When to Replace Your Tires

New tires are an inevitable expense, but telling when it’s time to get new tires may not be widespread knowledge to all drivers. Conflicting information from friends and family, from what you read online, etc. may make diagnosing your tire situation a dubious task.

Here are the five telltale signs you should check to determine if you need new tires.

1. Low tire tread depth

To test tire tread depth insert a quarter upside down into the tread. If it doesn’t cover George Washington’s hairline, it means the tread is less than 4/32 of an inch deep, and it’s about time to bite the bullet and get new tires. In many states, just 2/32 of an inch is considered the minimum legal tread depth. However, more tread is safer.

Tests conducted showed a car going 70 miles per hour with tread of 2/32 of an inch took 5.9 seconds to stop and required a distance nearly double that of a vehicle with new tires. Meanwhile, with treads that were 4/32 of an inch, while it still took 100 feet more to stop and 1.2 seconds longer, this was much better than what was achieved with the minimal 2/32 of an inch tread.

2. Tires are old

No matter how rock-solid the tires were when you first purchased them, time leaves its mark. With age, rubber becomes brittle. In addition, the tire’s reinforcing cords can weaken over time. It’s important to know how often to replace your tires. Even if the tread appears intact, most manufacturers advise you to replace your tires after six years.

If you look at the side of the tire, you’ll see the manufacturer’s code. The last four numbers here indicate the production date. If this is 3009, for example, it means that the tire was produced in the 30th week of 2009 and it may be time to get new tires. In more severe climates where you may routinely deal with extreme heat, the ultraviolet rays of the sun may impart structural changes in your tires. This may mean that you will have to make the change sooner.

3. Tire sidewall cracking

Look beyond the tread to the sidewall of the tires. Are there any noticeable cuts or grooves? If so, you may be wise to purchase new tires, since these can be signs that a leak is developing or that the tire is weakening and may soon blowout.

4. Bulge in tire sidewall

If the tire has begun to weaken, sometimes the rubber may begin to bulge. This is a red flag, indicating that the tire has begun to fail and may unexpectedly blow out at any time, putting you and your passengers in jeopardy.

5. Vibrations while driving

Has the ride recently seemed very rough or have you noticed vibrations while driving? If so, this can be a sign that your tires are indeed shot, and it’s time to put aside your skepticism and get new ones.

TIPS

Seven Tips to Make Your Teen a Better Driver

Putting a teenager behind the wheel can be nerve-racking for parents – and justifiably so. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that teens crash three times as often as drivers aged 20 and older. But there are things you can do to help keep them safe. Follow these seven tips to help your kids hit the road with the skills they need.

Tip #1: Drive as much as possible with them when they have their permit.

A study by the University of North Carolina’s Highway Safety Research Center found a sharp decline in crashes among young people who participated in about 110 hours of supervised driving before getting their license. And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that the risk of accident is far greater during a rookie driver’s first month. Make sure they’ve had maximum practice before they hit the road solo.

Tip #2: Limit the total teenage passenger count.

A survey by the American Automobile Association (AAA) Foundation for Traffic Safety determined that having other teens in the car can put a young driver at added risk. Friends can be distracting and cause the driver to underestimate potentially dangerous situations. So talk to your kids about tuning out their friends while they’re driving and consider limiting the number of passengers they’re allowed to have in the car.

Tip #3: Take steps to stop texting.

While everyone knows that texting while driving is dangerous, teens still do it: The AAA study found that distracted driving accounts for 58% of all crashes involving teens. You may want to consider requiring that your teen’s cell phone be turned off, stowed in the glove compartment when driving, or have them appoint a designated texter – if they have a passenger, hand off the device to him or her so the driver can still respond hands-free. And practice what you preach; if kids see you texting at the wheel, they won’t take you seriously when you insist they don’t.

Tip #4: Talk to teens about ALL kinds of distracted driving.

Texting while driving is dangerous, but it’s important that you talk to your teen about other distractions. The AAA found that searching for objects inside the vehicle, searching for an address, grooming and singing along with the radio can all increase the risk of accident. It’s also helpful to make sure your teen understands the importance of keeping volume at a reasonable level so he or she can hear car horns and emergency vehicles.

Tip #5: Get them in the seat-belt habit.

Few kids will ride a bike without wearing a helmet, but they’re less conscientious about using seatbelts. While seatbelt use reached a record high of 87% in 2013 and 2014, the U.S. Department of Transportation found that teens use seatbelts less than other age groups. Seatbelts reduce risk of death in a crash by 45% and of moderate-to-critical injury by 50%. So get them in the habit: everyone buckle up before starting the car.

Tip #6: Offer late-night pickup service.

To reduce bad decisions, make it easy for your teens to call home for the Mom & Dad Taxi Service – any time. Teens hear “don’t drink and drive” all the time. But even if they’re not drinking, they may find themselves in situations where their driver is. Make sure your kids know they can avoid getting into a vehicle with a drunk driver, and that they can count on you for a safe ride no matter what.

Tip #7: Be a non-aggressive driver – and set an example.

Perhaps the most overlooked, but arguably most important action a parent can take to keep their teens safer behind the wheel is to walk the walk. The Automobile Association of America reported that 56% of car accidents are the result of aggressive driving. If you lash out, tailgate, cut someone off or drive angrily, your kids may mimic your behavior. Instead, teach them how to remain calm and avoid aggressive drivers.

TIPS

8 Tips for Safe Travels this Memorial Day Weekend

With more people on the roads, it’s important to drive safely. Be well rested and alert, use your seat belts, observe speed limits, and follow the rules of the road. 

Other tips for safe travels include:

  1. Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
  2. Use caution in work zones.
  3. Don’t follow vehicles too closely.
  4. Clean your vehicle’s lights and windows to help you see.
  5. Turn your headlights on as dusk approaches. or during inclement weather.
  6. Don’t let your vehicle’s gas tank get too low. If you have car trouble, pull as far as possible off the road/highway.
  7. Carry a disaster supplies kit in your trunk (i.e. charged cell phone, tire gauge, jumper cables, duct tape, water, blanket, nonperishable snacks).
  8. Let someone know where you’re going (your route and when you expect to get there).

We wish everyone a Happy Memorial Day weekend, and safe travels!

TIPS

How to Keep Your Car from Overheating and What to Do if It Happens

Most drivers have seen it before – a car pulled over on the side of the road with steam or smoke pouring from beneath the hood, the owner looking on nervously. An overheating car isn’t a pretty sight, but what should you do if it happens to you? And what can you do to ensure it doesn’t happen in the first place? We’ll answer both questions and more in this article.

What causes a car to overheat?

Before we get into how overheating can be responded to and prevented, let’s talk about how it actually happens. Your car is designed to resist overheating, so if it has begun to get too hot, that’s often an indication that something is amiss. Here are a few common causes as to why your car may be running hot:

Coolant

Every modern car is made with a coolant system that helps keep internal temperatures from climbing too high. Leaks, blockages or pump malfunctions in this system can all result in your engine overheating.

Car thermostat

The coolant in your engine is regulated by your car’s temperature gauge, which determines how much is necessary to maintain an appropriate temperature. If anything is wrong with this system, it could be misreading the proper amount of coolant to provide.

Low motor oil

Most drivers know oil plays a crucial role in lubricating a car’s moving parts, but it also removes excess heat from the engine. Accordingly, low oil levels can correspond with high engine temperatures.

Radiator cooling fan

As the name suggests, your radiator fan works to cool your car’s internal temperatures. If it stops running, or even runs at improper levels, that can be enough to cause your car to overheat.

If you’re unsure what’s causing your car to overheat, it’s always a good idea to find a reliable mechanic who can diagnose and service your car, and get protection in case your car overheats while you’re on the road.

What happens when a car overheats?

Fortunately, most cars will not overheat without letting you know. There are several noticeable signs:

  • Steam or smoke coming from beneath your car’s hood
  • A burning or sweet odor coming from your car engine
  • The needle on your temperature gauge pointing toward the red, or “H”, depending on the design of your car

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait to see if they get worse! Pull over right away and turn your car off to give it a chance to cool down.

What to do when your car overheats

If your car begins to overheat, it’s important to act fast. Running on high heat for too long can cause serious damage and potentially put you and your passengers at risk. Follow these steps at the first sign of overheating:

  • Pull over at the first safe location, put your car in park, and turn off your engine. You’ll want to wait at least 10 minutes to give your car a chance to cool off.
  • Pop your hood and leave it open to allow the hot air to dissipate faster.
  • After you’ve given your car a chance to cool, turn your power back on by rotating your key to its first position in the ignition. This will allow you to check your temperature gauge and see if it has dropped to a safe level without actually turning your engine back on. If your gauge reads a safe temperature and your fluid levels are normal, try starting your engine.

How to keep your car from overheating

Overheating poses a risk to both you and your car, so it’s best to avoid that situation in the first place. From preventative maintenance to tricks you can use in a pinch, there are many ways to help your car stay cool. Here are some of the easiest ways to do it:

  1. Check your temperature gauge – You’ve probably looked at your car’s temperature gauge countless times without taking much notice, but it’s there for a reason! If you ever see the needle point towards the red portion of the dial, that’s a sure sign it’s time to pull over and give your engine a chance to cool off.
  1. Turn on the heat – You read that right, turning on the heat really can help cool off your engine in a pinch. Doing this pulls hot air out of your engine compartment, ultimately cooling your engine. It’s not an ideal solution for you or your passengers, but worth keeping in mind for long drives on hot days.
  1. Add engine coolant – Coolant is the fluid that helps keep your engine from overheating, located in the coolant reservoir under your car’s hood. If temperatures are rising, it’s always a good idea to check your coolant level, indicated by lines on the side of the reservoir. If you’re low, you can add extra coolant yourself, although you should always be careful not to do so if your engine is hot.
  1. Have a mechanic flush your radiator – Just like oil, coolant becomes dirty over time and needs replacing. A mechanic can do this for you in a procedure called a radiator flush, where the old coolant is drained, the radiator is flushed with a cleaning fluid, and new coolant is added. Check your owner’s manual for specifics on how often your vehicle needs this done.
  1. Consider replacing your car’s battery – The less power there is in your battery, the harder your car has to work, putting it at risk of overheating. This may begin to occur if your battery is older than 3 years. Your mechanic can advise you on whether your battery is ready to be replaced. Find out when to change your car battery.
  1. Check the drive belt – Coolant circulates within your car’s engine thanks in part to the drive belt. If your drive belt isn’t functioning properly, there’s a good chance your engine could overheat.
  1. Check the brakes – Ever heard of sticking brakes? Brakes might not be the first place you’d think to look if your engine overheats, but stuck brake calipers can create enough extra drag on your engine to eventually generate a lot of heat. If your mechanic can’t find anything wrong with your engine itself, ask them to take a look at your brakes.
  1. Add engine oil – Coolant doesn’t turn down the temperature all on its own! Engine oil is also responsible for removing excess heat, so if your oil levels dip, your engine temperature may rise enough to cause overheating.
  1. Check the vehicle’s thermostat – Your engine regulates its temperature using an internal thermostat, a valve that controls the flow of coolant. If the thermostat malfunctions, insufficient coolant in your engine can cause overheating.
  1. Get professional maintenance regularly – Many of the issues we’ve just covered can be caught early and prevented by routine maintenance. Have a professional mechanic service your vehicle annually and overheating will be far less likely.
TIPS

How to Replace a Brake Light

Have you ever had a brake light go out and were not sure what to do next? It can seem intimidating, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can replace that brake light in no time. Keep reading for a comprehensive guide on changing your brake light, including step-by-step instructions, the tools you’ll need and replacement tips.

TIPS

4 Effects Traffic Jams Have on Your Car

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

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

1. Gas Waste

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

2. Wears Out Brakes

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

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

3. Fluids

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

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

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

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

4. Drive Belt

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

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

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

DOES AC AFFECT GAS MILEAGE?

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

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

HOW AIR CONDITIONING AFFECTS FUEL CONSUMPTION

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

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

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

UNDERSTANDING GAS MILEAGE AND EFFICIENCY

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

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

TIPS FOR IMPROVING GAS MILEAGE WHILE USING A/C

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

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

SEASONAL CONSIDERATIONS: AC USAGE IN DIFFERENT WEATHER

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

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

HYBRID AND ELECTRIC CARS: AC IMPACT ON RANGE

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

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

BALANCING COMFORT AND FUEL ECONOMY

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

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

TIPS

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

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

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

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

TIPS

What are the key benefits of a dash cam?

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

 

What is a dash cam?

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

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

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

 

1. Deters fraudulent insurance claims

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

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

 

2. Can deter theft

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

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

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

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

4. You can record your journeys

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

TIPS

Top 6 Tips for Cracked Windshield Prevention and Repair

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

1. Decide whether it needs immediate attention

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

2. Determine whether it needs to be repaired or replaced

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

3. Avoid dirt and debris

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

4. Park indoors to avoid the elements

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

5. Avoid temperature cold extremes

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

6. Drive carefully

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

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

TIPS