4 Effects Traffic Jams Have on Your Car

Did you know that the average American commuter spends approximately 50 hours in traffic? In fact, one study showed that commuters lose about 42 hours of their lives every year sitting in traffic. But drivers are not the only ones affected. Traffic congestion also takes a toll on your car. How?

The effects of traffic jams on your car emanate from a stop-and-go environment that results in significant wear and tear. The most significant issue is how much you hit the brakes rather than idling. Hitting the brakes repeatedly has the following impact:

1. Gas Waste

Brakes need energy to function. In a traffic jam, you have to balance braking and getting your car up to speed. Even though you’re moving, you’re using a lot of gas as compared to when the vehicle is idling. Nationwide, traffic wastes approximately 3 billion gallons of fuel.

2. Wears Out Brakes

Worn-out brakes are also one of the effects of traffic congestion on a car. Keep in mind that you’re going 10 miles per hour down to nothing repeatedly, and that wears out a lot of stuff. If you’re on brakes a lot, expect pads and other parts of the braking system to wear out. Some common signs that your brakes need replacement include:

  • Car pulls to one side when stopping
  • Brake pedal feels different (softer and sinks to the floor)
  • Steering wheel shakes when stopping
  • Vehicle shakes when stopping
  • Car squeals when stopping

3. Fluids

Unlike oil and coolants, brake fluid neither gets dirty nor evaporates. However, depending on your climate, it can absorb moisture, lowering the boiling temperature. When that occurs, fluid effectiveness reduces, and that could damage your braking system. It’s wise to consult experts to inspect your brake fluids regularly.

Coolant evaporation and oil getting dirty are also some of the effects of traffic jams. Schedule regular inspections with your mechanic to ensure your vehicle performs seamlessly. The five common fluids to check regularly include:

  • Engine oil
  • Transmission fluid
  • Coolant
  • Brake fluid
  • Power steering fluid

It’s worth noting that most fluids need specialists to replace them. Manufacturers also recommend specific fluids for their cars. It’s wise to consult automobile dealers or certified technicians before changing any fluid.

4. Drive Belt

The drive belt, also known as the serpentine belt, is located on a car engine and works with pulleys, idlers, and tensioners inside the drive belt system accessory. It’s a critical component that provides power for the AC, power steering, alternator, and even the water pump for the cooling system.

Generally, drive belts last for five years, or approximately 50,000 miles without hitches. However, over time, the belt fails because of the intense heat and friction experienced every day on the road. Traffic jams may contribute significantly to this kind of wear and tear. If you suspect your drive belt is failing, look for these signs:

  • Squealing sound or noise from your car front
  • Malfunctioning AC and power steering
  • Overheating engine
  • Wear and cracks on the belt
TIPS

HOW TO GET RID OF A MUSTY SMELL IN YOUR AC

Your car can work perfect mechanically, but it can be virtually undrivable if the cabin smells bad. That may be due to things like spilled milk or takeout containers with bad food in them, but often it’s because the heating, ventilation, and AC system has become contaminated. The musty smell is extremely off-putting and can even make you sick if it’s left untreated.

Correcting a musty AC smell often costs under $200 as a DIY job, or it could be two to three times that much if you take it to a mechanic. Here’s what causes the smell, ways to eliminate the odor, and how to prevent it in the future.

UNDERSTANDING THE MUSTY SMELL

DIY CLEANING TECHNIQUES

Follow these steps to rid your car’s AC system of musty odors:

  • Replace the Cabin Air Filter – If the filter is dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one. And if you have a musty smell, don’t count on only visual confirmation that it’s dirty. Swap it out.
  • Use an AC System Cleaner – Treat your HVAC system with a high-quality, highly rated AC system cleaner. Follow the instructions on the product.
  • Let Your Car Sit – Wait the specified time on the product before you use your car. The treatment time varies, and often, the longer it sits, the better the treatment result.
  • Perform a Follow-Up Treatment – For stubborn odors or extreme buildup, you might have to perform a subsequent treatment.

In addition to specialized products, you can use common household items for a DIY approach:

  • Vinegar – Mix equal parts water and vinegar and spray it into the air intake vents.
  • Baking Soda – Place an open box of baking soda in your car overnight to absorb odors.
  • Sunlight – Leave your car in direct sunlight with windows slightly open to help dry out moisture and prevent mold growth.

One of the first steps in tackling a musty smell in your car’s air conditioning (AC) system is understanding its root causes. Musty odors often stem from the growth of mold, mildew, or bacteria in the AC system. The dark and damp environment within the AC unit provides an ideal breeding ground for these unpleasant elements.

Common causes include:

  • Accumulated moisture in the evaporator core.
  • Clogged or dirty cabin air filters.
  • Bacteria or mold growth in the cabin air intake and other AC components.

Aside from the obvious discomfort of driving in a car with a musty smell, there are more serious reasons to address the issue promptly. Mold and bacteria can not only compromise the air quality inside your vehicle but may also have negative effects on your health, especially if you suffer from allergies or respiratory issues like asthma. A musty smell that isn’t dealt with can lead to potential damage to your AC system, contributing to more extensive and costly repairs down the road.

 

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE TIPS

To maintain a fresh-smelling car and keep it fresh, incorporate these measures into your routine:

  • Run the AC Regularly – Turn on your AC periodically, even in cooler weather, to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Keep the Cabin Clean – Regularly clean the interior of your car, removing any potential sources of odors.
  • Avoid Eating in the Car – Food crumbs and spills can contribute to unpleasant odors.
  • Use Air Fresheners – Place a long-lasting air freshener in your car to maintain a pleasant scent.

 

TIPS

DOES AC AFFECT GAS MILEAGE?

In the scorching summer heat or the uncomfortable humidity of long road trips, air conditioning has become a staple feature in modern vehicles, providing much-needed comfort to drivers and passengers alike. It’s also crucial for keeping windows clear when the defrost or defog setting is on. However, a common question lingers: does air conditioning use gas and affect your fuel economy?

In this article, we’ll delve into this burning question, exploring the relationship between air conditioning usage and its potential effects on your vehicle’s fuel consumption.

HOW AIR CONDITIONING AFFECTS FUEL CONSUMPTION

To comprehend the impact of AC on gas mileage, it’s essential to first grasp how the A/C system functions. In simple terms, the AC system relies on a compressor to pressurize and circulate a refrigerant that absorbs heat from inside the vehicle and expels it outside. This process cools the cabin, making your drive more comfortable during hot weather. However, operating the A/C system does require energy, and that energy comes from your vehicle’s engine.

When you turn on the AC, the engine works harder to power the compressor and maintain the temperature inside the cabin. The increased workload results in higher fuel consumption, at least in theory. The engine’s fuel efficiency is influenced by various factors, including load and engine speed, and AC usage directly impacts these variables.

In general, the impact of AC on fuel consumption is more significant in city driving conditions compared to highway driving. In stop-and-go traffic, where the engine frequently revs up and down, the A/C system’s demand for power becomes noticeable. On the open highway, the impact is relatively less pronounced as the engine operates at a more consistent speed.

UNDERSTANDING GAS MILEAGE AND EFFICIENCY

To understand the AC’s effect on gas mileage, it’s crucial to grasp the concept of gas mileage and efficiency. Gas mileage, expressed as miles per gallon (MPG), indicates how many miles a vehicle can travel on a gallon of fuel. The higher the MPG, the more fuel-efficient the vehicle is.

Efficiency is a complex interplay of various factors, including the vehicle’s engine, weight, and driving conditions. AC usage is one of these factors, but it’s not the only one influencing gas mileage. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and driving habits also play significant roles in determining fuel efficiency. Overall, A/C might decrease your fuel mileage by up to 25%, and that becomes noticeable at the pump. You’ll want to figure out how to reduce the effect when possible.

TIPS FOR IMPROVING GAS MILEAGE WHILE USING A/C

Now that we’ve established that AC usage can affect fuel consumption let’s explore some practical tips to help you maintain a balance between comfort and fuel economy:

  • Use A/C wisely. On the highway, consider using the A/C sparingly or turning it off when cruising at a constant speed. In stop-and-go traffic or during extreme heat, use the A/C strategically to stay comfortable without overtaxing your engine.
  • Keep windows closed. When driving at high speeds on the highway, keeping your windows closed reduces aerodynamic drag, which can improve fuel efficiency.
  • Park in the shade. Parking in the shade helps keep your car cooler, reducing the need for intense A/C use when you start your journey.
  • Maintain your vehicle. Keep your vehicle well-maintained with routine oil and oil filter changes, air filter replacements, and tire rotations. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, which can offset some of the A/C-related fuel consumption.
  • Maintain proper tire pressure. Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires can increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel efficiency.

SEASONAL CONSIDERATIONS: AC USAGE IN DIFFERENT WEATHER

AC usage may vary depending on the season. During hot summer months, it’s natural to rely more on AC to stay cool. However, during the fall and spring, you might have more flexibility to use natural ventilation and reduce AC usage.

In the winter, you might not think you’re using the AC at all, but you are. When the windshield is defrosting, the air conditioning cycles to remove moisture from your interior that causes the frost. Still, whenever possible, switch to another setting that doesn’t use AC to remove the drain on the system.

HYBRID AND ELECTRIC CARS: AC IMPACT ON RANGE

For hybrid and electric vehicle owners, AC usage can have a slightly different impact. EVs use the high-voltage battery to power the AC, which can lead to a reduction in the vehicle’s range. To mitigate this, some EVs offer features like preconditioning, allowing you to cool or heat the cabin while the vehicle is still connected to a charger.

Hybrid vehicles also see a decrease in fuel efficiency when running the AC, but the impact is typically less significant compared to traditional gasoline vehicles.

BALANCING COMFORT AND FUEL ECONOMY

So, does AC burn gas more than you expect? While it’s true that using the AC can impact gas mileage, the effect is manageable with mindful driving habits and vehicle maintenance. The key is to strike a balance between staying comfortable and maximizing fuel efficiency. By using the AC strategically, maintaining your vehicle, and considering seasonal variations, you can enjoy a comfortable ride without breaking the bank at the gas pump.

Remember that modern vehicles are designed to be more fuel-efficient than ever, and advancements in AC technology continue to improve energy efficiency. So, whether you’re cruising through the sweltering summer heat or embarking on a long road trip, rest assured that you can enjoy a cool, comfortable ride without sacrificing too much in terms of gas mileage.

TIPS

10 Essential Tips to Prepare Your Car’s A/C System for Summer

With summer fast approaching, it’s time to ensure that your car’s air conditioning (A/C) system is in top-notch condition to keep you cool and comfortable during those scorching days. Neglecting your A/C system could lead to discomfort and potential breakdowns when you need it the most. To help you stay cool on the road, here are ten essential tips to prepare your car’s A/C system for the upcoming summer heat:

  1. Check Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels can lead to weak or warm air blowing from your A/C vents. Have a professional mechanic inspect your system and recharge it if necessary to ensure optimal cooling performance.
  2. Inspect for Leaks: Even a small leak in your A/C system can result in diminished cooling efficiency. Have a certified technician inspect your system for leaks and repair them promptly to prevent further damage.
  3. Replace Air Filters: Dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow and reduce the effectiveness of your A/C system. Replace cabin air filters according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule to maintain proper airflow and improve air quality.
  4. Clean Condenser Coils: Over time, dirt, debris, and bugs can accumulate on your A/C condenser coils, obstructing airflow and hindering cooling performance. Regularly clean the condenser coils to ensure optimal airflow and efficient heat exchange.
  5. Test Blower Motor: A malfunctioning blower motor can result in weak airflow or no airflow at all from your A/C vents. Test the blower motor to ensure it’s functioning correctly, and replace it if necessary to maintain adequate airflow.
  6. Inspect Belts and Hoses: Cracked or worn belts and hoses can lead to A/C system failures and even engine overheating. Inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear and replace them as needed to prevent costly repairs down the road.
  7. Check Thermostat Operation: A faulty thermostat can cause your A/C system to malfunction or not cool properly. Test the thermostat to ensure it’s accurately reading the temperature and cycling the A/C system as needed.
  8. Clean Evaporator Drain: A clogged evaporator drain can lead to water buildup inside your vehicle and musty odors. Clean the evaporator drain regularly to prevent water accumulation and maintain a fresh interior environment.
  9. Test A/C Performance: Before the summer heat kicks in, test your A/C system’s performance to ensure it’s cooling effectively. If you notice any issues such as weak airflow or warm air, have your system inspected by a professional technician.
  10. Schedule Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to keeping your car’s A/C system running smoothly. Schedule routine inspections and service appointments with a trusted mechanic to address any issues before they escalate.

By following these ten essential tips, you can ensure that your car’s A/C system is ready to tackle the summer heat and keep you comfortable on the road. Don’t wait until the temperatures soar to address A/C problems—take proactive steps now to stay cool and enjoy hassle-free driving all summer long.

TIPS

What are the key benefits of a dash cam?

When you’re out on the road, it is important that you feel safe and comfortable at all times. Driving is something that offers freedom, independence and ease to everyone. However, despite all the positive aspects that driving can offer, it can be dangerous and you need to protect yourself should something go wrong when you are on the road.

 

What is a dash cam?

A way to protect yourself should the unexpected happen is to purchase and install a dash cam. Dash cams document your driving and enable you to record anything that happens on the road. This protects you against fraudulent insurance claims, deters theft and can lower your car insurance premium.

A dash cam is a small camera that can be mounted on both the front and rear of your vehicle. This small camera should face the road and will record the road when you are driving. Some advanced dash cams have the capabilities to turn on when your car is knocked when in park. This gives you a better chance of catching culprits who damage your car and don’t stay to let you know what has happened.

Even though dash cams can be costly, they are worth it for the protection they can give you. Here are the key benefits of owning and using a dash cam:

 

1. Deters fraudulent insurance claims

Although it is a sad truth, fraudulent insurance claims happen all over the country, and are becoming more popular with criminals. The main reason people make fraudulent insurance claims is to get money out of the other person through insurance.

Having a dash cam means you can prevent anyone from making a fraudulent claim about you, as you’ll have direct proof of the incident.

 

2. Can deter theft

Put simply, if someone is looking to steal a car, a dash cam acts as a deterrent. A dash cam acts as a form of security for your car when it is parked and left unattended. Some dash cams have a surveillance mode that turns on even when the car hasn’t been turned on.

A potential thief would be less likely to take the risk of stealing your vehicle if they saw a dash cam in the front or rear window.

3. Offers peace of mind for you and your loved ones

If you’re a new driver, or even if you have a lot of experience behind the wheel, a dash cam can act as peace of mind for your loved-ones. Knowing that you have that back up should anything unexpected happen when you’re on the road offers you protection, should you need it, at any time.

4. You can record your journeys

Not only does recording your journeys ensure you have a record of everything that goes wrong, it also enables you to have a video of where you have driven your car and perhaps some amazing memories that you have created on the road.

TIPS

Top 6 Tips for Cracked Windshield Prevention and Repair

All it takes is one small chip in the windshield before it becomes a full-fledged crack. Even though a chip may appear small, it can quickly become a more serious issue. Here’s how to prevent a windshield crack from escalating into a more serious safety concern.

1. Decide whether it needs immediate attention

First, where’s the crack located? Is it off to the side, or is it obscuring your view? If it interferes with your ability to see the road, you should deal with even a tiny crack immediately.  However, if it’s not impairing your ability to see the road, grab a ruler and measure the length of the chip or crack. This can help determine whether you can repair the windshield or need professional repair or replacement.

2. Determine whether it needs to be repaired or replaced

If the chip is smaller than the size of a quarter or up to 2 inches in length, it can often be repaired. However, the shape of the chip or crack, such as bullseye, star, or half-moon, can limit the type of repair. Every crack or chip is unique, and consulting an expert is important. The goal is to prevent a crack from getting bigger or in any way compromising safety.

3. Avoid dirt and debris

One of the most important things to guard against is dirt. If dirt gets into the crack, it can complicate a simple repair. But that doesn’t mean you should head for the car wash or reach for a bucket. If water seeps into the crack, what began as a small repair can easily become a complete replacement. Instead, you can temporarily keep dirt and moisture away from the crack by cleaning the damaged area and applying a piece of clear packing tape, which is strong but won’t obscure your view. Another short-term solution for protecting the chip from dirt is to apply super glue evenly throughout the crack and wipe off any excess.

4. Park indoors to avoid the elements

Sun, snow, and rain all have the potential to cause the chip or crack on your windshield to grow. If possible, park your car inside, where it will be protected against the elements, especially the sun, which can cause the windshield to heat up and allow the crack to expand. If you don’t have a garage, try parking in a shaded spot.

5. Avoid temperature cold extremes

Likewise, extremely cold weather is not good for a cracked windshield because glass contracts when it gets cold. Refrain from putting your air conditioner or defroster on high. If necessary, use the heater moderately to defrost the windows gradually.

6. Drive carefully

Another way to keep the crack from getting larger is to drive with extra caution. That means safely avoiding potholes and staying away from rough roads. Jostling the car is the last thing you should do when driving with a cracked windshield, and you also want to avoid slamming the doors or the trunk.

Above all, keep safety in mind at all times. The sooner you get the windshield in for replacement or repair, the better.

TIPS

How to store a car battery

f you expect your car battery to sit unused for more than a month, you should consider removing the battery and storing it away. This will help reduce wear on your battery and allow it to better hold its charge in the long run.

Now, there’s a lot more to storing your battery than just placing it on a shelf in your garage. Follow these steps for battery storage:

1. Make sure the battery is fully charged

Always store your battery at full charge. This will help prevent most damage and deterioration that can happen while in storage.

2. Look for possible damage

Batteries can sometimes crack or corrode with age, so inspect your battery for any sort of damage. It may need to be replaced if the damage is serious.

3. Clean up the battery

Corrosion and electrolyte buildups should be cleaned before the battery is put away. Grime such as this can interfere with the terminals, causing the battery to discharge faster.

The easiest way to clean a battery at home is by applying a mixture of baking soda and water and scrubbing with a wire brush. Once you’ve taken care of the deposits, wipe down the battery’s casing according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Find the right storage location

While you should count on your battery discharging in some capacity while it’s in storage, you can take measures to limit the amount of power that is depleted. Outside of the length of time your battery is stored, the main factor that will impact your battery’s discharge rate is temperature.

Ideally, you want to keep a battery in a dry, well-ventilated area that remains between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid spots that could get too hot or cold, as it could make the battery discharge faster. In addition, keep away from places with excess humidity; this can cause the battery to corrode.

5. Recharge the battery regularly

Monitoring your battery while it’s in storage is crucial to maximizing its life. Make it a point to check in on your battery at least every 12 weeks (though the more frequent, the better). If possible, test the voltage with a voltmeter to gauge how much power your battery has left. When it’s at 70% charge or less, recharge it.

TIPS

How to Check Radiator Fluid

There’s just no way around it — summer is hot! And with this seasonal heatwave comes the risk of an overheated engine. Luckily, your vehicle’s cooling system helps combat Mother Nature by keeping your engine at a cool, optimal temperature. One key component of the cooling system is radiator fluid. But what is it, and how do you check it? Let’s dive a little deeper into this important fluid.

Radiator Fluid Explained

So, what exactly is radiator fluid? Radiator fluid — also known as coolant or antifreeze — is usually a mixture of water and glycol. Water serves as the base, while glycol provides anti-freezing and anti-overheating properties. Radiator fluid can also include additives, such as corrosion inhibitors and lubricants, to help maintain the cooling system’s integrity and improve its overall performance.

Ultimately, the radiator fluid primarily regulates the engine’s temperature by transferring heat away from the combustion chamber. Here’s a quick rundown of how it works within the cooling system:

  • A water pump circulates radiator fluid through the engine, absorbing excess heat.
  • The radiator fluid then travels through hoses to the radiator, dissipating it into the surrounding air via the cooling fan.
  • Then, the thermostat regulates the radiator fluid’s temperature to keep it consistent for efficient engine performance.

If your radiator fluid is low or contaminated, your engine may overheat or seize up, causing serious damage to your vehicle and possibly leaving you on the side of the road!

 

How to Check Radiator Fluid: 9 Steps

An overheated engine doesn’t sound like fun, right? Regularly checking your coolant level can help prevent severe engine damage and save you quite a bit of cash down the road. If you want to tap into your DIY spirit, here are the steps for checking radiator fluid:

1. Wear Appropriate PPE
While checking radiator fluid doesn’t require any special tools, wearing gloves, safety glasses, and other Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) is highly recommended because the fluid can cause mild to severe irritation or burns if left on your skin.

2. Park Vehicle on a Level Surface
For accurate readings, park your vehicle on level ground. Also, wait for your engine to completely cool down — at least 30 minutes — since your radiator and fluid can get extremely hot.

3. Find Hood Release
After your engine is cool, locate your hood release and pull it to unlock your hood. It’s typically where your left knee is when sitting in the driver’s seat, but if you can’t find it, refer to your owner’s manual.

4. Locate the Radiator Reservoir 
After you’ve opened the hood, locate the radiator reservoir, typically a white plastic tank near the radiator. Again, refer to your owner’s manual if you can’t find it.

5. Check the Coolant Level in the Reservoir
Look at the high and low (MAX and MIN) indicators on the side of the reservoir and check if the radiator fluid is between those two marks.

6. Inspect the Radiator Fluid
You should also open the radiator cap and inspect the fluid itself for contaminants and sediments. The fluid should be visible and have a bright color — e.g., red, yellow, green, blue, etc. However, if it’s dark, murky, or full of debris, you may need a radiator fluid exchange.

7. Top Off Radiator Fluid (If Necessary)
If your fluid level is low, top it off with more fluid. Check your owner’s manual for the correct fluid specifications, then use a funnel to pour the fluid slowly into the radiator or reservoir until it reaches low (MIN) indicator.

8. Close the Radiator Cap
After you’re done inspecting and/or topping off the fluid, close the radiator cap and ensure that it is secure enough to prevent leaks.

9. Clean Up
Check the area for any spills and clean it up. Radiator fluid is toxic when ingested, so it’s important not to let your children or pets access it.

 

 

TIPS

How to Dog Proof Your Car

Man’s best friend makes a great travel companion, but to make the most of your travels together, it’s a good idea to dog-proof your car. Here are six easy steps to doing that:

Clean your car first

Cleaning your car thoroughly prior to dog-proofing it is key. A wet/dry vacuum can help you get all kinds of matter, from dirt and fur to dried bits of fluid that you don’t want trapped in your carpet or cloth fibers. Make sure your vacuum is strong enough to pull all the moisture out of the fibers – if not, it’s worth taking the car in and letting a professional clean it.

Get a seat cover

If you have a dog in the car, it’s going to be impossible to keep the seats and floor completely free of dog hair. Rather than giving up, look at investing in seat covers that will catch the hair and make for easier cleanup. If you don’t want to invest in fitted seat covers, you could just buy an inexpensive felt blanket to catch the hair – and take it out and shake the hair off after every visit. (Keeping a lint roller in the car’s console can also help you pick up bits of hair that end up in the car between vacuuming times.)

If your interior has leather or vinyl, you’ll want to make sure Fido’s nails don’t scratch the seats or car doors. A seat cover will help, but you can also put plastic wrap over the leather or vinyl on the doors for while you’re out and about.

Cover the windows

One of the telltale signs there’s a dog in the car are those nose prints and slobber streaks on the windows. Eliminate these by covering the window with clear plastic wrap before you hit the road with your dog. It won’t impede your vision, and when the trip is over you can simply peel it off and toss it in the trash – nose prints and all!Cover the windows

While it may look cute to fellow travelers, Rover shouldn’t stick his head out an open window while you drive. Flying debris can cause injury and, if the window is open wide enough, he could be ejected from the vehicle.

Clean any accident quickly

Even with all the necessary precautions, you’re bound to have an occasional accident. Taking care of these quickly will keep any stains from setting, and it helps to keep a spray bottle of high-quality leather or upholstery cleaner on hand to remove spots. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your vehicle’s interior to make sure you’re using the right materials.

Clean up odor

Consider using essential oils to keep your car smelling fresh; they don’t simply cover up odors, they actually eliminate them and many are anti-microbial.

The best way to protect your car’s interior is to plan ahead and prevent the damage from occurring in the first place. If you’ve already experienced some problems, make sure you clean up any unwanted odors before you start. If you just cover them up rather than eliminating them, they’re going to resurface.

Have a secure spot for your dog

Finally, giving your dog a designated space – such as a place on the back seat where he’s secured with a harness attached to the seat belt. This will keep him or her from moving around the car, which not only makes it easier to confine the area that needs to be “dog-proofed,” but is safer for both of you. Many jurisdictions require pets to be strapped in while in a moving vehicle, and crates or specially designed seat belt harnesses for dogs are readily available. Before you hit the wide-open road, check your state’s laws and see if there are any restrictions about how your dog is transported.

TIPS

Why Is My Car Shaking?

It’s never a fun feeling when your car starts to shake. It can happen when you speed up or even when you break. Often, this can be avoided with regular maintenance. Keep reading for the top reasons why your car is shaking and the ways to deal with it.

Top 5 reasons why your car is shaking

1. Wheel problems

A common cause of a shaking car is a problem with one or more wheels. The problem(s) could be any of the following:

  • Damaged tires or rims
  • Improper wheel alignment
  • Worn wheel bearing

2. Issues with your engine or transmission

If the shaking continues when your car is stopped or if there is noise when the car shakes, the issue could be with the engine and/or transmission. Specifically, the problems could be with a broken or loose engine, transition mount or radiator fan.

3. Tire problems

If the shaking is felt at certain speeds, your tires could be the problem.  The tires might need to be balanced. Another solution could be a tire rotation, if the tires are wearing unevenly. You also may need to inflate your tires to the proper pressure. If your tires are older or irregularly worn, you may need to get a new set.

4. Your brakes need to be repaired

If the shaking happens when you brake, the cause is possibly related to your car’s front braking mechanism. Over time, the parts on the front disc brakes can become warped from heavy wear and tear. They should be replaced around every 50,000 miles. A good tip is to have your mechanic check your pads and rotors when you get an oil change to find out whether they need to be replaced.

5. Your transmission fluid is low

If the transmission fluid level gets too low, this can cause your car to start shaking. Make sure to check it often and fill it up as required. Continuing to drive with low transmission fluid can cause permanent damage.

The timing of your car vibrations can help determine the problem

Why is my car shaking when idle?

If your car shimmies when idling, it can mean that you have loose engine mounts, which are the connections between your engine and your car’s frame. The engine mounts keep your motor attached and dampen the engine vibrations, so when the connections wear down, you can feel the vibrations.

Why is my car shaking while braking?

If your car shakes when you hit the brakes, it could mean that you have warped brake rotors, worn-out brake pads or improperly lubricated guide pins. This means it’s time to take your vehicle in for maintenance.

Why is my car shaking when accelerating?

If the shaking starts when you are accelerating, there could be a few things wrong with your car:

  1. Your tires could be unbalanced.
  2. Your spark plugs could be worn out.
  3. Your lug nuts could be loose.
  4. Your inner constant velocity joint could be damaged.
  5. Your motor mount could be broken.
  6. Your axle or drive shaft could be bent.

Is it safe to drive when your car is shaking?

If you feel your car shaking when driving, it’s best for your safety and the longevity of your car to take it to a mechanic so you can sort out the problem as soon as possible.

Also, make sure you protect your car and yourself while on the road with the right auto insurance.

TIPS