Thursday, December 29, 2011

Holiday Travel Season Isn't Over Just Yet....




Six Tips for Traveling with Your Pets
Let's face it; you're probably going to have to do more traveling before the holidays are over. Bringing your pets along is sometimes a necessity. If you're planning a trip with Fido, here's what you can do to help make the trip safe and enjoyable.  (Note:  It is definitely NOT recommended for you to put your dog in a regular seat belt.  We just thought this was an amusing image.)  
1.Dogs and cats need to be secured properly, both for their safety and yours. The first and best option is to crate your animal for the duration of the trip. For large animals, a more feasible option is to use a special harness that attaches to your vehicle's seatbelt. Crates and harnesses are available at your local pet store.
2.The ASPCA cautions against allowing pets to ride with their heads out the window of a moving vehicle. Not only do they risk being hit with a flying object, but they are also at risk of inner ear damage and lung infections.
3.The noises and movement from car travel make many pets anxious. This anxiety can be expressed through barking, shaking, excessive drooling or even vomiting. Prepare your pets for a long trip well before you plan to leave. Start slowly by getting them used to being in the car. Once they are a little more comfortable, condition them with short trips around the block, gradually extending the duration of these trips. If your pet still suffers car anxiety, talk to your veterinarian about medications. Also consider keeping stain and odor remover in the trunk, just in case of an accident.
4.Don't feed your pet right before you plan to leave. Instead, give him or her a light meal a few hours in advance. Never feed your pet in a moving vehicle.
5.Just as you will on a long trip, your pet will need periodic pit stops and stretch breaks, too. Bring along a leash, water and small treats, as well as a favorite toy the pet can play with for some exercise.
6.If you're planning overnight hotel stays, be sure to check in advance whether the hotel has pet-friendly policies.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Take a Christmas Drive and See the Sights....

Jiffy Lube of Indiana wants to extend warm wishes to all our clientele this holiday season.  And in the spirit of driving and the holidays, invite you to get in the car and enjoy some of the state's most spectacular light shows, from the warmth of your own vehicle.  Follow the links for more information, and use this coupon for a Signature Service Oil Change to keep your car running smoothly and reliably throughout the season. 





http://www.kamplights.com/
http://www.notenoughlights.com/
http://in-sw.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=INSW_Ritzys_Fantasy_of_Lights

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Understand Your Vehicle

In order to fully appreciate why your car needs regular preventive maintenance from Jiffy Lube, one needs first to understand how their vehicle works.  Jiffylube.com has an interactive feature that helps break down your car and it's parts.  To explore, click on the link below.
And make sure you take advantage of this coupon, and get a Signature Service Oil Change.  You'll be glad you did.

http://www.jiffylube.com/education/howcarswork/howcarswork.aspx

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Tips for traveling this Holiday Season

Four Tips for Holiday Travel with Children
The highways will be crowded this holiday season with drivers making their way to holiday feasts, shopping malls and family visits. If you're planning a trip with children, here are four tips to make the drive safe and enjoyable:
1.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends children sit in the back seat and be buckled-up properly.
Infants (under 20 lbs.) should ride in rear-facing convertible seats with harness straps at or below shoulder level.
Toddlers (20-40 lbs.) should ride in forward-facing convertible seats with harness straps at or above shoulders.
Young children (more than 40 lbs.) should ride in a forward-facing booster seat with the lap belt fitting across the upper thighs and shoulder belt snug across the chest.
2.One of the best ways to keep your family safe is to stay awake during your trip. The National Sleep Foundation and the AAA Foundation recommend the following:
Get a good night's sleep before your trip — 7-9 hours for adults and 8 ½-9 ½ hours for teens
Make sure a passenger is awake to talk to the driver.
Avoid medications that can impair performance.
Recognize signs of fatigue: lane drifting, hitting rumble strips, repeated yawning, tailgating, difficulty focusing.
Schedule stops every two hours or 100 miles.
3.Bring along toys, books and video games to keep the kids busy. If you're planning a long drive, be prepared for frequent bathroom and food stops.
4.If your child gets car sick, check with your doctor about possible medications to bring on the trip. To minimize the risk of carsickness, try driving at a constant speed, cracking a window, and feeding light snacks along the way to prevent the need for a heavy meal.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Come Visit Us!


Find an Indiana Jiffy Lube service center near you for a Signature Service Oil Change, or one of our many other services.  They can include (but are not always offered at all locations):
Signature Service Oil Change
Automatic Transmission Service
Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Differential Service
Engine Air Filter Replacement
Fuel Filter Replacement
Radiator Antifreeze/Coolant Service
Serpentine Belt Replacement
Tire Rotation Serive
Transfer Case Service

Get the full street addresses, store hours and phone numbers for Indiana Jiffy Lube locations, and call to make sure the location you're considering is offering the services needed. Click HERE for more info:


http://www.jiffylubeindiana.com/locations.htm

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Let a Jiffy Lube SSOC Make Your Holiday Travel Safer

If you are planning to leave town--and statistics show Americans are hitting the roads this season in droves--make sure your car is safe.  Just in time for the holiday, Jiffy Lube is offering a discount for Indiana area customers to receive the legendary Jiffy Lube Signature Service Oil Change (SSOC).  If you need more motivation, just consider that this should be the last time a healthy vehicle will need an oil change this year, and a good SSOC will take you through all the holidays, including New Years. 
Jiffy Lube Indiana and all it's franchisees wish their customers the very best, and safest, of Thanksgivings. 






Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Indiana State Police Want You to be Safe This Holiday

The state of Indiana wants, and expects, you to drive safely this upcoming Thanksgiving weekend.  Jiffy Lube of Indiana encourages you to stay sober and keep your car maintained for optimum driving conditions.

http://www.news25.us/story/15997027/indiana-state-police-to-increase-presence-during-thanksgiving


By Mike Fehn - bio | email
EVANSVILLE - Thanksgiving is just a couple of weeks away, and Indiana State Police want motorists to know they will be out in full force, looking for impaired drivers.

Beginning Friday, November 11th, State Police, along with nearly 300 other Indiana law enforcement agencies, will take part in the annual Click it or Ticket Safe Family Travel campaign.
The campaign will include sobriety check points and saturation patrols, targeting impaired and unrestrained drivers.
In 2010, 754 people died on Indiana roads.  Of those, 54 percent were found to be unrestrained.
Indiana State Police offer the following tips to ensure a safe holiday season for everyone:
  • If you are planning to travel, make sure you are well rested, a fatigued driver is a dangerous driver.
  • Avoid tailgating; remember the two-second rule.
  • Make sure everyone is buckled up.
  • Don't use your cell phone while driving.
  • Don't drink and drive
  • Move over and slow down for emergency and highway service vehicles.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

The Gift of Maintenance

Okay, so, maybe we can't all realistically afford to give brand new cars to our loved ones for Christmas.  But we can all do the next best thing:  preventive maintenance.  Give gift cards (at www.jiffylube.com) for those in your life who own a car they'd like to keep well-maintained and driving long into the future.  And don't forget your own vehicle!  It takes care of you, getting you where you need to be, day in and day out.  Give your own car a well deserved and much needed Signature Service Oil Change for the holidays.




Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Have You Changed Your Oil Recently?

Here are three valuable Jiffy Lube Signature Service Oil Change coupons to help get you on your way this holiday season!

This service is available at these Jiffy Lube locations in Indiana. Please visit our LOCATIONS page for specific addresses, phone numbers and links to maps of nearby Jiffy Lube service centers.
INDIANA
Anderson, IN
Avon, IN
Bloomington, IN
Brownsburg, IN
Carmel, IN
Columbus, IN





Crawfordsville, IN
Fishers, IN
Greenfield, IN
Greenwood, IN
Indianapolis, IN

Kokomo, IN
Marion, IN
Muncie, IN
New Castle, IN
Noblesville, IN 

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Have a safe and fun Halloween, from your local Indiana Jiffy Lubes

http://alerts.nationalsafetycommission.com/2009/10/holiday-driving-halloween-safety-tips.php


Holiday Driving: Halloween Safety Tips

The chill is in the air. Orange is the dominant color and kids are beginning to think of their plans for October 31st. Before you go out shopping for costumes and buying bags of candy this year, spend a few minutes planning the night ahead. 

Identify what type of celebrations will be taking place and where they will be located. Not only will it help determine your plans, it will help you be an aware driver as you travel on the roadways. If you will be attending a party, plan for a designated driver or commit to not drink. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your judgment and driving. Driving under the influence can kill or cause trauma, be expensive and embarrassing. 

When costume planning, make sure that all costumes fit appropriately and will not restrict movement or visibility, either as a pedestrian or behind the wheel. Ensure foot wear is sturdy. Tripping, falling, difficulty steering or braking can be dangerous! 

Add reflective tape to costumes and replace flash light batteries to ensure you will be visible, whether escorting trick or treaters or attending an event yourself. Confirm any children you are with have flashlights, glow stick, bright candy bags, and reflective tape on costumes as well. Clear up any yard obstructions, water hoses, and overgrown vegetation to make it easier to see and maneuver for both pedestrians and vehicles. 

Know your planned route, to avoid the unexpected. Plan to travel in well lighted areas. If walking, use sidewalks and crosswalks. If driving, avoid areas of heavy pedestrian traffic and park in areas with the greatest visibility. Design alternate routes that will provide the least amount of risk and the most amount of safety. Arrange to give yourself extra time to and from your destination. 

Halloween is on Saturday this year, so expect the festivities to begin early in the day and prepare to be a defensive driver. If you can, avoid driving on Halloween. 

Be alert for kids playing in costumes during the day, darting from house to house or in between parked cars. Pay special attention beginning at 4:30pm for the younger treat seekers. Turn your head lights on to make your vehicle more visible. Drivers need to be especially diligent driving during dusk through the night time as visibility is reduced. 

Reduce distractions. Make sure your cell phone is on silent, your radio volume is low and your passengers are aware to minimize distractions and assist with being alert to the surrounding environment. 

Be extra cautious as you pull into and leave driveways, parking lots and alleys for children that may dart out between cars, at roadways, medians and on curves. Be sure to check your blind spots thoroughly and maintain a search and scan of the driving environment every three seconds. 

Travel well below the posted speed limit. Be extra patient with pedestrians and other vehicles and always be prepared to stop at a given moment. They may be carrying trick or treaters and be distracted. Avoid passing or going around stopped vehicles. They may have passengers entering and exiting hurriedly and carelessly. 

Halloween can truly be a fun night full of great memories! Take a few steps to keep it safe and trouble free.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Dress Up Your Car

Proof that even your car can dress up for Halloween, with a little bit of creativity :)

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Indiana Officially Bans Texting While Driving

This summer, Indiana took a big step and banned texting while driving.  If caught, you now could face up to $500 in fines.  That's one (shallow) reason to avoid it.  But don't stop texting while driving because you're worried about a fine.  Do it because you value your safety and the safety of those around you :)

Read more at the link below.
http://reason.com/blog/2011/07/01/indiana-bans-texting-while-dri

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Indiana Weather Conditions--Keep Safe!

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) manages a program called TrafficWise.  As the weather conditions steadily grow more unstable, it's a good idea to check out TrafficWise for updated reports of U.S. Highways, Interstates, and State Roads in Indiana.  You can learn more about INDOT's TrafficWise by visiting this link,
http://www.in.gov/indot/2420.htm
or by going straight to the site at
http://indot.carsprogram.org/main.jsf

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Comdata Corporation Joins Jiffy Lube Fleet Care Program

Media Contacts:
Jessica Anselmi, 617-939-8318 janselmi@coneinc.com
Virginia Sanchez, 713-546-6272 virginia.q.sanchez@shell.com
Pair Offering a Customized Approach to Fleet Preventive Maintenance
HOUSTON, September 21 2011 — Today, Jiffy Lube International – the company that pioneered the quick lube industry – announces the addition of Comdata Corporationto its roster of Jiffy Lube Fleet CareSM Program providers. By providing Comdata customers with a discount on maintenance services, Comdata is looking to Jiffy Lubeto help deliver value-added solutions in the preventive maintenance space and offer customers a broader variety and consistency of services.
“A relationship with Jiffy Lube delivers significant value to our customers,” said Steve Stevenson, president of Comdata. “As we expand our maintenance program for our fleet customers, Comdata looks to trusted brands like Jiffy Lube to provide top-notch, quality services to our fleets nationwide. It’s a natural fit and we are very excited about the relationship.”
Jiffy Lube makes it easy for Comdata’s fleet customers to service their vehicles. Comdata – a leader in corporate payment innovations and a subsidiary of Ceridian Corporation – will offer fleet customers participating in their maintenance program access to Jiffy Lube service centers across the country. By participating in Comdata’s program, customers will receive discounts at more than 2,000 Jiffy Lube service centers nationwide. This gives drivers convenient access to fast, professional preventive maintenance services for their vehicles, while providing cost-saving advantages to Comdata’s fleet customers.
“We’re continually working to make fleet care a seamless experience for our customers – and subsequently, their customers,” said Mike McFadden, fleet sales manager for Jiffy Lube International. “Our relationship with Comdata takes us one step further in that direction.”
The Jiffy Lube Fleet CareSM Program is a valuable resource for fleet preventive maintenance needs; visit JiffyLube.com for more information about the Jiffy Lube Fleet CareSM Program and to find oil change coupons and promotions, Jiffy Lube news articlescommunity involvement programs and events, franchise informationand employment opportunities. Also, anyone can visit the Jiffy Lube Facebook community, “Keeping My Ride Alive,” to view photos and stories from drivers committed to extending the life of their vehicles, as well as upload photos and stories of their own.
About Jiffy Lube®
Jiffy Lube International, Inc. (“Jiffy Lube”), with more than 2,000 franchised service centers in North America, serves approximately 24 million customers each year. Jiffy Lube pioneered the fast oil change industry in 1979 by establishing the first drive-through service bay, providing customers with fast, professional service for their vehicles. Headquartered in Houston, Jiffy Lube is a wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Shell Oil Company. Visit www.JiffyLube.com to learn more about Jiffy Lube and vehicle care.
About Comdata Corporation
Comdata Corporation is a leading business-to-business provider of innovative electronic payment solutions. As an issuer and a processor, the company provides fleet, corporate payment, virtual card, and prepaid solutions to over 30,000 customers. There are more than seven million Comdata Cards, enabling more than $31 billion in transactions annually. Comdata captures and reports detailed transaction data, giving customers unprecedented control over their expenses. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee with more than 1,000 employees in the United States and Canada, Comdata is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ceridian Corporation. www.comdata.com.


Thursday, September 15, 2011

Keep Your Vehicle in Shape this winter.

Jiffy Lube Tips to Keep Your Vehicle in Shape and Improve Fuel Economy

 Vehicles were not intended to hibernate during the winter. Jiffy Lube® maintenance experts offer the following advice to get vehicles into shape for colder temperatures and to save money on fuel.
Keep the Juices Flowing
Replace vital fluids such as motor oil, differential fluid and transmission fluid according to the vehicle manufacturers' time and mileage recommendations.
Motor oil is an engine's lifeblood, reducing friction between moving parts and cleaning away harmful dirt and contaminants in the engine. Generally, drivers should use the lightest grade of oil their vehicle manufacturer recommends for the conditions they drive in. During the winter, this may mean an even lighter grade than usual. The right motor oil grade can save an average of three cents per gallon of gasoline.
Antifreeze and coolant are also important in colder temperatures to keep the engine from freezing.
Breathe Easy
The air filter is like a vehicle's lung, helping the engine breathe as it burns fuel. When the filter gets clogged with dirt, leaves or other contaminants the engine has to work harder to pull clean air into the cylinders, reducing fuel economy.
Air filters should be periodically inspected and changed. A new one can save an average of 11 cents per gallon of gasoline.
Amp Up the Energy
A weak battery is unreliable and may take longer to start on frigid winter mornings. According to the American Automobile Association, a battery can lose 35 percent of its power at 32 F and 60 percent of its power at 0 F.
Have the battery tested at the beginning of the season to make sure it has enough power to withstand the cold. To minimize strain, start the car with the heater, lights and window defrosters turned off.
Stay Pumped
Under-inflated or worn tires are common problems that can be dangerous on slick, icy roads. Under-inflated tires create extra friction where the rubber meets the road, making them wear faster and unevenly. This impacts the vehicle's traction and can possibly lead to dangerous blowouts. Properly inflated tires also provide better cushion between potholes and the tire rim, lessening the risk of wheel alignment damage.
Tire pressure should be checked regularly and filled to the recommended level. This information is usually located in the vehicle owner's manual or on a sticker in the doorjamb, trunk or glove box. Correct tire pressure is vehicle-specific, not tire-specific, so do not use the pressure listed on the sidewall of the tire.
Correctly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by about three cents per gallon of gasoline.
Keep an Eye on the Prize
Windshield washer fluid is critical for good visibility since it helps clear away ice, road salt and dirt. Add more when the reservoir is low.
Wiper blades should glide smoothly across the windshield so they do not leave streaks or blind spots. If there are pits or rough patches on the part that touches the glass, the blade needs to be replaced.
Be Prepared
A properly packed emergency kit is essential during the winter. It should contain a flashlight, extra batteries, water, flares, blankets, a shovel, a snowbrush, an ice scraper and tire chains, where they are allowed by law. Kitty litter or sand can be spread under tires to get better traction when starting from an ice patch or in the snow.
Jiffy Lube service centers are conveniently located throughout North American and can help drivers get their vehicles in shape for the winter months. A Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change takes only minutes to perform and includes up to five quarts of fresh motor oil and a new oil filter. It also features a fuel efficiency review that includes an assessment of air filters and tire pressure, among other preventive maintenance services.
Jiffy Lube, with more than 2,200 service centers in North America, serves approximately 30 million customers each year. Jiffy Lube pioneered the fast oil change industry in 1979 by establishing the first drive-through service bay, providing customers with fast, professional service for their vehicles. Headquartered in Houston, Jiffy Lube International is a wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Shell Oil Company.
Visit www.jiffylube.com to learn more about Jiffy Lube and vehicle care.
* Savings estimates based on a $2.00 (USD) cost per gallon of gasoline and government and independent studies.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

400,000 miles? With Jiffy Lube, it's possible.

400,000 miles??
Drivers Determined to Achieve Higher Mileage
Nearly Unanimous, National Survey Reveals Drivers View Oil Changes as Key to Vehicle Longevity

HOUSTON – Roy Lindahl has been driving his white Jeep® Cherokee since the day they drove off the lot together seventeen years ago. He and his vehicle, affectionately nicknamed "Jeepy," recently reached a major milestone when the odometer hit 400,000 miles. It was a proud moment for Lindahl, who has kept Jeepy on a regular preventive maintenance schedule for years to ensure his reliable companion takes him where he wants to go for years to come. It's been a habit well practiced for Lindahl, who has surprised even maintenance technicians with his Jeep's impressive condition and mileage.
An auto mechanic as a teen, and engineer by trade, Lindahl has seen the impact that neglect can have on a vehicle first hand and he has passed the importance of proper maintenance on to the next generation. His son, who has inherited his passion for vehicles, recently showcased his own restored vehicle in a hometown parade and practices the same dedication to maintenance. It's no surprise that Lindahl and his son are not the only drivers looking to hold onto their vehicles as long as possible. A recent survey conducted by Jiffy Lube International (JLI) reveals that more than half of U.S. drivers hope to have more than 150,000 miles on their vehicle before replacing it, and more than a quarter aspire to clock 250,000 miles or more.
"It just goes to show that regular care of your vehicle pays off – you get out what you put in," said Lindahl who regularly visits the Jiffy Lube service center in his hometown of Lafayette, CA for maintenance. "I must be doing something right because Jeepy just keeps on going. I'm hoping that one day we'll hit the million-mile mark together."
Drivers Want More
The impact of more difficult economic times can be seen in many places including on the road. The average age of a vehicle on the road continues to rise year after year. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the average automobile in operation has aged almost three years since 1990†. In addition, the majority of vehicles on the road (at nine years old) have logged 110,000 miles, according to NPD's Car Care Trac.
As drivers hold onto their vehicles longer, they are looking for better and easier ways to help protect their vehicle's life. The JLI survey reveals that though drivers universally acknowledge that regular maintenance can help extend the life of their vehicle, many are looking for more out of their maintenance experience. In their desire to extend the life and value of their vehicle, drivers are seeking convenient ways to help them maintain it. More services and convenience are top priorities, with nine out of 10 people surveyed agreeing that having other key vehicle parts and fluids checked during their regular oil change is the most convenient way for them to help preserve their vehicle's value.
While most drivers know what they want out of their maintenance experience, many aren't getting everything they're looking for. In fact:
- 99% of those surveyed would like their tire pressure checked during an oil change visit, but only 78% actually receive the service;
- 99% would like their windshield washer fluid filled, but only 74% leave with it filled;
- 86% are looking for vehicle essentials, including brake fluids, belts, exterior lights and wiper blades to be inspected, however only three-quarters leave with these services actually performed.
Nearly one in five Americans believe the most important thing when having their oil changed is being able to have multiple services performed in a single visit, and more than half (59%) want to have their oil changed in 30 minutes or less. For drivers seeking a convenient way to help extend their vehicle's life, a regular preventive maintenance regiment is essential. Jiffy Lube offers the Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change to address these needs, providing drivers with much more than just an oil and filter change. The service includes changing, inspecting, checking/filling and cleaning key vehicle parts and fluids and offers drivers a quick and convenient way to maintain their vehicle. The Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change is a convenient solution that can help drivers preserve the value and longevity of their vehicle.
Keeping My Ride Alive
Keeping a vehicle alive and running beyond its years has long been a source of pride for vehicle owners – particularly in tough economic times. Whether the odometer is sporting double or triple digits, like-minded enthusiasts now have a place to pound their chests and celebrate their high-mileage accomplishments at a new Facebook community, "Keeping My Ride Alive." Visitors can cruise the site to browse photos and stories from other high-mileage drivers, or share their own photos and stories. Newbies to the road, high-mileage heroes and everyone in between are welcome to join the community by "liking" the page and uploading their vehicle's image and story. Visit www.Facebook.com/KeepingMyRideAliveto share your story and read about others.
To find a Jiffy Lube service center in your area, please visithttp://Locations.JiffyLube.com/. Visit JiffyLube.com to find oil change coupons and promotions, Jiffy Lube news articles, community involvement programs and events, franchise information and employment opportunities.
Survey Methodology:
The Jiffy Lube International survey was conducted via telephone interviews during the period of April 8-11, 2010. The survey included a national probability sample of 1,013 adults comprising 507 men, 506 women 18 years of age or older, living in the Continental United States. The survey was conducted by Opinion Research Corporation.
About Jiffy Lube®
Jiffy Lube International Inc. ("Jiffy Lube"), with more than 2,000 franchised service centers in North America, serves approximately 24 million customers each year. Jiffy Lube pioneered the fast oil change industry in 1979 by establishing the first drive-through service bay, providing customers with fast, professional service for their vehicles. Headquartered in Houston, Jiffy Lube is a wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Shell Oil Company. Visit www.JiffyLube.com to learn more about Jiffy Lube and vehicle care.
Royal Dutch Shell plc
Royal Dutch Shell plc is incorporated in England and Wales, has its headquarters in The Hague and is listed on the London, Amsterdam, and New York stock exchanges. Shell companies have operations in more than 100 countries with businesses including oil and gas exploration and production; production and marketing of Liquefied Natural Gas and Gas to Liquids; manufacturing, marketing and shipping of oil products and chemicals and renewable energy projects including wind and solar power. For further information, visit www.shell.com.
Transportation Statistics, 2008: http://www.bts.gov/publications/national_transportation_statistics/2008/html/table_01_25.html

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Get Your Vehicle Ready for Autumn

Visit the experts at www.icarumba.com for timely tips on your car.  http://www.icarumba.com/cobrands/contentmodules/resourcecenter/articles/icar_resourcecenter_articles_readyautumn.asp

Follow these driving and maintenance tips for safer fall driving

By Peter D. duPre

Shorter fall days and cooler weather may have brought relief from summer heat but they are also a signal that it is time for some extra driving caution. As we go through fall and head into winter, the days will get shorter yet, and many of us will start and end our commutes in total darkness. Visibility in the dark is never all that good, and when you throw in an autumn rain, sleet or snow storm, it can drop to almost nothing. 
All of which means that autumn requires a change in your driving habits. Follow these tips for safer driving this fall:
  • School's in session -- With the fall semester in full swing, children are out on the streets earlier than during the summer. Some almost never look for traffic and have a bad habit of bolting out from between parked cars. Keep your eyes peeled and slow down. School zones have reduced speed limits and most police won't allow any speed leeway in these areas.
  • Allow more travel time -- You should always drive slower when it is dark and visibility is reduced. That means your traveling time is increased, especially during inclement weather. Leave a few minutes earlier in the morning and increase your following distance by about a second. 
  • Inclement weather -- Indian summers, clear skies and cooler weather may lull you into a false sense of security but fall weather conditions can change abruptly. Thunder storms, sleet, hail and even snow are not that unusual. Roads covered with a summer's worth of grease become slick when wet or covered with early morning frost, so anticipate those conditions.
  • Check the lights -- In Sweden, Norway and Canada, where fall driving conditions are similar to much of the U.S., there are mandatory-lights laws -- and not coincidentally, a lower accident rate. See and be seen. Drive with your headlamps on, even if it's not dark. Before starting out on any trip, walk around the car and make sure your taillights, parking lights, stop lights, directionals, emergency flashers and headlights are all working properly. Have your mechanic aim and adjust your headlights. New cars are equipped with bright-burning halogen headlights that increase visibility. If you own an older vehicle with standard sealed-beam headlamps, consider converting to halogen lamps. The cost is more than offset by improved visibility and safety.
  • Change the wiper blades -- Safety experts say wiper blades should be changed every 5,000 to 6,000 miles, or twice a year. Most of us don't change the blades even once a year. Check front and rear wipers. Examine the rubber; it should be flexible, without any missing chunks and should clear the glass without leaving any streaks. If the blades aren't performing perfectly, replace them.
  • Check the brakes and tires -- If tires and brakes aren't in good condition, you won't be able to stop on slick roadways. Tires should have plenty of tread on them; if the wear bars are showing, it's time for new rubber. Most tire and brake shops will inspect your tires and brakes for free.  
  • Heater and defroster check -- Fogged-up windows limit visibility and are a safety hazard. Make sure both front and rear defrosters are working properly. Front blower hoses sometimes get knocked off the defroster vents and the electric wire in the rear defogger can break. Most auto parts stores sell special kits to repair these breaks. While you are at it, have your heating system inspected. A cold car is uncomfortable, and a distraction to safe driving.
  • Look under the hood -- Don't get stranded in the dark. Have your mechanic check the condition of the coolant, belts and hoses. Get the chassis lubed, air filter replaced, oil and filter changed and battery inspected. A little work now can save a big towing bill later. You can make an appointment for a fall vehicle inspection right now with iCARumba's Find a Shop tool.
  • Wash and wax -- A vehicle's first line of defense against the elements is a good wash and wax job to protect the metal surfaces from pitting and corroding, and keeps your car looking its best. Get rid of that summer grime and apply a thick coat of protective wax.
  • Relax -- This may seem like a lot to get done before the Monday morning commute, but it really adds up to just a few minutes for the self-inspection, and to make an appointment with your shop if needed. For safety sake, check lights first, then do the tires, brakes, and wiper blades. And in general, simply begin your day 10 minutes earlier, have that second cup of coffee (decaf, please!) and start your commute in a relaxed a state as possible -- good advice at any time of year.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Don't Forget!

Getting your vehicle ready for autumn is important.  Aside from temperature and weather changes, there are also likely changes in your driving schedule.  Make sure to take advantage of this Indiana area coupon towards your next Signature Service Oil Change at Jiffy Lube.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Maintenance Tips: Tires


Tire Tactics
Under- or over-inflation of tires can:
cause uneven tread wear
weaken your tires
reduce traction
impact gas mileage
reduce the number of miles you get out of your tires
Eventually, you could have inconvenient flats or even dangerous blowouts. Over-inflation means the weight of your vehicle is not distributed evenly across the entire tread but is instead concentrated on a thin strip in the center. Under-inflation means the tire is soft and the outside edges work harder than the softer center. The extra rolling resistance makes your vehicle work harder to move and it can reduce gas mileage.
Be sure to check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended pressure listed in your vehicle's owner's manual. You can usually find this recommended pressure on a sticker posted in the trunk, on the door pillar or in the glove compartment.
Each of your tires will wear differently due to its position and the type of vehicle you own. So tires will wear evenly, remember to balance and rotate your tires according to manufacturer's recommendations.
To check tread wear, use "the penny trick:"
1.Insert a penny into the tread groove with Abe Lincoln's face showing, but with his head upside-down.
2.If you can see all of Abe Lincoln's head, it's probably time to replace your tires
If you live in a moderate climate, warming up an engine is not typically necessary. If you live in a freezing climate, you should let the engine run (without pressing the gas pedal) for a few minutes so the oil can circulate through the engine and get it ready to run.

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

6 Driving Tips for Carpoolers


Before trucking the kids around town, parents need to make sure their vehicles are operating safely. These quick tips will help ensure your vehicle is ready to keep up with the kids' busy schedules. From Jiffylube.com.  
1.
Take the vehicle in for routine maintenance. A Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change is a smart first step to prepare your vehicle for back-to-school driving. Your vehicle's engine will likely be working overtime since most carpools require quick trips in heavily trafficked areas. Changing your engine oil, replacing dirty air filters and checking your tire pressure are all important to keep your vehicle on the road, not on the side of it.
2.
Buckle up and make sure your passengers do too. Seat belt use among high school students is lower than among other occupants in passenger vehicles. According to a survey from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, many teens aren't buckling up, even when adults are driving with them and using belts themselves. Teens often follow by example. The study reported that more than half of teens were more likely to buckle up if the adult who dropped them off at school also wore a seat belt. However, when adult drivers did not use seat belts, only 8% of teens used theirs.
3.
Practice proper car seat safety. Some mothers will be taking preschool children along when they drive older children to and from school. Make sure everyone is using proper seat restraints at all times. For infants (from birth to one year and less than 20 lbs.), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends infant-only or rear-facing convertible seats with harness straps at or below shoulder level. The NHTSA says toddlers (over one year and between 20 to 40 lbs.) should be placed in convertible/forward-facing seats with harness straps at or above shoulders. For young children (four to eight years old and more than 40 lbs.), the organization recommends a forward-facing, belt positioning booster seat with the lap belt fitting low and tight across the lap/upper thigh area and the shoulder belt snug across the chest and shoulder. All children aged 12 and under should ride in the back seat.
4.
Be prepared for fall showers. There may be times when you have to make the ride to or from school in a heavy downpour. As part of a Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change, a technician can check the status of your windshield wipers and tire tread. You want to make sure wipers glide smoothly across the windshield without streaking and you're getting enough tire traction on a slippery road.
5.
Talk to your children about where they walk outside of schools. Tell them to always use school crosswalks and sidewalks and be alert at all times. According to the Safe Routes to Schools organization, of the leading types of youth pedestrian crashes, 33% are due to dart-outs — entering traffic mid-block, often between parked cars.
6.
Obey school zone speed limits. Children may not always stay on the sidewalk or within crosswalk lines, so you need to be extra careful. As a lot of morning traffic is comprised of parents driving children to school, so you should also watch out for other vehicles slowing down or suddenly stopping to let children out.

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

100 Years Ago, This is What Your Front Wheel Looked Like

Personally, I'm astounded how far we've come in a relatively short 100 years.  Entirely fascinating.

http://blog.1aauto.com/2011/07/19/100-years-ago-this-was-your-right-front-wheel/?utm_medium=email&utm_term=blog+6&utm_campaign=email-campaign282






In 1911, if you were driving a motorcar, it would likely be a Model T that was sitting on wooden wheels. They were probably between 21 and 24 inches tall, and had a speedometer gear on the back side.  Inflatable tires were still very new to the automotive world, but added huge comfort to the vehicle because of the rough, turn of the century roads.  Wooden wheels like these were the norm up into the late 1920′s when steel took over.  100 years later, this 1911 Model T is running like a top, still rockin’ the wooden dubs, and still wrapped in black paint, like when Henry’s workers originally made it.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Have a Special Occasion Coming Up?


The Jiffy Lube Gift Card®
A great gift for cars. And their owners.
Jiffy Lube Gift Cards® are a great choice for giving to family, friends or just for you! Birthdays, Anniversaries and Holidays are just a few ideas for giving this one of a kind gift card.
Benefits of the Jiffy Lube Gift Card® Include:
No expiration date or fees
The gift card can be set for any monetary denomination ($5 - $300)
Redeemable toward goods or services at any participating Jiffy Lube location

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Keeping Your Ride Alive

Did you know that many cars on the road are over 110,000 miles or over? That's the best reason of all to Keep Your Ride Alive. This can best be done by taking advantage of Jiffy Lube's outstanding service maintenance.



Thursday, July 14, 2011

Insider Discounts for Loyal Jiffy Lube Customers!

Jiffy Lube has now consolidated all it's most valuable money-saving coupons on a variety of services.   This is the place to find the best Jiffy Lube coupons.  Think of it as a "members only" site for those of you smart enough to take advantage of these Insider Discounts.  



http://jiffylubediscounts.com

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Movies and Oil Change Savings?! Believe it!


Gear up for the race of a lifetime
When you purchase the digitally restored Blu-ray or DVD of Steve McQueen's iconic 1971 film Le Mans, you'll receive a coupon for $7 off your next Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change. It's a great benefit for you and your car-even if you don't plan to drive in a grueling, 24-hour-long race in the French countryside.
Offer applies only to the Le Mans Blu-ray and DVD advertised here, at participating retailers, while supplies last. Coupon expires 05/31/2012.