How to Simplify Your Driving Life

Resolutions do not only pertain to yourself, but also concern to your vehicle. This year take the time to not only think about how you can better yourself, but also how to can make your vehicle more efficient, clean, and running steady. Here a few useful tips to help your vehicle and to bring in the New Year.

1.     Take the time to organize

By keeping your vehicle clean you will be able to keep organized and will help to start the New Year off on the right foot.

2.     Be a more cautious driver

We all know to well when we are driving that there are many other motorists who are not as careful. Take the time to take a second look and slow down when driving.

3.     Ease on the road rage

Everyone wants to start the New Year off on the right foot, but screaming at the vehicle in front of you is not always the best way to begin. Take a depth breath and take the time to look at your actions before you cause an accident.

4.     Check your tire pressure

Take the time to check the air pressure in your tires cannot only help to save on gas mileage, but also can prevent serious issues such as a blowout.

5.     Schedule for regular checkups

Taking your vehicle into the shop can help prevent further issues and will keep your car running smoothly throughout the entire year.

By taking the time to follow these small resolutions throughout the year, will help keep your vehicle and you happy throughout the New Year.

How to Keep Your Car Clean During the Holidays

-->

During the holiday season, our vehicles can certainly take a toll from the constant usage, quick runs for food, and all those last minute gift getting. Here are some simple tips to keep your vehicle clean this holiday season.

1.Clean out while you are at the pump

Take the time to clean out all of the unnecessary receipts, food, and other garbage that may be floating around your car. Keeping the interior clean will not only help in the look of your vehicle, but will also keep you sane around this crazy holiday period.

2. Get the kids involved

Driving around with your children can sometimes be difficult in keeping your vehicle clean, but that does not have to be the case. By getting the kids involved will not only help you, but will also help them in teaching them some organization, and cleaning skills and encouraging them to be on their best behavior for the holidays. It’s all about creating happy holiday memories.

3. Keep a trash in your vehicle

We all have trash that we have to throw away, so why not keep a small bag or bin in your vehicle. By having a trash bin will help to keep the unnecessary junk in one place.

4.Organize your trunk

Our trunks often take a hard hitting and many times will be occupied with unnecessary objects. By taking the time to organize your trunk you can have plenty of room for all of those presents and keep the interior of your car clean.

5.Cover the coffee and snacks

With all the constant quick runs that you may be doing be sure to cover your coffee and keep food in closed containers. Not only will this save you time from having to clean up a spill, but you will also be able to enjoy that quick boost of energy.

By keeping your vehicle clean, you can let yourself a happy and have a productive holiday season this year. Happy Holidays!

Quick Car Maintenance Tips!

 

 

Who really “enjoys” visiting the mechanic, besides the part-time grease monkey who loves working on his souped-up coupe?  That’s right, NO ONE.  It’s a draining expense that is required to get you from point a to point b.  However, car maintenance is a vital tool in maintaining the life of your car.  In today’s blog, we provide some quick tips to give your vehicle a long prosperous life and avoid the junkyard. 

Octane Overdose

Applying octane to your vehicle can be a sticky situation.  Some is good, but more is troublesome.  Higher-than-required octane does not yield more power, it just gives more funds to oil companies.  Some engines are rated for premium 91 octane but can burn 87 octane regular.  So, run regular gas if you drive nominal or normal speeds and premium if you’re a speed demon. 

Oil Change Timing

Every 3,000 miles.  It’s been instilled in you since you started driving hot wheel cars in elementary school.  Today, engine design has made that number obsolete.  Some cars call for 5,000-mile change intervals, some up to 15,000-mile stints. Others have a variable timer. Follow the schedule and use the oil called for by the manufacturer.

Dead Tires

Tires wear out and they also die out.  A useless tire is extremely dangerous.  Heat, sunlight and ozone conditions all contribute to the wear and tear of your tires.  The tire industry says that tires last about 5 years but it really depends on so much more.  The industry agreement is about 7 years, but you can check with your mechanic to see how old your tires are.  They’ll be able to see the time stamp code in the sidewall.

Got your own tip you want to ad?  Feel free!

Is There Really a Difference at the Pump?

I know, you’ve been there, done that.  Deciding which gas to fill up with can be difficult; you can sometimes find yourself at the pump thinking about which fuel to fill your car up with.  Whether you’re driving an SUV, compact car, or super car, each type of gas performs differently.  When you arrive at the gas station you fill up on unleaded gas, with three options: octane, special additives, and ethanol content. In today’s blog, we’re discussing the several options of gas purchase for when you’re at the pump. 

Octane

Octane has three options: 87, 89, and 92.  Large engines perform well on 87 octane, smaller cars do well with 89, and high performance cars run perfect on 92 octane.  The higher the octane rating the more compression the fuel can handle before it ignites.  If your engine begins to knock, then fuel is igniting from the compression, not from the spark.  Thus, damaging your engine.  If this continues to occur, it’s time to buy higher-octane gas.

Special Additives

Special Additives are beneficial because their utilized by fuel companies to keep the inside of the engine clean.  For example, Exxon uses high amounts of additives in their gas to keep your system clean.  All the major gas companies use detergent additives to help keep the engine clean, so this should not really be a consideration. 

Ethanol content

The final option is ethanol content.  The lower the ethanol content, the better the fuel will burn in your engine, providing a longer life for your engine.  Ethanol is also good because it improves fuel economy, sometimes giving up to a 20% boost. 

Saving the planet, saving money, or prolonging the life of your car?  These are all great options to consider, give us your feedback!

Easily Check Your Oil Level

As a daily driver, one thing consumers should know how to do is check their oil.  It’s a quick, efficient way to avoid risk damage to your engine and ensuing repair costs.

Steps:

1. Make sure the engine is hot, this way the oil is less viscous and the maximum amount of oil is in the sump. This allows for a more accurate check.
2. Open the car hood and locate the oil dipstick and pull it out.
3. Dry off the dipstick and dip it once more into the hole.
4. Make sure the oil level is between minimum and maximum. If under minimum, add oil.

Also, here are some common myths when it comes to motor oil:

Phil Smith Chevrolet Hosts Caribbean Festival

Caribbean Festival

Sunday

NOON - 6PM

Phil Smith Chevrolet 

1640 N State Rd. 7

Lauderhill, FL 33313

Phil Smith Chevrolet is hosting its First Annual Caribbean Festival at the Automotive Dealership on October 14th! Attendees can enjoy FREE food and games, as well as festive caribbean music and dancing.  Come join Phil Smith Chevrolet and enjoy the excitement of family and friends under one BIG roof! 

R.S.V.P (it's TOTALLY Free!): http://www.facebook.com/events/409484935785552/

How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

Did you know that long trips are actually EASIER on your vehicle than day-to-day driving? If you’re thinking about taking a road trip with family or friends, a few simple tips will stave off many common problems.  So start early and check out the tips below:

Take care of major repairs: If your car needs anything, our technicians are always available.  Make sure that any major repairs are taken care of at least a month before your trip. 

Check the coolant: Is your destination warmer than home?  Have us check your antifreeze and water mixture to ensure your car is running smoothly.

Check the tires: Make sure they are inflated to the proper pressure because low pressure can cause extra heat buildup that can lead to a blowout at high speeds.  Checks the tire tread. Put a penny; edge on with Lincoln's head pointing down, in one the grooves of the tire. If you can see the space above Abe's head, it's time for new tires.  Also CHECK THE SPARE!

These are just a few tips for your traveling.  Do you have any to add?