September 4th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Almost every vehicle that has front wheel-drive uses car struts on the front. They aren’t just shock absorbers. They integrate many different suspension parts into one assembly. Included are the spring seats, coil spring, shock absorbers, steering knuckle, and strut bearing.
The shock absorber is the part of the strut that is commonly serviced the most.
The strut has many different purposes that it serves. Because of the spring, the strut can support the vehicle’s weight while it’s traveling and allows for adaptations of road irregularities. The shock absorber that is internal will dampen the spring’s movement while it is compressing and rebounding.
The function of the strut housing is structural. It connects the bearing in the upper strut to the ball joint down below. This allows the whole assembly to pivot as someone turns the steeling wheel.
It is a good idea to have your vehicle’s suspension system checked by a service technician that is qualified. The struts in a car should be checked once a year, along with the alignment of wheels. You never know when car parts will wear out, so an auto warranty, as well as regular maintenance is a necessary part of your routine.
September 4th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Families consider the safety of their children a top priority. Unfortunately, car accidents are responsible for more deaths among 3-14 year olds than any other cause. Parents need to take essential steps to make sure that their children remain safe on the road. That means buying an auto warranty to ensure that repairs are up-to-date, and making sure that car seats are installed and used correctly.
More than 1,500 children under the age of 14 were killed in 2003, and around 220,000 were injured as the result of a car accident. Just using a child safety seat correctly can reduce these incidents drastically. In fact, casualties are reduced by around 70%. Alarmingly, approximately 75% of child seats are installed incorrectly. Unfortunately, about half of children killed in car crashes aren’t even restrained at all.
GM has a program designed to combat this problem called Safe Kids Buckle Up. This program informs parents about the importance of proper car seat use. This program has been running for over 10 years, has had 40,000 child seat checks around the country, and has inspected over 900,000 car seats.
September 3rd, 2009 by Hal Moses
Credit is a key factor when an auto shopper is trying to figure out how much they will pay for a car. However, according to experts, people should look at various dealers to compare special financing deals. This is as important as shopping around for a car type.
It is important to request a copy of your credit report and score through a credit agency. This will give you a better idea of what you will be dealing with when you talk about financing.
There are web-based tools that you can look to for help. For example, AutoTrader.com is a website for classifieds that actually has a credit center for people looking to buy a car with bad credit. And while other websites of a similar nature require the consumer to disclose personal and confidential information, the credit center only asks general questions to give the shopper privacy.
After you fill out the questionnaire, you will get a credit level that is estimated excellent, good or fair. Next, you can do a search among car dealers in your area that can help you with your specific financing needs.
The key is to be prepared when you walk into the dealership. Websites are a great way to arm you with knowledge. You can learn all about car prices, credit scores, and prices on an auto warranty. You want to do your homework so that you can get the best deal you can on the car itself, financing and new car warranties.
September 3rd, 2009 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.
September 2nd, 2009 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.
August 29th, 2009 by Hal Moses
If you are thinking of buying a new car, don’t just rely on professional expertise; make yourself a professional expert as well. This includes taking certain measures such as doing your homework and researching an auto warranty. You can be empowered by arming yourself with the following information about purchasing a used vehicle.
Examine the pedals to check for wear. Rarely do people update the pedals, so this is a good indication of the cars true history.
Next, take a look at the steering wheel. While the engine is turned off, joggle the wheel to see how much movement there is. There shouldn’t be more than one inch of play. If there is, a new steering gearbox may be needed.
Never buy a car that has frame-damage. You can tell this by looking at the core support of the radiator. This connects to the fenders in the front of the vehicle. It shouldn’t be welded on each side, but bolted.
Finally, check the paint job on the vehicle. Look for dents, scratches and rust spots. Also, examine the car for a slight waviness, which is an indication of a paint job.
Most importantly, check the history of the vehicle you are looking to buy. You can do this at autocheck.com.
No matter how much knowledge you have, you never really know what car you are buying. This is why it is important to buy used car warranties to protect your investment. You don’t want to pay unnecessary repair costs down the road.
August 29th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Why buy a sports car? Sports cars are not made to be practical, they are made to be fun. They are available in various models, such as two-seat roadsters and hatchbacks. Many models have relatively small cargo space, while others offer ample rear cargo room. Here are some things to consider when deciding which car model to purchase.
Even car models that fall in the same categories can vary greatly in fuel-efficiency. Make sure to do comparisons to see which models will save you money at the gas pump.
A lot of sports cars have small doors and limited head room that make getting in and out difficult. If you’re looking for a little more ease, you might want to look for a four-door hatchback or sedan. They often have easier access.
A sports car can have from two to five seats; depending on what model you look at. Even cars with five seats often have a middle rear seat that is too tight for adults. Make sure to try out the seats for comfort. Also, consider a three-point seat belt instead of a lap belt for a seat in the center rear.
A sports car is a great choice for motorists who want an exciting ride, and aren’t concerned about cargo space. However, it is always important to purchase an auto warranty to protect your wallet in case of unforeseen repairs down the road.
August 29th, 2009 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.
August 29th, 2009 by Hal Moses
You might find that your car has become a mess from kids, pets, friends, etc. But how are you supposed to keep it clean with kids spitting up and people having four-course meals in your backseat? Let’s face it; it can be hard. However, here are some tips to help you get started.
You might want to insist that whatever people bring in the car they have to take it out. This means that kids should be responsible for the cups, stuffed animals, books, etc. Also, you could limit them to only bringing one item each car ride.
Keep a trash bag from the kitchen in your vehicle. This comes in handy for trash, or for dirty wet clothes. You can have your oldest child be in charge of the trash bag.
For toddlers, purchase spill proof snack bowls and cups. You can buy a “snack trapâ€, which keeps Cheerios from spilling all over your floor.
Keep toothpaste in your glove compartment. This can save you from a stain on your upholstery. Just rub gently on lipstick or ketchup stains to remove stains.
Purchase some rubber mats to go on top of your carpet. If you don’t want to spend the extra money you can even turn your carpet mats upside down to reveal the rubber side.
It’s never easy to keep your car clean when you have a busy lifestyle, however, these tips will help. Don’t just purchase an auto warranty to maintain your car, put a little bit of work into cleaning the interior.
August 29th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Mercedes-Benz now has a new line of clean-diesel vehicles called Bluetec, much like the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. All of these qualify for the alternative-powertrain tax credit by the IRS. Previously, only hybrid cars qualified to receive the credit, but the advancements in clean-diesel technology have allowed these German carmakers to get this tax break for their new diesel lines.
The tax credits only apply to the first 60,000 units that are sold. Also, they will vary depending on the fuel-efficiency of the car. For example, the Mercedes Benz ML320 Bluetec will qualify for a rebate of $900, but if you make a step up to the GL320 and you will get a credit of $1,800.
Will these tax credits make more people consider purchasing a diesel car the next time they go car shopping?
In the past, motorists protected their wallets by purchasing an auto warranty, buying inexpensive vehicles, and keeping up with maintenance. Now, receiving tax credits for clean-diesel vehicles give consumers another way of conserving on car related expenses.