Buying the Best Luxury Car for Your Money

What is the best luxury car? Well, it depends on what you need, and what you want. There are so many to choose from, I guarantee there is a luxury car for you!

If you are thinking about buying the best luxury car your money can buy, the first question is how much money you are going to spend. When we talk about luxury cars, prices can range from the mid-30 thousands and up. Luxury cars can be classed into different levels: entry, mid, high, and ultra level luxury cars. Each level is designed for a specific type of consumer.

So where do you start looking for the best luxury car? You should first look for dealers available in your area. If you live near a big city, you should have plenty of options for luxury car dealerships. If you live in a more remote area, you will probably have more difficulty finding a local dealership, and will need to travel to your nearest metropolis. Either way, keep in mind that it will be easier in the future if you find a dealership that is close to your home or work. It will be more convenient to drop your car off for routine maintenance or service if it is close to your normal routes.

After you have checked your local area, be sure to do a lot of research on the Internet. Look for the models that your local dealerships may have available. Consider what type of luxury car might be best for you. Some cars will focus more on presenting an aura of success and wealth (like Lincoln) while others (like Subaru) target people who want a powerful engine under the hood.

Narrow down your choices, and look at the history of the models you are still considering. It is well worth buying a Consumer Reports magazine, or the annual new car buying guide, to look at that model over the last several years. Consumer Reports does a very thorough job researching the quality of the cars they review, and you can get a lot of good information on problems that model has had through the years, as well as the positive aspects of that model.

One thing to keep in mind when choosing the best luxury car for you is gas consumption. In the last year or two, this has become more of a major concern in car buying at any level. A few years ago, it was not much of a factor, which is why half the people you see driving around today own gas guzzling SUVs. There is no end in sight to rising gas prices, so try to find a car that can maintain decent gas mileage at standard city and highway speeds.

When doing your research, look at the resale value of the car. You can get that information from the Kelley Blue Book or other sources. If you really want to play the depreciation game, buy a car that is one to two years old, where the majority of the value is already lost. You will be spending a lot of money buying the best luxury car you can afford, but that's no reason to invest poorly. Finally, consider how much money you will need to spend on routine maintenance or potential repairs. This may take some additional research, as the dealerships are not generally forthcoming with that information.

By doing your homework thoroughly, you will find the best luxury car for you. Don't buy more than you can afford, and get the best deal you can. Enjoy the ride!

Will You Buy or Lease Your Next Car

There are many choices when it comes to buying or leasing your next vehicle, here are some tips to help you to make the right choice for you.

My wife and I have had many cars over the years and we have financed them in different ways. When you are in the market for a car you will be bombarded with a lot of different options on how you will own it. Will you buy the car and take advantage of some great low interest financing from the car companies or will you lease it and not worry about the car because you know you will be turning it back in within a couple of years. I have gone both routes several times and I have to say that each has their advantages and disadvantages. At this particular time in my life my wife and I both own our own cars, but our last cars were leased. Here are few things you will need to look at to help you to make your decision.

1. How much do you drive - Leased vehicles have mileage caps on them. The last ones that we had were about 17,500 miles per year which may seem like a lot but they really go by fast. After the miles are over you start paying a healthy per mile fee for every mile you drive over which can really get expensive quickly. Even just driving around town, if you do it often, can add up to that many miles and if you throw in a long road trip of two this can put you over in a heartbeat. If you drive less than this on a consistent basis then leasing a vehicle may be something you should look into.

2. How much do you love cars - My wife has a love for cars, she always likes to see the newest models and the way that they look. I'm not as interested in cars. I like to be comfortable when I drive but it's not that big of a deal to me to have the newest vehicle, I tend to get comfortable in a car and not to want to let that one go for a newer model. If you like changing cars every couple of years then leasing would be a great option for you. It lets you get in the newest cars and keeps you interested in what you are driving.

3. Financing Options - Both bought and leased vehicles have their ups and downs when you are talking about financing. The one thing that you do not want to do is to get sucked into a great ad that the dealership has put out promising you the moon and when you get to the dealership you find out that all of the extras that you would want on the car put you well over your spending limit. The little things can really add up so go in with a looking attitude and not a buying attitude, the deal will still be there in the morning.

These are just a few tips to help you to make your car buying decision. Just remember to take your time and sleep on it if you need to so that you don't get stuck with something you are unhappy about for a long time.

Used Car Value
Find out what your used car is worth

By Dakota Dog

Buy Your Teenager A Car

Do you think your teenager would want to own one of your hand me downs? Even if you do try to purchase the coolest GMC auto parts to make up for the fact that you have been using the vehicle for years already, chances are, your teenager would still want you to buy him (or her) a new vehicle.

With all the good buys you have as option in the market, you may be getting more for your money if you would rather choose to purchase a new vehicle for your teenager. You see, this year, there a lot of choices for the best vehicle to purchase for your teenage driver. Sure, you cannot even buy those luxury cars for yourself but you sure can buy your teenager with 2006 models with the right amount of features for just the right price. Some experts in the industry do share the best 2006 model units that you can buy for $20,000 and even less than that.

One of the top choices for cars for teenage drivers is the Honda Civic 2006 model unit. The base price for this one is some $14,360 and you do get one of the best vehicles and most sought after vehicles there is in the auto world. It is also much known to be a reliable vehicle.

For $13,710, you can get one 2006 Mazda 3. According to experts, you can get this vehicle and get the best handling you can have in a vehicle. This vehicle is also sporty and would be just right for those teenagers who would like to take a good sporty vehicle for a spin. There are also engine choices so your teenager would surely love this one.

The 2006 Scion tC is yet another good buy for $16,300. And yes, this vehicle would give your teenager just that much room and space. So, with this vehicle, your teenager could go driving with his friends and not have to worry about room. Or he can also use the vehicle to go to get-away weekends with friends and not have to worry about how to lug around his (or her) stuff.

By Sarah McBride

Top 7 Cars With Best Gas Mileage

When you are on the look out for a new (or even a new one) one of the most important things most people look for now are high MPG vehicles. With gas prices at an all time high and no sign of a drop anytime soon (if ever) cars with best gas mileage are at the top of the list of priorities.

I did some extensive research on the internet to find the top 7 cars with best gas mileage. The first thing that I noticed was that nearly every survey I found gave differing MPG readings, some of these differences where only 1 or 2 MPG but others where as much as 10 MPG. In the list of high MPG vehicles below I have used the most consistent of the research readings.

(Top 7 Cars with Best Gas Mileage)

7) Honda Fit. This is one of many mini sized cars now available on the American market. Although small it is well thought out and gives you some reasonable interior space. Driving around the city you should expect to get 30 MPG and this rises to 36 on the highway.

6) Mini Cooper. This is a fun car to drive and is really catching on on the American market. It has achieved cult status in many European countries where it has long been a favourite. It will give you 32 around town and 36 on the open road.

5) Toyota Camry Hybrid. With its 2.4 liter engine you can still expect to get a good 36 MPG for city driving and a little better on longer trips. This is fast becoming a best seller in America.

4) Honda Civic. Very popular in the smaller car range. Surprisingly roomy interior, great handling and excellent safety ratings. This car will give you 36 MPG around the city and a great 44 MPG on the highway.

3) Honda Civic Hybrid. If you like the Civic then you will love the Hybrid. Same excellent build and safety qualities but with a fantastic 48 MPG rising to over 50 MPG on those highway drives, making this one of the most popular high MPG vehicles.

2) Toyota Prius. Very affordably priced mid-sized car. With its 1.5 liter engine and practical styling this is a nice roomy car. The Prius will give you a whopping 60 MPG around town but is actually less economic on the highway, giving about 51 MPG.

1) Honda Insight. One of the smaller high MPG vehicles but still one of the top cars with best gas mileage. The Insight delivers a great 60 MPG around the city and a fantastic 66 or over on the longer drives, keeping it on the top of the list of cars with best gas mileage.

These then are the top 7 cars with beat gas mileage according to the most popular and accurate surveys that I found. There are many more high MPG vehicles being produced now, but if you are not in the market for a new car you may want to think about how to get more MPG for your own car.

Discover for yourself how to get more MPG for your car and cut your fuel consumption in half.

By mike legg

Money Saving Car Buying Tips

Here are some car buying tips. When buying a new car, you should realize that it is not only you but the dealer too who wants to benefit more from the transaction. How do you handle it?

Here are some car buying tips. When buying a new car, you should realize that it is not only you but the dealer too who wants to benefit more from the transaction. Even if you do not become more astute with your car deal, you can at least learn to make your next transaction equally satisfactory to both parties. Most deals end up with the buyer feeling unsatisfied and the dealer earning a good profit. So learn how to make a good deal wherein you and the dealer would be happy.

We are past the age when cars were considered as luxury. Today, almost everybody needs cars to catch up to the things we have to attend to. You can expect to buy a new car a few more times again for you or a family member so it is to your advantage to learn how best to do it to make the experience less traumatic. As you shop around for your new car, it pays to keep the following car buying tips in mind:

1. Time your purchase of a new car during the Christmas season when almost all other people are busy shopping for Christmas gifts. Because less people are likely to have either the time or money to buy cars, most automotive dealers employ very creative gimmicks to entice potential customers. Dealers and their salesmen are eager to make a sale during the lean period and they would readily concede when you haggle to bring down the price.

2. Another opportunity to get a good deal for your new car is from July to October during which time dealers are unloading old stocks from their inventory to make room for the new models rolling in from the manufacturers.

3. Still, you can realize great savings by buying online. Since it is a major purchase, some people are not totally sold to the idea although there are others who are taking advantage of the many deals offered by different dealers through the Internet. Watch out for promotional rebates and other online incentives. It is a good idea to print out the best quotes you can get and present it to the dealer of your choice. Lower prices quoted by another company would help you obtain a good deal for your intended purchase. Dealers will customarily offer you the same price if not lower. You're still getting a good deal either way.

4. Regularly visit the various websites of car dealers to keep abreast of the latest car prices, promo deals and great rebate offerings. There are so many available options that you can use to your advantage.

5. A copy of your personal credit score can prove handy when negotiating with a dealer. This will provide you enough protection just in case the dealer tries to play a trick or two when it comes to your credit. Do remember that if your credit score is good, you can expect a lower interest rate on your car loan. Do not give the dealer any opportunity to jack up your expense.

There are more than 5 car buying tips, but you can start with these and get more at used cars.

Remember that successfully purchasing cheap used cars hinges on several different factors. This is true also for car parts. Why not click on the links to get more information?

By Terry Bolton

Buying a Used Car

The purchase of a new car can be a nightmarish experience. However there are ways to simplify the process and make a used car worth the effort.

Whenever the issue of the purchase of a used car comes up, most people cringe at the thought of dealing with the ultimate con artist – the used car salesman. But the fact is that most of the demons reside in the consumer’s head. The purchase of a used car does not have to be as harrowing as it is made out to be. A few precautions taken and the experience can be a positive one and the consumer can rest assured that he has invested his money in the right place. By purchasing a used car there is an opportunity to save a lot of money. You could buy a loaded model with all the gadgets that you might not be able to afford had you bought a new car. A new car depreciates quickly in the first few years and after 3 years it has already depreciated by about 35 percent. Buying a used car is still a bit of a gamble - there is no guarantee that the car is accident-free, has real mileage, and was properly maintained. There may be some hidden problems like a worn out automatic transmission, or engine problems that are not very obvious.

The purchase of the car must not be an impulse buying decision that is taken in the presence of the salesman in his territory. You need to decide what kind of car that you want. Do you need simple transportation to drive to work and back? Do you need a pick-up truck? Is the fuel efficiency a factor? What is the road condition on the routes that you normally traverse? What kind of price range would you be comfortable with? Do as much research as you can. Go through reviews in auto journals, consumer reports, ask colleagues and friends, compare options, and gather data on the make and model you're interested in. Your goal should be to narrow your search to one or two models. Used cars are sold by new car dealers, used car dealers and private owners. Amongst these the owner of the car is the most reliable place to get a car. The private owner however is not in a position to offer a warranty. Once the intermediate player – the dealer comes in, things get slightly complicated. The price for a used vehicle is usually higher at a new car dealership. Another place that is being searched for used cars is the Internet. Every car has a history which can be checked using the VIN number. You will realize that most of the cars will eliminate themselves from the search process because they have been restored after serious accidents, the odometer has been rolled back, there are outstanding dues which are to be paid etc.

It is imperative that you test drive the car. There are a few things that must be checked. Do you feel any vibration through the steering wheel? When you take both hands off the wheel, does the car continue to move straight? Or does it pull to the left or the right? Does the car start easily? Does the engine idle smoothly? Check all of the lights; windshield wipers, radio, cassette/CD player, turn signals, etc. to make sure they all work properly. Is the tread on the front tires worn evenly? Once you are satisfied with all these aspects it is time to bring in the mechanic. Provide him with a list of things that you want checked. Also ask him to give you a cost estimate to repair or replace something that is not in sound working condition.

Once you find something that you like, you must begin to concentrate on the paperwork involved. If you are buying from a dealer, read the warranty policy and all the papers including the fine print very carefully. If it's a "Certified" used car, you'd be wise to check exactly what items were checked off. It would help to have everything put in writing. You will have to deal with issues such as the transfer of ownership, the bill of sales, the registration of a car from another state, the owner's and buyer's responsibilities etc. Get an insurance quote on the model.

When you are negotiating the price, be sure to calculate the total price, after taxes and all additional charges. The tendency is that the cheapest car is a very good bargain. But this is not often the case as some really decrepit models get palmed off. Usually the best deals are available on those cars that are 3-4 years old.

By Anish Chandy

Low Cost Car Insurance with High Risk Coverage

Although each car is different from the other there is one aspect which is common to all - the need for car insurance. Irrespective of its make, model and price, every car owner needs to get their car insured to protect it from the various perils that it is exposed to in its day-to-day usage. However, it is important to look at the different benefits and risk coverage offered by the insurance company before getting the car insured. Usually, the insurance provider that offers a whole lot of benefits at low premium rates is deemed to be the best.

In Australia, there are some car insurance companies that provide flexible, convenient and affordable car insurance. These car insurers offer multiple insurance benefits and cover the automobile against damage/loss of the car, damage caused to other vehicles or damage caused to other people or their property by the use of the insured car. The best part is that you get all these benefits at a very low cost premium! The premium amount of the car is variable, and depends upon some factors such as:

- The make, model and price of the automobile
- The driving history and age of the people driving the car
- Any optional factory extra accessories that are fitted in the car
- The policy holder's residential address
- The finance arrangement of the car

Depending upon these factors, the car's premium value is calculated.

Most of us never realize the importance of a car insurance policy until we have to make an insurance claim. This can also be when we realize that we have been literally taken for a ride! Since most of us overlook all that is written between the fine lines of the car insurance policy papers, we are never able to fully comprehend the risks we are covered against. The best way to avoid this is to go for comprehensive online car insurance. This would ensure that you get a low cost car insurance policy that covers your automobile against most of the risks and hazards.

Some Australian car insurance companies offer low cost car insurance and also facilitate an easy claim process. They provide low cost car insurance with high risk coverage against accidental and malicious damage, fire or theft for the insured car and physical injury of the car owner. Apart from this, the online car insurance offered by them also covers collision, physical and property damage for third parties. This ensures that your car is covered against all the possible problems that you can face.

By Hugh McInnes

Consider Your Car’s Safety

People are becoming very vigilant and they try to scrutinize the vehicles of their choices before they actually decide which one to purchase. Safety is always included in the list of details and features that they are looking for in a car.

One of the major concerns that vehicle manufacturers have to face in their daily production of vehicles is to ensure that each and every machine that rolls out of their assembly plant is safe enough for people to travel on. This is mainly because it actually means preserving people’s lives.

People, on the other hand, are also becoming very vigilant and they try to scrutinize the vehicles of their choices before they actually decide which one to purchase. Safety is also included in the list of details and features that they are looking for in a car.

In this regard, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have come up with a list of safety features that would gladly help out and assist consumers in deciding which should come in their vehicles. The two organizations suggest that it is important that as a driver, you should be cautious and should take into account the number of passengers who would be more or less ride with you in the vehicle. The driver should also consider the kinds of passengers. Will there be adults? Teenagers perhaps? How about children or infants? These should be taken note of for there are various vehicles that have different safety standards. Some are good enough just for children while others have been crafted well to transport only adults.

Aside from passengers, you should also consider the types of cargo that you may be carrying and transporting. Other things you have to take into account include the distance which you will be traveling as well as the kind of road conditions that you might encounter.

Vehicle ratings have been crafted and written down not just for show. They serve a purpose of providing information to those who need it. And if you are a buyer concerned about safety, it is important that you check the list out. Pay attention to crash test data and ratings. Also look into safety features as well as crash ratings. Make sure that you also know the features in the car you are eyeing. Look for air bags, safety belts, antilock brakes, traction control and child restraints. These are just a few of the most common safety features though you are encouraged to look for further safety features.

One of the leading Ford Exp parts and Ford Contour parts suppliers is Ford Parts and Ford Auto Parts. They offer high quality Ford parts at guaranteed low prices. You can access Ford Parts and Ford Auto Parts’ site anytime and browse through their large collection of parts for your Ford vehicle.

By Jason Moore

Car Insurance, Safety and Cost

Insight in to the car insurance industry. Tips for finding the best car insurance quote to fit your needs and how to protect yourself.

Car insurance has been called a necessary evil by many. If you've ever been in a car accident then you know how important good insurance can be. Every day people are in car accidents for numerous reasons. Some of these reasons could be due to inexperienced driving, driving while intoxicated, bad weather, unsafe road conditions and other driving hazards. But the fact remains the same, car insurance isn't cheap.

Within the world of car insurance, one fact remains the same. The safer you are, the less your insurance will cost you. Now, when I say safe, I don't necessarily mean your ability to drive a car. Numerous factors are accounted for when a car insurance company defines the word safe. "Safe" can mean driving a safe car, being an older more experienced driver, living in a safe town or city, having a clean record of safe driving and much more. This is important to keep in mind when deciding to buy cheap car insurence and keeping your cost down.

The older you get, the lower your rates become. The longer you go without a traffic violation or being in an accident the more likely you are of having a cheaper quote. The more safety features your car has, the less your monthly or quaterly rate will be. The less accidents in your town or city in general can also help determine your overall costs. Even simple things like how many miles you drive a day or your credit score can be indicators to a insurance company of a safe driver.

Some car insurance companies offer cheaper rates, but is this always better? As the standard goes, the cheaper the car insurence, the less coverage you will have. This is all fine until you get in to a car accident and you have no where to turn. It isn't always the best idea to get the lowest car insurance quote online.

Here are some tips and best practices when buying car insurance and still saving some cast. First of all, check the credibility of the company you are considering. Do you know anyone else who has their insurance? Consider multiple carinsurance companies before settling on a single provider. It ultimately comes down to a single truth. The more you know, the better off you are in finding the company that you are looking for and making a smart buying decision that reflects your interest and goals financially as well as providing protection.

Simple safe practices such as these can keep your rates low and your coverage high. It is sometimes better to be safe than sorry and the insurance companies see it this way too.

By Gabe Killian

Safety Institute Asks All Riders To Be Extra Careful During Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day holiday weekend. This is when people do start to take advantage of the couple of days with no work to think about or attend to. And most of these people go right ahead on the open road and find some adventure while driving around various locations.

With this, the All Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute is actually asking all riders and motorists to be more than extra careful during the Labor Day holiday weekend. The organization is also asking ATV owners and drivers to remember that it is important to reinforce and strengthen the safety of using all terrain vehicles. This of course does not just mean that you need to replace any used up and any worn out parts (of course, not with BMW performance parts if you own an Isuzu ATV). This also refers to the various types of behavior that you need to observe while you drive to your destination.

The institute offers various tips so as to help drivers and riders achieve much safety during the holiday weekend. One of these is destined for those who drive motorcycles. The institute says that each driver, or rider for that matter, should wear a helmet as well as protective gear. After all, it is always better to be safe.

Aside from that, the institute also says that it would be best for any driver not to drink if they are still going to drive. This is a very basic rule but many still do not follow this seriously. In fact, there are some who feel that they are invincible that they drink and then drive later on. This is indeed a very important reminder for many celebrations and events are going on during the Labor Day holiday weekend and drinking could very often be found in these.

Driving around with children is a great responsibility for grown ups that is why it is also very important for drivers to take extra caution and extra care on the road if they have children or even toddlers and babies as passengers.

As a manager of one of the largest auto store in Springfield,Massachusetts, Sarah has extensive expertise on auto parts and automotives in general. This 42 year old is a certified car enthusiast.

By Terry Brown

Auto Security Systems Not The Only Way To Prevent Theft

There are several ways for you to prevent your car from being stolen. Most antitheft devices will claim to be superior to all others. However, vehicle security devices are not the only way to protect your car. Auto security systems are one part of the system through which you can prevent theft.

Common sense is your best defense against auto theft. Make sure that you do not leave your keys in the vehicle and do not use hide-a-key devices. Next, make sure to lock your doors and make sure the windows are secure. Also, park in a safe, well-lit area. If you practice these habits a thief will be more likely to chose a different vehicle.

It may not make a big difference which auto security system you select, because any of them will be a good deterrent against thieves trying to steal your car. Don't worry too much about their makers' claims. Whichever system that you buy needs to fit your needs and those of your car, and you need to use that system consistently to maximize its effectiveness.

While many devices are made to help recover or trace the car only after it has been stolen, these also act as a deterrent. GPS tracking devices will tell police where your vehicle is and are often too difficult for less experienced thieves to circumvent. The trick with this is to make sure it is obvious to the possible thieves that your automobile is armed with a GPS tracking device.

Another way to trace parts from stolen vehicles is to have the VIN number etched into the car window. Seeing this number in the window is likely to deter a thief from even touching the vehicle, and they will move on to someone else's car.

Some vehicles are stolen more often than others. The list of cars that are stolen most often are listed in a number of car magazines. If you are in the market for a new vehicle you may want to consult these magazines before purchasing a car. Whether these vehicles have an auto security system or not they may be targets for thieves.

By Peggy Loe

Preparing Your Car For Winter Driving

Maintaining your car is important, no matter what time of year it is. Many people do not realize how much stress that the cold winter weather can put on your car’s drivetrain. There are three main areas cold weather affects your vehicle. Your lubrication system, battery, and cooling system are the areas most affected. In order to prepare for the cold winter, be sure and check these areas and make sure you aren’t going to be stranded in a snowstorm on the side of the road.

Battery
Yes, your battery. Your battery operates at its best right above room temperature. As winter creeps in, the performance of your battery decreases, up to 90% in the worst weather. You want to test your battery and make sure it still has most of its rated cranking power. The older a battery gets, the less capacity it has to build up and sustain a charge, and the cold weather does not help.

Motor Oil
Checking your motor oil should be part of your gas fill-up. You should also regularly change your oil. Oil’s only purpose in your engine is to lubricate and cool moving parts, minimizing wear and tear. In cold weather, oil can get thick, so thick that it doesn’t circulate properly. This poor circulation can lead to added stress and damage for the internal parts of your engine, a reduction in power, and reduced gas mileage. Consider those factors when choosing which motor oil is best for you.

In extremely cold weather, the performance needed from your lubricant is only offered with synthetic oil. Synthetic oil offers protection from the dangers of the cold because it retains its ability to flow at temperatures as low as -70 degrees. The benefits are seen in the summertime as well, since it retains its viscosity in higher temperatures. In cold weather, your battery is already performing below capacity. Your thick oil working against the weak battery is an invitation for disaster.

Cooling System
Every driver should know what an important role their vehicle’s cooling system plays. Comprised of the radiator, thermostat, pump, the car’s heater, and a bunch of hoses, it keeps your car running at normal operating temperatures. Most people think that the cooling system’s only job is to keep the car from overheating. Not true. The cooling system also has the responsibility of getting the engine to normal operating temperatures as quickly as possible.

The cooling system is comprised of mostly water; and in temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, water freezes. When water freezes, it expands, causing cracked hoses, damaged pumps, even cracking the engine block is possible. It isn’t hard to check how your antifreeze is performing. The tester doesn’t cost very much, and they are easy to use and read. If your cooling system’s freezing point isn’t lower than the expected temperatures for your area, it is recommended that you add quality antifreeze to your system. Quality is important, because antifreeze is also the lubricant of your cooling system. Low-quality antifreeze may protect against freezing, but it may not lube your cooling system’s parts, causing premature corrosion and failure.

Traditional antifreeze is an ethylene-glycol-based product. EG antifreeze has been growing less and less favorable, due to its potential environmental hazards, as well as it being deadly when pets or children drink the sweet liquid. Yes, ethylene glycol antifreeze has a sweet taste, not much different than your favorite powdered beverage, only adding to its dangers.

As a result, an antifreeze has been developed that uses propylene glycol. Propylene glycol is considered safe to the environment, as well as to animals and children in case of accidental ingestion. Propylene glycol also tastes foul, almost eliminating the chances of accidental ingestion. AMSOIL has a new propylene-glycol-based antifreeze that is compatible with both propylene and ethylene glycol, so a system flush is not required to use this safe product in your car, no matter what your current cooling system contains.

Preparing For Winter Conditions
Even if you have checked all of the above systems and made sure they are in the best possible shape with the highest quality of fluids and parts, situations still happen. It is always smart to be prepared for a winter emergency. Carry extra items that you might need to survive in case you get stranded in extreme weather. A blanket, extra food, and water can be a lifesaver if you get caught broke down in a storm. Even a shovel and sand can be useful if you need to dig yourself out of the snow or throw sand down to get traction on ice. Jumper cables might help you get a jump a lot faster if your temperature-beaten battery needs a boost. You also want to make sure you carry chains or use snow tires. By being properly prepared and following all of the above-mentioned guidelines, this winter season should be your safest and most enjoyable so far.

By Vincent Platania

CarChip Gives Parents Eyes On The Road

While parents can’t be with their children all of the time, CarChip can help them to be better drivers and give parents peace of mind.

By Mark Hoerrner

It’s the car buddy of the future. Originally designed as an attractive in-vehicle component for business and commercial vehicles, CarChip is finding some applications in the teen community.

For parents, nothing can be more nerve-wracking than a new driver in the house. With CarChip, parents can monitor how much a car is used, the speeds it travels, engine concerns and even when the car makes hard starts or stops. With car accidents being the No. 1 killer of teens in America, the device may lead to improved driving and keep young drivers safer.

Consumer Reports noted that "young drivers' limited experience and immaturity have proven to be a dangerous combination. The hazard is so great that car crashes are deemed the leading public health problem facing teenagers, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) statistics show 5,896 people between 16 and 20 years of age died from motor vehicle crashes in 2004. Another 456,000 were injured."

CarChip is manufactured by Davis Instruments Corp. in Hayward, Calif., and retails for $139. It comes in a couple of different manifestations beginning with the CarChip, which can store 75 hours of vehicle operation; the CarChip E/X, which ups that to 300 hours and adds the ability to monitor up to 23 different user-defined engine processes such as RPMs, Fuel Pressure, Fuel System Status, Air Flow and more; and an E/X version that comes with an alarm. The increase in price is nominal, however, as the E/X model is $179 and the E/X Alarm version is $199.

An article in the Chicago Tribune noted that some parents are finding the device to be the best way to put a new driver on the road. One family in Maryland used the chip for their son, Ben, when he was first driving.

"It annoyed the heck out of him," Susan Schauer, a mother of three, told the Chicago Tribune. "But it gave me peace of mind."

After a year or so, the family felt Ben’s driving was mature enough not to need the chip and the parents allowed him to drive without it. Ben may have felt like his parents were always there in the car with him, watching, judging, but the device allowed Ben to develop positive driving habits.

Other such devices are available. The company DriveHomeSafe.com offers a speed detection device that records data pertinent to speeding events pre-set by the parents ($169 retail); Driveok.com has a location device that uses GPS tracking and a monthly service to monitor teen movements inside pre-set boundaries ($194.95 + monthly subscription of at least $14.95)

By Buzzle Staff and Agencies

10 Point Checklist To Help Your Car Pass Its MOT

Every year the motorist is faced with the ordeal of the MOT test, unless their car is less than three years old. The purpose of an MOT is to ensure the vehicle complies with road safety and environmental standards. Without it car owners are unable to obtain a tax disc for driving on public roads.

But what does the MOT tester look out for? Is it car tyres or fuel emissions? It can become expensive when the vehicle fails and needs to be re-tested. To help achieve a first time pass, this 10 point checklist highlights the main components that are included in an MOT test:

1. Brakes

The car’s brakes are tested on a ‘roller brake tester’ to assess their condition, performance and efficiency. Brakes that ‘lock up’ when applied will fail. Other areas to watch out for are loose brake pedals and signs of leaking brake fluid.

2. Doors and Mirrors

Ensure the doors open and close correctly, from the inside and the outside of the vehicle. Car locks need to work adequately. Wing and rear view mirrors must be present and in good condition. A cracked wing mirror will result in a fail.

3. Exhaust System and Emissions

The car will need to pass specific exhaust emission requirements, depending on its age and fuel type. The exhaust system must not have holes or leaks, often caused by rust.

4. Car Bodywork

Excessive rust corrosion, damage or sharp edges on the car’s bodywork will result in a fail.

5. Wheels and Car Tyres

The tread depth on a car tyre must be a minimum of 1.6mm. The car tyre needs to be the correct type for the vehicle and have no signs of excessive wear or damage. It is recommended to consult a car tyres specialist to check this. Ensure all the wheel nuts are present as any missing will result in a fail. Spare tyres are not tested.

6. Windscreen, Wipers and Washer

The wiper blades need to be in good condition and the windscreen washer must contain fluid. The windscreen cannot have any large cracks and must have clear visibility.

7. Lights and Indicators

All lights and indicators need to work correctly, including the hazard lights. Check that the headlamps dip to the correct angle and are not loose.

8. Seats and seatbelts

Ensure all seats are secure in the upright position. It is compulsory for seat belts to be fitted in the front and back of a car. They must be the correct type and in good, working condition.

9. Steering, suspension and horn

All three need to be in good condition and work correctly. Make sure the horn is the right type for the vehicle. Ensure the wheels are correctly aligned and the car tyre pressures are correct, as these can affect the vehicle’s steering.

10. Registration Plate and Vehicle Identification Number

The registration plate needs to be in the correct format, legible and in good condition. Every car used after the 1st August 1980 must have its vehicle identification number clearly displayed.

Lights, brakes, suspension and car tyres are the four most common reasons why a car will fail its MOT. This checklist is intended as a guide to improve your cars chance of passing. If in any doubt we recommend consulting your local garage before taking the MOT test.

By James Todman

Troubleshooting Car Problems

What can be a more frustrating experience than a car that won't start, or an engine that stalls midway leaving you with no clue about what to do. The next time your car refuses to start, or if you sense some trouble with it, follow these simple steps to troubleshooting car problems before calling for your car mechanic or towing service. This article discusses some common car problems, diagnosis and troubleshooting tips...

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Engine won't start

1. The engine makes a sound while starting known as cranking. If you don't hear that sound when the ignition key is turned on to start the car, this generally means that there could be something wrong with the starter or the battery (assuming you are not out of gas). A simple way to check if your battery is weak or completely discharged is to test the windscreen wipers, lights, radio or fan. If they do not work then the battery may be completely dead or may have faulty battery connections.
2. Check the battery connectors at the terminals. Make sure that the connections are clean, tight and free from corrosion. Call your garage mechanic or towing service if this does not work.

Starter makes a click sound and won't operate

1. You hear a loud clicking noise while starting your car, but the starter does not operate. Check if the lights, windscreen wiper work. If yes, then maybe there is a problem with the starter. Either it is jammed or there could be a problem with the starter motor.
2. Locate the starter motor and tap it with a spanner or a suitable tool.
3. If you car has manual gearbox, try to push-start or call your car mechanic or towing service.

Engine starts slowly

1. While starting the car, if the engine stops cranking after you release the key or if you hear the engine crank very slowly, you may have a weak or dead battery.
2. Check the connector connections at the battery terminal. Clean and tighten them if necessary. Recharge the battery.
3. You can get your car moving by jump-starting the car (please refer to your car user manual for details) or push-starting a manual gearbox car.

Engine turns on but car won't move

1. If the engine is running and the car does not move after selecting the transmission gear, the first thing that comes to the mind is the car’s transmission or drive (assuming that the parking brake is released).
2. For cars with Automatic transmission, check level of Automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Allowing the engine to continue running, check the level of ATF with the ATF dipstick. Pull the dipstick completely out and wipe it with a rag before inserting it back in the engine and remove it again. If the fluid level is sufficient, then it could be the gearshift that has disconnected. If the fluid level is very low or if you don't see any fluid on the dipstick, call for your car mechanic or towing service.
3. For manual shift transmission, check the condition of the clutch. Most probably, chances are that you may only need a clutch adjustment. Burned clutch facings may result in frequent slipping and need replacement.

Diagnosing and Troubleshooting Common Problems
You can troubleshoot a problem with your car with the diagnosis of the odd smells, odors, fumes, smoke and sounds coming from various compartments of your car. Timely detection and diagnosis may help you take preventive and corrective actions for your car problems.

Smells

Gasoline: If you smell gasoline odor inside or anywhere near the car, probably there is a leakage with the fuel delivery system. Pull the car over, and step out immediately. Inspect the gas tank for any leak underneath. Call the nearby repair facility or towing service.

Burning Plastic: The most common cause is a plastic bag stuck to the exhaust. If you smell of rubber burning, check if the parking brake is accidentally kept engaged. Driving your car with parking brake can cause burning smell due to excessive surface friction of the brake pads. Electrical shorts may result in overheating and burning of the insulation material giving out a strong smell of burning plastic. In this case, disconnect the battery immediately and contact your car mechanic to locate the problem and prevent further damage to the system.

Mildew and mold: It is an unpleasant smell that comes from your car upholstery, carpets or air-conditioner evaporator. An accidental liquid spill, rainwater seeping or car flooding can cause the affected area to accumulate moisture and remain damp overtime, giving a chance for mold formation and strong mildew stink. This can lead to serious problems like rust and weakening of your car metal body. Check for the source of odor. Dry the affected area thoroughly, by blowing hot dry air with a hair dryer to evaporate the moisture. Take care that the dryer does not heat up or held too close to the upholstery fabric. Open the windows and let the air escape out. Keeping a couple of charcoal briquettes underneath your car seat absorbs moisture and odor. If everything fails, get your car cleaned at a professional car cleaning facility.

Exhaust: Fumes of exhaust especially inside the passenger compartment of the car can be very dangerous as it contains traces of carbon monoxide, which is quite harmful. It may be the result of a leak in the exhaust system and needs to be attended immediately.

Hot or Burning Oil: It is generally a result of oil or fluid leaking on a hot surface such as hot exhaust manifold. Call the mechanic to look for the leak and fix the problem.

Burning coolant: The burning of coolant produces a sweet smell, which indicates a faulty intake manifold gasket. Get the car inspected by your mechanic at once.

Smoke
You can diagnose a variety of car problems judging by color of the smoke emitting from the exhaust tailpipe.

Blue smoke: When engine oil enters into the engine combustion chamber and burns along with fuel and air mixture, you can see blue smoke coming out of the exhaust tailpipe. Call your mechanic to check the leak and correct the problem.

Black smoke: Black smoke is a result of an excessively rich mixture of air and fuel entering into the cylinder area. The proportion of fuel is more in the air to fuel ratio. This fuel rich mixture does not burn completely in the combustion chamber and produces black smoke coming out of the tailpipe, thus affecting engine performance and fuel economy. Although rich mixture is necessary for engine start-up, black smoke is indication for a faulty injection system or sensors in the engine computer. Get your car tested for emission and call your mechanic for engine tune-up.

White smoke: The white smoke coming from the exhaust tailpipe is actually the steam, which indicates that water or antifreeze is being burned along with the fuel and air mixture in the engine. You may also judge the problem, if you have to add water and antifreeze more frequently than normal. Water or antifreeze if mixed with the engine oil entering into the engine cylinder can damage the engine seriously. Have your mechanic check for leaks and fix the problem immediately.

Leaks
Always check the pavement or floor for a spot or puddle of fluid beneath your car when parked overnight. If you develop this habit of checking for new leaks under the car, you can stay ahead of many problems before they become severe. You can identify the type of leak by the color of the fluid accumulated on the spot of the leak.

Oily and Black or dark: The leaking fluid is most likely the engine oil. Check for the oil level by removing the dipstick and measuring the fluid level. Refill the oil according to the mark on the dipstick and observe the level for a next few days. If you find the oil level dropped and spot or the puddle again, its time to get the leak inspected by your mechanic.

Oily and Red: Most likely to be the transmission fluid. Check the transmission fluid level, refill it and observe for the next few days. If you find that the level has dropped, get it checked by your mechanic to avoid damage to the transmission.

Green or Yellow: Likely to be the coolant leak. Get the leak identified and fixed by your mechanic.

Clear Fluid: Most likely drain water from the car’s air conditioning unit or windshield washer fluid. You may have to touch and feel the fluid or smell it to determine if it is water.

Clear and oily: It is most likely to be brake fluid, which is a more serious type of leak. Get the leak identified and repaired by your mechanic to avoid brake failure.

The common causes of trouble and troubleshooting techniques contained in this article is only an indication to the possible automotive problems and their probable causes. You can save yourself from costly repairs by taking timely action to fix the problem. You may have to visit a qualified car repair facility or take technician’s advice to examine, diagnose and repair your car.

By Shrinivas Deshpande

Extended Car Warranties: Used Car Warranty

Extended car warranties are a important investment while buying a car. Here are some more details about extended vehicle warranties.

Extended car warranties are an excellent way to increase the resale value of the car. Also, extended car warranties increase the security of the car. There are various kinds of used cars warranties available today. Basically, extended car warranties are for a period of two or six years, or for a preset amount of miles. If one owns a car with a extended car warranty, they will have to take their cars to any approved service location in case of a breakdown. Most extended car warranties have the buyer pay a deductible. This depends on the type of used car warranty one has bought. Most warranties also cover seat belts and airbags for a certain time frame or a particular number of miles. Commonly, extended car warranties cover airbags and seat belts for five years of fifty thousand miles. Here is a list of the major types of extended auto warranties.

Bumper to Bumper:A Bumper to Bumper auto warranty, better known as premier plus auto warranty is offered on almost all new vehicle purchases. A bumper to bumper warranty covers the wear and tear on any part of the vehicle and part breakdown. However, there are some aspects of car care which are not covered under the Bumper to Bumper auto warranty. These aspects are basic maintenance like tune ups, flat tires and oil changes. Most used car extended warranties require deductibles. While most bumper to bumper extended warranties are inclusive of everything, some are isolated to certain things.

Powertrain: The powertrain warranty covers the engine, transmission and driveshaft of the car. Some powetrain warranties last for the duration of the original warranty, while others last longer than the original warranty. Powertrain warranties cover only certain aspects of the car. Therefore, if any other parts of the car breakdown or fail, they are not covered under a powertrain warranty.

Powertrain Plus: The powertrain plus used car warranty is an advanced version of the Powertrain warranty. It covers the wear and tear or breakdown of the engine, transmission, driveshaft, along with other car components like the axle, seats, gaskets and a few more. The powertrain plus extended car warranty may be expensive than most other car warranties, but it also offers more protection to the car.

Premier: The premier extended car warranty covers all the aspects of a car. It is also known as a Full Coverage warranty. The Premier car warranty covers not only the powertrain plus aspects of the car, it also covers various other parts of the vehicle. Some aspects covered by the premier extended car warranties are signal light breaks and keyless entry.

Roadside Assistance: Roadside assistance is a common offering by many warranty providers. Roadside assistance is a boon for car-drivers during far-flung visits. Roadside assistance makes it possible to receive help during a breakdown with a simple phone call. Roadside assistance is a very good idea, with some warranties also covering tow-truck charges as well as the charges of renting a car during an emergency.

Free Scheduled Maintenance: Some extended car warranties offer free scheduled maintenance of the vehicle for a period of time. This maintenance generally consists of mandatory car check ups like tune ups and oil changes.

Extended car warranties can be bought either directly from the car dealership or companies offering car warranties. One should be careful and have considerable information about extended car warranties before opting for one. There are various companies offering car warranties which have their products listed on their websites. The websites offer more information about the features and advantages of their car warranties. One should decide which warranty best suits their needs before opting for a car warranty.

By Roy D'Silva