Tag Archives: automotive maintenance

Get Your Car Winter Ready – Be Prepared Before Winter Weather Strikes

Now that November has arrived, winter is right around the corner and you never know what to expect when it comes to Mother Nature. With that being said, I like to make sure that our vehicles are properly running after all of our summer activity and of course, the heat, as a way to prepare for winter.

Get Your Car Ready for Winter

There are a variety of things that need to be done to keep a car in tip-top running condition and of course, if you don’t have any first hand knowledge of routine automotive maintenance, I suggest you bring your car into your local dealership, such as Humes Chrysler, to have it serviced.

Winter Maintenance List

When it comes to caring for our vehicles, I like to make sure the following things are taken care of before the first snow hits the ground.

Air Filter – Change out your air filter
Oil Change – Make sure you head into the winter with a fresh oil change
Check fluid levels – make sure all fluids are topped off.
Wiper Blades – Replace wiper blades.
Battery and Charging System – Have the battery and charging system tested and make sure it is in good condition and will survive the cold winter.
Battery Cables and Terminals – Make sure all connections are secure and remove any corrosion from the terminals and posts.
Drive Belts – Inspect belts for cracks or fraying.
Engine Hoses –Visually inspect the cooling system hoses for leaks, cracks or loose clamps.
Tire Tread – If any tire has less than 3/32-inches of tread and replace any tires that do not.
Tire Pressure – Check tire pressure frequently during winter months
Emergency Road Kit – Stock your emergency road kit for the winter

By taking your car to a reputable service center, you can ensure that your vehicle is ready to hit the road this winter!

Automotive, Travel

Tips for Pre-Booking and Planning Your Vacation

Anne Younger Leave a comment

Planning a vacation can take a lot of time and energy. It’s best to organize everything well in advance. Preferably before you start packing! Once you start packing, you’ll be so excited about your holiday you may forget about booking certain things. So stay ahead of the game and pre-book everything you need before you think about things for your suitcase! What does this cover? Everything in the following list!

Travel From The Airport

When you land in a new destination, you won’t have the comfort of your car. If there is a direct train from the airport into the city, then you may be able to book your tickets in advance. Would you rather drive yourself? Hiring a car for the duration of your trip will provide you with a lot of independence throughout your stay, making it easier to get around. It’s advantageous to book a car in advance, as it is usually cheaper.

Excursions and Day Trips

While you are away, you will no doubt want to see as much as possible. The best way to get out and do this is by booking your family a spot on excursions or organized day trips. You can, of course, wait until you arrive at your destination to book these. You might then have a better feel for the location and know exactly what you want to do and see. However, it can be a lot cheaper to book in advance. This also ensures you bag a place on the trip before it sells out!

Childcare

Depending on the hotel you are staying in, or the resort you will be spending your holiday at, you may be able to book childcare. Many resorts have kid clubs and offer entertainment for your little ones throughout the day. This gives your kids the chance to interact and play with other children on the resort. It also gives you and your other half time to relax for a few hours. Kids clubs can be very popular, so if you get the chance, book your kids a place before you jet off.

Travel Insurance

Under no circumstances should you and your family be travelling without insurance! You never know when something could go wrong, so it is always best to be careful. As soon as you know where you will be travelling to, book your insurance to prevent you from forgetting. You can buy insurance very cheaply these days. There is no excuse not to have any!

Road Trips

For those families taking a road trip, Audi Wilmington suggests having your vehicle fully inspected to ensure it is in good running order before heading out on the the open road. It is best to have a fresh oil change and tire rotation as well as making sure your fluids are topped off and everything is ready to go.

Now that you are well prepared, you can begin to get excited about your trip. Have a great time away!

Automotive

How to Save on Your Car Service

Anne Younger Leave a comment

Cars, they are expensive, and so is taking care of them. I will admit, I have been a bad car owner, multiple times. Now that Alex and I are both driving, new-to-us vehicles, we have been very good about taking care of them.

In the last year, my van has had new tire sensors installed, 2 new tires, regular oil changes, tires rotated, new brakes as well as the recommended routine maintenance. For all of my repairs, I have had the vehicle serviced at a reliable dealership just like Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge.

Me when I got my new-to-me van in November of 2015.

Why Go to the Dealership?

For me, going to the dealership means taking it to someone who specializes in my vehicle and continuing a relationship with the dealer we purchased from.

Another reason we go to the dealership for a lot of things is because they offer service specials and coupons from time to time. Sometimes it can be as simple as $5 off an oil change, which for me is a nice savings. A lot of dealerships will also price match services if you bring a quote in from elsewhere, especially when it comes to tires!

PrePaid Packages

Another great way to save when servicing your vehicle is to see if your dealership offers prepaid packages on services like 10 oil changes for a discounted price, etc. or even a discounted rate on services at different milestones of ownership.

The next time your vehicle needs to be serviced, be sure to contact your local dealership and make sure you are getting the best deal available and keep some of your money, in your pocket!