6 EASY STEPS ON HOW TO CHECK YOUR TRANSMISSION FLUID

SYMPTOMS FOR LOW TRANSMISSION FLUID

Your vehicle shouldn’t lose automatic transmission fluid in normal operation, so if the level is down, there’s a good chance there’s a leak somewhere. Consult a service professional immediately to have it addressed to avoid possible damage to the transmission. Also, some automatic transmissions do not have dipsticks or may require that a service professional inspect the automatic transmission fluid level. Check the vehicle’s owner’s or service manual.

1

Park vehicle on level surface, engage parking brake and start engine.

Leave car in neutral or park. Let engine warm up and continue to run throughout operation unless vehicle’s owner’s manual says otherwise. (Be aware that some automatic transmission fluid levels are checked with the engine off. Check owner’s manual.)

Locate automatic transmission fluid dipstick.

Typically near where the transmission or transaxle meets rear of the engine. It looks similar to the oil dipstick.

Remove automatic transmission fluid dipstick.

Wipe clean, reinsert fully and remove again. CAUTION: FLUID MAY BE HOT!

 

Observe markings at end of dipstick.

Your dipstick might have two markings for “full”—one warm, one cold. If the automatic transmission fluid level does not come up to the “warm” line, you’ll need to add automatic transmission fluid.

Insert long funnel into automatic transmission fluid dipstick hole.

Carefully add automatic transmission fluid in small increments and recheck level each time until fluid level reaches “warm” line. CAUTION: DO NOT OVERFILL OR SPILL AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID ON HOT ENGINE PARTS!

Reinsert automatic transmission fluid dipstick fully.

You’re done!

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Safety Tips for Truck Drivers On The Road

Driving safely is easier said than done. Every driver who has been trucking for any length of time knows the basic rules of the road for safety, but, every now and then, either a reminder or a few trucking safety tips can help. Staying safe on the road, particularly during winter weather can be hard, and while roadside assistance is just a phone call away if something goes wrong, no trucker wants to make that call.

Here are 9 safety tips for commercial truck drivers:

  1. Don’t change lanes too often and always signal. No matter how vigilant a driver is, the fact is that trucks have major blind spots.
  2. Take frequent breaks. Stretching and frequent exercise breaks are necessary for truckers to stay alert and they also help in terms of long-term driver health, too.
  3. Always have and maintain proper weather- and terrain-related equipment. No one wants to contend with winter weather in the mountains, and it only gets worse without tire chains.
  4. Give other drivers space. Most trucking collisions are caused when a truck hits the vehicle in front of it. Commercial trucks take a long time to brake and ensure proper distance helps avoid potential collisions.
  5. Adhere to driver hour restrictions. Perhaps the most critical part of trucking safety occurs off the road. Sleep, rest, and relaxation are all necessary components of trucker safety.
  6. Be aware of the weather. In winter, be ready to slow to below the speed limit if necessary. Try to keep a full tank to avoid fuel line condensation. Use common sense and remember that bridge surfaces can freeze, jeopardizing driver safety.
  7. Don’t forget that other drivers on the road may act erratically. Consider the use of flashers.
  8. Avoid idling the truck whenever possible, but if you must, keep the windows rolled up.
  9. If pulled over to the side of the road waiting for roadside assistance, be sure to utilize flashers, cones, and even road flares to alert fellow truck driver.

Driving safety, particularly trucking safety, involves a long series of small individual decisions. Trucking isn’t just the time spent on the road, it is a series of life choices involving sleep, rest, and relaxation as well. These trucking safety tips for truckers are a start, but making the right decision every time can help everyone get home safe and sound.

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How to Drive in a Tornado

No one hopes or expects to encounter a tornado while they’re driving, but that’s exactly why you should be prepared. If you see a tornado while driving, remember to follow these tips and act on what seems best in your situation.

Do:

  • Go to the nearest solid shelter if you see a tornado in the distance. The more walls between you and a tornado, the better.
  • Drive at a 90-degree angle away from the tornado’s path.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. If the tornado is close and there is no shelter nearby, look around to see if you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway. Next, exit your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands.
  • If the tornado is close and there is no shelter or low-lying areas nearby, stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows, covering your head with your hands and a blanket if possible.

Don’t:

  • Try out-running a tornado that is close by. Tornados can travel at high speeds and don’t necessarily follow the road.
  • Use unpaved roads. The strong rains that often accompany tornados can quickly make dirt or gravel roads impassable.
  • Take shelter under an overpass or a bridge as winds can accelerate and cause injury or death from flying debris.
  • Take shelter in a culvert. You can easily become trapped and risk drowning if it becomes clogged with water or debris.
  • Take shelter under your vehicle. Vehicles can easily be rolled over or even carried long distances in a tornado.
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Tips For Night Driving In The Rain

Driving in heavy rain at night can be treacherous. The darkness and the weather can combine to create extremely dangerous conditions. However, you can stay safe on the road with a few simple safe driving tips.

In this blog post will discuss some tips for driving in heavy rain at night.

Tip 01: Check everything before heading out.

Before you even turn on your car, it’s important to check a few things. Make sure your car’s windshield wipers are in good working condition and that you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid.

It’s also wise to check your tires. In heavy rain, your tires can make the difference between staying on the road and hydroplaning. On slippery roads, balding tires may significantly diminish traction resulting in hydroplaning.

Lastly, check your air conditioning. Rain can cause the temperature outside to decrease, which increases the likelihood that your windows will fog up. Your A/C should be capable of keeping the temperature inside your car at the same level as the outside to prevent fogging.

Tip 02: Drive slow and stay below speed limits.

Although it may seem apparent, this point has to be made again. Driving too fast in heavy rain is a recipe for disaster. Not only will you have a hard time seeing, but you’re also more likely to lose control of your car. Avoid driving completely in severe weather if you can. However, if you must go outside, make careful to move slowly.

Tip 03: Keep hazard lights turned off and headlights on.

When your automobile is stopped on the side of the road, your hazard lights should be on. They convey to other drivers the need for caution. However, they may also be a distraction, so it’s better to leave them off when driving in a lot of rain. As for headlights, make sure they’re on so you can see and be seen by other drivers.

Tip 04: Avoid standing water.

Standing water is one of the biggest dangers of driving in heavy rain. Finding another route is best if you can’t see the ground through the water. Failure to remain safe on wet roads can result in hydroplaning.

It happens when your car’s tires begin to contact standing water rather than the road’s surface. Drivers start to hydroplane, which causes them to lose control of their cars. The driver may experience significant stress from feeling out of control.

Be sure to keep your calm at all times if you find yourself hydroplaning. Put your foot off the gas slowly and turn your automobile in the desired direction. Finally, avoid making any sharp bends or braking your car.

Tip 05: Don’t drive if you’re not comfortable.

If you don’t feel comfortable driving in certain weather conditions, don’t do it. Driving in heavy rain at night can be dangerous and stressful, not to mention the risk of hydroplaning, so only attempt it if you’re confident in your abilities. If not, wait until the weather clears up or find another way to get to your destination.

Always keep road safety as your first concern when driving in heavy rain at night. Following these safe driving tips can help ensure a safe and smooth journey.

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Why Are My Brakes Making Noise?

Have you ever been confused as to the sounds coming from your vehicle when you brake? From grinding and rattling to thumping and squealing, you can learn how to decode the sounds, pinpoint their root causes, and figure out what they might mean for the health of your car.

 Common brake noises and their causes

During a commercial vehicle inspection spanning three countries on April 19, 2023, 11.3% of the vehicles inspected were marked as unfit and unsafe for roadways. Among those from the U.S., 11.5% of them were out of service for brake-related violations. Even if you don’t drive a commercial vehicle, you need to know if your car’s brakes are fit for the road. Here are the top noises to listen for that could indicate a brake-related issue in your car:

1. Grinding noise when braking

Grinding noises indicate worn-out brake pads and probably mean that their metal braking plates are rubbing against the brake rotors. If this happens, your brakes won’t work as well and can result in an increased stopping distance and a higher chance of collisions. If left too long, it may damage your rotors or other braking system components.

2. Rattling noise when braking

When you hear a rattling noise, this often indicates loose or worn components in the brake system. This could range from worn brake pads to loose calipers or even issues with the brake shims. If brake pads are too worn, this can result in a warped or distorted rotor, causing a rattle when you hit the brake.

3. Thumping sound when braking

If there’s an issue with the brake drum or rotors, this often results in a thumping sound due to uneven surfaces caused by wear and tear. When the thumping is coming from the front wheels, this can mean your brake rotors are warped or deformed.

4. Squeaking or squealing noise when braking

There are a variety of things that can cause squeaking or squealing while braking, including worn-out brake pads, glazed rotors, dirty brakes, insufficient brake lining or no lubrications on the brakes. If you notice a high-pitched sound while braking, take your car to a professional immediately.

Symptoms of bad brakes

Look out for these top symptoms your brakes could be unsafe and going bad, then take your car into a mechanic:

  • Your brake light is on
  • You hear squeaking or squealing while braking
  • You feel steering wheel vibrations while braking
  • Fluid is leaking
  • The brake pedal feels soft or spongy
  • You notice a burning smell while driving
  • The car pulls to one side 

How often should you have your brakes checked?

A good rule of thumb is to get your brakes inspected at least once a year. If you don’t drive that much, you are using good brake pads or you have good driving habits, you might not need to have them replaced that often. For other info on when to take your car in for maintenance, reference our checklist. Lastly, remember to protect yourself and your vehicle with the proper auto insurance for you.

 

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What Is an Ignition Coil?

An ignition coil, as its name suggests, plays a vital role in igniting the engine. This small yet potent device delivers up to 60,000 volts of power to the spark plugs to ensure your vehicle’s smooth operation. You can find the ignition coil nestled within the engine compartment. The heart of your vehicle’s performance lies in its ignition system, with the ignition coil playing a starring role. Keeping it maintained will help to have a smooth, efficient drive.

What does an ignition coil do?

The ignition coil functions as a power transformer. It takes the 12-volt charge from your car battery and transforms it into something much more potent. This converted voltage, which can reach up to 60,000 volts, is what your spark plugs need to ignite the fuel-and-air mixture within the engine’s combustion chambers. Without a functioning ignition coil, the spark plug would not receive the necessary voltage to create the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mix.

Where is it? The location of your ignition coil depends on the make and model of your vehicle. One common location is attached to the spark plugs on top of the engine block.

Types of ignition coils

Understanding the different types of ignition coils can be incredibly helpful, especially when it comes to maintaining your vehicle or diagnosing potential problems.

Canister-style coils

Conventional ignition coils, often referred to as canister-style coils, were very common in older vehicles. The design of these coils is quite simple: A metal canister houses the primary and secondary windings. They typically sit outside the engine and are wired to a distributor, which then takes on the responsibility of distributing the high voltage from the coil to the spark plugs. Despite their simplicity, conventional ignition coils are known for their durability and reliability.

Distributor less ignition system (DIS) coils

As technology advanced, so did ignition coils. Enter the distributor less ignition system (DIS) coils. These coils represent a significant step forward in ignition technology. Instead of relying on a distributor, DIS coils are usually mounted directly on or near the spark plugs. Each coil is tasked with supplying high voltage to a specific spark plug. This design allows for more precise timing of spark production for each cylinder, thanks to the use of sensors. The result is improved ignition performance and efficiency over conventional coils.

Coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils

Taking the concept of DIS coils a notch higher, we have the coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils. In a COP system, each cylinder gets its own personal ignition coil, which is mounted directly on the spark plug. This setup eliminates the need for spark plug wires, allowing for even more precise and efficient ignition. COP ignition coils provide enhanced spark energy and better control over combustion. The outcomes are improved engine performance and reduced emissions.

Signs of a bad ignition coil

How can you tell if your ignition coil is failing and needs attention? Here are some common signs:

  1. The check engine light is on: If it illuminates, it could be indicating a problem with your ignition coil.
  2. The engine misfires: Should your ignition coil begin to fail, it might fail to supply adequate voltage to the spark plugs, resulting in misfires.
  3. Starts are difficult: When spark plugs aren’t receiving enough power to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine, your vehicle will have a hard time starting.
  4. Fuel economy decreases: A failing ignition coil can disrupt the balance of fuel consumption and power generation, leading to less-than-optimal fuel economy.
  5. Power begins to lag: A bad ignition coil might not supply enough power to the spark plugs, resulting in reduced engine performance.
  6. The engine backfires: This might indicate a faulty ignition coil failing to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber adequately.

How long do ignition coils last?

On average, a well-maintained ignition coil should last around 100,000 miles. However, this can vary depending on factors like your driving habits, vehicle make and model, and even the climate you live in. It’s important to remember that preventive maintenance is always better than reactive repairs. Regular check-ups can assist in identifying potential issues before they develop into more severe (and expensive) complications. So, if your check engine light has been flickering or your engine is misfiring, it’s best to schedule a visit to your mechanic sooner rather than later.

Understanding your vehicle, including the vital role of the ignition coil, ensures smooth and efficient driving. However, even with impeccable maintenance, unforeseen issues can arise. Having the right auto insurance is key to protecting your car from unexpected repair costs and other road-related incidents. It not only gives you peace of mind but also helps to ensure that you get back on the road without worrying about financial implications.

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What Are The Best Car Colors To Buy?

The color of a car isn’t always an essential deciding factor when you’re making a purchase decision. Nevertheless, it is still quite important to most buyers.

Factors That Can Influence Your Car Color Choice

Choosing the right color can be challenging, though. Aside from aesthetics, other factors like maintenance, resale value, and cost all influence what car color you choose.

Let’s examine some of these factors to find out the best car colors

Personal Taste

When selecting a car color, the buyer’s personal choice is likely the single most important factor.

Color preferences often reflect a person’s personality. Individuals who wish to stand out tend to prefer bright, bold colors that attract attention, such as yellow, red, or green. Colors such as white, silver, gray, and black may appeal to those seeking simplicity.

Choosing a color that you admire will improve your ownership experience and the satisfaction you derive from your car. You’ll feel more satisfied with your car if it comes in a shade that suits you well.

Maintenance

Maintaining the color of your car might be difficult. Aside from pearl hues, other colors, such as black and red, need cautious maintenance since scratches, grime, and dirt are easy to spot.

White, gray, and silver are the most straightforward colors to keep clean. Lighter hues, in contrast to most dark colors, barely show dirt. Darker colors need more effort to look attractive. The deeper the color, the more scratches you’ll notice and the longer you’ll have to spend polishing body panels.

Dark metallic hues are also more prone to wear and require more care. However, these hues are the most eye-catching when they are properly maintained.

Heat Absorption

Metal is a great conductor of heat. A car coated in a dark hue will have higher heat-absorbing tendencies. Studies have shown that darker colors absorb more heat than lighter ones. Dark-colored cars absorb more heat, making the car hotter. On the other hand, lighter colors reflect heat well.

Cost

Some car manufacturers offer models in specific colors at an additional cost. For instance, Toyota’s Pearl White color is frequently more expensive than other regular colors. Mazda’s flagship Soul Red Crystal and Machine Gray hues are likewise more costly. Getting such branded car colors costs extra money.

Resale Value

The color of a car can have an effect on its resale value. Many buyers choose to buy white, black, gray, or silver cars because they retain their value better. If your car is a flashier color, you may have difficulty selling it.

There is a common misconception that brighter hues like red increase insurance premiums. This is, however, not the case. The color of a car has no impact on its insurance. The only thing insurance companies care about is the make and model of your vehicle and how much it costs to repair and replace it, among other things.

The Best Car Colors to Buy

Grayscale (Black, white, gray, and silver) colors continue to be the most popular paint colors at dealerships. Car owners like neutral colors because they are easy to clean and retain their value.

These are some of the best car colors based on popular demand:

White

White is one of the best car colors because it conceals dirt, dust, and tiny scratches. Cars painted white also reflect heat effectively, keeping them cooler for longer. Compared to other car colors, white cars generally appear newer for a more extended period of time.

Black

The sleek, glossy appearance of well-executed black paint can impart a sense of style to even the most basic vehicles. However, it fades faster than other colors. A black-colored car reflects heat poorly, and the paint coat can be expensive to maintain.

Gray

Lighter shades of gray, as opposed to black, age nicely, helping to preserve resale value. Grey cars are also straightforward to keep clean because the shade easily conceals dirt, dust, and minor damage.

Silver

Silver-colored cars have a shinier finish than gray cars, and they are excellent at hiding dirt and blemishes. Also, mud that builds on the lower panels is not as evident as on white vehicles.

Red

Red is a popular color for sports cars because of its boldness; it makes a car appear flamboyant and sporty. It’s ideal for drivers who want to stand out in a crowd. It can also effectively conceal filth and muck. However, if the red paint gathers too much dirt, it can quickly become dull. It is a hue that requires a lot of care.

Blue

Blue is popular with drivers who want to portray a calm and composed personality. Darker blue shades convey a more confident and authoritative appearance. However, these various shades of blue are often more challenging to clean and maintain. Darker shades of blue, in particular, may highlight even the tiniest bits of dust and dirt.

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5 Tips to Avoid Animal-Vehicle Collisions

Throughout the year, thousands of animal-vehicle collisions happen across the United States. Encountering wildlife while driving can be dangerous and scary. Often animals will suddenly jump onto a roadway or find themselves in busy, urban areas and in harm’s way.

Knowing what to do when you encounter a large animal on or near a roadway can save your life. Here are five tips that can reduce your risk on the road:

  1. Be vigilant. When driving in the mountains or countryside, a wild animal accident becomes a real possibility. As you drive, always pay attention to what’s around the corner. If you see signs indicating the presence of wildlife activity, slow down, practice caution, and expect the unexpected. Keep in mind that some animals move in groups. If you spot one, there may be more nearby. 
  2. Reduce your speed. If you spot an animal in the road, immediately reduce your speed and, if necessary, come to a complete stop. You want to avoid, if possible, having to slam on your brakes at the very last moment. The sooner you spot the animal, the more time you will have to safely apply the brakes and avoid a wild animal accident. If it’s a large animal, such as a deer or moose, wait for it to move out of the road. If you encounter a deer, flashing your lights or honking your horn may encourage it to move.  
  3. Avoid sharp turns. When drivers unexpectedly encounter an animal on the road, their first impulse is typically to swerve in order to avoid an animal vehicle collision. This is definitely not recommended, as a sharp turn made at the last minute can cause your car to lose control and result in a collision. 
  4. Be extra alert during dusk and dawn. There are specific times when the probability of animal accidents with cars increases. Be on your highest alert at dusk and dawn, when animals tend to be especially active. Deer is most active during evenings and nights, when they are hardest to spot. 
  5. Seasonal factors. To avoid a wild animal accident, be extra vigilant during peak season. Early autumn is mating season for moose and other animals, so they are on the move. A deer is most visible during fall and early winter. As spring approaches, deer and other animals in the wild begin venturing out with their families and can be spotted along mountain and country roads.  
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5 SIGNS OF A DIRTY AIR FILTER

It’s easy to forget about important technical aspects such as engine filters during regular day-to-day driving. Engine filters work to keep the engine free from debris and pollutants. Over time a car’s filter will always get dirty. Dirty air filters restrict airflow into the engine, eventually hurting a vehicle’s performance. As a responsible owner, it’s important to be aware of signs that indicate an air filter is faulty. Maintain optimal engine performance by keeping your engine free from pollutants. Below is a list of common symptoms the engine air filter should be replaced.

A Decrease in Engine Power

Each drive sucks in contaminated air, and engine filters prevent debris, dust, dirt, and bugs from entering the engine. If the air filter isn’t regularly changed, the filter will become clogged. A clogged prevents an adequate amount of air from getting into the engine. This will lead to the engine running less efficiently than it should. Poor acceleration is a telltale sign of a dirty air filter. A clogged air filter can be prevented by changing your air filter every 12,000 miles or so, depending on driving habits.

The Engine Misfires

A dirty air filter decreases the amount of air supplied to the engine. This can lead to an increase in unburned fuel that turns into soot residue. Soot can mound up on the spark plug tips making them unable to deliver a proper spark. In return, the car can jerk, idle, and in some circumstances, the engine can misfire.

Weird Engine Noises

If a car is idling, the engine should give a typical hum. A clogged air filter limits air supplied to the combustion chamber. The combustion chamber, in turn, can sputter, pop, or give cough-like sounds. Odd sounds may also be accompanied by vibrating or shaking.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency

Gasoline and air work together to power the engine. Contaminated air filters provide insufficient air, so the engine ends up using more fuel to overcompensate. A noticeable decrease in gas mileage can indicate a bad air filter.

The Engine Filter Looks Dirty.

You can determine an air filter state by popping the hood and giving it a visual inspection. Most Air filters are white. If they’re clean and you illuminate them with a flashlight, you should be able to see through it. Faulty air filters will visibly look caked, clogged, and contaminated

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5 Ways to Be a Defensive Driver

You can’t control what other drivers do. But you can do things to lower your chances of being in a crash. This is what it means to be a defensive driver.

How Do I Drive Defensively?

Before you get behind the wheel, get into the right mindset — be alert and, focused, and watch out for other drivers. Then:

  1. Pay attention to your surroundings. Check your mirrors often and scan to see what’s happening 20 to 30 seconds ahead of you. Keep your eyes moving. If you see an aggressive driver, slow down or pull over. Always keep an eye out for walkers, runners, bikers, and pets along the road.
  2. Keep your speed down. The best way to stay in control of your vehicle is to observe the speed limit. The faster you go, the harder it is to respond if someone pulls out in front of you or runs into the road. And lower your speed when the weather is bad.
  3. Follow the 3-second rule to set a safe following distance. As you drive, look ahead and find a “marker,” like a sign, on the side of the road. When the car in front of you passes it, start counting from 0 to 3. If you reach the marker at the count of 3, you’re keeping a safe 3-second following distance. If not, slow down. When weather or road conditions are poor, increase the distance to 6 seconds.
  4. Cut out distractions. Any activity that takes your attention away — even for a second— is a distraction. It’s dangerous and can lead to a ticket in many states. Stay focused until you reach your destination. You can put your phone away or turn on automatic replies that will tell others you’re busy driving.
  5. Don’t rely on other drivers. Always be considerate of other drivers but look out for yourself. You can’t be sure that another driver will move out of your way or allow you to merge. Instead, assume other drivers might be distracted or don’t see you. Think about what you would do if another car pulls out in front of you. Being prepared is key. Some drivers will run red lights or stop signs, so you need to be ready.
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