THE MATH OF PUMPING GAS

WHAT THOSE NUMBERS AT THE PUMP REALLY MEAN.

You pull up to the pump and you see the numbers, but what do they mean? Sure, your manufacturer told you which one to use, but you’re still curious as to what’s the difference between 87 and 92 octane. Hopefully, this will help.

Let’s start off with a brief discussion of how gas works in your car. Most cars use four-stroke engines. The compression stroke is where the engine compresses a cylinder-full of air and gas into a much smaller volume before igniting it with a spark plug. The amount of compression is called the compression ratio of the engine. A typical engine compression ratio is 8-to-1.

The gasoline octane rating tells you how much the fuel can be compressed before it spontaneously ignites. When gas ignites by compression rather than because of the spark from the spark plug, it causes knocking in the engine, which causes damage. Lower-octane gas (like "regular" 87-octane gasoline) can handle the least amount of compression before igniting.

The compression ratio of your engine determines the octane rating of the gas you must use in the car. In order to increase the horsepower of an engine, increase its compression ratio. In other words, the higher compression ratio the higher-octane fuel that is required. This is why they call the “high performance” engines. While higher compression rates mean higher performance and probably a little more fun behind the wheel, the disadvantage is that the gasoline for your engine costs more.

So unless your vehicle manufacturer requests a higher grade of fuel, you probably don’t need it and can save yourself a little money. Then there’s always the matter of preference. If you feel that your vehicle runs better with a higher grade of fuel, then by all means do what feels right to you. Just be sure to check with your vehicle manufacturer.

MORE CAR DRIVING. LESS GAS PUMPING.

6 Tips for Improved Fuel Economy

 Still letting high gas prices keep you from taking a road trip to your favorite destination? Why? Just following a few simple and inexpensive vehicle maintenance steps can stretch your dollar and give you more power at the pump

Fuel consumption is directly related to auto care and has a significant impact on how much gas you use.  Gas prices may rise quickly, but you no longer have to be a victim and just take it. Properly maintaining your vehicle can improve fuel economy as well as save you money.

Performing these simple maintenance tips, will improve fuel economy allowing you to spend more time on the road and less at the pump.

•       Tune-Up: Keep your car properly tuned to improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent.

•       Tire Pressure: Keep tires properly inflated and improve gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent.

•       Motor Oil: Improve gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent by using the grade of motor oil recommended by the manufacturer.

•       Air Filters: Replacing clogged air filters on older vehicles can improve fuel economy and will improve performance and acceleration on all vehicles.

•       Gas Cap: Damaged, loose or missing gas caps allow gas to vaporize into the air.

•       Fix It: Addressing a serious maintenance problem, like a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve mileage by as much as 40 percent, according to www.fueleconomy.gov.

Modifying driving habits, such as driving the speed limit and avoiding quick stops and starts, can also increase fuel efficiency. Consolidating trips, avoiding excessive idling and removing unnecessary items from the trunk are also easy ways to lower fuel consumption.

TO WAX, OR NOT TO WAX, THERE REALLY IS NO QUESTION

WHY WAXING YOUR CAR IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS WASHING IT.

Sure, many of us say that we know and understand how important it is to wash and wax our vehicles, but do we really? Do we truly understand that waxing our vehicle can not only protect the paint of the car but its resale value as well? For some reason most of us wash our vehicles, but often neglect the second step of waxing. Is it because we think it’s overly time consuming, don’t understand the value of doing so or maybe we just don’t want to. Whatever the reason, it’s time to take a look at the importance of waxing your vehicle.

Wax helps protect your car’s paint, which in turn helps protect the coating for your cars metal body. Whether it’s rain, sun, hail, or wind your car is constantly subjected to the elements. All of these elements can have damaging effects to your vehicle, which makes waxing your vehicle extremely important. It can also keep dirt from settling on your car and make it much easier.

Let’s face it. When your car looks good, you look good. Wax keeps your car looking shiny and new. With no wax on your car oxidation can occur. Oxidation is a chemical process where oxygen interacts with different elements, causing the paint on your car to become dull. No one wants his or her car to have dull, lifeless paint! A simple coat of wax can prevent this from happening because wax protects the elements on the car from reacting with oxygen.

Understanding the importance of washing and waxing your vehicle is key to keeping your car looking as good as ever. It will vastly improve the health of your vehicle over time. So go ahead. Get your vehicle washed and waxed today.

Car Camping

If you love the outdoors and want to go camping but just need a few more creature comforts, read on.  This is a happy medium, not to be confused with “glamping” or hard-core camping. It’s an easier way to enjoy the great outdoors.

Even if you like to fly by the seat of your pants, a little preparation can make your trip much more enjoyable. Do a little reconnaissance about the area so you know what’s easily available and what you must bring or do without. When deciding on a campsite, investigate what amenities they have and their guidelines for campers. 

First of all, make sure essentials like a first aid kit, several flashlights or lanterns, extra batteries, bug repellant, sunscreen, collapsible chairs, plenty of garbage bags, disposable plates, utensils and cups are packed. Headlamps are a worthy investment for light so you have both hands free to do things after dark.

If activities like hiking, biking, canoeing or horseback riding are desired, search for popular places nearby. For fun around camp, pack a Frisbee, football or fishing rods. Don’t forget the guitar and other musical instruments. In case of rain, including things like a deck of cards and games for kids and adults can really make a difference while you wait it out.

Getting a good night’s rest is important, especially if you’re going to be doing activities. Pack a mat for under your sleeping bags or better yet, a blow up mattress. Battery operated and car charger inflators are available.  Prior to departure, set up your tent and sleeping arrangements to air it out, check for potential damage or missing equipment and make sure everything fits accordingly including pillows and blankets.

A good rule of thumb for any kind of travel is to bring earplugs and an eye mask. You never can tell what kind of neighbors you may have or what unexpected noises you may experience. On that note, if playing music is something that you’ll enjoy while cooking up dinner, please be mindful that sound travels much more in open spaces, so keep it moderate for your neighbors.  Too much noise may also deter wildlife from coming around.

Cooking can often be a highlight of the trip. For others eating out is preferable. Depending on your locale, it may be a way to enjoy some of the local flavor. Either way, you’ll still want to bring other provisions. Pack twice as much water as you think you’ll need. You’ll drink half; the rest will be required for cooking, cleaning, first aid and possibly even bathing. Since you don’t have to haul it anywhere by foot, this is not an area to skimp on as water shortage can have dire consequences.

Be prepared for hefty appetites to surface with the outdoor activities. Easy things to prepare over a campfire are pasta, rice, hot dogs or Italian sausages, anything on a stick really. Some things that don’t require cooking are cereal, milk, PB & J, bread, a variety of cheeses and cold cuts.  Snacks could include anything from olives, granola bars and trail mix to candy bars, cinnamon buns and potato chips. Of course, it’s simply NOT a camping trip without making s’mores. Ice down the food and beverage coolers well before departure.

Depending on where you are, critters tend to roam, especially at night, looking to raid your food. Do not ever take food into your tent. A common misconception is keeping provisions in your vehicle is a safe solution. If you’re in bear country. they’ve been known to break in and not only will your food disappear but your car will be damaged.  Some campsites have “bear boxes”.  If they don’t, hang your food at least 10 feet off of the ground.

Some campsites will have grills in which case you’ll need charcoal and lighter fluid.  For fire pits, collecting wood should be easy enough. Come prepared with kindling in case it’s damp. Pack several lighters and matches in various locations so if one is compromised by, say, weather, the others are still useable.

No matter what you may encounter during your adventure, hopefully these tips will help make your trip much more comfortable and less daunting. Be safe and have fun!

The Rise of Electrical and Green Vehicles. What do you think?

It was prophesied by cartoons and books that in the 21 century we would now be living in a world where flying cars existed. Technology however has not caught up as quickly as believed, but significant developments have been made in the green and electrical vehicle production. The majority of the vehicles that are out on the roads are gas-powered engines. Electrical vehicles are now beginning to become more popular with many different companies. With the rise of gas prices continuously over the years the introduction of green vehicles have become more popular among consumers. The question to ask now is how successful will these electrical vehicles be in the coming years?  

From standard companies to luxury vehicles, more companies are seeing the potential and growth that can come from the development of this new market. From a business standpoint, companies are noticing the power of the green effect and how many consumers are looking for a way to cut costs in their spending. The big picture to look at is how long will it take for consumers to see the potential of these vehicles. What do you think about electrical and green vehicles and do you believe it has the potential to change the automotive industry?

Holiday Driving Tips

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” Right? Right?  Um…hello?  Ok, so maybe once the gifts are wrapped, the food is prepared and Santa has left an abundance of presents and cookie crumbs, then you can take a breather and enjoy the holiday cheer.  These next couple weeks will be hectic, we know.  It’s a great time of the year, but the stress that goes into it can be overwhelming.  There’s hope, however.  In today’s blog, we’re providing some quick tips for navigating your holiday season safely. 

1.)   If you’re going on a road trip, please make sure your car is serviced properly.  Come into our dealership anytime for oil, brake fluid and tire condition checks.

2.)   SLEEP WELL.  Get a good night’s sleep before you venture into the world.

3.)   Plan your route; this will help you in the long run.  Unsafe detours can be dangerous and expensive.

4.)   Bring a paper map.  GPS is the wave of the future, but a paper map can act as backup if you’re GPS malfunctions.

5.)   Buy snacks and drinks before you leave, because stocking up at gas stations can be costly.

6.)   Tell at least 1 family member where you’re headed.  So, if something happens, you have a reliable person to get the message out.

7.)   DO NOT announce on social media that you’re leaving for vacation.  Secure your home and leave at least one light on.  This will detract burglars from your home.

8.)   Leave early.  If the common rush hour time is 9:30, leave a couple hours early to compensate for time.

Do you have any tips to add?  Feel free!  Have a safe drive and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

SHOCK and Awe: Avoiding Shock Treatment When Exiting Your Car

We’ve all been there.  You’re casually cruising in your car, glancing over to peer at your German Shepard as he soaks in the sun from an open window.  You stop for gas and begin to exit the vehicle, and you’re greeted with a quick jolt of static electricity.  Bzzt!  In today’s blog, we’re providing you with some quick tips to avoiding the shock treatment. 

1.    Be cautious of clothing – fleeces and synthetic materials can increase your risk of shock.

2.    Grip the frame of the door to expel static charge – Having your hand on the car frame when you get up lets it discharge more slowly. 

3.    Watch your shoes – Beach shoes with foam soles are conducive to static electricity, be careful!

4.    Touch the glass – as your exit your vehicle.  This option discharges any electricity and avoids shock.

5.    Hold a key in your hand and touch the metal doorframe as you exit.  It acts as a lightning rod and discharges the static without pain.

Static shock may seem like a minor issue for the average driver, but these tips are actually meant for your safety.  Static electricity has the capacity to cause small explosions at the gas pump.  You should NEVER re-enter your car while gassing up, as this could provide MORE static electricity build up.  If you have another tip for us, please comment below!