Auto Roadside Assistance Blog

Modern vehicles are designed safer to survive accidents and keep passengers safe.  Virtually all automakers include emergency kits installed by the factory.  This is either due to competitive pressure or government regulations.  Most of the roadside kits include reflective markers, jumper cables, and flashlights.  These kits typically deal with mechanical and accident breakdowns.

Today’s automobiles endure unique conditions.  There is an increase in natural disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, fires, etc.  Other emergencies include major accidents, snowstorms, and mechanical breakdowns, which all leave motorists stranded.

This is why it is necessary to be prepared in an emergency situation.  Motorists need to have emergency kits, first aid kits, and most importantly, a roadside assistance program.  In any emergency, drivers are left vulnerable, and knowing that help is only a phone call away leaves drivers with peace of mind.  It is simple to take these precautions, and they can literally save your life.

Modern vehicles are made with sophistication and elegance.  The dashboard of recent vehicles feature innovative technology that will have drivers in awe.  This technology is a benefit to us all, as long as we know how to use it.  Yet, how many drivers actually know the functions and operations of all of these controls and switches?

When a motorist slips into the driver’s seat, he should become one with his vehicle.  People tend to oversimplify the task of driving.  Sometimes we think the driver only has to perform elementary movements.  However, there is a lot more involved in driving. A defensive driver will make himself aware of the instruments and their operations before he ever puts his car in drive.

It is risky to look for a button or dial while driving because that means that the driver’s eyes aren’t on the road. Unfortunately, playing with gadgets leave people calling for emergency roadside assistance. A safe driver will go through a list of operations before taking off.  For instance, they will flick switches and turn knobs in a set sequence.  Also, they will check the gauges for the ammeter and oil pressure once the engine is running.

Enjoy the modern technology that your car has to offer, but learn about the functions off the road, not on.  Educating yourself in advance can save you from dangerous accidents and road service calls.

We’ve all been there.  You’re driving your vehicle when suddenly your check engine light comes on.  If you’re like the majority of motorists, you aren’t really sure what the light is telling you.  This could be the most misunderstood light on your dashboard because it can mean many different things.  If your check engine light comes on you don’t have to immediately pull over and call for road service, but there are several tips that you should follow.

First, you should check for serious problems that would require immediate attention.  Look at your gauges to see if there is overheating or low oil pressure.  If they are apparent you should pull over and shut off your engine.

Next, tighten your gas cap.  Many times this will solve your problem.  Know that it might take a few trips before your check engine light resets.

It might help to reduce your speed.  If your light is blinking or your car is performing poorly reducing your speed will help.  Have your car checked as soon as possible.

If your check engine light comes on, remember not to panic.  Just follow these simple tips to deal with the problem.  Make sure that you have an emergency roadside assistance program for situations such as this.  You don’t want to end up stranded on the side of the road.

Many people maintain their car under the hood but neglect their car’s exterior.  To freshen up your car and make it look brand new, follow these simple tips.

To care for your car’s exterior start by giving it a comprehensive washing.  You’ll want to remove all of the mud and grime that has built up on your car.

Make sure to use a pH balanced wash on your car.  You should avoid harsh detergents because they will strip off the car wax on your vehicle.

After a good car washing, make an evaluation of the surface of your vehicle.  You can do this by rubbing your hand along the surface of your vehicle.  If the surface feels rough on your hand, chances are you have bugs, tar, or water deposits.  These things need to be removed before you wax your car.

After doing these things it is time to put a car polish and wax on your car to protect it’s finish from harmful elements.

Make sure to be proactive when it comes to taking care of your car.  This includes maintenance, washing, waxing, and buying an auto warranty and roadside assistance.

Although cars of today don’t require maintenance as regularly as the cars of the past, they still need a maintenance schedule.  This will ensure that your car has a long, healthy life span.  Consulting your owner’s manual for the service schedule that your car requires can save you from having to call your road service program.  Here are a few maintenance mistakes that you should avoid.

Many people fail to check their tire pressure.  Underinflated tires can cost you more at the gas pump and wear out sooner.  You should check your tires twice a year.

As simple as it may seem, motorists forget to replace their windshield wipers.  This should be done once a year to ensure that you have good visibility through your windshield.

Recent cars don’t need regular tune-ups.  This is because valves don’t need adjusting and there aren’t any carburetors to mess with.  Make sure to do your big car service at 60,000 and 120,000 to replace spark plugs, timing belts, and coolants.

Finally, change your oil according to your car’s owner’s manual.  They don’t have to be done every 3,000 miles like in days past.  Also, use the oil recommended for your car.

Regular maintenance is necessary for your car to keep you from calling for emergency roadside assistance.  However, don’t make maintenance mistakes that could cost you extra money.

The heart of the cooling system in a vehicle is the water pump.  It serves the purpose of circulating engine coolant through the entire system, starting with the radiator, then to the engine and back.  The water pump allows you to use air conditioning when it’s hot out.

The vehicle’s engine powers the water pump so that it works correctly.  It uses either a gear and chain system or a belt and pulley.  The pump generates power that goes to a shaft with an impeller.

The impeller circulates the coolant throughout the vehicle.  The impeller can be compared to a propeller that makes a boat move.

The impeller and shaft spin on a sealed bearing.  Checking this part of the water pump is essential because it wears out easily.  You can look for coolant that is leaking and an odd noise.  Also be aware that a wet engine is an indicator that you should replace your water pump.

If you notice any of these signs, it is time to replace your water pump.  Also, it is a good idea to have a road service program and used car warranties just in case of emergencies.  After all, you can’t always foresee when your car will fail you.

Car accidents are scary and usually happen unexpectedly.  An accident leaves motorists feeling shocked and stunned, and often, they don’t know what to do next.  Here are some important steps to take in this situation.

Of course the first thing to do is call 911 in the event of an injury.  Also, always contact the police and then place a call to your road service program.

Next, call your insurance agent.  They can inform you about what information to exchange with the other motorist, and help you survey the scene.  Be aware that you shouldn’t admit fault at the scene of the accident, the insurance companies will determine this.

Also, you will need to read the information in your insurance policy, so you file your claim within the specified time limit.  Often, if the vehicle damage is more than $750 you need to file a SR1 form, which can be found on the DMV website of the state that you live in.

It is always scary to be involved in a car accident, but unfortunately it happens to all of us at one point or another.  It is essential to know what to do in this case.  To alleviate stress, have all of your important documents ready, such as your insurance policy and auto warranty.

It is helpful to use a car loan calculator to determine what the cost for a new or used car purchase will be monthly.

These can be found online with options for buying or leasing.  This is a helpful tool in determining what your budget actually is and how much car you can afford.  Just remember to factor in other car costs, such as roadside assistance and new car warranties.

Just remember that the numbers on a vehicle loan calculator are not actual quotes.  The calculator allows you to compare the costs of different cars and see what your payments per month will be.

On the calculator there is a line to enter the dollar amount you would like to finance. Then, by clicking your mouse you can compare what payments will be, with different arrangements for paying.  You can also find out what interest payments will be for the life of the vehicle loan.

It is a bonus to use a car loan calculator before going to a dealership to buy a vehicle.  You will already know what your budget is, which will allow you to make a smart purchase.  You will also know how much money you have left over to spend on maintenance costs and an auto warranty.

One of the most expensive hobbies is collecting cars.  But, here is a twist.  Purchase a new vehicle now that will become a valuable collectible in years to come.  The best part is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to purchase a value-appreciating car.  The following cars are on the road now, but will be regarded as nostalgic in 15-20 years.

First on the list is the Cadillac XLR-V Roadster.  This has a hand-built 4.4-liter V8 engine that puts out 443 hp.  This vehicle is a serious roadster and it competes with the Porsche 911 Cabriolet and Mercedes SL-Class.

The Lotus Exige S is also on the list.  For practical purposes, this car is miserable; after all you wouldn’t find it ideal for grocery shopping.  However, research shows that people admit their hearts beat faster when thinking about this ride.

Finally, the Mustang Shelby GT 500 KR is sure to be a collectible.  This car takes the GT500 in a bare bones form and makes it into a muscle car with540hp.  This car is a tribute to Carroll Shelby.

If you’re a car enthusiast, purchasing a current vehicle that is sure to be a collectible in the future is a smart financial move.  However, make sure that you purchase an auto warranty and roadside assistance for these gems.  After all, the point is to keep these cars for many years.

Crossovers are becoming more and more popular with consumers.  These are essentially Sport-utility vehicles that are put on car platforms.  Crossovers give you the practicality of the minivan, with some of the capabilities of an SUV, all with a car’s efficiency. Consumers love their versatility, and there are many promising models to choose from.

The BMW X6 looks like a fastback sedan and satisfies the consumers who aren’t crazy about crossovers.  It is shaped more like a car than an SUV, and is intended for use on the road, not off.

Ford is going to make a replacement for the Explorer, which is based on the concept of the Explorer America.  It is going to be a crossover, but won’t be on a truck design like the current Ford Explorer.

Toyota has put out the Venza with great success.  This vehicle is essentially a Camry wagon.

Mercedes-Benz has made a crossover effort with the GLK.  This isn’t a small vehicle, although it is much smaller than the ML Class.  However, this isn’t the best styling by Mercedes.

The time will probably come when motorists revolt against crossovers, just like they have done with station wagons and minivans.  But, for now, crossovers are in high demand.  However, like with any vehicle, make sure to purchase an auto warranty and road service program to protect you from costly repairs down the road.