Two bodies govern vehicle safety ratings; one, the NHTSA, is operated by the federal government. The other is a non-profit organization known as the IIHS. Each body performs its own set of tests and has a proprietary rating system.
The NHTSA uses a simplified star system to rate vehicles on three different safety measurements, rollovers, frontal impacts and side impacts.
Before going back to school, it is extremely important that you perform all the maintenance details necessary to keep your car in great condition. The main reason is that you will be too busy with school work and preparing for your future to attend to your car while you're in school.
The first thing you should do is check your oil and brakes, and you should also make sure your heat and air conditioner are both working properly.
One of the most essential factors in keeping your car in top-form a is battery health. Your car's battery is instrumental in its functionality, as it provides power to all of its most vital components. That's why it’s important to ensure that the battery is running as intended, with no performance hiccups or lingering issues anywhere.
Should you choose a front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive system? Our team at MINI of Charleston is here to help answer that question so that you can make an informed decision.
One benefit that an RWD system offers is the handling it offers. The weight of the drivetrain is more evenly distributed to better balance the car.
If you are in the market for a new vehicle but aren't even sure where to begin, stop down to MINI of Charleston today! Our staff is incredibly knowledgeable regarding the vehicles that we have on our lot, and we'll be sure to find you something that is perfect for your lifestyle but will also fit into your budget.
It is important to have a vehicle that is practical and efficient, and if this is what you are looking for...
You probably keep the exterior of your vehicle in good shape with regular car washes and detailing. However, did you know that a clay bar can provide the exterior of your vehicle with a better finish? Here is why you may want to use a clay bar next time you detail your vehicle.
Your vehicle will accumulate debris that includes bug residue, tar, brake dust, and other fallout.
One of the biggest fears of any driver is the sudden overheated engine. You can protect yourself against this mishap if you learn to recognize the warning signs. The most likely cause of an overheated engine is a drop in coolant levels. Your owner's manual will detail the recommended levels for your particular vehicle. Failures in critical functions such as the water pump or radiator fan can also put your car at risk of overheating.
Being in a better position to identify issues with the tires on your vehicle can reduce the likelihood of a tire failure on the roads.
The reason the tires have a recommended pressure range is to maximize safety. If your car tires are underinflated, it is more likely they will blowout. If your vehicle doesn't have air pressure indicators, use a tire gauge each week to closely monitor the pressure in each tire.
When you get your oil changed at the service center, you may be asked whether you want regular or synthetic oil. It is important to understand the difference, so you can make an informed decision.
Even if you choose synthetic oil, there are different tiers of this oil to choose from, so having a clear understanding of the differences will help you to decide which oil is best for your car. Most synthetic oil is a blend of oil that comes out of the ground and chemicals that may enhance the performance of your vehicle.
