2017 Auto Preview

AUTO

PREVIEW

An in-depth look at the hottest cars, trucks and SUVs to hit the 2017 market.

Underriner Motors 2017 Honda CR-V Honda pulls the wraps off an all-new, fifth-generation CR-V for 2017. The completely redesigned and reengineered 2017 CR-V boasts bold new styling, a more premium interior, the model’s first-ever turbocharged engine and a host of new features and technologies.

The new CR-V styling heads in a fresh new direction with an aggressive attitude, thanks to crisp and sharp front-end design elements, aggressive stylized headlights surrounded by a wing-shaped LED DRL array on all trims, and wide, muscular fenders. The long hood, longer wheelbase, short rear overhang and dual exhausts give the new CR-V a more sophisticated and athletic presence.

Adding convenience is a Honda-first available Hands-Free Access Power Tailgate, which allows opening and closing the tailgate with a foot activated sensor under the rear of the vehicle. The CR-V offers the latest in-vehicle connectivity and audio performance with a new generation of technologies.

The 2017 CR-V in EX and higher trims features CR-V’s first ever turbocharged engine, a more powerful and fuel-efficient 1.5-liter direct-injected and turbocharged 4-cylinder powerplant rated at 190 horsepower. CR-V LX trims are powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine, and both engines are mated to a smooth shifting and sporty continuously variable

transmission with Honda G-Shift control logic. The all-new body and chassis design in the 2017 CR-V provides more agile and confident handling, greater refinement, additional ground clearance and superior overall versatility.

The 2017 CR-V raises the bar for interior refinement, utility and premium features. The more spacious cabin, with top-in-class interior space and the best rear seat legroom in its class, features upgraded materials throughout, including a new soft-touch instrument panel and more intricately stitched seats.  Base model estimated mpg: TBD  Estimated starting price: TBA

robust medium-duty off-road and towing capability with superior on-road, all-weather handling, traction and performance.

The Ridgeline’s 60/40-split and folding second-row seat provides the ultimate versatility for people- and cargo-hauling utility. With the seats folded down, the Ridgeline will comfortably carry up to five people while still accommodating long items, like a set of golf clubs, under the rear seat.

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline bed offers pickup users unmatched versatility in a midsize 4-door pickup. At 5’ wide and 5’4” long (5.4 inches wider and 4 inches longer than the previous generation Ridgeline), the Ridgeline

has the only 4-foot wide flat bed space (with 48 inches between the rear wheel arches) in the midsize pickup class, allowing for flat hauling of items like plywood sheeting or drywall. The Ridgeline also offers payload capacity rivaling top competitors, approaching 1,600 pounds.

The composite, UV-stabilized and scratch-resistant bed also boasts a number of available Honda-exclusive features that add to its versatility, including an In-Bed Trunk, dual-action tailgate, available 400-watt AC power inverter and the industry’s first in-bed audio system.  Base model estimated mpg: 19/26  Estimated starting price: $29,475

striking appearance. The front is dominated by a hexagonal-shaped grille enhanced by available high-efficiency LED twin-projector headlights.

On the inside, a premium, wrapped instrument panel is offered, with extra-wide instrument panel contours to enhance occupants’ overall sense of interior roominess. All interior switchgear has a more refined feel during operation.

Tucson base models offer the 2.0-liter, direct-injected four-cylinder with 164 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission.

2017 Tucson Eco, Sport and Limited models offer the 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder with 175 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. Peak torque de-

livery starts at only 1,500 rpm and holds through 4,500 rpm, for low-RPM responsiveness and performance in everyday driving conditions. The turbo engine is coupled to a first-in-segment seven-speed EcoShift dual-clutch transmission.

Tucson offers an advanced AWD system that allows a differentiated torque split between front and rear wheels, for off-road and extremely slippery road conditions. The system also includes Active Cornering Control, which automatically transfers torque to the wheels with the most traction.  Base model estimated mpg: 23/30  Estimated starting price: $22,700

2020, through world first safety technologies and highly advanced semi-autonomous features.

Three engine choices are available: the awardwinning four-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged T6 engine, the turbocharged T5 variant and the clean and powerful T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid.

Volvo Cars is introducing an advanced version of the company’s semi-autonomous Pilot Assist software on the all-new 2017 Volvo S90 sedan and making it standard on all S90s sold in the United States.

Pilot Assist was first introduced on the 2016 Volvo

XC90 and allows the vehicle to accelerate, decelerate, come to a complete stop and steer in road conditions with clear lane markings based on the car in front up to speeds of 30 miles per hour.

The second generation Pilot Assist on the 2017 Volvo S90 will allow these functions to work up to highway speeds (80 miles per hour) without the need for a pilot car. The Volvo S90 is the first car in the United States that makes semi-autonomous Pilot Assist technology standard equipment.  Base model estimated mpg: 23/34  Estimated starting price: $46,950

2017 Honda Ridgeline The 2017 Ridgeline is a rigid yet lightweight unibody truck with a fully independent suspension, delivering a higher level of ride and handling refinement than conventional body-on-frame designs.

The Ridgeline is powered by a 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter, direct-injected i-VTEC V-6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, providing 262 lb.-ft. of torque.

The Ridgeline is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. All-wheel-drive models utilize Honda’s i-VTM4 torque vectoring AWD technology, featuring Intelligent Terrain Management with Normal, Sand, Snow and Mud modes, providing

2017 Hyundai Tucson The Tucson lineup continues to improve its offering to consumers for the 2017 model year. The improvements span everything from interior detail and material enhancements to premium audio, infotainment and connectivity.

Tucson continues to offer a pair of fuel efficient drivetrains and a stylish, roomy interior. A host of advanced safety features are available including a Lane Departure Warning system, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Backup Warning Sensors and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB).

Tucson employs refined aesthetics with sculpted body forms and sporty contours for an athletic, bold and

2017 Volvo S90

The all-new 2017 Volvo S90 sedan is a bold entry into the luxury sedan market and sets a new standard with superior materials, technology, comfort and classleading semi-autonomous features.

The Volvo S90 combines Scandinavian design with cutting-edge safety and cloud-based applications and services. The interior makes use of the Sensus Connect touchscreen, providing a clutter-free interior with minimal dashboard buttons.

The 2017 Volvo S90 introduces another step toward Volvo’s Vision 2020, which states that no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by the year

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2017 Auto Preview

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255-2350 I-90 & ZOO DRIVE EXIT 2017 VolVo S90

2017 Buick enViSion

2017 Hyundai TucSon

2017 Honda odySSey

2017 Honda cRV

2017 Honda Ridgeline

A Better Buying experience

A Better Buying experience

A Better Buying experience

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A Better Buying experience A Better Buying experience

A Better Buying experience

A Better Buying experience

A Better Buying experience Saturday, December 10, 2016

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2017

AUTO

PREVIEW

General Manager Dave Worstell Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Advertising Manager Shelli Scott Special Sections Coordinator Spencyr Knatterud 2017 Auto Preview is a special advertising section of The Billings Gazette

Advertiser Index Underriner Motors ...................................................................3 Billings Federal Credit Union ..................................................5 Denny Menholt Chevrolet ........................................................7

Five steps to buying a new car

Article Index Five steps to buying a new car ................................................4 Prepare vehicles for harsh weather .......................................5 Choose the right tire for your vehicle and season ................8

1. Set your budget

What to do after being involved in a car accident.................9

Determine the amount you can afford to pay every month. Keep in mind that a bigger down payment will help you significantly lower your monthly payments.

Don’t forget to take into account all the other expenses involved in owning a car: fuel, maintenance, insurance and annual registration costs.

Address windshield damage promptly ................................10 Make your vehicle less vulnerable to theft ...........................11 All automotive reviews and photos were compiled by Motor Matters.

Access the 2017 Auto Preview at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections

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Are you getting ready to shop for a new car? Follow these essential steps to make sure you don’t buy a lemon or miss out on any great deals.

Saturday, December 10, 2016

to be able to carry heavy loads when necessary? Your main priority is fuel efficiency?

Think about whether you need an automatic or manual transmission and air conditioning or a backup camera. Decide which features are essential for you and which ones are luxuries you can do without.

3. Shop around Read car reviews and compare the prices and features of the different models. Select the vehicles you prefer and ask friends and family members about the quality of customer and after-sales service at the dealerships in question.

during the day, in the city and on the highway. Tip: try a few cars to compare them, and ask someone to go along with you for a second opinion.

5. Negotiate Did the test drive convince you? You now need to agree on the price. Ask all the questions you can think of and make sure you understand what the price includes. If you buy a used vehicle, check its history and have it inspected by an independent mechanic to avoid having any unpleasant surprises later on.

The details are settled and you’re ready to shake hands? Read over all sales docu4. Test drive the car ments before signing them. Then, once A test drive is essential in order to as- your car is properly insured, you’ll be Which model best suits your require- sess the vehicle for comfort, blind spots, ready to hit the road. ments: are you planning on starting a family quality of ride and the engine’s pep. Idesoon, or you already have children? You’d like ally, you should test the car at night and

2. Decide what you want and need

2017 Auto Preview

Prepare vehicles for harsh weather As the seasons change, motorists must take steps to safeguard their vehicles, especially when the season changes from fall to winter.

Each winter, many vehicles are subjected to subzero temperatures, snowfall and icy roads, and such conditions can take their toll on vehicles over time. Taking steps to prepare vehicles for winter weather is a vital step that can make cars and trucks safer for drivers and their passengers.

Battery Old batteries should be replaced before winter begins. Without a strong, properly functioning battery, engines cannot turn over. Most batteries last between three and five years.

However, extreme cold can compromise batteries, especially those that have been around awhile.

Batteries are made up of acid and water, and cold temperatures can freeze the water, thereby affecting battery performance. According to AAA’s Automotive Research Center, at 32 F, the average battery loses 35 percent of its strength.

Newer batteries can be protected by starting Tire pressure According to the automotive retailer Pep the vehicle each day to warm up and recharge Boys, vehicle tires lose a pound of air pressure the battery. Let the car run for at least 10 minfor every 10-degree drop in temperature. Many utes if you cannot take an extended drive. modern cars will alert to changes in air pressure, and drivers should be diligent in maintainExterior maintenance ing the proper tire pressure. Fuel economy as Keeping a car waxed and sealed can help well as handling ability can decline when tires maintain a durable exterior finish. This includes are not inflated properly. Tires can be refilled at not only the paint, but the rubber and vinyl parts many gas stations for little cost. of the car’s exterior.

Winter is a good time to switch to a heavyduty synthetic wax that can shield against wa- Wipers Visibility is key in hazardous weather conter and road salts. High-quality sealants can be used on bumpers, trim and rubber door seals ditions, and keeping the windshield clean is a as added protection. Speak with an automotive priority. This means ensuring there is enough retailer or even the car dealership if you are un- windshield wiper fluid in the car and that it is a sure which products will make your car’s parts product that will not freeze.

Wiper blades can freeze and crack in the most durable for winter weather. winter.

Older blades may be more susceptible Do not stop washing your car just because to damage.

It’s a worthy investment to replace the weather is cold. Slushy, wet roads and snowmelting salts can speed up the formation of rust existing wiper blades at the start of each winter. or other decay on the undercarriage of the ve- When vehicles are parked, pull the wipers off of the windshield to safeguard them from sticking hicle.

These materials will need to be periodically and cracking. cleaned off. Flush the underside of the vehicle Cold weather requires drivers to amp up whenever possible, taking advantage of any dry, their vehicle maintenance routines. Consult slightly warmer days. with a mechanic or automotive retailer for more ideas and products that can help your vehicles operate safely and efficiently this winter.

2017 Auto Preview

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www.billingsfcu.org 760 Wicks Lane • 2522 4th Ave. N • 32nd & King Ave. W Saturday, December 10, 2016

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Denny Menholt 2017 Chevrolet Corvette GS With Corvette Racing in its DNA, the all-new 2017 Corvette Grand Sport is a pure expression of the car’s motorsports-bred pedigree.

Like the 2015 Le Mans-winning Corvette C7.R GTE Pro race car, the new Grand Sport combines a lightweight architecture, a track-honed aerodynamics package, Michelin tires and a naturally aspirated engine.

The 2017 Corvette Grand Sport is equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 engine that delivers 460 horsepower, backed by either a seven-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. It offers an estimated 1.05g in cornering capability — and up to 1.2g with the available Z07 package.

Engineers adapted the chassis tuning, upgraded cooling systems, and performance technologies of the Corvette Z06 to give the new Grand Sport capability commensurate with its racing-derived history.

The result is a potent track car. In fact, the Grand Sport with the Z07 package is less than one second off the track record for the previous-generation Corvette ZR1 on the road course at GM’s Milford Proving Ground.

In addition to track-focused aero elements, the Grand Sport also features specific front fender inserts, a Z06-style grille and wider rear fenders — a distinctive

design package that gives the car a track-ready attitude.

Grand Sport models are offered with the Stingray’s full exterior and interior color palette. An available Heritage package includes hash-mark fender graphics in six colors, with the hash-mark detail carried onto the interior’s brushed aluminum trim. Full-length stripes are also offered.

The Grand Sport Collector Edition features an exclusive Watkins Glen Gray Metallic exterior with Tension Blue hash-mark graphics, satin black full-length stripes, black wheels and a unique Tension Blue full leather and suede-wrapped interior.

2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback Developed with all the technologies and dynamic driving attributes of the Cruze sedan, the new 2017 Cruze hatch adds a functional and sporty choice for customers.

The Cruze Hatch has the same, class-leading wheelbase as sedan models, but features a unique roof and rear-end structure — including wraparound taillamps and an integrated spoiler at the top of the liftgate. It opens to offer 22.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat. With the rear seat folded, cargo space expands to 47.2 cubic feet.

2017 Chevrolet Silverado HD New for 2017, Chevrolet Silverado HD trucks feature a patented air intake system that drives cool, dry air into the engine for sustained performance and cooler engine temperatures during difficult driving conditions.

Marked by a dramatic hood scoop, the all-new air intake system provides 60 percent of the air to the Duramax diesel engine from an inlet at the front of the hood. Cooler air helps the engine run better under load, especially in conditions where engine and transmission temperatures can rise quickly.

The design of the 2017 Chevy Silverado HDs is all about functional form, with elements such as a grille

Powering the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze hatchback is a 153-horsepower, 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 117 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. A diesel engine with an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission and sixspeed manual will be offered in the spring of 2017.

Standard equipment includes Chevrolet MyLink with a 7-inch diagonal color touchscreen; a rear-vision camera; standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility via the MyLink radio systems; and available 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot, plus Chevrolet’s exclusive Teen

Driver safety system that allows parents to set controls, review driving habits and encourage safe driving habits even when they are not in the vehicle.

Available features include a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, Athens leather-appointed seating surfaces with true French seams, and halogen projector-beam headlamps with LED signature lighting.

The 2017 Cruze hatchback has a host of available advanced safety technologies: front collision alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear park assist, lane-keeping assistance, and side blind zone alerts.

designed to deliver more efficient airflow to the cooling system and engine air intake, helping maintain power when towing under adverse conditions.

The bold and upright two-port grille is flanked by prominent headlamps pushed to the corners. Halogen projector-beam lamps are standard on all models.

Silverado HDs’ cabs also feature inlaid doors, which fit into recesses in the bodyside to help reduce wind noise for a quieter cab, and the double cab body features front-hinged rear doors with outside pull handles at the rear, for easy access in tight parking spaces.

Gas and Duramax diesel powertrains are offered

across the lineup, including a bi-fuel option that allows the gas engine to run on compressed natural gas.

The powertrains contribute to the Silverado HDs’ greater payload and towing ratings, including a maximum conventional trailering rating of 20,000 pounds and a max fifth-wheel/gooseneck trailering rating of 23,200 pounds.

The Duramax 6.6L turbodiesel is rated at 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft of torque. The Allison 1000 backs the Duramax engine with features that support its tremendous torque with driver-control features that make hauling and towing easier.

The interior takes advantage of the Equinox’s all-new architecture to offer a down-and-away instrument panel, while a low windshield base provides a commanding outward view. New elements such as available denim-style seat fabric blend high style with high durability, while a new “kneeling” rear seat enhances functionality. With it, the bottom cushions tilt forward when the split-folding seatbacks are lowered, allowing a flat floor for easier loading.

The 2018 Equinox offers purposeful technology that helps keep passengers safe, comfortable and connected.

Chevrolet’s latest connectivity technologies are front and center, including 7- and 8-inch-diagonal MyLink infotainment systems designed to support Apple CarPlay and

Android Auto, as well as an available OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2018 Equinox offers a comprehensive suite of available active safety technologies and adaptive crashavoidance features that provide ease of use and peace of mind on the road.

A range of three turbocharged engines — including the compact SUV segment’s first turbo-diesel in North America — provides customers more choices when it comes to performance, efficiency and capability in the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox.

They include a 1.5L turbo, a 2.0L turbo — matched with GM’s new nine-speed automatic transmission — and a 1.6L turbodiesel.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox Chevrolet introduces the all-new 2018 Equinox, a fresh and modern SUV sized and designed to meet the needs of the compact SUV customer.

The new 2018 Equinox’s expressive exterior has a lean, muscular skin echoing the global Chevrolet design cues and sculpted shapes seen in the Volt, Malibu and Cruze. Extensive aero development in the wind tunnel influenced the sleek shape.

It is a richer, more detailed design featuring chrome trim on all models and Malibu-inspired styling. Projectorbeam headlamps are standard, along with LED daytime running lamps. At the rear, horizontal taillamps emphasize the Equinox’s wide stance, while uplevel models feature LED taillamps.

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Saturday, December 10, 2016

2017 Auto Preview

2017 Silverado LAST NAME DEPENDABLE, FIRST NAME MOST

“Highest Ranked Large Light Duty Pickup in initial Quality, Two Years in a Row”

by J.D. Power in 2016.26

You don’t build a legacy as the most dependable, longest-lasting fullsize pickups on the road by chance. You do it with strength, capability and advanced technology that stand the test of time. And the test of miles. No wonder Silverado was awarded the “Highest Ranked Large Light Duty Pickup in Initial Quality, Two Years in a Row” by J.D. Power.

2018 equinox GO AhEAD, hAvE A MOMENT

The all-new 2018 Equinox is more than just a way to get around. It’s the perfect balance of everything you want and need-from style and versatility to performance and safety. Not to mention there’s plenty of technology to help keep you connected and entertained.

2017 Cruze NEvER STOP MOvING

Whether you’re zipping around city streets or navigating winding roads, the new 2017 Cruze Sedan and first-ever Cruze Hatchback are made to work hard for you. With a unique combination of entertainment technology, remarkable efficiency and available advanced safety features, this sporty compact car helps you get where you’re going without missing a beat.

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2017 CorveTTe ThE CORvETTE GRAND SPORT RETuRNS

The latest member of the Corvette lineup, the 2017 Grand Sport carries on the racing spirit of the original 1963 model, combining the power of the legendary LT1 6.2L engine with a lightweight, race-bred chassis and aerodynamics package to provide incredible grip and handling.

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Pick the right tire for your vehicle and season Motorists spend hours behind the wheel and spend lots of money on maintenance to ensure their vehicles are in top working order. But tires are one area of maintenance that often goes unchecked, even by the most diligent automobile owners.

Tires undergo a lot of wear and tear, which only highlights the importance of proper tire maintenance. But many drivers do not give tires a passing thought until there is a problem, such as a flat or excessive wear. Also, some drivers think that all tires are the same, failing to realize that the kind of tires vehicles need depends on various factors. In addition to the size and type of vehicle, drivers should consider the type of driving they do and the driving conditions they routinely encounter before choosing tires for their vehicles. Many vehicles come off the lot with all-season passenger tires because these tires are among the most versatile. However,

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if you live in a particular climate or do a lot of driving that requires specific traction or maneuverability, all-season tires may not be the best bet. The following are descriptions of common tire types and the conditions in which they might make the best fit.

All-season All-season tires provide all-season versatility, good wear and ride comfort. They can be dependable tires and offer light snow traction as well.

All-season tires provide adequate protection in many conditions, but do not offer specific benefits in any one area. They’re likely to be satisfactory for a vast array of drivers. All-season tires are typically offered in touring and passenger types. Touring will provide lower road noise and better handing, while passenger varieties offer a smooth ride and longevity.

Summer tires

Performance tires

Summer tires are designed to offer traction and maneuverability in warm weather. Orbital grooves and complex treads maximize traction in hot, humid weather. If you live in an area where the temperature is consistently steamy, summer tires may be a good investment.

Performance tires offer a sports car feel.

These are meant for drivers who want to feel the road and increase low-speed traction. The higher the level of performance, the increased level of handling and stability at high speeds.

Winter tires A safety precaution for many people who live where conditions often include snow, ice and cold weather, winter tires can be lifesavers. These tires are designed using several different types of rubber, and feature tread designs that maximize traction during inclement conditions. Winter tires also come in various subcategories. Studdable winter tires provide the extra security of added studs to enhance traction on ice. Performance winter tires offer better dry road handling, but traction on snow and ice may be compromised.

Truck tires Trucks, pickups and SUVs also have a variety of tire types. There are off-road varieties, which will offer an aggressive tread design for off-road traction and other obstacles. Light truck tires help provide durability and traction. Specially designed SUV tires may be large, but can still offer comfort-focused applications designed for on-road driving.

Drivers looking for better performance from their tires should speak with a tire retailer about the options available to them.

2017 Auto Preview

What to do after being involved in a car accident Car accidents happen every day, and rare is the experienced driver who has not been involved in at least one accident during his or her time behind the wheel. Drivers or passengers who have been involved in previous accidents may react calmly when involved in another accident, but the experience of being in a car accident can be shocking to those people who have never before been involved in a car crash.

According to the World Health Organization, there were 1.25 million road traffic deaths across the globe in 2013. But not every traffic accident involves a fatality, and many are minor incidents in which all involved parties walk away unharmed. Unfortunately, all traffic accidents, however minor they may be, have financial ramifications, and it’s in drivers’ and passengers’ best interest to familiarize themselves with the right way to respond to traffic accidents should they find themselves in a crash.

Dial emergency services After pulling over and out of traffic, drivers and passengers involved in traffic accidents should dial 9-1-1 emergency services. If drivers are incapable of pulling onto the shoulder or out of the way of oncoming traffic, immediately put on the vehicle’s hazard lights and dial 9-1-1. Enlisting the help of emergency services like 9-1-1, even when no one appears to be injured and no vehicles seem to be damaged, is necessary beirate and/or confrontational, wait until the po- are required by law to report the accident to the cause the presence of a neutral third party like lice arrive to exchange insurance information local motor vehicle agency. Some areas require a police officer or emergency medical technician and do your best to avoid this person. this, while others do not. can be helpful should the accident ultimately lead to legal action.

Exchange insurance information After each driver has pulled over and is out of harm’s way, attempt to exchange insurance information. If you lost your insurance card or can’t find it in your vehicle, don’t panic. Simply use your mobile phone to call your insurance company and get your policy number. Police may let you off the hook if you can provide proof of insurance, even if you don’t have any such proof in your vehicle. If the other driver appears 2017 Auto Preview

Obtain a police report

Take photos

Police reports are vital, even when accidents are minor. Insurance companies may not pay damages if no police report has been filed and the involved parties have differing accounts of the accident. And drivers’ premiums may increase if they are involved in an accident in which no one is deemed at-fault. Always protect yourself after a traffic accident by calling the police and obtaining their official report of the incident. Also, ask the responding officer if you

If you have a smartphone or camera on hand, take as many photos of the accident as you can without risking your safety. Time-stamped photos may help you should a lawsuit or other legal action be taken in the future.

Car accidents can be scary, and knowing how to respond to accidents can help drivers and passengers make the best of unfortunate situations.

All traffic accidents, however minor they may be, have financial ramifications, and it’s in drivers’ and passengers’ best interest to familiarize themselves with the right way to respond to traffic accidents should they find themselves in a crash.

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Address windshield damage promptly Windshields are designed to protect drivers and their vehicles from wind and other natural elements while the cars are in motion.

Windshields are made from tempered glass, which is processed by controlled thermal or chemical treatments to increase its strength compared to normal glass. While relatively strong for a pieces of glass, windshields are not impervious to damage. All it takes is a single rock or piece of road debris to be kicked up from the roadway and hit the windshield to cause a problem.

Every day, motorists encounter pebbles or other small missiles that bounce up from the road and come in contact with their windshields. Many deflect with no problem, but under high speeds, debris can cause chips,

dings, and even cracks in the windshield.

Cracks easily spread from road vibration and heat and can compromise the integrity of the windshield.

If your car’s windshield is cracked and it shatters during a collision, you and your passengers are at great risk of injury. In addition, police officers can write tickets if windshields appear to be unsafe. So it’s in drivers’ best interests to repair damaged windshields promptly.

Drivers may be able to repair small dings themselves with a do-it-yourself windshield kit available at automotive retailers. If a crack is less than six to 12 inches long, it can probably be repaired as well. However, more significant damage will require that the entire windshield be replaced.

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2017 Auto Preview

Make your vehicle less vulnerable to theft Vehicle theft is something few people imagine happening to them. Until it does. While many motorists may think technology has done wonders to curb vehicle theft, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that a motor vehicle is stolen every 46 seconds in the United States.

Auto theft is sometimes mistaken as a victimless crime. After all, insured motorists are typically reimbursed for stolen vehicles, and drivers whose cars are returned after being stolen can simply submit a claim to have any damages paid for by their insurers. But this characterization of auto theft is untrue, as all motorists, whether their car’s been stolen or not, pay for auto theft.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada notes that each year auto theft costs Canadians roughly $1 billion. That figure includes the $542 million insurers pay to fix or replace stolen vehicles each year.

Those costs are ultimately passed on to customers, who then indirectly pay for the actions of car thieves.

Curbing auto theft is not necessarily the job of drivers, but there are things motorists can do to reduce the likelihood that their car will be stolen by opportunistic thieves.

Avoid keyless ignition systems Drivers who live in areas that are vulnerable to auto theft may want the peace of mind that comes with traditional keyed ignition systems instead of the more modern and flashy keyless ignition systems.

While vehicles with keyed ignition systems are stolen every day, some thieves may find it easier and quicker to steal cars or trucks with keyless ignition systems. Thieves can copy keys used in traditional ignition systems, but that process may require access to the original key and tends to take longer than it takes for thieves to reprogram keyless ignition systems once they’re inside a car.

Reprogramming devices are not legal, but they are available and can be used to shut off automobile alarm systems in a matter of seconds.

2017 Auto Preview

Lock your vehicle at all times One of the simplest ways to protect a vehicle from prospective thieves is to always lock the windows and doors, even when you’re inside the vehicle. Auto thieves like things to go quickly and smoothly, and locked doors and rolled up windows only complicate things for thieves. Get in the habit of locking the vehicle when you’re driving, as unlocked doors make it easier for carjackers to surprise unsuspecting motorists.

scratched by inattentive drivers and passengers getting into and out of nearby vehicles. Others may simply not have the patience to find parking spots in well-lit areas close to home or storefronts. But thieves may target vehicles parked nowhere near foot or automobile traffic. Always park in parking garages or other well-lit areas, which deter thieves from breaking in and driving away with your vehicle.

for a chop shop, which is a place where stolen cars are disassembled and then sold for parts.

By etching the VIN, or vehicle identification number, of your car or truck on your vehicle’s windshield or windows, you may be making your car less attractive to prospective thieves and the chop shops they do business with.

Vehicle theft remains a problem even as technology has done much to prevent it. But Etch the VIN onto your windows drivers can take steps to reduce their risk of beCar thieves are not in the auto theft business Park smart ing victimized by car thieves.

Some motorists like to park far away so so they can build a fleet of stolen cars. Upon their vehicles are not at risk of being dinged or stealing a car, many car thieves head right Saturday, December 10, 2016

11

TOP 10

REASONS TO BUY A CAR NOW! 1 Dealers have money to lend. Banks want to compete for your loans, now more than ever before.

2 Competition between dealers and manufacturers is strong. This means better deals for you!

3 Large dealer inventory means you have more choices without waiting for delivery.

4 New models have better technology and are the safest, most reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles out there.

5 Highly competitive factory-to-dealer incentives and rebates make the prospect of buying a new vehicle extremely attractive.

6 Service and repair costs on your current vehicle may end up costing more than the vehicle is worth.

Many dealers & manufacturers offer service plans on new vehicles.

7 Buying in Billings means that you will buy, service and maintain a relationship at the same place, with the same people.

8 Buying a vehicle in Billings creates jobs, ensures job security and stimulates our local economic growth.

9 Buying in Billings means that you don’t have to drive far to find the best deals.

10 Dealers are ready to earn your business.

Take full advantage of it!

E12

Saturday, December 10, 2016

NewCar BuyersGuide CadillaC rimrock GMC Cadillac 840 south shiloh road shiloh and King Billings, MT

406-651-5000 www.rimrockcadillac.com

Chevrolet rimrock Chevrolet 202 se 4th street Laurel, MT At Laurel exit

rimrock GMC - Cadillac

840 south shiloh road shiloh and King Billings, MT

406-651-5000

www.rimrockgm.com

Jeep Lithia Dodge of Billings

2229 King Ave West Billings, MT

406-206-4109

www.lithiadodgebillings.com

866-596-8677 www.rimrockChevrolet.com

Chrysler Lithia Dodge of Billings 2229 King Ave West Billings, MT

406-206-4109 www.lithiadodgebillings.com

dodge Lithia Dodge of Billings 2229 King Ave West Billings, MT

406-206-4109 www.lithiadodgebillings.com

gMC rimrock Commercial Trucks 840 south shiloh road shiloh and King Billings, MT

406-655-7575 www.rimrockgm.com

Kia rimrock Kia

412 s. 24th st West Billings, MT

406-651-5500

www.rimrockkia.com

linColn Bob Smith Motors 2244 Central Ave Billings, MT

406-656-0000

www.bobsmithmotors.com

Mazda Bob Smith Mazda 2244 Central Ave Billings, MT

406-656-0000

MitsuBishi Bob Smith Mitsubishi 2244 Central Ave Billings, MT

406-656-0000

www.bobsmithmotors.com

sprinter CoMMerCial truCKs Mercedes-Benz of Billings 3045 King Ave West Billings, MT

877-375-9645

www.mbbillings.com

suBaru rimrock Subaru 324 s 24th st W Billings, MT

406-651-5200

www.rimrocksubaru.com

toyota Lithia Toyota of Billings 1532 Grand Ave Billings, MT

406-245-7141

www.lithiatoyotabillings.com

www.bobsmithmotors.com

MerCedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Billings

volKsWagen Volkswagen Billings

3045 King Ave West Billings, MT

4040 King Ave W

www.mbbillings.com

www.vwbillings.com

877-375-9645

Billings, MT

406-655-7500