Is Shipping Your Car Across the Country a Better Choice?
Moving across the country can be an emotional and adventurous experience. There are a dozen things to consider, and transporting personal property is at the top of almost everyone’s list. Naturally, vehicles can be one of the most valuable items to bring with you when relocating to a new area.
Given that we are not wizards and do not have access to a magical flying car, we must consider more mundane alternatives like shipping or driving the vehicle. And the difficult part is determining which option is more convenient and preferred, taking into account a variety of criteria such as travel time, the distance between locations, and other aspects.
Distance between the destinations
We recommend checking the driving distance between the locations to resolve the dilemma of shipping or driving your car. Please keep in mind to calculate the actual road distance between states/cities rather than the approximate mileage between the destinations.
In addition, it can be beneficial to examine the specifics of the planned journey. Road conditions and road infrastructure, weather complications, roadside amenities are just a few of the things to think about before hitting the road.
Safety and convenience
For some people, driving across the country can be seen as an opportunity to have an exciting experience with friends or family. Though, ideal road trips are seldomly realistic. Firstly, driving long hours can cause fatigue and back strains. While hiring a vehicle shipping company allows you to avoid the risks involved with road transport accidents. The shipping company will deliver the vehicle to your location. And you would be more ensure that you and your family arrive safely.
Furthermore, logistical issues may arise if you have more than one car, which is quite common in most families. When selecting an auto transport shipping company, you can request that they coordinate the transportation of all the vehicles.
Timeframe Consideration
A road trip across the United States can take anywhere from a few days to a week. It depends whether you are planning to travel from coast to coast or if you’re driving simply between states. Meanwhile, as mentioned previously, you will also need to stop more frequently to make the trip safely if you can’t rotate shifts with another driver.
Therefore, if you have any limited timeline and commitments shortly after the travel, shipping your car across the country and flying to your final destination is the advised option.
Costs and expenses
Driving is usually assumed to be the most cost-effective way to transport a car across the country, but this isn’t always the case when considering the expenses associated with the trip.
The final cost can vary depending on the amount of time spent traveling, the number of people in the car, and other aspects. We suggest that you include not only the cost of fuel. But also the cost of road tolls, parking tickets and fees, meals and accommodation prices, vehicle maintenance, and so on.
The presumption of the damage of the wear and tear on your car must also be kept in mind. After all, a cross-country trip will add an extra thousand miles to your vehicle’s driven mileage number. Not to mention minor accidents can always happen. A reasonable chance of incurring unexpected costs remains as well. Some of the most common incidents are a flat tire or the need to tow the car along the way.
Please keep in mind that the cost of cross-country shipping is directly related to the size and weight of your vehicle, the type of insurance you select, and the rates of the auto shipping company you choose.
Thus, try to get quotes from a few different shipping companies and compare their shipping costs. Tempus Logix, with its extensive experience in car shipping, is one of the most cost-effective and secure organizations in the industry.
3 Tips for Car Shipping After an Accident
Whether you are shipping your working car or a damaged (unsalvageable) car after an accident, the first thing you want to do is look for a reliable, reputable, and affordable auto transport company. While you may find similarities between these two situations dealing with transport companies, there are some differences and tips to be aware of before hiring one to do the job.
The first thing to do after an accident
If you can get quick car shipping quotes and an online booking for operable cars, you’d need more time to ship inoperable ones. Having a call with the company representative will help you check if they provide salvage vehicle shipping and learn more about their services.
Before the pick-up day, make sure you empty all the remaining fluids and leave no personal items in it. Most importantly, you’ll need to arrange everything beforehand with your car insurance company. Only after that, contact auto transport.
Need of special equipment
Unlike most cases, the shipment of non-working cars is more than loading the car onto the track and unloading it once it has arrived at its destination. Carriers need special equipment to transport inoperable vehicles. In many cases, the forklift is the type of equipment required for loading and unloading cars that are not functioning.
Not every carrier has such equipment or a wish to deal with salvage car transportation as it requires some procedures to follow. In cases like that, they will either refuse your shipping or contract with other transport companies that provide shipping for salvage cars.
In any case, note that applying for special equipment may require some additional time due to these peculiarities.
Higher costs
Don’t be surprised to get higher service costs for shipping damaged cars. Most of the transport companies will provide you with quotes with some additional fees.
The fee depends on the necessary equipment for the shipment, the distance and locations, the size of your car, the transportation complexity, etc. All mentioned will affect cost. If your vehicle has structural damages, this may make the loading and unloading process hard as well. So be prepared for an extra charge here too.
The higher cost of shipping for inoperable cars also derives from the professionalism and experience of the drivers. The truck drivers for such equipment are specially trained and know how to deal with the damaged vehicle loading and unloading process. Sometimes the operation may be dangerous for the truck driver’s safety, so having special training and experience on forklifts or other equipment is mandatory.
To get an accurate quote from a transport company, you need to describe all of your vehicle’s details and the current condition, damaged parts, or dysfunctional systems. The representative of a car transport company will also need to learn if you still have gas in your car tank or if there is any fluid left. Also, tell them if the vehicle brakes or not.
Being as detailed as possible about the vehicle with the transport company will prevent misunderstandings. You will not get in a situation when the trucker shows up with equipment that is not helpful for your car shipment. In such cases, some companies will hold you on for some more time until the equipment is ready for it. However, other companies may charge you the whole amount or your deposit for the shipping service that didn’t happen.
In any event, the foremost thing before dealing with a vehicle shipping after an accident is finding a reliable transport company that has good ratings and expertise, like Tempus Logix. You can also contact us to get a quote or use our online calculator.
Can Someone Else Pick Up My Car in My Name?
It is hardly a minor task to move a vehicle within the city boundaries, much alone across the country, without the assistance of a professional. If you’re looking for someone to manage your car shipping from one location to another, here’s where carriers and car brokers can come into practice. Auto transport is the easiest and the most convenient way to get your car delivered to your desired destination, regardless of whether you are picking it up in person or authorizing someone else to do it for you. It’s a highly flexible service, and Tempus Logix will arrange the delivery to you or the person you’ve designated as the receiver of your possession. Following your decision to employ auto shipping, here are a few things to know once it arrives at its destination.
The Process of Picking Up a Vehicle at Its Final Destination
When shipping a car, an auto transport company provides you a schedule of delivery dates. Nevertheless, it’s essential to know that a delivery schedule is just an estimate based upon many factors, such as traffic and weather, that may impact the auto shipping duration. Plus, the carrier is likely shipping multiple cars, so that the delivery schedule may vary slightly.
Auto shipping companies might deliver your car to a terminal or their facilities, where you will be requested to come and pick it up. However, you may opt for door-to-door service and get your car delivered directly to your home. Please be informed that if your provided address isn’t safely accessible, a carrier may arrange a new pick-up location nearby.
Who Can Pick Up My Car at the Drop-Off Location?
There can be several reasons why you cannot pick up your car at the final destination. For instance, you may be unable to leave your place of work, be out of town, or perhaps not reside in the city where your vehicle should arrive. Anyhow, you can assign someone else to pick up your car, but you can arrange it only ahead of time. If you consider another guy to pick up your vehicle at the last minute, likely, a carrier won’t release your car. Be aware that if you assign someone else (other than the legal owner) to pick up your vehicle, he must have a notarized letter (plus any proof of identity) authorizing to take your car in your name. In addition, the letter should include information referring to a booking number, the full name of the assignee, and information about the car, including vehicle identification number (VIN).
What Happens if I Cannot Pick Up My Car?
If you have a change of plans in the nick of time and cannot arrange to pick up your car, an auto carrier may offer an option of storing your vehicle for additional fees. Storage fees are placed not by the shipper or auto transport broker but by a terminal company. Therefore, you would be able to retrieve your vehicle from a terminal unit only after paying the storage fee. It’s also essential to inspect your car or ask someone who you trust. It’s the only way to get compensation if your vehicle gets damaged during auto transport. Car inspection reports are initially paper-based, but today you can install a car inspection app on your device to perform a comprehensive vehicle inspection.
How Safe is Shipping a Car?
People can frequently be obliged to ship their cars due to personal reasons such as moving to another city or buying a car from another state. However, many of them also tend to hesitate and have security concerns connected with shipping their vehicles.
Their doubts are not baseless, as everyone must consider several factors and risks before making the shipment. However, shipping motor vehicles are more safe than unsafe. Annually, in the United States, tens of millions of cars are shipped, and only a tiny fraction of these transactions results in destruction. Those that do end up as such do so due to unanticipated events or ineptitude of the movers. Below, we present some tips and security rules to have for a positive shipping experience.
Choosing the Right Transportation Method
Depending on which kind of vehicle is shipped, you may research and choose the correct auto transport shipping method. The most common options are either to haul with an open or an enclosed trailer.
A covered carrier is recommended for luxury or classic cars since it offers the highest level of security for a vehicle during transit. Shipping with an enclosed car carrier means that the car is under protection from all outdoor elements. Additionally, enclosed trailers typically have lift gates for low clearance cars and have a lesser percentage of damage or theft. To prevent damage to the shipped vehicle, auto transport companies also use nylon straps or wheel nets to avoid physical damage to the car.
Meanwhile, shipping with open trailers is the most popular option for the transportation of motor vehicles. It is also safe to use, but compared to enclosed trailers, it offers less protection. Of course, this does not mean that cars transported on open trailers will reach their final destination ruined.
No one wants their car delivered with scratches, dents, or other damages. For this reason, it is crucial to pick the right logistic team for your shipment. Otherwise, in the worst-case scenario, you may wind up with a non-delivered or ravaged vehicle.
Please be aware of the risks and do thorough research before going with a particular auto transport company.
Also, please be cautious of companies that are unfamiliar with the carriers with which they operate. Some of them use old equipment, for example, utilizing weak chains to secure the shipping vehicles. Chains usually are put over a car’s axle, which can put a lot of strain on that vehicle. In addition, if chains break or come loose, they can bang against your car and damage its body.
Research Before Picking the Auto Transport Company
Because there are so many car transport agencies, countless examples of clients believing fraudulent websites or inept logistic enterprises and getting defrauded, losing money, or being deceived with the services occur all the time. The majority of them lure potential customers into paying a deposit for falsely promised shipping services.
Firstly, many prefer the traditional way of research, which is asking friends, relatives, and local dealerships for recommendations. Moreover, we also recommend checking out car forums and review websites to ensure that you choose an auto transport company that offers quality service.
In addition, it is worth mentioning that shipping companies are bound to have a license number placed in a visible place on the company’s websites. If you are unable to find the number, contact the company and request the information. You may even find the appropriate sources to check the shipper’s registered license and performance records.
Insurance Coverage and Policies
Keep in mind to always ask for the carrier’s liability insurance coverage to see if it is up to date. If an accident happens to your car during auto transport, a certificate/proof of insurance would be required. Most reputable companies possess cargo insurance worth around $1 000 000 in coverage. You may ask about the insurance policy’s inclusions and exclusions. A responsible auto transport company always addresses and discusses all the concerns, issues of their patrons during a transaction.
5 Questions You Should Ask When Hiring an Auto Transport
If you are looking to transport your vehicle nationwide using a car delivery service, you need to ask a set of questions to help you opt for the most suitable auto shipping option. Here we have made up a list of 5 FAQs you should ask when choosing an auto transportation company.
Are You an Auto Transport Company or Broker?
When speaking of auto transport, one of the primary things you need to figure out is whether the company you are prioritizing is an auto transport broker or carrier. The carrier owns a fleet of trucks that ships and delivers vehicles nationwide. Meanwhile, the auto transport brokerage offers end-to-end services as a point of contract from car shipping quote to delivery of your car. When a problem arises during auto transport, brokers are more likely to address the issues quicker and easier as they don’t just care for cars but endeavor to provide top-notch customer service.
Are you registered with US DOT?
When choosing a company to ship your car, never take anything for granted. To make sure you choose the right company to ship your vehicle, first off, you need to check whether it’s registered with the US Department of Transportation (US DOT) and has all necessary licenses. Once you get the registration number, use it for a verification purpose to get more information about the company. If the company refuses to provide the US DOT number, it’s an alarming sign indicating that you need someone else to ship your car.
Does a Company Offer a Free Shipping Quote?
In simple terms, a shipping quote is a document giving you a better idea of what freight rates and incurable surcharges you may expect from a shipping company. Taking free shipping quotes is a widespread occurrence, and if you stumble upon an auto transport company that requires a deposit to provide you a free shipping quote, it would be better to back off. Many companies offer online tools to calculate the shipping costs and get much or less accurate results. But if you
have special requests or needs or want to have a document to rely upon, it’s best to consult with the company’s representative directly.
How Much Will My Car Transport Cost?
Shipping a car from point A to point B is not a fixed price tag as it’s affected by various factors such as delivery preferences, distance & locations, shipping options, vehicle conditions & type, etc. Thus, when choosing the right company to ship your car, the price tag should not be the only thing of importance. It would be better to consider a reputable company, such as Tempus Logix, that is transparent about service costs and offers favorable vehicle shipping rates. Perhaps a vehicle is the most valuable possession after a house, thus never leaving its transportation to the whims of fate.
When will my vehicle be delivered?
Different auto transport companies have different timeframes for their delivery. It depends on whether the order is an expedited or routine one. For the fast delivery option, it might be in a matter of hours. However, several factors may cause it to take longer. Finding the right trailer for your particular requirements automobile might take some effort. Also, the drivers’ schedules, weather conditions, and difficult-to-reach areas can influence drop-off times. The same goes for standard orders as well. Typically, the timeframe is 1-6 business days from the date chosen by the customer. Car transport companies should always give their customers ETA ( Estimated Time of Arrival) and at all times inform them with a correct explanation if changes have taken place at any point.
What Is Open Auto Transport?
Tempus Logix provides this type of car shipping service as a way of transporting cars. As a standard method of transferring vehicles in bulk from one city to another and from one state to another, open truck transportation is generally considered a cost-effective service and the most common type of auto transportation nationwide. It can transport almost every kind of vehicle by either driving or towing onto the trailer. Open vehicle carriers come in various sizes.
By comparing open car transportation and closed car transportation from a financial point of view, we will notice that the first one is much more economical, and thus – more accessible. As a car shipping solution, open motor carriers can be both safe and affordable methods to try out. Another essential thing to consider is that this transportation option is often easier and quicker to organize and implement compared to closed automobile transportation. Therefore, the fast and cost- effective mode of transportation of such a trailer saves time and money.
Which Are the Main Car Hauler Types?
Single-vehicle trailers are an incredibly productive solution for the transportation of cars over short distances. They are small, and their convenience allows them to pass through narrow roads and hard access tracks. However, this type of car transporter can be relatively expensive if the travel distance is long.
Single-level Multi-car Trailers are popular with the hotshots. They carry two to five cars and are suitable for long and short distances. The loading and unloading time is less than for the third type of trailers on our list.
Two-level Multi-car Trailers are the most common types of haulers in the auto transport business. Double-decked, they are capable of transporting up to nine cars.
What Are the Advantages of Open Car Transport?
The three core advantages of open car transportation include, but not limited to:
- Being economically priced (affordable) for vehicle transportation,
- Potential for increased capacity
- Being safe and expeditious.
How Much Does Open Auto Transport Cost?
Prices depend on different factors, such as the distance, the auto transportation company you are dealing with, or the type of vehicle transported. The cost is also affected by the seasons. However, as a prevalent vehicle transportation method, open car transport is, in its essence, cost-effective. Please fill out the details about your car on our online calculator to obtain an estimate. For price inquiries, you may also write or call us.
What Is Enclosed Car Transport?
By being closed on all sides, enclosed car transport is a type of transportation that adds further protection to vehicles transported. It also makes it ideal for low- clearance cars because it has ramps that nearly level with the ground, and it generally comes with a customized hydraulic system for loading and unloading distinguished automobiles. Tempus Logix strongly recommends this option if one needs to ship a high-end car across the interstate. Furthermore, if one does not desire the vehicle to be subjected to the elements of the road, as it would be in the case of open car transport, then an enclosed car trailer is the place where one’s choice can stand on.
The weather is another significant factor to consider for what type of auto transport method to choose. If you are shipping in winter, then the enclosed carrier is a great choice. Although enclosed carriers offer comparatively higher rates than open car carriers, it is worth choosing enclosed car transportation for shipping if the aim is to avoid negative consequences caused by poor weather conditions.
Which Are the Enclosed Trailer Types?
Single-vehicle enclosed trailers are commonly used for transporting a single automobile and are best suitable for transporting sporty or luxurious cars. However, this option is well-served when used over short distances.
Single level multi-vehicle trailers accommodate two to five vehicles and are ideal for short and long distances. The loading and unloading time is faster than the enclosed multilevel multi-car haulers.
Enclosed Multilevel Multi-Car Trailers are the large enclosed carriers that make it popular for transporting up to seven cars nationwide.
Hard-sided Enclosed Trailers usually have steel and aluminum walls, providing ultimate protection to the vehicles placed inside.
Soft-sided Enclosed Trailers have specific vinyl side curtains that ensure alternative security for the cargo on the road.
What Are the Advantages of Enclosed Car Transport?
The core advantages of enclosed car transportation include, but not limited to:
- Climate control and a higher level of immobility, which ensures that the vehicle is clamped in place and will not move while the enclosed car carrier is in motion.
- Enhanced protection for expensive automobiles.
- Double safety, which means that the truck is boxed and duly closed. Therefore, there is no way to face any damage that can result from road debris or unpleasant weather conditions.
How Much Does Enclosed Auto Transport Cost?
In a general sense, choosing enclosed auto transport is more costly than the open auto transport option; however, it is valuable from many aspects of enhanced safety for precious cars. Depending on the vehicle size, type of transportation, and distance, the average cost of enclosed auto transportation is about $X.
What Happens If a Vehicle is Damaged During Transport?
It’s tough to envision our lives without our four-wheeled companion in today’s fast-paced world. One of the first things we want to bring with us is our vehicle, especially when going on vacation. If you’ve ever been in a scenario like this, you’ve probably considered moving your car. And you probably have tried to select between two options: to do it yourself or hire pros. When you examine all the car shipping benefits, picking a decision won’t be so difficult: you save time and energy and avoid tiring and often dangerous journeys. You can certainly hand over your keys to a vehicle shipping company instead.
Do Your Research!
Now that you’ve learned about the incomparable benefits of vehicle shipping businesses, it’s time to gather as much information as possible. You should check all the information before signing the contract. Choose experienced auto transportation companies that only work with insured carriers, which is undoubtedly necessary by law for them to have it. Sometimes, however, the companies fail to verify expired insurance. By the time the carrier is liable for your vehicle, your insurance policy may no longer cover it. As a result, the haulers have their mandatory insurance coverage. Feel free to inquire about the transaction’s details and obtain a shipping quote from the shipping agent.
Have You Noticed Any Damage?
But first, let’s find out what kinds of damages your vehicle might face. Scratches or dents, truck rollover, breaking of car parts, and theft are all probable damages during vehicle transportation. After you get the vehicle, thoroughly inspect all the details and compare them to the photographs taken before the delivery. Take a look at the roof and the undercarriage as well. After the external inspection, check for fluid leaks and start the automobile to ensure the engine is in good working order and there are no strange noises that could cause harm. Carriers picking up a vehicle will write a report on BOL. After delivery, you can compare any damages noticed with the record previously taken. BOL will prove and be solid evidence for your claim if anything happens to your car. It is essential to check the BOL before and after the transportation transaction.
So Which Are Your Steps?
So, when you examine your car and see newly caused damages, take some photos, especially from the same position as the one taken before delivery. Let your vehicle transportation company representative know of the mishap. They will fill out the vehicle condition report and notify the carrier to take responsibility for the insurance coverage. Examine the inspection documentation and look through all the details before signing. Before you drive your car away, double-check that a representative from the transport company has contacted the hauler. After that, you should go to your mechanic to find out the actual cost of repairing the damage. Then obtain the assessment by email or printed copy. Give all these materials to the company, which they will need to continue negotiating for your reimbursement or advise you on your claim in court. Good companies, such as Tempus Logix, will do everything in their power to help you because satisfied customers are attesters of their service.
Top 8 Cars to Drive in Hawaii
Many Americans dream of living on a tropical island and enjoy a laid-back lifestyle. Living on a small island separated from the continent, on the other hand, is very different from living on the mainland. Hawaii is one of the least stressed states in the US, where you can observe paradisiac landscapes and ease the stress of big cities. To get the most out of your stay in Hawaii and keep up with the hassle-free and relaxed life, you’ll need an automobile that fits your new way of life. If you consider relocating or just visiting Hawaii, we have made up a list of the most popular cars people prefer to drive in Hawaii.
Toyota Tacoma
This midsize pickup truck is known as one of the favorite vehicles on the island. In Hawaii, the Toyota Tacoma sells about eight to ten times quicker than in other states in the US. As one of the top cars to drive in Hawaii, a four-cylinder, V-6 engine under the hood of this monster produces more than 270-HP and over 260 pound-feet of torque. Depending on the trim levels & configurations, the price for Toyota Tacoma varies between $26,000 and $44,000. Of course, this is not a budget car, but it’s affordable enough not to drain your bank account.
Jeep Wrangler
Driving around the island in style is all about considering a Jeep Wrangler as a primary choice, especially when taking it off-road. This cube-style SUV offers optimum comfort, whether you voyage alongside the beach or try to handle the harshest terrain. However, if you look for open-air freedom, the new generation of Jeep Wrangler with a removable hardtop and doors is worth examining.
Toyota 4Runner
Ford Explorer
Next up, we have an iconic car from one of the leading manufacturers in the US – Ford Motor Company. Ford Explorer is one of the best midsize sport utility vehicles manufactured by a legendary carmaker titan. Ford Explorer pairs a 3.3-liter motor with an electric engine generating an impressive 400-HP. Usually, Explorer features a towing system with more than 5.500 pounds of towing capacity.
Nissan Frontier
Nissan Frontier is popular among enthusiasts as a hard-working pickup truck featuring a huge premium-equipped cabin. Frontier has Nissan’s legendary naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V-6 engine for a combined output of 310-HP. Featuring a high-quality stereo system and premium leather-wrapped interior, Nissan Frontier will make you feel at home across the infinite ocean.
Honda Ridgeline
Ridgeline is a top-ranked midsize pickup truck from famous Japanese carmaker Honda that combines the functionality of an off-roader and a luxury SUV. Ridgeline features a powerful 3.5-liter, I-VTEC® Direct-Injection engine that produces more than 280-HP and makes 262 lb-ft of torque. With five passenger seats and a
stunning audio system powered with more than 25 connection highlights, Honda Ridgeline will make your Hawaiian excursion a disco on the wheels.
Ford F-150
It’s not a surprise that Ford’s F-Series are one of America’s best-selling vehicles, especially the F-150, first introduced in the early 1940s. The price of this full-size pickup truck starts at around $30,000 and hits the highest price tag of $70,000 for the limited edition. As stated by the USA Today newspaper, Ford F-150 and the Toyota Tacoma were the best-selling cars to drive in Hawaii as of 2016. Starting from 2019, Ford offers F-150 in six different engine lineups, including the Power Stroke engine (diesel engines produced by Ford Motor Company).
Smart
If you are looking for a cheap-to-drive car with the most fuel efficiency, Smart is what you need to consider. Smart is a German carmaker company specializing in small-sized car production. Smart is a subsidiary of a German giant automobile manufacturer- Mercedes-Benz. The most notable thing about Smart is that it offers eco-friendly electric cars. These vehicles personify the productivity and modern ideology of the company.
Best Summer Car Care Tips
When the sun is heating up like a frying pan, it’s time for a vacation road trip. It can seem surprising, but the intense season may present difficulties in car maintenance. Stranding with a broken-down car in a remote location and waiting for a tow truck is the last thing you want to happen during your trip. Thus, before you hit the road in hot weather, run through your car maintenance checklist and make sure your vehicle is working at top-notch. We have made up a list of car care tips that may help you get your vehicle ready for your trip. Let’s check them out!
Keep The Car Engine Cool!
Engine coolant is what prevents your car’s engine from overheating. Coolant is a chemical substance, also referred to as antifreeze, that regulates the engine’s operating temperature and prevents it from overheating. If the engine coolant level in the reservoir is below or near the minimum mark, there is a considerable risk of engine overheating and warping the cylinder heads. In addition, be informed that a low level of engine coolant may be due to a coolant leak. Thus, to avoid challenges related to engine overheating, drive to maintenance service and pass a complete vehicle inspection.
Keep Tires Properly Inflated!
Many people are careless about the condition of tires when driving long trips; however, it may cause serious problems, especially in the summertime. For instance, going with underinflated tires may cause a quick overheat and blowout, resulting in early breakdown or loss of control. Therefore, we strongly advise checking the pressure in tires regularly to follow up on a manufacturer’s recommendation. To have the exact PSI for your tires, please peruse the owner’s manual.
Additionally, check your tires for uneven or excessive wear, as worn-out tires may not only make your road trip annoying but also reduce the grip on the road and lead to hydroplaning or skidding.
Five Fluids to Check
Aside from engine coolant, there are four more fluids (serving as lubricants) that you need to check periodically. Here are the most common car fluids: engine oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Please be informed that car fluids change intervals may depend on various factors, such as car model, engine type, etc. For example, many offer to change the vehicle’s brake fluid every 20,000 miles. However, don’t hurry to follow up “armchair” experts’ recommendations and firstly, check out your car owner’s manual.
Test The Car Battery
You may have heard that cold reduces the life expectancy of a car battery; meanwhile, the summer heat can do pretty much the same thing. Hot temperatures can make the battery swell as the heat activates the acids inside and causes the battery to lose its charge. So occasionally test your car battery at the nearest service center to ensure that your car engine won’t refuse to start during the intense season.
Tire Alignment
At first sight, the car wheels look as if they are perfectly straight and vertical. However, to improve the vehicle performance, car manufacturers determine some specific angles to the car wheels. If your car pulls to one side, or the wheel vibrates when driving straight, your car needs a wheel alignment. Misaligned wheels may reduce the lifespan of your tires, make you spend more money on gas and finally guarantee you an unpleasant road trip.
Bounce Tips
We all know that parking a car in the sun will result in a burning steering wheel in the end. So how to avoid burning your fingers if no parking space is available in the shade. Once you park your car, roll the steering wheel 180 degrees, and you will get a cool-to-touch top when you are back.
You don’t just need to warm up the car engine in the winter; it’s mandatory for summer as well. When you start the car engine, it takes time to get hot enough. Thus, starting the engine and driving off doesn’t allow oil to reach all motor parts. So warm up your car for at least thirty seconds before you take off.
To protect your car paint from hot temperatures and add some extra protection, you can cover your vehicle with a polish coating at the beginning of summer. You may even make the coating on your own at home using soup, beeswax, and jojoba oil.
