Are You Really Safe From Carjackers?

Carjacking. What is it? Well, it is a crime of motor vehicle theft. Most of the time, a carjacker is armed so much so that the owner of the driver of the car is forced out of the vehicle. 

Aside from the fact that you may never see your vehicle again, carjacking could also be very hazardous to both your physical safety as well as the carjacker’s. You see, if you are the victim, you may try to maneuver your way out and in the process run the carjacker over. On the other hand, the carjacker could use their weapon and try shooting you. They also try pushing the occupant out of the car. 

If you are simply going to park your car, make sure that you park it somewhere that has lots of lights. Also, be sure that it is a busy area with plenty of motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic. If possible, try parking somewhere that is very close to your destination. The more people around, the lesser the chances of a carjacker striking and working up the nerve to attack your car. 

Also, make sure that everything valuable is hidden. Keep your windows rolled up and check all doors and windows before leaving the car. Make sure everything is locked up. And when you are going back to your car, have your keys handy. These carjackers could attack when you are posed trying to search for your keys. Be on the alert always. 

On the other hand, if you are on the road, make sure that your car is always well-maintained. This assures you that the chances of your car breaking down are slimmer. Cars that have broken down are the usual targets for carjackers. Driving should also be something to plan ahead of time. It would be best if you try going through routes that are busy and well-lit. 

The center lane is more safe. Remember that once you get stuck in traffic, the carjackers would have to go though a tough time first before they actually reach your car.

Performance Parts

In the automotive industry, the term ‘performance parts’ is used for a variety of car and truck parts or accessories, that are designed to enhance a vehicle’s performance. The term is generally tied to the aftermarket industry which makes sense considering that car or truck enhancement parts or accessories are typically purchased after the original purchase. This is not to say that O.E.M. manufacturers won’t create performance parts, because they often do.

Products such as Borla Exhausts, K&N Air Intake filters, ReadyLift Suspension Kits, or Bilstein shocks are considered performance parts because they are created to enhance car or truck performance. On the other hand, the O.E.M. exhaust, intake filter, suspension kit, or shocks that come with the newly purchased vehicles are generally stock parts designed to meet standards at a reasonable price. Someone looking to boost their car or truck’s performance will then purchase an aftermarket part designed to boost performance.

Strictly being aftermarket however, does not categorize a car or truck part or accessory as a performance part. Aftermarket products may include seat covers, car covers, bumpers, sun visors, make-specific paraphernalia (such as TRD’s line of Toyota® accessories), and steering wheel covers. These products are based on aesthetics, comfort, or brand loyalty, not performance. This would make them a car or truck accessory, but not a performance part.

Performance Parts may also play slightly different but overlapping roles from one car or truck to another. For example, K&N’s quality oil and air filtration products are available for virtually every modern vehicle under the sun. However, while lift kits tend to be popular among Ford®, Chevy®, Dodge® and Toyota® truck owners, you are unlikely to see a demand from Mercedes-Benz® or Porsche® owners. This isn’t to say that popular Porsche® and Mercedes® parts (aftermarket at least) are always different from the more popular truck performance parts. Manufacturers are starting to notice and react to new consumer demands. For example, Borla, known for its quality SUV and Truck exhausts, made the cross over and began to offer exhaust systems for Porsche® and Corvette® a few years ago.

Tire Maintenance Critical To Keep Your Car Rolling Smoothly

By properly maintaining your tires, you could potentially be avoiding uneven wear, poor performance and possibly even a blowout.  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, tire failures or blowouts are believed to contribute to over 400 deaths and 10,000 injuries in the United States every year.  Even with those figures being made public, the surprising factor is that statistics have shown some drivers still fail to follow the basic tire maintenance guidelines that could help to prevent such occurrences.  

In addition to overloading, under-inflation is one of the leading causes of tire failure.  Simply put, this means putting too much air or not enough into the tires.  Either of these can cause stress and excessive heat, which can lead to tire problems and may even result in a blowout or a car crash.  

Many do not realize how much the change in outdoor temperature can actually affect a car, but it can.  In fact, it can even affect the rate at which tires lose air and this is especially true during the warm spring and summer months.  During a normal month, tires will lose approximately one or two pounds of pressure.  During the warmer months, that number is even greater.  The best way to avoid any tire-related mishap is to check your tire’s pressure every time you fill up your car’s fuel tank.  At the very least, tire pressure should be checked once every month and prior to leaving for a long road trip.  If you are uncomfortable checking the tires yourself, simply stop by the local auto repair shop and ask for assistance.  

If you do have a blowout while driving, it is crucial that you not panic and slam on the breaks.  This may be the first instinct, but it is a very bad move.  In doing so, you may end up causing your car to swerve and potentially put you at risk for a much more serious accident.  Instead, gradually apply the break until you have regained control over the vehicle.  At that time, slowly guide your car to a safe area as far away from the road as possible.  

The best way to avoid any type of tire failure is to take the appropriate steps to ensure they are in the best working condition possible.  This would include regular inspections and checking the air pressure often.  With the proper maintenance, a potential problem can be diagnosed before it occurs and will help to ensure you and your family will arrive at your destination safely.

5 Practical Ways To Check A Used Car

Since its inception, the market of used cars has suddenly escalated at an unprecedented rate for the past few years. In fact, surveys show that the number of people who buy used cars is almost tripled when compared to the number of people who buy new cars.

That is why many people are enticed to buy used cars because it is gradually becoming a trend in the car buying industry.

However, it does not necessarily mean that buyers will just take the process of selecting used cars for granted. Hence, it is important to take note of the ways to check the car prior to the closure of the deal.

Therefore, for people who wish to know the different ways on checking the condition of the used car, here are some pointers:

1. Test drive

There is no better way to check the condition of the car than to do a test drive. In this way, the buyer will be able to know the actual condition of the car and its parts like the brakes, accelerator, etc.

Also, the buyer will be able to detect at once if there are some “clunks” and rattles on the used car, even if the test drive is just a short trip.

2. Personal inspection

Aside from test-driving, it is also important for the buyer to personally inspect the details of the body make-up and its condition.

In this manner, the buyer will be able to identify any signs of rusts and damages, the condition of the tires, oil leaks, etc.

3. Mileage check

Usually, an average user or driver will consume 12,000 to 15,000 miles in a year. In this way, the buyer will be able to know the approximate age of the car by looking at its mileage.

4. Mechanic check

Another way of checking the condition of a used car prior to its purchase is to seek the help of a mechanic. This may cost the buyer some charges but the money would surely be spent for a good cause. The mechanic is the best person who could instantly assess technically and professionally the condition of a certain car.

5. CARFAX Report

Knowing the history of the car is also one of the best ways to know the real condition of the car. Hence, it is important for the buyer to seek the help of CARFAX report in order to know the full details of the used car’s history.

Take the proper steps and research your purchase. Doing so will guarantee a happy car buying experience.

Snow and Your Car

Welcome to Winter! Snow, ice, and cold can be especially challenging to the body and mind, as well as to important items in your life, including your car. Is your vehicle ready for winter? If not, there are some things you can do to help ensure that your car will start on cold mornings and survive even the nastiest winter weather.

Check under the hood. Make sure that your battery and all of its connections are clean and fastened; hoses and belts securely in place; your oil and oil filter changes up to date; your air filter clean; the radiator flushed and refilled; and your engine well tuned. One of the biggest contributors to a car not starting is the battery. If it is old and needs to be replaced, do it now before you take that long trip.

Look at the windshield. Besides obvious cracks in your windshield which you can have replaced, make certain that the wiper bay is free of debris. Ice and snow can freeze your wipers in place making them completely ineffective. Never pour hot water on a windshield to remove ice. You will remove ice all right…and crack the glass in the process!

Observe the tires. Properly inflated all season tires are usually all that you need for winter driving. In some areas, however, chains may be required. Keep a set in your trunk for emergency purposes.

Carry an emergency kit. It doesn’t take much to get stranded during winter. Even the best maintained vehicle can get caught in a snow bank or stuck in a ditch. Carrying a fully charged cell phone for emergency purposes is essential when driving anywhere uninhabited. The following items should be a part of an emergency kit you have stored in your vehicle at all times:

*Flash light with spare batteries

*Jumper cables

*Tire chains

*Ice scraper/brush

*Sand or kitty litter for traction

*Auto tools

*Wire coat hanger

*Flares

*Candles, matches

*Distress sign

*Medical kit

*Gas line antifreeze; ice lock antifreeze spray

If you frequently travel back roads and find yourself in remote areas, carrying an extra set of hats, gloves, and coats as well as several blankets is wise. Some people carry chocolate with them at all times which can be a great [and delicious!] energy booster as well as fresh water [don’t leave it in the car as it will get frozen].  

If you find yourself stuck in snow, make sure that the exhaust pipe is free of all snow if you run your car while idled. Keep a window cracked open to allow for air to circulate; turn the engine off every ten minutes for a half hour or more to prevent carbon monoxide build up inside of the car.

You can survive the hazards of winter by taking a little extra care and caution. Properly equip your car today to ensure that your next trip is a safe one regardless of the prevailing road and weather conditions.

Top 9 Japanese Automakers

Japanese built and designed cars have flooded the North American market for over forty years now. Over time, many nameplates have come and gone, but Japanese cars continue to gain market share and acceptance with a growing number of motorists attracted to their high quality and durability. There are nine Japanese automobile manufacturing companies in existence. Can you name them? Let’s take a look at the list:

Toyota – The second largest automaker in the world is Toyota, maker of the Camry, the Corolla, and a host of SUVs, trucks, passenger cars, and a van. Toyota’s Lexus division produces luxury cars, while its Scion division manufactures youth oriented vehicles.

Honda – The Accord and the Civic are Honda’s two most well known models, followed by the Odyssey minivan, the Ridgeline truck, the Element, and several other passenger vehicles. Acura is the name given to Honda’s luxury car division.

Nissan – Drive a Datsun and then decide. Up until the early 1980s, Nissan’s North American nameplate was Datsun, but was switched to Nissan to give it a more global name. The Sentra, Maxima, and Pathfinder are amongst the division’s best selling vehicles. Infiniti is Nissan’s luxury car division. Renault Motors of France owns a controlling interest in Nissan.

Mitsubishi – Originally imported exclusively by Chrysler, Mitsubishi began to sell cars under its own name in the 1980s. Top selling models include the Lancer, the Eclipse, and the Montero. DaimlerChrysler owns a chunk of the company.

Mazda – The Tribute, Miata, and the “6” are some of the most well known Mazda models. The Mazda 6’s platform also powers several Ford Motor Company cars including the Mercury Milan. Ford owns an important stake in the company.

Subaru – Think all wheel drive and you may just think Subaru. The Forester, Outback, and Legacy are all top selling Subaru models. Fuji Heavy Industries [FHI] owns Subaru; General Motors has a 20 percent stake in FHI.

Suzuki – 20% owned by General Motors, Suzuki is as noted for producing cars as it is for manufacturing motorcycles. The Grand Vitara is one of its most noted models.

Isuzu – Did someone say General Motors? Again, GM owns a stake in Isuzu. At one time Isuzu imported cars to the US, but those days are over. Currently, Isuzu has a miniscule presence and the two vehicles they do sell – the Ascender SUV and I Series pick ups – are simply rebadged GMC vehicles.

Daihatsu – The Charade and Rocky were two models introduced by Daihatsu when the car company started selling vehicles in North America in 1988; four years later its North American operations were closed. In 1999, Toyota assumed controlling interest over the company.

So, there you have it: there are nine Japanese automakers, two of which are still independent. Much like the American market further consolidation is likely with nameplates disappearing entirely just like the Packard, Hudson, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, and a host of other North American nameplates have driven off into the history books.

Online Auto auction - Get the Best Deals

Online auto auctions are becoming highly popular in this new era of computer and internet technology. Buying a used or new car has always been a tricky business. There is a long list of options available to choose from. This difficulty is compounded by the little time available for to the prospective buyers in general, to make a thorough analysis and judicial choices. Thankfully the online auctions are at help today. By carrying out a simple hunt on your internet, one can benefit from these great cars available in all kinds and price range. Car-Auction has a database full of thousands of different cars waiting for the bid. One can convert their dream car to reality by purchasing it from government & surplus auctions!

In the world of computers and globalization, one can participate in the auctions while sitting comfortably in their home or office chair. Online auction have became very trendy on the web. In fact, it has helped those people who are millionaires and have an obsession of buying sports and others cars to show off. In the era of e-commerce, these online auction sites provide a user friendly and safe alternative. Buyers can make their entire bid in real time, enabling one to bid with the full confidence. This saves the commuting time and provides more variety and options to choose from. While auctioning, one can scroll through the entire catalogs and other lists of cars and other vehicles, without being physically present at that place.

Online auto auctions were brought up by Byers Automotive. This services offers quality pre-owned vehicles and some highly wanted and special vehicles. Online auction keep on updating their sites for their clients. Online auto auction from Byers are user friendly and absolutely free of cost. They charge no registration fee and offer 24X7 services to their users.

Online auctions are also used for inter-state auto auction. You can also book your bidding amount in advance for the auction. Your authenticity and security is maintained. One simply needs to go to their online catalog before the auction and then set-up a proxy bid.

When a proxy bid is placed on an item before sale, your bid is recorded and stored in the proxibid database, which is specially designed for this purpose. Moreover, if one’s bid is outbid by any other bidder, the person is notified by an automatic notice via email that he is no longer leading the bid for the item.

Because of the internet, buying and selling of new as well as old vehicle have taken different prospective. Earlier one has to print an advertisement in newspaper, browsers or pamphlets etc. but now you can give and take all information in just a click away of the mouse. This is a reliable method and saves a lot of time and money.

In the world of e-commerce, online auto auction proves a boon to the people and society as they can get good quality product in cheapest rates, sometimes at discounted rate of 80% to 90% off the original cost.

Luxury and Sports in one package R35/G35 Nissan Skyline

The radical R35 Nissan skyline is completely different to previous models you get the felling that it was Nissans intention to tackle the likes of BMW and Mercedes. Let start with the new shape a very modern design with smooth curves and lines which make it look very European /American.

The front of the car features a huge grill (which is a bit big for my liking) and sexy vertical style headlights. Moving to the side view the car looks very bulky with huge doors and smooth enlarged guards which look a lot less deliberate than that of a GTR. From the rear to the car looks great with twin exhaust tips and LED brake lights, but much to my disappointment the stove top tail-lights are gone.

The interior of the car looks great and again has a European feel about it. This Skyline has much more leg room than previous models but due to the sloping room there is little heat room in the back for tall passengers. Airbags are standard of course, along with a 6 stack cd player, and climate control. All controls are at arms reach and are very easy to use.

This Nissan skyline shares the same layout and engine as the 350Z but has a more luxurious style about it. The wheel base is slightly longer and the ride is more comfortable because of this the 350z is probably a slightly better performer. A 3.5L V6 replaces the aging RB engine and let me tell you it's a beauty, with 206kw @ 6000rpm and Nm at 4'800rpm. This engine performs and sounds fantastic the RB engine was good but you just can't beat the throttle response of an NA.

The new platform ignores the notion that 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution is the key to balanced handling. Nissan has employed a distribution of 53:47 this takes into account the pre-load which occurs when steering into a corner and counterbalances as weight shifts to the rear under acceleration, the result is a more stable feeling car. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) replaces the old HICAS system, using a number of sensors it reduces both under and over-steer by applying brake pressure or cutting power from individual wheels. This technology makes the car very easy drive at the limit.

Over all the R35 Skyline is a fantastic much improved car it has lost some of its hardcore sport-ness but this has been replaced with a more luxurious livable car. I put this car in a different class to that of previous models and place it up their with more luxury sports cars like BMW and Audi. I believe the R35 Nissan Skyline appeals to a larger audience which is good news for Nissan. For pictures, videos and more information about this skyline and more I recommend you visit http://nissanskyline.6te.net.


Glenn Munn
Skyline enthusiast

After market parts explained

For a passive buyer, these things are but ordinary terms used in the automotive market but for someone meticulous and who wants the best for his auto, these things matter considerably. Deciding which among these to purchase is just like deciding what car to buy.

O.E.M. stands for Original Equipment Manufactured. This means that OEM Ford parts are manufactured by Ford itself, Chevrolet parts are manufactured by Chevrolet, Toyota parts by Toyota, BMW parts by BMW and so on. The terms O.E.S. and OE are also used; these mean Original Equipment Supplied and Original Equipment, respectively. While in many cases, OEM and OES mean the same, OE is more general referring to any part that came as original equipment on the car. Some of OE car parts and components are not actually made by the car manufacturer but are purchased and assembled by the automakers to create a vehicle.

Those referred to as “aftermarket auto parts” are not made by the original car manufacturer; furthermore, they are bought and added to the vehicle only at the dealership or after the vehicle left the dealership. In terms of design and function, aftermarket products are almost the same as the stock auto parts since they are primarily used to replace a damaged original part so that the vehicle can continue to run. If you need replacement parts for your car, however, you can either buy O.E.M. or aftermarket auto parts. There are numerous sources of aftermarket auto parts. Stores like Auto Parts Discount give you a great variety of parts for almost all makes and models.

Some cars, especially the base models are not completely equipped so users just add aftermarket parts later on. For example if you have purchased an old Toyota Corolla, you can add aftermarket Toyota fog lights, Toyota spoiler, Toyota turn signal light or Toyota mirrors. Aftermarket products can also help you give your car a fresh new look. Even if your original parts are not yet damaged or worn out, you can replace them with or add specially designed aftermarket auto parts like Honda taillights, Ford center cap, Chevrolet chrome bumper, and Mercedes Benz Front Cover Towing Eye found at Auto Parts Discount.

Enthusiasts, on the other hand would opt for custom parts and specialty equipments. Compared to a universal fit auto part, which can be installed to any vehicle make, year and model, custom aftermarket products are designed to fit only a particular application. Examples of custom parts are your Ford hood, Ford fender and Ford doors. Specialty equipments on the other hand, are intended to make the vehicle more stylish, comfortable, convenient and more up-to-date.

Most auto users prefer aftermarket products because they are less expensive than OEM replacements. While it is true that there may be some aftermarket auto parts that do not meet high standards of original equipments, it is not right to say that aftermarket products are generally inferior in terms of quality and style. Replacement parts sold at Auto Parts Discount, for example are made by car parts manufacturers that are mandated by high international standards.

Which is better, OEM or aftermarket replacement part? It depends on the product. Some OEM parts are not durable enough while the aftermarket parts you use to replace them could last for many years. If you want to give your car a different look and also, if you want to save, aftermarket products are worth a try. However, make sure to get these replacement parts from trusted sources.