10 Summer Safety Tips for Babies in Cars

If you’re spending time in the car this summer, arm yourself with water, snacks and some very good advice. Read on for our top 10 tips on keeping babies and toddlers safe in the car on warm summer days.

1. Get your car seat inspected.
More than half of all car seats are installed incorrectly, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And since people tend to spend more time in the car during the summer, it’s a good time to find the nearest car seat inspection station, usually at a local police or fire department. The experts there will inspect your car seat and show you how to install it properly, usually at no charge.

2. Cool the car down quickly.
A hot car is uncomfortable for everybody, especially kids. If you’re getting into a scorching car, crank up the air conditioning and open the windows first to push out that hot air. After a few minutes, when the car is cooler, get in and roll up the car windows and let the AC keep working its magic. Also, when placing your child in the car seat, watch those metal buckles, which can get blazing hot on warm days. When your car is parked outside, keep the metal parts out of direct sunlight, tucking them into the car seat straps or placing a towel or light blanket on top of the metal when your child is out of the car seat.

3. Inspect your tires.
How are tires like babies? They’re both prone to blowouts, and tires are more likely to have them during the summer months. Blame the combination of hot weather, longer drives and cars packed full of road-trip gear. Regularly check your tire pressure and the condition of your tires to stay safe.

3. Don’t skip major services

When it’s time for a tune-up, you will likely need to swap out older parts for new ones. These include spark plugs, oil filters, fuel filters, PCV valves, belts and hoses. These items’ longevity depends on your vehicle’s make and model. Consider asking the service department for cost estimates before tune-ups are needed so you will be prepared.

4. Get your brakes checked

There is no standard for how frequently you should have your brakes checked. However, experts recommend doing this every time your tires are rotated or every six months.

If you notice a change in your brakes while driving, have them inspected as soon as possible.

5. Check fluid levels often

Select a day each month to check your fluid levels and note it in your calendar. It will only take a few minutes, and you can make a handy checklist to know what to do when the time comes.

Be sure to include engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid and windshield washer fluid. You should also check the brake fluid and transmission fluid at least twice a year — preferably every six months.

You could wait until it’s time for an oil change to have your fluid levels checked. However, low fluid levels could indicate significant issues with your vehicle. Plus, you will likely spend more money later on repairs if the issues are left undetected.

6. Pay attention to your tire tread

Low tread on your tires puts you at risk of losing control of your vehicle, particularly when you’re driving in the rain, sleet or snow. But there are two easy, inexpensive ways to monitor your tire tread. You can buy a tread depth gauge or use a penny.

If you choose the latter, insert the penny upside down into the tread with Abraham Lincoln’s face looking outward. If Lincoln’s head is fully visible, you probably need new tires. Take the car to a tire dealer to confirm.

7. Keep your tires inflated

Proper tire inflation contributes to vehicle safety and optimal fuel efficiency. If you have a newer vehicle, you will likely get an alert on the dashboard when your tire pressure is low. But if this feature isn’t available in your car, purchase a tire-pressure gauge to monitor your tires’ air levels.

Refer to the sticker directly inside the pillar of the driver door to confirm the proper inflation levels for your car. If the pressure is low, inflate the tires to the correct level.

8. Don’t ignore leaks, sounds or smells

Is there fluid on the ground from your car? Does it make weird noises when you crank it up, accelerate to a certain speed, turn a corner, back up or sit at a traffic light? Are there strange smells coming from your vehicle that you don’t recognize?

These signs shouldn’t be ignored as they indicate that your car could need repairs. But if you ignore them and put investigating them off, you could spend several hundred or thousands in repairs later.

9. Pay attention to alerts

Whether it is the dreaded check engine light that pops up or some other icon you have never seen, don’t ignore it. Instead, take your car in to be checked out since it’s trying to communicate that something isn’t quite right. Even if it’s not that big of a deal, better to be safe than sorry.

TIPS

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

Is It Time to Change My Spark Plugs?

Have you ever tried starting your car and it just stutters? Many assume it’s a faulty battery, but the problem could very well be the spark plugs. This is why it’s so important to keep up with spark plug maintenance and to look out for symptoms of bad spark plugs.

What do spark plugs do?

Using a small bolt of electricity, the spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine, which helps your vehicle move. Each spark plug screws into an engine cylinder and connects to the car’s ignition system.

What happens when a spark plug goes bad?

Want to know the signs to look for that can indicate your spark plugs are misfiring? There are a few key symptoms, such as problems with idling, accelerating and fuel economy. We’re going to break down six signs there could be a problem with your spark plugs below.

6 signs of bad spark plugs

1. Irregular upkeep and maintenance

It’s always important to keep up with proper maintenance to ensure a smooth and safe ride. Each car requires a spark plug change at a certain mileage. Check your owner’s manual to see what the mileage is for your vehicle.

2. Rough idling

If you feel excessive shaking or vibrating when your engine is running but not in motion, this is called rough idling. When your spark plugs are misfiring, rough idling may be a symptom.

3. Declining fuel economy

When spark plugs are having trouble producing energy to accelerate your car, more gasoline is used to make up for the bad spark plug. If your vehicle is using more gasoline for starting your car, sitting at a traffic light and driving, your car’s fuel economy is decreasing.

4. Car struggles to start

If your car is just clicking when you try to start it, the cause could be worn-out spark plugs. If the spark plugs can’t produce enough energy to start the combustion process, your car won’t start. Take your car to a professional and have them check out the spark plugs.

5. The engine begins misfiring or pinging

If there is oil on the tip of the spark plug, this can cause the engine to misfire or keep it from starting altogether. It’s important to take your vehicle to a professional if you notice the oil because a repair is necessary. If you don’t repair it, this can damage the catalytic converter, which can be costly to replace.

6. Warning lights come on

If the check engine light comes on in your car, don’t ignore it. This could indicate a problem with the spark plugs or another issue with the engine. Regardless, if the light comes on when you’re driving, you’ll need to find a safe place to pull over and shut off your engine to investigate the issue or take it to a professional to diagnose the issue.

How long do spark plugs last?

Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to know how long your spark plugs last, because the mileage varies per car. Some spark plugs may last only 18,000 miles, while others last 100,000 miles. Make sure to take your car in for regular maintenance to ensure that it’s running as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Lastly, make sure you and your vehicle are protected with the right insurance.

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

HOW TO GET RID OF A MUSTY SMELL IN YOUR AC

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

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

UNDERSTANDING THE MUSTY SMELL

DIY CLEANING TECHNIQUES

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

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

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

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

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

Common causes include:

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

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

 

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE TIPS

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

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

 

TIPS

DOES AC AFFECT GAS MILEAGE?

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

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

HOW AIR CONDITIONING AFFECTS FUEL CONSUMPTION

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

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

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

UNDERSTANDING GAS MILEAGE AND EFFICIENCY

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

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

TIPS FOR IMPROVING GAS MILEAGE WHILE USING A/C

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

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

SEASONAL CONSIDERATIONS: AC USAGE IN DIFFERENT WEATHER

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

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

HYBRID AND ELECTRIC CARS: AC IMPACT ON RANGE

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

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

BALANCING COMFORT AND FUEL ECONOMY

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

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

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