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When you're in the market for a vehicle, we know it's sometimes hard to decide whether to go the new car route or not. If you're ever in this position, and you're weighing pros and cons, be sure to remember that used cars can be just as reliable as new cars if you take good care of them. By showing your investment some love in the form of preventative maintenance, you'll ensure your car will return the favor. more Keeps You Safer Ward off any potential issues by having a trained professional look at your car's parts and systems that are most likely to give you issues and hazards on the roads. This includes the brake system, tires, the battery, fluids, and filters. If you or a mechanic aren't taking a look, chances are you won't know there's an issue until your car has failed you until you're in an accident or stranded on the side of the road. They'll Last Longer With Upkeep All of the care you put into the individual components of your car will add up, helping you keep it on the road for longer. If the systems are kept happy with proper fluids and upkeep, they will work more efficiently, which will lead to fewer issues over time. Saves You Money In the long run, it's going to cost you less money to perform maintenance than it would have otherwise cost you to replace an entire system due to an easily preventable issue. Also, the more efficient your vehicle is, the better its fuel economy will be, which will save you even more at the pump. Overall, the more use you get out of your car, the longer it will be before you are in a position where you must replace it. More Money in the Form of Trade-In Value So, when the time eventually does come for you to part ways with your properly cared for vehicle, it will be in relatively better shape than had you neglected its health. Your car's overall condition will positively affect how much you can get for it when trading it in. This goes for both its appearance and what's under the hood. With this list of benefits, and the fact that there are some more not even listed, we think the time and effort that go into preventative care for a previously owned car is more than worth it. This is why purchasing used is a great option. Stop by Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, AR to check out our current inventory. Also, be sure to find out how our service department can help you achieve the benefits listed above.

Image via Shutterstock Did you know that your vehicle's catalytic converter plays a crucial role in converting unburned fuel and nitrogen oxide into less harmful substances? It then releases safer emissions through the exhaust. When the converter malfunctions, it can significantly affect your vehicle's gas mileage and performance. Below are ways to tell when you need car maintenance and a new converter installed to ensure your vehicle performs optimally. more Illuminated Check Engine Light If your car's converter malfunctions, the oxygen sensors in your vehicle will detect that the exhaust gases are not adequately catalyzed. This will cause the check engine light on your dashboard to go on. Call us as soon as possible when you see the check engine light is on to prevent further damage to your vehicle. Sulfurous Odor During the combustion process, the sulfur present in the fuel transforms into hydrogen sulfide. The converter then converts the hydrogen sulfide into sulfur dioxide, an odorless gas. When the converter fails to do its job correctly, it won't convert all the gas, resulting in the emission of an unpleasant sulfurous odor from the exhaust similar to the smell of rotten eggs. Poor Acceleration A converter is a metal container between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. The converter contains a honeycomb mesh. Over time, the mesh can get clogged with carbon buildup. It can also get damaged when the heat from unburned fuel melts it. When there is a blockage, it will restrict the exhaust flow, making your car feel slow and sluggish when you step on the gas pedal. Increased Fuel Consumption When the converter is not working correctly, you may notice that your car is consuming more gas than usual. The problem could be an obstruction due to blockage preventing exhaust flow, causing you to stop at the gas station to fill up more often. Rattling Noises Over time, the mesh inside the converter's container begins to deteriorate due to excessive heat or damage. When the mesh breaks down, it will start to make noises. You will hear rattling when driving, especially when your car idles. Stalls and Hard Starts If you hear rattling noises from under your car, and the converter causes it, replacing it as soon as possible is best. When the mesh inside the converter breaks up, it can make its way into the muffler and cause severe damage. Once the material enters the muffler, you may struggle with stalling and difficulty starting your car. Typically, a converter's lifespan is around 100,000 miles or a decade. A malfunctioning converter can cause frustrating car problems. However, if you notice symptoms of a faulty converter, there's no need to worry. Call Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith now to schedule an expert replacement and make all your vehicle problems a thing of the past.

Image via Pixabay At Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith, AR, we can tell you that car maintenance is the key to a smooth and safe driving experience. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, life has other plans, and we find ourselves dealing with an unexpected flat tire. more 1. Safety First Before anything else, ensure you're in a safe location. If you're on a busy road, pull off to the side or into a parking lot. Switch on your hazard lights and make sure your parking brake is engaged. 2. Gather Necessary Tools Before you can change your tire, you'll need a few essential tools. These include a car jack, a lug wrench, and of course, a spare tire. Most cars come equipped with these tools in the trunk, so it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with their location in advance. 3. Loosen the Lug Nuts Before you lift the car, use your lug wrench to slightly loosen each lug nut on the flat. Turn the lug wrench counterclockwise. Do not remove the lug nuts entirely yet. 4. Position and Raise the Car Jack Place the jack under the car's frame close to the tire. Ensure the jack is on a firm and stable surface. Raise the car slowly until the tire is off the ground. Make sure the car is steady before proceeding. 5. Remove the Tire Now, remove the lug nuts completely and set them aside in a place where they won't roll away. Once done, grip the tire by its treads and pull it towards you until it's free from the hub. 6. Mount the Spare Tire Align the holes of the spare tire with the lug bolt posts on the hub. Push the spare onto the hub until you can see the lug bolts through the rim's holes. 7. Hand-Tighten the Lug Nuts Start by screwing the lug nuts back on by hand. Ensure they're as tight as possible without using the wrench. This will ensure the tire is properly seated. 8. Lower the Vehicle and Tighten Using the car jack, carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. Once the car is securely on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten each lug nut in a crisscross pattern. Make sure they're as tight as possible to ensure safe driving. Get Regular Car Maintenance in Fort Smith, AR to Avoid a Flat Well, it's impossible to guarantee that you'll never experience a flat, you have a much better chance of avoiding one if you get regular maintenance at the dealership. This maintenance will include inspections of the tire and tire rotations to help you have a better chance of avoiding a flat. Remember that regular tire maintenance and inspections are your best defense against unexpected flats or blowouts. Whether you need some maintenance or have just had a flat, bring your car to us at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith for expert care.

Owning a car is one of the biggest commitments you make in life, regardless of whether it's new or used. Regular car maintenance is essential to keep your used vehicle running at its best. To help you stay ahead of any potential issues, we've put together four maintenance tips for car owners that will go a long way in helping protect your investment. more 1. Have Your Vehicle Regularly Checked by an Experienced Dealer One important way to stay on top of your car's condition is by scheduling regular inspections at an authorized dealership. The technicians at the dealership can inspect every aspect of your car, from adjusting tire pressure and brakes to examining spark plugs and air filters, all of which are fundamental to keeping your car running smoothly and safely. The technicians can also check the battery, refill fluids such as antifreeze or engine coolant, and check the condition of your belts or hoses. With regular servicing from a certified dealer, you can feel confident driving on the roads knowing that you are safe in a car that has been properly inspected and maintained. 2. Get Your Oil Changed Changing the engine oil, as the manufacturer recommends, is crucial to keeping your car running in good condition. Doing so can extend the life of a vehicle by helping reduce friction and wear on engine parts. Furthermore, replacing worn-out oil with new oil helps keep your engine clean and reduces the risks of dirt buildup that can lead to expensive repairs down the line. 3. Repair Wear and Scratches While the occasional dent or scratch in your car can easily be overlooked, it's crucial to get them repaired. Not only can dents and scratches detract from your car's overall aesthetic, but if left unattended, they can eventually cause rust and further damage. Fortunately, you don't have to tackle these repairs on your own. Your dealership is a great resource for dealing with this kind of work. 4. Use the Correct Fuel for Your Car Gasoline, diesel, and even alternative fuels like ethanol or biodiesel can provide power, but their use depends on the make and model of the car. Each of these fuels comes with its own set of advantages. However, using the wrong fuel for your car can cause serious issues such as corrosion, engine stalling, or complete engine failure. Furthermore, incorrect fuel usage may nullify any existing warranty from the manufacturer, making costly repairs out-of-pocket. Our team is dedicated to keeping your car running in peak condition. Whether you need an oil change, brake repair, or new tires, we have you covered. Contact Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith to schedule an appointment today and get ready to hit the roads with confidence.

How long has it been since your last tire rotation? Maintaining a safe and dependable vehicle requires regular tire maintenance, and there are many benefits to getting this service. If it has been too long since your last rotation, don't stress. At Rath Auto Resources, we can help you get the quality auto care you need in Fort Smith, AR. more Every vehicle is different, but many drivers get their tires rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. However, this can vary by vehicle model and other factors. If you aren't sure if you need a rotation, you can easily find out. It is always a wise idea to look in your owner's manual for information about the service schedule for your specific vehicle model. Your owner's manual is a valuable resource that explains all the basics of essential vehicle care. Of course, if you have any questions about services for your vehicle, we would be happy to help. Don't hesitate to give us a call. The Benefits of Regular Rotations Regular rotations help spread the wear on your tires, which allows them to wear out more evenly, making your tires last longer. Preserving the life of your tires also means you won't need to change them as often. Changing your tires can be expensive, so you will love saving money and time. Getting your tires rotated can also improve your driving experience and help your vehicle drive more efficiently. They will also be less susceptible to damage. When you take good care of your tires, you will be less likely to have tire problems on the road, which could leave you stranded. Where To Get Quality Vehicle Service in Fort Smith, AR Many people put off getting regular rotations because they don't feel like they have the time. They may also find it inconvenient. We take the stress out of tire care. When you get car care from us, you will have access to qualified technicians, great deals, and dependable service. You can schedule your next appointment online at a time that is convenient for you. We will help ensure that you get all the benefits of regular rotations without the hassle. Don't overlook tire care if you want to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Contact us at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith today, and we can help you get the services you need for your car. If you are looking for a reliable vehicle, we can also help you with that. We are ready to assist you with any of your automotive needs. We hope to see you soon!

More and more people are deciding to buy used cars because it allows them to skip the cost of depreciation. The quality of pre-owned vehicles can be extremely high, especially if you buy them from a reputable dealership. Today, we'll examine some of the car safety features you might want to look out for when purchasing your next vehicle from us. more 1. Airbags If you crash, the airbag inflates and protects you and your passengers from serious injuries. Before you buy a used vehicle, find out whether there are any airbags and if so, which part of the body they are meant to protect. Front airbags generally prevent head injuries, while side airbags are meant to shield the driver or passenger from debris flying into the car and protect them from hitting the side of the vehicle. When you buy a car that includes airbags, it's important to consider that they can be counter-productive if you're not careful. You should always wear a seatbelt because you could get hurt by the airbag if you don't. Similarly, children under the age of 12 will need to sit in the back because the airbag could injure them. 2. Braking Assistance Some newer vehicles include anti-lock braking assistance, which prevents the wheels from locking when a driver panics and hits the brakes very hard. This can help them to avoid skidding, continue steering the car, and regain control over the situation. An anti-lock braking system can be extremely useful and prevent serious accidents. If your car has an ABS, you should find out whether it also includes brake assist, which helps you to deploy your brakes more quickly when you don't depress the pedal enough. 3. Electronic Stability Control Electronic stability control might have a different name depending on which manufacturer you choose, but your dealer can help you find cars with this system. It is a complex mechanism that helps you in difficult situations. For example, it can sense when you are oversteering or understeering, and it activates the brakes one wheel at a time. As a result, you can avoid getting stuck on a curb, accidentally leaving the road, or even rolling over. 4. Good Seatbelts and Headrests Every car currently on the market has headrests and seatbelts, but not all of them were created equal. You should choose a vehicle that has a foam cushion in the headrest, which can protect you during an accident. Similarly, seatbelts should have energy management features, which prevent them from injuring passengers' ribs during a collision. If possible, you should also get seatbelts with adjustable upper belts that can accommodate a wide variety of people. Just because a vehicle isn't brand-new doesn't mean it can't be safe. At the dealership, we sell many cars that have excellent safety features such as braking assistance, electronic stability control, and airbags. Contact us now at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith and ask to speak to one of our salespeople. They will be more than happy to show you our current inventory and explain the safety features of each car.

Your vehicle's radiator keeps the engine cool and prevents it from overheating. The radiator can only perform effectively if all the components of the cooling system work as they should. In the following article, we will discuss why it is vital not to ignore the warning signs and get a radiator repair as soon as possible. more Time for a Radiator Repair? 5 Reasons Not to Ignore the Signs 1. Leaks Will Cause Overheating A common sign of radiator problems is leaking. When you see a red or green puddle under your car, it's a sure sign that there is a coolant leak. Radiator leaks are caused by cracks or degrading or loose hoses, which will allow the fluid to escape. Coolant runs between the radiator and the hot engine. This creates pressure which in time will affect the radiator hoses. When there is a leak, it will ultimately lead to overheating. To solve the problem, your technician will have to replace the radiator hoses. 2. Contaminated Coolant Will Clog Up the Radiator When the coolant changes from a healthy red or green color into a brown, oily sludge, it's a sign that the fluid has been contaminated. This sludge will clog up the radiator and prevent it from cooling down the engine. In turn, this will lead to overheating and engine problems. A coolant flush is needed to get rid of all the buildup and clear the system. 3. Rust Will Lead to Corrosion With the combination of liquid, air, and metal, rust is bound to set in, and if it's not sorted out fast, it could damage the cooling system and get into the engine. When a radiator becomes rusty, the rust mixes with the coolant a thick sludge is formed. This can lead to corrosion. There are two ways to see if rust is setting in. You will see the rust on the outside of the radiator. The coolant will also have a brownish color. The radiator will have to be flushed, and the coolant will be replaced. 4. Overheating Will Occur When Idling or Driving If you notice that the temperature gauge spikes when your vehicle is idling, it could be caused by a broken or failing radiator fan. The fan draws air in to cool down the radiator while driving at low speeds or idling. When the fan stops working, your vehicle's temperature will rise when in traffic or waiting at an intersection. 5. Overheating will Cause White Steam or Smoke The white smoke could be coming from under the hood or from the tailpipe. The smoke is caused by an internal coolant leak and will lead to your vehicle overheating. Either way, pull over immediately when it's safe and wait for your vehicle to cool down. This is a serious problem, and our best advice is to contact your technician straight away and ask for assistance. A faulty radiator that is not fixed immediately could cause extensive damage that will be expensive to repair. Contact Rath Auto Resources today. One of our expert technicians will do a thorough radiator inspection and ensure that your vehicle's cooling system is in excellent working order.

The braking system on your vehicle is one of the most critical components to ensure is always working properly. After all, it is the only thing preventing you from crashing into objects because you can't stop. However, drivers sometimes forget to have their brakes inspected on a regular basis and may not know the steps to take when you need to get a brake repair. Get Your Brakes Inspected The first step to take when you think you may need to get your brakes fixed is to take your vehicle to a service center for inspection. Often, this is done at the same time as an oil change, but if you notice that your brakes have gotten mushy or you need more pressure on the brake pedal to stop your vehicle, then you should take your vehicle into a service center immediately to have them checked out. more Another sign that it's time for brake service is a squealing or grinding sound coming from your tires when you stop your vehicle. Brake pads are equipped with a sliver of metal that becomes exposed as your pads wear down. Eventually, as the brake pads wear away, the metal sliver comes in contact with the rotors, causing it to squeal. Grinding is even more serious because that means the metal is entirely worn down. Ask About Specials If a service center inspects your brakes and tells you that they need to be repaired, ask about any specials the center is currently offering. In many cases, there will be a deal on parts, including brake pads and rotors. Often, these deals will also include installation, so you don't have to worry about installing them yourself. Typically, you can get your brake inspection free if you opt to have them repaired at the service center. Other service centers might offer you a prepaid gift card if you purchase your brake parts through them, or a brand may be offering a rebate on the brake pads you need to replace. Still other centers may have a discounted brake service package that includes brake pads, machining your rotors, cleaning and lubrication, and brake line inspection. Whatever the deal, it will save you some money if you ask about these specials or coupons before your brakes are serviced. Choose Factory Parts If you decide not to go to your vehicle manufacturer's service center to fix your brakes, be sure you choose genuine brand-specific brake parts if you need to have any replaced. This is because not all pads will fit well with your vehicle, but your manufacturer has specified which parts have been designed for your vehicle's exact make, model, and year. These should be the parts you use for the best results. Of course, if you have your brakes inspected and repaired at your vehicle manufacturer's service center or dealership, you can be sure that only factory-specific parts will be used to replace your work pads and rotors. Not only that, but you'll get superior service from factory-trained technicians as well. This way, you can be sure that your vehicle is in the best possible hands as it is repaired. Getting your brakes repaired is probably not something you look forward to doing, but if you don't, the consequences could be extremely dangerous. Call Rath Auto Resources now to schedule your brake inspection and get the process of fixing your brakes in motion.

As long as you maintain it regularly and make repairs when needed, a good vehicle can serve you and your family for years or even decades. However, every car eventually experiences so much wear that it becomes difficult to operate. Here are some of the most common signs that you should trade in your old car for a newer model with better features and more power. 1. You Need Repairs Often No matter how new your ride is, you'll always need regular maintenance and some occasional repair. However, when problems become more frequent and severe, it could be a sign that your vehicle is reaching the end of its life. Having to get constant repairs is annoying and inconvenient, and the costs for replacing important components such as the transmission often exceeds the value of an older car, truck, or SUV. Instead of dealing with constant issues and worrying about whether you can make it to your next destination without a breakdown, use the money you would otherwise spend on repairs to invest in a newer vehicle. more 2. Fuel Efficiency Drops If you notice that your visits to the gas pump are becoming more and more frequent, it may be a sign that your engine's efficiency is falling. At first, the increase in cost may seem small, but those dollars and cents can pile up quickly over time. The drop in efficiency could be from a relatively minor issue like a dirty fuel injector, or you could have a more severe problem. You should get your car inspected by a professional to find out how much repairs will cost. Since newer vehicles are much more efficient than the options available a few years ago, replacing your car will make your fuel costs lower than ever. Using an efficient hybrid or electric vehicle can reduce your transportation costs most over time. 3. Your Vehicle Becomes Unsafe If your car's axles become unstable, your engine's pistons knock loudly and frequently, or your belt system is wearing out belts regularly, you could have an issue that risks the safety of you and your passengers. Unstable axles can lead to a lost wheel or a broken axle, causing a serious accident. Replacing belts can often get expensive quickly, and you could get into a wreck if a belt snaps while you're moving down a highway. Engine pistons that knock loudly often signal an upcoming engine failure. If you start hearing strange noises, have your vehicle checked by an expert. You could also notice a burning smell from excess friction on your belts, an engine that's too hot, or faulty wiring. Your vehicle's electronics could stop working, and you could even have to deal with a fire near the engine. These risks often mean that insuring an older vehicle is more expensive than insuring a newer car. Many insurance companies also give discounts for safety and driver assistance features such as lane-keeping assistance, blind spot warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. When it's time to trade in your old vehicle, head to Rath Auto Services. Their experienced staff will guide you through their impressive inventory and help you find your ideal vehicle. Image via RathAuto.com

Driving abilities change as we age. When you first started driving, you were probably fearless and taking risks you shouldn't have. When you became an adult, you probably became more cautious, especially if you were carting around children. As you enter your senior years, you might find that physical changes might impair your reaction time behind the wheel. Keep reading to learn more about six tips you can follow when driving if you're a senior citizen. Wear Your Seat Belt Although this is a given, make sure you buckle your seat belt before you start the vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seat belt use in passenger vehicles saved 14,955 lives in 2017. The NHTSA also states that the most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a crash is to wear a seat belt as it keeps you from being ejected from the vehicle. more Stay on Familiar Roads It's easy to get confused while driving, so you might want to drive only on roads that you're familiar with. Staying on familiar roads can decrease the chances for you getting lost. If you must drive on unknown roads, try to map out your route before you leave the house. Try to memorize the route as best you can so you're not relying on a map while you drive. Be Cautious While Driving at Night You might experience changes in your vision that affect your vision when it gets dark. General darkness and the glare from oncoming vehicle headlights might make it more difficult to see. If this is the case, avoid driving at night. However, if that's not possible, use well-lit streets and consider having a family member or friend accompany you. Take a Refresher Course It's okay to know your limitations and ask for help. Consider taking a refresher driving course through local organizations or community education program. Updating your driving skills might also provide you with a discount on your car insurance. Visit a Physician It's important to continue regular checkup with your physician who can determine if you're physically able to drive. This includes having your eyesight and hearing checked. Wearing glasses or contacts with the correct prescription can help you see the road better, and outfitting your ears with hearing aids can ensure you hear properly. Know Your Medications You might take medications to deal with chronic illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes. Check to see if these medications you're taking can make you drowsy or less alert than usual. If you take more than one medication, they might conflict with each other. Taking these medications that have certain side effects and then getting behind the wheel can inhibit your driving ability. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, in the United States, there were almost 42 million licensed drivers age 65 or older. It's imperative that you take great care when driving, especially in your later years. By following these six tips, you can continue driving well into your golden years while keeping yourself and others on the road safe. Image via Flickr by RichardBH

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has recently amended its Used Car Rule. This adjustment will mean a lot for buyers in the used car market. Take a look at what this rule is, how it has changed, what this means for buyers, and how the FTC is keeping dealerships in check. The Used Car Rule The Used Car Rule is an FTC regulation that has been in place since 1985. Previously called the Used Motor Vehicle Trade Regulation Rule, this standard required that car dealers display a window sticker with pertinent information about every used car for sale. This information is also called a “Buyer's Guide” and used to include details such as: more Whether a warranty is available or included with the vehicle as well as its terms and conditions and the type of coverage provided What portion of covered repairs the dealer will pay What systems the warranty covers This ruling was enforced in all states — even those that don't permit selling a used car without a warranty. In such a case, a special type of Buyer's Guide had to be displayed in the window. How the Rule Has Changed The FTC has changed the ruling following a self-audited that investigated the efficiency of this system. The new version of the regulation, which has been in effect since January 2018, still requires that used cars for sale display a Buyer's Guide in the window. However, this guide must now include more detailed warranty information, such as: How the dealership will repair parts that fail and are covered by the warranty How recall notices will be issued A note prompting the buyer to ask the dealer if a third-party mechanic can inspect the vehicle before making a purchase These changes were made after the FTC scrutinized buyer's comments and feedback and personally inspected thousands of used vehicles on dozens of lots across the country. What the Rule Means for Buyers The rule means that buyers will have access to more and better information about the vehicles they're considering purchasing. Understanding warranty coverage is vital for consumers, and the FTC's changes will keep dealerships accountable in this regard. How the FTC Is Keeping Dealerships in Check The FTC keeps dealerships in check through audits such as the one it performed while conducting research on how it would revise the Used Car Rule. If a dealership isn't compliant with regard to the new regulations, the FTC will provide information about how it can meet the requirements. If the dealership still does not comply, the FTC can issue fines of up to $41,484 per violation. Moreover, if a consumer purchases a vehicle and there's an issue with misinformation or confusion about the warranty due to the lack of a proper Buyer's Guide, the case can go to court. The changes to the Used Car Rule help to protect buyers and make sure they have all the information they need to make a wise purchase. Remember to check for a Buyer's Guide on every vehicle you're considering, and don't hesitate to ask the car dealer if you have any questions. Photo by Michel Curi | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

The approaching holiday season means road trips, which often lead to meltdowns for your kids on the road. These are unpleasant and also distracting for drivers and can turn an anticipated relaxing retreat into a stressful ordeal. Be prepared for the inevitable with these four ways to deal with meltdowns in the car this holiday season. Leave on Time and Be Prepared A sure way to reduce stress on the road is to leave on time and be prepared. If you're chasing the clock the entire time during the drive, your anxiety will naturally increase. Your passengers will be feeling some stress due to the time crunch, as well. This not only increases the likelihood of a meltdown or argument but will also make it much harder to take a breath and deal with the situation. more You can mitigate this issue by leaving on time and giving yourself enough space in your schedule for delays. This way, if you're slow getting out the door, you'll be spending the time you budgeted just for that purpose. You'll also give yourself enough time to make your car a more convenient and entertaining space for traveling, which can minimize meltdowns and make them easier to manage. Organize Your Vehicle Just like being in a time crunch, traveling in a cluttered, unorganized space will amplify the stress of being in a vehicle for a long time. Clean your car before leaving, and add some organizers to help keep it that way on the road. A garbage bag hanger that goes behind the front passenger's seat, for example, can keep the vehicle neat and make traveling and dealing with meltdowns much easier. Schedule Stops to Manage Meltdown-Triggering Issues If you understand what causes meltdowns on the road, you can better manage them. Your kids may just get bored or perhaps they're feeling motion sick or cramped. Set aside some time in your schedule to check for these specific issues. For example, instead of eating lunch while you drive, plan for a picnic at a rest stop along the way. This way, everyone can stretch their legs and get some much-needed sunlight. Picnicking rather than stopping for fast food so you can keep driving also gives you more control over everyone's diet. It may seem more convenient to stop for a minute at a drive-thru and get back on the road, but greasy foods will leave everyone feeling lethargic and cranky as time goes on. Add Some Overnight Stops Another tip is to break your trip into manageable portions, if possible. If your destination is more than eight hours away, turning the journey into a multi-day drive with hotel stops can help everyone get restful sleep and help you reorganize. This can also give you more flexibility in your schedule since you won't have to travel so far in a single day. Road trips are stressful if you don't plan ahead. If you're traveling with kids, prepare for the inevitable by leaving on time, being prepared and organizing, and scheduling plenty of stops to keep everyone as comfortable as possible. Photo by trevoronim | Licensed under cc BY 2.0