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.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
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.
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