Summertime Driving 2022

May 31, 2022

Summertime Driving 2022

It is perhaps a reality-based joke that summer begins on July 5th in the Northwest, but did you know that your driving habits should be adjusted according to the seasonal conditions? The skilled and compassionate staff at Rolf’s Import Auto Service want to offer some tips to help you stay safe throughout this summer of fun.

For starters, be well rested before you start and make sure to take frequent breaks along the way if you find yourself getting tired or fatigued from the heat or the sunshine. If you find yourself on the road with folks heading out on camping trips, allow more room than usual when passing an RV or trailer. Those trailers are certainly larger than cars, and oftentimes they aren’t driven as much as regular commuter vehicles, so their operators may be unaware of their own size or space on the interstate.

Keep all your lights clean. That sounds like it goes without saying, but a break in the rainy season actually contributes to a dusty buildup on the surface of your vehicle. Give the car a wash regularly, and make sure to check your lights before heading out on the road.

Be prepared for rain. Just because the roads are dry now doesn’t necessarily mean they’re going to stay that way. Summertime rain can roll in pretty quickly, and if you are adventuring further out in the country, you might encounter some downpours or weather that is outside of what you usually expect. Be prepared to have to adjust as needed.

Even on overcast days, sunshine can cause problems for drivers. The best ways to deal with this issue are:

Follow speed limits. The maximum is not a suggestion, but a hard limit imposed for everyone’s safety—including yours.

Stay at least 4 or 5 seconds away from other cars. The closer you are to the car in front of you, the less time you have to react if they have to suddenly brake for any reason.

Keep your windshield in good condition. That means keeping it clean and repairing rock chips as soon as you notice them. Often, those chip repairs are covered by your insurance company. Check your policy to make sure.

Use sunglasses or a sun visor. Keep an extra pair of sunglasses in the car for those days where the marine layer burns off, and we are left with a bright, blinding day.

Finally, don’t be afraid to pull over if the sun is shining too brightly in your eyes for you to drive safely.

Summertime goes by quickly. Too quickly, sometimes. Staying safe throughout all of the seasons means there will be more fun to have in the future. As always, your expert technicians at Rolf’s Import Auto Service are ready and willing to make sure your vehicle is in tiptop shape for all of your adventures, regardless of where the road will take you!

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Wheel Balancing Machine | Rolf’s Import Auto Service in WA

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Signs Your Wheels Need Balancing A smooth and comfortable ride is absolutely essential for any vehicle owner who wants to enjoy their time on the road. One critical factor that plays a significant role in achieving this level of comfort is proper wheel balancing. But how can you, as a responsible vehicle owner, determine when it's time to get your wheels balanced? In order to shed some light on this important aspect of vehicle maintenance, let's delve deeper into the signs and timing for wheel balancing to ensure that you have a safe and pleasant driving experience Signs Your Wheels Need Balancing If you feel a persistent vibration through the steering wheel, seat, or floorboard while driving, it's a strong indication that your wheels may be out of balance. Inspect your tires regularly. Uneven tire wear, such as excessive wear on one side, can be a sign of an imbalance issue. Additionally, if you notice that your vehicle tends to pull to one side or you have difficulty maintaining a straight path, it may be due to wheel imbalance. When to Get Wheel Balancing Whenever you install new tires, it's advisable to have them balanced to ensure even weight distribution. During tire rotation , which should typically be done every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, it's an excellent opportunity to check and rebalance the wheels if necessary. If you've had suspension or steering components replaced or repaired, it's also a good practice to have your wheels balanced afterward to ensure optimal performance. If you experience any of the signs mentioned earlier, don't delay in getting your wheels balanced. Ignoring these issues can lead to further tire damage and affect your vehicle's handling. Wheel balancing is crucial for a smooth and safe driving experience. Pay attention to signs like vibration, uneven tire wear, or steering problems, as they may indicate a need for balancing. To ensure your vehicle's wheels are properly balanced, consider having it done when installing new tires, during tire rotation, or after suspension work. Regular wheel balancing not only improves your driving comfort but also extends the life of your tires, saving you money in the long run. If you suspect your wheels need balancing, consult with Rolf’s Import Auto Service in WA for a professional assessment and service.