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Lifestyle & Trends - Automotive
Secrets of what's driving American travelers this season
Now that spring has sprung, drivers will be hitting the road in earnest to enjoy the warmer weather. In fact, according to Hankook Tire's latest Quarterly Gauge Index, 56 percent of Americans are planning to take a road trip that involves driving 50 miles or more. On average, they estimate they will drive 1,025 miles. What is it about spring - besides the obvious pleasurable weather - that has so many people hitting the road?
Distracted Driving Awareness Month aims to limit the distractions of technology in the 21st century
Talking or texting on a cellphone while driving is taboo almost everywhere across the country. Thirty-nine states now ban texting while driving and 10 states prohibit any use of a cellphone without a hands-free device.
The last thing anyone wants is for his or her insurance rates to increase. Most policyholders would be surprised to know it's the last thing their insurance company wants to happen, too. That's why most major carriers have a department of investigators dedicated to stopping one of the primary causes of rate hikes: insurance fraud. In fact, fraudulent insurance claims are the second most costly white-collar crime in America - to the tune of $40 billion annually.
With a brand new truck decorating your driveway, you've probably got plenty of ideas of how you're going to use it for towing a boat, transporting large and heavy loads and conquering rugged terrain. Or maybe you just want to feel powerful while driving it down the road. But before you get too comfortable, think about what could make your truck even better. What can you add that will help your truck last longer, handle more tasks and look even stronger?
Save time and money with easy DIY auto maintenance tips
Vehicles are a big investment for families - usually the second highest valued item in a household after the home itself. While the purchase price for cars, trucks and SUVs keeps going up, the cost of maintenance is holding steady or even dropping for most vehicles. Better materials, sophisticated computers and other advances increase reliability and allow less frequent oil changes, tune-ups and other service.
Simple ways older drivers can save money on auto insurance
Insurance companies aren't charging you higher premiums because you're in an over-50 age group. You may be paying too much because you haven't done anything to lower the cost of your premiums.
Going the extra mile: Secrets to keeping cars running longer on the roads
Hitting 100,000 miles on the odometer for most people means it's time to start car shopping. But for others it's a personal challenge to go the extra mile, save a little cash and take their cars another 100,000 miles.
The weather's heating up and that means one thing: road trips. Before you grab the family and hit the highway, make sure your vehicle's ready to roll. And the first place to check is actually what rolls - your tires. Often ignored - except when they are flat - tires are one of the most important components on any vehicle, and have an enormous effect on braking, steering, comfort, handling and fuel efficiency.
Consumers, be aware: Know the facts when it comes to oil changes
With more than 300 million vehicles on the road today, motor oil is the lifeblood of any engine and can help protect and prolong its life, whether you're driving a compact car, pickup truck or SUV. However, not just any motor oil will ensure the healthy life of an engine and, unfortunately, discounted deals for an oil change may not be such a deal after all.
Extend your car's longevity with these spring cleaning tips
The open road lies in front of millions of drivers who are ready to lower the windows and feel the warm breeze, but nothing curbs the excitement of a spring drive more than car issues that could have been avoided by simple maintenance to combat the lasting effects of driving through winter.
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