Drive & Ride

November 2019 Special Supplement

Keep a tune-up schedule

Where road meets rubber Tire maintenance keeps drivers safe

The importance of routine vehicle maintenance

Fuel your gasoline knowledge What is octane and should it affect drivers’ decisions at the pump?

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November 2019 •

The importance of routine vehicle maintenance O wning a car is a big responsibility.

Drivers who plan to keep their vehicles for the long haul must emphasize maintenance if they want to keep adding miles to their odometers. In fact, the automotive information site CarAdvice says that routine maintenance may be the most important thing drivers can do for their vehicles.

A vehicle needs consistent care if it is to run efficiently. Maintenance also reduces the risk of roadside breakdowns and costly repairs.

Here’s a look at some of the benefits of staying on top of maintenance.

Saves money: Even though maintenance costs money, sticking to a consistent maintenance schedule can save big bucks in the long run. For example, the cost of rotating and aligning tires is considerably less than repairing a car after a major blowout and paying for a tow and tire replacement.

affect vehicle performance, diminishing fuel economy and leading to a sluggish ride.

Identifies safety issues: Routine inspections and work performed by reputable service stations help drivers stay abreast of recalls or issues that can affect the safety of the vehicle.

Keeps compliance: Vehicles covered under manufacturer’s warranties typically need to be maintained in adherence to factoryrecommended maintenance schedules. This ensures that the vehicle is in compliance and will be covered in the event of a warranty claim.

Improves performance and efficiency: Routine maintenance includes oil changes, filter changes and fluid top-offs. Such tasks keep engines running smoothly. Ignoring this routine maintenance can put engines in jeopardy of breaking down and adversely

Maintains a maintenance record: When the time comes to sell the vehicle, having a log of routine maintenance indicates to potential buyers that the vehicle was well cared for.

Routine vehicle maintenance is important for a variety of reasons. Drivers can work with a trusted and reliable mechanic to develop a schedule that keeps their cars and trucks on the road.

Standard vehicle maintenance intervals you may want to follow

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o two automobiles are the same. So it makes sense that vehicles have different maintenance guidelines.

Such guidelines, which include recommendations regarding how frequently oil should be changed and how often tires should be rotated, are typically included in vehicle owner’s manuals. Drivers are urged to familiarize themselves with these guidelines, which can protect vehicles as well as the people inside them.

According to CarGurus®, a free internet-based automotive resource, many manufacturers adhere to the 30-60-90 schedule.

That schedule recommends everything from inspections to part replacements when vehicles

reach 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 miles. These recommendations are meant to serve as guidelines, and drivers should know that certain factors can affect how often routine maintenance should occur and when parts must be replaced. For example, harsh driving conditions can lead to excessive wear and tear that causes parts to erode long before owner’s manuals suggest they should. As a result, drivers should always speak with their mechanics during service appointments to determine if their vehicles are aging gracefully or if they need a little extra TLC. Drivers should always read their manuals for recommended service intervals. The following are some general maintenance guidelines,

courtesy of CarGurus®, that drivers can keep in mind as the miles pile up on their vehicles’ odometers.

Oil and oil filtre: Many new cars now run on synthetic oil, which tends to last between 5,000 and 10,000 miles. Older vehicles using traditional oil may need to adhere to the once-standard oil change interval of 3,000 miles. Mechanics will typically replace oil filtres with the same frequency as they replace oil.

Air filtres: Air filters generally need to be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. However, CarGurus® notes that drivers who park in dusty environments should err on the side of caution and have their air

filters replaced every 15,000 miles.

Fuel filter: Clogged fuel filtres can affect engine performance and even prevent engines from running. Fuel filters may need to be changed at 30,000-mile intervals.

Battery: A typical car battery tends to last around four or five years.

Brake pads: Worn out brake pads will make a screeching sound.

Brake pads should last around 50,000 miles, though they should be inspected at regular intervals regardless of mileage.

Brake rotors: Brake rotors can be resurfaced or replaced, and this should be done around 60,000

miles. Resurfacing can only be done once and is less expensive than a full replacement.

Hoses: Hoses crack over time, but generally do not need to be replaced until they reach the 90,000-mile mark. However, hoses should be inspected routinely, as busted hoses can cause very significant damage.

Recommended maintenance intervals are only intended to serve as guidelines. If drivers notice any changes in vehicle performance, they should consult a mechanic immediately, regardless of how many miles are on their cars or trucks.

November 2019 •

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Three potential indicators of engine trouble

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any drivers have found themselves stranded on the side of the road at one point or another. Whether the culprit is engine trouble, a flat tire or another issue, finding oneself stranded on the side of the road in need of assistance is an often helpless feeling that no one wants to experience twice.

Even drivers whose automotive clubs or insurance companies provide roadside assistance services want to avoid using such services. One way to do just that is to learn about potential indicators of engine trouble.

1. Warning lights

Vehicle warning lights exist for a reason.

According to the automotive retailer Pep Boys®, a check engine light typically illuminates when vehicle sensors detect there are issues stemming from a loss of power. This can be dangerous, and Pep Boys® recommends drivers pull over and call for a tow the moment the light comes on. In addition to check engine lights, drivers should heed warning lights referring to oil pressure and oil levels.

2. Poor gas mileage

An easy way for drivers to monitor vehicle performance is to keep gas mileage in mind.

If a vehicle suddenly feels like it’s not getting as much mileage out of a tank of gas as it used to, this might be indicative of engine

troubles. A fuel additive such as a fuel injector cleaner might be helpful because it can clean clogged fuel injectors that can affect performance and lead to poor acceleration.

However, the automotive retailer Advance Auto Parts® notes that such products are not a one-size-fits-all cure. If vehicles continue to suffer from reduced gas mileage, drivers should bring them to a mechanic for a thorough examination.

3. Jerking

Some signs of engine trouble are not as subtle as reduced gas mileage. Vehicles that begin to jerk while they’re being driven are likely suffering from some form of engine trouble. Jerking might put a scare in drivers, but it’s not necessarily the result of a major problem, even if it is one that should be addressed immediately. A jerking vehicle that stalls puts drivers, their passengers and other motorists at risk of accident, so bring this issue to the attention of your mechanic immediately. Poorly functioning spark plugs may be the culprit behind jerking, and that’s a relatively inexpensive and quick fix. However, other issues can cause jerking as well, so don’t delay in speaking with your mechanic.

Vehicles may indicate engine troubles in various ways. Drivers should contact their mechanics immediately whenever they suspect engine trouble is affecting their vehicles.

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November 2019 •

Tire maintenance keeps drivers safe

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aintaining tires is an important component of safe driving. Tires are some of the hardest working parts on a car or truck and are subjected to wear and tear every time rubber meets the road.

Tires affect many components of driving, including handling, braking and the comfort of the ride. Maintaining tires makes driving safe not only for drivers and their passengers, but also for fellow motorists.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that, in 2017, 738 fatalities occurred because of tire-related crashes. Many of those crashes were no doubt preventable, and that only highlights the importance of maintaining tires and monitoring their performance.

Poor tire maintenance can lead to premature wear and potentially result in a blowout. The automotive group AAA notes it is important to visually inspect tires as often as possible.

Drivers should look for overall tread wear.

Pay special attention to tread wear on one edge of the tires, which could indicate poor alignment. Erratic tread wear may mean tires are out of balance.

Drivers also should pay attention to how their cars drive and sounds. Unusual vibration or thumping noises suggest issues with the tires. A car that pulls in one direction also may be experiencing tire problems.

Vehicle owners should be aware of the routine maintenance steps that can keep them safe and improve the life expectancy of tires.

Tire pressure: The NHTSA says only 19 percent of consumers properly check and inflate their tires. Keeping tires properly inflated is one of the most important steps to maintaining them. Tires lose around one psi per month, and underinflated or overinflated tires can contribute to unusual wear, blowouts and even excessive fuel consumption.

Rotation: Check the owner’s manual or recommendations from the tire manufacturer, but know that most mechanics advise having tires rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.

Rotation helps distribute wear more evenly on tires.

Balancing: AAA says balancing also helps minimize uneven wear and tear. Balanced tires are achieved by using small weights attached to the wheels to limit vibration of the tire and wheels as they turn. New tires should be balanced, and tires also should be balanced after one or more is removed to repair a puncture.

Alignment: Vehicles have wheel alignment measurements that pertain to manufacturers’ specifications. Alignment that falls outside of the range can impact handling, fuel economy and tread wear. A drift or pull suggests alignment problems and should be addressed.

Vehicle owners should keep tire inspection and maintenance in mind as part of their overall car care plan.

Serving Vancouver Island since 1949 T ommy’s Auto Upholstery has been repairing cars in Victoria for 70 years. As a result, we have encountered just about every imaginable situation with vehicle interiors. This experience helps us diagnose seemingly unrelated causes and effects.

For example, it is a little known fact that a lot of new vehicles with sunroofs can develop plugged drains which can cause moisture to accumulate under the carpet. The underlay will not dry unless it is removed from the car. If this problem is not corrected mold, odour and fogged windows may occur in the vehicle.

Because of this, we regularly perform water tests to find and repair leaks - one of many ‘tricks of the trade’ we employ from knowledge gained over the years.

At Tommy’s, we provide various services for all types of upholstery – not just vehicles. We can look after all your upholstery needs including commercial, medical, dental and smaller residential furniture.

We still do custom and vintage upholstery and convertible and vinyl tops. Plus, we can modify car, truck and motorcycle seats to provide a custom fit and can add heat to enhance comfort.

Tired of looking at that duct tape repair? Come see for yourself! Tommy’s is located at 748 Princess Ave. in Victoria. Open 8-5 Monday to Friday.

Call 250-383-4981 or visit us online: tommysautoupholstery.ca

November 2019 •

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November 2019 •

What is octane and should it affect drivers’ decisions at the pump?

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nyone who has ever driven their vehicles into a filling station is no doubt familiar with the word “octane.” But few drivers may know what octane refers to and how it might affect their vehicles.

According to Kelley Blue Book®, octane is a colourless component that boils at high temperatures. Octane is added to fuels, including gasoline used in vehicles, to eliminate preignition in combustion engines. The higher the octane rating, which is a measure of a fuel’s ability to resist “knocking” or “pinging,” the less likely the fuel is going to explode unexpectedly. In fact, KBB notes that gasoline with a high octane rating can withstand more compression than gas with a low octane rating.

Did you know?

According to Digitaltrends.com, which ranked the most expensive recently made road-legal cars in the world, the most expensive car in the world is the Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita, which will set buyers back roughly $4.8 million. In ranking the cars, Digitaltrends.com ignored classic cars sold at auction and limited the list to one entrant per nameplate to prevent redundancies. The Swedish-made CCXR Trevita was developed with a new exterior manufacturers refer to as the Koenigsegg Proprietary Diamond Weave. That process involves coating carbon fibres with a diamond-dust impregnated resin, making the car one that only extremely wealthy auto enthusiasts can afford to call their own.

Only three of the vehicles were ever made, which should help lawmakers rest easy, as the 1,004 horsepower dual-supercharged V8 engine no doubt tempts drivers to push the pedal to the metal. For those who fall just short of the CCXR Trevita price tag, the Lamborghini Veneno checks in as the second most expensive car in the world. The Veneno and its 6.5-litre V12 engine can reach 60 miles per hour in under three seconds, all for the low price of just $4.5 million.

So what does this mean for the average driver when he or she arrives at the pump and has to choose between 87, 89 or 93 octane gasoline? Likely very little.

Most gasoline vehicles are designed to run on 87 octane gasoline. However, some vehicles are still designed to run on higher octane fuel, so drivers should always consult their owners’ manuals to determine which octane is best for their vehicles.

Using a lower octane fuel than the one mentioned by the vehicle manufacturer can damage the engine over time. Using a fuel with an octane rating other than the one recommended by the vehicle manufacturer may actually void the warranty. That gives drivers even greater incentive to consult their owner’s manuals

before filling up for the first time.

Drivers may wonder if using a higher octane fuel than the one recommended by their car’s manufacturer will improve performance. And in certain instances, it might. Higher octane fuel may improve performance and gas mileage and reduce carbon emissions when towing or carrying heavy loads. However, there’s typically no such benefit when driving in normal conditions.

Drivers encounter octane anytime they visit a filling station. Learning more about octane and what it does for vehicles can help drivers become more informed motorists.

Are financing rates negotiable?

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hen buying a home, buyers are often on the lookout for the most competitive interest rate they can find. Buyers may request estimates from various lenders in the hopes of finding low interest rates that can save them tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the loan. Car buyers may not know it, but similar due diligence can be performed when buying a new car. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, buyers may be able to negotiate with dealers in an effort to secure the lowest auto loan interest rate possible. The CFPB notes that, with dealer-arranged financing, dealers collect information from buyers and then forward that information to potential lenders. Those lenders then choose whether or not to finance the loan. Those that propose financing will offer a rate, referred to as the “buy rate,” to the dealer. The interest rate negotiated between the buyer and the dealer may be higher than the buy rate, as it accounts for the effort the dealer put forth in arranging the financing.

However, buyers may be able to negotiate to receive the buy rate, or least something closer to the buy rate than the dealer initially offered.

Buyers also should know that they have options other than dealer-arranged financing. Before visiting a dealership, buyers can contact banks, credit unions or other lenders to get preapproval for an auto loan. In such instances, these lenders will quote buyers an interest rate, and buyers can then compare those quoted rates with the ones they receive from dealers, ultimately choosing the best rate for them.

November 2019 •

Common end-of-lease questions and answers lease a Hyundai are typically required to return their vehicles to a Hyundai dealership.

Returning the vehicle to the dealership who initially leased you the vehicle may be the easiest way to go, especially if you want to buy the vehicle.

Should I bring my checkbook?

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easing a vehicle has its advantages.

Lessees often point to the excitement of getting a new vehicle every three years as one of the best reasons to lease.

Monthly lease payments also tend to be less expensive than monthly financing payments, allowing people without much money to put toward a new vehicle the chance to drive a new car or truck anyway.

originations rose from just over one million in 2009 to roughly 4.5 million in 2016.

Figures support the idea that more and more drivers are giving leasing a try. According to Cox Automotive, a leading auto industry research company, new vehicle lease

Can I return my car to any dealer?

Come the end of a lease, drivers new to leasing may have lots of questions regarding returning their vehicles. The following are some common end-of-lease questions and their answers.

Many lease agreements dictate that vehicles be returned to an authorized dealer of the make of the car. For example, drivers who

The benefits to buying a car in person

The initial lease agreement may list potential end-of-lease charges that could be applicable upon returning the vehicle, so drivers should be prepared to pay these fees upon turning the car in. These charges may pertain to excess wear and use, excess mileage and unpaid fees, such as parking violations or past late payments. The agreement also will note a disposition, or turn-in, fee if one applies.

Can I turn the vehicle in early?

Hyundai Motor Finance notes turning a vehicle in before a lease reaches ends could result in an early termination fee.

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What is the turn-in fee?

A turn-in fee is payable at the end of the lease if drivers do not purchase the vehicle.

Sometimes referred to as the disposition fee, the turn-in fee may be waived if drivers lease or finance a new vehicle from the same manufacturer within a certain period of time after turning in their leased automobile.

How much to buy my leased vehicle?

Some lessees may want to purchase their vehicles rather than turn them in at the end of the lease. But before doing so, they want to know how much it will cost to purchase the vehicle. This information should be included in the lease agreement and is often referred to as the “purchase option fee.”

Drivers may have many questions before returning a leased vehicle and are urged to contact a dealership or lender to get answers before their lease reaches its maturity date.

Such charges may be significant, so drivers should check to see if they apply.

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echnology has changed many things about the way people live their lives, including how they buy their cars.

Whereas trips to the dealership were once inevitable for drivers in the market for new vehicles, the internet is now littered with websites enabling users to buy new cars with the click of a mouse. But buying cars online, and often sight unseen, can be a risky proposition, and there are many reasons why buying new cars in person can benefit buyers.

More than meets the eye: One of the more widely promoted websites that “sells” cars is TrueCar.com. Television ads for TrueCar® are ubiquitous, but viewers might not realize that TrueCar.com is essentially a network of auto dealerships in which member dealerships pay to obtain buyers’ contact information. That’s important information to know for buyers who want to buy a car online so they can cut out the “middleman” (i.e., dealerships).

No surprises: Some online auto dealers promise delivery of the car. That can seem especially convenient, but it’s always in buyers’ best interest to test drive cars before buying them. That’s not always possible when buying vehicles online. While buyers may be able to return cars purchased online after they have been delivered, that can be inconvenient, negating what many feel is the single biggest benefit to buying a car

online. When buying cars they have already driven in person, buyers won’t be surprised when getting behind the wheel.

Savings: Online dealerships may market themselves as more buyer-friendly than traditional dealerships, but such claims should be taken with a grain of salt. Many can only afford to purchase new vehicles if they get a good deal on an existing trade-in.

By visiting dealerships in person, buyers can negotiate a higher trade-in value than they might be able to get online. In addition, when shopping for new cars, many buyers return to the same dealership where they purchased previous automobiles. An existing relationship with a dealer might make buyers eligible for discounts they’re unlikely to earn when buying cars online.

Convenience: Online auto dealerships often cite convenience as one of the biggest feathers in their caps. But it can be more convenient, and time-consuming, for buyers to simply walk into a dealership and ask to test drive various vehicles. Buyers who visit dealerships can test drive various vehicles in a single morning or afternoon, while those who stick to buying online may have to drive far and wide to drive more than one car in a single day.

The tradition of buying cars in person can still pay dividends for buyers accustomed to buying things online.

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November 2019 •

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