cars-&-tech
Keeping your summer tires going strong
The tires on your vehicle wheels are literally rubber that meets the pavement, and for better or worse, the summertime can be your tires’ worst enemy. High heat, long road trips, and road construction projects can do a number on your summer tires. If we want to keep our wheels spinning to fall and winter, caring for your summer tires is a must. There are simple, proactive things you can do to maintain and to protect your tires during the summer months. Check out the list below to maintain the condition of your tires in what many call the dog days of summer. Before you buy new summer tires Before…
Will gas prices go down?
The heat wasn’t the only thing rising in the summer of 2022. Inflation impacted the cost of food, energy, apparel, and shelter and had consumers paying more for items such as chicken, eggs, and margarine. This increase in cost was most evident in gas prices, whos’ average price rose 59.9% between June 2021 through June 2022. We saw a little bit of relief at the pumps at the end of the summer. But, with more people returning to work, and many jobs transitioning back to in-office work, consumers are on the road more than they have been in the last two years. The average price of gas is beginning to…
Anti-theft systems for your car
It can feel like a real-life nightmare when your vehicle is stolen. Preventing your car from being stolen is much easier than dealing with the police and your insurance carrier and tracking down your vehicle after it’s gone. According to the NICB, auto thefts have increased by 25%, with nearly half a million vehicles stolen in the first have of 2022. But, there are steps you can take, including anti-theft systems and devices, that not only deter car thieves, but make stealing your car a near impossibility. What are anti-theft systems and devices? Simply put, anti-theft systems and devices are any features that are installed in your vehicle that make…
When will gas prices go down?
When will gas prices go down? The heat wasn’t the only thing rising in the summer of 2022. Inflation impacted the cost of food, energy, apparel, and shelter and had consumers paying more for items such as chicken, eggs, and margarine. This increase in price was most evident in gasoline prices, which rose 59.9% between June 2021 through June 2022. With more people returning to work, and many jobs transitioning from remote work to hybrid or in-office work, consumers are on the road more than they have been since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The increase in fuel costs, along with other inflation-related price hikes, is putting a strain on all…
Are Teslas worth it?
No matter how you spin it, the Tesla story is impressive. First entering the spotlight in 2013 when the Model S was unveiled, Tesla has become a rightful competitor to established American automakers like Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge. Since then, the company has set a slew of company and national records. The Model 3 became the world’s best-selling electric vehicle (EV) worldwide in 2019. Tesla’s annual deliveries increased by nearly 36% year-over-year in 2020. Finally, the company’s market cap outperformed any other manufacturer in 2020. If you’ve ever considered owning a Tesla, you’re not alone. Teslas are a popular choice for those looking to buy a luxury car that is also an electric car. Americans…
Leasing a Car vs. Buying a Car
There are so many decisions to make when it comes to vehicle ownership. What dealership should I go to? Should I go with a new or pre-owned vehicle? What make and model are the safest? When it comes to to decide about your next car, one question you might not be considering is leasing vs buying a car. It might be difficult to decide between purchasing and leasing an automobile. On the one hand, purchasing implies larger monthly expenditures, but in the end, you become the owner of an asset—your automobile. In contrast, a lease provides lower monthly payments and enables you to drive a car that may cost more…
Elephant How-To’s: Great Tips for All Drivers
We love maintaining our cars; they provide the transportation we need to live and work in our towns, cities and communities. Although the latest in technology has made vehicles safer, more efficient and advanced, regular maintenance is still key. There may even be times when you’ll find yourself on the side of the road in need of a jump start or tire change. Knowing how to fix your minor car issues, and how to maintain your vehicles can keep you safe, and keep money in your pocket. We’ve taken a look at some of the most common questions asked by drivers and vehicle owners. Luckily, there are common car tips…
How to Keep Your High-Mileage Vehicle Going Strong
The knights in shining armor of fairy tale fame wouldn’t be so brilliant without their noble steeds. The same can be said for today’s road warriors, whether commuting or vacation-bound. Motorists are getting the most out of their car-buying dollar, when you consider that the average age of cars on the road today is 11.4 years, according to IHS Automotive. This means that drivers are waiting more than a decade before turning their vehicles in for a new ride. It’s not just that they’re owning them longer; they’re also accumulating more miles. In fact, according to The New York Times, 200,000 miler vehicles are the new normal, replacing the 100,000…
How To Keep Your Tires Going Strong All Summer
The tires on your vehicle wheels are literally rubber that meets the road, and for better or worse, the summertime can be your tires’ worst enemy. High heat and humidity, extended travels on the road, and road construction projects require us to engage in the summer tire care if we want to keep our wheels spinning. There are simple, proactive things you can do to maintain and to protect your tires during the summer months. Check out the list below to maintain the condition of your tires in what many call the dog days of summer. Before you buy new tires Before you buy tires, you’ll need to know what…
Easy ways to upgrade your ride
Do you have the need? The need for speed? Or perhaps you’re just lucky to keep your junker rolling, but really want your new iPhone to work with your car’s speakers. Regardless, upgrades are what you’re after. Upgrades can range from the smallest tweaks all the way up to major system upgrades — the upgrades on this list will help improve your vehicle’s performance, comfort, and functionality. Whether you’re an avid car enthusiast or a student just trying to make it to class on time, a few simple upgrades can really help you get the most out of your ride. Performance upgrades Interior Add a steering wheel cover Cheap, effortless…