning puts a bigger load on your engine and burns more fuel. Note, though, that it’s a common misconcep-tion that lowering your windows is more cost-effective than air-conditioning. When driving on the open roads, open windows increase aerodynamic drag, lowering your fuel economy.

Look for fuel rewards programs. Certain retail and supermarket chains offer discounts on gas purchases, says Laskoski. Shopping at particular loca-tions for your needs can cut expenses when the time comes to fill up.

© CTW Features

2 0 1 2 C A R C A R E G U I D E

FordPhillips

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uto insurance is necessary foranyone who drives. Thoughsome places allow motoriststo drive without insurance,doing so is an unnecessary

risk, one that could prove costly should anaccident occur.When purchasing auto insurance, many

drivers hope to save as much money as pos-sible. That's understandable, as many driversgo years without ever filing a claim, givingsome the feeling that they're paying forsomething they will never use. However,when an accident does occur, paying for

those premiums proves well worth it.While it's important to get the best rates andnot overpay for auto insurance, there's moreto shopping for auto insurance than simplyfinding the cheapest policy. Thefollowing are a few things drivers shouldconsider when shopping for a new autoinsurance policy.

* Determine the amount of coverageyou need. How much auto insurance cover-age a driver needs depends on what the locallaw requires. Some areas, including denselypopulated cities with more drivers on the

road, tend to require more coverage thanothers because the risk of accident isgreater. In addition, some places require allmotorists purchase personal injury protec-tion, or PIP, which pays for a driver's med-ical expenses as well as any lost wages oradditional costs that occur as a result of anaccident. PIP is not required everywhere,but motorists should weight its pros andcons if they live in a region where PIP is notmandatory.The amount of coverage a driver needs is

relative, but Consumer Reports recom-mends adequate coverage for bodily injuryliability is $100,000 per person and $300,000per accident, and an additional $100,000 forproperty damage.For drivers leasing or financing a vehicle,

the leasing or financing agreement will typi-cally spell out the minimum coverage re-quired, and drivers can choose to increasethat coverage if they feel it's necessary.

* Explore payment options. Drivers whowant to reduce their insurance costs withoutreducing coverage should explore their pay-ment options. In many instances, driverswho choose to make annual or bi-annualpayments instead of monthly installmentscan save some money is so doing. If yourcurrent insurance provider does not offersuch an alternative, then shop around for acompany that does.

* Re-examine your driving history.Speeding and traffic tickets might sting ini-tially, but they will disappear from yourrecord over time. When shopping for autoinsurance, re-examine your driving record.

In the United States and Canada, accessingthese records can typically be done by con-tacting the local branch of the Departmentof Motor Vehicles. If an old speeding ortraffic ticket is close to being removed fromyour record, wait until those disappear be-fore purchasing a new policy.

* Shop around. Drivers often lament pay-ing so much for auto insurance, a safety netfew drivers use but all must pay for. Despitethat, many motorists continue to overpayfor their insurance because the popular mis-conception is that shopping for a better pol-icy is inconvenient and tedious. But theInternet has made it much easier for con-sumers to shop for a better auto insurance pol-icy. When shopping for quotes online, haveyour vehicle registration and identificationnumber as well as your driver history on handso the quote is as accurate as possible. Printout each quote and then compare them to findthe best deal. If another company is offering adeal significantly better than your existing pol-icy, discuss that with your current provider,who might match the rate to keep you as a pol-icy holder.

* Shop for discounts.Another thing to considerwhen shopping for an auto insurance policy is theavailability of discounts.Many companies rewardpolicy holders for good behavior, such as drivingwithout an accident and earning good grades inschool.Other companies even offer a one-timeaccident amnesty, forgiving drivers for their firstaccident by not raising their rates when anaccident occurs. These discounts can add up tosubstantial savings over the course of thepolicy, so do your homework.

A

Things to ConsiderBefore BuyingAuto Insurance

MORGAN’SAUTO REPAIR

((991100)) 994444--11557700109 South Sandhills Blvd. • Aberdeen, NC 28315

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By LINDSEY ROMAIN CTW FEATURES

Bryan Fuller follows one rule for routine maintenance: keep it simple. “I want to get it done and I don’t want to spend my whole life doing it.”

When Fuller’s not fiddling with vehicles on TV – he overhauled a car in less than seven days on the popular TLC show “Overhaulin’,” co-hosted Speed TV’s “Two Guys Garage” for four and a half years and builds bikes on “Café Racer TV” on Discovery’s Velocity! – he creates custom cars and motorcycles at his Atlanta shop, Fuller Hot Rods. Here, his best practical maintenance advice to keep cars in shape and looking good.

Fuller’s a big fan of car clay, a detailing product that removes brake dust and sur-face contaminants that can eventually oxi-dize and mar the car’s paint.

Car clay works a little bit like skin exfo-liation. The clay, which can be purchased as a bar, is applied to the exterior of the car prior to polishing and waxing. “Using the clay is like night and day,”Fuller says.

There’s an aisle full of spray-on “instant detailers” that can be used on wet or dry surfaces. The products give a gloss to a car’s exterior, leaving a finish that repels dirt. “It’s like washing your car in between washes,” says Fuller. “You just spray it onto your car and wipe it off. It’s a good way to keep you from having to do a full wash too often.”

An oil change may sound like a no-brainer, but many drivers neglect this rou-tine task. Fuller says it’s important to make sure it’s done every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Patrolling a vehicle’s belts is another easy step in heading off what could be a very big problem. The belts, found in the front of the engine, operate the fan, water pump, alter-nator and air conditioner. When they wear down, those features will malfunction. “A lot of belts may not look like they’re worn out,” says Fuller. “But it can really make a big dif-ference. Basically, everything in your car runs off that one belt.”

Fuller has a simple rule for knowing when to buy and install new wipers:

“If you don’t feel like you’re changing them often, then it’s not often enough.” Six months is the maximum lifespan, he says. He suggests claying the windshield to remove the residue that roughs up wipers.

Fuller rotates his tires every 10,000 miles. He also recommends a spin balance, where the car is mounted and the wheels are spun by machine to determine the amount of weight that should be applied to the rims.

Have the trans fluid checked at the next oil change. Trans fluid is the liquid in the car that acts as a lubricant for all the mov-ing parts in the transmission. Neglecting a trans fluid change means shortening the lifespan of the transmission. Check the car manual for mileage guidelines.

© CTW Features

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