Many people believe that pickup trucks and SUVs cause extreme damage to cars in a collision because they are heavier and bigger.  And although size is a factor, the main culprit in collisions involving low speeds is the mismatch of bumper heights.

In the United States, SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks aren’t required to have any bumpers.  While some car manufacturers do put bumpers on these vehicles, they usually don’t match up with car bumpers, which are required to have bumpers 16-20 inches above the ground.

In addition, pickup truck and SUV bumpers are typically flimsy.  In fact, bumpers on most of these vehicles are purely decorative.

The result of bumper mismatch is a hefty repair bill resulting from even the most minor accidents.  Without a bumper, there isn’t anything to protect a vehicle’s expensive sheet metal.

People wouldn’t expect a 10-mph collision to completely disable a vehicle, yet often times when bumper mismatch is involved, one or both vehicles are undrivable.  To deal with this problem, motorists should make sure that their vehicle has a bumper and they should practice defensive driving.  In addition, you should always have a good auto warranty in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Cars need fuel pumps because the gas tank is on the opposite side of the car than the engine.  The purpose of the fuel pump is to bring the fuel to the engine.

Fuel pumps come in two varieties.  Vehicles that have electronic fuel injection systems use electrical fuel pumps.  Carbureted vehicles have mechanical fuel pumps.

The carburetor delivers fuel through a vacuum.  Here, the vacuum that brings the mixture of air and fuel to the engine also draws the gas along lines to the engine.  But, extra help is needed, so engines that are carbureted have a fuel pump that is mechanical.  This pump is located next to the engine of the vehicle.

Electronic fuel injection is a system of delivery in which gas is squirted into the chambers of the engine.  The fuel pump is next to, or inside of the gas tank.

Cars with electronic fuel injection typically don’t have the fuel pump fail.  However, when it does, the car will start to sputter and eventually die.  In addition, it won’t start back up. It is important to protect yourself with an auto warranty so if your car fails you won’t have to pay unnecessary repair expenses.

There is nothing worse than getting your car repaired and hearing, “It isn’t covered under your auto warranty.”  Often, motorists are confused because they assume that certain repairs are covered.  Drivers need a little education to understand more about their new car warranties.

People need to understand that an auto warranty isn’t an entitlement, but an agreement you make with the car manufacturer.  Your responsibility is to fulfill specific maintenance requirements that the manufacturer sets.  After doing your part, the manufacturer must perform repairs resulting from a defect or a failed part.

So, what parts are covered?  The auto manufacturer must cover the parts that it makes.  For example, transmissions, engines, steering, suspension, computers, instruments, chassis wiring, and other parts that they manufacture are covered.  Maintenance items and wearable items aren’t covered under new car warranties.  For example, filters, hoses, belts, brakes and tires aren’t covered.

What about the parts not made by the manufacturer of the car?  Items such as stereo systems and conversion components have a warranty through their manufacturers.  These can be found in paper work you received with the purchase of the car.

The best thing that you can do to avoid misunderstandings about new car warranties is to educate yourself.  Make sure that you do your homework and read all of the fine print in your auto warranty.

These days many vehicles are being offered with 4WD systems.  It can be difficult for consumers wanting to purchase a car with 4WD to distinguish between the different systems.  There is Part Time 4WD, Full Time 4WD and permanent 4WD.  So, what’s the difference?

The most basic of the 4WD systems is Part Time.  This allows the driver to choose if they want to drive in two-wheel drive or 4WD.  This sounds appealing, but has a downside.  The 4WD shouldn’t be engaged unless it is very slippery.  The reason for this is that 4WD will lock the front and back wheels.  Although this is good for slippery conditions, it makes for awkward handling on dry surfaces.  This system is, however, less expensive and very durable.

The most commonly used system is Full Time 4WD.  This system offers a two-wheel drive mode and 4WD.  Also, there is a high and low mode for various conditions.  An advantage to this system is that a center differential allows the front and back wheels to rotate at two different speeds.  Also beneficial is that this system offers more control and better handling on different road conditions.

Permanent 4WD is comparable to Full Time, yet it doesn’t have a two-wheel drive mode.  The car will always be in 4WD with this system.  Torque is being applied constantly to all of the wheels, which allows for traction in various weather conditions.  This system has high and low modes that are applied automatically.

Four- wheel drive is a great feature to have on any vehicle that may encounter challenging road conditions.  However, with any technology make sure that you purchase an auto warranty to cover you from paying unnecessary repair costs down the road.  This will allow you to have peace of mind.

Everyone once and awhile it’s necessary to clean up your vehicle and make it look nice again.  Here are a few things that you can do to make your car look brand new.

Caring for your car means starting with a comprehensive washing.  You need to get off all of the mud, grime, and road salt that have built up on your car over the past few months.

It is important to use a pH balanced wash on your vehicle.  You don’t want to use a detergent that is harsh; it will strip away car wax on your car.

Following a good washing, evaluate your vehicle surface.  To do this you can rub your hand on top of the surface of your car.

If your car surface is rough on your hand, you probably have water deposits, bugs or tar.  You want to get these things cleaned off before waxing your vehicle.

After taking these steps, it is time to apply a car polish and wax that will protect your vehicle’s finish from harming elements, such as acid rain and UV rays.  Coat your car with the wax in a uniform, smooth manner.

It is important that you be proactive in caring for your vehicle.  This includes washing, waxing and maintenance.  In addition, purchase an auto warranty to protect your wallet in case of unforeseen repairs.

Tribal has just launched a new site that provides customers with a true life-like car shopping experience without ever leaving their homes.  Volkswagen.co.uk allows people to virtually sit in and walk around new cars.  Tribal created this web site because customers often feel that buying a new car can be confusing.

Research shows that people who want to purchase a new vehicle do most of their research on the Internet.  This means that trips to showrooms are cut in half.  Volkswagen responded to this by giving buyers a virtual experience from the comfort of their own homes.

The site features a car configurator that is very sophisticated.  It has 3D models of the new Volkswagen range.  Visitors are able to change every option that alters the appearance of the vehicle.  This lets people create the car of their choice.

In the future, people who visit the site will have the ability to book test drives by accessing the booking systems of retailers.  In addition, they will be able to see the availability of models at specific retailers.

Volkswagen has responded to customers needs by allowing people to shop for a vehicle from the comfort of their own homes.  Also convenient, is that customers can purchase new car warranties online from a wide range of providers.  An auto warranty is a smart way to protect your new investment.

If you’re a lover of old cars you aren’t alone. Antique car shows all over the U.S. display vintage cars.  Crowds gather to admire these charming vehicles.  Owners who display their vehicles have a great deal of pride.

Many people who own vintage cars have restored them piece-by-piece, literally. It’s not just that they have rebuilt the vehicle; they have restored it back to its original state.

It is simple to differentiate between rebuilding and restoring a car.  A car that has been rebuilt has new parts.  A restored car has parts that are authentic to its year and model.

The restoration process encompasses the body of the car and the mechanical components.  It is amazing to some people that the actual parts must be original to the year and make of the vehicle, but this is necessary for a true restoration.

The restoration also includes the vehicle’s interior.  The upholstery should be repaired whenever possible.  It can be nearly impossible to find the exact upholstery for a car’s year and make.  If this is the case, you need to get as close as possible to the original.

The restoration of a car is a labor of love, but well worth it.  There is no greater satisfaction than turning a piece of junk into a beautiful classic.  And don’t forget an auto warranty will bring any motorist peace of mind, especially with a vintage car.

When it comes time to purchase a family car, there are several considerations.  First, you have to think about having plenty of seats and cargo space so your family is comfortable.  Next, you need to find a car with good fuel economy, low maintenance costs, dependability and most importantly, safety.  That is a lot to ask of any car, and with all of the options out there, which car should you purchase?  Here are some top picks.

Surprisingly, the Suzuki XL7 is a great overall SUV.  You can get this car fully loaded for $29,000 with a fantastic auto warranty.  It comes complete with all-wheel drive, a DVD system, power everything, leather seats, and a 3.6-liter V6.  It also has a curvy exterior with a sporty, modern look.

If you’re looking for a great sporty sedan, the VW Passat is an excellent choice.  This car ranges from $23,915 to $39,140.  The Passat has excellent style, drivability, fuel-efficiency, and of course price.  In addition, it has a lot of high tech features, and the safety rating is excellent.

Crossovers are very popular, and the Mazda CX-7 is a great family vehicle in this category.  With a $23,750 base price, the CX-7 has room for five people, and it has a striking appearance.  Its drivability is excellent with its 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with direct injection.  This car’s interior is classy, modern and comfortable.

Finding the perfect family vehicle can be challenging.  It is important to do your homework to find the vehicle that suits your family the most.  Also, your new vehicle should have an auto warranty that will protect your against unnecessary repair expenses down the road.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that small cars aren’t as safe as big vehicles, back in 1997.  Yet, today there are more small cars than ever.  Small vehicles aren’t the only way to accomplish fuel-efficiency and reduced emissions.  There are now light construction materials that can accomplish this feat on larger vehicles.  In fact, making a vehicle lightweight will improve safety.  A car that is lightweight is more nimble than a heavy car, allowing motorists to avoid accidents and road service calls.

Many people make the assumption that weight and size of a vehicle go hand in hand.  This isn’t necessarily true.  Lightweight, strong materials, like carbon fiber tend to be expensive, however, certain high-end automakers are implementing it on roofs and hoods.

The Smart ForTwo is using plastic door panels.  The doors won’t ding or scratch, and are reinforced internally with steel bars.  This gives the best protection in the instance of a side impact, yet it is more lightweight than a conventional door.

Small vehicle sales are at an all time high in the U.S.  Currently, the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit are the top sellers.  Although consumers will have to pay more for big vehicles that are lightweight, it is worth it because of safety.  In addition, motorists should have good new car warranties to protect themselves.

In order to help your car maintain it’s best performance it is necessary to get routine service and maintenance.  This will also prepare your vehicle for difficult driving conditions.  Here are a few tips to keep your car running at it’s best.

First, it is necessary to regularly check your tire pressure.  It’s a good idea to do this every other time you fill up at the gas pump.  Also, check the tread on your tires occasionally for wear and tear and make sure there is no cracking.

Next, regular car washes will keep your exterior looking it’s best.  And putting a coat of wax on will keep your car from corroding.

Make sure to notice your check engine light.  If it comes on, don’t ignore it.  Getting your car to a professional in this instance is essential to avoid costly repairs down the line.  Of course, you should have an auto warranty to avoid unnecessary repair expenses.

Finally, maintain a service schedule with your mechanic.  There are parts of your car that should be inspected periodically by a professional.  Consult your owner’s manual to determine the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle.

Following these simple maintenance tips can save you from unnecessary repairs down the road.  However, it is necessary to have an auto warranty in case of unforeseen repairs.