Windshield Wipers

Wiper blades are crucial to safe driving. They are inexpensive and are worth their weight in gold in the winter. In the coldest winter months, old wiper blades can become hard, and brittle, and they crack or they just don’t work as they should.

Have your wipers inspected at least twice a year if you have any doubts as to their condition, change them!

The Battery

More batteries die in the winter than at any other time. Some batteries will give you a little warning ahead of time, such as slow cranking or electrical items, such as the GPS, acting a bit wonky. Other times, you will get zero warning that the battery won’t start the next time you try the motor.

While you can spot-check the terminals for corrosion, leave it to our team to check the strength of the battery. We will be happy to inspect the battery and the charging system. While no one can guarantee how long a battery will last, we can tell you if one of the cells inside the battery is weak or if there is a problem with the charging system.

Antifreeze

Antifreeze, also called coolant, only works if it was properly maintained and if it gets changed according to the manufacturer’s directions. The antifreeze needs to be flushed and replaced every few years depending on mileage and usage. If you need to top off in between flushes, properly mixing the correct color of antifreeze with water will keep it from freezing up in the winter.

If you’ve followed your car maintenance recommendations, chances are that the antifreeze is just fine, but it never hurts to check and see if the antifreeze is going to be able to take on a Chicago area winter.

Brake Pads and Brake Rotors

Depending on the type of rim your vehicle has, chances are that you can see them when your car is parked. If you see what looks like a large metal plate, platter or disc, that part is the brake rotor. The brake pads on your car are pressed against the brake rotor, sometimes called the brake disc, to stop the car. Depending on your year and model, you might have rear disc brakes as well.

While brake pads will wear out faster than a brake rotor, over time, the brake rotor will wear down far enough that it will need to be replaced.

Shocks, Struts, Steering, and Suspension

Make sure you are getting the best handling and control when you’re on the road. If your car is pulling to the left or right, there is a good chance you may need an alignment. Poor alignment is a much bigger issue when the roads are slippery because making more steering adjustments increases the risk of skidding.

Shock absorbers, commonly just called shocks, do what their name implies: They absorb the bounce and “shock” of the road. You feel far less of the dips, bumps, potholes, and speed bumps, which enables you to maintain control of the vehicle.

Struts are a crucial part of your steering and suspension system. While they do act like shock absorbers, they are vital when it comes to the car’s wheel alignment and they help keep the tires firmly planted on the road. In many cases, you will have struts on the front and shocks on the rear of your car or SUV. Some cars and light trucks have struts on all four wheels or even shocks all the way around, but chances are that you have two of each.

Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts, and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and other related components.

All Season Tires and Winter Tires

There are two major differences when talking about all-season tires and winter tires. The first is that winter tires have a different tread. The tread pattern on winter tires has multiple narrow cuts across the tread and these small cuts give a winter tire small, sharp edges that grip or bite into snow.

The second is that winter tires contain a softer rubber compound than all-season tires. Softer rubber means better grip. The harder rubber in all-season tires tends to become harder below freezing and slide around more easily.

The problem with all-season tires is that below 45 degrees, these tires tend to become less flexible which means that they don’t grip the road as well, and they can suffer a blowout simply from hitting a good-sized pothole (we know there are several in Chicagoland!!!).

Winter tires are much better suited to Chicago weather. They are designed to move snow and water using a compound that allows the tire to bite into snow and ice, giving you better traction.

Of course, we understand that not everyone has room to store winter tires or the money to buy these. However, if at all possible, consider putting a set of winter tires on your ride so you can really feel safe about driving this year.

We Want To Be Your Local Mechanic

Rest easy when you take your holiday road trip this year, knowing that you and your family are riding in a safe and well-maintained vehicle. If you need help winterizing your vehicle or if it’s simply time for your car, truck, or SUV to be serviced, you can trust the ASE-Certified professionals at My Mechanic to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape for the upcoming winter weather.

For even more convenience, My Mechanic has two locations to serve you, Elmhurst, and Clarendon Hills. Last, but not least, having a local mechanic that you trust means convenience you can count on. Remember to have your vehicle serviced and inspected at least two weeks before you plan to leave.

Call us today for an appointment and happy holiday driving!

The post Getting Your Vehicle Holiday Travel Ready appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

Perhaps you had considered a road trip this summer but wonder if high gas prices might cause you to have another staycation this year? 

Don’t worry! You can still enjoy a road trip this summer and not pay through the nose! Keep reading and discover our best tips for saving on gas, as well as fantastic national parks that are closer than you might think. 

Top Tips for Saving Gas

Saving gas is always a hot topic whenever gas prices climb. You can help keep your fuel costs as low as possible by using the following tips and advice: 

1. Consider an Electric Vehicle

If you’ve already been thinking about trading in your old car, consider whether or not an electric vehicle can save you money. You’ll need to know how much per kilowatt-hour your electric company charges and how many hours your selected vehicle costs you to recharge it. You should also know how many miles the vehicle will go in between charges. If your chosen vehicle only goes 100 miles but you commute 55 miles each way, unless you can charge it near your work, you should choose another vehicle. 

It’s interesting to note that a study from the US Department of Energy found that electric car owners saved as much as $14,500 on fuel costs if they keep an electric vehicle for 15 years. That’s just short of $1,000 a year, but it might be more since this study was done in 2019 when gas prices were lower than they are now. 

Some locations, such as hotels or grocery stores, offer free charging when you solicit their business. Taking advantage of these can add to your savings. 

2. Properly Maintain Your Vehicle

Too many people do limited or no maintenance on a vehicle until it breaks down. Simple maintenance such as tune-ups, tire rotation, keeping the proper air pressure in your tires, changing to synthetic oil, changing the air filter regularly, and following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule will go a long way towards making your car more fuel-efficient. 

The experts at My Mechanic can perform all of the above and show you how to properly maintain tire pressure. Call us today about our monthly special offers. 

3. Monitor Your Driving Habits

The fact is that the faster you drive, the more gas your car will use. Observe speed limits and avoid rabbit starts from a dead stop. Using cruise control on long drives will help save gas by avoiding fluctuations in speed. Use the “fast pass” lanes on toll roads. These help to eliminate slowing down or stopping to pay cash. Also, remember to avoid excessive idling. A good rule of thumb is that if your vehicle will be idling for one minute or less, leave the car running. If it is idling for more than one minute, turn off the motor. 

4. Driver Smarter

If you have more than one vehicle, use the smallest vehicle/engine for the job. For example, if you are a solo commuter and own both a V-8 SUV and a sub-compact car, take the sub-compact. If you are running errands, drive a circular route so that you don’t backtrack. When possible, drive to a central location and walk to your errands. 

5. Check Prices Before You Fill Up

Using an app such as Gas Buddy can help you keep track of where prices are lowest. Even 2 cents difference per gallon will make a difference over time, especially when you have a 25 -gallon gas tank to fill! 

Small steps like these can make a huge difference in your gas mileage and the price you pay for fuel. 

The Road Trip is Still On! 

If you thought that high gas prices would make a summer road trip impossible, check out these three national parks. All are within a 3-hour drive from Chicago and are filled with fun activities for the whole family. 

1. Indiana Dunes National Park 

A mere 60-minute drive from Chicago, if you haven’t been here, you’ll wonder why you waited so long. 

This national park has some of the most challenging hiking terrain in the Midwest. With beautiful views of Lake Michigan, you’ll see plenty of ponds, black oak forests, swamps, and dunes that make up a sandy beach. You can stop at the Albanese Candy Factory in Merrillville for some sweet treats or rent a beach house in New Buffalo, Michigan, and watch the kids play on the playground. 

2. Ice Age National Scenic Trail 

A short 2-hour drive will transport you back in time to when much of North America lay underneath a huge ice glacier. 

If you’ve got children who love dinosaurs, mammoths, and saber-tooth cats, this is the perfect summer vacation trip. 

There is a hiking trail that traces the glacier’s edge, along with nature walks, camping, biking, and horseback riding. 

The kids will love seeing the local wildlife and shooting stars at night while eating s’mores and telling ghost stories by the fire. 

3. I & M Canal National Heritage Park

This little jewel is just short of a 2-hour drive from Chicago and there is so much to see here, that you’ll want to spend more time than you had originally planned.

Back in 1848, a 96-mile canal (all dug by hand) was created to connect the heartland to New York and New Orleans. This canal was used by Native Americans, French fur traders, pioneers, and more. 

Today, this area includes the Isle a la Cache Museum, the Reddick Mansion, the Navy Pier, along with the I&M Canal Visitor Center, where you can take a mule pulled boat trip down the canal. 

Mom and dad can relax at some of the delightful restaurants, such as the Tallgrass restaurant or Nick’s Tavern, while the kids check out the Chicagoland Speedway or Lemont Quarry. 

There are so many terrific things to see and do that are very close to home. Plan your road trip and see the beauty of our national parks this year! 

My Mechanic is Here for You

At least two weeks before your trip, make an appointment for a summertime check-up with My Mechanic. 

We will be happy to inspect your vehicle, do any required service, and let you know if we see anything that might need replacing, such as belts, hoses, tires, or other items. 

Nothing will spoil a road trip faster than a breakdown, so a summer safety inspection is one of the cheapest ways to ensure your peace of mind this year. 

Call us for an appointment today so you won’t be sorry tomorrow. 

Safe travels and enjoy your summer! 

The post Higher Gas Prices and Summer Road Trips appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

The main problem with long road trips is that, unless your family is less than 2 hours away, everyone but the driver is going to get bored rather quickly.

This is especially true if you have children under the age of 10. Kids this age can spend about 1 hour sitting and another hour doing something (like watching a movie) but after that, they’ve got the proverbial ants in their pants, and they need something to do.

Even teens and adults can get bored on a long trip. After all, there are only so many movies you can watch!

Whether you’ve got teens, adults, or kids in your car and whether you are looking at a 3-, 6-, or 8-hour drive (or more!) you need some games and distractions.

Check out the following list of fun things to do to keep everyone engaged and entertained.

Top Tips for a Fun Road Trip

Keep in mind that everyone is different and what makes one person happy is NOT going to make everyone in the car happy.

Keep the ages of your traveling companions in mind if you should decide to try some of the following tips:

1. Make Playlists

Hopefully, everyone in your car is old enough to have their own source of music and a set of headphones.

Making up several playlists and perhaps making one for sharing (Christmas songs, for example) is one good way to keep everyone entertained with their own music. If you have a shared playlist, you can play it on the car speakers and have a sing-a-long.

2. Stop to See the Unexpected

The longer your road trip the better your chances will be of finding something wild, cool, or even a bit whacky.

Check online and search for “cool things to see near X”. You can try several different cities that you will be passing through.

Whether you get to see a small and little-known ice cave, the world’s largest whatever, a dinosaur footprint, or just a cool Route 66 restaurant devoted to Elvis or the Doors, spending a few hours walking around will help alleviate the boredom, as well as put an end to the old ants in the pants syndrome.

3. Old Fashioned Games

Some of the most memorable stories come from playing traditional car trip games, including:

• Counting the number of times, you see the word “Blue” (or chicken or whatever word you pick) on a sign or billboard

• Play the license plate game where someone picks a color or number or out of state plate and the first person to find that plate wins

• Describe a movie you’ve seen without using the actor or actresses name or the movie title and see if anyone can guess it

• 20 questions if you have little ones but if you have teens, limit it to 10 or even 7 questions

If you have several kids in the back (more than two) you might also play hot potato. Anything can be the potato, including a sock or a stuffed toy. Someone in front says go and the “potato” gets tossed from person to person. When the person in front says stop, the person holding the potato is the loser.

4. Follow That Sign

Especially when it comes to eating, picking out one of those infamous road signs (“Biggest Pastrami Sandwich in the World Served Here”) can be fun, especially for teens and adults.

Let’s face it, Denny’s and Mickey D’s gets old pretty fast. Try some of the local restaurants or other treats. If you see a sign that says Grandma’s Best Homemade Fudge- Free Samples, who can resist that?

5. Document the Trip

If you can have or if you can find one of those old Polaroid cameras, you know, the kind that would instantly spit out a photo, that will make this part extra fun but if not, take pics on your phone to print out later.

Kids 5-13 will love documenting their excursions. Get a large paper map (maybe several if you have lots of competitive kids) and let them trace the route they are taking. At every stop, let them take photos, maybe pick up an interesting rock or have them write a 100- word story, or let them draw a picture of something interesting that other people should know about where they were.

For example, if you stop near 6 Flags Great America, even if you don’t go inside the park, let your kids take photos and talk about which ride they would want to get on first and when they think they might be able to visit. Let them glue the photos to the map or you can let them make up a notebook (for those who love to write) to document their trip.

Other Tips for a Happy Trip

Of course, it goes without saying that you should keep a good supply of movies, snacks, blankets, and pillows on hand so that kids can choose that option if they need to.

Be sure that everyone has headphones that are in good working order so no one else is disturbed.

A super fun trip can be ruined in an instant if your car should break down. Avoid this possibility by having your vehicle serviced and inspected at least two weeks before you plan to leave.

The experts at My Mechanic will be happy to provide your vehicle with the best possible service and inspect every part of your car to ensure that your next road trip goes off without a hitch. If you need help winterizing your vehicle or if it’s simply time for your car, truck, or SUV to be serviced, you can trust the ASE-certified professionals at My Mechanic to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape for the upcoming winter weather.

Call us today for an appointment and happy holiday driving!

The Benefits of a Local Mechanic

Having a local mechanic that you can trust is worth your car’s weight in gold! The ASE-certified repair pros at My Mechanic will have more affordable prices than the dealership and chances are that our hours are much more flexible than the dealer.

For even more convenience, My Mechanic has two locations to serve you, Elmhurst, and Clarendon Hills.

Last, but not least, having a local mechanic that you trust means convenience you can count on.

The post 5 Terrific Tips for Getting More Fun Out of Your Holiday Road Trip appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

There is no maybe about tough winters in Chicago and the suburbs, which means that November is the perfect time to prep your car for the upcoming winter.

Did we mention that you may be taking a road trip to visit relatives this Thanksgiving? A great many people are looking forward to seeing family and friends this year more than ever. The last thing you want is to be stranded on the side of the road, waiting hours for a tow truck on the Wednesday before Turkey Day.

Top 5 Winter Car Care Tips 

You can probably find that ice scraper in the trunk or a side compartment but there’s a lot more to winterizing your car than finding that ice scraper.

Some of the best things you can do for your car, truck, or SUV right now include:

1. Clean Out Those Leaves

No, we don’t mean the leaves out of your rain gutters, but the reasons why you should clear out the leaves, twigs, dead bugs, and other debris are exactly the same.

Your vehicle has certain paths where rain and melting snow can run off of the vehicle and not back up and enter the inside of the vehicle.

If your car has a sunroof, be sure to open it and remove any debris from around the channels where the sunroof glass moves. You should also check the area directly underneath the windshield wipers. You may have to open your hood to see it clearly, but that plastic grate is where you get fresh air to defrost the windshield and it’s a magnet for all types of junk.

Last, be sure to check under the hood for animals who are planning on making your engine area a nest. If you have a truck or SUV with a spare tire mounted underneath, you might want to check that area as well.

2. Get Those Wiper Blades and Fluids Changed

Wiper blades are super important in the winter months and if you haven’t changed yours this year, it’s probably time to do so.

Some people recommend cleaning the blades with some vinegar or window cleaner but this doesn’t help very much in the long run. If your wiper blades are streaking or if they are hard, brittle, or if the rubber strip is coming off, it’s time to get new ones. Don’t forget those rear wiper blades if your vehicle has one.

You should also get the windshield washer fluid changed to a winter formula if you haven’t already. There are also products designed to de-ice the fluid if you should forget.

3. Get Your Battery Inspected 

More batteries die in the winter than at any other time. Nothing gives you that sinking feeling stronger than turning the key or hitting the start button and hearing no sound. Ugh.

While you can spot-check the terminals for corrosion, leave it to our team to check the strength of the battery.

Call or go online to set up an appointment to bring it to the pros at My Mechanic. We will be happy to inspect the battery and the charging system. While no one can guarantee how long a battery will last, we can tell you if one of the cells inside the battery is weak or if there is a problem with the charging system.

This inspection doesn’t take very long, and it can save you oodles of time and headaches. If your battery is more than 3 years old, why not call My Mechanic for an appointment right now while you are thinking of it?

4. Check the Antifreeze

Have you seen the “Flush and Fill” signs yet? These are referring to the antifreeze for your vehicle.

If you’ve followed your car maintenance recommendations, chances are that the antifreeze is just fine, but it never hurts to check and see if the antifreeze is going to be able to take on a Chicago area winter.

This is easy to check for the trustworthy mechanics at My Mechanic.

5. Check Your Emergency Kit

Everyone who drives a car should have an emergency or survival kit well-stocked and ready to use.

No matter how good you think your roadside assistance program is, a big accident on the Kennedy Expressway means you could be stuck there for hours in freezing temps.

Never let your gas tank go below half in case you need to run the heater in the car while you wait.

Some of the items to keep in your emergency bag include:

• Space blankets
• Plastic bags or bottles for gathering snow for water
• Snacks
• Phone charger or a backup source of power for your phone
• A flashlight
• Paper towels
• An old rug for traction or if you must lie on the ground
• Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
• Flares or reflective triangles
• If you have room, extra boots, gloves, and a hat

Everyone is different and if you or someone you are traveling with has different needs (medication that must be taken every few hours or an infant that needs formula) be sure to pack a few extra of whatever you or your companion might need.

My Mechanic Can Make Your Winter Safer

Our ASE Certified Mechanics have the time and the knowledge to give your car the winter once-over.

There are plenty of other items that you might want to check, including your tires, the exhaust system and muffler, the air filter, cabin filter, headlights and hazard lights, and many other items. This might sound like a long list of things to be concerned about and it can be quite time-consuming.

The professionals at My Mechanic know all about winter weather and what your car needs to keep it safe and on the road, not on the back of a tow truck!

We will be happy to inspect your vehicle and take care of any repairs or maintenance needs that it may have. Call us or go online today for an appointment and take some peace of mind with you when you take that Thanksgiving trip.

The post Don’t Let Winter Get in the Way of Your Vehicle and Travel Plans appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

Road Trips. 

With airlines having big problems being able to find staff, they are canceling flights right and left.

Who wants to sit on a stuffy, crowded airline anyway when you can hit the open road? Imagine finally being able to get out of the house and go wherever the road takes you?

We are betting that millions of people will be using their cars for this summer’s vacation.

Is that your plan as well?

There is one big tip that will help save you time, money, and major headaches: A safety inspection of your car, truck, or SUV before you head out the door.

The Best Tool You Can Use 

You may be using several “tools” to make this trip memorable. GPS, a list of national parks, an online booking site, maybe even custom-made playlists to suit the mood!

These are all terrific tools to help make things easy and ensure a great time is had by everyone, but how useful will any of those items be if your car breaks down along the way because you didn’t use the one readily available tool?

What tool is that? A pre-road trip safety inspection.

What Does a Safety Inspection Look At? 

Even if you’ve recently had the oil changed or if you think your vehicle is nearly new so everything should be fine, you should still take a few minutes to make an appointment and have the pros at My Mechanic inspect your vehicle.

The top items that tend to give people trouble on a road trip are (not necessarily in order):

• Battery- Believe it or not, more batteries die during hot weather than cold weather. Even if you believe that your vehicle starts just fine, keep in mind that temps in the 70s are not as harsh on a battery as temps in the 90s or even triple digits! We can do a quick inspection of your battery and tell you if it is up to snuff or if it is a weakling that probably won’t make the trip there and back.
• Tires- When was the last time you really bent or kneeled all the way down and inspected the entire tire tread? Sometimes, when the alignment is off or if something in the front suspension isn’t working right, it can cause problems that show up on the inside of the tire tread, which you usually cannot see unless you give your knees a workout. We will inspect your tires for unusual wear, worn-out tread, or problems such as bubbles or slipped belts.
• Brakes- This is another item that most people never give a second thought to unless the brakes start making noise. Inspecting the brakes is vital, especially if you plan on taking any mountainous roads or if you are towing anything. It’s easy for the mechanics at My Mechanic to inspect your tires and brakes at the same time. Imagine the peace of mind you will feel knowing that the brakes (and tires) on your ride are up to snuff.
• Belts and Hoses- Ugh. Is there anything more annoying than being stuck on the road because of something as simple as a broken belt or hose? These parts are easy to inspect and can be a real vacation saver if we spot one that is leaking or cracking and change it before it leaves you stranded.
• Lights and Wipers- While these may not seem like important items, keep in mind that you can be pulled over in all 50 states for having a burned-out light bulb. The pros at My Mechanic will inspect all the outside and interior lights, as well as the condition of the wiper blades. A torn wiper blade rubber portion can cause the metal wiper blade edge to scratch your windshield, not to mention make it difficult to see during a rainstorm.
• The Check Engine Light- the dreaded Check Engine light is about as annoying as a toddler with a squeaky toy. If your Check Engine light is on, don’t wait until you get back to have the problem resolved because you may find out that you can’t get back until you have the problem fixed!

We will also inspect all the fluid levels in your vehicle and top them off if necessary to give your car a good start on its way to vacationland.

A Few Other Tips

As a matter of safety, you might find these tips can make your journey more comfortable and safer.

• Pack an emergency bag with a flashlight, some batteries, a first aid kit, water, those aluminum blankets, and some snacks in case you should become stranded.
• Leave an itinerary with a trusted friend, neighbor, co-worker, or family member in the event of a worst-case scenario.
• A spare battery pack or solar charger for cell phones
• You may want to pack a set of jumper cables or a portable battery jumper
• Lightsticks are always a good idea since they last about 6 hours, and you can save the batteries in your flashlight
• A tow rope if you plan to go camping or head off the beaten path
• A tire inflator or a can of fix a flat are great to have in an emergency
• If anyone in your family takes prescription medication, most pharmacies will allow you to get your prescriptions filled about 2 weeks in advance, so you have plenty for your trip.

Make an Appointment Today

Don’t wait until the last minute or even the day before your road trip to get a safety inspection. If repairs or additional maintenance is needed that is time-consuming and involved, you’re going to want to leave enough time between the repairs and the trip to drive the vehicle for a couple of days to make sure there are no issues.

It’s always a good idea to make an appointment for your safety inspection about 2 weeks before you plan to leave.

This way, if parts need to be ordered, there is plenty of time to repair your vehicle and not interfere with your scheduled departure date.

Why not call us today while you are thinking about it? Our expert mechanics will be more than happy to inspect your vehicle so you can feel confident- at least about your vehicle- when you hit the road this summer.

The post Who Wastes Time with Safety Checks? You Should! appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

If you are doing the same, but you can’t bear the thought of a “staycation” in your house, you have probably thought of taking a nice road trip with your family.

It sounds great, doesn’t it? No crowded airports, planes, or tourist spots. Just the open road, a map, and few sweet outdoor destinations. You might even plan on camping to avoid germy hotels.

What If It All Goes Wrong?

We understand that feeling! No one wants to think about all the possible things that could go wrong on a road trip. However, you can save yourself from one disaster and end up with the road trip dreams are made of by doing one simple thing:

Have the air conditioning inspected and maintenance performed before you leave.

One of the Best Tips for Overcoming Road Trip Anxiety

Assuming you have already had your vehicle inspected or the maintenance performed, there is just one more thing to consider – the air conditioning.

No one, and we mean no one, wants to spend even half an hour, let alone a day’s drive in a car with lukewarm air conditioning. Or even worse, zero cold air coming through the vents!

We may not be able to help you pick the perfect camping spot, but we can assure you that if you get lost and your 4-hour trip turns into an 8-hour trip, you won’t need to spend it in a hot car.

More Than Cold Air

One thing most people don’t realize is that the air conditioning in your car is like adding a weighted backpack to a marathon runner. If the cooling system and air conditioning system aren’t working properly, you are asking for your car to overheat.

Wouldn’t that be fun? Sitting by the side of the road in an overheated car in 100 plus degree temperatures? Ugh.

Having the air conditioning system in your vehicle inspected will also keep you and your family healthy. Even if your ride is an older model, chances are that it has one or more cabin air filters. These filters trap and remove the dirty outside air, preventing dust, pollen, and bacteria from polluting the air inside your car.

These are routinely changed during an air conditioning maintenance inspection. Changing the cabin air filter regularly will help to prevent allergic reactions. It will also keep the inside of your car cleaner.

You can make your road trip almost headache-free by performing a vehicle inspection, as well as servicing the air conditioning before you hit the open road.

Notice we said “almost” because of course even we can’t guarantee that you will love the places you have chosen.

Best Road Trip Ideas Within a Day’s Drive of Chicago

Unless you are seriously pressed for time, you most likely want to avoid the awfully close and usually crowded parks such as Maggie Daley, Lincoln Park, and Starved Rock.

**It’s best to call ahead to see who is open and any special requirements for entry, such as a face mask. A few places that you might enjoy visiting that are within a 6-hour drive from Chicago include:

1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This is one of America’s newer parks. It was given national park status back in 2000. Cuyahoga Valley sits right in between Akron and Cleveland Ohio. There is so much to do and see here.  Best of all, it is often uncrowded. You can reach this park in about 5 hours from Chicago.

Check out Tinker’s Creek Gorge, then walk over to Bridal Veil Falls. The Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail run alongside the canal that was once used to transport goods until the railroads took over. Brandywine Falls is another great water feature. If you aren’t all that keen on camping, there is a fantastic bed and breakfast nearby.

2. Saugatuck, Michigan

A short two-and-a-half-hour drive will get you to this small town that boasts a sweet state park (Saugatuck Dunes State Park). It has about 14 miles worth of hiking and walking trails. There is also a secluded beach along Lake Michigan that you will want to check out.

Again, if camping isn’t your forte, there are plenty of hotels nearby.

3. South Haven, Michigan

This is one tow that is aptly named! Before your kids can finish a movie, you can drive to South Haven and enjoy small-town life that includes a Maritime Museum, a century-old lighthouse, and fantastic Lake Michigan. It’s perfect to soak up some sun or enjoy the multitude of water sports.

4. Door County, Wisconsin

In between Lake Michigan and Green Bay, Wisconsin lies Door County, Wisconsin. If you are looking for some R&R, fishing, and a bit of camping, you can’t beat Door County. The area encompasses 3 state parks, including Newport, Peninsula, and Potawatomi. All these parks have expansive beaches and water sports, as well as camping opportunities and hiking. All of this within a reasonable 5-hour drive.

Stop at one of the many lighthouses in this area and you won’t want to pass up the roadside stands that sell freshly picked cherries. Bailey’s Harbor is something wine lovers won’t want to miss. Also,  Stone’s Throw Winery has wine tasting and live entertainment most weekends.

5. Carbondale, Illinois

We don’t want to leave our own terrific state out of the loop, do we? Carbondale is about a 5.5-hour drive. You can get the best of both worlds with camping at Giant City State Park or you can head over to Shawnee National Forest, where there is a wide variety of wineries to choose from. With more than a dozen parks in this area, you are sure to find something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Regardless of which direction you plan on going, you will have some real peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is in tip-top condition.

Plan on having your car, truck, or SUV inspected and the AC serviced about 2 weeks before your vacation. This way, if parts need to be ordered, you should have plenty of time to have your vehicle repaired so you can hit the highway on your set vacation date.

Contact My Mechanic today for an appointment! We are open and ready to prepare your ride for the road trip of a lifetime.

The post How to Save Yourself from a Disastrous Road Trip appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

Family road trips can have much less drama now thanks to all the things you can take with you to entertain the troops. But that doesn’t mean everyone has to have their face stuck in a screen the whole time. Find time while traveling to reconnect. These car games and activities are a great way to make some great travel memories with your kids.

Car Games and Activities for Kids Ages 2-5

Simon Says

Simon Says was a game that was fun before the iPad and DVD came along, and it is still engaging today. Someone is assigned to be “Simon” and they direct everyone to perform some action. Simon begins by saying, “Simon says….,” followed by something like “touch your head.” If they say Simon Says, then everyone should do it. But if they direct everyone playing to do something without the introduction of, “Simon says,” whoever does it, is “out” until the next round of play begins.

I Spy

You begin I spy by saying, “I spy with my little eye…,” and then follow it with a description of the object that you are thinking of. For instance, if you are thinking of a stop light, you would say, “I spy with my little eye something that has three colors and blinks.” Then allow everyone to ask questions to guess what is on your mind.

20 Questions

For 20 questions, the person who is “it” thinks of an object. You can play one-on-one or with several people. Whoever is guessing has a combined number of 20 questions they can ask to figure out what the “it” person is thinking. But the questions can only be yes or no answers. If the guesser(s) can name the item in less than 20 questions, they are the winner. If not, then the person who is “it” is the winner.

Car Games and Activities for Preschool Aged Children

Bingo

You don’t have to spend any money on a bingo card when you can make one that is a whole lot more fun! Before you hit the road, create a bingo sheet that has your child’s favorite images on it. Take the same images and place them each on an individual piece of paper, then put those papers in a hat. On the road, pick the images from the hat, and call out what is on what you have picked. It is a great way to enhance your child’s listening skills and help them learn how to follow directions. Whoever gets four images across, or four down, first, wins the game. And the best part is you can play again and again.

Ruby Red

Every time someone in the car spots a red car, they yell “ruby red.” The first to say it earns one point. At the end of the trip, whoever has spotted the most red cars wins the game. Or, to advance the game a little, make a “scavenger hunt” list of things that everyone has to look for. Keep a tally of how many different objects each person can spot. Whoever can find the most things on their list of “to-finds,” wins the game.

How Many Can You Find?

To keep your child’s attention off the screen and focused on seeing the journey well-traveled, play the game, “How many can you find?” Think of an object like a stop sign or livestock, and each time someone finds one, have them count it aloud.

Car Games and Activities for Kindergarten to Middle School

The Storytelling Game

Get those creative juices flowing by playing the storytelling game. Begin with the sentence, “Once upon a time…,” and then go around the car letting everyone tell the next sentence to the story. Depending on the mood of the car, your story can get super funny and outlandish, really quick. But if things get out of hand, you can always jumpstart to a new story and being again. For some additional learning, have your children write down the story as you go. When the vacation is over, they will have a story to read at bedtime. It will give you a chance to reminiscence about the good time you had together.

I’m Going on a Picnic

Begin the game with the phrase, “I’m going on a picnic, and I am going to bring….”. Then, the person who goes first has to say an item that begins with the letter A. The next player has to begin the entire sentence by saying, “I am going on a picnic, and I am going to bring…” followed by the A item just recited, and then adding a “B” word item to the list. The next in line has to continue by starting with, “I am going on a picnic, and I am going to bring…,” followed by both the A and the B item, and then adding a “C” word item. The game continues until someone forgets an item. Or, until the car has gone from A to Z, reciting all the items in succession.

Car Games and Activities for Ages 10+

Definition Debacle

Lookup a random, complicated word in the dictionary, and then make up three different definitions of what the word means. Have everyone guess which of the definitions is real and which one is a fib. The person who guesses correctly wins the round, and they are the next to find another word and create three new definitions.

How Many States Have Passed by?

Hand each person a piece of paper, and every time they spot a license plate from a different state, have them write down the state’s name. At the end of the trip, tally up and see who spotted the most license plates from different states. They are the winner.

There are a lot more ways to stay entertained on a trip these days, but don’t let electronics dominate the entire trip. Getting there is half the fun. Build memories along the way and spend some time reconnecting with your kids.

Before you hit the road to play games, make sure your car is in top shape to keep everyone behind the wheel safe. Contact My Mechanic today to schedule your pre-trip service.

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Prepare Them for the Road Ahead

If your pet isn’t similar with being in the car, it can be very stressful and traumatic! Before heading out for a long journey, try a series of short distances so your pet becomes familiar with the vehicle and being in motion. Not only will it help to prepare them to know what the routine is, it will help you know if they have a problem with motion sickness. This way, you can prepare them before you’re all packed up and on your way. 

Keep Your Pet Restrained Properly

You wouldn’t let your children run around the car unattached, and it is just as dangerous to let your pet roam free. Just like a human, if your pet isn’t restrained when a car stops suddenly, they are not going to stop. That can be dangerous for your pet and everyone in the car. Make sure that your pet is properly restrained with a harness, pet carrier or other safety device. Consult with your veterinarian to find the safest options. Also, don’t let your pet put their head out the window. It might seem like they really enjoy it, but it is not good for their ears.

Pet Travel Safety Tips to Anticipate Everything

The key to a good road trip is preparing. That includes anticipating all things pet-related. Make sure to bring along food, clean-up bags, grooming supplies, medications, a bowl for water, their bed or blanket, and their favorite toy or comfort object.

Dogs can get dehydrated quickly, so keep a water bowl handy. Then when you get out to stretch your legs, take them for a quick walk and allow them to drink. Make sure to bring bottled water for them. If you use water from a tap that they aren’t familiar with, it can lead to an upset stomach, which will be miserable for everyone in the car! And don’t feed your pet in a moving vehicle, or you can have a real mess on your hands. Although you don’t want their feeding schedule to get off-track, building it around your stops is best for everyone.

Never Leave Your Pet Unattended

If you stop along the way, don’t leave your pet in the car unattended. If it is hot outside, opening the window will not be enough for them to cool down for any length of time. And if it is cold outside, you wouldn’t want them to freeze. Rule of thumb: Don’t leave your pet in the car for any longer than you would a child. They aren’t any more resilient to hot or cold temperatures. And leaving them locked up posses the same dangers to them as it would an infant.

If you are taking the whole family on a trip this holiday season, planning ahead can make sure you have a smooth trip without any unwelcome surprises. And before you head out on the open road, schedule an appointment at My Mechanic for a vehicle inspection to ensure its safe and ready for the trip ahead.

The post Traveling With Your Pet This Holiday Season? Pet Travel Safety Tips appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

Summer vacation is quickly approaching, and if sandy beaches are not on your radar this year, don’t fret. There are a ton of great Midwest destinations that will please the entire family. You don’t have to go far to find fun: Sometimes it is just a matter of getting out of your element and trying something new!

These great destinations are close by, packed with activities, and offer good wholesome fun for all! Which one will inspire you? Get your bags packed, make your reservations, and hit the open road for some summer vacay-time.

Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park – Missouri

For the family that likes outdoor adventure, check out the magnificent Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park in Middle Brook, MO. You can spend your time hiking and pitching a tent to sleep under the stars. The scenery is amazing, including the rock formations that date back billions of years. All of those rocks create a natural water park and waterfalls to kick off your shoes and hop right in. The best part of vacationing in Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is that it is one of the least expensive ways to vacation, while also being one of the most fun-filled. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Boyne Mountain – Michigan

Also for the adventure seekers, Boyne Mountain has it all. Located in Northern Michigan, it is an excellent ski resort during the winter. But as the weather begins to heat up, you can enjoy boating and fishing on Lake Michigan, biking, and hiking. Because Boyne Mountain is a lesser-known gem in the Midwest, you won’t have to fight off large crowds. You can take everyone on a ziplining tour, which is both exhilarating and terrifying! And be sure to save one day for the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark. It is the largest indoor water park in Michigan and is worthy of an entire day.

Sandusky – Ohio

Another hidden gem that is full of excitement is Sandusky, home to Cedar Point Amusement Park. The park is considered the “roller coaster capital of the world” and was voted “Best Amusement Park in the World” by USA TODAY. Sandusky is about an hour and a half from Cleveland, and it is also widely popular for swimming and sailing on Lake Erie. After perusing the Amusement Park, hit the white, sandy beaches for a day of fun and sun. And then retire at one of the many indoor water park resorts and watch the kids enjoy while you sit back and relax. A vacation in Sandusky might have you on the go constantly, so expect to need a vacation from this vacation!

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Sheboygan, WI has been a popular vacation destination in the Midwest for decades. For the family that wants to vacation on a budget, it is rated one of the least expensive vacation spots, but you don’t have to sacrifice on the fun! Take the kids sailing, boating, or fishing on Lake Michigan. Grab a bucket and a sand pail and hit one of the spectacular beaches. The Above & Beyond Children’s Museum has hands-on interactive attractions your little ones will love. Or, hit the Sheboygan Railroad Museum to see things that go. Sheboygan is a great combination of things to do and activities to engage in. And it won’t break the bank, which is key to many growing families!

Bloomington, Minnesota

Just 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis is the city of Bloomington. It rests on the bank of the Mississippi River and is loaded with fun things to do! For the die-hard shopper, the Mall of America has all the most popular stores combined with an amusement park and an aquarium. So the entire family will find something they love in one place. The Nickelodeon Universe will delight your Nickelodeon fans! And the Minnesota Zoo has some of the most exotic animals around the globe. If you want to spend a day communing with nature, Minnehaha Park is an excellent way to escape to lush parks and bike riding trails. Bloomington has the best of commercialism along with outdoor fun, making it a perfect destination for the family who likes the best of both worlds.

You don’t have to go far away or spend a fortune for a fabulous summer vacation. But before you head out, be sure to have your vehicle checked over by the team here at My Mechanic. We’ll ensure that you and your family are safe and that your vehicle is ready to get you to your vacation destination!

Need an oil change or road trip check? Schedule an Appointment

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