Month: May 2024

May 01

Why Does My Turn Signal Blink Faster Sometimes?

 

Introduction: The Fast-Blinking Turn Signal

Have you ever noticed your turn signal blinking more rapidly than usual? This increased speed often indicates that maintenance is required, typically pointing to an issue with the turn signal bulb. Let’s explore why your turn signal might be blinking faster and what you can do about it.

Causes of a Fast-Blinking Turn Signal

One common reason for a faster blinking turn signal is a faulty bulb. When you activate your turn signal, electricity flows through the fuse box to the turn signal circuit and then to the bulb. If the bulb is damaged or malfunctioning, the signal may blink faster or inconsistently, indicating that it needs replacement.

Diagnosing the Issue

To diagnose the issue, inspect each turn signal to see if one is blinking or illuminating differently. A bulb that appears dark, cloudy, or has a broken filament likely needs replacing. Additionally, poor or damaged electrical connections can cause the turn signal to blink faster, as insufficient power reaches the bulb, leading to inconsistent blinking.

Fixing the Problem

Start by checking all wiring and connections around the turn signal area and cleaning the components. Ensure the fuses are functioning correctly. If the bulb is faulty, replacing it usually involves opening the hood, removing the headlight housing, and disconnecting the electrical connector.

Carefully install the new bulb, avoiding direct contact with the glass to prevent premature failure. Reconnect the electrical connector and place the housing back in position. Finally, test the new bulb to ensure it works correctly.

A mechanic holding a turn signal bulb
Turn signal bulb | iStock

Additional Causes and Solutions

A faulty electrical switch can also result in inconsistent blinking rates. These issues are often caused by corrosion, burns, or worn insulation in the switch or relays. Checking and cleaning these components and replacing worn-out parts can resolve the problem.

Conclusion: Ensuring Proper Turn Signal Function

Understanding why your turn signal blinks faster can help you maintain your vehicle’s safety and functionality. Regular checks and prompt replacements of faulty bulbs and connections ensure your turn signals work correctly, keeping you safe on the road. If you encounter persistent issues, consider consulting a professional mechanic for further assistance.

May 01

Family Advantages of the New 2024 Mazda CX-90

Introduction: Redefining Family Travel

The family SUV market is expanding, and Mazda is at the forefront with its new 2024 CX-90. This model breaks away from Mazda’s previous family vehicle offerings and sets a new standard for family travel. Explore the enhancements that make the 2024 Mazda CX-90 a superior choice for families.

Spacious and Versatile Interiors

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 maximizes interior space with well-designed storage solutions and extensive seating configurations. It features a variety of compartments and a versatile center console that serves both front and second-row passengers. The SUV boasts significant cargo space: 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 75.2 cubic feet with the rear seats down, plus roof rails for additional carrying capacity and a towing capability of 5,000 pounds.

Roominess is a key asset of the CX-90, ensuring that each passenger, from front to third row, experiences comfort without feeling cramped. The thoughtful design facilitates easy access to all seating areas.

Refined Riding Experience

Mazda’s 2024 CX-90 is engineered for comfort, significantly reducing the impact of rough terrains and potentially decreasing motion sickness. The vehicle smoothly handles bumps and absorbs shocks efficiently, maintaining a quiet interior atmosphere with minimal intrusion from wind and road noise, though some engine noise is perceptible during acceleration.

To enhance passenger comfort across all rows, the CX-90 is equipped with ample air ventilation systems and features a panoramic sunroof that can be opened to let in fresh air, adding to the overall pleasant environment inside the vehicle.

Intuitive and Accessible Technology

Navigating the 2024 Mazda CX-90 is straightforward thanks to its user-friendly technology. The integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is seamless, making device connectivity effortless. The SUV’s reduced turning radius, compared to the older CX-9, makes it more agile in tight spaces.

Advanced technological enhancements such as parking sensors and a comprehensive 360-degree camera system are available in higher trims, simplifying the process of maneuvering in restricted areas. Easy access is further supported by wide-opening doors and a rear hatch designed to facilitate simple loading of cargo.

Conclusion: A New Benchmark in Family SUVs

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 exceeds typical expectations for a family SUV by combining spacious interiors, a smooth ride, and cutting-edge technology. It is designed to anticipate and meet the diverse needs of modern families, positioning it as an ideal choice for those seeking practicality infused with luxury. Mazda’s innovation in the SUV category ensures that every journey in the CX-90 is as memorable as the destination itself.

May 01

Hyundai Palisade 2024: Spacious, Luxurious, and Ready for Adventure

Introducing Hyundai’s Premier Family SUV

The Hyundai Palisade has swiftly become a beacon of spacious and luxurious travel in Hyundai’s SUV lineup, offering the largest passenger vehicle the brand has launched in the U.S. to date. Initially released in 2020, the Palisade quickly set a new standard for family-friendly travel with its vast interior and premium amenities.

Room to Breathe and Explore

In its 2024 iteration, the Hyundai Palisade continues to impress with seating for up to eight passengers, ensuring every family member rides in comfort. The Palisade is designed with both day-to-day utility and long-distance travel in mind, boasting extensive cargo space and thoughtful interior features that emphasize comfort and practicality.

Elevated Style and Technology

Last year, the Palisade received significant updates to its exterior and interior, enhancing its appeal with a modernized front grille, streamlined headlights, and a robust infotainment system featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The 2024 model year introduces the Calligraphy Night Edition, now the pinnacle of the Palisade range, which merges sophisticated style with the robustness expected of a high-end SUV.

Luxury Meets Versatility

Inside, the Palisade features an array of luxury fittings, including an ergo-motion driver’s seat and acoustic-laminated glass in the rear doors of the high-end Calligraphy model, adding an extra layer of tranquility to the cabin atmosphere. Each row is meticulously designed to maximize comfort, from the heated seats to the adjustable armrests, ensuring every journey is a pleasure.

A Safe and Smart Journey

Hyundai has equipped the Palisade with cutting-edge technology to enhance safety and ease of driving. Features like Smart Cruise Control and an array of driver-assistance systems work seamlessly to provide a secure and relaxed driving experience. Moreover, the inclusion of multiple USB ports and advanced air conditioning systems across all rows guarantees convenience for all passengers.

Adventurous Spirit with Family in Mind

The Palisade is not just any SUV; it’s a gateway to adventure for families, offering a combination of safety, comfort, and style that stands out in its class. Whether navigating urban landscapes or embarking on rugged retreats, the Palisade is equipped to handle diverse environments with its powerful V-6 engine and advanced all-wheel-drive system.

Ready for Everything

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade is more than just a vehicle; it’s a mobile family sanctuary designed to facilitate memorable journeys and adventures. With its blend of functionality, comfort, and safety, the Palisade defines what a family SUV should be. Ready to accommodate every family’s lifestyle, it stands ready to transform any trip into an extraordinary experience.

May 01

SUV crashes into Irving building, no one hurt

Irving Police said no one was hurt after an SUV crashed into a building Wednesday morning.

The driver smashed into the front of a building at N. State Highway 161 Service Road and E. Campus Circle Drive around 8:20 a.m., according to authorities.

The vehicle plowed through a glass window and appeared to have crashed into the middle of a gym.

Irving officers said the driver exited the vehicle alone before emergency personnel arrived.

Although no other injuries were reported, the cause of the crash is still under investigation.

May 01

Top Lego Car Sets You Can Find on Amazon and Walmart

Introduction: Spark Creativity with Lego

Lego is a timeless toy that inspires creativity and captivates builders of all ages. Building Lego car sets is an engaging activity that offers endless possibilities, from simple 100-piece models to detailed life-sized replicas like the Bugatti Chiron. Whether you enjoy the freedom of constructing from scratch or the satisfaction of completing a pre-designed set, Lego car sets cater to all preferences.

Discover the Best Lego Car Sets Online

We’ve compiled a detailed list of the best vehicle-themed Lego sets available online, perfect for car enthusiasts and Lego fans alike. This guide includes categories such as Lego Icons, Lego Speed Champions, and Lego Technic, ensuring there’s something for everyone. These sets not only provide hours of building enjoyment but also serve as impressive collectibles once completed.

Lego Technic: Challenge for Advanced Builders

Lego Technic sets are ideal for those seeking a more complex and mechanically detailed building experience. These sets often include functioning gearboxes, wheels, and axles, making them perfect for experienced builders. Some models even offer remote control capabilities through the Lego Control + app, adding an interactive element to the build.

Lego Speed Champions: Iconic Cars in Miniature

Lego Speed Champions sets are perfect for automotive enthusiasts, featuring detailed models of famous cars. Each set includes at least one Lego minifigure and captures the essence of the car it represents. These sets are fun to build and make great collectibles for car lovers.

Benefits of Building Lego Car Sets

Engaging with Lego car sets provides more than just entertainment; it fosters creativity, improves fine motor skills, and offers a therapeutic escape from everyday stress. Building Lego sets is a fantastic way for families to bond, while collectors can appreciate the intricate craftsmanship of each model. Lego’s commitment to inspiring and developing future builders makes these sets valuable additions to any collection.

Featured Lego Sets

Lego Technic Highlights

  • Peugeot 9X8 24H Le Mans Hybrid Hypercar 42156 – $177.99 (11% off at Amazon)
  • Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance Race Car 42171 – $219.99 at Amazon
  • John Deere 948L-II Skidder 42157 – $199.99 at Walmart
  • Ferrari 488 GTE “AF Corse #51” 42125 – $170 (15% off at Amazon)
  • Porsche 911 RSR Race Car Model Building Kit 42096 – $167.99 (7% off at Amazon)

Lego Speed Champions Highlights

  • Mopar Dodge//SRT Top Fuel Dragster and 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 76904 – $73 at Walmart
  • Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro & Vantage GT3 2 Collectible Model 76910 – $44.95 at Walmart
  • BMW M4 GT3 & BMW M Hybrid V8 Race Cars 76922 – $44.97 at Amazon
  • Fast & Furious 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 76912 – $41.95 at Walmart
  • Mercedes-AMG F1 W12 E 76909 Performance & Project One Toy Car Set – $30.99 (11% off at Amazon)

Lego Icons and More

  • Back to the Future Time Machine 10300 – $160 at Walmart
  • Land Rover Classic Defender 90 10317 – $230 at Amazon
  • Porsche 911 10295 – $169.99 at Amazon
  • Chevrolet Camaro Z28 10304 – $169.95 at Walmart
  • Dune Atreides Royal Ornithopter 10327 – $164.95 at Amazon

Conclusion: Create Lasting Memories with Lego

No matter which Lego set you choose, the creativity and joy that come with building these sets are unparalleled. Lego’s mission to inspire and develop future builders is evident in each meticulously designed set. Treat yourself or a loved one to a memorable Lego experience that promises endless hours of fun and creativity.

May 01

Major Injuries in Outagamie County Accident Involving Semi, SUV, and Motorcycles

Several people were injured in a significant crash in Outagamie County on Wednesday. At 11:05 a.m., the Outagamie County Sheriff’s Office responded to a serious accident at the intersection of County Trunk S and State Highway 47 in the town of Center.

A 38-year-old man from Appleton and his 49-year-old passenger from New London were heading east on County Trunk S in an SUV. At the same time, two motorcyclists, aged 64 from Appleton and 36 from Milwaukee, were traveling north on State Highway 47. A 23-year-old man from Green Bay, driving a semi-truck, was stopped at the intersection, going west on County Trunk S.

The SUV driver did not give way to the motorcyclists and entered the intersection, resulting in a collision. The motorcycles hit the SUV, which then crashed into the semi-truck. The passenger in the SUV sustained minor injuries, while the motorcyclists suffered serious and critical injuries.

First responders quickly transported the injured to a local hospital. The older motorcyclist had severe injuries, and the younger one was critically hurt. The SUV driver was arrested for a felony charge of operating a vehicle while his license was revoked, leading to significant harm.

The road was closed for about two and a half hours but has since reopened. Authorities are investigating the crash to identify all factors involved. Public safety warnings have been issued to help prevent similar incidents in the future.

May 01

Is Hyundai’s N Division the Next Gazoo Racing?

It is easy to draw a parallel between Hyundai’s “N” sub-brand and BMW’s “M” subsidiary. Hyundai uses the same formula: tuning a high trim version of production models for superior performance. The N division is headed by Albert Biermann, retired vice president of BMW’s M division. And the divisions’ names are both a single letter. They’re even next to each other in the alphabet, for goodness sake. But you can make as good a case for a parallel with Toyota’s Gazoo Racing. And I’ll bet that isn’t by accident.

Akio Toyoda was Toyota’s Vice President–and heir to the family. After the automaker cancelled its final front-engine, RWD sports car, the company’s head test driver, “Nürburgring Meister” Hiromu Naruse had some stern words for Toyoda. He said no executive who didn’t know how to race should be making decisions for an automaker.

To Akio Toyoda’s credit, he volunteered for lessons with Naruse. He completely fell in love with racing. He even petitioned the board of directors to start a Toyota Factory Works race team and send him to the Nürburgring 24 Hours. They said no.

So Naruse and Toyoda two men flew to Germany with a volunteer racing team, bought a pair of Lexuses, and competed anyway. Akio Toyoda drove under an alias. They named their team after a car auction website he had been running as a side hustle: Gazoo.com. And thus, Gazoo Racing was born.

Gazoo Racing grew so popular that it eventually became the official Toyota Factory Works team. Akio Toyoda became the company’s president and insisted on producing multiple front-engine, RWD sports cars. GR is still a badge you can find on many special edition Toyota models tuned for performance driving. Why? Because the VP of a Japanese company was brave enough to fight the Germans on their own soil.

N Division racing at Nürburgring 24 Hours | Hyundai

And that brings us back to Hyundai N. What does the “N” stand for? The Namyang district in South Korea where Hyundai’s R&D department designs “N” cars and the Nürburgring, where they all get tested. That’s right, Hyundai took a page out of Toyota’s book and established a “European Technical Center” within eyesight of the Nürburgring to put its N cars through their paces.

That’s not all. Hyundai is positioning itself as a major contender in the Nürburgring 24 Hours. For 2024, it’s bringing its largest team to date. The N division is entering three Elantra N TCR cars. Another team with some manufacturer support will be racing an i30N Fastback in the VT2 FWD class.

Obviously, Hyundai isn’t against learning from BMW’s M division as it perfects its own N division. But it also has its sights on Toyota’s Gazoo Racing. Often metaphorically. But at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, it will be chasing Toyota’s Gazoo Racing–and BMW’s M cars–literally.

May 01

Is Frequent DC Fast Charging Detrimental to Your Electric Car Battery?

Understanding DC Fast Charging

How does DC fast charging impact your electric vehicle’s battery? Many EV owners are concerned about this, but rest assured, using DC fast charging stations occasionally won’t harm your battery pack. Let’s break down why this is the case and how DC fast charging operates.

How DC Fast Charging Operates

Public Level 3 DC fast-charging stations can replenish an EV battery to 80% capacity within 15-45 minutes, depending on the vehicle and temperature conditions. While most EV owners typically charge their vehicles at home, DC fast charging is essential for long trips or when the battery is running low. These stations use various connector types, with early Asian models using CHAdeMO and newer vehicles predominantly using the SAE CCS Combo plug.

Compatibility and Communication

Tesla vehicles use their proprietary connector, the North American Charging Standard (NACS), for their Supercharger network, but they can also use other public chargers with an adaptor. Unlike home chargers that convert AC to DC power, Level 3 chargers provide direct DC energy, allowing for faster charging. The station continuously communicates with the vehicle to deliver the appropriate amount of power, preventing damage to the battery.

Charging Dynamics

Once charging begins and the battery is adequately warmed, the flow of kilowatts increases to the maximum input the vehicle can handle. The charger maintains this rate until the battery reaches about 80% capacity, then slows down to a Level 2 charging speed to protect battery life. This process is known as the DC fast charging curve.

Impact of Frequent Fast Charging

Battery chemistry determines an EV’s ability to handle higher charge currents. Faster charging can slightly accelerate battery capacity decline, but studies show the difference is minor. The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) found that while exclusive Level 3 charging can hasten deterioration, it’s a rare scenario and the impact is not significant.

Early Findings with Nissan Leaf

INL tested 2012 Nissan Leaf EVs under similar conditions in Phoenix, Arizona, revealing a slight difference in battery degradation between Level 2 and Level 3 charging. After 50,000 miles, Level 2-charged cars lost about 23% capacity, while Level 3-charged ones lost around 27%. The hot climate and repeated deep charging/discharging likely contributed to this minor variance.

64ebcd8a811b07c6ca73307e-tesla-model-y-4

Recent Studies on Tesla Vehicles

Recent research by Recurrent analyzed over 12,500 Teslas, showing minimal difference in battery degradation between frequent fast charging and AC charging. This indicates that modern EVs are even more resilient to the effects of fast charging compared to earlier models.

Conclusion

The consensus is that while DC fast charging may have a slight effect on battery life, it is minimal and generally not a primary charging method. Feel free to use DC fast charging when necessary without significant concerns about battery degradation.

May 01

Family provides update on recovery of 5-year-old hit by SUV

There is an update on the recovery of the 5-year-old who was hit while headed home from a Tifton elementary school.

The family said Isaiah Silva now has a drainage tube inside his head due to having so much pressure in his head.

They are slowly going to try to take him off of medication, but it is going to be a long recovery and road ahead, the family said.

While Isaiah recovers, his two sisters will be in the care of their aunt. Whereas his 16-year-old brother is with their mother.

“We’re just asking for prayers and a miracle for everything to come out the way that it should be,” the family said.

The family says he’s still in a medically induced coma.

May 01

Here’s How Tesla’s FSD 12 Handles Manhattan Traffic

Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” software did a decent job in one of America’s most chaotic driving environments.

 

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has been saying for almost a decade that the company’s so-called Full Self-Driving software is on the brink of making Teslas drive themselves. But is it? Thanks to a whole YouTube genre dedicated to Tesla owners putting FSD to the test, you can be the judge.

One recent video posted by the YouTube channel “FSD in NYC” showcases—you guessed it—Tesla’s driver-assistance tech attempting to navigate New York City streets.

Tesla is going hard on autonomy

Elon Musk is pushing harder than ever for Tesla to be not just a car company, but rather an artificial intelligence company. Tesla has promised to bring self-driving technology to its cars for years. But its so-called Full Self-Driving package still requires total human supervision as it attempts to navigate the world.

Today, FSD requires full driver supervision, so it isn’t autonomous. The driver is always legally in control and liable for any mistakes it makes. Sometimes it performs admirably, navigating near pedestrians and other cars in an almost human-like way. Sometimes, it fails at simple tasks and gets confused by scenarios any human wouldn’t think twice about. We recently reported that FSD-enabled Teslas have been slamming into curbs at a rate that’s alarmed Tesla owners.

That’s basically the gist of FSD in NYC’s latest video. A lot of the driving went off without a hitch. But the driver had to hit the accelerator a few times to prompt the overly cautious Tesla to get a move on. It successfully weaved down a street with two double-parked cars, but did so unnecessarily slowly, FSD in NYC said.

“What’s it worried about? I’m not sure,” the driver said.

The Tesla Model Y also got stuck in a crosswalk because it failed to slow for a yellow light. Then it got honked at when it failed to proceed even when it had the right of way across an intersection. All told, the driver notes how human-like FSD feels at times but recognizes that it still needs constant monitoring. The Tesla was running the FSD 12.3.2.1 software release.

“I’m really just monitoring it like a teenage taxi driver in New York, perhaps,” he said.

Check out the full video and let us know how FSD V12 did in one of the most chaotic driving environments in the country. And stay tuned: We’ll be bringing you our own evaluation of Tesla’s latest FSD software in the near future.