Gas prices just aren’t what they used to be. We all long for the days when you could fill your gas tank without emptying your wallet. Oil prices have risen and gas prices have risen right along with them. Many drivers on the road today are looking for ways to cut down the amount of fuel they’re burning; both for budgetary and environmental concerns. After all, the climate change issue seems to be growing more and more serious. Many concerned citizens are taking steps to minimize air pollution in their everyday life. For these reasons, we’ve compiled some strategies for better gas mileage that are practical and simple for any car owner to utilize.
How to Improve Gas Mileage
Sometimes we fail to realize how much gas our cars are guzzling when we’re getting through life day to day. However, there are a lot of simple things that can be done to ensure you’re getting the best gas mileage for your vehicle. With some simple alterations to your driving patterns, techniques, and vehicle maintenance, you can significantly diminish the amount of fuel you burn each time you get behind the wheel.
Check Tire Pressure
Proper air pressure in your tires is important for two reasons:
Improved fuel efficiency
Prolonging the life of the tires
Check the tire air pressure at least once a month. Underinflated tires create rolling resistance which puts undue stress on the engine and burns more fuel. Deflated tires will also decrease in longevity, as the amount of tire wear is greatly increased. Most tires have a recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) between 30 and 36. Never over inflate a tire; this can cause the tire to burst.
How to Check Tire Pressure
Check the PSI max labeled on the sidewall of the tire.
Purchase a digital tire pressure gauge at any auto parts outlet.
If tires are deflated 5 PSI passed the recommended level, inflate the tires accordingly.
Change Air Filter
The air filter blocks dust, dirt, and debris from entering the engine. Anything that negatively affects car engine performance is going to decrease fuel economy. When the air filter becomes dirty, it clogs; blocking air flow to the engine. Replacing the air filter in your car can improve gas mileage by 15 percent.
Car Air Filter Replacement: How to Change Air Filter
It’s commonly recommended to replace an air filter every 12 months or every 12,000 miles. Many people simply have it included with an oil change at an auto shop, but that can double the price of the service. Air filter replacement can be done easily and quickly at home by taking the following steps:
Purchase a new air filter. Consult your owner’s manual for the proper size and type of filter for your vehicle. A new filter will cost between $10 and $15.
Locate the air filter box under the hood. It will be a black plastic box that sits on or next to the engine.
Remove the dirty filter. There will be some metal clasps keeping the air filter box closed. Simply pop them open, remove the top of the box, and remove the filter.
Install the new air filter. Slide it into the box and make sure it sits snugly. Put the top of the filter box back into place and snap the clips back on. The job is done!
Fuel Filter
The fuel filter prevents dirt, sand, grime, and other corruptive substances from entering the fuel injection system. With a bad fuel filter, the smallest bit of dirt can clog the injectors and seriously diminish gas mileage.
Fuel Filter Replacement
A vehicle’s fuel filter should be replaced every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. It is not recommended to attempt a fuel filter replacement unless you are mechanically inclined. Gasoline is flammable and dangerous. For this reason, it’s best to leave this job to a professional.
Fuel Filter Replacement Cost
To have a fuel filter replaced by a mechanic will cost between $50 and $165. As mentioned above, someone who is knowledgeable about vehicle repairs can do the job themselves. In that case, a fuel filter can be purchased at a cost between $15 and $60.
Oil Change
The oil in a vehicle’s engine acts as a lubricant and a cleaner. A clean engine obviously performs better than a dirty one. Oil change service should be done every three months or every 3,000 miles; whichever comes first. Getting a routine oil change is a great way to cut down on fuel consumption. An oil change typically costs somewhere between $20 and $55.
Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment service will ensure that you won’t be working to keep your car straight. Front end alignment is crucial to make sure your car is getting the best miles per gallon. Without proper tire alignment, the wheels are working against the suspension and increasing strain on the engine.
If your car is pulling to the left or right or the steering wheel shakes while driving, you should consider getting an alignment test done quickly; before the problem worsens.
How Much Does an Alignment Cost
Wheel alignment cost is estimated between $100 and $150 for four tires. Having only the front end wheels realigned will be closer to $50 and $75.
Spark Plugs and Wires
A bad spark plug will inhibit engine performance. Worn spark plugs and wires can be replaced by a professional pretty quickly. The average cost with labor included is estimated between $40 and $150. Getting new spark plugs installed will allow for faster ignition to the cylinders; resulting in more efficient fuel consumption.
Check Gas Cap
If the rubber seal on yourcar’s gas cap has become cracked or worn, an excess of air will enter the gas tank. When a loose gas cap lets air into the fuel delivery system, the engine will have to burn fuel faster than usual to do its job. In order to get better gas mileage, a new gas cap would be required.
A gas cap can be purchased at any auto parts outlet at a cost between $5 and $30. While cheaper gas caps will save you money, they may not be compatible with your vehicle’s sensors; which help to inform you when there’s an issue with the fuel delivery system.
Distributor Cap
A distributor cap is a component used in spark ignition systems to cover the distributor and rotor. Distributor caps also assist in sending electrical current from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. Distributor caps are considered wear items that need to be periodically replaced, as a bad distributor cap can impact engine performance and gas mileage.
Replacement is estimated between $90 and $125. The distributor cap and rotor should be replaced simultaneously every 50,000 miles, regardless of wear.
Car Air Conditioning and Car Windows
This may not sound like a great thing to do during the summer season, but, keeping your air conditioner off whenever possible, is a major way to take stress from your engine and decrease fuel consumption. It’s also best to keep your windows up to reduce drag on the car. Now, obviously on hotter days, one may choose comfort over frugality. In this scenario, the general rule of thumb is as follows:
Fast highway driving: Keep the air conditioner on and keep the windows up.
Slower local driving: Turn the air conditioner off and roll down the windows.
It’s also important to ensure your air conditioner unit is working properly. Auto air conditioning repair service can be expensive. That’s why it’s best to have it done as soon as an issue arises.Car air conditioning repair can cost between $170 and $730 if handled quickly. Untreated issues can worsen and result in repair costs between $1,000 and $4,000.
Gas Station Tricks
Few people realize that there are good and bad times to hit the gas pump. But there are two great tricks to help you get the best fuel efficiency and the best bang for your buck at the gas station:
Get gas in the morning: Most gas stations store the gasoline underground. In the morning, the storage tanks are cool; meaning the fuel will be denser than the afternoon when the sun’s heat makes it expand. Cooler fuel means your tank is being filled with more fuel and less air.
If the fuel truck is present, go somewhere else: Some people think that filling up when the tanker truck is there means they’re getting fresh gas. However, when the truck deposits the new gas into the underground storage tanks, it kicks up debris and sediment than can find its way into your engine. That’s never going to help with gas mileage.
Keep Your Car as Light as Possible
Any extra weight on your vehicle is going to put more work on the engine. A car or truck with an array of tools, luggage, or other cargo is going to get much less fuel efficiency than an empty vehicle. It’s best to keep only what you absolutely need in your car from day to day.
Drive Smart
When driving a vehicle, most people don’t take their driving habits into account when it comes to fuel efficiency. Even so, there are several changes we can make to the way we drive than can noticeably improve the miles per gallon a vehicle gets. Some great ways to improve your gas mileage include:
Driving Slow: In this modern era, everybody wants to get where they’re headed quickly. There’s no mystery as to why so many people get speeding tickets across the country. It may not sound appealing, but staying close to the speed limit will allow you to let off the gas more often and cruise to a stop at traffic lights and intersections. Reducing the amount of heavy braking and accelerating will cut fuel consumption significantly.
Don’t Ride the Brake: This goes hand in hand with the previous tip, but we all know drivers who either tap the brakes constantly, or drive with their left foot on the brake pedal. This is terrible for your engine performance and fuel economy. Watch the road ahead of you and brake softly; coasting into a stop.
Cruise Control: When driving on major highways, most drivers unconsciously match the speed of the vehicle in front of them. Not only is this unsafe, it’s also not very fuel efficient. When the driver in front of you brakes, you have no choice but to brake as well. Cruise control sets a safe speed and eliminates excessive braking and acceleration, which, in turn, has a significant impact on fuel economy.
No More Idling: An idling car uses a half gallon to a full gallon of fuel per hour. This also means the vehicle is needlessly pumping carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Modern cars have been designed to use less fuel when restarting, so letting your car run while you’re waiting for someone or something is no longer a helpful strategy. Newer cars also do not need time to warm up in the morning. Idling while your car warms up is less effective than driving slowly until the engine reaches operating temperature.
Ultimately, the lesson here is that regular maintenance of your vehicle, combined with conscientious driving, is the best way to save your fuel and reduce carbon emissions. While some of these tips may seem costly, the long term savings at the gas pump is a most beneficial reward. Drivesmart has a variety of protection plans to cut and eliminate the cost of maintenance and repairs. Issues with a vehicle’s suspension, air conditioning, or fuel system can be covered completely with Drivesmart’s Powertrain Plus plan. Drivesmart is dedicated to providing drivers with the information they need to make their car work best for them, as well as being there for drivers when repair bills pile up.
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Everybody knows cars are expensive. They’re expensive to buy and expensive to repair. So it stands to reason that when someone buys a car, they’ll want it to last. However, few people know how to properly maintain a vehicle to get the maximum length of use out of it. In this article we’ll discuss some of the best ways to extend the life of your car, as well as the longest lasting cars you can buy and the most reliable cars on the road today.
In order to ensure that your car lasts as long as possible, maintenance is key. While that may seem obvious, there are a lot of simple things car owners tend to overlook. By taking a little extra care of your car or truck, you can avoid expensive auto repair, and test the limits of just how long can a car last. If you want to extend your car’s lifespan, the tips below will give you the necessary insight to keep your vehicle running smooth and looking great for years to come.
The oil in your vehicle lubricates and cools the parts inside the engine. Changing the oil regularly will protect the engine of the vehicle and improve gas mileage. Forgoing oil changes can lead to sludge build-up which reduces engine efficiency and can potentially lead to engine failure.
How Often Should you get your Oil Changed
It is recommended that an oil change is performed between 3,000 and 5,000 miles or every three to six months.
Other fluids in a vehicle should be flushed and replaced at the proper time as well. Brake fluid, power steering fluid, and antifreeze coolant should be flushed every two years. Newer vehicles may permit longer periods between these fluid changes. To be sure when the best time to replace these fluids is, refer to the vehicle owner’s manual. Old fluids do not adequately lubricate or cool the intended components.
Filters prevent debris from getting into the engine. Air filters keep dirt and dust from corrupting vehicles’ components. An air filter can be changed fairly easily at home and will improve gas mileage while preventing poor engine performance.
How Often to Change Air Filter
An air filter should be changed between 15,000 and 30,000 miles; this will vary upon regular driving conditions. If the vehicle is usually driven on unpaved road, the need for replacement will be quicker.
How Often to Change Oil Filter
An oil filter should be changed whenever an oil change is done. Oil filters block abrasive sediments from entering the engine. Running clean oil through a dirty oil filter is counterproductive, so having the oil and filter replaced simultaneously is ideal.
Tires
One of the main things people overlook when considering the longevity of their car is the wheels and tires. Things like tire rotation and alignmentwill ensure that components to the suspension and drivetrain are not put under undue stress.
Tire Inspection
Be sure your tires are always at optimal tire pressure. The tires on your vehicle should have the proper amount of air pressure indicated on the side wall of each tire. Also, you should regularly check your tires for healthy tread depth, as well as cracks or excessive wear. Overly worn tires need to be replaced quickly before a blowout occurs.
Changing the position of the tires reduces uneven wear on the tread. Tires should be rotated diagonally; moving front right to rear left, and front left to rear right. However, some vehicles with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive will require different tire rotation patterns. Consult the owner’s manual if you are unsure.
How Often to Rotate Tires
It is recommended to have tires rotated at least twice a year, or every 6,000 to 7,500 miles. If you’re sure of the rotation pattern required for your vehicle, it can be done at home to save on service fees. Otherwise, it is recommended to have this done at a professional facility.
Wheel Alignment
If your car is shaking or pulling while driving, the front end alignment is likely the issue. If the tread on the front tires appears to be wearing unevenly, wheel alignment service may be required. Proper alignment is important to extend the life of the car’s tires, wheels, and suspension system.
Brake Pads
The brake pads bear the brunt of the friction in the brake system. Timely brake pad replacement will prevent damage to the brake rotors and calipers. Replacing brake pads is a cheap, routine service; whereas replacing rotors and calipers is much more expensive.
How Often to Change Brake Pads
Brake pads generally require replacement after 50,000 miles. Though the environment in which you regularly drive your vehicle may affect the lifespan of the pads. Whenever a tire rotation or oil change is performed, the brake pads should be inspected. If the brake pads are beginning to become noticeably thin, it’s best to change them before they’re too worn down.
Emergency Brake
Few people make regular use of their emergency brake. However, activating the emergency break (or hand brake) when parking your vehicle will help keep the brakes adjusted in the rear of the car. This will extend the life of the breaks. Using the emergency break is especially important when parking on an incline. It is not suggested to use the emergency brake in cold temperatures, as the break may freeze and become stuck until it thaws out.
Car Garage Parking
Whenever possible, it’s best to park your car in a garage or a shady area. Keeping your car out of sunlight will help protect the interior from sun damage as well as keep the exterior paint from fading from excessive sunlight. Garage parking is ideal, as it protects the car from other elements like snow and ice, as well as pollen and leaves.
Key Chain
Keeping your key chain light will prevent the problem of a bad ignition switch. If your keys are too heavy, the weight, combined with the bouncing that takes place while driving, can wear out the tumblers within the ignition. To prevent ignition switch failure, use a lightweight key chain that separates the ignition key from all the others. Driving with nothing but the ignition key attached to the ignition will prevent failure from the ignition switch, which can leave you stranded with an undriveable vehicle.
Drive Carefully
It’s best not to drive your car as though you’re trying to win an off road derby. Sudden stops and starts, excessive speeding, and sharp turns put undue stress on many of your vehicle’s components. It’s also beneficial to your car to avoid short trips. Make sure your vehicle’s engine is at proper operating temperature before you set out for the road. It’s best to combine errands when you head out in your car to keep the engine at a proper temperature. Driving on a cool engine results in condensation in the exhaust. If the car is only driven a short distance, the condensation will not evaporate properly, and will result in rust in the muffler.
Routinely washing your car is a great way to prolong its aesthetic and performance. A full service or self service car wash will prevent salt, sludge, and pollution from corrupting your vehicle. Without regular cleaning, rust and corrosion will begin to form on the doors and underbody components. This can lead to thousands of dollars in rust related repairs. Allowing dust and debris to collect inside your vehicle can result in wear to the surfaces and upholstery. Scratchy dashboards and unsightly blemishes can bring down the value of your vehicle for trade or resale.
Longest Lasting Cars: What Cars Last the Longest
Another great way to be sure your car will last is to buy a vehicle that is known to last longer than most. For this purpose, we’ve compiled a list of vehicles most likely to last more than 200,000 miles. The list is curated based on the average of vehicles exceeding 200,000 miles, which is 0.8 percent:
Toyota Sequoia: 7.4%
Chevrolet Suburban: 5.0%
Ford Expedition: 5.0%
GMC Yukon XL: 4.0%
Toyota 4Runner: 3.9%
Chevrolet Tahoe: 3.8%
Toyota Highlander Hybrid: 3.1%
Honda Ridgeline: 3.0%
GMC Yukon: 2.8%
Toyota Tacoma: 2.6%
Toyota Tundra: 2.6%
Toyota Avalon: 2.5%
Honda Odyssey: 2.5%
Lincoln Navigator: 2.2%
Most Reliable cars
In addition to finding the longest lasting cars, we also looked into which cars are the most reliable. When considering reliability, we compiled data to see what cars historically require the least repair during ownership. Below is a list of the most reliable vehicles on the market:
Toyota 4Runner
Toyota Prius
Toyota Camry
Lexus ES
Toyota RAV4
Lexus IS
Lexus GS
Toyota Avalon
Mazda3
Lexus CT 200H
Toyota Highlander
Toyota Tundra
Lexus RX
Honda Accord
Acura TSX
Toyota Corolla
Honda CR-V
Toyota Sequoia
Toyota Venza
Nissan Leaf
Average Life of a Car
The average life of a modern car is estimated at eight years or 150,000 miles. If properly maintained, some vehicles can last for up to 15 years and reach 300,000 miles. This article is designed to ensure you get the most time and performance from whatever vehicle you may buy.
Unmaintained vehicles can become inundated with problems; costing thousands of dollars to keep them running properly. It’s best to handle repairs as soon as they are needed. Holding off on issues that don’t seem to be drastic can increase the damage and cost of repair. A vehicle protection plan is a great way to stifle these concerns and prevent costs from skyrocketing. To be sure your vehicle isn’t going to deplete your funds, look into Drivesmart’s service contracts for all your repair needs.
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When you’re behind the wheel of your vehicle, you’re probably not worrying about a break down unless there’s a visual or auditory cause for concern. Most drivers trust that, as long as the car can steer and brake properly while operating, a safe and successful journey is basically guaranteed. However, some car issues are not detectable until the situation is dire. Such is the case with your car’s water pump. If you’re driving with a bad water pump, you may find yourself stranded on the roadside. Because water pump failure can result in your car overheating, it’s important to know how a water pump works, signs of a bad water pump, and water pump replacement options.
What Does a Water Pump Do: How Does a Water Pump Work
The water pump in a car is responsible for pushing the antifreeze coolant through the cooling system. The water pump sends the coolant throughout the engine, cylinder head, radiator, heater core, and intake manifold through the connecting hoses and lines. This prevents the vehicle’s engine and components from overheating and also keeps the fluid from freezing in the colder seasons. The water pump is run using a serpentine belt, drive belt, or timing belt. This will vary from different vehicle makes and models.
Bad Water Pump Symptoms: How to Tell if Water Pump is Bad
A bad water pump can be tricky to spot because the symptoms can be caused by other components in the vehicle. These are the most common water pump failure symptoms:
Engine Overheating: Your vehicle may overheat due to problems with the water pump, radiator, thermostat, or hoses. If the engine overheats, it can result in a cracked cylinder head, blown head gasket, and burnt pistons. If not remedied quickly, this can destroy a vehicle’s engine completely. If a car is overheating, the dashboard lights will flash as a warning. The engine will also run more slowly, and the cooling system components will be hot to the touch.
Coolant Leak: A coolant leak can come from the water pump, radiator, gasket, or hoses. A leak that is caused by a bad water pump will be evident from where the leak is dripping. If the antifreeze is found pooling beneath the water pump when the car is parked, then the pump is the source of the leak. Likewise, if the coolant is landing beneath the radiator, the leak is likely coming from the radiator.
A water pump leak is normal. It is generally due to wear and tear with regular use of the vehicle. Coolant leaks are easy to spot as the coolant will be a bright green, yellow, or red color. Coolant leaks are serious and need to be repaired quickly. When a leak is found, the component that is leaking needs to be repaired or replaced quickly.
Whining Sound from Car: A whining noise or grinding sound is a reliable indicator of a loose water pump pulley. However, this can also be the result of a bad tensioner pulley or a slipping belt. If the water pump pulley is faulty, it can cause the bearings in the pump to wear down. If the bearings wear out, the water pump will need to be replaced.
Steam Coming from the Engine Bay: Steam rising out from beneath the hood of a vehicle can also be attributed to the water pump, radiator cap, or the radiator itself. Steam is usually the sign of an immediate problem; meaning that the vehicle must be stopped, safely, as soon as possible. The steam indicates that the coolant is not traveling through the cooling system properly.
Water Pump Problems:
When a water pump is causing a problem, it’s best to know what the root of the issue is. If one is aware of the reason for the pump’s malfunction, one can have the situation dealt with properly and take steps to avoid similar issues in the future. Some common reasons a water pump would be failing are:
The engine coolant has not been replaced recently enough. This creates grime and rust buildup that can ruin the water pump.
A seal can become worn with time, causing a leak.
The belt connected to the water pump is too taught. This puts extra pressure on the shaft and bearing; causing increased wear and leakage.
A damaged water pump bearing inhibits the pump’s rotation. This will cause the engine to overheat.
A gasket may have worn out over time, causing a leak.
How to Test Water Pump: How to Tell if your Water Pump is Bad
If a car is overheating or about to overheat, the culprit could be any one of the components in the cooling system. As mentioned above, the radiator, thermostat, or hoses and lines may become faulty. Any of these, including the water pump, could be the reasons for car overheating. Because these failing components will share similar symptoms, learning how to know if a water pump is bad will prove helpful in narrowing down the possibilities; saving time and money on the repair.
How to Tell if Water Pump is Working
Put the vehicle in park, remove the radiator cap, and start the engine. Let the engine run for approximately 20 minutes.
Look into the radiator opening to see if the coolant is flowing properly. If the coolant is not circulating, this could be caused by the water pump, thermostat, or radiator.
Replace the radiator cap and squeeze the upper radiator hose. Use a cloth or rag when squeezing the tube to prevent burning your hand. If the water pump is working, there should be a surge of coolant that runs through the hose when you release it.
If there is no surge of coolant through the radiator hose, the coolant is not flowing properly. Turn the heater in the car all the way up. If there is little or no heat coming from the air unit, this is an additional sign that the coolant is not circulating correctly.
Water Pump Bearing: Bad Water Pump Sound
If the water pump bearing is faulty, it will emit a squealing or grinding noise, and the pump shaft will not move properly.
Using a long screwdriver or a length of rubber hose, you can determine if the noise is coming from the water pump; as opposed to a squealing belt.
Place one end of the screwdriver or hose against the water pump and press your ear against the opposing end. If the bearings are worn, the squealing or grinding noise will be clear and distinct.
Check the water pump pulley by wiggling it by hand. If there appears to be damage or excessive movement, the water pump needs to be replaced.
Water Pump Seal Leak
If the water pump seal is broken, it will leak antifreeze coolant. A visual inspection of the water pump will expose such a leak.
The accessibility of the water pump will vary on different vehicle models. Some may require removal of the engine cover and/or raising the vehicle.
Once the water pump is visible, check the water pump weep hole. The weep hole will be located near the pulley; usually at the bottom of the pump. If the weep hole is damp, this is normal. Coolant dripping from the weep hole is indicative of a leak in the shaft seal.
Water Pump Replacement
Water pump repair and replacement is a job best left to professionals. Since replacing a water pump sometimes entails removing several other components, it’s a task not recommended for beginners. If you (or someone close to you) is mechanically inclined, you might consider learning how to change a water pump.
Most professionals advise having the timing belt replaced simultaneously with the water pump. These two parts have roughly the same service life. Installing a new water pump with an old belt will increase the workload of the pump and decrease its lifespan. Similarly, putting a new belt in with an old water pump will increase stress on the belt.
Water Pump Replacement Cost: How Much is a Water Pump
Due to the amount of labor involved in replacing a water pump, the cost is estimated at roughly $700. Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, national estimates range from $300 to $800 with parts and labor included. The cost of purchase for the water pump itself ranges between $50 and $100. Professionals caution car owners that a cheap water pump may save them money upon purchase, but will not perform as well or as long as a higher quality pump.
A water pump problem is one of the many things covered under a Drivesmart powertrain plan. It is important to have your vehicle regularly maintenanced before a problem arises as preexisting issues are not covered under any protection plans nationwide. If you're vehicle's mileage is getting high, powertrain coverage may be the best option to protect the engine, transmission, and their adjoining components.
It’s always best to stay ahead of repair issues before they worsen. Knowing the signs of a bad water pump, or the cooling system at large, is a major benefit for vehicle maintenance. A reliable protection plan on your car will ensure that, when expensive problems arise, you’re not stuck with an unexpected financial burden.
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There’s no better time for a NASCAR race than Fourth of July weekend, and DriveSmart was right in the center of it all in Daytona for the speed and spectacle taking place. DriveSmart had a pretty big stake in this race as they sponsored J.J. Yeley’s #52 Ford Mustang in the Coke Zero Sugar 400. All weekend long, the DriveSmart team was there to meet the crew, officials, fans, and NASCAR teams at this iconic American event.
DriveSmart Joins Rick Ware Racing: Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series
The race kicked off on Sunday, July 7th, at 1:00 PM at Daytona International Speedway. DriveSmart president Dan Rodd and his team arrived on Independence Day to meet the Rick Ware Racing team and prepare for this installment of the 2019 Monster Energy Nascar Cup Series. Rodd said of the NASCAR racing experience, “The team performed extremely well. The whole pit crew was excellent and J.J. Yeley drove smart; with great talent and professionalism.”
DriveSmart's Chris Doyle, J.J. Yeley, and DriveSmart president Dan Rodd
When asked about the work he witnessed behind the scenes, Rodd stated, “Watching the NASCAR officials work was amazing; they’re very rigorous. If a car is touched in any way prior to race time, it must be thoroughly reinspected before it is allowed to perform.” He went on to express his gratitude and joy in being permitted to sit with the crew chief during the race, carry equipment to the pit, and stand in line at the flag ceremony with Yeley.
NASCAR Daytona: Coke Zero 400
The NASCAR qualifying lineup for Sunday was set by owner points, as inclement weather prevented a qualifying race to take place. Joey Logano and Kyle Busch were awarded the lead at the starting line. J.J. Yeley drew position 37. The main event was also rescheduled from Saturday evening to Sunday afternoon due to the weather.
Race Day: Race Condition
Due to the troublesome weather of the days preceding, the race track had become quite slick. Throughout the race, NASCAR announcers would question the drivers’ decisions to forego the option to change their tires. Nevertheless, each race car driver (and their team) had a strategy for victory.
As the green flag came out, Joey Logano pushed out into lead position trailed by Kevin Harvick and Brad Keselowski. The Ford drivers lead the race for most of stage 1; holding the first nine positions by lap 30. As the train of Fords struggles to control the bottom lane due to tire wear, Logano leads the group to the outside lane. When, in lap 36, a train of Chevrolets begins to close in on the inside lane, Logano moves back down to protect the lead.
By lap 37, Logano realises he and the other Fords need to hit pit road and, on lap 38, all other drivers follow suit. However, not a single one of the race cars changes tires. Denny Hamlin, in the #11 car, nearly wrecks with Kyle Busch while attempting to pit.
The group of Chevrolets holds the lead briefly in lap 38 until the Fords catch up in the outside lane. Lead by Harvick, the whole train of Fords pulls ahead. The team of Chevys keeps control of the inside lane, lead by Chase Elliott. With three laps to go in stage 1, the inside line falls back due to worn tires.
In the final lap, Harvick moves to the inside lane, followed by Logano. Utilizing power from a bump by Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Logano pulls ahead to take first position and win stage 1.
Stage 2: Busch Spins Stenhouse Daytona 400
As the green flag comes out, Stenhouse leads on the outside lane with Elliott falling back after being pushed behind by the Fords. At Lap 58, Stenhouse drops to the inside lane to block Busch at turn four. At this point, Busch connects to the rear of Stenhouse’s car; spinning him backward into the grass. This starts a caution period.
Busch hits wall Lap 76
The car racing continues as Chase Elliott pushes Austin Dillon on the inside lane. Clint Bowyer pushes the #12 car on the outside to pull up even with the bottom lane. At lap 76, Busch connects with the wall on the outside lane, blows a tire, and spins out; resulting in a caution.
During lap 82, Harvick Pushes Keselowski into the outside wall. Harvick grinds against the wall and two other cars are caught up in what amounts to be a minor NASCAR crash. A caution is issued.
As rain approaches the race car track, it is announced that if the race cannot be continued after stage 2, results will be official.
With 5 laps remaining, Bowyer takes the lead with Stenhouse on his bumper. Austin Dillon controls the bottom lane and pulls ahead to take the win at the finish of stage 2.
Stage 3
By Lap 111, Logano pulls even to lead with Dillon and pulls down to side draft him. Denny Hamlin goes to lane three to drop Logano behind. Hamlin takes the lead into turn one.
In lap 118, Dillon comes out from behind Hamlin in attempt to squeeze into the lead, but his tail end catches the nose end of Bowyer’s car as they pull into the front.
The "Big One" Strikes Late at Daytona
Massive Daytona 500 Crash Takes Out 21 Cars "The Big One" | 2019 Daytona 500
As Dillon attempts to move into first position, he connects with Bowyer’s car. Both drivers lose control of their race cars; resulting in half of the cars on the Daytona race track taking serious damage in what turned out to be the largest of the race car crashes in this event.
J.J. Yeley expertly navigated through the wreckage scattered ahead of him. Before the damaged vehicles and debris are cleared from the track, Yeley takes clear advantage of the situation with smart and fast racing. The caution is issued and the pace car comes out.
NASCAR shuts the lights out on the pace car. There are concerns about the storm clouds getting close to the race course. Yeley makes it to 2nd position with two laps to go, but decides to head to the pit lane along with some other drivers for new tires.
Justin Haley is in first position for the restart. Before the green flag goes up, there is a lightning strike seven miles from the track that forces NASCAR to ultimately end the race. Yeley lands in position 12 with the DriveSmart car.
DriveSmart’s Nascar Experience
J.J. Yeley and the DriveSmart car
Everyone on the DriveSmart team was grateful to have Yeley behind the wheel of the DriveSmart car; particularly during the big crash. Few drivers could have avoided as many cars that had suddenly stopped and spread in front of a vehicle moving as fast as Yeley’s Ford.
When asked about Yeley’s decision to pit before the race ended, DriveSmart’s Dan Rodd said, “It was the right move to put the team in the best position for the last 30 laps. The fickle weather made strategic choices more difficult for all the drivers, but, were the race to continue, J.J.Yeley made the best call he could make.”
The NASCAR race Sunday was the final race to be held on Fourth of July weekend at the Daytona International Speedway. The DriveSmart team felt truly honored to be a part of NASCAR history in this regard. Dan Rodd is optimistic about DriveSmart’s future with NASCAR, stating, “This was the starting point to really expand our wings and be a presence at future NASCAR events. It’s a fantastic thing to be a part of. There’s no bigger fan than a NASCAR fan.”
Rodd also extended thanks and appreciation to Rick Ware Racing for having “one of the most beautifully wrapped cars out there…”
NASCAR Today
If you have a need for speed, NASCAR always has you covered. Watching a NASCAR live race or televised event is the best way to get the high-octane action you need. The NASCAR official site is the best place for race results, information on famous NASCAR drivers, and the NASCAR schedule.
NASCAR fans can also watch a full race, NASCAR highlights, and interviews at NASCAR Youtube. For everything you need in the world of auto racing today, NASCAR is the place for you.
DriveSmart wishes to extend it’s thanks to NASCAR, J.J. Yeley, and Rick Ware Racing. Remember to stay ahead of repair issues on your vehicle before they get out of hand. Repair bills on cars are higher now than they’ve ever been. A reliable protection plan on your car will ensure that your money stays in your pocket. Whether you’re driving on the race track or on the roadways of America, drive safe, drive smooth, and drive smart.
When we drive our cars, most of us aren’t really thinking about the complex mechanics of its inner workings. If it starts, accelerates, and stops when we want it to, we’re pretty much satisfied. However, commonly overlooked components like the Radiator are paramount to the vehicle’s smooth performance and longevity. A car radiator keeps you from landing on the side of the highway with an undrivable vehicle. In order to avoid this scenario, it’s good to know how a car radiator works as well as the fundamentals of car radiator repair.
What is a Radiator in a car: What Does a Radiator Do
A car radiator is a heat exchanger that transfers the heat of the fluid flowing through it to the air that blows through it from the front of the vehicle guided by the radiator fan. Just as a radiator in a building releases the heat collected within it, a car radiator collects and releases the heat produced by the engine to prevent engine overheating.
How a Car Radiator Works
As the engine in a car burns fuel, it produces a tremendous amount of heat. If this heat is not displaced properly, it can destroy car engine parts and thus, the engine itself. The cooling system works in a cycle in which the radiator cools the heated antifreeze coolant before it returns to the engine. These are the steps involved when an engine is cooled by a radiator:
As the engine does its work, it heats up the coolant fluid that is designed to absorb the excess heat the engine creates.
Once the antifreeze begins nearing its boiling point, it is released through a radiator hose to the radiator.
The antifreeze passes through tubes in the radiator as the heat it has absorbed is released into the atmosphere. This process is assisted by the radiator fan.
Because the fluid expands as it heats, it creates pressure. If the cooling system reaches a certain pressure point, the radiator cap acts as a release valve that opens and releases steam.
Any excess coolant is then allowed to escape into the radiator overflow tank attached to the side of the radiator.
Once the antifreeze is sufficiently cooled it is sent through another hose back to the engine.
Bad Radiator Symptoms
If the radiator is not operating correctly in a vehicle, it can become a very serious problem. Knowing the signs of car radiator problems can prevent expensive breakdown repairs as well as unsafe driving situations. Some tell-tale bad radiator symptoms are:
Car Overheating: If the vehicle is continuously overheating, this is a very common sign that the radiator is failing. The radiator’s only function is to cool the engine and transmission. If the radiator doesn’t perform its duties, the heat created by the engine cannot be displaced. This is one of the main reasons for car overheating. However, there are several other simpler car overheating causes such as low coolant levels in the system.
Coolant Leak: A car leaking antifreeze is not necessarily coming from the radiator, but it is indicative of a serious problem in the cooling system. An antifreeze leak will be easy to spot. The coolant will be a bright yellow, green, or red fluid and a leak will be apparent as the coolant will pool beneath the vehicle when it is parked. Antifreeze can leak from anywhere in the system; including the engine block, water pump, radiator, and hoses. A car leaking coolant should be dealt with quickly, before it leads to more complicated and serious problems.
Sludge Buildup in Radiator: If the coolant in the vehicle has a rusty or oily color, it means there’s a problem with the radiator. The antifreeze changes color when sludge builds up in the radiator. This occurs when the radiator is rusting or corrosion has caused transmission oil to mix with the coolant. If this is the issue, radiator replacement is needed to curtail extensive engine and transmission issues.
White Smoke from Engine: White smoke coming from under the hood or the tailpipe is a sign that the engine coolant is boiling and the pressure in the system is not being released properly. This could be due to a problem with the radiator hoses or the radiator cap. If the radiator cap is not functioning properly, the antifreeze is heating and expanding, but the pressure is not being released. Steam is being forced from the engine while the antifreeze burns and mixes to create white smoke.
Low Coolant: When a vehicle needs to have the coolant replenished frequently, it is most likely due to a leak. If the antifreeze level seems constantly low or the Low Coolant light comes on regularly, one of the components in the cooling system, such as the radiator, is leaking fluid. Vehicles with antifreeze leaks need to be repaired immediately before irreparable damage to the engine and transmission occurs.
Auto Radiator Repair Services
A radiator must work properly at all times. The cooling system works in a constant cycle and the radiator is the key point along the route for the coolant fluid to expel heat. It’s important to maintain the function of the radiator, as well as the cooling system at large, to ensure that the vehicle doesn’t begin to overheat on the road. These are some common causes for radiator problems:
Radiator Fan: The Thermostatically controlled fan behind the radiator, as well as the air naturally flowing through the front of the car, cools the antifreeze mixture as it enters the radiator. If the radiator fan isn’t working properly, the car may overheat when parked or idle. In this case, the fan or it’s motor need to be replaced.
Blocked Radiator: Debris such as dirt, leaves, and litter can become attached to the radiator. This debris obstructs the flow of air through the radiator and keeps it from properly cooling the antifreeze. Clearing the radiator off by hand or with a brush should be sufficient in eliminating this problem.
Rust and Corrosion: Although a modern aluminum radiator is built to be rust-resistant, corrosion is still possible. If the antifreeze is not properly mixed with water (or the antifreeze is old) it can begin to cause corrosion within the radiator and result in leakage. Some radiators have plastic parts that can crack over time as well. In this case, a licensed mechanic will know how to fix a radiator leak. If the leak cannot be mended, the radiator must be replaced.
How to Replace a Radiator
If you are someone who considers yourself to be mechanically inclined, you can replace a bad radiator on your own. Remember that all manufacturers build vehicles differently and this means that removal and installation of a radiator may differ slightly in procedure from car to car. With this in mind, knowing how to change a radiator can save you a lot of cash on repair bills and labor costs. A Radiator can be removed and replaced by following these simple steps:
Step 1: Check the radiator and hoses to ensure that the coolant inside is not hot. A hot radiator should never be opened, as hot coolant can burn you severely.
Step 2: Before the radiator can be removed, the coolant needs to be drained. Some radiators will have a drain on the bottom that can be opened with socket wrench. If the radiator has no drain, simply remove the clamp on the lower radiator hose and pull the hose end free. Be sure to have a drain pan ready to collect the coolant as it drains. Opening the radiator cap while draining will allow the fluid to drain quickly and with little splash.
Step 3: Make sure any additional lines that run to the radiator are disconnected. Some radiators have a transmission cooler built into them and these lines will also need to be disconnected before the radiator can be removed.
Step 4: Begin to remove the upper and lower radiator hoses. Loosen the radiator hose clamps using pliers or a screwdriver. Pinching clamps will require pliers; worm-gear clamps will need a screwdriver. Remove the hoses by twisting and pulling them away from the connection point.
Step 5: Disconnect the electric radiator fan from its connector. Using a socket wrench with the appropriate socket size, remove the cooling fan’s mounting bolts. You can then remove the radiator fan.
Step 6: Remove the radiator’s mounting bolts with a socket wrench. You may then lift the radiator out of the engine bay. Mount the new radiator into position and secure it with the mounting bolts.
Step 7: Reverse the steps for removal of the radiator. While installing the new radiator, if there are any caps over the fluid connection points, keep the caps on until the connection is being made. Removing them early will permit contaminants to enter the radiator. Once the radiator is installed, fill it with the proper mixture of antifreeze and water.
Step 8: Turn the engine on in order to circulate the antifreeze through the cooling system. Turn the heater controls all the way up in the passenger compartment and let it run. This will allow coolant to flow into the heater core and push any air from the cooling system.
Radiator Replacement Cost: How Much is a Radiator
If you need to replace your radiator, it tends to be an expensive endeavor. Radiator cost is estimated to range between $150 and $700. If your going to have the radiator replaced by a professional, with parts and labor costs applied, the price ranges between $300 and $1200.
Having a reliable service contracton your vehicle is the perfect way to steer clear of such high cost repairs. Getting protection on your vehicle before it overheats is important. Once a car or truck overheats, it immediately begins to cause damage to the vehicle. Without having a protection plan on your vehicle beforehand, these heavy repair bills can be a major burden on your bank account.
Drivesmart’s Advantage plan covers all repairs on radiators, radiator fans, water pumps, and more. If your vehicle has less than 175,000 miles, the Advantage plan may be the best protection plan for your car.
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Everybody knows vehicles are expensive. However, some of us fail to realize how pricey the repairs can be on a vehicle until we’re handed the bill. People all over the country are beginning to realize that a service contract (commonly referred to as an “Extended warranty”) is the only way to ensure that they don’t land in a hard financial situation with their car. Still, the question does remain in many people’s minds: “Do I really need an extended warranty?”. In this article, we’ll discuss when the best time to purchase a vehicle protection plan is, why it is important to have one, and which type of service contract is right for your car and your budget.
What is a Car Warranty: What is a Basic Car Warranty?
A car warranty (or factory warranty) is a service agreement provided by a dealership to a consumer when they purchase a new vehicle. The service agreement is put in place to cover the cost of repairs and maintenance for a predetermined number of years or miles once the vehicle is purchased. Each manufacturer has its own designations for the length of coverage under the new car warranty, though the most common structure in factory warranty coverage is for 3 years or 36,000 miles; whichever comes first.
What is a Powertrain Warranty: What is Included in a Powertrain Warranty?
Engine and Transmission
Pre-owned car dealerships typically sell certified used cars. What this means is that the vehicle is sold with a powertrain warranty in place. A powertrain warranty covers the repairs on the engine, transmission, and drive axle of a vehicle. These are typically the strongest components of the vehicle and have little risk of requiring repair or replacement. Used car dealerships tack these protection plans onto pre-owned vehicles to make customers feel more comfortable when they buy used cars.
Engine repair of any kind tends to be expensive. A transmission or drive axle repair job will set you back quite a bit as well. However, when purchasing a used car, remember that used car lots inspect each vehicle before they purchase them to ensure their investment is sound. If you're buying a car from a used car dealer, always check the mileage of the vehicle. Quality used cars will have low mileage, and will benefit from a more comprehensive service contract.
What is an Extended Vehicle Warranty
An extended vehicle warranty is a service contract that covers the cost of repairs after the manufacturer bumper to bumper warranty expires. There are two kinds of extended warranties for cars:
Manufacturer’s Extended Warranty: These protection plans provide for repairs to be done at the dealerships. However, these plans will not be honored at independent car repair shops. If you find yourself broken down on the road, and there is no car dealership that will honor your warranty nearby, you will be forced to pay for the repairs out of pocket at a franchised or privately owned repair facility.
Third-Party "Extended Warranty": Third-party extended coverage is underwritten by a company other than the manufacturer. Typically, with third-party coverage, the repair facility will contact the policy administrator to secure payment for services rendered. When buying a third-party protection plan, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the particulars of the policy and its restrictions.
Some third-party policies work as reimbursement coverage. In this case, the vehicle owner must pay the repair bill and submit a record of repair costs to the warranty provider for reimbursement. These plans can be problematic, as they may not cover the full costs and it may take weeks or months to be reimbursed. Conversely, a direct pay policy will cover the repair costs immediately with a corporate credit card, at no out-of-pocket cost to the owner other than the deductible.
When is The Best Time to Buy Car Warranty
The best time to buy a service contract for your vehicle is before the original factory warranty expires. Once the initial factory coverage has lapsed, the vehicle will no longer be eligible for the same level of coverage at a reasonable price. The longer you wait to activate protection on your car, the more mileage on your car accrues, and the premium for the protection plan will increase. If a vehicle owner wants to secure a protection plan on their vehicle after their factory warranty has expired, the only recourse is shopping and comparing rates, deductibles, and levels of coverage with a litany of providers who may or may not be credible. If you find yourself in this situation, it's best to check any companies rating with the Better Business Bureau(BBB).
It is not advised to buy vehicle service contracts from auto dealerships. After a customer spends hours with a sales associate, test driving cars and negotiating purchase prices, they are lead to the manager’s office to finalize the transaction. It’s at this point that the “up-selling” begins. This is where the customer is caught off guard and is bombarded with a long list of additional features like interior fabric protection, window tinting, gap insurance, and the extended warranty. Dealerships rely on pushing these extras on car buyers to maximize profits. Extended warranties are expensive, but when purchased hastily at the tail end of a car purchase, the customer isn’t given the time or clarity of thought to make an informed decision.
When you buy an extended warranty with your vehicle, the payment for the policy is lumped into the financing and monthly payments of the vehicle. This means interest fees, finance fees, and taxes are applied to the price of the service agreement. Buying a protection plan from a reputable third-party company allows the customer to pay the policy off monthly; with no dealership mark-up, finance fees, interest, or added tax.
Are Extended Car Warranties Worth it
The simple answer is, “yes”. Automobiles have always been complex machines. The amazing advances in technology over the past 30 years have only increased the complexity and sophistication of modern cars. Unfortunately, this means that vehicles have more components that may malfunction and, furthermore, the more sophisticated sensors and computer chips are far more expensive to repair and replace. “According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, prices for motor vehicle repairs were 61.07% higher in 2017 than they were in 2000.” (Jim Gorzelany- Forbes.com).
Some car owners look at car trouble as an inevitability and that paying for repairs as they occur is the only option. The truth of the matter is that repairs are expensive. After your hourly labor costs, diagnostic evaluation, and paying for the new parts themselves, the problem your vehicle is experiencing winds up becoming more and more costly.
With a service contract agreement, you set yourself up in a place where you don’t have to wonder what the mechanic is charging you. Obviously, a professional mechanic will decide what his work is worth and, realistically, he wants to make money. You might think that dealerships are making all their money by selling brand new, unbreakable cars. That simply isn’t true. So where do car dealerships make the most money? “That would be the service and parts department, where you’re probably not going to be able to negotiate a cheaper hourly labor rate for work [on your vehicle].” (Jim Henry- Forbes.com).
Buying New VS Used Car Warranty
It is important to be diligent when considering an "extended car warranty" for new vs used car repair coverage. Newer vehicles are a great fit for protection plans that cover as much of the vehicle as possible. Computer chips, electronics, sensors, and modern safety features can get pricey. Although the mechanical components on a newer car or truck should last for quite a while without malfunctioning, the more sensitive and expensive technology in the vehicle should be covered for the entirety of your ownership.
Older vehicles may not benefit from full comprehensive coverage, as the price of such a policy may be as much or more than the estimated worth of the car. If you buy affordable used cars or were gifted a free used car from a friend or relative, a program more akin to powertrain warranty coverage will be much more suitable. Powertrain coverage rates are lower, and, for vehicles with a lot of mileage, relieve the owner of the responsibility of expensive engine or transmission repairs.
Be sure you’re buying a service contract from a company you can trust. If a company suggests that they can put full warranty coverage on a vehicle that has gone over 150,000 miles, this is not true. Companies like Drivesmart have programs like the Ultimate Savers Club for drivers whose mileage prevents them from getting traditional warranty coverage. This program offers drivers roadside assistance, free maintenance such as fluid changes and brake work, as well as extensive savings on repairs.
Coverage for Repairable Vehicles
With a proper protection plan, repair and maintenance fees are no longer a concern. A good service contract will ensure that you don’t find yourself getting blindsided with a massive bill to repair your car. The reality is that we all have a budget. We all try to make our money last so we can get through life day to day as comfortably as possible. With vehicle protection, you have the comfort and relief to drive through your life smoothly, without landing in a financial pothole.
[post_title] => Purchasing a Service Contract for your car: When, Why, and Where
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Gas prices just aren’t what they used to be. We all long for the days when you could fill your gas tank without emptying your wallet. Oil prices have risen and gas prices have risen right along with them. Many drivers on the road today are looking for ways to cut down the amount of fuel they’re burning; both for budgetary and environmental concerns. After all, the climate change issue seems to be growing more and more serious. Many concerned citizens are taking steps to minimize air pollution in their everyday life. For these reasons, we’ve compiled some strategies for better gas mileage that are practical and simple for any car owner to utilize.
How to Improve Gas Mileage
Sometimes we fail to realize how much gas our cars are guzzling when we’re getting through life day to day. However, there are a lot of simple things that can be done to ensure you’re getting the best gas mileage for your vehicle. With some simple alterations to your driving patterns, techniques, and vehicle maintenance, you can significantly diminish the amount of fuel you burn each time you get behind the wheel.
Check Tire Pressure
Proper air pressure in your tires is important for two reasons:
Improved fuel efficiency
Prolonging the life of the tires
Check the tire air pressure at least once a month. Underinflated tires create rolling resistance which puts undue stress on the engine and burns more fuel. Deflated tires will also decrease in longevity, as the amount of tire wear is greatly increased. Most tires have a recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) between 30 and 36. Never over inflate a tire; this can cause the tire to burst.
How to Check Tire Pressure
Check the PSI max labeled on the sidewall of the tire.
Purchase a digital tire pressure gauge at any auto parts outlet.
If tires are deflated 5 PSI passed the recommended level, inflate the tires accordingly.
Change Air Filter
The air filter blocks dust, dirt, and debris from entering the engine. Anything that negatively affects car engine performance is going to decrease fuel economy. When the air filter becomes dirty, it clogs; blocking air flow to the engine. Replacing the air filter in your car can improve gas mileage by 15 percent.
Car Air Filter Replacement: How to Change Air Filter
It’s commonly recommended to replace an air filter every 12 months or every 12,000 miles. Many people simply have it included with an oil change at an auto shop, but that can double the price of the service. Air filter replacement can be done easily and quickly at home by taking the following steps:
Purchase a new air filter. Consult your owner’s manual for the proper size and type of filter for your vehicle. A new filter will cost between $10 and $15.
Locate the air filter box under the hood. It will be a black plastic box that sits on or next to the engine.
Remove the dirty filter. There will be some metal clasps keeping the air filter box closed. Simply pop them open, remove the top of the box, and remove the filter.
Install the new air filter. Slide it into the box and make sure it sits snugly. Put the top of the filter box back into place and snap the clips back on. The job is done!
Fuel Filter
The fuel filter prevents dirt, sand, grime, and other corruptive substances from entering the fuel injection system. With a bad fuel filter, the smallest bit of dirt can clog the injectors and seriously diminish gas mileage.
Fuel Filter Replacement
A vehicle’s fuel filter should be replaced every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. It is not recommended to attempt a fuel filter replacement unless you are mechanically inclined. Gasoline is flammable and dangerous. For this reason, it’s best to leave this job to a professional.
Fuel Filter Replacement Cost
To have a fuel filter replaced by a mechanic will cost between $50 and $165. As mentioned above, someone who is knowledgeable about vehicle repairs can do the job themselves. In that case, a fuel filter can be purchased at a cost between $15 and $60.
Oil Change
The oil in a vehicle’s engine acts as a lubricant and a cleaner. A clean engine obviously performs better than a dirty one. Oil change service should be done every three months or every 3,000 miles; whichever comes first. Getting a routine oil change is a great way to cut down on fuel consumption. An oil change typically costs somewhere between $20 and $55.
Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment service will ensure that you won’t be working to keep your car straight. Front end alignment is crucial to make sure your car is getting the best miles per gallon. Without proper tire alignment, the wheels are working against the suspension and increasing strain on the engine.
If your car is pulling to the left or right or the steering wheel shakes while driving, you should consider getting an alignment test done quickly; before the problem worsens.
How Much Does an Alignment Cost
Wheel alignment cost is estimated between $100 and $150 for four tires. Having only the front end wheels realigned will be closer to $50 and $75.
Spark Plugs and Wires
A bad spark plug will inhibit engine performance. Worn spark plugs and wires can be replaced by a professional pretty quickly. The average cost with labor included is estimated between $40 and $150. Getting new spark plugs installed will allow for faster ignition to the cylinders; resulting in more efficient fuel consumption.
Check Gas Cap
If the rubber seal on yourcar’s gas cap has become cracked or worn, an excess of air will enter the gas tank. When a loose gas cap lets air into the fuel delivery system, the engine will have to burn fuel faster than usual to do its job. In order to get better gas mileage, a new gas cap would be required.
A gas cap can be purchased at any auto parts outlet at a cost between $5 and $30. While cheaper gas caps will save you money, they may not be compatible with your vehicle’s sensors; which help to inform you when there’s an issue with the fuel delivery system.
Distributor Cap
A distributor cap is a component used in spark ignition systems to cover the distributor and rotor. Distributor caps also assist in sending electrical current from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. Distributor caps are considered wear items that need to be periodically replaced, as a bad distributor cap can impact engine performance and gas mileage.
Replacement is estimated between $90 and $125. The distributor cap and rotor should be replaced simultaneously every 50,000 miles, regardless of wear.
Car Air Conditioning and Car Windows
This may not sound like a great thing to do during the summer season, but, keeping your air conditioner off whenever possible, is a major way to take stress from your engine and decrease fuel consumption. It’s also best to keep your windows up to reduce drag on the car. Now, obviously on hotter days, one may choose comfort over frugality. In this scenario, the general rule of thumb is as follows:
Fast highway driving: Keep the air conditioner on and keep the windows up.
Slower local driving: Turn the air conditioner off and roll down the windows.
It’s also important to ensure your air conditioner unit is working properly. Auto air conditioning repair service can be expensive. That’s why it’s best to have it done as soon as an issue arises.Car air conditioning repair can cost between $170 and $730 if handled quickly. Untreated issues can worsen and result in repair costs between $1,000 and $4,000.
Gas Station Tricks
Few people realize that there are good and bad times to hit the gas pump. But there are two great tricks to help you get the best fuel efficiency and the best bang for your buck at the gas station:
Get gas in the morning: Most gas stations store the gasoline underground. In the morning, the storage tanks are cool; meaning the fuel will be denser than the afternoon when the sun’s heat makes it expand. Cooler fuel means your tank is being filled with more fuel and less air.
If the fuel truck is present, go somewhere else: Some people think that filling up when the tanker truck is there means they’re getting fresh gas. However, when the truck deposits the new gas into the underground storage tanks, it kicks up debris and sediment than can find its way into your engine. That’s never going to help with gas mileage.
Keep Your Car as Light as Possible
Any extra weight on your vehicle is going to put more work on the engine. A car or truck with an array of tools, luggage, or other cargo is going to get much less fuel efficiency than an empty vehicle. It’s best to keep only what you absolutely need in your car from day to day.
Drive Smart
When driving a vehicle, most people don’t take their driving habits into account when it comes to fuel efficiency. Even so, there are several changes we can make to the way we drive than can noticeably improve the miles per gallon a vehicle gets. Some great ways to improve your gas mileage include:
Driving Slow: In this modern era, everybody wants to get where they’re headed quickly. There’s no mystery as to why so many people get speeding tickets across the country. It may not sound appealing, but staying close to the speed limit will allow you to let off the gas more often and cruise to a stop at traffic lights and intersections. Reducing the amount of heavy braking and accelerating will cut fuel consumption significantly.
Don’t Ride the Brake: This goes hand in hand with the previous tip, but we all know drivers who either tap the brakes constantly, or drive with their left foot on the brake pedal. This is terrible for your engine performance and fuel economy. Watch the road ahead of you and brake softly; coasting into a stop.
Cruise Control: When driving on major highways, most drivers unconsciously match the speed of the vehicle in front of them. Not only is this unsafe, it’s also not very fuel efficient. When the driver in front of you brakes, you have no choice but to brake as well. Cruise control sets a safe speed and eliminates excessive braking and acceleration, which, in turn, has a significant impact on fuel economy.
No More Idling: An idling car uses a half gallon to a full gallon of fuel per hour. This also means the vehicle is needlessly pumping carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Modern cars have been designed to use less fuel when restarting, so letting your car run while you’re waiting for someone or something is no longer a helpful strategy. Newer cars also do not need time to warm up in the morning. Idling while your car warms up is less effective than driving slowly until the engine reaches operating temperature.
Ultimately, the lesson here is that regular maintenance of your vehicle, combined with conscientious driving, is the best way to save your fuel and reduce carbon emissions. While some of these tips may seem costly, the long term savings at the gas pump is a most beneficial reward. Drivesmart has a variety of protection plans to cut and eliminate the cost of maintenance and repairs. Issues with a vehicle’s suspension, air conditioning, or fuel system can be covered completely with Drivesmart’s Powertrain Plus plan. Drivesmart is dedicated to providing drivers with the information they need to make their car work best for them, as well as being there for drivers when repair bills pile up.
When you’re behind the wheel of your vehicle, you’re probably not worrying about a break down unless there’s a visual or auditory cause for concern....
Disclosure: DriveSmart offers Protection Plans or Vehicle Service Contracts (VSC) may be referred as “extended
car warranty”, or “auto warranty”. A VSC is not a warranty but provides repair coverage for your vehicle after
your manufacturer’s vehicle warranty has expired. The VSC contract is with you and the vehicles owner and the
VSC provider or administrator that will state what is covered in each plan.
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