Photo credit: Alex Jumper Most people feel completely safe while driving their cars. Whether they are going across town or across the country, they are in their own world while in their automobile. The sad truth is, driving a car can make you a target for some crimes. We will give you some expert tips that will help you remain safe while driving. Problem - Automatic Door Locks Most cars come with automatic door locks. Drivers feel they are safe because their car locks the doors for them. Check your manual to see if you have options to set the door locks. Some people set their door locks to open when the car is shifted in “Park.” So, while you are sitting in your car, getting your cell phone, and your handbag, you are in an unlocked car and you are distracted. People who prey on … [Read more...]
4 Defensive Driving Tips for the New Teen Driver
As a parent of a new driver, you tense up every time your child gets behind the wheel. There are an estimated 37.2 million injury-related emergency room visits each year according to the CDC, and you pray your child isn't one of them. You trust them and their newfound freedom, but you know how dangerous the roads can be. Rather than sheltering your child, or stressing every time they take the car, you can teach them the skills they need to be defensive drivers. Defensive driving can be the deciding difference between a life or death situation on the road, and it's imperative that your children have these skills. Here are a few defensive driving tips for your children to ensure that they stay safe and you can relax. Stay Focused Even though it may not always feel like it, driving is a … [Read more...]
Teaching Your Teen To Drive In The Snow: Tips And Tricks
Handing the keys over to your teenager is always nerve-wracking. Your mind races as you imagine your child on the road and hope that you have taught them enough to drive safely. But this worry can be even worse during the winter, when teaching your teen to drive is especially risky. "Temperatures are dropping, and the chillier weather often brings freezing rain, ice and snow," writes Jessica Van Amburg in Family Circle. "While you may be a pro at handling icy roads, younger drivers can be caught off guard by the season's challenges." Fortunately, by teaching your child the right skills and emergency preparedness procedures, you can help ensure their safety on the road. Teaching The Basics Once you begin working with your teen on winter safety, it's important to start with the … [Read more...]
2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring
The 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring is a head turner. Did I mention that it is also family car? Source: Victoria Mason Yes! The Mazda6 is a four door sedan that offers style, comfort and a safe ride all in one without compromising on looks. The arrival of the Mazda6 Grand Touring came on another cold winter day. A year ago I reviewed the 2016 Mazda6 and got the same reactions from people, "What a hot car! What is it?" The same goes for the 2017 model. That's because this year the Mazda6 remains unchanged on the exterior with some small changes inside and under the hood. It's the little things, right? What's New The biggest change is that the Mazda6 has Skyactiv-G which means that the car has better steering response. When I realized this and felt it I thought, "Oh, this is so … [Read more...]
2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4WD
Introducing the Nissan Pathfinder for 2017. Source: Victoria Mason This week we have the chance to take a look at a car that I hold near and dear to my heart. The Nissan Pathfinder. I own a 2005 myself. Her name is Chloe and she is our one and only family car. We bought her a few months before our first baby was born and this week that girl turns eleven. The Pathfinder is still going strong each day and I still love her like I did on day one. Chloe has undergone a few changes by me over the years and the 2017 Pathfinder is no different. My 2005 Silver Pathfinder and the 2017 Pathfinder in Caspian Blue. Then and Now What's new for 2017 is a more rugged and powerful Pathfinder. After a big redesign a few years ago that created a crossover out of the truck-like SUV … [Read more...]
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4×4
May I introduce the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4x4. The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4x4. Gorgeous and ready for the holidays. Source: Victoria Mason I am always a little sad when I come upon my last vehicle review of the year. However, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 did not disappoint me. I was impressed with its interior space and design right from the start as well as its rugged but still refined exterior. As soon as I started posting about it on my social media channels the questions began rolling in. I was sad to give it up, especially when it meant saying good-bye to the heated steering wheel and seats during one of the coldest days of 2016. Ruggedness and Refinement Through and Through You will probably keep reading about those two 'r' words throughout this … [Read more...]
Is Your Car Ready for Winter?
Did you know that your tires are just like your shoes? It's true! You wouldn't wear flip flops or sandals in the snow, right? So why should your car be in the wrong attire? Tires follow the seasons too. Just like your shoes you need to have the right tires on your car for different times of the year. Is your car ready for winter? Michelin supplied an easy break down to find out which tire type is best for your vehicle regardless of the temperatures. Remember, when the temps dip below 30 your tire pressure light might go off. Just use your tire gauge and manual to find out where the tires need to be and fill them with air when you stop to get gas. It's easier than you think. Don't believe it? Watch this hockey puck demonstration that shows how long it takes certain tire … [Read more...]
2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD
The 2016 Mazda CX-9, another year and a very different review. Mazda CX-9 in Sonic Silver Metallic. Source: Victoria Mason At the annual WAPA Rally in October the Mazda CX-9 was my first drive of the day. I always like to start the event off with a brand I feel comfortable with and car that doesn't offer a ton of surprises. While I may know Mazda, the 2016 CX-9 offered plenty of surprises the minute I opened the driver's side door. On the Outside All new for 2016, the Mazda CX-9 is great to look at and offers families a lot in a 7-passenger vehicle. With 20-inch alloy wheels (standard in the Signature trim), heated mirrors, rain-sensing wipers and a power open/close rear lift-gate you find convenience and ease that is hard to beat. Features like rearview cameras,a lane-keep … [Read more...]
2017 Hyundai Santa Fe LTD ULT AWD
Meet the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe LTD ULT AWD. Source: Victoria Mason There is so much to love in this latest vehicle from Hyundai and I feel like I can't say it enough, but when it comes to getting more for your money Hyundai hits it out of the park. Why? Check this out: Source: Victoria Mason An aerial shot comes first. Then the driver can pick the angle as they navigate a space. It is absolutely freeing to have this technology. That's the 8-inch touchscreen with the multi-view camera system that offers 360-degree view. I have a long, downhill, curvy driveway that I usually do a 360 turn in to get out of when I'm in my own SUV. With the multi-view camera I can navigate my way out much faster and park the Santa Fe anywhere with little effort or sweating. Other … [Read more...]
WAPA Rally 2016 Favorites
Ah, the WAPA Rally. Quite possibly my favorite event of the year with this group. If you are new here, WAPA stands for Washington Automotive Press Association, and I am a member. Every October we gather together to spend the day driving cars from many automotive makers and it is ridiculously fun and informative. This year the WAPA Rally was no exception as it was held in Kent Island, Maryland. Just off the Bay Bridge the views were stunning and provided gorgeous backdrops for car photos and plenty of scenic drives. What did I love at this year's WAPA Rally? Nissan Rogue Source: WAPA Rally: John Soule I love the 'Magneto Black' paint on the 2016 Nissan Rogue. Makes me feel ready for Star Wars story 'Rogue One' on December 16. Way more storage space than I anticipated … [Read more...]