Is Your Gas Pedal Stuck?

by Kathy on March 19, 2010

Recently, Toyota recalled over 5 million cars involving gas pedals that stick causing certain vehicles to accelerate uncontrollably.

With 52 reported deaths linked to runaway Toyotas, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced the Obama administration is considering requiring all cars and truck sold in the U.S. to have brakes that can override gas pedals.

So what do you do if your gas pedal sticks? Driving a car that is stuck in accelerate is an unimaginable task, therefore, here are five things you should do if you believe your gas pedal is stuck:

1. Do NOT pump the brake. Pumping your brakes can actually deplete the vacuum utilized for the power brake assist and make your brakes less effective.

2. Step on the brake pedal with both feet. Consumer Reports recommends applying firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal. Once your car stops, turn off the engine.

3. Shift your transmission into Neutral.

4. Turn your engine off if you are unable to put the vehicle in Neutral. Although this will not cause loss of steering or brake control, power assist to these systems will be lost.

5. Do NOT remove the key from the ignition. To turn off your engine, turn the ignition key to the ACC position. Do NOT remove the key from the ignition because it will cause your steering wheel to lock.

Source: Toyota Recall Website

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Hands-Free Voice Control with Ford SYNC

by Marcia on March 17, 2010

It is common knowledge that using your phone while driving and taking your hands off the wheel increases your risk for an accident. But, in some cases, avoiding distractions completely can be extremely difficult. Fortunately, with advancements in car technology, you may be able to minimize the amount of time spent without both hands on the wheel.

Introducing, Ford SYNC , Ford’s new in-car connectivity system that allows drivers to operate MP3 players and Bluetooth-enabled phones by the sound of their voice. On this episode of Vehicle Vibes Radio, host Marcia Hansen will speak with Andrew Sarkisian and Amy Matinac from Ford about the new SYNC technology and how it can help drivers stay safe on the road. Currently SYNC is available standard on all 2010 Lincoln models and select 2010 Ford and Mercury models.

SYNC Features include:
- SYNC Mobile: make calls, browse contacts, and listen to your text messages
- SYNC Music: control your MP3 player with the sound of your voice
- SYNC Info: receive turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic and news and more
- SYNC Safety: automatically connects to a 911 operator when airbags are deployed

Sarkisian is Ford’s safety strategy manager was also part of a team that launched Ford’s MyKey technology. Both Sarkisian and Matinac have a tremendous amount of experience in the auto industry and will be able to provide useful insights into how to keep you and your family safe on the road.

So tune into this episode of Vehicle Vibes Radio and learn more about Ford and Ford SYNC.

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New Fuel Economy Standards May Impact Your Wallet

March 15, 2010
gas pump nozzle

Last year, as more Americans became aware of the need for conservation and alternative energy, the Obama administration released a set of auto standards that would mandate an increased fuel economy and impose greenhouse gas standards on the nation’s cars and trucks starting with 2012 models.
Currently, California and about a dozen other states have similar [...]

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Don’t Let Your Luck Run out this St. Patrick’s Day—Add a Sober Driver to Your Party Checklist

March 12, 2010
Chicago River Green

For Americans of all ethnic backgrounds, there is no better reason for a celebration than Saint Patrick’s Day* and no better place to celebrate Irish heritage than in my home town of Chicago.
Chicago traditions for the day include two of the biggest parades in the U.S. and the dyeing of the Chicago River green. [...]

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The Case for Quiet Pavement

March 11, 2010
highway

For the millions of Americans who live near the nation’s highways and freeways, traffic noise is a huge problem. In addition to being an annoyance, traffic noise can also lead to hearing loss and other health problems.
In 2003, Arizona launched a three-year, $34 million Quiet Pavement project to re-surface 115 miles of Phoenix area freeways [...]

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Are you a motorcycle junkie? A Harley fan?

March 9, 2010
woman motorcyclist

Most people don’t understand the attachment bikers feel to their motorcycles until they become a rider themselves. The feeling of the wind in your hair and the adrenaline rush of a roaring engine as you ride your bike down the road, is a feeling that is hard to forget.
While motorcycling was once associated with the [...]

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Road Trip Safety

March 6, 2010
car smarts challenge icon

When taking a road trip, how often should you take a break?

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Beware of Aggressive Driving and Road Rage

March 5, 2010
Male driver showing fist

On my long commute back and forth to work, I often witness the ever increasing problem of road rage and aggressive driving. However, I have never heard of such an awful incident of road rage as I did recently.
On January 15, 2010, after two truck drivers were cutting each other off and having heated [...]

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Used Car Prices Expected to Decrease This Year

March 4, 2010
couple buying a car

If you’re thinking about purchasing a used car in the next few months, there may be good news for your wallet.
According to USA Today, used cars prices are expected to level off and possibly decline in 2010. In an analysis conducted by the National Automobile Dealers Association [NADA], new vehicle sales are [...]

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Child Car Safety: Buckle up Securely

March 3, 2010
Rear faving car seat

As your child gets older, he or she will need special types of restraints to keep them safe in the car depending on the age, weight and/or height of the child.
Currently all 50 states and the District of Columbia require safety seats for infants and children fitting specific criteria. However, only 47 states, including the [...]

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