Peugeot - From Coffee to Cars

The Peugeot Family has been in business in some form or another since the seventeen hundreds. From the production of coffee to bicycles in the early part of the twentieth century, automobiles would be the next big thing to come along.
The company produced its first automobile in 1889. The car was steam powered and had three wheels. However, steam proved to be unwieldy and cumbersome for use in any personal passenger vehicles. After meeting with Gottlieb Daimler, Armand Peugeot decided that the gasoline internal combustion engine was much more suited to what he had in mind. Peugeot acquired a license from Daimler to use their engines in Peugeot vehicles. Cars produced by the French company would remain powered by Daimler engines until the first Peugeot engines were developed in 1896.





Just as it had always been, Peugeot continued to produce a variety of products up through the turn of the twentieth century when Armand Peugeot formed his own company to focus exclusively on automobile manufacturing.
Peugeot would become an early influence on car racing in Europe and would remain a power in this arena for years to come. Around the time of World War 1, Armand decided to try his handed at motorcycles. His family had longed produced some of the finest bicycles in Europe. Armand was just as successful at motorcycles as his family had been with bicycles and the Peugeot Auto Company has produced motorcycles every since.
Once Europe became embroiled in World War I, Peugeot, just as most other manufacturers of the time, turned their attention to the war efforts. They eventually became a major manufacturer of arms and military vehicles throughout the remainder of the war. Once the allies were victorious, the focus once again turned to car production.
The French car company entered the United States market in 1958 with the Peugeot 404. Peugeot was never able to find its niche in American society and for the most part consumers simply ignored the brand. After several attempts to pique the curiosity of the American car buyer, Peugeot decided to cut its losses and withdrew from the American market. This did not exclude the company from going after American car manufacturers in Europe, however. In 1978, the company took over Chrysler Europe. Chrysler Corporation was suffering from heavy financial losses both at home and abroad and accepted the offer to take the ailing division off its hands almost immediately. Earlier in 1974, Peugeot had also acquired Citroen and for a brief period had interest in Maserati as well. The acquisition of so much debt so quickly proved nearly to be the undoing of Peugeot in the early eighties. The introduction of the popular Peugeot 205 was credited with the company's recovery from the brink of financial ruin. While the 205 was able to save the company from complete collapse, Peugeot was still experiencing some financial stress.
For the future, Peugeot has announced a goal of selling 4 million units annually. In order to accomplish this, the French car manufacturer has plans of pursuing some of the more exotic markets in the world such as China, Russia and South America. Due to the weakening of the U.S. Dollar, there has been some talk of a return to the American market. At this point, that may well be speculation only.

Review Tesla S - Mass Produced Electric Sedan

Tesla Motors unveiled a prototype of its second vehicle, dubbed the Tesla S. Following on the heels of the recently released Tesla Roadster, the Tesla S takes the automaker in a slightly different direction - seeking to appeal to mainstream buyers, particularly those of less costly sedans with long term higher ownership costs.
Initial Appeal For The Sedan Is Strong
A seven passenger model, the Tesla S will not be going into production until late 2011, which means that when the sedan hits the market it will be cast as a 2012 model. That is still a long way off, but interest in the car is rising steadily. The automaker made a recent announcement that more than one thousand people have plunked down a $5000 refundable deposit on the sedan, signaling that the appeal for this car will eventually prove to be strong.




The Tesla Roadster made its debut in 2008 and is the first pure electric car of its kind. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, the Roadster is famous for going from zero to sixty in just 3.9 seconds while emitting zero emissions. Priced at around $108,000 before a $7500 federal tax credit kicks in, the Tesla Roadster is for the hard core sports car enthusiast, thus it is a low volume vehicle. To date, Tesla has produced just 400 copies of the Roadster although many times that number of people are on the their waiting list.
Going For A Broader Audience
With the Tesla S, Tesla Motors decided to go with a wider audience in a bid to attract customers. Priced at about $57,000, the Tesla S will get the same $7500 federal tax credit Roadster buyers receive, pushing the car's price just below $50,000. Styled like a European luxury sedan, the S will seat five adults and two children, an unusual configuration for a car in this class.
Like the Roadster, the zero emissions S will appeal to environmentally concerned drivers. Powered by a lithium ion battery pack the sedan should have a driving range of about 300 miles. At this time, the automaker says that they are working on a QuickCharge onboard recharging unit, a device that could recharge the sedan's depleted batteries in as little as 45 minutes. This means that for the person taking a long trip, they could stop long enough to enjoy dinner before heading out in their freshly recharged sedan without having to lose out on travel time.
All The Amenities Luxury Drivers Demand
Inside, the design of the Tesla S will astound buyers especially as they take note of a whopping seventeen inch display panel for navigation and offer all of the technological feedback and enhancements that today's luxury car buyers demand. Premium car buyers who are attracted to a BMW or a Mercedes will feel at home in the Tesla S, perhaps finding that the car's power and low ownership costs beyond the base price make it an attractive vehicle for them.

Honda Legend - Quality Luxury Saloon

The Honda Legend has been designed to fit firmly into the pack of luxury cars that currently occupy a sizeable niche in the UK car market. The 3.5 Litre V6 engine, when combined with the slick automatic gearbox, makes for a very responsive and smooth drive. The interior of the Honda Legend is gadget-laden, to the point where any technophobe would probably have an instant panic attack and be found hours later cowering in the rather sizeable boot-space. In tradition with the majority of Honda's fleet (and most cars of far-eastern descent) reliability and build quality are not issues at all.





You will find that the Honda Legend will still be running strong and well long after the average Mercedes' clutch has jammed, the brakes have burnt out and is basically a flaming wreck on the hard shoulder. The one minor factor that will prevent the Honda Legend from becoming a new leader of the luxury saloon market is the badge. Sure Honda have nowhere near the kind of prestige of BMW, Audi, Mercedes Benz or the like, but if you look past the badge you will find a car that is equal (in performance terms) to its rivals. And at considerably less cost, you could buy the Honda Legend and then take a long relaxing cruise around the Mediterranean with the money left over.

Tips To Avoid Car Engine Breaks Down Whilst Driving

If your car breaks down at the side of the road it will certainly be an inconvenience and will delay your journey, but unlikely to be life threatening. If however your car breaks down whilst it is still moving the consequences could be entirely different, especially if you are travelling at high speed on a motorway, requiring you to react correctly and decisively to ensure your car is brought safely to a stop without causing an accident.
Engine Failure
Most modern cars now come with power assisted steering and brakes, so if the engine fails it is very likely that these systems will be affected too. Therefore you will need to be prepared to use extra force to turn the steering wheel and place extra force on the brake pedal to bring the car safely to stop.

Most engines are now governed by an electronic control system that have a limp home mode if they detect a fault, and this could mean your speed is suddenly limited to under 30mph, even if you are travelling at a much higher speed. If you suddenly experience a loss of power switch on your left hand indicator lights and use gaps in the traffic to safely pull over to the side of the road.
Engine Fire
If you detect an unusual burning or petrol smell, or see signs of fire pull over immediately and get all of the vehicle occupants out of the car and to a safe place as soon as possible. If the fire is inside the engine compartment do not open that bonnet, because the sudden rush of air will cause the fire to flare and burn even harder. Stay well back and call the fire brigade to handle it.
Engine Overheating
The first signs of an overheating engine will be on the rising temperature gauge inside the cockpit, which if left unnoticed can lead to steam coming out from under the bonnet. As soon as you suspect the engine is overheating pull over, switch on your hazard car bulbs and stop the engine as soon as possible otherwise the engine could be seriously damaged.
Allow the engine plenty of time to cool before investigating further, especially if you are going to remove the engine coolant filler cap and top up the fluid level. The reason for this is that the coolant system is a closed system and so whilst still hot will release scalding hot steam.
Modern car engines are normally extremely reliable, however faults do occasionally occur, so it is important to know how to react safely and correctly if they do.

Tips To Fix the Air Conditioning in a Car

Air conditioner in car has become a necessity these days. It is very difficult to travel in a car without an AC in scorching heat. The car AC is very small and the designing and the functioning is completely different from that of the air conditioners used in offices and homes. There are two sides of an air conditioning system of a car, viz high side and low side. The compressor of the AC begins at the high side, and performs the functioning of the pump. The refrigerant is moved through the system with the help of the compressor. The expansion valve is there at the low side, which restricts the flow of refrigerant. This helps in reducing the temperature and the pressure of the refrigerant.
The car air conditioner works almost like a refrigerator and has a multi-component piece of machinery. The warm air is removed from the car and the cool air is pushed inside the car. This helps in maintaining the temperature of the small space in the car, and moderates the area.
There may be times when the AC in the car stops working or does not give effective cooling. A repair is required at this stage. Each and every car is made of different design and model. But, the basic functioning of the AC in most of the cars is the same. The basic problems with the car air conditioner and the basic ways to fix the problems of car air conditioner have been listed below:
Absence of cool air and improper cooling are the signs of problems with respect to the car air conditioner.
In order to diagnose the problem with your car air conditioner, it is very important to have proper information and knowledge of the different parts of the car air conditioner. There are five components of the car AC viz the compressor, the condenser, the expansion valve, the refrigerant, and the dryer or evaporator.
It is very important to understand the functioning of all the parts so that the right action can be taken in case of any problem.
The refrigerant is pumped out through the compressor. The compressor acts as a power unit of the car air conditioner.
The condenser performs the function of changing the refrigerant to the liquid form.
The liquid formed through the condenser is converted into cold air with the help of the evaporator or the dryer.
There may be some pressure on the condensed refrigerant. This pressure is removed with the help of the expansion valve and moved into the evaporator.
In case of ineffective cooling, check the refrigerant for any kind of leakage. A fluorescent dye that is readily available at any auto part shop can be used to check the refrigerant. Autozone or NAPA can be used as the fluorescent dye.
The instructions given on the pack of the dye that you purchase should be followed completely and carefully. In most of the cases, the dye is added through the low pressure A/C recharge port that is found on the canister of the air conditioner of the car.
Use the U/V light to check for the leakage. In case of leakage of the refrigerant, the refilled kits can be bought from any auto supply store. These refilled kits are sealed and the replacement can be done by anyone at home.
In case this is not the problem, check for any kind of problem with the fuses, wires, and fan belts. The fuse may have turned bad. The wires might have broken, and the belts of the fan may have got damaged. All these problems may be creating trouble with the functioning of the pump. In case of any problem with any of these parts, get the parts replaced to ensure proper functioning of the car air conditioner.
The air conditioner should be tested after making any kind of repair done by you.
In case one has tried all the above methods to make the AC function properly, and even after replacing all the parts, the AC does not function properly, then there is a need to call a professional.

Free Plastic Bumper Repair Tips

There are a few precautions to keep in mind before you get your bumper repair completed. First and foremost is to choose a plastic bumper repair company you trust. From there, you can take work through the process to get the best finish for you and your car.
• Get an estimate ahead of time. Most bumper repair providers will either allow you to email a picture or come in for a free estimate for the cost of damages. It's always best to approach bumper painting and repair knowing what you can expect to pay - especially if you want to do a little comparison shopping.
• Clean the area of your car that will be getting the bumper repair done. While your mobile bumper repair provider will certainly still work on your vehicle if it's dirty, you can save everyone some time and effort by providing a good glimpse at the total damages.
• Consider the weather. Although no one can predict when it will rain, hail, or even snow, you may want to plan for your repairs at a time when the weather is sunny or when you can park indoors (during inclement weather). Although most cars are able to be on the road as soon as the plastic bumper repair work is finished, it's the best to avoid weather extremes for at least the first day.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you're uncertain about any part of the process - from getting your repairs done while you're at the office to the types of materials used to return your car to a flawless finish - be sure and talk to your bumper repair specialist. They should be able to answer any questions you have about getting back on the road or about what they offer in terms of a quality guarantee.
The entire purpose of mobile bumper repair is making the process easy on you. Remember, though, that there is an element of care involved in ensuring that your perfect bumper paint and repairs remain flawless. Follow these guidelines and you'll be back on track to a great looking finish.

Free Wheel Alignment Tips

A wheel alignment is nothing more than setting the angle of the hub/wheel so it tracks in the right direction. Most vehicles have four-wheel alignments, meaning each of the four wheels is separately aligned. Your basic alignment consists of three angles: camber, caster and toe-in. Camber is the tilt of the tire when viewed from the front of the car. Positive camber means the top of the tire is tilted away from the car. Negative camber means the top is tilted in. Camber has a lot to do with cornering performance. Too much negative camber will wear the inside of the tires prematurely. Too much positive camber will wear the outside tread.

Caster is the inclination of the front spindle. Picture the angle of the forks on a bike top to bottom. When the caster is out, it creates a pull or wandering condition and sometimes a slow responding steering wheel. Toe-in is measured in inches or degrees. Viewing from the front of the car, it is the difference between the front and rear center-line of the tire. Toe-in means the fronts of the tires are closer together. Toe-out means, the fronts of the tires are farther apart. Toe-in or out has the most effect on tire wear.
When your car is out of alignment, the tires will wear prematurely. In some extreme cases, new tires will be gone within 500 miles. At the price of tires, especially high performance tires with soft compounds, you want to keep your vehicle in alignment as long as possible. Other symptoms of an out-of-alignment car are poor handling, pulling to one side, or wandering from side-to-side. An alignment will also affect the steering wheel response and how quickly it returns to the center.
Your vehicle's alignment should be checked every 10,000 to 12,000 miles. Any harsh impact such as potholes, curbs, objects in the road, or the damage of an accident, should prompt you to have your alignment checked. If you do any modifications to your suspension, raising or lowering your car, that will affect the alignment angles. Even changing the tire size will effect the alignment. Loose, worn or bent suspension parts such as ball joints, springs, bushings, and control arms will have an adverse affect on your alignment, too. In most cases you do not know if your alignment is out. The best way to check it is with a precision alignment machine. Laser optics combined with a computer allow for the most accuracy in alignment readings.
Remember you are aligning the hub of your vehicle. Check to see if the alignment shop or dealer has equipment that attaches to the hub, not the wheel. Many independent shops that do alignments have a specialty tool called "Tru Align" that attaches to the hub. This will make for a much more accurate alignment with the added bonus of not damaging the delicate finish on your wheels.
There is a lot more to suspension alignment, especially if you push your vehicle on the track. The modifications you make on your suspension are just the beginning. Once you start down this road you will be concerned with things like bump steer, weighting (vertical load), preloading, tire traction versus tire load, and more. Now you're thinking under-steer, over-steer, tire compound, sway bar design, and other topics that can be covered in a later article. For now, just remember to have your vehicle aligned every 10,000 to 12,000 miles in normal driving conditions.
If you accidentally hit a curb, or drive through a nasty pothole or other road obstruction, that would be a cue to have your car's alignment checked more often. Proper alignment is good for your car. It will save unnecessary wear on your tires. It will ensure that your vehicle is giving you the handling the factory designed the car to have. And, most importantly, a properly aligned car is safer and more fun to drive.

Tips To Care on Tie-Rod Ends

The tie rod end attaches to the steering knuckle on each front wheel on Rack and Pinion Steering.
On non-R&P steering, there is one attached to the steering knuckle on each front wheel and one attached to the long bar that controls both wheels for steering, called a Tie Rod Drag Link.
This link is connected to the pitman arm coming from the steering gear-box and also connected to an idler arm for stability purposes.



The little tie rod ends on non R&P screw into a sleeve with both right-handed threads and left-handed threads.
When you have the toe-in set on your vehicle, the technician can loosen two bolts and nuts and twist this sleeve¡...this makes the tires go out or in.
It is very important to have these tie rod ends greased every time you have the oil and filter changed in the engine.
The importance in greasing them is to keep them moving freely.
If they get dry they will wear out quickly.
If they wear out, they can come apart.
If they come apart, you won't be able to steer your vehicle. Not a good thing.
Now, grant you, on some of the newer vehicles the manufacturers decided to leave off the grease fittings.
These tie rods come pre-packed and will last a very long time.
But, you should have them 'checked ' at each oil change.
Some have a threaded hole for the grease fitting, but they have a small cap over them.
You can remove the cap and add a fitting so you can grease it.
Any time you replace a tie rod end, be sure to grease it, and the others if you can.
Take care of your vehicle so it will take care of you and your family!

Removing Unsightly Dents And Scratches

Almost every driver out there has their fair share of stories regarding minor car accidents, such as backing up on a pole, rear ending a stray shopping cart, or dropping a heavy object on the trunk lid. And, the usual result is having an ugly dent or a scraped finish on their car. The bad thing about this is that claiming insurance for small damage on your car can be quite costly. Also, getting it repaired by a professional can be very expensive.However, there are ways to fix dents and minor scratches on the car. With a plunger, touch up paint and other supplies for repairing scratches and dents, you will be able to repair unsightly small dents and scratches and make your car look like as if nothing happened.

If you've encountered an accident where it has damaged a large body panel, you may be able to pull the dent back out. All you need to do is dump soapy water over the affected area and stick a household plunger on it. After that, gently pull the plunger in order to pull the panel back into shape. The water will be able to help with the suction and the soap will be able to allow you to slide the plunger down the panel to break the suction.However, if the accident resulted in a small dent near a creased area of the car, you will need to place a small block of wood at the tip of the dent. Then, you will need to gently tap the wood with a mallet in order to force the misplaced metal back into its original shape.Scratches and chips on the finish are also very easy to fix. All you need to do is purchase a bottle of touch up paint with the same color of the finish of your car.

The first step is to wash the scraped area with the soapy water. Pay close attention to tar and bugs on the affected area and make sure that you remove them. Then, wet a fine grit sandpaper and carefully sand out the edges of the scraped area. After that, you need to dry the area and let it sit for at least 10 to 15 minutes or up until the area is completely dried. After this, spray the area with your bottle of touch up paint. You can apply a second coat after the first coat dries up.As you can see, repairing minor scratches and dents are easy to do. You don't need to spend hundreds of dollars on repairs to get it fixed. By following these tips, you can be sure that you will be able to repair minor dents and scratches from your car effectively.

Ferrari and McLaren Must Face Reality in 2009

The penultimate moment of the 2009 Formula One season is upon us with the Spanish Grand Prix. This is the race when teams introduce their big changes after the diffuser debate was decided in favor of allowing the double diffuser. All indications are Ferrari and McLaren have made no jump forward.
Juan Pablo Montoya has always been highly thought of as a driver, but has nearly always been a disappointment. That being said, he did say one accurate thing following his move to NASCAR from Formula. He noted that NASCAR was different because you had the ability to improve an uncompetitive car to the point where you could race for wins and be competitive in NASCAR. A bad car, in his view, was a bad car for the season in F1. He was definitely on point.
The 2009 season finds us with the two best teams caught with their pants around their ankles. The McLaren and Ferrari cars are slow. McLaren appears to be a bit faster than the Italians, but neither car has any realistic hope of finishing on the podium. The teams are solid and have good drivers, but the end of the 2009 season is nigh and they are kidding themselves if they think it is anything other than a fact.

The first race of the European season is upon us with the Spanish Grand Prix. The teams have moved forward with major changes in an attempt to catch the front runners. The effect? Ferrari and McLaren have spent the first two practices driving in the double digit positions – 11 through 20th. While they could certainly be sandbagging, the facial expressions and comments from the drivers indicate it is going to be another long weekend for the teams.
The question now is what should occur? Should the teams continue to develop the cars for 2009 in an attempt to be competitive? The answer is found in the comments of Montoya. The cars are dogs now and they will be dogs in another 10 races. Any advances made by Ferrari and McLaren will just be matched by Brawn GP, Red Bull, Toyota and so on. The lack of in season testing further nails down the fate of McLaren and Ferrari.

The 2009 season boils down to a Red Bull versus Brawn GP championship. Oh, joy. Unless it rains at every race, Brawn GP are your constructor’s champions and Jenson Button is World Champion. After three seasons of exciting racing, this is where the changes of the FIA have left us. The season is decided after only five races.

Free Auto Insurance Tips

When you first get your driver’s license the next thing you need to do before you can begin driving is to find auto insurance, and although there are hundreds of places offering auto insurance there is still research needing to be done. The research that needs done will only take a few days to complete but is necessary to ensure you get the right coverage and for the right price. Many auto insurance companies have prices that vary from competitors which are why researching the companies is important. If you research the different insurance brokers then you’ll soon find out that the pricing and coverage differs quite a bit and you’ll need to figure out which is best suited for your needs.



Auto insurance isn’t cheap and especially for new drivers who are getting auto insurance for the first time. The car you drive will matter significantly with the price that you’ll need to pay and if you believe that your car insurance is too expensive then it could be because you’re trying to insure a sports car. Family cars and minivans and the best for getting insured on when young and beginning to drive, you’ll pay a lot less this way and could save thousands over the years.
Driving school is important for new drivers as well because if you take one of the driving school programs in your area then you’ll be eligible for a lot lower insurance rate. Insurance brokers feel if you’ve been trained then you’ll be a lot less of a threat to them for getting into an accident and therefore they will reward you will a lower monthly payment which is usually pretty significant.
When you begin choosing the insurance company to become insured under make sure it’s a known company with a solid track record. Many companies sell fake car insurance and are getting away with it due to the increasing number of companies doing it. This is why you need to do your research and make sure that the company you choose has many happy and satisfied customers before you become insured under them. Many of the leading companies will have higher rates then other companies but with the smaller companies you run the risk of getting fake insurance, so there is a fine line between getting the right price and finding the right company. Research is vital in this stage and the cheapest price might not be the best company and therefore I wouldn’t go with them. Sometimes you’ll need to spend a few extra bucks to ensure that you get the auto insurance from a solid company, but in the end it’s worth it.
Auto insurance is mandatory for drivers to possess and if you get pulled over by the police without any car insurance then you could be fined a hefty amount of money and you could also lose your license depending on the reason why the cop pulled you over. If you get into an accident whether it’s your fault or not and you don’t have insurance then you’ll lose license and also be possibly charged depending on if the accident is your fault or not.

Increase Your Vehicles Safety on the Road

Safety is something that you could never have too much of while driving. There are many things to take into consideration on whether you vehicle is safe or not. Many times when you buy a car you check its safety ratings to ensure that you are getting a safe vehicle for you and your family or friends. However some safety concerns occur after you have been driving that car that was deemed safe. Keep in mind that as your vehicle ages it undergoes changes that could in fact make it less safe than when you originally bought it.

The first thing to look at is your headlights. If they have become hazy, cloudy or discolored this could be a safety concern. Don’t think it is just you, it happens to all cars. It is a process called oxidation. Oxidation is the result of oxygen mixing with different elements and since your car is exposed to many elements day in and day out the oxygen mixing with them creates oxidation. This oxidation shows up in the form of cloudy, hazy or discolored headlights. Not only does it not look good, but it significantly decreases your night visibility. To be more specific it decreases your visibility by 90%. So, to fix this problem you can get headlight restoration. Headlights restoration services can be found at most auto body shops.
Next, take a look at your windshield. If it is cracked, chipped or broken in any way you are really compromising the safety of your vehicle on the road. The windshield of your vehicle is meant to protect you and your passengers from any debris on the road that could potentially enter your car. If your vehicles windshield is cracked or chipped it is weaken as the days go by and will not be as much as a protection as it could be harm. That one little crack could shatter with the smallest contact with debris and send glass shooting into your car. It is important that you get your windshield repaired as soon as you can to avoid replacement and worse injury to passengers and yourself. Some auto body shops will even come to you to fix this repair.
Now take a look at your vehicles bumper. If you have bumper damage either in the front or rear of your vehicles it will have a harder time protecting you, your passengers and your vehicles engine and body. If it has been damaged it is also weakening and making it harder to do its job of protecting what is inside. So, get your bumper repaired at a local qualified auto body shop. It doesn’t take as long as you think and what is more important than safety on the road.
These are just a few things that can impair safety on the road, however they are very important to safety. If your vehicle is in need of any kind of repair be sure to take it to a qualified professional to get it fixed so you can drive safely.

Guide To Change Your Car's Battery

To keep up with your vehicles maintenance it is very important to keep up with a couple things. You want to make sure you take care of your vehicle because if you don’t it will not last as long as it should. You can run your vehicle a long way if you keep up with your vehicle’s maintenance. There are a few things that you need to take care of and change every so often. One of these things is your car’s battery. Changing your car’s battery is something everyone has to do. All vehicles are different and need different batteries. If your car has been running funny and it isn’t easy for it to start you may need to change the battery. Not sure how to change your vehicle’s battery? Read below and you will learn how to do it yourself in no time.
Benefits for learning how to change your vehicles battery: You don’t have to worry about any inconvenience that comes with changing your car’s battery. You don’t need to take it to the shop and follow the hours that the auto mechanics have. Also you can save a ton of money by learning how to do it yourself.
Step by step instructions for changing your car’s battery:
1. First of you all you will want to think about recycling your car’s dead battery. Recycling is a great thing to do.
2. Now make sure your vehicle is turned off and that your car is in park.
3. Lift your car’s hood and look for the battery.
4. Once you’ve spotted the battery you will want to disconnect the cable terminals.
5. Not sure what the cable terminals are? Look for the cables that are black and red (negative and positive).
6. Now you want to dismantle the bracket or frame that holds the battery into position.
7. Once you’ve dismantled them, your battery shouldn’t be tied down. You should be able to take out your car’s battery.
8. Once you see your cable terminals, you can determine whether they are dirty or dusty. If they are you will want to wipe them with water, a wire brush and baking soda.
9. Take a wire brush and graze the inside of the cable terminal. You will want to do this because once you place the new battery in the spot you want to expose the new cables to clean metal instead of dirty.
10. Now place the battery into your vehicle. Make sure you connect the negative and positive cables to the battery. (Note: If they can move easily they aren’t tight enough.)
11. You should be all set. To test your new battery, turn on your vehicle and see if it starts. If it doesn’t star t the first time just go through the steps again and see what mistakes were made.
Changing your vehicle’s car battery is very easy. Changing a battery may sound intimidating but it is really easy. When your vehicle acts up most people just take it to the shop regardless. You want to avoid doing this because you can save a ton of money and learn a few things.

List Of Luxury SUV Hybrids

Luxury SUV hybrids are becoming the popular pick among car consumers nowadays. Look at the number of people opting for these cars in contrast to those who are still buying the conventional ones. The growth is staggering.
The Favorite Pick
However, just like conventional cars, there are also different variants of hybrids. Hence, among these different models there would also be the crowd favorite and as statistics reflect, that would be luxury SUV hybrids. So, as a guide, here are the best hybrid SUVs that consumers of all levels love and adore.
Pick Number One: 2008 Lexus RX 400h

According to various polls, sales records and statistics conducted by authorities, the top SUV to hit the chart would be the Lexus RX 400h. This car actually gives its owners a rare mix of sport efficacy performance along with Lexus luxury with an environmental twist. It actually ranks extremely highly among SUVs in the hybrid category and luxury midsize SUVs.
Without considering its sticker price, reviewers actually praise this luxury SUV hybrid model for its driving performance that is notable comparable to the RX 350, which is its sibling. Additionally, this is a lone pick for the fuel-efficient types, especially within the luxury SUV category.
Experts believe that this model is actually the first to offer its users an ecology-minded no-compromise alternative for users that do not want to sacrifice comfort and for the planet's sake. However, if you would consider the price, you would be better off thinking that you'll be saving the environment and not necessarily money.
This car's performance is considered to be very good along with its sleek and stylish exterior. As for interiors, you'll surely find it comfortable and pretty well equipped.
SUV Hybrid Pick Number Two: Toyota Highlander Hybrid 2008
This car is the second most favorite and best SUV in the hybrid category. This car ranks close to the top of its class since it offers a smooth ride, roomy interior and most of all a refined hybrid powertrain. Nevertheless, some experts feel that its price is too high in contrast to its non-hybrid counterpart. Additionally, it can't match the offered cargo space and sportier handling of other competitors.
Compared to its predecessor, this model is quite larger. It also sports an innovative electric-only mode so that you can improve fuel economy even more. A lot of reviewers are actually pleased with its changes. However, this luxury SUV hybrid has a price that might make you pause.
If you'll consider performance alone, this model also ranks best among the rest. This is because it offers you a very smooth ride that has a lot of power; this is considered to be a pretty rare combination considering that it's a hybrid vehicle.
However, one set-back of this luxury SUV hybrid is that its exteriors are somewhat mediocre. It lacks a bit of uniqueness and seems to simply blend in and not stand out when compared to other SUVs. Nevertheless, its interiors are much pleasing as it offers a spacious cabin compared to what others have.
Pick Number Three: Ford Escape Hybrid 2008

This SUV is very environmentally conscious yet still sports comfortable interiors and a tough exterior. Sadly it still doesn't match the overall quality or level of driving dynamics that other top-class SUVs could offer.
As for power, even though hybrids are known to have lower power, most reviewers are actually pleased with this SUV's capabilities. In fact, this vehicle's performance even ranks over the upper half of its class.
Nevertheless, handling is still not quite balanced. This drawback is said to be due to its powertrain's added weight, which is more over 250 pounds. This significantly affects the car's handling, which is also worsened by its electric power steering, which is a must for any hybrids.
As for the exterior characteristics, most people have mixed emotions on how they perceive this car. Some describe it as muscular, while other people don't really think so. On the other hand, its interiors have has significant improvements. First off, would be the car's cabin comfort along with quality. As soon as you get in, you'll observe the clean, quiet and modern cabin, which has a lot of interior room to offer. Due to these, this car became really worth it to be one of the best hybrid SUVs in the market.

Honda Civic Type R – An Obsession

Neither of Kelly Brook, nor great literature scholars but of a Honda Civic Type R. The thing I loved about the Honda was that the standard Civic was so boring to look at and drive that you seemingly needed at least 65 years of life experience before being able to own one. Don’t get me wrong, just because it was boring to drive doesn’t mean it wasn’t a good car, it was just very safe and sensible and, well it was for old people. The Type R badge didn’t just add a few thousand pounds to the price tag; it transformed the retirement home company car into a snarling piece of motoring exotica that I aspired to own one day if I studied hard.

I’d struggle to win the argument that it looks much different from the standard model, with 17 inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and twin exit exhaust the only obvious external differences. This however was more than enough for me to start salivating and by the time I read the performance figures I needed oxygen. A 2 litre VTEC engine lurked under the bonnet producing 197bhp, revving to a crazy 8,250rpm and dragging the car from 0-60mph in a mere 6.6 seconds. To put it more succinctly, it was as if Honda had strapped a rocket to a mobility scooter.
Inside you weren’t met with the most luxurious cabin but racing seats, white dials and a brushed aluminium gear knob offered further evidence that speed really was the only priority for this car. The gearbox is mounted on the dashboard which appears odd at first but it falls so easily to hand and changes so slickly, you’ll be converted in minutes. Despite it being front wheel drive, the car handled superbly thanks in no small measure to it’s expensive independent rear suspension (something Honda have skimped on with the latest derivative) and communicative feedback through the steering wheel.
Quite rightly in the little Honda’s lifespan (2001 – 2006) it became the biggest selling fast hatchback, smashing all modest targets Honda HQ in Japan had. Priced at a tad under £16,000 and delivering all you could want in a driving experience, this was hardly a surprise.
The big question then is, three years on from graduating from university do I have a Honda Civic Type R on my driveway? Um, no but my ‘I really want one of those’ radar is still twitching very strongly. The very exciting news however is that prices are now reaching a level where this extraordinary car is accessible to the majority – and very possibly me too. A low mileage four-year-old car is now valued at £8,000 (add £400 for air conditioning).
This being a Honda, there should be very little to worry about with a car of this age, the VTEC engine is one of the most reliable in the world and the car itself is well put together, so don’t expect to find doors hanging off. As with any used car though it’s important to check some key points.
Firstly the car was available in red, black and silver. If the one you’re looking at is white it’s an import from Japan which may have an extra 20bhp but will be difficult to insure, will depreciate quickly and will have your Honda dealer running for the horizon. The turning circle isn’t great on the Type R so check the alloy wheels for signs of a struggle against the kerbs and whilst you’re there, have a look at the side skirts for speed hump damage.
Other than that the Type R is as widely praised now as it was when new and with the new model now on sale this version should become more readily available. As a final plus point (if one was needed) it’s faster and handles better than the new model. Right I can’t wait any longer…I’m off to buy one.

2009 Saturn Vue Hybrid

Most experts consider that the 2009 Saturn Vue Hybrid would be the most popular among all hybrids. This kind of expectation may be due to several reasons, mostly related to what the car has to offer its consumers. Nevertheless, Saturn still keeps up with consumer expectations as they continue to improve their Vue model.
Their 2009 model has been the talk of the town lately since it was noted that this car makes use of General Motor’s newest motor system, which is the Two-Mode Green System.




It’s All About The Engine
Since hybrids are known well for their engines, then you should expect this car to have a pretty specialized one. It actually has a gas engine that has 3.6-liter V-6 direct-injection, which has been working its way up the automaker's lineup.
For starters, you should know that the conventional Vue would have an engine that has the ability to make 248 lb-ft of torque and 257 horsepower. Its electric power consequently comes from two transmission integrated 55 kilowatt electric motors. It’s really noteworthy that merely the older model can already be considered to be a mean machine.
What is pretty interesting though is that General Motor actually claims that the fuel economy for their newest model, which is the Vue 2 Mode would be 50% way better in contrast to their gas-only V-6. Additionally they claim that their new model would also have a 500 mile range.
Believe it or not, the 2009 Saturn Vue Hybrid is so powerful that its 0-60 time is actually expected to be about 7.3 seconds. It would also have a maximum towing load fixed at a maximum of 3500 pounds.
The Results Of Good Team Work
What most people don’t know is that this car’s 2-Mode system is actually co-developed with former DaimlerChrysler and BMW. This system actually has the ability for regenerative braking. Another perk would be its engine idle off feature. The system also has various modes like electric-only operation during low speeds, around 30 mph.
The 2-Mode system also has well-organized accessory systems such as the electric power steering. Additionally, this car wouldn’t have any traditional reverse gear. Hence, there’s no more need to worry about doing scary reverse maneuvers, since all your reversing operations would be powered by your car’s electric motors.
Viewing Down Under
The 2009 Saturn Vue Hybrid vehicle doesn’t only impress from the outside nor the inside, but even its down under view can impress anyone. In fact, this model has gone chassis improvements and adjustments, so that it could compensate for its massive 189 pounds of additional heft, which includes stabilizer bar rates and revised springs. It also has recalibrated front struts, along with rear shock absorbers.
The Outer Make-Up
Generally, the physical appearance of the 2009 model is somewhat the same with the older version. In reality, not much has changed visually for this model. However, of course, you would find this car to have 2 Mode badges on its front doors. The bandages could also be found at its rear liftgate.
The car also sports rims that are made up of lightweight aluminum alloy. It also has special tires that are actually low-rolling resistance, which are designed to additional aid you with your fuel savings.
Additionally, subtle changes have been. One of these would be the car’s chrome door handles. In fact, it also has dual exhaust tips and rear and front skid plates that are all made up of chrome. The older version’s tachometer was also replaced with a fuel-efficienct gauge, which also informs you whenever your vehicle is currently on engine-only mode, electric-only mode, or the combination of both. Hence, your gauge also serves to be a reminder that your car is actually turned on, even if you know that your engine is turned off.
The arrival of the Vue Green Line 2 Mode, which is scheduled to go into production in late 2008, questions the future of the existing "mild-hybrid" Vue Green Line. It appears GM is going to keep that model around as a lower-cost alternative, but the presence of two similarly named models may confuse some customers. Pricing and other details of the Vue Green Line 2 Mode will be released closer to launch.
For sure, the 2009 Saturn Vue Hybrid would definitely be a great buy if you’re really on the hunt for something that can save you money and at the same time has a deadly engine!

Review Audi A6 - Fast cars last for ever

Fast cars like Audi A6 last for ever. The new Audi A6 (previously the C6) was unveiled in the year 2005. At that time fast cars like the Audi A6 was a big carhit all over the world. The new Audi A6 was premeditated by Walter de'Silva, the new form is visually a development of the C5, but is longer by 492 cm. It includes the new Audi brand single-frame grille, and has more refined equipment. Its design has been censured, as the grill is approximately closely the same as the Rover 75 V8's, which was released a year before.

Most prominent is the MMI (Multi Media Interface) which is an arrangement calculating in-car entertainment, satellite routing, and climate management, automobile settings like suspension arrangement and optional electronic accessories using a central display interface. This has the benefit of diminishing the amount of buttons usually found on a control panel by substituting them with controls which manage many devices using the incorporated screen.
The engine of the Audi A6 sports a fresh FSI direct injection technology was commenced for the first time outside the race track. Although the line of engines symbolizes the same succession as the previous model, all engines were original.
The Multitronic mechanical transmission persists as a substitute with a new 6-speed Tiptronic gearbox obtainable in the high end models. Quattro stable four wheel drive is existing in most of the array, and typical in the most powerful models. The quattro is not offered on the multitronic alternative of the Audi A6 but can be bought on the physical and Tiptronic gear arrangements.
On the contrary, the Tiptronic scheme is only accessible on the quattro variations of the sedan. The 6-speed manual gearbox is offered with the 3.2L engine but not for the North American market as sales of C5 manuals were sluggish. The Audi A6 comes with other choices of body too. The Avant turned up during the course of the year 2005.
In China, a longer car was brought out in the same year and named the A6 L. The all road (now called A6 all road quattro) model made its first appearance in 2006 and as before is an off-road prepared model of the Avant which is available with either a 2.7 or 3.0 diesel or 3.2 or 4.2 petrol.
The sport model S6 was introduced in the Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales commencing from early 2006. It is power-driven by a Lamborghini-derived 5.2 L V10 FSI delivering 435 PS (320 kW). The S6 attains 60 mph from stationary in 5.1 seconds and the quarter mile is covered in 13.5 seconds.
A powerful RS6 will go on sale early in the year 2008. This will be motorized by a Lamborghini-derived 5.2 LV10 TFSI giving 580 PS (426 kW). The car is well-built and its materials are of high quality. The dashboard is covered with a material which is soft and pliable. Seats are upholstered with leather and the wooden inserts look very elegant and attractive.
Audi A6 sports a comfortable feel and its Bluetooth hands-free cell phone system is excellent. Its backup camera and iPod integration work very well.

Nissan Altima - Easy For The Family Man to Obtain

The economy in the turmoil that it is in and the fact that the government leaders are claiming that we need to bailout the “Big Three” in order to save the nation has led us to believe that without this rescue package we are all doomed. That is why I believe that we should review a few of the newer vehicles like the Nissan Altima to find out if our auto manufacturers are using the money to make good automobiles or just playing with the figures to get more ready cash to throw away. Personally I believe that the auto industry of America is one of the most reliable manufacturers that we as a nation and the world can depend on. The workers take great pride in their work, the industry itself takes pride in their accomplishments, and the reviews that I have read about the newest upcoming vehicles are outstanding. The consumer does not need to worry when it comes to quality and care of making a vehicle. I think that we should all be proud of the standards that not only the government requires of the auto industry but the standards the industry has put into place for them.



The Nissan Altima is one of the many vehicles on the road today that is a four generation vehicle proving its performance. The Nissan Altima on the market for over fifteen years has proven itself to be a great five passenger family sedan with all the performance that appeals to the public. The newest Altima has matured when it comes to its features, finesse and power. This vehicle has proven that family sedans have never been more capable than a Nissan Altima. Competition has never been fiercer than in today’s market. The makers of the Nissan Altima boost of the coupe handling ability. When looking for a vehicle for the family and good transportation you will not go wrong by selecting the Nissan Altima. You get great gasoline mileage with all the improvements you have very little expense if any for maintenance and it is consider one of the safest vehicles on the road.
The newest vehicle starting price is only around $19,000 which makes it easy for the family man to obtain. The price makes this vehicle one of the easiest to obtain providing a great driving experience with a lot of space for the whole family.It’s always beneficial to search for the car you want when you’re in the market to find a car that’s great for the whole family. When considering a purchase, you have to keep value in mind but you also have to remember that you don’t want to go too cheap because you get what you pay for. When you do find the car that you like, look online at reviews and more to see what others think. It’s always best to get an unbiased opinion on something rather than from the dealer. When considering a car, keep the Nissan Altima in mind.

History of The Great Ford Mustang

As far as the consumer is concerned, the history of the great Ford Mustang began when it was shown to the public at New York's World Exhibition. The prototypes had been in existence since 1962, with the Mustang 1 (T-5) being first introduced to the motor racing world at the Watkins Glen Grand Prix where Stirling Moss and Dan Gurney drove it for a few laps each as a demo.
In the early 1960s, Ford desperately needed a new car to compete with the sporty Chevrolet Corsair Monza, and its first attempt, the Falcon Future, failed to compete. A brand new car was needed, and the idea for the Mustang was born. It was sporty and quick and a four seater. It was appealing to youngsters, and the prototype was well received when shown at the motor racing circuits.
It went in production in 1964, and was an instant hit. Its launch on 17th April, 1964 was the beginning of what was to be the most popular car ever in American history, and it sold half a million in its first year. Its customers included every age and it was equally popular to men and women.




Many of its parts were taken from the failed Falcon, and its immediate success had as much to do with the almost perfect advertising campaign as it had to do with looks and speed. The advertising power of the three major television networks was used extensively, and with its distinctive mane and tail galloping across the red, white and blue of America the 'Pony Car' was the phenomenon of its age, representing the flavor of the 1960s more perfectly than its designers could ever have dreamt possible.
It was a car of its day that arrived with perfect timing. Later to be called the 1964 1/2, the original Mustang was available as a convertible and as a coupe, both with chrome wrap-around fenders, the distinctive chrome grill with running pony, and a lengthened hood. Although it claimed to have four seats, the back seat was a bit small and it also sported three tails lights on each side. It has sold a million by 1966, although before that the GT and fastback model had been introduced.
The car continued to progress, and by the end of the 60s had become longer by four inches, and a lot heavier than the original, much of this in response to the development of Chevrolet's Firebird and Pontiac. It was the Corvette, however, that brought the Mustang into the road racing arena. The Mustang was so popular, especially with the young, that Ford were desperate to race it against the Corvette. However, only production two seaters were allowed to race, and to enable them to do this at least 100 two seaters had be produced by January 1965.
This was achieved with the help of Mustang fan and racer, Carol Shelby, who modified 100 of the 2+2 models into GT 350 models, in the process re-equipping them to render them more suitable for racing. The suspension, wheel and brakes were all modified, and the cars were to become the basis of many future models that are even now are much sought after.
During the early 1970s the Mustang lost its way a bit and became a bit too big and unwieldy. The original grace and elan that so attracted early admirers was lost, and it becamejust another car. Part of this was due to emissions regulations, but sales dropped so much that Ford had to rethink its design strategy with the Mustang.
The Mustang II was introduced in 1974, and although it was small and vastly underpowered, it takes its place in the history of the car because it brought to a halt the drop in sales. It sold because of economy in fuel, and the 1973 OPEC fuel embargo. People were afraid that a gas guzzler would hurt their pockets, and so temporarily went for the smaller car. However, this did not last long, and 1975 brought back the V8 engine to the Mustang. However, although it had a 5 liter engine, the carburetor was too small and the catalytic converter combined with that to render it lifeless.
Then came a period of relative stability although there were a few trim changes. Fans must have seen the end coming because the late 1970s saw a slight increase in sales, rather than the drop that model now deserved. The Cobra II and King Cobra versions did little to spark a return to the glory days for the 1960s, and Ford made a last ditch attempt to rewrite the Mustang in 1979. The new Mustang was available as a coup' or fastback with a bit more room inside than the either the original or the ill fated Mustang II.
However, the running horse had gone, and the rear lights lost their distinctive three segments: this expanded to six, while the side scallop also disappeared. It no longer resembled a Mustang! Alterations continued to be made, and the California Highway Patrol found a use for a special coupe model as a high speed pursuit vehicle. With its 157 HP V8 engine, this car was used by a number of law enforcement agent up until 1993, when Ford killed them off.
The fans were wrong, however, and development continued as the Mustang conformed with the coming of fuel injection, air bags and other essential improvements, though the original concept had completely disappeared. In 2005 Ford finally ditched the ancient Fox platform and introduced that now used for the Lincoln and the Thunderbird. The newest Mustang has reverted to some of the original features, and it is a miracle that the car has survived so long.
Nobody involved in 1962 development team would have believed that the great Ford Mustang would still be around 45 years later.

Lamborghini Murcielago Review

A century-old tradition in bullfighting is to spare the life of a bull which shows outstanding courage in the arena. Such a bull was Murcielago, The Bat, spared by a famous matador after a breathtaking fight in the arena of Cordoba, some 130 years ago.
Much like the bull that gave it its name, the Lamborghini Murcielago belongs to a special breed of cars. With its 6,5 liter V12 engine, 640 BHP, an amazing 665 Nm torque and permanent 4-wheel drive, nothing can stand in it's way. 3,4 seconds is all it needs to get to 100 km/h, and if you keep your foot on the gas pedal, it will not stop until you reach a mind-blowing 340 km/h.
But this power comes at a price. The massive 12-cylinder engine requires an average of 21,3 l/100 km, and the car's fuel tank can carry (only!) 100 liters.




This 2-door, 2 seats coupe with a mid-mounted engine follows the traditional design successfully applied by Lamborghini for more than three decades. The gear box placed in front of the engine, the permanent four-wheel drive, along with the integration into the engine unit of the rear differential, are but a few of the advantages of such a displacement which result in an optimal weight distribution, 58% rear and 42% front, with positive effects on the car's handling, braking and traction.
The security of the car is ensured by the carbon fiber body, with steel doors and roof, and a tubular frame made from high-strength steel alloy with carbon fiber structural parts. The stopping power is ensured by power vacuum, aluminum alloy calipers (8 pistons front calipers and 4-pistons rear calipers), ventilated discs, and optional carbon-ceramic brakes, with 6 pistons break calipers (front-rear).
The interior aims for functionality, and lacks any useless or distracting elements. The optional equipment includes an "Interior Carbon Package", where the cover for the driver side display, dashboard cover, handbrake lever, armrest frame, gear lever cover, the air conditioning and radio covers are made entirely from carbon fibre, offering those really demanding customers an extra air of class.
Unlike the older models, the Murcielago brings a touch of practicality through it's design, which allows for more control over the car; however, the rear visibility remains poor.
Its name refers to a bull and a bat, but the Murcielago encompasses their features and beyond; the interior is reasonably comfortable for an exotic car, capable of going 300+ km/h. Used to its full potential, this car can provide one of the most thrilling sensations a driver will ever experience.
Its unique design ensures that it will stay in vogue for a long time. It is precisely the type of car which will keep Lamborghini among the world's top manufacturers, in showrooms, publications and, best of all, in the hearts of the customers.

Review Kia Carnival - An Affordable Option For The Growing Family

If you have a large family and you're on a tight budget, then you may want to take a close look at a one owner Kia Carnival. The Kia Carnival is a people mover in the same vein as the Honda Odyssey, the Chrysler Voyager and the Mazda MPV. However, the Kia Carnival is available at a much more affordable price for the growing family on a tight budget.



The Kia Carnival represents good value for money as, unlike many other Asian people movers, it is powered by a V6 engine while comfortably seating seven people. With the new car price at around $30,000 a good used Kia Carnival will represent true value for money for anyone needing to lug around a growing family on a tight budget. Of course, you will not get the same car as you would with one of the more expensive people movers from Chrysler, Mazda, Honda or Mitsubishi. For example, the ride and handling may not be up to the same standard as the more expensive people movers however this is to be expected from a vehicle that sells for a lot less. This also goes for the finish on the interior. But if your young kids are sitting in the back for long periods, then you may not want anything too fancy on the inside anyway. A bored kid can be quite destructive!
Some of the features available on the Kia Carnival include:

Free 10 Tips To Prevent Car Get Stolen

Prevent Car Get Stolen, so instead of trying to be so alarmed with these figures, it's time for you to take the bull by the horns and get started in doing every bit to prevent car thefts.
1) Lock it up.Lock your vehicle at all times, close all windows and sun roof and take your keys
2) Don't be dumb by hiding keys in your car.Never hide second set of keys in or on your vehicle. The car thieves can outsmart you by knowing all the hiding places.
3) Hide valuablesDon't think about leaving your valuables in your car and left to be seen by the potential car thieves. Items left in the open attract car thieves.
4) Protect Your Data - Beware of Identity fraud.Don't ever leave any important documents such as bank statements, credit card bills/statements, or other personal information in your car. Car thefts can use this vital information against you and steal your bank money by accessing your bank or credit car accounts.
5) Do not dispose your Car registrationSome drivers literally take convenience up to the extreme. They often leave their car registration or car titles inside their car. Doing so may help the car thieves to dispose your car faster than you can ever imagine.
6) Parking StrategyDo you know that parking at the right place may literally prevent car thefts and protect your car altogether? It is best to park in well lit areas with plenty of pedestrian traffic.
7) Stop idling and learn to increase gas mileage.By leaving your car unattended might literally pose a danger to your car of being stolen, especially when you are at the convenient stores or ATMs. The ebook "Gas Mileage Tactics" at http://www.extragasmileage.com will reveal to you that not only learning to stop idling will prevent car thefts, but also the potential wastage of gas and wear and tear of your car. So you'll get two sides of the same coin literally.
8) Prevent Theft by Towing.You'd be surprised that thieves nowadays use tow trucks to steal vehicles. At the most extreme cases, some of them might pose as the bank credit officer and tow your car away in the broad daylight. So always use your emergency brakes and leave your transmission in the park position. You should also turn the wheels toward the curb. Although these steps will not 100% prevent auto thefts, but somehow or rather, this will make up a nightmare for the potential car thieves who use tow trucks to steal vehicles.
9) Park in your garage.If you have a car porch / garage in your house, always park your car at those places and never park them outside of your house. Lock the gates or the garage as well as your car windows.
10) The "One" is not enough.There are many car anti theft devices that are mushrooming in the auto market like nobody's business. Although I will not say that these car anti theft devices may 100% prevent car thefts altogether, but at least it will prolong their time to steal your car and bring them one heck of a tough time to hack into your vehicle. So if you happen to park your car in high theft areas, never rely on just one device alone. Use as many as you can.
Here are some of the car anti theft devices you can use.a) Vehicle AlarmVechile Alarms are one of the most common security alarm in a motorcar today. It pays in actually invest in a good car alarm system. Most auto alarm systems are equipped with motion sensors as well as impact sensors. As series of high-decibel tones are blasted out when somebody is trying to steal your vehicle. High quality car alarm systems may include an automatic kill switch and may also use flashing headlights and horn in addition to sounding the siren.
b) Steering Wheel LockThis is a simple device which looks like a long metal bar with a lock that fits on the steering wheel. When fitted on, it prevents the steering wheel from being turned. It's a pretty inexpensive way to safeguard your car.
c) Starter disablers.There are quite a few of common starter disablers in the market. They serve as the one last extra safeguard to your car in case the car thief has broken into your car. These devices e.g armored collars will prevent them from breaking into the steering column to hot wire the vehicle. Some disablers may be used to prevent the flow of electricity of fuel to the engine, thus making it impossible for the thieves to get the car running.
So here are the top car theft protection tips for you. Apply them and you will see your vehicles better protected.

Towing Vehicle - Free Safety Guide

There are many instances where you may find yourself needing to tow a car. This can happen in the event of a vehicle breakdown or accident or if you are planning to bring it along behind your camper or RV on a family trip. Towing a car requires special care in order to avoid preventable safety issues and injury. Many people commit a series of errors and mistakes when it comes to towing a car. Neglect or ignorance could lead to an accident or fines so make sure you do it right the first time.
Double check that you have everything that you will need to tow your car properly. This includes making sure that the hitch you are using is the right one for your vehicle as well as the weight restrictions. This must match up. If you try to force a hitch to work that is not the right size, the car could come loose while you are towing it. Confirm that all electrical components are working as they should be and secure the safety chains. Make sure that they are secure by testing them first. If you have never hitched a car for towing before, ask someone to show you how it’s done correctly.

Once you have hitched your car up and double checked that everything is as it should be, you are almost ready to get moving. Before you attempt to drive away towing your car though, don’t forget to release the parking brake and put the car into neutral. If you forget to do this you could seriously damage your car since the wheels will resist and remain locked as you attempt to pull it. Make a note of this to prevent mishap.
Pay attention to your speed when you drive with a car being towed behind. If you go too fast you risk placing unnecessary strain on the vehicle. It’s best to stay at a steady pace without slowing and speeding up too often. Drive in the slow lane on the highway so that you do not become an obstruction to those moving much faster than you are. Watch out for others on the road when you are changing lanes or pulling off the highway. If you need to stop, try to do it at a location specified for pit stops. If you stop on the highway you risk causing or becoming involved in an accident.
Make sure that you never tow the car with anything living inside of it. This includes everything from people to pets. It’s a serious safety issue that needs to be mentioned because some people continue to do it. Moving a large, heavy vehicle always has its risks. Do your part to reduce and eliminate them. If you are not experienced with towing a vehicle as you drive, have someone drive who has done it before. It can be difficult to handle driving with all of that additional weight. Share the responsibility so that you are not overwhelmed. Safely towing your car is easy when it’s done correctly and with caution in mind.

Classic Car - Rentals are Growing in Demand

Classic car rentals are growing in demand. This timeless option can enhance any special occasion.
Special days such as weddings or graduations often involve a lot of planning. Having your dream car for your perfect day is a reasonable wish. Even though it’s temporary, the pictures and the memories will last a lifetime. Leaving your wedding in a sweet old Rolls Royce sure beats using your own everyday vehicle. Make your dream come true by checking out rental options near you. The average person cannot usually afford to own a classic vehicle but with a rental you can dress up your day with something unique.

The rental of classic cars is growing in popularity among those getting married. It seems that many couples are looking for alternatives to a limousine and many have certain cars in mind they would love to arrive to their big day in. Certain types of classic cars may be much harder to find than others but finding some in general shouldn’t be all that difficult. Your trouble may lie in availability so you should always make sure to plan ahead. If you make the mistake of waiting too late to book your rental then you may be out of luck. It’s a good idea to reserve it as soon as you book your wedding or special event.
When you do secure your car rental you need to go over a few things. Like with any rental you must be clear on all of the required legal aspects. Insurance is the first thing that you need to ensure is properly in place. If anything were to happen, you don’t want to be responsible for the cost. You also will want to have a look at the car in question before signing any agreements. It should be exactly as you expect. Check the cleanliness and the shape of the car. Make a note of anything that looks amiss or any damages, no matter how minor they are. You don’t want to be faulted for them later.
Have a backup plan just in case. You never know when something could come up. There could be a problem with the car last minute or any other possible occurrence. Keep a backup plan simply so you do not become stuck with nothing. A good rental company will go out of their way to make sure this doesn’t happen but one can never always tell. A classic car rental can be the icing on the cake of perfection. Consider one for your next big event.

Nissan Navara - Comfort and style

The Navara from Nissan is in a class of its own when it comes to comfort and style. Looking tough and sturdy on the outside the new Nissan Navara has all the modern interior comforts you would expect from an SUV as standard in this pickup class.
The double cab is capable of seating up to five people in comfort. The Navara oozes style throughout. It comes with leather upholstery, power seats and cruise control to make your driving experience the most pleasurable you can encounter.

An onboard Birdview DVD satellite navigation system assists you to find the most economical route and the hardest to reach destinations with ease. Mounted on the dashboard near to the steering wheel, the system is easy to control and view without imposing a safety risk.
Nissan have used tough high tensile steel for their F-Alpha ladder chassis which provides extra durability without the weight. The Nissan Navara has a maximum payload of over 1,000kgs. Offering the opportunity to take your goods wherever they need to go with ease.
The endless disputes and disagreements of one person being too hot whilst the another is cold is swiftly settled with one of the newest innovations of dual zone climate control which has been included with the Navara. This enables the driver and front seat passenger to regulate their own temperature settings.
There is no lacking of inside storage space, Nissan have maximised the necessity of storage space which is easy to reach.
Safety features highly on this vehicle. The Nissan Navara has front and back crumple zones have been specifically designed to absorb energy in a crash. These help to protect the reinforced central zone and the occupants.
Both driver and front seat passenger airbags are included as standard with all the Navara models. Providing peace of mind that you and your front seat passenger are given some protection should you be involved in a front impact accident.
Side and curtain airbags are fitted as standard on the Adventura and optional on the Double cabs and Outlaw King. These additional airbags provide an extra safety barrier during side impact accidents for passengers and driver.
Additional protection to minimise injury from whiplash are provided in the sports models and above with the inclusion of active head restraints. These are adjustable the same as a standard head restraint. The additional protection comes from padded head restraint which is linked to the back of the seat with a pressure plate and pivot system. Studies carried out have shown that neck injuries are significantly reduced by active head restraints.
Anti Lock Braking System referred to simply as ABS is fitted to prevent the wheels from locking. This keeps you in control of the vehicle and reduces skidding should you need to brake hard. As braking hard usually increases the payload on the front brakes Nissan have incorporated Electronic Breakforce Distribution which balances the braking distribution of the front and back of the Navara, providing maximum breaking efficiency.
The Nissan Navara is a tough looking vehicle with all the creature comforts and safety features you would expect from Nissan.

Airbags Are Not Designed For Children

Air bags are standard equipment in almost all new cars and are designed to provide supplemental protection provided by safety belts in frontal crashes, with the emphasis on supplemental. Air bags are designed to limit head, neck and chest injuries by creating a cushion between the occupant and the steering wheel, dashboard, windshield and other surfaces.Surveys indicate that as many as 35% of young children ride unrestrained. Air bags pose special hazards for any children who ride unrestrained or incorrectly restrained in the front seat. Pre-crash braking can cause an unrestrained child to be thrown against the dashboard in the vicinity of the passenger air bag. This could activate the airbag and the inflating airbag and its plastic cover can impact the out of position child with sufficient force to seriously injure or even kill the child.

Rear-facing safety seats are designed for use in the rear seat of a vehicle. Placing the infant in the front seat of a motor vehicle with a passenger-side air bag is extremely dangerous as during a forward impact, the rapidly inflating air bag could strike the safety seat with enough force to seriously injure or kill the infant.
Forward-facing safety seats, used for toddlers and older children, will place children closer to the dashboard than the normal adult seating position. Therefore, the safest practice is to place all child safety seats in the back seat of the vehicle. The vehicle seat should be adjusted as far back as possible from the dashboard in instances when you have no other choice but to place a forward-facing safety seat in the front of a vehicle with a passenger-side air bag.
In conclusion a few tips to avoid injuries associated with airbags:
- Always wear seat belts and ensure that all passengers are properly restrained.- Seat children age 12 and under in the rear, properly restrained.- Do no hunch forward over the steering wheel or dashboard- Do not lay your arm on top of the steering wheel; it will be forced backward into your face if the airbag deploys.- Do not allow passengers to rest their feet on the dashboard as their feet and legs will be pushed back at them violently if the airbag deploys.- Sit up straight with your back against the seat and your feet flat on the floor.- Never place books or heavy items on the top of the dashboard- Move the front seats as far back as reasonably possible to allow sufficient space for the airbag to deploy in the event of a crash.- Have pedal extensions installed if your legs are too short to reach pedals comfortably when seated with your chest 25 cm from the steering wheel, or if you cannot see over the steering wheel without leaning forward.
Your car insurance will cover the replacement of you airbag in the event of an accident. It is your responsibility as driver to ensure the safety of all the passengers in your vehicle.

Kia Pro Ceed - Sporty 3 Door Hatch

The sceptics who thought that Kia only made cheap cars will need to re-think. The newest range of Pro Ceed appears to have proven that the most critical will need re-consider their opinion.
Kia have produced a well made sporty looking 3 door hatch which offers exceptional quality for a car of this class. The Pro Ceed is said to be the sporty version of the already popular Ceed range. The new sleek look is in part due to the slightly longer body coloured doors. The door inlays have be given a stylish metallic finish which coordinates with the console of the car adding to the overall stylish appearance of the Pro Ceed.
The exterior style looks impressive. It is complimented by black bezel lamps and trendy alloy wheels which come as standard across the range. Pro Ceed is available in the latest bright colours which includes a very chic white, which is a real head turner.

Taller people will be pleased to know that the interior head room is very generous. Anyone would have to be well over six foot before their head brushed the roof. Back seat passengers are also offered generous head room even with the sloping of the roof. The longer doors enable easy access for rear seat passengers, four people can travel in comfort with the generous back seat leg room allowance.
Kia have given careful consideration to personal comfort. Seats have leather trim and are fully adjustable. The entire range includes air conditioning as standard along with USB and AUX sockets which are iPod compatible. Interior storage has been optimised, the rear seats fold to provide additional luggage space when needed.
The Pro Ceed is easy and relaxing to drive. Road handling is positive even on tight corners. With a six speed gear box the Pro Ceed handles well on both rough and smooth road surfaces. Although not designed as an off-road car, it can handle uneven surfaces pretty well for a car of this class.
Kia are in no doubt as to the quality of their cars, as such they offer an unrivalled 7 year or 100,000 mile warranty across the range. This in itself speaks volumes as to the precision manufacture and careful thought the designers have put into this sporty style car.
With low CO2 emissions and an average 58mpg, the Pro Ceed offers exceptional economy, along with trendy styling and a very competitive pricing. The Kia Pro Ceed range includes two petrol and three diesel engines.
The price range also takes some beating. Approved Kia dealerships are also offering some very tempting special offers, combined with the reduction in VAT, the Pro Ceed offers outstanding value for money.
The Kia Pro Ceed is definitely worth giving serious consideration to for anyone looking to buy a new car with sleek lines and a sporty style. Arrange for a test drive to dispel any doubts you may have had about the quality, road handling and style of a car manufactured by Kia.