Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Monday, March 26, 2007
Simple Ways to Improve Gas Mileage
Gas prices have been growing increasingly higher for the past several years. Everybody wants to save money on gas especially now that the price has been rapidly increasing. One way to save gas is to increase gas mileage.
1. It is very important to keep the car well maintained. The efficiency of the car will be greater and the performance of the car enhanced if proper maintenance is performed. This in turn helps in improving the gas mileage of the vehicle.
2. The tires of the car should always be inflated properly. Tires that are not inflated properly will make the car’s wheels have difficulty rolling and it will then require more energy and would consume more gas. Car owners can save gas by having the tires properly inflated. Check the air in your tires each time the weather changes dramatically from hot to cold to ensure that tire pressure has not changed.
3. Cars that are heavily loaded consume more gas. It is recommended that unnecessary weight be removed from the car. The lighter the car’s load, the less gas is consumed. Carriers can add weight to the car and should be removed when not in use.
4. Drive smoothly. If the driver uses the brakes a lot and then suddenly speeds up, or if the car is accelerated abruptly will result in greater fuel consumption. Therefore, it is recommended that you drive smoothly to improve gas mileage.
5. Always keep the car clean and washed. It is also recommended that the car be waxed regularly. This helps by improving aerodynamics and can help in improving gas mileage.
6. Another way to improve gas mileage is by saving on ventilation. A car’s air conditioner uses more gas when being used. The air conditioner may be turned off and the windows opened when driving slowly - weather permitting. However, it is not recommended to open the windows when driving fast since it adds extra pressure and drag on the vehicle.
These simple ways can each help improve gas mileage a bit but when done regularly and in combination will help save a great deal of money.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Purchasing a Brand New Sports Car
Driving around town in a brand new sports car may be one of the best experiences for a driver.
Sports cars don't only give superior driving performance and comfort; they also give confidence to the owner of the car. Sports cars can be seen as the ultimate “eye candy” in the automobile world.
Buying a brand new sports car can also be a scary thing because of the money involved. How do you shop for a brand new sports car? Here are some helpful tips in doing so:
1) Think about it a hundred times There is a big difference in buying a sports car and a sedan. There is also a big difference in between a brand new model and an older one. A buyer must carefully assess his needs several times before deciding to buy a brand new model. This is particularly true if the budget is quite tight. But even if one can generously afford a brand new model, he must remember that money that is put in the wrong car is wasted money.
A buyer should also consider waiting for a little while if he/she is looking at a particular model which is new but is on the verge of being taken off the "brand new" list. This move could save him/her a lot of money while getting the same value that he/she would have gotten a few months back. This is an effective strategy if he/she intends to keep the car for a long time.
2) List and Check A buyer should make a checklist of what he/she wants in a sports car. He/she should then compare the top scorers in his/her list. Factors such as size, comfort, engine performance and other details may be the deciding factor for the purchase.
3) Mind the Sticker Price Always bear in mind that the sticker price is the highest price that the market can put on a particular model. Negotiations can bring the price down if done correctly.
4) Financing First A buyer must make provisions for financing before making a purchase. Banks may be the best choice for car financing but the approval process can take some time. A buyer must also set extra money aside for peripheral expenses such as taxes and documents processing.
A brand new sports car is a dream for everyone. When someone has the capacity to realize the dream of buying a sports car, he/she must be wise and careful in doing so.
A good purchase will make the sports car experience much more pleasant for the buyer.
Sports cars don't only give superior driving performance and comfort; they also give confidence to the owner of the car. Sports cars can be seen as the ultimate “eye candy” in the automobile world.
Buying a brand new sports car can also be a scary thing because of the money involved. How do you shop for a brand new sports car? Here are some helpful tips in doing so:
1) Think about it a hundred times There is a big difference in buying a sports car and a sedan. There is also a big difference in between a brand new model and an older one. A buyer must carefully assess his needs several times before deciding to buy a brand new model. This is particularly true if the budget is quite tight. But even if one can generously afford a brand new model, he must remember that money that is put in the wrong car is wasted money.
A buyer should also consider waiting for a little while if he/she is looking at a particular model which is new but is on the verge of being taken off the "brand new" list. This move could save him/her a lot of money while getting the same value that he/she would have gotten a few months back. This is an effective strategy if he/she intends to keep the car for a long time.
2) List and Check A buyer should make a checklist of what he/she wants in a sports car. He/she should then compare the top scorers in his/her list. Factors such as size, comfort, engine performance and other details may be the deciding factor for the purchase.
3) Mind the Sticker Price Always bear in mind that the sticker price is the highest price that the market can put on a particular model. Negotiations can bring the price down if done correctly.
4) Financing First A buyer must make provisions for financing before making a purchase. Banks may be the best choice for car financing but the approval process can take some time. A buyer must also set extra money aside for peripheral expenses such as taxes and documents processing.
A brand new sports car is a dream for everyone. When someone has the capacity to realize the dream of buying a sports car, he/she must be wise and careful in doing so.
A good purchase will make the sports car experience much more pleasant for the buyer.
Tips on Buying Pre-owned Sports Cars
Sometimes the best buys are made with pre-owned products. This is particularly true in the case of sports cars. Many people would like to have a sports car mainly for the performance but some may want to simply experience the sheer enjoyment that only a sport’s cars can give.
Buying a brand new sports car may be too much expense for many people, that's why a pre-owned or second hand sports car should be considered.
Here is some good advice in the purchasing of pre-owned sports cars:
Buying a brand new sports car may be too much expense for many people, that's why a pre-owned or second hand sports car should be considered.
Here is some good advice in the purchasing of pre-owned sports cars:
1. Set expectations Many people go out to buy a pre-owned sports car with a brand new car in mind. Buying pre-owned sports cars is about getting the best value for your money. Knowing your needs and preferences is also a must in buying pre-owned sports cars.
2. Set a budget Buying a sports car, even pre-owned ones can be expensive. Research through internet browsing or buying “buy and sell” car magazines can give a buyer a general feeling about the current prices of different sports car models.
3. Examine carefully A buyer must be careful when inspecting the pre-owned car and take his time doing so. There are four essential elements of the car that should be thoroughly inspected:
- the interior
- the body
- the engine
- and the papers
A well-maintained sports car is worth buying. Open the hood and examine the car's engine. Many people may not know too much about car electronics but inspection will give a buyer a general feel of how the car has been maintained by the previous owner.
Check the inside of the tailpipe. If it is greasy, that means that there is a problem with the engine compression.
Check for scratches or dents on the cars body.
Of course, do not forget to check the car’s title, etc. Missing papers will cost the buyer additional money or prevent the purchase.
4. Test Drive Before a purchase, the buyer should take the car for a test drive. This is a “must” for all cars, not only for pre-owned ones. An assessment of the over-all handling and performance of the car should be made during the test drive.
Buying a pre-owned may be the best choice in purchasing a sports car, especially when one is faced by budget constraints. Pre-owned sports cars have the potential to give the same excitement and fun that brand new ones can give.
Choose and buy wisely and have fun while doing so.
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Protection from Acid Rain, Dust, Dirt
"Strive for perfection in everything.
Take the best that exists and make it
better. If it doesn't exist, create it. Accept
nothing nearly right or good enough."
Sir Henry Royce, co-founder of Rolls Royce
Take the best that exists and make it
better. If it doesn't exist, create it. Accept
nothing nearly right or good enough."
Sir Henry Royce, co-founder of Rolls Royce
After your car's paint has been rained on, the water begins to evaporate. as the droplets become smaller and smaller, the concentration of hydrochloric acid in the water intensifies to the point that it can damage your paint! (It looks like a water spot, but on closer examination, it is actually a crater eaten away by the evaporated droplet.) Sunshine after a rain accelerates this process! Therefore, you need the best protection you can get. If you are unable to keep you car or truck in a garage, then the next best solution is a weather shield car cover fabric.
There are many manufacturers out there of car cover protectors. I look for the following qualities in my car and truck cover protection:
- The latest generation of car cover fabrics that are made of a less bulky material
- Water-shedding technology with the same breathable fabric used in waterproof hiking outerwear
- No outside lamination or water-resistant coating that can wear off
- The fabric should be spun from polyester and the fibers fully encapsulated to be water-resistant
- When you take it off after a rain storm and give it a good shake the remaining moisture should dry off within minutes
- It should be compact enough to easily fit into any washer or dryer for cleaning
- It should be custom-made to fit your car or truck like a glove
Prices vary from $169 and up for indoor protection and $250 and up for all-weather fabrics.
Sunday, March 4, 2007
The Best 2006 Sports Cars
Sports cars are fascinating vehicles. Their features make them stand out among other car types. But there still is competition among sports cars. It is fascinating to talk about these sports cars and why they stand out above their contemporaries.
Here are some of the 2006 vehicles that made the list of best sports car and the qualities that made them above average.
- Audi A3 2.0T
This car goes beyond the beauty of its exterior. Car enthusiasts appreciate the car's responsiveness and agility.
Audi A3 2.0T comes with an intercooled, turbo charged engine with 2.0 liter capacity and 16 valves. The car promises to deliver power up to 197 mph at 5100 rpm.
Other features include a six speed manual transmission, front-wheel type of driveline, 101.5 in. wheelbase and curb weight of 3300 - 3350 lbs.
- Chevrolet Corvette
The car's V-8 engine (7.0 liter) with 16 valves allows for greater speed, and because the car is lighter than regular cars, the Chevrolet Corvette is capable of accelerating up to 125 mph in 12 seconds within one-fourth of a mile.
The car's braking system is impressive. The car's reflex is also astounding.
The car comes with the following specifications: rear-wheel type of driveline, and curb weight within 3100 - 3300 lbs.
-Honda Accord
The car comes with its fresh look: revised interiors, rear and front styling, and better sound-minimizing capability.
Honda Accord still boasts of its qualities such as high value for resale, excellent construction and reliability.
V6 Accords are equipped with a new stable system and improved suspension.
This car also has the following specifications: front- wheel type of driveline, 3100 to 3600 lbs. curb weight, up to 107.9 in. wheelbase and 5 or 6 speed manual transmission.
- Porsche Boxster
The Porsche Boxster speaks well about its balance. Pair this quality with an increase in power delivered by its 24-valve DOHC engine with 2.7 liters capacity.
The braking system is as remarkable as is the car's over-all aggressive appeal.
Other features of the car include:
A rear-wheel type of driveline, 95.1 in. wheelbase, and curb weight within 2900 -3100 lbs.
Truly, sports cars did evolve and they will continue to evolve as long as there is competition. Car enthusiasts can expect more remarkable features in sports cars as years go by.
Here are some of the 2006 vehicles that made the list of best sports car and the qualities that made them above average.
- Audi A3 2.0T
This car goes beyond the beauty of its exterior. Car enthusiasts appreciate the car's responsiveness and agility.
Audi A3 2.0T comes with an intercooled, turbo charged engine with 2.0 liter capacity and 16 valves. The car promises to deliver power up to 197 mph at 5100 rpm.
Other features include a six speed manual transmission, front-wheel type of driveline, 101.5 in. wheelbase and curb weight of 3300 - 3350 lbs.
- Chevrolet Corvette
The car's V-8 engine (7.0 liter) with 16 valves allows for greater speed, and because the car is lighter than regular cars, the Chevrolet Corvette is capable of accelerating up to 125 mph in 12 seconds within one-fourth of a mile.
The car's braking system is impressive. The car's reflex is also astounding.
The car comes with the following specifications: rear-wheel type of driveline, and curb weight within 3100 - 3300 lbs.
-Honda Accord
The car comes with its fresh look: revised interiors, rear and front styling, and better sound-minimizing capability.
Honda Accord still boasts of its qualities such as high value for resale, excellent construction and reliability.
V6 Accords are equipped with a new stable system and improved suspension.
This car also has the following specifications: front- wheel type of driveline, 3100 to 3600 lbs. curb weight, up to 107.9 in. wheelbase and 5 or 6 speed manual transmission.
- Porsche Boxster
The Porsche Boxster speaks well about its balance. Pair this quality with an increase in power delivered by its 24-valve DOHC engine with 2.7 liters capacity.
The braking system is as remarkable as is the car's over-all aggressive appeal.
Other features of the car include:
A rear-wheel type of driveline, 95.1 in. wheelbase, and curb weight within 2900 -3100 lbs.
Truly, sports cars did evolve and they will continue to evolve as long as there is competition. Car enthusiasts can expect more remarkable features in sports cars as years go by.
The Beauty that Sports Cars Possess
Cars, in general, possess both form and function. The designers did not compromise aesthetics with performance.
However, there is something about sports cars that make them stand out when it comes to beauty. And we are not talking about external features only.
There is more to physical features like, sleekness of the car, that determine its beauty.
Here are some of the characteristics that endear sports cars to car enthusiasts.
- Sports cars have attitude at first glance.
Sports cars speak the attitude that they possess. They are not like mere cars whose presence can be ignored. They captivate the eyes of those who see them. They imply that thrill and enjoyment van be expected when their hands are those that control the wheel.
Sports cars stand above other cars, that are seen very day, primarily because the designs imply what they are capable of doing. A sleek look really matches a car with sleek activities.
- Sports cars possess greater power.
Their power comes from their more powerful engines and has other specifications than other the cars have. A sports car can do more than ordinary tasks because of the features that only they possess.
- Sports cars are made for driving pleasure.
Ordinary cars make driving monotonous and boring, while on the other hand, sports cars primarily aim to give the drivers a "high" feeling of speed and control. Only sports cars can provide that need for drivers who seek adventure.
Sports cars bring the thrill back to driving. They express what other cars can not. Sports cars are not designed just for practicality, but for pleasure too.
- Sports cars are made for drivers who enjoy their ‘wild side’.
Drivers do have the need to express this ‘wild side’. Sports cars make any road a venue to satisfy those needs. Only sports cars can match the “wildness" that drivers innately have. For that reason, sports cars perfectly compliment the child in every driver.
- Sports cars have evolved and improved through the years.
Drivers appreciate the improvements that have been made to sports cars. You could say that sports car technology has infinite possibilities. The stereotypes of sports cars have long been debunked. Those limits have been crossed. The only thing that car enthusiasts can do is to watch as these improvements unfold before their very eyes.
- Sports cars make their owners feel good about themselves.
Sports cars are lifeless. They cannot feel proud because they are beautiful, but their owners take pride in having them.
With all these things said about the intrinsic and extrinsic beauty that sports cars possess, only a person who does not appreciate their beauty and/or speed will not opt to get one.
However, there is something about sports cars that make them stand out when it comes to beauty. And we are not talking about external features only.
There is more to physical features like, sleekness of the car, that determine its beauty.
Here are some of the characteristics that endear sports cars to car enthusiasts.
- Sports cars have attitude at first glance.
Sports cars speak the attitude that they possess. They are not like mere cars whose presence can be ignored. They captivate the eyes of those who see them. They imply that thrill and enjoyment van be expected when their hands are those that control the wheel.
Sports cars stand above other cars, that are seen very day, primarily because the designs imply what they are capable of doing. A sleek look really matches a car with sleek activities.
- Sports cars possess greater power.
Their power comes from their more powerful engines and has other specifications than other the cars have. A sports car can do more than ordinary tasks because of the features that only they possess.
- Sports cars are made for driving pleasure.
Ordinary cars make driving monotonous and boring, while on the other hand, sports cars primarily aim to give the drivers a "high" feeling of speed and control. Only sports cars can provide that need for drivers who seek adventure.
Sports cars bring the thrill back to driving. They express what other cars can not. Sports cars are not designed just for practicality, but for pleasure too.
- Sports cars are made for drivers who enjoy their ‘wild side’.
Drivers do have the need to express this ‘wild side’. Sports cars make any road a venue to satisfy those needs. Only sports cars can match the “wildness" that drivers innately have. For that reason, sports cars perfectly compliment the child in every driver.
- Sports cars have evolved and improved through the years.
Drivers appreciate the improvements that have been made to sports cars. You could say that sports car technology has infinite possibilities. The stereotypes of sports cars have long been debunked. Those limits have been crossed. The only thing that car enthusiasts can do is to watch as these improvements unfold before their very eyes.
- Sports cars make their owners feel good about themselves.
Sports cars are lifeless. They cannot feel proud because they are beautiful, but their owners take pride in having them.
With all these things said about the intrinsic and extrinsic beauty that sports cars possess, only a person who does not appreciate their beauty and/or speed will not opt to get one.
64 MECHANIC'S WAYS TO MAKE YOUR CAR LAST LONGER
Every 2 weeks or 3,000 miles:
1. Check engine oil, transmission fluid and coolant.
Once a month or 1,000 miles:
2. Check tire pressure - with tire gauge.
3. Check transmission fluid.
4. Check brake fluid.
5. Wax car (to protect finish).
6. Check belts and hoses.
Every 3 months or 3,000 miles:
7. Change oil and oil filter (every 6 months or 3,000 miles).
8. Lubricate chassis.
9. Check transmission fluid.
10. Check all drive belts (fan belts) frayed or cracked belts.
Every 6 months or 6,000 miles:
11. Change oil and filter (every 6 months or 3,000 miles).
12. Inspect suspension.
13. Rotate tires.
Every 12 months or 12,000 miles:
14. Flush radiator, replace anti-freeze, check air conditioning system.
15. Replace air filters.
16. Lubricate chassis.
Every 2 years or 24,000 miles:
17. Replace spark plugs (30,000 miles average suggested for unleaded gas) and PC valve.
18. Change automatic transmission fluid, filter and pan gasket.
19. Inspect brake linings.
Every 3 years or 30,000 miles:
20. Check and test ignition wires (replace if needed).
21. Test cooling system and heating hoses (replace if needed).
22. Check drive belts (replace if needed).
23. Replace fluid in differential and manual transmission.
Every 50,000 miles:
24. Check brake shoes (replace if needed)
25. If you have a major repair to do, it's wise to get at least 3 estimates, if possible, before you decide.
26. Read and follow your car owner's manual - it's your car's bible for making your car last longer.
27. Whether you are a man, woman, boy or girl, learn to do some routine maintenance on your car yourself. A multitude of books, videos, magazines and classes are available at your local library that will teach you for free if you don't know. Learn how to check your own oil, transmission fluid, tire pressure and
coolant, etc.
28. If you find a good mechanic who you can trust, stick with him even if his prices are a bit higher - all things being equal. You'll always save time, money and aggravation in the long run.
29. Don't race or gun your engine when you start it up. Accelerate slowly and smoothly when your engine is cold.
30. Avoid burning rubber - it places excessive wear on the transmission, rear end, not to mention your tires.
31. An international tire company estimated that 33% of all tires on the road are under-inflated (low air). Under-inflated tires wear out quicker and have a tendency to blow out easier.
32. A garaged car lasts longer. A car port is next best, and a car cover is a distant third.
33. Avoid jackrabbit starts and stops. Stop and accelerate gradually.
34. Avoid tailgating, tire squealing turns, flying over speed bumps, pot holes and revving your engine.
35. When possible, avoid driving your car during rush hour stop and go traffic periods.
36. Keep front-end aligned, for longer tire life and better gas mileage.
37. Make sure you get promised repairs in writing including how much it will cost.
38. Avoid car dealers except to have highly specialized repairs done that can't be done properly anywhere else.
39. It's hard to be overcharged when you get three estimates before you have the work done.
40. Beware: Cheapest is not always the best. Normally, the best mechanics with the best equipment and training cost more.
41. Often mechanics that charge extremely low prices have inferior or out-dated equipment, little to no formal training or are under-insured.
42. Complex electrical problems are so involved that serious electrical work should be done in an "Auto Electric" shop. They have the equipment, tool and training to do the job more efficiently than the average mechanic.
43. If your car has "Cruise Control" use it. Using cruise control will save you 5% to 10% of a gallon of gas on long trips.
44. Avoid constantly pressing and releasing the accelerator when driving. This practise not only wastes fuel, but it puts excessive wear on the drive train of your car.
45. Don't ride your brake pedal, this wears out your brake linings pre-maturely, and wastes fuel.
46. Driving with your windows all the way down at higher speeds, will waste 10% more gallons of gasoline than driving with them closed.
47. Research by a major car manufacturer has revealed that neglect of proper routine maintenance is the number one reason for the enormous increase in car repairs being required.
48. Tires purchased at department stores such as Sears, Montgomery Wards, K-Mart etc., can be an excellent value because many are made by leading tire manufacturers. For a list of what manufacturer makes which tires for what department store, write
to: Tire Information Center, P.O. Box 677, Syosset, NY 11791
49. When purchasing or changing tires, make sure you have them spin balanced.
50. Avoid cleaning your windshield with a dry rag or towel. Always dampen with water or some other cleaning liquid. Dry towels grind and scratch your windshield hindering your visibility.
51. Avoid turning on the car air-conditioning while running at highway speeds as this tends to put an immediate heavy load on your compressor and clutch. This could cause excessive wear and tear on these components. Instead turn your air conditioner on
at car speeds below 25 to 30 m.p.h. This helps to preserve your expensive compressor.
52. Try to avoid running your car with the tank low on gas. Keeping a low tank of gas increases the chance of dirt, water/moisture and rust forming in your fuel system. Keeping a full tank decreases the chance of dirt and other foreign matter forming in
your fuel system.
53. Tires driven at 70 m.p.h. wear out almost twice as fast as cars that go 50 m.p.h.
54. A government study has confirmed, the top three causes of car breakdowns while on the road are: (a) running out of gas (b) tire troubles (c) cooling system problems (overheating).
55. The best as well as the easiest ways to find a good car repair shop is by recommendation or referrals from satisfied customers.
56. To work on a late model computer-controlled engines, make sure the shop you choose has the equipment to handlecomputer-electric service/repair. Sophisticated diagnostic equipment is a must.
57. To choose the right repair shop for you, it's wise to have a small or minor maintenance or repair job done first to see how the repair shop and mechanic treat you and your car.
58. Give detailed description of your car's problem when you take it in for repairs. The more you can describe what your car is doing or not doing (thumping, squealing, clacking sound, etc.) the faster and less it will cost for your mechanic to fix it.
59. When in doubt about the cost of a repair or a mechanic's honesty get a second opinion. This is one of the best ways to protect yourself from being ripped-off until you can find a permanent repair shop.
60. Regular oil changes are the most important thing you can do to protect your engine and make it last longer.
61. If you have a manual transmission, downshift to slow your car down instead of using your brakes. This will save wear and tear on your braking system.
62. Each time you have your engine oil checked, have your transmission fluid checked also.
63. Protect your car's interior and make it last longer - park your car in the shade or place a windshield guard or cover in the windshield.
64. If you spill something inside your car, clean it up immediately before it dries. Delaying even 30 minutes can sometimes leave a permanent stain or spot. NOTE: To better protect your car seats have them treated with Scotchguard.
NOTE: According to current auto insurance statistics, the average U.S. car's useful life is 10 years or 100,000 miles. By following proper preventative maintenance you can often double your car's useful life, and spend less time visiting your local
mechanic.
1. Check engine oil, transmission fluid and coolant.
Once a month or 1,000 miles:
2. Check tire pressure - with tire gauge.
3. Check transmission fluid.
4. Check brake fluid.
5. Wax car (to protect finish).
6. Check belts and hoses.
Every 3 months or 3,000 miles:
7. Change oil and oil filter (every 6 months or 3,000 miles).
8. Lubricate chassis.
9. Check transmission fluid.
10. Check all drive belts (fan belts) frayed or cracked belts.
Every 6 months or 6,000 miles:
11. Change oil and filter (every 6 months or 3,000 miles).
12. Inspect suspension.
13. Rotate tires.
Every 12 months or 12,000 miles:
14. Flush radiator, replace anti-freeze, check air conditioning system.
15. Replace air filters.
16. Lubricate chassis.
Every 2 years or 24,000 miles:
17. Replace spark plugs (30,000 miles average suggested for unleaded gas) and PC valve.
18. Change automatic transmission fluid, filter and pan gasket.
19. Inspect brake linings.
Every 3 years or 30,000 miles:
20. Check and test ignition wires (replace if needed).
21. Test cooling system and heating hoses (replace if needed).
22. Check drive belts (replace if needed).
23. Replace fluid in differential and manual transmission.
Every 50,000 miles:
24. Check brake shoes (replace if needed)
25. If you have a major repair to do, it's wise to get at least 3 estimates, if possible, before you decide.
26. Read and follow your car owner's manual - it's your car's bible for making your car last longer.
27. Whether you are a man, woman, boy or girl, learn to do some routine maintenance on your car yourself. A multitude of books, videos, magazines and classes are available at your local library that will teach you for free if you don't know. Learn how to check your own oil, transmission fluid, tire pressure and
coolant, etc.
28. If you find a good mechanic who you can trust, stick with him even if his prices are a bit higher - all things being equal. You'll always save time, money and aggravation in the long run.
29. Don't race or gun your engine when you start it up. Accelerate slowly and smoothly when your engine is cold.
30. Avoid burning rubber - it places excessive wear on the transmission, rear end, not to mention your tires.
31. An international tire company estimated that 33% of all tires on the road are under-inflated (low air). Under-inflated tires wear out quicker and have a tendency to blow out easier.
32. A garaged car lasts longer. A car port is next best, and a car cover is a distant third.
33. Avoid jackrabbit starts and stops. Stop and accelerate gradually.
34. Avoid tailgating, tire squealing turns, flying over speed bumps, pot holes and revving your engine.
35. When possible, avoid driving your car during rush hour stop and go traffic periods.
36. Keep front-end aligned, for longer tire life and better gas mileage.
37. Make sure you get promised repairs in writing including how much it will cost.
38. Avoid car dealers except to have highly specialized repairs done that can't be done properly anywhere else.
39. It's hard to be overcharged when you get three estimates before you have the work done.
40. Beware: Cheapest is not always the best. Normally, the best mechanics with the best equipment and training cost more.
41. Often mechanics that charge extremely low prices have inferior or out-dated equipment, little to no formal training or are under-insured.
42. Complex electrical problems are so involved that serious electrical work should be done in an "Auto Electric" shop. They have the equipment, tool and training to do the job more efficiently than the average mechanic.
43. If your car has "Cruise Control" use it. Using cruise control will save you 5% to 10% of a gallon of gas on long trips.
44. Avoid constantly pressing and releasing the accelerator when driving. This practise not only wastes fuel, but it puts excessive wear on the drive train of your car.
45. Don't ride your brake pedal, this wears out your brake linings pre-maturely, and wastes fuel.
46. Driving with your windows all the way down at higher speeds, will waste 10% more gallons of gasoline than driving with them closed.
47. Research by a major car manufacturer has revealed that neglect of proper routine maintenance is the number one reason for the enormous increase in car repairs being required.
48. Tires purchased at department stores such as Sears, Montgomery Wards, K-Mart etc., can be an excellent value because many are made by leading tire manufacturers. For a list of what manufacturer makes which tires for what department store, write
to: Tire Information Center, P.O. Box 677, Syosset, NY 11791
49. When purchasing or changing tires, make sure you have them spin balanced.
50. Avoid cleaning your windshield with a dry rag or towel. Always dampen with water or some other cleaning liquid. Dry towels grind and scratch your windshield hindering your visibility.
51. Avoid turning on the car air-conditioning while running at highway speeds as this tends to put an immediate heavy load on your compressor and clutch. This could cause excessive wear and tear on these components. Instead turn your air conditioner on
at car speeds below 25 to 30 m.p.h. This helps to preserve your expensive compressor.
52. Try to avoid running your car with the tank low on gas. Keeping a low tank of gas increases the chance of dirt, water/moisture and rust forming in your fuel system. Keeping a full tank decreases the chance of dirt and other foreign matter forming in
your fuel system.
53. Tires driven at 70 m.p.h. wear out almost twice as fast as cars that go 50 m.p.h.
54. A government study has confirmed, the top three causes of car breakdowns while on the road are: (a) running out of gas (b) tire troubles (c) cooling system problems (overheating).
55. The best as well as the easiest ways to find a good car repair shop is by recommendation or referrals from satisfied customers.
56. To work on a late model computer-controlled engines, make sure the shop you choose has the equipment to handlecomputer-electric service/repair. Sophisticated diagnostic equipment is a must.
57. To choose the right repair shop for you, it's wise to have a small or minor maintenance or repair job done first to see how the repair shop and mechanic treat you and your car.
58. Give detailed description of your car's problem when you take it in for repairs. The more you can describe what your car is doing or not doing (thumping, squealing, clacking sound, etc.) the faster and less it will cost for your mechanic to fix it.
59. When in doubt about the cost of a repair or a mechanic's honesty get a second opinion. This is one of the best ways to protect yourself from being ripped-off until you can find a permanent repair shop.
60. Regular oil changes are the most important thing you can do to protect your engine and make it last longer.
61. If you have a manual transmission, downshift to slow your car down instead of using your brakes. This will save wear and tear on your braking system.
62. Each time you have your engine oil checked, have your transmission fluid checked also.
63. Protect your car's interior and make it last longer - park your car in the shade or place a windshield guard or cover in the windshield.
64. If you spill something inside your car, clean it up immediately before it dries. Delaying even 30 minutes can sometimes leave a permanent stain or spot. NOTE: To better protect your car seats have them treated with Scotchguard.
NOTE: According to current auto insurance statistics, the average U.S. car's useful life is 10 years or 100,000 miles. By following proper preventative maintenance you can often double your car's useful life, and spend less time visiting your local
mechanic.
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