A Few Car Maintenance Don'ts

By Levi Quinn

Here's a no-brainer: A car or truck of any variety is bound to be an enormously complex machine. It doesn't matter the make or the model; what matters is that automobiles are complicated and intricate, and therefore they require a great deal of knowledge and initiative in order to fully maintain them. In other words, you can't be a responsible car owner without knowing some of the do's of car maintenance; as in, do check your oil levels, do schedule routine service, and so forth. And just as important are the car maintenance don't's; those things you want to avoid at all cost in order to ensure that your car is running its best.

For instance: Don't make the mistake of thinking that regular washing and waxing are irrelevant, or that they are merely cosmetic. Actually, these acts are important parts of the maintenance cycle. Washing and waxing your car on a regular basis will help ward off any corrosion, and will ultimately extend the life of your vehicle.

Here's another one: Don't pretend like your engine light is irrelevant, and don't ignore it when it comes on. Contrary to what you may think, this light is not some ploy by the dealership to get you to bring your vehicle in for servicing. When the engine service light is ignited, it's because there is something wrong with your vehicle's engine. Often, it is a relatively minor thing that a mechanic can fix quickly, but if you ignore it, the problem could escalate, and the repairs could ultimately become far more costly and time-consuming.

And on a related note, here is, perhaps, the most important don't of them all: Whatever you do, don't neglect routine maintenance. Scheduling your car for a regular check-up at your local mechanic or dealership service center may seem inconvenient now, but be sure that it's ultimately a much better use of your time and money than waiting for your car to start falling apart. Routine service can prevent the need for costlier, more major repairs and replacements down the road.

With that said, here's one last don't, this one to help you save some money; don't take your car in for servicing when it isn't necessary. This may surprise you, but in reality, a lot of folks take their automobiles in for oil changes far more often than is necessary. There are a lot of myths about how often an oil change is truly necessary, but you can get the real scoop just by consulting your owner's manual.

The basic gist of all of these, of course, is simply that negligence will prove to be costly in the long run so, if you want to keep your car on the road without shelling out big bucks, simply don't ignore regular, routine maintenance. Taking care of your automobile in the short-term will ultimately prove highly beneficial in the long run.

Have you reviewed your car insurance lately? Visit Auto Insurance Rates Direct today for free information, then get a free auto insurance quote and find a good price. Protect your whole family (including cheap insurance for young drivers) with the policy that's right for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Quinn



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Today's Driving Environment - It's Crazy!

By Patrick Barrett

You don't have to be a genius to realize that almost anyone can get a driver license today. Haven't you seen some idiot on the road zip by you going 35 mph OVER the speed limit, jump into another lane and then stop on the shoulder of the freeway so he can back up and get to the exit ramp he missed? Crazy, isn't it?

And we're just talking about what's on the road. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration there are more than 1,700 fatalities and 840,000 injuries yearly due to vehicle crashes off public highways.

"How did he ever get a license?

"Did his license fall into his bowl as he was pouring out his daily ration of Fruit Loops?"

Of course, some drivers eat their Fruit Loops while they're driving (and texting!!).
Crazy drivers abound - you don't need me to tell you that.

My guess is you're not surprised by the fact that new teen drivers are 4 times more likely to be involved in a FATAL crash.

As a parent, I remember the dilemma - "How can he be old enough to drive? He can't even keep his room picked up?..It seems like just yesterday when he started Cub Scouts. Wow, where did the time go?"

Well, you can't put the genie back into the bottle, so you need figure out a way to handle this.
I've talked with a lot of moms and dads who thought 25 would be the age when they thought their girl might be okay to start driving. I know the feeling. But they are growing up and sooner than you want, you're going to have an empty bedroom in the house.
Yes, it happens to all of us...time waits for no one.

So what is the best use of your time and what is the best way to choose a parent taught drivers education course that's practical, thorough and can give you peace of mind. It's an important choice for any parent, make sure to research your options and pick the one that fits your schedule and needs.

Driving today is nothing like it was when we started driving -. there are more drivers, more vehicles, more types of vehicles, and more distracting elements with wireless communication devices galore, vehicles with unintended acceleration, and what seems like recalls every week.
Yeah, it's scary.

Patrick L. Barrett is a nationally known expert in training for collision-free driving. Pat owns Driver Ed in a Box LLC, a company with a mission to provide families with the knowledge and tools necessary to build the habits of safe, collision-free driving through their parent taught drivers education course.

For more information on Patrick Barrett or Driver Ed in a Box LLC please visit: http://driveredinabox.com/home/

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Inexpensive Ways To Make Your Auto And Driving Safer

By Marilyn Katz

Be A Safer Driver With A Safer Vehicle!

All drivers want to avoid accidents. When we have accidents, we put ourselves in danger. We also could put other people in danger. In addition, we are bound to have to endure additional expenses and inconvenience. If you knew about some very inexpensive things you could do to make your auto and driving safer, wouldn't it be worth it?

Auto Navigation Systems

GPS devices used to be expensive. Now they can be found at dozens of retailers with prices that start around $100. These handy little units actually tell you when to turn in order to reach your destination. They are also very easy to mount on your dashboard with any special tools.
Those audio directions save you from having to take your eyes off the road to search for street signs and addresses. Even worse, you may be looking away from the road and other traffic in order to read a map while you are driving. It is a lot safer to just listen to directions from the speaker of your GPS!

Some of them can also help you find service stations, food, and lodging when you are driving in a strange area.

I do not know if any actual statistics exist, but I am certain that these navigation systems have prevented hundreds of wrecks.

Check Your Vehicle For Safety And Comfort

Make it a habit to check a few things on your vehicle every few days. These things are simple to adjust, and they can make the difference between driving safely and having problems on the road.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good shape. When your tires are under inflated, your car will not handle as well. In addition, you will use more gas. Worse yet, you could risk a blowout.

Check your tires for signs of wear. One of the most dangerous situations is having a blowout or flat tire while you are driving in traffic.

If you share your vehicle with other drivers, make sure your seats, wheel, and mirrors are set to a comfortable position. It only takes a few seconds to make adjustments, and that way you will be sure you can handle your vehicle and see out of your mirrors!

Driver's Safety Class

You may think that driver's education classes are only for teenagers. However, when I decided to
take a refresher course to save some money on my auto insurance rates, I was amazed by the good tips that the class gave us.

I got reminded of some safe driving tips I had forgotten, learned some new things, and did save enough money on my auto policy to pay for the class!

You can take one day classes in many convenient locations. You can even take one at home with a DVD or over the Internet.

In my opinion, this classes are a good investment. You can save money on your auto policy and get reminded of some safe driving tips you may have forgotten.

Drive Safer To Save Your Life and Finances

If you have ever had an accident, you know that they are inconvenient and expensive. Worse yet, people can get hurt. It will certainly pay off to make sure your vehicle and driving are as safe as possible!

If you are a safe driver, or if you have had a few accidents, you can save money by comparing rates with our free Online Insurance Quotes. You need to find the best car insurance quotes for your own family.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilyn_Katz




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Driving a Car: Driving and Emergency Stops

By Robert David Morgan

The drill for stopping is always the same, except in an emergency. You must learn it thoroughly from the very beginning. The amount of pressure you need to apply to the footbrake depends on your speed and also on how quickly you need to stop!

The drill for stopping should go as followed:
a. Use the mirrors.
b. Decide whether you need to signal you intention to stop, and then signal if necessary.
c. Take your foot off the accelerator. The engine will slow down.
d. Push down on the brake pedal lightly with your right foot and then more firmly (progressive braking).
e. Just before the car stops, press the clutch pedal right down with the left foot. This will disengage the engine from the driving wheel and will prevent stalling the engine. Don't do it too soon: the engine helps with the braking.
f. Ease the pressure off the footbrake just as the car stops.
g. Apply the parking brake.
h. Put the gear lever into neutral.
i. Take both feet off the pedals.

It is seldom necessary to change down when you're stopping normally. However, your car should always be in the right gear for the road speed and conditions. As mentioned before, Progressive braking is a safe driving technique which allows other drivers time to react; it prevents your wheels from locking and will prevent skidding. This technique will also save the wear on your tyres and brakes and saves fuel.

To brake progressively:
a. Put light pressure on the brake at first
b. Gradually increase the pressure as required to stop the car
c. When the car has almost stopped, ease off the pressure so that the car stops smoothly. There should be little or no pressure as the car actually stops.

To practice, choose a particular point at which you would like to stop. See how near to it you can get. It's better to stop short of the mark rather than overshoot it. You can always ease off the brakes and run forward a bit more. Stopping at the kerb needs practice too. Aim to stop reasonably close to the kerb without hitting it and trying to keep both hands on the steering wheel!

In normal conditions, a good driver should not need to brake really hard. However, emergencies can happen - for example, if a child runs into the road in front of you, knowledge of stopping quickly and under control is a must. Stopping in an emergency increases the risk of skidding and wheel lock.

Always remember, even when stopping quickly, follow the rule of progressive braking, pushing the brake pedal harder as the car slows down. A quick reaction is crucial in an emergency. The sooner you start braking, the sooner you should stop!

a. When you brake in an emergency don't signal - you will need both hands to control the steering.
b. Try not to make a special point of looking in the mirror; you should know what is behind you anyway.
c. Stop as quickly and as safely as possible, keeping your vehicle under full control, and always look around you before moving off again!

Always try to avoid the emergency arising by looking well ahead, always watch for children playing especially around school times. Always look out for pedestrians, try and look out for clues such as shadows.

You should always drive at such a speed that you can stop safely in the distance you can see to be clear. If it's not clear, slow down. Always prepare for the unexpected.

From Rob Morgan at Budgen Motors http://www.budgenmotorcars.co.uk

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_David_Morgan



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Driving a Car: The Importance of Braking

By Robert David Morgan

When it comes to braking you should always try to slow down gradually and smoothly. Safe and controlled braking is vital in good driving.

If you anticipate properly, you'll seldom need to brake fiercely. Good anticipation will give you time to brake progressively over a longer distance. Late harsh braking is a sure sign of poor anticipation and reduced safety margins.

Braking shifts the balance of weight of the vehicle forward and makes steering more difficult. If you have to brake hard, try to do so when you're travelling in a straight line:

Remember, the greater the speed that you are travelling when you brake:
a. The more difficult it is to control the vehicle
b. The greater the distance you need to stop the vehicle
You should always try to consider
a. The safety and peace of mind of everyone concerned, including your passengers
b. Wear and tear on brakes, tyres and suspension
c. Following vehicles whose brakes might not be as powerful as yours.

Avoid braking on bends; braking on a bend can have serious consequences. The weight of the vehicle is thrown outwards as well as forwards. The front tyre on the outside of the curve will be over-loaded and the car could be thrown into a severe skid. Road surface conditions can have a big effect in these situations. Watch for uneven, loose or slippery surfaces.

Think well ahead to avoid the need for harsh, uncontrolled braking. You should never drive too fast or too close to the car in front of you. Other drivers might be affected by your actions. Always use your mirrors before braking and give yourself plenty of space.

Always consider:
a. Your own speed of reaction,
b. The mechanical condition of your car - brakes, steering and suspension
c. The type, condition and pressure of your tyres
d. The size and weight of your car and its load
e. The gradient of the road
f. Whether the road has a camber or bend
g. The weather conditions and visibility
h. The road surface. Is it smooth, rough, loose, wet, muddy or even covered with wet leaves, ice or snow?

Five rules for good braking:
a. Anticipate. Think and look well ahead
b. Know your own limitations and those of your vehicle
c. Give yourself plenty of time and distance to brake progressively
d. Take note of the state of the road and its surface
e. Avoid the risk of skidding, rather than trying to control it

If the car behind you is too close, don't brake suddenly as this could cause an accident, slow down gradually!

From Rob Morgan at Budgen Motors

Contract Hire Telford

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_David_Morgan



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Setting Up Your Car Before You Move Off

By Robert David Morgan

Before you set off on busy roads and in traffic, you should always master the basic techniques of starting, moving off and stopping. You must ensure that you have full control of your car at all times and to have this you need to have:
a. A good working knowledge of all the controls in your vehicle
b. Be able to co-ordinate both hand and feet controls together when needed
c. A good understanding of the highway code
d. A good level of respect for the needs of the other road users
e. A good basic knowledge to enable you to check your vehicle to make sure that everything is in the correct working order and the car is safe before setting off.

Starting to drive isn't just a matter of starting the engine and driving off. You should first of all check that your car is safe and ready for road use. There are a few everyday checks that you should get into a habit of checking before setting off:
1. Ensure that the windscreen, windows and mirrors are clean.
2. All the lights, including the indicators are working and if not replacing the dead bulbs (it is always a good idea to carry spare bulbs and fuses).
3. Always check that the brakes are working, never drive with fault brakes.

There are also some good periodic checks that you should get used to making; these checks are for both safety and good vehicle maintenance. Check and top up if necessary:
a. Engine oil
b. Water level in the radiator or the expansion tank
c. Brake fluid level
d. Battery; top up with distilled water if necessary (some batteries are maintenance free and don't need topping up)
e. Windscreen and rear window washer bottles

You should check your tyres and make sure that they are legal; they must have the correct amount of tread depth and should be free from dangerous cuts and defects, they should always be at the correct pressure, not only for safety but for fuel economy also.

How often you make these checks will depend on how much and often you drive. Consult your vehicles owner's manual. If you drive more often, you may need to check these items every day.
Always have your vehicle serviced regularly by a professional garage, your owner's manual should advise on when is best for your vehicle.

Once you have checked the items above, you check the following for the safety of you and your passengers, and also for other road users.

Every time you get into your vehicle, check that:
1. All doors are properly closed
2. Your driving seat is in the best position for you to see clearly in all directions, and reach all the controls comfortably
3. The head restraint is in the correct position
4. You and all your passengers have their seat belts on
5. Check the parking brake again and that the gear lever is in neutral (if you are in an automatic it should be in the position P or N)
6. Always check that you have enough fuel to get where you need to be, or that you can make it to a fuel station. It may sound silly, but before you set off make sure you know the controls and how they work, and also make sure that you know the size of your vehicle (width, height and weight) and always ensure you know if your vehicle is front, rear, or four-wheel drive and if you have ABS or not. This will ensure that you use the correct braking distance and handling for your car.

From Rob Morgan at Budgen Motors
Car Rental Shrewsbury

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_David_Morgan



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Buying A Used Car? Some Useful Tips

By Brianna W

Purchasing a used car is a smart decision to fulfill the personal riding needs, especially when you are short of the budget to buy a new one. Go through the following guidelines, and learn on how to purchase a well-kept vehicle at very reasonable rates.
With rising prices of vehicles, purchasing a used vehicle seems to be a wise decision. But another fact is that it could be a sort of gamble, as you are not aware of the vehicle problems like its engine issues, mileage and maintenance. But the deal can be a profitable venture if you buy the vehicle after a well-conducted research. Read on to get some useful guidelines for buying a used car, that could help you to possess a well-maintained car in very economical manner.

For few years, prices of automotive vehicles have been rising extensively. This has turned the people to buy used vehicles for their private riding needs. And no doubt, this move is reasonable, especially for those who find it difficult to purchase a new vehicle in absence of the required budget. While searching for a used vehicle, one can find a well-kept vehicle, in good condition, at cheaper prices. Additionally, a used vehicle gets lesser value depreciation compared to a newly purchased one. That is why, buying a used car has become very popular among the buyers.

Purchasing a repossessed vehicle is not a hard job, if you follow a pre-planned pattern. Before getting into a deal, you must be clear about your needs. It is highly essential to have the buying purpose clearly in your mind. Is it to meet your personal riding needs, transporting the goods for your official purpose, or something else? Just keep your needs in mind and select the vehicle accordingly.

Once you have selected the vehicle, the next thing you need to do is to set your budget. For any financial deal, it is beneficial to have a pre-decided budget. In any case, you can't spend more than what you have. So decide it in advance how much could you spend on the vehicle. However, some banks offer monetary assistance to put your financial worries at ease. When it comes to finding the deals for used vehicles, there are numerous means to search for. You can read auto-magazines or search over Internet. The second option is more reliable, and hassle-free. While searching over Internet, you could find some reputed car dealers offering a wide range of used vehicles for sale. Visit their websites and find the vehicle that suits your buying criteria perfectly.

Do as much research as you can and make a wise decision to select your car. Check out the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and go through its entire history. Take a test drive before finalizing the deal. Inquire about all parts of the car and check out their functionality. Walk from one end to another and check for any visible sign of dents and damages to the body. Apart from that, you must inquire on the engine issues, and steering problems of the vehicle. If you are buying a vehicle for the first time, you can take an expert with you while testing the vehicle. Do all the paper works to make your deal a legitimate one. Check out the documents containing warranty policy, billing details, car insurance, registration and transfer of ownership. Keeping all these things in mind, you can select the best deal for yourself. You can get a car that is profitable economically, and enjoyable to ride. It is therefore a wise decision to purchase the affordable used cars, especially in absence of appropriate budget to buy the new ones.

This article is written by an expert who is currently associated with http://CallingAllCars.com, a reliable website that provides a variety of deals for car max used cars and other used vehicles.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brianna_W



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