2005 Honda Insight: America's First Hybrid and Fuel Efficient Vehicle with Top quality Honda Parts from Parts Train

by: Jenny McLane

Since it was introduced back in 2002, Honda Insight's 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine and Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) motor-generator have been modified, and the CVT model's final drive ratio is considerably lower, at 5.69:1 compared to 3.21 for the manual, to take advantage of the CVT's wider-spread "gear'' ratios. Powered by Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA™) system that pairs a 3-cylinder VTEC™-E engine with an electric motor, the Insight comes fully loaded with dual front airbags (SRS), power windows, mirrors and door locks, a remote entry system, AM/FM stereo cassette, alloy wheels and much more. Like a turbocharger, the IMA motor-generator is called to action when extra power is needed for acceleration and hill climbing, and feels like a low-pressure turbo. Unlike at turbo, the motor becomes a generator when braking or coasting, which recharges the nickel metal-hydride battery pack The Honda Insight gains efficiency not only by its drivetrain but by light weight and clean aerodynamics. Curb weight is less than 2,000 lbs even with the CVT and air conditioning (standard on the CVT model, optional with the standard transmission). Like other hybrids, the Insight's engine stops when the car is stopped at a light or in traffic, contributing greatly to fuel economy. The Insight achieves EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings of 60/66 (manual) and 57/56 (CVT) mpg, respectively. The 2005 2006 Honda Insight runs a 1.0-liter, I3, 67-horsepower, hybrid engine whose mileage specs are 61-mpg in the city and 68-mpg on the highway. Putting power to the wheels, Honda links a 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive as standard equipment. The Hatchback with A/C and CVT is equipped with a standard 1.0-liter, I3, 65-horsepower, hybrid engine whose fuel-efficient configuration achieves 57-mpg in the city and 56-mpg on the highway. A variable speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. Standard features include alloy Wheels, AM/FM Radio, Anti-Lock Brakes, Anti-Theft Vehicle, Cassette, Driver Air Bag, Keyless Entry/Unlock, Passenger Air Bag, Rear Defogger, Power Locks, Power Mirrors, Power Steering, Power Windows, Tachometer. The Honda Insight has safety-cage construction with front and rear crumple zones, side-impact protection, dual airbags and antilock brakes. You can now shop for discount car parts and accessories from Parts Train's online performance or OEM Replacement auto parts catalog at http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/HONDA . In stock are thousands of Honda parts for all enthusiasts. Find OEM Honda auto parts, new aftermarket parts, Honda performance parts, and more. From engine and radiator parts to filters, wipers, auto body parts and trim and a whole lot more, you will find everything to repair and maintain your Honda. About the author: Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today. http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/HONDA

2005 Ford Mercury Montego: Best Equipped With Superior Aftermarket Parts at Partstrain

by: Jenny McLane

The Mercury Montego is the first Mercury car in over a decade offering all-wheel drive. Montego comes in Luxury and Premier models with a 203-hp 3.0-liter V6. Both offer front-wheel drive with 6-speed automatic transmission or AWD with a continuously variable automatic transmission. The CVT provides variable drive ratios vs. the conventional automatic's fixed-ratio gears. Both transmissions are new to Ford Motor Company. It has signature waterfall grille, strategic use of contrasting metallic surfaces like satin aluminum and chrome, distinctive taillight bezels. The Montego's Volvo-inspired platform has a stable platform, with fully independent suspension for a quiet ride and responsive handling. With Duratec 30 V-6 engine refined for a smoother, quieter operation, the available all-wheel-drive system is packaged with a new continuously variable transmission. Front-wheel-drive vehicles use a premium six-speed automatic transmission The 3.0-litre, 4-valve-per-cylinder, dual overhead cam, Duratec V-6, adequately powers the Montego. This high-tech, dependable power unit generates 203 horsepower and 207 lb.ft. of torque. All Montegos have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and traction control, but no antiskid system is available, 17-inch seven-spoke wheels, automatic HID headlamps, LED taillamps, body-color moldings, fog lamps, remote keyless entry with keypad and interval wipers. Other features include folding heated power exterior mirrors, power windows and door locks, driver and front passenger air bags, passive anti-theft system, dual-zone electronic climate control, front and rear floor mats, six-way power driver's seat, fold-flat front passenger seat, seatback map pockets, split-fold rear seat, fold-down rear armrest with cupholders, auto-dimming rearview mirror, two 12-volt powerpoints, AM/FM stereo with single CD player and tilt steering wheel with remote audio controls. An optional Safety Package bundles front torso side airbags with head-protecting curtain side airbags designed to deploy in rollovers as well as in side impacts. Partstrain manufactures and sells aftermarket performance products and accessories for Ford vehicles. Parts Train strives to be the ultimate source for performance products and accessories for most GM vehicles. Parts Train's product line-up for the Ford Mercury Montego includes Engine system, Electrical system, Header, Exhaust, Hoods, Hubcaps, multiple Body Kit designs, Suspension, Condensers, Bumpers, Radiator Support, Spoiler, Catalytic Converter, and a variety of additional upgrades that compliment the car. Simply browse at http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/FORD whether you are searching for replacement Ford parts, high quality accessories, or Ford body panels, Parts Train's friendly customer service staff will quickly identify parts you require. About the author: Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today. http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/FORD

2005 Ford Five Hundred Complemented with Top Notch Parts for Parts Train

by: Jenny McLane

The Five Hundred will become Ford's flagship sedan. It has higher seating, increased interior space, and optional all-wheel drive. The Five Hundred has considerably more interior space than the full-size Crown Victoria, even though it's only 25 centimeters shorter "While the industry tries to make car-based crossovers, the Ford Five Hundred stands alone as the first crossover-based car" said Ford vice president Phil Martens. It's a 4-door sedan with SUV and crossover advantages, including cargo capability, versatility, "command" seating and available all-wheel drive. The Five Hundred's 3.0-litre Duratec V6 engine makes 200 horsepower while two transmissions will be offered: a six-speed automatic and a CVT (continuously variable transmission). The front seat H (hip) point is four inches higher than that in a typical midsize sedan, and the rear seats are higher still. Legroom is best-in-class front and rear, while the trunk is biggest in class. An appealing truck/SUV attribute of the Ford 500 is high seating that helps drivers see over-or at least eye-to-eye with-other vehicles for a feeling of security. Standard features include 17-inch wheels (upgraded to 18-in. on SEL and Limited), entry keypad and one-touch "up" front power windows. Options include AWD, leather seating with power adjustments (including power recliner for the driver), fold-flat front passenger seat, reverse parking assist and a moon roof, but not yet a navigation system. The Five Hundred is a front-wheel-drive car with available all-wheel drive. It uses an electronically controlled, electro-hydraulic Haldex limited-slip viscous coupling just ahead of the rear differential to transfer torque to the rear wheels whenever the fronts begin to slip. Electronic controls gather information from the anti-lock brakes and other sensors to enable it to react within 50 milliseconds, much faster than competitive viscous devices. Ford 500 Safety feature boasts structural advances such as "Space Architecture" cross-car beams, which won four top five-star safety ratings from the National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), including for front and side impacts. It was the only 2005 model tested to win top marks for those two crash tests without the optional side air bags. Only a few car parts manufacturers can match the quality that Parts Train has for Ford parts and the company boasts of an impressive array of Ford replacement and Ford car parts. Only the finest in the industry at extremely low prices that beats the automotive industry standard is the company's commitment to its customers. Partstrain has a certified secured online store http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/FORD that ships your order right at your doorstep in the soonest possible time. Like Ford the car manufacturer whose foremost concern is fulfilling the needs of its customers worldwide, Partstrain is strongly committed to the utmost satisfaction of its customer base. About the author: Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today. http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/FORD

2005 BMW M5 Performance and Luxury at Its best at Partstrain

by: Jenny McLane

The all-new fourth generation M5 pushes that envelope even further with the first V10 engine to power a production sedan. The new V10 produces 507 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque by European measure. This new engine is mated to a seven-speed SMG transmission. With this new powertrain, the M5 offers the best power-to-weight ratio in its class. This new engine offers 100 horsepower per liter of displacement, pure racecar territory. The 90o V10 is designed for maximum stiffness and minimum vibration. The new V10 features double-VANOS variable valve timing. Each cylinder has its own electronically controlled throttle butterfly. The new MS S65 engine management system uses the most powerful processors currently approved for use in automobiles. The new BMW M5 features gear changes that are 20 percent faster with a seven-speed SMG gearbox. Six of these programs can be selected in the sequential manual gearbox mode (S mode). These programs adjust shifting speed and style because, in the S mode, the driver does all the shifting. In the Drive (D mode) the transmission shifts automatically, depending on which of the five programs is selected. An impressive drive comfort, The Dynamic Stability Control system in the M5 has been designed to suit its performance. Of course, the DSC can be deactivated at the push of a button. The M5's DSC also offers the choice of two driving dynamics programs. One allows DSC to function the way it always has. At the touch of a button, the M Dynamic Mode is engaged which lets DSC facilitate more spirited driving. The new M5 has more aerodynamic exterior mirrors, four tailpipes and exclusive wheels. Similar to the latest M3, the M5 features exclusive gills incorporated into the front fenders. The new BMW M5 is equipped with generously sized high performance brakes with perforated compound brake discs. The aluminum twin-piston brake calipers have been designed for minimum unsprung weight and maximum stiffness. Parts and accessories for the BMW are available at Parts train. All you have to do is go to http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/BMW and choose which ones are compatible for your needs. The advantage of using BMW parts and accessories is that these are especially designed to work well with all BMW cars and therefore you have ensured performance and maximized workability out of these parts and accessories. Parts train also offers car parts, which are continuously being improved upon to ensure quality service and performance. About the author: Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

18 Tips for Saving Money on Gasoline

by: Fisher Swanson

Gas prices are on the rise again! Here are some tips to help you conserve gas and save money as we approach summer gas prices. 1. Keep your car tuned up. Cars in poor running condition use more gasoline. 2. Plan trips well to avoid unnecessary driving. 3. When you run your air conditioner you get much worse gas mileage. Use your air conditioner sparingly. If you have a lower setting, use it. Turn it on until the car gets cool, then turn it off and let the fan circulate the cool air. Never run your air conditioner with your windows open! 4. Keep your windows closed when traveling at high speeds. Open windows cause additional drag and lower your gas mileage. At high speeds, an open window can use more gas than many air conditioners (especially if they are on a low setting). 5. Check your tire pressure. Over-inflated tires can actually reduce your fuel efficiency, so don't overfill. 6. If at all possible, change your work start time to avoid gridlock. Stop and go traffic hurts your gas mileage. 7. Take unneeded items out of the car. You don't need to carry snow chains around with you in the summertime. Just make sure to put them back in when winter comes around. 8. Try not to idle your engine for long periods of time. If you are stuck in traffic and you don't think you are going to go anywhere in the next five minutes, you may want to turn your car off. 9. You no longer need to warm your car up for long periods of time, especially new cars. New cars are made to run when cold. 10. Don't travel at fast speeds in low gears unless you need the compression to slow down. 11. Try to drive the speed limit. 12. Try to accelerate slowly when leaving the stop light. It's not a competition with the driver in the lane next to you. The fastest person through the intersection just gets to spend more on gas. 13. No need to buy the highest priced gasoline. Most cars are built to run on regular unleaded. Check you owners manual or consult a mechanic. I have had many tell me that the more expensive gas is a waste of money. 14. Revving the engine needlessly wastes gas. There is no need to rev before you turn your vehicle off. 15. If at all possible, try to arrange car pools with co-workers to share the cost of commuting to work. 16. Walk, bike or run to your intended location whenever possible. 17. When the price is sky high, don't fill up. Wait for the price to go down before you fill up your tank. Filling up your tank when the price is peaking lets gas companies know that you are willing to pay ridiculous prices for gasoline. 18. And last, the biggest and most important step towards saving money on gas is always try to purchase vehicles that get good gas mileage. The difference between 20 miles-per-gallon and 40 miles-per-gallon is huge. About the author: Fisher Swanson is a regular contributer to The ThriftyFun.com News. ThriftyFun publishes information about thrifty living. Send an email to thriftyfunnews-on@thriftyfun.com to subscribe to The ThriftyFun.com News. www.thriftyfun.com fisher@thriftyfun.com

18 Simple Ways To Save Money On Your Car

by: Jeff Slokum

The upkeep of your vehicle can be quite an expense - from initial purchase to insurance to maintenance. And sometimes we get the sinking feeling that every time we need a car repair, we’re going to get taken for a ride. (pardon the pun!) Actually there are some ways to make sure you don’t get a raw deal when dealing with a local body shop. After you get recommendations for honest mechanics, call around to check out the prices for certain jobs. It’s always smart to get a second opinion. How about some preventative medicine? Keep your gas tank filled. This will help you avoid the gas line freezing up in cold weather. Also, driving on “fumes” allows little pieces of dirt at the bottom of your gas tank to run through the fuel lines with the last drops of gas. This debris clogs up the fuel filter and can cause carburetor damage as well. Sometimes a problem with your car’s electrical system results from a simple blown fuse. Check to see if you have any blown fuses before investing in a tow truck!    Keep track of how much oil your car uses. A sudden change in oil consumption means you need to see a technician. Save your brakes by having your brake fluid changed every 30,000 miles. Check your tire pressure once a month. This simple maintenance check can add up savings at the gas pump! Stop and go traffic causes excess wear and tear on your vehicle. Go ahead and give your car a nice twenty minute ride at 55 mph on the highway every couple weeks if you “major” in short trips. There are other ways to save money on car expenses. Let’s look at the insurance payments. If you’ve budgeted for possible out-of-pocket expenses in case of a car accident, you might want to consider increasing your insurance deductible to $500. This will lower the cost of your insurance. Talk to your insurance agent. If your car is as old as the hills, you might want to drop collision coverage to save money. Car insurance companies offer a variety of discounts. Ask your agent if the company offers reductions for driver training courses, anti-lock brakes, car alarms, air bags, mature drivers, good students or maintaining a good driving record. Before you purchase from a dealer, ask about the dealer's return policy, get it in writing and read it carefully. Dealers are not required by law to give used car buyers a three-day right to cancel. Visit http://www.fueleconomy.gov to find cars that are fuel efficient. Each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.10 per gallon for gas. In most cases, using cruise control on the highway will save gas. Replacing a clogged air filter can improve your car's gas mileage by as much as 10 percent. This isn’t going to cost you an arm or leg either. Do your homework when buying a car from an auction. Many vehicles that have been damaged by floods and hurricanes are going on the market. These won’t last long – leaving you with a flood of bills. Be a little concerned if the carpet looks too new, and check carefully for signs of rust. Carfax.com shares info on inspecting a used car to make sure you get the best deal. If you use your car for business, keep track of miles traveled so that you can use this for a tax deduction. Get more info at irs.gov. When you consider all the ways you can save money on your current vehicle, you might be persuaded to put away the extra each month for a new car down the road! About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.car-alarm-guide.net

10 Ways To Lower Your Auto Insurance

by: Pete Lance

Nowadays, auto insurance is really expensive. A typical insurance policy can cost a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars a year. And the insurance rates you pay are hugely dependent on the insurance company or agent, your age, your car type, your driving record, and even the area you reside in! You should never go without auto insurance though, despite the costs. Almost all the states require you to protect yourself with a minimum amount of liability coverage. Naturally, the bare minimum is not adequate enough for the average car owner. And as you add in additional coverage for your car, you realize that you will be paying a fairly large sum annually. So, understanding auto insurance can actually help you to decide on a suitable insurance policy that won't vacuum clean your wallet! Here, we have gathered 10 of the best tips for lowering your auto insurance, by as much as 40 Always compare insurance policies. There are states which regulate auto insurance rates, but the insurance premiums can vary by hundreds of dollars for the exact same coverage. It is definitely worthwhile to shop around. The first thing you can do is to check with your state insurance department. They often provide information about the coverage you need, as well as sample rates from the biggest companies. You can also ask your friends or look up the yellow pages. Checking consumer guides and asking insurance agents can pay off as well. You can easily find out the price range for your insurance policy, as well as discover the lowest prices in town. However, you should not be shopping based on price along. The insurance company should provide good service at the best price. Excellent personal service is available as well, and they provide added conveniences, although they cost a fair bit more. Ask the company how you can lower your costs, and also check their financial ratings. The rule of thumb is always to get three price quotes from three different companies, and pick the one with the best value. It can also be a good idea to increase your deductibles. When you file a claim, the deductible is the amount you pay before the insurance company pays for the rest of the damage. A higher deductible on collision and comprehensive coverage can lead to a much lower premium. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $400 can reduce your premiums by up to 25àHowever, you must ensure that you have the financial resources to handle the largest deductible when the time comes. Remove certain types of coverage from your policy. Almost all the states require liability coverage for your car, but the rest of the coverage is probably dispensable. However, you do not want to be underinsured if you're in an accident, so it isn't advisable to remove all of your additional coverage. Optional coverage includes medical payments, uninsured motorist, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Drop collision and comprehensive coverage for older cars. If you drive an older car that's worth less than $2,000, it's probably more cost-effective to drop collision and comprehensive coverage since you'll probably pay more for the coverage than you'll collect for a claim. You can find out the worth of your car by asking auto dealers and banks. Make sure your credit report looks good. Car insurance companies often look at your credit history as there is a correlation between the risk to the company and your credit history. If you pay your bills on time and maintain a good credit history, you can enjoy lower insurance rates. Drive less. Insurance companies often offer low-mileage discounts to motorists who drive less than a predetermined number of miles each year. You can use public transportation more often, car-pool with friends, and take the train or a plane instead of driving to another state. And you'll save on more than your coverage as you'll need to spend less on gasoline (of which prices are incredibly high). Maintain a clean driving record. The company will give you a price break and you can save on your insurance policy after a specified period of a clean driving record. This means that you have no accidents, no serious driving violations etc, during this period of time. The simplest and surefire way to qualify for this discount is to drive carefully and defensively all the time. Choose a low-profile car. Insurance rates vary among difference models of vehicles. Generally, sports cars and high-performance cars tend to cost more to insure, mainly because they represent more risk of theft and the drivers are often the people who drive more recklessly. Newer cars will cost more to repair or replace than older ones, so naturally they can more to insure. Low-risk vehicles include station wagons and sedans. Ask about safety and security discounts. The insurance companies sometimes offer discounts on your insurance if your car is equipped with the following: anti-lock brakes, air bags, automatic seat belts, car alarms, tracking systems. These reduce the injury risk to you, as well as the chances of your car being vandalized or stolen. Finally, ask about other discounts. You may receive a discount if you buy more than one type of insurance from the same company or if you insure multiple cars under the same policy or company. You may also receive discounts for taking a defensive driving course, staying with the same company for a few years, being a driver over 50, good-student discounts, and being an AAA member. If you already have adequate health insurance, you can also eliminate paying for duplicate medical coverage, thus lowering your personal injury protection costs by a substantial amount. About the author: Pete Lance is the founder of http://www.USGasTracker.org,a premier company which helps the consumer save money on gasoline. Thousands of gas stations across the nation are tracked daily to guarantee the lowest prices on gasoline anywhere in the United States.Free daily email with locations and prices.

10 Tips For Saving Cash On Your Gas

by: Pete Lance

Gas prices are getting more and more ridiculous. And it’s going to keep increasing with no limit in sight! For the new car owners out there, do you know that a gallon of unleaded gasoline used to cost only $1.25? Therefore, it is becoming more and more important to maximize your money and save at the gas station. So here we have compiled 10 best tips to help you get the most out of your dollar! Tip 1: Shop Around This is the advice that you can apply anytime you buy anything. Always shop around. You can get a cheaper price for your favorite brand, and probably a yet cheaper price for a different brand. Tip 2: Use a Gasoline Credit Card Gasoline credit cards are great! They can save you 5 10ff your gasoline purchase.    Tip 3: Buy Gasoline When the Weather is Cool Gasoline is denser in cooler temperatures, such as in the morning or at night. Gas stations measure volume, not density, so you'll be getting more solid fuel than vapors, thus improving your overall gas mileage. Tip 4: Avoid Gas Stations That Just Refilled Their Tanks When underground tanks are refilled, particles at the bottom of the tank get stirred up, and when these particles get into your gasoline tank, they affect the fuel efficiency of your car. Tip 5: Don’t Top Off The gas pump needs time to draw out the full amount of gas, so When you purchase a bit of gas the station, you get short bursts of fuel that you'll probably pay extra for. You should refill your tank when you have less than half a talk left or when you find a price that is so low you cannot afford to miss it. Tip 6: Don’t Use High Octane Gas Most cars nowadays are built to run on regular unleaded gas. Purchasing higher octane gas is simply a waste of money. Octane measures how hard it is to ignite gas, not the quality of the gas, so getting higher octane gas will not improve fuel efficiency. You should only get these more expensive gases when your engine pings, knocks or rattles. Tip 7: Pump Your Own Gas It's cheaper to pump your own gas at the self-serve stations rather than using the full-serve pumps. Full-serve gasoline naturally costs more. Tip 8: Lessen the Use of Air-Conditioning This tip is simple enough. Air-conditioning uses electricity, and they can reduce fuel economy by up to 20àIt's advisable to use the air ventilation system instead. Tip 9: Plan Your Trip You can avoid unnecessary driving by planning your trip before hand, and of course that saves you money on gas consumption. Tip 10: Purchase Vehicles That Get Good Mileage This is probably one of the best tips anybody can give on saving money at the gas pump. It's always better to purchase vehicles that get good gas mileage. Check with your car dealer about cars that have better fuel economy. About the author: Pete Lance is the founder of www.USGasTracker.org, a premier company which helps the consumer save money on gasoline. Thousands of gas stations across the nation are tracked daily to guarantee the lowest prices on gasoline anywhere in the United States. Sign up for a free daily email with the lowest gas prices for your zip code. http://www.usgastracker.org

10 Tips For Getting The Best Deal On A New or Used Car

by: George Dodge

1. You should purchase your new car at or around Christmas time because with everybody buying their Christmas presents, not many of them are looking to buy a new car, and it forces dealerships to up their sales strategies. Salesmen are more willing to haggle down to your prices to close the deal. 2. You can also get a good deal from July to October because that is the time of year when dealerships are trying to get rid of their inventory to make way for the new models. 3. Purchasing a car online is becoming a great way to get a new car. Just wait for good rebates and incentives online and shop around. Print out your information from the best quotes and bring it to the dealer that you are most willing to work with. Bringing in lower quotes from another company might be your best bet in getting a good deal.   4. You should visit http://www.FightingChance.com if you are hoping to find new car prices, dealer incentives, and the best rebate offers. This site is the first place that you should go for great advice on buying a car. It's even more informative than the Kelley Blue book. This program for buying new cars can literally save you thousands of dollars. 5. A good place to start when going into a dealership is to bring a copy of your credit score with you. It can lower your interest rates on your car loan. Your car dealer should not know more about you than you do.   6. You can avoid a common scam that dealerships pull. You will often hear that your financing fell through and that you have to respond by paying more money on your loan. Don't believe it. It's another reason for you to get a copy of your credit score.   7. Another common scam by dealership salesmen is for them to tell you that they have found you a lower rate, but that they want you to re-sign your loan papers. Usually, that is a downright lie. Once they pull up your financing information, they have the upper hand if you don't know the details about your credit information. You can get a copy of your credit information online at http://www.equifax.com for about $10-$15. It's better to pay $15 now than thousands later. 8. Don't bring in a car for trade in if you still owe money on it. The dealership rarely pays the rest of the loan on time which will result in you having to pay a great deal of late fees to the bank.If you do decide to bring a car in that you owe money on, get it in writing from the dealership that they will pay the balance on the car within 10 days.   9. Sometimes a dealership may not have all of your options and must order the car directly from the dealership. If this happens they will often ask you to pay $500-$1000 for a deposit on the car. Try not to pay more than $500 and be sure to pay with a credit card because sometimes the dealership will tell you that there was a price increase on the vehicle and will want more money. If you pay with a credit card you have room to dispute the amount being taken from you. If you pay by check, you can just consider the money gone.   10. You should never buy a car when you are in desperate need for one because a dealer will see that and take advantage. You should never wait until an old car is dead before searching for a new one because you should give yourself time to shop around for one and get the best deal possible. Desperation often clouds your judgment. About the author: George Dodge is the webmaster for 1st Choice Auto Parts that has been expanding to include all things related to automobiles, including, parts, accessories, apparal, books, posters, insurance, loans, and articles to name but a few. Additional articles can be found at Automotive Articles

7 Things to Know when Renting a Car

by: John Mancini

In today's society, there are a number of reasons why people rent a car. Some of the top reasons are vacations, a car they own is in the shop and renting a nicer car for a special occasion. Whatever the reason that you are considering renting a car; there are some things that you should know first. 1- It is wise to shop around when looking for to rent a car. Always find at least three rental car companies to compare, although more will be better. Be sure to ask all the companies the same questions to get the most accurate answers. Most rental car companies will have websites online to find basic information, but it is best to call as local branches may have deals that are not advertised online. 2- When you call, be sure to ask about price, vehicle availability, as well as any specials that the branch has to offer. It is worth noting here, that many of these companies will have special arrangements with hotels, airlines or even warehouse stores. 3- You will want to ask about any special instructions that are required of you while renting the car, for example, filling up the gas tank or pick up and drop off times. Not adhering to these policies can result in fees. 4- Many companies that will rent a car to you will also be willing to either deliver the car to you or pick you up and take you to your rental. This service may require a fee, but can be worth asking about if you are flying to your destination. 5- The rental company may offer you insurance to purchase, however, your personal auto insurance may be all you need in the event of an accident with a rental car. Call your auto insurance agent and ask before paying extra at the rental counter. 6- There are a number of choices that are open to you when renting a car. Each class of car will vary in price and gas mileage; consider this when making your decision. While many companies may be willing to upgrade you, this is not always the case. It is wise to choose the car you want and hope for an upgrade than to reserve less of a car and be disappointed when an upgrade is not offered. 7- Have a credit or debit card handy to reserve the rental car with, most companies will only guarantee a car with this assurance. About the author: John Mancini has been writing about rental cars online and offline for a long time. Visit http://budgetrentalcars.infoor http://dirt-cheap-car-rentals.comto read more about matters like car rentals and enterprise rent a car.

5 Ways to Find Volvo Parts

by: John Mancini

You love your Volvo, right. However, its time to replace a part, it could something that is hidden like a fan belt or a prominent piece of the vehicle such as the emblem or steering wheel. It really doesn't matter what part needs replacing, what matters is the quality and price of the replacement part. You have worked hard for your Volvo and you deserve genuine Volvo replacement parts. These tips will explain the best way to locate these parts. 1- When you are looking for a replacement part, be it a replacement visor or a clutch master cylinder, the array of available sources can be hard to sift through. If price is not a concern for you, the dealership is one of the best choices around and even if price is an issue, the dealer is usually the best place to start. They will be able to give you an approximate price and may even be willing to give you some installation tips as well. 2- If the dealer is out of your price range, there are many more avenues to pursue. Looking online for a part is an obvious choice, and a good one. There is so much information available online that it is almost overwhelming. A good place to start searching for the Volvo part that you need is in forums, these can be in regards to the general subject of cars or specialized for Volvos in particular. The people that frequent these forums range in knowledge from experts to the people who just drove their new car off the lot. When you do find and expert, they are usually more than willing to help you in any way possible, after all, they are Volvo owners who love their cars too. 3- While online, be sure to look over the websites of car part dealers. These websites offer the chance to see pictures and read user reviews of the parts you are contemplating. Online websites may also offer free shipping or deeply discounted price as well as delivering to you door. 4- Swap meets and auctions can also be great places to find the Volvo parts you are looking for. You can find both swap meets and auctions on and offline, of course, there are advantages and disadvantages to both. The online swap meet and auction allows you to do business with people from all over the world, however, you are relying on pictures and some ones' word that they will deliver. On the other hand, local swap meets and auctions will have less people to deal with, but you can see and handle the products that they have available as well as take them home if you desire. 5- Above all, have fun during your search for the part that you need, even if it's only a fan belt. The item itself is not as important as the knowledge that you are giving your car what it deserves, the best parts you can afford. About the author: John Mancini has been writing about volvo parts online and offline for a long time. Visit http://www.volvocarparts.infoor http://volvopartscenter.comto read more about matters like volvo body parts and volvo oem parts.

5 Tips On Making Your Car More Fuel Efficient

by: Craig Rowe

With gas prices sky high most individuals who drive are interested in ways they can make their car more fuel efficient and save as much money as possible. While there are no fuel saving tips that will keep your car full of gas without filling up, there are some tips that really can help you save money on fuel over the long run. All of these tips focus on making your car more fuel efficient. Fuel Efficiency Tip #1 Drive When You Crank Up This might seem obvious, but as soon as you crank up your car you should drive off. However, many people crank up and leave the car idling for a while. Instead of this, when you crank up drive off and only keep your car running when it is absolutely necessary. Fuel Efficiency Tip #2 Don’t Ride the Break Many drivers hit the break more often than is necessary. Additionally there are quite a few drivers that slow down for a braking car when they could easily switch lanes. Not riding the break can increase your fuel efficiency by up to 30%, so this is a great tip you should follow. Fuel Efficiency Tip #3 Turn Off Your Car If you are going to be stopping for more than 10 minutes you should switch off your car to keep fuel efficiency at its peak and not burn more gas than is necessary. Fuel Efficiency Tip #4 Don’t Turn Off Your Car If you are only stopping for a brief moment or less than 5 minutes then don’t turn off your car because the amount of gas used to crank up is more than you would burn in that short period of time. Fuel Efficiency Tip #5 Inflate Tires Properly Too many drivers never think of their tires, unless one goes flat. However, having tires that are properly inflated can save fuel and make your car more fuel efficient, saving you money. Because of this, you should check your tire pressure on a regular basis. While gas prices don’t seem like they will be dipping considerably in the next few months every tip to help you make your car more fuel efficient is helpful. So, follow the above fuel tips and you will see that over time your car really is more fuel efficient. About the author: SearchArticles.Net offers articles, tips and information on a variety of subjects including cars and trucks. For more tips for your car visit http://www.SearchArticles.Net

5 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Car Cover

by: John Mancini

If you own a collector car, the purchase of a quality car cover can be an important investment. Before making this purchase, there should be ample consideration given to the quality of the car cover itself. Follow these tips while searching for the perfect cover for your perfect car.

1- While looking for a car cover for your vehicle, keep in mind that quality is a factor in this purchase. The better the quality, the better the cover will protect your investment. Look for a cover that is made specifically
for your type of car. Many car cover manufacturers offer a variety of pre-made covers for most types of cars. The cover does not need to be custom made for your vehicle, just made for your specific kind of car.

2- If purchase price is not an issue, then it be might be wise to consider a custom-made car cover. This will ensure that the cover doesn't blow away in a strong wind, will have elastic in all the right spots, can have extra layers of protection built in. The custom cover can even be made in a color to match your car or with some custom embroidery that is just for you.

3- The material that the cover is made from is important also. It needs to be breathable, if the cover holds in moisture it will have dire consequences on your paint. The cover is not supposed to be waterproof, it should, however, dry out quickly after a rain, so that the rain spots are minimal on the paint finish.

4- A cover that has several layers of padding is best for the protection of your vehicle. These added layers will protect your car against such tragedies as limbs falling from trees, the neighbors' cats, stray baseballs and the like.

5- Before you place the perfect cover that you have found on your car, make sure it is clean. A dirty car will be scratched and scuffed no matter what quality cover you put on it. However, having a clean car to start with will help to ensure a well-protected car through the long months in storage.

About the author:
John Mancini has been writing about car covers online and offline for a long time. Visit http://cheap-car-covers.infoor http://www.cheap-car-covers.comto read more about matters like truck bed covers and truck covers.

5 Steps to A Great Rental Car Experience

 

by: John Mancini

There are times in one's life when the use of rental cars cannot be avoided. When someone plows into you at an intersection, when you are taking a 2-day trip and your compact car just does not have enough room to stretch out, these are times when you are happy that there are rental cars at your disposal. Before you rent that car, though, you should know some things about the process.

1- The first step involved in obtaining a rental car is to do research on the companies in your local area. There are a number of nation wide companies and more than likely local companies to choose from when conducting your research. Try to narrow them down to three or four companies that are closest to either your pick up location or your destination.

2- You will want to ask about procedures that may be required by the rental company. Many companies require that the car be fueled up before its return, if this is not done, they will charge you extra for it. It may also be in your best interest to ask what the fee would be if the car is needed for longer than expected as well as what the rate is for late drop off.

3- If you have personal auto insurance, call your agent to see if you are insured with a rental car as well. This will allow you to save money by turning down the insurance offered by the rental company at the time of vehicle pick up.

4- Finally, you have chosen the company and the car, its time to pick it up. Make sure that you have the paper work that you will need. Most companies will require you to show your drivers license, be sure to have it. Also, your proof of auto insurance, if you will be turning their insurance down. A major credit card is necessary; if you are not using cash to rent your car, do not count on them taking a check.

5- Be sure to read the contract and ask questions about anything that you do not understand. It's better to take sometime at the counter or on the phone to pin down the details, than to think you got it and have to deal with the company in the event of an accident. Ask questions!

About the author:
John Mancini has been writing about rental cars online and offline for a long time. Visit http://easy-car-rentals.comor http://find-exotic-car-rentals.comto read more about matters like enterprise rent a car and budget rent a car.

5 Steps To Buying Your Car

by: Jack Hill

Most people do not enjoy buying a car. A survey conducted by CNN revealed that 75% of people would rather visit a dentist than face visiting a car dealership. It's not that people don't want a car - it's just that there are so many pitfalls to negotiate and not everyone can be sure of the right steps to take. Here are a few points to keep in mind to make the process easier. 1. Ask questions, lots of questions. Try to ask sensible questions that will enable you to base your decisions on solid ground. But don't be afraid to just ask and only stop when all your concerns have been properly addressed. 2. Do not let emotion drive you. Pretty cars with all the bells and whistles can blind you to the truth. More often than not you will end up paying more than you need to if you buy with emotion. Be impartial and see the car for what it is and not what you may have fallen in love with. 3. Know exactly what you want before you put a single foot inside the dealership door. An open mind can be easily manipulated, and usually not in your favor. Use brochures, etc, beforehand to determine exactly what you want within your budget, and don't be swayed by smooth talk. 4. Talk to the dealer about the price and not the payments. Dealers who keep referring to the "easy" payments could be avoiding the issue of overall price, and you need to know why. Do your homework and you will know exactly what price fits into a payment plan to fit your budget. But if you focus on payment, you may end up paying more than you bargained for. 5. Know when the time has come to make a decision. That decision could be to walk away, or it could be to close the deal. You should constantly monitor how you feel about the offer being made to you. If it all feels right, then stay with it and see it through. But if you get even just a tiny twinge of something not quite right, be prepared to walk away. Buying a car is not always easy. It's not something most of us do very often and we all want to make the best use of our money. But with sensible and careful planning, and an awareness of the five points above, you can buy the exact right car for you at the exact right price for you. Happy motoring! About the author: Jack Hill is an automotive journalist with a passion for cars of every type and size, which he adequately illustrates at his website: http://www.actcars.comHis main delight is driving his sports car through quiet country lanes, but he feels equally at home driving his wife and three boisterous young sons around in the family saloon.

5 Tips about BMW Accessories

by: Dan Ford

You have worked and worked and worked some more, you have saved and sacrificed. You finally have it, the BMW that you have always wanted. Now, you want, no need to make it more personal, more yours. Its time to accessorize. However, where do you begin? Follow these tips to find the right accessories for you and your car. 1- One of the best places to start your search for the right accessory is online. There are numerous stores and dealers that offer items from floor mats to graphics and everything in between. Online, you can see pictures, read reviews and get the chosen items shipped directly to your door. As an added bonus, many online stores either deeply discount the products or offer free shipping. 2- However, if you prefer, you can go into a BMW dealership and speak with someone personally to pick out the accessories that best suit your personality and price range. The dealership may also be able to help you by allowing you to see what the accessory will look like on your car before you purchase it, therefore avoiding making a costly mistake. 3- Some of the most popular accessories for BMW's are wheels, stereos and interior accessories such as steering wheels and gearshift covers. These particular types of after market items come in a variety of styles and prices, there is, literally something for everyone 4- Another excellent and often overlooked source of BMW accessories are car clubs, specifically BMW clubs. These types of clubs are full of other enthusiasts who are normally very happy to help you search for an accessory as they have the same interests in their cars as you do in yours. You can find these clubs via the internet, yellow pages or BMW car dealers. 5- After all the research and actual searching for accessories is complete, its time to install. For a lot of car buffs this part is more anticipated than actually seeing what the part looks like on. However, to ensure that you are installing the accessory correctly you are going to need instructions. Often times, the part itself comes with, at best, vague directions. It would be best to contact other BMW owners, either through a car club or via online forums and chat rooms. They will be your best source of actual how-to instructions to get your BMW outfitted and more suited to your personality. Have fun. About the author: Dan Ford has been writing about bmw parts online and offline for a long time. Visit http://bmw-parts-finder.infoor http://bmw-performance-parts.comto read more about matters like bmw engine parts and bmw exhaust parts.