7 Tips to Keep Maintaining Your SUV It in Top Condition

SUVs are a popular choice among vehicle owners, thanks to their versatility and capability. Whether you use your SUV for daily commuting, family trips, or off-road adventures, keeping it in top condition is essential for both performance and safety. In this guide, we’ll share seven valuable tips to help you maintain your SUV’s optimal condition and ensure it serves you well for years to come.

1. Regularly Check and Change the Oil

Oil is the lifeblood of your SUV’s engine. Regularly check the oil level and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes. Clean and sufficient oil ensures smooth engine operation and prolongs its life.

 

2. Tire Maintenance is Key

Proper tire maintenance is crucial for SUVs, especially if you frequently go off-road. Regularly check tire pressure, alignment, and tread depth. Rotate your tires as recommended to ensure even wear and optimal grip.

 

3. Keep Up with Routine Servicing

Routine servicing is essential to address minor issues before they become major problems. Schedule regular check-ups and maintenance with a trusted car service provider to ensure your SUV runs smoothly.

 

4. Maintain the Braking System

Your SUV’s braking system plays a critical role in safety. Regularly check the brakes, including pads, rotors, and brake fluid. Address any issues promptly to ensure your vehicle stops reliably.

 

5. Check and Replace Filters

Air and cabin filters help maintain air quality and engine efficiency. Replace them as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer to ensure clean air intake and optimal engine performance.

 

6. Keep the Exterior Clean

Regularly wash and wax your SUV to protect its exterior from dirt, debris, and UV rays. A clean exterior not only looks great but also prevents premature wear and tear.

 

7. Drive Responsibly

Your driving habits also impact your SUV’s condition. Avoid aggressive driving, sudden stops, and excessive speed. Smooth and responsible driving can extend the life of your vehicle.

 

 

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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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3 SIMPLE STEPS TO CHECK BRAKE FLUID

Dehydration can make you feel sluggish and irritable, limiting your ability to think and move. Turns out, your car can suffer from dehydration too. Like your body, your car needs fluids to run at its best, fluids like motor oil, windshield wiper fluid, and brake fluid. But while you likely check your oil and wiper fluid every few months, how often do you check your brake fluid? If you’re like most drivers, not all that often.

Checking brake fluid is easier than you think and far more important than you could ever imagine. There’s a lot riding on maintaining optimal brake fluid levels, including your safety, your car’s responsiveness, and its overall lifespan. Without brake fluid, your car or truck won’t stop when you push the brake pedal. Talk about a serious hazard!

HOW TO CHECK BRAKE FLUID

Read on for three simple steps to checking your brake fluid at home. Please keep in mind that these instructions are general guidelines. Consult your owner’s manual for specific information about your vehicle.

  • LOCATE the brake fluid reservoir on your vehicle’s master cylinder, under the hood. Refer to the owner’s manual if you need help.
  • CHECK the brake fluid level against the “maximum” and “minimum” lines on the exterior of the reservoir. They might also be listed as “max” and “min” or similar terms, or represented by depth lines. If you see that the brake fluid is at or near the “minimum” line, it’s likely time for a brake service.
  • EXAMINE the color and clarity of your brake fluid. Old brake fluid tends to be muddy brown/black and looks like used motor oil. Like motor oil, brake fluid gets darker the more grime and debris it picks up. The dirtier it gets, the less effective it becomes. Dark brake fluid is a good sign you should consider a brake fluid flush. However, the only surefire way to know that you need a brake fluid exchange is by testing for copper levels in the fluid, a service that our friendly auto technicians can perform for you.

If checking your brake fluid level isn’t a DIY activity you’re comfortable with, no worries. Feel free to stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care and let our technicians take a look. It’s our job to make sure your brakes are doing theirs!

WHAT IF MY BRAKE FLUID IS LOW?

If you suspect your brake fluid level is low, it’s time to visit a professional, especially if the dashboard brake light has come on too! There could be a leak or your brake pads may need replacing. Either way, leaving it up to chance could mean a scary reduction in brake performance.

CAN I CHANGE MY OWN BRAKE FLUID?

Are you considering changing your brake fluid at home? While checking your brake fluid level can be simple, changing your brake fluid isn’t. Consider leaving a brake fluid refill, change, or flush to the professionals since doing so:

  • Can require a dozen or more tools, some of which are unique to the process.
  • Exposes you to a fluid that can be extremely toxic.
  • Threatens your vehicle’s paint job, since brake fluid can eat away at it.
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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.

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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.

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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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5 Driving Tips for Extreme Heat

The forecast in New Jersey: Hot and getting hotter. And, that can make for troublesome travel.

When the temperature increases, decrease your risk on — and off — the road with these safety tips:

1. Check your tires. You’re already checking your tire pressure every month, right? Even if you are (most of us don’t), keep a closer eye on them during the warm months. Heat can increase tire pressure rapidly.

2. Keep cool under the hood and inside your car. If you don’t remember the last time you had your engine coolant checked and flushed (mechanics recommend flushing and refilling every two years), now is probably a good time — before you hit the road. Give your air conditioning a test run, too. If it’s not cooling you down, get it serviced.

3. Act quickly if your car starts to overheat. When your car’s temperature moves above the halfway mark on the dashboard, try turning off your air conditioning and turning on your heat to give your engine a break. Pull over if it’s safe to do so, and give your engine even more of a break. Call for roadside assistance if there’s steam or smoke, and get away from the car if it’s smoke. More of a do-it-yourselfer? Be careful opening the hood of an overheated car, and don’t add coolant or water until the car cools down.

4. See to the comfort — and safety — of your passengers. Within just 10 minutes of parking your car on a 90-degree day, the interior temperature can hit 110 degrees. Don’t leave kids or pets in a parked car, even for just a few minutes, and bring plenty of water for the trip. The back seats and cargo areas of many cars don’t get as much air as the front seats, so make sure your kids, both human and furry, stay hydrated.

5. Proceed with caution in an electric car. High temperatures (and cold ones, too) can reduce the charge of your battery, sometimes by as much as 40 percent. You’ll want to take that into account when planning a trip.

Different seasons bring different car maintenance needs. Follow these tips to help make sure you and your car both stay cool in the heat.

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How to Protect Your Car From Sun Damage

There’s never a bad time to think about sun damage and your vehicle. Even now in the winter, the sun is still beating down on your car, truck, SUV or motorcycle, and damaging everything from the paint to the interior.

People who benefit from covered areas to park – public or private garages, covered spots, or even shade under a tree – also see reduced damage from exposure. That being said, not everyone has the ability to find a place to park and block the rays.

The good news is that there’s plenty that you can do even further to reduce the effects of the sun on your car. Here are a few ways to protect your interior, exterior, tires and yes, even the engine from damage brought on by the sun!

 

Exterior Sun Damage Protection

Obviously, the exterior of your vehicle suffers the most exposure to the rays of the sun. It’s built to withstand it – but heat and UV rays can still take their toll.

  • Wash Your Car Frequently
  • Hand Dry, Don’t Air Dry
  • Wax
  • Ceramic Coating

Interior Sun Damage Protection

Inside your vehicle, it’s more to do with covering up than chemicals. Obviously, you can’t just cover up the outside of your vehicle conveniently – but there’s plenty of preventative measures to take inside.

  • Seat Covers
  • Windshield Sun Shades
  • Regular Cleaning and Protecting: Especially plastics and rubbers
  • Leather Care

Wheels, Tires, Engine, and More

More than just looks can be affected by the sun. How your car runs and operates can also suffer from degradation from the sun.

  • Wheels: As many wheels feature the same paint and clear coat of the exterior, they can be degraded similarly. This means treating them the same! Wash, hand dry, and wax if possible.
  • Tires: Rubber in your interior gets punished by the sun – so no surprise that it punishes the rubber of your tires too. Regular use of tire dressing or rubber protectant will help prevent your tires from fading, cracking, or blistering.
  • Engine: While the engine isn’t directly affected by the sun – the damage the sun does elsewhere can put a strain on your engine. Make sure to check your battery, cooling system, belts, and other fluids regularly when the sun is beating down!

Protection During Car Transport

Sun damage isn’t just when you’re behind the wheel or when your vehicle is parked in your driveaway. It’s anywhere the sun is up, and your vehicle is in the open. Even when you are having it transported it is exposed to the sun’s rays.

A great way to prevent any additional sun damage during transport is by opting for one of our enclosed trailer options. We often talk about how these protect your vehicle from road debris, but they also protect your car from unnecessary sunlight exposure, heat, and UV rays. Using enclosed transport will get your car where it needs without unnecessary exposure.

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Safety Tips for Driving During a Thunderstorm

Stormy weather can be an inconvenience for several reasons, and driving may be one of your primary concerns. Decreased visibility and concurrent weather hazards such as hail, wind, and flash floods make braving the roads risky when thunder or lightning strikes.

Driving in a storm is best avoided altogether, and The American Safety Council suggests waiting out a storm with your vehicle parked and the emergency brake engaged.

 

Safety Tips for Driving in a Thunderstorm

While it is recommended that you wait for the storm to pass through before getting on the road, there are precautions you can take to reduce your risk of an accident.

  • Keep your doors and windows closed. It may seem obvious, but it is vital to make sure you are safely enclosed in your vehicle should lightning strike.
  • Drive slowly, preferably below the speed limit. As traction issues, puddles, and wind can affect your position on the roadway, make sure that you decrease your speed.
  • Don’t tailgate. While this tip is consistent with general driving practices, it is especially important when driving in bad weather. Make sure to leave the appropriate amount of space between your car and the car in front of you.
  • Turn your lights on. With decreased visibility during a storm, it is important to turn on your headlights.
  • Follow local hazard light laws. Familiarize yourself with laws regarding hazard lights, as states like Florida, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, among others, prohibit the use while driving. Hazard lights have the potential to cause more confusion, leading other drivers to think your car is braking, turning, or stopped on the roadway.
  • Wait to cross bridges. During a storm, bridges are more likely to collapse. Avoid bridges if possible until the storm has passed.
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10 Basic Car Maintenance Tips You Must Know

Taking care of your car is, in many ways, like taking care of your health. While it is important to take your car to the shop for regular maintenance, as well as obvious emergencies, it is equally important to develop some basic habits for keeping your car in top shape at home.

1. Keep an Eye on the Fluids

Keeping the motor oil, power steering fluid, and coolant topped off is an easy way to maintain your car’s performance. Refer to your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic to show you how to check your fluid levels and where to pour in more if needed.

2. Owner’s Manual

Periodic references to your owner’s manual are extremely valuable. There is so much going on with our vehicles that no one can be expected to remember all of it.

3. Watch the Warning Lights

Cars have elaborate systems of sensors and warning lights that will tell you everything from whether you forgot to replace the gas cap to the fact that one of your tires is low on air. Learn what each of your warning lights means and how to resolve it.

4. Check the Tire Pressure

Correct tire pressure is absolutely essential for proper vehicle handling, and to minimize the risk for premature wear and even complete tire failure (blowouts). Yet tires lose air every day. Your car might have a tire pressure warning system, but it will engage only when a tire drops down to a dangerously low-pressure level.

5. Feel the Car’s Operation

Pay attention to the way your car feels when it is operating normally. Once you understand this baseline, you can begin to notice when something is wrong. When a new “feel, vibration, shudder, jerk, bump or hesitation sets in these are all signs that something has changed.

6. Listen to Your Car

Machines do communicate audibly – they make all sorts of “Normal” sounds so when abnormal sounds begin to appear this is your car telling you to take it to your trusted car care center.

7. Lighting Check

Inspect exterior and interior lighting once a month. Also, refer to your owner’s manual for a proper understanding of all lighting systems used in your car. This might seem simple and intuitive but some lighting systems only come on under certain conditions.

8. Do a Walk Around

Driving is a serious business therefore it’s a good idea to walk around your vehicle at least once per week. In fact, commercial drivers are required to do pre and post-trip inspections each day.

  • Look for body damage.
  • Check your wiper blades to ensure that they are still in good shape.
  • Inspect tires for abnormal wear, punctures or cuts.
  • Test all the locks, windows, and even the sunroof (if equipped) to make sure they operate easily without sticking.(You may need a window for an exit in a wreck)

9. Keep It Clean

Taking care of cosmetic details such as washing and waxing helps to improve the life of your car’s paint, and can prevent the formation of rust.

  • There is no substitute for mechanically washing your car – hand washing. Hand washing removes the film that makes paint appear dull.
  • Wash wheels and tires.
  • Wash glass – inside and out (including mirrors).
  • Keep the interior free from debris that can obstruct your feet on the control pedals.
  • Vacuum the floors.
  • Remove leaves from vents.

In addition, the better your car looks and smells, the more money it will be worth in an eventual trade-in.

10. Find a Trusted Mechanic

It is absolutely vital to your car’s health as well as your financial health for you to form a relationship with a mechanic you trust. Working with the same mechanic throughout your car’s life lets he or she get to know your car, its full history, and its individual quirks. This can make troubleshooting easier and help your mechanic quickly hone in on just the right solution.

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