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By Counterman
The winter registration deadline for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) testing and recertification is March 31.
Those service professionals
link hidden, please login to view by the deadline will have 90 days to schedule an appointment to take their selected ASE tests. ASE now offers three options for taking certification or recertification tests:
link hidden, please login to view is available throughout the year and is conducted days, nights and weekends at more than 450 secured, proctored Prometric test centers. Those with unexpired automobile certifications (A1-A9) can use the link hidden, please login to view for recertification. ASE also offers link hidden, please login to view as an online recertification solution for all ASE recertifications tests, excluding L1 and L2 tests. To register and select an available option to take selected ASE certification tests, visit
link hidden, please login to view by March 31, click on register and sign-in. Once logged in, users can next click on “orders” and then “store” where they can find the tests they want to take, add those tests to the cart, check out and registration is complete. For assistance from ASE customer service, call 800-390-6789. The post
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By NAPA
Get the Hookup on Vehicle Winches
When you feel that tug, that tight pull on the line, it is critical to reel in the prize without snapping or snagging your expensive recovery gear. For off-road enthusiasts, the most important aftermarket accessory is a
link hidden, please login to view designed for their exact recovery needs and that will grip tightly and never let go. A good vehicle winch is engineered to pull your ride out of monstrous ruts on mudding trails, guide you across shifting sand in no man’s land or even flip your lifted Jeep upright after a failed rock climb. Whether your precarious situation is sticky muck or slick wet rock, the NAPA experts are here to get you out of a jam with this shopping guide. An easily transportable, versatile option, such as the
link hidden, please login to view, is a great addition to any boat, ATV, 4-wheeler or snowmobile. This on-the-go winch includes a solid steel base plate and a pulley block with a 4,000-pound direct line pull. This critical equipment also contains D-shackles, straps, a power cord, quick-connect battery cables, a handheld remote and a pair of leather winching gloves. Getting ready for a big haul? Check out the link hidden, please login to view from the only manufacturer producing winches specifically for trailers. A motorized cable system can provide a variety of recovery, safety and utility applications that will pull your crew through without getting ‘stuck.’ Not only can an automotive winch help you clear large fallen limbs from your favorite trail, it can also pull your vehicle out of a snow embankment when anchored to a sturdy tree trunk. For this and more, go with the capability of a front bumper mounted winch stationed in a multi-mount winch frame like this
link hidden, please login to view. Nothing beats the impressive appearance and “I’ve got this” attitude that a winch mounted to the front bumper of an off-road monster delivers. Also, check out the link hidden, please login to view. Its appealing low-profile appearance constructed from laser-cut stamped steel includes tapering at the endpoints to accommodate extra-large tires. You Need a Jeep, SUV or Truck Winch That Works for You link hidden, please login to view
When shopping for a vehicle winch, you need a reliable, strong motor and tough, solid gears. Compare the three models of the
link hidden, please login to view to pair with your two-door Jeep, deluxe SUV or 1-ton pickup truck. This entire Warn winch series includes a powerful series-wound motor and planetary gear train that delivers supreme line speed with a low amp draw. The most important consideration when choosing an automotive winch is that it is rated to pull double the weight of your vehicle, including any customizations and standard cargo. The NAPA experts say to always go larger than the pulling strength you think you will need. The compact, budget-friendly
link hidden, please login to view series offers up to a 4,000-pound weight capacity for small recreational vehicles used in hunting or landscaping, while the link hidden, please login to view series delivers up to a 12,500-pound pull rating for heavy-duty vehicles, without sacrificing torque or control. You should ensure your aftermarket investment is fabricated to withstand extreme weather conditions in any climate. Check that your new Jeep, SUV or truck winch includes a rated or sealed waterproof motor housing like the
link hidden, please login to view, which is rated IP68 water-resistant and finished with a black powder coat and stainless steel fasteners for ultimate corrosion protection. Plus, the electrical components are covered by a 3-Year Warranty, while the mechanical components are covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Heat and abrasion resistance is another important factor to consider when shopping for a bumper-mounted winch. The
link hidden, please login to view incorporates 100 feet of galvanized aircraft cable and connections reinforced with fiberglass polymer sheaths. This built-to-last winch is also engineered with a popular safety feature: automatic load-holding brakes. An automatic brake on a winch averts accidents by preventing a heavy load from ‘running away.’ When the system is overloaded, the dynamic brake engages to slow down or stop the drum’s rotation to prevent damage to your equipment. link hidden, please login to view. Don’t Leave Home Without These Winch Accessories link hidden, please login to view
Operating a fully automated bumper-mounted winch is draining, so it is vital to confirm that your vehicle’s electrical system can take on the challenge. Most recovery systems rely on the
link hidden, please login to view, which can become overheated or run out of charge from too much winching. The entire point is not to get stranded in the backcountry! NAPA experts highly recommend upgrading to a deep-cycle battery, which is designed to discharge of capacity with no long-term issues. Read the product details on this maintenance-free link hidden, please login to view engineered to handle harsh vibrations. Many of the winches for Jeeps, trucks and SUVs in the NAPAonline catalog allow you to choose a
link hidden, please login to view. A synthetic rope is bendable, stretchable, lighter and more manageable around obstacles. However, they are very susceptible to damage from UV exposure, chemicals and abrasion. In comparison, a steel cable is constructed for durability in rocky environments and sturdiness in emergency situations. Know that steel cable can fray or break under certain conditions though, so always monitor the cable and lead plus wear safety gloves when winching. A safe, yet effective, distance is also a measured factor when selecting a winch. If your cable is too long, then the force of your winch is cut short when used at close range. Yet, going too short might hinder the positioning you need or not extend across a vast space. The most common length is 100 feet. You will also want to confirm before purchasing a winch that it has a
link hidden, please login to view. This advanced safety feature allows you to operate the system from a safe distance or even from inside the cabin of your vehicle. Whatever obstacle lies in your path, NAPA has the solution for you. Browse our vehicle winches engineered for heavy-duty commercial and industrial applications, such as the 15,000-pound capacity
link hidden, please login to view or the link hidden, please login to view. Before finishing your purchase, remember to add a few link hidden, please login to view, including a tree trunk protector, tow strap, shackles, pulley block and gloves from popular brands like link hidden, please login to view, link hidden, please login to view and link hidden, please login to view. Photo courtesy of
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By NAPA
Why Do Car Batteries Die in the Cold?
It happens every year: the days get shorter, the nights get longer and we bundle up and prepare for the long, cold months ahead. When it comes to automotive issues, winter is sometimes an especially challenging time. When the mercury drops, it can
link hidden, please login to view on the complex systems and parts under the hood of your vehicle. If you drive a car, truck or SUV with a traditional internal combustion engine, the battery in your ride is particularly vulnerable in lower temperatures. Most vehicle batteries are 12-volts, and they consist of six cells. Each cell houses two plates—one made of lead, the other of lead dioxide. The plates are submerged in sulfuric acid, which acts as a catalyst, causing a chemical reaction between the plates producing about two volts of energy per cell. With six cells, you get twelve volts of power.
Your battery may start acting up when the temperature drops, so check out these
link hidden, please login to view. The chemicals inside the battery move slower at lower temperatures, putting stress on the battery and making it difficult to provide sufficient starting power to your vehicle. If you park your vehicle outdoors, you may notice a significant decrease in battery power if the temperature dips below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, especially if your battery is older than three years and you don’t plan on starting your vehicle for several days or weeks at a time. Let’s face it: vehicle batteries are expensive, and the added stress of cold temperatures can shorten their lifespan. To prolong battery life and save cash, it’s a good idea to invest in a
link hidden, please login to view or disconnect and safely store your vehicle battery indoors. Car battery winter storage is also a great way to maintain the units of your favorite outdoor toys, such as boats, ATVs or link hidden, please login to view. Let the experts at the NAPA Network help you save money and get the most out of your vehicle battery by safely disconnecting and storing it this winter. Disconnecting a Car Battery for Storage
So, you decided to disconnect your car battery for storage this winter. Great idea! Troubleshooting battery problems in cold weather is a headache, but it can also lessen the overall life of your battery, costing you a lot of money in the long run. If you park your vehicle outdoors or in a garage with minimal insulation, it’s a good idea to remove and store the vehicle battery if you don’t plan on driving it more than once every two weeks during the winter.
First, you need to safely disconnect your vehicle’s battery. Before you begin, make sure you’re using
link hidden, please login to view and insulated link hidden, please login to view. You’ll also need a link hidden, please login to view that fits the bolts of your battery—your owner’s manual should have this information available. Turn off your vehicle. Never attempt to disconnect your battery with the engine running. With the engine off, locate the terminals of your vehicle battery. They may have black and red caps on them, black for negative and red for positive. The negative terminal is labeled with a negative symbol and the positive terminal is labeled with a positive symbol. Remove the plastic caps and locate the negative terminal. Using the wrench, loosen the nut and bolt, then remove the connector cable from the terminal. Repeat this process with the positive terminal. Now you’re ready to safely remove and store your battery!
Car Battery Storage for Winter link hidden, please login to view
The battery is a vital component of your vehicle, but it is also sometimes a volatile one. The chemicals that provide the crucial reaction that powers your vehicle and its systems are extremely caustic and dangerous. Neglecting proper car battery storage for winter can cause significant damage to your battery and anything nearby, so let NAPA Auto Parts help you plan for properly storing your battery.
Before you store it, take the time to carefully clean any
link hidden, please login to view and out of the battery tray. Ideally, you should store your battery indoors in a dry, temperature-controlled area like a closet or utility pantry. Always store your battery in a link hidden, please login to view and keep it on a low shelf above the cold cement floors or carpets to avoid static discharges. If you’re storing your battery in an area with minimal temperature control like a garage or shed, equip the space with link hidden, please login to view to ensure the battery storage box stays level and away from any moisture that might collect on the ground. Never store a vehicle battery on a high shelf above your head. Make sure to routinely check the batteries while in storage to ensure no fluids are leaking and top off any fluids that have evaporated. While some drivers want to disconnect and store their vehicle batteries, others may not have the time or a good space to store them. Fortunately, NAPA Auto Parts offers a great selection of battery maintainers, battery conditioners and trickle chargers. These low-profile devices not only charge and maintain your vehicle battery while not in use, but they also help break down any buildup of sulfur crystals on the plates.
Don’t let Old Man Winter’s plummeting temperatures send your battery to an early grave! Shop NAPA Auto Parts for car battery winter storage solutions. Now you can choose to stay out of the cold and take advantage of our
link hidden, please login to view. After you checkout online, select “Deliver From Store” and add your delivery address (must reside within 5 miles of the servicing NAPA Store). The store will notify you when your order is out for delivery, it’s that simple! Photo courtesy of
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By NAPA
Tread Carefully! It’s a Slippery Slope
If you live in an icy climate, you know the danger that comes with venturing onto roads layered with snow and sleet. Any slippery surface like that requires superior traction to maintain a sense of control. Without proper handling of your vehicle, you’re raising the risk of an accident, getting stranded and ruining the underbelly of your vehicle. That’s why it’s always important to have a
link hidden, please login to view. No matter if you feel confident trekking snowy terrain, loss of tire traction can result from a lot of things, including worn tires, hurried acceleration and climbing steep hills that cause wheels to spin. Even in climates where it isn’t the norm, having the right gear to handle those one-off snow days is critical! That’s when tire snow chains come in handy. Rather than investing in costly
link hidden, please login to view for your vehicle, link hidden, please login to view are a budget-friendly solution that improves the grip your tires have on ice and snow. These are chain systems help dig into packed snow and icy surfaces with spiked grip, improving the traction of your vehicle so you aren’t prone to skidding. Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution link hidden, please login to view
Before you get started, you’ll want to know the right kind and amount of snow tire chains needed for your specific vehicle. It’s also important to check the legal restrictions of tire chain use as some states don’t allow them. Clearance heights and material restrictions also apply to certain vehicles. If you need a refresher on your specific needs, check your owner’s manual for details.
Once you’ve read up on OEM requirements and sizing, the next step is to look for chains that fit your application. For example, if you’re dealing with more icy conditions than snow, you want to look for chains that feature spiked ends, studs or “icebreakers” that can properly grip the slick surface. There are also
link hidden, please login to view designed with large, square links that are a bit more rounded, giving you a smoother ride over packed snow. You should also know chains aren’t the only option out there, but they work well for moderately snowy climates. There are also
link hidden, please login to view, which are long pieces of metal cables wrapped in plastic that are ideal for occasional use. They’re typically cheaper, easier to install and allow for higher speeds, but they’re not as durable as chains. We outline the differences in link hidden, please login to view so can narrow down the options for a better lifestyle fit. Survive Snowpocalypse with NAPA
For most snow drivers, chains are the happy medium. However, installing chains and pulling them apart is a process you’ll have to familiarize yourself with before you can use them without damaging your vehicle or road. You’ll need to drive slower than usual and always make sure to pull over and remove the chains when not directly driving over packed snow or ice. Using snow chains over bare pavement or gravel can result in serious damage to your tires and the road itself. For a more in-depth look into how you should incorporate tire chains into your gear collection, check out
link hidden, please login to view Depending on your vehicle’s build and the amount of snow you’re dealing with on a regular basis, your best tool for combatting snow chaos might look different than that of your neighbor. What’s most important is that you stay prepared for the days when you can’t stay indoors and hide from the blistering cold weather. Using traction-enhancing devices to stabilize your vehicle is the key to calm, collected snow driving. Let the friendly NAPA folks help you choose the best tire chains for snow or ice by shopping our selection of
link hidden, please login to view. If you still aren’t sure of the right fit, stop by your link hidden, please login to view to get expert guidance on vehicle-specific parts, tools and more. Photo courtesy of
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By NAPA
Finding a Mode for Every Mood and Move You Make
Driving mode controls are a relatively new technology leveraged to offer you the best, most personalized driving experience possible. Access to mode controls and select traction systems has revolutionized the market of available vehicles that respond to performance cues. Driving modes include flexible ways to improve towing capability, fuel efficiency and controls for weather conditions like sleet, ice, wind and snow.
For example, Tow / Haul mode allows the transmission to hold gears longer when engaged. This protects the transmission from damage caused by towing heavy objects at low RPMs. It also makes it easier to drive up steep terrain while pulling.
Modern automobile manufacturers have engineered ways to stylize your driving preference using various systems. Each driving mode option serves a specific purpose for when, where and how you drive. Every mode choice improves your vehicle’s performance in a specific area and works to adjust the steering throttle and engine control functions that respond to road conditions.
Modes of driving include:
Economy / Tour Comfort Smart / EV Only Off-Road All-Terrain All-Weather Snow Mode Tow Mode Sport or Sport+ V-Max +R (Track Mode/Racing Mode) Leveraging your
link hidden, please login to view, traction system and desired reaction to road conditions is paramount to comfortable driving. You can switch on any driving mode at any time, even while in motion. Sophisticated electronic vehicle systems allow you to master seasonal driving changes and can even keep you safe in harsh conditions. The Snow and Ice drive mode feature improves performance across slick road conditions by altering your pedal map and torque response.
link hidden, please login to view saves on fuel consumption costs by adjusting how the engine and link hidden, please login to view function together. This can decrease your vehicle’s power output, which protects the environment and improves your miles per gallon. Transform Your Driving Experience link hidden, please login to view
As you explore customizing your driving style, you’ll discover that several driving modes will improve your experience on the road. Personalizing your commuter sedan, hard-working pickup truck or deluxe SUV is more accessible than ever. In-demand driving mode technology allows you to ride in luxury or rule the road. With features like automatic engine starting and advanced all-wheel drive toggles, performance tech is at your fingertips.
Driving modes have transformed drive time into fun, tailored experiences that can change from circumstance to circumstance. Although some vehicles only have a few options, others feature nearly a dozen or more choices. Switching between driving modes is more commonly included in newer model cars, trucks and SUVs.
Depending on your vehicle, you have several performance settings to navigate from like Snow, Ice, Mud, Sand, Towing and Steep Terrain. Add to that list racetrack settings and velocity boosting elements. Keep in mind, the various modes might have different names depending on your vehicle’s make and model.
For example, Tour mode is in line with Eco mode. At the same time, you can use the Terrain mode on low speed through mountainous terrain, but it is also good for pulling boats out of the water, launching a boat and mild off-roading adventures. This is similar to Off-Roading mode, which improves your traction when the surface below your vehicle is less than ideal.
When the Sport or Track mode is activated, you can tighten the front seat side bolsters. Depending on your vehicle, the active exhaust will open, and the car won’t cut power when you go sideways due to all traction-related systems turning off temporarily. Sport modes are so much fun to try, but you should only test them on a safe, open track with an experienced driver at the wheel. Sport mode variants can also include the ability to stiffen the suspension, which reduces the car’s traction.
In general, the road condition options like Mud, Sand, Snow and Rock modes are for specified situations and terrains. While in Sand mode, your ride might have an extra sensitive throttle control to allow for more wheel slip so you can maintain momentum as you drive. Rock mode will adjust the traction control system to dampen the throttle response, letting you experience a less bumpy ride. This usually requires you to select a low-range setting for activation.
On most vehicles, the driving mode is connected to the engine control module (ECU) to control the engine, transmission,
link hidden, please login to view and brakes. This offers power maps for different driving conditions. Each mode alters engine functions to suit your choice, and you can pick the mode you prefer as you commute. Modern Vehicle Technology Supported by NAPA
Smart system-wide support birthed a new driving experience where you can develop on-road skills, making it safer and more fun to cruise the streets. Take the variations in Sport mode, for example, which enable that car, truck or SUV to react sharply and in style.
Adjusting driving dynamics is an automatic function in some vehicles. Imagine commuting across the country and going from sandy terrain into a mountainous snow range. Now, picture your vehicle automatically toggling between your vehicle’s ideal driving mode based on your preferences, road conditions and weather. Won’t it be thrilling to drive on cruise control, and your ride automatically switch from Comfort or Economy into sport mode when you hit the open, backcountry pavement?
In part, driving modes have improved all-season driving safety by eliminating common driving issues using advanced sensors that predict the road. Extra safety is paramount when driving in winter conditions, and Snow / Ice and Rain mode can significantly reinforce your traction. Snow mode is known for dialing back your throttle response, increasing the stability of your traction control system and reducing wheel spin.
Different road conditions and your own brand of driving contribute to your vehicle’s unique characteristics; therefore, you must investigate to choose the best driving mode for you. Browse through all the
link hidden, please login to view that NAPAOnline.com offers for improving your Sport mode. For advice and expert tips from our technicians on enhancing your ride, visit one of link hidden, please login to view. The next time you drive, play with the different modes and see how you and your vehicle respond. Featured image courtesy of
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