February 20th, 2012
There are several dangerous situations that can occur when it comes to children and vehicles New Jersey. We are going to discuss a few of the more common hazards in a 6 part series. Even if you are aware of them, I hope that when we are through you will have been reminded of some preventative measures or perhaps, even learned something new.
The first hazard we are going to discuss is that of children becoming trapped in a vehicle’s trunk. Hide and Seek is a popular game among children and wouldn’t a trunk be the perfect hiding spot? Yes, a trunk would be a good hiding spot, but a very dangerous one that can lead to heatstroke, asphyxiation and even death.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the inside temperature of a vehicle can rise almost 20 degrees Fahrenheit within the first ten minutes. Even if the temperature outside is low, your vehicle can heat up very quickly. Younger children are also more heat sensitive and at a greater risk for heatstroke.
Due to children getting trapped in trunks, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as of September 1, 2001, all vehicle manufacturers were required to install a glow in the dark trunk release inside the vehicles trunk compartment. If your vehicle is older than 2001 stop by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall and we can help get a trunk release installed.
To prevent a child from ever becoming locked in your trunk, remember the following advice.
• Teach your child that the trunk is not something to play in and is only for storage.
• Keep an eye on your child any time they are in or around a vehicle.
• If you cannot find your child check your trunk immediately.
• When not in use, your vehicle should be locked even if stored in the garage. Any keys or remotes should be kept out of the reach of children.
• If you have rear-folding seats that lead to the trunk, be sure that they are closed and locked.
Protect your children New Jersey and be sure to keep them away from your vehicle’s trunk. Keep in mind the above information and keep your children safe. And don’t forget to stop by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall for all your Nissan, Kia and Suzuki needs.
February 15th, 2012
As I was reviewing a car seat rating for one of the makes and models we carry, I wondered, what is the proper way to install a car seat? It’s been a long time since I have had a car seat in the backseat of my car, so I decided to find out!
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 3 out of 4 child car seats are not installed correctly. To avoid this and ensure that your child is riding in your vehicle safely, choose a child seat based on your child’s age, height, and weight. When installing the seat always refer to the manufacturer’s installation instructions and manual. You should use the LATCH (Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children) or seat belt system to secure the seat in your vehicle. Keep your child in their seat for as long as you can, until they exceed the weight and height limits and children should remain in the back seat of your Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall car until the age of 13.
Child seats should be placed in the rear facing position through age 1. After 1 they should remain rear-facing until they outgrow the height and weight requirements, which should be sometime between ages 1-3. The safest location for your child’s car seat is in the center of the rear seat, whether they are rear-facing or forward facing.
If you still have questions or need help installing your child’s car seat, call your vehicle manufacturer, stop by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall, or make an appointment with your local inspection station where certified technicians can check your seat. Visit www.nhtsa.gov to find your nearest child car seat inspection station. You may also take a car seat installation workshop for even more security. Happy new or used car seat installing!
January 27th, 2012
Since we recently chatted about tax credits for plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles, it got me thinking; does everyone know all the alternative fuel types that vehicles can run on?! Well, there are more than you probably think. Here are the alternative fuel choices that some cars run on:
1. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (aka Propane) is derived from petroleum refining and mainly comprised of what we know as propane. We often only associate the use of propane with our BBQ grills and campers, but it can also be used to fuel our vehicles.
2. Compressed Natural Gas is what we are commonly used to powering our stoves and heating our homes. There is a large production of it here in the United States.
3. Liquefied Natural Gas comes from the same source as compresses natural gas. Liquefied natural gas however is liquefied as the name implies, but must be done at very low temperatures.
4. Methanol (aka M85) is generally made from natural gas. In the United States methanol is sold as a blend of 85% methanol and 15% unleaded premium gasoline.
5. Ethanol (aka E85) is derived by fermenting corn and is what you would generally refer to as grain alcohol. It too is a mixed fuel of 85% ethanol and 15% unleaded gasoline.
6. Biodiesel (aka B20) is a substitute for diesel made from soybean or canola oil. Recycled cooking oil and animal fat may also be used. The current market offering is made from 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel fuel.
7. Electricity is what we use everyday. Whether it is to turn on and off our lights, make our coffee or today, power our vehicles.
8. Hydrogen as a fuel source is similar to electricity, although, hydrogen does not occur in nature. It has to be formed from natural gas or water.
As the above list demonstrates, there are many alternative fuel sources in use today. Although many are still in the early stages of development and are not mainstream, there are many options to choose from. For more detailed information regarding any of the fuel sources discussed visit www.altfuels.org. And please stop by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall and share your experience and knowledge about alternative fuel with us New Jersey!
January 16th, 2012
As many of us have, I helped a friend of mine move this past weekend. For any one who owns a truck you’ve probably been asked to help someone with a move, or you have used your truck for hauling your own load. Well, as we were going back for a second load with some empty boxes in the bed of the truck, one happened to fly out onto the street. It occurred to me at this time, what is the correct way to load a truck?
Depending on the type of load you are hauling, you can use either cargo netting or a tarp to cover your load. Cargo netting should be used for light loads, such as cardboard boxes or lawn trash. Heavier loads should be secured down with a tarp. Both types of covers can be sized to fit your truck bed. You will need to attach both covers with hooks, anchors or bungee cords and fasten them securely to the sides. It is also important to tie your load down from at least two sides of the truck. You can make an X across your load, and if possible secure your straps or ropes to the load itself.
When loading the bed of the truck be sure to place the heaviest items at the back of the bed and the lightest towards the tailgate. This will stabilize the truck and prevent the front from being too light. This can cause you to have trouble steering. Be sure to travel the smoothest path to your destination by avoiding bumps, swerves and turns.
Most importantly, check the load capacity of your truck and do not exceed this. This is for your safety, as the trucks tires and suspension can only handle the stated amount.
So, the next time you need to help a friend move or haul a load in your truck, remember these steps. If you need any accessories for your truck, or want to check out our great selection of cars and trucks, stop on by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. Happy moving New Jersey!
January 12th, 2012
Gas mileage. It’s a topic everyone in New Jersey is concerned with when it comes to automobiles. We all want to get the most mileage out of our tank of gas, especially as gas prices have reached high levels. Well New Jersey, there are some ways that you can maximize your gas mileage when driving.
Drive Safely and Evenly
Stopping and starting are inevitable when driving. In order to get from point A to point B you have to accelerate and brake. This can be done however, without speeding, accelerating quickly or braking rapidly. The more evenly you drive the better gas mileage you will get out of your car.
Obey the Speed Limit
Not only is speeding against the law, it is better for your fuel efficiency. The higher the speed the more wind resistance the vehicle has to overcome. The optimal speed for fuel efficiency varies between vehicles, but between 45-65 miles per hour is where the greatest fuel efficiency is achieved.
Avoid Overloading Your Car
The more weight your car has to drive with the lower your gas mileage. Keeping heavy items out of your car and trunk will help keep your gas mileage at its optimum.
Utilize Your Cruise Control
Using your cruise control not only gives you as the driver a bit of a break, it also gives your fuel efficiency a break. This goes along with accelerating and braking; the more evenly you drive the better your gas mileage. So the next time your driving on the New Jersey highway, use your cruise control to maintain a constant speed.
Not only will these driving habits increase your gas mileage, they are the safer way to drive. Try practicing the next time your out on the road, and watch your dollar go a little farther at the pump. Stop by and see us at Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall to let us know some of your techniques for improving your gas mileage.
January 9th, 2012
With each New Year comes a new list of resolutions; things we would like to do differently or improve upon. Exercise and eating right are usually at the top of everyone’s list. And although these are important for your health, there are some routines you should follow to keep your car healthy as well. If keeping up with car maintenance is one of your New Year’s resolutions New Jersey, follow this schedule to keep your car running and looking like new.
Every month:
- Check fluid levels including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and windshield wiper fluid.
- Inspect headlights, brake lights and turn signals.
- Inspect tires and measure tire pressure.
Every 3 months:
- Change engine oil and filter every 3,000 miles (check your owner’s manual as some manufacturers recommend every 5,000 miles).
- Inspect belts for damage or wear.
- Inspect hoses for any damage and make sure they are secure.
- Check battery and cables for any corrosion.
Every 6 months:
- Inspect brakes for wear and tear and replace accordingly.
- Replace wiper blades if cracked, worn or streaking.
- Make sure spark plugs are not loose.
- Check spare tire and make sure it is still inflated.
Every 12 months:
- Replace spark plugs.
- Replace your cars brake pads.
- Have your radiator flushed.
- Inspect the exhaust system for any damage.
Also remember to always bring your car in for any manufacturers recalls. And any time you notice anything different or something that does not seem right, make sure to have it checked. By following the above schedule and staying on top of your car’s maintenance, you’ll have your car looking and feeling like new for the New Year. Bring your car by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall’s friendly service department for any of your car maintenance needs. We are always happy to help. Happy New Year New Jersey!
January 6th, 2012
We all drive through New Jersey everyday; whether it’s back and forth from work and home, driving kids around to all their activities or taking a family road trip. We hop in our car and go, not thinking about or worrying if we end up in an accident. It’s not something any of use likes to think about, but it is a risk we take every time we sit in that drivers seat. I hope that no one is ever involved in a car accident but, if it unfortunately happens, try to remain calm and remember to follow these tips.
Stop Your Vehicle
After an accident occurs when you are in your New Jersey vehicle, stop your vehicle and assess the situation. In the case of a minor accident with no injuries, try to move the cars out of the way of traffic and off to the side, until further assistance arrives. If the cars are too damaged to move, put on your hazard lights to warn oncoming traffic. In the case of injury call for an ambulance and let the injured person remain where they are unless they are in danger of getting hit or further injured.
Get Help
Notify the police to report your accident and call paramedics if there are injuries.
Exchange Information
Each driver needs to provide their name, driver’s license number, license plate number, phone number and insurance information.
Report the Accident
File a report with the New Jersey state police department and with your insurance company. If there is a police officer present and they are filing a report, be sure and get a copy for your insurance company and insurance report. This will help your insurance company with its claims process and hopefully, help make the whole process a little faster.
If an accident happens to you, try to remember the tips above to help the process go a bit more smoothly. We wish you safe driving from your New Jersey car dealer, Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. Stop by anytime to view our newest Nissans, Suzukis and Kias.
January 6th, 2012
As a kid growing up, I remember riding in my dad’s red & white1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. It was a beautiful car: two-door, cherry red body, white top with white leather interior. It was such a great car to take a drive in, cruising down the road with the windows down, and no responsibility in sight. If you have memories like those, as I do, how would you like to revisit them this coming February, with a trip to the Atlantic City Classic Car Show and Auction? Once we rang in the New Year, it’s back to our daily grind. Why don’t you breath some new life into your New Jersey routine with a blast to the past!
Every New Jersey auto enthusiast will enjoy a visit out to the Atlantic City Classic Car Show and Auction. Come see the history of auto making and the cars and models that shaped America. From Cadillac’s to Chevrolet’s, all the classics will be there. Aside from cars, you will be able to shop and browse for fenders, bumpers and special car parts among other items. Also this year, the car show will be auctioning celebrity memorabilia in addition to their large selection of classics.
The Atlantic City Classic Car Show and Auction will be held at the Atlantic City Convention Center February 24-26, 2012. Show hours are 8:30am – 9:00pm Friday and Saturday, and 9:00am – 5:00pm on Sunday. Please see show details for auto and memorabilia auction hours and inventory.
After visiting the car show all of us here at Paul Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall would love for you to share all the fun you had, and relive your memories once again with us. And when your looking to buy your next classic car of the future, and build some more great memories, come and see us at Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall.
January 6th, 2012
Old man winter is definitely upon us! As the weather temperature drops for us outside New Jersey, it’s time to take out the winter coats, gloves and hats. Just as the cold weather is shocking to our system and requires us to keep warm, the same is true of your favorite Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall car’s battery.
The optimum temperature for your car’s battery is 80° F; at this temperature your battery is operating at 100 percent capacity. By the time it reaches 0° F your battery is only operating at about 50 percent capacity. The winter weather certainly affects your batteries power, and you wouldn’t want to end up with a dead battery in the middle of winter. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to prevent this.
The best prevention for keeping your car battery operating as effectively as it can during the winter months is your garage. Keeping your car out of the elements is always the most effective way of stopping damage to your car. If however, this is not a possibility, you can invest in a battery heater to take you and your New Jersey car battery through the winter months.
The purpose of a battery heater is as it sounds: to keep your car’s battery warm and cozy throughout the long winter nights. A battery heater can keep your car operating better during the winter, prolong the life of your car battery and make it easier to start your engine come morning. There are several choices available when it comes to purchasing one, so check them out and see which one suits you and your automobile best.
Remember also, to have your battery checked by a professional to prevent and correct any wear and tear that may occur. Stop by and see your friendly parts and service departments at Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. We can check out your battery and assist you with anything you may need. We will be happy to help you and your battery stay warm this winter!
December 26th, 2011
So it seems as though the winter weather is still alluding us, but the mornings are still freezing cold. Mix that with rain and you will have slippery road conditions that are always precarious to drive on. One thing that can help you out though is changing your tires out for winter tires. Yes, there is the the 'con' of the cost of having to buy a new set of tires, but the question is, are they worth it. Here are some reasons why you should consider some winter tires which can be bought at your local New Jersey car dealer, Sansone Jr's 66 Automall.
First, winter tires are specifically designed to excel in cold weather such as snow, slush and ice. This is because the tread designs and tread compounds are engineered to master these frigid conditions. Whereas summer tires are designed for just the opposite conditions.
If you have ABS, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive or even four-wheel drive, having winter tires on your wheels will only enhance and improve your safety on the road New Jersey. Although there have been advancements in electronic driver aids, such as ABS and traction control, they don't quite provide the traction that an actual winter can. With winter tires you get more control from a better gripping tire.
Some folks think that just replacing two of their tires with winter tires help, but actually it is not recommended. It's best for you to have a complete set of winter tires. Only having winter tires on your drive tires can prove to be more dangerous during winter driving conditions as the non-winter tires won't be able to handle what your winter tires can.
Though all-season tires are good, they are not just good enough. All-season tires are made for multiple conditions and therefore don't really excel in one condition. I think that the winter driving conditions are unpredictable enough to warrant a full set of winter tires.
Your New Jersey car dealer wants to know why you think winter tires are worth the money! Post your comments below and be sure to come tell us at Sansone Jr's 66 Automall today!
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