Another year, and another DVLA auction. The venue for the first auction of 2012 was the Stratford Manor Hotel in Warwickshire. Although the venue is a central location, it was very poorly attended yet again by members of the public. In fairness though, this was probably due to the fact that a large percentage of bidders now use the Internet facilities provided by SMA, The Scottish Motor Auction team responsible for running the sale.

Using these online facilities enables buyer to bid at the sale at the click of a button. Its not as good as being there although it does save a lot of money on travelling expenses and accommodation if you are considering bidding on each of the 3 days of the sale. The other methods of bidding are, of course, attending the sale, leaving a postal bid or using a company in the industry to arrange a call back so that you can bid live over the phone.

All the registrations were auctioned off in alphabetical order so there were quiet periods in the sale where the less popular combinations of letters sold for lower amounts and therefore kept the sale moving quickly.

As the more popular two and two registrations, as they are called, are starting to dry up due to the frequency of the auction sales, some of the more popular combinations are now appearing with three digit number such as 700 RB and 400 CL for example. These private number plates appear more attractive than the nondescript two digit ones. There appeared to be more and more names at this auction sale such as ART 111R to resemble ARTHUR, CH11 PPY for a carpenter perhaps, and EAM 8N which looked a lot like EAMON and they are starting to make significant hammer prices. In fact the most expensive private number plate sold at the sale was a name. The registration plate DH11 LON was sold for sixty one thousand pounds on the hammer. With the addition of the buyer’s premium of eight percent and the VAT, which needed to be added, the total price of this registration amounted to over seventy nine thousand pounds.

Other high value plates that were sold were 55 O, which we assume was bought by a Ferrari owner for his Ferrari 550, that made almost forty seven thousand pounds once the additional fees had been added to the hammer price.

Private Number Plates

The Private Plate Company are one of the longest trading private number plate dealers in the UK. Their success is attributed to their ability to provide quality private number plates at sensible prices in the quickest possible time.

Visit the website at http://www.theprivateplatecompany.co.uk/

Original article

Your tires are an important element of your vehicle’s safety. Good tires help keep your vehicle safe, you and your passengers safe, and yes, even other drivers safe. Because so much safety depends on your tires, it’s important to have your tires in the best possible shape.

Fall is a good time to think about tires. After the road trips and vacations you have taken during the summer, your tires may be ready for replacement. You can take advantage of the season by watching for back-to-school sales or winterizing service specials offered by auto service garages and tire shops. By replacing your tires in time for winter, you can be sure of having the best possible tires for the challenges of winter driving. You can purchase a full set of all-season tires and have them put on your car, or you can purchase some snow tires in addition to any all-season tires you may need. Snow tires provide increased traction and control in icy and snowy road conditions. These tires are especially useful to people who drive in areas with hills and other frequent inclines.

All-season tires are designed to handle a wide variety of road conditions. They are tested to handle wet, dry, rocky, and snowy conditions and will provide the traction and control necessary to handle most driving situations. They are an excellent tire choice for the road conditions most vehicles will encounter throughout the year.

Another aspect of tire safety regards the care of tires. To maximize the benefits of your tires, make sure they have the right amount of air pressure in them. Some drivers believe that more air is better, but this isn’t true. Each tire has different air pressure needs in order to provide its best performance. It’s easy to find out what air pressure your tires need. This information is printed on the tire itself, usually in raised letters so it’s easy to see. If it’s easier for you, write this information down and keep it in your vehicle’s glove compartment for quick reference. Having a tire gauge is helpful to make sure you have just the right amount of air – not too much, not too little. Tire gauges are inexpensive and can be found in any auto supply store or department store with an automotive department. Tire gauges can even be found in grocery stores that carry basic auto supplies. Though some self-service air pumps will have a tire gauge available, it is helpful to carry one of your own in your car.

Keeping your tires in good shape isn’t a difficult task, but it does require periodic attention. You can establish a habit of checking your tires each time you get in your car; just take a quick peek at them to make sure that none are flat or becoming worn down. If you do spot anything like this, it’s probably time for new tires. Tires are important for your safety, and so is car insurance. A car insurance policy will make sure you’re taken care of in case of an accident. Prevention can help stop a bad situation from becoming worse and car insurance will make sure that you get the help you need in case anything does happen.

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Original article

It’s important to know which brake pads are best for you, considering that they are only the most vital system on your automobile. A lot relies on the hard work they constantly perform for you. Sometimes taken for granted, they could potentially save your life, and the life of your family. So what is it that we’re actually buying when we purchase a set of brakes for our vehicles? There are 4 basic types of brake materials: semi-metallic, non-asbestos organic, low-metallic NAO and ceramic.

4 Types of Brake Pads:

1. Semi-metallic – Semi-metallic brake pads generally consist of anywhere between 30 to 65 percent metal material which may include steel wool bits or wire, iron powder, graphite or copper mixed with inorganic fillers, and friction modifiers that hold that whole recipe together. This is the most common type of brake pad and for years the majority of automobiles used this type of friction material due to their durability. Another positive is their superior brake heat transfer capabilities. However, they tend to wear down brake rotors quickly, have noise issues, and don’t always perform as well till they are warmed up.

2. Non-asbestos organic – Typically this type of brake pad is simply known as “organic brake pads” or “NAO brake pads” for short. This brake pad material is made from such items as rubber, glass, carbon and Kevlar fibers, with filler materials and high-temperature brake pad resins. Much softer than their semi-metallic counterparts, these brake pads boast lower noise complaints and less wear to each brake rotor. The downfall of these brake pads is that they wear much faster and create a lot of brake dust build-up on the wheels, and they don’t stop your car as well.

3. Low-metallic NAO – As the name suggests, these pads are made from an organic compound mixed with minimal amounts of copper or steel. Generally they contain more than 10 percent but less than 30 percent metal. The metal in these pads provides better heat transfer and braking distances. However, this also makes the pads noisier than their organic counterparts, but not quite as dusty.

4. Ceramic – Growing more and more popular on today’s vehicles, these brake pads are put together with ceramic fibers, a variety of bonding and filler materials and sometimes even small amounts of metal. No two compositions are exactly alike except for the fact that they contain a ceramic material. Ceramic brake pads are create the least brake dust, are quiet brake pads, and offer the best braking characteristics without wearing down the rotors like the other braking compounds. These brakes don’t brake as well until they are warmed up.

The brake system is the most important safety feature on your vehicle. Talk with your auto mechanic about which brake pad will work best for you. However inconvenient it may be to have them checked, it would be much more inconvenient if they failed. Whenever uncertain about your automobile, have a qualified automotive technician check it out. Your life and your family’s life ride on it.

Justin Frohnhoefer has spent the last ten years in the automotive service and repair industry in sales, training, and management, including 5 years at automotive service companies such as Goodyear Tire and Service shops. He is very knowledgeable and passionate about cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Justin Frohnhoefer started Auto Service Security with the mission of educating people about the automotive service and repair industry so they can get the best deal on auto repair. Our goal is to save you time, money, and concern when your vehicle is at your local auto service shop.

For more information visit http://www.autoservicesecurity.com/ or email us at news@autoservicesecurity.com.

Original article

The last thing you want to happen when you buy a used car is to find out after the fact that you bought a car that was flooded. This can happen when a car has been through a major catastrophe, such as a hurricane, and has been sent to the salvage yard. Its title should reflect that it has been damaged, but it isn’t too difficult for unscrupulous people to buy these cars, fix them up and have them retitled, often in states far away from the damage.

You can search for tell tale signs of a flooded car and avoid buying a lemon car:

Take a whiff — Let your senses tell you if something is wrong with a car. Musty smells can be detected even if the cabin, trunk or engine pay has an unmistakeable perfume or cleaning solution smell. That smell alone should tell you that something is not right. Why else would a seller try to use a cleaning solution or perfume in a car he is trying to sell?

Feel the carpeting — Flood damaged cars usually have new carpeting. If the carpeting feels too new compared to the age of the car, your suspicions should be raised. If the carpet has not been replaced, run your hands over it to looks for signs of staining and fading. A carpet that has been soaked just doesn’t feel right either — the pile can feel rough. Use the same testing methods for the upholstery too.

Look in nooks and crannies — Flip the rear seats over, move the front seats back and forth, and peel away the carpeting. Look closely at the bolts and seat runners — if these appear rusty, then the car has been water damaged. Check the tire well, storage compartments and door pockets for signs of water. Staining and residual matter could be present.

Check the electrical system — Damage to your car’s electrical system may be more difficult to see, but if all of the wires beneath the dashboard are new, then you can expect that this car has been damaged. Replacing the wires won’t mask worse problems such as salt water in the engine, in the transmission or in other components.

Explore the trunk — New carpeting in the trunk, a new jack for the spare tire or anything else that doesn’t match up with the rest of the trunk should be a warning sign. Check the gasket around the trunk as well as the hood — it could be brittle or new if the current owner has replaced it. Wiring in the tail lamps could be damaged. Look up and within the trunk lid for signs of rust, discoloration and foul odors.

You can also track your vehicle’s history by obtaining a CarFax report or by visiting the National Insurance Crime Bureau and using its VinCheck service to find out whether a car has been declared an unrecovered stolen or salvage vehicle. Finally, hire a trusted mechanic to inspect your car too. He may turn up things you’ve missed or didn’t think to inspect.

Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of “Auto Trends Magazine.” Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy’s Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Dodge Caliber deflectors and Dodge Avenger auto parts.

Original article

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the mess in your car? Are you worried when other people get into your car that it will smell or that they will be disgusted by the mess? Most people care about taking care of their car. It is pretty simple to take a wiper and some soapy water to your windshield while filling up on gas, too. It is another thing entirely, however, to keep your car completely clean all the time, especially when you share your car with siblings, roommates, or your spouse and children. Sometimes it can seem like keeping your car clean is completely out of your power.

Keeping a shared car clean can be harder than finding cheap car insurance, but it can also be easy if you start early. When you get a new car that you plan to share, it is important to start good habits right away before things start to get out of control on their own. Some of these rules may be difficult to adjust to, for you and for those you are sharing your vehicle with, but they can be very important.

Here are some rules you might want to consider. First of all, you may want to think about not eating in your car. There are many reasons for this. Firstly, food can spill and stain or leave crumbs behind, some of which will be difficult to reach or clean up. If you are buying fast food, there are almost always boxes, bags, or wrappers that could easily be carelessly left behind. Usually, hot food will also leave a lingering smell in your car that may be difficult to get rid of.

You may also want to establish a rule about not leaving anything in your car. No papers, no boxes, no groceries, and so forth. Whatever it is that tends to clutter your vehicle the most should be at the top of the list. If you are concerned about your family, roommates, or carpool buddies getting your car dirty, you may want to add rules about wiping off their shoes or clothes, or you may want to think about placing seat covers as needed.

One practice that may be valuable, especially with small children, is if things still become messy, to have them help you clean out your car regularly. Encourage them to clean up after themselves every time they ride in your new car so that they will have less work to do during the regular cleanings. With particularly young or wild children, it may be a good idea to offer a reward for a car that stays clean for, say, a week or more.

The most important thing about keeping your car as fresh and clean as the day you bought it, however, is to remember no matter what rules you create, to refuse to back down on them. Usually, if you make an exception one time-if, for example, you let someone eat breakfast on their way to work or school in a food-free car-you will most likely continue to make exceptions until your rules are no more. Stick to it and you will enjoy a better smelling, better looking car.

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Original article

The Ferrari FF has a four-wheel drive that operates like a kind of “full traction control” thanks to a sophisticated forecasting system integrated into the stability control, the on-board electronic structure (that manages and harmonizes the operation of the engine), the gearbox, F-1 Trac, E-Diff, ABS, suspensions. The operation of the four-wheel drive instantly determines the correct amount of torque for each wheel and the car also adopts a unique concept of transferring power to the front axle. The differential is removed and each half shaft has its own control clutch allowing the torque to be applied in a modulated way, depending on the needs at each wheel at any given moment. Besides being seamless in operation, the system is also lighter and it saves energy by reducing rotational drag.

The FF easily gets to grips with extreme road conditions, such as in the middle of the desert or snowing and iced surfaces. The interior enhances a unique allure, comfort and uniqueness. The new instrumental panel features the traditional rev counter, which also tells the driver what gear the car is, set between two high-resolution 5″ displays. The left-hand display lists the main vehicle status data as well as VDA (Vehicle Dynamic Assistance) output which show the controls activated in any given Manettino setting. A trip computer and parking sensor information are also featured. The right-hand display shows the speedometer, the main infotainment data and images from the front and rear parking cameras. The satellite pod to the left of the steering wheel manages the on-board instrument panel, located directly in front of the driver. The center console houses the F1 panel and its dynamic controls: the Launch Control button which sends maximum torque to the ground for spin-free, high performance starts in all conditions including snow and ice; reverse, and the Auto button to put the gearbox in automatic.

The FF new infotainment system is the result of an evolution of the Man-Machine interface. It features a 6.5″, high-contrast display with touch screen control; a Bluetooth connection with Audio Streaming to allow occupants to wirelessly listen to music from their own multimedia devices, a sat navigation with maps and 3D views, voice command function, two USB connections, and a display with alphanumeric keypad for phone dialing. It is also fully compatible with new-generation iPods and iPhones. The main functions are available either at the touch of a fingertip or through voice commands: drivers can simply order the system to make a telephone call or select a predetermined road route. The display graphics have been completely redesigned to make them user friendly. All of which makes the FF feels very much like home. Except a little faster, of course…Just a little.

As every Ferrari, the Ferrari FF has a truly unique design approach and technology innovations to achieve indisputable performance and driving experience. Inquiry about the new FF or Ferrari California at Ferrari Silicon Valley today.

Original article

With the introduction of plethora of diesel hatchback cars in India, the level of competition among the car makers is also getting edgy. Due to high lending rates and continuous rise in petrol prices the domestic and global car manufacturers has offered diesel models in Indian automotive industry. The competition soared when Renault India launched its all new compact hatch Pulse in diesel variant only. Here is the list of few of the best diesel hatchbacks in India.

Ford Figo: Ford India, American auto giant, offered the diesel version of its most successful car model, Ford Figo in Indian automotive industry. A small car from the company, Figo is a worthy compact car to own. The Ford Figo is powered by 1.4 L Duratorq Titanium, 1399cc diesel powertrain which also powers the Fiesta sedan and Ikon. With this powerful Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, the Figo is available in four different models- LXI, VXI, ZXI and Titanium. The top end model of the car is priced at Rs, 5.45 lakh and offers a decent fuel economy of 15 Km/L in city roads and 18 Km/L on highways.

Hyundai i20: Hyundai i20 is a premium hatch which was launched in 2008 by Hyundai Motor India Limited, country’s largest passenger vehicle exporter and second largest car manufacturer. Hyundai offered i20 in both petrol and diesel models. It is one of the most stunning Hyundai car model in India and its dynamic looks have had a lot to do with its success. Hatchback houses a 1396 cc diesel engine and is available in four different i20 variants- Era, Magna, Sportz and Asta. The top end model Asta costing Rs. 6.98 lakh delivers an excellent fuel economy of 18 Km/L in city and 23 Km/L on highways.

Maruti Suzuki Swift: The new 2011 Maruti Swift hatch has been one of the most successful premium small car in Indian auto industry. This car gets its power from a 1248 cc diesel engine which also duties with the Indica Vista, Fiat Punto and the Maruti Ritz. But the homegrown maker has fine tuned the engine to churn out better acceleration and better fuel efficiency. This car is available in two diesel models LDI and VDI. The VDI model tagged at Rs. 5.29 lakh and offers a mileage of 19 Km per liter.

Volkswagen Polo: This great hatchback model in India comes with super styling. The car is offered in both petrol and diesel engines. The Car is powered by the 1199 cc engine and comes in three diesel models – Volkswagen Polo 1.2 L Trendline, Volkswagen Polo 1.2 L Comfortline and high end Volkswagen Polo 1.2 L Highline. The top end model of Polo hatch is priced at Rs. 7.15 lakh and offers an impressive mileage of 15.5 Km per liter in city roads and 21 Km/L on highways.

Want to know more about Chevrolet cars in India like upcoming Chevrolet Enjoy MPV and Chevrolet Beat diesel log onto Cardekho.com.

Original article

Admit it or not, the performance of your car is one of the greatest contributors that will determine how you “love” your car. Changing the performance of your car can cost a lot of money, but with the help of an engine computer, you will be able to tune the performance of your car without having a hard time. With the help of an auto computer, you will be able to increase gas mileage and provide you with great driving experience.

Aside from the feel and cost-efficiency, you will also be able to increase the maximum horsepower of your car with the help of an auto computer. This will allow you to easily increase the power of your car, and will help you enhance air intake, exhaust, and spark plugs for further enhancement of its performance. All you have to do is to have an engine computer installed and connected to the electrical system of your car.

When you buy your vehicle, you will be given all the information that you need to know about it such as recommended mileage, fuel efficiency, and “maximum” horsepower. The truth is that you will only be provided with the stock performance, and there is more to your vehicle that what the manufacturer says. All you have to do is to have the right engine computer and you will be able to unleash the real power of your vehicle.

With proper remapping of the electronic control, you will be able to experience better fuel efficiency, stability, horsepower, and torque. All you have to do is to look for a compatible auto computer, and have it programmed by a technician according to your needs. This will give you all the power that you need from your vehicle and you won’t have to spend a fortune just to have a “super car” that can provide you with the performance that you want to have.

Though there are a lot of advantages that you can get from having an engine computer installed in your vehicle, you still need to make sure that you will be installing it properly. Improper installation of an auto computer could burnout your engine and would cost more money. This is the reason why it would be better if you are going to consult a professional who can help you choose the best engine computer and have it programmed for you. This will give you the all the features that you want to have in your computer.

The power of an engine computer is limitless and it changes the way our vehicle feels when we’re driving it. But what happens when it starts to malfunction? Replacing it can cost you a lot of money, but if you know a place where you can buy an auto computer, it won’t be that expensive for you.

Original article

When shopping around for used cars, there are a lot of variables you should take into consideration. For instance, it is highly recommended that you firstly think about how old the car is, how many miles it has clocked up over the duration of its lifetime, whether or not the car has ever been in an accident, and so much more.

To help you make the best decision possible when you purchase your next used vehicle, this article will give you three great tips to consider when you are shopping around for a “new” used car.

1. Always insist on a CARFAX or AutoCheck report. Both of these reports use the vehicle identification number (VIN) of used cars to review the history of the car. What is the difference between these two reports? AutoCheck, offered by Experian Automotive, on top of the standard reporting factors also provides each car an AutoCheck score; this score can be likened to a credit score and will help you gauge the comprehensive value of the car you wish to purchase.

2. Check the cost of insurance. When shopping for used cars for sale, you may find a fantastic deal on a vehicle you never thought you would be able to afford. Before signing the paperwork on such a supposedly great deal, be sure to check what the cost of insurance is likely to be for the vehicle. Even a great deal may not compensate for a higher insurance rate.

3. Do not forget to haggle. Haggling is an invaluable skill when looking to purchase used cars. Not only does it help you financially by getting a lower price, but it will also boost your confidence by making you feel like you got a far better deal than you may have otherwise.

In fact, one strategy that has helped many consumers get a better deal is to bring with you only enough cash (or a bank check) that covers the price you think is reasonable.

Purchasing a car is an exciting decision, even if you are shopping around for used cars. Employing the three tips mentioned in this article to use will help you get not only a great price on your used car, but also help you choose a safe and reliable vehicle and get good comprehensive value on insurance. So rather than thinking about where to start get out there and begin researching used cars today, and don’t forget to haggle.

If you are looking to for cheap cars for sale in New Zealand or looking for great value used cars, then you will love the Genuine Vehicle Imports website. Browse a huge selection of quality used cars for sale.
Check us out at http://www.genuinevehicleimports.co.nz/

Original article

If you are having troubles going to and fro various locations because you do not have a car, and unfortunately you are stuck in a difficult financial situation, you can still get yourself a good and reliable vehicle for just under $5,000. These are three of the most dependable automobiles that you can get without completely emptying out your pockets.

For those looking for a transportation that is suitable for families to use, then the Toyota Camry comes highly recommended. The specific models you are looking for are the ones manufactured between the years of 1998 and 2001. The average market price of this respectable family sedan is $2,714 and can take you and your family as far as 21 miles per gallon on city roads, and eight miles more per gallon on the highway. Although the vehicle comes highly approved for its exceptional comfort, sturdy built and comfortable handling, as it is primarily targeted and marketed for families, the Camry is not suitable for aggressive outdoor driving. Breadwinners who like their cars to have a bit of a daring look to them may be a bit disappointed with the boring exterior of this Toyota.

The second used automobile option that can be relied upon to give its driver good performance and quality is the 1994 to 2001 Acura Integra. In its used condition, the average market price of this vehicle is only a very affordable $1,432. With a gallon of fuel, the car can cover a distance of 21 miles on city roads and 29 miles on the highway. The Integra does not only possess a sleek and sporty exterior, but it is also a utilitarian hatchback that can easily accommodate up to four people with its rear seats. Other than that, critics also praise its anti-lock brakes and good steering and road holding.

Lovers of sports car will also rejoice knowing that another great used vehicle for under $5,000 is the 1998 to 2004 Ford Mustang. For only $2,158 the car can go between 16 to 18 miles per gallon of fuel on city roads and 21 to 27 miles on the highway. Sports car and automobile enthusiasts alike will love the power and performance of the Mustang, just like they will adore its classic sporty exterior. However, be remembered that although the Mustang is a very capable sporty vehicle, it is not suitable to be driven in the rain or snow.

The Toyota Camry, Acura Integra and Ford Mustang are three of the best used automobiles that you can purchase for below $5,000.

For more information on used cars, please visit this Website

Original article

“What is my car worth?” is a good question if you are considering selling your vehicle. In fact, this question is critical so that your car will sell more quickly and for the most possible money.

If you are looking to sell your ole’ set of wheels, you will want to know what it is worth. By having this value you will be able to price the car so that it is the perfect price. It would be a mistake to price it too high because then it could take forever to sell your car. On the other hand, if you price the vehicle too low you risk the chance of losing a lot of cold, green cash.

So, to quote Baby Bear of The Three Bears, you want it “just right.”

Fortunately, it is an easy task to determine what your car is worth. With today’s technology, a few clicks of the mouse and a little bit of tapping the keyboard, you can come up with an average price that will help sell your car fast and for the most money.

Begin by using the websites of the NADA guide, the Black Book and the Kelley Blue Book. Each of these websites are user-friendly and will walk you through the process quite easily. All you need to do is answer a series of questions regarding your vehicle, then each website will come up with a price.

The questions they are going to ask is the year, make and model of your vehicle. Next will be the mileage on your car, this is a big factor in determining how much your car is worth. Obviously the lower the mileage the more money your car will be worth.

Next, the sites will ask about the size of your engine and the type of transmission the car has. Then, the sites will ask you to check off some of the added accessories the car, truck or SUV. This will include such things as alloy wheels, a sunroof, the stereo, electric locks and windows, etc. Again, the more added accessories the more money your car could bring you.

Finally, the sites are going to ask the condition of the vehicle. You will rate your car as good, fair or poor. It is imperative that you be honest with this portion of the information because this is another huge factor dependent on the value of your car.

Now that you have these three values you can come up with an average to determine the value of your car before selling. Most people fall in love with their vehicles and think they are worth a lot more than what they actually are.

Insider Tip: The real value of your car is only what someone is willing to pay for it in today’s market place. They Kelley Blue Book may say your car is worthy $20,000 but if the market place is only paying $18,500 for that vehicle, then that is the real value. Remember that the numbers you are getting are only guidelines and averages.

They may not reflect the true value of your car.

When you are asking the question “What is my car worth?” It may be a good idea to double-check your figures by checking the retail car sites to see what other cars like yours are selling for. This will give you the confidence that you have determined the value of the car so that you can set the price.

How did you set the price?

You got it… “just right”.

To learn more about selling your car through a consignment program Click Here now. You’ll be glad you did.

For answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions about consigning your car Click Here

Original article

When you first get that new car off the showroom floor, you are concerned about keeping it in a pristine condition. You park on the back of the parking lot, keep lots of distance between you and the car in front of you, and caution passengers about bumping doors. You even are concerned about food and drink in the car, maybe banning it altogether. The same is true of smoking. Not in your new car, you may order.

The above suggestions are good at keeping your car in showroom condition. However, they won’t entirely be able to do that. There are other things that can cause damage as well. Most new cars have a very impervious finish, but certain things can damage it. Excess exposure to sun, wind, and winter weather can cause a dulling of the finish. Pollen, sap, and seed pods from surrounding trees and plants can not only make it look bad, but can ultimately damage the finish.

One thing that many don’t realize can really mess up the finish is automatic car washes. Even the soft touch, hands free ones can cause very fine, almost microscopic scratches. These may not be very visible, but they do dull the finish somewhat. They also allow environmental factors to penetrate deeper into the finish, causing further damage.

Other, less common things that might damage your new car are theft and vandalism, and animal damage, either from scratches or from prints left by cats walking all over it. These are not really common, but can cause extensive damage, especially from vandalism, which is damage by intent. Dogs jumping on the sides of your car door can leave deep scratches. Though muddy cat prints don’t permanently damage it, they are very unsightly.

Keeping your car garaged any time it is not in use is one way to prevent damage from weather, animals, and vandals. If necessary, you can keep the garage locked and thus prevent access by others. Other damage is not prevented by garaging it, but at least these few dangers are avoided.

It may not be possible to garage your car. Maybe you don’t have access to a garage, but still want to protect it. In that case, you can use one of the car covers. These are fitted vinyl, canvas, or other heavy material covers that fit directly over the car and protect it when not in use. They afford good protection from most dangers and are relatively easy and quick to put on and take off.

You can find a summary of the reasons why you should invest in car covers and visit our online store to view the selection of auto accessories at http://www.thecarcover.com/ now.

Original article

When you are towing a trailer on a road trip, remember that you’ll want to have the proper lighting setup to ensure that the cars around you can see your brake lights or blinkers. This is an often overlooked element of the towing process, which is why it is prudent to understand the options at your disposal when you plan on taking a long trip and want to haul a vehicle or storage trailer behind you. With a variety of wiring kits available, assess what you will be towing, the wiring capabilities that are already integrated into the trailer design, and the price range you are looking at, and you can get the perfect lighting setup without any hassle. To give you the information you need to accurately make a sound decision, we are going to outline the three most common kits you will come across.

Removable Light Kit

Removable kits are perfect for those who have a tow bar, but rarely tow in their travels. Your dinghy will have all of the necessary lighting capabilities: braking lights, turn signals, and running lights. Further, the entire system comes completely wired, and you can move the setup from vehicle to vehicle, giving you quite a bit of flexibility if you are looking to save money and get only a single lighting system for all of your towing needs. Magnets will hold the lights to your trailer or vehicle, and because it is designed to be removable, the system is one of the easiest to install. It is worth noting, however, that you will likely want to secure the wiring to your towbar to prevent the wiring from getting damaged during the trip.

Diode Lighting Setup

If you are a regular tower, you’ll likely want a more permanent solution to your vehicle lighting situation. Diode light systems involve hooking all of the necessary wiring up to your towbar plugs and leaving it there even when you have nothing in tow. Your dinghy will be hardwired to always be safety compliant when in use, and all of the existing lights on your trailer are used. There is a lot of flexibility when using diode light systems, so be sure that you take the time to properly install it. Once completed, you’ll seldom have to worry about it again.

Semi-Permanent Tow Bar Lighting System

If you’re somewhere in between the regular tower and the sparing tower, the semi-permanent lighting solutions are likely exactly what you are looking for. Your trailer has lighting houses that are used for signaling and running lights. However, a setup such as this one integrates into that system without using the actual lights that are on your trailer. You can leave the integrated design in place even when you aren’t towing, so this particular options remains as convenient as the more permanent options we have outlined.

When you are traveling long distances, you’ll likely want to consider having a tow bar installed and bringing a trailer or smaller vehicle along with you. However, you should never overlook the safety impact of towing, which is why it is important to assess the lighting situation of your dinghy. There are a few various installation options that can match up with your towing frequency and budget. Consider what your travel habits will encompass, determine what you will be towing a majority of the time, and select a system that meets all of your needs. Towbars and lighting systems are two of the most important purchases a traveler can make. Make the right choice, and you’ll only be making this purchase once.

Contact our friendly staff at http://speedytowbars.com.au/, the tow bar experts today for all your Brisbane towbar or exhaust needs

Original article

No matter what kind of car you drive, you probably rely on it daily to get you safely where you want to go. Your car gets you through the traffic jams during morning commute, to weekend getaway destinations, to pick up friends and family from all the exciting things they do, and to run errands all over town. Your car is a big part of what keeps your active life running as smoothly as it can.

Because your car is so valuable, you need to treat it like the investment it is. So you need to give the most attention possible to taking care of the vehicle that takes care of you. One of the ways you can invest in the longevity of your car is to give its exterior careful attention. Not only will this keep your car looking its very best, you’ll be able to prevent the routine wear and tear that can turn into severe surface damage later on.

Of all the products available to take care of your car’s exterior, wax is one of the most popular. Interestingly, it may also be one of the most ignored. Not everyone knows about the important role surface wax plays in comprehensive car care. After all, once you wash your car and you don’t see anymore dirt, isn’t that enough? Not quite! You need to take an extra step to make sure that your car’s surface is thoroughly clean and protected.

To get started with your waxing regimen, you will first need to chose the kind of car wax that is right for your vehicle and its unique needs. If you don’t know where to start, ask your friends or family about what they like to use on their cars. You may also want to talk to the experts at your favorite auto supply shop. You’ll be able to find the widest variety of car waxes at auto shops and the people who work there will be able to tell you about the difference between waxes and provide you with recommendations based on your car and driving habits.

Now that you have picked out the wax you want, you’re ready to get started! You will need to begin with a clean car, so take some time to wash it thoroughly. Afterward, take a soft rag and apply a thin layer of wax to the exterior. Rub the wax into the surface until you can’t see it anymore. Apply in a circular motion to ensure the most even coverage possible. Do you notice anything different? At this point you’ll be able to see the sparkling gleam on the area you’ve applied wax to. Compare this place with an area you haven’t put wax on. The difference will be obvious. You will also notice that your rag glides more smoothly across the area that’s already been waxed. This slipperiness is exactly what keeps dirt from sticking to your car. Grit will just slide off, letting your car look its very best.

Waxing your car doesn’t take long to do and the payoff is immediate. Your car is going to gleam and shine just like it did when you bought it new. Another way to keep your car safe is to purchase a car insurance policy. Getting a personalized car insurance quote is essential to keep you and your car safe from all the dangers out on the road.

Cheap Insurance – Find Low Cost Insurance Today! Compare Quotes on Cheap Car Insurance and Save over 500.00 a Year!

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Taking the driving test is something we all hope to do only once in our lives, but sometimes it takes more than one attempt before we pass. Driving lessons are expensive – apart from not getting that precious independence and being able to take to the road on our own, failing means more lessons, and additional cost on top to take the test again.

Choosing the right driving instructor can save you time and money.

Driving instructors are just like everyone else, they all have their own characters and ways of doing things, and sometimes that works for some people, and not for others. If you find you do not like your instructor’s way of teaching, then change your instructor. Just because you started driving with that particular driving school does not mean you can’t change. It’s your money you’re spending after all!

But what can you do to try and get the best school and instructor from the start? Firstly, look at the pass rates that the school or instructor gains. If they have a high number of passes first time then this probably means the standard of teaching is good. A lower pass rate might mean they encourage you to apply for the test before you are ready – or don’t explain well enough that you are not ready to take the test yet. And each time you take the test it is going to cost you.

Recommendations from friends is another way to find a school that might suit you – but remember, your friends might have a different learning style to you, so try to ask them about how he or she teaches, and think whether you’d like that.

Any instructor that you learn with should be a fully qualified ADI (Advanced Driving Instructor), and you can tell this as they will display a green badge on their windscreen. If they are displaying a pink badge then they are a trainee instructor. No person should take payment for giving driving lessons unless they can show you either their pink or green badge.

There are five different skill levels that your instructor will use to teach you to learn to drive, and a good driving instructor will take you through this for each different driving skill you learn. At the first level the skill is introduced (i.e. talked through), and then the teaching should proceed through talking you through what you are doing (reversing for example), through to observing and prompting you when you go wrong. Once you can complete all the driving skills without prompting you are ready for your test.

The right driving instructor for you will have the patience to proceed at the rate you are learning. If the instructor gets impatient it’s time to find a new one. Likewise if you feel you’re not getting enough guidance, or if you find s/he’s not letting you try to do it on your own when you think you are ready. Obviously the first thing to do would be to talk to your instructor and tell them how you like to be taught.

If you are a nervous person then try to find an instructor who will help you gain confidence in your lessons. Many driving schools advertise that they can help nervous drivers. Don’t be afraid of admitting you might need a little more time and support.

Driving lessons are expensive – costs vary from £15 to £25+ an hour, and on average people need 47 hours of professional tuition, and 20 hours of private practice before they are ready to pass their test. Choosing an instructor because they are cheaper is not necessarily the best option, as you may end up having more lessons if the lessons are not up to a good standard.

When choosing an instructor ask if you will have to collect/drop of another learner at the start or end of your lesson. Some driving schools go from one customer to the next, and this can eat into the time that you are paying for. And it is equally as important to make sure that you are getting your full allocated time – a driving instructor who arrives 10 minutes late for a lesson has wasted your money unless the lesson is extended by the same amount of time.

2 hour long lessons are more beneficial than 1 hour lessons, and your instructor should be taking you out in a variety of weather and road types.

You will pass your test quicker if you have a driving instructor who is reliable and punctual, and who you like and get on with – apart from complementing your learning style, a friendly instructor will help you relax. You should also consider whether you would prefer learning with a man or a woman.

Always remember that you are paying, and that you have choice, and if you find you are not getting on with the instructor you have chosen, you can change to another.

Having experienced the pain of a teenager learning to drive, Trish Haill has done research so others can find all the information they need in one place. Read more at http://www.startdriving.net/

Original article

Many people with bad credit try to put off major purchases until they have enough time to improve their credit score. Unfortunately, important needs for transportation often arise now rather than later, so drivers should apply for a bad credit auto loan today. Although people with bad credit feel like they are alone in their situation, they must realize that people in situations like theirs (and worse) regularly qualify for loans. This means no one has to do without a car just because they’ve had financial problems in the past.

Before shopping for a car, all car buyers should follow a few basic principles that can help their car-buying experience go well. First, they should evaluate their financial situation to determine how much they can afford to pay every month for a car. Although they might feel under pressure to buy a car, they should take steps to minimize their liabilities to avoid putting their credit recovery effort in jeopardy. Prospective car buyers should also prepare themselves to resist sales tactics that could trap them into loans with unaffordable monthly payments.

Before setting out to get a bad credit car loan, shoppers should make sure they have important details in order. For starters, shoppers should make sure they have a phone in their name and proof of income. Most lenders don’t want to risk issuing a loan for someone they cannot contact or who cannot make loan payments. Employment history is another important plus for the person who wants to buy a car. Many lenders want to know that an applicant has been at the same job for at least a year before they will consider approving a loan.

Bad credit auto buyers often need to have a hefty down payment to qualify for a loan. This could be a deal breaker for many potential buyers. Some lenders could require thousands of dollars down, but others might only require hundreds. Those who are asked to pay several thousand dollars down should probably consider buying a car for cash rather than getting themselves involved in a loan. A decent used car can be found for as low a couple thousand dollars. There are a number of used car listing sites on the internet. A simple Google search, e.g., “used 2005 BMW 325″, will yield several of these sites.

If obtaining credit is still a problem, then would-be buyers should consider asking a friend or relative to cosign on the loan for them at the bank or credit union. Of course, this only works if the cosigner has very good credit. Buyers and their cosigners should make sure they are aware of the risks involved if the buyer fails to make required payments because cosigners often end up as losers in these types of arrangements.

The important thing for car buyers with bad credit to know is that bad credit loans are available to them. All they have to do is shop around to get the best possible terms and a car that meets their needs.

Original article

The car engine computers are often damaged and have to be replaced when the engine is water logged. This is a very painful process as repairs are often delayed because replacements are hard to find. In most cases, you will have to find these spares in the automotive aftermarket where there is no guarantee for quality. The problems which might arise from these inferior parts could range from sensors which check the engine and fuel injection timings.

The best thing, of course, would be to get a new replacement for the engine computer. However, the difficulty is, it is rather hard to get the right engine computer to suit cars which were manufactured a decade ago. Most car manufacturers do not stock the older models of engine computers when newer car models are released into the market.

Engine computers for cars are similar to other computers and are mainly assembly line products which ensure quality and are all identical. These computers normally outlive the vehicle and are built to last unless damaged by water.

The good news is that cars are being recycled these days and second hand engine computers are easy to find at not too steep a price. The new trend of people actually repairing cars instead of replacing them bodes well for those who are looking for good reliable spares for their cars. The cars which were earlier being consigned to the scrap heap are being stripped down and the parts which can be used again are reused. So, if you are on the lookout for a particular part, you might just get lucky.

The parts which have been salvaged from used cars are not to be confused with the aftermarket spares. The first lot is compatible as opposed to the aftermarket parts which at best, almost fit. Most of the parts from the aftermarket have been manufactured without the engineering blueprints- mostly these parts are products of reverse engineering from samples. This is the main reason why these parts may not be compatible.

Nowadays, all cars come with at least one engine computer. There are a number of sensors such as the ones for oxygen, throttle position, air pressure, engine temperature and so on which feed information into the computer.

The information will help the computer manage the everyday running of the car such as the spark plug, fuel injection, idle speed. The computer helps the performance of the vehicle and also keeps emissions under control. The computer also alerts the driver when something in the engine is not okay.

Besides the engine computer, cars have other computers such as the one for control of the automatic transmission; some cars have smart seats and mirrors which can remember settings while most systems such as the cruise control, air bags are also controlled by computers. Cars which can be opened without keys also have computers controlling the security systems. Computers are often found in the advanced climate control systems.

Well, if you do need to replace the engine computer, best to scout around for a used one.

Thank you for reading this article. For loads of more information on the engine computer please visit our website.

Original article

John Deere is one of the most recognized brands worldwide for tractor products that are proven to be of high quality and useful most especially to the farming sector. Its popularity is also boosted by the fact that this brand offers many options and configurations that meet specific applications and this helps buyers make the most appropriate decision – on which type is the most ideal for their needs.

The 2000, 3000, and 4000 tractor series (with horsepower ranging from 24 to 60 HP) showcase 15 different models and configurations for clients who wish to get a compact utility tractor that has the power to achieve an increased productivity. Below are some of new tractor series you might want to check out for your specific needs:

John Deere 2000 Series Tractors - are engineered for clients who want the power and productivity of a compact utility tractor but are value oriented and price-conscious. Available models include:
2320 – with 24.1 HP engine; 3,000 rated speed, RPM; and with lift capacity of 1,150 lb2520 – with 26.4 HP engine; 2,600 rated speed, RPM; and lift capacity of 1250 lb2720 – with 31.4 HP engine; 2,500 rated speed, RPM; and with lift capacity of 1250 lb

John Deere 3000 Series Tractors- are designed for clients who need the size and power of a compact utility tractor. John Deere models under the 3000 series are ideal for the rancher or farmer clients who want an economically priced tractor, loader, and rotary cutter package. Available models include:
3005 – with 23.5 PTO HP-Gear; with lift capacity of 815 lb3032E and 3038E – offers simple operation, reliability, and durability clients expect from this manufacturer; with 25 PTO HP-Hydro and lift capacity of 3,156 lb3320, 3520, and 3720 – with 25, 30, 35 PTO HP-Hydro respectively; with life capacity of 2,200 lb.

John Deere 4000 Series Tractors- this particular tractor series include the following models:
4005 – is ideal for farmer clients who want to have an economically priced tractor, loader, and rotary cutter package. This model can tackle heavier jobs such as loader and backhoe operations.
4105 – this compact utility tractor provides budget-conscious clients an economically priced model with the convenience and usability of a hydrostatic transmission. This series is the augmentation of John Deere’s popular standard tractors such as 2305, 3005, 4005.
4120, 4320, 4520, and 4720 – offer clients a high-quality, cost-efficient, and productive tractors in the large chassis compact utility tractor market. All models under this series have 4-wheel drive in base equipment. These models are flexible and can be matched with a variety of implements to meet the growing market demand.

Mak Camusuvski is an Internet enthusiast who wants to share some ideas about vineyard equipment and utility vehicles. These include topics like john deere new tractor series. For more about this, visit: http://turfandindustrial.com/..

Original article

If you spend enough time around anyone who owns a classic/vintage car (whether as an enthusiast, or due to the fact that you own one or two yourself), they will undoubtedly begin to talk about their passion for the hobby of collecting, restoring, and showcasing these vehicles. They will explain how they pour their time, their money, and even themselves, in a metaphorical sense, into making these vehicles the best they can be. It’s a point of pride for them to do this, in addition to being a hobby and something they enjoy.

In this unending quest to get their classic or vintage vehicles looking and operating as if they’d just come out of the showroom, many owners and collectors will spend untold hours and thousands – sometimes tens of thousands – of dollars restoring the engine, the upholstery and interior, the body, the suspension, and all the other things that contribute to making these vehicles look, sound, and drive like new. However, there is one thing that a lot of them overlook, or address in an improper way: The tires/wheels!

Much like a person’s shoes, the wheels of a vehicle are usually overlooked. They go unnoticed because they aren’t flashy or eye-catching, but even so, they’re very important, and should be a part of one’s overall restoration plan. As many owner-collectors will tell you, the majority of classic/vintage vehicles are given wire wheels. They’re easier to find, less expensive (sometimes), and generally less of a hassle. This, however, isn’t always the best option to take. In fact, one of the easiest ways to make your classic/vintage vehicle look, sound, and drive better than ever is to replace these wire wheels with period alloy wheels instead.

Period alloy wheels are just what they sound like: Alloy wheels designed for and around classic, vintage, and/or collectible vehicles. You may not find the distinction to be all that important at first, but think about it for a second, and you’ll see how wrong you are! Simply put, period alloy wheels, being purpose-built for vehicles of a bygone age, LOOK like they belong underneath these classic vehicles, which is in sharp contrast to the more “blinged out” chrome wire sets. In fact, period alloy wheels add an air of continuity, clean aesthetics, and even increased performance! Think about this: When you last drove your favorite collector vehicle, did you hear a rattling sound, or have some other performance issue? Did you chalk it up to simple age, and move on? If so, don’t! There’s something you can do about it. Just use period alloy wheels! Not only will your vehicle look worlds better, but it’ll run better, too.

Now, at this point, you may be thinking that these wheels are hard to find, or hard to install (especially if you have to swap out your existing wheels), or simply wouldn’t look like they belong on certain classic/vintage makes/models of vehicle. Nothing could be further from the truth. First, the Internet makes finding companies that specialize in period alloy wheels a snap. Some dealerships will even swap out wire wheels for their period alloy counterparts, and at no charge! All you need to do is ask. Also, you can then sell those wire wheels on eBay, if you’re into that sort of thing. Secondly, even if the dealer can’t or won’t install your new period alloy wheels for you, doing it yourself is a breeze! Simply un-bolt your existing wheels, and re-bolt your new period alloy wheels onto your vehicle. It’s true that not all wheels are so easily installed, which is why Minilites are the absolute best choice in period alloy wheels – they look good, and they’re easy to work with. As for whether such wheels are a good fit for sportier models (think Jaguar), simply look for racing wheels, particularly D-Types. You really can make this work!

Hopefully by now you can see the advantages of using period alloy wheels in favor of chrome / painted wire ones. Don’t take our word for it, though… try it for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

Contact us for more information related to alloy wheels UK and Audi wheels.

Original article

If you own a car it is extremely important that you prepare your car for the winter, though how much you winterize your car can depend on your car and where you live and travel. Someone who owns a convertible in a sunny area like San Diego will have to do the most basic of winterizing, if any. If you live somewhere that does not experience a lot of harsh winter weather, it is a good idea to go over your car and make sure all of the fluids are in check before the weather changes, if it does at all. Make sure you have extra bottles of oil, antifreeze, etc., and any necessary emergency kits in your trunk.

On the other hand, someone who owns a two-wheel drive car and lives in the mountains will have to seriously think about what they have to do to prepare their car for snowy and icy roads. If you live somewhere that gets a lot of snow in the winter it is a good idea to consider what you need to do to be prepared to drive through a blizzard, wind storm, or on an icy road.

If you have a two wheel drive car and you need to drive though harsh winter storms and on icy roads it is a good idea to replace your tires with good winter tires. They may cost more, but if your car is not a four-wheel drive vehicle a good set of winter tires can be worth the extra investment. They will provide better traction in wet driving conditions and they have some shallow tread so moisture can escape the tire easily. Some snow tires have studs in them so they have better grip and traction on packed ice and snow, but since they can damage clear roads you should check if they are legal in your area if you are interested in them for your car.

It may be a good idea for you to also look at tire chains so you can have them if necessary. Tire chains, or snow chains, are required by law to be on tires in certain areas when driving on the freeways in the winter, so if you travel often year round it is a very good idea to keep a set of tire chains in your trunk. You cannot expect a lot of speed or better gas mileage with snow chains but they are a great form of car insurance and can be necessary to keeping you and your car as safe as possible in winter weather. It is also a good idea to keep a good winter emergency kit in your trunk so you can stay warm if your car breaks down or if an accident or collision occurs.

If you are shopping for winter tires or chains you should look at different tire places and compare the different tires and chains available before you purchase some. Winter tires and snow chains can cost you extra money but with adequate research and comparison shopping you should be able to find the best chains and tires for your budget and the safest chains and tires for you.

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We are all aware of the hype of social media and particularly Facebook. You as a dealership might even have you own Facebook page. However, a car dealership is not a coffee shop, a restaurant or a retail store. The average consumer’s frequency of engagement is low compared to other retail businesses. This presents a problem for Facebook for car dealers. No matter what you put on your Facebook page the customer that brought a car from you last month is not naturally going to want to be your fan regardless of the deal he got or how much he loves his new car.

There are plenty of businesses including dealers who’ve created huge Facebook followings via promotions and give-aways. Although this might get people to ‘like’ your page, where do these people go when the promotions are over? Since the nature of interactions between the car dealer and the Facebook fan doesn’t allow for constant compelling deals like a coffee shop might, the true value of fans gathered in this manner is diminished for dealers.

So, you might now be thinking “well why should I bother with Facebook”? If you use Facebook in the right way there are ways you can generate traffic to your website and play a significant part dealerships online marketing strategy.

Pay attention to the pointers below.

1) Make it easy to find information about your location and web address on you Facebook page. Make sure you include Active hyperlinks that point to your website pages.

2) Build your network legitimately by providing a business card to sold and serviced customers asking them to like you on Facebook including your Facebook account information. If they chose to become your fan via this avenue you know you have a chance to drive more website traffic from legitimate quality interactions

3) Publish content that can maintain a relationship with your customers after their purchase. For example, if your dealership offers various after care services make sure your customers are aware of this through status updates and other posts.

4) Make your stock, searchable through Facebook. Make it easy for returning customers to find what they want and give them a reason to keep you on their Facebook by providing a tab on your page that allows the user to search the make, model of the car they are after. On this tab, provide links to your website for the customer to get extra information on their search results.

5) Create a landing page that will encourage visitors to ‘like’ you. This is the page that new visitors will automatically be taken to when first visiting your page. This landing page has to include either a video, or a graphic that is attention grabbing and will draw the viewer in. This also has to contain a brief but clear description of your dealership. On this page you can also include links to your website and other social media pages you have.

Zype TV are the leaders in Automotive Video Marketing and regularly post content regarding how Automotive Dealers can use the internet in order to generate success at their dealership. Visit and Subscribe to the blog in order to keep up to date with the latest Digital Marketing Strategies from the Automotive Industry.

Original article

We’re all being encouraged to ‘go green’ at the moment, in all areas of our lives -from recycling our waste to driving fuel efficient cars that cut down on harmful CO2 emissions. Logic would dictate that the cars that offer the best fuel economy would be the smallest – light and nimble city-focused vehicles. For families, who need as much space as possible to accommodate their brood, it may seem that their options in the green car market are limited. However, there are a number of environmentally-friendly cars that don’t skimp on space but are still impressively eco-conscious.

Take a look at my list of five of the best fuel efficient cars for families – I’m sure you’ll ‘go green’ with environmental envy:

Toyota Prius – The Prius was the first hybrid car to be put into mass production. Over the years it has been improved on several occasions, and this constant revision means that the Prius has consistently remained one of the most fuel efficient cars on the market. Its engine capacity has been improved, and it now generates 134 horsepower (with the power from the electric motor included), compared to the previous model’s 110 horsepower. Its components have also been made lighter and it has been made more aerodynamic.

Peugeot 508 – Although it isn’t a hybrid car, the Peugeot 508 boasts one of the most impressive fuel efficiency ratings around. It was also the first non-hybrid, non-electric car to achieve a carbon emissions rating lower than 110 g per kilometre. It doesn’t sacrifice power for economy, either – it is fitted with a 2.2 litre turbodiesel engine. The car also boasts a very good safety rating – always an important consideration for families – and achieved a score of five out of five from the European New Car Assessment Programme.

Hyundai i40 – Available in estate and sedan versions, the Hyundai i40 is an impressively spacious vehicle that also ranks as one of the most fuel efficient cars of its type. It boasts a boot space of 553 litres, and with the rear seats folded down, this increases to 1,719 litres. Like the Peugeot 508, it also scores five out of five on the European New Car Assessment Programme safety tests. In terms of carbon emissions, the i40 releases a lightweight 113 g per kilometre, all the while operating on 114 brake horsepower.

Ford Mondeo – This car has been around since 1993, and has been a favourite with families ever since it was launched. It is the latest version, however, that really impresses in its balance of fuel efficiency and family-friendly spaciousness.

Volkswagen Passat – Volkswagen’s entry into this line-up of fuel efficient cars for families has been in production – in various forms – for even longer than the Ford Mondeo. The latest model was launched in 2005, and has numerous benefits for families, such as excellent handling and massive amounts of boot space. Add to this list its excellent carbon emissions rating of 114g per kilogram, and you have a great all-rounder that’ll keep your family safe and your purse secured.

Fuel efficient cars now come in all shapes and sizes. Offering practical solutions for those searching for family cars, MPVs, a 7 seater or compact city cars.

Original article

If I ask you what car held the world’s top speed production car record in the 90s, most of you would answer the McLaren F1. If I would then ask what is the top speed production car record for the 2000s, most of you would answer the Bugatti Veyron and Veyron Super Sport. But what most of you don’t know, is that there is a small Swedish company, no – not IKEA, that briefly held that record as it transitioned from the F1 to the Veyron: the Koenigsegg CCR.

The CCR, an enhanced, face-lifted version of the original CC8S, grabbed the top speed world record from McLaren in 2005 but it’s fame was short-lived as only two months later Bugatti triumphed over both McLaren and Koenigsegg. In terms of ranking first place down that means that the Koenigsegg is a lesser car than the Bugatti, at least in terms of top speed, but this isn’t a discussion about the world’s highest top speed, this is an overview of the engineering ingenuity, automotive enthusiasm and sheer passion that has led to the creation of one of the best hypercars on this planet.

The CCR is a ripened version of the original Koenigsegg CC8S that was produced from 2002 to 2004 with only six versions made. In 2004, at the Geneva Auto Show, Koenigsegg revealed the CCR which is essentially a face-lifted, lypo-suctioned, version 2.0 of the CC8S. The major features remained the same such as the engine, body and chassis but enhancements were made throughout to yield a significant overall improvement.

A larger front splitter was added to improve downforce, headlight arrangement was tweaked and the rear-end was revised. Larger tires with wheels were added along with bigger brakes and better suspension. The resulting body changes actually led to a relatively immaterial increase in the car’s weight from the CC8S’s 1,175 kg (2,590 lbs) to the CCR’s 1,180 kg (2,601 lbs). The honeycomb kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber semi-monocoque body structure remains unchanged.

The engine remained the same, a rear mid-engine 4.7 liter V8 paired to a 6-speed manual transmission. The output; however, did not remain the same as the CCR pushes out 795 horsepower at 6,900 RPM and 680 lb-ft of torque at 5,700 RPM due to the addition of another supercharger. The Twin Rotex superchargers increased output for the CCR by 140 horsepower and 130 lb-ft torque over the CC8S. As a result, the CCR is able to go from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and on to a claimed top speed of 245 mph, although the actual world record that Koenigsegg set was at 241.01 mph in 2005, only to be trumped by the Veyron’s 253.81 mph record.

World record or not, this car wasn’t made to put trophies on a shelf. This car was purpose-built by Koenigsegg to scare your exceedingly boring great-grandmother out of her grave, and with this leaned out and improved build over the CC8S, there are 14 very angry zombie great-grandmothers out there.

Carnecks’ Mission is to be an online car review source which strives to provide quality car reviews, entertaining videos, and reliable information. CarNecks Vision is to be the best entertaining car information service provider. Visit http://www.carnecks.com/ for more articles with videos and pictures

Original article

Start Learning

Transportation design courses are relatively rare among schools that teach industrial design, but those classes are exactly where a would-be car designer should start. Considering there are less than two-dozen transportation design schools in the world and that many people aspire careers as car designers, the car design field is very crowded and competitive. In fact, many schools won’t consider an applicant who does not already have a design portfolio, so some people are ruled out of consideration almost right away.

Choosing a Transportation Design Course

Schools that teach transportation design are scattered around the globe. The most sensible first-choices for an applicant are the schools that are closest to home. However, a careful examination of a school’s reputation might make other options worthy of consideration. Faculty and educational philosophies can also play a part in choosing a transportation design course. Therefore, international study might be necessary.

Some of the most sought-after car design courses are given at schools located near automotive companies. These often have a close tie with the industry and good relations with the nearby automaker. In fact, some of these schools offer apprenticeships and mentoring programs that help students gain firsthand experience in the automotive industry.

Schools that offer car design courses can vary as to how much they emphasize engineering skills versus modeling skills, so prospective students should weigh that information with their own preferences. They also vary as to the amount of equipment available in academic design studios and how often students can access those studios.

Many schools appear at college and career shows, giving prospective students a chance to meet current students and learn more about available programs. Therefore, attending one of these shows is recommended before a student makes any final decisions.

Qualifications

Car design courses require that applicants have talent before even being considered for acceptance. This means that a prospective student must have demonstrable drawing skills and work samples to prove they have a certain amount of ability.

Schools generally want to select applicants with high school design and art experience under their belt as well as solid credentials in mathematics and physics. High school writing credits are also a plus because car designers must have the ability to communicate well on paper. Foreign language experience is also a plus, seeing that the auto industry is globally intertwined. Many graduates will find that their first job after graduation is in a country that speaks a different language.

Length of Study

Students should expect to spend three or four years studying for their undergraduate degree in transportation design. They usually study industrial design for a year before branching out into their specialized courses of study. Advanced degrees are available, which may offer a higher starting salary and greater job security, but not necessarily a better chance for landing a job as a automotive designer.

Original article

Driving safety continues to be an important issue being examined by legislators and citizens alike. The 2012 Roadmap to State Highway Safety Laws shows the many gaps in traffic safety laws across the country. This report used a group of laws to evaluate states, most of which encompassed motorcycle helmet, booster seat, and seat belt measures, as well as limitations and requirements for young drivers, texting bans and stricter impaired driving laws.

Many states passed new driver laws for the new year that relate to these areas.

Cell Phone Use

30 states have already banned or restricted drivers’ cell phone use in some way, with more continuing to do so.
Effective January 1st, 2012, texting while driving is declared illegal in North Dakota and Nevada.Oregon closed a loophole in a law that enabled drivers to use hand-held devices in work-related situations. Cell phone use is now completely banned.

Safety Measures
Children under the age of eight in California are now required to use booster seats. The previous age ceiling was six. This law came into effect with increased protection as the driving force – booster seats increase the chance of surviving a crash by 45 percent for children in this age range.Illinois passed legislation that now requires adult passengers in the backseat to wear a safety belt. Previously, adults in the front seat and children in the front or back were required to. Fines will be given to those not wearing a seatbelt in the backseat.

Drunk Driving

Drunk driving costs the U.S. over $132 billion per year. Related laws continue to be adopted by more and more states.
Tougher drunk driving laws have been enacted in Nebraska. Those convicted must have their licensed revoked or have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle.

With most states already having some drinking and driving legislation, many are now working to enact tougher legislation and close loopholes in existing laws.

Teen Driving
In North Carolina, stricter laws have been enacted that require teen drivers to turn in a record of their driving time in order to obtain their learner’s permits. After this point, they must produce 60 hours of supervised driving documentation. From there, they are able to get a limited license. They then must complete 12 more hours over the following six months to obtain their full license. These types of measures are similar to what many states have instituted, called the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL).

Additional Laws
Another Illinois law that came into effect January 1stallows motorcyclists to proceed through red lights after waiting two minutes and checking to make sure they can cross safely. This was created due to motorcycles’ weight not activating traffic lights that use ground sensors. Also in Illinois, trackers are now prohibited from using their cell phones without hands-free headsets.

Motor vehicle crashes cost society $230 billion annually. Many of the causes of these crashes are preventable. By being aware of the laws and legislation, as well as safety suggestions and precautions, we can all help reduce the number of accidents.

Original article

Most people with a car that is valuable to them use every way to keep it protected. The amount of money you may spend for this protection can vary. Covering your car is included in this kind of care. Whether you use a cover that cost $50 or one that is worth $400, taking care of it in the right way will help you to have the protection it offers for longer.

Vehicle owners using a cover should know that when dirt particles get trapped underneath the material, the same damage can be done to the paint as if there was no protection. Being sure you keep the material free from dust and dirt is important. Check with manufacturing instructions about the care of the material used in making your cover.

While uncovering a vehicle that is parked outdoors, remember to never lay the material on the ground. While you may think placing it on a grassy area is harmless, the particles that can collect on it can cause visible damage on the finish of a vehicle. Always take the time to fold it correctly and put it into a plastic bag for avoiding dirt and grime.

Some covers can be washed in an washing machine that does not have an agitator. Placing one in the machine with an agitator can cause tears. If you do not have a larger machine at your home, you can most likely find one at laundry mat. You can use soaps recommended for clothing. However, be careful not to overdo it.

Placing washed covers into a large commercial dryer is best. Toss on no heat cycle and be sure to fold it correctly when you get it out. Avoid hanging covers over a line outdoors to prevent the collection of small dirt particles on from the wind blowing. Te smallest breeze can move dust and dirt easily.

Minimize the chances of dirt getting underneath the cover while it on your vehicle. Making sure all the loose ends are secured can prevent wind blowing them, exposing parts of the finish while also allowing dirt particles to be blown underneath covered areas as well. You might learn more about a customized fit to prevent this from occurring.

Taking care of the car cover you use for protecting the investment you have in the cover is worth the time you put into it. The money you can get back in the event you sell a car can certainly make the time you invested in its care worthwhile.

You can get tips on how to take care of a car cover and information about a leading manufacturer and supplier of vehicle accessories at http://www.thecarcover.com/ now.

Original article

Some of you have been wondering – with all of the fast-moving development of vehicle technology — how soon until we have remote-controlled vehicles? When are computers going to take the wheel and start driving our vehicles for us?

In the past five years, we’ve seen a tremendous growth of in-car telematics. We’ve also seen phenomenal growth in the use of smartphones. GPS tracking has become a standard in our lives now. The logical next step is the development of autonomous vehicles that have their own onboard computer sophisticated enough to drive a car safely. Then how long will it take for major corporations to “create” super computers that can monitor and control millions of vehicles on the road everyday – vehicles without a driver behind the wheel that can make rational decisions? Will they be sharing the road with human-controlled drivers, or will they have their own private highways?

As we’ve seen, the US Air Force is increasing the use of drone aircraft to carry out bombing missions and intelligence gathering in hostile zones. From a control room at a base in the western United States, a drone pilot can guide a plane on missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, or other trouble areas. This has changed the game when it comes to battlefield ethics.

We can assume that having computer driven vehicles will allow more efficient and safer driving. This assumes that a computer will be polite to other vehicles and make safe decisions. There is a myriad of things that must be determined before computers take to the roads. How do you insure a driverless vehicle? How does a police officer “pull over” a computer? Who has more rights, a human driver or a computer driver?

Somehow every day a driver goes up against tremendous odds with the roads filled with human drivers who can and will make random decisions. There are more than 33,000 deaths annually from traffic accidents and more than 1.2 million injuries. One can assume that the goal of autonomous vehicles is to lower the traffic deaths. Obviously, some human drivers make bad choices – like driving too fast, making improper lane changes, braking poorly, or being inattentive. Somehow we are getting by with this flawed system of drivers using their own choice. Just how do we make this transition to a monitored, controlled driving environment with the “wild card” being a free-thinking human?

There are things to overcome before unmanned cars and trucks share the roads and streets with human-driven vehicles remain. To pioneer this research, we must first send out a team of attorneys. In our world of the future, we must first know who is legally responsible for remote operation of a vehicle. Property and casualty attorneys can make a living suing incompetent and irresponsible drivers that are causing mayhem on the roadways. I can only guess that the lawsuits will increase over software glitches causing an accident, or someone hacking and stealing someone’s autonomous vehicle.

So what seems like a plot for a science fiction movie (“The Attack of the Lincoln Towncar” or “Warp Speed on Route 66″) is apparently turning into science fact. More than ten years ago in 2001, a team in China (working with their military) successfully tested an unmanned drone automobile. In recent experiments they drove an unmanned vehicle more than 175 miles, averaging 54 miles an hour – and this was a military experiment!

Google has successfully tested unmanned vehicles. So far they’ve logged more than 140,000 miles in testing. However, there has been at least one crash – apparently caused a human driving another vehicle that crashed into the unmanned vehicle. And Nevada has become the first state to adopt legislation to allow for unmanned vehicles.

In 2011, Ford Motor Company tested specially equipped vehicles in the United Kingdom that scanned the road ahead for traffic signs and alerted the driver of changing road conditions. Ford has already got adaptive cruise control that can prevent us from crashing into cars that are slowing down ahead of us. They have blind spot indicators to alert us of cars we can’t see. They have rear cross-traffic alerts to warn us of vehicles approaching us from the rear. They have rear view cameras and rear sensors. They have automatic headlights and windshield wipers. Ford’s Sync-equipped cars can call a 911 operator and relay latitude, longitude and elevation as well as open the microphone so the driver can speak directly to the dispatcher. By 2013, Ford will have vehicles that can monitor how a car is staying in its highway lane. It will automatically keep a driver from drifting out of the lane.

So the next step is refining the artificial intelligence to operate the vehicle. And, of course, designing roadways that handle “programmed vehicles.”

So I say this is the Golden Era of Automobile Driving. This is a special time. Sometime in the future we’ll look back on these days and remember being able to drive free. We’ll fondly recall a “spur of the moment trip to the lake.” We’ll be able to tell our grandchildren, ” I remember when we could gas up the car and just drive. We could go anywhere we pleased. Heck, we could even go off road. We could drive across an open field, race through the desert or drive through a park just to have a picnic.” Yep, these are the days!

Vincent Hennigan listens to dozens of vehicle owners every week to hear what works and what doesn’t work with their vehicle technologies. Visit my weblog at http://www.fordtechlane.com/ to check for helpful articles. Leave a question at fordtechlane@gmail.com if you have questions or need assistance.

Original article

When it comes to making your car tyres last longer there are several techniques you can use to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your tyres even if you’ve had cheap tyres fitted onto your vehicle. By taking good care of your tyres you’re going to be able to ensure that you’re getting the most mileage out of them and you won’t have to get them changed as often. Here are several of the best ways to make your tyres last as long as possible.

Checking and Maintaining the Air Pressure

One of the first steps to making your tyres last longer is to make sure that you’re taking proper care of them. Many people neglect to check their tyre’s air pressure and place unnecessary strain on them. Make sure you always check your tyre’s air pressure when they’re cold at least once a month. If they fall below the recommended amount of pressure make sure you fill them as soon as possible. Do be careful of overfilling though as it could lead to a blowout.

Taking the Motorway

Most of the wear and tear on tyres happens during city travel. Frequent stops, turns and changes in acceleration will wear down your tires much faster than driving at a consistent speed on the motorway. When travelling always chose to take the motorway if possible, this can be a big help when trying to extend the life of your tyres.

Good Driving Habits

While most people love to hit the gas as soon as the traffic light changes colour taking it slow is better on your tyres. Quick acceleration, hard breaking and sharp turns can wear down your tyres quickly and drastically reduce their lifespan. Once again it should be mentioned that taking the motorway is a good option to help you avoid these scenarios altogether.

Rotate Your Tires Regularly

Another thing to take into consideration when trying to extend the life of your tyres is to have them rotated regularly. If you don’t rotate your tyres it places all of the wear on one spot and can lead to damage over time. When you rotate them it spreads out the wear evenly and extends the tyre’s life. Be sure to check your vehicle’s manual for instructions on how often you should have your tyres rotated.

Checking the Alignment

When you’re having your vehicles tyres rotated you should also have the alignment checked as well. Improperly aligned tyres cause more wear and tear than usual and can decrease the lifespan. Also have the alignment checked when you’re purchasing new tires of having cheap tyres fitted onto your vehicle.

Spreading the Word

While it is important to take care of your own tyres don’t hesitate to share this information on how to make your tyres last longer with your mates and family members, especially if you ride with them often. Ignoring wear and tear on tyres can not only lead to them having to be replaced earlier than necessary but can also lead to dangerous situations like blowouts. In this scenario saving money and staying safe go hand in hand.

For further information on topics such as having cheap tyres fitted, finding cheap car tyres online and deciding when to replace car tyres, visit Easy Wheels, who are experts in the car industry.

Original article

The government is planning on closing down almost 40 DVLA local offices, with the closures affecting around 1250 job losses. By diverting the business online, a saving of over 28 million pounds could be achieved. The DVLA have over 6000 employees and over 1200 would be directly affected by the closures.

In 2011 alone, the Swansea DVLA local office in Sandringham Park, Llansamlet, Swansea, served thousands of customers and generated over £4.7 million. Most of the customers dealt over the counter at the office, in person, with a DVLA member of staff as they had complex transactions or issues which needed direct contact with a member of staff to resolve the issue. The online services provided by DVLA would not be appropriate to deal with these types of transactions especially like the transfer of private number plates.

Closure of DVLA Local offices will inevitably lead to:

A lack of face to face contact with DVLA staff members.

An impersonal and less efficient service.

Redirection to call centres.

Broken longstanding links with the local motor trade.

A negative impact on services offered to the motor trade.

An increase in lost or stolen documents due to the postal service.

A less secure system

The Roads Ministry said that by arranging all aspects online would make dealing with the DVLA easier and quicker. Theye went on to say that by centralising the facilities would mean that customers could deal with the DVLA online at any time of the day rather than normal during working hours. This would apparently lead to quicker transactions for customers.

It appears that the DVLA’s opinion to switch everything online and introduce office closures is in the best interest of the public, but it will be infuriating if you are unable to speak to a member of DVLA staff to ask a simple question or to check on a transfer of private number plates that are in progress.

At least by dealing with number plate dealers, you can be sure that your transfers are delivered by hand to the DVLA offices around the country and collected in person for posting directly back to you for the time being at least. That way you are able to call the dealer to confirm receipt of the documents and check the status of the transfer. We believe this service is invaluable to customers when dealing with important documentation.

Visit our website at Private Number Plates

The Private Plate Company are among the longest trading private number plate dealers in the country. They can be contacted on 01639 888833 or their website can be viewed at http://www.theprivateplatecompany.co.uk/ where you will find over 30 million private number plates at the best value in the UK.

Original article

The oil in your car’s engine can be compared to blood that pumps around your body. It keeps all the parts working and if it doesn’t work properly there are serious consequences.

Oil lubricates every moving part in your car’s engine and is constantly filtered to keep it clean. As your engine parts move, so microscopic particles of metal get worn away and they are removed from the oil when they pass through the filtration system. Over time the oil filter becomes less effective and clogs up with the minute particles of metal. Eventually the oil can no longer be filtered and so the oil thickens and becomes less effective at lubricating your engine parts. If not replaced, your engine will be damaged, so it’s important that you regularly change your oil and replace the oil the filter in accordance with the time scales set by your car’s manufacturer.

If you were to ask any garage what the cause is of many engine failures, they will tell you that it’s because the oil and oil filter weren’t replaced often enough. If you have your car regularly serviced, then you know that every time the oil and filter will be replaced. However, if you don’t have your car regularly serviced then, even if you don’t do anything else, make sure you change the oil and filter regularly.

It’s a bit of a dirty job, but fairly easy if you have basic mechanical skills and a toolbox. It doesn’t take too long, although it may be necessary to jack up your car, so you can get under it to access the oil drain plug and possibly the oil filter.

Ensure you read through your car’s manual. It will tell you where the drain plug and oil filter are. It will also take you through the steps necessary to replace the oil and change the filter. Check out the type of oil the manufacturer recommends for your car; it’s important you use the correct type. Find out which oil filter you need. If it’s not listed in the manual, then you can find it on the side of the existing oil filter. Alternatively any car parts store will readily give you the correct filter, once you tell them your make and model. When you have the oil and filter nearby then remove the oil filler cap on the top of the engine. This will allow the oil to drain easier. It’s also best if your car’s engine is slightly warm; the engine is thinner and runs easier.

Put a tray under the oil drain plug and loosen the plug with a wrench. Remove the plug and let the oil drain. Remove the oil filter. Depending on how tightly it is fitted and how long it has been there you may be able to remove it by unscrewing it with your hands, otherwise you will need a large oil filter wrench.

Fill the new oil filter with as much oil as possible and then replace it and tighten. Replace the drain plug. Pout the new oil into the engine. Keep checking the oil dipstick to make sure you put in enough oil, but don’t overfill it. Replace the oil filler and you are done.

The website http://www.woodfins.com/ offers guaranteed used auto parts, and click this link for more information about their Cadillac transmissions.

Original article

For gas powered carts, the cables need only be of sufficient size to operate the starter motor, which is only for a few seconds at a time. So that answer is no, the originally installed cables are plenty sufficient in size. For those of us who have the more plentiful, battery powered carts, the answer is somewhat more complicated. The short answer for us is, yes and no, depending upon what we expect from the cart or if modifications to the motor or controller have been made.

If the cart is absolutely bone stock (all original with no upgrades) and is used primarily as originally intended around the local course, the standard 6 AWG (aka 6 gauge or #6) cables are perfectly fine. Wire (cable) size is measured by a standard called American Wire Gauge or AWG and relates to the diameter or cross sectional area of the copper conductor itself. The smaller the AWG number, the larger the diameter, and hence, larger current carrying capacity. For example, a 2 AWG cable is larger than a 4 AWG which is larger than a 6 AWG. Most cart manufacturers use 6 AWG cables. The finest cables we have found so far are made by MaxiLink.com, which are super flexible and made for extreme duty electric vehicle use.

Ok, now for you guys that want better performance, we’ll get a little more technical. The maximum current that will ever go through your cables is when the cart is at rest and you mash the gas pedal to the floor. At that point in time, the controller puts out the max power it is capable of, and the motor experiences what is called “locked rotor” current draw, which can be hundreds of amperes. When the motor is in a stalled state, it requires tremendous energy to get it spinning to the rated RPM. If the motor were to stay in the stalled state (if there was some mechanical restraint that would not allow it to turn) the high current would continue to be absorbed by the motor until it actually burned up the windings. Typically though, the motor begins to spin immediately, and the current drops down to 20 or so amperes within a few milliseconds (on a stock cart). There are four things that limit that maximum current; the resistance of the internal windings of the motor, the current capacity of the battery pack, the controller capacity and the resistance of the battery cables. The Battery Pack and Motor windings are pretty much fixed values. Keep these in mind because we will come back to them.

Aftermarket “high torque” or “high speed” motors installed to increase the carts performance are commonplace these days. Unfortunately, that additional performance requires additional power. The motor is only there to convert electrical energy into kinetic energy (not very efficiently either). High power motors have a lower internal resistance than stock, which in turn draws more current. If you remember from science class, power (in watts) is voltage (E) multiplied by the current (I). Since the voltage cannot go any higher than the battery’s 48volts (or 36volts), the current increases in order to satisfy the power demand of the motor. Unfortunately, this is where the resistance of the battery cables come into play. As the current increases in a conductor, power is lost in the form of heat at a rate of I2R, where R is the cable resistance. In an ideal cable and to transfer max power, the cable resistance (R) should be zero ohms. Unfortunately all cables have some resistance. The cable resistance causes the voltage to drop (E=IR) and results in lost power to the motor. The solution; increase the size of the battery cables (the larger the cable the less the resistance). Of course, the cable diameter can only be increased within reasonable mechanical size limitations, but that is what is required to reap the full benefits of a high power aftermarket motor. Our example used the locked rotor current to explain the worst case effects. They are less drastic at partial throttle, where the current draw is significantly less. If you want to do the drag racing, burnouts, wheelies and such with your cart though, you will need the bigger cables to supply the required massive inrush of current to the motor. Although the resistance of the cables seems tiny (#6 = 0.00047ohms/ft vs. #2 = 0.00015 ohms/ft), the voltage drop is significant when large currents are present, which will reduce performance. So for the high power motor users out there, use large diameter cables and keep them as short as possible. Size will matter to you. Look for other articles by Randy Wade and check out www.digitaloverdrivesystems.com regularly for news, tips and performance products including the new Maxilink Extreme Duty EV cables.

Randy Wade is an Electrical Engineer and Golf Cart Enthusiast. Look for additional articles about golf cart maintenance and performance at http://www.digitaloverdrivesystems.com/

Original article

If you’re a car owner, you know all about the pleasure that comes from diving a car that’s perfectly clean inside and out. But chances are, you don’t get to enjoy this pleasure very frequently. Taking your car through an automatic car wash is easy enough, but getting the inside clean means you have to take it to have it detailed.

Having your car detailed is a great experience but it can come with a big price tag. Once you decide to take the plunge and have your car detailed by the experts, the pristine cleanliness only lasts so long. If only there were a way to keep your car looking like it just came from being detailed without the heavy price tag!

The solution is to do the work yourself. Getting your car’s interior looking just right may take a little practice, but it’s completely within your ability to give your car the attention it deserves without opening your wallet over and over again.

If you really want to give your car a top-to-bottom detail, you’ll probably need to purchase a few cleaning supplies. If you just want to give the interior a little brush-up, you probably have most of what you need right at home.

Here’s some basic items you’ll want to acquire:

Bristled brushes in multiple sizes. These are important for spot-cleaning vinyl and fabric seats and for brushing out debris from small, hard-to-reach spaces. Chose brushes of different sizes and shapes in order to give yourself maximum cleaning potential.

Surface cleaning for vinyl and/or fabric. Basic multipurpose household cleaners may be sufficient for most vinyl surfaces, but you may need to purchase a cleaner meant for your fabric seats. Check the labels carefully before buying, and remember that leather seats need specialized cleaning products.

Carpet cleaner. You can clean your carpeted surface in a couple different ways. You can use spray-on foam cleaners that you scrub into the surface and then vacuum. For larger surfaces, you may wish to rent a steam cleaner for the deepest clean possible.

Vinyl protector. These products clean and condition the vinyl surfaces in your car. These can include handle surfaces inside the door, arm rests, dashboards, and elements near the floor. Keeping your these surfaces conditioned helps prevent cracking.

Car wax. For keeping the exterior of your car looking as good as the interior, you’ll want a can of wax. Simply rub on a thin coating onto the surface for a glittering shine that makes the surface look like new.

You probably already have the following items:

A vacuum. Use the hose attachment to get deep into the seats and beneath the floor mats. Don’t forget to go over window sills and up against the windshield!

Window cleaner. Use this on the inside and outside of all the windows to make sure every smudge is gone. Make sure to wipe down the mirrors, too!

Air freshener. Giving the interior a fresh, clean scent is the final touch that brings your detailing experience to a close.

Doing a thorough detailing on your car’s interior takes some time and may take a small monetary investment. The results are more than worth it, though.

Another way to keep your car looking great is to have a car insurance policy. If your car is damaged in an accident, car insurance will help fix the damage and have you driving again in no time.

Cheap Insurance – Find Low Cost Insurance Today! Compare Quotes on Cheap Car Insurance and Save over 500.00 a Year!

Original article

In today’s modern and fast-paced world automobiles become a basic requirement of life. These automobiles are second most important thing after having a house. Because of this, everyone tries to take care of his or her automobile. These things become more important when you transport your vehicle from one place to another. Like your other valued items, vehicles also require maximum protection and care when you move to another location. Safety is most important element for your care during transit. There are a number of companies who provide you different car transport services.

You just have to visit the company’s website to get know how about their services. These car transporters may quote you different rates and services according to your needs. Transporting cars is something that many people may fear at first. After all, it is not every day that you will hand your keys over to a perfect stranger. This is why it is essential to do your homework and become familiar with the services and find the one that works best for you.

Car transporters will use a variety of factors when it comes to determining the final cost of transporting cars. Vehicle transport services generally come with one of two main options for the transportation. These are shipping your car in an enclosed trailer of having your vehicle transported on an open flat bed. An enclosed trailer will help to protect your car from any weather elements such as rain, sleet or snow but this method will also be a little more expensive. Open car transportation is the most feasible option.

When looking around at different companies always keep in mind that while the price is important it should never be the only deciding factor. Being able to trust the company and know that your car is in your good hands will give you the peace of mind that you need. Today, there are many different transporters available so be wise and do your homework. Spend a little time reading reviews and understanding who you will be doing business with. Car transportation has made our lives a little less hectic.

Whether you are looking for affordable car shipping rates, or whether you are trying to figure out a way to get your RV or boat transported, be sure to look for a company that will help assist you for all of your car shipping needs, and who will provide some of the most competitive car shipping rates that the industry has to offer.

If you are looking for great car shipping rates from a reliable car transporters then please click on the links.

Original article

Catching the Drift?

…Now everyone knows that the drifters of this world tend not to move that quickly. They were pretty slow when walking to school; they were slow at responding to questions…they even picked their noses slowly. So what does that title mean, ‘drifting on at high speeds’?

Well if all truth be known, we’re talking about a sport that is growing at a phenomenal rate…Drifting. A motorsport that is often thought of as a bunch of smoking tyres in a car park near you.

In fact, this is not so much the case anymore. Events like The British Drift Championship in the UK attract huge crowds and make for a great day out for all the family. They have 6 races that make up the championship so seeing them all is not really practical but catching them at a location close to you for one or two might not be too difficult.

A Drifting History Lesson

UK

The first documented account of drifting dates back to the 1930s when a driver who was trying to sell a lot of sports cars (the Auto Union D-Type racing car), purposefully put his car into a sliding drift whilst navigating a corner. The surviving footage clearly shows the driver putting styling his driving similar to the grand prix drivers of the day.

Japan

Through the 70s it was big in Japan and a few racing and boy racing drivers featured heavily in the popularity stakes, making it a well followed sport.

Outside of Japan

Believe it or not, one of the earliest OFFICIAL drift events outside of Japan was recorded as late as 1993, held at Willowsprings raceway in California. The Japanese magazine ‘Option’ and its editors came and hosted the event, which proved a massive success and has since exploded in popularity.

Drifting – the Science

Officially, one is ‘drifting’ when half way through a maths lesson, ones head starts to gently rock back and forth…No, that’s not it. Well it is but… Anyway…Officially, in the motorsport that is drifting, the angle of the rear wheels to the apex of the corner needs to be greater than the angle of the front wheels to the apex of the corner. Roughly speaking, if you’re kinda going sideways around a bend and there’s a lotta smoke coming off your tyres… you’re drifting!

The perfect drift car

Probably due to the heritage of the sport, so many of the cars used for drifting are Japanese. Popular examples are the Mazda RX7, Toyota Altezza and the Toyota Supra. All of these cars are rear wheel drive which is an essential characteristic of any drift car. If you’re front wheel drive and you try to drift you will likely end up in a bush.

Upgrades?

One essential upgrade for any of these cars to be able to drift well is for them to have a diff transplant to make the rear wheels turn at the same (or very similar) speeds and for there to be no give in the clutch. Some simply weld their rear wheel axes’ together which has pretty much the same effect.

Other than the diff, the only other essential upgrade is a good set of stickers. This makes all the difference and gets the girls round your car (joke)! Oh and the roll cage and the hydraulic handbrake and… Yes, there’s a lot of stuff but the feeling you get when you’re sliding sideways round a corner makes you forget about all the receipts!!

Here is an example drift team that you could follow in The British Drift Championship – http://www.acorninsure.co.uk/acorn-motorsport-division/

Original article

Renault India, the French auto maker, offered three different cars in Indian automobile industry. The company has offered Renault Pulse in hatchback segment, Renault Fluence in premium sedan segment and Renault Koleos in sports utility vehicle. Renault in collaboration with Nissan India, the Japanese auto giant, opened up a manufacturing plant in Oragadam near Chennai. The company aims to increase localization and further enhances the production of vehicles at the Manufacturing unit. Last year company revealed its plans of launching five different cars in India by the end of 2012. In step forward company had offered three cars including Pulse hatch and all set to introduce its all new sports utility vehicle-Renault Duster in Indian car market. Here is the list of three Renault cars in India with all details.

Renault Pulse: Renault India had launched its much anticipated small hatchback Pulse at the 11th Indian Auto Expo 2012. Pulse was first unveiled at the occasion of first Indian Grand Prix. Pulse is available only in diesel guise. The two different variants of the hatchback are Renault Pulse RLX and Renault Pulse RXZ. The Base model RLX gets a price tag of Rs. 5.77 lakh and Rs. 6.25 Lakh for the top end RXZ model. Company also offers a unique warranty of 2+2 years or 80,000 kms on Pulse (whatever happens first). The Renault Pulse is powered by the 1.5 L DCi (K9K) diesel engine that develops 64 BHP of top output power at 4000 RPM and pumps out 160 Nm of peak torque at 2000 RPM. Car delivers an extravagant fuel efficiency of 23.8 km per liter.

Renault Fluence: The French auto makers made its entry in sedan segment of the country with the introduction of Renault Fluence. This car is available in both petrol and diesel versions. The two petrol variants comes affixed with a 2.0 L petrol power-mill that generates 101 kw/137 PS of top output power at 6000 RPM and pumps out 190 Nm of top torque at 3700 RPM. The diesel powered Fluence houses a 1461 cc diesel engine that delivers a peak output power of 78 kw/ 106 PS at 4000 RPM and churns out 240 Nm of peak torque at 2000 RPM. The base petrol model of the sedan is tagged at Rs. 12.99 lakh and the diesel Fluence is priced at Rs. 14.40 Lakh.

Renault Koleos: The French automaker also launched its second car Koleos SUV in Indian automobile industry. It is a combination of style and power as its 4×4 variant offer its user to drive it through any of the rugged area. It is only available in diesel guise- the 2.0 L diesel engine that belts out 150 hp of massive output power. The engine is mated with six speed automatic transmission gearbox that accelerates the sporty car to 100 Km/h in just 12.3 seconds.

Want to access Renault Pulse pictures and want to know more updates on Ford Focus log onto Cardekho.com.

Original article

Let me tell you a guilty secret.

I drive a 2003 Mercedes S350.

It’s a big car – in fact there are few bigger on the British roads today. Petrol engine too. I can hear the legions of folk queuing up to ask why on earth I choose to pay about £5,000 a year on fuel when I could pay, well, a heap less if I went diesel, electric, by bike etc. etc. Well here’s my logic – feel free to pick holes.

Price

This is one cheap car! £7K gets a really excellent 2004/5 S Mercedes with a full service history that’s been well looked after. The depreciation is self-evident but the result is a car that has hardly any further to fall depreciation-wise. Mine’s probably worth £3k now I’ve had it for 2 years and it’s lost maybe 3 grand in value during that time and most of that’s down to the mileage. That’s the benefit of going petrol too. The price drop is larger than the potential saving on diesel fuel in many cases. Then there’s the maintenance. The great thing about Mercedes and BMW dealerships is that they charge an arm, a leg and a few other body parts too for servicing and repairs. But that’s great because the engineers they train often see the opportunity to set up on their own. They charge about half of Mercedes dealerships and are just as good and frequently much better. My garage charges me less for a service than a Skoda dealer would if you took your Fabia in. (I know because I’ve looked!)

Reliability

My Car’s done 210,000 hiccup-free miles and I get in it each morning facing a 250 mile day without a moment’s concern. They build these cars as showcases for their brand. They hate the idea of one being seen dead at the roadside. Comfort and ease of driving The first two reasons may sound defensive and self-justifying, but this one is I assume unarguable. I sit on the motorway at ‘motorway speeds’ in my armchair, in silence. The only noise is the premium sound system pumping out some quality tunes, cruise control on, seats heated (or cooled if required), climate control setting the air temperature….what else, lights and wipers being turned on or off as required. This was the world’s best executive car in the mid 2000′s – and it’s not changed in the last few years.

Safety

Listen, if you do large miles it does cross your mind that you may stumble across a sleeping lorry driver or plain stupid 17 year old at the wheel of a Vauxhall Nova intent on showing off to his brain dead chums. Well if they hit me at least I’ll have every safety aid that was available a few years ago, plus 2 tons of steel around me as protection.

Environment

No really! I know that this may be pushing things a bit but hang on – that £5,000 of petrol I’ve bought – how much of that went to the government? The answer is in excess of 2/3rds. Let’s say £3,300. That buys a lot of research into alternative energy sources. What did you say? The government doesn’t spend that much on alternative energy sources? Well yes but if it did I’ve definitely contributed more than my fair share. If they choose to do something more useful with the money that’s fine.

See what I mean – these cars are fab, affordable and make economic sense. Bag one while you can!

http://www.themiddle.co.uk/ is a website dedicated to making the lives of people in their middle years more fun and mainly improving the soundtrack. It’s got articles, music choices that are off the mainstream buit for people who want great music.
The Middle adds content daily and is worth revisiting, if only to read someone who knows what makes for a fun life yet is no longer a teenager.

Original article

The heading may sound trite but it is true. One of the ongoing costs of vehicle ownership is tire usage. Every mile driven lays down some rubber on the pavement and that rubber is going to wear down and need replacing.

Just how frequently, how many miles a set of tires can last depends on a number of factors, many of which are well within the driver’s control;

* Firstly there is the inflation pressure; correct inflation for the load being carried and the distance and speed being traveled is crucial in a tires longevity. Heavy loads, higher speeds and long distance interstate travel requires greater tire pressure than an unladen vehicle driving down the road to the local shops. It is worth your while to ensure that the manufacturer’s recommendations are read and understood.

(Remember that the tire, irrespective of the load above Tare will flex as one drives and this makes the tires and the air inside hot, if the tire is too soft the heat build up is greater and the tires will wear down much faster.

* Appropriate tire for usage; If one is driving off road in sand and muddy conditions often then one will want broad tires with low pressure to increase the footprint. However as soon as these go onto the paved surface tire pressure must be appropriately increased to reduce exceptional wear. (Most regular off road drivers carry a tire compressor or a form of compressed air so they can adjust when moving between the road surfaces) Even so, great as these big broad tires look, if they are hugely over sized their wear will be greater as more chafing occurs while taking corners.

* Wheel alignment and balancing; the effect of a wheel being out of alignment is like constantly rubbing a rasp over the rubber. It just wears away as the wheel is not running true. The same is true of balancing, not only does an unbalanced wheel vibrate the entire car but is puts poor wear patterns on the tire itself.

* Driver habits; similar to being economical on fuel usage a driver who accelerates as fast as he can from every stop or slow down and waits until the last split second before applying brakes will go through tires much faster than a driver who gently accelerates, drives the speed of the traffic, and starts slowing well before the application of brakes becomes vital.

Other factors not in the drivers control is obviously the road surface and the temperatures plus of course the routes driven. Interstates obviously being long fairly straight roads do less damage to tires than windy mountainous roads with lots of twists and turns.

When you are need of Truck Tires, irrespective of whether they are going to be super swamper tires or off road tires then you want to look at who has the best deals and where best to buy truck tires. There are many special offers available and all one has to do is look.

Buying Truck Tires is an absolute necessity and when the time has come tirepackage.com has some special offers.

Original article

Driving instructors undertake significant training and must meet prerequisite standards before they can teach learner drivers. Sadly, much of the training is about the legal requirements, Health & Safety issues and small business management. Unfortunately this leaves the graduated driving instructor applying old driving skills that they have been using in their own driving over the last 20 years. Some of these techniques can be very poor, but may pass the scrutiny of a Practical driving Test. If you have been driving for 20 years and haven’t had too many accidents, then you are not going to be very receptive to someone else telling you that you have poor techniques. If a driving instructor tells you that they had to replace the clutch after just 45k in a new car, you would have to consider the options as to why that may have been. Perhaps the clutch was defective at manufacture.

The new learner driver looks up to the instructor for guidance and sees them as an expert in the art of driving. Let’s be fair about this. There are many very good driving instructors working in driving Schools. Should each instructor in the School teach the exact same techniques? Should the school have a Manual showing how various aspects of driving are to be taught by all instructors? There are many ways to execute a reverse parallel park that would pass in a test. Is one way better than another.

Perhaps an instructor should be open to personal development and look for ways to provide better or alternative teaching strategies for their learner drivers. These open minded instructors can embrace new techniques and help their learner drivers to become the very best they can be on the roads. There may be a need for training to be offered to those willing to open up to new ideas in training our future road users. If we can encourage instructors to adopt new techniques then they will pass those techniques on to their learner drivers.

The biggest hurdle to overcome will be getting driving instructors to open up to personal development. If a few instructors can find the benefits of this training strategy, then it is likely that word will spread and others will follow. Just as learners spread the word about driving instructors, it is hoped that the benefits of having some Standards in a driving School will spread among the best instructors and they will look to make change.

David Bradley – Driving Instructor
The Driver Trainer School was established to provide educational resources for Learner Drivers and personal development for Driver Trainers so we can achieve better outcomes for both groups.
http://www.drivertrainerschool.com.au/

Original article

The construction of the body shell is one of the most important processes in the entire car production cycle, and no exceptions are made for Maserati. The Trident marque has been working with ITCA, an extremely specialized company from Turin, Italy which is in charge of making the Quattroporte and GranTurismo body shells.

Maserati was the first automobile company in the world, through ITCA, equipping its product cycle with a robot for seaming the hood and doors which ultimately minimizes errors and provide better parts shape and geometry at the same time. The seaming robots are welding modified robots that replace the clamps with steel rollers, avoiding the inconvenience of having electrodes during the welding process.

The monocoque for both models is in steel sheets electrically coated in zinc on both sides to assure protection from rusting. To further improve quality, the monocoque is now made from steel sheet bi-coated in zinc for an even more rust resistance. The body shell production cycle takes place in two assembly jig lines, one for welding and the other one for quality control. Assembly jigs are tools used to positioning bodywork parts (such as roof frame, front framework and rear crossbar) and the outer layer to then have either manual or automatic closures. The assembly jig lines have three jigs each, where the outer layer, the C-pillars and the roof panel are welded.

Maserati chassis are typically stiffer and more robust than other manufacturers thanks to its single piece roof with C-pillar welded to rear quarter. CO2 soldering is used all over the car apart from A and C pillars where copper is instead employed. Other manufacturers typically have the spot welds on the roof instead.

Doors, trunk and hood are mounted in the welding production line, where chassis are checked against established gauges on the windscreen, rear window and mirror mounting points. In the quality control line, the bodywork is instead checked for any pockets or imperfections; the welding is tested to make sure it meets all the quality standards under the Initial Customer Perception (ICP) index. The last steps involve the cleaning of the bodies to have eventual metallic residue removed before sending them to the Ferrari Factory in Maranello for the paint finish. The entire paint process lasts four days from the arrival date of the unpainted body shell from ITCA in Turin to the final checks. Several are the manual and automatic stages involved in the paintwork that provide unrivaled quality standards. Temperature and humidity are also constantly monitored to ensure optimum conditions during the overall paint process.

Maserati Silicon Valley provides new and Used Maserati to Silicon Valley’s affluent communities. Discover the Maserati GranTurismo Convertible and the Maserati Cost of the vehicles currently in stock.

Original article

Selling your Private Number Plate? Where do you start? You have a private number plate that you may have bought years ago or maybe inherited from a vehicle that you have bought or it may have been given to you as a gift. How much is it worth? How much should I ask for it? What will it cost me to sell it? How long will it take to sell? These are the most popular questions we are asked on a daily basis. In essence, it is a minefield to those who are not involved on a daily basis, and with that in mind, you could get duped into selling for too little.

Firstly, you will need to ascertain the value of number plate in question. This isn’t rocket science, to coin a phrase. Simply put yourself in the shoes of a buyer. What is a buyer going to do? Well you can be sure they will trawl the web for the cheapest combination of that plate that they can find and then try to buy it that little bit cheaper. So do the same thing. Find plates that are similar to the one you are considering selling and make a note of the prices. Use the list of suggestions below and you will have all the ammunition that you need to get the wheels in motion.

Check what is currently on the market.

See how long similar plates are taking to sell.

Check the prices of similar registration numbers.

See if the registration plate resemble a word/name.

You may have had your private plate valued by other companies and you may find you are receiving conflicting information. This is commonplace within the industry as there is no hard and fast guide value to a number plate. Some will value higher than others for various reasons as mentioned earlier. Experienced brokers will have years of records and data to relate to in order to evaluate a true valuation. The real test is in how long a plate takes to sell. Generally speaking if a plate has been for sale for more than six to nine months there is almost certainly a problem with either the popularity of the letters or the price. Its normally the latter as a dealer valuation will probably include the commission being charged. If the commission is to high it could prevent your registration number being sold. Always ask the number plate dealer concerned what they are likely to retail the number plate for.

Now that you are armed with all this valuable information you can pop your plate for sale amongst the other 34 million plates for sale, but don’t hold your breath.

Original article

If you are facing some transportation woes, but are restricted by a limited budget, do not despair as there are great options for used vehicles under $10,000. Three of these cars are the 2007 Ford Fusion, 2003 Infiniti G35 Sedan and the 2007 Ford Focus.

The 2007 Ford Fusion is one of the best automobiles that financially limited buyers can purchase without breaking their banks. At its used condition, the average market price of the Fusion falls just below 10K at $9, 387. The vehicle can take you 20 miles per gallon of fuel on city roads, and 9 miles more on the highway. One of the most praised aspects of this Ford is its impressive, sleek and distinctive exterior that resembles much of European styling. Other than that, the Fusion’s spacious, comfortable and user friendly interior also received plenty of thumbs up. In addition to the compliments given to its exterior and interior, this vehicle also impressed critics with its exceptional on-road performance. Scoring an above average score for handling and satisfactory acceleration, as well as its good fuel economy, this car is an overall all-rounder.

Another good alternative for buyers on a strict budget is a car under the luxury brand of Nissan, which is the 2003 Infiniti G35 Sedan. The average selling price of a used version is $7,910. In terms of gas mileage, the G35 may not compare to the Fusion at 17 miles per gallon for city and 24 miles on highway, but it does strike the perfect balance between sporty and luxury. With its powerful V6 engine, no wonder automobile enthusiasts will be impressed with its more than acceptable on road handling. Furthermore, this Infiniti receives good word for its spacious and comfortable interior that matches the high quality of Infiniti vehicles.

For those buyers with not only a strict budget, but are looking for a fun ride in an automobile that is great at fuel economy, then the 2007 Ford Focus is a great choice. At an affordable price of $7,004, this small car can take you as far as 24 miles per gallon of fuel on city roads, and an impressive 33 miles per gallon on the highway. Besides critics complimenting it for its good fuel economy and fun driving performance, the car also gets nods of approval for its comfortable riding quality as well as its comfortable driver and passenger seats.

Buyers on a strict budget need not worry about breaking their banks if they want to get a good quality used car. For under $10,000 the 2007 Ford Fusion, 2003 Infiniti G35 Sedan and the 2007 Ford Focus are great alternatives to meet their transportation needs.

For more information on used cars, please visit this Website

Original article

Cars are a huge investment in our lives. Safety of cars is an important task that shouldn’t be overlooked. Latest technology provides with advanced options like transponder keys to keep your car away from burglars. Let’s gather some information about these keys.

Owning a car is a dream for many of us. Once bought, its security is what concerns us the most. A car is to be kept as secure as any other valuable. In the recent years central locking systems have been used in most of the cars due to its convenience and the security it provides.

History of Keyless Entry Systems

Car locks have a history of about 5000 years. From the ancient manual car locking system that used large wooden bolts to the latest technology that provides keyless locks, automobiles have come across many types of car keys and locks. Getting into the history of keyless locking systems, it was Ford Motor Company that introduced a car locking system using keypads where a specific code is to be entered to lock and unlock the doors. A similar locking system was introduced by Nissan Maxima in the 1980′s. In the early 1990′s, Subaru introduced infra-red keyless entry on the Japanese Domestic Market Legacy, installing transmitters in the ignition keys. These are operated by turning the driver’s external door handle a specific number of times to unlock just the driver’s door. Transponder keys are the latest innovation that has helped car owners to protect their cars from being stolen.

What are Transponder Keys?

Transponder keys, also known as chip keys, are automotive ignition keys which have inbuilt signal-emitting circuits. These keys work by a unique set of codes. These electronic keys are similar in their shape. The difference lies in the chip they have.

Benefits of Transponder Keys

While the manual locking system has many security concerns, transponder keys are a relief in terms of convenience and security. Some of the advantages of using chip keys are as follows.

1. Since each key works on a different code, it’s not easy to duplicate transponder keys.

2. It’s easy to use. For instance, you can lock all the doors of the car with a single button rather than unlocking each door separately. If you forget to lock your car and remember it while you’re at a short distance away from the car, you can just turn around and lock it instead of walking to the car and locking it.

Transponder keys have made the manual locking system almost obsolete because of the safety the cars get from the latest technology. Transponder keys have kept the number of stolen cars less over the years. Once the car keys are lost, you may need the help of a good locksmith who has the equipment and knowledge to duplicate transponder keys. Auto keyless entry provides cars with secure locking systems and allows the car owners to be at peace. This technology is being used to lock houses and offices too.

The author of this article is associated with Fob Keyless who is a leading dealer of remote car key in the US.

Original article

Is there anything I can do between services to help protect my car from major breakdowns or mishaps? This is a question I am asked most often by car owners. Car manufacturers usually include a section of little things you can do as a consumer to help maintain your vehicle in the owner’s manual. Unfortunately these manuals aren’t written by Stephen King and are the least bit entertaining and sometimes even overwhelming. Fortunately, there are 5 simple steps you can take to protect your car.

5 Simple Steps to Protect Your Car

Justin Frohnhoefer has spent the last ten years in the automotive service and repair industry in sales, training, and management, including 5 years at automotive service companies such as Goodyear Tire and Service shops. He is very knowledgeable and passionate about cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
Justin Frohnhoefer started Auto Service Security with the mission of educating people about the automotive service and repair industry so they can get the best deal on auto repair. Our goal is to save you time, money, and concern when your vehicle is at your local auto service shop.

For more information visit http://www.autoservicesecurity.com/ or email us at news@autoservicesecurity.com.

Original article

Part of being a responsible car owner is making sure that your car is kept as clean and nice-looking as possible. To do this, most people just take their car through an automated car wash. However, if you want your car to look its very best, consider washing it at home. When you take care of your car at home, you’ll save money and give your car the careful attention it deserves. Taking good care of your car can prolong its life and keep it running – and looking – great for years to come.

Gone are the days of spraying your car with the garden hose. Today, you have home car washing options that your parents and grandparents couldn’t have dreamed of. This means that you can have the cleanest car possible, but you may be intimidated by range of products available. What’s the difference between different wipes? Is one kind of car wax better than another? Are all those sprays and cleaners really necessary? Let’s demystify some of the products you can choose from.

You’ll first want to find a soap that’s specially formulated to be used on vehicles. These soaps have been created with vehicle finishes in mind, so there’s no chance that the paint job or after-market finishes will be damaged during washing. The soap’s packaging may provide some suggestions about the kind of wipes that work best with that particular product. If this is the case, let those suggestions guide your selection.

If there is no suggestion, try to steer clear of paper towels and other paper-based products. No matter how soft a paper towel feels, minute wood particles can scratch sensitive surfaces. Since the paint on your car protects the metal body from developing problems like rust spots, steer clear of paper products. Instead, use an old bath towel, but make sure it’s completely clean. All auto supply stores will carry micro fiber towels. These extra-soft towels are very popular among car enthusiasts. Micro fiber towels are made from very fine artificial fibers; when these fibers are packed densely together, a soft fabric results. These are excellent for all stages of washing a car by hand.

You may find some products at your favorite auto parts store that are meant to be added to the water you use to wash your car. Some consumers swear by these products, other feel they aren’t necessary. If you’re curious, ask the experts at the auto parts store. They’ll be able to tell you what these products do and how to use them. Then you can make an informed decision about whether a water additive is right for you or not.

While you’re at the auto supply store, be sure to buy car wax. Waxing is an important step in washing a car that some people forget. When you add wax to a clean car, you are giving it a protective coat that looks good and helps preserve the car’s exterior. Heat, cold, wind, and rain can gradually erode a car’s paint, which leaves the metal underneath exposed and at risk. Once rust sets in, there’s no turning back. A simple coat of wax will help keep this from happening.

Depending on what vehicle you have, you may want to use some chrome polish. This will help keep bumpers, wheels, fenders, and metallic accessories shiny and bright.

And finally, the thing that’s going to keep your car looking great is car insurance. Without a car insurance policy, you’re left paying for damages caused by an accident all by yourself. Get a car insurance quote today!

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Original article

Everyone has had that problem at one point or another when their car has to go to the shop and you have to pay thousands of dollars or else you won’t have a car. But, at what point should you just trade in your old car for a brand new one? It seems like everyone is having some kind of deal no matter what time of year it is, but that shouldn’t be the only reason that you decide to trade in your car. There are a few things you will want to consider before you decide it’s time for an upgrade.

Money of course is the first thing to consider. When you are thinking about trading in your vehicle, you need to think about your current and future financial situation. Of course you may have enough money to buy a car right now, but will you still be able to keep up with the monthly payments in the years to come? It is hard to plan for something like that, but if you have money in savings, then you should be financially ok for a while if you lose your job or something else happens that may put a strain on your finances. You will also want to look at different financing options. These will be different from dealer to dealer, so finding the right financing for you can make all the difference. Before you go looking for a new car, think about how much you spend on your car currently. This may mean not only your monthly payments, but how much do you pay in repairs and gas. You will also want to shop around for different loans, if you can’t get the amount you need from a lender, you might have to wait a while and try again.

Safety is something that you may also want to think about. If you have an older car, it may not be up to date with today’s safety features. This doesn’t mean that technically anything is wrong with your car; it just means it’s not as safe as a newer model. This can be very important when it comes to starting a new family, or even if you have moved to a new town that seems to have more traffic. There are many new safety features out like having air bags on all sides of the car, even the seat belt, having back up cameras, and even new automated systems to help you in the event that you have a wreck or your car breaks down.

Is your car worth the cost of the repairs that you are making on your current car? Sure, a hundred here and a hundred there may not seem like a lot, but it does add up. If you have an old enough car and have to replace the engine or have to take it to the shop every month, the money you are spending on repairs may be of better use towards buying a new car. There is no sense in wasting your money on a car that will just be in the shop month after month.

Of course if you simply just want a more up to date car that has a lot of new features then upgrading your car could be well worth the money you use on your new car. If you still feel money may be a small issue, you can apply to get a car loan. Also, don’t forget to look at the financing options that dealerships may have to offer for the car of your dreams.

Original article

Most people will agree that texting while driving is unsafe because it distracts the driver from the road. In fact, that is why many states have started outlawing texting while driving, some even putting it on par with drinking and driving. While this particular form of distracted driving seems to be fairly standard, there are other things that distract us as drivers, and many of them can even cause terrible accidents almost regularly. Why is it that texting has been getting so much attention while other forms of distracted driving have been around and been causing accidents for a long time? What kinds of distracted driving are out there and how bad are they?

One very common culprit is music. The car radio has been around for quite a long time, and few people even have to look down to change the station or turn up the volume any more. However, there are other distracting types of behavior that many people rarely consider. For example, it usually takes a bit more thought, and usually some time looking away from the road, in order to put in or switch a CD. Many people may argue that CDs are all but ancient history now, but there is another perpetrator. Phones, iPods, and MP3-players are the most common way to store and play music today, but they can be just as dangerous. Looking at the screen in order to pick a playlist or skip a track inevitably takes a driver’s eyes and mind off of the road.

Food and drink, though somewhat less distracting, can also cause problems. It might be simple enough to take a bite out of a hamburger without looking away from the road, but there is more to the distraction than that. Imagine that a driver has been careful to keep his eyes on the road as he munched his lunch and sipped his soda, but as he is putting his drink back in the cup holder, it tips over and spills all over his lap and the floor. What if, instead, he drops his fries onto the floor at his feet and leans down to try and do some damage control. He would inevitably be distracted from the road by this.

Also, while texting may be very dangerous while driving, what about talking on your cell phone? Is that any less dangerous than texting? Most people would say that it is much less hazardous, but is it truly safe? A driver who is focused on a conversation, whether it be with a friend in the car or a friend on the phone, is not truly focused on what is going on around them. A driver so distracted may not notice a car pulling up alongside them, or may not realize that they are slowly drifting to one side of their lane. In fact, depending on the conversation, drivers can even become angry and reckless on the road because of something that is happening over the phone, which puts everyone in danger.

The fact is that there is more to distracted driving than texting. A safe, careful driver should recognize this and do their best to avoid any type of distraction while on the road. Safe driving is the most reliable type of car insurance, after all.

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Original article

Selecting right garage equipment is often important for residents who own vehicles. If you have a garage and wish to make it more functional, then adding essential tools meant for this place can really help you a lot further. There are some must-have tools which you should consider while trying to make the garage look more functional as well as useful. These tools are now available in different models and brands to meet customer’s requirements and budget.

Vehicle lifts:

These days, you can find different Vehicle lifts in the market. If your garage is equipped with a low ceiling, then buying the low – rise lift can fit this place in the best possible way. There are also Vehicle lifts, which are designed for parking. There is another lift which is required to perform alignment works.

Toolbox with essential garage equipments:

Toolbox is the prime piece of garage equipment. This often helps in managing and keeping the tools in an organized manner when they are not used. In this regard, installing a tool chest which is equipped with built-in shelves or drawers can even help you in a great way to detect the right tools when they are required.

Air compressors:

Making a garage more functional often depends on adding a quality air compressor for this place. Even if you are not going to perform paint work at the garage, having an air compressor can really help you in pumping air into the tires of your vehicles. Now you can have horizontal, vertical and portable air compressors for your garage.

Grease pump, fluid evacuator and brake bleeder:

For a vehicle, different types of fluids are used to keep its functionality up. Coolant oil, transmission fluid and brake oil like fluids are always important for your vehicle, and these fluids should be changed on a regular interval. So, now you can buy and add grease pump, fluid evacuator and brake bleeder like garage equipments for this place. This will help you to change the required fluid on your own. You can even avoid taking your vehicle to the mechanic for doing this small work and paying for it.

Besides the above mentioned tools, you can as well come over many automotive components and devices, which are been used for the multiple purposes. The automotive tools comprise of storage cases, tool trays, engine bags, storage cabinets, and many more. Tools like tie downs are mainly made for securing wheeled vehicle. The wire crimping tools & oil filter cutters are the other major automotive equipments.

Click Garage Equipment For more information.

Original article

One type of emergency that some people do not think about is a breakdown in extreme heat or cold. If you drive in extreme winter weather often you need different emergency materials from someone who drives in a hot desert all year. If you want to be prepared for winter emergencies, or an emergency in extreme heat, you need more than the basic first aid kit of bandages and painkillers.

Make sure that your car or truck has a small shovel in the trunk so you can have a tool other than your hands to dig snow with. If you are ever trapped in a snow bank a portable shovel can be a life saver. Even if your car ends up in a lot of snow, a small shovel is a lot better to work with when trying to get snow from out of your tires than just your hands.

Keep a few very warm blankets in your trunk as well. If your car breaks down or goes off the road in a blizzard you are at a very high risk of hypothermia and even death if you have to wait inside your broken down car long enough. You should also buy a few hand warmers so your fingers can maintain circulation while you wait. Your fingers and toes are extra vulnerable in extreme cold as well, so if you have to wait a long time you should have some hand warmers to place in the toes of your shoes or boots. Some disposable hand warmers in your shoes can save your feet and toes from frostbite while you are waiting in your car or while you are outside trying to shovel your car out from a snow bank.

If you live in the desert or a climate that is very hot for most of the year you will obviously need to consider different emergency materials. Most important in extreme heat is a keeping a good amount of water in your car at all times. Keeping water in your car is important for any car in any climate, really, but if you are in a climate where heat stroke and dehydration are likely to happen it is extremely important that you keep extra in your trunk. Bottled water will not always taste great in a trunk so it may be a good idea to rotate the cases of water, but even water that has been in your car for a long time is better than nothing.

If you live in either extreme cold or extreme heat all year or only some of the year, it may be a good idea to get some good roadside assistance car insurance coverage. Even if you have adequate emergency materials for any situation in any weather, you still may end up waiting and hoping that someone will see you and help or you may have to ask a friend or relative to help you, thus possibly putting them in danger. If you have good roadside assistance coverage they can come and help you much faster than waiting and hoping for a good Samaritan.

It is also a good idea for you to look up if there are any local organizations or Search and Rescue Operations that have a list of recommended emergency materials for your area’s specific weather conditions.

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Hybrid cars use a combination of traditional petrol-power and electric energy. They typically feature a petrol engine and an electric motor, and use sophisticated computer technology to manage the use of these two energy sources to maximise fuel efficiency. Many hybrids are user-configurable, and feature several driving modes which change how much energy the car employs from each source – they can operate purely on petrol power, use different combinations of electric and petrol energy, or operate on electricity alone. When doing away with petrol, hybrids essentially become ZEVs – zero-emission vehicles.

Despite hybrid cars generally being more expensive than traditional vehicles, they can pay dividends in terms of long-term savings – and because they release fewer emissions, they are more environmentally friendly as well. Better fuel economy means less petrol stops, saving you money and saving you the frustration of long queues at the petrol station.

The secret behind this improved efficiency lies in the batteries that hybrid cars use. Generally, a hybrid will recharge its own battery as you drive – meaning that flat batteries are potentially of little concern. In technological terms, these high-performance batteries continue to be improved year upon year, so we are hopefully looking towards a brighter future for hybrids. It might even be possible – as prices fall and technology improves – that we’ll see hybrid vehicles replace petrol-guzzlers as the public’s car of choice.

The first type of battery used in hybrid cars is lead-acid. These were invented in 1859 by Gaston Planté, a French physicist, and have been popular for use in motor vehicles because they are able to supply powerful surge currents – which is essential for automobile starter motors. They tend to be used as standard car batteries in petrol vehicles, and are not considered particularly efficient for use in hybrid electric vehicles because they are quite toxic – thus reducing the potential environmental benefits – and because they are heavy, which could cut down on fuel efficiency. However, recycling programs for lead-acid batteries have been very successful, with 97% of all battery lead in the US being recycled from 1997 to 2001.

The second type of battery, nickel-metal hydride (or NiMH), is less toxic than its lead-based counterpart. As a result, they have proven to be more popular for use in hybrid cars than lead-acid batteries, with the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid and Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 all using this battery type. They are also popularly used in consumer electronics because they can be easily recharged.

Many see the future of hybrid cars to lie in lithum-ion (Li-ion) batteries. These batteries are the least toxic variety of the three mentioned, and are one of the most popular batteries used in portable electronic devices. This is partly because they don’t gradually lose their maximum charging capacity with repeated recharges. The first commercially-available lithium ion battery was released by Sony in 1991. Car companies are investing a lot of time and money into researching this relatively new energy technology for use in hybrid cars. Hopefully this research will be successful, and we’ll soon see cars running on the same greener technology that our favourite MP3 players use.

Hybrid cars now offer a wide range of design options, the rise in hybrid vehicles is leading to a new and exciting time for environmentally friendly driving. With rising fuel prices and environmental concerns there are more people calling for every day cars such as useful hatchback cars and family cars to include hybrid technology.

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About the only certainty in the gasoline market is that prices will go up, that has generally been true since the oil embargo of the early 1970′s and with continuing events in certain oil producing countries combined with a sharp rise in the use of fossil fuels by nations such as China and India. This growing middle class is buying more vehicles than ever, you can be sure that prices will only go up.

Therefore, the best step is to find ways to save on gas use. To save money on fuel means combining simple techniques and practices of driving that make for good gas saving tips along with finding gas sources such as purchasing from a fuel saving business or using a gas additive opportunity that will decrease your fuel use even further. It may even be possible to make money and save on gas if you take advantage of certain opportunities which can allow you and your family, friends and those around you to save on gas and save on diesel fuel by joining a fuel direct business or fuel direct opportunity.

First things first, to save a considerable amount of gas in your everyday driving, following these tips can cut up to 1/3rd off your gas usage depending on how many of these fuel saving tips you are already using.

First of all drive the speed limit. It may seem slower, but cars generally lose efficiency above 60 mph. Basically every 5 mph over 60 is wasting about 30 cents of each gallon of fuel you use, that adds up quickly over time. Also, driving the speed limit may keep you out of more harmful trouble as well.

Take Aggressiveness out of your Driving. Speeding, especially rapid acceleration and slamming the brakes wastes a considerable amount of gas. Slow down, calm down and drive sensibly can save you more than just fuel, it may keep you out of an accident as well.

Try to dump some of the weight: Every 100 pounds extra you carry cuts fuel mileage by up to 2%. So if you are carrying heavy equipment or items you don’t need, store them somewhere else.

Learn to stop excessive idling. If you are going to be parked in a spot for more than a minute or so, cut the engine. Idling can use up to a half gallon of gas an hour, so if you’re going to be there a while, kill the engine and save your fuel.

Now that you are driving more efficiently, you can also take advantage of joining a direct fuel company or MLM in which you can purchase gas in larger quantities at lower prices. Often, these prices are locked in when you buy them, meaning you can avoid the sudden increases that often occur during the summer and holiday times.

Also, there are plenty of good fuel additives that can help you increase your mileage by reducing the amount of gas burned. Seeking out good, recommended fuel additives can indeed save you money over the long run.

If you incorporate all of these gas saving tips, you find yourself saving a considerable amount of money in the long term.

Stephen Long is a leading independent consultant in Network Marketing, and online business opportunities Learn more about how you can save money at the pump and get paid with XP3 from Fuel Direct.

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