Paul Walker's death highlights the dangers of aging tires. Even with low miles, old tires present a safety risk. Consumer Reports tells you how to check your tires.
Monday, March 31, 2014
The Hidden Dangers of Old Tires | Consumer Reports
Paul Walker's death highlights the dangers of aging tires. Even with low miles, old tires present a safety risk. Consumer Reports tells you how to check your tires.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Discovering Simplicity - Volvo Cars
More power from less fuel. That's the Swedish thinking behind our Drive-E powertrains. Swedish thinking is also behind the Treehotel, where inspiration is drawn from nature, and then integrated within it.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Why Choose a Good Mechanic to Repair Your Car?
It is important to choose the best doctor for treatment or to
maintain a sound health. Believe it or not, same is the case with the
cars. You need to have the best mechanic to repair your car to keep it
running for a long period of time.
Sometimes people go to a road side or non-licensed mechanic to fix their car. The problem with road side mechanics is that they overcharge you. Another problem is that he neither gives you a printed receipt of the charges nor the warranty of his work. You cannot hold him responsible if your car shows any problem or issues.
You must know that a certified licensed mechanic who has a registered auto repair shop will provide you printed receipt, quotation and guarantee of satisfaction. But, a technician who is not registered is likely to make your car worse than before. Since he does not give receipt or address, chances are high that you will lose your money and get a completely ruined car. Here are few reasons for selecting a good mechanic to repair your car.
A good mechanic will ask your permission before making any replacement or modification in your car.
A certified and licensed mechanic has a repair shop equipped with latest tools that are necessary to maintain modern cars. Besides this, a lot technical information and advanced knowledge is required about these new cars to ensure that they stay in good shape for a long time. You cannot expect a road side mechanic to know all these.
A mechanic needs to pass few exams before being certified. He needs to decide his area of specialization, give an exam and earn a certificate. The area of specialization includes manual drive train and axles, engine repair, suspension and steering, automotive trans/transaxle, brakes, electrical /electronic systems, engine performance and heating and air conditioning and many more. A certified technician not only needs to pass the exam but also should have two years of experience in the field. Unlike a road side mechanic, they are experts in their field of specialization and are capable enough to provide professional service.
The good thing is that finding a certified technician is not difficult. You can take the help of your friends or family members who recently consulted a mechanic to repair their car. You can easily avoid being a victim of inexperience and non-licensed mechanics.
Sometimes people go to a road side or non-licensed mechanic to fix their car. The problem with road side mechanics is that they overcharge you. Another problem is that he neither gives you a printed receipt of the charges nor the warranty of his work. You cannot hold him responsible if your car shows any problem or issues.
You must know that a certified licensed mechanic who has a registered auto repair shop will provide you printed receipt, quotation and guarantee of satisfaction. But, a technician who is not registered is likely to make your car worse than before. Since he does not give receipt or address, chances are high that you will lose your money and get a completely ruined car. Here are few reasons for selecting a good mechanic to repair your car.
A good mechanic will ask your permission before making any replacement or modification in your car.
A certified and licensed mechanic has a repair shop equipped with latest tools that are necessary to maintain modern cars. Besides this, a lot technical information and advanced knowledge is required about these new cars to ensure that they stay in good shape for a long time. You cannot expect a road side mechanic to know all these.
A mechanic needs to pass few exams before being certified. He needs to decide his area of specialization, give an exam and earn a certificate. The area of specialization includes manual drive train and axles, engine repair, suspension and steering, automotive trans/transaxle, brakes, electrical /electronic systems, engine performance and heating and air conditioning and many more. A certified technician not only needs to pass the exam but also should have two years of experience in the field. Unlike a road side mechanic, they are experts in their field of specialization and are capable enough to provide professional service.
The good thing is that finding a certified technician is not difficult. You can take the help of your friends or family members who recently consulted a mechanic to repair their car. You can easily avoid being a victim of inexperience and non-licensed mechanics.
Advance Auto Repair offers the best auto repair service in Orlando, Florida. Schedule your maintenance now!
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Jaguar XFR-S Sportbrake Challenges Team Sky cyclist: "Need a Lift?"
Jaguar XFR-S Sportbrake takes on a Team Sky cyclist amid the stunning scenery of Sa Calobra in Mallorca, Spain. Who will be triumphant?
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Top Ten Vehicle Myths Debunked!
10 VEHICLE MYTHS YOU MAY NOT REALIZE:
Myth 1: To maintain my warranty I can only have my car serviced at a dealership. Service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in automotive service. Keep all receipts as proof of completion, and have the service provider fill out the Maintenance Record.
Myth 2: Paint chips and nicks don't affect my warranty.
To keep your new vehicle paint and corrosion warranty valid, have dents, scratches and collision damaged panels inspected and repaired. New cars have a minimum five-year rust perforation warranty. Unprotected panels that cause rust will not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
Myth 3: I can wash my vehicle with mild dish soap.
More than one-third of car owners use damaging non-automotive products when washing their cars-products that could contain harmful detergents, abrasives or additives.
Myth 4: Vehicle technology today is so advanced I don't need to worry about emissions. Keep your vehicle well maintained. A poorly maintained engine can use up to 50% more fuel and produce 50% more CO2 than one that runs properly.
Myth 5: Warm weather means less car worries. Cooling system neglect is cited as a principal reason for mechanical failure of a vehicle. In addition to the danger and inconvenience of a breakdown, the damage to the engine and transmission can add up to thousands of dollars. Discovering a leaking radiator, hose connection, a sticking thermostat or other cooling system component that's on "borrowed time" can save the life of your engine.
Myth 6: I get my vehicle serviced twice/year, so I don't need a pre-trip vehicle inspection. Vehicles need to be properly maintained year round. But a pre-vacation inspection performed by a qualified automotive technician can avoid costly repairs and inconvenience.
Myth 7: The only fluids I need to worry about are oil and gas.
Most people neglect the other fluids in their vehicle, these include:
•Brake
•Coolant /Anti-Freeze
•Power Steering
•Transmission
•Washer fluid
Myth 8: The service schedule is just a way for service people to make money.
Your vehicle's service schedule was designed by automotive engineers, not service technicians. Maintaining your car according to the schedules given in your owner's manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment.
Myth 9: I do not drive under "severe" conditions.
Most drive under "severe" conditions, but believe they drive under "normal" conditions. Severe conditions include:
• Cold weather.
• Extensive idling or stop-and-go driving.
• Driving less than 8 KM's per trip, or in freezing temperatures driving less than 16 km per trip.
• Driving in extremely hot (over 32 C) conditions.
• Trailer towing, driving with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.
• Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.
Myth 10: If it's not broke, don't fix it or No news is good news.
Vehicles need to be serviced even when the "Check Engine Light" isn't on. You should be following the Maintenance Schedule as outlined in your vehicle owner's manual.
Bonus Myth #11: A dirty air filter will reduce fuel economy. Truth is, on any modern car, the air flow sensor measures the amount of air going into the engine, and will deliver the exact amount of fuel required for the air and fuel ratio to be balanced. This has been true for over 30 years, but most mechanics will not admit it.
Myth 1: To maintain my warranty I can only have my car serviced at a dealership. Service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in automotive service. Keep all receipts as proof of completion, and have the service provider fill out the Maintenance Record.
Myth 2: Paint chips and nicks don't affect my warranty.
To keep your new vehicle paint and corrosion warranty valid, have dents, scratches and collision damaged panels inspected and repaired. New cars have a minimum five-year rust perforation warranty. Unprotected panels that cause rust will not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
Myth 3: I can wash my vehicle with mild dish soap.
More than one-third of car owners use damaging non-automotive products when washing their cars-products that could contain harmful detergents, abrasives or additives.
Myth 4: Vehicle technology today is so advanced I don't need to worry about emissions. Keep your vehicle well maintained. A poorly maintained engine can use up to 50% more fuel and produce 50% more CO2 than one that runs properly.
Myth 5: Warm weather means less car worries. Cooling system neglect is cited as a principal reason for mechanical failure of a vehicle. In addition to the danger and inconvenience of a breakdown, the damage to the engine and transmission can add up to thousands of dollars. Discovering a leaking radiator, hose connection, a sticking thermostat or other cooling system component that's on "borrowed time" can save the life of your engine.
Myth 6: I get my vehicle serviced twice/year, so I don't need a pre-trip vehicle inspection. Vehicles need to be properly maintained year round. But a pre-vacation inspection performed by a qualified automotive technician can avoid costly repairs and inconvenience.
Myth 7: The only fluids I need to worry about are oil and gas.
Most people neglect the other fluids in their vehicle, these include:
•Brake
•Coolant /Anti-Freeze
•Power Steering
•Transmission
•Washer fluid
Myth 8: The service schedule is just a way for service people to make money.
Your vehicle's service schedule was designed by automotive engineers, not service technicians. Maintaining your car according to the schedules given in your owner's manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment.
Myth 9: I do not drive under "severe" conditions.
Most drive under "severe" conditions, but believe they drive under "normal" conditions. Severe conditions include:
• Cold weather.
• Extensive idling or stop-and-go driving.
• Driving less than 8 KM's per trip, or in freezing temperatures driving less than 16 km per trip.
• Driving in extremely hot (over 32 C) conditions.
• Trailer towing, driving with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.
• Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.
Myth 10: If it's not broke, don't fix it or No news is good news.
Vehicles need to be serviced even when the "Check Engine Light" isn't on. You should be following the Maintenance Schedule as outlined in your vehicle owner's manual.
Bonus Myth #11: A dirty air filter will reduce fuel economy. Truth is, on any modern car, the air flow sensor measures the amount of air going into the engine, and will deliver the exact amount of fuel required for the air and fuel ratio to be balanced. This has been true for over 30 years, but most mechanics will not admit it.
Scott Waddle is an auto mechanic and the owner of Precision Auto Services located at #101 - 22575 Fraser Highway in Langley, BC. At Precision Auto you can be sure that your car is in the hands of qualified mechanics. Call 604-530-9394 to schedule a consultation. http://www.precisionautoservice.com
Sunday, March 16, 2014
BMW Accelerated History—Motorsport: a Lap Through Time
Take a lap through time with BMW Accelerated History. Witness 10 decades of winning BMW Motorsport performance from the first flag through the latest finish.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Eight Ways Bad Belts Break Engines
When a high-pitched squeal or whine comes from the engine
compartment of a car, one very frequent reason is a belt failure or
pending failure. Take the car to a qualified mechanic as soon as
possible for diagnostics and belt replacement. Broken belts cause damage
to many areas of a car and this damage is far more expensive to fix
than the cost to replace a worn-down belt.
Knowing this, you will now know more ways to prevent a all types of them breaking and potentially breaking your engine. You will also know some warning signs a belt going bad.
- Engine and accessory belts power many engine parts, including the power steering, air conditioner compressor, alternator, power steering and more. A broken belt, especially on that affects a critical system, often leaves the car dead until repaired.
- Think about how long ago the car's timing belt was changed. If it was over 100,000 miles ago, then have a good mechanic inspect the vehicle and decide if belts need to be changed.
- They are made over rubber with small teeth that grip the wheels it operates. As the rubber wears down, it begins to slip. The wheel turning it still moves, but the belt slips or does not move at all. This causes the loud squeal.
- The engine belt squeal is a warning sound that it is going bad. It still works, but it will deteriorate and fail quickly due to the excess friction and heat generated by the slipping.
- Engine belts that become too worn eventually snap, leaving drivers stranded. Quick fixes, like lubricants, are available. However, a temporary solution like conditioner is no substitute for qualified maintenance.
- Different vehicles use different belt systems. Some cars have a different one for each system while others have a serpentine type that runs multiple systems. The air conditioner belt is usually a separate one, so squeals might only be heard when the AC is engaged.
- When mechanics replace or tighten engine belts, they should care for every one in the car. Condition and wear are not the only causes of their problems. Often it may just be a matter of tightening them. Mechanics may change every one except the timing belt during a regular tune-up.
- During a tune-up, many items including engine belts and spark plugs are changed. Drivers who notice engine squeals should check the time since their last tune-up. It may be time for another one.
Knowing this, you will now know more ways to prevent a all types of them breaking and potentially breaking your engine. You will also know some warning signs a belt going bad.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Monday, March 10, 2014
Mercedes-Benz TV: Premieres at the Geneva Motor Show 2014
S 500 4MATIC: Fuel consumption combined: 9.9-9.4 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 232-219 g/km.
V-Class: Fuel consumption combined: 6.1-5.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 159-149 g/km.*
The world-premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupé and a look at the V-Class at Geneva Motor Show 2014 with Mercedes-Benz Reporter Yasmine Blair.
Product may vary after press date on 07.03.2014.
Friday, March 7, 2014
New Jaguar XE: Revealing the Latest Sports Sedan From Jaguar
Jaguar has revealed the latest model addition to our range at the Geneva Motor Show 2014.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Many Drivers. One Oil. Mobil 1 Testimonials at SEMA
Hear from drivers at the 2013 SEMA Show about why they choose Mobil 1 as the lifeblood to their engines.
Saturday, March 1, 2014
BMW i8 In Detail. Plug-In Hybrid.
With this BMW TV series you can get a closer look at the BMW i8. This time you can get more information about the plug-in hybrid.
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