Special Sections - On The Road Again Spring/Summer 2018

SPRING • SUMMER 2018

ON THE ROAD AGAIN AN OLYMPIC PENINSULA GUIDE TO AUTOMOTIVE MAINTENANCE, SAFETY & LEISURE

Women on Wheels page 3

Electric vehicles page 5

Motorcycle safety page 10

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PRODUCED BY PENINSULA DAILY NEWS AND SEQUIM GAZETTE

2 APRIL 2018

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CONTENTS

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

SPRING • SUMMER 2018

ON THE ROAD AGAIN 3 WOMEN ON WHEELS CLINIC 4 MOTORCYCLES, TECH & SAFETY 5 GUIDE TO ELECTRIC, HYBRID CARS Terry R. Ward regional publisher 8 WEDDING TRANSPORTATION TRENDS Steve Perry general manager Brenda Hanrahan and Laura Lofgren special sections editors 9 ECO-FRIENDLY ROAD TRIP Articles & submissions 9 TIPS FOR A FUN DRIVING VACATION 10 RECALLED: WHAT’S NEXT? 10 PREP ATVS FOR SPRING 11 HOW TO CHANGE A TIRE Produced and published by the PENINSULA DAILY NEWS & SEQUIM GAZETTE Advertising Department Offices: 305 W. First St., Port Angeles, WA 98362 360-452-2345 • peninsuladailynews.com 147 W. Washington St., Sequim, WA 98382 360-683-3311 • sequimgazette.com

We’re always on the lookout for article ideas to include in our biannual On The Road Again special section.

If you have an idea for a story, please let us know.

Professionals in their field are invited to contribute informative and educational articles or columns for consideration in On The Road Again.

Send articles, columns and photos (jpgs at 200 dpi minimum) to special sections editor Laura Lofgren at llofgren@peninsuladailynews.com.

We cannot guarantee publication due to space and content considerations. If your submission is accepted, we reserve the right to edit it.

Submitted articles are the opinions and beliefs of the contributing writer and in no way represent an endorsement by On The Road Again, Peninsula Daily News or Sequim Gazette.

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The clinic will take place from 11 a.m.

“My husband owned a shop in Seattle to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 21. for 30-some years,” Stewart said, “and ASE- (Automotive Service Excellence) when we moved to the area ... we purcertified technicians, with their handschased the business. on training, will teach women how to “My feeling has always been that change a tire using a jack and a spare walking into a car repair shop has been tire; how to check tire pressure; how a bit daunting. I wanted to make our to check tire tread; how to recognize, shop ‘women-user friendly.’ locate and change fuses; how to check “I thought the best way to help women vehicle fluid level/condition; how to jump feel more comfortable is to help them a battery; and how to perform a vehicle learn a bit about their car so that they lighting inspection. can feel better about the decisions they Attendees also will learn important make when faced with repairs/maintesafety procedures. nance decisions.”

According to owner Susan Stewart, Stewart continued, “I wanted the the workshop “is geared toward educatworkshop to help alleviate some of the ing women on the ‘mysteries’ of their anxiety and stress of car ownership for car so they are informed consumers and women in our community. empowered automobile owners.”

“I like the hands-on idea and the ability Every participant will receive an auto- for the participants to actually see a shop motive safety kit and a W.O.W. (Women (more than the reception area) and talk on Wheels) T-shirt. directly to an ASE-certified mechanic and Stewart said the attendees do not have the opportunity to ask questions in have to be customers of Circle & Square an informal and fun way.”

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN

Ways technology is making motorcycles safer

By MetroCreative Once the winter snow melts, motorcycle enthusiasts prepare to take out their rides for another season of wind-in-yourhair adventures.

Whether touring iconic roads or making quick jaunts around the neighborhood, bikers of all ages enjoy climbing onto their rides and hitting the open road.

When the weather warms, motorists are bound to see an influx of motorcycles on the road. So it’s only natural that, come spring, many motorists’ thoughts turn to motorcycle safety.

Statistics indicate that motorcycles are more dangerous than cars.

According to Wired, people on motorcycles are nearly 30 times more likely to die in a crash than people in cars, due in part to motorcycles’ lack of airbags, crumple zones and seat belts.

Upon the return of warm weather, motorcycle enthusiasts should revisit safety protocols and even explore the technological innovations that are helping to make motorcycling safer.

GET YOUR CAR

BIKES THAT TALK Vehicle-to-vehicle communications technology can help reduce motorcycle accidents and injuries.

Using short-range Wi-Fi-based communication, motorcycles can track vehicles in the vicinity; assess speed, braking and other elements; and alert riders with enough time to avoid a crash.

The hardware produced by Autotalks and Bosch is scheduled to be tested on Ducati motorcycles.

Bosch’s initial research suggests it could prevent one-third of all motorcycle accidents in Germany, where the company is headquartered and will conduct the study.

MODERN HEAD PROTECTION Motorcycle helmets protect one of the most important parts of the body that can be injured in motorcycle accidents.

Seemingly a simple piece of equipment, helmets are continually evolving to prevent injuries.

Some new technologies include using airbag systems with helmet designs to provide neck and spinal protection im-

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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has said biker deaths have waned thanks to safety features like blind-spot monitoring.

Self-driving cars can bring accident WEAR LEATHER numbers down even more because they Apart from looking the biker part, will eliminate distracted drivers, imthere are other advantages to wearing paired drivers and factors that comprise leather when riding.

Leather is resistant to abrasion, which driver error. protects riders against cuts.

AUTONOMOUS FEATURES Leather also is good at insulating, so Although self-driving motorcycles are riders can stay comfortable when the unlikely to be available anytime soon, wind is chilly.

In addition to leather jackets and pants, certain features that can map the road ahead and warn of terrain or curves leather gloves and boots are suggested. might be in the works.

BMW envisions systems that can do SELF-DRIVING VEHICLES just this, warning bikers to slow down or People might wonder just what selfmaking navigation changes. driving cars will have to do with motorSafety is a consideration anytime cycle safety, but putting driving into the bikers decide to go for a ride. Technolvirtual hands of a computer can elimiogy can help bikers reduce their risk of nate driver error. That means cars will accident or injury. be able to sense an oncoming bike and mediately on impact.

Sensors built into the helmets can record speeds and inflate if a crash seems imminent.

SAFELY SHARE THE ROAD WITH MOTORCYCLES Drivers must respect the rights of motorcycle riders, and riders would be wise to acknowledge their own vulnerabilities to cars and trucks. Motorists can heed the following tips to reduce their risk of being involved in accidents with motorcycles.

• Carefully check vehicle mirrors before changing lanes, as motorcycles are often obscured behind larger automobiles.

• Drivers should be on even higher alert at intersections and turns, actively looking for motorcycles.

• Allow for greater passing distance when passing a motorcycle.

The gust of wind that results as cars accelerate and pass motorcycles could cause the bike to become unstable. Signal all intentions to pass and allow several car lengths before returning to the lane.

• Drivers are advised to give motorcycles the entire lane. It is not all right to pass a motorcycle in the same lane even though they take up less room. Many bikers ride tandem in lanes for this reason.

• Motorists driving behind bikes should increase the distance between the back of the motorcycle and their own vehicles.

• Be mindful of changes in the weather. Driving in the rain or other adverse conditions can be challenging for cars and trucks, but inclement weather is even more hazardous for bikers.

• Exercise extra caution at night, when riding can be especially treacherous for motorcycle riders. Cars should refrain from passing and avoid using their high beams unless it’s necessary.

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN

APRIL 2018

5

A beginner’s guide to electric, hybrid cars

By MetroCreative & Peninsula Daily News

Here’s how to navigate the ins and outs of EVs.

sional to see if this is applicable.

Electric or hybrid vehicles can be smart additions to eco-friendly lifestyles.

Although such cars were once science fiction, electric vehicles (EVs) are now increasingly more common and are traversing roadways around the world.

Thanks to several mainstream brands offering EVs and hybrid models, consumers are more informed than ever before about the benefits of a plugged-in ride.

Still, even with the wealth of information available, some people still might be unsure about what owning an EV entails and how to make informed decisions when shopping for such vehicles.

Going electric means thinking beyond the gas station.

TYPE OF VEHICLE First consider that all EVs are not the same.

Hybrid vehicles use a mix of gasoline and electricity and tend to have long fuel ranges.

All-electric cars will use only electricity that is gained through charging the vehicle for a certain period of time.

ENVIRONMENTAL SAVINGS Electric cars produce no emissions from the tailpipe and reduce dependency on oil-based fuels.

Furthermore, EVs will not need oil changes or emissions checks that traditional cars require, further saving resources.

The resource Plug in Cars says that EVs can also save on fuel costs, ranging at 2 cents per mile traveled, compared to 12 cents for gas-fueled vehicles.

FILL-UPS EVs can be charged at home using personal charging kits or at charging stations in the neighborhood.

Charge times will depend on the size of the vehicle and its battery.

ELECTRIC continues on 8 >>

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AFFORDABILITY Consumers can expect to pay more for electric and hybrid vehicles than gas-powered vehicles.

But as demand increases, costs might drop.

According to a report from USA Today, estimates point to EVs as being as affordable as gas vehicles by 2021.

Another consideration is there might be tax incentives for purchasing an EV. Speak with a tax profes-

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According to TheCharg ingPoint.com, an EV resource, the typical time for an all-electric car using a standard home wall socket is between 6 and 8 hours.

Some new EVs can be charged in 30 minutes to an hour at rapid charging points.

SOLAR + EVS = SAVINGS Consumer Reports advises that, when EVs are combined with home solar systems, “fuel” costs can be completely eliminated.

That financial gain can be a big motivator for some consumers.

SHORT TRIPS Individuals who travel 80 miles or fewer per day might find pure electric

PENINSULA DAILY NEWS/SEQUIM GAZETTE

vehicles advantageous.

Those who have to go further should consider hybrids that offer greater range; however, Tesla, Chevy and Nissan EVs have recently moved beyond the 200-mile range before requiring a charge.

CHARGING STATIONS A report from University of Michigan researchers using data from the Department of Energy suggests that there are now roughly 16,000 public electric vehicle charging stations with about 43,000 connectors in the United States.

The Olympic Peninsula has plenty of EV charging stations within Clallam and Jefferson counties, including several Tesla ports.

Visit www.chargehub. com to find one near you.

As you travel around the Peninsula in your electric car, you’ll have no problem finding an EV charging station nearby.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

Wedding transportation trends

By MetroCreative Couples planning their weddings routinely rely on professional transportation to bring them to and from the ceremony and reception.

According to The Knot Real Weddings Study 2016, roughly half of all engaged couples will hire a transportation service, such as a limousine or party bus for their weddings.

Wedding transportation options abound, and some are more popular than others.

The following are some of the ways couples are getting to their big day on time.

guests to get themselves to and fro, couples can employ buses or shuttles stocked with amenities to transport a greater number of people.

The Real Weddings Study indicates this type of transport has grown considerably more popular in the last six years.

EXOTIC LIMOUSINES The chauffeur-driven limousine continues to be one of the most popular methods of transportation; however, to set their weddings apart, couples are trending away from traditional stretch limousines and renting something more trendy, such as limos built upon sports cars.

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aisle,” said wedding planner Kim Leppell, of Kim’s Creations & Tulle Shed in Forks (www.kimscreations andtulleshed.com).

VINTAGE CARS For that A-list look right out of a classic movie, stepping out of a vintage vehicle creates red-carpet moments.

Dream cars for this type of glamorous arrival and departure include Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin and others.

Many private companies rent classic vehicles.

Couples also might contract with those who attend classic car shows.

“If people want a vintage car in the Forks area, I give them Jerry Leppell’s phone number at Jerry’s Rentals,” Leppell said.

WATER TRANSPORT Couples celebrating by the ocean, a lake or a river can make a grand entrance aboard a vessel.

Water taxis, pontoon boats and even sleek speedboats can be the transportation of choice.

The Knot says couples spend around 6.5 months researching their wedding day transportation options and will make their decision and a reservation five months before their weddings.

“None of my clients have ever asked about a boat,” Leppell said, “(but) that would be pretty fun to do someday, though!”

The more exotic the transportation option, the earlier couples should make their decisions to ensure they can book their first choice.

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN

APRIL 2018

Make your next road trip an eco-friendly one and don’t rush to their destination.

And driving slowly happens to be more ecofriendly, as well.

According to the online automotive resource Edmunds.com, gently gaining speed is much more fuel-efficient than accelerating quickly.

Always obey speed limits and avoid quickly accelerating when stoplights turn green.

By MetroCreative Many drivers anxiously await the arrival of spring, when they can rev their engines and enjoy the burgeoning greenscapes synonymous with the season.

Though the colors of fall foliage might be more closely associated with road trips, many drivers enjoy the first few warm days of spring when they get a chance to hit the open road with their windows down for the first time in months.

Driving is not always the most eco-friendly activity.

However, there are various ways to enjoy spring road trips without compromising the environment.

DO NOT IDLE YOUR VEHICLE When engines are running but cars are not moving, this is referred to as “idling.”

It’s hard to blame drivers for idling their vehicles in winter, when many

motorists try to warm up their engines and their vehicles’ interiors so their morning commutes are as comfortable as possible.

Idling cars might not be moving, but they are still burning fuel, meaning drivers who routinely idle their vehicles are adverse-

ly affecting fuel efficiency.

It’s also important to note that idling is no longer necessary in modern vehicles.

That’s because the electronic fuel injection systems in today’s cars require just a few seconds to get full oil pressure

throughout the engine.

Such systems were not present in older vehicles.

TAKE IT EASY ON THE ROAD Road trips tend to be more enjoyable and are certainly safer when drivers take their time

9

thereby reducing its fuel efficiency.

Athletes and outdoors enthusiasts also should remove golf bags and sporting equipment from their trunks when taking trips where such items won’t be needed.

DON’T TOP OFF AT THE GAS PUMP Many drivers, especially those on road trips who want to avoid extra tops at the filling station, top off their gas tanks when EMPTY THE TRUNK nozzles shut off automatiDuring winter, many cally. drivers understandably Such a practice is carry some extra items in their trunk to account for harmful to the planet and might not be doing your inclement weather. vehicle any favors, either.

Keeping ice scrapers, The U.S. Environmental extra coolant or even a Protection Agency notes snow shovel in the trunk gasoline needs some extra might make sense for drivers who live in regions room in gas tanks to expand. that routinely encounter Without that extra heavy snowfall. room, the gas can evapoWhen spring arrives, rate into the vehicle’s drivers should remove vapor collection system, any unnecessary items adversely affecting emisfrom their trunks.

Such items will increase sions and potentially damaging the vehicle. the weight of the vehicle,

Tips for a successful driving vacation Before departing, ensure your vehicle is in good working order to reduce the likelihood of a breakdown. Make sure you have a spare tire and tire-changing tools, just in case.

• Don’t pack too much.

Leave some room in the vehicle for souvenirs picked up along the way. Take advantage of hotel laundry facilities to keep clothes fresh and to avoid having to pack too many outfits.

• Adjust as you go.

Even the best plans need to be modified on occasion. Keep an open mind and be flexible so you can enjoy any unexpected wonders that may pop up. Flexibility also can help you adapt to traffic or detours.

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to have greater control can decide where to stop in advance, researchDriving vacations can be budget- ing hotels, attractions and dining friendly ways to get away from establishments. home for a few days.

• Be firm with departure times.

Such excursions can be customMake a plan to leave at a particuized according to families’ particular hour and stick to it. This will lar schedules and interests. help to keep the trip on schedule.

To make the most of driving vaca• Share the driving. tions, travelers can employ these tips.

Know your driving limits and • Map the destination. share driving duties with someone Figure out the duration of the else who can take over if or when trip ahead of time, jotting down ap- fatigue sets in. proximate times of travel. This will • Pack stuff for kids to do. help you break up the ride so you Prevent or delay the “are we can include stops for food, bathroom there yets” with movies, puzzles, breaks and fill-ups. books and music for children. Pack • Plan food and accommodations. headphones so their devices will Some people like to plan road not disturb others. trips as they go. Those who prefer • Schedule a tune-up beforehand.

By MetroCreative

10 APRIL 2018

Your vehicle has a recall … now what?

By MetroCreative Vehicles are expensive.

When motorists drive their vehicles away from a dealership, they hope to travel many miles before they need to come back for maintenance.

But manufacturers sometimes issue recalls that can affect drivers of both new and old vehicles.

Recalls are safety precautions taken should a portion of a vehicle or the entire car or truck not operate in the manner it was intended.

In many instances, auto manufacturers will directly contact customers who are affected by a recall via a letter, email or both.

Individuals also can stay current on recalls by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website, www.NHTSA.gov.

According to AutoTrader, recalls are becoming more common because of the complexity of modern vehicles.

NHTSA flagged nearly 22 million vehicles for safety issues in 2013, and

PENINSULA DAILY NEWS/SEQUIM GAZETTE

that number is on the rise.

Drivers can follow these important steps if they learn of a recall.

• Don’t panic, but don’t ignore recalls.

The experts at Kelley Blue Book say recalls often occur due to a problem in the manufacturing process in similar models, and this issue may surface in other vehicles.

Recalls do not guarantee vehicles will malfunction or break down; however, consumers are urged to take recalls seriously, adopting a “better safe than sorry” approach when recalls are announced.

• Follow the instructions.

A recall notice should come with instructions.

Instructions often advise drivers to take their vehicles to the dealership where the cars were purchased.

Notices can provide information regarding nearby dealerships for drivers who have moved since buying their cars or trucks.

• No payment should

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be necessary.

The cost of repairing the recalled part should not fall on your shoulders.

Such repairs are paid by the manufacturer.

The financial resource Bankrate.com notes that, “if you had the repair made before the recall was issued (up to a full year), the automaker is legally obligated to reimburse you, as long as you had the work done at one of its franchised dealers.”

Save all receipts for the work.

If work was done by a private mechanic, drivers still might be eligible for reimbursement.

• Be patient.

Dealerships are not responsible for making repairs until the date indicated on the recall notice, so motorists might need to wait before having their vehicles repaired.

• Request a loaner vehicle.

In some instances, recalls might take a few days to fix.

Although not every dealership can make loaner vehicles available, it’s still worth requesting

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Recalls can affect any vehicle. Follow the instructions on the recall notice and have the problem addressed promptly. one so you are not inconvenienced.

Anyone having difficulty with a recall can contact the NHTSA by

email, by phone or by mail at nhtsa.webmaster@dot. gov, 1-888-327-4236 or 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, Washington, DC

20590, respectively.

Those who suspect a safety problem also can contact the agency and report their concerns.

Prep your ATV for the spring hunters or campers who need to carry gear into remote areas.

Birds are chirping and flower buds are ATVs and UTVs can be great fun for opening to the sunlight, but for many the entire family; however, they can be outdoor enthusiasts, the arrival of warm hazardous if the vehicles are not funcdays and extra hours of sunlight means tioning and in good repair prior to the they can hit the trails once more. first excursion.

Many take to the trails on the back of Whether the vehicle is new or older, their favorite “toys” that have been gath- owners should take the time to inspect ering dust in the garage all winter long. and troubleshoot potential problems.

All-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, are affectionately known as “quads” and TIRES have dominated the off-roading market As with any vehicle, tires should be since three-wheel varieties were deemed properly inflated according to the specisafety risks. fications in the owner’s manual.

ATVs come in a variety of types and Ensure there are no slow leaks before motor sizes, and can be customized for taking the ATV out, and replace tires if riders of different ages. necessary.

Utility terrain vehicles, or UTVs, have the ability to carry things along and can OILS AND FLUIDS generally accommodate more than one Take the time to check fluid levels rider. Such vehicles are becoming more before going out. coveted among outdoor enthusiasts.

UTVs might be a smart choice for ATV continues on 11 >>

By MetroCreative

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN

APRIL 2018

11

Changing a tire: Know the basics before the pop

By Brandpoint For many drivers, fixing a flat tire remains a mystery.

According to a survey from AAA, nearly 20 percent of U.S. drivers don’t know how to change a flat.

This is compounded by research saying there are 220 million flat tires annually — and each driver will experience up to five flat tires in their lifetime.

Before hitting the road, study up on these flat-tire-fixing hacks and build up the confidence to complete this allAmerican road test:

Once in a safe spot, remember to practice high visibility: Wear a reflective vest and position reflective emergency warning triangles to alert motorists.

Don’t forget to add these items to your roadside toolkit.

HIT THE ROAD, JACK Having the right tools on board is critical, of course, and that’s where a jack comes in.

Remember, the jack is only used to get the vehicle off the ground, not to hold the vehicle in place — that’s where the jack stand comes in to ensure a safe and sustained lift.

Refer to the owner’s manual for the proper placement of the jack and the stands, typically the sturdiest part of the vehicle.

BE SPARED Spare tires are usually hidden under the carpet in the trunk area, but they aren’t always included in newer vehicles (allowing manufacturers to make lighter, more fuel-efficient vehicles).

RIDER’S BLOCK When purchasing a new vehicle, ask A common — and dangerous — error the dealer about the inclusion of a spare. when changing a tire is not using blocks to prevent the wheels from rolling once FLATLINING SIGNS A flat tire is usually accompanied by a the vehicle is raised.

A tire-changing tool pack should loud noise or rubber flapping. include bricks or wooden wedges to be The vehicle will feel like it is being placed behind the wheels at the end of pulled toward the side of the flat tire, the vehicle that isn’t being raised. and it will feel as if the vehicle can no longer accelerate.

When in doubt, activate hazard lights GET LOOSE Once the jack has been cranked up, and move the vehicle safely out of traffic, ideally on a flat area with enough space and the wheel is slightly off the ground, it’s time to remove the hubcap and then on the side of the road.

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can cause engine trouble.

If it has been quite some time since the most recent oil change, make that part of your seasonal preparation.

Be sure to replace the oil filter as well.

If this task is too challenging, bring the ATV or UTV to an automotive shop.

BATTERY A dead battery can be a real downer for riders enjoying the great outdoors.

Battery tender products are a good idea for those who typically store their ATVs for longer than a week.

Be sure a battery is the right size and type for the vehicle, especially when purchasing a used ATV or UTV.

FUEL Smell the gas in the tank before taking to the road or trails.

Gas can spoil if it is not treated with stabilizer when the vehicle is left to sit.

Drain the fuel and start with fresh gas, as bad gas

VISUAL INSPECTION When looking at the ATV, check for holes, corrosion, tears and other damage to fuel lines, CV boots and other connections on the vehicle.

lug nuts in a “star-like” pattern; after tightening the first lug nut, tighten the one that is diagonally across from it and continue in that pattern.

This will prevent the wheel from wobbling.

In an age of mobile phones and easy connection to roadside assistance, the knowledge of addressing a flat tire has gone out the window.

But motorists should know and practice the basics of changing a flat to ensure they are prepared for the dreaded pop.

call for another key tool — a tire iron — to loosen the lug nuts and then pull off the flat tire.

Be careful not to strip the lug nuts.

BACK ON THE ROAD With the flat tire off, line up the spare tire’s holes with the wheel bolts and push on, hand-screwing the lug nuts back on.

Then, lower the jack a touch so the wheel is in slight contact with the ground.

Use the tire iron to further secure the

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