Stadium Automotive

I’ve loved gadgets for as long as I can remember. In the fourth grade, back before remote controls, I wired my TV and lights so I could turn them on from my bed. I had speakers all over my room for a surround-sound effect. It was my introduction to gadgets and total living comfort. I remember that was also the time I fell in love with automobiles. They were full of gadgets and mystery. Where else can you control so many devices from a “captain’s chair?” The basics have been there since the earliest days of the automobile, such as steering, throttle, brakes, clutch, emergency brake and gears for the transmission. As automobiles evolved, more devices were added, such as headlights, taillights, turn signals, horn, driver’s side crank-up windows, windshield wipers, window washers and doors that open and close easily. Then came the creature comforts such as heating, air conditioning, radio, rear view mirror and adjustable seat. In the next evolution, even more controls and gadgets popped u ... read more

One of the questions that is always going through my mind is, Too much and you’re wasting money; not enough, and your vehicle’s dependability and longevity flies out the window. The owner’s manual of every car has great information on what services to do and when. But are the manufacturer’s recommendations enough to ensure a long life for the vehicle? The biggest question is how often most fluids and air filters should be changed. My automotive “bible,” Consumer Reports, and I part company on this question as it relates to oil changes. They recommend for the most part following the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals, which often are too infrequent in my opinion. And some service centers recommend oil changes every three months – which I think is far too often. A very strong “depends.” It depends on a variety of factors including the vehicle you drive, your driving style, your risk tolerance and how long you plan to keep your car – and how long you want it to last even if you ... read more