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Prepare in the Fall, Be Ready in the Winter

The fall is the perfect time to prepare your car for the approaching winter driving season. The cooler fall temperatures serve as an excellent

reminder that the time is now to prepare your car for the winter weather season and its accompanying poor driving conditions. But amazingly, according to the Car Care Council, an estimated 70% of motorists fail to winterize their cars.

 

A little preventive maintenance can reduce the chances of encountering car trouble, saving you from an unpleasant, expensive or even deadly experience. Just like a professional mechanic or auto technician, drivers with even the most limited expertise can perform the same simple steps to protect their vehicles from the ravages of the unforgiving winter season:

 

• Check your tire pressure and tread depth: Use a pressure gauge and the coin test to determine if your tire tread is deep enough to insure good traction. Look for uneven wearing which can be dangerous.

• Check your battery, exhaust system, heater and defroster: Often neglected, make sure the battery is not past its lifespan, and that the terminals are tight and free of corrosion. Hoses and belts should be inspected for cracks. Now is the time to discover if your heater is broken - not when the temperature drops.

• Check your antifreeze: Make sure that 50/50 antifreeze/water mixture is at its proper radiator level. If the coolant is two years old, get it flushed and refilled.

• Change your oil every 3,000 miles: If you live in a colder climate consider using a lighter, “winter weight” oil. Refer to your owner’s manual for guidance.

• Check your windshield wipers and blades: Replace the blades twice a year and make sure you have extra wiper fluid on hand.

• Be sure your 4-wheel drive system and brakes are working properly.

• Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes a flashlight, blanket, jumper cables, clothes, tool kit and even food.

 

Winterizing a car is not a difficult, expensive or time consuming task, but most drivers do not think about seasonal maintenance until they’re stuck on the side of the road with an avoidable vehicle malfunction. Winterizing your car is actually minor vehicle maintenance that more than pays for itself in improved vehicle performance, a lesser chance of vehicle breakdown, and most of all by giving a driver the peace of mind knowing that their car is ready for the possibilities of harsh winter driving conditions.

 

For more car winterizing tips, visit RTM's Car Care Archives.

 

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Autumn Specials at the Finest Western Dude Ranches

The golden leaves of aspens aren’t the first to fall when autumn arrives in the Western mountains. The rates at Rocky Mountain dude ranches take a dip as early as mid-August. When kids return to school, and demand from families’ decreases, member ranches of the Dude Ranchers’ Association offer lower rates, shorter stays, and special weeks. Many ranchers reserve their western retreats for adults only, for time to kick back with no meetings, no schedules, and no worries.

At Southwest Colorado’s Wilderness Trails Ranch where the schedule of activities is same as summers, yet reservations are limited to 25 adults each week up until September 26th. Special weeks during October include “Ride the Colors of Fall Week,” September 27-October 6th, and Durango’s annual “Cowboy Gathering,” October 1st-4^th.

"Cowgirl Up" is an all-inclusive woman's adventure presented in the simple yet elegant style of NW Montana’s Bar W Ranch. A horsemanship clinic for riders of all levels kicks off the getaways September 27th – October 3rd and October 11th – 17th. Girls let their hair down at night with cocktail receptions or a little “two-stepping” at the Blue Moon. Or, they may submit to the ultimate in pampering with spa treatments followed by stargazing from the hot tub.

Idaho’s Red Horse Mountain Ranch brings together unattached men and women September 27- October 3. During Single’s Week, folks can meet others who enjoy outdoor adventure in tranquil surroundings. The remote setting near the eastern shores of Coeur d'Alene Lake is a recreational nirvana for riding, swimming, kayaking and fly-fishing.

Culinary arts are the focus at Alberta’s Homeplace Ranch September 27-October 5, dates for the annual and ever-popular “Taste of Alberta.” All the meals this week feature the ranches own recipes using only Alberta grown and created ingredients, including the Big Rock Beer, Alberta’s finest adult beverage. The foothills of the Rockies locale provide a feast for the spirit while the menu serves up a feast for the body.

Assistance with planning your ideal fall dude ranch adventure is just a click away by going to the DRA website, or by phoning the organization to request a free catalog at 866-399-2339.

For more vacation ideas from RTM, visit our Adventure Travel section.

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The All-New 2009 Audi Q5 – Full of Surprises

By Courtney Caldwell

Belonging to the small SUV segment, which is forecasted to grow dramatically over the next few years, the all-new 2009 Audi Q5 luxury crossover is full of surprises. First off, it stands as best in its class with EPA fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Not bad for a small SUV with the longest wheel base in its segment. That said, it means more interior room for family and friends, and best in its class towing capacity, a whopping 4400 pounds. It also means depending on less fuel more often giving its owner the best of both worlds in comfort, class and eco-consciousness.

 

The clamshell-shaped Q5 was full of surprises on the inside too. Its interior is super comfortable and luxurious as well it should be with a price tag for our ‘premium package’ test model of $48,275. The bare bones version is a mere $37,200 but either way you’re getting top shelf in the world of cars. Audi is about as cool as they come.

 To my delight, the Audi Q5 was loaded with safety features too, something we at Road & Travel Magazine consider top priority in all vehicles especially for women on the road alone. My personal favorite in the Q5 is the voice-based destination input control where all you need to say is ‘I’m hungry’ or ‘I need gas’ or ‘I need coffee’ and the navigation will point to the closest option in the area. There’s no stopping to ask strangers or fears about getting lost in unfamiliar territory. There’s even an electronic dipstick, which allows drivers to check their oil from the inside of the vehicle instead of under the hood. This is not only safer but cleaner as well.

These are just a couple of finer features that stood out amongst dozens, but Q5 is equipped with too many to mention in a blog. So, the next best thing is to click on Audi Q5, where you too will be delightfully surprised at how Audi has strengthened its presence in the crossover segment with style, safety, and sophistication.

  To see more of Audi's 2009 line-up, view RTM's Audi Buyer's Guide.

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2009 Subaru Impreza WRX Review – A Triple Threat

By Courtney Caldwell

 

Quietly flying under the radar, Subaru is one automotive brand that needs to be watched as it surfaces with unbelievably cool cars.

 

Known for its amazing and abundant safety features as well as its dexterous use on-road and off, this week’s 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX test car impressed and surprised the hell out of me. It felt more like go-cart than car, making it a whole lot of fun to drive…or should I say ‘zip’ around town. Add to that its all-wheel drive and five-star front and side crash ratings, and you end up with both fun and function, a rare combination of talent indeed. In fact, beware same-class competitors as this is one talent of triple threat.

 

For those with safety top of mind, the WRX delivers all the right stuff to make you feel safe and secure no matter who you are, where you are or whatever you’re doing. Styling is cool yet conservative; not boring nor bodacious. With keyless entry, you enter a cabin of comfort and convenience with automatic climate control, carpeting and cruise control, to name a few. Estimated miles per gallon average 18MPG city/25MPG highway – however, it may be hard to contain yourself in a dynamic WRX 5-speed due to its need for speed.

 

Driving the WRX offers far more than fun and function, safety and satisfaction, pep and perkiness; it also leaves you with a sense of pride in knowing that it’s not impugning the planet with a large carbon footprint. If all that isn’t a triple threat then I don’t know what is. For more information on the Subaru Impreza WRX, drive here!

 

To read about other 2009 Subaru cars, view RTM's 2009 Subaru Vehicle Model Guide.

 

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Avoiding & Deterring Criminals: Safety Tips for Women

Here are a few more safety hints and tricks for safety savvy women - they're potentially life-saving. Reading them may make you paranoid - especially if you see a lot of horror movies, but it's better to be knowledgeable and paranoid than unprepared for something life-threatening.

 

1. When getting into your car in a parking lot or parking garage, be aware: look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor, and in the back seat. If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars. Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side... If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out. It's better to be paranoid than dead.

 

2. At night, always take the elevator instead of the stairs. Stairwells are horrible places to be alone - they’re the perfect crime spot.

 

3. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, always run! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; and even then, it most likely will not be a vital organ. Run, preferably in a zig-zag pattern!

 

4. As women, we are always trying to be sympathetic: Stop. It may get you raped, or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man, who always played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked 'for help' into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim. Also remember the Crying Baby Theory: serial killers will often have methods such as playing a recording of a baby crying outside women’s windows when they are home alone, or turning on outside taps so that when women go outside to investigate, they can attack.

 

For more tips, visit RTM's Travel or Auto Safety & Security sections.

 

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Packing Right to Avoid Luggage Loss at the Airport

Based on how luggage misplacement can turn into a number one vacation killer, travelers really cannot be bombarded with too many great tips on how to not let their luggage get lost. Here are some excellent ways to stay in control of your stuff.

1) Consider squeezing everything into a carry-on for a short trip. Most people tend to over-pack and end up re-wearing the same items over and over again - like bathing suits, jeans and shoes.

2) In a pinch, use a ribbon or some sort of fabric to tie around your suitcase to make it stand out, when luggage tags aren't enough. Pack business cards, preferably in the most accessible or visible pockets of you luggage, so you can be easily reached if your luggage is found.

3) Don't assume all will go according to plan; watch the check-in staff to ensure appropriate labels are being put on your luggage.

4) In the digital age, it's easier than ever to simply take a picture of your luggage. In case your luggage is lost, you can show it to airport staff to aid their search.

For more travel advice from RTM, click here.

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2009 Baggage Checking Charges By Airline

Pack lightly, because airlines are cracking down on baggage charges for 2009 and 2010. Many airlines offer perks programs which exempt or reduce frequent customers these charges, and discounts for pre-paying charges online. Overweight, oversized, and internationally travelling bags may be charged more or less, and all baggage fees are subject to change. For all the airports listed, a carry-on and personal item are allowed on board. Charges apply both ways for round trip travel. These charges apply to economy or coach-class tickets and usually vary for higher class tickets. This list is in order from best deal on baggage charges to most expensive.

 

Southwest: 2 checked bags at no charge, $50 charge per bag for the 3^rd to 9^th bag. Additional information is available here.

 

Jet Blue: One free checked bag is allowed; the second bag is $30, and additional bags are charged $75 fees. For more details, click here.

 

AirTran Airways: There is a $15 charge for the first checked bag and a $25 charge for the second; $50 a piece for additional bags. For details, click here.

 

Frontier Airlines: The first bag is charged $15; second bag $25; additional bags are $50. Full detail is available here.

 

Continental Airlines: Charge for the 1^st checked bag is $15 at the airport; the second bag is $45. Additional bags are $100. When not pre-paid online, there’s a $5 surcharge per bag. Full details can be found here.

 

United Airlines: For domestic travel, baggage charges are $15 first checked bag, $25 second bag when paid online; $5 surcharge per bag when paid at the airport. Expect an additional charge of $125 for the 3^rd & 4^th checked bag; additional bags $200. More details here.

 

Northwest: For a domestic trip, baggage charges paid at the airport are $15 the first bag and $25 for the 2^nd checked bag. The third bag is charged $125 and additional bags are $200. If not pre-paid online, there’s a $5 surcharge per bag. Read the details here.

 

Delta: The charge for the first bag is $15 and the second is $25. The 3^rd bag is $125, and additional bags are $200. Delta also charges an additional $5 per bag for baggage charges not pre-paid online. Further details can be found here.

 

Spirit: The baggage charge for one bag is $25 ($19 if reserved online), second bag is $25, and the third to fifth bags are charged $100. Spirit will only allow one bag to be checked at the airport, so make sure to pre-check in additional bags online. More information from Spirit is available here.

 

American Airlines: $20 charge for the first bag, $30 for the second; $100 per piece for the 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th pieces; & $200 per piece for additional pieces. International flights are allowed one carry-on and two checked bags at no charge. Get more information here.

 

US Airways: Bag charges are $20 for the first bag and $30 for the second if you pay online; extra bags are $100, and there’s a $5 additional charge for fees paid at the airport. Baggage policies in full are here.

Some argue that baggage allowances should be universal, but the counterargument is that differing baggage allowances allow airlines to be competitive, and customers can use these differences as a deciding factor when booking flights. Most flyers, however, rely on factors such as price; whether or not miles will apply to their frequent flyer points, amount of stops, and reputation of airline to make their choices. When people have their mind set, extra baggage costs may just be….extra baggage.

Spa Etiquette for First-Timers

A little relaxation time just what the doctor ordered? If you’ve never gone to a spa resort before, here are some spa etiquette suggestions to help you make the most of your visit. Keep in mind these are only suggestions; each spa is unique, and its best to call ahead with any questions.

•   Arrive at least 20 minutes before your spa appointment so you have time to check in, change into your robe and slippers, and relax. Get there even sooner if the spa has a steam room, sauna or hot tub. It will help relax you before your massage. Shower off the hot tub's chlorinated water before your spa treatment. A hot shower can also relax you before your spa treatment and make it more enjoyable.

•   If you’re uncomfortable with anything during your treatment – the pressure, the music, or the temperature - speak up. The therapist will make an adjustment. You can talk during the treatment or stay quiet, as you choose. At the end, when the therapist says, "Take your time getting up," that usually means a few minutes - it's not an invitation to take a nap.

•   Tip just like you would at a restaurant: 15-20%. If you were given a gift certificate, ask if the tip was included.

•   Generally, undress completely for body services, your therapist will keep your body draped in dry services and only expose area to be worked upon; however in wet services such as body scrubs, body wraps and hydrotherapies you will not be draped in order to reap maximum benefits. Swimsuits are generally optional.

•   In the steam room, avoid wearing a bathing suit as the dyes can get into your pores - the wrapped towel covering all private areas is adequate. However, in the Unisex Steam room it is best to adhere to the policy of the spa. To close your pores after a steam room visit, shower with cold water. Drink plenty of purified water while in the steam room; a typical stay should not exceed five to ten minutes. 

•   For resort and hotel spas, it's best to book 1–2 months prior to your visit, as resort spas often fill up fast. Be sure to turn off your cell phone during your time in the spa facilities.

For spa reviews from RTM, click here.
 

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Read These Life-Saving Tips for Safety Street Smarts

Because of recent abductions during daylight hours, refresh yourself of what to do in a scary situation. Share these tips with everyone you know, print them, and re-read them often. It never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in. 

 

1. The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do! 

2. If a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, do not hand it to him. Toss it away from you. Chances are that he is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than you, and he will go for the wallet/purse. Run like mad in the other direction.

 

3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole and wave like crazy. The driver won't see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.

 

4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc., and just sit (doing their checkbook, or making a list, etc.). Don’t do this! The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your head, and tell you where to go. As soon as you get into your car, lock the doors and leave. If someone is in the car with a gun to your head, do not drive off! Instead gun the engine and speed into anything, wrecking the car. Your Air Bag will save you, and if the person is in the back seat they will get the worst of it. As soon as the car crashes, bail out and run. It is better than having your body found in a remote location.

 

For more tips from RTM, visit the Auto Safety & Security section or the Travel Safety & Security section.

 

 

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New Car Review: 2009 Infiniti G37

By Thom Blackett

 

“Competition brings out the best in products and the worst in people.” – David Sarnoff

 

While we’d argue the validity of the latter assertion, we wholeheartedly agree with the former, especially after spending more than 1,000 miles behind the wheel of a 2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan. Entry-level by definition only, this luxurious four-door proves that there’s always a way to outdo your competition, even when that competition includes BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz. 

 

With a starting price of about $33,000, the G37 Sedan is on par with the BMW 328i Sedan and Mercedes-Benz C300 Sport Sedan; the Lexus IS undercuts them all by about $2,000. In exchange for your hard-earned dollars you’ll get a basic warranty slightly longer (60,000 miles) than those primary competitors; a slew of safety features including six airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control; and niceties such as leather upholstery, powered front seats, and satellite radio. Move up to the pricier G37 Journey, G37x AWD, or G37S Sport and you’ll gain access to standard items like a six-disc CD changer and dual-zone climate control, with options ranging from a booming Bose surround sound system to a touch-screen navigation system with real-time traffic information and hard drive space for personal music storage. Under the hood of every 2009 G37 is a V6 engine delivering similar efficiency but more power than the Lexus IS 250/350, BMW 328i/335i, and Mercedes-Benz C300/C350.

 

We put that V6 engine – and the rest of the G37 Sedan – to the test during a marathon round trip excursion between Maine and Virginia. During mostly highway driving, we took full advantage of the Infiniti’s abundant passing power, yet still averaged roughly 25 mpg. The seven-speed automatic transmission usually provided smooth shifts, with leather-trimmed steering wheel paddles adding a degree of sportiness. Typical of Infiniti vehicles, the ride was decidedly firm and the steering tight and responsive. Inside the G37, which offers more interior and trunk room than the competitors we’ve mentioned, supportive seats helped prevent any backaches and the ample trunk swallowed all of our gear. More power, more space, and plenty of driving fun. Thank you, competition.

 

Specifications

Test Vehicle: 2009 Infiniti G37x AWD Sedan

Base Price: $33,250

Price as Tested: $43,265

Engine: 3.7-liter V6

Transmission: Seven-speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway

NHTSA/IIHS Frontal Crash Ratings: 5 stars (driver), 4 stars (passenger) / Good

NHTSA/IIHS Side Impact Ratings: 5 stars / Good

Also Consider: Acura TL, BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS

 

For more information see Road & Travel’s Infiniti Buyer’s Guide or visit infinitiusa.com.

 

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