Osceola Garage of Putnam County: Automotive Repair and Consumer News

2012-02-28T14:37:00.000-05:00

SIMPLE, DO-IT-YOURSELF AUTO CARE

We at Osceola Garage believe it's important to keep our customers informed about the importance of regular vehicle maintenance. Follow these simple steps to help ensure top performance, avoid costly repairs, save money, and ultimately encourage vehicle longevity:

Check all lights to ensure proper working condition.

It's important that you're able to see and be seen on the road whether it's day or night. Regularly check the headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure that they are in proper working order, and promptly replace any burned-out bulbs. Though it may seem like a no-brainer, this is one of the easiest steps that you can take to prevent a traffic ticket or even an accident.

Check tire pressures.

Ideally, you should check tire pressures once a week with an air pressure gauge. Aligned, balanced, and properly inflated tires can provide a smoother ride, which in turn can save gas. Additionally, you don't want to get stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire. Slow leaks can be caught by regular pressure checks and repaired to prevent future issues.

Inspect the tire tread for abnormal wear.

Tires are one of the most expensive, most often replaced, and most neglected parts on a vehicle. Every so often, examine your tire treads. If you discover any signs of abnormal or excessive wear, have your tires inspected by the car care professionals at Osceola Garage. Properly aligned and balanced tires last longer, ride better and are critical to steering and braking.

Change the oil, filter, and keep the chassis well-lubricated.

Vehicle owners should aim to change the oil and filter as well as lubricate the chassis as recommended by their vehicle manufacturers, usually every 3,000-5,000 miles (about every 3-6 months), to ensure long engine life and optimal performance.

SMART TIP: Keep a notebook and log the date of each maintenance procedure taken by either yourself or your auto care professional. This will ensure timely maintenance and dually serve as a record for the history of care your vehicle has received.

2012-02-23T11:42:00.000-05:00

Smartphones Now Reach 62%

of Young Adults 25-to-34

Smartphone penetration in the U.S. has not reached that psychologically significant tipping point of 50% quite yet, but among young adults, the needle passed the midway mark long ago.

Nielsen's latest quarterly report on the mobile landscape shows that 62% of U.S. cell phone owners ages 25 to 34 have a phone with an advanced operating system.

Overall, smartphone penetration is at 43%, but a majority of people in the most desirable marketing demos now are running Android, iOS, BlackBerry or Windows OSes. In the college-age segment (18-24), 54% own smartphones, as do 53% of 35- to-44-year olds.

This means that well over 50% of the 18-44 segment are now on smartphones and can be reached via apps or mobile Web. The dropoff in smartphone use after age 44 is sharp, however, with only 39% of the 45-54 segment on advanced devices -- almost on par with the 38% of teens (13-17).

In terms of OS share, Google Android continues its dominance of sheer reach, with 43% of the smartphone market over 28% for Apple's iOS running on iPhone. Adding in other iOS devices like iPads and iPod Touch units would change that figure substantially, but when it comes to the most mobile device of all -- the phone -- Google's share is formidable.

Research in Motion's historic decline continues from market share leadership only a few years ago to a mere 18% of the smartphone OS field now. Windows Mobile has only 7% of the market. But Microsoft's recent partnership with Nokia and a version upgrade that will be pushed in new phones coming to market may give the also-ran another shot at the market in the next quarter.

Smartphone ownership remains the best predictor of mobile media use. Much as always-on broadband penetration reached a tipping point in the mid 2000s and sparked a sharp rise in online video use, social network membership and digital downloading, advanced phone technology invites new classes of mobile media interactivity.

The dramatic increases in app downloading, mobile Web access, social network access, search activity and even ad inventory have paralleled the increased distribution of smart devices as owners seem eager to move many Web operations off their desktop and into their pockets.

(So urce: Online Media Daily, 11/03/11)

Presidents Day

2012-02-20T09:21:00.000-05:00

Washington's Birthday is the official name designated to what many of us know as President's Day. During the month of February the birthday of two of our greatest President's takes place. Both George Washington who was born on Feb. 22nd and Abraham Lincoln born on Feb. 12th.

However, Washington's birthday has been publicly celebrated since he was in office, before Abraham Lincoln was even born. Much of the debate over the name of the holiday springs from the fact that state's can follow their own holidays how they see fit and many of them chose to also honor Lincoln, calling the celebration President's Day.

It was in 1968 that the term President's Day came up for legal consideration in the Congress but was shot down, though the holiday was moved to fall between the two President's birthdays. Again in the 1980's there was a resurgence of the term with advertisers which solidfied the holiday name in American culture. Today, few Americans perfer to call the holiday Washington's Birthday in lieu of President's Day.

Educate yourself and others about the presidents of the United States. At Patriotism.org, we also encourage you to show your patriotism and support our army

Check out my #constantcontact newsletter archive

2012-02-08T14:02:00.000-05:00

Check out my #constantcontact newsletter archive

Distinguished By Delivering the Utmost Customer Repair Experience

2012-02-07T16:44:00.000-05:00

When Joe Marconi finished high school, he did what most recent graduates do: He enrolled in college on the advice of his guidance counselor. But he quickly found out that route to higher education wasn’t for him.

“I was working at a gas station at the time, and I just felt like I didn’t belong in college,” Marconi says. “During the summer in between my second and third semesters, I became very friendly with the mechanics in the shop — this is toward the end of the Muscle Car era, the mid ’70s. A lot of guys had their muscle cars, their GTOs, their Super Sport Impalas and their Malibus. I was going to the track; I was helping them work on their cars. They were older guys. I was 19, and they were in their late 20s.

“When I went back to school, I felt like I was still in high school,” he continues. “One day I just left. I quit school in the middle of a Spanish class.”

But that wasn’t the end of learning for Marconi; far from it. The owner of the garage he was working at encouraged him to keep learning to be the best in his profession.

“He was like a mentor to me,” he says. “He took me to lunch, and he started talking about events that happened in his life. He said, ‘You can do anything you want in life. Education doesn’t have to be limited to college. It can be reading and studying on your own. It took off from there.”

Marconi worked at that gas station for a year until, sadly, the owner passed away at only 50. He worked at a few other gas stations, and, eventually, got a job at a dealership, but he wasn’t happy there either.

Marconi told himself that by the age of 25, he was going to do this on his own, he left the dealership, never looked back and has been on his own for more than 30 years.

Marconi started Osceola Garage in Baldwin Place, NY, with four bays, but quickly expanded to five bays, then six. A large waiting area was added as well, but he says they outgrew the facility. With property available next door, Marconi made the decision to subscribe to a different model, one that has worked well over the years.

“I had this idea that I could build a little bit different business model,” he explains. “My original facility would be for general repair — engines, transmissions, clutches. My new facility, which is a four-bay facility, concentrates more on tires, alignments, maintenance work and oil changes — primarily for people who want to wait for their service. So I’ve got two different businesses in the same location, and it works. It’s a total of 10 bays, and we’re actually going to put on an eleventh bay. And, then I’m actually looking at property about a half hour away to open up another location.”

Shop appearance has always been a top priority for Marconi, something he says is paramount to success in the automotive repair business.

“I’ve had some of the same customers since the first day I opened up the door,” he says. “It’s not about price, it’s not about fancy equipment — they don’t even realize what you do in the back of the shop. It’s about being nice; it’s about always saying yes. It’s about the look of your facility; it’s about the look of your bathrooms. It’s how you treat people; it’s about building relationships. Always put people before profit. Always build relationships. The rest will take care of itself.”

As a result, Marconi says Osceola Garage looks more like a professional building than a repair shop, with an attractive façade that faces the street. The customer service area also has the appearance of a professional office, and even the bathrooms are decorated like in someone’s home, with cleanliness a top priority.

The Golden Rule
“People will judge you more on the look of the facility, and how they are treated, than by what happens in the bays,” he says. “The quality of your work is a given; people expect that. What sets you apart is the customer experience.”

To that end, Marconi tells his service advisors to treat customers as they would a friend or family member; rather than trying to sell, sell, sell, find out how they are, treat them right and let them know what they really need.

“If your best friend came through the door, what would you say first? Would you say we have a sale on shocks today? No, you’d say, ‘Hey, how are you doing? How have you been? How’s the family doing? What’s new in your life?’ Would you actually sell him something? No, if your brother needed brakes, you would just tell him, ‘By the way Tommy, you need brakes.’

“That’s how we attract and retain customers,” he continues. “People know us from our culture. Word-of-mouth is good, too. Every good customer who really likes you will bring in seven to 10 more. If they don’t like you, they’ll tell 700 people about you.”

Believing that customers should be treated as family has evolved into an annual Customer Appreciation Day, a barbecue where small gifts are given away and large items are raffled off. Car clinics are also popular with customers, who leave better educated about preventive maintenance.

That focus on education also applies to the technicians and service advisors who work at Osceola Garage; training is mandatory.

“We have a total of seven technicians, and they’re all ASE-certified,” he says. “I also hold a lot of in-house clinics, and I may even hold classes on basic things like charging systems, anti-lock brakes. We also bring in CARQUEST trainers to do training here, and we enroll in the CARQUEST Technical Institute, where we take four to six classes a year.”

Team Approach
Marconi has also determined how to improve shop productivity, from customer write-up to car delivery, and he’s found a team approach involving all employees has resulted in increased efficiency.

“I have done a lot of research on Six Sigma and the Japanese style of Lean Management,” he explains. “To improve productivity involves identifying the defects in your workflow process. Once you identify a defect, you need to find a way to correct it. It could be as simple as changing the layout of your shop or making sure that equipment and supplies are within reach of the techs. Little by little, each improvement makes the shop more efficient, which will ultimately increase productivity. We also hold team meetings each month to get ideas collectively to improve our workflow process. A team effort is always better than the boss dictating policy.”

It’s that team approach and a family atmosphere that has helped Marconi attract and retain employees throughout the years.

“I’ve learned that employees leave a company mainly because they are not happy,” he says. “It may be because of money, in some cases, but employees are people, and people want to feel appreciated and respected in their workplace. If the culture of your company promotes a friendly, family atmosphere, your employees will find it hard to leave.”

And, as a business owner, Marconi says being successful means being an example of what you expect from your employees — without “ruling with an iron fist.”

“Be the leader of your company,” he says. “Be the one to make strong positive decisions. Be the one people want to follow; not because you’re demanding, but because they want to follow you. If you have people who come in late, who don’t want to be there, look at yourself first: What are you doing? You’d be surprised that some of the problems are not the people around you; it’s you.”

Marconi says he owes much of his business philosophy to management training from Elite Worldwide and Bob Cooper. Having joined in the late ’90s, he says Cooper helped form the code of ethics he runs his business by today. In fact, it helped so much that Marconi now works with Elite as a business coach and has his own group of shop owners that he helps train to run more efficient and profitable businesses.

Marconi also attributes his success to industry and community involvement, serving on several boards and belonging to various community groups in his area, including the TechNet Council, the Car Care Professional Network and the Putnam County Business Alliance.

“I’m also part of the local dealer association for the Westchester-Putnam area, and I serve as an advisory board member for the local trade high school,” he says. “You want to be a focal point in your community. People get to know you; it’s a key factor.”

Leveraging Technology
Also critical to success today is a shop website that not only grabs the attention of would-be customers, but also gives them a snapshot of the services provided, industry certifications and pricing. Marconi says he works hard at search engine optimization to ensure his shop comes up first in web searches.

“People today live in a different world,” he explains. “They know they can go online and look at your website, services that you perform, years in business, location, etc.

“A nice presence on the Web means a lot, particularly to the younger generation,” he continues. “No one goes to the Yellow Pages anymore; they just Google “auto repair in Putnam County.”

To that end, he also started http://www.autoshopowner.com/ a few years ago as an online business forum for automotive shop owners.

“The forum discusses business issues,” he says, “and we have a blog and various downloads to help shop owners. I started the site because I felt that shop owners could benefit from sharing and exchanging ideas and opinions. We have great posts, tips and discussions pertaining to the automotive repair and service business.”

It’s that kind of forward thinking, keeping up with trends both in marketing and in new technology, that have contributed to the longevity of Osceola Garage. Marconi says planning ahead has served him well, and he coaches other shop owners to do the same.

“A shop owner must be a thinker,” he says. “By that, I mean you need to have vision and know where you want to be in the next year, in five years, in 50 years. You must commit yourself to continuous growth and continuous self-improvement. Never settle for being average. It takes a lot more work to be above average, but the rewards are much greater.

“Don’t be afraid of taking chances and never hesitate with a decision out of fear of failure,” he concludes. “We sometimes learn more with one mistake than by doing a bunch of things right. If things don’t work out, don’t let it discourage you. You have just learned valuable information. Try again and again, and eventually you will succeed.”

by Debbie Briggs

contributing editor

NHTSA Revamps Their Research Problems.

2012-02-02T12:52:00.000-05:00

Experts in software and systems engineering, electronics and communications will become integral to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The often complex, interconnected electronics systems now proliferating across most cars and trucks will require the US government that watches over auto safety -- the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) -- to revamp the way it handles and researches problems.

Background: Seven advanced car technologies the government wants now

That was the main conclusion of a report out this week from the National Research Council's Transportation Research Board that stated the NHTSA will need to become more familiar with how manufacturers design safety and security into electronics systems, identify and investigate system faults that may leave no physical trace, and respond convincingly when concerns arise about system safety.

The report recommends a number of improvements NHSTA should make:

NHTSA should set up a standing technical advisory panel of individuals with backgrounds central to the design, development, and safety assurance of automotive electronics systems. Composed of experts on software and systems engineering, human factors, and electronics hardware, the panel should be consulted on relevant technical matters that arise throughout the agency's vehicle safety programs, including regulatory reviews, defect investigation processes, and research needs assessments.

Set up a strategic planning process to guide the agency's fulfillment of these critical responsibilities as cars become more technologically complex. A strategic plan that engages top NHTSA leadership and defines the resources and capabilities required by the agency will help balance the mandate to be both proactive about automotive electronics and responsive to other safety priorities. In the future, the possibility of electronics leading to increasingly autonomous vehicles presents a new set of safety challenges and will demand even more agency planning and foresight.

Conduct a comprehensive review of its Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) to determine the specific capabilities needed to monitor and investigate flaws in electronics-intensive vehicles. The report recommends that NHTSA's research program assist ODI in finding ways to improve consumer complaint reports and other data that the office relies on to identify safety defects in vehicles and to assess their possible causes.

The report also evaluated a number of NHTSA's ongoing rule-making and research initiatives, including the installation of event data recorders (EDRs) on all automobiles to inform safety investigations.

"EDRs should be commonplace in all new vehicles, the report concurs. It also endorses NHTSA's plan to conduct research in areas such as layouts for gas and brake pedals and intuitive designs for keyless ignition systems. It recommends that this study be a precursor to a broader human factors research initiative in collaboration with the automotive industry to ensure that electronics systems and drivers interact safely," the report stated.

The report was generated as a result of the reports of sudden acceleration problems in Toyota vehicles in 2009-2010. NHTSA attributed these events to drivers pressing the gas pedal by mistake and to two other issues -- pedals sticking or becoming trapped by floor mats -- remedied in subsequent safety recalls. Although NHTSA concluded that errant electronic throttle control systems (ETCs) were not a plausible cause, persistent questions led the agency to ask for further investigation by NASA, which supported NHTSA's original conclusion, the council stated.

While it didn't question the finding, it did say it is "troubling" that NHTSA could not convincingly address public concerns about the safety of automotive electronics. Relative to the newer electronics systems being deployed and developed, ETCs are simple and mature technologies. To respond effectively and confidently to claims of defects in the more complex electronic systems, both in present-day and future vehicles, NHTSA will require additional specialized technical expertise.

"It's unrealistic to expect NHTSA to hire and maintain personnel who have all of the specialized technical and design knowledge relevant to this constantly evolving field," said Louis Lanzerotti, Distinguished Research Professor at the New Jersey Institute of Technology and chair of the committee that wrote the report. "A standing advisory committee is one way NHTSA can interact with industry and with technical experts in electronics to keep abreast of these technologies and oversee their safety. Neither the automotive industry, NHTSA, nor motorists can afford a recurrence of something like the unintended acceleration controversy."

Premium Rewards – 10% off Preventive Automotive Maintenance Service

2012-01-23T17:22:00.001-05:00

Regular maintenance is critical to ensure the safety, reliability, drivability, comfort and longevity of a car. During preventive maintenance, a number of parts are replaced to avoid major damage or for safety reasons, e.g. timing belt replacement. The actual schedule of car maintenance varies depending on the year, make, and model of a car, its driving conditions and driver behavior. We recommend following the factory schedule intervals. We will also make service recommendations based on your particular driving habits and needs.

Osceola Garage is glad to offer you exclusive money saving customer rewards program. Receive 10% savings on all future maintenance services. Nationwide road side assistance program, Tire road hazard warranty and more….

Premium Rewards Maintenance Service include: transmission fluid service, antifreeze-coolant service, power steering fluid service, brake fluid service, air filter, cabin filter, fuel system, driveline fluid service, all BP products, air conditioning service, throttle body service, all factory schedule maintenances.

To receive your Premium Rewards card stop by and pickup one and start saving today. To book your appointment you can logon at Osceola Garage or Facebook Fan Page

As us about Oscoela’s Lifetime Protection For Your Car.

Is Your Heater and Defroster Working Properly

2012-01-19T09:37:00.011-05:00

Winter brings snow, ice and cold temperatures. Your car’s heating system is vital to your safety. It not only keeps you warm but keeps the windshield and rear window clear of ice, and from fogging up. Check all the functions of the heater and defroster. Make sure the heater fan motor is working on all speeds and make sure that the heater changes from the defrost mode, heater mode (floor vent) and regular vent. Move the temperature selector from cold too hot to ensure that the heater system is responding correctly. Also, make sure that the rear defroster is working properly. If any of these functions are not operating properly, see your service professional today.

For Seniors, The Age of Your Car is as Important as the Mileage

2012-01-16T10:27:00.000-05:00

Many seniors may only put a few thousand miles per year on their cars, some even less. Low mileage on your car can give you a false sense of security, when it comes to preventive vehicle maintenance. The fact is that time is equally important as the mileage is when determining needed maintenance.

Good mechanics will factor in both time and mileage and will recommend services based more on time than mileage in some circumstances. For instance, under normal conditions the antifreeze may have a factory recommended interval service of 50,000 miles. However, if you are driving a 2002 Toyota with 20,000 miles on the odometer, your mechanic may recommend flushing and replacing the antifreeze, more because of time than mileage.

Other items of concern due to time are tires, belts, hoses, filters, and other fluids. Other components, such as the brake system can also be affected when a vehicle is not used often. To insure your safety and the safety of others on the road, speak to you service professional about preventive maintenance. Remember, it’s not always the mileage, time is also a factor.

Car Care Tips - Winter Driving

2012-01-11T13:33:00.000-05:00

Driving during the winter months can be challenging. Getting stuck on the road is more than an inconvenience in the cold winter months. The only way to lower the odds of a breakdown is through preventive maintenance.

Car batteries typically last 4-6 years and can fail without warning. If you car battery is more than 3 years old, have it tested today.
A leaking muffler can cause exhaust gases to escape into the passenger compartment, and may cause the driver and occupants to become drowsy. This is an unsafe condition.
Tires are important all year round but are your lifeline during a winter storm. If you intend on driving on snowy days, you should consider snow tires.
Test your car’s heater and defroster for the winter months.
Slow down during winter storms. Allow more time for stopping and drive with extreme caution.
Snow storms can cause visibility problems, another reason to slow down and drive with caution.

Stock your car for that ‘just in case’ moment
Stranded by the side of the road can be dangerous in the best of conditions, but when sub-zero temperatures or bad weather is involved, it can be downright deadly. Carrying these supplies may save your life: - a blanket, - jumper cables, - a flashlight, - chains, - a first-aid kit, - a small knife, - flares
- a couple energy bars, - watergloves, ,- small shovel, - waterproof matches, - ice scraper, - a bag of sand or kitty litter to help provide traction if your car is stuck in the snow, and never forget your cell phone.

A little preparation goes a long way to keep your car running smoothly during the winter months. Not only will the right tools and maintenance protect you and your car from the elements, but they will also keep you safe.

January 2012 Automotive Checklist

2012-01-03T14:11:00.000-05:00

A New Year's Resolution For Your Car

A New Year's resolution for your car helps you understand how becoming more organized will help keep your car in top running condition. Look how things like keeping good car repair records and keeping on top of car service reminders, plus some new seasonal car care tips, can help keep your car running longer.

(NewsUSA) - Getting more organized is a common New Year's Resolution -- whether it's a harried taxpayer's pledge to be a better record keeper or a pack rat's promise to de-clutter.

"Getting organized works wonders for the family car," notes Martin Lawson, editorial director for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). "The money saved from approaching your vehicle in a systematic manner is a pretty strong incentive to keep your resolution."

The following tips from Osceola Garage will help motorists get and stay organized.

- Record Keeping.

Keep a copy of every completed work order, from oil changes and brake service to major repairs. In addition to helping document any warranty work, a complete service record is very appealing to potential buyers.

- Service Reminders.

Read your owner's manual and follow the service schedules listed. We send out automatic reminders to our regular customers and other shops will send or should sent out as well.. Many of today's manufacturers include e-mailed reminders and even remote satellite diagnostic reports. Timely, regular maintenance saves money in the long run by helping your vehicle run efficiently.

- Tactical Care.

Don't ignore service-engine lights, poor engine performance, rough handling, fading brakes or other issues that present themselves. Neglect can cost more in the long run by making minor issues worse. For example, brake pads are cheaper and easier to replace than are brake rotors.

- Housekeeping.

Don't use the trunk as a catch-all. Keep only essential items there. Remove roof-top cargo carriers as soon as your trip is over. Less clutter means less weight, which means better gasoline mileage. Keep your vehicle's interior clean of trash and clutter and vacuum the seats and carpeting on a regular basis to prevent premature wear and tear and staining. Wax your car at least once a year to help preserve the paint job (and its resale value).

- Heal Thyself.

Other automotive resolutions are less about your vehicle and more about you. Avoid jackrabbit starts; sudden accelerations waste fuel and are hard on the engine. Slow down; speeding greatly decreases miles per gallon. Hard stops wear out brakes.

Visit www.osceolagarage.com for seasonal car care tips and information about our automotive shop and certified automotive technicians.

Seniors: Winter Driving and Safety Information

2011-12-19T14:28:00.001-05:00

Drivers of All Ages Need to be Prepared for Winter Driving Conditions

While Older Driver Safety Awareness Week just wrapped up, it's still important to think about the concerns of seniors behind the wheel, especially as driving conditions become more treacherous for all drivers as winter sets in.

Today’s seniors are not much different than any other age group when it comes to their cars. Winter weather may be an inconvenience but everyone needs their car to get around. Your car is more than a luxury, it’s a necessity. More and more seniors are remaining active and consider their car an important part of lifestyle. Yet, no matter how active and healthy you stay your driving skills will change as you age. However, this doesn’t need to stand in the way of safe, enjoyable winter driving.

Senior drivers should follow vehicle safety practices, and take some extra precautions designed to compensate for their changing driving abilities. Also, vehicle maintenance is even more important in the winter, when frigid temperatures could turn a break down into a life-threatening situation. Plan and prepare before you head out during the winter.

Winter driving experts agree; don’t drive in bad weather if you can avoid it. But if driving in bad weather is absolutely necessary, make sure you plan, notify friends and family where you are going, ensure your tires and car is in top shape, take your cell phone, a blanket, bottled water, a flashlight and an emergency kit. These items should be kept in your car at all times. You should always have emergency contact numbers with you and a road side assistance plan. If possible, take a friend along with you.

Remember Last Winter?

2011-12-16T16:36:00.000-05:00

Is Your Car Ready?

Unless you spent last winter on a warm tropical island, the memory of last winter is a good lesson of just how cruel Mother Nature can be. Before long, winter will once again be upon us. As a result of last winter's harsh weather there was a significant increase of winter related car problems. Many of these problems were due to lack of proper vehicle maintenance and may have been avoided. Also, the cold, ice, snow, salt and wind can have damaging effects on your vehicle.

The Best insurance against a breakdown or a no start on a cold winter day is preventive maintenance. And the best time to have your car checked out for the winter is now. some of the more critical items to inspect are: The battery, antifreeze, heater, hoses, belts, defroster, tires, fluids, wipers, lights, brakes, suspension and filters. Also, ensure your car is up to date with all required maintenance services.

Snow Storms Brings Challenges

Your Car Battery Can Fail Without Warning

Imports, Domestics Have Billions at Stake

2011-11-29T14:57:00.000-05:00

Buyers' Loyalties Loosen

Owners of Japanese-brand vehicles buy Japanese-brand vehicles. Owners of domestic-brand vehicles buy domestics. So says auto industry wisdom.

But lately, that wisdom isn't such a sure bet.

Consumers have shown a recent willingness to cross-shop outside their traditional habits, according to market monitors. Prodded and lured in one direction by such factors as inventory shortages at import leaders Toyota and Honda, and shooed in the opposite direction by disappearing brands such as Pontiac, Saturn and Mercury, some consumers find themselves unanchored.

The billion-dollar question: Are they changing shopping patterns out of temporary inconvenience, or is a new attitude emerging in the consumer standoff between import and domestic brands?

Compete Inc., an automotive market research firm in Boston, finds that the tendency of Japanese import-brand shoppers to cross-shop Chevrolet, Ford and Dodge has trended steadily upward since the first quarter of 2010.

Similarly, J.D. Power and Associates reports that the percentage of auto shoppers who traded in an Asian import-brand vehicle and bought another one has declined slightly. Asian-brand loyalty dropped from a consistent 80 percent at the beginning of 2010 to 76 percent in third quarter 2011.

These may be modest changes, but they leave the industry uncertain.

'New Sense of Patriotism'

"Something is happening right now; it's just a little hard to say what it is "There is clearly a new sense of patriotism out there, "We can hear it when we talk to customers."

Patriotism alone won't sell cars: "It's not necessarily causing people to buy Fords; it's causing them to shop Ford. What's causing people to buy Ford is good products."

The past three years of upheaval -- recession, bankruptcies, bailouts, lending crises, fuel-price spikes, Japanese product-quality glitches, disappearing brands and the catastrophic March 11 earthquake in Japan -- has shaken up some consumer habits. Japanese-brand dealers were hit hard this summer by inventory shortages. Nissan rebounded fastest, and its U.S. market share is increasing. Market shares for Toyota and Honda are down from a year ago. At the same time, market shares for Chevrolet, Ford and Dodge are up.

Better Domestics

A big coincidence? "What's happening, is that the domestic manufacturers are delivering better-quality products right now, with better styling and fuel efficiency. Customers want to come see it.

Lincoln Merrihew, managing director for transportation at market researcher Compete, believes the domestic brands are partially benefiting from picking up "the leftovers" of domestic brands that were killed -- Saturn, Pontiac, Hummer and Mercury.

But he cites Compete shopper data to say that there is also organic growth. Combined Detroit 3 market share is up more than 2 points for the first nine months of this year, while Japanese-brand share is down nearly 4 points.

Compete tracks online car shoppers from auto site to auto site to see what other vehicles they are considering.

Merrihew says import shoppers were warming to domestic model considerations before the earthquake.

Compete data show that in July the ranking of Chevrolet, Ford or Dodge vehicles for Toyota shoppers was 4.5, meaning typically their fourth or fifth choice. By comparison, in fourth quarter 2009, the Detroit 3 vehicles were a more distant 5.5 choice.

Honda Loyalty Stands Out

Honda shoppers appear to be the most import-loyal of the Japanese market leaders. Compete reports that in December 2009, a Chevrolet, Ford or Dodge vehicle was a seventh-place choice for Honda shoppers. By July, those choices had risen, but only to fifth.

Nissan intenders ventured to a Chevrolet, Ford or Dodge vehicle as their sixth choice in late 2009, according to Compete. By this summer, those choices had risen to about 3.5.

Al Castignetti, vice president of Nissan sales at Nissan North America, says model segment offerings will determine where customers will shop. Because few brands offer minivans, for example, Chrysler minivan shoppers also will consider Nissan's recently reintroduced Quest. "We look at cross-shop data, and it is different for every segment," he adds.

Ford's decision to leave the compact pickup business will mean that those owners likely will consider a Nissan Frontier. Nissan's recently introduced compact sporty crossover, the Juke, "is a white-space product. Therefore, it is drawing shoppers from both sides of the import-domestic aisle.

Seniors Heading South for Winter

2011-11-22T19:59:00.000-05:00

Tips on storing your car for the winter months

Many people head down south for warmer weather this time of the year and leave their cars behind. Storing your car properly for the winter is important to avoid issues when you return in the spring. Here are a few simple tips to help prepare your car for the duration.

Change the oil just prior to storage.
Oil absorbs moisture and if old oil is left in the engine, moisture may evaporate out of the oil and condense on the engine internals causing corrosion. Also, oil becomes acidic with use and should be changed for this reason also.
Ideally you will want to keep your car in a garage, or at least in an enclosed area, protected from the elements. Never park your car for extended periods over dirt, grass or gravel.
Make sure your tire pressure is at least at the correct pressure. Some people add a few pounds extra due to possible loss of tire pressure over time.
You should purchase a devise know has a Battery Tender. This will maintain the proper charge in the battery. Batteries will go dead within a month’s time without a charge.
Wash the car thoroughly, inside and out. Dirt, tree sap, salt, etc can be damaging to the car’s exterior and paint. Wash the car thoroughly, inside and out. Dirt, tree sap, salt, etc can be damaging to the exterior and paint.
Fill the Gas Tank and add fuel stabilizer to the fuel.
Check all the fluids, especially the antifreeze.
Do not engage the parking brake. Having the parking brake engaged all winter may result in seized brake cables and other brake components.
Check your State Inspection date, if it is due to expire when you are gone, you should probably have it taken care of before you leave.

A little preparation before you leave will save you a lot of grief when you return.

PUT A SMILE ON A CHILD'S FACE THIS HOLIDAY

2011-11-16T22:30:00.000-05:00

Osceola Garage and

Toys for Tots Foundation

Delivering Happiness to Children

This Holiday Season

Please help them by donating an unwrapped toy stop down starting November 25th at Osceola Garage and drop off your kind donation.

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve

Toys for Tots Program

MISSION:

The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.

GOAL:

The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens.

OBJECTIVE:

The objectives of Toys for Tots are to help less fortunate children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation’s most valuable resources – our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to better communities in the future.

ACTIVITIES:

The principal Toys for Tots activity which takes place each year is the collection and distribution of toys in the communities in which a Marine Corps Reserve Unit is located. In communities without a Reserve Unit, the campaign can be conducted by a Marine Corps League Detachment or group of men and women, generally veteran Marines, authorized by Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to conduct a local Toys for Tots campaign. Local Toys for Tots Campaign Coordinators conduct an array of activities throughout the year, which include golf tournaments, foot races, bicycle races and other voluntary events designed to increase interest in Toys for Tots, and concurrently generate toys and monetary donations.

Donate Your Vehicle Today!

Cars for Tots will take any vehicle, anywhere in America, running or not. This is an alternative to the hassle of selling or trading-in yourself, and you get a tax deduction and a big thanks from us.

To donate: call 877-999-8322 or for details Go to Toys for Tots Vehicle Donation Program.

Female Car Buyers Embrace Domestic Automakers, Porsche

2011-11-15T15:42:00.000-05:00

Female car buyers are making up a larger customer base for some of the top domestic auto brands, but none approach the gains that Porsche has made with women this year, according to an analysis by Edmunds.com, the online resource for automotive information.

The analysis found that of all automakers, Porsche has made the largest relative market share gains among women nationwide over the past year. From January through August 2011, 23 percent of Porsche buyers were female, compared to 19 percent during the same period last year. The growth accounts for a 21.1 percent proportional change, year over year.

Edmunds.com's analysis found that eight of the ten car brands with the fastest growing female market shares were domestic automakers. Among those domestic brands, Buick has made the largest market share gains among women, increasing the proportion by 8.6 percent year over year.

Trailing just behind Buick were Dodge (+7.4%) and Chevrolet (+6.5%). Luxury Japanese make Infiniti (+6.1%) was next, at +6.1%, followed by GMC (+3.8%), Ford (+3.2%), Lincoln (+2.9%), Jeep (+2.8%) and Chrysler (+2.7%).

Overall, 39 percent of all new cars have been registered by women in the U.S. this year, essentially flat compared to last year. While women accounted for 23% of total Porsche buyers so far this year, their shares of the other nine brands on the list were: Buick, 38%; Dodge, 29%; Chevrolet, 33%; Infiniti, 35%; GMC, 27%; Ford, 32%; Lincoln, 36%; Jeep, 37%; and Chrysler, 38%.

"One thing that these ten brands have in common is that their shares of female buyers all fall below the industry average of 39 percent," notes Edmunds.com Senior Analyst Jessica Caldwell. "It's smart for these brands to develop new and refreshed products that have a stronger appeal with women so that they don't miss out on an important part of the market."

Foreign makes dominated the list of the largest decreases in female market share. Mini has seen its market share of females shift from 48 percent in the first eight months of 2010 to 46 percent during the same period in 2011, for a proportional change of -4.2 percent. Fellow European competitors Audi (-2.9%), Volvo (-2.3%) and Volkswagen (-2.3%) are next on the list, followed by Korean automotive giant Hyundai (-2.3%).

To perform this study, Edmunds.com analysts examined new car registration data provided by Polk for the periods January 2010-August 2010 and January 2011-August 2011. Only brands selling a minimum of 1,500 vehicles to females nationwide during each time period were considered for the analysis.

The Memories of American Heroes Live On

2011-11-11T01:30:00.000-05:00

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 an armistice between Germany and the Allied nations came into effect. On November 11, 1919, Armistice Day was commemorated for the first time. In 1919, President Wilson proclaimed the day should be "filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory".

Veterans Day is intended to honor and thank all military personnel who served the

United States

in all wars, particularly living veterans. It is marked by parades and church services and in many places the American flag is hung at half mast. A period of silence lasting two minutes may be held at 11am.

Throughout both internal conflicts and world wars,

America

’s veterans have dedicated their lives to protecting those at home. Remember their service and bravery at one of the monuments or memorials in the region.

http://www.osceolagarage.com/

New York offers several inspiring memorials where visitors are welcome year-round, so take some time to honor America’s heroes on this day November 11, 2011

Popularity of used vehicles continues to grow.

2011-11-08T14:41:00.000-05:00

Among the automobile buying sector, used cars are in more demand than in recent years, a new study reveals.

According to the national survey conducted by The Media Audit, 54.7% of adults who plan to buy a vehicle in the next 12 months are planning to purchase a used vehicle.

The figure represents more than 20 million consumers across The Media Audit's 80 measured markets.

Moreover, the demand for used cars versus new cars has been increasing. In 2006, a similar study was conducted, and used cars represented 49.4% of all automobile planned purchases. As a result, the demand for used cars among car buyers has increased by 10% over five years.

Correspondingly, the demand for new cars has diminished. The same study reveals that among adults planning to purchase a vehicle, 37.8% plan to buy a new vehicle, compared to 43.8% in 2006. The figure represents a decline of 13% over the same five-year period.

Among some of the top markets for used cars are Indianapolis, IN, where 12.7% of the market's general population plans to purchase a used vehicle in the next 12 months. Charleston, SC, ranks second with 11.5% who plan to buy a used vehicle, followed by Oklahoma City, OK (11.2%), Memphis, TN (11.1%), and Detroit, MI (10.5%).

Rounding out the top ten markets for planned purchases of used vehicles are Sacramento, CA, where 10.1% of the local population plans to purchase a used vehicle, along with Spokane, Washington (10.1%), and Columbus, Ohio (10.1%). San Antonio, Texas (9.7%), and Kansas City, Missouri (9.6%) ranked ninth and tenth, respectively.

Quick Fall Auto Fix-up Tips

2011-11-06T08:01:00.000-05:00

Avoid winter woes with quick fall auto fix-up tips and keep your car in great condition for the winter months to come. As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it's time to prepare your vehicle for the unfavorable road conditions to come. Addressing a few key issues before winter arrives can save you significant hassle and cost.

Follow these simple tips to shield your vehicle from the elements and avoid winter-related damages.

Protect Your Paint

The majorities of drivers are aware of at least one scratch or chip in their vehicles' paint. Unfortunately, many will not repair these small damages before they rust and become serious issues. A scratch can rust in just 30 days, and snow, ice and freezing temperatures can accelerate and intensify the damage.

Contact Osceola Garage as to what finish would be the best for your vehicle to repair these small damages.

Vision

Winter weather can reduce visibility, so a clear windshield is extremely important to prevent accident damage. To make certain you have an unobstructed view of the road at all times, examine the defroster system and windshield wipers. Replace any old or cracked blades, and don't forget your rear wiper.

Stock up on winter windshield fluid and keep a bottle of de-icing spray in your car to reduce the need to scrape. Check all vehicle lights to make sure your night vision is equally clear, and replace any dim or dead bulbs.

Contact Osceola Garage to inspect your vehicle free of charge.

Tires

One of the most essential aspects of vehicle winterization is making sure you have a safe grip on the road. Quality tires help keep your vehicle secure, especially in slippery rain or snow conditions, and inadequate tires will not be effective. Inspect your tire tread and pressure and replace worn tires for optimal traction in snow and ice.

Ensure to rotate your tires and have your brakes checked. If you live in a snow-prone or rural area, you might consider purchasing snow tires and/or chains to get through the tough conditions.

Contact Osceola Garage and we will inspect your tires Free of charge.

Emergency Kit

In the case that something does go wrong this winter and you are stranded, make sure to keep an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle at all times.

Include: Flashlight and batteries, road flares, a blanket, jumper cables, bottled water, nutrition bars and charged cell phone

You may also benefit from roadside service, particularly if you are traveling alone or long distances. Contact Osceola Garage and find out more about their Auto Club.

For information click: http://bit.ly/u5SFhy

Seniors Can You Be Considered an Impaired Driver because you’re taking prescription medications

2011-10-18T19:01:00.000-04:00

As we get older, more and more of us tend to take medications for one reason or another. These drugs may have stronger effects on our bodies than when we were younger.

High doses of some drugs can impair your skills and reflexes while behind the wheel of your car. It can also make you drowsy, affect your vision and have other negative side effects that can affect your safety and the safety of others while on the road.

When taking any medication read the labels It is common to see the warnings on prescription drug labels noting something along the lines of, “Do not operate heavy machinery or equipment.” It is important to remember that the heavy machinery mentioned includes automobiles.

Many times the driver’s doctor-prescribed medication which can have an effect on the ability to drive equal to, or worse than, being intoxicated. Driving while impaired under the influence of medication is just as illegal as drinking and driving and has the same penalties.

If any drug makes you drowsy or dizzy or any other adverse reactions, do not drive while taking these drugs and speak with your doctor right away.

Are Your Car Tires Out of Date

2011-10-12T12:09:00.000-04:00

Worn Tires, especially bald ones can be deadly on wet roads.

Mileage is the not the only concern when speaking of the integrity of your car’s tires. The age of the tires is an important factor too. Many seniors do not put a lot of miles on their cars and may be under the assumption that because of the low miles on the car, the tires are ok. This may not be the case.

Tire rubber degrades and dries out over time, no matter what the miles are. This can cause cracking and stress on the tire's structural composition, possibly resulting in failure, including blowouts and tread shredding at higher speeds. Older tires often have problems maintaining proper inflation. This can cause gas consumption to rise, wasting valuable fuel.

All tires have a date code stamped on the sidewall. If your tires are more than 5 years old you should have your auto service professional inspect the tires and check the date code Remember, the age of a tire is as important as the mileage.

Worn tires—especially bald ones—can be deadly on wet roads, where the grooves aren't deep enough to channel water out from beneath the tread. The result is hydroplaning, where the tread skims the water's surface and the vehicle no longer responds to the steering wheel. Wet-weather braking and snow traction also decrease as tires wear.

Tires are considered bald when one or more of their grooves reaches 2/32 of an inch deep, compared with about 10/32 of an inch for new tires (tread wear is usually measured in 1/32-inch increments). Manufacturers have made bald tires easier to spot by placing a series of molded horizontal bars at the base of the grooves. The bars become flush with surrounding tread when wear reduces a groove's depth to 2/32 of an inch. That's also the point where tires will flunk a state safety inspection—and where tread must be worn for you to collect on a tire's tread-wear warranty.
Unfortunately, 2/32 of an inch may be too late if you drive in rain or snow. Based on our tests of new and half-tread-depth tires, you may want to consider shopping for new ones on your car or truck closer to the 4/32-inch groove depth.

Click here for Tires to Fit Every Budget

The Days are Getting Shorter and Colder. Get Your Car In Shape for the Months Ahead!

2011-10-05T09:39:00.000-04:00

The Weather Is Now Changing, be prepared to meet the fall head on where auto safety and maintenance is concerned.

The leaves have started to fall, and parents have sent their children back to school. Before the weather takes a turn for the worst Osceola Garage Auto Care would like to offer the following car maintenance tips to get vehicles ready for the damp, cold months ahead.

Take Your Vehicle For A Full Check Up

As the fall weather continues to roll in, it's important to have the following items checked by a professional: battery cables and terminals, belts and hoses, air filters, windshield wipers and all fluids, including anti-freeze, oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, automatic transmission fluid and windshield washer fluid.

Take A Good Look At Your Tires

Are there signs of uneven tread wear? That could indicate under-inflation, unbalanced tires or misaligned wheels. Remember to check your tire pressure with a gauge at least once a month and regularly inspect the tread depth. Your tread will be even more important during the autumn months when wet, dead leaves cover the roadways.

Take Care Of Your Lights And Turn Signals

Fall, along with less favorable weather, also means it's time to turn the clocks back for daylight savings. With a shorter day comes a longer night, so be sure your headlights, taillights and turn signals are in proper working order and shining at the appropriate levels.

Talk To Your Teenager

Have a teenager in the house? Worried about all the driving they will be doing during the fall? You can't teen-proof your neighborhood, but you can talk to your teen about safe driving before they head to school. Osceola Garage has tips and resources for parents to help start a conversation with your teens about smart driving. Stop by or call us to get a complete list of safety tips for your teenager.

Remember, not only can taking these small steps keep your vehicle running newer, longer, but they can also help keep you and your family safe on the road.

Seniors: Night Driving Can Be Challenging

2011-09-30T12:50:00.000-04:00

Seniors: Night Driving Can Be Challenging

As we get older, our reaction time begins to slow down and our vision starts to decline. These factors can lead to problems while driving at night. Here are a few helpful hints for driving at night:

Make sure your headlights are on at least one hour before sunset and one hour after sunrise.
Increase your distance between other vehicles on the road and allow more time when stopping.
Stay alert, if you are drowsy or tired, do not drive.
If you feel that your vision is not what it should be, get an eye examination, don’t take chances.

Lastly, have you exterior lights and headlights checked often. Also, the headlights lenses on many cars today fade over time, which reduces your ability to see at night. If your lenses are cloudy, please see you auto service professional. In many cases the headlight lenses can be polished and repair, saving you the expense of replacement headlight assemblies.

Fall Driving Safety Tips

2011-09-29T19:18:00.000-04:00

AUTUMN DRIVING SAFETY TIPS

Sunny days and crisp nights, colorful falling leaves and the last chance to hit the road before winter's ice and snow make autumn the perfect time for a road trip. But amongst all that beauty are some hazards you should know about. Don't let one of them ruin your scenic autumn drive.

The Dangers of Falling leaves

As we head into the fall, leaves will begin to accumulate on the roadways, which can cause slippery and hazardous driving conditions. As the temperature falls, particularly overnight, the wet leaves can turn the roadways as dangerous as ice or snow covered. Also, leaves can cover and hide road markings, making it difficult to know the exact location of the lanes.

Autumn leaves piled along the roadside may be a scenic part of fall, but if those leaves get wet, they can be as big a hazard as a puddle or standing water. If you hit a patch of wet leaves, you can lose traction. Braking and steering may be difficult. Be aware of this hazard and treat wet leaves the way you would a water hazard, slowing down and braking and steering carefully.

Avoid driving over piles of dry leaves, too. They could ignite on hot engine parts, or they might be obscuring a pot hole or other hazard

To avoid skidding and loss of vehicle control, slow down and be very cautious when braking. Treat wet leaves the same as you treat icy conditions. Allow yourself extra time to stop and maintain a greater distance between you and the car ahead of you.

Here’s another tip; keep leaves from accumulating around the wiper area and under the hood. These leaves will find their way into your heater vent system and may damage the heater motor or will eventually decompose. Rotting leaves will emit an unhealthy, foul odor from your heater vents.

Weather
Fall is a time of variable weather. Sunny days can give way to frosty nights, and sudden showers may leave roads slick. Make sure your wiper blades, tires and brakes are all in good working order. If you find frost on your windshield in the morning, take the time to clean it off so you have full visibility.

Animals
Autumn is a time of greater activity in the animal world also. It's mating season for deer, elk, moose and other large mammals. A buck in pursuit of a doe may not stop for traffic. Bears are focused on ingesting as many calories as possible as the days dwindle, so are less cautious about being out at all hours. Smaller animals, too, are more active in autumn as they gather food stores. Slow down and be extra alert if you live in an area where these animals roam. Get in the habit of scanning the road ahead. If you see movement or an animal on the side of the road, decrease your speed. Warn motorists ahead of you of a possible hazard by flashing your lights three times

School's in
Watch for children walking to and from school, especially in early morning hours when they might not be as readily visible. Children walking in groups with their friends may be distracted and careless about stepping out in traffic. Slow down and be aware.

Is Your Air Bag Light On? Don’t Ignore It.

2011-09-19T10:12:00.000-04:00

If your air bag (or SRS) light is on, that’s an indication of a malfunction in the air bag system, sometimes referred to as the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). Your vehicle on-board computer continuously monitors the proper function of the air bag system. Once it detects a fault, it will turn on the dashboard warning light. The air bag light should come on when the car is first started, along with other warning lights and turn off within a few seconds. If the light stays on, or comes on while driving, don’t ignore it, have it check immediately. Your air bags may not deploy in the event of a collision. Air bags save lives. Without the air bags working properly you are putting yourself at risk and the risk of other passengers.

Motorists Tips: Staying Safe on the Road

2011-09-06T13:41:00.000-04:00

Are You In Control Of Your Vehicle?

Driving you car should be effortless. Loss of strength or flexibility can make it harder to safely control you car. If you have trouble looking over your shoulder to change lanes, moving your foot from the gas pedal to the brake pedal or turning the steering wheel, you need to tell your doctor. Physical problems that impede your reaction time can jeopardize your safety and the safety of others on the road. In addition, you need to be aware of fatigue behind the wheel. Know your limitations. Driving long distances can lead to pain and cramps in your back, legs and ankles.

As Gas Prices Rise, So Do Scams

2011-09-01T16:21:00.000-04:00

Gas prices are reaching all time highs. So too is the volume of advertising for “gas-saving” products, designed to appeal to consumers looking for ways to improve fuel efficiency. Although there are practical steps car owners can take to increase gas mileage, be wary of gas-saving claims for automotive devices. What’s more, you could end up with serious engine problems or a voided manufacturer warranty by adding after-market devices to your engine.

Osceola Garage recommends being particularly skeptical of the following kinds of advertising claims:

“Product improves fuel economy by 20 percent.” The Environmental Protection Agency has evaluated or tested more than 100 alleged gas-saving devices and has not found any product that significantly improves gas mileage. In fact, some “gas-saving” products may damage a car’s engine or cause substantial increases in exhaust emissions.
“I got an extra 4 miles per gallon with your product.” Although ads may feature glowing customer testimonials, consumers should keep in mind that few people have the ability or the equipment to test for precise changes in gas mileage after installing a gas-saving product.
“Approved by the Federal Government.” No government agency endorses gas-saving products for cars.

Instead of searching for miraculous gas-saving products, we recommend that consumers consider taking one or more of the no cost or low-cost actions that can help drivers save on gas consumption. The most important place to start is at the gas pump; buy only the octane level gas you need. Here are more tips to help you get better gas mileage:

Drive more efficiently. Stay within posted speed limits. Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 miles per hour.
Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and stops. Accelerate slowly when starting from a dead stop.
Use overdrive gears and cruise controls when appropriate. They improve the fuel economy of your car when driving on a highway.
Keep windows closed when traveling at highway speeds. Open windows cause air drag, reducing your mileage by 10 percent.
Remove excess weight from the trunk.
Properly maintain your car. Keep the engine tuned, tires inflated and aligned, change the oil on schedule, and check and replace air filters regularly. Replacing clogged filters can increase gas mileage up to 10 percent

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

2011-08-30T14:17:00.001-04:00

The United States government has passed legislation that requires all new passenger vehicles (beginning with 2007 model year vehicles) to be equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems. The main purpose of these systems is to warn the driver if their tires are losing air pressure, leaving the tires under inflated and dangerous.Maintaining the correct tire pressure for a vehicle is the variable in how much load its tires can safely carry. The correct pressure will carry the weight without a problem. Too little tire pressure will eventually cause catastrophic tire failure.

Studies have shown that running tires with too little air pressure is not uncommon. It’s been estimated that about one out of every four vehicles on the road is running on under inflated tires. This also means that one out of every four drivers is needlessly sacrificing their vehicle’s fuel economy and handling, and reducing their tires’ durability and tread life.

Below are typical dashboard warning lights alerting the driver of a tire not inflated properly. For more information you can go to: http://www.checkmytires.com/ or you can always ask us.

Typical dashboard tire pressure monitor warning lights

Although it becomes law in 2007, many vehicles built in the last few years have been equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems. While we see the importance of this system we feel obligated to let our customers know that this technology is new and has many problems and flaws. We have already seen many false warning lights. The systems are complicated and special equipment is needed for some vehicle models to reset the light. Also, the sensors in the wheels can wear out or become damaged and may have to be replaced in the future.

It’s our advice that you still practice common sense and have you tire pressure checked at least once a month. And please remember, most vehicles manufactured prior to 2007 do not have a tire pressure monitoring system. As always, if you have a question about your tires or need your tire pressure checked, just stop by. We will be glad to check your tires and refill to the proper inflation at no charge.