February 18th, 2010 by Hal Moses
Many people struggle to decide what kind of car to buy. It can be difficult to sort through all of the vehicle options to arrive at the car that best suits you. Here are some important factors to consider that will help you make the right decision when purchasing a car.
First of all, decide what you intend to use the vehicle for. Don’t buy a 4WD SUV because you take two camping trips a year. If you’re using the car everyday for commuting, you are going to want to purchase a car that is easy to maneuver with good fuel-efficiency.
Next, consider the looks of the vehicle. You need to find a vehicle that you can stand to look at every day without getting sick of it. If you end up with a car that makes you shudder when you look at it, you will never enjoy it.
Finally, fuel-efficiency, although not as big of a deal three years ago, is now a major factor in car buying. Now there are options of what kind of fuel you want to burn. For example, some options are E10, E20, compressed natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, petrol, diesel, and B5. All of these fuels have their benefits, so decide which will suit you the best.
The best way to get the car that is going to fit you is to do your research on various vehicle models. Also, when doing this consider the added costs of an auto warranty, vehicle maintenance, and auto loans.
February 18th, 2010 by Hal Moses
Upon arrival of an accident scene, firefighters may not realize the high-voltage electrical system in a Toyota hybrid is on because of the silence of the electric motor.
According to Toyota regional service training specialist John Durso, people wouldn’t realize that a car is a hybrid unless they were told. Many people would just assume that the vehicle was stopped.
For firefighters or a road service crew who are responding to an accident involving a gas-electric hybrid, high voltage is a complication. This poses a risk of injuries or even death to emergency workers.
Because more and more electric-gas hybrids are being sold, firefighters are trying to learn the emergency response techniques that will keep them safe dealing with this new technology. Classes at the Connecticut Fire Academy give regular classes on how firefighters can recognize hybrid car logos and disable their high-powered battery systems safely.
Consumers benefit from electric-gas hybrids because they save big at the gas pump. However, in case of an accident or breakdown, motorists should allow firefighters or emergency roadside assistance crews to deal with their vehicle electrics, which can be dangerous unless you are properly trained. Motorists should also purchase an auto warranty in case of unforeseen repairs.
February 17th, 2010 by Hal Moses
Crossovers are becoming more and more popular with consumers. These are essentially Sport-utility vehicles that are put on car platforms. Crossovers give you the practicality of the minivan, with some of the capabilities of an SUV, all with a car’s efficiency. Consumers love their versatility, and there are many promising models to choose from.
The BMW X6 looks like a fastback sedan and satisfies the consumers who aren’t crazy about crossovers. It is shaped more like a car than an SUV, and is intended for use on the road, not off.
Ford is going to make a replacement for the Explorer, which is based on the concept of the Explorer America. It is going to be a crossover, but won’t be on a truck design like the current Ford Explorer.
Toyota has put out the Venza with great success. This vehicle is essentially a Camry wagon.
Mercedes-Benz has made a crossover effort with the GLK. This isn’t a small vehicle, although it is much smaller than the ML Class. However, this isn’t the best styling by Mercedes.
The time will probably come when motorists revolt against crossovers, just like they have done with station wagons and minivans. But, for now, crossovers are in high demand. However, like with any vehicle, make sure to purchase an auto warranty to protect you from costly repairs down the road.
February 17th, 2010 by Hal Moses
It is essential for consumers to do their homework before trying to purchase a new vehicle. To avoid unnecessary costs, follow these three important tips.
First of all, you need to shop around to find the best dealership. To do this, use the Internet and read blogs that people have written about specific dealerships. You will find a wealth of information just by doing web searches. Many times, you will come across complaints or favorable revues about how a dealership operates. Also, it is a good idea to contact three dealerships in your area to determine which one responds quickly. This will give you an indication of good service.
Next, dealers will try to talk you into financing through them, but don’t do it. Financing at dealerships typically isn’t the best deal you can find. Save your money by finding financing elsewhere and use your extra money for a much needed auto warranty.
Also, don’t fall for buying an alarm system through the dealer. Carmakers already install wiring in vehicles, yet they then sell alarm systems for approximately $1,200 separately. They will tack this cost onto the price of the new car purchase.
Lastly, sell your current car yourself to save money. Chances are you aren’t going to get as much money for it through the dealership.
Follow these tips to save big when it comes time to purchase a car. Also, purchase new car warranties to protect your wallet down the road.
February 17th, 2010 by Hal Moses
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 years. So, is it possible to wiggle out of a speeding ticket? Here are a couple of things to try.
First of all, if you get pulled over for speeding, stay in your vehicle. You should never get out. When the policeman approaches your window, try to look remorseful. Make apologies to the officer and be polite. Be nice, and ask for a warning. Don’t try to answer questions, such as: “Do you know why I pulled you over?â€Â Tell the officer you aren’t sure.
Don’t pay the speeding ticket by mail because it means you are admitting you’re guilty. In the U.S. you are considered innocent until proven guilty, so show up at court. Often, the police officer will make mistakes leading to the dismissal of your ticket. For instance, the officer might not go to court. Many times you will get your ticket changed to a lesser charge by showing up at court. For example, they might change it to a parking ticket from a speeding ticket. This is beneficial because it won’t increase your insurance and will give you fewer points on your license.
Many motorists assume that if they are given a speeding ticket that they should just pay it through the mail. However, it is a much better idea to make an effort to get out of it so you don’t have to pay an increased insurance premium. After all, we factor in costs such as an auto warranty and maintenance costs, but don’t consider speeding tickets and raised insurance.
February 16th, 2010 by Hal Moses
If you’re considering buying a new vehicle you need to think about safety features. Things such as crash test results, electronic stability control, and rollover resistance are all things that are important in keeping you safe in your vehicle.
In order to give vehicles a safety rating, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety performs side impact and frontal crashes on cars. Considering these results is important when it comes time to buy a new car.
Vehicles that are taller, such as SUVs and pickup trucks have a greater tendency to rollover since they have a high center of gravity. You can find out a car’s inclination to rollover by looking at NHTSA five star ratings.
Electronic stability control is a safety feature that is extremely beneficial and highly recommended. This feature allows you to maintain control of your car when you’re cornering. You can avoid skidding and sliding with electronic stability control because brakes are automatically applied to the wheels that could use it.
Motorists are more concerned about safety than ever before. Also, drivers are trying to protect their wallets by purchasing an auto warranty and buying fuel-efficient vehicles.
February 16th, 2010 by Hal Moses
Unfortunately, mistakes are a common occurrence when you’re in a place that is unfamiliar. According to a recent survey, people who drive RV’s admit to making expensive slip-ups. Approximately 1,000 RV motorists participated in the survey, and revealed some mishaps that are interesting to say the least.
The following were the most common mistakes:Â running out of gas, connecting taillights incorrectly, backing up and hitting something, not being able to accurately judge clearance, and pulling out of a parking spot with the steps still out.
According to the survey, approximately 50% of RV motorists travel for at least a month out of the year, and around 40% log 500 miles in their trip.
Although you can usually find blunders humorous, they can cost you big bucks in repairs and damages. This is why it is necessary to have good insurance and an auto warranty for your RV. After all, you need to be able to get back on the road as quickly as possible after a mishap.
February 13th, 2010 by Hal Moses
It’s important to realize that in today’s cars the main source of power is still the battery. The battery is not just used to start the engine; it is also used to supply electrical energy that maintains the memory of the numerous computers onboard. Batteries and cable connections that are poorly maintained fail to supply the voltage needed for innovative electronic devices. This can cause a vehicle to perform erratically. Maintaining your battery and purchasing an auto warranty can save you from breakdowns. Here are a few simple do’s and don’ts that can help you maintain your car battery.
First, it is important to check cables to make sure they are tight and free of corrosion. Make sure that terminals are lubricated with petroleum jelly to keep cables clean longer. Also, the battery should be secured firmly to the mounting bracket. If it’s not, it can result in short circuits. Finally, make sure to maintain fluids. If fluid is low, distilled water should be added. If there isn’t fluid the battery needs to be replaced.
There are some important things that you shouldn’t do concerning your battery. Don’t charge your battery if it’s frozen because there is a possibility it could explode. Instead, you must replace the battery. Never charge a battery that is dead with an alternator. The alternator may be damaged in this case. Also, you shouldn’t disconnect battery cables if your car is running.
Make sure to maintain your battery so it can perform at its peak. These simple tips can help your battery last longer. Of course, you never know when your car will fail, so make sure to purchase an auto warranty that will protect you in the event of a breakdown.
February 13th, 2010 by Hal Moses
It is very important to maintain a correct tire pressure for the safety of your vehicle, especially when cold weather can cause the air pressure in tires to decrease.
It is estimated that 650 people are killed and 32,000 are injured as a result of car crashes related to problems with tires. However, a recent survey revealed that 84 percent of motorists don’t check the pressure of their tires.
Another issue is that poorly maintained tires can be dangerous, and even leave you on the side of the road. Although you can always call for emergency roadside assistance, there are a few safety tips that drivers should keep in mind to avoid this:
Make sure you don’t overload your tires because overheating can occur. The result of this could be a blowout or a car accident. Your owner’s manual will give you proper loading instructions.
Tires that are under inflated also pose a risk. This occurs naturally and cold weather accelerates the process. In fact, frigid temperatures can cause tires to lose up to two pounds of air in one month. Under inflated tires are actually resistant to rolling. It can feel like you are driving with the parking brake on.
Finally, don’t over inflate tires because it can cause the tread to wear in the center.
Checking your tire pressure regularly can save you from many problems with your vehicle. Of course, you never know when you might get a flat, so just in case, make sure you have a road service program that can assist you in case of an emergency. In addition, make sure you have a good auto warranty to protect yourself from other car repair expenses.
February 13th, 2010 by Hal Moses
A diesel engine used to bring about a wince from people who associated diesels with engine noise, a not so pleasant smell, and blue smoke coming out of the tailpipe. However, things are changing. Diesel engines will soon elicit a positive response.
The new generation of diesels is considered clean. They use a very low sulfur diesel fuel that was made available in the United States in 2006. It is predicted by experts that diesel sales are going to increase approximately 300% within 10 years. One of the reasons for this is that diesel engines have around 20%-40% better fuel-efficiency than engines powered by gasoline.
The Clean Diesel Fuel Alliance claims that using ultra low sulfur fuel in these new and improved diesel engines will cause air quality to improve greatly. The yearly reductions in emissions will be the same as taking away the pollution from over 90% of the buses and trucks today. This is when the fleet of heavy-duty vehicles has been replaced by 2030.
It may take time to change people’s ideas about diesel engines, but people will begin to realize the benefits. Not only will they make our air cleaner, they will save people at the gas pump. However, as with any car, it is necessary to buy an auto warranty so you are covered in case of failure.