car care 2011

THE VOICE OF VERMILION PARISH �• FOR HOME DELIVERY OF THE ABBEVILLE MERIDIONAL PLEASE CALL 337-893-4223

A SUPPLEMENT OF the Abbeville Meridional and VermilionToday.com

2009 GMC 1500 Crew CabSLT, 4x4, Low Miles

Must See!Since 1966

“Cleanest Cars in Acadiana”

BB’S AUTO SALES(337) 893-1790

2311 Vet. Mem. Dr., Hwy 14 By Pass, Abbeville

SINCE 1920

937- 5818

- 2011 Car Care Edition The Abbeville Meridional - Sunday, March 13, 2011

Credit record is vital to auto loans, insurance ratesEven a momentary bout

of forgetfulness will not matter when missing a payment. All that will show up on the credit report is a missed payment, not the reasons for it, no matter how valid or innocent those reasons are.

How much of an indi-vidual�’s available credit is being used also has a strong impact on that person�’s credit score. In general, it�’s best to keep credit use to less than 30 percent of available credit, and many nancial advisors actually suggest keeping it closer to 10 percent.

An individual should never �“max out�” a credit card unless that individual is certain he or she can pay the balance in full by the time the next bill is due. Establishing a 10 percent threshold can allow indi-viduals to avoid the massive credit debts many before them have suffered through.

* Consider a secured credit card. Secured credit cars require careful and meticulous research on the borrower�’s part, but can be an effective means of restor-ing a credit rating for those with a bad or even minimal credit history.

A secured credit card requires the borrower to deposit money with a lender, and the credit limit is typically the amount of money deposited. Be careful, however, as certain secured lenders have hidden fees and interest rates that can be quite large. Those who are already a member or eligible for membership in a credit union should look into a secured credit card from their union, as credit unions are typically trustworthy sources for secured cards.

* Think outside the card. A credit rating isn�’t entirely based on how an individual handles his or her credit card payments. Installment loans, if paid on time, can be a boon to an individual�’s credit rating.

Installment loans can include auto loans, personal loans or even mortgages. Those with relatively short credit histories might nd it dif cult to secure an install-ment loan, especially one with a good interest rate. However, individuals who have had credit for a year or so and have made their payments on time while car-rying a responsible balance might want to consider

As the economy begins to rebound, so, too, are many of the individuals who were negatively affected by its de-cline. Be it because of layoffs or investments that steeply declined in value, many people across the country took signi cant nancial hits in 2009.

As the calendar gets set to turn into a new year, lots of people are seeking ways to better manage their nancial affairs in the hopes they�’ll be more prepared should another recession rear its ugly head in the fu-ture. One of the best ways to prepare is to manage credit properly, which can be done in a number of ways.

* Know why your rat-ing is going up or down. Many people are aware they have a credit score, they just aren�’t aware what that score is or how it�’s determined.

Credit bureaus such as Experian and Equifax can provide individuals with their credit score, but that�’s only half the process. The other half is why that score is what it is. The two most in uential factors in a credit score are an individual�’s payment history and how much of their available credit that individual uses.

Paying on time is arguably the most im-portant part of achiev-ing and maintaining a good credit score. A single missed payment can have a longterm negative impact on an individual�’s credit score. Individuals can set up automatic payments so they never forget to pay a bill.

applying for an install-ment loan in the future. Demonstrating an ability to make loan payments on a monthly basis can only provide a signi cant boost to a credit rating, helping individuals secure bigger loans, such as a mortgage, down the road.

* Ask for help. While it might seem as though a co-signer would not be ideal for someone hoping to boost their credit rating, it actually will, so long as the individual makes the pay-ments on time and pays off the loan responsibly.

Parents often co-sign loans for their children, al-lowing children to use their high credit rating as a step-ping stone to establish their own credit history. However, borrowers must realize that missing a payment on a loan that has a co-signer

negatively impacts the co-signer�’s credit score as well as their own. That reality emphasizes the importance of paying on time and, for the co-signer, making a wise decision as for whom it is they�’re willing to co-sign a loan for.

* Open a bank account. Lenders want to see stabili-ty before handing out credit. That�’s especially true in the current economy, when lend-ers who made irresponsible loans to unquali ed bor-rowers either ended up out of business or in need of a bailout. Individuals hoping to restore a credit rating or build a credit history should open a checking and savings account as a means of illus-trating to lenders that they are stable and worthy of the trust and responsibility that comes with credit.

�“Let us keep you running!�” 2005 W. Summers Drive

Abbeville 893-7569

www.terrysdiesel.com

TERRY’S DIESELREPAIR & SALES, LLC

The Abbeville Meridional - Sunday, March 13, 2011 2011 Car Care Edition -

Is there now a mass market for hybrid cars?

the fuel economy hybrids of-fer will no doubt appeal to more drivers looking to save money.

* Increased availability: A criticism many drivers had of hybrid cars was that they were not nearly as readily available as traditional gas-powered vehicles. However, with the auto industry bailouts, many expect the American automak-ers receiving those bailouts to focus on remaking their image and entering the hybrid market. That gures to make hybrid cars more available to buyers, which could in turn bring down their price tag as well.

* Possible discounts for purchase: While government-sponsored incentives for pur-chasing hybrid vehicles may or may not be available any longer, that does not necessarily mean there aren�’t discounts available to drivers for purchasing hy-brids. Some insurance compa-nies, for example, offer owners of hybrids discounts on their premiums. While this might not be the case with all companies, it�’s certainly worth researching before buying your next vehicle.

Disadvantages to HybridsLike anything, hybrid cars

are not perfect. Though they do boast numerous advantages, they also have their disadvan-

tages prospective buyers should be aware of.

* Sticker price: Should American automakers begin to produce more hybrids, the sticker prices for hybrids could possibly decrease as the market is lled with more options. How-ever, until that happens, hybrid models remain signi cantly more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts. For example, according to Honda�’s Web site, a 2009 gas-powered Honda Civic sedan has a base price of $15,505. The same model Civic sedan hybrid has a base price of $23,650.

* Gas: While fuel economy for hybrids is generally great, that�’s typically only for city driving. That�’s because highway driving does not offer the same bene ts, as the gas engine takes over when vehicles approach higher speeds. The gas engine also takes over as vehicles ac-celerate quickly, which could minimize the bene ts for ag-gressive drivers.

While research continues to advance the viability of hybrids, it�’s important for prospective buyers to consider both the pros and cons of hybrids before mak-ing a nal decision on their next vehicle.

For those who closely observe the auto industry and even those who don�’t, the consensus seems to be that major auto makers should include pro-ducing vehicles that are more environmentally friendly, and reducing the production of larger vehicles. But is there a large enough market for hybrids for everyone? And are hybrids suited for everyone�’s needs? To better answer that question, it�’s best to consider the pros and cons of hybrid cars.

Advantages to HybridsIn addition to being more

bene cial to the environment, hybrid cars boast other advan-tages as well.

* Better fuel economy: While fuel economy is obviously an environmental bene t, it�’s also a nancial one. As 2008 drew to a close and 2009 began, fuel prices were sinking. How-ever, that�’s a trend that many nancial forecasters expect to change as the year goes on. In the United States, for example, the recession has led to a de-creased demand for oil, lowering the price.

The Energy Information Ad-ministration has projected crude oil prices to remain relatively low in 2009, which in turn will keep gasoline prices low as well. However, according to Paul Ste-vens, a professor at the Royal Institute of International Affairs in the United Kingdom, that decrease in demand could also lead to a reduction in output, which could eventually send gas prices back over $2 per gallon and possibly close to $3 per gal-lon by the end of the year.

So how does this relate to hybrids? Should gas prices rise once again by the end of year,

Insurance costs can vary with teen drivers

Typically, young adults pay more for car insurance than anyone else under age 70 because they are considered the riskiest drivers on the road. While there is no way for young adults to speed up the aging process, that doesn’t mean they’re helpless in the face of high insurance premiums.

Among the more popular ways for young and even seasoned drivers to lower their rates include the following:

* take a defensive driver course* raise comprehensive and collision coverage deductibles* commute using public transportation and let the insurance com-

pany know* buy a home or renter’s policy with the same car insurance com-

pany* buy a safer carAnother way to save money on auto insurance is to purchase a

vehicle with front and side airbags, antilock brakes, automatic seat-belts, and daytime running lights.

If the consumer owns an older vehicle, it may be a good idea to drop the collision and comprehensive coverages from the policy because both coverages require the insured to pay a deductible in the event they fi le a claim, and in some cases that may be more than the car is worth.

Vehicle owners who were recently married or turned 25 years of age will also notice a considerable drop in auto insurance rates because insurance companies view married couples and people 25 and older as more “stable” and less of a risk.

Young adult drivers who live with their parents but don’t own their own car can save money by staying on their parents’ policy.


307 West Summers Dr. • 893-9966

THE KLEAN MACHINETHE KLEAN MACHINEHANDWASH ONLY & WAXHANDWASH ONLY & WAX

THE KLEAN MACHINETHE KLEAN MACHINEHANDWASH ONLY & WAXHANDWASH ONLY & WAX Since 1966, Willis Auto Sales Inc. has offered Clean Used Cars, Vans & Trucks to the

Acadiana area. The friendly sales staff has continued to earn a reputation of great sales & service.

Come by and seeCarl J. Meaux, Mike Faulk, or Doris Guidry

for your vehicle needs.Willis Auto Sales is home of Acadiana’s Cleanest

Used Cars!

2221 Charity St., Abbeville • 893-6120WILLIS AUTO SALES

2000 Dodge 4-WheelLeather, Loaded!

Maintenance practices should change with timesThough we�’re only one full

decade into the 21st century, the amount of change that has taken place in those 10 years is phenomenal.

Whereas the Internet was largely seen as something to play with a decade ago, it now serves to pay our bills, stay in touch with friends and even order our movie tickets or meals. But how we live our lives isn�’t the only way things have changed in the last 10 years. How we treat our vehicles has also changed dramatically.

Much of the conventional wisdom preached by our fathers and grandfathers with respect to vehicle main-tenance has fallen by the wayside in the 21st century, as manufacturers of both vehicles and vehicle mainte-nance products have changed the way they do business. AMSOIL INC., the industry

leader in synthetic motor oil, notes that many of these changes cannot only improve how our vehicles run, but save us some cash as well.

* Petroleum motor oils are no longer the gold standard. Many vehicle owners practice the same credo with respect to vehicle maintenance. That is, �“If it has worked in the past, stick with it.�” Advancements in automotive technology, however, have led many to abandon that credo, or at least to modify it.

Perhaps no technologi-cal advancement has done more to change how we view vehicle maintenance than the emergence of synthetic motor oil as a superior alternative to traditional petroleum mo-tor oil.

Once the industry stan-dard, petroleum motor oils�’ well-earned reputation for

forming sludge, gums and varnishes as they break down has led industry insiders and even weekend car enthusi-asts to embrace synthetic motor oils. Because of their ability to resist the stresses of high temperature oxida-tion and evaporation loss, synthetic motor oils are far more resistant to sludge and deposit formation, enabling vehicle engines to run more smoothly and offer greater fuel ef ciency.

* Cars can crack the 100,000 mile barrier and still be reliable. During the recession of 2009, many vehicle owners began looking at their cars and trucks as more long-term investments. Whereas the years leading up to the recession saw many vehicle owners trading their cars in after three or four years, the post-recession ve-hicle owner now wants more

bang for his buck.Fortunately, it�’s now

entirely possible to keep a car running strong for 100,000 miles or more. And many of the keys to doing so don�’t re-quire a trip to the mechanic. With the advancements in engine design, breakthroughs in engine metallurgy and the use of synthetic lubricants, motorists are now keeping their vehicles 24 percent longer than they were in 2002. Money not spent on new vehicles is money in the pocket.

* The vehicle mainte-nance industry wants to keep your car on the road. In the past year or so, much of America got its rst real glimpse into the American auto industry, and many did not like what they saw. Popu-lar auto lines Pontiac and Saturn were discontinued, and consumer con dence in

American auto makers con-tinued to wane.

One overlooked element, however, was the positive advancements made in the vehicle maintenance indus-try. Synthetic motor oils, for example, greatly enhance a vehicle�’s performance.

The uniform molecular structure of synthetic oil helps engines operate more ef ciently by reducing fric-tion and wear, improving performance in extreme tem-peratures and, best of all, by improving fuel economy.

So while conventional wisdom might infer the auto industry has regressed during the 21st century, the advancements made in auto-motive maintenance technol-ogy have enabled vehicles to perform better and last much longer, helping drivers save money while restoring their peace of mind.

Most expensive cars to insure listedWhile the company you

choose can infl uence how much you’ll be paying to insure your next vehicle, a host of other fac-tors can also make a difference in your bottom line. Those factors include personal driving history, the neighborhood in which you live and even how much you drive on a daily basis.

Another factor that can infl u-ence what you pay is the auto itself. Often, the type of vehicle you’re driving goes a long way to determining your premium.

Insure.com, an online re-source providing information to shoppers looking for auto, life, home, and health insurance, notes that the following vehicles proved the most expensive to insure in 2009.

1. Nissan GT-R: With a sticker price of nearly $80,000, it’s no surprise this fl ashy coup cost more than $2,500 to insure on av-erage. Its top speed of 193 miles

per hour (MPH) no doubt made prospective insurers tremble.

2. Dodge Viper SRT-10: An-other vehicle with a reputation for speed, the Viper SRT-10 cost drivers an average of just under $2,500 to insure.

3. BMW M6: Those consider-ing an M6 probably don’t care about the insurance, as the vehicle itself costs more than $100,000 to take home.

4. Ford Shelby GT500: Its sticker price of $43,000 makes it more realistic for many drivers, who can expect to pay nearly $2,200 per year to insure this muscle car.

5. Mercedes G-Class: Its curb weight of more than 5,500 lbs. might keep you safe in case of collision, but its average insur-ance cost of more than $2,000 won’t keep your wallet safe.

2011 Car Care Edition - The Abbeville Meridional - Sunday, March 13, 2011

Real service by real people.

*Louisiana Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Co.*Louisiana Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co.*Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Co.*Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co., Jackson, MS

Auto • Home • Life • BankingReal Service. Real People.

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(337) 893-2114Abbeville Offi ce (337) 893-2114Maurice Offi ce (337) 893-7332Gueydan Offi ce (337) 536-6232Kaplan Offi ce (337) 643-3372

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Auto purchasing experience can go smoothly with preparationFew purchases can be as nerve wracking as buying

a vehicle. Short of buying a house, buying a car is the biggest purchase many people ever make. Such a large nancial commitment makes it no great surprise that many car buyers approach the process with a degree of trepidation.

Such anxiety with respect to car buying has only increased as the country�’s economic woes have led many people to exercise greater caution before spend-ing their money. That said, the car buying process does not need to be stressful. Before purchasing your next car, consider the following tips that can help make the process go more smoothly.

* Time your purchase properly. Unless your cur-rent vehicle is completely unreliable, it can behoove you to wait until certain times of the year to buy your next car. For example, auto dealers often see the end of the calendar year as a chance to establish sales re-cords. As a result, many auto dealers slash the prices on their vehicles throughout the month of December, providing prospective auto buyers an opportunity to save a signi cant amount of money.

Another good time to buy is late-summer and early fall. That�’s when dealers start receiving the coming year�’s models on their lots, motivating them to sell the current year�’s models, typically at discounted prices.

* Bring something to the table. Entering a dealership empty handed can be akin to painting a bullseye on your back. Without doing your homework, the dealer will be negotiating with you on the prices he has to offer. However, prospective buyers should comparison shop before driving onto the dealer�’s lot. Many times, a dealer will match a competitor�’s price if the dealer fears you will walk off the lot without buying a car. Bring your research with you to the dealer, and you will be able to negotiate on your terms instead of the dealer�’s.

* Know your credit score. For buyers hoping to nance their next vehicle, one of the most in uen-tial factors will be your personal credit history. An individual�’s credit history will determine interest rate when applying for a car loan. Examine your credit report before visiting a dealership to give yourself a better bargaining position. Also, a close examination

of your credit report can determine if there are any er-rors that need to be xed before applying for a loan.

* Be careful trading in a car you still owe money on. When trading in a car you still owe money on, you should get it in writing that the dealer will pay off the existing auto loan within 10 days. If you do not get such an agreement, the auto dealer likely will not pay off the loan on time, and you will be charged late fees that could negatively affect your credit his-tory. If a dealer will not agree to pay off the existing auto loan within 10 days, do not purchase a vehicle from that dealership.

We want to hear from you.The Meridional values your opinion and wants to include it on our editorial page. Please write to us @ P. O. Box 400, Abbeville, LA, 70511-0400 or email us at our new exclusive Letters to the Editor address at [email protected]. You must include your rst and last name and phone number. No profanity or defamatory language will be accepted.

1. Be patient during the break-in period

You�’ve bought your dream car and now you want to make it last at long as possible in top condition. Here are some things to remember as you pull it out of the dealer�’s lot:

* During the break-in pe-riod, typically the rst 1,000 miles (1,600 km), keep your speed under 55 mph (88 kpm) or to the speed recommended by your car�’s manufacturer. * Avoid heavy loads on the drive train, such as towing trailers, and loading the roof rack or trunk with heavy con-struction materials. * Do not allow your new car to idle for long periods �— this is good advice for the life of your car, but especially dur-ing breakin. The oil pressure generated by doing so may not be sending oil to every part of your engine. * Use only light to medium acceleration, keeping the en-gine rpms below 3,000 for the rst few hours of driving.

2. Drive with care everydayBeing car considerate shouldn�’t stop after the break-in. Drive with care every day and your car will reward you with longer intervals without repair.

* Do not race your car�’s engine during start-up.This is a quick way to add years of wear to your engine, espe-cially if it�’s cold outside. * Accelerate slowly when you begin your drive.The most wear to the engine and drive train occurs in the rst ten to twenty minutes of op-eration. * Warming the engine by

letting it idle in the drive-way is not a smart idea.The engine doesn�’t operate at its peak temperature, resulting in incomplete fuel combus-tion, soot deposits on cylinder walls, oil contamination, and ultimately damaged compo-nents. * Put less strain on your engine and automatic trans-mission by shifting to neu-tral at red lights. Otherwise, the engine is still working to push the car even while it�’s stopped. * Avoid driving at high speeds and accelerating quickly, especially when it�’s very hot or very cold outside. Such driving behavior will re-sult in more frequent repairs. * Extend the life of your tires with careful driving. Observe posted speed limits. Avoid fast starts, stops, and turns. Avoid potholes and objects on the road. Don�’t run over curbs or hit the tire against the curb when park-ing. And, of course, don�’t burn rubber. * When turning your steer-ing wheel, don�’t hold it in an extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds. Doing so can damage the power-steering pump. * Consolidate your short driving trips. Most of the wear and tear �— as well as the pollution your car gener-

ates �— takes place in the rst few minutes of driving. Doing several errands at once, dur-ing low traf c hours if pos-sible, will keep your engine happier longer.

3. Buy gas at reputable ser-vice stations

Ask whether the gas you buy is ltered at the pump and if the station has a policy about changing the pump lters regularly. If you get a song and dance, nd another gas station. Some stations don�’t have pump lters, making you more vulnerable to dirty gasoline. Other stations may not mix alcohol and fuel prop-erly �— or worse, water down their product. Find a station you trust and stick to it.

4. Don�’t ll up if you see the tanker

If you happen to see a gaso-line tanker lling the tanks at your local gas station, come back another day or go to a different station. As the station�’s underground tanks are being lled, the turbu-lence can stir up sediment. Sediment in your gas can clog fuel lters and fuel injectors, causing poor performance and possibly necessitating re-pairs.

5. Go easy when you�’re stuck

When stuck in mud or snow, don�’t make the problem worse by damaging an expensive component. Gently rocking in an attempt to free the car is ne. But if it looks as though you�’re really stuck, don�’t keep at it. Throwing your car from forward to reverse repeat-edly, as well as spinning tires at high speeds, can generate lots of heat and spell trouble for transmissions, clutches, and differentials. It may be cheaper in the long run to call the tow truck rather than risk big repair bills down the road. It�’s a good idea to carry a traction aid in the trunk, such as sand, gravel, or cat litter.

6. Lighten up your key chain

Does your car key share a chain with a dozen or more other keys? That�’s a pretty heavy load hanging off the car key when it�’s in the ig-nition. The weight, com-bined with bouncing while you drive, can wear out the tumblers inside the ignition and eventually lead to igni-tion switch failure. To add years of service to your igni-tion switch, purchase a light-weight key chain that allows you to separate your ignition key from the others. Drive with only the ignition key in your ignition. If your ignition key �“sticks�” when you try to turn on the car, it�’s a warn-ing that your ignition switch is about to fail.


Richard A.Broussard

Insurance Agency

500 S. State, Abbeville893-5183 or 893-5388

We Offer Insurance For:Mobile Home

BoatsRV's

Motorcycles(Including 4 Wheelers)

Stan Kasperski Sr. (Owner)

2031 Charity St. �• 898-2952 �• Abbeville

�• Tune-Ups �• Brakes �• Air Condition Repair �• C.V. Joints �• Oil Changes �• Tire Repair �• General Mechanics

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Mechanic on DutyOpen: Mon.-Fri. 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM; Sat. 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Eastside Chevron& Automotive Inc.

Tips To Extend the Life of Your Car


An automotive career offers opportunitiesThe changing face of today�’s job market has led

to an increase in the popularity of trade schools among both high school graduates and profes-sionals looking for a career change. Job seekers are eager to quickly enter a workforce that offers stable employment opportunities.

According to a survey by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be approximately 2.3 million un lled jobs in various skilled trades in 2010. The automotive industry is no exception to this trend. An Occupational Outlook publication from the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that auto service technician and mechanic jobs will grow 18 percent between 2000 to 2010. The report states that job opportunities are expected to be good for people with formal training; strong diagnostic and problem solving skills; and knowledge of electron-ics and mathematics.

�“Whether consumers are driving sports cars, hybrids, electric vehicles or motorcycles, there is always going to be a need for quali ed automotive technicians,�” said Tom King, director of enroll-

ment management at Ohio Technical College (OTC), a Cleveland-based school providing techni-cal training in a variety of transportation indus-tries. �“As baby boomers retire, competition for those quali ed workers will grow and ultimately increase the availability of more high-paying skilled labor jobs.�”

Ohio Technical College is currently teaching 1,000 future techs how to service the many ve-hicles on today�’s roads as well as those still on the horizon. Founded in 1969, the school draws students from all over the country to study a wide variety of technician training programs in Au-tomotive, Diesel, Auto-Diesel, Collision Repair, Classic Car Restoration, High Performance and Racing, Welding and PowerSport Technology.

Many trade schools, including Ohio Technical College, offer an advantageous balance of class-room learning and real-world shop skills using the latest technology and equipment. The specialized training helps job seekers increase their market-able skills and their ability to gain employment.

Depending on which program a student gradu-ates from, OTC boasts a job placement percentage between 80 to 95 percent.

�“The hands-on experience of a technical trade school is very appealing to today�’s employers, many of whom are too short-staffed and pressed for time to invest in extensive training,�” continues King. �“And the shorter certi cate programs typi-cally cost less money than a four-year university.�”

For instance, Ohio Technical College stu-dents enroll in 18-month automotive program. Once completed, they have the option to choose a specialty such as High Performance and Rac-ing, Alternative Fuel Vehicles, Custom Paint and Graphics or even an Associates Degree of Applied Science. In addition, OTC is one of only four BMW Service Technician Education Program (STEP) training centers in the United States, which al-lows students to work on the latest technologies in a 27-week intensive training course. Upon comple-tion, students can start working in any BMW dealership across the country.

Questions are a part of buying processBefore deciding what car to

shop for, a few decisions must be made. Will you be looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle?

Front-wheel drive or AWD? SUV, sedan or pickup? How much can you afford to spend, both on a down payment as well as monthly payments if fi nancing the vehicle?

Comparison shopping is also essential when shopping for a ve-hicle. Things to compare include safety record or rating, reliability history, fuel economy, warranties, operating costs, theft rates, and general features and options.

It might also be a good idea for prospective buyers to request an insurance quote on a par-ticular vehicle before making any purchase fi nal, as insurance rates can vary greatly not only for driv-ers, but for specifi c makes and models as well.

Once you’ve decided on which make and model you’d prefer, be sure to ask the dealer the following questions to ensure you’re getting the best deal pos-sible.

* Which vehicle features come standard and which are options? Ask to see an itemized list of all add-ons, options and fees sepa-rate from the cost of the vehicle.

* Can pricey options be re-moved prior to the purchase, thus lowering the cost?

* What is the trade-in value of a current vehicle?

* What inspection standards or reconditioning processes does the dealer use to prepare pre-owned or even new vehicles for purchase?

* Are maintenance and repairs provided on site?

* What information or docu-ments are required when fi nanc-ing the vehicle through the dealer?

* What warranties are avail-able on the vehicle?

* Is the dealer accredited by the Better Business Bureau?

Receiving satisfactory an-swers to these questions does not guarantee a perfect buyer-dealer relationship, but should give the buyer a much clearer understanding of the transaction.

- 2011 Car Care Edition The Abbeville Meridional -Sunday, March 13, 2011

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Tips for reducing complications of accidentsYou swerve, hit the brakes

and hope for the best. But the worst occurs, sending your car careening into danger -- and a lot of damage.

What you do in the next 10 minutes could have a critical impact on the outcome of your accident from a nancial, legal and personal perspec-tive. Who you call, what you say, and how you record the details of the event all are important in the long-term resolution and repair of your collision.

�“There are some six million auto accidents every year,�” says Dan Bailey, president and chief operating of cer for CARSTAR, the nation�’s larg-est chain of collision centers. �“That means one in eight peo-ple will be involved in a crash this year alone, according to the National Safety Center. With these kinds of odds, it is important to be prepared so you can react calmly, quickly and intelligently when an ac-cident happens.�”

Bailey, a collision repair expert, offers the following tips for anyone involved in an accident.

1. Create a collision kit for your car. Include copies of your vehicle registration and insurance veri cation card so you can keep a copy and leave one in your vehicle in case it is towed for repairs. Also include a sketch pad and

pencil, disposable camera, ares, bottled water, and a rst aid kit. For a download-able accident report form that will help you gather the information at the scene, visit www.carstar.com/resources.

2. Call 911 rst. Provide as much detail as possible about the location of the ac-cident and the condition of those involved.

3. Remain calm and col-lected. Even though you may be scared or even injured, it�’s important to stay as calm as possible. Don�’t say the ac-cident was your fault or make any statement that might be used against you later. Be tactful and courteous, even if you�’re angry. If the other peo-ple involved in the accident are belligerent, don�’t argue with them. Let the police be the intermediary.

4. Turn off your car and avoid danger. Turn off the engine and leave the car where it is if you feel it is

safe. Use the hazards if it is dark. If the car is in danger of being hit, drive slowly to the side of the road or a well-lit parking lot. Warn other mo-torists to proceed around the accident with caution.

5. Assess your condi-tion. If you think you�’re hurt in any way, stay in your car. Only accept medical help from a professional -- and provide medical help to others ONLY if you�’re trained to do so. Pro-vide honest, detailed informa-tion to medical personnel so they can treat you.

6. Call a friend or family member. A close friend or family member can provide support and help collect the accident details. If you are transported for medical care, they can remain behind at the scene.

7. Record the accident details. Photograph the cars involved and traf c condi-tions. Sketch what happened,

including street names, road signs and details on car movements. Get the names, addresses, phone numbers, and license plates of those involved.

8. Identify the wit-nesses. Look for other drivers and bystanders who may have seen the accident. Get their names, addresses, phone numbers, and their recollec-tion of the accident.

9. Have a collision plan in place. Know where you�’d like to have your car re-paired ahead of time so you don�’t have to make a sudden decision. CARSTAR Collision Service offers high-quality, reliable repair service in 27 states and 10 Canadian prov-inces. Just call 1-800-CAR-STAR when you have an accident and they will send the tow truck, contact your insurance company, arrange for a rental car, and repair

your vehicle.10. Collect your per-

sonal items. If your car is being towed, make sure you�’ve collected your valu-ables, electronics, briefcase, purse, vehicle information, and any other items you may need while your car is being repaired. Also take your cop-ies of your vehicle registration and insurance veri cation card.

�“While an accident may range from a minor inconve-nience to a major incident, you need to be prepared for any situation,�” offers Bailey. �“With a bit of planning and quick action at the scene of the accident, you can greatly reduce the potential for nan-cial, insurance and medical headaches afterward. And by choosing a quality collision center to repair your vehicle, you�’ll have a partner to help you get back on the road.�”


Adjusting coverages can lead to savingsWhether you own a brand new Fer-

rari or a beaten up old Datsun, right now the rst thing on many people�’s minds with respect to cars is the cost associated with keeping them going. While much of those discussions sur-rounds the price of fuel, owning and operating a vehicle is becoming more and more expensive, and that�’s thanks to more than just the prices at the pump.

According to the 2008 �“Your Driv-ing Costs�” report from the Automobile Club of Southern California, the cost of driving a vehicle in the United States is now 54.1 cents per mile. That�’s a nearly 2 cents per mile increase from 2007. The report includes mainte-nance, fuel costs, full-coverage insur-ance, taxes, and a host of other factors associated with owning and operating a vehicle.

While there�’s little a driver can do about escalating fuel costs or taxes and registration fees, there are ways to trim some of what you�’re spending on your car each year. One of the most notable is to tinker with your insur-

ance policy, which can lead to a wealth of savings if done the right way.

* Do your homework. Not all insurance companies are the same, and oftentimes the difference in prices can be eye-opening. Many times an individual state�’s insurance depart-ment will provide comparisons of prices the major insurers within that state charge their customers. A list of these state insurance regulators can be found at www.consumeraction.gov/insurance/shtml. If you�’ve been with your current provider for an extended period of time, you might want to shop around, as there�’s a strong chance you�’ll nd a better rate elsewhere. If you do, you can always take any quotes to your current provider and renegoti-ate your rates, or simply sign on with the competitor who gives the best rate.

* Increase your deductible. This can be especially bene cial to drivers who drive defensively or don�’t drive much at all. The deductible is what you owe before the insurance company starts paying. In the case of an ac-cident, for example, a $500 deductible

means you�’ll be responsible for the initial $500 of damages, while the in-surance company will pick up the rest of the tab. If you drive defensively or don�’t drive frequently, your chances of an accident, while still possible, are a lot slimmer. Therefore, you can save a substantial amount of money simply by increasing your deductible to $1,000 or even higher if you so choose. Of course, you should have ample savings to af-ford the higher deductible in case you do get into an accident.

* Reduce coverage for older cars. If you�’ve paid off a car you�’d been nancing or if you have an older car with full coverage, the coverage you have might not be cost effective. For older automobiles, dropping collision and/or comprehensive damages might be a safe bet. A general rule of thumb is that a car that�’s worth less than 10 times your premium is not worth fully insuring. Older cars that you�’ve long since paid off probably fall into that category, and reducing coverage can save you hundreds of dollars depend-ing on where you live.

* Combine coverages. Homeown-ers can save substantial amounts of money if they combine their homeown-ers insurance and auto insurance. But you need not be a homeowner to take advantage of the discount many insur-ers provide to customers who combine coverages. For example, if you own a boat, motorcycle, ATV equipment, etc., have those items covered by the same company that covers your car. More often than not, these multi-policy dis-counts will save you money. However, do your research before combining any coverages.

* Maintain solid credit. Though some insurance companies have elimi-nated a prospective customer�’s credit rating from the process of determining their rate, many still look at an indi-vidual�’s credit rating when determin-ing a quote. To be on the safe side, pay bills on time, only obtain credit you actually need and keep balances on ex-isting accounts as low as possible. This is a good practice in general, regardlessof how it will impact your auto insur-ance costs.

Things to check other than oilGood maintenance can

keep your vehicle on the road for years to come -- and keep you safer on the road. Many drivers think mainte-nance equals oil changes. In fact, most people change oil more often than they need to but don’t rotate their tires as frequently as they should. That’s a big mistake. Proper rotation can add as much as 10,000 miles to the life of a set of tires.

There’s more you can do to keep your vehicle operat-ing reliably. Here are a few tips from AAA.

* Keep maintenance re-cords. Maintenance records are good diagnostic tools

and proof you have cared for your vehicle, which can enhance the vehicle’s trade-in or resale value

* Run your engine for a few minutes before power-ing up the heater, air con-ditioner, wipers, and other accessories. Accelerating with a cold engine can cause premature engine failure.

* If your vehicle has fuel injection, keep the tank at least one-quarter full. Cor-nering with a nearly empty tank disrupts the fl ow to the fuel pump.

* Look for cracks or looseness in engine belts. Broken belts are a major reason for roadside break-

downs.Your local AAA club also

may be a valuable resource for maintenance help. Many clubs operate vehicle care centers; offer annual “car check” inspections of brake fl uid levels, battery connec-tions, lights, belts and hoses by AAA Approved auto repair staff; and provide AAA’s bat-tery service, a mobile service that tests and replaces bat-teries 24 hours, seven days a week.

For more information on vehicle maintenance and other car-related issues, visit www.AAA.com.


and

Extended warranties for preowned cars now popularFew industries have

undergone as much change as the auto industry since the dawn of the 21st century. An increased emphasis on environmentally-conscious behavior has led auto manu-facturers to continually de-velop hybrid vehicles, while escalating fuel costs forced the auto industry to focus attention on producing more fuel-ef cient vehicles.

Another notable shift among auto manufacturers over the last decade is the increasing attention and em-phasis placed on preowned vehicles.

While there was once a time when preowned vehicles were left to used car dealer-ships, nowadays many auto manufacturers, including luxury lines such as Lexus and BMW, market their pr-eowned vehicles. Couple that with the recent recession that has left many looking to get more bang for their auto-mobile buck, and the market for preowned vehicles has likely never been better.

One concern many pro-spective auto buyers rou-tinely have with respect

to preowned vehicles is the strength of their war-ranty, assuming the vehicle comes with a warranty at all. Oftentimes, a preowned extended warranty is a wise investment, especially in an economic environment where everyone is hoping to make the most of each dollar spent. Before purchasing an preowned vehicle extended warranty, it can help to take the following into consider-ation.

Is it necessary?While a warranty might

seem like one of those things that�’s always worth it, that�’s not necessarily true. Vehicle models with a proven track record for reliability might not require the purchase of an extended warranty.

Keep in mind not all repairs are covered by a warranty, so for models that tend to keep going strong with just a minor repair here or there, an extended war-ranty might be an unneces-sary expense.

Prospective auto buyers should keep in mind, how-ever, that there is a ip side to this coin as well. For

example, auto recalls might not be common, but they�’re certainly not rare, either. Buyers considering a model with a history of re-calls should hedge their bets and purchase an extended warranty.

Where can the vehicle be taken?

Many times, the terms of an extended warranty will dictate where a vehicle owner can take the car for repairs. These terms are strict and might eliminate the local mechanic a vehicle owner trusts and has a his-tory with from consideration. Oftentimes, a manufacturer extended warranty will re-quire the warranty holder

bring the vehicle back to the shop where the warranty and vehicle was purchased. This is generally not so with aftermarket warranties, but buyers should read the ne print before deciding on a warranty for their newly purchased preowned vehicle.

Do you know the company selling the war-ranty?

Extended warranties require as much research before purchasing as the vehicle itself. Much like an educated consumer wants a vehicle history report be-fore purchasing a car, that same consumer should also research their warranty com-pany. In the case of manufac-

turer warranties, this really isn�’t an issue, as most auto manufacturers are nancial-ly stable enough to trust.

Where research into a warranty company truly comes into play is when a prospective buyer is con-sidering an aftermarket company, or a company that acts independently and does not manufacture vehicles. As the economic downturn of 2008 and 2009 proved, not all nancial institutions are as stable as they might seem, so it�’s best to practice due diligence and extensively research an aftermarket company before signing on the dotted line.

We want to hearfrom you.

The Meridional values your opinion and wants to include it on our editorial page. Please write to us @ P. O. Box 400, Abbeville, LA, 70511-0400 or email us at our new exclusive Letters to the Editor address at [email protected]. You must include your rst and last name and phone number. No profanity or defamatory language will be accepted.


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Reputable shops protect auto investmentNext to a home and a college education, an

automobile could be one of the biggest investments many of us ever make. When buying a new car, the investment will likely be no less than $20,000, while a pre-owned vehicle could be in that neigh-borhood as well depending on its age, make and mileage.

Since cars are such a signi cant commitment, nding the right mechanic is similar to choosing the right contractor for your home. Should an ac-cident happen, you�’ll want to know you�’re covered, and a trustworthy mechanic is as much a protec-tion plan for your vehicle as car insurance. A good mechanic can not only help x a problem, but prevent problems from developing as well. When looking for a mechanic, it�’s best to look for a few telltale signs that can indicate whether or not he is the auto professional for you.

* What does the shop look like? A mechan-ic�’s garage can offer several hints as to how good that mechanic and the staff are at their work. All garages are going to have some clutter, and parts lying around shouldn�’t be a cause for concern. However, a shop that looks as though it hasn�’t been cleaned in a while might be a red ag.

It�’s also a good idea to check out the vehicles that are in that shop for service. Car owners who take good care of their vehicles tend to nd

good mechanics, so if the cars in the shop appear well taken care of, that�’s a good sign. Even if the cars aren�’t new but appear well taken care of, that could be indicative of a talented staff that�’s capable of keeping a car running longer, a signi -cant bene t when considering the cost of vehicles today.

* Is the staff courteous? Many people are not comfortable with having their vehicle�’s main-tenance needs handled by the mechanics at the dealership where they purchased their car. For some, this is simple paranoia, feeling that the maintenance department has an incentive to cover up or gloss over problems in the hopes that you�’ll buy your next car from the dealership as well. While that�’s highly unlikely, it�’s still common for people to seek out an independent mechanic.

Oftentimes, people nd such independent me-chanics to be more courteous and attentive. That�’s probably because dealership mechanics often work on vehicles under warranty, and many of the jobs they�’re performing are essentially free, giving them fewer reasons to be overly courteous or at-tentive. An independent mechanic and his staff should be courteous, and will likely want you to be a repeat customer. They�’ll work hard to make that come true. A staff that�’s not courteous or atten-tive, whether it�’s at the dealership or not, should

be avoided.* Are certi cations prominently dis-

played? You�’ll want a certi ed mechanic work-ing on your vehicle. If such certi cations, which include advanced course work and ASE certi ca-tions, aren�’t prominently displayed, that could be an indicator the mechanic has something to hide or isn�’t as up-to-date as he could or should be. This is an easy sign to look for, as most mechanics proudly display their certi cations in the front of- ce of their shops. These of ces will typically hang any service awards they might have won, too. So if those aren�’t there, the mechanic might not have won any.

* What are the payment policies? Labor costs can change dramatically from garage to garage, and a reputable garage will spell out their costs, either on the wall or for you upon request, before you have any work done. If the person you speak with is reluctant to share such rates, that�’s not a good sign. Mechanics understand that vehicle maintenance costs are a big expense, and most want you to know what to expect before the work is done and they hand you the bill. If they don�’t, it�’s best to avoid them and their shop.


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Spark plugs are vital to engine’s performancePlanning to install new spark

plugs in your vehicle? There are lots of choices in spark plug design these days -- plugs with one, two, three, or even four ground electrodes. There are also exotic materials like platinum, yttri-um, and iridium for center and ground electrodes. So how to choose?

Bosch, one of the largest suppliers of spark plugs as original equipment for auto manufacturers as well as in the aftermarket, offers some cogent thoughts on selecting the best plug for your vehicle and how you use it.

Avoid downgrading from the origi-nal plugs

�“Engine performance is built on a baseline of design technology, and that includes spark plugs. Today�’s engines are more sophisticated than you might imagine. Combustion chambers are contoured for optimal ow of gases, and many advanced engine designs in-corporate variable valve timing. Part of the equation is a spark of very speci c size, duration, and location.

Downgrading will almost certainly result in reduced performance, econ-omy, and emission control,�” said Reid Smith, Product Manager for Spark Plugs at Bosch.

�“This is particularly true when considering the material used in the plug, and the number of electrodes the plug is equipped with. If the vehicle was origi-nally equipped with platinum plugs, for instance, make sure you install platinum replacement plugs, if it was equipped with 4-electrode platinum plugs, in-stall 4-electrode platinum plugs,�” Smith said.

Take advantage of the lat-est technology

Engine development does not stop when vehicle produc-tion starts. Quite the contrary. Since Bosch, for instance, is a major supplier of spark plugs to domestic and import OEs, their engineers continue to work with the automakers�’ engine devel-opment teams to come up with

designs that can work even better than that which existed when the car was rst built.

�“So you can, and often should, upgrade from, say, single-electrode platinum spark plugs to multiple electrode platinum plugs, and maybe even to plugs with iridium or yttrium. These advanced design plugs enhanced with precious metals will provide more ef cient and complete combustion, and will also last longer,�” Smith indicated.

Install plugs that meet your speci c needs

Plugs come in a variety of designs and materials. Install one that in-creases performance, such as the Bosch Platinum Ir Fusion or plugs for long life such as the Platiinum+2 or Plati-num+4. For motorists who prefer cop-per, remember that some copper plugs have been updated. Bosch�’s yttrium-enhanced Super Plus, for instance, lasts 50 percent longer than other cop-per core spark plugs, which translates into less time under the hood and more time behind the wheel.

There are a lot of situations in which you can bene t from improved spark plug technology, according to

Bosch. Examples include:* Mostly short trips, which don�’t al-

low the engine and spark plugs to fully warm up and burn off deposits.

* Heavy-load use like a car-full of kids, sporting goods, or luggage.

* Operation in cold weather where start-ups can be critical.

What�’s your engine�’s condition?If your car has 50-75,000 miles or

more on the clock, it almost certainly has some internal wear, with atten-dant loss of some engine compression and increased oil consumption. �“An engine with this kind of mileage is almost sure to develop deposits on pistons, valves and, therefore, on the spark plugs as well.

As such, upgrading to a multiple electrode spark plug like Bosch�’s Platinum+2, Platinum+4 or Platinum Ir Fusion will provide extra ground electrodes so the spark can take the most ef cient path to provide optimal spark,�” Smith said. These plugs utilize �‘surface air gap�’ technology for superior spark ef ciency, and are permanently preset at the factory for correct gap. And the multiple electrodes are less likely to foul.

Are you rigorous in having maintenance performed?

If you, like so many of us, are less than scrupulous about having tune-up and other services performed at the precise intervals recommended, it�’s probably best to upgrade to premium spark plugs.

Spark plug replacement in many of today�’s cars is labor-intensive, and the incremental cost of premium spark plugs is relatively modest. Considering that upgraded spark plugs will deliver better fuel economy and performance for a longer time on the road than stan-dard plugs, it�’s a good bet that premi-um spark plugs will pay for themselveslong before they reach the end of their service life, according to Smith.

The bottom line?�“If you have any doubts about the

way your car is used, the condition of your engine, or the likelihood of your adhering strictly to maintenance schedules, upgrade your spark plugs. It won�’t take long to recoup the ex-tra parts cost, and you�’ll enjoy quick starts and thrifty performance for tens of thousands of miles to come,�” said Smith.

2011 Car Care Edition - The Abbeville Meridional -Sunday, March 13, 2011

Costs of car ownership can be reducedToday�’s economy is forcing many consumers to

keep their cars longer. Unfortunately, insurance rates, maintenance and repair costs, and vehicle ownership expenses continue to rise.

Gasoline has reached record high prices in recent years and the U.S. Energy Information Administration expects fuel prices to rise again in the future. Thankfully, you don�’t have to alter your driving habits or buy a new car to get some relief. Here are some quick, inexpensive, easy ways to save money with your car.

Slick way to reduce fuel costs: Upgrading to one of today�’s modern high performance motor oils can make a meaningful improvement to your car�’s fuel economy and engine life. For instance, independent studies have documented that Royal Purple motor oil improves fuel economy by as much as ve percent and signi cantly reduces engine wear. Using high performance synthetic motor oil, as opposed to conventional oils, also allows for more miles between oil changes, reduc-ing maintenance costs and the amount of time spent on maintenance. You�’ll pay a little more

for premium motor oil but the savings in fuel and reduced maintenance costs more than make up for the higher price. You can nd out more about at www.royalpurple.com

Reduce your insurance costs by doing your homework: One of the simplest ways to reduce insurance costs is simply to shop around. Prices vary from company to company, so it pays to do your homework. Get at least three price quotes. You can call companies directly or access information on the Internet. Your state�’s insur-ance regulator may also provide price compari-sons. Other ways to reduce insurance costs can be found by visiting the U.S. Insurance Informa-tion Institute�’s Web site at www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/cars/autoinsu/autoinsu.htm.

Fuel savings are in the air: The U.S. Energy Department reports that under-in ated tires can increase fuel consumption by up to 3 percent. One study estimates that 50 to 80 percent of the tires rolling on U.S. roads are under-in ated. You could save up to 2 billion gallons of gas each year simply by properly in ating your tires.

Secondly, a clogged air lter can increase fuel consumption by as much as 10 percent. Air lters keep impurities from damaging the interior of the engine, so replacing dirty lters will save gas and protect your engine. More tips to save money on fuel are available at www.fueleconomy.gov.

An astute consumer can save hundreds of dol-lars a year on automotive expenses without buy-ing a new car or changing his or her lifestyle. All it takes is a little time and research, and the good sense to choose better performing products.

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Before deciding what car to shop for, a few decisions must be made. Will you be looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle?

Front-wheel drive or AWD? SUV, sedan or pickup? How much can you afford to spend, both on a down payment as well as monthly payments if fi nancing the vehicle?

Comparison shopping is also essential when shopping for a ve-hicle. Things to compare include safety record or rating, reliability history, fuel economy, warranties, operating costs, theft rates, and general features and options.

It might also be a good idea for prospective buyers to request an insurance quote on a particular vehicle before making any pur-chase fi nal, as insurance rates can vary greatly not only for drivers, but for specifi c makes and models as well.

Once you’ve decided on which make and model you’d prefer, be sure to ask the dealer the follow-ing questions to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.

* Which vehicle features come

standard and which are options? Ask to see an itemized list of all add-ons, options and fees sepa-rate from the cost of the vehicle.

* Can pricey options be re-moved prior to the purchase, thus lowering the cost?

* What is the trade-in value of a current vehicle?

* What inspection standards or reconditioning processes does the dealer use to prepare pre-owned or even new vehicles for purchase?

* Are maintenance and repairs provided on site?

* What information or docu-ments are required when fi nancing the vehicle through the dealer?

* What warranties are available on the vehicle?

* Is the dealer accredited by the Better Business Bureau?

Receiving satisfactory answers to these questions does not guarantee a perfect buyer-dealer relationship, but should give the buyer a much clearer understand-ing of the transaction.

Questions are a part of buying process


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Important differences in motor oilsMany people don�’t know how

to select motor oil that will help them get optimum performance out of their car. People often just select the oil their father used, or they may take the suggestion of a counter person at an auto parts store who may not know any more about cars than they do. There are meaningful differ-ences in motor oils and choosing the right one can have a major impact on how well your car runs. Selecting the right oil is the quickest and cheapest way to improve your car�’s performance and reliability. Two components determine how well motor oil will perform in your car. One factor is the base oil, and the other is the combination of chemicals (additives) that are added to the base oil.

Base oilsThe two primary types of

base oils used are mineral and synthetic. Mineral oils are by-products of re ned crude oil. Re ning helps reduces the impurities but leaves molecules of all shapes and sizes. Synthetic oils are manmade compounds where molecules are all the same size and shape; consequently, synthetic oil has a less friction and performs signi cantly better than mineral oils.

There�’s been sizable growth in the use of synthetic oils over the years. In fact, synthetic oils are often the factory ll in many new performance and luxury cars.

AdditivesRegardless of the base oil

used, chemicals must be added to give motor oil the characteristics needed to do its job. Typical addi-tives that may be added to base oil include detergents to reduce the formation of residue, defoa-mants to deter absorption of air,

anti-wear agents, antioxidants and others.Although additives are typically only 15 to 25 percent of the make

up of motor oil, they can impact a lubricant�’s performance much more than the base oil. For instance, mineral based motor oil with a very good additive package can easily outperform synthetic motor oil with a mediocre additive package.

There is no easy way for a consumer to determine the quality of motor oil�’s additive package. Price is often an indicator of quality since the more advanced additive technologies cost more to produce. Perfor-mance is the ultimate measure of additive package quality.

Advances in lubricationSome of the biggest technological advances in lubrication are now

coming through advancements in chemical additives. These break-throughs have been developed by a handful of companies that special-ize in high-performance lubricants, as opposed to major oil companies whose primary focus is re ning and selling crude oil by products like gasoline and other fuels.

One high-performance lubricant company, Royal Purple, has devel-oped lubricants that outperform both leading mineral oils and other synthetics. Their oil has been proven in numerous independent tests to dramatically reduce engine wear, increase horsepower and torque, and reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Cars using their oils can also go further between oil changes, saving the owner time and money, and reducing the impact on the environment. More information about their products is available at their Web site www.royalpurple.com

How to ChooseMineral-based (conventional) motor oils. These are the cheap est

and most widely available oils. They typically use standard additive packages that provide minimum levels of performance and protection.

Synthetic motor oils. These man-made oils are more expensive that mineral-based oils but are still widely available. Their perfor-mance advantages come predominantly from the synthetic base oil used. They have a longer service life and offer some improvements in protection. They typically use the same additive packages found in

mineral-based oils.High-performance �‘speciality�’ synthetic motor oils. These

motor oils are the most technologically advanced oils. Although they signi cantly outperform mineral based or synthetic motor oils, they are about the same price as standard synthetic motor oil. They are typically only available through auto parts stores and select oil change centers. These oils primarily differ in their use of more advanced, proprietary additive technologies.

Still confused? For a used car with little life left in it, stick with the cheap mineral-based motor oil. For a car you plan to keep for a few years and want to get a little better performance from, you should at least upgrade to synthetic motor oil. To get the most performance out of your car, truck or RV, or to protect a vehicle you really care about and want to last, upgrade to a high performance motor oil.

We want to hearfrom you.

The Meridional values your opinion and wants to include it on our editorial page. Please write to us @ P. O. Box 400, Abbeville, LA, 70511-0400 or email us at our new exclusive Letters to the Editor address at [email protected]. You must include your rst and last name and phone number. No profanity or defamatory language will be accepted.


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WHERESERVICEMATTERS

11 car-care tips that save gas Fill up with a lower-octane gasoline. Buy the lowest grade or octane of gasoline that is appropriate for your car. Unless your car requires premium gasoline, lling up your car with high-octane fuel is a waste of money. That pricey premium fuel won't boost your car's fuel economy or performance in the least, so skip it. If you're not sure what grade of fuel works best for your car, open up your owner's manual and take a look. As long as your engine doesn't knock or ping when you fuel up with regular unleaded, you're good to drive on this much cheaper gas. Passing on pricey pre-mium gasoline could save you hundreds of dollars a year. Don't top off. Don't both-er topping off when lling your car's gas tank. Any ad-ditional gas is just going to slop around or seep out. Why waste your money paying for gas your car won't use? Stop pumping at the rst indica-tion that your tank is full when the automatic nozzle clicks off. Tighten up that gas cap. Gas will evaporate from your car's gas tank if it has an escape. Loose, missing or damaged gas caps cause 147 million gallons of gas to evaporate each year, accord-ing to the Car Care Council. So be sure to tighten up that gas cap each time you fuel up your car. Go for the shade. The hot summer sun that makes the inside of your car feel like a sauna also zaps fuel from your gas tank. �“If you let your car bake in the sun there�’s going to be a greater amount of evapora-

tive emissions that take place than if you park in the shade,�” says Jim Kliesch, research associate at the American Council for an Energy-Ef -cient Economy and vehicle analyst for GreenerCars.com. So park your car in the shade of a building or tree whenever possible. And buy a good windshield shade. A windshield shade blocks sun-light and helps to keep heat out of the inside of your car. Use your garage for your car. Got a garage? Clear it out and make room for your car. Parking in your garage will help your car stay warm in winter and cool in summer, and you won�’t have to depend as much on your gas-guzzling air-conditioning or defroster

when you drive. Pump up your tires. Don�’t get caught driving on under-in ated tires. Underin ated tires wear down more quickly and they also lower your car�’s gas mileage. �“Tires that have low pres-sure offer more resistance so the engine is going to work harder to keep the car at 60,�” says Brian Moody, road test editor at Edmunds.com. Your car�’s gas mileage may plummet by as much as 15 percent. Driving on underin- ated tires may also reduce the life of your tires by 15 percent or more. Check your tire pressure once a month. Buy a digital gauge and keep it in your glove box. Compare the pres-

sure in your tires with the recommended pressure listed in your owner�’s manual and on the placard in your car door. Then in ate your tires as needed. Be sure to check tire pressure when your tires are cold. A good time is ear-ly in the morning after your car�’s been idle overnight. Keep your engine in tune. Fixing a car that is out of tune or has failed an emissions test can boost gas mileage by about 4 percent. So be sure to give your car regular tune-ups. You�’ll also want to watch out for worn spark plugs. A mis ring spark plug can re-duce a car�’s fuel ef ciency by as much as 30 percent. Replace air lters. Keep a close eye on your engine�’s air

lter. When the engine air l-ter clogs with dirt, dust andbugs, it causes your engineto work harder and your carbecomes less fuel-ef cient.Replacing a clogged air ltercould improve your gas mile-age by as much as 10 percentand save you 15 cents a gal-lon. It�’s a good idea to haveyour engine air lter checkedat each oil change. The Car Care Council recommends changing your car�’s air andoil lters every three monthsor 3,000 miles or as speci edin your owner�’s manual. Use the right oil. You canimprove your car�’s gas mile-age by 1 percent to 2 percent by using the manufacturer�’s recommended grade of motor oil.


Knowing your car can keep it running

As the economy has sunk into a recession, more and more people are looking to get more out of their vehicles. To get the most out of your car or truck, consider the following maintenance tips to keep your car running smoothly as long as you need it to.

* Drive more cautiously: How you drive can have a very positive or very negative impact on your vehicle’s lifespan. When driving, ac-celerate and brake as smoothly as possible. Accelerating too quickly can waste gas, costing you lots of money, and prove very taxing to your vehicle’s engine. In addi-tion, braking too hard can greatly decrease the life expectancy of your brake pads.

* Stick to a maintenance schedule: A vehicle can be like a house in many ways, requiring upkeep, cleaning and maintenance. Check your automobile’s owner’s manual for maintenance guidelines,

including manufacturer recommen-dations with respect to oil change schedules as well as how frequently to change transmission fl uid, power steering fl uid and the air fi lter. Maintenance schedules are often guidelines, and as a car gets older it can be a better idea to get tune-ups more frequently than even the manufacturer recommends.

* Know what you’re driving: Another way to increase your ve-hicle’s lifespan is to become more acquainted with the vehicle’s make and model. Because cars are manu-factured en masse, individual makes and models typically experience similar problems as they get older. Put online vehicle forums to use so you’re better prepared for any potential problems that might come as your car ages. Knowing a car’s weaknesses can help you alter your driving habits so you can negate those weaknesses and keep the car running smoothly as it gets older.

Gifts not hard to fi nd for auto enthusiast anytime of year

Finding the perfect gift for the automotive enthusiast on your shopping list isn’t always easy, but there are a variety of useful and inexpensive prod-ucts on the market today.

First and foremost, shop-pers should determine the level of involvement your gift recipient has in his or her automotive hobby. Do they prefer accessorizing their own vehicle? If so, personal-ized fl oor mats or seat covers could make the ideal gift. A quick search can help you fi nd several companies that will emblazon a favorite sports team logo or college alma ma-ter on a set of fl oor mats.

For those guys and gals who are more hands-on, consider purchasing products that every automotive do-it-yourselfer should have in their garage. Oil pans, funnels,

lubricants and battery tes-ters can be found at any auto parts store. Shoppers unsure of which product to purchase can simply buy a gift certifi -cate to your loved one’s near-est auto parts store.

Easy-to-use tools are another well-received gift item, especially when they can help solve a common problem. One example is the Actron PocketScan(TM) Code Reader, which lets users quickly pinpoint the cause of their “Check Engine” light notifi cations and then easily turn off the light once repairs are made. The compact tool fi ts in the palm of your hand and works with the on-board computers of 1996 and newer OBD II compliant vehicles, making it a must-have prod-uct for everyone from the novice to the moderate DIYer.

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