Window Tint: What You Need to Know

Go fast. Go safe. And go in style. This is the unconscious creed of all who consider car modifications. We don�t all seek renovations for the same reasons, but we are all considering modifications for the same underlying reason. We are drivers, mechanics, and dreamers who push our cars beyond the norm and into perfection. Regardless of your own reason for considering car mods, your car can benefit from window tint.

What is Window Tint?

Window tint is a combination of polyester and metalized coating. The window tint has a scratch resistant coating on one side, and a release liner on the other. Window tint is applied by removing the release liner and attaching the film to the windows with an adhesive or a static cling technology. Window tint can be used on both residential buildings and vehicles.

Why Window Tint?

Car modifications should increase the safety, comfort, and aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. Window tint accomplishes all of this and more. Window tint can:

Block the glare from the sun that can make it difficult and dangerous to drive on the road.
Make your car more energy efficient by blocking the sun. This feature will keep your car cooler on hot summer days. A must have for cars whose air conditioning have seen better days.

Block 99% of the UV rays from the sun. This will protect the interior of your car from sun damage. This vital feature will prevent the paint, rubber, and plastic inside your vehicle from cracking and fading.

Why Forego Window Tint?

Window tint is not without its downside. If you spend the majority of your time driving around after dark, you should not use this modification. The main problem is that the more effective the tint, the harder it will be for you to see through the window after dark.

State Regulations of Window Tint

Before applying window tint, you need to check your state�s window tint regulations. In order to protect everyone on the road, states have set up laws that you must follow when applying window tint to your car. Failure to follow these laws can lead to a monetary fine and jail time. If you want to avoid both, you must check out what window tint guidelines you must follow. The state regulates:

• How reflective a window tint can be and where reflective tint can be applied. 
• How dark the window can be on certain parts of the vehicle. 
• If you can use colored tint. 
• If you must have enhanced side mirrors to go with your tint. 
• Whether you need a sticker showing you window tint adheres to the law.  

How Do I Tint My Windows?

Tinting your windows may seem simple, but a sub-par window tint job can be aesthetically disastrous. Improperly applied window tint can have unsightly bubbles and dirt trapped beneath the window tint. In order to prevent this I would recommend that any interested car owners, leave the tint jobs to the professionals.

For those who are confident that they will be able to apply the window tint, I would recommend purchasing window tint that is applied with static cling technology instead of the adhesive. Static cling allows you to remove and reapply the window tint if you apply it improperly.

Window tint needs to be applied in a shaded, well-light, and dust-free area. It should be 40 to 98% F for three days after the installation. And you should not clean your vehicles windows with ammonia or house hold glass cleaners before you apply the tint. After you ensure that you fulfill these requirements, you can refer to this how-to video to guide you through the rest of the installation process.  

As a car mod buff, you might want to consider window tint for your vehicle. Window tint will reduce the glare, heat and UV rays allowed into your vehicle. Just make sure you follow the state window tint laws and have the skill to apply the window tint. And remember, if you�re a night owl, you might want to forego this modification.

Insurance and Modified Cars: The Unpleasant Truth

Before we get to the gnarly truth, let�s first open with pleasant lie. You know that car modification that you finally found the funds, guts, and time to add to your vehicle? Well it will definitely not increase your auto insurance premium. Don�t even bother calling it in to your insurance agent in Dallas or Montreal or New Orleans. Just get in that car and hit the roads. Let�s stop here for a moment and face down an unpleasant truth.

The Unpleasant Truth about Modified Cars 

We love modified cars. There is something about the knowledge that our car is different than every other run-of-the-mill vehicle on the road that appeals to us. Unfortunately indulging in that desire is not without its consequences. Insurance agencies base their insurance premiums on the monetary worth of your car and the risk it will be to insure.

Car modifications often add value to your vehicle and make it more appealing to thieves, for that reason car modifications can and often do increase the auto insurance of the modified car.

Many car enthusiasts who discover this fact may be tempted to prevent this increase in their premium by failing to report the modification or outright lying about whether or not their car has been modified. If you find yourself tempted to omit or lie about a modification, READ THE NEXT SECTION FIRST.

The Unpleasant Truth about Failing to Report Modifications

For an individual who just spent thousands of dollars tricking out there car, an increased monthly premium can be an unneeded expense. You should be aware that the failure to inform your insurance company about the modification can be disastrous. Why? Your insurance is a contract. Your insurance company agrees to help you pay for damages, and injuries when your vehicle is involved in an accident. In return you agree to pay your monthly premium on time and provide honest information to the company.

By not informing your insurance agent about a modification that might change your car�s value, performance, or aesthetic appeal to thieves, you have broken the contract. Even if the breach of contract is the result of ignorance, you are still committing insurance fraud. Insurance fraud will lead you down one of two paths when you finally need to file an insurance claim:

1. The company may decide to pay only for the value reported instead of the current value.
2. The company may deny your claim. If you are particularly unlucky they may sue you for committing insurance fraud.

The point of insurance is to protect yourself financially when you are involved in a car accident. As a driver, you spend thousands of dollars a year on insurance. The decision to misrepresent your vehicle will mean that you will have spent thousands of dollars on an insurance plan that is invalid. The cost of not informing your company about a modification that will increase your insurance is far higher than an increase in your premium.

Ending Notes: Not all modifications need to be reported, but it is far safer to run the modification by your insurance agent. You should report all modifications that alter your car�s value, performance, aesthetic appeal to thieves, or changes the engine size. Your insurance agent will inform you how your insurance will be changed based on your modifications. 

5 Ways To Customize The Car You Love

Once you�ve found the perfect car, you have to take steps to customize it to your unique personality and taste. You don�t need to spend thousands of dollars to customize your ride. Keep these five customization ideas in mind when planning what to do to make your new car truly your own.

1. Change the upholstery.

The interior of the car can be leather or a unique pattern on fabric. You�ll also want your seats to be comfortable to sit in while driving or for your guests when riding, Select from options including cloth, leather, faux leather, and suede to truly customize your ride.

2. Change the paint job.

Decals make your car stand out in a crowd, but they are temporary and do not look as sharp and professional as a paint job done at an auto body shop like the one my friend runs in West Chester, PA. They can also peel off once they�ve been on your vehicle for a while. Anyone can go buy a sticker and slap it on their vehicle, but getting a custom paint job takes dedication and love for the design. A few racing stripes, a logo or a design creates a unique look that is sure to stand out whether you�re in a tiny town or large city.

3. Get a custom license plate.

Getting a custom plate doesn�t cost too much money and it grabs the attention of anyone sitting behind you in traffic. It will also be easier to remember your license plate when you need to write it down on forms or identify it to someone. You have so many options when it comes to selecting a license plate.

4. Add aftermarket lights.

Lighting is versatile and can be added in the front, back or along the sides. Use brightly colored lights to highlight your car�s primary color. Don�t go too crazy on the lights though. If you go on overkill than you might end up having too many contrasting looks that creates disorganization.

5. Modify your tires.

Your tires give you plenty of customization options. Choose unique rims that improve your car�s look and take it a level up from the manufacturer�s design. Select from black, white, silver or chrome to draw attention to your rims.

Cars provide endless opportunities for customization. Show your personality by modifying the paint, changing the interior or by adding custom rims to your vehicle.

The Secrets Of High Octane Powered Engine Speeds

�High octane� is a term many might get a headache thinking about. And when throwing "physics" into the same sentence, one might quickly turn and run the other way. However, one need not worry in this case�here, brought to you by Greenball Tires, the physics of high octane power will be basic enough for any layman to understand.

We�ll start with the term �octane� first. Octane has to do with volatility, or, when speaking of fuel, the tendency to explode. It�s a general rule that the lower the octane number of fuel, such as 87, the easier the fuel combustion under pressure. Conversely, the higher the octane number, the harder it is for combustion. This is why high octane fuel is more expensive�high octane fuel�s trait of combustion less easily has been shown to extend the life of high-performance engines, and many of these engines require use of this higher octane fuel to function correctly.

When many people think �high octane fuel,� they think �fuel that�s more explosive than regular fuel.� Well, believe it or not, high octane fuel is less explosive than the fuels with lower octane levels, which is optimal for high-performance engines. The reason for this has to do with how an engine compresses gas. All car and truck engines have motors that compress fuel.

As many know, high-performance oftentimes means more horsepower. And higher horsepower means greater forces throughout the engine (where, then, more force throughout the engine means more force to the wheels, where the driver feels the resulting horsepower).

The forces we�re concerned with here have to do with the force of an engine�s pistons plunging into its cylinders. When an engine pushes a piston into a cylinder, fuel beneath it gets compressed. If the fuel has a low octane level, it combusts easier during this compression. With a high-performance engine, it is not good for fuel to easily combust as the crankshaft turns at higher-than-normal revolution per minutes. The pistons in these types of engines move so fast that if they don�t have a pocket, so to speak, of fuel that is harder to combust, the piston may hit the bottom of the cylinder, which can cause major engine problems. Keep in mind that with lower-powered engines, fuel that combusts easily is innocuous to the engine�because the pistons are cranked into the cylinder with less force, they are unable to slam against the bottom of the cylinder. So, ultimately, high octane fuel keeps a high revving engine healthy.

Three Reasons to Buy Peugeot Parts Online

Comprehensive Range

We�re not talking about a single random scrapyard, but rather a huge network of authorized breakers yards that in essence come together to offer the biggest and most eclectic range of parts the UK has ever seen. And when it comes to the rarest of parts and those that haven�t been made by the manufacturer for decades, there�s really not a better place on Earth to turn. If a Peugeot part exists or has ever existed, this is where you�ll find it. 

Convenience

Heading out to six or seven breakers yards in hopes of finding the Peugeot part you need isn�t exactly fun at the best of times � especially when you know full-well that you�re probably coming home empty handed. The alternative therefore is to sit at home, make a few clicks online and have someone else search the length and breadth of the country for the part you need in the best condition and at the cheapest price. And once it�s found, they�ll deliver it right to your door at no extra charge. 

Costs

And finally there�s the biggie � the price. Apart from maybe a branded garage selling official top-tier parts for exorbitant sums, chances are you aren�t going to find any third-party retailers offering price promises and guarantees. Shop online however and you not only stand to find what you need for less than half the price of the store-bought equivalent, but it will also come backed with guarantees that you simply will not find it cheaper anywhere else. 

Hook, line and sinker - the single best option on the market today for the UK�s Peugeot drivers. 

By Dave Marsh

Dave Marsh used to import hard to find Peugeot spares from the continent, though now spend his days writing on various subjects around the auto industry. 
+Agnes Jimenez

3 Cheap Alternatives to Repainting Your Car

Your car is like a member of your family, and, like the rest of your loved ones, you only want the best for your car when something breaks or your paint starts to peel. Why recycle your car or sent to the car removals if it�s not needed?

Some paint jobs, however, can cost in excess of a thousand dollars, even for the simplest of colors and the smallest of cars. For those who can't afford to have an expensive paint job done on their car, a few affordable yet quality alternatives are available.

Do-It-Yourself: Head to the Hardware Store

That's right. The hardware store isn't just for homeowners or contractors anymore. Many people who want to breathe new life into their vehicles can head down to the hardware store, pick up a few items, put in some quality hours in the garage and have it all done for under $100.

To begin, purchase some sandpaper, painter's tape, foam brushes, paint trays and primer spray paint. Depending on the size of your car, you may need to purchase between four and six quarts of paint. A good thing to remember when purchasing paint is that you will likely need to apply at least six coats of paint to your car before the job is done.

Once you have purchased all the supplies you need, begin the prep work. Remove any and all pieces that come off easily. Doing this will help you avoid any unnecessary cleaning that may arise should you accidentally paint any headlights or other parts that should be left untouched. 

Next, thoroughly wash every piece of material that you plan to paint. Make sure your work area is clean and free from any extra debris. Dirt and grime that is left on the vehicle will cause a number of problems during the painting process.

Next you must mix your paint. Make sure the paint is mixed to the point where it looks and feels similar to milk. This will ensure that every part of the car is covered evenly and that there is no extra runoff after you are finished. 

It is also important that you plan how you want to paint your vehicle. Keep track of every part of the vehicle that you have already painted and remember to evenly spread the paint over each section of the car. 

While a significant amount of elbow grease is required for a decent paint job, doing it yourself certainly beats heading to Maaco to spend $1,500. 

Rustoleum

Rustoleum offers a wide range of products for individuals looking to paint their cars at home. 

Head to your local hardware or automotive store and pick up four quarts of gloss Rustoleum, four cans of Rustoleum primer spray paint, sandpaper, acetone, painter's tape, a spray gun and air compressor. 

After you have completed the prep work, removed all necessary parts and cleaned the outside of your vehicle, you're ready to begin painting. If you plan on using a darker color for your car, make sure to apply a dark colored primer first. If you plan on using a lighter color for your vehicle, apply a light colored primer first. 

After you have completed the job, you'll want to let the car sit for a few days to let the paint cure. Similar to using regular paint, this will set you back between $100 and $200, depending on the size of your vehicle. 

Because Rustoleum products are exclusively made for automobiles, the process is relatively easy. Similar to other do-it-yourself jobs, you must have proper knowledge of how to use the products and what to do if you make a mistake. 

Good Old Fashion Spray Paint

A few cans of spray paint can go a long way for someone who knows what they're doing. 

Before you try this method, however, make sure you have had some training on how to properly use spray paint and have a backup plan in case it doesn't work out.

First, buy as much spray paint as you need from your local hardware store. Remove any parts of the vehicle that you don't plan on spray painting and set them to the side. 

Next, remove the hood completely and spray paint it by itself. This will make the process much easier and will keep the engine clean. After the entire car has been painted, let it sit for a couple of days to cure, wet sand the exterior of the vehicle and then apply a coat of polish.

While this is a very affordable alternative to spending thousands of dollars at a local collision and paint center, it is a very risky process. You may end up using too much paint and may have to repeat the process multiple times to get the look you want. 

Author Bio

Rebecca Smith�s is a car enthusiast that stems from working on cars with her Dad when you was just a young un�. She is interested in finding creative ways to reuse car parts or modify cars that are at the end of their years. In her spare time she runs a Car Removalist Company.

The Ultimate Starting Guide For Car Mods

Street-rods were founded upon "bigger is better". These days, with innovation being at the vanguard of automobile performance, bigger is not automatically better. Nowadays it comes down to adding power through an aggressive motor in addition to a light-weight frame.

Plan your modifications

Many people choose parts on a feel-good factor. We would like that intake or desire that exhaust since we want the motor to sound great, and deliver more punch. However then we discover that we are considering going a separate path, suddenly the exhaust is not big enough or too big, and the intake doesnt work now. At this stage we have found that we squandered cash and really should have come up with a strategy based on the objective of the car.

Choose your individual staging

If haven't got the vehicle, you need to establish which platform you will be going to go for prior to your mod plan. This relates to determining which type of racing or functionality you prefer from the vehicle. For flat-out muscle, practically nothing will beat starting with a factory turbo or a V8 motor.

Drag-Racing

The mission of drag-racing is to speed down 1320 feet as swiftly as you possibly can. Consequently your vehicle should be as light as achievable, start as rapidly as is possible, and have as very much usable power available as possible. If the car has front wheel drive, you should have a set of slicks and a limited slip-diff. If the car is rear wheel drive, you could potentially pull off using street-slicks, then again this won't work for dedicated drag racers.

Road Racing

Road racing demands power and all around amazing handling and stopping power. Road racing means approx 30mins of continued punishment. Vehicles that are light-weight and control well could easily have much faster lap times compared to cars generating double the power, and so it's actually a game of harmony. For competitory use, you should get a set of road-racing-tyres and a set of rims to match.

Auto X

Auto X especially wears down tyres from parking-lot racing. You need, first-rate torque, and a functional power-band as a lot of of the time your speed is going to be below 60 mph for typically nearly 1-2 mins each time. Most crucial will be your tyres and the suspension setup. Therefore you'd have to get tyres which are capable of handling well on gravel and heat up swiftly.

Car Modification planning

Not all the mods need to be complete simultaneously, however, many will require a modification prior to moving to the next stage, and so plan that too.
Intake System

If you have no turbo but you plan to add one later, skip the intake. The intake will be redone when you add the turbo. Additionally, should you opt for a turbo kit, nearly all come with an intake kit.

Exhaust System

The more boisterous the exhaust the greater power it delivers, right? Wrong. Simply since an exhaust is noisy does not mean that the car is creating greater power than an equivalent vehicle with a less noisy exhaust.

Turbo Kits

If your own vehicle did not include a turbo from the factory, then this is first on the list. Then, when you buy your exhaust, you can also get the whole system re-tuned. Do it all at once and you will inevitably end up getting accustomed to the power far too early, and will want more.

So to conclude

There are so many mods available its impossible to cover everyone in one article. But, I wanted to cover the most important for beginners. Modifying vehicles is fascinating, and incredibly satisfying, and it also does not have to be rocket-science to get the ideal set-up.

I�m a car enthusiast with a passion for old, new, fast and slow! Whether it�s private, commercial, car, buggy or van? If it comes on four wheels it rocks! I currently work in Citroen Vehicle servicing and love the opportunities to work with a variety of vehicles - old and new!

Decorate Your Car For Fun

Spring is upon us and isn't it a wonderful time of year? We throw open our windows, clean our homes from top to bottom and start to look forward to longer days and the approaching summer.

But spring cleaning shouldn't be confined to just your home. Why not get the kids involved and give your car a complete makeover from top to bottom? The added bonus is that you will find all sorts of long lost treasures hiding in the nooks and crannies. Here are some great ideas from Diamond to get you started with the different ways to decorate your car�

Cleaning out the car

The car decoration is of no use if the cars are not tidy and especially after winter are often muddy and in need of a clean, so start by taking some soapy water to its exterior to get your motor shining again. Remove the car mats and replace them if they are looking a little worn. Replace the car seat covers with something bright and cheery to reflect the spring theme. Vacuum everything thoroughly and use a stiff brush to loosen any stubborn dirt.

If your car has a musty smell, sprinkle baking soda on the upholstery and rub it in gently. Leave it overnight and vacuum up the residue the next day. This grandma tip is guaranteed to shift the most doggy of smells!

Accessorizing the car

Most local print stores can make custom decals based on images that you choose. Decals are like stickers but are hardier and can endure the elements that a car is subjected to. Why not choose a spring theme such as gardening or honey bees and print out some decals to place on your car�s body.

Or to make your car stand-out from the crowd even more, how about Car-Jazzling?

Car-jazzling is the art of personalizing your car to brighten it up and reflect the light-heartedness of spring.

Take a look at your car headlights and imagine them with long, pretty eyelashes. Car eyelashes are widely available online but haven't really caught on in the UK yet. Watch all of the copycats in your street when they see how adorable this simple modification looks.

If you want to keep the car decoration a little more low-key we can turn our attention to the interior.

Buy a piece of AstroTurf and cut it into the shape of your rear parcel shelf. This cute garden bed can then house some imitation flowers, a white picket fence made from cardboard and a handful of small toys. Your kids will love it!

A more conservative option would be to keep a plastic vase in your car and fill it with fresh flowers. This would fit in with the spring theme and give your car the scent of freshly cut flowers. It really will feel like spring has finally arrived!

Your car is an extension of your personality so why not accessories it as such? It is just a bit of fun and if you can always take it down when you have had enough of it. Go on, get some car decoration for fun!

Keeping Your Car a Classic: 5 Tips To Maintain Your Baby

If you own a classic car, that fine piece of equipment is often classified as your baby. Just like you would take care of your little one, you need to make sure that you take time to take care of your classic car. Older cars, while they are classics with a great reputation, are more susceptible to having mechanical issues if they are not regularly maintained. To keep your car in tip top shape, here are 5 of the most common issues you may need to solve.

5 Common Car Maintenance Issues 

Car leak are perhaps the most common problem reported by classic car owners. While these leaks can occur a number of different places, in classics made by all of the most respected manufacturers leaks generally occur around the valve covers, the main seals, and the crankshaft seals.

1. Valve Cover Leaks

If you know your way under the hood of your classic Mercedes you must also know that what is a valve cover, you do not necessarily need to schedule Mercedes repair to fix a valve cover leak. This repair can easily be made if you remove your valve cover and replace the old gaskets with new ones that will sit flat and prevent further leaks.

2. Main Seal Leak

If you are a classic car enthusiast but not necessarily a mechanic, you may need to schedule Mercedes service and maintenance to fix a main seal leak. Because this seal is located in a place that cannot easily be accessed, it takes a lot more knowledge and work to fix. In some cases, the transmission and the clutch will need to be removed to access the main seal.

3. Crankshaft Seal Leak

Also known as the harmonic balancer seal, the crankshaft seal is located at the front of the engine and may not require in-depth mechanical skills to repair. By purchasing a seal kit, you can remove the harmonic balancer and install the sleeve to stop the leaks in the crankshaft. While you will need to follow directions, there are plenty of instructions that can be found on the Internet for do-it-yourself repair.

4. Door and Window Seal Leaks 

Oil leaks are not the only leaks you must worry about. Your door and window seals keep the outside elements out of your vehicle. If they are leaking, they have probably worn or cracked. The seals can easily be replaced with seals from the manufacturer or seals from an aftermarket parts company. Once you order the seals, you need to remove the old seals from the pins they are clipped in to install the new seals.

5. Fading Finish 

Over time, the dirt builds up and causes your paint finish to fade. By using a mild soap designed for cars on a routine basis, and waxing and buffing your baby by hand, you can protect the finish and make your baby shine.

Maintaining your baby is all about identifying problems before they get serious. While some work must be performed by a professional, many problems can easily be fixed on your own.

Custom Paint Job - Things To Do First

Daniel Harris possesses a creative mind that drives him to express himself with any medium he can get his hands on. He currently funds his artistic endeavors by writing for BYK Additives & Instruments who specializes in color measurement.

In a world of increasingly similar people, there is the urge to be unique, to mold your vehicle into an outward vision of your personality. It grants a certain status. You are the person that has the guts to proclaim to the neighborhood who you are. Unfortunately guts and courage will not counter the accidents, changes in personal taste, or the very real potential of a resale that might dampen any urge to buy a custom paint job.

Accidents Happen

Inexperienced drivers, slippery weather conditions, and the occasional mistake in judgment mean that your car is an accident waiting to happen the moment that you drive it off the lot or out of the shop. Accidents lead to chips and scratches on your car and the potential need to replace entire doors that are beyond repair. Not a problem, right? You just have to touch up that cool custom paint job that all your friends� envy. Easier said than done.

Custom paint jobs, while cool, deviate from the normal colors that a car is typically painted. This isn't a problem until it�s dragged into the shop and the car mechanic has to try and match your cars color code, which can be unique if you had the pain custom made which turns the matching game into a guessing game. Because of  how color is measured, it is difficult for the mechanic to find that exact shade of blue when there are ten million possible color variations. Depending on the quality and resources available to the mechanic that will be in charge of the repaint, they may not have the material available that will allow for the identification of the exact shade that was used on the custom job. The wrong choice and your car could be painted two different shades of blue. What was once cool and visionary becomes a mockery of what it once was.

People Change

Custom designs, especially custom designs that have flames, thunder bolts and any other number of symbols might lose their significance as individual�s age. Cars for many are an investment. They are meant to be the mode of transportation that can last years and sometimes decades. It is important to project ahead when considering a custom paint job. At twenty-one purple and blue lightning bolts running down the side of the car may seems cool, but will the cool factor be maintained as the years pass? Before making any big purchases or decisions you should project ahead and ask yourself: �in twenty years will I wonder why I wanted this?�

Resale Plans

If you get to the point that you�re wondering why you purchased that unique paint job, you might decide to sell it. Selling the car is problematic because the second that you deviated from the norm you opened yourself up to a potential loss in resale value. The problem is that the demand for a car with lightning bolts down the side is not high. This is reflected in the price.

There is the possibility that the modifications in the paint job could fall into a niche of people eager to buy the car for or above resale value. There is the possibility that the car mechanic has the gadgets necessary to pin point that exact shade, and there is a slither of the chance that you will never get into an accident. This possibility should be considered remote for the potential buyer. The odds are not in your favor. After you have considered the potential pit falls of a custom paint job, and still desire a lightning bolt covered car go for it. Or the time being at least you�ll be the coolest person in the neighborhood. And that is something that money can buy.

Are Car Mods Worth It?

Vince Evans was a light mechanic and auctioneer until he went back to his old love, writing. Rather than shouting at North Easterners, he prefers to write about New Jersey used cars dealers.

When thinking of decking out your car you should research to see how much that modification might increase or decrease the overall resale value of the car.

Personalized Aesthetic Modifications

Some modifications like wings attached to the rear of the car or a giant picture of a unicorn paint job might have disastrous effects on the resale value. Okay, yes most people won�t paint a giant unicorn on their car, but the overall concept is true. What is charming to you might be ugly to them. These types of modifications are all flash. They modify the car to fit you. The payoff for these is the personal satisfaction that comes with knowing that you are unique and not like all of those zombies that own the same car.

The problem with personalized aesthetic mods is that the resale value corresponds with the number of people that are willing to buy the car. Because most people are zombies that like to play it safe and not mod enthusiasts, the resale value might take a dive. When you try to sell a mod car to the masses, they sometimes get uncomfortable when they think about owning a car with some kinds of mods. They like normal cars that are a solid red, white, or black. They want the end of their car to be wingless, and they desire to avoid the shame and embarrassment that might arise in formal social situations when people see them climb out of their car at the company picnic. These types of people might not be able to see themselves buying the modified car at market price, let alone above market price. For that reason personalized modifications do not always sell well and should be considered only if resale value does not matter.

The Warranty Problem

Whether resale of a modified car is on the horizon, you should check beforehand if the mod can void the warranty. There are documented cases of warranties being voided because poorly installed modifications led to damage to the vehicle. A voided warranty will lead to a drastic dip in the resale price.

Modifications that Appeal to the Masses.

That being said certain modification when installed skillfully and correctly do appeal to the masses and can increase or at least not hurt the resale value. Replacing that old cassette tape player with a CD player or installing a TV with a DVD player into the back of a mini-van can increase the overall sale price. Soccer moms are less likely to road rage when their kids are occupied with a movie instead of arguing in the back seat. Likewise replacing the ratty seats with new leather can raise the comfort level, aesthetic appeal, and sales price of the eventual sale. It is important to make all mods appeal to a large demographic. Ask yourself what kind of people would buy a car with this modification. If you have a fairly large list of potential buyers, the modification should be safe to install.

Whether the mod is a functional or an aesthetic change, the potential mod buyer should be aware how the changes will affect how used car dealers from New York, Idaho or California will be able to sell your car. The wrong modifications could lead to a larger dip in the sales price than might be expected. And the right one can drastically increase what you can expect for the car.

Tips To Sell Your Modified Car

Things You Should Know Before Selling Your Modified Car

Unlike selling a traditional used car, putting a modified car on the market can be a whole new ballgame. However, when approached correctly, selling a modified car can result in much higher profits. Getting cash for cars is a game that essentially comes down to advertising and presentation strategies. Individuals selling and buying traditional used cars can mainly rely on prices that are close to the Kelley Bluebook value. On the other hand, a modified vehicle must speak for itself.

One of the most important things to do is to accurately represent your vehicle, and show it in the best light possible. Presentation starts with attention to detail. Detail the entire car. The little things can add up quickly, easily resulting in a price difference of hundreds of dollars. Clean the engine with degreaser, add a layer of vinyl protectant to all plastic surfaces, and steam clean the appropriate interior surfaces. Love can equal value.

Changes and upgrades should be included in any advertisements taken out on the vehicle. It may be hard to list all of the modifications in a single ad. Be sure that you also keep a detailed list of any modifications that you have made to the vehicle to present to potential customers. Each change, no matter how small, can raise the value of the car. When possible, keep receipts or any form of documentation for your upgrades. All changes may not be readily visible. The receipts also verify the expense that was incurred as the car was upgraded. If the original parts of the car are in your possession, then include those in the package. Buyers may not be thrilled with every modification. However, they may be interested in restoring certain aspects of the car. The attractiveness of the offer may be based on the good condition of the vehicle itself.

Attempting to get cash for cars can be difficult. You often run into extremely saturated markets. Where you advertise can make a huge difference. It is vital that you try to reach your likely customer base. Modified cars will attract car enthusiasts. These are the people that like to get under the hood and get their hands dirty. The Internet is full of message boards, clubs, and websites geared directly at these types of people. Begin advertising on resources such as these for a higher success rate. Advertising to well-informed customers also increases the likelihood that you can get a fair price for the vehicle. The Internet is also a great resource because advertising can usually be done for free, depending on the site. It is also wise to avoid putting all the eggs in one basket. Advertise in as many places as you can. Use Craig's List, newspaper �Auto-Trader� sections, classifieds, and any other form of media at your disposal. Do not fail to neglect the appearance of the car as well. Use pictures where possible, and put the detail work to use.

This has been a guest post from Are You Selling, a website that helps people get cash for their cars.

Three Tools You Need for Car Restoration

Car restoration can be a very satisfying weekend hobby that can also become a lucrative side business. But in order to be able to have a car restoration project result in an enjoyable rather than a frustrating experience, it's important to have at least three essential tools handy before you begin any project.

Impact Wrench

The nuts, bolts and lugs attached to any vehicle, much less a vintage vehicle that may have been sitting around unused for years, will take some muscle power to be removed during the course of the restoration process. For safe and quick removal of any of these fasteners, make sure you have a good quality impact wrench. This piece of equipment, also known as a torque gun or air wrench, enables you to remove lugs, nuts and bolts using minimal physical exertion. They are available in sizes ranging from one-quarter inch up to three and a half inches.

Angle Grinder

The second essential tool to have handy when doing car restoration is an angle grinder. This hand-held power tool is essential for cutting, grinding and polishing metal during the restoration process. Some models can also be fitted with a sanding disc in order to serve double duty as a sander.

Oscillating Saw

The third essential car restoration project tool is an oscillating saw, also called a reciprocating saw because its cutting action is facilitated by a push and pull motion of the blades. Its fast side to side motion makes a quick job of cutting through thick metal as well as being able to do reach into tight spots where cutting action is needed. Cordless models give you even more flexibility and it's a good idea to invest in an oscillating saw that features alternate blades as well as sanding pads for even more versatility.

Before starting any car restoration project, make sure your jack and stands for lifting the vehicle off the ground are sturdy and reliable so you are completely safe anytime you are working under the vehicle. A reliable creeper also lets you move around underneath the car much more easily. An air compressor is a smart investment, since tools such as impact wrenches and grinders need this to provide adequate power.

Depending upon the complexity of your car restoration project, the tools you currently own may not be optimal for your needs. So take inventory before you begin and do a little online research to judge whether the essential tools mentioned above offer you the features and capabilities you'll need for your particular project. If you're a car restoration novice, ask other buddies who have more experience to recommend those specific tool models they give high performance ratings to and check out online product reviews to determine their ease of use and performance before purchasing them.

Author Bio

Lyndsi Decker is a freelance writer and is currently promoting Multi Tool Blades. She enjoys restoring cars and often blogs about it. In her free time she enjoys road trips with her husband.

How to Get the Most From Your Cars Engine

If you are unhappy with the stock engine that came with your vehicle, then there is a good chance that you are considering the option to upgrade it. Of course, this is something that will require you to put a significant amount of money into the car itself. Furthermore, it will require some labor and time. However, if you follow the steps outlined in this article, you can modify your engine to get the most out of it in no time.

Research engine upgrades for your car. 

 Depending on the specific vehicle you drive, there is a good chance that there will already be some upgraded engines available. Try doing some research online to find out what the most common engine modifications are for your vehicle. A lot of times, you can read about this on car discussion forums, which are typically authored by vehicle owners just like you. You may even want to join in the discussion and ask questions as you go along.

Consider your experience.

Have you worked on engines before? If so, then you may be able to save money by performing the modifications yourself. Otherwise, you will likely want to hire a professional for the job. After all, modifying an engine is a complicated process and can be very expensive to repair if you mess anything up.

Pick out a turbo kit. 

Depending on how much power you want your upgrade engine to have, you will want to choose a turbo kit or other upgrade for your engine that meets your needs. You can buy these online through a number of car part retailers, or you may even be able to get a discount by ordering through your local repair and engine work shop.

Hire a professional or buy necessary tools. 

Once you have the parts you need, take your car and the kit to a professional to have it installed. Or, if you plan on doing the repairs yourself, then be sure that you have the proper tools to do so. This includes everything from wrenches and jacks to spherical roller bearings which you can get from statewide bearings. After all, without the right tools, you will not be able to complete the installation properly.

Test the new engine. 

Be sure to run diagnostic testing on the engine before you take it to the streets for the first time. This will ensure that it runs properly, does not overheat, and has the right amount of power. 

About the Author: 

 Madyson Grant enjoys working on her car and getting the best performance out of it that she can. She is currently blogging tips for improving the quality of automobiles.

How To Get the Best Deal on Your Car

If you are ready for a new car, chances are you know exactly what you want. Whether it be a battered old classic you intend to lovingly restore or a brand new sleek sports car; it pays to do some research ahead of time to make sure that you get the best deal possible. Whether you having been squirreling away the pennies for some time or you have secured yourself 0% car finance; there's no sense in wasting your hard earned money by buying a car on impulse. It doesn't matter if the car you want is second hand or brand new, rolling straight off of the production line and onto your driveway; doing some groundwork will make sure you don't get ripped off. After all, when you are cruising around town or meticulously polishing your car you want be able to be that extra bit smug knowing you secured a good deal.

 

Scout Out Second Hand Deals in Other States

As with all significant purchases, shop around. If you are buying a second hand car, you may well want to consider buying one from out of state. Different cars demand different prices in different states. It all boils down to the availability of the particular car you require. This in turn is often dictated by the climate of a particular state. For example, in regions which have a climate which renders cars prone to rust, obviously a second hand car which is rust free will command a higher price. Therefore if you live somewhere where cars start to rust up after their first winter, consider traveling further afield to get a deal on a rust free used car.

The road trip home after collecting your car from another state could be the ideal opportunity to get to know your new purchase. However, make sure you accurately calculate the cost of flying to pick up your car in addition to the fuel costs for the journey home and add this value to the price you are paying for the car when deciding if you have found yourself a bargain. If you are buying from out of state, make sure you do your research into the various tax and registration implications; for example depending when you will get the title and whether the car is registered, you might be required to get an interstate transit permit to make sure you are legal on the drive home.

Be Prepared

Before going ahead with your purchase, do your research and have everything in place. Knowledge is power after all, so you are in the best position to grab a bargain if you have spent some time doing some research. If you are buying a used car, trawl the internet (online auctions, forums and car trading websites) as well as local auctions, classified listings and dealers for a bargain. Once you have found something suitable and at a good price, give the seller a call and fill in the details that might be missing from the ad such as the car's history and specific questions relevant to the make, model and age, e.g. has the timing belt been recently changed? If you are buying brand new, chat to people who already own the type of car you are thinking of purchasing in online forums. This way you can find out which optional extras might be worthwhile additions or which are all looks and no substance. If you are buying from a dealer, see if you can find reviews from people who have bought from them and definitely check out their returns policy.

Whether you are buying new or second hand, you need to set a budget and stick to it. Use resources such as the Kelly Blue Book to see what you should be paying for a new or used car. Calculate running costs such as servicing, fuel consumption, tax and insurance. Again, hit the forums to find out what people are really paying to run your particular vehicle. Once you have your budget ironed out, you need to ensure you have the right finances in place. If you have diligently saved for this day, then make sure the funds are easily accessible. Alternatively, consider guaranteed car loans from a car finance specialist to ensure you obtain the funds you require without any hassle. Having the finances in place ahead of time (and the cash in your back pocket if necessary) will mean you have one less thing to worry about and can swoop in when you see a good deal.

Negotiate

Once all the ground work is complete, bagging yourself a bargain is all about negotiating. Many people shy away from driving a hard bargain and this is what car salesmen bank on. If you have done your research you should have the confidence to go in and negotiate yourself a good price. When buying a second hand car, it is worth taking a mechanic or someone with a good working knowledge of cars (if you don't have that yourself) with you. If they find something requiring expensive work, you can negotiate the price down accordingly. When buying new, often it is worth buying your car towards the end of the month when the cut off for sales targets is looming and staff want to get one more deal in before month end. Similarly, if a new version of the model you are buying is due to be released soon and you are happy with the existing model, you may well find that a dealer is eager to see their old stock sold and may be more amenable to negotiation. However, if you sense that the sales person is not going to go any lower on the price, start haggling over extras; even something as small as a tank of gas or a set of mats equates to money in your pocket.

Simple Things that will Increase the Value of your Vehicle

The value of a car generally goes down approximately 65% after about 5 years of normal driving. Once you have decided to purchase a new or newer car it is tempting to quickly settle for the best offer you can get on your old car. Before hastily putting a "for sale" sign on the back window and placing an ad in the local newspaper, you should take advantage of a few simple and fairly inexpensive tips that will enable you to get several hundred dollars more than you otherwise would. There are other things that you should always be doing in preparation for the time when you will want to sell your car.

Washing and Detailing

Although this should be obvious, it is amazing how many people neglect to do it. Improving the appearance of a car both inside and out will greatly improve its perceived value. Your vehicle may be in superb mechanical condition, but if it doesn�t look clean and polished the car�s resale value might take a hit. It is well worth the investment of detailing and washing the car, regardless of whether you do it yourself or have a professional do it.
 

Limit Upgrades

Strangely enough, upgrades often decrease a cars resale value. For instance, adding a custom stereo system probably seems like a good idea, but modifications usually lower a car�s resale value. If you do upgrade your vehicle, you should keep the original parts so that it can be easily reverted to the original factory condition. Many experts suggest that you resist the urge to customize if you want to get top dollar when you sell the vehicle.

Keep your Car in the Garage

If you live in an area with harsh climate and severe weather, you should keep it in a garage. If you don't have a garage, consider using a car cover. This will make a huge difference in how your car looks.
Maintenance
 

One of most important and practical things you can do to maintain top resale value on it is to strictly adhere to the maintenance schedule including regular oil changes per the guidelines in the operator's manual. Be sure to document all of these things. A shrewd buyer will be as concerned with the mechanical condition of the vehicle as they are with the looks of the exterior.
 

Repair all Known Issues

Used car buyers love hearing that they�re buying a car with new parts. It instills trust when the seller is willing to spend money on repairs even though they won�t personally benefit from them. Whether it�s a new set of tires, seat covers, windshield wipers or spark plugs, these repairs give the impression that all known issues have been fixed and the car won't be in need of immediate service.
 

As simple as these things are, they will make a huge difference in being able to sell the car for the highest possible price. You can usually get more money for your car by selling it yourself rather than using it as a trade-in on your next car purchase. When you purchase your new car, be sure to choose one that holds its resell value well.

Author's Bio:

Marc Tuttle is the Manager of Internet Marketing at Seat Covers Unlimited. Visit our site to view seat covers by Seat Covers Unlimited.

Precautions While Purchasing Used Car

The economic recession is one of the main causes for the development of used cars market. Nowadays, most of the individuals opt for buying used or pre-owned vehicles because according to them, it is not practical to spend on new autos when the economy is not in a good shape. If you are also considering purchasing a pre-owned car then it is good to check out some of the most significant aspects before actually finalizing the deal.

The very first thing that you should consider before buying used car is your budget. Now, after deciding your budget, next thing to consider is the size that directly depends on the number of persons you have within your family.

After preparing the list of cars you are considering for, you must pick a good dealer who has used cars of the selected models. Once you have short-listed the cars, next task you have to do is to check the years of registration of the cars. Purchasing a vehicle that has run almost more than 17,000 Kilometers is not worthwhile. While carrying out such task always remember to check the functioning of odometers.
Take a test drive along with your own mechanic; it will enable you to check the various parts including the engine plus the transmission whether they are functioning properly or not. In some countries such as the United States, you can avail Car Fax reports & from them, you can further find out the complete history of the automobiles. Through these reports you can also check out the particulars of the accidents if any. Car Fax reports also tell the service history of the cars.

You should always keep in mind to monitor the cooling system, the radiator, the alternator & the starter of the automobile, especially the second hand car. The radiator should be free from any kind of leaks. The working of the Brakes should also need to be monitored. It is always recommended that you should visit the dealer with your own mechanic.

Nobody desires a very cheap auto but at the same time one cannot actually go very far. It is then very much essential that one should inspect autos� general condition before actually purchasing it. Numerous things that include the make, design, model, & color should only be less important. If you want to buy used or second hand cars, you must consider its functionality as well as affordability!!!

About The Guest Author: 

Sofia Williams writes for www.lahondaworld.com. She is a freelance content contributor and likes to write about various spheres like Social Media, technology trends and her secret favorite � cars and automobiles. She is a keen observer and contributor for various auto forums and the online auto space.

McLaren Launches the MP4-12C Spider

The famous Grand Prix winner company launches yet another top open car --- The MP4-12C Spider. This latest Mclaren 12C has the same innovations and made by the best engineers the company has. This the 134th model of the company and they are very proud of it.

This super cool 12C Spider comes with:-

�    Hard top folding roof which is retractable
�    The roof can be lowered and put up in 17 seconds at 19mph speed. Removing the roof does not  interfere in your drive.
�    The structure has a chassis made up of carbon mono cell. It is light weight which only weighs 75 kilograms.
�    In just 3.1 seconds you can reach 70mph and goes upto 330kilometers per hour.
�    You would love to hear the engine roar of a V8 engine
�    The feel you get when the roof is not there, is just wow. You enjoy the drive and the breeze around.
�    The best and the most attractive part of the spider is the seats and the panel and the cockpit area. The seats are so set that the driver has a clear view of the car form the front.
�    The interiors some so comfortable and very stylish. The steering has been designed for maximum ergonomics.
�    The 12C Spider has a 3.8 litre V8 engine.
�    The performance of the car depends a lot on the weight of the car. The engineers at the manufacturing company have really kept in mind this aspect. The roof is built from some light weight material making it the lightest convertible.
�    The brake force is towards the inner rear wheel. This enhances the performance of the car towards the corners.
�    The spider has a drag upto 80kgs and ensures a weight distribution of 50:50 even while applying heavy brakes.
�    The spider has a suspension which is hydraulic and interconnected. This gives the driver a drive which is comfortable on the road and the race. The spider has a proactive chassis control and adaptive damping for a smooth drive at a high speed.

An interesting thing is that the features and the technology present in the 12C Spider are similar to the Formula 1 of Mclaren were banned for the race. But these are allowed on the road and the track rules do not apply on the road.

Anyone who loves style, speed and luxury would love to ride a Mclaren 12C Spider.

Author Bio:- 

 John Polk writes for Toyota place He is a freelance content contributor and likes to write about various spheres like Social Media, technology trends and his secret favorite � cars and automobiles. He is a keen observer and contributor for various auto forums and the online auto space.

How To Keep Your Car From Rusting

 

 

Don�t Let Your Car Rust

One day suddenly you find some rust on your car. Rusting occurs when iron or the steel reacts with water with the heat and the salt in the air.

Don�t worry if the rust is at a small place, under the car or at a place where it does not show. The paint is not only for the car to look nice but also prevents rusting. You should be careful in case there is a scratch as that could lead to a bigger repair problem. Make sure you keep your car away from oxidation.

How do you notice the rust?

�    When you clean or wash your car, check for rusting in the wheel wells and all the corners.
�    Look around the car antenna, mirrors, moldings, trims, under the car body with a torch or some light.
�    If you stay near the sea or the ocean or where it rains a lot check the metal of the car regularly for rusting.
�    Ask your service mechanic to properly check under the car for rusting when the car is on the hoist.

Observations:-

�    You might find the paint is darker at some places �� might be that it is rusted below the paint.
�    If you have a scratch or a place where the paint has come off, apply the paint and don�t let it rust.
�    Use the rust removers at the pitted areas.
�    Rust settles at place where there are salt deposit and dirty places.

How to handle the rusting:-

�    Rub sandpaper or a razor at the rusted area. Be careful you do not spoil the paint around the rusted area. You could use a brush to dust the scraped rust.
�    Apply the rust resistor so that the rust does not spread further.
�    Then paint it with a brush or a spray gun depending on the area after applying primer.
�    At some places where the rust is really bad and you need to change that area, take an estimate from the mechanic and decide if it is worth the money spent keeping the life of the engine in mind.
�    You can use the rust removing equipment available

How to avoid rusting

�    Wash your car once in 2 weeks and maybe once  a week where there is salt in the air .
�    Every six months you should wax your car.
�    Make sure that you clean your car from inside as sometimes spilled things can start rusting.
�    Wash your car properly under the car and in between the wheels.
�    You could use the rust preventing sprays if you live at places which have salt in the air, like the areas near the oceans and seas.
�    Keep your car dry as far as possible.
�    Cover your car if the car stays more in the open.
�    Try to keep the car indoors
�    Always clean the rust the minute you notice it.
�    Applying the primer with the machine electrically run, has a better and a long lasting result.

You can save your car from rusting and causing major damage by checking it regularly and repairing the rust the minute you observe it.

Author Bio :- 

John Polk writes for www.markkia.com. He is a freelance content contributor and likes to write about various spheres like Social Media, technology trends and his secret favorite � cars and automobiles. He is a keen observer and contributor for various auto forums and the online auto space.

Keeping Your Home Safe with Garage Door Knowledge

Few days back, a post was published here on this blog about the benefits of using the roller garage doors for your home garage. Well, our reader Daley James Francis has just emailed us a relevant article about the garage doors and how can you keep your home safe with them. I hope you guys will find it informative.



There is a saying: �A little extra knowledge never hurt anybody.�

Not only is the statement true, but it can also be taken literally in the case of having garage doors installed at home. These products are made with steel or aluminum, and in most cases are the biggest, heaviest items you can have put onto your home. If you don�t keep a close eye on your garage door and read up on what to look out for if the product is beginning to show wear and tear or starting to operate poorly, it could result in somebody getting seriously hurt.

Keeping The Family Safe

If you have a family, children will be constantly running around inside and outside the house, and minor accidents are bound to occur. It�s all part of growing up. When an accident occurs because of faulty equipment in the home, it is much harder to deal with. A faulty garage door coming down and hitting a member of your family would be tragic, but if you keep on top of your checks and your knowledge of the product is good, there shouldn�t be any reason to panic. Keeping a schedule for checks and cleaning is always a good idea, so you get used to checking over the product. By doing this, you will notice any changes in the product before they can escalate into something bigger.
 

Call in the Experts

If you�re going to pay out on having a great quality garage door installed at your home, it is highly likely that you will be checking out the market and choosing the right product and best deal for you and your home. When you do this, it�s a very good idea to talk to the people at the company to get an idea of how to take good care of the product so safeguard you and your family against the chances of any accidents taking place.
In most cases, you will be told to look out for rust, wear and tear and any problems related to the opening and closing of the door. Does it make a lot of noise? Is it difficult to close? These are all things to look out for, and when they start to happen, it is a good idea to get the experts out to have a look. It could cause you a lot of hassle in the future and will reduce the risk of an accident occurring.
 

Author Bio:

Daley is a home owner, and roller garage doors by Easyfit are a great way for other homeowners to achieve a high level of home security.