AAA Claims Cost of Vehicle Ownership is Down

Let Checkered Flag help you keep car ownership cost even lower.

Owning and Operating Your Vehicle Just Got a Little Cheaper AAA's 2014 "Your Driving Costs" Study

Average cost for sedans decreases 2.7 percent to 59.2 cents per mile

VIRGINA BEACH, Va. (May 9, 2014): AAA released the results of its annual "Your Driving Costs" study, revealing a 2.7 percent decrease in the cost to own and operate a sedan in the U.S. The average cost fell 1.64 cents to 59.2 cents per mile, or $8,876 per year, based upon 15,000 miles of annual driving.

"Despite increases in maintenance and registration fees, American motorists are experiencing an overall decrease in the cost to own and operate a vehicle," said Georjeane Blumling, Vice President of Public Affairs for AAA Tidewater Virginia. "A large decrease in fuel costs and lower tire, insurance and depreciation expenses are saving owners more than one and a half cents on every mile they drive."

In-depth findings of this year's study, including a breakdown of specific costs by category of vehicle and various annual mileages, are contained in the "Your Driving Costs" brochure which is available at select local AAA branch offices .

Blumling continued, "The true cost of vehicle ownership involves more than the sticker price and what you pay at the pump. Before you make any vehicle purchase, it is important to determine ownership and operational costs and compare them to your current and future financial situation." To assist consumers in determining their individual driving costs, the AAA "Your Driving Costs"brochure contains a worksheet that can be filled out and personalized for a specific area, driver and vehicle.

Fuel Costs Down more than 10 Percent

Fuel costs had the single largest percentage decrease from 2013 to 2014, declining 10.04 percent to 13 cents per mile. The average cost of regular grade fuel fell 5.96 percent, from $3.486 to $3.278 per gallon. At the same time, vehicle redesigns and improved power train technologies that take into account higher federal Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards has the effect of improving the average fuel economy of sedans used in the study.  Fuel costs in the 2014 study were calculated using the national average price for regular unleaded gasoline during the fourth quarter of 2013.

Maintenance Costs Up 1.81 Percent

This year maintenance costs increased nearly two percent to 5.06 per mile on average for sedan owners. AAA?s estimates are based upon the cost to maintain a vehicle and perform needed repairs for five years and 75,000 miles, including labor expenses, replacement part prices and the purchase of an extended warranty policy.  For 2014, some vehicles had lower costs due to longer service intervals or reduced labor times, while others experienced an increase in labor times and/or part prices that led to a rise in maintenance costs. AAA experts also identified an increasing number of vehicles requiring low-viscosity semi- or full-synthetic motor oils, which cost more than conventional oils but provide better fuel economy, added engine protection and allow for longer oil change intervals.

Tire Costs Decrease Three Percent

After several years of increases due rising costs for raw materials, energy and transportation, tire prices for 2014 have decreased three percent to 0.97 cents per mile. The decrease can be credited to two main factors; some redesigned sedans now come equipped with less expensive tires and some tire prices have declined.

Insurance Costs Decrease 0.58 Percent

In 2014, average insurance costs remain essentially unchanged at an average annual cost of $1,023, compared to $1,029 last year. Insurance rates vary widely by driver and driving record, issuing company and geographical region. AAA insurance cost estimates are based on a low-risk driver with a clean driving record and for 2014 this group saw a negligible premium decrease. Premium quotes, covering seven states across the country and insurance companies from five AAA clubs, showed minor declines for most small and medium sedans, with large cars having small increases.

Depreciation Costs Fall 1.71 Percent

After a small rise in depreciation last year, the tide has turned and depreciation decreased for 2014 to $3,510 per year from $3,571. While the numbers are improved in all three sedan categories, they are particularly strong in the medium-size area where several very desirable redesigned models have been introduced.

64rd Year of "Your Driving Costs" Study

AAA has published "Your Driving Costs" since 1950. That year, driving a car 10,000 miles per year cost 9 cents per mile, and gasoline sold for 27 cents per gallon.

The "Your Driving Costs" study employs a proprietary AAA methodology to analyze the cost to own and operate a vehicle in the United States. Variable operating costs considered in the study include fuel, maintenance and repair, and tires. Fixed ownership costs factored into the results include insurance, license and registration fees, taxes and depreciation and finance charges. Ownership costs are calculated based on the purchase of a new vehicle that is driven over five years and 75,000 miles. Your actual operating costs may vary. See AAA's 2013 "Your Driving Costs" brochure for a list of vehicles and additional information on the underlying criteria used in the study.

End of article excerpt. 

It is always wise to consider the overall cost of any vehicle you plan to purchase.  Checkered Flag can help you with that.  While it is important to do your own research, our top-trained associates can help you find the perfect vehicle for your specific needs and budget. 

One great way to save on your average yearly cost is to invest in a hybrid vehicle.  As the article points out, a move to more efficient vehicles is having an overall lowering effect on the total cost of owning a vehicle.  For a full list of best fuel economy cars and hybrid vehicles, call our Checkered Flag experts at (757)687-3447.  

And, don't forget to take advantage of your Checkered Flag service agreements.  Many of our vehicle brands include complimentary maintenance plans.  A properly maintained vehicle will cost less over the life of the vehicle.  So, make sure you bring your vehicle in for all recommended service visits.  Call your Checkered Flag service department at (757)490-1111 with any questions or to set up an appointment.

Article source: [AAA.com]

$12,000 Off New Jaguar XJ Models

 

This July, you can find the best deal on the 2014 Jaguar XJ and XJL at our Virginia Beach Jaguar store.

$12,000 off MSRP New 2014 Jaguar XJ Models

See dealer for full details.   Includes all factory incentives.  Subject to credit approval.  Tax, title, license, $599 dealer processing fee extra.

For more information about the 2014 Jaguar XJ, or to set up your own test drive here at our Virginia Beach Jaguar location, call Checkered Flag Jaguar at (757)687-3447.

Summer Safety: How to Change a Flat Tire

That little tire pressure indicator light comes on and you just keep driving.  Next thing you know, you're stuck on the side of the road with a flat.  Do you know what to do?

Every driver on the road should know how to change a flat tire.

Yes, even of those of you with roadside service need to learn for yourselves.   If you have never had a flat, then count yourself lucky, because most of us, at one point or another will have to deal with this frustrating experience, and, if you are like me, it will almost certainly be on the way to a wedding, interview, or some other important engagement.

Nearly all vehicles sold at any Checkered Flag location have a fifth, or spare tire.  Spares are usually located at either the back of the vehicle, underneath, or under the trunk floor.  Each vehicle also comes equipped with a jack similar to the one in the following video.  In my car, like many new vehicles, the jack is located in a different area than the spare.  Knowing where all of your required tools are before heading out on the road is imperative.

Remember, as the gentleman points out in the video, your fifth or spare tire can lose air just as your other four tires will.  It is important to check your spare periodically.  Some newer vehicles including have sensors that will alert you if your spare tire pressure is low.  Check your owner's manual to find out if your vehicle has such a sensor.  If your tire pressure sensor goes off, and you are unable to attain the reason, or you have any other concerns with any of your tires, contact your Hampton Roads Auto Service Center as soon as possible.  To contact Checkered Flag Service directly, find any of our service centers at the following link or call (757)490-1111.  Virginia Beach Automotive Service

And don't forget, new tires are available through every Checkered Flag Virginia Beach Auto Parts Department.

Will Cars Fly in Our Lifetime?

Is the flying car really going to happen in our lifetime? 

When I was a child, I was certain we'd be flying to the grocery store by now.  But, as fast as technology is changing, somehow, we are still glued to the ground.  Well, maybe not for long.

Terrafugia wants to build hybrid flying car
Computer controlled, plug-in hybrid concept would require as little as 5 hours training to fly.
By Paul Eisenstein of The Detroit Bureau

Flying cars have long been the stuff of science fiction, though plenty of entrepreneurs and visionaries have struggled to make the concept a reality, including no less than the original Henry Ford.

Several projects are now underway and one, started by a group of MIT alumni, is rapidly working its way towards reality. But the former college cronies apparently are dreaming about taking their original Transition flying car a giant leap further into the wild blue yonder with an even more advanced design they've dubbed the TF-X.

To start with, the four-seater would be capable of vertical take-offs and landings. And since it would largely be controlled by a central computer network, the TF-X would, claims a Terrafugia promotional video, require a pilot/driver to have as little as five hours of training, a slight fraction of what it now takes to get the most basic private pilot's license.

Oh, and if that isn't appealing enough, the team says their newest flying car design would use an environmentally friendly plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The Massachusetts-based Terrafugia has been drawing plenty of attention to itself thanks to the Transition, a $280,000 flying car that has been slowly working its way through the complex product development and federal regulatory process. Just 19 feet long, it was designed to fit inside a typical suburban garage once its 27-foot wings were folded up, allowing it to drive on any conventional road.

"Don't think of it as a car that flies," suggested Carl Dietrich, one of the MIT students now serving as Terrafugia's CEO. "Think of it as a plane that drives."

Perhaps, but beyond the ability to fold up those wings, the Terrafugia would operate pretty much like any aircraft, needing a long runway to get airborne. With the TF-X, the company is moving closer to the sort of craft one might envision the sci-fi cartoon family, the Jetsons, would own.

For one thing, Terrafugia claims the four-seater could get airborne from a level clearing of as little as 100 feet, rotating its twin wing-mounted propeller motors to a vertical position. Airborne, they would rotate back to a conventional, forward position, much like the bigger Osprey flown by the U.S. military.

Once in the air, the TF-X is envisioned as capable of reaching 200 mph and delivering a full 500 miles of range, plus reserves enough for a quick jaunt from Washington, D.C. to Boston, or from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

The craft could be flown manually by a licensed pilot, or essentially flown on an advanced autopilot system requiring only minimal training. The computer network it would plug into, Terrafugia claims, would automatically sidestep crowded air lanes, as well as bad weather, and could land the craft even if the pilot were to become incapacitated. Should a more serious problem occur, the TF-X is outfitted with its own parachute.

So, TF-X "should be statistically safer than driving a modern automobile," the company asserts.

The craft could prove particularly appealing to green-minded flying enthusiasts thanks to its unusual plug-in hybrid powertrain. In total, it will be able to produce 1,500 horsepower, 600 from each of the electric motors driving the propellers, and 300 from the gasoline engine that will serve as a generator when the TF-X's battery pack runs down. (end of article)

For the latest automotive news, stay tuned to the home of your Virginia Beach Jaguar dealer, Checkered Flag.com.

Fun Things to Keep Your Kids Entertained This Summer

 

Checkered Flag fans are some of the luckiest in VA!  There are tons of summer fun options right at your fingertips.  In doing some personal research for things to do with my little school age "creatures" I found a cool resource for fun things to do.

Cool Places for Grade Schoolers

Williamsburg - Jamestown Settlement is the story of America's first permanent English colony. See the replicas of the three ships that sailed from England to Virginia in 1607. Other highlights include the colonists' fort and a Powhatan village.

Chantilly - Sure, you can pick fresh produce and fruit all on your own at Ticonderoga Farms, but the real fun is in the bamboo maze, hayrides, hillside slides, log cabins and hay forts, Noah's Ark, the wishing well, animal petting area, and swinging bridge. It's a day of fun and then some!

Massanutten - Kids can take to the air at Massanutten Resort with pint-sized zip line and canopy tours. Since they'll want to do it over and over again, tickets are very reasonably priced - 3 trips for $12 or 6 for $18. Kids 5 to 12. Don't worry Mom, they have adult tours, too!

Hampton - At the Virginia Air & Space Center, children can experience flight controls and wing walking, ride in a World War II bomber and become an air traffic controller. This is such a cool place, plan to spend the entire day!

Mount Vernon - Take the grand tour of Mount Vernon, George Washington's Estate and Gardens by way of the Kids' Adventure Map, a sleuth's tool to solve nine puzzles. Younger grade schoolers (up to age 8) will enjoy Hands-on History! It's a room dedicated to creative play with 18th century clothing and more.

Natural Bridge - Beneath The Natural Bridge is the Monacan Indian Village depicting Native American woodland culture with real Native Americans explaining their way of life and demonstrating how they lived 300 years ago.

Danville - Encourage your child to explore at the Danville Science Center. See the Butterfly Station, and look for cocoons, mix nectar and map a Monarch's migration. The awesome Outdoor Sound exhibit is another popular attraction!

Roanoke - Mill Mountain Zoo is home to 74 species of mammals, birds and reptiles, including Snow Leopards, Red Pandas, Japanese Macaque, and Andean Condor. Ride the ZooChoo train, too!

Charlottesville - The Virginia Discovery Museum offers plenty of hands-on experience for children ages 1-13. One of the most popular permanent exhibits is See the Bees alive in their hive! A new exhibit is Camping in the Blue Ridge, a hands-on exhibit that explains what camping is all about.

Roanoke - The Science Museum of Western Virginia features a 45-station Science Arcade, all hands-on fun! Children also love the Illusions Gallery, where things aren't all as they appear. The Hopkins Planetarium and MegaDome Theater are part of the total package of this kid-friendly fun place, too.

Ridgeway - Feel the love at Infinity Acres Alpaca Farm & Petting Ranch! Discover the joy and come talk to some of the most adorable animals on earth: goats, alpacas, llamas, horses, ducks, chickens, potbelly pig, miniature donkey, blacksheep, rabbits and more.

Newport News - The Virginia Living Museum is the place to go if you're wild about wildlife. See the combination native wildlife park, science museum, aquarium, botanical preserve and planetarium!

Newport News - The Mariners' Museum features more than 500 years of seafaring adventure! Kids love the cool figureheads and miniature ship models, and they can watch the conservation of real artifacts from the Civil War's ironclad USS Monitor, brought to the surface from its watery grave in the Atlantic Ocean.

Luray - The Luray Zoo displays the largest collection of cold-blooded reptiles in Virginia as well as other wild and wooly creatures. See the lifesize dinosaur replicas, too!

Staunton - The Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton features life on five different farms -- German, Scots-Irish, English, American, and the newest - West African. Kids love watching the farm animals and the farmers doing their chores, and this visit is a great integration with their school curriculum.

Williamsburg - Rent a costume and blend into 18th century Colonial Williamsburg, then check out Revolutionary City®, a place for children to interact with various characters in an informal, intimate setting.

Roanoke - Splash Valley Water Park has 20,000 square feet of amazing fun for children of all ages. Take the plunge on one of two 32-foot water slides, float along a river current, and splash around in a spray area. Bring your little brother and your big sister - lots for the whole family!

Buchanan Glow-A-Rama is an 18 Hole INDOOR BLACKLIGHT MINI-GOLF - with Blacklight Game Room and Blacklight Dance 'N Party Room. Worth the trip, this full amusement center is like no other.

Virginia Beach - Capt. Jack's Pirate Ship Adventures - Ahoy there, me hearties! Jump aboard the Lost Pearl and set sail for adventures on the high seas in search of treasure! Capt. Jack's Pirate Ship Adventures offers an oceanfront adventure cruise aboard a 65 foot US Coast Guard inspected ship. There is face painting, a pirate lesson, games, singing, dancing and lots of other fun. We often see dolphins and other wildlife along the way. At the end of our adventure, we track down Blackbeard and defeat him in a water cannon battle and reclaim our treasure. The children get to share in the treasure as a reward for their participation.

Source: [Virginia.org]

The Hampton Roads area and just beyond are a wealth of adventures for the family.  Although the items listed are for grade schoolers, many of the items are fun for the older ones in your hoard as well.

Good luck in keeping the natives from being restless this summer.  Stay logged in to checkeredflag.com for all the most up to date news and events around Hampton Roads and beyond.

Bridge openings to tie up traffic in Chesapeake Wed and Thur

Chesapeake-traveling Checkered Flag fans, take note.  The Great Bridge Bridge will be opening frequently both Wednesday and Thursday mornings and afternoons. 

Tests scheduled at Chesapeake's Great Bridge Bridge
By Jeff Sheler for The Virginian-Pilot

CHESAPEAKE

The city of Chesapeake announced today that it will conduct test lifts of the Great Bridge Bridge on Wednesday and Thursday.

The bridge is scheduled to open Wednesday at 2, 3 and 4 p.m. and between 10 p.m. and midnight with or without marine traffic, the city said.

It will open at 10 a.m., 11 and noon Thursday.

For the latest in Hampton Roads traffic, stay tuned to Checkered Flag.com.

Source: [pilotonline.com]

Washed Ashore Makes Trash into Treasure

Checkered Flag and their family of new and used car dealers in Hampton Roads is excited to live and work in such an amazing community.  The work that our neighbors do to enhance and beautify their communities is truly inspiring.

The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Museum is playing a role in showcasing and speaking about the debris that washes up on our coast.

Washed Ashore Exhibit

Washed Ashore which runs June 7 - September 28, uses giant sea life sculptures made entirely of marine debris collected from beaches to graphically illustrate the tragedy of pollution in our oceans. Under the artistic direction of Angela Haseltine Pozzi, thousands of volunteers from Oregon and other West Coast beaches have collected tons of marine debris to create the enormous sea life creatures to create several traveling exhibits of Washed Ashore.

Virginia Aquarium Executive Director Lynn Clements said, "The Aquarium's non-profit foundation is pleased to showcase this exhibit here, especially in the summer where locals and visitors can see these amazing artistic creations. With our Stranding Response Team, we are very much aware of the impact of marine debris in our local waterways and we are eager to show others that this is an international issue we all need to address to save our oceans."

"Lidia," a 10 ft. tall seal sculpture will greet visitors near the Aquarium's outdoor seal exhibit and entice visitors to see the remaining 13 sculptures, mostly located in the changing exhibit gallery. Along with unique art pieces, the exhibition includes educational signage and programs that encourage reducing, refusing, reusing and recycling. The exhibit is free with Aquarium admission thanks to the sponsorship of the Lee A. and Helen Gifford Foundation, The Oceanfront Inn, and TFC Recycling.

The Washed Ashore Project: Ocean Awareness Through Art is a non-profit organization based in Oregon. Their mission is to educate and create awareness about marine debris and plastic pollution through art. They do this by collecting plastic waste from beaches and repurposing 98% of it into aesthetically powerful works of art that educate people about the problem and engage them about solutions.

The Virginia Aquarium Foundation is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring conservation of the marine environment through education, research and sustainable practices. The Foundation was formed in 1981, three years before construction on the Aquarium even began. Over the years, the Foundation?s role in support of the Aquarium has not only included garnering financial support to pay for the Aquarium's exhibits, but it has expanded to include funding of education programs, and research and conservation efforts such as the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response and Sensible Seafood programs.

Source: [VA Aquarium and Marine Science Museum]

With so many fun activities it is hard to manage your time while living or visiting Hampton Roads.  Stay logged in to Checkeredflag.com for all the latest news and events around Tidewater.