Mistakes To Avoid When Fighting A Speeding Ticket

There are many potential mistakes someone could make when fighting a speeding ticket in the court room. With this in mind, I’ve prepared some of the common pitfalls many people make, so you can avoid them and get your case dismissed. Here are the mistakes to avoid: Never motion the court before the trial for any documentation. You don’t want to tip the fact that you are (hopefully) prepared for the case. Never motion the court for their evidence before your trial. One of the key ways to fight a speeding ticket is what is known as trial by ambush. You want the prosecution to be unprepared, so don’t tip your hand early. Never testify. Even if the prosecution is challenging you to testify, you should refuse. If you were to take the stand, the prosecution would be allowed to cross-examine you, and they will most likely trap you into admitting you were speeding. If this happens, you will lose. Don’t make any statements about your speeding. Don’t let the prosecutor lead you into making any statement. They are there to find the proof, don’t make their job any easier by making comments like “I wasn’t going that fast”. Don’t let the prosecutor know what your game plan is. Remember that they don’t have the time or inclination to gather all the information they need for each and every case. Most of the time they are just relying on you wimping out. They are used to trials not lasting more than a few minutes. If you tip your hand to the fact that you know what you’re doing, they may very well decide to do a little preparation for your case. Don’t let that happen. Keep your cards close to your chest. Never object to anything the police officer says when he is making his testimony. If you object early in the game like this, the prosecution will know what you’re up to, and you’ll lose your advantage. Don’t bother to ask for a jury trial. If you do this, the prosecution will prepare themselves. Also, what many people don’t realize, is that the prosecution can easily ask for the biggest punishment allowed…which could mean serving jail time just for a little bit of speeding. That’s not good for you. Also, at a jury, you can still be found guilty even if there is no evidence. In a jury trial, people will be much more annoyed at your offence because you’re taking up their time.

Read More

Pets: How to Take Care of your Dog

The Bond that can come between a person and a dog can be extremely strong, especially if that bond had been strengthened living with each other for many years, I have personally cried after loosing our family dog that had been like a best friend to me from my birth till I as 15 years old, when he was hit by a car one morning. Dogs serve many different needs for people. Some people get a dog because they are lonely and need a loyal friend or because they want a dog to protect the home. A dog that is taken good care of and given attention to regularly will give his life to help protect his home and his owner. For the blind a dog can be a pair of eyes to help them get around and for the police a dog can be an important tool and a loyal partner, with a nose that nothing can beat. The first thing you need to know about taking care of a dog is that dogs need lots of exercise. This is the same for large dogs and small dogs. All dogs need to be let out at least once every 8 hours and should given at least a 20 minute walk to give the dog some fresh air, exercise and a chance to relieve themselves. It is also important to play with the dog on a regular basis. This can mean going to the park on a weekend or day off and having a good game of fetch, tossing the ball around in your back yard or just wrestling on the ground with the dog, just make sure if you are ruff housing with a little dog that you don’t accidentally hurt the dog. Playing with the dog for a half hour a day, is not only good for the dogs physical health but a dig that is played with regularly is mentally healthier and less likely to become a depressed dog, it also lowers your blood pressure as well and it will form an unbreakable bond between you and your pooch, which will extend to your family if you should start having one after having the dog. What you feed your dog is very important to the dogs continued good health. The better dog foods will be marked for what are groups the food is appropriate for. Younger dogs need certain vitamins and minerals in larger amounts then an adult dog, and the same goes for an elderly dog they need more calcium in their food to help protect their bones and joints. Feeding your dog the wrong food can stunt the dog's growth and opens the dog to a larger risk of surgery when they are older. Just like a person a dog should be taken to the veterinarian's office every 6 months, and must receive their shots every year. Regular checkups and vaccinations will also help assure that your dog grows to be an old happy dog.

Read More

Why I've Always Loved Old Cars

From the time I can remember, each year my father, three brothers, myself and our grandfather would take a week away in the summer and go on a tour of old cars shows around the country. We would try to see different old cars shows each year (you'd be amazed by how many there are to choose from!). So I guess you could say that I have come to my love for old cars honestly. It has literally been growing in me since the time I can remember. My mother, grandmother and sisters would take that same week each year to enjoy at our lakeside cabin, and even though we offered for them to join us for the old car shows, they never seemed interested. At first, I loved going to the old cars shows because it was a great time to spend with the guys I loved most. My dad didn't get very much time off of work, so when he did we made sure to enjoy it. I didn't care too much about what we saw or what we did at the old cars shows, I just loved hanging out with my brothers and goofing around with my dad and grandpa. As I got older, my love for this beloved week of summer changed a little bit as I actually started to enjoy the whole purpose of our trip: to see as many old cars and learn about them as we possibly could in a week. Hour after hour in the car was spent discussing old cars and talking about the intricacies of each make or model. We would stop by our public library each year before the trip and gather as many books and magazines about old cars as we could. It was simply astouding to see how much had been written and published on the subject within a year. The more I learned about old cars, the more I too became fascinated with them. I have always loved anything to do with history, and I guess I figure that old cars are historical in the sense that they teach us about the history and progression of automobiles in our country. There is nothing I love more than finally seeing a make and model of an old car that I have been anticipating viewing for a year. I'll admit that I have even gotten emotional a few times as I have finally gazed upon an old car that I had been dreaming about all year. If you don't have a love for old cars yet, I'd suggest that it isn't too late. Grab some books, do an online search, or get yourself to an old cars show as soon as you can! You won't be sorry.

Read More

When to Replace Brake Pads

Worn brake pads can adversely impact your ability to bring your car to a halt. This can be especially dangerous in an emergency situation when adequately working brakes are a must to help you stop your car promptly. There are some telltale signs of pending brake problems; do you know what they are? Awareness of a problem is the key to avoiding potential harmful consequences; let’s examine some well known warning signs. Signs of pending brake trouble include the following:

Squealing brakes

Pulling of the car from one side to the other

Wheel grabs

Brake pedal pumping

Sudden and hard brake pedal

Spongy brake pedals

Grinding of the brakes While some of these problems may necessitate you replacing other brake components, an inspection of your brake pads should reveal that they are worn and are in need of immediate replacement. Your next course of action depends on your expertise, your time, and on your wallet. Most garages offer a free brake inspection and this can be a wonderful opportunity to have someone else inspect your system to confirm your findings. Ask your mechanic for a complete diagnosis of your brake system and an estimate on what parts and repairs will cost you. A good garage will give you a print out showing a fairly close estimate of what your costs will be. Throw in your local taxes and the price quoted should be within 95% of the final cost, barring an unforeseen additional problem being detected [for example, brake master cylinder failure]. If you feel reasonably confident that you can do the work yourself, you stand to save yourself plenty of money, at least in labor costs. You can save money with parts, too, by shopping around; the highest prices you pay will likely be through your dealer’s parts department. Prices at a national auto parts supply store should be lower, while prices through an online wholesaler should be about the lowest available as they purchase directly from the manufacturer. If you decide to purchase online, only obtain parts from a reputable dealer selling parts from trusted manufacturers. Be careful of those sites selling generic parts from overseas merchants. Make sure that you can return what you purchase, if needed, to address in based in the U.S.

Read More

Winter Car Care Tips

The cold weather affects your car too. Along with making driving more hazardous due to ice and snow, extreme winter weather can be stressful, especially on older cars. As winter approaches take you car to your trusty mechanic and have him check the following items: battery, wipers, antifreeze levels, heating system, brakes, defroster. You'll want to make sure your battery is fully charged as cold weather starting is a heavy drain on your battery. You'll want to make sure that your windshield wipers are in good condition as they'll get a lot of use brushing snow off, and, make sure you have plenty of windshield washer fluid in the reservoir and carry an extra gallon in your car. Your windshield washer fluid will get used up quickly keeping salt off the windshield. You will want to make sure that your antifreeze is at proper levels. Antifreeze can prevent freezing of your engine to about 30 degrees below zero. It should be replaced every two years. Have your heating system checked, this will include your defroster, which you'll really need during the winter. Make sure you have good winter tires on your car. If you live in an area where you get a good amount of snowfall you may want to make a seasonal change from all season to snow tires. All season radials just don't give you the same performance in snow and ice that dedicated snow tires do. There are things that you should keep in your car during the winter. Snow scraper, deicer, blankets, extra hat and mittens, small snow shovel, sand (to help with traction), boots. At all times you should have a small first aid kit, booster cables, small tools such as screwdriver, wrench and pliers a flashlight with extra batteries, extra water. Keep a can of deicer in your home so you'll be able to get into your car. Remember before leaving home to make sure your car is completely cleaned off. Clear all snow and ice from your hood, roof, trunk and side. Make sure your headlights and tail lights are clearly visible. Drive slowly. The posted speed limits are for ideal driving conditions. When driving leave plenty of stopping distance between you and the car in front of you. You may need to leave more distance in icy conditions. Make any turns slowly. Brake slowly. By following these tips above you can have a safe winter driving season.

Read More

Muscle Car Restoration 101

Restoring muscle cars is a hobby for some and a profession for others. There’s just something about the classic high-performance cars that collectors, racers and general car enthusiasts find fascinating. If you are a hobbyist who is interested in restoring a muscle car, you will probably benefit from a few restoration tips. The restoration of muscle cars begins with shopping for a muscle car that can be restored. Prior to buying a car for the purpose of restoring it you need to make sure that the parts needed for the restoration are available and you can get your hands on them, and that you can afford to complete the project once you start it. Before going shopping for a muscle car to restore, decide what your purpose is for restoring a car. Do you just want a great muscle car to drive? Will you be racing? Are you restoring the car so you can participate and compete in classic car shows? Do you intend to sell the totally restored muscle car for a profit? Once you’ve determined the purpose behind your muscle car restoration you’ll have a better idea about what type of muscle car you want to get. Before you go shopping, read up on different muscle cars and learn all about their performance, their value and so forth to make sure that the car you choose is appropriate for you intentions. To make sure that you don’t get ripped off in a muscle car transaction, find out what the muscle cars you are looking for are worth “as is” and what they are worth once they are restored. Having this information at your fingertips will help you to determine whether or not you are really getting a “great deal” when you begin to negotiate to buy a muscle car. Before you buy one, make sure that the parts needed to restore your muscle car are available and affordable. Set your budget and your timeline for restoring the car so you know how much you can afford to spend for the muscle car itself and for the parts and other expenses that will be incurred in the process of the restoration. Following these simple suggestions at the beginning of your muscle car restoration project will prevent you from starting a project you can’t finish and will ensure that your muscle car restoration project is enjoyable and that you meet your goals for muscle car restoration, whatever those goals may be.

Read More

The Benefits Of Radar Detector

If you are anything like me, then your life is really busy and there is not enough time in the day to get everything accomplished. Busyness may be reflected in many ways in your life, such as choosing fast food over a home cooked meal or not getting enough sleep. One thing that my busy lifestyle has meant for me is fast driving. I know, it isn't safe, and I've really been working on my schedule to allow enough time for safe driving, but in the meantime I've discovered the best thing of all: a radar detector. Basically, a radar detector is something you can buy and install in your vehicle that allows you to be made aware of when their is a police car near you. Why is this helpful, you ask? Well, for those of us who drive even a little bit over the legal speed limit, a radar detector allows us to be warned whenever there is a cop that could potentially pull us over for our bad behavior. I know, it sounds horrible to use a radar detector because it basically allows you to break the law without getting caught for it. I have learned, however, that inspite all of my efforts to just slow down, that life is going to continue at a fast pace and hence that I need to rely on a tool like a radar detector if I have any hope of keeping my driving record clear. There have been probably fifteen instances in the past year alone where I have been speeding along from one activity to the next and my radar detector has suddenly alarmed me that their is a cop near me. I can immediately slow down to the speed limit and remove the risk that I might get caught. Obviously, if having a radar detector were legal than every driver would have one and no one would ever get caught speeding on the roads. Not everyone has learned the secret of the radar detector yet, so that is why I am trying to enlighten other fast drivers and make it possible for a few more of us to get by without tickets. Yes, radar detectors cost money, and so not everyone will be able to purchase one. The way I look at it is that a one time purchase of a radar detector is much more reasonable than paying for an endless number of speeding tickets. So here are your options: either slow down and drive the speed limit or purchase a radar detector to protect you from getting caught in your bad habit.

Read More

Shop At A Car Auction For The Perfect Car

If you are hunting for a car, there are many places you can look. There are new car dealers, used car dealers, those who are selling their car privately, and car auctions. You have a multitude of resources at your disposal to find a great car. Some of these resources are better than others when you are attempting to find the right car for you. The first question you must answer is what kind of car are you looking for? What are your purposes for getting the car and what will it be used for? What is your budget and realistic price range for the car? Answering these questions will be very helpful before you go off and buy a car. Going to a car auction can be a great and undiscovered way to find the right car for you. I'll admit that I was a bit leery when a friend suggested that my husband and I visit a car auction or two before we purchased a car for our family. I really didn't know anything about car auctions, but I went along to see what we could learn and possibly to get a great car. We knew we were looking for a family car that could comfortable hold six people. Obviously that narrows down our options either to a van, mini van, or suv. We were aware of these limitations and yet we didn't have an overly large budget to spend. Quite frankly, we were not expecting to find anything that worked. If you are looking for a great car, I would highly suggest going to a car auction. Basically, a car auction happens when cars have been leased and then are put up for sale to the public. Often car auctions happen in large cities and gather hundreds of people. You have to know what you are looking for then be insistent about finding it. The great thing about going to a car auction is that you can usually find great deals as discounted prices. It is likely that you will get a better deal on a car at a car auction than you will even at a used car dealership. You can find out about car auctions online, through word of mouth, or even sometimes in newspapers. Check for updates on car auctions once a week so that you do not miss out on any great sales. If you are looking for a great vehicle or two, don't forget to look at car auctions. You may be surprised how much time, money and energy you save looking all in one place during one day.

Read More

You Can Protect Your Car From Mother Nature

Mother Nature has it out for you…your car, that is. The moment you bring your vehicle home from the dealership, the assault has begun. Sun, rain, snow, hail, dust, birds, debris, pollution, and a host of other elements and items can doom your “new car” look in no time. What can you do? Fight back, that’s how. Let’s take a look at some smart ways you can protect your vehicle’s finish and keep it from looking old before its time. Wash and wax. Okay, so you don’t have a hose handy. If you go to the car wash, make sure that it is brushless, otherwise the circular marks on your finish will certainly do a number on your car’s appearance in no time. As far as waxing your vehicle, polishes made by popular brands including Turtle Wax should do the trick. Yes, I know, a friend recommended a particular brand that can give your car a look that is better than new. Go ahead and use it…just follow the directions on the bottle precisely! Keep it covered. Yes, driving down the street with a car cover on your car will certainly get you some attention! I do not recommend that you do that, but having a car cover available for your vehicle makes sense even if you keep your prized possession garaged. Dust and indoor pollution can take its toll even when your car sits in your garage while bird crap, moisture, hail, tree sap, the sun, and small impacts can hurt your car’s finish when parked outside. The more layers your car cover has, the better the protection it will offer too. Select one that has mirror pockets for the best fit. Minor details. Other accessories that offer protection for your vehicle include: floor mats and liners, seat covers, vent shades, hood protectors, and brake dust shields. If you carry pets regularly then a pet pad or pet box can protect your interior like nothing else. When purchasing cleaning products make sure you read all labels carefully. That cleaner you use may not be the best thing for your wheels and the interior of your car should have its own type of cleaner. Check manufacturer’s recommendations to make sure that the product you use is the right one; some cars come with an initial supply of cleaning materials to help you properly treat your brushed aluminum or burl wood interior.

Read More

Transfer Made Easy Through Heavy Transport

Heavy transport services ensure handling and transportation of heavy materials safely. Bulk material like pallets, cement, iron pipes and ore concentrates can all be transported easily through heavy transport facility. There are multiple transportation options for those who want heavy materials transported. Heavy transport can be done through trucks, trains and even cargo ships. Most people use trucks, as it is the most convenient heavy transport option. Meeting specific requirements of all the customers through versatility and flexibility are the key to run a successful heavy transport business. Techniques of Heavy Transport Many employers make use of pallet trucks for transporting heavy material. The pallet truck is specially designed to lift weight up to 4000lbs. It uses a pallet jack to lift material from the ground. Thus, the purpose of the heavy transport companies is solved with the help of the pallet trucks. A pallet truck is made of stainless steel and zinc, which is further galvanized and coated with chrome. This gives the pallet truck a unique property of being able to withstand environmental conditions and rough terrains. Types of Pallet Trucks A variety of pallet trucks is available in the market. You can choose the one best suited to your work. Heavy transport is best done with pallet trucks. Ergonomic pallet trucks, foldable pallet trucks, electrical pallet trucks, low profile trucks, big wheeler trucks are just some, to name a few. Some of the pallet trucks provide the facility of a push rod or an integral scale. Even wide turning radius pallet trucks are available in the market. Skin adaptor is another feature that the pallet trucks offer now. Many pallet trucks with advanced features like an LCD display, a printer and auto fare functions attract customers. These special functions work on rechargeable batteries. To purchase a pallet truck, you can go online or even get one custom designed. Heavy transport has become easy with pallet trucks. However, extra care needs to be taken while using these advanced trucks. Less manual labor and more power equipments need to be used to reduce ergonomic stress. Maintenance of these trucks is another factor that has to be looked into.

Read More

Selecting The Best Used Car For Your Lifestyle

When shopping for a used car, it is important to select one that best fits your lifestyle. For example, if you live in an area that is prone to harsh winters with a lot of snow, a 4-wheel-drive will likely be a good choice. However, these automobiles use more gasoline than a compact car. So, if gasoline consumption is at the top of your list for concerns, a smaller automobile may be the best option. When you purchase a used car, it’s also important to understand the varying cost of insurance. Automobile coverage for an SUV, for example, is more expensive than a smaller vehicle. The same is true of a sports car, which will likely garner an increased cost of insurance. The next thing to consider is the style of the used car. If you have children, a van or SUV may be the best way to accommodate everyone comfortably and still have plenty of storage space. If you are single and just want to have a reliable mode of transportation, a smaller car will more than suffice. If you plan to travel often or will be adding a lot of mileage, your best bet would be to find a used car with the lowest mileage possible. Another selection will include the choice of either an automatic or manual transmission. What about doors? Do you a prefer two or four door automobile? This is an option that most people don’t really think about right away, but it is an important one nonetheless. A four door used car is very convenient for loading luggage or groceries and it also makes it really convenient for passengers to climb in and out of. When it comes to interior, car owners will have the option of selecting from cloth and leather. Each has their benefits and drawbacks, so which one is right for you? Leather is excellent when it comes to cleaning up spills, but fabric interior is more susceptible to stains. Leather is often very hot to the touch on sunny days whereas fabric interior is comfortable even on the warmest day. Both will show tears and require their own method of maintenance. When searching for the perfect used car to fit your lifestyle, carefully consider the cost before deciding to purchase. Monthly payments can be high even on a used car, so think about the budget and what you can afford prior to signing on the dotted line.

Read More

Why use a Moped?

A moped is a form of low powered motorized vehicle that has defined expectations. This will include the engine, speed, and the power input the moped has. These motorized vehicles are made to use on the same roadways as the other motorized vehicles and with the right safety procedures, it can be a lot of fun to ride. Moped is great alternatives to an expensive car or truck. You can save a lot of money when you purchase on these items. The normal cost for one is much less than that of a regular sized bike or motor vehicle. You will not only save money on the actual purchase, you will save money on the gas and the maintenance of the moped. You will be able to ride it more often and not have to supply it with so much gasoline each time. A moped is usually restricted to thirty to thirty-five mph. Most areas consider a moped as a limited speed motorcycle. These great items were introduced in the early 1950’s. At this time they were nothing more than a bicycle with a small motor. Since this time, they have invented many new forms of this type of transportation that has made life a lot easier for some. There are moped that a lot of college students use to get around the campus. This will make it easier for them to get from one class to another. They can travel the campus and not have to rush around or use a lot of gas. This will be a great help for them because college life is one that can be expensive anyway. There are also a lot of older adults that use the mopeds on a daily basis. These people will run their mopeds because they want to have their freedom and still be able to move around without worry. These mopeds are a great way for them to keep their independence. There still has to be a certain level of safety used when riding a moped. You have to watch for other vehicles and wear the proper safety equipment. A helmet and other safety gear are defiantly needed for a fun and safe ride. You should also make sue that there are reflective devices on the mopeds as well. There are many moped dealers in most areas. If you cannot find a good location to make your purchase, you can always shop online for one. There are so many great deals to be found and it will be well spent item for anyone to buy. It is going to be a great way for someone to get around freely and not have to worry about spending a lot of money. For more info visit: http://www.discountmopeds.net/

Read More

You Can Install Custom Tail Lights

You have seen them on all kinds of cars: tail lights that are an obvious aftermarket modification that give even the most nondescript compact sedan an attention getting, stylish look. From Neons to Civics, and from Dakotas to Escalades, and for mostly any model in between, enthusiasts are changing their vehicle’s appearance with these cool looking mods. Exactly what are they? Some call them European tail lights while others call them Altezzas, after the name of a popular manufacturer of this type of tail light. No matter what you call them, you can install a pair in less than one hour on your vehicle. European tail lights are an easy to install modification of your car’s tail light assembly. Available as either “clear tail lights” or “red tail lights” your stock tail light assemblies are replaced with a custom fitted unit developed for your particular make/model. In short what you are doing is installing crystal clear or red lenses that go over bullet-style taillight and turn signal lenses. The new lenses, paired with style rings and platings, help to accentuate the light emitting from auto tail lights and turn signals for a distinctive look that is vastly superior to the original design. Euro tail lights are marketed in an assortment of styles and bezel colors including chrome, carbon fiber, black, etc.; some surfaces are paintable for a customized appearance. What's more, new LED or light emitting diode tail lights are catching on tool. This particular mod features the fitting of new bulbs that light quicker and illuminate brighter than standard tail light bulbs. LED bulbs are filament free and can bear up under grueling road conditions better than any stock bulb. At some point in the future all vehicles will likely come equipped with LEDs, but why wait that long? Naturally, if you already own certain European models – BMW and Audi are two examples -- then you probably are satisfied with your stock lights as they are what inspired the whole “Euro tail light” craze in the first place. Best of all, Euro tail lights are street legal and meet stringent Department of Transportation (DOT) and Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) regulations. No need to worry about being ticketed by highway patrol either unless you modify the mod illegally! Manufacturer directions are simple to follow and assembly can be completed in as little as 30 minutes for the pair. So, before you know it you’ll be cruising down Rodeo Drive in your little deuce coupe for the whole world to see!

Read More

The Importance of Auto Accessories

Auto accessories play a key role in smartening up a vehicle and keeping it looking top notch. These accessories are supplementary components that improve the capability of a vehicle, and in fact play a cardinal role in the entire process of auto care. Car Care: Car care involves comprehensive care and attention to interior and exterior accessories, body, tires, engine and other mechanical parts. This is necessary to keep the vehicle in top performance and appearance. Interior car accessories may include dash covers, car seat covers, mirrors, shifter knobs, aftermarket steering wheels, steering wheel covers, fuel consumption meters, window tint film, stereo system, mobile video or DVD players, floor mats, and air fresheners. Car seat covers can be purchased in various materials and designs, depending on one’s preference. These include leather seat covers, sheepskin seat covers, custom car seat covers and infant car seat covers. Exterior accessories may consist of styling body kits, spoilers, sports mirrors, head and tail light covers, car hood shields, car bras, window visors, car covers, a sunroof, wiper blades, hood scoops, window graphics and wheel caps. Truck or SUV care: Undertaking regular care of one’s truck or SUV is naturally very important to keep it in top form. This may also involve sourcing and storing various new or second hand truck accessories, depending on the significance or rarity of the parts required. Some specialized truck accessories include customized truck covers, novelty hitch covers, pickup truck bed covers, and tonneau covers. Benefits of Auto Accessories: Auto accessories provide smart looks to a vehicle. If they are of good quality and taste they provide embellishment to a point where a vehicle would look plain and incomplete without them. The roles of auto accessories are twofold; not only do they smarten up a vehicle, but also help protect the vehicle’s parts from wear and tear. A good example would be how seat covers protect the seats of a vehicle from body wear and the sun, and how a steering wheel cover not only protects the steering wheel from wear, but provides a good grip for the driver. Buying Auto Accessories: Today with the internet, auto accessories can easily be purchased or ordered online. With such a vast array of online auto accessory stores, you can be sure to find exactly what you are looking for.

Read More

Retro Vehicles: Is Volkswagen Next?

Retro styled vehicles are all the rage today and Volkswagen’s New Beetle was one of the first of many of these types of cars to show up on the market. Given VW’s long running popularity, other long since retired models are certainly worthy of being copied, don’t you agree? The Karmann Ghia, the Thing, and the Scirocco are a few that come to mind, however they aren’t the ones slated for a comeback. Yes, VW’s famous “Bus” or Microbus is scheduled to return, to the delight of aging hippies everywhere. Okay, first a quick test. Can you name some of the recent retro vehicles to hit North American highways lately? Besides the Volkswagen’s New Beetle, here are a few:

Ford: Thunderbird, Mustang

Chrysler: PT Cruiser

Chevrolet: SSR and HHR To qualify as a true “retro” vehicle it cannot just borrow the name – like the Dodge Charger – instead, it must take its styling cues from a vehicle from another generation. Enter the Volkswagen Microbus. Yes, open up your cedar trunk and take out those wild looking tie dyed shirts, your cavernous bell bottom pants, and that pair of odd looking leather sandals. Let down your hair [if you have any left], grow a beard [gents only, please] and be prepared to step back in time to the days when the VW Bus was the people hauler of the day. Peace, love, and stop the war you say? If VW has its way then around 2008 a vehicle very similar in style to the Bus will once again be seen cruising the streets of Haight-Ashbury, Greenwich Village, and every freaky place you can think of, man! Just, groovy. Featured at the 2001 Detroit Auto Show, a concept Microbus evoked all sorts of “ooohs and aaaahs” from visitors; it was this same type of reaction that has convinced Volkswagen to go forward with production. As of this writing, there is a battle raging within Volkswagen-land as to how much the Microbus will incorporate the retro look. Seeing how the New Beetle succeeded in the US, but flopped in Europe will VW have the courage to stand tall and bring back the hippie hauler? Or, will VW cave in and produce just another run-of-the-mill vehicle that only hints at its past glory? Time will tell, but my advice to VW is this: get it built now before us hippie dippy types are too old to climb into it. Unless, of course, the Microbus can be outfitted with a wheelchair ramp.

Read More

When Buying Used Car Is Not A Good Idea

Looking for the cheapest car through buying used cars is a smart practice. However, when the buyer is truly saving and is on a tight budget, buying a used car should not be immediately decided upon and should take a lot of deliberation. This is to avoid throwing away your hard-earned money. Therefore, for people who already know something about buying used cars but wish to know when not to buy them, here are some pointers that may help people in their decision-making: 1. Buyers should be wary of buying used cars from owners that do not have complete and pertinent documents. This could mean a lot of negative things and the buyer is the only one who will be at the losing end. Documents are crucial especially if the car is second hand. It is the only solid guarantee that a buyer can get hold of when buying used cars. If this is the case, then, the buyer might as well not pursue the deal. 2. Buyers should consider their budget If the reason why the buyer is opting to purchase a used car is the budget, then it should be the same reason why the buyer should be careful and meticulous in choosing a used car. Hence, if the car needs a lot of maintenance, repairs, and other modifications, it is best not to buy that used car. 3. If the buyer is not comfortable after test-driving the car, then, it is best not to buy it. There are instances wherein some people tend to opt for used cars because of the model of the car being sold. It is their dream car and there is no other way they can purchase them but to buy them second hand. However, if the buyer was not comfortable with the car after test-driving it, then, it would be better not to pursue the deal, even if it means the world to the buyer to have that car. The bottom line is that buying used cars should never be the sole alternative to people who cannot afford to buy new ones. This means that people should value the process of choosing a used car like what they would do when they buy a new car. After all, it is their money that will be put to risk that is why it is extremely important to consider all the factors in order to have the best buy ever.

Read More

Take the Information Superhighway to Driving Safely

Whether you're thinking of buying a new car or just doing some research on your current one, the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a Web site that can help in several ways. Easy Access to Safety Ratings One of the site's most convenient features is the 5 Star Crash Test and Rollover Ratings search engine. This online database lets you look up a vehicle by make, model and year to quickly access its safety rating. Ratings are based on a one- to five-star scale, with five being the highest. Since online test results go all the way back to 1990, this can also be the "go-to" place for those seeking information on used vehicles. The ratings are determined by: 1. Frontal crash test: Crash-test dummies representing an average-sized adult are placed in driver and front passenger seats and secured with the vehicle's seat belts. Vehicles are crashed into a fixed barrier at 35 mph, which is equivalent to a head-on collision between two similar vehicles each moving at 35 mph. 2. Side crash test: Crash-test dummies representing an average-sized adult are placed in the driver and rear passenger seats (driver's side) and secured with the vehicle's seat belts. The side crash test represents an intersection-type collision with a 3,015-pound barrier moving at 38.5 mph into a standing vehicle. 3. Rollover ratings test: Rollover ratings starting with the 2004 model year include the results of a recently implemented tipping test. Dubbed the "fishhook" for its serpentine design, this rigorous on-the-road safety test measures your chance of rollover and is the first of its kind to be conducted by a government agency. Rollover ratings for previous model years are based solely on a stationary test that measures how "top heavy" a vehicle is. Defects and Recalls In case you think your current car or truck has a defect, the site has a section where you can file a safety complaint, research ongoing investigations and check for recalls. Your online complaint submissions help lead to recalls and increase highway safety for everyone. In addition to reporting complaints about vehicles, vehicle equipment or tires, you can use this to file a complaint about a child safety seat. The site also provides useful information on rollover prevention, air bag safety and tire ratings.

Read More

Time to Fall Back Into Your Auto Maintenance Routine

As summer winds down and fall begins in earnest, auto-care experts say that getting your vehicle serviced for cold-weather driving should be high on your list of things to do. Here are some tips from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) - the nonprofit group that certifies automotive technicians - on preparing your car for winter weather. * Read your owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules. Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual. Do this more often - every 3,000 miles or so - if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips. * Get problems such as hard starts, rough idling, stalling and diminished power corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather will make existing problems worse. * Replace all dirty filters. * Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Keep your gas tank filled to help prevent moisture from forming. * Have the cooling system flushed and refilled as recommended. Periodically check the level, condition and concentration of the coolant. * Have a certified auto technician check the tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps and hoses. * Make sure that the heater and defroster are in good working condition. * As part of routine battery care, scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces, then re-tighten all connections. If the battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly. Note that removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data on some newer vehicles, so check your manual. Also, be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid; wear eye protection and rubber gloves. * Examine the exhaust system for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes. * Examine the tires' tread and look for uneven wearing and cupping. Also, check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Rotate the tires as recommended. * Check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires "cool down" before checking them. Don't forget to check your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition. * Prepare for emergencies. Stock your car with gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or cat litter, tire chains, a flashlight and a cell phone. Put a few "high energy" snacks in your glove box, too.

Read More

Tips on Preparing Your Car for Summer Driving

Spring is the perfect time to get your vehicle ready for the busy summer driving season ahead. It's wise to have your vehicle checked out before summer's heavy vacation traffic and stop-and-go conditions begin in earnest. The experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence offer the following tips on getting your vehicle ready: * Read the owner's manual and follow the recommended service schedules. Pay attention to "regular" vs. "severe" schedules listed, and determine which is appropriate for your driving conditions and habits. * Look for an orderly repair facility with modern equipment in the service bays and qualified automotive technicians on staff, as evidenced by trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work and training, as well as national certification of the individual technicians by ASE. * Flush and refill the cooling system (radiator) according to the service manual's recommendations. The level, condition and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. Make sure the engine has cooled down before removing the radiator cap. Engine overheating is the most frequent summer breakdown. * Have engine performance problems corrected, such as hard starts, rough idling and stalling. You'll get better gasoline mileage, and you could prevent more expensive repairs. * Don't neglect your transmission and brakes. Costly repairs can be prevented by routine service. Neglected brakes can create safety issues, too. * Seek out a qualified auto technician to check the condition of belts, clamps and hoses, but be proactive by looking for signs of wear, cracking or fraying. * Have a marginally operating air conditioner system serviced by a technician qualified to handle refrigerants. Older units often contain ozone-depleting chemicals that could be released into the air through improper or incompetent service. * Change the oil and oil filter as specified in the owner's manual. This simple, inexpensive service can increase the life of your vehicle. * Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV) as recommended in the service manual. * Check the condition of tires, including the spare. Let the tires "cool down" before checking their pressure. Uneven wear, "cupping," vibrations or "pulling" to one side indicates problems with your tires or suspension system.

Read More

Sustainable Energy Policies Debated By State Governments

Energy usage has become THE hot issue. As the price for gas and home heating oil climb into the statosphere, lots of folks are praying for relief. Will the government provide that relief? In his recent State of the Union address, President Bush declared that the United States is"addicted to oil." Lots of people thought that signaled a new push by the Bush administration to address the issues of how we're going to keep the lights on and the cars rolling in the 21st century. Unfortuantely, those hopes largely fizzled after the speech when no new initiative or programs were actually put into motion. Many state lawmakers, impatient with the federal government's slow to non-existent response to our "addiction" to oil, have begun to take things into their own hands. State lawmakers, many from so-called Democratic "blue" states, have started passing regulations for power plant and car emissions. They're also requiring some energy to be created by renewable techniques such as wind and solar. Energy efficiency requirements for household appliances are also being discussed. So far, the federal government has been happy to let the state legislatures pick up the slack on environmental concerns. "I don't see anything wrong with the states being involved," commented Senator Pete Domenici (R-N.M.), who is currently chairman of the federal Energy and Natural Resources Committee. While some argue that state regulations will not have an impact nationally on greenhouse gas emissions, others say that if the requirements are enacted in enough states there will be a significant impact. And is looks like states ARE having an impact, even if global warming hasn't come to a screeching halt. Several manufacturers have adopted new nationwide regulations to avoid having to customize products for each state. "If we can't get the federal government to act, then we have to take action in any way we can," said Gina McCarthy, the commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection in Connecticut. Let's just hope all this boils down to better prices for consumers.

Read More

What are Gas Scooters?

By Flemming Andersen Gas scooters are fun for just about anyone. These are fun and exciting gas powered scooters that you can ride just about anywhere. They are faster than your normal push or electric scooter. You will find that a gas scooter is going to give anyone a lot of fun and pleasure. Anyone can ride them and they are safe as long as you use common sense and follow the rules of the road. There are gas scooters for people of any age. These fun items come in many sizes and colors. You can buy any size to fit anyone so that they have a fun and safe ride. There are gas scooters for children and adults and they do not require any special license to run. You can have hours of fun on your scooter and even use it as a form of cheap transportation. Many people ride these gas scooters for transportation to work, school the library, and just to ride around in. There are many advantages of having a gas scooter and one of them is the gas. Gas prices are rising everyday and using a scooter instead of a car will save money on the gas. You can go for a long time on only a small amount of gas in one of these scooters. You will defiantly get your money out of a scooter. Gas scooters look like little mini bikes. They have the same design as a dirt bike or other motorcycle, except they have a larger base. They are larger and more stable than a motorcycle and they are a lot easier to learn to ride. More and more people are buying these scooters because they are much easier to learn to ride. Many girl are getting interested in these gas scooters to use as their form of transportation. There are many colors of gas scooters. You can choose from black, other classic colors or you can go with one of the bright, and fun colors that these wonders are found to be in. There is one gas scooter to match just about anyone’s personality and you will have a good time shopping for the one that you want the most. With a gas scooter, there are no more wasted moments in a traffic jam and people will get to their destinations a lot faster. They will enjoy riding with the luxury of knowing that they are riding safely and using a gas efficient form of transportation. It is better for your wallet and for the environment as well. It may take some practice, but in a short time, anyone can learn to properly ride a gas scooter. Once someone gets the hang of it, it will impossible to get him or her off of it! For more info visit: http://www.scootergas.info/

Read More

Seat Covers, Different Types Offer a Perfect Fit

There are three different types seat covers, a custom fit, semi-custom fit and universal fit. Let's take a closer look at the benefits you get with each style. The following paragraphs summarize the work of seat cover experts who are completely familiar with all the aspects of seat covers. Heed their advice to avoid any seat cover surprises. Custom Fit Seat Covers Just as an Armani suit is properly measured, cut and stitched to fit the unique shapes and contours of the wearer, so too is a custom fit seat cover meticulously designed for a precise fit over your seats. No part of your particular vehicle's seat is forgotten or overlooked - not the position of the head rest, nor the location of the seat's ergonomic controls, nor even where your seatbelts are mounted. Everything is taken into consideration, and these made-to-measure seat covers will fit like they were factory-installed. Moreover, custom fit seat covers will not obstruct your seat's side-impact airbags, so you'll be just as secure as before, only with better looking and better protected upholstery. Semi-Custom Fit Seat Covers While a tailor-made suit fits your body to a T, off-the-rack clothing still looks and feels great, and you usually have enough left over for a matching shirt and tie. Semi-custom fit seat covers are the economical alternative to the tailored suit. They are stitched together following patterns that will work with your vehicle's seats as well as with similarly sized seats in other cars, trucks and SUVs. Except for the 3 Star Semi-Custom Sheepskin Seat Cover, semi-custom fit seat covers do not leave access to lumbar controls, and they should not be used if you have side-impact airbags on your vehicle. Nevertheless, they deliver fantastic protection against the whole gamut of seating hazards. Universal Seat Covers Like the name implies, universal seat covers fit any high-back and low-back bucket seat, regardless of your year, make or model. Rather than being used as long-term coverings, our universal seat covers are a perfect companion in your vehicle for when life gets a little messy. They install in seconds, so you can slip them on when you need them and store them away in your trunk when you don't. Like the semi-custom seat covers, the universal seat covers should not be used on seats with side-impact airbags.

Read More

You Can Examine Your Brakes

Regular brake inspections are an essential part of good automotive maintenance that can save you money and keep your car from wrapping itself around the first tree out of your driveway. Make sure that your brakes and rotors are receiving the proper maintenance by following the steps outlined. Your safety as well as that of your passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers is at stake. 1. Time for a free inspection. Many local brake shops as well as national brake repair chains offer customers free brake inspections at no obligation to you. The inspection typically includes the following steps:

Check your vehicle’s brake pads and shoes for signs of wear;

Fill and/or replace hydraulic fluids;

Examine rotor/drum wear and calipers;

Examine the anti-lock brake system [if you have one] An annual check up of your brakes is wise, but do it more often if you drive well above the national average [about 15,000 miles per year] or if you do heavy stop and go driving. 2. Awareness is the key. Most brake system problems can be avoided if motorists would pay attention to certain signs of pending problems including:

Your brake warning light comes on.

Your brake pedal is either squishy, difficult to push down, or you must pump the brakes to get them to work correctly.

Your brakes grind continuously and you hear a loud metallic racket when you push down on them.

Your car pulls to one side when you push down on the brakes, instead of stopping in a straight line.

Your car jerks to a halt when you push down on the brakes.

One or more wheels are strikingly hot even after a brief trip.

You observe fluid leaks in the vicinity of any wheel or in the engine section near the master cylinder. If you are an at home mechanic, you can complete your own inspections and fit your vehicle with top notch replacement parts including brake pads and calipers. You can save on parts by purchasing them from a reputable online wholesaler such as Pit Stop Auto Parts who can offer to you top quality parts at sensible prices, typically much lower than what your dealer or an auto parts store would charge you. Take care of your vehicle and it will take car of you especially in an emergency situation where a properly working brake system is an absolute must.

Read More

Replacement Windshields-More Than A Dollars-And-Cents Decision

Chances are it's happened to you-an errant stone cracks your windshield. Now what? Replacing a damaged windshield is more than just a dollars-and-cents decision. According to a leading windshield manufacturer, your windshield not only helps protect you and your car's occupants from the elements, it also plays a major role in your safety. Here are some important points to remember: • The windshield is a key structural element of your car. • Proper adhesive selection is critical to installation and structural integrity. • Original equipment windshields meet federal safety standards. • The visual quality of original equipment windshields is first rate-not necessarily true for knock-off versions. • Knock-off windshields may not provide the same level of UV light protection, which could lead to accelerated fading of your vehicle's upholstery and interior surfaces. The windshield engineers at Carlite® have some tips to keep in mind at windshield replacement time. Ask for an original equipment windshield and factory-quality adhesives/sealants, installed by AGRSS-certified professionals. Laws in some states require that your installer inform you when replacing your glass with a non-original part. Original equipment windshields fit best and maintain the structural integrity of your vehicle, which is critical in case of an accident. Original equipment windshields typically have better optical quality. Distortion affects the way the driver sees the road-and other cars. Windshield wipers are designed to work best with factory windshields which have designed-in curvatures. Knock-off windshields tend to have less curvature, which can result in flat spots where the wipers may skip or not clear the glass as effectively. Knock-off windshields sometimes are made with thinner glass that can allow more noise in, which is particularly irritating to owners of upscale automobiles who paid for, and expect, a quiet ride. Also, an improperly installed windshield could pop loose when the passenger air bag deploys, potentially reducing its ability to protect the passenger. So when that stone chip or crack shows up on your windshield, be sure to protect yourself, and all those who ride with you, by insisting on a brand-for-brand replacement windshield like Carlite branded windshields. It's up to you to decide which kind of replacement windshield you want.

Read More

Parti Scooters: All About ‘getting About’ In A Parti

Do you find you are spending more time in the home because you are not able to walk very far, or you are not able to walk for long periods of time? Give yourself a bit more freedom in life, and look closer at the Parti scooter where you can give yourself a bit more leeway in getting out of the house. Your Flexibility In Moving About With A Parti Scooter The Parti scooter is a scooter you can take with you where you want to go. If you are going on vacation, you can fit the Parti in the trunk, in the van or you can check it on the airlines. The Parti scooter is a scooter known for dependability and for providing users with options when considering a shopping trip or a trip where walking is involved. The Parti scooter can be taken apart and stored where you need to put it. There smaller pieces are going to weigh under 35 pounds each, so just about anyone could life them. If you don’t have a lot of help in getting around, but you can still walk a little you can assemble and disassemble the Parti scooter when you want to get out of the house and get out on the town. The Parti scooter is just less than 100 pounds, and is not considered heavy for any car. This scooter can be used both indoors and outdoors, where the flat surface will allow you to control where you want to go. One thing that many Parti users find fun and exciting is the ability to change the colors of the chair. If you are going to use the chair, for the long term, you will find changing the color of your chair is a snap with the interchanging panels on the Parti chair. What do you need to put the Parti together if you have disassembled it? You don’t need any tools to put your scooter back together again. The Parti scooter is one you can assemble in just a few minutes, without any tools, and without stress, as it takes only a few minutes (under five) to put the Parti scooter back together if you are storing it in your back seat or in your trunck.

Read More

Vacuums Your Car’s Best Friend

We’d all be lost without our vacuum cleaner, right? From the kids walking in all kinds of things to those routine spills and messes, wouldn’t our homes look terrible without that trusty tool to help us out? And while we all recognize the value of the vacuum in getting our homes spick and span, this is a multi-purpose device that shouldn’t be condemned to the confines of your home. Can you think of anywhere else that could do with a bit of a sprucing up? That’s right – your car! Though most of us probably don’t spend as much time in our car as we do in our homes, there are many of us that come close – or at least it feels that way! With the commute to work, the grocery shop trip, and picking the kids up from all kinds of events and occasions, it is little wonder that our vehicle soon begins to feel like a second home. And since we spend so much time in them, shouldn’t we invest the same time and energy into keeping them looking good as we do on the other places we spend our time? There’s little doubt that our environment has a huge impact on our wellbeing, both in terms of our physical and our emotional health. Haven’t you ever felt overwhelmed in your home when everything seems in chaos? Cluttered counters and worktops make us feel stressed, reminding us of all we haven’t done yet, and refusing to let us feel at peace. While many of us make a concerted effort to keep our homes as nicely as we deserve, it seems the other places that spend our time get just a little neglected. So it’s time to take the vacuum out and do a job on that car. With all the time we spend it there, it’s easy for the mess to build up without us even consciously noticing it. But you can be sure it has an effect. A car can be a dangerous weapon if we use it in the wrong frame of mind – and you can be sure that our ability to drive safely is impaired when there are piles of junk around our feet. While you can purchase a special vacuum just for your car, you don’t need one of these to get started. Just drag the vacuum out of the house, using an extension cord if necessary. Get rid of all those candy wrappers and dust and dirt and just wait to see it the difference it makes. Soon you will find a sense of peace in this important place, helping keep you and your family a whole lot safer.

Read More

What's Your Passion?

Okay, you've decided you want to make money with Affiliate Marketing. So, you join some affiliate programs and start submitting free ads to newsletters and free advertising classifieds sites. You're going to make BIG money now -- right? Nope! Sorry! Just sending out a few ads is not going to do it. Not if you want to be a real success. You must first determine your passion. I mean other than making the money! What is your hobby? What do you know how to do REALLY well? What is your job? Everyone has something that is their own special talent. Find yours. You probably have more than one thing that you are very interested in and do well. See if you can find five (ten if you're really ambitious). Write them down in a list. Remember, you are going to be spending a lot of time working with this subject. Make sure you enjoy it! Go down each item on your list. Start writing a rough outline of everything you know about the topic. It doesn't have to be elaborate. This is just to give you an idea of how much information is available for a given subject. Try mind mapping. Write down the main subject of your idea. Draw a circle around it. Now, start thinking of sub-categories that are related to your main category. Draw a line from your main category and end it with a circle. Put the sub-category title inside this circle. Find as many sub-categories (and sub-sub-categories) as you can. Go through each of your interests with this procedure. Choose the one that you know the most about and that you can write about comfortably. What if you "think" you don't know enough about your topic? Then, do some research. Read books and magazines. Do some searches on the Internet. Who knows? You might find an area, a niche, that is just waiting for you to fill it with useful information. There's a lot more to affiliate marketing, of course. But the first step is to find your passion. Your "passion" doesn't have to be making money on the Internet. It can be cooking, sewing, billiards, or whatever. In fact, it's better if you find a niche that isn't in the online marketing arena because that's what nearly everyone else is doing. Make your topic unique. Make it yours. And make it your passion. It will pay you well.

Read More

New Headlight Technologies Could Save More Lives

Each year, approximately 5,000 pedestrians and bicyclists are killed along U.S. roads - 2,300 of them occurring at night - and another 70,000 pedestrians are injured in traffic crashes, according to a 2003 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report. New automotive lighting technologies, including Xenon and Adaptive Front Lighting Systems, can help improve nighttime pedestrian safety, according to the Motor Vehicle Lighting Council. According to researcher Michael Flannagan of the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, drivers "overdrive" the headlights on many of today's vehicles, meaning they are going too fast to stop safely within the distance made visible by the headlights. "The critical safety need in low-beam lighting is seeing distance," Flannagan said. "The maximum safe speed with today's average low beams is only about 45 mph. Our studies indicate there is a major safety problem that headlights could address." One possible solution is Xenon headlights, also known as High Intensity Discharge or HID. Based on a gas discharge process, Xenon uses an arc instead of a filament as a light source. The result is enhanced roadway vision by increasing the light output to the sides of the road. A 2004 University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute test revealed that Xenon headlamps provided twice as much light for seeing critical objects on the road while producing 25 percent less glare. The wider beam coverage also provides better lighting on road shoulders, where pedestrians and bicyclists are commonly found. Nearly 120 vehicle models equipped with Xenon headlights were sold in North America in the 2005 model year -; up 21 percent from 2004. Another emerging headlight technology is AFS or Adaptive Front Lighting System. It provides optimal illumination in various driving conditions by automatically modifying the beam pattern of the headlights in response to various speed, weather conditions and road situations. The headlamps automatically move as the steering wheel is turned. This helps illuminate the road at an earlier stage, allowing the driver more time to adjust and steer or brake as needed.

Read More

Vehicle Extended Warranty - Protect Your Purchase

A couple weeks ago, on a Sunday morning, I was running late. My morning coffee didn’t wake me up like it should have, and I was dragging. As a result, I was going to be late for church, and as a teacher, that wasn’t going to be good! I finally got my stuff together and ran outside to my car. It was raining. As I put the key in the ignition, I knew something wasn’t right. I turned the key…nothing. The car wouldn’t start. I hoped the problem was only with the battery, so I rolled the car onto the street, pulled my wife’s car out, and jumped the battery. It worked! After church was over, I took my car to a garage, where I found out the problem was the battery, and I replaced it. But what if the problem wasn’t the battery? What if it was some kind of engine failure? The car was only five years old, but there could be an engine problem at any time. Before I found out definitively what the problem was, the only thing that ran through my mind was dollar signs—what would this cost me if it was an engine problem? It turns out I didn’t have to worried at all. When I bought the car, I could have bought a vehicle extended warranty that would have covered engine repairs (and some other things), but I was too cheap to do it. I decided to gamble on the car working properly until I wanted to get rid of it, and I got lucky that something major didn’t happen to it. What about you? Have you considered getting a vehicle extended warranty? For the small monthly cost, it would certainly give you peace-of mind. Knowing that your car was covered for repairs even that much longer will help you feel better when your car overheats in the fourth year of your vehicle extended warranty—especially if your original warranty expired after three years. Many insurance companies and dealers will offer a vehicle extended warranty. You should look into it, and get several free quotes to compare. Then, you can make the best decision you can to get a vehicle extended warranty.

Read More

The Auto Blog: Bringing Important Auto News to Auto Parts Train’s Customers

Auto Parts Train has been providing top quality aftermarket and replacement parts and accessories for over 25 years now. In all those years, Parts Train has exemplified high quality products and services. Now, Auto Parts Train provides not only best quality parts and accessories as well as fast and efficient service, it now provides relevant and useful information on all things automotive through its newest venture – The Auto Blog. Conceptualized early this year, Parts Train’s Auto Blog offers a wide array of automotive topics, news articles, car reviews, car care and maintenance articles, and informative vignettes that Parts Train customers will find interesting, helpful and relevant. Ever since Parts Train’s the Auto Blog as launched, it has discussed and talked about a huge variety of topics under several categories such as Automotive News, Car Reviews, Aftermarket Parts and Accessories, Car Care and Maintenance, Auto Parts Train News, Automotive Events, Auto Parts, Automotive Trends and Innovations and Automotive Technology. The Auto Blog has also reported a number of important news from the world’s automakers, from Acura to Volvo. Important automotive events such as the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Chicago Auto Show and the Geneva Auto Show have also been featured in the blog. The Auto Blog is just another expression of Auto Parts Train’s commitment to giving the best parts, accessories, discount deals and resources to its current and future customers. Visitors to Parts Train can freely browse through the Auto Blog’s different interesting articles ranging from straight news to commentaries and reviews. The Auto Blog is also interactive, since readers can post a comment, question, suggestion or simply add related information to a particular blog entry. Now on its fourth month, the Auto Blog is just a newbie compared to the other more established auto blogs and resources. Yet, the Auto Blog definitely provides interesting, informative articles in an appealing layout that most car owners and lovers will surely appreciate.

Read More

You Can Install A "Green" Air Filter!

All right now, no laughing. Probably the easiest part to swap out in a car is the air filter. A quick pop of the hood and the loosening of a couple of clamps or a wing nut and you simply reach in and pull out the old air filter. Next, open the box up containing your new air filter, pop it into place, secure everything and you are done. Five, maybe ten minutes to accomplish the easiest job going. So, why doesn't everyone change their own air filter? More importantly, why don't more people opt for environmentally friendly air filters, commonly known as "green" air filters? You can install a green air filter yourself and do much more than keep the air clean in the process. So, what is a "green" air filter? A green air filter is an environmentally friendly air filter. No, they aren't usually green as the color green is what signifies that the product works in harmony with nature. Now go hug a tree. Seriously, there are several advantages to owning a green or reusable air filter: Once is Enough. With a reusable air filter, you never have to buy another air filter again for your car. Periodically, all you would have to do is take the air filter out, clean it, and then reinstall it. Reusable air filters, such as an AFE air filter, are made of a washable cotton gauze material. As you probably know, cotton is one of the most durable materials on God's green earth. Save the Landfills. In many states, disposing of trash is a big problem. You can do your part by not adding to the problem. Just think about it: over the lifespan of a car you could easily add 8, 10, 15 or more air filters and boxes to the city dump. With a reusable air filter, less is actually more. Engine Runs Better. A deep pleat in a reusable air filter means better filtration: your car's engine "breathes" better with a higher quality, natural product. As you may know, an efficient engine uses less fuel too. Sure, a reusable air filter will cost you more, approximately 2-4 times the price of a throw away air filter. However, you will recoup that money over time and do your part in showing environmental responsibility. Who can put a price on all of that? Go with green and make a difference today!

Read More