Why You Should Always Remove Ice From Your Car’s Wheel Wells
Winter can bring some beautiful scenery, but it also ushers in some challenges with vehicle maintenance. While clearing snow and ice off your windshield is obvious, many drivers do not understand the importance of removing ice buildup under the car. Be sure to knock off ice and slush from your wheel well next time you get in your car, or else you can be dealing with the following issues.
Dangers of Ice Buildup
Dangers of Ice Buildup
- Brake Malfunctions - Braking systems are the most essential part of your vehicle, and if they are not in the best shape then your risk of a potential collision skyrockets. Frozen or wet braking components can reduce your braking time by seconds, which could have devastating consequences.
- Wheel Well Freeze-Ups - If left unattended for an extended period, the accumulated snow and slush...
How to Prevent Windshield Wipers From Leaving Streaks
Every Illinois driver is familiar with the frustration of clearing their windshield in the morning, only to find streaks appearing when they turn on the windshield wiper blades. These streaks are not merely irritating; they can pose a safety hazard by obstructing visibility. To prevent windshield wipers from streaking, it's essential to follow these instructions and take your time when removing ice and snow from your windshield.
Tips for Achieving Streak-Free Windshields:
1. Regular Wiper Check:
Ice and snow aren't the only elements your wiper arms contend with. Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate during heavy snowfall, causing damage to the rubber over time. Therefore, it's crucial to regularly inspect your blades for any cracks or nicks.
2. Clean Your Windshield:
While wiper fluid can help...
Tips for Achieving Streak-Free Windshields:
1. Regular Wiper Check:
Ice and snow aren't the only elements your wiper arms contend with. Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate during heavy snowfall, causing damage to the rubber over time. Therefore, it's crucial to regularly inspect your blades for any cracks or nicks.
2. Clean Your Windshield:
While wiper fluid can help...
What Does Adaptive Cruise Control on Cars Do?
Just like everyone else, the automotive industry has been thriving in the past decade thanks to the rapid development of technology. Safety and comfort features have been expanded and created at such a rapid pace, that it can be difficult to understand what each feature does. Today we wanted to cover one of the best developments, the adaptive cruise control system.
Beware the Dangers of Potholes and the Damage They Cause
Potholes are the bane of every driver’s existence, as we all have a story about one appearing suddenly and that heart-stopping moment where you are waiting for your vehicle to make contact with the road again. When you hit a pothole, there can be devastating damage to your vehicle that will require immediate attention.
Help The Planet With These Eco-Friendly Driving Tips
Climate change is one of the largest issues facing society today, and even though it may seem minute, the average person can absolutely make a difference. Electric vehicles (EVs) have become popular for this reason, but there are ways for gas vehicles to sustain a respectable fuel consumption level. Below are some of these eco-driving tips that can help lower your fuel costs and make your vehicle more environmentally friendly.
Eco Driving Habits
Eco Driving Habits
- Regular Maintenance - You can improve fuel efficiency by getting your vehicle regularly maintained. A regular check on tire pressure, oil change, and inspection will keep your vehicle in good condition for many years to come.
- Avoid Aggressive Driving - Speeding and harsh braking can end up burning more fuel by up to 30%. Instead, obeying highway s...
What Features Make the Best Winter Vehicles
Illinois winters can be difficult to deal with, which is why it is crucial to have a vehicle that can stand up to the snow and ice. The best winter vehicles tend to have similar characteristics, both in their capabilities and the amount of comfort they provide to occupants. If you are searching for a new vehicle to buy ahead of the deep snow, then take these factors into consideration.
Best Winter Features
Best Winter Features
- Enhanced Visibility - Adaptive headlights and dynamic cornering headlights allow other drivers to see you easily in snowy conditions, reducing the risk of collision. Heated mirrors and windshields also help battle frost build-up and keep your eyesight clear.
- AWD Systems - Ice and snow build-up can trap stationary vehicles and cause some to slip off the road. An All-wheel drive system main...
The Dangers of Over Inflated Tires
Your car's tires might not be the first thing on your mind when it comes to vehicle maintenance, but they play a crucial role in your safety, fuel efficiency, and overall driving experience. Neglecting to keep your tires properly inflated can lead to a variety of issues, including blowouts. This makes it essential to understand why incorrect tire inflation can adversely affect your vehicle.
Safety First:
One of the primary reasons to ensure your car's tires are adequately inflated is safety. Properly inflated tires provide better traction, handling, and stability, especially during poor weather conditions. Underinflated tires increase the risk of accidents as they can cause loss of control, longer stopping distances, and even blowouts.
On the other hand, over-inflated tires can lead to a hars...
Safety First:
One of the primary reasons to ensure your car's tires are adequately inflated is safety. Properly inflated tires provide better traction, handling, and stability, especially during poor weather conditions. Underinflated tires increase the risk of accidents as they can cause loss of control, longer stopping distances, and even blowouts.
On the other hand, over-inflated tires can lead to a hars...
History of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Part 2
We have previously discussed the creation and first two generations of the titular Mazda MX-5 Miata. Now we will cover the most recent generations, as well as where Mazda may be taking their most popular historic vehicle in the future. The Miata has seen some relatively large changes in the past, and the third generation of the Mazda Miata had a widebody design that provided slightly more room in the cabin.
Third Generation of the Miata
The 2006 model year marked the beginning of the Miata’s third generation, with a modern design and many amenities such as a power retractable hardtop option coming a year later. This was fantastic for people who were frustrated with the Mazda Miata’s seat covers or soft top being manually retracted and deployed. This retractable roof was a major success, as ...
Third Generation of the Miata
The 2006 model year marked the beginning of the Miata’s third generation, with a modern design and many amenities such as a power retractable hardtop option coming a year later. This was fantastic for people who were frustrated with the Mazda Miata’s seat covers or soft top being manually retracted and deployed. This retractable roof was a major success, as ...
History of the Mazda Miata Part 1
Arguably the most recognized and important vehicle in the history of Mazda automotive manufacturing, the Mazda Miata has long held a place in pop culture and on American roads. First debuting at the Chicago Auto Show of 1989, the MX-5 Miata has undergone a few evolutions to bring it to its modern standing. The most popular roadster in history is still going strong after thirty years, and we are here to celebrate the spectacular Miata.
Introduction of the Miata
Designed by an American engineer, the most famous features of the first Mazda Miata are the pop-up headlights and convertible roof. The Mazda MX-5 Miata’s first iteration followed the classic British design, with the engine in front and rear-wheel drive. The unique front fascia of the Miata and its zippy handling made it a triumphant s...
Introduction of the Miata
Designed by an American engineer, the most famous features of the first Mazda Miata are the pop-up headlights and convertible roof. The Mazda MX-5 Miata’s first iteration followed the classic British design, with the engine in front and rear-wheel drive. The unique front fascia of the Miata and its zippy handling made it a triumphant s...
How to Plan the Perfect Couples Road Trip
Getting ready for a big trip with your significant other, but want to make sure that the ride is relaxing and as stress-free as possible? Being on the same page is vital, as with all things in a relationship, but especially when traveling long distances. We have accumulated a handful of helpful tips to make sure your next road trip is comfortable.
Road Trip Essentials for Couples
Road Trip Essentials for Couples
- Communication - If there is any argument or strife between you both, make sure to settle it before driving, because being locked in the car while upset for multiple hours can cause major tensions to rise. It is also important to settle debates like who drives beforehand and make a mental note to avoid any touchy subjects that could lead to conflict. Another clear topic to avoid is your opinion about the other perso...
Best New Luxury Car Items and Features
Thanks to modern technology and production, vehicles being manufactured today have a whole suite of amenities. Luxury items like heated seats used to be rare and expensive additions to vehicles, but now can be found in most base models. We wanted to go over some of the best modern luxury features that you can find on new Mazda vehicles.
Fantastic Features
Fantastic Features
- Remote Start/Stop: In the hot summer heat or frigid mornings of the winter, it is nice to know that your vehicle is set to the perfect temperature. With a remote engine start, you only have to bare the nasty temperature for the short walk to your vehicle, as the climate control will have been cooling/heating the interior while you were indoors.
- Mobile Phone Integration: After the initial setup of your Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, your Ma...
Best Smartphone Apps for Car Owners
Modern vehicle owners have a wide range of resources available to them when it comes to mobile apps. Many vehicles produced in the last few years have seamless connections with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to sync as soon as you enter the vehicle. If you want to know which apps you should be using to monitor your vehicle health, find great gas prices, or even parking, then keep reading.
Best Car Apps for Your Vehicle
Best Car Apps for Your Vehicle
- Roadtrippers - Avoid boring road trips by mapping out the most interesting and beautiful routes. This navigation app helps you find scenic destinations and really make the best of your journey.
- GasBuddy - Save money on gas by using this app to find the best prices and most convenient locations on your drive.
- SpotHero - Need to find a spot in the city? With Spo...