Driving for the first time can be scary, you aren’t sure what to expect, but you are full of excitement. Before you put the pedal to the metal and take off, you should read these top 10 things that all new drivers need to know. 1. There are no take-backs in driving. You need to pay attention to all of your surroundings because if you hit something you can’t take back that action with an apology. There are consequences that you have to own up to and face, not to mention it can be very pricey. 2. Speeding is overrated. You might think it’s cool, and you want to impress someone with your led foot, but it’s very dangerous. It’s not only hazardous to yourself but the other drivers on the road. Take your time, don’t speed, and enjoy the view you have while driving. 3. What to do when you get pulled over. You might be freaking out the first time you get pulled over or worry that the police are going to call your parents. They don’t call your par ... read more

It’s a cliche to say that we Americans love our cars. But just because something is a cliche doesn’t mean it isn’t 100 percent true. We do love our cars! Why, though? Well, cars mean freedom for a lot of us. What’s better than grabbing your keys and jumping behind the wheel to take off on the spur of the moment--on a road trip to a famous location, to visit an old friend, or just to pick up some late-night munchies? To a lot of Americans, our cars reflect our personalities. And why not? Most of us spend an awful lot of time behind the wheel. Why not take the time to figure out exactly what kind of vehicle both meets our needs and tells the world, “Hey, world, here I am!” What do different types of cars say about their owners? Pickup truck drivers tend to be hardworking and no-nonsense. People drive hybrids both to save money on gas and because they care about the environment. Drivers of sports cars like to feel powerful and attractive. Do you kno ... read more

Remember when you were a kid and a big midweek snowstorm roared in? Did you get super excited and hope so hard that schools would close so you’d get a snow day? What was more fun than that: an unexpected day off to stay inside, watch cartoons, and drink hot chocolate? Snowball fights and building snow forts with your friends? What could be better than freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall?  Then you grew up... and suddenly “snow days” weren’t your fondest wish anymore. Instead, even in the winter snow, sleet, hail, and ice, you still have to get to work, run errands, drive the kids where they need to go...and winter weather isn’t so fun anymore.  What are some specific hazards to driving in winter, and what precautions can you take to keep you and your family safe on the roads? Well, we are glad you asked! About 25 percent of car accidents have weather as a factor. Extreme winter weather creates hazards on the road: snow, ice, sleet, poor v ... read more

Do you stress out when December rolls around, and you struggle to find the perfect gifts for the car lovers on your list? We feel your pain. You can only give someone so many dashboard bobbleheads and “funny” bumper stickers (My Other Car Is an [Insert Reference to Hobby of Choice] before your car enthusiast giftees will start giving you the stink eye (or, worse, asking for gift cards). But don’t despair! We’ve compiled a list of some unusual and cool gifts for your gearhead friends and family members. Car Seat Gap Filler Did you even know that this is a thing? It’s a thing! Car seat gap fillers fit in between the car seats and the center console to keep small items from falling into the gap and disappearing forever. If you’ve ever dropped your cell phone in between your seat and the center console of your car, you can probably appreciate the car seat gap filler. Maybe your car enthusiast will, too! No Blind Spot Rearview Mirror This mirror shows a ... read more

Chicago, IL Of course, there’s always something to see and do in Chicago. That goes without saying. But if you want to play tourist, drive the short distance to Chicago and treat yourself to a weekend getaway. Here are a few places to consider visiting in Chicago: The Chicago Mural in Logan Square The National Hellenic Museum in Greektown Some of the ethnic restaurants Paseo Boricua in the Humboldt Park neighborhood or Little Vietnam near Broadway in Uptown Watch comedy improvisation from The Second City at Chicago Mainstage   Geneva, IL With its boutique shops, fabulous cuisine, lovely weather, and plenty of activities, Geneva is a terrific place to drive. You can meet with friends, visit the Fabyan Windmill, or take a long bike ride along the Fox River Trail.   Milwaukee, WI If you like beer, you need to go here. The people are friendly and there are plenty of family-friendly activities. Top picks are the Harley-Davidson Museum, Discovery World, and the Milw ... read more

Motorists Should Be Aware of the "Rules" if They are Playing the Car Game   According to the University of Michigan, 65% of a vehicle's depreciation occurs in the first 4.5 years. That study is dated, but time has not affected the concept, other than the fact that the average price of a vehicle is now $30,000 instead of $20,000.   It is not a coincidence that vehicle manufacturers have trained the consumer to trade, on average, every 4.5 years. The dealers make their maximum profit by giving the current owner the trade in value, aka the depreciated value and reselling the used vehicle at retail. So Rule #1 is if you like to get a new car every few years, do not buy, stick with leasing - it lowers your depreciation cost. Another place where consumers hurt themselves is not understanding that the new car manufacturer and dealer ... read more

    As we welcome October, it is finally beginning to feel like fall. The 80 degree days are behind us (hopefully), and it is time to start bundling up and enjoying a nice warm drink near the fire.   Although it may seem to be a little early to be talking about winter, when it comes to you car, October is the perfect month to make sure you have everything in place to ensure that your vehicle keeps you warm and safe.   Tires are the one of the most important parts of your car. Without them, your car would not be able to get very far - or go anywhere for that matter. It is crucial that your car has tires on it that have enough traction to drive smoother and safer throughout slippery conditions. It is recommended that these tires have a tread of 5/32” for maximum traction.   In addition to having the appropriate tires, you need to have your brakes tested to ensure they are fun ... read more