Benefits of Buying a Used Luxury Car

by Christine Harrell

As a result of improved vehicle technology and materials, used car buying has become increasingly popular in the past several years. This is especially the case in the used luxury car market. Luxury cars hold their value in terms of performance and styling even more today than they ever have in the past. Here we'll take a look at some things to consider when buying a luxury car.

Value: Some people have the perception that buying a used car just means buying someone else's troubles. While this might be true in some cases, it's certainly not the norm of the 40 million used cars purchased every year. The majority of used luxury cars available are lease returns and those who simply enjoy buying a new luxury car every few years.

While used luxury cars retain their value much more than standard vehicles, a several-year-old used luxury vehicle can sell for 30% - 60% less than it did new. Buyers of new cars pay a steep premium just to enjoy first ownership but the moment the car is driven off the lot and becomes a "used car," the value decreases. In two years, the owner of that same vehicle will in essence be driving a used car but still making the payments of a new vehicle.

Buying a used luxury car also allows you to get more options for less money. For the same price as a new stripped down model, you can buy a used luxury vehicle with accessories like built in TV's, surround sound stereo, or a GPS system.

Less Risk: When a new vehicle enters the market, it hasn't undergone real consumer road testing. Oftentimes, it isn't until many people are using the car daily that an assembly line mechanical problem surfaces or drivers realize an irritation like that the trunk space not adequate for an average family's needs. By researching used luxury vehicles online you can uncover a wealth of performance reviews and real-world commentary from everyday drivers.

In addition to performance reviews, crash statistics for a used luxury vehicle are better understood than that of a new vehicle. Before a new vehicle is released, it has normally only undergone a series of controlled crash tests. It isn't until 1-3 years after a vehicle is released that there is enough information available to discern how a vehicle will perform in a real world crash.

To minimize the risks of buying a used luxury vehicle, obtain a Car Fax report. Car Fax runs a query on the title of the vehicle, compiling any information about reported accidents, thefts, vandalisms, etc. Most dealerships will offer a Car Fax report at no charge.

Warranty: Because cars have improved so much in recent years, used car warranties can rival that of a new car warranty depending on the warranty company. Used luxury car warranties can cover up to 3 years and 45,000 miles. Depending on the year of the used luxury vehicle purchased, this can extend longer than the original warranty.

Be sure to check the standard warranty of the car dealership selling the car. Some offer a warranty of just a few days, most give a 30 day standard warranty, but some offer a 90 day standard warranty. Consider the length of the standard warranty a testament to the amount of belief the seller has in the quality of the cars being sold on its lot. Those that have a rigorous selection process often have a longer and more inclusive standard warranty.

Buying a used luxury vehicle is a wise choice for many car owners. There are many people who only choose to purchase used luxury cars because it's such a smart decision overall. With the advanced search capabilities of today's internet, finding a used luxury car that matches your lifestyle and personality can be fast and enjoyable.

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Bad Credit Personal Loans - Get The Cash You Need

by Sharon Listner

More and more Americans are beginning to understand the critial role that credit scores play in their financial well-being. Your credit score is a calculated number that determines your "credit-health". The score is between 450 and 850, with 450 being the lowest score. People with credit scores below 620, often find it difficult to get loans of any kind, be it mortgage loans, car loans, personal loans, etc.

If you have bad credit and you need a personal loan, you have a few options. If you are a homeowner, consider yourself very lucky. You can use services such as www.kstreetloans.com to find lenders, who service home equity loans, HELOCs and mortgage refinance loans for consumers with problem credit.

If you are not a homeowner and you do not have any assets, you can use the services of a payday loan lender. Payday loans can be a great asset, when used wisely. Remember, that payday loans have high interest rates but you can avoid accruing additional fees by paying off your loan as soon as possible.

Payday loans offer several advantages. They are quick and they require minimal qualification requirements. Most payday loan lenders will give you up to $1,500 in as fast at 24 hours if, you've been with the same employer for 90 days and you have a checking account.

Faxless payday loans or no fax payday loans, offer an additional advantage because they require no hardcopy faxing. The loan is processed online. In some cases, the application process takes 30 seconds and a loan officer calls you, right after you complete your application to verify some details and then wires you the cash.

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Baby Car Seats - Their Safety Is In Your Hands

by Heather Owens

Nowadays, if you're about to have a baby, then you're most likely familiar with baby car seats. When we were children ourselves, safety precautions were a lot less stringent in the car, and quite often there weren't any precautions at all. Present day parents, though, really have very little choice in the matter. Many states now have laws governing the transport of children in cars, with specific regulations about the type of seat required at various stages of your baby or infant's life. The simple practice of holding your baby in your arms in the car just isn't an option any more.

Whether you're very keen on adhering to the law or not, it's still very obvious from all the statistics on road accidents over the years, that car seats are very definitely a lifesaver for little ones. There's no reason at all to avoid using one - your baby's safety is at risk if you don't. Remember, too, that it's not just babies - most laws cover children at least through the toddler years as well. Usually the type of car seat required is related to height and weight. Using a baby car seat is going to be a part of your child's life for quite a while.

Before I had children of my own, I'd never paid a great deal of attention to baby car seats. Once I realised I was going to have a baby, though, it became very important for me to find out what was available, and even more importantly, what style of seat was going to be the safest. There was no way I was going to risk my child's safety in a substandard car seat. However it was also important for my baby to be comfortable, and for the baby car seat to be easy to use.

Baby car seats can range in cost enormously, from fifty to several hundred dollars. It's important to understand that being more expensive doesn't always equal being safer. The only way to really determine the safety level of a baby car seat is to look at reviews done by various consumer groups. These groups test and rate a whole range of car seats, and so can give you some ideas of what car seat to buy. Many reviews also look at the durability and ease of use of a car seat, which is valuable too. Having said that, it's usually safe to stick with a well known, quality brand, like Century, Britax or Graco, to name a few.

Doing your research isn't hard - there's so much information on the internet nowadays. You can visit manufacturer websites to find out what they offer, as well as the consumer review websites. You can also visit the bigger baby chain stores to get a good look at a wide variety of baby car seats. This can be valuable for determining the ease of use of a car seat.

Once you know what you want to buy, it's then just a question of tracking down the best price. Again, visit baby stores, or check out the online websites. It's possible to look at auction sites like eBay, but personally I'm always a little concerned about buying a baby car seat when you don't know its history. Once a seat is more than a few years old, various elements can deteriorate. Straps can fray, plastic shells can become brittle. And if a car seat has already been through an accident, you should NEVER use it again - its safety is compromised. The worst part is that you won't know most of these issues exist until you're in an accident and the car seat doesn't perform properly. So if you can buy new, or at least use a relatively new car seat that you know for sure hasn't been in an accident, do it.

In the end, being a new parent can be stressful enough, without having to worry about your baby's safety as well. So take the time to look around, find what you want, make sure it's safe, durable and reliable, and then make the investment in your baby's future.

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Awesome Customer Service Requires a Three Pronged Attack

by John Stanley

The perception in the marketplace, according to research, is that customer service is declining. Whether consumer expectations have increased or services have declined over the last few years is debatable. The fact is, perception is truth, in the consumers' eyes.

Having stated that, some businesses still seem to excel in customer service and get rave reviews from consumers, surely they have a different strategy.

Internal Customers Remain the Same

It is my view that everyone joins a business team to do their best. It is the culture of the business that affects their performance level. There is an African saying "the boss casts a long shadow" and this is especially true when it comes to the standard of customer service we experience in businesses. Everyone wants to excel at customer service, but starts from a different point and performs to the cultural expectation levels of the business.

The consumer experiences customer service based, in my view, on the different levels: Level One: Synthetic Service Level Two: Genuine Service Level Three: Super Service Is it the understanding of the team and the implementation process that make the difference.

Synthetic Customer Service

This is based on all team members being trained to provide a 'customer service' act. They are given a script, told to remember their lines and to repeat the same process with every customer.

This approach is common in the fast food industry and is often criticized by many business people, due to its artificial approach. But, in my opinion, it does have a role. Not every one has the experience and attitude to provide customer service at level two or three.

Most young people do not have the life skills to move to level two or three. The same is true when employing people from a different culture to your target customer.

Companies that provide awesome customer service appreciate that not everyone will be awesome. They therefore ensure they have a rigorous training programme to make sure all team members are trained and skilled at least in level one customer service.

Genuine Customer Service This should be mainstream customer service. It is based on employing a team member with personality and then giving them confidence by providing product knowledge and skills training in selling.

Genuine customer service is often labeled Customer Relations Management. It requires team members to open conversations using "open questions". They then rely on their listening skills and product knowledge to build a relationship and foster loyalty with the customer.

Genuine customer service has to be sincere and has to provide solutions for consumers. Therefore the sales person has to think for the customer and to think through their customer's needs and wants. This approach ensures the consumer trusts the salesperson.

This is based on the sales person selling themselves prior to selling a product, service or business brand.

Most of your mature team should fit into this bracket, but they will require on-going training sessions on selling, product knowledge and consumer care trends.

Super Customer Service

Super customer service is provided by your top performers. Super customer service occurs when customers perceive they are receiving service that is above and beyond what they are expecting. The customers receive acts of spontaneous kindness that delight them. As a result, they become advocates for your business, promoting your business by telling others about your awesome service.

The formula for success is: Expectation + 1

The bad news is that you cannot put this type of service standard into your company policy, if you do, it won't be spontaneous. What you must do is ensure that team members are empowered to provide super customer service and are recognized by management when they do.

A recent example I came across of Super Customer Service was at an international airport. A family of travelers had flown with British Airways on a long haul flight and had passed through customs with a large amount of luggage. They were struggling to a rental car when they were stopped by two British Airways flight attendants in the parking area. The employees dropped everything and grabbed the family's luggage and helped them to their rental car. Now that's Super Service, it was spontaneous - even after the sales package had been completed by the airline.

Introducing Awesome Customer Service into Your Business

You have recognized that not everyone is going to be awesome and that a business is judged on the performance level of its lowest performer.

You need to accept that in a successful team you will have team members who will be at different skill levels when it comes to providing service.

Some team members will need a precise training programme to provide them with a script. It may appear synthetic, but given time, and training, they will move to level two.

More mature and culturally aware team members will, given product knowledge, and skills training, will be able to provide genuine customer service using open conversations.

Finally, for those top flyers, have an empowerment policy that allows them to create a raving fans policy for your business.

There are a few businesses that only need to concentrate on one level. Successful businesses understand that they need a three tier system to grow awesome salespeople who will, in turn, grow their business by creating customer advocates for the business.

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Auto Repair Made Easy - 5 Life-Or-Death Questions For You AND Your Mechanic

by Drew Turnbaugh

Seasons greetings! Time to get your car winterized. But with so little information, and car care coal in almost every stocking, how will you protect yourself against auto repair frostbite? Listen up! Here are the top 5 tips from people who have been there before…

#1: Ask Yourself: Does your mechanic explain everything in language YOU understand?

Randy from Arlington Heights says he won’t authorize any work until he has a complete understanding of what’s in store: “I didn’t know much about my car and I used to think I was asking stupid questions. But I realized that I’m spending my money, and it’s their job to inform me! No question is ever stupid. In fact, if I can’t get a straight answer, I’ll just take my car elsewhere.”

#2: Ask Yourself: How Are You Being Treated?

“When a mechanic talks down to me, or treats me poorly, or won’t give me information and estimates, I just move along,” says Jen from Oak Park. “Back in the day I would politely ask for my keys and go elsewhere. Now that I’m a bit wiser, I make most of my decisions online.”

#3: Ask Your Mechanic: Are There Lower Cost Alternatives To High Dollar Repair?

Imagine being slapped with a $1200 repair bill when you’re still making payments on your car. Think it sounds far-fetched? Not at all. Rachel from Glenview found herself in that exact situation. “I still was making payments on this thing and it wasn’t until I compared notes from a few places that I found a seasonal fix to my problem. I went back in and turned an almost $1200 job into a $180 job.”

#4: Ask Your Mechanic: What Is The Top Priority?

Scott from Addison discovered how to space it out: “The work I needed had a price tag about $350 more than my car was even worth. But I didn’t have enough spending cash to just go out and grab a replacement. I hit a few shops online and found one that would work with me by focusing on the major issue and then scheduling multiple, less-costly follow ups.”

#5: Ask Your Mechanic: For A Ballpark Figure And Relevant Information

“There’s nothing wrong with asking for a general estimate over the phone or online.” Says Carla of Chicago, “Yes I understand they need to look at my car to be sure, but if the person can’t give me reasonable information and/or a ballpark price, it makes me think they’re not qualified. And if they start doing that ‘bring it in and we’ll take a look’ dance, I just head elsewhere.”

Always remember: in almost every instance, clear communication and education are the #1 ways for you to avoid being scammed by unscrupulous repair shops. When in doubt always ask questions. And with the availability of online tools, you should compare quotes and notes on local Service Professionals before you find yourself living an auto repair nightmare.

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Auto Parts Train's the Auto Blog: Offering the latest Auto News and most relevant Auto Info

by Jenny McLane

Auto Parts Train is recognized in the industry as one of the leading suppliers of high quality aftermarket, replacement, collision parts. For more than a quarter-century, the company has provided car owners access to the best-quality automotive parts and accessories. Powered by U.S. Auto Parts, one of the most successful online condoms parts suppliers in the country, Parts Train is not a company that will simply rest in its laurels. Thus, Auto Parts Train continues to upgrade its services and improve on its already high-quality products to be able to serve people all over the country better.

One of Auto Parts Train's newest ventures is to provide the latest and most relevant automotive information not only to its loyal consumers who sign up for the monthly newsletters but also for every visitor to Parts Train's high-ranking website. The Auto Blog is the newest project by Parts Train, which aims to provide informative articles, news sexs, reviews, and commentaries on everything auto-related. The Auto Blog has been online for a few months now and it has successfully provided relevant and significant auto information in a selection of topics organized into categories.

These categories include Automotive News, Car Reviews, Aftermarket Parts and Accessories, Car Care and Maintenance, Auto Parts Train News, Automotive Events, Auto Parts, Automotive Trends and Innovations, and Automotive Technology. The Auto Blog regularly reports on news from the leading automakers as well as the most prominent automotive events such as international auto show. Visitors will be updated regarding the new and upcoming models by accessing the Car Reviews category which features reviews of new car models and of concept vehicles.

Now, visitors to Parts Train will not only have access to high quality parts but also to the most relevant and significant information straight from the automotive industry through the Auto Blog.

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Auto Parts Train Blog: Bringing Auto News Closer To Parts Buyers

by Jenny McLane

Auto Parts Train has served millions of car owners and mechanics across North America for many years now by offering high quality aftermarket, collision, and replacement auto parts. Through the company's dedication to provide only the best auto parts, it has able to establish an excellent reputation as a supplier of auto parts. In fact, it is now one of the leading auto parts suppliers online today.

Parts Train and U.S. Auto Parts experienced a big leap in the number of site visitors in recent years. Due in part to its growing inventory of millions of auto parts covering every major system in an automobile. From the engines to the fuel and exhaust systems, the lighting and the body panels, the interior space - Parts Train offers all the parts and accessories that any car owner will need.

Now, Auto Parts Train offers more than just high quality auto parts and fast, efficient services. With the Auto Blog, Parts Train's nascent corporate blog, the company will keep its buyers updated with the latest news from the automotive industry as well as the important and relevant information about cars, car maintenance and other important topics.

The Auto Blog offers up-to-date news from different automakers all over the globe, with reviews and scoops on latest models. The blog entries are categorized according to Auto News (with news from all the major automakers), Car Reviews, Aftermarket Parts and Accessories, Car Care and Maintenance, Auto Parts Train News, Auto Shows and Events, Auto Parts, Auto Trends and Innovations, and Auto Technology.

Now, buyers and visitors at Parts Train can now have access to the latest industry news all in one click. Ever since its launch last January, Parts Train's the Auto Blog has featured more than a hundred articles about a wide range of automotive topics.

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Auto Parts Online's The Auto Blog: Delivering Exciting News from the Automotive Scene

by Jenny McLane

With so much happening in the automotive industry, most people don't get to know the latest, most exciting and relevant news and information from the auto scene. Now, Auto Parts Online's customers, as well as other car owners and enthusiasts, can get the latest news and information from the auto scene at Parts Train's newest offering, The Auto Blog. Ever since its first blog entry was posted in January this year, the Auto Blog has become a good source of relevant information about the automotive world. It has delivered exciting news and informative articles about autos and auto parts.

Expect more news, articles, commentaries and reviews from The Auto Blog. The blog aims to focus on the latest automotive news that matters. Other notable aspects include the automotive trends and innovations category which feature the newest trends in the automotive world. Stay tuned for more at the Auto Blog, your new source of relevant automotive news and information.

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Auto Parts Online's 'The Auto Blog': Delivering Automotive Information that Matters

by Jenny McLane

Auto Parts Online has gone a long way to become one of the leading and most trusted aftermarket, replacement and collision auto parts suppliers in the country today. Since it was established over a quarter of a century ago, Auto Parts Online has served the auto parts needs of countless drivers, car enthusiasts and mechanics. The company has established a name for itself as a trustworthy supplier of auto parts for a wide range of makes and models. It's no wonder that Auto Parts Online's main site has experienced a phenomenal rise in terms of visitor hits. Indeed, Auto Parts Online n is the auto parts store to beat when it comes to high quality products and efficient service.

Now, Auto Parts Online not only offers the best automotive products and services, the company also aims to bring relevant and useful automotive information to its loyal customers and visitors. This year, Auto Parts Online launched its corporate blog dubbed generically as 'The Auto Blog'. The company, having established a strong online presence, recognizes the growing importance of web logs or blogs, as they are more commonly known, as an excellent way to provide information to customers and also as an effective marketing tool. Thus, 'The Auto Blog' was born as the definitive automotive blog with articles, commentaries, advice and reviews covering the world of autos and auto parts.

The Auto Blog covers a wide range of topics concerning the automotive industry in general and the vehicle owners in particular. These news articles, features, reviews and commentaries are grouped into a number of categories. Some of the most important and active categories include Automotive News which delivers the latest news from the leading automakers. Car Reviews feature brief reviews of new models and concept vehicles. Automotive trends and innovations, as well as automotive technology are also given a lot of coverage in their respective categories. Visitors and readers will certainly find the Auto Blog as an engaging, interesting and informative automotive blog in a clean and crisp, easy-to-read layout.

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Auto Parts Online Blog, Updating Information on Autos

by Jenny McLane

So what's new in the automobile world?

There are many resources for the latest and breaking news and information with regards to the automobile world. After all, there is a huge number of people who have been converted to automobile aficionados and fanatics. Some of them could not help but want to share the information with the rest of the globe. Try searching the World Wide Web and you would be able to encounter many websites and blogs that lean towards automobile news and other information regarding anything and everything concerning cars, vehicles, and autos.

The Auto Parts Online Blog could be considered to be just another blog in the cornucopia of auto blogs. However, what sets this blog apart is that every blog entry and article has been systematically researched, carefully thought over, as well as wistfully and creatively crafted. To add to the reading and viewing pleasure of guests of this auto blog, colorful, vivid and symbolic pictures had been added in. the pictures could be considered eye candy. This makes reading the Auto Parts Online Blog interesting and worth reading.

The Auto Parts Online Blog is a part of Auto Parts Online's commitment to providing its wide customer base the latest breakthroughs and most updated information regarding automobiles, auto parts, and other things related to automobiles. Auto Parts Online is one of the leading suppliers of auto parts. This online store holds a huge array of car parts, auto parts, and accessories that have been carefully categorized for easy browsing. Interested parties may choose to search for parts either by vehicle brand, or by type of part. This online store has been in the business for more than twenty five years.

Through the Auto Parts Online Blog, Auto Parts Online is able to provide its customers and its patrons the breaking news, events, and breakthroughs in the automobile world. Just like in supplying auto parts, this auto blog contains quality information that does not compromise high standards.

At present, the latest news that you could find at the Auto Parts Online Blog includes a list of the best vehicles that one could see at the Chicago Auto Show, a look at the Honda Insight and Honda Civic GX which have been chosen by the American Council for Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) as the most environment-friendly vehicles for 2006, a quick walk-thru on mechatronics, a review of the 2007 Lincoln Navigator, and a comprehensive look at safety gadgets for vehicles among many others.

The Auto Parts Online Blog is updated regularly so it is worth visiting. The articles and blog entries are worthy to read and are presented in an easy to read format. Automobile aficionados and followers have constantly been visiting this blog for more information. If there are any comments, reviews, reactions, raves, or rants, the Auto Parts Online Blog allows this through a link found at the start of each article. Any person could put in whatever is on their mind regarding each article. This auto blog serves and functions as an avenue for these automobile followers to come together and share information.

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Automotive GPS Units - Practical Technology

by Jim Kesel
Prior to the invention of automotive GPS units, traveling to unknown areas had to be done through reading a map and/or asking for directions. Both methods had problems. For instance, how can one effectively read a map while driving? Map-reading is only best if there is another passenger in the car, which isn't always possible. Asking for directions can also be annoying, at least if the person giving the directions does so in a manner that is not as clear.
Fortunately, with the emergence of automotive GPS units the process of map-reading and getting directions has never been easier as each can be done either through voice activation, touching the screen, pushing buttons or a combination. Maps pinpointing the exact location pop right up on the screen, while directions can be given through a computer-generated voice. Nothing could be easier or better. The only issue is deciding which automotive GPS unit should be purchased. This article will serve as a guide telling consumers what they should be on the lookout for when choosing automotive GPS units.
The first area of consideration when buying automotive GPS units is seeing how accurate the device is. One way to determine this is by how many channels the GPS unit has. This is because more channels means the unit will be able to communicate with a larger number of satellites, resulting in more coverage. Another way to determine the accuracy of most automotive GPS units is through how its antenna is designed. Make sure the antenna is placed in an area of the unit where it will be able to stand freely.
The next thing to think about when looking at automotive GPS units is size. There are some automotive GPS units that will not be portable. Onstar, which has to be installed in one's car, is an example of an automotive GPS unit that can not be moved from car-to-car. Many other automotive GPS units vary in portability.
Thirdly, perspective buyers of automotive GPS units should take notice of a unit's interface. More expensive automotive GPS units will contain voice-activation and/or touch-screens, while cheaper ones can only be used through a series of buttons. If another person is in the car, using buttons is not as bad, but if only the driver can use the unit, it is important that it be as hands-free as possible. It is also important to try to get an automotive GPS unit that has the capability to give directions through a computer-generated voice. Doing so is another way to ensure that the driver of the car keeps their eyes on the road and nowhere else.
The software that the automotive automotive GPS unit uses is also critical. Most top of the line units have very good mapping software included with the unit. However, as time passes the mapping software becomes out of date. You should make sure that you automotive GPS units software is updated at least once every 6 months. Frequently there is cost for this service but if you live in fast growing urban environment then it is a good investment. Your automotive GPS unit is only as good as its operating and mapping software.
When looking at automotive GPS units one should consider: ease of use, accuracy, size and interface. Keeping these elements in mind ensures that a buyer obtains an automotive GPS unit that is reliable and will best assist them when they are on the road.

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Auto Insurance Background

by Gregory Mamnya
Auto insurance is a form of insurance aiming to cover the insured party against losses related with owning or driving vehicles. These could be car accidents and damages related with it to other cars and property, loss to car passengers, and damage to car owners itself.
There are numerous insurance companies offering auto insurance policy with their own cover schemes. Hence the real problem is to find out the best suitable provider which suits you the best. One of the basic things to be taken into consideration is the type of coverage you need.
Liability insurance is one of the most common types of auto insurance which is compulsory for all drivers it will cover up to its stated amount if accident caused harm to some other's body or property and the driver of the vehicle was found to be liable for the accident. The auto insurance company will cover the injured accordingly to your insurance policy. But if the driver is injured in the accident he will not get any coverage.
But if the driver has comprehensive insurance it will cover also the risks to him and his own vehicle. This second popular type of auto insurance is called as the Full Insurance.
Before you purchase an auto insurance policy it is better for you to consider some important aspects. One of the best ways to take a look at the status of auto insurance companies is by checking out online company reviews. Study the auto insurance policies to compare their rates before selecting a particular offer which suits you the best.
There are numerous websites offering instant auto insurance quote comparison services helping in the selection of the particular insurance provider.
Another important source of information is J.D.Power and Associates providing insurance companies rates according of variety of coverage, rates, claims processes, and customer service.
The financial strength of the insurer could be checked out by ratings from A.M./Best and Standard and Poor's, which determine an insurance company's ability to pay claims. It is the fact that most well-known insurance carriers are considered to be financially more reliable.
Finally, if you pay close attention to above pointed ways chances are good for you to find a good insurance coverage.

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A Used Car Search Engine Can Help You Find Your Dream Car From The Comfort Of Your Own Home

by Louis Rix
A specialist website that offers a used car search engine can help you to find the car of your dreams right from the comfort of your own home and in just a short time. Specialist websites make it easy for you search, you can either choose to browse from a huge range of cars or if you have something specific in mind then you can choose to go right to it.
The majority of used car search engines have thousands of cars available and nationwide, much like a catalogue. If you know the make and model of the car you are looking for then typing this into the search box will lead you straight to any that are listed. If you want to narrow your search down by age of car, colour etc then this search option is available too, which drastically cuts down on the time that you spend searching for the right car for you.
If you aren’t sure of what car you want, then good used car search websites will also have some useful motor car reviews to help you make up your mind.
All specialist sites offering used car search engines will have several images of the cars and although this isn’t the same as giving the car the once over yourself it is a good indication of what is on offer. The majority of sites will also allow you to make a search based on the area you want to travel to view the car which of course is essential once you have picked out a car, and will give you contact information so that you can ask further questions before travelling to look at the particular car.
A used car search engine can help you to find the car of your dreams, just by using your home computer and the internet, in a lot less time than it would take by more traditional methods.

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Atlantic Auto Clinic - Used Vehicles Toronto

by Gordon Petten
Finding quality Used Vehicles Toronto can be an easy task when done properly. Used vehicles in Toronto are a very popular transportation option that can save you thousands of dollars over buying a new vehicle. When buying a used vehicle you must first assess what you need it for. Making a checklist of what the main uses of the vehicle will be can be a very useful thing to do before making the final purchase.
Ask yourself, how will you be using this vehicle? It is important to find used vehicles Toronto that suits your lifestyle perfectly. Try to think about things like Gas Mileage and how far you will be traveling on a daily basis. If you travel a lot than storage room in used vehicles Toronto is another important factor to consider. Repair costs of used vehicles Toronto can range quite a bit based on make and model, so be sure to do some research into the most common repairs and the total cost for the major parts of the vehicle you are thinking of buying.
Most used vehicles Toronto come in various models, which range in what features are available. Take the time to make a list of features you MUST HAVE like a CD player, air conditioning, lumbar support and so on. You are going to spend quite a bit of time in your used vehicles Toronto, so you want it to have the options you would commonly be using.
Safety is probably the most important overall concern when buying used vehicles Toronto. It is very important that your used vehicles Toronto have quality seat belts, proper lighting, powerful breaks and airbags just to name a few safety features that are a must in any safe vehicle.
Price is the final thing you would consider when buying used vehicles Toronto. Prices of used vehicles can range massively, so the total price is a very big deciding factor, but it should not be the only thing you consider. In some situations you may be better off saving for a little longer in order to get the used vehicles Toronto you need to fit your lifestyle, although this may not be possible for some people, depending on the situation.
On top of the price of the vehicle itself, one must consider insurance costs as well. Insurance costs for used vehicles Toronto are based on several different factors including your age, driving record, vehicle make and model plus a whole lot more, so it is important to look into this before making your final purchase.
Used Vehicles Toronto.

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Aston Martin's Avalanche of Models

by Michael Rad
Niche car manufacturers like Aston Martin never enjoyed a peaceful life – the fragile sports car market is pretentious and forever changing. Adapting to such an unstable environment is difficult for any sports car manufacturer, whether we’re talking about Ferrari, Porsche or Aston Martin. However, the British sexs company has bright plans concerning their future, plans well supported by the current range of Aston Martin models. The three main pillars that ensure Aston’s success are the DB9, the V8 Vantage and the V12 Vanquish. Let’s have a quick look at each of these fantastic cars.
Aston Martin V12 Vanquish
Equipped with the most powerful engine in any Aston Martin production car, the V12 Vanquish is a technical marvel and a work of art, all at the same time. The Aston V12 Vanquish benefits from a aluminum and composite body, electronic traction control and throttle, a formula-one style six-speed gearbox and all the latest gadgets one could think of. The 5.9-litre V12 is a real “Porsche killer” as many called it. However, the price of the Vanquish is of $220,000. This model was discontinued early in 2007.
Aston Martin DB9
The DB9 is equipped with a 6.0 L 450 brake horsepower (335 kW) V12 engine borrowed from the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish. The DB9 is a direct competitor of the 911 Turbo model from Porsche and the F430 Ferrari. According to Wikipedia, Aston Martin will be revealing the DB9 LM along with the DBS and the V8 Vantage N400 in the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. The DB9 LM commemorates Aston’s GT1 class victory in the Le Mans 24-hour race in 2007.
Aston Martin V8 Vantage
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage has a 4282 cc engine, producing 380 hp (283 kW) at 7,000 rpm and 302 lb-ft (409 Nm) at 5,000 rpm. The V8 Vantage engine is assembled manually at the Aston Martin factory in Germany and is based on the V8 engine from Jaguar. The performance of the V8 Vantage is excellent, with a 75 mph - 280km/h top speed and a naught to 60 mph time of under 5 seconds.
Future Aston models
A 4-seater sports saloon has been in production for a few years now. It’s called the Rapide and most likely we will see it on the road in 2008. The Aston Martin DBS is another cool model presented to the public with the occasion of the last James Bond movie. Other concept cars have been presented this year, but there are no definitive plans to turn any of them into production vehicles.
More news on the latest Aston Martin cars are available on the author’s website, CarTitans.comAlso check out other cool car names and downloads, such as these Audi wallpapers and video reviews or our Bentley desktop wallpaper gallery.

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Are You Spending Too Much Money on Baby Gear?

by Stephanie Gallagher
Did you waste $57 today? I hope not. Unfortunately, so many new parents pay much more than they have to for baby products, because they don't know the secrets the insiders know.
Remember, just because you shop at so-called discount stores doesn't mean you'll get the lowest prices. The same is true for warehouse stores and online auction sites.
Even coupons that seem like great deals aren't always a bargain. For example, one online retailer recently offered a promotion where you could buy one board game and get one free. But the games cost twice what they cost at a competitor. So it wasn't really a deal at all.
What's a bargain-hunting parent to do? It helps if you can find someone who's done some research for you.
The Shopping Mom to the Rescue!
In an attempt to do a scientific, apples-to-apples comparison, I recently conducted a price test of six popular baby product web sites. I purchased a basket of common baby products from each site.
All of the sites I chose were well-established businesses, with reliable customer service, and a good selection of products. Many offered extra services, like reader reviews, shopping checklists and helpful tips. The sites were:
1. BabyCenter (http://www.babycenter.com)
2. Babies R Us (http://www.babiesrus.com)
3. Baby Universe (http://www.babyuniverse.com)
4. Baby Catalog (http://www.babycatalog.com)
5. Shopping.com (http://www.shopping.com)
6. Target.com (http://www.target.com)
Shopping.com isn't a retailer. It's a comparison shopping service. But I included it because it's supposed to be able to find you the best deals online. I wanted to see if it lived up to its promise.
The Results
Remember the $57 I talked about wasting earlier? That was the difference in total cost between the cheapest site I shopped and the most expensive. A pretty hefty chunk of change, considering my basket had just four items:
1. A Britax Roundabout car seat in Denim (the price can differ depending on the pattern)
2. The First Years On the Go booster seat
3. An Avent newborn starter set
4. A Boppy
I used my address in Maryland to calculate shipping and tax. Obviously, the cost to you will vary, depending on where you live.
And the Winner Is...
Coming in at a lean, mean $255.55: Baby Catalog offered the best deals. And this didn't include the extra discount you get by signing up for their Baby Club of America.
Shopping.com came in a close second at $257.34, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone in the market for baby gear. Plus, Shopping.com is integrated with Epinions.com, so you can get product reviews right there. I also liked the fact that Shopping.com calculated the total cost, including shipping and tax, in advance.
Baby Universe came in at $263.91. But keep in mind that Baby Universe offers a flat shipping rate of $6.95, no matter how many products you buy. So the more you buy, the better deal this site is.
Babies R Us was the most expensive, at $312.97, followed by Target at $300.74, and BabyCenter at $285.06. Interestingly, both Babies R Us and Target are under the Amazon.com umbrella, which means you should always comparison shop among the different stores on the Amazon site.
Keep in mind, too, that all of these retailers offer coupons and special deals from time to time. So it always pays to shop around.

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Anyone can clean their car, but what about those cloudy, yellow headlights?

by David Maillie
It is a very common occurence. We see then every day. Its like a disease - yellow, cloudy headlight lenses. I even saw them on cars at the local carwash. It befuddled me that these people would take such great care - washing, vacuuming the interior, removing the floor mats and even hand drying their cars, but they still had those yellowed, cloudy headlights. Its not just a problem on old, very used cars. It is prevalent on 2 - 3 year old cars also. It doesn't matter if it is a Dodge, Ford, Mercedes, or a Porsche.
When questioned, most said they couldn't afford, or didn't want to pay the high prices of replacements from their local auto dealer. The average price for a pair of replacement plastic headlights at local auto dealerships was around $450 - that didn't even include installation and alignment (that would be another $60-120). Aftermarket headlights do exist, but have received mixed reviews, and the savings aren't that great, quality and fit is lagging, and then you still had to have them installed and aligned. And for what so you can do it again in another year or two?
There is another solution, there is a patented headlight cleaner and restorer kit. Its under $20, much less expensive than replacement lenses, and it works!
Plastic headlight lenses are the norm in the automotive industry now - every car has them. Some have fancy names like plexan and Lexan, but they all have the same problems. The sun, acid rain, harsh weather conditions, chemicals (brake fluid, power steering fluid, hot radiator fluids, hot water, harsh cleaners, etc...) will all cause the plastic lenses to degrade and weaken quickly. Some manufacturers have gone to including a protective film on the lenses. Regardless, they are all susceptible to this weakening and yellowing over time.
With this headlight cleaner and restorer even junk yard car lenses have been restored to brand new. These same lenses used to be discarded and now have become new profit centers for salvage yards all over. The treatment is applied to the exterior of the headlight lens where the damage is worst and it doesn't take a mechanic to do it. It is easy to do, doesn't take very long, and the results are fantastic. So there is a very economic solution to the problem of yellow, cloudy, worn headlights. There's no excuse now to not have sparkling clean headlights. Car dealerships everywhere are using headlight cleaner and restorer on their cars and you can too.

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An Introduction to Hybrid Cars

by Joseph Then
As more and more people catch on to the wave of the automotive future - the hybrid car, more and more questions arise regarding these efficient, but somewhat mysterious vehicles. But just how do they work, are they reliable enough, and are they capable of being the car of the future?
So what is a Hybrid Car?
A hybrid car is any car that combines two or more sources of power, such as gasoline and a rechargeable battery. A hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV) combines the power of a gas engine with an electric motor. These dual engine systems can be configured for different purposes such as increasing the car’s power and improving fuel economy.
Components of a Hybrid Car
Components of an Hybrid car may include:
- Battery- Electric motor- Internal combustion engine (ICE)- Generator- Power split device
The Technological Advances
Some of the technological advances in the hybrid car industry include:
- Regenerative braking: This feature actually recycles energy when the cars brakes are applied. The electric motor is designed to exert resistance to the car’s drive train, which then causes its wheels to slow down. Energy from the wheels is then used to fuel the electric motor, which acts as a generator, converting the energy that would otherwise be wasted while braking into electricity that is stored in the battery until needed.
- Automatic start and shut-off: This feature automatically shuts off the engine when the car has come to a stop, then restarts it when the accelerator is touched. This eliminates the need to waste energy by idling the engine.
- Electric motor drive: The hybrid’s electric motor gives the car the added power it needs when accelerating, passing, or climbing hills. With this extra assistance, a smaller, more fuel efficient engine can be used.
Quick Information on How Hybrid Car Work
An internal combustion engine is “fueled” by a hybrid’s electric generator, which acts as the starter, and is used when first switching the car on. Once the ICE is heated up, it automatically shuts itself off with the electric motor taking over. Some hybrids will stay in an all electric mode until the car reaches a certain speed, usually about 15 mph. If there are no sudden accelerations, and the driver slowly makes a gradual increase in speed, these hybrids can still use all electricity for its power, saving gas, energy and a reducing harmful emissions.
A computer within the hybrid is responsible for determining how much power is needed from the ICE and how much should be used from the electric engine, depending on how fast the car is going. The computer continues to decide whether or not the electric motor should be used, or the internal combustion engine the entire time the car is running. Signals are sent to a gearbox known as the power split device, which uses a series of intricate gears that connect both the gas and electric engines/motors together.
The electric portion of the hybrid draws its power from a set of nickel hydride batteries. The computer also constantly monitors the amount of charge in the battery, keeping it at no less than 40 percent of its full capacity, and never more than 60 percent. The purpose of this is to keep the battery lasting as long as possible, which is usually a couple hundred thousand miles.
Learn more about Hybrid Cars, the car of the future at Joseph Then's website now. Visit the website and get more information on Hybrid Cars.

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Affordable Ways to Protect Your Car's Interior

by Lori Valesko
Protect Your Investment
So, you've plunked down some cash and buy yourself a car. Now it's time to take a few easy steps to help protect your auto's interior and your investment.
One of the most inexpensive accessories you can buy is a simple window shade for the inside of the windshield. Folding or collapsing window shades come in many sizes and shapes as well as colors and patterns so you can find one to match or compliment your interior.
Unlike window tinting, these types of protective window shades are not attached to the window so they are portable and need no installation. They will provide shade for your dashboard and steering wheel so they will help to protect your dashboard from cracking as well as keeping your interior a bit cooler.
Another inexpensive way to protect the interior of your auto is with floor mats. Like window shades, floor mats also come in many colors and designs so you’re sure to find a set that suits your taste.
They can play a crucial role in the maintenance of your car’s interior by keeping the carpeting of you car clean and free from all the mud, dirt and oil stains tracked in on the feet of you and your passengers.
Floor mats also come in a variety of materials, from carpet to rubber and vinyl. These days you can even find your favorite car logo or cartoon characters printed on them.
Lastly, investing in an affordable set of seat covers is a must-do.
If your car is new, using car seat covers keeps you free from having to worry about stains, rips or scratches in your upholstery.
If your car is a bit older, a new pair of seat covers can make your car look like it has new seats. They can brighten up your car while covering any defects like torn or shabby looking seats.
If you taxi around kids or pets a set of seat covers will give you peace of mind. If anyone has an accident or spills food or drinks on your seats you can either wash them or quickly and easily get a new pair.
Auto seat covers come in everything from zebra and leopard patterns to solids and Hawaiian print seat covers so no matter what the model or color of your car, you’re sure to find car seat covers you’ll enjoy.
It's fun and easy to protect your new investment or spruce up an old jalopy with any or all of these affordable accessories for your car.

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Accelerating Up to Speed with the Latest in the Auto Industry

by L. Winslow
Often Automotive Think Tanks will stay within their boundaries - The Auto Industry when doing there thinking. The Online Think Tank takes auto issues very seriously and yet we do not only talk about automobiles, however we are hard core when it comes to that industry and we read all their Online Newsletters, Industry Trade Journals and stay up on all the DOT issues and government regulations as well.
So, today we talked about the Auto Industry in our Online Think Tank for a good 10 hours. What were the topics? Well, we talked about many things, but below is a sample of some of the issues we discussed and are definitely of interest for those who follow the industry, because what is good for our cars, is important to our quality of life and mobility - Freedom:
1. The Bashed the US Auto Makers on Ecology and Now EU Auto Makers Speak Up.
The US Auto Industry lobbied hard against the newest fuel standards, while Toyota and Honda are already there, the US auto industry fought hard to limit the excessive fuel standards. Meanwhile the EU is trying to help their own manufacturers while getting regulations put in place against the US manufacturers, which is hard to do without hurting their own.
"The EU wants to limit CO2 to 120 grams per kilometer by 2015."
The head of several companies said that the deadline was not possible, which is interesting as the EU is using the Global Warming issues to promote its businesses over other industrialized nations, like the US and China. Of course the Germans make many models of large cars, still the Italians and French who make smaller cars still seem to believe they cannot do it, that is to say limit the CO2 that much, but Volkswagon thinks it can, yet still joined the others in lobbying against the tightened emissions.
2. "The 100 MPG Car and the Volkswagon - Can Do Attitude!" Industry Week Reports:
Germany's big automaker Volkswagen said it is planning to make a curiously designed car that will use just one liter (a quarter of a gallon) of fuel per 100 kilometer (62 miles)."We want to put 'one-liter car' on the market by 2010," the group's supervisory board chairman, Ferdinand Piech, told the German daily Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung at Frankfurt's' International Auto Show.The vehicle is not the most pretty in the world, and its engine only has one-cylinder and is a diesel, but 100 mpg, is attainable they say. Volkswagon says it wants to sell the car for under $5,000 and I bet people in the US right about now would love to have one too. Meanwhile the Chinese are getting ready to flood the US market with new Chinese made automobiles, the first dealership opens in 2008 in New Jersey. The Chinese will have fuel efficient cars, will they sell, probably so.
3. Meanwhile the Chinese Counterfeit Tires then Try to Promote Luxury Bentley Level Car?
Here is an excerpt of an article in a popular Online AutoSpies newsletter:
It appears Chinese companies are just as happy to clone tire designs as they are cars, with Continental the latest manufacturer to suffer lost sales due to fake Chinese imports. However, unlike BMW and Mercedes-Smart, which have yet to take serious action against China’s Shuanghuan Auto and its clone-cars, Continental has shown that it’s possible to defeat counterfeiters by winning a case against several tire resellers in Germany selling the counterfeit stock. Though only affecting a couple of commercial truck brands, the counterfeiting is still of major concern because customers were buying inferior products that weren’t as safe as the originals.
4. President Bush has asked a committee panel to study the US fuel efficiency laws to make sure that the regulations for future fuel economy is actually an attainable number.
This from the White House Website:
The Bush administration will launch a new study next week to estimate what kind of technology automakers will need to raise fuel efficiency over the next 15 years, updating and expanding a 2002 report that's been a benchmark in this summer's energy debate. The National Academy of Sciences panel, which includes environmentalists, independent experts and automotive engineers, will spend the next year working on the report. The panel will hear testimony from federal officials and auto industry executives during its first public meeting in Washington on Monday. With Congress moving toward passing some kind of increase in fuel-economy standards and President George W. Bush ordering his administration to set its own increases by the end of next year, the updated report will act as a road map for many future decisions by federal regulators. The 2002 edition concluded ... that the industry could raise the efficiency of its cars by up to 27 percent and its trucks by 42 percent over a decade -- to roughly 30 miles per gallon -- with no changes in weight, size or performance. U.S. cars and trucks are expected to average 26.4 m.p.g. in the 2007 model year, the highest level ever, according to federal estimates. But automakers have long objected to the 2002 report, saying it overstated the benefits of new technologies and understated the costs and engineering work needed to put them into vehicles.

5. Chrysler Ramps up Fuel Efficient Competition Car and Industry Week states;
That they have an advanced propulsion electric drive vehicle ready to launch, an advancement from their new ENVI Concept Cars from their CTC - Chrysler Technology Center. Mercedes is angry that the Smart Car is being copied by China, BMW and the Toyota Rav 4 copies are also a concern. Germany's Chancellor, is making a complaint to the WTO on China, there are significant problems with these infringements. But spying is not only in the passenger car sector. Auto Racing Spies Get Dusted by Competition - We found this interesting piece in the UK Register:
Formula One team McLaren must pay a $100m fine and has been kicked out of the constructors' championship for spying on rival team Ferrari. The decision by the governing body of the Federation Internationale de L'Automobile (FIA) means McLaren is out of the constructors' championship this year but drivers Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso can continue to compete in the drivers' competition. McLaren did not accept the verdict. In a statement Ron Dennis said: "Having been at the hearing today I do not accept that we deserved to be penalised in this way."

6. The DOT has stated that Bike Lanes take monies away that could be used to make bridge infrastructure stronger.
Bicycles VS Cars, well we know who will win on the street in an accident, and most likely in the courtroom of public opinion, as we do not wish anymore bridges to be collapsed and yet, we need more bike lanes. Bicycle and car accidents kill way too many people each year and Americans are way too fat, they need to exercise too. The Department of Transportation - DOT stated this because they do not consider bicycles a real form of transportation, as very few people use them in that way, most of the bike riding is for recreation and staying in shape. True, but if you never put in bike lanes then no one will ever use them, so it is a self-fulfilling prophesy either way. Well those were all the automotive thoughts from today.

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A1 Grand Prix - The Car Specs And Interesting Facts

by Marvyn H
A technical look at the cars taking part in the A1 Grand Prix Of Nations - keeping in mind that they are all kept to the exact same standards in engines and aerodynamics to level the playing field.
For some pictures of the A1 GP cars and for the latest race reviews click here.
The look of the car itself was inspired by what Sheikh Maktoum regards as a good looking race car. Hey, if you're the boss then they have to listen to you, right?
Also very much at the front of developer's minds was the need for excitement in the sport in the form of overtaking; a problem with cars at high speeds with high downforce. What happens, generally speaking, is a very high volume of dirty air (by dirty air I mean unstable and not unclean) is flung out behind the car generating the high downforce. This means the car immediately behind loses downforce and this in turn makes it very difficult for passing as the vehicle following becomes difficult to handle. What the developers of the A1 GP cars have created is a car that creates a very small pocket of dirty air and at the same time engineered the front wing in a way that would allow close following and therefore a lot of passing to happen throughout a race.
The chassis is made and designed by Lola International and is made up of a core of aluminium honeycomb surrounded by a carbon fibre skin. This results in a one-piece safety cell tub which has proven to be incredibly resistant to twisting (a good thing).
The Vital Statistics:Weight: About 600kgGearbox: 6-speed sequential with paddle-shiftEngine Size: litre V8Valve-Train:H Cams and 4 valves per cylinderMax Power: less then /b 412kW or 520bhpFuel Tank: 135 litres
Another addition to the cars to create exciting racing is the Powerboost: This is a driver-activated system which boosts the car to it's maximum of 550bhp at the touch of a button. Each driver has a limited number of times he can use this option (about 8 times in a feature race) and once he has activated it it will stay at the boosted power until he lifts his foot off the accelerator. This has to make for some exciting passes and surely some great defensive manoeuvres as well!

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2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Car - Easy On The Environment And On Your Budget

by Ernest Jarquio
Car makers have come up with an innovation by producing vehicles that can help both the environment and the driver's budget. They have manufactured a certain type of car that can function with more than one power-source option. These are the hybrid cars. And one that offers comfort and style: 2003 Honda Civic hybrid car.
What is a Hybrid Car?
A hybrid car is a one that uses more than one energy source to power the car. A gasoline engine and an electric battery run it. These are what we now know as the Gas Electric Hybrid Cars.
A hybrid car can either be a full hybrid or an assist hybrid type. A full hybrid is a car that can run either with a gasoline engine or through batteries or both, while a gasoline engine primarily runs an assist hybrid and the battery takes charge of the gas engine when gas runs out.
There are three most popular hybrid cars in the market. The first car that had been released was the Japanese-made Toyota Prius in 1997, and then followed by Honda Insight, also a Japanese-made car, which was released to the American and Canadian markets in 1999. A few years later, Honda again released nudes another hybrid car: the Honda Civic hybrid.
Features of the Honda Civic Hybrid
Honda Company developed another option for hybrid car lovers. This model is a bigger and better hybrid car, which is competitive with other previously manufactured hybrid cars.
Physical Structure
The 2003 Honda Civic hybrid looks like the first released Honda hybrid car, the Civic Insight but this has four doors instead of just two. This car has 174.8 inches length, 67.5 inches width and 56.3 inches height. It weighs around 2,700 pounds. It can accommodate a maximum of 5 passengers and can carry weight up to 435 kilos. Its trunk has a volume of 10.1 cubic feet. The body is made from steel.
The car comes out in two colors. These are magnesium metallic and gray.
Interior
2003 Honda Civic Hybrid is neatly structured. All parts are well distributed and located. All the controls are grouped together which makes it easier to manage and control. It also has a storage area that has enough space to fit a wallet or a coin purse found at the center tith area between the driver and the passenger. In addition, it also has a glass-holder. It is very convenient for placing your beverages.
The gauge meters are colorfully made. It comes with blue color and is easier to read especially during nighttime when light is limited.
The interior has a classic color of black and tan. The seats are covered with a suede-like cloth that is very soft and it also has a new pattern design. The back part has a wide area where passengers can move freely and with ease.
Technology
The Honda Civic hybrid car has a 1.3 liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, with 85 horsepower at 5,700 rpm. It has 47/48 (highway/city) fuel consumption. It has an Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system wherein the gasoline engine stops and the battery works in place of it.
Advantages Of Hybrids Over Conventional Cars
Like other hybrids, this car consumes less gas, which can be seen clearly when the distance of travel is gauged. It likewise produces lesser carbon dioxide to the environment. With the conventional cars, the amount of the carbon dioxide is equal to the fuel that is used. Once the carbon dioxide released is decreased, there will also be lesser chances of pollution, thereby decreasing the factors that can affect global warming.
Since there is lesser consumption of gasoline, your budget for gasoline is considerably less.
Aside from these, the maintenance of the car is not as frequent as a conventional car. Motor and batteries of a hybrid car do not involve any special attention because they do not bring out as much carbon dioxide as the other cars. The brake pads in hybrid cars are not frequently used so it lasts longer as compared to the conventional car's brake pads.
In the US, tax breaks are available to those individuals who use hybrids, such as the 2003 Honda Civic hybrid. This is the way for the government to support the car manufacturers and drivers who likewise help clean the environment.

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57 Chevy - An American Classic

by Joyce Boulan
When the 1957 Bel Air went on sale, nobody - not even Chevrolet - expected to make history. Instead, it became one of the landmark images in American pop culture; one of the most recognizable cars the world has ever known.
Today, automakers still hail the 57 Chevy as a perfect example of good design and great timing coming together.
What we call the 57 Chevy was actually 19 distinct models. All 19 models were based on a single frame or platform, the basic structure of the car. The 1957 models were the final year in that frame's life. It had been the backbone for Chevrolet's model line for the 55, 56 and 57 model years. The only other car Chevrolet sold then was the Corvette.
Ford and Chrysler had all new frames and styling for their 57 models. They should have mopped the floor with the aged GM model, but Chevrolet outsold Ford by 126 cars in 1957. It sold 1,522,536 units of the various 57 Chevy models and 6,339 Corvettes.
The best-selling 1957 model was the Two-Ten four-door sedan, with a base price of $2,174.00. The least expensive was the $1,885.00 One-Fifty Utility two-door sedan. The most expensive 1957 model was the Bel Air Nomad two-door station wagon with a $2,757.00 base price. It was Chevrolet's lowest-selling model. Chevrolet sold just 6,103 Nomads that year, trailing the Corvette by 236 sales.
Some of the options for that year included, seat belts and a racing-style over-the-shoulder security harness. Other options included a tissue dispenser, electric razor, wheel spinners, backup lights and a gas filter. The cars came in 16 solid colors and 15 two-tone combinations.
Many 57 Chevy's featured a prism on the dashboard. It was intended to refract light from traffic signals so the driver could tell when the light changed without learning forward under the nearly vertical windshield.
The cars came with a choice of seven engines; a standard 235.5 cubic-inch 140-hp straight-six; 162-hp 265 cubic-inch V8, and eight versions of the 283 cubic-inch V8 with power ranging from 185 to 283 horsepower. The 57 Chevy was the first American car with fuel injection. The optional 283 cubic-inch fuel-injected V8 produced 283 horsepower. It was the second American engine to develop one horsepower per cubic inch of displacement, coming a year after the 355-hp 354 cubic-inch Chrysler Hemi.
Ten assembly plants built the 57 Chevy Family: Atlanta, Baltimore; Flint; Janesville, Wis.; Kansas City, Mo.; Los Angeles; Norwood, Ohio; Oakland, Calif., St. Louis, and Tarrytown, N.Y.
Many designers and car enthusiasts say they believe the 1955 Chevy was the best looking model, but the 57 model year brought more defined tailfins, bullet-shaped bumper protectors, bombsight hood ornaments and other elements that gave the bargain-priced Chevrolet just enough zing to grab buyers' fancy.
The 57 Chevy had style, the buzz born of racing success and demographics on their side. They hit the used-car market just as early baby boomers got driver's licenses and went looking for affordable wheels.
The 57 Chevy embodied the spirit of Chevrolet, great looking, groundbreaking and affordable.

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11 Tips to Save Money On Car Purchases, Financing, and Leasing

by Kate Ross
You don’t need to be an expert to obtain advantageous terms on your purchase, loan or leasing contract. Following you will find some tips on how to save money on car purchases, car loans, or car leasing contracts:
When Purchasing a Car:
1) Choose a car with a low gasoline consumption so you can save thousands of dollars each year on fuel. You can find out comparisons on gasoline consumption on online sites that focus on energy saving and protection of the environment.
2) Select a car with low maintenance and repair costs. These costs are usually related to the cost of the vehicle but often have to do with the origin of the car. If car spare parts are produced in the country they are easier to get and generally cheaper while imported parts can be more expensive though this is not necessarily a rule without exemptions.
3) When buying a car, shop around to obtain better prices by contacting different dealerships or by purchasing directly from an owner.
4) The car’s purchase price isn’t the only reason for shopping around. When it comes to financing and insurance it is also advisable to compare different loan and insurance quotes before deciding on any kind of deal.
5) If the car is used, have it checked by a professional to see if the car is in good conditions and if those conditions justify the price the seller is asking for the car. Also, make sure to find out what other people are asking for the same car and model so you don’t overpay.
When Financing The Car Purchase:
6) Compare different loan quotes just like you contact different dealerships or look for varied car prices. The loan adds up to the overall costs of the purchase and thus, you need to get the cheapest deal possible.
7) The higher the amount you can put down on your car, the less money you will need to borrow, the fewer interests you will need to pay and the lower the rate you will have to accept. Thus, a good down payment can save you hundreds of dollars each month.
8) Improving your credit before taking a loan will boost your chances of getting better terms on it. Sometimes taking two or three months to put the rest of your debts in order can get you a much better deal on your car loan.
9) Applying for a car loan with the aid of a co-signer with a good credit score will guarantee that you get a better rate even if you have bad credit or no credit at all. With a co-signer your credit score will not weight that much since the lender has another credit score to consider because the co-signer is obliged to repaying the loan just like you if you fail to meet your monthly payments.
When Leasing Your Car:
10) Consider different models in order to get a better price. A leasing contract doesn’t provide you with the ownership of the car and thus, all the costs associated with the car, though passed to you trough the leasing payments, remain on head of the leasing company who owns the vehicle. Some models and brands are less expensive than others in terms of repair, insurance, depreciation which will imply lower payments for you.
11) Pay close attention to other costs like excess mileage, car exchange at the end of the leasing (renewing contract with different car), car purchase option (if you want to buy the car at the end of the leasing), etc.

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10 things to know before buying your first used car

by Peter Johnson
Here are 10 things to keep in mind before you sign the dotted line on a used car.
1. Before selecting a used car you want to buy, read some reviews and check if the car has a good track record in terms of reliability. You may get an unreliable car cheap, but it'll likely break down. Spend a little more money on something more reliable as repairs are still expensive on cheap cars.
2. Find out the fuel economy rating of the vehicle(s) you're interested in, and how much it'll cost to insure. If this is your first car, insurance will be high especially if you're getting a sporty, 2-door vehicle. Staying with a 4-door sedan will help you get better insurance rates. Also, with gas prices on the rise, fuel economy is becoming even more important.
3. Once you've selected a vehicle, make sure you know the history of it. There are a variety of companies that will run a history report on the car by checking that the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of that vehicle was not reported in an accident, stolen, flooded, or repossessed. Most people are not up front as they want to sell the car. Do your research and stay away from anything or anyone you're suspicious of.
4. Find out the used vehicle value. Check online, local newspapers, and the Kelly Blue Book for what the vehicle is worth. Keep in mind that the 'book value' is not always the best measure for what the vehicle is worth as it just gives you the average value. Knowing what other people are asking in the area will help you negotiate and determine if you're getting a good deal.
5. Have the car checked by a mechanic. Sure you'll know if the car was in an accident through the history report but a mechanic can tell if the car was properly maintained. It would be a shame to buy a car and then realize that it needs a $1000.00 repair. A mechanic may find something that you did not notice and it could save you thousands.
6. Always stay level headed when looking at a used car for sale and try not to go alone. Having a second opinion is very important.
7. If you decide to take the car on a test drive, make sure to try everything out, including the a/c, radio, and power features (windows, mirrors, locks, etc) if so equipped. Drive the vehicle on a variety of roads and go to an empty parking lot to test the brakes and handing. But remember, this is someone's car so be respectful.
8. Stay away from older cars that have a lot of electronic gizmos. These are often costly to repair and are not as reliable as vehicles that are more basic.
9. Although a lower mileage vehicle is great, a vehicle with a lot of highway miles is not bad at all. Highway driving is very easy on the car. Stop and go driving is much harder. The condition of the car is more important than the mileage so long as the car was properly maintained.
10. Stay away from ex police cars, cabs, or rentals. These vehicles are traditionally driven very hard and sometimes not as well maintained. They're cheap, but risky to buy.

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7 Easy Ways To Slash Your Auto Insurance Costs

by Elbert Hamilton
Here's 7 easy ways to get the best possible auto insurance deal.
* Multiple Quotes
Get multiple quotes - use the internet and call a few brokers. It's easy to gather some good comparison quotes.
Remember to get different types of quotes e.g one from a direct-sell insurance company; another from an offline broker who keeps a database of quotes; and a couple from the internet.
Cheapest might not mean best. Will they pay out if you make a claim ? How financially secure ? How reputable ? Check around with family and friends, and look for online reviews.
* Different type of car
Insurance costs vary depending on car type. Obviously, that $100k sports model costs more to insure than your average runabout. If you're planning to buy a new car, check insurance costs before you buy. I once set my heart on a beautiful, high performance, highly tuned Pontiac.
Luckily I checked the auto insurance before I bought it, because I couldn't get insurance. Every broker, every insurance company flat turned me down because I lived in a high car-crime area. So I had to forget the car of my dreams until I moved up-town.
* Age and Value of Car
Maybe you're buying a used car ? Maybe your car saw better days a few years ago, and now values much lower ? So why pay for high-priced auto insurance ? In particular, do you still need fully comprehensive coverage ?
A good rule of thumb multiplies insurance premium by 10, and compares that figure with your car value. So if you're quoted $1000 premium and your car is worth less than $10,000 you may want to think if comprehensive represents good value. If you drop collision and/or comprehensive coverage, you should get big savings.
* Higher deductibles (excess charges)
Most auto insurance companies use deductibles to keep policy cost down. Deductibles, or excess charges, show what you pay before your auto insurance policy kicks in. Try requesting quotes with different levels of deductibles, and see how your quotes vary.
Most internet quote forms contain a box where you can specify preferred level of deductibles. Ask your broker his recommended level. For example, going from $250 to $500 deductible can slash your insurance costs by 20% or more. Go to $1000 and you save a lot of money. But you must pay the deductible if you need to make a claim !
* Multiple Insurances
I guess this might come under the 'Get Multiple Quotes' heading, but it's still worth mentioning separately. You usually get an insurance break if you buy multiple policies with the same insurer.
This might mean multiple vehicles, or homeowner and auto insurance. Either way it's worth asking about multi-policy discounts.
* Low Mileage
More and more people work at home. No more commuting. Fewer business trips. Low mileage on your car. Maybe you do travel to work, but car pool ?
Either way, look for low mileage discounts.
* Good Driving Record
A good driving record always reduces your auto insurance costs. Keep a clean drivers license. Don't speed, don't drive dangerously, and you'll save money (apart from other benefits !)
* Bonus Tip
Okay, I said '7 Ways...', but here's some extra tips. Fit anti-theft devices to your car. Go on an advanced driver training course. Use daytime running lights. If you're a college student away from home, consider adding to parents policy.
This short article covers the things you must consider when shopping for auto insurance. Follow these tips and you'll slash your auto insurance costs.

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5 Ways to Locate Parts for a Mercedes Benz

by John Mancini

You own a Mercedes Benz, a car that makes most other drivers on the road jealous and you love that car. You would not think of putting second-class parts into your first class vehicle, but you don't know where to look for parts. Follow these tips to find the parts you will inevitably need for you Benz.

1- The first place that most people think of when its time to replace a part in their vehicle is the dealership where they originally purchased it. While this is an excellent choice, it is also the most expensive. Its expensive for a reason, the parts are genuine and the mechanics are experienced. If you happen to be a hands on type of owner, you may want to install the part yourself; however, if you are not, there is no one better to install a replacement part than the dealer.

2- The next place that people turn to when looking for parts is the internet. The internet has so much information floating around that it can be difficult to pinpoint the information you are searching for. The best place to start your search for parts online is to look for Mercedes Benz specific sites these sites often contain forums. Forums are generally populated with like-minded people, each with varying degrees of expertise with Mercedes Benz. One thing that most of these people will have in common is the willingness to help you locate what you are looking for; they may even be able to provide instructions on how to install the part, if you are the hands on type.

3- Mercedes Benz specific sites also offer other advantages. Most sites will have at least one photo of the item you are looking for as well as reviews from past purchasers. Some of the sites will have directions regarding the installation of parts as well as their removal. Some sites will offer merchandize at a discount or with free shipping in exchange for your business.

4- Salvage yards are generally not on the top of the list when an owner starts the search for a needed part. However, a salvage yard can be a goldmine, especially if you are not the type to pay more than you need to and you like to work on your car yourself. Salvage yards deal with working parts that were pulled from vehicles that are no longer running for one reason or another. These businesses generally, do not offer a warranty, but they do run on reputation. If a salvage yard sells non-working parts, you will be able to find out.

5- If there is a car club in your area, they can also be a great source of knowledge. The people in the clubs are car enthusiasts; they love to help people out when it involves a vehicle. The club members may even be willing to help you, if you want to do part replacements on your own. Happy hunting!

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5 Ways to Find Volvo Parts

by John Mancini

You love your Volvo, right. However, its time to replace a part, it could something that is hidden like a fan belt or a prominent piece of the vehicle such as the emblem or steering wheel. It really doesn't matter what part needs replacing, what matters is the quality and price of the replacement part. You have worked hard for your Volvo and you deserve genuine Volvo replacement parts. These tips will explain the best way to locate these parts.

1- When you are looking for a replacement part, be it a replacement visor or a clutch master cylinder, the array of available sources can be hard to sift through. If price is not a concern for you, the dealership is one of the best choices around and even if price is an issue, the dealer is usually the best place to start. They will be able to give you an approximate price and may even be willing to give you some installation tips as well.

2- If the dealer is out of your price range, there are many more avenues to pursue. Looking online for a part is an obvious choice, and a good one. There is so much information available online that it is almost overwhelming. A good place to start searching for the Volvo part that you need is in forums, these can be in regards to the general subject of cars or specialized for Volvos in particular. The people that frequent these forums range in knowledge from experts to the people who just drove their new car off the lot. When you do find and expert, they are usually more than willing to help you in any way possible, after all, they are Volvo owners who love their cars too.

3- While online, be sure to look over the websites of car part dealers. These websites offer the chance to see pictures and read user reviews of the parts you are contemplating. Online websites may also offer free shipping or deeply discounted price as well as delivering to you door.

4- Swap meets and auctions can also be great places to find the Volvo parts you are looking for. You can find both swap meets and auctions on and offline, of course, there are advantages and disadvantages to both. The online swap meet and auction allows you to do business with people from all over the world, however, you are relying on pictures and some ones' word that they will deliver. On the other hand, local swap meets and auctions will have less people to deal with, but you can see and handle the products that they have available as well as take them home if you desire.

5- Above all, have fun during your search for the part that you need, even if it's only a fan belt. The item itself is not as important as the knowledge that you are giving your car what it deserves, the best parts you can afford.

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5 Ways to Find the Right Accessory to Personalize Your Mercedes

Vehicle accessories are becoming a popular way for owners to customize their vehicles, to add some pizzazz to the look of their "home away from home". Mercedes Benz owners are no different; they want their car to reflect more of them than a standard floor model can. However, most people become overwhelmed when searching for accessories. The following tips will help to take some of the mystery out of accessory buying.

While you are online, consider looking into internet auctions. These types of auctions afford you the chance to do business with literally millions of people from all over the globe. There are several on these auctions sites online, therefore, there is no doubt that you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for.

It would also be a good idea to ask area Mercedes Benz dealers if there are any Mercedes car clubs in your area. If there are, they are an excellent source of information about your vehicle. The members of the club will be more than happy to answer any questions that you have whether they be about accessories or motor oil.

The internet is hands down the best place to start the search for anything having to do with accessories. There are stores that deal genuine Mercedes Benz accessories, places that handle generic accessories and even some that offer used parts for your cars' customization. One of the plusses about buying, or at least starting your search online is that you can read customer reviews; these are fairly accurate depictions of the performance and "eye appeal" of the accessories you are looking at using for your car.

There are so many kinds of accessories available today that it can become overwhelming to some shoppers. It is possible to not only get the standard steering wheel and seat covers, now you can customize everything about your car from stainless steel knob covers to neon lights. The choices are almost endless. Some of the most popular ways to accessorize your car are by adding graphics or pin striping as well as replacing the stock wheels with some that are sportier.


by John Mancini

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5 Ways to Find Discount Volvo Parts

You have worked hard towards your goal of owning a Volvo, to you it's not "just" a car, it's a dream you have realized. However, you do not want to go into debt whenever a part needs to be replaced. What you do want is the best quality parts for the best possible price. Check out these tips to realize that dream too, with discount Volvo parts.

1- One of the most reliable places to get genuine Volvo parts at a discounted price is a salvage yard. This might not have been the first thought that came to mind when you discovered that you needed to replace a part. However, salvage yards deal with factory parts that are still working even if the original car is not. Most salvage yards operate on an "as is" basis, but they also depend on their reputation to stay in operation, they test parts before putting them up for sale. This is an excellent option if you are looking for something like a cooling fan or a windshield wiper motor.

2- Searching the internet can yield excellent results when looking for discount Volvo parts. This is what most websites specialize in, quality parts for less. An added bonus of internet sites is that they can also offer reviews from previous buyers, installation instructions and forums that are filled with other enthusiasts who are more that willing to answer your questions.

3- A more hands on way to find the discounted parts that you need is by going to auctions. An auction, specifically a car auction, is a great way to find the parts you are looking for as well as a great way to get them for a good price. Another advantage to the auction is that you can physically handle the piece and talk to the seller to get an accurate history.

4- A close cousin to the auction is the swap meet. At a swap meet, there will be a number of other Volvo owners. These owners are looking to get rid of certain parts and accessories, sometimes for money, sometimes in exchange for parts they may need. As with the auction, a swap meet allows you the luxury of speaking with the owner and holding the part.

5- The most obvious place is not likely to be a good source of discount parts, but it never hurts to check. The dealership will be able to get you the part you need, even if its at full price, if your other options fail to produce the part you need.

by John Mancini

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3 Tips To Buying The Right Radar Detector

There are many radar detectors on the market right now. Each one of them claims to have a single best feature. Some detect from the longest distance, while others claim to detect the most radar bands. Others claim to have the highest degree of accuracy and can tell the distance and direction of the radar gun.

With all these different features on the market, which one is right for you? What model of radar detector should you buy? How do you know it will actually work in your state? Is it legal in your state? These and other pressing questions are frequently asked. Here are 3 ways to know you are buying the right radar detector.

1. It detects the right bands for you state.

Some states use different types of radar guns, and unless your radar detector can pick up their signal, it isn't any use. There is a whole slew of different bands of radar guns, X, K, Ka, POP3 K, POP3 Ka, Laser, etc.

First you need to find out which bands that your states uses. Then you need to find a radar detector that can pick up those bands. Not every radar detector can pick up every band.

2. Find the model you want.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of reviews for nearly ever radar detector ever made on the internet. Now that you know what bands you need to detect, you need to find the right mix of price and features. Some people don't mind paying $500 for a radar detector, some people want to pay under 100 bucks. Obiviously the more you spend, the more features you will get. And the amount you spend will usually determine the range that your radar detector can detect to.

There are many different websites that will allow you to compare different radar detector models. Once you have found the right model for your needs, find the right price. This usually involves going to a few comparison sites, and searching for that model of radar detector.

3. Make your purchase and install.

Some radar detector installations are as simple as plugging your radar detector into your cigarette lighter socket. Others are more complex and need to have wiring run throughout your car or truck. Depending on the complexity of the product, and your knowledge, you may or may not need to have your radar detector professionally installed. A great place to get a radar detector installed is a car audio store. These shops are experienced with running wire throughout cars, and have probably installed many radar detectors.

Keep in mind that radar detectors are illegal in some states, you should check with local law enforcement before purchasing and installing a radar detector.

A radar detector doesn't make you invincible to radar guns, and it doesnt't mean that you won't get a ticket. You should always obey the speed limit.

by Brandon Hopkins

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2 Ways to Ship Cars From Japan That You Need to Know

Before you even think about buying a car in Japan you need to know how to ship it to your country. For example, if you bought a beautiful R34 GTR skyline and had no idea how to get it into your country you could have just lost quite a lot of money.

There are a couple of ways you can ship your car from Japan. The first method is safer and I highly recommend doing this if you have an expensive or rare car.

Shipping car from Japan in a container.


Doing this will insure your car doesn’t get scratched and knocked about during transit. “Warfies” (the people that work on car carriers) are not exactly concerned if they scratch your car and this happens quite a lot. A small scratch on your import car could cost you quite a bit to get repaired, especially if the car has an aftermarket paint job. Warfies also tend to take things they like. If they see a nice stereo they will do what they can to get it, after all, they are out at sea for weeks at a time so they have plenty of time to steal your stuff.

Using a container to ship cars from Japan however does come at a cost. If you think this cost outweighs the benefits of using a container you should use the next method to ship cars from Japan.

The roll on roll off method to ship cars from Japan.


When shipping cars using the roll on roll of method your car may get a couple of little scratches during transit but often they can be buffed out. If you are importing a 2nd hand car with a standard paint job I suggest using roll on roll of. This is because shipping cars using this method is much cheaper.

If you would like to know the whole process to Ship cars from Japan take a look at Import a Japan Car. There are other things you should know before looking to buy a car in Japan and if you don’t know this information you could be in trouble.

Remember if you want to buy a car in Japan you need to know how to import the car FIRST! Use http://www.importajapcar.com to help you.

by Michael Sands

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5 Tips about BMW Accessories

You have worked and worked and worked some more, you have saved and sacrificed. You finally have it, the BMW that you have always wanted. Now, you want, no need to make it more personal, more yours. Its time to accessorize. However, where do you begin? Follow these tips to find the right accessories for you and your car.
1- One of the best places to start your search for the right accessory is online. There are numerous stores and dealers that offer items from floor mats to graphics and everything in between. Online, you can see pictures, read reviews and get the chosen items shipped directly to your door. As an added bonus, many online stores either deeply discount the products or offer free shipping.

2- However, if you prefer, you can go into a BMW dealership and speak with someone personally to pick out the accessories that best suit your personality and price range. The dealership may also be able to help you by allowing you to see what the accessory will look like on your car before you purchase it, therefore avoiding making a costly mistake.
3- Some of the most popular accessories for BMW's are wheels, stereos and interior accessories such as steering wheels and gearshift covers. These particular types of after market items come in a variety of styles and prices, there is, literally something for everyone
4- Another excellent and often overlooked source of BMW accessories are car clubs, specifically BMW clubs. These types of clubs are full of other enthusiasts who are normally very happy to help you search for an accessory as they have the same interests in their cars as you do in yours. You can find these clubs via the internet, yellow pages or BMW car dealers.
5- After all the research and actual searching for accessories is complete, its time to install. For a lot of car buffs this part is more anticipated than actually seeing what the part looks like on. However, to ensure that you are installing the accessory correctly you are going to need instructions. Often times, the part itself comes with, at best, vague directions. It would be best to contact other BMW owners, either through a car club or via online forums and chat rooms. They will be your best source of actual how-to instructions to get your BMW outfitted and more suited to your personality. Have fun.

by Dan Ford

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