SUMMER CAR CARE GUIDE ’11 SPEND LESS ON FUEL! 6 M O N E Y S AV I N G T I P S CUSTOMIZE YOUR RIDE And Be The Talk Of The Town. SMALL REPAIRS CAN SAVE YOU MONEY Tinting Your Windows? Know The Law SUMMER CaR CaRE | 1 SUMMER CAR CARE How to spend less on fuel when gas prices rise . . . . . . . . Spend Less On Fuel King of Green Simple Fixes 4 8 CONTENTS Small Repairs As drivers hold on to cars longer, small repairs can save you money . . . 6 Consumers are more aware of the need to protect our planet. . . . Used Car Shopping Tinting is Cool Use the right tools to find the right vehicle . . . . . . . . . . 10 Cruise into summer with simple auto fixes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Six reasons to tint your windows ad the laws to follow. . . . . . . . . . 14 Custom Ride Buying a new car or truck that can be custom fit.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Body Shop 101 Taking the stress out of post-accident repairs. . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The Right Choice... For All The Right Reasons Nationwide Tire Protection Warranty With Over 21,000 Dealers ars 0 Ye sty & 4 ne y of Ho istenc s Con Imp Domorts & estic s CHOOSE EVERGREEN TIRE! Custom Wheels • Brake Service • Oil Changes • Alignment 300 NE Stadium Way Pullman • WA 99163 509. You Have A Choice Where You Get Your Car Repaired. 332.7551 Since 1972 2 | SUMMER CaR CaRE www.EvergreenTirePullman.com CC-11-435798 Are your tires ready for summer driving? Full Service Auto Repair See Our Ad in RV & Boat Batteries ON SALE NOW! Starting at $ on your next set of NEW 4 Passenger Car Tires or 4 Light Truck Tires Not valid with other offers. Expires 7/30/11 50 OFF 00 $ 15 OFF 00 Boat • ATV • RV Trailer Tires Trailer Bearing Repack any service of $100 or More Not valid with other offers. Expires 7/30/11 $ 64 95 ST175/80R13-6ply $ Plus seals, per axle, most trailers. 79 95 Not valid with other offers. Expires 7/30/11 Not valid with other offers. Expires 7/30/11 LEWISTON 553 Thain Rd 208.746.4954 • 800.509.4449 CC-11-435165 www.perfectiontire.com ? Transmission Diagnose & Repair Specialists ? Maintenance & Repair of most all your Auto & light Truck needs Little problem “or big problem – it takes an expert to know the di?erence. x” • Complete Engine Rebuilding • Domestic & Import Cylinder Head Repair • Flywheels • Brake Drums & Rotors Call or Stop By and See • Press Work Tom & Greg Today! • Parts Cleaning CC-11-434591 MACHINE SHOP! We now have a full-service KAMIAH Hwy 12 208.935.2999 1816 Idaho St., Lewiston (Formerly Fred’s Precision Machine) SUMMER CaR CaRE | 3 CC-11-428841 1420 White Ave, Moscow, ID 208-882-2667• palousetrans.com (Across from Les Schwab) 208-743-0312 SUMMER CAR CARE HOW TO SPEND LESS ON GasFUEL When Prices Rise R emember when $4 seemed like an outrageous amount to spend on a gallon of gasoline? Now that number doesn’t seem so far-fetched. While you can’t do anything to control the unrest in the Middle East or oil rig explosions that could lead to gas prices spiking at a moment’s notice, there are a few things you can do to help ease the pain of high gas prices. While buying a more fuel-efficient car might be an option for some, new and used cars that get more miles per gallon tend to be more in demand - and more expensive - when gas prices are high. If a new car isn’t an option for you, implementing the following changes can help ensure that you get the most from the fuel in your gas tank: * Keep the gas you buy in your car. When gas prices are low, stealing gas would likely be more trouble than it’s worth, but when prices are high, it’s not uncommon for thieves to siphon gas 4 | SUMMER CaR CaRE from vehicles, especially those with larger tanks. Adding a locking gas cap can be done for much less than the cost of a tank of gas. In addition to preventing theft, locking fuel tank caps can also prevent anyone from tampering with your gas tank. * Keep your tank full. While you’re looking to reduce the amount of gasoline you are using, constantly running your car with the tank close to empty can wear down your fuel pump. “The gasoline in the tank keeps the fuel pump cool. Take away the gas and the fuel pump runs hot and has a shorter life.” If you have an older car that has accumulated dirt and rust at the bottom of the tank, keeping a full tank can help your fuel burn cleaner. * Keep your car in shape. Keeping your engine properly tuned improves fuel efficiency by an average of 4 percent and repairing a major issue like a faulty oxygen sensor could improve efficiency by up to 40 percent, according the U.S. Department of Energy. Especially if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you could quickly recoup the cost of an oxygen sensor or other repair after as little as one tank of gas through improved fuel economy. * Keep your tires inflated properly. Keeping your tires at the optimal level not only keeps you safer, but can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent, according to the Department of Energy. Your owner’s manual should tell you the proper psi (pounds per square inch) levels for your vehicle. * Drive for optimal gas mileage. How you drive can affect how much gas you use. Most cars run at peak efficiency at around 60 mph, with fuel economy decreasing sharply when traveling fast- er. Aggressive driving with rapid acceleration and slowing will also have a negative effect on your fuel economy. * Reduce weight and drag. Getting rid of items such as roof equipment when they aren’t being used can help your car become more aerodynamic and run more efficiently. Keeping unnecessary items in your car, especially if they are heavy, can also make your car work harder and use more fuel than it needs to. By adding up the small savings gained by each of these tips, you can really notice a difference on how much you are paying at the pump, especially over a long period of time. © ARA Auto • Truck • 4x4’s Domestic & Foreign All Work Guaranteed! • Computer Diagnostics • Clutch Repair & Service • Starter & Alternator Diagnosis • Brakes • Tune Ups • Oil Change • Front End Repair CC-11-435189 865 D Street, Lewiston 208. 746.4335 Kelly, Bryan & Dale SUMMER is almost here! We Understand YOUR Car! “Shop the Rest... Come to the BEST” 4 Transmission Service and Repair 4 Transfer Case 4 Clutches 4 Mufflers & Exhaust Systems 4 Differential Service & Repair 4 Brake Service & Repair 743-5887 • 888-743-5887 1014 Bryden Ave Lewiston, ID 83501 Imported Car Service, Inc Established 1961 ? SAME GREAT SERVICE ? HONESTY NEW LOCATION! 2304 16th Avenue Lewiston, ID Former Honda Building Visit Us At Our QUALITY Providing Quality Service For Select Asian, German & Swedish Cars For the Last 50 Years 1315 SE Bishop Blvd • Pullman, WA 509-332-2314 • ics@pullman.com IN BUSINESS FOR 22 YEARS! CC-11-429918 EXPERIENCE 2304 16th Avenue Lewiston, Idaho 208.746.8584 Mon.–Fri. 8am–5pm Service and Parts OVER A CENTURY OF COMBINED PDQ Import Repair CC-11-428833 Toyota ? Nissan ? Honda ? Audi ? Volkswagen ? Subaru SUMMER CaR CaRE | 5 CC-11-435786 SUMMER CAR CARE AS DRIVERS HOLD ON TO CARS LONGER, SMALL REPAIRS NOW CAN SAVE MONEY, TIME IN THE FUTURE 6 | SUMMER CaR CaRE Drivers are holding on to their cars longer in these tough economic times, so here are some tips to help you get the most out of your investment. olding off on purchasing a new vehicle can be a smart financial decision, especially if drivers properly maintain their vehicles to ensure they’re running safely and efficiently.” “Maintaining and replacing key components, such as brakes and batteries, can keep vehicles on the road and help prevent costly repairs in the future.” The average length of time consumers hold on to their vehicles is more than five years, according to a recent automotive industry study. Older cars can be safe and dependable, but need ongoing maintenance to keep them running at their best. According to the SUMMER CAR CARE National Car Council, 80 percent of vehicles on the road are in need of service or parts. Motorists who know the signs of impending failure and understand the impact extreme weather conditions can have on various car components, can plan ahead for repairs and replacements instead of being hit by an unexpected bill down the road. “The longer car maintenance is delayed, the more costly it can be.” Two key components in any vehicle are the braking system and the battery. Experts offer the following tips to ensure these vital parts are properly maintained. Give brakes a winter check-up. Excessive build-up of road salt and brine solutions in the winter on brake components is one cause of brake failure. These solutions can create contamination of exposed brake parts and can cause brake components to deteriorate prematurely. Hazardous road conditions can also lead to increased use of Antilock Braking Systems (ABS), which can cause premature wear of all brake system components. As temperatures warm up, motorists should check their braking systems to uncover any damage that may have occurred during the winter months. Check brakes quarterly to ensure proper performance. In general, brakes are the most important safety feature on any vehicle and should be checked quarterly to ensure proper performance. Brake pads and rotors should also be checked any time the tires are removed, such as during a tire rotation. Other brake components such as brake fluid should be checked at every oil change. Extreme temperatures can mean battery failure. A battery’s biggest enemy is heat. High temperatures can cause the grids inside batteries to corrode and break down. The effects of the corrosion are usually seen when winter hits, when the car requires more electrical power to start. Drivers should have batteries tested up to twice a year in normal climates, and more frequently in extremely hot or cold climates. Most retailers and shops offer free battery testing. While batteries can last more than five years in ideal driving conditions, factors such as temperature, the car’s age and nature of usage can impact the life of a battery. Many motorists are unaware that under the stress of normal city driving, the average life of a vehicle battery is about three years. According to the National Car Care Council, drivers with batteries more than three years old should consider replacing them, since batteries rarely give warning signs that they are about to fail. Drivers seeking more information about protecting their auto investments and extending the lives of their vehicles can visit their local auto repair shop or parts store for car care tips, seasonal driving advice and maintenance how-to videos. © ARA SUMMER CaR CaRE | 7 “H SUMMER CAR CARE KING OF THE “ hese days, consumers are more aware of the need to protect our fragile planet. They buy products that are environmentally friendly: solar-powered wrist watches, reusable coffee sleeves, designer sunglasses made with renewable materials and even an “eco” beer. What they may not realize is that the commercial trucks that carry the same goods they buy are themselves green. “Commercial truckers, like everyone else, do care about the environment,” says Rick Phillips, director of commercial sales at Yokohama Tire Corporation, which makes “green” truck tires. “I know because they want tires that last longer, perform better, use less fuel and minimize the impact on the environment. “Truckers can drive more than 100,000 miles a year transporting goods,” says Phillips about eco truck tires. “By using the right tires, they can improve fuel economy from 3 to 5 percent in overthe-road applications, and every gallon of gas saved means 20 fewer pounds of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. So being green can pay off and help the planet.” Phillips says Yokohama is no stranger to manufacturing eco-friendly tires. “We also make passenger car and race car tires that use sustainable materials like 8 | SUMMER CaR CaRE T GREEN ROAD ” orange oil to replace much of the petroleum in the tire. You don’t normally put racing and environment in the same sentence, but we do at Yokohama.” So what makes a truck tire green? The way it’s designed is a big factor, plus low rolling resistance - features that result in reduced material consumption and pollution, and contribute to a healthy environment. Low rolling resistance tires improve fuel efficiency because they provide less friction as the tire rolls down the road. Less energy is wasted, and for ecoconscious and budget-conscious truck drivers who want to maximize their mileage, the shift to low rolling resistance tires is a popular upgrade. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is on board with ecofriendly truck tires by way of its SmartWay program, which verifies low rolling resistance tires based on a tough criteria. Seven Yokohama truck tires are on the SmartWay list, including its new 101ZL, which offers truckers even more fuel savings. “We want truckers to save fuel as well as help the planet,” says Phillips. “It’s that simple. We recently launched an interactive, online-based Fuel Savings Calculator that enables commercial fleet owners to learn how they can improve their bottom line in terms of fuel savings. It’s all about using ultrahigh technology to make truck tires that last longer and are more fuel efficient.” While truckers are making their big rigs lean, green driving machines, Phillips says consumers in passenger cars can join the eco revolution by simply checking and maintaining their tires. Here are some of his “green” tips: * Keep your tires properly inflated. Once a month, when the tires are cold (at least three to four hours after the vehicle has been driven), check tire pressure with a reliable tire gauge. Be sure that the valve stems have a plastic or metal cap to keep dirt out and seal against leakage. * Tires must be replaced when the tread is worn down to 1/16th of an inch to prevent skidding and hydroplaning. An easy test: place a penny into a tread groove. If part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread, you’re driving with the proper amount of tread. If you can see all of his head, you should buy a new tire. * Built-in treadwear indicators, or “wear bars,” which look like narrow strips of smooth rubber across the tread, will appear on the tire when the tread is worn to 1/16th of an inch. When you see these wear bars, the tire should be replaced. * Visually check your tires for signs of uneven wear. You may have irregular tread wear if there are high and low areas or unusually smooth areas. Consult your tire dealer as soon as possible. * Tires should be rotated at least every 6,000 to 8,000 miles and the alignment should be checked once a year. Misaligned tires can cause the car to scrub, which lowers mileage and causes unnecessary tire wear. * Slow down. For every five miles per hour you go above 60 mph, you’re lowering your gas mileage and, ultimately, paying even more for each gallon of gas. © ARA ‘Parts are Parts’ just isn’t true in our case. Whether you are repairing your own vehicle or letting the guys at Chipman & Taylor do the work for you, getting the right parts at the right price is the key factor to getting you back on the road. For over 27 years, Jerry Broemmeling (the tall guy to the far right) has been finding the right parts to fit your problem. It says a lot about the character of someone when they show as much passion about what they do as Jerry does. Any parts house can get you cheap parts and instilled in every employee and it all starts send you on your way. But when you have with these guys getting the ball rolling to get three guys like Jerry, Lyle and Pete looking out you rolling back down the road. for you and your vehicle’s best interest, you are guaranteed the very best. The Chipman & Taylor belief of service after the sale has been Where everybody gets a great deal! (509) 334-3555 • 1-800-814-5456 The most dependable, longest lasting trucks on the road. See Our Ad In www.chipmantaylor .com 250 SE BISHOP BLVD., PULLMAN, WA SUMMER CaR CaRE | 9 SUMMER CAR CARE USED CAR SHOPPING? Use the right tools to find the right vehicle 10 | SUMMER CaR CaRE S SUMMER CAR CARE ure, two Ford Mustangs are exactly alike when they role off the assembly line. But, once they go home with a human being, no two cars are ever quite the same again. Maybe one is meticulously maintained, and only driven once a week to church and back. Maybe one gets in an accident, or is owned by a travelling salesman who drives 50,000 miles in a year. Once a vehicle has been on the road even for a short time, it takes on characteristics that make it just a little different from every vehicle on the road. So, with more than 30 million used vehicles sold throughout the United States every year, how can you make sure you get the right used vehicle to fit your needs, meet your price range, and avoid getting a lemon? It comes down to knowing where to look, learning about a vehicle’s history and getting a trusted source to take a look under the hood to make sure the vehicle is in good working condition. First things first -- where to look. The world has shifted to the Internet, and car shopping is no exception. Every day, more than 100,000 people find a vehicle they are looking for by shopping on an automotive website. Online destinations such as eBay Motors, NADA Used Car Guide and CarsDirect.com have literally hundreds of thousands of vehicles searchable by make, model, year, mileage, price and many other attributes to help narrow down a search to a handful of vehicles that meet your criteria. You want a red convertible with a V-6, black interior, ABS and less than 25,000 miles? Chances are, one of these sites can help you find exactly what you are looking for. Once you’ve identified a few vehicles that could meet your driving needs, personal style and price range, it’s important to learn a vehicle’s history. An AutoCheck vehicle history report can show if a car or truck has had possible undisclosed or unknown problems that can affect an automobile’s safety and resale value, such as major flood or frame damage, or odometer rollback issues. One of the things car shoppers are most interested in is whether or not a vehicle has been in an accident. To meet this demand, AutoCheck has incorporated key information including police-reported accidents on vehicles from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as exclusive frame damage records gathered from physical inspections at vehicle auctions. In addition, the AutoCheck Score offers users a system for comparing a vehicle’s history against other vehicles of similar make, model and mileage. This helps shoppers determine whether it is worth paying a little extra for a high quality vehicle. Once you have found a vehicle that fits your needs and you verify its history, it’s still important to have a qualified authority take a look at the vehicle. Because many shoppers are finding vehicles far from home, it can be challenging to physically check the car to make sure the description and condition match the ad. This is where an inspection service, such as InspectMyRide, comes in handy. InspectMyRide has a comprehensive 150-plus point inspection service that provides a detailed analysis of vehicle condition. They send a qualified inspector to the vehicle, perform a road test when conditions permit, inspect the vehicle for signs of damage or concern and return a detailed report - including high-quality digital photos -- usually within 24 hours. This gives car shoppers peace of mind that the vehicle they are looking at is as good as advertised. All of these steps -- searching the databases of major used vehicle shopping Websites, reviewing a detailed vehicle history report and getting an inspection from a trusted resource -- gives consumers the tools they need to find the right vehicle at the right price and make a stress-free purchase decision based on history and expertise. © ARA • Diagnostic • Transmissions & Transfer Cases • Tune-Ups • Fuel pumps • U-Joints • Carburetors • Air Conditioning • Starter & Alternator Rebuilds • Electrical • Brakes • Cooling Systems • Timing Belts • CV Joints & Axle Shafts Electrical Specialists Auto Repair CC-11-428838 Mike, John, Randy, Jim Open Mon–Fri 7:30am–5:30pm 301 Troy Rd., Moscow, ID 83843 208-882-7105 www.esmoscow.com CC-10-415391 FREE Exterior Auto Detail w/Qualifing Body Repair/Paint! See store for details! 215 E Palouse River Drive Moscow, Idaho 208-883-3368 N. 2445 Grand Pullman, Washington 509-332-7274 Main Street Deary, Idaho 208-877-1635 CC-10-415388 Myers Auto Rebuild 334-1717 & Towing Collision Repair & Painting • 24 Hour Towing • 334-4545 Collision Repair & Painting • Free Estimates • Written Warranty • Unibody Frame Repair • Insurance Co. Approved • I-CAR Trained • PPG & ASE Trained “Where Service Is No Accident.” 24 Hour Towing • Accidents • Jump Starts • Unlocks • Mechanical Breakdowns 334-1717 334-4545 Myers Auto Rebuilding & Towing S. 2580 Grand Ave., Pullman SUMMER CaR CaRE | 11 CC-10-416066 We’re Your Go To Collision Repair & Towing Service SUMMER CAR CARE CRUISE INTO SUMMER WITH SIMPLE AUTO FIXES We all know the winter months can be hard on vehicles, and this year was no exception. Chances are your vehicle is in need of a little restoration. Returning your car to optimal condition may be less expensive and timeconsuming than you think. Use these tips to get your car back in shape for a summer of smooth and smart travel. 12 | SUMMER CaR CaRE Paint protection Winter can be tough on a car’s exterior, and snow and ice may have made it difficult to see any chips or scratches in your vehicle. But now spring sunshine will reveal every nick, chip and scratch in your vehicle’s paint. Restoring your ride to its original factory finish takes only minutes with the easy to apply Dupli - Color ScratchFix 2in1. This innovative product is available in hundreds of exact-match colors for domestic and imported vehicles. Simply use the vehicle make, model and year to find your guaranteed match- SUMMER CAR CARE ing color code, and use one of the two applicators to fix any scrapes or nicks in no time. With a roller ball tip for precision and a tapered brush for full coverage, ScratchFix 2in1 will help restore your vehicle to its optimal condition. And not only will ScratchFix 2in1 make your car look great, the touch-up paint will also protect the damaged surface from rusting and becoming a big, expensive problem. Under pressure Driving on tires that are too flat or full can make summer traveling dangerous and expensive. With sky-high gas prices, maintaining optimal air pressure and getting the most out of your miles is more important than ever. You can improve gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent by keeping your tires properly inflated, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The recommended tire pressure for vehicles is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s-side door or glove box, as well as in your vehicle owner’s manual. Checking tire pressure takes only a few seconds, but it may have a significant effect on both your well-being and your wallet. Attention to detail With just a few basic cleaning products and a little elbow grease, you can make your ride gleam. First, remove and wash the floor mats, and vacuum the carpets and seats. Using an all-purpose cleaner, wipe down the dashboard and use canned air to remove dust and dirt from the tiny nooks and crannies in the instrument panel. Use foaming fabric soap or leather cleaner on any stains, and fix small tears with a vinyl repair kit. Next, use hot water and vehicle soap to wash the vehicle in sections from top to bottom. Remember the wheel wells, and give a final rinse to avoid soap spots. When dry, wax the body, including under door jambs and behind the bumpers. Use a toothbrush to remove excess wax from emblems or flat black surfaces, then scrub your tires and polish the rims for a head-turning exterior. You don’t need to break the bank to get your car back in shape for the hottest auto season. With just a little time and minimal cost, a summer-ready car is at your fingertips. These tips will help you whip your vehicle into prime condition, so get ready to show off your refreshed ride and enjoy wherever the new season takes you. © ARA Final Touch / Dent Pro’s has been in business since 1997. “We are the best of the best car care specialists.” We pride ourselves on quality work at an a?ordable price. We have an experienced sta? that you can trust. So be proud this summer to drive your favorite vehicle by having us detail your automobile, truck, RV or boat. Have those ungodly paint chips touched up and remove any of those door dings. Come see us early this summer so you can enjoy your favorite ride in the sun. We can also order any new accessories you may want for your auto or truck. FINAL TOUCH 1240 Cedar Ave, Lewiston, ID 746-8545 Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 am to 5:30 pm. Weekend appointments available. Special anks: Car photo made possible thanks to Ronald & Betty Shows, original owners of the 1969 Pontiac Firebird bought new here in Lewiston. CC-11-435841 Kelly, Sue, Lisa & Clint SUMMER CaR CaRE | 13 SIX TO REASONS TINT YOUR VEHICLE WINDOWS There are many reasons to tint your car from protecting against health concerns, safety and privacy reasons, as well as preserving your investment in your car. Listed are some of the top reasons that people tint their cars. 14 | SUMMER CaR CaRE SUMMER CAR CARE Avoid Overheating Your car’s interior can be 60% cooler during those hot summer days with proper tinting. Protect Your Skin Harmful UV rays from the sun can cause skin cancer. Tinting your car can block 99% of these damaging rays. Accident Protection In an auto accident, tinting can help shattered glass hold together, protecting the occupants of the car. Safer Driving Tinting reduces dangerous glare from the sun, snow, and other headlights, helping you drive safely. Enhanced Privacy Tinting protects your privacy and contents within a car. What a burglar can’t see, he won’t steal. Prevent Cracking and Fading Harmful UV rays and heat cause car upholstery to crack and fade. Car tint is sunscreen for your car. SUMMER CAR CARE Washington Window Tint Law Washington Tint Law Enacted: 2011 HOW DARK CAN WINDOW TINT BE IN WASHINGTON? Darkness of tint is measured by Visible Light Transmission percentage (VLT%). In Washington, this percentage refers to percentage of visible light allowed in through the film only. Windshield Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches of the windshield. Front Side Windows Must allow more than 24% of light in. Back Side Windows Must allow more than 24% of light in. Rear Window Must allow more than 24% of light in. HOW REFLECTIVE CAN THE TINT BE IN WASHINGTON? Similar to sunglass lenses, some tinting film contain metallic elements that help in reflecting incoming light and reducing the glare and heat generated by visible light. Front Side Windows Must not be more than 35% reflective. Back Side Windows Must not be more than 35% reflective. OTHER WASHINGTON RULES AND REGULATIONS Restricted Colors The tint color(s) of RED AMBER YELLOW are not legal by state law. Side Mirrors Dual side mirrors are required if back window is tinted. Certificate Requirements Manufacturers of film need to certify the film they sell in the state. Ask your dealer if they are using ceritified film. Sticker Requirements The sticker to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on the driver’s side window. Medical Exemption State allows medical exemptions for special tint. For more details about the specific terms of the exemption, consult your state law. Idaho Window Tint Law Idaho Tint Law Enacted: 1992 HOW DARK CAN WINDOW TINT BE IN IDAHO? Darkness of tint is measured by Visible Light Transmission percentage (VLT%). In Idaho, this percentage refers to percentage of visible light allowed in through the film only. Windshield Non-reflective tint is allowed along the top of the windshield above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line. Front Side Windows Must allow more than 35% of light in. Back Side Windows Must allow more than 20% of light in. Rear Window Must allow more than 35% of light in. HOW REFLECTIVE CAN THE TINT BE IN IDAHO? Similar to sunglass lenses, some tinting film contain metallic elements that help in reflecting incoming light and reducing the glare and heat generated by visible light. Front Side Windows Must not be more than 35% reflective. Back Side Windows Must not be more than 35% reflective. OTHER IDAHO RULES AND REGULATIONS Restricted Colors No colors of tint are explicitly banned. Side Mirrors Dual side mirrors are required if back window is tinted. Certificate Requirements Manufacturers of film do NOT need to certify the film they sell in the state. Sticker Requirements No sticker to identify legal tinting is required. Medical Exemption State allows medical exemptions for special tint. For more details about the specific terms of the exemption, consult your state law. GOT WATER SPOTS? When Nothing Else Works, Try Bruce’s GSR. It’s the best product on the market for removing severe water spots! • Windows • Windshields • Tile • Shower Doors • Chrome • Porcelain & more! 149 ½ Thain Rd. • Lewiston • 1-800-498-3155 LEWISTON 208-743-3155 MOSCOW 208-882-7934 NOW spread and ruin fix rock chips, Is the time to before they your windshield. Call the Certified Professionals at MGA for all your auto glass needs. Chip Repair or Full Glass Replacement. Insurance approved and recommended. Your locally owned & operated glass shop since1987. 1018 S. Jefferson • Moscow, ID • 208-883-1850 www.moscowglassandawning.com TINTING Blocks 99% of Harmful UV Rays (and it looks cool!) • Do it for the family! • Do it for the baby! • Do it for you! Replacement • Repair • Tinting Window LEWISTON 110 18th Street CC-11-435164 746-4159 AUTO & COMMERCIAL MOSCOW 1304 W. Pullman Rd. 882-8100 SUMMER CaR CaRE | 15 CC-11-435816 CC-11-435783 ? WIPER BLADES ? ? WINDSHIELD REPAIR ? SUMMER CAR CARE BUYING A NEW CAR OR TRUCK THAT CAN BE CUSTOM FIT 16 | SUMMER CaR CaRE S SUMMER CAR CARE tylish wheels, contoured seats, increased fuel efficiency and added horsepower are just a few ways that today’s drivers are personalizing their vehicles. Estimated at nearly $28 billion annually, the automotive customization market is booming and includes thousands of products that can transform any car or truck into the vehicle of one’s dream. “Many people see the vehicles they drive as a reflection of themselves,” says Chris Kersting, Specialty Equipment Market Association president and CEO. “So it’s no surprise that drivers like to customize their cars and trucks to reflect their unique personalities.” While all vehicles can be personalized, shoppers looking for the car or truck with the greatest potential for customization can turn to the SEMA Award to guide them toward the most accessoryfriendly new models. The winning vehicles were selected by manufacturers who develop and design automotive parts and accessories. This year’s winners include the Chevrolet Camaro named Hottest Car, the Ford F-Series named Hottest Truck and the Jeep Wrangler named Hottest 4x4-SUV. “Every year manufacturers bring exciting and inventive new ideas for accessorizing vehicles to the SEMA Show,” says Kersting. “So many amazing products and accessories hitting the market right now involve improving the performance of vehicles’ functionality, safety and convenience and enhancing appearance and comfort. The SEMA Award winners represent the vehicles that offer some of the greatest possibilities.” Chevrolet Camaro: The list of available performance parts and accessories for the Chevrolet Camaro grows daily as its popularity increases. Accessorizing ideas for this car range from air springs to electronic gadgets that charge your phone, provide you with GPS data and even monitor your tire pressure while sitting in the driver seat. Ford F-Series: The Ford F-Series has long been a favorite with enthusiasts and parts manufacturers alike. The truck’s new design has spurred the growth of even more accessories. Some unique features include a slideout bed to make loading and unloading easier for small business owners and special paint protection products to help prevent rocks, gravel, salt or insects from damaging the truck’s finish. Jeep Wrangler: The multi-functional Jeep Wrangler, admired for its versatility as a personal vehicle, off-roading hobbyist’s toy and a great work vehicle, continues to drive demand for innovative custom parts and accessories. Specialty wheels and tires can make this vehicle transform easily from a daily driver to an off-road toy, while custom gauges, floor mats or seat covers provide the vehicle with an instant make-over. With the right parts and accessories, drivers can make a personal statement with their new cars and trucks. Whether drivers are looking to create a highperformance sports car or a rugged truck worthy of off-roading, the first step is to select a vehicle that has the greatest potential for customization. The SEMA Award program provides valuable guidance to those looking for a top-quality vehicle that can be personalized. Before purchasing your next vehicle, visit www.sema.org to learn more about the program and to view complete lists of manufacturers offering products for each of the winning vehicles. Then, you’ll be well on your way to creating a unique vehicle that fits you like a glove. © ARA Accessories Make a Di?erence. Personalize Your Truck, SUV or Car! • Grille Guards • Suspension Systems • Running Boards • Bed Caps • Stainless Rocker Panels • O? Road Equipment MAKE IT YOUR OWN! CUSTOMIZE • Driving Lights • Bumpers • Nerf Bars • Fender Flares • Wheel Trim • Much more! TOWING NEEDS Hitches, Including Installation • Receiver • Fifth Wheel • Gooseneck Wiring & Brake Control Boxes • Diesel Performance Tom & Betsy PERFORMANCE • Exhaust Brakes Service – Repair Installation 807 Snake River Ave (208) 798-8607 SUMMER CaR CaRE | 17 LEWISTON CC-11-435194 SUMMER CAR CARE BODY SHOP 101: Taking the stress out of post-accident repairs o one wants an accident to happen. But chances are at some point you’ll wind up in a fender bender that requires repairs at an automotive collision center. The common misconception about post-collision auto body work is that the insurance company dictates where the claim’s repairs will occur. This isn’t the 18 | SUMMER CaR CaRE N case. In fact, it’s the owner’s responsibility to choose where the repairs will be done. “Don’t wait until you need to find a body shop,” says Craig Williams, director of OEM Global Marketing and Services for Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes. “Investigate several body shops before you find your- self in that kind of stressful situation.” And, as with any business segment, there are some collision repair centers that are better than others. Knowing your options ahead of time is a good thing. “There’s still no better recommendation than word of mouth, so be sure to start your search by asking friends and family for recommendations of good collision centers or ones they would not recommend,” Williams adds. A local consumer organization, such as the Better Business Bureau or Angie’s List, can provide insight into the quality of facilities you are considering. Ask about the number of complaints, if any, SUMMER CAR CARE and also inquire as to how the complaints were resolved. “The Better Business Bureau is a great resource,” says Johnny Mock, owner of Johnny Mock Auto Body in Turtle Creek, Pa., near Pittsburgh. “If a shop has numerous complaints, you know it’s one you should avoid.” Another good source is Automobile Association of America. “AAA will only put a business on their approved list if it meets a certain high level of customer satisfaction,” says DeLee Powell, president of Baker’s Collision Repair Specialists in Mansfield, Ohio. “The approval process is pretty stringent.” Next, be sure to visit any shops that you are considering, keeping these three factors in mind: cleanliness, readiness and presentation. A premier collision center will be neat, well-organized and have modern equipment. “You should feel comfortable the minute you walk into a body shop,” Powell advises. “You immediately should feel like it is a place that can properly repair your vehicle.” “Ask for a tour of the shop and take a good look around,” says Mock, a former BodyShop Business Executive of the Year recipient. “Is the shop clean and neat? What does the quality of work look like? Is the person giving the tour proud of what they are showing you?” A professionally run collision center also should have a courteous staff who is willing to answer important questions. Some key ones to ask include the following: * Do you have experience handling the make/model of my car? * Do you have experience working with my insurance carrier? * How long does a repair take? * What kind of training and certifications do your technicians have? * Will I be able to track the progress of my repair online and/or will you keep me updated on a regular basis? * What kind of technology do you use in your shop? The latest equipment in alignment systems, diagnostics and painting technology signifies a tech savvy shop. Believe it or not, the painting system a body shop uses is one of the most important facets of a repair. “Factory finishes incorporate multiple layers of highly specialized paints, and without the use of sophisticated techniques and training, high-tech factory finishes cannot be duplicated successfully,” Williams says. “Be sure the body shop you select has invested in the finest, most advanced painting system available and takes pride in its ability to match factory finishes. A bad paint finish will detract from any other well-done repairs.” Mock suggests holding a discussion with shop management about what you can expect. Make sure they follow an internal quality control checklist when you come to pick up your car. Management should include items such as paint match, door gaps and even cleanliness of the car on their checklists. “You want to find a shop that is helpful in taking the stress out of the situation,” Mock says. “The expense of vehicles today is immense, and if you do have an accident, you want to be confident that the body shop you select will put your vehicle back into its pre-accident condition. The idea that a car that has been in an accident will never be the same is a misconception. A quality body shop can restore it to pre-accident condition.” © ARA BEEN WAITING FOR THE RIGHT OFFER TO GET THAT BIG REPAIR JOB DONE? Select your discount, present this for: $7.50 OFF any repair or maintenance service of $100 or more $15 OFF any repair or maintenance service of $200 or more $30 OFF any repair or maintenance service of $400 or more ASE Certi?ed Technicians Tech-Net Member Sergio’s COLLISON REPAIR & AUTO PAINTING FAMOUS BODY SHOP 3 days or less! ? Quality Job ? Quick Return f ? 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Moneysaver Car Care Guide - Summer - 2011