The flames from the silencer of the car burst out, as if the car would fly. The bright red spoiler adds to the glamour of the car. The blue light which throws itself beneath the car entices you to the top and the paint and stickers make you want that car. You probably would have imagined one of the best custom cars, by the time you read these lines. What do you think, why custom cars like these are so popular and people just can?t stop making their cars like one of them? Why every time a customized car passes by you, your heart skips a beat? Think about it.
Well, the reason behind the popularity of custom cars can be many. But let us discuss some of the major reasons. One of the prominent and arguably the predominant reason behind custom cars is street car racing. The second reason behind the popularity of custom street cars is the craze and the love of people for their cars. They want to see their car and its performance in a completely new way and opt for customization according to their needs.
Let us discuss the street car racing concept which has led to the popularity of custom street cars. Car lovers love to flaunt their cars in speed and style. Street car racing is popular in many countries. They happen both legally and illegally and the business of illegal street car racing is much higher than the legal racing.
People buy normal cars from the market and then customize them according to the racing requirements. They concentrate on modifying engine, body and style. Engine customization is their priority. The famous nitro boosts are added to the engine to give drivers an added edge over the other racers when it comes to super fast acceleration at any point of time. Among other modification are the rpm boost, better exhaust, flame silencers, ignition system, and fuel intake system. When it comes to style, neon lightning, stickers , alloys, window graphics, spoilers and other parts give car a completely new look.
With enhanced acceleration, top speed and nitrous oxide support, a car is ready to zoom ahead in a race. These customizations make any car a speeding beauty. People get both style and power which they always wanted in their cars. Street racing would continue to be the driving force behind popularity of custom cars.
Another reason behind popularity of custom cars can be sheer looks and style. They want their car to look the best when they take it on to streets. Car lovers tend to customize their cars and turn them into fabulous machines. People paint their cars with vibrant colors; they change their bumpers and add many more features to them. They put on neon blue bulbs, stickers and stylish wiser and spoiler to add to the charisma of the car. The alloys and rim covers give cars an all together different look. Light accessories, license plate accessories, high volume deck, tinted windows panes make a car look awesome in its own kind.
So if you are bored with the looks and performance of your car, customize it applying your own creativity or give it to a customization company.…
Getting Car Insurance quotes nowadays just needs you to have an internet connection.
That is because there are a lot of car insurance companies that are based online, where you are able to get quotes for your car in an effective quick manner. No longer do you have to physically phone the different companies, or worse drive out to see them to find out about the packages that they are offering. What is convenient is that you can get all the different quotes without having to leave your home, which makes it very convenient. From the different quotes you should be able to pick the companies that you want to know more about prior to making your decision. The fact that there are so many companies offering the same service makes it difficult to find the right company that will give you the service that you want. There are however certain things that you can do to get started in getting the car insurance quotes: Take your time searching for the insurance quotes so that you can do your comparisons between the companies properly so that you align yourself in getting the best deal possible.
Car Insurance quotes are based on a number of factors such as:
What kind of car it is, what area do you stay in, where does the car park and other factors. When you are requesting for quotes, make sure that the information that you supply is truthful, complete and accurate. Omitting information will only make the company quote a wrong figure that will be based on lies and you put yourself at risk of not being covered if they find out the truth or if something happens. The sales people who sell car insurance quotes are professionals, and they have been trained to close on sales very effectively. Therefore if you are not careful you can end up taking up a policy without actually realizing it. Make sure that you stick to the purpose of getting quotes so that you are able to compare prices and packages properly. When you get set to start getting those car insurance quotes make sure that you have information readily available.
The information that they will most likely need from you is:
1. They will want your personal details including how long you have been driving for. 2. Vehicle details where they will want to know what type of car it is, what it is, what model it is, what year it is and other information. Once you have gathered a couple of car insurance quotes, make sure that you pick a few that you like. Consider calling these companies to find out more about what they are offering, and weigh everything out to make sure you go with the company that gives you the best deal. Once you make contact with these companies, you need to find out if they have any type of discounts that they are running. Find out if they are prepared to drop the premium based on how long you have been driving for and that you are a very low risk client and see what kind of discounts they offer.
Getting car insurance quotes is very easy…
If you have access to the internet, just make sure that you compare companies and their plans, and choose the one that is best suited to your needs and your pocket.…
When you get a divorce, car insurance costs can easily get out of control. In fact, as soon as the divorce is finalized, you can expect a significant hike in your premium. Regardless of what your current insurance broker tells you, other carriers may be willing to give you cheaper rates. In fact, if you are skeptical of this simple fact, you can go online and find out for yourself today.
If you have a child to take care of, or dead beat ex husband, chances are it will be even more important to cut back on car insurance costs. As may be expected, when you are desperate for every dime that comes in the door, it will be very hard to think about how you are going to get a better deal. That said, online free quotation sites are open 24 hours a day. You can always go online while you have insomnia, or during lunch break in order to ask for an estimate. As soon as you finish answering a few simple questions, your request will be transmitted to dozens of insurance companies.
There is no question that being able to cut car insurance costs is a key element for divorced women. No mater whether you get into a new relationship, or you decide to stay single for a while, cost effective transportation will enable you to think clearly about other aspects of you life. Why go on suffering with high insurance rates just because you had to get rid of a bad husband? Once you take the steps to cleanse your life of a bad relationship, why clutter it up with unnecessary financial obligations to local insurance carriers that want to drain the life out of you?…
Don’t you wish that you can buy cheap used cars that look and feel nice on the road? Maybe even buy your dream car, nice and shiny, but at an insanely small price compared to its original price tag? Ah, dream no more because there is a way to get an amazing car at an amazing price. The way is Government Auction Cars! Let me tell you about that and how you can use these auctions to your advantage.
Now, don’t go out telling your friends and colleagues about this just yet. Firstly because dealers don’t like to publicly advertise these auctions since they’d get people hoarding up at the auction and leaving the car dealer’s day job empty and penniless. So don’t ask car dealers about these auctions for advice because their best interest is to keep it away from you. You can’t blame them really, right?
But check this out. You can get a nice new shiny car for only a few thousand dollars of the original price. That’s right, you can get some cars at a few hundred dollars too if they are older.
Listen to this advice if you want to get lucky with the car auctions: bring a trusted car expert that you know you can depend on. Why? Because you want someone who is more familiar with what a good, used car looks like. This is also because the government may not have seen a flaw in the car that you ought to be aware of, not just for your ease of mind and safety while driving that car, but also because of how you can bid less on the original asking price if the flaw is acknowledged.
Finally, make sure you figure out how you would want to pay for the car that you will bid on. Payment plans generally include making payments in cold cash, check, installments, or a combination of two. Do your best to get this important arrangement done clearly and completely before closing the deal.…
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.”…
Considered as the first true muscle car, the Pontiac GTO is truly a groundbreaker. Most collectors of classic muscle cars see the GTO as a true gem, a real sexy and sweet beauty. And understandably so: not only is the Pontiac GTO a genre-defining car, it actually boasts of a sweet look and is capable of a powerful performance.
The Birth of a Legend
Back in the early ?60s, General Motors banned divisions from participating in auto racing. This was a heavy hit to Pontiac, since their marketing campaign was based heavily on car racing. The result is a legend: by modifying the Pontiac Tempest into a road-friendly, yet high-performance car. And it became a monster hit.
The name was after the Ferrari 250 GTO, in which GTO stood for Gran Turismo Omologato. For those who couldn’t speak Italian, it simply means homologated (or approved) for inclusion in the GT class.
First Generation
The first generation Pontiac GTO was released in 1964. It was only an option for the Pontiac LeMans. It had a 398-cubic inch V8 engine, which has a speed of 325hp at 4800rpm, with a 3-speed manual transmission. It came in three styles: hardtop coupe, two-door sedan, or convertible. It cost around $290–a real bargain today, but not back then!
A few changes were made the following year, including extending the length of the car by 7.9cm. Perhaps the most popular of the first-generation GTOs is the ’66 edition with the “Coke-bottle look.” Not does the ’66 GTO completely define what classic muscle cars would look like, it also heralded the start of the GTO series as an independent model (and not as an option). It was so popular that sales shot up to 90,000.
Second Generation
Around 1970s, the second generation of GTOs was up and about. There were some cosmetic changes, such as the ‘hidden headlights’ feature for the ’68 and ’69 Pontiac GTO. But function-wise, the GTO remained the same. It had the same V8 engine, albeit optimized so it would peak at 400hp.
By this time, the GTO faced a fierce battle with other newly-emerged muscle cars. There was the Oldsmobile 442, the Plymouth Road Runner, and the Chevrolet Chevelle, among others. Sales were dwindling, and the GTO was having a hard time keeping itself on top.
By 1972, sales of this classic car drastically dropped to 5,811. This was the result of several things. Aside from the tough competition, the GTO also lacked promotion. Add to that the move to make gasoline free of lead, which lead Pontiac to make this classic muscle car have less muscle–without the Ram-air option for engines, its performance was compromised. Add to that the dwindling appeal of muscle cars (because of market saturation and the emerging energy crisis), and the ?death’ of the Pontiac GTO becomes no mystery.
The Pontiac GTO is a cool and sexy classic muscle car. Its history is somehow a tragic one: it started the whole craze about muscle performance cars, but ended with not a single bang. Yet, because of this history, the Pontiac GTO is ever more valuable today as a classic car. Since not so many people have it in their garage, a restored one will surely peak at way more than ten grand–that’s a long way from $290.…
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 United States Government purchases thousands of cars for use as fleet vehicles. These fleet vehicles are used by different agencies to perform their vital functions, which are required for this country to run smoothly. Due to the need for a reliable vehicle, there are strict government regulations on how long the vehicle can be used before it is retired from service, and replaced by a newer model. The regulations also require that when a vehicle is retired from service, it is to be disposed of by being sold at a public auction.
The government’s motivation is not to make a profit, but to get rid of the vehicles, because there are cars being retired from service every day, and they pile up. Due to the amount of cars being retired, auctions are held in every state, several times a year.
Before a government car auction starts, you will have the opportunity to inspect the vehicles for any major problems that could affect the safe or reliable operation of the vehicle. These problems are rare due to the excellent maintenance of government vehicles, but if you are not mechanically inclined, it is recommended that you bring someone who is, just to make sure.
When the bidding starts, it starts low. The car is sold for the highest bid. Most cars sell for a few thousand less than what they are worth, but some nice cars have been known to sell for almost nothing if there is no competition bidding on them.…
There can be many reasons a person buy’s a used car. The first and most important reason is that you don?t enough money for a new car and you don?t want to borrow any money because you don?t think you could afford the monthly repayments. Another option is buying a used car, this can be very helpful for your finances, and however there are still some important guidelines that you must consider before looking at purchasing a used car. In this article we will look at some of these guidelines and precautions.
When looking for a used car, the first step is to find one for sale. You can find cars for sale by looking in the newspaper; however you want to buy a useful car. It would be best if you buy a car from somebody that you really know, friends, family members, and colleagues are the first people that you should consider buying a car from. Tell them that you plan to buy a car in the near future and mention what your budget is. Since people keep hearing news of used cars being sold out, somebody in your list of acquaintances will be able to direct you to a used-car owner who is willing to sell a car which is in good condition and hopefully at a reasonable price. If you?re unable to find a used car with somebody that you know then you can check out the local newspaper adverts.
The first step will be helpful in not only finding a great car but will also help you learn how different cars differ in price depending upon the model, mileage, and overall condition. You can decide about the features that you?re looking for in a car and then decide upon a price range. The next step is to learn about the person that is selling the car; you can do this by asking questions. These questions should be geared to discover why the car is being sold, how long they have had the car and how often they have had it serviced.
Now you should carefully inspect the car. Some sellers may not be that honest about any problems they have experienced with the car. Look carefully at the bodywork to discover any holes, dents or rust. Some rusted parts may have to be replaced in order for the car to be safe and work properly. If you do decide to buy this car then you have to be ready to be on the lookout for these parts and then ask the seller to subtract the cost from the selling price of the car. Don?t forget to look under the hood! Check that all electrical and mechanical parts are in good condition, after that take a look at the tires, glass and paint.
If the car looks in perfect or near perfect condition then ask the seller if you can take it out for a test drive. This way you will be able to note down any trouble areas if you come across any. Make sure that you check the clutch in manual cars and the accelerator in automatic cars. Also listen carefully for any unusual or strange noises. Check all of the buttons, air conditioner and radio to see if they are working fine. Test the car by driving in different situations, for example apply the brakes suddenly, change gears frequently, speed up a little, throughout all of this just watch how the car performs and reacts. When you?re inside the car check the seat-covers, rear-view mirrors and the glove compartment, although these are minor things it?s worthwhile checking their condition.
If the car has passed all of your tests so far, then it?s time to carefully study all of the paperwork that comes with the car. Its licence number, insurance details, and registration papers should be read in detail, make sure all of these are for the right car. If some of the documents are missing, then ask the seller to produce them before making a deal. Finally, you should decide how much you think the car is worth and make an offer.
As a final note all cars wear out as they get older; however certain makes and models react differently when they become old. It might be worth looking for advice for this specific used car so you can find out any common problems when the car gets older.…
If you are looking for a new family car, you might be wondering “what are the best used cars?” If you just started a used car dealership, you might be asking the same thing. After all, you want to stock your lot with vehicles people want to buy. So what are the best used cars? The answer isn’t as easy to get as you might think; we all have different wants and needs. For example, ask ten of your friends their favorite movies and you are likely to get different responses. The same will hold true for used cars.
While I cannot outright give you any names on the best used vehicles, I can give you some helpful tips on making the decisions yourself.
Buying a Used Car for Your Family
If you will be driving the vehicle in question, you need to like it the most. So right away, you want to focus on appearance. You don’t need to focus on color because most vehicles come in a wide range of different colors. What you should focus on is the mileage and design.
Since this vehicle is going to be a family car, you want to take your family into consideration. First, it is important to consider the size of your precious cargo. How many kids do you have? Do you have four kids? If so, your standard cars are automatically eliminated from the running. What you want to consider next is SUVs, minivans, station wagons, and crossovers. Then, there is the safety issue. All cars get safety ratings when first released, so do a little bit of research online to find the best rated in safety.
Then, focus on the money you want to spend. Are you on a budget? If so, write down exactly how much you have to spend on a used vehicle. It is recommended that you keep the cost of taxes and vehicle registration in mind too. Most car finding websites and desktop car finders let you search for vehicles based on price, do this to see what is within your budget.
Buying Used Vehicles for Your Dealership Lot
As a used car dealer, you might be familiar with the thousands of different vehicles that are out there. This can give you an advantage, but remember that you are only selling the vehicles; you aren’t buying them yourself. Put yourself in the place of a car buyer and find your best vehicle based on your wants and needs. However, some attention should be placed on your targeted market.
As you know, your targeted market is people in need of buying a used car. You are likely to greet people when they enter your dealership lot. Why not take the time to ask a few questions. What type of car are they looking for? What is their budget? Do they have any kids? Pretty soon you will be able to notice a common theme among many of your buyers. Then, keep your community in mind too. Say your lot is located near farm country; trucks might be in high demand. Say your lot is located near a town that has been putting a lot of focus on going green; hybrids and fuel efficient vehicles might be in high demand.
If you were to do a search online with the phrase “best used cars,” you might come across the J.D. Power and Associates Top-Rated Cars like I did. For the 2009 year, you will see the Hyundai Elantra, Nissan 350Z, Ford Mustang, Lexus IS 250, Lexus LS 460, Nissan Altima, Mercury Sable, and a few others. Remember though that even though these vehicles might the highest rated, it doesn’t mean that they are the best used cars for your wants and needs.…
I am sure your quest for car insurance for women has come to an end as you read this article. Yes, gone are those days when we have to search endlessly for car insurance for women information or other such information like rental car insurance, general electric auto insurance, auto insurance Sacramento, Quinn direct car insurance quote, car insurance U.K. or even cheap online car insurance UK. Even without articles such as this, with the Internet all you have to do is log on and use any of the search engines to find the car insurance for women information you need.
How car insurance for women Work
Looking for cheap car insurance is as easy as going on line in a search of quotes on insurance rates. Going on line will result in getting various quotes from numerous companies but don’t stop there.
You should know that there are certain assorted ways are related to finding lower car coverage and many of them are very convenient to implement. Methods like purchasing a low profile car, driving less or reducing your moving time are not feasible nowadays in daily life.
Many individuals nowadays dream of high-profile cars such as Mercedes, Porsche, BMW, Ferrari etc. Apart from this many individuals have to cover long-distance do their work and moreover fast moving is an essential part of today’s life.
Don’t get to intimidate by reading above situations and do not assume that you can’t get lower policy rate because we are giving you some tips which will help you to lower your insurance quote.
1. You can reduce chances of theft or damage to your car by parking it in the secure area like garage or some paid parking area because in this situation company will give you lower quotation.
2. If you have good driving record then companies will offer you good driver discounts.
BREATHER — As you pause on reading this article I hope it has so far provided you with insightful information related to car insurance for women. Even if it hasn’t so far, the remainder will, whether your interest is car insurance for women directly or other related angle such as group health insurance, insurance crash test, cheap car insurance quote UK, best price on car insurance, looking for cheap car insurance and online car insurance estimate.
Free Related Guideline About car insurance for women
3. If you have good credit report then it will equate with lower coverage rates. If you have a questionable credit rating then company will see you as a higher risk customer.
4. You can install some security devices in your car in order to get lower insurance rate.
5. If you can afford to pay higher deductible then you can lower your policy rates. This is an amount which you will be paying when an accident takes place.
6. If you own an older car look into dropping such things as collision and comprehensive insurance. It may not be cost effective if the value of your car is low.
7. Enquire about discounts and debates. Most of the companies generally offer various discounts to their customers look for them and see if you might qualify for them.
As detailed as this article is, don’t forget that you can find more information about car insurance for women or any such information from any of the search engines out there such as . Commit yourself to finding specific information therein about car insurance for women, and you will.
Many people that searched for car insurance for women also searched online for cheap car insurance for young women, monthly car insurance, and even a car cheapest driver insurance young.
LAST THOUGHTS — Lots of people who read this article agreed that it not only helped in their quest for car insurance for women information but also car insurance in Ireland, online life insurance, car insurance young, on line auto insurance quotes, cheap car insurance USA and other cheap car insurance Ireland related information.…
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.…
The E85 movement, which is based on an alternate fuel consisting of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline, is getting an additional boost thanks to a recent decision by General Motors to expand its existing line up from 9 models to 14. This increase will mean that General Motors, which already has nearly 2 million E85 vehicles on the road, will be able to produce as many as 400,000 E85 vehicles per year. For proponents of alternate fuel sources, the decision by General Motors is certainly a welcome one. Let?s take a look at GM?s expanding E85 fleet and what this could mean for you, the fuel conscious motorist.
E85 has been around for well over a decade now, but has only recently has it been the focus of such widespread attention. Credit gas prices exceeding $3 per gallon for interest in E85 and you can see why General Motors is continuing to expand its line up to meet the demand for alternate fuel sources.
The Current Line Up
GM?s current fleet of E85 vehicles now numbers nine. GM?s Silverado, Tahoe, Impala, Monte Carlo, Avalanche, Sierra, Suburban, Yukon, and Yukon XL currently make up the entire fleet of E85 capable vehicles produced by the automaker. The bulk of GM?s E85 sales have come since 2000, however the automaker had been building E85 capable vehicles for many years prior to the turn of the millennium. DaimlerChrysler and Ford also build tens of thousands of E85 vehicles per year.
Expanding on the Theme
General Motors is planning to add five new models for 2007 including the Chevrolet Uplander, its crossover van offering. Other models have yet to be named, but they will likely include similar sized vehicles.
Shortages Persist/Limited Availability
While E85?s appeal remains strong, limited pump availability and fuel shortages have put a strain on the market. Most of the ethanol currently used is derived from corn a readily available food and fuel source in the U.S. However, refineries and pump availability is limited outside of the Midwest, making E85 totally unavailable in some areas. With GM?s help, new stations and increased capacity are coming online. Fortunately, if E85 is not available in a particular area, each vehicle can still run on straight gasoline.
Fuel Economy and Performance
Another area that must be acknowledged is overall fuel economy. While ethanol does produce a nice boost in overall performance, it does impact fuel mileage reducing it by 25-30% on some models. When E85 prices are 50 or 60 cents lower than gasoline, this is not a problem. However, with E85 demand being high, prices are only 5 or 10 cents lower in most areas. Certainly, consumers could find themselves paying even more overall for fuel by electing to go with E85 at various times.
A Cleaner Environment
Beyond price and fuel economy, there is one huge benefit to using E85: harmful pollutants are greatly reduced. With only a small percentage of gasoline consumed compared to straight gasoline or diesel fuel, greenhouse gas emissions drop significantly which is clearly better for the environment.
A Temporary Fix or a Wave to be Ridden?
Finally, E85 may be considered only a temporary fix especially if other forms of fuel efficient vehicles catch on. Hybrids remain an attractive alternative for some, biodiesel is growing in strength, and hydrogen powered cars are only a few years away. Still, E85 is more then a fad, but it does need some government intervention in order to succeed. Whether the federal government does intervene remains to be seen, but if consumer sentiment continues to rise, that may all become a moot point.…
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.…
Automotive troubleshooting is one of the easiest ways to figure out what the heck is wrong with your car. It could simply be that a wire needs to be replaced or plugged back in. Things do vibrate loose under the hood of your car on occasion. It’s always best to make sure that it’s not something simple before you run off to the mechanic’s and start dumping hundreds of dollars into your car. Finding and replacing the problem could be very simple for you to do yourself instead of paying a mechanic to replace expensive parts that were never needed in the first place.
With the economy in it’s current state, it is imperative that families are able to diagnose and repair their automobiles themselves without the need to hire a mechanic.
Families are trying to cut their cost any way they can and automobile repairs is one area that can be costly and often an unexpected expense that places a burden on an already tight budget.
There are many websites available for you to look at information that will assist you with your automotive troubleshooting needs. Often just by reading problems that are common with your type of automobile will help you to figure out what is wrong with it.
It’s always nice to be able to talk with an experienced mechanic if you have one available to you. They will often be able to tell you what the problem with your automobile is in just a few minutes. They can even give you some great advice on how to go about fixing it.…
Government car auctions are held in various locations and at different times of the year. In most cases though, it is regularly held at various intervals – such as annual or quarterly basis. It is often a go-to event for those interested to purchase second-hand vehicles in good running condition for a bargain price. In fact, those who manage to look around the showcased vehicles at the auction well enough get to enjoy some major steal.
But what is it about government car auctions that auto consumers flock them? It is an auction that showcases nearly all types of vehicles imaginable, whether you want to get an SUV, sedan, minivan, pickup truck, or convertibles. These vehicles are repossessed by the government due to various reasons such as tax evasion, failure to pay installments, or vehicles involved in serious crimes. Although these automobiles that are featured in government auctions are pre-owned, you can also find ones that have been used for a short period of time and are there as good as new.
There are two types of government car auctions that consumers can check out: live and online auctions. In a live auction, you must attend a specific venue where the auction is held and you can physically examine the vehicles you want. Online auctions have only been introduced by the government recently to enable more people to access the vehicles they want. However, if the auction is held close to where you live, then it is recommended that you join the live auction so you can see the actual vehicle you are about to purchase.
Anyone aged 18 years and above with a valid driver’s license are qualified to buy vehicles at the auction. One benefit to attending government car auctions is that consumers are not charged with registration or buyers’ fee. The only cost involved here is the payment for the vehicle you have purchased at the auction.
Another common dilemma for those who are interested to partake in these auctions is the lack of knowledge when it comes to locating them. You can perform manual search by contacting each of the individual offices for the local government to get the information you need. You can also perform research online via auction directory services to see if any auctions are listed in your area. There are certain charges that apply when conducting search for these directories but if you want to save time and money in the long term it should be worth it.
Make sure you have scanned through your options well at government car auctions before agreeing to buy or bid. If possible, determine a budget before you even arrive at the venue since you can get overwhelmed with the number of vehicles on display.…
When you see houses that have a look like they belong in magazines, do you wish that your home can look like that, too? There is no need to wish your house could be decorated nicely. You can transform Remodeling your home to look like those in the magazines. What is important is that you get good information. This article will show you some ways you can turn your house into a magazine photographic home.
When designing an office, make sure the space is functional. Lighting is a very important part of an office, and so is the chair and desk. Add visual interest to your work space, to make it more interesting.
Before starting any interior decoration, de-clutter your home. Virtually every house needs a thorough cleanup from time to time. Empty your closets and get rid of anything you no longer need. You can donate your items to charities, recycle them or have a garage sale to make some extra cash.
Any interior design project should result in an uncluttered look for the room. Sometimes less really is more. Cramming your room full of furniture and accessories can make the room feel small. Instead, select a few key pieces of furniture, and create as much open space as possible.
Do not rush when you are painting. If you do, you may wind up with a color that you grow to hate. Allow a few days between getting your paint samples and actually purchasing the paint. See how everything comes together under different lighting conditions. This way, you’ll know if a color you thought you loved turned into a bad choice due to mid-day light.
It’s unnecessary to just wish; you can make your dreams a reality. By utilizing the advice provided in this article, you can transform your home into a beautiful piece of art you will love. There is no reason that you should feel that you can not have that, as you have been given the right tools to do so.…
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.…
Are Cheap Cars Really Cheap To Own?
I know that the sticker price is very important to most auto shoppers. This is true if people are looking for a new or used vehicle. However, the actual price of the vehicle should just be one factor to consider. It may not really illustrate the cost of owning a vehicle very well at all!
Consider an obvious example. A lot of people are trying to sell their gas guzzlers for very cheap prices today. You may not pay much for the used vehicle, but with rising gas prices, keeping it fueled can be a larger expense than paying for the car. In addition, if you have not done your homework, you may take home a used car with some mechanical problems. Repair costs can eat into your budget too. All of a sudden, the bargain you picked up at the used car lot is not looking like a very good choice any longer.
Sometimes, paying more for the vehicle, and getting a car that is easy on fuel and does not need major repairs, ends up being a much more frugal choice. Before you purchase a vehicle it is a good idea to have it checked out, and to do some research on fuel economy.
I gave a used car as my first example. However, you can have the same problem if you are shopping for a brand new car from the dealer’s lot. The low end economy car may seem like a great deal. It may even have great gas mileage and a warranty that will save you from a lot of extra costs.
However, you also need to consider the cost of insuring your new car. If you look at a list of the least expensive cars to cover, you will find a lot of minivans, sturdy SUVs, and even some pickups on the list. The lowest priced, economy models may actually cost more to cover. If you have purchased an inexpensive car to control car payments, but then end up with an expensive insurance bill, you may not have really gotten such a good deal after all.
You might have paid $50 a month less for your compact car than you would have for the slightly larger SUV. But you may end up sinking that extra cash into insurance. You could have paid the same total amount of money, and ended up with a more expensive car.
Are Used Cars Always Cheaper?
If you want to buy a reliable used vehicle to save money, be sure it will really save you money in the long run. Some financing companies charge higher interest rates for used car purchases. The difference in interest rates can mean higher car payments in the end. You also have to check into how much money you might save by getting a new car with a good warranty.
Some new cars have advanced safety features which also make then less expensive to insure than used cars. If you want to estimate the cost an auto policy, you cannot always go by the vehicle sales price either!
What Is The Cost Of Car Ownership?
You have to consider the total cost of car ownership. This is not always possible to predict, but you can find out a lot about most makes and models. Look into estimated repair bills, warranty coverage, the cost of an auto policy, and available financing. These are important factors, and they can change the equation much more than the selling price of the car!…
Classic cars are loved by many, and people go to great lengths to form collections of these models. They invest a lot of time and money into their passion, and do everything they can to make sure the cars stay looking nice. As such, it’s a good idea for collectors to take out collectible car insurance, which takes their unique situation in mind and protect their investments.
As a collector, you’ll have to know you will need to spend a bit more on your insurance. The price is worth it for what you get. Still, you shouldn’t worry about paying based on the stated value of the car as, in most cases, the insurance will take the true value into account instead. This keeps you from having to spend too much more on your expensive hobby.
Insurance seems common sense enough that you’d expect everyone to have it. Yet less than half of people with classic car collections do. Usually, they don’t ever realize that they have a better option than the insurance options they’ve already taken out, which can have premiums as much as 500 percent of what they should be. Such costs rarely apply with the right kind of insurance.
If you’ve decided to get collector car insurance, you need to look at the types available, taking your value options into consideration. Cash value gives you the given value back while state value gives you the option to name the value yourself. Both this options depreciate with time. The only one that won’t is agreed value, where you get everything back if something causes the car to be lost completely.
You will need to consider one thing before you just run out and get the first insurance you can find – that is, figuring out if your car is indeed a classic. This might seem obvious, but it can actually be quite hard to determine. Thankfully, there are people who know a lot about that thing and will be able to help you find out the information you need to know.
After you’re sure your car fits the necessary requirements, you can look into the collectible car insurance, but must first figure out the true value in order to know just how much you’ll need. This process isn’t exactly fun and you might want to skip it, but you won’t know what you need to if you do. It’s something you’ll have to do before you can get insured.
With the help you get looking into the value, you will typically learn of the things that help determine it. These typically include the model, age, and condition of the car, and will set a rate based on the quality. Rareness contributes a good deal as well, as does any historical significance your car might have. Both of these will lead to higher values.
At last, you can pick an collector car insurance company. Compare quotes before coming to a final decision or you might get stuck with something you don’t want. Once you’ve avoided this, though, you should be happy with whatever decision you make.…
Taking a trip far from home can be an incredible experience. Driving in another country or continent is a fun filled adventure for most. But there are certain legal aspects that must always be dealt with before you attempt to drive anywhere foreign. Car insurance is a major issue. Having it in your home country does not always make it applicable elsewhere. Car insurance requirements can vary depending where it is you are traveling. So you will have to do some homework before you can head out. The last thing you need is to have some kind of insurance battle after an accident occurs and you are stuck having to pay for the damage.
Start doing your insurance research well in advance, as soon as you know that you plan to travel. If you wait too long you may have a hard time getting everything together in time for your departure. Driving without insurance is incredibly risky and should never be done. Don?t wait until the last minute to inquire about insurance. It is designed to make your trip go much more smoothly, not hinder it.
Insurance requirements may vary based on whether or not you plan to take your own personal vehicle or not. If you want to drive your own car, get in touch with your insurance company and ask if they offer foreign coverage. If they do not, they should be able to direct you to a resource that does. Likewise, if you plan to use a rental car then you will have to go over all of the insurance details with the rental company. Make sure that you get it all in writing so there is no confusion in the event of an accident.
In many cases you will actually have to purchase insurance in the country that you are planning to visit. This can be difficult if you do not know how to go about it. This is another way your own insurance agent should be able to help you. They should be able to refer you to a reputable insurance company in another place or at least assist you in finding one.
It?s absolutely necessary to get acquainted with all of the traffic rules and laws in the country you will be driving in. Do some research online if you have never been there before. Make notes of anything that you feel you may forget. Though driving is similar in most places, there are always things that differ. Pleading ignorance will get you nowhere if you cause an accident so learn the laws and always obey them.
It certainly doesn?t hurt to ask about what will happen in the event of a mishap. If you were to be involved in an incident, knowing how it could affect you financially and insurance wise could be beneficial. If anything, you will avoid nasty surprises later. Foreign car insurance is a must if you plan to drive outside your home country. Put everything in place so that you can drive without worry.…
We try to give our vehicles the longest shelf life possible, as we want to save money and keep them running for as long as we can. Every so often, we must deal with some serious problems that are going to cost us a decent amount of money. A transmission replacement is one of these various issues that, while expensive, are still cheaper than buying a new car.
If you know that you need a transmission replacement, you should look to find the automotive shop that can handle your repair needs. These different tips are going to help you to find the right shop for your repairs.
Look for Certifications
If you are in need of a transmission replacement, look for auto shops that have certifications. At the very least, you will want shops that feature ASE certified technicians. These individuals have gone through specific training for one specific area (or more) of the vehicle.
If you can, find a location that has an ASE Master Technician. This individual has become certified in all of the various areas of the vehicle and will be best equipped to handle your transmission replacement.
Look for Popularity
One of the easiest ways for you to spot an automotive shop that can handle your transmission replacement and make you happy with their service is to look for popularity. Look for shops that constantly have a long waiting time, or shops that have a wealth of positive reviews on online review websites. These places generally have reasonable prices and are known for their friendly staff members and impeccable service. Places that have constant openings generally have a lack of customers for a reason.
Look for a Quick Turnaround Time
In the end, you want to get the transmission replacement that you need at a price you can afford – but you want it done as quickly as possible. Look for places that are going to be able to handle this specific repair as quickly as possible. Let the shop know that time is a priority for you, and that you are shopping around to find the shop who can get your job done as quickly as possible. They may be able to bump up your time and get you on the road as quickly as possible.
It is important for all car owners to give serious thought to the shop that handles their repairs. You should work to understand as much as you can about all of your options and choose the one that meets your needs. There are certain shops that are going to be able to handle the transmission replacement better than others. These tips will make it easy for you to find the right one.…
When your transmission starts to give you problems or goes out completely, it is imperative that you get your car to a quality transmission repair shop. The first step in finding one is to get an accurate and fair quote on the costs of labor, parts and repair.
As a rule, never get a quote over the phone but in person. The costs should be outlined in writing and handed to you. This protects you from hidden costs that can be added on later. A phone quote that is not backed up in writing will give you no protection, as the price can easily change once you get to the shop.
When you need a quote, take your car to the shop. One that offers a quality auto repair service will first take the car for a drive to see if the issues are connected to your transmission. If the problem is suspected, the shop will examine the car to see if an outside problem is the cause. If the mechanic finds that no outside variables are the culprit, the transmission then has to be removed, taken part and thoroughly examined to find the problem’s source. The car can also be hooked to a computer and have a diagnostic run to find the problem.
Once the cause is known, you can receive an accurate outlay of the repair costs. Transmission service that is honest doesn’t offer fast deals without examining your vehicle first. The professional will do a thorough inspection and sit down with you face to face to tell you what is wrong and how much it will cost to repair. Be very cautious when you shop around for a quality mechanic.
Follow your instincts and stay clear of places that offer you a deal that is too good, as there may be hidden expenses hidden below the surface. When you have agreed to the repairs, be on the lookout if you start receiving repeated calls to do more work at a higher price. If the shop has inspected your vehicle and found the problem, there should not be new ones popping up that will keep raising your final repair bill.
A quality transmission repair shop will keep you informed, diagnose the problem after a complete inspection and give you a fair quote. An honest mechanic is one that you can come back to over the life of your vehicle to take care of any problems you may have. Many shops will also handle car air conditioning repair. This assures you that you have a shop you can trust with your car and can have peace of mind that any repairs will be handled with professionalism and attention to detail.…
Don’t you wish that you can buy cheap used cars that look and feel nice on the road? Maybe even buy your dream car, nice and shiny, but at an insanely small price compared to its original price tag? Ah, dream no more because there is a way to get an amazing car at an amazing price. The way is Government Auction Cars! Let me tell you about that and how you can use these auctions to your advantage.
Now, don’t go out telling your friends and colleagues about this just yet. Firstly because dealers don’t like to publicly advertise these auctions since they’d get people hoarding up at the auction and leaving the car dealer’s day job empty and penniless. So don’t ask car dealers about these auctions for advice because their best interest is to keep it away from you. You can’t blame them really, right?
But check this out. You can get a nice new shiny car for only a few thousand dollars of the original price. That’s right, you can get some cars at a few hundred dollars too if they are older.
Listen to this advice if you want to get lucky with the car auctions: bring a trusted car expert that you know you can depend on. Why? Because you want someone who is more familiar with what a good, used car looks like. This is also because the government may not have seen a flaw in the car that you ought to be aware of, not just for your ease of mind and safety while driving that car, but also because of how you can bid less on the original asking price if the flaw is acknowledged.
Finally, make sure you figure out how you would want to pay for the car that you will bid on. Payment plans generally include making payments in cold cash, check, installments, or a combination of two. Do your best to get this important arrangement done clearly and completely before closing the deal.…
Have you ever wondered why some people are able to keep changing their cars? You may think they have a lot of extra money to spend. Well, it may be true or untrue as well. If you have ever heard Government seized car auctions, you may now realize that it is possible for the average person to keep changing his car without spending too much money.
Purchasing a brand new car is mostly an expensive affair. You may enjoy driving it on the road but whether you realize it or not, its depreciation is rolling as well. To make it worse, fuel pain will still burden you even with a new car. Total cost of a car which consists of fuel costs, taxes and all the expenses plus the installment itself can possibly be unaffordable to some of us. You now can see why Government seized car auctions will be your perfect answer to having your dream car
Where did Government get those cars? They usually come from tax evasion or other seizure laws that lead to those cars being seized by Government. Government then auctions all those cars away to public because Government needs cash to compensate the loss due to that kind of tax evasion. Even though the cars are not new but some of them are only few months old. So they will feel and look like new.
The vehicles available at Government seized car auctions can be in a wide selection. And if you know what these auctions can offer, you will rush down there as fast as you can. The bids usually start at very low prices and very often the price tags are between 90 – 95% off the retail dealer price. We can say that you can get an almost new car at $2500 while its original retail price stays at $25,000. But be alerted, you are not the only want that rushes into this hunt. Many used car dealers also go to these auctions to buy a few nice cars for higher profit margins.
Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately!) not many people know much about these auctions. If they know where the place is, they don’t know when it takes place or vice versa. It happens because the auctions go around the country from state to state through out the year. So, the information is the power here. If you know more than other people, your chance to win your dream car is bigger than theirs. And these events are surely a lot better than wasting your valuable time dealing with untrustworthy or cheap talking used car dealers.
Technically the auctions are like any other auction. You can view the cars and perform necessary physical checks. After you are sure with your choice, go bid it. But remember, you must know the limit. Just don’t engage yourself in a bidding competition with another bidder if you don’t know how much your chosen car is worth.…
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.…
The call for better fuel alternatives is being held and heard all around the global community. Different sectors are already making their contributions in the development of alternative fuels that will reduce the dependency of the human race on non-renewable fossil fuel supply. Governments and private sectors across the globe have been making steps in researching and developing better fuel alternatives. Private individuals have also joined in the cause of developing better sources of energy and fuel.
Recently, Jack and Susan Taylor gave the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center $25 million to create the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Institute for Renewable Fuels. As the name suggests, the institute will be doing works related to the identification and development of better alternative fuels. The institute is named after the Enterprise Rent-A-Car which is car rental service that was founded by Jack Taylor back in 1957.
The gift made by the Taylors will increase the speed at which the development in the alternative fuel industry is being made. The development and subsequent use of these alternative fuels will significantly decrease the amount of greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere. This is because they will be developing fuels that will burn cleaner than fossil fuels. These fuels will be a good step in addressing the threat posed by global warming to the entire human populace.
Dr. William H. Danforth, the chairman of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, has this to say about the $25 million gift: ?We are very grateful to jack and Susan Taylor for their generous gift to expand the Danforth Center?s basic research in plant science and address the growing need for biofuels. This gift establishes a truly unique partnership to address an important issue for future generations by utilizing the latest advances in plant science.?
Danforth Center?s team of researchers will use the $25 million gift to further expand the center?s capability in the research for better renewable sources of energy. Aside from the $25 million given to the Danforth Center, the Enterprise Rent-A-Car has also pledged to fund the planting of 50 million trees in the country?s national forests over the next 50 years. Converted to current monetary value, the Enterprise Rent-A-Car will be spending another $50 million.
After the donation of the $25 million by Jack and Susan Taylor, Andrew Taylor, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Enterprise Rent-A-Car has this to say: ?For 50 years, this company that my father built from the ground up has relied on the availability of vehicles and fuel. Today, more than ever, it is essential that we pursue new energy sources that will sustain not only our business, but also the environment around us for future generations. The creation of the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Institute for Renewable Fuels sends a clear message that my family and our company are committed to help address this critical public need.?
The newly created institute will be headed by a distinguished scientific leader in the renewable biofuel field. Though the center has yet to name the said scientist, they are positive that under his or her leadership, the institute will be making great advances in the alternative fuel field. To support the expansion of the center?s research capability, an additional 12 new scientists will be hired over the next three years. They will join the 18 scientists currently employed by the center.
From the dedication that every sector is showing in the development of alternative fuels, it seems that the global community is finally addressing the global warming issue. These steps are done in hope that they would act like EBC Greenstuff brake parts in putting a stop to the deterioration of the environment.…
Most drivers will be aware of the different types of car insurance, but there is sometimes uncertainty over the description of what you are covered for when it comes to going to and from work. A common term in insurance is ‘domestic and pleasure.’ This means normal day-to-day driving, such as visiting family or friends, a weekend break, or shopping. But it is unlikely to include commuting to work. If you are using your car to go to and from work and your insurance policy only covers domestic and pleasure then you will be effectively driving uninsured, as the policy will not usually cover you for this purpose.
Although car insurance companies might each their own interpretation of what you can and can’t do under domestic and pleasure, it is unlikely that they will include commuting in this. Even an occasional work related trip is unlikely to be covered. The problem for drivers is that as soon as they use their car for any purpose other than what they are insured for, they are driving without insurance and therefore driving illegally.
The penalties for driving for reasons other than what you are covered for can involve a fine, court appearances, or worse. Therefore it is important that you read the small print on the policy you buy and understand exactly what the definitions of cover mean. Even dropping someone you know off at their place of work can be considered driving uninsured if you are not covered for it, so it is essential to make sure you are covered. If you are buying your car insurance through a comparison site online, then make sure you detail what type of insurance you need for your driving needs, and ensure that you give as much detail as possible.
Once you’ve been given a list of policies to choose from, go through each of them carefully and check that you have not missed anything that might leave you uncovered for the use you intend to make of your vehicle. Including ‘commuting’ on your car policy and explaining to the insurance company any other work related driving you might need to do will help them get the policy that’s right for you.
Commuting is commonly defined as driving to and from a permanent place of work, or travelling to a destination en route such as a railway station. It is important to check if your car insurance can include other types of driving such as one off business trips. You may be able to get cover for specific business use activities as well. Commonly you will need ‘business use: class 1’ for driving to different work sites that are not your permanent place of work, but it won’t usually include delivering goods. You are likely to need ‘business use: class 2’ to add another named driver to the policy for the same driving activities as class 1. If you plan to deliver light goods for work reasons then you will need to get ‘business use: class 3’ added to your car insurance policy.
With the different options available, and different definitions across the insurance companies, as well as a varying prices and conditions, it is worth using an online comparison site to get the car insurance that is right for your needs. The important thing is not to get caught out by driving uninsured for work related reasons. A comparison site should give you all the information you need to make an informed decision, and hopefully save you money in the process by enabling you to compare car insurance prices.…
If you are shopping for auto accessories and parts, buying online makes sense for a variety of reasons. Online parts and accessories retailers offer the largest selection, and usually cheaper prices. In addition, shopping online for auto accessories saves an enormous amount of time and energy. After all, who wants to visit one auto parts store after the next in search of a particular part or accessory?
And when you shop online, you cut out the middleman, creating the potential for big savings. It’s also easier to compare prices, guarantees and refund policies side by side when shopping online, as well as locating product reviews posted by other buyers. This is an excellent way to make sure you don’t get stuck with a part or accessory that does not fit properly, or buy from a company that is unreliable.
No matter how well made auto parts are, with time they can deteriorate through normal wear and tear and eventually need replacement. In fact, normal wear to individual auto parts causes more car problems than any other means.
Simple parts such as alternators, catalytic converters, belts, fans and headlights are all easy to replace and relatively inexpensive, however, they are some of the most commonly purchased auto parts because of excessive wear and tear.
But no matter if you simply need to purchase a fan belt, or an entire rebuilt transmission, shopping online for parts and accessories is sure to be more convenient and quite possibly, less expensive.
Most online parts and accessories web site have a simple search function which allows the user to locate the exact part or accessory they need in just seconds. There’s no need to traverse the entire web site, and read every page in order to find out if they have what you are looking for; you simply enter the item’s name in the search box and you’ll have your answer in a matter of seconds.
Compare this convenience to shopping via telephone; you may have to contact four or five different auto accessory stores, and be put on hold many times, so that a store employee can “check in the back” to find out if they actually have the part you need. And because the Internet is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you never need to concern yourself with whether the parts dealer is open.
But besides the convenience and time-saving aspects of buying car parts and accessories from the comfort of your own PC, by far the greatest advantage of shopping online is the ability to compare prices, features, warranties, and other important information in a side-by-side format. This makes it simple for you to see all of the options available to you at one time, and thus, make a better decision about which part to buy, and which dealer to buy from.
If you are still shopping for auto accessories at the brick and mortar parts stores, consider saving yourself a great deal of money, time and frustration by purchasing your auto accessories online.
Online retailers have made it easier than ever before in history to shop for auto accessories and parts from the comfort of your own home, cutting out the middleman, and providing you with the widest choice of options to replace your cars parts or accessories.…
Buying a good used car for teenagers is definitely important both for their safety and your peace of mind. Knowing what to look for will help you and your teen find the right car for their circumstances. Here is help in how to find good used cars for teenagers.
The two most important things to look for when buying a car for a teen is: safety of the car and gas mileage. Those two factors will be looked at in this article.
Hopefully you’ve already traveled with the teenager in question so you have an idea of their capabilities behind the wheel. If you haven’t, do so immediately. You need to get an idea of their skill level and handling ability before you start shopping around.
You need to work out how it’s being paid for and what the budget should be. From there, have a look online to see what sort of cars are available and in what condition. Consider traveling to larger cities for better deals.
Talk to your teen about their wants and needs. If they don’t need a lot of space, consider hatchback or smaller sedan models that are generally more economic when it comes to gas. They are also easier to maneuver on the road which can lead to greater control.
If your teen is paying for the gas then fuel economy is vitally important. Most cars and their mileage ratings can be found online or my visiting dealerships in your town. There are some hybrid models that are just hitting the used car market, and are worth considering, however have them checked mechanically for any battery issues or problems with their quality.
Look into the information available online about the history of potential purchases using their VIN number. Also look at general information on specific makes and models and see whether the reviews and comments you find meet the safety requirements you want for your teenager.
Buying a good used car for teenagers is important. Have it mechanically checked regardless of where it comes from and what the seller tells you. Make sure the teen feels safe and comfortable in the driver’s seat and have them test drive if at all possible because they will be the one using the car.
Look at the available safety features on newer used cars and consider what you would feel most comfortable including, and what is on your must-have list. If you find cars with these features, check that they are in working order – don’t assume anything in a used car is working. Get a pre-purchase inspection every time.
Once you have found the ideal car, give your teen some thinking time. Don’t jump into an impulse purchase. Try to strike a balance between style and safety if that is important to your teen. Consider a better deal on a car and get it pained rather than paying a premium for a less ideal vehicle in the ‘right’ color. Color should not be the deciding factor in vehicle purchase though you will probably come up against some opposition to that theory with your teen. So be prepared.
If you do your homework you can buy a good, safe used car for a teenager will set them up and give you peace of mind when they are on the road.…
In case you have not yet noticed, there is an economic crisis in progress at the moment. A lot of companies are going under and a lot of people are losing their jobs left right and centre. The cost of living is going up and the salaries are not going up along with it. People need to find way s to save as much money as possible. One of the ways that you can do this is to look at cheap cars instead of the kind of cars you would normally go for.
One of the things that cheap cars are great for is reducing the monthly repayments that you will have to make on your car. Because the car costs less you will have to take out a smaller loan to be able to pay for the car. This means that your repayments on that loan will be smaller as you do not owe as much to the bank. This makes getting from month to month a great deal easier as your monthly expenses are less.
The cars that are considered to be cheap cars are also generally small cars. This means that they are generally a lot more economical to run. This means that you are going to be able to spend a lot less each month on things like fuel and oil. The car is smaller and that means that it will use less fuel to get the same amount of forward momentum as a larger car with a similar sized and mapped engine would be able to.
Cheap cars are also great for things like learner drivers. They are cheap to buy and therefore they are cheap to repair. This means that if your child happens to crash the car and do some damage the repairs will not cost too much since the parts for the car are going to be a lot cheaper than for some other kinds of vehicle. This makes them ideal for people on a small budget or are accident prone. This makes them ideal for people who are new to driving or learning to drive as they are likely to crash and will need to repair their car from time to time.
In general, cheap cars are really affordable for a number of reasons. They do not cost a great deal to purchase, they do not cost a great deal to run, they do not cost a great deal to repair if they are damaged either. All in all, cheap cars are a great buy if you want to save money.
If course, if you do take this options then you may need to do a bit of research before you commit to a particular car. You want to be sure that the car is reliable and safe as well as cheap. You do not want to be saving money on the cost of your car and then end up spending it on repairs and maintenance on the car. The point of a cheap car is to save money not spend it.…
Driving in a dark is like fighting with the death as without car lights, there are full chances that a person might see his life in danger. People love to drive in different ways. Some people like it doing normally while there are others who do it in a rash way as they think that they look stylish. Think if you are blind folded and asked to drive in such a way. I think it will be the real and first experience for you. That is way cars have been designed with different types of lights like tail lights, headlights, bumper lights, fog lights and corner lights. Different types of lights come up with different specifications, features, appearance and of course quality.
Headlights are considered to be the most important light type in any car. The reason of their importance is that they make it easy for an individual to ride their cars even in dark with complete safety. These lights are like a necessity and their work is not limited up to fashion. Yes making your car appearance good and awesome is also essential, but the major purpose of these lights is making your path visible in dark. There are different types of head lamps available in the market that we usually use depending up the technology they are based on. Some of them are:…
In a time of recession it becomes very difficult to buy a new very cheap car. So what are the alternatives to that? Most people don’ realize that during a recession many hidden opportunities appear. One such opportunity is that every month many luxury cars get auctioned: this is a great chance to buy a normally very expensive car at only a fraction of its initial value.
Well my first inhibitions was that buying an auctioned car could be something very complicated. I couldn’t be more wrong. So I started searching the Internet to find any sites that provide information on how to purchase such cars. I’ve had a hard time to find a really good site that will provide such information but after several days of searching, I finally struck gold.
I signed myself are started immediately looking through the lists and oh boy was I surprised. I found cars that normally cost over $25,000 at prices of less than $4000. The surprise came when I found a nice Honda S2000 which normally sells for $22,000 at the staggering price of only $3000.
I have never, ever in my life grabbed my wallet that fast.
From that point on I realized that there was a business opportunity here. I proceeded buying several cars which I re-sold later for double and triple the initial price. The last six months only I have made more than $25,000 by just making three simple transactions. Total working time: less than four days.…
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.…
The Nashville International Auto Show is about to open its doors to the public on the sixth of April. In connection with this, the Toyota Motor Corporation announced that they will be bringing their ?Highway to the Future: Mobile Hybrid Experience? to the said event.
The Japanese car manufacturer announced the schedule of their tour on the 26th of March. The company says that the experience is aimed to let consumers experience driving their hybrid vehicles like the very popular Toyota Prius aside from the Camry and Highlander hybrid vehicles. These entire three models will come to feature and sport around the company?s Hybrid Synergy Drive System which allows them to make the most of the capability of the electric motor integrated into their vehicles.
Aside from the hands-on experience, Toyota will also be offering other interactive learning activities for the attendees. These four learning areas will be part of Toyota’s exhibit at the Nashville Auto Show. One of these four interactive educational exhibits is the ?Alternative Fuel: Fueling the Future? exhibit. This interactive part of Toyota’s show tackles the different alternative fuels which may, one day, totally replace gasoline as the fuel of the world. Some of these alternative fuels are biodiesel, hydrogen, and bio-ethanol.
Aside from identifying these alternative fuels, Toyota will also be educating the attendees on how each and every one of these alternative fuels are produced.
Another interactive learning experience is the ?Environment and Resources: Small Steps, Big Difference?. This, meanwhile, tackles the different ways how the attendees can help in the protection of the environment in their own little way. This shows Toyota’s concern for the environment and it seems to be already manifested in their lineup of fuel efficient vehicles. These vehicles are more fuel thrifty than a vehicle equipped with a Mercury cold air intake system.
The third interactive educational display at Toyota’s exhibit is the ?Prius Driving Experience? and aside from the actual test drive, Toyota allows attendees of the event to take advantage of a Prius driving simulation. Another part of Toyota’s exhibit is the ?Hybrid Technology: Not All Hybrids are Created Equal? and this one educates the attendees just about what hybrid technology is and where it is found and in what vehicle.
Aside from identifying the hybrid technologies employed by different vehicles, Toyota also highlights each technology?s benefit to the environment and the consumer.
The 2007 Nashville International Auto Show will start on the sixth of April and will run until the eighth of the month. Toyota’s hands-on exhibit will start from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. on the dates April 6 and 7. On April 8, the driving experience for Toyota’s hybrid will run from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
The ?Highway to the Future: Mobile Hybrid Experience will be held at the LP Field. To promote the driving experience to attendees of the motor show, a free shuttle service will be provided to take attendees to the LP Field.…
The Ford Motor Company may be suffering blows on their home turf but their subsidiary in Europe is receiving award after awards for the S-Max – the best selling crossover utility vehicle from Ford of Europe. The Ford S-Max has already received awards and praises from different groups in the auto industry.
Consumers have also spoken in favor of the S-Max as shown in the high sale of the vehicle. More recently, Germany?s largest car magazine, the AutoBild, with its 23 sister publications in Europe, gave the Ford S-Max the distinction of being the ?Auto 1 of Europe?. Aside from being dubbed as such, the S-Max is also gunning for the trophy in its class – the minivan category.
The award was presented during the Auto 1 Gala Event at Espace S?cheron in Geneva. The prestigious award was presented by Dr. Andreas Wiele, the Chairman of the magazine division at Axel Springer AG. John Fleming, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Ford of Europe, and Bernhard Mattes, the Chairman of the Management Board at Ford Werke GmbH were present at the said event to jointly receive the award.
?This is fantastic news and these awards fill us with pride,? says Fleming. ?Together with the other awards that have been won by the Ford S-MAX this latest accolade shows that this car has touched a nerve with the public and the specialist media,? he added. Riding on the momentum of the achievement of the S-Max, Ford of Europe will be launching the Ford Mondeo in the European auto market. “For us, this is further proof that our renewed emphasis on dynamic new products that connect emotionally with customers is making a positive contribution to Ford of Europe’s business success. We are confident that the all-new Ford Mondeo will continue this momentum and generate similar interest and enthusiasm when we launch this summer,? Fleming added further.
Aside from being dubbed as the ?Auto 1 of Europe?, the S-Max also won the ?Car of the Year 2007?. The number of victories for the crossover utility vehicle, which is now over fifteen national or individual magazine awards, serves as an Accel ignition system which sparks the interest of the European motorists not only on the S-Max but also for other Ford vehicles sold in the European car market.
The Ford of Europe is also planning to launch a smaller version of the Ford S-Max to further boost the sales of Ford vehicles in the continent. Aside from the Ford Mondeo, Ford of Europe will also be offering the smaller C-Max, the smaller sibling of the S-Max. Ford of Europe hopes that the addition of the Mondeo and the C-Max to their lineup will continue their good successes in the European market.…
1. The Problem With Dealerships
Imagine walking into a gleaming car dealership and being taken aback by the wonder of it all. Truly envision those new cars on the showroom floor. Picture that Mustang convertible sitting in the center of the marble tiled floor. Just visualize the little, red Chevrolet Corvette. Maybe a Ferrari Dealership — dream of that bright, red 430 Ferrari Spider with black interior with red, hand sown trim and just a touch of accent to make you know how fast this car can go. Aww, and the scent of the brand new leather seats… Breathe again. Smell the aroma of a room packed with new cars and the rubber of those Goodyear tires. The taste of money permeates the whole place.
Whose money?
Your money!
You are here to get the car of your dreams. Before you even walk in, you are fantasizing about driving down the Pacific Coast Highway, or Main Street of your hometown. You dream of yourself winding down the road, hugging the curves, your fantasy date (or your spouse) by your side with your hair blowing in the breeze. Feel the wind and hear your radio as it drowns out all of your cares. Crank up your favorite tunes and make this your ultimate road trip. You are in love with your new car. You are now going to make your dream a reality and go get that sweet ride!
You suffered through the purchase process. You made the purchase! You’re even more in love with yourself. You outsmarted the car guys and have your baby.
Now….
You go by the neighbors’ house. You must show off this prize. You drive everywhere!
The first day that you buy a new car is the only time errands are fun. You park your new love in the furthest parking spot from the entrance. As you walk to the entrance you turn around at least 10 times just to admire her. Nah, you are really admiring yourself. Congratulations, you outsmarted that car salesman. You stole this one. This time it’s going to be different. There will be no scratches, dents or dings – EVER. This amazing piece of machinery was hand built just for you.
And you live happily ever after?
Not always.
Sorry, but it’s time to WAKE UP! Wake up from your daydream. Of course, the darn thing breaks down! Of course it breaks down at the worst time too.
Now what?…
If you want to learn how to fix your own car, you need to get the best repair auto guide. The good news is that you can find them for free. In order to get a useful guide you need to know what you are looking for. Take your time to learn some useful tips. In order to find free repair auto guide you just need to search online. You can find a lot of guides. For example, you can look for a general manual. There you can find some information about everything. If you want something more specific search for diagnosis descriptions. These can be very useful because they are divided by model. You can also find details about every part of the vehicle. The guide must be easy to understand.
In case you do not know anything about cars, you can find websites that will give you a diagnosis according to the sound your car makes. This is great because you can figure out what needs to be fixed. Once you know what is the problem is you can search for a good repair auto guide. When you know exactly what the problem is just type the words into Google search and you will be amazed of how many free guides you will find. An example would be to search for troubleshooting car starting problems. Make sure you choose the best guide. Try to read a few sentences to see if you understand exactly what you must do to fix your car. Even as a beginner, you should be able to understand. So, if the guide is difficult to read and understand drop it and look for another.
Once you have found a guide that you are happy with print it. Try to have it with you in the car at all times. Now when you are on the road and your car needs to be fixed you will at least have a reference for what to do next. Although this won’t solve all problems, you’ll be surprised how helpful a little knowledge can be.
Another way to have a good auto repair guide is by taking some information from multiple online guides. In other words, try to make your own auto repair manual – a Frankenstein auto manual if you well. All you have to do is use Google to find the most appropriate manuals for various auto problems. Copy the information you think you can use and then print all the pages.
Having an auto repair guide in the car is very important. In certain cases it is invaluable to have even general knowledge with you, especially if you’re far from a mechanic of a tow company.…
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.…
Many people find a Haynes or a Chilton manual to be a very helpful resource when doing their own work. Both manuals provide step-by-step instructions on how to do lots of different jobs, from the simplest to the more complicated. Depending on how much you plan on doing yourself, the manual will pay for itself very quickly.
You’ll also need to invest in some quality tools and safety equipment like a jack, jack stands and wheel chocks. It will take a little longer for these to pay for themselves, but it can be well worth it in the long run.
Changing your car’s oil is often inexpensive if you take it to a local shop or quick lube specialist. You can still save a little extra money if you do it yourself, but there’s a tradeoff. For many people the money saved isn’t enough to spend the time doing their own.
Some prefer to do their own service because they want to be sure it’s done properly. The dealer will tell you the best oil to use, and just about every parts store has a guide to help you select the proper filter. Sometimes you can save even more money by using coupons or store specials. Buy the stuff in advance if you need to, in order to take advantage of the deals.
Changing your air filter is another way to save money, and it’s possibly the easiest car care job you’ll do. On some cars you don’t have to use any tools. On others it might just take a screwdriver. Here again, the parts store will have a guide to show you which filter to get for your particular car.
Changing spark plug is a little more involved, and its difficulty varies from one car to another. But it’s usually done at the novice level with a few simple tools. It’s a job that rarely needs to be done, but there’s money to be saved if you’re willing to put some time into it. You’ll need a ratchet set and maybe an extension. You might need a special socket and many people like to use a torque wrench. Spark plug wires are also easy to change as well. Here again, the manual and parts store can be pretty helpful.
Changing your coolant can be more of a hassle, but it’s still another way you can save money. One of the most important things is to make sure you’re using the proper type of coolant. It used to be that all coolant was the same. That’s no longer the case and the wrong choice can result in damage to your engine. A call to the dealer can be pretty helpful, or simply buy the coolant from the dealer to avoid the possibility of trouble.…
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.…
With a little attention to detail and some elbow grease, you can save thousands of dollars by selling your vehicle online rather than swapping it with a dealer. The following tips will show you how:
* Avoid overpricing. Research the private-party value on sites like to find out exactly what your car is worth and price yours competitively to sell quickly.
* Thoroughly clean your car inside and out; wax the exterior. The car should be spotless, with no clutter. Have existing problems repaired, or be prepared to lower your price accordingly.
* A vehicle history report provides credibility and builds trust. Carfax reports are available free at with the purchase of their Premium Ad package. If you have maintenance records, show them to potential buyers.
* A professional inspection will prevent last-minute surprises and adds to the buyer’s peace of mind. recommends SGS Inspections, with its nationwide staff of inspectors who will come to your home, office or any convenient location and perform a 150-point inspection and post results within 24 hours. Their fee includes interior and exterior photos.
* When writing your ad, provide specific details and features. Include plenty of well-lighted photographs of your clean and shiny vehicle, inside and out.
* Respond to inquiries promptly to keep the buyer enthused. Get the buyer’s full name, address and contact information. Verify the information before meeting face-to-face. Initially, you may wish to meet the buyer away from your house and also have a friend come along.
* Accompany the buyer on the test drive to continue discussing the vehicle’s selling points.
* Once you’ve agreed on a price, discuss method of payment. It’s best to request a cashier’s check drawn on a local bank and to go with the buyer to the bank to verify it. For cash transactions, both buyer and seller should sign a cash receipt or a bill of sale.
* After the transfer of title, notify your insurance company and local DMV. Remember that in most states, the license plates stay with the buyer.…
Most shop owners and dealerships are willing to rehire past employees that were good producers. When you listen, this is what they’ll typically say: “Now that Mike has worked at another shop for a while, he knows just how good he had it here with us! So I know that if I hire him back, he’ll be a great, life-long employee!” Well, before you agree with that statement, you should consider that when you first bring someone aboard you should look for a number of things, yet none are more important than a mutual commitment to a long-lasting relationship. This commitment is good for both you and your employee.
Unfortunately, no matter how green the grass is at your shop, as we all know, the grass is often greener on the other side of the fence. So what happens when that superstar employee of yours comes to you and tells you that they’ve taken a job with another shop or dealership? In the eyes of the employee, if they have been a good producer for you they may very well feel that if things don’t work out at their new job, you’ll welcome them back with open arms. And why not? That’s what most shop owners ultimately do. So they shake hands, they wish one another the best, and the employee walks out the door.
Then a few months later that very same employee is knocking on the shop owner’s door, telling the owner that they realize they made a mistake, and they would love to be able to join the team again. This is when most shop owners make a major auto shop management mistake. They immediately think of the tech or service advisor’s past productivity, and they foolishly tell themselves that if they bring the employee back into the fold, all the other employees will then realize just how good they have it. In reality, that’s the furthest thing from the truth. When you bring someone back into your company who left voluntarily, the message your employees are getting is that they can leave at anytime, with the peace of mind that you’ll always rehire them. That in itself is the wrong message to send to any employee. Consider this…
When an employee knows, upfront, that you have an auto shop management policy in place which states that they will be ineligible for rehire if they leave your company, it will motivate them to come forward and talk to you about the concerns they have. This in itself will give them pause when they think about leaving. You also need to consider that the price an employee pays for leaving is relatively low. If things don’t work out, they just roll their tool box back into your shop. Not the case with you as the business owner. You now have to burden the cost of finding and hiring the replacement employee, the cost of training that new hire, and the expense of business disruption, which is not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.
Lastly, if you do bring that employee back aboard, odds are they’ll leave again. The reason is pretty simple: over the years I have argued that the first thing that leaves is the heart, then the mind, and then the tool box. So if you didn’t resolve whatever it was that caused them to leave the first time, they’ll more than likely leave again. Now I need to be clear: there’s nothing wrong with anyone wanting to do better in life. That’s understandable. But as business owners, we need to think through our auto shop management policies. By allowing employees to leave and return, what we’re really doing is encouraging our employees to take our competitors for a “test-drive”, while at the same time we’re putting ourselves at risk.
So what will a no-rehire policy do for you? First of all, it will bring about a greater commitment, and team spirit, from all your employees. Secondly, it will force your people to really think through any decision they make about possibly leaving your company, as appropriate with any big decision. That in itself is priceless, because it will help prevent your people from making quick, emotional decisions that more often than not turn out to be the wrong decisions. And finally, it will cause your people to be open, and discuss their concerns with you, rather than trying to run from the very same issues that may confront them at their next place of employment.
Are their exceptions to a no-rehire rule? Of course. If someone has to move out of town due to a family issue, if they are forced into a career change due to medical issues, or if they leave you for any other reason that is legitimately out of their …
Small cars have always had a large share of the automobile sales registered every year. Therefore, nowadays, almost every company is looking to launch a small Sedan that can suit the customers’ requirements. Moreover, in the recession hit environment, automobile companies are focusing on small cars that are available at reasonable prices and do not create much of a monetary burden on the customers. However, companies are not just content with making an economical small van rather; they are trying to infuse in it the qualities that you normally get in a medium sized or a luxurious Mitsubishi. Features like air bags, strong engine, excellent suspension, sun roofs- all are now available in small SUV’s.
In addition to the lesser prices, there are many other benefits of small vehicles. Some are summed as under:
Better mileage
A small car will always have a better mileage than medium sized automobiles, SUV’s and luxurious sedans. It can even give a mileage of 20 kilometers per liters of petrol, whereas, a large one won’t be even close to it. Hence, you will be able travel far at quite a reasonable cost.
Excellent maneuverability
A small sedan can be maneuvered quite easily. You don’t have to rethink twice before taking your vehicle in a crowded place, since it is easy to turn and can be parked in a smaller space. On the other hand big Limousine requires larger space for parking and is not easy to maneuver.
Easy Handling
The small One is easy to handle. These are more nimble, which make them lesser prone to accidents. Since the center of gravity is lower as compared to big one, the chances of them tolling over or filliping over are quite less. Moreover, since, these are small in size, these can be easily stopped. Whereas, a big van will take that fraction of a second more to stop, that can cause collision.
Less Maintenance
A small car requires lesser maintenance. Also, the parts of a small car are available at a lesser price, which make them cost effective as well. Moreover, in the big cars, most of the spare parts are expensive, which can make you spend more than you want.
Eco friendly
A small car is more eco friendly than a big car. It emits less pollution and consumes less fuel which makes it environmental friendly.
With all these factors the small cars definitely have an edge over big cars hence; the small car sales keep on increasing at a good rate.…
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.…
Used Car Websites – Discover the Best Way to Buy Cheap Used Cars Through Government Vehicle Auctions
If you are looking to buy cheap used cars in your locality or across the country then you have come to the right place. There are some well known used car websites available online which you can use to find these types of vehicles through government auctions. Read further to discover how you can grab your favorite car through different types of government vehicle auctions held all across the country.
We all love bargains about the cars we buy. We often hear some people buying cheap cars without investing thousands of dollars. And we usually wonder how these people are able to purchase the cars at such rock bottom prices. Your answer is the government vehicle auction websites.
There are basically two ways by which you can take part in these government auctions. The first one is to ask directly to the relevant government authorities in your locality. This option seems simple in the beginning. But when you actually try to ask these authorities about the actual auction places then you will realize that they are very reluctant to provide you the required answer. Most of the times, government do not spend any advertising money on these types of auctions which is why very few people know about these auctions.
This is why using second option is much simpler and easier for common people. The second choice is to use reliable and safe government auction websites. There are few websites available online which can find all types of cars available in our locality as well as all across the country. Plus we can also place our bid on any car we want at the comfort of our home. For a small one-time fee these websites provide you all the information regarding all types of auctions held across the country everyday.
The major advantage of using these websites is that common people do not know about these sites. This is the reason you stand a good chance to win your auction and get your dream car quickly and safely at your home.…
Auto collision centers are just great. Did you recently get in a wreck? How about any of your friends? There are places that can help you. They can come and pick up your wreck the same day that it has been in a crash. If you are looking to repair your car they can consult with you how much it is going to cost with and without your insurance. Collision places are just great for working with you on everything you need.
They have towing services that are good to go 24 hours a day. They will even offer a free pick up and delivery. They honor all claims with your insurance and you will only have your car to win back. If you are looking to repair or paint your car they will discuss all details with you over the phone and after they see your car. They can do anywhere from junk cars to high end luxury vehicles. If you are worried about the color of your car being custom, they can do digital color matching to your car. You won’t have to worry about the paint being a slight different color even if it is custom. They have immaculate paint programs that can match even the most difficult color.
Services like these offer a life time warranty on their work. If there is something that doesn’t work or falls apart all of a sudden they will gladly fix it for you. You will not have to suffer just because someone’s work is unsatisfactory.
Companies like these are honest and reliable while giving you professional service. You will not have to worry about lazy work or these people taking advantage of you in such a vulnerable position. There is nothing they like to do more than help you fix all of your problems.
Reconstructive car surgeons can straighten your frame and reconstruct your car in no time so it will be looking brand new. You will be excited about your car again after you see what the possibilities are with your car. You can even rent a car through their services right on site. Some places are happy to help you with anything you need to ensure happiness upon arrival. They are professionals that understand what it is like to lose your most prized possession.
It is tough to get in a wreck. These companies understand your position and your feelings. They are trained and experienced and work to get the job done right the first time.…
You must have heard about auto auctions for seized police vehicles. These are car auctions which are held by the police department in your locality. These happen almost each and every year. This is a process of getting rid of the cars that the police department has taken possession of. In this police auctions all the seized vehicles are disposed off. It is a golden opportunity if you can utilize it according to your advantage. You can get good cars for a very less price by bidding them in an intelligent way. The main advantage of this police auctions is start the bidding starts at a very low price and chances are more that you can end up sealing the deal for a lesser price. You can see a lot of models and varieties even in these auctions.
If you want to know more about this police auctions then you can actually browse through the department’s website. The next time you find any of these car auctions taking place in your locality then never ignore it. It would be wise to go to the particular place and observe the entire process of the auction so that you will come to know about various factors at play in these police auctions. This way if you can get used to the process you can slowly participate in the betting and then end up getting a very good car for a very less price. This is the reason why the police auctions have become so popular and lots of people who are looking to buy used cars will prefer the car auctions.
At the same time you need to be very careful about the quality of the cars that are going to buy in these car auctions. In most of the police auctions the cars which are fit for nothing and are piled up in the go down are disposed off in order to obtain some space in the go downs. You need to check the working condition and also the current situation of the particular car before you go for it. This is very important so that you can ensure that you take goods worth the quality along with you. So the next time when you hear about police auctions try to gain a better picture of what type of vehicles are being disposed off. This will definitely help you a lot.
Nowadays a lot of people are buying cars in these car auctions held by the police. It would be a wiser option to buy cars in auto auctions instead of going to the used car market because there is a high chance of you buying it for cheaper in the police auctions than in any other place. This is the reason why these auctions have become famous all over the world.…