What To Do When You're Pulled Over

It's never a good feeling when you see those lights flash behind you, all angry and annoyed like. Sometimes, you know the reason why; you were pushing in the accelerator a little too much today or briefly got distracted by something along the side of the road and swerved a little. Other times, it can just be a simple, "Your tail light is out." Well, regardless of the reason, it can be an unnerving experience to get pulled over, and we'd like to help relieve some of that nervousness with some helpful tips of what you should do when this happens to you.

1) Keep your hands on the wheel.

This is probably the most important thing to do when you're pulled over as it keeps the officer at ease. Imagine being the officer's position, not knowing the intentions of the person who you just pulled over, and you see them scrambling around in the car. You don't know if they're reaching for their license, registration, and proof of insurance or something a little more malicious. Wait until the officer asks you for these things, let him know of your intentions, and then grab them.

2) Pull over as soon as you safely can.

It's recommended you don't take too long to pull over. When those lights go off, try to edge over to the right side of the road as safely as you can and as quickly as you can. This way you'll avoid the confusion and hassle of an initiated chase if you say, drive 2 or 3 blocks and have had ample opportunities to stop. If it's night, make sure to pull over in a well lit area (if possible) and on a not so busy highway or roadway. Turning your interior lights on is a good way to offer some additional relief to the officer as well.

3) Be respectful.

The officer is more likely to respect you, if you respect them. Being polite and prompt means you're likely to receive the same kind of treatment. Treat the officer the way you'd like to be treated.

The 2017 Fusion

Ford has been pretty closed-mouthed about what’s on the horizon for the Fusion, but recent spy shots and speculations give us a better idea of what we’re likely to see.  Here’s what we can tentatively look forward to seeing:

-Styling focused on a more sophisticated look

-Grille toned down from the current design, small corner window will be replaced with front side glass

-Soft-touch surfaces, matte wood trim for the interior

-Added rotary gear selector, similar to what you’d see in a Jaguar

-Technology specs are still a bit iffy, but Autoblog guesses that the new Fusion will be equipped with Microsoft SYNC

Caring For Your Car's Exterior

If your car is looking a little less glorious than you're used to, there's no better way to return it to its previous state than through a good old fashioned car wash. Now, we don't mean take it to the nearest gas station drive through car wash where it'll be treated like just another car. No, your car deserves a little more personal touch. So grab your bucket and your mitt because it's time to go to work.

Some things you will need:

• A cotton or (paint safe) microfiber washing mitt - decreases scratching risk.
• Automotive purpose soap/wash - they're pH balanced so they won't strip the wax off your car and are combined with a lubricant to help your car keep its shine protection. 
• Wax (like carnauba or synthetic wax) or a paint sealant. Carnauba wax is good for maximum shine and solid protection, but only maintains its integrity for roughly 8-12 weeks. A sealant will last 6 months on average. It won't shine as well, but you'll have to apply it less.
• Most of your day - To give your car a good detailing, it'll take a good amount of time, so be prepared and keep your schedule clear.

Washing Your Car

1) Spray it down.

The first step is also one of the most important. Giving your car a really good spray will help take away all of the dirt and grime which can be scratch your vehicle while applying the soaping product. Use a moderately powered spray, nothing too crazy here. Also make sure you're washing your car out of direct sunlight and your car is cool to the touch.

2) Wash in sections

Wash and rinse your car off in sections. This will give you time to dry everything off before moving on to the next section. Not doing so will lead to water spots.

3) Remember to wipe off your windshield wipers.

Over time, dirt can build up on the blades, and scratch your windshield when in use, so it's good to wipe these off whenever you can.

4) Apply wax or sealant.

So, it's time to make your car really look pretty. As with a wash, work in the shade to prevent it from drying too quickly and becoming too difficult to buff off. Make sure your car is dried off completely as mixing water can make the wax or sealant streak. Use the thinnest coat you can as a lot of wax or sealant can be difficult to buff off, streak, and just become an overall mess. A thin coat takes less time and ensures you are able to get the shine you want. It's always easier to add a little more (after letting the first coat cure of course) than removing too much.

Apply the product to the applicator and not the vehicle. Work a section at a time, and let the wax dry. Run a finger across it and if it begins to break ahead of your finger, then it's ready to come off. Use a microfiber towel to buff it off (gently!) or if you used a powered polisher, use a new pad.

College Check List

Whether your son or daughter is starting their first semester of college, or returning for another year it's important to make sure their car is in running order. No matter what the driving situation, whether commuting in state or traveling across country, there are some things you should check before sending them off for their first day. Here are some basic things we recommend taking a look at.

1) Check your fluids.

There are three essentail fluids you need to make sure are topped off or are at the recommended levels before going anywhere. The first is the oil. Check the dip stick on a flat level surface and make sure the oil level is between the recommended volume. Keeping an engine well lubricated is the first step to a long lasting and healthy motor life. The second is the coolant. Take a look at the coolant levels for your radiator, especially if cross country travel is required. You don't want to start the school year on the wrong foot by breaking down before you even get there. The last thing you need to check is the washer fluid levels. Dirty windshields look terrible and can make visibility poor. Double check the levels and make sure you can clean them at will. While you're at it, make sure your windshield wipers are in good shape too.

2) Check your battery.

Even if your battery isn't two years old, make sure it's charged and capable of holding a charge. Get it checked out by a professional to ensure accurate results or a replacement if necessary.

3) Light check.

Make sure all of your lights are working as they should. Turn signals are flashing, headlights are well lit and properly aligned, and your brake lights are working. If any of these aren't working, you run the risk of not only getting pulled over, but also potentially creating hazardous driving conditions. These are the only ways we have to communicate with other drivers so make sure they're working as they should.

4) Tire pressure check.

By glancing at the sticker either on the door panel, glove compartment, and in some vehicles the gas cap, you can learn the proper PSI required for each tire. Note that this is often referred to as the cold PSI level, which is the pressure your tires should be at when at rest. As hotter temperatures can artificially inflate PSI levels, it's a good idea to check the tire pressure after they've been at rest for over 30 minutes. This ensures the air is at the proper temperature and won't give you any false readings. Proper air pressure ensures your tires will all wear evenly, thus lasting longer, as well as ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency. It also reduces your risk of a dangerous blowout, so it's important for your air pressure to be at the correct levels. If you're unsure of how to check, add, or reduce the air in a tire, consult a professional.

5) Penny test.

Another aspect of the tire you need to check is the tread level. This lets you know when your tire is getting too old or worn, and that it requires replacement. If you take a penny, place it upside down (so Abe's head is facing the tire) and place it into the tire, look to see if his head is covered. If you can't see his head your tread is at adequate levels, but if you can see his head then it's time to get the tires replaced.

6) Keep emergency items on hand.

Make sure your car is stock with the emergency essentials! Spare tires, jumper cables, and a basic safety kit are all important in case an emergency situation arises. It's also important to know how to use all of these basic materials. The last thing you want to do is try to jump your car battery and accidentally shock yourself because you weren't sure how to ground the charge.

7) Other important stuff to carry.

Back up phone chargers, older phones (which can still call 911 even if they're disconnected and if they have a signal), tire gauge, map, and an emergency call list. Paper isn't susceptible to heat, a dead battery, or a bad signal so it's always good to keep these old fashioned classics on hand just in case.