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Driving and Cell phone use: Identifying the hazards involved
by Mark Lorenzana

If you think that driving under the influence of alcohol is still the most dangerous thing you can do behind the wheel, think again. Recent statistics show that driving while talking on a cell phone is just as deadly.

Millions of drivers worldwide talk on their handheld phones daily. So why is it a problem? Cell phones are a proven distraction and according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States, cell phone use accounts for more than 25 percent of all police-reported traffic accidents. And this doesn't even take into account the thousands of accidents that go unreported.

Of course, drivers who are avid cell phone users do take reports like these with a grain of salt. Wireless-phone proponents contend that talking on a cell phone while driving is just as hazardous (or non-hazardous) as, for instance, changing your radio station or flipping from one CD to the next. And with the advent of hands-free phones equipped with Bluetooth technology, it's easy to brush off the dangers of driving while talking (on the phone) as a gross exaggeration.

There is no denying the advantages of carrying a cell phone in the car: you can call the office when you're running late, phone loved ones while stewing in traffic, or call for roadside assistance in case of engine or car trouble.

But just the same, the hazards brought about by using cell phones while driving cannot be readily dismissed. After all, the use of cell phones while driving has already been banned in countries like Australia, Spain, Israel, Portugal, Italy, Brazil, Chile, Switzerland, Great Britain, Singapore, Taiwan, Sweden, Japan, and Austria.

Keeping this in mind, here are some cell phone safety tips that might just prove to be lifesavers:

1. Never read or write text messages while driving.
2. Program frequently called numbers into your phone's memory allowing you to keep dialing to a minimum.
3. If you must dial when the car is moving, hold the phone at eye level so you will have a clear view of the road.
4. Do not make emotional phone calls while driving.
5. Position your phone within easy reach.
6. Suspend calls in heavy traffic or in bad weather -- you need to focus even more under hazardous conditions.
7. Keep conversations short. Inform the person you're calling that you are in a car, and hang up as soon as possible.
8. If possible, place calls when you are not moving. Pull over where possible.
9. Ask a passenger to help. Have someone else make or take the call.

It's still a lot better to err on the side of safety.

About the Author
Mark Lorenzana is a fulltime copywriter for IBC Japan. He has written a regular column and articles for various newspapers and moonlights as a copyeditor and freelance writer. IBC Japan specializes in exporting used cars from Japan with regional distribution centers worldwide.

Winter Preparation Tips For Your Car
by Richard Crittendon

Winter brings with it an array of holidays, family picnics, and snow balls! On the other hand winter also brings long mornings filled with excruciating car troubles. Preparing beforehand on the maintenance of your car can help greatly with the endless troubles a car can give in winter.

A well maintained car has less chances of ditching you while driving then an ill maintained one. You should have a regular maintenance checklist of your car throughout the year. Some specific maintenance is advisable on a seasonal basis. And generally annual preparation tips include cleaning battery posts, inspection of spark plugs and breaks, and checking the engine oil.

Here are some winter maintenance tips you should keep in mind for preparing your car for winter:

1. Check your Antifreeze: antifreeze plays a vital role of your car's protection against cold weather. A car generally has a solvent made with 50% water and 50% antifreeze in it. The level of the mixture should be checked regularly and should ideally be at full level. If you do not have the knowledge or are not open to the idea of popping that hood of your car, many service centers and mechanics will check the level for you free of any charge. A radiator flush should have already been done in the last season for optimal performance of your car.
2. Inspect your tires: Good and healthy tires have many benefits. From assisting in good and efficient breaking to boosting the mileage, a good set of tires proves to be a knight in shining armor in winter. The depth of the tires should be checked for optimum depth. The recommended tire depth is 2/32' but if your tire depth is less then 4/32" then you should consider buying a new tire. Along with a tire in a good condition, the tire pressure should also be checked and maintained at the recommended pressure for the tire, the tire losses pressure in winter because of contraction of air molecules.
3. Replace your wipers: In winter wipers do the job of cleaning and wiping anything that falls on your windshield, from snowfall to splashed slush from molten snow, the wipers of a car take care of everything. For proper cleaning a wiper should be in a healthy condition. The rubber blades of the wiper should be checked for cracks and unevenness resulting from change in weather conditions, or long term use.
4. Check your windshield washer fluid: Windshields are used regularly in winter for cleaning the windshield. A lot of dirt and dust settled on the windscreen turns to stains when it mixes with dewdrops or water from snow. The use of washer fluid is used extensively for this reason only. The level of washer fluid should be checked regularly to avoid running out of the washer fluid. Care should be taken not to use anything other then washer fluid in the washer fluid reservoir because a washer fluid is specially designed for winter and wont freeze.


Apart from the above mentioned tips, many other precautions could be undertaken to suit the individual needs.

About the Author
Article written by Richard Crittendon of Automobile.com. For related information, see the recent article on the 2008Toyota4 Runner SR5 Sport review.

A Vehicle Manufacturing Company
by Brenda Williams

The Chrysler LLC Corporation was founded as a vehicle manufacturing company in 1925 by Walter P. Chrysler. Between the years of 1998-2007 they were part of the DaimlerChrysler group when the two merged. Daimler was formerly of Daimler-Benz AG and is now known simply as Daimler AG. In August of 2007, the Chrysler side of the merger was sold to an American firm, Cerberus Capital Management, L.P. The new owners have just over 80 percent of the DaimlerChrysler company while Daimler has just under the remaining 19 percent. The company is now known as the Chrysler Group. The company's headquarters, like many other vehicle manufacturing companies, is located in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

The first model manufactured by the new Chrysler Group in 1925 was simply known as the Chrysler. The original Chrysler model was light years ahead of its competition when it was first driven off of the assembly line. It had an oil filter, an air filter, a high compression engine, full pressure lubrication and rubber engine mounts. All of these features were rarely if ever found on vehicles being manufactured at the same time as the Chrysler.

Some of the early models released by Chrysler after their very first model were the Plymouth, the Fargo truck line, the DeSoto and the Imperial. Other popular models manufactured by Chrysler are the Barracuda, which was released only weeks before the first Ford Mustang, and the compact car called the Valiant.

1971 was a big year for Chrysler. The company decided to purchase a stake in Japan's company called Mitsubishi Motors. They bought into the company with a 15 percent stake. The only thing that Chrysler did with their 15 percent stake in the company was change the badge on the cars. They would take off the Mitsubishi logo and place a Chrysler logo on the vehicle and sell it in the United States.

Chrysler hit a low point in the mid to late 1970s because they did not redesign or develop better looking vehicles in terms of body style. They were way behind the models coming out of Japan's Mitsubishi Motors, who had been releasing new body styles since the beginning of the decade. Their business dropped so low that they asked the United States government for a loan in 1979. Their asking price was $1.5 billion. This money would help them avoid falling into bankruptcy. They were granted their loan and were even responsible for producing a variety of pick up trucks for the military called the Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicle M-880 series. This and the development of the K car kept Chrysler from going bottom up.

Chrysler's current logo is one of the most recognizable car logos across the globe. It is a winged logo, with rounded off wings expanded to the left and the right with a round symbol in the middle bearing the name Chrysler. The symbol in the middle of the wings is gold, blue and red while the wings are black with a touch of silver.

About the Author
Car Shipping for Any Car
Car Collecting and Auto Transport

Choosing the Right Family Car
by Brenda Williams

Making the right choice regarding a new family car is an important decision which should have the end result of you and your family feeling safe with peace of mind at all times. The perfect family car should maintain a balance between safety, practicality and entertainment to keep everyone happy. The first thing you will need to do before even searching for the car is to investigate into your finances and set aside a budget to be used for the new family car, you should never go over the budget you set aside, it's all about finding the perfect car within your price range.

The next thing you will need to consider is whether you will be going for a new or used car, this entirely depends on your budget and requirements, for safety and peace of mind a new car could be beneficial. Next you will need to consider what type of car you will require, again this can be down to preference if you have less than three children, and there are extremely spacious hatchbacks and saloon cars on the market these days. If you have more than three children you will need an MPV, estate or a 4x4 with 5 seats in the back. You need to make sure there is enough room for everyone and the cars with adjustable seating are very handy for busy families. Lots of storage is also a must for everyone's belongings and everything the children will need when travelling.

Safety should come very high if not right at the top of your list when considering purchasing a new family car, new cars usually come with an EuroNCAP star rating for safety based on many aspects such as the body work, airbags, seat belts and it's overall safety features. It's important to choose a car which has a high star rating for safety to ensure your family is as safe as possible. Another bonus of choosing a safe car is that it usually means you will receive a lower car insurance quote. Make sure that the car has enough airbags to cover the whole car to ensure the safety of everyone traveling in the car. Seat belts are another important safety aspect, make sure they are reliable and have the shoulder part to all belts including the middle seats which more often than not only have the abdominal belt which can cause serious injuries in an accident. It's also a good idea to make sure the car has child locks on the doors and windows to prevent any unfortunate incidents.

You will also need to keep the kids entertained, so features such as DVD players and a CD player are advantageous as they help keep your children entertained and stop them from hassling you whilst driving, if these features are not in the car they can easily be purchased separately but remember to bear in mind the price.

If you get the balance between safety, comfort and entertainment correct, congratulations because you will be in for easy journeys with the whole family as not only will the children be happy but so will you.

About the Author
Buying and Shipping A Car Online Personal Car Shipping

Top 10 Tips for Buying a Used Car
by Martin Davis

Today when it comes to getting a used car has become much easier with the invention of the internet. No longer do you need to look just at those available close to where you live but if you are willing to travel then you can look further afield by using many of the online auction sites and used car sites as well. Below we provide the top ten tips for buying a used car which you should be keeping in mind when trying to get your ideal one.

Tip 1 - Before you go ahead and buy a used car it is important that you do as much research into your chosen vehicle first. As well as looking through various internet used car listings then spend time reading through as many professional road test reviews that have been written. Also read as many reviews written and posted by people who currently own or have owned the model of car that you are interested in.

Tip 2 - Next you need to determine just how much the car is going to cost once you get it. Along with comparing the mileage ratings for the car that you are interested in you need to take into consideration what it is going to cost to upkeep the vehicle as well. There are plenty of websites online including the likes of www.fueleconomy.gov which provides you with the EPA mileage figures for any vehicle that has been made from 1986 to 2008. Plus sites like this will also tell you what kinds of greenhouse gas emissions the vehicle produces each year as well.

Tip 3 - The next thing you need to do is look at the cost of insuring the car you are interested in. Unfortunately the insurance premiums you pay on a vehicle are dependent upon a number of different factors. Along with the age of the driver and how much no claims bonus they hold the car's sticker price will affect how much you pay in insurance for it, plus what it is going to cost to get it repaired, how safe the vehicle is and finally is it a vehicle which is likely to be stolen. What's the point of purchasing a vehicle if only you cannot afford to get the insurance for it?

Tip 4 - If you need to arrange financing in order to purchase a used car then it is best if you arrange this through your bank or credit union as the rates they charge are considerably lower. Plus this puts you in a position with the dealership or owner of the vehicle to be able to get a better deal on the vehicle that you are after. Also before you go and get your financing it is worth checking your credit rating first to ensure that you won't be hit by any unexpected problems that could affect what kind of financing deal you get. The three major credit reporting agencies are now by law required to provide you with a free copy of your credit report.

Tip 5 - If at all possible before making that final decision you should actually take the car you are thinking of buying for a test drive. Don't just take it for a quick drive around the block but arrange to spend time on a wide variety of different roads and spend time looking at how well the car accelerates or not. Also as you drive it listening for any sounds or noises which are unusual or if it vibrates or there are strange odours emanating from it.

Tip 6 - Go onto sites such as Experion.com, Carmax.com or Autobytel.com and arrange for a check to be carried out to see if there is anything untoward. These sites are able to tell you whether the vehicle has been involved in any accidents or if there are any payments outstanding.

Tip 7 - It is important that before you purchase a vehicle you check through all the documentation that the seller provides. Inspect it carefully and look at the details on the vehicle and make sure that they check with the vehicle being sold. It is important that you look carefully at the vehicles identification number and check that what is on the official document shows in the vehicle as there will be plates on the cars chassis and on the engine and the numbers on these should match exactly to the vehicle being sold, if they don't then immediately walk away from the sale.

Tip 8 - Arrange to get the vehicle checked over by a mechanic if you know one before you decide to make that purchase and hand over your hard earned cash. If you don't know a mechanic there are some companies such as the AA in the UK who offer a service where you can for a fee arrange for one of their inspectors to give a vehicle a check over before you make the decision to purchase it.

Tip 9 - If you are purchasing a vehicle from a dealership then look to check what warranties are provided with the car and also what inspections have been carried out by them prior to them selling it. Although you may need to pay more it is worth taking up the offer of an extended warranty on the car being sold just in case.

Tip 10 - If you intend to purchase from an online auction site it is a good idea to carry out some checks prior to making a bid. Along with doing the usual checks as mentioned in tips 6 and 7 you need to look closely at the seller as well, especially if they seem to be selling a lot of vehicles through these sites.

Above we have offered you the top ten tips for buying a used car today. If you keep these in mind then you are sure to get the vehicle of your dreams rather than a lemon which is going to end up costing you considerably more than you first imagined.

About the Author
BRMB Motors have joined forces to bring the people of the West Midlands a brand new automotive website, Users can sell their vehicles for free and browse local vehicle listings.

Locking Fuel Cap - Optimize Your Prevention
by Michael Brown

Getting the most out of every dollar you spend is important and it can be done with the gas that is in your tank when you use locking fuel caps. Securing your gas tank may give you the assurance you need that you are optimizing every drop that is in your tank. If your gas tank is unlocked you run the risk of several things happening, and if those things happen you will not be getting the most out of the money you put into you gas tank. If you vehicle does not come equipped with a locking gas cap you may want to invest in one to protect your gas investment. One of the things that could happen if your gas tank is unprotected is vandalism. The word vandalism itself does not paint a very pretty picture vandalism is the actual deliberate destruction of another person's property. So if your gas tank is vandalized the consequences to not just your tank but to your car is damaging to say the least. Locking gas caps ward off vandals because they can't get in without a key and no vandal wants to wait around trying to get into a protected gas tank. Vandalism is common these days and if you want to get the most out of the money you put into your tank it is good to know there is a defense against vandalism.

Of course these days there are reports that show that theft of gasoline is on the rise. An unlocked gas tank is dollar signs to an individual looking to steal gasoline. Optimizing the money you spend in your gas tank should include locking gas caps to provide a defense against a burglary. Since the price of gasoline is much higher than it was just a few years ago gas burglaries are on the rise in almost every neighborhood from the city to rural areas. The fact that every dollar you spend in your tank could be stolen is enough to choose to make sure you have a locking gas cap on your gas tank.

Every dollar you spend should be optimized in every area of spending. When you do all you can no matter how little it may seem you are getting the most out of every dollar you spend and protecting your gas tank from damaging expense is part of getting the most for your money. There is no doubt that just the routine maintenance, gas and car washing are taking its toll on everyone's budget these days, so why not do what you can to make sure those expenses don't get worse.

The answer to optimizing the money you put into your gas tank could already be in your vehicle. If your vehicle doesn't have a locked gas cap you may want to look into one. The cost of purchasing a locked gas cap will be minimal compared to the damage that could be done to your vehicle if you do not utilize locking gas caps in your vehicle.

About the Author
Mike Brown http://www.locking-gas-cap.org http://www.locking-gas-cap.org/ford-locking-gas-cap

Quick question, what side of your car is your gas tank?

As I have been driving for years, one would think I would have noticed the little secret on my dash that was staring me right in the face the whole time. I didn't and I bet you probably haven't either.

If you look at your gas gauge, you will see a small icon of a gas pump.
The handle of the gas pump will extend out on either the left or right side of the pump.

If your tank is on the left, the handle will be on the left.

If your tank is on the right, the handle will be on the right.
It is that simple!

The Pros and Cons of Converting Your Car to an Alternative Fuel
by Steve Longoria

Many people are researching the possibility of converting their car to alternative fuels, partly due to the increase in fuel prices and also as a way of helping the environment. Some alternative fuels can also pro-long the life of your vehicle which is also a huge advantage but what costs should you consider when making these changes to your car? There are a few advantages and a few disadvantages of converting your car to alternative fuels and your own personal situation may impact on how much these pros and cons affect you. So if you are considering converting your car to another fuel than read through these pros and cons and see which ones affect your situation and whether it will be worth it for you to convert your car.

There are a few advantages and a few disadvantages of converting your car to alternative fuels and your own personal situation may impact on how much these pros and cons affect you. So if you are considering converting your car to another fuel than read through these pros and cons and see which ones affect your situation and whether it will be worth it for you to convert your car.

Vehicles that are set up to operate on alternative fuels are much more cost effective than vehicles that use petroleum fuels. If you are in the market to buy a new car and are considering alternative fuels then it would be less expensive to buy a car that is already set up to run on alternative fuels than it would be to buy a car and then convert it to use alternative fuels.

There are some environmental group programs such as 'Alternative Fuels Conversion Program' that will help you financially if you do decide to replace your car with a more energy efficient car. This group provides grants for up to half the cost to managers and fleet owners for them to purchase LPG or Natural Gas vehicles or to convert their existing cars to LPG or Natural Gas.

The main advantage of converting your car to use alternative fuels is of course the effect that it will have on the environment. The pollution given by petroleum fuels is not at all good for our environment and with concerns over Global Warming then everyone can do their bit to help by using alternative fuels and putting less stress on our environment.

If you run a company then using alternative fuels for your business will give your company an impressive image to the public. People will regard your company highly when they can see that your company is doing its part to help the environment.

One more advantage to alternative fuels is that they can extend the operation life of your vehicle. The process of corrosion and build-up will slow down if your car is running on cleaner fuel. Vehicles using alternative fuels will operate more efficiently and will have fewer maintenance problems and will ultimately save you money on maintenance costs.

It can be quite expensive to convert your existing vehicle to operate on alternative fuels. Often the complete fuel system will need to be replaced to ensure that there are no traces of the previous fuel type.

Sometimes it can be difficult to find the correct parts and have those parts maintained so this will be something that will need to be researched before going ahead with the decision to convert.

The biggest disadvantage of converting cars to alternative fuels is obviously the cost involved but remember that the costs saved in fuel and in maintenance may make up for the initial cost involved in the conversion.

Most importantly by converting your car to an alternative fuel you are investing in the future of our environment. Also, you don't have to convert your car to run completely on alternative fuels.

There are many popular guides out there that will show you how to use water as a supplemental fuel source. Many are saying they're able to save up to 50%-70% in gas mileage.

Car Donation: Making The World A Better Place To Live
by Alex Baumm

Donating a car in favor of cause oriented groups is a great way to help many people who are experiencing difficulties in life. If you want to make a big difference in your life and in the lives of other people, then, the right decision is to make a car donation right now. Car donation helps young people who belong to underprivileged communities attend schools and achieve their simple dreams in life. Through the efforts of people who want to change the direction of lives of young children, many are given new hope in what seems to be hopeless situations.

Definitely car donation as a means of raising needed funds is one perfect idea and a major factor to attain this goal.

Funds raised through car donation also help families affected by natural disasters like hurricanes and floods. Usually, communities which were affected by these disasters find it difficult to start over again. In this respect, cause-oriented groups and their collective efforts become the light that guides families in their quest to find the right way to make a new beginning.

Car donation and funds generated from it also help people with serious sickness. Funds are used to provide much needed medicine and food so that they can get better. Funds through car donation also provide temporary shelter to people caught in cross fire.

Your decision to donate your car to charity not only helps other people as it can also help you at a certain extent. You can get IRS tax deduction and you can also find a way to sell your used car. If you are going to purchase a new car, donating your used car will allow you to skip the bulk of paper works that is associated with selling used cars.

Car donation is not only limited to second hand cars that work. You can also donate your car that doesn't work anymore. An auto donation company would be willing to tow it for you without paying any cent.

If you are interested, you can check various offers given by lots of companies engaging in car donation programs. They can easily be contacted online or by phone. These companies have their own websites so you will not have any problem if you want to ask them things about car donation.

Donating car for charity is something you should really consider when you are in the process of deciding where you should sell your used car. By donating your car to charity, you are actually giving new hope and life to people who have somehow lost the belief that there is still hope for everyone so long as we breathe.

Yes, you might loss some bucks in doing so but, remember there are things that money can't purchase and one of these is the feeling that you have just saved another person's life. Car donation program can really spell the difference that the world somehow needs in these trying times.

The world indeed can rely on people who have the desire to help in their simple and small way. So, come on... donate your used car today and make this world a better place to live in.

About the Author
Car Donation program can really spell the difference that the world somehow needs in these trying times. Find more info on Car Purchase at our Car Forum. Alex Baumm, administrator of a car forum.

Car Seats For Your Baby And Toddler
by James Brown

Car accidents have been known to be one of the main causes of deaths among teenagers and most especially children. This is the reason why parents should take extra care in making sure that their children are safe when they are inside a vehicle, whether it may be moving or parked. With this need for car safety for children, car seats were invented and introduced.

Over the years, car seats have grown to be more popular as more and more parents have taken caution and have recognized their importance. There is however different types of car seats available in the market and each one correspond to a specific child age group or where some opine it is the weight of the child that gives the more decisive basis for getting a type of car seat. It is important that parents know this in order to get the right car seat that is appropriate for their babies and their toddler.

For babies, the parents should get a baby car seat that is rearward facing. This kind of car seat can hold room for babies that are aged from birth up to 12 or 15 months, whose weight can be as heavy as 10 kilograms or 22 pounds until 13 kilograms or 29 pounds. Babies are more out of harm's way if they are protected as they are facing the rear of the car and cosseted by the seat. With a rear facing car seat safely securing them in, they are cushioned from the bumps and jolts that the stirring car may go through. The seat shields and supports the head, the neck and the spine of the baby. It is preferred to place this rear facing car seats in the rear as compared to placing them in the front of the car. It is advised to never place the seat in front when the car has a passenger airbag as this could suffocate the child; hurting them instead of keeping them safe. It is recommended that you use rearward facing baby car seats for as long as your baby can fit on it. You will know your baby needs to move on to a bigger seat if her head is as high or even higher than the crown of the car seat or if her weight is or has already exceeded the maximum.

As your child outgrows his rear facing seat, you need now to get her a forward facing seat. This type of seat can hold a toddler of 9 to 18 kilograms or around 20 to 40 pounds, whose age could be between 9 months to 4 years old. The important factor with forward facing kid car seats is the harness that keeps the child safe in place. This should prevent the child from sliding off or bouncing in front out of the chair in case there is a collision or if dad accidentally puts on the brakes too hard. Just the same, it is favored that this seat be placed in the rear and to keep your toddler in such a seat until his age or his weight tells you to move on to the next level.

About the Author
James Brown writes about Randall Scott Cycle Company promo code, Dunham's Sports key code and FogDog Sports coupon code.

Easy and Affordable Ways to Protect Your Car's Interior
by Sarah

Now that you have plunked down some cash for your new car, it is but important to learn how protect your precious investment. Here are some easy and affordable ways on how you can protect your car's interior and preserve its top condition.

Window shades, or solar shades, are one of the most inexpensive accessories you can buy to protect your car's interior. Window shades provide shade for your dashboard and steering wheel thus preventing them from cracking due to extreme exposure to the sun. Also, window shades help keep your car's interior a bit cooler when you leave it parked in an open lot.

These collapsing and folding window shades come in different sizes, forms and colors. You will definitely not have a hard time finding one that matches your interior. These also do not require special keeping as you can only leave them at the back of your car and take them anytime you want to use them.

Floor mats are another inexpensive accessories you can get to protect your car's interior. Floor mats help keep the carpeting of your car clean and free from all the mud, stains, oil stains, dirt tracked in on the shoes of your passengers.

Just like window shades, floor mats come in different designs and colors. They are also made of various materials like carpet, rubber or vinyl. Finding the right floor mats that will fit your car's theme will not be hard. If you wish to be a little more creative, you can also find in the market floor mats with logos or cartoon characters printed on them.

Lastly, it is important to invest on affordable seat covers to protect your new car's seats. Using seat covers keeps your new car seats' upholstery from stains, rips or scratches. Nice seat covers also add to the beauty of your car. If your car is a bit older, seat covers will also help cover the car seats' defects.

If you taxi around kids or pets a set of seat covers will give you peace of mind. If anyone has an accident or spills food or drinks on your seats you can either wash them or quickly and easily get a new pair.

Car seat covers come in different colors, designs and prints. You can find seat covers from zebra and leopard patterns to solids and Hawaiian prints. So no matter what the model or color of your car, you will surely not have a hard time finding the right seat cover for your car.

These are just some of the basic and affordable ways to consider in protecting your car's interior. Still, there are many available accessories out there that you can buy for your car. Depending on your budget, you will surely have a collection of accessories that will not only add to the beauty of your car, but also will add longevity of its interior. The bottom line is, you must be wise in protecting your investment.

About the Author
Discover great deals on car insurance with ideal car insurance policy coverage. Save more time and money today with fast service, free rate plus cheap and affordable car insurance quotes online! Check out our great auto insurance deals at our Online Auto Insurance site.

Car Care Tips - How To Change Oil
by Jessica A

So you are really ready to do, you are really going to change your oil all on you own. Well,I say good for you! You can do it, it is so much easier than mechanics want you to think.

They like you to bring you car in so they can get you on all the other services they have. And these are services you can do yourself as well. Read on and discover how to change oil yourself.

You will need to go to your auto parts store to get 5 quarts of name brand oil. You also need a very high quality oil filter, don't use a cheap filter. To remove the oil filter you will need either an oil filter wrench or a metal strap wrench. Also get something to catch the oil with, preferably something that will seal.

Time to get to work. Check to see that you will be able to fit to work under your car. You might need to jack up the front some, best to have some supports.

Have a buddy there in case of an accident. First you need to remove your oil cap. Now to get under for the fun stuff.

Place the oil tray under the oil pan, directly under the plug. Remove the plug, this will be at the lowest point of the oil pan. The oil will drain out into your tray, it will take a few minutes.

When the oil is completely drained, go ahead and put the plug back in. Do not screw it in too tight. Now you want to move your drain pan under the oil filter. Oil will leak as you pull the filter out.

Using your filter wrench, you will want to turn the oil filter counter clockwise. Once it is loose enough, remove it using your hands.As I said earlier, there will be some oil that will come out.

Your new filter will have a rubber gasket. Coat the entire gasket with some of the new oil. This will keep it from sealing so tight that you won't be able to remove it next time.

Time to screw the new oil filter on using only your hands. Now you are ready to screw in the new oil filter. Turn it until it is tight. Now you can use your filter wrench to turn it another ¼ to ½ turn to seal it. You are done under the car now. Time to fill up with your new oil. You are ready to put your new oil in. You should use the entire 5 quarts.

Replace your oil cap and then start your car, let it run for about 5 minutes. After that, check your dip stick. You did it, you really learned how to change oil by yourself. With nice clean oil, you are ready to go.

About the Author
Save yourself money on your car maintenance by doing it yourself. Discover how at Car Care Tips.

Hybrid Cars: Check out the Tax Breaks
by Floyd Dorrance

When you're learning about something new, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of relevant information available. This informative article should help you focus on the central points.

Hybrid cars are one of the latest innovations in the car industry today. Because of the rising cost of fuel, car manufacturers have integrated the hybrid technology in their cars. The concept of the hybrid engine technology is actually very simple to explain. Although hybrid cars still use fuel, it can efficiently save it. This is because the hybrid technology combines the electric motor technology with the gasoline engine.

With the hybrid technology, it allows consumers to save as much as 30 miles a gallon on fuel. The main advantage of hybrid cars is when the car stops or when it is running on idle mode, it automatically shuts off the gasoline engine. However, the car will continue running but it will run on the electric motor. Therefore, it saves a lot on fuel. Just imagine being stuck on traffic, with the hybrid technology, you will never waste precious and expensive fuel when the car is running idle. This is also the reason why hybrid cars are so quiet when it is stationary. When you step on the accelerator, the gasoline engine automatically turns on again.

Another reason why hybrid cars are now preferred by most people is that it emits lower levels of toxic emissions. This means that hybrid cars are environmentally friendly. Just imagine, if all people would start using hybrid cars, it wOULD lessen the emission of carbon monoxide. For this reason, it will effectively stop global warming.

Is everything making sense so far? If not, I'm sure that with just a little more reading, all the facts will fall into place.

Because hybrid cars can both help in saving precious fuel and reduce the emission of toxic fumes, the government is now taking all the necessary steps to promote the hybrid technology. The consumer who owns a hybrid car can enjoy more benefits than you may imagine. Not only will they save a lot of money on fuel, and help produce a cleaner environment, but they can also enjoy tax rebates.

Back in 2005, the President of the United States signed an agreement that says that hybrid car buyers will be able to enjoy large amounts of tax relief. However, the amount of money you will save on the tax incentives will also vary on the hybrid car you purchase.

The first one you have to consider when getting a tax break is that it will depend on the fuel efficiency of the hybrid car you purchased when you compare it to a conventional car in the same weight class manufactured back in the year 2002. The more it saves fuel, the bigger the tax break will be.

The tax break imposed on a hybrid car will also vary on the amount of gasoline that the hybrid car can save in its total years of operation when it is compared to a conventional car in the same weight class. The more gasoline it saves, the bigger your tax relief will be.

It is a fact that hybrid cars can be expensive. However, just think about the long term benefits that the hybrid car can give you. If you calculate overall total expenses of a hybrid car and compare it to the total expenses of a conventional car during its lifetime, you will see that you can save more money on fuel. You will also save money on taxes. You will see that purchasing a hybrid car is definitely a good investment that all people should consider.

Not only will you be able contribute in producing a cleaner environment and save a lot of money on precious, expensive and limited supply of fuel, but you will also save a lot of money on tax rebates for hybrid car buyers.

Don't limit yourself by refusing to learn the details about "hybrid car". The more you know, the easier it will be to focus on what's important.

About the Author
The author, Floyd Dorrance is a professional researcher of a variety of articles as well as a car buff since his teen years.

Auto Accessories Go Modern
by Oze Parrot

During earlier times, when a radio was fitted to an automobile it was considered to be an accessory and, in later years when it was fashionable to attach a fox tail to the auto's radio antenna, this was also considered as an accessory.

My, how times have changed. There are so many items that were once considered to be extras that are now fitted to an auto as standard equipment and considered to be essential. This does not include the fox tail which, of course has gone the same way as Davy Crockett's coonskin cap.

Today, the term, auto accessory encompasses a vast range of vehicle add-ons that vary from decals and pin striping to luxury items such as a cocktail bar, television or GPS tracking device. There are many outlets scattered throughout every city in the USA which, are stocked with a huge range of auto accessories that are suitable for almost every make and model of auto, truck and motorcycle.

There are odd times when the motorist spots an auto which, is the same make and model as his own, maybe the same color scheme even, but it looks outstanding. Why, you may well ask? Well, it is because of the selection of accessories and add-ons that have been chosen for this particular type of vehicle.

Accessories can make any vehicle look exceptional, provided that they are chosen wisely and are professionally fitted. A highly polished set of mag wheels that are designed for the vehicle, can set it off from the rest. Tinted windows, iridescent paint and decorative hood ornaments can also enhance a vehicle's visual appeal.

Of course, the regular application of a high quality polish will protect the paint work, keep the vehicle looking at it's best and retain the auto's original appearance. Attention should also be given to cleaning exterior trim items and regularly apply tire black to the tires and mud flaps.

As the public depends more and more on their autos for transport, they find that they are spending much more time inside their vehicles either commuting or enjoying recreational activities. This trend has increased the need for selective auto accessories, as motorists choose to add a variety of creature comforts to their autos, in order to make their commuting and driving tasks more enjoyable.

Auto barns and auto warehouses throughout the country stock a comprehensive range of accessories that include, not only tools, paints and spare parts but high performance surround sound systems that will allow drivers to listen to their favorite music, the latest news, their company reports or training CDs.

Commuting is not such a chore when your auto is air conditioned and equipped with cruise control, has plush seating that is fully adjustable and has an excellent sound system. Drink warmers or coolers are available, as is just about any conceivable device that will ad to the modern motorist's comfort.

Next time that you are passing by an auto accessory warehouse, pop inside and take a look around. You will be absolutely amazed at the quantity of merchandise that is available to make the average motorist's journey more enjoyable.

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How To Read Your Tires And Avoid Car Troubles On The Road
by Levi Quinn

Practitioners of traditional Eastern medicine have long used the tongue as a mechanism for diagnosing malfunctions in every part of the body. For your vehicle, a tire is as good as a tongue. Of course, wear and tear on your tires won't tell you much about the battery or other electronic components, but all sorts of suspension problems can be diagnosed simply by looking at the way in which the tires are wearing down.

Your tires may be worn in four basic ways. First, if there is simply too much wearing of your treads, yet the treads are wearing evenly on the entire width of the tire, as they should be, simply replace your tires. If you can see your tread bars - if there is wire or metal showing on your tire - you are long past needing to change the tires of your vehicle.

If you would like to keep a closer eye on your treads, you can perform a regular penny check by sticking Abe Lincoln's head into your tread where it is the lowest. If any part of the president's head is down in the tread, then your tires are all right.

If the treads are wearing unevenly, that can signal deeper problems with your vehicle. For instance, if the treads on only one side of the tire are worn, this can signal a need for wheel realignment. The very need for this realignment, however, can signal different things like worn ball joints or arm control bushings. Worn treads on one side may also indicate sagging springs, so this type of wearing means that someone competent should check your suspension system.

Wearing of inner and outer treads without wearing of the inner treads can be a sign of chronic under-inflation. However, if you have been using care to keep your tires properly filled with air using a tire pressure gauge, this type of wear may be a sign of a bent or worn steering component. Your wheels may also need alignment. If you consistently put too much air into your tires, you will get wear down the center of the tire. This wear pattern may also indicate that you've put enormous tires on narrow rims, in which case you can replace either the tires or the rims.

Other strange wearing patterns include feathering, which means that each tread becomes round on one side and sharp on the other. Experts suggest that you look for this pattern with your hand, as you will be able to feel the sharp edges before your tire's condition is visually apparent. Second-rib wear and cupping are other wearing patterns that indicate deeper problems, such as the wrong size of steel-belted radials and worn or bent suspension parts.

In order to keep abreast of these problems before they get too far and cause further damage to your vehicle, it is a good idea to get to know your tires by walking around your car and looking at them each day. You should also run your hand along their surfaces and do the penny tread test once or twice a week.

About the Author
Find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. Visit us today for money-saving tips, instant auto insurance quotes and helpful car insurance advice.

The Top Ten Cars For Students
by Mike Bartley

While almost everyone wants a car, certain limitations restrict car buyers from buying their dream car. The price, of course, of a BMW for example puts it beyond the reach of most car buyers especially students. That is because of the fact that most students look for cars which are not only affordable but also gives them the highest value for their money.

In response to this, a list of the top ten cars for students is offered by cars.about.com, one of the leading online sources of auto information. The list is composed of cars which are known for their reliability, driver friendliness and, of course, price range which is within the reach of a student's budget.

Number one on the list is the Ford Focus ZX3 - the small car from the Dearborn-based contingent. The current Focus is now in its seventh generation and while it cannot match the technologically advanced features offered by other subcompact cars, the Focus is a great car to own. It has good fuel economy for its relatively small size. Another positive thing about the subcompact car is that it is easy to drive.

Currently, the price of the base model of the Focus is slated at $13,995. The car is equipped with a 2.0-liter four cylinder engine that is capable of churning out adequate power for the small car. Its suspension setting is solid and gives its occupants a smooth ride on most road conditions.

Number two on the list is the Scion-Braun xB Rampvan. This vehicle is the right choice for disabled students. The vehicle, as the name suggests, is a Rampvan -meaning it is wheelchair-accessible. One advantage that the xB has over its competition is the relatively lower price. Not only is the xB Rampvan more affordable but it also consumes less fuel than its contemporaries. With the price of gasoline skyrocketing these past few years, the xB is a safe choice for disabled students.

Another practical attribute that the xB Rampvan has is that its ramp drops down from the back of the vehicle instead of being on the side. This means that the vehicle can be parked on a crowded parking without posing to be a problem for the wheelchair-bound occupant in boarding or leaving the vehicle.

The third vehicle on the list is the Honda Civic. The advantages of the compact sedan for students include its fuel efficiency. Aside from that, the Civic epitomizes Honda's reputation as a builder of reliable cars. Performance and driveability is also satisfactory. For the adventurous young drivers, the Civic is one of the best cars to learn tuning. Aftermarket parts can easily be added to the Civic such as Gibson exhaust pipes.

The Civic is also loaded with safety features which include the standard anti-lock braking system which reduces the risk of brake lockup in cases of heavy braking. During an unfortunate event of a crash, the Civic protects its occupants through the front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and, of course, the standard front airbags. In terms of construction, the Civic is designed to endure the impact if it collides with a bigger vehicle. In terms of affordability, the LX trim level of the Civic is reasonable for students.

Number four car on the list is the Hyundai Accent - the subcompact car from the Korean carmaker. Experts call it a "great first car" for young people. Like the rest of the cars on the list, the Accent is easy to drive with controls that are easily understood. Ride comfort and stability is satisfactory.

In terms of safety, it has front-seat mounted side airbags and a roof-mounted side curtain airbags. These safety features can protect the car's occupant from severe injuries in cases of crashes. The least expensive trim level of the Accent though is not equipped with an anti-lock brake system. But for the rest of the Accent lineup, the ABS is a standard feature. Price is sensible for young car buyers. High value for money is ensured by the long warranty that Hyundai is known for.

The Kia Optima is the fifth car on the list. It is bigger than the Accent but is pretty much on the same price range. Compared to the family cars produced by domestic car manufactures like Chevrolet, Ford and Chrysler, the Optima is a good choice in terms of its price. It offers good space in the cockpit and at the same time is equipped with safety features that one can find in a car priced relatively higher than the Optima. Owing to the fact that it is already acquired by Hyundai, the Kia Optima comes with a long term warranty that is hard to beat.

Sixth on the list is the award-winning Honda Fit. The Fit of today resembles the Civic of ten years ago. Since the Civic has been upscaled by the Japanese car manufacturer, the Fit stepped in to take its place on Honda's lineup for the United States auto market. Much like the iconic Civic hatchback, the Fit offers a good handling capability and the fuel efficiency to match.

One thing that the Fit has over the Civic hatchback is that it offers more space at the back. Priced lower than its European and American contemporaries, the Fit is also a good choice for students looking to own their first car.

Number seven on the list is the Pontiac G5. This coupe is one of the best looking cars on the list owing to the fact hat it comes from the same carmaker which came up with the legendary GTO. While the G5 may share its bloodline with America's first muscle car, it is priced sensibly. Fuel efficiency is exemplary and user-friendliness is outstanding. In terms of safety features, side airbags are listed as options and it is highly recommend that one should avail of that option.

The Suzuki SX4 is the eighth car on the list. While it is a Japanese car, it is priced similar to its Korean counterparts. Priced below $16,000, the SX4 is regarded as the cheapest all-wheel drive vehicle available in the market. For its relatively low price, the SX4 comes with a host of standard features which includes four-wheel anti-lock brakes and side airbags. For entertainment, the SX4 comes equipped with a CD/MP3 player.

Number nine on the list is the Mazda 3. The Mazda 3 comes in either a sedan or a mini-wagon body style. Being Japan-made, car buyers can be assured of its reliability. The engine lineup offers a 2.0-liter gasoline engine which has a fuel efficiency one can expect from a Japanese car. For those who want more power for the Mazda 3, a 2.3-liter engine is offered.

Rounding up the list is the immortal Toyota Corolla. This compact car has been available in the market even before students today were born. Considered as the best selling car of all time, the Corolla's charm and reliability are still present today. Fuel efficiency is good which is what one would expect from a Toyota.

About the Author
Mike Bartley, 49, is a professional automotive journalist domiciled in Irvine, CA. He travels from one state to another to cover the hottest auto shows, racing events and automotive revelations. His penned compositions cover press releases, reviews, and suggestions. Where the auto action is, that's exactly where you can find Mike.

Used Cars Need Insurance Too
by Jake Newberry

Automobile insurance is a tough aspect of life that many people would rather do without. They would rather do without auto insurance right up until the moment that their insurance covers the costs, or a large percentage of the cost, when they get into an accident. Insurance is designed to prevent against losses incurred as a result of traffic accidents, so it does its part to save the insurance holder and the accident victim a whole lot of strife. In the end, you will be glad you have automobile insurance.

Car insurance is one of those facts of life we would rather not discuss, but is just plain necessary. There are many kinds of coverages offered by car insurance companies. We are always looking for smart ways to save on our auto insurance each year. I have found that buying used cars is the smart way to buy a vehicle. One of the best reasons for buying a used car is to save a good amount of money on car insurance coverage.

If you drive a used car it is very possible that you are paying less money for car insurance. An insurance company bases much of your insurance rate on the value of the car, and the fact of the matter is, a used car is less valuable and therefore carries a lower premium with insurance companies. Some drivers of used cars choose not to carry comprehensive car insurance to save some money. They can do this because the overall value of their car is less than a brand new car, and fixing minor damage while the car was stationary is less devastating than a crash. However, collision insurance is a must for all drivers on the road.

Looking for cheaper rates many drivers are turning toward online insurance carriers. In fact, finding a rate online can be painless, reliable, and save money all at once. The accessibility of online insurance is convenient; being able to file a claim at any time of day helps with peace of mind after an accident. Online insurance companies take into account factors like: the type of car you drive, where you live, your driving record, and estimated driving habits; and they create a guaranteed rate right their on the spot and show you different options for coverage.

Along with looking online for automobile insurance, there are other things you can do to get low car insurance rates to come your way. The top tip that most experts offer is to shop around. Look online, offline and everywhere in between for the best low car insurance rates. Another idea is to make sure that all of the vehicles you will be insuring are located on the same policy. This is a good idea because it enables you to save up to or around ten percent per car through "multi-vehicle" discounts. An idea along these lines that some companies also offer is the "multi-line" insurance, meaning that if you insure your home and your car with the same company, you will end up with a discount on both pieces.

There are many opportunities to save money on your automobile insurance if you look in the right places. You can choose a higher deductible, for example, and save a good amount of money on your car insurance through that route. You can also drop collision altogether if you have an older car, enabling you to cut some fiscal corners and bring down your overall rate. The best option for saving money on your automobile insurance is, however, to not end up using it by driving safely.
About the Author
Jake Newberry sells for NuStar Motors, a used cars Sacramento dealer, which specializes in lifted 4x4 trucks and fast cars such as used Mustangs, Cameros, and Honda V-techs.

Car Warranty Basics
by Chuck Cox

A standard car warranty, which is often referred to as a basic bumper-to-bumper warranty, typically is good first 12 months of the life of a vehicle or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. During this warranty period, the repair of any defect or flaw because of an error in manufacturing or a failed part is generally fully paid and covered by the manufacturer. An extended car warranty would have to be purchased to extend beyond the basic warranty.

If the car manufacturer offers a power train warranty, then this power train warranty will become effective generally after the standard car warranty expires. These power train warranties generally protect the car owner against engine, transmission, and differential breakdowns as long as neglect or abuse of the vehicle by the owner has not caused the malfunction. Neglect such as not following manufacturer maintenance servicing schedules and requirements are most notably called into question. However, these power train warranty repairs are not usually totally free, you typically have to pay $50 or $100 for each of these repairs, which basically serves as a deductible. The time period that a power train warranty is valid wholly depends on the manufacturer. For lesser-priced model cars, the term is usually 24 months or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. As mentioned earlier, this power train warranty is beyond the standard warranty period. Power train warranties of many higher priced luxury model cars extend to 60 months or 88,000 miles, whichever comes first, and this is also beyond the standard warranty.

Throughout the auto industry, the basic time period of basic bumper-to-bumper warranties being used today have been three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Auto makers have gone to higher measures in recent years due to higher competition along with the fact that autos are of higher quality making the longer warranties more cost effective. As with anything else, some car manufacturers may be more generous than others. Your can always verify the warranty by referring to the warranty booklet of your car. To summarize, the difference between a standard car warranty and a typical power train warranty is that the standard one covers the entire car for a specified period, while the power train warranty covers the engine, transmission, and differential for an extended period.

A standard warranty will repair at no charge any defect or breakdown that is the fault of the manufacturer. Repairs conducted under a power train warranty are paid for on a shared basis with the car owner usually paying $50 or $100 for each repair, while the manufacturer pays the remainder. An extended car warranty would have to be purchased for additional coverage these two warranties.

About the Author
Chuck Cox operates several businesses and websites of interest to consumers.

Car Safety Ratings: What Do They Mean?
by: Andrew Dillan

Every car commercial tells you that their car has a five-star safety rating. Does this score really mean anything? What tests are being performed and who does the measuring?

The Organizations
In the United States, there are two organizations that score cars on safety ratings, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA is run by the Department of Transportation and is sometimes called the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) or the government five star rating.

Frontal Collision Ratings
The NHTSA gets its data by running a car directly into a wall at 35 mph. The IIHS does a different test, where the impact is offset, and not directly in the middle. The IIHS test does a better job of mimicking real-life accidents. While most cars do well in directly head-on collisions, most real-life collisions are offset.

The NHTSA scores with five stars. Five stars means that there is ten percent or less chance of injury. Injury is defined as something life-threatening or for which you will need immediate hospitalization. Four stars is between eleven and twenty percent chance of injury. Three stars is between twenty-one and thirty-five percent chance.

The IIHS score is not in a five star format. They rate a vehicle as Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor.

The NHTSA and the IIHS scores should be looked at in conjunction with one another. Remember, both these scores only rate what would happen if you collide with another vehicle the same size as yours. However, many crashes involve only one-vehicle, so these tests are useful.

Side-Impact Ratings
Again, the NHTSA and IIHS uses different side-impact tests. The NTSA crashes a giant beam into the side of a car and measures the shock on two male-sized dummies. They then make a star rating based on the chance of chest injury to the dummies. Five stars means less than 5% chance of injury, four stars is 6%-10%, and 3 stars is 11%-20%. They don’t gage the damage to the head in this star rating, but if they think that it is excessively dangerous, they will add a safety note to their report.

The IIHS uses dummies that represent adolescents or small-statured women. This helps assess the safety of people other than men in the car. They also use a larger beam. They score their rating based on injury to the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and femur. This is arguably a more comprehensive test than the NHTSA test.

Rollover Ratings
The NHTSA is the only company that does Rollover ratings. Rollovers are often the most fatal type of accident. The NHTSA measures the chance of a car rolling with no external catalyst, and the chance of it happening for a reason (hitting a shallow ditch, hitting the curb, going onto the shoulder). 95% of rollovers are “tripped,” and have some external element.

Recent NHTSA testing has proven what we know about SUVs being much more likely to rollover than sedans or other cars.

Low-Impact Bumper Test
The IIHS performs a low-impact bumper test to see how much repairs would cost you if you gently hit something by accident. They rate the cars accordingly. Although this is not necessarily a safety rating, it will tell you what you can expect for possible repairs for your car and is something to keep in mind while purchasing a car.

When you shop
Considering the safety ratings of cars is important. But it is also important to know how these ratings are measured so that you can make the most informed decision about your purchase. Maybe you want your car to be cool, or to be functional, but most of all you want it to be safe.

About The Author
Andrew Dillan is the editor of http://www.theguideto-carloans.com, The Guide to Car Loans. If you are looking for a new car, find the best way to finance your purchase by checking out this informative site!

Diesel and Gasoline Engines
by: John Stafford

There has been a lot of debate concerning the environmental safety of the diesel engine versus the gasoline engine. In the past the diesel engine was a large polluter and was deemed to be very noisy and unreliable. This was one of the major downfalls of this engine design.

Today however it is seen that this is no longer the case. While the diesel engine continues to be more of a polluter than the gasoline engine in some aspects it is not as bad as before and in fact beats the gasoline engine on some fronts. The diesel engine has been greatly improved in terms of its efficiency and has reduced the oil consumption.

Due to the lowered per mile fuel consumption of the diesel engine it can be seen that the diesel engine releases less carbon dioxide than the gasoline engine. This is a vital point as the gas carbon dioxide is a great contributor to global warming. It is however seen that in terms of particulate pollution diesel engines are larger culprits when compared to the gasoline engine. They are also producers of smog forming pollutants.

These particulates are largely classes as soot particles and this falls into three major classes. These are particulate matter that is greater than 10 microns, particulate matter that is smaller than 10 microns or 10 microns and particulate matter that is 2.5 microns or smaller. It is a fact that these sizes can be related to the particular effects of these particles on humans.

The particulate matter that is greater than 10 microns is not as dangerous as it is ejected from the body by sneezing, coughing and nose blowing. Smaller particles settle in the windpipe and cause irritation and the particulate matter that is 2.5 microns is seen to settle in the lungs and cause serious irritation, mutation of tissues and many serious medical problems such as asthma and cancer. This therefore makes the issue of diesel pollution a serious and deadly one.

This means there will be more serious and tougher emission rules for the diesel engine to adhere too and the need for high tech diesel engines that use fuel that is low in sulfur. The benefits of this fuel may in fact however not be worth it as the production of the fuel will generate more pollutants.

There is however still a future for diesel as it will indeed have a role to play in the overall reduction of the production of greenhouse gases as well as oil consumption. The diesel engine will continue to be advanced but whether it will catch up to the technologies employed in the gasoline engines is a question that remains. The gasoline engine technologies in use have been ahead of the diesel engine in terms of air pollution and continue to remain ahead.

If the diesel engine can offer the same efficiency of the gasoline engine in terms of pollutants then it will be the engine of choice without any dispute. Until that time it continues to trail the gasoline engine even though it has better fuel efficiency.

About The Author
John Stafford is the webmaster and a contributor for http://www.diesel-generator-central.com and http://www.diesel-performance-pros.com.
http://www.diesel-generator-central.com offers experienced and professional advice to assist you in your next diesel decison.

What Exactly Is A Hybrid Car?
by Gray Rollins

We are all concerned about the environment and doing our part to take care of it. Of all the purchases we make, the purchase that will have the greatest impact on the environment will be the car we decide to buy. Hybrid cars are an affordable and innovative way to help protect our environment and benefit from the increased fuel mileage.

Only a few years ago talk of hybrid cars had consumers stepping back unsure; but today hybrids offer a practical choice for consumers, and more and more consumers are jumping on board.

A hybrid car has a small engine that is fuel efficient, which is combined with an electric motor that aids the engine when additional power is needed during acceleration. The electric motor gets its power from battery banks which continuously charge while you are driving.

Energy is conserved when you stop because the engine is shut off automatically. Then, when you apply gas, it automatically restarts.

The hybrid car also uses a more advanced aerodynamic lightweight body, and combines it with low roll resistant tires that are stiffer and narrower to help reduce drag.

In 2004, out of the 17 million vehicles sold there were around 80,000 hybrid vehicles sold. By 2005 that number had increased by 1.2% to 200,000, and it's estimated that by 2007 more than 400,000 hybrids will be sold.

There are several hybrids currently available in North America. They include the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Honda Insight, Toyota Prius, and the Mercury Mariner. There are also Hybrid SUVs available - the Ford Escape, the Lexas 400H and the Toyota Highlander.

The Toyota Prius holds 52% of the hybrid market with just under 108,000 vehicles. The Honda Civic is the next most popular with 25,000 vehicles.

Now that consumer support for the hybrids has arrived, auto manufacturers are increasing the pace at which they introduce hybrid models. In 2006, the Honda CR V SUV, Saturn Vue, Hyundai Accent, and Kia Rio are being introduced as hybrid models. In 2007 we will see the Toyota Camry, Honda Fit, Mazda Tribute, Chevrolet Malibu, and Nissan Altima; and 2008 will see the Ford Fusion and Mercury Millan available as hybrids.

And as an added bonus in the United States, consumers that purchase a hybrid will get a tax break. Those purchasing fuel-cell vehicles will get up to $8000 in tax breaks, and those purchasing alternative fuel vehicles that weigh less than 8,500 pounds get a $2500 tax break. It's a nice pleasant surprise!

If we had a crystal ball that could see into the future, there's a good chance that what we'd see 20 years down the road would be freeways, highways, and streets that were full of hybrid vehicles. In fact, it's likely that our gas guzzling vehicles of today are about to go the way of the dinosaur as more hybrid cars make it to market.

About the Author
Gray Rollins is a featured writer for NewHybridAutos.com. To learn more about hybrid cars and other hybrid vehicles, visit us.