Car Information

New Audi A5 In Detail

2007-03-19T20:48:00.000-07:00

Probably the most celebrated latest Audi model nowadays is the Audi A5 luxury 2-door coupe, which was recently unveiled at the 77e Salon International de l'Auto Geneve (77th annual Geneva International Motor Show) early this March. Audi also announced the luxury coupe's availability after the show for interested customers who want to get the first hand of the vehicle.

Walter de’Silva, the head of Volkswagen Group Design boasted his new designed Audi model and said the Audi A5 is "the most beautiful car I have ever designed”. Based from the Audi Nuvolari quattro concept car unveiled at the 2003 Geneva International Motor Show, Audi's newest luxury coupe embodies the elegance, comfort, and sporty features of the next generation sports coupe.

According to Volkswagen Group, "The Audi A5 successfully unites the acclaimed Audi design language and thrilling dynamic driving performance, and combines generous refinement with the brand’s characteristic quality and sophistication. Its progressive design gives the new coupé an appearance that is both elegant and dynamic. With its muscular FSI and TDI engines, its entirely newly developed high-precision running gear, and a raft of innovative, luxury-class equipment features, the Audi A5 has been crafted to be a modern grand tourer, a touring coupé in the best tradition."

The Audi A5's sleek and sporty exterior appearance is highlighted by the luxury coupe's new styling. The front fascia shows off a new Audi single-frame grille with right-angled headlights and large air inlets. At the rear, you can see distinctive horizontal lines along with wide styled tail lights designed to have a protruding look. The luxury coupe also comes with an aggressive trapezoidal C pillar, LED daytime running lights, xenon plus headlights, dynamic cornering light system, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside this luxury coupe's cockpit features the instrument panel and centre console that is drawn together to provide an easy operation of the vehicle's controls. The Audi A5 also gets deluxe automatic air conditioning system with three temperature zones, extra-large panoramic tilting roof for open space driving feel, and the Audi parking system with an advanced rearview camera. A host of optional infotainment and electronic systems is also available. These include DAB digital radio reception and DVB TV reception; DVD navigation system; and 500-watt Bang & Olufsen premium audio system with 14 speakers and surround sound. The A5 also offers an elegant and spacious luggage compartment. Just like the VW CV boot, owners can load different kinds of stuff on the Audi A5 boot that measures maximum width of 1 meter.

Under the hood of this luxury coupe comes a wide range of V6 TDI diesel engines. Toppung the engine range is the powerful 3.0-litre engine capable of pumping out a maximum output of 240 hp (176 kW) and 368 lb.-ft. amount of peak torque. With this engine, the Audi A5 can sprint from zero to 62 mph in a mere 5.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 155 mph. The engine is combined with a manual gearbox powering all the four wheels. A 2.7-litre V6 engine delivering 190 hp (140 kW) with the multitronic gearbox is also offered.

For those who already placed their orders for the Audi A5, the company will deliver the luxury coupe starting in June 2007.

By: Benjsmin Hudson

For more about your VW parts like VW CV boot, visit your trusted online store. Benjamin Hudson works as a supervisor at one of the top engineering firms in the business district of Louisiana. He is also a freelance journalist and has passion for anything automotive.

New Technology For Hybrid Vehicles

2007-03-19T20:21:00.000-07:00

Hybrid vehicles have become more and more popular in the U.S. since Toyota introduced the Prius. This fuel efficient vehicle is equipped with a small engine that is powered commonly by gasoline. Its fuel efficiency is due to the use of an electric motor which supplies the additional power to aid the engine.

While a small engine may not be suitable for some driving conditions, the electric motor powered by an on board battery pack makes the power produced by the small engine adequate enough. But designers and engineers in the auto industry are constantly looking for ways to improve the performance of a hybrid vehicle. Turbodyne Technologies Inc. is one of the companies looking for ways to improve the performance of hybrid cars. Recently, the company announced that they have developed a new technology which is aimed to help hybrid vehicles perform even better.

Turbodyne has improved the design of the Turbodyne TurboFlow™ electronic air injection system. The technology is aimed for use by hybrid vehicles. “It’s clear that hybrid vehicle production is experiencing significant growth,” says Al Case, the Chief Executive Officer of Turbodyne. “”The biggest challenge is maximizing engine output while maintaining fuel economy. That’s where the opportunity lies for the Turbodyne TurboFlow™ air injection system,” Case added.

The TurboFlow technology differs from turbochargers and superchargers by the absence of mechanical linkages. That is because the Turbodyne TurboFlow air injection system uses an electric motor to operate the air compressor which in turn supplies air to the engine.

By eliminating the mechanical linkages, the air injection system is made better than turbochargers or superchargers. Superchargers need power from the engine to operate the air compressor and this means that the power generated by the engine will be reduced.

Turbochargers, on the other hand, use gas exhaust to force air to the combustion chamber. This means that when there is significantly less exhaust gas, like for instance when starting a car, the turbocharger cannot help the engine. Both the engine power reduction and lack of take-off power problems are solved by the Turbodyne TurboFlow™ air injection system.

Since hybrid vehicles are known to have a good storage of electrical energy, it makes sense that the new air injection system for hybrid vehicles is powered by electricity. Since the Turbodyne TurboFlow™ air injection system is not dependent on the engine, it can be used throughout a driving cycle. It is specifically designed to provide air into small displacement engines like those used on hybrid engines.

This new technology will further increase the performance of the fuel efficient vehicles. This could mean that hybrid vehicles will be continuing their domination of the auto industry in the future. From the way things look, hybrid vehicles have become the bully dog in the yard of automobile industry.

With more and more developments like these, we can surely expect more and more hybrid vehicles roaming our streets.

By: Jenny McLane

Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today. You can visit bully dog for more information.

How To Lose $20,000 Selling Your Car On-line

2007-03-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

You have your car listed for sale on the Internet and it looks like you have an easy sale. The emails are rolling in from interested buyers. But wait, a lot of these interested buyer may have a plan that will take a lot of your hard earned money.
Because we get into the details, there are four rules that you must follow not matter what. If you violate either of these rules you will lose your money:
1) Never accept payment which is not for the exact amount of the sale.
2) Do not assume that any cashier check or money order is valid.
3) Do not assume any payment if valid just because your bank gives you cash for it.
4) Another persons problem is not your problem to solve.
Before I explain these simple rules we will look at two actual emails I received from people wanting to buy my used car. I listed a price above market value as an experiment and did not believe anyone would answer my ad.
Both of these emails had IP addresses from outside the USA. In the first one an address and phone in the USA were given. You cannot rely on IP address, phones or postal addresses for identification of where a purchase is actually from.
First email:
HELLO,
INQUIRY ON YOUR CAR, PLEASE GET BACK TO ME WITH YOUR ROCK BOTTOM ASKING PRICE AND THE PICTURES IF THE CAR IS STILL AVAILABLE.
HAVE A NICE DAY
JAMES THOMAS
[address]
[phone]
In response, I answered using an almost obscene name and told him the car was as described on the web and gave him a price that was higher than what I stated on the web.
If you notice he does not really ask any questions about the car. You can be pretty sure he emails the same email to thousands of people and cannot remember which email is about which car.
Mr. "Thomas" replies:
HELLO,
THANKS FOR YOUR URGENT RESPONCE, HOPE ALL IS WELL WITH YOU. AFTER CONSIDERING THE PRICE, I HAVE ACCEPTED MAKING PAYMENT FOR THE CAR. BUT THE ISSUE IS THAT I HAVE A FRIEND WHO IS OWING ME HE WORKS WITH INTER TRUST FINANCIAL IN CANADA BUT HE IS PRESENTLY ON VACATION IN SAUDI ARABIA. I HAVE CONSIDERED USING THE MONEY ON THIS TRANSACTION, SO HE WILL BE MAKING THE PAYMENT DIRECTLY TO YOU WITH A CASHIERS CHECK, BUT THE MONEY IS IN EXCESS OF THE PRICE OF THE CAR, SINCE WE HAVE AGREED ON US$15, 100 FOR THE PRICE, SO YOU HAVE TO SEND THE EXCESS TO THE AGENT THAT WILL COME FOR THE PICK UP SO THAT HE CAN BE ABLE TO OFFSET SHIPPING CHARGES. THEREFORE, I URGE YOU TO PROVIDE YOUR MAILLING INFORMATION WHICH ARE YOUR LEGAL NAME, HOME ADDRESS, AND PHONE NUMBER SO THAT HE CAN BE ABLE TO MAIL THE CASHIERS CHECK TO YOU VIA COURIER SERVICE. AND ALSO YOU ARE TO STATE THE PRESENT LOCATION OF THE CAR FOR EASY PICK-UP.THANKS AS I WAIT TO RECIEVE YOUR CONSENT ON THIS TRANSACTION SOON.
THANKS AND GOD BLESS
JAMES THOMAS
Here comes the problem. To sell my car to Mr. "Thomas" I will need to violate all four rules I listed above. The bottom line is that Mr. "Thomas" will send me a cashiers for more than the amount of the sale, the bank will give me cash the day after I deposit the cashiers check, I will refund the extra to him (I am not "solving" his "problems"). My surprise will be that in a month or so, my bank will tell me the cashiers check was forged and remove the full amount from my back account; but I have already refunded the extra to Mr. "Thomas" so my bank balance will likely end up well below zero!
If I am lucky, I will be out the $5, 000 and find out before I actually sign the title of my car over to Mr. "Thomas"!
Here is another email which is basically the same. Again, they are not interested in any details of the car, though some scam emails do ask a few questions. They do not specifically mention a cashiers check, but instead refer to a "check payable in the US". The email also implies that the car will need to be shipped to a client. I will not comment on his horrible spelling.
Hello,
my clinet is intrested in your car..if is still avalebbile please contact me. which you will receive a payable check in U.S. Hope to read from you soon.
Regards.
mark
We should add an additional rule, if you are not a professional in the import, export business, do not think about shipping your car overseas. Not for one second. Not even if the "buyer" has arranged for shipping. Even if it were legitimate (and it is not) you would be in for more headaches that you want.
We need to review the 4 simple rules again:
1) Never accept payment which is not for the exact amount of the sale.
Any normal purchaser will make payment to you in the correct amount. If someone has a check for the "wrong" amount it is not your problem to resolve. You are just trying to sell a car, your are not in the banking business! Really you should be selling your car to someone you see in person with cash or a check from a local bank you can verify at their bank.
2) Do not assume that any cashier check or money order is valid.
The FDIC issues regular reports about stolen and forged money orders and cashiers checks. It is not a rare event. You cannot assume any payment is valid unless you personally verify it at the bank that issued the payment, ie: by walking into that bank and cashing it.
3) Do not assume any payment if valid just because your bank gives you cash for it.
Under U.S. Banking Laws, your bank is obligated to "clear" cashiers checks in one business day. That means if you deposit a cashiers check today, your bank must allow you to withdraw cash tomorrow. That does not mean the payment is good. A forged cashiers check can take weeks for your bank to discover. When they do the entire amount plus service charges will be removed from your account! You see the trick?
4) Another persons problem is not your problem to solve.
Many of these scamsters develop involved stories about all kinds of problems they have, in this case a cashiers check for too much money. They offer you a bonus or easy sale for helping them solve the problem. In reality the only problem is that you will lose lots of money trying to "help" them.
Your only problem is to sell your car to an actual buyer, that has actually looked at the car and makes a payment you can actually verify (cash) at their bank. This will never include someone that wants the car shipped somewhere. It will never include someone that has a check of any kind for too much money.
No one will ever pay you an extra $500 much less an extra $1,000 or $5,000 for your car for helping them.
BOTTOM LINE Do not ever involve the "problems" of someone else in your transaction. Do not accept any "cashiers check" as valid -- no matter what the teller at your bank says.
The real question is who would buy a car they do not look at? But if you must sell your car to someone who is not local, please make sure you use an escrow service.

By: Wilbur Corncob

By Wilbur Corncob. Buy used cars. Copyright (c) 2007 GLR Sales LLC. Permission is granted to reprint this article in whole or in part provided that a link to carsforsale.classifieds1000.com is included as a standard link.

Alfa Romeo Spares Can Be Found Online

2007-03-19T19:55:00.000-07:00

Finding Alfa Romeo spares is as easy as clicking a button. In a recent Google search on the World Wide Web, dozens of dealers, forums and other places of interest were found. Even the well known auction site EBay has Alfa Romeo spares listed on its site.

If you do choose to purchase your Alfa Romeo spares online, beware of hidden costs. Automobile parts are heavy, and shipping them can run the price through the roof. When comparing what a part costs on line to one at your local parts store, keep in mind the addition of shipping.

It may be possible to shop on line, but to buy local. Many breaker yards and junk yards now carry much of their inventory online. This makes shopping much more convenient for their consumers, which means more profit for them.

Those buyers out there that aren’t afraid of a little competition or a slight gamble might find the online auctions sites an exciting place that to search for the perfect Alfa Romeo spares that they need. It is important to investigate the history of the person you are buying from so you can be more comfortable with the idea of sending them your money. You might think of starting with a less expensive part. If you do get scammed, by chance, then you aren’t out a lot of money for the experience.

If you do decide to buy that big, expensive part through an online auction, make sure the price includes shipping, handling, and insurance. It is important to know the full price of your purchase ahead of time. It is also important to protect that purchase until is arrives safely at your home. The Alfa Romeo spares need to be insured for full coverage or you could lose your shirt if there is a problem with the shipping.

Buying your Alfa Romeo spares does not have to be expensive. Make an adventure of the purchase and take your search world wide.

By: Kathryn Lang

Kathryn Lang is a freelance writer covering the motoring industry. She has written various articles on Alfa Romeo parts and Alfa Romeo cars in general.

Mercedes-benz Confirms A Hybrid Model In 2009

2007-03-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

DaimlerChrysler AG's Mercedes-Benz luxury car brand has finally come up with a decision that involves their entry into the hybrid powertrain class. The Stuttgart-based automaker will develop a hybrid model for their several vehicle classes ranging from the subcompact A-Class models up to the S-Class luxury sedans.

Last week, Thomas Weber, the head of development for Mercedes Car Group has told the automotive press at the 77th annual Geneva International Motor Show about the Mercedes-Benz hybrid. He said: "In 2009, we will have the first Mercedes-branded hybrid on the market."

Meanwhile, here is what Dieter Zetsche, Chief Executive Officer of DaimlerChrysler AG said in a recent interview with Auto Motor und Sport, one of Germany's premiere automotive publications: "We will not develop new vehicles without including a hybrid model option. We will offer out customers the right product."

Zetsche also said that the environment is very important for the company, and developing a Mercedes-Benz hybrid model will allow them to significantly contribute to the environment.

DaimlerChrysler's plan to focus on cars with diesel engines instead of focusing in hybrid powertrain technology was earlier dismissed due to some customer demands, according to the German automaker.

Zetsche also commented on the announcement made by Mercedes-Benz and BMW last week regarding the collaboration on the development of hybrid system. He said: "We will combine our knowledge and skills with BMW Group in order to accelerate the development of the hybrid project. With the mild hybrid, we can obtain 70 percent of the effect of a full hybrid with only 30 percent of the effort."

Zetsche further explains that the new models that will be offered some time in 2009 are equipped with mild hybrid powertrain systems, which include a diesel of petrol engine combined with an electric motor, unlike full hybrid models developed by other automakers that can run solely on electric power in a limited range. A mild hybrid powertrain system provides an increased acceleration and performance along with low fuel consumption and lower exhaust emissions.

Unfortunately, Mr. Zetsche said he will not give more details about the Mercedes-Benz's hybrid plans in the future. In fact, he did not include the exact schedule for the launch of their first ever mild hybrid model.

Along with the mild hybrid power train system, Zetsch also said that they will introduce other innovative car technologies in the future including the start/stop system and new alternator that can be disconnected from the engine during acceleration. These new technologies are being developed at the company’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany.

After reading this article, car enthusiasts will watch out for the Mercedes-Benz model equipped with Mercedes hybrid powertrain parts, probably Mercedes C230 parts to roll out in dealer showrooms around the world.

By: Dwyane Thomas

Airbags Could Cause Foot, Ankle Trauma

2007-03-18T09:58:00.000-07:00

The importance of airbag in vehicles is given greater emphasis when road fatalities soared and the figures became alarming that the said auto feature was deemed indispensable. The feature became increasingly popular because of its all-positive offers. However, in a recent study, it was found that airbags could be the cause of foot and ankle trauma.

Members of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) said that they have noticed a significant increase in traumatic foot and ankle injuries among patients who survived auto accidents. And the cause - airbags!

The federal government initiated the imposition of dual front airbags requirement in passenger cars in the year 1998. Since then, a number of studies have been conducted to know whether airbags are responsible for the increasing lower extremity injuries. According to a federal report, drivers in air bag equipped cars suffer more than 17,600 lower extremity injuries every year. One-third of those are to the foot and ankle. The trauma though is not life threatening. It may just result to limited mobility that the affected individual may necessitate months or years of rehabilitation and physical therapy. It may also lead to multiple surgeries.

"We see trauma we never saw before," said ACFAS President James L. Thomas, DPM, FACFAS who is also a foot and ankle trauma surgeon at the University of Alabama, Birmingham Hospital. "A decade ago, these patients would have died from head trauma or other upper body injuries. Now, thanks to seat belts and air bags, they survive."

Thomas added, "Many patients who suffer foot and ankle trauma in an auto crash -- with or without air bags -- face a long road to recovery. But the good news is, many patients do recover and lead a normal active lifestyle."

At the ACFAS Annual Scientific Conference, surgeons discussed less-invasive techniques for treating traumatic injuries received in motor vehicle crashes and other incidents. The common technique used by surgeons is the use of internal or external fixation devices. These devices immobilize the foot and ankle, just like a cast. Internal fixation devices uses a series of rods, screws and plates attached to bones, stabilize them to allow proper healing.

Jerry Cremeans, a Lincoln County High School automotive teacher, is educating his students about the power of airbags. He said all drivers, especially younger drivers, need to be aware of the powerful force they sit behind every day.

Cremeans added that airbags explode at 175 mph to 200 mph. He noted that if car occupants are not positioned properly, an airbag can be extremely dangerous, even deadly. But he said airbags have saved more lives than they have hurt. He added that as long as drivers are educated, an airbag is a life-saving tool.

Cremeans said drivers need to position themselves at least 10 inches away from the steering wheel, in order for the airbag to work properly. "I'm trying to make this to where everybody gets a little bit of knowledge of what's in front of you when you sit down at that wheel or passenger side," Cremeans concluded.

Basically, the auto knowledge should not only revolve around engines, radiators and Weapon R cold air intake but should include safety and protection.

By: Lauren Woods

Safety-kleen Receives “best Overall Value Award”

2007-03-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

The auto industry, just like any other, produces wastes that pose potential risks to the environment. These wastes need to be taken care of properly by putting them on landfills that are certified to be safe. Other wastes can be re-used using technologies developed for the recycling of automotive wastes.

Safety-Kleen is one company which specializes on oil recycling and re-refining parts cleaner and industrial waste management. The company takes care of the potentially harmful wastes from the auto industry. Its dedication to provide good service to its consumers and at the same time protect the environment has earned the company the “Best Overall Value Award” form AutoNation. The award cones from America’s largest automotive retailer.

Laura Payne, the Director of Strategic Sourcing for AutoNation, has this to say before giving the award: “Safety-Kleen handles our hazardous waste removal, parts washers and solvents, and hauls our waste oil. We're particularly pleased with Elizabeth Semrau, manager of the AutoNation account, who has done a phenomenal job of working across all levels of our company to provide competitive pricing, highly responsive service and lower overall management costs.”

The Safety-Kleen has shown their commitment to AutoNation as shown by Payne’s statement. "Because of their service levels and commitment to our partnership, Safety-Kleen has earned this year's award for Best Overall Value," Payne even emphasized.

On the part of Safety-Kleen, Mike Fraser, the Senior Vice President of Sales, attributed the award to the good working relationship between them and AutoNation. He said that they have been working with the largest auto retailer in the U.S. since 2002 and through the years, Safety-Kleen has come up with ways to improve their service and cut down the cost both for them and for Auto Nation.

Frederick J. Florjancic Jr., the Safety-Kleen President and Chief Executive Officer, has this to say about the award: “We're very proud to have won this award. I am especially proud of the Safety-Kleen team for their ongoing commitment to AutoNation, as well as our other customers, as we continue to drive world-class performance throughout the organization.”

In 2003, Safety-Kleen also received the “Most Improved Supplier” award from AutoNation. And from that time, Payne said that “Safety-Kleen has truly become a strategic ally, always looking for ways to improve their services and our business” and it sure is reflected though the accolades and awards that they are receiving. “It’s a pleasure to acknowledge their efforts with this award,” added Payne on the most recent one that they took home.

The award shows that there are companies that are actively doing their share to protect the environment by taking care of the waste of the auto industry. With more and more environmentally related problems surfacing, the services of companies such as Safety-Kleen is needed to act as an EBC Greenstuff brake pads in stopping the further destruction of the environment.

By: Anthony Fontanelle

4 Factors To Consider When Buying Your First Honda Civic Intake

2007-03-12T08:46:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to increase horsepower and torque cheaply then an intake might be the way to go. There are several factors to take into consideration when purchasing your first Honda Civic intake. These are price, intake design, the filter that is used, projected total power gain. Here are some tips to help you make an educated purchase decision.

1) Price - When choosing your first Honda Civic intake the price is an important factor. There are intakes available to fit nearly any tuner’s budget. However cheaper Honda Civic intakes may skimp on filter choice to save cost.

2) Intake Design - Honda Civic intakes usually come in two different varieties. First you have the "cold air intake," second there are "Short-Ram" intakes. The cold air intake collects air from outside of the hot engine bay, hence the name "cold air." These intakes are usually more expensive than their short-ram counterparts, however the horsepower gain is usually more pronounced. Short-Ram intakes are physically shorter than cold air intakes and they collect air from within the engine bay. The horsepower gain is smaller, while the torque gained tends to be a hair larger than the cold air intakes. This style of Honda Civic intake is usually cheaper than the cold air intakes.

3) The Filter - The air filter that is used can make a difference in the price and overall net gain of your Honda Civic intake. Many cheaper intakes use low quality filters to shave production costs. While this provides more profit for the manufacturer we tuners are left with a sub-par intake, providing little to no power gain over stock. The more expensive brand name Honda Civic intakes will use a high quality air filter. These high flowing air filters will provide a nice gain over stock power.

4) Total Projected Power Gain - When shopping for your first Honda Civic intake, be wary of the manufacturers projected horsepower gain. These manufacturers are making intakes for the sole purpose of making money, therefore they will inflate these numbers to make their product more attractive to potential buyers. This aspect of buying your Honda Civic intake is going to require a little research on your part. I suggest that you consult online communities of Honda Civic enthusiasts, and ask for opinions and dyno sheets( which will show you a car's wheel horsepower rating).

Taking each of these factors into consideration will land you with the Honda Civic intake of your liking. Upon installing one of these fine pieces of equipment you will at first notice an increase in throttle response. Then you will notice the aggressive induction sound. You may or may not feel the increase in horsepower when driving your car, however a trip to dyno before and after installation will give you concrete evidence of a successful power gain after purchasing your first Honda Civic intake!

The author Garland Robinson is a die-hard automobile nut. He especially loves Hondas.

His undying obession with the Honda Civic has driven him to create an entire website based on them.

By: Garland Robinson
Check it out @ http://hondacivic.car-performance.net

Alternative Cheap Diesel Engine Fuel Sources

2007-03-11T06:44:00.000-07:00

Thirteen years ago, when we owned a health food store, an old beat up VW Rabbit, parked in front of our store, and I noticed it had signs and writing on the windows. It said, “This vehicle runs on used vegetable oil”. The gentleman came into the store and I had to ask him how that worked. He was evasive and would not go into detail, but said he used oil from a deep fryer of a “Patate Frit”(french fry) stand. Being a diesel owner at the time, my curiousity was aroused.

The wonders of the internet made it easy for me to satisfy my curiosity and delve into the subject of alternative fuel sources. Trips to the library and a purchase of one particular book called “From the Fryer to the Fuel Tank” and I was on my way. I invested in all the hose and fuel lines with electrical fuel selector valves.

Heat is a necessary component in this venture. Without a heated tank the oil will not reach a combustible temperature. Feeling confident in the alternative fuel system on the vehicle, I decided to test it and made a round trip of 150km. With that being a success, I pushed the system a little harder and with tools in hand, and extra vegetable fuel on board, drove a distance of 1100km return.

The exhaust, when running on WVO, smells like burnt deep fried oil. The emissions are considerably reduced and there is no sulfur. Restaurants are more than happy to give away the oil, as they have to pay, to have it taken away. It needs to be filter down to about 5 microns before it can be used so there will be no damage the injectors or the injector pump. The possibilities are endless, as any diesel engine can run on used vegetable oil. This is a win/win situation for everyone involved.

With over 200,000 kms of driving experience and two diesels that have been converted to run on veggie oil, I have found through trial and error the restaurants with the cleanest oil. Since the exhaust fumes of alternative fuel cars can smell like french fries, next time the scent of greasy fries hits you as you are on the highway, don’t look around to see if there is a restaurant close by, check to see if you are following a diesel car!

By: Deb Wood

Maintaining Your Volvo S70 And V70

2007-03-11T06:43:00.001-07:00

All cars need maintaining but if you really want your Volvo s70 or Volvo v70 to last you a lifetime, then you will need to take extra special care of your car. A well maintained vehicle can last for tens of thousands of miles if you. Proper maintenance is the best thing you can do for your investment.

Your Volvo needs regular check-ups and maintenance. Regular oil changes at a reputable dealer or company will often ensure that not only do you have plenty of oil in your car, but many will check your other fluid levels as well. As the car ages, they will also alert you to any Volvo s70 or Volvo v70 parts you may need. These regular check-ups are recommended at every 3,000 miles.

In order to maintain safe and reliable transportation, it is also vital that you have your tires rotated and balanced every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. With all the safety features that a Volvo has it can’t do anything to protect you should you have a blow out. By rotating your tires on a regular basis you will be ensuring that there is equal wear on all of the tires. Tires develop wear patterns over a certain period of time. If the tires are not regularly rotated then the tread will wear off on in certain areas, which may make it difficult for you to get the proper traction. This can be dangerous during wet weather. They may also wear thin in areas, which may lead to a blowout.

When you do get to a point in which you need to replace parts on your Volvo, you are better off using factory Volvo s70 parts or Volvo v70 parts. Factory equipment parts are made specifically for Volvos and ensure that each replacement part is just as safe as the original. If you hear any funny noises coming from your car, listen to it and have them checked out. This is often the first sign that something needs tweaked or repaired.

Maintaining your car’s appearance will keep your Volvo looking great for the thousands of miles you plan to drive it. It is recommended that your Volvo is washed regularly and waxed at least twice per year. Even if you are hard on your car, it doesn’t have to look like it.

Regular maintenance of your Volvo will keep it looking great and running great for the many miles to come.

By: Patrick Kolodziejek -

Learn All About Car Dealer Auctions

2007-03-11T06:41:00.001-07:00

In this article, we will discuss the car dealer auction, giving our readers an insight into what goes on at the car auctions for dealers.

The car dealer auction is available all over the world to hundreds of people. However, we have come to learn that they are most popular in the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

The procedures at the car dealer auction

There are normally set procedures what happen at the car auction, we will go through each stage so that people can get an understanding of what it is like at the car auction. To be honest, anyone can go to a car auction, there is no set format saying a car auction is for dealers only. However, in our experience, dealers of cars at the car dealer auction are the main people you will find at the auctions.

This is good news however for those wishing to get started as they can offer some insight from other dealers at the car dealer auction. If you are not a dealer and are just wishing to buy a bargain car, by all means, go and grab yourself a bargain. You may even find that you gain some interest in car auctions and may want to go again to pick up another good deal on a car to sell on for profits. This is how many dealers get started.

Test drive the cars on show

If you are bidding on cars, this will be your chance to test drive the cars on show. Generally, this part is only for dealers or those wanting to bid on one of the cars being put on auctioneer. It is up to you if you want to test drive one the cars available, however, if you are buying a car, we recommend that you test drive the cars you are interested in.

Bidding

This is where you will bid on the cars and try to outbid others at the car dealer auction. At this part of the auction, you will likely get a very good deal on a car, that’s assuming the auctioneer doesn’t put the prices at silly prices and there is no one there who is just going to blow spare cash.

Winning the car

When you win the car, you will be offered a method of payment and cut off dates as to when to pay, you will also be offered the keys to the car upon cleared payment.

By: Steve Holden -

Cheap Car Auction – Get The Best Deals On Cars

2007-03-11T06:39:00.000-07:00

Many people around the world drive cars sell cars; buy cars, in-fact, today many people, especially family’s need cars to survive. In this article we will discuss car auctions, not just cheap car auctions because this is where you get the bargain deals on cars, most auctions, and quality auctions especially, will give you the best possible deals on cars.

What to expect at car auctions around the world

At the car auctions, you will get very good deals on cars to be honest, based on our experience if you stick in, you will get bargain deals on cars worth far more than the price they go for. This is why many people start dealing in cars after they have been to a few auctions and experienced the events themselves.

Cheap car auctions are everywhere

Cheap car auctions are all over the world, and to be honest, there is no such thing as a cheap car auction because generally, a person goes to get low cost deals on cars anyway. This is the whole purpose of the car auctions events that are on worldwide. Many dealers are born and become successes from cheap car auctions alone. However, remember the flip side is that they are not just for dealers. Anyone can go to car auctions, and because of that getting a hold of a cheap car is available to anyone.

Some people have said that car auctions are only for dealers in cars, however, we weren’t dealers when we went, in-fact, we went to look for bargain deals on cars and we weren’t registered dealers or even registered of traders in the car industry business. In life it is always to take some advice as a pinch of salt.

In the end, it’s about trying things for yourself and then you will know the facts. People try things, but they don’t go all the way and put 100 percent in, then they say its only for dealers, like we said, take this with a pinch of salt.

Our conclusion on cheap car auctions and our final advice

On a final note, we advise that you take someone with you who has some knowledge on cars. It can be a nightmare thinking you have a bargain car on your hands, but not knowing whether to bid or not because you don’t know enough about the car.

By: John Winam -

Tips On Buying A Second Hand Car

2007-03-11T06:37:00.000-07:00

Whether to buy a new car or buy a used car is often times the first decision that needs to be arrived at before you can actively begin perusing purchasing your next vehicle.

Let’s take a look at some tips, pros, and cons when it comes to making this decision.

First of all, having been in the automotive business for many years, I almost always lean toward finding a good used car that fits what I am looking for. For me, I believe that used cars offer the best value for your dollar. In most cases, you’ll find used car departments are much more used to and willing to negotiate the price that they have posted on the car. From a negotiating standpoint, most used cars won’t have all of those superfluous dealer ‘add-ons’ stuck on the window either that will just never do.

In the automotive market, used cars will most certainly come with a lower initial price tag than a comparably equipped new car. And not only will the price be lower, you may also find that so is your cost to insure the used car as well as the tags, and taxes. Depreciation being what it is; means that with a car a couple of years old, the biggest depreciation hit has already occurred. And from a tangible perspective, you may have a better chance of getting those upgrades you’d like to have on the used car that you couldn’t otherwise afford going with the new.

Yet, with all of this, buying a used car isn’t for everyone. Finding a used vehicle that fits one’s entire car buying criteria can be a tough exercise in balancing what you want with the value versus risk inherent when it comes to used cars.

Not so many years ago, reliability was a major concern when purchasing a used car… and rightfully so. Today however, reliability problems are a fraction of what they used to be. Today’s vehicles, when properly maintained will easily go for 100,000 miles and it’s not uncommon for vehicles to be motoring along as they approach 200,000 miles or more. And with all of the information now available online, the risk factor is again reduced even a bit more.

Even though more reliable today, buying a used car for people means buying a car that is probably out of its original bumper to bumper warranty. This alone, is enough to repel many potential car buyers back to the new car side of the dealership.

As you know, if you are looking at buying a used car, you are probably looking at a car that is outside the factory warranty or at least would have very little remaining. With no warranty you’ll be on the hook to pay for any needed repairs out of your own pocket. However, the biggest expense for most all cars today are the things that aren’t covered by any manufacturer’s warranty anyway; items such as brakes, tires, alignment, batteries, etc.

Of course nobody can guarantee that you won’t encounter a lemon. No matter what the make and model, no manufacturer can produce a vehicle that can withstand years of neglect and/or abuse. Always, always, always give the used car a thorough inspection both by yourself and a qualified mechanic; doing this will catch most problems that may be looming on the horizon.

When it comes to financing the purchase of a used car, you find that the going interest rates will typically be higher than new car rates. This is definitely a piece of the puzzle you’ll want to check out. There is no rule of thumb as to what the difference in the interest rate will be between the two because there are just too many determining variables involved such as; the economy, rebates and incentives involved on the new car side, your credit, length of financing, and even the type of used car you’re looking at. Be sure to crunch the numbers for both sides.

With used cars, insurance can save you some money as well because you’ll typically pay less for your insurance on a like model from a few years past. The reason is simple; less cost of replacement for the insurance company and used cars are generally not high on the stolen lists.

And finally, (the latest) safety features could be a concern if you’re looking at used car (particularly if you’re going back a few model years).

All in all, if the touch, feel, and smell of a new car, isn’t a top priority for you, I think you’ll find that a well thought out used car purchase you can get more car and features and still be within your budget.

By: Jeff Neilan -

Mercedes-benz Sold 82,000 Vehicles Worldwide

2007-03-11T06:34:00.000-07:00

In the news: Mercedes-Benz Car Group has announced recently that it has sold 82,000 units of vehicles worldwide comprising of Maybach, Mercedes-Benz and SMART brand passenger vehicles. The said sale is solely for the month of February 2007 however the automaker said that it is lower compared to the 83,800 units it has sold in the same month for 2006.

The first two months of the year, Mercedes-Benz was able to record a sale of 156,500 units of vehicles of which 78,000 are passenger vehicles sold worldwide resulting to an increase of three percent compared to the same month last year wherein the carmaker has sold only 76,100 units. Likewise, the number of vehicles delivered to customers for the first two months of this year has provided the carmaker with an eight percent increase totaling to 151,500 units comparing that to the same period last year with only 140,600 units.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan is enjoying a favorable reception in the market to think that it’s only a few weeks old. The C-Class have always showed great potentials even before its official launching in the market, around 55,000 advance orders have been placed for the new model in Western Europe alone. The sale of the Mercedes C-Class was particularly strong in February with 1,900 units an approximately twenty-six percent increase compared to the result posted in the same month in 2006.

In addition, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has also registered a substantial increase for February. The sales of the upper-range model series has totaled to 17,000 units or an 18 percent increase from the recorded sales in the same period last year. The E-class sedan has also celebrated significant sales posting more than a million units delivered starting from its initial launching in March of 2002.

The S-class continues to broaden its market-leading position in the luxury segment. And for the first two months of this year, Mercedes-Benz was able to deliver a total of 16,900 vehicles in the luxury segment. But the most rewarding result that the automaker has obtained is in terms of its Mercedes-Benz CL-Class which has been the popular choice of 3,400 customers worldwide starting from its market launch last September 2006.

The sales of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Mercedes-Benz B-Class models continuous to be strong, reaching a record sale of 36,000 deliveries just for the first two months of this year. The increase is backed by the growth in all regions. In United States the sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in January and February for this year has increased by 15 percent or 34,400 units compared to the same period last year. The automaker has also set a sales record in Asia/Pacific region with its sales rising by 11 percent to 20,200 units just for the first two months of this year. For its market in China including Hong Kong, Mercedes-Benz has recorded remarkable sales result in all its vehicle classes. Its passenger car vehicle in China was able to record 4,800 vehicles sold just for the month of February 2007.

Mercedes-Benz for its Western Europe market records an increased of four percent to 81,600 units from the same period last year. Its smart brand was also able to deliver 4,000 vehicles to customers around the world just for the month of February 2007 and that’s not all the fortwo model is nearly sold out which is not really surprising since even before its official market launch last April, an amazing number of orders have flooded for the car. And just seven weeks after its release more than 30,000 customers have placed their orders for the SMART fortwo.

With the increase in number of Mercedes-Benz owners, other sectors that sell Mercedes products is also expected to experience growth in sales like the Mercedes aftermarket parts segment which sells quality Mercedes aftermarket part of various Mercedes models. The rationale behind such phenomenon is that car owners would always want to improve their vehicles and what better way than to equip their rides with aftermarket parts.

By: Dwyane Thomas

Three Kia Models To Be Revealed At Geneva Auto Show

2007-03-10T08:12:00.000-08:00

Kia, the Korean auto brand, is already widening its market all over the word. In fact the car maker is showcasing three of its models at the ongoing 77th Salon de l'Automobiles (Geneva Motor Show). These three models are aimed to increase the popularity of the brand among European motorists. The three models making an appearance at the said international motor show are the Kia ex_cee’d Cabrio concept car, the Kia cee'd Sporty wagon, and the Kia Rio Hybrid.

The Cabrio concept car will make its world premiere at the aforementioned event. The convertible is aimed to attract the attention of motorists who are looking for both styling and performance in one reasonably priced package. The convertible stand out against its competition thanks to its use of a design concept from the past. The Kia Cabrio concept opts to employ a fabric roof. While this may seem a move backwards for the car maker, Kia Design Chief Peter Schreyer, the artist behind the ex_cee’d, has this to say: “I’m convinced that the fabric roof will have a renaissance and for me, it is the fabric that is the quintessential element of a truly rewarding Cabrio.”

The second model from Kia to take center stage at the Geneva International Auto Show is the Kia cee'd Sporty Wagon. This is the second installment in the cee'd family following the release of the cee'd hatchback last year. The Sporty Wagon version of the cee'd hatchback offers increased luggage capacity and versatility. The wheelbase of the wagon is increased over that of the hatchback. The tailgate hinge is also moved forward to provide convenient stowing of luggage on the luggage compartment at the back. According to Kia, the Sporty Wagon is essentially a hatchback in terms of performance. Its handling can be compared to the smaller hatchback, but the Sporty Wagon offers better stability thanks to its robust design.

The third Kia model to make an appearance for the first time in European soil is the Kia Rio Hybrid. The Rio is also known as the Kia Pride in other markets. The hybrid version of the Rio is the response of the Korean car maker to the increasing demand for green vehicles all over the world. In Europe, the appearance of the Rio hybrid is timely since the European Union is still hotly debating about the stricter emission standards which is said to be enforced by the year 2015. Aside from reducing the amount of fossil fuel burned by the car’s engine with the aid of an electric motor, Kia further added another feature to make their hybrid even more fuel efficient. The Rio Hybrid is the first Kia vehicle to feature a continuously variable transmission. The use of the technology makes the Rio Hybrid save more fuel. The transfer of power from the engine or electric motor is as smooth and as simple as the operation of a Chevy door handle.

By: Katie Jones

Honda Leases Fcx Hydrogen Vehicle To 17-year-old Actress

2007-03-10T08:08:00.000-08:00

The youngest person to ever lease a hydrogen vehicle from Honda is an actress. She is 17 years old and she is Q’orianka Kilcher, one of the stars of the 2005 movie “The New World”. This is as per an announcement sent out by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

John Mendel, the senior vice president of the company, expresses, “The best way to demonstrate the importance of next generation vehicles like the Honda FCX is to put the next generation of drivers behind the wheel. Q'orianka Kilcher will be driving around Hollywood in the ultimate environmental status symbol, literally and figuratively driving the change toward a hydrogen future.”

Of course, it is not quite surprising that even young people like Kilcher has chosen to use hydrogen vehicles that are friendlier to the ailing environment. Of course, the Honda FCX is going to help out the environment much because it has been created to have zero emissions. And people like Kilcher using vehicles like this one, they are helping out the environment in their own little way.

Kilcher does explain, “As a young person today, I feel it is important to take initiative toward seeking positive solutions and stepping up the quest toward clean energy and environmental preservation. When I first started pursuing my dream of a zero emissions vehicle as my first car, it seemed like a pretty unrealistic dream. With Honda's innovation and support, my dream of helping the environment became a reality!”

What auto parts do comprise the Honda FCX? Would it be having Husky BMW floor mats? Well, that would be quite unsure but there is surely that fact that the vehicle would be having a plush and comfortable interior with the right kind of material. What is also sure is that the vehicle would be having an engine that has been designed and crafted so much so that it can turn hydrogen into power to propel the vehicle through miles and miles of road.

People who are skeptical about using hydrogen powered vehicles can already start changing their minds. You see, Honda has tried out their vehicles through fleet sales and fleet partnerships. The results were quite a joy to behold for the company and that is why they are now pursuing their campaign towards letting people lease such a vehicle.

2007 Jeep Wrangler Jk

2007-03-10T08:06:00.000-08:00

The 2007 Jeep Wrangler JK has the looks that say “I’m the biggest thing on the trail”. The JK has a more refined interior and possess better handling characteristics. If we are to guess what Jeep’s guiding principle when it was designing the JK it must be “MORE” because this particular Jeep has more of everything you can think of like more room, more power, more on-road refinement, more safety, and more convenience.

Here are some of the remarkable features that the JK possess:

1. The chassis of the JK has a two-inch longer wheelbase, a 3.5 inch wider track, with a frame that’s exactly 100 percent solid which is a good thing since it makes the springs and shocks much easier to tune for a better on-road experience.

2. The bigger wheels and tires together with its new electronic axle lockers, an electronic disconnecting front anti-roll bar, and boosts up transfer cases makes the JK even more trail capable.

3. The much longer wheelbase and wider track provides more room for passengers and gears.

4. Its narrowing nose, sloping windshield, and raked grille improves the new Wrangler’s stability and fuel economy.

5. The new Wrangler makes use of different door and roof configurations which can be reconfigured further. Its three-piece Sunrider soft-top is compatible with the factory hardtop pr can be a stand-alone choice.

6. The rear-seat has a fold and tumble feature which enables easy access to a lockable under-floor storage area where small items can be stored. Plus with the rear seats tumbled forward it provides approximately 30 cubic feet of useable storage behind the front seats.

7. The JK is powered by an all-new 3.8 liter OHV V-6 which is made stronger, lighter and more fuel efficient compared to the 4.0 liter I-6 engine that it previously possess. The new V-6 offers 205 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque and is estimated to get 17 mpg for city driving and 21 mpg for highway driving. Its highly sophisticated Jeep catalytic converter reduces the level of harmful C02 emissions.

8. In terms of its seven slotted grille it is a prominent feature of Jeep vehicles as well the round headlights. But an option package that includes an integrated foglights and protective skidplates are available for an extra cost of course.

9. JK is also equipped with ESP or Electronic Stability Programme and roll mitigation software to reduce the possibility of rollover. There are also dual-stage front and side-mounted airbags which are designed to lessen impact in case of rollovers.

10. The windshield still fold flat to the hood by simply removing the screws and latches.

By: Lisa Ziegler

All New Nissan X-trail Revealed In Geneva

2007-03-10T08:05:00.000-08:00

At this year’s International Geneva Motor Show, the Nissan Motor Company has chosen to use the event as the venue for unveiling the newly updated and all new Nissan X-Trail. And according to the company this new one would be coming with loads of new features plus it would also be offering owners and users a better performance, more convenience, exciting comfort and quality as well as lower fuel consumption and emissions.

“Customers love X-trail’s convenience, its practicality, its strong performance and off-road capability. When we planned the new X-Trail, we were determined to keep those X-Trail roots, but enhance the entire vehicle,” explains Carlos Tavares, the executive vice president of the company for corporate strategy and product planning. Tavares mentioned such during the press conference which Nissan held as part of the unveiling of the vehicle.

Despite the claims that this Nissan X-Trail is all new, most people still can make out that definite characteristic which reminds most of us of the old model. Of course, with the previous one being quite a hit in the market, Nissan still had to retain some portions of the old version. That way, people would still be reminded that the new one is still the same old Nissan X-Trail, only made better.

If you are asking about the kind of power that this one has, we all would have to wait for Nissan has yet to inform the public about its power source and just how powerful it can be. Plus, most of the parts under the hood have to be revealed. But we all sure do know that this vehicle is not going to come using an AEM Acura intake.

Taking a quick chance to gaze at the interior of the vehicle, one would find that the vehicle really does provide utmost comfort. Plus, the materials used inside sure do look like quality ones so owners would not have to worry about experiencing damages to the owner after a day of traveling with the kids or with their pets.

For long trips, the Nissan X-Trail is not going to disappoint you. In fact, you are going to be quite surprised with the amount of cargo that this vehicle can hold. Inspect the trunk of the vehicle and you would see that it has got a larger and more spacious trunk where you can put in all of your luggage and equipment.

By: Mike Bartley

The Slow Evolution Of Porsche 911

2007-03-10T08:01:00.000-08:00

Various car companies consider the concept of evolving their products into something more appealing in the eyes of their target market. Changes will take place as the product develops into a renewed character.

On the other hand, Porsche seem to decline such style of perception. The progressive evolution for the Porsche 911 Carrera is slowly taking place. As the years passed by, only little enhancement from the previous Porsche 911 passed on to the next of its class.

The 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera-S presently is showing off a vast improvement on its exterior. Boasting off quad-element HID headlamps and comes with the not-new ovoid surrounds. Beneath its well known trademark, the frog-like headlights, is a larger air intake into which the signals are included -- positioned in a horizontal manner. Restrained lower lip extends from the chin spoiler and continues all the way down the body sides and into the rear bumper. The bumper has been revised to accommodate wider-set tailpipes, and unfortunately, droopy Cayenne-style LED tail lamps. Cornering lights still situated at bottom part of the headlights and has a little upgrading done. The cornering lights stayed consistently the same for the past years like the Wrangler’s Jeep cornering light.

As for any mechanical advancement that always comes with all styling progress and updates, Porsche will remain reserved whenever the word evolution is concerned. But it is now unnecessary to wish for the evolution of its horsepower bump. The current Carrera/Carrera-S with 325 to 355 is not a slow evolution for a car with that kind of stance. Porsche 911 models are known to be one of the meanest road thunders ever made. The 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera-S has already evolved into a fundamental precision.

By: Lisa Ziegler

Chrysler: Could There Be A Takeover Without Sale?

2007-03-10T07:54:00.000-08:00

As DaimlerChrysler AG's top management weighs the possibility of a sale of the Chrysler Group, a number of events weakened the latter's prospects. The first reason is the slump in performance. This is coupled with the refusal of United Auto Workers (UAW) union to give Chrysler the health care concessions it granted to the automaker's larger Detroit rivals.

For the first time, last Tuesday, Dieter Zetsche, DaimlerChrysler’s CEO, alluded to other pressures bearing on the Germany-based automaker. "Top performance is the best protection against potential threats, and that applies for DaimlerChrysler as well," Zetsche said at the Geneva Motor Show. He is anxious of the risk of a possible takeover of the company.

Financial experts also expressed their accord with Zetsche’s prediction. Experts said DaimlerChrysler could be a takeover target because its stock market valuation has been weighed down by Chrysler's uneven performance. In the past, the automaker was protected by the Deutsche Bank which is its largest shareholder. However, the bank has decreased its stake. Additionally, it wanted to drop its remaining 4.4 percent DaimlerChrysler holding.

"In today's world, a 50 billion euro ($65 billion) market cap doesn't protect you from those considerations. Zetsche added, "In the case that the current market capitalization of DaimlerChrysler doesn't represent the potential value of the group - and I'm convinced that this is the case - this of course triggers the interest of third parties to investigate if they're able to unlock hidden or undeveloped value."

"Potentially, they are a takeover target," said Juergen Pieper, an analyst at Metzler Bank which is based in Frankfurt. Pieper estimates DaimlerChrysler's assets are worth $30 billion more than its combined stock value. "If you split it up, you can generate value. Mercedes is one of the great brands of the world."

Zetsche earlier said that the first priority was to deliver on the restructuring plan which was announced last month. He reiterated that no option, including keeping Chrysler, had been ruled out. Other analysts who saw Zetsche in talks in London, New York and Boston said he would not discuss sale or spinoff plans with them. But they came away with the impression that DaimlerChrysler's preferred option would be the sale of Chrysler.

General Motors Corp., the largest automaker in the industry, was also reported having serious talks with Daimler regarding the potential of Chrysler to GM. Nonetheless, Zetsche would not confirm that sale talks were under way.

"I can confirm that nine months ago or more, some discussions between the Chrysler Group and GM - I think initiated by GM but this doesn't matter - took place to discuss some potential common interests in some segments. I think large SUVs were discussed. Beyond that, I can't confirm anything," said Zetsche, who ran Chrysler for nearly five years.

Apprehensions and predictions swiftly spread. Transmission is as quick as a window motor opening and closing car windows. On Monday, people familiar with the discussions said a team from Cerberus Capital Management met with Chrysler executives in Auburn Hills to discuss a possible bid for the company. The Blackstone Group, a big private equity firm, is also interested in purchasing Chrysler.

Zetsche said the management's decision to consider all options for Chrysler was not due to outside pressures. "The (DaimlerChrysler) AG management and the Chrysler management is not acting in reaction to pressure but in reaction to its own thinking and its own strategic process," he said. Zetsche stressed that the process did not take place only in Stuttgart and that Chrysler CEO Tom LaSorda was involved early on.

"A small, select group of the AG board, and definitely nobody of the supervisory board, took on this task to understand where we are, what the going-forward process should be, and ultimately deciding to look at further options as well," noted Zetsche.

Ford Edge Flies Off Dealer Lots

2007-03-10T07:32:00.000-08:00

It seems customers’ fondness for the Ford Edge never diminished despite their long wait. As a fact, some customers have to drive through a blizzard just to make a purchase. Now that the Ford Edge is pretty much ready to take a plunge into dealers’ lots, customers are thrilled even more.

In the month of January, Ford recorded 5,586 sales of the Edge effortlessly eclipsing the first month sales of the famous Fusion sedan. The automaker recorded 4,078 sales of the Ford Fusion in October 2005.

Sales consultant Susan Blue said that she is still amazed by that customer who braved 18 inches of snow and blocked roads to pick up his new Ford Edge a few weeks ago. One prospect who had talked with Blue in the week said he would come by - to purchase the Ford Edge. "It was bad out," said Blue, who works at Don Seelye Ford in Kalamazoo, Mich. "There was a snow advisory and a snow alert, and I couldn't even see the used car lot from the office window."

Nevertheless, after 45 minutes on the road in what should have been a 15-minute ride, the purchaser pulled up in Blue’s trade-in. The customer is driving a 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT with only 11,000 miles on the odometer. "He saw the Edge ad on TV, but he seemed nonchalant when I talked to him earlier, so I was surprised when he called that day," said Blue. "He was bound and determined to get an Edge."

The purchase transaction was easily done. How quick was the transaction made? It was as quick as opening windows through the use of Ford window motor. After the swift transaction, the customer was instantly rewarded. On his way home, he was riding on a new all-wheel-drive Ford Edge. Since then, the customer called Blue twice and written a letter to say how pleased he is with his new vehicle. And Blue has sold two units more since then. "It's a hot, hot product," she said.

Sheehy Ford in Gaithersburg, Md., also reported an Edge sale involving the trade-in of an upscale foreign model - BMW's luxury crossover, the X5. Sheehy's customer liked their BMW but decided to test drive an Edge after seeing a persuading advertisement of Ford’s crossover. After the test drive, the customers opted not to buy another BMW in favor of the new Ford Edge. The customers said they are considering buying a second Edge when their lease on a BMW 7 series luxury sedan expires later this year.

At the Grand Ford dealership in East Liverpool, Ohio, near the Pennsylvania and West Virginia border, sales manager Rob Migliore thanked the Internet for their first Ford Edge sale. The dealership received its first Edge on a Monday morning and eventually sold it that afternoon to a customer who drove an hour and a half from Uniontown, Ohio - just to purchase the vehicle.

The said customer had been online at the interactive Edge site. With a few clicks on the mouse, they learned that the closest store selling the Ford Edge vehicle is Grand Ford. "We were the ones with the car they wanted so they drove here right away to get it before someone else did," said Migliore.

Sales rep Bob Montgomery relayed a similar story from Jerry Taylor Ford in Grove City, Pa. The dealership got its first Edge equipped with a Vista Roof on a Friday. By Monday morning, Montgomery had sold it to a customer who had driven by the dealership that weekend and spotted the vehicle. "He said it was beautiful, and I went for a test drive, and he said he'd be back in a few minutes. Well, I've heard that one before," said Montgomery.

Montgomery added, “All he says now is how great that Edge rides, even better than the (Toyota) Camry he has at his Florida home." There was an additional benefit in that sale, too. "Every week, he stops by with tomatoes and produce from his greenhouse. I think I've made as much on produce as I did on the commission. (The Edge) is a great vehicle to sell. I just need to sell some more of them," chuckles Montgomery.

By: Katie Jones

February 2007 Sales Figures For Mercedes-benz Reported

2007-03-03T07:42:00.000-08:00

The time has come once again to evaluate the performance of auto makers. Sales figures from different auto industry players have already been announced and while it is a given that some will be winners and some may see decrease in the number of units sold, this monthly evaluation is always a good information source for those following closely the trends in the auto industry.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported that they have sold 17,304 new vehicles for the month of February. The sales figure is lower than their performance last year for the same period. It can be remembered that last year’s output broke their sales record for the month of February. While their sales figure for the month of February this year is lower than last year’s, the car maker saw an increase in their year-to-date total number of vehicles sold. With a strong sale in January, Mercedes-Benz USA posted a 15.2 percent increase from last year through the same period.

Out of the more than 17,000 vehicles, 11,890 of them are passenger cars. The car maker’s C and E-Class units are two of the faster selling models from the Mercedes-Benz lot. Combined, the models posted a 30.9 percent increase in sales over last year’s sales output for the same period. The demand for these models has grown so that it can be likened to the demand for high performance Volvo ball joints. Another model line which has showed an improvement in terms of sales output is the Mercedes Benz M-Class. This family of luxury light trucks posted a 12.8 percent increase over last year’s February sales figures. Last year, during the month of February, Mercedes-Benz USA only managed to sell 55 units of the luxury SUV G-Class, this year though, the luxury car maker sold 172 units which is a 212.7 percent increase.

The car maker also made good performance in terms of selling pre-owned vehicles. Under their Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle Program, Mercedes-Benz reported that they have sold 3,910 pre-owned vehicles for the month of February. This is an increase of 13 percent over last year’s February sales figures of pre-owned vehicles for the company. This year, Mercedes-Benz has sold a total of 7,519 pre-owned units to date. This is a 15.2 percent improvement over last year’s output for the same period.

Mercedes-Benz USA which is based in Montvale, New Jersey is not only charged with the sales, marketing and service of Mercedes-Benz units in the United States but also with Maybach products. It can be remembered that Mercedes-Benz has posted record sales figure for the whole year in 2006. Last year, they have sold a total of 248,080 units while going on a streak of 13 years of consecutive sales growth. This year, the company seems to be doing good considering that they have already surpassed last year’s year-to-date total for the first two months of the year.

By: Glady Reign

Slightly Increased Vehicle Sales In The U.s. For Volvo

2007-03-03T07:39:00.000-08:00

Different car manufacturers have already posted their sales figures for February of this year. From the released sales figure by auto makers, the trends seem to be that Asian car manufacturers are enjoying much success in the U.S. Volvo may not be an Asian brand but the company also posted an increase in their vehicle sales for February. Although the increase is minimal, the fact still remains that Volvo cars are still generating interest in the motoring public.

Recently, along with other players in the U.S. automobile market, Volvo released their sales figure for February of this year. The Volvo Cars of North America reported that they have sold 0.6 percent more units in the United States auto market in February of this year compared to last year during the same period. The subsidiary of the Swedish car maker sold 8,468 units in February this year all over the United States.

While the subsidiary covers the North American continent, more cars are sold in the U.S. than in Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico combined. Although in the report released by Volvo Cars of North America, the sales figure for Puerto Rico is combined with that of the United States

The Volvo XC90 remains as the best selling model of Volvo in the U.S. territory. In February of this year, Volvo sold 2,540 units of the XC90 and this is 0.8 percent more than February 2006’s 2,519 units. The Volvo C70 also posted good sales figure. There are 444.7 percent more C70 units sold in February of this year compared to the sales output last year for the same period. The popularity of the hardtop convertible is evident in the fact that Volvo sold 256 units of the C70 last month which is a very good improvement over last year’s 47 units sold in February. Another model from the 8-car lineup of Volvo in the United States that showed good sales record is the Volvo S40. Volvo sold 2,112 units of the S40 that came with efficient components like the Volvo brake dust shield. The figure shows a 15.2 percent increase in the number of S40 sold last month compared to February 2006.

While Volvo’s performance in February is a little bit better than last year during the same period, the year-to-date figure show a 5.8 percent slip compared to the first two months of 2006. During the first two months last year, Volvo managed to sell 17,298 units in the United States and in Puerto Rico. This year, however, after two months, Volvo only managed to sell 16,287 vehicles in the same area.

Volvo’s strongest selling point remains to be the safety offered by their vehicles. The car maker is known to produce safe cars without sacrificing the performance of the vehicle. The car maker also offers flex-fuel vehicles which runs on bio-ethanol; these vehicles though are only available on selected markets in Europe.

By: Glady Reign

Honda Reports Good Sales Figure For February

2007-03-03T07:36:00.000-08:00

The increase in the popularity of the Honda Accord and the Honda CR-V pushed American Honda brand to post record sales figures for the month of February. The subsidiary of the Japanese car maker sold more than 110,000 units of vehicles from the Acura and Honda brands last month. Last year, the American Honda Motor Company, Inc. sold 106,644 units in the month of February and this shows a 3.2 percent improvement for this year. Following a good sales outing in January with equally good sales figure for February, American Honda now has a total of 210,816 units of Honda and Acura vehicles sold for the first two months of 2007. This year’s year-to-date sales figure is 0.7 percent higher than last year for the same period.

The Honda division’s best seller is still the Accord. American Honda sold 30,370 units of Accord in the region. That is 20.1 percent higher than the number of Accord sold during the second month of 2006. While the conventional engine powered Accord enjoyed increased sales number, the hybrid version did not do so well. From last year’s 783 units sold for February, the number plunged to only 312 for the same month this year. Another model line from the Honda division that made good progress on terms of the number of units sold is the compact SUV CR-V. Last month, American Honda sold 31 percent more CR-V units compared to the number of the said model sold in February of last year.

Although Honda managed to increase their sales figure for February this year, there are Honda models which suffered declining sales numbers. The Honda Civic, another popular sedan from the Japanese brand, received less attention in February of this year. This is true for the conventional Civic. American Honda sold 20,041 units of the Civic during the past month. This is 18.9 percent lower than the number of conventional Civic sold in February of 2006. The hybrid version though of the Civic received much interest from car buyers. There are 8.1 percent more Civic Hybrid bought last month compared to February last year.

In the 24 selling days in February, the Acura division of American Honda sold 13,658 vehicles. That figure is 3.4 percent lower than the number of vehicles that the division sold last year during the same period. Meanwhile, the luxury division failed to overshadow its performance last year for the first two months of the year. Last year, Acura sold 28,127 vehicles for January and February. This year, however, they sold 7.1 percent less than that at 26,675 vehicles. The best seller for the luxury brand is still the MDX

The demand for the Honda Accord and the Honda CR-V that can be likened to the demand of the braking system to a Volvo brake hose is what keeps Honda as one of the more popular brands out in the market. With the fuel efficiency and reliability that comes with the Honda brand, sales records like those set in February will surely keep on coming.

By: Glady Reign

Kia Motors Posts Record Breaking Sales Figure For February 2007

2007-03-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

With the bulk of auto manufacturers posting their sales figures for the past month, it seems that Asian brands are enjoying a great amount of success in the American market. With the likes of Toyota and Honda posting record breaking sales numbers, it seems that Asian brands can do nothing wrong in terms of selling their vehicles. Recently, another Asian brand posted their sales figures for the month of February which shows yet another record breaking number of vehicles sold in the said month.

Kia Motors, the Korean car manufacturer, disclosed to the public that February this year saw them reach sales figure of over 23,500 units. Kia Motors America made known that the last month is the best ever February for the company. They sold 13.5 percent more vehicles in February this year compared to February 2006. In addition to that, Kia also managed to surpass the year-to-date figure that they have set last year for the first two months of the year by 18.6 percent.

The Kia Spectra is one of the reasons for the record breaking month for the auto maker. Out of the 23,512 units that Kia sold in the United States last month, 4,545 of them are Spectra. The popularity of the model is a great help in the effort of the car maker to further instill their name in the hearts of American motorists. Aside from the Spectra, another Kia model which had a positive effect on how things turned out for Kia in terms of sales is the all new Kia Rondo which is yet another minivan from the Korean based auto maker.

The Kia Optima also played a key role in the setting of the new record for February sales. From last year’s sales figure of 1,516 units sold in February to this year’s 2,906 units sold for the same period. The momentum that is taking Kia to new heights can be likened to a car that not even a high performance Volvo brake pad can stop.

Another model that has increased its sales number is the Kia Amanti. Last year, Kia sold only 524 units of the Amanti in February, this year however, the number of Amanti units sold is more than double that number. That is because Kia Motors America sold 1,226 units of the Amanti.

Len Hunt, the COO of Kia Motors America, has this to say about the sales record for the month of February: “Our continued sales momentum is a direct reflection of the steady increases Kia has seen in our brand equity. By working hard to provide our customers with high-value vehicles they can feel proud to own, Kia is becoming top-of-mind on many car buyers’ shopping lists.”

While the Spectra, Optima, and Amanti posted better numbers than last year’s sales figure in February, there are models which failed to surpass their output last year. The Kia Sedona, recently given the distinction of being the “Best Minivan” in connection with the 2007 Chicago Auto Show, has faltered in terms of sales. Kia sold 4,981 units of the Sedona last month, lower than the 5,425 units of the vehicle sold in February of last year.

By: Glady Reign

Suzuki Sets Best Sales Record For February

2007-03-03T07:25:00.000-08:00

Following the last day of February, car makers started releasing their sales figures for the month of February. The current trend shows Asian brands setting sales record after sales record. Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi, Kia, and, now, Suzuki has reported that they have sold more vehicles last month compared to the number of vehicles they sold in February of last year. American Suzuki Motor Corporation disclosed that they sold 8,585 units and that figure is the highest number of vehicles that they have sold in Februarys throughout their 22 years of existence.

Although the increase is only one percent, the fact that the company has made sales figure improvement month after month is nothing short of impressive. The record breaking number of vehicles sold for last month follows closely the milestone that the company reached last year. It can be remembered that Suzuki sold more than 100,000 vehicles for the first time last year.

Koichi Suzuki, the President of American Suzuki Automotive Operations, has this to say about the accomplished feat: “We’re excited to see Suzuki’s dynamic automobile sales momentum continue through the first quarter of 2007. In 2006, Suzuki achieved a significant milestone in the U.S. by surpassing 100,000 units in annual sales, and we expect the growing popularity of the XL7 and the SX4 to help us continue to sell Suzuki automobiles at a record pace.” Indeed, that dedication on the part of the leadership team can only benefit the organization and it would perhaps take a Volvo brake system to stop the forward surge of the Japanese car maker.

One of the models in Suzuki’s lineup which played a key role in the setting of a new record for February in terms of sale is the Suzuki XL7. This mid-size crossover sport utility vehicle has captured the attention of the American public. Suzuki sold 2,513 units of the XL7, which is 40 percent better than February 2006’s sales figure at 1,789 units. Another reason for the record breaking February sales number is the fact that the Aerio sedan and the SX4 compact crossover both sold well. Combined, the Aerio and the SX4 posted 1,254 units sold which is 68 percent more than last year’s combined figure of 748 units sold.

While the aforementioned models performed well, some of the models in the lineup of Suzuki countered their positive effect. For example, Suzuki sold 1,634 units of the Grand Vitara last month. But that figure is 29 percent less than the number of Grand Vitaras the company sold in February of last year.

Surely, there would be fast sellers and slow sellers in any lineup, but Suzuki takes a step farther to market their vehicles. In fact, they offer the best warranty in the U.S. They offer a 100,000-mile/seven-year, zero-deductible, fully-transferable limited powertrain warranty.

By: Glady Reign

February 2007 Sales For Mazda Down By One Percent From Last Year

2007-03-03T07:20:00.000-08:00

Car makers are now starting to post their sales figures for the moth of February. In connection with this, the Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) recently released their sales figures for the month of February this year. Their total sales figure for the month of February for trucks and cars is 22,067 units. This is some 6.4 percent lower than last year’s sales figure which amounts to 23,580 vehicles. The car maker has sold 41,332 units for this year until February. This is a marginal decrease from last year’s 41,757 units.

The decrease in the sales figures by the Asian car manufacturer is due to poor sales of cars and trucks. As a matter of fact, the only model which sold higher this year over February of last year is the Mazda3 vehicle. For February of this year, the car manufacturer sold 8,667 units of the Mazda3. This is a 15 percent increase over last year’s sales figure for the said model. Even the fancy Mazda MX-5 Miata did not live up to its billing for February. Mazda managed to sell 1,107 units of the Miata, which is down by 14.5 percent from February 2006 sales figure for the model.

The Mazda5 and the Mazda6 also showed a decrease in terms of sale compared to February of last year. The Mazda5 showed a slip of 26.7 percent while the Mazda6 slipped by 18.5 percent.

The biggest slip in the 11 vehicle lineup of Mazda is the MPV. For February, Mazda only sold one unit of the MPV - this is a far cry from last year’s 1,546 units sold. That showed a decrease of 99.9 percent. A very poor performance indeed and such a feat cannot be even compared to the high performance level of Volvo belts.

Another model that did poorly in terms of sale is the Mazda Tribute. Last year, Mazda sold 3,122 units of the model in February. This year though, Mazda only managed to sell 402 units of the vehicle. Following the Mazda MPV, the Tribute is the second worst performer in the lineup with a decrease of 87.1 percent.

Aside from the Mazda5, good news also comes from the sales figure of the new vehicles introduced just recently by Mazda in the market. The CX-7 showed strong sales figures; Mazda sold 2,952 of this model for the month of February. Another new release which showed strong acceptance from car buyers is the CX-9. Mazda sold 1,168 units of this model. The year-to-date figure for the CX-7 has reached 5,719 for the first two months of the year. Meanwhile, the year-to-date figure for the CX-9 has now reach 1,250 units. With the help of these two models, Mazda may be on its way to increasing their sales figure for the succeeding month when compared to last year’s performance in the market.

By: Glady Reign

Audi Records Net Profit For 2006…vw's Investors Very Happy

2007-03-03T07:18:00.000-08:00

This year is turning up just the way Europe’s largest automaker and manufacturer of quality VW parts has predicted it to be—a great year for them! Volkswagen’s cash cows are living up to the expectations of their parent automaker.

News of sales increase is flooding the automaker starting with the Skoda which has recorded an amazing increase in its worldwide sale in 2006 and earned a pre-tax profit surge of 40.6%. It can be remembered that Skoda was once a laughing stock in the automotive world but due to the remarkable management of its parent company, Volkswagen, it has become one of the profitable subsidiaries of VW.

Last Wednesday, another profit producing subsidiary of Volkswagen has announced that its 2006 net profit has rose by 63% resulting from it record sales of 1.34 billion euros or $1.77 billion USD. The Audi, which is a luxury car unit of Volkswagen, has again made the investors very happy. The German automobile manufacturer has also said that it would sell more than a million cars in 2008 and surpass its last year’s sales record with this year’s sales. Audi is confident that the introduction of its sleek new A5 model in June would help boost its sales for this year.

It should be noted that the new VW CEO Martin Winterkorn who is also the previous boss of Audi has made significant contributions to the success of the unit. The current boss of Audi is Rupert Stadler who said that the unit is well on its way to becoming the industry’s most successful luxury car maker by 2015. “We are the fastest-growing premium brand in the world.”

For the year 2006, Audi has sold a total of 905,188 cars which boost its revenue by 15% to 31.14 billion euros or $41.2 billion USD. The recorded increase in sales by the Audi unit has affected the VW shares closing at 2.72 euros or $3.60 or 2.9% at 95.64 euros ($126.49) on a trading that closes last Wednesday in Frankfurt.

By: Benjsmin Hudson

Skoda New Fabia Hatchback Premieres At Geneva Motor Show

2007-03-03T07:15:00.000-08:00

Skoda Auto will launch its new Fabia Hatchback at the Geneva Motors Show. The new Fabia will sport a larger passenger and luggage compartments. This five-door small-class vehicle is said to be more spacious than its predecessor. Its shape also reflects its Skoda heritage which guarantees its position in the market.

The new Skoda Hatchback offers a fresh design and dynamic body lines which would surely attract dynamic and younger customers. There are seven engine options available for the new Fabia Hatchback and four of which are petrol while the remaining three are diesels—delivering 44 to 77 kW (60-105 hp)---enough to meet customer’s requirements for the small class vehicles. The new Skoda Hatchback also boasts of a low emission level of CO2 compared to its competitors from 120g/km. And since it’s one of the major subsidiaries of Volkswagen, it makes use of only the best quality VW parts for its car production.

The Fabia model to be presented at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show is actually a concept vehicle that will present the design of the new model in an elegant blend of colors. The contrast between the black body with a pearl effect and the silver-painted roof creates a combination that is not only impressive but aesthetically appealing. An attractive white painted roof will also be made available for the new mass-produced Fabia.

Aside from the new Fabia, Skoda Auto—Volkswagen’s Czech subsidiary---is also planning to present another unveiling in Geneva but this time it’s going to be the S2000. The S2000 is a concept car that provides a glimpse on the possibility that Skoda Auto may engaged in motoring sport. Another Skoda vehicle to watch out for is the Roomster Scout which has a distinctive design that offers something special for those who wants to show their unique style and personalities.

The Skoda Octavia and Superb engine range has added two brand new units: a turbocharged 1.81 engine (160 hp) which replaced the four-cylinder 2.0 FSI (110 kW, 150 hp) in the Octavia while the Superb has received a new 85 kW diesel (115 hp) in place of its 77 kW engine used which delivers 105 hp. The new engines are created in accordance with the EU4 emission standard, have powerful torque, and are extremely economical. Visitors on the show will also be given the chance to be familiar with Skoda Auto’s complete range of products.

2006 was the best year for Skoda Auto since it was able to sell 549,667 vehicles surpassing the expected sale of the automaker. And comparing it with the automaker’s sale for 2005, its sales have increased by 11.7%.

By: Benjsmin Hudson

Vw's Lamborghini Announces Quadrupled Pretax Profit For 2006

2007-03-03T07:12:00.000-08:00

The Lamborghini SpA is considered a sports car of the stars and two famous personalities own one of these beauties. Actor Jamie Foxx and soccer star David Beckham are just two of the famous personalities that own a Lamborghini.

The Lamborghini SpA is an Italian company that is a subsidiary of the German car manufacturer Audi which is in turn is a subsidiary of Europe’s largest automaker, Volkswagen---renowned in the world for its unparalleled vehicles and quality auto parts like the VW antenna mast. According to the Italian company they have obtained a pretax profit for 2006 which is more than quadrupled of what they have expected. Such remarkable financial turnaround of Lamborghini SpA was the result of the launching of new models which have attracted customers.

The pretax profit earned by the Italian super luxury sports car unit of Volkswagen AG for 2006 rose to a record of 18.1 million euros or $24 million USD from 4.4 million euros in 2005. Similarly, the overall sales of Lamborghini have increased by 43 percent or 346.3 million euros.

Last year Lamborghini’s sales rose by 30 percent totaling to 2,087 sports cars. Stephan Winkelmann, Division President of Lamborghini has pushed to increase sales by boosting production to 13 cars daily last year from one car a day in 2000. He was also able to help in improving Lambo’s finances and by 2004 Sant’ Agata Bolognese, Italy-based carmaker returned to profit.

According to Winkelmann in an interview in Ingolstadt, Germany, “We have a complete model range, which is the youngest we have ever had. We are now a real car manufacturer.”

It should be noted that last year the Italian super luxury sports car unit of Volkswagen has launched two new models namely the Gallardo Spyder and Murcielago Coupe LP 640. The carmaker was able to sell a total of 817 Spyders in 2006 and 318 Murcielago Coupes also on the same year.

Winkelmann has also said that starting January this year they are expecting for sales to rise by at least 5 percent boost by the Murcielago LP640 Roadster. The Murcielago is offered at a base price of $350,000 and will be marketed in the first half of 2007. Winkelmann further added that the Murcielago Roadster is already sold out for 2007 while a couple of the Roadster for 2008 is partially sold. “For financial year 2007, the company plans to continue to generate solid and sustainable growth in sales and profits.”

The Italian luxury sports car manufacturer is also focusing on adding 10 to 12 dealers from its present network of 100 dealers. And Lamborghini is planning to open half of those dealerships in the US where it has obtained more than 40 percent of its sales. Lamborghini was able to sell more than 300 units in California alone making it the single-largest market.

By: Benjsmin Hudson

Mitsubishi Continues Success In The U.s. Market

2007-03-03T07:08:00.000-08:00

Asian brands have been enjoying success recently in the U.S. market. Leading the way for the group are the brands Toyota and Honda. But other car manufacturers from the Orient are making their presence felt in the U.S. automobile market. Case in point is Mitsubishi Motors. This Asian car manufacturer is continuing its success in terms of sales in the U.S. The auto maker recently released the results of their outing in the automobile jungle for the month of February this year.

The report shows that Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. sold 9,726 units - an improvement of 22 percent over last year’s figure for the same period. Last year, Mitsubishi managed to sell 7,976 units for the month of February. This significant increase in the number of units sold by the car maker shows that more and more American motorist are opting for the Japanese brand. It is also the fruit of the labors of the people behind the company and in every department.

Mitsubishi has also surpassed last year’s year-to-date sales figure for the first two months of the year. Sales figures for the first two months of this year are 23.7 percent higher than that of last year’s for the same period. The 22 percent increase in sales for the month of February comes on the heels of good sales figures posted in January. Mitsubishi managed to increase their sales compared to the previous year in eight of the eleven months of the current fiscal year.

Hiroshi Harunari, the Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc., has this to say about their success in the past two months: “While we are pleased with the sales of the past two months, all of MMNA is enthusiastically looking to the future. The marketplace performance of our products provides tremendous forward momentum and in the spring, we will add the exciting all-new Lancer sedan to the mix.” Indeed, it seems that the rise of popularity of Mitsubishi in U.S. soil cannot be checked even with a Volvo brake caliper.

Among the vehicles in Mitsubishi’s line up, the Outlander crossover SUV showed significantly good sales figures. The fuel efficient vehicle is being welcomed warmly by fuel cost conscious Americans. This is evident in the fact that Mitsubishi sold 1,956 units of the Outlander. That is an 84 percent improvement over last year’s performance in the market. Not only that, the Outlander has surpassed its year-to-date figure of last year by 114 percent. The Galant also showed good acceptance from the motoring public. Its sales are up by 9.7 percent over February 2006 while its year-to-date figure is 7.2 percent higher than the first two months of 2007. The Mitsubishi Endeavor SUV also posted an increase over last year in terms of sale for the same period. Mitsubishi sold 35 percent more Endeavor in February this year than in February of 2006.

By: Glady Reign

Volkswagen To Recall 790,000 Vehicles

2007-03-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Forbes.com is famous for its “best”, “most” and “worst” lists and for the year 2006 it has recorded the Most Recalled Vehicles which are as follows:

• Dodge Ram with 7 recalls
• Dodge Durango with 6 recalls
• Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra with 4 recalls
• Honda Civic with 4 recalls
• Hyundai Sonata with 4 recalls
• Jeep Liberty with 4 recalls
• Land Rover LR3 with 4 recalls
• Land Rover Range Rover with 4 recalls

As you may have observe no Volkswagen vehicle is included in the list but it doesn’t mean that Europe’s largest is free from recalls. It has also recalled some 362,000 new Beetles and Jettas due to defects found on the brake light switch. The recall has affected 1999-2002 Jettas and 1998-2002 new Beetles.

And last Monday, Volkswagen of America Inc. has announced that it would recall 790,000 of its vehicles due to the same problem—defective brake light switch. The said recall would involve several models of Volkswagen such as: 1999-2006 model years of the Golf and GTI, 2001-2005 Jettas, 2001-2007 New Beetles and the 2004 R32.

Volkswagen has earlier reported to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that the brake light switches in the vehicles to be recalled could malfunction if they were improperly installed. The automaker further stated that the brake light could either remain on or failed to completely function. The danger of this is that it could give other motorists with the wrong braking signal which might lead to a crashing accident.

According to Keith Price VW spokesman, in some vehicles with automatic transmissions, a defective brake light could work in with the shift interlock to immobilize the vehicle and afterwards be simply towed. He also said that the current recall is actually an extension of last year’s recall since the company “has found out that there was a broader pool of vehicles that had the defective part.”

Price added that all those with 2001-2002 New Beetles and Jettas that have been repaired following the last year’s recall doesn’t need to return for the second time. For this year’s recall VW dealers will install new VW parts particularly the newly designed brake light switch for free. The recall will begin in late April and owners are advised to call VW for any queries that they may have. The VW number to contact is 800-822-8987.

By: Benjsmin Hudson

5 Tips To Buying Cars On Ebay Motors

2007-03-02T01:21:00.000-08:00

There are many terrific benefits to buying cars on eBay Motors, including a price that the you get to determine, lower insurance and the absence of a car payment every month if you pay in full. If you plan on buying used cars on eBay Motors in the near future, here are several tips to make sure that the road to your new ride is a smooth one.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 1Check with your local automobile insurance agent before deciding on a specific used car. If the cost of auto insurance is an important deciding factor, you should be aware that SUVs will be more expensive than a car. Regardless, however, a used car will carry more affordable insurance than a new one of the same model and make.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 2Request a CarFax report. This information is available for a reasonable fee and includes information regarding the car’s history, including whether or not it has been flooded or if it has ever been involved in any type of accident. In addition, the number of previous owners and whether or not the title is clear should also be included in a CarFax report.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 3Check out the car’s value with Kelly Blue Book. This source is one of the most trusted when it comes to providing new or used car values. By entering certain information into the website, car shoppers can learn what that particular automobile should be sold for. This can help potential buyers realize whether or not they are getting a good deal.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 4Consider gas mileage. An SUV will typically use more gasoline than a compact car, which is important if the cost of fuel is a major deciding factor in your purchase.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 5Select a used car with as little mileage as possible. This should mean that the car has a longer life and hasn’t been used excessively.

And finally, when buying cars on eBay Motors, make sure that the automobile you choose is one that fits your lifestyle. For example, a family would likely be more comfortable in a van or SUV, while a single person or a married couple may be perfectly happy with a compact car. The design of an automobile that you may consider buying on eBay Motors will ultimately depend on your intended use and how many are in your family that will be riding along at the same time.

By: Maxine Schel -

21 Reasons For Exporting A Used Car From Japan

2007-03-02T01:08:00.000-08:00

There has never been a better time to import a used car from Japan and save big dollars. Exports from Japan have been steadily increasing for the last three years as more and more dealers, wholesalers and private buyers around the world realize this great opportunity.

Reason #1: Wide product rangeDue to the very competitive domestic Japanese car market, there are an abundance of models and manufacturers in Japan manufacturers including Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Fuji Heavy Industries (Subaru), Suzuki and Daihatsu.

Reason #2: K-class Mini CarsThis is a new type of car which has been created in Japan to address Environmental concerns, demand for fuel efficiency and the general the lack of space on Japanese roads. All K-class vehicles meet a specification which restricts the weight, engine displacement (maximum of 660cc) and exterior dimensions. K cars have excellent cost performance are in growing demand around the world.

Reason #3: Excellent Japanese road conditions Despite the lack of space, Japanese roads are extremely well maintained meaning normal wear and tear which might be attributed to poor road conditions in other countries is not a problem in Japan.

Reason #4: Average vehicle age The average age of all vehicles on Japanese roads is almost sure to be lower than most other countries. It is unusual to see cars older than 15 years on the roads at all. The Japan Automotive Manufacturers Association (JAMA) reports average vehicle age to be approximately 5.8 years.

Reason #5: Higher model specificationsDue to an abundance of models from each manufacturer and the Japanese penchant for new electronic and other gadgetry, the specifications of a Japanese vehicle produced for the domestic market will usually be much higher than foreign-produced equivalents. This means you can buy a Japanese export model with all the features you like for the same price as a base model bought domestically.

Reason #6: Low mileageMost Japanese live in cities which lack space and are very dense in terms of population. Since everything necessary to live a comfortable life is within close reach for the typical Japanese, domestic drivers average mileage is typically less than half that of other countries. The Japanese Motor Vehicle Inspection Registration Association reports average mileage for Japanese domestic drivers to be around 9,000km annually. American drivers, on the other hand, drive and average of 19,000 kms each year.

Reason #7: Relative cost Even after taking into account costs such as freight and local compliance it is almost always cheaper to import a used car from Japan than to buy an equivalent used car locally. There are several reasons for Japanese exports being so cheap, primary amongst them is the mandatory Japanese vehicle safety inspections which effectively increase the cost of ownership as the vehicle ages.

Reason #8: Excellent resale value Japanese cars, particularly Toyota and Lexus, generally hold much more of their value over the lifetime of the product than foreign counterparts such as Ford and GM.

Reason #9: Highly efficient automated auction systems Instead of purchasing from private sellers or through local used car dealers whose reputation and business practices may be circumspect, used Japanese cars may be purchased at wholesale prices through very efficient auction houses run by Toyota, Nissan and other reputable companies. Each vehicle placed into an auction is photographed, inspected and graded and this information is useful, accurate and available to potential buyers.

Reason #10: No need to deal with sleazy local used car salesmenIt is an unfortunate fact that the used car industry around the world has the reputation of being filled with unsavory types who deceive and lie in order to gouge their customers on every deal. Whether this is true or not, buying a Japanese export car removes the need to deal with these individuals at all.

Reason #11: Japanese cultural habit of always buying new Typical Japanese drivers are loathe to buy a car that someone else has used, regardless of the value proposition inherent in doing so. Thus Japanese customarily purchase new cars every 5-7 years, creating a pool of high quality, low mileage, high-spec used cars ready for resale around the world.

Reason #12: No need to waste time and money with private sellersIt is well know that buying a used car from a private seller is sometimes a good way to find a bargain, but this kind of purchase may be quite risky for a buyer who is not mechanically inclined. It can also be very time consuming dealing with private sellers, trying to schedule meetings and test drives and traveling around town to inspect vehicles which are often not as advertised. .

Reason #13: Abundance of Japan-based used car exporters and specialists Since Japan represents the second largest vehicle manufacturing country in the world and the number of exports from Japan are growing every year there are many exporters and specialists who can assist you in sourcing and exporting your car. Due to the number of people vying for your business you can choose an exporter that you like and gain very competitive pricing as well.

Reason #14: Japanese safety regulations The Japanese roadworthy testing system is a positive for two reasons: (1) All Japanese vehicles are subjected to exhaustive bi-annual testing and mechanical checks to ensure they are well maintained and (2) gaining roadworthy (called Shaken in Japan) usually costs a lot, artificially inflating the ongoing running costs year by year as the car gets older. The latter is one of the primary reasons Japanese drivers trade up to a new car so quickly and so often.

Reason #15: Increasing shipping capacity and shipment optionsMany vehicle transportation companies are increasing their capacity to freight both new and used vehicles from Japan due to growth in this market. For individuals wishing to purchase 2-4 cars at a time shipment by container is also an option which may be faster, more secure and possibly cheaper depending upon the destination port.

Reason #16: Availability of objective information On the internet today there are many automotive review sites dedicated to the provision of accurate, timely and objective data for all types of Japanese cars. It is no longer necessary for individual buyers to rely on salespeople or manufacturer marketing literature to gain an accurate understanding of specifications, prices and vehicle conditions prior to purchase.

Reason #17: Auction assessments and evaluations Every auto auction house in Japan performs mechanical tests and assessments by trained technicians prior to entry of the vehicle at auction. These evaluations are very detailed and accurate and include all pertinent information along with grading for the exterior and interior of the vehicle.

Reason #18: Flexible payment terms While most exporters prefer to be paid via telegraphic transfer, credit card/paypal payments and payments via letter of credit are becoming more common. Most exporters are open to alternative payment methods and the foreign buyer may also consider escrow services if hesitant about sending large sums of money abroad for the first time.

Reason #19: No need to speak Japanese Due to the huge market which has developed in used Japanese car exports there are many people from many different nations involved in this business. Buyers from Pakistan can communicate with exporters in Urdu. Buyers from Russia can speak in local dialects with Japanese exporters in Northern states, where Russian speakers are common. Almost every Japan-based exporter speaks English too. You do not need to worry about communication problems.

Reason #20: Availability of parts While Japanese domestic models are usually higher spec than their foreign-manufactured equivalents the fact that so many Japanese manufacturing plants exist around the world mean that common parts for popular vehicles are likely to be available cheaply in local markets. In the event that a part is not available domestically, there are many parts specialists who can help in locating a required part.

Reason #21: Trucks, buses ands machinery also available While used cars are currently the most popular automotive export, sourcing of buses, trucks and machinery is also becoming more common. Japanese trucks are mostly purpose-built, while those manufactured in other countries are not. Thus it is possible to obtain the perfect truck for the job at hand by exporting it from Japan. Once again, the quality and value of these items exceeds what could normally be attained locally.

Conclusion

Buying a new or used car from Japan is a great way to get your dream car and save money doing it. Although it may not be the quickest way to buy, more and more satsifed buyers are taking advantage of this great opportunity. Since the purchase of a car is usually a major decision and an expensive proposition, exporting your next car from Japan is definately worthy of consideration.

By: Keith Gottliebsen

10 Safety Tips When Riding An Atv

2007-03-02T00:53:00.000-08:00

More and more these days, riders of all terrain vehicles (ATVs) are becoming injured or even killed when their ATV wrecks, enforcing the need for safe operating procedures. This is especially important for teenagers who are interested in riding ATVs and are less likely to practice safe conduct while operating the vehicles. Keep in mind that ATVs are just as dangerous as cars, motorcycles, trucks, or sport utility vehicles, so only operate them using the proper techniques and procedures. Many riders neglect the fact that these vehicles have the capability to extremely injure or kill the drivers, but in the correct hands, ATVs can be a fun way to spend time in the great outdoors. Follow these ten safety tips when riding any ATV:

1.) Only drivers over the age of 16 should operate an ATV.The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends that children under the age of 16 should not operate an ATV. This is especially important, since younger children are usually injured on ATVs due to their size or inexperience with operating vehicles. Even once a child is 16 and able to operate an ATV, adult supervision should be present at all times.

2.) Always wear protective gear.Just like operating a motorcycle or bike, riding an ATV requires you use proper protective gear. ALWAYS wear a helmet. Most serious or fatal accidents occur when the rider is not wearing a helmet and falls on his or her head. Helmets may not be the most stylish accessory, but they can literally save your life. Also, since most riders operate ATVs in wooded environments, be sure to wear proper eye protection, as a rock, branch, or even a bug can fly into your eye and cause damage. Furthermore, be sure to wear boots and gloves to protect your hands and feet while operating the ATV.

3.) Take a driver’s safety course.Before you drive a car, you take a safety course, so why should driving an ATV be any different? Safety courses educate riders of the correct way to operate and ride an ATV to ensure he or she knows how to handle the vehicle. Also, safety courses will teach riders of all ages the appropriate behavior when riding an ATV, making it critical for teens and adults to attend.

4.) Only one rider per vehicle.ATVs are designed for only one rider at a time. Since you have to manipulate your weight in order to control the vehicle, two riders on a vehicle is incredibly dangerous. Also, the ATV may be unable to successfully hold the combined weight of two riders, making it less stable and more apt to roll over. Finally, having an additional rider can distract the driver from the task of properly operating the vehicle.

5.) Ride ATVs in appropriate settings.When it comes to where to ride your ATV, ensure you choose a proper setting. Avoid roads and streets, since ATVs are not designed nor intended to be driven on concrete or asphalt with larger cars and trucks. Also, avoid improper terrain that may encourage the ATV to roll over due to instability in the ground.

6.) Do not speed.ATVs are designed to go a certain speed safely. Increasing the speed—especially through certain terrains—decreases your control and the vehicle’s stability, making you more prone to have an accident.

7.) Do not operate an ATV impaired.Many adults find themselves tempted to operate an ATV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Even over the counter or prescription medications can impair your reaction time, thinking process, and judgment, so be sure to avoid operating an ATV during this time. Just like drinking and driving, alcohol and ATV driving does not mix.

8.) Carry a communication device with you at all times.ATV operations should be sure to carry a cell phone or walkie talkie with them at all times so that they can call for help in the event of an emergency. This is especially true if you are riding alone, which is not encouraged, so that someone will be able to find you if you become injured. Whenever you plan to ride your ATV, you should either have another individual with you or notify someone of where you are going and when you plan to return.9.) Do not attempt tricks or stunts while riding an ATV.The most injuries on ATVs occur when the vehicles are operated improperly. Take great care in riding your ATV and be sure to avoid any tricks or stunts that will encourage an accident. Furthermore, avoid improper interaction with other individuals, whether they are on an ATV or not.10.) Use common sense.This final safety tip is by far the best. Your common sense can carry you a long way, especially involving your safety.

By: Donna Somerkin -

Drving Tips: how to drive in winter conditions

2007-03-01T08:12:00.000-08:00

The hazards of winter driving, which can be decreased by taking a precautionary measures beforehand. Information for ice, rain and other adverse situations.

When the cold weather arrives, especially in the Northwest and Northeast, this is always a good time to check over vehicles to ensure and to avoid problems that may occur at the most inconvenient time. For instance, these problems may occur on that first cold wintry morning when the car won’t start because of a weak battery. Or after a long hard day at work, when leaving work, it’s dark and the cold wind is blowing, and the snow is falling, and the roads are getting icier with every passing minute, making the ride home possibly a long and treacherous one. And if the car won’t start this only adds to the frustration. But by taking a few preventive measures beforehand, the above scenario can hopefully be avoided.

1. Before winter sets in it would be a good time to have a general tune up done especially of the car’s engine. This will ensure that such items as the ignition, the carburetor, fan belts, are in good working order and won’t necessarily present any problems later on.

2. While having this done, it would be a good thing to have the battery checked to see if perhaps a new one is needed.

3. Also a good time to have spark plugs checked, and replaced with new ones if that is necessary. Checking cables to these plugs also will ensure they, too, are in good working order.

4. Replacing the air and fuel filters again will ensure that these won’t present a problem later on.

5. If this hasn’t been done, also replacing or adding more antifreeze to the cooling system. Depending on how long the antifreeze has been in the cooling system, it might be a good idea to drain the old fluid, and then replace it with a mixture of antifreeze and water.

6. Snow tires will be required in the cold climate areas. If the vehicle is front wheel drive, then front snow tires will be needed. If the vehicle is rear wheel drive, then mount the snow tires at the rear. Ensure they are inflated to manufacturer’s specification. Or have chains put on in those areas that are known for their heavy snowfalls.

7. Windshield washer fluid is a must especially during the winter driving months. Check periodically to ensure that there is enough inside the reservoir. Doing this often will alleviate running out of this fluid when you need it the most, in sloppy weather when windshields are splattered with mud, making driving all that more difficult.

8. It is a good idea to keep certain supplies inside the trunk of the vehicle on hand, which would be devoted to winter driving. These will come in handy whenever forced to drive through snowbound unplowed roads where the possibility of getting stuck is much greater. The items recommended are sand or even cat litter for gaining traction beneath the tires on icy roads. A medium shovel to help dig oneself out in case of getting stuck in a deep snow drift. A supply of nonperishable foods, such as box of crackers, canned good, and a can opener and a few eating utensils in case the roads do become impassable and there is no quick rescue.

9. Also, it is good to have on hand warm blankets, flashlights, and extra batteries, as well as a cigarette lighter or matches. The matches should be kept inside a metal container to keep them dry. One use of the matches might be to thaw out any locks that may become frozen. Although by lubricating the cylinders inside a lock with graphite (found in auto supply stores) will help prevent these locks from becoming frozen in the first place.

10. There is nothing more frustrating than windshield wipers that don’t work properly when cleaning off the windshield. Ensure these are working properly, and if they are too worn to do their job, then replace them with new blades.

11. Ensuring the windshield defroster as well as the rear window defogger/deicer if present is all working properly will help make driving in bad weather conditions not only safe but also less frustrating.

By taking the above precautionary measures before the winter sets in, you will help alleviate most of the foreseeable problems down the line. Also, doing this will help make winter driving not only safer for everyone on the road, but also a little less stressful for all those involved.

Written by MARIE ROY - © 2002 Pagewise

How to clean car seats

2007-03-01T08:11:00.000-08:00

The next time you clean out your car, give the seats a special going-over to keep them fresh and neat as well as long-lasting.

Doesn't it feel great to step inside a freshly cleaned car? Leaning back into the driver’s or passenger’s seat, you breathe deeply, enjoying the fresh scent of newly cleaned upholstery. Free of dust, lint, and trash, your vehicle will seem almost brand new. You can especially appreciate clean seats, since they hold your weight and come in close contact with your body. Give them special attention when you clean the car's interior.

1. First, remove all trash, debris, and personal items from the four car seats to free them for cleaning. Lengthen the seat belts so these can be cleaned as well. Push your front seats back as far as they can go, and bend rear seats forward with the lever so you can reach under them. Draw a bucket of hot water and add a few drops of mild detergent. Get a whiskbroom and a clean scrubbing cloth to work with.

2. Next, use the broom to brush away crumbs, lint, and hair from each seat. Do the same for the headrest, backs, and floor areas under the seats. Then use a portable vacuum cleaner to sweep away the remaining debris, using the extension nozzle to reach between, beside, and under the central area. While you're at it, you might as well vacuum the floor after removing the mats. Take out any large objects, like coins or toothpicks, by hand to avoid harming the sweeper. Use a napkin to wipe off sticky substances like gum or hard candy.

3. Dip the cloth in the soapy water and wipe off each seat’s fabric, giving special effort to spots or stains. Rinse the cloth and wring out excess water before turning your attention to the vinyl portions of the seat areas. You may have to scrub the dingy spots to remove oil and grime. Don't forget to clean the seat levers, along with the underside of each seat that you can reach by hand.

4. Rinse your cloth in clear water and wipe away the soapy residue from the seating areas that were just washed. You may have to do this a couple of times to get it all. As the fabric dries, look for missed spots and apply a small amount of mild degreaser, following directions on the label. Remove as indicated.

5. Dip your whiskbroom in the soapy water and brush the floor carpet around and under each seat. Wash the mats separately. Wipe off the inside doors beside the seats, checking ashtrays and handles for special cleaning needs, such as spilled food or beverages. Lift the headrest and wipe underneath each one. Then wipe off each seatbelt, using degreaser for tough spots if needed. Don’t forget the backs of the seats as well.

When you are finished, your seats should feel fresh and clean. Visually inspect the entire interior and finish washing up the other sections, giving a last glance at the four seats. Place a fresh fragrance in one of the side ashtrays to help deodorize the vehicle. You may want to invest in seat covers to protect the upholstery and make it last.

Written by Thanapong S.

How to find good cheap car insurance

2007-03-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Learn how to find good car insurance, typical state-required liability limits of auto insurance, what most people typically purchase, and what is really needed for the consumer's protection.

Do you know the liability limits of your automobile insurance?

Most states now require every driver to carry liability insurance; however, the minimum requirements vary from state to state. The majority of states require no more than 20/40/10(many require only 10/20/10), meaning if you are liable for an accident, the other party may collect no more than the single bodily injury limit (for one person) of $20,000.00 and no more than the limit of $40,000.00 for all injuries sustained to the innocent parties. The last 10,000.00 listed is for the property damage sustained by the innocent party (Have you seen many cars repaired or valued at $10,000.00 recently?).

Have you looked at a hospital bill lately?

Let's suppose you are on your way back from working the midnight shift at the local hospital or the local plant. You know you are very tired, but feel certain you will make it home safely. Unfortunately, you fall asleep behind the wheel and go left-of-center, hitting another vehicle head-on. There are four teenagers in that vehicle; the passenger in the front seat and one of the passengers in the back seat are killed instantly. The driver sustains somewhat minor inuries and the other passenger is admitted to ICU after emergency surgery to repair internal organ damage.

Will $20,000.00 be enough to settle the injury claim of either or both of the now deceased teenagers? If both families are paid the $20,000.00 limits and actually agree to sign a release on your behalf, what is left for the other two injured teenagers?

In reality, if you have the BEST liabilty limits of 100/300/100, will $300,000.00 be enough to pay for the two death claims, the teenager's claim who is seriously injured and in ICU AND the driver who has some claim also, even if it is minor, in comparison to the other occupants' of the vehicle?

The REAL question is "DO YOU HAVE ANY ASSETTS?". "ANY" is the important word in the above sentence. If you do OR if you do not want to be in a position to prove the value of those assetts or the absence of assetts, you should consider purchasing an umbrella policy, which would (generally) protect you up to one million dollars and includes liability protection for automobile and homeowners claims. Most umbrella policies are fairly inexpensive: approximately $25 per month, depending on your circumstances.

An umbrella policy is probably the BEST way to avoid litigation AND offer you REAL protection in a society that often seeks an apportunity to collect "free" money. Most important, however, an umbrella policy is the protection you NEED should you ever find yourself in a position where your negligence has caused injury to another--a position NONE of us like to be in, but one that is common---obviously, since that is the sole reason insurance ever became such a necessary "evil" in our society.

Written by Thanapong S.

Consumer Guide: Tips for buying a new car

2007-03-01T07:54:00.000-08:00

Buying a new car is a huge investment, this guide gives you hints about negotiating for automobile.

Buying a new vehicle is a large investment, so you should insist that you get the most for your money. There a ways to prepare yourself for buying a new vehicle, especially at a new vehicle dealership. The major mistake that most consumers make is seeing a car or truck and saying I have to have that vehicle. Some consumers stat that they have fallen in love with that particular vehicle. The very first rule of purchasing a new vehicle is flexibility.

What counts when buying a new vehicle is not only the car or truck itself but also the business you purchase it from. If the new vehicle is bought from a business with shady business ethics, you will have problems in the future. New vehicles come with warranties, if you purchased your vehicle from a business that is questionable, you may have difficulties if warranty work needs to be done.

If you have made the decision that yes, I am going to buy a brand new vehicle, the first step is to have an idea of what kind of vehicle you would like. With this in mind, begin searching the phone books and newspapers for dealerships that stock the vehicle you’re interested in. You will want to choose five to six different businesses. Begin by going to each dealership and checking out the way the are set up, their employees attitudes, is the manager available for any questions. Good to Excellent customer service is what you are looking for in a dealership. If they do not have a good customer service available to you when you are just browsing, what makes you believe they are going to be their after you have made your purchase.

After you have established the dealership that you are interested in and you have a car in mind, schedule an appointment to sit down with a salesperson you have chosen. Before the appointment make sure you have educated yourself on the car you want, its features and average prices. Begin by letting the salesperson clearly understand your wants, this is usually where they start taking over, you must stay in control. It is your money and you will own the vehicle, not them.

In your are going to finance the vehicle at an outside source have all this information ready and available before sitting down and discussing the sale of the vehicle. Before you finish the sale, take a good look at the vehicle, if their is any damage at all, report it and make arrangements to have the dealership repair them, before you sign papers and take it home.

Written by Margie Parent - © 2002 Pagewise

Helpful hints for selling a used car

2007-03-01T07:50:00.000-08:00

This article on selling your used car gives tips on how to.

There are hundreds of people who buy used cars every day of the week. If you have a used car for sale the trick is getting them to buy yours. As an individual you can learn the tricks of the trade that many used car dealerships use everyday. The first thing is to prepare your car; you will get a buyer more quickly if the car is presentable. Next you will need to set a high and low price, this is the high asking price and lowest you will accept for payment. You will need to advertise the vehicle for sale, look in you local newspaper; there you will find classifieds for used vehicles. Check with the newspaper for pricing, some newspapers have special rates for individuals.

When preparing the car for sale, make sure the mechanical condition is street worthy. Also, be honest in your sales, if there is a major problem with the motor let the buyer know. You may have to take less for the vehicle, but it will save you less problems in the future. Making the car look presentable, will take a little elbow grease, give the car a good wash and wax job, vacuum the interior and spray some deodorant spray to make it smell good. A good-looking car will sell much faster than a pigpen.

To help you decide the price; there are used car price guides available. Look up the year, make and model of your car, along with any accessories. The book will give condition guides; this will give you the price if the car is in excellent, good, fair, or junk prices.

When a perspective buyer comes along, they will look at the car, and will want to test drive the car. Go with them, explain to them that your insurance insist that an insured driver be in the car at all times. This will prevent any damage to your car from reckless, irresponsible drivers.

When you have a buyer and it is time to accept payment, only take cash or a cashier’s check. If a personal check is given have the buyer go down with you and get the check cashed before the car is released to them, or any signatures are made on the title.

Written by Margie Parent - © 2002 Pagewise

Buying a second hand car

2007-03-01T07:41:00.000-08:00

Learn what to look out for when buying a second hand car - and avoid getting a lemon.

Buying a used car is always a risky venture. But there are things that you can do to lessen that risk. Here’s an essential 25 point check list that will help you to get it right first time.

Exterior

Look at the general condition of the outside of the car. Check inside for indications of heavy use. Specifically look for the following:

1) Body Rust: check the large body panels, the inner wings and the sills.

(2) Color Matching: Varying color shades on a panel indicate that the car has been in an accident.

(3) Dampers: bounce the car at each corner. If it bounces more than twice you will have problems with the dampers.

(4) Tyre Tread: Check for uneven wear

(5) Door Alignment: If doors do not align exactly with body panels this could indicate an accident.

(6) Lights: Check that lenses are not cracked.

(7) Mileage: If the mileage is much higher than an average of 10,000 miles for each year, this may indicate that the car has been used as a fleet vehicle.

(8) Driver’s Seat: A sagging driver’s seat along with worn foot pedals are indicative of a high mileage. If the odometer doesn’t indicate this, it has probably been wound back.

Checking Under the Car

If you are buying the car from a garage ask them to place the car on a lift. Otherwise, use a mat and torch.

(9) Check for oil leaks from the rear axle.

(10) Check all brake pipes for signs of rust, accident damage or fraying.

(11) Check the muffler for rust holes or loose fitting.

(12) Check for leaks from the oil sump and the clutch housing

(13) Make sure that all of the under body sealants are undamaged.

Under The Bonnet

Look for signs that the car has been recently serviced. The air filter should be clean and the fan belt free from cracks and is correctly tensioned.

(14) Check that the brake fluid level is up to the max level and is clean

(15) Check the electrolyte level in the battery. Look also for white corrosion at the terminals.

(16) Check the engine bay for rust.

(17) Check the level of the oil and it’s condition. If it feels gritty you may be in for problems.

(18) Check the air filter. It shouldn’t be clogged with dirt.

The Controls

(19) Check that the instruments are all properly lit.

(20) Check for signs of slack and excessive play in the steering wheel
(21) Check to see if the generator light goes out soon after the engine starts – it should.

(22) The oil pressure light should also go out soon after the engine starts.

(23) Check that the temperature gauge goes quickly to the warm zone. If it runs too cold or too hot you are in for problems.

(24) Get a friend to check that all the lights are working as you activate them.

(25) Apply the hand-brake. It should lock fully well before the lever reaches the end of it’s track.

So, how does your prospective vehicle check out? Is it a gem or a lemon? After following this 25 point check list you are in a much better position to find out.

Written by Thanapong S.

Money Saving Options: Car ownership pools

2007-02-28T07:04:00.001-08:00

As costs of cars, fuel, maintenance, and insurance skyrocket, some North American cities have car ownership pools. The benefits and how to get started.

Rising costs of vehicle purchase, maintenance and operating have made car leasing a popular trend. Still, the cost remains high, especially for occasional drivers who don't require an everyday car. An alternative may be to rent by the day or obtain a more reasonable weekend package rate. When the dust settles, however, the cost may still be in the steep $50-75.00 per day range.

Steep compared to what? Compared to car pool cost sharing, that's what! With a membership fee, usually between $200 and $500 but often refundable, a cost sharing member purchases the right to use a car whenever it is required. Some car share groups even have pickup trucks available for a member's spring yard cleaning or help to move the mother-in-law.

Normally, members also pay modest user fees, usually in the range of $1.50-$2.00 an hour and 40 cents a mile, depending on local gas prices. At that rate a two-hour trip to the mall could clock in at $10.00 or less.

It's not so much what members get with a car share deal as much as what they don't get. They don't get a monthly installment bill for a car that just sits in the driveway and depreciates most of the time. They don't get repair bills. They don't get the hassle of regular oil changes and tune-ups. They don't get an insurance bill or have to buy plates every year. They don't even get as much air pollution because they find they drive less than before.

Car shares aren't for everyone. The breakeven for members is about 12,000 kilometres (7500 miles) a year. Anyone who drives less than that does very well economically. For anyone who needs a car daily, a cost share probably wouldn't work. Yet, worth considering is using a car share to save the cost of a second car.

Car sharing has been popular in Europe for nearly fifteen years. In Switzerland, for example, car sharing groups have 30,000 members who share 1400 cars. In one Swedish city, 230 members share sixteen cars.

North Americans are not far behind the Europeans. Rising costs have spurred interest in recent years. Since 1998, 300 members in Portland, Oregon, have nineteen cars on the road; in Seattle, since late last year, 370 members have twelve cars; in Boston since June 2000, 250 members have fourteen cars. Car share groups are in the planning stages in at least another dozen American cities from Boulder to Kokomo to Honolulu.

Canadians, too, have adopted the car share format, beginning in the mid-Nineties. To the east, Quebec City car sharers number more than 750 and have forty-five cars at their disposal. In Montreal, 920 members also share forty-five cars. To the west, 550 members in Vancouver have twenty-nine cars, and in Victoria, seventy members have been motoring around very conveniently since 1997 with only four cars.

Car share groups take many forms. Some are cooperatives, others are private businesses, and a few are non-profit organizations. While the breakeven usage ratio of cars to members averages about one available car for every twenty members, initial capitalization investment and fixed operating costs indicate actual breakeven to be about 400 members.

Circumstances in every city are different. Initial costs can be reduced by buying out leases or purchasing vehicles from new members, by arranging long-term maintenance agreements with local garages, and by purchase of fleet insurance–often cheaper than conventional private owner insurance.

Fortunately, for anyone contemplating a car share membership or even starting up an organization, the kinks have already been worked out. There is no need to re-invent the wheel before getting on the road.

Written by Arthur Montague - © 2002 Pagewise

Car shopping guide: Test-driving

2007-02-28T07:04:00.000-08:00

How to measure your comfort levels before you buy an automobile. Advice on making a good investment, including how to approach features.

Do you really know what to look for when you buy a new car? Is your car the right one for you? Even if your car is beautiful on the outside, you're in for some headaches if you don't weight the interior, derivability, and power before you buy that car of your dreams. When you test-drive is the ideal time to check out these car functions.

Weighing Comfort Levels

When checking out a car for the first time, get into the front seat and actually ADJUST the seat and mirrors to your comfort level. Make sure you have enough room over your head. You should have at least 2 inches of headroom. Make sure your seat height allows for good road visibility and that your headrest is comfortable to your head, neck, and back. Consider the fact that you may use the headrest for long drives in the car! Also, check for legroom in the back and front seats. If you move forward or back, is there enough room for both you and your passengers? Can you reach the mirrors comfortably?

Weighing Drivability

On order to fully weight the drivability of the car, it is best to try and initiate a test-drive at night. This ensures that the headlights are bright enough. When driving the car, make sure you pay attention to the “telltale” signs that the car will run smoothly for you. Check for power and acceleration. Also, does the car you’re driving have the right transmission or gear ratios for you?

Make sure you check your field of vision while driving. Are there any blind spots? Can you see the rear adequately with the rear-view mirrors? Make sure that you are also comfortable with the level of noise or engine exhaust from the vehicle itself. These noises can often distract you!

Check on the fuel type needed for the car. If the car is a high-performance vehicle with multiple valves, chances are, the fuel will cost you more as well. Also, make sure to check and/or test the miles to gallon ratio. Large SUV’s may eat up gas without a high level of acceleration.

Weighing Interior Issues

When checking the interior, make sure that the overhead light is reachable from the driver’s seat. Make sure you are also able to read the gauges easily and are comfortable with the controls of the windshield wiper and gear shifters. You don’t want to switch gears while trying to wipe your windows, do you?

Weighing it All Together

Before you buy the car, ask to see the owner manual to learn about any other customizable features. Are there warmers in the seats? Hw comfortable will your friends or kids be in the car? So, are you comfortable and happy with your test-drive? Great! Now, you need to make sure that the car you buy is of the same quality. When you get the car, make sure you test drive it before you accept it! Don’t take any car deliveries at night unless you want to be surprised at the vehicle you got in the daylight.

Written by Melissa Brewer - © 2002 Pagewise

What is the best way to buy a car?

2007-02-26T07:42:00.000-08:00

What is the best way to buy a car? If you buy a used car and use this system, you will never have another car payment again and save thousands in interest.

In any financial decision, one principal must always be applied. That principal is delayed gratification. If you don't absolutely need whatever you are thinking about right now, then you can definitely wait for it. This applies with any item that you are planning on buying on credit. In this article, we will only be looking at automobiles.

First off, you must understand that the automobile industry is hoping that you will buy new. They make their greatest profit when you buy a new vehicle. They would absolutely love it if you would lease a new vehicle. That is why every car commercial you see on television is selling a lease. They have a HUGE profit margin on a lease.

Now, a vehicle is a need...correct? Absolutely. You have to be able to motivate. However, there is no rule that says that you have to have a new car...yet. The plan I am about to give you will allow you to be in the car that you want in a matter of a few short years with minimal interest paid and no need to ever have a car payment again.

1. Determine how much you can afford to spend per month. Let us assume you can afford $250.

2. You need to find a $3000 car that you are willing to drive. You can easily find one that will last and be dependable. You just have to, here is the key, delay your gratification.

3. Get a five-year loan on the $3000 car. No matter how much the payment is on the loan, pay the amount that you said you could afford every month. At $250 per month, you should have the car paid off in about 13 months with about $250 in interest paid on the loan.

4. You now own your car. Continue to drive it for the rest of that year, but keep paying the $250 per month to yourself. It doesn't matter if you put it under your pillow. Just keep putting it aside. You were planning on paying it to the finance company anyway, so you won't miss it.

5. At the end of that year, you will have a car that is worth about $2000 and will have $2750 saved. Sell the car, and buy a $4750 car. Since you paid cash for the car, you will be able to get a discount. That means your car will probably be worth at least $5500.

6. Drive that car for a year and continue to pay yourself the $250 per month. At the end of that year, you will have a car that is worth $5000 and $3000 in cash. Sell the car, and buy a car for $8000. With the discount, you should be able to get a $9000 car. Remember to continue to buy used, however. A new car loses alot in depreciation as soon as you drive it off of the lot.

7. Continue that process for the next year. You now have an $8500 car and $3000 in cash. Sell the car, and buy an $11,500 car. It will be worth around $12,500.

8. You are now in the fifth year of the process. At the end of the year, you will have a $12,000 car and $3000 in cash. Go buy a $15,000 car.

So, let us compare. Using a traditional purchase plan five years ago, you would have been able to buy an $11,000 car for $250 per month with 10% interest. You would have paid $4110 in interest. The car would now be worth approximately $5000. In order to be in a better vehicle than you started with, you will need to go get another loan and pay more interest.

Using our system, you paid less than $400 in interest on the initial loan. You now are able to pay cash on a $15,000 car. If you continue to buy used, you won't have to pay the depreciation. So, you can continue to pay yourself the $250 per month and move up in car regularly or save the $250 per month and stay in about the same level of car forever.

Isn't delayed gratification fun?

Written by Jason Russell - © 2002 Pagewise

Auto: sell your car

2007-02-26T07:18:00.000-08:00

Auto: sell your car using these tips. Learn how to get the most value when you sell your used auto!

Selling your car outright can sometimes get you more money than if you would trade it in on a newer car or truck at a car lot. Or, maybe you are not looking for another vehicle, you simply want to get rid of one. Whatever the case, you will need to know some things so that you cna get the most money out of the used vehicle you are selling or trading in.

There are different methods for advertising your vehicle. You can place a big for sale sign in your vehicle and park it in the front yardm an especially good idea if you live on a busy thoroughfare. You can place a classified ad in your local newspaper, post an ad on a local radio station, or post your ad on the Internet with one of the many sites available just for this purpose.

Before you place you ad, though, you must make sure that your vehicle is in the best condition it can possibly be in, and you have all of the necessary paperework you will need to close the deal. You will need a clear title to your vehicle showing that it has no loans on it, and that you are indeed the owner. If you kept service records on your vehicle, they should be handy so that any prospective owner can review them and find out what has been repaired or replaced. They can also see from your records that you had regular maintenance performed on the car or truck and they won't have to take your word for it. This builds confidence in the sell-buy transaction, when you can prove what you claim.

Now it's time to use some elbow grease to make your vehicle look presentable. You might need to do some minor touch-up on the paint. Thoroughly wash and wax the outside of the vehicle afterwards. Pay special attention to the chrome features, and wash the windows too. Remove any trash and vacuum the interior-the seats, the floorboards, and any other fabric-covered areas. If the interior is muddy or particularly dirty, you may have to shampoo it also. If the vehicle interior has any odors in it, such as cigarette smoke, it would be a wise idea to invest a few dollars into a spray odor remover. Don't forget to clean any trash out of the trunk, too, and then vacuum it thoroughly.

Change the oil or have it done if it hasn't been changed recently, as the prospective buyer, if they are knowledgable about vehicles, will pull the dipstick and inspect the oil. Dirty oil will give the prosepective buyer the impression hat the vehicle has not been taken care of properly, even if you have done so. (Unless you have the records to prove otherwise.)

Finally, check out the Kelley Blue Book or another reputable vehicle guide to find out the approximate value of your car or truck. Inspect some key features of your vehicle suchas the body, tires, windows, exhaust system, and battery. If the body has some rust, you will need to be ready to lower the price alittle to allow for that. This goes for the rest of the features also. If the tires need replaced, you can either replace them yourself and try to recoup the cost, or sell the vehicle as is with the tires that need replaced. Again, be prepared to negotiate a fair price for the vehicle since the new owner will have to bear the cost of new tires.

Now you are ready to place your ads and wait for those prospective buyers to call you on the phone, e-mail you, or drop by in person to take a look at your vehicle. But, relax, because you have taken the time to prepare your vehicle, and it shows!

Written by Thanapong S.

Car rental tips: How to find the best value

2007-02-26T06:41:00.000-08:00

With these car renting tips you'll be prepared for your next automobile rental. Protect yourself against extra charges from Rental Car Agencies.

Many people rent a car and just get in and drive off. This is the biggest mistake you can possibly make. You have to inspect the car for damages, for dents, scratches, and non-working features. There should be a form left on the dashboard to write down any damages that you see. If you don’t find one, ask for one. Check to see if any part of the interior is broken, damaged, or torn. Open the trunk and see if they included the spare tire and jack. Don’t forget to check if it has a full tank of gas since you have to return with a full tank. After you’ve made a note of all damages return the form to the attendant before driving off with the car. Always return the car with a full tank of gas if you don’t want to be charged an outrageous price for gasoline.

People who neglect to check for damages can find themselves in hot water when returning the car. They will incur charges for damages that they’re not responsible for. But since they never took the time to complete the form, there’s no legal way to fight these charges.

There are a few items that if damaged you can fight even if you didn’t note it on the form. These are damages that were unforeseeable before taking the car. For instance if the CD player doesn’t work. Or if you picked the car up on a clear day and two days later it rained and you realized that the wipers are not working properly.

Sometimes we’re in such a hurry that we have to take any car that is available at the time. If you reserved a mid-size car but had to take a compact [and this is something that most agencies won’t inform you of] you have the right to have a car delivered to you when you reach your destination. Regardless of whether it’s a hotel three miles from the car rental agency or 300 miles you can have the right to have a car delivered to your doorstep. This is the reason to rent only from worldwide agencies, because no matter where you travel to there will always be an agency to request this service from. But let’s say that you decided to stay with the compact car. If the agency never informed you of this service, you have a very good chance of getting an added discount.

When returning the car ask to speak to the manager, tell him of your dissatisfaction of not getting the car that you reserved. Point out some reasons. What reasons can you come up with? Perhaps you had to leave things behind because you didn’t have enough trunk space. Or couldn’t make purchases that you wanted to because of lack of space. On the other hand if you had to take a larger car, save your gas receipts and take them to the manager. Tell him approximately how much extra gasoline expense you had because they didn’t have the car that you requested. Then ask to be compensated, most managers will agree to compensate you for your troubles, they don’t want to lose your future business.

Remember to write down names of rude employees and any other employees present at the time. Having their names will be helpful if you have to speak to the manager. If you keep these tips in mind you’ll never again have to feel like they have the upper hand.

Written by Iris Berrios - © 2002 Pagewise

How to buy a new car

2007-02-26T06:26:00.000-08:00

Buying a new car can be one of the hardest things to do if you don't understand the dealer's tactics. I'll show you how to get a better deal.

Everyone dreads the day when you have to get that new car. If you want to make that day easier and save on your next car you have to be informed about the tactics that most car dealerships use. If you understand how the sales-reps work then you are sure to leave with a better deal.

This article will teach you how to walk away with that better deal and the feeling that you won.

Before you go to the dealership you need to find out the actual value of the vehicle you are trading in.

Most Market Guide books are just an estimate and don’t take the condition into consideration so their prices will not be accurate. You will need to take your car to 3 or 4 Used Car Lots and tell them you want to sell. Use the offers to compare what the dealership offers you for your car.

When you first get there and find the car that you are interested in you need to check the car for any scratches, bumps, ect. If there is nothing wrong with it take it for a test drive and see if it lives up to your expectations. If everything is still all right you need to go to the front desk and ask for the best price. If they ask you for an offer politely refuse and ask for the best offer once again.

You need to remember the sticker price of the vehicle that you are going to purchase. You should have checked for it earlier before you took your car out for a test drive. This will give you a position of power when negotiating with the sales-person. You should never tell the rep that you know the sticker price. Don’t try to get the vehicle at the actual price. It won’t happen. You should always be polite and listen to what the rep has to say. If you make it into an argument he will not give you a good deal. You should be able to get your new car at around $100 over the sticker price.

Never accept the first offer. This will not be their best price. Once the price is respectable accept it.

Now they will ask to appraise and test drive your car. This can be the hardest part of negotiation. You should obviously allow them to test drive you car. When they get back they will inform you of their offer, but they will not give you your keys back. This is one of their tricks.

They will keep your keys so you will hopefully jump at an price before they get to the best offer. This trick will work on a lot of people so always get your keys back. Keep the prices that the other lots offered you in mind. You should keep the offer that you take for your trade in within $1,000 of the average bid the other car lots gave you.

These tips can save you a lot of money and help you get the upper-hand in negotiations if you use them right.

How to buy a used car

2007-02-26T06:18:00.000-08:00

Tips on how to buy a used car and still get a good deal on without getting ripped off.

Purchasing a new car can be a great way to save money and it can also be a great way to get ripped off. Though many states have lemon laws where used cars are concerned, it is still possible for a dealer or private seller to skate through the confines of these laws and sell you a bad car with no consequences. Once you sign the deed that says ‘as is’ you are pretty much on your own unless your case falls under lemon law qualifications. Be fore armed with knowledge when you go to look at a used car and never buy one on impulse under the urgings of the seller that he has other people who are interested in it. This is a sales tactic and you shouldn’t allow yourself to be pressured when making a major purchase.

Before you look at a car, find out what its blue book value is. The Kelley Blue Book is a publication that lists the fair prices for used cars. This book is used by car dealers and there is an online version of the blue book that you can access to find out a car’s true fair value. Ask the seller of the vehicle if they mind if you have the car checked out by a mechanic before you make a decision. This isn’t always feasible but if you are purchasing from a private owner, you may be able to negotiate it. Things like tires, brakes, belts, etc. are inexpensive repairs that all cars need regularly, you should assume you will have to replace these items when buying a used car.

Test drive the car and listen for any unusual noises, if possible, bring someone with you who knows something about cars for additional reinforcement. Don’t buy a used car with high miles at any price, cars can last up to 200,000 miles or more, but a car with more than 150,000 is a waste of time and effort at any bargain price.

Written by Thanapong S.

Pretrip automobile maintenance check

2007-02-25T02:04:00.000-08:00

When taking a road trip, even for a couple of hours, always check under the hood of your car.

Start by seeing your vehicle is in tip top shape. My partner takes his car to his favorite mechanic for a quick engine tune-up. He has the mechanic check the fan belt, has the car greased, oiled and a new oil filter. The mechanic checks the battery and my partner makes sure the air pressure in each tire is at the proper pressure. He checks the spare tire, if the jack is operational and sees that his Triple A membership is up to date.

Make sure you have a clean windshield, don't travel blind. When on the road use your head lights and leave extra space between you and preceding vehicle. If you have to stop suddenly avoid skidding by tapping your brakes. Have enough fuel and money to take you to the next stop. Always try to keep the gas tank half full.

Prepare for car trouble. Obtain weather information and carry a survival kit. Your survival kit consists of a flash light, extra antifreeze and windshield washer, flares or reflective devices, a blanket and work gloves. Always have the proper lug wrench to match the wheel's lug nuts, an extra quart of oil, a bottle of brake fluid and a couple of cans of FIX A FLAT. A foot air pump, a Phillips and flathead screw driver- pliers, vise grips, knife, rags, electrical and gray tape are also must-haves. Another thing to carry as part of your survival kit is a piece of plastic in case you have to lie down next to the car or kneel down to change a flat tire.

Allow extra time for you trip. Leave a little early and take into account your rest and lunch stops.If you haul your boat make sure your transmission cooler is working properly and if stranded stay with the vehicle.

Written by Thanapong S.

Help choosing an auto mechanic

2007-02-25T01:59:00.000-08:00

Need help choosing an auto mechanic that you can feel comfortable with? Here are tips to get you started in th proper direction.

Choosing a good mechanic can be a task, but finding one that is trustworthy and honest is something all together different. Service on a vehicle is expensive anyway, but dependable, honest service from a garage is priceless. Mechanics are generally at a huge advantage when a woman needs a vehicle fixed. They can usually tell them what is wrong and add something else that also needs to be fixed. Following are some tips for women who do not know much about vehicles and are “in the hands” of the mechanic they choose. There are some ideas on how to test out the mechanic that you chose to see if they are what you are looking for.

It is a good idea to check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints for the mechanic you choose. This will ensure that you are with a company that is good with their customers. Another sign for a mechanic is availability. You can just about ash them if they do good work, by asking them when they can get you in. If they can see you within ½ hour the same day, they are probably not very good. The only downfall that this presents is that most people do not have an extra car on hand to wait for the better mechanic. When your car is out, you must look at all aspects of the service.

The first step is to take your vehicle to the mechanic for an estimate only. This is the most critical step and will determine the trust between you and the mechanic. Above all, the estimate should be written. This will ensure that if they go over the cost, they have to consult you first. Next, they should sit down and explain the estimate in detail with you. A great mechanic will physically show you what is wrong and give you alternatives or cheaper ways to fix the problem. You may not know what they are showing you, but this will make you feel more comfortable and trusting with them. If they are condescending it can be hard to respect them and even harder to trust them.

After you have decided on the garage and mechanic of your choice, it is important to be aware of the service they give you. Timely service is something to look for. If the mechanic says your vehicle will be done at a certain time, and it is, that is a great sign. If you end up waiting for the mechanic to finish, this can be a sign that they take on too many tasks at one time. Some times they may just have estimated wrong and it cannot be helped, but overall the service should be on time and prompt.

Also be aware of the quality of service. When you get have your vehicle back check to see if the seat was moved around or if the radio station was changed. Simple things like this show that they do not respect your vehicle. Check the odometer to see if it has drastically changed. Another thing to check is for grease on the seat. Good mechanics will cover the seat with plastic before they drive it.

Overall, you can never be too careful with choosing a mechanic. In today’s world it can be hard to find one that is honest and trustworthy. Using the tips above will help you choose the right mechanic for you. Establishing a trust with the mechanic is something that will help you in the long run. It is okay to be picky until you find the perfect mechanic for you and feel comfortable with them. Once you are comfortable with a mechanic, it will not be a traumatic experience every time something happens to your vehicle.

Written by Thanapong S.

Fuel efficient cars: how to improve your own

2007-02-24T09:07:00.000-08:00

Learn how to save gas and money with a more fuel efficient car!

In these days of high gas prices, everyone has to try and get the most mileage out of every gallon of gas that they buy! You can get more miles per gallon and save yourself some money by following the simple tips llisted in this article!

Tip #1
The first and most important tip is to purchase a fuel-efficient car. This will save you gas and money right off the proverbial bat. No matter what kind of vehicle you own, though,you can increase the gas mileage you are getting by following the rest of the tips.

Tip #2
Keep your car tuned-up properly. By keeping it tuned-up and running properly, you will save gas and money. A fouled spark plug will make your engine run rough and therefore waste gas.

Tip #3
Consult your mechanic about adding a fuel injector cleaner to your gas tank. There are several different brands on the market today, and he could recommend the best one. Cleaner injectors mean a better running car which equals better gas mileage.

Tip #4
Have your car's oil changed every three months or every three thousand miles, whichever comes first. Running clean oil in your car's engine will help it run better and help to increase the gas mileage.

Tip #5
Check the air pressure in all four tires frequently. Tires that are not properly inflated will result in lower mile-per-gallon ratings.

Tip #6
Have the engine belts checked regularly for wear or cracks. Worn belts can affect the performance of the engine and therefore affect your car's fuel consumption.

Tip #7
Have the air filter checked every oil change, and replaced as often as necessary. The air filter is another factor in an efficient-running engine.

Tip #8
When driving you car, avoid periods of unnecessary idling time as much as possible. You can't avoid stoplights or traffic jams, for example, but when you run errands, don't leave your car running while you go inside a shop or store,etc. Make a list of places you can visit in one trip instead of making several short trips to get your errands done.

Tip #9
Observe the speed limits at all times.Driving your car past 55 or 60 miles per hour takes additional fuel than if you stay within the posted speed limits.

Tip #10
When driving on the highway or freeway, especially while taking road trips, use the cruise control feature in your car. It will help your car maintain a constant speed and will help to reduce your car's fuel consumption.

Tip #11
When driving in the city, you can help the fuel efficiency of your car by avoiding unnecessary jack rabbit starts along with sudden braking. This jerky starting and stopping of your car wastes more fuel than youmay relaize. Drive by looking ahead and preparing to slow down or stop without having to jam on the brakes all the time.

Tip #12
Using the air conditioner in your car uses an increase in gas usage and cuts down on fuel efficiency. Try to avoid using it as much as possible.

Written by Thanapong S.

What to do during a car crash

2007-02-24T08:59:00.000-08:00

Car crashes happen every day! Read this article to find out what you should do if you're involved in a car crash!

With over two hundred million drivers on the road today, it's not surprising that a car crash occurs every ten seconds. But, you can help to protect yourself and your family if you know what to do should you be involved in a crash.

The first and most important thing to remember during a car crash is to remain calm. You can't be any help to yourself or anyone else if you're in a state of hysteria. Relax for a moment and take a deep breath to clear your head.

Then, the second step is to turn the ignition off in your vehicle, and, carefully check yourself for injuries. Check your passengers too, to make sure they're okay.

You and your passengers, if there are any, will need to exit your vehicle if you are able. If you can't open the door, you'll need to crawl out a back door, a hatchback, or maybe even out through the sunroof. If your vehicle is still on the road, you'll need to watch out for oncoming traffic.

Many motorists carry cell phones, and if you have one with you, your third step should be to call "911". You'll need to summon the police, ambulance, and other rescue services. Since there is no way to track the location of a cell phone, you'll need to tell the dispatcher the exact location of the crash. If you're not sure of the name of the road you're on, and then give him or her names of any cross roads that are nearby.

After he or she has collected a sufficient amount of information about the accident, so they can send Emergency personnel to the scene, the dispatcher will ask for your name, address, and home phone number too. Stay on the phone with the "911" office until they tell you that they have all the information they need.

Now that you have checked on your own passengers and helped them out of the vehicle, you should check on the other drivers and their passengers.

After that, the fifth step is to set up emergency flares on the road. The flares will need to be a distance away from the accident site. They will need to be located on both sides of the site. These will warn other motorists that they will need to slow down or stop up ahead.

As long as the other drivers involved in the crash are able to talk coherently, the sixth step is to get a pen and paper and exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, as well as the names of insurance companies. You should also write down their insurance policy number. You should also ask to see the other motorist's driver's license so you can write down their license number.

If the other driver is hostile, and refuses to exchange information, then you should remain calm and simply wait for the police to arrive. (Don't blame the other driver, and don't claim any responsibility for the crash! In fact, the less that you talk to the other driver, the better.) You can collect the necessary information later from the accident report the police will fill out. You'll need to get a copy of the accident report anyhow so you can file a claim with your insurance company.

If there are any witnesses to your car crash, you should also write down their names, addresses, and phone numbers.

Finally, no matter what, you must stay at the scene of the accident! There are laws against leaving the scene, and you don't want to get cited for that! Wait for the police to arrive and take care of the situation.

Written by K Sprang - © 2002 Pagewise

Tire buying tips: what to consider when purchasing tires

2007-02-24T08:39:00.000-08:00

Tire buying tips to help make a well informed decision for your car's specific needs.

Walking into a tire store can be, and often is to say the least confusing for those of us who don’t buy tires that often. For the most part, as long as there are four tires on the car, most people are satisfied.

But when taking a stronger interest in the type of tires that are mounted on a car, the whole area of “tires” opens up, and we find there’s more to this tire buying than just bringing the car in to a tire shop and having four new tires put on.

A tire is an important functional part of any vehicle. Outside of the engine and its various parts, without the tire, no car, no truck, or no bus will get from point A to point B or any other point for that matter.

Sometimes we can’t always based our decision to buy a tire based on the name of the tire if it is a well known brand, or because the price is in a higher bracket than other selections of tires. A little homework will help us make a wiser decision when purchasing a tire.

First off the U.S. Government rates tires according to safety and mileage and by learning what these specifications are will help us decide what is best for our needs. Treadware traction, and heat resistance are some of the factors that should be seriously considered when making a purchase. Tire dealers can and should provide this information to the discerning consumer.

Treadware gives the expected mileage. This is shown by numbers, i.e. 300, 400, 500, etc. The higher the number, the more the expected mileage.

Traction grades provides a basis on how well tires will stop on a wet surface. “A” Grade of course being the better tire, thereby stopping in a shorter distance than Grade “B. We can see here that by purchasing the better grade, if we live in a climate where rain is a factor, we are better off paying a bit more by buying the higher-grade tire.

Grading a tire by “Heat Resistance” is also an important consideration, especially for those who live in the warmer climates. Again, deciding on a better grade will in the long run prevent driving on a tire that may not be suitable or does not wear well in the hotter climates.

Tires are also rated by speed. Checking the ‘”owner’s manual” will provide that information, ensuring that the manufacturer’s suggested requirements are kept in mind when making the purchase.

Also, when having these tires mounted keep in mind that some stores may charge extra for balancing and mounting, thereby upping the total cost of the tire. This happened to me and the "great" sale did not turn out so great.

Other considerations: When driving on mostly paved roads and highways as opposed to off-road, a smooth road tire (aka street tire) should be a consideration.
When driving equally on paved road, highways, and off roads, then an all-terrain tire should be a consideration.

When driving mostly off-road, and occasionally on paved roads/highway, then an “off-road” tire should be considered.

Again, doing one’s homework, becoming well informed, knowing what to look for, what is required by a manufacturer in terms of their own specifications for buying tires will ensure that a correct decision is made when purchasing this product.

Written by MARIE ROY - © 2002 Pagewise

How to prepare your car for winter.

2007-02-24T08:13:00.000-08:00

This article is winterization maintenance instructional to prepare your car or truck for winter.

Winter is the most harsh season for any vehicle: the cold weather will effect any part that is weak. So before the winter months come around, it is best to check your vehicle and replace any parts that are weak. This will insure you are not left out in the cold.

The first and most basic step in preparing your vehicle for winter is radiator coolant. By adding antifreeze to your radiator this insure that the water the vehicle needs to cool down the motor will not freeze in the cold weather. If the water freezes, it is not able to cool down the motor, which could lead to a blown motor and also the radiator could crack because of the frozen water.

You also check the battery condition, make sure all the cables are not torn or corroded, if so change before the winter months. Also, the vehicle takes more power to start in winter, it is best to do a battery test to make sure it has enough charge for the winter. If it fails a re-charge test, invest the money into buying a new one.

Your windshield washer solvent should also be formulized for winter, it could also freeze and cause damage to the windshield wiper system. Also make sure all the hoses are not clogged and clean the washer nozzles out with a thin piece of wire. This will insure if you need to use your windshield washer solution in a hurry that it is available.

The electrical system of the vehicle should be checked. Check to make sure the distributor cap, points, condenser, ignition coil, spark plugs and spark plug cables are all in good shape. If any of these items are having difficulties in the summer, they will definitely go out in the winter. It is best to have them changed before winter.

Check all the hoses and belts, if any of these have signs of extensive wear such as cracks, it is best to replace them also.

Prepare for winter emergencies, if you live in a climate that there is heavy snowfall, keep extra blankets and water just in case of an emergency.

Written by Margie Parent - © 2002 Pagewise

How to check tire pressure

2007-02-22T06:45:00.000-08:00

How to check your tires for wear and tear to see if they need replacement, or infaltion/deflation.

Good driving habits and common sense will give you the most benefit and longevity from your tires. Sudden stops, fast starts, bad front end parts, bad shocks, bad air pressure, poor alignment and turning sharp corners (cornering) will decrease the lifespan of your tires. Driving your vehicle with incorrect tire pressure or overloading the vehicle with weight will increase the tread wear.

Visually inspect your tires frequently. Look for any bubbles, cracks, deep cuts or under inflation. If you see any cords or wires showing through the tires they need to be replaced. Look for uneven tread wear on your tires, this may be an indication that you need a front-end alignment or the tires are out of balance.

Proper tire inflation cannot be stressed enough. You can easily check this yourself with a tire pressure gauge. Tires normally lose some air in day-to-day use, and you may have to add a few pounds of air periodically and it is not usually a sign of a leaking tire, but of normal wear. Always check tire pressure when the tires are cold, tire pressure increases with temperature.

Check your driver’s manual for your car for the exact amount of pressure it suggests for your make and model of vehicle. The average pressure of most cars is 28 to 35 pounds of air pressure. It may vary from front to back tires. That is why it is so important to familiarize yourself with your car manual.

When you are ready to check your tires pull up to the air pump, go to the rear tire knowing before hand how much pressure is needed in your tires. There is usually a guide as to how much pressure is needed in the door jam of the car. Unscrew the valve that is located on the rim of your tire and use your pressure gauge (you can purchase at any auto part store for one to three dollars) to see how much air is currently in your tire. If your tire is over inflated use the open end of the pressure gauge to release as much air as needed. A measure stick will push up and out of the end of the gauge reading off what the pressure is so you can easily monitor how much air is or is not in your tires. If you need to add air use the air hose and firmly push down fitting the air hose over the valve until you hear the air going into the tire, not air escaping. There is a distinct sound as to the air escaping, it is a hissing noise, and air going in sounds much like a balloon being blown up. Once you have done this to all five (do not forget about the spare) tires making sure to replace the valve covers you are ready to go.

So that your tires wear normally it is recommended that you have your tires rotated at least every 7,500 miles or so. Make sure you have enough tread on your tires a good way to measure this is to use a penny. Inset the penny into the tread depth, when the top of Lincoln’s head is visible this means you should replace your tires.

Subtle signs there may be a problem that is easily corrected: When you let go of the wheel and your car and pulls to one side or the other, this could mean wheels are out of alignment, tire pressure is unequal, or the tires are not the same size all around. If your car vibrates at high speeds this could mean wheels are out of balance or they need an alignment or possible front-end work.

If you become unsure of yourself and would like someone to check after you have checked the tire pressure for the first time usually the local gas station attendant or local auto repair place will be more than happy to check and let you know if you have properly checked your tire pressure free of charge.

Written by Claudberta Meador - © 2002 Pagewise

Car fuel problems

2007-02-22T06:40:00.000-08:00

Car fuel problems; how to diagnose and fix them.
Driving down the road, you put the gas pedal to the floor, but the car dies. What went wrong? There are some things you can do right away to find out. Most of the time you can get back on the road right away.

The first thing to check is pretty obvious. Are you out of gas? Sounds simple enough. If you are out of gas then you just need to get more. Well, maybe not. Once you add gas you still may not get it started. Now what? In this case you will need to prime your carburetor. So, when you put
more gas in, save a little in the can. For those who have never even looked under the hood, here is how to find your carburetor. You will see a big round thing with a wing nut holding it on. Unscrew the wing nut (you should be able to do this with your hand), and take big round piece of metal that looks like a 33 album off. Down in there you can see the top of your carburetor. Pour a little, several drops, of gas in there and try to start it again. Do not put it all back together before you try to start it. You need to be fast and try as soon as you pour the gas in. It may take several attempts.

If you are not out of gas it may be your fuel filter. Your fuel filter may be in the carburetor or in the gas line. The gas line will be coming out of the side of your carburetor. If you cannot see the fuel filter somewhere along the line, it is in your carburetor where the gas line connects to it. The gas line will require a wrench to remove. Do not confuse it with the vacuum lines which just pull straight off. If you do pull a vacuum line off, do not worry, just push it back on. You will want to remove the fuel filter, and check to see if it is clogged. If you are very lucky you have a clear one and it is easy to see if it is dirty inside. Most of the time it is not clear. Try blowing through it to see if it is clogged. This can also help clean it out enough to get you back on the road for a while. You will want to replace the fuel filter as soon as possible, if it was clogged or if you ran out of gas. When you run out of gas it pulls all the dirt that has collected in the bottom of your fuel tank through the filter. If you take your car to the shop they will usually charge you sixty dollars or more to replace your fuel filter. You can find one at an auto parts store, and they are so common that hardware stores and gas stations often have them, too. It costs about three dollars if you do it yourself.
If neither of these things work, you probably have a bigger problem. It may be your fuel pump or a clogged fuel line, neither of which is a quick and easy roadside fix.

Tire safety tips

2007-02-22T06:33:00.000-08:00

Tire safety is a very important part of maintaining your car. Follow these simple guidelines and you will be able to prevent problems.

Tire safety is a very important part of maintaining your car. If you notice that your tires are worn or you feel a shake or wobble in your steering wheel do not ignore it. These seemingly minor problems could cause you to have a fatal car accident.

If your tires are worn, you should carefully inspect their wear pattern to determine if you have normal wear and just need to replace the tires, or if the wear is abnormal and requires a mechanics attention. If the tread wears evenly across the surface of the tire then it is normal wear. If edge or center appears more worn then you have reason to be concerned. Check for even tread wear by using a tread depth gauge, or by sticking a penny into the tread grooves. The tread depth gauge is the most accurate way to determine tread wear. If the tread is worn down to 1/16th of an inch, or if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, then the tire needs to be replaced. Some tires contain a built in tread wear indicator. These will appear as smooth bars that only show when the tread is 1/16th or less.

Front and rear tires wear at different rates depending if your car is a front or rear wheel drive. Whichever end is powering the vehicle will wear at a faster pace. This is considered normal as well. Another consideration for deciding if wear is normal is the habits of the driver. If someone tends to take corners at high rates of speed, this will cause the edge of the tire to wear down more rapidly than the centers. If you rotate your tires every 8,000 miles this should help to even out the wear pattern and make it easier to determine if there is a mechanical problem.

Abnormal tire wear can be a result of a suspension problem, the car may be out of alignment, a faulty tire or because your tires were not properly inflated. The best way to identify abnormal tire wear is when the edge of the tire is extremely worn, but the rest of the tire shows little or no wear. This means that the tire was leaning to one side or the other when being driven. This can be very serious as it can be caused by a suspension that is not aligned, a bent strut, or a multitude of other internal damage. Many times this is caused by damaged caused in an accident that was not properly identified and repaired. A mechanic should thoroughly inspect the vehicle to determine what parts need to be replaced to fix the problem.

If you run your hand over your tire and it feels smooth one direction and rough the other, your tires are “toeing” in when you drive. This is also a serious problem. The most common causes are that the car is out of alignment, bent steering linkage or arms or worn tie rod ends or idler arms. This is also a case where a mechanic should be called in to identify the problem.

If the center of the tire is worn more than the rest of the tire, check your tire inflation. Generally this type of wear is caused by over-inflation. Conversely, if the edges of the tires are more worn, your tire may be under-inflated. Check your owner’s manual to find out what the recommended inflation is for your particular vehicle.

Driving on tires that are worn greatly increases your chance of getting a flat tire or a blowout and is especially dangerous when the roads are wet. If you feel a wobble in the steering wheel or a shimmy in the rear of the vehicle with no evident tire wear, the steel radial belt may be separating. This can cause a blowout and should be checked by a mechanic.

You should inspect your tires monthly in good light. This will include feeling the surface of the tire and testing the tread depth. Make sure that the tires are rotated every 8,000 miles. Following these simple steps should allow you to get the best performance from your vehicle and prevent unexpected problems from endangering yourself or others.

Written by Cheryl Carroll - © 2002 Pagewise

How to save on gasoline

2007-02-18T20:11:00.000-08:00

How to save on gasoline

How to save money on the gasoline you buy for your car right now.

You can save money on the gasoline you buy and use in your automobile. Here are the three fundamental ways you can do it.

You can simply not use gasoline.

If you’ve gotten used to the idea that certain things must be done with a car, you’re probably not alone. Here are some ways around driving altogether. Try getting things done without going anywhere. If you are going shopping, try shopping online instead. If you have a computer connected to the Internet, you have access to many goods and services without leaving home. Many places online offer free goods as promotion and include free postage. Many services on the Internet are free as well, offered to generate traffic to a site. Your cost is obviously only your time with no cost for gasoline or any expense on your car at all. Goods you do have to pay for online often come at a discount and with free shipping. If there is a shipping cost, it is usually cheaper than the time you would have spent driving out to get it yourself and you still have no auto expense involved, no gasoline.

If you are travelling to get to a pastime or social event, bring your leisure to you instead. Invite the neighbors over for games, TV, videos, music, DVDs or dinner. There are so many reasons it is wiser and healthier to stay in in addition to saving on gas. The long-term savings this wisdom provides will pay for any gas you do use many times over. You save by preparing your own food and entertainment, too.

Travel by other means. Walk, run or bicycle your way to where you need to go. The exercise will do you well.

You can use less gasoline.

Car pooling, driving to one place to get several things like to a department store, getting goods that last longer and going for them less often, the possibilities are endless. As a good training regimen for driving less, try this. Imagine you live in the old west. There are no cars and you must do without. What could you or would you do in that setting to get by? Now make it a rule of thumb: you have no car, just like in the old west, until the painful twinge of really brings you back to present day and you must use your car to get somewhere, to get something done. This should help immensely.

You can use gasoline more wisely, too.

Use maps to assess the shortest distance. Maps online are free. Drive at an even speed, within the speed limit. Even speeds save gas and, remember, speeding tickets cost money and time. Take good care of your car and it will use gasoline more efficiently. Use top quality engine cleaning additives or try some hi grade gasoline once every few months. Keep the gas tank at least half full all the time; this makes for greater fuel efficiency. Try coasting on downgrades. If you’ll be stuck in traffic a while, pull off and park till traffic clears. Your gas isn’t getting you anywhere anyway and you bought it to do just that. Watch for specific days when gas prices are at a low during the week. Sunday is often a good day to buy gas; avoid filling up during busy social hours like Friday or Saturday night.

Written by David Geer - © 2002 Pagewise