How To Make a Winter Emergency Kit For Your Car

Living in the south, some may say that a winter emergency kit is not necessary, but we say it’s better to be safe than sorry. Although we don’t see snow often, it can still happen, and when it does, we want you to be the safest you possibly can. A winter emergency kit can make that happen. Besides, wouldn’t you rather be enjoying a wintery wonderland with your family than stuck on the side of the road? We know we would, and we have the tools and tips to ensure you spend all of your snow days either building snowmen or sitting by the fire.

WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR WINTER EMERGENCY KIT

Snow Shovel: The moment snow falls in Georgia, it tends to have this idea of Go Big or Go Home. Georgia snow doesn’t typically like to do anything by halves. In those cases, it’s important to be prepared. A snow shovel helps you get your car out of any snow pile surrounding it, or it can also keep your car from becoming buried beneath snow if you’re waiting for help to arrive.
Windshield Scraper and Brush: Has anyone ever tried scraping your credit card against the windshield to remove all the built-up ice? Well, while that may work, it probably isn’t the best method (or the most financially conscious). During the times where you’re just trying to get to work, a scraper and brush is much more effective and efficient at removing ice from your windshield first thing in the morning. That way, you won’t spend an extra 30 minutes waiting for the ice to melt so you can drive safely.
Battery Jump Starter: To a car battery, cold weather can be its kryptonite. When that happens, avoid waiting on someone for a jump start and use a portable battery jump. We want to help get you on the road as soon as possible!
Tactical Flashlight: An emergency kit just wouldn’t be properly equipped if you didn’t have a bright flashlight. Keep in mind, most smart phones do come equipped with flashlights, but it would be handy to have a backup around in case your phone dies or so you don’t drain the battery. Keep an extra pair of batteries handy in case the flashlight dies as well.
Portable Phone Charger: We hope this never happens, but we do just want to prepare you for any scenario possible. If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road with a dying phone, it would be useful to have a portable phone charger with you. You can find these just about anywhere from Best Buy to Walmart, and they should have USB ports which can be used with Apple and Android chargers. Most newer cars do have a charging/USB port available, but if your battery suddenly dies, a car charger will become ineffective. The more basic portable chargers can give your phone 30 minutes of life which is plenty of time to make a call for help. (You can also look into a charging case, but those tend to run a little bit pricier, and there is a chance it could harm your phone’s existing battery life.)
Portable WiFi Hotspot: A dead area may not offer enough service for you to make a call for help. In that case, enable WiFi calling on your phone* and turn on a portable hotspot, and that will allow you to make any calls you need to.
- Helpful Tip: Android and iPhone hotspots are great, but they rely on surrounding 4G/LTE networks, which isn’t helpful when you’re stuck in a dead zone. You also cannot connect your phone to its own hotspot signal. Most portable hotspots are different because they rely on a built-in 4G/LTE network, which allows for WiFi connectivity.
Water: Keeping hydrated no matter the season is always important. We recommend always carrying an environmentally sustainable water bottle with you no matter where you go.
- Helpful Tip: Plastic water bottles can introduce harmful BPA chemicals into your system, so it’s best to avoid those altogether. Reusable water bottles are not only good for you but for the environment as well.
Extra Layers : Staying warm is key, so be sure to pack extras of anything you’d need or want to stay warm. Keeping an extra pair of weather appropriate shoes and socks might also be helpful as well.
First Aid Kit: In case of in injury, it is a good idea to keep a first aid kit in your vehicle at all times. Even if you don’t need it in an actual emergency, it can certainly come in handy at the kids soccer games to treat minor abrasion’s.

*To Turn On WiFi Calling:

- For iPhone: Settings > Phone > WiFi Calling

- For Android: Settings > WiFi Preferences (at the bottom) > Advanced > WiFi Calling > Turn On

TEAM RYAN AUTOMOTIVE FOR WINTER MAINTENANCE

Team Ryan Automotive is dedicated to keeping you safe and on the road all through the winter time. To schedule an appointment or get in touch, give us a call at 678.765.7926 or visit us at teamryanautomotive.com.

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Tire Maintenance 101: Maximize Your Tires' Lifespan

By Dan Ryan • April 4, 2025

Tire Maintenance 101: Maximize Your Tires' Lifespan Your car’s tires play a crucial role in your safety, vehicle performance, and fuel efficiency. Regularly maintaining your tires not only ensures a smoother, safer ride but also saves you money by extending tire life and enhancing fuel economy. Here are practical steps you can take to maximize the lifespan of your tires and improve your overall driving experience. Regular Tire Rotation Consistent tire rotation promotes even tread wear, significantly extending your tires' lifespan. Tires typically wear unevenly due to the weight distribution of your vehicle, with front tires often experiencing faster wear from steering and braking forces. We recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. At Team Ryan Automotive, our skilled technicians efficiently perform tire rotations, ensuring even wear and maximum tire longevity. Wheel Alignment Checks Proper wheel alignment is essential to tire longevity and safe driving. Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear, leading to premature tire replacements and reduced vehicle performance. Misalignment can occur from routine driving, potholes, curbs, or regular wear and tear. Common signs include uneven tire wear patterns, vehicle pulling to one side, or an off-center steering wheel when driving straight. Team Ryan Automotive recommends annual alignment checks or immediate inspection if you notice misalignment signs. Our advanced equipment and experienced team ensure precise alignment corrections, prolonging your tire life and ensuring optimal vehicle handling. Proper Tire Inflation Keeping your tires properly inflated is one of the simplest ways to extend their lifespan. Underinflated tires increase wear on tire edges, reduce fuel efficiency, and compromise handling. Overinflated tires can cause uneven wear in the tire’s center, a harsher ride, and reduced grip. Check your tire pressure at least monthly using a reliable gauge, referring to the recommended pressures listed in your owner’s manual or the sticker inside your driver’s door jamb. At Team Ryan Automotive, we ensure your tires maintain proper inflation for optimal performance and extended tire life. Benefits of Preventive Tire Maintenance Preventive tire maintenance offers multiple advantages, including: Enhanced Safety : Maintained tires provide superior traction, braking, and handling, significantly reducing accident risks. Cost Savings : Regular maintenance extends tire life and improves fuel efficiency, saving you money long-term. Better Performance : Proper tire care results in smoother rides, improved handling, and increased driving comfort. Environmental Responsibility : Maximizing tire lifespan reduces waste, helping protect the environment. Schedule Your Tire Maintenance at Team Ryan Automotive Today At Team Ryan Automotive, our commitment is to your safety and driving satisfaction. Our expert technicians provide comprehensive tire maintenance, including rotation, alignment checks, and tire pressure adjustments. Don’t wait until issues arise— schedule your tire maintenance with Team Ryan Automotive today for safer, smoother, and more economical driving. Contact us to book your appointment and discover the benefits of expert tire care.

How to Know When It's Time for New Tires

By Dan Ryan • April 2, 2025

How to Know When It's Time for New Tires Your car’s tires are the critical link between your vehicle and the road, making their condition vital for your safety, performance, and overall comfort. Recognizing when to replace your tires ensures your car handles and brakes effectively, no matter the road or weather conditions. Here are clear indicators that it’s time for new tires and how worn tires impact your driving experience. 1. Low Tread Depth Tire tread provides essential traction and handling by maintaining contact with the road. As tread wears down, your tires lose grip, increasing the risk of accidents. To quickly check your tread depth, use the penny test: insert a penny into your tire tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, your tread depth is below the safe limit (less than 2/32 inches). At Team Ryan Automotive, we recommend replacing tires once tread reaches 4/32 inches for optimal safety. 2. Sidewall Cracks or Damage Inspect your tire sidewalls regularly for visible cracks, cuts, or bulges. Sidewalls maintain tire shape and protect the internal structure. Exposure to sunlight, heat, and cold can deteriorate rubber over time, causing cracks that increase the risk of blowouts. If sidewall damage is present, professional inspection and tire replacement are necessary to maintain safe driving conditions. 3. Persistent Vibrations While Driving Feeling unusual vibrations or shaking, especially at higher speeds, often indicates tire issues. Unevenly worn or improperly balanced tires cause vibrations, making your drive uncomfortable and causing additional stress on suspension and steering components. If vibrations persist, have your tires professionally inspected and balanced at Team Ryan Automotive. 4. Tire Age Tires age regardless of mileage or visible wear. Rubber compounds naturally degrade, becoming brittle and prone to failure over time. Most tire manufacturers advise replacing tires every six years, even if tread depth appears sufficient. Locate your tire’s age on the sidewall DOT code, which shows the week and year of manufacture. Tires near or beyond the six-year mark should be replaced promptly. Risks of Driving on Worn Tires Driving with worn tires significantly compromises your vehicle’s safety, handling, and efficiency: Reduced traction, particularly on wet or slippery roads, increasing accident risk Increased stopping distances, raising collision danger Uneven wear leading to costly suspension and steering repairs Lower fuel efficiency due to increased engine strain Tire Inspections at Team Ryan Automotive At Team Ryan Automotive, we’re committed to your safety. Our experienced technicians will: Inspect your tires thoroughly for wear, damage, and aging Measure tread depth and identify uneven wear patterns Balance and rotate your tires for optimal performance Recommend ideal replacement tires tailored to your vehicle and driving style Don’t compromise your safety by waiting. Schedule your tire inspection at Team Ryan Automotive today and drive confidently with tires you can trust.

Why Your Car AC Isn't Cooling: Troubleshooting Common Issues

By Dan Ryan • March 31, 2025

7 Ways Preventative Maintenance Extends Your Car's Life As a car owner, you want your vehicle to run smoothly and reliably for as long as possible. The key to achieving this goal is preventative maintenance – a proactive approach to car care that helps prevent costly repairs and extends your vehicle's lifespan. At Team Ryan Automotive, we've seen firsthand how regular maintenance can make a world of difference in a car's performance and longevity. In this post, we'll explore the top 7 benefits of preventative maintenance and how our team can help you keep your car in top shape for years to come. Prevent Costly Repairs One of the most significant benefits of preventative maintenance is its ability to catch small issues before they turn into expensive problems. For example, replacing a worn timing belt on schedule is much more affordable than repairing the engine damage caused by a snapped belt. By addressing minor concerns early, you can save yourself from major repair bills down the road. Enhance Safety on the Road Your car's performance is directly linked to your safety behind the wheel. Regular maintenance ensures that critical components like brakes, tires, and steering are always in optimal condition, reducing the risk of accidents caused by mechanical failures. By prioritizing preventative maintenance, you're not just investing in your car's health – you're investing in your own safety. Optimize Fuel Efficiency A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently, helping you get the most out of every tank of gas. Simple services like regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and proper tire inflation can all contribute to better fuel economy, saving you money at the pump. Maximize Your Car's Lifespan Preventative maintenance is the key to helping your car reach its full potential in terms of longevity. By reducing wear and tear on various components, regular care can help your vehicle surpass 200,000 miles or more. This not only saves you the expense of an early replacement but also allows you to enjoy your car's performance for longer. Boost Resale Value If you plan on selling or trading in your vehicle in the future, having a well-documented history of preventative maintenance can significantly increase its resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to trust and invest in a car that has been consistently cared for over the years. Minimize Unexpected Breakdowns There's never a convenient time for your car to break down. By staying on top of preventative maintenance, you can greatly reduce the chances of finding yourself stranded on the side of the road. Regular battery testing and fluid checks, for example, can help prevent some of the most common causes of unexpected breakdowns. Save Time and Reduce Stress While preventative maintenance does require occasional visits to the auto shop, it's far less disruptive and stressful than dealing with major repairs or emergency breakdowns. By keeping your car reliable through regular care, you can save yourself the headache of last-minute fixes and enjoy more peace of mind on the road. At Team Ryan Automotive, we understand that preventative maintenance is an investment in your car's future. Our expert technicians, transparent service, and personalized maintenance plans make it easy for you to keep your vehicle in top condition for years to come. Whether you need a routine oil change or a comprehensive inspection, we're here to help you get the most out of your car. Don't wait until a problem arises – schedule your preventative maintenance appointment with Team Ryan Automotive today and start enjoying the many benefits of a well-cared-for vehicle. Ready to extend your car's life and enjoy a more reliable ride? Contact Team Ryan Automotive to schedule your preventative maintenance appointment today!