Dec
30
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Michael Thornessen asked:
Boy, these people are something special!
You know, while researching the cars, I read a lot about dealing with car dealers. People generally have a negative attitude towards them and the whole car buying experience, and you can find tons of information on how to avoid their scams, how to lower the price, how to negotiate with them, what to tell them, etc, etc. An excellent website to inform yourself on all aspects of car buying is Car Buying Tips: (http://www.carbuyingtips.com/). Now with all the great info and details I learned from various sources, I still thought that generally the prevailing attitude is not realistic. I mean, you almost get a feeling that if you pay anything more than a factory price, you made a bad deal. You can certainly succeed in lowering the price apparently to a large extent, but it is the fact that the dealers have to make money too. Ok, sometimes just selling the car, e.g. to meet their projected numbers, is beneficial to them, and they might give away even the whole of their profit for that sake. But come on, I can consider such situation just a crazy luck, not my goal! Anyway, I think that the current craze about “beating” those prices down to the floor is just as unrealistic and aggressive as the dealer’s craze to take as much money from you as possible.
However, after this buying experience, I lost pretty much any respect and sympathy for the dealers. And I will always advise anyone never to become one. Of course some of them were great examples of normal and pleasant behaviour, but unfortunately I must say that most of them have taken the activity of deceit and aggressiveness to such extent that for an honest and well meaning man the idea of going to a dealership must be repugnant. I very quickly got such a strong feeling of insecurity about everything I was told by them. I think everything was a lie, smaller or bigger. A lot of what I’ve heard I don’t believe, and none of it I trust.
Here are some of the examples, more or less funny, from my recent experience:
Systematic approach
I enter a dealership, with the intention of exploring a car that really caught my attention simply by offering all of the basic features I wanted. So I wanted to see it, test drive it, and ask a couple of questions. So I ask the dealer: “I’ve read that the crash test scores for this model are not that good, most are graded 3 out of 5. Now, I know that there are different tests, and you can’t judge simply by the grade. Do you know more details about those tests and the scores? What is tested exactly, and how did they score the cars?”
The answer was: “Yes, yes I know, the scores are not the best possible. I know. But you know — what do they mean really? (And I’m thinking — yes, that is exactly what I asked) You see, a grade of 3 is really not that bad. It’s almost like 4. What is the difference? Almost nothing let me tell you. And also, all of that means something only in most severe crashes!!”
Well, no kidding!! What a thorough explanation. Now I understand and my worries are gone. And what a relief. So, if a car is simply parked on a lot, I shouldn’t worry that it will suddenly open the hood and hit me right in the face!
Bonding
A question occurred to me about a car, and I decided to drop by a dealership to ask. My visit was about 10 minutes long — of course we exchanged numbers, I got the brochure and usual stuff. Tomorrow morning, my cell phone rings, I answer and I get this:
- “Hey Michael, Jord here from the dealership.”
- “Hey Jord, how are you, what’s up?” (I thought he might have just gotten some good used car)
- “Nothing, nothing…just wanted to see how are you.”
Huh… If this doesn’t sound as a start of a beautiful friendship I don’t know what does!
Then he goes on:
- “So have you made a decision on which car you want?”
- “No, not really, not yet. I told you I’ll need some time, and I’m not rushing really.”
- “Ok, tell me, what’s blocking it? Can I help?”
Man, of course you can! Go do something else instead of asking me questions…
Landing on all four whatever happens
I wasn’t sure about a size of a trunk of one of the models, so on my visit to the dealerships I brought couple of boxes and a cart that I use often to see how they fit into the trunk. Now this was one of the smaller cars, so I wasn’t sure about the trunk size. And I tell the dealer what I’d like to do and he says no problem. So I take out the stuff and he laughs:
- “C’mooon, how can you doubt it — that will fit without a problem. Don’t worry!!”
- “Wait, wait, let me try, I know what I’m talking about.”
And then I try, and he tries, but it doesn’t go so easy — the cart is a bit long and the boxes a bit high. Separately they go in no problem, but together, not that easy. Finally, he laughs again and remarks:
- “And you really thought ALL OF THAT will fit into this trunk??!!”
Wha…??
Get all the money you can
I receive a long talk describing how I should buy the replacement insurance. And the more expensive one (”better” in the jargon), which covers you for a longer time and gives you the value of the new car, rather the amount that you paid. Ok, that is a fine product. Now I also get a long description on how I should absolutely buy a VIN engraving package where they engrave the VIN on all windshields so that the thieves are less likely to steal it (they can’t sell the windshields for parts). It’s about $300. Well, I gave both of these things a good thought, but tomorrow I realized a simple thing: Why do I need two protections? If I get the replacement insurance, and if they are going to give me a new car if mine is stolen, why would I then protect it even more?? Damn, I should also probably buy two cars in case one is stolen after all.
And on top of that, I found on the internet that the engraving kit, very simple to use and apply, can be bought for mere $20.
Get all the money you can — again
This one is well-known, and usually titled as a “dealer scam”, but I decided I put it here anyways just as another example.
So I finally decide to buy the car and I arrive to the dealership at around 6:00pm. I expect the process to last about an hour. However, little thing here and there and I end up at the dealership for four hours. I think ok, nobody’s fault, there are simply a lot of things to do and a lot of people to involve — the dealer, finance guy, insurance girl, then the finance guy again, then the manager because there was an error, etc. So, I get the contract with all the figures there, and everything looks fine: all the figures match almost perfectly to mine that I calculated before. Except one thing — $900 of loan life insurance. So I ask:
- “Why is it there? Is that mandatory?”
- “Well, we made such an application to Company’s Finance.”
- “Ok, but is it mandatory?”
- “We could reapply and see what happens — if you have life insurance elsewhere.”
Now, you see, I am not too easy to confuse, but it was late and I didn’t want to repeat the whole process again, so I’m thinking: “Ok, I’m going to think about it tomorrow.” And I let it by. Now good thing was that I had the contract with me (I had to take it home for my wife to sign), so I wasn’t too worried.
Anyhow, in the morning I realize that not only it is not mandatory to have the insurance and that I definitely do not need life insurance elsewhere, but another application without it will certainly go through. And, at that point I sincerely doubted that they need to make another application at all. So I get really angry and I go there and I get the exact same answer again. So I say:
- “Let’s apply again; I am sure the application will go trough. I simply don’t want it and I never wanted it and I never asked for it. And if it doesn’t we’ll see then what we do.”
And she does the paperwork, and seeing me irritated remarks: “Don’t worry I’m sure it will go trough.”
Of course it will — and it does.
Get on customer’s side — even if you overdo it
One of the dealers was affirming every little thing I said. It got funny and a bit annoying:
He thought that the features I wanted are absolutely the only important features in the car.
He was also in computer business just a few years ago.
The funniest was when we discussed payment options. He told me that leasing is a better option if I want to change the car every couple of years. So I say:
- “You know, I am more the other type of buyer, at least so far. I drive one car for years before I buy a new one, so I probably won’t go with the lease.”
- “I understand, I completely understand. You know, the worst part of the auto business for me is that you simply have to change the car every 1-2 years. I **** that. If I wasn’t selling cars, I would do the same as you.”
Well, this really made me feel like home. C’mon guys, we just met and will probably never see each other again; don’t do these things.
Advertise what you have
This one was not really on the negative side, it was just funny. I went to Subaru and dealers there were actually very cool. They were very cooperative, and without the aggressive edge. And they never called me to push or ask whether I’ve made a decision. They also have a great program where you can take the car for 24hr test drive. I had really a good experience with them.
Anyhow, I told this dealer that I know that their cars use specific technology in their engine that is different from all other cars, and that repairs can be expensive. And he says:
- “Yeah, it’s so called Boxer engine where pistons are opposed horizontally instead of vertically. But we are not the only ones to use it… Porsche uses it — you know Porsche Boxster. … And some smaller planes.”
Well, that much for the affordable repairs…
Then he also added that it’s an old technology that has been well perfected so far and that I shouldn’t worry really, which was a bit more reassuring.
Always fish for customer’s weak spots — even in the dark
Honda was giving rebate and they advertised it everywhere: that was very important sales pitch. Now I come to a dealership, and one of the first things the guy tells me is:
“You know, I’ll tell you one thing: we will give you a good rebate, and it’s Honda’s rebate but most of the dealers won’t even mention it.”
He made it as if he is letting me know a secret, and not only that it isn’t, but it’s all over radio, their website, everywhere. But I might have been uninformed and careless and would think that I’m getting a special deal.
Lie like there’s no tomorrow and hope you don’t get caught
I was quite close to buying a car so I called some dealerships inquiring whether they have a certain model and the color on the lot. I told them I don’t want the car to be brought from some other dealership. I want to see the car and get the one I saw. This is because I don’t want to get into whole new set of issues and questions. For example, one dealer told me that they charge extra delivery fee if they bring the car from other dealership, which is by the way ridiculous and perhaps deserves story on its own. It can also happen that the car that arrives is different in some detail than what you wanted, and you already signed the papers. Etc.
So I made sure they know what I want, and then came to one of the dealerships. We chat a bit and then I say:
- “So let me see the car.”
- “Oh, I was afraid you were gonna ask me that. I really don’t know exactly where the car is.”
I laugh: “But I told you I want to see the car before I buy it.”
- “Oh, don’t worry — it’s here, I’m just not sure where.”
- “Ok, I’ll go outside and look for it.”
- “But our lots are really big.”
- “I don’t mind, I have the time.”
- “But they are not really all here — we have two lots a few blocks away.”
I just don’t like arguing that much — in cases like these I give up and simply walk away.
A good guy
The positive highlight was a young dealer for which I could quickly tell that he is not (yet) turned his abilities into a deceitful routine — he even gets confused a bit when I ask him a stupid question. To me that is the normal reaction. And when I asked him what he drives, he said: “an old Volvo, you know it’s a really good car.” I am really sorry that cars he was selling were not suitable for me — I would have been very happy to buy one from him. And I didn’t even feel like negotiation with him at all.
—————————————————————————–
Read the rest on following pages:
Part One: Why and What?
Part Two: How?
Part Three: Models and Makes
DANNY
Boy, these people are something special!
You know, while researching the cars, I read a lot about dealing with car dealers. People generally have a negative attitude towards them and the whole car buying experience, and you can find tons of information on how to avoid their scams, how to lower the price, how to negotiate with them, what to tell them, etc, etc. An excellent website to inform yourself on all aspects of car buying is Car Buying Tips: (http://www.carbuyingtips.com/). Now with all the great info and details I learned from various sources, I still thought that generally the prevailing attitude is not realistic. I mean, you almost get a feeling that if you pay anything more than a factory price, you made a bad deal. You can certainly succeed in lowering the price apparently to a large extent, but it is the fact that the dealers have to make money too. Ok, sometimes just selling the car, e.g. to meet their projected numbers, is beneficial to them, and they might give away even the whole of their profit for that sake. But come on, I can consider such situation just a crazy luck, not my goal! Anyway, I think that the current craze about “beating” those prices down to the floor is just as unrealistic and aggressive as the dealer’s craze to take as much money from you as possible.
However, after this buying experience, I lost pretty much any respect and sympathy for the dealers. And I will always advise anyone never to become one. Of course some of them were great examples of normal and pleasant behaviour, but unfortunately I must say that most of them have taken the activity of deceit and aggressiveness to such extent that for an honest and well meaning man the idea of going to a dealership must be repugnant. I very quickly got such a strong feeling of insecurity about everything I was told by them. I think everything was a lie, smaller or bigger. A lot of what I’ve heard I don’t believe, and none of it I trust.
Here are some of the examples, more or less funny, from my recent experience:
Systematic approach
I enter a dealership, with the intention of exploring a car that really caught my attention simply by offering all of the basic features I wanted. So I wanted to see it, test drive it, and ask a couple of questions. So I ask the dealer: “I’ve read that the crash test scores for this model are not that good, most are graded 3 out of 5. Now, I know that there are different tests, and you can’t judge simply by the grade. Do you know more details about those tests and the scores? What is tested exactly, and how did they score the cars?”
The answer was: “Yes, yes I know, the scores are not the best possible. I know. But you know — what do they mean really? (And I’m thinking — yes, that is exactly what I asked) You see, a grade of 3 is really not that bad. It’s almost like 4. What is the difference? Almost nothing let me tell you. And also, all of that means something only in most severe crashes!!”
Well, no kidding!! What a thorough explanation. Now I understand and my worries are gone. And what a relief. So, if a car is simply parked on a lot, I shouldn’t worry that it will suddenly open the hood and hit me right in the face!
Bonding
A question occurred to me about a car, and I decided to drop by a dealership to ask. My visit was about 10 minutes long — of course we exchanged numbers, I got the brochure and usual stuff. Tomorrow morning, my cell phone rings, I answer and I get this:
- “Hey Michael, Jord here from the dealership.”
- “Hey Jord, how are you, what’s up?” (I thought he might have just gotten some good used car)
- “Nothing, nothing…just wanted to see how are you.”
Huh… If this doesn’t sound as a start of a beautiful friendship I don’t know what does!
Then he goes on:
- “So have you made a decision on which car you want?”
- “No, not really, not yet. I told you I’ll need some time, and I’m not rushing really.”
- “Ok, tell me, what’s blocking it? Can I help?”
Man, of course you can! Go do something else instead of asking me questions…
Landing on all four whatever happens
I wasn’t sure about a size of a trunk of one of the models, so on my visit to the dealerships I brought couple of boxes and a cart that I use often to see how they fit into the trunk. Now this was one of the smaller cars, so I wasn’t sure about the trunk size. And I tell the dealer what I’d like to do and he says no problem. So I take out the stuff and he laughs:
- “C’mooon, how can you doubt it — that will fit without a problem. Don’t worry!!”
- “Wait, wait, let me try, I know what I’m talking about.”
And then I try, and he tries, but it doesn’t go so easy — the cart is a bit long and the boxes a bit high. Separately they go in no problem, but together, not that easy. Finally, he laughs again and remarks:
- “And you really thought ALL OF THAT will fit into this trunk??!!”
Wha…??
Get all the money you can
I receive a long talk describing how I should buy the replacement insurance. And the more expensive one (”better” in the jargon), which covers you for a longer time and gives you the value of the new car, rather the amount that you paid. Ok, that is a fine product. Now I also get a long description on how I should absolutely buy a VIN engraving package where they engrave the VIN on all windshields so that the thieves are less likely to steal it (they can’t sell the windshields for parts). It’s about $300. Well, I gave both of these things a good thought, but tomorrow I realized a simple thing: Why do I need two protections? If I get the replacement insurance, and if they are going to give me a new car if mine is stolen, why would I then protect it even more?? Damn, I should also probably buy two cars in case one is stolen after all.
And on top of that, I found on the internet that the engraving kit, very simple to use and apply, can be bought for mere $20.
Get all the money you can — again
This one is well-known, and usually titled as a “dealer scam”, but I decided I put it here anyways just as another example.
So I finally decide to buy the car and I arrive to the dealership at around 6:00pm. I expect the process to last about an hour. However, little thing here and there and I end up at the dealership for four hours. I think ok, nobody’s fault, there are simply a lot of things to do and a lot of people to involve — the dealer, finance guy, insurance girl, then the finance guy again, then the manager because there was an error, etc. So, I get the contract with all the figures there, and everything looks fine: all the figures match almost perfectly to mine that I calculated before. Except one thing — $900 of loan life insurance. So I ask:
- “Why is it there? Is that mandatory?”
- “Well, we made such an application to Company’s Finance.”
- “Ok, but is it mandatory?”
- “We could reapply and see what happens — if you have life insurance elsewhere.”
Now, you see, I am not too easy to confuse, but it was late and I didn’t want to repeat the whole process again, so I’m thinking: “Ok, I’m going to think about it tomorrow.” And I let it by. Now good thing was that I had the contract with me (I had to take it home for my wife to sign), so I wasn’t too worried.
Anyhow, in the morning I realize that not only it is not mandatory to have the insurance and that I definitely do not need life insurance elsewhere, but another application without it will certainly go through. And, at that point I sincerely doubted that they need to make another application at all. So I get really angry and I go there and I get the exact same answer again. So I say:
- “Let’s apply again; I am sure the application will go trough. I simply don’t want it and I never wanted it and I never asked for it. And if it doesn’t we’ll see then what we do.”
And she does the paperwork, and seeing me irritated remarks: “Don’t worry I’m sure it will go trough.”
Of course it will — and it does.
Get on customer’s side — even if you overdo it
One of the dealers was affirming every little thing I said. It got funny and a bit annoying:
He thought that the features I wanted are absolutely the only important features in the car.
He was also in computer business just a few years ago.
The funniest was when we discussed payment options. He told me that leasing is a better option if I want to change the car every couple of years. So I say:
- “You know, I am more the other type of buyer, at least so far. I drive one car for years before I buy a new one, so I probably won’t go with the lease.”
- “I understand, I completely understand. You know, the worst part of the auto business for me is that you simply have to change the car every 1-2 years. I **** that. If I wasn’t selling cars, I would do the same as you.”
Well, this really made me feel like home. C’mon guys, we just met and will probably never see each other again; don’t do these things.
Advertise what you have
This one was not really on the negative side, it was just funny. I went to Subaru and dealers there were actually very cool. They were very cooperative, and without the aggressive edge. And they never called me to push or ask whether I’ve made a decision. They also have a great program where you can take the car for 24hr test drive. I had really a good experience with them.
Anyhow, I told this dealer that I know that their cars use specific technology in their engine that is different from all other cars, and that repairs can be expensive. And he says:
- “Yeah, it’s so called Boxer engine where pistons are opposed horizontally instead of vertically. But we are not the only ones to use it… Porsche uses it — you know Porsche Boxster. … And some smaller planes.”
Well, that much for the affordable repairs…
Then he also added that it’s an old technology that has been well perfected so far and that I shouldn’t worry really, which was a bit more reassuring.
Always fish for customer’s weak spots — even in the dark
Honda was giving rebate and they advertised it everywhere: that was very important sales pitch. Now I come to a dealership, and one of the first things the guy tells me is:
“You know, I’ll tell you one thing: we will give you a good rebate, and it’s Honda’s rebate but most of the dealers won’t even mention it.”
He made it as if he is letting me know a secret, and not only that it isn’t, but it’s all over radio, their website, everywhere. But I might have been uninformed and careless and would think that I’m getting a special deal.
Lie like there’s no tomorrow and hope you don’t get caught
I was quite close to buying a car so I called some dealerships inquiring whether they have a certain model and the color on the lot. I told them I don’t want the car to be brought from some other dealership. I want to see the car and get the one I saw. This is because I don’t want to get into whole new set of issues and questions. For example, one dealer told me that they charge extra delivery fee if they bring the car from other dealership, which is by the way ridiculous and perhaps deserves story on its own. It can also happen that the car that arrives is different in some detail than what you wanted, and you already signed the papers. Etc.
So I made sure they know what I want, and then came to one of the dealerships. We chat a bit and then I say:
- “So let me see the car.”
- “Oh, I was afraid you were gonna ask me that. I really don’t know exactly where the car is.”
I laugh: “But I told you I want to see the car before I buy it.”
- “Oh, don’t worry — it’s here, I’m just not sure where.”
- “Ok, I’ll go outside and look for it.”
- “But our lots are really big.”
- “I don’t mind, I have the time.”
- “But they are not really all here — we have two lots a few blocks away.”
I just don’t like arguing that much — in cases like these I give up and simply walk away.
A good guy
The positive highlight was a young dealer for which I could quickly tell that he is not (yet) turned his abilities into a deceitful routine — he even gets confused a bit when I ask him a stupid question. To me that is the normal reaction. And when I asked him what he drives, he said: “an old Volvo, you know it’s a really good car.” I am really sorry that cars he was selling were not suitable for me — I would have been very happy to buy one from him. And I didn’t even feel like negotiation with him at all.
—————————————————————————–
Read the rest on following pages:
Part One: Why and What?
Part Two: How?
Part Three: Models and Makes
DANNY
Dec
25
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Mark Markham asked:
Sure you could build your own subwoofer box - but how much do you really save? First you have to design the subwoofer box and make sure everything is just right. Then you have to drive around town finding the materials: Wood (MDF), carpet, glue, caulking and connectors (see estimated material costs below). Then you have to cut your materials, assemble the subwoofer box and then hope everything comes together as planned (Murphy’s Law not withstanding). The last thing you want to do is miscalculate and have to start over. Let’s just assume everything goes right up to this point in the project – now you are faced with the challenge of carpeting an odd shaped subwoofer enclosure. Best case scenario you are successful and accomplish this entire process in under 10 hrs – best case! Now your weekend is half over when you could have been out enjoying your tunes with our custom built, guaranteed to fit Subwoofer Box. Is your “spare” time not worth at least $15/hour? That subwoofer box you just built just cost you $150+ and that doesn’t include any materials*.
Here’s a rough estimate for a typical DYI subwoofer box:
* Estimated Material Costs:
Single sheet of MDF = $25
Glue = $15 (high end wood glue)
Nails or staples = $ 5 (16 to 18 gauge)
Terminal(s) = $ 3
Caulk to seal seams = $ 5
Carpet - $35
Total Estimated Material Cost = $88.00
Estimate labor cost $150
Tools Required:
Table Saw (ideal)
Jig Saw (or router)
Nail Gun (ideal)
Hole Saw (for terminals)
Clamps
Subwoofer boxes can be purchased online for reasonable prices. Many companies build Subwoofer enclosures for less money because these boxes are built hundreds at a time from templates. They also save on material costs because they buy in bulk from wholesalers.
You can easily order custom Truck Subwoofer Boxes or Car Subwoofer Enclosures online. For example, at SuperCrewSound.com, you can select from a variety of subwoofer boxes. Theses subwoofer boxes are custom built and professionally designed to fit specific vehicle models.
So before you contemplate on building your own subwoofer box, you might want to consider leaving the work to the professionals - enjoy your time, save money and get a better subwoofer box in the process. Makes sense doesn’t it?
WILLARD
Sure you could build your own subwoofer box - but how much do you really save? First you have to design the subwoofer box and make sure everything is just right. Then you have to drive around town finding the materials: Wood (MDF), carpet, glue, caulking and connectors (see estimated material costs below). Then you have to cut your materials, assemble the subwoofer box and then hope everything comes together as planned (Murphy’s Law not withstanding). The last thing you want to do is miscalculate and have to start over. Let’s just assume everything goes right up to this point in the project – now you are faced with the challenge of carpeting an odd shaped subwoofer enclosure. Best case scenario you are successful and accomplish this entire process in under 10 hrs – best case! Now your weekend is half over when you could have been out enjoying your tunes with our custom built, guaranteed to fit Subwoofer Box. Is your “spare” time not worth at least $15/hour? That subwoofer box you just built just cost you $150+ and that doesn’t include any materials*.
Here’s a rough estimate for a typical DYI subwoofer box:
* Estimated Material Costs:
Single sheet of MDF = $25
Glue = $15 (high end wood glue)
Nails or staples = $ 5 (16 to 18 gauge)
Terminal(s) = $ 3
Caulk to seal seams = $ 5
Carpet - $35
Total Estimated Material Cost = $88.00
Estimate labor cost $150
Tools Required:
Table Saw (ideal)
Jig Saw (or router)
Nail Gun (ideal)
Hole Saw (for terminals)
Clamps
Subwoofer boxes can be purchased online for reasonable prices. Many companies build Subwoofer enclosures for less money because these boxes are built hundreds at a time from templates. They also save on material costs because they buy in bulk from wholesalers.
You can easily order custom Truck Subwoofer Boxes or Car Subwoofer Enclosures online. For example, at SuperCrewSound.com, you can select from a variety of subwoofer boxes. Theses subwoofer boxes are custom built and professionally designed to fit specific vehicle models.
So before you contemplate on building your own subwoofer box, you might want to consider leaving the work to the professionals - enjoy your time, save money and get a better subwoofer box in the process. Makes sense doesn’t it?
WILLARD
Dec
2
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Levi Quinn asked:
When you cut your finger on a bit of glass, or you have a bit of a headache, you know where to go. To the first aid box, which is filled with wonderful pieces of kit that can have us feeling just right again as quickly as you can say “boo-boo”? For your car, though, you can have a first aid kit that allows it to deal with the minor knocks and nasties that befall a vehicle every once in a while. If your car has the same recurring problem which is either beyond the ken of your mechanic, or too minor to bother spending money getting it fixed, then there is every reason that you should have a few items that make such problems easy to deal with.
For one thing, your car like your home should have a first aid box. If you are constantly on long drives with the occasional passenger, it is worth having medication - including travel sickness meds if you are travelling with someone prone to that particular curse, or if you are not sure. It really, really beats having to pull over regularly to allow them to get sick, trust me. It affects more grown-ups than you would think, but most kids get motion sickness at some level when they are younger. All other kinds of medication that you can think of should be provided too, because you never know when you might need them. Although if any cause drowsiness, then it is perhaps wise to refrain from taking them until there is somewhere you can stop. Whatever the case, it should be a bespoke travel first aid kit that allows you to deal with realistic ailments.
The first aid for your car should be similarly realistic. Things like snow tires, (or for the sake of portability, snow chains), various fluids and smaller moving parts are all things that can come into the equation when you are travelling over long distances. Just to have them in your boot right now means that when you come to need them some way down the line you are not inwardly cursing yourself for forgetting to include them.
Then there are the other things that do not constitute human or car first aid as such, but can come in extremely useful, especially if your journey is struck by misfortune. In case of an accident far away from anywhere, aside from bandages, what might you need? Water, for washing cuts? Check. Blankets? Check. Food? Check. On a long journey, if things do not go as you had wished, you may find yourself stranded a long way from anywhere. So water is an essential for survival as well as for emergency usage. You may need to sleep in the car, so blankets and a pillow will be useful too. And excessively filling food would be an idea too - for minimum storage but maximum nourishment.
Anything else? Well, there are as many things as you can think of. The best thing to do is sit down and think of what YOU would need if you had to live in a car for a prolonged period. Reality-check your list - you may really like to have a fishing rod with you, but if it is going to take up space that could be better used, it would be best to leave it behind. And when you have written the list, follow it to the letter. You do not want to find yourself stranded one day, thinking “If I had actually followed that list, I would not be about to be eaten by this wolf”.
CYRUS
When you cut your finger on a bit of glass, or you have a bit of a headache, you know where to go. To the first aid box, which is filled with wonderful pieces of kit that can have us feeling just right again as quickly as you can say “boo-boo”? For your car, though, you can have a first aid kit that allows it to deal with the minor knocks and nasties that befall a vehicle every once in a while. If your car has the same recurring problem which is either beyond the ken of your mechanic, or too minor to bother spending money getting it fixed, then there is every reason that you should have a few items that make such problems easy to deal with.
For one thing, your car like your home should have a first aid box. If you are constantly on long drives with the occasional passenger, it is worth having medication - including travel sickness meds if you are travelling with someone prone to that particular curse, or if you are not sure. It really, really beats having to pull over regularly to allow them to get sick, trust me. It affects more grown-ups than you would think, but most kids get motion sickness at some level when they are younger. All other kinds of medication that you can think of should be provided too, because you never know when you might need them. Although if any cause drowsiness, then it is perhaps wise to refrain from taking them until there is somewhere you can stop. Whatever the case, it should be a bespoke travel first aid kit that allows you to deal with realistic ailments.
The first aid for your car should be similarly realistic. Things like snow tires, (or for the sake of portability, snow chains), various fluids and smaller moving parts are all things that can come into the equation when you are travelling over long distances. Just to have them in your boot right now means that when you come to need them some way down the line you are not inwardly cursing yourself for forgetting to include them.
Then there are the other things that do not constitute human or car first aid as such, but can come in extremely useful, especially if your journey is struck by misfortune. In case of an accident far away from anywhere, aside from bandages, what might you need? Water, for washing cuts? Check. Blankets? Check. Food? Check. On a long journey, if things do not go as you had wished, you may find yourself stranded a long way from anywhere. So water is an essential for survival as well as for emergency usage. You may need to sleep in the car, so blankets and a pillow will be useful too. And excessively filling food would be an idea too - for minimum storage but maximum nourishment.
Anything else? Well, there are as many things as you can think of. The best thing to do is sit down and think of what YOU would need if you had to live in a car for a prolonged period. Reality-check your list - you may really like to have a fishing rod with you, but if it is going to take up space that could be better used, it would be best to leave it behind. And when you have written the list, follow it to the letter. You do not want to find yourself stranded one day, thinking “If I had actually followed that list, I would not be about to be eaten by this wolf”.
CYRUS
Nov
15
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Mark Markham asked:
When it comes to your vehicle’s sub woofer box, bigger is not always better. But you do not want one that is too small either. What do you do?
Why is proper sizing of the sub woofer box important? The main reason is because proper sizing allows for proper placement in your vehicle. Proper placement means that you and your passengers will all enjoy the same high quality sound from your stereo whether sitting in the front, back or on the left or right.
You can buy a pre-fab sub woofer box, or have one custom made. The cost to have a sub woofer box custom made is not as much as you might think. If you have made a solid investment in stereo equipment for your car or truck, the cost of a custom sub woofer box is well worth it. Otherwise, the money you have invested in stereo equipment might as well be tossed around in your car - like the sound from an improperly sized subwoofer box will distribute sound.
Buying a pre-made sub woofer box is fine, too, as long as you get the right size for your vehicle. It just makes sense that a Toyota Tacoma would need a different size sub woofer box than a larger vehicle like a Dodge Ram Quad Cab. Along the same lines, a large vehicle wouldn’t want to be stuck with a sub woofer that’s too small to handle the output needed to create quality sound.
When you’re interested in producing quality stereo sound in your vehicle, don’t overlook details. While having “the right size” sub woofer box in your car or truck may seem like an aesthetics issue, remember that the right size means the box can be positioned in the right place, leading to a maximized auto audio experience!
SEAN
When it comes to your vehicle’s sub woofer box, bigger is not always better. But you do not want one that is too small either. What do you do?
Why is proper sizing of the sub woofer box important? The main reason is because proper sizing allows for proper placement in your vehicle. Proper placement means that you and your passengers will all enjoy the same high quality sound from your stereo whether sitting in the front, back or on the left or right.
You can buy a pre-fab sub woofer box, or have one custom made. The cost to have a sub woofer box custom made is not as much as you might think. If you have made a solid investment in stereo equipment for your car or truck, the cost of a custom sub woofer box is well worth it. Otherwise, the money you have invested in stereo equipment might as well be tossed around in your car - like the sound from an improperly sized subwoofer box will distribute sound.
Buying a pre-made sub woofer box is fine, too, as long as you get the right size for your vehicle. It just makes sense that a Toyota Tacoma would need a different size sub woofer box than a larger vehicle like a Dodge Ram Quad Cab. Along the same lines, a large vehicle wouldn’t want to be stuck with a sub woofer that’s too small to handle the output needed to create quality sound.
When you’re interested in producing quality stereo sound in your vehicle, don’t overlook details. While having “the right size” sub woofer box in your car or truck may seem like an aesthetics issue, remember that the right size means the box can be positioned in the right place, leading to a maximized auto audio experience!
SEAN
Nov
14
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Ben Smith asked:
Installing your Dension iPod Car Kit is straightforward and is slightly different depending on the kit you have ordered for you particular vehicle. Have a read through the options below and if you don’t really want to install yourself, at the bottom of the page you’ll find details of finding a professional installer in your area. Many customers prefer to leave it to someone with the experience to ensure a successful installation first time.
*Full Installation Instructions and User Manual are supplied with all Dension iPod ice>Link Plus versions. Average installation time by our customers is between 15 and 60 minutes enabling any basic DIYer to install this product comfortably giving you endless hours of music in under an hour.
Mounting the Active Cradle:
If you have selected an option that includes the Active Cradle as opposed to the Dock Cable then you will need a mounting Bracket to position the cradle on your dash providing easy access of your iPod.
We recommend mounting the Active Cradle using the supplied screws with the addition of a Dashmount Mounting Bracket or Brodit Mounting Bracket ensuring a neat, safe and professional installation.
Dashmount Brackets are Vehicle Specific Damage-Free Mounting Brackets and they are made for your particular car make and model ensuring a perfect fit. They install in minutes without any drilling and protect your dash providing a quick, easy and secure installation giving an integrated look with your car dash and interior. Detailed easy installation instructions are included with each bracket.
To view click the Dashmount Bracket or Brodit Mounting Bracket links or the links on the product menu to left of website.
If your vehicle is not listed select the Universal bracket option as these are compatible with any vehicle. Universal brackets have an arm that simply slides into position at one side of your radio. Choose between 10mm, 30mm & 45mm arm lengths depending whether your radio is flush with your dash or recessed. A flush radio would use a 10mm Bracket and a radio recessed deep in the dash would use a 45mm bracket.
See an example of the mounting brackets in position.
Dension Active Cradle iPod ice>Link Plus Adapter Installation:
Dension Ice Link adapter installation is generally far easier than you would expect. The Ice Link lead simply connects to the *CD Changer Socket found at the rear of your radio by push-fit connection and then to your iPod using your selected connection type. The iPod can mount on your dash using a Dashmount vehicle specific bracket or a universal bracket if there isn’t a Dashmount Bracket available for your vehicle, utilising the included plate and screws. No wiring is necessary.
*If you are using a changer and your socket is taken you will need the FM ipod car kit. Here you can have the best or both worlds and use both your changer and your iPod.
Dension Dock Cable iPod ice>Link Plus Adapter Installation:
The Ice Link lead simply connects to the *CD Changer Socket found at the rear of your radio by push-fit connection and then to your iPod using the dock cable that will locate in your glove box for easy access. No wiring is necessary.
*If you are using a changer and your socket is taken you will need the FM ipod car kit. Here you can have the best or both worlds and use both your changer and your iPod.
Dension FM Modulator iPod ice>Link Plus Adapter Installation:
Slightly different to the above options, the Dension FM Modulator Ice Link has 3 connections to be made. To power the FM Modulator you connect a switched 12V live and an earth to the unit from your cars wiring using the 2 included Scotch Locks preventing the need to solder, allowing a quick installation by any competent DIYer. You then disconnect the aerial lead from the rear of your radio and connect this in-line with the FM unit all by push-fit connection. The iPod mounts on your dash using the cradle utilising the included plate and screws.
Dension Auxiliary iPod ice>Link Plus Adapter Installation:
The Auxiliary Ice Link lead simply connects to the Auxiliary input connection (2 x Phono Connections) found on your radio by push-fit connection and then to your iPod using your selected connection type. To power the Auxiliary Adapter you connect a switched 12V live and an earth to the unit from your cars wiring using the 2 included Scotch Locks preventing the need to solder, allowing a quick installation by any competent DIYer. The iPod can mount on your dash using the cradle (if selected) utilising the included plate and screws or it can locate in your glove box using the dock cable.
Recommended Professional Installation Service:
If like a number of our clients, you would prefer an Installation Professional to help we highly recommend InCar-Installer.com, the UK’s Leading In-Car Nationwide Installation Service Company.
Alternatively look in your local Yellow Pages under the (Car Electrics & Car Audio) categories or visit Yell.com to find an installer in your area. If you would like to have the installation carried out at your home or workplace, look for a mobile installer in the advert or ask when you call them if they offer this service. You’ll be surprised, that you find it’s cheaper for someone to call to you and install it than to leave it at some fancy garage.
EMERSON
Installing your Dension iPod Car Kit is straightforward and is slightly different depending on the kit you have ordered for you particular vehicle. Have a read through the options below and if you don’t really want to install yourself, at the bottom of the page you’ll find details of finding a professional installer in your area. Many customers prefer to leave it to someone with the experience to ensure a successful installation first time.
*Full Installation Instructions and User Manual are supplied with all Dension iPod ice>Link Plus versions. Average installation time by our customers is between 15 and 60 minutes enabling any basic DIYer to install this product comfortably giving you endless hours of music in under an hour.
Mounting the Active Cradle:
If you have selected an option that includes the Active Cradle as opposed to the Dock Cable then you will need a mounting Bracket to position the cradle on your dash providing easy access of your iPod.
We recommend mounting the Active Cradle using the supplied screws with the addition of a Dashmount Mounting Bracket or Brodit Mounting Bracket ensuring a neat, safe and professional installation.
Dashmount Brackets are Vehicle Specific Damage-Free Mounting Brackets and they are made for your particular car make and model ensuring a perfect fit. They install in minutes without any drilling and protect your dash providing a quick, easy and secure installation giving an integrated look with your car dash and interior. Detailed easy installation instructions are included with each bracket.
To view click the Dashmount Bracket or Brodit Mounting Bracket links or the links on the product menu to left of website.
If your vehicle is not listed select the Universal bracket option as these are compatible with any vehicle. Universal brackets have an arm that simply slides into position at one side of your radio. Choose between 10mm, 30mm & 45mm arm lengths depending whether your radio is flush with your dash or recessed. A flush radio would use a 10mm Bracket and a radio recessed deep in the dash would use a 45mm bracket.
See an example of the mounting brackets in position.
Dension Active Cradle iPod ice>Link Plus Adapter Installation:
Dension Ice Link adapter installation is generally far easier than you would expect. The Ice Link lead simply connects to the *CD Changer Socket found at the rear of your radio by push-fit connection and then to your iPod using your selected connection type. The iPod can mount on your dash using a Dashmount vehicle specific bracket or a universal bracket if there isn’t a Dashmount Bracket available for your vehicle, utilising the included plate and screws. No wiring is necessary.
*If you are using a changer and your socket is taken you will need the FM ipod car kit. Here you can have the best or both worlds and use both your changer and your iPod.
Dension Dock Cable iPod ice>Link Plus Adapter Installation:
The Ice Link lead simply connects to the *CD Changer Socket found at the rear of your radio by push-fit connection and then to your iPod using the dock cable that will locate in your glove box for easy access. No wiring is necessary.
*If you are using a changer and your socket is taken you will need the FM ipod car kit. Here you can have the best or both worlds and use both your changer and your iPod.
Dension FM Modulator iPod ice>Link Plus Adapter Installation:
Slightly different to the above options, the Dension FM Modulator Ice Link has 3 connections to be made. To power the FM Modulator you connect a switched 12V live and an earth to the unit from your cars wiring using the 2 included Scotch Locks preventing the need to solder, allowing a quick installation by any competent DIYer. You then disconnect the aerial lead from the rear of your radio and connect this in-line with the FM unit all by push-fit connection. The iPod mounts on your dash using the cradle utilising the included plate and screws.
Dension Auxiliary iPod ice>Link Plus Adapter Installation:
The Auxiliary Ice Link lead simply connects to the Auxiliary input connection (2 x Phono Connections) found on your radio by push-fit connection and then to your iPod using your selected connection type. To power the Auxiliary Adapter you connect a switched 12V live and an earth to the unit from your cars wiring using the 2 included Scotch Locks preventing the need to solder, allowing a quick installation by any competent DIYer. The iPod can mount on your dash using the cradle (if selected) utilising the included plate and screws or it can locate in your glove box using the dock cable.
Recommended Professional Installation Service:
If like a number of our clients, you would prefer an Installation Professional to help we highly recommend InCar-Installer.com, the UK’s Leading In-Car Nationwide Installation Service Company.
Alternatively look in your local Yellow Pages under the (Car Electrics & Car Audio) categories or visit Yell.com to find an installer in your area. If you would like to have the installation carried out at your home or workplace, look for a mobile installer in the advert or ask when you call them if they offer this service. You’ll be surprised, that you find it’s cheaper for someone to call to you and install it than to leave it at some fancy garage.
EMERSON
Nov
11
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Mark Markham asked:
If you are a music lover, when you pop in a CD or fire up your MP3 player in your car, your dream is to be able to feel like you are sitting right in front of the artist playing the music that you love. So whether you like the elegant massaging of piano keys or the powerful guitar riffs, accurate reproduction is the key to making that dream come true. If you can’t sense the pretty sounds of the saxophone in your stomach or feel that intense beat of the electric drum in your chest, then you must invest in your audio system to put you back in the front row.
By incorporating car audio equipment components such as subwoofers and amplifiers to your mobile audio system, the time you spend on the road can become your favorite part of the day. The properly customized selection of car audio equipment will add quality, volume, and depth to your music and greatly enhance your listening and driving experience.
One of the first car audio equipment purchases you should consider is a set of high-quality speakers. Enhancing your speaker system is one of the best ways to get the finest sound in your vehicle. Your speaker purchases should also include a subwoofer to give your music resonance and dimension by opening up its full range of low frequency sound or “Bass Thump” as known on the street. It’s one thing to hear the music you love, it’s quite another to “feel” it. Along with these car audio equipment additions, consider a custom subwoofer box for your subwoofer. Custom Subwoofer Boxes are designed to mesh with your car’s interior and save valuable space.
If you like your music loud-especially if you drive a noisy car or like cruising with your windows down-an essential piece of car audio equipment is an amplifier. A car amplifier will give your speakers the juice they need so you can crank up the volume, ensuring that your music doesn’t have to compete with your engine and/or road noise. This piece of car audio equipment will also improve the clarity and detail of your music.
Other car audio equipment you might want to consider include a plug-and-play satellite radio to give you musical variety wherever you go, a multi-disk CD/MP3 player and changer to ensure hours and hours of your favorite music, and an auxiliary input adapter to let you hook your MP3 player to your car’s sound system.
ELWOOD
If you are a music lover, when you pop in a CD or fire up your MP3 player in your car, your dream is to be able to feel like you are sitting right in front of the artist playing the music that you love. So whether you like the elegant massaging of piano keys or the powerful guitar riffs, accurate reproduction is the key to making that dream come true. If you can’t sense the pretty sounds of the saxophone in your stomach or feel that intense beat of the electric drum in your chest, then you must invest in your audio system to put you back in the front row.
By incorporating car audio equipment components such as subwoofers and amplifiers to your mobile audio system, the time you spend on the road can become your favorite part of the day. The properly customized selection of car audio equipment will add quality, volume, and depth to your music and greatly enhance your listening and driving experience.
One of the first car audio equipment purchases you should consider is a set of high-quality speakers. Enhancing your speaker system is one of the best ways to get the finest sound in your vehicle. Your speaker purchases should also include a subwoofer to give your music resonance and dimension by opening up its full range of low frequency sound or “Bass Thump” as known on the street. It’s one thing to hear the music you love, it’s quite another to “feel” it. Along with these car audio equipment additions, consider a custom subwoofer box for your subwoofer. Custom Subwoofer Boxes are designed to mesh with your car’s interior and save valuable space.
If you like your music loud-especially if you drive a noisy car or like cruising with your windows down-an essential piece of car audio equipment is an amplifier. A car amplifier will give your speakers the juice they need so you can crank up the volume, ensuring that your music doesn’t have to compete with your engine and/or road noise. This piece of car audio equipment will also improve the clarity and detail of your music.
Other car audio equipment you might want to consider include a plug-and-play satellite radio to give you musical variety wherever you go, a multi-disk CD/MP3 player and changer to ensure hours and hours of your favorite music, and an auxiliary input adapter to let you hook your MP3 player to your car’s sound system.
ELWOOD
Oct
31
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Mark Markham asked:
You just spent several hundred dollars vamping up the sound system for your vehicle. However, when someone mentioned that you should buy subwoofer enclosures, you knew that you had just what you needed and that it wouldn’t cost another dime. Glad you saved the box, you set your speakers into the speaker boxes they came in and carefully close the lid.
While most people would never dream of doing this, many do decide to scrimp on speaker boxes, figuring they can build their own. While it’s certainly possible, most people don’t have the tools, materials and know-how to make speaker boxes that will serve their purpose without yelling “homemade.” Here are some things to consider about custom, professional speaker boxes.
You can have the most awesome sound system in the world, but kill the effects by muffling. Speaker boxes should be a way to protect your equipment, but should never interfere with the flow of sound. Many speaker boxes do just that. While sound will travel around wood, carpeting and other coverings, the best quality sound has nothing interrupting the natural flow.
Professional speaker boxes that are made specifically for your vehicle will provide stability and protection for your equipment, but will never impede the sound.
Think you have to make your own speaker boxes because they have to fit in a very small space? Think again. You can find all kinds of speaker boxes that will fit almost anywhere. And after these speaker boxes are in place, all you’ll ever need to worry about is how to handle the envy that’s bound to come to the surface when others hear the awesome sound and look for the source.
All in all, you’ve probably got a significant investment tied up in your stereo system. Doesn’t it just make sense to take that one additional step and get the speaker boxes that will do everything speaker boxes are supposed to do?
You can easily order custom Truck Subwoofer Boxes or Car SubWoofer Enclosures online. For example, at SuperCrewSound.com, you can select from a variety of subwoofer boxes. Theses subwoofer boxes are custom built and professionally designed to fit specific vehicle models. Whether you want to install the enclosed subwoofers in the trunk or under the backseat, car audio professionals and installation experts will help you get the best sound out of your system that you can. Complete the sound system in our vehicle and fully enjoy your beautiful ride!
STEFAN
You just spent several hundred dollars vamping up the sound system for your vehicle. However, when someone mentioned that you should buy subwoofer enclosures, you knew that you had just what you needed and that it wouldn’t cost another dime. Glad you saved the box, you set your speakers into the speaker boxes they came in and carefully close the lid.
While most people would never dream of doing this, many do decide to scrimp on speaker boxes, figuring they can build their own. While it’s certainly possible, most people don’t have the tools, materials and know-how to make speaker boxes that will serve their purpose without yelling “homemade.” Here are some things to consider about custom, professional speaker boxes.
You can have the most awesome sound system in the world, but kill the effects by muffling. Speaker boxes should be a way to protect your equipment, but should never interfere with the flow of sound. Many speaker boxes do just that. While sound will travel around wood, carpeting and other coverings, the best quality sound has nothing interrupting the natural flow.
Professional speaker boxes that are made specifically for your vehicle will provide stability and protection for your equipment, but will never impede the sound.
Think you have to make your own speaker boxes because they have to fit in a very small space? Think again. You can find all kinds of speaker boxes that will fit almost anywhere. And after these speaker boxes are in place, all you’ll ever need to worry about is how to handle the envy that’s bound to come to the surface when others hear the awesome sound and look for the source.
All in all, you’ve probably got a significant investment tied up in your stereo system. Doesn’t it just make sense to take that one additional step and get the speaker boxes that will do everything speaker boxes are supposed to do?
You can easily order custom Truck Subwoofer Boxes or Car SubWoofer Enclosures online. For example, at SuperCrewSound.com, you can select from a variety of subwoofer boxes. Theses subwoofer boxes are custom built and professionally designed to fit specific vehicle models. Whether you want to install the enclosed subwoofers in the trunk or under the backseat, car audio professionals and installation experts will help you get the best sound out of your system that you can. Complete the sound system in our vehicle and fully enjoy your beautiful ride!
STEFAN
Oct
24
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Brenda Williams asked:
A car with automatic transmission was first developed in the 1940’s; the popularity of the automatic gear box has risen greatly from the 50’s. They have become hugely successful in the United States and other parts of the world, but in Europe the old fashioned manual transmission still reins supreme with car customers. Having a car with an automatic transmission system means that there is no clutch pedal and there is no need to worry about gear changing as the automatic gear box does all the hard work for you. It’s an argument of preference between purchasing a car with an automatic or a manual gear box. Some advantages of both over the other are highlighted below.
Advantages of Automatic
Automatic cars are much easier to get used to, especially if you are a new, elderly or learner driver. Some people prefer them because there is no need to worry about which gear to select or the actual manual gear changing itself, the clever automatic transmission does it all for you, this is especially advantageous when driving through traffic or busy towns and cities as you don’t have to worry about constantly changing gears as you would with a manual transmission. Learner drivers are allowed to learn and take their test in an automatic car which could turn out easier to pass, however if you do pass using an automatic car it will be on your licence and you will not be allowed under law to drive a manual transmission car.
Advantages of Manual
The biggest benefit of using a car with manual transmission is you have a greater control over gear selection; gears can be selected and changed in accordance to the person’s judgment and the situation in hand. There are also greater financial benefits if you own a manual transmission car, it is a well known fact that cars with an automatic gear box will use more fuel per journey over the same car in its class with a manual submission, which could be down to many facts such as automatic cars are usually heavier. Manual cars are not only cheaper to run but they are also cheaper to maintain, if something goes wrong with the transmission on an automatic car it can become very expensive indeed to fix. If your battery or something else related where you will need to bump start the car, this is very easy to do with a manual car as you put it in gear, roll down the hill and bump it, with an automatic car however you can’t really do this so you will have to call for road side assistance instead. Manual transmission cars are also slightly cheaper to purchase in the first place compared to cars with an automatic transmission.
Technological advances in the car industry has enabled the gap between cars with automatic and manual submissions to shorten, as a result more and more people are investing their money in an automatic car as their next new automobile. For some people who are unsure, there are semi-automatic cars on the market which have an automatic transmission system but also they will usually feature an override button so you can switch to manual transmission using the gear stick.
ANDREA
A car with automatic transmission was first developed in the 1940’s; the popularity of the automatic gear box has risen greatly from the 50’s. They have become hugely successful in the United States and other parts of the world, but in Europe the old fashioned manual transmission still reins supreme with car customers. Having a car with an automatic transmission system means that there is no clutch pedal and there is no need to worry about gear changing as the automatic gear box does all the hard work for you. It’s an argument of preference between purchasing a car with an automatic or a manual gear box. Some advantages of both over the other are highlighted below.
Advantages of Automatic
Automatic cars are much easier to get used to, especially if you are a new, elderly or learner driver. Some people prefer them because there is no need to worry about which gear to select or the actual manual gear changing itself, the clever automatic transmission does it all for you, this is especially advantageous when driving through traffic or busy towns and cities as you don’t have to worry about constantly changing gears as you would with a manual transmission. Learner drivers are allowed to learn and take their test in an automatic car which could turn out easier to pass, however if you do pass using an automatic car it will be on your licence and you will not be allowed under law to drive a manual transmission car.
Advantages of Manual
The biggest benefit of using a car with manual transmission is you have a greater control over gear selection; gears can be selected and changed in accordance to the person’s judgment and the situation in hand. There are also greater financial benefits if you own a manual transmission car, it is a well known fact that cars with an automatic gear box will use more fuel per journey over the same car in its class with a manual submission, which could be down to many facts such as automatic cars are usually heavier. Manual cars are not only cheaper to run but they are also cheaper to maintain, if something goes wrong with the transmission on an automatic car it can become very expensive indeed to fix. If your battery or something else related where you will need to bump start the car, this is very easy to do with a manual car as you put it in gear, roll down the hill and bump it, with an automatic car however you can’t really do this so you will have to call for road side assistance instead. Manual transmission cars are also slightly cheaper to purchase in the first place compared to cars with an automatic transmission.
Technological advances in the car industry has enabled the gap between cars with automatic and manual submissions to shorten, as a result more and more people are investing their money in an automatic car as their next new automobile. For some people who are unsure, there are semi-automatic cars on the market which have an automatic transmission system but also they will usually feature an override button so you can switch to manual transmission using the gear stick.
ANDREA
Oct
20
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Kevin Creese asked:
Go to any car dealership and you can be certain you’ll come across a used Ford Mondeo - it is a fact as inevitable as the world being round or water being wet. Supplies of Ford cars are plentiful - used Ford especially so - with competitive pricing and popular styling just two features of a car company making arguably the best cars it ever has done.
There are two histories the used Ford Mondeo sitting on the forecourt could have in its logbook. The first history would reveal a mid-thirtysomething salesman with many motorway journeys under his belt (and many corporate lunches too no doubt). His suit jacket having been lovingly hung up in the back as it accompanied him on his travels and sales pitter patter. The second life the car could’ve had would be the all purpose, all conquering family pet. Muddy football boots, furniture from Ikea and mountains of glitter from a night out would all have come into contact with the Mondeo.
Whether the car comes with life history 1 or history 2, it doesn’t matter. Either way the car would’ve faithfully carried out it’s duties and has only appeared on the forecourt because either: a) salesman didn’t sell enough and was sacked, b) salesman sold lots and was given a new Mondeo, c) family had another child and bought a people carrier. A good buy on all accounts then, but before you decide on which colour to go for, let me fill you in on the birth of the Mondeo and how it made Ford’s accountants’ life expectancies rise dramatically.
Replacing an institution is tough. Whether you’re singing Freddie Mercury’s parts for Queen, acting James Bond in the latest film, or playing rugby instead of an injured Johnny Wilkinson for England, you’ll be more closely scrutinised than the original. And so was the case with the Mondeo. Entering the showrooms in 1993, the new car replaced the much-loved granddaddy, the Ford Sierra. Despite its global market, the European arm of Ford was haemorrhaging money and had developed the unenviable reputation of making cars the accountants wanted. This resulted in poorly built vehicles that were as interesting to look at as a Monet in a cardboard box.
Things started promisingly (not for the accountants mind) as the Mondeo shared very little in the way of parts or design with its appalling 90’s predecessors the Escort and Orion - resulting in high development costs. Top pub quiz fact: it was the first car to have a drivers’ airbag across the entire range. This forward thinking from Ford meant it topped many safety test standings and appealed to companies not wishing to give their staff death traps and of course families. Sales rocketed and it was named European Car of the Year in 1994.
One criticism was that the styling was still more cardboard box than Monet. A facelift in 1996 addressed this to such a degree, that only the doors and roof remained the same as the Mk I model. The corporate Ford oval was incorporated into the front grill giving the car a more curvy and playful look. Still no Monet but the palette was starting to take shape. The facelift was as well-received as Jackie Collins’ and this helped boost sales further although the additional outlay from Ford did mean specification levels dropped, meaning wheel trims were back and alloy wheels were consigned to the optional extras order form.
Over the next four years, with Ford’s European fortunes taking a drastic u-turn for the better and as the new space-edge Ka and Focus models were being launched, the Mondeo was suddenly in need of another shot of botox. As the new millennium dawned, so did the Mk III Mondeo – the car that more than likely stands before you at the used Ford dealership. Although it was in the same design club as the Ka and Focus, it wasn’t considered part of the ‘New Edge’ Ford design and therefore sat in the corner of the club looking restrained. A more expensive, Volkswagen Passat inspired interior is the stand-out feature, which looks expensive because it is.
Combined with further safety enhancements including the excitingly titled ‘Intelligent Protection System’ (IPS) which was a system that basically decided for you which life-saving features to use in the event of a crash. It was the most popular large family car for its entire 2000 – 2007 life-cycle. It is too early to comment on the latest Mk IV model, although it did find its way into the latest Bond film ‘Casino Royale’ for a brief scene, before being swiftly replaced by Bond’s orginal Aston Martin DB5 (what did I say about following an institution?)
To summarise, the Mondeo may be the most popular vehicle of its class and therefore buying one will result in you being as unique as a Manchester United supporter, but it has sold in it’s droves for a mutlitude of good reasons. The choice as they say, is yours.
GARLAND
Go to any car dealership and you can be certain you’ll come across a used Ford Mondeo - it is a fact as inevitable as the world being round or water being wet. Supplies of Ford cars are plentiful - used Ford especially so - with competitive pricing and popular styling just two features of a car company making arguably the best cars it ever has done.
There are two histories the used Ford Mondeo sitting on the forecourt could have in its logbook. The first history would reveal a mid-thirtysomething salesman with many motorway journeys under his belt (and many corporate lunches too no doubt). His suit jacket having been lovingly hung up in the back as it accompanied him on his travels and sales pitter patter. The second life the car could’ve had would be the all purpose, all conquering family pet. Muddy football boots, furniture from Ikea and mountains of glitter from a night out would all have come into contact with the Mondeo.
Whether the car comes with life history 1 or history 2, it doesn’t matter. Either way the car would’ve faithfully carried out it’s duties and has only appeared on the forecourt because either: a) salesman didn’t sell enough and was sacked, b) salesman sold lots and was given a new Mondeo, c) family had another child and bought a people carrier. A good buy on all accounts then, but before you decide on which colour to go for, let me fill you in on the birth of the Mondeo and how it made Ford’s accountants’ life expectancies rise dramatically.
Replacing an institution is tough. Whether you’re singing Freddie Mercury’s parts for Queen, acting James Bond in the latest film, or playing rugby instead of an injured Johnny Wilkinson for England, you’ll be more closely scrutinised than the original. And so was the case with the Mondeo. Entering the showrooms in 1993, the new car replaced the much-loved granddaddy, the Ford Sierra. Despite its global market, the European arm of Ford was haemorrhaging money and had developed the unenviable reputation of making cars the accountants wanted. This resulted in poorly built vehicles that were as interesting to look at as a Monet in a cardboard box.
Things started promisingly (not for the accountants mind) as the Mondeo shared very little in the way of parts or design with its appalling 90’s predecessors the Escort and Orion - resulting in high development costs. Top pub quiz fact: it was the first car to have a drivers’ airbag across the entire range. This forward thinking from Ford meant it topped many safety test standings and appealed to companies not wishing to give their staff death traps and of course families. Sales rocketed and it was named European Car of the Year in 1994.
One criticism was that the styling was still more cardboard box than Monet. A facelift in 1996 addressed this to such a degree, that only the doors and roof remained the same as the Mk I model. The corporate Ford oval was incorporated into the front grill giving the car a more curvy and playful look. Still no Monet but the palette was starting to take shape. The facelift was as well-received as Jackie Collins’ and this helped boost sales further although the additional outlay from Ford did mean specification levels dropped, meaning wheel trims were back and alloy wheels were consigned to the optional extras order form.
Over the next four years, with Ford’s European fortunes taking a drastic u-turn for the better and as the new space-edge Ka and Focus models were being launched, the Mondeo was suddenly in need of another shot of botox. As the new millennium dawned, so did the Mk III Mondeo – the car that more than likely stands before you at the used Ford dealership. Although it was in the same design club as the Ka and Focus, it wasn’t considered part of the ‘New Edge’ Ford design and therefore sat in the corner of the club looking restrained. A more expensive, Volkswagen Passat inspired interior is the stand-out feature, which looks expensive because it is.
Combined with further safety enhancements including the excitingly titled ‘Intelligent Protection System’ (IPS) which was a system that basically decided for you which life-saving features to use in the event of a crash. It was the most popular large family car for its entire 2000 – 2007 life-cycle. It is too early to comment on the latest Mk IV model, although it did find its way into the latest Bond film ‘Casino Royale’ for a brief scene, before being swiftly replaced by Bond’s orginal Aston Martin DB5 (what did I say about following an institution?)
To summarise, the Mondeo may be the most popular vehicle of its class and therefore buying one will result in you being as unique as a Manchester United supporter, but it has sold in it’s droves for a mutlitude of good reasons. The choice as they say, is yours.
GARLAND
Oct
20
Filed Under Automotive | Leave a Comment
Arthur Raise asked:
Traveling on highways and small tree lined country roads in a car is exciting and an adventure for most city and town dwellers. But you must remember that once you exit major roads and settlements you may need to travel miles before you come across a gas station, house, or mechanic. So you must prepare your car old or new for a road trip.
Begin preparations for the trip by planning the journey. Get a road map and study the roads you will take, decide where you will spend the night if the trip is for more than a day. Make a list of essentials you will need to pack including making a list of emergency numbers.
Be sure to:
1. Give the car a thorough once over at a garage. Get major tune ups and repairs done at least two weeks in advance so that any minor adjustments will all be done before you set out.
2. Get all fluids topped up or replaced; battery fluids, brake oils, engine oils, coolants and so on. If your destination is warmer or cooler than home tell the garage so that they can adjust anti-freeze and water mixture to suit your destination.
3. Get tires checked and aligned. Replace worn out tires and get the tires properly inflated. If you feel it is essential get a mobile puncture repair kit, pressure gauge, and a small portable air tank.
4. Ensure that all door and boot locks are working and that windows are in working order too.
5. Do a physical check on your boot; check the tool box, spare tire, and jack.
6. Put in the glove box a set of car papers, insurance documents, and list of emergency numbers. Keep a manufacturer’s manual handy. Put in a small box containing prescription medicines, a torch, and spare batteries.
7. Ensure that the car has a car adaptor to charge mobile phones.
8. Schedule maintenance just before you leave.
9. Get a AA membership and if you already have one get their 24/7 assistance numbers.
10. Ring a friend or family member and let them know where you are headed and your contact numbers.
If you have any serious medical problems then consult your doctor before leaving on a long road trip. Make sure all your insurance papers medical as well as car insurance are in good order. Keep a copy of your medical records with you just in case there is some emergency.
Ensure that you shut all the gas and mains before you leave and lock up the house with a check list by your side. Never leave a set of keys on the lintel or under a pot. And if you are planning to be away for a while inform the neighborhood watch as well as police station so that they will be vigilant. Alternately get a house sitter.
Enjoy your trip.
STEFAN
Traveling on highways and small tree lined country roads in a car is exciting and an adventure for most city and town dwellers. But you must remember that once you exit major roads and settlements you may need to travel miles before you come across a gas station, house, or mechanic. So you must prepare your car old or new for a road trip.
Begin preparations for the trip by planning the journey. Get a road map and study the roads you will take, decide where you will spend the night if the trip is for more than a day. Make a list of essentials you will need to pack including making a list of emergency numbers.
Be sure to:
1. Give the car a thorough once over at a garage. Get major tune ups and repairs done at least two weeks in advance so that any minor adjustments will all be done before you set out.
2. Get all fluids topped up or replaced; battery fluids, brake oils, engine oils, coolants and so on. If your destination is warmer or cooler than home tell the garage so that they can adjust anti-freeze and water mixture to suit your destination.
3. Get tires checked and aligned. Replace worn out tires and get the tires properly inflated. If you feel it is essential get a mobile puncture repair kit, pressure gauge, and a small portable air tank.
4. Ensure that all door and boot locks are working and that windows are in working order too.
5. Do a physical check on your boot; check the tool box, spare tire, and jack.
6. Put in the glove box a set of car papers, insurance documents, and list of emergency numbers. Keep a manufacturer’s manual handy. Put in a small box containing prescription medicines, a torch, and spare batteries.
7. Ensure that the car has a car adaptor to charge mobile phones.
8. Schedule maintenance just before you leave.
9. Get a AA membership and if you already have one get their 24/7 assistance numbers.
10. Ring a friend or family member and let them know where you are headed and your contact numbers.
If you have any serious medical problems then consult your doctor before leaving on a long road trip. Make sure all your insurance papers medical as well as car insurance are in good order. Keep a copy of your medical records with you just in case there is some emergency.
Ensure that you shut all the gas and mains before you leave and lock up the house with a check list by your side. Never leave a set of keys on the lintel or under a pot. And if you are planning to be away for a while inform the neighborhood watch as well as police station so that they will be vigilant. Alternately get a house sitter.
Enjoy your trip.
STEFAN