Archive for July, 2009

According to recent tests, pick-up trucks may not be as safe as originally thought.  For example, the Nissan Navara only received one star out of five for adult safety.  The Navara has a risk of injury that could be life threatening.  Also, the vehicle only got three stars for child protection, and two for pedestrian […]

In today’s world, the divide between new and used cars are less distinct because of certified pre-owned programs that manufacturers support.  Now, consumers can purchase luxury vehicles that appear to be brand new. Mercedes Benz was the first auto manufacturer to offer a certification program that was comprehensive in 1989.  Lexus then began a certified […]

Several small vehicles have had cult status, the French Deux Chevaux, the Volkswagen Beetle, and the original Mini. All of these cars were popular in their day.  However, they also had something else; an indefinable quality that gave them a cult following. Today, there are new vehicles with a retro-style in the American market.  The […]

As the economy declines, more motorists are trying to save money by abandoning their car insurance. According to the Insurance Research Council, the uninsured rate and the unemployment rate are directly correlated.  When unemployment increases 1%, uninsured drivers increase a half-percent.  Unemployment is up a great deal since last year. In a study that is […]

What benefits come with purchasing a sedan?  Sedans will give you a balance of performance, handling, fuel-efficiency, safety and easy access.  Also, they handle well in the majority of driving situations.  Unless you are someone who needs to store a lot of cargo, they are a great option. There are many different choices when looking […]

According to The American Consumer Satisfaction Index, the results from its Q2 aren’t good for domestic auto manufacturers.  The people at ASCI claim that customer satisfaction is higher than ever for the whole industry, however there aren’t any American automakers that made the top four.  And the bottom three on the list are made in […]

When gas prices are on the rise, drivers trade in their big gas-guzzlers for fuel-efficient cars.  Yet, while that makes sense, if you switch too soon you might be looking at more overall car costs than you’ll save on gas.  According to Consumer Reports, downsizing is beneficial in the long run if you time it […]

The decision to buy or lease can be a difficult one.  Car shoppers should consider more than just their budget.  Typically, leasing tends to be cheaper, but it also leaves drivers with no equity after the contract is up.  There are some important factors to keep in mind when making this important decision. First, you […]

Brake pad vibrations that result in a high-pitched noise are the cause of brake squeal.  When pads don’t have proper insulation from the caliper, vibration occurs.  The factory will equip brake pads with insulator shims, clips, and even a silicone backing that allows the pad to stay glued to the caliper.  This helps to prevent […]

There are millions of traffic tickets issued out every year in the U.S., which often cost over $100.  This is a billion dollar business in our country.  Paying the ticket through the mail is essentially admitting that you’re guilty.  Also, you will have the ticket on your record at the DMV for up to three […]