Tyre safety is something that everybody knows exists and is highly important yet do not check them regularly enough. There are various elements to consider such as if you have the correct amount of tread depth left across the circumference of the tyre, what the tyre pressure is, if it has any wear and tears and more. If you are ever unsure about your tyres take it straight to a garage who will give them a check over. Same with fitting new tyres it is best to have a professional make sure they are fitted properly.
Having the correct tyre pressure is imperative for various reasons. There can be serious consequences if they are over or under-inflated. If tyres are over-inflated, it will cause only the centre of the tyre to come in contact with the road. This can lead to poor vehicle handling and the tyres will wear out much quicker meaning you have to pay out and buy new tyres.
If the tyre is under-inflated the edges of the tyres will come into contact with the road and not the centre which again causes problems. You will have to provide a bigger force to make the car turn when the tyres are like this and the tyres themselves can overheat causing big problems. Having these fitted will mean you will spend more on petrol also because they have an increased amount of rolling resistance so you will need more fuel to maintain the speed.
Checking the tyre pressure regularly will be beneficial to you for you to save on money and more importantly be safe on the road. Check your vehicle handbook to find the correct tyre pressure that yours should be at. It is not always obvious that the tyres are losing air and they should be checked more during the warmer summer months as this is when they tend to lose the most amount of air. The check of this should be carried out at least once a month and if you know you will be travelling on a long journey then check before this too. Preparation is key and essential to the safety of yourself and any passengers.
Whilst checking and then enforcing that you have the correct pressure you could always carry out the 20p tread depth test too so you can be sure that it is above the legal requirement of 1.6mm across 75% of the tyre circumference.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Car Air Filter - Its Functions and Maintenance
A car cabin air filter is a very important component of your vehicle. It is a filtration device attached to the air intake of car's ventilation system. The main function of this device is to improve the quality of air penetrating inside your car as well as of the air already present inside the car. Although most of the filters are made using pleated paper system, a host of other filtration media is also present. An intelligent blend of paper and cotton is perfect for the filter. However, other models using miniature paper filters are also available.
This filter is totally different from the internal combustion filter that sits under the hood of the car and prevents the dust from getting into the car's engine to facilitate smooth functioning. Distinction between the two is very clear and having its knowledge is very important. Both of them hold an important place in your car's smooth functioning and hence you must check their quality while buying.
The cabin air filter is responsible for the kind of air you breathe in while you are sitting inside the car. Installing a high quality filter is the only option if you want to offer fresh and pure air to those who are sitting with you in your car. The green filters are the best options for the people who are more worried about the allergens. However, every air filter needs to be replaced after a period of time to ensure quality of air is maintained inside the vehicle.
There are some tips that everyone must follow to replace one of the most important component of your car. Replace your filters carefully after opening the hood and prop. Then, you will find the plastic cowling covering the filter between the engine compartment and the windshield. Remove the cowling after taking out the clips holding it. After that remove the filter for examination and if it is fully covered with dirt and dust then replace it immediately. You can go ahead with the same filter if it is neat and clean. Then, install the filter and cowling and push in the clips supporting the cowling. Finally, close the hood and enjoy your journey.
The process changes a bit if the vehicle has the CA filter. You have to open the front passenger door and then the glove compartment. Now, open the cable holding the door and swing it down. After this, remove the filter cover as well as the filter to check the presence of dirt and dust. If the filter needs replacement then replace it, otherwise, go ahead with the previous one. Now, re-install the filter and cover attaches cable to glove box door and close it.
This filter is totally different from the internal combustion filter that sits under the hood of the car and prevents the dust from getting into the car's engine to facilitate smooth functioning. Distinction between the two is very clear and having its knowledge is very important. Both of them hold an important place in your car's smooth functioning and hence you must check their quality while buying.
The cabin air filter is responsible for the kind of air you breathe in while you are sitting inside the car. Installing a high quality filter is the only option if you want to offer fresh and pure air to those who are sitting with you in your car. The green filters are the best options for the people who are more worried about the allergens. However, every air filter needs to be replaced after a period of time to ensure quality of air is maintained inside the vehicle.
There are some tips that everyone must follow to replace one of the most important component of your car. Replace your filters carefully after opening the hood and prop. Then, you will find the plastic cowling covering the filter between the engine compartment and the windshield. Remove the cowling after taking out the clips holding it. After that remove the filter for examination and if it is fully covered with dirt and dust then replace it immediately. You can go ahead with the same filter if it is neat and clean. Then, install the filter and cowling and push in the clips supporting the cowling. Finally, close the hood and enjoy your journey.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Start Getting Your Car Ready For Winter
The winter is well and truly here. The duffle coats are out, the bobble hats are bouncing and the colourful gloves are peaking out beneath sleeves. With all of the focus surrounding your wardrobe and keeping you warm, your car always seems to be neglected from the winter pampering.
To be frank, the maintenance of your car is a lot more important than the fancying up of your wardrobe. It is neither time consuming nor difficult to check over your car and is something that is now essential in British winter time.
By being thorough you will ensure yourself a more comfortable and confident journey every time you get in your car during the cold, frosty and rainy days.
Before we get onto the specifics, it's important to not over accelerate or brake hard and suddenly, this will vastly improve the running of your car and the best way to maintain your tyres.
Firstly you need to check the engine oil and filter at the very first signs of approaching winter. The cold weather has a tendency to thicken the oil in your vehicle, with this the car tends to not lubricate properly. It would also be appropriate to find out specifically which oil suits your car during this months coming up to Christmas.
It's important for you to check the battery level as your car will require more power in the winter than in the summer. All batteries will have to be full and should have a charge of around 12.4 volts at he very least. The cables have to be in excellent conditions and all the connections need to be secure.
We've already discussed fuel, but there are other fluids that will need to be obtained like the brake fluid, steering fluid and the water jets.
You will also be surprised to discover that any external damages will also be detrimental to your motor experience over winter. The cold is suggested to further corrode existing dents, this will of course end up costing you a lot more once the winter has subsided. This is something that will probably be looked into in the New Year, a time when most people are struggling with finances. To keep on top of this you should have the car polished and 'touched up' whenever possible before the cold hits.
To be frank, the maintenance of your car is a lot more important than the fancying up of your wardrobe. It is neither time consuming nor difficult to check over your car and is something that is now essential in British winter time.
By being thorough you will ensure yourself a more comfortable and confident journey every time you get in your car during the cold, frosty and rainy days.
Before we get onto the specifics, it's important to not over accelerate or brake hard and suddenly, this will vastly improve the running of your car and the best way to maintain your tyres.
Firstly you need to check the engine oil and filter at the very first signs of approaching winter. The cold weather has a tendency to thicken the oil in your vehicle, with this the car tends to not lubricate properly. It would also be appropriate to find out specifically which oil suits your car during this months coming up to Christmas.
It's important for you to check the battery level as your car will require more power in the winter than in the summer. All batteries will have to be full and should have a charge of around 12.4 volts at he very least. The cables have to be in excellent conditions and all the connections need to be secure.
We've already discussed fuel, but there are other fluids that will need to be obtained like the brake fluid, steering fluid and the water jets.
You will also be surprised to discover that any external damages will also be detrimental to your motor experience over winter. The cold is suggested to further corrode existing dents, this will of course end up costing you a lot more once the winter has subsided. This is something that will probably be looked into in the New Year, a time when most people are struggling with finances. To keep on top of this you should have the car polished and 'touched up' whenever possible before the cold hits.
Car Engine Care Tips, Maintain Reliable Performance
Among the routine aspects of car engine care are checking the engine oil level as well as the levels of transmission fluid. It is not only reliable road performance you need to consider but the essentials of maintaining the right oil level in the engine.
Driving around with low levels of engine oil can cause long term damage to the engine components, possibly leading to very expensive repairs.
To measure oil levels it is best to park the car in a level position, not on a slope, and to switch off the engine. After about 5 minutes lift the oil dipstick from the engine compartment and wipe it with a clean cloth or tissue. Place it back in the engine, remove again and make a note of the oil level, which should be at least halfway between the low and high mark points.
This is also a great time to consider whether your car engine needs an oil change. If the oil on the dipstick is black it suggests the oil contains sooty particles, which can affect engine performance. So this would be a good time to drain the old oil and add some fresh oil.
A clear, light brown coloured oil is about right and so you can go ahead with a top-up, if the level is too close to the minimum notch on the dipstick. When you add fresh engine oil slowly, give the oil a chance to settle and then check the level again before closing the oil compartment cap.
Another important aspect of car engine care is ensuring there is sufficient anti-freeze (engine coolant) which dissolves with added water and flows from the reservoir through the radiator panel, helping to stop the engine from overheating.
It is best to refer to the car owner's manual which will show you where the tank or reservoir for engine coolant is located. A key point is to allow the engine to cool down before topping up with anti-freeze because after the engine has been running the closed system carrying the coolant will be under pressure.
Also consider checking the level of engine coolant, perhaps an hour or so after you top-up, in case there is a leak. If this is not resolved there is a risk of damage due to the engine overheating. During icy, cold winter months when temperatures plummet, you may want to consider increasing the concentration of anti-freeze in the system.
Ensuring transmission fluid levels are satisfactory and topped up when necessary is another are to be aware of when carrying out regular car engine care. This is a key part of the engine as the oil is responsible for lubricating essential processes such as power transmission to the wheels and enabling smooth gear changes.
Depending on what model you have, the transmission fluid may either be checked by you using the user's manual or it is better for the authorised car dealer to carry out the procedure. If you have manual transmission, take out the dipstick with the car in neutral and engine running, checking the level and making sure it is near the "full" mark.
The fluid should be pink to clear in colour, so if you notice the fluid is darker and containing particles, you may need to change the fluid. It is best for a garage mechanic to drain the system and put in fresh fluid.
Statistics show a flat or faulty battery is one of the top reasons for calling out the car emergency breakdown services. So clearly a regular battery check is a key part of your car engine care routine.
Inspect the battery to see if there is any damage to the unit, and check if there's any corrosion at the terminals, which can lead to poor connections and even a failure to start-up.
Some simple ways to give your car battery a longer life include making sure you don't leave a light on or look out for a faulty part that may drain the battery. Taking a number of short journeys or little use of your car means the battery will be under-charged which can lead to a hardening of the lead plates, so reducing the battery's effectiveness in holding charge.
So if you do a lot of short journeys it may be an idea to invest in a battery charger and to ask your local garage mechanic to carry out a test from time to time to see if the fault is the battery or the charging system.
With all the above checks and procedures it is always im
Driving around with low levels of engine oil can cause long term damage to the engine components, possibly leading to very expensive repairs.
To measure oil levels it is best to park the car in a level position, not on a slope, and to switch off the engine. After about 5 minutes lift the oil dipstick from the engine compartment and wipe it with a clean cloth or tissue. Place it back in the engine, remove again and make a note of the oil level, which should be at least halfway between the low and high mark points.
This is also a great time to consider whether your car engine needs an oil change. If the oil on the dipstick is black it suggests the oil contains sooty particles, which can affect engine performance. So this would be a good time to drain the old oil and add some fresh oil.
A clear, light brown coloured oil is about right and so you can go ahead with a top-up, if the level is too close to the minimum notch on the dipstick. When you add fresh engine oil slowly, give the oil a chance to settle and then check the level again before closing the oil compartment cap.
Another important aspect of car engine care is ensuring there is sufficient anti-freeze (engine coolant) which dissolves with added water and flows from the reservoir through the radiator panel, helping to stop the engine from overheating.
It is best to refer to the car owner's manual which will show you where the tank or reservoir for engine coolant is located. A key point is to allow the engine to cool down before topping up with anti-freeze because after the engine has been running the closed system carrying the coolant will be under pressure.
Also consider checking the level of engine coolant, perhaps an hour or so after you top-up, in case there is a leak. If this is not resolved there is a risk of damage due to the engine overheating. During icy, cold winter months when temperatures plummet, you may want to consider increasing the concentration of anti-freeze in the system.
Ensuring transmission fluid levels are satisfactory and topped up when necessary is another are to be aware of when carrying out regular car engine care. This is a key part of the engine as the oil is responsible for lubricating essential processes such as power transmission to the wheels and enabling smooth gear changes.
Depending on what model you have, the transmission fluid may either be checked by you using the user's manual or it is better for the authorised car dealer to carry out the procedure. If you have manual transmission, take out the dipstick with the car in neutral and engine running, checking the level and making sure it is near the "full" mark.
The fluid should be pink to clear in colour, so if you notice the fluid is darker and containing particles, you may need to change the fluid. It is best for a garage mechanic to drain the system and put in fresh fluid.
Statistics show a flat or faulty battery is one of the top reasons for calling out the car emergency breakdown services. So clearly a regular battery check is a key part of your car engine care routine.
Inspect the battery to see if there is any damage to the unit, and check if there's any corrosion at the terminals, which can lead to poor connections and even a failure to start-up.
Some simple ways to give your car battery a longer life include making sure you don't leave a light on or look out for a faulty part that may drain the battery. Taking a number of short journeys or little use of your car means the battery will be under-charged which can lead to a hardening of the lead plates, so reducing the battery's effectiveness in holding charge.
So if you do a lot of short journeys it may be an idea to invest in a battery charger and to ask your local garage mechanic to carry out a test from time to time to see if the fault is the battery or the charging system.
With all the above checks and procedures it is always im
Friday, November 16, 2012
Safe Driving Tips for Wet Weather Conditions
As the summer months give way to the cold and rain of winter, our driving habits must adapt to these changes in the weather. Driving in wet weather conditions is much more dangerous than doing so on dry roads, and if driving behavior does not account for this added danger, the threat of serious accidents is magnified significantly. To ensure your safety throughout these dark and stormy winter months, there are a few important things to keep in mind while behind the wheel when the weather gets wet.
First, your overall speeds should be reduced. Slippery roads inhibit the performance of your vehicle, making it more difficult to turn, brake, or accelerate, and high speeds prevent you from being able to perform the correct maneuver in a safe amount of time. When braking, do so earlier and with less force than you would on a dry road, as wet roads increase stopping distances significantly. Not only does this allow you ample space to safely avoid a collision with whatever is in front of you, it also gives a clear indication to the drivers behind you that you are making a stop, allowing them the time needed to stop safely as well.
When turning, avoid tight, quick corning as the lack of traction can easily send your vehicle rolling onto its side. Take turns at a slower pace than you would in dry conditions, and perform a more gradual turning motion to prevent this possibility for rollovers. Sharp turns can also be an indication of a lack of focus while behind that wheel, or confusion about when or where to turn. This can be counteracted by clearly mapping out your route before setting off, and paying close attention when your next turn is approaching. Avoid any in car distractions like cell phones or touch screen navigation systems can keep to the task of driving.
Acceleration should also be performed more gradually to prevent any loss of control. Because of the slipperiness of the road, there is a much higher chance of a loss of control while accelerating. Slowing your rate of acceleration ensures that your tires will maintain consistent contact with the road, and that your speed can build smoothly. In the event of a loss of control, you vehicle can spin or slide, and even regain traction at unexpected times, leaving you open for collisions with other drivers on the road, and obstacles alongside it.
You should also regularly check the condition of your windshield wiper blades. If cracked and weathered from lack of use during the summer months, it may be time to change them. Without wipers that adequately wipe away rain and snow, you can be caught stranded in a heavy downpour, unable to see where you are going. You should check to make sure your wipers are installed correctly, and that nothing has been caught between them and the windshield before you take to the street. If you fail to perform these checks before the rains come, you can leave yourself susceptible to a dangerous situation that could have easily been avoided.
First, your overall speeds should be reduced. Slippery roads inhibit the performance of your vehicle, making it more difficult to turn, brake, or accelerate, and high speeds prevent you from being able to perform the correct maneuver in a safe amount of time. When braking, do so earlier and with less force than you would on a dry road, as wet roads increase stopping distances significantly. Not only does this allow you ample space to safely avoid a collision with whatever is in front of you, it also gives a clear indication to the drivers behind you that you are making a stop, allowing them the time needed to stop safely as well.
When turning, avoid tight, quick corning as the lack of traction can easily send your vehicle rolling onto its side. Take turns at a slower pace than you would in dry conditions, and perform a more gradual turning motion to prevent this possibility for rollovers. Sharp turns can also be an indication of a lack of focus while behind that wheel, or confusion about when or where to turn. This can be counteracted by clearly mapping out your route before setting off, and paying close attention when your next turn is approaching. Avoid any in car distractions like cell phones or touch screen navigation systems can keep to the task of driving.
Acceleration should also be performed more gradually to prevent any loss of control. Because of the slipperiness of the road, there is a much higher chance of a loss of control while accelerating. Slowing your rate of acceleration ensures that your tires will maintain consistent contact with the road, and that your speed can build smoothly. In the event of a loss of control, you vehicle can spin or slide, and even regain traction at unexpected times, leaving you open for collisions with other drivers on the road, and obstacles alongside it.
You should also regularly check the condition of your windshield wiper blades. If cracked and weathered from lack of use during the summer months, it may be time to change them. Without wipers that adequately wipe away rain and snow, you can be caught stranded in a heavy downpour, unable to see where you are going. You should check to make sure your wipers are installed correctly, and that nothing has been caught between them and the windshield before you take to the street. If you fail to perform these checks before the rains come, you can leave yourself susceptible to a dangerous situation that could have easily been avoided.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
How Seniors Can Save On Auto Insurance
The majority of senior citizens have stayed with their insurers for many years because quite simply, familiarity is reassuring. However, the auto insurance arena has become more competitive. Insurance firms compete for the patronage of seniors by offering discounts and low insurance premiums, without compromising coverage. Having said such, instead of staying on the same policy or provider, seniors may benefit from checking out deals offered by other firms.
How to get affordable auto insurance for seniors
Shop around
Looking around for affordable insurance products is not as difficult to do these days thanks to the Internet. Price comparison websites let you find insurance firms that offer sufficient coverage with a smaller cash outlay easily and quickly. If you are not very techno-savvy senior, ask a younger member of the family to do this on your behalf.
Look for discounts
Numerous auto insurance companies offer discounts for older drivers, especially those between 50 and 55 years old. Remember though that drivers 75 and older may face higher premiums because this group has one of the highest rates of deadly daytime accidents. To be qualified to receive discounts, much older seniors can enroll in senior driving lessons or drive infrequently.
Drive a low risk car
Some vehicles are more expensive to insure. If you drive a vehicle that is considered low-risk by insurers, you will spend less to insure your car. In addition, you can install safety or security features to your car to shave off a few dollars from your insurance cost.
Avoid tarnishing your driving record
Apart from your choice of vehicle, one of the most important determinants of the cost of your insurance is your driving record. If you are a responsible driver, you will get good driver markdowns. Infractions are assigned points to determine its severity and the risk of covering you. Points can take 3-7 years to diminish based on the seriousness of the violation.
Examine insurance needs
If you can afford it, pay higher deductibles to reduce your premium. You can also drop collision or comprehensive insurance if you own a car that is more than 5 years old or one that has high mileage. Although there are ways to reduce vehicle insurance expenses, as a senior, it would be smart to think about whether you really have to drive at all. If you are already enjoying your retirement, you may no longer have to drive frequently, and it may be better to use those funds elsewhere. Do not equate giving up driving as loss of independence, instead consider it as a means of making the most of your retirement funds.
How to get affordable auto insurance for seniors
Shop around
Looking around for affordable insurance products is not as difficult to do these days thanks to the Internet. Price comparison websites let you find insurance firms that offer sufficient coverage with a smaller cash outlay easily and quickly. If you are not very techno-savvy senior, ask a younger member of the family to do this on your behalf.
Look for discounts
Numerous auto insurance companies offer discounts for older drivers, especially those between 50 and 55 years old. Remember though that drivers 75 and older may face higher premiums because this group has one of the highest rates of deadly daytime accidents. To be qualified to receive discounts, much older seniors can enroll in senior driving lessons or drive infrequently.
Drive a low risk car
Some vehicles are more expensive to insure. If you drive a vehicle that is considered low-risk by insurers, you will spend less to insure your car. In addition, you can install safety or security features to your car to shave off a few dollars from your insurance cost.
Avoid tarnishing your driving record
Apart from your choice of vehicle, one of the most important determinants of the cost of your insurance is your driving record. If you are a responsible driver, you will get good driver markdowns. Infractions are assigned points to determine its severity and the risk of covering you. Points can take 3-7 years to diminish based on the seriousness of the violation.
Examine insurance needs
If you can afford it, pay higher deductibles to reduce your premium. You can also drop collision or comprehensive insurance if you own a car that is more than 5 years old or one that has high mileage. Although there are ways to reduce vehicle insurance expenses, as a senior, it would be smart to think about whether you really have to drive at all. If you are already enjoying your retirement, you may no longer have to drive frequently, and it may be better to use those funds elsewhere. Do not equate giving up driving as loss of independence, instead consider it as a means of making the most of your retirement funds.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Painting Your Car the Way You Want It
There are a whole lot of different ways to improve the appearance of your car or just give it a look that seems more stylish in your eyes. Whether you are preparing for a race or you just want to improve the cars looks a bit with a custom look you designed, it can be helpful to know where to buy the right spray paint. It isn't like you can just paint your car with any kind of paint - this would not ensure a proper job. Instead, if you want to have your car looking nice and shiny with a professional paint job, then you will certainly need to make sure that you buy the right paint for it.
The good news is that you do not need to be a professional car painter to do a good paint job on your car. However, it is certainly true that the sort of paint job you will get from a professional will be largely superior to that of what you could expect to get if you do not already have at least some basic experience with painting cares. Taking the time to learn more about the process of painting a car will help to supply you with some basic skills, but it is experience that will help you the most in every case.
One thing you will want to do is make sure that the paint you buy is of grade A quality. There are certainly a wide variety of car paints out there, so make sure that you find the stuff you like. If you are not entirely clear about the kind of paint that you need, spend some time online doing research. There is a good chance that after having read a few articles or reviews about car paint you will have all of the information that you may need to make a smart decision.
Then, it is time to go to work on your car. This is something that you will want to approach very carefully, because one mistake can cost a lot of time and effort to undo. Spending some time learning about how to effectively spray paint a vehicle will certainly help a lot, but if you are a bit nervous about it you should feel free to hire a professional. You may also want to consider enlisting the help of a friend who might know a bit more about how to paint a car properly.
Additionally, keep in mind that there are a lot of different kinds of car paint available and they can be charged for at very high prices. This is because car paint is a different kind of paint and there are certain ingredients to it that cost quite a bit of money. If you happen to be on a budget and are trying to save some money on a purchase of this sort, make sure to spend some time searching around so that you can find a good car paint shop offering lower prices.
The good news is that you do not need to be a professional car painter to do a good paint job on your car. However, it is certainly true that the sort of paint job you will get from a professional will be largely superior to that of what you could expect to get if you do not already have at least some basic experience with painting cares. Taking the time to learn more about the process of painting a car will help to supply you with some basic skills, but it is experience that will help you the most in every case.
One thing you will want to do is make sure that the paint you buy is of grade A quality. There are certainly a wide variety of car paints out there, so make sure that you find the stuff you like. If you are not entirely clear about the kind of paint that you need, spend some time online doing research. There is a good chance that after having read a few articles or reviews about car paint you will have all of the information that you may need to make a smart decision.
Then, it is time to go to work on your car. This is something that you will want to approach very carefully, because one mistake can cost a lot of time and effort to undo. Spending some time learning about how to effectively spray paint a vehicle will certainly help a lot, but if you are a bit nervous about it you should feel free to hire a professional. You may also want to consider enlisting the help of a friend who might know a bit more about how to paint a car properly.
Additionally, keep in mind that there are a lot of different kinds of car paint available and they can be charged for at very high prices. This is because car paint is a different kind of paint and there are certain ingredients to it that cost quite a bit of money. If you happen to be on a budget and are trying to save some money on a purchase of this sort, make sure to spend some time searching around so that you can find a good car paint shop offering lower prices.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Accessorising The Interior And Exterior Of Your Car
When people think of purchasing a new car the initial thought is usually to the exterior design. The colour of the car is important and the way it looks, even though people spend more time inside the vehicle than looking at it from the outside. The exterior is often customisable when buying a brand new car, but there are various commodities inside that can now be fitted and added on as extras too.
When buying a brand new car the colour is something that many people will want to choose, although standard colours are cheaper to buy than the metallic shades. Choosing to have matching coloured wing mirrors or something in chrome are other little extras that get added on. When people start to really look into these things their new purchase can end up costing a lot more than the original figure. There are also various stickers, including designs of butterflies and flowers, which can be bought. Of course once all of these additions are put together the car will look fantastic from the outside but when deciding to spend money on extras for the car it would be worthwhile to look at what you can get inside first as they will end up being much more useful.
For those who love listening to their own music choices as opposed to what comes on the radio, built in MP3 player docks and the ability to plug them in would be great accessories to have. Obviously it is illegal to drive whilst speaking on your phone to someone if you are holding the mobile. However hands free kits are available that allow you to talk without having to hold anything. Cars can even come fitted with this deice already and you are able to hear the person through the speakers, this is a fantastic and much needed accessory if you run your own business. People like to add a touch of personality to the inside of the car too as they see it as something they own and would want to decorate just like they would with their bedroom but on a smaller scale. These come in the form of teddies, air fresheners, car mats and more. If you take a look through car windows these are some of the common items that can be seen.
When buying a brand new car the colour is something that many people will want to choose, although standard colours are cheaper to buy than the metallic shades. Choosing to have matching coloured wing mirrors or something in chrome are other little extras that get added on. When people start to really look into these things their new purchase can end up costing a lot more than the original figure. There are also various stickers, including designs of butterflies and flowers, which can be bought. Of course once all of these additions are put together the car will look fantastic from the outside but when deciding to spend money on extras for the car it would be worthwhile to look at what you can get inside first as they will end up being much more useful.
For those who love listening to their own music choices as opposed to what comes on the radio, built in MP3 player docks and the ability to plug them in would be great accessories to have. Obviously it is illegal to drive whilst speaking on your phone to someone if you are holding the mobile. However hands free kits are available that allow you to talk without having to hold anything. Cars can even come fitted with this deice already and you are able to hear the person through the speakers, this is a fantastic and much needed accessory if you run your own business. People like to add a touch of personality to the inside of the car too as they see it as something they own and would want to decorate just like they would with their bedroom but on a smaller scale. These come in the form of teddies, air fresheners, car mats and more. If you take a look through car windows these are some of the common items that can be seen.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Check Your Tyres Tread Depth
When motorists are out driving on and off the roads they forget that the only bit of contact with the ground below them that they have is between the surface and their tyres. Tyres look quite large when you see them, but the amount that touches the road is roughly the size of a postcard! This is why it is essential to have the correct type fitted and that they are in the best condition possible, especially so during the cold weather months.
When learning to drive, everyone will learn that the legal tread depth requirement is 1.6mm in a continuous band across three quarters of the centre of the tyre. When one gets to this stage it will need to be replaced immediately. If possible change it before this stage, especially if colder weather is about to hit. The deeper the tread depth the better they will give you grip on the road, which is essential to prevent the car from skidding. Many car accidents are caused when cars skid out of control which can be down to poor quality or worn out tyres. Tyres should be fitted by a professional. Of course if you are a car mechanic yourself and are able to do it easily yourself from home that is fine, but if you are unsure or just for ease it is best to take it to a garage.
Most tyres typically begin with an 8mm tread depth and people usually change them once this is worn down to about 3mm to be on the safe side. There is various ways to check the depth. Modern day tyres usually have a wear bar on the tyres; the raised bars are visible in the tread lanes and once these become level then they need changing immediately, especially so if they are below them! You can also use a 20p pence, you stick it in various tread lanes on the tyre and if there is a raised edge of the 20p piece visible then they need changing.
Make sure to add inspecting your tyres into your regular car checking routine. Your braking distance will be seriously affected if the tyres become too worn. You would not walk around with holey shoes that were worn out and it is even more important that your cars 'shoes' are fit for purpose so you can drive from A to B knowing that the only thing touching the road is of a high quality.
When learning to drive, everyone will learn that the legal tread depth requirement is 1.6mm in a continuous band across three quarters of the centre of the tyre. When one gets to this stage it will need to be replaced immediately. If possible change it before this stage, especially if colder weather is about to hit. The deeper the tread depth the better they will give you grip on the road, which is essential to prevent the car from skidding. Many car accidents are caused when cars skid out of control which can be down to poor quality or worn out tyres. Tyres should be fitted by a professional. Of course if you are a car mechanic yourself and are able to do it easily yourself from home that is fine, but if you are unsure or just for ease it is best to take it to a garage.
Most tyres typically begin with an 8mm tread depth and people usually change them once this is worn down to about 3mm to be on the safe side. There is various ways to check the depth. Modern day tyres usually have a wear bar on the tyres; the raised bars are visible in the tread lanes and once these become level then they need changing immediately, especially so if they are below them! You can also use a 20p pence, you stick it in various tread lanes on the tyre and if there is a raised edge of the 20p piece visible then they need changing.
Make sure to add inspecting your tyres into your regular car checking routine. Your braking distance will be seriously affected if the tyres become too worn. You would not walk around with holey shoes that were worn out and it is even more important that your cars 'shoes' are fit for purpose so you can drive from A to B knowing that the only thing touching the road is of a high quality.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Brake Repair - Cutting Through The Fog
To say the average car owner knows little about their automobile would probably be an understatement. It's not that maintenance and the inner goings-on of a car are so complicated so much as it is that most people simply don't care. It does take some study and hands on experience to familiarize yourself with your car's parts, and this is more time than most people are willing to put in. There's nothing wrong with this, except that it often leads to confusion and surprise when the car owner stands in front of a mechanic. While it might take a lot of effort to become a certified mechanic, it takes only a few moments to learn enough to talk reasonably about the subject of brake repair. Here are a few basics that can ensure you stay in the loop.
The Front Brakes
One of the most misunderstood concepts of brake repair is the question of why the front ones always seem to go out before the back ones do. Cars are typically designed with a somewhat different system for the front and back wheels. The front uses a disc system while the back wheels use a rear drum setup. Those front discs will usually wear out much faster simply because a car's weight tends to shift forward as the vehicle comes to a stop. This puts more pressure on the pads to stop the inertia. It's really nothing more than that. The type of driver you are will have an effect as well. Those who often stomp on the brakes to stop the car will have to change pads much more often than those who roll to an easy stop.
The Rotors
A good brake repair shop will usually machine the rotors while changing out the pads. This is because over time, the rotors will wear unevenly, creating a strange thrumming effect when the car comes to a stop. By machining the rotors, it evens out the surface and gives the driver back that smooth stopping power. Eventually, of course, the mechanic is going to run out of rotor metal to smooth out and to do it again would be dangerous. This is why new rotors may be recommended when you go in for a pad change.
Poor Driving Habits
Yes, there are things you can do to extend the time between brake repair visits. While getting your pads changed out should be a regular part of your maintenance routine, you may be doing it more often than you really need to be. This is probably due to your driving habits. Aggressive driving is chief among the problems, although anyone who "rides the pedal" when driving is going to cause premature wear as well.
The Front Brakes
One of the most misunderstood concepts of brake repair is the question of why the front ones always seem to go out before the back ones do. Cars are typically designed with a somewhat different system for the front and back wheels. The front uses a disc system while the back wheels use a rear drum setup. Those front discs will usually wear out much faster simply because a car's weight tends to shift forward as the vehicle comes to a stop. This puts more pressure on the pads to stop the inertia. It's really nothing more than that. The type of driver you are will have an effect as well. Those who often stomp on the brakes to stop the car will have to change pads much more often than those who roll to an easy stop.
The Rotors
A good brake repair shop will usually machine the rotors while changing out the pads. This is because over time, the rotors will wear unevenly, creating a strange thrumming effect when the car comes to a stop. By machining the rotors, it evens out the surface and gives the driver back that smooth stopping power. Eventually, of course, the mechanic is going to run out of rotor metal to smooth out and to do it again would be dangerous. This is why new rotors may be recommended when you go in for a pad change.
Poor Driving Habits
Yes, there are things you can do to extend the time between brake repair visits. While getting your pads changed out should be a regular part of your maintenance routine, you may be doing it more often than you really need to be. This is probably due to your driving habits. Aggressive driving is chief among the problems, although anyone who "rides the pedal" when driving is going to cause premature wear as well.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Most Sensible Ways To Get Rid Of Junk Cars
After a few years of serving you and your family and creating a number of great memories, your good old car will stop functioning properly and if not maintained and serviced at a regular interval, it will completely stop working and turn into a piece of junk. IF this state arrives then there is not much you can do to make some use out of it and it will have to be disposed of. Though you love your old car a lot and do not want to part with it, a junk car in your backyard just adds up to the other things causing a mess around and the space it uses can definitely be used for something more productive. Also, apart from the mess and the space, a junk car standing in your backyard reduces the beauty of the house you live in and might also attract small animals and birds to make it their home. This is the reason why you need to find some or the other way to get rid of it and here are a few of the most common and sensible ways to do it.
If you are one of those people who like working towards a greener and a cleaner environment and believe in steps that will help in doing some good to the community, you can choose to recycle your car or give it to one of the recycling agencies. Your car will be used in something environmentally responsible and you can even choose the way in which you want it to be recycled. This way you will be able to get rid of the car as well as increase the feel-good factor by doing something nice and proving to be a good citizen.
The next option you have is to give away your car in return for cash. If you are looking for some good returns for your junk car and do not want to recycle it, selling it for money is a great option. There are a number of agencies that will be ready to take-in your junk car and give you cash according to the condition your car is in. This way you will be able to get some money out of something that is of no use to you anymore and you can use that money whichever way you like. Some of the agencies also provide with the service of towing the right from your house and this way, the trouble of transporting the car is also not on your shoulders.
Few other options you have to remove the junk car from your property is by donating it to charity. There are a number of charities which earn some money using the working parts of the cars which are not working and use the money for various social causes. You can decide as to which charity you want to give your car to and know about the cause you are going to help in. A great benefit that you are going to get in return by donating the car is a tax - reduction to a greater level and this way, you will be able to indirectly save some money out of your junk car. These are the few most common ways you can choose to get rid of the junk car that you own.
If you are one of those people who like working towards a greener and a cleaner environment and believe in steps that will help in doing some good to the community, you can choose to recycle your car or give it to one of the recycling agencies. Your car will be used in something environmentally responsible and you can even choose the way in which you want it to be recycled. This way you will be able to get rid of the car as well as increase the feel-good factor by doing something nice and proving to be a good citizen.
The next option you have is to give away your car in return for cash. If you are looking for some good returns for your junk car and do not want to recycle it, selling it for money is a great option. There are a number of agencies that will be ready to take-in your junk car and give you cash according to the condition your car is in. This way you will be able to get some money out of something that is of no use to you anymore and you can use that money whichever way you like. Some of the agencies also provide with the service of towing the right from your house and this way, the trouble of transporting the car is also not on your shoulders.
Few other options you have to remove the junk car from your property is by donating it to charity. There are a number of charities which earn some money using the working parts of the cars which are not working and use the money for various social causes. You can decide as to which charity you want to give your car to and know about the cause you are going to help in. A great benefit that you are going to get in return by donating the car is a tax - reduction to a greater level and this way, you will be able to indirectly save some money out of your junk car. These are the few most common ways you can choose to get rid of the junk car that you own.
Friday, November 2, 2012
The 5 Worst Driving Habits in the UK
Do you have any bad driving habits? Most people will tell you that they are good drivers. In fact, some sources suggest that up to 90% of drivers think they are a 'good' driver. Another study found that 93% of Americans thought they would rank in the top 50% for driving skill. So why do I always seem to be sharing the road with the rubbish 7-10%?
Regardless of how you imagine your own driving ability, it is very easy to spot bad driving habits in others. Having spent countless hours sitting alongside complete strangers while they test drive cars, here are my '5 Worst Driving Habits'. This is not about blatant law-breaking activity (drink driving, texting while driving, barrelling through a school zone at 150mph, etc.), but rather the everyday driving habits people seem to develop, either consciously or unconsciously. Although they may seem harmless, most of them do break the law at some point, and can lead to a dangerous situation on the road.
Bad Driving Habits #5: Speed up, slow down, speed up, slow down
If you use cruise control when you drive, this habit is very easy to spot in others. How many times have you passed someone on a motorway, only to have them come flying past you again a few minutes later?
This bad driving habit is also easily found in taxi drivers around the world. For some reason, every minicab driver seems to think that driving consists of slamming his accelerator flat to the floor, only ever taking his foot off to jam it on the brakes. As well as dramatically increasing fuel consumption and brake wear, it can be dangerous if you are leaving no margin for error by having to always brake heavily at the last minute.
Bad Driving Habits #4: Pushing in
Driving in London can be frustrating, as millions of cars try to all make their way around and across the city. But some drivers seem to think that they have the right to simply pull out into traffic and make everyone else brake for them. This applies to junctions, exits and motorway lane changing.
I like to think that I'm generally a courteous driver. If I see someone waiting to pull out at a T-junction or indicating that they want to move into my lane, I will slow and allow them in (obviously checking my mirrors first, to make sure I'm not about to cause an accident). But if someone is trying to push their way out into the road or into my lane and simply expecting me to slow for them, then they get no such courtesy. Same goes for people pushing into queues at the last minute, which brings me to...
Bad Driving Habits No. 3: The last-minute lane change
Last-minute lane changers usually fall into two groups: the "Arrgh, this is my turn-off RIGHT HERE!"; and the arrogant idiots who simply try and push into a queue at the last possible minute to gain themselves a 13-second advantage by not waiting in line. The first group are usually new to the area, and it doesn't bother me. A portable satnav stuck to the windscreen is usually a giveaway, and given how slow some nav units are at giving directions, it's not surprising that drivers don't get enough warning of their turn-offs. The second group (again, often minicab drivers) are simply very rude people who think they're being clever when actually they're showing a complete lack of respect for their fellow road users.
Last-minute lane changers are especially dangerous for cyclists, as the driver may have a quick check of the mirror in the millisecond before they swing across traffic, but the chances of them seeing a bike or scooter are non-existent.
Bad Driving Habits No. 2: Failing to Give Way to Pedestrians
It amazes me that so few drivers in the UK respect the right of way for pedestrians crossing roads at intersections. The Highway Code states that cars must give way to pedestrians who have already started to cross a road. This applies to cars turning both left and right into a junction. Yet it is rare to see cars stopping for pedestrians, especially cars turning right at an intersection. As a car driver, it delays your journey by about 3 seconds to slow or stop for a pedestrian. There is no excuse for not giving way to pedestrians at all times, even when not strictly required to by law - especially if it's cold and raining outside while you're snug and warm in your car. The same applies to cars blocking pedestrian crossings when stopped in traffic - there's just no need, and it forces pedestrians out of the crossing zone into potential danger.
Bad Driving Habits No. 1: Failing to Keep Left Unless Overtaking
This is probably the most annoying of all bad driving habits on the road. Widespread failure to keep left effectively turns many three-lane motorways into two-lane roads, slowing vast volumes of traffic and increasing accident risk for large numbers of cars.
Regardless of how you imagine your own driving ability, it is very easy to spot bad driving habits in others. Having spent countless hours sitting alongside complete strangers while they test drive cars, here are my '5 Worst Driving Habits'. This is not about blatant law-breaking activity (drink driving, texting while driving, barrelling through a school zone at 150mph, etc.), but rather the everyday driving habits people seem to develop, either consciously or unconsciously. Although they may seem harmless, most of them do break the law at some point, and can lead to a dangerous situation on the road.
Bad Driving Habits #5: Speed up, slow down, speed up, slow down
If you use cruise control when you drive, this habit is very easy to spot in others. How many times have you passed someone on a motorway, only to have them come flying past you again a few minutes later?
This bad driving habit is also easily found in taxi drivers around the world. For some reason, every minicab driver seems to think that driving consists of slamming his accelerator flat to the floor, only ever taking his foot off to jam it on the brakes. As well as dramatically increasing fuel consumption and brake wear, it can be dangerous if you are leaving no margin for error by having to always brake heavily at the last minute.
Bad Driving Habits #4: Pushing in
Driving in London can be frustrating, as millions of cars try to all make their way around and across the city. But some drivers seem to think that they have the right to simply pull out into traffic and make everyone else brake for them. This applies to junctions, exits and motorway lane changing.
I like to think that I'm generally a courteous driver. If I see someone waiting to pull out at a T-junction or indicating that they want to move into my lane, I will slow and allow them in (obviously checking my mirrors first, to make sure I'm not about to cause an accident). But if someone is trying to push their way out into the road or into my lane and simply expecting me to slow for them, then they get no such courtesy. Same goes for people pushing into queues at the last minute, which brings me to...
Bad Driving Habits No. 3: The last-minute lane change
Last-minute lane changers usually fall into two groups: the "Arrgh, this is my turn-off RIGHT HERE!"; and the arrogant idiots who simply try and push into a queue at the last possible minute to gain themselves a 13-second advantage by not waiting in line. The first group are usually new to the area, and it doesn't bother me. A portable satnav stuck to the windscreen is usually a giveaway, and given how slow some nav units are at giving directions, it's not surprising that drivers don't get enough warning of their turn-offs. The second group (again, often minicab drivers) are simply very rude people who think they're being clever when actually they're showing a complete lack of respect for their fellow road users.
Last-minute lane changers are especially dangerous for cyclists, as the driver may have a quick check of the mirror in the millisecond before they swing across traffic, but the chances of them seeing a bike or scooter are non-existent.
Bad Driving Habits No. 2: Failing to Give Way to Pedestrians
It amazes me that so few drivers in the UK respect the right of way for pedestrians crossing roads at intersections. The Highway Code states that cars must give way to pedestrians who have already started to cross a road. This applies to cars turning both left and right into a junction. Yet it is rare to see cars stopping for pedestrians, especially cars turning right at an intersection. As a car driver, it delays your journey by about 3 seconds to slow or stop for a pedestrian. There is no excuse for not giving way to pedestrians at all times, even when not strictly required to by law - especially if it's cold and raining outside while you're snug and warm in your car. The same applies to cars blocking pedestrian crossings when stopped in traffic - there's just no need, and it forces pedestrians out of the crossing zone into potential danger.
Bad Driving Habits No. 1: Failing to Keep Left Unless Overtaking
This is probably the most annoying of all bad driving habits on the road. Widespread failure to keep left effectively turns many three-lane motorways into two-lane roads, slowing vast volumes of traffic and increasing accident risk for large numbers of cars.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Car Cleaning and Detail Services
Car cleaning from a professional may be one of the best things you invest in for the overall maintenance of your vehicle. No matter how many times you tell the kids not to bring food into the car, messes happen. Someone tracks in dirt from the outdoors. Something gets spilled in the trunk. Because these surfaces are not easy to clean, it is critical for individuals to have a professional service detail the interior from time to time. This is one of the best ways to maintain the overall cleanliness of the space.
What Is Detailing?
Basic car cleaning provides for sweeping it out and wiping down services. However, there are times when you want a more thorough cleaning. That is where detailing services come into play. The goal of this process is to bring the vehicle back to a near-new condition. That means that every detail of the space is cleaned and it is improved to bring it back to its original cleanliness and condition.
Exterior Details
Each company does their own type of steps to achieve this. An exterior detailing will likely include hand washing the vehicle, along with the wheels and wheel wells. It will include conditioning all plastic and rubber moldings. Chrome parts such as the bumper, grill and accessories will get a good polish. Then, a waxing process is applied. This will clean, polish, and protect the vehicle long term.
Interior Details
The interior of any vehicle requires regular attention. That is where the people sit and interact, which means it is most likely the place where problems can occur. With this type of service, the provider will focus on shampooing carpeting and mats. The cloth seats get professional treatment as well. Those with leather interiors will have them cleaned, sanitized, and the leather conditioned to protect it. The interior windows, windshields, and other surfaces are cleaned. The trunk is also cleaned out. In addition, even the seatbelts and headliners are sanitized and wiped down.
What Should You Get?
Depending on the condition of the vehicle, you may or may not want a thorough detailing. If you plan to have someone in the vehicle that is important, this type of deep clean can make the entire vehicle feel brand new again. At the same time, this process does take longer and costs significantly more. Nevertheless, it may be well worth it.
Car cleaning is a must. Not only do you want to sit in a vehicle that is clean and fresh, but you also want to maintain the overall condition long-term. Discuss the need for a deep clean with your specialist. You may find that once you get this type of care one time, you will want it every time you get the vehicle cleaned.
What Is Detailing?
Basic car cleaning provides for sweeping it out and wiping down services. However, there are times when you want a more thorough cleaning. That is where detailing services come into play. The goal of this process is to bring the vehicle back to a near-new condition. That means that every detail of the space is cleaned and it is improved to bring it back to its original cleanliness and condition.
Exterior Details
Each company does their own type of steps to achieve this. An exterior detailing will likely include hand washing the vehicle, along with the wheels and wheel wells. It will include conditioning all plastic and rubber moldings. Chrome parts such as the bumper, grill and accessories will get a good polish. Then, a waxing process is applied. This will clean, polish, and protect the vehicle long term.
Interior Details
The interior of any vehicle requires regular attention. That is where the people sit and interact, which means it is most likely the place where problems can occur. With this type of service, the provider will focus on shampooing carpeting and mats. The cloth seats get professional treatment as well. Those with leather interiors will have them cleaned, sanitized, and the leather conditioned to protect it. The interior windows, windshields, and other surfaces are cleaned. The trunk is also cleaned out. In addition, even the seatbelts and headliners are sanitized and wiped down.
What Should You Get?
Depending on the condition of the vehicle, you may or may not want a thorough detailing. If you plan to have someone in the vehicle that is important, this type of deep clean can make the entire vehicle feel brand new again. At the same time, this process does take longer and costs significantly more. Nevertheless, it may be well worth it.
Car cleaning is a must. Not only do you want to sit in a vehicle that is clean and fresh, but you also want to maintain the overall condition long-term. Discuss the need for a deep clean with your specialist. You may find that once you get this type of care one time, you will want it every time you get the vehicle cleaned.
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Benefits of Using An Android Car GPS Unit
Most of the modern day cars come with built in GPS systems which will guide the driver to correctly reach a destination. But with the developments in mobile technology, the Smartphones are able to provide better mobile GPS connectivity than what is capable with a built-in car GPS. This is provided by the android operating system developed by Google. The GPS app in android phone will help us to view turn by turn update of the road in which we are traveling. They will also provide us the necessary update on the roads regularly. The latest features like Google Street View Capabilities will be beneficial for those who are exploring a new place.
One of the compelling features for using android GPS system is that it is always connected to internet and the information that is gained from them are up-to-date. This feature is not available with built in GPS units as it gets updated only when they are taken to the service center and connected to a computer. Thus the information provided by in-car-GPS will become outdated soon. The turn-by-turn feature is something which can give you accurate position of your location and will guide you to the given destination by telling you accurately where to turn your vehicle.
Another feature of android phones is that they can be operated by voice commands. You can just tell the place to which you need the direction and suddenly the phone will give you all the needed updates about that place. The speech recognition technology is safer than handling the phone while you are driving. This feature is available in all the latest android phones. Then there are options for automatically showing the pictures and street view of the places through which you are passing.
For using as a GPS unit, the phone must be securely placed on a rigid support. There are many mounting devices available in the market for placing your phone on the dashboard while you are driving. The only downside of using android GPS unit is that it should always be connected to the internet. Same is the case with all GPS systems. While using the maps in android phones, there is a constant usage of data which will cost you money. But comparatively the charge levied is less. This is not a problem if you are using an unlimited data plan which is easily available from all the service providers.
One of the compelling features for using android GPS system is that it is always connected to internet and the information that is gained from them are up-to-date. This feature is not available with built in GPS units as it gets updated only when they are taken to the service center and connected to a computer. Thus the information provided by in-car-GPS will become outdated soon. The turn-by-turn feature is something which can give you accurate position of your location and will guide you to the given destination by telling you accurately where to turn your vehicle.
Another feature of android phones is that they can be operated by voice commands. You can just tell the place to which you need the direction and suddenly the phone will give you all the needed updates about that place. The speech recognition technology is safer than handling the phone while you are driving. This feature is available in all the latest android phones. Then there are options for automatically showing the pictures and street view of the places through which you are passing.
For using as a GPS unit, the phone must be securely placed on a rigid support. There are many mounting devices available in the market for placing your phone on the dashboard while you are driving. The only downside of using android GPS unit is that it should always be connected to the internet. Same is the case with all GPS systems. While using the maps in android phones, there is a constant usage of data which will cost you money. But comparatively the charge levied is less. This is not a problem if you are using an unlimited data plan which is easily available from all the service providers.
Friday, October 19, 2012
The Three Categories To Choose From When Getting A Car Wash
Not every car wash is exactly the same. Professional washes for motor vehicles are broken down into three different categories. These categories include self-serve, touch-less automatic and friction automation. Once you gain a better understanding of each type, then you will know which one is best suited to your needs.
The self-serve car wash is one where all of the equipment you need to get your motor vehicle clean is right before you and available to be used. A patron of the establishment would drive his or her automobile into the bay and would then proceed to use a hose or a power washer as well as a soap wand to get the car looking spiffy and spotless. In this case, you can stand there and wash and scrub your vehicle as if you were standing in your driveway at home. Self-serve washes are most often coin operated. Some of them have attendants on hand to help while others are completely self-service in every way.
The touch-less automatic car wash is one where you drive your vehicle into a bay and from there onto a conveyor belt. Once there your automobile is moved through the process involved in the washing system. The equipment used would move up and down the length of your motor vehicle and would use numerous products to ensure that your car is thoroughly washed and rinsed. High-pressure nozzles make this process possible. Numerous soaps would be put to use, as would be cleaning agents. Finally, special finishes and waxes would be used in order to protect the exterior of the car and to give it a shiny appearance.
The third type of car wash is known as the friction automation wash. These washes are similar in nature to the touch-less automatic ones because they have an automatic way about them that directs the car onto a bay and a conveyor belt. What is different about this vehicle wash however is that there are rotating cylinders made of a soft material that touch the automobile and scrub away outer grime and dirt.
If you live in a large city then you may find all three types of washing facilities in your area. However if you reside in a smaller community, then you may have less options and will have to use whatever is available whether you like it or not.
The choice of which car wash is best suited to you is mainly a question of preference. There is no right or wrong answer in this case but merely what you like the most. Some drivers like the attention to detail that they can provide their cars when they use a self-serve operation. Other people may prefer to take a faster approach and go with the touch-less automatic or the friction automation. The best way to know which you prefer is to give all three of them a try and then decide!
The self-serve car wash is one where all of the equipment you need to get your motor vehicle clean is right before you and available to be used. A patron of the establishment would drive his or her automobile into the bay and would then proceed to use a hose or a power washer as well as a soap wand to get the car looking spiffy and spotless. In this case, you can stand there and wash and scrub your vehicle as if you were standing in your driveway at home. Self-serve washes are most often coin operated. Some of them have attendants on hand to help while others are completely self-service in every way.
The touch-less automatic car wash is one where you drive your vehicle into a bay and from there onto a conveyor belt. Once there your automobile is moved through the process involved in the washing system. The equipment used would move up and down the length of your motor vehicle and would use numerous products to ensure that your car is thoroughly washed and rinsed. High-pressure nozzles make this process possible. Numerous soaps would be put to use, as would be cleaning agents. Finally, special finishes and waxes would be used in order to protect the exterior of the car and to give it a shiny appearance.
The third type of car wash is known as the friction automation wash. These washes are similar in nature to the touch-less automatic ones because they have an automatic way about them that directs the car onto a bay and a conveyor belt. What is different about this vehicle wash however is that there are rotating cylinders made of a soft material that touch the automobile and scrub away outer grime and dirt.
If you live in a large city then you may find all three types of washing facilities in your area. However if you reside in a smaller community, then you may have less options and will have to use whatever is available whether you like it or not.
The choice of which car wash is best suited to you is mainly a question of preference. There is no right or wrong answer in this case but merely what you like the most. Some drivers like the attention to detail that they can provide their cars when they use a self-serve operation. Other people may prefer to take a faster approach and go with the touch-less automatic or the friction automation. The best way to know which you prefer is to give all three of them a try and then decide!
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Air Compressors - An Essential Tool For Your Car
The air compressor is an extremely handy tool for many a vehicle, your bike or car perhaps, even lawnmowers and tractors will require one at some point. It is not just tyres either; an air compressor is used to basically put air into anything that is inflatable.
What Types Of Air Compressors Are There?
Well air compressors go back a long way, and have in fact been used for centuries. One of the most basic would be a bellow for a fire place. Things have come a long way since then though and there are three main types available today.
Hand Air Compressors -This are basically your bicycle pumps. These will be sufficient for footballs and bike tyres and perhaps at a push an inflatable bed. However anything else is likely to have you blowing more out of your mouth through exhaustion than air coming from the pump into your car tyre.
Gas Powered Compressors - These are very cost effective, however the fumes that are emitted are not nice and it can get a bit messy.
Electric Compressors - Generally these are the best all round air compressors, especially for cars, these can be powered through your cigarette lighter socket which makes it so much more convenient.
A compressor should be made to be as portable as possible; this is to enable an effective and convenient way of carrying the device, which is especially important in those tyre emergencies.
Where Can I Acquire A New Compressor?
For the best of convenience these are found all over the internet, however you need to make sure you know what parameters to look for before purchasing. You need to weigh up variables such as the price, power output, size and of course quality of the compressor.
You need to ask yourself the question "What am I going to need this for?", then make your choice accordingly. As we touched on before there are a variety of air compressors, some are better for different purposes than others. If you simply want to pump up the air in your child's football, these will do the job but it may be a slight bit of overkill.
You Want It For the Car?
Ok, so for this purpose there are two things you need to look out for. You need an air compressor with a large volume of air pressure to do the job sufficiently; else you could be waiting a long time. If you are looking for one for the car, ensure it has two options of power source, you would require one plug for the cigarette lighter and another for any home use.
Now that you know a little more about compressors, you simply have to put what you know into practice. Do a little research on exactly what you want and make sure you use a website that delivers and offers a very competitive price. Try to avoid sites that are simply full of hot air!
What Types Of Air Compressors Are There?
Well air compressors go back a long way, and have in fact been used for centuries. One of the most basic would be a bellow for a fire place. Things have come a long way since then though and there are three main types available today.
Hand Air Compressors -This are basically your bicycle pumps. These will be sufficient for footballs and bike tyres and perhaps at a push an inflatable bed. However anything else is likely to have you blowing more out of your mouth through exhaustion than air coming from the pump into your car tyre.
Gas Powered Compressors - These are very cost effective, however the fumes that are emitted are not nice and it can get a bit messy.
Electric Compressors - Generally these are the best all round air compressors, especially for cars, these can be powered through your cigarette lighter socket which makes it so much more convenient.
A compressor should be made to be as portable as possible; this is to enable an effective and convenient way of carrying the device, which is especially important in those tyre emergencies.
Where Can I Acquire A New Compressor?
For the best of convenience these are found all over the internet, however you need to make sure you know what parameters to look for before purchasing. You need to weigh up variables such as the price, power output, size and of course quality of the compressor.
You need to ask yourself the question "What am I going to need this for?", then make your choice accordingly. As we touched on before there are a variety of air compressors, some are better for different purposes than others. If you simply want to pump up the air in your child's football, these will do the job but it may be a slight bit of overkill.
You Want It For the Car?
Ok, so for this purpose there are two things you need to look out for. You need an air compressor with a large volume of air pressure to do the job sufficiently; else you could be waiting a long time. If you are looking for one for the car, ensure it has two options of power source, you would require one plug for the cigarette lighter and another for any home use.
Now that you know a little more about compressors, you simply have to put what you know into practice. Do a little research on exactly what you want and make sure you use a website that delivers and offers a very competitive price. Try to avoid sites that are simply full of hot air!
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
The Wrong Place for Transmission Repair
When you frequently have to drive in or near areas that are less than reputable then you probably have thought that you would not want your vehicle to break down in a place like this. These things happen though, and because of this, you would be wise to have a mechanic you trust in your contact list. The thought of needing transmission repair is probably something you like to keep in the back of your mind rather than the front, but because it is sometimes a necessity, you may want to have the number of a specific business that does this work.
There are a few things you should consider as you look for a transmission repair shop. If an area does tend to be unsafe, try and find out if the shop that you choose would be safe to sit and wait in. Sometimes a larger city will have areas in it that are better than others. You should also consider whether to go with a franchise or a private establishment. In an area that does not tend to be as safe, you may find that a franchise would be the better choice. People trying to cause trouble might not be as likely to come to a well-known location. If you go to a franchise you might also find more standardized service.
Make sure and visit the shops that you choose to go with in a specific area. Try and meet the mechanic, and make sure that you feel comfortable with the people and place. While there, check into the prices of various repairs. If it specializes in transmissions, be sure and ask whether they do rebuilt transmissions, new, or both, as well as what they charge for them. Make sure that they will be offering you the transmission repair work that you will want if the time ever comes that you need it.
If you are trying to find a few transmission repair shops in the area where you travel then you might be wise to start your search on the internet. Once you find a few, feel free to search for reviews of what others have to say about various transmission repair shops and mechanics. If you find that they are a member of the Better Business Bureau then check them out on this website to see their rating. Not every business on this site is good, so you will want to look at the grade the website gives the company as well as reports about the company that may be displayed on the site.
Once you have taken the necessary steps to find the right shop, hopefully you will never have to use the number. At least if the worst does happen though, the company will be in your contact list.
There are a few things you should consider as you look for a transmission repair shop. If an area does tend to be unsafe, try and find out if the shop that you choose would be safe to sit and wait in. Sometimes a larger city will have areas in it that are better than others. You should also consider whether to go with a franchise or a private establishment. In an area that does not tend to be as safe, you may find that a franchise would be the better choice. People trying to cause trouble might not be as likely to come to a well-known location. If you go to a franchise you might also find more standardized service.
Make sure and visit the shops that you choose to go with in a specific area. Try and meet the mechanic, and make sure that you feel comfortable with the people and place. While there, check into the prices of various repairs. If it specializes in transmissions, be sure and ask whether they do rebuilt transmissions, new, or both, as well as what they charge for them. Make sure that they will be offering you the transmission repair work that you will want if the time ever comes that you need it.
If you are trying to find a few transmission repair shops in the area where you travel then you might be wise to start your search on the internet. Once you find a few, feel free to search for reviews of what others have to say about various transmission repair shops and mechanics. If you find that they are a member of the Better Business Bureau then check them out on this website to see their rating. Not every business on this site is good, so you will want to look at the grade the website gives the company as well as reports about the company that may be displayed on the site.
Once you have taken the necessary steps to find the right shop, hopefully you will never have to use the number. At least if the worst does happen though, the company will be in your contact list.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Why You Should Have a Professional Change Your Oil
For many individuals, the recent economic downturn has meant trying to cut costs in any way possible. One way people have tried to cut costs has been by learning trades to cut down on the money spent on car, home or appliance repairs. Specifically, people have been learning to change their own oil. Though there are advantages to changing your own oil like convenience, there are also disadvantages. Read below to see why it is better to have your oil changed by a professional as opposed to doing it yourself:
Save your Time
Changing the oil in your car is no easy task, especially if you are not a trained professional. To change your own oil you need to first teach yourself to do it, and that takes time and effort. It is much simpler to take your car to a professional who has changed oil in cars before. To change the oil in your car by yourself you also need to set time aside for yourself in order to do it. This would require taking time out of your busy schedule, as opposed to being able to take your car in to a professional garage or dealership that has set hours and are always ready to receive your business. Most importantly, you also need special tools to change your own oil and you must also properly dispose of used oil. You cannot simply throw the oil in the trash or dump it in the back yard; you need to properly dispose of used oil. You will also need to purchase special tools to change your oil. Buying these tools and disposing of your used oil takes time and money.
Having your oil changed by professional garages and dealerships will save you time and money. These professionals are better equipped to change your oil because they are specially trained, they have the tools to do the job properly, and they have methods to dispose of your used oil. Attempting to change your own oil may seem more convenient but the hidden costs of purchasing tools, training yourself and disposing of waste add up. The general ease of allowing a professional will save you precious time, energy and money.
No Accountability for Mistakes
Mistakes can be made while changing your oil; they may be as simple as forgetting to put the oil cap back on, but even simple mistakes can be costly. If you change your oil by yourself then you will have to fix any mistakes made. And if you only know how to change oil then you may have to learn to fix these mistakes yourself or go to an outside source to help you.
If you bring your car to a professional then they are held responsible for any mistakes that they make while changing your oil. Though the chance of a mistake being made by professionals is often minimal, this accountability affords you the ease of mind knowing that if a mistake is made while your oil is being changed then it will be taken care of at no extra cost to you.
Paying for Mistakes
The extra cost that comes with mistakes being made by you while changing your car's oil is also another reason why you should allow a professional to change your oil, as opposed to doing it yourself. If you make a mistake that damages your car while changing your oil, ultimately you will have to pay for that mistake in some way, shape or form. These extra costs can, most times, be more than the cost of getting your oil changed. Or worse they can be severe damages that may result in you needing to purchase a new vehicle altogether.
If a mistake is made while your oil is being changed by a professional then they will most often fix your vehicle at no extra cost, or help pay to have the vehicle fixed by another professional. These assurances allow you the luxury of knowing that your car will be taken care of.
Ultimately it is best to have your oil changed by a professional. Professional garages and dealerships have specially trained mechanics that are extremely knowledgeable about changing your cars oil and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that your car will run smoothly.
Save your Time
Changing the oil in your car is no easy task, especially if you are not a trained professional. To change your own oil you need to first teach yourself to do it, and that takes time and effort. It is much simpler to take your car to a professional who has changed oil in cars before. To change the oil in your car by yourself you also need to set time aside for yourself in order to do it. This would require taking time out of your busy schedule, as opposed to being able to take your car in to a professional garage or dealership that has set hours and are always ready to receive your business. Most importantly, you also need special tools to change your own oil and you must also properly dispose of used oil. You cannot simply throw the oil in the trash or dump it in the back yard; you need to properly dispose of used oil. You will also need to purchase special tools to change your oil. Buying these tools and disposing of your used oil takes time and money.
Having your oil changed by professional garages and dealerships will save you time and money. These professionals are better equipped to change your oil because they are specially trained, they have the tools to do the job properly, and they have methods to dispose of your used oil. Attempting to change your own oil may seem more convenient but the hidden costs of purchasing tools, training yourself and disposing of waste add up. The general ease of allowing a professional will save you precious time, energy and money.
No Accountability for Mistakes
Mistakes can be made while changing your oil; they may be as simple as forgetting to put the oil cap back on, but even simple mistakes can be costly. If you change your oil by yourself then you will have to fix any mistakes made. And if you only know how to change oil then you may have to learn to fix these mistakes yourself or go to an outside source to help you.
If you bring your car to a professional then they are held responsible for any mistakes that they make while changing your oil. Though the chance of a mistake being made by professionals is often minimal, this accountability affords you the ease of mind knowing that if a mistake is made while your oil is being changed then it will be taken care of at no extra cost to you.
Paying for Mistakes
The extra cost that comes with mistakes being made by you while changing your car's oil is also another reason why you should allow a professional to change your oil, as opposed to doing it yourself. If you make a mistake that damages your car while changing your oil, ultimately you will have to pay for that mistake in some way, shape or form. These extra costs can, most times, be more than the cost of getting your oil changed. Or worse they can be severe damages that may result in you needing to purchase a new vehicle altogether.
If a mistake is made while your oil is being changed by a professional then they will most often fix your vehicle at no extra cost, or help pay to have the vehicle fixed by another professional. These assurances allow you the luxury of knowing that your car will be taken care of.
Ultimately it is best to have your oil changed by a professional. Professional garages and dealerships have specially trained mechanics that are extremely knowledgeable about changing your cars oil and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that your car will run smoothly.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Things You Should Consider Before and After Shipping Process
A number of people think that hiring an expert car shipping company is the only requirement to ship a car. This is not true because apart from hiring a company, there are certain things required to consider before and after shipping process that if you do not, you may face problems. Therefore, to avoid bad car shipping experience, keeping pre and post shipping requirements regarding auto transport process is imperative:
Before Auto Shipping Process
Before you entrust your vehicle to auto transporter, you must consider the following points:
1. Functionality of Vehicle
Most companies do not like to ship a car that is not functional because it requires them to arrange extra arrangements for its loading and unloading on trailers. Therefore, make sure your vehicle is in perfect running order for transportation process. Some companies do ship an out of order vehicle but for that, you are advised to inform company well before time.
2. Your Car is not a Container
A number of people ship personal belongings along with vehicle, which truly is not safe for vehicle. In addition, if any of the personal belongings are stolen during transportation, then vehicle transporter is not liable because your auto transport insurance only covers your car. Therefore, it is advised not to ship personal belongings along with vehicle.
3. Car Condition Statement
Before you entrust vehicle to auto transporter, you must ask it to prepare a pre shipping condition report of vehicle. This will help you to inspect vehicle after shipping.
4. Fuel in Tank
Make sure the fuel in vehicle is no more than 1/4th of fuel tank.
5. Disable Alarm
You must disable the car alarm systems to make sure the hauler will not need to turn it off repeatedly during transportation.
6. Documents
Do not handover vehicle until the car shipper provides you a signed copy of vehicle shipping insurance, condition report, and vehicle shipping contract
After Auto Shipping Process
On its arrival to the destination point, you must consider the following points:
1. Do not Receive Vehicle at Night
It is imperative as in the darkness, it would not be possible to inspect vehicle appropriately. Therefore, if your auto shipping company asks you to receive your vehicle at night timings make an excuse and ask it to ship it in the day light.
2. Inspect Vehicle
Here comes the role of car condition statement. You must inspect vehicle and match the pre and post car shipping reports. Do not pay and let auto shipper go if you think vehicle is being mishandled during transportation.
Before Auto Shipping Process
Before you entrust your vehicle to auto transporter, you must consider the following points:
1. Functionality of Vehicle
Most companies do not like to ship a car that is not functional because it requires them to arrange extra arrangements for its loading and unloading on trailers. Therefore, make sure your vehicle is in perfect running order for transportation process. Some companies do ship an out of order vehicle but for that, you are advised to inform company well before time.
2. Your Car is not a Container
A number of people ship personal belongings along with vehicle, which truly is not safe for vehicle. In addition, if any of the personal belongings are stolen during transportation, then vehicle transporter is not liable because your auto transport insurance only covers your car. Therefore, it is advised not to ship personal belongings along with vehicle.
3. Car Condition Statement
Before you entrust vehicle to auto transporter, you must ask it to prepare a pre shipping condition report of vehicle. This will help you to inspect vehicle after shipping.
4. Fuel in Tank
Make sure the fuel in vehicle is no more than 1/4th of fuel tank.
5. Disable Alarm
You must disable the car alarm systems to make sure the hauler will not need to turn it off repeatedly during transportation.
6. Documents
Do not handover vehicle until the car shipper provides you a signed copy of vehicle shipping insurance, condition report, and vehicle shipping contract
After Auto Shipping Process
On its arrival to the destination point, you must consider the following points:
1. Do not Receive Vehicle at Night
It is imperative as in the darkness, it would not be possible to inspect vehicle appropriately. Therefore, if your auto shipping company asks you to receive your vehicle at night timings make an excuse and ask it to ship it in the day light.
2. Inspect Vehicle
Here comes the role of car condition statement. You must inspect vehicle and match the pre and post car shipping reports. Do not pay and let auto shipper go if you think vehicle is being mishandled during transportation.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Toyota Sequoia - Efficiency and Power Revisited
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that goes the full mile in providing comfort, style and power that can be relied upon on any type of road and weather.
Exterior
The Sequoia looks majestic and refined, thanks to its solid build and imposing chassis. It is a truck-based SUV that is hard not to spot, and sits eight passengers on average, depending on the model or trim selected. Additionally, it features the following exterior additions:
18-inch alloy wheels
Roof rack
Heated mirrors
Sun roof
Privacy glass
Front and rear parking sensors (for the Limited edition)
Rear-view camera (Limited edition)
Towing package
20 inch chrome alloy wheels (for the Platinum edition)
Engine and Performance
It's easy to guess what kind of power you'd get just by looking at this behemoth of a machine. The Sequoia comes fitted with a standard 4.6 liter V6 engine which manages an output of 310 horsepower and torque of 327 pounds per feet.
Other engine options include a 5.7 liter engine with dual independent variable timing with 381 horsepower. It also comes equipped with an electronic ignition system thanks to Toyota Direct Ignition and is an ultra low emission vehicle II (ULEV II), helping you play a part in reducing carbon emissions.
Interiors
The versatile and spacious cabin of the Sequoia lets you carry a maximum of eight passengers and miscellaneous cargo, making it a perfect camping car. The seat configuration of 40-20-40 with the second row seat being able to recline and slide fore and aft give it the kind of space that a large family dreams of in an ideal family SUV.
Other interior features include:
1. Automatic three-zone air control with climate feature
2. AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA capability with eight speakers thrown in and a free 3 month subscription to XM Radio.
3. Multi-Information display with outside temperature, compass, average fuel economy and distance to empty
4. Fabric-trimmed front seats
5. Cruise control
6. Leather-trimmed telescopic steering wheel that has Bluetooth and hands-free phone controls
Drive, Handling and Safety
The Toyota Sequoia comes fitted with standard anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side-impact airbags, trailer sway control and three-row side-curtain airbags. The engine size and resultant torque and horsepower means that the Sequoia is able to handle whatever comes its way in terms of turns and road conditions.
The 10 inches of ground clearance on this powerful SUV means that this four-wheel drive model can hack it on any terrain thrown its way. Additionally, the fact that it has an adaptive suspension means that its towing capabilities remain impressive without compromising on the SUV's payload.
Exterior
The Sequoia looks majestic and refined, thanks to its solid build and imposing chassis. It is a truck-based SUV that is hard not to spot, and sits eight passengers on average, depending on the model or trim selected. Additionally, it features the following exterior additions:
18-inch alloy wheels
Roof rack
Heated mirrors
Sun roof
Privacy glass
Front and rear parking sensors (for the Limited edition)
Rear-view camera (Limited edition)
Towing package
20 inch chrome alloy wheels (for the Platinum edition)
Engine and Performance
It's easy to guess what kind of power you'd get just by looking at this behemoth of a machine. The Sequoia comes fitted with a standard 4.6 liter V6 engine which manages an output of 310 horsepower and torque of 327 pounds per feet.
Other engine options include a 5.7 liter engine with dual independent variable timing with 381 horsepower. It also comes equipped with an electronic ignition system thanks to Toyota Direct Ignition and is an ultra low emission vehicle II (ULEV II), helping you play a part in reducing carbon emissions.
Interiors
The versatile and spacious cabin of the Sequoia lets you carry a maximum of eight passengers and miscellaneous cargo, making it a perfect camping car. The seat configuration of 40-20-40 with the second row seat being able to recline and slide fore and aft give it the kind of space that a large family dreams of in an ideal family SUV.
Other interior features include:
1. Automatic three-zone air control with climate feature
2. AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA capability with eight speakers thrown in and a free 3 month subscription to XM Radio.
3. Multi-Information display with outside temperature, compass, average fuel economy and distance to empty
4. Fabric-trimmed front seats
5. Cruise control
6. Leather-trimmed telescopic steering wheel that has Bluetooth and hands-free phone controls
Drive, Handling and Safety
The Toyota Sequoia comes fitted with standard anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side-impact airbags, trailer sway control and three-row side-curtain airbags. The engine size and resultant torque and horsepower means that the Sequoia is able to handle whatever comes its way in terms of turns and road conditions.
The 10 inches of ground clearance on this powerful SUV means that this four-wheel drive model can hack it on any terrain thrown its way. Additionally, the fact that it has an adaptive suspension means that its towing capabilities remain impressive without compromising on the SUV's payload.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Ensure the Longevity of Your Car
Investing in a car entails a lot of money. You have to set aside funds for the purchase of the unit. There should also be separate funds for registration, insurance, gas, maintenance and occasional repairs. It is important to take care of your vehicle or else, the hard-earned cash will simply go to waste. Keep your car on the road longer by following these suggestions:
• The break-in phase is your first concern. Your driving speed should not be more than 55 miles per hour during the first 1,000 miles. Check your car owner's manual or confirm with the manufacturer. Make use of light to medium increase of velocity. Ideally, the engine's revolution-per-minutes should be under 3,000 during the initial hours of driving. The vehicle must not be immobile for a long time since oil may not be dispersed to all engine parts.
• Pay attention to the engine's lubrication. Oil and the oil filter have to be changed regularly. The blocked filter means that the engine is performing poorly. If you want to get an accurate reading of your engine oil, drive the car around for 15 minutes and park on a flat surface. Stop the engine and let the oil go back to the pan. Pull the measuring rod and wipe with a clean cloth of paper towel. Put it back and remove again. The level should be somewhere near the middle of the plunger.
• Make it a point to wash your car engine annually. The clean engine makes it less difficult for you to pinpoint leakages and overhaul components. Take good care of the sensitive parts such as electrical items, distributor and air-intake system. Scrutinize the timing belt and hoses. Remove any filth that has accumulated in these hosepipes.
• The cooling mechanism of the car is as important as the condition of the engine lubricant. The breakdown of the cooling system can ruin the entire engine. It is necessary to mix water and anti-freeze. Temper the coolant using the 50-50 proportion. The water facilitates proper transfer of heat from the coolant to the car radiator. On the other hand, cooling chemical serves as a safeguard against freezing and rust. The anti-freeze concentration should be checked every week to makes sure that it is not too low or overflow.
• Check the tires and make sure that the inflation pressure is correct. Tires that are not properly filled with air produce excess heat and strain that will lead to fast breakdown. Inspect your tires at least once every month but at more frequent intervals during the hot summer months.
• Examine the tires for irregular wear and tear. Imbalanced deterioration calls for immediate wheel repositioning. This can also be caused by defective brakes, worn-out bearings and internal damages. Rotate your tires after 6,000 to 7,500 miles of driving. Refer to your manual or dealer for the exact configuration of rotation. Incidentally, the normal requirement for replacement of tires is when it is down to 1.5 millimetres of tire deepness. These are basic tire safety issues that motorists must always be aware of.
• The break-in phase is your first concern. Your driving speed should not be more than 55 miles per hour during the first 1,000 miles. Check your car owner's manual or confirm with the manufacturer. Make use of light to medium increase of velocity. Ideally, the engine's revolution-per-minutes should be under 3,000 during the initial hours of driving. The vehicle must not be immobile for a long time since oil may not be dispersed to all engine parts.
• Pay attention to the engine's lubrication. Oil and the oil filter have to be changed regularly. The blocked filter means that the engine is performing poorly. If you want to get an accurate reading of your engine oil, drive the car around for 15 minutes and park on a flat surface. Stop the engine and let the oil go back to the pan. Pull the measuring rod and wipe with a clean cloth of paper towel. Put it back and remove again. The level should be somewhere near the middle of the plunger.
• Make it a point to wash your car engine annually. The clean engine makes it less difficult for you to pinpoint leakages and overhaul components. Take good care of the sensitive parts such as electrical items, distributor and air-intake system. Scrutinize the timing belt and hoses. Remove any filth that has accumulated in these hosepipes.
• The cooling mechanism of the car is as important as the condition of the engine lubricant. The breakdown of the cooling system can ruin the entire engine. It is necessary to mix water and anti-freeze. Temper the coolant using the 50-50 proportion. The water facilitates proper transfer of heat from the coolant to the car radiator. On the other hand, cooling chemical serves as a safeguard against freezing and rust. The anti-freeze concentration should be checked every week to makes sure that it is not too low or overflow.
• Check the tires and make sure that the inflation pressure is correct. Tires that are not properly filled with air produce excess heat and strain that will lead to fast breakdown. Inspect your tires at least once every month but at more frequent intervals during the hot summer months.
• Examine the tires for irregular wear and tear. Imbalanced deterioration calls for immediate wheel repositioning. This can also be caused by defective brakes, worn-out bearings and internal damages. Rotate your tires after 6,000 to 7,500 miles of driving. Refer to your manual or dealer for the exact configuration of rotation. Incidentally, the normal requirement for replacement of tires is when it is down to 1.5 millimetres of tire deepness. These are basic tire safety issues that motorists must always be aware of.
Friday, October 5, 2012
A Woman's Tips to a New Car Purchase
I was virtually raised in an automobile dealership. For this reason I've never had to purchase a new car. That is until my husband needed to replace his truck last year. I have on the other hand, sold tens of thousands of vehicles as well as assist hundreds make a purchase. It is not enjoyable but it ought to be. Instead people are bombarded with options, product reviews, thoughts and opinions and then they have to negotiate. Insane city! There is something to be said for keep it simple stupid.
If I were to buy a car today I would personally do the following:
1. Compose a list of needs. These are items that you can't live without, in order of importance. If not exceeding a particular monthly payment is the number one priority then put it there and keep it there. If having AWD is your number one on account of your driveway in the winter than remain true to that need.
2. Compose a list of wants. Be mindful that you do not get the two columns confused, it's tempting. For example, you may want an upgraded stereo with a subwoofer, but do you need it? A friend recently bought an SUV and he determined that he had to have a navigation system because he is always on the road for work. He sacrificed his first choice in color (want) since there wasn't one available with the navigation. Wants and needs, extremely important.
3. Compose a list of automobiles that interest you and perform your due diligence online. Use a resource such as AutoTrader to compare and contrast vehicles.
4. Remain objective when researching. Simply because you are in love with the Porsche, if your budgets $30,000 then get real. If you carry out the research and it doesn't comply with your needs remove it from the list!
5. Flex. If you have to have a sunroof but can't afford it maybe you should consider a Certified Pre-Owned.
6. Once you have your list of vehicles whittle it down to 2 or 3. If you have a Honda Fit and a Nissan Murano then there's a problem with the list. Either that or you are the one percent who is able to buy on a whim. In which case you probably don't need my advice.
If I were to buy a car today I would personally do the following:
1. Compose a list of needs. These are items that you can't live without, in order of importance. If not exceeding a particular monthly payment is the number one priority then put it there and keep it there. If having AWD is your number one on account of your driveway in the winter than remain true to that need.
2. Compose a list of wants. Be mindful that you do not get the two columns confused, it's tempting. For example, you may want an upgraded stereo with a subwoofer, but do you need it? A friend recently bought an SUV and he determined that he had to have a navigation system because he is always on the road for work. He sacrificed his first choice in color (want) since there wasn't one available with the navigation. Wants and needs, extremely important.
3. Compose a list of automobiles that interest you and perform your due diligence online. Use a resource such as AutoTrader to compare and contrast vehicles.
4. Remain objective when researching. Simply because you are in love with the Porsche, if your budgets $30,000 then get real. If you carry out the research and it doesn't comply with your needs remove it from the list!
5. Flex. If you have to have a sunroof but can't afford it maybe you should consider a Certified Pre-Owned.
6. Once you have your list of vehicles whittle it down to 2 or 3. If you have a Honda Fit and a Nissan Murano then there's a problem with the list. Either that or you are the one percent who is able to buy on a whim. In which case you probably don't need my advice.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Car Oil Change - Do it Yourself
Getting your oil changed is something that the pros promise they can do in a jiffy, however, with every three thousand miles you drive, the price can add up quickly. You can save yourself some money by doing it yourself. An oil change is not as hard as you may think!
Prior to changing your oil, you will need to pick up some supplies at you favorite parts store. The first thing you will need is six quarts of oil. If your car manufacturer recommends a certain type, you should stick with that. Otherwise, choose a brand you know and trust. (Note- do not mix oil. If you have a quart or two of one brand already at home, make sure you purchase additional quarts of the same kind.) With every oil change, you should always change your oil filter as well. So, you will also need to pick up an oil filter for your particular car. In addition, you will need an oil pan to empty the old oil into. Your best bet is to purchase one that can seal so that you can easily take it to be recycled. And, if you don't have one already, you could use an oil filter wrench.
After you purchase the necessary items, you are ready to start the oil change. First, elevate the vehicle off the ground using your car jack, just enough to access the underside of the engine. (Note: For added safety, make sure you are using a jack stand.) Remove the oil fill cap on the engine. Then, get underneath the engine. The oil pan covers the entire bottom of the engine, and this is what you will be draining from. Find the engine pan drain plug, which is shaped hexagonal (six sides). Place the oil pan you bought underneath. Next, use a socket wrench to loosen the drain plug. The oil will start to come out. Let this drain completely. Once drained, replace the plug and tighten.
Next, move the drain pan so it is under the oil filter. Use your oil filter wrench to rotate the filter counter-clockwise until it comes off. Once loosened, you'll need to unscrew it from the engine with your hands. Once off, place in the oil pan- oil will drip out from the filter. Now, it's time to put on the new filter. When you remove the new filter from the box, you'll see a rubber gasket on the base. A good trick for easy removal in the future is to coat the gasket thoroughly with oil. When that's done, screw the new filter onto the filter pipe tightly.
At this point, you're done underneath, so you can let the car down. But first, get the oil pan and any tools out from under the vehicle. Next, fill the engine with five quarts of oil and put the cap back on. Then, check the oil level. You should see that it's one quart high, and this is just because the filter is not yet full. Next, start the car and let the engine idle for about five minutes. This will allow the oil pump to pick up the new oil, and get it circulating. Also, check under the car to make sure the filter is not leaking any oil. Then, you can shut off the car and check the oil level once again. This time it should read, "full."
Prior to changing your oil, you will need to pick up some supplies at you favorite parts store. The first thing you will need is six quarts of oil. If your car manufacturer recommends a certain type, you should stick with that. Otherwise, choose a brand you know and trust. (Note- do not mix oil. If you have a quart or two of one brand already at home, make sure you purchase additional quarts of the same kind.) With every oil change, you should always change your oil filter as well. So, you will also need to pick up an oil filter for your particular car. In addition, you will need an oil pan to empty the old oil into. Your best bet is to purchase one that can seal so that you can easily take it to be recycled. And, if you don't have one already, you could use an oil filter wrench.
After you purchase the necessary items, you are ready to start the oil change. First, elevate the vehicle off the ground using your car jack, just enough to access the underside of the engine. (Note: For added safety, make sure you are using a jack stand.) Remove the oil fill cap on the engine. Then, get underneath the engine. The oil pan covers the entire bottom of the engine, and this is what you will be draining from. Find the engine pan drain plug, which is shaped hexagonal (six sides). Place the oil pan you bought underneath. Next, use a socket wrench to loosen the drain plug. The oil will start to come out. Let this drain completely. Once drained, replace the plug and tighten.
Next, move the drain pan so it is under the oil filter. Use your oil filter wrench to rotate the filter counter-clockwise until it comes off. Once loosened, you'll need to unscrew it from the engine with your hands. Once off, place in the oil pan- oil will drip out from the filter. Now, it's time to put on the new filter. When you remove the new filter from the box, you'll see a rubber gasket on the base. A good trick for easy removal in the future is to coat the gasket thoroughly with oil. When that's done, screw the new filter onto the filter pipe tightly.
At this point, you're done underneath, so you can let the car down. But first, get the oil pan and any tools out from under the vehicle. Next, fill the engine with five quarts of oil and put the cap back on. Then, check the oil level. You should see that it's one quart high, and this is just because the filter is not yet full. Next, start the car and let the engine idle for about five minutes. This will allow the oil pump to pick up the new oil, and get it circulating. Also, check under the car to make sure the filter is not leaking any oil. Then, you can shut off the car and check the oil level once again. This time it should read, "full."
5 Steps to a Worry-free Vacation - Preparing Your Vehicle for the Summer
Car trouble on your summer vacation is more than just a repair bill . It can mean towing charges, accommodations and a rental car. When you consider the cost of extra phone calls, meals and general annoyance, your vacation can turn into a budget-buster. Most breakdowns can be avoided with a pre-vacation inspection by yourself or a qualified service technician.
So before packing, set aside the time to make sure your car is ready. 15 minutes of preventative maintenance in your driveway just may eliminate hours of aggravating on-the-road problems. Follow these 5 steps and you'll start your trip right.
(1) Fluids:
Check all your vehicle's fluid levels. This would be engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Most cars have transparent reservoir tanks so you may not even need to get your hands dirty. Check the owners' manual for procedures for checking and adding fluids. When you check the brake fluid level, look at the fluid color. You want it to be clear or light amber. If it's dark and cloudy, you've got contaminated brake fluid, and it should be replaced and the brake system flushed.
(2) Belts and Hoses:
All drive belts and hoses should be checked for signs of wear and deterioration. Replace any belt that's frayed, cracked or has chunks missing. With the engine cold, look at all the hoses for leaks, cracks, or swelling. Replace as necessary.
(3) Battery:
One of the biggest culprits is the battery when it comes to vacation stoppers. Make sure the electrolyte fluid is at the proper level. Remove battery caps and look inside- the level should be above the battery plates. If your battery is more than four or five years old, consider replacing it for an even more worry-free trip.
Also, ensure that battery terminals and cables are clean and firmly attached to the terminals. If the terminals and cables are covered with "snow", remove the cables from the battery and thoroughly clean the cables and terminals.
(4) Cooling system:
Continual highway driving and hot summer days combined put a big load on the engine cooling system. How many times have you passed some poor guy on the side of the road with the hood up and steam coming out of the radiator? If your radiator has regular green anti-freeze which hasn't been changed for two years, now is the time to do it. If it has extended life anti-freeze go check the recommended change intervals and if the mileage will be reached during the trip, change it now.
(5) Air-conditioning:
Make sure your air conditioning is working well. Run it for a while in each of its modes, checking that the airflow is coming from all vents. If the system takes an unreasonably long time to cool the inside of the car, or the air just doesn't get cold enough, odds are the system needs to be checked for leaks and recharged.
While following this list of checks, be aware of more generalized warning signs as well. Ticking, clunking or knocking noises, a sudden vibration or shimmy, or anything out of the ordinary is probably a symptom of a hidden problem that should be checked before hitting the road.
No matter how thorough your pre-trip preparations, unexpected problems still occur. That's why it's a good idea to have a basic road-kit onboard if something should happen. Jumper cables, flares, a pre-paid cell phone, spare anti-freeze, a gallon of water, three quarts of oil, and some hand tools are all great to have. You can buy a ready-made emergency kit or make up one your own.
So before packing, set aside the time to make sure your car is ready. 15 minutes of preventative maintenance in your driveway just may eliminate hours of aggravating on-the-road problems. Follow these 5 steps and you'll start your trip right.
(1) Fluids:
Check all your vehicle's fluid levels. This would be engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Most cars have transparent reservoir tanks so you may not even need to get your hands dirty. Check the owners' manual for procedures for checking and adding fluids. When you check the brake fluid level, look at the fluid color. You want it to be clear or light amber. If it's dark and cloudy, you've got contaminated brake fluid, and it should be replaced and the brake system flushed.
(2) Belts and Hoses:
All drive belts and hoses should be checked for signs of wear and deterioration. Replace any belt that's frayed, cracked or has chunks missing. With the engine cold, look at all the hoses for leaks, cracks, or swelling. Replace as necessary.
(3) Battery:
One of the biggest culprits is the battery when it comes to vacation stoppers. Make sure the electrolyte fluid is at the proper level. Remove battery caps and look inside- the level should be above the battery plates. If your battery is more than four or five years old, consider replacing it for an even more worry-free trip.
Also, ensure that battery terminals and cables are clean and firmly attached to the terminals. If the terminals and cables are covered with "snow", remove the cables from the battery and thoroughly clean the cables and terminals.
(4) Cooling system:
Continual highway driving and hot summer days combined put a big load on the engine cooling system. How many times have you passed some poor guy on the side of the road with the hood up and steam coming out of the radiator? If your radiator has regular green anti-freeze which hasn't been changed for two years, now is the time to do it. If it has extended life anti-freeze go check the recommended change intervals and if the mileage will be reached during the trip, change it now.
(5) Air-conditioning:
Make sure your air conditioning is working well. Run it for a while in each of its modes, checking that the airflow is coming from all vents. If the system takes an unreasonably long time to cool the inside of the car, or the air just doesn't get cold enough, odds are the system needs to be checked for leaks and recharged.
While following this list of checks, be aware of more generalized warning signs as well. Ticking, clunking or knocking noises, a sudden vibration or shimmy, or anything out of the ordinary is probably a symptom of a hidden problem that should be checked before hitting the road.
No matter how thorough your pre-trip preparations, unexpected problems still occur. That's why it's a good idea to have a basic road-kit onboard if something should happen. Jumper cables, flares, a pre-paid cell phone, spare anti-freeze, a gallon of water, three quarts of oil, and some hand tools are all great to have. You can buy a ready-made emergency kit or make up one your own.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin Comes Into Focus as Parts Train's Auto Body Parts Supercharge Every Ford
The Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin is the world's first high-performance sport-utility truck (SUT). We're looking to take Ford performance to an entirely new market segment with the Sport Trac Adrenalin," says Steve Lyons, vice president, Ford Motor Company and president, Ford Division. "Adrenalin is designed to offer a unique combination of performance and functionality.
Adrenalin has combined the best attributes of two breakthrough Ford vehicles - Ford SVT F-150 Lightning and Ford Explorer Sport Trac. It also offers class-leading technologies, including all-wheel drive, a six-speed automatic transmission and Ford's industry-leading AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control(TM). It offers four full-sized doors, four bolstered bucket seats, and a four-foot composite box with 30 percent more cargo capacity than the current Explorer Sport Trac.
"We have a very clear view of what we want to do to retain Ford's leadership in performance vehicles," says Phil Martens group vice president, Product Creation. "This includes looking beyond traditional SVT products for opportunities with unique performance attributes, such as all-wheel-drive." The Sport Trac Adrenalin delivers searing acceleration with its 4.6-liter, 32-valve DOHC V-8 power train. A Roots-type supercharger and water-to-air intercooler boost output to a whopping 390 horsepower and 390 pounds-feet of torque.
It has a six-speed automatic transmission - the first for any SVT vehicle, which has proven capable of heavy-duty use, contributing to the projected 6000-pound towing capacities of the Sport Trac Adrenalin. "In addition to providing sure footing on slick surfaces, there's a performance advantage to all-wheel drive," says Jay O'Connell, SVT chief vehicle engineer. "A longstanding problem with performance trucks was their inability to 'hook up' from a standing start without excessive wheel spin. This AWD system puts power down through all four tires, helping Adrenalin launch with impressive authority."
With a supercharged, 390-horsepower V-8, the first six-speed automatic ever featured in an SVT vehicle and an SVT-tuned fully independent suspension, Adrenalin promises acceleration, agility and utility. Providing an added measure of safety and control during slippery conditions or emergency maneuvers all-wheel-drive system is paired with Ford's industry-exclusive safety system, AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control(TM).
Adrenalin has combined the best attributes of two breakthrough Ford vehicles - Ford SVT F-150 Lightning and Ford Explorer Sport Trac. It also offers class-leading technologies, including all-wheel drive, a six-speed automatic transmission and Ford's industry-leading AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control(TM). It offers four full-sized doors, four bolstered bucket seats, and a four-foot composite box with 30 percent more cargo capacity than the current Explorer Sport Trac.
"We have a very clear view of what we want to do to retain Ford's leadership in performance vehicles," says Phil Martens group vice president, Product Creation. "This includes looking beyond traditional SVT products for opportunities with unique performance attributes, such as all-wheel-drive." The Sport Trac Adrenalin delivers searing acceleration with its 4.6-liter, 32-valve DOHC V-8 power train. A Roots-type supercharger and water-to-air intercooler boost output to a whopping 390 horsepower and 390 pounds-feet of torque.
It has a six-speed automatic transmission - the first for any SVT vehicle, which has proven capable of heavy-duty use, contributing to the projected 6000-pound towing capacities of the Sport Trac Adrenalin. "In addition to providing sure footing on slick surfaces, there's a performance advantage to all-wheel drive," says Jay O'Connell, SVT chief vehicle engineer. "A longstanding problem with performance trucks was their inability to 'hook up' from a standing start without excessive wheel spin. This AWD system puts power down through all four tires, helping Adrenalin launch with impressive authority."
With a supercharged, 390-horsepower V-8, the first six-speed automatic ever featured in an SVT vehicle and an SVT-tuned fully independent suspension, Adrenalin promises acceleration, agility and utility. Providing an added measure of safety and control during slippery conditions or emergency maneuvers all-wheel-drive system is paired with Ford's industry-exclusive safety system, AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control(TM).
Honda Odyssey 2005 Got Highest Rating for IIHS Frontal Crash Test
Backed by Honda's exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure, the 2005 Honda Odyssey was the best choice from its segment in the recently concluded Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) frontal offset crash test.
The IHHS frontal crash tests have the front end of the vehicle hit a deformable barrier at 40 mph. When the vehicle is given a 'good" rating, it means that its front-end structure is able to withstand and manage the crash leaving the occupant compartment largely intact with hardly an intrusion into the driver's space reducing possible injury.
Reinforced frontal frame structures for the ACE body minimizes the probability for cabin intrusion and potential misalignment of the car's energy absorbing safety structure in the event of a collision between vehicles of varied size and height.
The federal government's top rating of Five Stars for both front-seating positions in the frontal impact test performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as a part of its New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) went also to the new 2005 Honda Odyssey.
To keep the company's effort of " Safety for Everyone" Honda Odyssey models is well equipped of the following safety features: dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags, front side airbags with an Occupant Position Detection System, anti-lock brakes, side curtain airbag protection (with rollover sensor) for all three rows, Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control.
Partstrain has all your Honda equipment needs with top of the line Honda car parts, Honda auto body parts, Honda motor parts, Honda racing parts and more. We have top-caliber parts and accessories for the luxurious Honda Accord, the popular Honda Civic, the big and powerful Honda Odyssey, the sporty Honda CR-V and all other famous Honda car models., we guarantee you our product line's reliability, dependability and top performance. Just click on http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/HONDA our convenient and user-friendly online store. Browse on the Honda parts you need in our informative parts catalog and check out any information on our services and deals securely. We guarantee you prompt and hassle-free transactions over the Internet every time you make your purchase. Simply order online or call us for the best Honda components of your choice. Our exceptionally trained customer service representatives are there to serve you.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Honda Environmental Technology Advances with Honda Accord Hybrid and Honda Fuel Cell Stack
Employing Variable Cylinder Management technology (VCM), Honda Accord Hybrid is the first hybrid vehicle to deactivate three of its engine's six cylinders in certain conditions like highway cruising for greater fuel efficiency without affecting its performance.
The new 2005 V6 Accord Hybrid integrates the fuel economy of a four cylinder compact Civic and high-level performance.
Combining VCM with Honda's Integrated Motor Assist hybrid technology, Honda Insight and Civic Hybrid captured four of the top five slots in the EPA 2004 fuel economy ratings. In 2005, Honda-developed fuel cell stack featuring increased performance and fuel efficiency, reduced cost and the capability to start in below freezing temperatures.
Leading the pioneering efforts for the development and application of leading edge environmental technologies including the first Low Emissions (LEV) and Ultra-Low Emissions (ULEV) vehicles and the first commercially certified fuel cell vehicle, Honda now again has proven its innovative ideas.
FCX fuel vehicle powered by the Honda FC stack is the realization of Honda's long held effort of hydrogen-powered vehicles. The Honda FCX then on its launching will be the first and only fuel cell vehicle certified by the EPA and California Air Resources Board for regular commercial use.
Starting and operating a vehicle in cold weather and freezing temperatures is a daunting technical barrier to the mass-market application of fuel cell technology. Honda's answer to this problem is the Fuel Cell stack with its newly developed electrolyte membranes and stamped metal separator structure for improved efficiency, recycle ability, and operation over a greater range of temperatures.
Prior to the FC stack's introduction in the Honda FCX, public road evaluations in the U.S and Japan is on going.
The new 2005 V6 Accord Hybrid integrates the fuel economy of a four cylinder compact Civic and high-level performance.
Combining VCM with Honda's Integrated Motor Assist hybrid technology, Honda Insight and Civic Hybrid captured four of the top five slots in the EPA 2004 fuel economy ratings. In 2005, Honda-developed fuel cell stack featuring increased performance and fuel efficiency, reduced cost and the capability to start in below freezing temperatures.
Leading the pioneering efforts for the development and application of leading edge environmental technologies including the first Low Emissions (LEV) and Ultra-Low Emissions (ULEV) vehicles and the first commercially certified fuel cell vehicle, Honda now again has proven its innovative ideas.
FCX fuel vehicle powered by the Honda FC stack is the realization of Honda's long held effort of hydrogen-powered vehicles. The Honda FCX then on its launching will be the first and only fuel cell vehicle certified by the EPA and California Air Resources Board for regular commercial use.
Starting and operating a vehicle in cold weather and freezing temperatures is a daunting technical barrier to the mass-market application of fuel cell technology. Honda's answer to this problem is the Fuel Cell stack with its newly developed electrolyte membranes and stamped metal separator structure for improved efficiency, recycle ability, and operation over a greater range of temperatures.
Prior to the FC stack's introduction in the Honda FCX, public road evaluations in the U.S and Japan is on going.
Making Our Roads Safer
One thing we must realize is when we make rules to help in aspects of safety the must not slow the flow of traffic or transportation. Such rules should solve both problems, improve flow and improve safety. We must be careful not to make linear laws, which cause more deaths and injuries on our roads and highways.
For instance when improving the roads there are special markings, reflective paints and surface coatings, which work better in inclement weather such as fog, rain or wind storms. Also available to us are incredible new roadway materials, which reduce road noise, help the tires grip better, stop quicker, repel water and do not ice up as easy. Similar techniques have been learned to prevent ice from forming on bridges.
There are many problems with freeways and toll ways in America. First the toll ways in America are clogging the flow of traffic. With the proper systems in place in major metro areas like the Los Angeles, Houston, Boston, Atlanta, Baltimore we can improve safety and traffic flows. Video cameras on the freeways are just one way to do this and a perfect example is the system in Seattle run by Battelle.
There are also ways protect the people, monitor the flow, prevent International terrorist attack using our roadways and infrastructures against us, while alleviating any impending rush hour grid lock. We must use the latest and greatest technologies to our advantage to improve highway safety and cut down on the 40,000 deaths per year. If we could cut that number in half in the next five years that would be truly a gift to America. Too many lives are cut short from deaths on our highways. In the last two wars in Afghanistan and Iraq we had some losses, but we also liberated two nations. On America's highways we lost 2000% more lives and we have nothing to show for it, we do not need to fill up any more cemeteries with our loved ones. Think about it America.
How Can We Prevent Auto Deaths
Even though the DOT reports less death accidents in personal vehicles we still have a long way to go. Over 40,000 people die on our streets and highways every year. We all know someone who has died in a traffic accident. In the United States we have the safest roads in the world and the safest cars too.
What else can we do to bring down that number of 40,000 deaths? That is twenty times higher than the casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan combined and we did not even have a war to kill all those friends and neighbors on our highways. One idea which had been kicked around was to put a little light on the dash boards of cars so when an ambulance, fire truck or police car with lights and sirens was on it would flash on the dash board to alert drivers to pull over. This could very easily be done with a small network sensor in every car and a small light on the dash, which would activate automatically when an emergency vehicle was within one-eighth of a mile away. Clean windows of course help for visibility. Five thousand deaths occur near, around or on the way to accidents, which have already occurred. This includes crashes into emergency vehicles, police officers out of their cars and rear end collisions due to rubber necking and lack of paying attention.
Other ideas which are on their way to a car near you include such things as improved kids car seats: Also innovations in air bags, radars and simple things you can do to protect yourself; If you are involved in an accident you need to be aware of what to do, chances are every driver will sometime be involved in an accident sometime in their lives. If you are wondering what safety features you next car might have check out this list and see if your choice for your next car is safe enough for your family. Lets all buckle up and stay heads up while driving, don't be a statistic and don't cause any. Think about it.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Managing Waste Oil Filters In Your Mobile Oil Change Business
Managing Waste Oil Filters is an issue. First we recommend a simple and easy method of crushing those used oil filter to save space and save our Nations Class II Hazardous Waste Dumps from over filling. We need to be careful with our waste and specifically the amount of waste. Here are the procedures we use when dealing with all those old filters. First; Remove the filter from the engine while warm and immediately drain free-flowing oil. Put the drained oil in your waste oil drum or customized waste oil tank such as the ones we have on our vans, if you are a mobile service this is critical.
Notice the specially made custom 75 gallon waste oil tank. Then Puncture the filter dome. Place the filter on a rack to drain into a waste oil drum or tank at above 60 degrees Fahrenheit for 4 hours. Make sure crushed oil filter goes into the proper storage box, drum.
Our crushed oil filters are stored in a separate, closed metal container labeled "Waste Oil Filters." Always recycle used filters with a scrap metal dealer who has the necessary permit for EPA hazardous class II waste take it to your local Solid Waste District and get a permit for usage of the facilities there. Play it smart, used waste oil filters all too often end up wrapped in a Wal-Mart plastic bag and dumped into the nearest trash can and then dumped in the local landfill, not good. Do it right, help save our environment.
Notice the specially made custom 75 gallon waste oil tank. Then Puncture the filter dome. Place the filter on a rack to drain into a waste oil drum or tank at above 60 degrees Fahrenheit for 4 hours. Make sure crushed oil filter goes into the proper storage box, drum.
Our crushed oil filters are stored in a separate, closed metal container labeled "Waste Oil Filters." Always recycle used filters with a scrap metal dealer who has the necessary permit for EPA hazardous class II waste take it to your local Solid Waste District and get a permit for usage of the facilities there. Play it smart, used waste oil filters all too often end up wrapped in a Wal-Mart plastic bag and dumped into the nearest trash can and then dumped in the local landfill, not good. Do it right, help save our environment.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Hours of Operation - Theory for Auto Shops
Certainly we have seen an increase in older people of retiree age going back to work. So many factors make up this phenomena. 13.2% over 65 still work in some capacity. Why? Well because they can, because we need them and their humble approach to reality, having been through the hard knocks of the past and through tough times, they often do not take things for granted respect customers and have excellent work ethic. This is good. One third or more of these people we visited in Sun City live alone and of course they have time consuming hobbies or par time jobs to stay busy. So then when considering setting hours of your shop one must consider that these individuals need after 5 pm appointments.
It is difficult in these retirement areas to change your own oil, the CC&Rs are outrageous, one person told us he put a flag on his mail box but had to remove it. It seems many of these 65 and older have joined the HOA as their contribution and sit in committees and act like government bureaucrats making stupid rules to keep everything sterile and unexciting like the socialist country we are becoming, with no one taking responsibility for anything and everyone suing each other for looking cross eyed?
The 13.2% of over 65 age still working is an increase over the last five years of 50%. That is a significant trend that was predicted no less by the Yanklevich Group, and they are correct. The trend, well it is accelerating after many have lost their pension valuations to the 10 trillion lost in the stock market. Yes it will return, but if they take a draw while it is low they decrease their base money and the growth of the future will be severally hurt. How serious is this. Well right now the dollar is weak and there are more going to be employed making stuff. The Europeans are debt borrowing in a few countries and that is temporarily causing some inflation which will come back, then the dollar will have some inflation and right itself as a stronger currency in a few years and the Older crowd will have some of their nest egg back if they have not spent it all. But the under funded pensions are going to be the cog in the wheel and what we saw with those who lost pensions with Global Crossing, Enron, WorldCom is nothing. We are talking a huge scale. And we are talking all the Blue Chips. These people will need jobs and maybe you might hire them for your Oil Change Shop, you can trust them no doubt, they are not asking for a hand out and will put in an honest days work, unlike some of the work ethic challenged current work force.
Now then with all this said and the trend continuing we see the problem of shop hours, These older folks which have been bread and butter to our industry for so many years will not be filling up you bays at 10 am any longer. People without jobs are coming less frequently due to not enough money to pay to change their oil and therefore prolong oil change interval out of necessity of their pocketbook, not the special oil additives or the G-4 guidelines or even the dealership changing oil for free. You might think about re-adjusting your hours of operation to maximize the usage of your facility to make sure you are getting the 13.2% of the older market you maybe missing right now. There are many ways to do this, some folks like to work late, some early. Look at your crews and scheduling and busy times, re-adjust and add an hour or two to your operation hours for a few weeks, see what happens?
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Oil Change Business is Changing Indeed
Well let's see GF-3 got passed when no one could work out the details, isn't it typical when you form a committee and spend hours putting into minutes what you could have done in seconds as an entrepreneur that the results are insured in advance? Dismal failure, but no matter let's move forward anyway, isn't that what bureaucracies do?
So GF-4 should be completed sometime in 2004-2005? They say, but who is they?
Whoever wants to say they have a say, so far that is just about everyone. I cannot believe how much I have read on this subject from Oil Company PR to EPA Bureaucracy to Manufacturers, dealers, Industry Rags. My God already, no wonder the UN can't do their job, look how many people have to agree on something, much more than this GF-4 automobile oil standards thing.
But alas my prediction?
It will never happen and GF-5 in 2006 will take place and the Pope mobile might finally get an oil change between leaders.
What about the .10 designation? Will it be a dead issue and .08 won't make the liberals happy, and us operators will be forced to higher costs and less frequency at .05, manufacturers will charge extra, warranties will be at issue the EPA will be fining customers, smog checks will be eliminating cars and Quick Lubes will be consolidated by Auto Dealerships run by Wayne Hiezenga, Roger Penske, Sonic Automotive and others, while the Manufacturers will say, we have to because of the EPA and Oil Companies will have to add the additives for far of market share reduction. Of course the political clout between Manufacturers, remembering; 'What is good for GM is good for America' and the Oil Companies with the steamroller will turn this thing into the biggest non-event you have ever seen. But alas, Chaos mean opportunity.
Some do not care who they work with for oil or filters, etc. or what the law is either way they will align themselves with strength and with the winners. If each manufacturer requests different blends many quick lubes will be forced to have several types of these different blends and thus their ROI will change, sure they will have the $75K ITC situation with the new tax law to buy more above ground steel tanks for the other a multitude of required oils, but some vehicle types will not be able to be serviced, and many of those will have free oil changes at the dealerships, meaning all the hoses, belts, wiper blades, air cleaners, fuel filters, tire rotations, etc will be done there.
So GF-4 should be completed sometime in 2004-2005? They say, but who is they?
Whoever wants to say they have a say, so far that is just about everyone. I cannot believe how much I have read on this subject from Oil Company PR to EPA Bureaucracy to Manufacturers, dealers, Industry Rags. My God already, no wonder the UN can't do their job, look how many people have to agree on something, much more than this GF-4 automobile oil standards thing.
But alas my prediction?
It will never happen and GF-5 in 2006 will take place and the Pope mobile might finally get an oil change between leaders.
What about the .10 designation? Will it be a dead issue and .08 won't make the liberals happy, and us operators will be forced to higher costs and less frequency at .05, manufacturers will charge extra, warranties will be at issue the EPA will be fining customers, smog checks will be eliminating cars and Quick Lubes will be consolidated by Auto Dealerships run by Wayne Hiezenga, Roger Penske, Sonic Automotive and others, while the Manufacturers will say, we have to because of the EPA and Oil Companies will have to add the additives for far of market share reduction. Of course the political clout between Manufacturers, remembering; 'What is good for GM is good for America' and the Oil Companies with the steamroller will turn this thing into the biggest non-event you have ever seen. But alas, Chaos mean opportunity.
Some do not care who they work with for oil or filters, etc. or what the law is either way they will align themselves with strength and with the winners. If each manufacturer requests different blends many quick lubes will be forced to have several types of these different blends and thus their ROI will change, sure they will have the $75K ITC situation with the new tax law to buy more above ground steel tanks for the other a multitude of required oils, but some vehicle types will not be able to be serviced, and many of those will have free oil changes at the dealerships, meaning all the hoses, belts, wiper blades, air cleaners, fuel filters, tire rotations, etc will be done there.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Mobile Oil Change Business and Company Comparisons
We have been reviewing articles in Oil Lube Magazines, Newsletters, ASO, ASE, Auto Mechanic and many other periodicals on the assessments and profitability of mobile oil change units. We believe that many of the surveyed may have misrepresented their actual results, however have brought to you some of the findings which have been written about in these comparison surveys and reports. Even though the surveys and periodicals have much credibility, I believe that the studied set of operators have been to few in numbers to be accurate and even one of the magazines admitted that the survey was plus or minus 5% at best.
We believe 15% although are rather miffed at the fact that no one really seems to know the real results of such efforts by individual operators. In the survey in one newspaper in the Industry they found that only ten percent of the mobile oil change units to be franchised and 90% independent operators. The same publication said that the average radius of service was 51 miles and had at least 21 fixed site operators in their market which was an increase from previous studies. The average ticket price was said to be $39.00 and average cost of goods sold was $8.40. Average company had 1.6 vans. Vans were the most popular units used about 52% of the time, bobtail trucks 10% of the time and pick-ups 5% of the time. An average of 4.4 vehicles per stop were said to be serviced. 70% of the companies serviced mostly fleets. We have not found this to be the case in our actual ride along studies with competitors and team members; http://www.OilChangeGuys.com
The average company serviced 12.2 cars or units as they called them each day. Average lube only price was $28.22 only $4.00 more than Jiffy Lube. Insurance costs, which we did concur with is an average of $1,946.00 up from previous years as we also have found. Average cost for a Semi truck lube only was $85.61, which seems a little low and quite a deal for trucking companies and companies with lots of units such as cement companies. Number one type of advertising was word of mouth and vehicle signage. Yellow Pages was the third. 56% of the companies surveyed in one publication did off road heavy equipment. 32% did some marine or boats. Over 60% had done generators although few on a regular basis. 40% claimed they made 100K last year, 33% said they did over 50K anf 27% said under 50K.
We are relatively uncertain about these numbers in particular, way to vague and questionable as per our research, perhaps they are true. 66.5% of respondents said they did School Bus or tour bus oil changing and serviced their fleets. Average pay was fair at $11.44 for workers, higher than Jiffy Lube and all Wal-Mart Stores. The cost to set up a van unit was an average of $8,941.00 we feel this is about right considering the under equipped units that we had seen previously. Operators said their breakeven point on average was 6.3 units. We also questioned this and think it to be a little higher if everyone looks at all costs and averages them over the number of days worked and also needing to be taken into consideration were the real wear and tear depreciation that exists. One recent consultant to our team said that if one counts all costs that these numbers are apparently to low for break even number of units and how many days did they really work and how many days did they average and what climate are they in? Some areas cannot work due to weather certain times of the year.
We believe 15% although are rather miffed at the fact that no one really seems to know the real results of such efforts by individual operators. In the survey in one newspaper in the Industry they found that only ten percent of the mobile oil change units to be franchised and 90% independent operators. The same publication said that the average radius of service was 51 miles and had at least 21 fixed site operators in their market which was an increase from previous studies. The average ticket price was said to be $39.00 and average cost of goods sold was $8.40. Average company had 1.6 vans. Vans were the most popular units used about 52% of the time, bobtail trucks 10% of the time and pick-ups 5% of the time. An average of 4.4 vehicles per stop were said to be serviced. 70% of the companies serviced mostly fleets. We have not found this to be the case in our actual ride along studies with competitors and team members; http://www.OilChangeGuys.com
The average company serviced 12.2 cars or units as they called them each day. Average lube only price was $28.22 only $4.00 more than Jiffy Lube. Insurance costs, which we did concur with is an average of $1,946.00 up from previous years as we also have found. Average cost for a Semi truck lube only was $85.61, which seems a little low and quite a deal for trucking companies and companies with lots of units such as cement companies. Number one type of advertising was word of mouth and vehicle signage. Yellow Pages was the third. 56% of the companies surveyed in one publication did off road heavy equipment. 32% did some marine or boats. Over 60% had done generators although few on a regular basis. 40% claimed they made 100K last year, 33% said they did over 50K anf 27% said under 50K.
We are relatively uncertain about these numbers in particular, way to vague and questionable as per our research, perhaps they are true. 66.5% of respondents said they did School Bus or tour bus oil changing and serviced their fleets. Average pay was fair at $11.44 for workers, higher than Jiffy Lube and all Wal-Mart Stores. The cost to set up a van unit was an average of $8,941.00 we feel this is about right considering the under equipped units that we had seen previously. Operators said their breakeven point on average was 6.3 units. We also questioned this and think it to be a little higher if everyone looks at all costs and averages them over the number of days worked and also needing to be taken into consideration were the real wear and tear depreciation that exists. One recent consultant to our team said that if one counts all costs that these numbers are apparently to low for break even number of units and how many days did they really work and how many days did they average and what climate are they in? Some areas cannot work due to weather certain times of the year.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Car Wash and Wax: Ways to Save Yourself Time and Money With the Right Products
Back in the day, there was no such thing as an all-in-one car wash and car wax product. If you wanted to wash and wax your car, you had to have a bucketful of items and special cloths handy to do so. Luckily, cleaning and waxing a vehicle is no longer the time-consuming endeavor that it once were. Nowadays, you may clean and gloss your vehicle in one fell swoop, thanks to waterless car cleaning products that also contain wax.
Waterless car wash products both wash and polish your car and don't need using water. These products break down and move dirt and grime in the surface of your vehicle. All you need to do is spray that solution on the car, rub it in a round movement with a terry cloth to remove dirt, and then buff the haze this is left with a microfiber cloth. Not only will this kind of car wash/wax conserve you 20 to 50 gallons of water per vehicle, it will also save you time and money.
Tips for Choosing a Waterless Car Wash Products
There are many types of waterless car detailing items in the market, but not all of them are designed alike. Here are some things to consider if you're planning to purchase car cleaning products:
Active Ingredients. What ingredients does the item contain? Some waterless washes contain carnauba wax others contain clay, and others are polish-based. The best quality car wash/wax solutions generally possess carnauba wax as an active component. Carnauba wax is a vegetable fat extracted from a Brazilian palm tree.
Price and Value. Typically, a can of waterless wash and wax costs $19. 99 and possesses 17. 50 oz, but amounts differ depending on what brand name you purchase. In addition, make sure if the car wash comes in a value pack that includes free gifts and whether discounts are available if you order in wholesale.
Convenience. Is the auto detailing product simple to apply and scrub off? Make certain the spray end of the waterless wash stays in position when you use it. Additionally, the formula must also be simple to wipe off the surface of your car, so you don't turn out damaging your vehicle.
Cobble Stone Auto spa provides extra services like window tints, and oil changes. For more details on our services visit our website at www.cobblestoneautospa.com
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
The Eye Witness To Your Getting Creamed
Thirty four years ago, in a book I wrote and was published, entitled, How To Settle Your Own Insurance Claim, I stated: "An eye witness can make or break your case. If you've been able to keep your wits about you the first thing you should do, immediately after impact has occurred, is to find somebody who observed it. After having spotted such a person, don't be bashful. Go right over to them and ask if they saw the accident ? If they did, jot down their name, address and telephone number. Should they drive away before you can zero in on them, make note of their motor vehicle's registration number so you can later obtain their name through the department of motor vehicle office."
What I wrote, over thirty years ago, remains true today. (As a matter of fact, when it comes to insurance claims, little has changed over he past sixty years)! Companies like Rock Solid Insurance Corporation are still raising rates into the stratosphere while crying in their suds about all the money claims are costing them and those employed by them are still taking advantage of every motor vehicle accident victim they can sink their claws into.
A WITNESS CAN BE CRUCIAL: When you've been smashed into one of the most important sources of help - - when it comes to digging up information and assembling a record of the accident - - is the eye witness to that impact, with their accounts and recollections as to what happened. Try to secure a detailed written statement (or tape recorded or maybe even a video statement) from them. That "witness person" could be a passenger in your own or other vehicles, pedestrians, onlookers and bystanders at the scene of the accident, and/or driver's of other motor vehicle's who were not directly involve in the accident.
UTILIZING THE WITNESS: How do you actually go about the task of securing the relevant witnesses, testimonies and cooperation? To begin with, know this: It's important that you get to a witness first - - before that a fast talking adjuster corners them and uses his expertise to twist the facts. By moving quickly you stand a good chance of getting the witness committed to your account of the events and/or to come down on your side of the case. If they do that's money in the bank!
You should contact each witness of the accident (identified from the list of persons you compiled at the time of the accident - - or perhaps even discovered in the police report) and talk to them about what they saw, or know, concerning the accident. The ideal procedure is to get them to write out, in detail, what they observed, in their own words. If they're not willing (or able) to do this, then write their statement yourself (or merely jot down on a pad) what each witness tells you, then have them sign and date it. Try to capture their recollections, impressions and observations of what happened.
Upon completing the interview of each witness, and taking his (or her) statement, ask that individual to read it. When they're finished have them sign and date it, with their home address and phone number included. (If the statement is more than one page have them initial and date the bottom of each page, then ask them to apply their full and complete signature at the very end.)
You should make a copy of what they signed and send it to them. That's so they'll know exactly what they told you - - if, later on down the road, when the adjuster try's to hustle and con them into stating something differently - - they'll be able to stick to their guns because they'll have written proof to show that adjuster exactly what they told you.
LOCATING A MISSING WITNESS: You may be unable to directly contact or locate the whereabouts of a witness whose name, home address or phone number you have obtained. (The witness may have moved). Here are two helpful steps you can take to locate a witness:
1. Send a "Certified" or "Registered" letter to that witness, addressed to his (or her) last known address with the "Return Receipt Requested" plus the "Address Only" box checked off. This way, if you receive back from the post office the return receipt signed by the witness, or executed by the post office, you should find, fully entered therein, the current address of the witness.
2. If you have their full name and address and you're comfortable surfing through cyber-space there are dozens of ways to locate a person via your computer. Should you not be wise to the ways of the internet find somebody to help you who is.
IN SUMMARY: I spent most of my life investigating motor vehicle accidents. First as I worked my way through college as a Private Investigator, specifically assigned to motor vehicle accidents, next as a Special Investigator in the United States Navy, covering major military motor vehicle accidents in the mid-west, and then, after my naval daze, over thirty years as a Claims Adjuster, Supervisor, Manager and Trial Assistant. I know, from personal experience, a witness to a motor vehicle accident can be invaluable when it comes to making your case. Witnesses may be able to describe things in an accident that confirm what you know happened, thus backing up your side of the story. They may also provide you with information you were not aware of, which indicates how the other operator was at fault. A witness may have heard a verbal remark that someone other than you was at fault. Even a witness, who did not actually see your motor vehicle get crashed into, may have observed you, soon after impact, and confirm the pain and discomfort you were experiencing. A signed statement handed to Adjuster Hard-Nose, taken from somebody who did not know you personally, detailing the suffering you were enduring at the scene, right after you were bashed into, is even more money in the bank!
What I wrote, over thirty years ago, remains true today. (As a matter of fact, when it comes to insurance claims, little has changed over he past sixty years)! Companies like Rock Solid Insurance Corporation are still raising rates into the stratosphere while crying in their suds about all the money claims are costing them and those employed by them are still taking advantage of every motor vehicle accident victim they can sink their claws into.
A WITNESS CAN BE CRUCIAL: When you've been smashed into one of the most important sources of help - - when it comes to digging up information and assembling a record of the accident - - is the eye witness to that impact, with their accounts and recollections as to what happened. Try to secure a detailed written statement (or tape recorded or maybe even a video statement) from them. That "witness person" could be a passenger in your own or other vehicles, pedestrians, onlookers and bystanders at the scene of the accident, and/or driver's of other motor vehicle's who were not directly involve in the accident.
UTILIZING THE WITNESS: How do you actually go about the task of securing the relevant witnesses, testimonies and cooperation? To begin with, know this: It's important that you get to a witness first - - before that a fast talking adjuster corners them and uses his expertise to twist the facts. By moving quickly you stand a good chance of getting the witness committed to your account of the events and/or to come down on your side of the case. If they do that's money in the bank!
You should contact each witness of the accident (identified from the list of persons you compiled at the time of the accident - - or perhaps even discovered in the police report) and talk to them about what they saw, or know, concerning the accident. The ideal procedure is to get them to write out, in detail, what they observed, in their own words. If they're not willing (or able) to do this, then write their statement yourself (or merely jot down on a pad) what each witness tells you, then have them sign and date it. Try to capture their recollections, impressions and observations of what happened.
Upon completing the interview of each witness, and taking his (or her) statement, ask that individual to read it. When they're finished have them sign and date it, with their home address and phone number included. (If the statement is more than one page have them initial and date the bottom of each page, then ask them to apply their full and complete signature at the very end.)
You should make a copy of what they signed and send it to them. That's so they'll know exactly what they told you - - if, later on down the road, when the adjuster try's to hustle and con them into stating something differently - - they'll be able to stick to their guns because they'll have written proof to show that adjuster exactly what they told you.
LOCATING A MISSING WITNESS: You may be unable to directly contact or locate the whereabouts of a witness whose name, home address or phone number you have obtained. (The witness may have moved). Here are two helpful steps you can take to locate a witness:
1. Send a "Certified" or "Registered" letter to that witness, addressed to his (or her) last known address with the "Return Receipt Requested" plus the "Address Only" box checked off. This way, if you receive back from the post office the return receipt signed by the witness, or executed by the post office, you should find, fully entered therein, the current address of the witness.
2. If you have their full name and address and you're comfortable surfing through cyber-space there are dozens of ways to locate a person via your computer. Should you not be wise to the ways of the internet find somebody to help you who is.
IN SUMMARY: I spent most of my life investigating motor vehicle accidents. First as I worked my way through college as a Private Investigator, specifically assigned to motor vehicle accidents, next as a Special Investigator in the United States Navy, covering major military motor vehicle accidents in the mid-west, and then, after my naval daze, over thirty years as a Claims Adjuster, Supervisor, Manager and Trial Assistant. I know, from personal experience, a witness to a motor vehicle accident can be invaluable when it comes to making your case. Witnesses may be able to describe things in an accident that confirm what you know happened, thus backing up your side of the story. They may also provide you with information you were not aware of, which indicates how the other operator was at fault. A witness may have heard a verbal remark that someone other than you was at fault. Even a witness, who did not actually see your motor vehicle get crashed into, may have observed you, soon after impact, and confirm the pain and discomfort you were experiencing. A signed statement handed to Adjuster Hard-Nose, taken from somebody who did not know you personally, detailing the suffering you were enduring at the scene, right after you were bashed into, is even more money in the bank!
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