It’s common knowledge that carmakers are having a difficult year. And just to make things even harder, some cars that are perfectly good don’t even get a fair shake. One car model can be just as good as another one, yet consumers don’t give it the attention of a competing model.

For instance, the Saab 9-5 gets 21 mpg and comes with a sunroof and leather seats, and goes for $37,685. However, only 1,943 consumers bought that car, while 81,967 people purchased the similar BMW 3-Series for $32,700, which is the segment leader.

Another story of tough luck is the Acura RL, which is a competitor in the large luxury car division and is one of the Top Safety Picks, along with the S80. However, the RL, which is powered by a V-6, isn’t a match for competing car models that have V-8 engines. Because of higher fuel prices, the RL appeals to some shoppers who are fuel-conscious, but it seems that buyers looking for luxury cars have a preference for power over safety.

These cars are great examples of vehicles that deserve a second look because they have features that are unique and high quality. Unfortunately, they are small players in a huge market. Consumers should consider the benefits of these cars because not only do they have a lot of features to offer, but also they are priced right with a good auto warranty.

When considering the engine, most people don’t realize how important the alternator is.  In fact, the alternator is indispensable because the engine won’t run without it.  The alternator is the source where the power train gets power.

Alternators were created in order to convert mechanical energy into a current that is alternating.  In order to do this the engine belt drives the alternator shaft.  Doing this allows electricity to be produced from the mechanical energy of the machines.  Then, the power becomes channeled.  The electricity produced recharges the battery and powers the electrical system of the vehicle.

If you need to replace your alternator you will discover that some contain more amps and some are definitely more expensive. However, an auto warranty will give you peace of mind with any vehicle repairs.

No matter what car you have, make sure you can see the bolts.  Many times, other parts have to be removed to have access to the bolts.  Before you remove your alternator, take note of the way it’s connected.  Then, mark its location so you know where to connect it.  Afterward, start to unplug the wires that connect to the alternator.  Finally, take off the bolts and remove the alternator.

Without the alternator, the engine can’t function.  If you can’t replace it yourself, find a mechanic to take care of it.  Whatever you decide, make sure you have an auto warranty to save you from costly repairs.  After all, you never know when you will need to replace a part on your vehicle.

An innovative original system will boost fuel efficiency approximately 1 m.p.g. in the all-wheel drive Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300, 2009 models.  Drivers will be thrilled to have extra savings, due to this technology.  Also, new car warranties will ensure that drivers don’t pay extra expenses.

Chrysler has already made significant changes to its vehicle models.  In fact they have made 500 improvements since last year.  For example, they reduced excess engine noise in their Dodge Caliber and Jeep Patriot.  Also, thanks to new mounts for the engine, noise and vibrations are lessened in the Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring.

The updated all-wheel drive system makes the vehicle more fuel-efficient by disconnecting the drivetrain from the front axle, until it is necessary to activate all-wheel drive for safety.  The economy ratings by the EPA for all-wheel drive versions of these models will be comparable to the rear-drive model ratings.

At the moment, the 300 and Charger, as well as other all-wheel drive vehicles lose at least 1 m.p.g. in ratings by the EPA because energy is being sent to the front axle, even if it isn’t needed.  This new technology will alleviate this problem.  However, motorists should always protect themselves with an auto warranty with any technology, just in case it unexpectedly fails.

The two-mode hybrid system will be coming soon.  The Allison Transmission division of BMW, GM, and DaimlerChrysler originally developed this system.  This alliance is called the Global Hybrid Corporation.

The reason that this system is called a two-mode hybrid is because it has high and low-speed modes for the electric variable transmission.  Four fixed gear ratios have been included for high efficiency.

Some of the same functions are featured that are on the Ford and Toyota one-mode hybrids.  For instance, the vehicle will turn off at a standstill, while breaking the batteries charge, and the electric motor, the engine, or both, can be used to power the vehicle.

The two-mode hybrid is very adaptable.  It can be used with several engine or drive train configurations.  In addition, it can be mated to engines powered by gas, E85 or diesel fuels.

This new system will be put into the GMC Yukon and the Chevrolet Tahoe by late in the year.  Mercedes and BMW will also be offering this system, but they haven’t stated what cars will be utilizing this technology.  With any new vehicle technology, an auto warranty is a necessity.  After all, you don’t want to pay unnecessary repair costs in the future.

SUVs that are small offer better efficiency than their bigger counterparts, but even the most efficient models can get expensive to top off, since gas is over $4 per gallon in many parts of the country.

But, if you are still determined to purchase an SUV, what are you to do? One of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market is the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid, with an estimated 34 mpg in the city, and 31mpg on the highway for front wheel drive, and 29/27 mpg for all-wheel drive. Other than a few hybrid-specific characteristics of the drivetrain, the Ford Escape Hybrid drives pretty much like a small conventional SUV. Also, this vehicle offers great new car warranties.

Determine your priorities when considering purchasing the Ford Escape Hybrid; they might easily swing your choice either one way or the other. To make this purchase worth your while, you need to be purchasing it for its hybrid benefits because when you factor in other attributes that may be less-desirable, like rear-seat folding that is archaic and interior quality that is spotty, the hybrid opens the door to Honda, Hyundai, and Toyota competitors.

Still, the crash-test scores of the Escape Hybrid are much better than they were previously, and you can get an improved appearance in the cabin with the Limited. And, with consumers’ concern about high gas prices and a good auto warranty, this hybrid system is reason enough for motorists to consider buying a Ford.

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

Some GM 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 pickup 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.

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

When purchasing a new car, it is up to consumers to do their homework before shopping.   This will ensure the best deal possible.  Three important tips will save you from unnecessary costs.

First, look around to find the best dealership.  One way to do this is to check the Internet about dealerships. Web searches can be a wealth of information. Many times you will find complaints or positive revues that could help you.  Also, it is a good idea to contact several car dealerships in your area to see which ones are going to respond quickly and be helpful.

Next, don’t buy alarm systems or dealer financing. These are two ways that consumers lose in the end. For example, when cars are manufactured they already have wiring installed.  However, automakers sell alarms separately for up to $1200.  This is added on to the price of the new vehicle.  Also, finance offices don’t usually give you the best deals.  A better option would be to put your money towards a much needed auto warranty.

Finally, sell your car before arriving at the dealership.  If you sell it yourself, you will get a much better deal than you would on a trade-in.

The bottom line is that any mechanical breakdown leaving a motorist stranded could wipe out all of the gains from a perfectly negotiated deal.  New car warranties should be an essential part of your purchase in order to protect you from unnecessary repairs.

In August and September the economy took quite a hit.  Also, these months proved to be unpredictable for auto incentives.  Instead of offering the typical program, GM promoted an Employee Pricing Sale, and Chrysler told people to Shop ‘Til You Drive.

Those great deals will be ending on September 30th, which means if you would like to take advantage of the great prices and terrific new car warranties you better act now.  The deals by GM continue: you might like the $9,000 you would get off the H3 or the $10,000 you would get off of the Corvette Z06, but consider that getting $2,000 off of the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu isn’t shabby either.  Chrysler experienced some problems with promoting percent-off deals; they probably would have done better by promoting cash-back numbers.  However, the fact remains that you can still get $9,000 off of pickup trucks like the 2008 Dodge Ram.

There are various other incentives out there, too.  In certain regions you can get $2,000 off of the 2009 Ford Taurus, while you can get great deals on Ford trucks, like the 2008 F-150 has a $7,000 cash back deal.  In addition, now is the time to inquire about great deals on an auto warranty, as well.

GM announced this morning that it plans to double production of its four-cylinder engine, and the majority of the increase will come to North America.  This shift in product planning was to be expected, and so was the plant that will be built in Flint, Michigan for $370 million, which will manufacture the new 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine.  This engine will be used in the upcoming Cruze compact sedan by GM and is also the gas range extender for the Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid.

To maximize efficiency the Cruze’s engine will be turbocharged.  The Cruze is expected to have 140 hp and 148 pounds/ft of torque, which is about the same as the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla.  And according to GM, the Cruze will probably be a fuel leader when compared to its class.

One problem, however, is that the factory is yet to be built.  That’s the reason that the Cruze will be available in Europe in 2009-it’ll have a diesel engine there, and then in 2010 it will come to the U.S.  So, for now Americans will have to hold onto their current cars and invest in a good auto warranty, because they will have to wait a couple of years for the Chevy Cruze to hit the U.S.

Analysts have expected the prices of crude oil to go down for months now, yet they keep going up. Will motorists ever be able to afford important things such as an auto warranty and maintenance again? Crude oil prices had a considerable decline early in the year, however the hope is not just that the price will make demand go down, but that the amount of non OPEC production delayed will hopefully catch up late in the year and into next year. The market will soon continue with production, which will cause prices to drop.

The investment of the oil companies are based on around $55-$75 per barrel of oil. If you look at history, that is still very valuable oil. That’s what we are going to see, and gas prices will drop. However, the question on everyone’s mind is when.

Consumers shouldn’t expect price drops to be dramatic until late in the year. Gas prices will likely rise and peak throughout the nation at about $3.50 per gallon. However, motorists could see significant relief late in 2008 as new production is evident online.

There are a few things working in favor of lower gas prices. Ethanol will displace a large part of the demand for gas since it will be taking 10% of gas out of the picture. Also, prices won’t be up an enormous amount from years past, just about a percentage point. However, this isn’t the beginning of the $4-$5 per gallon apocalypse for gas. Never fear, motorists will be able to afford such things as used car warranties and maintenance again.