# How to Take Care of Your Car Tires   
It may be unfortunate, but the simple truth is that your vehicle requires upkeep. Routine maintenance is unavoidable, but there are some maintenance tips for your tires that you can keep in mind to help ensure your need for tire service or replacement is limited. Check out our video below to learn helpful tips that will have you spending less time in the service lane and more time enjoying your vehicle. And of course, if you have any questions, you can always feel free to contact us at American Car Center, or view other videos on our YouTube page. 




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It may be unfortunate, but the simple truth is that your vehicle requires upkeep. Routine maintenance is unavoidable, but there are some maintenance tips for your tires that you can keep in mind to help ensure your need for tire service or replacement is limited.



Maintenance tips for your tires

## Checklist of tire services you can perform to make them last longer


Below is a quick to-do list to get better tire performance. Tire performance is very important for optimal fuel economy ratings and saving money on fuel. Well-cared-for tires can also provide better traction and braking responsiveness.

### This is what you can do to get the best possible use out of your tires:

1. **Check tire inflation once a month.** You can purchase inexpensive handheld devices to store in your vehicle, so they’re close by. Other vehicles have their own Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems. Either way, be sure to keep your tires properly inflated.
2. **Get your tires balanced when you buy new ones**. Also, have them balanced if the vehicle vibrates when you drive.
3. **Have your tires checked if you notice any of the following**: uneven wear and tear, pulling to one side when you drive or unexplained changes to your vehicle’s handling.
4. **Rotate tires every 5,000 or 6,000 miles.** That’s about twice a year for the average driver.
5. **Visually inspect your tires regularly.** Things to look for include cracks and bulges. Remove any debris from your tires.



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> Tire performance is very important for optimal fuel economy ratings and saving money on fuel. 
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Tires are car parts that take the brunt of your driving. Brakes definitely take a lot of force, but only while you are stopping. Whenever your car is moving, the tires are constantly dealing with the friction of the road. Even while standing still, your tires are supporting the weight of your vehicle

Tips and tricks for keeping your tires in good shape

## Ten key car terms that you should learn before getting a car

Make: The make of your vehicle is just another way of saying the brand or the automaker. In terms of car classification, it’s a broad category that can then be narrowed down into specific models and trim levels. Some examples of vehicle make include Audi, Buick, Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford. We offer a variety of makes here at American Car Center.  
Model: The model of your car denotes the specific lineup that your car comes from. Often, you’ll hear a car referenced by its make and model, like in Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang, or Nissan Rogue. In every case, the make is listed before the model. So, to be clear, the models in those examples are the Corvette, Mustang, and Rogue. A similar term, model year, refers to the year the model was produced.  
Trim level: The trim level takes things one step further up the pyramid. If the make is the broadest category at the base of the pyramid, then the trim level is the smallest point at the top. People often ignore the trim level when they tell you what type of car they have, but when you come in to buy a car, it’s a good idea to know what you’re getting. That’s because different trim levels start at different prices and can have totally different features. When reading a vehicle’s full title, it will be listed as model year, make, model, and trim level, from left to right. Here’s an example: 2021 Ford Explorer XLT. Often, the trim level is a combination of letters, like in XLT, but sometimes it can be a full word, like Limited or Platinum.  
All-wheel drive: All-wheel drive (AWD) is probably the other most common drive configuration along with FWD. AWD will give you boosted traction. It’s a popular option for off-road drivers.  
Four-wheel drive: Four-wheel drive (4WD) is a lot like AWD in that it supplies extra traction. It can also be used for off-road driving. Really, the only difference is that 4WD can often be turned on and off.  
Rear-wheel drive: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is by far the least common drive configuration. You’ll see it most often on performance and sports cars because it does well for cornering. In this configuration, power is supplied to the rear wheels.  
Automatic transmission: If you’re coming in to get a car, you’ll most likely want an automatic transmission. These are much more common than manual transmissions because they are simply easier to use. This type of transmission will change gears for you as you accelerate.  
Manual transmission: In a manual transmission vehicle, you have to change the gears as you drive. This is also referred to as a stick-shift vehicle, because most of them will have a gear-shift knob for this purpose.  
Package: If you ever see words following the trim level of a vehicle, it might be something like Technology Package or Cold Weather Package. Packages are bundles of features added onto a vehicle during production. All you need to know is that packages can change key features of a vehicle like exterior style, seating, technology, and more, so be sure to ask what features come in a given package.  
Front-wheel drive: It’s important to know which type of drive configuration you want. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is one option. In this configuration, the powertrain supplies power to the front wheels. Benefits include better fuel economy ratings.  
Terms that you should learn before getting a car.  
Make: The make of your vehicle is just another way of saying the brand or the automaker. In terms of car classification, it’s a broad category that can then be narrowed down into specific models and trim levels. Some examples of vehicle make include Audi, Buick, Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford. We offer a variety of makes here at American Car Center.  
Model: The model of your car denotes the specific lineup that your car comes from. Often, you’ll hear a car referenced by its make and model, like in Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang, or Nissan Rogue. In every case, the make is listed before the model. So, to be clear, the models in those examples are the Corvette, Mustang, and Rogue. A similar term, model year, refers to the year the model was produced.  
Trim level: The trim level takes things one step further up the pyramid. If the make is the broadest category at the base of the pyramid, then the trim level is the smallest point at the top. People often ignore the trim level when they tell you what type of car they have, but when you come in to buy a car, it’s a good idea to know what you’re getting. That’s because different trim levels start at different prices and can have totally different features. When reading a vehicle’s full title, it will be listed as model year, make, model, and trim level, from left to right. Here’s an example: 2021 Ford Explorer XLT. Often, the trim level is a combination of letters, like in XLT, but sometimes it can be a full word, like Limited or Platinum.  
All-wheel drive: All-wheel drive (AWD) is probably the other most common drive configuration along with FWD. AWD will give you boosted traction. It’s a popular option for off-road drivers.  
Four-wheel drive: Four-wheel drive (4WD) is a lot like AWD in that it supplies extra traction. It can also be used for off-road driving. Really, the only difference is that 4WD can often be turned on and off.  
Rear-wheel drive: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is by far the least common drive configuration. You’ll see it most often on performance and sports cars because it does well for cornering. In this configuration, power is supplied to the rear wheels.  
Automatic transmission: If you’re coming in to get a car, you’ll most likely want an automatic transmission. These are much more common than manual transmissions because they are simply easier to use. This type of transmission will change gears for you as you accelerate.  
Manual transmission: In a manual transmission vehicle, you have to change the gears as you drive. This is also referred to as a stick-shift vehicle, because most of them will have a gear-shift knob for this purpose.  
Package: If you ever see words following the trim level of a vehicle, it might be something like Technology Package or Cold Weather Package. Packages are bundles of features added onto a vehicle during production. All you need to know is that packages can change key features of a vehicle like exterior style, seating, technology, and more, so be sure to ask what features come in a given package.  
Front-wheel drive: It’s important to know which type of drive configuration you want. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is one option. In this configuration, the powertrain supplies power to the front wheels. Benefits include better fuel economy ratings.


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Quick guide to learning new car lingo.

Is this your first time buying a car? Sometimes, it can feel like there are a million car terms that you’ve never heard of. But don’t worry, you only need to know a few key terms before you go to purchase your next car. In fact, if you can learn the ten car terms below, you’re on pretty good footing. If you ever get confused, feel free to ask a member of our team for help. 

What terms should I know before I buy a car?

In summer, car and trucks are a lot like people – they are happiest when kept cool. A belt or hose failure can cause an overheated engine, the loss of power steering and loss of the electrical charging system, potentially requiring expensive repairs. Thankfully, easy preventive maintenance of hoses and belts can help keep your vehicle’s engine cool under the sun and your summer driving vacation plans on track.

Made of flexible rubber compounds which absorb vibration, hoses are the cooling system’s weakest structural component. Manufactured to hold coolant under pressure, hoses are subjected to the extremes of hot and cold, dirt, oils, acids and sludge. Hoses slowly deteriorate from the inside; a weakened hose may rupture from pressure, heat, or constant flexing. The most susceptible areas of the hose are nearest to clamps where it connects to the engine or radiator.

Simple and minor maintenance can help prevent coolant hose failure:

- Check the white coolant-recovery tank’s markings to confirm correct the fluid level. Also check for white, pink, blue or light green, blue, or pink coolant residue in the engine bay – a sign of leakage.
- When the engine is cool, give the hoses a squeeze near the clamps, feeling for soft spots. A good hose will be firm yet pliable.
- Inspect for visible cracks, nicks, depressions or bulges.
- Look for oil contamination or fraying near the connection points.
- Inspect for parallel cracks in bends, a hardened glossy surface or abrasive damage.
- Flush & replace the coolant according to the owner’s manual as clean coolant will lessen deterioration.

Many of the same things – heat, ozone, oil and abrasion – that damage hoses also harm a vehicle’s belts. Most cars and trucks have one multi-grooved serpentine belt to drive the alternator, water pump, power-steering pump, and air-conditioning compressor. A belt should be changed when it shows signs of excessive wear.

You can help prevent costly repairs from a worn-out belt:

- Inspect the serpentine belt for cracks, fraying, or splits on the top cover.
- Look for signs of excessive glazing on the belt’s sides. Glazed or slick belts can slip, overheat or crack.
- Twist the belt to check for separating layers, cracks, or missing chunks of the grooves on the underside.
- Listen for the sounds of a belt-tension problem: high-pitched whining, chirping and vibration.

Speak to a qualified technician about any cooling issues and always consult your owner’s manual for routine maintenance procedures.

It’s that simple. A quick under-the-hood inspection of your vehicle’s hoses and belts, lends peace-of-mind that your summer driving will be smooth and carefree! 

Visit a conveniently located [American Car Center](https://www.americancarcenter.com/contact-american-car-center) today for exceptional service and let us find for you a great vehicle from our vast [inventory](https://www.americancarcenter.com/used-cars) of late-model, low-mileage cars, trucks and SUVs. We make it easy for hard-working people across the Southeast to drive a high-quality vehicle no matter their credit history.

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In summer, car and trucks are a lot like people – they are happiest when kept cool. A belt or hose failure can cause an overheated engine, the loss of power steering and loss of the electrical charging system, potentially requiring expensive repairs. Thankfully, easy preventive maintenance of hoses and belts can help keep your vehicle’s engine cool under the sun and your summer driving vacation plans on track.

Keep your car cool in hot weather: Inspect your hoses & belts

## Popular tourist destinations in Florida
**Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Merrit Island, FL **

If you like space, then the Kennedy Space Center is a natural addition to your road trip. You’ll learn about NASA missions, NASA heroes, and much more at the complex. Merrit Island is located close to the popular beach Cocoa Beach and an hour from Orlando. 

**Disney and Universal Studios theme parks in Orlando, FL **

Of course, you can’t go wrong with theme parks in Florida. Florida is home to Disney World and Universal Studios, both of which draw tourists from all over the world. Both theme parks are also themed after popular movies from their respective companies. 

### Historical tourist destinations in Florida 
**Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, FL **
If you or your travel buddy like history, then make sure to stop by Fort Myers, where you can tour the estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, which are located side by side. Fort Myers is also known for its historic district, Fort Myers beach, and its parks and reserves, so there is plenty to do for everyone. 

**Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West, FL **

In a similar vein to the estates, you can visit a home owned by Ernest Hemingway in Key West, FL. Of course, Key West is also home to Mallory Square, the Audobon house and gallery, and many other popular attractions

**Beaches and scuba diving attraction in Florida**

Some people visit Floriday for its theme parks and tourist attractions, some visit for its historical appeal, and yet others visit for the nature alone. Surrounding on most sides by oceans, and home to the Everglades, Florida offers a wealth of nature preserves and places to get outdoors. Of course, beaches and scuba diving are some of the most popular options. Be sure to stop at one of the following: 
- [Fort Myers Beach](https://www.fortmyersbeachfl.gov/)
- [Cocoa Beach](https://www.cocoabeach.com/)


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Are you planning a road trip in Florida? There are tourist destinations all across Florida which make it a great place for a road trip. Below you can find some of the best road trip destinations in Florida along with a short description of each. American Car Center, your pre-owned dealership, also has many locations in the state of Florida.  

Fun places to stop on a road trip around Florida

With winter upon us, American Car Center is asking you to be our safety partner by doing your best to keep yourself safe on wintery roads this season. With some planning, you can remain collision free and enjoy the best of your destination. Previously, we summarized preparing your vehicle for snow and ice, now **let’s discuss essential driving guidelines for winter road safety.**

**Wear comfortable clothes** as bulky clothing can restrict your movement, making it harder to check your blind spot. Heavy or wet boots may also hinder proper pedal control.

**Check the weather forecast and road conditions** often so you know what to expect before leaving for your destination.

**Keep a full tank of gas** to help to reduce moisture in the fuel system and to add extra weight.

**Clear ice and snow from your vehicle**, including the roof and lights. Flying ice and snow is dangerous for others on the road. Wait for foggy windows to clear before proceeding.

**Slow down** and drive according to the road conditions around you. Give yourself extra time to arrive safely.

**Pay attention to the road surface**; asphalt should appear grey-white in winter. If it looks black and shiny it could be covered in ice. Shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses freeze sooner than other sections of roadway.

**Give extra space** because stopping on icy roads requires greater distance on which other drivers may be unfamiliar or unpredictable.

**Look out for pedestrians and cyclists** whose own visibly may be lessened by the elements.

**Keep well back of snowplows** and never pass one in operation for sightlines and visibility around them is very poor.

**Avoid cruise control** on slippery roads as it reduces reaction time and vehicle control.

**Steer gently and avoid quick acceleration and hard braking** especially on curves in the road. Sudden moves may lessen your control. When driving uphill try to maintain a constant speed as momentum is helpful.

**Should you skid**, release your brakes and steer in the direction you want to go. Be careful not to steer too far as your vehicle could spin.

Getting about in winter requires patience and composure but following some simple road-tested principles should allow you to get the most out of the frosty time of year. Partner with American Car Center to travel safely this winter – don’t delay, come right away to drive away from one of our convenient locations an outstanding winter-ready car or SUV with a 3-year/30,000-mile limited warranty, oil changes included. **The King of Credit wants to approve you today!**

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With winter upon us, American Car Center is asking you to be our safety partner by doing your best to keep yourself safe on wintery roads this season. With some planning, you can remain collision free and enjoy the best of your destination. Previously, we summarized preparing your vehicle for snow and ice, now **let’s discuss essential driving guidelines for winter road safety.**

American Car Center’s guidelines for safe winter driving

At the end of summer, we should pay closer attention to our surroundings and adjust our driving accordingly for the return of school children, school buses, and parent traffic, especially around school zones.

American Car Center wants to help keep our children safe this school year. Here are some key tips for drivers, parents, and kids for improved safety.

**Safety tips for drivers**

1. Slow down and watch out for kids and be prepared to stop – especially in or near school and residential areas, intersections, and crosswalks.
2. Look for clues such as “Slow Down, Children At Play” signs, school zone signs, safety patrollers, bicycles, and playgrounds.
3. Expect the unexpected – such as kids darting out from between parked cars.
4. Always check for pedestrians when you are backing up and be aware that kids could be present on any side of the vehicle.
5. Let kids out on the side of the car closest to the sidewalk when dropping them off at school.
6. Follow the rules of the road – yield to pedestrians and do not make U-turns, roll through stop signs, or stop in no-stopping zones.
7. Do not pass school buses when their red lights are flashing as children are loading and unloading. Use extra caution in adverse weather conditions.

**Safety tips for parents and kids**

1. Teach your kids to find a safe place to cross the road, such as patrolled or marked crosswalks.
2. Teach them to look all directions and make eye contact with drivers before they cross the street.
3. Make it a rule for kids to stay off their cell phones or electronic devices while crossing the street.
4. Plan a safe route – walk on the sidewalk and consider having your child walk with a friend or parent or join a walking school bus.
5. Teach your kids to look out for parked cars as cars may pull out or start moving when they do not expect it.
6. Make sure your kids wear bright or reflective clothing so they can be seen in the dark or in poor weather. If they ride a bike, make sure they always wear a helmet and clothing with reflective strips. Equip their bike with lights, reflectors, and a bell.

Taking a few simple steps will better protect school children as they return to the classroom. American Car Center extends best wishes to all kids and their parents for a happy and successful school year. 

American Car Center wants to save you time and money on your next lease. Visit one of our modern and conveniently located stores now for a massive selection of reliable late model and low mileage vehicles. Each vehicle comes with a great limited warranty with oil changes included. 

**The King of Credit Wants to Approve You Today! **

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At the end of summer, we should pay closer attention to our surroundings and adjust our driving accordingly for the return of school children, school buses, and parent traffic, especially around school zones.

American Car Center wants to help keep our children safe this school year. Here are some key tips for drivers, parents, and kids for improved safety.

Back to school car safety tips

Modern vehicles are more reliable and durable than ever but for added safety and peace-of-mind there are some easy ways from American Car Center to winterize your ride:

**Change the windshield wipers and refill the wiper fluid.** Working windshield wipers and a solid supply of wiper fluid help to ensure clear sightlines. Replace frayed or worn wipers and top up your wiper fluid tank with a lower-freezing temperature fluid.

**Check the battery.** Cold weather is tough on your vehicle’s battery. Check and clean up areas of corrosion on connections and posts. Consider running a battery load test on batteries more than five years old. 

**Adjust engine oil viscosity.** In the winter, your engine will run more effectively with a thinner engine oil. Check your owner’s manual for information on proper viscosity levels for colder temperatures.

**Check belts and hoses.** Cold temperatures can weaken the belts and hoses that help make your engine run; examine them for cracks and wear and replace worn parts.

**Verify the anti-freeze mixture.** The ratio of anti-freeze to water in your radiator should be about 1:1 to prevent the coolant in your radiator from freezing. To check the composition of your radiator’s fluid, pick-up an inexpensive anti-freeze tester at an auto parts store.

**Examine the four-wheel drive.** Working correctly, Four-wheel drive can provide better traction when driving on snowy and icy roads. Have it examined by a mechanic before winter weather sets in to ensure the system engages smoothly and that transmission and gear fluids are at their correct level.

**Check the tire pressure.** Cold weather causes air pressure in your tires to drop. A properly inflated tire ensures the best traction essential for driving in wintry conditions.

**Stock emergency supplies.** You never know when you will need them so be prepared by having your vehicle ready with emergency supplies, such as, a blanket, new flashlight batteries and booster cables.

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>###### — First and Last Name, Author’s Profession[Share quote](/blog/winterize-your-ride)

**Consider winter tires.** Snow tires are made of a softer rubber than all-season tires which allows them to retain flexibility in the cold and have channels and grooves designed to grip into snow and ice. Winter tires improve safety at temperatures below 44°.

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>>###### — First and Last Name, Author’s Profession[Share quote](/blog/winterize-your-ride)

When the weather is frosty, the roads are likely to be slippery. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination, slow down and keep space between your vehicle and others. Take a few simple steps to winterize your vehicle to increase safety and performance this season. 

![Car Maintanence Tips ACC.jpeg](https://accstrapiprodea2st.blob.core.windows.net/strapi-uploads/assets/Car_Maintanence_Tips_ACC_0b7c15ad02.jpeg)

American Car Center has more than 67 stores conveniently located throughout the Southeast. All locations have an amazing selection of low mileage, late-model vehicles each with a limited powertrain warranty of up to three years or 36,000 miles, oil changes included. 

**We want to Approve You Today!**

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Modern vehicles are more reliable and durable than ever but for added safety and peace-of-mind there are some easy ways from American Car Center to winterize your ride.

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