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By NAPA
Some people have been asking, do electric cars work in cold weather? Absolutely they do! But winter driving doesn’t always mean a winter wonderland, sometimes it just means preparing for the cold. People have been link hidden, please login to viewelectric cars in cold weather for years with little or no trouble other than potentially shorter battery range. Here’s a few tips about driving an electric car in winter.
Preheat Before You Leave
One advantage to plug-in electric cars in the winter is they can use grid power before you drive. It makes far more sense to prepare for your drive while connected to grid power than use up battery range. If your electric car has the option to preheat the cabin while link hidden, please login to view take advantage of that feature. Vehicles like the link hidden, please login to view and Nissan LEAF can be toasty warm for your departure. Use seat heaters if so equipped as they are more efficient at warming the occupants directly. Once you are on the way it will take far less power to maintain a comfortable cabin than if you had started cold leaving you parking spot.
Use The Right Tires
If you live in an area where winter tires are recommended, by all means use them. Snow tires are able to stay pliable in low temperatures and typically feature a special tread design that helps grip the wintery roads.
While it is common for electric vehicles to use special low rolling resistance tires, during the winter months you want all the grip you can get. Luckily with the growing popularity of electric vehicles there are now specific link hidden, please login to view made for EVs. These EV winter tires are designed specifically to address the needs of an electric car by balancing low rolling resistance while still offering winter weather traction. Just make sure to change into winter tires before the weather shifts.
Drive Easy
If your warm driving style is already easy going to maximize battery range, driving an electric car in cold weather will be an easy transition. The roads will likely be slippery so easing into acceleration and braking will help keep things under control.
Keep in mind that most electric vehicles are fairly heavy, so there is a lot of momentum built up even under normal driving. Loads of low-end torque make for spirited driving in warmer months, but you will need to dial back the accelerator pedal in slippery conditions. If your vehicle has “ECO” mode, use it. You may have a winter/snow driving mode as well so check your owner’s manual.
Turn Off Regenerative Braking
As amazing as regenerative braking is at recouping energy and extending driving range, it can also cause problems on slippery roads. Normally when the driver lifts their foot off the accelerator pedal the regenerative braking system kicks in to help slow the vehicle. This is great in dry weather, but the braking action that recovers electricity can cause the wheel to lose grip on slick roads making for erratic handling. People driving electric cars in winter conditions need to pay attention to the road surface. If the road conditions are slippery, it is best to turn off your regenerative braking system and go back to using your trusty brake pedal.
Your Range May Vary
Depending on your vehicle, electric car battery life in cold weather will vary. If you have an older electric vehicle with less than 100 miles of range you will need to be as sparing with power as you can. Things like headlights, link hidden, please login to view, radio, seat heaters, battery heaters, fans, even power steering all take previous battery power. On the flip side, if your vehicle’s range is in the hundreds of miles and your trips around town are short, there’s no reason to skimp on the power. Of course this assumes you will recharge once you are done driving for the day.
Plan For An Emergency
This tip applies to everyone on the road, but in an electric vehicle your
link hidden, please login to viewshould include a portable 110v charger if you have one. Sure it is the slowest way to recharge, but it beats no charge at all if you are stuck at a friend’s house. Check out all the
link hidden, please login to view available on link hidden, please login to view, or trust one of our 17,000 link hidden, please login to view for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on taking care of an electric car battery in cold weather and learning more about electric cars in winter driving, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your link hidden, please login to view. The post
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By NAPA
With winter’s grasp firmly upon us, the issue of getting stuck in snow becomes more prominent in our daily lives. Whether you are just slipping a little or the wheels are buried to the axles, these 10 tips on how to get your car unstuck from snow are not only helpful, but can prove to be a lifesaver. All of these tips have been compiled through years of getting stuck ourselves.
1. Don’t Stop!
The best tip for how to get car out of snow is to not get stuck in the first place. If you are sliding off the road, headed towards a snow drift, slush pile, etc, do not stop unless you are going to end up in a dangerous situation or hit something. Your vehicle’s momentum can carry you out of the mush. The same goes for when you are stuck and get some movement. Don’t stop until you are absolutely stuck. Even a little bit of constant movement is better than just spinning the wheels. If the way in front of you is clear and you are in no danger of hitting anything, try to keep moving.
2. Don’t Spin the Wheels
When you are stuck and your tires are just spinning, stop. That is not how to get unstuck in snow. Unless you are on solid ground (concrete or asphalt), stomping the pedal and spinning the wheels is just going to make it worse. You will just end up digging a hole with the tires and possibly ending up with the chassis sitting on the ground, making getting unstuck ever harder.
3. Apply Proper Power
A little accelerator pedal finesse is one answer of how to get a car unstuck from snow. Use your throttle sparingly and in the right way. If too much power is overpowering the tires and snow, use part throttle. You would be surprised how less power might just get you out of a bad situation.
4. Shift to Low Gear
Make sure your automatic transmission is shifted into the lowest gear. For manual transmissions, you actually want to shift into a higher gear, such as 3rd or 4th, and use the clutch to control the spin. There will be less shock on the tires and you will have more control to keep the tires from spinning in the snow.
5. Turn Off Traction Control
This one might seem counter-intuitive for how to get unstuck from snow, but when you are stuck and need power to the wheels, any slipping will cut the power right when you need it.
link hidden, please login to view most of the time, but once you are stuck it can just get in the way. Push the traction control button to turn it off. Some vehicles require you to push and hold the button for several seconds. When in doubt check your owner’s manual. With this feature off you will be able to spin the tires with no interference from the onboard computer. Watch out for using too much power though (see #2). 6. Rock Back & Forth
The classic move for how to get a car unstuck by yourself is called rocking. This is a maneuver where use the engine to roll the vehicle forward, put it in reverse, roll it backward, and then shift to drive and roll forward. Doing this several times builds momentum for the vehicle, often getting it out of the rut it is stuck in. Once you are over the hump and rolling in one direction, power out of the mess until you are on solid ground. This trick is a little easier for automatic transmission owners and will take some coordination for those with a manual transmission.
7. Use Traction Devices
It is too late to add
link hidden, please login to view or cables to your tires, but you can use other items to enhance the grip of your tires. Rocks (quarter size and smaller), sand, even small branches and sticks can give you the grip you need to get out. It is a good idea to carry a bucket or bag of sand, pebbles, kitty litter, etc when you live in snow-prone areas. 8. Go Straight Ahead
Make sure your tires are pointed straight. There is considerably more stress on the tires when they are turned and plowing through the snow. This means means it is harder for the vehicle to move, and therefore easier for the tire to spin rather than get traction and push or pull the vehicle out of the mess.
9. Let Some Air Out
When you just can’t get the grip, try letting some air out of the tires. This makes a wider contact patch and can give you the necessary grip to get out. Just don’t forget to
link hidden, please login to view the tires to the proper specification as soon as possible. Until you get the tires reinflated, keep the speed down so you don’t ruin your tires. 10. Be Ready to Shovel Snow
Sometimes the answer for how to get car unstuck from snow if you just have to get down and dig. Carrying a camp
link hidden, please login to view will make this easier, but a stick, wood board, or even a plastic cup can get the snow, slush and mud out of the way. The idea here is to dig a long ramp from the tire to the flat ground instead of a deep sudden rut that you likely find yourself in. Additionally, there may be a large mass of snow under the chassis, making it difficult to move. You need to try to remove as much of this as possible. If you can’t get your car unstuck with these tips, call a tow truck for assistance. Make sure your tailpipe is clear of snow so that the exhaust fumes don’t back up into the cab of the vehicle. This is now the time to break out your
link hidden, please login to view, sit tight and wait for the cavalry. Stay safe! If you have any tips on how to get your car unstuck, please leave them in the comments section below.
Check out all the
link hidden, please login to view available on link hidden, please login to view or trust one of our 17,000 link hidden, please login to view for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to get a truck unstuck by yourself or any other vehicle, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local link hidden, please login to view. The post
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By NAPA
Get the Best of Both Worlds
Are you looking for the perfect vehicle accessory for that new driver in your life? Spread some holiday cheer by shopping the best vehicle add-ons for those who aren’t quite sure what they need! We’ll walk you through the best tips and gift ideas for car accessories as you shop NAPA’s selection of
link hidden, please login to view with Free One-Day Shipping. With an
link hidden, please login to view that can seriously enhance driving conditions, you can easily improve cabin comfort, upgrade navigation assistance and make that ride your own with personalized flair. Those who are avid vehicle modifiers probably already know what they need to round out their ride, but when it comes to first-time drivers, it’s nice to give them a nudge in the right direction. While safety always is the priority when it comes to driving success, there’s a ton of room to boost levels of comfort, functionality and preparedness while truly elevating a beginning driver’s experience on the road. The Power of Personalization link hidden, please login to view
To many, vehicles start out as a semi-blank canvas ready for customization with performance enhancers, accent pieces, electronic capability, comfort upgrades, interior protection and so much more. Gone are the days when your vehicle was simply a transportation vessel and not an extension of the driver’s personality. Now, more than ever, automotive enthusiasts and average car owners alike are flocking to the automotive accessories market to help them create their ideal vehicle beyond the manufacturer’s confines.
But when you think of ‘vehicle customization,’ you might envision outdated
link hidden, please login to view, hanging ornaments (like those fuzzy dice) or classic bumper stickers. There’s nothing inherently wrong with these add-ons, but they only scratch the surface of the vehicle accessorizing world. Nowadays, you can easily shop for and install custom-fitted link hidden, please login to view, link hidden, please login to view, link hidden, please login to view and LED add-ons that transform a commuter ride into an off-road, road tripping, beach cruiser machine. If you’re looking for practical and unbeatable upgrades, there’s no better way to level up your ride than with
link hidden, please login to view or link hidden, please login to view. Gifting a set of quality interior seat covers or floor mats are an excellent and sensible gift that’ll most definitely get used, especially by those who want to keep the investment of their ride intact. Modern Upgrades for the Beginner Car
Now, more than ever, people are demanding that their vehicles keep up with their lifestyles, which means they’re not willing to compromise when a higher standard of luxury and personalization exists! However, more likely than not, someone’s first car is not a high-end vehicle decked out in the latest electronics. They might sport an older model with an analog radio and cigarette lighters—a hand-me-down ride that’s still kicking but could use a little TLC to make it feel ‘new’ again. That gives you the perfect opportunity to gift some car accessories that bring modern touches to an old reliable machine.
While most newer vehicles come equipped with Bluetooth radio capability, some drivers still don’t know the beauty of an upgraded stereo system with clean, rich sound quality and wireless connection. If you’re shopping for someone who would appreciate a fine-tuned radio for jam-sessions or crisp voice calls, shop NAPA’s selection of
link hidden, please login to view and pick up something like the link hidden, please login to view for an affordable audio upgrade. For more tips on tech upgrades for older vehicles, check out NAPA’s article on link hidden, please login to view Safety Enhancers That Offer Function and Flair
Consider a classic
link hidden, please login to view or link hidden, please login to view for a more budget-friendly console gift. Because many drivers use smartphones as a tool for navigation, these products are vital for a hands-free driving experience.
link hidden, please login to view is another great dashboard improvement to illuminate your instrument cluster and make it easy to see at night, plus it just looks cool! There are tons of LED add-on options for link hidden, please login to view, link hidden, please login to view, link hidden, please login to view, link hidden, please login to view and more. Lighting upgrades boost safety and style, thus it is a great gift choice for new drivers who can use all the visibility they can get! Whether you’re a new driver or not, it’s always important to stay well-stocked with emergency preparedness supplies. These are not the flashiest type of accessories, but they are incredibly useful and easily hold the power to avoid an inconvenient or dangerous situation. A can of
link hidden, please login to view, link hidden, please login to view and some link hidden, please login to view are just a few essentials that you should include in link hidden, please login to view. You can’t go wrong with an assortment of affordable, stylish and functional aftermarket accessories that are sure to excite anyone about customizing their ride. There’s no better way to feel like your vehicle is all your own! Remember to shop NAPAOnline.com for some automotive holiday cheer and receive one NAPA Rewards point for every dollar you spend.
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By Counterman
The stage is set for a unique initiative from Babcox Media, in partnership with AAPEX, to shine a spotlight on today’s most dynamic performers across the vehicle care industry – individuals who, to put it simply, rock!
That’s the premise behind Vehicle Care RockStars, a brand dedicated to celebrating the vehicle care industry and the array of channels it serves. Babcox Media unveiled the platform with a special announcement and video during the keynote session of the 2022 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas.
Vehicle Care RockStars promises to honor today’s vehicle care professionals held in the highest esteem for their accomplishments, leadership, innovations – and other intangibles that distinguish their work in specific industry categories. They’re visionaries and influencers in all of the following markets:
Aftermarket Distribution & Repair Tire Dealers & Distributors Transmission Collision Repair Heavy Duty New Car Dealers Powersports, Performance Car Wash Tools & Equipment The inaugural class of RockStars will be featured throughout 2023. Honorees will be celebrated, recognized and profiled in all of Babcox Media’s brands and channels, including websites, e-newsletters, webinars, podcasts, videocasts, social media platforms and magazines.
“Let’s bring to center stage the incredible individuals of today who rock their respective vehicle care categories,” said Bill Babcox, CEO of Babcox Media. “We’re excited to debut the Vehicle Care RockStars brand that acknowledges these industry superstars –and allows them to take the bow they so richly deserve.”
Nominations officially opened Nov. 1 for the Class of 2023 Vehicle Care RockStars. The Selection Committee will be led by industry veteran Jay Burkhart and supported by the Babcox Media content team. Burkhart said, “We are excited to recognize RockStars who are moving the needle in today’s marketplace.”
To nominate a Vehicle Care RockStar, or for additional information, visit:
link hidden, please login to view. For those about to rock … Babcox Media salutes you!
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By Counterman
In spite of the skyrocketing cost of fuel, I’m still looking forward to a couple of summer road trips. While there’s nothing we can do about the prices at the pump, keeping our vehicles properly maintained can help those gallons go further.
Getting ready for a long trip is the perfect excuse (not that you really need one) for your customers to check off a number of maintenance items that can help make their time behind the wheel more enjoyable. It also can make it a little less expensive!
Many people wait until the last moment to do a “pre-trip inspection.” How many times have you had a customer tell you that they need a laundry list of items “immediately” because they’re planning on leaving for a long trip “tomorrow?”
Sometimes these requests are easy to fulfill, especially if they’re simple maintenance items. Other times, the customer really should have addressed the issue long before now! Either way, we can help in a number of ways to get them on their way safely and efficiently.
While the traditional “tune-up” is fast becoming obsolete, one of the essential items from this service is still a common sale.
Changing the engine air filter is a quick and easy way to ensure proper airflow into the engine, and that filter also is the first line of defense against dirt and other contaminants. A clogged, dirty or damaged filter also can expose the MAF sensor to contaminants that alter its signal to the PCM, which can lead to a rich condition, wasting fuel. Examination of the filter also can indicate if there are worn piston rings or a fault in the PCV system. While examining the air intake, also look for cracks or gaps in the tube between the airbox and the throttle body, which can allow unmetered air into the engine, skewing sensor readings and altering fuel efficiency.
Changing the cabin air filter not only will make the trip more comfortable, but it also can potentially lessen the strain on the HVAC system. Turning up the A/C to compensate for a clogged cabin filter can increase the load on the belt-driven compressor and therefore the engine. While you’re at it, have a look at the belt(s) too. Worn, glazed or slipping belts can cause noise, friction and even cooling-system or charging-system issues – which may leave you on the roadside rather than at your destination.
Battery condition and state-of-charge should be tested periodically, and a pre-trip inspection is a great time to offer this service to your customers. No-start conditions are inconvenient at any time, but can cause much more anxiety when you’re miles away from familiar territory or service providers.
Breakdowns become more inconvenient and time-consuming if you’re travelling to your destination on a tight schedule, or if you’ve drawn the “late-night” driving shift. If you do break down after dark, having functioning lights (especially your four-way flashers) makes you more visible to passing motorists, as well as emergency service providers like police or roadside assistance.
Lighting and visibility checks also should include topping off the washer solvent, making sure your washer nozzles and pump are functioning correctly and changing wiper blades as needed, including the rear blade (if equipped).
Fluids, filters, belts, wipers and electrical items all are tangible products, but one of the most important road-trip essentials is actually invisible … AIR! Properly inflated tires can have positive effects on fuel mileage, handling, braking and even passenger ride quality. Most of the vehicles on the road today have TPMS sensors to keep tabs on the tires, but it’s not a bad idea to get out the old-fashioned tire gauge now and then to double-check their calibration. On most vehicles, the spare tire is not TPMS-equipped, and should be checked manually for proper inflation.
If a vehicle is not equipped with a spare, verify that the on-board compressor or emergency fix-a flat is accounted for!
Speaking of inflation, the cost of the old “penny test” for tread depth has gone up to 25 cents. The old rule of thumb was that if you placed a penny into your tire tread, the top of Lincoln’s head should NOT be visible on a good tire. The distance from the edge of a penny to the top of Abe’s head equates to a tread depth of 2/32 of an inch, which is the DOT minimum before recommended replacement.
Many tire manufacturers now recommend the use of a quarter for this “test.” The top of George’s head is 4/32 from the edge of a quarter, which gives consumers a little more warning before needing to discard their current tires. I still prefer to use an actual tread-depth gauge, but pocket change still works in a pinch. Wherever the destination this summer, your customers can save money, save fuel and save time by spending a little on preventative maintenance before they pack the car and pull out of the driveway!
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