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Winter can take quite a toll on your vehicle. While some vehicle owners are fortunate enough to be able to park in a garage, others have to park outside. Below, you will find out how to protect your car if you will be parking your car outdoors during the harsh winter months.

Portable carport

Purchasing a portable carport is an inexpensive way of keeping weather elements from taking a toll on your car. There are various coverings, tents, and tarps from which to choose. They are available in several colours and sizes. When buying yours, make sure that it is the right size and easy to fit your car into, even in a hurry.

Waxing and polishing

Wax is excellent for sealing the paint on your vehicle. Not only is this beneficial during the hot summer months, but it is also good to have that extra layer of protection during the winter. Many drivers agree that there is nothing like professional wax to help protect your car. Shelf products work for a while but they don’t last as long or work nearly as well. Polishing your car regularly (but not too frequently) is also great for protecting the paint both in summer and winter seasons.

Sunshades

During the warmer months, the sun can take its toll on the interior of your vehicle. If you have ever parked your car on a hot day only to return to something that resembles a sauna, then you can benefit from sunshades. Sunshades reflect the light so that your car stays cool. They are also a great way of protecting various interior features of your car like the upholstery, trim, and dashboard. Components such as your dashboard can become dry and brittle, and they can eventually crack. Special shades can also be fitted to your rear passenger windows, these will help keep repel the sun and heat even while driving.

Regular washing

Whether you drive your car all day or only to work and back, you can be sure that dirt and debris will accumulate over time. There is no way of avoiding dirt, but regular car washing will help get rid of it and keep your car looking great. If you leave the dirt on your car too long it will eventually cause light scratching and possibly even more severe damage. Professional detailing is often preferred because it is convenient, fast, and offers the best results. Automatic car washes can sometimes do more harm than good and hand washing is time-consuming and over the counter most car wash products are not of the highest quality.

Careful parking

Take care when selecting your parking spot. It’s not just about looking for some shade, but also being aware of the surroundings. Certain trees drop sap which can eat away at the paint on your car. Even sticks and leaves can cause damage. They can stick to your car and release harmful properties that damage the paint.

Dry after a wash

After washing your car in the summer, it might be tempting to allow it to air dry. If you take it out into the sun after washing it, the UV rays are magnified by the water droplets. This will result in hard water deposits that can become etched on the surface of your car. It can also leave spots on your windows, which make it difficult to see properly. Dry your car thoroughly after every wash to prevent water damage.

Carport

If you have the space, you could install a carport to park your car under. During the summer it will offer protection from the sun and any debris from trees. If you install a temporary tarp, the elements will eventually take their toll on the material coverings but it’s better than letting damaging elements have their way with the paint on your car! Plus, who can resist having their very own shaded parking bay at home? It might not be a garage, but it is the next best thing.


Protecting your car is not just about keeping it looking good, mechanical maintenance and having the safety net of a warranty will certainly set your mind at ease. For an extended warranty plan designed to cater to your specific needs, contact A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 today.
 

At A-Protect Warranty, we want you to keep your vehicle secure throughout the year. Few seasons put as many demands on our vehicles as winter can.

Winter puts our cars through a lot

The worst part is that it’s a combination of factors. Extreme temperatures, bad weather, and other elements can cause a considerable amount of damage to your car throughout the season. Worse yet, winter also forces a certain additional strain on the motor. For example, did you ever consider just how much your battery goes through between December and February?

While our cars certainly take a beating during this time of the year, there are thankfully a number of things you can do to keep your vehicle driving securely through the winter.

Tips to protect your car during winter

It seems reasonable to say that your car is one of your most valuable investments. For many people, particularly those who rent, the car represents your largest investment. To that end, you should want to do everything possible to protect your vehicle. This can include investing some time and money into items that may not seem like an immediate threat. Although it may be tempting to put off some repairs, they could quickly turn into major expenses if not dealt with. For example, an old battery can quickly become a dead battery in the cold winter months.

Such problems are sometimes inevitable, but there are still numerous actions you can take to protect your crucial investment:

•  Checking the battery: We just touched on this, and it might just be the most important thing you can do for your car or truck during the winter. Remember that if the temperature drops to thirty-two degrees, you’ve lost as much as thirty-five percent of your battery’s power. If your battery wasn’t at 100% to start with, you can see how this might be a problem. Get your battery checked out in the late fall to make sure it will be sufficient for the winter months.

•  Wash the car: On particularly cold days, a vehicle with a filthy exterior can be difficult to open because handles and other parts can freeze. The best thing to do is to have your car washed on a semi-regular basis. Ideally you should try to get your car washed on days when the temperature is above freezing. Furthermore, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on this. You can accomplish a lot with the basic wash at any local carwash facility.

•  Winter tires? This can be tricky to answer. The truth is that not all vehicles need winter tires. The decision is ultimately going to come down to what a typical winter brings to your area. Do you have a lot of snow and ice? If the answer is yes, then it is almost a certainty that winter tires are going to be ideal. Yes, they can run you as much as a thousand dollars, depending on what you need, but the investment is ultimately worth it.

•  Get the wipers replaced: You should have your wipers replaced every six months to a year or so. Try to time your next replacement to late fall. Be on the lookout for any squeaking or smearing from your wipers. In either circumstance, you are going to need new windshield wipers.

•  Know where to go for repairs: One of the smartest things you can do to protect your car during the winter is to know where the best mechanic can be found. We all know that damages can happen during the winter and in such circumstances, it is invaluable to know where to go for the help you need. You want a repair facility that is reliable, and you certainly want someone who is going to charge reasonable rates. It may be helpful to do some research on the best auto mechanics in your area. You don’t want to wait until you are dealing with an actual emergency.

In terms of how to care for your car during the winter, it also helps to have your warranty on hand. Make sure you can bring this information out in the event of an accident or any other serious event involving your vehicle.

Finally, consider joining CAA. While this is another measure that is going to cost some money, the value is going to be pretty apparent from the start. Membership can be extremely useful during the rougher months of the year. If you live in an area that deals with a lot of snow, high winds, freezing temperatures, and other weather related hassles, the odds of running into problems increase a significant degree.

While we can’t plan for absolutely everything, there are always going to be things we can do to make sure we’re ready for the worst.
To set your mind at ease, contact A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 today to discuss the best warranty option to protect you and your vehicle.

One of the main concerns every time you drive is road safety. Not only do you need to consider possible risks that you may encounter out on the road, but you must also make sure that your car is safe. Vehicle safety features help keep you, your travel companions, and fellow road users safe. The good news is that vehicle safety has come a long way over the years and regular improvements made by car manufacturers mean improved safety. It should go without saying that you should look for a vehicle with sufficient airbags and you should always buckle up even if you’re driving short distances. Listed below are some other safety features to look for.
 

Adaptive cruise control

Most new cars come with this feature. With the help of sensors and radar technology, this feature helps ensure that you keep a safe distance from any vehicles ahead. The throttle is automatically applied when needed and brakes are employed automatically when there is traffic ahead. This is a great feature for long distance drivers but it’s not something you would use in a busy city. This system will trigger sharp braking and tighten the seatbelts when used in high traffic situations.
 

Automatic Emergency Braking

While we like to believe that we have cat-like reflexes when behind the wheel, this is not necessarily always the case. For example, when you are tired, you might not be able to react as quickly as you should. AEB technology senses a potential collision and, if you do not react in time, it will start braking for you. These crucial seconds can make all the difference. These systems tend to vary between different vehicle manufacturers and some claim to be superior while others have been reported to be a bit oversensitive.
 

Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep

These are two separate systems but they share a common purpose – to keep you in your lane. If you are crossing the lines and leaving your lane, the lane departure system will sound a buzzing noise. Lane Keep, on the other hand, helps steer you back into your lane if you have drifted out. This feature can save the lives of tired drivers and those who suffer from something called driver’s hypnosis.
 

Blind Spot Detection

Far too many accidents occur when drivers neglect to check their blind spots or fail to do so correctly. With this Blind Spot Detection tool, you will be warned by small yellow or orange lights shining in your door mirrors. They let you know that there is a vehicle coming up behind you in one of the other lanes and it might not be safe for you to make a lane change at this stage.
 

Rear-view Camera

This is a fantastic tool to check what’s coming up behind you when reversing. It’s especially good for protecting animals and children from being accidentally run over. The wide-angle lenses of these cameras give you a full 180-degree view which makes reversing safer than ever.
 

Upcoming technologies

These features are all great but why stop there? Why not make our cars even safer by creating new technologies and improving the older ones? Well, this is the great thing about technology – it’s always evolving and we always have new features to look forward to as car manufacturers improve their technologies. A feature known as Safety Exit Assist has already been installed on some vehicles but it could become the new standard for all cars. It temporarily prevents children from opening back doors when bicycles and cars are approaching from behind. It works in a similar way as the blind spot monitor and this feature is sure to become a must for parents. Facial Recognition Software can also be used in many ways including monitoring the alertness of the driver. For now, this kind of software is designed to alert the driver with a buzzing noise but, in the future, we could see it take more of a proactive approach. Then there are also advancements to technologies like night vision which help warn drivers of pedestrians and bicycles on the road at night and smart headlights that automatically switch from hi- to low-beam when cars approach.

Remember, no matter how many safety features you have installed on your vehicle, it’s always important to make sure that you are as alert and responsible as possible. Never drive when tired, sick, on medication that can impair your ability to react, or if you are impared. At the end of the day, your decisions have the greatest impact. The same can be said for your vehicle coverage and insurance. To best protect your vehicle, make sure that you invest in the right used vehicle warranty plan. Call A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 for personal assistance in choosing the perfect plan for you.
 

If you are stuck on the side of the road, it can be quite distressing. The first thing that comes to mind is the fact that you will need to get your car towed. Before you do anything, be sure to remember the following important steps:
 

Pull over to a safe spot

Is your car blocking the flow of traffic? If you are in the middle of the road, you will need to pull over so that you don’t cause an accident. If the engine is not running, you will need to push your car off the road. You should have reflective warning triangle in your car and in the case of a breakdown, put them out to warn other motorists. If possible, turn on your hazard lights. If it is not possible, you should tie something red to your car to increase visibility.
 

Call in the claim

It might be tempting to call a towing service as soon as you encounter a problem but you should contact your warranty provider first. If your vehicle has an extended warranty, it’s important for you to submit your claim and request instructions. Your warranty provider might allow you to choose any towing company you wish or you may have to contact somebody on their approved list. In some cases, they may even contact a tow truck on your behalf. Make sure that you understand your obligations as well as what to expect on their part. You should also ask for a time estimate on the arrival of the towing service.
 

Call the authorities

If you were involved in an accident, you will also need to contact the relevant authorities to report the incident. This is not only the case if you were involved in an accident with another motorist, but also when property damage is involved. Failing to report an accident can have serious legal implications. You will also need a case number in order to claim from your accident insurance. Even if another driver is at fault, their insurance company will need your claim number.
 

Remove your valuables

While you wait, you should take the time to remove any important or valuable items from your vehicle. This goes for items of sentimental value too. Not only is this for your own peace of mind, but it’s also to ensure that you have all of your belongings and you don’t need to make a trip to the location where your vehicle is being stored while awaiting repairs. Towing companies and repairers are not responsible for the loss or damage of personal items left behind in your car.
 

Stay calm, wait, and do not dehydrate

Now, all you can do is wait and stay calm. Try not to drain the battery on your phone; you never know when you might need to make another phone call. Don’t forget to stay hydrated and snack occasionally to keep your strength up. A tow truck might arrive within minutes if you are close to the city, but if you are further away, it can take an hour, or perhaps even longer.
 

Where will your car be taken?

When the tow truck arrives, make sure that you know where your car will be taken. The driver might be willing to drop you off somewhere along the way, or you can travel along with the car to wherever it will go. It is best to have the car towed to the place where it will most likely be repaired. If you have it towed to your home, you will have to pay to have it towed again from your home to the repair shop. Make sure that the driver provides you with a collection slip that you can keep as proof that they towed your car. Your warranty provider will also need a receipt as proof of what you paid to have the car towed. You will be reimbursed after submitting your receipt. Ask the driver for their name and feel free to take down the license plate number of the tow truck too. They should give you a business card or contact details of the tow truck company. You should also ask for the contact details of the repairer. If you decide to go along with your car to the repair shop, you could always ask them for a business card. Feel free to follow up with your warranty provider regarding the progress of your claim and, if necessary, inquire about a courtesy vehicle. Keep in mind, courtesy cars are usually only available for a certain amount of time. After which, if your car is still not fixed, you may have to rent a car while repairs are being completed.

For peace of mind, it’s important to ensure that your car is always covered by a suitable warranty. Contact A-Protect Warranty today at 1-866-660-6444 for professional assistance from our friendly team. Not only will we help you select the best extended warranty, but we will also keep your personal needs in your mind while we do so.
 

Car care is important throughout the year. Each season brings a fair bit of changes in terms of weather and driving conditions and it is important to make sure that your car is always in good driving shape. Here are some essential car maintenance tips for summer.

Tires

Your tires are what keeps you on the road. They are the only part of your car that are in contact with the road, which is why it’s so important to choose the right tires and inspect them regularly. Your tires need to have enough tread, no bulges or cracks, and you should also check the pressure on a regular basis. Winter tires should only be used during the winter months and you need to replace them with your summer tires as soon as the weather warms up and you get the green light from the local authorities.

Oil change

The oil level and quality should be checked on a regular basis and oil changes should be done according to the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines. You need to do so when the engine is cold. This is best done in the morning before you start your car. To check your oil levels start your car, remove the dipstick, wipe it off, and insert it again before removing it to check the level on the stick. Inspect the color and viscosity of the oil. Regardless of levels and consistency, oil needs to be changed after a set amount of time or mileage. The oil filter will also needs to be changed regularly.

Hose and belt check

There are several hoses and belts that experience wear and tear every time you start the engine. Sometimes these parts break unexpectedly but, if a regular maintenance schedule is followed, you can replace worn belts and hoses before they let you down.

Air filter

Your air filter needs to be changed regularly since it is bound to get clogged eventually. Particularly in the winter, salt can take its toll on your filters. Therefore, when the warmer weather arrives, be sure to have your mechanic to check your filters.

Windscreen wipers

Spring and summer rain can to come down hard, which means that you need reliable wipers to keep your windscreen clear. Inspect your wipers for cracks and wear. Test them regularly to make sure that they aren’t missing any spots. Replace them regularly and always choose quality wipers for your car.

Brakes

Your brakes are an essential part of vehicle safety. Each time you change your brakes, you will be informed that they will need to be replaced after covering a certain amount of mileage. Pay attention if your brake pedal is noisy, soft or extremely hard, or it rests too high or low or there is an indicator light on your dashboard. These are all warning signs. If you don’t have your brakes changed before you notice these signs, you should definitely have them tended to as soon as even the slightest issue arises.

Coolant and radiator

Your radiator and the coolant in your engine are needed for keeping your engine from getting too hot. They are especially important in the summer because of rising temperatures. Make sure that you check your radiator for any possible signs of damage and top up or replace the coolant before it gets too hot.

Battery cleaning

Your battery often loses some of its charge during the colder weather. On top of this, the summer heat speeds up the chemical reaction inside the battery which also shortens its lifespan. By keeping the terminals of the battery clean, you will help extend its life.

Air conditioner

You should have your air conditioner inspected before summer begins. Inspect the hoses, connections, and determine whether a refill is necessary. By completing this inspection before it gets too hot, you will avoid a lot of unnecessary discomfort. Take note of any odors and make sure that you have your air conditioner checked if it starts to smell strange.

Emergency supplies

You might not need to keep a snow shovel in your car during the next few months but you will still need several emergency supplies. One of the most important supplies is water. When you leave a plastic bottle of water in your car be sure not to consume it. This water is strictly for external use or to top up the water in your vehicle. If you want to keep drinking water in your car, you should take a fresh bottle each time you take a drive.

Having the right coverage for your vehicle is also essential for road safety. At A-Protect Warranty, we offer a wide variety of different warranty options to suit various needs and budgets. Call 1-866-660-6444 today for professional advice from our expert team.
 

Just when we think that the worst of the winter is over and we can finally enjoy safer driving conditions, we are faced with risks resulting from the changing weather. When you venture out in the spring, keep these common dangers in mind.

Potholes

The cold weather, snow, and salt on the roads can cause significant damage in just a few months. Small holes in the road can become quite large over the winter and, once everything has thawed out, it becomes even more evident just how dangerous they really are. Hitting a pothole can cause you to lose control. It can also cause serious damage to your vehicle. Pay close attention to the road and look out for such dangers.

Excess water on the roads

When and ice are melting, you can expect excess water on the roads. It will take time for the water to filter away and, no matter the temperatures, wet roads are always more dangerous than dry roads for various reasons. Water can conceal potholes, and if you happen to hit a large puddle and splash another driver, it can result in them losing control over their vehicle. Therefore, be careful and considerate of other road users too. As the snow melts, be sure to take a moment to inspect your tires well. Make sure that they are in good condition. If they are excessively worn, they may cause you to lose control when you encounter a large puddle. Reduce your speed and always keep a safe distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you.

Slippery slush

It’s not only water that can cause you to slip and slide along the road. Half melted snow is one of the dangers people dislike about winter. Slush is both frozen and wet, not to mention extra slippery! If you spot slush in the middle of the road or even on the side of the road, proceed with caution. Slush can also accumulate on your windshield therefore, if your windshield wipers cannot clear it away completely, you should pull over to clear it off yourself before you continue driving.

Black ice

Yes, black ice is still a concern, even as winter winds down. Although snow and ice tend to melt during the day, overnight, when temperatures drop again, the water freezes. Since the roads are often wet, it makes black ice even more difficult to detect. During winter’s end early in the morning is probably one of the more dangerous times for driving. It’s also important to note that when there is more traffic, there is a lesser the chance of black ice, but if If you are driving along a road with minimal traffic each day, black ice can form whenever it’s cold enough for water to freeze on the road. Bridges and lower lying areas are usually more prone to black ice but, all the same, it’s best to be cautious no matter where you are driving. Reduce your speed and keep some extra distance between yourself and other road users.

Poor vehicle maintenance

Just as the winter takes its toll on the roads, it can also cause significant wear and tear on your vehicle. This is why it is so important to inspect your vehicle before winter arrives. Once the worst of the weather is over, it’s time to give your car a thorough check once again to make sure that everything is in order. Check all of your fluids, inspect your tires and have a technician check your suspension and other important mechanical parts too. Remember, if you find that your car struggles to start, it might be time to replace your battery. During cold weather, your car battery loses its charge faster than during warmer weather. Have a technician check your battery and your alternator. If your alternator is faulty, your battery will not recharge while the motor is running and, even if you replace the battery. In that case it won’t be long before the new battery fails you too.

As for your tires, you should make sure that you find out when you are permitted to switch from winter to summer tires. Remember to also use your common sense too because even if you technically can change your tires, there might be some reasons why you might not want to wait. The slush and ice risks discussed above are reason enough to hang on to those winter tires just a little bit longer. Provided that your winter tires aren’t damaged or severely worn, there is no need to change them in the very first few weeks of spring.

Once you have addressed both mechanical and maintenance issues, don’t forget to give your car a good wash! It might sound trivial but all that snow, ice, and salt can really do a number on your paint job. So, treat your car to some much-needed pampering to thank it for getting you through the worst weather of the year!

By taking the right driving and vehicle maintenance steps, you will make every trip that much safer no matter the weather! To avoid any unnecessary and high repair costs, make sure that your vehicle is covered by the right warranty. Call A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 for coverage designed to suit your needs!
 

Visibility is one of the greatest challenges when driving in winter. Not only is it essential for you to see where you are going, but it’s also important to make sure that other road users can see you too. Improving driving visibility is essential for avoiding accidents – especially during this time of year. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

Clear away all snow from your vehicle

It should go without saying that you will need to clean all the snow off your windows before you drive. However, many people do not take the time to clean the entire windscreen as well as the rear and side windows of their car. This can be particularly dangerous since the snow/ice directly affecting your view of the road and your surroundings. Apart from cleaning your windows, it’s also important to clear the snow off the rest of your car. This is not necessarily only for your benefit but rather for the benefit of fellow road users. When you leave snow on your car, it will fall off as you drive. This can create an almost blizzard-like haze behind your vehicle and this makes it difficult for drivers behind you to see properly. If you need to brake suddenly, the driver behind you could be slow to react as a result of poor visibility. Take the time to get up a few minutes earlier during the winter months and clean your car thoroughly before hitting the road.

Inspect your window wipers and defroster

Your windscreen wipers need to be in perfect shape throughout the entire year. This is especially true in the winter. You never know when snow might fall and it’s important that you are able to effectively clean your windscreen at all times. During the colder months, your windows tend to fog up, so it is very important to test your window defoggers/defrosters – both front and rear. A foggy window makes the road extremely difficult to navigate.

Use your headlights

During low light and other periods of poor visibility on the road, it’s best to turn your headlights on. This is not only to help you see the road better but also to make yourself more visible to others. Remember, it’s important to check your headlights regularly because if they start to become dull or cloudy, they might need to restored or replaced. Clear plastic coverings on your headlights will ensure that they are as effective as can be.

Finally, don’t forget that visibility is just as important if you are stuck on the side of the road. Some important tips to remember include turning on your directional lights, setting out a road triangle, and perhaps attaching a bright-colored cloth to your vehicle. Always remain inside your vehicle and call for assistance promptly. Comprehensive vehicle coverage will ensure that you and your loved ones are taken care of and your vehicle will be moved to a safe location by experienced professionals. Contact A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 for assistance choosing the right plan for you.
 

Winter is the perfect time to enjoy the indoors and snuggle up beside a fire or enjoy your favorite hot beverage. Unfortunately, we can’t spend the whole winter inside and, at some point, we need to venture out on the roads. These weather conditions can make driving more challenging than any other time of year but with these tips you will be able to safely navigate the ice and snow-covered roads.

Black Ice

Probably one of the worst dangers to encounter while driving is black ice. You can’t really see it but you sure can feel when you’ll hit it! It’s important to pay close attention to the road and look for patches of road that appear darker in color than usual. Low-lying areas are usually most affected as well as bridges and underpasses that don’t receive any sunshine. When temperatures drop below freezing, it’s time to look out for black ice. Even if things warm up in the day, black ice often forms overnight when the temperatures drop. Improve your chances of avoiding an accident by making sure that your tires are in perfect shape. Winter tires are necessary and will give you that extra necessary traction. If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, you can use it as an added safety measure. However, this does not mean that you should increase your speed! Winter tires or not, you should still drive slower than the usual speed limit. Do not tailgate and allow other drivers to pass you if necessary. You might not be able to stop others from speeding, but by allowing them to pass if it is safe to do so reducing your chances of an accident. If you hit black ice, take your foot off the accelerator. Do not brake immediately. To avoid loosing control apply your foot to the brake pedal gently. If your vehicle has a manual transmission, you can gear down to slow down rather than using your brakes. Remember not to shift too quickly and mind your revs. You don’t want to shift down from fourth straight to second or you could run those revs far into the red. If your car does skid, turn your steering wheel in the direction you want to go. For vehicles with anti-lock brakes, do not pump the brakes and don’t remove your foot from the brake. The anti-lock system will work to prevent the breaks from locking up.

Poor visibility

Some conditions are just not safe for driving and, in these cases, it’s best not to risk it. If you are planning on driving, make sure that you take the time to clear all of the snow and ice from your vehicle before you hit the road. Check your windshield wipers and make sure that your washer fluid has antifreeze in it. Test your defrosters to make sure that they are working and always travel at a safe distance from other cars.

Blizzards

While you might not intentionally go out in a blizzard, you could get caught in one while driving. If this occurs, it’s important to get off the highway as soon as possible. If you cannot get off the highway, you should at least pull over as much as possible and keep your directional lights on to warn other motorists. High winds during blizzards mean that your little warning triangle might not do the trick. Instead, attach a colorful piece of cloth to your vehicle’s antenna, mirror, or somewhere that will help ensure you are noticed. If you are stuck, call for help and make sure that at least one person in the car is awake while anyone else sleeps. Start your car from time to time and let the engine run to ensure that the car battery is not exhausted. Clear the snow from the exhaust pipe regularly.

Don’t forget to always pack a first aid kit in your vehicle. In winter, it’s also important to carry tools like a shovel just in case you need to dig your way out of some snow. Having the right coverage will also set your mind at ease. At A-Protect Warranty, our plans are designed to suit your needs and offer maximum protection in the event of a roadside emergency or vehicle maintenance. Contact us today at 1-866-660-6444.
 

For families who no longer live in the same town or city, the holidays are the perfect time to get together and enjoy some quality family time. Other families make the most of the holiday season by getting out of town and making their way to a resort or other popular holiday spot. No matter your plans this year, it’s always important to pay close attention to the road and the state of your vehicle. Here are some important holiday driving tips.
 

Inspect your vehicle thoroughly

It’s often best to work according to a list so that you don’t skip a step or miss something. Start by checking your lights, tires, windshield wipers, and all the fluids in your vehicle. It’s also good to keep an extra bottle of wiper fluid in your vehicle just in case.
 

Fill up the tank

Fuel prices can increase over the holidays so, if you know that you are preparing to go away, you should fill up a few days or even a week in advance. If need be, you can top up on the day but at least you won’t need to overspend to fill an almost empty tank.
 

Stick to the speed limit

Given the road conditions, it’s even more important to stick to the speed limit or even travel slower than usual if conditions are particularly poor. During the festive season, there are usually extra police officers and speed traps on the roads so it pays to slow down.
 

Rest well before you drive

Driving when you are tired is never a good idea. Especially when you need to concentrate that much harder on the road and conditions. If you are tired, you will not be able to react as quickly to avoid danger and this can have disastrous results. If you have a long road ahead, plan your stops and give yourself time to stretch your legs. If possible, have your partner, spouse, or friend take over driving from time to time so that you can enjoy a break. Beware of driving “hypnosis” when on long trips. It’s easy to let the hum of the engine and the straight road lull you into a bit of a trance. If you are feeling particularly exhausted, it’s best to sleep it off at a hotel or motel rather than risk the drive.
 

Lock up

Whenever parking your vehicle, make sure that it’s properly secured. Even if you think that you’re in a small town where crime is virtually non-existent, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Do not leave babies or children in the car. If you don’t want to wake them, at least one adult should remain in the vehicle to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
 

Plan the route

It’s good to have a plan before you leave. Sure, you could rely on your GPS but, if for whatever reason your GPS lets you down, it’s also good to have a backup plan like an actual map. It might sound like an outdated idea but if technology fails, good old-fashioned paper will get you out of that pickle!
 

Check your emergency supplies

Your vehicle should always carry a first aid kit but, in winter, you might want to add such things as a shovel and other roadside emergency items. Reflective triangles and a reflective vest are all great for letting other drivers know where you are.
 

Charge all phones

In the event of an emergency, you will need to be able to call for assistance. There’s nothing worse than a dead phone battery when you need to make that call! Make sure that you have at least one or two fully charged phones before you leave. Alternatively, keep a fully charged power bank just in case. Sure, you can charge your phone in your car but, if your vehicle won’t start, this will mean that you cannot charge your phone either.
 

Avoid alcohol

Not only is drinking and driving dangerous, but it’s also illegal. Some people think that it’s OK to drink the night before and drive the next day. This is not advisable since you will most likely still have alcohol in your system and you will probably feel quite tired. Both of these factors will affect your driving capabilities and safety. So, instead of drinking the night before your trip, wait until you arrive at your destination and then take a moment to celebrate with some eggnog, rum, or whatever you fancy.
 

Early departure

Leaving early can help you beat the traffic and make for safer driving conditions too. Sometimes you can leave in the morning, sometimes you will need to plan to leave a full day early. Consider where you plan on going, the route you wish to take, and when the congestion usually begins. Similarly, when making your way back home, you might want to leave at least one day early to avoid all the traffic of people returning. Just one day can make all the difference!
 

Have fun

Remember, the holidays are about having a good time and the fun does not need to begin once you arrive at your destination. You can make the trip fun by choosing great music, playing travel games and simply talking. Make sure that any younger travelers have more than enough car friendly toys to keep them happy and don’t forget the snacks!

Remember, anytime you get into your car, make sure that you have your vehicle warranty details on hand. An emergency may occur at any time and these details are essential in such a time of need. To make sure that you are covered these holidays, call A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 for more information.
 

When you notice a wet patch under your car, it can be a sign of something serious or simple condensation. Your vehicle relies on a number of fluids to keep it running smoothly and, when you see a puddle, there could be a number of reasons. In some cases, your car might not be safe to drive which is why it’s so important that you understand how to tell the difference between these substances.

Black or light brown patches

This stain will have a medium consistency and it is usually the engine oil. There are several gaskets, plenty of heat, and your engine has one of the largest capacities for fluid in the entire vehicle. It might not be a major cause for concern but the source of the leak should be determined so that any worn or broken parts can be replaced. Remember, dripping oil on a hot engine is never a good idea!

Black, reddish, or light brown patches

These stains can have a thicker or thinner consistency. They often resemble patches made by dripping motor oil but they are somewhat thicker and located closer to the center of the vehicle. Vehicles with automatic transmissions have a fairly thin, reddish fluid which is the transmission fluid. Some other standard transmissions today also use this kind of fluid. This kind of leak can indicate a leak in a number of places or there could be a deteriorating seal somewhere along the line. Urgent inspection is important.

Light brown or reddish

This fluid has a thin consistency. It is your power steering fluid and it sometimes looks similar to your transmission fluid. If this fluid is dripping from the front of the car, then it’s the power steering. This is another important issue that needs to be resolved promptly or it could result in power steering failure.

Slightly brown or clear

This fluid is critical and used in the brake hydraulic system. It has a medium consistency and it will look like mineral oil and may have a slightly brown appearance. This is due to the build up of contaminants like rust and dust. Again, this is an important fluid and you should have this matter resolved immediately.

Differential fluid

This fluid is thick in consistency and it will drip from the rear of the car. Cars with front wheel drive, however, will experience leaks in the front. Finding the source of this leak may take some extra effort.

Green pink or yellow

This fluid is thin and slimy. It is your coolant and it is one of the easiest of all to identify. If you lose this fluid, it can result in overheating which is why it’s important to check your vehicle regularly. Older cars have hoses that allow the coolant to purge out onto the driveway or road. Newer cars, however, have special reservoirs designed to catch the coolant. So, if you have an old car, you might want to check if it has such a hose. If not, make sure that you check all the hoses, water pump, and never drive when your coolant is low.

Clear liquid

If you notice clear thin fluid under the front passenger side of the car, it might be due to condensation from your air conditioner. Just like home and office air conditioners release condensation, so too does your car.

Some fluid loss problems are fairly easy and inexpensive to fix. Others, on the other hand, can cost a small fortune. This is why it is so important that you have the right coverage. Call A-Protect Warranty today at 1-866-660-6444 to find out which package is best for you.