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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.