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Standard Car Parts Bite the Dust

Chuck Mai — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 18:04:50 +0000

By Chuck Mai, AAA

Quite a few longtime (and beloved) car parts are slowly fading away or gone altogether.

** Ash trays and cigarette lighters (although the power ports remain).

** Crank windows – even the most basic car today has power windows.

** Cassette players. Are you kidding? Some manufacturers are doing away with CD players and there is even talk of eliminating the AM band on radios.

** Whitewall tires. However, I believe they’ll come back at some point. Probably the same time spats make a return.

** Sealed-beam headlights, which have been replaced by xenon and halogen bulbs.

** Glass fuses. These days, they’ve been replaced by spade fuses of different types and styles.

** Vinyl tops and vinyl seats. Now, everything is either cloth or leather.

** Drum brakes. Although still around, many cars have four-wheel disc brakes, which were once only found on sports cars.

** Front bench seat. The middle passenger has been replaced by cup holders and storage boxes.

** External door locks on both front doors.

What’s next to go? My prediction is windshield wipers. They’ll be replaced by high-pressure air nozzles that sweep across the windshield, blowing off rain and drizzle. I just made that up. But then again, who ever thought we’d never see hubcaps again?

The Cost of Convenience: Voice-Activated Features Pose Biggest Risk to Drivers

Chuck Mai — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:29:52 +0000

New advanced hands-free technologies make it easier for motorists to text, talk on the phone, and use social media as they drive, but there’s a cost to this convenience: higher risk.

Today, AAA is releasing the most in-depth analysis to date of mental distractions behind the wheel. The study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that voice-activated in-car technologies can be even more dangerous than hands-free or handheld devices.

“Mental distractions are being built into cars,” said Chuck Mai, spokesman for AAA Oklahoma. “As a leader in driver safety, AAA believes this is creating a looming public safety crisis.”

In the study, drivers engaged in six common tasks, from talking on the phone to responding to voice-activated emails. Their brainwaves, eye movement, reaction time and other metrics were evaluated by researchers from the University of Utah.

Experts assessed what happens to drivers’ mental workload when they multi-task. This information was used to rate levels of mental distraction. Similar to the Saffir-Simpson scale used for hurricanes, three categories were created to measure level of mental distraction:

· Category 1 includes tasks with minimal risk, such as listening to the radio.
· Category 2 includes tasks with moderate risk. This includes talking on a cell-phone, both handheld and hands-free.

· Category 3 includes tasks with extensive risk. This includes listening and responding to in-vehicle, voice-activated email features.

“These findings reinforce AAA’s position that hands-free is not risk-free,” said Mai. “Mental distractions create tunnel vision where motorists may not see hazards right in front of them.”

As a safety advocate, AAA will use the results of this study to promote dialogue about distracted driving with policymakers. This year, AAA Oklahoma supported several bills dealing with distracted driving, primarily text while driving, at the state capitol. However, none of the bills were successful. AAA has pledged to continue legislative efforts in 2014.

AAA is using the findings of this Foundation study to encourage the automotive and electronics industries to not allow emerging in-car technologies to compromise public safety.

The study involved 102 drivers ranging in age from 18 to 36. To measure effects in controlled and real world settings, drivers were studied on both simulators and instrumented vehicles. Researchers used a generic system that captured the essential elements of hands-free technologies available on the market today.

A not-for-profit organization, AAA Oklahoma serves its 367,000 members across Oklahoma with emergency help on the road, auto travel assistance and a wide range of personal insurance, travel, financial and automotive services through branch offices, a regional operations center and the Internet at AAA.com.

The Older and Wiser Driver

Chuck Mai — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 17:17:58 +0000

By Chuck Mai, AAA
Helping your parents determine whether they should still be driving can be stressful — especially for Mom and Dad. No one wants to lose a freedom they’ve had for nearly as long as they can remember. On the other hand, they don’t want to hurt someone, or themselves, while behind the wheel of a car.
While seniors often get a bad rap for their driving abilities, the fact is they are the safest drivers on the road.
That’s because of one thing – experience. “Teens, for instance, are at much greater risk on the road because of their lack of experience. People get upset with older drivers because they are driving slow and taking their time. Yeah, they are being pretty safe.
Additionally, seniors tend to drive familiar routes, and not after dark.
Still, mature drivers need to do a self-check of their skills.
If you are an older driver, and every time you go out, people are honking and mad at you — that’s a signal that maybe you shouldn’t be on the road.
AAA maintains that age should never be used as the sole indicator of driving ability, though it’s typical for some skills that are necessary for safe driving, such as vision, reflexes, flexibility and hearing, to begin to deteriorate with age.
If there’s concern over whether an elderly person should continue driving, here’s an online source that might help. Go to http://seniordriving.aaa.com to take a 15-question self-evaluation with facts and suggestions. There is a wealth of tools and resources at this website.
Those who have suffered some kind of medical condition, or those stopped by the police for a driving infraction, may be told that they need to have their driving evaluated. Generally they are the most cooperative because the request is not coming from one of their children – the doctor or police officer is a neutral, third party.
You can’t force somebody to do (the evaluation) unless you have legal guardianship,
Sometimes Mom and Dad need to relinquish their keys, but are worried about what happens if they do. Some think it means an end to their activities, that they will be reduced to occasional visits from friends, family and health care aides, and that life as they know it is about to end.
A growing number of families will have to deal with the issue as baby boomers age. And boomers as a whole might cop an unexpected attitude when the subject is broached. Today’s mature drivers may be a little old lady in a convertible or a graying guy on a Harley.
Mature drivers today have changing attitudes and different needs than those who came of age on our highways years ago
To address the older folks’ concerns that they’ll be doomed to a boring sedentary lifestyle, plan how your loved one will get around after his or her license is retired. In addition to family and friends committing to providing transportation, explore public services.
In the end, if Mom and Dad’s budget allows, they may need to move to a retirement community where activities are on the grounds and a shuttle taxis them to dinner, shopping — and for the spunky boomers, maybe the tattoo parlor.

Tornado Safety Tips

Chuck Mai — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 20:17:01 +0000

By Chuck Mai, AAA

Mother Nature’s fury has been paying quite a bit of attention to the Sooner state lately. Our hearts and prayers go out to all so severely impacted by the recent storms. In the aftermath of the May 31 tornadoes, there has been some discussion about the best things to do when a twister is imminent. AAA’s advice has not changed over the years:

Seek Shelter
Do not try to outrun a tornado. Instead, stay calm and seek shelter.
• At home or work, seek shelter in the central part of the building, away from windows. Basements or storm shelters are the best havens. If this is not an option, take cover in the bathroom, closet, interior hallway or under a heavy piece of furniture or mattress.
• If you are in your car, abandon your vehicle and seek shelter in the nearest building. Never try to outrun a tornado. Your vehicle will offer no protection from a twister. Plus, it is impossible to know which direction a tornado may decide to go.
• If you are caught in the open, with no buildings available to you, find a ditch, ravine or low-lying area and lie flat. Stay away from roadway overpasses.
• People living in mobile homes should leave them and seek shelter elsewhere.

Protect your Property
Prepare before the storm strikes.
• If a tornado watch has been issued, move cars inside a garage or carport to avoid damage from hail that often accompanies tornadoes. Keep car keys and house keys with you.
• If time permits, move lawn furniture and yard equipment inside. They could be damaged or act as dangerous projectiles causing serious injury or damage.
• Shut off the water supply to your washing machine when not in use.
• Make an inventory of possessions and store the list off-premises. If belongings are damaged, this list will help facilitate the claim-filing process.

While tornadoes are deadly, a severe storm can be just as dangerous due to lightning, heavy rain and the possibility of flooding.

AAA PetBook Guide Makes Traveling with Your Pet 14,000 Times Easier

Chuck Mai — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 17:04:47 +0000

AAA has released the 2013 version of its popular Traveling with Your Pet: The AAA PetBook. Now in its 15^th edition, the guide features more than 14,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and campgrounds that welcome travelers and their four-legged friends. The annually-updated guidebook provides detailed information for finding and selecting the right place to stay, hotel pet policies, pet travel advice and emergency vet clinics.

“Whether you’re a seasoned pet traveler or a first-timer, this book is a tremendous resource for information not available anywhere else,” said Chuck Mai, spokesman for AAA Oklahoma.

The AAA PetBook, available in print and digital versions, has seen a 40 percent increase in listings for pet-friendly AAA Approved hotels and campgrounds since its first edition in 1999. “The industry has changed with the evolving needs of travelers,” said Mai. “Pets are now a big part of family planning for many of us. The growing number of travel options, like those listed in the AAA PetBook, makes it easier to plan a fun trip that includes furry family members.”

The release of the new edition, full of scenic, smile-provoking photos of pets enjoying safe travel, also marks the opening of the next annual AAA PetBook Photo Contest sponsored by Best Western. Travelers who snap a candid photo of their pet during this year’s vacation can enter through Nov. 30, 2013. Each year, winners are selected to appear on covers of the next edition and receive additional prizes. See inside The AAA PetBook for details, or access official contest rules, an entry form and the contest photo gallery at AAA.com/PetBook.

Traveling with Your Pet: The AAA PetBook, 15^th edition,is available at selected AAA Oklahoma offices for $12.95 (members) and $18.95 (nonmembers). The book can also be purchased at most large bookstores and through online booksellers.

A not-for-profit organization, AAA Oklahoma serves its 365,000 members across Oklahoma with emergency help on the road, auto travel assistance and a wide range of personal insurance, travel, financial and automotive services through branch offices, a regional operations center and the Internet at AAA.com.

AAA to Rescue more than Eight Million Motorists during the Summer Driving Season ….including more than 65,000 in Oklahoma

Chuck Mai — Wed, 29 May 2013 16:07:50 +0000

More than 31 million Americans kicked off the summer travel season with a road trip Memorial Day weekend, but plans were dampened for approximately a quarter of a million motorists that AAA needed to rescue on the roadside. AAA expects between the major summer holidays of Memorial Day and Labor Day, it’ll aid more than eight million motorists this summer. Auto maintenance is key to avoiding travel breakdowns.

In Oklahoma, AAA estimates it will come to the rescue of more than 65,000 motorists during the summer driving season. The increased demand for AAA roadside assistance will come as temperatures start to climb above the 90-degree mark, causing car batteries, hoses, belts and other components to fail.

“The best way to prevent an untimely breakdown and ruined vacation is to keep your vehicle properly maintained,” said Chuck Mai, spokesman for AAA Oklahoma. “Keeping up with routine maintenance, like oil changes and tire pressures, can save money and keep you from being stranded when the summer heat gets here. In addition, checking your car battery ahead of the summer heat can prevent a breakdown, as extended heat puts a greater strain on car batteries than winter’s cold.”

AAA recommends that motorists perform the following maintenance tasks before hitting the road. An acronym of S.A.F.E.T.R.I.P. is used to help motorists remember these essential tasks.

Service your Battery

AAA will assist nearly 1.6 million motorists with dead batteries during the summer driving season—replacing more than 500,000 batteries at the roadside. Summer heat breaks down car batteries internally and accelerates the rate of corrosion on the terminals. Both conditions can lead to insufficient electrical power being available, leaving motorists stranded without warning. Depending on local climate and vehicle usage patterns, most car batteries have a three-to five-year service life. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested by a professional technician to help avoid unexpected trouble.

Air Conditioning Check
A vehicle without air conditioning can be a hot and uncomfortable environment for travelers during the summer months. Automotive air conditioning systems do not require routine maintenance, but a system that is operating marginally is more likely to fail in hot weather. If you have noticed a decrease in cooling capability, have your air conditioning system examined by a qualified technician before setting out on a trip.

Fluids for Windshield Washer/Wipers

Rain, insects, grime and other debris on a windshield will compromise the driver’s vision and safety. The life of a rubber wiper insert is typically six to 12 months depending on its exposure to heat, dirt, sunlight and rain. If your wipers leave streaks or cannot clear the windshield in one swipe, they should be replaced. Also, check the windshield washer fluid level and top it off with a solution formulated to aid in the removal of insects and other debris. Be sure to test the washer spray nozzles for proper operation and aim before leaving home.

Emergency Roadside Kit

While preventive measures go a long way toward minimizing breakdowns, unexpected vehicle problems can still occur. AAA encourages motorists to update their emergency roadside kit every season. The kit should include a mobile phone and car charger; a flashlight with extra batteries; a first-aid kit; drinking water; extra snacks/food for your travelers and any pets; simple tools, like pliers and screw drivers; paper towels; battery booster cables; and emergency flares or reflectors.

Tire Inflation and Condition

“Roughly one million drivers will call AAA for help with a flat tire during the summer travel season, and many of those problems could be avoided with a quick tire inspection,” said Mai. “Begin every tire inspection with a pressure check when the tires are cold and the car has not been driven recently.” Use a quality gauge to make sure all five tires are inflated to the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer—this can be found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker usually attached to the driver’s door jamb, or sometimes inside the gas cap door or glove compartment. Properly inflated tires increase safety and fuel economy, which will reduce fuel costs during a trip. Finally, inspect the tread depth and overall condition of the tires. Worn tires in need of replacement are much more likely to suffer punctures and other problems.

Regular Maintenance

This summer, AAA will remedy more than half of motorists’ car problems at the roadside and get them back on the go. However, an estimated 3.5 million drivers will suffer more significant troubles and need towing to a place of repair. If it’s almost time for scheduled maintenance, have your car serviced before a trip. If it has been some time since the vehicle last saw the inside of a repair shop, consider having it thoroughly inspected by a qualified technician who can identify potential problems before they put a damper on any travel plans.

Inspect under the Hood: Belts, Hoses and Fluids

Replace accessory drive belts that are cracked, glazed or frayed, as well as coolant hoses that are visibly worn, brittle, bulging or excessively soft. Check for leaks around hose clamps and at the radiator and water pump. Check the engine coolant level, along with that of other important under hood fluids such as the engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid and power steering fluid. A low fluid level could indicate a leak or other problem that should be checked out by a professional technician.

Prepare and Plan Ahead
Part of the fun of taking a road trip is planning it. Chart out driving routes and, when possible, reserve your accommodations in advance. Be prepared for busy roads during the popular travel times and, if possible, consider leaving earlier or later to avoid traffic. For increased safety, assign a passenger as the designated texter/caller to avoid distracted driving. AAA recommends drivers allow plenty of time to reach their destinations, and stop for 20 minutes in a safe location every 100 miles or two hours to stretch, relax and avoid drowsy or fatigued driving.

Oklahomans Set to “Drive” into Summer, Says AAA

Chuck Mai — Wed, 22 May 2013 17:04:55 +0000

AAA highlights 4 Memorial Day travel trends.

AAA Oklahoma, May 22, 2013. The first three-day weekend of the summer has nearly arrived and according to AAA, Oklahomans will be “driving” their way into summer. The Memorial Day holiday commemorates those who have died in service to our country, while also serving as the unofficial kickoff of the summer season.

According to AAA Oklahoma’s Memorial Day travel forecast, 611,500 Oklahomans are expected to travel over Memorial Day, representing an increase of 0.9 percent from last year. Nationwide, 34.8 million Americans are predicted to travel, a decrease of 0.9 percent from 2012.

“Memorial Day travel is a mixed bag this year,” said Chuck Mai, spokesman for AAA Travel, the largest leisure travel agency in North America. “A decline in air travel has pulled overall travel down below year-ago levels, but auto travel remains strong. This is consistent with patterns seen by AAA Travel agents and counselors.”

Four trends from AAA’s 2013 Memorial Day forecast for Oklahomans include:

Road trips rule
According to a AAA survey, 521,000 Oklahomans – 85 percent of holiday travelers – plan to drive to their destination, representing an increase of 2.2 percent from last year. However, this survey was conducted April 8 to April 12 when gasoline prices were substantially lower than they are today. Although AAA believes gas prices in Oklahoma have now peaked and will begin to decline, the statewide average for self-serve regular today is $3.909 per gallon, 63 cents more than the price recorded as recently as April 29.
Air travel takes a dip
80,500 Oklahomans plan to fly to their Memorial Day destination, a decrease of 4.3 percent from last year.AAA attributes this decline to travelers who are deterred by airfare prices. For many travelers’ budgets, road trips make more sense this summer, according to AAA travel experts.
Trip distance highlights popular drive destinations
The average roundtrip distance traveled by Oklahomans is expected to be a little less than 830 miles. However, 70 percent of Oklahomans will travel 700 miles or fewer, which encompasses trips to many popular drivable summer destinations including state parks and lakes, Branson, Eureka Springs and Dallas.
Food, beverages & accommodations consumes 39% of holiday budget
Median spending this Memorial Day is $567. Of this, 20 percent will go for food and beverages while 19 percent will go for accommodations. The remaining expenditures will be divided among entertainment and recreation (18 percent), shopping (16 percent), fuel (12 percent), other transportation (10 percent) and miscellaneous expenses (5 percent).

In addition, AAA reports car rental rates are the highest they’ve been in four years, with a weekend daily rate average of $43, which is 19 percent above last year.

AAA offers a variety of mobile travel resources including AAA Mobile, a free app for Smartphone users. The app uses GPS navigation to help travelers map a route, locate nearby discounts, summon roadside assistance, and find current gas prices and more. Travelers can learn more about this resource at AAA.com/mobile.

Research for Memorial Day travel projections are derived from IHS Global Insight, which conducts special research for AAA. The Memorial Day holiday travel period is defined as trips that include travel of 50 miles or more during the five-day period from Thursday, May 23 to Monday, May 27. AAA has been reporting on holiday travel trends for more than two decades.

AAA is a full-service travel agency. For more information, visit AAA.com/travel.

AAA to offer free “Tipsy Tows” over long Memorial Day weekend

Chuck Mai — Wed, 22 May 2013 17:03:08 +0000

AAA Oklahoma will be offering Tipsy Tow over the extended Memorial Day holiday period. The service is free and open to the public.

A tow for your car and a ride home for you are available from AAA Oklahoma if you think you’ve had too much to drink at a Memorial Day party and feel unsafe behind the wheel.

AAA Oklahoma’s Tipsy Tow community service program runs from 6 p.m. on Friday, May 24 until 4 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28 in metro Tulsa and Oklahoma City, as well as in Lawton, Enid, Ardmore, Bartlesville, Tahlequah, Shawnee and Muskogee.

“In some situations, even one drink can be enough to impair your driving abilities,” said Chuck Mai, spokesman for AAA Oklahoma. “And the more you have to drink, the greater the chances for tragedy behind the wheel. We hope Tipsy Tow gets a lot of calls over the holiday. This way, everyone, including the vehicle, gets home safely.”

To call for Tipsy Tow, dial (800) AAA-HELP – 800-222-4357 – and ask for Tipsy Tow. AAA will provide a free tow and a free ride for the vehicle and up to two people, no questions asked, within a 15-mile radius from point of pickup.

However, Tipsy Tow will take you to only one place: home.

The service is offered at no charge to AAA members and non-members alike.

Air Conditioning’s Impact on your Car’s Fuel Economy

Chuck Mai — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:04:34 +0000

By Chuck Mai, AAA

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) undertook testing to answer a common motorist question: Is it more fuel efficient to drive with the windows up and the air-conditioning on or with the windows down and the AC off?

The answer is … well, it depends. Variable factors include vehicle speed, ambient temperature, and AC duty cycle (what setting is used). In general:

• The power requirement of AC is relatively constant representing roughly a six to seven percent reduction in fuel economy at 60 mph.

• Driving with the windows down results in more aerodynamic drag than with the windows up. Drag increases exponentially with speed -– it takes approximately five times the power to propel a vehicle at 80 mph as it does as 40 mph.

This means that every vehicle design has a “crossover” speed at which using AC with the windows up is more efficient than driving with the windows down and AC off.

Test Conditions

To answer the question, ORNL performed on-road and dynamometer testing of a 2009 Ford Explorer and Toyota Corolla. The ambient lab temperature was set to 95 degrees, the air conditioning set to medium (50 percent duty cycle), and the vehicles were tested between speeds of 40 mph and 80 mph.

Findings

In general, there is no fuel economy penalty from using the AC at highway speeds compared with having the windows rolled down and the AC off.

At a medium AC setting, the crossover point for each vehicle was nominally around 60 mph. If the AC is set to run more than the tested 50 percent duty cycle, the crossover speed would also be higher.

Overall, fuel consumption at highway speeds with medium AC is about six to seven percent more than driving with the windows up and AC off. However, in hot weather that certainly is not a comfortable alternative.

Kids, Pets and Hot Cars Left Alone = A Deadly Combination

Chuck Mai — Tue, 14 May 2013 14:35:45 +0000

The consequences of leaving kids or pets in hot cars, even for a minute, can be deadly. Each year, AAA along with Safe Kids works to prevent children and pets being left in hot cars by educating the public of the dangers.

According to data collected by Dr. Jan Null of San Francisco State University, 32 children died last year after being left in a car. 52 percent of those who died were left not on purpose, but by mistake.

“Many times we think we can run into a store and be out in 10 minutes with no problem, but in 10 minutes in the heat of the summer, your car’s interior temperature can rise 19 degrees above that of the outside air,” said Danial Karnes, AAA Oklahoma spokesman.

AAA urges parents and caregivers to put these simple tips to use to make sure no child is left in a vehicle this summer.

Never leave a child unattended in a car, even for a minute, even if the windows are tinted or down. The same recommendation applies to pets and the elderly.
Don’t allow children to play in an unlocked, parked vehicle and never leave car keys where children have access to them.
Keep doors locked and windows closed at all times, even when the vehicle is in the garage or on a driveway.
Make sure all children leave the vehicle when you reach your destination. Be certain no one is inadvertently left behind.
When you first place a child in a car seat in the back seat of the car, also open the glove compartment door, flip down the passenger side visor or put a purse in the back seat. These actions can serve as visual reminders that a child is in the back seat. Even better, place your cell phone on the back seat, too.
If you see a child alone in a locked, parked car, immediately call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.

A not-for-profit organization, AAA Oklahoma serves its 365,000 members across Oklahoma with emergency help on the road, auto travel assistance and a wide range of personal insurance, travel, financial and automotive services through its 45 retail branches, regional operations center and the Internet at www.AAA.com.