by: Jack Hill
Most people do not enjoy buying a car. A survey conducted by CNN revealed that 75% of people would rather visit a dentist than face visiting a car dealership. It's not that people don't want a car - it's just that there are so many pitfalls to negotiate and not everyone can be sure of the right steps to take. Here are a few points to keep in mind to make the process easier.
1. Ask questions, lots of questions. Try to ask sensible questions that will enable you to base your decisions on solid ground. But don't be afraid to just ask and only stop when all your concerns have been properly addressed.
2. Do not let emotion drive you. Pretty cars with all the bells and whistles can blind you to the truth. More often than not you will end up paying more than you need to if you buy with emotion. Be impartial and see the car for what it is and not what you may have fallen in love with.
3. Know exactly what you want before you put a single foot inside the dealership door. An open mind can be easily manipulated, and usually not in your favor. Use brochures, etc, beforehand to determine exactly what you want within your budget, and don't be swayed by smooth talk.
4. Talk to the dealer about the price and not the payments. Dealers who keep referring to the "easy" payments could be avoiding the issue of overall price, and you need to know why. Do your homework and you will know exactly what price fits into a payment plan to fit your budget. But if you focus on payment, you may end up paying more than you bargained for.
5. Know when the time has come to make a decision. That decision could be to walk away, or it could be to close the deal. You should constantly monitor how you feel about the offer being made to you. If it all feels right, then stay with it and see it through. But if you get even just a tiny twinge of something not quite right, be prepared to walk away.
Buying a car is not always easy. It's not something most of us do very often and we all want to make the best use of our money. But with sensible and careful planning, and an awareness of the five points above, you can buy the exact right car for you at the exact right price for you. Happy motoring!
About the author:
Jack Hill is an automotive journalist with a passion for cars of every type and size, which he adequately illustrates at his website: http://www.actcars.comHis main delight is driving his sports car through quiet country lanes, but he feels equally at home driving his wife and three boisterous young sons around in the family saloon.
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Thursday, November 29, 2007
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Driving Safely In The Dark
by: Terry Brown
Safety is a primary concern for all drivers, especially at night. Although there are fewer cars on the road, most fatal car accidents happen at night than any other time of the day. Our ability to see the road ahead is seriously impaired at night. Darkness can dramatically alter the driver's ability to cope with even the most normal driving conditions. As we are more vulnerable to dangerous road situations at night or in low visibility, we should double our preparedness, alertness and common sense when driving at night. Preventive maintenance is one of the best ways to protect ourselves from potentially dangerous situations on the road. Here are some of the most important points to consider when driving in the dark.
The most important difference in night driving is visibility. At night, we become completely dependent on artificial sources of light to help us see and show us where we are going. Highway signs, pedestrians, and other vehicles are more difficult to see at night. Thus, lights, mirrors, and windows are doubly important at night. We should maintain clear, clean and scratch-free mirrors and windows. They should not be clouded by steam, frost, water droplets or tarnished by cracks or scratches.
Your entire car's lighting equipments must be in good condition to ensure safety when driving in the dark. Headlights, Tail Lights, Corner Lights , signal lamps, license plate lights and others all play a big role in your safety when driving at night. Your lights should be turned on during the night especially during periods of rain, snow, hail, sleet or fog. Make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Have it checked by a professional to make sure that all the lights work. Keep your headlights and your windshields clean. Remember that your lights are your only communication with other drivers on the road. Make sure that your windshield is clean, clear and unobstructed so that you can see what's ahead of you. One of the most hazardous habits that that drivers do during the night is "overdriving" the headlights of their vehicles.
Headlights as well as other lights, mirrors, windows, windshields all play an important role in keeping you safe when driving at night. Thus, these auto parts must be maintained in good condition or replaced as soon as they get damaged or defective. Fortunately, you can easily get replacement GMC Parts including GMC Headlights, GMC Mirrors, GMC Window regulators and others. However, you should carefully choose the auto parts you are going to purchase. A good tip is to stick with a reliable and trusted auto parts store. If you want to shop for GMC auto parts the fast and easy way, then online auto parts stores are an excellent choice.
Inner Auto Parts is known as an excellent source of quality, relevant auto information. Now, Inner Auto Parts offers high quality and affordable replacement parts that are manufactured by the best auto parts makers in the industry. GMC Parts from Inner Auto Parts are guaranteed to be durable, high quality and comes at very affordable prices. GMC Parts such as GMC Fenders, GMC Fog Lights , GMC Radiators, GMC Spoilers and others are readily available. You can surely find the best GMC Headlights, taillights and other GMC lights here at Inner Auto Parts.
About the author:
Terry Brown is a 32 year old from Houston Texas, and an enthusiast for anything auto related. He is currently employed as a market analyst by one of the top car parts company in the area. His automotive articles provide valuable source of information for auto enthusiasts like him as well as to those in need of automotive research.
Circulated by Article Emporium
Safety is a primary concern for all drivers, especially at night. Although there are fewer cars on the road, most fatal car accidents happen at night than any other time of the day. Our ability to see the road ahead is seriously impaired at night. Darkness can dramatically alter the driver's ability to cope with even the most normal driving conditions. As we are more vulnerable to dangerous road situations at night or in low visibility, we should double our preparedness, alertness and common sense when driving at night. Preventive maintenance is one of the best ways to protect ourselves from potentially dangerous situations on the road. Here are some of the most important points to consider when driving in the dark.
The most important difference in night driving is visibility. At night, we become completely dependent on artificial sources of light to help us see and show us where we are going. Highway signs, pedestrians, and other vehicles are more difficult to see at night. Thus, lights, mirrors, and windows are doubly important at night. We should maintain clear, clean and scratch-free mirrors and windows. They should not be clouded by steam, frost, water droplets or tarnished by cracks or scratches.
Your entire car's lighting equipments must be in good condition to ensure safety when driving in the dark. Headlights, Tail Lights, Corner Lights , signal lamps, license plate lights and others all play a big role in your safety when driving at night. Your lights should be turned on during the night especially during periods of rain, snow, hail, sleet or fog. Make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Have it checked by a professional to make sure that all the lights work. Keep your headlights and your windshields clean. Remember that your lights are your only communication with other drivers on the road. Make sure that your windshield is clean, clear and unobstructed so that you can see what's ahead of you. One of the most hazardous habits that that drivers do during the night is "overdriving" the headlights of their vehicles.
Headlights as well as other lights, mirrors, windows, windshields all play an important role in keeping you safe when driving at night. Thus, these auto parts must be maintained in good condition or replaced as soon as they get damaged or defective. Fortunately, you can easily get replacement GMC Parts including GMC Headlights, GMC Mirrors, GMC Window regulators and others. However, you should carefully choose the auto parts you are going to purchase. A good tip is to stick with a reliable and trusted auto parts store. If you want to shop for GMC auto parts the fast and easy way, then online auto parts stores are an excellent choice.
Inner Auto Parts is known as an excellent source of quality, relevant auto information. Now, Inner Auto Parts offers high quality and affordable replacement parts that are manufactured by the best auto parts makers in the industry. GMC Parts from Inner Auto Parts are guaranteed to be durable, high quality and comes at very affordable prices. GMC Parts such as GMC Fenders, GMC Fog Lights , GMC Radiators, GMC Spoilers and others are readily available. You can surely find the best GMC Headlights, taillights and other GMC lights here at Inner Auto Parts.
About the author:
Terry Brown is a 32 year old from Houston Texas, and an enthusiast for anything auto related. He is currently employed as a market analyst by one of the top car parts company in the area. His automotive articles provide valuable source of information for auto enthusiasts like him as well as to those in need of automotive research.
Circulated by Article Emporium
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Car Care Tips for Students and Parents
by: ARA
(ARA) - Parents and students will do well to get their vehicles in shape before winter arrives, according to the pros and the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Many breakdowns can be avoided entirely by routine maintenance. The following tips from ASE should give parent and student alike a road map to fall car care.
First things first -- Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.
Engine Performance -- Get engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather will make existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters—air, fuel, PCV, etc.
Fuel -- Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note, too, that a gas tank that’s kept filled helps prevent moisture from forming.
Oil -- Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual -- more often (every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.
Cooling System -- The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) If you’re doing your own work, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a certified auto technician.
Heater/Defroster -- The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.
Windshield Wipers -- Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent; you’ll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.
Battery -- The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly.
A word of caution: Removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data/codes on some newer vehicles. Check your manual. Be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
Lights -- Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.
Exhaust System -- Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.
Tires -- Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires “cool down” before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
Emergencies -- Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.
For more car care tips, visit www.ase.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
Circulated by Article Emporium
(ARA) - Parents and students will do well to get their vehicles in shape before winter arrives, according to the pros and the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Many breakdowns can be avoided entirely by routine maintenance. The following tips from ASE should give parent and student alike a road map to fall car care.
First things first -- Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.
Engine Performance -- Get engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather will make existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters—air, fuel, PCV, etc.
Fuel -- Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note, too, that a gas tank that’s kept filled helps prevent moisture from forming.
Oil -- Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual -- more often (every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.
Cooling System -- The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) If you’re doing your own work, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a certified auto technician.
Heater/Defroster -- The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.
Windshield Wipers -- Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent; you’ll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.
Battery -- The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly.
A word of caution: Removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data/codes on some newer vehicles. Check your manual. Be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
Lights -- Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.
Exhaust System -- Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.
Tires -- Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires “cool down” before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
Emergencies -- Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.
For more car care tips, visit www.ase.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Buying New vs. Used Cars
by: Mantius Cazaubon
New vs used. Which car is right for you? Consider the following.
Owning a brand new car is exciting. But financially speaking, it makes more sense to buy a used car. As soon as you drive a new car off the lot, it loses a great portion of its value. This is because your car is no longer “new”.
New cars lose about 40% of their value within 3 years, then depreciation starts to slow down. Why not buy a used car and allow someone else to take that depreciation hit?
The previous owner will have absorbed the steepest part of the depreciation cycle. At that point the costs of owning and operating the car will be reduced. The money you save on depreciation will surely go a long way.
Another benefit of buying used is lower cost. By buying used you pay less. You will also save on financing costs, insurance premiums, registration and licensing fees. You don’t have to worry about paying sales tax.
As with everything else there are a few downsides to buying a used car. There are greater chances for costly unwarranted repairs. You may very soon have to do major maintenance on your car, including replacing tires, battery, brakes, muffler, and perhaps even the transmission.
A used car is usually less reliable. You don’t know exactly what you’re getting into and how the previous owner treated the car. However, every situation is different and some used models may actually be far more reliable than some new ones.
If you can pay cash, go the new car way. Enjoy the feeling of knowing you're the original owner of a new car in mint condition. Nothing can replace that feeling.
Otherwise do not hang your hat higher than you can reach. Practice financial prudence. Save your money and comfort yourself knowing that one day you will be able to afford that dream car. One day when money is no object.
About the author:
Mantius Cazaubon offers a guide geared towards helping you find the best deals on reliable parts and accessories for your automobile at http://www.toyota-parts-guide.comVisit http://www.toyota-parts-guide.comfor auto parts savings.
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New vs used. Which car is right for you? Consider the following.
Owning a brand new car is exciting. But financially speaking, it makes more sense to buy a used car. As soon as you drive a new car off the lot, it loses a great portion of its value. This is because your car is no longer “new”.
New cars lose about 40% of their value within 3 years, then depreciation starts to slow down. Why not buy a used car and allow someone else to take that depreciation hit?
The previous owner will have absorbed the steepest part of the depreciation cycle. At that point the costs of owning and operating the car will be reduced. The money you save on depreciation will surely go a long way.
Another benefit of buying used is lower cost. By buying used you pay less. You will also save on financing costs, insurance premiums, registration and licensing fees. You don’t have to worry about paying sales tax.
As with everything else there are a few downsides to buying a used car. There are greater chances for costly unwarranted repairs. You may very soon have to do major maintenance on your car, including replacing tires, battery, brakes, muffler, and perhaps even the transmission.
A used car is usually less reliable. You don’t know exactly what you’re getting into and how the previous owner treated the car. However, every situation is different and some used models may actually be far more reliable than some new ones.
If you can pay cash, go the new car way. Enjoy the feeling of knowing you're the original owner of a new car in mint condition. Nothing can replace that feeling.
Otherwise do not hang your hat higher than you can reach. Practice financial prudence. Save your money and comfort yourself knowing that one day you will be able to afford that dream car. One day when money is no object.
About the author:
Mantius Cazaubon offers a guide geared towards helping you find the best deals on reliable parts and accessories for your automobile at http://www.toyota-parts-guide.comVisit http://www.toyota-parts-guide.comfor auto parts savings.
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5 Automotive Tools Every Auto Owner Needs
by: Mike Scurria
Automobiles are sizeable investments. As a car becomes older, its maintenance becomes increasingly important. There are many tools that every auto owner should have. Auto shops can sometimes charge exurbanite amounts for a simple fix that could have been done at home for much cheaper. Having the proper tools and knowledge will allow any auto owner to save money, learn more about their automobile, and maintain their car.
1. Every auto owner should have a jack and jack stands. When working on a car, more often than not, the car must be elevated. Simple procedures like rotating tires can be done at home with the help of a Jack. Additionally, all car owners should have a jack in their car with them wherever they go. In the unfortunate event of a flat tire, having a jack and a spare tire can lead to a simple tire replacement. In a garage, having a powerful jack and strong jack stands makes it possible for an auto owner to reach every point underneath the car and thus solve problems more efficiently.
2. One of the most important car maintenance practices is the oil change. To maintain an automobile, the oil should be changed once every 3,000 miles. Quintessential to a successful oil change is having an Oil Wrench that takes the oil filter off and allows the oil to be changed expediently. Without an oil wrench, an auto owner may be forced to take their car to an auto shop and overpay for a simple oil change.
3. Often when dealing with parts of the engine, or the hard-to-reach spots under the hood, proper tools are required. A 3/8-inch Socket Set can allow an automobile owner to loosen and subsequently tighten a wide variety of bolts. Different extensions allow the auto owner to obtain the best angles for torque and therefore make auto jobs quite a bit easier.
4. When changing oil, having a funnel, some rags, and a bucket is very helpful. Once again, the oil change is one of the most important maintenances for a car, and it can be done easily by anyone. However, many people do not have the proper tools or knowledge for a successful oil change. Having a funnel can also be useful when refilling any other fluids in one’s car. The funnel serves to make sure that fluids do not get over filled, which can lead to significant problems.
5. Finally, every auto owner should have a pair of solid vice grips. Some times a part will just not come loose. Other times, a car part may not seem to be tight enough despite one’s best efforts. Vice grips can hold a wide variety of car parts and allow the user to obtain more leverage for either tightening or loosening a part. When encountering a part that will simply not come loose, many auto owners will give up and take their car to a shop. Having vice grips can help one to avoid this problem.
Unfortunately, there is no car in existence that doesn’t require constant maintenance. However, with the right tools, anyone can fix minor problems and maintain his or her automobile without the assistance of an auto mechanic. The right tools can lead to a longer last vehicle, and large cost savings.
About the author:
Mike Scurria is very interested in automobiles. Learn more at http://www.sjdiscounttools.com.
Circulated by Article Emporium
Automobiles are sizeable investments. As a car becomes older, its maintenance becomes increasingly important. There are many tools that every auto owner should have. Auto shops can sometimes charge exurbanite amounts for a simple fix that could have been done at home for much cheaper. Having the proper tools and knowledge will allow any auto owner to save money, learn more about their automobile, and maintain their car.
1. Every auto owner should have a jack and jack stands. When working on a car, more often than not, the car must be elevated. Simple procedures like rotating tires can be done at home with the help of a Jack. Additionally, all car owners should have a jack in their car with them wherever they go. In the unfortunate event of a flat tire, having a jack and a spare tire can lead to a simple tire replacement. In a garage, having a powerful jack and strong jack stands makes it possible for an auto owner to reach every point underneath the car and thus solve problems more efficiently.
2. One of the most important car maintenance practices is the oil change. To maintain an automobile, the oil should be changed once every 3,000 miles. Quintessential to a successful oil change is having an Oil Wrench that takes the oil filter off and allows the oil to be changed expediently. Without an oil wrench, an auto owner may be forced to take their car to an auto shop and overpay for a simple oil change.
3. Often when dealing with parts of the engine, or the hard-to-reach spots under the hood, proper tools are required. A 3/8-inch Socket Set can allow an automobile owner to loosen and subsequently tighten a wide variety of bolts. Different extensions allow the auto owner to obtain the best angles for torque and therefore make auto jobs quite a bit easier.
4. When changing oil, having a funnel, some rags, and a bucket is very helpful. Once again, the oil change is one of the most important maintenances for a car, and it can be done easily by anyone. However, many people do not have the proper tools or knowledge for a successful oil change. Having a funnel can also be useful when refilling any other fluids in one’s car. The funnel serves to make sure that fluids do not get over filled, which can lead to significant problems.
5. Finally, every auto owner should have a pair of solid vice grips. Some times a part will just not come loose. Other times, a car part may not seem to be tight enough despite one’s best efforts. Vice grips can hold a wide variety of car parts and allow the user to obtain more leverage for either tightening or loosening a part. When encountering a part that will simply not come loose, many auto owners will give up and take their car to a shop. Having vice grips can help one to avoid this problem.
Unfortunately, there is no car in existence that doesn’t require constant maintenance. However, with the right tools, anyone can fix minor problems and maintain his or her automobile without the assistance of an auto mechanic. The right tools can lead to a longer last vehicle, and large cost savings.
About the author:
Mike Scurria is very interested in automobiles. Learn more at http://www.sjdiscounttools.com.
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