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.

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.

Car Death or Injury: What to Do When Your Modified Car Gets in an Accident

�Ferris, my father loves this car more than life itself.�

�Ferris, he never drives it! He just rubs it with a diaper!�

As car enthusiasts we often spend years restoring and modifying cars. We invest our money, sweat, and time into the car. Like Cameron�s father from Ferris Bueller�s Day Off, we can become a tad obsessed�although we prefer to think of it as passionate. We may not love the car more than life itself, but it might be one of our most prized possessions. We may not spend our free time admiring the sleek paint job and polishing it with a diaper because that would be crazy�

Ok, I admit, I do spend hours each month polishing my car with a cloth. 

Unlike Cameron�s father though, I do drive my car occasionally. It is a nerve wracking process, but what is the point of owning a car if we cannot go on adventures together? We have two choices, hide it away to protect it, or drive while proactively looking out for the negligent or incompetent drivers.  There is only so much you can do to protect your car from the outside world. Eventually an accident might happen.

What to Do Immediately After the Accident?

At this point there is nothing you can do to prevent the accident. What you need to do is follow the law to the �T�. State automobile law is on your side, as long as you are not at fault. As soon as the accident happens you need to complete these steps:

Stop your car. Pull over to the side of the road if no one has been injured.

When you talk to the other driver stay calm. You may feel like blowing a gasket, but you and your car are better served by being calm and meticulous. In no circumstances should you say anything that might be construed as admitting guilt. Don�t even say a polite �I�m sorry.� The time for niceties has passed.
Call the police about the accident. The police will catalog any injuries and damage to the vehicles.

Collect the other driver�s information and ask the police officer for a copy of the accident report.
Survey the scene and take pictures. Spend a few moments after the accidents taking notes. This is important because monetary compensation hinges on who was at-fault for the accident, and it is important to record critical details while your memory is fresh.

What To Do After

Ensure Your Insurance Company is Fair

At some point, you will need to inform your insurance company that you have been in an accident. Do so immediately after, but do not sign anything, provide a recorded statement, or allow a claims adjuster to look at the vehicle before consulting a car accident lawyer. Insurance agencies may protect you, but they are also a business who can lose money if they pay the full value for every claim that comes across their desk.  Lawyers can ensure that your insurance or the other driver�s insurance company will not cheat you out of the money necessary to return your car to working order.

Look Into Seeking Monetary Compensation from the Other Driver

You may also want to consult a lawyer to talk about filing an accident claim against the other driver. Whether or not the other driver has insurance, they can still be held responsible for the injuries and damages acquired during the accident. If the other driver is uninsured or under insured in an at-fault state, you will be able to file a lawsuit to receive compensation for injuries, monetary loses, and damages. If you live in a no-fault state, who caused the accident is not considered. You will not be able to file a claim against the other driver. You will need to collect your claims from your insurance company.

Car accidents can be hard. They can be made harder when a car is damaged or destroyed that you spent years building and modifying. With the proper preparation and after-the accident strategy, you can receive enough compensation to rebuild the car or begin to modify a new car. It�s not fair, but it�s something.

The Top Three Reasons for Car Accidents

Cars are an essential part of American life. They get you where you need to go, but they can be dangerous when drivers don't operate them properly. Around 10 million car accidents occur every year in the United States, and accidents can cause serious or fatal injuries to the driver and passengers. Most wrecks could be prevented by avoiding some of the major causes of car accidents.

Distractions

Nowadays, people have more electronic gadgets than ever before. Mp3 players, cell phones, and GPS systems are a part of everyday life, but they can also be a major distraction while you're behind the wheel. Many states have outlawed the use of electronic devices while driving, but the problem persists.

Teenage drivers are especially prone to text messaging while driving, and this makes them four times as likely to get into a crash. Drivers need to keep both hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. Cell phones should be turned off before you get in the car. Although it may seem convenient, eating in the car is also a major distraction, and you should avoid it.

Drunk Driving 

Drinking impairs a person�s judgment and senses. Driving Under Influence or DUI is responsible for a large percentage of car crash fatalities.

In addition, driving under the influence can result in arrest and serious legal problems, including prison sentences. If you've consumed any amount of alcohol, it's not a good idea to drive, even if you don't feel drunk. Find a designated driver before heading out for a night of partying, and take the keys away from someone who's attempting to drive drunk. They might be angry with you at the time, but they'll thank you for it later.

Speeding

People often speed because they're in a hurry, but causing a fatal accident is far worse than being a few minutes late. When you're traveling over the speed limit, it's harder to stop or control your car should something unexpected happen.

Speed limits are posted to make driving safer, so you should follow them. Limits are generally lower in school zones or neighborhoods to avoid hitting pedestrians. Following the speed limit will drastically decrease your chances of causing an accident, and according to Engine Repair in Houston, totaling your car.

Car Safety Tips for Kids

Well before I get to my point, I must tell you about how important are kids in our lives. I live in Lahore, Pakistan and enjoying my life with my parents. Currently, I am working with a Japanese used cars exporter. I have no sibling that means I am the only attraction of my parents in this world. That is way I faced many restrictions in my childhood. I was not allowed to go outside as commonly as my other friends could move and play different kind of games. Few months ago I had a negative feeling that why my parents were so strict or careful about me? But soon I found my answer through an incident.

Mr. Obaid is our neighbor living with his wife. They don�t have kids but the story wasn't the same 3 month ago. Mr. Obaid came to my home 4 months ago and asked me to suggest him a family or passenger car. I suggested him a car and they bought it after 15 days from my company�s showroom. As my social responsibility, I advised Mr. Obaid to keep all the precautions while driving a car including seat belt, door checks, wheels air etc. But He didn't paid attention to what I was talking about. In the first weekend after buying a car they went out for a picnic party to the nearest park. Mr. Obaid was driving, his wife was sitting on the back seat and a son with the age of 7 years was sitting on the 2nd front seat along with his daddy. The blunder my neighbor made that they didn't fastened the belt of their son and moreover the Mr. Obaid was driving at a speed of 75 to 80 miles per hour.

What happened was horrible and depressing. My neighbor�s car ran into a pickup truck and due to instant break, Mr. Obaid�s son came out from the front window by breaking it and died on the spot. That was really not worth telling what situation I saw there and in the hospital or in their house after the death of their beloved son.

But the question is that what made this accident to happen? What was the cause? Was it due to over speeding? Answer to all these questions is that only negligence made Mr. Obaid and his wife to live without their son.

Now, I am going to tell you about some precautionary measures or tips to keep your kid safe while driving and not to commit serious mistakes like Mr. Obaid did. Please have a glance on the tips below.

1. Keep Your Younger Kid With You:

It is very important to keep the younger kid from 1 year to 6 or 8 years with you or if this is not possible then keep your kids at the backseat, install a child restraint (you can find anywhere in your local market) and fastened the belt.

2. Seat Belt (Double Check)

Fasten the seat belt of your kid and before moving, double check it because sometimes you do not pay attention in first time.

3. Lock The Doors  

It is very important to lock the back seat doors and try to keep your child away from the door lock because kids have the tendency to play with the door lock.

4. Turn off The Music Player And Car TV

I feel very bad about those people who have ruined their lives by losing their loved ones just due to some negligence. Car music and TV are some of the big attention grabbing objects. So, when driving a car, turn off your TV which is visible to the driver. It is recommended to lower the level of volume of music too because you have to listen every voice of your kid behind your seat.  

5. Keep Your Child Away From Airbag

Although airbag is for the safety yet it is only designed for the adults not for the children. They are very power full when inflated and they can injure a kid very badly. Airbag�s placement in the car is too low which can be a reason of suffocation. So, always place your child at the backseat.  

6. Don�t Keep Hard Things/Metal Along With Child Seat

Study tells that the child�s skin or body is more sensitive than an adult. So, don�t keep any hard thing or metal along with the child restraint or seat.  On the time of instant break or accident these things can make very dangerous damages to your child.

7. Always Pull Over When Kid Drops Something 

Survey found that very high percentage of people tries to pick up dropped things during driving which is very harmful. It is highly recommended to pull-over your car before picking up a dropped thing by your child.

8. Keep Small But Dangerous Things Away

It is experienced that people who smoke usually give their lighters to their child as a playing objects. This is very hard to believe but it happens. If you smoke and have a lighter so keep it with you and do not give it to your kid or do not keep it near to your child.

9. Keep Checking Your Kid 

  Don�t leave your child unattended. Children can do serious damage with themselves. So, keep checking your child by pulling over your car when at a long journey.

So, these were some of the important tips and precautionary measures during driving a car with a child.  I hope I have helped many family oriented people by writing this article. Kamran, the son of Mr. Obaid was just like a younger brother to me. I still remember that when I got a car in a reward to my promotion as a Marketing Manager, Kamran saw my car and said that I will also find an exporter of Japanese used cars, work with them and will get a car in a reward of my hard work.  I dedicate this article to him and I request all the parents to follow these instructions and tips to have a safe journey. You kids are your life so don�t ruin your life.

 Make it as happy and safe as you can with your children.

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

4 Key Things To Look For When Buying a Used Foreign Car

Buying a used foreign car has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the major benefits of buying a pre-owned vehicle is the fact that you don't have to worry about falling victim to steep depreciation as soon as you drive the vehicle off of the lot. With this being said, finding a reliable used foreign car can be challenging. You'll need to be a resourceful buyer, do your homework, and look for the red flags before you buy if you want to invest in a vehicle that'll last. Here are 4 key things to look for when you choose to buy used:

1. Do Thorough Research On the Car's History

It's easy to get emotionally attached to a vehicle when you take it for a test drive. If you've always dreamed of owning a BMW, finding a used BMW in your price range can be enough to make you overlook important details. Get past your emotions and do all of your homework before you even see the car in person. If you're buying from a used car dealer, get the VIN of the vehicle at the top of your list and run a vehicle history report. This report shows you if the vehicle has been involved in an accident, if it's been maintained, and how many people have owned it.

2. See What the Consumer Reports Say

After you look at the report, you should do even more research to verify that the year, make, and model you are looking at doesn't have any serious recalls or consumer complaints. If a model has transmission problems, you want to know right? Sites like Edmunds have reviews on every vehicle you could imagine and checking these reviews could be the difference between buying a car that'll last, and buying a car that will be in and out of a shop specializing in BMW repair in Austin, TX. If the complaints are consistent across the board in forums and review sites, this might not be the car for you.

3. Don't Just Look Under the Hood, Inspect the Entire Vehicle

If you don't know much about cars, you might lift the hood up and take a glance just to let the seller think you know what you're looking at. You don't have to be a professional to spot some serious problems. Start by inspecting the sides of the front fender and the trim around the vehicle. If there's damage, the cars been in a serious accident and the frame hasn't been repaired. Look for rust under the car and around the wheel wells. If there's rust, run! When you look under the hood, don't just look, check fluids and look for leaks. If you really are inept with cars, you can always bring a mechanic with you to point out potential problems.

4. Check the Status of the Title and Registration

If you're buying from a private seller, you might just assume that the vehicle is registered and smogged. Don't assume this because it can cost you money. You should check the status of the registration through the DMV website with the license plate number, verify the title has no liens, and make sure there are no parking tickets or other fines that you'll be responsible for when registering. Make the seller pay for a passed smog and never sign the purchase agreement until the vehicle passes.

Buying a used foreign car is a big investment. If you want to make the right investment, do the research even if the seller seems trustworthy. You'll be happy you did in the long run.

Keep the cost of driving down

Driving is an expensive business these days and when the cost of living is increasing, keeping costs down has never been more important. Here are some simple ways you can drive your costs down...

Consider a smaller car

Do you need an estate car these days or is it just excessive now? There are many benefits in having a smaller car so consider downsizing. Smaller cars are cheaper to run, cheaper to insure and easier to drive therefore you are likely to use less fuel as you try to park or get around town.

Drive Economically

There are a number of things you can do to drive more economically to reduce your fuel costs. Try and go on longer drives so bundle your to-do list together to a bigger list as it takes a lot of fuel to get the car going so lots of short drives is not good for it. Additionally try and reduce harsh braking by slowing to a stop as this will reduce fuel consumption also. Also travel light, reduce any additional weight to the car as this will just add to your fuel consumption.

Compare Car Insurance

This is such an obvious one but is often ignored. Many people are not good at shopping around to see if they can get a better deal for their car insurance. When your renewal comes in, get onto a car insurance comparison site to see what deals you could get. You might be applicable for a multi car insurance deal for you and your partner. This can save you a lot of money so consider these deals when comparing prices.

Learn about your car

Now we are not suggesting that you get a degree in mechanics but if you take the time to learn a bit more about your car, it can really help when it starts having issues. It could even be as simple as learning how to change your tires in case you have a puncture at the side of the road and have to fork out for the AA man to come and rescue you! Just learn some general maintenance for your car so you can help keep it healthy between services.

Regularly service it

Your annual mileage service is not there to make you spend MORE money on your car, it is there to help keep costs down and to keep you safe. As soon as there is a problem with the car, get it checked out. Generally the longer you leave it, the more expensive it will be as it reacts with the other parts of the car. If you are worried about the costs of a garage, look into your local garage who are likely to have lower costs. Chat to your neighbours and get advice from them about where they go.

Consider a hire car

If you already have one car in the household, do you need a second one? Or is it just on the odd occasion you really need it? Consider all the costs involved with buying and running your own car... do you need it? If you can afford to get rid of it, you can always hire a car or lift share with someone else. Definitely consider it.

There's no denying that owning and driving a car is expensive but if you are clever and economical about it, you can save yourself some money.

Anti Driver Under Influence (DUI) Technologies That Will Help Prevent Drunk Driving

Driving Under Influence or DUI is a havoc which keeps resulting in many tragic mishaps in the form of financial loss or in many cases, the loss of precious human lives. Therefore, exciting work is under way with a change in approach for control of drunk drivers. In addition to strict laws and stiff penalties, law enforcement is working towards prevention. Imagine that, finding a way to stop drunk drivers from getting into their cars, or getting the cars started.

That is exactly what is happening at this time. Car manufacturers, the U.S. government and individual states are all working on separate plans for prevention of drunk driving. There are three main projects underway. Each one has a different approach to the problem.

Driving Under Influence (DUI) Prevention APPS

A number of states now have anti DUI smart phone apps that query the driver. If a certain number of questions are answered incorrectly, a red light comes on. These apps can be kept in places that sell alcohol as well as on private smart phones. If the host or bar owner feels a person is inebriated the smart phone app can be put to work. At the discretion of the establishment they may refuse to supply any more alcohol to the driver under influence. Some of these apps have adapters that the supposed drunk driver must use to have their breath analyzed. This may be the first type of smart phone anti DUI application available for use by the public. The reason is because the technology is already present and approved in cases of DUI, by the courts.

Concept Car - Active Warnings

Some new cars are under development outside the United States are working on plans that definitely take a different approach against the problem of Driving Under Influence. If the car senses erratic driving, caused by alcohol or any other reason, several warnings are given to the driver. If there is no response eventually, the car will lose power and have to pull off the road.

Other projects have the transmission knob for shifting detect alcohol in sweat on the hand of the driver. Evidently a certain level of intoxication must be reached before this can even be detected.

Auto Manufacturers Plan to Stop Drunk Driving

Over ten million dollars is being spent on a unique way to stop any drunk driver from starting their car. To start the vehicle a button is pushed. At that time a laser light shines on the spaces between the fingers and detects the amount of alcohol in the blood of the person trying to start the car. Should the driver be inebriated beyond a certain level, the car will not start.

This is good news for everyone, including those who drink and drive. It will certainly be preferable to be prevented from driving than to be involved in an accident or a problem with the law. If you have been arrested for driving under the influence be sure to employ a reputable DUI attorney San Diego County.

How To Avoid A Lemon When Shopping For A Car

You cannot afford to make a mistake when purchasing a car. If you find out that your car is a lemon, it can be hard to get your money back even if you can prove that you were duped. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you don't get stuck with a lemon in the first place.

Get A Used Car Report

The first step that you should take is to get a vehicle history report on any vehicle that you plan on purchasing. When you go to Jeep dealerships Westchester NY, you should be able to get this report fairly easily. These reports can tell you if the car has been in a previous accident or if the car has been repaired in any other way.

Take A Test Drive

Before purchasing your next car from a pre owned Jeep dealer Westchester NY, make sure that you take a test drive. This will ensure that you get to see the car in action before your purchase it. If you get the impression that there may be something wrong with the car, do not purchase it. As you drive, listen closely for any squeaks, groans or any other odd noises that could indicate that the car is a lemon.

Have It Inspected By An Independent Mechanic

If the dealer agrees to do so, you should get the car inspected by a mechanic of your choosing. Your mechanic should be able to tell you if there is anything wrong with the car that could cause you to spend more time than you want to in a repair shop. At the very least, make sure that the dealer has conducted a thorough inspection before you buy the car.

Ask For A Warranty

The best way to protect yourself against a bad car is to have a good warranty. Generally, you will have three days or a certain number of miles to return the car with no questions asked. Additionally, you can purchase an extended warranty to cover the cost of any future repairs that need to be made.


Choosing the right car is a decision that you only get to make once. Therefore, you need to make sure that the car you purchase is going to be reliable and last for a long time. The good news is that avoiding a lemon is as easy as doing your homework and not buying a car without taking a test drive.

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.

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.

How To Find Good Family Cars

The buying of cars today has been made so easy. There is need however to understand the current market trends because every so often there are news of manufacturers recalling a model because of a problem that affects its performance. This doesn�t help in painting a reliable picture of themanufacturer in the eyes of the general population. Finding good family cars will therefore involve knowing exactly what you are looking for before going to the website or to the car dealers to ask for a car quote.

Many people will agree that being indecisive when buying something as important as a car might eventually lead them to buying something that they never wanted or needed in the first place. Doing some research, comparing the ratings, the prices, the features and many other features is important. Research can be easy when one has an idea of the class of family cars they want to own and this will definitely help them in getting the right car.

Reviews have become one of the best ways through which many people get vital information to base their decision on. It is highly unlikely that a car which is being advertised as extremely good to own can be bought by many people if the reviews it is receiving from the people who have already owned it are all negative. It is for this reason that many people are going for the established known brands of family cars and at the same time basing their decisions more on what other people say of them.

Visiting the yard for a test drive is a good thing that every person who has settled on a particular car must do. Test drives are generally for short distances but there would be no harm in hiring the car for a day and testing its capabilities at no one�s impositions.  Taking the car for a day helps one to test its practicability, long distance driving comfort, behavior on steep roads etc. All of these would definitely be hard to test if the car was tested with the car salesperson sitting in the passenger seat. This type of drive testing helps one come up with the best type of car out of a large pool of family cars (it�s interesting that the Danish word is familiebiler).

The cost is one of the main determinants of what type of car one can buy or not.In fact, it is the only determinant that dictates what category of cars one should dare look at. This however, does not mean that one can�t get an ideal car based on their needs and family preferences. Having considered all the factors that people consider important, it is not hard to see that there are good family cars in every cost category and all one has to do is compare and contrast the cars� benefits with their needs. Using these tips will most likely make one end up behind the wheel of a car that makes them smile more.

Car Mods That Will Lower Your Insurance Costs

Even before The Fast And The Furious made it�s debut, car modifications were popular. Not only were car mods a great way to increase your car�s performance, they also increased your car insurance premiums as well. Adding more horses under the hood or tricking out your body kit are almost guaranteed ways to jack your premiums higher than your chassis. That doesn�t always have to be the case, though. There are plenty of things that you can modify on your car that will actually lower your car insurance premiums.

Green Mods

Converting your engine to a bio-diesel, or a gas/electric hybrid are great ways to improve your gas mileage and save money at the pump. In many states, car insurance providers will also give you a �Green Car Discount� of up to 15% on your premium. Saving money two ways for one modification is never a bad idea. Even if you paid a lot up front for your green conversion, you can save a lot of money on gas the first year alone. If you take the average car�s gas mileage of 20MPG and convert it to the average hybrid�s gas mileage of 53MPG, that will net you an average yearly savings of $1,438. Now, factor in a 15% savings on your insurance per year and you�ll be racking up some serious cash.

Tracking

Installing a hidden GPS tracker in your car is a great way lower your insurance and give you the confidence of knowing where your car is at all times. Even if your car does get stolen, you can pull up an app on your smartphone and see exactly where your ride went within seconds. Just give that information to the police, and you�ll have your car back soon and there will be one less car thief on the streets to worry about. Getting a GPS tracker installed is almost a public service to your community.

Anti-Theft

Any anti-theft devices that make it more difficult for thieves to successfully steal your vehicle are a good idea. Many cars today come standard with a few basic anti-theft devices, but adding to those will go a long way to giving you peace of mind and a fatter wallet. Some anti-theft devices include:

•     Car alarms
•     Electronic locks or keyless lock device
•     Tubular locks. These locks that can only be unlocked by a tube-shaped key with over 50,000       tumbler combinations.
•     Non-passive fuel cut off devices
•     Many more. Consult your provider to see what anti-theft mods qualify.

 Author Bio:

Mark McCrell is an auto aficionado who loves to drive his 1974 Buick LaSabre around town and write about all things auto.  He currently blogs for the website AutoInsuranceQuotes, which specializes in cheap auto insurance.

The Upcoming 2012 Toyota Camry - Refurbished to Rule

Toyota Camry 2012

The brilliantly tweaked and tuned version of the captivating Executive sedan by Toyota India, 2012 Toyota Camry is all set and geared up to dazzle the Indian markets with its grand launch scheduled to take place on the 24th of this very month. This brand new face-lift of the famous Toyota Camry which happens to be the 2nd best-seller of Toyota after the magnificent Corolla, is much more than a facelift. With a number of fascinating twists to enhance its overall charm, comfort, safety and performance, 2012 Toyota Camry carries the charisma of leaving the beholder spell-bound for eternity.

Marking the majestic beginning of the 7th generation of Camry in India, the revamped Asian model of 2012 Toyota Camry will now be assembled in India itself at Toyota's Bangalore plant. Right from the front to the rear end, Camry is packed and loaded with features to kill. An aggressive and stylish 6-slat radiator grille with a central V bend and a full chrome coating set between a magnificent pair of HID projector headlamps in swept-back style housing powerful round fog lamps also with a chrome setting has been employed to accentuate the manly stance of the royal sedan. Whereas, a massive bonnet, an all-black air dam stretched across the front side together with an elegantly curved front bumper add a dash of classiness to it. As for the rear end, an impressive pair of LED tail lamps in a smart semi-rectangular shape extending right upto the boot lid along with an angular bumper framing a pair of reflectors, perfectly suit the classy looks of the 2012 Toyota Camry.

But it is the side view of the all-new Camry that flaunts the most enthralling features of all that not only make it look bigger but also better on the trendy front. Flanked by a totally refurbished pair of wing mirrors with a round touch and glowing with LED turn lights, the 2012 Camry arrives in style with a glittering dash of chrome on almost every element including the door handles, window frames and even the running boards. To add to the sophisticated attire donned by this latest Toyota release, a graceful svelte frame has been chosen for it that starts from the lean fenders and spans over all three of the A, B and C pillars.

No doubt the exteriors of Toyota Camry are enchanting, but its interiors are nothing less than opulent. Assuming a three-toned guise, the interiors have been ornamented with streaks of faux-wood and chrome at various places like the middle portion of the front dash, the central console, the top end of the steering wheel and the meter dials to impart a glossy finish. Built mainly for people who prefer to be chauffeur-driven, the rear seats have been designed in sofa style with extreme focus on the comfort of the passenger that includes immense legroom and headroom together with a reclining front passenger seat.

To power this marvelous machine, an equally skilled 2.5-litre 2AR-FE 4 cylinder petrol engine has been incorporated under the hood that churns a peak 181PS at 6000RPM with 233Nm of maximum torque at 4100RPM partnered with a 6-speed Automatic transmission system. Housing a fully-equipped security system complete with front dual airbags, ABS, EBD and Brake Assist, 2012 Toyota Camry has been tagged with an estimated price of Rs. 23 lakh turning the heat on Honda Accord, Skoda Superb, Hyundai Sonata and the Volkswagen Passat.

About The Author:

Shweta Agarwal is a Guest author and writes on automobiles and gadgets. Now she is sharing the news about upcoming car 2012 Toyota Camry. Toyota Camry price has been tagged with Rs. 23 lakh. Follow her at Google+.

How to Select Good, Trustworthy Auto Repair Shops

Despite the global economic slowdown and rising fuel prices continuing to hit the country, several people opt to keep their cars in good running condition. Even if the car requires major repair work, most people get it done instead of purchasing a new vehicle. Although you save up money by not buying a new vehicle, you will have to spend an additional amount on repair and maintenance work of your old vehicle. This requires you to find a good, trustworthy auto repair shop.

Finding the best and most trusted auto repair shops is very important, particularly at a time when you are stranded on the road with a car that is not at all functioning. At such a time, people generally look for an auto repair shop at the vicinity. However, if there is no good auto repair shop nearby, it is always better to hire a good mechanic, who will ensure that your car is in good running condition.

For those residing in Mitchell, a small township in Australia, if your car breaks down you can look for a service centre Mitchell nearby. Here are a few tips that will help in selecting the best auto repair shops.

� Before deciding to get your car repaired, it is important to ensure that the repair shop you choose is certified. The mechanics must be highly experienced to deal with major repair works.

� Find out if the car repair shop has good references. Know if the car repair shop is reputed by reading reviews in magazines and online. Family members, friends and colleagues will best advice you about their experiences with the shop.

� In order to get the best car repair done at an auto repair shop it is a good idea to find out repair shops offering services at affordable rates. If your car requires extensive repairs, some mechanics ask you to pay a nominal fee. However, most of the mechanics include the fee in the overall repair work. It is therefore always better to enquire about the fees before taking your car to the shop.

� In most cities, car repairs can be quiet expensive and the labour involved in repairs adds up to the cost. In order to get better deals on your car repair you must opt for repair shops offering affordable rates. Car Repair Mitchell is one of the most reliable and affordable repair centres in Mitchell, Australia.

� Extreme heat and cold can cause extensive damage to the batteries of your car. You may end up buying incorrect battery for your car if you do not consult a mechanic. This can damage your car further and is a sheer waste of money. It is always to get your batteries replaced by relying on car repair service.

Car Doc Fee

After so much research, thinking, discussions, numerous visits made to dealers showroom you zeroed down the car you want to buy. Then the D day comes when you went to the showroom to buy your dream car. After hours of negotiation all settlements have been done, you are about to sign the final documents. Within few minutes that shinning twilight purple metallic 4 wheel machine will be yours. But as you read the papers and go down you will spot a fee of $595 which you were not aware with an unfamiliar phrase describing it as �Dealer Service Fee� or some call it �Delivery Fee� or some car dealers charge it as �Document Fee� or �Doc Fee�.

First reaction of yours will be �What�s this is for?� �Nobody told me about this earlier!�
If the dealer from whom you are buying the car doesn�t have a Full Disclosure Policy, will not disclose this fee earlier. It will be introduced at the last moment. Exhausted you after spending half of the day in the showroom waiting for the deal to be closed, car to be ready, will pick up the pen and will sign after little bargain.

But do you have to? Is it necessary to pay this fee? And what exactly is this thing called a �Document Fee?�

It�s easy to answer the second question first. �Doc Fee� is a cost charged by dealers for preparing the documentation at the time of new car buy. To some extent, this is legit. We may not have given attention to it but there are line of people from lower level to high cadre whose job is to see that all the documents submitted dealing in car sale purchase are in correct order and accurate. So this is their labor fee. But being frank it also includes the profit margin of the dealers. In some cases it is huge, means huuuugee!!

Doc fee varies from location to location. In some places it ranges from from $295 to $695 whereas in some other it can cost up upto $2000. So it is clear the ones who are paying such huge doc fee the dealers of that area are earning huge profits. But to my surprise, in some states doc fee is being regulated by the state and can be charged maximum to $50. I am sure there will be some areas where NO �Doc Fee� is charged on new car purchase.
 

But the question arises how the car dealers get away with this? It�s pretty simple if all the dealers in your area will charge the fee. It will be horrible inconvenient for you to go and buy new car from some other state. So customers pay the fees demanded by the dealers.
 

But more important question is. Do you really need to pay this FEE?

It all depends upon dealerships in that particular area. In my experience 99 out of 100 dealers charge it so one left out will start charging it eventually. And if ardent customer refuses to pay that Doc fee, the dealers refuse to sell the car and you have to go home without your dream car. As a customer you can only equalize this not so required fee by doing good bargain in getting discounts from the car dealer. Like ask for $595 discount or equivalent free car accessories to make up for the $595 doc fee which you have to pay.

Now here comes the rider and the hidden cost. If you think you have managed to land an awesome deal for yourself. A deal which may only be break even or cost to cost for the dealer. You may still be required to pay the doc fee and this might be the only fees that the dealer would be earning on the deal. This might be the money that might be allowing him to stay in business and the dealer�s only profit source.  Now you might think that is not a fair business practice and borders on the business ethics as all fees and charges should be disclosed to the customer before closing the deal. The customer should raise his voice for the deceptive tactic used by some. We provide a full disclosure and all charges and transaction costs are laid in front of the customer beforehand so that they do not feel cheated and shortchanged later on when they sign the cheque.

Bottom line is that don�t get caught off guard by this Fee introduced by dealer at last moment. Expect such thing to happen and be prepared to deal with them. Be upfront and ask your dealer for all the prices included in the final cost.
Good luck!

About The Guest Author: 

Sofia Williams writes for Mark Kia. 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.

 

Protect Your Vehicles: Use a Roller Garage Door

The opening of the garage through which the vehicle can be parked as well as driven out needs to have protection from environmental hazards such as dust, rain, snow, direct sunlight and so on. For such a problem a simple solution is a roller garage door. For those who need a large space for easy movement of the vehicle a roller garage door is the perfect answer as they roll vertically.

Design:

The roller doors are usually made out of corrugated steel. The doors are designed in such a way that some free space is available for the smooth to and fro motion of the vehicle. They are available in different colors. The opening action of the door is performed by rolling the steel door coiling around the drum wheel. 

Security:

When security is considered as an important aspect then these roller doors will fulfil it for sure as they have locking system. This lock can be opened only by the specified keys. There are also bars present on the doors which create a virtual impression that it is impossible to open the door when it is closed.

These doors are available in different sizes from which the necessary size can be selected. They have a high durability that does not require frequent services. They can be used for a year or two without any servicing. However there will be a small obstacle that arises with frequent usage of the door that is, the spring may get lose resulting in the shutter getting closed faster. For this there a simple answer, the spring can be replaced by a new one so that the shutter becomes fit for rolling. The maintenance of the door is elementary which does not consume much human effort.

Insulated garage doors are the new generation garage doors that have upgraded features when compared to normal garage doors. They provide warmth during winter times and as well as keeping your vehicle safe and secure a garage door will also improve your insurance premiums. There are even remote controlled garage doors that are available for reducing human actions. It offers convenience and ease for the user to operate. The cost varies depending upon the quality, sizes and features. There are many companies that are offering the sale of roller garage doors which can be utilized by customers.

Browsing online and comparing will ensure customers make the best choice for their needs.

Author Bio:

Hi this is Amy Jackson.  My passion is to write on Home & Garden and Travel Blogs reach me @eBizVenture.

Car Air Filter - Useful Information That You Should Know

Well, in order to improve the output of your car in terms of acceleration and horse power, it is really necessary that you make sure that your car's air filter is working absolutely fine.

The reason being that the more effectively  your car's air filter, filters the air and send it down to the engine's combustion chambers to burn some fuel,  the greater the power will be generated by your car and hence more acceleration. Absolutely something you crave for when you get on your ride.

So I've decided to do some posts about the air filters or air intake systems. Of course, they are going to be more than one posts related to this series starting from the working of the air filters to the types and kinds of them and of course in the end, some basic playing around / modifications that people normally do with their air intake units so that their cars start raging with power.

So let's start with the basic working purpose and function of your car air filter.

What And Where Is The Car Air Filter?

When you open your car bonnet, the most apparent thing at the top and right in the middle of the whole area (in most of the cases) is what you say a Car's Air Filter Unit A.K.A Car Intake Unit. It's a case with a pipe (again, in majority of the cases) extending out of it. The air filter is inside this whole unit and can be seen when you un-clip and then remove the lid off the unit . It may be rounded or squared shaped.

Coming to the question of how does an air filter work, the most simple answer is just like your nose hair. I'm sorry to be that gross but I believe that this example can be understood by people from every background. So what does your hair in the nose do? Simple, they block or filter out the dust particles coming from this cruel mean world and ensure that pure air reaches your lungs. The same is done by the car's air filters (air purifier) as they block the dust particles and send the air to get burned. The very air that contains oxygen. So less the impurities and more the oxygen, the more fuel will be burnt by the engine and therefore will produce more power in turn.  

Types Of Air Filters.

When it comes to buying, installing, cleaning and replacing  your air filters, its necessary for one to better know the types of air filters available in the markets. There are variety of air purifiers available in the market and of course the choice depends on the factors like durability, performance, maintenance and the size of your pockets. Like a "daddy" would like to have an air filters which has a long life and is economical but the racers would want to have filters which makes their cars like a person on anabolic steroids. So below are some of the types discussed, and by "type", I mean to say the material used in the manufacture rather than the shapes of the filters (like Cone, RAM, Panel e.t.c.). I hope that after reading them you'd be in a much better position of deciding one for your car.

1. Paper Air Filters

Easy on your pockets and to stay within your budget, these air filters are prepared using paper pleated to adjust in the filtration unit. Of course the term paper doesn't mean the same paper used in writing or scribbling e.t.c.

The pleated paper air filters are though economical and cost effective, yet they are not considered effective enough as they tend to restrict the air flow. Secondly, they also need to be replaced more frequently. Say,  about after every 10,000 miles.

2. Gauze Air Filters

These air filters are further divided into  two categories:

a. Oil Based Gauze Filters.

As the name suggests, they are normally laced with chemical which we normally call oil. So these oil wetted air filters restrict the abrasive and other hazardous organic particles to enter the engine cylinders hence minimizing the wear and tear of the car engine.

b. Dry Air Filters

These are the oil filters not equipped with any kind of chemical compound and the only line of defense is the very material they are manufactured with. Like paper, cotton foam e.t.c.  

3. Foam Air Filters

Foam is used in such kind of air filters. They've considered as a good and effective material against dirt and dusts and the use of foam in  the air purifiers until recently was not only restricted to the Cars' Air Filters, but many other household equipments used to have them within them. Like vacuum cleaners, lawnmowers e.t.c. The main reason being their high dirt capacity (ability to restrict larger quantity of dust) with minimal air restrictions.

The above mentioned kinds of air filters are not the only air filters that are used around the automotive world. There are more like oil bath air filters, cotton air filters e.t.c. You'd see many of them used in the combination with other kinds. Like foam and oil gauzed air filters.



So what I have tried to do is that I've discussed a rather generic kinds of the filters that you might encounter.



Since the post is getting longer, I find myself not in a position of discussing what type of air filters are suited for what kind of conditions and why the people just don't stick to the very best and optimum kind of the air filters. I'd rather leave it for some other day, some other post.