The Car Park

F1 Drivers Died in Action

2007-04-01T00:03:00.000+08:00

One of the greatest and heart pounding motor sport the Formula 1.
"Tribute to the F1 Drivers Died In Action"

CARING FOR YOUR CAR’S LEATHER INTERIOR – (Part One)

2006-12-21T16:40:00.000+08:00

So you've just bought your new dream car, and look, it's got an all-leather interior. Just what the neighbours would drool for. Because hey, when it's leather, we're talking elegance here. Cars upholstered in beautiful leather automatically have an air of sophistication and fine design. Leather even smells fantastic, good enough to eat. But before you get all protective about your leather seats and forbid the kids or just about anyone else from all sorts of activities inside the car, read on about how you can care for leather the right way.The Basics about Leather

Leather is a durable, natural fabric that is four times stronger than man-made fabrics. This long-lasting fibrous material will stand up to rough treatment, even with rowdy children and pets inside the car. Stains can be cleaned effortlessly using a damp cloth. Maintenance will only entail refilling the cushions of you seats periodically to keep it looking as new as the day you bought it. After all, leather looks even better with time.
Natural leather materials are a car owner’s dream. Go ask OzFreeOnline, and you'll find that leather interiors are not just in demand right now; they are practically timeless. Needless to say, leather interiors actually up used car values.

Manufacturers can create leather car seats to suit any make of vehicle. Contrary to popular belief, leather isn't just for expensive, executive vehicles. Today, even small and used cars are getting upholstered in leather as it can be fashioned, designed, and dyed in colours to suit every taste.
Best natural leather material should be top-grain. A ‘top grain’ piece of leather should cover the seats without splits or attachments. When leather is split, it will not last as long as top grain and may require more upkeep. Top grain leather might be more expensive but it's well worth it.

LEATHER vs. CHEAP LEATHER VINYL COATED

In buying leather, you either get genuine or fake. Be careful of what you buy then as leather manufacturing has become so ingenious these days it can be difficult to pick the real thing. A quick test to determine which sort of leather you have at your hand is to use a small amount of cool clean water. If the leather repels it, it's vinyl-coated; if it absorbs the water, then you're safe.

COLOUR DYING
Take note that dyeing processes affects the quality of leather. For the richest colours and softest touch, leather is subjected to aniline process of dying in a drum. When a protective coating is added to drum dyed leather at the end, it is called semi-aniline. Hides that are pigmented are applied with dyes to the surface. This process provides the best protection, although the resulting leather loses its softness.It is always wise to inquire about the quality of the natural hide and how it was processed. Look into guarantees offered and return policies in case the upholstery is not up to standard. If you are interested in leather car upholstery--whether to repair present seat cover or to change them--there are several sites which can offer you the cheapest, yet quality worksmanship. Shop around first so you can save up.
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For the best used cars in gorgeous leather
Come to OzFreeOnline, Australia's free car classifieds. Used cars for sale have never been this great!

ESSENTIAL CAR CARE - PART FIVE

2006-11-03T17:44:00.000+08:00

OzFreeOnline.com – Classifieds is Australia’s largest free online classifieds and has the most comprehensive selection of used automobiles and cars for sale n Australia and New Zealand. Just visit our free car listings—we have hundreds of great and wise buys in used cars. Should you need finance to buy your ideal car, you can go to the Classifieds of www.ozfreeonline.com and look up the Finance section.

This week OzFreeOnline offers you suggestions for taking care of your tyres. TYRE CARE Buy a decent tyre gauge and keep it in the car. Improper tyre pressure can affect tyre wear as well as ride and handling. You should always check your tyres when they are cold. Use the manufacturers recommended tyre pressures. Tyre pressure tends to rise as you drive due to heat build-up. Manufacturers have this in mind when they set the recommended cold pressures so do not let air out when the tyre gets hot. Check the tyre again when it cools off and you will find that the pressure is back to where it was. Tyre pressure will change with the seasons, so in winter months make sure they are not under inflated. Remember; always check them when they are cold.
TYRE ROTATION On front wheel drive cars, it is especially important to rotate your tyres periodically because the front tyres wear faster than the rear. Uneven tyre tread thickness, front to rear, will give you uneven braking and poor handling, especially in the rain. If you don't rotate the tyres, you'll wind up replacing them two at the time, which means you'll always have uneven tread thickness. Replacing tyres in a matched set of four will keep the handling and braking traction of the car balanced.
If you notice a humming noise, check the rear tyres for a ‘saw-tooth’ wear pattern on the inside and outside shoulder of the tyre. You can detect this by running your hand back and forth along the edges of the tyre tread. Be careful not to cut yourself on debris or exposed steel belt wire. If it feels smooth in one direction, but jagged in the other, you may have found some of your noise. This condition happens on some front wheel drive vehicles, with tyres that have tread blocks on the shoulder of the tyre. Rotating this tyre to the other side of the car should even out this type of wear and quiet down the humming. Check your owner's manual for the proper rotation method. Most front wheel drive cars require the following rotation method:
Front wheel drive tyre rotation Warning: If you have directional tyres they must never be crossed over to the other side of the car. You can tell by the fact that they will have a clearly marked arrow on the sidewall showing the direction of rotation. If you have a matching spare, include it in the rotation.
You’ve got a car to sell? List your ad on the OzFreeOnline.com – Cars Section. It’s just so easy, and it’s FREE.

ESSENTIAL CAR CARE - PART FOUR

2006-11-03T17:37:00.000+08:00

OzFreeOnline.com – Classifieds is Australia’s largest free online classifieds and has the most comprehensive selection of used automobiles and cars for sale n Australia and New Zealand. Just visit our free car listings—we have hundreds of great and wise buys in used cars. Should you need finance to buy your ideal car, you can go to the Classifieds of www.ozfreeonline.com and look up the Finance section.

To keep your car looking good and performing well, this week OzFreeOnline offers you suggestions in changing oil in your car and checking the transmission fluid. OIL CHANGE Oil change is one of the few maintenance steps that automobile manufacturers have not found a way to eliminate yet. Regular oil changes are the best way to ensure longer engine life. If you frequently take short trips where the car doesn't always completely warm up, then oil changes are even more important because acid and moisture build-up does not have a chance to burn off.
Some new engines normally run very hot and are very hard on oil. Even missing a single oil change on these cars can cause an engine to develop sludge, which can cause engine damage in a car with as little as 15,000 kilometres on the odometer. Today's modern oils contain detergents and additives that are designed to protect against sludge formation, but if you regularly do a lot of stop-and-go driving, like rush hour driving, engine heat will eventually break down these additives so that they stop protecting your engine.
TRANSMISSION FLUID Most automatic transmissions should be checked while the engine is running. Check your owner’s manual to be sure. Also, make sure the car is on a level surface and fully warmed up. Pull the transmission dipstick out, wipe off the end, and note the markings on the end of the stick. The usual markings are ‘Full’ and ‘Add.’ Push the stick into the tube until it seats, then immediately pull it out to see the fluid level. Transmission fluid should be pink or red in colour with the look and consistency of cherry cough syrup. If the fluid is a muddy brown or has a burnt smell, have it checked by a mechanic. As with the engine, never add fluid unless it is below the ‘Add’ mark and never bring it above the ‘Full’ mark. Make sure you use the correct transmission fluid for your vehicle. If you plan to add Transmission fluid yourself, you should know that fluid usually comes in prepared sizes, but the level may not be low enough to take the full amount. In addition, you will need a special funnel to get the fluid into the small tube that the dipstick came out of. Check your owner’s manual for the type of fluid and do not substitute anything else. Any noticeable transmission oil consumption should be checked out at your service station.
We will bring you more tips next week. In the meantime remember the best source to buy a used car today is OzFreeOnline.com – Cars Section. To sell your car, you can use our free car listings – It costs you nothing!

ESSENTIAL CAR CARE – Part THREE

2006-11-03T17:27:00.000+08:00

OzFreeOnline.com – Classifieds is Australia’s largest free online classifieds and has the most comprehensive selection of used automobiles and cars for sale n Australia and New Zealand. Just visit our free car listings—we have hundreds of great and wise buys in used cars. Should you need finance to buy your ideal car, you can go to the Classifieds of www.ozfreeonline.com and look up the Finance section.

To keep your car looking good and performing well, this week OzFreeOnline offers you suggestions for taking care of the Filters and Power Steering fluid in your car. FILTERS There are a number of replaceable filters in a car. They are listed in your owner’s manual along with recommended replacement intervals. If you live in a dusty area or in a big city, then that's all the more reason for you to replace them more frequently. The following filters are common to most cars.
Air filter: used to filter the air going into an engine. This filter is usually easy to replace yourself. Fuel filter: found either in the engine compartment or near the gas tank. This filter is best left to your motor mechanic to change. Breather: works with the PCV valve to allow clean air to be drawn into the crankcase to purge moisture and acids from the engine. PCV valve: works with engine vacuum to draw fumes from the crankcase and burns them in the combustion chamber. Cabin filter: on a number of late model cars since the early ‘90s; there is a filter in your air conditioning system that cleans the air before allowing it into the passenger compartment.
These filters are usually somewhere under the dash. Your owner's manual will tell you if you have one and where it is. Check your owner's manual for any other filters requiring servicing.
POWER STEERING FLUID The power steering fluid reservoir usually has a small dipstick attached to the cap. Remove the cap and check the fluid level. The level should not change more than the normal range on the stick. If you have to add fluid more than once or twice a year, then have the system checked for leaks. These systems are easily damaged if you drive while the fluid is very low. Another warning of low power steering fluid is a buzzing noise when you turn the steering wheel at slow speeds.

We will bring you more tips next week. In the meantime remember the best source to buy a used car today is OzFreeOnline.com – Cars Section. To sell your car , just visit our free car listings – It costs you nothing!

ESSENTIAL CAR CARE - PART TWO

2006-11-03T17:23:00.000+08:00

OzFreeOnline.com – Classifieds is Australia’s largest free online classifieds and has the most comprehensive selection of used automobiles and cars for sale n Australia and New Zealand. Just visit our free car listings—we have hundreds of great and wise buys in used cars. Should you need finance to buy your ideal car, you can go to the Classifieds of www.ozfreeonline.com and look up the Finance section.
To keep your car looking good and performing well, OzFreeOnline offers you suggestions on checking the Coolant (Antifreeze) level as well as the engine oil level.

COOLANT (ANTIFREEZE) LEVEL Never open the radiator of a car that has just been running. The cooling system of a car is under high pressure with fluid that is usually hotter than boiling water. Look for the cooling system reserve tank, somewhere near the radiator. It is usually translucent white so you can see the fluid level without opening it. (Do not confuse it with the windshield washer tank). The reserve tank will have two marks on the side of it. ‘FULL HOT’ and ‘FULL COLD.’ If the level frequently goes below ‘full cold’ after adding fluid, you probably have a leak, which should be checked as soon as possible. Today's engines are much more susceptible to damage from overheating, so do not neglect this important system.
ENGINE OIL LEVEL An engine cannot run without oil; oil is what prevents serious engine damage or total destruction! To check the oil level, make sure that the engine is turned off, then find the engine oil dipstick and remove it. With a paper towel or rag, wipe off the end of the stick and notice the markings on it. You will usually see a mark for ‘Full’ and another mark for ‘Add.’
Check your owner’s manual to be sure. Push the stick back into the tube until it sets, then immediately pull it out to see the oil level. You should not add oil unless the level is below the ‘Add’ mark and NEVER add oil to bring the level above the ‘Full’ mark. Your main concern with this check is that oil consumption is not rapidly increasing. If it is, take your car to a repair shop as soon as possible and have it checked out. It is acceptable for the oil to be dark as long as you change it at the recommended intervals. However, it should never be foamy and should never have a strong petrol smell. If either of these conditions exists, have it checked out soon.
We will bring you more tips next week. In the meantime remember the best source to buy a used car today is from the OzFreeOnline.com – Cars Section. To sell your car, you can use our free car listings – We promise: it costs you nothing.

ESSENTIAL CAR CARE - PART ONE

2006-10-21T20:18:00.000+08:00

ESSENTIAL CAR CARE - PART ONE

To keep your car looking good and performing well, OzFreeOnline offers some simple guidelines that will give you all the information you need to know. Each week we will offer you some excellent suggestions in taking optimum care of your car.

UNDER THE BONNET

Do you know your way around under the hood of your car? While not as critical as it used to be, periodically checking under the hood can head off problems before they become costly. Today, with self-service gas stations everywhere, often the only way you will get it done is for you to do it yourself.

Start by reading your car owner’s manual. There will always be a section on under bonnet checks. A word about safety though: read the safety warnings in your owner’s manual and any safety warning stickers under the hood. Also, it's advisable that you keep a pair of old gloves and a roll of paper towels in the boot.

If the engine has been running for any length of time, there are areas under the hood that can be very hot. Except for checking transmission fluid level, all checks should be done while the engine is turned off. If the engine is running, do not put your hands near any belts or fans.

BATTERY

Most batteries today are "maintenance free", which simply means that you can't check the water level. This doesn't mean however, that there is nothing to check. The main things to check are the top of the battery, which should be clean and dry, and the terminal connections, which should be clean and tight. If the top of the battery continuously becomes damp or corroded soon after cleaning, then have the charging system and battery checked by your mechanic.

Happy motoring – and remember the best source to buy a used car today is OzFreeOnline.com – Cars Section. To sell your car, you can use our free car listings – We promise, it'll cost you nothing.

We’ll have more tips for caring for your car next week.

How to Love Your Car Without Your Wife Getting Jealous

2006-09-12T16:02:00.000+08:00

First things first: Cars don't intentionally inspire jealousy in wives. They can't help it if they're shiny, sleek, has amazing torque, and lots of horsepower. But we know cars can be very demanding too. They don't necessarily want pampering, but they'd like it if you'd give them attention on a regular basis. The trick is not to spend more time loving your car than you do loving your wife.

Tell your wife, you just have to read your car's owner's manual because it's your best guide to maintaining the car in tip-top shape. She might frown, but she'll give in. It's just a manual after all. Next, tell your wife, you just have to follow the maintenance schedule. And by God, do follow it. Also, make sure you keep the maintenance records. Your wife will let out a disapproving grunt at this, what with the costs, but she'll give in eventually.

Next, inform your wife that from now on you will have to 1. regularly inspect your car's emission control system, 2. use a high-quality gas cap, 3. always keep tires properly inflated, 4. check belts and hoses, 5. check the air conditioning system for leaks, 6. regularly change fuel filters and air filters, 7.change oil and oil filters as scheduled, 8. always check oil, transmission fluid, and radiator coolant, and 9. replace the PCV valve and breather elements as needed. By the time you’re done, you would have been too busy to notice your wife packing her bag, ready to leave you. Anyway, she's left a post-it on the fridge telling you to just reheat leftover for dinner.

Here comes your redemption. Tell your wife, all the things you've been doing for the car is for her as well. Not only are you prolonging your car's life and maintaining its peak performance and market value, not only are cutting down on would-be expensive car repair bills, not only are you saving the environment from pollution--not only these-but you are also loving her and the kids, and want only the best. After all, a well-taken car IS a safe car to ride.

She might not probably believe you, but don't just stand there and let her get out of the door. Take your wife for a ride out of town, or to somewhere nice and special. Like the place where you first met. She'll love you again, and hopefully your car too.

Neoli write articles and press releases for http://www.ozfreeonline.com - this piece he made served as an article exclusive for http://cars.ozfreeonline.com - which offers buy or sell used cars, motorcycles, trucks vans and other vehicles. Oz Free Cars also provides free car listings

Braking Moments – Maintenance and some driving tips

2006-07-14T18:20:00.000+08:00

The brakes are used to slow down or stop the car. This is one of the most important parts of the car. Any brake failures can cause accident which may lead to serious property damage. A proper maintenance of the brakes is a must to avoid any accidents.

Everyday before using your car it is important to check your brakes especially the level of the fluid. It is necessary to clean your brakes weekly and check also the brake pads if they are still in good condition. Try also checking those hoses and other linings of your brakes for leaks. When driving always bring a bottle of brake fluid just in case of emergency and try to check your gauge panel to see if the brake warning light is lit. Always test your brakes when driving once in a while.

The first thing to consider while driving especially at high speed is your brakes; since brakes are mechanical it is prone to any failures especially when it is not maintained. If everything is too complicated especially brake repairs or adjustments try consulting your trusted mechanic to fix those problems, these may prevent you from spending too much for repairs.

If your brakes are malfunctioning like sudden loss of pressure on the pedal while driving, try to pull over and don’t hesitate to continue driving, try to pull your parking brake slowly; this may help reduce the speed of the vehicle. Use engine brake to slow you down. It may damage the gears in the transmission but you’re safe. Never turn off your engine instead try to pump the pedal because it might build some pressure. If you don’t have any choice try to hit the bushes or sacrifice your vehicle by letting the side of the vehicle hit the wall to stop.

Alvin D. Agomaa For Free Classifieds online visit Oz Free Cars
July 14, 2006

The Gears – A Small Overview of the Automotive Transmission

2006-06-06T19:19:00.000+08:00

The transmission is an automotive part where the power is transferred from the engine to a driving axle making the car move. Sometimes it is also known as the gear box because set of gears are found inside the transmission.

The manual transmission is commonly used by car manufacturers and it has various numbers of forward gears and one reverse gear, it is usually comes in “H” pattern. The driver can select any gear depending on the speed of the car. In order to select a gear the driver must step on the clutch pedal to disengage the clutch disk from the engine and release the pedal after selecting the desired gear.

Unlike the manual transmission, the automatic transmission doesn’t need and doesn’t have a clutch pedal to disengage the clutch disk when shifting gear. The automatic transmission shifts gear automatically and makes the car much easier to drive. Usually automatic transmissions have several selections such as the “P” for Park, "N” for Neutral, “D” for Drive, “R” for Reverse and “L” for Low. The overdrive button at the automatic transmission lever is used to maximize the output when driving at high speed. Most of the modern automatic transmission has the CVT (continuously variable transmission); it is different from the traditional automatic transmission because CVT uses pulley and belt instead of the gears.

The sequential transmission or semi automatic transmission doesn’t have any “H” pattern like the manual transmission because the movement of the lever is in two directions only. Through the help of CPU and electronic sensors installed in the car the clutch itself is controlled which synchronizes the timing and torque needed to make gear shifts fast and smooth. .

Some transmission have a so called dual clutch, it uses two clutches but has no clutch pedal. The advanced electronics and hydraulics control the clutches just like the standard automatic transmission. The two clutches work independent, the first clutch controls the odd gears (first, third, fifth and reverse), while the second controls the even gears (second, fourth and sixth).

Alvin D. Agomaa

For Free Classifieds online visit Oz Free Cars

June 6, 2006

Car Gazing #005: Lamborghini Gallardo

2006-05-19T15:59:00.000+08:00

Lamborghini Gallardo

(+) The Gallardo oozes supercar cool and has the performance and handling to back it up. It’s also useable everyday and is a sound financial bet.
(-) There’s very little luggage space and it has the running costs to go with the supercar tag.

ON THE ROAD

Performance
The Gallardo’s 5.0-litre V10 engine produces a whopping 492bhp, which propels this supercar from rest to 60mph in just 4.2sec. Acceleration in any gear is astonishing, and the sound is something to savour, too. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard. It’s a better choice than the optional clutchless manual ’box that is operated using paddle shifts on the steering wheel.

Ride & handling
The Gallardo handles brilliantly with virtually no body lean and soaks up any lumps and bumps – helped by standard four-wheel drive. This composure makes for surprising comfort on long trips and gives supreme confidence when cornering hard.

Refinement
The Gallardo is surprisingly refined for a supercar. Those fat tyres pick up some road roar, but even at motorway speeds it’s not tiresome. Use the engine sparingly and it’s not obtrusive, but push it hard and there’s instantly a howl to tingle the spine.

OWNERSHIP

Buying & owning
Despite its high cost, there are people queuing up to buy a Gallardo, which will keep used values very strong. Running costs will not be cheap, especially as it manages just 14.5mpg on the combined cycle – and even less if you make use of the car’s full performance.

Quality & reliability
Forget the creaky cabins of older Lamborghinis: the latest examples are built with an eye firmly on quality construction, and the Gallardo is no exception. Audi’s influence is very clear here and we expect this to carry through to the mechanical components, although the car will need regular and expensive servicing.

Safety & security
The Gallardo comes with twin front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes and an electronic stability programme. This last safety feature can be altered to allow more driver involvement and control. Remote central locking is standard, but buyers must pay extra for anti-theft and satellite tracking systems.

IN THE CABIN

Behind the wheel
Audi now owns Lamborghini and its influence is evident in the cabin. The centre console is shared with the A3 hatch, but it nevertheless blends in well with the rest of the Gallardo’s good-looking cabin. There’s decent headroom, plenty of movement for the driver’s seat and a steering wheel that adjusts for height and reach.

Space & practicality
If you want practicality, a supercar is not the best choice. However, the Gallardo provides decent cabin space for its two occupants and is also easier to thread through traffic than a Ferrari 360. The downside is that rear visibility is limited and it’s hard to judge where the car’s nose ends. As for the boot, learn to travel light.

Equipment
As you would expect of a car costing well over a hundred grand, the Gallardo is well equipped. It comes with climate control, leather seats and a CD player. After that, buyers can spend many thousands by ticking an options list that includes such luxuries as fitted luggage, satellite-navigation and even a transparent engine cover.

source: www.whatcar.com

Finding Classic Auto Parts

2006-05-08T14:59:00.000+08:00

If you finally got the classic car of your dream, finding the car parts for it is will be a hard task. Classic car parts are hard to come by because they are no longer in production, they don’t make the parts for them anymore. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be found.

One place to start looking would be online auction sites. For example, Ebay might be the easiest place to start. Ebay motors have a wide range of classic car parts, so it’s possible you might find what you are looking for.

You might also want to check out local swap meets, they are a good way to find classic car parts you’re looking. You can locate older model accessories and other outdated items.

As a last resort you can always check out car part dealer magazines. The problem with that would be the fact that you probably have to pay more money, but if you do indeed find the part you’re looking for it might be worth it.

But if it you wish to look further you can always check out clubs and organizations. More then likely many clubs and organizations are geared toward cars, or classic cars.

You could check out the internet. It seems today that theirs nothing you can’t find on the internet. You can search and find clubs you can join; it’s a good idea to search on yahoo.

If you are really desperate you can also go to the junkyard. Though it will be like looking for a needle in a hay stack, but it’s worth a shot. You can either visit or phone to see if they have the part.

But the more you take care of your car the less you’ll need to go running around looking for parts, and the more you actually enjoy your car.

About The Author
Jenna Simpson is a successful freelance author that writes regularly for http://www.garage-plans-n-kits.com/. Her articles have also been featured on related sites such as http://www.carparttips.info/ and http://www.coolingsystemsguide.info/.

Taking Good Care Of Your Precious Car

2006-03-24T19:32:00.000+08:00

Maintenance is one of the most serious tasks as a car owner. It determines the performance and durability of the vehicle you drive. Checking your vehicle includes more than taking care of its external paint job and keeping it shiny.

This means taking care of all the parts, even under the hood. These are the ones that concern the performance of your vehicle. To have a good idea about the vehicle's routine maintenance is to go through the owner's manual. A little knowledge about mechanics may help you to maintain your vehicle. Some most important things to be checked regularly are the engine, electrical system, brake system and the tires.

The Engine

The engine is the one that makes the car move. Proper maintenance is a must to obtain a smooth run, less fuel consumption and extend the life of the engine. In this area it is necessary to check if there’s a leak in your engine, worn out fan belts, dirty spark plug and the air filter. You may also include checking the transmission fluid level, power steering fluid level and coolant level.

The Brakes

The life of the driver depends on the brake, it is necessary to check your brake system from the lines, brake fluid level, handbrake cables and the brake pads. While driving always check the pressure build by the brakes, because sometimes it is unexpected that brakes would fail while you’re on the road.

The Tires

The tire wears especially when the car is used every day. It is necessary to check the tire pressure and the thread of the tires, do not forget to also check the condition of the spare tire. Any foreign object from the road may puncture the tires such as nails and other pointed object so always check for those things.

The Electrical System

This would include the bulbs of the car’s headlight, parking lights, fuses, and the battery terminals and its connection. Sometimes the cars don’t run because the problem is not in the engine but in the electrical system. Be careful when checking especially the battery terminals because of some hazardous element such as acid deposits.

The screws and bolts must be checked if they are still in good condition or tightened well. Also check the wiper blades if the rubber blades need to be replaced to avoid damaging your windshield. Visiting your most trusted mechanic or any quality service station is not a bad idea, besides they have all the tools and expert mechanics to fix any car problem.

The car can be maintained while driving; a proper driving style may help to maintain the car. A poor driving style can wreck the car anytime like over revving the engine etc. No matter how much time and money you spend just to check your car’s engine and other parts everyday for maintenance, with a poor driving style this can be meaningless.

Author:

Alvin D. Agomaa - For free car classified listings visit Oz Free Cars For Sale

Finding Cheap Auto Parts

2006-03-20T15:57:00.000+08:00

Running a car can be an expensive business these days, especially with the continually rising cost of petrol/gas. The last thing that most car owners need is the added expense of replacing worn out parts. The majority of people rely on their local auto shop to find the parts, and then fit them. There is a far cheaper way, and that is to source your own parts from an auto salvage yard.

Auto salvage yards, as their name suggests, specialise in salvaging autos, or more specifically auto parts. The way that they work is simple; they take junk cars and strip them down, keeping any parts that are still in working order. These parts are then sold to anyone who wants to buy them at a much lower price than a new part would be. You could find the part that you are looking for, and save yourself a lot of money. Of course, it would be ideal if you could fit the part on your car yourself, but just buying the part from an auto salvage yard can save you a considerable amount even if you have to pay a mechanic to fit it.

The key to buying from an auto salvage yard is to spend a lot of time looking for the part that you need. There may be a lot, or a little, but you should always shop around to find the best part for you. Some auto salvage yards will recondition parts, while others will simply sell them ‘as seen’. If you don’t know much about cars it is a good idea to take a friend with you who does. The last thing you want to do is to buy a part from an auto salvage yard and think that you have found a bargain, but then find that it isn’t the right part for your car or not in working order.

The other way that you can use an auto salvage yard is to actually sell them your scrap car. All cars eventually reach the end of their working life, but you may find that you might get a little money from a salvage yard for your rusting hulk. At the end of the day, that’s better than nothing. Be prepared to negotiate a price and don’t take the first offer that they make you.

About The Author
John Rivers is editor of Car Auction Plaza. Get information on finding the car of your dreams for the price of your dreams. http://www.carauctionplaza.info.

Motorcycle Vs. Car - Myth or Madness

2006-03-17T17:32:00.000+08:00

Motorcycle riders often get an unjustified reputation as being reckless, risk takers, and that they generally disobey traffic laws. This perception is unfounded and there are many statistics that back up the fact that most motorcycle accidents are not the fault of the motorcycle rider, but that of another driver.

A major study conducted by the University of Southern California (USC) found that approximately three-fourths of motorcycle accidents involved a collision with another vehicle, usually a passenger automobile. It was also found that in the multiple vehicle accidents, the driver of the other vehicle violated the motorcycle right-of-way and caused the accident in two-thirds of those accidents. Further the study by USC found that the failure of motorists to detect and recognize motorcycles in traffic is the predominating cause of motorcycle accidents. The driver of the other vehicle involved in collision with the motorcycle did not see the motorcycle before the collision, or did not see the motorcycle until too late to avoid the collision.

These findings go to show that the motorcycle rider has unjustly received a bad reputation from the general public as well as from insurance companies that cover motorcycle riders. Motorcycles are inherently prone to accidents caused by other drivers because of their small size. Motorcycles easily fit into the blind spot of typical passenger automobiles. The truth is that most motorcycle riders are very good drivers and keep an eye out for motorists who do not see them. This awareness of other drivers however does not prevent all accidents.

When accidents such as these happen, the insurance company of the driver who is at fault will go to great lengths to keep from giving the motorcycle rider the money he or she deserves. Insurance companies will frequently rush the victim to make a quick settlement as a way to save money. Most people in the general public are not insurance experts and do not know if they are getting a bad deal from the insurance company or not. When a check is stuck in front of them it can be quite tempting to sign.

Taking the insurance companies first offer is usually a mistake. Other times the insurance company of the other driver will try to not pay at all for the accident and resulting injuries. They often try to make it appear that the motorcycle rider was at fault in the accident. It is not hard to convince a jury of this since motorcycle riders have this unjust reputation of being less than careful.

This is why it is critically important to have a qualified and competent lawyer on your side if you find yourself the victim of a motorcycle accident. A qualified lawyer will help make sure that you get the settlement that you deserve; a settlement that will cover your medical bills as well as paying for the damage to your motorcycle. Not having a lawyer to stand up for you will cost you more than just money, it will also cause you a great deal of headaches and heartache. Trying to fight an insurance company on your own, while at the same time dealing with physical injuries can be an overwhelming task.

A qualified lawyer is the only one who will be on your side in case of an accident. A lawyer works for you and only you. The insurance company works for their shareholders and will try very hard to keep from getting you the money that you deserve.

About The Author:
Landon Prescott writes on topics related to insurance and health.

For over 30 years the motorcycle lawyers at Michael H. Silvers, A Law Corporation, have successfully represented injured motorcycle riders with a 98.6% success rate. Motorcycle accident law is a very specialized area of law that requires the experience and expertise of a motorcycle lawyer, with a proven track record. Michael H. Silvers, A Law Corporation has 24 convenient locations in California. http://www.michaelhsilvers.com/.

Defensive Driving: The Basics

2006-02-28T21:09:00.000+08:00

It is a fact that though drives can control most of their actions most of the time, they are totally powerless when it comes to the actions of others drivers. They simply do not know what other drivers on the road are going tot do. This is why it is very important for drivers to learn the special skill called defensive driving. So if you want to protect yourself and your loved ones from accident, then it is highly advisable that you take defensive driving courses. Such classes offer a wealth of information when it comes to preventing or fixing road mishaps.

What is defensive driving? Simply put, it is a way of driving where the driver takes every possible precautionary measure in order to prevent accidents or untoward incidents from occurring. Defensive driving is probably the best way to ensure the safety of a driver and his or her passengers,

Below are some of the basics of defensive driving:

Be ready with every possible situation that might happen on the roads. Constant preparedness is probably the best trait of a very good defensive driver. Before driving your car make it a habit to check the tire pressure, and the water, oil and gas levels. It is also important to check the lights and mirrors. It is also wise to make sure that you have all the necessary documents pertaining to your car with you before leaving.

Avoid showing road rage. You should also, as much as possible, avoid other drivers showing signs of road rage. Don’t react to the anger of other motorists. Always keep your head cool.

The color of your car is very important in defensive driving. You are in a better position if your car is brightly colored. Advantageous colors in defensive are red, orange, yellow or other brightly colored. Because they are easily seen, bright colored cars are les likely to get involved in an accident.

Remember to always use your headlight while night driving. It is very stupid, not to mention illegal, to drive without the headlights on at night.

Always follow the three second rule of driving. According to this rule, a driver must always be at least three seconds of driving time from the driver in front in all conditions. Drivers should be five second behind the driver in front during bad conditions.

Never follow a vehicle, especially big trucks and busses too closely. By doing so, driver swill be sure to have perfect visibility.

Always avoid being in the blind side of other drivers. If an accident happens, It is pretty sure that you certainly cannot blame the other party for what has happened.

As much as possible, drive with a companion. This will ensure hat someone will be there with you in case something happens.

While on the road, avoid getting close to cars that are broken down or has damages. These cars are most likely run by irresponsible drivers. You can bet that they are not defensive drivers.

The above are just the basics of defensive driving. To know more about defensive driving and how it can save you money, your car and even your life, then consider enrolling in a defensive driving school soon.

These are only a few of the defensive driving rules that are out there. You will find a wide range of them as well as places to take defensive driving classes on the web.

About The Author
Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides defensive driving resources on http://www.aboutdefensivedriving.info.

Young Drivers Out On The Road Alone

2006-02-25T20:42:00.000+08:00

Driving alone can be very scary for some, especially inexperienced young drivers. Car insurance can compensate us for many road accident eventualities but being attacked when out in the car alone can be a terrifying, life changing ordeal that many do not fully recover from.

If you’ve ever had that feeling that another car is following you through a long, dark country lane or been nervous about venturing across a multi storey car park unaccompanied at night then read on for some advice of how to deal with these unpleasant situations.

A road trip action plan for young drivers

Plan your journey – go online and plan your journey or sit down with a map and road atlas to work out your route. GPS satellite navigation systems are also very useful, although a bit pricey, but you may be lucky enough to already have one installed in your car.

Get breakdown cover - many motor insurance companies will offer this service for a small fee. It provides peace of mind that in the event that you breakdown all alone in the middle of nowhere on a cold, dark blustery night someone will be along very soon to help.

Rest breaks – it is advisable to take breaks from driving when travelling long distances. If travelling alone make sure that you stop at respectable looking service stations and ensure that there are plenty of other people around. If you feel uneasy about entering an unfamiliar public toilet alone then alert a member of staff that you are going into the toilet so that they can send for assistance if you are a long time returning.

Keep in contact - arrange to text your friend or call your mum when you arrive at your destination so that they know you are safe and sound.

Useful things for young drivers to keep in their car

Mobile phone and in car charger

List of emergency phone numbers

Map and atlas to save having to stop and ask for directions

Coins for parking meters and tolls to save having to ask a stranger for change

The car's handbook in case of a breakdown

Bright, heavy duty torch (with spare batteries)

First aid kit in case of injury

Car insurance details in case you need to pass them on following a road accident

Safer parking for young drivers

When parking in a dark or unfamiliar place make sure that you exert extra caution:

Always try to park on the ground floor of a multi-storey car park so you can get to your car quickly

Park as near to the pedestrian exit as possible away from bushes or bins that an attacker could hide behind

Park near a street lamp at night so that you and your car are visible

Always try to reverse park, it is easier to make a quick get away if you feel under threat

Have a friend walk you back to your car if you are wary

Have your keys ready to open up and get in quick when you reach your car

Look through the windows and check for anything suspicious before getting in your car

If approached by a shifty looking stranger then lock yourself in and blast the horn until they retreat

Advice for young drivers that are being followed

Being followed is a terrifying ordeal but adhering to the following advice will be very useful:

Don’t panic as this could affect your driving and cause an accident

Remember that you are inside your car and nobody can touch you

Drive around a roundabout a few times to try and deter them

Drive to a police station or a service station where there are plenty of people

Stay in the car and draw attention to yourself by tooting your horn and flashing your headlights

If you are lost call the police or a friend and look for landmarks so that they can work out where you are

Always avoid pulling over but if another driver needs your assistance then pull over in a well lit, public place. Also, if you do break down, even if sure that you can trust people recommended by your car insurance company, ask the breakdown services for I.D before stepping out of your vehicle.

So for young drivers braving the roads alone it is essential to be extremely safety conscious in the rare event of a nasty incident occurring. For your own peace of mind follow our advice ensuring that you plan your journey thoroughly, keep handy items in your car while travelling, be cautious when parking in an unfamiliar place, and take care when you suspect you are being followed. This advice aims to increase your personal security as well as help you avoid the risk of having a road accident which has many potential costs such as causing serious personal injuries and increasing your young driver car insurance rates.

About The Author
Katy Lassetter, Hoot Car Insurance Services http://www.hootcarinsurance.co.uk.
Hoot Car Insurance Services are specialists in providing fantastically cheap young driver car insurance. For a free quote in matter seconds just call 0808 144 9954 or go to http://www.hootcarinsurance.co.uk.

Car Gazing #004: Porsche Boxster

2006-02-22T21:18:00.000+08:00

Porsche Boxster

(+) The new Boxster offers an even more impressive experience at the wheel with faster responses and improved refinement. The cabin has more standard equipment while boot space has also grown.
(-) Not much. Styling may not set the new Boxster apart from its predecessor enough for some. Cabin design also a little unexciting.

ON THE ROAD

Performance
The 240bhp 2.7-litre and 276bhp 3.2-litre S are responsive engines with sparkling performance. There’s plenty of pulling power for fast acceleration, while the manual ’boxes have a shorter throw than those in the old Boxster. The standard car offers decent poke but the S version has an extra 36bhp and for many it will be worth the extra outlay.

Ride & handling
Variable steering response provides low-speed manoeuvrability without affecting high-speed stability, but feedback is still peerless. Near-perfect balance and a wider track give fabulous poise and grip on all roads. Optional Active Suspension Management improves handling to the ride’s cost.

Refinement
An extra layer and new materials for the reshaped roof mean the cabin is far more isolated from wind noise, even at very high autobahn speeds. The Boxster can’t quite match the steel-roofed Mercedes SLK when the cabin is covered. The optional windbreak cuts back on buffeting in alfresco mode.

OWNERSHIP

Buying & owning
Discounts are highly unlikely, but strong residuals should take the sting out of that – expect more than 70% of the purchase price back if you sell after three years. Fuel economy sits between the most costly Mercedes SLK and BMW’s more frugal Z4.

Quality & reliability
The materials used are of high quality, feel robust and are well put together. We found no squeaks or rattles in any part of the cabin. The Boxster should provide years of hassle-free motoring.

Safety & security
Front and side airbags are joined by extra head airbags deployed from the door – a first for the roadster market. Powerful anti-lock brakes, now ventilated and cross-drilled on every model, offer strong, predictable stopping ability. Electronic stability control is fitted to every model. An alarm and deadlocks are fitted as standard, but like any soft-top the Boxster will be vulnerable to thieves.

IN THE CABIN

Behind the wheel
The steering wheel adjusts for rake as well as reach, while the seats travel further back to offer more room for taller drivers. Some switches and displays are obscured by the wheel, but most are sensibly placed and easy to use. The heater is more powerful than that in the old Boxster.

Space & practicality
The Boxster continues to lead the prestige roadster pack with 280 litres of boot space split into two compartments, both offering very usable room. The spare wheel is replaced by a repair kit to provide increased boot space. The roof doesn’t encroach on the luggage area when folded away, a process which takes just 12 seconds and can now be done at speeds of up to 31mph. Cabin stowage is not so great.

Equipment
Climate control, electric windows and a CD player are standard, and alloy wheels are 17-inch designs on the Boxster and 18-inch on the S. Optional extras include heated and leather covered seats, satellite-navigation, a hard top and ceramic brakes which are an eye-watering £5349.

source: www.whatcar.com

Save Money On Gas

2006-02-20T17:06:00.000+08:00

You can easily pay 25 to 50 cents less per gallon of fuel, reduce your maintenance costs, have an impact on the environment, and help reduce our dependency on oil producing countries.

1. PRE - TRIP.

When approaching your vehicle you can spot numerous things just by looking.

Any drips on the ground? How about the tires? Any large cracks in the rubber, is the tread separating from the sidewall of the tire?

Every 2 or 3 weeks check your air pressure. Low pressure can decrease mileage and life of the tire by as much as 15%, not to mention throwing alignment off. This should be done before driving, when tires are still cool and it's best to go by the car manufacturers recommendation listed on the end of the door. Look for even tread wear, uneven wear usually is over or underinflation or out of alignment. Stick a penny between the grooves - if the tread doesn't reach Lincolns head go and buy tires.

2. GENERAL MAINTENANCE

Do you lack knowledge of how to twist your belts around looking for cracks on the inside, how to check your air filter, or even oil? I could show you how easy it is in less than five minutes so don't be afraid to ask someone you know, it really isn't a big deal - just beyond the scope of this article. If no one can show you, visit my site and contact me. An air filter that needs replacing can cut mileage by 10%; clogged fuel injectors or bad plugs can be over twice that much.

3. FUELING

Resist the urge to 'top it off', finish fueling when the pump shuts off automatically, gas will slosh out. Do replace the filler cap if it's loose as gas does evaporate. Your local gas stations pumps measure the flow by volume so the best time to fill up is early in the morning when fuel will be the coolest. When you fill up simply add the product shown on my website, it?s dirt cheap,dramatically reduces emmisions and cleans out your fuel system while giving you an increase in fuel mileage of up to 35%.

4. DRIVING HABITS

You're driving habits can save so much fuel that most medium to large size trucking companies give a fuel mileage bonus. Practice defensive driving, stay aware of the road situation waay up ahead as well as right next to you, and behind you. Anticipate changes in traffic; entering, exiting, turning traffic, etc. Leave a comfortable gap between you and others allowing you to smoothly change lanes without touching the brakes. Staying aware of the big picture helps a lot, and will keep your stress level down. In town try to go with the flow of the timed lights.

Stopping and starting also has quite an effect on mileage. Instead of pushing you?re foot down, apply pressure. Let off the gas before the brake is necessary, you should be able to come to a stop applying a consistent pressure, not having to stomp down right before a stop sign.

Avoid idling when possible and remember, toady?s cars don?t need to ?warm up?.

5. AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATERS.

Your air conditioner needs horsepower from the engine to operate, using more fuel. In hot weather a good foldable windshield protector is a worthwhile investment. Also look for shady parking spaces. When returning to a hot car roll down the windows to allow the heated air to escape, then turn on the ac, running at medium instead of full blast. The air will be cooler and your engine won?t have to work as hard. The same principle applies in the winter, it doesn?t help to run the heat at full blast. Some cars defrost runs off the ac motor so use only the heater if defrosting isn?t necessary.

About The Author
Charlie Bulow began driving professionally at the age of 17 and has recently retired from driving big trucks(now 50ish). Charlie strongly believes we can reduce our dependency on oil and has begun working with a new company called BioPerformance which helps achieve that goal. His website is: http://www.gasprofits.com/savesfuel/

Understanding the Drive Layouts

2006-02-13T20:04:00.000+08:00

The drive layout is the arrangement of the engine, transmission, and driven axles. The types of drive layouts are Front engine Front wheel drive (FF/ FWD), Front engine Rear wheel drive (FR/RWD), Mid engine Rear wheel drive(MR), Rear engine Rear wheel drive(RR), Four wheel drive (4WD or 4x4) and the All Wheel Drive(AWD). Each of these layouts has their own performance, advantages and disadvantages.

Front engine Front wheel drive (FF/FWD) – The Engine and the two driven axles are placed in front, where the power from the engine is transferred straight to the front wheels. This layout increases the interior space especially in small cars because there is no central tunnel needed for the driveshaft. FF layout has advantage when it comes on low grip surfaces, and its tendency to understeer reduces the risk of losing control. The disadvantage is the load placed on the front tires. The front tires must transfer all acceleration, steering, cornering, and braking forces to the road. This kind of tasks gives a lot of stress in front tires which may lead to wear and tear, while the rear tires have very little load on them.

Front engine Rear wheel drive (FR/ RWD) - This is the complement of FF layout, where the engine is placed longitudinally at the front but the two driven axles are placed at the rear connected through the driveshaft. With this kind of layout, installation of more powerful engine such as V8, V10 and V12 is not a problem. Since the FR has a driveshaft, central tunnel is present in this layout a little interior space is sacrificed. All of the disadvantages of the FF layout are the advantages of FR layout.

Mid Engine Rear wheel drive (MR) – The drive layout that consumes a lot of interior space of the car especially the seating capacity, the engine is placed in the middle of the chassis and the driven axles are at the rear. Although it has more weight at the rear, entering a corner makes it more difficult because the front tires have less traction resulting to understeer and since the rear is heavy, the car tends to oversteer when exiting a corner. This kind of layout is commonly used in racing cars and sports cars because of weight distribution focused in the center of the car.

Rear engine Rear wheel drive (RR) - This layout places both engine and the driven axle at the rear of the vehicle, even though the rear wheels benefit from the additional grip due to the added weight given by the engine, the front wheels still need grip in order to steer the car effectively. That’s why RR layout car can also be prone to understeer.

Four Wheel Drive (4WD or 4X4) / All Wheel Drive (AWD) – It is a term usually used to describe a car where the four wheels receive power from the engine simultaneously. This can be found in an off-road vehicle. A well distributed power to the four wheels improves the grip of the vehicle. The terms 4WD and 4X4 are used in jeeps and other off-road vehicles that require the driver to switch from 2WD used in street driving (two wheel drive) to 4WD to improve the grip depending on the road condition like mud, snow, etc. and it has a high and low gear selection. The AWD term was invented to identify the vehicle capable of driving all the wheels on any road condition without selecting high and low gear selection because the power is distributed on all the wheels. Unlike the 4WD with gear selection, you don’t have to select the appropriate gear to match the road condition. Most of the modern cars use AWD system for more traction and better handling.

Author:
Alvin D. Agomaa - For free car classified listings visit Oz Free Cars for Sale

How to Help Prevent Your Car From Being Stolen

2006-02-09T09:37:00.000+08:00

Has this ever happened to you? You're ready to leave, grab your things, lock your house and go to your car. It's GONE! Someone stole it! Panic, frustration, rage, fear, helplessness all crash into your brain at one time. What did you do wrong, why did this happen to you?

Well, unfortunately, it seems that in the United States, a vehicle is stolen approximately every 30 seconds. That's 120 cars an hour or 2,880 cars in a single day. Not a comforting statistic. Recovery statistics are just as bleak, around 50% recovered successfully. What does recovered successfully mean? No major damage to the vehicle when it's found. Unsuccessfully recovered means the police found your car, but it's been stripped and basically is nothing but a shell.

It is completely up to the vehicle owner to take steps to prevent auto theft. There is a wide range of products to help prevent car theft, with just as wide a range of cost. However, as an owner, there are steps, some simple, and some complex that you can take to help keep you from being part of the above statistics. Let's start with the simple steps.

Lock Your Car! The most basic step of all, and yet people don't do this. Lock it when you leave it, and lock the doors when you are in the car. Your door doesn't easily open when it's locked. A car jacker can't open the door and pull you out if the door is locked.

Keep your spare key somewhere other than hidden on your car. There are only so many places you could hide that spare key and the thieves know them all.

Never, ever, leave your car running without you in it, even if you lock those doors. An unattended, running car is an engraved invitation to a car thief. You think you will only leave the vehicle alone for a few minutes. Right. In 2 minutes 4 cars are stolen.

Be as choosy as you can when you park your car. Well lighted areas are always best. Turn your wheels toward the curb on the street, or to the side in parking lots and driveways. Sure, you'll have to spend a few more moments to straighten the wheel when you leave, but it's worth the time if you still have your car. If you have rear wheel drive, back into your driveway, front wheel drive, head in parking. This will reduce the chance of your car being towed while stolen (yes, the thieves use tow trucks!)

If you are parking in an attended lot, you might be a little safer, but to safeguard yourself, only give the door/ignition key to the attendant. Whenever possible, make sure your door/ignition key and the trunk key are different. At the very least, you'll know that the person you gave your keys too won't be able to get into your trunk.

Close all your windows. Hot days make this a terrible option, but really, an open window is another invitation and I'd rather have a hot interior in my car than not have my car. Most cars have air conditioning, and if not, you can open the windows while driving.

Do not keep the title or registration documents in your car. Thieves can use these to sell your car after it's stolen! Carry the documents with you on your person (purse, wallet, etc.)

If you have removable face plates for your stereo equipment, remove it when you leave the vehicle! If you can't carry it, lock it in the trunk.

Don't leave valuables in your car where everyone can see them. Even if all you have is a small blanket to cover up your shopping bags, if a thief can't see what's in your car, he might not be tempted.

If you have a garage, use it. Lock not only your car, but your garage as well. A car thief may know a burglar and pass along the info that you don't lock your garage.

Lastly, get educated about vehicle theft prevention products. From alarms to kill switches to the simple "Club" device, there are many different products to choose from. Some states participate in a national voluntary motor vehicle theft prevention program called "The Watch Your Car Program." Check with your local law enforcement department.

Yes, thieves will figure out how to bypass many theft prevention devices, but most of them will pass up a "protected" vehicle for an unprotected one. Don't make the thief's attempt easy.

Steven Anderson is the Reservations Manager for Hawaiian Discount Car Rentals, now offering Maui car rentals. He has personally researched and experienced many of the Hawaiian activities and destinations as described above.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Anderson

A Guide To Choosing Alloy Wheels For Your Car

2006-02-08T17:04:00.000+08:00

Why Choose Alloy Wheels?

A set of aftermarket alloy wheels will improve the appearance of your car and make it stand out from the crowd. Alloy wheels will reduce the unstrung weight of a vehicle compared to one fitted with standard steel wheels. As a result your car will benefit from precise steering as well as slightly better fuel economy.

Improved Safety And Performance.

Alloy is an excellent conductor of heat, improving heat dissipation from the brakes, reducing the risk of brakes failing when your car is subjected to tough driving conditions. There are also performance benefits in the steering response and road holding, especially around corners. Keeping Your Alloys In Top Condition.

It is important to keep your alloy wheels clean and in good condition. You can do this using a soap and water based solution. Other products such as wheel wax are also available. Avoid products with chemicals that can cause deterioration in the finish of your alloy wheels.

Before choosing and purchasing a new set of alloys, ensure that they are the right type for your car. Remember, fitting a large set of alloys will give different handling characteristics to that of the smaller set ( i.e. upgrading from 14” alloys to 15” alloys ) you may have on your vehicle at the moment.

Also, don't neglect the tyres you fit to your alloys. This is imperative. Ensure that the best rubber grade is fitted on your front tyres ( if front wheel drive ) and that they are matching spec.

Article by Roger Bridgwater of http://www.alloy-wheel-information.com ( Your pitstop for alloy wheel information )

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_Bridgwater

Car Care Tips – How to Keep Your Car in Immaculate Condition

2006-02-06T17:30:00.000+08:00

There are several things you must do to keep your car in immaculate condition and retain its value. Apart from regular mechanical servicing and maintenance, your car must also be groomed regularly to keep it looking like new. This means more than simply putting it through the carwash each week. Although it takes a bit longer, you’ll find that hand grooming your car achieves a far better result. There’s no need to spend a lot of money on car care products, however you will need to buy a few. These are some tips I use every time I clean my car.

Exterior

Rinse your car down to get rid of excess dirt, and then wash it with a sponge and soapy water. Once you’ve washed the whole car, rinse it off and then dry it with a soft cloth. If you don’t dry your car afterwards, water droplets gather dust, and when they dry out, you’re left with many spots all over the body of the car. This is especially noticeable with dark colored cars.

Every month or so you should use a bug and tar removal product on the body of your car. There are many of these types of products available at most car care stores. A great product to go for is one which removes bugs, tar and other spots, while polishing the car’s surface at the same time.

Polishing and waxing your car regularly maintains the “shiny look” and also protects the paint from being damaged by the sun.

Always clean the wheels and shine the tires. If your car has alloy wheels, dirt shows up more easily and makes them look dull. You can buy wheel cleaning products which remove the build up of brake dust, but if you clean them each time you wash your car, you should only need to use water and a cloth. When shining the tires, I always use a spray-on tire shine which is quick and easy to use. This not only keeps them looking like new, but protects them from the sun and makes the whole car look magnificent.

For other external areas, use a surface protecting product which is designed to protect rubber, vinyl and plastic from the sun’s UV rays. This can be used on bumpers, rubber seals around doors and windows, and for the interior as well.

Interior

Purchase some car seat covers to protect your seats from getting worn out. They can easily be taken off and washed once in a while. I vacuum the seats and carpet every time I clean my car. Dirt and grit which falls deep into the carpet causes it to wear out quickly, so regular vacuuming is the best way to prevent this. Buying a set of floor mats will keep the majority of dirt from getting into your carpet.

Clean the inside of your car’s windows with a glass cleaning product and a soft cloth. I use a normal household glass cleaning spray for this and it seems to do the job. When cleaning the dashboard and other interior surfaces, be careful you don’t use a product that will damage them. Some vinyl and plastic surfaces can be ruined simply by using the wrong product when cleaning. Once cleaned, you can use a surface protecting spray on these areas also.

When you aren’t using your car, park it in the garage. This not only keeps it out of the weather, but also prevents it from getting dirty. If you don’t have access to a garage, consider buying a car cover. Protecting your car from the weather as much as possible will ensure it remains immaculate.

Go to http://seatcovers-online.info for information on car seat covers, car detailing products and vehicle covers.

About The Author
Paul MacIver is a car enthusiast, and writes about various vehicle-related topics for http://www.vehicle-covers.info. You are welcome to reprint this article only if this resource box is included, and links are intact.

Car Gazing #003: Ferrari F430

2006-01-24T16:16:00.000+08:00

Ferrari F430

(+) Wonderful engine, clever electronics that help the chassis but don't spoil your fun; superstar looks
(-) the three-year wait to get one, even if you can afford it

ON THE ROAD

Performance
The F430’s new 4.3-litre V8 delivers 483bhp and 343lb ft of pulling strength via a six-speed gearbox with either a conventional floor shift or paddles behind the steering wheel. It pulls effortlessly from 2000rpm, but it’s so fast from 4000rpm to the rev limiter at 8500rpm that it seems as if the world has suddenly speeded up.

Ride and Handling
This is the first road car with Grand Prix traction aids, notably an electronic differential to inhibit wheelspin. You can adjust how much help it gives, as well as the degree of anti-skid control and suspension firmness, with a switch on the steering wheel. Its grip defies logic, while ride comfort is good.

Refinement
Part of the appeal of a Ferrari is the noise it makes. When cruising, the F430 is quite subdued apart from some wind noise from around the mirrors. However, squeeze the accelerator and the engine growls, wails and screams, giving an audible reference to your rate of progress. The paddle-shift gearbox is the smoothest yet.

OWNERSHIP

Buying and Owning
Anyone who can afford an F430 won’t bat an eyelid at the high running costs. The painful bit is the two-to-three-year wait to take delivery if your name isn’t already on the order list. Resale values are hugely dependent upon mileage, which is why many Ferraris aren’t used as often as is good for them.

Quality & Reliability
One of the great improvements at Ferrari in recent years is the quality of cars leaving the factory. The paintwork is superb and the fit and finish is close to the standards of German sports cars. The mechanical bits, especially, are a work of art and they should prove unbreakable as long as they are maintained properly.

Safety & Security
Ferrari claims the F430’s structure is so strong that there’s no need to fit side airbags. The electronic safety aids do their job brilliantly so that even 483bhp and a greasy road is not a daunting combination. Deadlocks aren’t fitted but in the UK Ferrari adds a tracking device to help the police locate stolen cars.

IN THE CABIN

Behind the Wheel
These days, you can tailor a Ferrari cabin any way you want. You sit well towards the centre in a snug seat but everything is adjustable and the view out is good for a low, wide, mid-engined car. If the electric window switches were on the doors rather than the dash, it would be close to ideal.

Space & Practicality
The F430 is a mid-engined two-seater but within the restrictions this configuration imposes, it does a good job. The central tunnel is slim to give good shoulder room, even though the seats are mounted well away from the doors. The front boot is quite small but there’s space for more luggage inside the cabin.

Equipment
The basic specification includes leather trim and electronic safety aids but you can personalise the car any way you want. Racing seats and belts, carbon or aluminium dash trim, a red or yellow rev counter and paddle-shift gearchanging are just some options.

source: www.whatcar.com

Test Driving Tips

2006-01-20T20:12:00.000+08:00

Are you thinking of getting a used car? Are you searching for tips on what to check and look for when considering buying a car? It is of utmost importance to have a thorough knowledge of the car that you are going to acquire. This will ensure your enjoyment and contentment for the years to come using your car.

The proper mind set

First of all, you must keep in mind that test driving a car is not a simple procedure. It will determine the claimed performance of the car you want by the dealer and contrast it with the performance in real conditions. This is the time wherein you can see if the car that you have always wanted measures up with your ideals and standards.

Prepare a checklist of criteria

It is important to make a checklist of criteria by which you will be able to judge a car's performance without having any problems regarding objectivity. It will help you see the car's advantages and disadvantages without the influence of other factors that are not as important. This will also enable you to conduct the test drive faster since you already have a set list of the things that you are looking for in a car.

Explore other weather conditions

You should consider test driving a car in inclement weather conditions to have a better feel of the car's overall performance regardless of the type of weather it will be used in. It is good to know the car's feel when driving in rainy conditions or at night. If the dealer requires that a representative accompany you on the test drive, let the person know what you are planning to do and what route you will be taking.

Drive in different kinds of terrain

When test driving a car, outline a route that will take you to different kinds of terrain like bumpy roads and steep hills. When checking a car's turning capabilities and braking power, consider doing it in a side street that has very little traffic. If you are going to evaluate the car's acceleration and speed, then taking it to the open highway or the interstate is a good idea. You should also do a lot of driving on the types of roads that you encounter in everyday driving like your route from work going to your house or vice-versa.

Inside the car

When you are inside the car and behind the wheel, some of the things that you should check are the following:

Look to see if the gauges are working properly and are easy to read. Make certain you can easily see beyond the steering wheel and it does not in any way obstruct your view.

On the dashboard

After checking the gauges and steering wheel, the next thing to look at is the dashboard. Check that all the dashboard controls are within easy reach and you do not need to significantly move out of a comfortable driving position. Search for any extensions on the dashboard that may potentially cause injury to the driver or passenger during sudden stops or when surging forward.

Visibility

Check that windshield wipers are working properly. Use the squirting mechanism that applies the wiper fluid onto the windshield and find areas that may not be reached by it. This is critical since it may affect your night time driving and when driving during bad weather conditions. Does the car have a tint? If the tint is too thick, it will impair night visibility and cause you to have a hard time driving at night. There are also laws that prevent the windshield from being tinted. Check the rules and regulations in your state to determine if that applies.

On the road

While driving, check for blind spots by looking closely at the side mirrors as well as the rear view mirror. Evaluate the performance of the car's suspension by checking if it offers a comfortable ride and you feel that you are in control at all times. Look for a parking lot without too much vehicles and conduct a few sharp turns as well as a U-turn. Does the suspension work well or does the car wobble too much?

Steering performance

Observe that the car has a responsive steering mechanism. A little turn of the steering wheel should be enough for the car to respond efficiently. The steering should be balanced enough so as to have enough power for easy steering and at the same time it should correctly render the feel of the road to the driver.

These are some of the things to consider when taking a car for a road test. Remember to put a car's performance first in your priority before its other aspects.

About The Author
Gregory Ashton, your resident automobile enthusiast, bringing to you over 20 years of vehicular passion, and expertise; presents for your approval his insider secrets on selecting, buying, and maintianing the car that is ideal for you. http://www.best-car-buying-tips.com.