Archive for December, 2009

How to Test a Car Spark Plug
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 31st, 2009

Spark plugs are important components in system of a car. Spark plugs enable the proper functioning of a car engine and perform the function of compressing fuels by the use of an electric spark. Although spark plugs wear out gradually, the user should ensure that the spark plug is of high quality in order to ensure longevity in performance.  A car user is advised to take his vehicle for regular engine servicing. Regular engine servicing enables the mechanic to detect on any impending irregularities in the car.  The car user is also advised to replace their car spark plugs after every two years.  

So here is what you do. 

Spark plugs are important components in system of a car.  

A clear indicator that the car has a faulty spark plug is when the engine slows down on its performance. This is an obvious sign that the spark plug is worn out. Before the user replaces the worn out car spark plug, they should first check the manufacturer’s description of the car spark plug. The manufacturer’s description gives the exact specifications on the original car spark plug and alternative ones in case the user does not find the original type. In order to ensure that the spark plug is completely worn out, the user should test it first. Testing is normally done by the use of a spark plug gauge. Other areas to check on include spark plug cables which indicate any splits, cracks, rust in the engine as well as any other damaged area of the engine.  

The car owner or the mechanic should take precautions against the risk of shock by wearing rubber gloves before they start on the task. The mechanic is also advised not to lean against the vehicle while the engine is still running. The owner/ mechanic can then start by testing the car spark plug functionality by dismantling each plug from the car engine.  Dismantling of the car spark plug is done by the use of a ratchet wrench. With the use of the ratchet wrench, the user is advised to turn the spark plugs in an anti- clockwise direction. This is done while the engine is still running.  When the engine starts to slow down, then the owner of the vehicle should know that the spark plug is still in good condition. If the engine does not react in any way after the spark plugs have been disconnected, then the spark plugs need immediate replacing. 

The next step is removing the spark plug wires. This is done after the engine has cooled down. The owner of the vehicle can then test to see if the spark plug ignition is working. He can do this by exposing the spark plug wire to a metal surface. The spark plug will then emit a spark. This is an indication that the spark plug is in good condition. This action should be repeated for every other spark plug wire. Spark plugs should be also be cleaned regularly so as not to hinder on their performance. The owner/ mechanic of the vehicle should check to ensure that the spark plugs work well and then do another test on the same.

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Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/how-to-test-a-car-spark-plug-1650125.html

Jeep Seat Covers: Add the Look and Feel inside Your Vehicle with Custom-fit Seat Covers
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 30th, 2009

Jeep is one of the most sought after automotive brands. The strong auto is considered versatile and tough vehicle. You can use jeep in varieties of situations. However, when it comes to have greater pleasure and fun riding the hot vehicle, it’s necessary that you pamper your jeep seats with the equally effective jeep seat covers.

Effective maintenance of your jeep upholstery is very important to enjoy the moments inside your jeep. Custom tailored jeep seat covers provide one of the most effective solutions for your seat care. You can enhance the comforts and look and feel inside your jeep.

Your jeep seats have to deal with the varieties of hazards and abuses. Some of them are manmade while others are environmental hazards. The hazards and abuses such dust/dirt, friction caused due to repeated use, UV rays, heat, spills of beverages and liquids, wet costumes, Kids and pets etc make your jeep upholstery dirty, ugly and discolored.

In order to prevent these hazards from damaging your original upholstery, it’s necessary that you get them covered with the quality jeep seat covers. Because once damaged any attempt to reupholster may cost you dearly. However, you can avoid such a situation with custom tailored jeep seat covers in a hassle-free way.

Custom made jeep seat covers are precisely tailored keeping the specifics of your jeep model and sub models. As a result these provide snug fitting and complete covering. The snug fit jeep seat covers safeguard your original upholstery against abuses and hazards and provide desired protection and appeal.

Apart from snug fitting, there are several other features that the custom tailored jeep seat covers come with. Made of tested materials, the effective jeep accessories display superb UV resistance, abrasion resistance, breathability, great strength, and soft touch among others.

Available in a huge array of colors, patterns, and materials to choose from, the custom tailored jeep seat covers provide excellent opportunity to select the best seat accessories for your jeep. So, pick the best out of Neoprene jeep seat covers, Leatherette jeep seat covers, Ballistic jeep seat covers, Tweed jeep seat covers, Velour jeep seat covers, and NeoSupreme jeep seat covers among others and style to your jeep interiors.

James Aslin, an automobile enthusiast loves to experiment with different custom car seat covers and auto accessories. He extensively writes on custom tailored auto seat covers and other protective car accessories.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/jeep-seat-covers-add-the-look-and-feel-inside-your-vehicle-with-customfit-seat-covers-1644449.html

Emergency Kit in Your Car
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 30th, 2009

Carrying Emergency Kit in the car can be of great help while you are away with your family on a long ride as you can be prepared for any unforeseen situation especially while driving through marshy terrain, highways, hilly area and other remote areas. Below is a ‘must carry’ list of Emergency Kit to ward off on-road emergencies with easy solutions.

  1. Oils and Lubricants for the Car

It is very essential to stock bottles and cans of car oils, lubricants, fluids and additives in your car. These oils, lubricants, fluids and additives can help extend your car’s engine life. They provide maximum protection by reducing frictional wear and heat. They also remove clogs and keep the engine running smoothly without any glitches or blockage. Oils, lubricants, fluids and additives can fight friction and dramatically improve lubrication when your car climbing up or down, idling in traffic or traveling at high speeds for long periods. Automatic transmission fluid lubricates and cools the transmission and transfers hydraulic pressure to shifts gears automatically. Brake fluid is a must as it can transmit pressure through the brake lines in a brake system.

  1. Anti-freezers and Coolants

Anti-freezers and Coolants are used in a car’s cooling system to maintain the engine’s temperature throughout its operating range. They play a vital role in the prevention of fuel-line freeze-ups, rust and corrosion and they can remove water from the fuel system of your car.

  1. Emergency Tools

Carrying a bag of Emergency Tools can come very handy. The most important is a Tyre Repair Kit as your tyre is more likely to get a puncture on the terrains. You can now fix a flat tyre in minutes without jacking up your car. You must always carry a Fix-a-Flat. Moreover, make it a habit to travel with Jacks, Jack Stands, Levelers, Winches and Accessories, spare Nuts and Bolts for you never know when you will need them. In addition, carry Emergency Reflectors, Flashlights with extra batteries, Booster Cables as well as Jumper Cables, a pair a work gloves, a hammer and a screwdriver.

  1. Water

Carry sufficient water with you. You and your car may be in need of water any time. Carry some empty bottles as well so that you can refill them easily. Water can be poured on the engine and tyres to cool them down.

  1. Aspirin and Medicines

Pack files of Aspirin and other medicines with you. Popping up an Aspirin can help you get away with that dreading headache and body ache after long hours of continuous drive. Do not forget to pack band-aids and bandages as well. They are a great relief you scratch or hurt yourself while maintaining your car.

  1. Protein or Snack Bars

You can easily get tired when you are on the steering wheels for a long time. So, help yourself with protein bars or with light meals every now and then. This will give to energy to drive for long hours without making you feel sleepy. Pamper yourself with dry fruits, biscuits, chocolates and chewing gums.

  1. Miscellaneous

Apart from the above, always carry a blanket, in case you are out in the countryside. This will not only help you to feel warm and cozy at night but also ward off mosquitoes and insects from biting you. Carry tubes of ointments and balms and sunscreens as well. Wearing goggles and glasses while driving will protect your eyes from harmful sunrays, heavy wind and flying debris. Pick up a towel, a pair of scissors, pen and writing pads, a map, a knife, cotton swab and some cotton cloth for cleaning before you start your journey. You can also pile your car with music CDs and cassettes.

Carazoo.com is the First Car Portal in India with Interactive Car Animations.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/emergency-kit-in-your-car-1645008.html

Red Hot Mustang Seats and Buxom Babes: The Hottest James Bond Cars
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 30th, 2009

Part of the classic James Bond formula besides gadgets and girls is the car. You’ll find James Bond driving only the most expensive and fully upgraded sports and luxury cars during his adventures, often putting them through cringe-worthy ordeals and shoot outs. From red hot Mustang seats to buxom babes, here is a list of the hottest cars that James Bond drove.

Aston Martin DB5

You can find this classic Bond car in the film “Goldfinger” with Sean Connery. It is considered one of the Bone series’ most iconic cars, if not one of the most iconic cars in all of cinema. With its sleek, gorgeous lines and amazing speed, Bone could take out or evade enemies with the push of a button or a foot on the pedal.

Toyota 2000GT

It may not seem as cool as it once did, but in the film “You Only Live Twice,” this technologically outfitted Toyota 2000GT came with a television, cordless phone and voice-activated stereo, things commonplace today but at the time truly futuristic. A funny bit of trivia is that the car used in the film was specifically built without a roof because Sean Connery was too tall to fit in the roofed coupe.

Ford Mustang Mach 1

Bond briefly drove this American muscle car in “Diamonds are Forever” and helped sell hundreds if not thousands of the Ford Mustang Mach 1 just like Steve McQueen did when he drove his ‘stang in the film “Bulitt.” In “Diamonds are Forever,” Bond took his Mach one through the winding alleys in Vegas to elude death and save the world once again.

Alan McGee is a freelance writer from MN.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/red-hot-mustang-seats-and-buxom-babes-the-hottest-james-bond-cars-1641064.html

Car Services For Business And Corporate People
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 29th, 2009

Boston is the Hub for both if you are coming on business or for vacation, you must enjoy your time here, as its residents called it as corporate or the Business center. If you wish to get around this discussed place, always using the cab service is quite hassle, since it takes a quite waiting for an empty cab. Its not only make an impact on your company but it force to kick-start new corporate car service for all to ease. So to remove the nightmare on general cab service nobody ought not to forget about the Limousine traveling at nearly the same price. On addition to that, using Limo gives a luxurious and an affordable way of roaming. High class and professional people these days preferred this Limousine tour because the Limo Company will be tracking your flight so if you are delayed, they’ll know and be waiting when you arrive, along with the Limo driver will assists you with your luggage. Another point for which the Boston Business Limousine Travel is getting its popularity because of it offers hourly trips,if u need in special occasions like birthday, anniversary wedding or bachelor parties you can easily get the Limousine roaming to make the event memorable and perfect by the right riding style.

As most people in Boston belong to corporate and business centers, it’s always been a demand to make a corporate car service to look after those specific class people to get the amenities in a professional way of roaming. But to make it success all the way to provide the customer friendly service or in other words the business travel we have to take care about the quality of facilities and the needs of the professional people. To screen all the facilities about the professional traveling a governing body is there to check all the parameters to renew their facilities period, they are insured or not and whether they have proper licensed holder or not. Now days, all the commercial car service providers are tied up with different airlines to exchange their clients in a perfect way. On board professionals and high profile people are taken care of by these traveling professionals for their destination with all other facilities like boarding etc.

Now both the Business Limousine travel or other corporate car service providing company are going to make a proper Transportation Association by which certain rules and regulations are made to make a better service for both the people belong to Business or Corporate class.

After a lot of search, we found that Boston Business Limousine Travel is one of best ways to travel and you can also look for Corporate car service Boston for your traveling as well

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/car-services-for-business-and-corporate-people-1641580.html

A Replacement Prius Battery - The One Replacement Battery You NEVER Want to Buy!
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 28th, 2009

Is it Time for a Replacement Prius Battery?

Chances are that if you have landed here, you are starting to look at a replacement Prius battery.  You may or may not have noticed to that these are by far THE MOST EXPENSIVE batteries EVER!  If you don’t know, I don’t want to be the one to tell you, but they are upwards of $4000!  I’m sure that you didn’t know this when you first bought your Prius.  Rest assured, you are not the only one.

I guess before I go any further, we should figure out whether or not you need a replacement Prius battery.  Here are three easy ways to tell if a new battery is necessary  -

Sign Number One -
Slow to Accelerate

Does your Prius feel more like a golf cart rather than a car?  It seems that your Prius is really slow to accelerate.  This is because the battery is not doing its part in the acceleration process.  This is usually one of the first things an owner realizes when the battery is starting to go.

Sign Number Two -
The Battery Is Not Holding its Charge

A Prius battery is no different than other batteries like a laptop battery is your standard 12V car battery.  With age and use, the batter can no longer hold its charge as well as it used to.  This is just normal wear and tear.  If your Prius can no longer hold a charge, it may be time to start looking at a replacement Prius battery.

Sign Number Three -
A Decrease in Your Fuel Economy

A decrease in your fuel economy is a great way to diagnose a dying Prius battery.  Basically the battery is no longer doing its part in the process - because it cant.  If have noticed a decline in your fuel economy, it is because the Prius is using more gasoline than it should to keep your car running.  

So what are your thoughts?  Is it time for a replacement Prius battery?

I want to let you in a little secret.  The Prius batteries are typically covered under warranty for eight years.  Coincentatly , the average lifespan of the Prius battery is only about seven or eight years.  

How convenient, right?   That works out well for Toyota now doesn’t it?

Now for the good stuff…

You many not have to spend the thousands of dollars for a new battery, rather you can just rebuild the one you have!  This of course is something that your Toyota dealer is not going to tell you.  They want you to buy the replacement Prius battery.

Basically all they are going to do is rebuild the battery and charge you for a brand new one.

If you want to save thousands of dollars on your replacement Prius battery, you must visit http://ReplacementPriusBattery.com/. Don’t even bother taking your car to Toyota because they are just going to try and take your money!

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/a-replacement-prius-battery-the-one-replacement-battery-you-never-want-to-buy-1635822.html

Resale value of luxury brands in Toronto market
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 28th, 2009

I get a lot of questions on what make and model to buy when it comes to a used car in Toronto. I don’t think the answer is as simple and straight forward as people thinks. Depend on what you are looking for this can be personal, so here is my personal opinion on some of the best used cars to buy, and certain things to stay away from.

Imports, everyone thinks the imports are better in quality, to a certain degree it is true. You can see the difference in craftsmanship when you touch and feel the vehicle panels, interior fittings, and during your drive the suspension system as well as exterior noises. Certain things to be aware of, this include 1999-2002 Honda and Acura V6 products, include Accord V6, Acura TL, Odyssey, after 180,000 – 200,000 km. The transmission typically will slip or kick, they can be that way for years, or they can break tomorrow. Used BMW from 1994-1999 or E36 body style, they typically also have transmission problems after 150,000 km. Also minor stuff include radio screen blank out, and dash board power intermittently cuts out. Rust forming on the rocker panels on both sides due to poor displacement of water through its running channels.

If you are looking for a luxury brand with very low resell value, here are few on my list.

1994-2002 Saabs, very affordable, but not so affordable when it comes to repairs.
1996-2002 Audi, very affordable to buy, but once again expensive to repair.
1994-1999 BMW reasonably priced, not too expensive to repair, and more access to parts.
1996-2004 VW reasonably priced, not too expensive to repair, easy access to mechanics.
1994-1999 Jaguars, very affordable but you should stay away from regardless of the selling price.
1996-2002 Acura lines, reasonably priced, and durable other than the V6 transmission.
1996-2001 Lexus ES300, reasonably priced, and durable.
1996-2000 Nissan Maxima, very affordable, but typical sensor, rust, suspension problems.

Thank you for reading this article, it is brought to you by New Oshawa Motors. For more information please visit us online at http://www.newoshawamotors.com or visit http://www.prlog.org/10466295-resell-value-of-luxury-brands-in-toronto.html

New Oshawa Motors is Oshawa’s premier used car dealership, with over 100 vehicles in stock they specialize in bad credit used car financing. To visit their website please follow http://www.newoshawamotors.com.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/resale-value-of-luxury-brands-in-toronto-market-1630807.html

The 2010 Acura MDX: The SUV with street smarts
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 27th, 2009

In many drivers’ minds, Acura service has always been top notch. From their reputable standing of well-made construction, safety-conscious features and technological advancements, Acura is a serious competitor in the car industry. Consumers are becoming more technologically savvy. They are embracing the notion of Bluetooth, mp3 players, satellite radio etc. and these conveniences are now becoming requirements in newer vehicles. When consumers are looking to buy Acura vehicles, technological features are high on their list. Acura has created a 2010 line up that excels customer satisfaction and comfort. The Acura 2010 MDX is a proven testament of how technology enhances the experience of driving, no matter where you’re going.

Buy Acura vehicles like the Acura MDX

The Acura MDX is an SUV that offers superior handling, driver technology and race-inspired suspension. The Acura MDX features a 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift® and Intelligent Shift Control. These two features use electronic sensors which control gear shifting and engine reaction depending on road conditions. It continuously monitors how much power to need for optimal driving. With these features plus the Grade Logic Control system that’s also included, you’ll never have to be afraid of driving on less than ideal roads or going up or down some of the steepest hills.

Acura service just wouldn’t be the same without technology in the mix. Now you can communicate without even moving a finger. The Acura MDX is equipped with HandsFreeLink telephone service through Bluetooth which allows you to make and receive calls without having to manually pick up a phone.  Through voice activation you can keep in touch with the people you need to, without losing focus on the road. The Acura MDX audio system operates in English or French and has the capability of integrating up to six different phones.
The Acura MDX provides an overall smooth ride. With its 4-wheel independent front and rear suspension, you’ll feel connected to the road every time you turn a corner, take a bend or explore the open road.

Test drive a 2010 Acura MDX today and see what Acura service means to drivers. The Acura MDX knows every road you drive on and is equipped with the capabilities to handle them with care.  Whether you’re driving on tight city roads or discovering unchartered territory, the Acura MDX is an SUV that’s truly street smart.

Tod Martin is an contributed author to this website, writing articles on acura and acura tsx. He has codified lots of articles on acura cars, acura csx, acura integra and acura service. For more info visit the website.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/the-2010-acura-mdx-the-suv-with-street-smarts-1629648.html

How to get a car rental
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 26th, 2009

 

 

STEPS:

1.Choose three to four car rental firms that fit your wants and needs, do this either through the phonebook, or through the internet, remember to scan every possible firm before you make a choice, you don’t want to overlook the best car rental because you got bored from looking

2.Contact the agency and ask about their special offers, location, availability, pickup sites, rates, special rates, hotel and airline partnerships, extra charges, insurance, everything you can think of that can help lower what you have to pay for your car rental, or what would make the car rental more convenient for you.

3.Choose a pickup point; find one that is near you so it won’t be a hassle, some car rental companies pay for the cab ride you have to take, some pick you up at your home or at the airport to take you to your rental.

4.Pick a car, depending on your needs, find a car that could fit all the people you’ll have in it, and if you’re alone just use a compact, some rentals charge higher for larger vehicles.

5.The next thing to do, after you’ve totally decided on which to take, remember to reserve it, some car rentals include the reservation fee on the overall rent, some make it out to be an extra fee, you should also look out for this when get a car rental.

TIPS

For the best deals for your money here are some tips when looking, finding and taking out a car rental.

1.When getting a car rental check for available upgrades at no charge, you’d want the best deal so you’d want the best car, to do this, you should go pickup your car early in the morning, when the other cars haven’t been returned yet, this way there would be a shortage on economy cars and the firm might just give you an upgrade for a lower price.

2.Get an internet car rental. These types of rentals offer internet only discounts, and sometimes even accepts find a car at your own price methods where you just give them your budget and they’ll find the best deal for you, plus you wont have to go anywhere to get a rental.

3.Fill the gas tank before you return your car, car rentals will charge you, at an inflated price, the cost of the gas needed to fill the tank.

4.Look for packages like fly-drive-stay or fly-drive, these will get you great discounts on rentals, and what’s more you won’t have to worry about other details like a hotel or an airline, everything’s there. You can find these packages on must travel agencies.

5.If your frequent flyer discount or free flight is about to expire, there are some car rental companies that offer to exchange these discounts to discounts on your car rental, although its more cost effective to just fly with your frequent flyer discount, if its going to expire anyway, why wait?

These are just a few of the things you’ll need to know, but always remember to be pesky, ask questions, ask for discounts, the only reason why people don’t get better value for the things they buy is because they’re too shy to ask.

 

We are a tips website with tips on how to make money as an affiliate,finance tips,travel tips,car tips,computer tips,shopping tips,video tips, and much more.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/how-to-get-a-car-rental-1628476.html

Important Questions to ask an Auto Transporter before hiring them
(No Comments) Posted in Auto Cars by on December 25th, 2009

If you are thinking about shipping your vehicle because you are moving to a new place, or you wish to sell your car to someone who is far away from your place, then you might be looking out for reliable auto transporters who will make it a point to be answerable to all your questions before and after the shipping process. There are few questions that you must ask an auto transporter before hiring them. We have gathered few points which you must ask and finally convince yourself with the things that you were looking for.

What type of shipping services you provide and what are their costs?

It’s always wise to ask this question first. You must ask them what their rates are for the weight and size of a vehicle. Also ask them about ay extra fee, and if you are responsible for import duties and taxes.

Is your company registered with USDOT and is a DOT and MC number is given to you?

Companies that function on commercial vehicles that transport passengers or shipping cargo in divided highways must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT Number.

Equally, the company’s name and FMC number should be mentioned on the FMC’s website.

Ask them if they have the correct court documents and cargo insurance coverage, along with the federal license.

A genuine company should have no problem with showing you these    things.

Ask the companies for their insurance certificates and the type of insurance they provide.

All auto transporters will provide some form of insurance to its customers, but only the range of coverage varies for specific companies. Make sure to ask them all details you require about the type of insurance they are providing. If you are not satisfied with the details ask them if they would provide any additional insurance for an extra pay.

Does your company provide free shipping estimate?

A reliable car shipping company must offer you a free shipping estimate, when you answer to few simple questions like what model of car do you drive and where you need it to be transported. Well, the representative providing you the estimate would probably going to note down your name and contact information too.

Ask if they have a GPS tracking system enabled.

With the tracking system enable you would be able to monitor any rash or risky driving practices.

What payment method does the carrier use?

Ask them about the payment method the carriers use, and what forms of auto shipping payments they accept (credit card, cashiers check etc). Some car transport companies might insist on full payment in advance, while others may ask for a deposit.

What documents will I have to produce?

Make sure to ask what documents you would need to produce them before preparing your car for shipping. It would be simple documents like documentation that you own the car and a copy of your license of passport.  

When would my car arrive?

Always fix the date and time for the arrival of your vehicle to the destination, this actually depends on how far in advance you call an auto transporter for them to estimate the car arrival time.

Miguel Covarrubias is an author for car shipping. He has written various articles on auto transport. For information visit our site car transport

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/important-questions-to-ask-an-auto-transporter-before-hiring-them-1624380.html