It is said that the best road trip vehicles are SUVs. It cleverly combines the passenger-carrying space with the towing capacity of a pickup truck. But how do you choose the best from the cream-of-the-crop?
After the traumatic 2006 sales fall, automakers are all aimed at putting their best foot forward to get the larger slice of the auto market. The Cadillac Escalade is now being challenged by the first full-size SUV of Mercedes. The latter is a seven-seat SUV with upscale auto features that include air suspension and adjustable ride height. The vehicle can be lowered automatically at speed for a more capable ride.
According to critics in the industry, the overhauled Cadillac Escalade, which was introduced just last year, has the nicest interior among the vehicles in the United States. The Cadillac Escalade uses all-aluminum 6.2 L Vortec V8 mated to Cadillac cold air intake. The vehicle also featured the new six-speed 6L80 automatic transmission and conventional five-link suspension to improve its performance and ride.
Mercedes Benz was quick to follow Cadillac with the plush, full-size GL-Class SUV which is priced at $53,000. Mercedes recorded 19,000 sales of the vehicle in 2006. The new Mercedes pride radiates improved performance than that of the R-Class. The GL and the Escalade are among the best SUVs of 2007. However, in the fourth season of this year, mighty rivals are expected to take the limelight.
One of the forthcoming catchy SUVs is the Spyker D12 dubbed as the world?s only exotic sport utility vehicle. The Dutch-built SUV is capable of generation 500-horsepower maximum output. Enthusiasts are now excited about the arrival of the one-of-a-kind vehicle.
The Chrysler Group of DaimlerChrysler experience a three percent decrease in passenger-car sales while trucks and SUVs declined by eight percent. At General Motors, car sales declined seven percent, while truck and SUV sales declined by around nine or ten percent.
Among Detroit automakers, the Ford Motor Co. reported the most debilitating decrease in sales in the previous year. Ford?s car sales rose five percent while truck and SUVs decreased by fourteen percent. Ford has this to say: “higher gasoline prices and long-term demographic trends drove SUV sales lower, and a soft housing industry weighed on full-size truck sales.”
However, after just a couple of months, Ford?s sales are making a swift turnaround. The arrival of the new crossover SUVs like the Ford Edge and the Lincoln MKX gradually changes the company?s picture.
General Motors Corporation?s GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook are helping the company a bit. The automaker reported that the Acadia and Outlook “drove a 97 percent retail increase in the mid-crossover segment” in February, compared with that time the year before.
Chrysler Group?s new SUVs like the redesigned Jeep Wrangler have also yielded warm welcome. Experts say these new, car-like SUVs, plus steadier gas prices, could serve 2007 a better year for SUV manufacturers.
In Ford?s January statement, the automaker blamed the declining truck and SUV sales on gas prices, demographic trends and the housing industry. The company said: “Ford believes these factors will continue to weigh on these segments in 2007.”…
Nowadays, there are people who seems to prefer repossessed automobiles for sale rather than brand new ones. The reason is pretty obvious. It is obviously due to the price. This is especially true with the current economic condition. With jobs getting more and more insecure these days, people are not willing to spend too much money on their vehicles.
Repossessed automobiles for sale can be bought for a fraction of the price of a similar brand new car. Obviously, you will need to know where to find these bargains and how to go about the transaction so that you will not get scammed.
First, it is always a good idea to know where these vehicles came from. Well, they are usually from police impounds or cars confiscated by financial institutions as the previous owners couldn’t afford their car payments.
Usually, a third party will take over the tasks of auctioning off the vehicles. This can be a very lucrative business. This is the reason why not many people know about car auctioning as it is not publicize.
Car traders will usually buy those cars at a very low price and resell those vehicles after some touching up. Of course, you may not be interested to be a car trader. However, there is good news for you if you just want to get a cheap car.
Do you know that there are database available online that tell you where to find repossessed automobiles for sale? These database will tell you where you can locate these auctions and get your car for cheap.…
Summer’s fast approaching, and for many that means making plans for the traditional family getaway at the beach, mountains or with distant relatives. For most it means packing the kids, luggage, coolers and equipment into the family vehicle and hitting the highways.
Smart families know they should get their vehicles checked out beforehand to help ensure worry-free summer travel. But today’s busy schedules leave little time for backyard, do-it-yourself tinkering.
Here is some advice on locating a good repair establishment from the pros at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, the group that tests and certifies automotive professionals:
* Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one.
* Ask your friends and associates for their recommendations; consult local consumer groups.
* Arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you will not feel forced to choose a shop based solely on location.
* Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.
* Look for a courteous staff, with a service consultant willing to answer questions.
* Look for policies regarding estimated repair costs, diagnostic fees, guarantees and acceptable methods of payment.
* Ask if the repair facility specializes or if it usually handles your type of repair work.
* Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area, such as civic, community or customer service awards.
* Look for evidence of qualified technicians: trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced courses and ASE certification. Also look for the ASE sign.
ASE was founded in1972 as a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of auto service professionals.
Approximately 400,000 professionals hold current ASE credentials. They can be found at every type of repair business, such as independent garages, dealerships, franchised outlets and collision shops. Certified technicians wear blue and white ASE insignia or pins, while their employers often display their technicians’ ASE credentials in the customer service area and post the ASE sign on the premises.…
The process of finding the appropriate online auto auction deal can be both challenging and interesting. It is challenging and tasking in the sense that we have several companies on the internet today that are very far away from what they claim when it involves probity and accountability in online cars auction business, and that you have to cope with headaches that are associated with fishing out the company with the best package. It is definitely interesting and spine-tingling because of the ease with which you surf the internet at your leisure for the best deal and also the reduced cost involved, which can be very promising to your business.
Nevertheless, I think it is better to give the online auto auction a trial today as you may not find any better option elsewhere. In this type of auction system, the ball is completely left in your court at the mercy of your skills and discretion. One reason I will suggest an internet based auction deal for you is because of its direct, down to earth mode of transaction that you can always access at a mouse click. You also have freedom to make your choice as you can never be under any compulsion to bid for a product.
Another point to consider as you make up your mind for online auto auction is its liberal form. The buyers will have access to several auto products that are available and will be able to make the right choice without any distractions as you will take your time to ponder well on the available options in order to make it a reality. A cursory look into online auto auction predicts a better environment for prospective buyers unlike the offline, street auction that can be very monotonous if not properly moderated. Take it or not, internet auction can make an interesting adventure basically because of the dynamism of the internet technology in its unprecedented possibilities.
If you are a business person that is interested in auto auction business, I think you should start from online auto auction not only because of its other fringe benefits that may hidden from most people in the public as stated above; but because of the fact that you will spend less to achieve more. It is the mentality of the penny-wise, pound foolish that is always advised for business success. One vital issue that must not be discarded without giving it a second taught is the fact that you need to get hooked with the best online auto auction package before thinking about results. The advantages of the internet auction would not have been feasible without a friendly auction package offered by a legal company.
This implies that the most crucial step that must be rightly taken is finding the best online auto auction placement because it is your springboard to pocket friendly auction deals. I think you should take steps towards this. I challenge you to give auction business a trial that grows right away.…
A government car auction is a huge garage of cars. It will be a challenge to find a good auction. Just do a search and you will find many of car auction sites. Occasionally, you may even find cars which are a few years old priced at less than 90% off market value. It really is easier than you may think.
Online auction websites are a great way of finding a dream car. The internet has made it much easier to find a government car auction in your city. These auctions are take place almost every day in every cities of the United States.
You can find many types of cars at a government car auction. These cars have been seized by the government. A lot of cars at the auction sites have been stolen and wrecked. Then it is a good concept to run a title check on any car that you are interested. If you can’t find a neighbor that knows about vehicles to come along with you, try to get a mechanic to come along.
The most reason why people purchase cars at auctions is that they can get to purchase a dream car at much lower prices than the market value. A government car auction can be a good place of investment. Investors buy at a low price and sell at a market price. There are a lot of dealers and buyers at the auction sites. Learn about the rules before you make your bid. The rules look pretty if you want to buy a cheap car. Set a budget for yourself and try to find your dream car within your budget.…
Most insurance companies tread carefully when it comes to providing cheap car insurance for young drivers. The rates are usually higher considering the risks associated with a 17 or 18 year old driving for the first time and the safety of many individuals have to be considered. Also it is widely known that young drivers are highly risk prone and susceptible to accidents.
In order to avoid high premiums associated with these policies, be wise and go through a number of quotes before purchasing any insurance. There are options such as flexible coverage which contain provisions for modifications in premium later on. Policy holders can go in for a lower coverage and further build up on it when they can afford more.
The best way to assess your insurance needs is to contact an insurance agent, especially one who deals with young drivers insurance and follow his advice to lessen the premium and overall cost of car insurance.
Fact is that there are some insurance companies out there who are ready to provide cheap car insurance for drivers considering all the risks present. You need to take time and find them.
Two teenage drivers maybe offered different rates by the same insurance company for simple reasons of their cars being different or one of them has a driving experience of less than 3 years.
Drivers can take advantage of discounts in premiums available for short distance commute to school or work, good grades in school etc. Some teenagers may have undergone a safe or defensive driving course which also entitles them to a discount.
Rule out unnecessary ‘collision’ coverage in case your vehicle is an old and battered type. Monthly withdrawal of premium amounts from your account ensures less billing expenses. You could also consider paying premiums in advance like for a year or six months, again to reduce billing fees.
Some teenage drivers get their cars insured along with their parent’s car insurance to take advantage of multi car discounts. But the feasibility of doing so should be checked out with the parent’s agent and a comparison should be made with the option of the young driver going in for a ‘solo’ policy.…
Got $74,385? No. Not to buy a new set of XJS Jaguar parts. $74,385 would be so you surely can own one of the latest 2007 Jaguar XK series coupe models. It now comes equipped with a 4.2 liter V8 engine that could produce 300 units of horsepower, and it has also been built with an accompanying chassis made out of aluminum. For city driving, you can get 18 miles per gallon out of it and some 26 mpg for cruising down highways. Just by the name that it holds, the Jaguar XK is a superb vehicle and surely exudes class and power. Is it not something you would want to own?
What is new about this new 2007 Jaguar XK is that it is very fast, even much faster than the models before it. And to add to that note, its speed is a product of its getting lighter. In fact, according to the Jaguar brand, it is now five per cent lighter. The previous models were already topnotch vehicles and with changes like this, it not would be very surprising to find that this vehicle has maintained its reign as the best selling sports car for all time for the Jaguar brand.
This sports car has a huge amount of standard equipment made available for all interested parties. You can count in the usual like traction control, stability control and antilock brakes. You can also find whiplash reducing front seats included in the list. For added safety, Jaguar has added in a tire pressure monitoring system as a standard feature. Oh, and do not forget fun features like the DVD navigation system, plus a keyless start. Jaguar also boasts that the Jaguar XK has an adaptive suspension system, power adjustable front seats that are also heated and has a memory function, and parking sensors are also included.…
Audi is not your average car manufacturer, with sedans or coupes of middling quality. Its tagline, ?Truth in Engineering,” captures the company’s advocacy in vehicle advancement through technology perfectly. Applying this principle in the construction of every automobile they launch, the company’s history has already proven how steeped in success this auto maker has been for years now.
Origins can be traced back as far as the beginning of the 20th century, when German engineer August Horch founded a manufacturing firm that would eventually become Audi. In 1932, the four Saxon motor vehicle brands, Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer, merged, forming Auto Union AG, based in Chemnitz, Germany. The Audi emblem of four overlapping rings basically represents this union. For many years after, Audi would become known for producing high quality cars, but it would be in 1998 when the company’s success finally expanded to a global scale.
It was two years before the new millennium when the Audi TT sports car debuted in the market. The TT’s styling was bold, innovative and its market launch was truly a momentous occasion in automobile design for many. While several design elements of the car model was obviously borrowed from earlier vehicles, the combination of such features led to the creation of a car that was, in terms of design, truly unique. Audi TT’s parts and accessories gained huge recognition for the efficient functionality they demonstrated, contributing highly to overall car performance. One of these, the Audi performance chip, can be found on the on-board expansion port of the engine control module. This device adjusts the air to fuel ratio and the timing of the spark plugs in order to induce the most efficient fuel burn. This device is one prime example of Audi’s ingenuity when it comes to automobile parts manufacture. Today, there are many Audi OEM parts that can be purchased. Although the Audi TT is exemplary in every aspect, some cars owners still wish to push their cars to perform further. This is where Audi OEM parts, like an Audi performance chip, comes into play. The installation of this part, after all, successfully results to better handling and higher horsepower. With such products in tow, it is certain that Audi will still be offering excellent products for everyone in the years to come.…
Car insurance should be important to every car owner. This makes choosing the right insurance plan and insurance company very vital. There are many different car insurance plans and a lot of companies willing to provide them for you.
Many offer low insurance rates but high interests. Care should be taken in reading the fine print to avoid getting insurance you cannot afford. A lot of unscrupulous companies are mixed among the legitimate ones. This makes choosing the right plan for you a bit more complicated and confusing.
Every car owner would prefer the cheaper insurance alternative. You need an insurance plan you can afford to pay off and you would want bang for your buck. This makes research very important. Take your time looking for the right car insurance for you and your bank account. Understanding how the rates are determined and how to maximize the lower rates are essential.
Most insurance plans will be based on various parts of your life. Age, gender, credit score, and job to your accident history. The price of your premium would be determined by these factors. The more of a risk you are the less profit the insurer will make and the more your cover will cost.
A lot of insurance companies advertise low rates but will eventually get you with hidden charges and a high interest rate. This makes thorough research and diligence very important. You want an insurance plan you can afford right now and into the future.
Some insurance companies will seek to maintain balanced set of portfolios over a diverse client list. This keeps them profitable and adds some room for recuperating losses from more unstable clients. If you happen to fit into the demographic the insurance company is looking to include in their client bank then they might offer you a great deal.
Just remember to do your research. Check online and compare rates from different companies, check their history and business track record if available. The more you know about the company you are considering the more you can determine whether you can trust their car insurance plans. You can check with your local chamber of commerce or with the better business bureau which companies have claims against them in order to avoid them.
Try to ask around among your friends which companies they have insurance with. Reviews and opinions can help you decide which plan or company is right for you.
Some people save money by switching car insurance providers every year. Granted it could give you cheaper rates each time but other car owners would prefer to build a relationship with their insurance companies in order to get a better deal in the long term. The important thing is to find car insurance that is affordable and works for you.…
When your car breaks down, it’s usually accompanied by a sinking feeling. You know that it’s almost a certainty that it’s going to be a costly affair which might easily throw a wrench into your budget. If you’re lucky enough to know a dependable and honest auto repair mechanic, at least you know you won’t be paying more than necessary. If not, you might be maxing out your credit card to get back on the road. Here, we offer some information on getting an honest and accurate auto repair estimate.
Just as with any type of business, you’ll find a mix of both ethical and unscrupulous auto repair shops. Unfortunately, it’s often difficult to discern which are which in auto repair businesses. It’s a fact that dishonest shops have a number of tricks up their sleeve. For example, some shop owners instruct their mechanics to give an initially reasonable auto repair estimate. Most car owners take this estimate as the final cost.
Once you have your car in the shop, you’re stuck. While the original auto repair estimate was $200, once your car is up on the rack and the repairs are begun, you may get a call from the repair shop, advising you that the problem is more extensive than first thought. What started out as a starter replacement, has suddenly burgeoned into a complicated affair. Not only is the solenoid bad as well, but while doing a routine check on other components, it’s found that your battery is not getting enough juice. Now you also need an alternator. This is what you’re told. The cost becomes $400. You are now in a take it or leave it position. Your car is in pieces.
You can ask to have the bad parts returned to you, thinking that will offer proof that the work was really required. What you don’t know is that the unethical auto repair shop often stockpiles bad parts just for this purpose. The ruined part you receive may well have come from another vehicle! The mechanic, who is instructed by the shop owner to practice such deceit, wants to keep his job and thus goes along with the program.
So, how are you to protect yourself from this type of auto repair estimate scam? Car problems usually turn up without warning. If you have only one car, it’s imperative that you get it fixed immediately. However, you can spend just a few hours and substantially weed out the disreputable repair shops. Get online and Google ‘scams repair-shop-name your-town’. If the repair shop comes up in your results, check out those links. You may find complaints from angry customers on message boards and auto forums. Check the Better Business Bureau records for consumer complaints.
If you know someone who has auto testing equipment, ask them to check your car out. If the testing procedure indicates that your starter is bad and everything else is in proper working order, you won’t be fooled into thinking you need several other costly parts and additional labor.
Better yet, become familiar with your car yourself, before a repair is needed. Buy one of the Chilton’s books and learn the jargon. Study the diagrams. This helps avoid having a mechanic overwhelm you with jargon, faulty reasoning and other deceptive sales talk. You might well save a lot of money if you invest in some basic auto testing equipment that allows you to eliminate that alternator as a problem.
Although it takes a little extra time, it’s worthwhile to get two or three auto repair estimates from different shops. The estimate may vary substantially from one another. Surely there’s a reason. Inquire of each shop why a component has been included, or excluded, if that component shows up on another shop’s auto repair estimate. The attitude of the mechanic and the explanations offered can be revealing.…
If you own and operate an automobile, eventually, there will be a time in which you must shop around for auto parts. When shopping for these products, you will quickly discover that they can carry quite an expense! The expense can place quite a dent in the wallet if you are shopping for parts to replace faulty ones, or simply parts to enhance the overall performance of your vehicle. There are many different ways to save money when buying parts for your automobile. Here, you will learn about a few different strategies that I use when shopping for these products. When comparing the prices of new parts from local automobile stores to the prices that I have paid, I have saved thousands of dollars. Now, you can too!
One of the best methods that you can use when shopping for deals in auto parts is to check out all of your local junkyards and salvage yards. This type of business discounts the prices of these products drastically ? mostly because of the fact that the parts are used, and they have so many to offer to the consumer in need of them. Generally, you can elect to have the parts that you need pulled, or you can save a few extra bucks by pulling the items needed yourself. For example, at one point, my radiator cracked and I needed a new one. The local parts stores average price was right around $75.00. However, I went to a local junkyard, had them pull the part for me, and paid only $15.00. In addition to the radiator, the salvage yard also threw in the hoses. Now, how is that for savings?
The next method that I have used to acquire parts for less for my automobile is a bit more risky than shopping at a local junkyard, but I have never experienced any type of complication from making purchases in this fashion. This step involves using the internet. There are many different online resources that can be implemented when purchasing vehicle components online. For example, there are many online wholesalers that have massive amounts of parts that can be sold at much lower prices than automobile parts stores offer. In addition to this, there are online auction websites like ebay, as well as many classified advertisements that offer great deals on vehicle components.
Over the years, I learned another little handy trick that seems to help when it comes to saving money on parts for my car. You know all of those old “buy here, pay here” car lots? Well, if you run into one that is locally owned, you may get a little deal on any spare parts that they have laying around. Many times, these spare parts are just lying around and cannot be used for anything in the lot. The owners of these little side car dealerships love to make a fast buck and are often more than willing to part with a few vehicle parts to make some fast cash.
As you can see, there are quite a few ways that you can save a little cash when shopping for auto parts. Many times, you just have to get a little creative in your search for a great deal. You will be absolutely surprised at what you bargains you can find shopping around for auto parts.…
Audi has unveiled a compact sports car, the A1, designated for release in the summer of 2010. Designed for younger drivers, the car reflects a sleek and sophisticated look, which makes it a perfect fit for customers who live in urban and large cities. Also, the A1?s compact size allows it to retain agility through high volume city traffic.
The interior reflects a high quality, sporty look. With the latest technology incorporated on board such as the ?infotainment system,? Audi has paved the standard in automobile advances. It features a MMI navigation plus, a media center that also includes a monitor that rises from the instrument panel to the control unit. The A1 also comes with a 465 watt Bose surround sound system. Customers can also customize various aspects of the car to fit their own tastes.
The A1 was designed to have an agile chassis along with powerful engines. This combination makes it the sportiest car in its class. Yet it retains the distinct characteristic of the Audi brand. These features include the coupe-like C pillars, the unique arch-shaped roof, large wheel well and the single-frame grille.
Designed with four four-cylinder engines, the A1 sets new standards in efficiency. All engines substitute turbocharging for displacement and directly draw fuel from injection units. This car also features efficient fuel economy at around 43 ? 61 mpg with a CO2 transmission emission of 159.33 g/mile.
Audi has continued the trend in high-tech through incorporating a seven-speed, dual-clutch S tronic transmission. This allows for quick changes in gears without the pauses in pulling power. The A1 comes in automatic and manual. There is also the option for paddles on the steering wheel.
Overall, the A1 is a compact yet powerful and sporty automobile. It should appeal to younger customers who typically live in larger cities and are looking for a sophisticated yet stylish car.…
Car is the vehicle which represents higher level of luxury, status and comforts in the drive. Along with this, there are number of reasons because of which number of people gets motivated to buy this type of auto. And due to all these aspects and advantages everyone wants to have a motor but there is a big hurdle in the way of buying. Biggest hurdle refers to the cost of the vehicles, generally they possess higher cost and due to the cost factor the lower income group cannot afford to buy these costlier vehicles. But now we have a solution for this type of people because of which these persons can now afford to buy any type of vehicles which they want to.
And that is possible because of the used cars as this is the type that normally is sold at lesser and cheaper rates. Now all the persons with lighter pockets can tighten their shoe lace to walk towards the market to buy their desired and dreamed vehicles. If you are still not satisfied with the used models and want to act smarter then you can prefer to buy the cheap used cars. The used motors which are offered at cheaper rates can be simply called as the cheap used cars. Do you know the reason why some of the people get highly used cars at cheaper rates? The reason for this is very simple and that is there effective way which they follow and some of the effective tips to buy such type are detailed in deep below,
Car condition:
Checking the car condition is the very first step to buy a highly usable used car. The condition should be checked by dividing the features into two they are the internal working areas and the external appealing factor. The car which is good from work performance and not so good in appearance is not worth buying and vice versa. Only those models should be preferred that can satisfy you eyes and mind at one time. And if you want to buy such models then checking the condition of the selected models becomes very important and essential step.
Car price:
Compare the car cost with the level of performance. If the performance is higher and cost is lower then buying is worth, but if the performance is lower than the cost then it is waste to buy the cheap used car. So, cost plays the fundamental role in the buying procedure. The market factors are also responsible to decide the exact value of the car. Again, after all these things the type, model and the manufacturer of cars also make a silent statement in the process of purchasing the car.
So, checking car condition and comparing car price is very essential if you want to act smarter. In this manner the cheap used cars are very easy and simple to get if you follow these tips efficiently and effectively.…
Are you planning to buy a new car for your family this month or this year? If you want to buy brand new luxury cars at the fraction of their original prices then online seized car auction is the place to go for you. Common man only knows two places when purchasing a new car. They either visit a vehicle showroom or meet the local car dealers for cheap deals. But very few people know that there are hundreds of government vehicle auctions which have been conducted everyday across the country. Read further to discover how you can buy your favorite dream car at an affordable price at these online car auctions.
The fact is there are thousands of brand new luxury vehicles who have been getting seized by the government authorities and several financial institutions on a daily basis. These vehicles are generally obtained from the people like loan defaulters, criminals, smugglers, etc. They are generally less than a year old and are usually in a very good condition. You can get access to variety of luxury cars like Mercedes, BMW, Ferrari, Cadillac, Acura and many more.
The government authorities and financial institutions needs to spend significant amount of money on the maintenance of these cars and they occupy several acres of government properties which government can use for other productive purposes. This is the primary reason why these institutions sell these repossessed cars at such an unbelievably low prices. Sometimes you can even get 95% off the original retail price of the car. This means you can get the opportunity to buy $30000 worth of car at just $1500.
There are few reliable government car auctions websites online which gives us up-to-date information about all the ongoing vehicle auctions across all the states and all over the country at the same time. You can join these websites by paying a nominal fee and also bid on your favorite car from the comfort of your home. The biggest advantage of using these online seized car auction websites is very few people actually know about the existence of such sites. This fact alone gives you a competitive edge over others and you get a very good chance to win your favorite car at the fraction of its original price.…
Kuna and Canyon County has already begun with vehicle emissions testing and repairs on June 2010. It is the first time that Nampa, Idaho, has required its vehicle drivers to have their cars tested ever since it has established that emissions from vehicles contributed to the area’s air pollution. There are many Nampa emissions repairs and testing stations already servicing many vehicle drivers due to this mandatory law.
Vehicle emissions control has been studied for many years now, and its main goal is to reduce the polluting emissions that vehicles powered by internal combustion engines create and release out to the air. There are many pollutants extracted from cars that are especially important to note down when the health of the people, animals, and the environment is at stake. The most principal of these include hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulates.
Hydrocarbons come from fuel that is either unburned or partially burned. They are toxic, and can cause liver damage and cancer to people exposed to the pollutant more than is necessary. Regulations concerning hydrocarbons depends upon the engine off the vehicle. Carbon monoxide, on another hand, is not as fatal as hydrocarbons. But it lessens the blood’s abilities to carry oxygen throughout our body, and too much carbon monoxide can be fatal to us. Nitrogen oxide is a precursor to acid rain and smog. It is emitted mostly by big vehicles and trucks that blow hot exhaust. The effect of nitrogen oxides to our system is that it destroys resistance to any respiratory infections. Particulates also bring harm to our respiratory health.
With the harm and dangers that these gaseous chemicals give us, it is only understandable that health organizations and environmentalists have taken action against them. The continuing pollution of the air has always been a problem. It has become increasingly problematic as more toxicity has been found in the air.
Not all officials of Nampa had been supportive of the law that states that emissions testing is now mandatory for all vehicle drivers of Kuna and Canyon County. The majority has decided, however, and the law was approved. Not everyone of the folks at the specified areas were also unhappy about the new law. Considering the environmental and physical health effects of the pollutants, this move was bound to happen sooner or later. By the start of the month of June, emissions control and testing began to be carried out.
Vehicles that need to be tested are those that are cars from 1981 to 2005. Hybrid cars are exempted from emissions testing. There is also a fee of $10 for the testing. Drivers only need to have their vehicles tested every other year, so 10 bucks is not that costly. This year, even numbered cars are the ones required to take the emissions control and testing. Cars from 1982, 1984, up to 2000 and 2002 will need to make that visit to the Nampa emissions testing station. Next year, it will be the odd numbered cars’ turn.…
Public auction cars can be a good deal if you are looking to purchase a used car and know what you are doing. Today more than ever before, there are many vehicles that have been repossessed due to our current economy.
Sadly, many people have experienced difficult times due to job loss or pay cuts and the once affordable vehicle they used to drive is no longer feasible for their monthly budget. Once they get behind it causes a downward spiral affect with a person’s car payments and many just can’t get caught up.
This leads to the bank reclaiming the vehicle through repossession. Once the bank has taken the car back, it can be expensive for the bank to store the vehicle and advertise it for sale.
Most of the time it’s easier for the banks to take the car to the auction where they can sell it quickly and try to recoup their money.
Here are some helpful suggestions before you purchase a public auction car.
To begin with, it helps to know ahead of time what type of car, truck, or SUV you are interested in. Do your research to determine what vehicle will meet your needs and wants before you get to the auction.
Don’t take chances paying more than what the vehicle is really worth.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of an auction and overpay for your car when the bidding gets fast.
It’s a good idea to look up the vehicle’s value online so you are prepared with a dollar figure before you go to the auction. This will help stop you from over-bidding as well as tell you if you are getting a good deal or not.
Don’t be afraid to walk away from a vehicle if the bidding is much higher than what you want to pay.
This brings me to my next point…
Because you will be purchasing a vehicle as is, it is a good idea to bring someone with you that knows about cars. If you have a friend or relative that is somewhat mechanical ask them to attend the auction along with you.
The two of you should arrive to the auction early so that the mechanically inclined friend can check under the hood of a few choices you find that you are interested in. Do not be intimidated or afraid to check the car over as thoroughly as is possible.
Crawl under the car and check out the undercarriage, looking for excessive rusting. Pull on wires and hoses under the hood to be sure things look solid and in good condition.
Check and double check. Buying public auction cars can only be a good deal if the car is going to carry you down the highway without breaking down.
If you get the car at a good price but then have to dump a lot of money into it for repairs, it could end up being an expensive way to purchase a car.
Finally, be prepared to pay for the car that day.
Most auctions do not take credit cards and it is almost unheard of that you can get any type of financing with public auction cars. Therefore it is a good idea to have cash or a check on hand before going to the auction.
Public auction cars can be a good deal by simply following these few instructions. Now, have fun bidding and best wishes for finding that sweet deal on your next ride.…
You feel pretty good about your new tires you just picked up from a Utah auto repair shop. You paid a lot of money for them and want to keep those tires lasting for… well forever would be nice. Here are some tips to help keep your tires in good order, which will decrease your chance of getting a flat.
Before going further you need to make sure that you have the proper tools to change your tire if you do ever have a flat tire. Don’t forget to check the condition of your spare tire. If you don’t have a spare you’ll want to keep a 12 volt air pump and a can of fix-a-flat (you cannot patch a tire that has fix-a-flat in it) in your vehicle.
Periodically checking the tread depth is our first tip to avoiding a flat. To check, place a penny upside down in the tread. You’ll know it’s time to get new tires when you see the top of Lincoln’s head. Buying all 4 tires at the same time can save you some money, so don’t forget to rotate them. If you purchased your tires at a Utah auto repair shop, most will rotate the tires for free. This also helps you to avoid flats since you’re not wearing down the same spot for the life of the tire.
Tire rot is an issue that many people don’t know about. Tire rot is small cracks on the sidewall of a tire. This happens when the rubber breaks down, so if you have older tires take a look at the sidewalls.
Proper tire pressure keeps your tires lasting longer. Besides helping with gas mileage, properly inflated tires don’t cause as much stress to the sidewalls. Stress on the sidewall increases dry rot.
2007 model year vehicles and newer have a built in tire pressure monitoring system. You can also install an aftermarket tire pressure monitoring system for vehicles built before 2007.
Valve stems are next on the list. Dry rot can also appear in valve stems and cause them to fail. It takes about 10 minutes, at little cost, for your Utah auto repair shop to replace a valve stem.
Last on the list is to be careful of where you drive. Beware of pot holes, sharp rocks, bad train tracks, etc. Keep clear of construction areas where possible since you may pick up a nail or a staple. Take care of your tires and they will last longer and you’ll much more likely to avoid a flat.…
It is believed that majority of new car sales that take place are due to the well planned marketing strategy of the car manufacturers. However, in reality, it is the other way round. Around 80% of the sales take place due to the buyers’ references or the marketing skills of the salesmen. The advertisements don’t tell the complete story of a car. It is the salesman who does. Therefore, the role of a salesman in selling a car cannot be undermined.
The job of a car salesman is not easy at all. Selling a car worth thousands of dollars cannot be a cakewalk. So what should a salesman do to sell a car? Following are few of the tips a salesman could refer to:
Think as a businessman:
It is important to think as a businessman rather than a salesman. Doing this will definitely make you try harder towards making sales. Moreover, if you get a commission for every sale you make, this approach can really fetch you some serious money.
Know the car well
Make sure that you know the car you are selling well. Find the strong points that you can put across the clients. Apart from that, know the weaknesses of your car as well so that you can defend them well in front of your clients.
Listen more and talk less
Most of the salesmen commit this mistake. Out of sheer excitement or the aggressive approach towards making a sale, they just don’t allow the customers to speak. This will not take you anywhere. Try and listen to customers as much as possible. By listening to them, you will be able to comprehend their needs and strategize accordingly.
Don’t try to hide facts
IF your products have a disadvantage or a negative point, make sure you don’t hide it. Instead, try and defend it by giving sensible counter statements. Don’t be very aggressive in your defence. Mind you, its your product that has deficiency.
Stay calm and polite
It is very important to be calm and polite while talking to your customer. Some customers try to act smart by asking too many funny questions but you need to hold on to your nerves and answer the questions sensibly and in the politest manner you can.
Customer is always right
Remember the golden rule “customer is always right”. You can prove him wrong but you don’t need to and especially when he is interesting in buying your car. Even if they refuse to buy your car, greet them with full warmth and thank them for giving their time.
These are just few tips which can help you in selling your car. However, at the end of the day, its going to be your mannerisms and skills that will fetch you a sale.…
We all know that accidents happen, it is a fact of life. However, this point does not make having one any less scary. Even after you have checked to make sure your body parts are all still attached there is still a ton to think about. What should I do about insurance, should I call the police, how do I ask for his or her insurance information and so on. These are all questions that will address as well as many others. However, we will start at the start.
At the scene
The immediate reaction most people have to being in an accident is “oh crap I was just in an accident!” When you recover some level of sense and are able to look around, make sure that you and your passengers are ok. If anyone is injured call the authorities and let them handle it, do not ever try to remove someone from the car unless there is danger of a fire or some more pressing and immediate danger.
Provided that you and your passengers are OK (a few bumps and bruises are fine), take a deep breath and try to remain calm. Always keep a pen and paper around to quickly jot down the other car’s license plate number. Shut your car off and step out if it is safe to do so. Take a look at the damage and do your best to keep your cool, this is not the time to blow up. A common misconception is that the police do not need to be called in every instance. The police should always be called as it is in the best interest of everyone involved to have a police report. You do not need to get insurance involved if that is your choice, but having a police report will always help, especially if the other person decides to pull the ol’ switcharoo on you and demand payment.
Interacting with the other driver
This is a scary part, you have to interact with someone whom you do not know. You do not know how this person will react or what they will try to do. The key here is to stay calm and try to think rationally (we know that can be hard after something jarring like an accident). If you have a calm demeanor it will relax the other party. Be courteous but firm, try not to start an argument as the police/insurance companies can settle any dispute better than you.
Make sure you exchange insurance information regardless of whether you plan to get insurance involved or not. It is always good to have just in case. If it appears that the other driver has lost his cool it is even more important that you remain calm. If the police are coming then you have nothing to worry about, the anger will only make him or her seem more at fault. Try not to get into a shouting match as you do not want to antagonize the other driver.
Finally, when the police arrive, make sure you give them a detailed report as to what happened from your view. Do not embellish, exaggerate or lie as the police are very good at sniffing that out. Even if you suspect the other driver will do so, make sure your story is as you remember it. The police will assume that everyone is trying to cover his or her own ass and will catch the exaggerations of the other party. Also, any witnesses will confirm your story if you told the truth.
After the accident
There are a few things to do after an accident. If you chose to do so, file an insurance claim. The police report will come in handy here. Follow the process of your insurance company and see if they will cover your accident. Make sure you stay in some form of contact with the other party (provided they were as courteous as you were) so that you both know what is going on.
Finally there is the issue of getting your car repaired. Usually a good first step is to search on Google for collision specialists in your area. Find a few and get estimates for how much it would cost to fix. Make sure you like both the pricing and the specialist’s personality before going in to get it fixed. Many people believe they can do the repairs themselves. Generally speaking, working on your own car can be fun and rewarding, however when it comes to collisions it is good to find a specialist. Each accident is unique and there is no guide on how to fix any one. Each requires a custom job, including frame and body work, that is extremely difficult for someone without the proper tools and training. Also, …
If you have been considering purchasing a car, you have some options that are open to you which can help you to save money and to get the car that you need conveniently. One of those options is to use one of the auctions that are available as this will not only give you access to the automobiles that you desire, but will often give you access to discounts as well. What are some of the things that you should consider before purchasing one of those auction cars and how can you make sure that you are as happy as possible with the overall process?
First of all, you should familiarize yourself with the different types of auctions that are available. It is likely that some of these are going to be operating in your local area on a regular or at least, a periodic basis. At times, some of these auctions are going to be privately owned and people will bring their car to the auction to sell it to the general public. This is a great way for you to save money on an automobile and there are typically a variety of different types of cars that are available.
Other auctions are not going to be open to the general public and may only be open to dealers. If you have your dealer’s license or if you know somebody that has a dealer’s license, they may be able to get you into one of these auctions so that you can save even more money on a prime automobile. Additionally, there may be private auctions that are run in your local area by the police or other government agencies that are selling automobiles that have been seized. If you are able to get to one of those auctions, it is likely that you’re going to find some high end automobiles available at a discount.
What are some of the things that you should consider when using an automobile auction? One of the most important things is the fact that in most cases, the cars that you purchase are not going to be guaranteed. That is why you must know for a fact that you are happy with an automobile before you purchase it. If you are not mechanically inclined, it may be necessary for you to take somebody along with you to give the car a once over before you place a bid. More than likely, you’re going to be able to start the car and to look under the hood but you may not be able to drive the car in advance.
Finally, consider the possibility of traveling to an auction that is outside your local area. There may be specialty options that are available which can help you to save even more money, such as federally seized automobiles. It would be worth the travel if you were able to visit one of these options, particularly if you’re looking for a high-end automobile. Just make sure that you are prepared to bring the car back with you on the trip back home.…
Whenever you are faced with a potential, unexpected car repair it can be a stressful task. There are certain mechanical failures that may make you panic – mainly the engine and transmission. It is common knowledge that repairs on either of these components are very costly and you may not have the money to take the car to the shop. The good news is you need not panic as there is another option that can sometimes cut your costs in half.
If you need transmission repair there are a few options to consider:
• Take the vehicle to an auto repair shop and pay for parts and labor
• Buy your new parts from the auto store and do the repairs yourself
• Buy used auto parts and have an auto repair shop do labor
• Buy used auto parts and do the repair yourself
The first option of using a repair shop will always be the most costly option. You will pay more for parts as well as labor. Your second option will save you some money by only requiring out of pocket funds for new parts. However, be advised that new auto parts are often marked up quite a bit. Your third and fourth options are the best choices if you are looking to lower your budget significantly. Let’s discuss them in more detail.
Buying used auto parts makes some people feel uneasy. This should not be a problem if you go to a trusted and experienced junkyard. There, you can often find almost-new parts and components that have significant years and miles left on them. If you need a used transmission, an auto salvage yard should be your first stop, regardless of whether you want to do the actual repairs yourself or have the transmission installed professionally. Before you go to the junkyard you should follow these steps:
• Make sure you know what you are looking for. Consult your car’s manual to determine the exact type of transmission that your car has and the specifications you need.
• Determine what actual parts you need. If you have an automatic transmission, look for other components that are needed such as a torque converter. If you have a manual transmission, you may need a new clutch in addition to the exact transmission. You can always call the car manufacturer to get full details on what you need so that you have all proper parts assembled before your repair.
• Carefully examine all parts. When you visit the junkyard, look at all of the components of the transmission. Cycle through all gears of the transmission and make sure that you do not hear any suspect noises, especially grinding. It should be fairly easy to get through all gears. If you have difficulty doing so, you should probably move on to the next potential prospect. Look for clean oil between the gears. You should also examine the input and output shafts to make sure the input shaft is not too loose and the output rotates easily.
If you follow these easy steps, purchasing a junkyard transmission and other used auto parts will greatly cut your costs and allow you to make your transmission repairs much more affordable – whether you do it yourself or just get used parts and take them to your repair shop.…
Aside from a home, an automobile is one of the most costly items that people will purchase in their lifetime. This is a necessity with a hefty a price tag, and keeping your car properly maintained can not only extend the life of your automobile, but save you time and money as well. Taking a proactive approach to car maintenance rather than a reactive one can prevent damage to your automobile and decrease the cost of ownership. A busy schedule can often get in the way of taking the appropriate measures to ensure your vehicle stays in good condition, but finding the time to perform these simple tasks will protect your investment and reduce the risk of encountering a problem with your automobile.
According to the consumer watchdog group Car Care Counsel, the cost of auto accidents stemming from poor upkeep exceeds $2 billion each year. While you may be able to avoid an actual collision, neglecting to perform regular maintenance on your vehicle can shorten its life-cycle. When you do the math, performing routine scheduled maintenance will actually save you money in the long run, as well as keep your car running longer. Considering all of the things that can go wrong with an automobile such as brake, transmission, or radiator problems, failed smog tests, and perhaps even engine failure, regular maintenance fees are a fraction of the cost of repair bills.
So what are the most important things you need to remember for properly maintaining your vehicle? First and foremost, performing routine oil changes at about every 3,000 miles will keep your engine running clean. Oil lubricates the engine and helps to reduce friction within the engine. Driving a car that has run out of oil can cause severe damage to the engine and even fire. If you own a car that does not alert you when you are low on oil, take note of the date and mileage on your car after every oil change. This will help you to remember when you are due for another oil change and mitigate the risk of you running out of oil and your engine burning up. Changing your oil filter at the same time of your oil change will help to maximize engine life by removing the debris and particles that have built up in the oil filter.
Your tires should be next on your car maintenance checklist. Somewhere in the area of every 6,000 miles, your tires should be rotated to equalize the wear on each tire. Although tire air pressure should be checked on a more frequent basis, checking your tires to ensure that they are inflated at the appropriate pressure at the time of your tire rotation will help you remember to do so. If you aren’t sure what your tire pressure is supposed to be, refer to your owners manual, check online, or ask your mechanic. In addition to keeping your car running smoothly, keeping your tire pressure at the manufacturer suggested levels will give you better gas mileage, saving you even more money in this time of skyrocketing fuel costs.
Next on the list should be your yearly brake system inspection. Regardless of how many miles you have put on your car, brake fluid should be changed at least once every 2 years. Brake disc pads and shoes should be checked annually for wear. When they are worn down, they need to be replaced to avoid damage to the drum or rotor. By replacing your brake disc pads and shoes when necessary, you will avoid additional expenses such as brake drum or rotor replacements which will cost you roughly twice as much as pads and/or shoes.
A commonly overlooked but vital maintenance step is replacing your cars timing belt at the time suggested by your automobile manufacturer. This is one of the more costly maintenance procedures costing between $500 and $700 for a replacement belt, however a failed timing belt can damage your cars engine and repair costs for valves and other parts could run you up to $2,000 depending on the type of car you own. Parts for a domestic car will obviously be less costly than those for a foreign car.
Finally, to avoid failing emission tests that are required by the DMV, change your engine filters and spark plugs. Not only will this help keep your engine clean, but will significantly boost your chances of passing your mandatory smog tests.
Although following these automobile maintenance suggestions will require you to spend some money throughout the period of ownership, you will end up saving yourself from having to spend much more to get these parts repaired when they inevitably encounter a problem. A properly maintained automobile can last for 50,000 miles more than one that is neglected. Keeping to this list of …
I’m sure we have all been there. You have paid all the bills, there is no more money left in the checking account, and right on cue, the car breaks down. Now not everybody is independently wealthy, and has the cash to be throwing at costly repairs for our vehicles. Luckily though, you always have the option of car repair loans.
A car repair loan is essentially just like any other loan. You apply for the cost of your repair bill, and when you’re approved, you simply use the money to pay the bill. Then, just like any other loan, you must pay that money back in a timely manner. Car repair loans aren’t known to everybody, and actually very few people take advantage of them.
Car repair loans can come in a couple different ways. There are the traditional loans like you would get from your bank, but there are also credit card options as well. The way these work usually is that a no interest offer is applied for a certain number of months. If the balance is paid in full by that date, you owe no more than the principle. This is commonly referred to as something like “90 Days same as cash”.
The benefits of car repair loans are quite obvious. Imagine the feeling of not having to worry about whether or not you’ll have the money available when your car breaks down (and lets face it, they all do eventually). When it does, you will have a resource that you can fall back on. Believe me, it is much easier to work in a few hundred dollars a month to the budget, as opposed to $1,500 dollars all at once.
Just like any loan, when you are preparing to apply for a car repair loan, always do your homework. There are plenty of people out there that will gladly take your money while promising things they can’t deliver. Always go with a reputable company or bank and this will save you headaches down the road. If you have a bank that normally handles all of your loans, call them and ask for information on personal loans. These are difficult to get from a bank, but always worth a try. It is especially beneficial to be financed with an institution you are familiar with, as there is already that element of trust built into the relationship.…