10 New Year’s Resolutions to Improve Safe Driving

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety reported that traffic fatalities in Minnesota rose 14% in the year 2015. Although 2016’s numbers aren’t out yet, you can bet that they didn’t go down to zero. Simple changes in the way you drive can make a huge difference - maybe even save a life.

Next to drunk driving, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of fatalities in traffic crashes.  This year, resolve to make the roads safe for yourself and everyone else around you. We gathered our top 10 safe driving new years resolution ideas in hopes that everyone will make an effort to lower the total number of traffic crashes this year!

1. Never Drink and Drive. Being the leading cause of fatalities, it is most important to always remember this. It may be heard a lot but it surely needs to be said more often. Make a plan, call a cab, or stay home when consuming alcohol.
2. Make sure you are well rested before getting behind the wheel. Tired driving is distracted driving and isn’t recognized as much as it should be.
3. Leave enough room in front of the car. Especially during the winter months, you never know how long it will take you to stop. Make sure you’re slowing down early enough to avoid any potential collisions.
4. Obey the speed limit. Driving too fast causes drivers to lose control over their vehicles. Being a little late to wherever you are going is not as important as your life.
5. Pay attention to the weather and terrain. Rain, snow, sleet and hail can be dangerous on the roads. Know how to drive in every condition and make sure you have a vehicle that can handle the unpredictable Minnesota weather.
6. Stop at that light. Yellow means slow down, not speed up! The fine for running a red light in Minnesota is $128. Smashing into a car that has the right of way will cost you much more.
7. Focus, focus, focus! Don’t multitask while you are driving - no eating, no applying make-up, and absolutely no cell phone! Your main focus is the road and protecting yourself and the people around you.
8. Give yourself enough time to reach your destination. Start leaving a little earlier for work in the morning so you aren’t rushing on the roads. Allow yourself plenty of time for train delays, accidents, construction or traffic to ensure you are calm and focused behind the wheel.
9. Wear Your seatbelt. According to the CDC, seat belts cut the risk of death in an automobile accident in half. You might not like to wear it, they may be uncomfortable at times, but be sure to ALWAYS buckle your seat belt!
10. Keep Your vehicle safe. Staying up-to-date on your car’s maintenance will not only ensure a longer lasting car but also keep you safe in the process. Check out our service center to get your vehicle scheduled for a maintenance inspection to safeguard your driving this year.

Driving a car is a privilege for all ages. It’s fun and it makes travel more convenient, but it can also be dangerous. Resolve to make your driving habits safer this year. Which resolution will you set for yourself?

The Five Best Vehicles for Winter Driving in Minnesota

Imagine you wake up in the morning and see a fresh 6 inches of snow on the ground. What’s the first thing that goes through your head? Are you thinking about the longer route you’ll need to take to work to avoid sliding down a hill? Are you changing your breakfast plans to accommodate the now longer commute? Are you sending an email to your boss saying you might be a little late this morning? These are all signs that you might need a more Minnesota-friendly vehicle.

Living in Minnesota means drivers need a car that can factor in heavy snowfalls, icy conditions, and treacherous Midwest winters. Don’t let the weather dictate how you travel; conquer the winter with a new ride! Look below for our top five vehicles to take out on the road this winter:

The Dodge Grand Caravan

The Dodge Grand Caravan is consistently ranked at the top of vehicles that drive well in winter. With a low center of gravity, this sturdily-built van will provide you with exceptional control over icy roads. With a spacious interior, the Dodge Caravan is able to fit a large variety of gear ranging from outdoor snow gear, potluck fixings, and Holiday presents.

The Cadillac CTS

This five-passenger sporty sedan ranks high on the list of safety so consistently that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Cadillac CTS a five-star overall crash test rating. This modern and mid-size luxury car has three drive modes and optional all-wheel drive that can better grip unpredictable and icy roads.  

The Ford Fusion

Modern and sharp, the Ford Fusion is a reliable sedan that offers both style and substance.

The newest models of the Ford Fusion offer high-tech options, sophisticated interiors, and ample room to maneuver. The safety features of this vehicle will provide you with peace of mind, including rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and active park assist.

The Chevy Tahoe

For an SUV that has plenty of clearance over snow, consider the Chevy Tahoe. This vehicle is capable of four-wheel drive, excellent fuel efficiency, and superb traction control. Newer models of this vehicle have mastered the ability to maximize fuel efficiency while still providing control and power.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee drives exceptionally well in winter conditions, even over black ice and loosely-packed snow. With newer models boasting eco-diesel engines and eight-speed automatic transmission, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is both fuel-efficient and cost-friendly. This rugged but stylish ride is great for all seasons.

If you are searching for a vehicle this season, consider which factors are most important to you.

Options are abundant, such as four-wheel drive, traction control, antilock brakes, heated steering and heated front seats, rear window defroster and wipers, and stability control. Whichever options you choose, you won’t have to fret over a little snow anymore.  

For assistance in your search for the perfect winter vehicle, visit us at Kuehn Motors.

Choosing a Vehicle for Your Expanding Family

In the market for a new car for your growing family? It can be overwhelming trying to fit your family’s needs with what the market has to offer, but the search isn’t impossible. Here are a few important things to consider as you search for the perfect car for your expanding family.

Safety

For anyone who’s in the market for a car, the number one sought-after feature across the board is safety. Thankfully, many cars come standard with the most up-to-date safety features, but some of the features to be on the lookout for include:

• Front and side airbags to help in the event of an accident
• Anti-lock brakes with brake assist to help slow down the car when they detect sudden braking
• Automatic braking to slow your car down in the event of a collision
• Integrated child safety harnesses which can easily secure the child seat in a car
• A rear view camera to watch the road when you back out of a space

For the safest family vehicles of 2016, check out these lists for Kelly Blue Book’s Best Safety Rated SUVs and Autotrader.com’s Top 7 Safest SUVs.

Ease of Access

Ease of access can be a forgotten concern when you are in the market for a new car, but it can make a world of difference in your comfort. Sliding doors in a mini-van or SUV will allow you to open your doors and load your car while in cramped spaces. If your family requires car seats, bring one along as you go out car shopping. The car doors should open wide enough to easily move and maneuver a car seat in and out. Another convenient feature that will soon feel like a necessity are doors that you can open automatically with a key fob. This will be an especially helpful feature when you have to juggle groceries, a car seat, and kids.

Size and storage

You want a vehicle that can not only accommodate your family and their possessions but one that offers flexibility. Do you need a large van to accommodate a big family with enough room to carpool a hockey team? Or would you prefer a spacious yet compact car for easier maneuverability?

Consider how much room your family will need for regular storage, including groceries, strollers, musical instruments, bikes, and more. Do you need room for car seats for the baby or sports equipment for your teen athlete - or both? Think about whether your family will use a vehicle for big excursions like camping trips and long road trips or if you are likely to need a more compact vehicle for life in the city.

Durability and upkeep

Simply put, cars are a big investment. You want to find a vehicle that can withstand years of wear and tear. In your search, consider car maintenance and family maintenance.

Car maintenance is the regular upkeep to keep your vehicle running safely and at its peak performance. Ask yourself, will this vehicle require more than regular car maintenance and checkups? How much of the regular maintenance will be covered by warranty? In the case of used cars, what is in the history report?

Family maintenance includes the steps you take to keep your car clean and good shape. Consider searching for easily cleaned or stain-resistant seat covers, removable floor mats, removable cup holder liners, or storage compartments for cleaning supplies.

With a list of your family’s priorities, you can successfully set out on a search for the perfect vehicle for your family. Of course, the friendly staff at Kuehn Motors are always available to assist you. So get your list ready and stop into Kuehn to begin your search!

Tips for Buying a Teen Their First Car

Image by State Farm via Flickr

They’ve been looking forward to it for years, and you’ve been dreading it since they were born, but it’s time for your teenager to get their first car. There are many things to consider when buying a teenager their first car. Should you buy new or used? Who will pay for it? Where should you go for the best insurance deals? Try not to panic. The tips below will help make this rite of passage a safe and happy one for the entire family.

Assign Responsibilities

The first decision you need to make with your teen is, who’s going to pay for it. Many parents believe that paying for their own car will make a teen appreciate it more, and others believe their teen is working hard enough that a car can be a reward - and a privilege. Once you decide and make a plan, go over expectations and responsibilities. For example, 12 months with no accidents or tickets could be a long-term goal. It’s up to you if you want to give a reward or punishment if the goals are met or not. Just remember to emphasize safety and responsibility from the start.

Keep in mind that many insurance companies offer discounts for good students. You can use that as an incentive to maintain a good GPA and save yourself some money. You’ll also need to decide . Either the car itself, gas and/or the insurance. If they’re the expenses that your teen is responsible for, such as insurance, maintenance, and gas. Generally, teens are more likely to follow the rules if the car’s costs come from their own pocket, but teens can’t afford to pay all the expenses of owning a vehicle. Assigning them some of the responsibility is a good way to prepare them for adulthood.

Image by State Farm via Flickr

Find The Right Car

Midsize sedans tend to be the safest since more mass means more protection. Selecting a vehicle with a small engine makes it harder to speed as well. Also, make sure to search for good deals online. Consumer reports publish an annual used-car guide that is a useful resource available online. If you are able to afford it, look for cars that are certified pre-owned and that are two or three years old. They cost a little bit more but have a limited warranty and better financial and safety ratings. Try to choose a car that scores at least four stars out of five on government crash tests, making sure safety is your number one priority.

Inform Your Teen

Car accidents are the leading cause of death for American teens. It is important to lay down the rules of the road; always wear your seatbelt, drinking is forbidden, texting is not allowed,etc. The internet is full of tragic stories about distracted driving. Talking about these issues will help them understand that driving isn’t a game, that it’s serious and they not only hold their own lives in their hands when driving but everyone they share the road with.

There are several insurance companies that offer free cameras to place in your teen’s car when they begin driving and various apps to download or software to install. Your teen may not like this and think it’s an invasion of privacy, but it’s an excellent tool that can help you rest easier and show them what they’re doing wrong so they can avoid it in the future.

Like old age and taxes, teenagers driving is certain. It can be one of the most nerve-wracking and stressful time, but you have the power to make the transition as painless as possible - especially if you take your teen into Kuehn Motors to shop for their first car. And remember, it’s not all bad - you finally have your own “personal assistant” to send on those errands you’d rather not do!

Avoiding Winter Weather Mayhem

Although winter hasn’t officially hit yet, it is creeping ever closer. Each year there are nearly 1.5 million vehicle accidents that are associated with the poor weather conditions - a statistic that is very preventable, just by being a prepared and knowledgeable winter weather driver. Here are five tips for being a safer winter driver to help you prepare before the snow flies:

1. Do not use cruise control while driving on slippery or wet surfaces. This will only slow the reaction time if you come into a situation where you need to take control of the vehicle.

2. Keep your gas tank at least half full. This way if you are in an accident you can keep warm while waiting for help. Keeping half of your tank full will also help prevent your car pipes from freezing.

3. Whenever possible, let your engine and heater run enough to remove the chill. Waiting in the driveway for your car to heat up may seem like a waste of gasoline, but this will help conserve gas while on the road and prevent any damage to your vehicle.

4. Check that your windshield wipers are in proper working order. Wipers with rubber blades will help prevent ice from forming and allow for proper usage in winter weather.

5. Know your car! Every car handles differently in winter weather. You should know what your car can and cannot handle in the snow. Know if your car has front wheel, rear wheel, or four wheel drive and make sure you understand how it handles in the winter weather.

The best way to prepare for winter driving is to educate yourself. Knowing what to pay attention to when winter approaches helps to avoid those nasty winter accidents. If you have any other questions about winter driving, check out our website at kuehnmotors.com.

Choosing Tires for the Right Season

Winter is getting closer, and that means snow and ice will be on the roads. It’s important to ask yourself whether or not you have the right tires to get you through the season. There are three different types of tires: winter, summer, and all-season.

Winter Tires

Winter tires are great for the same season they are named. They can be easily identified by the deep, jagged grooves and squared off shoulders. However, the most striking difference is something you can’t see with the naked eye. Winter tires use a special rubber compound that does not harden as the temperature gets colder, making the grip on snow and ice much better than other tire options.

This may sound like everyone should purchase some winter tires and throw them on their vehicle, but there are actually some drawbacks that will make you think twice. The price of the better grip on the roads is that you will have poorer handling, and stopping distances will be increased. Your tires will also wear more quickly, and will cost more as you must replace them more frequently. Cars.com recommends that if you are generally driving on roads that are plowed and dried, winter tires are probably not for you.

           

Summer Tires

In contrast to winter tires, summer tires have shallow grooves that seek to maximize contact with the pavement. On the other hand, summer tires also use a softer compound which seeks to increase contact with the road surface as well. However, this does not mean the compounds are the same. Winter tires go soft in the cold but are too soft when it is warm. Summer tires are soft in the heat but become hard and stiff in more frigid temperatures. The maximization of contact with the pavement allows summer tires to have great handling and high grip. Once again, these benefits come with trade-offs. Summer tires will wear more quickly than all-season tires, and can also be very noisy at times.

All-Season Tires

All-season tires sound like they might be the best of both worlds. However, this is not necessarily the case. As Cars.com states, “They do everything reasonably well though they excel at nothing in particular.” The main benefits of all-season tires are that they aren’t as noisy in the summer and they are up to the challenge of snow and ice in the winter. An added benefit is that they last longer than single season tires, which saves you some money because you won’t have to replace the tires as often.

What Tires Should You Use?

If you’re buying tires, Edmunds.com has two guidelines they suggest you follow. The first is to know what your needs are and the conditions you drive in. If winter is approaching and you live in the country where the roads are often unplowed, winter tires may be a good idea for you. The second is to find a source that you know is knowledgeable and trustworthy to recommend which tires may be best for you.

Basically, you should do your own research on tire types as well as tire dealers, and narrow down some of your options, and know your needs. Once you have that information, a dealer can help you make sure you have the right tires for the right season. For more tire and car maintenance tips in an season, head over to our Facebook page.

Trick-or-Treat Safely This Halloween

It’s that time of year again when the streets are filled with sparkly fairy wings, Spider-Man masks and candy is on the dinner menu. As Minnesotans, we prepare for cold weather when finding a costume and cross our fingers that we don’t have a repeat of the blizzard of ‘91. Besides the weather, there are other things to keep in mind when trick-or-treating with your little Cinderella or Scooby-Doo.

Before Heading Out:

Kids can be stubborn when it comes to costumes, but try to compromise with a few things to keep them safe. If their costume involves a face mask, be sure they are able to see clearly through the eye holes. If they cannot, try using face paint instead.

Remind them of the rules of the streets such as looking both ways before crossing. There will be tons of other children out trick-or-treating and it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. It’s best to let them know to never leave your side.

Photo by George Rulz via Flickr

While Trick-or-Treating:

Wearing shoes that fit well is incredibly important. First, they need to keep you warm and second; they need to be comfortable enough to last all night. It will be tempting for children to run from house to house, but you should always walk. The middle of the road is not where you want to spend your time, even if it is a small neighborhood. Stick to sidewalks or on the edge of the street.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, twice as many kids are hit by a car while walking on Halloween than any other day of the year. These tips are important to follow when keeping you and your children safe on Halloween.

Also, bring a flashlight to help you see, and to help others see you. Make sure to only enter a home if you know who they are and only trick-or-treat in well-lit homes. It’s a good idea to avoid dark homes.

Once You’re Home:

It’s important that you check the candy your children have received. Make sure they only eat the factory-wrapped treats and avoiding homemade items. It’s also good to make sure they are eating the candy in moderation. Too much at once isn’t healthy for anyone.

It can make you a little nervous with all these things to worry about, but there’s one more thing you should be sure to do... HAVE FUN! Take tons of pictures and enjoy your family night on this wonderful holiday.

The Best Minnesota Fall Colors Road Trips

As summer comes to an end, the temperatures slowly become cool again. Some people dread thinking about the upcoming colder months and the sandals they will soon have to give up. Before rummaging through your closet for snow boots and a winter coat, think about taking a few more road trips before the snow flies. Minnesota is known for its abundance of lakes and outdoor beauty, so why not take a road trip to discover perhaps the most beautiful season in Minnesota? Here are four of the best places to see fall colors in Minnesota:

Mississippi River Bluffs | Winona, MN

The abundance of bluffs along the Mississippi River makes for great views. Take a hike up the 85-foot Sugar Loaf Bluff in Winona to admire the beautiful fall colors from above.

St. Croix River | Stillwater, MN

To get the full-color spectrum, consider visiting Stillwater along the St. Croix River. Enjoy paddlewheel river cruises, local wineries, breweries and fall festivals. If you can’t get enough of the fall colors there, consider taking a cruise along the river; there’s more than 165 miles of fall foliage!

Sawtooth Mountains | Lutsen, MN

Nothing compares to the heights you can reach in Minnesota than the Sawtooth Mountains. Enjoy the fall colors from top to bottom on the Alpine Slide or take a ride on the Mountain Tram to glide along the treetops.

Chain of Lakes | Minneapolis, MN

The Chain of Lakes - Lake Harriet, Lake Calhoun, Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake - provides miles of paved paths that link the lakes together. Walk, bike or skate around the lakes for an idyllic inner-city fall backdrop.

With the landscape we have in Minnesota, there are plenty of excellent locations to watch the changing colors not included on this list. Have a favorite? Let us know in the comments!

Care for Your Vehicle Year Round

With every season change, it is common to perform different maintenance checks  to keep your house running well. You clean and store away your patio furniture in the fall. You check the fireplace to make sure it runs for cold winter nights. You spring clean and declutter your home to start anew in the spring. What steps can you take to take care of your vehicle so it runs just as well as your home year round? Stay on top of general and seasonal maintenance with the following tips:

General Care

Perform regularly scheduled maintenance and lubrication checks using the manufacturer's recommended care. No single step will help your engine last year-round more than regular oil and filter changes. Change out and refill all other fluids that are necessary with the recommended type and viscosity. Flush the cooling system and change coolant once a year to prevent corrosion and residue from building up. To keep the exterior surface of your car in good shape, wash it regularly and apply a coat of wax every six months. Inspect and clean your tires, brakes, and wheel bearings to prevent any potential damage. To protect the interior, keep your car free of excess trash and dust.  Considering keeping a trash bag and quick wipes to clean spills immediately. Wipe and vacuum down your seats and mats to keep your car clean and smelling nice. For specific part-by-part care, check out the Car Bible.

Image courtesy of Bob n Renee on Flickr

Seasonal Care

If you live in an area with extreme seasonal differences like the Midwest, you understand that both summer and winter can wreak havoc on your vehicle. As a car owner, you understand that your car needs different care depending on the season.

For spring and summer care, start by fixing all the damage the winter season has done to your car. Get a detailed car wash and wax to prevent rust and body damage. This will loosen any gunk that has accumulated on your car throughout the winter, both cleaning the underside of your car and possibly revealing any potential problems that escaped your attention through the season. If you have seasonal tire sets, switch back to your summer set for better fuel efficiency and a smoother journey.

To prepare for the deep heat of summer, service your air conditioning and perform a coolant check to protect your engine from heat. Remember, heat can do as much damage to a battery as frigid temps can. Check for signs that your battery needs to be looked over, like a bulging or cracked battery case or corrosion buildup on wire connections. Lastly, change your air filter. No doubt it has clogged up with various leaf and plant debris, dirt, sludge, and road salt. A dirty air filter will diminish the productivity of your car and lower your fuel efficiency by as much as 10%.

For autumn and winter months, you want to prepare your vehicle to handle snow, ice, and extreme temperatures. The quality of your tires and battery are especially essential this season. Switch to your winter tire set for better traction and check to see that your battery is up to quality. Check that your heating system and oil filter are running smoothly and that all of your fluid levels are sufficient. Especially important, check your brake system, shocks, and struts, and replace them sooner rather than later because you certainly don’t want to be stranded in a snowbank.

Much of your yearly and seasonal car maintenance is to keep your car running well for whatever trip or journey you choose to embark on, but regular car maintenance and care can prevent dangerous accidents and save you thousands of dollars in damage repair. Nothing will let you enjoy a last-minute road trip more than being able to set off in a beautiful, well-maintained car.