Last Minute Gift Ideas for the Drivers on Your List

The holiday season is in full swing! Are you still searching for the perfect gifts for everyone on your list? We can help with gift ideas for the drivers in your life! Here is a list of thoughtful and practical last-minute gift ideas that will surely rev up the holiday spirit for your automotive enthusiasts. From convenience to safety, these gifts cater to all kinds of drivers, making them feel appreciated and ready to hit the road in style.

Christmas Gift wrapped in red with gold bow

Car Care Kit

Start with a practical gift that every driver can appreciate – a car care kit. This budget-friendly option is something you can assemble yourself. Include items like microfiber cloths, cleaning solutions, tire cleaner, and air fresheners.  

Phone Mounts and Chargers

Help your loved ones stay connected and hands-free on the road with a reliable phone mount and charger. Opt for versatile mounts that can accommodate different phone sizes and designs. Wireless charging options are a plus for added convenience.

Emergency Roadside Kit

An emergency roadside kit is a thoughtful and practical gift for any driver. Kits typically include items like jumper cables, a flashlight, a tire pressure gauge, and basic tools. It’s a gift that provides peace of mind during unexpected situations.

License Plate Frame

A themed license plate frame is a great gift for someone who has a favorite sports team, hobby, or other special interest. 

Car Organization Accessories

Help the drivers in your life keep their vehicles neat and tidy with car organization accessories. Consider items like seat organizers, trunk organizers, or even a portable garbage bin. These gifts make daily commuting a more organized and enjoyable experience.

Bluetooth Car Adapter

For those with older vehicles, a Bluetooth car adapter can be a game-changer. It allows drivers to stream music, make hands-free calls, and navigate using their smartphones without upgrading their entire car audio system.

Gift Cards for Gas or Car Washes

Practical and always appreciated, gift cards for gas stations or car wash services are excellent last-minute options. 

Need more ideas? Car and Driver has some additional ideas you can check out. We especially love the cigarette lighter adapter plugs and the gear shift hoodie:

 

 

Happy gifting and safe travels this holiday season!

Five Things Drivers Should Do to Get Their Vehicles Ready for Christmas Travel

According to the American Automobile Association’s December Holiday Travel Forecast, 115.2 million people will travel 50 miles or more from home over the 10-day year-end holiday travel period, which is a 2.2% increase over last year.

Car driving on a snowy road for Christmas travel

The report goes on to caution travelers who are driving that Saturday, December 23, and Thursday, December 28, will be the most congested days on the road. After Christmas, Saturday, December 30, is expected to be the day when many people will be heading back home or traveling to New Year’s Eve destinations, so an increase in traffic compared to a normal Saturday is anticipated. The experts say the best times to hit the road will be before lunchtime or after 7pm. 

If a road trip is part of your holiday plans, preparing your vehicle for holiday travel is essential to ensure a safe and smooth journey. Here are five things drivers should do to get their vehicles ready for Christmas travel:

1. Perform a Comprehensive Vehicle Check

  • Check the oil level and quality.
  • Ensure the brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant levels are adequate.
  • Inspect the battery for corrosion and check its charge.
  • Verify that all lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, are working properly.
  • Examine the tires for proper inflation, tread depth, and overall condition. Don’t forget to also check the spare tire.

2. Brake Inspection

  • Have the brake system inspected to ensure it is in good working order.
  • Check brake pads and rotors for wear and replace them if necessary.
  • Ensure that the brake fluid is at the recommended level and free of contaminants.

3. Check the Cooling System

  • Inspect the radiator and hoses for leaks and damage.
  • Ensure the radiator is filled with the appropriate coolant mixture.
  • Consider flushing the cooling system if it’s been a while since the last service.

4. Winterize Your Vehicle

  • Check and replace wiper blades if they are worn, and ensure the windshield washer fluid is topped up with a winter-grade solution.
  • Test the heater and defroster to ensure they are working effectively.
  • Verify that all doors, including the trunk, open and close properly.

5. Prepare an Emergency Kit 

  • Assemble or update an emergency kit that includes items like a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, blankets, a basic tool kit, and non-perishable snacks.
  • Pack essential documents, such as your driver’s license, registration, insurance information, and any necessary roadside assistance memberships.
  • Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged, and consider bringing a portable phone charger.

Remember to plan your route in advance, check the weather forecast, and allow extra time for potential delays. Safe travels and happy holidays!

 

October is Fall Car Care Month

October probably has you thinking of warm sweaters, falling leaves, pumpkin spice, and trick-or-treaters. This month also brings a reason to pay special attention to one of your most prized possessions – your vehicle. October is known as “Car Care Month.” This month is dedicated to encouraging vehicle owners to perform essential maintenance to prepare for the upcoming winter season. It’s important to treat your car now to avoid a scary situation down the road.

Monster driving car

 

Why is Car Care Month Important?

Car Care Month is an annual event recognized by automotive industry experts, manufacturers, and auto service professionals. It serves as a reminder for car owners to take a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, taking care of your car should be a priority to ensure safe and trouble-free driving in the months ahead.

Reasons to Prioritize Car Care

Ensure Safety

Maintaining your car is not only about optimizing its performance but also about ensuring safety. The colder months can bring hazardous driving conditions, and a well-maintained vehicle is less likely to leave you stranded or encounter unexpected issues on the road.

Save Money

Routine maintenance can prevent major breakdowns and costly emergency repairs. Neglecting vehicle maintenance can lead to a domino effect of expensive problems that quickly add up. For example, wheel balancing and tire rotation promotes even treadwear, which extends the tire service life .

Environmental Responsibility

Proper car maintenance isn’t just good for your wallet; it’s also an eco-friendly choice. A well-tuned engine produces fewer emissions and consumes less fuel, reducing your carbon footprint.

Optimize Resale Value

If you ever plan to sell your vehicle, a well-maintained car will fetch a higher resale value. Prospective buyers often look for service records and a history of care when making a purchasing decision.

Car Care Tips for October

  • Check Your Tires – As the temperatures drop, tire pressure tends to decrease. Check your tire pressure and ensure they are properly inflated. This not only improves handling and fuel efficiency but also promotes tire longevity.
  • Inspect the Brakes – Ensure your brake system is in good working order. Squeaky or soft brakes should be inspected and replaced if necessary to maintain stopping power and safety.
  • Change the Oil – Regular oil changes are essential for the health of your engine. If it’s been a while since your last oil change, make it a priority this month.
  • Test the Battery – Cold weather can be tough on your battery. Have it tested to ensure it’s strong enough to handle the winter months.
  • Check Fluid Levels – Make sure all your vehicle’s fluids, including coolant, transmission, and windshield washer fluid, are at their proper levels. Proper fluid levels are essential for overall vehicle performance.
  • Replace Wiper Blades – Fall and winter can bring rain, sleet, and snow. Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition for optimal visibility.

Celebrate Car Care Month By Treating Your Vehicle!

Regular maintenance not only ensures safety but also extends the lifespan of your car, reduces your environmental impact, and saves you money in the long run. So, this October, treat your car the attention it deserves, and enjoy worry-free driving throughout the upcoming season.

Don’t Rely on Luck! Prepare for Safe Driving

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Today is the day for all things Irish, including the luck of the Irish. But there are some things you should not trust only to luck. Your safety on the road is one one them. 

Don't Rely on Luck - Prepare for Safe Driving

Generally speaking, there are good habits we can develop as drivers to keep safe on the road. These top safety tips from Nationwide insurance are a good place to start:

  • Ignore distractions while driving and maintain focus on the road. Don’t multitask, resist the temptation to use electronic devices, and maintain a safe (and legal) speed..
  • Drive defensively, using accident-preventing techniques such as paying attention to other drivers around you, expecting dangers that may occur, and slowing down to make sure you have time to react to anything that might happen.
  • Prepare for trips by planning adequate time for travel (and stops), making necessary adjustments before leaving, setting the GPS before leaving your parked position, and securing all cargo that might move while you are driving.

Make Sure Your Tires Are Safe

Of course, I would not be Tracy Treadmore if I did not mention tires. Tires are incredibly important to safety, they require special and frequent attention. Many drivers don’t realize just how serious a problem bad tires can be. A special study conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board found that “each year, about 33,000 passenger vehicle tire-related crashes occur, resulting in about 19,000 Injuries.” They also found that most tire-related crashes are preventable and actions can be taken to reduce tire failure-related injuries and deaths.

Watch Your Tire Tread

It is important to monitor the condition of your tire tread as it plays a significant role in tire performance. Neglecting to check the tread regularly may lead to tire damage. Often, drivers only inspect their tire tread when they suspect a puncture or when they hit an object on the road. Frequent inspections will help you identify any wear trends and prevent excessive damage.Visually examine the tread or run your hand over it to detect issues such as distortion, feathering, or cupping. Early detection of improper wear patterns allows for corrective measures to be taken and extends the lifespan of your tires.

Check Your Tire Inflation

Maintaining the correct tire pressure is an essential aspect of tire maintenance that can significantly extend tire lifespan. If the pressure falls below the recommended level, the tire’s shoulders experience increased weight, leading to premature wear. Furthermore, low air pressure creates heat buildup, increasing rolling resistance, and reducing fuel efficiency. Therefore, keeping the tires inflated to the correct pressure is crucial for their longevity and optimal performance.

Keep Up On Tire Service

It is crucial to regularly maintain your vehicle’s wheel alignment as it directly impacts the condition of your tires. One of the common causes of unusual tread wear is improper alignment, which causes accelerated wear on certain areas of the tire. To avoid alignment-related issues, such as uneven and premature tread wear, it is recommended to consistently schedule alignment services. Tire rotation is also another maintenance service that should be done regularly and documented to promote even tread wear and extend the lifespan of your tires.

Don’t push your luck when it comes to safe driving, give it a hand! Keep your driving skills sharp and your tires ship-shape! 

“May the Road Rise Up to Meet You…”

Need Gift Ideas? Here are Some Suggestions for the Drivers on Your List

We all have those people who are hard to buy for on our list. While the people in your life probably have a wide range of interests and pursuits, one thing most people have in common is that they drive. An auto-related gift could be just the thing to please those who are difficult to shop for. In many cases, items for the car are things people just don’t think to buy for themselves, but will much appreciate.

Car Decorated With Christmas Gifts

The following gift suggestions that may be just right for the drivers on your list.

Auto Cell Phone Holder

Now that everyone is using their cell phones for GPS, a cell phone holder could be a great gift for those you’ve noticed trying to juggle their phone while driving. They come in adjustable models to fit virtually any cup holder and phone. See ideas

Auto Mats

Rubber floor mats are a great gift idea, particularly for those who do a lot of messy outdoor activities, have pets or small children, as well as people that tend to eat and drink on the go. You can get them fitted for the vehicle, or with their favorite team logo. See ideas

Car Windshield Snow Cover & Sun Shade Protector

Drivers who have their car parked outside all day will appreciate this all-season windshield protection. This easy-to-install protector keeps the car cool in the summer and free of ice and snow in the winter.  See ideas

Folding Shovel

A folding shovel is a great item to keep in the trunk along with a roadside emergency kit. Many drivers are not prepared for roadside problems, so this gift could be a lifesaver! See ideas

Portable Air Compressor

Another great emergency item to keep in your car, a portable air compressor will be useful for filling a leaking tire until it can be fixed. It also can be handy for inflating a camping mattress or pool floats. See ideas

Car Wash Coupons

Those who like to look good in their ride will love this gift. Even those who just like to take care of their vehicle will be pleased. Keeping a clean car is particularly important in the cold weather months when the roads are covered in salty slush. See ideas

Digital Tire Pressure Gauge

Keeping tires correctly inflated is important for assuring safe driving and preserving tire tread. A digital tire pressure monitor makes checks easy. This is especially great for drivers of older cars, which may not have TPMS. See ideas

Memorial Day Road Trip Travel Forecast & Tips

According to AAA Travel, a significant rebound in the number of travelers is anticipated this Memorial Day holiday weekend. Looking at the data, more than 37 million people are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home on a Memorial Day road trip. This is an increase of 60% from last year when only 23 million traveled.

Memorial Day Road Trip Woman in Car

Last year’s number, the lowest on record since AAA began recording in 2000, dropped during the early phase of the pandemic. The 2021 projection still represents nearly 6 million fewer travelers than in 2019. 

If you are planning a Memorial Day road trip, take some time to make sure your vehicle is ready for the road. Here are a few road trip tips:

  • Confirm that your tires are in good condition and properly inflated
  • Test your battery
  • Check your lights to make sure all are working
  • Make sure wiper blades are in good shape
  • Check fluid levels
  • Pack roadside emergency items like jumper cables and travel compressor\
  • Plan your route and stops before you leave
  • Keep a cell phone charger with a car adaptor in your car
  • Download an app like GasBuddy so you can find the best gas prices 
  • Consider the Waze app for real-time traffic info and driving directions

If your plans include traveling on toll roads, using a toll app can be a real time saver. There are state specific options like FastToll (for Illinois) or PayTollo, which covers multiple regions. Whatever your plans are, have a fun and safe Memorial Day Weekend!

Three Ways to Get in Your Car and Give This Season

It has been a difficult year for everyone. 2020 has had us facing serious crises, both health and economic. Looking back through the challenges and hardships, they have also brought us opportunities to pull together and help one another.

Santa in Car

It is that spirit that inspires this post, and hopefully may inspire with some creative ways to give and serve this holiday season.

1. Help someone by taking their vehicle for maintenance.

In many cases, people are not using their cars as they normally do. This could mean that much needed maintenance is being neglected. People with health conditions that put them at high risk may be reluctant to take their care in for service. A great way to help a friend or family member this season might be to offer to take their vehicle in for them. Many auto service shops are currently offering pick up and delivery of cars for service. You might be able to assist someone with making these arrangements.

2. Help someone by giving them a ride.

In response to the health crisis, businesses and restaurants are now offering “curbside pick-up” or “drive-up” services. Unfortunately, many of the people in our community who rely on public transportation are unable to take advantage of these accommodations. It is challenging for those in this situation to do things ranging from grocery shopping, to getting a COVID test, to picking up a meal at a fast food restaurant. Providing a ride could be a wonderful way to help out.

3. Help someone by delivering a holiday surprise.

Some people are just feeling sad, lonely, and isolated from the world. Many are missing celebrations with family and friends, and not attending traditional events they normally look forward to at the holidays. Think about the people in your circle of friends, family, and acquaintances, and consider surprising them with an unexpected doorstep delivery. Festive food items, a small potted Christmas tree, or a gift bag full of holiday dvds could brighten their season more than you can imagine!

If you are not sure about how to find people in need, try contacting local churches or community organizations to see if they have a volunteer program for helping people with transportation challenges. You can also try connecting with your community by using the free NextDoor app.

Wishing you very happy and healthy holidays!

Planning a Thanksgiving Road Trip? Expect Lighter Travel

According to the American Automobile Association Travel Forecast, the number of travelers hitting the road for Thanksgiving this year will be much lighter than normal. This is no surprise considering the effects of COVID-19 travel restrictions. Julie Hall, AAA Public Relations Manager states, “With health and government officials stressing that staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting sick, AAA anticipates at least a 10% drop in travel – the largest one-year decrease since the Great Recession in 2008.”

Thanksgiving

Every year, AAA makes projects for travel numbers based on various models. Mid-October models indicated there would be up to 50 million Thanksgiving travelers, down from 55 million in 2019. Given the ever-evolving landscape, which includes rising COVID-19 positive case numbers, renewed quarantine restrictions and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) travel health notices, AAA now projects that the actual numbers will be even lower this year.

If you are among those who are healthy and do still plan to travel, make sure you are prepared. Look up state and local guidelines where you are, along your route, and at your destination to learn about any restrictions that may be in place. If you are set to proceed, here are a few preparation tips that will be helpful for any auto journey:

  • Be sure your vehicle is ready for the trip with a service check. Things to inspect include: battery, brakes, wipers, lights, oil, coolant, fluids, and tire pressure.
  • Download an app like GasBuddy to help you find the best gas prices along the way.
  • Be sure your maps are current, whether it’s updating your GPS or getting the good old paper kind.
  • When packing the car, you may need to remove things you normally keep in the trunk in order to make room for crockpots, casserole dishes, and luggage. Just be sure not to leave behind your roadside emergency items such as jumper cables or a folding shovel.

Have a safe road trip and healthy Thanksgiving holiday!

Don’t Get Stuck In a Scary Situation – Take Care of Your Car!

Don’t Get Stuck In a Scary Situation - Take Care of Your CarMost of us associate October with Halloween and Trick or Treat, but did you know that October is also Fall Car Care Month? The Car Care Council recommends that you take care of your car with a seasonal maintenance visit so you can avoid the potentially scary situation of a breakdown leaving you stranded. 

Regular vehicle maintenance is  essential for assuring the safety and dependability of your vehicle. Fall Car Care Month is the perfect time to take care of your car with some much needed attention before the punishing winter weather sets in. 

The AAA Exchange offers this checklist as a guide to what items you should have inspected to take care of your car fall maintenance needs: 

Battery, Terminals, Cables, & Charging System – Have your technician test the battery and charging system. Confirm that the battery terminals and cable ends are free from corrosion and the connections are tight.

Drive Belts & Engine Hoses – Have the underside of accessory drive belts checked for cracks or fraying. The cooling system hoses should also be inspected for leaks, cracks, brittleness, or loose clamps. 

Brakes – If your car has been showing signs of a brake problem, have the system inspected by your technician to ensure all components are in proper working order.

Tires – Have your tires inspected and replace any tire that has less than 3/32-inches of tread. Uneven tire wear may be a sign of improper alignment or wheel balance, or even an indication of suspension problems. Have all of these things checked if your tread is wearing too fast.

Tire inflation pressure should be checked, as well. Did you know that tire pressure drops as temperatures drop? Pressure should be checked more frequently in fall and winter.

If you plan to get winter tires, now is the time.

Fluid Levels – This is another thing you can check yourself. If your coolant is low, add a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water. If you don’t need to add fresh coolant, you should test the effectiveness of the coolant in your tank. You can buy a tester or ask your technician to test it for you.

Fill the windshield washer fluid tank with a winter cleaning solution that contains antifreeze elements to prevent it from freezing.

Check the transmission, brake and power steering fluids to ensure they are at or above the minimum required levels.

Air Filter – You can check your air filter by holding it up to the light. If there is no visibility through it, it should be replaced. If you are not sure, have your technician check it when your other services are being done.

Lights & Wiper Blades – Verify that all headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and back-up lights are functioning properly. Replace any wiper blades that leave streaks or miss spots. If you see a lot of snow in your area, you can install winter wiper blades that wrap the blade frame in a rubber boot to reduce ice and snow buildup.

 

Holiday Gifts for Drivers

Do you still have some people to shop for on your Christmas list? Friends or family members who have you stumped for ideas? Consider an auto-related gift! Just about everyone drives, and sometimes items for the car are things people just don’t think to buy for themselves. If your loved ones own a car, they are likely to appreciate something from our list below. 

christmas-car-3739323_1280

Auto Service Gift Certificates

Let someone know you care about them by making it a little easier for them to stay safe on the road. Check with auto service pros in their area to see if they sell gift certificates. If you know someone who needs a new set of tires, a gift certificate from a local tire dealer will be a much appreciated gift!

Car Wash Coupons

Even those who prefer to do their own washing will appreciate having these in the winter. Keeping a clean car is especially important in the cold weather months when the roads are covered in salty slush.

Auto Mats

Custom fitted, all-season rubber floor mats are a great gift idea for pet owners, parents with small children, and anyone who likes to eat and drink on the go.

Car Parking Sensor System

Trying to park a large vehicle is a small or crowded garage can be very stressful. A car parking sensor system makes the job much easier and will help drivers avoid scratches and dings.

Car Vacuum

A quality portable vacuum cleaning makes keeping a clean ride so much easier. There are a variety of options available at a wide range of price points.

Car Windshield Snow Cover & Sun Shade Protector

Drivers who have their car parked outside all day will appreciate this all-season windshield protection. This easy-to-install protector keeps the car cool in the summer and free of ice and snow in the winter.

Emergency Kit and Folding Shovel

A roadside emergency kit is a great item to keep in the trunk along with a folding shovel. Too often drivers are not prepared for roadside problems, so this gift could be a lifesaver!

Digital Tire Pressure Monitor

Keeping tires properly inflated is essential for assuring safe driving and preserving tire tread. A digital tire pressure monitor makes checks easy. This is especially great for drivers of older cars, which may not have TPMS.

Portable Air Compressor

This is not only a great emergency item to keep in your car, a portable air compressor will be useful for filling a leaking tire until it can be fixed. It is also great for other jobs like inflating a camping mattress.

Car Cellphone Charger and Holder

Drivers who use their phones for GPS directions or like to make hands-free calls on the road might like a cell phone holder and a car charger. While some newer vehicles have built in phone connection technology, there are plenty of drivers who do not yet have that feature.

Here’s hoping your shopping goes smoothly, and that your holidays are merry and bright!