With winter fast approaching, it's time drivers get ready for the inclement weather ahead. This starts by getting a tune-up for your car, which is why NJ State Auto has its Total Car Care Center open for business. This garage can address any issues your ride may have, but it only represents the first layer of protection against getting stranded this season. 

Expect the worst
If you're a driver in the Northeast, you know winters can be tough. That's why you have to prepare for the absolute worst conditions. Freezing temperatures are just the beginning – you'll likely also have to contend with heaps of snow, slush, icy roads and hail. Make sure your tires are up to snuff. Then turn your attention to windshield wipers, the HVAC system, the car battery and the engine – all of the parts that will be heavily affected by extreme weather. 

Keep the essentials on hand
Part of your preparations should consist of putting together an emergency kit. While you should have some semblance of this in your car already, it's important to check in with your gear to ensure everything is still operating as it should. 

"No matter what region of the country you live, State Farm encourages all drivers to stock their trunk with emergency kits to help if the unexpected happens," said John Nepomuceno, auto safety research administrator from State Farm. "Also, check to make sure all of your supplies are working properly. What's worse than a flat tire? Discovering your spare is flat too."

Some of the basics that all drivers should have include a spare tire, jumper cables, area maps, an ice scraper and brush and a flashlight. Those can help should your car run into trouble, but for human problems, be sure to have a first-aid kit as well. It can also pay to have a spare change of clothes in case the weather gets the best of you. 

Invest in a few extras
The above only includes the basics that all emergency kits should have. If you really want to kick your preparations into high gear, consider adding some more specialized equipment. For example, having road flares and reflective road signs can help you out in the event you get stranded or need to do some emergency work on your car. Another winter staple is road salt. This is key for gaining traction on a slippery surface, but if you don't have any on hand, cat litter can serve the same purpose. 

The holiday season is right around the corner, and that means the time of feasting and visiting loved ones has arrived. Of course, before this can happen, people have to get to their loved ones, which frequently involves road trips. Whether you're traveling through the city or across the country, be sure to know what to expect before you leave. 

Americans are on the move
According to Travel Pulse, there is a 12-day window for Thanksgiving travel this year, extending from Nov. 21 to Dec. 2. The number of air travelers taking to the skies is expected to increase this year, the source reported, but that doesn't mean the highways will be emptier. In fact, with the average price of a gallon of gas dropping below $3 in much of the country, more people may be encouraged to get behind the wheel. 

Last year, more than 43 million Americans traveled more than 50 miles from home to reach their Thanksgiving destination, according to an AAA report. About 90 percent of those drove, which accounts for almost 39 million people on the roads. If this year's numbers are similar, travelers could have to put up with plenty of congestion, especially on the busiest travel days. The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is generally the worst, with more than one-third of people traveling that day. Roughly the same number return on both Saturday and Sunday after the holiday. 

Get your car ready
If you plan on driving somewhere this Thanksgiving, the first thing you should do is make sure your car can handle the trip. Heavy traffic means you could encounter many stop-and-go scenarios, so be sure your brakes can stop on a dime. It could also be beneficial to have a standard tune up, as a professional may be able to identify areas that need quick fixes. Just an extra hour in the shop could result in plenty of time and money saved on the road. 

New Jersey State Auto Auction can help you get any vehicle ready for a road trip. Take your ride into the Total Car Care Center for a tune up, as the garage there caters to the public and can address any issues you may have. Whether you need a simple fix or more extensive repair work, the team of experts at the garage can get you headed in the right direction. 

Traffic in New York City has never been great – just ask anyone who has to try to get to work on time. Still, many people choose to jump in their own cars or use taxis to cross the boroughs. The next time you head into the city, however, you're going to have to slow down. 

Slowing down for safety
Mayor Bill de Blasio recently lowered the default speed limit in the city to 25 mph. While this is only a small drop from the 30 mph limit on most streets, it could be a significant one. The Department of Transportation Commissioner Polly Trottenberg told CBS News that the 5 mph decline halves the risk of a fatality in a crash, which is key for protecting the many pedestrians in the area. 

"I think there's a real consensus in this town that we need to have people drive more carefully, more safely and slower for the protection of our kids, our seniors," de Blasio told reporters, as quoted by CBS News. 

The reduction is part of de Blasio's "Vision Zero" campaign, which aims to decrease the number of traffic deaths in the city. This will undoubtedly take time, but fatalities have already declined through 2014 compared to previous years, and the rollout of this new legislation isn't even complete, according to AutoBlog. 

Will drivers comply? 
The law just went into effect, so it remains to be seen if drivers throughout the city will obey the new rule. Many objected to the change initially, fearing increased police presence and speeding tickets. According to The New York Times, however, the city is not expected to increase ticketing – at least not just yet. It will take some time to update and replace street signs as well, and officials don't want to make an enemy of drivers as they get used to the new reduced speed. 

Anyone in or around New York City will need to make sure they comply with these rules – and that means having a vehicle that can handle the braking and accelerating of urban traffic. That's where New Jersey State Auto comes into play. Not only does the auction lot have hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans for sale, but there's also a garage that can address issues relating to driving performance. 

With Halloween looming large, your mind is probably consumed by things like candy, costumes and zombies. Of course, the zombies you're thinking of are probably more of the flesh-eating, decaying monster type than the ones with four wheels. That's because not many are aware of zombie cars – but you should be, as these vehicles are more common than you may think. 

What's a zombie car? 
A zombie car is any vehicle that has been discontinued as a brand. Although new versions of these models may not be hitting the streets, plenty of older ones are still present. In fact, Experian Automotive found that nearly 6 percent of the almost 250 million cars on the road today qualify as zombie cars. 

Among these vehicles, the most popular is Pontiacs, which make up more than 32 percent of the zombie car population. That easily outpaced second-place Mercurys, which comprised 19.4 percent, and the third-place Saturns, which came in at 16.1 percent, according to Experian. Also making a mark was Oldsmobile and Suzuki, although those numbers are a bit lower. 

The plague hits New York
Of all of the cities in the U.S., New York was one of the most popular for zombie cars. Approximately 3 percent of all vehicles in the city's metro area fall into the zombie category, which is second only behind Chicago's 3.4 percent. It also makes New York narrowly ahead of Detroit, Los Angeles and Minneapolis, which all range from 2.7 to 2.4 percent. 

Upgrading your zombie
Are you driving a zombie vehicle, or one that's close enough to make no matter? Then you may be in the mood to upgrade. Regardless of what brand you're thinking of switching to, the selection at New Jersey State Auto Auction may have what you're looking for. The lot contains hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans, as well as an in-house financing department that's dedicated to helping you get the ride you want. 

Maybe you drive a zombie car and love it. If that's the case, never fear, as the right vehicle maintenance can keep your vehicle running for many more full moons. Schedule an appointment at the Total Car Care Center if you're concerned about your ride's performance, as the garage can address any issues you may have. 

Drivers along the East Coast are prepping for winter, but this process requires more than simply buying an ice scraper and hoping for the best. To stay safe no matter what the weather is like, many drivers are turning to car upgrades such as snow tires, which are designed to handle whatever the winter brings. 

The perks of winter tires
Winter tires have several advantages for drivers. The wheels are different from all-season tires in that they provide better traction through deeper treads and more specific materials. This allows them to move snow and slush away from the car while maintaining a strong grip on icy roads. They're also engineered to perform well even as the temperature plummets. 

Some people may not see the need to invest in these winter tires. If you aren't expecting a harsh winter or don't think you'll be doing a lot of heavy driving throughout the season, then the tires might not be worthwhile. Additionally, vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive may be all set for inclement weather. It simply depends on your personal preference and expectations. 

Are they right for you? 
Are you thinking that these seasonal wheels might be a good fit? There's no real right or wrong answer – it's mostly about how you feel on the road and whether you mind investing in vehicle safety. It also could depend on the driver or car. For instance, you may be confident in your capabilities but have a younger family member who is inexperienced behind the wheel or driving an older car. In that case, winter tires might be a confidence booster for him or her. 

"The bottom line for consumers is being aware of the severe winter driving conditions they might face," said Steve Rohweder, the director of consumer tire technology for Goodyear. "Based on past experiences, do they feel their winter weather is moderate enough to choose a year-round tire, or are they mandated to use winter tires? Or do they face sometimes severe winter weather, and they prefer the peace of mind offered by true winter tires?"

Whether you want winter tires or just feel the need to have a tune-up before winter arrives, call up NJ State Auto Auction and schedule an appointment with the Total Car Care Center. The experts at this garage can address any issues you may have, including some of the most pressing matters that will pop up during the colder months. 

Gas prices can make or break a car budget. With all of the money you're already spending on insurance payments, loans and general upkeep, you're probably feeling the crunch of the bottom line. The last thing you need is the high cost of fuel adding even more strain on your wallet. 

Drivers don't need to give up the open road to save money, however. There are a few strategies and recent trends car owners can take advantage of to keep more money in their pockets. 

Gas prices falling 
There's good news for drivers: Gas prices are currently hitting a 44-month low point. AAA reported that the national average dropped to $3.10 per gallon, which is the lowest it has been since early 2011. If the downward trend continues, prices across the nation could fall below $3 for the first time in several years – in fact, 17 states already posted average costs below this mark. 

According to the AAA report, prices have decreased by about 10 percent in the weeks since Labor Day. Gas costs continue to fall in every state and Washington, D.C., meaning there's plenty of opportunities to save for all American drivers. 

Save even more with maintenance
While the average price of a gallon of gas is dropping across the U.S., motorists don't have to rely on the costs dropping to save money. They can also cut expenses by getting preventative maintenance, which allows a car to perform at the highest possible level and increases its fuel efficiency. That means less gas is needed to operate the vehicle and more money is saved. 

"Gas prices are expected to fall below $3 per gallon on average, and that means motorists can count on significant savings at the pump," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "A small investment in simple and inexpensive auto care will add up to better fuel economy and even more savings."

Are you ready to focus on your car's maintenance? If the answer is yes, you shouldn't hesitate to schedule an appointment at the Total Car Care Center at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The garage caters to the public and is capable of addressing any issues you may have. 

Oct. 31 has the potential to be one of the most fun nights of the year. Whether you're trick-or-treating with your family or heading out to a wild costume party, however, you still need to remain safe on this night of mischief. You also need to make sure your car is out of danger, but this task may take a bit of effort. 

"Halloween is often thought of as a prankster's holiday, one that attracts any and all kinds of criminals," said Patrick Clancy, vice president of LoJack's law enforcement team. "However, we aren't just seeing petty crimes and joy riding. Now, criminals are smarter, more educated and aware of how to steal in the dead of night."

Here are three ways you can thwart mischief-makers on Halloween – and any other day, for that matter. 

1. Keep your lights on
Darkness may be a running theme on Halloween, but it is also an ally for any would-be criminals. Leave outside lights on for as long as possible, even if it means you have to deal with a few late-night trick-or-treaters. You should also always have your headlights on as you drive, even if it is relatively early in the day. Young children typically start trick-or-treating before nightfall, and some of their costumes may cause them to blend in with their surroundings. 

2. Don't be lazy
If you're driving around a neighborhood on Halloween, it can be tempting to leave your car running while you escort your family up to the door for some trick-or-treating. However, this leaves your car ripe for theft or break-ins. Instead of letting your laziness take over, make the extra effort to completely turn your car off and pocket your keys as needed. 

3. Hide your valuables
It may sound obvious, but you shouldn't be leaving anything of value out in the open in your car, even if it's locked. You may have brought a camera to snap a few pictures of your companions in their Halloween costumes or have your cellphone on hand in case of emergencies. Consider keeping these objects either on your person or locked securely in a glove compartment. 

Want to make sure your ride can handle Halloween? Schedule an appointment at New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center. This garage caters to the public and is capable of addressing any issues you may have, getting every aspect of your vehicle up to par. 

You've probably heard the phrase "Fall back, spring ahead" as it applies to daylight saving time. While this quote is an easy way to remember which way you're supposed to change your clocks, it can also be a handy method of reminding yourself to schedule car maintenance. 

Why does daylight saving matter? 
Daylight saving occurs twice each year, and both times signify an upcoming change in weather. When the clocks "fall back" in November, for instance, it's a signal that you need to get ready for frigid temperatures, snowfall and icy roads. Because prepping for winter weather can be rather intensive for your car, it's a good time to bring your ride to a pro for some work. 

"The end of daylight saving time means that winter weather is on the way, which can be rough on your car," says AAA's director of Automotive Engineering, Greg Brannon. "This is a good time to have vehicle systems checked and perform important maintenance to ensure your car is in peak condition." 

It's also important to note that daylight saving time means it's going to be darker relatively early in the day, so you'll need to put some of your car's features to use more frequently than before. 

What do I need to check? 
If you've scheduled an appointment at the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction, then you're on the right track. The team of professionals there can look over your vehicle and address any issues you may have. However, it can't hurt to have a clear idea of what the most pressing matters may be – especially if daylight saving time is imminent. 

AAA suggested looking into areas such as windshield wipers and lights. These are two aspects of your car that you'll need as it begins getting darker earlier in the day. Additionally, make sure your tires are getting some attention. This could be the year you need to switch to snow tires, or your wheels may just need an upgrade due to poor tread. Either way, tracking the wear and tear on tires is essential during the winter months. 

Other areas that may require updating include the battery and engine, according to AAA. Both of these aspects of a car can have small problems that are aggravated by cold weather, causing more expensive and frustrating breakdowns later on. 

Putting a child behind the wheel of a car for the first time can be an emotional experience for any parent. Often lost in this haze of tears and anxiety, however, is an opportunity to educate these young drivers regarding all of the rules of the road they'll need. It's not enough to pass this responsibility off to driver's ed instructors – parents must do their part as well. 

Young drivers need practice
The AAA Foundation recently released a report in conjunction with National Teen Driver Safety Week. In its study, AAA found that experience garnered in the driver's seat matters more than other factors, such as age, when it comes to safety. 

According to the organization, drivers who got their licenses at an older age were less likely to be involved in an accident in the first five months of their driving career. However, the data for teens was relatively flat – in fact, people who began driving at age 18 instead of 16 were more likely to be involved in a crash. 

"Turning 18 does not instantly make someone a safer driver," said Peter Kissinger, president and CEO of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. "This new research clearly demonstrates how important experience is to safe driving and suggests that graduated driver licensing laws may be beneficial for people that begin driving at an older age."

New Jersey laws help teens
Luckily for parents in New Jersey, the state has a plan in place for getting teens acclimated to life on the road. As one of the only states to have this program in place, New Jersey reaps the benefits of more informed, safer drivers. Still, parents of drivers at any age can pass on knowledge to their children to ensure that they're ready for the road. 

Local laws put young drivers in a position to succeed, but to remain safe they need the right equipment. That's where NJ State Auto Auction comes into play. Our lot offers hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans, any one of which could be ideal for a first-time driver. As an added bonus, we even have an in-house financing team on site. These experts are ready and willing to help you find the best deal possible, enabling you to find a high-quality car for your teen at an affordable price. 

It is common knowledge that young people are at risk behind the wheel simply because of their inexperience. To make up for this, parents often lay down rules designed to make driving safer – but there are some loopholes they should be aware of.

Young drivers are at risk
In a survey conducted by the National Safety Council, the majority of parents reported that they don't let teens drive with friends in the car or operate a vehicle after 10 p.m. Despite the fact that 57 percent of parents forbid young people from driving with friends, 60 percent allow these drivers to shuttle around siblings – an act that is just as dangerous. Similarly, driving when it is dark places the same challenges on teens regardless of the clock. 

"The most dangerous period for a new driver is during the first year or first thousand miles, but only 54 percent of teens get their license before their 18th birthday," said Deborah A.P. Hersman, president of the National Safety Council. "The risk factors remain the same whether you are 16 or 19, so we are thrilled to see parents support extending the most effective interventions to our most inexperienced drivers." 

Passing on information
According to the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility, 65 percent of teens say they sometimes or usually find themselves in situations they are unprepared for when driving. About two-thirds were unsure of how to maneuver through complex driving scenarios, while 60 percent didn't know how to react when a speeding car came up from behind them. Additionally, 35 percent were confused when an emergency vehicle approached them at a red light. 

While some of these situations may seem basic to experienced motorists, it takes time for young people to reach that knowledge level. Attempting to convey this information early with formal driving lessons or an open line of communication could allow teens to ask more questions and therefore receive more answers early on in their driving careers. 

Set teens up for success
One of the best ways to ensure that a teen is being safe on the road is to put him or her in a safe vehicle. If you're looking for a car that is tough enough to protect a young driver, head to New Jersey State Auto Auction to check out the selection. The lot boasts hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans, and many of the options have excellent safety features that can be huge advantages in an emergency.