Most people realize that hypermiling is not the safest practice; in fact it leads to car accidents. However, many people still do it.  Well now, AAA is weighing in with their view on the subject.

AAA has released a very strong warning saying that practices to save gas, in which illegal driving techniques are used, are dangerous, and therefore shouldn’t be used.  They are referring to practices like drafting off of other cars by tailgating, rolling stops, and turning off the car while driving.

Other gas saving practices toe the line of acceptability.  For example, motorists who have manual transmissions sometimes cruise in neutral to conserve fuel.  This practice is fairly common, yet safety advocates express concerns about motorists not having complete control of their cars.  Also controversial is the practice of utilizing neutral with automatic transmissions, however some drivers who do this say that they can do it safely.  AAA also doesn’t bring up the fact that there are numerous local laws having to do with improper driving, like not keeping your vehicle in gear.

Although motorists are tempted to do anything possible to save money on gas, including skimping on an auto warranty, people need to realize the danger involved in illegal driving techniques.  Unfortunately, hypermiling has been known to lead to car accidents, which is why it is important to have roadside assistance. In addition, drivers should have good used car warranties to avoid unnecessary repair costs, should they arise.

Terms like geometric morphometrics and pareidolia aren’t generally important to people designing or buying cars, however they were significant in a recent study that found that people see faces when looking at vehicles, and typically they prefer ones that look powerful.

Pareidolia is an occurrence in which people actually see faces in various things from clouds to inkblots to cars.  A recent study was based on this concept and used geometric morphometrics to let participants rank vehicles on how they looked, using traits that are human like disgusted, sad or extroverted.

The results of the study confirmed that pretty much all people like cars that are powerful looking, like the BMW 5 Series.  Also, people tend to shy away from designs that are feeble-looking, like the Toyota Prius because they worry that they won’t be as sturdy and will require a good auto warranty.

Who knows if this research will determine the future designs of cars, but it might mean that we will see more big-mouthed grilles on the roads.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently did a study of 20 small cars in real-world, low-speed simulated collisions that motorists encounter all over the country in parking lots.  Their findings were that some of the most inexpensive cars you can purchase would cost you a lot of money to repair, even with a mild tap at 6 mph.

In order to replicate the full bumper from another vehicle the organization used a barrier.  By doing this they were able to assess rear and full frontal collisions, and also rear corner and frontal collisions at 6 mph and 3 mph.

Coming out the best was the Ford Focus.  This car was the least expensive car to fix, at $3,031 in damages after being put through the four tests.  The worst performer overall was the VW Rabbit, which totaled $9,511 in damage.

These tests show that small cars have gotten very complex over the years, and that simple parts like headlights have become expensive to replace and repair.  This is why it is essential for drivers to have an auto warranty to cover unnecessary repair expenses.

A recall has been issued by Kia of 6,680 of the Rondo EX and LX minivans from the model years 2008 and 2009.  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there may be a defective fuel pump for the four-cylinder 2.4-liter engine, which may not be able to get enough fuel effectively to the engine.

This could result in engine hesitation or failure of the engine starting correctly, which might endanger motorists if the problem gets progressively worse.  If the problem occurs, the check engine light coming on may alert drivers.

If you have a 2008 or 2009 Kia Rondo, Kia will replace your fuel pump free of charge.  Vehicle owners can also call Kia at 1-800-333-4542.  Taking care of the problem right away may save you trouble in the future.

Unfortunately, you never know when your car will fail, which is why an auto warranty is a must. However, listening for recall alerts can also save you from unnecessary car problems.

It is apparent that Ford is looking to give its buyers an assist, at least the consumers purchasing a 2010 Lincoln MKS or MKT.  In mid-year 2009, these vehicles are going to come equipped with the Active Park Assist system, which literally will parallel park the car automatically.  Ford’s MKT is a brand new crossover that is going to make its debut next month at the Detroit auto show.

Ford’s system is very similar to the one that is found on the Lexus LS 460.  However, instead of using cameras, this system uses a sensing system that is ultrasonic-based.

Ford says there are a few advantages over the technology that Lexus is using.  First of all, drivers can use Ford’s system if they are parking in a downhill situation, and Ford says its system has improved reliability and speed while parking.

This technology could prove to be very beneficial to drivers; however, drivers should protect themselves with a good auto warranty.  After all, you never know when you will find yourself needing repairs on new technology.

In future car accidents a circuit could be as crucial to survival as a seat belt.  Congress made seat belts mandatory in the 1960’s, which was revolutionary in car safety.  Since then, seat belts have greatly reduced deaths.  Now, there is an additional safety revolution in the midst.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has employed a new standard.  This makes electronic stability control equipment a mandatory component in all cars.  The adoption of ESC will save approximately 10,000 lives every year.

Most luxury vehicles already come with ESC.  Other models offer it as an option.  This is just one of the new safety advancements designed with the purpose of preventing auto accidents, not just protecting passengers.  The majority of these new features have a microchip base.  Many are still being perfected. So beware, you never know when new technology will fail.  However, new car warranties will save you from unnecessary expenses.

Many motorists are finding it easiest to buy a package of safety options, rather than individual gadgets.  Lexus, for example, places an emphasis on how its safety features work as a system.  It has a package with lane-departure warning, smart cruise control, and ESC.

Integrating such systems, and the yielding of throttle, brake, and steering raise the question: Do drivers need or want this much help?  Who is actually in charge of the wheel?  No matter the answer, an auto warranty is essential in protecting your vehicle with all of those fancy gadgets.

Teens are known for making driving mistakes, which unfortunately can result in car accidents. This leaves parents feeling anxious, not knowing if their teen driver is safe. There are numerous devices out there that allow parents to track their teenage drivers.  However, now parents can track their teen right from their own keychain.

Many technologies out there monitor the speed and location of your teenage driver, and some even videotape who’s riding in the car.  However, now there is a Canadian company that is offering a new device called the Lemur Autovision keychain.  For the low price of $99.95, parents are able to track the maximum speed that their teen is driving, as well as excessive braking and distance traveled.  Essentially all that it requires is the installation of a non-GPS based sensor box and the monitor keychain.  This system doesn’t invade a teen’s privacy, but allow parents to discipline children for speeding.  And the best part is that it is tamper proof and protected by a PIN, which lets parents know if there have been attempts to fool the system.

Parents need to take extra precautions to keep their teen drivers safe, which includes purchasing an auto warranty, monitoring teen driving, and setting strict guidelines.  You can never be too careful when it comes to your children.

The dashboard of recent vehicles feature innovative technology that will have drivers in awe.  This technology is a benefit to us all, as long as we are covered by an auto warranty.  Yet, how many drivers actually know the functions and operations of all of these controls and switches?

When a motorist slips into the driver’s seat, he should become one with his machine.  People tend to oversimplify the task of driving.  Sometimes we think the driver only has to perform elementary movements of throttle, ignition, steering wheel, and pedals.  However, there is a lot more involved in driving. A defensive driver will make himself aware of the instruments and their operations before he ever puts his car in drive.

It is risky to search for a button or dial while driving because that means that the driver’s eyes aren’t on the road.  A safe driver will go through a list of operations before taking off.  For instance, they will flick switches and turn knobs in a set sequence.  Also, they will check the gauges for the ammeter and oil pressure once the engine is running.

Enjoy the modern technology that your car has to offer, but learn about the functions off the road, not on.  Educating yourself in advance can save you from accidents.  Of course, with any technology make sure that you are covered by an auto warranty.  You never know when those convenient controls and switches will become inconvenient.

Some recent bulletins stating nagging problems with various car models make an auto warranty a necessity.  The following information is provided by the manufacturers to the service departments of dealers, as well as to mechanics.

Some General Motors vehicles have had problems with oil leaks. Vehicles that were produced between 1986 and 2008 with various 60-degree v-6 engines may experience oil leaks from the rear seal of the crankshaft.

Some of Ford’s large trucks have fuel injectors that are stuck.  This is specifically on the 2005 Ford F-150, Lincoln Navigators and Expeditions.  Apparently, the injectors could become stuck open or closed, which could result in powertrain damage.

Owners of 2007 Jeep Wranglers may have difficulty getting started in the morning.  A faulty engine camshaft sensor is responsible for a long cranking time.  To avoid this problem the sensor must be replaced.

Auto manufacturers are always discovering new problems that can be a headache for motorists.  Don’t be caught off guard, purchase an auto warranty to avoid expensive repairs.

The Honda Fit made its first appearance in Japan in 2001 and is now being sold around the world.  It has earned many awards, such as “Car of the Year” in Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom and New Zealand.  So why is the Fit so special?

Honda says that the Fit is targeted to people who are buying their first car, those who want a small affordable vehicle, and empty nesters.  Honda hit the target with this because the Fit is “The” best car as far as the small vehicle market is concerned.  It is sporty, with adaptability in the interior, and has the dependability and refinement that is found in all of Honda’s vehicles.  Of course, the Fit offers all of this at a bargain price.  This is a bonus because saving money on a purchase price allows you to buy an auto warranty that will protect your investment.

One of the major benefits of the Fit is the unexpected large area for passengers and cargo thanks to the design of the interior.  It is called: Fit’s Magic Seat.  This magic seat has different modes, including cargo, people or both.  The seatbacks allow for folding down or the bottoms of the seats can flip up.  This provides for four cargo and four seating configurations.

The bottom line is that the Fit is a great car.  The adaptability and configurations of the seating are very clever.  It’s sporty, as well as quiet and practical.  It maneuvers well and has good fuel economy.  In addition, the safety features are superb.  To protect your investment, it makes sense to purchase an auto warranty for this car that will give you peace of mind.