1. Park your car in a cool shady place. Direct sunlight can cause the chemicals in the cleaners to bake in to your upholstery.
2. Use 100% cotton terry cloths to remove the dirt. They help draw the dirt away from the surfaces of your interior, minimizing the chance of just smearing it around
3. Use the right products. Make sure you’re not using the wrong polish for your upholstery; it can be very damaging over time.
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Is your car working hard or working smart? There is such a thing as doing too much! AVOID doing these two things and watch your summer get a whole lot cooler.
NEVER turn your car off without switching the AC off first! Powering off your vehicle while the air is still running creates a small shock in the air conditioning system that can have damaging side effects over time. Ideally, you should switch off the AC a few blocks from your destination. It’s fine to keep the fan running.
NEVER crank your AC from 0 to full blast! We understand that it’s hot outside, but forcing your car to blast all of that energy at once doesn’t make the air cool faster. Start your AC on the lowest setting and work your way towards the smaller temps.
If you’re getting ready to roll into your first summer road trip, the only thing on your mind is all the fun ahead of you. Swimsuit, sunblock, and phone charger packed? Check. Sunglasses? Yep. What about the inflatable beach ball you forgot last year? Done. You even remembered extra towels–you’re good! You understand how important it is to plan ahead.
But what’s rattling around behind you is just as important, maybe even more so. We’re sure you’ve heard the common phrase, “It’s about the journey, not the destination.” It applies to packing for your summer road trip too! Tackle any problem that might pop up while you’re on the road by making sure you’ve got these essential items stowed in your trunk:
Tire-Changing Equipment (sounds obvious, but you wouldn’t believe how many people forget!)
Jumper Cables
Road Atlas (Because phones die and there’s not service everywhere. Yes, we’re serious.)
Gas cans (Fill ‘em up before you hit the road)
First Aid Kit
Camera (It’s a good idea to keep a cheap disposable in your trunk at all times, not just for capturing memories but to use for documentation in case of a car accident)
It’s usually not as easy as you think it would be. Bringing your best non-human friend on the road with you seems simple enough, right? Not always so. Here are a few tips on how to make travel with your pet easier.
Healthy Start: The last thing you need on the road is a sick pet. Make sure your pet is all set on vaccinations and has the proper certificates if you intend to cross any international/province/state borders.
Frequent Pit Stops: You pet can get stir crazy just like you! Stop at any designated waiting area or service stop and take it on a little walk. This may increase your travel time, but it is well worth it! Breaks like these also serve as a perfect time to hydrate.
Proper Restraint: Whether your pet is calm and obedient in the car it is always important to make sure they are safe. No need to roll the windows down for fresh air, you don’t want any debris hitting them in the face. A favorite blanket or pet bed is perfect for a long road trip. Creating a normalcy and routine for car rides helps your pet stay calm. There are lots of other ways to make you and your pet calm during a car ride lasting anywhere between 5 minutes and 8 hours.
(Source: Tripswithpets.com)
The Elmiraj has been getting a lot of attention lately– but how much do you know about Cadillac’s other concept vehicles? Get acquainted with the Ciel Concept–here’s your cheat sheet.
Pronounced: C-L
Inspired by: West Coast
Defining exterior feature: rear-hinged doors, serving as a dramatic introduction to the equally dramatic interior.
Defining interior feature: accents of premium Italian Olive wood
Extras: A “floating” center console (connectivity for each passenger) and leather seating with heating/cooling technology. Our favorite part? Aromatherapy controlled from the rear armrest!
It seems like the grass is always greener on the other side. When you’re behind the wheel of a car, it’s easy to let yourself view cyclists as a source of stress–even an obstacle. When you’re on a bike, the feeling is as uncomfortable but from an opposite perspective. The good news? We can all hit the road and reach our destinations safely! The secret is just a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T!
Rules of the road: Many fail to realize that bikes and cars must abide by the same regulations during their commutes. Each side has an equal right to their own space.
Exit your car carefully! Make sure there’s not a cyclist rushing up behind you–remember they have no reaction time if you swing it open without warning.
Situational awareness is necessary for everyone on the road. Pay attention to your surroundings so you can avoid accidents before they happen.
Perspective: It’s important to take into account that a car running a red light or a pothole in front of you out of nowhere is an even bigger deal if you’re on a bike.
Exercise safety precautions! Cyclists are more vulnerable targets for the dangers of the road so it’s important to plan accordingly. Wear appropriate safety gear.
Courtesy wave: whether you’re a cyclist or motorist, turn signals are vital! Now more than ever, be sure to let others on the road know where you’re planning to go next.
Time is never worth risking a life. It seems like we’re always in a race against the clock. Plan ahead for your day, ensure your things are ready to go the night before–do whatever you have to do. Just make sure you never hit the road in a hurry. It’s just not worth the risk.
1) Choose a Reliable Vehicle:
It’s important to read consumer reviews and reports. A vehicle may look shiny and be enticing with fancy features but sometimes you may end up with a lemon if you’re not careful. Always make sure that you do your research and ask for a service record!
2) Find a Mechanic You Trust:
Not all mechanics are trustworthy and will sometimes charge/overcharge you for services you don’t need. There are also many mechanics out there that are honest, hardworking and have your best interest at heart. Once you find one, establish a long-term relationship with them. Having a good go-to mechanic will save you A LOT of money in the long run.
3) Always Stay Up to Date on Your Preventative Maintenance:
This means oil changes, tire rotations, breaks, alignments, and fluid changes. It may seem expensive, but trust me; the consequences of avoiding preventative maintenance will be much more detrimental to your pocket book.
