As summer comes to a close, drivers across the U.S. are packing up their trailers, RVs, campers and boats for one last weekend in the sun.Yet, there are several mistakes that they often make when trailering. These mistakes can not only damage their trailer, but also their tow vehicle.

GMC’s lead trailering engineer and expert in all things-towing, Robert Krouse, has witnessed the good, bad and ugly when it comes to towing. In fact, the new 2011 GMC Sierra heavy-duty pickup is designed for towing, and provides drivers with the ability to tow 21,700 pounds and carry 6,635 pounds. Heading into Labor Day weekend, Krouse offers the top five mistakes people make while trailering.

Mistake 1: Not knowing the actual weight of the trailer.

The first priority is knowing the job that needs to be done and the weight of the trailer and items that are going to be towed. “I often see that customers have incorrect trailer weights and they will then underestimate the weight of the items they are putting on the trailer,” said Krouse.

For example, many people will misjudge the weight of the gear or supplies, such as building and landscaping materials that are much heavier than people think they are.

The Solution: Before a consumer loads up any trailer, it is essential to know exactly what the trailer and gear weighs. Many truck stops, sand and gravel yards, grain storage sites, moving companies and salvage yards often have scales open to the public.

Krouse stresses that consumers need to “always check the total trailer weight and the trailer tongue weight before you tow anything.”

Mistake 2: Not knowing the actual capacity of the tow vehicle as equipped.

Far too often, an individual will mismatch the vehicle to the trailer load, which must always be properly matched. Many websites provide only maximum trailer weight ratings (TWR), which means consumers need additional equipment to achieve the greatest performance for a vehicle that is not equipped with the maximum TWR.

The Solution: For a new vehicle, a dealer can provide the vehicle weight information based on how the vehicle is equipped. For people with an existing vehicle, be sure to know exactly what the trailer weighs. After you know the trailer weight, Krouse recommends adding the trailer and tow vehicle to ensure the combination does not exceed the gross combination weight rating (GCWR). The owner’s manual also will provide vehicle ratings and capabilities.

“It is also important to consider the amount of people and gear that will be inside the vehicle and add that to the weight that is being towed,” Krouse said.

Mistake 3: Overloading the trailer or tow vehicle.

Consumers often make the mistake of overloading and exceeding the TWR and GCWR as discussed in mistakes one and two, but it is also vital not to overload the trailer tongue weight, tow vehicle and trailer gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWRs), individual tow vehicle and trailer gross axle weight ratings (GAWRs) and individual tire ratings.

“By putting too much weight on a trailer it can not only damage the trailer, but also the tow vehicle. Results can range from broken axles to bearing damage and excessive tire wear,” Krouse said.

The Solution: TWR and GCWR should never be exceeded. If consumers follow the tips outlined in mistake one and two, it will ensure that they will be armed with the necessary information to avoid overloading and damage to the trailer and vehicle. “At GMC we are constantly challenging ourselves to safely maximize and increase payload and towing ratings to meet our customer’s demands,” said Krouse. “Though, it is important that consumers do not overload their vehicles as these figures are set to keep the driver and vehicle safe.”

Mistake 4: Improper combination setup – including weight distribution hitch.

After you have confirmed TWR and GCWR, it is important to make sure that the hitch ball, brake controller, sway controls and weight-distributing spring bars (if used) are properly installed and adjusted. “Too often I see that the hitch ball is too high or too low, the sway controls or weight-distributing spring bars are improperly adjusted and the brake controller may not be properly set up,” said Krouse. “It is common to see trailers with spring bars that are visibly curved upward and applying large amounts of torque to the hitch. “

The Solution: The hitch ball height will depend on the tow vehicle’s rear Gross Axle Weight Rating. To manage the hitch ball height, on a level surface, use the trailer tongue jack with a level to determine the level trailer coupler height. If the trailer weight is at or near the tow vehicle’s maximum Trailer Weight Rating, the rear end may drop several inches when the trailer is coupled, Krouse said. If the trailer is lighter, consumers can assume about an inch drop when selecting the proper ball mount or drawbar. Balancing the load over the length of the trailer is important. To make sure you have proper weight distribution, measure the height of the front fender, just above the center of one of the front wheels before the trailer is connected to the tow vehicle. After it is connected, the front end of the tow vehicle should rise slightly. It is important to apply only enough tension on the spring bars to restore the initial front end height but avoid bringing the front end to a lower position than where it started.

“If in doubt, I recommend always checking the owner’s manual to check vehicle ratings and capabilities and to follow the manufactures instructions to install and adjust any trailering feature,” Krouse said.

Mistake 5: General driving practices.

One of the easiest ways to avoid mistakes while towing is to always practice safe driving techniques. The tow vehicle and trailer combination is often considerably heavier, longer and higher than the vehicle that is doing the towing. This combination makes it more difficult to maneuver, drive and stop the vehicle doing the towing.

The Solution: When trailering, individuals need to always be aware of their surroundings.

Krouse says that “people need to realize that accelerating – and therefore passing and merging – are more difficult with a trailer, and to pay extra attention to make sure there is adequate spacing between other vehicles before attempting to change lanes.” He advises to make wider turns than usual because the trailer will track inside of the tow vehicle and possibly strike curbs, signs, trees or other vehicles on the inside of a turn, and to avoid low overhangs if the trailer is taller than the tow vehicle.

In addition, Krouse suggest “avoiding quick or sudden maneuvers whenever possible.”

Finally, Krouse notes that consumers need to pay close attention to vehicle and trailer maintenance. When trailering, it is important to remember that the tow vehicle is working harder than it does alone, generally operating under higher loads and higher temperatures that require additional attention.

Also, trailers often sit for long periods of time and require maintenance due to long periods of inactivity. “Either way, stay on top of maintenance, particularly paying attention to fluids, tires and brakes in the tow vehicle and brakes, bearings, tires and electrical systems in the trailer,” said Krouse.

Acknowledgement: GM

RICHMOND, Va. (July 1, 2010) – This summer season the family road trip will average more than eight hours in driving time, according to a recent CarMax survey – that means filling up the gas tank more than once, especially if you’re driving a minivan or SUV.  CarMax, Inc. (NYSE: KMX), the nation’s largest retailer of used cars, wants to help you make the most of the dollars you spend at the pump with some helpful tips before you hit the road.

“Most fuel is used to accelerate a car from a stop to cruising speed,” said ASE Certified Master Technician Tom Damon.  “Driving more efficiently and getting regular maintenance can really improve gas mileage.”

CarMax technicians recommend the following fuel-sipping tips:

1.        Drive Efficiently

·         Drive the speed limit: gas mileage decreases at higher speeds.

·         Don’t drive aggressively: speeding, quick acceleration and excessive braking all waste gas.  Driving aggressively lowers gas mileage both on the highway and when driving around town.

·         Use overdrive and cruise control: If your vehicle has a manual overdrive, make sure it is ON; overdrive reduces engine speed, which helps to save gas.  Cruise control also saves gas by maintaining a consistent speed.

·         Avoid idling: idling for longer than 30 seconds uses more gas than starting up your engine.

2. Maintain your Vehicle

·         Get the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance done: keeping your car in shape improves gas mileage.

·         Make sure your tires are filled to the correct pressure: this can increase gas mileage by three percent.  Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications. (Note below from Bridgestone)

·         Whenever possible, use synthetic oil: look for “Energy Conserving” motor oil; it will reduce friction and increase fuel economy.

·         Check and replace dirty air filters: clogged filters can decrease gas mileage up to 10 percent.

3. Plan Ahead

·         Combine errands: this will save time, money and gas.

·         Remove excess weight: excess weight in the cab or trunk can reduce mileage.  Every extra 100 pounds reduces fuel economy by approximately two percent.

·         Eliminate excess wind resistance: roof racks and carrier crates on the top of the car create drag or wind resistance.  Removing these items can increase fuel economy by about five percent.

·         Use air conditioning when traveling at highway speeds: driving with the windows open uses more fuel due to the increased drag.

·         Fill up your car in the morning: early morning is the best time because the gasoline is cooler and denser.  Since gas pumps measure volumes of gas and not densities, you get more fuel for your money.

CarMax, Inc. wants to help keep the cost of summer road traveling down. Their LUV2DRV Facebook giveaway is awarding a grand prize of $2,500 as well as five $250 gas cards. Log onto Facebook.com/CarMax for details on how to enter; while there, download a road trip survival guide to make the most of your next driving adventure. The mentioned survey (http://bit.ly/aBCIM3) was conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs.

Notes from Bridgestone

Just before many families are about to set off on holiday, Bridgestone draws attention to a few elementary rules to follow for improved safety and greener driving: make sure you check your tyre pressure before setting off on holiday, check the tyre pressure after your trip too, don’t over inflate your tyres.

Pressure problems is the enemy number 1 for safety and ecology: 63% of vehicles checked had either tyre wear or tyre pressure problems, more than 1 vehicle in 2 (58%) was being driven with one or more tyres underinflated or overinflated (12%).

Acknowledgement: Carmax, Bridgestone

Here is a link to a more exhaustive checklist.

Acknowledgement: GM Goodwrench and AAA.

Photo acknowledgement: The thumbnail for the article is courtesy of Thomas Hawk under creative commons.

Acknowledgment: NHRA

Help in preventing these all-too-frequent near misses is available in the form of a small orange icon that appears on the side mirrors of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse. The aptly named Side Blind Zone Alert system uses radar-equipped sensors to provide an extra set of “eyes” to monitor the vehicle’s side blind spots.

How prevalent are blind spot incidents? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says improper lane changes are a factor in up to 85 percent of all crashes.

“The blind zone technology system enables the car to see where it is difficult for the driver to see,” said Kent Lybecker, a GM active safety systems engineer. “This technology makes lane changes safer because it alerts driver’s to vehicles that otherwise might escape their vision.”

If the Side Blind Zone Alert system detects a vehicle in the adjacent lane, the system will illuminate a symbol on the side view mirror alerting the driver to a potential collision. If the driver activates the turn signal in the direction of the detected vehicle, the symbol will flash. Otherwise it remains illuminated until the other vehicle has left the blind zone.

The system uses alternating radar beams that sweep outward from the vehicle, covering a zone of about one lane wide on both sides of the vehicle. The zone also extends back approximately 10 feet from the rear of the vehicle for an added layer of protection.

The LaCrosse is one of 27 new vehicles to be named a Top Safety Pick for 2010 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  The award recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting occupants in front, side, rear and rollover crashes based on Institute testing.

Other GM vehicles offering Side Blind Zone Alert for the 2010 model year are the Buick Lucerne; Cadillac STS, DTS and Escalade ESV; Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL

Although Side Blind Zone Alert is intended to help drivers avoid lane change mishaps, the driver still needs to turn to check blind zones manually before changing lanes.

Acknowledgement: GM

Now the myth vs facts on the story (courtesy of Toyota)

Myth: The start/stop button on the dash will not turn off my Prius while it’s running.

Fact: On early to 2010 models with a push-button smart key system, pushing and holding the button on the dash for about three seconds will shut off the ignition system on the vehicle – even if it’s in gear and moving along the roadway. Newer models may have different control logic – you only have to press the button briefly to shut down the vehicle. Check your Owner’s Manual for details on your vehicle’s system.

Myth: The brake system on my Toyota Prius is not able to stop the car at speed with a wide-open throttle condition.

Fact: The brake system on each Toyota model is capable of overpowering the driveline to stop the vehicle – even with the throttle in a wide-open condition. See Car and Driver‘s article at: http://www.caranddriver.com/features/09q4/how_to_deal_with_unintended_acceleration-tech_dept for more information. Apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal – use two feet if needed, to bring the vehicle to a halt. Do not pump the brakes in these conditions, as this may overheat the system, causing a reduction in brake performance. Prius is equipped with a combination of hydraulic and electric regenerative brake systems. All Prius vehicles have a brake system program that reduces gasoline engine power if both the throttle and brake pedals are depressed at the same time. This feature helps reduce the chance of damage to the hybrid system transmission in the event of simultaneous brake and throttle pedal application by the driver, and also helps to slow the vehicle under these circumstances. The regenerative braking via the main electric motor will continue to function to help slow the vehicle

Myth: In the event you encounter a runaway vehicle, the first thing you should do is to turn off the ignition.

Fact: Although turning off the ignition is a possible course of action, the first thing a driver should do is to put the transmission in Neutral. This separates the driveline from the wheels, and gives the driver instant speed control over the vehicle, and allows the driver time to assess what is happening. This also allows continued use of the power steering and brake systems for an easier stopping operation. Pressing the start/stop button to turn off the ignition can be done as a next step. This will shut down power assist to the brakes and steering system – reducing their performance, but the driver can still brake and steer the vehicle manually in this condition. The steering column on Prius will not lock up when the ignition is turned off while the vehicle is moving – allowing the driver steering control. Traditional key type ignitions systems can be turned off while the vehicle is moving without locking the steering column – as long as the key is left in the ignition. Removal of the key may result in a locked steering column, and hamper driver steering control. After placing the transmission in Neutral, and the vehicle is brought to a stop at the side of the road, the final step should be to turn of the ignition.

Myth: The parking brake is effective in stopping a vehicle at speed.

Fact: The parking brake may be helpful in that it can provide some additional brakeforce. However, the amount of brakeforce the parking brake applies will be negligible in a vehicle that is running at anything over paring lot speeds. Placing the transmission in Neutral and using firm steady pressure on the brake pedal will be the best way to bring the vehicle to a stop.

Myth: The transmission would not go into Neutral when an attempt was made to put it in Neutral.

Fact: Prius does have an electronic link between the shift lever and the transmission. The driver should place the Prius in Neutral by moving the shift lever to the “N” position – to the left side of the shift gate, and hold it there for a second – this will put the Prius transmission in Neutral. Firm application of the brakes will slow the vehicle down. Pressing and holding the start/stop button can be used as a final action to stop the vehicle if needed.

Myth: The harder I pressed on the brake pedal, the more the vehicle accelerated.

Fact: In a situation where it appears to the driver that the brake pedal has been depressed, but acceleration results, the driver should stay calm and take immediate action by moving the transmission shift lever to Neutral, use a firm and steady application of the brakes, then get to the side of the road and assess the situation. Neutral allows the driver to gain immediate control, and provides the driver with time to evaluate what is happening to the vehicle.

Myth: Prius has an electronically controlled brake system, and I don’t believe it is as reliable as regular hydraulic brakes.

Fact: Prius does have an electronically controlled brake system which is as reliable as hydraulic brakes. This system utilizes both electric motor regenerative braking and hydraulic braking to stop the vehicle. The Prius system is able to recognize a fault in the regenerative braking system, and will send the driver’s brake input to the hydraulic brakes to stop the vehicle. Prius can also detect a fault in the hydraulic brake system booster, and allow all of the driver’s brake force to be directly sent to the two front brake calipers for maximum stopping power under a “no-boost” condition.

Myth: If I have a throttle stuck in the wide open position, and I put the vehicle in Neutral to help gain control of the vehicle, the engine will over rev, and be damaged.

Fact: If you place your vehicle in Neutral with a wide open throttle, you will hear a lot of engine noise, but don’t be overly concerned by this. All Toyota gasoline engines have a rev limiter function as a part of the engine control program that will prevent over revving of the engine by cutting the fuel supply at a predetermined RPM. This RPM limit varies – depending on the engine type.

Myth: The Brake Override System will make it difficult to start my vehicle on a hill.

Fact: The Brake Override System is designed to stop your vehicle when the brake pedal is firmly pressed in cases where there is acceleration caused by mechanical interference with the throttle pedal. For practical reasons – the Brake Override System will not operate when the brake pedal is depressed first – to allow for uphill starts, while limiting the vehicle’s tendency to roll backwards.  When engaged, the Brake Override System will disengage when the brake pedal is released. It will also not function at vehicle speeds of less than 5 mph, as at this point, the vehicle can be stopped safely.

Acknowledgement: Toyota.

The condition is rare and generally does not occur suddenly. It seems to occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position.

2. What do I do if I experience a sticking accelerator pedal before the fix is finalized? Should I bring my car to a dealer?

If you are experiencing this condition, immediately contact your nearest Toyota Dealer for assistance. No action is required at this time unless you feel you are experiencing this condition.

3. What is the actual issue affecting accelerator pedals?

In rare instances, there is a possibility that the affected accelerator pedal may stick in a partially downward position or slowly return to the non-pressed position.

4. Is there actually a problem with the vehicle’s computer/Electronic Control Unit?

Absolutely not. Toyota has never found an incident of unintended acceleration caused by the vehicle’s computer/electronic control unit.

5. Can I return my vehicle to Toyota if I purchased it in the five day period between the recall was announcement and Toyota stop sale on my vehicle? What are my options?

Toyota will work with customers who have concerns about their vehicles on a case-by-case basis.

6. How will Toyota handle fixing all affected vehicles in a timely manner?

Toyota is currently finalizing its recall remedy plans including a rapid deployment strategy of said remedy. Please continue to visit this site for updates on the recall.

7. Is this different than the Floor Mat Recall? If so, how?
There are two different recalls. Some vehicles are affected by both.

Sticking Pedal Accelerator Recall: The condition can occur in rare instances, over time, under certain environmental conditions – there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to idle position.

Potential Floor Mat Interference with Accelerator Pedal Recall: This condition is the potential for an unsecured or incompatible driver’s floor mat to interfere with or entrap the accelerator pedal and cause it to get stuck in the wide open position. Toyota has determined that this condition can occur in vehicles in which the driver’s side floor mat is not compatible with the vehicle and/or is not properly secured.

8. What if my vehicle is affected by both recalls? Which will be addressed first? It is

Toyota’s intention to remedy both at the same time.

9. Why are mechanically similar Lexus and Scion vehicles not affected by this recall?

The recall affected pedal is confined to one of Toyota’s suppliers. That supplier’s pedals are not used on Lexus and Scion vehicles.

10. Which models are affected by the sticky accelerator pedal recall/stop sale?

Toyota’s accelerator pedal recall and suspension of sales is confined to the following

Toyota Division vehicles:

* Certain 2009-2010 RAV4,
* Certain 2009-2010 Corolla,
* 2009-2010 Matrix,
* 2005-2010 Avalon,
* Certain 2007-2010 Camry,
* Certain 2010 Highlander,
* 2007-2010 Tundra,
* 2008-2010 Sequoia

Highlander hybrids and Camry hybrids are not affected by this action and will remain for sale.

Further, Camry, RAV 4, Corolla and Highlander vehicles with VINs that begin with “J” are not affected and will remain for sale.

Bridgestone Americas, and its team of winter driving and tire experts, has these tips to help ease some of the anxiety that comes with getting behind the wheel during inclement weather.

From how to avoid skidding on icy roads to freeing a car that’s stuck in the snow, they provide some valuable information that can help make winter driving hazard-free.

“Consumers should be aware that some businesses and individuals may try to sell salvaged and flood-damaged cars without revealing the vehicle history,” said Jason Day, Atlanta region vice president of purchasing for CarMax.  “Flood-damaged cars that are not structurally or mechanically sound could be repaired, re-titled, and sold to unsuspecting buyers.”

CarMax’s purchasing team offers these ten tips for identifying a vehicle with possible flood damage.  If any of these signs are identified, ask further questions to determine if flood damage occurred:

• Check for a moldy smell inside the car and feel the carpet for dampness
• Be suspicious of an older car with a brand new interior or carpeting
• Check for rust under the brake or gas pedals
• Look for dirt or rust under the dashboard and floor mats
• Inspect the bolts and screws under the seats for evidence of rust
• Check the undercarriage for excessive rust
• Check inside the trunk under the carpet and in the spare tire well area for rust, dirt or sand
• Look for corrosion, water marks, or a thin brown line on the exterior of the vehicle
• Check to see if the electrical system works
• Check the VIN number with AutoCheck or Carfax to see whether a flood claim has been filed or a salvage title has been issued on the vehicle

CarMax provides a free AutoCheck vehicle history report for every used vehicle.  CarMax’s nationwide team of more than 800 car-buyers is trained to detect whether a car has flood damage or has been in a major accident.  CarMax will not retail any car that has flood or frame damage or an odometer or title discrepancy.

Acknowledgment:- CarMax. Image in thumbnail is courtesy of Wikimedia and Infrogmation

Consumers will be able to take advantage of this program and receive a $3,500 or $4,500 discount from the car dealer when they trade in their old vehicle and purchase or lease a new one. Consumers you do not need to register anywhere or at anytime for this program.

Important things to know :

• Your vehicle must be less than 25 years old on the trade-in date
• Only purchase or lease of new vehicles qualify
• Generally, trade-in vehicles must get 18 or less MPG (some very large pick-up trucks and cargo vans have different requirements)
• Trade-in vehicles must be registered and insured continuously for the full year preceding the trade-in
• You don’t need a voucher, dealers will apply a credit at purchase
• Program runs through Nov 1, 2009 or when the funds are exhausted, whichever comes first.
• The program requires the scrapping of your eligible trade-in vehicle, and that the dealer disclose to you an estimate of the scrap value of your trade-in. The scrap value, however minimal, will be in addition to the rebate, and not in place of the rebate.

Note :

• Make sure the dealer is Authorized (NHTSA should have invited them).
• Purchases after July 1, 2009
• Program ends November 1, 2009 or before if the money runs out !

How it works :

• Make sure Dealer is eligible here.
• Documents to take to dealer
  • 1 Year proof of insurance on the car
  • Proof of registration going back at least 1 year.
  • “Clear” Title
  • Vehicle with manufactured date less than 25 years (on the door jamb of your car)
• Dealer should handle all the paperwork submission to NHTSA
• NHTSA checks the eligibility
• If all requirements are met, NHTSA issues the dealer a cheque for credit of the amount.

Source :- http://www.cars.gov/