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5 Essential Measures To Take For Flood-Damaged Cars

January 10, 2023 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

No driver expects to find their trusted car submerged in flooded waters. An unexpected influx of flood water into your vehicle is never a pleasant surprise. Promptly addressing water damage to your car can help prevent potential escalation of damage to your car as it sits in salty or muddy waters. Even ‘minor’ floods can cause significant damage to the interior and exterior of your car and present a myriad of issues ranging from electrical damage to unpleasant odors. Today, we discuss five essential steps to take for flood-damaged cars.

Can Flood-Damaged Cars Be Saved?

Depending on the severity of the damage, an experienced mechanic can repair a car that suffered flood damage from fresh waters. Saltwater can cause irreparable harm to vehicles, and there is no way to successfully salvage a car flooded with salt water.

Automotive flood damage occurs when a vehicle has been partially submerged in waters to the degree that significant damage can be found in the engine, safety features like airbags, and transmission. Repairs may be possible for vehicles with moderate flood damage, but unfortunately, many vehicles see their untimely demise due to catastrophic floods.

This guide highlights five crucial measures to focus on if your car has sustained flood damage.

is a flooded car totaled1. Inspect The Visible Damage

Take a moment to quickly address the immediately apparent damage suffered while keeping a keen eye out for moisture, rust, and mildew odor.

2. Do Not Attempt To Start Your Car

If there is still water within the engine, you can safely assume it has also breached the intake tract and exhaust valve cylinders. Turning the ignition with such considerable moisture in the engine may increase the damage beyond the point of repair.

3. Remove Excess Moisture

Removing as much moisture as possible during this initial surmising stage is imperative. Excess moisture in the interior fabric leads to mold and mildew. It’s most effective to use a combination of techniques, such as a shop vac, moisture-removing packets or hangers, and fans.

Water can wreak havoc on vehicular electrical systems, affecting automatic braking systems and the power controls responsible for locking the doors and opening windows. Several water-based issues will not be visible, so be sure to take notice of the aroma of mold and mildew.

4. Air Out Your Car

If the conditions allow, open each of your car doors and windows. A consistent source of airflow throughout the vehicle can dry out your car, prevent further mildew and mold, and hopefully eliminate some of the odors that have built up. Ensure you have removed all carpets and floor mats to accelerate the drying process. Circulating air fans are an option if the conditions outside the vehicle are rainy and damp.

5. Have Your Car Towed For Inspection

Now that you have surmised the condition of your flood-damaged car, it is time to hand the matter over to a professional. If your vehicle has incurred water damage due to flooding, have your vehicle towed to a reputable auto shop for an inspection. There, a trained mechanic can determine if your vehicle can be salvaged and returned to road-worthy condition and gauge whether reversing the water damage would be a wise or cost-effective solution.

Car Inspections, Repairs, and More At T3 Atlanta

Taking the time and resources to properly care for and maintain your trusted vehicle goes a long way toward its long-standing performance and safety. T3 Atlanta offers affordable and efficient services for Lexus, Nissan, Toyota, and Infiniti drivers. Our team can review and gauge the cost of flood and water damage. Give us a call to have one of our award-winning mechanics care for your vehicle today!

Filed Under: Car Tips, Travel Tips

Car Stuck In The Mud? Now What?

December 18, 2022 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

From unpaved lots bordering nature parks and hiking trails, grassy fields acting as festival parking, off-roading adventures that went off the rails, or even unpredictable weather systems dropping heavy rain in a short span, each of these circumstances can leave you inconvenienced and out of luck. This handy guide spotlights the possible methods if you find your car stuck in the mud.

Car Stuck In The Mud? Do’s and Don’ts

Take a Moment to Evaluate the Situation and Survey the Damage

When attempting to get your vehicle out of this predicament, the most important thing to remember is not to panic. Try to keep your sense of calm, assess the situation, and create a strategic plan for you and any passengers to evacuate the vehicle. Once you have safely navigated your way out, it will be much easier to gauge the severity of the situation and potential damage to your car.

The Rocking Method

This handy trick may help you when your car is in shallow mud. Begin with a slight acceleration forward, then shift into reverse and attempt a similar movement backward, being cautious not to initiate wheel spinning. The continuous rocking back and forth can accomplish enough momentum to get your vehicle out of the mud.

The Car Mat Technique

Believe it or not, your stylish car mats can quickly become a tool for regaining traction in slippery, muddy conditions. Use a jack to elevate the tires before placing a car mat below and in front of the wheels. Place the mats in front of and around the driver’s side wheel for front-wheel-drive cars and near the passenger-side wheel for real-wheel vehicles. This technique should allow your car to gain sufficient momentum to escape the mud.

What Not to Do

Spin your Wheels

Most car tires tightly grip paved roads and highways and often struggle to gain traction while submerged in mud. Hastily slamming the pedal to the metal to avoid further sinking will only act to spin your wheels without traction, digging you deeper into this mess. Ease off the gas pedal immediately if you get the impression your car is stuck in the mud.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Assistance

Asking for help getting your car out of the mud might be initially embarrassing. Still, you have a greater chance of getting yourself out quickly with someone outside the vehicle offering direction and guidance.

Finding yourself behind the wheel of a car stuck in the mud can make for an unpleasant experience. Still, you can circumvent some of the anxious discomforts of events like these by knowing your vehicle is in good condition and well-maintained. Pay attention to the scheduled upkeep of your car to make matters better during unexpected emergencies.

Car Repair And More At T3 Atlanta

T3 Atlanta recommends that every car owner routinely schedules maintenance and service to ensure the optimal performance of their vehicle. Keeping up to date with the service schedule can severely decrease the power and performance, potentially leaving you and your passengers vulnerable in an emergency.

If you drive a Toyota, Nissan, Infiniti, or Lexus in the Atlanta area, give us a call today. Our team can keep your car running smoothly and your confidence sky-high with the peace of mind that you and your passengers are in good hands.

Filed Under: Car Tips, Travel Tips

What To Do If Your Car Gets Stuck In Floodwater

December 6, 2022 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Thunderstorms continue to be one of the most prominent natural disasters throughout Georgia. Depending on your area of residence, Georgia sees rainfall on a year-round basis. Typically caused by severe storm systems unleashing vast amounts of rain over a short period, flash floods often appear without warning signals. Floodwaters surge downhill, leaving rural areas and cities vulnerable to significant damage. Read on to learn what to do if your car gets stuck in floodwater.

What to do if you encounter flood waters while driving

Flood warnings often are typically only broadcast once the flooding has already begun. If you observe flood warnings while driving, your most urgent priority should be getting out of your car and finding higher ground on foot. If this is not an immediate option, remember to remain calm and avoid panicked thoughts.

Unfasten your seatbelt, unlock your car doors, then engage your hazard and headlights as a signal, alerting emergency personnel of your location. Slowly open the windows and, if able, crawl out of your car. If you are unable to open the windows, you will need to wait for the water pressure to stabilize before being able to use the door to escape.

Once you can exit the car, swim to safer grounds as soon as possible and immediately call 911 if there is no one to assist you. Finding dry land as quickly as possible is crucial because even 6 inches of moving water can be powerful enough to knock many adults over.

What not to do if your car gets stuck in floodwater

First and foremost, do not panic. Take a moment for a deep breath, and try not to burn precious energy on distressed or frightened thoughts. Forget about valuable possessions inside the car and save that 911 call for once you’ve found dry land. Your total focus should be centered entirely on your safety at this moment. If you attempt to break open your car window before the water pressure has yet to equalize, broken glass can flow inwards toward you or your passengers.

Once you have safely exited the vehicle, immediately find higher ground. If you believe water levels have dropped to manageable levels, do not return to your car because flood waters could rise again without notice.

Can you avoid getting stuck in floodwaters?

Residents throughout the low country or those living near large bodies of water are especially at risk for flooding in their communities. Your safety is paramount if your town is experiencing a flood, and no one is longing to be behind the wheel of an automobile in the middle of a disaster. However, proper preparedness can help you keep your wits under pressure and survive a flood in your car.

Avoid large pools of water on the road if you suddenly find yourself caught in a flood or flash flood, as gauging the depth of water on the street is nearly impossible, especially at night. A 6-inch puddle of water can result in power loss and costly damage to your vehicle, while waters 1 to 2 feet deep are powerful enough to jettison most cars from the road. This guide examines the valuable safety measures you can take to prepare yourself better if you are caught by surprise by flooded waters while driving.

Car Repairs And More At T3 Atlanta

In theory, we can all avoid a flood by keeping up with daily weather forecasts, but flash floods are erratic and hard to predict. Knowing your car is prepared for harsh weather conditions can instill valuable peace of mind while behind the wheel. T3 Atlanta has kept Lexus, Infiniti, Nissan, and Toyota drivers safely on the road since proudly opening our doors in 1994. Make an appointment by giving us a call today!

Filed Under: Car Tips, Travel Tips

5 Ways To Prevent (And Treat) Car Sickness

July 19, 2022 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Many people experience car sickness, especially during long trips. While there are several ways to prevent it, some people still find themselves dealing with this issue. If you’re one of those people, don’t worry – there are ways to treat it as well. In this article, we will discuss what car sickness is, why it happens, and five ways to prevent it from happening. We will also discuss how to treat car sickness if you do experience it.

What Is Car Sickness and What Causes It?

Car sickness is a condition that causes nausea and vomiting when people travel in vehicles. It can be caused by many things, including motion, changes in scenery, and stress.

The symptoms of car sickness can vary from person to person, but they typically include:

  • Dizziness
  • Sweating
  • Headache
  • Upset stomach

Car sickness is not severe for most people and will go away on its own after a few minutes or hours. However, some people may experience more severe symptoms that require treatment.

Who Gets Car Sickness?

Car sickness can affect people of all ages but is more common in children than adults. It is also more common in women than men. Several factors can increase your risk of car sickness, including:

  • Having a history of motion sickness
  • Being pregnant
  • Suffering from anxiety or depression
  • Having inner ear problems

5 Ways to Prevent Car Sickness

Car sickness is a common problem for many people, especially when traveling on long journeys. The symptoms, including nausea and dizziness, can be highly unpleasant and lead to vomiting. Many different factors can contribute to car sicknesses, such as motion sickness, dehydration, and hunger. These steps can help prevent nausea from taking hold.

  • Avoid eating or drinking before you get in the car – One of the most common triggers is gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), which occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. One way to help prevent car sickness is to avoid eating or drinking before getting in the car. This helps to reduce the risk of GERD, as well as other digestive problems such as indigestion. Additionally, it is crucial to stay hydrated during the journey by drinking plenty of water or other non-alcoholic fluids.
  • Keep your head still and don’t look out the window – Carsickness is a common problem, especially for young children. When you look at objects moving past you, your brain gets confused and doesn’t know how to process the information. This can lead to nausea and vomiting.
  • Focus on something in the distance – Car sickness often occurs when the inner ear and the eyes send different messages to the brain about movement, causing dizziness and nausea. One way to prevent car sickness is to focus on something in the distance. This helps the brain to receive consistent signals about movement, reducing the feeling of dizziness.
  • Breathe deeply and evenly – As mentioned above, it is a common belief that car sickness occurs when the inner ear and the eyes send mixed signals to the brain about movement. The inner ear senses movement, but the eyes see a stationary horizon. Therefore, to prevent car sickness, it is essential to focus on an object in the distance and breathe deeply and evenly. Taking deep breaths helps to keep the inner ear oxygenated, which in turn prevents nausea. Additionally, deep breathing can help relax muscles and reduce tension headaches. Finally, deep breathing helps to slow down the heart rate, which can also help to reduce feelings of nausea.
  • Take breaks during your trip to stretch your legs and get some fresh air – One tried-and-tested way to help prevent car sickness is to take regular intervals. Getting out of the car and stretching your legs will help break up the journey’s monotony, and getting some fresh air can help clear your head. It also “resets” your body, making it forget the feeling that made it sick in the first place.

Keep Your Car Running Smoothly With T3 Atlanta

T3 Atlanta is dedicated to keeping your car running smoothly. Whether you’re dealing with minor issues or major repairs, we’re here to help. Our expert technicians are available 24/7 to help you with your Nissan, Infiniti, Lexus, and Toyota cars. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Filed Under: Travel Tips

What Makes A Good Driver?

June 7, 2022 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

There are many qualities that make a good driver. One of the most important is being aware of your surroundings and what other drivers are doing. You also need to be prepared for anything, so knowing how to handle your car in different situations is crucial. In addition, having patience and courtesy on the road goes a long way. Finally, regular car maintenance is essential to keep your car running well and avoid accidents.

What Makes a Good Driver?

We all know the feeling. You’re driving along, minding your own business, and someone cuts you off without so much as a blinker. Or maybe you’re the one who made the sudden maneuver because you were distracted for just a second. In either case, it probably left you feeling angry, frustrated, or even scared.

But what separates a good driver from a bad one? Is it simply following the rules of the road? Is it being cautious and aware at all times? While those are essential qualities, there’s more to being a good driver than that. Here are five key traits of good drivers and how you can improve your driving habits:

1. Awareness

Being aware of your surroundings is essential to being a good driver. Not only do you need to be mindful of other vehicles on the road, but you also need to be aware of pedestrians, bicyclists, and animals.

Paying attention to your surroundings also means being aware of changes in the weather and road conditions. For example, if you see a storm brewing, you can adjust your driving accordingly. And if you see that the roads are icy, you know to slow down and drive with extra caution. In short, being aware of your surroundings is an essential quality of a good driver.

2. Preparedness

Being a good driver requires more than just being able to control a vehicle. It also needs to be aware of potential dangers and be prepared to react quickly and effectively. One of the best ways to be ready for anything is always to have a plan B. For example, if you’re driving in heavy traffic and someone cuts you off, your first instinct may be to honk your horn or make an obscene gesture.

But what if that only makes the situation worse? Instead, it’s better to be prepared with a backup plan, such as changing lanes or taking a different route. By being prepared for anything, you can help ensure that you’ll always be a safe and effective driver.

3. Ability to Handle The Car In Different Situations

A good driver is not just someone who can steer a car in a straight line. They need to be able to handle the vehicle in all sorts of different situations. This means controlling the car at high speeds, on slippery surfaces, in heavy traffic, and poor weather conditions.

Remember that road conditions can change abruptly. One minute you have the sun out, and the next, the rain might come crashing down, making the road much more dangerous.

4. Patience and Courtesy on the Road

Patience and courtesy are two essential qualities that all drivers should possess. Being patient behind the wheel can help to prevent road rage and accidents. Likewise, being courteous to other drivers shows respect and can make the roads a more pleasant place for everybody.

We can control our emotions and stay calm in stressful situations when we are patient. This is especially important when driving, as road conditions can be unpredictable and frustrating. By remaining patient, we are more likely to make wise decisions and avoid dangerous mistakes.

Similarly, courtesy demonstrates consideration for others. When we show courtesy on the road, we signal that we respect the rights of other drivers. This helps create a more cooperative atmosphere on the roadways, making them safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Therefore, patience and courtesy are two crucial qualities that all drivers should strive to possess.

5. Knowledge of Regular Car Maintenance

One of the essential qualities of a good driver is knowing regular car maintenance. By keeping up with regular maintenance, drivers can avoid potential breakdowns, costly repairs, and even accidents. Something as simple as regularly checking and changing your oil can prevent engine damage that could lead to significant costs.

In addition, regular car maintenance can help you identify potential problems early on before they have a chance to cause an accident. For example, if you regularly check your tires and notice that they are losing pressure, you can take measures to fix the problem before it leads to a blowout.

Keep Your Car in Top Shape With T3 Atlanta

While knowing how to maintain your car is one of the essential qualities of a good driver, not everybody has the time (or tools, for that matter). So, if you are located around the Atlanta Metro area, you can reach out to T3 Atlanta and have our expert team of mechanics do the maintenance checks for you. T3 Atlanta specializes in servicing Toyota, Lexus, Infiniti, and Nissan vehicles. Book an appointment by giving us a call today!

Filed Under: Travel Tips

Tips For Taking A Road Trip In An EV

January 4, 2022 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

The first time you consider taking a road trip in an EV, it may seem like the worst idea ever. After all, aren’t EV car batteries supposed to run out of juice after 100 miles or so?

Yes and no. It depends on how you drive. If you do your best to use regenerative braking (which will put some charge back in the battery) and plan your itinerary around charging stations using apps that show them, then yes, EVs are more than capable of taking long trips without stopping for hours at a time. But is traveling in an electric vehicle for a mid to long drive possible? What are the things that you should know before making the drive? Let’s talk about taking a road trip in an EV and the many things you should prepare to make the journey more fun and memorable.

What are EVs or Electric Vehicles?

Before we continue, let’s try to talk about electric vehicles first. Electric vehicles, or EVs, run on electricity instead of gasoline. They come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny city cars to massive SUVs.

They’re becoming more and more popular as people realize the many benefits they offer over gas cars:

  • EVs are much cheaper to operate than gas cars. You can save a lot of money on your electric bill by driving an EV.
  • EVs don’t produce any emissions, which is excellent for the environment.
  • They’re much quieter than gas cars, so you can listen to music or talk without having to raise your voice.
  • They’re smoother and easier to drive than gas cars.
  • They’re more fun to drive than gas cars; did you know that electric vehicles can often out-accelerate their gas counterparts?

What types of road trips are possible in EVs?

Imagine what people would think if they saw someone stopping for gas every hour to go 100 miles. It would probably take them five times as long to get to their destination, right?

Like any other vehicle, there are possible road trips and road trips that aren’t. Here’s a list of road trip possibilities for EVs:

  • A day trip around the city is doable. It may be even easier if you have an all-electric car since you won’t ever run out of power.
  • A road trip to your friend’s or family’s house in another city is also possible. Not many people live very far apart. As long as you charge every night or at work, there should be no problem making short road trips to visit your friends and family.
  • Road trips from one state to another are entirely feasible with EVs. You can make road trips across the US or even cross an entire continent, like Europe or Asia, if you so choose.
  • Road trips where you stay overnight are doable. Many hotels offer free charging for their guests, so ask around before making plans! Otherwise, it should be easy to find public charging stations that you can plug into while sleeping for the night (or wherever else).

Just remember that road tripping in an EV takes a little bit more planning than road tripping in a gas car, but it’s certainly doable.

What things should you prepare before taking a road trip in an EV?

As we’ve mentioned, taking a road trip in an EV requires a few more preparations than road tripping in a gas car.

You must be ready to invest in charging equipment. Your road trip will be much easier and faster if you bring along at least one fast-charging plug (CHAdeMO or CCS). Having two pins is even better if your road trip involves another person or can take longer than expected.

You’ll need to know where all the public charging stations are so that you can plan and stay on track when road tripping. You’ll also need to know how long each leg of your road trip will take so that you don’t get stuck overnight on the road with no place to stay or no way to charge your car.

Some additional tips include:

  • You can bring along a portable solar panel if you have one in case there aren’t any other charging stations around.
  • Having a generator in case it gets dark, or you don’t know road conditions in a particular area.
  • Bring a map if GPS breaks down or doesn’t work well in certain areas.

In short, road trips in EVs are undoubtedly doable. They take a little bit more planning than road trips in gas cars, but they’re much cheaper and better for the environment too.

Car Repair And More At T3 Atlanta

If you are anywhere in Atlanta and you need some help with your car, reach out to T3 Atlanta, and we’ll be there to lend a hand. T3 is the number one car repair service in Atlanta, and our team of expert mechanics will solve your car problems in record time.

Filed Under: Travel Tips

How To Put Snow Chains On Your Tires

December 7, 2021 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

The winter season is in full swing, and it’s time to prep your vehicle for the worst. One of the essential parts of winter driving is having snow chains on hand, just in case you need them. Today we’re going to talk about how to put snow chains on your tires.

But first, let’s talk about why snow chains are even necessary.

Why should you put snow chains on your tires?

Snow chains come in different sizes, designs, and materials. If you’re driving on a snowy or icy road, then your tires must have the correct type of snow chains to help prevent skidding and maintain control of your vehicle.

Snow chains can also improve traction and grip when roads are wet and slippery. They increase traction and help prevent skidding, especially when the wheels lose contact with the road.

What are the different types of snow chains?

Snow chains can be divided into two general types: tire and cable chains.

Tire chains

Tire chains are made of metal and attach to your tires. Tire chains are usually made of steel or alloy and provide better grip than cable chains because the teeth dig deeper into the road’s surface.

Cable chains

Cable chains consist of a series of metal links, and they attach to your wheel rims. Cable chains give you more stability while driving in slushy conditions, but tire chains are stronger overall because the links lock together when you turn the steering wheel.

How to put snow chains on your tires

If you’re driving in slippery conditions and it’s recommended that you put snow chains on your tires, then here are the steps to follow.

  1. Park your vehicle and, for safety reasons, leave it in park or neutral with the parking brake firmly applied.
  2. Loosen the bolts that attach the chains to your tire with pliers or a wrench. This will make putting them on easier later, but don’t remove them altogether.
  3. If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle, attach one end of the chain behind one tire and loop it around the other side. If you have a four-wheel or all-wheel drive, be sure to secure it behind each tire.
  4. Repeat step three for the other side of the vehicle if needed.
  5. Tighten down the bolts with your pliers or wrench to secure the chains in place and prevent them from falling off when you’re driving around.
  6. Once the chains are on, test them by taking your vehicle for a short spin around the block.
  7. If everything seems in order, you can drive onto the snowy or icy road and continue driving normally. Keep at least ten car lengths between yourself and other vehicles on the road, so you don’t risk sliding into them.
  8. If you’re driving in highly snowy conditions, you can tighten the chains by their bolt connections to ensure they don’t move around too much and come off.

Other winter driving essentials to keep in your car

Aside from snow chains, there are different winter driving essentials that you should always keep in your car. These are things that will be helpful when you are in a pinch during the winter season.

Keep these items in your trunk so they are ready to use at all times:

  • Pair of gloves
  • Small shovel (to dig your car out)
  • Salt (or other de-icing agents like cat litter or sand that can be used on the road if needed)
  • Blankets
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Flares or reflective triangle (for greater visibility in case you get stuck at night)
  • Jumper cables
  • First aid kit
  • Basic tool kit (with pliers, wrench, screwdriver, and other things that might prove helpful)
  • Water and snacks (in case you get stuck in your car for any reason)

Winter Repair And Maintenance Services In Atlanta

If you are in Atlanta and looking for a repair shop that can help you and your car out, then T3 Atlanta is always your best bet.

T3 Atlanta is a trusted name in providing general automotive repair services for Lexus, Nissan, Infiniti, and Toyota vehicles in the Atlanta Metro Area. Give us a call today, and we’ll have you penned in for a visit in the soonest time possible.

Filed Under: Car Tips, Travel Tips

Top Tips For Drive-In Theatres

March 9, 2021 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

The drive-in theatre was a mainstay of the mid-20th century, and many have gone the way of the dodo. However, some drive-ins do still exist, including one here in Atlanta. With many theatres still closed or running with limited capacity, and spring bringing warmer weather to our city, it’s the perfect time to go to a drive-in theatre. If you’ve never been to a drive-in and want to give it a try, here are our top tips for drive-in theatres to make your night out a success.

1. Look at the weather report

Drive-ins don’t just operate in perfect weather; they’ll be open rain or shine. All the same, it’s a good idea to look at the weather report before you go and plan accordingly.

If there’s a cold night ahead, pack some hand warmers, hot cocoa, and a blanket or two. If it’s going to be raining, you may want to bring a towel to combat condensation forming on the windows. (Alternately, you can always stick an umbrella outside of your window so you can keep the windows open and yourself dry.)

2. Bring a radio

Your movie’s sound is broadcast through FM radio. You can always rely on your vehicle’s battery to get you through the film (just make sure to run your car during intermission so you don’t completely drain your battery). However, you can also bring your own radio and tune in to the indicated channel, saving your car’s battery and the need to get a jump start after the show.

3. Pack snacks and drinks

You can get concessions at the drive-in, but to save costs and also enjoy your favorite treats, you can also bring your own. Since you can’t have your car’s cabin lights on during the show, it’s best to pack food and drink that you can easily grab in the dark.

Candies, chips, and bagged popcorn are always perfect movie-watching snacks. For the health-conscious, hummus or veggies and chips are great alternatives.

4. Bring a spare battery pack

Although your drive-in theatre will have someone on hand ready to jump-start your car, you can also do it yourself with a portable battery pack. This option saves you some time as the person doing jump-start rounds may not begin until all other cars have left the drive-in.

5. Practice drive-in etiquette

You and your fellow drivers are at the drive-in for one purpose: to enjoy a movie. Since you’re in your car and not in a theatre, it’s important to practice drive-in etiquette and not distract others from their viewing experience.

Some basic tips include:

  • Turn off your headlights
  • Turn off your engine
  • Park at least 10 feet away from other cars
  • Don’t sit on top of or outside of your car during the movie
  • If you’re using your car battery for audio, run your car during the intermission
  • If you’re in an SUV or truck, park near the back of the lot to avoid obstructing other patrons’ view

Complete Auto Care At T3 Atlanta

Whether you need a battery replaced, want to keep your car on its maintenance schedule, or require more comprehensive repairs on your vehicle, T3 Atlanta can help. We provide fast and friendly service Nissan, Lexus, Infiniti, and Toyota vehicles at our two convenient metro Atlanta locations. Give us a call and let us book you in for an appointment today!

Filed Under: Car Tips, Travel Tips

What To Look For In A Child Safety Seat

January 12, 2021 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

If you’re expecting your first child, you’ve no doubt realized there are many questions to answer, not the least of which is how to transport your kid safely around town. We’ve collected some tips on what to look for in a child safety seat to help you make the most informed decision for your family.

What are the rules and regulations about child safety seats in Georgia?

Before we discuss what to look for in a child safety seat, let’s talk about the rules and regulations about these seats in Georgia since a safety seat may not be necessary for your child.

Georgia law requires:

  • All children younger than 8 years old are required to be in a car seat that is suitable for their age and height as determined by the NHTSA.
  • Children who weigh at least 40 pounds may be secured by a lap belt in the back seat of the vehicle if the vehicle does not have shoulder belts or if other belts are occupied by other children.
  • If there is not a back seat in the vehicle or if there are other children in the back seat, children weighing at least 40 pounds may sit in the passenger’s seat.

What should you look for in a child safety seat?

The answer to this question depends on the age and size of your child and will change over time as your child grows. You can find a comprehensive seat check guide and the closest seat inspection station near you at the NHTSA website.

In general, though, you can expect the following timeline for your child’s car seat journey:

  • Use a rear-facing car seat for infancy up until 2–4 years old
  • When your child outgrows the rear-facing seat, transition to a forward-facing car seat
  • When your child outgrows the forward-facing car seat, use a booster seat until the seat belts fit properly (when the lap belt lays across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt lays across the chest)
  • Once seat belts fit properly, Georgia law requires that all passengers use a seat belt

Using a car seat incorrectly can be just as dangerous as not using a car seat at all, but how do you know when you’ve misstepped? The Mayo Clinic also offers these tips on common – but easily avoidable – car seat mistakes, which we’ve summarized below.

Avoid…

  • Getting a used car seat without doing research
  • Setting up your car seat in the wrong spot or incorrectly installing it
  • Changing to a forward-facing car seat or booster seat when your child is too young
  • Changing to seatbelt use when your child is too young

Keep Your Child Safe With A Car That’s In Top Condition

A properly installed car seat that is correctly sized for your child will go a long way towards keeping them safe. Making sure your car is in top condition is another way to keep both you and your child safe, as you can avoid unexpected mechanical issues on the road. T3 Atlanta can help make sure your car is in good condition with preventive maintenance and more in-depth repairs as needed. Give us a call at one of our two convenient locations and we’ll pen you in for an appointment!

Filed Under: Travel Tips

6 Essentials You Should Always Have In Your Car

January 5, 2021 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

There is unfortunately no way to completely eliminate the possibility of getting stuck on the side of the road, whether that’s due to an accident, a car breakdown, or severe weather. That’s why we’ve put together 6 essentials you should always have in your car to help your wait be as safe – and comfortable – as possible.

1. Flashlight

Every smartphone has a flashlight app these days, but it’s still important to have a dedicated flashlight on hand in your vehicle. If you’re stuck on the side of the road, it’s best to reserve your phone’s battery life for calls.

Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check to make sure the batteries are still working. Better yet, keep some spare batteries on hand for peace of mind that your flashlight won’t run out of juice.

2. Water and snacks

If you’re going on a road trip, there’s a good chance you’ve already packed snacks and beverages for your journey.

However, it’s important to keep water and snacks on hand even if you’re planning to stick to city driving. You never know when you might wind up getting stuck in traffic due to a road closure, or on the side of the road after your car breaks down. If you’re going to be waiting in your car for a while, it’s best to do so comfortably!

3. Cell phone charger (that isn’t attached to your vehicle)

A dedicated cell phone charger is one of those often-overlooked essentials you should always have in your car since most people charge their phones via USB ports.

However, if your car’s battery is dead or you can’t access the USB ports for any reason (such as after an accident), a handheld battery pack will ensure you can keep using your phone when you need it most.

4. Car jack and emergency tire

Many vehicles come with a car jack and emergency tire. If you don’t have one, it may be a good idea to keep one on hand – especially if you have a long commute or regularly drive long distances.

You’ll want to check the air pressure in your spare tire every time you get your tires rotated to help ensure that you don’t wind up stuck on the side of the road with a busted tire and a flat spare.

Alternately, you can always keep a tire repair kit in your vehicle. Just keep in mind that these only work on small punctures and won’t work on tire blowouts.

5. First aid kit

First aid kits often come in handy at the least expected moments – whether at a kids’ sporting event, after a hike in the woods, after getting scraped on rocks at the beach, and more. A first aid kit is invaluable to have and can, of course, be customized with spare medications specific to your family’s needs.

You’ll want to check the contents of your kit every year and replace any medications or ointments that have expired.

6. Emergency escape tool

We hope you never have to use one of these, but an emergency escape tool is an affordable, lifesaving device designed to quickly cut seatbelts and break windows.

Unlike the rest of your kit, you’ll want to make sure this tool is within easy reach so you aren’t scrambling to find it during an emergency.

Specific Travel Considerations

If you’re planning to travel into the mountains during the winter or across the desert in the middle of summer, you may want to take a few minutes to gather some situation-specific supplies for your trip.

If you’re planning to travel through a snowy area, the following essentials you should always have in your car include:

  • Sand or kitty litter
  • Shovel
  • Blankets
  • Hand warmers
  • Snow scraper
  • Jumper cables

Some regions in the western US have extremely long distances between gas stations, so it may be a good idea to pack the following (in addition to the essentials above) just in case:

  • Sunscreen
  • Extra water (a sports drink with electrolytes is even better)
  • A broad-brimmed hat

Avoid Getting Stuck On The Side Of The Road With T3 Atlanta

These top essentials you should always have in your car are meant to be emergency backups to help keep you comfortable – and hydrated – in case your vehicle breaks down. The best way to prevent your car from breaking down in the first place is to ensure your vehicle is on its regular maintenance schedule. T3 Atlanta can help. With our two convenient metro Atlanta locations, we’ll keep your car in top condition for years to come. Give us a call today, and we’ll book you in for prompt service!

Filed Under: Car Tips, Travel Tips

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