Getting a Car

2008 Honda Accord Detailed Review

2008-04-18T00:48:00.000-07:00

Honda lovers will wait for a month to get their first hand on the all-new 2008 Honda Accord model. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. has released the full details and specifications of the vehicle.

According to John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc:
"The all-new 2008 Honda Accord has become more advanced and refined with a new level of engineering sophistication. As the Honda brand's flagship automobile, the Accord is designed to exceed expectations with premium technology, a more spacious interior and increased power, while retaining the fun-to-drive character and innovative feel that has always distinguished the Accord."

The 2008 Honda Accord comes in two body styles: Sedan and Coupe. Both body styles comes with several trim levels including EX, EX-L, LX, and LX-P for Sedan, and EX, EX-L, and LX-S for the Coupe variant. Under the hood, Honda offers a total of four power plants, two 4-cylinder and two V6 engines. These include 2.4-liter Inline 4-cylinder Engine (LX, LX-P Sedan); 2.4-liter Inline 4-cylinder Engine (EX, EX-L Sedan; LX-S, EX, EX-L Coupe); V6 Engine with Automatic Transmission (EX V-6, EX-L V-6 Sedan; EX V-6, EX-L V-6 Coupe); and V6 Engine with Manual Transmission (EX-L V-6 6-Speed Coupe).

Honda said the exterior appearance of the 2008 Accord showcases the company's traditional three-box shape enhancing the car's dynamic and sporty characteristic. Other exterior highlights include sleek and long hood, daytime running lights, exhaust finisher, power windows, power locks, power outside mirrors, and 16-inch steel wheels wrapped with P215/60 R 16 tires. For V6-equipped models, additional features include power moonroof, heated outside mirrors, and auto headlights.

Inside, the 2008 Honda Accord Sedan and Coupe comes with premium quality interior materials, along with the in-car entertainment and information systems. All model trim levels for Accord Sedan and Accord Coupe come with exclusive interior features. Standard features for all 2008 Honda Accord models include MP3/Windows Media Audio (WMA) playback capability and an auxiliary input jack, single-disc CD player and six speakers, and Radio Data System (RDS). For the Accord Sedan EX and Coupe LX-S trim, additional features include a 6-disc in-dash changer with seven speakers including an 8-inch subwoofer (standard on Accord EX Coupe and Sedan EX-L models), and XM Satellite Radio (standard on Accord EX-L model). The voice activated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with 8-inch screen is an available feature for EX-L models.

Occupant safety is an extremely significant factor for all Honda models. The 2008 Honda Accord Sedan and Coupe models offer the highest level of occupant protection with the sophisticated safety systems including Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, side curtain airbags, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags (SRS), active front seat head restraints, front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system, and driver's and front passenger's dual-chamber side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS). These active safety systems are complemented by the vehicles passive safety components like VSA, four-wheel disc anti-lock brake system (ABS), brake assist, and electronic brake distribution (EBD). Getting this vehicle on your garage really makes sense instead of upgrading your GMC Jimmy parts.

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/2008-Honda-Accord-Detailed-Review/70720

Automotix: The Right Used Auto Parts Classifieds to Look Into

2008-04-06T08:11:00.000-07:00

The selling of used auto parts is rampant. One can find used auto parts for sale in many venues that include salvage yards, flea markets, gas stations, and on the Internet. Obviously salvage yards are one of your best options if you're in the hunt for used auto parts. They have a wide variety of used auto parts to provide every buyer. One may also choose to do some searching at the flea market. But one should be careful in buying used auto parts in the flea market because most of which are of the duplicate low-quality types that easily deteriorate with time. Although some gas stations also sell these auto parts, it is not likewise advisable to purchase your needs there. Most of the parts that they sell are also of low quality because they are just finds from people who have abandoned their automobiles or from vehicles who have broken down on the road.

The best place, therefore, to search for and buy cheap and good-quality used auto parts is on the Internet. You will find thousands of used auto parts classifieds from the large number of websites offering automobile services and products. From salvage autos to used car engines, from brand-new cars to second-hand tires, the Internet never runs out of sites to log on to. And leading these sites is Automotix.

At Automotix, you will find an endless list of used auto parts classifieds. These classifieds are normally by owners of used auto parts and accessories who themselves post the parts that they have available for the public. And because these owners are not automotive stores, these used auto parts are normally sold at cheaper and more affordable prices. These owners are usually your average owners of the parts, car and truck mechanics, backyard dealers, and the like who have some used auto parts that are available for selling.

With the ever-increasing productions of automobiles comes the increasing demand for their parts. And this holds true for used auto parts as well. And for practicality purposes as well as the financial help it brings, selling used auto parts aid car owners sustain the lifetime function of their automobiles.

Automotix believes that every car owner deserves to get the best for their cars when it comes to buying parts and accessories for them. This is why at Automotix they make sure that even used auto parts for sale that are posted in their used auto parts classifieds are still of high-quality and worth recycling. They make sure that they examine the quality of the used auto parts that are posted on their used auto parts classifieds by these parts owners or dealers to ensure that their clients get what their money's worth. Screening the used auto parts does a lot to help ensure this. And because prospective buyers are given direct contact with the owners of the used auto parts, they can conduct negotiations over the prices.

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Automotix--The-Right-Used-Auto-Parts-Classifieds-to-Look-Into/66928

Advantages of Hybrid Automobiles

2008-04-04T10:45:00.000-07:00

Sure, hybrid vehicles are hot nowadays.
The distinction of the full hybrid from the mild variety is that the electric motor and the diesel engine can operate on its own. In most instances, the electric motor can function by itself in low speed, and once it picks up, the diesel engine automatically takes over. Both the motor and the engine can function together if the car is in hard acceleration.
This combined effort provides the car the power that it needs for that situation. Full hybrid vehicles can consume and build up electricity simultaneously. The full hybrid setup can be found in models such as the popular Toyota Prius, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid, and the Escape hybrid from Ford.
For instance, one can look at the way the Toyota Prius works. The Prius runs on a technology called the Hyrbid Synergy Drive, which involves a power split device to combine the energy of the electric motor and the gas engine. The HSD enables a effortless switching of power sources that the car driver would not notice in the slightest while driving.
Another point to consider if must compare hybrid vehicles is the size. With earlier models, hybrid vehicles only came in two sizes. First is the small sized vehicle. The second is the much smaller one. But hybrid manufacturers are learning to respond with the consumer's specific needs. And because these manufacturers somehow know that the consumers had learned how to compare hybrid vehicles, all of them are putting some improvements
The Prius has the widest dichotomy in operation. It shuts off the electric engine on the highways and runs on diesel and shuts off the diesel engine when it is in stop and go traffic. This contributes greatly in mileage improvement and produces less emission.
Diesel VS Hybrid
The Hybrid Ford Escape SUV has contributed a particularly notable benefit as it has brought regular diesel emissions down to about 1/100th of what it is as pure diesel
So really, there isn't going to be much argument over the great savings a consumer can gain with a hybrid vehicle. Sure, it comes at a cost, but its long term gains truly outweigh the initial price shock. Over time, when more people realize the merits of hybrid vehicles, supply will definitely go up and push prices down.
Environmentally-conscious individuals would find heaven with hybrid vehicles. However, since they are just being introduced in the market, they can come at quite an expense. With increased patronage, it is hoped that more hybrid vehicles will become accessible to everyone in the future.
Also at present, people who would buy hybrid vehicles will benefit from the Federal State tax deductions. Buying hybrid vehicles is encouraged because of the long term benefits of minimized fuel usage. Other tax deductions for hybrid car are also available. Some cities several free parking areas for low-emissions vehicles owners.
For price, below is a means to compare currently available hybrid vehicles. It's not a clear-cut pricing table, but at least you have an idea.

> 2006 Toyota Prius, $21,2745
> 2006 Honda Insight, $19,330 manual transmission; $21,530 for automatic
> 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid, $21,850
> 2007 Lexus GS 450h, $54,900
> 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid, $25,900
?2006 Honda Accord Hybrid, $30,140
Vehicles sold in the United States today, on the average, gets a combined highway and city EPA fuel usage estimate of some 20.4 miles per gallon (mpg). All hybrid vehicles, hard as you compare, have EPA number well above than what specified earlier.
The demand and availability for hybrid vehicles has been growing steadily over the years because of the increasing concerns of motorists regarding the price increases of gas.
Vehicles sold in the United States today, on the average, gets a combined highway and city EPA fuel usage estimate of some 20.4 miles per gallon (mpg). All hybrid vehicles, hard as you compare, have EPA number well above than what specified earlier.
Honda Insight was particularly manufactured to obtain the best mileage, making it the undisputed leader in terms of gas mileage. The traditional manual transmission hybrids have EPA estimates of 60 mpg in the city and 66 mpg on the highway. The automatic version on the other hand has transmission rated slightly lower at 57 city/56 highway.
The second best choice is the newest version of the Prius at 60 city/51 highway. It can be seen that the city estimate is higher than the highway estimate due to this hybrid car's capacity to operate on battery power alone at low speeds.
The 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid was available with a manual transmission that was rated at 46 city/51 highway; the automatic at 48 city/47 highway. Hybrid sedan is rated at 25 city/28 highway.
For its part, Honda Motors will not take the competition for hybrid vehicles just sitting closely by. The Japanese car making giant has its famous Accord and Civic models spun-off in hybrids.
That is right. The hybrid models for the Honda hybrid vehicles are as efficient and as beautiful as the company's old, traditional and reliable car models.
If you wish to help reduce pollution for your own better health and the health of your family and loved ones I have a great idea and you don't need to spend thousands of dollars or wait...
WATER4GAS is providing information at a low price which consumers can use in their garage or wherever to build a small gizmo which instills hydrogen into the gasoline/air mixture that their vehicle runs on.
What this does is make bite sized particles out of the particles that the system burns as fuel. Because of the smaller size the system is able to use much more of the fuel.
By doing this you can reasonably expect to increase your fuel economy by thirty to fifty percent or even more. Those goblets must have been pretty "blankin'" huge in some systems before. But with WATER4GAS they are made consumable so you can increase your fuel economy.
It also helps make emissions substantially cleaner.
This package of info has been purchased by over NINE THOUSAND car owners already and the percentage of happy customers is about 99%! So how about you?

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Advantages-of-Hybrid-Automobiles/66410

Lambo Doors

2008-04-04T10:21:00.000-07:00

People often buy cars with their heart along their mind and that is why after someone has just bought a vehicle, that person would want to modify it, to make it more appealing, more beautiful.

People who like their cars so much would do anything to enhance their car, either if you are talking about performance modifications or visual ones. Visual tunning elements are easier to install and they have virtually no side effects compared to the performance enhancements.

The most common visual modifications involve changing the car's color, adding elements such as spoilers, rims, or even extreme modifications brought to the car's interior.

People will always look at a car's appearance before they look at its performance and that is why most people choose to enhance the car's aspect by any means. Recently, more and more people are choosing to install Lambo doors to their cars

So what are lambo doors, you may ask yourself?

Lambo doors are, as their name implies, car doors that open in a Lamborghini style - vertically. Car doors that open verticalle have always been regarded as something very luxurious and were reserved to very expensive cars. When choosing Lambo doors, people have to buy Lambo door kits, as they came in sets of two.

The Lambo doors kit also includes the special hinges and bolts, as the way the Lambo doors attach to the car's chassis differs significantly from the way normal doors open. There are Lambo doors that can be opened in various degrees, ranging from 70 to 120 degrees. Installing a pair of Lambo doors to your car will enhance greatly the way your car looks and it surely make it stand out from the crowd, even if the car is normal in appearance.

You should know that installing a pair of Lambo doors to your car requires quite a lot of work and it involves a few more pieces than installing a pair of rims, for example. You will have to un-install the original doors from your car and to install the new pair of Lambo doors and you will require all the installation tips and information supplied by the Lambo door vendor.

You have to work carefully to be sure the doors are perfectly aligned and sealed. After all, you would not want water to infiltrate your car or your new, shiny Lambo doors to give way during a car crash.

Being a more complex operation, you should purchase Lambo doors from tunning shops that also offer you installation, as this is not your everyday mounting scheme.

There are two main types of Lambo doors available and they differ according to the method of installation. There are the bolted Lambo doors and there are the welded Lambo doors.

The most popular types of Lambo doors are the bolted ones as they are the easiest to install. After you have bolted the doors to your car, you must align them and adjust their fit. If you will ever want to change the doors (to buy new ones or to install the original ones back on), the bolted Lambo doors are the easiest to do so.

However, you must be careful when mounting them, as the bolts in the bolted Lambo doors can shift easily if they are not properly installed. The welded Lambo doors are more firmly held into place compared to the bolted ones, but you will have to use a powerful welding torch while installing them and you have to pay very much attention to protecting the car's paint job from the very high temperatures.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Lambo-Doors/152122

Car Auction Online

2008-03-28T13:08:00.001-07:00

Car Auction Online provides auctions for various vehicle types including classic car, sports car and commercial vehicles.

If you are looking to buy a used car from an auction, then look no further as we can help you find just what you're looking for under one roof and at the price you want.

Car Auction Online will help you find the car you want by searching our stock from used car dealers along with stock advertised from many used car supermarkets. So if you are looking to buy a used car, then look no further than
Car Auction Online where you will find all the choice you need under one roof.

Our used car search allows you to search according to any criteria you want, ensuring that you are given the most precise results. This saves you time and effort as you won't be sifting through hundreds of adverts that you are not interested in, but taken straight to the cars that you want.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Car-Auction-Online/148880

Fulfill your dream of owning a luxury car with Infiniti used car

2008-03-28T12:14:00.001-07:00

We often consider a car to be a boy's toy but with the emerging trend of economically independent and successful women being on the rise, this may not be true for too long. After all, who would not desire a stylishly designed, comfortable and luxurious car and hence gender definitely does not have a role to play in this fascination with luxury cars. In this category of luxury cars, the manufacturers at Nissan have already made a name for themselves and now just their name is sufficient to assure any customer about the quality, style, standard, comfort of the car and it is one of the most preferred names in the category of luxury cars. However, like any other item that has a high demand and caters to a certain segment of society, the luxury cars also have a high price tag attached to them and beyond the reach of everyone. Infiniti used, therefore, makes it possible for anyone to fulfill their dream of owning a luxury car and that too, without burning a hole in their pocket.

Infiniti used, although it is the category of second hand cars, does not reduce the prestige of owning this branded car in any way. In fact, it gives the owner the best of both the worlds, superior quality but at a cost much lesser than the original price of the car. The financial benefit for you, when you opt for an Infiniti used, is that the dealer providing this luxury car will also have a number of financial schemes to help you purchase the car of your dreams without a financial constraint on your household budget. The installment schemes offered by the dealer enable you to select a car according to your preference, style, color, design and features as you need not pay for the car at one go but through monthly installments over a fixed period of time.

When you opt for an Infiniti used, you can have the assurance that the car which you are purchasing will be of a high quality and standard and must have been maintained well by the previous owner as it belongs to the luxury car segment. Most people buying a car of this manufacturer treat it as a cherished possession hence when you buy a second hand car from this dealer; you get value for money on your purchase. So, in the bargain you get the latest gadgets, high level of comfort and a luxurious driving experience overall when you opt for a luxury car.

Once you have decided on purchasing an Infiniti used car, then the very first requirement would be to locate a reputable dealer who has a wide range in his collection. The best ways to locate such a dealer would be through the yellow pages or through the online websites on the internet. Also, buying a luxury car should be a well thought out decision as the car is going to be your possession for quite some time to come so make sure you have carefully examined the car, available accessories in case you need future replacements and every other detail. If chosen carefully, a luxury car from this manufacturer can bring you much satisfaction and status.

An Infiniti used car will also provide you with status and guarantee of quality and class.

About the Author:

Tim Johrer has a special interest towards luxury cars and knows that the level of class defines luxury cars.He provides information to customers about different range of Infiniti cars.For more information related to Infiniti,Infiniti used,Infiniti Nassau,Infiniti part,Infiniti Bronx,Infinti QX56,Long island infiniti visit http://www.infinitiofmanhasset.com

Source: http://www.upublish.info/Article/Fulfill-your-dream-of-owning-a-luxury-car-with-Infiniti-used-car/128898

Water4Gas Maybe It Is Too Easy

2008-03-26T06:49:00.001-07:00

It was an honor to witness Colonel Lawrence Wilkerson when he spoke at the Hammer Cultural Center on the Westside of Los Angeles yesterday evening. He is is the highest ranking official who defected from the Bush Administration. Something that he confessed is a source of embarressment and that he has no hesitancy in saying that he will have on his concience as long as he lives More specifically that he observed many things that he knew were wrong but stayed in the Administration for five years. The man said so much that was true last nite.
However he said a couple of things that were not factual.
He said that he thinks that the switch over to clean fuel solutions could easily take 75 years. He talked about the need to overhaul the entire industry, its infrastructure etc... AFTER the technology is devised.
So, if you have someone with as much courage and integrity and honest patriotism as Colonel Wilkerson demonstrated who is still on stage discussing these false statements about the energy problem and its future solutions then perhaps it means that many people in power don't know. And that only means that the oil companies and industry "authorities" have performed very well at their jobs in hiding the truth from the public.
Truth is it isn't going to take seventy five years or one year. Because we already have it now. I suppose the infrastructure will just have to get used to having to maintaining pace with the people. Because there are now many collaborative members of Water4Gas all around the world who are cooperating for the common purpose of pushing this new technology up as high as we can take it as rapidly as humanly possible. Even where it is at this stage it is at a standard where just about anyone with or without mechanical skill with car engines can install the system and take their vehicel out for a drive running it on a gas/hydrogen hybrid car.
So there are those who are engaged in creating the smoke screen and some may have gotten blinded by it and some of those are out there forwarding false information. You don't have to join them! But you don't have to be either of those. You can join us, instead!

Learn all there is to know about the simplest and least expensive method to POWER YOUR CAR WITH WATER and lower gas consumption through hydrogen generation

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Water4Gas-Maybe-It-Is-Too-Easy/63709

Car Forums - Online Car Clubs

2008-03-26T06:37:00.001-07:00

Car forums, in other words, online car clubs are one exciting thing to get involved with these days. Car forums present so many useful discussions about the car industry, driving, types or cars, latest car models, latest car technology and just about anything about car.

Car forums are an effective way to educate people about so many good things they need to know about cars. It is a great platform for collaborative interchange among and between people who share common likes and interests in cars.

If you need to know about the latest topics about the car world you should only log onto your favorite car forum and get ready to take a blast of relevant information you can only get from a car discussion board. There are threads and discussions on almost any topic you can think of about the cars you love and the cars you are dying to drive.

If you are the type of person who is interested in sharing what you know then joining a car discussion board is a great idea where your knowledge can be heard by a great multitude of people. Go global and let your ideas soar and be heard.

There are people who also have the ideas that you may not still be aware of and this can generate two-way traffic - you share and at the same time you learn from other people.

If you need expert advice from some of the world's greatest authorities, well, you can surely get one from car forums and car discussions.

If you on the other hand want to gain sufficient information about what's the best piece of technology that you can add to your very own car to keep it always in style, you can get them at a car discussion board, too.

Now, if what you want to know of is what should be the best car you can purchase, you can do this by logging on the site and see for yourself the many options you have and the great deals you can choose from coming from renowned car makers around the globe.

There are also cool tips for drivers who want to take their driving experience to the edge and be among the professionals that so many car lovers admire and emulate.

These are but few of the many things that car forums can offer you. No doubt, there are still dozens of advantages in store for you when you join a given car forum.

Truly, car forums are another exciting thing that you can find in the Internet. It is entertaining, informative and most of all exciting. If you decide to join a car discussion board you are sure that your decision and time will never be wasted.

In fact, it can be the best decision you will ever make in your entire life. There are so many things you can get when you join car discussion boards.

These things are guaranteed to bring you extra happiness and enjoyment that no amount of money could ever buy. So, what are you waiting for? Go now and join your car forum today and see for yourself the great things that can surely sweep you off head over heels.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Car-Forums---Online-Car-Clubs/147199

Infiniti New York range is awesome in every aspect

2008-03-26T06:31:00.001-07:00

The desire for luxury and comfort is common with everybody in the world. Everyone demands the typical combination of elegance and standard along with the features of latest technology. And this combination is beautifully shaped up by the manufacturers of Nissan in the form of Infiniti New York ranges of cars. This brand offers the series of cars that have everything to boast about. They mark excellence in style, look, performance, durability, services and possibly everything that you may look for in a car. The range is not only well known in New York but has widely spotted its popularity all around the world.

Infiniti New York is best described as the car of supremacy, and driving it is no sense less than the most pleasurable experience. One would be tempted to own it just after one test drive. This is on the account of great hard work applied in its making and engineering. It is well equipped with all the main technical parts and modern accessories. Each car and model is an outcome of immense effort and detailed research. Great mileage, flexible gear and breaks, utmost level of luxuries provide you with an ultimate touch of comfort even in the long journeys. The car is thus designed to offer you a flawless driving experience. So, if Infiniti New York has matched your set of preferences, all you have to do is visit your nearest dealer and book your dream car. There are numerous schemes these dealers provide to make owning Infiniti a convenient process.

Some of the most sellable models of the Infiniti New York are G35Coupe, FX 35, Q45, G35 Sedan, M35 and M45. However, one must not forget that the range is never ending. The cars from this marquee are superbly attractive and define the real sense of comfort, style and luxury. The range is as extensive as its exquisite. Every model is available in a series of colors displaying an outstanding choice for your selection. So now pick any color from red, black, cherry, bronze, white, silver, metallic, blue etc and flaunt your car in your preferred color.

The huge range of Infiniti New York cars is available with all dealers in New York and other cities. You can also contact the dealers for several other attractive plans and schemes. Many a time your financial condition may not allow you to buy such luxurious cars. For this purpose, Infiniti launches various financial schemes and loan availability so that nothing can between you and your desire to own a luxury car. All you are required to do is contact a dealer and inquire about the economic plans and offers. The dealers will thoroughly assist you in taking loans also, where you deposit a certain amount and the rest can be paid in regular installments. Another most useful feature of these showrooms is the easy availability of the original Infiniti parts. Even if in case you wish to replace any part of your car, you can directly get in touch with the dealers.

Infiniti New York has marked its distinctive position in the world of automobiles.

About the Author:

Tim Johrer has a special interest towards luxury cars and knows that the level of class defines luxury cars.He provides information to customers about different range of Infiniti cars.For more information related to Infiniti,Infiniti New York,Infiniti Nassau,Infiniti part,Infiniti Bronx,Infinti QX56,Long island infiniti visit http://www.infinitiofmanhasset.com

Source: http://www.upublish.info/Article/Infiniti-New-York-range-is-awesome-in-every-aspect/128522

Purchasing Your First Car

2008-03-26T01:05:00.000-07:00

With new cars, everything seems hard to do. Picking the right car and knowing what is best for it, picking a car that will not depreciate its value in time too much so that you can sell it at a high price later, how much will the maintenance of your car cost you each month and how much will the insurance cost and so on - are some the few questions any responsible future car owner asks themselves and the reasons are rather simple and straightforward.

Of course, the pressures applied to you by the car salesman that keeps babbling about how good is one car and how good another is does not make your choice any easier to make.

First, before you go anywhere to buy anything you must decide what the cars that are right for you are. Do not go overboard you need to pick a car that corresponds to your budget and payment threshold.

So, before you head out to the first car showroom check exactly how much you can spend, and how much you are willing to spend taking into consideration other expenses that may appear through time.

In addition, when checking for car prices make sure you find the one that includes all the taxes so you will not have an ugly surprise later. Buying a car is not an easy thing to do especially if you are doing it for the first time, and a bunch of advice for dealing with the situation can feel welcome.

Throughout this articles there have been noted a few important things, but you can always talk to someone who is in the business, who has bought many cars, or talk to a friend who has bought a car lately.

Yet, the most important thing when going to buy a new car is that you should be very relaxed, positive and patient, these being two attitudes that will almost ensure a great deal. Rather than opting for a paranoid and an aggressive attitude because this way you will not pay attention to facts you know and you will always be questioning and thinking of what may happen in the future.

This is just the beginning, you can check one of the many car-buying guides that can be found on the internet, and be very careful at their content - read the whole review or article and do not just go through it briefly. It is very important to understand that most of the time buying a car is like a poker game, meaning that you first have to know all the rules by the heart, learn the card dealer's scams and have a bit of luck as well.

A rule of the thumb is that you should never buy the first car you see and obviously do not believe the dealers when they babble that they have the cheapest prices in town of that car, or that they have the best ones, that is just one of their many stories.

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Purchasing-Your-First-Car/64045

Honestly - Do You Drink, Take Drugs and Drive? (Part One)

2008-03-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

People who are under the influence of alcohol believe that they can control and handle automobile very well under any circumstances. This is just not the case. Alcohol is a drug that affects your skills, moods, and behaviour. Once it has been consumed, the effects of alcohol on your driving cannot be reversed. The only thing that will sober you up is time. Other drugs also impair your driving and we will look at these later.

Driving on the road is an enormous responsibility. Having a reliable car to drive which is equipped with common safety features is also a must, not just to keep you safe, but to ensure your family's security. To check the safety of your car on the road, go online to vicroads.vic.gov.au, and look at the newest statistics. When you have found out how your car stands up, then your next stop should be OzFreeOnline.com where you can join, and search for your new family cars in their many pages of car classifieds. You will find thousands of cars for sale Australia-wide and at the same time, you can advertise your car for sale in the free classified pages.

You may have the safest vehicle on the road, full of all the newest features and customized to your particular specifications. Nevertheless, you could still become a fatality, a statistic. Furthermore, if you are lucky enough to survive a crash because of all the pre-cautionary measures you may have taken, you still could be the cause of fatalities to other road users.

Driving while intoxicated is taking a big risk. I want you to really think about it. There are so many automobile accidents that involve sober drivers, so what chance do you have in a drunken stupor at the wheel while intoxicated. Leave the car keys at home, if you are going out for a drink with friends, or better still have a designated driver who is a non-drinker. You will enjoy the evening better - not having to worry about taking chances.

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Honestly---Do-You-Drink--Take-Drugs-and-Drive-----Part-One-/62338

Air Horns on Cars & Trucks - The Next Big Trend

2008-03-24T09:11:00.001-07:00

Forget jacking your truck up, neons, and chrome rims, today's auto junkies have air horns! Not just any kind of air horn though, real train horns. That's right, it's the new sensation, and people can't get enough of the ear-splitting sound.

The madness started with sites like TruckTrainHorns.com popping up, posting videos on Youtube of them riding around scaring the living daylights out of people with their horns. Not long after, other truck websites followed. Then, before you know it, everyone on the block has a 150 plus decibel train horn.

Since the horns require high intensity air flow, you have to have an air source. This includes an air tank and a compressor. Along with other hardware & valves, you have a complete air horn setup.

AirHornKits.com sells kits that are easily installed on just about any automobile. The prices range from about $200 to over $600. Each range kit has different specs and decibels of sound. The great thing about buying them as a kit, is you have everything you need to install it. The kits also come with full color directions, making it easier for the first time installer.

The question your probably thinking now is, how am I going to fit a 5 gallon air tank, compressor, hosing, and the horns in to my Honda Accord? Luckily some sites like TruckTrainHorns.com offer smaller systems. For instance you can buy the 'car kit' which includes a smaller size air tank, and compact horns.

Most people with cars put the tank in the trunk, along with the compressor and run a high intensity hose to the air horns. The horns don't have to mount facing forward, this is a common misconception. They're just as effective facing down, towards the ground.

So, your thinking of getting an air horn, but just out of curiosity, you want to know...What's the loudest horn out there? That's a good question. The loudest horn made is the Nathan K5. Not many people sell it because it's only available to locomotive related companies. Only a small, select group of sites sell them, and there not cheap! The average price for just the horns is well over $1500. Not to mention you need an air system to push it.
Air horns can be a lot of fun. If and when you decide to purchase one, check out the sites I mentioned in the article. Also be very careful with your new horns, there not toys, and can be dangerous, so use them responsibly.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Air-Horns-on-Cars---Trucks---The-Next-Big-Trend/146011

Cleaner Fuel for a Smoother Drive

2008-03-24T08:57:00.001-07:00

Imagine driving your Honda on your way to a much-awaited vacation, an urgent meeting, or any other important destination. As you're driving, you notice a slowdown in your car's performance and as you listen carefully, you hear a slightly irritating sound coming out of your engine. You decide to check your rear view mirror but you're afraid of what you'll see. But you went on and alas, you find yourself staring at that annoying black monster coming out of your Honda's tailpipe. You can easily point the exhaust system as the culprit and you may be right. But perhaps the problem is caused by malfunctioning Honda fuel filters. Car owners usually take the fuel filter for granted, not knowing it can do a lot in preventing major engine repairs.

The Honda fuel filter helps your car achieve an increase in overall performance with its filtering ability. This device traps fuel contaminants in the fuel system. The amount of fuel contaminants in the engine may be small but it sure can ruin a good combustion process. Because these substances are burned during combustion, you can expect a toxic emission as well. But the horrors of having these fuel particles do not end there. If they accumulate on your engine's components, rust is likely to build up, leaving you with expensive and time-consuming engine repairs.

If you don't want your Honda vehicle to experience these terrible consequences, make sure it is equipped with quality Honda fuel filters. But don't stop there-maintenance requires that fuel filters be replaced at least every six months for regularly-used cars. You can easily buy replacement fuel filters by just browsing through our site. You see, a thousand-dollar engine damage can be easily prevented with the installation of a Honda fuel filter that only costs about $20. Quite a great deal, right?

Choose from our selection of replacement Honda Fuel Filters at discounted prices. Discount Honda Parts site offers you only the finest and reliable auto parts.

If you don't want your Honda vehicle to experience these terrible consequences, make sure it is equipped with quality Honda fuel filters. But don't stop there-maintenance requires that fuel filters be replaced at least every six months for regularly-used cars. You can easily buy replacement fuel filters by just browsing through our site. You see, a thousand-dollar engine damage can be easily prevented with the installation of a Honda fuel filter that only costs about $20. Quite a great deal, right?

Discount Honda Parts site offers you only the finest and reliable auto parts.

About the Author:

For more information about your parts needs like Honda fuel filter visit your trusted online source. Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Source: http://www.upublish.info/Article/Cleaner-Fuel-for-a-Smoother-Drive/125568

Keeping Water Out of Your Used Cars (Part One)

2008-03-24T05:03:00.000-07:00

Water can be any car's worst and stealthiest enemy.

Whether you have a new or used car, water is one of those things most car owners ignore and take for granted, thinking it's just water, what harm could it possibly give. They may say that their cars are built to repel water and weather all harsh elements, but that's most car owners. Well, like it or not, water will cause problems, and if neglected you could be in for a nasty surprise.

Flooding in Used Cars
A no-nonsense dictionary definition of flooding is: water where it is not wanted. Going the long technical route, flooding occurs most commonly from heavy rainfall when natural watercourses do not have the capacity to convey the excess water.

Floods however do not necessarily need to be caused by heavy rainfall. In coastal areas, inundation may occur because of a storm surge, tsunami, or a high tide coinciding with higher than normal river levels. Storm surges are most commonly caused by tropical cyclones, hurricanes and are usually located in Northern and Western states in Australia.

Most communities in Australia have experienced some level of flooding from high water due to heavy rains, overflowing riverbanks, torrential thunderstorms and other additional problems, which occur such as blocked and overworked drainage systems, and will result in flooding of the area. Flooding, therefore, can occur even in dry weather conditions.

And car owners know, if anything, that their precious used cars or new cars aren't all that weather-proof without their care and intervention. If weather-proof paint in car roofs and hoods can stand the hardest rains, what about the car's underside which gets exposed to likewise destructive floodwaters?

Floods are one of the most common and widespread of all disasters. Most of us have no choice but to drive our cars through raging floods. Especially for used cars, this is a crucial issue. While your used car may not have been flooded or completely covered in water that does not necessarily mean that you should not be concerned about water damage. Water damage is very unsafe if your engine and important parts of your used car have been contaminated.

How to Protect Your Used Car in Australia
Perhaps you drove through high water, or you may even have had an accident at the car wash, there is a chance then that you may have damaged your vehicle. Don't put off inspecting your car till tomorrow. Water that gets left inside your car doesn't just evaporate without first causing damage.

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Keeping-Water-Out-of-Your-Used-Cars----Part-One-/62346

5 reasons why I can't sell my car at online auction.

2008-03-24T02:46:00.000-07:00

This is a very common question from people attempting to sell their vehicle at an online auction. I'm going to make this a short one, because it is ridiculously simple to answer. It is usually one of 5 reasons.

1. Your starting bid is too high. People see your car at auction, they see that nobody else has bid on it yet, therefore it is an undesirable vehicle. "If nobody else wants it why would I?". If you have a reserve price (least amount you'll take) on your car or truck then what difference does it make if you start it at $1.00. I know you're are thinking that "anyone that would bid that low is not serious about buying it". That doesn't matter. What matters is when the real buyers see that it is now at $7,200 with 46 bids they believe it is a desirable vehicle. "Other people want it, it must be good." People don't wear Nike tennis shoes because of the quality, they wear them because they saw someone else wear them, simple mob mentality principle.
2. Bad description, pictures and video. If you post a car with 3 pictures and a couple of sentences, congratulations I can see your future and it is bleak. You won't sell the car. No effort... no reward. You should have at least 15 or 20 pictures and 2 or 3 paragraphs to effectively describe your vehicle. Also, the more text you have in a description, the more keywords that will kick out in a search engine query. This will increase the amount of traffic you get to see your auction in the first place. On VprojectCar you can also post with videos if you are selling a project car and this drastically increases the confidence level of any buyer.
3. Communication. I can't believe how many times I've received an email on one of my vehicles that was posted at an online auction that at the end of their question they state "Please Reply". What? This tells me that they have experienced asking questions to other sellers and they have gotten no reply. That makes me happy because that means that I'm going to sell my vehicle, and for more money and the people that didn't reply to the bidders questions will get the opportunity to either cheap sell their vehicle or have to re-list it.
4. Timing. If you allow your vehicles auction to end in the middle of a work week during the day, the odds are you will decrease the amount of last minute bidders. Some people will be at work and are not around a computer and others will be involved in their daily rituals and completely forget that they were going to bid on it in the first place. Next thing you know, you will be getting an email stating that they missed the auction and was willing to give way more for it than it brought. If you close your auction during dinner time, you will get the same reaction. So, it is best to close an auction when you think that your target market will be relaxing for the evening. I'm in the Midwest and I try to close my auctions to coincide with the time differences from coast to coast. Usually I end them around 8:00 p.m. Central Time. Again, this maximizes the amount of people that have a chance to see the auction end. The end is where the action is.
5. Your price is too high! I know you have the nicest 2001 Dodge Caravan anywhere and it is worth way more than any book or person would even understand. Truth is, you may be right, but you will still own your vehicle. It just won't sell. Unfortunately we live on a planet called Earth and we have to abide by principles referred to as reality and these realities have a direct impact on what your car is worth. Books are just guides and nobody will want to give you top price of any book no matter how nice your vehicle is. Also, availability has a lot to do with pricing your vehicle. You may have the nicest 2004 Chevy Corvette, but unfortunately GM made a few more of those cars than just yours. There may be hundreds or thousands of these cars available for sale and this will effect supply and demand aspects of your auction. Do some research, see what other vehicles are being sold for. Notice I didn't say what other people are asking for a car but what two people actually agreed upon as a final price. Then make realistic adjustments to your price. Face it, if you gave the farm for it a few years back, odds are it went down in value (unless of course it was a collectible, muscle car, classic). You will be less stressed out if you just sell it an get on with your life. I'm not saying to dump it. Well this leads me to another point about car pricing. The internet is available to most of the civilized world. And many of the people that are looking for your specific car are seriously in the market and have done their own research in advance of bidding. If you think that you are the only person that knows what your car is worth, I'm sorry my friend, you are sadly mistaken.

Ok, I lied this wasn't a short article. I just couldn't help myself. These principles are so obvious that it had to be said. I have successfully sold hundreds of vehicles at online auctions. There is no magic formula to selling each one, but if you put some of these principles in play, you will drastically increase your chance of success. Good luck!

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/5-reasons-why-I-can-t-sell-my-car-at-online-auction-/62986

Review New Cadillac STS

2008-03-23T00:41:00.000-07:00

DETROIT - The 2008 Cadillac STS debuts next month with a new, 302-horsepower engine with direct injection technology that improves fuel economy and reduces emissions. In addition, Cadillac's luxury performance sedan also showcases enhanced signature styling and the addition of leading-edge safety technology.

"For the past two decades, the Cadillac STS has been a showcase of luxury, performance and technology," says Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "The enhanced 2008 model extends that with bolder design, more standard power, better

For 2008, STS will be the first GM vehicle equipped with a new 3.6L direct injection V-6 engine. Direct Injection, an advanced system for more precise and productive fuel delivery, enables the rare achievement of simultaneous gains in power, fuel efficiency and emissions performance.
The new standard engine for STS delivers a SAE-certified 302 horsepower (225 kW) at 6300 rpm,* 47 more horsepower (35 kW) than the previous 3.6-liter V-6. Torque is also increased to 272 lb.-ft. (366 Nm) at 5200 rpm,* an upgrade of 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm). At the same time, the engine is expected to deliver improved fuel efficiency. Official EPA fuel economy statistics for the 2008 model have not yet been announced. On the outgoing 2007 model STS, EPA fuel economy is 18 mpg city and 27 mpg hwy.

Additionally, direct injection's more efficient operation enables a 25-percent reduction in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.

Coupled to the new V-6 engine will be the 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission, introduced last year on Northstar V-8 models, which has a generous 6.04:1 overall ratio that enables a steep first-gear that helps deliver strong launch acceleration. The STS V-6 continues to be available with all-wheel drive for 2008.

Continuing Cadillac's commitment to the advancement of safety and performance attributes, the 2008 STS includes new systems and advanced technologies to enhance driver awareness and control.

For the first time, Cadillac's acclaimed StabiliTrak electronic stability control system now includes the optional addition of active steering technology. In addition to controlling brakes and reducing engine power, the latest iteration of StabiliTrak combines active front steering to turn the front wheels into the skid when rear wheels lose traction. The system includes a new steering motor assembly combined with computer-driven electronic controls that measure wheel slippage at all four wheels independently during acceleration, braking and adverse road conditions.

GM's Lane Departure Warning System also debuts on the 2008 STS. Controlled by a camera located in the rearview mirror that reads the lines in the road, the system will alert drivers when they have strayed into another lane. Drivers get both an audible and visual alert cue.

When the Lane Departure Warning System is engaged, a driver traveling at 35 mph or more who crosses a detected lane marking without signaling is alerted in two ways: The system flashes an amber indicator light located in the fuel gauge of the instrument panel, and an alerting chime of three beeps is played. The system does not steer the vehicle; it is designed only to alert drivers so they can take appropriate action to move the vehicle back into the lane.

GM's Side Blind Zone Alert System extends and enhances driver awareness and vision. Alternating radar beams in Side Blind Zone Alert System sweep adjacent lanes of traffic, covering a zone of about one lane over from both sides of the vehicle, or 11 feet (3.5 m). The zone starts at each side mirror and goes back about 16 feet (5 m).

When the system is engaged, a driver will know that following vehicles in the adjacent lanes are entering their side blind zone when an amber symbol, located in the outside rearview mirror, is illuminated.

The system is not designed to detect vehicles outside of the side blind zone that may be rapidly approaching, or detect pedestrians, bicyclists or animals. It's designed to ignore infrastructure such as fire hydrants or parked cars. In addition, the system displays do not come on while the vehicle is approaching or passing other vehicles.

The Lane Departure Warning and Side Blind Zone Alert systems can be manually turned off by the driver.

A new performance handling package will be available for V-8-equipped rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive models and V-6-equipped rear-drive models. The package includes 18-inch x 8.5-inch aluminum alloy, chrome-plated wheels fitted with new P255/45R18 Michelin Pilot Sport summer-only tires.

Four-piston caliper Brembo brakes, with front rotors measuring 355 mm x 32 mm and 365 mm x 28 mm rear rotors, provide enhanced baking. All four rotors are vented.

A bolder new look, inside and out

The new STS injects more of the bold design flair that has become a Cadillac signature. Up front, the dual-textured, multi-faceted grille - first seen on the landmark Cadillac Sixteen concept car and incorporated on both the Escalade and soon-to-be-launched CTS - has been adapted to the STS.

High Intensity Discharge lamps and the Intellibeam automatic high-beam system are added for the first time for V-6 models. The lower front fascia features a new intake and grille pattern evoking Cadillac's V-Series high-performance models.

Similarly, side air extractors, again inspired by the Sixteen and Escalade, are now

incorporated into the front fenders of STS. New chrome-plated door handles and lower rocker moldings are added for more presence and refinement. At the rear, the new fascia is now body color and is highlighted with polished aluminum three-inch exhaust tips. New, polished 18-inch x 8-inch aluminum 14-spoke wheels are available.

The luxurious interior of the STS includes a new steering wheel with available genuine Sapele Pommele wood trim. The center stack of the instrument panel is revised with the addition of wood and metallic trim.

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Review-New-Cadillac-STS/62905

Something You Probably Did Not Know About Your Vehicles Fuel System

2008-03-21T14:16:00.000-07:00

Do you own a car? Go in the garage or drive-way right now, and run your finger along the inside edge of the tail-pipe. What you'll see now is your finger coated with a dark black smudge. This gunk on the tip of your finger is the stuff you pumped into your car, WASTED and UNUSED by your engine, and it is also your wasted cash.
Many people have never realized that the average car engine is only about 20%, because of inefficient conversion of energy inside the fuel system, and 1/5th of the gasoline you purchase just goes right out your tail-pipe as carbon waste.
How come? It's a little bit of engine mechanics - However, even if you are not mechanically inclined, it's pretty easy to visualize:

Just like most living creatures needs oxygen to breathe, fire requires oxygen to burn, and gas needs oxygen to explode inside the internal combustion engine with sufficient release of energy to move a car.
In fact, your fuel system is not being powered by liquid gasoline. It uses "gasoline vapor". When you fuel up, that which you are pumping is, naturally, a liquid. Before the vehicle's fuel system can utilize the fuel, it has to convert it into gas-vapor.
When the engine turns the liquid gasoline into vapor, it combines it with oxygen to create a rich powerful oxygen/gasoline mixture. This is the job of the fuel injection system in your car, or the carburetor (if you drive an older car)
What engine experts and oil corporations have kept you in the dark about for years is that only about 30-50% of the gas you put in your car gets properly vaporized for ignition.

About 1/5th of gasoline gets un-burnt because of the size of the gasoline molecules, this comes out your engine as smog and pollutants.

Additionally energy is wasted because of the wear-and tear in the engine, engine energy HEAT loss, and cooling energy, which totals to around 80% in wasted energy.
Does this make you angry?

What it means is that whenever you fill up at the station, it's like getting ripped off in more than one way... Once because of gasoline prices of over 3.00 per gallon, second because about 1/4th of that $3 or $4 is TAXES and INFLATION, and then again, because the system is rigged to waste gasoline and create toxic emissions
In fact, the vehicles made in the last 15 years all have computers. These are rigged to ensure that you don't increase fuel economy more than the oil companies are willing for you to have!

Think about it... 15% to 20% of the gasoline you purchase comes out your tail-pipe as waste... that's like pouring one fifth of the gas you purchase all over the ground when you fill your tank and that would probably be better for the environment than the toxic emissions from unburnt gas. And now you know why our environmental problems, such as smog today, especially in countries where leaded fuel is still used.
So what do you do about this?
If you are unindoctrinated, WATER4GAS is offering information at a low price which individuals can use at home to put together a small gizmo which instills hydrogen into the gas/air mixture that their car or truck runs on.
What this does is make bite sized particles out of the ones that the system burns as fuel. Therefore the engine gets to use considerably more of it.
By doing this you can minimumly expect to increase your fuel economy by 12%. In reality though many are obtaining thirty to fifty percent improvement or significantly more. Those goblets must have been pretty darn big in some engines before. But with WATER4GAS they are made consumable so you can increase your fuel economy.
It also helps to lower emissions significantly.
This information has been purchased by over NINE THOUSAND individuals already and happy members number about 99%! So how about you?

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Something-You-Probably-Did-Not-Know-About-Your-Vehicle-s-Fuel-System/62356

Protect Yourself from Car Repairs Scams

2008-03-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

Things have changes significantly since the early days of the automobile. What was once relative simple machinery (seen from today's point of view), it has developed to become a very complex system that makes a car what it is.

This has some benefits, as into modern cars more and more technology and features are added, but also a series of drawbacks. When it comes to repairing your own car, things have become more complicated. Modern vehicles have many computers that effectively control everything a car does and a lot of electric schemes and that is why repairing your car in your own back yard is not feasible to almost anyone with a car newer than 15 years old .

Because cars nowadays very complex. Everybody recommends going to a large repair shop when something goes wrong. But in the same time some car repair shops are more likely to take advantage of their customers' ignorance.

No one expects you to become a car mechanic overnight, but if you are ignorant about your car and car repairing, mechanics in some car repair shops can take advantage of your ignorance.

In addition, spending months in the court of justice arguing against the shop that has repaired your car is not the way you want to spend your time, I would presume. There are couple ways to protect yourself and your wallet from car repair shop owners that try to take advantage of people when it comes to their cars.

Before you go to the repair shop, do some research about every service center you are considering going to. Check out the shop through ever means available to you, such as word-of-mouth, the Internet (people can post on their blogs or in forums their experience with car repair shops), or other resources (a very valuable resource for finding information about a certain company is the Better Business Bureau).

These resources (including the Better Business Bureau) can be found both online and offline and they are valuable as they offer you a convenient way to check a business's standing and whether there are any unresolved complaints against them. Also, talk to your friends and relatives to find out what car shops they go to and if they are satisfied with the mechanics and the prices.

Second, ask for recommendations. If you do not even know where to start, or you would rather go to a shop with which someone you know has had personal experience, you can ask around for recommendations.

For example, a friend's recommendation that he has brought his car to the same mechanic for ten years and is satisfied with the work done is a very convincing argument. When you go to a repair shop you have never gone before, be sure to ask many questions.

This is perfectly normal and they will see that you are very interested in their services and your car. You should ask about their prices, their guarantees or warrantees, how much experience their mechanics have, whether they have won any awards, and how they handle customer complaints and other similar questions.

As important, it is to show an interest in your car. Do not leave it alone with the mechanics, stay with them when they look at it to be sure that they look everywhere and in this way, you can avoid them making you to pay for things they never fixed on your car.
Finally, when they tell you what the problem is, request to see the problem. This is in fact your legal right and it is just another method to avoid being abused by the repair shop.

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Protect-Yourself-from-Car-Repairs-Scams/62641

Hondas Zero Pollution Solution

2008-03-21T02:05:00.001-07:00

Honda's new Clarity IS absolutely a step in the best direction however there is already somebody standing in the winner's circle. It is a saner pollution solution but there is an even better pollution solution. It is an historic milestone from one of the biggest players in the vehicle making industry. And for all these good reasons which I will now share some information on, I applaud it!

The Clarity sedan will (supposedly) provide an EPA-certified sixty eight MPG. The Clarity also will ace all safety regulations, start in temperatures as low as 22 degrees below zero and keep its cool in a desert drive out to Vegas (high heat). Refueling is still a pain as it requires that you have a getting-smaller-but-still-bulky natural gas powered home unit, which, as it runs on natural gas, seems to defeat the whole purpose or that you reside nearby Santa Monica, Torrance or Irvine. For now. However, the tank will still have some distance in it after you have driven 250 miles. Honda's Clarity will be coming to a Honda dealer near you this summer (2008) (assuming you live in or near one of those three cities), Your Honda dealer will be please to lease you a Clarity for "only" $600 a month.
The FCX Clarity utilizes Honda's V Flow stack in combination with a new smaller and efficient lithium ion battery and a single hydrogen storage tank to operate the vehicle's electric drive engine. The fuel cell stack operates as the vehicle's main power source. Hydrogen mixes with atmospheric oxygen in the fuel cell stack, where energy from the reaction is converted into electric power which then propels the vehicle. Additional energy is also generated through the conservation of kinetic energy from vehicle braking and deceleration (this is called regenerative braking), that energy is stored along with surplus energy which comes from the fuel cell in the lithium ion battery pack, and supplements power originating from the fuel cell, when it is required. The vehicle's only emission is water.
The distribution of the Clarity will be for starters only in Southern California. That region is currently the only place in the country that contains a number of hydrogen refueling stations adequate for sustaining use of the car. These stations are the equivalent to a gas station, only designed for use by fuel cell powered cars. Honda is advising potential customers that they should not make plans for any long trips outside of the Los Angeles and Orange County areas.

It's a shame that only one hundred Clarity's will be driving around in the Los Angeles area.
But I gather that for those one hundred drivers they will be in a position where the Jones's ain't gonna have a chance of keeping up with them!

So the question becomes... if you are not one of the fortunate one hundred that
a. resides in specific parts of Los Angeles
b. have $600/month easily available
c. can't compute the numbers and realize that they are paying two or three times as much for a car so as to save perhaps $100-200/month on gas.
d. Don't mind having a highly explosive hydrogen storage tank in your car as you drive on the 405. (In fact, mark my words, I am sad to have to look into my crystal ball and project that one of these Clarity cars will get involved in an accident that will leave a crater on some Los Angeles freeway and the thought of a hydrogen powered car will be have a lable on it forever like the 1973 Pinto so that the manufacture of such will be abandoned). I hate to be cynical but...

Ok, so...what does one do?
Well there is a solution that you can use to modify any vehicle, even yours, at very minimal cost, using odds and end hardware store items and which will do most of the things that the new Honda Clarity will do but with no inconvenience and without the risk of cruising around town with a hydrogen "bomb" (storage tank). It is available to you right now!

If you are unindoctrinated, WATER4GAS is providing information for a fee which individuals can use in their garage or wherever to build a small gizmo which instills hydrogen into the fuel/air mixture that their car or truck runs on.
The process makes bite sized particles out of the particles that the system uses as fuel. Therefore the system gets to use much more of it.
By doing this you can minimumly expect to improve your gas mileage by 12%. But many are obtaining 30-50% improvement or even more. Those goblets must have been pretty darn huge in some engines before. But with W4G they are made usable so you can improve your gas mileage.
It also helps to lower emissions significantly.
This information has been purchased by over 9000 car owners already and happy members number about 99%! So how about you?

Songwriter, entrepreneur, consumer advocate and activist, GARKO, advises that at the present time you cannot buy a car that runs on water but that the ones coming on the market in the next five years are planning to charge too much for the conversion. But he can show you how to convert your car to run on water which is the best engine modification to save gas For a list of current gas prices in your neighborhood email garko@startlingdiscoveries.info

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Honda-s-Zero-Pollution-Solution/62360

Get Ready Prior To Vehicle Shipping

2008-03-21T01:42:00.000-07:00

As the customer is interested to make auto transport in the state, they can contact the shipping company available in the market. More number of companies is coming forward to offer the services to the people required. When clients decided to transit the vehicles from one place to another, appropriate preparation should be made by the customer for the motor. Prior to shipment of motors, certain factors are to be considered for preparing to move. Most of the shipping companies will make prior inspection before they make shipment of vehicle. This is so because in some cases the vehicles may get damaged before they transmitted. The customer is advised to prepare vehicle for shipment with following requirements

Making inspection of motors enables the customer to know whether the vehicle is damaged before transit or not. Carefully inspect the vehicles you are moving for transit. Check whether all parts of the auto are inspected from the top to the bottom.

Make sure that the auto transmitted is operable at working condition or not. Generally, most of companies will carry the vehicles either at operable or non operable working condition. As per the requirement of the customer, they can choose the type of shipping.

Incase if your vehicle carries any damages, please inform to the auto shipper that the vehicles is at such condition. It enables both the shipper and customer to be on safer side.

Remove all customized accessories like spoilers, lights, mirrors and alarms from the car before making transit. When the customized accessories are removed from the car, it enables the customer to remain hassle free.

Make sure that the tank for the motor is not completed fully. So, better don't fill the tank completely at the time of shipment and incase if it carries fuel, remove completely from tank.

Check the tires carefully before making shipment. Test the tires whether they are good condition or not. Spare parts are the important requirement of automobile, so if feels more important remove from the vehicle and inform it to the mover. Remove the gas filled and apply cover to protect the car against damages.

Make sure that the shipping company is a licensed, insured, guaranteed and professional mover. Clarify the price details and create a shipping order.

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Get-Ready-Prior-To-Vehicle-Shipping/62380

Replacing Your Bumpers

2008-03-21T01:12:00.001-07:00

In the summer, what can be better in the afternoon than taking your rollerblades out for a spin and feel that cool breeze that is blowing on your face. The annoying part comes when that silly annoying rock comes into the picture from apparently nowhere and you all of the sudden kiss the concrete breaking your knees, and ruining your whole day.

Of course, by wearing helmets, pads you will stand up better after the fall and you will be able to go faster to that moment of joy. Even if you may not see it directly, the same scenario is plausible for an automobile, and this means that even if nowadays seems implicit, that even automobiles need a lot of protection too, in order for you to have a smooth ride.

On this subject of replacing your bumpers, you should know that on the market, there are many automotive parts available, including bumpers of all kind, quality ones and cheap ones, but they all serve the same purpose - protecting your car.

Think about a bumper as a temporary zone between the important parts of the car and the thing that hits it. It is not always another car, it can be a tree, or anything else, the main thing is that about 1.2 million bumpers are being destroyed because of accidents, and that is just alarming enough for automobile manufacturers and their customers.

As customers become more and more aware of how risky it just became to drive your own car; because of the high speeds, most of the cars can reach, and because of the numerous drivers who do not really seem to know how to drive carefully.

However, if the client demands more protection, the automobile industry is ready for it, bringing many innovations in this domain too. Bumpers are just one of these innovations, and it evolved from a simple strap of iron to a very important part that serves as a vehicle frame protector, no matter the collision.

Of course, what you all must understand is that even if bumpers may protect your car it does not mean that they should be considered indestructible. I mentioned above how many that are destroyed every year, therefore, with all the innovations brought to this part, a car accident remains a car accident.

Yet, these car bumpers, aside from their protection purpose they do not do just that, at least not nowadays. Aside from the enhanced safety levels, a well-mounted bumper can also add some points to that aesthetic level of the car making it look better or worse.

A bumper is great if you want to add a little more form to your car, or enhance its toughness because if the bumpers are well picked you can obtain a wonderful view.

I mentioned several times in this article, bumpers should be picked with care based on two main facts: the first thing is that the new bumper you want to mount should first fit the safety level. This means that you should not buy a bumper that makes your car less safe than it was with the old one. The second thing is that the bumper should not make the car look bad. Of course, this last one is not actually a criteria, but it is important in some ways.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Replacing-Your-Bumpers/144926

Driving with a Good Breather

2008-03-21T00:56:00.001-07:00

The atmosphere is home to numerous elements that cannot seen by the naked eye. Some of these elements do have effects to our bodies and may even cause certain allergies. An example is the medical condition called allergic rhinitis, which is a mixture of the symptoms present in runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. This is caused by airborne particles like dust, dander, and pollens, and although one could assume that being inside his home or car perfectly avoids such condition, he is mistaken. Airborne particles can still enter the home or penetrate the car's ventilation system. To ensure that Honda owners and passengers breathe only dust-free air, a Honda cabin filter is installed.

Honda cabin filters are designed to screen the air entering the vehicle. It blocks the dust, pollens, and other possible irritants to the respiratory track or even to the skin. European-made vehicles were the first to install cabin filters. Now, this straining component is also being widely used already in Asian models. We may not notice all the bacteria and unknown elements coming inside the car cabin, but through the use of the Honda cabin filter we can avoid breathing these elements in.

Commonly, the cabin air filter is a pleated-paper filter found in the outside-air intake of the passenger compartment. Some cabin filters are shaped like the engine air filter while others are made to fit in a specific car's outside-air intake. Since it is used to trap harmful particles, the Honda cabin filter requires regular maintenance. A replacement is recommended after every 15,000 miles or at the rate dictated in your car's manual. Another way of determining whether the filter needs replacement is observing the quality of air in the car's interior. The filter is prone to get clogged with all the elements it screens. If this happens, airflow from the cabin vents can lessen and may let allergens enter the cabin air stream. If a replacement is needed, feel free to check out our site for the most efficient Honda cabin filters.

Breathe clean and dust-free air in your vehicle. Order your Honda cabin filter here at Discount Honda Parts today to get discounts and free shipping.

Commonly, the cabin air filter is a pleated-paper filter found in the outside-air intake of the passenger compartment. Some cabin filters are shaped like the engine air filter while others are made to fit in a specific car's outside-air intake. Since it is used to trap harmful particles, the Honda cabin filter requires regular maintenance. A replacement is recommended after every 15,000 miles or at the rate dictated in your car's manual. Another way of determining whether the filter needs replacement is observing the quality of air in the car's interior. The filter is prone to get clogged with all the elements it screens. If this happens, airflow from the cabin vents can lessen and may let allergens enter the cabin air stream. If a replacement is needed, feel free to check out our site for the most efficient Honda cabin filters.

Breathe clean and dust-free air in your vehicle. Order your Honda cabin filter here at Discount Honda Parts today to get discounts and free shipping.

About the Author:

For more information about your parts needs like Honda cabin filter visit your trusted online source. Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Source: http://www.upublish.info/Article/Driving-with-a-Good-Breather/125570

Biofuels And Nitrous Oxide

2008-03-20T10:04:00.001-07:00

After people living at the Riverbend Farms subdivision observed that a yucky black, fetid substance had begun fouling the Black Warrior River, which runs through their backyards, Mark Storey, a retired petroleum plant worker, jumped into his boat to follow it upstream to discover where it was coming from.
A cocktail of Oil and grease from a biodiesel plant had been released.
The source turned out to be a converted chemical factory that had been transformed into Alabama's first biodiesel plant, a refinery which exists to process soybean oil into earth-friendly fuel.
"I'm in favor of the plant," a resident said. "But it was shocking that a facility such as that one would produce anything that could stream into the river without taking the necessary safeguards."
But the oily slime on the water returned again and again, and a chemical inspection of a sample taken last March revealed that oily slime spewing from the plant - was four hundred and fifty times higher than permit levels allow for, and that it had traveled at least two miles downstream.
The seepage, at the Alabama Biodiesel Corporation plant here around 17 miles from Tuscaloosa, are very much like others which have come from biofuel plants in the Midwest. The discharges, which can be hazardous to birds and fish, have many people without an understanding over the obvious incongruity of pollution from an industry that sells products with the promise of blue skies and clear streams.
Iowa leads the country in biofuel production, with forty two ethanol and biodiesel refineries actively working now and eighteen more plants being developed, according to the Renewable Fuels Association. In the summer of 2006, a Cargill biodiesel facility in Iowa Falls illegally disposed of 135,000 gallons of liquid oil and grease, which ran into a nearby tributary killing hundreds of fish.
According to the authorities biodiesel is safe for the environment, biodegradable and safe for sensitive environments, but some environmental scientists have warned that position understates its potential environmental impact.
"They're really considered nontoxic, as you would presume," said Bruce P. Hollebone, an environmental researcher with Environment Canada in Ottawa and one of the world's leading experts on the potential ecological consequences of vegetable oil and glycerin spills.
"You can eat the stuff, after all," Mr. Hollebone said. "But as is the case with many organic substances, oil and glycerin deplete the oxygen content of water with great speed, and that will suffocate fish and other life. And for birds, a vegetable oil spill is equally as lethal as an Exxon Valdeez kind of oil spill."
In my viewpoint I think the entire situation is "for the birds" and much better solution.
For those who are unfamiliar, WATER4GAS is providing information at a low price which car owners can use in their garage or wherever to create a small gizmo which instills hydrogen into the gas/air mixture that their car runs on.
The process makes smaller particles out of the particles that the system burns as fuel. Therefore the system is able to use considerably more of the gas.
With WATER4GAS you can reasonably expect to improve your MPG by 12%. But many are obtaining 30-50% improvement or even more. Those goblets must have been pretty "blankin'" huge in some engines before. But with WATER4GAS they are made usable so you can improve your MPG.
It also helps reduce emissions significantly.
This information has been purchased by over 9000 car owners already and happy members number about 99%! AND it has killed less birds than baseball pitcher Randy Johnson

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Biofuels-And-Nitrous-Oxide/62042

Your Driving Test- Relax And Learn

2008-03-20T09:34:00.001-07:00

To carry out driving you need to learn driving. Before you learn driving you must know the rules and regulations related to it. Also you must have a provisional driving licence.

Make sure that you have a good coach to teach you. Keep safe while driving and follow all your traffic rules. The instructor who is going to teach you must have a full licence and must be able to handle you and your vehicle properly. You must be keen in choosing your vehicle on which you will learn to drive.

You must know all the basic things about your vehicle.
Your vehicle must be appropriate to learn i.e. it must have all the basic things necessary for driving. You must have at least crossed the minimum age necessary for driving. As you are learning the vehicle there must be a L symbol on your vehicle.

You must not take your vehicle in the crowded places. You must be aware of your surroundings while driving and must not panic if something goes wrong. Once you have completed with the training then for driving your vehicle you need to take a permanent licence and for that you will have to give a driving test.

In this test you will have to demonstrate that you are able to drive a vehicle properly along with obeying all the traffic signals. This test is to be given in front of a few authorized people.

You will also need to give a theory test to get a permanent licence. For driving heavy vehicles you will have to follow a little different procedure. You can even apply online for your driving licence. Now here something for you which you know very well about yourself and that is your nerves for driving and driving test. Only the thought of sitting in front of some people taking your driving test makes many of you afraid.

Upon concentrating on the people with driving test nerves you can observe a few symptoms, trembling hands, increased breath, sweating forehead and palm, feeling tired and afraid, etc. To overcome such nerves you need to follow few things. You must not relax completely as you are driving a vehicle and you need to be attentive for that.

You really don't know these nerves can be helpful for you. As many of the athletes does that. There are few tips for you to follow to reduce your nerves. Control your breath at the time of the test, take a little walk before the test, now keep smiling and try to focus on the reason for what you are here.

Even though you made a mistake continue without any fear. Another way of reducing your nerves is by the way of hypnosis. In hypnosis a person namely known as a hypnotist guides you with instructions to your brain to concentrate and keep an eye on what's happening.

It actually informs your brain, your subconscious brain to be alert at the time of test and thus it overcomes your nerves. You know, your subconscious mind is more obedient to your instructions with respect to your conscious mind. In hypnosis a person gets more aware of his surrounding with the help of his subconscious mind.

Thus he can overcome all his nerves with only few instructions to his brain.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Your-Driving-Test--Relax-And-Learn/144609

Protecting Your Car against Severe Damage

2008-03-20T09:18:00.001-07:00

Your car's bumper is there for a specific purpose: to protect you and your passengers from the impact of minor collisions. More than an elegant piece of bended steel or fiberglass, it reduces the collision impact so that you and your passengers are spared from shock and probable injury. A Honda bumper consists of a number of parts, namely the cover, the crushable energy absorbers, the piston and mechanical energy absorbers, the bumper bracket, and the Honda bumper reinforcement.

A bumper cover is constructed out of thermoset plastic or thermoplastic. The shock absorbers are located between the bumper cover and the Honda bumper reinforcement. Made of foam or plastic, this part usually has springs. In the case of low-impact collisions, the shock absorbers let the bumper compress and return to its original state, so it doesn't get incredibly damaged. Meanwhile, the Honda bumper reinforcements are found behind the crushable energy absorbers. They may be constructed from steel, aluminum, plastic, or composite materials. Depending on the vehicle type, steel reinforcements can be graded mild, high strength, or ultra high strength in terms of toughness. The bumper reinforcement is a vital component of the bumper assembly. Bumpers may dispense some of its other parts, but the reinforcement must always be present. In fact, some bumpers do not have any cover, and their reinforcement is located before the mechanical energy absorber. Others have the cover and brackets with the reinforcement between them. Some bumpers are composed only of the bumper reinforcement and the brackets.

Despite the wide variety of bumpers available today, it is clear that the bumper reinforcement remains an integral component. In Honda vehicles, therefore, they need to be always in top condition. If not, a replacement can be done easily. Our site has all sorts of bumper reinforcements designed to suit all Honda vehicles. Rest assured that our delivery is prompt and that our products are made from durable materials.

Ensure yours and your passengers' safety with a durable Honda bumper reinforcement. Get one today and enjoy free shipping only here at Discount Honda Parts.

Despite the wide variety of bumpers available today, it is clear that the bumper reinforcement remains an integral component. In Honda vehicles, therefore, they need to be always in top condition. If not, a replacement can be done easily. Our site has all sorts of bumper reinforcements designed to suit all Honda vehicles. Rest assured that our delivery is prompt and that our products are made from durable materials.

Ensure yours and your passengers' safety with a durable Honda bumper reinforcement. Get one today and enjoy free shipping only here at Discount Honda Parts.

About the Author:

For more information about your parts needs like bumper reinforcement visit your trusted online source. Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Source: http://www.upublish.info/Article/Protecting-Your-Car-against-Severe-Damage/125571

Biofuel Causes Pollution

2008-03-20T08:30:00.001-07:00

Last week, a deputy division director of environmental maintenance for the Missouri Natural Resources Dept, said she was warned almost a year ago by her counterparts in other states that manufacturers of biodiesel were illegally disposing of glycerin, the primary emissions of biodiesel processing, mixed with methanol, another waste product that is categorized as environmentally toxic.
Glycerin, an alcohol that is most commonly nontoxic and can be sold for secondary uses, but first it has to be cleaned, a process that is expensive and complicated. Greatly increased demand for biodiesel has flooded the market with excess glycerin, this, of course, has resulted in it becoming less cost-effective to clean and sell.
In October, an anonymous caller alerted the department that a tanker truck was illegally disposing of milky white goop into Belle Fountain Ditch, which is one of the many man-made channels that drain Missouri's Bootheel section. That milky white goo was found to be glycerin from a biodiesel plant.
In January, a grand jury indicted a Missouri businessman in the discharge, which destroyed at least twenty-five thousand fish and eliminated an endangered species of mussels.
Back in Alabama, Nelson Brooke of Black Warrior Riverkeeper, a 501c3 entity with the purpose of safeguarding and restoring the Black Warrior River and its tributaries, got notified of a fish kill in the Autumn of 2006 that stretched 20 miles downstream from Moundville. Even though Mr. Brooke included in the report that found oil in the water in the vidinty of the dead fish, the state Department of Environmental Management concluded that naturally occuring, seasonal shifts in oxygen levels in the water might have been the culprit. The agency did not charge Alabama Biodiesel.
In August of last year, Black Warrior Riverkeeper, in a complaint filed in Federal District Court, documented at least twenty-four instances when oil was spotted in the water near the plant.

MORE HEADACHES FOR BIOFUEL

Ethanol combustion was determined to be significantly more toxic than gasoline for human health. "Ethanol is being promoted as a healthful and renewable fuel that has the ability to reduce global warming and air pollution", said Stanford University environmental scientist Mark Jacobson.

But his predict that fatalities and illnesses connected to breathing conditions would increase if automobiles used fuel that has high ethanol levels.

One test compared gasoline powered vehicles to E85 fueled vehicles. E85 is 85% ethanol and 15% gas. "We concluded that E85 vehicles diminish environmental levels of two carcinogens, benzene and butadiene, but increases two different ones, formaldehyde and acetaldehyde. As a result, cancer rates for E85 are likely to be similar to those for gasoline. However, in some parts of the country, E85 significantly increased ozone, a prime ingredient of smog", Jacobson said.
And with that statement, I confess I am now totally befuddled. I had been lead to believe that the whole thing that researchers are trying to remedy is the depletion of the ozone and now this guy is saying that additional ozone will mean more smog??
Tell ya what... Just forget the whole thing!
Much too complicated, even for the experts, to resolve. Besides a significantly simpler solution exists!
If you are unindoctrinated, such as the "experts", WATER4GAS is providing information at a low price which individuals can use at home to put together a small gizmo which instills hydrogen into the gasoline/air mixture that their car runs on.
What this does is make smaller particles out of the particles that the engine uses as fuel. So the engine is able to use considerably more of it.
With WATER4GAS you can minimumly expect to lower your fuel consumption by 12%. In reality though many are getting thirty to fifty percent improvement or significantly more. Those goblets "musta" been pretty "blankin'" big in some engines before. But with WATER4GAS they are made usable so you can lower your fuel consumption.
It also helps make emissions significantly cleaner.
This information has been purchased by over NINE THOUSAND people already and happy members number about 99%! So that's a start!

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Biofuel-Causes-Pollution/62046

Used Jaguar Car

2008-03-19T11:47:00.001-07:00

Picture this, you buy yourself a brand new 'fully loaded 'Jaguar and just as a sign of your love, you decide to register the Jaguar on your wife's name. Sounds romantic? Well not exactly, until recently our website buyyourcar.co.uk was pretty much dealing in new and used cars. It was only when one of our registered users decided to sell off her used Jaguar did we realize what a big mistake it is to register a car in one's wife's name.
To begin with, let me tell you about the car in question. The used car that was up for sale was a used Jaguar S type, with a V8 engine and automatic transmission. The car was 'fully loaded' and came equipped with a state of the art navigation system, cruise control, and power assisted steering. Like all Jaguar S types, the car came equipped with the usual features like central locking, climate control and remote central locking. Anyway, back to the story; as I mentioned earlier, the Jaguar was being used by the husband but was registered in the wife's name. It seems the husband was cheating on the wife and used to pick up his mistress in the Jaguar to boot.
It was only a matter of time before the wife found out about her husband's indiscretion and decided to take a little revenge. She dumped a can full of red paint on the Jaguar, and pretty much ruined the paint work. It was probably later on that the wife discovered that the Jaguar was hers by law, and she decided to 'repossess' her property. Needless to say, nothing could stop her from driving away in her husband's brand new Jaguar and it was only a matter of time before the car was up for sale on our website. What is equally interesting about the whole affair is that a used Jaguar S type costs between £ 15,000 and £ 17,000; however the wife decided to sell the car for nearly half the market value.
Although events like the one mentioned above are very rare, there is an important lesson that needs to be learnt. Nothing lasts forever, and one should register a vehicle in his/her partner's name only if they are sure it will not end up on a used car website for sale. What is also interesting about the above mentioned incident is that the wife openly admitted to vandalizing the car, and even gave a reassurance that the paint work can be fixed easily.
Although not all cars for sale on our website have such interesting stories behind them, there is a possibility that used car buyers will find cars that will be available at a much lower price than the market. If you are looking for used cars, always look out for deals like the ones mentioned above. People that are relocating to another country or want to upgrade to a better car are always ready to compromise a little on their vehicle's selling price.
The voice mail message
The seller of the used Jaguar was available on voice mail all day long via her mobile phone. Unfortunately, unlike the advert, a transcript of the voice mail might not make 'U' reading and is best left unmentioned on the site. What is worth mentioning is that the seller was so confident that she would receive enough queries regarding the Jaguar, that she changed her voice mail to cater to the large number of inquiries that she would receive. It is important to remember that such cases are few and far apart, but there is an interesting lesson to be learnt from the whole exercise: hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, and cheap Jaguars only come along ever so rarely.

For used cars and new cars visit www.buyyourcar.co.uk

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Used-Jaguar-Car/61606

How Personal Car Leasing Can Be Cheaper Than Buying

2008-03-19T11:17:00.001-07:00

Personal car leasing is a great option for those of you that want to drive round the latest model of car but do not want to be tied down to a loan or suffer the effects of depreciation. Cars are well known for losing value over time and new cars are particularly prone to this. It is reported that new cars lose over 15 percent of their value by simply leaving the showroom forecourt.

This means that buying a new car can be extremely expensive; especially if you plan to upgrade your car in a few years time. Many people are managing to avoid the effects of depreciation by utilising personal car hire. This type of car leasing is designed for the individual and unlike commercial car leasing is a great choice for individuals and families that want to benefit from a vehicle without having to have ownership of the vehicle.

Personal car leasing can make using a vehicle cheaper than if you are to buy one. It also gives the person leasing the vehicle a clearer picture about how much they will have to set aside to run a car. A leasing deal is usually arranged with monthly payments in mind and as a result the amount of money that the person pays out every month is very easy to track. This type of car use makes managing funds simple as the person paying the money knows exactly how much they have to set aside month to month. It is also possible to arrange a deal that includes insurance and maintenance cover so that you will never be hit by unexpected costs if something goes wrong.

The range of vehicle on offer for personal car leasing is massive. There are plenty of companies that offer this service and finding the right deal for you should be straightforward with the use of the internet. You can find deals on all types of vehicles for a number of different time variations. Typically car leasing contracts are arranged over a multiple number of months.

The most common type of leasing deal is set over a period of 24 months (two years). It is also common for deals to be arranged over a 12 month (one year) period and also a 36 month period (three years). The cost of the monthly payment is usually less if the arrangement is made over a longer period of time. This means that if you can prepare to take out a leasing deal over a longer period of time then it will probably save you money.

Pretty much every single type of vehicle is available for leasing and as a result you can use leasing to get your hands on the keys of your dream car. Because you are not paying off the cost of the car you are often able to afford a vehicle that would typically be out of your budget.

The monthly payments are often less than a repayment on a car loan and as a result you can turn the money you save into getting a bigger and better car. The vehicle will of course not become yours at the end of the time period but that may also work to your benefit as you will not have to worry about selling it on all you will have to do is hand the car back to the leasing company.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/How-Personal-Car-Leasing-Can-Be-Cheaper-Than-Buying/144346

Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR is the New Knight Rider Star Car

2008-03-19T11:01:00.001-07:00

The most powerful Ford Mustang ever to be created is the new 2008 Ford Mustang Shelby Gt500KR. Fittingly, this supercharged car is the new K.I.T.T. or Knight Industries Three Thousand for the highly anticipated Knight Rider TV series. The producers of the show couldn't have made a better choice in this TV series update of the 80's classic.

The Ford Mustang remains to be one of the greatest automobile success stories of all time. With its famous powerful engine that the Mustang is known for, almost half of American sports car owners have a Mustang. The Ford Mustang is basically the icon for American muscle and sheer power, named after a steed that resembles such characteristics.

The 2008 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR is the most powerful Mustang ever produced. It packs a 540-horsepower 5.4 liter supercharged V8 engine along with a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack. It also sports excellent suspension tuning, carbon composite hood, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a special design which drew inspiration from classic Shelby Mustangs. Its exterior is complete with special striping in celebration of the Mustang's 40th anniversary.

The interiors of the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR has a sporty look and feel to entice most racing enthusiasts and even casual car owners. The digital LED display in the front looks spectacular along with other instrumentation display icons. The black racing-inspired seats are perfect for the Mustang's rugged and powerful persona.

The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.77 seconds. It can travel a fourth of a mile within 3.87 seconds. Even with its 3500-pound frame it can still achieve such results. It has a titanium and aluminum body with a front engine on-demand all wheel drive chassis. Its V8 internal combustion engine is equipped with a Whipple supercharger for added boost.

Further specs of the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR are available in certified Mustang dealers near you. You can also view full specifications of this super car online. Take note that the real specs of this car and the specs used in the TV series are quite different.

In the new TV series Knight Rider, the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR is the new Knight Industries Three Thousand which replaced the Knight Industries Two Thousand. The new KITT also has features that are quite similar to the old KITT in the series. However, many years have passed since the last Knight Rider series and much have changed in terms of the power and design of the car.

The new KITT features a Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR which is packed with a 550-horsepower solar hybrid engine, sports suspension, metallic paint with nanotechnology camouflage system, morphing license plate, Xenon headlamps with night vision, self-regenerating armor plating, high speed internet connection, voice activated GPS, military satellite access, biomedical scanner, remote access, and other high tech features and gadgetry. The TV series reprises the role of KITT as the most advanced car in the world and nothing else comes close to the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in the real world standards.

About the Author:

For more information on the KITT Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR, be sure to drop by MyMustangSite.com. Join our UNIQUE site that is a Myspace site for mustangs with nearly 10,000 members!

Source: http://www.upublish.info/Article/Ford-Mustang-Shelby-GT500KR-is-the-New-Knight-Rider-Star-Car/126522

Survival China Travel Tips and Tricks(PART II)

2008-03-19T06:21:00.000-07:00

These China Travel Tips, Survival Techniques, will help you get around and make your trip to China easier, so you will be able to experience the real China with a little less stress. China is an odd beast that needs to be respected; the major cities, Beijing, Shanghai, and Xian, all have their own personalities.

Some complex situations that you think would be an organizational disaster turn out to be great and you wonder afterward what all the fuss and worry was about. Then the simplest of tasks can turn out to be a major calamity.

This is when you have what we call here a "China day".

These days come and go and are part of the experience of everyday travel in China. One needs to have an open mind when travelling China. It is a place with thousands of years of history and culture that is trying overnight to adapt to Western ways of living.

You need to have a very open mind when you Travel in China. I have listed below a few China Travel Tips that will make life that wee bit more bearable on your Travel China experience.
1. China Travel Tips - Shopping

* China is a shopper's paradise, Markets, Bargains; Top labels... anything and everything if you have the time. With clothes, the larger (Western) sizes can be quite hard to find, however in the major cities where you get a lot of tourist traffic, you can find them.

* Electrical gear, DVD's, Cameras, stuff like this is not worth buying in China, Hong Kong is still the best place for this.

* Store hours in the major cities are from 10is to 10pm, 7 days a week.

* Visa card is still the best card to carry, with ATM's in good supply all with PLUS access etc. There is usually a surcharge for use of VISA, MasterCard or other forms of credit card.

* Wait on purchasing if you can, look around to get a feel for the prices. The Chinese are VERY experienced at selling and know that we halve the opening price when bargaining. In the markets go for 25% of what they first ask; go so low that they let you walk away. This will give you an idea of the bottom price. The resulting end-price will probably be around 40% to 50% of where they started.

Whatever the market people say, they are used to pushing and haggling for best prices. Do not worry about being too hard, they are used to it and will not sell you an item unless they make a profit. Don't be concerned with the apparently hurt body language when you go low - it is all part of the game. As soon as they have wrapped up your first purchase, they will try to sell you something more. Remember to keep smiling and having fun
while bargaining.

2. China Travel Tips - Medical Treatment and Records

* Most hotels will have a doctor that you can see. In the major hotels English will be spoken.

* Always take a small first aid kit, cold remedy, headache tablets at the very least. WATSONS is a very large chain chemist. Most of the remedies, tablets etc, that you may require should be in these shops. These shops are all over China.

* There is a great network of pharmacy type shops; these are indicated by a Green Cross. There will always be a 24 hr Green Cross pharmacy in the city you are in. It is handy to carry a Phase book, as no one will speak English, however you will end up with something that will help.

* INPORTANT POINT - for most of the mass produced packet type medicines, the packaging will be written in Chinese on one side, English on the other. However in the shops you only see the Chinese side. Have a good look, turn the packs over; it gives you a lot more confidence knowing you can read the package.

* If you have a specific medical issue, take records, most of the Doctors will have OK written/reading English, even though their oral English will be poor.

3. China Travel Tips - Telephone

* Using the phone is as easy as at home. However the person picking it up will not speak English or have very broken English... the Major 4- or 5-Star Hotels will all be OK.

* What is worth doing is buying a Chinese Telecom SIM card, they are about RMB100 and with this you get RMB50 in calls, the other 50 is for the price of the SIM card; this SIM card will go into all major brand phones and work OK.

By doing this, people can reach you within and out of China if there is an emergency. If you have a couple of phones, you can short (txt) message each other (SMS). Also you are able to call your tourist guide, hotel etc if you have any major problems. It is a cheap way to keep in touch.

Note: Before you buy a Chinese SIM card, check that it will work in your Cell/Mobile phone. There are plenty of China Telecom shops that can help.

4. China Travel Tips on when NOT to move around China

* Spring Festival, this would be the Chinese New Year time, around the end of January/Early February

* Early May; Labour day Holidays

* Early October; National Day Holidays

Of all the China Travel Tips National Day is the biggest one. Millions of Chinese travel at these holiday times of the year. Most are travelling back to home towns or visiting family. Hotels, trains, planes, cars, buses, and roads are all crowded to the maximum. Major congestion, everywhere.

Also travel fares are at their full price. No discounts are offered! Stay in one place and enjoy where you are. It's best and causes fewer hassles.

5. China Travel Tips - TV

* If you want to watch TV, most of the major hotels will have cable and if you are in the smaller places, the national channel, CCTV9 is in English. Over the last couple of years it has got a lot better, with some great China Travel Tips programs, news and views on people and places around China.

6. China Travel Tips - Airport Tax

* There is a "construction fee" at almost all airports.

Domestic flights RMB 50 International flights RMB 90 - which is to be paid in local currency. Just recently, tickets are being tissued with the Construction Tax included; however make sure you have the Tax money with you just to make sure. About the author John Mckenna John Mckenna is from New Zealand and has been traveling within China for more than 3 years. For more on China Travel information, please visit http://www.chinatravel.com, the portal on China Travel and China Tour, and http://www.travel-the-real-china.com, experienced based Travel and Tour information on the wonders of Travel in China.

For More Free Resources visit www.tours-guide.com

Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Survival-China-Travel-Tips-and-Tricks-PART-II-/61730

When you want to buy a new car - part I

2008-03-12T02:23:00.001-07:00

The first thing that you should know when you want to buy a new car is that both you and the dealer are looking to get the better end of the deal.

If you don't learn anything else from this article you will learn how to walk away from the deal with both sides being satisfied. A good deal is a win-win situation for both parties. Most of the time it is the buyer that leaves unsatisfied.

If you are looking to buy a car you should begin with these tips.

- You should purchase your new car at or around Christmas time because with everybody buying their Christmas gifts. Car sales are down and it forces dealerships to up their sales strategies Salesmen are more willing to haggle down to your prices to close the deal.

- You can also get a good deal from July to October because that is the time of year when dealerships are trying to get rid of their old inventory to make way for next years models.

- Purchasing a car online is becoming very popular. Watch for good rebates and incentives online and shop around. Print out your information from the best quotes and bring it to the dealer that you are most willing to work with. Bringing in lower quotes from another company might be your best bet in getting a good deal.

Dealerships scam
It's a good idea to bring a copy of your credit score to the dealership with you. It can lower your interest rates on your car loan. Your car dealer should not know more about you than you do.

You can avoid a common scam that dealerships pull. You will often hear that your financing fell through and that you have to respond by paying more money on your loan. Don't believe it. It's another reason for you to get a copy of your credit score.

Another common scam by dealership salesmen is for them to tell you that they have found you a lower rate, but that they want you to re-sign your loan papers. Usually, that is a downright lie. Once they pull up your financing information, they have the upper hand if you don't know the details about your credit information. You can get a copy of your credit information free online at Annual Credit Report.

Don't bring in a car for trade in if you still owe money on it. The dealership rarely pays the rest of the loan on time which will result in you having to pay a great deal of late fees to the bank. If you do decide to bring a car in that you owe money on, get it in writing from the dealership that they will pay the balance on the car within 10 days and/or they will pay the late fees if they fail to pay the car off in a timely manner.

Sometimes a dealership may not have all of your options and must order the car directly from the dealer ship. If this happens they will often ask you to pay $500-$1000 for a deposit on the car. Try not to pay more than $500 and be sure to pay with a credit card. Sometimes the dealership will tell you that there was a price increase on the vehicle and will want more money. If you pay with a credit card you have room to dispute the amount being taken from you. If you pay by check, you can just consider the money gone.

You should never buy a car when you are in desperate need. A dealer will see that and take advantage of your situation. You should never wait until an old car is dead before searching for a new car. Give yourself time to shop around for the right car and get the best deal possible. Desperation often clouds your judgment.

Be prepared to walk away! If the salesman won't negotiate with you, walk away. Many times this will cause him to become more open to your offer. Remember, there are many more places for you to buy. He is at the mercy of the people who drive onto his lot. He is more desperate for a sale than you are for a car. If you can't find a happy medium, just leave.

What You Should Never Do
There are many things that you don't want to see a dealership do to you as a buyer, but there are some things that you should not do as well, if you don't want to alienate the dealer.

Here is a list of "don'ts" that you should abide by if you are really looking to get a good deal.

- Don't try to pull one over on the dealer by lying about the condition of your trade in vehicle. It is just a lie that you can't get away with, and could cause many cost increases later.

- Don't bother looking for a car if you have had a recent bankruptcy because you will not get approved anyway.

- Don't give the dealership a deposit and then try to take it back for no reason. Make sure you have researched the car before making an offer. You can also lose money on the return as they are sure to have a fee for this.

- Don't bother lying about your debt load and credit rating. You know they have to check it anyway.

- Don't offer any money for a car unless you already know the dealer cost because you are setting yourself up to get ripped off.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/When-you-want-to-buy-a-new-car---part-I/117004

Why Hire A Limousine

2008-03-12T02:20:00.001-07:00

Whether it is a special event, a romantic night for two, a fun filled night on the town with a group of friends, or to impress an out of town client, a limousine is the right choice of transportation..

Very few people would fail to be impressed by having a limousine pick them up and take them to their destination. Hiring a limo says that you think they are special and deserve the best.

Special events call for something extra. A wedding is definitely one of those occasions. Nothing is more elegant than the arrival of the bride in a limousine. When the chauffer, impeccably dressed, opens the door and the bride makes her graceful exit all eyes will be on her. Others will not be able to resist a little sigh when the festivities are over and the bride and groom are whisked off in a limo.

Planning something special for someone? Hiring a limo for a romantic evening for two will definitely begin the night right. Arrive at the opera, theatre, or ballet with class when you go in a limousine. Afterwards a romantic dinner will end the evening in style.

If a group of friends want to spend an evening barhopping or clubbing a limousine is the safest way to go. With a well-stocked bar and a professional driver everyone can be sure that a good time is to be had by all. No one will have to exclude themselves from the fun because they are the designated driver. Afterwards no one has to call a cab and return the following day to retrieve their car. Everyone will be delivered safely home.

Many parents are hiring limousines to escort their child to and from prom. Safety is an important issue for parents. No matter how cautious the driver usually is, young, inexperienced drivers often become careless in a party atmosphere with a group of their friends. The young people and their parents can relax knowing that safety is of the utmost importance to the driver.

An out of town visitor will appreciate having a limousine meet them at the airport. A client who has flown into town may not know their way around. Having a driver that is knowledgeable about the area to take them where they need to go allows them to make phone calls and to make last minute reviews of presentations and go over paperwork. This consideration may be the deciding factor when it comes time to seal the deal.

Why rent a limousine? For elegance, to impress, or for safety reasons, the rental of a limo is an investment in memories.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Why-Hire-A-Limousine/101096

Choose The Right Limousine For Your Needs

2008-03-12T02:17:00.001-07:00
In a market of ever-expanding services, chances are very good that you will find a limousine that will be perfect for any need or special request that you may have.

Perhaps the most important thing that you will need to consider is the number of people that will be riding in the limo. From one person going to work, a meeting or to the airport to a large number of people who are going on a tour or to an event there is a limo to suit your needs.

Once you have decided on the number of people that will using the limousine you can now decide which of the many styles will suit you needs. For parties of up to ten the classic sedan is always a good choice. Mercedes, Lincoln, and Cadillac, just to mention a few, are the traditional luxury sedans.

What something a bit more edgy? Why not try one of the new Hummers? It can seat up to eighteen. For the person who loves sports cars try a stretch Corvette. If an import car is more suited to your taste, try the new Mini Cooper XXL. Even the economical Volkswagen Beetle has been stretched and appeals to those who are young at heart. For the hunting enthusiast there is a pick up truck version of the limousine.

For groups of between fifteen and twenty there are vans that can be used for day tours and for events. If you have a group of up to twenty-eight you may want to use the limousine bus. Both of these types of vehicles offer the luxury of the sedan. With large, flat screen television, DVD and CD, wet bar, and all the amenities guests will have as much fun on the ride as they will when they reach their destination.

For persons with special needs or for special requests speak to the company representative. Any reasonable need or request will be taken into consideration and every attempt will be made to accommodate you.

While there is never a time when a limousine is not right, take into consideration the event and match your choice to the occasion. When going for a professional or a smooth, elegant look you may want to hire a sedan. For a truly fabulous look go all out and hire a Rolls Royce. If it's all fun and youthful choose any of the new styles.

Whatever the occasion there is a limousine for you.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Choose-The-Right-Limousine-For-Your-Needs/101093

Hire A Limousine, You Will Not Regret It

2008-03-12T02:15:00.000-07:00
Why not hire a limousine? Any occasion is a great reason to hire a limousine and you will not regret it.

If there is an event coming up you will want to make the occasion even more exciting by hiring a limousine. A wedding is one of those times when you have enough to do without having to worry about transportation.

Rest assured that your limo will pick you and the rest of your bridal party up at the correct time and will get you to the venue with time to spare. You will not have to worry about making sure to fill your tank with gas, check the tires and oil, or any of the other details that come with car ownership.

Once the wedding is over and it's time to go to the airport there is even more for you to worry about. You must drive around the parking garage to find a parking space and hope that your vehicle is safe while you are gone. Then there is the matter of unloading all of your luggage and getting it into the terminal.

All of this can be avoided when you hire a limousine. The chauffer does all the driving so you can finally sit back and catch your breath after the day's hectic activities. Upon arrival at the airport you do not have to walk from the parking garage hauling a ton of luggage.

Instead, you will park at the entrance of the main terminal and the chauffer will handle your luggage. This is your day and you should relax and let someone take over the planning. After all, you have been doing it all for months.

Reduce the stress factor of planning an out of town trip by making reservations with a limousine service in the city where you plan to stay. You should plan your itinerary in advance so that he limousine will be available to take you to and from meetings or on sightseeing tours. You can relax and enjoy the sights while someone else does the driving.

It can be something as simple as two friends going to dinner. Although there is not really anything very special about that, a limousine would kick it up a notch. Treat yourself special and hire a limo to the day spa for you and your friends.

No matter what the occasion, you will not regret your decision to hire a limousine. Relax and leave the driving to a safety conscious, professional driver.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Hire-A-Limousine--You-Will-Not-Regret-It/101088

The Awe Factor Of A Limousine

2008-03-12T02:14:00.001-07:00
Admit it. You, just like everyone else, have seen a limousine and watched transfixed as it passed. And just like everyone else, you wondered who was behind the darkly tinted windows.

What rich, famous, glamorous person will step out? It could be the star of movies, television, music, or an oil tycoon. But you know whoever it is you are impressed, even if you do not recognize the passenger.

That's the appeal of a limousine - it never fails to grab the imagination.

The presidential motorcade, with flags blowing on the breeze, inspires awe. The long line of sleek automobiles with the secret service men trotting along side definitely creates a sense of suspense, mystery and intrigue. The same goes for foreign heads of state and other dignitaries who speed through the streets with official seals, flags and other symbols that indicate their status. There is something about this that commands respect, attention, and admiration.

Nothing adds to the ambiance of a special occasion like a limousine. Any wedding is made a little more special when the bride arrives in a limousine. Young people today make use of a limousine to go to and from prom and graduation parties.

Limousines are hired to make a favorable impression by businesses and by the general population when someone wants a special means of transportation to an event. The wealthy use a limousine to carry themselves and their families along with their bodyguards and other personal attendants.
Funeral homes often provide a limousine for the immediate family of the departed.

When I see a limo there are several thoughts that come to mind. I automatically think of the glamour of Hollywood. The handsome man with a beautiful lady on his arm, both of them dressed in splendid evening wear, furs and exquisite jewelry. The stars of movies and music, their entourage, handlers, and representatives choose the limousine as the preferred means of transportation.

I also think of the wealthy oil baron, dark and mysterious, from a far-away land, speaking a language I can not understand and I think of the tale of Aladdin. I also think of old gangster movies with the bullet proof windows and doors protecting those inside.

We all hold a fantasy of who rides in a limousine. No matter who is riding in the limousine, we all are in awe of the vehicle and the persons inside become almost coincidental. It is the vehicle that got and held our attention.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/The-Awe-Factor-Of-A-Limousine/101087

Zero-percent Car Financing - Fact or Fiction?

2008-03-10T13:48:00.001-07:00
What does zero percent financing really cost? Car dealers have been very successful with their zero percent financing campaigns - so successful that the concept has been repeated in other industries such as electronics, furniture sales and credit card companies.

According to CNW Research, only one-third of buyers who apply for zero percent auto financing actually qualify and only 10% of those deals actually close according to the National Automobile Dealers Association. CNW Research goes on to state that many zero percent qualifiers overpay for their cars, since they assume they're getting the best deal available and they fail to negotiate price. Automotive manufacturers use their own financing companies to underwrite these zero percent loans, each of which have their own credit qualifications. Generally speaking an applicant must have close to perfect credit to qualify for zero percent financing.

If you have been one of the fortunate ones that didn't get lured in with the 0% financing offers only to get switched to a higher rate because of "blemishes" on your credit and the dealer is now offering you that "free" money, here are some drawbacks you should be aware of before signing that deal.

Shorter Loan Terms. Some dealers offer 60 month terms, but 36 months is average. This means your monthly payments will be much higher.

Limited Inventory. The zero percent offers are generally reserved for models that are suffering lower sales and is almost never offered on pre-owned inventory.

Cash Back. Have you every noticed the "or" clause in those zero percent advertising ads "0% or $10,000 cash back?" That $10,000 you lose by opting for the zero percent financing is the actual cost of borrowing. This often equates to an interest rate much higher than a traditional car loan.
Adding up the Numbers A recent search of the website of one of the Big 3 automakers shows an offer of zero-percent financing on a 2005 mid size sedan. This is how the numbers work out.

Annual Percentage Rate
0%
6.95
$29,999
$29,999
Less Rebate
$0
$5000
Amount to Finance
$29,999
$24,988
Monthly Payment
$625
$596
Total Cost
$29,999
$28,608
Savings
$0
$1,391 Based on 48 months. Does not include taxes, administration or other fees dealer may charge.

This comparison doesn't take into account the fact that you are forced to purchase a new vehicle. Let's take a look at the same vehicle, same model year with approximately 10,000 km on it that was found by doing a quick search on the Internet.

Annual Percentage Rate
0%
6.95% pre owned
Cost of Car
$29,999
$19,999
Less Rebate
$0
N/A
Amount to Finance
$29,999
$19,999
Monthly Payment
$625
$478
Total Cost
$29,999
$22,944
Savings
$0
$7,055
By financing at a low rate and choosing a slightly used vehicle over new, a consumer would save over $7000 in this instance.

Online Credit Applications One of the most streamlined ways to secure financing for a new vehicle is to use one of the many online Canadian car loan services. These companies allow car buyers to fill out car loan applications free of charge.

This method is recommended for car buyers with all types of credit ratings. It can certainly help people with poor credit ratings secure the loans that they need, but buyers with good credit can benefit from them as well. Oftentimes, more than one dealership or lending partner will vie for your business, which enables you to choose the financing that is best suited to your budget.

Having a service arrange your financing also affords you the opportunity to spend your time focusing on other aspects of the car buying process. This time could be wisely spent researching what cars you can afford, and determining what your needs are. Armed with that information, and a loan secured at a dealership or from a lending partner, you're ready to begin shopping for a new car as a prepared and knowledgeable consumer.

Sean Patrick is an automotive finance specialist with over 5 years experience in the Auto Finance world. Currently he is working with the company Car Loan Today. You may view his web site and tips here: Canadian Bad Credit Car Loans

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Zero-percent-Car-Financing---Fact-or-Fiction-/101160

Zero-percent Car Financing - Fact or Fiction?

2008-03-10T13:41:00.001-07:00
What does zero percent financing really cost? Car dealers have been very successful with their zero percent financing campaigns - so successful that the concept has been repeated in other industries such as electronics, furniture sales and credit card companies.

According to CNW Research, only one-third of buyers who apply for zero percent auto financing actually qualify and only 10% of those deals actually close according to the National Automobile Dealers Association. CNW Research goes on to state that many zero percent qualifiers overpay for their cars, since they assume they're getting the best deal available and they fail to negotiate price. Automotive manufacturers use their own financing companies to underwrite these zero percent loans, each of which have their own credit qualifications. Generally speaking an applicant must have close to perfect credit to qualify for zero percent financing.

If you have been one of the fortunate ones that didn't get lured in with the 0% financing offers only to get switched to a higher rate because of "blemishes" on your credit and the dealer is now offering you that "free" money, here are some drawbacks you should be aware of before signing that deal.

Shorter Loan Terms. Some dealers offer 60 month terms, but 36 months is average. This means your monthly payments will be much higher.

Limited Inventory. The zero percent offers are generally reserved for models that are suffering lower sales and is almost never offered on pre-owned inventory.

Cash Back. Have you every noticed the "or" clause in those zero percent advertising ads "0% or $10,000 cash back?" That $10,000 you lose by opting for the zero percent financing is the actual cost of borrowing. This often equates to an interest rate much higher than a traditional car loan.
Adding up the Numbers A recent search of the website of one of the Big 3 automakers shows an offer of zero-percent financing on a 2005 mid size sedan. This is how the numbers work out.

Annual Percentage Rate
0%
6.95
$29,999
$29,999
Less Rebate
$0
$5000
Amount to Finance
$29,999
$24,988
Monthly Payment
$625
$596
Total Cost
$29,999
$28,608
Savings
$0
$1,391 Based on 48 months. Does not include taxes, administration or other fees dealer may charge.

This comparison doesn't take into account the fact that you are forced to purchase a new vehicle. Let's take a look at the same vehicle, same model year with approximately 10,000 km on it that was found by doing a quick search on the Internet.

Annual Percentage Rate
0%
6.95% pre owned
Cost of Car
$29,999
$19,999
Less Rebate
$0
N/A
Amount to Finance
$29,999
$19,999
Monthly Payment
$625
$478
Total Cost
$29,999
$22,944
Savings
$0
$7,055
By financing at a low rate and choosing a slightly used vehicle over new, a consumer would save over $7000 in this instance.

Online Credit Applications One of the most streamlined ways to secure financing for a new vehicle is to use one of the many online Canadian car loan services. These companies allow car buyers to fill out car loan applications free of charge.

This method is recommended for car buyers with all types of credit ratings. It can certainly help people with poor credit ratings secure the loans that they need, but buyers with good credit can benefit from them as well. Oftentimes, more than one dealership or lending partner will vie for your business, which enables you to choose the financing that is best suited to your budget.

Having a service arrange your financing also affords you the opportunity to spend your time focusing on other aspects of the car buying process. This time could be wisely spent researching what cars you can afford, and determining what your needs are. Armed with that information, and a loan secured at a dealership or from a lending partner, you're ready to begin shopping for a new car as a prepared and knowledgeable consumer.

Sean Patrick is an automotive finance specialist with over 5 years experience in the Auto Finance world. Currently he is working with the company Car Loan Today. You may view his web site and tips here: Canadian Bad Credit Car Loans

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Zero-percent-Car-Financing---Fact-or-Fiction-/101158

BMW To Source Auto Parts From India

2008-03-10T11:49:00.001-07:00
Like several other global auto majors, German luxury automaker BMW will source auto components from India. The company will set up its international purchasing office in New Delhi to procure its worldwide ancillaries requirement.

"We will be setting up an international purchasing office which will be headed by an expatriate to take care of sourcing components for BMW's global operations," BMW India President, Peter Kronschnabl, said last Tuesday. Kronschnabl added the proposed international purchasing office will become operational by August this year and will be independent of the company's purchase unit at Chennai that caters to its India operations.

Kronschnabl added, "Once the sourcing team comes to India, they will study what kind of components to be sourced from here." BMW India's purchase unit and the international purchasing office are designed to work individually, in tandem, or in group to create the most feasible approach depending on products. He declined to take a call on the quantum of components that BMW was looking to source from India saying that it was too early to comment. He did not reveal outsourcing targets, but did say that some IT components are being sourced from India.

Kronschnabl added a study is on to find out the feasibility of launching the Mini. Despite it being a "small" car, the Mini would not come cheap - at home in Germany, it costs around Rs 10 lakh, so imports into India as CBU would inflate its price to Rs 18-20 lakh range. The same is the case with the 7-series cars, which are also in the super premium bracket.

The locally assembled 3-series, conversely, is priced between Rs 26.7-32 lakh, whereas for the 5-series would cost Rs 37-42 lakh. The 3-series will still be equipped with cutting-edge features like the improved BMW fuel filter, engines, and radiator plus its enigmatic aura.

The German automaker had revised its sales target for 2007 in anticipation of the positive response to its recently launched 3 Series sedan from the Chennai plant. The sales figure had been revised from about 1,000 cars initially to 1,200 units in India in the calendar year as the company planned to roll out its `5 Series' models from the Chennai plant by June, Kronschnabl said.

BMW has marked 2007 as the 'Year of India' across global operations, and not without reason. The European major has set up an assembly plant at Chennai from where it produces the 3-series and 5-series sedans, committing 20 million investment in the process. But more ventures are on the way.

"BMW is focused on India and we think this market has very good potential. We are evaluating India for our Mini and 7-series cars at the moment. With the premium car segment expected to grow at a healthy rate, we are looking at expanding BMW's presence here," Kronschnabl noted. BMW is now thinking of ramping up component sourcing from India as it evaluates the market feasibility for its famous Mini and 7-series cars.

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop. You can visit BMW fuel filter for more information.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/BMW-To-Source-Auto-Parts-From-India/58807

Limos And You For That Special Day

2008-03-10T11:42:00.001-07:00
When you think of the most special days of your life, think of the type of transportation you were using. Was it a limousine?

There is something about a limo gliding smoothly along on an open highway or maneuvering through busy city streets that attracts attention. No matter who you are you have to admit that you , at some point in your life, have wondered who was behind the darkly tinted windows. Was it a movie star, a wealthy oil tycoon, or perhaps even a powerful political figure? Most of us never realize that it may be an average person such as ourselves who is riding in the car. Today limos are used by everyone for every occasion.

Corporations send busy business executives to and from meetings around town. Without having to worry about driving or the traffic there is time to make last minute changes to presentations and to go over notes. During the holiday season these companies have a limousine to take their employees home safely after a night of festivities.

It is impressive to have a limo meet an out of town client at the airport. Having the car available for the client's use is another amenity that is greatly appreciated. This could mean the difference between making the deal or not. Often the limousines are rented and under contract to the company.

Limousines are used to escort wedding entourages to the many different functions they attend and again on the day of the wedding. Every bride has considered the possibility of having a limo take her to the venue of the wedding and reception. She will usually have the limo take her and her new groom to the airport or to get their car when they leave for their honeymoon.

Prom night is one of the most important social events that young people await with great anticipation. It is made extra special when a couple or a group of their friends arrive in a limousine. With so many horror stories about auto accidents involving young people on this night, parents can relax knowing that their child is safe in the hands of a trained, professional driver.

Most funeral homes also offer a limousine for use by family to follow the funeral procession to the final resting place of their loved one.

From the most joyous occasions, such as a wedding, to the saddest of occasions, such as a funeral, limousines always add a certain ambience.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Limos-And-You-For-That-Special-Day/101690

GPS Is The Perfect Automobile Accessory

2008-03-10T11:31:00.000-07:00
Honey, are we lost? Just maybe, with the right GPS system, you will never have to ask for directions again or hear the dreaded question. Your male ego might just stay intact and save your marriage at the same time.

Does this scenario seem familiar to you? Have you entered the twilight zone? It is time to drive to a new destination and all too many times you find out your map is outdated, the roads are torn up by construction, or you find your self seeing some new parts of the country that is no way related to where you are suppose to be going. Again, I ask, does this scenario seem familiar to you when you have had to drive to a new destination? Take heart, new knowledge is here to help us destination challenge individuals. Having the right Garmin GPS Navigation System, getting from point A to point B (and beyond) no longer has to be an exercise in frustration. No more "going where no one has gone before".

What does GPS stands for? Global Positioning System is a worldwide radio-navigation system of 24 satellites and their earth stations on earth. Airplanes, astronauts, hikers are using this great GPS devices. The satellites are used as orientation points for locations on earth. By measuring the distance from three satellites, GPS devices can triangulate a location anywhere on earth. That is pretty cool if you think about it.

Where did GPS come from? GPS is funded by and controlled by the U. S. Department of Defense (DOD). Can you believe that? While there are many thousands of civil users of GPS world-wide, the system was intended for and is operated by the U. S. military. GPS provides specifically coded satellite signals that can be processed in a GPS receiver, enabling the receiver to compute position, velocity and time. Four GPS satellite signals are used to compute positions in three dimensions and the time offset in the receiver clock. This is really a very neat product that provides an exceptional reliable service.

GPS is speedily becoming an integral component of the up-and-coming Global Information Infrastructure, with applications ranging from mapping and surveying to international air traffic management and global change study. The growing demand from military, civil, commercial, and scientific users has generated a U.S. commercial GPS equipment and service industry that leads the world. Augmentations to enhance basic GPS services could further enlarge these civil and commercial markets.

GPS is managed by the National Space-Based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Executive Committee, supported by the PNT Executive Secretariat. The PNT manages GPS and U.S. Government augmentations to GPS, reliable with national policy, to sustain and augment U.S. economic competitiveness and productivity while shielding national security and foreign policy interests.

The essential GPS is defined as the assemblage of satellites, the navigation payloads which generate the GPS signals, ground stations, data links, and associated command and control facilities which are operated and maintained by the Department of Defense; the Standard Positioning Service (SPS) as the civil and commercial service provided by the basic GPS; and augmentations as those systems founded on the GPS that provide real-time accuracy better than the SPS. GPS permits land, sea, and airborne users to determine their three dimensional point, speed, and point in time, 24 hours a day in all weather, everywhere in the world.

Mom and Dads are putting in GPS vehicle tracking systems in their children cars so they can make sure they are staying away from places they shouldn't be visiting. Trucking companies are installing GPS fleet tracking systems to resolve where there trucks are at all times. Naturally some privacy issues can occur with this capability to keep an eye on movement but the payback definitely over shadow the concerns. Hiking out in the wilderness is much easier and now safer with the GPS handheld units.

Where can you find GPS systems? A good place to start is the internet. Not only is the internet a good source to start where but also you can learn more about GPS and how it works. All the major retail stores carry the major brands such as Magellan, Garmin GPS Navigational System, TomTom, DeLorme, and Lowrance. There are handheld GPS units, dash mounted automotive GPS units, fish finders GPS, and even GPS for PDA's and cell phones.

The United States Government has acknowledged that GPS plays a key role around the world as part of the global information infrastructure and takes sincerely their accountability to provide the best possible service to civil and commercial users worldwide. This is as true in times of conflict as it is in times of peace.

The U.S. Government also upholds the capability to prevent hostile use of GPS and its augmentations while preserving a military advantage in a theater of operations without disrupting or degrading civilian uses outside the theater of operations. The believe they can ensure that GPS continues to be available as an invaluable global utility at all times, while at the same time, protecting U.S. and coalition security requirements. Who said the U.S. Government didn't care?

Jerry Johnson owns the Garmin GPS Navigation System Store as well as several other successful webstores. He has a passion for sharing information that can make life easier for all of us. Vist the garmingpsnavigationsystem.com for great buys on Garmin GPS Navigation System.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/GPS-Is-The-Perfect-Automobile-Accessory/101622

How To Avoid Being Stuck With A Flood Damaged Sports Cars

2008-03-10T11:21:00.001-07:00
Since seeing what has happened in the past along the Gulf Coast you may be thinking how can I protect my car from water damage?

A sports car that has either been flooded or has had water damage will decrease it value by a great deal it will also shorten the interiors lifespan by a huge favor.

Even though you may have repaired or got new interior you may not have got all the saltwater and salt off the steel or metal underneath all the upholstery. That will in turn cause rust and put holes under the upholstery of the car which will make it decrease in value by significant measures.

The more important side of flooding is what can happen to the motor if it too is submerged by water. If water has gotten to your motor of your high dollar sports car it is only a matter of time before it seizes up and stops working since the salt in the water will rust the insides of the motor such as the valves, cylinders, head, block, cams it will ruin everything. It can also happen very fast too if you are not careful.

If your car or just sports cars in general has electrical engineering done to it then you may want to avoid flooding or learn how to fix it if that does happen because if that gets wet then you will have short outs, your cars ECU may shut down the car if it gets too wet or flooded there is just a number of problems that can occur due to flooding.

So if you are buying or are going to buy a sports car you will need to know what to look for in signs of flooding.

The first thing you should do is have it Carfax certified so that you will know exactly what is wrong with it and such.

Next beware of a lot of new car smell often the person trying to sell the car will have put a lot of odor eaters to cover the smell of the mold or mildew that is why you must check everything before you buy the car.

You should also look for water damage, take the car to your mechanic and just ask him to look at the motor and see if its has and flooding or water damage if it has then you should not buy it or try to sell it ASAP but if not then it should be ok.

The devastation that water and flooding can do to your car is the worst. It is worse then totaling it I think because you are the only cause you could have prevented it if you would have known what to do or just got smart about it. You will need to keep your sports car in the garage or at least out of harms way. It is a good idea to keep it covered or in the garage.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/How-To-Avoid-Being-Stuck-With-A-Flood-Damaged-Sports-Cars/101319

Leasing versus Buying a Vehicle

2008-03-10T11:14:00.001-07:00
When preparing to purchase a vehicle, the most common dilemma faced is whether to lease the vehicle or buy the vehicle. Both options present attractive advantages, along with some disadvantages. An example of the lease verse buy dilemma can be applied to a vehicle of any value. If you are planning to purchase a vehicle that is worth $10,000 or a vehicle that is worth $60,000, there are two main ways to pay for this vehicle.

Whether you plan to lease or buy, you will most likely be making a monthly payment. If you choose to lease the vehicle, you will be paying a lower monthly fee but you do not own the vehicle. If you choose to buy the vehicle, your monthly fee will be higher, but it will be yours once you complete the payments. When considering both options, it is extremely important to understand the similarities and differences between leasing a vehicle and buying a vehicle.

Leasing a Vehicle
When you decide to lease a vehicle, your payments are based on two main charges: a depreciation charge and a finance charge. The depreciation charge is used to compensate the leasing company for the portion of the vehicle's value that is lost during the term of the lease. The finance charge is the amount of interest on the money that the lease company has invested in the car during the term of the lease.

Because you are not paying the total cost of the vehicle, the monthly payment for a vehicle that is leased will be less than that of a vehicle which is bought. However, there are several factors to consider about leasing:

1) You do not own the vehicle; therefore you cannot make any modifications or customizations to it.
2) If you get tired of the vehicle, you still have to keep it until the end of the lease term or face a large penalty.
3) You will have a set amount of miles that you can drive during the term of the lease, and if this is exceeded, you will be required to pay for each mile over the original total.

Buying a Vehicle
When buying a vehicle, most individuals take out a loan to pay for the vehicle, and then make monthly payments on the loan. The loan is also based on two main charges: principal charge and a finance charge. While these charges are similar to that of the lease, they are slightly different. A principal charge is based on the total value of the vehicle, which the finance charge is the interest placed on the loan.

When you buy a vehicle, it is yours to keep as long as you make the monthly loan payments. You are free to drive as much as you want and make any customizations to the vehicle. However, there are a couple of disadvantages:

1) A monthly loan payment is always higher than a lease payment
2) When you get tired of the vehicle, you have to sell it on your own

Before you make the decision to lease or buy a vehicle, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each option. However, in the end, the decision to lease or buy a vehicle comes down to personal preference and what you consider important when purchasing a vehicle.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Leasing-versus-Buying-a-Vehicle/101218

The Benefits Of Buying A Used Car And How To Love It

2008-03-10T10:23:00.001-07:00
The best smell in the whole world has got to be that new car smell. It's easily recognizable, and the mind associates the smell with happiness. Who isn't happy when they get a new car? But, along with that new smell comes a high price tag, and instant depreciation the second you drive off the lot. For some people, it's a must have to get the new car with 0 miles, but there are other options to get that new car smell.

A used car, from a certified used car dealership, carries with it a high percentage chance to possess that new car smell as well. Think of all the other benefits. The price tag will be much more appealing. A used car, just a year or two old, will still have the new car reliability, warranty, and new gadgets. If the previous owner wasn't a chain smoker or guinea pig owner, it'll have that new car smell.

Now, I won't lie to you. The new car smell in a used car may not have the shelf life of a new-new car, but you'll still have those moments of bliss. The new-used car smell is born from the hard work of car detailers, and some clever chemical engineering. The detailers give your new used car a super shakedown, wiping, cleaning, and vacuuming every square inch of your car, and getting all the spaces in between. This process can only be done with tools not available for purchase by the general public. It's a bit of an underground thing among car dealers. When the car manufacturers build their new automobiles, they apply their secret new car smell formula to all the upholstery. This smell is worn off, to a point, from use of the car. The detailer's high-tech cleaning tools have the amazing ability to refresh some of that new car formula in the fabrics. This process brings back the smell, and combined with sustaining chemicals the used car dealers have, the new-used car smell is born. It's wonderful.

Some things to keep in mind while you enjoy the new-used car smell... Enjoy the small imperfections, or big, of your new ride. It's used, which sometimes carries a negative context, but that just means that it is broken in, and now carries personality. That little scratch on the dash? That's when the previous owner's son threw a tantrum and kicked off his shoe that was also full of sand and rocks. The small stain on the back seat is when grandpa said he would be just fine drinking that Pepsi. There are a few scratches on the back left panel, from an off-road adventure through a corn field. That could be why the alignment is a little off as well.

No matter what the special quality is of your used car, learn to love it, not despise it. Your car has lived a life, and the history comes with it. It's the small things that you remember about your car, and it's those details that make the car unique. When the time comes for the car to die, then let it die and remember the good times. Enjoy the ride, perform regular maintenance, and love your new-used car. And of course, soak up that new car smell.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/The-Benefits-Of-Buying-A-Used-Car-And-How-To-Love-It/59671

Water Powered Car

2008-03-08T11:40:00.000-08:00
For more than 100 years, the car as we know it has been using oil derivates to function. Gasoline and diesel both have significant power levels when ignited, they were relatively easy to obtain and for a long time their prices have been low enough to be widely available.

However, they have one large disadvantage: the gases that result after their ignition are very pollutant and contribute to the global warming symptoms. For several years now, scientists have been trying to find alternatives to oil and oil derivates for greener, fuel-efficient cars. You could one day use water to fuel you car for totally un-pollutant and environmental friendly vehicle. Is this just a Sci-Fi movie script?

Think again, as future prophecies may be closer than you think. In response to finding an alternative fuel to gas, engineers have found several viable alternatives, such as solar powered cars, hydrogen powered vehicles, hybrid cars and bio fuel cars. Each of them has their own Pro's and Con's, in the next paragraphs, you will read some information about each of the above alternative fuels.

The technology to create solar powered car has been around for several years, but it is recently that this technology has become mainstream enough to be used in mass production. However, none of the large, important car manufacturers has built a solar powered series car. Solar powered cars have some disadvantages however, as some of the challenges facing solar powered cars are speed and horsepower. These vehicles are not very fast and cannot run for a lot of time on solar power alone.

Steam powered engines have started the industrial revolution and they work by using steam pressure that has to be built up in order to run. Steam powered cars would nowadays be heavy and dangerous, as steam under such a high amount of pressure is very dangerous. The latest trend in car manufacturing is creating hybrid cars.

More and more car manufacturers sell or plan to sell hybrid cars in the near future and in some countries the word hybrid has become similar to environmental friendliness. So what is a hybrid vehicle?

Well, a hybrid car is a combination of a normal internal combustion engine, with power supplied by gasoline or diesel, and a battery powered electric motor that has to be charged. When running solely in batteries, these cars can run for several dozen miles without burning any oil at all.

Of course, this can be achieved only if the car moves at slow speeds, as is the speed increases, the car will start its internal combustion engine to deliver the necessary levels of power. While it has some visible benefits, this technology is new and relatively expensive.

More and more governments in the world focus on developing the Bio-fuel technology and encourage car manufacturers and users to buy cars powered by the use of bio-fuel. Bio-fuel is usually corn or soybeans based, plants that can be grown almost anywhere, making it a renewable energy source, but they have some disadvantages: these crops take up the farmland once used to grow crops for food consumption, so there will be a in-balance created.

Hydrogen Powered Cars have been seen by many as tomorrow's car technology, as they are extremely environmentally friendly, since hydrogen is a renewable resource, but hydrogen is extremely volatile (see the Hindenburg disaster) and there has not, until recently, been a way to use it safely in mass quantities.

However, back in 1990, scientists re-discovered water, so to say. Water is made out of hydrogen and oxygen and the hydrogen in the water can be extracted to fuel the car. The focus of all car manufacturing companies is to develop cheap and efficient methods of using water as car fuel, so expect your future car to run with plain water in the next 5 or 10 years.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Water-Powered-Car/116931

Five things to look for when you're hiring a car mover

2008-03-08T11:18:00.000-08:00
You need to be sure your choice of car mover will take some real responsibility for your vehicle.

Here's a list of five pointers to finding a reliable car mover who will not just look at your wallet. A mover who will accept his contract responsibly and look after you.

First, learn if the person you are talking with is a car mover who runs his own business, who will be interested in your car, or merely a commission agent

Then, see if he has a network of offices in your new city. Companies with people in several areas of your new location will give you prompt, local service when you pick up your car. Obviously this is better than having to rely on a small office on the other side of town. Especially if anything happens during your move.

Further, is the mover a member of a national association? Established movers will almost certainly belong to the American Moving and Storage Association, or a similar body. That means he will have a code of conduct to comply with. If there is damage or an accident, you can probably call the association for help. If he does not belong, however, you may very well question how professional he will be when handling your car.

A system of building a quote gives you, the customer, confidence in the mover. You can tell a mover has a system when he is asking for many details about the car, taking notes, thoroughly inspecting the vehicle and giving you a quote that is specific to your car. Check if your mover does this, or just quotes off the top of his head. Does the mover give a hasty quote, or does he use a quote-building system that is comprehensive and yet specific about your car?

Finally: is he using best practice talking with you? Is he clear, does he answer all the questions, does he accept your suggestions?

I would say, don't select your car mover just on price. Least costly is not always best. Consider instead a mover who will take responsibility for your car.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Five-things-to-look-for-when-you-re-hiring-a-car-mover/101778

Extended Car Warranties Choose Wisely

2008-03-08T01:40:00.000-08:00
If you're in the process of buying a car then you should prepare yourself for the extended warranty. Every car sales person will try to sell you some form of extended warranty when you are buying a car, whether it is new or used.

Some of these auto warranties are scams and should be avoided at all costs, however some of them can be a useful form of protection.

If you are unsure how much one of these extended guarantees would cost then you should defiantly read this article.

An extended auto warranty gives a greater level of protection than just the standard dealer guarantee. All extended warranties are different; however most allow you the flexibility of being able to have your car repaired at any licensed service centre, rather than just the dealer that you brought the car off.

The extended warranties offer the standard repairs of mechanical breakdowns, but it also often includes a 24 hours a day roadside assistance, car rental if the car is out of action, towing fees, many other services including lock out, replacement of fluids and jump stars.

Few car buyers actually know anything about auto warranties, many people assume that an auto warranty will pay for anything that could possibly go wrong. Unfortunately this is not true.

There are exclusions to everything, and extended car guarantees are no exception. You will likely find a list of many items that are excluded from the repair by warranty, and it can cause you to wonder what there is exactly covered. It may seem like nothing is covered, and the only things that you get are the roadside assistance perks, and car rental facilities.

There are many websites on the internet that can give you advice about how to buy an auto warranty online. You should carefully investigate these. Many people sell extended guarantees, so you don't have to have the one that is offered by your dealer. Don't give into the hard sell, make sure you shop around before choosing which extended warranty you use.

An extended warranty is only as good as the company that issues it. I could promise you a brand new car should your car ever break down, however should that ever happen I wouldn't be able to afford to pay out.

Ok so maybe that's a stupid example as you wouldn't trust me to offer you insurance, it's ok I'm not offended I understand. But it's exactly the same with a company, if the company is unable to afford to pay out it will just fold.

You can get extended warranties from several sources, including warranty brokers, and insurance groups.

As you will no doubt know that the car dealership will almost always offer an extended car warranty, however you should look somewhere else for these warrantees as often the first offer is not the best. If you purchase your warranty from an external company then you should be able to find one that provides the right level of cover for you, and also you should be able to get a great deal.

It's worthwhile checking out a credit union, other insurance dealers and even looking on the internet to find some great deals for extended warranty. Car buyers generally have a margin of around one-third to negotiate on the extended warranty, so it's worth bearing that in mind. Also remember that the younger your car, and the less mileage it has done the cheaper it will be to get an extended warranty. This is because older cars are a greater risk.

Before you hand over your money make sure you thoroughly read the contracts to find out what the manufacturers warranty provides. Many manufacturers guarantee the car for 3 years or 36,000 miles.

If you plan to trade in your car within three years, then you are unlikely to need an extended guarantee. However you should bear in mind the mileage restrictions.

Just make sure you don't get conned, again I could offer you insurance for 100 years, and only 30,000 miles. This doesn't even match the mileage by most manufacturers, when choosing the insurance quote make sure you compare both figures.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Extended-Car-Warranties-Choose-Wisely/57353

Simple Things That You Can Do To Prolong The Life Of Your Sports Car

2008-03-08T01:35:00.001-08:00
Sports cars are cars that are expensive and will be a huge concern to their owners.

There are so many ways that you can take care of your sports car and extend the life of it also. Below are three ways that you can do just that.

Everyone knows that the internals and guts of the car is what pushes it and makes all the power. The motor the transmission and all the inner workings are what make the car run and what is favored over the outside appearance. Even though the aerodynamics of the car of always good it is the inside of the what's under the hood that powers the car and what should be taken more care of then the paint and finish.

Even though the neglect of the outside will make it look bad it is still what is under that hood that makes it run not the paint and finish.

If you want your car to look and run good then you need to take care of it keep it washed and waxed and have new tires and new oil changed every 3000 miles even though the tires will last a bit longer than that.

The car should always be protected from the weather at all times when it's not being used or driven. You should always keep it covered and away from harm.

If the car has a mechanical problem then it must be fixed of course before you start driving it again or it will just get worse and it will cause more problems as you continue to drive it.

The regular maintenance of a sports car is just as important as if you were driving any other car because it needs to be taken care of either way. It needs to be tuned up, needs to have the oil changed on time, never over ran just needs to be kept to par or it is just going to turn into a pile of garbage.

A lot of people will take the mentality if it isn't broke why do you need to fix it? Well it need to be upgraded especially if the car is old and hasn't had new parts since it was made it will most likely need a few new parts to keep it running good.

Sports cars need to be treated well and not over ran, if you are to over run the motor then you can cause catastrophic failure or just mess it up really bad that is why it is important to know how to take care of your sports car and know how to fix it when there is something wrong.

You will just need to keep the car tuned up and keep it running good if you want it to last a long time and be worth the money you spend on it. If you don't keep it well maintained then you just spent the money for no reason because it won't last more then a few years if that.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Simple-Things-That-You-Can-Do-To-Prolong-The-Life-Of-Your-Sports-Car/101745

If you Want Unequaled Performance, Nothing Beats Quality Volkswagen Passat Parts

2008-03-08T01:24:00.000-08:00
The Volkswagen Passat is truly a dream car for every family who wants superior safety and performance at the same time. First introduced in 1973, Passat has been one of Volkswagen's most sought-after car models.

The name Passat originally came from the German word "passatwind" which means trade wind. The Volkswagen Passat is also known as Dasher, Santana, Quantum and Crossover in other parts of the world.

Along with the Volkswagen Golf, the Passat was one of the first Volkswagen cars to have a four-wheel drive and water-cooled engine. The first generation of this car was a small compact car. It was originally offered in 2- and 4-door sedans and similar looking three- and five-door versions. These versions all had a modern fastback style design, styled by the Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. The Passat used the 4 cylinder OHC 1.3 l, 1.5 l, and 1.6 l petrol engines, also with choices betwen a 4-speed manual transmission or a 3-speed automatic.

Later generations of the Passat grew bigger and what we have today are mid-size and large family cars. All in all, the Passat has six generations and the fifth generation deserves some special mention with the awards it has received. Among these awards were 1999 Used Car Buyer Greatest Used Buy Awards - Most Sensible Car Award Overall & Best Family Car, 1999 Auto Express New Car Honours - Best Family Car, 1998 Car of the Year Awards - Best Family Car, 1998 Top Gear Magazine Top Cars - Best Medium Car, 1998 Which? Magazine Best Buy - Large family car market winner.

With a car which received such honors, there is no doubt that it is one of Volkswagen's greatest achievements. And this wouldn't be possible at all without the reliable and quality parts that make-up this award-wining car. The Volkswagen Passat parts are specifically designed to meet the highest standards of a Volkswagen car, undergoing rigorous testings and researches to ensure top quality.

Among these many parts are your tie rods, oxygen sensors, fuel pump, oil filter, alternator, radiator and other equally-important car parts. Each of these Volkswagen Passat parts deserve the proper maintenance and care that's necessary to keep them up and running.

The good news is, getting your Volkswagen Passat Parts is as easy as pie as these are already available in your trusted online stores. When parts are broken, immediately contact a professional mechanic and replace them when needed. Only then will you get the satisfying performance you have always wanted from your Passat.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/If-you-Want-Unequaled-Performance--Nothing-Beats-Quality-Volkswagen-Passat-Parts/53833

Two Fuel Consumption Tips

2008-03-07T09:01:00.001-08:00
Every time gas prices are raised our problems seem to rise with them, the more expensive gas means less trips or more money out of pocket. The seemingly ever increasing gasoline prices keep people on their tip-toes, since this not only affects how much you and your family travel but it will also modify your budget and the lifestyle, and when that is required, it is never good news.

Needless too say, with the recent rises gasoline prices, the things seem to get grayer and grayer for more and more people, unfortunately.

Yet, if you find yourself in such a situation what is the best thing to do, or what other choices do you have? In this article, I will discuss a few tips for such situations, but it is no secret that the main point of this is the reduction of your overall fuel consumption. By simply lowering the number of gallons you need every month you will find yourself with the same budget range.

The key points to doing these are:

-Unnecessary trips are simply out

Everybody loves going away for the weekend almost every weekend to chill out their tired brains because of those tiring work hours and annoying schedules. Sundays seem to be the main key to peace, quiet and relaxation.

However, in order to find that you need to take your car out for a ride, with your family or alone and start driving towards the nearest forest or canyon. Well, the bad news comes here, because fuel consumption can be seriously reduced by cutting these Sunday trips, or simply by lowering their frequency.

Yet, that does not mean you have to stay at home, you can go around with your bicycle and this way exercise a bit, or go to your friends or pick the bus to the nearest town and visit a whole new place and return in the evening. This will also change your horizons a bit because you will not always be in your own medium, but you will have to interact with others as well.

You can look around for other ways to go on trips as well; maybe your friends are organizing something next weekend. Another good tip based on this subject is to try to reduce the supermarket visits as much as you can. Try to make all your shopping trips in one day.

- How about going with the bus at work today

This means that if you can, and if it is in your way enough and really do not need the car at work, you can take the bus rather than consume your own fuel just to go to the office and back.

You can save that for the weekend if that is more valuable for you. Of course, things do are not the same for those that do not have their office near a bus station. However, there is always the car pool. Ask some of your colleague's maybe you will find one willing to pick you up in the morning and leave you at home in the afternoon.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Two-Fuel-Consumption-Tips/116634

A Closer Look at Subaru and the New 2008 Impreza WRX STI

2008-03-07T07:37:00.001-08:00
Think. Feel. Drive.

Sound familiar to you? These are the words that make up the slogan campaign of the Japanese auto manufacturer Subaru. Though the company is relatively small in size compared to its other competitors, Subaru generates quite enough of a lucrative profit for it to be recognized as among the leading industry leaders in automotive production.What else is there to expect, after all, from a company that understands the balance created by equal thought and emotion? For those at Subaru, then, constructing a line of products that run from a number of Subaru car parts or auto replacement components to tire pieces must entail high engineering performance that would ensure Subaru parts are not going to give anyone even the littlest bit of trouble, and that the designs should appeal to the tastes as well as whims of present consumers.

Japanese automaker Subaru showcased its commitment in World Rally Championships (WRC) with the presentation of the all-new 2008 Impreza WRX STI at the recent 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show.

Subaru of America, Inc stirred the crowd with this new model featuring a 2.5-liter intercooled turbocharged Boxer engine that is capable of pumping out 305 horsepower (SAE) at 6,000 rpm. Torque output is at 290 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm. These figures represent a 12 hp increase over the previous Impreza WRX STI model. In addition, this engine also comes with Dual Active Valve Control System (Dual AVCS). Despite of the powerful performance, the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI still earns the Bin 5 Tier 2-Federal (EPA) and LEV2-California Tier 2/Bin 5 emissions certification. The new mpreza WRX STI also features the exclusive Driver Control Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This system now integrates the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system, with six manual differential-locking settings.

Other technical featrures of the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI include new suspension with special STI tuning, Brembo Performance Brake System with ventilated 4-wheel Super Sport anti-lock (ABS) disc brakes, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), special chassis reinforcements, and new double-wishbone rear suspension.

The new Impreza WRX STI embodies an aggressive and sporty body styling with its
bulged fenders and rear quarter panels. Vehicle dynamics is represented with the
rear gate-mounted spoiler and aerodynamic ground effects. This marks the vehicle's competitive figure in motor sports racing. Other exterior features include functional hood scoop, functional brake-cooling air intakes, functional engine heat outlets, high-intensity discharge (HID) low beams, and fog light insert covers. A five-spoke 18 x 8.5-inch wheels and Dunlop SP600 245/40R18 tires complete the exterior package. Customers can also choose the 18 x 8.5 in. BBS forged aluminum-alloy wheels.

Moving inside, the all-new 2008 Impreza WRX STI comes with a wide array of interior features and other amenities like automatic climate control system with cabin air filtration, standard AM/FM premium stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and 10 speakers with Radio Broadcast Data System capability, optional navigation system, video jacks for portable gaming devices, and pre-wired for XM or SIRIUS® Satellite Radio. Standard new side-curtain airbags are also included as well as the new Incline Start Assist feature. This two components adds to the other standard features of the Impreza WRX STI. Compared to Acura models in segment equipped with Acura serpentine belt, I think the Subaru Impreza WRX STI is great deal.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/A-Closer-Look-at-Subaru-and-the-New-2008-Impreza-WRX-STI/101932

Kelly Blue Book As A Basis For Prices and Values

2008-03-06T08:59:00.000-08:00
There are numerous assorted standards that are on hand through Kelley Blue Book. New Car Blue Book Values- The New Car Blue Book Value reflects a vehicles actual selling price. This value is supposed to show the starting point for negotiation, similar to a new sticker price. Almost one out of every four people who buy a new or used vehicle in the United States visits the Kelly Blue Book website, making it the number one automotive site in the nation Approximately one out of every four Americans who purchase a new or used vehicle in the United States goes to the Kelly Blue Book website, making it the number one automotive spot in the USA Kelley realized that the list might provide an ongoing trade opening and so the Kelley Blue Book was initiated. All and sundry began to be acquainted with the importance of this handy guide, as well as the banking and insurance industries. After World War II, even the United States government accepted the values as fact and used the book to place a ceiling on car value. The final value is then determined by a proprietary editorial process. If you are an RV owner and looking to sell your RV, you will probably need to know just what it is worth before you know how much you are willing to take for it. The RV blue book value takes a lot of different conditions into consideration. Private party will give the value that someone might consider when selling to another person that is not a professional dealer. It is always possible to get the most out of your RV, match the real value if you find the right buyer, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the RV is in top condition inside and out. However, one of the most popular is the Kelley Blue Book. This guide, provided by the National Automobile Dealers Association offers a wide range of prices that includes suggested listing, retail, and wholesale. Recreational vehicles are a chief acquisition for numerous Americans so making sure you have a dependable way to price these vehicles for sales or insurance is a key thing to most owners. Without the Kelly blue book to direct us out there we would certainly be shooting in the dark a lot of the time and this could well be a very expensive exercise, particularly if our valued RV was irrecoverable in an accident and the insurance cover was too low. Making sure we don't lose vast sums of money is what the blue book helps us keep away from.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Kelly-Blue-Book-As-A-Basis-For-Prices-and-Values/102123

Professional Car Shipping Services Make Interstate Moves Easy

2008-03-06T08:08:00.001-08:00
Moving to another state is a massive undertaking. Everything has to be coordinated because once the move starts you can't just zip back to your old home for something you forgot.

One of the problems is how to transport your family car. Many families today opt to have their cars, trucks, motorcycles, or even boats moved by professional car shipping companies.

Although turning your family vehicles over to strangers can cause anxiety, it's really no different from hiring movers to transport your household belongings. Shipping has many advantages over driving yourself and few drawbacks.

Car shipping benefits the self-mover

If you are driving a rented moving truck you have two options: tow your car behind the truck or have a second driver follow along.

Driving a rented truck is challenging for the self-mover; many people have never driven such a large vehicle. Adding the length and weight of a towed vehicle increases the challenge. The truck becomes much harder to navigate and stop and the risk of an accident increases. If you have more than one family car, towing isn't an option.

Having one person drive the truck while another such as a spouse drives the car is safer but carries its own set of problems. Communication between vehicles can be tricky even with cell phones as you never know when you will hit a dead spot. If you have several family cars you may not have enough drivers.

Having your car transported by an auto transport company means having only the moving truck to worry about. Multiple drivers can keep each other company and can take shifts driving, reducing the chance of highway hypnosis.

Auto transport is also great if you have hired a mover

If you have contracted with a company to move your household belongings, you have already made the decision to leave the hassles to the professionals. Not only does it save you the backbreaking labor of loading and unloading, a skilled mover can get your belongings stowed away in a fraction of the time you can.

Vehicle shipping services offer the same advantages. Let an experienced specialist move your car the right way so you can focus on more important matters.

Even if you plan to drive one car, you might want your other vehicles to be shipped. This is particularly true for vehicles like boats.

What's the downside?

Car shipping carries very few negatives. In fact the only real problem is the cost. Although it is a very economical method of moving your vehicles, it's not free and doing it yourself will be less expensive. Then again you could say the same about rebuilding a transmission, constructing a house, or performing an appendectomy. Sometimes it is worth it to let the experts do it right.

As long as you hire legitimate services, there aren't any other major drawbacks. Use services with many years of experience and full insurance to ensure your experience is a positive one.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Professional-Car-Shipping-Services-Make-Interstate-Moves-Easy/102172

True Cost of Car Ownership

2008-03-05T06:09:00.001-08:00
Have you ever wondered just how much a car really cost you from the time of purchase until the time you trade it in?

Let's examine some facts and figures that just might amaze you to find out just what it's going to cost you over the long haul. Lets face it purchasing a new car is expensive, but the real spending comes into the picture when we start looking at the cost of ownership over the years to come and not just at the monthly payment.

See how to calculate your costs below:

Cost of Financing

Estimate your costs based on the amount your going to use for a down payment and include in the term and interest rate.

Cost of Insurance

Insurance is going to be dependent on your age and driving record. Some insurance agencies also charge more for people with poor credit.

Cost of Depreciation

This is had to estimate since no one can predict resale value but if you visit Kelley Blue Book and look at your make and model over the last 3 years compared to what it cost new you can good a general idea.

Cost of State fees

How much will it be to register your vehicle every year? If your state requires an inspection your also need to figure in those costs

Cost of Fuel

Estimate your Gas costs based on the EPA mileage numbers listed on the vehicles window sticker, you will need to take into account how much City driving compared to Highway driving you do. Figure your fuel cost per gallon at $2.96 for unleaded regular, $3.07 for unleaded mid-grade, $3.17 for premium and $2.90 for diesel. These are the numbers in Orlando during June 2007 you can visit http://gasprices.mapquest.com to see the average prices in your area.

Cost of Maintenance

Assume services are performed at manufacturer's suggested intervals with additional service done when needed. Estimate labor rates at $80 per hour for non-luxury vehicles and $95 per hour for luxury vehicles.

Cost of Repairs

How long is the manufacturers bumper to bumper and are you going to get an extended warranty? Are you going to keep the vehicle past the warranty? What is the vehicles reliability report look like from Consumer Guide?

So now that we have included all the real considerations that are needed, you can now consider and calculate most any new car that you purchase and see just what it will really cost you on average over the next couple years. And we can these figures into consideration when negotiating the price of the new car.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/True-Cost-of-Car-Ownership/59799

Credit Scores and Auto Insurance

2008-03-05T05:41:00.000-08:00
In today's world your credit score is used for almost everything and your credit history is examined when you apply for mortgages, personal loans, bank accounts, credit cards, and sometimes even when you're applying for a new job. As well, your credit score is a factor in whether or not you can obtain auto insurance, and how much you will pay for it.

Insurance companies use credit scoring to determine your insurability because they believe there is a correlation between your consumer credit history and whether or not they are likely to have to pay claims on your behalf. They also feel that people with good credit are less likely to suffer from severe insurance losses.

While most insurance companies also use your age, driving record, type of vehicle and your place of residence to determine your premium, your credit score is also factored in. If you don't have a credit history at all you may not be eligible for some discounts, and your premium may be higher. On the other hand, if you have a poor credit score, you may find that even with allowable discounts your premium is still higher than it would be if you had perfect credit. If your credit is extremely poor, you may be denied standard coverage and have to look into pool insurance, which is state-sponsored minimum insurance for those with bad driving histories, poor credit, and low incomes. You cannot be denied ANY coverage, but you CAN be denied the best coverage.

Can They DO That?

You may wonder if an insurance company can look at your credit information without your permission. As long as you have applied for insurance, the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act allows the use of credit information for "reasonable procedures." Determining credit worthiness for insurance is such a procedure, though your insurer is still required to maintain confidentiality and accuracy. They're also required to notify you that a credit report was requested.

While some insurance companies will look at your actual credit report, many use an "insurance credit score" which is a derived by using statistics to determine your likelihood of having a higher-than-average insurance loss. It's comparable to the kinds of scores mortgage companies use to determine your likelihood of repaying your loan. When developing your credit score, your insurance company will look at the following factors:

Public records, including charge-offs, collections, bankruptcies, foreclosures, and other liens

Payment history, which includes the frequency and number of late payments, as well as the degree of lateness

Number and type of open credit accounts, including credit cards, store charge cards, and loans

Available credit: the ratio of available credit to the balances on your various credit cards.

Length of history: how long you have had reportable credit.

Every company uses different factors, and insurance credit scores are not identical to mortgage credit scores, though similar information is used. Unlike the mortgage industry, however, insurance companies are not required to tell you your score, and your agent may never see the number itself, but will only know what it qualifies you for.

If you have anything on your credit that may be an issue, tell your insurance agent up front, so that they are prepared, and can do their research ahead of time. This is especially important if you are dealing with in independent agent who sells insurance from more than one company. If there is incorrect information on your report, be certain to contact one or all of the three major credit bureaus. It can take up to thirty days for them to investigate and resolve any discrepancies.

Your insurance credit score may determine your level of insurability, but one thing it doesn't measure is your worth as a person.
Even the worst credit can eventually be repaired, and once you have a policy and are known to make premium payments on time, some of the discounts that were originally unavailable to you may become so, after the fact.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Credit-Scores-and-Auto-Insurance/114543

Some Winter Tips That Will Keep Your Car Running Smoothly

2008-03-05T05:30:00.001-08:00
Want to save money on car repairs and costly emergencies? Make it a point to schedule into your calendar a winter booster check for your car. Keep these tips in mind for your winter travel, and you will have a safer winter travel season all around!

A gas tank which is kept filled helps keep moisture from forming. Make it a habit to go ahead and fill up when your tank is half empty.

Change your oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles or so if your driving is mostly stop and go or consists of frequent short trips. Personally, I would change my oil every 2000 miles, regardless. It will save you loads of trouble in the long run. Go ahead. Schedule it into the planner.

Wiper blades are one of those things we usually never think about until we need them, and they are not working! Have you ever tried driving in sleet and snow with impaired visibility, thanks to dud wipers? Talk about nerve wracking! Go ahead and replace old wiper blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber clad winter blades to fight ice build-up.

Stock up on windshield washer solvent. You will be surprised how much you use. And, of course, carry an ice-scraper. I keep one in the car, and one in the house just in case my doors freeze and I can not open them immediately.

Make sure your heater and defroster are in good working condition.

Worn tires do not help any time of year, least of all in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. It is a good idea to check tire pressures once a month. Let the tires cool down before checking the pressure. Do not forget to rotate your tires, too!

Make sure you have a spare and that the jack is in good condition.

Be prepared for emergencies, even if you live in a warmer climate. A winter emergency list should include gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flash light, and a cell phone. Put a few high energy snacks in your glove box. You can buy survival aids in the camping section of your sporting goods store.

It may take you less than an hour to get your car checked for winter and prepare for any emergency. That is time well spent and it can save you a giant headache this winter season! Indeed, it could even save your life and the lives of those you love.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Some-Winter-Tips-That-Will-Keep-Your-Car-Running-Smoothly/102173

The Responsible Car Owner

2008-03-04T09:34:00.000-08:00
Those purchasing a car for the first time may be excited about their purchase but will overlook the most important part of the buying process. Once the papers have been signed and the car is yours, you need to turn out of the dealership and go straight to an auto parts store to complete the process. There are a few tools any vehicle owner is going to have with them. These are jacks, jack stands, a good sturdy socket set, rags, funnel, and a bucket, a pair of jumper cables, a strong pair of pliers, and a screwdriver set.

I know that you are probably saying, "I have a warranty on my car". This is good for the first year but exactly what happens when the car starts to get older and the warranty is gone. What if you are not buying a new car but a used vehicle? What happens if you do not have the money on hand to have things repaired by a professional shop? You might want to start now with the beginning of your purchase to start the process of learning how to care for the do it yourself issues. Knowing now will prevent issues later when the problem comes up.

With the right tools in the car, you will have them ready for any situation. You might even find that others on the road can benefit from your thinking ahead. How many times do you see people who are stuck on the side of the road without a jack or a set of jumper cables? You can ease off the side of the road and offer your assistance. Not only will you feel good about planning ahead, you have been in a position to do something nice for someone else. The feeling you get from being able to help someone else will not be surpassed by many other things.

If you can not afford to buy all these extras at once, make sure you have at least a set of jumper cables and a jack for flat tires. Tires never last as long as the warranty and could need to be changed at any time. Take a little time to search the manual in your car for proper tire changing instructions. Each year, many individuals get hurt because they did not set up the jack properly and the vehicle falls.

Take a firm stand with yourself to begin to learn more about repairs you can easily do on your vehicle. You never know when just the knowledge will come in handy. Your car seems to choose the most inopportune times to break down and being prepared will make it a less scary event for you. Imagine for a second what would happen if you were traveling at night and were stranded on the side of the road. You will feel much better when you get in your vehicle for not only the long trips but the short commutes to a place of work or play.

Every car at some time will need to be fixed. Maintence not only prepares you for the worst of times but can teach you how to keep your car in top form for many years to come. Doing things your self will be a money saving experience for you also. It can get pretty pricy to put your car in the shop especially with labor charges added. What could take you an hour to repair could mean a week of not having your car because it is in the shop.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/The-Responsible-Car-Owner/114570

Lessons in Liability - What if Someone Else Crashes Your Car?

2008-03-03T09:03:00.000-08:00
When you are the person behind the wheel of your own car, figuring out who is liable if there's a car accident is fairly simple. It's either your fault, the other driver's fault, and the police and your insurance companies will work it out if the answer isn't entirely clear. If someone else is driving your car, however, and the accident was their responsibility, are you liable because you own the vehicle, or is it the driver's responsibility to pay for damage?

If you loan your car to a friend, and they cause an accident, however, the water is a little muddier. Generally, your coverage will be in first place, so you will have to pay your deductible. This is because standard auto policies are written to cover "...you, any relative, and anyone else using your car if the use is (or reasonably believed to be) with your permission."

If the damage incurred exceeds your policy limits, your friend's insurance will kick in and cover the difference in most cases.

But what if the person who drives your car has no insurance? And what if your car is crashed while a thief is driving? Here are three scenarios that involve liability when someone else crashes your car:

Crashed while Stolen: If your car is stolen, and the person who stole it causes an accident, it is unlikely that you will be held responsible for any damages to other people, or to property, but even if the thief is insured, you probably will have to pay for damages to your own car via your collision coverage. The average thief, however, isn't likely to have insurance, and even if they do, their insurance won't pay for an accident caused during a criminal act.

Crashed by Uninsured Friend: First of all, you shouldn't be lending your car to anyone who doesn't have insurance. If you do choose to let them drive your car, however, and there is an accident, your coverage will protect you only up to your policy limits. If there is damage beyond that, the injured parties can sue you for property damages or medical expenses.

Crashed by Friend Without Permission: If your friend drives your car without your permission, you won't be liable for the damages, as long as they are insured, and your insurance will most likely be used to pay for damages to your own car (collision coverage) or others' (liability). Be aware, however, that insurance companies are extremely skeptical about such cases, and you'll have to prove that you either didn't know your friend had your car, or that you had refused to lend your car to them.
Otherwise, it will be assumed that you loaned your car to your friend, and your insurance will be in first place.
You can't always prevent your car from being stolen, though anti-theft devices do help, and often come with an insurance discount, but you can keep a friendship from being ruined by a car accident. Don't lend your car to anyone unless it's a dire emergency, and insist upon seeing proof of insurance before you do.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Lessons-in-Liability---What-if-Someone-Else-Crashes-Your-Car-/114863

The Porsche: Germany's Top Luxury Car

2008-03-03T08:12:00.000-08:00
The genius behind the company was a man named Ferdinand Porsche. Born in what is now the Czech Republic in 1875, he demonstrated astonishing mechanical aptitude at a young age. He was the third of five children. His father, a plumber, expected Ferdinand to take over the family business-but Ferdinand had other dreams. At eighteen, after completing an apprenticeship with his father, he took a job in Vienna with the firm Bela Egger & Co.

At the company, Ferdinand demonstrated impressive skill for his age. He built an electric wheel-hub motor, and was soon attracted across the street to rival Jakob Lohner & Co. This company was actively developing electric cars, and Ferdinand felt his skills could be better used there. And they were-three years after joining the company, Porsche had built an entire electric car.

This historic car, the Lohner-Porsche, was innovative in several ways. The two wheel-hub motors on the front wheels had an output of 2.5 horsepower, generated an astonishing 120-rpm, and were completely silent. The battery could travel 50 kilometers between recharges. The car could travel up to 50 kilometers per hour.

But this was only the beginning. Porsche began experimenting with internal-combustion motors, and his next car, the System Mixt, had internal-combustion wheel hub motors. Porsche went on to win several speed records and widespread acclaim-his name was now well-known not just in engineering circles, but also to the general public. In 1905, he won the coveted Poetting Prize as Austria's most outstanding engineer.

In 1906, Austro-Daimler offered to make Porsche its chief designer. Porsche accepted the job, and in 1910 he designed an 85-horsepower car for the Prince Henry Trial, an international competition named in honor of Prince Henry of Prussia. Porsche's designs won the top three places at the trial.

With the start of World War I, Austro-Daimler began to focus on producing war materials such as trucks, airplane engines, and mechanized weapons. Porsche saw his star rise further in these years; in 1916, he became Austro-Daimler's managing director. He was also awarded an honorary doctorate from Vienna Technical University. This honor was very meaningful to him. Ever afterwards, he was known as Professor or Doctor Porsche, and incorporated the honor into his company's name.

Dr. Porsche had competed in rallies and speed competitions since he became interested in building cars. He believed that by building racecars, he could improve the performance of all his vehicles. As a result, he developed an interest in building small, light, high-performance cars.

Unfortunately, he and Austro-Daimler did not see eye to eye. The company's board did not agree with the direction Porsche wanted to take, and eventually Porsche left. He went on to a position at Steyr, but the Great Depression made car-making an unprofitable business. The company collapsed, and Dr. Porsche was unemployed.

So he moved to Stuttgart, a town with a strong connection to the automotive industry and the location of several prominent car companies, and started a consulting business. His team consisted of people he had worked with before, and a few family members-including his son, Ferry.

The company's aim was to help other companies design better cars-not to design them itself. So in the beginning, none of the cars the company designed had the Porsche name. That changed when the government, now under Nazi control, came to Porsche with a project: design a car "for the people"-a Volkswagen.

Porsche as a company has always been closely tied to Volkswagen; many of the components of the early Porsche cars came from the Volkswagen Beetle. Porsche's Volkswagens were popular, affordable cars that survived after the collapse of the Third Reich. Porsche and his son, and later his grandson, went on to design such ground-breaking cars as the 911, the Boxster, the Spyder, the Roadster, the Carrera, and many others.

Porsche survived the Great Depression, the Third Reich, and dramatic corporate restructuring to keep its place at the forefront of the automotive industry. No matter the country, everyone knows that Porsche cars stand for luxury, power, and performance.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/The-Porsche--Germany-s-Top-Luxury-Car/115535

Reviewing last years greatest car tuning events

2008-03-03T07:20:00.000-08:00
There's something about Waterfest that makes you feel rejuvenating. Being in the company of so many enthusiasts and surrounded by a sea of incredible cars, makes it a very special event. You leave this special car fest thinking about new projects, what cars to feature, new tuning, and feeling at peace with this incredible world.

Waterfest is an annual fair that brings together thousands of people from all across North America to Raceway Park, New Jersey. There are awards given out to the top contenders in the following fields: Drag Racing, Smoke Shows, Showcars, and Dynos.

Unitronic Chipped proudly sponsored, last year, the world famous Waterfest 13 VW/AUDI carshow at Raceway Park, New Jersey. They re-flashed over 30 cars during the 2 day period of Waterfest, and it was a great success. And we hope we'll see them again next year! We were all impressed by their tuned "The White Beast". Imagine this monster Audi TT, built by VAG Motorsport, Tuned by Unitronic dynoed over 540 AWHP at 5500 RPM, taking the top dyno trophy at Waterfest 13. "The White Beast" was forced to hold back some of its power due to the fact that it was ripping itself off from the dyno due to the immense power that only a unitronic tuned car can have.

And before the great Waterfest, there was a special event that the tuning fans would not even dare to miss: The Orangeball Rally. Wow! We, the passionate drivers, hope that this year will only be a greater one... if that is possible! Because last year's Orangeball Rally was the greatest one day rally from Montreal to Waterfest 13 EVER! Starting on the 20th of July and traversing 2 different countries, with the support of many Volkswagen/Audi enthusiasts in the greater metropolitan community of Montreal, Volkswagen enthusiasts have banded together to form the finest automobile rally in Canada. From the world famous Orange Julep in Montreal, the riders set off on their trek across more than 400 miles of wilderness to arrive at Raceway Park in New Jersey in time for Waterfest 13, the largest Volkswagen /Audi gathering in North America. Their voyage and stories were filmed and broadcasted on the internet, and (of course!) on Eurosport, for all to see.

Then, it was time for the annual TDI Fest, in Montreal, Quebec. It was an incredible gathering of all Volkswagen enthusiasts who share a passion for their Diesel engines. TDI Fest crossed the Canadian border for only the second time in its history, drawing enthusiasts from as far away as Alaska and California!

The Northeast Chapter of ACNA, with assistance from the Eastern Canada Chapter of ACNA and the BMW Club of Quebec, and NEQ event masters Wendy and Alan Bellavance hosted the NEQ/MTB Fall Foliage Event, on September 29 and 30, 2007. It was a two-day high performance driving school, at the famous Le Circuit Mont Tremblant in Mont Tremblant, Quebec, Canada. Those who attended NEQ Club on their Mont Tremblant driver school safety day were offered discounts for their car tuning from unitronic.

The world famous H2O International car show in Ocean City, Maryland closed the list of the most important tuning events. H2O International is a weekend long BBQ and Carshow with more than 7000 VW AUDI fans. In 2007 the event brought together more than: 7000 visitors, 60 sponsors, and 996 show-cars to make it one of the largest VW AUDI shows in North America.

Welcome to the world of quality and performance. Welcome to Unitronic! As you know, tuning is a very meticulous and precisely calculated art. You need the proper recipe to make the perfect file and knowledge is the main ingredient.In our development center we are constantly pushing the limits, allowing us to offer the most precise software available for all types of applications: www.unitronic.ca/

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Reviewing-last-year-s-greatest-car-tuning-events/115581

Fly with the Bentley

2008-03-02T13:02:00.001-08:00
Have you ever seen the winged "B" badge of the Bentley and felt like flying? If yes, you are not the only one! People all around the world dream of owning a Bentley and why not, its stature is just too big not to be desired! Bentley Motors was established in England in January 1919. The founder was Walter Owen Bentley. Walter Owen was always fascinated by combustible engines and racing motorcycles, like most young boys are, and the Bentley was an outcome of this passion.

Bentley Motors has a history full of turns and twists and quite an interesting one too! Lets skim through its pages.

The manufacturing of the Bentley started with a 3-litre engine car which was very advanced for its times. It had four cylinders, single overhead camshaft, four valves per cylinder and twin-spark ignition via two magnetos. But it did make some noise. It is said, that this noise once irritated a nurse who was attending to a dying patient. To everyone's surprise, a person present there had then said 'A happy sound to die to"! Such was the beginning of the Bentley!

The Bentley was and is primarily known as a racing car. It has won many Le Mans trophies. The Le Mans is a 24-hour car endurance test held in France. It tests a car to it limits and those who can sustain the grill, command tremendous respect and awe in the automobile market. These races also provided a huge advertisement for the Bentley. The first Bentley,the 3-litre car, participated and came a very respectable 4th!

From then on, there was no looking back and Bentley motors went on to make some of the finest cars ever known. Sometimes the manufacturing was so slow that the cars were made just before delivery and at times even the demonstration cars had to be sold. But their popularity never ceased to soar. In reality fewer people bought them due to their high prices but still everyone secretly thought of taking control of one of these. After a few years, it was announced that Bentley Motors would retire from racing as they were falling short of money. As well as this, all the rash race driving was giving the common man a very bad impression about the car. Some people were wary of buying the car, as they saw it as a symbol of rough driving. Somewhat in order to break this image, Bentley Motors manufactured a bewitching limousine passenger car. But by this time, the great depression had taken its toll on Bentley Motors, leaving it in financial doldrums. Hence it was decided to sell the firm. Thus Rolls Royce took over Bentley Motors in a very dramatic manner in 1931. At that time Bentley was the most formidable rival of Rolls Royce and the world saw this as a mega deal for Rolls Royce. Actually it was good news for Bentley (in one way at least), that their baby would at least be in some experienced hands. Thus the Bentley was actually with Bentley Motors only till 1931.

The Volkswagen Group ,a German company, has been the owner of Bentley since 1998. The Bentleys are manufactured at the Crewe factory in England.

The various current and popular models of this car are Arnage, Azure, Continental GT, Continental Flying Spur and Continental GTC.

Luxury, elegance and comfort characterize all the Bentleys. Features like emergency fuel shut-off device, child safety door locks located on rear doors, engine immobilizer, front seatbelt height adjusters, fog lights, anti-theft protection, airbags with occupant sensors, computers keeping track of average speed, average fuel consumption, instantaneous fuel consumption and range for remaining fuel, keyless entry operated via key fob, tire pressure monitor, separate driver/front passenger climate controls, rear window defroster, heated washer system, bluetooth incorporated telephone system, electric foldable mirrors, ashtrays, full maps, remote controlled DVD, several speakers, headlight cleaners, leather seats, tinted glass ,a variety of interior lighting, etc. make the Bentley, a precious buy. The Azure also has a sunroof/moonroof and a removable/convertible top!

The Bentley cars are immediately recognizable by the huge headlights they flaunt. But unlike their easy to spot features, they are very difficult and intricate to make! The Bentley is known as a highly reliable, sturdy and versatile car. Versatile, as it combines uncompromising luxury with enviable performance and reliability.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Fly-with-the-Bentley/60776

Car Theft

2008-03-02T00:48:00.001-08:00
With all the advancement in auto anti-theft technology you would believe that the theft of vehicles would be less than ever before, however, that statement is farther from the truth than you can imagine. A matter of fact, automobile theft is still a booming business. All anti-theft systems can only do so much to aid against car theft.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau recently reported that the vehicle theft rate has risen to nearly 1,260 million vehicles an increase of 14,000 over the previous year. With this report, it shows that car thefts have increased consecutively over the last four years. They also provide suggestions to help every car owner protect their cars from thieves. Anti-theft systems cost quite a bit of money and many car insurance companies do give discounts on your insurance if you have some types of anti-theft devices on your car.

The NICB reported that the total loss for owners and insurance companies due to car theft is more than $8 billion a year, which is a figure that is getting larger each year as vehicles cost more and more. Auto theft costs all drivers with higher insurance rates.

The NICB also reports that where you live also plays a major factor. According to their report, owners living in a port city, an urban area in general, or a town, which is on the border with Mexico or Canada, should take into consideration some extra protection. The NICB lists the top 10 cities, including their surrounding areas, with the highest vehicle thefts from highest to lowest: Modesto, CA.; Phoenix-Mesa, AZ.; Stockton-Lodi, CA.; Las Vegas, NV.; Sacramento, CA.; Fresno, CA.; Oakland, CA.; Miami, FL; San Diego, CA.; and Detroit, MI.

The vehicle you drive even affects its chances of finding itself in the hands of auto thieves. The NICB listed the following vehicles as the most stolen vehicles in 2003 starting with the most stolen, the 2000 Honda Civic, 1989 Toyota Camry, 1991 Honda Accord, 1994 Chevrolet 1500 pickup, 1994 Dodge Caravan, 1997 Ford F-150 pickup, 1986 Toyota Truck, 1995 Acura Integra, 1987 Nissan Sentra and 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass.

A few helpful tips for protecting your vehicles from car thieves include:

Never leave your keys in your car; even if you think you have hidden them well, car thieves know all the hiding places.
Never leave valuables in plain sight - this is too tempting.
Never leave personal information in your car such as ID's - this is just asking to become a victim of identity theft.
Never leave the car title or registration in the car it makes it too easy to sale.
Always park in well-lit areas.
Most car thieves tow cars; always leave a standard vehicle in gear and with an automatic use your emergency brakes.
If you put your car in the garage, lock all windows and doors in the garage.
Do not believe your car is old so no thief would want it; age doesn't stop a car thief.

Even though, nothing can totally protect you against car thieves many could have been avoided with just a few precautions.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Car-Theft/60928

How To Define a Supercar?

2008-03-02T00:05:00.001-08:00
Have you ever wondered, what makes a car a supercar?

Asking what makes a car super is like asking, what makes a woman beautiful - everyone has its own opinion.

A term supercar was coined to describe extremely expensive, extremely beautiful and extremely fast cars. But the proper use of this term is often subjective and disputed, especially among enthusiasts. There is no clear definition of what characteristics a car must have to be a supercar. What constitutes a supercar is often a matter of opinion. Also, the use of the term is heavily dependent on the era - a car that is considered to be a supercar at one time may lose its superiority in the future.

It is also important to know that the term supercar refers to factory-built, usually unmodified, street-legal cars. Heavily modified and potentially street - illegal vehicles do not fall into the supercar category. Supercars are not muscle cars or tuned up sports cars. And there is no such thing as a cut price supercar.

A supercar is a car that combines speed, handling, unique design and represents the pinnacle of the automaker's art. Supercar is the car equivalent of a supermodel or a race horse. There are, off course, some basic criteria for measuring whether a car should be considered a supercar or not. Things to consider: design, acceleration, top speed, handling, power-to-weight ratio, style, rarity, price - all of these has to be super in a supercar.

Want an example? Here is a prime example of a supercar - The Bugatti Veyron.

The Bugatti Veyron is currently (2007) the most expensive (around $1.5 million) and fastest fully street legal car in the world. The Guinness Book of World Records included Bugatti Veyron under the heading - Fastest Production Car. With 1001 horsepower this supercar champion features all the most recent automotive advancements and is able to achieve a top speed of 253 mph (407km/h). This is faster than any production car ever made, it's actually faster than Formula 1 cars. Supercars are not just fast, they are blazingly fast.

Other supercars include: Koenigsegg CCX, Pagani Zonda, McLaren F1, Saleen S7 Twin Turbo, Enzo Ferrari, Lamborghini Murcielago and so on.

On the fun side, if you ever doubt whether a car is a supercar or not, consider this: A car might be a supercar if - you have a wallpaper or a poster of it, it's worth more than your house, you drool when you see one, it can break the speed limit in 1st gear, you will probably never own one, but if you do, you would never give the keys to the valet.

In conclusion, a supercar is a car that changes your idea of what a car is and what a car can do.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/How-To-Define-a-Supercar-/71951

Picking Houston's Best Glass Company

2008-03-01T23:52:00.000-08:00
When you're in need of Houston's best glass company, it usually isn't at a convenient time. You don't have three hours to compare prices, reviews, and additional services they may provide. You have a narrow window of time and you need to get your auto glass repaired in a hurry. So you definitely want someone who is reliable, who can get there in a reasonable length of time, and who offers competitive prices for their auto glass services. After all, auto glass services can range significantly in price around Houston and you do want the best deal for your money while receiving quality work.

Houston's weather events, criminal events, and other unexplainable events have raised the need for quality glass companies to let the public know that they are there. After all, despite the fact that most insurance companies will pay for part if not all of the repair, nobody wants to waste time, money, or anything else on a service that is unfitting. Thus, finding the best glass company in Houston can be a major ordeal when you're the one needing the auto glass repair.

Glass companies are now offering all kinds of services outside of fixing glass. Some glass companies have become so specialized you're not really even sure if they fix broken windshields anymore. Between the tinting and the shading and the commercial repairs and the vast array of cool window stickers they have available for sale, something as simple as a broken windshield may or may not fit onto their schedule.

The best glass companies will automatically fit three major criteria. First, they will offer to come to you as long as the weather permits. There are temperature restrictions that must be met, and unless the car can fit into a climate-controlled garage, sometimes you just won't have the option of having a glass company come to you for your auto glass repair job. This is not their fault, of course, since they are not in control of the weather or the elements and no technology has yet been developed that will permit the company to do such repairs outside the guideline for elements.

Secondly, the best glass company is going to be able to knowledgeably speak to you at length about the nature of your auto glass repairs. There won't be any surprise bills at the end of the day because they decided that your Mazda needed tinted windows or that you had some sort of specialty case going on. No, you will know ahead of time how much the auto glass repair is going to cost, whether you need a whole window replaced, and how long it is going to take.

There is a simple truth about this level of communication. If by chance you have one of those glass injuries that are marginal, as in perhaps it is necessary to replace the whole thing or perhaps it can be done without actual replacement, someone should tell you that. You shouldn't hear one thing (with certainty) only to find out there's a whole different reality going on in the garage.

The final element to finding Houston's best glass company involves basic respect. This includes respect for your old car that is held together by chewing gum and masking tape. Respect for you and those around you. When you are treated with the utmost respect and know whole heartedly that your auto glass repair went off perfectly and without a hitch, then you know that you have found Houston's best glass company.

Auto glass repair is not an aspect of life we give a great deal of consideration to until the moment when things go awry and we need a glass company. Of course, at that moment we want one to treat us as though we are the world's most loyal customers and they should be there less than ten minutes after we hang up the phone because now we have what we consider an emergency.

Auto glass repair done well, done efficiently, and done with respect is the basics of what we expect. When these basics are not delivered, our self-defined emergency seems to be compounded by our need to get the best from our auto glass company. Simple picking the best one in Houston to start off with, just makes our life that much easier, and our self-defined emergency can stop holding up our day.

David Warren is owner of Apple Glass Company, a glass repair and replacement firm that serves the Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas markets. Contact David Warren at 281-440-1292 or visit www.appleglasscompany.com to schedule a service appointment.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Picking-Houston-s-Best-Glass-Company/102286

Chrysler Sebring Sedan

2008-03-01T12:55:00.000-08:00
This car is elegant in every single way possible, but it also has a sophisticated and noble look to it. It suits anyone, if you want the car and can afford to buy it, go ahead. There are no reason why it cannot belong to a man and no reason why it shouldn't belong to a woman. With many other cars they are either designed to suit men or women more, but not this one. Drive in style, drive like you've never driven before and experience the real feeling of great driving with the Chrysler Sebring.

The Chrysler Sebring is available in one of these beautiful colors; Bright Silver Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl, Linen Gold Pearl, Marathon Blue Pearl, Modern Blue Pearl or Silver Steel Metallic Pearl. These are all good colors but it will be up to you to decide which will best suit you.

The smooth appeal the Chrysler Sebring brings to the streets is emphasized by the unique grooved hood of the car. There are six long lines that stretch from the fascia to the windshield of the car, giving it that great irresistible appearance. You won't be able to walk away when you see this car advertised, its beauty will have your feet glued to the ground. The wheels on this baby stand away from each other by 18" of chrome aluminum. These are optional on the Chrysler Sebring, so if you don't fancy them too much, don't take them. You have a choice of a few other kinds of wheels so once you have decided on your color, you can think about which wheels will go with it.

On the entertainment side of the Chrysler Sebring, you will definitely be interested, it includes;

Infotainment System
With this you are able to download files via the USB port and store whatever you like on the 20 gig hard drive. The GPS navigation system is voice activated and features easy to follow direction guidance. The satellite radio will let you know what's happening on the roads with the traffic reports, the audio jack will keep you busy and the DVD playback function will have you in your vehicle for hours on end!

Multifunction Radio
This high quality stereo radio with built in speakers will have you listening to your favorite tunes while on the road and if you can't find any of the oldies that you fancy, simply pop in a CD and you're good to go! You can even plug in your MP3 player and jam the tunes from there! You can also have a satellite radio installed if you wish to do so, but it is not compulsory with the purchase.

Steering Wheel Controls
There are even controls just behind the steering wheel so that you can operate the radio without taking your hands off the wheel. Safety and convenience in one!

DVD Entertainment
This is awesome; now your backseat passengers can watch movies while you drive and listen to your music on a low volume. Two wireless infrared headsets will allow them to hear the audio of the movie played on the cute 7' screen. Luxury in a car doesn't get better than this!

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Chrysler-Sebring-Sedan/82721

Chrysler Sebring Convertible Posted By : Dennis James

2008-02-29T10:19:00.001-08:00

The freedom of breathing open air and having the soft wind blowing in your hair, it just never looked so good! With the smooth and elegant style of the Chrysler Sebring Convertible sparkles like some cars would in a movie, and the best part of it all is that the car hardly ever blends in with the rest of the scenario. If driving one of these, your car will permanently be the centre of attention and boy, will you have a lot of lifts to give! With the keys to a Chrysler Sebring Convertible in your hand, you won't be able to say no! You have to understand, with this car you are going to have to enjoy the fact of people staring with gaping mouths and huge smiles....while your hair blows back in the wind and soothing music pumps into your ears.

There's nothing better than having the option of a retractable hard top while behind the wheel of a Chrysler Sebring Convertible. With the simple click of a button you will be able to adjust the settings on the instrument panel for the hard top. This great feature is even available when you have the top down. You will probably be happy to know that the trunk of this vehicle is larger than many others, allowing you more space for your trips or when you go to the golf course! Even when the top of the roof is down, the trunk is still the same size. The soft top works much like the hard top; it can be controlled by the simple touch of a button. You can use the instrument panel to control this feature or you can use the key fab, which ever works best for you.

You will not find many cars that allow this feature; but with the Chrysler Sebring Convertible you have the option of having the top down and the wind blowing peacefully in your hair, without your hair being all messed up when you get to your destination. What makes this possible is the way the windscreen is designed; it allows the wind to flow over the windscreen and pass over you, and keeps on flowing, without roughly getting your hair into knots. (If you have enough hair to form knots that is!)

Within the interior of the vehicle, the instrument panel allows you to control features from the roof top, right to the cupholder where you can choose whether you want it to warm or cool the cup placed in the holder. Convenience has never been so....convenient!

When it comes to the Chrysler Sebring Convertible and entertainment, well let's just say you won't be bored! This car has a multimedia infotainment system with 20gigs of hard drive space, stereo radio system that is CD and DVD compatible, satellite radio, audio system controls for the steering wheel and booming speakers.

You are sure to enjoy this car!

Source: http://www.reprint-content.com/Article/Chrysler-Sebring-Convertible/164456

Capture the roads with Infiniti in Nassau

2008-02-29T00:52:00.000-08:00
Cars are one thing that has fascinated every human being present on this earth since their existence. And speed, power, style, magnificent and many other words related to cars comes up in mind is Infiniti vehicles. One can find a range of vehicles ranging from coupe, sedan, saloon and sport utility vehicles. However, there are several Infiniti automobile dealerships in Nassau that offer a wide range of new and pre-owned Infiniti models to corporate and other customers. These dealerships provide various models with luxurious interiors.

If you are an automobile lover and looking for a car and moreover confused on the make then think only Infiniti Nassau. Because that's the way to zoom and vroom! Anyways, you must be aware that finding or buying your long dream a car is no child's play cherished and requires lots of time as well patience. In fact, sometimes it becomes so tiresome to choose from thousands of cars available in the market. However, not any more, as Infiniti in Nassau will help you find that lethal weapon in a form of car that you are or have been eyeing for a long time. It is only Infiniti in Nassau through which you will be able to fulfill your dream of having a perfect car with a combination of elegant looks and high-performance. Therefore, relax and think about the Infiniti models that you have to decide from. The models offered by Infiniti Nassau include QX 56, M35, G 37, FX, EX and the newly introduced EX. It is indeed the most lovable the brand of cars trusted by million of people world over. Hence, do not wait and bring home the luxury.

In fact, it is a well-known fact that some people buy a car for pleasure and passion, for some it is a necessity and for some it is a way to live life with style. However, for people driving Infiniti models from Nassau is a mixture of passion, style, magnificence and comfort. The driver and the owner of Infiniti vehicles feel like a king of the road. In fact, Infiniti Nassau's various models demands to be zoomed and flaunted by the owner. Well, its various models feature hard drive navigation system, XM NavTraffic with real-time traffic information, premium audio system with XM, satellite radio. The Infiniti cars also feature skid plates, transfer case, oil pan and fuel tank.

The cars have rearview monitor, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, heated first and second row-seats, 60/40 split power folding third bench row and power rear liftgate. In fact, if you cannot buy an Infiniti car, then you can still make it yours, as Infiniti Nassau offers various models on long- and short-term lease to individuals and corporate clients. In fact, Infiniti can help you in buying your dream car through its easy finance schemes. Moreover, you are sure to find out that suits your choice and budget as it supplies cars that really suit every budget, every class and every fashion. Therefore, do not wait and flaunt your love through Infiniti in Nassau. It is the best possible gift a man can gift it to his family.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Capture-the-roads-with-Infiniti-in-Nassau/90456

Your Car is Not a Cafe ... Or Is It?

2008-02-29T00:25:00.001-08:00
It's a familiar occurrence: you're driving to work in the morning, listening to your iPod, and periodically taking your coffee cup from the cup holder and taking a swig, when the sip ends in a grimace. Why? Because the coffee's gone cold. It's happened to everyone at one point or another, and if not cold coffee, than the reverse has happened, your once-refreshingly cool water bottle has become tepid and unappealing after just a few miles of sunny street.

The good news is that car manufacturers also have this problem in their own cars, and some are taking advantage of it to spark new designs in cup holders and glove boxes that don't quite turn your vehicle into a vending machine, but do give you the ability to keep hot drinks hot, and cold drinks cold, at least while the car is actually running.

The 2007 Chrysler Sebring was the first to offer heated and cooled cup holders. They're in the center console, and have a switch to change the setting from "heat" to "cool." (They also sport glowing lights that match the rest of the console dials, but that has no effect on your coffee.) Heating tops out at 140 degrees F, while cooling drops your beverage temperature to a chilly 35. These well-style cup holders also do a great job of making sure your beverage doesn't tip over or slosh out, and if you're not the coffee drinking type, you can also use the cup holder to warm a container of Campbell's Soup at Hand.

Slightly less versatile is the Chill Zone now appearing on all 2008 Dodge Avengers and some Calibers, as well as a few Jeeps. It is a section at the lower front of the glove compartment that has been re-engineered to hold up to four 12-ounce beverage cans, and keep them cold. Dodge actually did a survey as part of their planning for this feature, in which they determined that 26% of Americans don't use their glove box at all, let alone to store gloves, so it seems like a logical place to put an in-car cooler.

One has to wonder, however, if turning your car into a food warmer or drink cooler comes with a price. Should we be encouraging the habit of eating behind the wheel, or should we be looking at laws enforcing DWE - driving while eating?

Insurance companies are only beginning to track food- and beverage-related accidents, but already they'll tell you that sipping coffee and operating a steering wheel at the same time double your chances of being in an accident, and some companies have created lists of dangerous foods, which includes items likely to spill and burn, as well as those that are simply messy, and distract you from the road in order to preserve the cleanliness of your clothing and upholstery. It's not surprising the coffee is the number-one item on such lists, but it may be interesting to note that filled doughnuts are also considered a driving hazard, both because they are sticky and because they have a tendency to glop jelly or cream when you bite into them.

The danger in eating in the car is as real as that of using your cell phone behind the wheel, and there is no dearth of hands-free technology for phones, so maybe we should consider Chrysler's cup holders and Dodge's coolers as ersatz safety features. After all, if your drink or snack can maintain its temperature until you reach your destination, there's no reason to snack while you steer.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Your-Car-is-Not-a-Cafe-----Or-Is-It-/90755

Auto Glass Repair Shops Fall under Scrutiny

2008-02-29T00:12:00.000-08:00
Auto glass repair shops have fallen under some pretty serious scrutiny over the past few years. Remarkably, auto glass services has been marketed as one of the best home based businesses to get into and brand new auto glass repair shops are opening up all over Dallas.

Thus, after your windshield has fallen victim to a sailing roadway projectile or your rear passenger window has been annihilated by someone in search of a free stereo, the chances of needing an auto glass services company in the future are good. The process of choosing a strong, well founded auto glass services company should not be rocket science. Unfortunately, with the dramatic increase in fly by night, here today but gone tomorrow home based auto glass repair businesses popping up, college degrees might become necessary.

Fortunately for the auto glass repair industry, whether you are seeking a windshield repair or a minor divot patch, the auto glass services companies which are holding their own are those that are dedicated to providing the best service, educating their staff on new techniques, and investing in their business for tomorrow. While this is possible with some of those who jump into the auto glass services industry as a prime self employment business, those who are simply looking for easy money are dropping off the radar faster than they can take their signs down.

The impact on the industry has been noticed however, and consumers are becoming more and more skeptical of those who are maintaining small businesses. Windshield repair in Dallas is a near guarantee if you spend any amount of time behind the wheel. In some areas of Dallas, auto glass repair is a near guarantee if you park your car without a security system. This is why the fly by night auto glass services industry keep cropping up in this area. It is also the reason why they are not able to maintain their business, shutting down quickly, sometimes with cars sitting in their driveways waiting for repair.

Auto glass services indicate that the company in question offers additional services. While windshield repair and auto glass repair are the two most common needs, other jobs like window tinting should be readily available from a business that is dedicated to running a functioning business and isn't out there hoping for a quick new career. Sometimes, a simple inquiry into what other services the company in question offers is a fast way to determine the legitimacy of the company. Word of mouth, internet reviews, and company standards are also part of the evaluation process.

One should never assume that just because a company is family owned and operated, that it is a fly by night company. In fact, many auto glass services companies are owned and operated by families and are even located on the family's property. There is a big difference between a "work at home business idea" and a business that is on one's property. High quality auto glass repair comes from a sound education in technique and style along with a firm hand at practice. This is not a skill that can be mastered through reading a few handouts and developing a few tricks of the trade.

A few key tips on choosing a high quality auto glass service center include longevity (has the business been there awhile or is it brand new?) and obvious successful windshield repair and other window repair services. Obvious success includes written testimonials that are often included in business literature, a chronically packed parking lot (beyond employee parking) and warranties. If they come to you, that's a bonus. However, it's not a requirement. If the auto glass repair company you are seeking doesn't work with insurance companies and expects you to file your own claim for a reimbursement, this is a serious red flag.

Long term businesses will most likely work directly with your insurance company in order to provide you with the easiest, most hassle free experience possible. After all, like any good business, you are looking for quality craftsmanship that goes hand in hand with excellent customer service skills. One without the other is like cake without icing. Good? Yes. Could it be better? Absolutely. And finally, a business that has more than one location, even if they come to you for the repairs, is a sign of a higher quality auto glass service company.

David Warren is owner of Apple Glass Company, a glass repair and replacement firm that serves the Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas markets. Contact David Warren at 281-440-1292 or visit www.appleglasscompany.com to schedule a service appointment.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Auto-Glass-Repair-Shops-Fall-under-Scrutiny/102288

Jeep Wrangler

2008-02-28T05:44:00.000-08:00
This is the newer model of Jeep Wrangler; it is wider and bigger than the previous model to provide the owner and passengers with maximum comfort and interior space. Also, this model has a different chassis which makes it more suitable for off road presentation as well as on road soothe driving. The Wrangler vehicle provides you with more space and experiences as it has four doors as well as five passenger seats. For maximum cargo suppleness, the unlimited Wrangler models include a 60/40 split folding backseat for three passengers. This vehicle is great for those family camping and fishing trips but it is also ideal for your every day ride.

Under the load panel in the trunk you will find a hidden compartment that allows you to lock away your valuables and things you wish to keep safe. It is also a perfect place to keep all the tools and equipment you would need should you obtain a flat tire. It can hold all kinds of things like tow rope, first aid kit, tools, jumper cables and related items. When the bin is locked, no one will be able to have access to it so you can also lock your valuables in there when you have to leave your car but cannot take it all with you. On each door of the Jeep Wrangler there are lock cylinders, these can also be found on the swing gate and glove compartment. Compared to the previous model of this vehicle, the glove compartment is an advantageous 35% bigger than before.

The aspect that people like most about the Jeep Wrangler is that fact that the interior is so easy to clean. So when you get home from a heavy day of off road fun, all you have to do is remove the carpet on the floor of the jeep and wash the floor. Connect a hose pipe and rinse and wash the floor of your jeep and if required, the carpet can be taken inside and vacuumed. The outside of the Jeep can be washed normally, just keep in mind that you might want to use a soft cloth to avoid any kind of scratches or damage.

The Jeep Wrangler is 20% less noisy when on the road, compared to the previous models. Numerous aspects of the Jeep were improved with the Wrangler to provide the driver with a quieter ride which allows them more concentration on the road and also makes listening to music slightly easier.

The Jeep Wrangler also offers an instrument panel with four airflow outlets. The panel is available in either dark or gray. The panel features two sets of powerful speakers that are mounted just above the instrument panel. The exterior of the vehicle can be purchased in these colors;

Flame Red
Stone White
Light Greystone Pearl
Black
Jeep Green Metallic
Bright silver Metallic
Red Rock Crystal Pearl
Steel Blue Metallic
Rescue Green Metallic

These are all great colors to choose from, but the choice is yours. It often depends on the personality of the driver to determine which color would best suit them.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Jeep-Wrangler/90766

All About The Engine Of The Porsche Chayenne

2008-02-28T00:51:00.001-08:00
With every new automobile, Porsche tried to redefine the meaning of performance, by creating a more powerful engine. Cayenne Turbo makes no exception to this rule. Like all Porsche engine, it is hand assembled and the twin turbo V8 rises to an exacting level of technical excellence.

Motronic ME7.1.1.is a system that controls the split-second precision of the Cayenne V8 and V6 super engine. This new highly intelligent engine management system balances impressive power with great smoothness. All this to prove that Cayenne`s "brain" matches its brawn. The Motronic system is built to monitor a wide range of sensors and engine components. It compares streams of data with corresponding sets of reference values, all this in a speed of milliseconds. Then, if it finds any differences, the system adjusts key engine functions, such as the ignition of fuel injection, based on this comparison. Into Motronic management are included other key systems, such as onboard diagnostics and cylinder-specific knock control, with automatic adaptation to any change in fuel quality. All this for optimal performance in all driving conditions.

This process is seamless and automatic so the engine has a great level of power and torque. Also, another great result is better fuel economy and lower emissions in the exhaust stream.

Another function of the Motronic system is the managing of air flowing into the engine to ensure maximum levels of performance. It does that by regulating boost pressure on the Cayenne Turbo.

The Cayenne model includes another system, the resonance induction system with a variable-length intake manifold. This is also an inventive engineering concept that uses pressure waves created by the inlet valves. It does this to increase the density of the incoming air, which, in the end, will increase the amount of energy released during combustion. There are two intake tubes, and depending on the speed, the system will select one of them. The longer tube is used at lower speeds in order to maximize low-end torque. At around 4250 rpm, it switches to shorter Intake tube so that it maximizes power output with a more eager throttle response.

The Porsche Cayenne engineers wanted to improve combustion for more power, better fuel economy, reduced emissions and less maintenance. To do so, they created a static high-voltage ignition system with separate ignition coils on each individual spark plug. This is an advanced method that allows a longer spark-plug life. The sequential fuel injection system is equally advanced. A returnless fuel supply system serves each injector in order to continuously adjust the precise air/fuel mix. The result is of course a better environment, because it controls the emissions.
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/34895/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/All About The Engine Of The Porsche Chayenne

Approach an authentic dealer to get original Infiniti part

2008-02-28T00:38:00.000-08:00
With the enhancing standard of living, luxury has become an integral part of every human's life. Since car is one of the major symbols of luxury and status, people get attracted towards those models, which look unique and elegant. However, sometimes these people forget that car is an expensive asset and it should be bought only after a through research and analysis of performance. It is for sure that people who judge a car only by its look face variety of problems while maintaining their car; therefore, to avoid any such problem it is must to check out services that are mentioned by the dealer during and after the guarantee period. You can never imagine that improper knowledge of your car and its parts can cause major problems in future as a maintenance service provider can plant duplicate parts in your car. Infiniti dealers are one of those authentic dealers who provide their customers with original Infiniti part even after guarantee period.

Definitely, no one would like to use duplicate parts in his or her car; since it is a matter related to the performance of the car, every car owner should check out whether the parts he or she is buying are original or not. The moment you go for an Infiniti car with authentic dealer, you can be rest assured that the Infiniti part he will be using are original and durable. Normally, Infiniti cars are known for their durable parts, performance and chic looks but in any case of injury or malfunction of any part the customer can confidently go for new Infiniti part with authentic maintenance service provider. In the present situation where every automobile manufacturer is introducing variety of models everyday it can be quite difficult for a customer to make a sensible decision.

Buying an Infiniti car is undoubtedly a wise a decision for every car lover, as it not only gives him or her desired performance but also assures exclusive and reliable future services. Infiniti cars are a great way to experience great comfort and style; moreover, its dealers are found all over the world so that one may manage to get original Infiniti part at the time of maintenance. Buying Infiniti from an authorized dealer will relieve you from the tension of maintenance and servicing; it also gives you additional advantage of discount on services with various dealers of your area.

Since market of duplicate car parts is very widespread and not anyone can determine whether any part is original or not, it is advisable to buy a car part from a certified dealer or showroom only. If you own any of Infiniti model and you often take it on long journeys then make sure that the city you are approaching has any Infiniti deals or not. Having an idea about available dealer will help you at the time of problem so that if in any case your car demands replacement of any particular part, you may arrange an original Infiniti part easily.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Approach-an-authentic-dealer-to-get-original-Infiniti-part/96507

The Unseen Value of Window Replacement

2008-02-28T00:28:00.001-08:00
It would not seem as though auto window replacement or windshield repair would really have a huge impact on the world around us. A rock takes out our windshield and we call an auto glass company, and our problems are solved. Jimmy hits the golf ball toward three cars parked in the driveway, and to his surprise actually hits one, and the windshield repair staff shows up an hour later.

A bad storm causes terrible debris to fly through the air and when it's all over, the auto glass company comes out for a window replacement. These are the types of repairs that most of us are used to, that make sense to us, and that don't necessarily impact our lives beyond allowing us to return to our conveniences and our own schedule. However, in Houston, there is an auto glass company doing more for their community than just replacing windows.

Unfortunately, there are several communities around the Houston area that are riddled with violence. In their violence, windows are shattered right along with the lives that are rocked by such violence. When a child is plowed down in a drive by shooting, the shot out windows remain as a bitter memory to those lost in one single, terrible event. Window replacement donated by various Houston auto glass companies can not heal the pain of the lost children, but can at least help to erase the nasty sting that the memories of the violence has left behind.

A simple donated window replacement can help in the healing process, by removing the visual reminders of the violence and allow the communities to remember the victims as they were in life, rather than in death. A simple windshield repair can remove the evidence of those who tried to run, those who lost the fight, and those who will never be brought to justice. Living with violence is not something that we should have to put up with, and yet thousands of families in the Houston area are forced to live with other people's irrational behaviors and suffer the consequences. One wouldn't think this is a place where an auto glass company could do some good.

Yet to date, hundreds of vehicles have been repaired in the wake of violence. This simple act helps communities attempt to move forward and continue to fight against the violence that shatters the lives of thousands of families every year. Windshield repair is nothing in the face of a drive by shooting, but ultimately, the more the communities can be cleaned up after the event, the stronger the community ties are to the world around them.

Simple acts like these are what make the auto glass companies of Houston special. While windshield repairs and window replacements don't seem to provide much worldwide impact. Every now and then you should dare to look a little farther behind the glass, to see the people who are involved in the business. Understanding their unique role in these communities isn't so hard. Auto glass companies, just as all other companies, are made up of people. When people offer whatever skill they can to help improve a situation, everyone benefits.

Windshield repair and window replacement is a fine art learned in the shops around the country, and most auto glass technicians wake up in the morning, head off to work, put in a full day, and return home to their family. This is the rhythm that we all enter into. When just one persona stops, whether they know how to build a home lost in a hurricane or provide a windshield repair service damaged in a drive by, these are the people that make a real difference in the world. These are the people who can be considered heroes for simply recognizing the basic needs of people in crisis and coming to their aid in their best capacity.

The auto glass company who is most involved in this project has never really tooted its own horn or stood out to be recognized. Their auto glass technicians did the deeds they felt would help in the wake of a drive by victim who tugged at their heart strings, a three year old girl. These small steps give everyone the basic empowerment to help change the world as they can, and to help others rise above the unnecessary and irrational behaviors of others that land at their feet.

David Warren is owner of Apple Glass Company, a glass repair and replacement firm that serves the Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas markets. Contact David Warren at 281-440-1292 or visit www.appleglasscompany.com to schedule a service appointment.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/The-Unseen-Value-of-Window-Replacement/102289

V2V - Lets Get Our Cars Talking to Each Other Posted By : Rob Parker

2008-02-27T23:45:00.000-08:00

Since 2005 General Motors has been testing a technology it calls vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication. (Others refer to the idea as dedicated short range communications, DSRC for short, or car-to-car safety networking.) The idea is to replace all the multiple sensing systems that are cropping up in modern automobiles for such safety functions as lane awareness and driver alertness with a single comprehensive system that will analyze data and deliver warnings not just from the car you're driving, but potentially from the cars around you as well.

A car equipped with a GPS receiver like that present in GM's own OnStar system; a short-range, 5.4 GHz radio; and a connection to the braking system, is well on its way to realizing V2V capability. Such a system, with a healthy dose of computing power added, could take over for long range scanners controlling adaptive cruise control, vision sensors scanning forward of the car for objects, blind spot monitoring, and lane change assistance.

Some of the earliest test drives with V2V systems under development by GM were in Cadillacs with a trunk load of equipment, as many as four separate computers handling GPS positioning and wireless communication. But by the time V2V becomes a functional reality with an effective distance of 2.5 meters -- in the next 5 to 7 years by GM's estimates -- all functionality could be reduced to a single chip constantly sending information about the vehicle's position and direction of travel.

Warnings sent to the driver are handled by visual cues on the dash and in the mirrors, auditory warning alerts, and even seat vibrations. For instance a potential problem to the left or right of the vehicle might cause the corresponding side of the driver's seat to vibrate, a system that might seem annoying or even ludicrous on first blush, but one that quickly becomes integrated into the driver's perception of what's going on with the car and its surroundings.

Although initial functionality will deliver the most obvious information about obstacles in the car's blind spots, a dangerous degree of proximity, and similar situations, the sky is the limit when two cars start sharing information. The car in front of you, for instance, might blink its tail lights to say, "Hey, you're getting too close." Transponders embedded in the pavement could signal vehicles to slow down as they approach dangerous intersections or deliver information about the status of stop lights to aid with traffic flow.

As a leader in the field of vehicle telematics, GM is working to incorporate V2V as a comprehensive sensing and communications system. Obviously the greatest initial hurdle to the effectiveness of the system will be infrastructure. The more cars that incorporate V2V, the more useful it will become, performing functions undreamed of in the world of passive safety functions. According to GM's figures, approximately 800,000 blind spot accidents occur each year. They'd like to take that down to zero by making cars not only more self-aware, but more social, sharing vital data vehicle to vehicle.

Source: http://www.reprint-content.com/Article/V2V----Let-s-Get-Our-Cars-Talking-to-Each-Other/161984

You Need To This About The Porsche Boxster

2008-02-23T07:50:00.001-08:00
The Porsche Boxster and Boxster S are fast, powerful cars and most of all the best-handling production roadsters on the planet. Introduced in 1996, it remained essentially unchanged, other than moderate horsepower and interior-options tweaks. That's what Porsche usually does with the successful models: it retains car look and configuration for ages. A more powerful second-generation Boxster was introduced in 2005 and it keeps Porsche's conservative evolutionary path. Like its precedent, it is a mid-engine, six-cylinder two-seater that looks like Porsche Spyder. Still, over half of Boxster`s structure and electronics are borrowed from the 911 Carrera. The 2005 Boxster looks sprightlier than its 2004 equivalent, thanks to the revision of the torque and the 15 added hp and the extra power coming on strongly between 2000rpm and 4000 rpm. The 2005 Boxster S virtually equals the acceleration and top-speed performance of Porsche's expensive 911 Carrera. The Boxster exhaust has been tuned to play a distinctive tromboning wail like no other car. This is a amazing thing thinking that both engines are smaller versions of the six-cylinder in the Carrera.

The transmission for base Boxters is five-speed manual but the optional variant offers a six-speed. Both models can also be fitted with a five-speed Tiptronic, the superb Porsche-designed automatic transmission that began the trend toward manually shifted automatics.

The bodywork and the interior of the Boxster are of high quality, but considering that there's noting tricky or purely decorative, we can definitely say that these are not opulent cars. Still, the interior has been improved since the old car was often criticized for being to cheap-looking. The center console has been upgraded with revised switch-gear and titanium look paneling. The seats are more supportive and body-shaped in the new version, making them look absolutely superb. Unlike other roadsters, the Boxster has no problem swallowing luggage for a long trip: it has two trunks, a small one in the rear and an amply deep one under the front hood.

One of The Boxster`s best qualities is the powered convertible top, very quick to retract or re-erect. In the new Boxster, the top can be operated at speeds up to 30 mph. The triple-layer padded cloth tops (with a heated-glass rear window) is as weather-tight and quiet as most metal roofs.

The Boxster is called a mid engine-car. The reason is that the sweet six-cylinder engine is mounted behind the seats, just fore of the rear axle. So if you wand to see what's under the hood once in while, well...you can't do that with The Boxster. The only way to see the engine is from underneath or by meticulously removing body panels, which mechanics must do to service the engine. But, the good news is that having the engine mounted closer to the center of the car makes for better weight distribution. And that's what makes the car handle so well.
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/34896/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/You Need To This About The Porsche Boxster

All About The Porsche 911 Turbo

2008-02-23T06:30:00.000-08:00
In 2006, Dr. Ing. H.c. Porsche will extend it's current product line with the addition of a new 911 Turbo, the sixth generation of the 911 series. This top-of-the-range model will have its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on February 28, 2006 and as from June 24, 2006 it will be available in German dealerships. The 911 Turbo (type 997) has a few improvements. It has an output of 480 bhp at 6,000 rpm, a 3.6 litre engine, a rated torque of 620 Nm and a maximum torque available between 1,950 and 5,000 rpm. All these numbers are translated into driving performance, as the 911 Turbo with six-speed manual transmission only needs 3.9 seconds to get from zero to 100 km/h.

The coupe reaches 200 km/h in 12.8 seconds. Despite these performance statistics, Porsche developers succeeded to keep the average consumption to 12.8 liters per100 km. For those who need even more speed, the 911 Turbo offers the optionally Tiptronic S automatic transmission. This way, it can reach 100 km/h from a standing start in just 3.7 seconds and 200 km/h in a mere 12.2 seconds. Both manual and automatic transmissions have a top speed of 310 km/k. Available for the first time, the optional "Sport Chrono Package Turbo" enhances the vehicle's flexibility even further.

The Porsche 911 Turbo features a redesigned all-wheel drive with an electronically controlled multi-disc clutch. The result will be the transfer of the available power to the road. That's because, depending on the driving conditions, this system will determine the optimal torque distribution to ensure the best-possible drive. Also, Porsche Traction Management (PTM) ensures variable power distribution to the two driven axles. This means that on the road the 911Turbo will prove outstanding traction in the rain or snow, high agility on narrow country roads and optimal active safety even at high speeds.

The new 911 Turbo's driving performance is duly tempered by its brake system, which comprises monobloc fixed-caliper disc brakes with six pistons at the front axle and four at the rear. The diameter of the internally ventilated and perforated brake discs at the front and rear wheels is 350 millimeters. An optimized ceramic brake system that Porsche offers is Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB). This high-tech system reduces with 17 kilograms the standard brake system and provides an excellent fading stability.

The major bodywork change of the 911 Turbo is the modified front end with its distinctive, tautly drawn cooling air inlets. Combined with the standard oval bi-xenon headlights, it will define the new unmistakable image. From the rear perspective too, the Turbo will seem more powerful. This is due first and foremost to its tail end, 22 millimeters wider than that of the previous model, to which the redesigned wing spoiler element has been aligned.

Secondly, the lateral air inlets behind the doors have been redrawn and now they offer a more efficient supply of cooling air to the charge-air intercoolers.

The basic price for the 911 Turbo is 115,000 Euros. In the USA, from July 8, 2006, the vehicle will be available at $122,000 (not including taxes).
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/34897/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/All About The Porsche 911 Turbo

Buying A Car Online? What You Need To Know About Auto Transport

2008-02-23T06:18:00.001-08:00
It was bound to happen. It just made sense. Everything else was being sold online so some savvy businessperson decided to take car buying to the Internet. It was a great idea that has caught on like wildfire. There have been countless people who've found a real creampuff on eBay Motors or other used auto sites, made a bid, won the auction and then thought, "Oh heck! How am I going to get this thing home?"

But, just as with most other online shopping, having your purchase shipped means adding an additional fee. This translates into hiring an auto transport company. Before choosing the first company that presents itself, let's review some things you'll need to be aware of in order to ensure a successful transaction.

Coordinating With Your Seller

All auto transport companies have criteria that must be met before they will agree to ship your vehicle. This is for the driver's safety as well as the safety of your car. Since the seller must prepare the car for shipping, you'll want to check with him/her prior to making your purchase to verify that they are willing and able to comply with the auto transport company's specifications. Used car dealers will find this a normal part of the procedure. Individuals, however, may not be aware that their help will be needed to arrange shipping.

For instance, the vehicle must be operational. If you've purchased, for instance, a classic car that you intend to restore, you'll need to let the auto transport company know ahead of time. Height and ground-clearance limits must be met. The battery must be secure in a mounting bracket. The car must be clean and will be required to have no more than a 1/2 tank of gas. There are other stipulations you'll need to clear with the seller also. Check with the auto transport company you get a quote from for details.

Open or Enclosed Carrier - Hard Tie of Soft Tie?

You'll usually have an option of open or enclosed carrier. Open carrier is exposed to the elements during transport. Your vehicle will typically be chained down (hard tie) and the suspension compressed to reduce the up and down movement. This helps protect your car as well as steady the driver's load. Certain vehicles don't have the proper tie down points provided by the manufacture, so these vehicles would be required to utilize soft tie straps in lieu of chains. This type of shipping uses wheel straps to stabilize the cars.

Enclosed service is offered for several reasons. Perhaps you are a discriminating buyer or have purchased a special year, make and model of vehicle or you prefer to have added protection from weather and road debris. This is the preferred option for those buying high-end or classic cars. The vehicles are soft tied to the transport.

Where To Cut Costs

Obviously, you want your vehicle taken care of during transport, but you also want the best value possible. So how do you reach a happy medium? There are a few areas where you can help reduce costs. For instance, picking your vehicle up at a central terminal is less expensive than having it delivered directly to your door. Ask about options when you request a quote to determine where you can trim costs if necessary.

It's also important to recognize the confusing messaging on the Internet regarding auto transport. Many of the companies promise multiple "free quotes" when, in fact, they are simply selling the rate requests to brokers. The brokers then resell the transportation need to carriers whom you ultimately have a relationship. This can create confusion and concern when you invest thousands of dollars on a vehicle to transport. Be sure to understand the nature of the transaction. Ultimately a carrier has to transport your vehicle!

The used car business is booming thanks to online auctions and the availability of auto transport companies. The two working together make it possible to purchase a used car from virtually anywhere in the country. But before deciding to buy online, make sure your seller will assist with shipping the vehicle by complying with any necessary specifications set forth by the transporter. Once you have his/her assurance, your post-sale experience should be a snap!

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Buying-A-Car-Online--What-You-Need-To-Know-About-Auto-Transport/96904

Want to buy a rally car? Check out the rally cars for sale online!

2008-02-23T06:09:00.000-08:00
The auto market has found a trusted ally in the Internet, more specifically in the websites that advertised the available cars for sale. People have started trusting this process, because it was fast and easy and it offered more possibilities than a local newspaper, for example. Rally cars for sale are a category that is now available for all those passionate about rallying, but also those that see rally cars as collection pieces.

There are speed maniacs and there are talented pilots that have been rallying for some time. These are usually the target of the rally cars for sale ads. When looking for rally cars that have good prices, in good condition and have a lot of potential, you should look for rally cars that can help you get to the performance that you wish for. There is not too much to know about how an ad is put together. The information is exact and clear, easy to understand for anyone that could be interested. The brands available are not only from well known and appreciated German producers, but also Japanese or French companies. You can choose what you prefer by price or by the specific details provided in the ad. This is where you also find the contact details of the person selling the car. This can help you get in touch with the person that is selling without paying extra fees for intermediates.

Rally cars are usually the type of vehicles that require a lot of investing. Any car can be a rally car, with the right adjustments. The idea is that all the components that are added to the vehicle must be certified by the committees that deal with this type of competitions and with the measures that need to be taken in order to make rally cars fit for competing. Rally cars for sale on the Internet already have the necessary approvals and the right adjustments that would get them to participate legally in the rallying business. This is an important matter for those that buy rally cars simply to have the right equipment to take part in rallies, without any other significant investments. Rally cars have various prices, depending on the type of parts that have been added or modified. There are certain groups created in accordance to how powerful the engine is. Not all cars can be part of any competition. Professional rallying requires certain standards. If the rally cars that have been announced to be used in a rally do not fulfill all the requirements then they are not allowed to be driven in a professional rally. The ones that are looking for something in particular at the" rally cars for sale" section on the web page should know exactly why they are buying the vehicle for and what can be done with it once it is paid and off the market.

The people that are in the rally cars business know all that there is to know about these automobiles and what they represent for a person that is indeed passionate about speed and driving. For example, in a rally that is organized by professionals, there are sponsors, teams with technical support, co-pilots and cars that are prepared for any occurrence. The legal organizations that plan these events are extremely strict and not at all flexible when it comes to the safety of the drive. This is why it is best to check the rally cars that are for sale if they have all it takes to be part of such a great competition. Usually, if they have been part of such events previously, there should be no doubt that they are flawless at the safety chapter. All rally cars have certain standards that they should meet, should these vehicles be used in professional rallies.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Want-to-buy-a-rally-car--Check-out-the-rally-cars-for-sale-online-/102453

HID kits Posted By : Roberto Bell

2008-02-23T00:46:00.001-08:00

The HID conversion kit is to upgrade now to same lighting system as seen on cars such as BMW, Lexus or a Porsche. The HID conversion kit is a revolutionary concept in automotive lighting which provides 3 times more light on the road rather then the traditional halogen head lights. Each of these light uses a tube of Xenon gas, and a smaller amount of other noble gases which is been placed between two high voltage electrodes. When these electrodes are been activated it starts omitting either a bright blue or a white light. These are used to regulate the flow of the electricity which provides a high intensity beam which will never fluctuate.

HID conversion kits use internal igniter technology which is almost similar to other products which are produced in Germany. These kits come with 2 * ballasts to fit the car headlights and if you are planning to go for a cheaper one it will only contain only 1* HID bulb and 1* ballast. The bulb would be brighter, whiter light, stretching the meters ahead of the car which ensures the improved clarity of the vision in comparison to halogen lighting systems and it makes the driving less tiring in the evening and at night and therefore it is been considered as safer.

Once you have driven with the HID conversion kit you would never like to drive a car with any other dim dirty yellow halogen head lamps. It is 300% brighter than the average equivalent 60 watt halogen lighting. It has a 6000 k day light colour temperature and has a 3000 hours of life too, and comes with high quality kits and it is absolutely CE approved and it would draw only a 35 watts which would be simple to install, plug and play wiring harness, and it has waterproof connections for external uses also, and it is juts simple to use and install and they are fully and magnetically EM shielded so that no interference will happen with on board electronics etc. unlike the other cheaper HID systems. And these HID conversion kits are completely suitable for use on dipped and high beam applications and it is completely unlike any other systems on the market.

The advantages of the conversion kit are longer life; safety; appearance; and it comes right from 3500 k to 10000 k and these kits can be easily upgraded with no other additional equipment.

Source: http://www.reprint-content.com/Article/HID-kits/159498

Pimp My Ride: Hottest Show On TV Today

2008-02-22T23:52:00.001-08:00
Pimp My Ride is a popular television program produced by MTV and involves taking a car that may be in bad condition and restoring as well as customizing it and, in its original form, was hosted by rapper Xzibit. The focus of Pimp My Ride is to choose young car owners between the ages of 18 to 24 who are living in the Los Angeles/Southern California region and, normally, the show begins with a participant showing his or her car to MTV to try to convince them of the need for it to be "pimped".

Once this has been done in Pimp My Ride, then rapper Xzibit pays a visit to the owner's house and after a careful look and some wisecracks about the defects in the car makes the owner a promise of completing its restoration. Then the car is transported to a custom body shop of either West Coast Customs or Galpin Auto Sports (GAS) where their shop teams put in new components and parts and generally give the car a complete makeover, right from the interior to its exterior.

Every car selected on Pimp My Ride has been customized for the owner, keeping in view his or her interests and personalities. This may include getting a complete new paint job for the car, changing of accessories, getting chrome work done, changing the tires and rims as well as internal electronic add-ons such as DVD players, video games and TFT screens. However, the makeover in Pimp My Ride is mostly cosmetic in order to just get the car to function once again though there have been instances when the entire engine has been replaced with higher performance engines.

While the majority of cars get customized work done on them, there have been a couple of occasions when the car was simply in too bad a shape. One such instance was when the car was actually two parts of a Ford Escort that had been welded together to form a single unit and this car was thought to be too unsafe for the makeover. On another episode, an auto mechanics student had put together a vehicle that was clearly impossible to pimp, without jeopardizing the safety of the owner. In both cases to give both owners a brand new car with extensive customization for its new owners.

Pimp My Ride is hugely popular because of the colorful personalities of the participants, especially the West Coast Customs' staff and owner. In addition, there are also fancy electronics involved as well as tough interiors and the presence of experts such as Alex, the tire expert, and the paint and body expert, Buck which adds more flavor to the show.

The main attraction of the show is that it answers the dream of all of us who dream of having a car that everyone wants to get a closer look at, instead of hoping no one notices us driving it.

For drivers of old beat up cars, there is hope.
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/37578/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/Pimp My Ride: Hottest Show On TV Today

HID kits Posted By : Roberto Bell

2008-02-22T10:27:00.001-08:00

The HID conversion kit is to upgrade now to same lighting system as seen on cars such as BMW, Lexus or a Porsche. The HID conversion kit is a revolutionary concept in automotive lighting which provides 3 times more light on the road rather then the traditional halogen head lights. Each of these light uses a tube of Xenon gas, and a smaller amount of other noble gases which is been placed between two high voltage electrodes. When these electrodes are been activated it starts omitting either a bright blue or a white light. These are used to regulate the flow of the electricity which provides a high intensity beam which will never fluctuate.

HID conversion kits use internal igniter technology which is almost similar to other products which are produced in Germany. These kits come with 2 * ballasts to fit the car headlights and if you are planning to go for a cheaper one it will only contain only 1* HID bulb and 1* ballast. The bulb would be brighter, whiter light, stretching the meters ahead of the car which ensures the improved clarity of the vision in comparison to halogen lighting systems and it makes the driving less tiring in the evening and at night and therefore it is been considered as safer.

Once you have driven with the HID conversion kit you would never like to drive a car with any other dim dirty yellow halogen head lamps. It is 300% brighter than the average equivalent 60 watt halogen lighting. It has a 6000 k day light colour temperature and has a 3000 hours of life too, and comes with high quality kits and it is absolutely CE approved and it would draw only a 35 watts which would be simple to install, plug and play wiring harness, and it has waterproof connections for external uses also, and it is juts simple to use and install and they are fully and magnetically EM shielded so that no interference will happen with on board electronics etc. unlike the other cheaper HID systems. And these HID conversion kits are completely suitable for use on dipped and high beam applications and it is completely unlike any other systems on the market.

The advantages of the conversion kit are longer life; safety; appearance; and it comes right from 3500 k to 10000 k and these kits can be easily upgraded with no other additional equipment.

Source: http://www.reprint-content.com/Article/HID-kits/159498

Fuel Economy: What You Should Know if You're in the Market for a New Vehicle Posted By : Roberto Bell

2008-02-22T10:24:00.000-08:00

If you've been kicking around the idea of buying or leasing a new SUV and upgrading to a more fuel-efficient model, it's important to know that you may not be comparing apples and apples. This year marked a change in how the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determines how the fuel economy of brand new 2008 cars, pick uppickup trucks, and SUVs is calculated.

Prior to 2008, the EPA, along with automobile manufacturers, used a method of testing a vehicle's ratings that let's just say, didn't adequately recreate real-world conditions. The vehicle was placed on a set of rollers called a 'dynamometer' that allowed the car to sit in place while turning the wheels of the vehicle. Although the drag on the rollers was adjusted to better simulate various driving conditions, the vehicles were never tested in environments where wind resistance could influence the amount of fuel being burned, and the accessories were never running. Hence, the test created a level playing field for all vehicles of the same class to be compared, but the results never depicted the fuel economy you could expect in the real world. In addition, the simulated speeds prior to 2008 were considerably slower than what the average driver actually drives - only 48 miles per hour for highway tests and 20 miles per hour for tests in the city.

Starting this year, the EPA has begun to use an adjusted system of testing requirements to account for all the things that affect fuel economy: faster acceleration, higher speeds in both the city and on the highway, colder external temperatures, and vehicles are now tested with accessories (like the air conditioning) on.
The result? While the new method of testing gives potential buyers a better idea of what they can expect when the vehicle is driven off the lot, overall mileage projections have been reduced. While most people would probably prefer a more accurate method of testing, and therefore more accurate results, the problems arise when we throw another ingredient into the mix. Many automobile manufacturers have upgraded their 2008 lines to be more fuel-efficient as a response to increased gas prices over the past two years. Unfortunately, on paper, these vehicles now appear to be less fuel fuel-efficient than their predecessors. Without an understanding of the new testing system, comparing one's older model to a new 2008 could suggest you're better off keeping the car or pick uppickup truck you have. Chances are, you're not. Even the "non-green" models (models that still operate solely on unleaded gasoline without the assistance of an electrical power source) are becoming increasingly economical.

For example, the popular 2008 Isuzu Ascender advertises a fuel economy of 14 miles per hour gallon in the city and 20 on the highway. At first glance, that might seem lower than the ratings you're used to seeing. In reality, it's right in line with other 2008 midsize SUVs in the Ascender's class; the Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer, GMC Envoy, and Chevy Trailblazer all share the same rating. The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Hummer H3 both rate slightly lower than the Ascender under the new, more accurate tests. Although the numbers will say that this year's Ascender get fewer miles per gallon than last year's, that's not true. The 2008 4.2-liter, six-cylinder engine has actually been recalibrated for efficiency and according to Consumer Guide, accelerated to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds.
The moral of the story? Comparing '08 models to previous years won't tell you much in terms of fuel economy, so stick to comparisons between the newest models to gauge if the SUV or car you've got your eye on stands up to others in its class.

Source: http://www.reprint-content.com/Article/Fuel-Economy---What-You-Should-Know-if-You-re-in-the-Market-for-a-New-Vehicle/149482

Why the 1965 Buick Riviera is one of the Coolest Classic Cars Ever Made

2008-02-22T05:07:00.001-08:00
The Buick Riviera that was released and sold in the year I was born, 1965, was quite a vehicle. It was the last year for the "first generation" Riviera model - and by far the best. A unique, recognizable body style that encompassed a spacious cabin and housed a powerful V8 engine has now become a sought-after gem of classic car collectors. I was fortunate enough to have one for a few months in my youth. Here are some of its power stats:

*0-60 in 8 seconds
*Quarter mile in 16 seconds
*Top speed observed 115 MPH
*Mileage 13.2 MPG

With a 401 Wildcat under the hood, I had no trouble getting where I wanted to go. And while the body was large, it was quite maneuverable thanks to the standard equipment power steering and stiff heavy-duty suspension. And who says getting there fast can't be in style? Check out some of the features it came with:

*Front bucket seats
*Bucket-style rear seats
*Cruise control
*Tilt steering wheel
*Center console floor-shifter & storage comp.
*Power windows, including wing-window!
*Driver side 4-way power seat
*Air conditioning
*AM/FM radio with power antenna

This 1965 car had more stuff than my 1985 Toyota did! I can remember cranking up the radio with the cruise control on doing 75 while adjusting my power seat, the tilt wheel, and the power wing windows. Ah to be young again - those were the days.

But the real feature that made the 1965 Buick Riviera stand out from all the other years were the hidden headlights. Tucked out of sight by the clam-shell covers that opened and closed automatically on the outer edges of the vehicle, they were moved back into the grille for all future body styles (where they had been the previous 2 years.

Back in the mid-80's these cars were a lot easier to find, but there are some original vehicles still sitting in driveways out there is suburban and rural America. You might be able to pick one up for $1,000 if you do your homework. Less populated areas away from big metro cities are your best bet for discovering one of these hidden gems.

Find one, invest some time and/or money into restoring it, and you will have something special. It's a good investment too; you just can't lose restoring classic American cars.

There is another unique Riviera worth mentioning here, and that is the 1972 model, otherwise known as the "torpedo back." A neighbor-mechanic of mine told me they love those things in Las Vegas (this was in 1985). I have never owned one of those - not yet anyway!
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/38881/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/Why the 1965 Buick Riviera is one of the Coolest Classic Cars Ever Made

Local Stock Car Short Track Nostalgia

2008-02-22T04:30:00.001-08:00
What was your earliest memory of auto racing? I remember watching a weekly TV show called "Jalopy Races From Hollywood". This was my earliest memory of having interest in following the sport of auto racing.

One of my most favorite memories when growing up in the 50's and 60's was being able to hear the auto racing action at Freeport Speedway in Freeport New York, from two towns away. They ran races during the summer on Tuesday night, Friday night, and Saturday night. Going to the races as a spectator was also a rush for me.

I loved everything about it, the smell of racing fuel, burning rubber, sawdust and hot dogs from the food concessions. During the late 50's and early 60's the racing drew large crowds of spectators. I can see in my minds eye to this day, all the activity, the vendors selling race collectibles, the sound and smell of the concession stands , Bruno Brackey aka the Flying Mailman due to his day job, George and Ed Brunnhoelzl, George Brunnhoelzl Jr. , Axel Anderson, Richie Evans, Jerry Cook, Charlie Jarzombek, Gary Winters, Fred Harbach, George Wagner, Bill Spade, Tom Baldwin, Red Raynor, Reinhardt and many more.

Freeport Stadium had gone through a series of different promoters over the years. This list included the names Kedenburg, Larry Mendelsohn, Duke Donaldson, and Don Campi. Duke Donaldson was well know as the voice of Freeport Speedway. As the track announcer, Donaldson for many years opened a race event with announcing, "Ladies and Gentlemen. Welcome to Freeport Stadium, the oldest continuously-run racetrack in the United States" and thanking everyone for visiting "Freeport Speedway in tropical Freeport." His style did much to create a feeling of great action and professionalism for any given race event.

The second half of the 60's began a decline in the popularity of stock car racing in Freeport. There were still many promotions being done but paid attendance declined.

Racing at Freeport took a final curtain in 1983 after 50 years of continuous operation.
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/42238/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/Local Stock Car Short Track Nostalgia

Car Safety

2008-02-22T04:17:00.000-08:00
One of the most important aspects more and more automotive manufacturers have been focusing on lately is car safety. The concern is regarding the insertion of more and more systems which will make your car safer and easily to handle in extreme situations. The number of airbags has been increased to protect all the car's passengers and electronic systems, such as anti-lock brakes and stability control, have begun to become widely spread. At first, such systems were introduced on high-end models and in time they were implemented on mainstream models.

When we talk about car safety, we refer to two types of security: passive and active.
The systems which concern the active security of a car are those devices which actively intervene in order to prevent any threat. The anti-lock brakes, the electronic stability and traction control systems are all included in this category and they activate prior to an accident.
If accident has occurred, it is the purpose of the passive security elements to protect the passengers. The special-designed crumple zones, the seatbelts and the airbags are the elements belonging to the passive safety of a vehicle.

The passive safety features work together to protect your life. They are designed from start to work together and if not so, their efficiency has to suffer. For example, an airbag inflated immediately after an accident can cause more harm than good if that person did not wear a seatbelt. The seatbelts are the oldest passive security features included in cars and they also have evolved greatly in time.
One of the most important safety elements is the car's structure and design. Manufacturers use high-strength steel elements which will reduce the chance that the passengers will be injured by different objects intruding the passenger safety cell.
Today's car structures are well studied in test laboratories and they are designed to distribute the immense energies resulting from an accident around the passenger compartment. This cell must remain intact no matter what and it is made from special types of very resistant steel.

The airbags are another important safety feature. Although they are designed to save your life in case of an accident, there have been witnessed cases in which, due to an incorrect position in the car when the accident occurred, they did more harm than good. Such examples are not wearing a seatbelt or situating yourself very close to the dashboard or steering wheel (the minimum distance from the steering wheel should be at least 10 or 12 inches). New airbag designs can deploy in two stages, accordingly to the severity of the crash. Because of their great benefit to car safety, airbag presence in a new car is mandatory in the US, in Canada and in Europe.

The airbag is a special bag made from a thin fabric. It is situated inside the steering wheel, in the passenger's dashboard and other places in the car. Its deployment is controlled by a computer, based on the information received from sensors situated in front of the car. When the energy level inflicted by a crash reaches a certain measurement point, the computer will deploy the bags. Hot nitrogen is used to inflate the bag, and it expands very fast, preventing your head and chest from touching powerfully the interior's hard materials. After expanding from the steering wheel, the gas escapes, allowing you to get out of the vehicle after the crash.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Car-Safety/98726

Contract Hire Services

2008-02-22T04:09:00.001-08:00
Introduction

A contract hire facility is a service whereby the customer does not own the vehicle but can use the vehicle leased out to him by the leasing company for personal or company use. The service and maintenance costs of the vehicle are also borne by the company itself. There are a number of leasing companies listed on the website from where you can choose the leasing company which best suits your requirement.

A leasing company has extensive experience in carrying out contract hire services and can help you boost your revenues and reduce costs by helping you cut down the cost of running the company vehicles and save tax. There may be cases where your business due to financial or other difficulties does not want additional responsibility of owning company vehicles. In such circumstance you should consider Contract Hire which would be the best solution to your problems.

Content

In a contract hire service the vehicle leased to you, continues to be owned by the leasing company. The vehicle is hired by you for a fixed period of time at a fixed monthly amount which is to be paid to the company on a regular basis. The additional costs of maintenance and depreciation are borne by the leasing company thus reducing the burden of the additional costs off the customer's shoulders.

The monthly payment to be made by customers on the vehicles rented to them depends on a number of factors. These factors include the period of the contract, the estimated mileage during the contract period and the probable resale value of the vehicle at the end of the term. This also includes the service and maintenance costs in certain cases. Under the contract hire agreement the lender of the rented vehicle retains ownership and therefore also bears the risks such as unforeseen costs and uncertain resale amounts.

Benefits of Contract Hire Services

There are many tax benefits for customers who take the advantage of contract hire services such as deductions against corporation tax for people using rented vehicles. Where vehicles are used partly for private use, the customer can take advantage of recovering 50% of value added tax as against 100% for rental vehicles. The other advantage of having a contract hire agreement is that the vehicles used by the company are not recorded in the Balance sheet of the company thus improving the company gearing ratios.

A contract hire service agreement gives you the benefit of using a new vehicle for a fixed monthly rent thus enabling you to release capital from your current vehicle by selling it and getting a bigger lump sum amount which you can invest for other important business needs. This also reduces the burden and responsibility which comes while owning a vehicle and you can even save on the maintenance and repair costs of your old vehicle which you can instead sell off and use the new rented vehicle instead. There are options of purchasing the rented vehicle at the end of the contract term if you are satisfied with the usage of the vehicle and if your finances have improved considerably by then.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Contract-Hire-Services/102500

Things to Know when Renting a Car

2008-02-21T10:20:00.001-08:00
In today's society, there are a number of reasons why people rent a car. Some of the top reasons are vacations, a car they own is in the shop and renting a nicer car for a special occasion. Whatever the reason that you are considering renting a car; there are some things that you should know first.

1- It is wise to shop around when looking for to rent a car. Always find at least three rental car companies to compare, although more will be better. Be sure to ask all the companies the same questions to get the most accurate answers. Most rental car companies will have websites online to find basic information, but it is best to call as local branches may have deals that are not advertised online.

2- When you call, be sure to ask about price, vehicle availability, as well as any specials that the branch has to offer. It is worth noting here, that many of these companies will have special arrangements with hotels, airlines or even warehouse stores.

3- You will want to ask about any special instructions that are required of you while renting the car, for example, filling up the gas tank or pick up and drop off times. Not adhering to these policies can result in fees.

4- Many companies that will rent a car to you will also be willing to either deliver the car to you or pick you up and take you to your rental. This service may require a fee, but can be worth asking about if you are flying to your destination.

5- The rental company may offer you insurance to purchase, however, your personal auto insurance may be all you need in the event of an accident with a rental car. Call your auto insurance agent and ask before paying extra at the rental counter.

6- There are a number of choices that are open to you when renting a car. Each class of car will vary in price and gas mileage; consider this when making your decision. While many companies may be willing to upgrade you, this is not always the case. It is wise to choose the car you want and hope for an upgrade than to reserve less of a car and be disappointed when an upgrade is not offered.

7- Have a credit or debit card handy to reserve the rental car with, most companies will only guarantee a car with this assurance.
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/43366/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/Things to Know when Renting a Car

Drive a Hybrid Car in an Economic Way

2008-02-21T09:51:00.000-08:00
There are many ways to improve your car's fuel consumption, car manufacturers introduce more and more technologies in this respect, but the most important factor which can determine a car's fuel economy is the driver itself.

Here are some tips on which you can get better mileage from your car. Be smooth with the acceleration. It is very important to slowly increase your car's speed if you want the fuel to last longer. If you press hard on the gas pedal, a greater amount of gas will be burned.

Look ahead and analyze the situation in front of you. Do your best to avoid getting your car to a sudden stop. If you stop completely your car, you will require more gas to star it again than if you kept a very slow tempo, but did not completely stop your vehicle.
Remember, the base rule is that the faster you go, the more gas your car will require. No matter if you have a small or a big car, because the greater the speed, the more air resistance your car will have to overcome and thus consume more fuel. Another trick is to have your tires inflated to the maximum allowed pressure. It will reduce tire drag and help you reduce your gas consumption. When driving a hybrid car, try to coast as much as possible, because at lower speeds these cars run only with their electric engine. It is the best way to assure a better mileage from a hybrid car, avoid as much as you can operating the gas engine. Because the batteries of a hybrid car are recharged during braking, when you approach a stop light slowly press the brake pedal in advance. More energy will charge the batteries than in the case of a powerful sudden stop.

The mileage numbers you hear in advertisements on hybrid cars are only obtained in ideal situations with a smooth drive. Unless you try to do the same, you will not come close to the mileage you read about. But these tips do not apply only to hybrid cars. No matter what type of vehicle you are driving, following these tips can get you saves in fuel consumption.

Be sure to maintain your car in a good operating shape if you expect low fuel consumption. For example, a properly inflated tire can raise your mileage with up to 3%.

Change your oil and fuel, oil and air filters regularly and with quality products, because your car will run smoother and it require less stress from the engine.

Keep your speed at decent levels and do not accelerate rapidly to the desired speed. You can gain up to 33% fuel economy if you do not drive your car with excessive speeds.

Reduce the amount of time you idle your car. You will obtain significant fuel economy if you warm your vehicle by driving slowly until the correct operating temperature is achieved rather than idling it.

Reducing the weight you carry also can save you some gas.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Drive-a-Hybrid-Car-in-an-Economic-Way/101315

How To Buy A Tractor That Meets Your Needs

2008-02-21T09:43:00.000-08:00
Before making up your mind on buying a tractor, narrow down on the HP you need. This is important both in the long and short runs. This calls for an analysis of the type of work you want to be done by your tractor after factoring in the nature of the terrain you live in.

Even if you need a heavy duty tractor, optimal use of a light/ compact tractor could do away with the need of a big muscle tractor, saving you a lot of money in the process. The torque of the machine has to be adequate enough to haul big loads. Once you narrow down on the HP go for other details like the price you have to pay, insuring that maintenance expenses will be negligible.

The size and location of your ranch or farm is important when you decide on HP.
A compact tractor with 4 wheel drive will not only help in pulling out of mud and snow and other agricultural activities, but also prove effective in hauling bigger loads.

There are both subcompact and compact tractors available in the market. Subcompact and light-duty compact models range from 20 HP to 30 HP. Canopy and cab models are available, equipped with ag-tires for rough terrains.

Heavy duty tractors are handy if you want to plow land, pull stumps or bale hay, and other agricultural activities, such as digging shallow holes, cutting furrows, breaking up the soil or digging a rock using the bucket.

Heavy duty tractors are available in HP ratings of 40 HP and above. These include cab tractors. These are typically equipped with an air-conditioned cab with glass doors and windows, and a steel hood.

Cab tractors are additionally useful in that they offer protection from rain and snow. You are less vulnerable inside the cab, reducing the risk of injury from accidents, resulting from rollovers.

Once you have narrowed down on the HP you need, and whether or not you want a cab, you must think of how much of recurring costs you will have to bear. For instance, does the tractor use petrol, or diesel, for fuel. Diesel is by far the cheaper option.

Are spares available conveniently? How expensive are the spares? Are all accessories available? How expensive are they? This will depend on how many outlets the manufacturer of the tractor has. You should opt for a manufacturer who has a country wide spread of outlets, or who offers toll free technical support, and free shipping of spares, so that it doesn't matter where the dealer is located.

Richard J. Runion is the President of Geostar Publishing & Services LLC. Rich loves net research & blogging. His new blog about NorTrac Tractor is fast becoming popular, as it is comprehensive and well-researched.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/How-To-Buy-A-Tractor-That-Meets-Your-Needs/102530

5 Steps to A Great Rental Car Experience

2008-02-21T03:15:00.000-08:00
There are times in one's life when the use of rental cars cannot be avoided. When someone plows into you at an intersection, when you are taking a 2-day trip and your compact car just does not have enough room to stretch out, these are times when you are happy that there are rental cars at your disposal. Before you rent that car, though, you should know some things about the process.

1- The first step involved in obtaining a rental car is to do research on the companies in your local area. There are a number of nation wide companies and more than likely local companies to choose from when conducting your research. Try to narrow them down to three or four companies that are closest to either your pick up location or your destination.

2- You will want to ask about procedures that may be required by the rental company. Many companies require that the car be fueled up before its return, if this is not done, they will charge you extra for it. It may also be in your best interest to ask what the fee would be if the car is needed for longer than expected as well as what the rate is for late drop off.

3- If you have personal auto insurance, call your agent to see if you are insured with a rental car as well. This will allow you to save money by turning down the insurance offered by the rental company at the time of vehicle pick up.

4- Finally, you have chosen the company and the car, its time to pick it up. Make sure that you have the paper work that you will need. Most companies will require you to show your drivers license, be sure to have it. Also, your proof of auto insurance, if you will be turning their insurance down. A major credit card is necessary; if you are not using cash to rent your car, do not count on them taking a check.

5- Be sure to read the contract and ask questions about anything that you do not understand. It's better to take sometime at the counter or on the phone to pin down the details, than to think you got it and have to deal with the company in the event of an accident. Ask questions!

6- Make sure you know all the rules and regulations on the car as for when you bring the car back to the company when you have finished it they cannot demand money of you for a reason you are not aware off. and incase you crash or are in a accident you need to know what to do.
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/43367/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/5 Steps to A Great Rental Car Experience

HID kits Posted By : Roberto Bell

2008-02-21T00:52:00.000-08:00

The HID conversion kit is to upgrade now to same lighting system as seen on cars such as BMW, Lexus or a Porsche. The HID conversion kit is a revolutionary concept in automotive lighting which provides 3 times more light on the road rather then the traditional halogen head lights. Each of these light uses a tube of Xenon gas, and a smaller amount of other noble gases which is been placed between two high voltage electrodes. When these electrodes are been activated it starts omitting either a bright blue or a white light. These are used to regulate the flow of the electricity which provides a high intensity beam which will never fluctuate.

HID conversion kits use internal igniter technology which is almost similar to other products which are produced in Germany. These kits come with 2 * ballasts to fit the car headlights and if you are planning to go for a cheaper one it will only contain only 1* HID bulb and 1* ballast. The bulb would be brighter, whiter light, stretching the meters ahead of the car which ensures the improved clarity of the vision in comparison to halogen lighting systems and it makes the driving less tiring in the evening and at night and therefore it is been considered as safer.

Once you have driven with the HID conversion kit you would never like to drive a car with any other dim dirty yellow halogen head lamps. It is 300% brighter than the average equivalent 60 watt halogen lighting. It has a 6000 k day light colour temperature and has a 3000 hours of life too, and comes with high quality kits and it is absolutely CE approved and it would draw only a 35 watts which would be simple to install, plug and play wiring harness, and it has waterproof connections for external uses also, and it is juts simple to use and install and they are fully and magnetically EM shielded so that no interference will happen with on board electronics etc. unlike the other cheaper HID systems. And these HID conversion kits are completely suitable for use on dipped and high beam applications and it is completely unlike any other systems on the market.

The advantages of the conversion kit are longer life; safety; appearance; and it comes right from 3500 k to 10000 k and these kits can be easily upgraded with no other additional equipment.

Source: http://www.reprint-content.com/Article/HID-kits/159498

Fuel Economy: What You Should Know if You're in the Market for a New Vehicle Posted By : Roberto Bell

2008-02-21T00:50:00.001-08:00

If you've been kicking around the idea of buying or leasing a new SUV and upgrading to a more fuel-efficient model, it's important to know that you may not be comparing apples and apples. This year marked a change in how the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determines how the fuel economy of brand new 2008 cars, pick uppickup trucks, and SUVs is calculated.

Prior to 2008, the EPA, along with automobile manufacturers, used a method of testing a vehicle's ratings that let's just say, didn't adequately recreate real-world conditions. The vehicle was placed on a set of rollers called a 'dynamometer' that allowed the car to sit in place while turning the wheels of the vehicle. Although the drag on the rollers was adjusted to better simulate various driving conditions, the vehicles were never tested in environments where wind resistance could influence the amount of fuel being burned, and the accessories were never running. Hence, the test created a level playing field for all vehicles of the same class to be compared, but the results never depicted the fuel economy you could expect in the real world. In addition, the simulated speeds prior to 2008 were considerably slower than what the average driver actually drives - only 48 miles per hour for highway tests and 20 miles per hour for tests in the city.

Starting this year, the EPA has begun to use an adjusted system of testing requirements to account for all the things that affect fuel economy: faster acceleration, higher speeds in both the city and on the highway, colder external temperatures, and vehicles are now tested with accessories (like the air conditioning) on.
The result? While the new method of testing gives potential buyers a better idea of what they can expect when the vehicle is driven off the lot, overall mileage projections have been reduced. While most people would probably prefer a more accurate method of testing, and therefore more accurate results, the problems arise when we throw another ingredient into the mix. Many automobile manufacturers have upgraded their 2008 lines to be more fuel-efficient as a response to increased gas prices over the past two years. Unfortunately, on paper, these vehicles now appear to be less fuel fuel-efficient than their predecessors. Without an understanding of the new testing system, comparing one's older model to a new 2008 could suggest you're better off keeping the car or pick uppickup truck you have. Chances are, you're not. Even the "non-green" models (models that still operate solely on unleaded gasoline without the assistance of an electrical power source) are becoming increasingly economical.

For example, the popular 2008 Isuzu Ascender advertises a fuel economy of 14 miles per hour gallon in the city and 20 on the highway. At first glance, that might seem lower than the ratings you're used to seeing. In reality, it's right in line with other 2008 midsize SUVs in the Ascender's class; the Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer, GMC Envoy, and Chevy Trailblazer all share the same rating. The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Hummer H3 both rate slightly lower than the Ascender under the new, more accurate tests. Although the numbers will say that this year's Ascender get fewer miles per gallon than last year's, that's not true. The 2008 4.2-liter, six-cylinder engine has actually been recalibrated for efficiency and according to Consumer Guide, accelerated to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds.
The moral of the story? Comparing '08 models to previous years won't tell you much in terms of fuel economy, so stick to comparisons between the newest models to gauge if the SUV or car you've got your eye on stands up to others in its class.

Source: http://www.reprint-content.com/Article/Fuel-Economy---What-You-Should-Know-if-You-re-in-the-Market-for-a-New-Vehicle/149482

Car Customization and You

2008-02-20T13:49:00.001-08:00
Car Customization and You

Today, the deals on wheels go way beyond being just modes of transport and convenience. A general trend has been observed the world over of more and more car owners taking on car customization of their vehicles to fit further into their scheme of requirements. However, the way you attempt car customization of a vehicle is very important. You need to be focused on accessorizing the vehicle in a way that its overall look is further enhanced. For example, Low profile-alloy wheel tires, tinted windows and normal sized spoilers, could make your passion on wheels look a little hotter.

Similarly, massive supra spoilers and lowering the body to get the Formula One look only causes more damage and makes a great looking car look hideous. Huge bumper guards and company logo stickers not only spoil the overall appearance but also cause damage to the body paint and the structure itself. You need towards making the car look better. Keep in mind that certain car customization simply leads towards unexpected and garish visual results. The resultant look not only 'kills' your car, but also diminishes her ranking and sale value, should you ever attempt to sell her. The inevitable downward plunging resale value adds to your loss.

Car customization should be attempted after research and a lot of deliberation. Always seek the option of others and specially your mechanic or a professional in the field. The car customization should be enhancing and not destructive to the vehicle. A car, like a home, is usually a one time investment for many. When incurring the expenses that accompany customizing your car you should be dead sure that of the changes you want to bring on and work along simple guidelines. Just as you would sport a cravat to bring on the desired look at a special social 'do', similarly, ensure that the car customization does not hamper the body of the vehicle or the running and adds to the visual treat the car already is. Take on a small amount of car customization, instead of going overboard and ending up as owner of a hideous-looking beast.

You could focus on an infant seat if you have a baby at home or sun shield for the windows if the family travels around a lot, together. You could also consider the installation of a special 'disabled' seat for an elderly family member, but remember that any car customization should be attempted only after considering the car make and the space within. Hence, it is very important to take and act on the advice of a professional.

Also remember that many car manufacturers specify non-customization with good reason. Many also take on car customization of the cars at the service centers affiliated and ensure and guarantee the car customization. These are some of the options you should consider when attempting to customize your car.

It is better to go in for a better quality set of tires for your beauty than to fit her with a spoiler where it is not even required. Your car like your home and company, speaks volumes for your personal taste and character.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Car-Customization-and-You/101425

BMW "No Reverse" Transmission Problem

2008-02-20T13:41:00.001-08:00
An automatic transmission is just that- automatic, consequently most people tend to pay very little attention to it until a major problem rears its ugly head.

Picture the scenario- you are driving along in the lap of luxury, the satellite radio blaring and the heated seats on. You have become accustomed to the comfort level and great driving experience brought to you by BMW.

You decide to stop at the local convenience store on your way home to grab some ice cream for the kids and a bottle of water for yourself. Upon returning to your car, you start it up, check your rear view mirror, put the shifter in reverse and then the unthinkable happens- the engine just revs as if it is in neutral and the car goes nowhere!

This article deals with the reasons behind an unexpected loss of reverse in certain BMW automatic transmission equipped vehicles, specifically the 3 series and 5 series vehicles that use the ZF5HP19 or steptronic transmission. This includes the popular 323i, 323ci, 325i, 328i, 330i, 525i, 528i, 530i, X3 and X5 models well as some others built in the 1999 to present model years.

To eliminate confusion, this does not apply to vehicles equipped with the GM 5L40 E transmission, just the ones with the sometimes problematic ZF5HP19. The 5L40 E has some issues of its own that are beyond the scope of this article but are certainly going to be the subject of another.

The failure rate for these transmissions seems to be very high and is expected to become much more of a problem as time goes by.

Typically, the vehicle is working perfectly while driving forward but when it is put in reverse there is a complete and permanent loss of movement to back up.

Reverse is typically a major feat for any transmission to accomplish- imagine the demands that are placed on a gearbox as it is asked to reverse the torque of your engine so that you can back up your nearly 4000 pound vehicle.

By far, the most common cause of the reverse problem in BMW's is the failure of the D-G clutch drum. Specifically, the snap ring that retains the D or reverse clutch breaks out of the clutch drum resulting in an inability for the clutch pack to apply.

The good news is that there is hope in regards to a proper repair. The factory has released an updated part that so far appears to be a permanent fix for this problem.

In our testing and in conjunction with several hundred successful repairs at our facilities, the new part seems to be metallurgically superior in several ways.

We have found that there is an improved radius area as well as slightly thicker casting. In addition to this, the grove that retains the snap ring is also relocated further away from the edge of the drum.

With this issue addressed and attention to detail in several other areas of the ZF5HP19 unit, the transmission can be repaired to "better than new" condition by a competent transmission rebuilder / remanufacturer. In fact, when properly repaired, the ZF gearbox becomes quite robust and can provide an almost indefinite service life.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/BMW---No-Reverse--Transmission-Problem/102802

Finding Cheap Car Transport Services

2008-02-20T13:14:00.001-08:00
If you are moving a standard passenger car and want to investigate different car transport trailer options there are many possibilities in today's auto shipping industry offered to the discerning customer. Open multi-car transport is the most economical and popular option for moving unrestored collector vehicles or everyday cars.

In most situations, your car will be conveyed on an eight or 10-car carrier, the same kind of trucks used to deliver new cars. These trucks are 75 to 80 feet long and about 13 feet high. They can be difficult to maneuver and are limited to major roads that are free of low hanging trees and low clearance bridges. Make sure you are aware of this fact when directing the truck to the pick-up location or to your home.

When a transporter mentions pick up window they are referring to the time surrounding your pick up date. For instance some shippers may have a 14 day window - that way they can pick your vehicle up anywhere between seven days before and seven days after your pick up date. Lower priced carriers will not specify their pick up dates, you however may receive an outstanding price. The down side is that you may not see your vehicle for four or five weeks.

Make sure that the cheap car transport company you choose shows proof of their federal license and insurance requirements. There are many transport companies who do not carry the federal license, bond, or insurance requirements, and will move your car for a low fee, but this leaves you unprotected against theft and damage.

When you are shopping around for an inexpensive car transport service confirm what the total cost of the shipping will be right up front, this will help identify any hidden costs that may arise during the transport, like a fuel surcharge or extra road insurance. As you obtain quotes from several car transport and auto shipping companies, be prepared to provide: origin of pick-up destination, departure date, size and type of cars, type of car transport service you need like door-to-door car transport as opposed to terminal-to-terminal.

Terminal-to-terminal is almost always cheaper. Special car mover or auto shipping requests will usually incur additional costs. If your vehicle is not delivered within the agreed upon dates some cheaper auto transport companies will reimburse you some amount of cash per day towards the rental of an automobile, keep your receipts.

With today's multitude of competing car transport businesses, your chances for finding cheap car transport services are excellent, you can be assured that your search for the best inexpensive car transport service will not go unrewarded.
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/43474/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/Finding Cheap Car Transport Services

Buying a second hand car - some top tips

2008-02-20T12:59:00.000-08:00

Buying a second hand car can be something of a lottery if you are not well informed about cars and their values. And even if you are, there are still some obvious pitfalls you should avoid if you want to ensure that you've bought a quality used car.

The first thing to do when considering buying a second hand car is to acquire a second-hand car price guide. Many newsagents stock these and failing that there are plenty of online guides available. While these won't be free, but they will be a great investment, and the few pounds you spend on a guide could save you hundreds, or even thousands when it comes to buying your car. You'll also get a good indication of what type of vehicle you can afford and what price you should expect to pay.

Although the next tip sounds obvious, it is amazing how many people don't follow it: when you go to look at the car you are interested in, make sure you view it in the daylight! All the flaws, scratches and any other body faults will be clearly visible, and you'll get a much clearer perception of the car than if you viewed it at night. This applies equally, whether you are interested in buying from a garage or a private individual.

Getting a second opinion is a must. But get it from someone who can give you an unbiased opinion and preferably someone with mechanical knowledge. If you don't know anyone personally, major road organisations such as the AA and RAC will inspect the car for you for a fee, although it wouldn't be advisable to organise an inspection until you were sure that that was the vehicle you wanted to buy.

When carrying out visual checks on the car, remember to check the tyres for even wear. If the wear is uneven, then there may be a problem with the car's suspension. Some unscrupulous dealers or individuals may tamper with the mileage on a car, so check that the wear and tear on the vehicle is consistent with the recorded miles. For example, if the car is advertised as doing only 5,000 miles but the tyres are worn and the bonnet is covered in stone chips, then that evidence isn't consistent with the advertised mileage. And if the car is over three years old ask to see its MOT certificate.

Never buy a car without taking it for a test drive - however great it looks stood on the drive or forecourt. But do make sure that you are insured to do so before getting into the driver's seat! By driving the car you'll not only get a feel for whether this is the car for you, but also you can be alerted to any potential problems. Drive at a variety of speeds, up and down hills and in reverse. This way you'll be able to highlight any suspension or clutch problems.

Lastly, stick to your guns; If you are after a particular make of car - whether it's a used Ford car, a second-hand Renault Clio or a classic Land Rover - make sure you buy the one you want! Don't be persuaded to come away with a car you didn't really want but that the salesman insists is far superior and a much better deal to your original choice. The chances are it's not!
Adam Singleton is an online, freelance journalist and keen amateur photographer from Scotland. His interests include travelling and hiking.
Source: http://www.articlesalley.com/article.detail.php/55436/289/Classics/Cars_and_Trucks/30/Buying a second hand car - some top tips

Taking care of your cars transmission

2008-02-20T12:52:00.000-08:00
In order to maintain you car in a good shape, to offer you the safety as well the performances it was designed for in the first place, taking care of your vehicle's transmission is a vital thing you should take care of. Modern cars have very complex drive trains, and the transmission being one of the most important elements of it, repairing it because of the in-proper use can be very costly. The most serious operations on a car's drive train can only be executed in specialized shops, but the casual maintenance operations you can make them yourself.

The biggest enemy of the vehicle's transmission is heat. There are many causes for the heating of the transmission's elements, and many are related to operating your car under difficult conditions. Racing with your vehicle, towing a load, or repeatedly putting it in drive and reverse for exiting heavy snow or mud can contribute to the overheating of its ensembles.

If you often are forced to operate your car under these circumstances, you can benefit greatly from adding additional cooling to your transmission. Such a cooler will be mounted on the radiator and it will cool the transmission fluid. Because many SUV owners use them to tow heavy vehicles, they came equipped from the factory with such auxiliary transmission coolers.

In the following paragraph you will find a series of tips about properly maintaining your car's transmission.

The most important aspect is to have your transmission fluid checked on a regular basis. Also check for its color. It should be red. If it had turned brown or it has a burnt smell should be changed at once.

Before buying transmission fluid, check with your car's owner's manual to se the exact type the manufacturer recommends. Never mix two different types of fluid of fluids coming from different manufacturers.

The recommended period to replace it is every 2 years or every 24,000 miles, which ever condition occurs first.

When you want to put your car in reverse, come to a complete stop first. Changing from drive to reverse while the vehicle is still moving will harm your transmission.

In order to protect vital transmission elements, put the cark into park after you have pressed the brake pedal and pull the emergency brake. By doing this, less stress is applied to the drive train.
Always change gears from park to drive only when your engine is at idle.

When towing a very heavy load or when you are climbing abrupt terrain, be sure to disengage the overdrive feature, if your car is equipped with such a option, as it will prevent the car from repeatedly changing gears from and to overdrive. Overdrive is the highest gear in the transmission and it used to allow that vehicle to run at highway cruising speeds with a reduced revs, in order to mainly save fuel and reduce noise. If the automatic gear in your car has a 4-speed transmission with overdrive, the overdrive refers to the 4th gear. The same is with cars with 5-gear automated transmission with overdrive. There is the possibility to have a smaller car, with a 4 or 5 way automated transmission, but without the overdrive function.

Source: http://www.postarticles.com/Article/Taking-care-of-your-car-s-transmission/104956

Online Classified Ad Tips For Selling A Used Car

2008-02-20T12:49:00.000-08:00
When it comes to selling a used car via an online classified ad, you have the opportunity to reach a much larger audience than you would with traditional advertising methods. If you have never sold with this method, or if you feel that your last sale could have gone better, here are some tips to keep in mind that will help ensure a successful used car sale.

The first thing to do is to establish the value of your used car, and the best way to do this is to consult a car values book, and other existing online classified car ads with similar vehicles. You may also consider taking your car to a lot to see what a dealer would offer, and then incorporate all of this information into the price that you include in your ad.

Next, be sure to list the body style, model, and year of your used car, as well as the engine size, color, and mileage. Honesty really is the best policy, and if your car has some less than desirable qualities, like cosmetic dings or rust, be sure to emphasize the positive to offset these negative descriptions. Phrases such as one owner, fuel economy, well maintained, and low mileage stand out to ad readers more than comments about imperfections that can be easily fixed.

After you have determined a price and written an effective ad, the next step is to prepare your vehicle for sale. Have your car professionally cleaned and detailed, and instead of spending money on major repairs, which will likely cost you more than the price that you will receive for the car, plan on being honest about the condition of your car, both in the ad and in person.

Once your ad is posted and your car is ready, it is time to wait for the calls and email inquiries to start rolling in. Be sure to give honest answers to questions, and make an appointment for a specific time to show the car. If the prospective buyer is late or does not show up, do not feel obligated to wait or hold the car for them, just move on to the next person. Always check the title transfer procedures and requirements for your state before you transfer physical ownership of the car, and always demand payment in cash or by certified check to protect your interests.

Online classified ads, when used correctly, can be powerful selling tools, so use yours wisely, following the above tips, and you will be well on your way to a successful sale.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Online-Classified-Ad-Tips-For-Selling-A-Used-Car/102871

Fuel Economy: What You Should Know if You're in the Market for a New Vehicle Posted By : Roberto Bell

2008-02-19T11:07:00.000-08:00

If you've been kicking around the idea of buying or leasing a new SUV and upgrading to a more fuel-efficient model, it's important to know that you may not be comparing apples and apples. This year marked a change in how the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determines how the fuel economy of brand new 2008 cars, pick uppickup trucks, and SUVs is calculated.

Prior to 2008, the EPA, along with automobile manufacturers, used a method of testing a vehicle's ratings that let's just say, didn't adequately recreate real-world conditions. The vehicle was placed on a set of rollers called a 'dynamometer' that allowed the car to sit in place while turning the wheels of the vehicle. Although the drag on the rollers was adjusted to better simulate various driving conditions, the vehicles were never tested in environments where wind resistance could influence the amount of fuel being burned, and the accessories were never running. Hence, the test created a level playing field for all vehicles of the same class to be compared, but the results never depicted the fuel economy you could expect in the real world. In addition, the simulated speeds prior to 2008 were considerably slower than what the average driver actually drives - only 48 miles per hour for highway tests and 20 miles per hour for tests in the city.

Starting this year, the EPA has begun to use an adjusted system of testing requirements to account for all the things that affect fuel economy: faster acceleration, higher speeds in both the city and on the highway, colder external temperatures, and vehicles are now tested with accessories (like the air conditioning) on.
The result? While the new method of testing gives potential buyers a better idea of what they can expect when the vehicle is driven off the lot, overall mileage projections have been reduced. While most people would probably prefer a more accurate method of testing, and therefore more accurate results, the problems arise when we throw another ingredient into the mix. Many automobile manufacturers have upgraded their 2008 lines to be more fuel-efficient as a response to increased gas prices over the past two years. Unfortunately, on paper, these vehicles now appear to be less fuel fuel-efficient than their predecessors. Without an understanding of the new testing system, comparing one's older model to a new 2008 could suggest you're better off keeping the car or pick uppickup truck you have. Chances are, you're not. Even the "non-green" models (models that still operate solely on unleaded gasoline without the assistance of an electrical power source) are becoming increasingly economical.

For example, the popular 2008 Isuzu Ascender advertises a fuel economy of 14 miles per hour gallon in the city and 20 on the highway. At first glance, that might seem lower than the ratings you're used to seeing. In reality, it's right in line with other 2008 midsize SUVs in the Ascender's class; the Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer, GMC Envoy, and Chevy Trailblazer all share the same rating. The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Hummer H3 both rate slightly lower than the Ascender under the new, more accurate tests. Although the numbers will say that this year's Ascender get fewer miles per gallon than last year's, that's not true. The 2008 4.2-liter, six-cylinder engine has actually been recalibrated for efficiency and according to Consumer Guide, accelerated to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds.
The moral of the story? Comparing '08 models to previous years won't tell you much in terms of fuel economy, so stick to comparisons between the newest models to gauge if the SUV or car you've got your eye on stands up to others in its class.

Source: http://www.reprint-content.com/Article/Fuel-Economy---What-You-Should-Know-if-You-re-in-the-Market-for-a-New-Vehicle/149482

Consumer Guide Automotive Gives Isuzu Better than Average Ratings Posted By : Roberto Bell

2008-02-19T11:05:00.001-08:00

In an article published January 26, 2008 (? Today is the 21st?), Consumer Guide Auto rated several SUVs on various features and ranked the 2008 Isuzu Ascender better than the class average in four separate categories: Acceleration, Fuel Economy, Controls, and Cargo Room.

ChrisThe September 7, 2007 review of the 2008 Isuzu Ascender by staff at Cars-dot-com praised the mid-size SUV for its standard side-impact airbags, body on frame construction, and rack-and-pinion steering. U.S. News & World Report noted, "The 2008 Isuzu Ascender base model comes with manual driver and front passenger seats, height-adjustable front headrests, a second row folding bench seat, power windows and door locks, a tilt steering column, air conditioning with CFC-free refrigerant, manual dual-zone climate control with rear switch, and an AM/FM stereo and CD player with six speakers. Buyers who choose the Preferred Equipment Package also get an 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, remote keyless entry, cruise control, and a cargo cover, among other conveniences."

Editors for Kelley Blue Book wrote this about the 2008 Isuzu Ascender, "Have you been itching to get a new GMC Envoy or Chevrolet TrailBlazer, but you're waiting for some big event to ensure you get the most bang for your buck? We're going to let you in on a little secret: The deal you've been waiting for is at this very moment sitting at the Isuzu dealership. It's the 2008 Ascender, a carbon copy of the GMC and Chevrolet twins, with a nearly-identicalnearly identical price tag but with an additional two years added to the powertrain warranty (seven-years/75,000 miles vs. five-years/100,000 miles). The Ascender is not available with a V8 engine, but it has the same suspension, same interior features and same seating capacity as the GMC and Chevrolet offerings. How can you go wrong?"

Kelley Blue Book isn't the only one to notice the superior warranty of the Isuzu Ascender. In a report comparing the top 25 mid-size SUVs, U.S. News & World Report pointed out that the Ascender has an "excellent warranty compared to competitors." And we're hard pressed to find an SUV that can prove otherwise. Even the popular 2008 Honda Pilot only offers a powertrain warranty for five years or 60,000 miles. The Isuzu Ascender's powertrain warranty is good for seven years or 75,000 miles.
In addition to the superior powertrain warranty, the 2008 Isuzu Ascender also offers a 3-year/50,000-Mile Basic Limited Warranty with no deductible, a 6-Year/100,000-Mile Corrosion Limited Warranty, and a 7-Year/100,000-Mile Roadside Assistance package.
No other SUV offers that combination of warranties to its customers.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2008 Ascender five out of five stars for front- and back-seat occupant safety in side-impact crashes. The excellent rating can be attributed to the head-curtain, side-impact airbags that now come standard in the SUV.
While above-average ratings from entities like the NHTSA and U.S. News & World Report are certainly something to be proud of, Isuzu is most proud of the above-average ratings it receives from the folks who drive it. With exceptional safety and performance features, considerable cargo and passenger space, and available luxury packages and accessories, the Isuzu is easy to customize for individual drivers and their needs.

Source: http://www.reprint-content.com/Article/Consumer-Guide-Automotive-Gives-Isuzu-Better-than-Average-Ratings/149474

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