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LATCH evaluations are conducted by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. This independent organization evaluates cars for safety. In particular, the IIHS evaluates how they're affected by crashes. LATCH testing is slightly different, but still related to these tests.

LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. This refers to the hardware systems that are used in child restraints. LATCH hardware is effective in what it does. However, it's not always intuitive for parents to use.  

Our team at MINI of Charleston wants to help you be informed on the different features and systems in your vehicle. When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, understanding the parts is just part of the process. The alternator in your vehicle helps to power your different electrical systems and also recharges your battery. Without the alternator, your battery would quickly get drained. 

MINI of Charleston would hate to see you stranded, so we're going to talk about the signs that your ignition needs to be serviced. Your ignition system uses the voltage generated by your battery to send a spark to your spark plugs. A car can't start without a functioning ignition system. That's why it's important to know the warning signs of a failing ignition.

One of the first signs of a faulty ignition is a grinding noise. If you've ever accidentally turned your key in the ignition after your car was already running, you're…

Since the battery is an essential component of your vehicle, it's important to service it on a regular schedule. When you get your oil changed, have someone at MINI of Charleston test your battery to ensure that it has a positive charge. You can also have your alternator checked as well since these parts often work together.

There are a few things that you can do to maintain your battery so that it doesn't need to be replaced as often. Avoid leaving your lights on when they aren't needed.  

You may love bringing your pet in the car, but you might also be at your wit's end with all of the fur. Rather than making Sparky stay home, you can utilize strategies like protecting your seats with pet covers and putting your pet inside a crate to keep fur at bay. You'll also want to give your pet a nice brushing to contain the fur.

There are a few tactics that work in removing pet fur from upholstery, like using a lint roller or a pet fur vacuum attachment. If you are still noticing little tufts of…

You're driving on the highway when it begins to downpour. You turn on your windshield wipers only to realize that the rubber is so cracked that it won't clear away the water. What do you do? The answer is to get your wiper blades changed before you desperately need them. At MINI of Charleston, we want you to have all the knowledge that you can to stay safe, so here's some more information about windshield wipers.

Wiper blades begin to wear down over time because of oxidation, the sun, and the constant wearing across the surface of…

MINI of Charleston strives to keep customers as informed as possible. We believe teaching makes better drivers and shoppers. The following are a few reasons you shouldn't neglect washing your vehicle regularly.

That look you love to show off as you drive around town does not simply happen; it is something you have to work on. Cleaning your vehicle often ensures it remains shiny and attractive. You may not think dirt can do much, but these particles can be quite harsh. 

Winter and summer are the two extremes of the year that take the greatest toll on your car. Use the balmy days of spring to repair any winter damage and prepare your car for the high temperatures ahead.

Wash the road debris of winter from your car's exterior, paying close attention to the wheel wells and underside. Keep your wiper fluid and coolant levels high, run your air conditioner, and have your winter oil changed for a summer viscosity.  

Are you prepared for a car accident? Most people think they know what to do after an accident. However, here at MINI of Charleston, we want to make sure our customers are truly prepared. Use this short list in case you are in an accident.

If you are in a collision, the first priority is dealing with the injured. If anyone is injured, call 911 for assistance. Next, get the scene under control. Try to move vehicles to the emergency lane if possible. Put out flares and reflective triangles to warn oncoming traffic. Everyone in the accident should move off…

If you have a hard time seeing because of glare, we at MINI of Charleston have a few tips to keep you safer on the road. While you are contending with glare from the sun, the people in the other cars are probably suffering as well. Keeping your distance and using your headlights is a good way to be seen as soon as possible.

You can also make sure the glass in your car is kept clean on a regular basis. Store your papers on the seat or in the glovebox, so you don't have more of glare from…