Posts tagged: autos

Coping with an Overheating Engine: Useful Driving Tips

By Ethan Melandri, March 11, 2010 8:29 am

To tell if your engine is overheating there are a few warning signs that your car has. The first is the water temperature gauge. When this gauge begins to increase in temperature going towards the red zone it means your car is too hot. This is then followed by the second system, which is the warning light somewhere on your dash. You may even be seeing steam coming from the bonnet at this point. At any time when you see these warning signs it is imperative that you stop the car. Your vehicle can be severely damaged by an overheated engine to the point that repairs are costly.

As soon as you get any indication that your engine is overheating you need to pull over and switch your engine off. Carrying on, even until you reach a service station or garage, could create a large amount of damage to the engine, especially the cylinder head, which is prone to warping under high temperatures and will be very expensive to replace.

Once safely parked on the side of the road, switch on your hazard lights to warn any following drivers of your problem. Providing that there is no fire present you can open the bonnet, to give the engine a chance to cool down, however do not be tempted to touch any of the engine parts at this point, as it is very likely that you will be burnt.

It can take a significant amount of time for the engine to cool down, so you should be prepared for a long wait. If the car overheats during the night hours make sure your sidelights are lit and that you turn the headlights on so you can see what you are doing around the engine.

After the engine has decreased in temperature the first thing to check is the coolant. This is usually the first fluid to be low when your car overheats. By adding water to the radiator you are able to give it fluid. The water should not be too cold as it can crack the container the fluid is held in. Water is not the typical fluid to use, but in an emergency it works fine. The water will dilute the coolant called antifreeze. You will need to have the system flushed by a mechanic before winter to avoid freezing the coolant.

The cap to the coolant filler can be very hot even after the car has cooled down. Steam tends to be trapped inside which will rise, burning your hand. It is best to wait until the outside of the radiator is cool to the touch before opening the cap. You can also use a rag to remove the cap.

Reaching out at arms length to fill the container will help stop you from being hit with hot coolant. You will want to stop and check the levels of the reservoir to ensure you are not over filling it. There is a maximum and minimum line on the container. You will need to check that the temperature gauge is back to normal levels before driving again.

Keep in mind that it is safe to drive again, but there is probably another problem related to the overheating of the engine. You should get your car into a repair shop as soon as you can, and avoid long drives. If the car overheats again after a short time of driving again you will need to stop, call roadside assistance, and have them tow you to a garage.

Before setting out on for a motoring holiday or long journey you should make always sure you are carrying some spare Headlight Bulbs with you. Spare replacement bulbs will ensure that a blown bulb does not ruin your journey and it is worth considering fitting long life Car Bulbs to reduce the possibility of a bulb blowing during your journey.

Hybrid Cars- A Revolution In the Car Industry

By Danny Green, March 10, 2010 10:55 am

Hybrid cars are considered an amazing revolution in the car industry, which has been achieved by the great hard work. The distinguishing feature of these cars is their use of more than two power sources. The most common power sources in a hybrid car include gasoline, or diesel fuels, solar, and hydrogen. One or more electric motors are used with these basic sources to generate power.

World is facing many problems due to the increased population. There is a rapid increase in the number of vehicles along the roads. This has given rise to pollution, and problems related to the increased fuel prices. This problem is addressed by the great minds, by inventing the hybrid cars.

Due to their spectacular characteristics, these cars are a rebellion in the car manufacturing. These cars are atmosphere responsive. They chip in least to amplify in the atmosphere contamination. Atmosphere contamination is one of the foremost troubles of the present day. The Hybrid cars trim down the pollution by 90 percent. As a result, the discharge of the noxious waste is largely condensed.

They are very fuel-efficient cars. The natural resources of the world are depleting with every passing day, therefore, we need to make efforts to increase fuel conservation. As compared to the conventional cars, these hybrid cars are very fuel-efficient. As compared to the typical cars that might travel 15 to 20 miles per gallon, they can get up to 60 miles per gallon in the city driving. They are also better in a sense that they use batteries, which keep on charging as you drive. You do not need to plug in the batteries to charge them. From the speed aspect, they are swifter than the conventional cars.

Two engines are built for the Hybrid cars. One is the electric motor, and the other is gasoline. When the car brings to a standstill at the signals, the gasoline engine is mechanically shut off, and the electric motor is turned on. When additional power is necessary, both engines work at the same time.

Hybrid cars are based on power split technology. It is based on the gearbox. The electric motor along with the internal combustion engine provides additional power to assist the engine in accelerating, passing, or climbing. In some of the drives, where less power is required, the motor provides the only power source. Thus, the consumption of gasoline is reduced in such cases.

They also have a very efficient regenerative braking system. Energy is dissipated when the brakes are applied. The energy produced, turns on the engine, which acts as a generator. In this way, it saves the energy, which would have been wasted otherwise. The energy is stored in the battery for later use.

The Hybrid cars are available with concrete, and puffed up tires. They are packed at a superior pressure to smoothen the journey. Consequently, due to the quality, they offer a less bouncy and relaxing ride. The texture of the tires decrease the resistance, therefore the life of the tire is augmented. The other stunning characteristic of the car is condensed air drag. For this reason, these cars make the most of the reduced frontal area, and at times a stream lined texture. Consequently, all the aforementioned characteristics grade their innovation a groundbreaking step in the motor vehicle manufacturing.

Discover more about Lexus Hybrid Cars, visit the Lexus website for more information and to book a test drive.

Used Cars Reviews & Tips

By Ryan Array, March 9, 2010 10:16 am

The financial woes most of us are experiencing right now have caused many people to rather buy a good used car than face the high installments of a new car. Those who did buy new cars a year or two ago are now often struggling to meet their commitments. Many then opt for selling the car at a bargain price rather than allow the bank to repossess it. This means there are always good used cars for sale.

When buying a used car, you should carefully scrutinize it to make sure you are getting a good deal. There’s no such thing as the bargain of a lifetime: if one car doesn’t do it for you, there are thousands waiting just around the corner.

You can of course buy a used car from a car dealer. This has its advantages and disadvantages. Normally the dealer will check the car and make sure any defects are fixed before putting it on the floor for sale. A reputable dealer wants to maintain his good standing with the banks who are financing his deals, so he would not knowingly sell you a car with defects.

On the other hand, a dealer is a businessman; he can’t sell the cars for the same price he pays for them. So you will pay more for the car than when you buy it from the owner. The peace of mind that comes from buying from a well-know dealership might be worth the extra cost though.

Your second alternative is to browse through all the offline and online classifieds in your area to find the car of your dreams. You will be cutting out the middle man and buying from the owner himself. You will therefore normally pay much less (unless you are a very inept buyer), but you will also have to be highly vigilant. If you have no technical knowledge, take a car mechanic or a friend with technical knowledge with you to inspect the car both inside and outside.

Also study the car’s paperwork. Make sure it actually belongs to the guy who wants to sell it! Ask for proof that he has in fact paid for the vehicle. Many people get in arrears with their monthly repayments and then they try to sell their cars without the bank’s knowledge. In a situation like this the bank can repossess the car and you will be left high and dry with no car and no money.

The sheer numbers of used cars for sale right now makes it a buyer’s market. You can afford to be picky. Don’t let the seller convince you that you have to buy the car within an hour or lose the deal of a lifetime: there are many great deals out there.

Ryan Array comes from TX. began writing about Automotiveseveral years ago. You may want to check out other guide on auto insurance car insurance tips, as well as used cars for sale by owner guide!

What Every Potential Buyer Should Know Before Purchasing a New Car

By Ethan Melandri, March 4, 2010 9:57 pm

Researching what type of vehicle you want, what your budget is, and your finance options takes time, but once you have completed these steps you are closer to purchasing a new or used vehicle. The next step is locating the car you want so that you can go ahead and purchase it. There are numerous places you can look for the vehicle you want to determine what the better place is.

Main or Independent Dealers

If it’s a new or nearly new low mileage car that you are after then you will probably consider going to a main dealer to make your purchase. Buying from a main dealer will normally ensure you receive excellent service and your consumer rights will be fully protected, although you will be paying for this through higher prices.

Independent dealers work well for older cars. You do need to realise that quality and customer service can vary with these dealers. Also be careful to check the warranty for what it covers.

Classifieds for Private Sales

Going through the private classifieds is a good way to get a great deal on a vehicle. Unfortunately you do have to look out for the untrue seller who can be hiding in the pages, as well as traders trying to be private sellers.

When purchasing in a private sale you do not have as many consumer rights. For this reason you need to keep the advertisement as evidence in case the vehicle has issues. You will also want to check the address on the V5 is the same as the seller address in case something does go wrong.

Supermarkets for Automobiles

Supermarkets for cars are becoming more popular. It is quite easy to find one that is located close to you. The prices are generally low, because the cars are bought in bulk. You usually do not have to negotiate, and trade in values tend to be lower.

Car supermarkets do carry a lot of stock so you will probably find quite a few different models that you are looking for, so look out for beneficial optional extras like xenon headlights, air conditioning and alloy wheels.

Vehicle Auction Sites

Auctions that sell vehicles have become another place over the years to get low mileage vehicles for a good price. Better still is the fact that you get a guarantee regarding mechanical problem issues. However, if you are buying at an auction realise your consumer rights are not as plentiful as other options. While you get a bargain you also need to check the vehicle before making a bid.

The Internet

Many dealers have their own internet sites so that you can check the specification and pictures of the vehicle before setting off to see it. However the growth of internet auction sites like Ebay mean you can now buy a vehicle without first viewing it.

The feedback system on Ebay is a good way to gauge the reliability of the seller, so be wary of sellers with only a few or poor ratings. Remember though, that if you have the wining bid and the vehicle is accurately described, you will be legally obliged to buy it.

One of the most popular optional extra available on modern cars is a pair of factory fitted Xenon Bulbs. However if your new vehicle does not have this option fitted as standard you can easily upgrade your Headlight Bulbs to produce a brighter xenon light with a pair of retro fit upgrade bulbs.

What Questions Should I Be Asking When Booking My Wedding Car Hire

By Gavin Burnham, March 2, 2010 10:22 am

You want to look back with fond memories of your wedding day, it is one of the most monumental days of your life, and one that you would want to live in style. The day itself takes a lot of organisation, one aspect of the day which is often over looked or left to the last minute is the wedding transport. Traditionally it is the groom’s responsibility to organize the wedding transport, but many grooms lack of knowledge and understanding make them unaware of exactly how important this day is for the bride-to-be.

Some grooms even give this responsibility to the best man and if you are a bride-to-be and are worried that your groom lacks the understanding on how important it is to find the best transport for you, you may just have to do it yourself. Here are some answers to the frequently asked questions on how to get the most out of your wedding car hire, even if you don’t know a lot about wedding transport.

How many weddings cars will I need? Think about the journey you will make and who will be in the wedding cars, it is important that you think about where the pick up points are and exactly who you would like to be in the cars. How many bridesmaids, flower girls and pageboys will you be having, this will determine how many cars you will need. If you want to stick to the traditional car then why not consider hiring a classic seven seat Daimler Limousine? Also, think about asking a relative or friend to take any large bags or luggage as not all cars have enough storage space.

What size of car should I have? Think about your dress and your comfort in the car, you need to make sure that the car is big enough to fit your dress in comfortably, particularly if the dress has a long train. The wedding car hire company will be happy to advise and to show you suitable cars, but consider the style of your outfit and how this may impact on the car that you choose. You will be able to do this by making an appointment to view the cars in person.

Do I need to view the cars? Always see cars before you book. Older cars can vary greatly in their condition, if the cars are garaged all year, they are likely to be of a higher standard and better maintained. You can check that it is the actual car you will get for your wedding, and a reputable company will be happy to invite you to their showroom to view the cars.

How many weddings cars will I need? Think about the journey you will make and who will be in the wedding cars, it is important that you think about where the pick up points are and exactly who you would like to be in the cars. How many bridesmaids, flower girls and pageboys will you be having, this will determine how many cars you will need. If you want to stick to the traditional car then why not consider hiring a classic seven seat Daimler Limousine? Also, think about asking a relative or friend to take any large bags or luggage as not all cars have enough storage space.

Wedding cars are a vital part of your wedding day so make sure you get the right wedding car. If you want to travel in style at your wedding, a wedding car is the ideal choice; it will make a positive contribution to what is sure to be one of the most memorable days of your life.

Want to read the rest of the article and find out more about wedding car hire, then visit www.cars4weddings.co.uk site on how to choose the best wedding cars orpington for your needs.

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