Car Accessory - Supremely Useful

Automotive


One of the dreams harbored by people across the world is to own a car. This is a dream that has always enticed people in all times and ages. Indeed, there is something inherently romantic about cars in that they create a ripple in everyone's heart and create an yearning to own these wonderful machines.
It is a desire that has always been there with humans right from the time these machines were first introduced. In fact, it is the warmth with which the cars are received that emboldens the car manufacturers to come up with newer and better models. However, people would do well to understand that they should pay at least ten per cent of the attention to the car accessory that they spare for cars. This indeed would enhance the utility of car immensely.
The utility of car accessory or parts can be understood by some examples. Take the case of stereo. A super utility device, it ensures that neither boredom nor fatigue set in while one is on a drive, even if the drive is a long one. Similarly roof box also play an important role in enhancing the value of a car immensely. Especially at the time of shifting it proves to be of extreme help.
Similar is the case with mats. Another extremely useful component of the car which does not get the treatment it deserves. It would be interesting to know that contrary to what is widely believed mats are of extreme importance. They after all protect the car from dust, water etc.
The above account should clearly explain the utility of a car accessory and announce to the world that if they don't give as much attention to the accessory as is its due, the utility of car would take a serious beating. It is, therefore, in the best interest of people that they have a fair understanding of different car parts as they can increase the value of cars in a big way.

4 Ways to the Perfect Car Deal

Automotive

Negotiating a Car Deal

If you've purchased a million cars in your life or you've purchased none, you should know by now it's always best to get the most out of your money and nothing comes easier when it comes down to negotiating with a car salesman. Most car dealers run the same setup and in order to get the best deals possible, I'll provide you with some great tips so that you can leave the lot with a great deal.

1. Go in with a plan
   Before you even set foot on a car lot, make sure that you have a set price in your head. If you want to spend ten thousand dollars, make sure that you don't pay any more than this. Let's say your budget is ten thousand dollars. You'll still should be able to check out cars that are in the thirteen-fourteen thousand dollar range. The general rule of thumb is usually that you can go about a few thousand over your set budget. Just remember in the long run that you don't make a purchase more than what you wanted to spend.
   
2. Start off small
   Like any negotiating tactics, you'll always want to start off with a low ball offers. This means that you should offer the least amount possible that you think the dealer will accept. Even if the offer in your head sounds outrageous, it doesn't hurt to try by asking the dealer. The worst that's going to happen is the dealer says no. If the dealer accepts your offer right off the bat, you probably didn't go low enough.
   
3. Patience is your friend
   Be prepared to have a lot of time on your hands. The dealership is there to make a deal and they don't want to see you leave. The problem with this is that you're going to have to make ends meet. Sometimes when you're trying to make a deal with the dealership, you're going to find that it may take up to a hour or so. Just think to yourself and ask if two thousand dollars off the sticker price is worth one hour of your time.
   
4. Don't buy the extras
   Once you reach a deal with the dealership, they are going to push a bunch of other things toward you hoping they will make more money off you. This will usually include things such as warranties, free oil changes, etc. Simply say no to these items because it won't be worth it in the long run. The best line to use when the warranty is brought up is "I'm a mechanic and have always fixed my car" They will usually shut up after that one.
   Trying to get a bargain with a car dealership isn't that hard. It just involves great bargaining skills and a lot of patience. If you're going to show them that you play a hard game, you're most likely to get your deal. Remember in the long run that you won't want to give up and make sure you have a lot of energy to deal with!

The Mythical 100 MPG Carburetor

The Mythical 100 MPG Carburetor
Automotive

OK, who has a 100 mpg carburetor that they are keeping under wraps? Actually, you do.
It is not that Detroit or the oil giants have been hiding a miracle carburetor from us all these years because they are afraid of losing money. The problem is that even with steady advances in engine efficiency over the years, we (the public, the ones with the buying power, you and me!) have squandered those advances with bigger and heavier vehicles filled with all kinds of frills and luxuries.

All that stuff weighs a lot, and that big frame has to push a lot of air out of the way to hurtle down the highway at 75 miles per hour. With present-day technology and a sane vehicle design, a conventional car could easily get 40 or more miles per gallon and a sub-compact could get -- over 100? -- maybe; we should challenge every shade tree tinkerer and big auto manufacturer to try it and see.

Until we demand that the auto makers change their short-sighted habits and produce more efficient vehicles (plug-in hybrids, anyone?), we are stuck with what we have already invested thousands of dollars in that is sitting out there in the driveway. But, there are some simple things we can do to improve our fuel economy:

1. Get a tune-up. New plugs and a clean fuel injection system will improve your mileage immediately.
2. Be sure your tires are properly inflated. The guys at the shop usually put 32 psig in your tires, because that is what they've always done (the ride is a little more comfortable with squishy tires), but you can inflate your tires several psi higher than that and improve your gas mileage by reducing rubber-to-road friction. It will also make your tires last longer.
3. Unload all that unnecessary cargo. If you use your car's trunk as a mini-storage warehouse, you are paying a lot in fuel efficiency to haul all that stuff around. Other than passengers and basic safety equipment, leave the rest behind.
4. When driving around town at low speeds, avoid running your air conditioner. A little wind in your hair is refreshing, anyway.
5. Experiment with your car's performance and find the lowest octane gasoline that you can run effectively with. Most cars do not require high octane gasoline. Burning a lower octane fuel may increase your gas mileage a little or not at all, but it will definitely save you a bundle of money.
6. Don't drive any faster than you really have to. Wind resistance is a huge factor in fuel consumption.
   

Implement these things today and feel good about yourself for decreasing your personal carbon footprint. And start saving your pocket change in a big jar so you can buy a hybrid the next time around.