Spring car care

SPRING/SUMMER AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

On the

inside:

ROAD

• TAKE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED • GET READY FOR THAT FAMILY TRIP • AUTO BUYING TIPS A publication of SOUTHERN LAKES NEWSPAPERS • Spring/Summer 2017

for family TOP TIPS ROAD TRIPS

Page 2

AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Getting behind the wheel for an extended road trip?

“Family time starts the moment you hit the road,” says Tara Trompeter, managing editor at Autotrader. “A little bit of planning ahead before you get on the road will go a long way toward filling the experience with more fun and laughter for everyone involved.”

To keep road warriors comfortable and content on their drives, Autotrader editors offer some of their top travel tips.

Tune up

Do a quick check on the essentials before you head out.

Check the wear and pressure on your tires, and be sure your fluids (oil, coolant and wiper fluid) are topped off.

For do-it-yourselfers, you can perform these quick and easy inspections on your own. For added peace of mind, visit your local mechanic or dealership where you can have your car serviced by an accredited technician. Tending to potential issues proactively means you are more likely to avoid having to deal with them while you’re on the road.

Spring/Summer 2017

Avoid “are we there yet”?

Technology features like builtin screens and DVD players can be saviors on the road, but if your car doesn’t come equipped with these, consider bringing along a handheld device so kids can play games or watch videos. And if technology isn’t your thing, remember that magnetized board games and word games can work just as well.

You can also encourage kids to stay occupied by having them help you navigate and by playing DJ.

Have patience

These days, your car’s navigation tools can offer realistic travel times, but be prepared for the unexpected. Inclement weather, traffic and bathroom requests can set you back. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination.

Have fun!

Road trips can be a great pastime for the whole family while creating wonderful memories.

Enjoy the adventure of it!

To learn more, visit autotrader.

(STATEPOINT) com.

NICKOLYA - FOTOLIA.COM On the Road

Take care of any potential issues with your vehicle before heading out on the road to avoid unnecessary delays. Check the wear and pressure on your tires, and be sure your fluids are topped off.

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AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Page 3

Money-back guarantees add appeal to safety-critical auto repairs

When your vehicle’s brakes wear out, they probably “chirp” or grind. When your tires become worn, you can see the loss of tread depth.

Failed headlamp? Worn wiper blades? The evidence is right in front of you.

But how do you monitor the condition of safety critical parts that are largely “invisible” beneath your vehicle’s chassis?

Shock absorbers, for example, play critical roles in protecting your driving safety by keeping your tires planted firmly on the road, which in certain driving conditions can help you stop sooner, maintain more precise steering control and improve vehicle stability.

That’s why having your suspension inspected at least once a year is vitally important – you might not be aware that your shocks and other key safety components are no longer doing what they’re designed to do.

Ask about a guarantee

Some leading automotive parts manufacturers have established money-back guarantees to help demonstrate the importance of replacing worn components.

The Monroe shocks and struts brand, for example, now promises consumers they will “Feel the Difference” in ride and handling performance following installation of select new Monroe shocks and/or struts or get their money back, plus labor and alignment (if applicable), during a risk-free

90-day or 1,000-mile trial period.

“Consumers have the right to expect a noticeable, positive difference in vehicle performance following a repair,” said Mark Boyle, director of marketing for Tenneco, U.S.-based manufacturer of Monroe ride control products. “Our new Feel the Difference Guarantee is designed to offer the consumer assurance that they are making a wise investment in their vehicle. It also helps promote confidence and loyalty in their relationship with the repair provider.”

Because shocks and struts often wear out very gradually, the slow degradation of ride and handling precision can be difficult to detect – not unlike the gradual change in your eyesight. But, just as a new vision prescription can have surprising benefits, vehicle owners who replace worn shocks and struts or other undercar components can experience dramatically improved ride and handling.

New ride control parts can also reduce chances of abnormal wear of other components, including tires.

“After a ride control repair, many consumers are amazed at the difference in their overall driving experience,” Boyle said. “A guarantee like ours essentially is an investment in educating consumers about the ‘invisible’ parts that help keep them safe. And it helps ensure they get quality products from a supplier they can trust.”

(NAPS)

On the

ROAD 2017

SPRING/SUMMER

AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE A publication of Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 • (262) 728-3411 EDITOR: .................................................Tracy Ouellette EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: ...............................Sharon Soch CREATIVE DIRECTOR: ............................... Sue Z. Lange ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: ................Vicki Vanderwerff SPECIAL SECTIONS ADVERTISING: ......Karen Dubinsky FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: Call (262) 728-3411

Don’t be shocked by deteriorating shocks and struts. Have your suspension inspected at least annually. Keeping up with regular maintenance will extend the life of the vehicle.

FILE PHOTO On the Road

Hot tips to avoid buying a hot vehicle Page 4

AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Spring/Summer 2017

As more consumers turn to online sites and social media to find deals on used cars from private party sellers, experts warn that buyers should beware.

“Private sellers often offer some of the best deals available on used cars, but these transactions may also bear a certain amount of risk,” says John Rasmussen, Wells Fargo’s head of Personal Lending Group.

Over 707,000 motor vehicles were reported stolen in the United States in 2015, according to the FBI, a 3.1 percent rise over 2014. A portion of these vehicles are resold to consumers like you, which can mean problems down the line.

Consumers who buy a stolen car run the risk of the vehicle impoundment and troubles with the insurance agency should the car be involved in an accident. You may also find it virtually impossible to get your money back on the purchase.

To avoid this fate, Wells Fargo Direct Auto loan experts are sharing some smart tips.

Know your vehicle This means doing more than just a test drive. Find out the vehicle history by using online resources like Carfax.

Have a mechanic look at the vehicle.

Know the seller

Do your best to make sure the seller is who they say they are and that their name appears on the title and paperwork.

Any person trying to sell a car on behalf of someone else is a red flag.

Know your options Is the seller requiring that you pay cash? Be wary. That is a red flag, too.

Know the paperwork Car thieves often replace the Vehicle Identification Number from the stolen car with one that belongs to a legally registered vehicle. This process, which is known as “VIN cloning” or “retagging,” allows car thieves to cover up the car’s true history and forge title documents. Be sure to check that all the VINs located throughout the car (dashboard, driver door, under the hood) match each other and the paperwork.

No matter where you buy your car or from whom, be sure you understand the ins and outs of your payment plan.

If you are getting an auto loan from a bank, familiarize yourself with its terms before signing. You can learn more by visiting wellsfargo.com/auto-loans.

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Ask questions and do your research. Being a savvy car shopper can help you avoid the risks associated with buying from a private seller.

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AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Page 5

Tips on how to pamper your ride Whether your car is a classic or brand new, keeping it clean and maintained will give you great pride and impress those around you.

After all, an automobile is one of the biggest investments you can make, yet as soon as you drive it off the lot, it starts depreciating. A little care, however, can extend your car’s life, beauty and value.

To help, there’s a new Automotive Appearance Care Line from 303 Products that provides a variety of ways to improve your car inside and out.

For superior protection from the harmful effects of UV rays use the Protectant. It brightens all vinyl, rubber and plastic to keep it looking new, longer; helps prevent fading and cracking; repels dust, lint and staining; and dries with a non-greasy finish. For added convenience, it also comes in a wipe.

To keep plastic trim looking like new, the Trim Restorer and Protectant also helps restore the original luster of the plastic trim, provides UV protection, and repels dirt, dust and grime.

The Speed Detailer instantly shines and protects clear coat, fiberglass, plastic, chrome and glass. It blocks the sun’s harmful rays, helps protect against fading and keeps the vehicle looking clean between washes.

For a glossy showroom shine, grab the Quick Wax, which gently cleans and protects paint. You’ll get a longer-lasting shine and UV protection that lasts up to 30 days, helping to prevent color fading. It contains carnauba wax and is 100 percent silicone free.

If you have a convertible top, the Tonneau Cover and Convertible Top Cleaner is great to help brighten both hard and soft surfaces and remove tough stains...and it rinses residue free.

For leather, there’s the three-in-one complete Leather care solution that cleans, conditions and protects.

It’s safe on all finished leather and vinyl and helps prevent fading and cracking; reduces dust, lint and staining; and is a rinse-free formula – just spray it on and wipe it off.

All these products are available under the 303 Products brand and come from Gold Eagle Co., an industry pioneer in products that help preserve, protect and enhance the performance of autos everywhere. The new products are available at select retailers, including AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts and Amazon.

For more information, go to www.303automotive.com, www.Facebook. com/303products, @GoldEagleHelp or call (800) 621- 1251.

(NAPS)

FILE PHOTO On the Road

It can be easy to pamper your vehicle with the help of a new lineup of car care products that keep it clean and smart inside and out.

FILE PHOTO On the Road

Meet Miles the first ever BP Personality Pump, an interactive smart pump that will first start appearing at BP stations this year.

YOUR MOMENTS AT THE

gas pump

are about to get more

entertaining

The next time you find yourself pumping gas, don’t be surprised if Miles offers to keep you company. He’s not an attendant and he isn’t a friendly good Samaritan.

Miles is the name given to the first ever BP Personality Pump, an interactive smart pump that will first start appearing at BP stations this year. Miles uses proprietary technology allowing him to “speak” with consumers as they are filling their tanks. Miles receives responses in real-time through a touchscreen tablet allowing consumers to interact with him via an array of entertainment options.

“We know that most people don’t enjoy pumping gas.

So we asked ourselves, how can we make those moments spent at the pump more fun,” said Donna Sanker, chief marketing officer of BP Fuels North America. “With the BP Personality Pump, we hope to redefine perceptions of the routine fill-up and build a meaningful relationship with our consumers, giving them a fulfilling and entertaining experience during the time they spend with us.”

Miles is programmed to interact with consumers in

several different ways. During their visit, consumers will have the opportunity to engage Miles by playing music trivia, selecting songs to play through Pandora or even by recording a video e-card that they can then share on their social media channels.

Upon finishing filling up their tank, consumers will also have the opportunity to send themselves a text message with the content they created during their interaction with Miles. This message will include a link to the Pandora station they chose as well as a special return offer.

The goal, according to BP, is to make the otherwise routine task of filling a gas tank more fun and memorable.

To showcase more of Miles’ capabilities, BP has teamed up with The Onion Inc.’s creative services agency, Onion Labs, to develop a series of videos capturing customers’ interactions with Miles. You can watch this video, titled Laura & Miles, to learn more about the firstever Personality Pump. You can find more videos at www. theonion.com/special/innovation.

(BPT)

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AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Spring/Summer 2017

Taking the road less traveled requires special equipment and knowledge of how to handle a vehicle on different surfaces. Off roading can be a lot of fun, but make sure you know what you’re doing before you head out on your adventure.

FILE PHOTO On the Road

Want to take the road less traveled?

s ’ e r He how

Off-road driving on scenic, challenging trails can be fun, but it’s completely different than cruising down the road; keep these tips in mind to stay safe and avoid getting stuck.

SOFT OBSTACLES When you plan to tackle sand, snow, or mud, deflate your tires to improve your traction by decreasing the tire footprint. Maintain momentum, and if your wheels start spinning in the sand or snow, ease off the gas a bit. In mud, keep the wheels spinning to help clear the mud from the tires.

HARD OBSTACLES When you approach large rocks, logs, or ditches during off-road driving, take them at an angle, so only one tire engages the obstacle and the other three remain on level ground to maximize traction. Place one tire on the obstacle, then drive over it slowly to help protect the underside of your vehicle.

HILLS Always have an escape plan in case your trek doesn’t turn out as expected. However, you can increase your odds of safely taking on hills by approaching them straight on for maximum traction to all four tires. Use the highest gear possible to comfortably take the hill.

Having the right vehicles and tires makes for an

unparalleled off-roading experience, according to Pearse Umlauf, president and CEO of Jeep Jamboree.

“Jeep Jamborees are off-road adventure weekends that bring down-to-earth people to enjoy their Jeep 4x4s in the outdoors,” said Umlauf, who works to coordinate operations for safe use and maintenance of off-road vehicle trails in the U.S. and worldwide.

He noted that BFGoodrich Tires will be the official tire of Jeep Jamboree in 2017.

When you are ready to head to the backcountry, Del Albright, Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Famer, and BFGoodrich Performance Team Expert, has 50 years driving experience with tires on trails.

“The All-Terrain T/A KO2 tire is my tire of choice, with a rugged, durable design that makes it ideal for off-roaders who want to torture test their vehicles or just enjoy the backroads,” he said.

Albright also is a longtime advocate for conservation and preservation of trails for off-roading use. One of his favorite trails, the Rubicon Trail in Lake Tahoe, California, was at risk for closure due to erosion concerns, but Albright helped lead a group of volunteers to fix the trouble spots and preserve the trail for off-roaders and other outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Some of his other favorites include Rausch Creek OffRoad Park (Pennsylvania), San Hallow State Park (Utah) and the Hatfield-McCoy Trail (West Virginia).

For more information about BFGoodrich and off-road adventures, visit bfgoodrichtires.com.

(NEWUSA)

Spring/Summer 2017

AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

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How to improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency Your car can go farther for less if you take a few steps to keep it efficient.

It helps to take meticulous care of your vehicle by following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedules and using the right products inside and out. This includes getting your oil changed, rotating your tires, checking hoses and belts for wear, replacing worn windshield wipers and keeping your vehicle clean.

Another way to extend the life of your vehicle and improve fuel efficiency is to make sure your fuel system is clean.

To help, here are a few fuel system basics.

What does a fuel system do? A fuel system’s job is to properly maintain fuel demand. The fuel is eventually sprayed from the fuel injectors into the intake stream and into the combustion chamber.

What does a fuel system consist of? Depending on whether it’s a return or a returnless fuel system, it can consist of the fuel tank, fuel pump, sending fuel lines, fuel rail, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator and returning fuel lines. If you have a returnless system, there is no fuel pressure regulator or return fuel lines.

How do I know my fuel system needs to be cleaned? If your fuel injectors have become clogged from deposits, they are not able to provide the wide and fine spray of fuel needed for the spark to ignite it.

There are a few signs that may indicate you need to clean your fuel system: • You are getting lower gas mileage; • There is a hesitation when you put your foot on the gas pedal; and • You are experiencing a loss of power when driving your vehicle.

One easy and convenient solution is to use a total fuel system cleaner such as Max-Clean by premium synthetic lubricant manufacturer Royal Purple. It can clean fuel lines and injectors, restore fuel economy and reduce both engine buildup and tailpipe emissions by deeply penetrating and cleaning injectors, carburetors, intake valves and combustion chambers.

The lubricant works in a variety of engines whether new or old, gasoline or diesel. One bottle will treat 15 to 20 gallons. You just pour it into a nearly empty tank and refuel.

Fuel system maintenance can easily be added to your regular vehicle maintenance routine. Not only will it improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, it can save you from having to make costly repairs that may be needed when fuel deposits are left to build up.

For further advice and information, visit www. royalpurple consumer.com.

(NAPS)

FILE PHOTO On the Road

Whether you’re a passenger or driver, ridesharing seeks to get you where you want to go, be it a final destination or a financial goal. Local communities deserve friendly, safe transportation they can rely on, and the rideshare industry is close to making that a reality for all people.

5 reasons

ridesharing is on the rise The rideshare industry has exploded in popularity over the past several years, with companies devoted to making transportation safe, reliable and enjoyable. At the swipe of a finger and tap of a button, you can hail a car through your smartphone. Within minutes, you are picked up at your desired location and whisked off to your final destination, whether it’s the grocery store, movie theater or the hottest restaurant in town.

Here are five reasons why millions of Americans are requesting a ride every day:

1.

Owning and maintaining a car is expensive.

At more than $9,000 per year, per household, a car is the second most expensive purchase Americans make, yet the average car in the U.S. gets only 4 percent utilization per day. The rideshare industry was born from the idea that by pairing drivers and passengers headed in the same general direction, not only is traffic significantly reduced, but car ownership ultimately becomes optional when you know you have a ride you can rely on.

2.

SUBMITTED PHOTO On the Road

Fuel system maintenance can improve fuel efficiency and reduce the need for repairs, extending the life of you vehicle and saving you money.

It’s a safe way to get around. While pairing drivers and passengers who don’t know each other might seem unorthodox, thanks to stringent background checks, car safety checks and real-time ride tracking, hopping in an on-demand ride has become commonplace for people across the country. In fact, Lyft, the fastest growing rideshare service, currently covers 55 percent of the U.S. population, meaning 177 million people are able to request a safe, reliable ride every day.

By the end of 2017, that number will increase to 231 million, or 72 percent of the country.

3.

Ridesharing promotes community and economic growth. Not only is it an efficient way to get from point A to point B, ridesharing connects both people and communities. In 2016 alone, more than 162.5 million Lyft rides were taken. This opens the door for people who wouldn’t normally cross paths to share a car together. Drivers get to drop off passengers in neighborhoods they might not regularly venture to, and business owners serve customers that previously didn’t have easy access to their location. Ridesharing is a powerful driver of economic growth, encouraging local spending and pumping money back into the enrichment of neighborhoods.

4.

As a driver, ridesharing provides an excellent source of income. Be it primary or supplementary, driving provides flexibility and allows people to own their schedules, clocking in and out when they want, where they want. From coast to coast, teachers, retirees, aspiring musicians and everyone in between is using ridesharing as a source of income. Lyft is the only platform that allows passengers to tip, with more than $150 million dollars going directly into the pockets of their drivers.

5.

On-demand transportation is proven to reduce drunk driving. According to a recent study, 88 percent of passengers say they are more likely to avoid driving while impaired because of Lyft, and 53 percent of passengers use the platform to safely get friends and family home who are intoxicated. One tap of a button ultimately leads to saving lives by reducing the number of intoxicated drivers on the road.

(BPT)

HYBRIDS are driving down fuel use Page 8

AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Spring/Summer 2017

Protecting the planet can be a beautiful thing, especially when it comes to driving a new kind of hybrid car.

Turning to some of the latest innovations in automotive technology to create hybrid vehicles that are handsome and comfortable as well as fuel efficient, one car company created a plug-in hybrid with increased electric power range and driving dynamics.

This completely redesigned 2017 Optima Hybrid and its Plug-in Hybrid sibling, along with the all-new Niro crossover, were all designed under Kia Motors’ “EcoDynamics” philosophy to be environmentally friendly and fun to drive.

Here’s why:

FUEL EFFICIENCY The all-new 2017 Optima PHEV was engineered with a dual focus on efficiency and driving dynamics. Using Kia’s highly efficient 2.0-liter “Nu” four-cylinder GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, means power output is targeted for a class-leading 154 hp at 6,000 rpm.

Electric power is produced by a transmission-mounted 50 kW motor, which is 42 percent more powerful than in the previous Optima Hybrid to allow for greater all-electric capability. This hybrid system provides a fast and seamless transition from EV to gasoline to hybrid modes, as well as more refined shift quality.

With an estimated 600 miles of total driving range, the battery system produces

FILE PHOTO On the Road

roughly 60 percent more energy output than before and the battery can deliver up to 27 miles in electric-only mode.

Additional power comes from regenerative braking. A full charge can be achieved in less than three hours. To increase available trunk capacity, the new battery is hidden behind the rear seat and tire well.

Another help is the Coasting Guide that coaches you on when to coast and brake via an icon in the instrument panel. To save fuel even more, the grille automatically opens and closes at high and low speeds, to improve aerodynamics.

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INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGY As for making driving easier and more fun, there’s a host of driver assistance systems and convenience features including Autonomous Emergency Braking

(under appropriate conditions, it stops the car to avoid a collision), Blind-Spot Detection, Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning System and Forward Collision Warning System.

You can use an app to remotely start the car, unlock the doors and set the inside temperature. Drivers are treated to an outstanding audio experience with the available 630-watt premium surround sound audio system and its 10 speakers.

A new body structure helps provide crash protection and better driving dynamics and even a quieter ride.

For extra convenience, heated and ventilated front seats are available with power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats.

You can find further information about these vehicles and how to get one online at www.kia.com.

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Surprising factors impacting car buyers’ decisions Spring/Summer 2017

While make and model are still dominant factors on car lots, today’s consumers have a new set of priorities, thanks to increasingly sophisticated in-vehicle technologies being offered in new cars.

From connectivity systems that include voice command controls to technologies that make parking a cinch, today’s consumers want more from their rides.

In fact, nearly half of consumers – 48 percent – prioritize in-vehicle technology over brand or body style, according to the 2017 Autotrader Car Tech Impact Study.

And they know what they want, too. The study found that consumers these days are researching the exact features they’d like to purchase before visiting the dealership.

“What once seemed like something only for ‘The Jetsons’ is quickly becoming everyday reality in the automotive landscape,” says Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. “And it’s not just vehicles with a high price-point. Many mainstream family cars are now equipped with technology features only seen on top-ofthe-line luxury vehicles just a few short years ago.”

Experts say that while consumers should embrace the convenience and enhanced safety offered by new-car technology, they also need to educate themselves so they fully understand what these features can – and just as importantly, what they cannot – do.

“Understanding your car can help you become a better, safer driver,” says Moody.

However, the future may also involve less driving.

Self-driving technologies are become more sophisticated, affordable and normalized. To that end, a growing number of consumers say they are willing to take a hands-off approach to their cars in the future. Indeed, 49 percent of respondents indicated they’d give up control of their car in exchange for some free time, up from 35 percent in 2016.

To learn more about today’s must-have technology, visit autotrader.com/MustHaveTech.

(STATEPOINT)

AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Page 9

SARYMSAKOV.COM - FOTOLIA.COM On the Road

Whether you are a parent concerned with the latest safety features, or a Millennial expecting your vehicle’s technology to be every bit as robust as your smartphone, get educated about the features that matter to you, before heading to the dealership.

DON’T DRIVE DAMAGED GOODS

FILE PHOTO On the Road

Thousands of people are driving potentially unsafe vehicles – but you don’t have to be among them.

More than 725,000 vehicles driven on U.S. roads every day may be dangerous, according to new research from Carfax.

These vehicles were damaged so severely in an accident, by fire or flood that DMVs across the country require permanent title marks to warn people about the damage. Still, thousands are back on the road in every state, and worse, many of the owners may have no idea they’re driving a rebuilt wreck.

That’s because some unscrupulous sellers resort to what’s known as “title washing”; that is, they alter the car’s documents. These criminals patch badly damaged cars back together, erase documented evidence of the damage and resell them to unsuspecting buyers in other states. Many of these cars are sold on free online classifieds sites, in busy parking lots and other high-traffic areas.

“I was shopping for a car for my daughter and arranged to purchase one off Craigslist that looked immaculate,” said car buyer Scott Liker.

“The seller asked if I could pay cash and told me the vehicle had a clean title. I went to Carfax and was shocked to find it was issued a salvage title out of Florida. Within days, the vehicle was titled in Tennessee and a month later was in Missouri, now with a clean title. I was shaking, because I had just dodged a bullet,” he continued.

North Carolina, Mississippi, New Jersey, California and Georgia have the highest number of these potentially dangerous vehicles. Crooks also seem to be moving and reselling these vehicles in cities along the I-40 corridor, the research suggests.

“Hundreds of thousands of people driving unsafe vehicles is a serious threat to public safety,” said Larry Gamache, Carfax communications director. “In addition, anyone duped into buying one often pays thousands more than the car’s really worth. Insisting on a vehicle history report and mechanic’s inspection first will help you avoid unknowingly buying a car with major problems that crooks made disappear on paper.”

You can shop for used cars with confidence at www.carfax. com, where every car listed for sale comes with a free Carfax Report.

Victims of title washing can contact their state’s Consumer Affairs Depart­ment or Attorney General’s office for help.

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AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Spring/Summer 2017

State traffic deaths increased by nearly 6 percent in 2016

Wisconsin ended 2016 with 588 traffic fatalities, which was 33 more than 2015 and 40 more than the five-year average, according to preliminary statistics from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Traffic fatalities in 2016 were the highest since 2012 when 601 people died on Wisconsin roads.

“Low gas prices and an improving economy in 2016 likely contributed to an increase in the number of vehicles on the road and the miles they traveled. An increase in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) can also increase the risks for crashes,” said David Pabst, director of the WisDOT Bureau of Transportation Safety.

“The 2016 VMT will not be available for several more months. However, VMT in 2015 was up nearly 2.1 billion miles compared with the previous year and that was the largest statewide increase in 17 years. It seems likely that VMT in 2016 was high as well,” Pabst said.

He emphasizes that about 90 percent of crashes are caused at least in part by bad decisions and dangerous habits by drivers. In addition, multiple behavioral factors may be involved in a crash.

“Speeding, impaired driving and lack of safety belt use have for many years been frequent factors in fatal crashes,” Pabst said. “In recent years, there’s been an increase in distracted driving including the use of cell phones behind the wheel. The dangers of distracted driving, also known as inattentive driving, are not exaggerated. During the last five years, an average of 97 people were killed and more than 10,000 were injured annually in crashes in which at least one driver was listed as driving inattentively. Because distracted driving greatly increases the risk of causing a crash or failing to avoid one, people always need to pay attention to traffic and road conditions.”

To prevent deaths and injuries in the upcoming year,

WisDOT along with its traffic safety partners will intensify many safety initiatives including the following: There were 87 law enforcement task forces throughout the state in 2016 to combat drunken driving, drugged driving and distracted driving, as well as to increase safety belt use and pedestrian safety. The task forces allow multiple law enforcement agencies to coordinate and combine their resources for high-visibility enforcement and education efforts. Federal funding administered by WisDOT covers the overtime wages for task force officers.

More Wisconsin law enforcement officers are being trained to detect drug-impaired driving. Deaths from drugrelated traffic crashes have increased approximately 200 percent over the last 10 years. Wisconsin now has more than 230 drug recognition experts, putting it in the top five per capita in the United States.

High-visibility enforcement and education efforts, like the Click It or Ticket campaign, have increased safety belt use to more than 88 percent, which is an all-time high in Wisconsin.

However, Wisconsin’s safety belt use rate still lags behind neighboring states, all of which have safety belt use rates of more than 90 percent.

To prevent speed-related crashes on major highways, the State Patrol Air Support Unit flew 61 traffic enforcement missions last year. WisDOT used Twitter to advise drivers of the time and locations of many of the aerial enforcement missions to increase voluntary compliance with speed limits and other traffic laws.

WisDOT launched online crash forms and a new crash database on Jan. 1. The forms and database had not been updated in 20 years. They will provide critical data for improving traffic safety, such as information about crashes involving cell phone use.

The State Patrol is using crash data to plan where and

when to deploy its officers. In addition to interstate corridors, State Patrol officers are increasingly patrolling other highways with high crash rates.

The State Patrol received a $400,000 federal grant in 2016 to bolster its efforts to prevent large-truck crashes. Using grant funds, State Patrol officers are enforcing speeding and other traffic safety laws in 28 counties where serious injury and fatal crashes involving commercial motor vehicle are highest.

WisDOT will continue to work with motorcyclists’ groups to promote safety initiatives including the need for riders to always wear protective gear and to have a motorcycle endorsement on their license. From 2010 to 2014, about 68 percent of motorcyclists killed in crashes were not wearing helmets. During the same period, about 37 percent of motorcyclists killed in crashes had not completed the safety training or skills test required to obtain a motorcycle license in Wisconsin.

WisDOT and its traffic safety partners will use enforcement and education to increase voluntary compliance with a recently enacted state law that prohibits handheld cell phone use in road construction work zones.

“We will focus our traffic safety education and enforcement efforts on improving the behavior and decision making of drivers and others who travel on streets, local roads and highways,” Pabst said. “In addition, engineering advancements will help make the vehicles we drive and the roads we drive on much safer for all users.”

In assessing the increase in traffic fatalities, WisDOT Secretary Gottlieb said, “Preventing crashes that cause serious injuries and deaths will always be a top priority for our department. Traffic fatalities are more than just numbers and statistics. Each number was a person whose tragic death was mourned by family and friends.”

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Auto Parts Specialists

WILMOT AUTO SERVICE Complete Auto Repair & Maintenance

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Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00-6:00 Saturday 8:00-4:00; Sunday 9:00-2:00

Bob’s

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Paddock Lake

Spring/Summer 2017

AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Page 11

TRAVEL TIPS FOR WHEELCHAIR USERS The stress of travel can impact anyone, but add in the need to find wheelchairaccessible transportation, hotel rooms or restaurants, and that stress is amplified considerably.

The experts at Mobility Ventures, maker of the MV-1 – the only mobility vehicle built with wheelchair users in mind – are offering tips and an interactive map that highlights cities with MV-1 vehicles in their taxi and rental car fleets, to make accessible travel easier for wheelchair users and their friends and families.

“Mobility and accessibility can improve the quality of life, independence and mobility of all wheelchair users,” says Pat Kemp, executive vice president, Mobility Ventures. “Tips and resources can help lessen travel stress for people who use wheelchairs and their loved ones.”

AIR – Be sure to allow at least 90 minutes between flights to allow time to deplane – wheelchair users are always the

first to board and the last to deplane.

Protect mobility devices from damage while in flight with a cover (e.g., sleeves for wheelchair frames). If you use a removable wheelchair cushion, bring it with you on board the airplane to be sure it is not lost or damaged. If you need special assistance, inform the airline gate agent upon check-in.

TRAIN – Accessible space and seats are available on coach, business class and first class train cars. On Amtrak for example, there are two different onboard seating options for passengers traveling with wheeled mobility devices, depending on the type of device.

Amtrak also has “accessible rooms” for passengers with disabilities. These rooms are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and should be booked 14 days in advance. If you require a companion or an attendant while traveling, check for companion fare or discounted tickets.

Passengers who use oxygen equipment

can bring the equipment onboard trains with certain restrictions.

HOTELS – Look for a “guaranteed ADA” room when booking. Check the room for any barriers at check-in. A room can be ADA compliant but that does not mean that there will not be any mobility

barriers.

GROUND – Search for taxi or rental companies with wheelchair accessible vehicles. Visit mv-1.us/mv-1s-for-hire for an interactive map that highlights cities with MV-1 vehicles in their taxi and rental car (STATEPOINT) fleets.

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Travel made easy Page 12

AUTOMOTIVE CARE GUIDE

Spring/Summer 2017

As families prepare for this year’s big getaway, make sure not to leave home without the proper tech reinforcements!

These tips will ensure you can savor the sweet moments and avoid potential hiccups!

Drive smarter. Hitting the road?

Apps like Waze, a community-based traffic and navigation guide, offer immediate information and alternate routes that save time when everyone is heading out of town. Other apps, like GasBuddy, compare pricing for nearby gas stations so you can fuel up economically, making the drive convenient and worry-free.

Beat boredom en route. Even in the air, there are ways to keep the family entertained. Inflight internet services, like Gogo, allow for texting and surfing the web, so kids can keep up with their Candy Crush game and mom and dad can hop online to research travel activities. And if you are a T-Mobile customer, you get a free hour of Wi-Fi on every domestic flight. Take connectivity to the next level by plugging into a portable charger to ensure all your devices are fully charged for the duration of your flight and after you land.

Find your travel Zen. Ever been on a long train ride with an unhappy baby or snoring fellow rider? Drown out

unwelcome disruptions by turning up the volume, and streaming unlimited music from services like Spotify, Apple Music and Pandora with Music Freedom from T-Mobile.

Pro tip: Noise-cancelling headphones help too. Seek out a comfortable pair designed to fit the unique contour of your ears – they are ideal for lengthy trips.

Make the most of travel downtime. Dealing with a delay or adjusting to a different time zone?

Use the unplanned time to catch up on your favorite shows. You can stream services like Netflix, Hulu and YouTube on your phone with T-Mobile’s Binge On and not only will you get through the series cliffhanger, none of your streaming will count against your high-speed data!

Stay connected even when abroad.

Google’s 2016 travel trends show that 85 percent of leisure travelers decide on activities to do from their mobile phone after they’ve arrived at their travel destination. You can avoid roaming charges while you wander out of the country with services like Simple Global from T-Mobile. It provides unlimited data and texting in more than 140 countries around the globe.

(STATEPOINT)

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