Month: October 2017

Four Important Trick or Treat Safety Tips

Trick or Treat Safety
Most kids look forward to Halloween all year long. Be sure to make the most of your holiday this year with these trick or treat safety tips.

Most kids look forward to Halloween all year long. The costumes, the candy, the spooky ghost stories—what’s there not to love? Be sure to make the most of your holiday this year with these trick or treat safety tips from Chip Wynn Motors.

Be a Good Pedestrian

You should always practice good traffic and pedestrian laws, but Halloween is a great time to begin teaching these to young children. Stay on sidewalks, only cross at the crosswalks, and be aware of cars.

Check Your Costume

Before your head out for the night, have your kids try on their costumes and walk around the house a little. See that there are no tripping hazards, that masks aren’t too tight, and that the kids feel comfortable.

Stay Together

Never let your kids trick or treat alone. Older kids may be fine going out together as groups of two or more, but use your best judgment. When in doubt, it’s best to send a chaperone along with each group.

Check the Candy

Before your kids dive into their well-earned stash, you should check to make sure that none of the pieces have been tampered with. Take a few minutes to look over the candy for any signs of tears or punctures in the wrappers. Once you’ve ensured that the stash is safe, your kids are free to dig in.

Common Car Sounds and What They Mean

Common Car Sounds
There are several common car sounds that come up when it’s time for a little maintenance. Know what they are so you know what to do when you hear them.

Ever heard a clicking sound coming from under your hood? Or maybe it was a ticking? A cranking? There are several common car sounds that come up when it’s time for a little maintenance. Knowing how to spot them and what they mean could save you time and money.

Your Brakes Cause a Squealing Sound

This indicates that your brake pads have worn down too much and that it’s time to get them replaced.

Accelerations Causes Squealing

In this case, one of your belts is probably loose or needs replaced.

Turning the Wheel Causes a Groan

This might indicate that your power-steering system has a leak, especially when paired with a stiffer steering wheel.

You Feel Vibrations in the Steering Wheel

If this is happening, then it’s time for you to get your wheels aligned.

A Rattling Under the Hood When Idling

Hearing a rattling near the engine might be a sign that the water pump needs replaced.

Ticking Noise Under the Hood

If you’re hearing a clicking or ticker-tape kind of noise under the hood, you’re probably very low on oil and should top your oil off immediately to avoid serious damage.

Have you noticed any of these sounds recently? Bring your car into Chip Wynn Motors for an inspection. The more you can tell us about the noises and sensations you’ve heard, the more we’ll be able to help you get the best service possible!