WHAT AIR CAN DO FOR YOUR CAR

Car racing has been one of the favorite pastimes of every car enthusiast. Its like every period, a new breed of racing car is produced which amazingly has an improved designs and increased speed. New technologies have been developed to drive this racing cars from beyond and push it to cross their limits. When talking about car racing, the first thing that comes inside my mind is aerodynamics. Well, aerodynamics when conquered, racing car can speed up to limitless speed without acquiring further damage in its exterior.
According to NAS, the challenge for each Indy Car Team is the same every year. Designing and develop a race car that is safe, durable, and competitive in different racing conditions is what every team wants to develop. Furthermore, cars must meet the demands of four different types of racing circuits, each course requiring a different aerodynamic and mechanical setup.
• Street: A narrow, temporary course ranging from 1.6 to 2.1 miles in length, with tight turns and a long straightaway. The Long Beach circuit (lap record 108.198 mph), tests the durability of the gearbox, braking system and low speed acceleration.
• Road: Laguna Seca Raceway (lap record 112.296 mph), is an example of a road course with hills. A road course is a wide open track that ranges in length from 1.9 to 4 miles. It has both slow and high speed corners and wide enough for passing. The suspension system, downhill braking and power are stressed on this type of course.
• Short Oval: Phoenix International Raceway (lap record 172.804 mph), is a one mile, long oval track. Short straightaways and banked turns are characteristics of this type of track. The short oval tests the suspension and aerodynamic setup of the car.
• Speedway: The speedway is an oval track with banked turns and long straightaways. The one lap record at the Michigan International Speedway (2 mile oval), is 234.275 mph. At Indianapolis (2.5 mile oval), the record is 232.618 mph. High, sustained speed requires aerodynamic efficiency.
The job of the team is to design a car that can be adjusted quickly to run properly in the above mentioned racing circuits. And since safety rules and regulation have been administered in car racing, engineers are challenged to become more inventive in creating more complex car. This has forced teams to concentrate on the total aerodynamic package of the race car. Teams that plan on staying competitive use track testing and wind tunnels to develop the most efficient aerodynamic design. The relationship between drag and down force is important. To further improve the aerodynamics of vehicles the wings are improved resulting to generation of down force on the race car with a minimum of drag.
As you can see, Down force is necessary for maintaining speed through the corners. Unwanted drag which accompanies down force will slow the car, thus engineers made an efficient design of a chassis which is base on the down force/drag compromise. Also they have considered the different race circuits in designing their cars. Generating the necessary down force is concentrated in three specific areas of the car. The ongoing challenge for team engineers is to fine tune the airflow around these areas.
• Front wing assembly - The front wing assembly is constructed of carbon fiber and is the first part of the car to meet the air mass. The flow field here is better than at other parts of the car because the air here has been disturbed the least. In setting up the front wing assembly, engineers must consider what happens to the airflow as it travels toward the back of the car. In an effort to clean up the disturbed airflow, small adjustments are made to the front of the car.
• Chassis - The car chassis is designed to produce maximum down force, while at the same time minimizing drag. Downforce produced by the front and rear wings and the under body which allows maximum speeds through the corners. To accomplish this the top of the car is designed to slice through the air, while the underbody is shaped to create an area of low pressure between the underbody and the track. The shape of the tunnels under the car resemble an inverted wing.
• Rear wing assembly - The rear wing is made of carbon fiber and is attached to the transmission housing.
Well, engineers of race cars have gone through a lot of testings and trial and errors in making speedy cars to endure the racing environment in different race circuits. No wonder in the near future engineers will finally create the fastest car in the racing history.

OVERSIZED TIRES MAKE YOUR DAY

Just last Sunday my brother customized his Mustang by means of installing a larger tires. Well, at first his kinda confuse what kind of tires he would buy. We spend the whole morning surfing the net and look for auto parts store where will we gonna buy a new extra large tire for his mustang when we stumbled on a some tips on how to buy oversized tires. Well, for your benefits, I have included here on my post some important tips which you may find beneficial when you have decided to oversize the tires of your car.

* Measure the fender wells on before you buy oversized tires. Remember that some oversized tires just won’t fit. This can be determined beforehand saving you from having to make a return trip.
* Trim your wheel arches if you want to buy oversized tires that your vehicle wouldn’t otherwise accommodate. you can do this if you don’t want to spend much to hire a mechanic.
* Decide if you want highway or off-road tires. THE REASEON: Off-road tires work fine on the highway but never use highway tires off-road as you risk getting stuck. Also, there is a difference in cost between these two oversized tires.
* Buy the oversized tires at a reputable dealer. A BIG CHECK FOR THIS TIP! Make sure the oversized tires aren’t so big that they compromise the safety of your vehicle. REMEMBER to Ask about a warranty.
* Arrange for installation of the oversized tires on your vehicle. THIS TIME you are required to hire a mechanic for you need to use special machinery.
* Purchase a spare oversized tire. FOR EMERGENCY! An average spare won’t work on your vehicle due to the height of the oversized tires. You can keep the tire deflated for space conservation and carry along a small compressor to inflate the tire if needed.

WRONG TIRES FOR MY AUTO

There are several instances when I have brought the wrong tire for my car. Each time I have bought the wrong car my daddy would say.. “ How many times do I have to tell you to check the specs of your car and check the tire you are going to buy?” Well… as usual, his words just come inside my ear and come out to my other ear LOL! Am such a tease! Anyway just this weekend, the same incident happen, I have bough the wrong tire! WHAAAAA! For me to avoid such kind of mistake again, I have researched on some tips on how to buy a new tire and avoid being mistaken.

* Think likely when tires need to be replaced. Examine the tread depth every 3,000 miles and shop around before you need to replace them.
* Decide likes and dislikes of current tires. Softer tires drive more comfortably, but they’ll wear faster. Firm tires are rigid and noisy, but they grip the road well.
* Know your tire’s speed rating. Purchase tires at that rating or higher. You can find it in your driver’s manual.
* State the weather and terrain you usually drive through to the service provider. For example you often drive through chunky snow, you may need snow tires, but these should only be used when snow is on the ground; they don’t drive well on dry roads. Pn the other hand if you drive through construction or unpaved roads, you may need firmer tires for the rough terrain. There are different types of tire suitable in every road configuration and climate, so be wise! Use the right tire to use in different driving environment.
* Check steering, suspension and brakes at a full service center. This check up prevents problems left over from your old tires causing unnecessary wear on your new tires. By doing so, you can prevent premature damages to your new car. Thus you’ll vaoid g\frequent tire replacement. Remember: Discount stores don’t have the capability to check for problems beyond tire replacement.
* Purchase a road hazard agreement. A lifetime plan covers tire maintenance, such as balance and rotation, and will save you money on tire repairs. By doing so, you’ll spend your money wisely. You’ll not be compromise with over spending!

Thanks to ehow for this amazing tips! Next time I am confident that i can get the right tires for my car..FINALLY! LOL!

GAS MILEAGE CAN BE EARNED!

1. Drive Sensibly

Estimated Savings: 7 to 49 cents per gallon

Aggressive driving includes speeding, rapid acceleration and constant braking. All of these facilitate waste of gas. To maintain constant speed, always pay attention to the traffic flow. You can lower gas mileage by as much as 22% on the highway and 5% on city streets by driving sensibly.

Source: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); cost savings are based on an assumed value of $3.23 a gallon.

2. Replace Dirty Air Filter

Estimated Savings: 15 to 32 cents per gallon

A clean air filter protects the engine and save gas. Thus, it is greatly important to replace a clogged air filter. It has proven that once you replace a your clogged air filter can increase gas mileage as much as 10%.

Source: EPA; cost savings are based on an assumed value of $3.23 a gallon.

3. Bypass High-Octane Gas

Estimated Savings: 15 to 35 cents per gallon

Buying a high-octane gasoline won’t improve your car’s performance but will add to your fuel cost.

Source: Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

4. Maintain the Speed Limit

Estimated Savings: 10 cents per gallon

Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph, thus by observing the speed limit and using cruise control during highway driving will conserve gas.

Source: EPA; cost savings are based on an assumed value of $3.23 a gallon.

5. Drop the Weight

Estimated Savings: 3 to 6 cents per gallon

Unload unnecessary and heavy luggage in your vehicle An extra 100 pounds could reduce your miles per gallon by up to 2%. Based on the percentage of extra weight relative to the vehicle’s total weight it affects smaller cars more than larger ones.

Source: EPA; cost savings are based on an assumed value of $3.23 a gallon.

6. Keep Tires Properly Inflated

Estimated Savings: Up to 10 cents per gallon

If your vehicle’s tire is not inflated properly, it’s just like driving with the parking brake on. This can cost a mile or two per gallon. You can improve your gas mileage by around 3.3% by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure.

Source: EPA; cost savings are based on an assumed value of $3.23 a gallon.

7. Use The Recommended Oil

Estimated Savings: 3 to 6 cents a gallon

Using a grade of oil recommended by the manufacturer of your car can improve your gas mileage by up to 2%.

Source: EPA; cost savings are based on an assumed value of $3.23 a gallon.

8 Avoid Long Idles

Estimated Savings: Additional miles per gallon

When you allow your vehicle to run idle longer that one minute is equivalent of putting your money in a trash. Shut off the car; it takes less gas to restart it than what is being used while sitting still. You are burning gas but getting zero miles per gallon.

Source: Car Care Council

9. Check Gas Cap

Estimated Waste: Gallons of gas each year

Gas caps that are damaged, loose or missing can cause gallons of gas to vaporize. So to be able to save you from gas overuse, send your car to the pump sooner than necessary.

Source: Car Care Council

10. Get a Plan

Estimated Waste: Gallons of gas each year

Plan your day. Trips to the grocery store, dry cleaners and shopping centers should be planned so you are not wasting time retracing your route. Make a list of what you need so you don’t forget something and have to make a return trip.

ROAD EMERGENCIES

Experiencing emergencies in the road is terrifying most especially if you are not prepared and it happen in the middle of a deserted are where there is no help around. My bother and I when we’re still in our teenage years, we often sneak out and bring along our dad’s pickup truck. Well, as a teenager we are not that familiar with auto stuffs, what matters is that we drive our dad’s car, hangout and that’s it! There’s this incident which somehow teach us a lesson, and never again run out with my dad’s pickup… (for just a few months… LOL) it was my bother’s 17th birthday at around midnight we decided to sneak out and watch a concert…. At first we are confident that we can go home before my dad find out that we bring his car with us. But then, when we are almost home the engine suddenly stops.

It was early in the morning when daddy finds out what we’ve done. He just laughs at us when we told him about what happen last night. He told us that he will suppose to send his car in the mechanic early this morning to have its battery be replaced. We later then find out that its engine stops because of a dead battery. In my post today, I will include some of car emergencies and some tips to get through with it without freaking out LOL!

Here it is!

Breakdowns

Prior to setting out from your vehicle, check your car’s location, double-check your resources, and make a plan. Remember to lock the doors and take your keys.

Use the nearest phone booth and call 911 for help and detail if you are being threatened.

If you ask help for a neighboring home, stand back from the door. Ask the resident to call for help for you, and give him your car details and exact location.

If it is dark or you are stuck in an isolated spot, it is better to stay locked inside your car until daylight.

If you are a long distance from a phone or house, flag down a passerby and then return to your car, locking it, and talk through a partly closed window. Give him your car details and exact location.

Frozen Locks

Dealing with frozen car locks is not only a frustrating delay, but can be dangerous for people left out in the elements, or in unsafe neighborhoods.

The best thing to do is to constantly heating the tip of your key with a match or lighter. If that doesn’t work, consider carrying a small de-icer spray bottle with you; locking it away without access in your glove compartment is worthless when your locks are frozen to begin with!

Flat Tires

I have a post about dealing with flat tires. You can browse it on my previous post.

If a tire blows out or otherwise suffers extensive damage, it can’t be repaired. But, if it had a puncture, remove the tire and mark the location for later repair. Since these things tend to travel in pairs, look for more punctures, and also listen for air leakage.

Change the tire by first making sure the car doesn’t move, setting the emergency brake, unscrewing the lug-nuts and taking off the tire. Replace with the spare, retighten the nuts and proceed to a gas station to have it patched—-or replaced.

Always bring with you a tire filler to inflate a problem tire and get you as far as the closest gas station for further repair. The tire does not need to be completely flat to use this, and it is not the permanent answer. It won’t, however, fix severe damage, repair sidewalls, rim leaks, or large punctures/cracks in wheels.

AUDIO SYSTEM GA-GA

Audio systems nowadays are integrated with a lot more features other than the traditional AM/FM tuning. These features are satellite radio; digital HD Radio from conventional stations; six-disc, in-dash CD changers; built-in hard drives for downloading music and photos; and connections for MP3 players, including iPod docks that power the device and let you control and play it through your car’s audio system. Also, several electronic devices are also included in cars audio system such as GPS navigators and DVD entertainments system.

When choosing an audio system for your car, you have to consider two factors. First, you must decide what brand you’ll buy Factory or Aftermarket. Second, is to consider what type of audio system is more cost-friendly, satellite or HD radio. After you have decide what best suits your preference and needs you can finally purchase what audio system you’ll buy.

Factory or aftermarket? Automaker systems, in general, have improved in quality and now offer an array of audio-system choices, ranging from basic to premium. But expect to pay a premium for a high-end factory system. And many don’t allow you to easily upgrade with new features or technology, or to replace the radio with a more up-to-date one. On the other hand, aftermarket audio system can give you more features for your buck with an aftermarket system. And you may be able to equip your car with advanced features that just weren’t available for the model you bought.

However, buying aftermarket requires more effort to shop for the right system for your needs and for one that fits your car. You can take the time to choose the individual components yourself and then take them to an installer, or consult with an installer for a complete system. But you might find that you can get a better system for the same or even less money by going aftermarket.
Before buying, check your car’s warranty to be sure that nothing you’re planning to do will void it.

Satellite or HD Radio? If you want better audio quality but don’t want to commit to a monthly subscription fee, you might want to give HD Radio a try. You can also explore the diverse subchannels that stations are beginning to broadcast. But you may want to wait before investing in HD-Radio equipment, especially as more and cheaper gear arrives and more stations add HD Radio capability.

On the other hand, if you want a much wider selection of music, news, sports, and other content than you can get through local stations, satellite radio is the way to go. It’s especially appealing if you travel out of your region a lot and don’t want to be limited to the local radio fare.

Tips:

* If you want to choose your own music on the road but don’t want to tote around a load of CDs, look for a system that includes a USB port, hard drive, or iPod/MP3-player integration
* if you already have an MP3 player or iPod, adding a hard-drive collection and setting up new play lists could consume lots of time to load.
* If you buy a system or aftermarket adapter with a built-in dock, you can charge the unit while you drive
* You can also retrofit an existing system to accept an iPod, albeit in a less elegant way than using an iPod dock.

An inexpensive solution is to have an audio shop install an input cable that plugs into the iPod’s headphone jack. In this way, you don’t have to worry about spending loads of money in buying an audio system which includes the features you want.

For music lovers,choose what’s the best audio system to put in your car, but always be sure that it is cost-friendly.

EXTENDING THE EXTENDABLE

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) provided checklist for car owners residing in areas with cold climates to do necessary maintenance in keeping their vehicles in shape. Hope what I have shared to you today would help you in keeping your vehicle perfectly working.

The first step on the checklist is to read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.

Engine Performance:

* Fix your engine’s drivability problems by sending your car to a trusted repair shop.
* Replace dirty filters.

REMEMBER that cold weather will make existing problems worse.

Fuel

* Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line.

REMEMBER: gas tank that’s kept filled helps prevent moisture from forming in the first place.

Oil

* Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual.

SUGGESTION: if your driving is mostly stop and go or you always go on short trips, you have to change it often every after 3,000 miles or so.

Cooling System

* The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended.
* The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. RECOMMENDED mixture of coolant is 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water
* The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a certified auto technician.

Heater/Defroster

* The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.

Windshield Wipers

* Replace old blades.

REMEMBER: in choosing a replacement for old blades consider the climate in your area, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Carry an ice-scraper. Stock up on windshield washer solvent — you’ll be surprised how much you use.

Battery

* The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment.
* Check fluid level monthly. If battery caps are removable
* For DO-IT-YOURSELF’ers scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections.,

CAUTION:

* Be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid.
* Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

TAKE NOTE: Removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data/codes on some newer vehicles so refers to your manual for instructions.

Lights

* Inspect all lights and bulbs.
* Replace burned out bulbs.
* Clean road grime from all lenses with a moistened cloth or towel ( do this frequently).

Exhaust System

* Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes.

CAUTION: Exhaust fumes can be deadly.

Tires

* Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather.
* Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks.
* Check tire pressure once a month.

REMEMVER: Let the tires “cool down” before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.

Emergencies

* Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box

These are some few steps on how to keep your car in perfect shape and thus extending its life. There are several ways you can do to keep you car in perfect condition, all you have to do is to look for reliable sources ( thanks to DoItYourself.com for this great tips). Furthermore, you can send you car in the mechanic every other month and have it checked. You can also send your car in a car wash ( if you are a busy person and no time to clean your car). See there are several ways in keeping your car in shape all you have to do is to know what your car needs!

Travelling with gadgets

Traveling with my electronic gadgets, especially my laptop is very important. I set my schedule on it, my appointments, my emails, presentations and almost everything! It is my personal notebook, only that it is more expensive and modern. Although I can do all these things manually on a real notebook, I'd rather do it with my laptop.

There are several things that you need to consider when you carry a laptop while traveling. The following tips will help make sure this can work:

Software

* Be sure that you use the same software on your laptop computer that you use on the desktop in the office. Why? Because it is frustrating to change versions or even brands of programs. It sure does set your day off if you’re trying to work on something that didn’t open in your laptop because of program incompatibility.
* Remember to load the latest anti-virus software onto you computer before leaving home. This is because many hotels and airport terminals do not encrypt their Internet connections. You can easily get a virus at one of these locations.
* Boot disks should not be overlooked. As much as possible bring them along with you. You should also bring the registration number that will be required when you have to re-install your programs. You may never know when is the time that you need to reinstall some important programs in your laptop.

Hardware

* Bring along electrical adapter plugs, especially if you travel overseas. REMEMBER: if you can not plug in, your system is lost.
* Phone cord, for the Internet connection, or your wireless access data card.
* Bring along an extra battery.

Passwords

. In order to prepare for your trip, load your passwords onto a computer file or write them down in a small notebook. Sometimes its hard for us to remember our passwords, but this ones is important in opening files and other things you’re doing in your laptops.

Prevent Theft

To keep your computer from being stolen, consider disguising it while you are traveling. Place it in a backpack or other unconventional tote bag. Such gadgets like laptops are easy to carry and to hide that is why it is easy to be stolen, how many black computer bags are seen being carried through the airports every day? Once you have arrived in your destination, don’t leave your laptop out while you’re away from the room. Consider investing in a motion alarm, which will sound when the baggage is carried a certain distance away from you.

Traveling with a laptop is such a frustrating experience, but then… its not suppose to be that hard. With a little planning and preparedness, you will be ready to work on your computer no matter where your travel takes you.

PREVENTIVE TECHNIQUE against car accident

You don't wanna get involved with life threatening car accidents, do you? All of us have the same answer to that. The rate of car accidents is increasing yearly, I guess its time for us to make an action and avoid accidents in the road as much as possible. It was a year ago when I saw a real drama of a fatal car accident nearby our house. It makes me shiver looking at the victims, bloody, unconsciously lying on the stretcher as they where brought in the nearby hospital. Then I said to myself… “I guess its time for me to drive cautiously from now on….”.
There are several things we can do to avoid accidents in the road. In facts a lot of writers have published tips on hoe to avoid accidents… its all up to you to read it… not just read…But to DO IT. Here are some of the tips I’ve gathered from the articles I’ve read for you to read and remember to avoid getting caught in a car accidents:
• Avoid driving in the “fast lane”. Always use the right or center lane in multi road lanes, with this you have a more escape routes, so if ever there is a problem suddenly arise, you can quickly change lane and pull-over.
• Check for cars twice before pulling into an intersection at a stop sign.
• Don’t just look at the car in front of you, but as well as the traffic in front of that car as well. With this, you can easily make sensible decisions if ever a problem arises.
• Always adjust the side and rearview mirrors to reduce blind spots. With a projected mirror in the proper direction, you can have a clearer view in the rear of your vehicle.
• Be very careful when you are close to trucks.
• Avoid driving using one hand or both hands resting at the bottom of the steering wheel. Drive with your hands in the 9 and 3′o clock position, because this recommended position allows you to have a complete control in the steering wheel.
• Position your seat close to the steering wheel, this will allow you to rest your wrist on the top of the wheel your arm outstretched and your back against the seat. With this position, you can have a complete control to the steering wheel for some last minute evasive maneuvers.
• This is what i usually do when driving… “JUDGE THE DRIVER BY HIS/HER CAR’S CONDITION. Avoid cars with a damaged windows or any body damage, it pertains that the owner is inattentive. Also, drifting in the lanes identifies a drunk or cell- preoccupied driver or a tired driver. better avoid getting closely in contact with this drivers.
• Be aware and know your car’s limitation. Pay attention to how your vehicle reacts in certain situations — in times of braking, power steering and cornering. This will give you an idea about the limits of your car’s brakes, how much grip do your tires have and how long does it take before your car stops after applying maximum pressure.
• KEEP YOUR CAR IN GOOD SHAPE!
• Many people prefer to drive at night to avoid traffic… but it comes with more hazards. Drive carefully when driving in a dark road…. and for goodness’ sake DON’T DRIVE WITH A BUSTED HEADLIGHT.
• The last tip on my list…..
Take responsibility when driving. You can only control what you do on your wheel, not what your other drivers do. It’s not a time to return phone calls or shave or log onto your e-mail.

NOT A CAR ACCIDENT, PLEASE...

Have you been into a car accident? A friend or someone close to your heart? Increasing cases of car accidents is a sign that no one is ever safe when driving in every road around the world. That is why, I have made up my mind to learn some important things that I need to remember in moments that I get caught in a car accident. I have read several articles about surviving car accidents and one thing that I have learned from those write up is that… “You are your own best friend when it comes to surviving a disaster.” Yes… you are the one responsible in every thing you do… in moment that you are fighting for your life in times of accidents.
Since you cannot bring along all the safety kits in your household when driving, here are a few tips that may help you in moments that your are completely vulnerable when you are caught in an accident.
Know that help is not on the way: The first thing that you need to put in your mind is that, the only person you can depend on is yourself. You are all alone and all that maters in you and you and you! Remember that help will not be on the way… bear in mind that you don’t have to wait for help… but instead… help yourself.
Don’t be your own worst enemy: For you to survive car accidents don’t be your own worst enemy… overcome your fear… cross the boundaries of life and death. Remember that when you are caught in a car accident, it is not about your fear of doing things that may hurt you… but instead… fear to die because of not doing anything to fight for your life.
According to Lawrence Nordhoff, Jr., D.C., accident reconstructionist and author of two texts on vehicle collisions there are several things you can do to survive a car crash when you only have split second to fight for your life.
• “Tighten up and brace yourself holding on firmly to the ten o’clock and two o’clock position of the steering wheel.” This can help you protect yourself from suffering more serious injury.
• The idea of remaining loose and relaxed is wrong! Contracted muscles protect the bones, discs, ligaments and nerves.
• “Keep your wrists flat, not bent,” to prevent wrist injuries.
• “Face forward, look straight ahead and sit squarely against the back of your seat.” Never allow passengers to bend forward in airbag-equipped cars because this may cause a more serious injury,
• “When stopped, keep an eye on your rear view mirror.” You have a better chance of not being injured or acquire a more serious injury if you’re aware of the oncoming collision.
• Sit at least 6 inches away from the steering wheel to avoid serious injury caused by the airbag crushing into your chest.
• The headrest must contact the area just above your ears. With this position, you can be safe from a more serious injury in your chest.
• Never place the shoulder harness behind your back. This may cause a serious spinal cord injury.
There are also things you can do a second before a car crash occurs. In the seconds before a car crash occurs, you only have time to slow down as much as possible and steer so as to reduce the speed at which the cars collide. The slower you are traveling when you start to decelerate, the slower the speed of the crash will be, which makes this a good reason to stay within the speed limit.

SAFETY AND MORE

In my previous post, I have included several tips on how you will prevent car accidents and be safe all through out your ride through your tires. Now, I am featuring high-tech car safety technologies that may caught your interest to be equipped you ride for your personal safety. These safety technologies are appeared to be reliable in avoiding accidents in the road. So, here its is!
1. Tire-pressure monitoring. These includes sensors at the wheels are able to alert you if the air pressure is too low by an audible warning, a light on the instrument panel, or both. You may also see more cars with run-flat tires, which allow a vehicle to continue to run at a relatively high rate of speed for 50-plus miles. This technology would surely help you in avoiding flat tires and other undesirable circumstances.
2. Adaptive cruise control/collision mitigation. This technology maintains the constant speed of your ride. Also it is equipped with sensors and utilize radar. This amazing technology can now adjust the throttle and brakes to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you if there are changes in traffic speed or if a slowpoke cuts in. If the system senses a potential collision, it typically will brake hard and tighten the seatbelts. Once it knows the lane is clear or traffic has sped up, it will return your car to its original cruising speed, all without your input. Of course, you may override the system by touching the brakes. The Mercedes-Benz and Maybach systems go by a less obvious name: Distronic.
3. Blind-spot detection/side assist/collision warning
This technology is designed to alert you to cars or objects in your blind spot during driving or parking, or both. Usually it will respond when you put on your turn signal; if it detects something in the way, it may flash a light in your mirror, cause the seat or steering wheel to vibrate, or sound an alarm. This is more of a short-range detection system.
4. Lane-departure warning/wake-you-up safety
This is similar to blind-spot/side-assist technology but with more range. It judges an approaching vehicle’s speed and distance to warn you of potential danger if you change lanes. It can also warn if it determines your car is wandering out of the lane, which could be useful if you become distracted. This could come in the form of a vibration through the seat or steering wheel, or an alarm. Also, this helps the driver in monitoring body posture, head position and eye activity to decide if the driver is falling asleep and the vehicle is behaving erratically.
5. Occupant-sensitive/dual-stage airbags. This technology can sense the different sizes and weights of occupants as well as seatbelt usage, abnormal seating position, rear-facing child seats and even vehicle speed. While driver, passenger and side curtain airbags are nothing new, sensing airbags are popping up everywhere.
6. Emergency brake assist/collision mitigation. This technology recognizes when the driver makes a panic stop and will apply additional brake pressure to help shorten the stopping distance. It may also work in conjunction with the smart cruise control or stability control system in some vehicles if it senses a potential collision.
7. Adaptive headlights and/or night-vision assist. This amazing safety technology generates an image through a cockpit display, brightening the objects that are hard to see with the naked eye. Adaptive headlights follow the direction of the vehicle. They may also be speed-sensitive, or compensate for ambient light.
8. Rearview camera cameras not only protect your car, but also protect children and animals from accidental back-overs. Backing up your car has graduated from side mirrors tilting down or causing chirps and beeps to real-time viewing.

TIRELESS TIRES

The key to make your tires last longer is properly maintaining them. This means you need to know when and how to look for damages and problems and how to avoid it. By regularly inspecting your tires is the best way to increase your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and performance, reduce harmful emission, and make your vehicle safe when traveling and most importantly save money from avoiding frequent tire replacement. There are several ways to maintain your tire in perfect working condition.

* Check the tire pressure at least once a month. It is very important because driving a car that does not have a correct inflation pressure is dangerous because underinflated tire builds up excessive heat that may result in sudden tire destruction. You can find the proper inflation pressure for your tires in the vehicle owner’s manual or the vehicle’s tire information placard.
* Avoid high speed driving. Although your tires have the correct inflation pressure, traveling at high speeds is hazardous because it gives a bigger chance for tire damages. Moreover, driving at high speed reduces the reaction time available to avoid accidents and bring your vehicle to a safe stop.
* Wheel alignment and balancing are important for safety and maximum mileage from your tires.
* Do not overload your tires. Driving on any overloaded tire is very dangerous. The maximum load rating of your tires is marked on the tire sidewall. Do not exceed these ratings.
* Proper tire rotation is important. If you notice irregular wears in the tires of your vehicle, it should be rotated to alleviate the problem. It is essential to check your tires and wheels for signs of possible damage and check your vehicle for any
* Regularly check your tires as much as possible for foreign matter in the tread, or other objects that could cause leaks.

GOOD PAINT FOR GOOD LOOKS

Attaining a brand new look for your car is easy by just having a paint job. If you just sent your car in the body shop and have it painted, there are a few things you need to recognize to save your investment from low quality paint jobs. Here are some of the pointers which you may find beneficial to find out if the car you acquire has a good paint job.
1. Examine the car’s paint to determine whether the paint is even in appearance or has areas that are lighter than others. Faded areas are a sign that the paint job is not done well.
2. The thicker the paint, the better the quality of the car paints. Choose a mechanical gauge containing a magnet when measuring car paint on steel
3. Use an eddy current device when measuring the quality of paint on other metals, including aluminum in your vehicle. A gauge that combined both a magnet and an eddy current can measure both steel and other metals
4. Test the quality of paint on plastic portions of your car with an ultrasonic device. The device generates a pulse and later will be converted into an electrical signal that measures the thickness of the paint.

DIY CARWASH

A simple and easy carwash seemed to be a perfect idea in a bright weekend morning, but there’s a slight hazard with which a careless washer could harm the smooth finish of your vehicle. :( If it is carelessly wipe and waxed it leaves scratches and stains that could give you extra problem to solve. Thus, you need to be aware that these potential problems may occur after you send your treasured vehicle to car washing. For you to know, here is a list of some basic car washing does and don’ts that may help you to preserve your vehicle’s finish in best condition.

Don’ts……. :| Don’t wait to do a full wash if you see bird droppings, dead bugs, or other obvious contaminants building up on the paint surface. Particularly bird droppings have an acidity that could eat into your clear coat if left in a long time. If these bird droppings are left long enough, it causes scars that can only be removed with repainting. Clean this harmful debris once it gets contact with your vehicle’s surface as soon as possible, using either water or an instant-detailer type of product.

Do’s……….. :) Rinse your vehicle off after a period of rainy weather if your region suffers from acid rain. The chemicals contained by the rainwater that is remained in the surface of your vehicle if evaporated, will leave a mark that can permanently stain your paintjob.

Cool Features that you can add to your ride!

If you are driving with budget-priced cars, you’ve got a lot of options to choose for in order to add the convenience that you are experiencing along your ride. Shopping these days is made a lot easier with the use of the internet. You can find several cool gadgets that you may find interesting to integrate in your ride. Here are some of the gadgets that I find beneficial in every driver and ass some convenience and enhance the functionality of your car. Some of these gadgets may seemed much more like just plain luxurious, it as well give you the convenience you need. So here it is! I listed these gadgets according to my personal choice.

1. Bluetooth connectivity: Bluetooth is a wireless signal that allows phones to be connected to other Bluetooth-enabled cars. With the use of this amazing gadget, you don’t need to have a hard connection. It allows you to receive calls without physically holding the phone. Furthermore, there are features in phones that can be very functional in making transactions a lot better with the use of Bluetooth like multiple calls without the driver ever taking his or her eyes off the road.
2. Satellite radio: If you’re a frequent road tripper, satellite radio is a must. With satellite radio, your listening options will always be up-to-date. These satellite radios are found in all trims of the Chevrolet Cobalt and sometimes offered in Mazda 3.
3. Premium-Branded Stereo. This gadget produces great sounds like the home stereo components. With the use of this amazing gadget you can ride with your treasured vehicle while listening to your favorite music.
4. Heated front seats: A heated driver seat can be a when you are driving on a cold winter day. It is very good when you are stressed out and want to relax your back and shoulder muscles from a strenuous day of work.
5. Navigation system: A good navigation system can save you from the inconvenience and embarrassment of getting lost. These systems are useful both on long road trips and in shorter travels around town.
6. Keyless entry: Not having to fumble for keys when entering or exiting a vehicle adds a whole lot of value when it comes to convenience. With keyless entry, you gain access to your car without removing the fob from your pocket.
7. Auxiliary steering-wheel-mounted audio controls: Auxiliary audio controls conveniently mounted on your car’s steering wheel. This technology is standard on some trims of the Mitsubishi Lancer.
8. iPod Connection. In the world today, when almost everyone is updated with the current trends, like the iPod inspired car makers to create a gadget that would connect your ride with this amazing technology. With an iPod-specific connection you can navigate through tracks using the car’s audio system controls. In many cases this means using steering-wheel-mounted buttons and never having to take your eyes off the road.
9. Air filtration system: Air filtration system can clean the air in your car, ridding it of pollen and helping you to avoid watery eyes and a runny nose. It’s also useful in preventing unpleasant outside odors from making their way into the cabin. This technology gives a lot convenience to people suffering from asthma and other related ailment.
10. Heated and/or Cooled Cupholders keeps drinks stored in the glovebox cool when the air-conditioner is running. Also, it offers heated and cooled cupholders so your morning latte remains nice and toasty during the winter and your iced mocha can stay chilly.

Note that the vehicle included in the lists isn’t meant to be comprehensive. Rather, they’re intended to offer a sampling of the cars that can be equipped with these useful features.

Top 10 reasons Why People Reject Cars

As time goes by, cars become more and more in demand for public use. As a result, car manufacturers do necessary innovation to meet both the demands and expectations of car consumers. There are several features that consumers consider before deciding to buy a car that includes performance, appearance and costs. Several surveys have conducted in order to know and identify what are the features that a vehicle should posses in order for consumers to buy it. As I am surfing the net, i happened to visit Forbes Autos and there I stumbled on an article “Top 10 Reasons People Reject a Car”. Here are the top 10 reasons i have read in the article…

In the tech age, people are more in love with their gadgets — and more demanding of them — than ever before. And they’re not going to be attracted to a car they consider to be a luddite model. J.D. Power’s findings also suggest a Website is a good way for automakers to attract prospective buyers.

9. Not Enough Performance*

The test drive is still a vital part of the decision-making process. If the car doesn’t corner and accelerate smoothly, the sale probably won’t go smooth either. And a bad review that says a car drives poorly also plants a bad seed in the public’s mind.

8. Not Comfortable Enough*

While people are hungry for smaller models, they still want room to stretch their legs. And they’ll vote with their feet if a car makes them feel cramped.

7. Doesn’t Get Enough Gas Mileage*

Not surprisingly, this factor is on the rise as a reason why people turn away from a particular model. Nearly twice as many people listed fuel economy as an avoidance factor in J.D. Power’s survey than three years ago.

6. Vehicle Is Too Small*

This is one problem American models typically don’t have. While smaller cars may be more affordable, growing families still need larger vehicles, meaning minivans and SUVs — the sweet spot of domestic automakers — will always occupy a strong position in the market.

5. Poor Quality*

Even though this list pertains to foreign and domestic models, it’s American automakers that face an uphill climb when convincing buyers their cars are up to the task. J.D Power’s research director Jon Osborne suggests American automakers “get out in front” of younger buyers with a strong marketing message to convince them to put domestic models on their shopping lists.

4. Vehicle Would Depreciate Too Fast*

Maybe people have cars confused with their South Beach condos, but return on investment (ROI) is indeed a concern for any large expenditure. Even though people are shopping for a new car, a small part of them is already thinking about the trade in value.

3. Too Expensive*

With the economy hitting a rough patch because of the mortgage crisis, buyers will be on the lookout for bargains. J.D. Power says it may be lights out for models that are perceived to be overpriced in the current environment.

2. Concerned About Reliability*

An unreliable product isn’t going to attract many consumers. And this stings domestic models particularly hard, because many consumers believe domestics are less reliable than foreign models — a reputation J.D. Power’s Osborn and most auto experts say is no longer deserved. But perception can sometimes make its own reality.

1. Don’t Like the Look or Design*

Just like any purchase, consumers want to buy something that’s aesthetically pleasing and attractive. If someone doesn’t like what they see, the rest of the automobile really doesn’t matter.

Tell me, which among these ten simple but good reasons do you agree with?

Top 10 Hottest Automotive Technology

There are several emerging technologies used in designing vehicles nowadays. These technologies will soon improve fuel efficiency, increase safety, aid navigation and repair in vehicles. As I am surfing the net I happened to stumble in a post authored by Rudy Hiebert about the top 10 hottest technology on vehicles within the next decade. These new road-breaking technology will soon be applied to modern vehicles and would surely give potential improvement in the car consumer’s way of life. Here are the top 10 new technologies that is expected to hit in the market place in the years to come:


New technology expected to hit the marketplace within the next decade:

1) Active safety systems will include radar and cameras that watch for danger. “We’ve put airbags just about every place you can.” Says Toyota Product-planning Manager, John Weiner, “Within the next five years the car will use algorithms to anticipate hazards and intervene or warn the driver.

2) Keyless entry has already been implemented on certain Cadillac, Infinity and BMW models and will be introduced to approximately 40 different vehicles in the next three years. Credit card style systems will replace car keys.

3) Navigation systems such as computer-like screens on the dash, displaying navigation systems that employ global positioning satellite and onboard DVD’s to provide the driver with distractions, maps, and information on businesses such as hotels, hospitals and restaurants. The video screens will also have the capability to connect to PDA’s and cellular phones.

4) Wi-Fi hook-ups in almost every vehicle will provide weather, news, and other information. “We’re going to see hot spots in places like gas stations and restaurants,” says Peter Wengert, marketing manager for automotive products at Microsoft.

5) Data collection will give vehicles the capability to collect pertinent data that can be shared with dealers, manufacturers, and other vehicles helping service personnel perform remote diagnostics and help troubleshoot for a broken down motorist.

6) Onboard cameras will help detect blind spots, while helping parents watch their kids. Many recreational vehicles already have this technology at the rear and in front to “see” around corners.

7) 40 Volt Electrical Systems will become standard to accommodate the many new electric devices.

8.) Voice commands are already in certain BMW’s, Jaguar and Lexus models and will become common and necessary in order to operate the various functions in cars.

9) Electronic pedals already in use in Mercedes, Chevy Corvette and all recent Audi vehicles, brake-by-wire and accelerate by wire pedals send an electronic signal rather than activating a physical connection to the engine and brakes. Emergency brake handles will also be replaced by electronic controls.

10) Programmable vehicles will let you use electronics to express your choice of vehicle you wish to drive, says Stanford professor of mechanical engineering Chris Gerdes. “You can have it be as sporty or luxurious, as you choose.” Drivers of the new Audi A8, for example can change the car’s ride by raising and lowering road clearance.

Still, and even with the availability of these electronically controlled vehicles, one can always make a choice. If you favor manual controls and you find goodness in fiddling your performance parts inside your engine bay, you can continue using your manual vehicle. Also, there are also new models that includes manual transmissions on their lineup so there is no way, you will be outdated. These are vehicles that are not fully electronic but bettered with additional amenities and safety devices, but the same manual controls are left for your pleasure. So watch out for these new technologies and be excited, be really excited! Who knows what you'll gonna see in the future?

Dealing with gas prices

* Drive less. Walk, bike, ride the bus or join a car pool. Reduce your commute by moving closer to work or working closer to home. Combine trips and make to-do-lists to avoid having to go back. Call ahead to avoid wasted trips.
* Walk between stops. Once you get into town, some of your stops may be near each other. Park between some or all of them and walk.
* Parking in the first spot you find in the parking lot. If you wander all over the parking lot looking for that really close parking space, you’ll use more gas.
* Use the lowest recommended octane for your car. The lower octane gas is cheaper. Check your owner’s manual to be sure, as not all car engines should use lowest octane gas.
* Determine whether gas with ethanol is right for your vehicle. However, 10% or less ethanol actually helps gasoline burn more completely, resulting in better economy.
* Compare ethanol price. Fuel with ethanol may be more expensive than standard gas, but the minimal price difference is often offset by lower fuel taxes or subsidies.
* Don’t fill until the last quarter tank. If you do this, it can extend your gas because you are hauling a lighter load as the tank nears empty. However, in cold weather, you run an increased risk of condensation in the fuel tank.
* Don’t top off the tank. It is wasted money and bad for the environment since the extra gas evaporates in 10 minutes of driving.
* Change car oil regularly. Properly maintaining your car will keep your car running as efficiently as possible. Use synthetic oil instead of mineral oil. This will cause your engine to run better and give you better mileage.
* Upgrade air filter. More efficient brands of air filters cost a little more but will pay for themselves in most vehicles in fuel savings. Clogged air filters cause engines to work overtime which requires more fuel.
* Use a fuel injector cleaner or complete fuel system treatment occasionally. Not only will you see a boost in gas mileage, but in your car’s overall performance. Fouled injectors vaporize fuel poorly, affecting how completely the fuel is burned.
* Clean out any unnecessary items in your car. If your car is lighter, it will use less fuel to get where you’re going. If you have a bicycle or ski rack, remove it when you’re not using it. It causes drag and lowers mileage.
* Avoid idling. While idling, your car gets exactly 0 miles per gallon while starting the car uses the same amount as idling for 30 seconds. TIP: Park your car and go into the restaurant rather than idling in the drive-through. Idling with the air conditioning on also uses extra fuel.
* Plan your trips in advance. This can prevent wasting fuel and wasting time. Use alternative routes. Often back roads can prevent you from stopping at traffic lights and more importantly sitting in traffic jams. TIP: Try to schedule your trips and errands when traffic is lighter.
* Use a global positioning system (GPS) to help you navigate and find the fastest and shortest distance to your destination.
* Drive at a consistent speed. Avoid quick acceleration and hard braking.
* If approaching a red light, see if you can slow down enough to avoid having to actually stop.
* Take off slowly from a full stop. This is one adjustment that will have dramatic effects on your gas mileage; don’t tear off from a stoplight or stop sign!
* Stay well away from store fronts where you will spend significantly more time idling and waiting for pedestrians and other vehicles.
* Shift into neutral if you are not comfortable with down shifting. NOTE: This strategy will result in more wear and tear on your brakes.
* Park in the shade because gasoline actually evaporates right out of your tank, and it does so faster when you park directly under the sun - winter or summer.

Tinting Your Lights

One great way in customizing your car is by tinting the lights. To do this, there are a few steps to follow. It can be done in less than an hour provided with the right things needed like:<
• VHT Niteshades (or other black transparent paint)
• 1 can of clearcoat paint
• 600 & 1500 grit sandpaper
• painters tape
Follow these steps and you’ll surely attain the best tinted lights ever!
• The first thing you need to do is to scrub the lights and make it clean. Just be sure not to get the electrical components wet.
• With the use of 600 grit sandpaper sand the light in the desired areas you wish to tint.
• Then wipe away any plastic debris removed during the sanding process with the use of a wet rag.
• Tape-off the areas which you do not wish to be tinted in the light assembly.
• Place lights in a well ventilated area with as little dust as possible.
• Hold the can UPRIGHT about 12-15 inches away from the lights. Apply the basic coat. Don’t go too thick on the coats.
• Wait for 15-20 minutes between each coat. Sand the coat with 1500-2000 grit sandpaper if desired to remove any imperfections in the paint job. Apply as many coats as you wish until desired darkness is reached.
• After letting the final coat of nightshades dry for 30 minutes or so. Then you can now apply clear coat in the same manner as the tint spray. Apply 2-3 coats of clear coat. Let the lights dry for a few hours after the process is complete.
• Then reinstall the light in your car.
Warnings and Tips
• When using the spray tint, spray many light coats instead of heavy ones because the tint will easily run.
• You can put stickers to add designs in your light. Remember to remove it before you spray the clear coat.
• Don’t spray heavily. Many light coats will render a much better project.

DIY, last segment

Take a look at all the devices in your life, and which one seems the most resistant to DIY improvements, repairs and useful tweaking? The answer, most likely, is that four-wheeled gadget resting just outside. But while many of us lifehack fans aren't as comfortable in our driveways as our desktops, there are lots of cheap and (mostly) simple ways to get more from your vehicle and make driving and owning it a bit more enjoyable. Today we've rounded up 10 of our favorite car-related tips and tricks that work whether you're at one with your engine or regard your ride as a mysterious four-wheel transporter.



8. Find your car anywhere
Few things feel like wasted time more than wandering a vast parking lot, searching out a car that looks just like all the others. To prevent the problem, take a picture of your car and its notable surroundings to quickly re-orient yourself when you come back. Forget to grab that pic? Hold your fob up to your head to boost your alarm-inducing signal and find your ride. Still can't spot your wheels? Try a few other tried-and-true tips. Hate the idea of using your "panic" button for anything, much less a game of parking lot Marco Polo? Feel free to simply and quickly disable it.



9. Clean your engine (and other parts) for better service
Apologies in advance if this comes off like an over-bearing, car-obsessed relative, but a little time spent with soap and water saves you a lot of ruined clothes and grunt-inducing frustration later on. Cleaning out your engine compartment, for example, makes it easier for mechanics (and yourself) to find leaks, belt and hose breaks, and other problems, and you'll also get a cooler-running motor from your efforts. Check out 74 more wise tips on keeping your car running in tip-top shape.




10. Make your own storage space
Just because your car's designer was uninspired by the driver's-side space doesn't mean you can't have convenience and easy storage within arm's reach. Using some duct tape, yogurt cups, and other common items, you can put together your own DIY car console, or spend a bit more time and care to craft something a bit more slick-looking. And, while not technically all-the-way-DIY, adhering a sticky pad to your dashboard can serve as seriously convenient, no-stick place to keep your gadgets.

Autopartswarehouse.com : Top 10 DIY Car Hacks Continued

1. Fix a dent yourself
Hitting another car almost always means a trip to the body shop, but what about that little ding from the mailbox, the garbage can, or the really inconvenient parking sign? Grab yourself some dry ice, or a hair dryer and a can of compressed air, and you've got two cheap solutions for popping your car's body back into shape. It might not work with serious body repairs, but it saves you a hefty labor charge for fixing cosmetic flaws. Photo by tylerkaraszewski.
A lot of this stuff (most of it, in fact) has been covered before in previous posts, and we're always on the lookout for clever and low-cost ways to make owning and driving a car more convenient and, well, fun. What's the neatest or most elegant car hack you've seen or made yourself? Share your successes in the comments, and we'll consider them for future posts (with credit!).
2. Connect your MP3 player, no transmitters involved
There's no end to the ways you can integrate your iPod, iPhone, or other portable device into your dashboard—if you're willing to shell out for that top-shelf car or after-market stereo. But break out your screwdriver and you can easily tap into, or add, an auxiliary jack to your stereo. Wired's How to issue shows you how to plug into existing jacks (scroll down to "Wire your car stereo ..."), while Make magazine offers a simple soldering solution to add your own line-in connection.



3. Fix cracks and scratches with nail polish
Nail polish can do many, many things, and its clear variety is no less an amazing solve-all. Need to slow a crack in a windshield or window before you can get to the glass shop? Nail polish has you covered. Got a little ding you want to prevent from rusting? Clear nail polish does the trick. Better still, if you can find a nail polish shade that (closely) matches your car's paint job, it can work as less-expensive touch-up paint, since the two paints are eerily close in nature. Photo by wrestlingentropy.



4. Remove coffee and other tough stains
It's the basic math of the morning commute: Hot liquid + Velocity + Distraction = Stains. Take a few minutes and some household items, however, and you can save your car's interior from looking like the break room carpet. Check out this eHow guide to get started, and then consider using less cream in your java to prevent similarly tough stains in the future. If oil or gasoline hitch a ride on your shoes and onto the carpets, try dryer lint or dish detergent, respectively, to banish them.



5. De-ice a lock with hand sanitzer
As pointed out by a commenter and others, a tiny tube of water-less hand sanitizer does more than keep germs away—its heavy alcohol content can also break down ice. Squirt some in a resistant lock, and spend less time in the cold, fumbling with cold metal keys.



6. Clean your windshield with a razor blade
If you live near a gas station with a freely-available (and relatively clean) squeegee bin, you're in luck. If not, don't settle for a view crusted and hazed over with dirt and bug guts. Keep a covered razor blade in your glove compartment for a quick means of dealing with noticeable blotches, and it might just come in handy in other situations, as well. Photo by Antediluvial.




7. "Hypermile" for better fuel economy
We're never going to recommend shutting down your engine and riding a tractor-trailer's draft, but you can learn a thing or two from the folks who take their gas mileage very, very seriously. Here are a few tips gleaned from Wise Bread's take on hypermiling:
• Track your mileage: You can't tell if your efficiency efforts are working unless you're keeping track. Try resetting the odometer every time you refill your tank, rather than trying to note and guess mileages individually.
• Leave lots of space ahead of you: It not only shows you paid attention during driving lessons, it gives you more time to gradually slow down instead of slamming on your brakes and losing all your momentum.
• Use cruise control more often: Accelerate gradually over a distance and you save on all the gas eaten up by lead-footed acceleration.

Mcdonald’s Cooking Oil Used in Police Cars in Manila

Mcdonald’s will donate some cooking oil that will be used in police squad cars in Manila. According to CBS report, the said cars will run on 60 percent diesel and 40 percent cooking oil and the Philippine National Police Makati branch could save $10,000 a year in diesel, and they aim to aims to convert squad cars in Manila's bustling central business district to run on a combination of 60 percent diesel and 40 percent cooking oil, according to police Senior Superintendent Gilbert Cruz.

Mcdonald’s is the first fast food chain to offer donations for the program - oil used to cook French fries and fried chicken, but other restaurants may soon help to grease the wheels of law enforcement. The Autopartswarehouse.com blog notes that traffic enforcers are using electric jeepneys in Makati City. The Philippines are sounding very savvy when it comes to green technologies.

Energy saving tips for cars, part 1

Energy saving tips for cars have got to be a good way of reducing the impact on the environment on than while we wait for better public transport or alternative fuels etc, so here are the energy saving tips for cars from autopartswarehouse.com:

Switch off your air conditioning could save you 16% of your gas.

Driving with your windows down can reduce MPG by 8%

Make sure your tires are at the right pressure to save 1-2%

Energy efficient tires can reduce fuel costs by 5%

Keep your speed down.

Accelerate (and decelerate) slowly rather than in one big burst. Planning ahead is the most useful thing. If you must make short trips save up a group of them and do them all at once.

Choose a route and time of day to travel that is less congested and allows you to cruise at a steady speed, acceleration is not your friend. Keep a good gap to the car in front so you can choose how to brake and accelerate and look well ahead so you can change speed gradually in response to the traffic.

Use the car as little as possible when it, the car, is cold. In its first couple of miles from cold the fuel consumption is very poor indeed. This is one of the reasons grouping journeys together is a good thing.

Weight is your enemy. Every kilogram you have to accelerate uses fuel. Don't carry anything you don't need to. Go on a diet.

Take your roof rack off when not in use, above 30 mph it will add significantly to your fuel bills and pollution.

When choosing a new car avoid automatics, only the Audi multitronic gets close to manual efficiency.

Drop the motorway cruising speed and the fuel consumption is 2% better. Not bad for an automatic.

Start the engine only when ready to go & set off immediately. Avoid revving up & push in a manual choke as soon as possible.

Control your speed as traveling at less than 15mph creates the most pollution. As your speed increases up to 60mph your level of pollution decreases, traveling over 60mph increases your level of pollution again. 40-55 mph is the most economical speed. At 70 mph you use up to 30% more fuel than at 50 mph. Drive steadily & read the road to maneuver smoothly.

Harsh acceleration and braking can use up to 30% more fuel and can cause increased wear and tear on the vehicle, especially brake pads & tires.

Get in the right gear, preferably top. Change before 2,500 revs per minute.

Avoid idling. Shut off the engine when standing still for one minute or more.

Check tires monthly. 7psi under-inflation wastes half a gallon per tank & will wear out your tires faster.

Start the engine only when ready to go & set off immediately. Avoid revving up & push in a manual choke as soon as possible.

Control your speed as traveling at less than 15mph creates the most pollution. As your speed increases up to 60mph your level of pollution decreases, traveling over 60mph increases your level of pollution again. 40-55 mph is the most economical speed. At 70 mph you use up to 30% more fuel than at 50 mph. Drive steadily & read the road to maneuver smoothly.

Harsh acceleration and braking can use up to 30% more fuel and can cause increased wear and tear on the vehicle, especially brake pads & tires.

Get in the right gear, preferably top. Change before 2,500 revs per minute.

Avoid idling. Shut off the engine when standing still for one minute or more.

Check tires monthly. 7psi under-inflation wastes half a gallon per tank & will wear out your tires faster.

Road Driving Tips

Paying attention to the road while driving is one of the most essential thing that you need to do when you’re on the road. But better keep these tips when you’re driving your car.

Autopartswarehouse.com wants you car owners to take note of these tips in order for you to prevent accidents.

Have a safe trip!

Rule 1: Pay Attention!

"I never saw him!" is the most common excuse heard after a collision. Was the other vehicle invisible? Virtually all collisions involve inattention on the part of one or both drivers. Inattention can involve many things, some of which are daydreaming, distractions, sleepiness, fatigue, "highway hypnosis," talking, etc.

A moving vehicle develops thousands of foot-pounds of energy. YOU as a driver have the responsibility not to use that energy to injure or kill others, or damage their property. Paying attention makes it possible for you to see, recognize and avoid the hazards lurking on the road; these are the three basic elements of defensive driving. The primary attribute necessary for a safe driver is alertness, and paying attention is the most important driving task because it helps create the time you need to recognize hazards and avoid a collision.

One statistic often quoted is that most collisions happen within a short distance from home. Why is this true? Since we mostly drive in our own neighborhoods, the odds are we'll have most of our mishaps there. Close to home we get more comfortable and perhaps let our guard down (and the other guy does the same thing); you've heard that "familiarity breeds contempt?" Better yet, familiarity breeds inattention. We don't often consider that serious or fatal injuries can occur in low speed collisions.

I have a challenge for you. While it is important for you to be alert and aware, it isn't an easy task. The next time you drive, try concentrating solely on the driving task. Think of nothing else. Then see how far you get before your mind wanders. Many drivers won't even get out of the parking lot! Seasoned drivers don't HAVE to think about driving much. It's something we do automatically, and our minds are free to wander. And our minds WANT to wander. Have you ever driven somewhere and been so lost in thought that you couldn't remember anything about the trip itself? Is this a problem?

Is this a curable problem? Paying attention can become a habit, but you have to work at it. Make conscious, persistent choices NOT to eat while driving, or whatever you do that takes your attention off where your moving vehicle is pointed. Connect your mind to your eyes and work at consciously analyzing what you see while you drive. We call this "situational awareness." Driving is the most dangerous thing most of us ever do. It deserves your full attention. Mastery of this one habit can almost make you bullet-proof. Not quite, but almost.

Rule 2: Don't Trust Nobody!

We have met the enemy and he is us. You can never rely on what the other driver will do. Think back to all the mistakes you've made while driving over the years. Think ahead to the ones you know you will make in the future. All the other drivers are just like us! Don't trust them! While you are driving, keep a wary eye on the other guy and leave yourself plenty of room. Anticipate the mistakes he might make and be ready for them. Eventually, he will! Because he's just like us! When you are driving on "autopilot," you have turned control of your vehicle over to those other drivers - you are at their mercy. Their fate is your fate.

If you are too trusting, you are relying on that other driver for your safety. Is he worthy of that trust? Every few seconds, some drivers in this country find out this is a poor bet. Maybe some of those other drivers are returning from a beer festival! Maybe they just lost a job, or worse, a loved one. The other driver might be an 11-year-old who found Dad's keys. Approach driving with the idea that every other driver is an unpredictable menace and out to get you. Most collisions occur when the "other guy" does something we don't expect, or when we do something they don't expect.

If you accept that everyone makes driving errors, the next step is to drive with a wary attitude. Be careful of approaching red lights, because you know a light by itself never stopped anyone. Watch out for folks getting ready to pull out from parking beside the road. Look for gaps in lines of traffic which might be the result of someone pausing to let another vehicle cross in front of them. (I've personally witnessed three or four collisions in the past ten years that happened just this way). There are others: failure to signal a lane change or turn, or tailgating someone when they are poking along because they need to make a turn-a turn they suddenly WILL make when they see it at the last second. You can think of dozens of others. Be alert to the possibilities and have a strategy in mind for dealing with them.

Source: Squidoo.com

Autopartswarehouse.com presents: Auto Detailing 101

What Is Auto Detailing?

Auto detailing is the practice of performing an extremely thorough cleaning, polishing and waxing of an automobile, both inside and out, to produce a show-quality level of detail. It can be practiced for personal satisfaction, and it is also performed to prepare a car for a Concours d'Elegance (often shortened to just Concours), a car show that features the appearance of cars. Elements of exterior detailing include claying, polishing, and waxing. Interior detailing involves the cleaning of the interior of a vehicle using vacuums, liquid cleaners, and brushes. Engine detailing involves cleaning the engine bay area of dirt and grease by using degreasers and all-purpose cleaners.

What is Detailing?

While there are no specific guidelines for what actually makes up a 'detail,' it is typically considered more extensive than washing and drying a car, and will often involve many steps. Main goals are typically beautification and protection, but can also touch other areas such as minor paint repair and surface restoration, as well as thoroughly cleaning areas which are normally ignored such as the engine and underchassis, wheels, tires, and trim.

The steps of a basic exterior detail of the paint surface consist of, in this order, wash, dry, clay bar, polish, glaze, sealant, wax. Application of a glaze is optional, as is application of both a sealant and wax.

A variety of shampoos, cleaners, degreasers, protectants, lubricants, polishes, clay bars, and waxes have developed over time to suit various demands of consumers and professionals.

Clay bar

Clay is a mixture of clay base and various mild abrasives that is used to remove paint contamination. Spray wax, window cleaner or water can work as a clay lubricant. Road grime, tar, bugs, rust, tree sap and even paint overspray can be removed with a clay bar.Claying does not remove the clear coat of the paint but can cause marring or dullness if used incorrectly. It takes a few passes of clay to feel the difference on the surface of the paint. Claying does not replace polishing. It is simply a process that should be used before polishing compound is used. Claying should be used once or twice a year depending on the year of the car or truck.

Purpose of Polishing

The purpose of polishing is to remove oxidation, swirls, scratches, water deposits, and other imperfections from the paint. In contrast to a clay bar, which removes contamination, polishes remove surface imperfections. Polishing generally is the single most time consuming step in an exterior detail.

Polishes typically are classified in two categories, a chemical polish or abrasive polish. A chemical polish, sometimes called a prewax cleaner, cleans the surface and removes oxidation. An abrasive polish removes a small portion of the clearcoat or the base paint itself on single stage paint. Abrasive polishes are classified based on how abrasive they are. The abrasive polish with the most abrasion typically is called a Rubbing Compound. A Rubbing Compound will remove heavier scratches and swirls as well as oxidation. It can be compared to a very fine sandpaper. The abrasive polish with the least abrasion typically is called a finishing polish. A finishing polish is used to remove light oxidation and fine scratches and swirls. It is also used to remove the haze resulting from application of a more abrasive polish. Abrasive polishes work best when applied with a machine rotary buffer or machine random orbital buffer. Different pads are used on the buffer depending on the abrasion level of the polish.

An "All in One" product typically combines a chemical polish and sealant to be applied in one step. A "buff and wax" contains a high level of cleaner and U.V. protectant or carnuba, producing a polish and a protect effect. Unlike a chemical polish or abrasive polish, a glaze does not clean or abrade the paint. A glaze typically contains oils and kaolin to fill and mask minor imperfections remaining after polishing, and to enhance the brilliance of the finish. If a glaze is applied, it is used after use of a chemical polish or abrasive polish or All in One product but before application of a sealant or wax.

Purpose of Sealants and Waxing

Synthetic sealants are polymer based and provide more durability than even the best carnauba wax. They are liquid in form and apply very much like a liquid wax. It is suggested that most sealants cure for 12 to 24 hours before layering additional coats on the paint or applying wax over the sealant. Curing involves the cross-linking of polymer strands. When cross-linking is completed, the product has "cured." Some sealants contain an accelerator, or are sold with a separate accelerator that is mixed with the sealant before use, which speeds up the cross-linking (curing) process. For best results, the surface of the vehicle should be properly prepared for a sealant, which involves cleaning and polishing the paint prior to application. Applying a sealant over a wax or surface contamination may inhibit the bonding of the product to the paint. Once you top a sealant with a wax you will not be able to apply additional layers of the sealant without first cleaning the paint and removing all the wax.

Waxing further enhances the gloss and depth of the paint, and provides even more but shorter lasting protection. Wax comes in many forms such as cream, paste, and liquid. Most waxes contain carnauba which contains a high amount of fatty acids. This fatty acid creates a solid layer between the paint and the outside world which protects it, and gives it a glossy finish. Synthetic waxes commonly mix low amounts of cleaners with high amounts of U.V. inhibitors to create the same protective layer that carnauba does. Synthetic wax creates a high gloss while carnauba waxes give a warm and wet looking finish.

Source: Wikipedia

Autopartswarehouse.com presents: Top 5 Tips - DIY Car Maintenance

Good car maintenance is a prerequisite for a smooth running and a longer life of our prized possessions. While there indeed are automobile service stations to take care of them when they fall sick, you at your end can do a lot for your car's upkeep and stitch it in time so as to save nine. This post offers 5 essential tips you can implement yourself, and which should pretty much ensure your car's good health.

1. Check Engine Oil

Critical to an automobile's lubrication system, the engine oil lubricates a car's moving parts, cleans and inhibits corrosion, and also cools the engine by carrying heat away from the parts.

To check engine oil, Turn off the car's ignition. Locate the dipstick, in case you don't know where it is take the help of the owner's manual and then remove the dipstick. Most dipstick carry the label "engine oil."

Wipe off any excess oil and then check dip it another time to see if it reaches the "Full" mark or not. If not then you need to fill up to reach the "Full" mark.

Now, observe the color of the engine oil. A black an opaque appearance means time for a change. Dark brown but somewhat transparent means you'd need to change it after some time. A clear appearance means it's OK, but be wary if it appears to be whitish, as that might indicate a need for a professional check up.

To replace engine oil, choose the product that's already inside your car. Pour in slowly allowing it time to settle down. After you're done, replace the dipstick properly.

2. Check Automatic Transmission Fluid

To run a check for automatic transmission fluid change the transmission lever's position to Park of 'P' position. Locate the transmission dipstick, in case you don't know where it is take the help of the owner's manual and then remove the transmission dipstick. Wipe it and dip it again to check the levels.

Also look at the appearance of the fluid. A black fluid with a burnt smell is a sign that it needs a quick change. If its brown in color, then there's still some life in it. In comparison a newly replaced fluid is red in color.

Aside from the appearance, refer to the owner's manual as well. As some manufacturers specify the number of miles you can drive before a refill is needed.

3. Check Engine Coolant

This is a simple procedure. To perform the check simply locate the coolant overflow tank and note the levels.

Low coolant level will cause the engine to overheat, which may cause serious damage to the engine. If the levels are between "LOW" and "FULL" markings, then it's OK. If it's below the "LOW" marking, then naturally a replacement is needed.

4. Check CV Joint Boots

A majority of modern day automobiles are front wheel drive, wherein a CV joint's job is to help in transmitting power to the wheels.

To check the CV joint for breakage or damage, you'd need to inspect the internal sides of the wheel. To make it easier for you, first turn the wheel to one side as much as it can turn. Now, look at the inside to inspect the front wheel arch. If your inspection reveals oil or greasing on the boot, it means that it's broken. If it dry then there's nothing to worry about. If it's broken, then treat it as an emergency and arrange for a replacement.

5. Check Tire Pressure

Taking good care of wheels & tires is simple, very basic and very important. The point is to check air pressure without fail at least once a month. It might be a good idea if you purchased a tire pressure gauge, so that you can check the pressure any time by yourself. Another key consideration is to ensure the ideal tire pressure (as has been prescribed by the car manufacturer).

In addition to the basic checks outlined above, don't postpone going to a professional mechanic if you sense trouble. Further, regular checkups too would ensure that an impending bigger trouble is forestalled before it blows out of proportion.