Our friendly pals over at AutoTrader.com have put together a snazzy New Year's Resolution list for Ask Patty! Make a resolution for you and your vehicle for 2007!
Be Happier
Get out of that Old Car
– Whether you want to drive it until the wheels fall off (and they just
did), you don’t feel it is dependable, it is not big enough for the
family, or it just isn’t what you want, with the variety of vehicles,
manufacturer discounts, and aggressive financing, this is a great time
to look into a new ride.
Keep It Clean – One of the
best ways to feel good about your car, and sometimes yourself, is to
have a clean car. It not only provides a good personal image but, by
keeping that empty bottle of soda from rolling under your brake pedal,
it is also improves your safety.
Dress It Up – The same
way new accessories can make you feel good; they can also make you feel
good about your car. New wheels, pinstripes, spoilers, or just a
steering wheel cover can improve your outlook on your car. Most
automotive parts stores carry a wide selection of accessories with
staff that can install them for you.
Save Money
Ease off the Gas
- studies clearly show that aggressive driving can reduce your
vehicle’s efficiency by up to 20% while rarely getting the driver to
their location any sooner.
Check Your Tire Pressure -
Maintaining proper tire pressure has many benefits: longer tire life,
improved efficiency, more comfortable ride, and better / safer handling.
Change Your Oil and Filters Regularly – Your car is a major investment, treat it like one. Prolong its life (and yes, improve efficiency) by keeping the engine clean.
Car Pool
– Sure, there are a million reasons why you don’t want to do it. But in
the long run it saves you money, and in some regions, you can actually
be reimbursed or paid for being in a car pool.
Drive Safe
The Road is not a Race Track -
Remember that just because you want to be a race driver, or think you
are, it does not mean you have the right to endanger others. A closed
track, with other drivers that have accepted the responsibility and
danger, is the only appropriate place for competitive driving.
Safety First –
Take responsibility for yourself, your passengers, and others on the
road. Obey speed limits (especially in neighborhoods, near schools and
near parks) and keep yours eyes on the road. Anything that is not part
of operating the vehicle is secondary and should wait until you have
come to a stop.
Reduce Distractions – The cell phone
has been the primary target of blame, but any distraction is a hazard
to you and others. Some examples of distractions you could try to
eliminate or reduce are: reading, eating, hair / make-up, television
(really), adjusting music, rubber-necking, and of course, cell phones.
Take Care of Yourself and Others
Be (more) Courteous
– Find opportunities to make the experience better for everyone. Things
like yielding rather than cutting someone off, and waving instead of
“gesturing”, can help make the commute easier and make you feel better
about yourself.
Use Your Seat Belt – The percentage of
people that regularly do not wear their seat belts is still in the
double digits in some states. Not wearing a seatbelt is one of the top
reasons for automotive fatalities.
Secure the Kids –
They don’t know any better – it is your responsibility! Children loose
in a vehicle can be a distraction to the driver and a danger to
themselves. Remember, automotive accidents are the number one killer of
children under 15 ~ so strap ‘em in and teach them the importance of
being responsible passengers.
Have a happy new year from AutoTrader.com!
