![Tips & Tricks: Cool Down your Car or Truck in the Summer Heat [Video].](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxMDgwIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjY3NSIgdmlld0JveD0iMCAwIDEwODAgNjc1Ij48cmVjdCB3aWR0aD0iMTAwJSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxMDAlIiBzdHlsZT0iZmlsbDojY2ZkNGRiO2ZpbGwtb3BhY2l0eTogMC4xOyIvPjwvc3ZnPg==)
by L Baures | Jul 24, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
Hot in there?
In a previous article about GM vehicle’s ‘rear seat reminder’ feature to reduce heat stroke deaths, we discovered that;
Within 10 minutes, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise by 19°F
In 2-4 hrs the temperature can rise as much as 55°F. Cracking the windows has less than a 3°F difference, ie. leaving the windows open a little doesn’t help.
If it’s an option, finding a parking spot in the shade will reduce that baking sun heat from burning your vehicle up like an egg on the stove. This is isn’t always an option though, and it may still get pretty hot in there.
So how do you cool your car down faster?
For vehicles equipped with remote start, start your vehicle up to ten minutes before you leave to let it cool down first. Some vehicles may have automatic climate control, in which case, the vehicle already knows the temperature. During the remote start process, the car or truck will automatically turn on the AC, and if equipped, the ventilated seats too.
If you have a Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or RAM truck, and it’s equipped with ‘Auto On Comfort Climate‘ the vehicle will automatically turn on the AC (and ventilated seats if equipped) during remote start. That is if the temperature is at or above 80º F. To remote start the vehicle, use your key fob to press the remote start button twice. If you have the UConnect smartphone app, you can also do this via the app. Remote starting will lock the doors, so no need to worry about theft.
Newer GMC, Chevrolet, and Buick vehicles will have a similar feature that will also automatically turn on the AC and ventilated seats (if equipped). There are smartphone apps through OnStar, Chevrolet MYLink, myGMC, or myBuick that allow you remote start. Using the key fob, press and release the lock button then press and hold the semi0circle (remote start) button.
For Ford‘ and Lincoln vehicles, “If your vehicle has automatic climate control, you can configure it to begin operating when you remote start your vehicle. A manual climate control system will run at the setting it was set to when you switched the vehicle off.” To remote start a Ford, using the key fob, press the ‘lock’ button, then press the ‘remote start’ button twice. The remote start button is the circle with the arrow and 2X written on the inside of the circle.
If your vehicle has remote start, but not automatic climate control, you may have to go to the vehicle and turn on the AC manually. You’ll have to unlock and re-lock the doors to turn the climate on and keep it safe from thieves.
Open passenger window, fan drivers door (as shown in the video above)
No remote start, or don’t want to wait for the AC to kick in full blast? Another way to cool down the car is to fan out the hot air. Yip. Open a window (for example, the passenger side). Then open the opposite side door (in this example that would be the drivers’ door) and fan the door. Fan the door a few times or more. This expels the hot air out and cooler air in. This way, you’ve already gotten rid of some of the hot air so when you turn on the AC, it’s already a little cooler in the cabin. This may look a little weird to a bystander, but give it a try. Let us know if it works.
According to 3M, their automotive Crystalline Series automotive film rejects up to 60% of solar energy entering the vehicle.
Windshield sunshades/ sunscreens will also help reflect heat from the vehicle. Of course, these only work on the windshield and you still have the rest of your windows, but every little helps.
The fastest way to get the air conditioning working cooler is to drive the vehicle and get the air flowing. Just like driving helps heat up your vehicle in the winter, the same applies for cooling it down.
The recirculation function on your blower uses the air that’s already inside the vehicle. When your car or truck is super hot, this means it’s recirculating the air that’s already hot. The air outside, even though probably still hot, might be less hot than the air inside the vehicle. Turn off the recirculation function and let some fresh air until cooled a little. When the cabin reaches a comfortable temperature, turn it back on, as the air inside will now be cooler.
Air re-circulation icon
Open all the windows (some cars now have this feature remotely on the key fob)
Gone are the days when you have to open every door and wind the windows down. As good as sliced bread, having electric windows means we can push them all down ‘with the touch of a button’. Some newer cars can even open all four window with the touch of a button on the key fob. For example, this feature on equipped Ford’s is called ‘Global Open Windows‘ and it works by holding down the ‘unlock’ button on the key fob for 3 seconds.
Service the A/C (HVAC) system
If your vehicle isn’t blowing cold air that’ll make you think you can freeze hearts like a Disney princess, maybe it’s time to let-it-go in for a service. A/C systems don’t typically need ‘re-charged’. It could be a leak in the system, a faulty compressor, loose hose, faulty fan, clogged hose, broken seals, refrigerant breakdown, or electrical issues.
Stay cool!
by L Baures | Jul 23, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
What is Octane rating?
An octane rating is a numerical figure that represents the antiknock properties of a fuel. There are different ways of measuring octane ratings, and the U.S. uses the Anti-Knock Index (AKI).
What is regular grade gas in Wyoming?
According to the Federal Trade Commission, regular gasoline is usually 87 octane, mid-grade is 89 octane with premium usually being at 92 or 93 octane. If you are ready this anywhere in Wyoming or even Denver, you might be pondering right now. Those are not the choices you are most likely to see at your local gas station.
The local gas station offers 85, 87 and 91. Why is that?
I called the Wyoming Dept of Agriculture and they told me that 85 Octane is the legal minimum octane rating for motor fuel in Wyoming. I asked them why that was and the reply was… altitude. He referred me to an ASTM publication but told me the information was proprietary.
Altitude
Air is less dense at altitude. Air and fuel is what is mixed in the engine to make it go. The theory is, that, if the air is less dense then the fuel needed can have less of an octane rating.
The dept. states in a document titled, ‘Notice of Intent to Adopt Rules’, “The allowable reductions in vehicle anti knock requirements for altitude are 4.5 for less than 89 Antiknock Index (AKI), and 3.0 for greater than 89 AKI. Fuel may be marketed using these reductions, but actual AKI minimum must be posted”.
What do vehicle manufacturers recommend?
Most vehicle manufacturers recommend 87 Octane 0-15% ethanol, which means buying a mid-grade fuel in Wyoming as opposed to a regular grade fuel in most other States. In an article by USA Today, General Motors fuel specialist Bill Studzinski said, “We do not endorse the use of 85 octane or lower”.
The Federal Lands Transportation Institute also said in a document that, “Most modern vehicles with fuel injection can automatically compensate for higher altitude. The Electronic Control Module (ECM) (also called Electronic Control Unit ‐ ECU) will adjust the fuel mixture for higher altitude to prevent the engine from “running rich” (too much fuel in the mixture, and not enough oxygen).”
“The most typically used engine management systems found in automobiles today have a knock sensor that monitors if knock is being produced by the fuel being used. In modern computer-controlled engines, the ignition timing will be automatically altered by the engine management system to reduce the knock to an acceptable level”.¹
What about premium fuel?
There is only a need to use premium fuel if it is a requirement for your vehicle. For example, if it says on the gas door cap or in the owners manual, 91 or premium unleaded only. If your vehicle doesn’t require premium fuel, there are no benefits to using it as your vehicle must be tuned for that type of fuel. It won’t clean your engine any better than mid-grade fuel.
Is 85 Octane Ok To Use At Altitude?
It seems there is not a definitive answer to this as far as modern vehicles go (anything without a carburetor).
The EPA says on their website, “The sale of 85 octane fuel was originally allowed in high-elevation regions—where the barometric pressure is lower—because it was cheaper and because most carbureted engines tolerated it fairly well. This is not true for modern gasoline engines. So, unless you have an older vehicle with a carbureted engine, you should use the manufacturer-recommended fuel for your vehicle, even where 85 octane fuel is available”.
A safe bet would be to check the owners manual for your vehicle or open your fuel flap to check which fuel is recommended.
What gas do you use?
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Regular grade gas is the most common choice by Wyomingites.
Assuming you don’t have a diesel, what grade of gas do you use? Did you notice any ‘knocking’ from your engine? Do you get the manufacturers recommended mpg? Have you switched grades, did you notice a difference in mpg, power, knock?
“Octane Rating.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 6 Sept. 2017, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Octane_rating
Phelan, Mark. “Vacationers, Beware: Bad Gas Can Damage Your Car.” USA Today, Gannett Satellite Information Network, 29 May 2013, www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2013/05/29/bad-gasoline-low-octane-too-much-ethanol/2369579/.
“Wyoming Prime Supplier Sales Volumes.” Wyoming Prime Supplier Sales Volumes of Petroleum Products, U.S. Energy Information Administration, 21 Aug. 2017, www.eia.gov/dnav/pet/pet_cons_prim_dcu_SWY_a.htm
Concas, Sisinnio. “Performance of Alternative Fuels at High Altitude.” Federal Lands Transportation Institute, Apr. 2012.
by L Baures | Jul 16, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
July 14th, 2018, the Natrona County 4-H and FFA Junior Livestock Sale was held at the Central Wyoming Fairgrounds, Casper.
4-H and FFA (Future Farmers of America) are organizations for youth to learn. Not just about farming or agriculture, but also to develop as a young entrepreneur, learn leadership and valuable life lessons.
A list of successful people who started their career in 4-H includes former Ford Motor Company CEO, Harold Poling.
The Junior Livestock Sale is a bittersweet event for these youth. Throughout the year they will train, groom and prepare their animals for shows and for this sale.
To sell the animal is great news, it’s a business transaction (hopefully a profitable one) but it is also goodbye.
Ross Sutton, General Manager of Fremont Motor Casper Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Trucks attended the auction with his wife.
They wandered the stalls back and forth, carefully examining each project. Understanding perfectly how this works Mr. Sutton and his wife also have children who participated in 4-H and FFA.
He said in an earlier interview, “Not only is it valuable for the kids involved but has a great impact on the local economy. It brings businesses in the community together.”
This year they purchased 10 animals in total; 2 steers, 6 pigs, a sheep, and a goat. All of the animals/meat will be donated to local charities in the area.
One of the hogs purchased was from 4-H and FFA member, Kendra Meyer and a steer from Jordyn Renquist.
Kendra Meyer
13-year-old Kendra has participated in 4-H for many years. Based in Evansville, WY, her family raises and produces hogs for market, Kendra grew up around them, however, this is only her 2nd year showing pigs.
The most challenging part of pigs she says is teaching it to walk with the stick.
Twice a week she spends time walking around with the animal and weighing it.
Her favorite part of the process is selling and although her least favorite part is cleaning the pens, she hopes to come back again next year. She will now take the animal to show at State Fair before handing it over.
With the earnings from the sale, Kendra will spend it towards next years Junior livestock sale animals. Kendra also raises goats and rabbits and says the goats are her favorite., “…they are fun!”
She also would like to thank the buyers. Without them, it is not possible for any of this to happen.
Kendra Meyer in the ring at the 2018 Natrona County Junior Livestock Auction
Kendra walking with her pig in the barn
Jordyn Renquist
In her 7th year in 4-H, she used to show pigs, but Jordyn decided she wanted to do something more challenging this time.
In her first showing steers, she says the biggest challenge is building trust with the animal. “…because once you break the trust, it’s hard to get it back.
Her earnings from this year will go towards paying back equipment purchased and towards next years animals. Next year, Jordyn is going to do a lamb, a steer, and two pigs.
This talented young lady is also on the meats judging team, so if you happen to be at the grocery store at the same time, you might want to see which steak she picks out!
Jordyn is extremely thankful for the experiences she gets to have through 4-H and FFA.
“All the opportunities I get ‘cos most kids don’t have the same opportunity to raise an animal from being very young to market weight.”
Jordyn Renquist
Here are some more photos from the day.
Check out last years event here.
2019 Natrona County Jnr Livestock Auction
by L Baures | Jul 16, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
What is the right kind of tire?
There was this one time (not at band camp) I ended up stranded in the mountains of Wyoming, in the dark, no cell service, and a known bear to be in the area. This happened due to a bad tire, and boy, I don’t want to go through that again. I learned first hand that tires really do make a huge difference and in Wyoming for example, where there are a lot of gravel and dirt roads, cheap tires are not worth the risk. It’s worth noting too, that new trucks usually come equipped with highway tires (unless upgraded through the dealership or from the factory). These may do ok short term on dirt and gravel roads, but perhaps not the best for long-term use. Choosing the right tire for the type of terrain, weather and driving you do is important. Here, we are looking at all-terrain tires.
What are ‘All-Terrain’ tires?
A fully fledged rock crawling or oversized mud tire is great for those purposes but not very civilized for every day driving. A more practical all around tire that is is acceptable on the highway but also capable of negotiating sand, gravel, dirt. These will also perform to some extent on snow.
Treadwear ratings
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Administration) has a wear rating system to determine how long the tire will last. The higher the number, the longer it will last. The way it works is a control tire is given a rating of 100. A tire grade of 200 is expected to last twice as long as that of a tire with a 100 rating. NHTSA says that of current tires,
- 15% are rated below 200
- 25% are rated 201 – 300
- 32% are rated 301 – 400
- 20% are rated 401 – 500
- 6% are rated 501 – 600
- 2% are rated above 600
Traction ratings
NHTSA traction is graded from highest to lowest as “AA”, “A”, “B”, and “C”. This rated for how well the tire can stop on wet pavement. ‘AA’ being the best and ‘C’ being the worst
Which All-Terrain Tires are the best?
Ford F-150 Raptor, photo: Ford
After talking with some tire experts at Fremont Motors and checking out research and reviews, we came up with a list. These are the tires that consistently come up (from various sources) as the best all-terrain tires. In no particular order;
BF Goodridge All-Terrain T/A KO
According to the BF Goodridge tire rating system, this all-terrain tire gets a score of 8/10 for off-road performance. It gets an 8/10 for braking, 6/10 for comfort, and 6/10 for fuel efficiency. It also features ‘Stone Ejectors’ to protect the tire as well as ‘Mud-phobic Bars’ in the shoulder to aid traction in mud. This tire passes ‘Severe Snow Traction Requirements’. Treadwear/traction rating is not yet rated by the NHTSA, however, the manufacturers rate it at a 9/10 for wear.
BF Goodridge
Mud and snow rated, the Cooper Discoverer A/T3 get’s amazing ratings for dry and west performance as well as tread wear. Cooper tires rate them at about a 6 for off-road performance but around an 8/10 for quietness. They come with 60,000 miles of treadwear protection with the NHTSA treadwear rating at 560. Traction rating is an ‘A’.
This tire comes with a choice of two sidewall designs. Nitto rates these as 4/5 for dry performance, 4/5 for wet performance,3.5/5 for comfort. For quietness, Nitto gives a 4/5 and off-road performance 3/5. Treadwear rating of 500. It’s worth noting the Terra Grappler G2 gets a treadwear rating of 600. Traction rating is ‘A’.
Winter rated and available with a studdable option, this all-terrain tire comes with a 45-day trial. It features an aggressive 5-row tread pattern that is also self-cleaning. General Tires say that the acoustics of the tire are highly engineered to make the aggressive tire still quiet on paved roads. NHTSA treadwear rating is 640. Traction rating is ‘A’.
Goodyear Wrangler MT/R Kevlar / Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac
With sidewall made from DuPont™ Kevlar® (the same as bulletproof vests), this tire is more resistant to punctures in the sidewall from rocks. It also features a wrap-around tread for extra grip in mud, sand, and rocks. The MT/R is the top of the line all-terrain tire from Goodyear. Other options include the Wrangler DuraTrac which an all-terrain tire that is winter rated unlike the MT/R with Kevlar. The MT/R seems to have limited availability in sizes according to my search. The MT/Rs are more towards an aggressive off-road tire vs the DuraTrac that is more of all around all-terrain. From personal experience, the DuraTrac’s are not exceptional in wet mud, but do good in snow, gravel, and rocks. NHTSA wear rating for the DuraTrac is 500 and the MT/R is not rated.
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Goodyear M/T R
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Goodyear Duratrac
Looking to switch out tires soon? Most of these tires should be available at your preferred Fremont Motors dealership. They will also be able to assist with sizes if you still have the same size as the factory tires. Not sure how to figure out what size you need, check out our article on What Do the Numbers on Tires Mean?
“Search | Safercar — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).” Tires Rating, NHTSA, 2018, www.safercar.gov/Vehicle-Shoppers/Tires-Rating/Search?brand=Goodyear.
Using your truck for hunting?
Check out Top Pickup Truck Accessories for Hunting
by L Baures | Jul 11, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
What is resale or residual value?
Resale or residual value is an approximate valuation of a vehicle upon selling it. Cars and trucks are depreciating assets, which means, they are most likely losing their value (worth) every day. They get used, worn and even if your vehicle sits in your garage, it’s still aging. There are a few exceptions though. Vehicles that are classics or very rare may appreciate in value and become worth more over time.
How much do vehicles depreciate?
In our article, ‘What is my Trade Worth‘, we cover this topic more. In short, “the average vehicle depreciates 15-20% a year. According to CARFAX over 6 years, the average vehicle loses 60% of its total value.”
Some cars and trucks DO hold their value better than others!
Factors that can affect resale value are; brand reputation, supply and demand, gas prices, and warranty. Here is a list of the top 10 vehicles for 2018 that are predicted to hold their value the best according to KBB.
1. Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma has been top of Kelley Blue Book’s, “2018 Best Resale Value Awards: Top Ten Cars” for quite a while now (four years to be exact), so it’s no surprise it’s still no.1. Nicknamed the ‘Taco’, it’s a smaller truck that packs a punch, especially in the off-road world with TRD Pro and TRD Pro Off-Road versions.
Toyota Tacoma, Photo: Toyota
2. Toyota Tundra
The Tacoma’s big brother, this full-size pickup from Toyota is expected to retain 64.7% of its value according to Kelley Blue Book. The Toyota Tundra is made in Texas and only made for the U.S. market. A 4.30 rear axle ratio is standard on the 5.7 liter equipped trucks with the tow package. Towing capacity is at 9,900 lbs on the 4×4 double cab.
2018 Toyota Tundra
3. Toyota 4Runner
Another Toyota lands a top spot on the best resale value list. This time it’s an SUV, the 4Runner. Currently in its fifth generation, and remaining mostly unchanged since 2009, the 4Runner has proven a steadfast vehicle. A good four-wheel drive system, along with optional 3rd-row seating and impressive ground clearance make this SUV a winner for families in the mountains. And, it holds its value.
Toyota 4Runner, Photo: Toyota
4. Jeep Wrangler
Ah. A break from typing Toyota. Coming in at number four is the Jeep Wrangler. The infamous Americana off-road beast got a redesign for 2018. More features added inspired by Jeep enthusiasts. When you get a Wrangler, it’s not just a car. It’s a way of life. Ride around in the summer with the top off or go muddin’. At least you’ll be comfortable knowing it made the top ten list of vehicles that keep their value the most. Check out this video we did of a Jeep Aventure in Wyoming.
2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Photo: FCA
5. GMC Sierra
This pickup from General Motors, despite the changes coming for 2019 it still holds a strong place as the 5th best vehicle to hold it’s value. The GMC’s stand aside from their sister Chevy trucks with a little more luxury and refinement. The 2018 GMC Sierra 2500 Denali won Truck Trend’s, ‘Truck of the Year’ award.
2019 GMC Sierra AT4, Photo: GM
6. Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevy Silverado is the 3rd most popular vehicle in the state of Wyoming and 6th best vehicle at holding its value. The Chevy’s independent suspension set up gives it a smoother ride for highway miles, especially with the MagneRide™ available on the High Country model. ZR1 packages available for off-road.
2018 Chevrolet Silverado High Country
7. Ford F-Series
Most popular truck in the United States (including Wyoming for 2017), this award-winning pickup truck series comes 7th. For the 2018 model year, the F-150 got a mid-cycle refresh with new styling cues and added technology. Top of the line trim levels on both half-ton pickups and Super Duty’s have Multi-Contour with Active Motion® (massage) seats. F-150 Power Stroke diesels are now hitting dealer lots throughout the country.
Ford Super Duty, Photo: Ford
8.Chevrolet Colorado
A mid-sized pickup that returned in 2015, the Chevrolet Colorado has always made the KBB top value list. The Colorado ZR2 edition (off-road trim) is a Motor Trend ‘Truck of the Year’ finalist for 2018. Diesel and gas options are available, with the diesel estimated fuel economy at 28 mpg on the highway. Off-Road.com reported on an AEV (American Expedition Vehicles) converted Colorado potentially going into production. The ZR2 Bison.
9. Honda Ridgeline
A mid-sized pickup that looks very car-ish. This Honda has a 5’3 bed is standard and it has a towing capacity of 5000lbs.
Honda Ridgeline, Photo: Honda
10.Subaru WRX
The only car on this list, the 2018 AWD turbocharged sedan comes in at no.10. With a rally heritage and cult following, this driver enthusiast car is one of few cars still available with a manual transmission. Stiff suspension and a loud exhaust paired with almost 300 hp means you’ll either love or hate this Subaru. The more powerful STI trim has a driver control center differential (DCCD).
2018 Subaru WRX, Photo: Subaru
2019 Top 10 Vehicles With the Best Resale Value, Trucks and SUVs
Source: “2018 Best Resale Value Awards | Kelley Blue Book.” Kbb.com, Kelley Blue Book, 2018, www.kbb.com/new-cars/best-resale-value-awards/.
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