If you’re looking for the right car insurance plan in the Chicagoland area, there’s a lot to consider. The state requires that you have minimum coverage, but you might need more than minimum to fully meet your needs and lifestyle. Balancing cost with the protection you actually need isn’t always easy. Here’s how to figure out what coverage makes sense for you.

Illinois Car Insurance Requirements and Local Driving Risks

Illinois drivers are legally required to have liability insurance and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Liability insurance covers the other party’s bills if you cause an accident, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you if you’re insured by a driver with no insurance or limited insurance.

Depending on your vehicle and how often you’re on the road, you may or may not choose optional types of auto insurance, including collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and personal injury protection.

Living near or in Chicago means you have to consider many local factors, too. Winter weather and icy road conditions can be dangerous for your car, especially if you park on the street rather than in a garage. Big cities like Chicago tend to have more uninsured drivers, fender benders, and theft. Also, if you have to commute long distances to work, you’re more often at risk for getting into accidents. All these local factors can play a role in how much protection you might want.

Choosing the Right Coverage for Your Driving Habits

The right coverage depends on how often you drive, what you drive, and how much protection you want. Ask yourself questions like these to decide what kind of policy you need.

• How often do you drive?
• Is your car new or older?
• Do you commute daily?
• Do you want lower monthly payments or more protection?

The goal is to match your coverage to your real driving habits and your budget. If you’re a regular commuter, you’ll want more coverage than the minimum, but if you don’t drive often, you may be able to get away with a more basic plan. Similarly, you should look into full coverage, which includes collision and comprehensive insurance, if you have a new car so that you can protect your new asset. If your car is old, though, liability insurance could be enough.

Finding Coverage That Fits Your Budget

Many personal factors impact the prices you’ll get for car insurance, including your age, location, vehicle type, and driving history. That’s why insurance quotes can vary so much. It can be tempting to choose the cheapest plan, but minimum coverage doesn’t always protect you if something goes wrong. Paying a little more each month for better protection can save you from large out-of-pocket costs later.

At the same time, not everyone needs the most expensive plan. What’s important is finding coverage that fits your budget and your driving habits. You can always review your plan later and adjust your coverage if your situation changes.

It’s always smart to compare quotes from different insurance agencies and see who’s giving you the best deal. Working with a local agent can make this process easier and help you understand your options.

Choosing a Local Insurance Company You Can Trust

If you’re looking for auto insurance that matches your needs and budget, working with a local insurance company can make the process much easier.Their agents understand the challenges of driving in your city.

If you prefer to make financial decisions in person, an agency with a brick-and-mortar presence can make a huge difference in your experience. You can schedule an appointment and ask any clarifying questions you have in a face-to-face conversation. Or if you’re just in the neighborhood, you can easily stop in to talk to someone and get the information you need to help make your auto insurance decision.

With 26 locations in the Chicagoland area, Amigo Insurance is a great option for drivers who want quick quotes and local support. Other than in-person help, drivers can also get online quotes and phone support, so you can get help in the way that works best for you.

How Amigo Insurance Can Help Chicago Drivers

Choosing car insurance is a big decision, and you want real people helping you choose your plan. Amigo’s bilingual team can answer your questions in either English or Spanish and help you understand your coverage options.

You can get a quote online, call by phone, or stop by a nearby location to speak with someone in person. Amigo Insurance makes it easy to find coverage that fits your needs and budget. Call us today at 773-847-9000 or get a free quote online in just a few minutes.

Running a business comes with risks, but the right protection can keep them at bay. At Amigo Insurance, we help business owners find affordable, reliable commercial insurance coverage that protects their employees, operations, and financial future.

Whether you manage contractors, operate a small local business, or run a growing company with multiple assets, our experienced agents work with multiple carriers to help you compare options and choose the right coverage that fits your budget and needs. Our mission is simple: make business insurance more accessible and easier to find so you can focus on running your company as effectively as possible.

Why Businesses Need Commercial Insurance

Unexpected events can happen in the blink of an eye. From property damage, accidents, lawsuits, or employee injuries, commercial insurance helps shield your business from financial losses that could otherwise threaten your livelihood.

With the right policy, business insurance can help cover:

• Damage to business property or equipment
• Costs related to legal defense or settlements
• Third-party injuries or property damage claims
• Vehicle accidents involving company vehicles
• Workplace injuries or employee medical expenses

Having proper coverage isn’t just smart risk management. In many business sectors, it’s also a requirement to secure leases, sign contracts, or obtain certain permits.

Different Commercial Insurance Coverage Options

At Amigo Insurance, we help businesses explore a range of coverage options and types to they can build protection that fits their specific risks and operations.

General Liability Insurance

General liability insurance helps protect your business from claims involving bodily injury, advertising injury, or any property damage. This coverage is essential for contractors, retailers, service businesses, and many other industries.

Commercial Auto Insurance

If your business uses vehicles for transportation, deliveries, or service calls, commercial auto coverage can help protect against injuries, accidents, and property damage involving company vehicles.

Property & Equipment Coverage

Business property insurance can help protect inventory, tools, buildings, and equipment from risks such as theft, fire, or certain natural events, helping you recover after a loss.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Workers’ compensation insurance helps cover medical costs and lost wages if employees suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. In many states, this coverage is required when new employees are hired.

Flexible Coverage with Competitive Rates

Amigo Insurance works with multiple insurance carriers to help clients compare pricing and policy options. This allows business owners to explore competitive rates while maintaining dependable coverage.

We know that every business runs differently and has different coverage needs. That’s why our agents take the needed time to fully understand your operations, location, and risk profile before suggesting coverage options. Whether you need comprehensive options or basic protection, we help simplify the process and explain your choices clearly.

Who We Serve

Our commercial insurance solutions support a wide range of businesses, including:

• Retail stores and service providers
• Restaurants and hospitality businesses
• Contractors and construction professionals
• Independent professionals and small business owners
• Delivery services and transportation companies

Get a Commercial Insurance Quote Today

Protecting your business should’t be complicated. With Amigo insurance, you can request a commercial insurance quote by calling us at (773) 847-9000, contacting us online, or visiting a location near you. Our team is ready to assist you in comparing your options and finding a policy that supports your business goals.

Planning to travel in your own vehicle within Mexico? It is one of the busiest borders on earth, and there’s a lot to think about. Just be sure to get the necessary auto insurance before leaving, with time to spare.

With so many other exciting details to think about – where to stay, what sites to see – this mundane one could get brushed under the rug. Educate yourself on the reasons you need travel insurance below.

4 Reasons It’s Necessary to Have Auto Coverage When in Mexico

Drivers entering Mexico from the U.S. need to consider carrying additional insurance for a number of reasons.

1. U.S. auto insurance doesn’t apply in Mexico.

American policies generally stop their coverage at the border, and Mexico legally requires liability insurance issued by a Mexican insurer to drive there. This includes third-party liability for bodily injury and property damage.

2. Mexico requires valid Mexican auto insurance.

Some coverage needs vary depending on the trip, but most drivers will want to have liability, collision, theft, medical payments, and legal assistance. Requirements may also depend on the part of Mexico you’re visiting and whether you’re financing or leasing your vehicle.

3. Without it your costs become out-of-pocket.

Without proper Mexican coverage, you could be personally obligated to pay for a whole range of expenses, including vehicle repairs, property damage or medical bills if there’s an accident, and legal fees related to that accident.

4. You need protection for your own vehicle and passengers.

The necessary coverage, such as collision, theft, roadside assistance, and medical expenses, can be acquired directly through Amigo Insurance, which offers short-term and long-term Mexican auto insurance policies tailored for U.S. travelers.

Learn about the different types of auto insurance for driving in Mexico.

How to Know You Have Proper Coverage for Your Driving Trip

Now that you’ve decided to get insurance, make sure it’s the proper coverage for your trip. There may be options within plans that don’t apply to your situation, and why waste money on something you don’t need? On the other hand, Mexico has its own set of laws and it’s important that road trippers know about them before entering the country.

Here are a few factors to steer you toward the proper auto coverage:

Minimum Required Coverage

At minimum, be sure to carry liability insurance that meets financial responsibility standards in Mexico for the days that you will be there. Minimum amounts are often referenced for bodily injury/death, as well as for property damage, but you should confirm the current required limits before your trip, as rules can change.

Optional, Recommended Coverage Types

Find out what might benefit you and your family beyond basic liability coverage. Some items to consider adding:

• Collision & comprehensive for your vehicle
• Theft coverage
• Medical payments
• Legal assistance & bail coverage

Together, these give travelers broader protection and more peace of mind.

How to Buy Auto Insurance for Mexico

The easiest way to purchase temporary coverage is by calling Amigo Insurance at 773-300-4915. An agent will ask you pertinent questions to understand your situation and walk you through your options to ensure you’re choosing wisely.

Documents to Carry

Be prepared to show the proper documentation should anyone request it – printed as well as digital versions if possible. Items that may come in handy:

• Proof of Mexican insurance
• Your U.S. driver’s license
• Vehicle registration
• Entry permits if necessary

Plan Ahead: For Peace of Mind, Call AMIGO Insurance

Talk to an Amigo Insurance agent to purchase travel insurance before your trip. Generally, Mexican auto insurance can be bought just for the specific days travelers need it.

Visit Amigo in person or call 773-300-4915 for a free quote today!

Ever been to a car club? They’re not just for driving but for discussing your favorite models with like-minded folks. That is how much drivers of everything from BMWs and Chevys to vintage rides and LS engines love their vehicles.

If you’re looking for holiday shopping ideas for the auto enthusiast in your life, make it easy on yourself. Find something that speaks to that enthusiasm. We’ve got a few ideas:

1. Driving Gloves

Driving gloves help you keep your grip on the wheel during tight turns while also keeping your hands warm in colder months. If you drive a lot, they also keep the sun from drying out and discoloring your skin.

2. Swag from Their Favorite Car Brand

There are also branded caps and driving gloves if your friend is a die-hard fan (or a bit of a show off). Poke around online to find out what else is available that carries your loved one’s logo of choice.

3. Car Lovers Apparel

If you’ve never looked into apparel for car lovers, you might be surprised what you’ll find. There are T-shirts made for every type of personality and aesthetic, both for women and men. That even extends to kids Ts and baby onesies. You can find:

• Hoodies
• Polo shirts
• “Motorsport” shirts
• Cargo pants
• Swim shorts
• Leggings

The list goes on.

4. Tire Repair Kit

Find out if the driver already has a tire repair kit. Some cars come with them, but parts can go missing. A new one should include:

• Sealant that coats the inner lining to seal small punctures from within
• An air compressor that is used to inflate a tire that is flat or low on air so the vehicle can be driven to a nearby repair shop

Other elements may be useful, depending on the type of vehicle, so be sure the kit matches what they have.

5. Safety Kit

Not to be confused with a tire repair kit, the purpose of a safety kit is to keep the driver and passengers safe. It may include a first aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight or tools. You could even assemble your own kit based on your familiarity with the recipient.

6. Snow Chains or Snow Tires

Where does this driving fan live? If they’re hitting the snowy hills of Northern Wisconsin, they might benefit from snow chains or snow tires that prevent slips and slides on the road.

Related read: Find out about ways to protect your vehicle this winter.

7. Auto Maintenance or Auto Technology Class

Some folks love to learn, whether it’s out of a sense of curiosity or because they want to do their own repairs. Find out what floats their boat, and gift them a class to help them hone their expertise.

Your local city college or trade school may offer an evening program, or there might be a low-cost auto repair workshop near you on:

• Repairing a flat
• Performing your own inspection
• Changing your oil
• Changing your disk brakes
• Checking and changing auto fluids

8. Portable EV Charger

A handy little EV charger may be the perfect idea for the environmentalist in your life. They start at around $130 and are available at several big box stores. Some include a battery, while others consist of cables or adapters.

Before getting it, find out which one is appropriate for their car and driving situation, as well as whether they already have one stored in their trunk.

9. Auto Insurance for the Family Member Who Needs It

Some drivers struggle to pay for car insurance. Maybe they just need SR-22 insurance temporarily. Helping them out could be a way to encourage a family member to stay safe on the road, not to mention follow legal requirements to carry proper insurance.

Talk to an agent at Amigo Insurance to find out what a logical, inexpensive choice would cost. You can send us your insurance-related questions online.

Talk to an Agent at Amigo About What Renters Insurance Offers

Want to know about the best auto insurance in your specific area? Visit an Amigo Insurance location near you. Or, call 773-300-4915 to receive a FREE quote from Amigo at any time!

Are you moving into your first apartment – or second, or third? Relocating to a new space is a big step. You probably can’t wait to settle in.

But while figuring out where the couch should go, there’s one more task to add to your list: getting renters insurance.

Who Benefits from Renters Insurance Coverage?

Has there ever been a fire in your town that forced people to move? How about a break-in where a couple’s stuff goes missing? Even with something as common as water damage due to heavy rainfalls, you’re on your own unless you’ve got this type of insurance coverage.

Many different groups of people can benefit quite a bit from renters insurance:

• First-time renters moving into apartments or shared spaces
• Anyone with furniture, electronics, or other stuff they’d need to replace
• Pet owners who could be held responsible for damage or bites
• Renters in big cities or high-crime areas
• People who can’t afford to replace all their belongings at once

The Biggest Renters Insurance Mistake People Make

Even people with all the right auto coverage tend to skip renters insurance, mistakenly thinking the landlord’s insurance will cover their stuff. But in most cases, it won’t. A landlord’s plan usually covers the building – not your laptop, bed, sneakers or air fryer. Worse, without renters insurance, it would take several years at least for most renters to replace the necessities of living if their space was destroyed.

Unlike pricier types of coverage, renters Insurance is one that won’t break the bank for most people. The average monthly cost is just $12, amounting to less than $150 for the whole year, per recent data on NerdWallet.

Renters Insurance Covers Medical & Legal Costs, Too

It’s not just about protecting your physical valuables and necessities of living. Renters insurance also helps if a friend or worker gets hurt at your place. It protects you legally if your dog (yes, even the friendly one) nips an angry neighbor. It can even cover hotel costs if something like a fire or flood forces you out temporarily.

Renters insurance typically includes a wide range of necessary protection:

1. Belongings protection: Pays to replace essential items like clothes, electronics and furniture if they are stolen or damaged by things like fire. This kicks in after you pay your deductible.
2. Liability coverage: Helps if you’re legally responsible for injuries or damage to someone else’s property in your apartment. This could apply if a visitor gets hurt in your apartment or your pet causes someone harm.
3. Medical bills for guests: Covers medical costs if an individual gets injured in your home, even if it’s not your fault.
4. Temporary living costs: Pays for hotel stays, meals and other extra expenses if you can’t stay in your home due to a covered event like a fire.

Even if your plan is slightly more than that twelve-dollar monthly figure, it’s still significantly less than the cost of replacing a decent sofa, a high-quality laptop, or a month of hotel bills. Not having to stress about those financial considerations would bring peace of mind when you need it the most.

Check out our article on ways to figure out how much of this type of insurance you may need.

Why Would You Not Need Renters Insurance?

For a minority of renters, having this type of insurance may not be necessary. Some folks simply have few personal belongings, making it not worth the monthly payments. If you’re staying in a short-term, furnished rental, living with your parents, or someone else there has a policy with similar coverage, you can probably skip it.

Just be sure you’ve thought through the potential consequences of not getting it in case your theory is tested by an unexpected event.

Talk to an Agent at Amigo About What Renters Insurance Offers

Even if you could easily replace everything you own tomorrow, it’s worth finding out what renters insurance could do for you in an emergency. No one expects a break-in or catastrophic event that damages their apartment, but these things happen every day in all types of neighborhoods.

Be sure you and your family are safe, with the proper coverage for belongings, medical bills, and temporary living costs just in case you need it.

Find your local Amigo Insurance location and stop by to talk – or call 773-300-4915 for a FREE quote from Amigo today!

The Midwest is full of ways to take in the fall colors. In October, there are still many produce stops with goods on sale, not to mention seasonal events around every corner. Sometimes you have to get out of your town or city to enjoy them. As long as your vehicle is road trip ready, take advantage of the opportunities before it’s too cold to leave home.

Some sites are scary; some are just plain gorgeous. Here are our top three picks:

1. Goebbert’s Farm, Illinois (near Chicago suburbs)

One of Illinois’ most popular destinations in October, Goebbert’s Farm always has a lot going on in autumn. Located near South Barrington in Pingree Grove off of I-90 West, they are famous for their kid-friendly haunted house (no live people and no gore). The fall festivities start in late September with the farm’s famous Oktoberfest celebration.

However if it’s Halloween-themed color you’re after, head to the farm’s famed pumpkin patch. Your road trip – even if it’s a short one from the nearest city – can have an abundance of harvest goods at the end. Apples, squashes, flowers and other goods will be on view and on sale.

2. M‑22 Highway, Michigan

There are many ways to take in the bursts of color of autumn leaves. The drive along M-22 – going through Manistee, around Leelanau Peninsula, and eventually to Traverse City – is spectacular in late October. If you travel far enough, you can get sweeping vistas of Lake Michigan, stop for a stroll on the sand dunes, or visit one of the state’s small charming towns.

Recommended seasonal activities and sites Near M‑22 and Traverse City, MI:

Jacob’s Farm

• Has a huge corn maze, apple picking, pumpkin patch, and a farm store
• Great for families or a laid-back fall date
• Just minutes off M‑22

Gallagher’s Farm Market & Bakery

• Pumpkins, cider, donuts, fresh produce, and photo ops
• Known for apple cider slushies, pumpkin donuts, and caramel apples
• Great farmstand stop on your road trip

This route is one of the best ways there is to experience the Lake Michigan shoreline. But this time of year, it’s also an iconic fall color drive with lake views, vineyards and more.

3. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Heading from Chicago to the south as well as from Northern Wisconsin, this other, much smaller lake makes an enjoyable getaway this time of year. Go for the crisp air, lakeside views, walking trails, and autumn ambiance. And the leaves bursting with color, of course.

You might end up staying for the spookiness. The area is known for something else in late October: its many ghost walks. The area has many seasonal, Halloween-specific events, including Oktoberfest celebrations and numerous ghost tours that explore local legends.

Call AMIGO Insurance Before Hitting the Road

Want to get answers to all your questions about auto insurance? The team at Amigo Insurance are experts and can tell you what you need for your situation. Don’t wait until after you need it. It’s always a good idea to review your coverage before heading out on any road trips.

Stop by one of our locations to talk to an agent in person, or call Amigo at 773-847-9000 and we will provide a free quote on the best auto insurance we can find for you.

If you’ve ever gotten a DUI or been convicted of driving without auto insurance, you could be required to carry something called an SR-22 (or Financial Responsibility R-22 Insurance). It’s not in fact insurance, but a requirement tacked on to your insurance. It helps states like Illinois keep tabs of problem drivers based on their history of infractions.

What Is an SR-22?

An SR-22 is essentially a document that shows that you meet the minimum auto insurance requirements in your state. It’s good to know about this rule and how to acquire one if it has been mandated by a court or the DMV notifies you that you need one. The last thing you want is one more driving-related problem – like yet another fine because you weren’t properly insured.

Who Needs to Carry SR-22 in Illinois?

This type of insurance is required for specific groups of “problem” drivers. Different states may have their own laws, so it’s important to find out what the requirements are in your area, as well as in your individual situation.

According to the Illinois secretary of state, the SR-22 is intended for Illinoisans who have experienced:

• A safety responsibility suspension
• An unsatisfied judgment suspension
• The revocation of their driver’s license
• A mandatory insurance supervision
• At least three traffic-related convictions

Once you’ve gotten the ok to drive and you have car insurance that includes an SR-22, get ready to hit the road again using these helpful tips to stay comfortable.

Why Are Some Drivers Required to Have SR-22?

The rate of deaths caused by crashes has been on the decline in recent years. Still, estimates show there were nearly 40,000 fatalities in 2024 due to car accidents in the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and no one wants to be on either end of that equation.

Having an SR-22 doesn’t mean you’re a bad driver, although if you struggle with safety behind the wheel, another form of transportation might be a better option than driving. It is simply a temporary remedy that enables states to track drivers who have had insurance-related or driving-related issues, particularly if they are repeat offenders.

What Is a Certificate of Responsibility?

If you obtain an SR-22, make sure it comes with a Certificate of Responsibility. This shows it is legit and you have gone through the proper procedures in getting one.

Does SR-22 Provide Extra Auto Insurance Coverage?

No, the SR-22 does not provide extra coverage, as it is not a form of insurance. It confirms that an individual meets the minimal liability insurance requirements, but it does not provide any insurance itself.

Does Getting SR-22 Cost Anything?

While you’re not buying insurance, there may be a small processing fee for acquiring the SR-22. Ask an Amigo insurance agent about any fees you may need to pay. This is also an opportunity to find out if your premiums will go up. If you’re concerned about rate hikes, it may be worth shopping around for more affordable options.

Check out these recommendations for lowering the cost of insurance.

For How Long Do You Need SR-22?

Once an SR-22 has been mandated, states like Illinois usually require drivers to maintain it for three years. However, laws may vary. If a court or department of motor vehicles (DMV) has ordered you to carry SR-22, find out about any requirements such as the length of time you need to carry it.

Add SR-22 to Your Plan Through AMIGO Insurance

Folks who need SR-22 insurance should reach out to an insurer that is authorized to include it in their plans. That’s what makes Amigo Insurance so convenient. We will inform you about different companies that offer it and help you get the most affordable option.

Call or stop by any of our many locations to find out if you need an SR-22 and ask about getting the insurance you need.

Are you seeking the best auto insurance plan for your situation? Look no further than Amigo Insurance. With 26 convenient locations available throughout the Chicagoland area, you can find one close to you and get all of your questions answered in person. That includes numerous suburban locations, too, from Aurora to Elgin to Palatine, and elsewhere.

Easy Access to Auto Insurance

Our team makes it easy! Even if you’re covered but want to explore better options, we are here for you. Here’s all you need to do.

Request a quote: Start by entering your zip code online. You will be asked to enter some details like your address and whether you are currently insured.
Examine your options: We help Chicagoans by narrowing down the options. There are different levels of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, along with other coverage possibilities.
Select the best one: Once you’ve found the right policy, you’re ready to make a selection.

Within minutes, you can be ready to hit the road. If you’re not sure what kind to get, you can speak with an online agent in English or Spanish who is trained to answer your questions. For in-person, find the closest Amigo Insurance location.

What Coverage to Include

Insurance rates vary. As you review your options, you will need to make some decisions. It’s best to be as informed as possible before making any decisions. There are many possible forms of coverage. Basic auto insurance typically includes:

Liability Coverage: This protects you by covering costs resulting from car repairs or injuries to others if you are at fault in an accident.
Medical Expenses: There is coverage for medical expenses and sometimes wages lost due to an accident, no matter who was at fault.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist: This is also often a part of basic plans.

Consider Affordability

It’s important to select the policy that matches your needs as well as your budget. Whether online, over the phone, or in person, proper vehicle insurance is within reach. Here’s what to know:

Inquire about discounts: Illinois drivers have access to potential discounts. They may be available for students, seniors, multiple-car families, or based on your driving record.
Consider other factors: What’s in your budget? Take into account your deductible, what premium you can afford each month, and what happens if you are in an accident.
Compare rates: Ask for multiple quotes so you can make a more informed comparison.

Why Choose Amigo?

For years, Amigo Insurance has been helping drivers throughout many states as well as Mexico select excellent auto insurance. Because we have so many storefronts in the greater Chicagoland area, you are never on your own. Why else should you choose us?

Flexibility: Insurance can be altered if your situation changes. If you need to adjust coverage, change an address, or add someone to your policy, just let us know.
Customer service: Selecting a plan can be hard at first. We will patiently answer your questions until you’re sure what you need.
Widely recognized name: Work with us and you’ll find out why our presence is trusted and growing nationally.

Chicago Drivers: Get Your FREE Quote Today!

Local residents don’t just come to us for the free quotes on affordable auto insurance, although that’s a big part of it. What they appreciate the most is the patience of our customer service reps. Auto insurance plans can be complex, and it helps to have a human being walk you through all the information so you’re ready to choose a plan.

Call Amigo for a FREE QUOTE, and find out why drivers throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs come to us for auto insurance.

Itching to pack a bag and hit the road? With heat waves already upon drivers from Texas to Indiana, it’s particularly vital to do what you can to keep your car engine at reasonable temperatures so it doesn’t overheat this summer.

Taking the steps below will help extend the life of your vehicle and offer extra protection when you’re away from home.

1. Check Your Coolant Levels

Why: Dangerously low coolant is less effective at transferring heat away from the engine.

This important reminder made it into our recent blog about things to keep in your car in summer. What we didn’t mention is how easy it is to check it. As long as you can locate the coolant reservoir, or tank, you’ll be able to size up the situation and determine if more is needed.

2. Inspect Your Vehicle’s Radiator and Hoses

Why: Cracks or leaks in this area can prevent the proper flow of coolant, as well.

You might want a mechanic for this one. Have these parts inspected while the engine is still a little warm, which can make it easier to detect problem areas. If you’ve had a recent oil change, you may be in luck. It is often a standard part of that process.

Periodically flushing the radiator is another way to avoid buildup that can lead to overheating. Your auto manual should have more on how often this should take place.

3. Does Your Car’s Thermostat Work Properly?

Why: A faulty thermostat can either hinder the circulation of coolant – overheating the engine – or give you an inaccurate reading.

Your car’s coolant system is a complex creature. Various issues may cause a thermostat to stop working properly, whether due to wear and tear over time, corrosion, or an electrical failure somewhere if it operates digitally. A malfunctioning thermostat might also point to coolant problems described earlier.

4. Monitor the Temperature Gauge for Signs of Trouble

Why: Early signs of overheating give you time to react before damage occurs.

Just like with the thermostat, this is yet another piece of the puzzle when it comes to detecting overheating problems in the engine. No matter the cause, get to the root of the problem if you suspect your readings aren’t reliable.

5. Use Sunshades and Park in Shade or Air Conditioned Garages

Why: Keeps everything cooler, reducing interior damage and strain on the cooling system.

It’s easy to go for the closest spot and leave your poor car baking in the sun. There’s a better solution. Park where your vehicle will remain shaded for more time, keeping in mind the direction of shadows as they move. Air conditioning is your best bet on especially hot days.

Dash and windshield shades can also help keep the interior at more bearable temperatures.

6. Chill Out: Avoid Aggressive Driving

Why: Unnecessary strain on the engine raises its temperature.

Not that there is ever a good time to drive aggressively, but remember to be cool in hot weather. This is not the time for driving behavior that may heat up the engine even more than it already is.

7. Keep the AC Condenser Clean

Why: An obstructed condenser reduces airflow and loses its efficiency.

When you go in for your next inspection, ask about the condition of your AC condenser so that you and your passengers stay cool on all your summer drives.

8. Inspect Your Auto Coverage Through AMIGO Insurance

Having good auto insurance is key in all seasons. An agent at Amigo Insurance will walk you through your insurance options and make sure you understand the finer details.

Why pay more than you have to? Call Amigo and get a FREE QUOTE today!

Lots of things make road trips more fun. Portable games, snacks and good company come to mind. Then there are those necessities that should not be overlooked – especially in summer. While some supplies will depend on where you’re headed, five must-haves can be a lifesaver on the road.

1. Safe, Non-Plastic Water Bottles

With so many options on the market, it’s much easier to avoid cheap, plastic water containers. Plastic water bottles left in the heat have been shown to leach chemicals into the water. The hotter it is, the worse the problem gets.

Stainless steel bottles and non-toxic containers don’t pose the same risks. What’s important is that you trust the product to withstand the temperatures wherever you are headed. Find the variety that you prefer, like a thermos that will keep your water cool for longer and can be refilled on the road.

2. Portable Phone Charger (Power Bank)

Many of us take for granted how easy it is to recharge our phones – until they stop working in a far-off rural area with no way to recharge. If your car breaks down or you get lost in an area without cell service, you will be relieved to have a fully charged phone to call for help as well as to help you navigate your way out.

Consider choosing a high-capacity (10,000mAh or more) model that can handle extreme temperatures and charge a smartphone multiple times. As with other plastic items, it should be stored out of direct sunlight – like in the glove compartment or center console – to prevent overheating or battery damage.

3. Coolant/Antifreeze, Funnel and Extra Water

Savvy travelers often keep a jug of water in the trunk, as well. If the radiator overheats, dousing it with water may cool it down. However, it helps to be familiar with this issue to address it properly. If you are low on coolant (a.k.a. antifreeze), water won’t fix the problem. Extra coolant and a funnel will help you replenish it and protect your engine from damage.

Be sure any fluids you take on the road are suitable for your vehicle. A trusted mechanic can let you know what else to bring before heading out for long periods in high temperatures.

4. Sun Protection Kit (Hat, Sunscreen, and Sunglasses)

It’s easy to forget about the need for sun protection from inside a car. But UV exposure can still be a risk on long drives, especially through windows that don’t block all UV rays. Without sunblock and a comfortable pair of shades, skin damage and eye strain can build up after hours of driving.

Don’t forget wide-brimmed hats and your favorite SPF lip balm! As for sun block, consider more than one type: such as broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for drives, and SPF 50 or higher for hikes and pit stops. Keeping these items in a small pouch in a shaded part of the car will keep them cooler, as well.

5. Spare Tire & Tool Kit or Tire Repair Kit

A flat tire is one of the most common roadside issues during drives on overheated pavement. No one wants to be left stranded in an unfamiliar area, and not every car comes with a spare tire anymore.

If you know how to change a tire, maybe the spare and toolset are all you need. A repair kit lets you patch and re-inflate the tire enough to reach a service station. Having both options isn’t a bad idea, as long as someone in the vehicle knows how to use them. Look for a kit that includes plug tools and tire sealant or a compressor with built-in sealant. Find out if you’ll need a power source, like your 12V car outlet, and make sure your spare is still inflated.

Comprehensive Auto Coverage from AMIGO Insurance

Before you leave, be sure you have comprehensive auto insurance that covers all the bases. Talk to an agent at Amigo about your situation so you get the most appropriate and economical package.

Get your FREE QUOTE from Amigo Insurance today!