Thom's Four Wheel Drive

If floodwaters partially or fully submerge your car, it can mean extensive damage and costly repairs. Here's what to do after the waters recede. Vehicle Flood Damage Checklist 1. Survey potential damage. Note the depth of the floodwaters in relation to your car. Don't try to start your car - this will cause more damage if there is water in the engine. 2. Act quickly. Submersion in salt water - which is more damaging than fresh water - makes the chances of corrosion much higher. Start drying out your vehicle as quickly as possible, a ... read more

Once upon a time, buying a new car may have sounded like a dream come true, but keeping your car through the “Cinderella Era” can mean more gold at the end of the rainbow, says the non-profit Car Care Council. “The smartest way to get a solid return on your vehicle investment is to keep your car through what we call the ‘Cinderella Era.’ That’s the period of time after the payoff when your car is still in great shape and needs only modest repairs,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “With proper care, the typical vehicle shou ... read more

It’s definitely time to clean your car if someone writes “wash me” on your vehicle. Even if your car hasn’t reached that point, a good cleaning of the inside and outside prevents the buildup of damaging chemicals and dirt, reduces the potential for rust from road salt and helps ensure proper visibility needed for safe driving, according to the non-profit Car Care Council. To get started, remove any clutter from inside the car, including items that have accumulated in the trunk that can add extra weight and reduce fuel efficiency. The next step is to thoroughly clean an ... read more

The news is full of stories about soaring airfares, checked bag fess and extended wait times in airport security lines. When you consider the time and cost of flying, it becomes clear that travel by car is the way to go, says the non-profit Car Care Council. “Standing in line for hours in order to board an overcrowded plane after paying extra to check bags has made air travel a real headache,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “With no relief in sight, more and more travelers are realizing the benefits of driving to their destinations. Since a family of ... read more

If you are planning a road trip this summer, it’s important to remember that you shouldn’t just put gas in your car and go, says the non-profit Car Care Council. A pre-trip vehicle check can determine how road-ready your vehicle is so you can take steps to have any problems fixed before heading out for vacation. Before you hit the road, the Car Care Council recommends a vehicle check to help avoid the inconvenience, potential safety hazards and unplanned expense of breaking down miles away from home. Check filters and fluids, including engine oil, antifreeze/coolant, windshield w ... read more