Spring Car Care 2018

2018

INSIDE 2

Little Things Can Make A Big Difference For Your Car

3

Flat Tires: They’re Gonna Happen

4

Simple Ways To Extend The Life Of Your Vehicle

6

My Car Just Broke Down! What Do I Do?

8

How To Cut The Cost Of Auto Insurance

9

Time For Your Tires To Have Their Post-Winter Checkup

9

Fix Fluid Leaks Without Draining Your Bank Account

Saturday, April 14, 2018 An Advertising Suplement To

2

THE GREENEVILLE SUN CAR CARE EDITION Saturday, April 14, 2018

www.greenevillesun.com

Protecting Our Vital Tools Of Travel: Our Vehicles

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f ever you succumb to an impulse to drive the full length of Greene County's roadways, be sure to allow yourself plenty of time.

Greene County has more than 1,200 miles of road within its borders, near the top of the list in Tennessee per-county mileage.

Though most Greene Countians may never need to travel every county road, almost travel at least some of them in the course of an average day and week. Few of us could pursue our livelihood without our cars, SUVs or trucks.

Without a doubt: of all the mechanical tools used in daily life, our vehicles are probably the most important. They carry us to our jobs, our homes, our schools, our medical visits, our churches.

It makes sense, then, to assure our vehicles are being protectively maintained so they can serve us as efficiently and as long as possible.

In this special annual supplemental publication know to help keep ourselves safely on wheels, and of The Greeneville Sun, we are pleased to keep those wheels turning for a long time. bring you, with the support of numerous fine We encourage you to read these informative advertisers, information we motorists need to stories and support the advertisers who make this

edition possible. We deeply appreciate them, and we appreciate you, our readers.

Safe travels!

Little Things Can Make A Big Difference For Your Car

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id you know that something as simple as paying attention to the tightness of your car’s gasoline tank cap can save you money? Are you aware that cruise control used in the right way and travel conditions can be a fuel-saver? And using it in the wrong conditions can be dangerous?

Drivers who want to drive more efficiently and safely can implement a variety of strategies to do just that. Below are five simple “driving hacks” that can pay off for you, your vehicle, and your wallet long-term. And they might help you avoid a highway tragedy or two.

1) Obey the speed limits and be aware of factors such as your vehicle’s “blind spots.”

Speed limits are determined with safety in mind, and drivers should always adhere to posted speed limits to protect themselves, their passengers and others on the road. The U.S. Department of Transportation notes that about 27 percent of motor vehicle crash deaths are speeding-related. But according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, obeying the speed limit is also cost-effective. The EPA notes that MPG begins to dip dramatically when vehicles travel above 55 miles per hour. While each vehicle is different, the EPA notes that increasing highway cruising speed from 55 miles per hour to 75 miles per hour can raise fuel consumption by as much as 20 percent.

Apart from fuel economy issues, it also enhances safety when drivers are patient with one another, don’t mistake the roadway for a racetrack, and avoid sudden and insufficiently pre-examined lane

shifts. Don’t forget that there are probably areas around your moving vehicle that you can’t readily see in your mirrors.

2) Do not idle your vehicle.

The Environmental Defense Fund notes that electronic engines do not need to warm up, even in winter when temperatures are especially cold.

Vehicles that are idling can produce as much pollution as vehicles that are in motion, and idling for as little as 10 seconds wastes more gas than restarting the engine. Drivers concerned about overtaxing their engines shortly after starting them can warm their engines by easing into their drives and avoiding excessive revving.

speeds.

Properly using cruise control when driving on highways can improve fuel economy. Be sure to use cruise control only in open-road, good weather conditions in which vehicles are not clustered around you and you won’t likely need to do repeated speed alterations. Build your speed to the proper level before activating cruise control. If driving on an interstate, the speed limit is generally between 55 and 70 miles per hour. This speed range is ideal for cruise control. Do not attempt to set your vehicle’s cruise control at a speed that is above the legal limit. It can get you into trouble in all sorts of ways.

4) Tighten the gas cap.

When gas caps are loose, fuel evaporates.

The Car Care Council notes that loose, missing or damaged gas caps contribute to the evaporation of roughly 147 million gallons of gas per year. That’s both wasteful and costly. When filling up at the gas station, turn the cap until your hear it click.

Driving efficiently can make roadways safer, reduce pollution and save drivers considerable amounts of money.

5) Exercise attentiveness and common sense every time you drive.

Not much need for explanation on this one.

3) Use cruise control the right way.

Remember those safety practices your driver’s ed Drivers concerned about fuel economy may be teacher and parents told you when you were learnaccustomed to turning on their vehicles’ cruise ing to drive? They still apply. control when driving long distances on the highAnd if you can see what we mean, teach yourself way. While that is an effective and fuel-efficient to notice when you aren't noticing. Did you take way to maintain steady speeds, turn cruise control time to notice the stop sign … or was it a yield off when traversing roads with steep hills. On such sign? Did the warning light on the traffic signal roads, fuel efficiency can be lost because the vecome on a moment ago, or several? Take notice! hicle engine is working harder to maintain steady

How Can We Fight Against Impaired/Distracted Driving?

S

ome of the most festive times of the year are associated with an increased risk of automotive accidents due to impaired driving. Any time alcohol, drugs, exhaustion, distractions, and driving are mixed, the results can be unsafe driving conditions that increase the risk of injury or death.

Impaired driving Twenty-eight people die each day in the United States in vehicular accidents that involve an alcohol-impaired driver, accounting for one death every 51 minutes, offers the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Statistics Canada points out that impaired driving remains one of the most frequent criminal offenses in Canada and is among the leading criminal causes of death. While alcohol-impaired driving has decreased over the past several decades, drug-impaired driving is on the rise.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says alcohol and certain drugs reduce functions

of the brain and impair thinking, reasoning and muscle coordination. These are all skills that are essential to the safe operation of motor vehicles. Some of the typical effects of impairment increase proportionally to the level of blood alcohol concentration.

Furthermore, interactions between alcohol and other substances in the body can increase the level of risk when driving.

Impairment laws vary by area. Blood alcohol concentration laws typically consider a blood alcohol content, or BAC, of .08 percent or above as criminal.

The NHTSA says that a BAC of .08 or higher contributes to poor muscle coordination, leading to slower reaction control, decreased balance and impaired vision and hearing. Memory may be diminished and self-control and reasoning are compromised at this point as well.

deadly consequences. The NHTSA says that at any moment during the day, approximately 660,000 drivers use cell phones or manipulate electronic devices while driving - a figure that has remained stable since 2010.

Preventing vehicular accidents, injuries and fatalities comes down to using common sense.

Distracted driving It is important to note that driving under the influence of illegal substances, alcohol and even prescription medications can lead to crashes. But a recent and increasingly pervasive driving problems is distracted driving. The Federal Communications Commission says the use of mobile devices behind the wheel can cause unintended and

· Pull over if you are feeling drowsy behind the wheel.

Opening the window or listening to loud music may not be enough to keep you awake.

· No one should text and drive.

Store phones out of reach or set "away" messages and quiet alerts while behind the wheel. If a phone must be used, pull over to a safe area to do so. · Know the side effects of medications you are taking and how they can impair driving.

If taking a newly prescribed medication, do not operate a vehicle until you understand how it makes you feel.

· Never mix alcohol or drugs with driving.

Opt for a ride-share service or taxi if you will be having a few drinks at a bar or restaurant. Even one or two drinks can impair drivers.

www.greenevillesun.com

Saturday, April 14, 2018

THE GREENEVILLE SUN CAR CARE EDITION

3

Road Trip Vacation?

Here’s How To Make It Work!

Death, Taxes, and Flat Tires: They’re Gonna Happen

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he British call them “punctures,” but to us Americans they are plain old flat tires.

There are fewer flats these days than in past decades, given advances in the manufacture, design and durability of 21st century tires. Some tires today can roll on for miles even after being punctured, and modern tires are made to be less prone to blowouts and tire wear. Some are basically flat-proof.

When flats do happen, though, nothing can delay road trips more jarringly.

Also the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that flat tires and blowouts remain a leading cause of highway traffic accidents.

Even though flats cannot always be prevented, there are ways to make tires less vulnerable and make vehicles safer along the way.

Flat tire avoidance Routine inspection and tire maintenance are essential to tire performance. In addition, paying attention to road hazards and avoiding them when possible will almost always prolong the life of tires.

Here are some things to pay attention to in keeping your tires in good road condition: Tire pressure: Tires should be maintained at the correct air pressure indicated on the sidewall or as advised by the manufacturer. Tires with too much air can be damaged by bumpy roads and potholes. Tires that are not inflated enough may increase friction on the roadway, resulting in a blowout.

Check tire pressure routinely, and do so when the tires have rested for three hours. Many vehicles now monitor tire pressure automatically and alert drivers through a signal on the dashboard.

Tire wear: Professionals say that inspecting tires for uneven wear should be a routine part of maintenance. If tires show uneven wear, they may be more susceptible to flats or blowouts.

Tire rotations can help alleviate uneven wear. The NHTSA recommends tires be rotated every 5,000 miles.

Tire treads: Look for worn tire treads. Check for wear bar indicator marks located between the tread pattern of the tires. If the wear bar is level with the treads, it's time for new tires. Otherwise, place a quarter between the grooves of the tire. If the tread doesn't extend beyond the top of Washington's head, it's a good idea to replace the tires.

Beware of construction sites: Drivers should try to avoid areas under construction. Rocks, nails, metal shards, glass, and divots in the roads can cause punctures and eventually flats.

Flat tire repair When flats occur, having the right tools and understanding the procedure for fixing the flat is key.

Drivers will need an inflated spare tire, a jack, a lug wrench, bracing material (to keep the vehicle from rolling, such as a brick or piece of wood), and the vehicle's owner's manual. It is essential, for safety, to fix the flat in an area away from traffic and on a flat surface.

Another tool that can help solve the crisis is an air pump powered by the car battery. If a tire is leaking air

very slowly, pumping it up again can buy drivers a few more miles to get to a service station or garage where a permanent fix can be obtained.

Such pumps are available at any auto supply or major department store.

You can also purchase aerosol flat-fixers that pump air and a leak-blocking sealant into a tire. These, however, will work only with smaller punctures or leaks and do not provide a true fix for the tire.

Such spray-can tire sealants should be only a temporary stop-gap, and when the tire is taken in for repair or replacement, the tire technician should be told that a spray-in flat sealant has been used.

If you plan to deal with your flat by raising the car and replacing the tire with a spare, here are the steps to follow: Use the owner's manual to find the correct position to place the jack to lift the car. It is best to use the jack that comes with the car in that it will be designed for use on the kind or vehicle you have.

Remove hubcaps or center covers to access the lug nuts. With the lug wrench, loosen lug nuts in a counterclockwise direction.

Take off the tire and put on the spare.

Replace and tighten the lug nuts.

Replace hubcaps or covers. Do this process carefully and avoid jarring the vehicle so that jack won't be accidentally disbalanced.

Slowly lower the vehicle, check the spare tire visually, and drive cautiously to ensure the spare is in working order.

Purchase a new tire or have a hole plugged or repaired at a tire center.

Dealing with flats used to be (and for some still is) one of those skills that parents took time to teach their children as they neared driving age. In these days of high-tech tires, less prone to go flat, that lesson is sometimes neglected.

If you are a new driver, or if you're unsure of some of the steps in safely changing a flat, grab a handy knowledgeable individual and take a little time to get a hands-on tire-changing lesson.

That experience will serve you well some evening when you hear and feel that dreaded thump and you're faced with getting out the spare and getting yourself back on the road all on your own.

Speaking of the spare, also take time to learn exactly where it is in or on your vehicle, how to get to it, and how to reach the tire-changing tools that might be stowed beneath it.

Keep a good working emergency light in case the problem happens at night.

Changing a tire at night is no fun in any circumstances, but basically impossible without light.

What's the best defense against flat tires? Having quality tires with a good tread on your vehicle to begin with. Double D Tire in Greeneville can help you make sure your vehicle is wearing the right kind of “shoes.”

They have strong customer loyalty, fast and efficient service, and a reliable good reputation. At Double D you'll find answers to your tire questions are provided with friendly hometown courtesy.

D

riving vacations can be budgetfriendly ways to get away from home for a few days.

Know your driving limits and share driving duties with someone else who can take over if or when fatigue sets in.

· Pack stuff for kids to do.

Prevent or delay the "are we there yets" with movies, puzzles, Such excursions can be customized books, and music for children. Pack according to families' particular headphones so their devices will not schedules and interests. To make disturb others. the most of driving vacations, · Schedule a tuneup travelers can employ these tips. beforehand. · Map the destination.

Before departing, ensure your Figure out the duration of the vehicle is in good working order trip ahead of time, jotting down to reduce the likelihood of a approximate times of travel. This breakdown. Make sure you have a will help you break up the ride so spare tire and tire-changing tools, you can include stops for food, just in case. bathroom breaks and fill-ups. · Don't pack too much. · Plan food and Leave some room in the vehicle for accommodations. souvenirs picked up along the way.

Some people like to plan road trips Take advantage of hotel laundry as they go. Those who prefer to have facilities to keep clothes fresh and greater control can decide where to avoid having to pack too many to stop in advance, researching outfits. hotels, attractions and dining · Adjust as you go. establishments.

Even the best plans need to be · Be firm with departure times. modified on occasion. Keep an open Make a plan to leave at a mind and be flexible so you can particular hour and stick to it. enjoy any unexpected wonders that This will help to keep the trip on may pop up. Flexibility also can help schedule. you adapt to traffic or detours. · Share the driving.

Tire Wear: How To Read It

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ires should wear evenly across the tread. If you’re noticing excessive wear on the rear inside tires, you may have too much junk in the trunk or need an alignment adjustment.

Uneven tire wear can also result in less MPGs and more pain at the gas pump.

Poor alignment can shorten a tire’s life by thousands of miles and compromise very crucial steering and suspension parts. That’s a big hit to the wallet.

If you don’t want to replace tires as often and enjoy the benefits of better fuel economy, have your alignment checked, at the very least, with every other oil change or at the first sign of uneven or premature tire wear.

639-1402 9:00-5:00 Mon.-Fri.; 9:00-1:00 Sat. 403 Bernard Avenue, Greeneville, TN

A Greene County Family Business Since 1981 ALL MAJOR BRANDS

Brakes • Alignment • Suspension Repair

Thank you for voting for us!

2018

4

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THE GREENEVILLE SUN CAR CARE EDITION Saturday, April 14, 2018

For New Drivers, Playing It Safe Means Playing It Smart

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oung adults gain independence through a series of milestones throughout their youth. But few such milestones are more anxiously anticipated than the day when teenagers earn their drivers' licenses.

For teenagers, drivers' licenses mean the difference between being at the mercy of adults for transportation and being able to set off on their own.

Even though a license to drive indicates a teen has passed the written and road tests necessary to drive without adults present, newly minted licensed drivers may still not be ready to drive without supervision.

In fact, statistics indicate that teenagers may benefit from a little extra instruction and guidance before they're given the keys to the family car.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among American teens.

According to State Farm, young Canadians represent only 13 percent of the licensed driving population, but account for approximately 20 percent of the motor vehicle-related deaths and injuries across the country. The highest per-driver and per-distance fatality rates are found among drivers between the ages of 16 and 19.

One in five 16-year-old drivers has an accident in their first year of driving.

Teenagers who want to drive and stay safe on the road can employ these safety tips. · Keep an open attitude.

Consider increasing road time under the instruction of an adult and learn from their guidance. Ask for help if there is a driving skill you haven't mastered, such as merging onto a busy

highway or parallel parking. · Limit other teen passengers.

The CDC says the presence of teen passengers increases unsupervised teen drivers' crash risk.

Until you are secure behind the wheel, avoid the temptation to give a bunch of friends a ride. · Stick to daylight driving.

Geico says the risk of a fatal crash is three times greater at night for every mile driven. Reduced visibility and reaction time can contribute to crashes. Gain ample experience driving during daytime hours and make sure you are completely comfortable behind the wheel before setting out at night. · Practice in all conditions.

Safe driving involves making smart decisions even when driving conditions are poor. With an adult in the passenger seat, practice driving in

inclement weather, only venturing out in such conditions on your own when you feel ready to do so. · Turn your phone off.

Smartphones put all motorists at risk of accident. In the time it takes drivers to look at incoming texts, they may have driven several hundred feet without their eyes on the road. Make it a policy to turn smartphones off while driving. · Slow down.

Speed is a common factor in automotive crashes involving teens. Follow posted speed limits at all times. · Drive unimpaired.

Do not take drugs or consume alcohol or other substances that impair your ability to drive.

Teens can stay safe behind the wheel by playing it smart.

Simple ways to extend the life of your vehicle

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utomobiles are significant investments. The decision to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a new vehicle is not one consumers should take lightly.

Once drivers purchase their new vehicles, they can protect their investments and get greater returns on those investments by prioritizing maintenance and taking simple yet effective steps to extend the lives of their cars and trucks.

1. Drive defensively.

Aggressive driving is dangerous and can have adverse effects on a vehicle. When driving, always obey posted speed limits and avoid accelerating and decelerating quickly. Such a style of driving can strain vehicle engines and drive trains while negatively affecting fuel efficiency and wearing down brakes, states the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence.

2. Maintain a clean vehicle.

Car washes do more than just clean a vehicle.

Routine washing and waxing can remove dirt that, if left on a vehicle, can gradually scratch paint and contribute to chips and rust. Over time, rust can affect vehicle performance and may even compromise the safety of drivers and their passengers if bad enough frame rust affects structural integrity. Routine washing also can remove road salt from vehicles. Salt can build up during winter when roads are routinely treated during and after snowstorms. Road salt can be extremely corrosive and, if left unremoved from a vehicle, can contribute to rust that ultimately can cause extensive damage to a vehicle.

3. Routinely check tire pressure.

Many of today’s new vehicles alert drivers when tire pressure is low. Drivers should not ignore such warnings, as low tire pressure can affect engine performance by forcing it to work harder than should be necessary. Engines that are forced to work harder than they need to likely won’t last as long as those that run efficiently. Low tire pressure also negatively affects fuel efficiency, potentially costing drivers substantial amounts of money over time. Drivers of older vehicles without tire pressure alerts should routinely check tire pressure and keep tires adequately inflated.

Vehicles that are slow to accelerate from resting

positions may not have enough air in their tires.

4. Adhere to maintenance guidelines.

Drivers may have heard that today’s vehicles were built to go longer periods of time between oil changes and tuneups than the vehicles of yesteryear. But drivers should still adhere to manufacturer-recommended maintenance guidelines. Upon buying new vehicles, drivers should read their owners’ manuals to determine

recommended maintenance intervals, and stick to those intervals for as long as they have their vehicles.

Cognizant of the sizable investments they’re making when buying new vehicles, many drivers want to get as many miles out of their vehicles as possible. Simple maintenance and safe driving habits can go a long way toward keeping vehicles on the road for years to come.

Wax At Least Twice Yearly To Protect Your Vehicle

O

ne way to protect vehicles against environmental damage is waxing. Bird droppings, rain, salt, and sun can take their toll on a vehicle, and waxing can help combat these often inevitable environmental factors.

Experts say that, even though modern paint jobs have improved considerably in recent years, wax formulations have improved as well. Both can work wonders with regard to defending against color erosion, scratches and dullness.

Furthermore, waxing increases resale value at trade-in time and can make it easier to clean vehicles.

Consumer advocates recommend that vehicles be waxed not less than twice a year.

www.greenevillesun.com

Saturday, April 14, 2018

THE GREENEVILLE SUN CAR CARE EDITION

5

AT GATEWAY

$ Synthetic Blend Oil Change

Fluid Top-Off

Tire Rotation & Pressure Check

Battery Test

Brake Inspection

Filter Check

Vehicle Check-Up

Belts & Hoses Check

39

95

OR LESS* Offer Expires 6-30-18

*Up to five quarts of Motorcraft® Synthetic Blend oil and Motorcraft or Omnicraft™ oil filter. Taxes, diesel vehicles and disposal fees extra. Hybrid battery test excluded. Offer valid 4/01/18 to 6/30/18. Quick Lane® and Motorcraft are registered trademarks of Ford Motor Company. Omnicraft is a trademark of Ford Motor Company. See Quick Lane® Service Advisor for exclusions and details. Offer valid with coupon. Expires 06/30/2018

$

99

*Per-axle price for pads or shoes on most vehicles. Exclusions apply.

Taxes extra. Quick Lane® and Motorcraft® are registered trademarks of Ford Motor Company. Omnicraft™ is a trademark of Ford Motor Company.

See Quick Lane® Service Advisor for details. Offer valid with coupon.

Expires 06/30/2018

95

Motocraft® or Omnicraft™ Brake Pads Installed.

OR LESS*

Check with your Quick Lane® Service Advisor to see if Motorcraft or Omnicraft brake pads are available for your vehicle.

BUY FOUR

ON THESE NAME BRANDS:

select tires, get a

$

130

REBATE BY MAIL

When you use the Quick Lane Credit Card.

*Quick Lane®-installed retail purchases only. Limit one redemption per customer. $70 tire rebate includes Michelin.® $70 tire rebate and $60 credit card rebate by prepaid debit card or apply to an active Owner Advantage Rewards® account. Subject to credit approval. Complete purchase must be made on the Quick Lane Credit Card for $130 maximum rebate. Offer valid 4/01/18 to 6/30/18. Submit rebate by 7/31/18 by mail-in rebate form or online at quicklane.com. Cannot be combined with any other tire manufacturer-sponsored or Quick Lane Credit Card rebate/offer. Quick Lane® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company. See Quick Lane® Service Advisor for vehicle applications, rebate and account details. Offer valid with coupon. Expires 06/30/2018

HAVE YOUR

BRAKES

HAVE YOUR

INSPECTED

FREE

TESTED*

*

Performed by an expert technician.

*Inspect brake friction material, caliper operation, rotors, drums, hoses and connections. Inspect parking brake for damage and proper operation.

Quick Lane® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company. See Quick Lane® Service Advisor for details. Offer valid with coupon.

Expires 06/30/2018

BATTERY

We’ll beat any price on the 13 major tire brands we sell. GUARANTEED! *Valid on Quick Lane®-installed retail purchases only. Requires presentation of competitor's current price ad/offer on exact tire sold by Quick Lane within 30 days after purchase. Offer not available in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Quick Lane is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company. See Quick Lane® Service Advisor for details. Expires 12/31/2018

FREE Be sure you have the starting power you need.

*Visually inspect and test battery using tester.

Hybrid battery test excluded. Quick Lane® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company.

See Quick Lane® Service Advisor for details.

Offer valid with coupon. Expires 06/30/2018

1055 W. Andrew Johnson Hwy. GREENEVILLE - NEXT TO AMC TOWNE CROSSING MOVIE THEATRE

(423) 639-5151

6

www.greenevillesun.com

THE GREENEVILLE SUN CAR CARE EDITION Saturday, April 14, 2018

My Car Just Broke Down!

What Do I Do Now?

K

nowing what to do when a car breaks down can make such unfortunate situations much less stressful for drivers. Smartphones and wifi networks may make it less stressful to cope with broken down vehicles.

However, wifi networks are not always accessible in remote locations, so drivers would be wise to revisit these tips for handling broken down vehicles in advance of their next road trip: · Turn on hazard lights.

Hazard lights inform other drivers that something is wrong with your vehicle, and the sight of hazard lights typically compels fellow motorists to give drivers a wide berth and facilitate their moving off of the roadway. · Attempt to get off the highway.

After turning on their hazard lights, drivers who know or suspect something is wrong with their vehicles should try to get off the highway. Move into the righthand lane as soon as possible, ultimately trying to get onto the shoulder. Avoid the left-hand shoulder if possible, as the left lane is a passing lane and motorists likely won't be expecting vehicles in this area of the highway. · Turn the steering wheel away from the road.

Broken down vehicles are unpredictable, and drivers may not have the luxury of pulling over onto flat road surfaces. Turning the steering wheel away from the road prevents it from rolling into traffic if drivers are forced to pull over on an incline. · Be especially careful before exiting the vehicle.

Exiting a broken down vehicle can be very dangerous, especially when drivers are forced to pull over on busy highways. Drivers who have pulled over into the right shoulder should wait to exit the car until there is ample time for them to get out and safely make it to the shoulder. If necessary, crawl across the front seat and exit using the passenger-side door. All passengers should exit the vehicle on the passenger-side if the car has been pulled onto the right shoulder. · Call for help.

Only after they have safely gotten their vehicles off the highway should drivers call for help. Passengers

Lynn

Left to right; Lynn Hope, Keith Hope, Donald Moore, Ronez Wilson, Dawn Carmona may want to avoid calling until the car is off the road as well, as it can make for faster relief if callers wait until they know their exact location to call for help. · Set up flares or triangles behind the vehicle.

If it's safe to do so, set up flares or triangles behind the vehicle. If the flares or triangles are buried in the trunk, drivers can ask a passenger to serve as lookout and warn them if they need to get away from the vehicle. · Pop the hood.

An opened hood is another indicator that a vehicle is broken down and can be especially valuable to drivers who do not have flares or triangles. · Wait for help.

Do not attempt to fix the vehicle on the side of the highway. Doing so leaves drivers vulnerable to oncoming motorists.

If you're broken down, odds are good you'll need a tow truck or roll-back to move your vehicle off the scene. Don't panic, Greene County drivers … there's Hope!

Lynn Hope Towing LLC, headquartered at 207 Seaton Avenue, was started by owner/ operator Lynn Hope in 2001. It remains a family-owned and family-operated business.

Because of the company's fast, dependable and professional 24-hour service, the business grew from two trucks to its current seven-truck operation, offering light- to heavy-duty towing and recovery services and more.

If your situation is maybe the result of an accident and your vehicle is left stuck in a difficult spot, Hope has the capability of dealing with it.

Hope says, “Accidents happen, and the staff and equipment at Lynn Hope Towing LLC are ready to get you back on the road.

Whether it’s an automobile stuck in a ditch or an overturned semi on the interstate, our recovery specialists respond quickly — day or night — to recover your vehicle.

We also handle cargo load shifts at our location, or we can come to you.”

“We Doze But Never Close”

HOPE Owner/Operator Since 2001.

24-Hour Towing & Towing Recovery Lynn Hope Towing is family owned and operated. We offer light to heavy-duty towing and recovery services and more.

• Fast • Dependable • Professional Big or Small, We Can Tow Them All!!

423-639-6671

Whatever your towing and recovery needs, give us a call... we’re ready to handle it, DAY or NIGHT!

www.greenevillesun.com

Saturday, April 14, 2018

THE GREENEVILLE SUN CAR CARE EDITION

BACHMAN BERNARD

CHEVROLET • BUICK • GMC • CADILLAC

www.BachmanBernardChevy.com

Full New & Used Sales, Leasing, Service, Parts & Body Shop

e c i v r e S g n Spri

3365 E. A.J. HWY. (Between Wal-Mart & Pals)

423-639-4141

SPECIALS COOLANT DRAIN & REFILL

FOUR WHEEL ALIGNMENT

$

54

All prices through 4/30/18

TIRE ROTATION INCLUDING BRAKE INSPECTION

up to 1 Gallon

95* $ plus tax

BACHMAN BERNARD

39

95*

$ 95*

1

plus tax

BACHMAN BERNARD

plus tax with any other paid service

BACHMAN BERNARD

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

OIL CHANGE

TRANSMISSION FLUID CHANGE

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

& TIRE ROTATION & 27 POINT INSPECTION

CLEAN FUEL INJECTERS & THROTTLE BODY

$ 00*off $17995* $

5

plus tax

Passenger Cars & Light Duty Trucks Only

BACHMAN BERNARD

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*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

139

95* plus tax

BACHMAN BERNARD

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

REBATES ON SET OF 4 TIRES Rebates Double if Paying with a GM Credit Card!

$ 00*off $ 00*off $ 00*off $10000*off

40

UNIROYAL TIRES

BACHMAN BERNARD

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

$

50

Dunlop BF Goodrich General

BACHMAN BERNARD

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

BRAKES

119

95

plus tax

PER AXLE*

AC DELCO DURASTOP BRAKE PADS INSTALLED RESURFACING OR REPLACING ROTORS EXTRA COST *EXCLUDES CORVETTE AND OTHER SELECT VEHICLES

BACHMAN BERNARD

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

70

Firestone Michelin

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Bridgestone Continental Goodyear Hankook Pirelli

BACHMAN BERNARD

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

PRICE MATCH ON TIRES 30 Day Price Match. If you buy tires here and see the same tires for less within 30 days, bring in the ad or written quote and we will give you the difference. We will also Price Match any other local tire quote you have. Just bring the ad in and we will match it. The Tire Price Match Guarantee does not include: labor for mounting and balancing, wheel weights, or any other charges. We will do what it takes to earn your business!

BACHMAN BERNARD

*Expires 4/30/18 One Coupon Per Customer

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THE GREENEVILLE SUN CAR CARE EDITION Saturday, April 14, 2018

How To Cut The Cost Of Auto Insurance

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he cost of auto insurance is contingent on a host of variables. Such factors include the type of vehicle being insured and the driving record of the policy holder.

While drivers may feel they have little leeway regarding the cost of their auto insurance, there are several steps motorists of all ages can take to lower their auto insurance premiums.

• Address your credit score.

Policy holders’ credit histories is one of the factors insurance companies use

when determining the cost of individuals’ insurance policies. In a recent-year analysis of data from Consumer Reports, the Insurance Information Institute found that drivers in Florida who had excellent credit scores received insurance quotes that were less than half that of drivers whose scores

639-7447

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Rusty Ottinger Owner

Your Locally Owned Tire Store providing quality workmanship and the same lower labor costs for 22 years!

were considered poor. That’s because insurance companies see drivers with poor credit scores as more likely to be in an accident than those with excellent scores. Before shopping for new policies, drivers should take steps to improve their credit scores by paying off their consumer debts and having any discrepancies on their credit reports corrected.

• Continue your education as a motorist.

The III notes that non-driving factors, such as age, are among the variables insurance companies consider when determining the cost of their automotive policies. While older drivers can’t reverse the aging process and younger drivers can’t add years to their driving histories overnight, there are ways these drivers can lessen the impact their ages have on the cost of their auto insurance premiums. Advanced defensive driving courses can refresh older drivers’ memories with regards to safe driving techniques while also teaching them the latest techniques to stay safe behind the wheel. Younger drivers who take such courses can be taught how to drive in emergency situations in controlled environments.

Consumer Reports notes that a 2012 report jointly sponsored by the U.S. government, AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and Manitoba Public Insurance found that there is no evidence that traditional driver’s education classes reduce crashes, highlighting the importance of advanced courses that can prepare older and younger drivers alike for what awaits them on

the open road. Taking such classes can save drivers as much as 10 percent on their auto insurance premiums, and those discounts may even last several years.

• Adjust your existing policy.

Mileage is another factor insurance companies use when pricing their automotive policies. While driving habits change, few drivers think to contact their insurance companies when their habits change in ways that can save them money. If your daily commute is shorter than it was when you initially opened your policy or if you now take public transportation to save money on gas, contact your insurance agent and give a more up-to-date assessment of your driving habits. Doing so might save you a considerable amount of money each year.

• Combine your policies.

Perhaps the simplest way to save on auto insurance is to combine your auto and home insurance policies. Covering your vehicles and your home via the same provider may save you as much as 15 percent on each policy.

Auto insurance is a considerable expense, but drivers can take numerous steps to reduce the costs of their policies.

State Farm agent Lisa Crum will be happy to assist you with your automotive insurance needs and can help you find discounts you are entitled to. Give her a call at 423-639-5150 or visit www.lisacrumagency.com.

Ride with the #1 car insurer in TENNESSEE.

Dave Hughes Service Manager

Lisa Crum, Agent 2195 E. Andrew Johnson Highway Greeneville, TN 37745

639-5150

www.lisacrumagency.com

With competitive rates and personal service, it’s no wonder more drivers trust State Farm®.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7.

• Axles • Brakes • Clutches • Exhaust Systems • 2 & 4 Wheel Alignment • Turn Drums & Rotors • Hydraulic Hoses & Fittings • Custom Made Brake Hoses • AC/Heater • Engine Diagnostics • Farm Tractor Tires

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Experience Counts!

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QUICK LUBE of GREENEVILLE Greeneville’s First Quick Lube Service Facility Home Owned & Operated Since 1987 Put Our Experience to Work for You.

Our staff has over 85 years combined experience!

• Oil Change and Lube • Filters • Transmission Service • Check Fluid Levels • Free 14 pt. Inspection • Check Tires, Exhaust • Clean Windshield

We Also Service Diesel Engines We stock most major brands of oil & also factory & house lters

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QUICK LUBE of GREENEVILLE 635 E. Andrew Johnson Hwy., Greeneville

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Saturday, April 14, 2018

THE GREENEVILLE SUN CAR CARE EDITION

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Wise Precautions Can Deter Thefts From Cars

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Time For Your Tires To Have Their Post-Winter Checkup!

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alt, grime and pot holes can take a toll on tires over the course of a typical winter. Drivers will not get far this spring and summer without tires in good repair, which is why tire maintenance should be part of any seasonal repair checklist.

Inflation levels Now is the time to use a tire pressure gauge to see if tires are at the ideal inflation levels. Many tires indicate the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) on their sidewalls.

Cold temperatures may cause tires to deflate a little. Esurance states that winter weather can cause tire pressure reduction at about one PSI for every 10 degrees the temperature drops. Driving on improperly infl ated tires can be dangerous, potentially affecting handling and braking distances.

Check tires when they are cold for the most accurate reading. Properly infl ated tires also will improve fuel economy, so drivers may even save a little money by infl ating their tires.

Tire rotation/realignment Examine the tires for tread wear.

Any uneven or abnormal tread wear could indicate that the tires need to

be rotated and the wheels realigned at the very least. Take the vehicle to a qualifi ed mechanic to get their opinion on how to remedy the situation.

Mechanics may recommend rotating tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or about every six months for the average driver.

Wheel realignment may be necessary after a season of driving over potholes and other irregularities in the road. Misaligned wheels can cause handling problems, like the car “pulling” to one side.

Tire replacement Drivers may discover extreme tread wear, bulges or even cracks in the sidewall during a tire inspection.

These signs indicate that it’s time to replace the tires. Failing to replace old, worn down tires can increase the risk of automobile accidents.

Thorough cleaning Once tires are inspected and possibly serviced or replaced, treat the car or truck to a washing and thorough detailing. This will help tires shine and get the vehicle road-ready for spring trips.

Call Rusty’s Tire and Alignment for all your tire needs!

They have been serving this area for nearly 20 years, call 639-7447.

he National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that a vehicle is stolen every 44 seconds in the United States.

And it’s not just the expensive models that are targets of thieves.

Guarding against car theft comes down to avoiding common pitfalls, using common sense and making vehicles less attractive to thieves.

• Lock doors. This may seem like a no-brainer, but giving thieves easy access to vehicles increases the risk of theft. Always lock the vehicle, even if you’re only running into the house or a store for a few minutes.

• Keep valuables hidden. Don’t leave purchases, cell phones, money (even loose change), expensive sunglasses, or electronics within sight in the vehicle.

• Exercise caution with spare keys.

Do not hide a spare key under the vehicle or in an obvious spot. Car thieves are wise to these tactics.

Also, if you’ve lent a spare key to someone, ask for it back promptly.

• Invest in a car alarm. Car alarms can deter thieves because they draw attention to the vehicle. Car alarms that also prevent the vehicle from being started or driven away (kill switch) can be helpful.

• Use various locks. Manufacturers make steering wheel locks and brake locks that render cars undrivable unless they are removed.

• Be visible when parking. Choose highly visible parking spots when out and about. These include spaces that are close to building entrances, near security cameras and in well-lit areas. Cars that are more visible are

less likely to be targeted by thieves.

• Don’t leave it running. According to the safety resource Safewise, nearly half of all auto thefts occur as a result of not performing reasonable precautions — such as failure to turn off the vehicle after exiting.

More than one-third of all thefts occur near the car owner’s residence.

Resist the urge to “warm up” the vehicle by leaving it running with the keys in the ignition.

• Get VIN etching. Etching the VIN on windows makes it more expensive for car thieves to resell a vehicle or its parts without having to make replacements.

• Buy a tracking system. In the event a car is stolen, GPS tracking devices can help cops recover the vehicle more rapidly.

Car theft can be a serious concern, but exercising caution can prevent vehicles from being targeted.

Ask Key Questions When Car-Shopping

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hen shopping for a preowned car, ask pointed questions about its condition and features.

Relatively new cars with high mileage may raise red flags, so ask how many owners such vehicles had and if maintenance records are available.

Consumer Reports magazine Be sure to ask if a vehicle you’re says a high-mileage car used on considering has been in an accident a long highway commute is better than if the car does many short trips or if there are any recalls on the make and model. or stop-and-go driving.

Fix Fluid Leaks Without Draining Your Bank Account

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rivers expect to experience a few bumps in the road as their vehicles age. While certain issues, such as worn shocks or engine troubles, are best left to the professionals, drivers can address many other issues that commonly affect aging vehicles on their own.

Fluid leaks are one of the more routine problems that plague older vehicles. While leaks are not necessarily a sign of doom and gloom, they tend to distress vehicle owners and can affect drivability. In addition, automotive fluids that seep out of vehicles can prove harmful to the environment.

Leaks may not be a concern for drivers of new vehicles, but studies show that drivers are keeping their vehicles for longer than ever before, suggesting that leaks are becoming a greater issue for more and more motorists. A 2016 study from the Institute for Highway Safety found that the average age of vehicles on the road in the United States is nearly 12 years. By 2021, the IHS expects a 30 percent increase in vehicles that are 16 years or older.

So how can drivers address leaky vehicles before they contribute to potentially larger, more costly problems? Fortunately, leaks can be a relatively simple fix, which should assuage any fears drivers may have as the numbers on their odometers continue to rise.

Fixing leaks Once drivers have identified which fluid is leaking, they can then take steps to fix the leak. Unlike other problems that plague older vehicles, leaks can typically be fixed quickly and affordably.

Stop leak solutions are designed to provide faster, less expensive alternatives for drivers who may be facing costly mechanical repairs. These products can be especially valuable to drivers of older vehicles. Stop leak products also can be valuable in the face of emergencies, giving drivers time to Identifying leaks get their vehicles to their mechanics.

Identifying leaks is the first step toward fixing If your vehicle develops oil leak, you could easily them. Often the simplest way to identify which fluid is leaking is to determine its color. Red fluid suggests run your car low on oil and not realize it's happena leak in the power steering system or transmission, ing until that fearsome red light flashes on.

In Greeneville, one established business while black fluid typically indicates old oil or transthat can help you keep track of your vehimission fluid that has gone bad. If the leaky fluid is cle's oil levels and the levels of all other key green or yellow, then it's likely engine coolant.

fluids is Quick Lube, located at 635 E Andrew Johnson Highway. Their experienced staff will check levels throughout your vehicle with expert eyes and bring them up to where they should be.

They can also help you ascertain where and why fluid leaks are occurring.

If your car needs a lubrication job, Quick Lube can do that too. That too is especially important in older-model vehicles.

Open six days a week starting at 8 a.m., Quick Lube's convenient hours and location are designed for customer convenience.

As more and more drivers look to extend the life of their vehicles, leaks figure to factor more heavily in the concerns of motorists. Addressing such leaks can be easy, quick and affordable.

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