In 2016, all light vehicles—from passenger cars to light trucks—had an average lifespan of 11.6 years. That’s 3.2 years more than the lifespan of light vehicles in 1995! What’s even more impressive is how cars now last longer even if Americans are driving more. According to the latest count, the average U.S. motorist now drives a yearly 13,476 miles. That longer lifespan doesn’t apply to the entire vehicle though, especially the tires. Granted, you don’t need to replace the tires as often as you change air filters. But when it’s time to change your car’s tires, you need to replace them without delay. Failure to do so puts you at risk of serious accidents that you could’ve otherwise prevented. Now the question is, how do you tell if it’s time for tire replacement? These seven signs will tell you that you need new rubber! 1. Tread Depth That’s Less than 2/32 of an InchIn the U.S., 42 states have a tread requirement of 2/32 inch, or 1.6 mm. In California and Idaho, that drops to 1/32 of an inch. Six other states don’t have any specific law on tread depth. But even if you live in a state where there’s no law, you should still follow the 2/32-inch rule. After all, it’s your safety on the line, as bald tires have reduced grip and traction. The more worn out your tires are, the higher risks you have of slipping on wet or icy roads. Speaking of icy roads, it’s best to swap to winter tires, as these are safer for winter driving. Going back to tread depth, you can use a Lincoln penny to check how much tread you have left. Insert the coin, head-down, into your tire’s tread. If you can’t see the head, you still have enough tread left. But if you see the whole head, you need a tire change ASAP. 2. Aging TiresEven if your tires still have enough tread, make sure you check their manufacturing date too. Some automakers, like Ford and Toyota, recommend tire replacement after six years. That’s whether you use your car every day or only during the weekends. Most car service manuals have specifics on the recommended age for changing tires. If yours doesn’t, check your tires for the name of the manufacturer. Some tire manufacturers, such as Bridgestone, recommend a tire change after 10 years. 3. Uneven WearExcessive wearing on any area of the tire raises your odds of getting flats. This also causes tire instability, leading to poor handling, cornering, and braking. So, check your tires for areas that appear balder or more worn that the rest. If you notice any of these symptoms, take those as signs to change your tires. 4. Incorrect Tire PressureUneven tire wear can also signal incorrect tire pressure (either overinflation or underinflation). If you’re unsure of the recommended tire pressure, check the inside of your driver’s door. There should be a sticker there detailing tire pressure recommendations. If there’s none, you’re sure to find it in your owner’s manual. But what causes overinflation or underinflation in the first place? Tire punctures and leaking valve stems can cause a drop in your tire’s air pressure. Parking or storing your car outside in either hot or cold weather is another reason. In high temperatures, the air inside the tires expands, leading to overinflation. In low temperatures, the air inside your tires contract, resulting in underinflation. That said, it’s best to always go for indoor parking, especially in places with extreme weather. If you don’t have your own garage, there are parking management services you can take advantage of. You may want to check out Kenzie’s for more info on indoor parking. But if improper tire pressure has become a constant issue, it may be time for you to switch tires. 5. Bulging or Bubbles in the Tire’s SidewallsBulging or bubbling in tire sidewalls often signal internal tire damage. This can be a crack in the internal frame, which driving with underinflated tires can cause. Driving over huge potholes can also cause such damages. Either way, a cracked internal frame allows air pressure to reach the tire’s outer layers. This air leak then causes the sidewalls to bulge out or bubble up. If your tires exhibit these symptoms, a new tire change is in order ASAP. Keep driving on such tires, and you can experience a sudden, deadly blowout on the highway. 6. Tiny Cracks All Over the TiresIf you’ve noticed tiny cracks on your tires, those are what you call dry rot and they’re often a sign you need new tires. These appear when the rubber is already breaking down and falling apart. When this happens, the rubber can become too loose and already separate from the tire’s steel belt. So, the next time you give your ride a thorough washing, check the tires for these cracks. If you see a lot of them, bring your car to the mechanic for a new set of tires. 7. More Frequent Trips to the Gas StationThis may come as a shocker, but the state of your tires can actually affect your mileage. In fact, underinflated tires on standard 20 mpg vehicles can consume up to 2% more fuel. If your tires have abnormal wearing, that increases their rolling resistance too. As a result, your car needs to consume more fuel to make up for the energy lost due to that resistance. So, that’s even more money that goes to filling up your tank earlier than necessary Get Replacements as Soon as It’s Time to Change Your Car’s TiresEvery year, 2.35 million Americans get injured or disabled because of road crashes. Many of these were preventable, such as making sure they had properly-inflated tires. That said, if you notice any of the above-mentioned signs, then it’s time to change your car’s tires. And don’t delay getting them replaced! Remember, it’s not only your safety and life on the line, but also the well-being of millions of other road users. Looking for even more car maintenance hacks that’ll make your ride last more than 200,000 miles? Then be sure to use our ultimate vehicle maintenance checklist! The post Signs You Need New Tires appeared first on YouFixCars.com. Signs You Need New Tires posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger Signs You Need New Tires
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Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are the future of automotive transportation. Toyota has already released its 2019 Mirai, which runs on nothing but hydrogen fuel. The future is now, and hydrogen is leading the way for the automotive industry. Learn how your car can run on nothing but water with a hydrogen fuel cell DIY car conversion. Find out how this technology works and why your car prefers hydrogen fuel. DIY Car Hydrogen Hybrid Conversion: Can Cars Run on Water?Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, and it is two-thirds of the most abundant element on earth–water. It is no surprise that hydrogen fuel technology is gaining recognition as the greenest fuel of them all. In fact, your car can run on hydrogen better than it does with gas. Why Should You Do a Hydrogen DIY Car Conversion?The first question you need answering is why to convert your car to run on hydrogen? Because, it is better for your car, better for the environment, and saves you a lot of money on gasoline or diesel fuel. Hydrogen cars use distilled water and an electrolyte to separate the hydrogen atoms from the oxygen. The pure hydrogen is combustible for your car’s engine, just the same as gasoline. But, unlike gasoline, hydrogen fuel omits nothing but water vapor out of your tailpipe. Hydrogen fuel cells clean out your engine of the gunk and sediment that builds up from refined petroleum combustion. This results in a longer life for your cars engine and better performance. Is Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology New?The history of hydrogen fuel cell technology stretches back to the early 20th century. In 1939, the first hydrogen fuel cell generator was invented by Francis Thomas Bacon. The generator produced 5kW of power. During America’s space race with Russia to the moon, NASA integrated the Gemini and Apollo spacecraft with hydrogen fuel cells in order to power the ships onboard computer. The hydrogen fuel cells on NASA’s spacecraft also functioned to create fresh drinkable water onboard. In the late 1960s, the industrial manufacturing industry began to test the waters, by implementing hydrogen fuel cells to power warehouse forklifts. Most recently, in 2002 the German Navy made a hydrogen fuel cell conversion for powering their U31 submarine. It’s been a long road, but, today we finally see hydrogen fuel cell technology being commercialized. What is a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV)?An FCV is a car which is powered by hydrogen gas. Since cars typically run on liquid gasoline or diesel fuel, FCV’s produce an entirely different system of propulsion. The means of operation for your engine, however, are very similar. Hydrogen gas stored in high-pressure tanks. Gasoline is also stored in a tank, however, it does not need pressurization. When pressurized hydrogen passes through the fuel intake of your car, it combusts just like gasoline or diesel. So–with a few modifications–your car can run on hydrogen better than it runs on gasoline. How Does a Fuel Cell Car Work?A hydrogen fuel cell can provide power to a car in two ways. It can, either: Feed directly into the fuel line, or; Power an electric motor. The former, however, is a much more volatile method. Since the engine of your car can run on hydrogen just as well as gasoline, you can feed the hydrogen gas directly into the fuel intake line. This means that you have an onboard fuel cell that is creating and storing pressurized hydrogen, which the engine draws on as needed. The problem is the safety concerns with having a combustible fuel source inside the cabin. After all, the Hindenburg was hydrogen-powered as well, and that didn’t end well. The far more commercially viable method for running a car on hydrogen is fully electric. Commercial hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV), like the Toyota Mirai, do not create hydrogen onboard. Instead, you fill the fuel tank with hydrogen in the same manner as you would at a gas station. The hydrogen gas goes past a fuel cell, where it converts into energy powering the cars electric motor. At that point, the power of the car comes wholly from the motor–which is charged by the hydrogen fuel. This method of powering cars with hydrogen does not require the fuel to combust at all. In fact, it is the opposite. The fuel cell works to chemically fuse hydrogen and water, creating the electricity used by the motor. The key difference between electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles is the means of energy storage and consumption. A fully-electric vehicle charges an onboard battery, before deleting it and recharging, again. Fuel cell vehicles run steadily, by recharging the battery continuously via the hydrogen fuel cell. When the chemical process is complete, the only byproduct is water vapor. Theoretically, you can shop now for a trailer large enough for a hydrogen fuel cell that will power an entire house–with zero harmful emissions. Can I Do My Own FCV DIY Car Conversion?The biggest obstacle is knowing how to access and modify the settings in the onboard computer of your car. Specifically, any car with an onboard computer is pre-set to only accept gasoline fuel. It is only a question of switching the setting, from ‘Gasoline’ to ‘Continuous’ and your car will run like a champion. By changing the fuel intake setting, your computer will continuously search for a viable fuel. Otherwise–even though the parts in your car want to run fine–the computer will not recognize hydrogen as viable. So, the engine will expend far more fuel than it needs to. Final ThoughtsYour best chance is to find a mechanic who has experience working with cars onboard computers. Once the computer is set to continuous, the hydrogen fuel will work as good as gas. With a few hardware modifications–of course. If you like this article about DIY car conversions, share it with friends on social media. And check out the blog for more information on alternative fuels! The post DIY Car Conversion: How to Convert Your Car to Hydrogen appeared first on Car Repair Information From MasterTechMark. DIY Car Conversion: How to Convert Your Car to Hydrogen posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger DIY Car Conversion: How to Convert Your Car to Hydrogen Buying a car can be fun, but for most, it’s a stressful process. Aside from coming up with money for a new car, they also have to figure out where to shop. Finding the best car dealerships is no simple feat. There’s a lot of businesses out there, and finding the right one for you can be difficult. If you’re dreading the thought of having to find a dealership, don’t worry. Follow our list of 5 tips and you’ll find the car you want in no time. 1. Ask FriendsNever underestimate the power of word of mouth referral when you’re searching for cars. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your personal network to see if they have any recommendations about dealerships. They could know someone that can give you a good deal. When you’re checking in with friends, don’t hesitate to listen to them about dealerships you shouldn’t go to. If they’ve had a bad experience, you could easily have on too. 2. Check ListingsYou may know that you want to buy a Chevy or a Toyota, but you shouldn’t go to the first manufacturer dealership you find. Some dealerships may not have as much in stock as others. That’s why it’s important to do your homework before you make any major purchasing decisions. You can learn more about dealership offerings by giving them a call. Some websites may not be up to date, and you can get more information from a salesman. 3. Read Off-Site ReviewsPlenty of dealerships will have websites that are full of glowing reviews from customers. If you want to learn what people really think, trust Yelp and Google My Business instead of the website. Dealerships can easily pick and choose what reviews they want to display. You’ll get less biased and more truthful reviews on other sites. Don’t just pay attention to whether or not people found the car they wanted. See what they have to say about the helpfulness of the staff. Take time to read reviews that focus on customer service. After you’ve visited the basic sites, take some time to look at the heavy hitters. JD Power can give you great reviews on dealerships and automakers. Also, be sure to check out the Better Business Bureau. 4. Get QuotesIt doesn’t matter if you think you’ve found the perfect dealership. Before you go with one, make sure to shop around and get quotes from other dealerships. When you’re getting quotes, don’t forget to be as specific as possible. Mention that you’re going for the luxury package, or that you’re only looking for cars with a certain amount of mileage. Also, don’t be afraid to ask about other extra services you can get. Some dealerships offer discounts on maintenance and parts like tires. 5. Go Beyond Your TownSome people have trouble finding good dealerships because they’re looking too close to home. Ideally, most people would like to find a dealership that’s close to home. But sometimes it’s worth literally going the extra mile to find a good deal. Don’t limit yourself to just what’s in your town. Feel free to explore your county to see if there are any dealership gems. Going Beyond the Best Car DealershipsNow that you know how to find the best car dealerships, it’s time to focus on how to get the best deal from them. Oftentimes, the sticker price isn’t set in stone. When you know how to haggle, you can save a considerable amount of money on your car. Read our post on negotiating tips so you can make sure that you get a deal you’ll brag about to your friends. The post Buying a Car? 5 Tips for Finding the Best Car Dealerships appeared first on Car Repair Information From MasterTechMark. Buying a Car? 5 Tips for Finding the Best Car Dealerships posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger Buying a Car? 5 Tips for Finding the Best Car Dealerships Car accidents on US roads cause more than 30,000 deaths every year. These deaths are the results of the more than 6 million crashes that occur annually. So, if you’re involved in such accidents, who pays for car accident damage? Well, the short answer is the party at fault will ante up for the damage. It can be an easy process is the party willing admits their mistake. But in some cases, it can be a challenging experience, particularly when dealing with the insurance company. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about accident damage and who pays for it. Keep on reading to learn more! When Another Driver Causes the AccidentIf another driver caused the accident, they are responsible for meeting your car’s repair cost. Most drivers have car insurance plans that will cover such expenses. However, if the driver lacks insurance cover, you can have your car insurer pay the cost if you have collision coverage. Then again, some drivers lack collision coverage. In this case, you’ll try to engage the driver to pay for your car damage repair. As expected, they might not have adequate disposable cash lying around to meet the cost. So, this is going to be a complicated process for you. 1. If the Driver Has InsuranceA covered driver will have something called property damage liability insurance. In this case, the policy covers every property damage that the driver is liable for, and your car can be described as property. In the US, nearly every state has a law that requires drivers to have liability insurance plans. Each state has a minimum coverage requirement with the popular amount being $10,000. Since the insurance is required by law, there are high chances that the driver at fault has insurance plan. So, in this case, if their insurance provider agrees that the driver was at fault, then they will pay for the repair expenses willingly. 2. If the Driver Lacks Insurance, But You Have ItIf the driver at fault doesn’t have an insurance policy or their insurance rejects the claim, you’ll have to reach out to your own insurance company. As noted before, this will only work if you have collision coverage. Collision coverage is also known as no-fault coverage. Basically, your insurance provider pays for the damage regardless of who was at fault. However, keep in mind that the company will not pay the deductible, which is a portion of the payment. For example, let’s say you have collision coverage of $40,000 with a deductible $1,000 and your car damage repair amounts to $10,000. The insurer will pay $9,000, and you’ll pay the $1,000. It’s impossible to get your deductible back if the driver at fault is unable to pay. Or, you can choose to sue them, but this again can be a complicated process. 3. If You Both Lack InsuranceThis can be a complicated scenario when it comes to handling damage repairs. Well, it’s true that the driver at fault should pay for the damages, but you can force them if they don’t have the financial capacity to do so. In such a case, you’re likely to end up paying the cost. You can also sue the driver hoping that they’ll get the money to pay you. If your state allows it, it’s possible to notify the Motor Vehicle Administration or the Department of Motor Vehicles to suspend the driver’s license. You may want to seek legal help to help with paperwork. Be sure to find out more about the process that’s involved after car accidents and how lawyers can help. 4. Both of You Have InsuranceIf you and the at-fault driver have insurance, you can reach out to either of the insurers to pay for the accident damage. However, it’s advised to have the at-fault driver’s insurer to meet the cost because you won’t pay the deductible. Additionally, their insurance company will have to pay for your car rental costs while your car is being repaired. Alternatively, if you have rental reimbursement insurance, you can have your insurance provider to pay for the rental car. Also, if the other driver doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for the damage, it’s wise to have your insurer. When You Cause the AccidentThe situation won’t be very different when you cause an accident. Your insurance company will only pay for the damage cost if you have collision coverage. Bear in mind you still have to pay the deductible. If your insurance plan lacks collision coverage, you have no option but to pay the cost out of pocket. Also, if the damage is not quite significant, just pay the cost out of pocket. Doing so will help to prevent your insurance premiums from going up. It will also be less costly than making a claim against your insurer. In some cases, the repair cost can exceed the value of your car. Your insurer will declare your vehicle a total loss. They’ll pay you the Blue Book value of your car and take possess it. Keep in mind that the amount is based on the current market value of your car. It has nothing to do with the amount you paid initially when buying the car. Accident Damage – Final ThoughtsGetting involved in a car accident can be a very stressful experience. There can be injuries, which will undoubtedly increase the overall costs. One issue you have to deal with is the repair your car accident damage. Basically, the party at fault is responsible for paying the costs. However, the process can be complicated if the driver or their insurance company reject the claim. You may want to seek legal help to ensure the party pays the repair costs. If you’re at fault, you’ll have to pay the amount out of pocket or using your insurance coverage. For more information on car damage repair, be sure to browse our blog for exciting posts. The post Repairing Your Ride: Who Pays for Car Accident Damage? appeared first on YouFixCars.com. Repairing Your Ride: Who Pays for Car Accident Damage? posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger Repairing Your Ride: Who Pays for Car Accident Damage? Did you know that most Americans can’t afford a new car? If you’re one of the many people shopping for a used car, don’t feel bad. If anything, purchasing a used car over a new one is a smarter investment. After the first 12 months of ownership, the value of a new car decreases by 20%. Your new car can even lose its value by 10% every year you own it. If you decide to sell or trade in your new car, you could lose a lot of money. Now that you know it’s better to buy a used car, which car do you buy? Here are the 10 best used cars. The Best Used CarsFrom the safest to the most stylish cars, some cars live out better in their later years than other cars. If you’re looking at any of these makes and models, you’re guaranteed to be satisfied with your purchase. 1. Dodge ChargerDodge is known for its innovative and immense safety features, specifically with the Dodge Charger. That’s why it’s on the top of this list. On average, you can find a decent used Charger for anywhere between $13,000 and $25,000. Which Dodge Charger year should you look for? Many Dodge drivers love the design of the 2011 Charger. 2. Acura TLAcura is a favorite brand because it combines the best of style while serving as the perfect family car. With its design and features, the Acura TL is worth a pretty penny. Earlier used models can run as high as $36,000 but older models sell for as little as $8,000. 3. Ford FocusFord not only boasts some of the most reliable cars on the market, but they also boast some of the most affordable cars. It’s no wonder why Ford sells 1.1 million of the Focus model worldwide. You can buy a used Ford Focus between $8,000 and $15,000. While older models are the cheapest, don’t be afraid to spend a little extra on a newer Focus. 4. Chevrolet CamaroChevrolet came out with their iconic Camaro in 1966. Today, it reigns as one of its best-selling cars. Even though the Camaro is a classic muscle car, newer models come packed with technology and innovative safety features. Find a used Camaro anytime after 2010. Because of it’s legacy and sports car vibes, a used Camaro is the pricier on this list — expect to spend anywhere between $18,000 and $56,000. 5. Toyota HighlanderIf you’re looking for an SUV, look no further than the Toyota Highlander. Toyota is known for its reliable vehicles that you can literally run to the ground (and can last you 200,000 miles and beyond). But the Highlander offers more like an SUV. The Highlander is famous for its fuel-efficiency, saving you lots in gas. 6. BMW 3 SeriesIt’s rare to find a luxury car on a list of “the best used cars,” especially German luxury cars. The maintenance and repairs will cost you big time — at that point, you might as well opt for a cheaper car. However, any of the models in the BMW 3 series are rather affordable to buy and even to maintain — as long as you buy them used and in good condition. 7. Nissan MaximaLike Toyota, Nissan is another car company that’s famous for lasting several thousand miles. Ever since the 1980s, the Maxima has been one of Nissan’s best-selling vehicles and keeps getting more advanced with each passing year. The Maxima is another great car if you want a sporty look while still driving the perfect family car. 8. Ford FusionThe Focus was on this list previously, now it’s time to list another Ford favorite — the Fusion. Like the Focus, the Fusion is another best-selling name for the Ford brand. But why get the Fusion over the Focus? If you want an electric or electric-gasoline hybrid used car, the Fusion should be your first pick. Ford released the first eco-friendly Fusion alternative in 2010, making now the perfect time to find a used electric car. 9. Ford MustangAnother popular sports car that’s making this list is the Mustang. Even with its legacy, you can find a used Mustang for a pretty cheap price. While many used Mustangs are on the market for $60,000, you can find a decent used one for as little as $11,000. On top of that, the Mustang is honestly a good car. Don’t let the striking appearance fool you — the Mustang is powerful and drives smoothly. 10. Honda CR-VWe said Toyota is a car brand that can last 200,000 miles. We can’t leave this list without naming another car brand that can last you a lifetime — Honda. The CR-V has been a popular choice for car owners. It’s packed with safety features, offers the space of an SUV with the compactness of a Sedan, and all sorts of technology. Where to Find Used CarsWhile car shopping is exciting, it also comes with its headaches. Especially when you’re buying a used car. You’re not only worrying about finding a good deal but hoping the owner or dealership isn’t sketchy. Where do you find a used car? The internet is your best first place. There are many websites and classifieds that list used cars for sale in your area. Owners can also place their cars on these websites and you can contact them directly. Just be wary about specific classified websites such as Craigslist. There are also reputable used car dealers that will give a good price on quality used cars. Search here for available cars. Worst come to worst, you can always drive around your city and see if any owners display their cars on the side of the street. Need More Used Car Help?More consumers are shopping for used cars. Now that you know the best used cars you can buy, do you still need help before you buy a vehicle? Don’t make a sale without first reading this used car buyer’s guide. The post Top 10: Best Used Cars To Buy In 2019 appeared first on Car Repair Information From MasterTechMark. Top 10: Best Used Cars To Buy In 2019 posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger Top 10: Best Used Cars To Buy In 2019 While most people look under the hood of their car and have no idea how the whole system works, there are a surprising number of repairs that can be done at home. It’s not as hard as you might think to fix simple issues with the exterior body of your car. Rather than paying for car dent repair, try one of these techniques to repair car dents on your own.
1. Try a PlungerIf you want to fix a dent quickly and easily, you can use something that sits in your bathroom. There are few tools that you have lying around your home that is as perfect for the job as a standard toilet plunger. If you have a small to medium dent in your car and you’re not too worried about the paint damage that could be done to popping it out, grab the plunger. Get some water on the plunger and on the dent and press it against the body until it makes a clear seal. Then you need to carefully pull and push until you get the dent out. If you jerk the plunger around too much, you’ll have trouble getting the dent out. You need to pull on it securely and solidly so that you can firmly get the dent out in one pull. If you pull it out in sections, you risk creating marks that denote that there was a dent there. This method is tried and true, working on any kind of vehicle. 2. Boil Some WaterIf you want to get a dent out easily, one of the best methods is by using boiling water. If you’ve just backed into something, your plastic bumper might have a dent. Thankfully, plastic is malleable and can be impacted by heat and humidity. Pushing out the dent on a bumper is hard without removing the bumper itself. The plastic on a bumper can be extremely stiff, so you need a solution that’s possible without taking the car apart. Boiling water is free and easy and can get the job done without hassle. After you pour water on the dent, carefully reach behind the bumper and try to pop the dent out. The heat will make the plastic softer and more flexible. Once softened, it should be easy to push it back into place. The heat won’t last very long so work fast to push it out. Repeat the method until the dent is all the way out. 3. Do It with AirIf you have a dent in the plastic material on the exterior of your car, you can fix the problem with the help of a hair dryer and some compressed air. These two items can do a lot to fix dents in the plastic portions of your vehicle. Heat up the dent with the hair dryer at the highest temperature you can set it at. Move it around carefully so that you do so evenly. This causes the material of the plastic to expand and be ready to be shaped. Then, take the can of air and spray the same section of the car. Believe it or not, that quick jump in temperature can fix dents. The cold air is going to cause the plastic to contract quickly to its “natural” factory-made shape. Rather than going to a body shop and potentially spending hundreds of dollars to have them do the same thing, save your dollars and get a can of air and try this at home. It could save you plenty of money and make you feel like a genius. 4. A Vacuum Cleaner Can HelpSimilar to a plunger, you can get a dent out with the help of suction. However, your arms combined with a plunger don’t bring the kind of power that a dent puller can bring. A vacuum is a powerful suction tool but might not be able to conjure the power that you need without some help. If you have a small bucket or a pot that you can bore a hole into, attach your vacuum extension tool and you have a powerful tool for sucking dents out. With this homemade tool, you’ll suck out dents and get your car back to its ideal look. Add some tape around the hose from your vacuum to make a better seal around the pot. Add some more tape around the bucket where it meets the body of the car. If you can, mount it before you turn your vacuum on so that you can pop out your dent. 5. Avoid Damage With Hot GlueWhen you’re taking on any of these at-home remedies for removing dents, you run the risk that your car could turn out damaged. It’s challenging to take out a dent without chipping or ruining your paint job. The best way to do it may be to use some small but thick wooden dowels, hot glue, and some screws. Add screws or nails to the dowels to create handles, much like a corkscrew. Glue some dowels all around the dent and keep them there until they’re dry. When they’re dry, pull on each one hard until the dent pops out. It’ll take a lot of glue and a lot of patience, but it’s well worth the trouble. If the damages to your vehicle are beyond these simple at-home repairs and you’d rather bring it to a shop because someone hit you, learn more here. Car Dent Repair Can Be EasyWhile some people get upset when they see their car is damaged, it turns out that car dent repair isn’t as hard as you’d think. You can fix dents in your car with no trouble at all if you know what you’re doing. If it’s time to repair your headlights, check out our guide for tips.
The post Fix It and Forget It: How to Perform Your Own Car Dent Repair appeared first on YouFixCars.com. Fix It and Forget It: How to Perform Your Own Car Dent Repair posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger Fix It and Forget It: How to Perform Your Own Car Dent Repair Although buying a used car is a clever way to save money, it takes more time and effort to get a good deal than when buying a new one. The moment someone drives their brand new purchase out of the showroom, it starts to depreciate fast. It’s clever to let someone else take the steep depreciation heat by owning your dream car for a few years. How will ensure you save a fortune when it comes to buying a used car? Well, that will squarely depend on how you choose a used car. Make the wrong choice, and that brand new car you avoided will seem like a deal in hindsight. Read this used car buyer’s guide to help you make the right choice. 1. What’s Your Budget?You need to first set your budget. Setting the budget goes beyond just looking for a car with a reasonable monthly payment. You need to consider the entire price of the vehicle, including the total of funding the purchase and remember the possibility that it may require costly repairs in the future. An older car will likely be sold at a lower price. This seems attractive but unfortunately, such a car is likely to require expensive repairs. Does this mean you should go for newer ones? The trick is to strike a balance that will make sure you don’t lean too much towards any side. A seemingly sweet deal won’t seem any sweet when you’re stuck waiting for a tow service instead of rushing to the interview. 2. Make a list of Must-Have FeaturesThis is a list that will help you pick your car. How do you intend to use this car? Is it for family use? Is speed your top priority? Is safety your main concern? Do you want enough room for your friends plus adequate cargo space to accommodate all your camping stuff? Your needs will determine the must-have features. Using the above list, narrow your search to focus on models with those features. You can shop now from this wide selection of both new and used cars. 3. Check the PriceOnce you find a car that meets your expectation, use the online pricing guide to establish the estimated value of the specific car. The pricing guide estimates the market value of used cars using factors such as mileage, age, and options. Therefore, as you check the price, make sure to include: Year, make and model information of the car: Some of the pricing websites used the word ‘trim level’ to refer to the model. Mileage: The price of a car is usually adjusted according to its mileage. Standard annual mileage is about 120,000 miles. Anything less or more will definitely influence prices. General Condition of the Vehicle: Be keen as you include the condition level as the difference between ‘outstanding’ and ‘clean’ for instance could easily be above $ 1000. Options: This refers to the unique features installed when the vehicle was manufactured. Features such as navigation system influence the price of the car. Most pricing guides have divided their search into two categories. If the seller is your friend or neighbor, search on ‘Private Party’ category. If you intend to buy from a dealer, search on the ‘Dealer Retail’ category. Using the price guide, you can also know what the vehicle is worth as a trade-in. 4. Locate the CarDo you have any idea where you’re going to find a used car in your area? Do you want to use the traditional way of asking ‘around’ or simply go online? Going online is quick and you have a high chance of getting exactly what you want. When conducting an online search, you can filter your search by factors such as price and features, the car’s mileage and the dealer’s distance from your home. There are so many websites for used-car, and each website has its unique feature. 5. Inspect the CarThis is where the fun begins. Will you get exactly what you saw online? Is the car a comfortable fit? Are the seats in the right shape or are they torn? Inspect the ceiling, the doors, and the floors. Are there stains or tears? Are you comfortable with how the car smells? Does it smell of mildew or cigarette? Some of these smells are difficult to remove. Now, inspect the exteriors. What’s the condition of the tires, the muffler, and the car lights? Are there dents, scratches or evidence of repair? Check the bumpers, the trim, and the paint job. Inspect the car’s engine. If you see a dirty engine, it’s likely that the car is poorly maintained. If you see oil on the engine, it’s likely there are leaks. Washed-out belts and hoses can be expensive to fix, and it’s an indicator the car was poorly maintained. 6. Request for Vehicle History ReportBefore you jumped inside the car to take that much-anticipated test drive, ask the seller to give you vehicle history report. This report will reveal if the car has a clean title or has been involved in any major accidents. If you doubt the seller’s report, you can get yours. You just need the vehicle’s identification number (VIN) to conduct your own search online. The vehicle history report will indicate if the car has a salvage title. These are cars that were involved in a terrible accident but they are still drivable. Insurance companies brand such cars as ‘’salvage’’ to alert potential buyers. Avoid cars with a salvage title because the car might have hidden complications plus such cars have no resale value. You need to invest in a car with resale value. 7. Time for a Test DriveHere comes the most anticipated hour. Until now, you are yet to drive the car you’ve chosen. This is the hour to decide if this particular vehicle is worth your dollars. Choose a route that is a ‘cocktail’ of terrain: Stretch of the highway, rough pavement, hills, and even hills. Switch off the radio- it’s time to put your ears to better use. Do you hear any unusual vibrations or noises as you drive? Are the brakes responsive and reliable? Can you reach all the controls and gauges without difficulties? What is your visibility like? When negotiating sharp corners, does the steering still feel strong? Does the car have power when dealing with hills? After this drive, blast the music system and check if Bluetooth connects to your devices. Has This Used Car Buyer’s Guide Helped You Get the Car of Your Dream?Hold on, don’t be in a hurry since there is one more thing from this used car buyer’s guide you need to know. Before assuming ownership, you should add this car to your insurance policy. Ensure the seller signs the title correctly. You can now pay for the car but only if you have no doubt. Sign the sales contract and drive your car home. You’re welcome to check out our blog on negotiation tips for buying a car from a dealership. The post Your Best Used Car Buyer’s Guide of 2019 appeared first on Car Repair Information From MasterTechMark. Your Best Used Car Buyer’s Guide of 2019 posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger Your Best Used Car Buyer’s Guide of 2019 Springtime is here, so start by congratulating your vehicle: it got you through another winter! With the snows melting away and the sweltering summer heat fast approaching, it’s time to give your vehicle the attention it deserves: most importantly, checking car fluids. Ever since vehicles have been around, owners have been finding ways to neglect maintenance. Reasons given are often centered around general insecurities and lack of knowledge about basic car care. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Basic car maintenance is not as scary as it looks, and even if you know absolutely nothing, there are still simple, common sense oriented things you can do and be aware of to keep your car running smoothly. The general credo goes “if you treat your car right, your car will treat you right”. This could not be truer! For example, did you know that just doing basic maintenance (among other little things) can increase fuel efficiency? Always helpful, especially with the annual summer surge of gas prices coming quickly! How To Check Car FluidsWhile the types and colors of various fluids will often differ, you should always be confident in your ability to do a basic fluid check of all the systems you will find under the hood of virtually every make and model around. Here’s all the info you need to learn how to check car fluids: Engine OilThis is the most basic one, and often considered the most important, for good reason! Your engine oil is essentially lubrication for your vehicles internals. Oil absorbs heat from the engine and allows your engine to run smoothly without overheating. Like anything else, oil is not indestructible. It wears out over time, accumulates grime and dirt from your engine, and just generally is not as effective after a certain amount of time or miles driven. With the exception of a few makes and models, all cars have a yellow dipstick under the hood that will allow you to check your oil quickly and easily. Be certain that your car is on level ground, and has been shut off for at least a few minutes prior to checking the dipstick. This allows the oil to: (1) Settle from circulation, so you can get an accurate read of the oil level, and (2) Cool off, so you don’t forever ruin your skin by touching scalding hot oil! Once you can safely check the oil, remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. We do this so that we can obtain a “fresh”, or new, oil reading. The dipstick itself should have markings at the end to indicate various levels of oil (minimum, half, full). Oil that is too high can be just as bad, if not worse, than oil that is too low, so don’t try to overcompensate if you have one or the other! Should the oil be too high, it would be prudent to get some out; if it is too low, you want to add more. In any event, if the oil is not clean, you should change it. But how do you know when the oil is unclean? Well, the color! New oil will often have a golden hue to it, not so much unlike honey or amber color. Old oil will look dark, often being brown or sometimes black. If your oil looks like this, change it. Remember that changing your oil will never harm your car, but not changing it absolutely can and will ruin your vehicle eventually. CoolantWhile lesser known, coolant (radiator fluid) is also of vital importance to your car. In a nutshell, it keeps your car from getting too hot. While coolant comes in a few different colors, a good rule of simplicity is to look up what kind of fluid your car needs, and then use the same color so as not to confuse yourself with mixes of colors! You can find the coolant reservoir under the hood with a cap on it. Never check the fluid when hot or running. You unscrew the cap and look into the reservoir to see the level. Most reservoirs have markings to indicate the level. If you cannot see the level in the reservoir, you may need to add some coolant. Low levels of coolant in your vehicle can spell disaster for your engine, due to the risk of overheating of the engine. In a worst case scenario, you can seize the engine, ruining it forever. If you find that your coolant level is still low after adding some in, you may have a coolant leak. Some leaks require parts and labor to fix, while other leaks can be remedied with stop-leak or sealant products such as Irontite. While the risk of low coolant is much greater than the risk of too much coolant, it is important to make sure the coolant level is not too high either. High levels of coolant can lead to an overflow of the reservoir, which in turn can spill the corrosive liquid all over vital parts of your engine. Not good! Power Steering FluidThis is the fluid that allows you to turn your steering wheel with a single pinky instead of all the muscles in your body! Do not check this fluid while running. You can find the reservoir under the hood, and it normally has markings on the cap to note the level of the reservoir. Steering fluid is often described as having a white wine-esque or even a pink color. If you do not have enough steering fluid, you may ruin your power steering, often requiring extensive repair. There are various signs and sounds associated with power steering issues, and various parts that go into a steering system. Brake FluidBrake fluid assists your foot action when you step on the brakes, helping you stop easier. Brake fluid is normally clear, with a little bit of a honey hue sometimes. It is very corrosive, so be careful! If your brake fluid is dark, it may be time to change it. You can normally find a reservoir under the hood on the firewall, with markings to indicate both that it is brake fluid and the level of the fluid. The obvious risk associated with a lack of brake fluid is (you guessed it) loss of brakes! Windshield Wiper FluidPerhaps the least important, but the most convenient! Windshield wiper fluid is simply what you squirt on your windshield in order to clean off bugs and debris. The color is normally blue but can vary. There are no serious risks with running out of windshield wiper fluid, but it can be annoying if you don’t have any when a big bug hits your windshield! Some people even substitute plain water for the fluid. It works, albeit not as well. Learn More About Maintaining Your CarTired of letting mechanics charge you insane amounts for what seem to be simple fixes? We have solutions for engine troubles, offer owner manuals for all kinds of makes, and have all kinds of great tips and advice in our blog to help you treat your car the way it deserves. The post Spring Maintenance 101: How to Check Car Fluids appeared first on YouFixCars.com. Spring Maintenance 101: How to Check Car Fluids posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger Spring Maintenance 101: How to Check Car Fluids Buying a car from a dealership is stressful. You’re up against a master negotiator that wheels-and-deals hundreds of cars per year. You likely negotiate on one car every ten years—if that. The deck is not exactly stacked in your favor. Are you looking for ways to make the odds a little more even? Maybe you’re a nervous negotiator and are looking for tips to ease the art of haggling. Either way, these 3 tips will guarantee you a smoother, more enjoyable new-car negotiation. Check them out before you go to the dealership. Tip #1: Research, Research, ResearchTechnology has made being a knowledgeable consumer very easy. Pick your web browser of choice and start researching. You can do all the leg-work before you ever make it to a dealership. Before you get talked into features you don’t want or need, make sure you know what you’re looking for in your next vehicle. You can walk into a dealership with specific questions, an idea of the asking price, and a solid grasp on how much you’re willing to spend on what features. Being a knowledgeable consumer gives you power. You won’t get taken advantage of by a salesperson. You may even get a better deal because you understand what you want and what you’re willing to spend. Researching also helps you avoid dealerships with bad histories. Check out reviews and be on the watch for places with a trend of unhappy customers. Better yet, look for a dealership with a history of happy customers—such as this dealership. Tip #2: Get Pre-Approved FinancingGo to your local credit union, bank, or another lender. Find out what you qualify for. You should know your credit score and have an idea of your monthly budget. After all, you’ll now have a car payment to attend to. Talk to a loan officer and find out what kind of deal the bank is willing to give you. Then, go talk to the dealership. The dealership wants you to go through them for financing. Having a pre-approved loan from another institution gives you bargaining power. You’ll get a better deal if you know you have a fallback plan. You won’t get as easily swayed by fast talking and scary-sounding numbers. Tip #3: Be Prepared to WalkThis is not the only dealership in town. This is not the only new car that will work for you. Be prepared to walk away from a bad deal. Walking away will guarantee you get the right car for your needs. Like the first two tips, this is because you have leverage. You are not subject to any dealership’s prices. Go shop somewhere else. I bet you’ll find a better deal down the road. Buying a Car From a Dealership? You Got This!Don’t be intimidated by buying a car from a dealership! With these 3 tips in mind, you’re sure to find the car of your dreams within your budget. The more negotiating leverage you have, the more the deck is stacked in your favor. For more information on the negotiating process, and how a trade-in may help, check out this guide to getting a great deal on a car! The post 3 Negotiating Tips For Buying a Car From a Dealership appeared first on Car Repair Information From MasterTechMark. 3 Negotiating Tips For Buying a Car From a Dealership posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger 3 Negotiating Tips For Buying a Car From a Dealership Wouldn’t it be nice if vehicles appreciated, like real estate? Instead, transportation is a big expense for anyone. With so many options, choosing the best car for your stage of life means a headache and a half. You don’t want to throw money away on an unreliable purchase. If you’re trying to channel some of your grandparents’ wisdom and make the right car choice, check out our ultimate list of vehicles that hold their value. 1. JeepsWhile a Wrangler isn’t the luxury car you’ve always dreamed of owning, it’s sporty and fun. And the most important thing is it keeps its resale value. There are enough Jeep enthusiasts and off-roading clubs that #Jeeplife keeps your vehicle in business. In fact, you might start there when you’re ready to sell. You never know who’s in the market for their next mudding vehicle. 2. Toyota TrucksYou might expect most Japanese vehicles to top the list of value-holders, but at the tippy top? The trucks dominate. Both the Toyota Tacoma and the Tundra depreciate less than other vehicles. Whether you need title loans to help afford these or not, they are a great choice when it comes to getting more for your money. And if you have any hauling or moving to do, a pickup can hold a lot more than a sedan. 3. Chrysler PacificaIf you’re considering a minivan instead of an SUV, this would be a good way to get your money’s worth. Having a family is expensive, and you could get more of those precious dollars back when you’re ready for another vehicle with the Pacifica. This particular minivan wins the prize for look and feel, extra features and technological amenities, and spacious seating or cargo room. No wonder everyone’s willing to pay for a used one. 4. Other PickupsYou may spend more at the outset for a truck over a sedan, but the Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, and RAM 1500 all hold value more than most cars. Besides for towing capacity, many trucks also have room for families now. Don’t discount the potential in a pickup before you consider all the options. Test drive one and compare it to the other vehicles in the running. It may surprise you how much you love this vehicle. 5. Subaru ImprezaThis brand has always hailed as reliable and hardy. The Impreza is a smaller vehicle, and it comes with All-Wheel Drive as a standard feature. You can get a sedan or a hatchback, and either will hold its value better than most vehicles until you’re ready to sell. Other Vehicles That Hold Their ValueIf none of those strike your fancy, here are a few close runner ups that you might like. These also hold their value, so when you’re ready for a change, you don’t lose too much in depreciation.
Choosing your next vehicle can be a stressful decision. Take some of the chaos out by narrowing it down to the ones that you’ll get the most back for the next time you need a new vehicle. A Good InvestmentLooking at vehicles that hold their value helps narrow down your search for your next car. Larger vehicles, while not everyone’s immediate first choice, are some of the top value-holders and they’re worth your attention. For more car tips, like getting a good deal when you trade in, read more of our blog. The post Money Well Spent: 5 Vehicles That Hold Their Value appeared first on Car Repair Information From MasterTechMark. Money Well Spent: 5 Vehicles That Hold Their Value posted first on https://jacobslowpriceautoglass.blogspot.com via Blogger Money Well Spent: 5 Vehicles That Hold Their Value |
StarrMotors
Hello, I'm Automotive freak who enjoys examining and expounding different types of vehicles. Being automobile engineer we give helpful security and spending assurance benefits for customers when they buy new or utilized autos. We restructure all types of automobiles, maintain it and sell it for vulnerable price.. Vehicles should be kept up each year. The oil should be changed routinely, channels refreshed, tires turned or changed to give some examples things.Some people own a vehicles and think that regular check ups for their vehicle is not necessary, But it is. Personal Links |