VROOM

2019 FALL
car Care
GUIDE
Friday, October 18, 2019 www.cadillacnews.com  cadillac news | Trusted. Local. Connected V1

Reduce distractions behind the wheel

Despite the fact that automobiles are
now designed with more safety features
than ever before, the rate of traffic acci-
dents and fatalities continue to rise.
The National Safety Council says safety
improvement like crash-avoidance tech-
nology hasn’t reduced accidents, and driv-
er error is still to blame for many crashes
— with distractions behind the wheel and
impaired driving leading the way.
The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration says distracted driv-
ing claimed 3,450 lives in 2016 alone.
Distracted driving is defined as any activ-
ity that diverts drivers’ attention from
the road. This can include everything
from talking to passengers to eating to
fiddling with the car radio. However, dis-
tractions from technology have become
especially alarming, particularly texting
or reading phones while driving. During
daylight hours, approximately 481,000
drivers typically use cell phones while driv-
ing. The NHTSA says that removing one’s
eyes from the road for a mere 5 seconds
when traveling at 55 miles per hour is like
driving the length of a football field with
your eyes closed.
Reducing distractions should be a prior-
ity for all drivers. Here are some sugges-
tions, courtesy of Geico insurance and
AAA Exchange.
• Store loose gear and other items that
can roll around away from the driver’s
seat so you are not tempted to reach
for them.
• Adjust mirrors, GPS maps, climate con-
trols, music, and more before you put
the car in drive.
• Use a mobile phone only for emergency
purposes and only after pulling over to
the side of the road. Avoid social conver-
sations on the phone while driving.
• Limit the number of passengers you
allow inside your car. The more pas-
sengers, the more distractions. This is
especially true for young drivers. If you must use your cell phone, do so only after
• Eat food before getting in the car. pulling over to the shoulder or into a rest stop.
Snacking while driving makes you less
attentive to the road around you. car. Leave the multitasking to when Driving requires focus and an ability to
• Secure children and pets accordingly. you’re not behind the wheel. react to a host of potential circumstances.
Both should wear harnesses and not be Geico indicates that studies have shown Distractions compromise drivers’ ability to
given free reign to roam around the car. people are limited in the amount of infor- focus. Reducing distractions can consid-
• Try to focus only on driving while in the mation they can process at any one time. erably cut down on the number of motor

Safety features that may help you

save money on auto insurance
Vehicles with high safety ratings may ment on vehicles manufactured since running lights may make drivers eli-
not only save drivers’ lives in the event of 2012. gible for small discounts.
collisions, but they also may save them • Air bags: These safety features help • Electronic stability control:
money. As an incentive for buying cars cushion the blow for people during This prevents vehicles from skidding
with various safety features, many insur- a crash and include front and side- out or rolling over during hard turns.
ance companies offer deep discounts to protection. Discounts increase with the • Lane departure warnings: These
drivers. Although insurance companies number of air bags. systems alert drivers if they get too
may vary in what they consider safety • Adaptive cruise control: This close to the edge of a lane.
features, the following are generalized feature monitors traffic conditions and • Blind spot sensors: These sen-
options that may qualify drivers for dis- adjusts speed by controlling the throt- sors light up or make a sound when
counted insurance rates. tle and brakes to maintain distance a vehicle is in drivers’ blind spots,
• Antilock braking system: These from other vehicles. potentially preventing collisions during
systems have been standard equip- • Daytime running lights: Daytime lane changes.

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2 VROOM - Fall Car Care  cadillac news | Friday, October 18, 2019

Winterize your Summer Ride

It’s not uncommon for Americans to store
their classic or hobby cars away from the cold
weather. Fall is the perfect time to get it ready for
hibernation before the frigid temperatures return.
However, it’s not as simple as leaving it behind in
a garage if you expect it to perform next year.

Change Oil and Filter

Finding Storage Space
Before performing necessary mainte-
nance, you should know exactly where
you will store your car over the winter. Try
and find a place with limited access and
infrequent guests. An extra spot in your
personal garage can be a great space so
you can keep an eye on it and have easy
access to it when it’s time to rev it up in
the spring.
If you do decide to go offsite and rent a
storage space, make sure to explain your
plans of the location and duration it will
be there to your insurance provider. They
may not require this information but it’s
a good idea to give your agent a heads
up that it will be in storage.
Changing the oil and filter provides
excellent protection against engine cor-
rosion. After filling it with the lubri-
cant suggested by the manufacturer and
installing a quality oil filter, make sure to
start the vehicle for a few minutes so it
can circulate throughout the system.
Stabilize Fuel © adobe stock
Top off your fuel tank with premium
gasoline and purchase a stabilizer meant
for storage to add to it. The purpose of
this additive is to prevent gum, varnish Perform Maintenance repairs that you may have forgotten.
Whether you’re a DIY gearhead or feel
and corrosion and eliminates the need If you discover your vehicle is fac-
more confident visiting a repair facility,
to drain the vehicle of gas, which can be ing some performance issues, get them
even your favorite summer driver needs
devastating to an expensive fuel pump. resolved before storing it away.
attention to operate at its peak perfor-
The car will need to be driven so the pro- It’s a good practice to ensure it’s ready
tectants can be distributed throughout mance.
to go when the warmer temperatures
the fuel system. arrive and won’t delay you by making

The importance of routine Edstrom’s

Neighborhood Garage
vehicle maintenance
Owning a car is a big responsibility. Drivers who plan
227 N. Chestnut St.
Reed City
to keep their vehicles for the long haul must emphasize
maintenance if they want to keep adding miles to their 231-832-8283
odometers. In fact, the automotive information site M-F 8am-5pm
CarAdvice says that routine maintenance may be the
most important thing drivers can do for their vehicles.
A vehicle needs consistent care if it is to run efficiently.
Maintenance also reduces the risk of roadside break-
downs and costly repairs. Here’s a look at some of the
benefits of staying on top of maintenance.
• Saves money: Even though maintenance costs money,
Exhaust Fixes
sticking to a consistent maintenance schedule can
save big bucks in the long run. For example, the cost
of rotating and aligning tires is considerably less than • Maintains a maintenance record: When the time
As Low As $40!
Duals
repairing a car after a major blowout and paying for a comes to sell the vehicle, having a log of routine main-
tow and tire replacement. tenance indicates to potential buyers that the vehicle
• Improves performance and efficiency: Routine main- was well cared for.
tenance includes oil changes, filter changes and fluid • Keeps compliance: Vehicles covered under manufac- Start at $160 and up
top-offs. Such tasks keep engines running smoothly. turer’s warranties typically need to be maintained
Ignoring this routine maintenance can put engines in in adherence to factory-recommended maintenance
We are your car doctor
jeopardy of breaking down and adversely affect vehicle schedules. This ensures that the vehicle is in compli-
performance, diminishing fuel economy and leading to
a sluggish ride.
ance and will be covered in the event of a warranty
claim.
Muffler Man
• Identifies safety issues: Routine inspections and work Routine vehicle maintenance is important for a variety 823 N. Mitchell Street
performed by reputable service stations help drivers of reasons. Drivers can work with a trusted and reliable Cadillac
stay abreast of recalls or issues that can affect the
safety of the vehicle.
mechanic to develop a schedule that keeps their cars 231-775-3403
and trucks on the road.

Handle a breakdown with ease which can serve as all automotive and heavy
No job too big
Drivers expect their vehicles to an additional alert or small
safely transport them from point A to to other drivers. equipment repair
point B. But sometimes drivers find 3. Engage the emer- • on-site repairs
themselves stranded on the side of
the road due to a breakdown. That
can be an especially precarious posi-
gency brake. Turn
the wheel away from
the road and put
• welding • fabrication JackBURKE
tion to be in, but knowing what to do on the emergency
Certified MeChaniC

during a breakdown can help drivers
and their passengers get through
such situations unscathed.
1. Find a safe spot to pull over.
Whenever possible, guide the car
to a shoulder or area out of the
line of traffic but still visible to
oncoming traffic. If the car is not
drivable, enlist the help of some-
one to push it into a safe zone.
2. Turn on hazard lights. Esurance
advises to put on hazard lights,
which will warn other drivers that
something is wrong. Hazard lights
brake to help pre-
vent the car from
rolling.
4. Set up other warn-
ing signals. Prepared
drivers keep cones,
reflective triangles or flares in
their cars. AARP suggests placing
three warning signals. The first
should be 50 feet away and direct-
ly behind the vehicle. The other
two can then be placed nearer to
the vehicle.
5. Remain in the vehicle. It is safer to
BURKE
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6. Call for assistance. Use a mobile 231-768-5375
phone to dial a roadside assis-
tance service or tow truck. Drivers TRUcK & TRailER
also may want to contact the near-
est police station to ask for help.
Roadside assistance programs are
available for a fee from private com-
panies and sometimes through vehi-
cle dealerships or insurance com-

fall tire special

also may alert other motorists who stay in the vehicle and call for help panies. Such services can provide
might offer assistance. Once your than to get out and stand on the peace of mind if and when break-
hazard lights are on, pop the hood, side of a busy roadway. downs occur.

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Friday, October 18, 2019 | cadillac news VROOM - Fall Car Care
Is your Exhaust System Exhausted?
Out of sight, out of mind. Underneath your
vehicle is a crucial system of pipes that allow your
vehicle to operate optimally. Without them, the
roadways and environment would be completely
different than how we view them today.
Make an exhaust inspection a part of your
regular maintenance. Once your vehicle is
on the rack for an oil change, a technician
has a clear view of any defects or foresee-
able problems. Cracks, leaks or loose joints
can cause a world of problems and may
even deem your vehicle inoperable in cer-
tain areas.
The Role of an
Exhaust System
A key role of your exhaust is to keep the
people inside the cabin safe. It reroutes
dangerous gases created in the engine to
dispel outside.
Understanding how your exhaust system
works can encourage you to take its main-
tenance serious. Here is a breakdown of
Types of Tire Wear
Many view the wear and tear
on tires as a necessary part of
driving. While it’s true the tread
won’t last forever, the way they
wear can provide great clues into
other problems and prolong their
use once issues are resolved.
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the important components, from the Car
Care Council.
Muffler: Deadens the noises and
explosions made by a properly functioning
engine.
Catalytic converters: Typically contains
two catalysts — one to subdue nitrogen-
oxide pollution and the other to oxidize it to
turn carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide.
Oxygen sensors: Mounted in the
exhaust system, they monitor oxygen levels
to ensure the engine and converters oper-
ate properly.
Fortunately, most exhaust system prob-
lems will be revealed by a check engine light.
Symptoms of
Degrading Exhaust
Traveling on degrading tires can
leave you stranded with a flat or
cause a dangerous blowout while
driving. You can perform a quick
check on your treads integrity by
using an affordable depth gauge.
This simple tool is pressed between
tire grooves and reveals how much
tread is left; the typical replacement
level is when 2/32 of an inch is left
but certain tire manufacturers may
suggest it sooner.
If you don’t have a gauge, the Car
Care Council says to place an upside
down penny between your tread. If
any portion of President Lincoln’s
head is visible, the replacement
threshold has been met. Here are a
few ways your tires may prematurely
wear and what it tells you about the
condition of your vehicle.
Replace your Cabin
One component that often goes unnoticed in late-model vehicles
is the cabin air filter. This helpful filtration device is used to trap
pollutants and dust traveling through your HVAC system before it
enters the interior of your car.
Recommended interval changes
dramatically differ based on your
climate, driving conditions and time
of year, but the American Automotive
Association says most manufactur-
ers recommend replacing it every
15,000 to 30,000 miles.
The installation and part cost is
relatively affordable so don’t forgo a
replacement at your repair facility’s
suggestion.
Is it Really That
Important?
Most vehicles pre-2000 weren’t
equipped with cabin air filters.
incoming particles caused by dust
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Besides a warning light, many exhaust
symptoms can be realized by listening for
unusual sounds. A muffler is loaded with
baffles, or metallic chambers to cancel out
the sound of the engine.
When they begin to be compromised, it
often means the linkage inside is degrad-
ing, which may lead to a rattling noise.
Catalytic converters also show physical
signs of wear by the inside materials becom-
ing loose. Rubber mounts are another key
Center Wear
When you notice wear down the
center but not on a tire’s side,
it usually indicates your rubber is
overinflated. This instance causes
them to bulge and leave the middle
of a tire as the only section travel-
ing down the road. To avoid this
type of wear, inspect your pressure
periodically and ensure it maintains
levels which are recommended by
the manufacturer.
Side Wear
Alternatively, uneven wear featured
on your tire’s side often means they
are underinflated. When you are
adamant about filling them up to
the correct levels but still notice
the sides fading faster, it’s a good
indication that your car is out of
Air Filter
from other cars and exhaust from
semi tractors. While it doesn’t direct-
ly enhance or diminish your engine’s
performance like other filters, its
presence is a huge contributor to the
cleanliness of your cabin’s air and
integrity of the air conditioner.
Signs it’s Time for New
The most common signs that it’s
time for a new cabin air filter is a
musty odor coming from the vents.
This occurs when contaminants and
pollutants cause the filter to become
clogged or overcome with debris.
The Car Care Council also suggests
that a restriction of air flow from your
HVAC system is a key indicator that
there is trouble. Luckily, replacing the
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© adobe stock
component to an efficient exhaust system.
If they become loose, it’s not uncommon for
your pipes to cause a thumping sound as
you travel over railroads or potholes.
More serious issues include an exhaust
smell inside the cabin. This commonly
means there is a leak and should be
addressed immediately. You may also
notice differences in performance like
reduced gas mileage or if a vehicle runs
hotter than normal.
alignment or a steering component
is defective.
Flat Spots
Another instance that affects the
middle of a tire is caused by aggres-
sive braking or emergency stops.
If you notice this wear but don’t
remember making sudden stops,
you should have an expert check the
integrity of your braking system.
Cupping
When you notice visual scoops
missing in your tire tread, it’s com-
monly due to faulty shock absorbers
or other suspension components.
Fortunately, you can usually feel
the vehicle bouncing as you drive so
you can identify a problem that must
be resolved quickly.
filtration unit is much more inexpen-
sive than resolving issues with heat-
ing and air conditioning. If your filter
looks new upon inspection, have your
system inspected by a professional.
Where it’s Located
While the location of a cabin filter
may differ between automotive man-
ufacturers, most are placed behind
the glove compartment, under the
hood or dashboard in most modern
vehicles. If you plan to change the
unit yourself, it can be a timesaver
to refer to your owner’s manual to
quickly discover it. If you are without
a guide, a professional repair facility
can find it and determine if you are
due for a replacement.
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4 VROOM - Fall Car Care  cadillac news | Friday, October 18, 2019

With fall around the

Check Your Lights
corner, the days are
getting shorter. Ensure
your vehicle is safe to
operate for nighttime
driving by checking your
entire lighting system.
Properly working bulbs are important
to signify your intentions to other drivers
and highlight the road in front of you.
It’s important to understand how to
change your vehicle’s lights and the types
of bulbs that are used for illumination.
For some newer vehicles, a simple head-
light change isn’t always the case and
requires an expert to dismantle a front
end or replace an innovative HID bulb.
Some options with LED brake lights may
even require a complete replacement
of the rear assemblies. Check with your
local dealership to get estimates and
prepare yourself for the costs you should
budget for so you’re not left in the dark
due to an unaffordable repair.
Headlights
If you don’t often drive at night, you
may not realize you have a bulb out until
it’s too late. You may find yourself strug-
© adobe stock
gling to see the oncoming road or being
stopped by a law enforcement agent and
receiving a warning or expensive fine.
With someone else in the vehicle, ask
them to flip on both the low- and high-
beams. You should also inspect for work-
ing fog and daytime running lights. Some
newer vehicles forgo a traditional halogen
bulb and use an HID system. They are
beneficial in terms of longevity and bright-
ness, but rely on an expensive system of
components like ballasts and an igniter.
Interior
Inside your cabin are even more lights
that help keep you safe. In addition to
analyzing your dome bulbs, it’s likely your
dashboard relies on illumination to high-
light essential gauges like the speedome-
ter, fuel levels and warning systems. After
you determine it’s a bulb issue and not a
blown fuse, replacing dash lights includes
taking out the instrument cluster and may
be best left to a professional.
Stop and Turn
You should also take the time to ensure
the rear of your vehicle is illuminated.
Make sure the stoplight and turn bulbs
are working properly as well as license
plate lights. Your blinkers will usually
warn you of a problem inside the cabin
by blinking quickly when the switch is
engaged.

View your Vehicle’s Computer

With cooler temperatures on will cover the expense if you hire them to complete the
repair. Building a relationship with a familiar facility is
the horizon, solving engine an efficient way to maintain your vehicle, affordably.
problems now can keep you from
an uncomfortable situation on History of On-Board Diagnostics II
According to the International Council on Clean
the side of the road. Transportation, the Air Resources Board adopted an
OBD II Regulation in 1989. It replaced the previous OBD
You already understand that a check engine light I system which required adapters to fit different vehicles
should be immediately addressed, but you may have and was limited to what it would reveal.
been tempted to receive a free scan to see what the OBD II was standard beginning in 1994, but not fully
problem may be. Remember that these tools can only implemented until 1996 for passenger cars and light-
give you an idea of a persistent problem while some- duty trucks. The software identifies issues through
times leaving the real issue to become worse. codes given from a vehicle’s computer which is tuned in © adobe stock

The best way to find out what your vehicle is trying to nearly every emission-related component.
to tell you is by visiting a repair shop with high-quality
diagnostic tests. While they may charge a fee, some What It Reveals How Consumers Benefit
When a check engine light is illuminated, it could be The innovative system has changed the way techni-

BREIDENSTEIN
signifying an issue as simple as a loose gas cap or a cians are able to diagnose and resolve complex prob-
serious problem being transmitted from an important lems. While software won’t pinpoint a problem and
sensor. Of course, this warning light should always be explain in detail the repair, it provides knowledgeable

OIL & AUTO SERVICE, INC. addressed but it can provide clues to its urgency.
For instance, during emergencies, the light will typi-
mechanics a great perspective on where the issue lies,
then, their expertise can take over.
cally flash or beam red rather than amber. If this occurs, This alleviates unnecessary repairs as techs aren’t
“Serving you since 1976” faced with guessing and making erroneous diagnoses.
don’t hesitate to park the vehicle and have it towed for
Automotive & Light Truck, Repair & Service a thorough inspection at your preferred repair facility. Consumers are also given foresight into issues that are
• Trailer Hitches • When the light is constant, the issue is less urgent but on the verge of arising, allowing them to budget and
should still be addressed at your earliest convenience. prepare themselves for potential disaster.
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(231) 775-3371 Open: Monday-Friday 8 AM-5:30 PM Over time, it’s common for certain compartments to become the
502 S. Mitchell St., Cadillac, MI 49601
junk drawers of our vehicles. Glove compartments and trunks are
placed that are often overlooked for cleanliness.
However, removing the
junk and replacing it with
Glove Proof of insurance: If you
are in an accident or ques-
important documentation Compartment tioned by a law enforce-
and safety gear in these You may find yourself ment agent about insur-
areas can ensure you’re using your vehicle’s glove ance documents, knowing
prepared while traveling. box as temporary storage exactly where they are

Reed City Auto Repair When committing to

declutter your car, give the
See us for your Fall tune up needs! cabin it’s own attention by
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tect it from the sun.
2704 Old US 131, Reed City, Michigan Start your fall with a clean
box for napkins, wrappers
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its handy location makes
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your own convenience,
the experts at Nationwide
encourage us to take
advantage of the space
to secure important docu-
ments and items.
located is calming during a
sometimes nerve-shatter-
ing experience.
Owner’s manual: If
you discover lights illumi-
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nated on your dashboard,
the manual can tell you
what they mean and how a new car or even used, it’s
they should be resolved. crucial to buy your own to
You can also keep track of
keep on hand.

231-832-3773
car to welcome the crisp Medical information:
temperatures and exciting Write down information
holiday season. regarding certain medi-
cations you require and
allergies for people who
frequent the vehicle. This
1450 N. Mitchell St., Cadillac, MI 231-775-3448 foxmotorsofcadillac.com can be a lifesaver in an
accident that leaves you
your maintenance sched-
ule in this guide.
Trunk Storage
Manufacturers of most
modern cars have fore-
gone including a spare tire
and the tools to complete
A benefit of this is you will
have a full-sized tire to use
if you ever if you ever find
yourself with a flat, they
don’t carry speed restric-
tions like a smaller donut.
You can also gain peace
of mind by keeping extra

59.95 $ unable to respond. fluids like oil, pre-mixed

$
59.95
the repair. If you’re buying
* antifreeze and brake fluid
in case you find your vehi-
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4 TIRE ROTATION, LUbE, NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY away from town. A first-aid
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WINTER IS COMING!
OPEN MON.-FRI. 9 AM-4 PM
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kit packed with bandages,
INSPECTION AND CAR wASH and oil filter. Includes tire rotation, taxes, diesel vehicles and
disposal fees extra. Hybrid battery test excluded. See service
gauzes, emergency light
Service Includes: Change oil filter, change advisor for vehicle exclusions. and extra clothes and blan-
engine oil with full synthetic oil (up to 5 NO jOb TOO bIG OR SMall kets should also be readily
qts.) rotate tires, multipoint inspection.
• laTEST COMpuTERIzEd available for you and your
*Passenger cars only. Some models higher. Must present
passengers.
coupon when order is written. Plus tax & shop supplies. Not
valid with any other offer. Prior sales excluded. Valid only at dIaGNOSTICS

24.95
• aIR CONdITIONING
Fox Toyota of Cadillac. Synthetic oil additional

$ • fully lICENSEd & INSuREd Phil’s County

PROFESSIONAL
DETAILING Brake InspectIon specIal
Includes 4 Wheel Brake Inspections
Call fOR aN appOINTMENT
Line Service
PACKAGE and tire rotation
STOP ! “Area’s Oldest

149
Buy four select AY Independent
IN TOD
$ goodyear or Full Line of Parts Repair Facility”
pIrellI® tIres, (EST 1982)
Service Includes: Interior Vacuum,
Clean Interior Glass, Shampoo Carpet
& Seats, Exterior Wash & Wax, Clean
get up to a
$100 reBate McBain Auto • Computerized Front & Rear Alignments
• Brakes • Batteries • Shocks

Service, Inc.
• Struts • Air Conditioning
Door Jambs & Trunk
*Valid only at Fox Motors of Cadillac. Not redeemable for By maIl* • Preventive Maintenance • Tires
• Auto & Truck Repair
cash value. Must present this coupon for pricing. Not to GET A $25 REBATE BY MAIL WHEN YOU
be combined with any other offers. Does not include any USE THE FORD SERVICE CREDIT CARD ON A
installation or applicable parts. Includes standard cleaning,
any excessive instances of dirt, grime or trash may be an
additional charge. Offer Expires 11/30/19
QUALIFYING PURCHASE OF $250 OR MORE
(BEFORE TAX).*
231-825-2729
9438 Morey Rd., M-66 N, McBain
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-5 • Sat. 8-12
Call Us Today! North of light on 66 near softball diamond Mon.-Fri. 8-5:30
231-832-5498
Toll-Free at (231) 775-3448 23680 W. US-10, Reed City 49677