Preparing Your Vehicle for a Road Trip

The Spring Break season is upon us, and before you know it, it will be time to pack up the car and get a little R&R at your vacation of choice. Here at Bledsoe’s Towing and Automotive, we love nothing more than a good road trip, but we also know how important it is to make sure your car is in good working order first. Before you and your friends or family hit the road, here are a few things you should do to keep your car in tip-top shape.

Get A Check-Up

Just like you keep yourself in good condition by a regular check-up with your doctor, your car needs the same thought and care. Bring your vehicle out to the best auto maintenance shop at the Lake of the Ozarks and we’ll give everything a look to make sure it’s ready for the road. Here are a few things we’ll be paying attention to:

Engine Oil

Your vehicle needs engine oil to not only run efficiently but to run at all. If the oil is low, you’ll find your trip could be stopped before it ever got started. We can check your oil, and if the levels are low we can top them off. If you haven’t had an oil change recently, now is a great time to get one. Many vehicles need to have their oil changed every 3,000 miles, but you can refer to your owners manual, or your local auto shop at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Transmission & Differential Fluids

Your vehicles have other fluids besides oil. The transmission and drive axle have their own lubricant supply that needs to be checked on before your big trip. You can refer to you owner’s manual for their suggested change intervals since it’s normally longer than the engine oil.

Hoses

Rubber hoses are known to last around ten years if they just sit on a shelf - but when they are in your car they can be exposed to temperatures of over 200 degrees. Those high temps cause the rubber to become hard. When they become hard they can crack and then the fluids don’t stay where they’re supposed to.

Belts

There are many belts in your vehicles from the serpentine belt that runs the water pump to the timing belt. These belts also tend to have a habit of breaking at the most inopportune time, like when you’re stuck in the 2-mile traffic back-up.

Engine Coolant

Many vehicles come with engine coolant that is designed to go 100,000 to 150,000 miles. If your car is less than four years old, you’ll want to make sure that the under-hood coolant reservoir is topped up.

Road Trips to Remember

There are so many fun memories made on a road trip, but the one memory we don't’ want you to make it being stranded on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck at the Lake of the Ozarks (though, if you need one, we provide a 24-hour towing service at the Lake of the Ozarks.) Prepare for your trip by having your vehicle looked at before you leave and save yourself some unfortunate downtime. Bring your car out to Bledsoe’s Towing and we’ll get you ready for the road trip of a lifetime!

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Warning Smells From Your Car

There can be many warning signs that your car is in need of repair, from the sounds of something clanking to the sight of something not working. One of the most obvious signs, though, is when your car smells. There can be many different smells your car may experience, so today we want to talk about the some of the bad ones so you can know exactly what to do if you find yourself in this situation.

Disclaimer: This is not a DIY post, we recommend if you notice anything wrong with your vehicle that you bring it to the best automotive center at the Lake of the Ozarks. If it isn't able to start, you can call the best tow company at the Lake of the Ozarks as well.

6 Warning Smells From Your Vehicle

1. Burnt Rubber

From slipping drive belts to misplaced loose hoses - this smell is something to be aware of. It could be something rubbing against rotating accessory drive pulleys. Sometimes it could even be a sign of an oil leak. If you notice this smell, it's important to get your vehicle to a service station and have them inspect.

2. Hot Oil

Do you notice the smell of hot oil coming from your vehicle? It could mean that oil is leaking onto the exhaust system. You can verify that there is a leak by looking for oil on the pavement or smoke coming from the engine of your car. If you notice this happening, turn off the engine before checking for a leak.

3. Gasoline

If you smell gasoline, it could be as simple as having some on your hands from when you filled up. It could also be a sign of a gas leak. One common place you'll experiences this is possibly a fuel injector line or the fuel tank. Take caution when you smell fuel. Any time you smell gasoline your car can be a possible fire hazard, so you should call someone immediately to come out and take a look.

4. Syrup

Have you ever smelled a sweet syrupy smell coming from your car? This could be a sin that your car is leaking engine coolant from a component related to the car's cooling system. If you notice this smell, do not open the radiator cap when it is hot.

5. Burning Carpet

This smell could be the sign of brake trouble. You'll want to have your brakes checked immediately, especially if you notice the smell during normal driving conditions. Brake trouble is a driving safety hazard, and you'll want to contact your automotive center in Camdenton, MO to have it checked out.

6. Rotten Eggs

This unmistakeable smell could mean the catalytic converter is not converting hydrogen sulfide in the exhaust to sulfur dioxide properly. A poorly running engine can cause the catalytic converter to become overloaded and fail because of a meltdown. It's important to keep your vehicle in good working condition.

Caring For Your Vehicle

At Bledsoe's Towing, we know how important it is to have your car working properly. Whether you need to run errands or rely on it to get you to work - a car maintenance issue can cause some serious setbacks. Trust the best mechanics at the Lake of the Ozarks to keep your car in great working condition - which will keep you out on the road longer.

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Maintenance Milestones For Your Vehicle

Just like your body needs good food, exercise, and a little tune up at the doctor every so often your car needs the same. When you invest quality parts and time into your vehicle, you can reap the rewards of your vehicle running smoothly and keeping you safe on the road. It's important to not neglect routine maintenance on your vehicle, not just for short-term advantages, but long term as well. Here at Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive, we know that vehicle maintenance can get away from you, so we have a timeline to help you remember important car maintenance to perform and when.

3 Months or 3,000 Miles

When your odometer turns over 3,000 more miles, or it's been three months since you've been to the best Lake of the Ozarks mechanic - it's time to take a pit stop. There are a few things that need to be inspected on your car, starting with the oil and filter. It's important to make sure this is done on a routine basis for the long-term health of your vehicle. You should also make sure all of the fluids are topped off, have the air filter inspected, check the tire pressure, have the belts and hoses inspected, and make sure the wiper blades are still in good working condition.

6 Months or 6,000 Miles

It's time to rotate your tires! At Bledsoe's, we not only have a great selection of tires at the Lake of the Ozarks, we can take care of rotating your tires as well. You should also have your brakes inspected at this point as well. It's imperative that your brakes continue to stay in good working order because they not only affect you but others on the road as well. Finally, make sure that your car is ready for the next season - whether it be summer or winter.

12 Months or 12,000 Miles

Align the suspension, rotate and balance tires, install new wiper blades, and install a new fuel filter. You should also have your fuel injector cleaned, and get a new cabin air filter. This is basic maintenance that needs to be performed once a year - and while you may not notice it, you will if it goes bad.

Every 30,000 Miles

Bring your vehicle in for a full vehicle inspection. This is important for your vehicle because we can catch some maintenance needs before they become a big deal or cause trouble for your vehicle. Next, you'll want to flush the transmission fluid, have the transmission filter services, flush the brake fluid, check the battery, clean the throttle body, and replace the spark plugs and distributor cap. Even if you don't know what any of these items do - they are still important and need to be done.

Every 60,000 Miles

Replace your timing belt. While not every vehicle has a timing belt (some have timing chains), it's still a vital maintenance need for your vehicle. In fact, it can be SO important, that if you don't have it done in time, you could need some very expensive maintenance done on your vehicle, and it could be in the shop for a long time. Don't skimp on the timing belt. If you don't know the status of your timing belt, come out to Bledsoe's Towing, we can take a look and let you know when you need to have it replaced. You should also have your power steering fluid flushed at this point.

Automotive Shop in Camdenton, MO

Along with finding a mechanic that you trust, you want to find one with a trusted reputation. Bledsoe's Towing has been the best auto mechanic shop at the Lake of the Ozarks for over fifty years, and this is just the beginning. We look forward to helping you keep your vehicle in good working order for years to come. Give us a call, or stop by the shop. We would be glad to assist you in caring for your vehicle.

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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About Your Lake of the Ozarks Auto Shop

Finding an automotive company you trust to work on your vehicle can be a huge process, especially if you are new to town. You want a company who can fix many different types of issues, large or small, as well as do preventative maintenance. All of this is what you can find at Bledsoe's Towing at Automotive. Our team of mechanics are trained and friendly - ready to help! Here are some things you may enjoy learning about Bledsoe's Towing, as well as some of our history!

About Bledsoe's Towing

Starting with the original grand opening of the Camden Shell Service station in 1964, Bledsoe's has been the center of activity and a long-standing community business. Folks of this small hometown lake community can tell you stories of spending their time after school working on their vehicles with the use of tools and the lifts at Bledsoe's. Their descriptions of fondly remembered activities are centered on this community hub and bring you to the belief that there are businesses that still truly care. Some residences will tell you stories of how Bledsoe's was there when they needed a tow in their time of need. Like the Cabin move below. Whatever the story, they all have described more than just a service station.

Please be sure and check out the photo gallery and tell us all about your fond memories. Just email us through our contact page.

Bledsoe's Timeline

• Original opening: Kenny Bledsoe and Charles Anderson, Founders in 1964

• In 1977, Jim Dulle and Kenny Bledsoe became partners in Super Muff Exhaust which shared the facilities at the present location.

• Around 1982, Kenny Bledsoe and Jim Dulle became partners in Bledsoe's and Super Muff.

• In 1990, Kenny Bledsoe sold his interest to his son John (Pug) Bledsoe. And now, Jim Dulle and Pug Bledsoe run the present day Bledsoe Automotive Service.

• Over the years, Bledsoe's has been affiliated with Shell and Conoco fuel companies but today they are an independent service station with strong roots in Camdenton, Missouri.

Services at Bledsoe's Towing & Automotive

• Complete automotive maintenance services

• Tires

• Tires balanced and rotated

• Oil changes

• Transmission fluid service

• Belts and hoses

• Brake rotors/drums and pads

• Front end alignments

• Fuel and air filters

• Muffler and exhaust systems

• Windshield replacement

• Towing/accident recovery

• Fuel Sales: Regular unleaded, premium unleaded, diesel, off-road diesel, kerosene

The Best Automotive

At Bledsoe's Towing, we are more than just your local automotive shop at the Lake of the Ozarks. We are your family. We have been at the Lake for over 50 years, and in that time we have built up great relationships with our new and loyal customers alike. From maintenance to 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks, we are here for you. Visit our social media sites and website to learn more about our company and how we can serve you!

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Protecting Your Car From Winter Wear & Tear

We're still just hovering at the beginning of winter - and so far we're seeing our fair share of winter weather for our area. While it's easy to get caught up in preparing for weather by filling our pantry, checking our pipes, and making sure we have enough blankets on hand - sometimes our vehicles get forgotten about. From protecting your paint to your tires and even the interior of your vehicle, here are a few ways you can protect your car even during the dead of winter.

Protecting Your Paint

With winter weather comes road salt - and this can be extremely hard on your car's finish. Your best bet to protect your the paint on your vehicle by putting a coating on it. If you aren't sure what type of coating would be best for your vehicle, there are many ways to find one that works not only with your vehicle but with your budget as well. We know it can be hard to wash your vehicle in the winter, but it's important to not let the salt sit on your vehicle for any longer than you have to.

Protecting Your Wheels

Did you know that there are actually products that protect your wheels the same way they can protect your vehicle's paint? Take some time to treat your tires and wheels with respect, as they are what keeps you getting around safe on the road in many types of weather. In cold weather, you want to keep the rubber soft and supple to keep it from cracking - but you also want to make sure they have plenty of air in them as well! If you find that the tread on your tires is getting too low, we keep a good stock of tires at the Lake of the Ozarks and can have them changed out for you.

Protecting Your Windshield Wipers

There are special additives that you can get for your windshield wiper fluid that will help keep your windshield clean and frost free! This is not only good for your windshield but also your wipers as well. Snow and ice can be hard on your wipers - so it's important to take care of them. You will also want to keep a good, quality ice scraper in your vehicle for those moments.

Protecting Your Garage

There are garage floor mats that you can get to protect your garage floor. These mats have a raised lip around the outside to keep water from spreading all around your garage and making it slippery and dangerous. It can also keep your concrete clean from oils leaks.

Keeping It Covered & Protect the Interior

If you have to keep your car outside during the winter, you may want to consider getting a cover to help protect the finish from getting too much winter weather. There are many covers on the market that are manageable enough to take on and off every day, while still protecting your vehicle.

Don't forget about the interior of your vehicle as well! Winter is just as hard on the inside of your car as it is on the outside, especially the floor mats. By keeping quality mats in your car, it can protect the flooring from salt, water, snow, mud, and dirt.

Keeping Your Car Running Longer at Bledsoe's Towing & Automotive

While you care for the outside of your vehicle - let US care for the inside! Cold temps can be just as hard on your engine as it is on your paint, and if you find that your car isn't running properly, or it makes strange sounds, bring it in! As the weather could get bad this weekend, don't forget to stay safe and be careful. Should you find yourself in a sticky situation, remember that Bledsoe's offers 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks and we want to be your first call for rescue.

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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New Year's Resolutions For Your Car

It's never too late to make resolutions, and when it involves your car it's always better late than never. Your vehicle is a finely tuned machine, and when it doesn't get tuned up on a regular basis it doesn't take long for it to be a hazard. Even something as simple as the air pressure being low in your tire can cause unforeseen issues. Here at Bledsoe's Towing, we want to help keep you on the road - safely and efficiently. Here are a few resolutions that you can make for 2017 to help keep your car in good working order.

Stay Up-To-Date on Oil Changes

Having fresh, clean oil in your vehicle is an important way you can keep it running for longer. Be sure to keep up on oil changes by finding ways to remember them. If you drive a lot and you hit the mile limit before the time limit, make a point to check your mileage on a specific day of the week when you'll be in your vehicle. If you only need your oil changed every 3 months, set an alarm on your phone to remind you when your next oil change should be.

Watch Your Tire Pressure

As the weather and temperatures change and fluctuate your tire pressure will be affected. When the air is warm it will cause the air inside your tires to expand and when the air is cold it will cause your tire pressure to contract. This explains why your tire pressure light will come on when it's cold outside, and then go off after you've driven for a little while and the tires warm up. Make it a goal this year to always keep on top of your tire pressure. This will help the life of your tires as well as your gas mileage.

Keep Up With Annual Maintenance

Does your vehicle need some minor maintenance to keep it in good condition? Make it a goal to get it taken care of early this year. If your vehicle needs any major maintenance, give us a call and get an appointment set up immediately. You don't want to drive your vehicle when it's in a dangerous condition.

Keep Your Car Clean

This may not affect the life of your engine, but it certainly affects the condition of your car. Your floor mats, seats, seat belts, dashboard and more can all be benefitted from regular cleaning. If you only take a soapy cloth and wipe things down and give it a quick vacuum you will notice nice results.

Change Out Your Tires

It's easy to let your tires go miles and miles without replacement, but in bad weather, you'll wish you hadn't. You can try the penny test (or quarter test) to make sure that there is still enough tread on your tires. If you put the penny in upside down and can see the top of Lincoln's head, it's time for new tires. At Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive, we have a great selection of tires at the Lake of the Ozarks and would be glad to get you back on the road.

Automotive at the Lake of the Ozarks

Are you looking for a trusted auto company at the Lake of the Ozarks where you can take your vehicle? Look no further! At Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive, we would love to help you keep your resolutions AND keep your vehicle on the road longer. Give us a call to get a quote - 573-346-7050.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Is it Time to Replace Your Timing Belt?

With the busyness of life, and often times lack of knowledge in regard to your vehicle, your timing belt can be forgotten. Unfortunately, the timing belt plays a bigger role in your vehicle than you may have realized, and if it fails, you could be stranded on the road or without a vehicle for a while. Here are a few important things to know about your timing belt, and how the best automotive center at the Lake of the Ozarks can help.

What is a Timing Belt?

A timing belt is a ribbed belt that can be found on the side of your engine. It's placed in such a way that it keeps the top half of your engine in sync with te bottom half. In a non-interference engine, it doesn't cause any issue when the timing belt breaks, but in interference engines, it's a whole different story.

What Does My Timing Belt Do?

If you have an interference engine, the valve's and piston's stroke take up the same space in the cylinder. The timing belt essentially keeps the pistons and the valves from smashing into each other. If the timing belt snaps, they run into each other. There are many things that can happen from bent valves to cylinder head or camshaft damage, maybe even piston and cylinder wall damage.

In a non-interference engine, the pistons and valves don't share the same space, and if the timing belt snaps there is no cylinder or valve damage. You can just add a new belt and the engine should typically be fine.

How Much Does it Cost to Change a Timing Belt?

It's not always as simple as just replacing the timing belt, because of this, the cost is not very straightforward until we can get under the hood and take a look. It is suggested to also replace the water pump, tensioner, and pulleys when you replace the timing belt, as well as any damage that could have occurred when the timing belt snapped.

Signs That My Timing Belt Needs to be Replaced

Occasionally, when the timing belt needs to be replaced, you'll hear a ticking sound from the engine. Sometimes you'll also notice that the engine misfires or doesn't even turn over at all. Sometimes you'll even notice oil leaking from the front of the engine. Unfortunately, in many cases, you don't realize the timing belt needs to be replaced until it's too late. You can check your vehicle's owner's manual to get a better idea of when the belt replaced. Many manufacturers say it should be replaced no later than 120,000 miles.

Vehicle Maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks

From easy maintenance like tire changes and windshield wiper replacements to more complicated maintenance like having to replace a timing belt at the Lake of the Ozarks - we can help. Count on your local automotive shop at the Lake of the Ozarks to care for your vehicle and get you back on the road - FAST!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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The Best Times to Travel During the Holiday Season

As you pack up your vehicle and head over the hills and through the woods, there are a few ways you can help keep your travel plans less stressful. While practicing safe driving habits is key, you can also plan your trip around the least traveled times! 91% of holiday travelers are making their trek by personal vehicle, making a predicted 103 million Americans on the road, so it only makes sense to try and travel the road less taken. At Bledsoe's Towing, we want to help you have a safe holiday weekend, travel and all! Here are a few tips on keeping your travel safe and finding the best times to make the drive.

Driving To Your Holiday Destination

Try to pick times that most travelers wouldn't choose. Early morning and night travel are obviously the first choices, but be aware that night driving also has risks. You can expect to find the roads a bit more congested late in the day and late in the week. Try to choose travel times that are earlier in the day, as midday and evening traffic is normally heavier.

Also, remember that Hanukkah starts at sundown on Saturday, so traffic may be even busier than anticipated with the additional holiday.

Coming Home

Monday, December 26th is expected to be extremely busy with holiday traffic, as people start to make their way back home so they can be at work on Tuesday. While it may not be ideal, Christmas day is generally less busy. Otherwise, you can choose times that are later in the day to make your trek.

Friday, December 30th is also anticipated to be busy with the New Year's traffic. Choosing travel days that are midweek is a great way to help avoid the traffic.

Driving Safety Tips

As you're out on the road, be sure to remember safe driving practices. If you'll be traveling in snowy or icy conditions, prepare for them appropriately and don't go too fast. No matter the conditions, make sure that you allow plenty of room between you and the car in front of you to avoid incidents.

Keep Your Vehicle In Tip-Top Condition

Before you take your car out on the road, bring it out to Bledsoe's Towing! We can check your headlights, tires, oil, and other fluids as well as other automotive services at the Lake of the Ozarks. Our goal is to keep you safe out on the road. However, if you do find yourself in a pickle over the weekend, we offer 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks and would love to come to the rescue.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Tips for Driving Safe in the Rain

The last few days have been on the dreary side of life, and with that, comes the chance for accidents and incidents due to the inclemate weather. Rain, fog, clouds, and now cooler weather all play a part in the driving conditions, and while we are the best tow company at the Lake of the Ozarks, we really don't want to see you in a position where you need us. Here are a few ways you can drive safely in rainy weather, and hopefully see less of us!

Did You Know

While you probably assumed driving in the rain was dangerous, did you know that it's more dangerous than driving in the snow? Research has shown that 46 percent of weather-related crashes happened during rainfall, but only 17 percent while it was snowing or sleeting. Of course, this is in part because drivers tend to stay home when the weather gets bad, but it does also show that drivers as a whole don't acknowledge the dangers of driving in the rain.

Rain Ready

The tread on your tires makes a huge difference in your ability to keep control of your vehicle. One way you can check is by grabbing a quarter (some say to use a penny, but some researchers say a quarter is more accurate). Insert the quarter in your tire and if Washington's head is always covered by the tire than you should have more than 4/32 of an inch of tread remaining. If the top of Washington's head is exposed, you need to get new tires. At Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive we have the best tires at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Tire pressure is also important. Check your pressure once a month, using a tire gauge. You also want to check your windshield wipers to make sure they are ready to function properly when you're out on the road. Finally, check your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals and make sure they are all in working order. 

Keep It Slow

In order to stay safe out on the road, be sure to keep a safe distance between you and the other drivers. A good way to know how far to stay back is by staying about 3-4 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. When the vehicle in front of you passes a fixed marker, like a street light, count three seconds. Add more time if it's raining, like five seconds, and then add another second per driving challenge.

Beware of Technology

There is some technology that is safe to use in bad weather, others that are not - the key is knowing which is which. Cruise control is not safe to use while you're driving in the rain because you lose some early weight transfer as you let off the gas. Traction-control, however, is made for rainy days and can prevent the wheels from slipping on wet pavement.Your antilock braking is also meant to prevent the loss of steering control during hard braking, especially on wet and slippery roads.

Stay Safe on the Roads

Whether you're driving on a bright and sunny day, or a wet dreary day, the Bledsoe's team hopes you have a safe time on the road. Whether you find yourself with a broken windshield wiper or stuck in a ditch, our automotive company at the Lake of the Ozarks is here to help. Give us a call at (573) 346-7050 for 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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7 Things You Should Know About Your Car

Your car may seem like a complicated piece of machinery - or even technology at this point, but just like any other piece of equipment, you need to know how it works. While you can hire the best auto maintenance company at the Lake of the Ozarks to make repairs or give you a tow when you're stranded, there are some situations where you may need to know how to find your way around your vehicle on your own. Here are a few things you'll want to know when you operate your vehicle.

Know the Mechanics

If your car overheats and needs some coolant added, but you don't know where the radiator is - this could make for a challenging situation. Take a few moments to put out your owner's manual and pop the hood of your vehicle. Whether you want to find the windshield wiper fluid or the oil dipstick - it's easier when you know where to look.

Inspect Your Parking Spot

Keeping an eye on your parking spot can give you a heads up for any issues before they become big problems. Leaking oil, radiator fluid and more can be seen when you are aware of what's being left on the concrete while your vehicle sits there.

Pay Attention to Detail

The problems are in the details. When you notice your vehicle making a strange noise, reacting differently to starting and stopping, or even smelling odd - Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive can help. Pay attention to the details so you can explain it to our mechanics, this can make the diagnosis faster.

Know the Levels

Do you know how to check the levels of water and oil in your vehicle? If you don't, you may want to pull out the manual of your car and learn. This won't seem necessary - until you need it.

Don't Tailgate

Tailgating not only puts you too close to a vehicle (especially if it brakes) but it doesn't allow you to see and react to things in the road. If there isn't enough distance between you and the car ahead and something happens to be in the middle of the road, you don't have time to react, and you're only option is to either hit it, or dodge around it - which is dangerous.

Learn Some Simple Maintenance

Learning how to change a tire is one of the most important. While we offer 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks, and would love to come to your aid, sometimes you just need to know how to do a few things. Checking your oil, and being able to add new oil is also a good thing to know.

Keep it Clean

Finally, keep your vehicle clean. Not only will this help it last longer, but it can make it easier to perform certain maintenance tasks.

Automotive Maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks

From quick fixes to lengthy repairs, Bledsoe's Towing is here to help. We have been located at the Lake of the Ozarks for over 50 years, and when you're looking for a trusted mechanic - we're the place. Do you have questions about your vehicle? Give us a call! Even if it's as simple as the check engine light, we can offer some troubleshooting before you bring your car out.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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How To Eliminate Driving Distractions

Driving can seem like a mundane, day to day deal, something ordinary and basic. While this may be true, it's also true that driving can be dangerous - and made worse by distractions. There are so many things being thrown at you every day, and they don't go away when you get behind the wheel. At Bledsoe's Towing, we see first-hand the dangers of distracted driving. As the best tow company at the Lake of the Ozarks, we respond to the scene of many incidents, and we don't want you to be the next. Here are a few ways you can decrease distractions while you're driving and help keep you safe on the road.

What Is Distracting You?

Did you know that 10 percent of all drivers 15-19 years old involved in fatal crashes were reported as distracted at the time? At any given moment in the United States, there are 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating an electronic device. So what is distracting you, and what is considered distracted driving? It's any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving. Here are a few things competing for your attention:

• Texting
• Using a cell phone or smartphone
• Eating and drinking
• Talking to passengers
• Grooming
• Reading, including maps
• Using a navigation system
• Watching a video
• Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player
• Smoking
• Pets

How to Eliminate Distractions

The most important thing is to focus on driving. If there is anything that is grabbing your attention, do what you can to eliminate it. Adjust your mirrors and find your radio station before you start driving, and put your cell phone in a place where you don't have access to it. If you think anyone will be concerned that you don't answer your cell phone immediately, you can state in your voicemail that you don't answer while driving and that you will get back with them soon. There are no reasons that are better than your safety.

Another way to eliminate distractions is to stow away all loose articles in your car. It's instinctive to want to catch something if it rolls or flies across your vehicle, so if you secure it safely before you begin, that is one less thing to worry about.

Keeping You Safe From Beginning to End

At Bledsoe's Towing, we know first-hand how dangerous it can be to drive distracted, and we hope that you use safe driving practices so that you don't have to call us. If, however, you do find yourself in a sticky situation, Bledsoe's Towing provides the best 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks. We would be glad to come get you and bring you back to the shop to then figure out what happened. Visit our website to learn more about our services, or give us a call at (573) 346-7050!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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3 Ways to Stay Safe During Thanksgiving Travel

Along with holiday festivities comes holiday travel, and according the AAA there will be 48.7 million Americans traveling over 50 miles from home.With excessive travel comes the possibility of auto accidents, vehicle malfunctions and more. At Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive, we see many of the things that can happen to you while you're on the road, and we are here to help. Here are a few ways you can stay safe while out on the road, and how Bledsoe's Towing can help!

Get a Check Up

Before taking your vehicle out on the road for a long drive, you can't go wrong with having it looked over. We can check the level of your fluids, your brakes, tires and more. If you'll be going on a long drive, you may even want to have your oil changed before making the trek. Don't forget to check your windshield wipers and your headlights as well. If you'll be going on a long trip, you will probably run into some type of weather, and it's best to be prepared for it with good wiper blades and lights.

When you have your car looked over before a trip, it can help diagnose any issues that might arise, and catch them before you're stuck on the side of the road. Of course, if you do find yourself stranded, don't forget to call the best towing company at the Lake of the Ozarks. We pride ourselves on taking care of you and your family and getting you back on the road fast.

Plan Your Route

During this busy time of year, it's always a good idea to make sure you know exactly where you are going. Getting lost, missing your exit, and taking wrong turns can all make for a stressed out ride. Not to mention, when you are stressed, it's harder to make safe decisions. While looking over your route, check to see if there will be any construction in between point A and point B. Road construction can add to your travel time and make the trip harder to navigate.

Drive Safe

Just as much as ever before, make sure that you are using safe practises while you're out on the road. Keep plenty of distance between you and the other vehicles. It has commonly been thought that you only need a distance of ten cars in order to stop while going 70 miles per hour, but you really need twenty four cars length to stop. If you run into any bad weather, you'll want to keep even more of a distance.

Happy Thanksgiving From Bledsoe's Towing

From the time you leave till the time you get back, the Bledsoe's Towing family hopes you have a safe and wonderful holiday. Should you have any car troubles, don't forget to call Bledsoe's for the best automotive care at the Lake of the Ozarks. Happy Thanksgiving!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Twitter

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