If your automotive air conditioner isn’t working quite right, here are a few ideas to begin. First of all start with the control panel on your dashboard. Most automobiles have an A/C button that actually turns the compressor on and allows cold air to be circulated. You might have accidentally hit the recirculation button instead of the A/C button. (Don’t laugh, I had a friend that spent a week in a hot car and all he needed to do was press the right button.) The second thing to check is the actual function of the controls. Do they move at all? Are they loose and giggle around? The big question is “do they feel different from the last time your air conditioner worked?” This could tell if the controls are messed up and need replacing. Your air conditioner system may be fine but the controls could be frozen or broken. If your controls seem to be functioning, lets move to the blower fan. Turn on your car and start you’re air conditioner as you normally would. Then turn your blower to it’s highest setting. Can you here your fan blowing? If you can hear it, does it sound weak or whining.
This could signal that your blower motor is malfunctioning or needs to be replaced. If it doesn’t work at all, check the fuse for the blower motor. The fuse for your blower motor should be located in the fuse box under the dash. Most automobiles have the fuses clearly labeled. First take out the blower fan fuse with the removal tool provided in the fuse box. A blown fuse should be easy to identify. However if you are unsure, replace it with a similar rated fuse and try your blower again. If that fuse blows you may have a bad blower motor or a short in the circuit. In this case, you will need an authorized mechanic to fix it.
If the blower fan is working properly and you can only get cold air out of the defroster vents, you may have vacuum-system supply line problem. To check for this, look for a small black plastic tube going from the engine area through the dash. It is usually right by the refrigerant lines. Check this tube and see if it has holes or is not connected. If all of these little tips are not helping and you’re A/C doesn’t blow cold air no matter how many switches you turn on or off, you will probably need an certified mechanic. Good luck and stay cool!
About the Author:
Jason is the webmaster for Red Hill Supply - Online Air Tools Automotive Air Conditioning Tools, Refrigerant Leak Detectors, and More - Red Hill Supply (source:motorpoint)
Monday, April 6, 2009
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Used Car Buying Tips the Experts Use
When it comes to buying a used car, you should not only bring in outside, professional expertise, but make a professional out of yourself, too.
By combining a physical inspection from a licensed mechanic (which you should always try to do), with the information directly available to you as a consumer, such as vehicle history reports, you can empower yourself with the knowledge and confidence you need to make the best decision possible.
No one will dispute that fact that uncertainty is the most prominent and unwelcome part of the used car-buying process. Since the first Model T rolled off the line, people have been fixing and selling vehicles without disclosing their full, and sometimes checkered, pasts. And, be it your first or 14th used car purchase, the questions always loom: Am I buying a problem vehicle? Has it been in an accident? How do I know this isn’t a lemon?
In this information age, you can arm yourself with the same information and techniques professionals use to answer these questions, and make an educated and confident used car purchase. These techniques include:
1.) Pedals and Steering: Examine the pedals for wear. While the paint and interior are often updated to make a car appear less worn, sellers rarely replace pedals. Also, with the engine off, jiggle the steering wheel back and forth. There should be less than 1 inch of play and no clunking noises. If there are, the car may need a steering gearbox, rack or other front suspension repair such as tie rod ends.
2.) Frame Damage: Never buy a frame-damaged car. Check the radiator core support, which connects the front fenders and holds the top of the radiator and includes the hood latch. It should be bolted, not welded on either side. Inspect the bolt heads at the top of the fenders inside the hood; scratch marks indicate that the fenders have been replaced or realigned after a crash.
Uneven tire wear is another indication of possible frame damage. When cars are involved in a major collision and frame damage occurs, the frame often remains slightly off keel and the tires will show this hidden problem.
3.) Paint: Carefully check the paint job, taking note of any rust spots, dents or scratches. Look at the sides of the car from end-on for waviness, which indicates paint work. Run your finger along the edges of the joints between panels; roughness indicates residue left from masking tape, uneven gaps between door, hood, and trunk panels and their openings indicate possibility of a major repair. Consider bringing a small magnet with you. If the body of the car is steel, then a failure of the magnet to stick can indicate the extensive use of body compound to conduct a repair. When using this trick however, keep in mind that many newer models use fiberglass for certain body panels.
4.) Fluids: Remove the oil filler cap. Check for signs of thick, dark sludge, which may indicate the vehicle didn’t receive frequent oil changes. Look at the condition of the coolant in the overflow tank; filthy brown coolant means a rusted cooling system and possibly a leaky head gasket. Pull the transmission dipstick; the fluid should be pink or red. An old car may have dark transmission fluid, but the oil should not look or smell burnt. Check underneath the vehicle for fluid leaks.
5.) Vehicle History Report: Beyond your own firsthand detective work, checking a car’s vehicle history is one of the most important things you can do before making a purchase. Vehicle history reports like Experian’s AutoCheck (www.autocheck.com) pull data from various sources, including state department of motor vehicle records, auto auctions and dealers.
AutoCheck now features the AutoCheck Score, which assigns each vehicle a numeric score based on that vehicle’s specific history. In much the same way as a credit score distills large amounts of information into a simple, easy-to-understand numeric score, this first-ever vehicle score makes it easier to understand the vehicle’s full history and compare that car against the average score of similar vehicles.
Vehicle history reports factor in reported events such as title and registration information, accident, auction data, the vehicle’s emission history, whether it’s ever been repossessed or stolen, whether the vehicle has ever been a government car, police car or taxi and whether it’s ever been leased. The AutoCheck Score does the analysis for you, helping you easily understand what a vehicle history report really says about that used car.
Becoming a savvier car buyer will not only allow you to make a better investment, but it can also protect you and your family from an unsafe vehicle. Gone are the days of simply kicking tires and staring blankly under the hood. With a little
research and some careful inspection, you can steer clear of problem used vehicles. (source : carjunky)
By combining a physical inspection from a licensed mechanic (which you should always try to do), with the information directly available to you as a consumer, such as vehicle history reports, you can empower yourself with the knowledge and confidence you need to make the best decision possible.
No one will dispute that fact that uncertainty is the most prominent and unwelcome part of the used car-buying process. Since the first Model T rolled off the line, people have been fixing and selling vehicles without disclosing their full, and sometimes checkered, pasts. And, be it your first or 14th used car purchase, the questions always loom: Am I buying a problem vehicle? Has it been in an accident? How do I know this isn’t a lemon?
In this information age, you can arm yourself with the same information and techniques professionals use to answer these questions, and make an educated and confident used car purchase. These techniques include:
1.) Pedals and Steering: Examine the pedals for wear. While the paint and interior are often updated to make a car appear less worn, sellers rarely replace pedals. Also, with the engine off, jiggle the steering wheel back and forth. There should be less than 1 inch of play and no clunking noises. If there are, the car may need a steering gearbox, rack or other front suspension repair such as tie rod ends.
2.) Frame Damage: Never buy a frame-damaged car. Check the radiator core support, which connects the front fenders and holds the top of the radiator and includes the hood latch. It should be bolted, not welded on either side. Inspect the bolt heads at the top of the fenders inside the hood; scratch marks indicate that the fenders have been replaced or realigned after a crash.
Uneven tire wear is another indication of possible frame damage. When cars are involved in a major collision and frame damage occurs, the frame often remains slightly off keel and the tires will show this hidden problem.
3.) Paint: Carefully check the paint job, taking note of any rust spots, dents or scratches. Look at the sides of the car from end-on for waviness, which indicates paint work. Run your finger along the edges of the joints between panels; roughness indicates residue left from masking tape, uneven gaps between door, hood, and trunk panels and their openings indicate possibility of a major repair. Consider bringing a small magnet with you. If the body of the car is steel, then a failure of the magnet to stick can indicate the extensive use of body compound to conduct a repair. When using this trick however, keep in mind that many newer models use fiberglass for certain body panels.
4.) Fluids: Remove the oil filler cap. Check for signs of thick, dark sludge, which may indicate the vehicle didn’t receive frequent oil changes. Look at the condition of the coolant in the overflow tank; filthy brown coolant means a rusted cooling system and possibly a leaky head gasket. Pull the transmission dipstick; the fluid should be pink or red. An old car may have dark transmission fluid, but the oil should not look or smell burnt. Check underneath the vehicle for fluid leaks.
5.) Vehicle History Report: Beyond your own firsthand detective work, checking a car’s vehicle history is one of the most important things you can do before making a purchase. Vehicle history reports like Experian’s AutoCheck (www.autocheck.com) pull data from various sources, including state department of motor vehicle records, auto auctions and dealers.
AutoCheck now features the AutoCheck Score, which assigns each vehicle a numeric score based on that vehicle’s specific history. In much the same way as a credit score distills large amounts of information into a simple, easy-to-understand numeric score, this first-ever vehicle score makes it easier to understand the vehicle’s full history and compare that car against the average score of similar vehicles.
Vehicle history reports factor in reported events such as title and registration information, accident, auction data, the vehicle’s emission history, whether it’s ever been repossessed or stolen, whether the vehicle has ever been a government car, police car or taxi and whether it’s ever been leased. The AutoCheck Score does the analysis for you, helping you easily understand what a vehicle history report really says about that used car.
Becoming a savvier car buyer will not only allow you to make a better investment, but it can also protect you and your family from an unsafe vehicle. Gone are the days of simply kicking tires and staring blankly under the hood. With a little
research and some careful inspection, you can steer clear of problem used vehicles. (source : carjunky)
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Think Your Car is Safe from Thieves? Think Again
(ARA) - Every time you park your car, you're taking a risk.
Just ask David J. of Stanford, Conn., whose 1998 high-performance Acura Integra Type R was stolen right under his nose just one month after he installed a top-of-the-line security system for $1,500.
Mother's Day is a long-held tradition of revering the woman who gives the gift of life.
"Mothering Sunday" is another early Mother's Day tradition that has shaped the way we celebrate our mothers today. This English holiday dates back to the 1600s, and involved young servants who pampered their mothers with fine delicacies. While we continue to celebrate the mother figure in modern America, it is most often with traditional gifts of flowers and cards. But if Mother's Day is indeed about the most personal sentiment and respect for a mother, a gift of gratitude should warm their hearts forever.
Car was tyre tracks in the newly fallen snow.
"They found it three weeks later, stripped clean," he added.
David's experience is not unusual, says James Cooper, CEO of Ultimate Security Systems Corporation of Irvine, Calif. Despite manufacturers'' claims to the contrary, most security systems are easy to overpower and hardly even slow down a professional thief, said Cooper, whose firm created and markets the PowerLock anti-theft system.
Every 25 seconds
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (www.nicb.org) reports that 1.1 million vehicles are stolen nationwide each year. That's one vehicle every 25 seconds in what has become a $7.5 billion-a-year-industry, according to the Insurance Information Institute (www.iii.org), a trade organization. It's an industry, moreover, dominated by organized auto-theft rings that steal cars to fill contract orders. And no wonder: A $20,000 stolen vehicle can be stripped and sold into $30,000 worth of parts, insurers say.
Your car doesn't have to be a high-performance vehicle like David J's to be an attractive target for a thief with a list of parts, or with orders for a particular make and model of a car. Different models of the popular Toyota Camry and Honda Accord swept eight of the top 10 list of cars reported stolen in 2000, according to an annual study conducted by CCC Information Services Inc., a Chicago-based supplier of software and communications systems to auto insurers. Chevrolet and Ford pickups captured the other two slots.
Brett Ploumen didn't have a security system on his 1992 Chevrolet Astrovan. But he thought he was taking appropriate precautions by parking in well-lighted, high-traffic areas and locking his vehicle's doors and windows.
Ploumen found out differently when he went to dinner with friends at a busy neighborhood strip mall in Santa Ana, Calif. "When we returned, the Astrovan wasn't there. There was broken glass on the ground and another vehicle in the parking place," Ploumen recalled.
"Three days later they found it, wrapped in a tarp on a side street," he said. The entire front end of the car was gone - it had essentially been turned into a trailer, and a beat-up trailer at that. When he saw it, "I was sick to my stomach instantly," Ploumen said.
Some popular devices
Cooper describes some of the most popular auto security devices, and the drawbacks that allow thieves to get around them:
1. Bar or wheel locks: Steering wheel bars lock up the steering wheel; wheel locks prevent the theft of wheels and tires.
How to get around them: All it takes is a pair of bolt cutters or a hacksaw. "They saw through the steering wheel, slide off the bar lock and hot-wire the car. It takes anywhere from 15-30 seconds," Cooper said.
2. Audible alarms: Known in the industry as "nuisance alarms," these alerts are intended to scare thieves away.
How to get around them: Audible alarms are almost universally ignored. Additionally, a professional thief can cut a wire and silence the alarm in seconds.
3. Pedal locks: This device locks the brakes.
How to get around them: They can be bridged or cut in 15-60 seconds.
4. Electronic immobilizing devices: These devices are designed to disconnect all power from the starter, preventing thieves from bypassing the ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle. They can be installed at the factory or purchased as an aftermarket item.
How to get around them: Seasoned thieves dismantle these systems or wire around them in seconds, usually by cutting two wires. Additionally, thieves easily find override or valet switches used by owners to disarm the systems.
5. Tracking systems: These devices transmit a radio signal to locate the car.
How to get around them: Tracking devices can be removed at a chop shop before a theft is reported. Or the car can be stripped and dumped before the owner finds out it's been stolen.
6. Solenoid immobilizer systems: Although categorized as an immobilizer, this kind of system is based on a different principle than most electronic security systems. PowerLock is one example. It attaches permanently to the vehicle's starter motor, where it effectively prevents hot-wiring. Once installed, such a system is impossible to remove, bypass or disable.
How to get around them: It can't be hot-wired, says Cooper. "A system like this is virtually impossible to circumvent," he says. The only way to steal a car protected by such a system is to tow it away.
Personal Security
Cooper also warns consumers to be aware of the capacity of their security system. "A lot of so-called security systems consist of remote entry and flashing lights. A lot of people think of that as automobile security, and it really isn't: It's a convenience feature. Some manufacturers are beginning to recognize that, and label it as ''personal security.''"
After his nightmare experience, Ploumen is an evangelist for adding a security system to your car. "Look into some kind of aftermarket security system," he advises consumers. "Find something you feel comfortable with - and that's proven."
Ploumen has researched the security field thoroughly since his van was stolen. He briefly considered a brake lock, but decided it wasn't practical. He chose Ultimate Security Systems'' Powerlock after a friend told him about it.
David J. also purchased a Powerlock system after replacing his Acura Integra Type R. "I came across it on the Internet. It was not expensive, so I thought, ''Why not give it a try?''" He added three additional layers of security with brake and pedal locks, plus a tracking system.
David became a would-be victim again a few months later. This time, though, his story has a happy ending. The thieves pried the door open with a "Slim Jim," bent the clutch pedal sideways to circumvent the AutoLock, then broke the ignition switch in an attempt to hot wire the car. When PowerLock circumvented that effort, they tried rolling the car down a nearby hill to pop the clutch. That didn't work, either, so they abandoned the car. The tracking system helped authorities recover the car a short time later.
For more information, contact USSC, 17173 Gillette Avenue, Suite 5, Irvine, Calif. 92614; (800) 231-7131, or visit www.powerlock.com.
About The Author
Courtesy ARA Content, www.ARAcontent.com; e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com
EDITOR'S NOTE: For more information, contact Emily Curci, Hilary Kaye Associates, (714) 426-0444, ecurci@hkamarcom.com.(source: motorpoint)
Just ask David J. of Stanford, Conn., whose 1998 high-performance Acura Integra Type R was stolen right under his nose just one month after he installed a top-of-the-line security system for $1,500.
Mother's Day is a long-held tradition of revering the woman who gives the gift of life.
"Mothering Sunday" is another early Mother's Day tradition that has shaped the way we celebrate our mothers today. This English holiday dates back to the 1600s, and involved young servants who pampered their mothers with fine delicacies. While we continue to celebrate the mother figure in modern America, it is most often with traditional gifts of flowers and cards. But if Mother's Day is indeed about the most personal sentiment and respect for a mother, a gift of gratitude should warm their hearts forever.
Car was tyre tracks in the newly fallen snow.
"They found it three weeks later, stripped clean," he added.
David's experience is not unusual, says James Cooper, CEO of Ultimate Security Systems Corporation of Irvine, Calif. Despite manufacturers'' claims to the contrary, most security systems are easy to overpower and hardly even slow down a professional thief, said Cooper, whose firm created and markets the PowerLock anti-theft system.
Every 25 seconds
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (www.nicb.org) reports that 1.1 million vehicles are stolen nationwide each year. That's one vehicle every 25 seconds in what has become a $7.5 billion-a-year-industry, according to the Insurance Information Institute (www.iii.org), a trade organization. It's an industry, moreover, dominated by organized auto-theft rings that steal cars to fill contract orders. And no wonder: A $20,000 stolen vehicle can be stripped and sold into $30,000 worth of parts, insurers say.
Your car doesn't have to be a high-performance vehicle like David J's to be an attractive target for a thief with a list of parts, or with orders for a particular make and model of a car. Different models of the popular Toyota Camry and Honda Accord swept eight of the top 10 list of cars reported stolen in 2000, according to an annual study conducted by CCC Information Services Inc., a Chicago-based supplier of software and communications systems to auto insurers. Chevrolet and Ford pickups captured the other two slots.
Brett Ploumen didn't have a security system on his 1992 Chevrolet Astrovan. But he thought he was taking appropriate precautions by parking in well-lighted, high-traffic areas and locking his vehicle's doors and windows.
Ploumen found out differently when he went to dinner with friends at a busy neighborhood strip mall in Santa Ana, Calif. "When we returned, the Astrovan wasn't there. There was broken glass on the ground and another vehicle in the parking place," Ploumen recalled.
"Three days later they found it, wrapped in a tarp on a side street," he said. The entire front end of the car was gone - it had essentially been turned into a trailer, and a beat-up trailer at that. When he saw it, "I was sick to my stomach instantly," Ploumen said.
Some popular devices
Cooper describes some of the most popular auto security devices, and the drawbacks that allow thieves to get around them:
1. Bar or wheel locks: Steering wheel bars lock up the steering wheel; wheel locks prevent the theft of wheels and tires.
How to get around them: All it takes is a pair of bolt cutters or a hacksaw. "They saw through the steering wheel, slide off the bar lock and hot-wire the car. It takes anywhere from 15-30 seconds," Cooper said.
2. Audible alarms: Known in the industry as "nuisance alarms," these alerts are intended to scare thieves away.
How to get around them: Audible alarms are almost universally ignored. Additionally, a professional thief can cut a wire and silence the alarm in seconds.
3. Pedal locks: This device locks the brakes.
How to get around them: They can be bridged or cut in 15-60 seconds.
4. Electronic immobilizing devices: These devices are designed to disconnect all power from the starter, preventing thieves from bypassing the ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle. They can be installed at the factory or purchased as an aftermarket item.
How to get around them: Seasoned thieves dismantle these systems or wire around them in seconds, usually by cutting two wires. Additionally, thieves easily find override or valet switches used by owners to disarm the systems.
5. Tracking systems: These devices transmit a radio signal to locate the car.
How to get around them: Tracking devices can be removed at a chop shop before a theft is reported. Or the car can be stripped and dumped before the owner finds out it's been stolen.
6. Solenoid immobilizer systems: Although categorized as an immobilizer, this kind of system is based on a different principle than most electronic security systems. PowerLock is one example. It attaches permanently to the vehicle's starter motor, where it effectively prevents hot-wiring. Once installed, such a system is impossible to remove, bypass or disable.
How to get around them: It can't be hot-wired, says Cooper. "A system like this is virtually impossible to circumvent," he says. The only way to steal a car protected by such a system is to tow it away.
Personal Security
Cooper also warns consumers to be aware of the capacity of their security system. "A lot of so-called security systems consist of remote entry and flashing lights. A lot of people think of that as automobile security, and it really isn't: It's a convenience feature. Some manufacturers are beginning to recognize that, and label it as ''personal security.''"
After his nightmare experience, Ploumen is an evangelist for adding a security system to your car. "Look into some kind of aftermarket security system," he advises consumers. "Find something you feel comfortable with - and that's proven."
Ploumen has researched the security field thoroughly since his van was stolen. He briefly considered a brake lock, but decided it wasn't practical. He chose Ultimate Security Systems'' Powerlock after a friend told him about it.
David J. also purchased a Powerlock system after replacing his Acura Integra Type R. "I came across it on the Internet. It was not expensive, so I thought, ''Why not give it a try?''" He added three additional layers of security with brake and pedal locks, plus a tracking system.
David became a would-be victim again a few months later. This time, though, his story has a happy ending. The thieves pried the door open with a "Slim Jim," bent the clutch pedal sideways to circumvent the AutoLock, then broke the ignition switch in an attempt to hot wire the car. When PowerLock circumvented that effort, they tried rolling the car down a nearby hill to pop the clutch. That didn't work, either, so they abandoned the car. The tracking system helped authorities recover the car a short time later.
For more information, contact USSC, 17173 Gillette Avenue, Suite 5, Irvine, Calif. 92614; (800) 231-7131, or visit www.powerlock.com.
About The Author
Courtesy ARA Content, www.ARAcontent.com; e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com
EDITOR'S NOTE: For more information, contact Emily Curci, Hilary Kaye Associates, (714) 426-0444, ecurci@hkamarcom.com.(source: motorpoint)
Monday, March 30, 2009
Is It Best To Repair Or Replace Your Car?
Is it best to repair or replace your car? That's a good question in this economy and here are some helpful tips to make your decision a little easier for you.
(NAPSI)-A growing number of people are finding that the economy has them debating whether it's best to buy a new car or repair the one they have. If you are trying to decide between buying and repairing, here are some tips that may help:
Comparing Costs
It is typically less expensive in the long run to repair the vehicle you already own rather than purchasing a newer one. Financing even a $2,000 repair typically means lower payments (or similar payments for a shorter time) than those incurred when purchasing a newer vehicle.
The 50-Percent Rule
After receiving the estimate of a major repair, consider the "50-percent rule." When the cost of a needed repair approaches 50 percent of the vehicle's value, it is time to seriously consider replacing it.
Reliability And Maintenance History
The best way to know a vehicle's condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop. If a repair shop knows the service history of a vehicle, consumers can look to its technicians for guidance on when their vehicle likely will need major repairs.
"Following the vehicle manufacturer's maintenance recommendations can greatly increase the life span of vehicle," said John Nielsen, director of AAA Approved Auto Repair and Auto Buying.
Cosmetics
The cosmetic condition of a vehicle can greatly affect its value and a motorist's desire to hold on to it. Motorists should take a critical look at their vehicle for signs of wear and tear and evaluate how important their vehicle's cosmetics are to them.
Lifestyle
Changes in lifestyle can be a large factor in changing vehicles. Family size, commute length, recreational usage and business needs are all legitimate reasons to consider purchasing a newer vehicle that is better suited to a consumer's driving routine.
Outside Factors
Several outside factors may impact the decision between repairing and replacing a vehicle, such as reduced pricing and special offers from manufacturers. A vehicle that could become a valuable classic might be worthy of extraordinary repairs and maintenance.
If you decide to go with a major repair, be sure to use a qualified and trustworthy auto repair facility. A listing of AAA Approved Auto Repair shops is available at AAA.com/repair.
Experts say the best way to know a vehicle's condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop.(source:carjunky)
(NAPSI)-A growing number of people are finding that the economy has them debating whether it's best to buy a new car or repair the one they have. If you are trying to decide between buying and repairing, here are some tips that may help:
Comparing Costs
It is typically less expensive in the long run to repair the vehicle you already own rather than purchasing a newer one. Financing even a $2,000 repair typically means lower payments (or similar payments for a shorter time) than those incurred when purchasing a newer vehicle.
The 50-Percent Rule
After receiving the estimate of a major repair, consider the "50-percent rule." When the cost of a needed repair approaches 50 percent of the vehicle's value, it is time to seriously consider replacing it.
Reliability And Maintenance History
The best way to know a vehicle's condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop. If a repair shop knows the service history of a vehicle, consumers can look to its technicians for guidance on when their vehicle likely will need major repairs.
"Following the vehicle manufacturer's maintenance recommendations can greatly increase the life span of vehicle," said John Nielsen, director of AAA Approved Auto Repair and Auto Buying.
Cosmetics
The cosmetic condition of a vehicle can greatly affect its value and a motorist's desire to hold on to it. Motorists should take a critical look at their vehicle for signs of wear and tear and evaluate how important their vehicle's cosmetics are to them.
Lifestyle
Changes in lifestyle can be a large factor in changing vehicles. Family size, commute length, recreational usage and business needs are all legitimate reasons to consider purchasing a newer vehicle that is better suited to a consumer's driving routine.
Outside Factors
Several outside factors may impact the decision between repairing and replacing a vehicle, such as reduced pricing and special offers from manufacturers. A vehicle that could become a valuable classic might be worthy of extraordinary repairs and maintenance.
If you decide to go with a major repair, be sure to use a qualified and trustworthy auto repair facility. A listing of AAA Approved Auto Repair shops is available at AAA.com/repair.
Experts say the best way to know a vehicle's condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop.(source:carjunky)
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Tips For Extending The Life Of Your Car
You are what you eat, just like you are what you drive. Take a minute to think about how you treat your body. What you eat and how you maintain it can affect the way you feel. Automotive expert, Ron Ananian, known as "The Car Doctor," says you should apply the same mindset to how you treat your car. Many factors can affect your car's lifespan and by understanding its basic functions, you can help to keep it in top shape. Ananian has compiled the following ten tips to help you extend the life of your car:
1. Fuel provides the food, or energy, for your car. If you were to eat a diet filled with fatty foods, you would build up blockage in your arteries. Your car works in much the same way. If you were to only fill it with unbranded fuel, you car's valves, similar to your arteries, could begin to show deposit buildup. Much like eating healthy food can keep your body running well, continuous use of a cleaner-burning gasoline with enhanced cleaning power like Amoco Ultimate® at BP, can restore performance in cars with engine deposits and keep new car engines running clean. This can result in faster acceleration and reduced fuel consumption.
2. Air filters act like lungs which provide oxygen to the engine. Filters prevent harmful particles such as dust and dirt from reaching the engine. When bad air is absorbed into the engine it can cause irreversible damages, so change your air filters regularly.
3. Oil is like the blood that flows through the veins bringing nutrients to the body, helping it to perform better and last longer. Using a synthetic motor oil, like Castrol Syntec®, can provide superior protection against the formation of power rubbing deposits and will help prevent corrosive particles such as acid, soot and oxidized fuel fragments from causing costly damage to critical engine parts. Don't wait for the warning light to appear on your dash. Change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (or whatever your owner's manual recommends).
4. Well-maintained tires, like healthy feet, are critical. Take a close look at your tires and make sure the tread is still raised and the tires haven't "balded" or worn down. Check the air pressure on all four tires monthly to ensure that they are properly inflated, giving you balanced performance and reducing the chance for flats.
5. Brakes serve as the conscience of your car and help to stop you before you encounter sticky situations. Keeping the brake pads clean will prevent wear and tear leading to quicker stops. If you experience grinding or loud squealing when pressing on the brake, replace the pads. If they get too worn down it can cause damage to other parts of the car, including the wheels and routers.
6. The battery is the nervous system of the car, giving the engine its starting boost while keeping the car's electrical system strong. A battery has an average lifespan of three to five years. Periodically inspect for corrosion or leaking fluid which can lead to battery failure.
7. Fluids are necessary for a car's survival, just like water is to the human body. Check your coolant, radiator fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid and brake fluid so that your car can stay hydrated and operate at its full potential. Some of these fluids may require a professional mechanic to change them properly, so be sure to inquire about them when you bring your car in for a checkup.
8. Wiper blades are like your eyelashes, they help keep debris out of your view and provide you with clear vision. If your wiper blades are leaving streaks, cracking or making noise, replace them. Also, if you plan to drive in ice or snow, you may want to consider winter blades.
9. Regular tune-ups are just as important to your car as regular visits to the doctor are for you. Even if your car seems fine, take it in for periodic maintenance to make sure everything is running in order. Find a trustworthy mechanic who will listen to your questions and explain what is done to your car. An AAA or ASA chapter may be able to point you to a reliable mechanic.
10. The body of the car is much like your skin. Unsightly bumps and scrapes can show up on a car just like they do on their drivers. To keep your car looking its best, try to avoid tight squeezes and parking in spots too close for comfort. Inspect your car regularly and take note of the cars around you. Washing and waxing your car will also help keep the exterior shiny and free from corrosion.
Next time you get into your car and start the engine, take a moment to pause, listen and look. See if you feel any abnormal vibrations or inconsistencies in the start up process. Listen for any irregular noises which could lead to bigger problems. Finally, check your gauges to make sure all your fluids are filled and no warning lights are illuminated. If anything seems slightly off, you might want to take your car in for a checkup.(source : carjunky)
Taking Care Of Your Tyres
Proper Tyre Maintenance for Greener, Safer Driving
(ARA) - Driving on properly inflated tires maximizes fuel efficiency, decreases toxic emissions and contributes to a cleaner, healthier environment.
When was the last time you checked the pressure in your tires?
Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential not only for the safety and performance of a vehicle, but also for decreasing fuel consumption and extending tire life. Following in the footsteps of airbags and seat belts, tire pressure monitoring is the latest safety feature within the automotive industry.
According to experts at Goodyear, under-inflated tyres reduce fuel efficiency by approximately one percent for every three pounds of under-inflation. And the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that an estimated 30 percent of cars and light trucks are driven with one or more significantly under-inflated tires.
If everyone in the United States drove on properly inflated tyres, more than 2 million gallons of gasoline could be saved each day. That is more than 703 million gallons of gasoline a year.
"Most people assume that having their car serviced regularly ensures that their tyres are properly maintained. Unfortunately, this isn't the case," says Susan Mader, corporate communications manager for SmarTire Systems Inc. "All tires lose air over time. Most newer cars require servicing only once or twice a year, so tyres can become dangerously under-inflated without the driver even realizing there's a problem.
In addition to the increased fuel consumption and tyre wear, long intervals of driving with low tyre pressure can cause additional flexing and stress on the sidewalls, resulting in increased temperature that can lead to tire failure. Tires with low pressure also degrade the vehicle's handling and performance and lower the vehicle's load-carrying ability. In a worst-case scenario, under-inflation can lead to a catastrophic blowout or tread separation.
Is there a product available that provides worry-free tire monitoring?
Tire monitoring systems offer the easiest, most reliable way to continuously monitor tyre pressure. SmarTire Systems Inc. offers a full line of tyre monitoring solutions designed to increase safety, decrease fuel consumption and improve vehicle performance.
With a SmarTire system installed in the vehicle, drivers can monitor tire pressure from the convenience of the driver's seat to ensure that their tyres are properly inflated.
SmarTire products offer motorists peace of mind by continuously monitoring both tire pressure and temperature. Using a lightweight sensor installed inside each wheel, real-time information is sent via wireless signal to a dash-mounted display. If any problems occur, an audible and visual warning instantly alerts the driver. This early awareness often makes the difference, allowing time for the vehicle to be driven to a service station for tyre repair or inflation.
"SmarTire products have saved me time, money and aggravation," says SmarTire customer Rafael Gracia of San Antonio, Texas. "After installing a SmarTire system, I received a warning that there was a problem, providing me sufficient time to get to a repair shop. The SmarTire system ensured that I wasn't left stranded, having to call a tow truck and spend hours dealing with the situation. In fact, I am so impressed with the product that I plan to install a system on my wife's vehicle to ensure her added safety and convenience."
For environmentally responsible drivers who want to maintain vehicle tires easily and effortlessly, the SmarTire system is the logical choice.
SmarTire's monitoring products for passenger cars and light trucks are distributed through Big O Tires (www.bigotires.com) and The Tire Rack (www.tirerack.com). For further information on SmarTire products, visit www.smartire.com or call (888) 982-3001. (source: motorpoint)
(ARA) - Driving on properly inflated tires maximizes fuel efficiency, decreases toxic emissions and contributes to a cleaner, healthier environment.
When was the last time you checked the pressure in your tires?
Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential not only for the safety and performance of a vehicle, but also for decreasing fuel consumption and extending tire life. Following in the footsteps of airbags and seat belts, tire pressure monitoring is the latest safety feature within the automotive industry.
According to experts at Goodyear, under-inflated tyres reduce fuel efficiency by approximately one percent for every three pounds of under-inflation. And the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that an estimated 30 percent of cars and light trucks are driven with one or more significantly under-inflated tires.
If everyone in the United States drove on properly inflated tyres, more than 2 million gallons of gasoline could be saved each day. That is more than 703 million gallons of gasoline a year.
"Most people assume that having their car serviced regularly ensures that their tyres are properly maintained. Unfortunately, this isn't the case," says Susan Mader, corporate communications manager for SmarTire Systems Inc. "All tires lose air over time. Most newer cars require servicing only once or twice a year, so tyres can become dangerously under-inflated without the driver even realizing there's a problem.
In addition to the increased fuel consumption and tyre wear, long intervals of driving with low tyre pressure can cause additional flexing and stress on the sidewalls, resulting in increased temperature that can lead to tire failure. Tires with low pressure also degrade the vehicle's handling and performance and lower the vehicle's load-carrying ability. In a worst-case scenario, under-inflation can lead to a catastrophic blowout or tread separation.
Is there a product available that provides worry-free tire monitoring?
Tire monitoring systems offer the easiest, most reliable way to continuously monitor tyre pressure. SmarTire Systems Inc. offers a full line of tyre monitoring solutions designed to increase safety, decrease fuel consumption and improve vehicle performance.
With a SmarTire system installed in the vehicle, drivers can monitor tire pressure from the convenience of the driver's seat to ensure that their tyres are properly inflated.
SmarTire products offer motorists peace of mind by continuously monitoring both tire pressure and temperature. Using a lightweight sensor installed inside each wheel, real-time information is sent via wireless signal to a dash-mounted display. If any problems occur, an audible and visual warning instantly alerts the driver. This early awareness often makes the difference, allowing time for the vehicle to be driven to a service station for tyre repair or inflation.
"SmarTire products have saved me time, money and aggravation," says SmarTire customer Rafael Gracia of San Antonio, Texas. "After installing a SmarTire system, I received a warning that there was a problem, providing me sufficient time to get to a repair shop. The SmarTire system ensured that I wasn't left stranded, having to call a tow truck and spend hours dealing with the situation. In fact, I am so impressed with the product that I plan to install a system on my wife's vehicle to ensure her added safety and convenience."
For environmentally responsible drivers who want to maintain vehicle tires easily and effortlessly, the SmarTire system is the logical choice.
SmarTire's monitoring products for passenger cars and light trucks are distributed through Big O Tires (www.bigotires.com) and The Tire Rack (www.tirerack.com). For further information on SmarTire products, visit www.smartire.com or call (888) 982-3001. (source: motorpoint)
Friday, March 27, 2009
Rear wheel drive vs. front wheel drive. Which is better?
Front Wheel Drive
Around since the 1920's, front wheel drive didn't catch on with American consumers until the gas crisis in the 1970's. As Americans struggled against high fuel prices, automakers began to seek new ways to increase fuel efficiency. The best way of course was to reduce the size (and thus the weight) of most vehicles. As Detroit aimed to make cars smaller, they needed a more efficient layout that would yield more interior room in a smaller package.
Front wheel drive was the solution. By placing the engine and transaxle in the front, there is no large transmission housing or driveshaft tunnel running through the passenger compartment. In addition, engines were positioned transversely to reduce the size of the engine bay. And there was another advantage as well. With 60% of its weight at the front, 40% at the back, fwd holds an advantage in slippery conditions such as ice or snow as more weight is over the drive wheels reducing slip during acceleration. But most of the advantages end there.
As most of the weight in up front, a fwd car is not as well balanced therefore it doesn't handle quite as well. Also, as vehicles continue to become more powerful, front wheel drive becomes more of a liability. Torque steer (when the steering wheel pulls to one side during acceleration) is a serious issue with many front wheel drive cars that exceed 250hp. As such, we've seen a resurgence in the popularity of rear wheel drive in more powerful vehicles.
Rear Wheel Drive
Prior to the fuel crises in the 1970's, rear wheel drive was king. Just about every vehicle, from economy to luxury, came with rear wheel drive. The shift from rear wheel drive to front took about a decade. Since the mid eighties, just about every economy car, family sedan, minivan and even many sport coupes came with front wheel drive. Luxury marks such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz continued on with rear wheel drive but Cadillac eventually moved every vehicle to front wheel drive. Once again, times have changed.
Over the last few years we've seen more and more vehicles (re) introduce rear wheel drive. Why? Well, it simple. As cars become more powerful it is difficult to have one set of wheels doing the steering and the accelerating. By having the front wheels do the steering, and the rear wheels driving the car, you get a better-balanced vehicle. This eliminates torque steer and improves acceleration. Rear wheel drive offers better weight distribution (much closer to 50/50 than fwd), which in turn offers more predictable handling. Finally, with the advent of traction control and stability management systems, the front wheel drive advantage in slippery conditions has been significantly reduced.
More and more rwd vehicles have the option of AWD as well. If nothing else, this is a great way for automakers to hedge their bets. Still, some consumers are skeptical of rear wheel drive. Perhaps they are the victims of clever marketing by Madison Ave. that tried to get people to accept fwd and forget all about the virtues rear wheel drive. They did a great job. Perhaps too good.
Today cars are more powerful yet yield better fuel economy. As such, we can look at fwd and rwd more objectively. Is one better than the other? Fwd still holds an advantage in terms of packaging efficiency, offering greater interior room in a smaller package.
Rear wheel drive provides better handling and acceleration and with the addition of traction control, virtually eliminates the fwd advantage in the snow. In the end, it depends on what you want from your car. If it's performance, you're looking at rwd. If you're indifferent, perhaps looking for a small car with greater interior volume, it's front wheel drive for you.
Over the last 20 years, technology has improved both layouts, reducing the advantages of fwd to a point where rwd is a viable option for most people. Ultimately, you've got more choice, and when more choice is offered we all win.
(source : all-about-car-selection)
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