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.

TIPS

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

TIPS

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.
TIPS

Don’t Leave These Items in a Hot Car!

As the summertime and hot temperatures become more frequent, the most common reminders for drivers are to be aware of how warm a vehicle can get while parked in the sun and to never leave a child or pet inside that car or truck.

In addition, however, there are many other common items left or stored in a vehicle that hot weather can severely damage, destroy, or even cause to explode.

  • Sunglasses—Plastic frames can soften and warp, changing the fit to your face. Plastic lenses can also warp, making them unusable. Sunglasses with metal frames can get so hot that they can’t be worn until they cool down.
  • Sunscreen—When sunscreen is left in a car, the heat can change its active ingredients, making it less effective or not effective at all.
  • Medicines – Any prescription or non-prescription medicine should be kept at no more than 77 degrees unless it is a medication that needs to be refrigerated, like some insulins, heart and thyroid drugs. Heat can cause the medication to lose its effectiveness.
  • Cosmetics – Make-up can melt and separate, making it unusable.
  • Aerosol Cans – Hairspray, sunscreen, paint, or any material in a pressurized can may explode when temperatures exceed 120 degrees. Personal protection devices such as pepper sprays also fall into this category.
  • Electronics – Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and other electronic devices do not deal well with high temperatures. Batteries and other components inside the device can leak and fail, turning the device into a paperweight. Heat-related damage may not be covered under warranties.
  • Batteries – Face the same issues as electronics. Batteries can deform, leak, and even explode when exposed to high heat for long periods of time.
  • Pens, markers, and crayons – Heat will deform plastic pens and markers. Ink will either evaporate or leak. Crayons will melt into a gooey mess and then harden once temperatures drop.
  • Food—Groceries or leftovers should be considered UNSAFE if left in a hot car for more than an hour. Snacks and candy, especially chocolate, will melt into a gooey mess.
  • DVDs and CDs – These can warp and become unplayable.
  • Beer and Wine—Both of these beverages change composition above 78 degrees. Wine quickly turns into a sour vinegar-like liquid, and beer also turns sour. Cans and bottles may explode if kept at high temperatures for long periods of time, and other alcoholic spirits can change under high heat.
  • Canned and Bottled Soda—High heat can affect the taste and consistency of carbonated drinks. Heat can also affect some soda ingredients, changing the flavor of the drink. In extreme heat, cans and bottles can explode due to heat creating extreme pressure inside the container.
  • Plastic Water Bottles – Avoid using plastic water bottles that have been exposed to sunlight and/or heat. Some bottles can release small amounts of the substance BPA, which has been linked to health risks in high amounts. Avoid this by purchasing BPA-free water bottles or a glass container.
  • Cigarette/Cigar Lighters – Disposable or refillable, the pressurized flammable material will expand under high heat conditions. These can burst and even explode.
  • Credit/debit cards – High heat can cause these to warp or deform and become unusable – even if they’re the new “chip” style card.
  • Latex gloves or other latex items—Latex rubber has a relatively low melting point, so gloves and other latex items can lose their ability to protect or provide a barrier.

One suggestion is to keep an insulated ice chest or cooler in the trunk or back seat of the vehicle. This can offer some short-term protection for items that are exposed to the heat.

And never, never, ever leave children, pets, or the elderly in a car parked in the sun. Not even for a minute.

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Fourth of July Travel Safety Tips

The Fourth of July is a time for celebrating and honoring our country, with many gathering with friends and family, and some travelling to summer destinations. As the holiday approaches, it is important to be aware of the hazards that accompany major holidays, and of the risks of being on the road in the summer heat. Take a moment to review these travel safety tips to ensure the Fourth of July holiday period is as safe and carefree as possible. Remember to call 511 or 911 if you need assistance.

Sometimes with holiday celebrations comes alcohol consumption. Tragically, from 2018 to 2022, there were 2,228 people killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday period. To avoid substance-related incidents:

  • Arrange a sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol.
  • Intervene if you see someone attempting to operate a vehicle while intoxicated.
  • Safely pull over and call 9-1-1 if you suspect a driver on the road to be driving under the influence.

The Fourth of July also brings summer heat that drivers must account for in their travel plans, so keep the following summer driving tips in mind:

  • Always check that the AC is in working order before leaving for a trip.
  • Never leave children or animals in the car, even for a few minutes.
  • High temperatures can affect tire pressure, increasing the likelihood of a blowout, so keep an eye on your tire pressure throughout your trip.
  • Check the cooling system, fluid levels, batteries, lights, and wiper blades.
  • Plan the route ahead to avoid major road congestion and have stopping points planned.
  • Stock the car with plenty of water and snacks, especially when travelling with children.

Holiday weekends should be a time to relax and enjoy quality time with friends and family, and planning for safety helps to ensure smooth sailing on all fronts. Keep these tips in mind as we enter the Fourth of July holiday period to ensure roadway safety.

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5 Tips to Take Care of Your Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers are vital necessities that help keep you safe on the road. When neglected, dull wiper blades can cause problems during a sudden downpour, which is why keeping them properly maintained is so important. Here are a few of our top windshield wiper care tips to help ensure your wipers are always ready to go.

Defrost and Scrape Before Using the Wipers

Windshield wipers tend to stick when there’s been heavy snow or ice, causing them to snap if you turn them on before defrosting the windshield. In freezing temperatures, run the defroster first and scrape away any snow or ice, if necessary. It’s helpful if you warm up the car ahead of time with the defroster on high, especially if you have an early morning commute.

 

Replace the Blades at Least Twice a Year

Wiper blades are only designed to last about six months. After that, you’ll start to notice a decline in your driving visibility. To help combat this problem, buy replacements every six months and change them on time. You’ll also need to keep an eye on the blades for signs of early wear, such as smearing, skipping, or squeaking across the glass. The process is so easy, in fact, that you can do it yourself with a little practice.

Keep the Windshield Clean

Your car’s wiper blades are going to wear more quickly if they’re wiping across filthy glass. To help prolong their longevity, clean your windshield every time you stop to fill up at a gas station. Most stations provide a squeegee specifically for this use, so take advantage of it. Just be sure to inspect the sponge before use and wipe it with a paper towel when needed, as communal squeegees can harbor small rocks and other debris that can scratch your windshield.

Never Run the Wipers on a Dry Windshield

Windshield wipers are designed to be used when the windshield is wet. Operating them on a dry surface can cause the wipers to wear out much more quickly than they would normally, which only causes extras headaches. When you do need to clean a dry windshield, such as when there’s pollen buildup on the glass, press the washer button first. This will require you to keep your car topped up on windshield washer fluid, which is another thing to remember as part of your wipers’ routine maintenance.

Reposition the Blades During the Winter Months

Dealing with frozen windshield wipers is the last thing you want to be doing before work on a cold winter morning. To prevent this problem, pull the wiper blades away from the windshield the night before a freeze. This keeps the rubber squeegee part of the blades from freezing to the glass, and it makes it easier to scrape away any ice and snow.

Taking care of your car requires paying attention to the little things. When it comes to your windshield wipers, getting into a routine and being vigilant can ensure they’re always ready to go when you need them.

TIPS

Why Did My Gas Gauge Stop Working?

Have you ever found yourself on a long drive, glancing nervously at the gas gauge as it sits dangerously close to empty? You’re not alone.

But what happens when the gas gauge stops working? It’s a scenario we’d all rather avoid, but it’s better to be prepared. Understanding how our vehicle’s gas gauge works and why it may stop working is essential knowledge for any driver. This article will delve into the common causes of gas gauge failure, providing practical advice and precautionary measures to help you avoid such situations.

What is a gas gauge and how does it work?

The gas gauge — an essential component in your vehicle — plays a vital role in alerting you when it’s time to refuel. It’s part of a complex system made of 3 main components: the gauge, the sender, and the circuit. These components work together to keep you informed of how much fuel is left in your tank. But problems can occur.

Common gas gauge problems

The most common causes of faulty gas gauges include sending unit failure, a blown fuse, circuit problems, and instrument cluster failure. We’ll discuss each in detail below.

Bad fuel sending unit

A faulty fuel gauge resistor in the sending unit can send full voltage to the fuel gauge at all times, causing it to read as full regardless of the actual fuel level. Other symptoms of a faulty fuel-sending unit include a fuel gauge getting stuck on empty or full and the fuel gauge behaving erratically. It’s like having a broken watch that either always reads 12 o’clock or jumps from time to time randomly.

Blown fuse

One common cause of a blown fuse is corrosion. Over time, elements such as moisture and salt can cause corrosion, leading to electrical issues that can blow a fuse. Once the fuse for the instrument panel is blown, it can affect the fuel gauge, making it read incorrectly or not at all.

Corroded wires and circuit issues

Corroded wires are typically caused by exposure to moisture, chemicals, or environmental factors such as salt or pollution. When corrosion occurs, it can lead to voltage and current flow degradation. When corrosion interferes with the electrical flow in your vehicle’s wiring, it can cause the gas gauge to read incorrectly.

Circuit issues can also lead to problems with your gas gauge. These issues could stem from a lack of source voltage or an interrupted ground. If the circuit delivering information between the sending unit (fuel level sensor) and the gas gauge is interrupted, the gauge may provide inaccurate readings. One common cause of circuit problems is poor-quality wire insulation.

Instrument cluster failure

Instrument cluster failure is the least common cause of gas gauge failure. However, if it does occur, it’s often the most expensive problem to fix. This is because modern instrument clusters are fully integrated circuits and may not even feature replaceable bulbs. If the gas gauge fails as part of the cluster, the entire unit must be replaced.

Can you drive with a faulty gas gauge?

The most obvious risk of driving with a faulty gas gauge is running out of fuel unexpectedly. This could potentially leave you stranded on the side of the road. More than the inconvenience of being stuck, running your vehicle on low fuel can cause the fuel pump to overheat.

Also, if your gas gauge isn’t working properly, allowing your tank to be constantly close to empty, debris can settle at the bottom of your fuel tank and cause problems with your fuel system.

How to fix a gas gauge

There are several tests to check the gas gauge. Be sure to consult with a professional if you’re not experience with safe vehicle maintenance practices. They include:

  • Instrument cluster self-test: Turn the ignition switch on but don’t start the engine. Press and hold the odometer reset button. After a few seconds, the gauges and lights on the instrument panel will go through a series of checks. Pay close attention to the fuel gauge during this process. If it does not move or behaves erratically, there might be an issue with the instrument cluster.
  • Fuel sender unit test: Disconnect the wire that runs from the sender unit to the gas gauge. Ground this wire and turn on the ignition. If the gas gauge moves to the full position, the sender unit could be faulty.
  • Voltage test: Using a multimeter set to 20V DC, test the wiring going to the gauge. If it’s not receiving 12 volts, the gauge could be faulty.
  • Ground wire test: Check the ground wire and ensure that it’s properly connected. If this wire is loose or disconnected, it can cause the gas gauge to give inaccurate readings.

Your gas gauge may seem like a small detail in your car, but its role is critical. It ensures that you are informed about your vehicle’s fuel level and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns. Make sure to routinely check that it’s running properly to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Lastly, don’t forget to protect yourself and your vehicle with the right auto insurance for your needs.

TIPS

4 Tire Care Tips for the Summer

When it comes to your car tires, it’s important to be extra cautious and mindful, especially during the blazing heat of summer. The intense hot weather can harm your tires and even raise the chances of them blowing out. That’s why it’s important to prioritize your car’s safety to prevent accidents and enjoy a pleasant summer journey. There are several steps you can take to ensure your tires stay in great condition and work well during the summer.  And this how you can take care of your tires:

1. Get Tire Rotation

One of the best ways to make the most of your tires and keep them from wearing out too quickly is by getting regular tire rotation. You should aim to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 6,000 miles. A common rotation method involves moving the front tires to the back or the back tires to the front, while keeping them on the same side of the car.

2. Ensure the Correct Tire Pressure

The temperature outside can change the air pressure inside your tires, making them either fill up or get less air. But if you regularly check your tire pressure, you can keep the right amount of air inside them and prevent your tires from wearing out too quickly. When you check the pressure, it’s best to do it when the tires are cold and haven’t been driven on for a while. This way, you’ll get the most accurate measurement. If you check the pressure when the tires are hot from driving and constantly rubbing against the road, the heat and friction can make the reading wrong.

3. Replace Your Tires Promptly When Needed

Over time, all tires experience wear and tear. The more you use them and the changes in seasons can make them deteriorate faster, which is something you can’t avoid. However, it’s important to carefully inspect your tires to look for signs of damage such as tread separation, cracks, or bulges on the surface. Using worn-out tires can lead to problems like longer stopping distances, less grip on the road, and brakes that don’t respond well. So, if you notice issues with alignment or air pressure, it’s a good idea to replace your tires.

4. Examine the Tire Tread

When you first get a new tire, it usually has a tread depth of around 10/32” or 11/32”. However, as you drive regularly, the tread depth gradually becomes shallower. It’s important to keep an eye on the tread depth and make sure it doesn’t go below 2/32”, as this can pose safety risks. Before going on long drives, take a close look at the tread wear. Also, run your hand over the tires to check for any uneven wear. Ideally, the surface should feel smooth and even.

TIPS

Dangerous heat in cars can be lethal to people and pets

With the summer sizzle well underway, and heat indices in the triple digits more and more, the National Weather Service wants to remind you of some important safety tips for the people and pets you love.

It seems like a no-brainer, don’t leave anyone or any pet in your car. But so far this year, 18 children have died nationwide after being found in a hot car. And hundreds of pets die each year from heat stroke because they are left in a car by their owners. While most of us know the dangers of a hot car, the National Weather Service warns that this time of year, all of us need a reminder.

The temperature inside of a car can reach critical levels putting people and your pet at risk of serious illness or death in less than 10 minutes, even on a day that doesn’t seem that hot to you. And even in the winter months too. Children can either be left accidentally in the car, or may find their way into one while playing and find themselves unable to get out. With the hot and humid weather expected, vehicle temperatures can reach lethal levels in a very short time.

Small children can’t remove their own clothing, tell people they’re too warm, or get out by themselves. Dogs can’t sweat to cool down, and their body temperature can rise to dangerous levels even if the windows are cracked. Heatstroke is a medical emergency that can lead to brain damage or death if not treated immediately. In 2023, 29 children died from heatstroke in cars.

Let’s talk about dogs. All dogs begin to experience heat stress when the air temperature exceeds 85 F. On a 70-degree day, the temperature inside of your car can climb to 90 F in just 10 minutes. At just 6 minutes, your dog can already start to exhibit signs of heat exhaustion. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the temperature inside your car can rise almost 20 F in just 10 minutes, and almost 30 F in 20 minutes.

In about an hour, the temperature inside your car can exceed the temperature outside by 40 F. So, even on a comfortable 70-degree day with your car parked in the shade, the temperature inside can top 110 F in just 60 minutes!

Let’s say you have to make a stop at the store and you’ll be gone for just 20 minutes on an 80 F day. In that 20 minutes the temperature inside your vehicle has climbed to 109 F. On a 90 F day, just 10 minutes equals that same 109 F.

  • Here are some tips to keep people and pets safe in hot cars:
  • Never leave children or pets unattended
  • Check the entire vehicle: Before locking the doors, make sure everyone is out of the car, especially in the back seat
  • Put something you need in the back seat: This will encourage you to open the back door when you arrive
  • Use a car with sensors: Some cars have apps that can alert you if someone is in the back seat

A good rule of thumb? When it’s 70 F and over, don’t take Rover. And always look before you lock! That way all pets and people can be safe

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