We’re very excited to begin our 40th year of distributing fuels and lubricants in the Pacific, from the Hawaiian islands to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands!

Maui Oil Company was incorporated in 1981, and our offices in Hawaii have slowly grown from one location on Maui, to providing petroleum products and fuel services to Lanai in 1986 as Lanai Oil Company, Hawaii Island in 2009 as Big Island Energy Company, Kauai and Molokai in 2013, and Oahu in 2018 as GP Energy Company.

Gill McBarnet designed our company logo to represent what inspires the McBarnet family, and by extension our family of companies, to provide fuel and lubricants to our island ohana every day. With several aspects in mind she created a detailed crest with a story behind it:

• The Waves: Those of us that live and work in Hawaii are surrounded by the ocean. The waves pictured on the crest represent the McBarnet family’s love and respect for the water that surrounds our islands and gives us life.
• The Ae‘o (Hawaiian Stilt bird): For our founder, Alex McBarnet, flight was lifelong passion. From his days as a pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II, to his time as a private pilot on Maui, he held a deep love for soaring with the birds. The ae‘o, or Hawaiian stilt, is a frequent visitor of the Kanaha Pond Wildlife Sanctuary adjacent to our company’s home office, and the majestic silhouette of the bird in flight seemed an appropriate image to represent the company.
• The Three Stars: There is always room to grow and improve, and the three stars remind us to be passionate about life and our personal aspirations, to reach for the stars in all that we do.

Terry (Left) and Alec McBarnett (Right) pause for a photo in front of a Maui Oil Company delivery truck.

Here’s a note from co-owner and CEO Alec McBarnet:

“Maui Oil Company, Akana Petroleum (Big Island Energy), and Garlow Petroleum (GP Energy) all started with different owners at the same time. Lanai Oil started in 1984, and although only 37 years old, they will join us in celebrating our 40^th anniversary!

Thank you to everyone that has joined us to serve the community over the last 39 years and moves us through our 40^th year. Much Aloha to all and thank you for being such a special group of individuals and families.”

Mahalo nui loa for reading about Maui Oil Company’s story and our logo. We look forward to serving you with care and respect for another 40 years! Aloha!

The drive to Hana offers stunning ocean and jungle views. Photo by Rich Hay

The Journey Begins

The Road to Hana follows the historic Hana Highway, which is also known as the 36 (later it becomes the 360), but here’s a little known travel tip: Very few locals use the number designations for roads, so when asking for directions, use the road names or landmarks. Why? Because when you’re living on a small island, there’s no need to memorize road names! Your route begins in Kahului, the central hub of Maui, full of grocery stores and gas stations, so this is the place to stock up. Pack food, water, sunscreen, swimsuits, and cash, because many vendors along the road can’t accept cards. If your car is dirty from other adventures on the island, you might want to get a car wash to prevent the spread of any tiny invaders–such as the little fire ant, an invasive pest that Maui County officials have been going to great lengths to prevent the spread of. Stop by locally-owned Maui Oil Company to sign up for a prepaid fuel card and fill up your tank–conveniently located beside Maui Express Car Wash. Be aware that the Road to Hana is on the Windward side of the island–which means it gets much more rain than Lahaina, Kihei, or Kahului. Be careful with those convertible roofs!

Enjoy the world-famous Twin Falls grotto. Photo by Rina Miele

Twin Falls

After Kahului you’ll pass through beautiful Paia (the last convenient town for fuel), then the jungle roads of Haiku, and next is the famous Twin Falls, which, just a short ways down the road, is where the winding drive will begin in earnest. Twin Falls is a breathtaking spot, an easy hike, and a major landmark on Maui. If you’re hesitant to commit to the entire drive, Twin Falls is a perfectly acceptable taste of the Road to Hana experience, complete with jungle roads and beautiful waterfalls. After this point, expect no gas stations or shops along the highway until you reach Hana Town, but there are a few fruit and bread stands, selling locally-made and harvested goods.

Bamboo forests are found in several places along the Road to Hana. Photo by Madison Olling

The Usual Travel Advisory

A quick warning: Just like most places in the world, it’s inadvisable to drink the water you’ll find in waterfalls, ponds, and streams. Avoid entering the water if you have any open cuts or wounds, and don’t get any in your mouth or eyes. If you do ingest water, let your doctor know, as Leptospirosis can cause diarrhea and other symptoms. Next, stay on the roads and trails, and obey any warning signs or property markings you see. You may have seen travel guides with “secret spots�that no one else knows about, but these are frequently on private property, and trespassing is against the law. Stay on the marked trails and roads and you’ll be just fine!

Travelers who suffer from car sickness will want to bring motion sickness supplies on this drive. Photo by Abbs Johnson

The Winding Road

Ready to push onward? Then put on your motion sickness wristbands if you need them, and plunge forward–to the famously twisty and narrow roads of Hana Highway! This is the longest and most time-consuming stretch–expect one-lane portions, bridges, and narrow, cliff-side roads. The views are worth it. There are picturesque vistas, with lots of places to stop and sight-see along the way, including hikes, waterfalls, and bamboo forests. There’s not enough time in the day to stop at all of them! The best way is to stop at the ones that look the most interesting to you, or the one with the least foot traffic. Remember, you can come back and see the other stops on your next visit! In fact, many recommend you schedule multiple days for your Hana trip, by arranging in advance to stay in Hana town accommodations.

Drive with Aloha for a fun and memorable trip! Photo by Claudio Schwarz Purzlbaum

The Secret to Enjoying the Road to Hana: Be Pono

Although it is paradise, traffic does exist in Hawaii, and the Road to Hana is no exception. Some folks drive at different speeds than others, locals are trying to make their work commute, and once in a while a big van or truck needs to pass by, all while you’re trying to juggle your first trip on Hana Highway. But don’t despair! Here’s the big secret to making it a stress-free drive: There’s a native Hawaiian word we use on the islands, and that is “Pono.â€?It means righteousness, morality, compassion. “Be Ponoâ€?is what Hawaiians say, and it means to do the right thing. To “Be Ponoâ€?on the Road to Hana, it means to be patient and understanding to your fellow drivers. Pull over if there’s a line of cars behind you, take turns letting other drivers go on the one-lane bridges, be kind and considerate. You never know what someone is experiencing, they may be in a hurry, or have an emergency. Think of others, and show a shaka to thank them for letting you go by–you’ll probably get one back! After all, we’re all in Hawai’i, so don’t sweat the traffic. Embrace the island-lifestyle of taking things slow and easy, be pono, and enjoy the drive! The reward for your kindness will be all around you, in the beautiful waterfall ponds and peaceful jungles of Hana.

Black Sand Beach and Hana town await you! Photo by William Zhang

Mahalo and Welcome!

Mahalo nui loa for reading about the secret to enjoying the Road to Hana, I hope it serves you well! If you’d like to use a prepaid fuel card to manage your gasoline expenses while visiting Maui, come see us during office hours at Maui Oil Company. Welcome to Maui, and enjoy the Road to Hana! Aloha, a hui hou!

Near the summit of Haleakala. On a clear day, the views from the mountain are breathtaking. Photo by Stephan Jola

Step 1: Bring Warm Clothes, Water, and Food

There are no gas stations or restaurants near the summit or within the park, so bring supplies!

• Pack about a gallon of water for each person going on the drive. The only source of water once you’re in the park is tap water and water fountains at the summit visitor area.
• Bring food and keep it in a cooler, it can still get warm during the drive. There are no picnic tables at the summit so you may want to pack finger food.
• Dress warmly, and in layers. You’ll be facing a wide range of temperatures, from the mid 80s at the base of the mountain, to as low as 30°F at the summit.

Rain is a common occurrence on Maui, and Haleakala is no exception. Photo by Matheus Bertelli

Step 2: Make Sure Your Vehicle is up to the Task

Double-check that your vehicle is in sound working condition before you go. You don’t want to be caught with car troubles in the middle of your fun trip to Haleakala. Follow these points and you won’t get caught at the summit with an overheating “Maui Cruiser�like the author did!

• The roads can get wet and slippery, and even icy on rare occasions, so make sure your tire treads are in excellent condition.
• Rain is common, good windshield wipers are a must. Here’s how to change a windshield wiper.
• The fog can set in quite thick, so drive slow, and make sure your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are all functioning properly.
• The drive is steep and takes a while, so your car will be working hard. Ensure your engine is topped off on fluids and is in good condition.
• Respect the posted speed limits. They are there to protect local endangered species, and your safety.

Getting a car wash just before visiting Haleakala National Park is important in protecting local wildlife. Photo by Julie B

Step 3: Take your Vehicle to the Car Wash!

After the mechanical concerns are all squared away, it’s time to look at the cleanliness of your car. Don’t worry, it’s not about car enthusiasts judging you for having a dirty car at 10 thousand feet, it’s about reducing the spread of invasive species in Haleakala’s unique ecosystem. Tiny invasive organisms such as insects, seeds, fungi, and even bacteria can have a damaging effect on the native species (Some of which are unique only to Haleakala!). To protect the native ecosystem it’s an excellent idea to wash your car just before you make the drive.

• Get a thorough car wash with soap and water to clean off all the organisms that may be clinging to your car.
• Make sure the car wash has a tire cleaning function–Tires touch every surface you visit and pick up all kinds of things in the mud, dirt, and water you drive over. Tires are the biggest spreaders of invasive species on your vehicle, so make sure they’re clean before you drive to the park.
• If possible, wash the undercarriage of your car. Just like the wheels, this part sees a lot of dirt and debris that can carry along unwanted guests.

Most importantly, enjoy Maui’s Haleakala National Park! Photo by Jay Martens

Mahalo nui loa for reading about how to prepare your car for a trip to Maui’s beautiful Haleakala crater! If we could include one more step, it would be to remember your camera and charging cables! If you’d like to learn more about Haleakala National Park, and more prep tips, visit the official website. And if you’re looking for a car wash that’s on the way to Haleakala, try Maui Express Car Wash. Aloha, a hui hou!

Photo by Julie B

What is an Express Car Wash

An Express Car Wash is a specialized car wash designed for you to drive through and have your vehicle cleaned in under 3 minutes. Your car is driven onto a track, which carries your car slowly through an automated series of water sprays, wheel blasts, rinses, cloth washes, and more. Maui Express Car Wash includes powerful vacuums as part of your purchase, near the wash, for you to clean the interior of your car.

You can also purchase amenities to clean your interior, which are kept near the vacuums! Amenities such as�/span>

• Air Fresheners
• Microfiber Towels
• Interior Wipes
• Window Cleaner
• Tire Shine

Photo from Archive

How to Pay

First select the nearest and most convenient car wash to you. Maui Express Car Wash is centrally located in Kahului Maui, 5 minutes from the airport! When you drive up to the wash, follow the lines, drive into the entrance and stop at the kiosk, where a friendly employee will take your payment and help you select which quality of wash you would like. If you’re not sure, park and ask an employee for instructions. Next, follow the staff’s prompts to guide your car into the wash tunnel. Make sure all your windows are rolled up!

Photo by Julie B

During the Wash

After you’ve paid it’s time to clean that car! Make sure you don’t have any loose items in your truck bed, that your windows are up, and just to be safe, remove your car’s antennae. Next, you’ll be directed onto the rails, an automated conveyer track that allows you to sit back while your car is carried through the wash! Once you’re on the rails, follow the staff’s prompts to put your car into neutral, then it’s time to kick back and enjoy the car wash. There’s no need to touch the wheel, the track will guide your vehicle through the wash automatically!

Photo by Julian Hochgesang

What if Something Happens?

If for any reason you’re concerned, the car wash halts, or your vehicle somehow hops the track, just honk your horn and an employee will come to assist you immediately. Your smooth car wash experience is our top priority!

Photo by Dimitry Anikin

How do I Remove Bird Poo From my Car?

Noticing that dried bird poop made it through the car wash can be frustrating, but with a little knowledge and a small amount of maintenance, this can be easily taken care of! First, a little science; bird poo is actually acidic and quite harsh on your vehicle, and the droppings harden quickly. If a car wash was strong enough to remove hardened bird droppings, it would also scratch the clear coat of your car—a scary thought! Which is why no express car wash will scrub hard enough to remove the excrement, they’re designed to gently lift away dirt and debris, because the condition of your paint job is our priority! Here’s the trick: To get rid of hardened bird poo on your car, prime it before a wash with a spray bottle containing a quart of water, and 4 tablespoons of baking soda. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes, then the doodoo will wash away with a hose or during your car wash, leaving you with a nice clean car!

Photo by Julie B

Mahalo!

In short, using an express car wash is no sweat. You just pay, park the car in neutral on the rails, and wait 3 minutes or less for a clean car! It’s a cheap and easy solution for washing your vehicle. I hope this guide helped demystify express car washes for you! Come visit us sometime at Maui Express Car Wash in Kahului. We also have an automated air station right by our entrance, and here’s how to refill your tires. Mahalo for reading, and aloha, a hui hou!

Aloha! Do you need to repair your windshield wipers? Staying on top of your windshield wiper’s maintenance is key to extending the life of your windshield. A set of damaged wipers can scratch up a windshield and result in a costly replacement. Keep reading to learn how to extend the life of your windshield wipers, and how to replace them!

Photo by Sleepi Alleyne

How to Extend the Life of your Windshield Wipers

Good maintenance and careful use can help you to extend the life of your wiper blades, and save you a little money.

• If you see debris on your wiper blades, take a soft cloth and run it gently along the blade, this will keep the rubber from chipping. A good time to check this is when you’re visiting your nearest gas station.
• Avoid running the wipers when the windshield is dry, this causes the blades to drag on the glass surface and create scratches.
• Don’t run your wipers to remove ice from your windshield, this is extra hard on the rubber blades and will age them quickly.

Photo by It’s Me Neosiam

When Should You Change Your Windshield Wipers?

Watch your windshield wipers for any sign of wear-and-tear, to prevent damage to your windshield.

• If a squeegee blade comes loose, replace it immediately, or the plastic running along your glass can cut deep gouges in the glass and result in a costly windshield replacement.
• Look for any spots that the blades aren’t wiping clean, these may be due to small pieces of debris you can wipe away with a cloth, or it might be time to replace the blade.
• Excessive squeaking when the windshield is wet is another sign that it’s time to for a replacement.

Photo by Charles Loyer

The Parts of a Windshield Wiper

Before you replace the wiper, you need to know what you’re looking for: connector type, and length. Every wiper consists of a squeegee blade which attaches to the wiper arm via a connector. The connector type varies between brands and car make. Check your vehicle’s manual to find the right connector for your car, as well as which length is required. If you have a curved windshield, you’ll need a special wiper blade. Your manual will tell you the best wiper model for the job.

Photo by Thibault Valjevac

Replacing the Blade

The most important thing to keep in mind when changing your wipers is to protect the windshield. The wiper arms are spring-loaded, and even after being pulled off the windshield into the up position, it can slam back down and potentially crack the glass. Be careful when working with the blades, and place a protective barrier between where the blade lays and the glass, such as a thick towel, to absorb the blow if the blade slams down.

Check your car’s manual for the type of blade and connector you need. The instructions for the connector should be in the manual or in the packaging of the new wiper blade you purchase.

Photo by Julie B

The most common type of connector is the hook. Here’s how to replace it:

1. Pull your wiper arm into the upright position. The blade will be parallel to the arm. Lay down a towel to protect your windshield in case the arm snaps back into place.
2. Twist the blade so that it is perpendicular to the arm.
3. Now pull the blade down and away from the hook, while bracing the squeegee side. The blade assembly should be stretching a little bit like a bow and arrow.
4. Pull the now unhooked blade assembly away from the arm.
5. Follow these steps in reverse to put the new blade on.
6. Gently lower the wiper arm back to the windshield.

Photo by Russ Ward

Alternate Solutions

There are many different connectors out there! If you don’t have a hook connector, just check your car manual for the type you need, and the instructions. If you don’t have access to your manual, don’t panic. Visit your closest auto parts store which usually has a large directory that matches the make and model of your vehicle to its corresponding windshield wiper. These directories can also be found at some big box stores with automotive departments.

Photo by NeONBRAND

If you’re having difficulty finding the right connector and wiper type, or need help installing the wiper, some auto parts stores will assist you with installing the part. Additionally, some repair shops will offer to change the wiper blade for you along with an oil change or other service. If you’re not sure or need help, reach out and call one of these locations near you to see if they offer these services.

I hope you found this guide helpful, and mahalo for reading! If you’d like to learn how to clean your windshield while at the gas station, read here. Aloha, a hui hou!

Aloha Maui! We can all use a few tips to help us make life a little bit easier. Here’s seven cheap car hacks to help you keep your car clean and save time.

Photo by Wade Lambert

Fix a Slow Seat Belt Recoil

Having a seat belt that recoils slowly can be maddening, especially when it gets caught in the car door. Before you replace the whole assembly, take some polisher or spray lubricant, which you can pick up at your closest gas station. Look at the the part where the belt recoils into, above the shoulder of your chair. Lift up the belt so you can see the metal or plastic part it slides over, spray it with a small amount, then rub it in. Now your belt should recoil much more quickly!

Photo by Hassan Ouajbir

How to Clean a Foggy Instrument Cluster Panel

Many a well-meaning car owner has washed their car’s instrument panel window with the wrong product and slowly witnessed a “fog�appear over their interface in the following days. The plastic used for this panel can be quite sensitive to the wrong chemicals, and using an ammonia based cleaner, such as your typical glass cleaner, can cause scratches and the “fog�to appear. The fog will seem to vanish when cleaned and then return in a few minutes. This is because the fog is actually lots of tiny scratches in the plastic, and is temporarily filled in with water, which soon evaporates. Dab a very small amount of an oil-based product onto a soft cloth, such as petroleum jelly, spray lubricant, or even olive oil, and carefully wipe across the entire plastic panel. The fog will vanish and your interface will once again become crystal clear.

Photo by Latrach Med Jamil

How to Clear Up a Cloudy Headlight

A yellowed and cloudy headlight is caused by all the chemicals and dust your car encounters over time. The good news is it’s not caused by abrasions, so it can be cleaned with a baking soda based cleaner, such as toothpaste. If you’re feeling extra industrious, mix up a paste of baking soda and water yourself, but toothpaste should do fine. Carefully scrub the paste into the headlight, using a toothbrush or a cloth. If the fogging wasn’t too serious, your headlight should clear up after 15 minutes of scrubbing. Don’t forget to rinse it clean with water afterwards.

Photo by Andrew Neel

How to Keep a Windshield from Fogging

If the interior of your windshield fogs up with moisture all the time, there’s a few things you can do to prevent this. The first step is to clean it thoroughly. A dust-covered windshield will collect moisture much more efficiently than a clean one. Be sure to use a glass cleaner specially made for car interior glass, because this is another situation where ammonia-based cleaners can cause issues (not always though). After you’ve wiped the interior glass down, there’s one more preventative step to take. You want something that will attract moisture and keep it off your windshield. The best option is to find some cat litter crystals, and keep them on or near your dashboard. Don’t just pour them out loosely of course, fill a small cloth bag to keep the crystals in. In a pinch you can even use a sock, and tie it off. Keep it on the dashboard, and enjoy your nice clear windshield!

Photo by Pedro Sandrini

How to Clean AC Vents

Most folks when wiping down their car discover the annoyance of the air vents and how impossible it is to dust them properly. Put away that microfiber cloth and pay a visit to the nearest craft or hardware store. In the paint section you can find cheap foam wipers with wooden handles in several different sizes–the small ones are perfect for dusting between vent panels. The foam is usually slightly larger than the vent opening and it will squish to fit, pulling off all that unsightly dust along with it.

Photo by Mel Baylon

Use a Carabiner to Carry Groceries

We’ve all wished for the ability to carry groceries inside in one trip. Sometimes it’s not about the weight, it’s the volume. Solve this problem by picking up a cheap carabiner, preferably with a soft rubber grip so you don’t hurt your hands. Keep it close by and handy, like in your trunk or on the headrest bars. Clip all the grocery bags into the carabiner, and suddenly you can carry everything inside with one trip! Carabiners are also handy when attached to your headrest, where you can clip bags on for easy organization, and to keep things off the floor of the vehicle.

Photo by Malte Lu

Remember Which Side Your Gas Tank is on

If you’ve ever forgotten which side of the car your gas tank is on, then you’re also faced with the anxiety of not knowing which side of the gas station pump to pull into. This problem is compounded when you’re traveling and renting cars. Just remember this trick: Look at the gas symbol on your dashboard, there should be a small triangle close to it, and this points to the side of your car the gas tank is on. Problem solved!

Mahalo for reading and aloha, a hui hou!

Photo by Julie B

Aloha Maui! If you have trouble keeping your car clean, then you’re probably like most people; you’ve got things on your mind, you’re busy (all the time), and your car’s cleanliness is what suffers. After all, it is much faster to quickly throw a wrapper into the passenger seat than to tidy up. In this case, the trick is to get ahead of yourself to keep things clean. Here’s a few easy tips that will help you keep your car looking presentable and organized.

Photo by Julie B

Control the Garbage

Keep a bag in the car. If you know you’ll throw wrappers and empty soda cups into the passenger seat floor, and neglect to throw them away, give yourself an out by keeping a designated trash bag close by, and throw your trash in there. Save your paper bags from your grocery store visits and keep one on the passenger seat floor. Next time you’re at the gas station you can just throw the whole thing away and start over.

After you’ve handled the trash, it’s time to clean up all the crumbs, bits of sand, and dirt. You can kill two birds with one stone by visiting a car wash equipped with vacuums. If you find yourself in Kahului, come visit us at Maui Express Car Wash! Vacuum use is free with every car wash.

Photo by Julie B

The Windshield

A dusty windshield with nothing to wash it off is an unsightly hazard. Circumvent this by keeping an extra bottle of windshield washer fluid in the trunk. If you know you’ll keep putting off visiting the store to pick one up, keep one step ahead of yourself, and always have a spare on hand. Washer fluid is cheap, so don’t worry about the cost. Your busy past-self will thank you for sparing them an extra trip inside the closest gas station to buy more.

Photo by Julie B

Beat the Dust and Grime

Next time you’re at your nearest auto parts store, take five minutes to put together a bucket of cleaning supplies for your car’s interior, so you’ll always have them on hand. Throw in some multi-purpose wipes, a microfiber duster, a travel-size bottle of hand sanitizer, a roll of paper towels, and an ashtray if you need it (there are special odor-reducing ones that fit right into your cup holder).

Photo by Julie B

Tackle the Trunk

You might know where everything is in the pile of things in your trunk, but to avoid embarrassing situations and to make room for your groceries, pick up a bin or two to keep everything sorted out. Get some plastic bins cheaply at a hardware or home supply store, a secondhand shop, or grab some cardboard boxes (anything is better than nothing!). Organize by types of items. I usually separate by repair items, and being on Maui, beach supplies. Your trunk will be much more manageable this way.

Photo by Julie B

Don’t Forget the Exterior

If you can never seem to get around to making a trip to the car wash, find one that’s attached to a gas station, so you can get it all done in one trip. The nearby option of an express wash will make it all the easier. Plenty of car washes will also give you free wipes and an air freshener for your purchase. Mahalo for reading, I hope this short guide helped you have a nice clean car that you can be proud of! Aloha, a hui hou!

Aloha Maui! We’ve all been in that familiar situation, where you don’t have enough time for a car wash, but your car’s windows are in need of a wipedown. If you’ve ever tried to wash your windows with the gas station squeegee, you’ll know there’s usually several annoying streaks left over. These streaks are usually the result of excess water pushing up over the uppermost part of the blade. Just follow these steps and you’ll know how to get streak-free, professional looking windshield in no time flat. It’s easy to do in just a few minutes.

Tip: Try to clean your windshield in the shade. If the hot sun is shining directly on your car, the liquid will evaporate in no time, and make your attempt at cleaning the windshield a mess.

Photo by Julie B

Step 1: Clean the Wipers

Your first step is to pull up the windshield wipers to clean, this also gets them out of your way once you’re cleaning the glass. It’s best to do this step first in order to avoid dirt and debris falling on your freshly washed windshield. Use a wet paper towel or cloth to wipe them down and pull off any leaves or insects that may have gotten caught. Be careful not to damage the blade of the wiper, or you might have to replace them. Then again, now is the perfect time to put in new ones if your current set has worn out. Remember to leave the wipers up for the next step…

Photo by Julie B

Step 2: Wipe the Glass

Most gas stations have a squeegee and water bucket near the fuel pumps, sometimes attached to the rubbish bin, or in a separate container. At Maui Oil Company, you can find one on each of our main fuel pump islands. Dip the sponge into the water until it’s saturated. Avoid scraping the bottom of the bucket in case any dirt has settled. Apply the liquid and sponge liberally to the windshield. If you’re worried you can’t finish the task before the liquid has evaporated, or you can’t reach across the entire windshield, work in sections. I prefer to divide the task into two halves. Once you’ve wet the glass and picked up the dirt, it’s time for the best part.

Photo by Julie B

Step 3: Squeegee Off the Water

Take the blade side of the squeegee, and starting at the top of the windshield, wipe horizontally, pulling towards yourself. Here’s the secret to avoiding streaks: Overlap each swipe of the blade by a couple inches, and wipe the blade dry with a paper towel after each pass. This prevents water from flowing over the sides of your blade and creating streaks, allows you to avoid time-consuming arch swipes, and helps if you have to work in sections. Continue this process until you’ve reached the bottom of the windshield, then repeat for the other half if necessary.

Photo by Julie B

That’s it, You’re Done!

Gently put the windshield wipers back down, replace the squeegee in the bucket, throw away the paper towel in the nearest trash can, and you’re ready to hit the road again. If you find yourself in Kahului and are looking for the closest place to wash your windshield and fill up on cheap, quality gas, think about visiting Maui Oil Company, where membership is always free. I hope this blog helped you have a cleaner windshield! Aloha, a hui hou!

Aloha Maui! Your car runs on fluids, mostly fuel, but there are seven other types to keep an eye on, some more often than others. In this guide I’ll cover how to check and refill your car’s fluids, from your windshield washer, engine oil, coolant, and more. Some fluids need to be checked regularly, others only every 50,000 miles or so. Some can be refilled easily while at your nearest gas station, and others need to be brought to a mechanic to be checked. Every engine is different, so the pictures aren’t going to be a perfect guide by any means, but the visual cues are similar, and we’ll do our best to help you find what you’re looking for. The one you’ll be refilling the most often is probablyâ€?/span>

Photo by Julie B

Windshield Washer Fluid

Available at a gas station near you, windshield washer fluid is cheap and easy to replace. Once you’re low, look for the clear plastic tub, usually on the passenger side of your engine (although placement varies from vehicle to vehicle), marked by a windshield symbol. You can check your car manual for the exact symbol if you’re not sure. Pop open the lid and pour the washer fluid in carefully, and use a funnel if you’re worried about spilling. If you do spill, don’t worry too much, it’s only soapy water. Keep an extra gallon in your trunk, in a spot where it won’t roll around, so you won’t be caught out without it. That might be a good idea for our next item too…

Photo by Julie B

Engine Oil

Oil is what lubricates your engine and keeps things running smoothly, and can be bought at your closest auto shop, or gas station. Running out can damage your vehicle and even cause it to stop functioning. For this reason it’s a good idea to keep tabs on your car’s oil level so you can keep it topped off between oil changes. First, wait until your vehicle has been sitting a while. To get a proper reading you want the engine to be at rest. You can find your oil tank which has two openings, one large unscrewable cap to add more oil, and a smaller opening that contains the dipstick, which usually has a small, circular, brightly-colored ring you can hold it by. Take out the dipstick and wipe it off, then reinsert it fully to get a correct reading. If the reading is low, check your car manual for the right oil to add to your engine. Use a funnel if think you might spill, as oil on the engine can cause fumes. Remember to get an oil change after every 3,000-5,000 miles.

Photo by Julie B

Coolant

Unless you suspect a leak or overheating, you should only have to check your coolant, or radiator fluid, every 50,000 miles. Be careful to only check the coolant when the car is cool. If you check the levels while the engine is hot, or overheating, steam will escape when opening the cap and you can burn yourself quite badly. Check your manual to find out what type of coolant is best for your engine. If the levels are low, have a mechanic check for a leak.

Photo by Raduz

Transmission Fluid

Your transmission fluid is another lubricant that keeps your car running smoothly. The fluid that’s in there should last the lifetime of the vehicle, but if you’re encountering transmission troubles, the best and cheapest first option is to check the fluid levels. The process for checking these levels depends on the vehicle. Some have access to the dipstick, others need a mechanic to check it. If you do have a dipstick for transmission fluid, check it the same way as you would the engine oil: Wait for the engine to be at rest, and wipe the dipstick before checking to get an accurate reading. If the fluids are low or black, it’s time to add more or change it completely. Check with your mechanic to add to your transmission fluid. Use your manual to find the symbol your vehicle uses for transmission, and to find the correct fluid type.

Photo by Julie B

Air Conditioning Fluid

The refrigerant inside your car is what keeps your AC running cool. You can’t check the levels with a simple dipstick, but if you purchase an AC recharge kit, or an AC Gauge and thermometer, you can monitor the amount in your engine and if it’s time for a refill. Look for the low side port, it will be a spigot attached to a larger tube, close to the compressor and the evaporator. Your engine should be on for this one, turn on the AC and engage the compressor clutch. Follow the instructions on your AC recharge kit to check the temperature and pressure. A mechanic can also do this for you if you’re not confident.

Photo by Dominika Roseclay

Power Steering Fluid

Responsible for lubricating your power steering components, this fluid can be checked anytime between 30,000-75,000 miles (the number is debated among the community). You normally shouldn’t have to change the fluid, but if you suspect a leak, bring it to your mechanic’s attention. The reservoir you’re looking for will say “Steeringâ€?on the cap. There’s not always a dipstick for this one, so you may need to inspect it visually. As usual, consult your manual for what type of steering fluid you need, what your vehicle’s corresponding symbol is, and ask your mechanic to check it if you’re unsure.

Photo by Julie B

Brake Fluid

The frequency with which you need to change your brake fluid changes widely from car to car; check your manual to see how often you should do this. You can normally find the brake master cylinder in the back of the engine. Check the fill line to see if your levels have dropped. The fluid should be close to the fill line, within half an inch. Be careful not to overfill. If the levels are dropping, it may be due to a leak, in which case your brakes should be inspected by a professional. Warning: Brake fluid is extremely toxic, wash your hands thoroughly after handling it, and if you’re feeling uncertain, have a mechanic take care of this for you.

Photo by Julie B

Mahalo for Reading!

I hope you found this article on checking your car’s fluids helpful! If you’d like to learn some other maintenance tips, here’s how to refill your car’s tires, and 5 ways to improve gas mileage. Mahalo nui loa for reading, and next like you’re looking for a cheap solution for a gas station near you, think about signing up for our free membership at Maui Oil Company! Aloha, a hui hou!

Aloha Maui! Trying to save money on gas is a tall order, but you can do more to ease the strain on your wallet than by just searching for the closest cheap fuel station. There’s a few easy things you can do to improve the gas mileage of your vehicle that will keep your visits to the station further apart, and save you money! Don’t worry, it’s not as hard as it sounds, follow these 5 steps to stave off those runs to the nearest station.

Photo by Julie B

Check the pressure in your tires

One of the easiest steps you can take to improve your fuel mileage is to check the air pressure in your tires. Having low air in your tires increases the surface area of rubber from your tire touching the road as well as the amount of gas your car needs to propel forward. You can find the recommended PSI for your tires inside your car door or in your manual–don’t use the PSI listed on your tire, that’s the maximum allowed PSI and inflating to that amount is not recommended. You can normally fill your tires at an air station near you. Maui Oil Company has a free automated air pump which all are welcome to use. For more details on how to fill your tires, visit our tutorial.

Photo by Sara Garnica

Remove your unused car rack

Have you ever seen one of those car commercials that shows the car in a wind tunnel? It looks slick, right? If you saw the same car with a rack or other cargo attached you’d see the air lines go in all sorts of screwy directions! That’s because adding racks and cargo to the roof of your car can cause a lot of wind drag, badly reducing the efficiency on your gas mileage. If you’re in-between camping and other trips, and aren’t using the rack, considering removing it to improve your fuel efficiency! The effect of removing your racks on your car should be noticeable after they’ve been taken down.

Photo by Hassan Ouajbir

Ease down on the gas

It’s so easy to get in the habit of pushing the speedometer higher and higher, but in addition to being safer, (and legal!) you can save on gas if you stay under the speed limit. After your car reaches 45 mph, loss in fuel efficiency increases. According to fueleconomy.gov, it’s safe to assume that for each 5 mph you drive over 50 is like paying an extra 18 cents per gallon for gas! In addition to the loss per gallon in overall speed, you lose more fuel efficiency when slowing and accelerating rapidly. Aggressive driving and speeding is a quick way to empty your fuel tank. Ease off the pedal and relax, which is easy to do because you’re saving money!

Photo by Peter Pryharski

Letting your engine idle wastes gasoline

If you’re like me then you’ve heard about the enormous amount of fuel it takes for NASA’s rockets to make the launch from ground level to outer-space, and have made the questionable connection that this somehow applies on a much smaller scale to any vehicle. The truth is that it only takes about ten seconds worth of travel out of your gas tank to start most cars, so letting you car idle instead of just turning it off and on again is definitely wasting your fuel. You don’t need to go so far as to turn it off and on at red lights (although some hardcore fuel-savers do!) but if you’re waiting in the parking lot for your friend who swears it will only be a 30 second in-and-out visit to the store, then turning the engine off is your best bet to improve your fuel savings.

Photo by Julie B

This one only involves pushing a button!

Okay so you’re going the speed limit and you’ve cut back on the idling, your tires have been inflated (or deflated) to the correct PSI, and you even took down your kayak rack that you haven’t touched in six months, and is currently sitting serenely in the garage where it can’t do any more harm to your mileage�What else can you do? The answer is simple and easy, all you have to do is push the cruise control. If you’re like most drivers when you’re on the highway and manually maintaining a speed of 45mph, you’re constantly making micro-adjustments to your speed, slowing down a little, speeding back up, speeding up too much and braking, etc. All these subtle changes in your speed affect your gas mileage. If you maintain a constant speed with minimal changes by utilizing your cruise control you’ll save a lot of fuel.

Photo by Julie B

Every little bit helps

I hope these fuel saving tips help ease the strain on your wallet and your gas tank! If after all these steps if you’re still on the lookout for a cheap solution for gasoline, think about signing up for one of Maui Oil Company’s free memberships, here in Kahului, Maui! You can visit our membership page or speak to us in person. Mahalo nui loa for reading!