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?