Vehicle Spotlight of the Month: The New 2016 Audi Q5

Audi has redefined the clunky crossover with a sleek new design only found in the 2016 Q5. The all-weather drive, refined interior design and rearview camera complete the perfect vehicle trifecta. Safety features are not lost on the stylish crossover. The laundry list of safety equipment includes front, side and curtain airbags, as well as stability and traction control. The smooth V-6 torque makes this vehicle fun to drive, but those who aren’t driving can stay entertained with Bluetooth, satellite radio and a panoramic sunroof.

Dangers of Road Salt, And How to Avoid It

It’s no secret that road salt is imperative to safe driving on icy winter roads. What many drivers don’t know, however, is that while it is pertinent to keeping roads safe, it can also cause serious damage to vehicles overtime. One of the biggest problems caused by salt? Rust. Rust to certain vehicle parts can cause hydraulic break system leaks to subframe damage according to AccuWeather.com. Underneath cars is a very open panel that allows salt, snow and ice to build up which can eventually cause corrosion, effecting a vehicle’s exhaust and muffler system or even erode the frame of a car overtime. To avoid these problems make sure to visit a car wash that provides an under-spray frequently throughout Winter. This will help wash away most erode-causing salt.

Winter Tires vs. All Season Tires

Is it necessary to buy winter tires if your vehicle is equipped with all season tires? Every driver is different and depending on weather and road conditions, it may be that buying winter tires is more beneficial. While most vehicles have all season tires, in actuality they are designed to handle wet roads and light winter driving. All season tires don’t necessarily provide the same traction and grip as winter tires. These tires are best for drivers commuting in moderate climates, avoiding extreme ice and snow in winter months. Winter tires are better suited for driving through heavy snowfall and black ice. These are better for country driving or areas that do not get plowed as much as city roads. Whether it’s all season or winter tires, it is important that you assess the climate of where you live to make the most educated choice.

Tricks to Stick to 2016 Resolutions

With a new year comes new resolutions. Here are some tips to help you stick to, and accomplish those 2016 goals.

1. Make sure your goals are clear and concise
2. Track your progress
3. Don’t expect immediate changes- be patient!
4. Get your family and friends involved to support you
5. Don’t be afraid if you relapse and don’t be too hard on yourself

Dangers of Winter Coats and Car Seats

Keep kids warm and safe this winter with this crucial car seat tip. Average winter coats and puffy snowsuits add approximately 4 inches of slack into a child’s harness straps. These 4 inches may not seem to be a big difference, but according to studies from Consumer Reports, that much slack could cause serious damage to a child in a collision. How do you keep your child safe but still warm in the car? First, secure the child in their seat with the chest lock at the same height of their armpit. After the child is secure put their jacket on backwards so it still covers them. Or for a quicker hack, replace the jacket with a blanket tucked around the child and their buckles. Use these tips and make sure to follow proper car seat guidelines to ensure your little ones stay warm and safe this winter.

Snow Day Activities to Entertain Your Little Ones

Locked indoors with the kids on a snow day? Instead of resorting to movies all day try these fun crafts and games to keep them occupied:

• Make yummy indoor snowmen using 3 jumbo marshmallows and decorate with pretzel arms and chocolate chip eyes
• Make use of all that snow and make snow cones using fresh fallen snow, lemon juice and a little sugar
• Bring the snow fun inside by filling up your bathtub with a few buckets of snow. This lets the kids play with the snow without worrying about them freezing and is easy to clean.