6 Tips for Keeping Your Car’s Air Conditioning in Top Shape

The hot summer weather is here and with it is a reminder about how important your car’s air conditioning system is for keeping you comfortable on the road. Here’s 6 tips for keeping your air conditioning running at maximum performance.

1. Run your A/C weekly on defrost mode
You should run your air conditioning weekly for 10 minutes on defrost mode on the coolest setting and at the maximum fan speed. This helps maintain gas pressure, keeps your compressor running well, cleans out moisture and prevents mildew.
This includes running your air conditioning in the winter, which helps remove humidity and works well to defog the windshield.

2. Clean or change the air filter
Dirty cabin air filters prevent proper airflow. Check your filter often and clean or replace it.

3. Don’t pre-cool your car
Your car’s air conditioning operates at maximum efficiency when you’re driving. Don’t pre-cool your car. On extra hot days, put the fan on high once you start driving and open only the backseat windows for 10 to 20 seconds to force out the hot air.

4. Set A/C to the coldest setting
Your car’s air conditioning is most efficient when set to the lowest temperature and adjusting the fan for comfort. Most air conditioning systems cool the air to 3-4 C. A higher temperature forces the system to re-heat the air, burning more fuel.

5. Keep your car clean
Dirt and bacteria can negatively impact your car’s air conditioning system. Keep dirt and debris at bay by cleaning, dusting and vacuuming regularly.

6. Don’t use A/C on recirculate if you have back seat passengers
The recirculation mode pulls air from the front of the vehicle and re-cools it. It works well for passengers in the front of your vehicle, but can leave air stale and hot in the back.

TIPS

TOP TIPS TO CARE FOR YOUR CAR’S BRAKE SYSTEM

The health of your brake system is crucial to the performance and safety of your car. Poor brake system maintenance not only compromises the efficiency and longevity of your vehicle, but is also a major cause of road accidents.

The brake system is somewhat complex, but fairly easy to maintain. It is critical that you have your brake system inspected regularly and necessary repairs done on time. Some of the key components in the brake system include brake pads, brake lines, master cylinder, rotors and calipers.

Key Brake System Maintenance Tips

1. Have Brake Pads and Rotors Checked Regularly

Due to its nature of operation the braking system endures a lot of wear. Brake pads and rotors form the point of contact between the braking system and the tires. These two components wear more quickly and hence require more attention and maintenance. Brake pads endure a lot of heat which causes a lot of wear. It’s critical that you use high-quality brake pads that offer sufficient resistance to wear.

If you notice you need to apply a lot of pressure to your brake pedal, an increase in your stopping distance or a burning smell you need to have your brake pads and rotors checked.

2. Get a Brake Fluid Flush

When you step on your brake pedal, pressure builds up and is transmitted through brake fluid from the master cylinder, via brake lines and into the calipers. These in turn transmits this pressure to the brake pads and rotors. Brake fluid is therefore a critical component of the braking system since it acts as the messenger of the braking system.

Unfortunately, with time it attracts moisture, which can damage your braking system. This moisture corrodes the metal components of the braking system, reduces the boiling point of the fluid hence compromising the effectiveness of the braking system.

3. Have Your Brake Lines Bled

Apart from getting a brake fluid flush, bleeding of brake lines is also important so as to remove the excess air. When air gets trapped in the brake lines, it compromises the efficiency of the braking system.

4. Replace or Upgrade Brake System Components

From time to time you will need to replace some components of your braking system. This is an opportune time to upgrade to specialized or higher-performance components. Some of the popular brake system upgrades are slotted disc brakes which are more heat resistant and quieter ceramic pads that also emit less brake dust.

5. Brake System Care

There are some external factors that can cause excessive wear to your braking system. Carrying too much weight and heavy breaking are just but some. It’s important that you avoid such situations to preserve your brakes and chances of brake failure.

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5 Important Things You Need to Know About Your Spare Tire

If you experience a flat tire, you can switch it out with a spare. However, driving on a spare tire is only a temporary solution. If you wait too long to replace your spare tire with a long-term solution, you could encounter a wide range of problems on the road.

What Should You Do If You Experience a Flat Tire?

If you hear a bumping or thumping sound coming from your car, you may be dealing with a flat tire. When this happens, remain calm, activate your car’s emergency flashers, slow down, and pull off to the side of the road. If possible, pull your vehicle into a parking lot. Or else pull onto the right shoulder as far as you can.

Remember, driving on a flat tire is dangerous, and it can cause long-term damage to your car. It also puts you and other drivers at risk of an accident or collision. So, when faced with a flat tire, exit the road until you can either replace the tire with a spare or get help from others.

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

The length of time you can drive on a spare tire depends on the tire itself. In fact, many spare tire options are available, including full-size, donut, and run-flat varieties.

Matching and non-matching full-size spare tires are the same size as the tires currently on your car. A matching full-size spare tire is exactly the same as the other tires on your car, while a non-matching spare is only the same size as your vehicle’s tires.

Comparatively, donut spare tires are narrow and compact, and they are designed to fit in the trunk of your car. Donut spare tires typically last for about 50 to 70 miles, and shouldn’t be driven at high speeds when using these tires.

Run-flat tires are commonly found on BMW and MINI cars. They are often stronger and more durable than other types of tires. If a run-flat tire gets punctured while you are driving, you can continue to drive safely for about 50 miles before your tire needs to be replaced.

5 Important Things You Need to Know About Your Spare Tire

If you experience a flat tire, you can switch it out with a spare. However, driving on a spare tire is only a temporary solution. If you wait too long to replace your spare tire with a long-term solution, you could encounter a wide range of problems on the road.

What Should You Do If You Experience a Flat Tire?

If you hear a bumping or thumping sound coming from your car, you may be dealing with a flat tire. When this happens, remain calm, activate your car’s emergency flashers, slow down, and pull off to the side of the road. If possible, pull your vehicle into a parking lot. Or else pull onto the right shoulder as far as you can.

Remember, driving on a flat tire is dangerous, and it can cause long-term damage to your car. It also puts you and other drivers at risk of an accident or collision. So, when faced with a flat tire, exit the road until you can either replace the tire with a spare or get help from others.

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

The length of time you can drive on a spare tire depends on the tire itself. In fact, many spare tire options are available, including full-size, donut, and run-flat varieties.

Matching and non-matching full-size spare tires are the same size as the tires currently on your car. A matching full-size spare tire is exactly the same as the other tires on your car, while a non-matching spare is only the same size as your vehicle’s tires.

Comparatively, donut spare tires are narrow and compact, and they are designed to fit in the trunk of your car. Donut spare tires typically last for about 50 to 70 miles, and shouldn’t be driven at high speeds when using these tires.

Run-flat tires are commonly found on BMW and MINI cars. They are often stronger and more durable than other types of tires. If a run-flat tire gets punctured while you are driving, you can continue to drive safely for about 50 miles before your tire needs to be replaced.

How Far Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

Tire manufacturers often put a 50-mile rating on their spare tires, which means you can safely drive with one of these spare tires on your car for up to 50 miles. Some tire manufacturers provide spare tires that perform for up to 70 miles, too. Check your tires for the exact mileage rating.

The quality of your spare tire dictates how far you can drive on it. For instance, a donut spare tire tends to be less durable than a full-size matching or non-matching spare tire. As such, a donut spare tire is more susceptible to damage than a full-size alternative if you are driving a long distance.

How Fast Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

Generally, 50 mph is the fastest you should drive on a spare tire. Although there are exceptions where the manufacturer states their tires can travel greater than 50 mph, doing so would increase the risk of a blowout, especially if the spare tire has been previously used. Thus, you should try to keep your car speed under 50 mph until you can replace your spare tire.

Spare Tires: What You Need to Know

You can experience a flat tire at any time, so it is crucial to pick up a spare tire that you can use as needed. As you search for the right spare tire for your car, here are five important things you need to know:

1. Spare Tires Must Be Maintained

Much in the way your car tires require periodic maintenance, you need to evaluate the condition of your spare tire regularly. To do so, you should check the pressure of your car’s spare tire every time you have your vehicle’s tires inspected and rotated.

2. Spare Tires Sometimes Get Recalled

Tire manufacturers sometimes recall their tires, so you need to keep an eye out for potential recalls. Recalls may be issued on all types of tires, and you can use the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association “Tire Recall Lookup” tool to track tire recalls online.

3. Spare Tires May Need to Be Replaced

A spare tire may need to be replaced, even if you have never used it. In most instances, a car’s spare tire should be replaced approximately every eight years. Your car’s manual can provide details about how frequently you should replace your vehicle’s spare tire.

4. Spare Tires May Activate Your Car’s Warning Lights 

When you place a spare tire on your car and start driving, your vehicle may activate the brake and anti-lock braking system (ABS) warning lights on your vehicle’s instrument panel. This can occur if a spare tire rotates faster than the other tires on your car. In this scenario, don’t panic. Instead, continue to drive safely, reach your destination, and replace your spare tire with a long-lasting solution.

5. Spare Tires Must Be Changed Properly

If you are unsure about how to replace a flat tire with a spare, there is no need to leave anything to chance. Because if you make a mistake when changing a flat tire and try to drive a car with an improperly installed spare, you could put yourself and others in danger.

If you are struggling to change a flat tire, reach out to a family member or friend for help. You can also contact roadside assistance if it is available via your insurance company or get in touch with a tow company for support.

A spare tire is crucial, and you should always keep one in your car. That way, if you experience a flat tire, you can use your spare to help you get where you want to go.

TIPS

What Are the 10 Common Causes of Car Overheating?

A car overheating is one of the common problems car owners and drivers face. The cooling system of your car is always under pressure and high temperature that may cause engine overheating problems over time.

 

Here are ten common causes that lead to a car engine overheating:

1. Leaks in the Cooling System

If you have a leak in the cooling system of your car, the coolant drips through the puncture, and air enters the system through the leak. This causes an airlock in the cooling system and makes it difficult for the coolant to push through the system to reach the engine, thus causing it to overheat.</p

2. Incorrect Coolant Concentration

Always use the correct type of coolant in your vehicle as well as remember to use the right mixture of coolant and distilled water.

3. Loose Coolant Hose Clamp

Having a loose clamp on your car coolant hose can also be a reason for engine overheating. The clamps tend to loosen up or even break over time, so be sure to replace them when you notice it loosening.

4. A Faulty Thermostat

If you have a faulty thermostat that remains closed, the coolant will not be able to pass through the system. This can result in your car engine overheating.

5. Clogged or Cracked Car Radiator

A car’s radiator pulls heat away from the rest of the cooling system. If it is not working correctly due to leaks and clogging, it can lead to car overheating.

6. Worn Out or Burst Hoses

Hoses that are worn out or have cracks will leave you with a leaky engine that will obstruct the coolant’s flow through the system and cause car overheating.

The primary function of a radiator fan is to pull air across the radiator to help reduce the coolant’s temperature. Therefore, if you have a faulty radiator fan, it will lead to engine overheating.

8. Loose or Broken Belts

If a belt is loose or broken, it will not maintain the correct volume of coolant flow and cause overheating.

9. A Faulty Water Pump

A water pump is often considered as the heart of your cooling system. If it’s not operating correctly, it can cause your vehicle to overheat.

10. Low Oil Level

Engine oil helps with the cooling process and avoids the buildup of excessive heat. It also keeps various parts of the engine properly lubricated, reduces friction, and overheating. So, your car can overheat if your oil levels are low.

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How To Know If Your Car Is Leaking Gas

Is your car leaking gas? If so, it’s important to find out where the leak is coming from and how to fix it. Otherwise, you could be putting yourself and others at risk.

In this article, we’ll show you how to identify and fix a gas leak in a car. A gas leak in a car is when fuel escapes from the system through a hole or crack.

Can You Drive A Car With A Gas Leak?

It’s not safe to drive a car with a gas leak. If the leak is bad enough, you could run out of gas and be stranded on the side of the road. Even if the leak is not that bad, you are still wasting gas (and money) every time you drive. It can lead to several problems, including:

1.     Reduced gas mileage

When your car leaks gas, it is not running as efficiently as it could be. This leads to reduced gas mileage and increased emissions.

2.     Engine damage

If the gas leak comes from the engine, it could cause severe damage.

3.     Fire hazard

A gas leak is a fire hazard. If there is a spark, the gas could ignite and cause an explosion. So, if you think your car is leaking gas, getting it fixed as soon as possible is important.

What Can Cause A Gas Leak In A Car?

A gas leak in your car can be a serious problem, and it is important to know what can cause it. Here are some of the most common causes of gas discharge in cars:

1. Faulty Fuel Tank

A faulty fuel tank can often cause gas discharge. If your fuel tank is damaged, it can cause gasoline to leak out.

2. Loose Fuel Cap

Another common cause of gas discharge is a loose fuel cap. If your fuel cap is not tight, it can allow gasoline to escape from the tank.

3. Leaking Fuel Line

Gasoline can also leak from a damaged or leaking fuel line. Fuel lines can become damaged over time, and if they are not properly maintained, they can develop leaks.

4. Damaged Carburetor

A damaged carburetor can also cause a gas leak. The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and gasoline to create the fuel mixture that powers your engine. If it is damaged, it can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

5. Faulty Intake Manifold

The intake manifold is another part of the car that can cause a gas leak. The intake manifold draws air into the engine and also mixes it with gasoline. If the intake manifold is damaged, gasoline can leak into the engine.

A damaged carburetor can also cause a gas leak. The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and gasoline to create the fuel mixture that powers your engine. If it is damaged, it can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

6. Cracked Exhaust Manifold

A gas leak can also be caused by a cracked exhaust manifold. The exhaust manifold collects the exhaust gases from the engine and directs them out of the car. If the manifold is cracked, it can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

7. Damaged Fuel Injectors

Gasoline can also leak from damaged fuel injectors. The fuel injectors are responsible for injecting gasoline into the engine. If they are damaged, they can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

8. Leaking Fuel Pump

The fuel pump is what pumps gasoline from the tank to the engine. When the fuel pump is leaking, it can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

9. Faulty Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring the oxygen content of the exhaust gases. If the sensor is damaged, gasoline can leak into the engine.

10. Damaged Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is responsible for converting the toxic gases in the exhaust into less harmful gases. If the converter is damaged, gasoline can leak into the engine.

These are just some of the most common causes of car gas leaking. If you think you have a gas discharge, it is essential to have it checked out by a mechanic immediately. Gas leaking can be hazardous and can cause serious damage to your car.

How To Fix A Gas Leak In A Car

If you have a gas leak in your car, it’s important to take care of it right away. A gas leak can be dangerous and can cause your car to catch on fire. Here are some tips on how to fix a gas leak in your car.

1.     Find the source of the leak

If you see gasoline leaking from your car, it’s important to find the source of the leak. The most common place for a gas leak is at the fuel line. Check the fuel line to see if there are any cracks or leaks.

2.     Replace the damaged part

If you find a crack in the fuel line, you will need to replace the damaged part. You can buy a new fuel line at your local auto parts store.

3.     Check for leaks in other areas

Once you have replaced the fuel line, it’s important to check for leaks in other areas of your car. Check the hoses and fittings to make sure they are tight. Also, check the gas tank to see if there are any leaks.

4.     Fix any other leaks

If you find any other leaks, it’s important to fix them as soon as possible. Leaks in the exhaust system can be dangerous and can cause your car to catch on fire.

5.     Check for leaks regularly

It’s important to check for leaks regularly. Gas discharge can be dangerous and can cause your car to catch on fire. So, it’s important to check for leaks often and to fix them as soon as possible.

6.     Be safe

If you have a gas leak, it is important to protect yourself. Gasoline is flammable and can cause your car to catch on fire. So, it’s important to be careful when handling gasoline. If you see gasoline leaking from your car, don’t try to fix it yourself. Call a tow truck or a mechanic to help you.

Signs Of A Gas Leak In A Car

When you’re driving, the last thing you want to think about is your car leaking gas. But, if you smell gasoline while you’re on the road, it’s important to take action immediately. Here are some signs of a gas leak in a car so you can be prepared:

1.     The smell of gasoline

This is the most obvious sign that there may be a gas leak in your car. If you notice a strong gasoline smell, pull over and investigate immediately.

2.     Lower fuel efficiency

If your car is leaking gas, it will have to refuel more often. Keep track of your mileage and how much gas you’re using to see if there’s a drop in fuel efficiency.

3.     Higher engine temperature

A gas leak can cause your engine to run hotter than usual. If you notice the temperature gauge on your dashboard climbing, pull over and check for a leak.

4.     Engine misfires

Another symptom of a gas leak is engine misfires. If your car starts to sputter or stall, it could be because there’s not enough gas reaching the engine.

5.     Visual leaks

If you can see gasoline dripping from your car, that’s a sure sign of a leak. Check under the hood and around the fuel tank for any signs of a leak.

5.     Visual leaks

If you can see gasoline dripping from your car, that’s a sure sign of a leak. Check under the hood and around the fuel tank for any signs of a leak.

TIPS

5 Tips & Tricks to Keep Your Car’s Transmission Healthy

Automatic transmission issues can take place in numerous forms. Each symptom can have a number of probable causes, some involving extensive repairs and some only needing an alteration or minimal service. Here are some simple precautions you can take to keep your transmission in tip-top shape.

1. Schedule Routine Maintenance.

This is vital to the long-term performance of your vehicle. Change your transmission fluid every 15,000 miles or once a year.

2. Keep Up With Transmission Flushes.

Changing your fluids is essential! Low fluids mean future difficulties. Be sure to address low transmission fluid as quickly as possible and avoid driving your vehicle when fluid is below the recommended level. A simple seal replacement could fix the issue and save you money on repairs in the future.

3. Stop Completely Before Shifting From Reverse To Drive.

When backing out of a parking spot, or anytime you’re in reverse, be sure to stop completely before shifting into drive. We all become fearful when we hear that frightful “engine drop.” Attempting to come to a complete stop between gears will prevent that unwarranted strain.

4. Don’t Ride The Brake.

When driving with your foot on the brake pedal, your transmission has to work harder. Also, utilize your emergency brake when parking on an incline to reduce stress on the parking linkage.

5. Keep Your Engine Accurately Tuned.

An issue with engine functionality can, at times, show symptoms comparable to a transmission problem as well as strain the transmission itself. A well running engine works hand in hand with a well running transmission.

Investing in the maintenance of your automatic transmission as well as receiving thorough inspections from your professional technician will only benefit you and the life span of your vehicle. When in doubt, always ask technical advice to ensure your transmission is serviced and repaired both correctly and economically.

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How to Adjust Your Mirrors Properly to Have Clear Visibility

There is a reason driver’s education teachers hound you about checking your mirrors. Your side and rear-view mirrors are among the most important safety features on your vehicle. Without them, you would only be able to view a fraction of the roadway at a time and your odds of a collision would skyrocket. While glancing from side to side and upwards every few seconds may be a bit awkward at first, developing the habit of correctly using your mirrors is a top priority.

Before you hit the road, you must adjust your side and rearview mirrors so that you have clear visibility in each of them. Here’s how:

How to Adjust Your Mirrors Properly

– Sit in the driver’s seat. Position the seat and steering wheel so that you are comfortable and have access to the gear shifter, brake pedal, and accelerator.

-Gently maneuver the rear view mirror so that you can see directly out of the middle of your back windshield without moving your head. The goal is to be able to quickly glance from the road in front of you to the road behind you without having to move or turn your body.

-Locate the levers or buttons that adjust the side mirrors. Many newer models have a small lever or joy-stick on the driver’s side door that electronically adjusts the side mirrors. Older models often require you to manually adjust them using a lever or by pressing on the mirror itself.

-Adjust the driver’s side mirror first. Make adjustments then sit back in the driver’s seat to ensure that you can see the road behind you and a small sliver of the side of your car.

-Next, adjust the passenger side mirror. If you have to adjust it manually, you may need to move between the passenger’s and driver’s seats until it is properly adjusted.

-After all mirrors have been adjusted, sit in the driver’s seat and look in each, starting with the driver’s side mirror. You should view everything behind you in segments as you glance along.

 

 

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TIPS

5 Tips for Driving in Heavy Rain

Rain may not seem all that dangerous to drive in, but in fact rain causes a large number of car accidents due to limited visibility, reduced roadway friction, and standing water. Follow these five tips for driving in heavy rain to keep you and your passengers as safe as possible.

1. Slow Down

The most important thing you can do to stay safe in inclement weather is to slow down. Rainy conditions create slick roads, increasing the amount of time it takes your car to come to a complete stop. Give yourself more following distance than you usually would, and adjust your speed so that you’ll have plenty of time to stop at traffic lights. Remember that the posted speed limit is for ideal driving conditions and isn’t always the right speed in the rain. If other cars are driving faster than you’re comfortable with, drive in the right lane so they can pass you safely.

2. Turn Your Lights On

It’s best practice to turn on your headlights any time you need to use your windshield wipers. In fact, it’s the law in some states! Rain makes it harder for other drivers to see your vehicle, especially if your car is a neutral color like silver or white. Turn on your headlights so that other drivers can see you and avoid a collision.

3. Avoid Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning is most common during the first few minutes of rainfall as the roads develop a slick layer of water and oil. If you wait a while before heading out, the rain will wash away the oil and other substances that got stirred up and the roads will become safer to drive on. However, you can still hydroplane if you’re driving too fast or you hit standing water. If you start hydroplaning, let off the gas and gently steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid jerking the steering wheel or hitting the brakes as these can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.

4. Don’t Drive Through Standing Water

It only takes a couple of inches of standing water to make your car lose control. Driving through standing water can not only cause you to hydroplane, but it can also cause damage to the engine and electrical components if water gets pushed up into your engine. Since it’s difficult to tell how deep standing water on the road is, and it only takes about a foot of water to sweep a car away, it’s recommended to never drive through water if you can’t see the painted markings on the road.

5. When in Doubt, Stay Off the Roads

If it’s raining so heavily that you can’t see clearly or you can’t safely handle your vehicle, pull over to a safe spot and wait for the worst of the storm to pass. If there is a risk of flash flooding, move to higher ground, leave your car, and find a safe place indoors. Never drive through flood waters, and never drive in conditions you don’t feel safe in.

Many drivers underestimate the dangers of driving in rain, leading to thousands of accidents every year. Remember these tips for driving in the rain and you’ll never be caught unprepared.

TIPS

12 Tips to Protect Your Car from Hail Damage 

You hear the weather report call for hail—and not just any old hail, either. We’re talking about monster, “golf ball-sized” hail that takes no prisoner. It’s the type of hailstorm that you wouldn’t wish upon your own worst enemy… yet your car is sitting in the driveway, uncovered, with only thoughts and prayers to keep it safeguarded from hailstones.

Wondering what you can do or use to keep your vehicle safe in a hailstorm? Here’s how to protect your car from hail and prevent excessive vehicle repair costs.

Is your vehicle in the driveway because you’ve had to forgo cleaning your garage due to work/school/pottery classes/baptisms/choir practice/whatever other responsibility or hobby you have? Instead of getting your hands dirty, you can choose to downsize to a smaller vehicle.

1) Go Small

Is your vehicle in the driveway because you’ve had to forgo cleaning your garage due to work/school/pottery classes/baptisms/choir practice/whatever other responsibility or hobby you have? Instead of getting your hands dirty, you can choose to downsize to a smaller vehicle.

Even the best deterrents and preventative measures may not be enough to protect your car from hail. If your vehicle’s become the victim of a hail-and-run in the Kansas City area, be sure to have it towed to a professional collision center or auto body shop near you that works with your insurance company. Contact McCarthy Collision Centers at 1-800-NEW-AGAIN, and we’ll do what we do best: Get you back on the road.

2) Always have adequate insurance coverage

Does car insurance cover hail damage? If you have opted for full comprehensive auto insurance, you should be covered. However, if you only have an auto liability policy, repairing dents or windshield damage from hail will likely come out of your pocket. Be sure to speak with your insurance agent prior to spring if you’d like to be financially protected from hail.

3) Don’t use rocks as weights

Instead of folding blankets into car doors and windows, people will sometimes use “heavy” rocks to keep blankets in place. This is a terrible idea. The blankets can easily grab wind and lift the rocks up; as you’d guess, that would leave your vehicle unprotected from both hail and the flying rocks.

4) Know where the closest indoor parking garage is

If you simply can’t hail-roof your car—whether that’s due to lack of time, resources or a general sense of post-2020 apathy—you should pay the small fee to park your car in a nearby parking garage or covered lot. The $5 or $10 fee is far less than the costs of paintless dent repair or hail dent removal.

5) Put plywood on your roof rack

If you own an SUV with a roof rack or crossbars, you can buy a cheap, 6-foot-long plywood board and attach it to the top. This will offer a little protection from hail dents on your roof, hood, and windshields, but you’re open to smashed windows and mirrors, as well as dents along the car’s side.

Note: It’s important to secure the plywood properly! Windy conditions will put lots of stress on flat objects like plywood, and if not adequately secured, it may cause more damage than the hail itself. It can also break apart and fly into other objects, vehicles, or homes.

6) Park under a tree

In storms, it’s not advisable to park under or near trees, as limbs can easily snap and fall onto your car, causing a significant amount of damage. However, if the upcoming hailstorm isn’t going to be accompanied by high winds and lightning, trees can offer a moderate amount of protection from hailstones.

Note: Hailstorms are usually accompanied by wind and potential lightning. Park under trees at your own risk.

7) Fold your side mirrors in

Hail can easily crack side-view mirrors, as they’re quite thin and flimsy. Folding them in will help to protect the reflective part, though the mirror’s casing will be at the mercy of Mother Nature.

8) Towels are an option

Use the same tactic as the blanket and fold all towels into the car securely. You may need to get creative here, as you’ll obviously have many more towels to secure down.

9) Cardboard boxes work

The rule of using cardboard as a hail protector is simple: Make sure the cardboard is thick and sturdy. With hail, you’ll likely get rain, and thin, cheap cardboard will absolutely disintegrate when it gets wet. A thicker panel of cardboard, like that of a corrugated appliance box, offers better survivability in hailstorms.

To support the cardboard on your car, consider attaching strings or bungee cords to door handles (pull them over the roof to attach each side).

10) Use floor mats or rugs on windows

If you don’t have enough (or large enough) blankets, you can mitigate some of the more major hail damage by using your car’s floor mats as a hail windshield cover. Put the softer, carpeted side on the window, and the hard rubberized side facing up. Hail hates rubber (so we heard).

11) Try a “hail blanket”

Purchasing a hail cover for your vehicle is an investment. On the cheap, you can try substituting that cover with a thick blanket. To ensure you have adequate vehicle coverage from hail, be sure to tuck the blanket ends into the door, under the hood, inside the trunk lid, and even in the windows. Close them tightly, ensuring you have access to door handles to reenter your vehicle once the storm passes.

Note: Do not duct tape blankets to your car! Some other “how to protect your car from hail” articles may suggest this, but it’s not good advice. The adhesive on duct tape can certainly peel away car paint, and the tape itself will be difficult to remove once the hail stops. Use the tactics above to get the best protection from hail with a blanket.

12) Buy a hail car cover

Do car covers protect against hail? You betcha. If you don’t have a place to shelter your vehicle, like a garage or even a covered parking spot (that you paid an arm and a leg for), a hail protection car cover may prevent shattered windshields and hail dents on your vehicle. Or, at a minimum, you’ll only be looking at minor hail damage to your vehicle.

You have several options for hail covers, including expensive products like this inflatable car cover for hail, the Hail Protector System ($400), as well as cheaper protectors like this multi-layer cover ($70).

We recommend OEM car covers that are designed to fit snugly around your specific model.

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7 Warning Signs You May Need a New Car Battery

Everything electronic in your vehicle relies on a properly functioning charging system. The fluctuating weather temperatures take a toll on your car’s battery. Hot summer heats can put a strain on your battery causing failure and the cold temperatures in the winter can cause a weak battery to fail faster than normal. The last thing you want to happen when hopping into your car, trying to turn on your vehicle, and not have it start due to a dead car battery. If your battery is getting older, here are 7 warning signs that your car battery may need to be replaced.

7 Warning Signs You May Need a New Car Battery

  1. When starting your vehicle, you notice the engine cranking slower than normal.
  2. Constant need to jump startyour vehicle.
  3. Extended use of interior lights along with the radio while the engine is not running, can cause the battery to drain.
  4. Rotten egg or sulfur smell can indicate a leaking or overheated battery.
  5. White/silvery powder like material around the battery post could indicate a problem and the battery should be checked.
  6. If the battery OR check engine light comes on, it’s time to have the battery and electrical system tested.
  7. Low battery fluid levels.

Be Proactive with your New Car Battery

When you have yournew car battery installed, be sure to:

  • Keep track of the batteries age. The average life of a car battery is 3-6 years.
  • Test your car battery periodically. As part of our complimentary Visual Vehicle Check, your car battery will be checked when you have your vehicle serviced at Sullivan Tire and Auto Service.
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