Automobile

The Basics on Engine Care

Animated scheme of a four stroke internal comb...

Wondering how to keep your engine in top condition? Here are the basics on keeping your engine happy.

Change the oil. Keeping your car in good repair means changing the oil once a year or at least every 7,500 miles. Dirty oil will not allow your engine to run at its prime, wearing it down and reducing its efficiency. You should also be aware of the differences in oil. One of the biggest things to decide is if you are going to use synthetic oil or not. Be aware that whatever type of oil you begin to use, you should use it consistently. This is because synthetic oil not only runs through your engine but can clean it better than regular oil. However, switching to synthetic off of regular may actually cause the oil to come off of the parts of the engine, temporarily reducing its effectiveness. While some cars do not recommend synthetic oil, other cars do. One type is more expensive, but it may last you longer than other types, or may be better for your engine.

Give your car a check-up. Getting your car looked over every now and then is always a good idea, and you can remember to do it easily when you are getting your oil changed. This can make sure nothing goes wrong in your car, and that you catch any problems. Also be sure to look at the expected lifetime of the belts in your car, and it is also a good idea to check all of the car’s fluids, such as the coolant.

Upgrade your gasoline. This doesn’t mean that you have to pay for premium gasoline instead of regular unleaded, however. Different gas stations use a variety of additives to help with starting your car, getting cleaner emissions and better gas mileage. While it may cost a few pennies more per gallon, certain gasoline may give you better mileage in the long run. You can discover what gas stations give your car the best gas mileage by tracking the mileage for each one, and then comparing them.

Filed Under: General Auto Tagged With: Automobile, Engine, Fuel efficiency

Cleaning Your Car for A Better Ride

A panoramic windshield on a 1959 Edsel Corsair...

Image via Wikipedia

If you are looking for ways to enjoy driving your car more, try these tips to increase your satisfaction for the car you drive.

Vacuum the car. Cleaning your car’s carpet will keep your car looking new and fresh. It will prevent crumbs or other from burrowing into the carpet, making it look dirty and matted. Without constant cleaning, the carpet in your car can quickly make your car look like it needs replacing. Cleaning your car often will also reduce any unwanted smells from building up, making it a car that you want to drive around in.

Wash the windows. Not only will a car with clean windows look nicer, but it is safer as well, as it increasing visibility. The key is to not only wash the outside of your car, but to carefully clean the inside of your windows and windshield. This is particularly important for the windshield, as a dirty windshield can cause the headlights from oncoming cars to glare, significantly reducing how well you can see the road. Prevent this problem and give yourself a nicer car by washing the inside of your windows.

Organize. Keeping your car from being cluttered is a great way to improve your daily car trips, as clutter can make you feel claustrophobic, and the rattling of loose items while you drive can be both irritating and distracting. A good place to begin is getting a basket or box that you keep in the trunk. You can fill this box with whatever you always keep in your car, such as jumper cables, an ice or snow brush, and a football or baseball. This allows you to keep these things in your car, but prevents them from cluttering your seats, floor space, and trunk space, as well as keeps them from bumping around and distracting you while you drive.

Wipe down the interior. Taking a disinfectant disposable wipe and rubbing down your dashboard can remove any grime, dirt or dust that has gathered, giving you a shinier car. These disposable wipes also have a good, clean smell, making your drive even better.

Filed Under: Selling Cars Tagged With: Automobile, Vehicle insurance, Windshield

Purchasing used automobiles

: Image via Wikipedia

In the current economy purchasing a used vehicle is on the rise. Price is always a considering factor when buying a vehicle, but also choosing the model that fits the consumers needs is taken into consideration. The options are endless, but knowing the steps to be a smart consumer is crucial.

Some recommendations to keep in mind when purchasing any auto, new or used, is checking the value through the NADA. (National Automobile Dealers Association) The NADA has a plethora of information on new and used car prices, reviews, safety ratings, car comparisons and much more. As soon as the vehicle is driven off the lot it begins to depreciate in value so it is important to be informed.

In addition, it is beneficial to make sure to verify that there is an extended auto warranty available in case an issue was overlooked during the inspection process. Vehicle history reports are another useful tool for consumers to utilize to inform them if the vehicle has ever been damaged in a wreck in the past. The only item needed to complete this check is the vehicles VIN number.

Through all the steps that a buyer will take in buying a used car, one that is imperative to complete is the used vehicle inspection. This inspection will reveal if there are hidden issues that the buyer may not directly see or experience during the test-driving of the auto. Generally most dealers will allow the buyer to have the auto inspected by a shop of the buyerâ€™s choice. There is a cost involved with the inspection, but in the long run, it could save hundreds of dollars in repairs.

Lastly, it is good advise to never sign an as is document at a car dealership. To cover yourself as a consumer, there should be at least a 30-90 day warranty.

Filed Under: Used Cars Tagged With: automakers, Automobile, Car dealership, National Automobile Dealers Association, United States, Used car, Vehicle, Vehicle Identification Number

Sedans for 2010

When looking for a vehicle for you and your family, many are looking for a fuel-efficient model. There have been different makes and models introduced over the years, but the one that still is one of the top contenders is the Sedan.
This is the traditional American value choice automobile. The sedans available can range from fuel-efficient subcompacts to the luxury sedans. The options are made to fit whatever needs you are currently looking for. A basic sedan is defined as a car with four doors, full body, and conventional trunk.
There are sedans on the market that are priced under the $15,000 mark. If customers are looking for the economical and spacious choice; Honda has two models that are currently high on the buyers guide for 2010. The Honda Fit has versatility, it is very fuel-efficient, and you can find most models that have above average standards when it comes to the equipment that is offered for the Honda Fit.
Another option is the Honda Elantra. This vehicle is larger in capacity, it is priced a fraction lower, it also maximizes the fuel economy, and best of all it offers a better warranty to potential consumers.
If you looking for a sedan under the $20,000 mark, a good option can be a Suzuki Kizashi, these are brand new for the market in 2010. They are priced in the category of a mid-sized sedan, and it is a fraction smaller than its competitors. The various equipment options are endless. Some of them can be all wheel drive, dual-zone climate control, keyless start entry, and many more.
Another choice is the Ford Fusion. Again, this option will vary according to your needs and price preference. This model has been redesigned for 2010, and the well-optioned S model is available for those wanting a sportier look. It is detailed sharper on the outside, and has a higher quality interior as well.

Filed Under: New Cars Tagged With: Automobile, Ford Fusion, Fuel efficiency, Honda, Honda Fit, Hyundai Elantra, Sedan, Suzuki Kizashi

Sticker Shock-looking at fuel costs

: Image via Wikipedia

What are consumers looking for on a car sticker when it comes to fuel efficiency? A poll that was recently conducted by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and the DOT (Department of Transportation) sheds some light on that particular question.
The top three, according to the poll, were fuel economy ratings, annual fuel costs, and fuel economy letter grade. Surprisingly the annual fuel costs was the most important, and the others followed meagerly behind.
The EPA and DOT conducted their survey according to the redesigned vehicles coming up, and the stickers that will be placed in the window of them on a car dealers lot. The EPA estimates that these new stickers will begin to be displayed on vehicles by the year 20112.
More than 55% of the consumers polled believed that fuel efficiency per city, highway, and combined miles per gallon (mpg) was a mandatory number that they looked for when choosing a vehicle.
Secondly was the annual fuel cost. A mere 15% of the consumers polled looked at this particular number. Some believe that if you are purchasing a $10,000 car that the annual fuel costs of $2,000 (for example) should be put on the sticker as well. Also, another surprising fact those that found this aspect important also would rather see monthly estimated fuel costs instead of annually. The EPA estimates that to fuel a vehicle for 5 years, the cost be around $10,000. Looking at those numbers definitely put a different focus than the normal things that potential buyers look for.
When it came to the letter grades on the sticker, most consumers didnt really take it into account when making a decision. From those consumers polled, it was an overall consensus that the letter grade aspect was confusing to them.
Lastly, surprisingly the least worried about point was greenhouse emission. Most customers polled didnt even take into account the environment or the pollution issue

Filed Under: Car Prices Tagged With: Automobile, Fuel economy in automobiles, Fuel efficiency, Grade (education), Plug-in hybrid, United States Department of Transportation, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Vehicle

Basic Auto Safety Checks

How a car functions and operates takes a variety of systems. Some of the basic systems require minimal maintenance, which a visual inspection is sufficient.

To assure the safety of the driver and the passengers, there are routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, change burnt out bulbs, or replacing worn out belts. Safety checks are important for assessing any possible future malfunctions with the vehicle that could possibly cause system failures.

Some basic safety inspection tests that individuals can do themselves (if comfortable) are some of the following:

Checking all fluid levels. Make sure the automobile is off at time of check. One of the most common is checking the engine oil level. Use the dipstick in the engine oil compartment, which typically has a yellow handle. Displayed on the stick will be two level markers, which indicate the upper and lower level. If it displays oil level in between markers that is acceptable. Below that mark would indicate a need to replenish the oil.

â€¢ A standardized list of basic fluids that should be periodically checked is: engine coolant, oil, transmission fluid, windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. (If applicable)

Inspecting the condition of the automobiles tires. The tires are responsible for supporting the braking, traction and steering of a vehicle. Theyre also a shock absorber when encountering uneven terrain or bumps in the road. It is recommended to maintain a certain amount of tire pressure at all times. This is generally disclosed on the inside panel of the vehicle. Lastly, it is also necessary to have the tires rotated at certain time increments to get the most wear from them. The time increments generally depend on the vehicles use in driving conditions, and inflation.

Safety for your family is essential. If you have questions or concerns contact your local dealer for information.

Filed Under: General Auto Tagged With: Automobile, Brake fluid, Hydraulic fluid, Motor oil, Power steering, Tire, Vehicle, Windshield washer fluid

Maintenance car tips

: Image via Wikipedia

Some recent research showed that car owners are keeping their autos longer than they were two years ago due to the slumping economy. More cars are being driven to the 75,000-mile mark, and even hitting the 100,000 mark as well.
Here are some of the estimated cost schedules that the data that was revealed:
Repairs up to 75,000 miles for a Toyota Camry around $654, Honda Accord around $654, and a Chevrolet Impala $704.
Maintenance 75,000 miles at and over for a Toyota Camry estimated $2030, Honda Accord estimated $1180, and Chevrolet Impala estimated $997.
Maintenance to 100,000 miles Toyota Camry at $2821, Honda Accord at $1177, and Chevrolet Impala at $1740.

Surprisingly the Chevrolet Impala cost an estimated 51% less in maintenance than the top selling Toyota Camry. Additionally, up to 100,000 miles the Altima was estimated at 47% less than the Camry. This equated out to approximately a little more than a penny a mile. **All cars and estimated numbers were pulled at random**

With economic times and busy lifestyles maintenance is pushed further down the to do list for the typical every 3000 mile oil changes, tire rotations and so on. To get the most mileage out of your vehicle it is important to try and stay on top on the maintenance and repairs. If not, a simple fix can turn into a thousand dollar fix rather than a hundred dollar problem.

Each month it is recommended to check the oil level, hoses, belts, tire pressure, coolant, air filters, and inspect for worn tread on the tires. At the three-month mark it is recommended to inspect the oil/oil filter, windshield washer fluid, battery, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and check basic cables.

If you do not feel comfortable checking these items take them to a local dealer and they will help you. You also have the option to check the owners manual, and if that is missing call the manufacturer to direct you on how to replace it.

Filed Under: Used Cars Tagged With: Automobile, Chevrolet Impala, Honda, Honda Accord, Honda CR-V, Nissan Altima, Toyota, Toyota Camry

ABS system functions

: Image via Wikipedia

Anti-lock brake systems are an innovative automotive advance with the safety of the drivers in mind. Anti-lock brake systems are more often referred to as the ABS system.
There is more than one kind of ABS currently on the market. The first is the four-wheel system, this is found in most cars and minivans. This specific kind are to keep all four wheels from locking up at the same time when driving.
The other is the rear wheel drive. This is designed with certain pickups, vans and SUVâ€™s (sport utility vehicle) in mind. The rear wheel drive keeps the vehicle from spinning out of control during braking.
The ABS is to assist when the brakes lock up on a slippery surface (i.e. Icy road), the drivers tendency is to slam on the brakes, which leads to losing traction control, and the vehicle will begin to spin. The ABS keeps the wheels from locking up, and the car wheels continue to move in hopes the drivers will negotiate themselves out of the spin.
How does the ABS function? Two words. Traction Control. The following are the components that make up the traction control:
Sensors-each wheel has a sensor on it for when the wheels lock up.
Valves- each ABS has valves that open and close to release the pressure.
Pumps- pressure is released, and the pump builds up the pressure again.
Controller- this is the brains of the ABS. The controller runs the entire ABS system.
In other words, a vehicle without an ABS, the driver is responsible to pump the brakes while trying to maintain control of the vehicle. A vehicle that has ABS, the system pumps the brakes for you while you concentrate on getting the car safely under control. Ultimately, the controller will regulate the pressure that the ABS needs depending on the current road conditions.

Filed Under: New Cars Tagged With: ABS, Anti-lock braking system, Automobile, Automobile layout, Brake, Sport utility vehicle, Traction control system, Vehicle

Pricing and the MSRP

Do you want to understand what goes into the pricing of purchasing a car important to you? MSRP is the manufacturers suggested retail price, and that is what you as the consumer sees stated on each model car on the lot. The pricing can change year to year, and depending on the supply and demand of the vehicle can change within the same year. MSRP is also known as the sticker price.
As you can see the S stands for suggested, which means that the dealer is free to charge more or less since it is a suggested amount from the manufacturer. There are other fees that are not always listed on the sticker price. There are transport fees, and preparation fees that are in addition to the price of the vehicle. However, even though they do not show on the sticker price, does not mean that you will not pay for them in the final pricing of the vehicle.
There is also what is called invoice price. Car dealerships are independent businesses, so they have the autonomy to choose how the sale of each vehicle on their lot is handled. All dealers pay the same price to the manufacturer for the models that they choose to bring to their lots.
The dealer profit margin is the difference between the MSRP and the invoice price. If they sell it at sticker price it is minus the costs, charges and rebates. Dealers generally absorb the cost of national or regional advertising fees, so those monies have to be accounted for somewhere. The interest on loans is where the monies come from to be able to purchase vehicles from the manufacturers.
Sometimes the manufacturer will give incentives to the dealers with special fees; bonuses and rebates that will encourage them to sell those vehicles, and the dealer can pass on the savings to the customer if they so choose.

Filed Under: Car Prices Tagged With: Automobile, Business and Economy, Canada, Car dealership, Pricing, Sales, Suggested retail price, Vehicle

Teenagers, Parents and buying a car

: Image via Wikipedia

Making the decision to purchase a vehicle for a teenager can be a stressful time for parents trying to make the right choice. As we know most teenagers find it hard to come to an agreement when it comes to what is best, so finding a vehicle that both parents and teenager agree to is a task.
A teenager looking to get their first car are looking for things such as the sporty car style, the performance, size capacity for their friends, and the accessibility. Boys typically focus more on the performance wanting a fast car, while girls look for other features that have to do with how they look in the vehicle of choice.
The parent is looking for a car that is safe, reliable, dependable and inexpensive. They also look at low maintenance cost along with lower insurance rates. However, most of the talks will come down to cost. From there it becomes a question of going with a used car or a new one.
An older car is lower cost, inexpensive repairs, but the downside is the worry of unreliability, and fewer safety features due to the age of the vehicle. The other downfall is that most older vehicles are sold as is with no warranty. That can lead to a massive expense if you get a vehicle that has big problems that you cannot see visually or experience during the test drive.
With a brand new car you are looking at more of an expense to purchase, but you are also getting the latest safety features, and the manufacturers warranty that covers bumper to bumper sometimes between 3-5 years. Another added bonus is the newer models of cars tend to be more fuel-efficient as well, and that is important to parents that are supporting those teenagers.
Here are just a few of the recommended cars for teenagers: Honda Civic, Toyota Scion, Honda Fit or Toyota Corolla.

Filed Under: Tips for Buying a Car Tagged With: Automobile, Honda, Honda Civic, Honda Fit, Scion, Toyota, Toyota Corolla, Vehicle