How Much Do You Know About Driving In Icy Conditions?

From the most knowledgeable driver in Arnold, Missouri to the one that just moved to Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, or Jefferson County, MO from down south, every single driver should become aware of the risks associated with winter travel. Arnold, MO auto body shops including CARSTAR Arnold see cars roll into their garage every winter from drivers who felt that they didn't need to be concerned about icy road dangers. If you do not want to be one of those unfortunate people, read through this article to find out what you should know.

Why would I look at this if I have already got expertise in winter driving?

You might think that having experience would be useful for winter driving, and to some extent you'd be correct. But the downside that is included with that is that motorists who possess a lot of experience on icy roads constantly get into auto body accidents due to their overconfidence. If we were to be absolutely straightforward with ourselves, we would understand that there's not a person on the road who's got the skill level necessary to drive at highway speeds on roads when ice is present. No one has the reflexes and quick brain needed to recover once you start fishtailing at high speeds. Thus, it's extremely important that every motorist get ready for winter weather not just by practicing winter driving at slow speeds, but also by slowing down overall.

Aren’t good tires everything you need to drive safely on winter roads?

Once again, this is among those half truths that may land you in an Arnold, Missouri auto body shop quicker than you know it. Having good tires with an adequate amount of tread is going to help you out there. However, you should never be lulled into a misguided sense of security by good tires. While good tires might get you up and going in snowy conditions, your snow tires will not do you a lick of good whenever all that snow is compressed into ice. Once again, good tires may do much to assist you, but they're not the be-all, end-all of wintry driving safety.

Won’t I be able to prepare for ice as I see it coming?

This would be a good strategy, but the problem is that you frequently can't see ice coming. “Black ice” is a term employed to describe ice that blends into the asphalt so well that you can hardly see it at all, regardless of how close you are to it or how well you're focusing. Most wintertime driving auto body accidents do not happen when there's a highly apparent layer of snow covering the whole road. The truly hazardous stuff is the ice that you can't see until you have already lost control of your vehicle. Do not wait until it's too late to drive as if you are on unsafe winter roads. Take the appropriate safety measures with every push of the gas pedal.

So all I have to do is slow down and I will avoid an accident on snow or ice?

That statement isn't completely true either. Needless to say, one of the safety measures that we all should take on winter roads is to slow down to a sensible speed considering the conditions that we're being confronted with. However, that is only one precaution of many. Truth be told, anybody who is traveling too fast in snow or ice is at far more risk of crashing than those who are not. Most data actually points to the fact that a lot of drivers who get into car accidents were moving at a rather reasonable speed. What usually happens is that a driver going at what they perceive to be a safe speed drops their guard, hits a spot of black ice, and gets into an auto body collision before they even understand what happened. The moral of this story is that you shouldn't presume that driving reasonably slowly means that you will be immune from sliding on the ice.

What should change about my driving habits to get ready for winter driving?

Obviously, you'll want to slow down. Clearly, you need to have good tires. These are the things which we've already covered. Moreover, just be mindful out there. Don't make abrupt lane changes or fast turns. Allow a lot of space between you and the car in front of your car. Always be vigilant and on the lookout for obvious ice and snow on the road. Exercise a little common sense and keep in mind that no time saved will be worth the loss of your life or anyone else’s as a result of a wintertime auto body accident.

Just what speed will be safe for driving in winter driving conditions?

The speed that you ought to be traveling will depend on the specific problems that you find yourself in. Different factors should influence your speed like the amount of ice and snow, if there are any curves, the sharpness of said curves, the incline of any hills, the quantity of traffic, and your own comfort level. If you're on the open interstate with no hills or other traffic, you may find forty miles an hour to be a reasonable speed. If you incorporate any of the factors above into the mix, you probably should reduce your speed even more.

Even with all of these precautions, you can't ever be completely safe on the road when you are working with something as dangerous as black ice. Really, the absolute best thing that you can do is to hold off until the weather goes away if you see any freezing rain in the forecast before heading out. However, this isn't necessarily practical in every single situation. For anybody living in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, or Jefferson County, MO, you'll need to drive in icy weather conditions at some point. The best thing that you could do is just be prepared. A good way to be prepared is to select an auto body shop beforehand so you do not have to make a quick decision if and when you get into a wreck. Give consideration to CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri. They've got much experience repairing automobiles that have been damaged by the rough roads of winter.

Is Your Car Winter-Ready?

If you recently moved into the Arnold, MO area from down south, or you are a younger driver, you almost certainly do not have a lot of experience driving in snow. Winter driving isn't something you should take on without the proper knowledge, both about how to drive and how to prepare. However, even if you are a veteran motorist in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, or Jefferson County, MO, your automobile should be ready for the dangerous winter roads every single year. It is insufficient to understand that you have to brake sooner or pulse them, you need to make sure that your entire automobile is winterized and all set to go. To do this, CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO has assembled this checklist to make sure that your car is snow-ready!

Of course, your brakes are specifically important when you are driving your car on roads that may have snow, ice, or that slushy half-snow stuff. If you feel that your braking system might be malfunctioning for any reason, get them checked out by a trustworthy auto body repair mechanic as soon as possible. Ensure that you know whether your brakes are anti-lock or not. If they're anti-lock, utilize your brakes normally if you feel your motor vehicle beginning to slide. If you don't have anti-lock, tap your brakes instead of holding them down. It goes contrary to what you will want to do, but it's the best way to recover control over your motor vehicle.

Examine your tires to ensure that you'll receive the traction that you need to have from them. To do this, you don't need to have a complicated gauge to tell you if your tires don’t have sufficient tread. You only need a penny. Merely stick the penny in the tread in a number of different places on the tire. Make sure Lincoln’s head is going in the direction of the tire. If Lincoln’s head touches the tire, your tires have sufficient tread. If the top of Lincoln’s head isn't going to touch the tire, you need to get better tires.

Undoubtedly, you'll want to have a functioning heater and defroster system. This isn't just for your own comfort though. If the front and back defrosters aren't working, you need to take your automobile to an auto body shop so that you can have the absolute maximum visibility on winter roads.

Lots of people overlook that batteries are a significant part of preparing your automobile for the winter season. The connection to the battery ought to be clean, tightly fixed to the battery, and totally free of corrosion. Be sure that the mounting on the battery is tightly secured. The majority of batteries that are 3 years old or over should be tested to ascertain if you must have it replaced.

The best thing that you can do to prepare your automobile for winter is to take it to a dependable Arnold, MO mechanic and get them to look at items like the hoses, belts, anti-freeze, and exhaust system. If your hoses or belts are poor, the cold temperatures might affect them and then leave you stranded. Having insufficient anti-freeze will damage your cooling system after prolonged usage. If your exhaust system has leaks inside, dangerous deadly carbon monoxide gas could enter the cab of your automobile. Notably if you get stranded someplace and you wish to run the heater to stay warm, this can be incredibly unsafe. As a side note for if you're stranded, make sure that a window is cracked and your tail pipe is free of snow and ice to give the carbon monoxide gas a place to go.

Be sure that you have adequate washer fluid as well. Winter driving is characterized by lots of that slushy, muddy stuff. Washer fluid improves your visibility, which is definitely a very important thing.
You may have seen how vendors carry specialized rubber-coated windshield wiper blades that are particularly made for snowy weather. Regardless of how good of shape your windshield wipers are in, think about investing in these snow-blades. They are ideal for dealing with the extra weight of snow that they'll have to deal with.

Finally, keep plenty of gas in your gas tank. The general rule is never to have under half of a tank at any time. Definitely, that will depend on your specific car or truck, but following this rule will allow you to ensure your fuel lines don't freeze.

CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO see lots of vehicles which were not prepared for winter come through their auto body repair shop. I hope this article has offered you an outline of how you can ready your vehicle for the hazardous conditions of winter. Still, it's understandable that even the most skilled seasonal driver with the most well-prepared vehicle can end up in an auto body accident in Arnold, MO. If that's your situation, I really hope you will think about going to CARSTAR Arnold.

Driving Tips You Should Hold Deer

You'd be amazed at what amount of automobiles end up in a car body shop at this time of year due to a deer prancing out in the street. Even in towns such as Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, and Jefferson County, MO, deer can find their way to the front of your windshield. This is principally the result of a recent increase in the population of deer. A lot more deer are finding their way into increasingly urban regions as a result of the climb in population. The National Safety Council stated that in 2003 there were 530,000 animal-related crashes that resulted in 100 deaths and 10,000 injuries. This is a severe problem in the Arnold, MO area.

That’s the reason why CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO has put together this set of tips for you. There are methods to remain safe during the especially dangerous autumn months. Take some time and read these guidelines and you won’t be sorry later on.

Naturally, you should always be mindful when you are on the road. However, it’s particularly crucial to watch out for deer from sunset to midnight and from a couple of hours before sunrise to sunrise. Watch out in deer crossing areas and any place that farmland meets wooded land.

As you have most likely seen, primetime for deer is when it is dark outside. Thus, it is vital that you don't forget to use your high beam headlights when you do not have any oncoming traffic. But if there are vehicles oncoming, do not have your headlights on. Seriously, nobody likes the guy who will not turn his high beams off. Do not be that guy.

If you notice a deer on the road, brake solidly but do not swerve. Think about it, the potential for hitting another automobile that is oncoming is significantly worse than the possibility of hitting a deer. If you're traveling at 60 miles per hour and the other vehicle is flying at 60 miles per hour, the automobile accident will be the equivalent of a one hundred twenty mile per hour accident. That does not even count for the increased danger to the other car’s driver and passengers.

Don’t forget to buckle your seatbelt. That's the best way to avoid injuring yourself when it comes to deer collisions. Surprisingly, windshields can be quite painful when you strike them hard enough with your face. It may be an inconvenience, but it is definitely worth it for the additional measure of safety that it provides.

Deer are out there in droves at this time of year and it’s your job as a motorist to keep away from them. Be watchful and count on the unexpected. Put the cellular phone away and keep your eyes on the road. With a bit of common sense you can greatly improve your chances of keeping your car’s auto body intact. However, if you get in an auto body crash in Arnold, MO or the surrounding communities, think about taking your automobile to CARSTAR Arnold. We have got the experience you'll need with dents and other auto body damage due to deer collisions.

Avoiding Dent Repair By Not Getting Dents

It does sound easy, doesn’t it? If you're in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, or St. Louis, MO and do not want to need to go to CARSTAR Arnold or some other auto body shop, the best thing that can be done is to not get the vehicle dinged up at all. Naturally, that’s a lot easier said than done.

If you want to keep your car looking shiny and clear of dents, pay close attention to these essential tips on how to refrain from denting the car. They are easy, they're simple, and they may save you a massive headache down the line.

The first thing that you could do to avoid denting your vehicle is to avoid taking it out. This might not sound very appealing or practical, and for a few people it genuinely is not. Nevertheless, don’t feel like you have to hop in the automobile each and every time you go anywhere. Think about options like walking or biking if you are worried about your health. Consider carpooling or taking the bus if you are concerned about the environment. Once again, these are not always practical for every situation, but we must get out of the mindset that cars are the only method of getting around.

This next tip is probably my personal favorite: don't park next to other people if you do not need to. It is that easy. At CARSTAR Arnold, lots of the Arnold, Missouri dent repair customers that we see would've avoided all their problems with this one tip. The next time you go to Walmart, do not go for the absolutely closest spot to the door. Park just 5 to 6 spots down from everybody else and most of your vehicle dent problems will disappear. People just do not think to do this because we're programmed to take the closest spot possible. But if you think about it, isn’t it really worth those 20 additional steps to protect yourself from a possibly pricey auto body repair bill.

Remember how I said that the previous technique was my favorite? Well this one is probably my least favorite. The best thing that you can do in heavily urban regions such as the Metro East St. Louis area is to parallel park when you're able to. It’s pretty funny to contemplate since the majority of people really associate parallel parking with dent damage. Nevertheless, parallel parking eliminates any possibility of your vehicle being dented from an adjacent automobile. You still run the risk of being dented on the forward or rear bumper, but they can take a hit a lot easier than your driver’s side door can.

This next one will demand a little bit more attention to detail: take notice of the kind of automobile you're parking close to. Some could be more hazardous for your automobile than others. For example, it should come as no real surprise that motorcycles are the greatest vehicle to park adjacent to. They can’t swing open a door and scratch your automobile. In the same way, minivans have sliding doors that will not be a problem for you. Do remember that the front doors will not be sliding, so there will continue to be some threat. Two-door cars means half the risk of a four-door automobile. Compacts have doors which are lighter and smaller. You should have less to worry about from them compared to a monstrous truck or SUV.

Even though it may appear like a sensible method for preventing auto body damage, don't double-park. Really, do not be that guy. You will not only be a very disliked person, but you also open yourself up to getting your automobile key-ed or otherwise defaced.

Having dents in your car aren't just an inescapable part of owning an automobile. Not every auto body accident and dent damage can be avoided, but every auto accident and dent has the ability to minimize the value and appearance of your automobile. If your car does have dent damage, get it repaired quickly to avoid hassles later on. Start thinking about going to CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO. They know how to get your automobile in good working order and looking better than ever.

Choosing A Collision Center BEFORE Your Next Auto Accident

There are plenty of items to take into account before choosing an auto body shop which will meet your needs. We hope you had the forethought to decide that it is time for you to choose an auto body shop before a huge dent appeared in your car body. Either way, CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO wants you to learn these key facts before you decide to weigh through the innumerable collision repair options in the Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, or St. Louis, MO area.

• You don’t need to take your vehicle to an auto body shop simply because your insurance company told you to. As the proprietor of your vehicle, you are able to choose which auto body shop will do the best work for your needs.
• After you are in a wreck, use sound judgment in determining if it may be unsafe to drive. It is better to call a tow truck then to put you and your loved ones at risk!
• It is very common for two different auto body shops to have two different estimates on the same work. However, it is important that you do not automatically go with whichever shop is the least expensive. Sometimes, a lower estimate may not include all needed work. If you’re unsure why one auto body work estimator is different from another you have received, please check with one of us at CARSTAR Arnold.
• Certain insurance companies might want you to go to a claims center before getting your automobile repaired. You might also leave your vehicle at our shop and ask the insurance company to examine the automobile here.
• You cannot understate the value of selecting an auto body shop that has some credentialed education for its staff. Choose an auto body shop that has I-Car certified technicians.
• If you think that you could do the repair yourself, but you are not completely sure, don’t make the big mistake of simply diving into it. You could very well wind up doing more damage to it than good. After all, your car is the second-largest investment you'll make. Get it fixed by experts to preserve its value.
• Missouri state law doesn't require the citizens of Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, or St. Louis, MO to get more than one appraisal or estimate. However, it is generally a smart idea to shop around a little bit before making a decision if you haven’t chosen a collision center beforehand. If you did select a shop before the crash occurred, know that you don't have to look elsewhere for auto body repair if you do not want to.
• Ask if the auto body shop comes with a written lifetime warranty.
• Ensure that your chosen auto body shop will work with your insurance claim before taking your automobile to them for repair.

It is easy to see that selecting an auto body shop is no laughing matter. Be smart and make your choice according to these tips and good judgment. As you're looking, think about going to CARSTAR Arnold. They will be glad to show you more about how to get you back on the road after your next auto accident.

Ten Questions For An Auto Body Shop

After being tangled up in an auto accident, one of the first things you’ll take into consideration is getting your vehicle fixed as fast as possible. But taking your vehicle to the first auto body shop you see would be a rash decision. In order to find a reliable and trustworthy auto body shop, take time to do your homework and ask questions so that you will receive high quality auto body repair work for your vehicle.

CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri sees the significance of a good auto body repair every time someone brings a vehicle to them that someone else didn’t do right. That is why they have these tips for you as you pick out where to do your next repair in Arnold, Festus, St. Louis, Imperial, or Oakville, MO.

Here are some questions and things to consider before allowing an auto body repair shop to repair your vehicle:

1.    Find out more about the auto body repair shop. Reading an online review about an auto body repair shop can be a useful resource. You can get a sense of the standard of the auto body repair shop based on customer feedback, ratings, and reviews. You may need to ask the following questions after reading an online review: how frequently will I get text updates about your car’s repair status? Will you be able to look at photos of your car repair in progress?

2.    What type of warranty comes with their auto body repair work? If they offer a warranty, ask how long it lasts and what it'll cover.

3.    Does the auto body repair shop have rental cars on their lot or do they offer loaner vehicles? Being without an automobile is an inconvenience, so you will need to ensure that you have a rental, loaner, or courtesy car while yours is in the auto body shop. Some auto body repair shops have a car rental facility situated in or near their auto body shop. Other auto body repair shops may offer loaner or courtesy cars which you can use while they're fixing your car.

4.    How long will the auto body repair take? There are lots of related factors that will affect how long an auto body repair will take, including the extent of damage to your vehicle, how busy the auto body repair shop is at that specific time, or even holidays during which the auto body shop might be closed.

5.    Is your vehicle covered while it is in the shop? Ask the auto body repair shop if they carry fire and theft insurance. You want to be sure that you will be covered in case your vehicle is damaged, destroyed, stolen, or burglarized while it is in the auto body shop.

6.    Will the paint match the rest of my automobile? More often than not, cars have a paint code on a plate located either in a door jamb, under the hood, or in the trunk. This paint code will give the precise color of the manufacturer’s paint. Make sure the auto body repair shop will be utilizing the same exact color of paint and not a similar color.

7.    How soon can you wash your vehicle after an auto body repair? An auto body repair shop generally gives your car back to you clean. They may have already washed it or waited for the paint to dry so that you can drive your car immediately after the repair. Still, you should know whether it's safe to take your vehicle to a car wash that uses friction brushing or a touch-free car wash with acid presoaks and super concentrated car wash soap soon after a fresh paint job.

8.    Does the auto body repair shop have any certifications? Certifications, like I-CAR and ASE, are a good sign of a reputable auto body repair shop. A certification usually means that the auto body repair shop has the skills and knowledge needed to perform total, safe, and quality repairs.

9.    Will the auto body repair shop put everything in writing? When bringing your vehicle into an auto body repair shop, ask if you can receive a written estimate. You should also ask for an itemized bill after all work is completed. If the written estimate does not match the itemized bill, do not hesitate to ask about any discrepancies.

10.   What is the payment policy? Most reputable auto body repair shops post their policies and payment methods where customers can easily see them. The payment policies may include labor rates, materials, warranty information, guarantees, and acceptable forms of payment. If you do not see payment policy information, ask before the auto body shop begins any auto body repair work on your vehicle.

Bonus Questions:

• Does the auto body repair shop work on your make and model?
• Do they specialize in the type of auto body repair work your motor vehicle needs?
• How do they price out auto body repairs and auto body painting services (i.e. an rate per hour or flat fee)?

Which place to go for auto body repair in Arnold, Festus, St. Louis, Imperial, or Oakville, MO is a vital decision. If you are searching for an auto body shop, consider CARSTAR Arnold. They have the experience you'll need with the customer service you want.

How to Choose the Right Auto Body Shop

As an automobile owner, your chances of requiring the services of a collision repair and refinishing facility are higher than you think. Whether it is from storm damage, rust and corrosion, acid rain and harsh sunlight, or an automobile accident outright, the risks are real. It's wise, then, to know how to pick an auto body shop.

Oftentimes when people are involved in an accident they assume "the insurance company will deal with it for me.'' In fact, it's your duty to decide on who will do the repairs for you. This isn't a choice which should be taken lightly, as it can involve protecting a significant investment. That is why CARSTAR Arnold has put together this list of tips for you as you decide which auto body shop can meet your needs. They have years of experience handling all types of vehicles in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO.

Preliminaries

• Start looking for an auto body shop before you need one; you can make better decisions when you're not rushed or in a panic.
• Ask your friends and acquaintances for their recommendations. Even in this modern era, old-fashioned word-of-mouth reputation continues to be valuable.
• Check with your local consumer organization regarding the reputation of the facility in question. Ask about the number of complaints, if any, and find out how the complaints were resolved.
• Always try to visit the auto body shop before you make the decision on who will fix your vehicle.

At the Shop

• Ask if the auto body shop generally handles your vehicle make and model. Ask how long the auto body shop has been in business.
• Look for a neat, well-organized facility with modern equipment. Many vehicle manufacturers suggest specific auto body repair procedures and equipment for the repair of their automobiles. Ensure that the facility you decide on is trained in these procedures and has the proper equipment.
• Professionally run facilities will have a polite, helpful staff ready to answer all your questions.
• Try to find signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, customer service awards.
• Oftentimes you can easily see the vehicles being fixed by the auto body shop. Are you impressed by the type of vehicles the company is fixing and the way the vehicles are being taken care of?
• Also search for indications that the staff is technically competent, such as trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work training from I-CAR.
• All policies, guarantees, and methods of payment should be posted or explained to your satisfaction.

Being alert and attentive when you go to an auto body shop will tell you a lot about what to expect from your auto body repair. If you would like an estimate or have questions relating to auto body repair, please contact CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri.

Five Maintenance Procedures Your Car Cannot Do Without

People tend to hop into their cars without thinking about all of the things that could be going wrong under the hood. However, you can’t understate the importance of keeping your car in tip-top shape. CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO, as top quality auto repair experts, want you to know about these five auto service items you shouldn’t skip.

Oil Changes

Oil is the lifeblood of a healthy car. Most people know that they have to change the oil every 3,000 miles, but don’t forget that you should also examine your oil level every 1,000 miles just to make sure that everything is as it should be.

Keep your oil changed. It is the easiest thing to overlook and ignore but the most crucial thing anyone can do. We at CARSTAR Arnold see a lot of worn engine parts because of the lack of oil changes.

Tire Maintenance

Properly maintained tires enhance your vehicle's steering, stopping, and traction. Tire pressure ought to be set to the manufacturer’s specifications, which can usually be found in the owners' manual, on a sticker inside fuel filler door, or on the door well of the driver's side door.

It’s vital that you keep your tires inflated to the pressure that is recommended by the manufacturer of the car. Proper inflation keeps your tires wearing properly. Over- or under-inflated wears tires out faster, can negatively affect fuel consumption, and present a safety hazard. Get your tires rotated and balanced every 6,000-8,000 miles and get the alignment checked at least once a year to make sure there are not suspension problems.

Fluids

Checking the other fluids in your vehicle is also very important. Of course, we have already covered how you need to have the oil changed regularly. When you do that, also check all of the fluids including the transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. Flush the transmission fluid around every 50,000 miles.

Brake Check

A brake inspection should be part of your vehicle’s ongoing regular maintenance to guarantee safety and reliability. Have your brakes inspected at least once per year or more often if you experience grinding, vibrations, or shaking when you brake. Regardless of the automobile, brakes usually need to be replaced every 20,000-30,000 miles.

Scheduled Maintenance

Failure to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule may lead to loss of warranty coverage, breakdowns, poor fuel economy, and an increased cost of ownership in the long run. Having a certified professional examine your automobile according to these schedules is an opportunity to catch troubles before they get you stuck or turn into bigger repairs.

Build a relationship with an auto body shop. Moving from shop to shop might save a few bucks on certain jobs, but ultimately the only one who'll have any responsibility for the shape of the vehicle will be you. Having a reputable auto body shop you trust means you having somebody looking beneath the hood for any possible problems on a regular basis. A good mechanic, who's familiar with your needs, your expectations, and your car, will help you get the most from the car.

If you're in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, or St. Louis, MO area and do not already have a regular auto body mechanic, think about taking your vehicle to CARSTAR Arnold. They help countless drivers like you keep their automobiles in top performance shape.

Avoiding Staged Auto Body Claims

Staged auto body accidents are becoming increasingly popular, endangering the lives and boosting the auto insurance rates of innocent drivers who may unknowingly think they're at fault. Questionable claims from staged accidents increased 46.3 percent from 2007 through 2009, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, or NICB, a nonprofit agency in Des Plaines, Illinois, funded by 1,100 property and casualty insurance providers nationwide to fight auto insurance fraud and automobile theft. Here are some ideas from CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO based on information from the NICB. If you have an auto body accident in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, or St. Louis, MO, you will be glad that you were prepared with this important auto body repair info.

Auto insurance fraud added $4.8 billion to $6.8 billion to auto injury claim payments in 2007, based on the Insurance Research Council's November 2008 study "Fraud and Buildup in Auto Injury Insurance Claims: 2008 Edition." NICB investigations in Florida, New York, and California uncovered sophisticated, multistate rings that included the staged accident participants and doctors, chiropractors, lawyers, and even auto body shop owners that profited from the car insurance scam.

Multiple claims for one accident

One common element runs though the majority of staged accidents. The "victim" vehicle will contain three to four passengers who will file medical claims against the victim's auto insurance company in addition to a car damage claim. Stagers often target younger ladies and older adult drivers as they enter or exit a shopping mall or parking garage. If you're talking on a cell phone or appear otherwise distracted while driving, you're a perfect mark.

There'll be somebody sitting there at the curb and you pull up and they'll wave you on by. The next thing you know, you're getting blocked and then getting clobbered. Do not always assume that it was an accident; it may very well have been intentional.

Avoiding a staged accident

Here are six tricks from CARSTAR Arnold on how to avoid becoming a victim of a staged accident:

• Avoid tailgating. Recognize the "swoop and squat" scenario in which a motorist suddenly swoops in front of you then slams on his or her brakes, and leave plenty of distance between you and the car before you in case the driver slams on his brakes.
• Call the cops even if damage is minimal. An Arnold, Missouri police report will make it more difficult for a stager to intentionally damage their car later to collect a bigger claim against your car insurance company.
• Grab a camera or use your cell phone to photograph everything and everyone at the scene. Pay extra attention to the number of people in the other vehicle and the harm to both vehicles.
• Be wary of passers-by who just happen to arrive on the scene, especially if they offer to point you to a doctor, attorney, or tow-truck company. They might be part of the scam.
• Steer clear of tow-truck drivers that you did not call. They are generally part of this car insurance scheme.
• Be wary of doctors who insist that you file a personal injury claim following an accident, especially if you aren't hurt.

Although auto body fraud is a very real concern, lots of auto body accidents aren't anything more than accidents. In either case, consider taking your vehicle to CARSTAR Arnold, which serves the people of Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO.

Finding The Best Place For Auto Body Repair

If you have been in a car accident, it’s crucial that you know that auto body shops only sometimes have your interests in mind. Sadly, some auto body shops will routinely downplay claims, minimize auto repair costs, use cheap parts, or even fail to fully repair problems. These practices can devalue your automobile and give you even worse problems down the road.

Here are a few fundamental principles from CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO on things to look for when choosing an auto body shop, and tips on how to be a proactive participant in your car’s auto body repair to make sure that it comes out looking great and costing you no more than necessary.

Research Before You Repair

Angieslist.com, Yelp.com, and Google reviews are useful sources to get a sense of an auto body shop’s quality based on customer reviews, but take the online reviews with a dose of skepticism. You will want to pay attention to well written, thought-out reviews – not nasty one-liners, because even the best businesses can end up with an unsatisfied customer every so often. You may even be able to find discussion forums specific to your vehicle’s make and model where forum members can suggest good auto body shops in your community.

Choose an Auto Body Shop with a Warranty

Some auto body shops offer their own independent warranties on their repairs for fit, finish, functionality, and overall quality. Request to see their warranty and ask some questions about it prior to agreeing to work with a given auto body shop and make certain it does not have a time frame. A good auto body shop will offer a lifetime warranty. CARSTAR Arnold offers such a warranty for the people of Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO.

Keep Your Existing Manufacturer Warranties Intact

Ask your chosen auto body shop if any mechanical repairs will nullify or change any existing warranties you may have on your new or recently purchased automobile. Factory warranties on engines and accessories might be compromised if your automobile needs mechanical repairs after a collision, so make sure your car’s factory warranty is not being compromised with aftermarket parts, or repairs that otherwise aren’t manufacturer-approved.

If your insurer is trying to “mandate” aftermarket or used parts that will void your factory warranty, demand that the insurer give you a written warranty exactly the same as your factory warranty. Nine times out of ten they’ll just pay for original parts, rather than giving you the runaround.

Get More Than One Estimate

It is best to get estimates from a number of different auto body shops. After your first estimate, show their estimate to the second shop and the third shop, and ask how they match up against the first auto body shop’s quote. You may find that one or the other is skipping over a lot of important items. Don’t merely compare the final estimated cost, since one auto body shop may be quoting for an entirely different method of repair than the other. You’ll want an auto body shop that's both thorough and friendly.

Do Not Be Willing To Settle

Do not settle for anything less than totally new factory-original parts for your vehicle, and be sure to let the auto body shop know it. Of course, there are some jurisdictions where auto body shops can opt to utilize aftermarket or used parts, but those are generally not the way to go. Look at the work closely to make sure that your vehicle was restored to original condition by the parts used, or you have the right to ask for new parts. The shop managers should have no doubt that you are not willing to settle and that you want nothing but top-quality work. If you do not tell them that you won’t settle, there might be shoddy work done on your vehicle. That is why you need to look for qualities like thoroughness and friendliness in every auto body shop you consider.

Make Sure Everything Is Written Down

It used to be that you could trust people to live up to their word. Sadly, that’s just not the case anymore. There are key phrases that insurance adjusters and auto body shop people like to throw around like “totally cover the rental car,” “restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition,” and even “pay for everything.” Those words sound really great, but you will want to make sure that those kinds of things are all in writing. If you are talking to an insurance adjuster over the phone, follow up with an email so that you have a written record of what was promised by all parties involved. That will also make sure that everything is clear for everyone so all parties are on the same page. If you end up having to appeal a decision or call someone out for a broken promise, you will be glad that you got it all in writing.

These are only a few of the precautions that you ought to take whenever it comes to your next car repair. After all, your car is the second-largest investment you will make after your house, why not ensure that it is repaired right? If you've got any more questions about auto body repair or would like an estimate, get a hold of CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO to get the answers you need.

Auto Body Repair Basics For Your Next Collision

Automobile accidents are a regrettable fact of life for many people in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO. With scores of drivers on the road each day, a lot of them preoccupied by telephone calls, messy burritos, bad weather, or sleep deficiency, collisions are inevitable. Thankfully, the majority of accidents are relatively minor and no one gets injured.

But a minor accident can significantly damage the outside of your vehicle. Areas like the fenders and doors are especially prone to damage.

While it's generally the insurance company's job to get your automobile patched up and back on the road when this occurs, there are some things you should know in order to make certain that your vehicle is correctly fixed. Here’s some of the top auto body repair tips from the collision professionals, Carstar Arnold in Arnold, Missouri.

1. You can choose the auto body shop

It is true that your insurance provider could refer you to an auto body shop that they like. However, do not forget that you have the right to ultimately decide on where your vehicle is taken for its repair. You can’t really demonize auto body shops that the insurance provider recommends because most are really fine shops. There are a couple of bad ones out there that might do shoddy work. Those kinds of shops will reach out to the insurance people by promising to cut costs, but unfortunately they cut corners as well when it comes to the repair. Do not simply trust an auto body shop because it is the one that the insurance company told you to go to.

2. Avoid aftermarket parts

When you take your car in for auto body repair following a collision, you should inquire about the replacement parts which are utilized by the auto body shop. Auto body shops may use new original parts, used parts, or aftermarket parts. While used parts were made by your vehicle manufacturer and work as well as new original parts, aftermarket parts are often cheap imitations with inferior quality. These parts can corrode, rattle, and ultimately diminish your vehicle's value.

3. Carefully examine paint match

More often than not, you see vehicles on the road with body panels that do not match in color. Matching a newly painted body panel to the rest of your car is a difficult challenge, and quite often there can be a large, obvious difference in shade. When you pick up your automobile from the auto body shop, ask which panels are original and which ones were painted. Step back ten feet from the automobile and see if there's a difference in color. If there's, there may be additional paint work required to get a better match.

4. Check warning lights

After an accident, there are some warning lights that may turn on in your dashboard. These can include the airbag light, the low coolant light, the check engine light, and others. Whenever you pick up your finished automobile, make sure all of the issues have been corrected and none of the lights are illuminated. Illuminated lights can indicate that your automobile's on-board computer may need to be reprogrammed, or that particular electrical components need replacement.

Auto body repair is something that everybody in a collision needs to know about. If you'd like to find out more about this worthwhile subject, or if you would like auto body repair in Arnold, MO, visit CARSTAR Arnold.

Hail Damage Repair: Can You Really Do It Yourself?

A lot of people think that you can just take care of hail damage by yourself with no knowledge, tools, or experience. The internet is fraught with videos lauding the virtue of all kinds of home remedies, including hair dryers and dry ice. It should come as no surprise that so many people want to find the easy way out when it comes to hail damage dent repair. After all, even little dents in your new car can be detrimental for its value.

Sadly, the truth is they simply do not work. The men and women at CARSTAR Arnold have broken these DIY methods down one by one for you. CARSTAR Arnold would like the folks in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO to understand that there is not always an easy DIY solution for hail damage.

Sun Exposure

Some sources will tell you just parking your vehicle in sunny areas will cause the heat of the sun to remove the dents. Common sense most likely tells you that this will not solve your hail damage problem, and it won’t. Nevertheless, wikihow claims that one week of parking in warm sunlight will solve 90% of hail damage. Of course if this were the case there would be much less call for dry ice, hair dryers, and of course, professional dent repair.

Hair Dryers

This brings us to the hair dryer method. The idea is to apply additional heat the simple sun exposure cannot provide. Understand that as you apply heat you must watch to ensure you don't damage your car’s paint any further; if you see any discoloration, stop right away.

Dry Ice

You will read that dry ice can bang out the small yet significant dents caused by hail. Most sources will tell you to warm the area first with a hair dryer and then cool it quickly with the dry ice. It's this quick temperature change and the succeeding constriction of the metal which allegedly “bangs” the dent out of the metal. However, if you get this result at all, it won't be complete; you'll almost certainly be left with partial hail damage.

Dent Repair Kit

Now, presumably for the remaining damage which has not succumbed to the sun, your hair dryer, or solid carbon dioxide, you can take your chances with a dent repair kit. These include a tool for bumping in metal and a glue gun; sadly they can't impart any professional skill or expertise to whoever might be wielding them. Therefore you should use these with caution and do not try them with any larger dents or damage. It's also wise to realize that whenever you use a dent repair kit yourself you risk making the problem worse.

Leave It To The Pros

So, if nothing else really works and you’re stuck, must you go to an auto body shop? Maybe; in the end it is your call, but at least you know the damage will be fixed properly if you go to a professional. Will it cost you an arm and a leg? Not necessarily. A lot depends on the methods used. So how do auto body shops repair dents in the St. Louis, Missouri area then? There are numerous methods.

Remove and Replace

If the damage is serious and the parts which have been damaged are bolted on and can be easily removed, the remove and replace method might be the simplest way to go. In this case the parts in question are simply replaced.

Paintless Dent Repair

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is often used to fix hail damage. In this process the technician goes behind the dent with tools to massage out the dent leaving the paint surface intact. This technique demands a lot of practice and specified tools, so it is really not recommended for the do-it-yourselfer. It's especially effective for parts not easily replaced, such as roofs and quarter panels. Of all the professional techniques, it is the most cost effective. Actually, in locales where damaging hail is a frequent occurrence, it is the repair method most popular with insurance companies.

Finish Glazing

This strategy is good for little hail damage and is an alternative to PDR. Some people try this at home, outside the professional auto body shop; make sure you know what you are doing before you do.

The main advantage of this method is that you do not have to sand the paint all the way down to the metal; instead, you just sand it coarsely so that the glaze putty adheres properly. A related benefit is that the protective anti-corrosion coat from the factory is not removed during the repair because the paint is not sanded all the way down to the metal. Though of course this method is utilized to make repairs, other than the hail damage at issue your paint surface should be in good shape for this technique to work well.

Here’s how this process works. First, whoever is fixing the damage will have to clean the damaged areas well to locate all of the hail damage. The next task is to sand the damaged areas, generally using one hundred eighty grit paper on a dual-action sander. This step makes certain that the glaze adheres well to the car’s surface. After the sanding, it is best to use compressed air to blow all debris from the repair areas. Next, the surface should be cleaned again, this time with degreaser and wax. At this point it is time to apply a slim coat of the finish glaze to fix the small points of damage. Next comes another sanding session, with 150 or 180 grit paper on the dual-action sander. Lastly, the repair is done, and it is time to prime, block, and paint the freshly-repaired areas. Clearly, this is not a simple fix, but it looks good.

Traditional Repair with Body Filler

This technique is very very similar to the finish glazing technique with just a couple of exceptions. The primary difference is that you do need to remove the paint to the metal, and that your grind should be really coarse. Clearly anti-corrosion coating is an issue under these conditions. Very big dents cannot be repaired this way.

Traditional Heat Repair

For automobiles with larger dents and older cars made of thicker metal this is the method your auto body shop will have to go with. This technique utilizes heat, usually an oxyacetylene torch, to raise the metal. The technician heats up the metal surrounding the dent in a spiral motion working from the outside moving inwards; this will raise the metal. Next, to relax the metal, the technician taps with a hammer. Finally, he or she tests the metal to determine if it is level to check if the dent is gone. After the metal cools, it's time to feather edge the paint, prime, block, and paint the metal again.

The primary advantages here are that this method is the only one that works well for thicker metals and larger dents, and that for competent technicians it's quick and fast. It also gets rid of the filler and sanding filler steps. However, as most auto body shops will warn you, newer vehicles aren't always able to take this method because they are made of thin metals that can warp.

The Bottom Line

Unless you really know what you’re doing, fixing hail damage is no easy feat. The good news is that hail damage repair is probably covered by your insurance. Because average hail damage repairs range between $2,500 and $3,500, and can often go much higher, it's well worth making a claim for the repair. If you would like a professional opinion on your hail dented automobile, go to CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri. They have got plenty of experience using all of the latest dent repair methods.

A Step-By-Step Look At Paintless Dent Removal

Paintless Dent Removal, or PDR, has been becoming more and more popular because more people are finding it to be an effective and affordable alternative to getting small repairs done with more conventional methods. PDR provides a much better value than traditional dent repair methods and is a great way to tend to the condition of your vehicle’s exterior economically. Here’s a glance at how CARSTAR Arnold utilizes PDR to repair vehicles in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO.

What's Paintless Dent Removal?

Conventional dent repair fills auto body dents in with paint or auto body filler, which is then matched to the rest of the vehicle’s exterior. While this process can make a vehicle look as good as new, it doesn’t address the actual dent in a way that is a sustainable, long-term solution. It's also time-consuming, expensive, and may affect the re-sale value of the automobile.

With paintless dent removal, there are not any fillers and there is no sanding. PDR is an earth friendly repair method that restores your vehicle’s body to factory-like condition in a fraction of the time at a fraction of the price. PDR can be used to get rid of dings and dents from cars in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO, as well as auto body creases and hail damage. CARSTAR Arnold technicians use PDR to safely restore automobiles to their original factory condition without compromising a vehicle’s original painted finish, or a consumer’s pocketbook.

The PDR Process

Assess the Damage

The initial step to any repair procedure is to gauge the damage. Where is the dent? How large is the dent? How can we get to the dent? After evaluating the damage, and deciding how it can be effectively removed through PDR (as 80-90% of all dents are), we prepare the spot around the dent for the repair. Especially with hail damage, special equipment must be used to find all of the dents that might not be noticeable to the naked eye.

Gain Access to the Dent

Typically, PDR requires you to access the back side of the dent, which means cautiously removing body panels, tail lights, or in some instances, interior panels. To do PDR, you need a pathway to the dent.

Once we have access to a dent, it is time to perform the PDR repair. This is where the accuracy and expertise of our trained technicians comes into play.

Get A Better Look at the Dent

CARSTAR Arnold uses a special light board to offer our technician a better look at the offending dent from their point-of-view. The special lights allow us to get a clear look at all of the dent or dents so that nothing is overlooked.

Apply Slow Pressure to Work out the Dent

Special tools are then used to carefully massage the surface back to its original position.

Paintless dent removal is quicker, cheaper, and more effective than traditional methods in most cases. That is why you ought to go to CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri to deal with hail damage or other dents that could show up on your vehicle.

Be A Summer-Ready Driver

Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic will take their toll on your motor vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you may be poised for a breakdown. You can reduce the probability of auto mechanical problems with regular maintenance. By taking the recommendations of CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, MO, your vehicle will last for much longer and command an increased resale price, as well!

Many of the tips below are simple to do; others call for a qualified auto technician.

Air Conditioning

A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather. Have the system checked out by a qualified technician in the St. Louis, MO area. Newer models have cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner's manual for location and replacement interval.

Cooling System

The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The engine cooling system ought to be totally flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant ought to be examined periodically. A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water is usually suggested. DIYers, never take off the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled off! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses ought to be inspected by a professional like those at CARSTAR Arnold.

Oil

Many factors affect how often you need to switch out your oil and oil filter. The standard rule of thumb is every 3,000 miles, but some of the factors that might make you need to switch out your oil include making lots of short trips, making big trips with a lot of weight, or hauling a heavy trailer.

Engine Performance

This may sound like a daunting task, but it is actually very easy to take some simple steps to keep your engine working properly. The biggest thing that you can do besides oil changes is replace the filters. PCV, fuel, and air filters all have to be switched out every once in a while, particularly in dusty environments. Also do not forget to have an auto body shop immediately take care of funny noises and feelings, like hard starts, reduced power, stalling, and turbulent idling.

Windshield Wipers

It’s a bad idea have a dirty windshield. That could lead to eye fatigue after long trips on the road and ultimately it’s a safety hazard. Get rid of your blades when they get worn out and do not forget to keep plenty of windshield washer solvent on hand.

Lights

You’re going to want to keep your lenses clean of dirt and insects by cleaning them regularly. Don’t use a dry rag because that could actually scratch the lens. And do not forget to check all of the bulbs regularly to make sure that they are not burnt out.

Tires

Getting your tires rotated every five thousand miles to assure even rotation on them. Be sure to check your tire pressure every month. Also, when the weather gets colder, check them before you drive too far. Also, regularly inspect your spare tire and jack. Look for uneven wear on your tires, cupping, and tread life. Look for lacerations in the sidewalls. You should get your tires realigned if you discover uneven tread wearing or whenever your car pulls over to the side.

Brakes

Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Even minor brake problems ought to be corrected promptly.

Battery

Batteries can fail any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are detachable, check the fluid level monthly. Avoid exposure to corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Emergencies

Carry some fundamental tools — ask a technician for suggestions. Also include a first aid kit, flares, and a flashlight.

Travel Cheaper With These Gas-Saving Tips

While it is always wise to conserve natural resources, the cost of gas over the last couple of years has made even the most wasteful people think twice. Whatever your motivation, here are some gas saving techniques from the professionals at CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri.

• Keep track of your tires. Under-inflated tires or poorly aligned wheels waste fuel by pushing the engine to work harder. (Let the tires cool off prior to examining the air pressure.) Out-of-line wheels, as demonstrated by irregular tread wear, ought to be aligned by a professional.
• Eliminate extra weight. Remove unnecessary items from the automobile. Store only essentials in the trunk. Less weight means improved mileage.
• Combine trips and errands in the Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO area. Some trips might be unnecessary. Also, try to travel when traffic is light so you can avoid stop-and-go conditions.
• Avoid excessive idling. Shut off the engine while waiting for friends and family.
• Follow speed limits. Speeding decreases your gas mileage.
• Drive gently. Abrupt accelerations guzzle gas. Foretell traffic patterns in advance and adjust your speed gradually.
• Use windows and air conditioning carefully. Your mileage should improve if you keep the windows closed at highway speeds, because air drag is decreased. This holds true even with the air conditioning on - assuming that the system is in good working order. But turn the air conditioner off in stop-and-go traffic to save gasoline.
• Keep the engine of your car in top working order. A well-maintained engine functions at peak efficiency, maximizing gasoline consumption. Follow the service schedules listed in the owner's manual. Replace filters and fluids as recommended; have engine performance problems (rough idling, poor acceleration, etc.) fixed at an auto body repair facility. Given today's high-tech engines, it is best to have this sort of work carried out by auto technicians who are ASE certified in engine performance. CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri always utilizes ASE certified technicians.

These conservation tips won't only save gasoline, they will help extend the longevity of the car. If you have any further auto body questions, visit CARSTAR Arnold for the answers you need.

Spring Auto Body Rust Repair Tips

Auto body rust repair is a very common issue with older vehicles in the St. Louis, Missouri area. Dents or scratches can wear away paint and expose metal to the elements. Living in a snowy environment like what we come across in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO might also raise the possibility for rust damage, as road salt and other ice removal accelerants can result in rust damage in the long run. No matter how the rust formed, keep these rust repair tips from CARSTAR Arnold in mind to restore your auto body to like-new condition:

Inspect Your Vehicle’s Surface Carefully

The first step in adequately dealing with auto body rust is figuring out the extent of the damage. If you've got a vintage car, you might give consideration to going over all surfaces of your vehicle with a fine-tooth comb. This is because rust won't always materialize as dark-red discoloration. Rather, what you should be trying to find are little bubbles in the painted surface of the vehicle. If these bubbles can be found, it's likely that rust is hiding beneath it.

Removing Rust

Auto body rust repair is nearly always better handled by the auto body pros, like those at CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri. However, if you have some auto repair experience and the patch of corrosion is not any greater than four inches in diameter, then it could be possible to get rid of the rust yourself. To do this, you will want to use a sanding disc with 100-grit sandpaper on the affected region. Working gradually, sand away the rust, as well as the immediate area neighboring the corrosion. This will produce an even plane for paint adhesion.

Additional Sanding

When the rust has been gotten rid of, make sure you sand the area with consecutively finer grit sizes. For instance, another pass may include 120-grit sandpaper and a third pass might benefit from a 150-grit sandpaper. Once sanded finely, tack cloth is advised for getting rid of any metal or dirt debris.

Priming and Painting

Three to four light coats of self-etching primer are recommended for auto body rust repair jobs. Before priming, block off the encircling body paint by using newspaper and masking tape. Wait about 5 to 10 minutes before you apply each successive coat. Then, wait until the following day to put on the paint. Apply the paint in a similar, light-coated manner. After 5 to 6 coats, leave the paint to dry out overnight, then come back and remove the newspaper and masking tape. A wash and wax might be useful whenever the repair is finished.

Safe Driving On Dangerous Winter Roads

Cold conditions could easily create much of the harshest driving conditions of the year. And, months between October and February lead the list for auto accidents, auto damages and accidental injuries in the Arnold, Missouri area.

When the temperature plunges and the snow increases, it is critical for vehicle operators to raise their attention to safety on the road.  With adequate planning, some protective driving procedures and an eye on the weather report, vehicle operators can shield themselves and their motor vehicles during the long cold winter time.

The industry experts on winter weather driving calamities at CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri repair thousands of vehicles each year wrecked in wintry, icy catastrophes.  They give road users some helpful pointers to help with making winter time driving more safe.

Look At Your Visibility:

•   Make sure that any and all mirrors are clear and properly fine-tuned for field of vision
•   Clean your car headlights and check out the lightbulbs in all of the car lights – back and front
•   Add de-icer to your windshield wiper fluid
•   Make sure your windshield wipers are free of ice in advance of heading out on the highway – and think about upgrading with new flexible windshield wipers before the snowfall strikes

Go Slow and Stay Back:

•   Put extra distance in between your vehicle and the motor vehicle ahead of you for more safety
•   Don't involve the use of cruise control on icy roads
•   When you find snow or ice on the surface in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, or Jefferson County, MO, reduce the speed of your car to a safe limit
•   Use cautiousness on bridges, overpasses, and seldom traveled freeways since these may well be slippery due to ice
•   Use extreme caution when you're driving on one-lane roadways

Skidding Smartly

Should the rear wheels slip...
•   Bring your foot off the gas
•   Should you have standard brakes, pump them carefully
•   If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), don't pump the brake system. Apply regular pressure to the brake system. You are going to feel the braking system pulse — it's typical
•   Steer in the direction you will want the forward tires to go. If for instance the back wheels are moving left, steer left. If they're moving right, steer right
•   If your rear wheels get started on sliding the other way when you recuperate, ease the steering wheel in the direction of that side. You might have to steer left and right once or twice to get your vehicle completely under control

When your forward wheels skid...
•   Bring your foot off the gas and switch to neutral, but be sure not to try to steer at once.
•   As the wheels skid laterally, they're going to slow the motor vehicle and traction will return. As it does, steer in the direction you want to go. Then put the transmission in "drive" or release the clutch, and speed up slowly

Prepare for Snow:

•   If your car has rear wheel drive, put bags of sand or kitty litter to help keep your vehicle easier to control on Arnold, MO streets
•   Pack up a snow day kit in the event you get stuck.  Valuable items to include are a blanket, gloves, hat, water, granola bars, flashlight and additional battery packs, extra mobile phone battery pack, flares, wooden matches in water-proof carrier, compass, a pair of scissors, rope and first-aid kit.
•   Create a tool kit for digging your vehicle out with foldable shovel, 2x4 planks to position under tires, ice scraper and snow brush, reflective triangles, flares and exterior windshield cleaner
You can never be too cautious when getting behind the wheel in winter months. Crashes can occur quickly on slippery, slippery streets, so decelerating and making the extra precautions can really make the difference.

If the adverse winter accident does come about, we recommend having a crash plan set up so you won't be stranded on the roadside waiting for assistance.  CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri has top-notch, reliable repair service.  Just call 1-800-CARSTAR after you have an incident and they're going to send the tow truck, get hold of your insurer, arrange for a rental car and repair your vehicle.