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Typically (but not always), auto centers will calculate their automotive repair pricing by the hour using a labor guide or by the job performed.

Road trips are for those spontaneous, adventurous people who can just get up and go, with or without a plan. Long drives and road trips can get you to some neat places that airplanes can’t take you. Do you have friends, family, or other must-sees you would like to visit along the way? The beauty of driving, aside from driving with your feet propped up and hanging out of the open window, is that you can set your own schedule, take the time to make as many pit stops as you’d like, and see as many things as you want. Unless you’re stopping for a layover, planes won’t give you the option to do that. The fact that driving is often cheaper than flying anyway probably doesn’t hurt either. The main concern with driving long distances is obviously sitting in the car for an extended period and managing to stay away for numerous hours. If you’re taking a lengthy trip, not only does the sound of sitting in a car for six or more hours sound boring, but it also sounds rather uncomfortable. Add traveling with kids into the

Owning a car or truck is quite a financial commitment. Your vehicle needs regular infusions of gas and oil to work, as well as maintenance on a long list of systems and parts in order to run properly. Tires need to be kept at the right pressure. The battery needs to stay charged. Wipers need to be replaced. Headlights burn out. Tail lights need replacing. The list goes on and on.

Americans love their cars. We love buying them, owning them, and driving them. Some people even love caring for them. When a vehicle is clean, people experience real emotional benefits. Seeing a well-maintained car shining in the sun is a satisfying feeling that anyone can appreciate. However, walking up to a dirty or dusty vehicle can be disheartening. No wonder keeping cars and trucks clean is a national obsession.

Most Americans have been more or less stuck in place for the last year. However, as the COVID-19 vaccines gradually roll out and parts of the country begin to reopen, many are thinking about the possibility of summer road trips. But in order to go on a long road trip, a reliably working car is necessary. And since many have deferred car maintenance over the last year – perhaps because they haven’t been commuting during the pandemic, or because lost income makes it unaffordable – it is even more important to make sure the car is in working order before hitting the road. Car maintenance is always vital, but now more than ever car owners need to get everything up to par. Getting stranded in the middle of nowhere during a road trip is not a fun experience, so follow these tips on pre-trip car maintenance.

With the rise in gas prices, it is a great time to reflect on your driving habits. There are a few simple things you can do to improve your car's fuel efficiency. Limit your idling. Idling uses more fuel than restarting your car and gives off 80% more pollution than when your car is in motion. When you are waiting for someone, consider turning your car off. Keep your speed steady. After you hit 45-50mph, your car begins to be less fuel efficient, and it gets worse as you go faster. It's a good idea to use cruise control when possible. Additionally, rapid acceleration and hard braking use up fuel quickly, so you will also want to avoid those actions when you can. Check your tire pressure. When your tires are under inflated, fuel consumption can increase by as much as 3%. You will also risk wearing down your treads faster.