So you have decided to buy a new car, and have done your research on the internet, and found a few models that tick all the boxes. Before you make your final decision, be sure to take each car you're considering for a test drive. Remember that there are certain things that you will only find out once you drive the car. In order to save time, make an appointment for a test drive ahead of time. Car dealers have limited space available, and the specific model you are looking for might not be on the premises or might be parked in the showroom. Also, in order to prevent you from making rash decisions or being cornered by a persistent salesman, line up test drives one after another. This will also make comparisons between the different models easier, as everything will still be fresh in your mind. more Here are a few other things to remember when taking a car for a test drive. The Parked-Car Tests Here are a few things to check before you start the car: Is the front seat easy to access and does it give you adequate support? This might not be so important for short commutes, but during long trips, this could make all the difference. Are the back seats easily accessible, and do they provide ample leg and headroom? If it's a requirement, will you be able to easily fit in a baby seat? Does the cargo area provide the space you need? Do seats fold or move easily? Can you comfortably reach all the controls? How Does the Car Drive? Here are a few things to focus on once you are on the road: How is the visibility? Can you see easily over the steering wheel, and how are those blind spots? How is the suspension? Do you feel the bumps and rough patches on the road, or is it a smooth ride? Does the car lock up or skid when you brake and is the steering responsive? Is the car powerful enough to suit your needs, and how is the acceleration? Test the safety features available in the car, such as hill start assist, or lane-keep assist. Decide on Your Own Route The salesperson might have a normal, easy route that he uses for test drives. Do not agree to this. Ensure that you do the test drive on the terrain and roads that you normally drive to see whether the car is suitable. Do you regularly drive long distances on the highway or often drive on dusty roads or rough terrain? Do you need to park your car in tight spaces, or do you regularly have to start it on an incline? Choose a route that will give you the info you need. After you have taken the car for a test drive, refrain from buying on impulse. Sleep on it. The car will still be available tomorrow! If you are thinking of taking a Ford for a test drive, drop by The Ford Store Morgan Hill. They might just have the car that is perfect for you. Photo by DigitalRalph | Licensed under cc BY 2.0
Here's a scene many of us know all too well: you're on vacation driving on uncharted roads when the engine makes a worrisome clunking sound. Before you know it, you're turning on the hazard lights and praying for a strong cell phone signal. Believe it or not, if you're prepared, have the right supplies with you, and know when to call for help, what may seem to put an end to your traveling fun can be just a small bump along the way. Consider some simple ways to ensure that your road trip is fun and worry-free! Preventatively Assess Your Vehicle Before Your Trip Add to your vacation to-do list a quick trip to the service station to have your car looked over before you set out. There is no better way to avoid a mishap than making sure that all repairs have been taken care of before you head out. Something as simple as an oil change and quick vehicle check can identify any possible roadblocks and put your mind at ease. more You may want to also consider a roadside assistance program that can provide on-site assistance for everything from keys locked in the car to a dead battery and more. Safely Pull Over to the Side of the Road If your vehicle is in distress, it is important to pull out of traffic for your safety, as well as that of other drivers. If you are unable to pull the car off of the road, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you are encountering issues. Take a note of your car's location and any nearby landmarks so that you can communicate your coordinates to roadside assistance or a towing company if necessary. Create an Emergency Roadside Kit As Benjamin Franklin said, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." Head off a roadside catastrophe by preparing an emergency roadside kit. In many cases, just a few simple items can get you up and running again quickly, such as: Basic tools including a screwdriver, duct tape, pliers, and wrenches. Jumper cables in the event of a dead battery. Flares or triangle reflectors to warn approaching cars that you are stopped. A first aid kit in case of a minor cut or scrape (leave more serious injuries for professionals). Flashlight with extra batteries for more visibility during a nighttime incident. Tire pressure gauge and a tire puncture repair kit. Water and nonperishable snacks in the event of a long wait for assistance. Before heading out on a vacation road trip, double-check your kit to make sure that it is complete and up to date — we've all reached in for an "emergency" granola bar on a busy day. Taking your car on a vacation can be a wonderful way to explore important landscapes and landmarks while spending quality family time together. Make the most of these special times together with a few easy preparations that can keep you comfortable and safe in the event of an unforeseen emergency. Photo by Robert Couse-Baker | Licensed under cc BY 2.0
If you're looking for something fun to do in San Jose, California, make a plan to root for the home team at a Sharks game. The San Jose Sharks play in the National Hockey League at SAP Center. Along with the games, the team hosts various events throughout the season to get fans excited and draw bigger crowds. Check out these fun events to build team spirit and enjoy time with your loved ones. Fan Appreciation Night On April 7, the San Jose Sharks will celebrate their appreciation for the fans at this annual event. The game is against the Minnesota Wild, and everyone who attends will receive a bobblehead of Burns and Thornton, two of the top players on the Sharks. Display your bobblehead with pride to show how true of a fan you are when you attend this exciting matchup. Tickets are available starting at $49. more Summertime Social Events During the summer months, the Sharks host several social events to connect with their fans and create a fun atmosphere where fellow fans can meet one another. Last year, some of these social events included a Paint Night, where those in attendance could express their creativity and paint a masterpiece, and a golf tournament at the local Cinnabar Hills Golf Course. The Bowlero event was another popular option for Sharks fans, in which they came together to bowl for a good cause. Keep an eye out for upcoming social events this summer and register to participate if you want to take the opportunity to get to know other Sharks fans. Business Events The San Jose Sharks also have a strong presence in the business community, hosting several events that helped the team form relationships with businesspeople throughout the area. These events can also help the Sharks generate sponsorships, which help to keep ticket prices affordable and allow the team to continue to host these types of events. In mid-August, the team hosted an event at a local driving range. A wine tasting event was another fun business opportunity, which took place in late September. Ticket Packs If you're looking for a fun and affordable family day out, check out the available family ticket packs. You can score tickets to a hockey game, along with hot dogs, chips, and drinks for four people, available at a more reasonable price than if you purchased everything separately. Another ticket pack option is the Chum pack, which gets you a beer for every ticket you buy. For certain games, the team will also give away gear and swag to help fans get decked out and root on the Sharks. For example, when the Sharks play the St. Louis Blues in March, tickets purchased through the Earthquakes Night package will include two themed scarves: one for the Sharks and one for the local MLS team, the Earthquakes. With so many fun events happening at SAP Center, San Jose Sharks fans will love participating and cheering for their favorite hockey team. Reserve your tickets to take part in the upcoming events. Photo by pointnshoot | Licensed under CC BY 2.0
