CAR CARE NEWS :: SEPTEMBER 2010

Foul air may indicate moldy climate control system

You’re driving to a special event on the first hot day of spring and switch on the air conditioner. You expected cool crisp air and got a damp musty odor instead.

What happened?

“Air conditioning systems use hoses to drain condensation,” said Tony Molla, vice president of communication at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. “When they get clogged, the moisture allows mold to grow in the system.”

Molds breeding in your vehicle’s air conditioner system may contribute to passenger allergy problems, Molla said. It also generates unpleasant odors that can affect clothes and upholstery, too.

According to Molla, sometimes simply spraying a can of biocide into the air conditioning system can eliminate the problem. Biocide is a chemical designed to kill the mold and is an easy application.

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Toyota Newsline

New car

2011 Avalon merges comfort with dash of sporty elegance

Aiming to bring class, sophistication and elegance back into driving, Toyota engineers have rolled out a redesigned Avalon for 2011.

"The Avalon has long been appreciated by smart, conscientious consumers who recognize quality materials and the beauty of detailed craftsmanship," said Bob Carter, group vice president of Toyota.

Under the Hood

The newest Avalon is an environmentally friendly vehicle. It is classed as an "ultra-low emission vehicle" yet still delivers impressive power and performance.

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Car care

How to overcome your summer of dents, dings and chips

You parked your car in front of the local mall and went shopping. When you returned an hour or two later, you noticed a small dent on the side of door of your vehicle.

"Dings are particularly annoying because they show up like spots on a mirror, especially on dark colored surfaces," said Chuck Sulkala, executive director of the National Auto Body Council. "They also diminish the value of your vehicle."

What can be done to return your vehicle to its original condition without breaking the bank?

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Accessories

Max headgear: Eliminating noise from wireless headsets

Bluetooth speakerphones and headsets have become a ubiquitous standard for drivers around the world. Yet, the wireless devices were prone to problems with road noise, wind and other distracting sounds while driving.

“It’s true,” said Jim Conti, vice president of business development at BlueAnt Wireless. “Noise in the car could drown out your conversation on the first generation of Bluetooth headset devices. “

What’s the answer?

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Seasonal driving

Fishin' Hole: A Connecticut Yankee discovers America through a 6-pound fly line

Chris Santella flicked his translucent fly line into a Connecticut River some 30 years ago and didn’t know he was also casting his future onto its green waters.

Santella was 15 years old and fly fishing looked like a great New England adventure, something out of Walden pond with a dash of Huck Finn. He wanted to learn its secrets.

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Before you go

Summer school targets drivers who have been around the block

High-speed maneuvers, quick braking and vehicle weight transfer – just another day at the office for NASCAR drivers. But a wide variety of schools offer drivers of all ages to assimilate the experience of pros into their daily driving.

And they can add a high quotient of fun while learning regardless of the driver’s level of experience.

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