Drive & Ride - October 2020

October 2020 A Special Supplement to

Manistee News Advocate

Tech Tips

Technology that can make driving safer

Keep the Lights On Signs your headlights may need to be replaced

Sanitizing Vehicle During Pandemic is Essential How to effectively and safely sanitize a car

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October 2020 • Manistee News Advocate

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How to effectively and safely sanitize a car

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Tech that makes it easier to take to the road

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What maintenance schedule does my car need?

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Gas in a car won’t stay fresh forever

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Technology that can make driving safer

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5 convenient tech features you want in your vehicle

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Car trouble? Check the fuse box

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Signs headlights may need to be replaced

Manistee News Advocate • October 2020

How to effectively and safely sanitize a car

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he COVID-19 pandemic changed the way people live. One readily felt effect was spending more time at home.

Vehicles sat idle in driveways and even some automotive insurance providers reduced rates because people were driving much less.

Even with stay-at-home measures in place, people still need to leave their homes to stock up on essentials, such as food or medicine. In other cases, people may have been essential workers who drive for a living, including delivery drivers or health care personnel who were incapable of working from home.

surfaces, including those inside vehicles.

People want to protect themselves and now are more aware of the importance of frequently cleaning and sanitizing their cars. Keeping a vehicle safe to drive without affecting its upholstery or electronic components is paramount.

The Centers for Disease Control

Wash hands. First and foremost, it is crucial to wash your hands before and after using the car.

This can reduce the likelihood of growing ill because of transferred viruses or bacteria.

and Prevention makes a distinction between cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces. It does not kill germs, but can lower their numbers. Disinfecting refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. The following are some ways to deeply clean and sanitize a car.

Use rubbing alcohol. Solutions that contain 70 percent alcohol are effective against many viruses and bacteria, including coronaviruses, says the CDC. Furthermore, Jeff Stout, Executive Director of Global Innovation at Yanfeng Automotive Interiors, says that, for the most part, nearly every interior surface of a vehicle can be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol. Plastic to painted chrome to imitation leather have been tested to ensure they don’t degrade when exposed to pure isopropyl alcohol.

Avoid bleach or hydrogen peroxide. While bleach and peroxide are very effective cleaners and sanitizers, they are likely to damage a car’s upholstery, according to Consumer Reports.

Any time a person goes out in public, he or she runs the risk of contracting viruses. Bacteria and germs may reside on various

In Michigan, drivers have a one in 60 chance of collision with an animal

Use soap and water: Experts say that vigorous washing with a soap-and-water solution can be effective against many contaminants because it breaks down the protective envelope that surrounds coronaviruses and other germs to disarm them.

Friction also can help to break down germ cells during cleaning.

“You want to do the best with what you have, so even soap and water can chip away at the risk,” says Stephen Thomas, M.D., Chief of Infectious Diseases and Director of Global Health at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY. Address frequently touched surfaces. Pay attention to the steering wheel, door handles, buttons, touchscreen displays, shift lever, and more when sanitizing. Each of these items can harbor germs.

Deep-cleaning a vehicle has become a necessity since COVID19 emerged. Frequently cleaning and sanitizing can help make vehicles safer to operate.

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October 2020 • Manistee News Advocate

Tech that makes it easier to take to the road

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adgets and cars have seemingly always had a symbiotic relationship.

As cars have evolved, so, too, have the gadgets that make driving more enjoyable.

Technology that can make driving safer

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echnology plays such a significant role in modern life that it can sometimes prove hard to ignore, even when drivers are behind the wheel. In fact, data from the National Security Council indicates that more than 700 people are injured in distracted driving crashes every day, and many of those crashes involve drivers who were distracted by their devices.

them valuable when driving on crowded city streets as well as on highways where cars may not be so close but are driving at high speeds. AEB systems may even detect pedestrians. Some vehicles can even be equipped with rear automatic emergency braking systems, or Rear AEB, which automatically apply the brakes if sensors detect objects behind the vehicle while it’s in reverse.

While technology can distract drivers, indirectly making the roads more dangerous as a result, the following technological advancements also can make the roads considerably safer.

LED headlights: LED headlights may not inspire the awe of backup cameras or AEB systems, but they can be just as effective at making driving safer. LED headlights tend to produce greater light output than traditional headlamps, making it easier for drivers to see at night. LED headlights also last much longer than halogen bulbs, meaning they won’t fade as quickly, keeping more light on the road for longer periods of time.

Backup camera: Seasoned drivers know that danger can arise at any time while driving, including when backing out of one’s own driveway or even a parking spot.

Backup camera technology feeds video directly to drivers’ dashboards, allowing them to get a clear view of what is directly behind their vehicles. This reduces the risk of hitting anyone, including small children playing in the driveway and pedestrians on the sidewalk, when driving in reverse.

Automatic emergency braking: These systems, sometimes referred to as “AEB” on dealership window stickers, alert drivers to imminent danger. AEB systems can independently brake when drivers are not responding to danger, preventing potentially deadly collisions. Systems may detect cars both near and far, making

Autonomous cruise control: Autonomous cruise control, or ACC, systems operate in similar fashion to traditional cruise control with a key distinction. When engaged, ACC systems adjust vehicle speeds so cars and trucks maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead of them.

Technology has forever changed the way people drive. Modern vehicles are safer than ever before thanks to technological advancements that help drivers avoid accidents in myriad ways.

The connection between cars and gadgets has become even stronger in recent decades, a time marked by rapid technological advancements and one in which car buyers increasingly look for tech-friendly cars and trucks. Buyers in the market for new automobiles may be surprised by some of these innovations that have changed driving.

Remote start: No one enjoys enduring frigid winter mornings or suffocating summer heat as they sit in their cars waiting for their engines to warm up or for their windshields to defrost. Innovation has made such unpleasantries a thing of the past thanks to remote start technology, which allows drivers to use their smartphones to start their vehicles from inside their homes.

Bluetooth connectivity: Bluetooth connectivity has been around for years, and this advancement has made staying connected while behind the wheel more convenient and more safe. All it takes is connecting your smartphone to your vehicle’s bluetooth. Once that connection is made, drivers can play music, accept phone calls and even receive text messages while keeping their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road the entire

time.

Self-parking: Drivers who never mastered the art of parallel parking need not avoid cities any longer. Some cars now come with self-parking features that drivers simply turn on. Once the feature is enabled, the car will parallel park itself.

Blindspot monitoring: Aging drivers who haven’t purchased a new car in awhile but are in the market may be thrilled to learn that blindspots have become a thing of the past. Blindspot monitoring systems alert drivers of approaching cars via a light on their sideview mirrors and/or a sound as drivers attempt to change lanes. This can make it easier for aging drivers with flexibility issues to avoid accidents when changing lanes. Anti-collision warning systems operate in a similar fashion, alerting motorists, and potentially even applying the brakes, if the system suspects the car is about to hit something.

Massaging seats: Many tech products in vehicles are designed to make driving safer, while others are all about comfort.

Massaging seats falls into the latter category. Such seats make it easy for drivers who like long road trips to get through trips without succumbing to the aches and pains that can develop when sitting behind the wheel for long stretches.

Modern vehicles are technological marvels that can make taking to the open road easier and more enjoyable than ever.

5 convenient tech features you want in your vehicle

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echnology has dramatically changed the way people live, and has increasingly changed how they drive as well.

While power windows were once coveted as high-tech features, the sophisticated technology available in modern cars and trucks can make earlier tech seem like child’s play.

While some vehicle technology is designed to keep you safe, other tech is all about comfort and convenience. The following are five options to consider when purchasing your next vehicle.

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Telematics: Telematics is a system that can remotely monitor many components of a vehicle’s diagnostics and driver behavior. While this telecommunications technology already is implemented in delivery, towing and public transportation industries, it can be utilized in the private market to track live weather conditions, traffic, parking lot information, fuel consumption, and battery power.

Manistee News Advocate • October 2020

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Cooled seats: While most drivers are familiar with heated seats, many vehicles now come equipped with cooled seats as well.

These seats can make it more comfortable to drive on hot days and improve air flow in the car as they work in conjunction with vehicle HVAC systems. Cooled seats can be expensive and will add weight to a vehicle, so they may be best for heavy sedans, SUVs and light trucks.

Wireless phone charging: Electronic devices have been going wireless for years, and the newest crop of wireless tech is wireless phone chargers. The online tech resource CNET says wireless charging pads have become ubiquitous in offices and homes, but now they’re becoming useful tools inside cars. Portable charging pads can plug into the automobile auxiliary power DC outlet. For example, the X-Doria Defense Helix wireless car charging mount with RoboGrip has powered “robotic” arms that automatically open when you place your phone near the charger and then clamp shut after you dock it. Wireless charging pads are built into vehicles manufactured by Lincoln and Mercedes-Benz, and may soon be standard technology on more cars and trucks.

Apple CarPlay: Mobile phone users tend to fall into two distinct camps: those who prefer iPhones and those who rave about Android offerings. Many car manufactures have realized consumers want CarPlay (and Android Auto) built standard into their vehicles. These apps allow drivers to access their most-used apps conveniently without an extra learning curve for manufacturer-specific driver assist apps.

Second- and third-row USB ports: USB ports for second- and third-row passengers is essential when moving an SUV full of kids or taking a road trip with the family.

Various vehicle tech features can improve comfort and convenience in modern cars and trucks.

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October 2020 • Manistee News Advocate

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What maintenance schedule does my car need?

ehicle maintenance schedules vary depending on manufacturer recommendations. In addition, the way a car is driven and the environment it’s driven in can dictate if routine maintenance like oil changes needs to occur more frequently or if belts and hoses need to be replaced sooner than manufacturers recommend.

rapidly under these and other conditions, including especially hot temperatures.

Many people drive in ways that align with routine maintenance schedules. However, drivers who put excessive wear and tear on their vehicles may have to follow a “severe” maintenance schedule. According to the automotive information site Car Gurus, many manufacturers adhere to a 30-60-90 schedule, meaning certain items need to be inspected, changed or replaced at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 miles. Certain vehicle parts wear out at predictable intervals, while others, such as rubber gaskets, windshield washer blades and tires, will degrade at irregular intervals.

Heavy loads: Advanced Auto Parts says transporting or towing heavy loads can put more wear and tear on a vehicle. Loads can include cargo or passengers.

It is generally recommended to speak with a mechanic and discuss driving habits to ensure vehicles operate efficiently and at peak capacity. The following are some conditions that may necessitate frequent maintenance.

Urban driving: Stop-and-go traffic in an urban setting can wear cars out more quickly than highway driving. Experts say lubricants found in motor oil break down

Short trips: Frequent, short trips can take a toll on a vehicle. Again, this may be a problem for those who reside in cities or bustling suburbs. Short trips of no more than five miles can contribute to an accumulation of water vapor that dilutes motor oil and adversely affects its efficacy.

Dusty or salty environments: Dust can accumulate in air filters and clog internal engine components. Similarly, living close to the coast and salt water also can cause car parts to rust or degrade quickly.

Extreme temperature conditions: People who reside in extremely cold or extremely hot climates may find that their vehicles have to work that much harder to operate, reducing the life span of automotive fluids, parts (especially car batteries) and the overall vehicle unless action is taken.

For those who frequently encounter these severe conditions, switching to a severe maintenance schedule with the guidance of an automotive service shop can help.

The added cost of more frequent fluid changes and other maintenance can be recuperated by fewer breakdowns and the reduced need for potentially costly repairs.

Manistee News Advocate • October 2020

Car trouble?

Check the fuse box

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odern automobiles are technological marvels that rely on electrical components more than ever before. According to The Family Handyman, vehicles have 40 or more fuses grouped in two or more places.

to determine which vehicle components aren’t working. If the fuses are not numbered, then it’s a matter of removing fuses to see which circuits stop working to help narrow down the issue.

Replacing fuses Vehicles may have different types of fuses.

It’s important to know which ones are in the car so you can get the right replacement.

Just like fuses in a home’s electrical panel, automotive fuses stop excessive current flow that can overheat circuits, damage “Blade” fuses are common and have a equipment or cause fires. Any electrical conductive horseshoe-shaped metal strip component in a vehicle, such as the radio or that runs through an outer plastic housing. headlights, are tied to a fuse.

If the metal strip appears broken, the fuse is When something goes awry with no good. automotive electrical components, drivers Cylindrical glass fuses are found in some may be quick to believe the components cars. They’re also known as “Buss” fuses. If themselves or even the car’s battery or the metal strip that runs down the center is alternator are to blame. Mechanics say that broken, the fuse needs to be replaced. it’s entirely possible that a blown fuse is the cause of the problem. Simply checking and/ Older European cars have ceramic fuses built with an outer copper conductive or replacing the fuse can surface. The narrow part of the copper alleviate the issue. piece breaks in the middle when the fuse Finding the fuses blows.

The location of the fuse box depends on the make and model of the vehicle. Drivers Regardless of their design, fuses will be clearly labeled with their ampere ratings, should consult their owner’s manual to according to CarID. Physically remove the learn where the fuse boxes are located. fuse using a small, specially shaped fuse Some vehicles have two fuse boxes puller tool that may be included inside the that serve different purposes. Engine fuse box. Replace the fuse with one of the compartment fuse boxes protect certain engine components, including the anti-lock same amperage by gently pushing it into place. brake pump. Fuses inside or beneath the dashboard may protect dome lights or the If the new fuse blows relatively quickly air conditioning system. after replacement, or multiple fuses blow According to How a Car Works, the individual fuses in the box are typically numbered. That makes it easier for drivers

at one time, a larger current issue may be the problem. Consult a mechanic in this instance.

Gas in a car won’t stay fresh forever

he outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 in 2019-20 had a significant impact on drivers. In an effort to stop the spread of the virus, many countries issued stay-at-home orders that mandated businesses close their doors and allow employees to work from home. In addition, restaurants and popular tourist destinations were closed for a period of time, giving people few reasons to drive. As a result, drivers ended up spending less time on the road and less money at the gas station. But what about the gas they did purchase?

Can gas go bad? Yes it can, according to Consumer Reports, which notes that the lighter, more volatile components of gasoline evaporate over time. Old gas can compromise engine performance, potentially causing a car to hesitate or stall. Gas that has gone bad can begin to smell like varnish and will darken over time, though discoloration often occurs only in

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the most extreme situations. To determine if gas smells differently, drivers should avoid putting their nose into their vehicle’s gas tanks. Instead, remove the gas cap and stand next to the car where you would normally put the gas pump. If you detect an aroma of varnish coming from the car, then the gas has likely gone bad. An easier way to determine if gas has gone bad is to consider how long it’s been since you refilled the tank. Gas can begin to go bad in as little as three months, so drivers who haven’t driven much over that period may have bad gas in their tanks. One way drivers can combat bad gas, even if they aren’t driving much, is to add fuel stabilizer when filling up the tank. Fuel stabilizer keeps gas from degrading, but it’s only effective if it is mixed with good gasoline, hence the reason to add it when filling up and not when you detect the gas already in the car has gone bad.

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October 2020 • Manistee News Advocate

Signs headlights may need to be replaced

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utomobiles require a little TLC to stay on the road and operate efficiently. When vehicle maintenance is ignored, vehicles operate less efficiently and, in many instances, less safely as well.

Jerking and stalling is a telltale sign of engine trouble, but some vehicle problems are more subtle.

One such problem is fading headlights. Fading headlights can pose a significant threat to drivers and their passengers as well as fellow motorists. According to the National Safety Council, drivers do only one-quarter of their driving at night. However, the NSC notes that 50 percent of traffic deaths occur at night. Such figures highlight the potential dangers of nighttime driving,

which only becomes more dangerous if headlights are not operating at optimal capacity.

Since drivers do most of their driving during the daytime, it’s easy to overlook headlight performance. However, it’s important that drivers learn to recognize the signs that headlights need to be replaced.

Dimming Dimming headlights do not necessarily require replacement.

In some instances dimming headlights are a byproduct of a dirty car. The buildup of dirt and grime can reduce light output even when the headlights are otherwise fine. If your car is dirty, take it to the car wash and make sure the headlights are scrubbed

clean of dirt and grime. Then drive at night to see if the light output of your headlights is still dim. If so, the headlight bulbs may need to be replaced.

Flickering Flickering headlights can indicate anything from worn out headlight bulbs to a weak car battery to loose connections.

Flickering is one of the more dangerous headlight issues, as it can lead to headlights suddenly going dark while drivers are on the road at night. If headlights are flickering, take the car to a mechanic as soon as possible to have the issue resolved.

One light out When one headlight goes dark, chances are the other is not far

behind. Automotive experts recommend replacing headlight bulbs in pairs, even if only one bulb has gone dark, because this ensures equal light output.

be overlooked. But recognizing

Headlight maintenance tends to

nighttime driving.

the signs of fading headlights can help drivers avoid accidents and vastly improve the safety of

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