Posted in General | August 31, 2020 

When your children start driving, this can be one of the scariest experiences for parents. Sending your once young child out onto the road is anxiety-provoking, terrifying and frustrating. While you are likely to still experience some level of concern and anxiety, there are ways that you can reduce your stress throughout the process and here are a few tips.

Properly Equip Them

As your child starts driving, your job is to equip them with the skills, supplies and support that they need to navigate this new journey. They will need everything from driving lessons to auto insurance Newark DE to emergency supplies. Equipping them with what they need can help give you peace of mind.

Thinking About Their Safety

Safety will likely be a top priority for you during this process. Your child will be venturing out into the world where they only have so much control over their safety. Thinking about other drivers and navigating uncontrollable situations may be unnerving; however, you can help them by providing them with a safe vehicle, safety instructions and defensive driving techniques.

Getting Them Out Onto the Road

As you begin to teach them the rules of the road and how to navigate a car, you should take this slowly. Start them off by teaching them about the vehicle’s controls, driving in quiet areas and taking each step carefully. By gradually building up to harder scenarios where there will be more drivers around and faster situations like highways, you can help them build up the skills and confidence they will need to properly operate a vehicle safely.

Acknowledging Your Feelings

As a parent or guardian, you will play a pivotal part in their driving experience; however, this is also why you need to be critically aware of your feelings throughout this process. Teaching kids to drive can be scary, frustrating and stressful, but if you start to show this, your child may also start to internalize this. This can produce a more painful process for both of you. If you are finding that your stress and anxiety about teaching your child to drive is impeding their learning process, it may be useful to enlist the help of professionals and let them take over.

Teaching your kids how to drive can feel like a surreal experience. Not only may it feel like just yesterday when you were teaching them how to walk, but it can also be a scary realization that they are becoming an adult. As you approach this big step in both of your lives, make sure that you are ready with these tips and enjoy the process of supporting them through this big milestone.

Posted in General | August 31, 2020 

Automotive technology is constantly evolving, and one of the most popular technologies over the last few years is remote start. This technology is quickly and easily installed in any vehicle with remote ignition. For example, search “remote start installation Maryland,” and you will find a number of garages willing to install your system.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Because your vehicle can be started using a remote from inside a building, you can warm your car on cold days and cool it on hot days without going out into the weather. Once the heater or air conditioner kicks in, you can go from a warm house to a warm car.

In addition, if your defroster is on in your vehicle, your windows should defrost while it warms up. This means you don’t have to spend extra time scraping the snow and ice off your windows or trying to see out of a small defrosted peephole while you wait until all your windows defrost.

Safety

Remote start does not require you to leave your key in the car. In fact, if someone gets in your vehicle and presses the break without a key in the ignition, your car will immediately shut off. Your car will also shut off after a specified period of time, so if you take longer or get distracted while your vehicle is warming up, it won’t just continue to run for a long period of time.

Compatibility

Your remote can also be combined with your car alarm, locator, temperature controls and other systems within your vehicle. This allows you to easily locate your car in full parking lots, sound an alarm if you are in danger and control your temperature if you forgot to leave your heat on the night before. It may also be integrated into your smartphone, allowing you access to even more features.

Engine Benefits

When it is especially cold outside, your engine should be warmed up before you drive your vehicle. This is especially true in older and diesel vehicles. Warming the engine allows the oil to fully lubricate your motor, extending its life.

Resale Value

If you plan to sell your vehicle, buyers may see your remote start as an added benefit that they will not have to invest in later. This means, they may be willing to pay more for your car that it is worth. However, be sure to have a professional install the remote start to ensure the product and vehicle warranties remain intact.

If you live in an area with extreme weather shifts, consider purchasing a remote start system for your vehicle.

Posted in General | August 31, 2020 

If you are looking for a new career, getting your commercial driver’s license could give you an opportunity to get into the trucking industry. It is one of the largest and most important ones in the country. Much of the nation’s merchandise and food is transported by trucks. This career gives you the chance to work a lot and make good money. You may even want to consider starting your own transportation company. Here are are few things to think about if you decide to start your own trucking business.

Equipment

You will need to have the right equipment for your hauling service. There are many items you can haul, so you should find a part of the industry that you fit in well. A stronger truck will help you to be able to pull heavier weight. If you ever have a problem with your tractor, you can hire an emergency truck repair company to help you out. If you have multiple trailers, you can offer more services to people.

Hauling

You should figure out what you want to haul. Keep in mind that you may need some endorsements for certain items such as hazardous materials. You can face heavy fines and even loss of your license for hauling something illegally. You should always try to find a load to move no matter where you are. The less time your trailer is empty the better.

Hours

You will find out that truck driving can be a job that requires you to work long hours. The more you drive though, the more money you will be making. If you get loads that require certain delivery dates, you may need to drive all day or night. Keep in mind that you have certain hours that you can drive a day and week which is regulated by the department of transportation.

The trucking industry is not for everyone. It takes commitment and skill to drive a trailer all over the United States.

Posted in General | August 28, 2020 

https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-and-white-car-vehicle-vintage-474/

“It’s making a weird noise”… Is your car trying to tell you something? The mental debate of whether to move on or not can rage for a long time. Know the signs you need a new car, make the decision easily.

Here are some signs you need a new car…

Sign 1: It’s about the driver, not the car…

Often, the choice to get a new car has a lot to do with the driver. Changing cars when there’s nothing physically wrong with it is a good position to be in. No repair bills and an easy trade in or sale. Here’s what we mean:

The size of your car doesn’t match your needs.

This often happens for one of two reasons:

1 – The small car from your younger days won’t accommodate a growing family.

2 – The opposite. The kids have bought their own cars and there are less passengers to transport.

If this is the predicament you find yourself in, it’s time for a new car.

Driving your car becomes more of a chore.

If you think back to when you first bought your current car, you probably looked forward to driving it. Naturally, that feeling wears off but if driving has become a chore that you prefer to avoid, it can be another sign. There’s too much road noise, it’s difficult to drive, you don’t have any modern features and you don’t feel confident in it.

If you don’t like your car, don’t let it get neglected. It’s time for a new car.

Sign 2: The numbers…

The numbers with dollar signs in front to be more specific. If your car is costing you more and more to service and maintain, it’s time to move on. Additionally, if your mechanic keeps telling you things like; “the brakes need doing next time” or “your water pump is on it’s way out”, it may end up costing you more than the value of the car itself. If you took out a car loan to purchase your current vehicle and still owe money on it, talk to a broker – they can find options to suit almost all circumstances.

Money is a big concern when buying and selling cars. Always compare car loans, shop around and do your research on the market prices for your current car and cars you might want to upgrade to.

The resale value is hurting.

If your car is getting older – in years and mileage – have a look online to see what similar examples are selling for. Unfortunately, you might be disappointed. As the odometer increases – especially over 100,000kms, the value of most cars drops considerably. Manufacturers bring out new models with new looks and features, older ones become less desirable.

Sign 3: The Technology is Outdated (or non-existent)…

Maybe you’ve decided your car’s not safe enough anymore. There are a lot of modern driver assist features like adaptive cruise control, auto-emergency braking and lane departure warning to name a few. If you’ve decided your car doesn’t meet modern standards, take it as a sign you need a new car.

Sign 4: It’s Talking to You…

Cars making funny noises are often trying to tell drivers they need repairs and replacements. If you’re hearing knocking, squealing, grinding or scraping – it’s a sign you need a new car or at least a trip to a mechanic.

It’s making weird smells too.

Often this is caused by excessive heat. For example, oil or hydraulic fluid leaking on a hot exhaust or moving parts scraping and rubbing causing friction. As weird smells get worse, smoke from the exhaust is often present – another sign it’s time to get into a new car.

Sign 5: Leaks

If those blobs and stains are increasing where you park your car, it’s another sign. Leaks can mean a number of things – cracked gaskets or frayed and damaged hoses for example. It’s these kinds of repairs that cost a lot in labour.

What’s the answer?

Simply ‘selling your current car and getting a new one’ is far easier said than done. If you know the signs, time should be on your side and you can get your ducks lined up. Check online and make sure you know all the signs it’s time to buy a new car, and what the cost will be. Decide whether to trade in or sell your current car…

Trade in.

Used car dealerships stay in business by making profit on the cars they acquire. Naturally, they’ll try to offer you as less as possible. If you trade your car in, be prepared for a low offer. Dealers might have to repair or a least, touch up your car in order to sell on to someone else.

Private sale.

Generally, if you fancy your negotiating skills, you’ll get a higher price by advertising your car online. Be prepared to have strangers come to your home to inspect the vehicle or alternatively, meet in a car park nearby. If you can wait for the right buyer and deal with strangers coming to ‘kick tyres’, you’ll likely be rewarded with more money.

Getting that new car…

If you’ve read the signs and decided it’s time for a new ride, have a look at all the options: car loans, makes and models, new features and take a few for a test drive. Can’t decide? Make a list of the features that match your driving style and lifestyle and go from there.

Posted in General | August 26, 2020 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets strict rules for truck drivers. One of the requirements drivers must meet is completing a physical exam at regular intervals.

This exam helps to ensure drivers are healthy and in good enough physical condition to drive safely. The FMCSA sets the standard for the exams.

FMCSA Requirements

According to the FMCSA, DOT physical exams are valid for up to 24 months, but the doctor can require more frequent examination if the driver has specific health conditions that require ongoing monitoring. A driver must use a licensed medical examiner who is on the FMCSA National Registry.

During the exam, the doctor must check the following:

• Vision with color blindness test
• Blood pressure
• Hearing
• Cardiovascular health
• Physical endurance

The doctor must also do a complete review of the driver’s medical history, assess any medications he or she takes, and complete a urinalysis to check for underlying medical issues during DOT physical exams Rockville MD.

A driver must have at least 20/40 vision, a blood pressure of less than 140/90, a good range of motion, overall physical fitness, and the ability to climb and conduct physical duties of the job. Any medications the driver takes cannot affect the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

The driver must also disclose all details about his or her medical history, including any ongoing conditions, diabetes, sleep disorders, substance abuse issues, epilepsy, and surgeries.

Exceptions

It is possible to pass the DOT physical exam with certain health conditions, but it does require securing an exemption. Drivers may secure exemptions for:

• Vision
• Hearing
• Seizures

It does require completing the exemption paperwork, including providing driving records, employment history, medical exams, and driving experience reports.

Wrap Up

The DOT physical exam is not optional. To secure a CDL in any state, a driver must complete the exam and pass it within FMCSA standards.

Posted in General | August 21, 2020 

The air conditioning in your vehicle is critical during hot weather to ensure that you, your passengers and your items are not overheated while riding in the cabin. When it starts to malfunction, the culprit is usually the air compressor or related belts and there are two main signs that it needs to be fixed, loud knocking sounds or warm air when you turn the A/C on.

Knocks When A/C Is Running

Knocks while the A/C is on, or a loud squealing when you try to turn it on, are common sounds from a failing system. If you hear a squeal, watch the compressor in action to see if the belt snaps or fails to move, or if the pulley is seized. The first two can indicate that the belt is too loose and needs to be replaced while a seized pulley means that you need a new compressor. Knocking sounds means that the compressor is failing, and its vanes are sending powdery dust through the rest of your system. In this case, shut off the A/C until you can get car care near Lake Stevens WA for a replacement, so your filters are not clogged.

Air Conditioning Not Cold

Sometimes you can hear knocking or squealing while the air is still getting cold. Other times, there will be no noise from the compressor or related parts, but the A/C is not producing cold air. This is usually a sign that you have a coolant leak. You can take your car to a mechanic to find the leak, or purchase test kits to do it yourself. If there is a leak between the compressor and pulley or in the compressor case, the unit needs replacement.

The most obvious sign that the A/C compressor in your vehicle needs to be replaced is that it stops producing cold air but knocking or squealing can mean that it is not working properly. When the A/C goes out due to malfunctioning parts, it can be uncomfortable for passengers and harmful for the rest of the system.

Posted in General | August 1, 2020 

As a car owner, you most likely want your car to last you for as long as possible. Many people need a reliable car to get to and from work every day, and the key to keeping your car functional is maintenance. While no car is built to last forever, you can greatly extend your vehicle’s longevity by having oil changes and tire rotations, keeping up with manufacturer recalls and going through a car wash on a regular basis.

Have Oil Changes and Tire Rotations

If you never change the oil in your vehicle, your engine will give out on your car long before it should. Most cars need an oil change every 3,000-10,000 miles. You should always follow your manufacturer’s recommendation for how often this should be done. Tire rotation is also an important part of making a car run smoothly, and you can have this done at the same time as an oil change.

Keep up With Manufacturer Recalls

From time to time, auto parts Apopka have to be replaced due to manufacturer recalls. It is important that you take your vehicle to a dealership to get these needed repairs done as soon as you are aware of them for the safety of yourself and your passengers.

Go Through a Car Wash

While keeping your car clean may not have a direct correlation with how long it lasts, it can make you feel a lot better about what you drive. You do not want your car to look like it has literally been dragged through the mud on a daily basis. When you keep your car’s interior and exterior clean, you will be more satisfied with your daily drive.

When you follow these simple and practical tips, you can be on your way to making your car last as long as possible.

Posted in General | August 1, 2020 

Many people like to accessorize the things that they own, especially when it comes to vehicles. There are so many upgrades you can make. If you have a truck, you may want to customize it to your liking. Owning something unique can turn heads as you are driving down the road. Here are a few ways to add style to your truck.

Height

When it comes to a truck, you may want to change how tall it is. The model will determine what route you go. Some people may like to lower the body of it and have it close to the ground. This is popular for small bodies and two-wheel-drive pickups. If you have a large body and like to off-road, getting a lift kit can help you gain clearance from the ground.

Rims

The style of your rims could be affected by the tires you choose. A bigger rim can be harder to install if you do not have the clearance within the wheel well. Make sure the tires do not rub, or it can cause damage to the vehicle. If you like a fatter tire, a smaller rim can look good.

Power

The performance of your truck is important. If you use it for work, you probably want it to have a lot of power. You can add a part like a 7.3 powerstroke turbo. When you have added horsepower, you can also tow trailers a little bit easier. Many people like the versatility a pickup has when it comes to strength and being comfortable when driving such a heavy thing.

Body

You could stick to changing minor details or go all out when upgrading the body of your truck. They make body kits that can transform the way it looks. There are options that allow you to have a streamlined look or more of a straight-edged appearance. The hood can also affect the demeanor the vehicle gives off. Some have vents in them that can let fresh air into the motor to give it more power.

Interior

The inside of your truck is where you will spend most of your time while in it. Adding speakers and lights are a few of the more popular accessories that you could install inside. Many people like to add seat covers to protect the inside upholstery as well.

One of the best ways to have a nice-looking truck is to keep up with its maintenance. Adding small details as you go can make a big difference for the finished product.