Disposable Car Mats

Disposable mats are generally used by car manufacturers to keep a car fresh and tidy. These inexpensive covers are a must to maintain new cars until the date of sale and delivery to the customer. These mats are also used to protect freshly shampooed car carpets. They stay dry even if the carpet retains moisture from shampooing.

Car manufacturers can get these disposable car mats customized. The mats can be printed with the company logo and a personalized message to the customer. Some companies also have their contact address or telephone number printed on the mats. Used in this manner, it becomes a functional advertising tool.

Disposable floor protection mats are a great inexpensive way to keep vehicles clean. These are not generally used for regular usage by car owners. Certain occasions that incur a lot of usage may warrant the use of disposable car mats.

The use of disposable car mats protects cloth, vinyl, and leather car mats from dirty footwear, chemicals, and grease that can soil car mats. Disposable car mats can also be used if car mats are damp for any reason. They act as an insulator and ensure that the mats do not get further dirtied due to usage while wet.

Disposable car mats are manufactured using materials like specially processed paper, specially processed plastic or functional fabric. While the paper and plastic ones act as an insulator from moisture, those made with special fabric can absorb and encapsulate liquids at a significant rate. The advantage of fabric disposable mats is that they absorb moisture and also have a moisture-resistant barrier.

Such mats are used by car owners when they foresee heavy usage and the possibilities of spills and excess dust. Visits to the beach, drives through snow when footwear can bring in a lot of slush, etc., are occasions when the use of disposable car mats protects the regular car mats from damage.

Disposable car mats are made in such a manner that they stay securely adhered to the desired surface. This is very important if the car is exposed to spills, etc. These mats act as an excellent form of protection for the car's carpeting during bad weather, oil changes, etc.

Finding High Performance Car Parts

We all know that there are high performance car parts that will improve the performance of your engine such as turbos, superchargers, manifolds, NOS kits etc. The thing a lot of want-to-bee's don't understand however is every part of your car can be upgraded with high performance car parts to improve its performance. You can replace your stock rims and tires, a better exhaust can make a significant difference to your horsepower, new suspension will dramatically improve handling, and you can even fit new or reshaped body panels to improve the aerodynamics of your car and to improve its appearance.

There is a difference between High Performance Car Parts and After Market Parts

Many people think that after market parts and high performance car parts are the same thing, and they are dead wrong! By definition high performance car parts are after market parts; but not all after market parts are created equally - just because something looks right does not mean that it will do what you want it to. If you want your car to run faster, sound better have more grunt etc or even if you want to make improvements or changes to the body work you want to know that the parts you are using are going to last and perform properly in the long run.

If you buy just any after market part you may get the look you are after but not the quality, you won't know if that part is really up to the task. If you purchase high performance car parts you know they have been specifically designed for the task and that they will be able to cope with the demands you will put on them.

The 3m Clear Bra - A Full Review

The 3m clear bra is a fantastic invention for any car-lover who treats his prized possession like a true friend. A man's best friend in this day and age is not always the family dog. Sometimes a car can replace a great pet and nothing hurts more than noticing that first scratch or dent on your favorite automobile. However, traditional protective bras are not the most appealing option for car owners who feverishly want to guard their investments at all costs.

The trouble with the traditional protective covering is simply due to the fact that it literally covers the magnificent machine. No real car lover wants to hide his prized automobile under an ugly rubbery surface. It doesn't make sense to spend a lot of money on the perfect finish only to cover it up with a protective layer. Unfortunately, many car owners had no other choice, either carelessly letting the car suffer with chips and scrapes or grumpily hiding the beautiful finish.

No more such dilemma. A car lover can now choose a 3m clear bra that protects the car by creating a transparent barrier between the car's finish and the natural destructive elements. The 3m clear bra is simply a protective film that is literally painted over the car's exterior. This product is commonly used on trucks, cars and vans of vehicle owners who cringe at the thought of a pebble getting near their priceless object.

Some may wonder if the product really works as well as the traditional protective cover. The 3m clear bra will protect the vehicle from chipping. The material was originally designed by the aviation industry to protect aircraft propellers from chipping. Certainly the material will be equally effective at preventing chipping on vehicles as well.

The 3m clear bra is perfect for protecting headlights as well. The protective layer is commonly applied to the front of the vehicle and on the lenses of the headlights. The winning point of this material is that it is virtually undetectable while working wonders. The original design of the vehicle is not altered in any way. The owner has the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the car is protected while having the luxury of enjoying his vehicle in its original state.

Another concern is the clarity degree of the 3m clear bra. How clear is it, really? The manufacturer of the product boasts that the material is virtually undetectable unless the vehicle is very white in color. The clear coat is slightly visible on a stark white car when very closely examined but it is not detectable from a normal distance. You will see a faint line where the 3m clear bra stops but that is definitely better than an ugly bug shield or paint chips.

New Mazda Cars Launched In The Market

You would have been overwhelmed with the new cars which are available in the market if you have started to take a look at few of them. Other than American cars, you have Africa, Europe, Oceanic, South America and of course Asia that produces some of the most popular cars in the world. These cars include the beloved new Mazda! There are several different kinds of Mazda's available; it is going to be a hard choice to pick the best one for your requirements and lifestyle.

However, there are a couple of new Mazda cars you should be taking a look at if you'd like to purchase a new car or finance/lease one! First are the 2010 Mazda CX-7, 2010 Mazda CX-9, 2010 Mazda MAZDA3, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata and the 2010 Mazda RX-8 which is one of my favorites simply as it is a true sports car through and through! The new Mazda cars actually start at a pretty sweet price - around $15,000 and they go on up in price of course! You can even add on various components and accessories that would also up the price, but when you begin so low, it's nevertheless a really nice deal!

Rather than purchasing your new Mazda online or on a website like Craigslist or some other classified site, it is actually suggested to buy it from a Mazda dealer. When you purchase from a dealer you have many advantages which come along with the new Mazda. First off, when you purchase a Sydney Mazda you could be assured that this car would forever be taken care of as long as it is under warranty. This means that if you ever have any problems you could take it into the Mazda dealer or Mazda service to get it fixed. This is a lot better than taking it to a non-Mazda service center since you would be covered under your warranty.

If you do need to pay anything, it'll be much less expensive than if you have gone to a non Mazda dealer! Also, when you purchase a new car from Sydney Mazda you could really rest assured that it is a NEW Mazda and not a used one. It is never been driven off the lot, besides for a demo drive, and it has never been pre owned unless it's stated as so on the sticker. Finally, when you purchase from a Mazda dealer, you can even get the new Mazda for cheaper than you will get anywhere else. You can get financing choices or leasing alternatives instead of purchasing the car outright.

Bravo to you if you do have $15,000 to put on a car, but many individuals would instead have another monthly option available to them, and that's where the dealer comes into play! You simply would sign up for X amount of years for the car if you are leasing or financing it and pay the car payment once a month. The financing option is usually a better way to go as the price fluctuation ends up charging you less in the end. All the cars mentioned above can be financed at Sydney Mazda! Be sure you ask them about the Mazda service to make sure you are under warranty with the car you get and ask how long the Mazda service lasts for and what it covers!

How to Install a Manual Boost Controller Without Blowing Up Your Engine

Prior to installing any manual boost controller, it is important to have already added a high flowing exhaust and an aftermarket air intake/ air filter. This will ensure the car is able to breath, and will allow the turbo to spool easier.

It is imperative to have installed an aftermarket boost gauge. Most stock boost gauges are not accurate, even at stock boost levels, and lose further accuracy once stock boost is increased. Without an aftermarket boost gauge you risk damage to the engine from overboosting.

How It Works:

The wastegate actuator determines your stock boost levels. The boost controller interrupts the pressure line that runs into the wastegate actuator, allowing you to increase boost over stock levels.

Step 1:

Find your wastegate actuator which is usually attached to the turbo, unless you are using an external wastegate. The wastegate actuator will have a vacuum line port that runs to a boost source. The boost source is usually either the turbo's compressor housing, the intercooler pipes, or the intake manifold. This vacuum line is where the manual boost controller will be installed. If there is a T fitting in the vacuum line between the boost source and the wastegate actuator, it will have a separate vacuum line that runs to the boost control solenoid. If you have the T fitting, remove the line that runs to the solenoid, but leave the solenoid plugged in.

The barb on the boost controller that connects to the wastegate actuator will have a small hole drilled into it. It is important to leave this hole open, and never switch the wastegate barb and the boost barb.

Boost controllers typically come with approximately 3 feet of vacuum line that you can cut into 2 pieces of desired lengths. The first piece will connect from the boost barb on the controller to your boost source. The second piece will connect from the wastegate barb on the controller to the wastegate vacuum port. Tip: if you have difficulty sliding the vacuum lines onto the barbs, use a little bit of oil to lube the barbs. Block off any open boost sources with vacuum caps and use cable ties to secure all vacuum line connections. We recommend using Premium Fuel with all turbo cars, especially once you have increased your stock boost.

Step 2:

Now that the boost controller is installed, it's time to test the car. We recommend leaving the adjustment knob exactly where it was when you received and installed your MBC when you begin testing. Turning the adjustment knob clockwise increases boost, turning the adjustment knob counterclockwise decreases boost. This step is very important to keep an eye on your boost gauge to make sure you do not overboost and cause any damage to your motor.

Drive your car in an isolated area where you will be able to stop and go several times without interfering with traffic. Slowly press the gas and watch your boost gauge climb. If the boost gauge does not hit your target, increase the boost. If the boost begins to exceed your target, decrease the boost. Repeat the steps as necessary. It typically takes between 5 to 10 adjustments to get the boost exactly on your target. We recommend starting by adjusting the boost knob in 1/2 turn increments, and as you get close to your target you may need to make smaller adjustments. Never adjust more than 1/2 a turn at a time.

Each car has a maximum safe boost level, depending on upgrades to the vehicle and the characteristics of the fuel system, specifically how much fuel your pump and injectors can provide. It is important to research and know what the maximum boost level your specific car can safely run.

This guide serves as a basic starting point for manual boost controller installation. If you have an external wastegate or twin turbo vehicle, the installation technique may vary slightly.

Mazda's Miata Starts Off Empire

Car enthusiasts are always on the lookout for an affordable sports car. Over the years, many companies have tried to fill that niche, with varying success. Indeed, it takes a brave and intelligent manufacturer to come up with an attractive, pleasurable and cost-conscious sports vehicle. Luckily, Mazda was able to do just that.

Plans for a unique open two-seater began around 1981. With a team based in both California and Japan, a design focused on a compact, streamlined, easy-to-handle, and overall unassuming sports car began to take shape. Around 1989, to the delight of millions worldwide, the Mazda Miata was born.

The very first Miata was extremely small in size and the complete effect was certainly remarkable. Take the wheelbase, which was just 89.2 inches and stretched to a total of 155.2 inches. The highly engineered steering combined with the smaller disk brakes worked like a charm. The interior amenities were minimal, but sufficient. The idea was to keep the design simple and clean-looking. The very early models did come enhanced with air conditioning and a good sound system. All in all, it was a durable sports car equipped with the necessities.

The car's light weight was a huge advantage when considering the engine options. Just over 2,000 pounds, the Mazda Miata did not need a big engine to produce the speed and excitement of a large sports car. At first, the Miata included a 1.6 liter, 116 horsepower engine and it revved from 0 to 60 mph in less than nine seconds. Obviously, by today's standards this doesn't seem all that incredible, but at the time it was a notable achievement that guaranteed a good time.

Indeed, the popularity of the Mazda Miata extends across the globe. This is evidenced by an increasing number of Mazda Miata clubs in places like Sweden, England, and New Zealand. Come see what all the fuss is about for yourself.

Mazda Speed 6 - The Ultimate in Midsize Sedans Now Has Ultimate Body Parts at Partstrain

The Mazdaspeed 6 offers the optimal balance between performance and sophistication," said Weldon Munsey, vehicle line manager for Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). "The turbocharged engine, with its broad power band, excellent fuel economy and eco-friendly emissions levels, is unmatched in its class, while the sport-minded, luxurious cabin helps deliver a car driver will find hard to exit."

Mazda's own innovative technologies, including the newly developed direct-injection turbocharged 2.3-liter engine with maximum output of an estimated 274 hp and all-new active torque split all-wheel-drive system, make the MazdaSpeed 6 the company's highest performance sedan and push the Mazda brand DNA element of spirited dynamic performance to its ultimate level.

With a 274-horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque, all-wheel drive, the 2005 Mazda Speed 6 has power from the direct-injection turbocharged 2.3-liter engine channeled to an all-new Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive system for traction and handling in all conditions.

Exterior highlights include an aerodynamic front bumper and lower grille section, a five-point upper grille section that also serves as the air intake for the engine's intercooler, the flared side skirts. It also includes the custom 18-inch aluminum wheels fitted with 215/45R18 tires, the aerodynamic rear bumper with built-in diffuser for the integrated exhaust tailpipe and a highly effective yet compact rear lip spoiler.
The interior is spacious with high-quality interior materials for a lush finish, custom six-speed shift knob and semi-bucket sport-type front seats for excellent side support.

It packs a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cyl engine with direct fuel injection and some 274 hp. A 6-speed manual transmission is mandatory. Also standard are a limited-slip differential, up rated suspension, 18-inch wheels, antilock brakes and antiskid/traction control. To match its performance persona, the MazdaSpeed gets its own front and rear fascias, plus special sport bucket seats and metal-look interior trim. Automatic climate control and 200-watt Bose CD stereo are also included in the package.

A new six-speed manual directs the engine's efforts to both axles via standard all-wheel drive with three torque-apportioning strategies: normal, sport, and snow. Standard equipment includes the 270-horse turbo engine, the manual transmission, and Mazda's new Active Torque-Split AWD system, which can send up to 50 percent of the engine's power to the rear wheels.

The 2005 Mazda Speed 6 has direct injection to a turbo application. Injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber increases both fuel mixture loading efficiency and torque. As a result, the turbocharger delivers much of its 15.6 psi of boost from approximately 2500 rpm. The single-scroll turbocharger maintains exhaust temperature, allowing for reduced thermal capacity of the exhaust system, which, in turn, minimizes harmful emissions and allows the MAZDASPEED6 to meet both LEV-II state and Bin 5-A Federal regulations.

Whether you choose the muscular refinement of the MAZDA6 Sports Sedan, the well-executed mix of spaciousness and assertive style of the MAZDA6 5-Door, or the utility and sophistication of the MAZDA6 Sport Wagon, Partstrain gives you the finest Mazda Replacement and Performance Parts unmatched anywhere else.

Simply click on http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/Mazda and choose from its extensive stock of Mazda body parts like fuel tanks, spoiler, radiator, electrical parts, engine parts, hood, hubcaps, condenser, bumper, catalytic converter, exhaust, fender, grille are available to you in great discounts and wholesale deals at Partstrain.

Its customer service staff available offers product excellence and customer satisfaction to enthusiasts around the world 24 hours a day.

Rumored - Saturn Sky Death Imminent

General Motors launched a set of sexy roadsters a few years back under the Saturn and Pontiac banners. The Saturn Sky and Pontiac Solstice along with the Opel GT and Daewoo G2X were developed to bring excitement to each brand, two-seat rear wheel drive sports models with a flair for styling.

Alas, the fortunes of the Saturn Sky and its siblings appears to be coming to a quick end. GM Inside News, an independent voice that analyzes the big automaker, is hinting that the Sky will be no more, exiting the scene in the very near future.

Let's take a look at the reasons why the Sky will likely be no more:

Too Expensive To Build - The Sky's Kappa II platform is too expensive to build. In fact, if reports are correct, the automaker is losing at least $10,000 on each vehicle sold. Never a significant seller, the Sky is an attractive and fun model, but trails the Mazda MX-5 Miata in most rankings.

GM Is Bleeding Cash - General Motors is bleeding through cash this year, at a rate much higher than they thought possible at the beginning of the year. With gas prices topping $4 per gallon, the automaker is scrambling to switch over to a fuel efficient fleet, trimming low performing and expensive inventory in the process.

High Gas Prices Have Changed Everything - In times past when GM could absorb the losses on the Sky, Solstice, GT, and G2X, lower gas prices kept demand for its profitable SUVs and big pickup trucks high. These bigger vehicles are the most profitable for GM and could offset the loss from selling the little roadsters. No more. With sales plummeting, GM has few golden models to rely upon to bolster its line up of loss leading, image roadsters.

Though the Sky isn't a pig on fuel, cash strapped consumers who can still afford a new car are going with much more fuel efficient and practical models. In heady economic times a roadster would sell, but these times are anything but that.

It is unfortunate to hear that the Sky, Solstice, GT, and G2X will be cut, but given the fortunes of General Motors, it seems to be a wise decision from a business point of view.

Checking Your Tires

Regular attention to the tires on your automobile will save you money, improve vehicle handling, and improve safety.

Tires should be rotated every second oil change; that is, tires should be moved to a different position on the car. This will ensure that the tires wear evenly and provide their maximum life.

Inspect the tread on your tires. They should be wearing evenly and not be too worn. If the tread is disappearing, or has worn away entirely, then the tires are unsafe to drive on as they may burst while driving. Visible threads are a sure indication that you need new tires. If the tread is wearing unevenly this may be a sign that your wheels are out of alignment. Other indications are that the car pulls to one side or the other, or simply feels "squirly" on the road.

Keeping your tires properly inflated is essential to extending their longevity and saving you money. Under inflated tires increase road friction and therefore hurt your gas mileage. They also flex more than properly inflated tires and this makes them more likely to fail. Consult your owner's manual for proper tire pressures.

When shopping for new tires, keep in mind that cheap tires will affect your gas mileage and may not be as safe. Also be sure to get tires that are appropriate for your local weather conditions. The tires that originally came on the vehicle may not be the best for your area. Blowouts are dangerous, and looking after your tires will help insure the safety of you and your family.

Some Easy Steps on How to Install Seat Covers in a Car

Installing seat covers in your car is an important thing you need to consider because the covers will protect your car seat in a good way. In this case, you have to know that those covers are really useful in giving the best protection so you can make the seats durable so you can save more. If you would like to install the covers at your car, it is important for you to check this article out that provides better explanation for your needs.

1. The first step you need to consider is to take the headrest off the seat. To take the headrest, you could do this thing with pulling up on the headrest that will stop you at the highest adjustment.

2. The next step you must do is to tilt the seat forward. In this case, it is better if you do not slide the entire seat forward unless it is difficult to reach the back of the seat so you can do the process installing in a good way.

3. Another step you must perform is to put the seat cover over the seat. Also, you must slide it down over the entire seat starting at the top. This process could be a hard thing to do but you can do it in a good way. Also, you will know that this process will make the snug look better. If you are capable in doing this thing very well, you will be sure that there are no wrinkles at your seat cover.

4. Then, you must pull the cover over the seat's base. In this case, you must to stretch so it is able to reach completely over the seat base. Just be sure that you do this process rightly so you can make it functional for your needs.

Car Reliability Ratings 2010 - The 10 Most Reliable Convertibles at 4 Different Age Intervals

Convertibles are fun cars to drive. Many people, teenagers to middle-agers, await the first warm day of spring to take a spin through the country, to downtown, or on an outing. And a chance encounter with friends in the city or suburbs will result in a lively and carefree conversation lasting minutes to hours.

In this article, I list the 10 most reliable of these transports to fun from the fast lanes of modern life. I do this for each of four different age intervals, followed by a list of those most consistently reliable convertibles that appear in each of the preceding four 4-year age intervals.

For the age interval 0-to-4 years, the 10 best convertibles, together with their 2010 Car Reliability GPA for this age range, are:

Toyota Motor Corporation's Lexus SC, with a 2010 GPA of a perfect 4.00,
The V6 Toyota Camry Solara convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 4.00,
The Honda S2000, with a 2010 GPA of 4.00,
The 4-cylinder Toyota Camry Solara convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.67,
Toyota's Lexus IS300, IS350 convertible, with a 2010 GPA of a perfect 3.50,

The V6 Ford Mustang convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00,
The Mazda MX-5 Miata, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00,
The Mitsubishi Eclipse convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00,
The Nissan Z convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00,
The Porsche 911 convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00.

Of these 10 most reliable convertibles, Toyota Motor Corporation accounts for 4 and Honda Motor Company, Ford Motor Company, Mazda Motor Corporation, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Nissan Motor Company, and Porsche AG each account for one.

For the age interval 2-to-6 years, the 10 (13 by tie) best convertibles, together with their 2010 Car Reliability GPA for this age range, are:

Toyota Motor Corporation's Lexus SC, with a 2010 GPA of a perfect 4.00,
The 4-cylinder Toyota Camry Solara convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 4.00,
The V6 Toyota Camry Solara convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 4.00,
The Honda S2000, with a 2010 GPA of 4.00,
Toyota's Lexus IS300, IS350 convertible, with a 2010 GPA of a perfect 3.50,
The Mazda MX-5 Miata, with a 2010 GPA of 3.25,
The V8 Ford Mustang convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00,
The Mitsubishi Eclipse convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00,
The Porsche 911 convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 2.67,
The rear-wheel-drive BMW 325i, 328i convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 2.50,

The BMW Z3, Z4, with a 2010 GPA of 2.50,
The V6 Ford Mustang convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 2.50,
The Volvo C70 convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 2.50.

Of these 13 most reliable convertibles, Toyota accounts for 4, Ford and BMW AG each account for 2, and Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Porsche AG, and Volvo each account for one.

For the age interval 4-to-8 years, the 10 best convertibles, together with their 2010 Car Reliability GPA for this age range, are:

Toyota Motor Corporation's Lexus SC, with a 2010 GPA of a perfect 4.00,
The V6 Toyota Camry Solara convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 4.00,
The Honda S2000, with a 2010 GPA of 4.00,
Toyota's Lexus IS300, IS350 convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.75,
The 4-cylinder Toyota Camry Solara convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.75,

The Mazda MX-5 Miata, with a 2010 GPA of 3.75,
The BMW Z3, Z4, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00,
The V8 Ford Mustang convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00,
The Volvo C70, with a 2010 GPA of 3.00,
General Motors Corporation's Chevrolet Corvette convertible, with a 2010 GPA of 2.75.

It should be noted that General Motors' Chevrolet Corvette has a GPA of only 1.50 for the most recent 4-year age range.

Of these 10 most reliable convertibles, Toyota accounts for 4 and Honda, Mazda, Ford, BMW AG, Volvo, and General Motors Corporation each account for one.

For the age interval 6-to-10 years, the 10 (12 by tie) best convertibles, together with their 2010 Car Reliability GPA for this age range, are:

Toyota Motor Corporation's Lexus SC, with a 2010 GPA of a perfect 4.00,
The Honda S2000, with a 4.00,
The Mazda MX-5 Miata, with a 3.75,
Toyota's Lexus IS300, IS350 convertible, with a 3.67,
The 4-cylinder Toyota Camry Solara convertible, with a 3.25,

The BMW Z3, Z4, with a 3.25,
General Motors Corporation's Chevrolet Corvette convertible, with a 3.00,
The Jaguar XK Series convertible, with a 3.00,
The V8 Ford Mustang convertible, with a 2.75,
The Mercedes-Benz SL, with a 2.50,

The Mercedes-Benz SLK, with a 2.50,
The Porsche 911, with a 2.50.

Of these 12 most reliable convertibles, Toyota accounts for 3, Daimler AG accounts for 2, and Honda, Mazda, BMW AG, General Motors, Ford, Jaguar, and Porsche AG each account for one.

The consistently most reliable convertibles, those that are common to all four of the above age intervals, are:

Toyota Motor Corporation's Lexus SC, with a 2010 GPA of a perfect 4.00 over a 7-year data history,
The Honda S2000, with a 2010 GPA of a perfect 4.00 over a 8-year data history,
The 4-cylinder Toyota Camry Solara convertible,
Toyota's Lexus IS300, IS350 convertible,
The Mazda MX-5 Miata.

In addition, the V6 Toyota Camry Solara convertible has a 2010 GPA of a perfect 4.00 over a 5-year data history.

Apple's Face Time Marks Another Old-News Innovation

When it was first introduced, anyone with a mind to look into the features of the new iPhone 4 were assuredly bombarded by the smarmy gushings of the Apple executives in their 'feature ad' for the new device, the same sort of sales technique they employed with the release of the iPad, as well as the new MacBook Air.

It's pretty hard to sit and listen to almost any pitch job, and for me, to see a product pitched by the guys who are among those who absolutely stand to gain the very most from the success of said product is a few degrees harder to swallow. They all seem to be holding back the urge to gleefully shriek, "CHA-CHING" at the end of each of their overplayed musings about how the new touchscreen interface "just feels right." It's certainly tough to ignore hard-hitting bullet points like that, fellas.

The real thing that irks me about Apple's hold over the American subconscious is that they have this entire image that seems to be predicated upon being at the 'leading edge' of computing. They're 'hip,' and hipness is nearly synonymous with 'new.' Now, far be it for me to criticize the overall quality of their products, but to put their innovations anywhere near the 'bleeding edge' in your mind is to dull the actual bleeding edge to an acuity roughly equivalent to the narrow end of a wedge of cheddar cheese. Their business model simply precludes utilizing the newest stuff, and rather focuses on honing a product, quite finely mind you, around a specific arrangement of just less than current technology, and to cling desperately to that basic setup for as long as is fiscally responsible, or maybe a bit beyond that.

Because we seem to have this hair-brained association of hipness and newness, people can listen to corporate executives gush about how incredible it is to video chat over cell phones, when the very same technology has existed in Europe and Asia for at least a half a decade. That bears repeating: one half of a decade. Five years is at least two eternities in the tech world, and here we are 'oo'-ing and 'ah'-ing over something that your typical Japanese grandmother would hardly even snort at.

Ultimately this points to a pretty clear lesson about the power of marketing. Apple has done nothing if it hasn't marketed a very clear image to the US, and even the rest of the world. It's an image that they will surely ride right into the stratosphere of profitability, but will likely forever sit at the backseat in real computer hardware sales, unless they get to changing how they treat their business model.

High Performing Auto Parts for the World's Best Selling Sports Car - the Mazda Miata 2006

A risky venture in 1989 yet the shrewdest move for Mazda, this little Japanese roadster eventually chalked up 700,000 sales worldwide as it capped the Guinness Book of World Records world's best-selling sports car. Mazda is now looking toward the 1 million mark with the third-generation, 2006 MX-5.

The 2006 Miata will make its debut in Canada this August, It will be called the MX-5 Miata for a year or two, but Canadians and Americans can look for the Miata name to disappear after that, unifying the vehicle as an MX-5 worldwide.

It will be wider and more muscular in appearance with a prominent front and rear fender arches that recall the same style on the flashy RX-8; a more smoothly tapered nose and tail; the inboard placement of the headlights and taillights; and a particularly appealing revised grille.

The body structure is now 47 per cent more rigid, and has a lower center of gravity that should enhance handling. One unusual feature of the '06 Miata is the convertible roof, which, is a manually raised and lowered metal top.

A stiffer unibody structure serves as the chassis foundation, with a double-wishbone suspension in front and multilink system in the rear. Larger front-brake rotors and 25-percent-stiffer calipers help extract optimal stopping distances from the four-wheel single-piston-caliper disc system.

Power is enhanced with its new 2.0-litre engine rated at around 160 hp and balance will be improved by moving the engine 135 mm rearward to create 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution.

A newly developed six-speed manual transmission will be available, along with the standard five-speed manual. An available six-speed automatic transmission can be manually controlled by the shift lever and by steering wheel-mounted paddles.

For all of these technological wonders from Mazda, Partstrain offers the most impressive line up of Mazda Miata Performance and Replacement Parts. Suspension, spoilers, front and rear fenders, tailgate, hoods, hubcaps, electrical parts, engine parts and many others are the best in the industry. These heavy duty and highly reliable parts are available at
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BMW Convertible Models Made In The US

European manufacturers have made convertible car models for many years, even for the american market. One of these is BMW. Have you heard about the Z3 roadster? This was the first mass-market and assembled BMW convertible in the United States. We saw this model on the market in 1996, just after it was featured in the James Bond movie, Golden Eye. The production ended in the year 2002 and before that many variants were introduced. The coupe version was also introduced in 1999 after having been manufactured and assembled in Spartanburg, South Carolina. In the late 2002 the Z4 model - the successor to the Z3 model - was introduced in the Paris Auto Show.

The engineers which developed the Z3 used the E36 of the BMW 3 Series as a platform. The l name of the platform that resulted out of this was referred as the E36/7 model. The rear semi-trailing arm suspension from the E30 model was used rather than the more sophisticated multilink suspension from the E36. At first, just the 1.9 L M44B19 straight-4 engine was offered, though its 138 hp made the vehicle less of a performer than many buyers wanted. Feedback from customers told that the interiors of this model were not good as it was in the other models of this manufacturer. Especially bad looking was the plastic rear window even in comparison to to the glass unit found on the much-cheaper 1999 model Mazda Miata.

In 1997, this little four was complemented by a larger straight-6 engine In the North American market, the 2.8 L M52B28. This engine, taken from the 328i, was especially attractive with its 189 hp. As the four was retired a 3.2 L S52B32 I6 engine was used in the M Roadster that came in the year after. In 1999, the 1.9L 4-cylinder engine was replaced with a 2.5L straight-6, producing as much as 170 hp. Curiously, this BMW model was badged as the '2.3'.

Outside of North America a 2.0L straight-6 was used instead of a 1.9L 4-cylinder. All of the engines were replaced when the car was freshened for a few years later; more precisely in 2001. The range now consisted of the 2.2 L M54B22 (available outside of North America), 2.5 L M52B25, 3.0 L M52B30, and (for the M Roadster) 3.2 L S54B32. All three of these straight-6 engines lasted through the end of the car's run the year after. Except for the plastic window, the whole interiors were refurbished.

Other problems of the Z3 model reported were bad oxygen sensors, the plastic water pump and a rear shock mount that failed. The retro styling though, was more popular and the Z3s have held their value fairly well in the resale market.

M Roadster
From 1998 to 2002, the Motorsports division of BMW produced the well known model M Roadster. This model included suspension upgrades and the engine from the BMW M3. A 3.2L S52 motor was there in the as early as in 1998 as well as 1999, and 2000 M roadster along with a quad exhaust. The models after the millennium change, in other words the 2001 and 2002 models had the S54 motor from the E46 M3 as well as interior upgrades with additional gauges in the center console. A lighted "M" shift knob, various chrome bits throughout the cockpit and sport seats were also part of the standard equipment. There were also many exterior changes, like larger wheels spaced further apart and more aggressive fenders than were installed on the regular Z3. It was also an option to have hardtops.

Adventure in Montana

Montana offers you beautiful vistas, pristine lakes, wild rivers, geological wonders and abundant wild life. If your looking for adventure travel Montana awaits with a new discovery unfolding around every corner. You can start with any scenic highway in Montana and find adventure. If you have never visited the state you will most likely want to start with the Montana Scenic Loop Drive during this 400 mile drive you can take detours stay, play and enjoy a variety of great adventures along the way.

You will travel along the Rocky Mountains the back bone of America. Step back in time with visits to ghost towns. Blackfoot cultural centers along the way will give you insight into their great culture both past and present. You will be able to hike the same trails visited by Lewis and Clark that brought on the expansion of the west. Find wildflower meadows that will please the eye and relax your spirit. Experience the call of wild animals and catch a glimpse of the animals here and there. Take a rafting trip on a wild river that offers an adrenaline rush that surpasses any amusement park ride.

Whitefish is at the beginning of the scenic loop and a side trip here will take to a ski resort during winter. A playground in warmer weather you will find bike trails, white water rafting along the edge of Big Mountain and art from local artist. West Glacier you will find yourself traveling along the edge of Glacier National Park and the Great Bear Wilderness area. Traveling along the Continental Divide you will here and see the wild life that made Montana so famous. You will want to stop from time to time and take little one mile hikes from trail heads into the different areas along the way and see things off the beaten path.

Choteau is where you will find yourself able to take a safari through the Montana wilds, spend a night at a dude ranch, camp on your own and just stay in area that most people just drive by trying to get to the National Parks. Travel on ward to Lincoln and you will find yourself right between Bob Marshall and Scapegoat Wilderness areas. If your like me I can never decide between two beautiful places so I have to see them both. There are dude ranches in the area and horses to rent to cover more ground as quickly as possible.

You will know that you have been to places that most people only dream of. Feel you know what the west used to be and be able to kick back and just enjoy the ride.

Thrilling and Quick Driving - The 2010 Mazda Miata MX-5

A few months ago, a terrific Mazda MX-5 Miata was delivered for our weekly test drive. Maybe I am partial to the Miata sports cars, but I truly enjoy them every time I am able to have a lengthy test drive. Judy is definitely not a sports car aficionada, but accepted the week with a gracious attitude.

By most accounts, the MX-5 Miata is ranked at the top or near the top of every pick of affordable sports cars. Consumer Reports puts it as a "Top Recommendation." Car and Driver rates it among their "10 Best". The key word here is "affordable." If you are a sports car enthusiast on a tight budget, this MX-5 Miata might be your dream car.

Mazda refreshed the Miata for their 2009 model, so the 2010 edition had very little changes. The soft top Miata is available in three trim levels - Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. Our test model was the Grand Touring model. It sported a beautiful Copper Red Mica exterior color, with a Beige interior. The Grand Touring model also has the option of an automatic retractable hardtop. Fortunately, the test model included this feature. It operates so easily and so efficiently. Retractable hardtops are not new, but for a small sports car, they are very convenient, allowing almost instant enjoyment of the open top.

The interior of the Miata is adequate, but nothing exceptional. The cabin is generally considered cramped for taller drivers. It didn't bother me at all. The dashboard sets rather high and the seat does not raise too much, so short drivers might have to stretch some to see out the front. The test model had all the anticipated features plus a few nice extras such as the automatic dimming rear view mirrors. The leather seats were heated, which is always a great feature.

Performance wise, the Miata is always fun to drive and it is almost like being on a skateboard or roller skates. It changes directions almost instantly with a slight touch of the steering wheel. It consistently gives the driver the thrill of holding the road on sharp turns or movements. It can instantly transport your mind onto the curves high above the Mediterranean while you imagine you are competing in the famed Monte Carlo.

The MSRP of our test model was only $28,400. With a few options and premium package added on, the bottom sticker price came to $31,300. EPA ratings for mileage show 21 in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

The Mazda Miata MX-5 is so much fun to drive. It has thrilling handling, it is quick, and it is agile. Long-term value is good also and it is considered to be very reliable. Check out the MX-5 Miata at a Mazda dealership yourself. You might just have as much fun test driving it as I did.

Automotive Lighting Accessory - Mazda HID Kit

Mazda HID Kit also known as xenon Kit is the new sensational kid on the block that has hit the motor vehicle market business. They are not only fantastic but a must have for every vehicle on the road today. These xenon bulbs are not only brighter but whiter as well. Their output color is predetermined by the temperature range of the bulbs. Because of their intense brightness they provide one of the best clarity during night.

This is a collection of 95 Mazda RX7 9003 that was developed to replace the low quality halogen lamps. It's made up of the following gadgets; adhesive tapes, zip ties and, a pair of mounting brackets, a high regular bulb beam, a pair of ballasts with built-in starter and igniter and two Highly Intensive Discharge bulbs that have a low xenon beam. It employs the use of Xenon bulbs which are mostly used for low beam but on the other hand uses the usual common bulbs for high beam though this is not often put to use.

Nevertheless if you desire to use the high beam as many times as possible then you are advised to get the H4 Bi Xenon HID Conversion Kit; this will convert your halogen lamps to xenon with minimal costs. This conversion Kit is made up of a 40 amp relay and a 30 amp switch that has a LED indicator. This converter doesn't have bulb and ballast but has an over 20 years guarantee it also carries with it a complete wiring unit for two bulbs only.

Some vehicles manufactured by the Mazda vehicle company are installed with this converter before they come out of the factory. But this is not available for all the vehicles. Though this kit can easily be installed on your vehicle if you have to purchase it and install it on your vehicle without any complications. The Mazda HID Kit is made up of the following; the wiring system, a pair of Xenon bulbs and a pair of ballasts. The ballasts provide the energy necessary for the conversion Kit to work and regulate the amount of electrical energy used by the bulbs.

In conclusion I would like to recommend you to move as fast as you can and get yourself these gadgets for their demand is soaring day by day. If you make up your mind fill an online application where you would be required to feel a diagnostic form that will assist the staff at Mazda HID Kit to get to the real problem of your vehicle on the website there is a wide range of these products that come in varied colors and sizes please yourself and I can assure you will get a product that has value for your money.

Choosing a Reliable Used Car - Which Models to Watch For

When you are buying a used car, there are a lot of different brands to choose from. Knowing which the best for the long haul are can often make your decision much easier. Some people are well aware of brands that are better than others, but there are some people who simply pick a car that has a cool style or that has a low price, when that isn't what is important at all. Shopping for used cars requires you to look at brands that rank among the best for used sales, of which the Japanese brands seem to hold the lead.

The Honda family of cars has two leaders in the used car rankings: the Accord and the Civic. These two cars are built to last and designed to stand the test of time. If you aren't sure about buying a Honda, do some research and you'll quickly see experiments where people have kept their cars until they reach 500,000 miles, proving that these are great used cars for anyone. One-owner cars are ideal but a Honda could have had 2-3 previous owners and still be a reliable car.

The next most popular used car model is the Toyota Camry. In spite of recent issues with the braking systems on some Camry models, the older Toyota cars make great used vehicles. These cars are built to last and have won reliability tests for many years. This is one of the most popular cars that was ever made, in fact, which translates to the fact that it is a great used car for just about anyone. One non-Japanese model that has made a name for itself is the Hyundai Elantra, which is a Korean car that is known for being built to stand the test of time. Plus, it is smaller and still has power, which is something that everyone loves.

Mazda is another brand that makes great used cars for people. The Miata, specifically, is one of the most popular used cars because it can easily go more than 300,000 miles before developing any major problems. There are tons of great used cars out there, but when you buy these brands you will have the peace of mind of knowing that you are choosing some of the best cars on the market for your used car purchase. Buying used is a great way to save money, and when you choose the right model you can get a great car that can last for many years to come.

Free Car Reports

There are some things in life that are fun, yet stressful at the same time. One of these is purchasing a car. After all, you know this is a major acquisition, and you certainly do not want to mess it up. This means you need to have a set budget when you get started. How much can you actually afford? Well, if you are like most of us, you cannot purchase the car, truck, minivan or SUV outright. You have to make arrangements in order to make payments. Typically most car dealerships will assist you with financing. You can get idea of what the payment will be by taking a glance at the overall price. Typically you can figure on paying $100 a month for each $5,000 the car costs. So if your car costs $50,000, then expect to have a $1,000 a month car payment.

What about free car reports? This is always something to consider when acquiring a new motor vehicle. After all, you must know in detail what you are buy, hence what you are getting yourself into. It makes absolutely no sense to buy a car, pick-up or SUV without getting free car reports first. These typically apply to used vehicles, but you can get plenty of specs on new cars as well. This way you will find out if anything was recalled, or if there have been any specific warnings regarding the vehicle. The more you know, the better and safer it will be.

A few websites that can assist you with free car reports are USAA.com/AutoCircle, kbb.com, and carfax.com. More than likely you have seen Car Fax advertised on television at some point or another. This company advertises all the time nowadays. What these free car reports provide are details about each vehicle individually. This means if you are looking to buy a used Mazda Miata, then you find one at a local dealer for a good rate, you can request a free car report on that specific automobile. It will tell you everything about the car, including whether or not it has been in any accidents or had any recent repairs. These are things you need to know.

In this day and age, it makes no sense to buy a car without getting free car reports beforehand. You could be purchasing a total lemon, and not even know it. This would be horrible. After all, no one wants to spend their hard-earned cash on a vehicle that is damaged or not worth anything. Use the websites provided to check out free car reports at any time. Often dealerships will provide you with these reports if you ask for them outright. You must remember that you are likely going to have a whole new car payment, which can really add up. It would be horrible to purchase a junky vehicle, and still have to make monthly payments on it!

How To Install Car Seat Covers

Seat covers should snug fit the seat with no sagging ends. Though it requires a very few instruction to follow, the process of installation is very important. There are a few important instructions to follow when attempting to install car seat covers, though the installation method will vary depending on the type and style of seat covers you have.

In the case of universal bucket seats, firstly take off headrest and place seat cover over the top of seat and pull it down over the seat. Then place bottom of seat cover nicely over seat bottom. After that, fit base of cover snugly over seat. Later, fasten elastic under seat with supplied "S" hooks. At last, tie the supplied cord in position to ensure that the seat cover is held in correct shape. Check the seat cover is perfectly fitting the seat. After all the processes are over, re-install the headrest.

Installation of custom fit seat covers requires more steps than any other car seat covers. Firstly, remove any guards or shields covering original material that may obstruct seat cover installation. Install bottom of seat cover first. Tie three strings provided to bottom seat cover flap and attach to loops on the flap and fasten them under the seat to springs or to another opposing loop on the seat cover. Next place the seat cover backrest on the seat backrest Tie strings or straps to loops on the seat cover backrest. Then feed the strings or straps between the bottom and backrest of the seat and fasten them to corresponding loops on the top or sides of the seat cover. Make sure that seat covers are fitting correctly. Then, make small holes in the seat cover fabric to accommodate headrests and hardware. After all the processes are over, re-insert headrests and hardware.

Summer Maintenance Inside and Outside

Summer driving with your Mazda car is fun, especially when both the interior and the exterior are looking good. Experience this fun by maintaining both the interior and the exterior.

Inside the vehicle, apply a cream that protects the interior leather and synthetic surfaces. This will keep the dash look like new. This can also reduce or delay the appearance of cracks in the car's interior. It is actually like an anti-aging cream.

The carpets as well as the mats need to be vacuumed regularly. But before doing the vacuum task, be sure that all the dirt that cannot be absorbed by the vacuum are already disposed or stored (depending on how you value them).

The dirt on the Mazda seats is a big NO. Better remove those pieces of fries and chips on the seats because they look disgusting.

To accentuate your interior, you may put some air freshener to sooth refreshing ambience and other accessories for as long as it will not make the interior topsy-turvy. You may opt to change the seat covers. Try new refreshing ones that would fit the hot season. Choose light colors that would not add to the heat of the summer sun.

When the interior is done, proceed to the exterior.

The wiper blades have an extremely important role in your safety. Since they are used for further visibility, replace them immediately when cracked, cut, torn, of if they streak or chatter when wiping.

Tires should wear evenly. Checking the tire treads for significant wears is already a big step in preventing severe tire problems. Worn tires and those with bulges and bald spots should be replaced and tire pressure should be checked regularly.

Always make sure that your spare and tire jack are always secured and in good condition. If the jack is not anymore operable, try oiling its hinges.

Since it is summer, your car also wants to always take a bath. Give it the bath it deservers. Wash it from top to bottom using a product that is specifically manufactured for automobiles and car paints. Never ever use dishwashing soaps because they will remove the car wax. In your car washing, include underbody of your car. Make sure that the salt and the dirt that causes chemical change are removed.

Because you want a good looking car, you would not want mess paint on it, right? The right thing to do is to immediately cover the paint damages if they are just minor. While you do have not yet applied the final touches, have a quick fix with a little clear nail polish on the scratch. Though it is not that good as the final paint, it would be enough to cover those minor paint damages.

Waxing is best during summer. Aside from the fact that it does protect the finish, it also makes subsequent washing easier. But before waxing, make sure to wash your car to ensure that the surface is very clean. This will further assure that the finish will not get scratched.

To help remove different deposits of wax as well as to preserve engine performance and fuel economy, add a fuel system cleaner to your gas tank every after oil change that is every three months or 3,000 miles for most drivers.

The headlights, taillights, reverse lights and signaling lights need to be checked at least once every few months. Ask someone to help you in checking. Let him/her walk around the car and observe while you test the brakes and turn signals.

Check the wheel alignment if the car goes side to side or just to one side while driving at highway speed. Having the appropriate wheel alignment will not only assure good handling, but also, and best of all, safety.

Summer driving with your Mazda car can only be fun when the car is looking good and performing well. And this can only be achieved through proper maintenance of both the interior and the exterior. Along with this, of course, is the maintenance of the engine compartment and all other parts of the car. Happy summer driving!

The Latest Volvo Cars

Volvo continue to be a key player in the United Kingdom motoring trade as they maintain their reputation for rolling out well built and stylish cars. The company pride themselves on their Scandinavian design model which balances niche technology with elegant, but functional, styling.

This balance of style and technology is highlighted in the Cross Country range of cars. Built into the popular XC60 is now only safety but also efficiency as this car can notch up to 725 miles on just one tank of petrol. And, not only does the XC60 boast a beautifully designed interior, but this hatchback allows plenty of space for carriage.

The XC70 is built for hard work and includes functionality such as Hill Descent Control and Instant Traction enabling it to negotiate the roughest of terrains. Such a rugged car deserves and has a muscular exterior but also features elegance in its interior design. Safety in the XC70 is enhanced by auto brakes, protective laminated glass and improved vision.

If it is more space you require then the XC90 is for you with seven seats in its stylish and comfortable interior. And the four wheel drive means that the XC90 can be driven safely in the harshest of conditions while dual screen rear seat entertainment keeps the passengers happy.

The Volvo estate car range is also a by-word for quality. The V50 can comfortably carry five adult passengers and still leave enough room for luggage. Despite its high performance the V50 won't put a dent in your wallet as it it can travel 825 miles on just one tank of petrol. Coupled with a first rate in-car sound system and stylish interior, this car is a pleasure to drive.

The V70 Volvo estate is certainly state of the art. Performance of the V70 is dynamic in both its petrol and diesel models which can travel 890 miles on a full tank. State of the art entertainment is also on offer courtesy of the car's individual rear seat entertainment systems with connectivity for TV and iPod.

Modern and sleek is Volvo's own description of their range of salons. The S40 boasts R-Design tail-gate spoilers, front grille and sports-style seats. It's S80 sister model offers pure luxury sitting on a sports chassis. The S80 offers keyless drive, allowing the car to start just by having the keys in your possession.

Volvo's proud tradition of producing cars of quality and elegance is continued in its latest coupe range. Fuel efficiency is paramount in all Volvo cars and the C30 can go up to 857 miles without having to fill the fuel tank up.

The C70 is a marvel of engineering, being a convertible and hardtop all in one. The C70 has a remarkable retractable hardtop that opens and closes in just 30 seconds. On the safety front the C70 alerts the driver when it is being overtaken when moving between lanes, can stabilise itself and even take incoming mobile calls.

5 Essential Tips on Buying Used Cars

Never rush into a decision when buying a second hand car. Make sure that you get only the quality you deserve at a value you can afford. Here are some good rules to follow when buying a second hand vehicle:

1. Decide on a budget. Browse through different selling sites and get a rough idea on how much a second hand car of a certain brand would cost. This way, you'll know if you have to increase or decrease the amount you're willing to spend.

2. Check the service record and car's paperwork carefully. Be wary of transacting with fraudulent used car dealers and buying a stolen vehicle. Before you spend time in checking the parts and mechanics make sure that you check all the paperwork first. If possible, get the invoice of the car from the original owner. Check that all the documents including registration, certifications, and other documentations tally with the car.

3. Thoroughly inspect the car in good daylight. Look for scratches, signs of repair and damage. Make sure all electric accessories such as windows, locks, seats, alarm, work. Examine the chassis, battery, air filter, and gaps between body panels. Headlights and indicators should be working excellently.

4. Test drive the car for at least one kilometer. Get a feel if the car is for you. Drive at different speeds and don't forget to check the reverse gear.

5. Take it to a mechanic for a full professional mechanical check. It may be costly and will take time but at least you can be sure that the used car is worth your money.

Again, check the vehicle thoroughly before making the purchase. Negotiate, if possible, with the price. Buying a used car need not to be a stressful experience. If you will only consider the options wisely and do your homework, then a second hand car can still be a good investment.

Warning All Drivers - Pedals Get Stuck Under All Weather Car Mats

Even the most conscientious drivers could find that they are in danger as a result of something that should be protecting their car. All weather car mats are great for keeping dirt off of the carpets and they should still be used, a simple measure can ensure that you remain safe while your carpets remain clean.

Floor mats are a great addition to any car. A one off payment for some good quality tailored car mats will extend the lifetime of your carpets, which cannot be easily replaced. As the weather deteriorates you may think it is a good idea to invest in some all weather tailored mats, and you would be right. It is unavoidable that mud and rain will get into your vehicle; any preventative methods such as changing your shoes before you get in the car are fussy and impractical.

But there have been several cases where pedals have become stuck underneath rubber, all weather car mats. Toyota infamously had to recall their vehicles for their pedals becoming trapped under mats. More recently, Ford recalled some of their 2010 model after receiving similar complaints.

After tests, Ford discovered that it was not a result of faulty design. The cars which had reported sticky pedals had in fact simply been trapped underneath all weather floor mats which were stacked on top of their tailored carpet mats. The advice is that if you intend to use rubber car mats you must first remove the carpet mats, as stacking them can obstruct the pedals. This advice is relevant to any make and model of vehicle.

Pedal entrapment may also occur if the mats are not correctly fitted. Universal mats are prone to slipping and sliding and gathering which is a serious hazard. It is always advisable to buy tailored car mats from a reputable manufacturer who can precisely cut the mats into the right shape for the model of your car.

It is still advisable to buy car mats, but just ensure that they are correctly and safely fitted.

Happy driving.

The Birth and Stages of Automobile Industry

The automobile industry came into existence in early 1769, with Nicolas J. Cugnot who was a French engineer and inventor of the first medium of transport that runs on roads. This automobile was a steam powered, three wheeled military tractor. This vehicle had a small range of distance covering capacity, which could run only for a maximum of fifteen minutes. They also required a sufficient starting time. However they were not fit to run on roads due to the bulk load of the steam engines. The steam engine driven automobile was first designed by Oliver Evans in the US.

Internal combustion engine based car powered by fuel gas came into existence in the year 1806. In 1838, Scotsman Robert Davidson invented the first electric locomotive that run on an average speed of 4 miles per hour.

Lack of fuels discouraged the manufacture of combustion engine based automobiles. Then the internal combustion engine automobile which used oxygen and hydrogen mixture came into existence with the Swiss engineer Francois Isaac de Rivaz. Later, automobiles which ran on hydrogen came into existence in 1826.

The first man to produce automobiles was Karl Benz in Germany in the year 1888 under license from Benz. How ever the Duryea motor wagon company was invented by brothers Charles and Frank Duryea.

By 1990 various national automobile industries emerged in countries like Belgium, Germain and Nagant. With that the export industries started their work in Paris, cars and trucks were exported to other countries like Tunisia, Egypt and Iran. Though, there were breakdowns, fuel was not sufficient. Proper roads to run cars were very less. Later after 1960, the automobile industry seemed more integrated with high technologies, where Japan was a serious car producing country.

The major change after that was the design of automobiles with safety means. More safety and security features came into existence after 1960. By 1964, the most famous Pony car was manufactured, which is known as the Ford Mustang of the present era. More other cars were manufactured after that.

The only country to dominate the automobile industry in the history was the US, with no recognized competitors.

However, other automobile industries from countries like Japan and other European nations which are known as technologically advanced countries started with their momentum slowly and increased their automobile industry productions after the Second World War in 1945. Within short time, the US automobile industry was piled up with the foreign automobiles of Japan and Germany.

The automobile trends reveal one thing clearly that, in the developed countries like US, the production of automobiles is stagnating due to global depression and fall of car markets. The global economic crises on the other hand, led to the complete halt to the production of cars with the reducing car buying demands. Many countries switched to more economical fuel saving cars in this period. Whereas, in developing countries like India and Brazil, the increase as well as the demand in the automobile production owing to the domestic needs is gaining popularity which is the key factor for its growth.

Devices That Improve Fuel Economy - Are They a Scam?

There are many businesses who claim they can improve fuel economy by using their devices. Two popular devices include the Fuel Genie and the Platinum Gas Saver. The Fuel Genie can be purchased for just under $100. The promise from this device is to give you more power and improve your gas mileage. This device has curved blades and it is installed inside of the air-intake hose. According to Consumer reports the Fuel Genie is not one of the devices that improve fuel economy.

The Platinum Gas Saver has a name which looks attractive to anyone looking for fuel efficiency. Does this device really work? This device is over $100 to purchase and it consists of a vacuum line that you will attach to the intake manifold. According to consumer reports there were no changes of fuel economy or performance when tested on two different types of vehicles.

The fact is, to improve fuel economy for your car, devices are not the way to go and usually a waste of money. It never really is recommended by the manufacturer to install a device to your air-intake or to your exhaust manifold. Unless the manufacturer of your vehicle specifically has designed a part or certified a part to be installed on your vehicle for fuel efficiency, don't put it on your car. In order to get the most miles per tank the best thing you can do for your vehicle is take proper care of it by having it serviced regularly as the manufacturer requires.

Getting the Price You Want From Sale of Cars

Getting your car prepared for a sale is required if you're going to get the best price for it. First clean the car inside and out and make sure it's tidy. Consider receiving a new MOT as this tells a lot more about the car's basic condition. Have a complete, professional valet service. It really makes a difference to the price and how easily you could sell the car. Now you're ready to market your car and here are few tips for a stress-free sale.

1. Price your car realistically as it is vital if you need a quick sale. Check the prices of similar cars in popular ad magazines or online.
2. You cannot sell a car with outstanding finance.

This will include outstanding hire-purchase or conditional sale agreements.

If you are selling, get the finance company's consent or settle the finance first.
3. Don't make false or reckless claims always take care how you word your advert.
4. In advertising, stick to the facts that would interest potential buyers.

Describe the car as correctly as possible.

Quote the year, how many months are left back on the MOT and also where you are based.
5. State the present condition of the car in adverts and on the receipt.

If it's sold for spares only, or it requires any substantial repairs.

Also include this information on the receipt once agreed to sell.
6. Have all the documents and history handy.

Keep receipts for work that carried out.

A fully-stamped dealer service record adds value if have got one.

Don't forget to hand over all related documents when you sell.
7. Check whether the buyer is insured to test drives the car.

Always go away with them.

Avoid becoming a prey of car theft - if you change your seats part way through, always take the keys with you and hand them over when you get back in the car.
8. Build in a margin for haggle.

This way the buyer is happy and you will still find close to the amount you want.
9. Provide a 'Sold as seen, try and approve without guarantee' receipt also.

Keep in mind that no wording on the receipt is foolproof.
10. Get paid.

Don't allow anyone to drive your car until you're satisfied that you've been paid in full.

Cash is the best way to be paid.

If you are given a personal cheque, wait for it to clear in your bank prior to you hand the car over.

Fruitfully sold your car

So now you've settled to sell your car. What must you do before the buyer drives off into the sunset? To defend yourself, draw up a seller's contract.

1. Take two copies of the contract, one for you and one for your buyer.

2. Complete the contract with your buyer.

3. Both you and your buyer must sign and date the contracts.

4. Make sure you both keep a signed copy as proof of the purchase.
It's also important to inform the DVLA that your car has changed hands.

Make Bank at Repo Trailer Auctions

The first step is to actually find the repo trailers, which you can do by getting in touch with a bank or similar lending institution.  It's not always easy getting through to the correct person's desk, but your persistence will pay off.  Someone will be able to tell you what they have available and whether anyone form the general public is allowed to bid at the auction.  Hopefully, more than one lender will be able to help you find available bank repo trailers.  On the West Coast, American General Finance is bigger than any other sub-prime lender.  We always sent them our buyers who couldn't find another source of financing.  That, quite frankly, is one of the reasons sub-prime lenders are such a great source of bank repo trailers.

Both silent and vocal auctions are common for selling repo trailers.  Generally you'll be permitted to inspect the trailer prior to the auction-at the very least you can do a walk through.  Once you purchase the repo trailer, though, the sale is considered final.  You purchase the Trailer as-is.

A bank repo trailer is not like a bank repo home.  It's generally in great condition.  Try to get the most for every dollar.  Bank auctions are terrific for finding trailers with upgrades.  Things like multiple slide outs, internet access, satellites and generators will come a lot cheaper.  Get the most trailer you  can for the price.

Have a focus before you go to make your bank repo trailer purchase.  That's key.  If you know exactly what the maximum is that you're willing to spend before the auction begins, then you'll avoid bidding wars and over paying.  Don't go back once you've decided.  Stay committed to you maximum bid.  There are other repo trailers out there-people who get emotional at auction and start overbidding are the ones who lose.

Be sure, if you're allowed, to make a full inspection of your bank repo trailer.  Compute the costs of any repairs and deduct that total from your already decided maximum bid.  But even if you are not allowed to inspect the trailer, you still ought to have a contingency figured into the equation.  A good figure is between five and fifteen percent above the cost of small repairs.  If you're in a state with a lemon law, you'll still be able to take the bank repo trailer back as much as three days after the purchase if you come upon a big problem.

Be sure you're aware of the repo trailer's value.  That's fundamental, and it's where you start when trying to find a good deal on a bank repo trailer at auction.  Know in advance the precise value of your target trailer.  Use NADA, or use the Kelley Blue Book.  Remember, if you're using NADA, that your price is the private party price.  You're generally aiming to get the repo trailer at or under trade-in value.  This price is actually something of a guarded secret, but you can get a good general idea by calling dealerships and letting them think they might be getting a trade in.  After talking to two or three, you'll have a solid idea of what's a good, low price that you can begin to work with.

That's all.  Good luck finding a great bargain on your next bank repo trailer!

Hybrids And Werewolves Share A Common Trait: Efficiency

What is a Werewolf but a part wolf, and a part human? Werewolves had the guile of a man and the bite of a wolf. Likewise, Frankenstein's monster was a hotchpotch of old body parts put together with some electricity. Even the Greeks had their idea of a hybrid; it was Chimaera, had a head of a lion, the body of a goat and the tail of a serpent. The modern equivalent of these flights of fancy is the modern gas-electric automobile called the Hybrid. Today such vehicles exist from manufacturers as diverse as Ford, Honda, and Toyota. Even BMW and Daimler-Benz are busy jointly developing Hybrids that'll be ready for the market by 2009. And Porsche, the hallmark of racing success, is hurrying the development of a Hybrid engine for the upcoming 2007 Porsche Cayenne. With the continuous rise in gas prices, Hybrid vehicles offer the newest of the fuel-efficient technology. Soon every car maker from Mazda to Maserati will be jumping on this particular gravy train, and for good reason.

Purchasing a Hybrid today is the modern day equivalent of taking control of higher gas prices while living the Jetsons' lifestyle. There are nine Hybrids on the market today. Toyota leads the way with the second generation Prius posting the highest fuel efficiency at the lowest cost. For MSRP of $21,725 you get efficacy of 60 mpg city/51mpg hwy. This practical, yet sophisticatedly designed four-door, five-passenger automobile makes a statement. It says "green-mobile" anywhere you go. The endless surge of energy provided by its notably silent, but frugal engine will make you feel elated as you drive mile-after-mile with the fuel gauge stuck on full, seemingly its permanent position. Additionally, its spaciously interior, exceptionally comfortable seats, outstanding build quality, and original styling makes the Toyota Prius an excellent buy in any category. The 2006 Prius is the complete Jetsons' vehicle available today. Rejoice, as the sci-fi future we once yearned for is finally here.

Depending on your personality, you now have the choice between a Hybrid that looks like a traditional car or not. Unlike the distinctive Toyota Prius, the Honda Accord Hybrid and the Toyota Camry Hybrid do not shout "environmentalist" by design; rather they both blends in with the environment. If you prefer the stealth mode of a wolf in sheep's clothing, consider either the Honda Accord Hybrid, or the Toyota Camry Hybrid as your next automobile. The Accord's luxuriously appointed cabin, with its host of luxury amenities such as retractable sunroof, navigation system and LED lights makes this Hybrid the perfect choice for those seeking a refined but economical sedan. Fuel efficiency of 29 mpg city/37 hwy and a MSRP of $30,500 make the Honda Accord Hybrid affordable as well. Similarly, the 2007 Camry Hybrid is fully equipped with all the bells and whistles, and has a brazen exterior styling. With a MSRP of $30,900 and fuel efficiency of 30 mpg city/40 hwy - the 2007 Camry Hybrid is well positioned to be Accord's Hybrid counterpart.

If you are looking for a compact Hybrid that conserves space as well as fuel, consider Honda's Insight or the Civic Hybrid. Both cars have cult-like followings among compact car drivers who love the lure of hybrid technology. The Insight, with a MSRP of $21,530 attains 57 mpg city/56 mpg hwy, and features a two-door/two-passenger cabin. Its sleek exterior design and the assortment of exterior colors enhance its desirability as a niche vehicle. The compact design, however, means limited storage capacity. Alternatively, the Honda Civic Hybrid at a MSRP of $21,850 is within the same price range as the Insight, and with its contemporary good looks attains a respectful 49 mpg city/51 mpg hwy. The Civic Hybrid is unique because it looks and drives like a sports car while posting outstanding fuel efficiency numbers.

For motoring enthusiasts who prefer greater towing capacity in your vehicles, there are four SUV Hybrids available in 2006. The Ford Escape Hybrid, for example, leads the way with an unprecedented 36 mpg city/31 mpg hwy at a MSRP of $26,900. The Escape Hybrid features a 155 horsepower engine and a luxuriously updated interior making this vehicle a good buy in this hotly sought after segment. The Lexus RX 400h pushes the envelope of luxury with an even more spacious interior and a powerful 3.3 Liter V6 268 horsepower engine. The four-door, five-passenger, Lexus RX 400h gets 33 mpg city/28mpg hwy, but costs considerably more than the Ford Escape with a MSRP of $44,660. The sumptuous sport utility segment is further enhanced with the presence of Mercury Mariner Hybrid with its 2.3 Liter engine that churns out 133 horsepower with a fuel efficiency of 33 mpg city/29 mpg hwy. With a MSRP of $29,225, the Mercury Mariner is competitively priced. Topping off the list is the Toyota Highlander Hybrid that features a 3.3 liter V6, 268 horsepower engine with the highest towing capacity of all hybrid SUVs. The Highlander's attributes include a well-appointed cabin, bold exterior design, and fuel efficiency of 33 mpg city/28 mpg hwy. With a MSRP of $33,030 the Highlander is the right choice for travelers who value torque, towing capacity, and gas efficacy in their SUV Hybrid.

Hybrids no longer exist in the realm of myths or in fairy tales, but have become an integral part of our contemporary folklore. Hybrid cars and SUV's let you explore the wide open roads of our beautiful country, the cul-de-sacs of our suburbs, and the busy streets and alleys of our towns and cities. Unlike regular engines, Hybrids offer an incredible way to save on fuel without compromising your need for living. Go ahead howl like the wolf.

Run Your Car on Water - Is it a Scam?

I think you have already heard about the technology called run your car on water, which allows you to increase your gas mileage. But is water4gas a scam or real thing? In this article I will try to answer all your questions and tell more about this technology.

If somebody tells you that you can easily run your car on water you should know that it's not possible. Never add water to gas tank. It can cause serious damages to your car. However you can run your car WITH water - there is a difference. It isn't a scam. It is installed into your car and produces hydrogen from water. Hydrogen is used with your gas to increase mileage, reduce engine temperature and, what is very important, stop air pollution.

If you thinks that it is not easy to install the technology you are wrong. The technology is very simple. You can buy all required materials in a local shop. They all are very cheap. Then you should follow step by step instructions, blueprints and video lessons. That's it. It will only take you 2 hours. Even my grandmother would be able to do it. So, I can tell with full confidence that water4gas isn't a scam.

There are many car conversion systems on the internet. Some of them work, however most of them is a piece of crap. If you want to find out which system is the best, watch videos about the system and learn more about it, visit the link below. I hope you found this information useful. Good luck.

Convertible Miata - An Affordable Alternative

Whether you're shopping for your very first convertible or you're a long-time fan of driving with the top down, you could probably use a price break in these tough economic times. Even if you're doing well financially, you may wonder whether the exorbitant price tags on some of these roadsters are truly worth it, or whether you could find a better deal on a more affordable alternative. The answer to that question lies in examining what you value in a convertible - and what kinds of features and amenities you're willing to pay extra for.

One of the gold standards when it comes to high performance convertible roadsters is the BMW Z3. BMWs are in a class by themselves - or so goes the conventional wisdom. In reality, you don't have to drop upwards of $30K for an enjoyable convertible experience; instead, you could invest in the Mazda Miata SE and save yourself anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 upfront! Of course, you'll be sacrificing the cache of the BMW brand name, but when it comes to comparing the two cars in terms of looks and handling, you may be surprised by how they stack up.

Both cars are small two-seaters with classic convertible shapes and no added bulk to disturb their sleek lines. The Miata, however, comes equipped with features like leather seats, a wood console and a CD player - all add-ons that will drive up the price of the BMW Z3 by at least $2,000. The Miata's sound system actually far outpaces the Z3, giving you more bang for your buck if you like to listen to music in your convertible. Car enthusiasts have reported that the Miata's air conditioning system is also much more efficient than that offered by the Z3.

However, there is one area in which the Miata can't compete: The engine. The BMW boasts a 6-cylinder engine with 193 horse power, while the Miata offers a 4-cylinder engine with 140 horse power. This is where you truly have to evaluate what, exactly, you want from a convertible. If you have a "need for speed," then perhaps spending the extra cash on a BMW will be worthwhile - but if you simply want to tool around town and enjoy the wind in your hair, the Miata will more than suffice. Both are fun to drive and offer the luxury of a convertible experience; the question is, are you looking for unbridled speed or astounding value? If the answer is the latter, then the Miata is the car for you.

Reference of Auto Transport Terminology

In general the glossary of auto transport term is a partial list of terms used in auto transportation and with the help of this glossary you will be able to know more information about shipment. This glossary will also help you to make correct decision in terms of transporting your vehicle to its destination. So, let us find out some glossaries used by auto transporters.
Auto rack: Auto rack is special kind of multi level rail car that is used for the purpose of transporting vehicles. Generally auto rack possesses 2 to 3 decks and they can carry about 20 cars at a time. This specially designed car possesses end doors and metal side panels in order to safeguard the vehicles while transporting. To transport SUVs and trucks dual deck or bi-level auto rack is used, on the other hand to transit small cars triple deck or tri-level auto rack is used. It is estimated that train with seventy auto racks can transit about thousands of vehicles at a time.
Auto Transport: To move or ship your vehicles as fright. Auto transporters are encouraged to seek out financially strong, fully insured, and reputable car hauler. The upcoming smart and customer focused vehicle transport companies are making the nationwide auto transport more affordable and convenient.
Car Hauler/Carrier: Car hauler or a car carrier is a company that offers vehicle transport facility which on the other hand also known as physical transport of a car.
Vehicle transport equipment/ car carrier: It is a special kind of semi-trailer that is generally used to transit nine vehicles at one go. Some of this trailer is operated by hydraulically ramps. In this trailer every vehicle is tied and blocked properly so that it can be transit safely without getting any damages and dents. Usually the huge vehicles are transit on the upper deck of the trailer and cars which are not too heavy are transit in the lower deck of the trailer.
Enclosed auto transport: This is type of transporting car where your car is totally secured from wind, rain, storm etc. If you have expensive car then it is recommended that you should prefer to use this option to transit your car because it protect your can from hazards, road debris, and weather.
Local Move: It is a term used by the auto transporter when the pickup and delivery of you car is done by the same carrier and when the distance of your destination is within 200 miles then it is known as local move.
Delivery Network: It is type of network in which ships, railroads, trucks utilized to transit your cars is connected. The car shippers who transport your car to your new destination possess a powerful delivery network that offers efficient car shipment to meet the requirements of the customers in terms of cost and time.

Save Money With a DIY Hydrogen Generator Kit

All of us are concerned with the high price of fuel today. In addition, the fuel emissions and carbon footprint of a vehicle is enormous. What if you could get your fuel from a common source and possibly double your gas mileage. For less than it costs to fill your SUV, you can build a DIY hydrogen generator.

Just as the more expensive hybrid technology stores the excess energy available when a vehicle is coasting to a stop, the hydrogen generator also stores that excess energy. Most of today hybrid vehicles use batteries to store the excess energy that is just wasted by conventional automobiles. The hydrogen generator stores the excess energy by converting water into hydrogen and hydrogen oxide.

Hydrogen and hydrogen oxide are both very reactive gasses. They would prefer to burn and be transformed back into water. Therefore, when these gases are mixed with gasoline, they increase the power rating of the fuel. They give your car more power and noxious emissions. As a matter of fact, the only emissions from burning hydrogen or hydrogen oxide is water.

Since there is no carbon in these two fuels, there is no carbon monoxide produced by them. Since your vehicle cannot be powered on these two fuels alone, but must still rely on gasoline, there will be some carbon monoxide produced, but less than if the car was running on gasoline alone.

There are many DIY hydrogen generator kits available on the internet. You can also find and print out your own instructions to build one. Most parts are available at your local hardware store and include such items as wide mouth canning jars, plastic jar lid (read mayonnaise lid), vacuum tubing and other simple parts. All told, you will spend less than sixty-five dollars to build the DIY hydrogen generator.

There are many reasons to build a DIY hydrogen generator for your vehicle. The first is to save money. Fuel prices continue to grow, but imagine cutting those costs in half. Even if gasoline climbs back to the 4 dollar price tag, by using only half the amount in your current vehicle, it would be like paying two dollars per gallon.

In addition a DIY hydrogen generator is good for our environment. Your vehicle will suddenly become more efficient in burning the gasoline it uses with fewer emissions. Think of the clean air we could leave for our grandchildren with this technology.

A third reason to build a DIY hydrogen generator is that engines that burn hydrogen last longer. This means a longer time between replacing vehicles.

A Look at the Mazda Pickup

The pickup truck, or more commonly known as the pickup, is a light truck. At its rear, one will find an open top. This gives pickups the capacity to transport more cargo.

There are various types of pickups in the automobile world. These are the compact pickup, the North American full size pickups, the midsize pickups, and the coupe utility. The compact pickup is the most popular type of pickup. Samples of this type are the Ford Ranger and the Nissan Frontier. The North American full size pickups is a large truck that has been essentially made to be functional for hauling loads of cargo. Samples of this are the Chevrolet Silverado, the GMC Sierra, the Dodge Ram, the Ford F-Series, the Nissan Titan, and the Toyota Tundra.

Mazda has not only been crafting and manufacturing wonderful vehicles like the 3, the 323, the 5, the 6, the 626, the 929, the GLC, the Miata, the Millenia, the MPV, the MX 3, the MX 6, the Navajo, the Protégé, the Protégé 5, the RX 7, the RX 8, and the Tribute. In fact, Mazda has also been manufacturing other types of vehicles. One of these is the Mazda Pickup.

The Mazda Pickup parts are not just any other ordinary pickup that one would see rolling down the streets. This vehicle combines style, sophistication, agility and strength. And all these are found in the Mazda Pickup. It is muscular and rugged and holds a sporty look that is very much appealing to the male part of the population. The wheels of the Mazda Pickup are stylish enough to bring a new kind of look to this pickup truck. It models sleek lines, rounded corners, as well as sculpted contours. The interior of this vehicle provides safety, comfort and enjoyment for its passengers. Everything has been specially designed and crafted so as to provide an impressive ride for all. Since the Mazda Pickup is a light truck, space has also been given generously. For passengers, the interior could accommodate comfortably adults in both front and passenger seats. The open rear part is even much more capable of providing greater space for hauling and transporting cargo.

http://www.mzpart.com/ provides Mazda owners and aficionados a complete line of the highest quality Mazda car parts, performance parts, custom auto parts, and accessories. Highly dependable and proven Mazda interior and exterior parts are also in stock. The list includes a/c condensers, brakes, bumpers for the front and rear, carpets, catalytic converters, starters, tailgates, steering, and window regulators among many others. All these have gone through rigid tests so as to fit factory and manufacturer's standards. It has a comprehensive and user friendly parts catalog that guarantees each visitor a convenient shopping experience online. Therefore, if you are in need of excellent quality Mazda parts, Mazda Parts and Mazda Auto Parts would do just the trick.

The Driver's Simple Guide To Tire Rotation

As you know, the treads on your tires wear down with time. Most people are aware it happens, but wait too long before having their tires replaced; the treads eventually wear down to the point they become a safety risk. There's a simple method for prolonging their useful life, and postponing buying a new set: rotate them on a regular basis.

Most automakers recommend rotating the entire set every 10,000 miles. With some makes and models, they'll suggest doing so every 5,000 miles. You'll find the recommended service interval listed in your owner's manual.

A lot of people take their vehicles to their mechanics in order to have the rotation done for them. However, you can easily do the job yourself without spending much time. The key is knowing how to rotate your tires (simply crisscrossing them is not enough) to maximize their life. You'll learn how to do so below.

How To Rotate Your Tires: Step By Step

First, if your wheels have hubcaps or rims, remove them before starting the rotation. Otherwise, they'll get in the way.

Second, prior to raising your vehicle, loosen the lug nuts on each wheel. Don't take them off completely; simply loosen them.

Third, lift your vehicle on sturdy jacks. The jack located in the trunk of your car can be used, but is unsafe. If possible, use a hydraulic model. The best way to position the jacks is to place one at each corner of your vehicle (four in total). If you only have two available, place them on the front and rear axles.

Fourth, with your car raised, remove the lug nuts. Place them in a small container to avoid losing them.

When you rotate your tires, you'll put the front ones in the rear, and the rear ones in the front. However, there is a particular way to rotate them based on your car's drivetrain. For a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the left-rear tire should be placed on the left-front position. The right-rear goes in the right-front. The left-front tire goes in the right-rear position while the right-front goes in the left-rear.

On a front-wheel drive car, the opposite should be done. The left-rear goes on the right-front, and the right-rear goes in the left-front. The two front tires should be placed on their respective sides on their rear positions. The left-front goes on the left-rear, and right-front on the right-rear.

Once the set has been properly mounted, replace the lug nuts on each wheel, and tighten them by hand (don't tighten them completely). Then, lower your vehicle.

With your car planted firmly on the ground, use your wrench to tighten the lug nuts on each wheel. Use a star pattern to ensure the tires are firmly tightened. Lastly, replace the hubs or rims.

Reasons Behind The Rotation

Your treads can wear down for many reasons. Besides the wear that normally occurs over thousands of miles, the alignment of your front wheels (on a front-wheel drive vehicle) can cause those in front to wear prematurely. For example, if you notice a feathered pattern, it often means toe is misaligned. If you notice wear on only one side of a particular tire, the problem may be a camber misalignment.

Other factors that can contribute to premature wear include loose or damaged ball joints in your suspension, loose tie rod ends, or a problem with the steering column. It may also be caused by a bent axle from a past accident.

Because wear occurs for different reasons, your treads will seldom wear down evenly. This is why their rotation should follow the patterns described earlier. If the left-front tire becomes worn on its outside edge (on a front-wheel drive car), placing it in the right-rear position reduces pressure on that edge.

You should be examining your tires for premature wear every few weeks. Take note of the wear patterns you observe, and have the underlying problems (i.e. misalignment, suspension issues, etc.) resolved.

Top Tips For Getting Ready For a Road Trip

I love a good road trip. Whether it's with my girlfriends or my family, just thinking about it stirs a sense of adventure. There's generally a bit to get organised before you head off. Unfortunately the cars readiness is often overlooked and can turn a break into heartbreak.

By not checking on your car's ability to perform, you can compromise safety, increase fuel consumption and run the risk of doing some expensive damage to your car. That's why we've put together the ultimate checklist for fun on the run.

The Car

First and foremost get your car into tip top travelling condition by doing some self maintenance.

Tyres & Wheels

Your tyres are one of the most important safety features of your car. Bald and unevenly worn tyres can get you sliding out of control pretty quickly and reduce your braking ability. There are 3 main areas to check.

1. Tyre Wear. Take a good look at each tyre. You will notice that there are ridges. When the tyres are worn the ridges become smooth. To check how much the rubber has worn, place a match stick in between the ridges. If the head of the match stick is taller than the rubber then your tyres are worn and you may need new ones. Check all 4 tyres as well as the spare. And if you don't have a spare tyre in the boot, get one as soon as you can.

2. Tyre Pressure. Check you pressure at your local petrol station. The correct tyre pressure for your car is printed on a placard often found on the driver's door sill. It will also be in your car's handbook. Remove the caps and add air to the correct pressure. You will need to do this for all 4 tyres as well as the spare. If you do not have any caps over the valve, you can buy some from your local auto shop. The caps help the air stay in your tyres.

3. Wheel Alignment. Hitting the kerb as well as general driving car lead to your wheels getting out of alignment. To check, drive the car slowly in a straight line down a quite flat street. Loosely hold the steering wheel. If the car tends to steer to the right or the left then your wheels may be out of alignment. Take it to your local service centre where they will adjust it for you.

Under The Bonnet

There are a couple of things you can check yourself before you head off.

1. Oil. Park your car on a flat surface. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it with paper towel. Put it back in the hole fully and pull it out again to see the oil level. If it's reading low, top up your oil using the correct grade as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Check your oil when your car is slightly warmed up.

2. Windscreen washer water and fluid - You'll find a clear plastic bottle with a windscreen symbol on it. Simply pull off the cap and fill with clean water. You can also add a windscreen washer fluid which gives it an even better clean.

The People

So your car is now ready to hit the grey freeway of adventure, but what about you and your passengers?

1. The Driver.

Before you set off agree on who will be driving the car and make sure they are covered under the car owner's insurance policy. Plan you stops and your driver changes. It is recommend that you stop every 2 hours to have a rest. Each time a new driver gets in, get them to take a couple of minutes to adjust the seat, rear view mirror and side mirror. It sounds obvious but may women will change the seat, but not the side mirrors.

2. Entertainment, Snacks, Games.

Pack your favourite CD, DVDs and games. Pack some road snacks including fruit, lollies, mints and sandwiches. Pack plenty of water and insist on the driver drinking it. The more they drink the more you will stop for a "nature call", which gives everyone a break. Remember the driver is the key to getting you to your destination safely so be prepared to let them have a greater say in the music and provide them with drinks/snacks when they require it.