A Special - The Berkshire Eagle

A Special
Publication of the
June 27, 2013
RT. 7 & DEPOT ST., BENNINGTON, VT
802-442-9070
WHERE
PEOPLE
KNOW
TIRES
BEST
BARBER Gordon E. Fricke
& FRICKE Automotive Inc.
Riders must EMPHASIZE
SAFETY on the OPEN ROAD
Complete Auto Care Center
Sales • Service • Collision Center
Specializing in European
Automobile Sales and Service
Be seen and heard
Ever wonder why some motorcycles make so much noise? It's
to attract the attention of other motorists. Thanks to their small
profiles, motorcycles can easily go unnoticed by motorists. Failure of other motorists to see motorcycles on the road is a chief
contributor to collisions involving motorcycles.
(518) 686-4575
129 Church Street
One of the more comprehensive studies on motorcycle accidents occurred in 1981. Titled "Motorcycle Accident Cause Factors
and Identification of Countermeasures" and published by researcher Harry Hurt with the help of the University of Southern
California and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the study analyzed 3,600 motorcycle traffic accidents in a
specific region of California. The findings showed most motorcycle accidents involve a short trip associated with shopping,
errands, friends, entertainment, or recreation, and the accident is most likely to occur within close proximity to the rider's home.
Accident involvement is significantly reduced by the use of motorcycle headlamps, including during daylight hours, and the
wearing of highly visible clothing, including yellow, orange or bright red jackets.
(518) 686-7745
Hoosick Falls, Ny 1209
Visit us at www.loomissalesandservice.com
802-447-2226
133 Northside Drive • Bennington, VT
Serving You Since 1987
Exhaust, Inspections & Brakes!
Quality Cars & Trucks, Reasonable Prices
Make Your $$ Go Further!
Loomis Auto Exchange
Towing Service Available
• Friendly Quality Service
• Full Service Auto Repair
• Lockouts
• Jumpstarts
• Tire Repairs
802-447-8918
165 W. Main Street
Bennington, VT 05201
AUTO REPAIR/SALES
SHAFTSBURY
AUTO REPAIR, Inc.
Audi - SAAB - VW
Specializing in SAAB, Volkswagen, Audi Repair.
Selling quality pre-owned cars.
Tony & Danny Mazzola 802-442-3355
Walt’s Towing and Service
Family Owned & Operated
24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance
Walt’s Towing and Service
Center
220 Benmont Avenue
Phone: 802-442-6897
Owner: Walt Cross
Business Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
Although this research was conducted some time ago, it still underscores the importance of remaining visible on the road.
While leather and denim may be the traditional uniform of motorcycle riding, synthetic materials that have reflective fabrics
can improve visibility. Highly visible colors, such as orange and yellow, are good choices when on the road. Riders also can add
reflectivity to existing gear with reflective tape.
1498205
All Service CITGO
Motorcycle enthusiasts in locales with cold winters may anticipate
the warmer weather of spring and summer more than others, as it
means they can pull their bikes out of their garages and get back
on the open road. While riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating
experience, the U.S. Highway Safety Authority notes that fatal
crashes are much more likely to occur to motorcycle riders than
automobile drivers. As the number of drivers and riders on the
road continues to increase, it has never been more important for
riders to practice motorcycle safety.
Many motorcycle riders, particularly those on Harley Davidsons, swap out stock exhaust pipes for ones that emit a louder decibel
range. This helps other motorists notice them.
Use the right gear
When a rider is on the open road, he or she doesn't have the protection of a car frame to offer a buffer between the rider and
the pavement should an accident occur. That is why it is crucial to invest in quality gear that can offer a certain measure of
protection. A high-quality helmet that fits well is an important piece of safety equipment, as head and neck injuries can result
in paralysis or fatalities. Pair the helmet with goggles or glasses with safety lenses. Durable nonslip gloves will help riders
maintain a good grip on the handlebars, and boots can cover the ankles. Although it can be tempting to forgo long pants or
jackets when the weather warms, doing so can lead to painful abrasions and road burn should a fall occur. Invest in a leather
jacket and pants or a high-quality, durable and bright-colored material.
Additional safety precautions
According to Allstate(R) Insurance, 46 percent of motorcycle crashes occur at intersections. Knowing this information can help
riders make more informed choices on the road. Some other important safety precautions include:
• Exercise extreme caution at intersections and only go through when safe.
• Test the lights, brakes and turn signals before you make any trip.
• Make sure the fuel and oil levels are at the correct levels.
• Know your bike's limits.
• Follow the speed limit and the rules of the road, and do not weave in and out of traffic.
• Don't ride in blind spots, staying in spots where you are most visible to fellow motorists.
• Always use turn signals.
• Do not tailgate, as stopping distances for motorcycles, especially on slippery roads, can make stopping difficult.
• Never drink and ride.
Did you know?
Families with safety in mind gravitate toward vehicles that earn top safety awards. For those in the market for a new
sporty sedan, consider the all-new 2014 Mazda6, which earned a "Top Safety Pick" from the Insurance Institute for
Highway Safety. This is the first Mazda to earn this new, more demanding designation, which now includes the IIHS small
overlap test. This test replicates what happens when the front corner of a car collides with another vehicle or an object.
The Mazda6 scored "Acceptable" on the overlap test as well as "Good" in other areas of testing. In addition, Mazda6
Touring models feature a blind spot monitoring system, or BSM, and rear cross traffic alert as standard equipment
WEIGHING
the options of
OIL
CHANGE
The debate may continue as to whether a car still needs its oil
changed every 3,000 miles or if motorists can extend that figure
to more than 5,000 miles. In addition to how frequently oil needs
to be changed, drivers also must decide where to go for an oil
change.
B&B AUTO REPAIR
VT state auto & motorcycle inspections, struts/shocks/oil
change/tune-ups & brakes/exhaust, balance tires,
all major repairs & minor repairs.
Customers have different choices when it comes to oil changes.
Some don't mind getting a little messy and choose to change
their oil right at home. There are also lube stations that specialize
strictly in oil changes. Then there is the option of having the oil
changed at a dealership service station.
As with any decision, it helps to weigh the pros and cons of each
option before making a final decision. According to the Magnuson
Moss Warranty Act of 1975, routine service can be done
anywhere and will not void your warranty. Regular warranty work
only has to be done by the dealer. Unless a dealership can prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that damage was caused
by a vehicle owner or a third-party lube station, then the warranty will remain valid.
LOCATIONS
Gift certificates available
Reasonable Rates, Estimates. 33 yrs. Exp.
160 Benmont Ave., behind off the Wall Ron Brillion, Prop.
802-442-3301
Earl’s Service Station
Auto Sales & Service
Irving Gasoline
802-447-7090
Dealership
Fax 802-442-6166
There are certain reasons a person may want to go to a dealership to have an oil change. It is typical of dealer service
stations to train their mechanics in the specific design of the automobiles they are servicing. That means they'll have
first-hand knowledge and be familiar with the design of the engine and the characteristics of the make and model of
the car better than anyone else. This can give drivers peace of mind that they are getting the right parts and that the
service work is being done in accordance with their service warranty.
Some dealerships also offer service plans that discount the cost of oil changes if done at the dealer service station. This
service package might even be part of a finance deal, so the cost of the oil changes could already be paid for. The oil
changes may be done in conjunction with other service work, including tire rotation.
skipwilkins@hotmail.com
Skip Wilkins
251 North Street
Bennington, VT 05201
Third-party station
One of the main advantages to using a private lube-type company is that they are usually less expensive than services
provided by a dealership. Quick lube stations typically have access to manufacturers' data to ensure the correct type of
oil and filter are used. Larger companies may have an extensive training program that goes over the latest technology
and the models of cars. Another benefit to a lube station is that an appointment is not always necessary, which may
not be the case with a dealership. With a number of service bays and substantial staff on hand, there also could be a
shorter wait time, which is a boon to busy individuals.
Self-service
Doing an oil change at home is obviously the most cost-effective option. But it's the most labor-intensive as well. You
also will need to have specific tools for the job, as well as 5 to 6 quarts of motor oil on hand.
Jacking up the car to have access to the underside of the engine will be necessary so that you can reach the engine
pan plug to drain the old oil. Wrenches as well as buckets to drain the oil are other tools to keep on hand.
Used motor oil is not something that can simply be tossed in the trash or poured down a drain. It must be carefully
contained and recycled to avoid harming the environment.
Because of the work involved in an oil change at home, many people opt to have it done elsewhere. Remember, while
there are many places that are qualified, it's up to the driver to decide where to go.
Did you know?
According to the Federal Trade Commission, auto dealerships are not legally obligated to give preowned car buyers a
three-day right to cancel their purchase. This means a sale is final once a preowned vehicle buyer signs all of the
necessary documents. However, some dealerships do offer a return policy, though that offer will likely not be made
unless the buyer inquires about it. When a dealer does provide the privilege of returning the vehicle in 72 hours, the
policy may be referred to as a “money-back guarantee” or a “no questions asked return policy.” While many dealers
are trustworthy and willing to work with their prospective customers, the FTC recommends all buyers contact their
local consumer protection agency and state attorney general to determine if there are any unresolved complaints
on file with regard to a particular auto dealer. This can help buyers find a reputable dealer and give the buyers some
additional peace of mind, especially for those shopping for preowned vehicles that tend to carry more risk than a
brand new car.
Basic Clean to The Works
Call for your appointment
802-447-3622
216 W. Main St., Bennington, VT
PICKUP AND DELIVER Y AVAILABLE
47th Annual
Attention Car Owners and Vendors:
47th Annual
Bennington Car Show
is looking for Cars & Vendors
to join us on September 13-15!
sponsored by
Register or Find Out More Online at
www.Bennington.com
Your Business Can be
Advertised Here!
GREAT RATE! GREAT EXPOSURE!
www.benningtonbanner.com
www.manchesterjournal.com
* Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area, such as
civic, community, or customer service awards.
* Look for evidence of qualified technicians: trade school diplomas,
certificates of advanced course work, and certification by ASE.
* Look for the ASE sign or logo; it means the shop employs nationally
certified technicians.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was founded
in 1972 as a non-profit, independent organization
dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair
through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians.
ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder
insignia and carry credentials listing their exact areas of
certification. Their employers often display the blue and
white ASE sign. Visit www.ase.com for seasonal car care
advice and more.
Advice from the Pros:
Do Not Neglect Auto Service
Stay abreast of vehicle recall
information
The average age of a personal vehicle on the road today is more than
11 years, according to recent news reports. In tough economic times,
it’s natural to rein in spending. But the experts at the nonprofit National
Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) warn that putting off
routine auto maintenance or ignoring service intervals is false economy.
Small issues can morph into more expensive repairs. For example, failure
to replace worn brake pads or a faulty oxygen sensor -- both relatively
easy services for qualified auto technicians -- can result in expensive
brake rotor service or costly replacement of the vehicle’s catalytic
converter.
Frequently neglected items include oil changes, tire and brake service,
wheel alignment, air and fuel filters, and transmission service, according to
ASE-certified auto technicians.
Besides, a well-maintained vehicle gets better gasoline mileage, pollutes
less, is safer to operate, and lasts longer than one that’s neglected, notes
ASE.
To help consumers choose a repair shop that fits their needs, ASE offers
the following checklist:
* Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot
equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.
* Look for a courteous staff, with a service consultant willing to answer all
of your questions.
* Look for policies regarding estimated repair costs, diagnostic fees,
guarantees, and acceptable methods of payment.
* Ask if the repair facility specializes or if it usually handles your type of
repair work.
Driving a new vehicle off of the sales lot can be exciting. Brand-new
vehicles are supposed to be reliable and free from maintenance concerns.
However, sometimes manufacturers recall a vehicle, forcing drivers to visit
the auto body shop sooner than they had hoped.
According to the Auto Insurance Organization, 390 million vehicles
have been recalled since the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety
Act became law in 1966. Vehicles are recalled for a variety of reasons,
including poorly performing tires, faulty pieces of motor vehicle equipment
and unsafe child safety seats. From 2009 to 2010, Toyota alone recalled
8.5 million cars, the single largest recall in history.
It can be disconcerting to learn that your vehicle is being recalled. The
uneasiness of driving a potentially dangerous vehicle coupled with the
prospect of being without a car can be daunting.
Vehicle manufacturers must notify consumers that a recall is in place. But
sometimes a vehicle owner may not be aware that there is a recall. In the
event of large recalls, like the recent ones involving Toyota and Bridgestone
Tires, the story makes the national news. But there are other ways drivers
can stay current on recall information to ensure their personal safety.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an arm of the U.S.
Department of Transportation, is a source of information on vehicle recalls.
Their database dates back to 1966. The NHTSA provides information on
equipment recalls, entire vehicle recalls, child safety seat recalls, and tire
recalls. There also is information on school bus recalls.
Individuals can visit www.Recalls.gov and select the categories they
want to check. To check recalls on a particular motor vehicle, select
that category, enter the make and model as well as the year, and the
information about any recalls will appear.
Recall information can help save lives and prevent injuries. It is important
to be aware of recalls to ensure the vehicle you’re driving is as safe as
possible.
Things to do before buying
a used car.
Used cars can be quite a bargain. Whether purchased from a dealer, private
citizen or even a family member, a used or preowned vehicle can prove
just as reliable as a new vehicle but at a fraction of the cost.
While plenty of people have had good experiences purchasing a used
vehicle, consumers know that a used car is never a sure bet. However,
shoppers can employ the following tips to learn as much about a used
vehicle as possible before any money exchanges hands.
* Ask for a vehicle history report. A vehicle history report can show
potential buyers how many owners a vehicle has had as well as the
vehicle’s accident history. A vehicle with several previous owners and an
extensive accident history is one many consumers would prefer to avoid.
Consider it a red flag if a seller, be it a dealership or private seller, does not
want to share the vehicle history report. For a nominal fee, the Department
of Justice’s National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (www.nmvtis.
org) provides information about a vehicle’s title, its odometer data and
certain aspects of its accident history.
* Test drive the car under as many conditions as possible. When test
driving a used car, try to drive it in as many conditions as possible. Test the
vehicle on hills, in stop-and-go traffic and test how the vehicle responds to
accelerated speeds on the freeway.
* Have the vehicle inspected by your own mechanic. Once the vehicle
changes ownership, it will need to pass inspection before you can legally
drive it. However, many used cars are purchased as-is, meaning you won’t
be protected if the vehicle fails inspection after you have paid for the
car. As a result, it’s important to have the vehicle inspected by your own
mechanic before any money changes hands. The mechanic can point out
any issues with the vehicle and give his recommendation as to whether it’s
worth buying.
* Research the model of vehicle. Before buying a used vehicle, it also helps
to research the specific model. Some models have better reputations
for longevity than others. Such research won’t necessarily be easy, but
auto-related consumer magazines typically produce stories examining the
frequency of repair and maintenance costs with specific models.
Buying a used car requires a leap of faith, but a few tricks of the trade can
make consumers much more confident that they will find the right vehicle.