15 Ways to Lower Your Car Insurance Quote

1. Shop around

The difference in price between various companies can be significant.  What one company may consider a high risk factor another company may not view as so important.  Insurance companies arrive at a price for your car insurance by adding or discounting money after each answer you give to the questions they ask you.  Each company has its own rules as to what they consider should increase or decrease your premium.  By shopping around you get a better list of prices to compare.
2. Buy a lower group car

Car Ground Effects : Should You Install Yourself ??

To make your car handle and look better you need the right car ground effects. Use aero-dynamic wings, spoilers, dams or skirts to get the down force plus the stylish look you have been looking for. These car ground effects features are not just pretty add-on's, they are designed to really work on your car, truck, jeep or suv ! Generally, they are wind-tunnel tested to generate huge rear down force to dramatically improve traction and keep your vehicle stable at high speeds without draining power from the engine.
In general you will save a bundle if you buy car ground effects from distributors carrying non OEM aftermarket brands (not the accessory offered by the dealer). The quality is comparable and the cost is much lower. If you install yourself you will save even more. But, should you be installing car ground effects yourself ? The answer depends on your skills and on the type of part and material selected.

The Three Basic Methods Of Car Pinstriping

Before we talk about the different auto pinstriping methods we need to cover a couple of basic points :
1) Pinstripes are usually done in two colors: one that compliments the body color, and another, thin line, which contrasts to make the stripe stand out. There are no rules: color choice is a matter of personal preference .... and imagination !!!
2) Make sure the surface to pinstripe is absolutely clean. Get rid of all residue with a good pre-surface preparation product
OK, now to the different auto pinstriping techniques :

Mechanical Pinstriping
A mechanical auto pinstriping is the best for striping long areas like trucks, vans, or station wagons. The main advantage is that it puts down stripes of consistent width, letting you concentrate more on keeping the contour of the stripe aligned along your work surface. The Buegler pinstriper and accessories are one of the preferred by body shops and pinstripers for their high quality construction and consistent operation. The easiest way to use a Buegler striper is to set up your stripe line using a magnetic auto pinstriping strip. It adheres firmly to steel surfaces, forms mild curves, and has a center groove designed with the Buegler's guide arm in mind. The strip can also act as a guide for your hand.
Striping with Stencil Tape

Driving To Savings: Car Tips To Save You Money

Although the most interesting method to save on car operating costs came from my chemistry teacher in high school (Buy your gasoline in the early morning or at night when it is cold outside. Gas becomes denser in cooler temperatures. Since gas pumps only measure the volume of fuel - not the density - you'll get better overall gas mileage for your money by purchasing fuel when it's cool outside rather than in the heat of the day), the moment that will determine the true amount you can save on your car costs comes before you even buy a car. The simple fact is that the type of car you decide to purchase will have the largest impact on the expenses you incur during the lifetime of it.

Settling Your Motor Vehicle Accident Claim Yourself

Handling a property damage and/or personal injury (motor vehicle) claim yourself is a simple and routine procedure for ordinary individuals to process on their own ! The vast majority of motor vehicle accident claims require no specialized expertise which allows one to successfully settle it.
There are five characteristics found which makes them easy for one to undertake without handing their case to a lawyer:
#1. The vast majority of them are “Ordinary” in character.
#2. By and large they don’t involve serious injuries.

#3. More often than not (in comparison to the 10 to 15 percent that do) their are relatively low financial stakes and also minor economic losses involved.
#4. They’re processed by the insurance company (who will ultimately be responsible for a payment to be made) in a highly routine, assembly-line format.
#5. Both parties are ordinary citizens (rather than institutions) and demand no specific expertise to undertake.
There are thousands of laypersons who are under the impression that when they gave their case to a lawyer that the large “Contingency Fee” which the attorney will eventually take is in exchange for a guarantee of SKILLED and PROFESSIONAL representation. Too often they suddenly learn differently (but by then it’s to late) because by the time that realization arrives they’ve already been taken to the cleaners!

How to Change Your Car's Motor Oil

First, let's answer the question; Why should you change your own oil? Because you can save time and money. You don't have to wait in line at the service garage or quick oil change shop. For ten bucks you can get the best oil and a brand new oil filter. And, it's so easy to do that you could train a monkey to do it.
Changing your cars motor oil is a very simple three-step process: 1. Drain the old oil. 2. Replace the oil filter. 3. Add the new oil. But before we go through the steps, lets answer a few basic questions.

When should I change my oil?
Look in your cars owners manual. Most auto manufacturers recommend changing the motor oil every 6,000 miles for normal service, or every 3,000 miles for severe service. I change my oil every 6,000 miles, and my engines run like new when I trade my vehicles in with well over 100,000 miles on them. One thing that I do is change a new cars oil after the first 300 mile break-in period. Then, after that, I change the oil every 6,000 miles.
What kind of oil should I use?
You are not going to save money by using an off-brand oil because your engine will wear out sooner. Use oil that meets the American Pertroleum Institute (API) classification SL. I use Valvoline, Quaker State, Pennzoil, or Havoline brand oil. These quality oils contain additives that make them work better and longer.

Car Insurance No Claims Bonus Explained

No Claims Bonus is a term used to describe the number of years you have had Car Insurance without making a claim. Put simply, if you have had Car Insurance for 4 years and you have not made a claim in that time, then you have 4 years No Claims Bonus. No Claim Bonus is probably the single biggest factor affecting the cost of your Car Insurance premium. Every year that goes by without you making a claim is another year of No Claims Bonus. Generally speaking, the more No Claims Bonus years you have, the cheaper your premium will be for the car you need to insure. This is because Car Insurance companies can see that your history regarding making any claims is a good one. When changing provider, Car Insurance companies will usually ask you to prove your No Claims Bonus in the form of a

New Car Registrations and Car Insurance

In September 2001 the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) introduced a new number plate registration system that was designed to last for 49 years.  The new change was welcomed not only by the car dealers but also by the car insurance industry as the DVLA also decided to issue new car registrations twice a year instead of once a year.
In the past, new registrations were issued on 1st August every year.  Inevitably this caused a major headache for insurance companies as so many people required insurance at this time.  This once a year rush for insurance was compounded by the summer timing when most people, including insurance company employees, go on holiday.  Today, the new registrations are issued in March and September.

The Car Insurance Rate Calculation Explained

Different companies will apply different factors to the way they finally arrive at a price for your Car Insurance. Generally speaking though the concept is the same. This involves collecting various bits of information from you and feeding it through a computer system which adds or takes away money depending on the answers you give. The value put on these answers is decided by the individual Car Insurance company.  For example, some Car Insurance companies may believe that having a speeding conviction increases your chance of having an accident in the future - therefore they may add money to your price if you have such a conviction. Similarly, some Car Insurance companies may decide that because you have a lot of No Claims Bonus Years then you are less likely to

Young Driver Car Insurance

It has become increasingly difficult to get young driver car insurance in the UK. The reason behind this is because the statistics for young drivers having a car accident are not very good. By definition, young drivers have very little experience of driving and thus have a greater chance of having a bump in their vehicle. Car insurance companies are obviously in business to make money and are understandably reluctant to insure such drivers. In most cases, companies will either offer a policy at a very high premium or refuse to insure the person altogether.
However, there are ways to lower your premium. First of all you should purchase a car that has a low insurance group number. Insurance group numbers range from 1 - 20. Generally speaking the higher the

Finding The Perfect Car For You

Your car may be the second largest purchase you make in your lifetime. You must take your time and not let it become an impulse decision. Before you go out browsing dealer lots consider the following:

How will I use my new car, truck or sport utility vehicle? A mini-van will fit fine in a large family but might be out of place in a singles life. Do you go off-road a lot but still like to carry more than 2 passengers, go for the SUV. Trucks have come along way with most comforts available in today's truck rivaling luxury cars. But do you really need that to carry construction equipment to the job site? If you do not go off-road, do not buy a 4 wheel drive truck. The extra weight will only decrease gas mileage and increase maintenance costs. Afraid of the snow? Look to the variety of AWD vehicles on the market which provide excellent traction in the snow and also more economical operation. Take a serious look at your life and find the vehicle that most compliments your lifestyle.

How Your Auto Insurance Rates Are Determined

Your auto insurance rates are determined by a number of factors:

driving record
usage, how you are using the vehicle, work, pleasure, business
how many drivers you have and their ages
how many vehicles you have
what kind of coverage limits you want
what area you live in
your payment history
what color car you drive
your insurance credit score
your claims history
your occupation and how many years you have lived at your current residence
how fast you can solve a Rubix cube
your daily, weekly, annual mileage

There is a lot of information about you that is used to determine your rates. You are grouped or pooled together with similar drives of the same background that way you are not paying for drivers that are much worse than you.
Similar risks will pay similar rates.
Your usage affects your rates because if you are driving to and from work or school 5 days a week, 15 miles one way you have a higher chance of getting in a accident than someone who only drives 1 mile 1 way 3 days a week or someone who works from home and only drives to get groceries. So business, work, and school usage is higher than pleasure usage.

How Do I Lower My Auto Insurance Rates?

Since there are many factors that go into determining your auto insurance rates, there are many chances to lower your rates.

If you change jobs and your drive to work changes or you stop working or you work from home, you should contact your insurance company.
If you have a teen driver and they go to school over 100 miles away without a car then you should be able to get a discount.
If you get married and are in your teens or twenties call your insurance company and see about combining your policies.
Take defensive driving if your state allows it for a discount.
See if increasing your comprehsive and collision deductibles will save you a lot of money. You need to compare what you're saving and how much more you will have to pay if you file a claim. For example, if you go from $500 to a $1000 deductible and it lowers your insurance $50 per 6 months then it saves you $100 a year.

The Truth about Colossus: Are You Just A Magnetic Image?

What is Colossus?

Colossus is software licensed to about twenty-five insurance companies to aid in predicting the settlement value of claims. The insurance industry maintains it is a useful tool because it considers a great many factors, and the settlement values are just a range for use in any way the insurer wishes. The claimants’ attorneys, on the other hand, maintain that the software is only so good as the data input, and we never know what the adjuster has input; that it does not consider interference with normal life activities, or other valid indications of pain and suffering normally proved by lay testimony instead of medical testimony (as required by Colossus); and that it is NOT merely a beginning point, but is instead the FINAL WORD ON VALUE that the adjuster has to adhere to, or else risk unfavorable management reviews.

How to Choose a Good Car Tint Shop

Most metropolitan areas have an abundance of tint shop choices. In the San Francisco, CA area alone, there are 30 different tint shops within a 25 mile radius. How does a consumer choose the tint shop that does quality work? What is the difference between a "Dr. Tint" and a "Quality Window Tinting"?
We at TintCenter suggest that you do a little research. First compile a list of 5 potential tint shops that are likely to do good work. Ask your friends an co-workers who have tinted their cars which tint shops they chose, look in the Yellow Pages and mark down the tint shops with large professional advertisements, or come to TintCenter.com and get price quotes from a local tint shops.

Once you have this list in-hand, its time to interview each dealer:
- How long have you been in business at this location? Do you have other shops in the area?
Good tint shops prosper despite other local competition by offering good service at reasonable prices. You

More On Lost Wages

Some time ago I wrote an article for the absolutely sensational ARTICLE CITY regarding the handling of your personal injury claim regarding how one should proceed to collect for their LOST WAGES.
Since then I’ve been asked so many questions about that subject matter I've decided to go into even greater depth regarding this highly complicated subject matter. So, here we go:

GENERALLY SPEAKING: If you're claiming five weeks of lost wages, and your Medical Record shows you were discharged in three, you're in deep “stuff“! You're chances of collecting for those additional two weeks is probably minus-zip.
No matter who says what you must make sure that the Final Medical Report, is handed to you - - only you - - nobody else !
Why ? So you'll have a chance to read it before you hand it to Adjuster Henry Hard-Nose employed by Rock Solid Insurance Corporation.
In the event that the report doesn't have everything in it that it should (which I’ve expressed in detail below)

Confidence is King of the Road

Confidence is more than just sexy. It can save you a ton of money on your next car or truck.
Lots of people hate buying cars. When you get right down to it, the root causes of this fear and loathing aren't hard to pin down.

Fear of the unknown.
Buying a car is a confrontational situation.
It's a huge commitment of time and money.

Well, okay, that's great, but how does that help you? Patience, grasshopper.
While there's no magical silver bullet to cure all of the above ills, a little confidence can go a long way. If you act uncertain and unsure, chances are you will get taken for a ride. This applies to every step of the process, not just when you're checking out cars on the showroom floor.
So what do you do? I mean, great, be confident. But what does that mean?

The Right Auto Insurance Can Save You Money!

Auto insurance is a protective feature that everyone needs who owns a car. Auto insurance allows you to have financial coverage in case you are involved in an auto accident; regardless of who is at fault. When shopping for auto insurance keep in mind that rates will vary dramatically for the same driver, depending on which company you ask. The key to savings lies in comparing many auto insurance quotes, to find the insurer that will give you the best rates.
If the auto insurance company you’re investigating is sound then it’s possible to purchase cheap auto insurance

The Motor Vehicle Accident “Whiplash-Type” Injury

The “Bottom Line” regarding “Whiplash Crash Facts” (accumulated during 2004 - - and including all the previous years) are as follows:

THERE ARE EIGHT SERIOUS AND ABSOLUTE FACTS IMPACTING AND REGARDING THAT WHICH IS TODAY IDENTIFIED AS A “WHIPLASH” INJURY. THEY ARE AS FOLLOWS: 1#. The “Threshold” for cervical spine soft tissue injury becomes a reality at 5 MPH.2#. Most injuries occur at speeds below 12 MPH. #3. Crashed cars can often withstand collision speeds of 10 MPH (some even more) without sustaining damage. (THUS: The concept of “No Property Damage - No Cash” has absolutely been invalidated)! #4. A delay in the onset of symptoms has been found to be the “Norm” rather than the “Exception”. #5. Mild traumatic brain injury can be the result of a Whiplash -Type injury. (These symptoms are often referred to as, “Post Concussion Syndrome”). #6. Up to 10% of victims of “Whiplash” become totally disabled ! #7. Of the 31 important whiplash studies since 1956 (19 of them executed since 1990) regarding patients from all vectors of motor vehicle accident collision impacts (be they rear, frontal, or side) it was found that “over 60% of them” needed long-term medical follow-up. #8. In 2003 several million Americans suffered a “Whiplash-Type” injury. This figure flows into the stratosphere each and ever day at an alarming rate of speed!

The Rules of the Road

With road rage being so common these days, we should all take a step back and review a few rules of the road. While not taught in most driver education classes or state driver's manuals, these rules will help you be a better driver.

The left lane is for passing. If you are going to pass, do it quickly and safely. Some states have laws that prohibit "driving" in the left lane, leaving it open for passing only.

If someone is trying to merge onto the highway and you have room, get into the left lane. This can help avoid an accident or at the least make someone's day a little brighter.
Be aware of large trucks and their driving styles. Tractor trailers, dump trucks, and other large vehicles can not stop as fast as you can. Keep that in mind the next time you squeeze in front of a truck at the stop light. Also, heavy trucks while on the highway will slow down while going up large hills but pick up speed on the downhill side. This can lead to a game of leap frog which will frustrate you and the truck driver. If possible get far enough ahead of the truck to avoid excessive passing!

Never Get Lost Again - Map Reading is a Thing of the Past

Do you spend lots of time planning routes and checking maps on the road. You don't have any more with a Magellan RoadMate.
I work in the film industry, scouting locations for possible shooting. These can be in built-up urban areas and remote locations all over California.
I often had problems finding my way, even with detailed instructions. I spent as much time parked and reading maps than I did driving.
Then I bought a RoadMate and within hours I felt I would never get lost again. The RoadMate works right out the box, no complicated set-up and no downloading information - perfect for a technophobe like me!

Now I don't waste time scribbling instructions. I switch the unit on when I get into the car and within seconds it has a fix on my position (even in the car port).
I have my contact give me the address or even a landmark close by, and type it into the RoadMate. Just like that, it finds my destination. And if I'm going to be going to that destination again I can save it in the memory for future use.
It offers 4 modes - the first time I tested it out I chose "shortest route" from home to office, and it displayed almost exactly the route I'd have chosen.

Insights Into Your Med-Pay Insurance Coverage

While Legal Romantics would like to characterize the trial of a lawsuit as a “Search For Truth” that’s not a reality!
Cases are decided on the evidence. When reviewing cases before them, judges invariably use the phrase, “The evidence shows”, rather than, “The truth of the matter is”. That first phrase is a reality that filters from the courtroom down to the objective evaluation of each case tried.

If Fred Fuddle is the town drunk, or if his conduct at the accident scene was provably abnormal than the value of your case should increase. If your injuries are visible and/or demonstrable, it’s likely your settlement will be larger. The conduct of both Fuddle and you before the accident may be significant. If you had been at a bar drinking heavily or raising holy hell out on the highway before the accident, you’ll get less regard from the jury than if you were driving to your house of worship with your family.
So, the circumstances of your behavior before, during, or after the accident increases or decreases the value of your settlement.
THE SIX MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENTS IN THE “EVALUATION PROCESS”: To be fully informed, you must know and understand the six primary evaluation elements that figure into the process of evaluation. They are as follows:

Where to Buy Used Cars at Bargain Prices!

One of the most important things you can do to purchase a used car at bargain prices is to do your homework.  You should check your local classified ads and see what the asking price is for the type of vehicle that you are in the market for.  Make sure to get the high and low Blue Book Price on the vehicle that you are interested in.  Here are some excellent sources for getting pricing:
NADA GUIDES - www.nadaguides.com
KELLEY BLUE BOOK - www.kbb.com

EDMUNDS - www.edmunds.com
Other resources to check with is CARFAX.  They can supply you with the vehicle history report.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has a research area to check recall history on cars.  We recommend that you have the vehicle you are interested in purchasing be inspected by your own mechanic prior to  purchase.
Newspaper Classified Ads are a excellent place to find cars at well below retail prices.  Many times, people take their cars to dealers for trade ins and are offered below wholesale prices.  Many of these people will be happy to several hundreds more that what was quoted by the dealer and you will end up with an EXCELLENT BUY!

The Eye Witness To Your Getting Creamed

Thirty four years ago, in a book I wrote and was published, entitled, How To Settle Your Own Insurance Claim, I stated: “An eye witness can make or break your case. If you’ve been able to keep your wits about you the first thing you should do, immediately after impact has occurred, is to find somebody who observed it. After having spotted such a person, don’t be bashful. Go right over to them and ask if they saw the accident ? If they did, jot down their name, address and telephone number. Should they drive away before you can zero in on them, make note of their motor vehicle’s registration number so you can later obtain their name through the department of motor vehicle office.”

How To Buy A Bmw On A Hyundai Budget

UNDERSTANDING THE UK CAR MARKET - Traditionally, purchasing a new car in the UK has always been an expensive pursuit. Manufacturers have been able to restrict the means by which we buy new cars in the UK - they have been able to dictate who can sell a particular brand of car to you and where they can be sold.  
While in recent times the prices of new cars in the UK have been falling, they remain well above those in other European countries - this means that it's possible to save a lot of money on cars if you're prepared to do some research and buy your car from a source outside the UK. This may seem like a hassle, but with several thousands of pounds to save it can prove to be more than worthwhile - and if you have a thing for travelling then buying from abroad can help satisfy your wanderlust while saving money on your new vehicle.

Cat And Mouse with Anti Laser Detectors

Anti-Laser Detectors are what drivers use to warn of oncoming police hunting for speeders.
Original laser detectors had short ranges less than .25 miles. The laser detector becomes less accurate as the distance increases since the light path widens from a pencil width beam to over 3 feet in diameter.

Light pulses from police laser detectors aren't detectible with standard radar detecting equipment, so driver detection of police lasers was developed fast. The original laser detector's limitations were almost like starting over in the 1950's with similar radar detector limitations.
Laser detector guns, just like original radar detectors, may not be used in moving vehicles. That may be an archaic limitation, but laser detectors have increased detection response by operating in the 90 GHz range, much higher than Super-Wide Ka-Band radar detectors.
Two industries spawned:

After The Sale

Enjoy your car... that's simple huh? Well it's not really that simple. Here is a list of things to think about after the sale.

Notify your insurance agent about the new car.
Read the entire owners manual. Familiarize yourself with the service requirements. Understand when you need to change oil, filters, and other major things like timing belt and driveline fluids.

Get used to operating the heating/AC controls and the radio so you do not have to fumble around and risk an accident while on the highway.
Pop the hood and find the oil filler cap, the oil dipstick. If you bought a car with an automotive transmission there will be a dipstick for the transmission fluid also.
Find the spare tire and jack. Make sure you know where to jack the car when changing a tire and how to remove the spare when you need it. There is nothing worse than getting a flat tire in a new car and having to struggle to change it the first time.

Closing The Deal

Congratulations !!!!  You got the deal you were looking for.  Now is the perfect time to mention to the dealer that you are looking to trade in that car you are currently driving.   This way they cannot jack up the new car costs and offer you more for your car to make it seem like a better deal.  If your trade-in is in good shape you should be looking for a price somewhere between retail and wholesale.  If your car is spotless make sure the dealer knows he will not have to recondition it.  Most research sites list trade-in value in the pricing reports, this is a good starting point.  If your trade-in is less than perfect don't expect more than wholesale price.  The dealers will take clunkers but they end up on the auction block the next week.  

Making The Dealer An Offer

Before you make an offer you need to find a dealer with the car you want. You have three options in doing this.

Drive around all day and night searching for a dealer who has the car you want.
Spend countless hours online finding local dealers who have websites. And THEN spend more time digging through their websites to find your new car.

Fill out a request form online and have a dealer contact you if he or she has the car you are looking for. This option alone can save you hours of your valuable time.

So you know what you want, you know what it costs, and you where to find it, so how do you go about getting it? First and foremost is getting into a negotiating frame of mind. Always remember you can walk out at anytime and leave your offer on the table. Dealers want you to buy right then and there. They play on your impulses and try to rush you into a deal. Don't play their game; it's not the end of the world if you don't buy right then and there.

Researching A Car Thats Right For You

Researching your new vehicle is a daunting task in today's world. Once you have narrowed your next vehicle down to 2 or 3 choices it is time to research. Take out a sheet of paper for each vehicle and write down pros and cons for each one. Also on each sheet of paper list the attributes which are most important to you. This list might include:
MPG - if you put a lot of miles on your car this factor could make a big dent in your wallet if you pick the wrong car.
Engine power - HP is a big factor for many people out there.
Price - nothing needs to be said about this one.

Interior space
Repair costs - consider the average costs to repair a fender-bender.
Insurance costs - this is often overlooked by buyers and can catch you by surprise.
Standard options.
Anything else, which is a factor to you. The idea is to custom tailor your list to meet your needs. If you don't care about engine power then leave it off your list.
Now how do you get the information which is on your list? Here is a list of excellent resources to use in your search.

Steps to Buying a Used Car With Confidence

Industry statistics show that almost three times as many people buy used cars as buy new.
To help consumers make informed decisions in the process, the experts at CarMax, America's leading used car retailer, have put together a basic list of the things to check when buying a used car.
1. Check the vehicle's safety features.
Consider a vehicle with air bags and anti-lock brakes. Not only will they make a car safer, but insurance companies sometimes give discounts on their rates for cars with these features.
2. Inspect the mileage.

Mileage is a good indicator of the vehicle's age, and the average consumer will drive from 12,000 miles to 15,000 miles each year. A late model used car may be more cost-effective and come with many features you may not be able to afford in a new car.
3. Check the mechanical condition of the vehicle.
If you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself, have a mechanic you trust check it for you. Fluids, lights, belts, power steering, the charging system, the air conditioner, the engine cooling system, the brakes and the suspension should all be carefully inspected for any defects and wear. And don't forget to test drive the car.

Gain 5 Horsepower This Weekend, For Practically Nothing

What if I told you that you can gain 5 horsepower this  weekend, for less than $100? Or, what if I told you that you could gain 5 horsepower this weekend, for less than $20?
I bet you'd be interested eh?
Well, the good news is, I'm going to tell you how to gain  5 horsepower this weekend for $0-15 spent. Sound too good to be true? Well, read on!

1) Increase the H2O ratio in your coolant - if it weren't for corrosion  and freezing concerns, automotive makers would use pure water. Water cools much better than coolant any day of the week, and a cooler engine is a better performer.
Instead of half and half, try 40/60. DO NOT use pure water, As this may cause premature corrosion and that can be no fun at all to clean up. You may also try water wetter to further enhance this effect.
 2) Index your spark plugs - this is an age old trick that is good for about 1 extra pony. The idea here is to "aim" the  open end of the spark plug terminal (the gap) towards the  intake side of the head. In order to accomplish this, simply mark on the plug a small line to indicate where this gap is, and install the plug as normal.

Shopping For A Car? Don’t Get Taken For A Ride!

Imagine this ... You're ready to buy a new car.  You've done your research on the web at a site like Edmunds.com so you know what the dealer has paid for the model you want.  Based on your information you've established your comfort zone for price haggling.  
You walk into the dealership, meet with a salesperson, and begin negotiations.  At the end of your test drive and haggling, you're confident that you've made the best deal possible.  No way you're getting ripped off because this time you are an "informed consumer" unlike when you bought your last vehicle.

One final step stands between you and your brand new "ride" - financing.  Your credit is outstanding so you get what you believe is the lowest possible interest rate from the dealership. You drive away in your shiny new vehicle triumphant!
Ready for a dose of reality?  According to a new study, there's a 1 in 4 chance that you've been "taken for a ride" by the dealer's finance department, especially if you are female or a minority, by as much as an extra $1,000.
The Consumer Federation of America, a Washington, D.C.,-based consumer interest group, said consumers often pay additional fees in that process - totaling as much as $1 billion nationwide - without realizing they qualified for cheaper financing.

Handling Your Motor Vehicle Accident With Your Own Insurance Company

This “How To” article is crucial, up-to-date information concerning what to do if your insurance company is giving you a hard time (regarding your own motor vehicle accident claim with them) and you’re positive it’s “Legit”. If there’s some problems with whatever position they’ve taken regarding your Property Damage Loss (or any other coverage-questions they may be ducking/stalling/ignoring and/or disputing) you don’t have to sit back and take it!
You DO have options to settle your dispute and you should proceed as follows:

#1. FIRST, LET YOUR AGENT KNOW YOU’RE UNHAPPY:  Ask them to go to bat for you. If they sit on their butt (afraid or “too busy” to get “involved” with your “problem”) find out the name and phone number or your insurance companies nearest Claims Department. Contact them and ask for help. (Never forget, you’re their insured, your premium’s pay their salary). If the person you’re talking to attempts to handle your problem with uncaring indifference, just like your agent has, than find and talk to that individual’s boss - - The Vice President of Claims and/or whomever.

Improve Gas Mileage Without Damaging Your Car

Many of the gas saving devices being advertised do not work and can actually damage your vehicle.
After evaluating and testing more than 100 alleged gas- saving devices, the Environmental Protection Agency has found only a few that improve mileage and none that do so significantly.

The gas-saving products on the market seem to fall into clearly defined categories.  These include, but are not limited to:  air-bleed devices, vapor-bleed devices, liquid injection devices, ignition devices, fuel line devices, mixture enhancers, internal engine modification devices, fuels and fuel additives, oils and oil additives, and driving habit modifiers.
The EPA evaluates or tests products to determine whether their use will result in any measurable improvement to fuel economy. However, the EPA cannot say what effect gas-saving products will have on a vehicle over a long period of time. It is possible that some products may harm the car or adversely affect its performance.
For example, if an "air bleed" device actually adds significant amounts of air to the air-and-fuel mixture, it may cause an engine to misfire, a condition which greatly increases the potential engine damage or mechanical failure.

Ten Myths About Synthetic Lubrication

It's a fact of life that behavior is influenced by what people believe, whether true or not.  Numerous cases from history bear this out.  For example, sailors were once fearful of sailing outside the sight of land lest they would fall off the edge of the world.  In the early

19th century, the train was considered dangerous because it was believed that if you moved faster than 25 miles per hour, you’d be traveling too fast to breathe.  At a later date, the New York Times warned that electric light would cause blindness.  Microwave ovens, automobiles and airplanes have had equally vociferous opponents.
Looking back, it's easy to laugh at some of the things people once held as true.  But these people were not stupid.  They were misinformed.  In many instances they had simply drawn conclusions before all the facts were in.  How easy it is to make the same mistake today.

Motor Vehicle Accident Insurance Claim Guide

This is a FREE Insurance Claim Guide created especially for the readers of ARTICLECITY.COM as a 2004 "Gift",
Your “Motor Vehicle” can be a truck, car, motorcycle - - you name it! If it’s powered by a motor and has one, two, three, four (or even more) wheels this “Guide” is for you.
The information below is a bare-bones “Guide” for those who have had such a motor vehicle accident. It details the basics of how one should with their property damage and/or personal injury claim.

AFTER IMPACT CHECKLIST
We heartily suggest you make a copy of this "Impact Checklist" to be kept handy within the confines of your motor vehicle. A “Guide” to refer to so you’ll be certain, should an accident take place, that you’ve covered everything.
Other than the fact that one must obtain from the other operator, both their drivers license and motor vehicle registration information, you should also proceed to do the following:
IMMEDIATELY MAKE SPECIAL NOTE OF: Names and addresses of eye witnesses. And later the investigating  police

Think Your Car is Safe from Thieves? Think Again

Every time you park your car, you're taking a risk.
Just ask David J. of Stanford, Conn., whose 1998 high-performance Acura Integra Type R was stolen right under his nose just one month after he installed a top-of-the-line security system for $1,500.
Mother's Day is a long-held tradition of revering the woman who gives the gift of life.
"Mothering Sunday" is another early Mother's Day tradition that has shaped the way we celebrate our mothers today. This English holiday dates back to the 1600s, and involved young servants who pampered their mothers with fine delicacies. While we continue to celebrate the mother figure in modern America, it is most often with traditional gifts of flowers and cards. But if Mother's Day is indeed about the most personal sentiment and respect for a mother, a gift of gratitude should warm their hearts forever.

car was tire tracks in the newly fallen snow.
"They found it three weeks later, stripped clean," he added.
David's experience is not unusual, says James Cooper, CEO of Ultimate Security Systems Corporation of Irvine, Calif. Despite manufacturers' claims to the contrary, most security systems are easy to overpower and hardly even slow down a professional thief, said Cooper, whose firm created and markets the PowerLock anti-theft system.
Every 25 seconds
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (www.nicb.org) reports that 1.1 million vehicles are stolen nationwide each year.

See And Be Seen

Tips for parents on how to keep kids safe on the street
Hopping on the bus, walking home with friends, or even riding a bike to school for the first time – there are so many milestones that children experience throughout their first few years of school, and many of these experiences involve learning how to use neighbourhood streets.

This fall, Alliance Tire Professionals and the Canada Safety Council are encouraging kids to "see and be seen" through an innovative program running in conjunction with National School Safety WeekTM in October. K.O.P. – Kids On Patrol – promotes the importance of road safety to young children through resources provided to schools across the country.
"October is a key month for school safety," says Emile Therien, president, Canada Safety Council. "Increased hours of darkness combine with the excitement around Halloween to make pedestrian safety a major issue for kids at this time of year. "

Prepare Young Drivers For Safe Winter Travel

Many young drivers will venture onto the roads this winter season, some for the first time. In fact, there are almost 3 million drivers in Canada between the ages of 16 and 24.2 That's why it's important for parents to prepare teenagers and young drivers for the difficult winter months, by making sure their vehicles are properly maintained and they've been given helpful instructions and well-stocked emergency kits.

First and foremost, have their vehicles checked thoroughly. Belts, hoses, water pumps, batteries and spark plugs need to be properly maintained. Winter tends to magnify any problems a vehicle might have. One simple routine that helps maintain fuel efficiency and engine performance is spark plug maintenance. "Too many people underestimate the power and importance of a spark plug, but it's exposed to more severe stress than any other part of the engine," says Peg Campbelton, Brand Manager for Autolite.

Did You Mount Your Cold Weather Tires Yet?

Every year there is this dilemma: should you mount winter tires or should you stay with your all season tires? We always question is it going to snow a lot or is it just going to be cold and will our all- season tires be good enough. Well here is some news for you, winter tires are not only designed to work better in snow, slush and ice but also when it simply gets cold.

Bruce Bridgman, National Marketing Manager Toyo Tire Canada Inc. says that among other things the tire's tread rubber needs to remain flexible to do the job it was designed to do. "Good winter tires are designed to handle every aspect of winter driving."
In a study done by the Quebec Ministry of Transport comparing all season vs winter tires, results showed that you can get up to 25 percent better breaking and 38 percent better collision avoidance by using a proper winter tire. The ministry summary concluded: "Winter tires perform better than the All Season tires, particularly in very cold temperatures. Furthermore, during braking, a crucial component of road safety, winter tires do provide superior results when compared to All Season tires.

Getting An Edge On Wet Roads

There's probably no worse feeling. You're driving on a wet stretch of road and all of a sudden it feels as though your vehicle has a mind of its own. Of course, your vehicle isn't possessed; it has "caught a wave." You're hydroplaning – your tires are no longer in direct contact with the road as they are riding on top of the water that has pooled on the road.

Hydroplaning can occur when a combination of speed, tire wear, tire inflation or the depth of water on the pavement causes the tires to lose traction. Essentially, a layer of water creates a barrier between the road and your tires. This barrier can cause you to lose traction and glide or hydroplane across the water's surface.
In wet weather, the tires that have been properly maintained and are in good running condition can cut through the water and maintain contact with the pavement at speeds less than 50 km/h. In cases where the tires are excessively worn (bald tires) or underinflated, or the water is very deep, you may still hydroplane at slower speeds.

Synthetics Best For Winter Stress

You're sound asleep. Absolutely dead to the world. Suddenly, a huge person bursts in, drags you out of bed, throws you out the window into a snow bank and screams at you to start doing push-ups. Right now, faster, faster, faster! So how do you feel. A bit stressed, maybe.

Well, that's how your car engine feels every time you turn the key. Because starting your engine from cold is just like the story above. Really stressful. And the colder it is outside, the more stressful the start-up and warm-up period are.
This is one reason why synthetic motor oils are so popular in cold climates. Because synthetic oils are much more "pumpable". This means they flow better at low temperatures and circulate quickly when you start-up, even in sub-zero conditions. Some other advantages of synthetics are faster "cranking" speed when starting, and better fuel mileage.
Canada's top selling synthetic is Castrol Syntec, which

From Mower To Thrower

The days are getting shorter. The nights cooler. And finally, your grass has stopped growing. Looks like it's time to store your lawn tractor or mower for the winter. And get that trusty snow thrower ready for use.

The key thing to know about outdoor power equipment is that their number one enemy is dirt. And their number two enemy is condensation. So start off by cleaning that lawn tractor or mower. Remove any surface grunge with a hose, then get underneath and scrape out any matted grass or cuttings with a paint scraper and screwdriver. Then clean the exterior with soapy water or a quality cleaner like Castrol Super clean. Now you are ready to replace or clean the air filter and grease any cables or fittings that need attention. Next, either fill it right up, or drain it completely of gas, depending on the manufacturer's instructions. Finally, and most

What's With Those Noisy Lights?

Not too long ago, you hopped in your car and turned the key. A couple of lights flashed for a second, the motor started and you were ready to go. Not true anymore. A modern car or truck has bells and whistles and flashing lights galore – most of which briefly light up or sound off, as you settle in and start the engine. So what do they all mean, and how much attention should you pay to them? Well let's find out. But keep in mind that not all vehicles will have the same type or number of lights, bells, whistles or computer generated voices. And before we start, there are a couple of key points to remember. All of these devices have the same basic purpose. To communicate with you. Sometimes this communication is about friendly advice; like your keys are still in the ignition. Most of the time, this communication is an important warning that you should acknowledge, respect and act upon. So let's start with leaving the vehicle.

Putting Your Palace To Bed

If you're a sailor, there are few things as precious as your boat. Power or sail, whatever the size, your boat is your escape, your refuge, your palace. Below are a few tips on protecting that refuge from old man winter.
Boat In the Water

Fill fuel tanks, add stabilizer.
Change engine oil and filters, always using brand name products from known marine specialists, like Castrol.
Winterize head, holding tank and fresh water system by draining or filling with non-toxic anti-freeze.
Winterize any other water using equipment.
Remove electronics, antennas and couplers. Spray and tape exposed cables.
Service cradle if necessary.

Winter Tire Myths Revealed

True or false – your vehicle is only as good as the tires it sits on? While you may have your own opinion on this, Michelin believes that tires are an essential part of your vehicle's safety, handling and performance.

Tire manufacturers like Michelin, as well as associations like Transport Canada and the Rubber Association of Canada, are working to increase awareness of the importance of tires as well as dispelling some common tire myths.
"The biggest tire myth is that they are a low-tech commodity," explains Tony Mougios, Michelin Brand Manager in Canada. "The reality is that advancements in tire technology have improved the quality and performance of today's tires. Few people seem to realize the additional safety obtained from installing four winter tires on their vehicles."
The following is a basic example of a common winter tire myth.
Myth: All-season tires are so good that winter tires are never needed.

Retreads: The Highest and Best Use for a Worn Tire

Although they may look round and black, retreaded tires are one of the greenest, environmentally friendly products a fleet can buy. Retreaded tires have one of the highest post-consumer contents of all recycled products, and are responsible for saving North Americans more than 400 million gallons of oil every year.

Most people don't know that tires contain a very large percentage of synthetic rubber, which is petroleum based. Every time a truck tire is retreaded there is a savings of approximately 15 gallons of oil. In addition, every tire that is retreaded is one less tire for our overcrowded landfills.
"I don't know of any other recycled product that saves as much money for the end user as a retreaded tire. When you add these savings into the natural resources that are saved and the positive impact this has on the environment, using retreads is a win, win solution for both the transportation industry and the environment," said Martin Bozarth, executive director of the International Tire & Rubber Association.

Avoid Getting Stranded This Winter

You can never take winter driving conditions for granted. Take for example the Minnesota man who, in January 2001, drove a few kilometres to the grocery store and ended up getting stranded in a winter storm for 36 hours!
While you should always try to avoid driving in winter storm conditions, it is sometimes unavoidable. Since the weather is often unpredictable, Michelin advises drivers to be prepared for the unexpected.

"Installing four winter tires on your vehicle will help keep you on the road and can prevent drivers from becoming stranded in severe weather conditions," advises Tony Mougios, Brand Manager for Michelin in Canada. "Michelin has incorporated new technologies and rubber compounds into our winter tire lines to give drivers extra control and performance in winter conditions."
In the event you find yourself stranded on the highway or a secondary road this winter, Michelin offers the following tips:

Young Drivers Need Winter Practice

One of the more nerve-wrecking experiences of parenthood occurs when your teenager first earns his or her license to drive. While many parts of Canada have ensured that new drivers be accompanied with a more experienced driver in the vehicle, it's important that parents take some time to share safety tips with their teenagers.

Learning to drive is challenging enough. When you throw snow, ice and slush into the driving mix, it can catch new drivers off guard. Therefore, passing along winter driving wisdom to your teens is especially crucial.
"Since you probably own the car your teenager is driving, you should ensure that it is prepared for winter-weather," says Tony Mougios, Michelin Brand Manager in Canada. "Part of that preparation involves installing four winter tires on the vehicle. Winter tires will enhance the safety and performance of your vehicle and allow whoever is driving to maintain greater control in winter conditions."

Online Towing Company Mission: Piece of Mind

News from Secure Towing
Millions of Americans are frequently unprepared for the inevitable car mishaps or breakdowns that are bound to eventually happen.
As a result, many motorists have taken steps to ensure that roadside assistance is available when dreaded breakdowns and repair problems occur.

Secure Towing.Com is an online service that operates through a network of contracted service providers who have arrangements with the company's dispatch to perform road and towing service for SecureTowing.com members. The result is an affordable service that provides peace of mind, comfort and a feeling of security to millions of motorists.
Secure Towing.Com has been very successful, offering a valuable service that appeals to its 16 million motorists across America who recognize the value and convenience of an emergency road and auto service. When on the road, Secure Towing.Com customers know they are covered and protected by an