Selecting Tires For Your Hybrid Car

First time hybrid car users may still be quite a bit unfamiliar with the new and innovative hybrid car tire designs. When you are planning on replacing your hybrid car tires, remember to pick the low-rolling resistance tire models.

Experts know that the low-rolling resistance tires are as groundbreaking as the hybrid car design itself. Major tire manufacturers are now riding the wave by coming up with new designs to meet the increasing demand for hybrid automobiles. This means that consumers have to look for new low-rolling resistance tire designs that are available at tire store centers.

But before we go any further, have you any idea what low-rolling resistance tires are all about? The name low-rolling resistance tires is derived from the measurement taken as the tire rolls on the surface of the road. The longer the tire rolls at a given rate, the lower the resistance it encounters hence the name low-rolling resistance tire.

A great improvement in the automotive industry, these innovative tires greatly lessen the power required to move a car along a given distance compared to those outfitted with conventional designs. With a significant reduction in the energy utilized to move the vehicle, fuel efficiency is optimized for hybrid cars.

Car tires make use of energy in the form of heat. This is evident in three various contact points on the car tires. The first contact point is of course between the tire and the road surface. Next you have the heated contact point between the tire and the sidewall. Lastly, heat is also produced at the contact point between the car tire and the rim.

The advantage of using low-rolling resistance tires is in the superior handling, traction, and improved durability that they offer to hybrid car owners. Low-rolling resistance tires also go through the same approval standards to ensure safety of the said product. When used with special suspension brakes, these types of tires can greatly reduce resistance even more.

The secret of these tires are in the manufacturing process and the elements used to produce low-rolling tires. Top priority is given to the tread design with the least amount of energy usage. Although different manufacturers use different designs, all are moving in the same direction in terms of production design.

After perfecting the low-resistance tire design, lightweight and sturdy materials are carefully selected with the goal of reducing the sidewall flexing encountered by the tire. To be able to do this, tires are deflated and made to run without air pressure. Surprisingly, most of these tires can run up to 50 miles without air pressure, would you believe that! In the event that tire pressure has leaked out, this will enable hybrid car drivers to continue traveling to a safe spot where they can have their car tire replaced. This eliminates the problem of having to tediously lift the car with a jack, remove the depressurized tire and replace it with a spare, that is, if you do carry one in your trunk!

www.tellmeabouthybridcars.com brings you thought provoking information about hybrid cars. This site has articles which have really helpful information. Be sure to check out all the pages and decide for yourself. © 2007 copyright by DSquare Marketing and Della Franklin.


By Della Franklin

Hybrid vs Diesel

In these days of soaring gas prices, it seems that everyone is looking to increase their gas mileage. In the past, those looking to drive the most fuel-efficient vehicle had just one option: diesel trucks and cars. Diesel vehicles use significantly less fuel than cars that run on regular gas.

There is an option to diesel vehicles. Recently, hybrid vehicles have been appearing everywhere. No longer are they just slightly odd-looking compact cars. Hybrid technology can be found in everything from compact cars to SUVs. Are you better off with the old, diesel standby or do hybrid cars really offer more?

Diesel vehicles

For years, the gas-conscious consumer chose the diesel vehicle. These earlier diesels were generally noisier, dirtier and handled the road more poorly than their gas counterparts did. In fact, five states currently do not allow the sale of diesel vehicles due to strict emissions standards.

However, this image of the diesel vehicle is very outdated. Modern diesel vehicles are much cleaner than their earlier counterparts are. Low-sulphur diesel fuel and new technology that helps trap emissions particles are making diesel engines cleaner than ever before. In addition, modern diesel vehicles handle nearly as well as their gas-powered cousins and are less noisy as well.

Fuel efficiency is still paramount when it comes to driving a diesel vehicle. With their average nine miles per gallon increase over gas-powered vehicles, diesels are a viable option for the fuel-conscious consumer.

Hybrid vehicles

Hybrid vehicles are the newcomer to the mileage game. These vehicles run on a combination of gas and electric power, and they promise vastly increased gas mileage and lower emissions.

While these vehicles deliver on the promise, there are a few shortcomings as well. The first and most glaring disappointment is that many drivers find that the advertised mileage and the actual mileage the car achieves are vastly different.

For instance, the Toyota Prius advertises gas mileage of 55 miles per gallon, according to U.S. government reports. However, when Consumer Reports magazine tested the car under actual driving conditions, the mileage achieved was only 44 miles per gallon. While this is still excellent gas mileage, it is far less than advertised.

In addition, the sheer price of hybrid vehicles can be daunting. While a diesel vehicle generally costs an average of $1000 more than its gas-powered version, a hybrid vehicle costs several thousand dollars more than a gas-powered car. The Honda Civic Hybrid base price is $4800 more than the standard Civic with the same options and amenities.

Given that the gas mileage on the hybrid is about 30% greater than on the standard vehicle, it would take an average driver at today's gas costs more than twelve years to recoup the cost difference. However, one must consider that some of this additional cost can also be recouped with the one-time federal tax credit. In addition, some states and even employers offer rebates to those who drive hybrid vehicles.

Find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. Visit us today for money-saving tips and receive free quotes for cheap auto insurance online from respected insurance companies.


By Levi Quinn

How to Select the Best Types of Hybrid Vehicle

Environmentalists are fans of the hybrid vehicle. Customers consider them in high regard. Manufacturers feel the demands of the consumer market and can't wait to manufacture more variations of these vehicles. Mixture cars are becoming all the more popular. The constant variations in the prices of gasoline have meant a lot of benefits for the manufacturers of hybrid vehicles. People who purchase mixture vehicles are flooding the market in order to determine whether these vehicles are worth the prices that they are being sold at.

Estimated projections have shown that in the next decade or so there will be a substantial number of alternative fuel vehicles in the global automobile market. This is quite a large difference from the minimal number of hybrid vehicles in existence a while back. Despite this fact, the main thing that people who are out to buy alternative cars should do is try to understand what these are about.

What Is A Hybrid?

A hybrid is a vehicle that is between an electric vehicle and a gas powered engine. Hybrids have an internal combustion engine as well an electric motor that has a backup battery. Most typical mixture vehicles tend to share both gas and electric energy at the same time. What this means is that traditional mixture vehicles are actually a whole lot more fuel efficient than they are environmentally friendly. Another thing that consumers should be aware of when buying a hybrid is that they should know that two main hybrid types exist. These hybrid types are the mild hybrid and the full hybrid. Buyers of such cars should also decide how important it is to save on energy before choosing one energy saving vehicle or the other.

Mild Hybrid:

Mild hybrid vehicles predominantly use gas as a means of power. The electric motor is only used in cases where additional power is needed to support the gasoline engine. Mild hybrid vehicles therefore rely on a whole lot more gas than their full hybrid vehicle counterparts. Because of this reason they only offer a small reduction in the amount of dangerous emissions that they release into the atmosphere. When you compare these hybrid vehicles with traditional vehicles on the other hand, they still offer a greater financial and environmental benefit.

Full Hybrid:

When most people think about hybrid vehicles they are actually thinking about the full hybrid. This is because the full mixture vehicle is more in line with what people feel mixture vehicles are supposed to be all about. These vehicles allow the electric motor to work independently of the gasoline or the traditional engine. A full hybrid can solely be powered by electricity thereby eliminating the release of dangerous substances and saving the costs of gas as well. When you make an idle stop such as you would before a traffic light, the full hybrid switches power entirely to the electric motor. The full hybrid is great for town driving and allows the electric motor does most of the work when you're travelling at slow speeds. Most people often think that hybrids must be plugged into a recharging source at one time or the other to recharge their batteries, the truth however is that these vehicles recharge themselves by using the internal battery pack while you're driving.

Why Buy A Hybrid?

Regardless of current claims by certain researchers that alternative automobiles don't save as much gas as the manufacturers of these vehicles claim. These same researchers agree however that these vehicles tend to use half as much fuel as their traditional gasoline counterparts. Newer models may be heavier and this requires more gas to run but hybrids remain much more environmentally friendly and cheaper than other vehicles.

Darren Williger is an over-caffeinated, low carbohydrate eating, winemaking enthusiast who writes for NetworkSecurity.WS, EcoSection.com, and MixtureCars.com
By Darren Williger

Roof Rack - Rack it Up for Added Comfort

The world of car accessories just doesn't seem to take a breather from its ever constant act of piling up newer and better products day in and day out. Right from accessories that are highly essential like car mats and security alarms, items that enhance the presentation like car graphics and alloy wheels to accessories that provide additional benefits like GPS navigation system, the market has them all. However, amidst this subsequent elevation of accessories, one item that has maintained its solidarity is roof rack.

From quite an initial stage of motor vehicles, roof racks have shown a constant presence through their ability to hold a good amount of luggage. This explains the mounting of this car accessory over commercial vehicles at a greater rate. To offer a more comfortable ride to the passengers, these vehicles had the racks to withhold their luggage. This trend soon took off among the private vehicle owners as well they viewed a positive way to eliminate any hassle by tagging along their luggage and other stuff on the racks.

Other than your bags and any form of luggage, roof rack can also be used to carry, otherwise difficult-to-carry items like surf boards and bicycles. So, you and your friends can now easily take along your surf boards to the beach to tame the waves by just piling up all the stuff on a single vehicle.

In a similar fashion, your roof racks can also be substituted for the more advanced roof boxes, which are improvised to offer a safer ride for your belongings as well. You can now confine your luggage within these boxes, which come in various sizes and designs to suit your preferences. To find out more about these highly useful accessories, you can log on to the Internet and browse through a wide range available in the market today.

Alexus Devon is an automobile writer specializing in automobile and car accessories products and has written authoritative articles on the Roof Rack industry. He has done his Master in Business Administration and is currently assisting directcaraccessories as a car accessories specialist.


By Alexus Devon

How To Save On Gas Usage As Gas Prices Keep Going Higher

As I write this article oil prices are near $100 a barrel and the price for a gallon of 87 octane gas where I live in Northwest Florida just went to $3.05 per gallon! Since I drive a Nissan Titan Crew Cab and don't get the greatest gas mileage I am a little agitated. Here are some things that you can do to help reduce the consumption of gasoline with your vehicle.

One of the biggest culprits contributing to poor fuel economy is lack of regular maintenance. It is crucial to keep your car tuned up regularly so that it will make the most efficient use of the fuel. Another maintenance item that contributes to bad fuel economy is dirty air filters which can reduce your mileage by ten percent or more.

You need to avoid jackrabbit starts and stops as well, keeping a steady rate of speed when driving can help you avoid wasting as much as a third of the fuel you are using. At the current gas prices you could save nine dollars for every ten gallons of gas. If you have cruise control on your vehicle, use it to keep your driving steady and save gas.

If you have alternate routes you can take that are less trafficked than your normal one use them to avoid the stops and starts. You should also keep from using the clutch excessively.

One thing many people don't think about is how temperature affects your gas usage, buying your fuel in the morning hours or late at night will help you get more for your money when fueling up.

If you are on the highway you should keep your windows rolled up to avoid wind drag. This is another big waster of gasoline. The friction or drag that occurs when your windows are down completely goes against any aerodynamic styling your car may have.

The operation of the air conditioning is another thing that is a major fuel waster, if it is at all possible you should only use the AC when absolutely necessary. If you must use it do so sparingly and at the lowest settings in order to get the best fuel economy.

If your wait time is going to be longer than a minute or so turn the engine off. If you let your engine idle more than that you are using more fuel than restarting the car would. This is another big fuel burner that many people don't think about.

f you have Jimmy Hoffa in your drunk, dump him. Seriously, if you have a lot of unnecessary stuff in your car get rid of it. Excessive weight can also waste gas at a much higher rate.

Keep your tires at the proper and recommended levels for your vehicle to get the best fuel economy. If your tires are under inflated or over inflated it will make a difference in fuel usage.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his beautiful wife and family in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about sports cars as well as car care products at http://www.5starshine.com


By Gregg Hall

How to Buy Cheap Used Cars at Government Auctions and Police Auctions

If you are looking to buy cheap used cars or trucks at Government auctions or police auctions, then you're reading the right article. Specifically in this article I will give you some of the best tips for beginners when it comes to using Government auctions to get vehicles at a real bargain. After reading this article, you will have all the basics you need to know in order to approach government auctions intelligently.

The first thing you need know is that all cars sold a government auctions are "as is". What might seem like a deal could end up costing you money if it has a mechanical failure or major flaw. In order to avoid this, you must learn how to recognize if a car is good or not through careful inspection. It's not like going to a car lot, where you can take the car for a test drive. You cannot test drive cars at Government auctions. The closest you can get is to listen to the engine. That's why you need to learn how to appraise a car by inspecting it, or getting an expert to go along with you to inspect it for you.

Also, it's foolish to bid on cars that you think you know the value of. It's not wise to guess when it comes to spending your money. If you don't know the value range of the car, do not bid on it. I can't tell you how money people are shocked to find what they thought was a deal actually wasn't. You can use the Kelly Blue Book as a basis, however it pays to have an expert appraise the car before bidding on it.

Next, inspect the contract before you enter into it. Some contracts have a specific number of days you have to wait before you can get the title. Keep this in mind if you're thinking about turning around and selling the car right away. Sometimes it is the waiting period that negates the great deal you're getting on price.

Finally, remember it's an auction. At any auction, you must know how to bid strategically. If you've never attended an auction, it might be wise to go to attend a few auctions to watch and learn the etiquette of bidding, and also to get a feel for it. There's nothing worse than letting your emotions get in the way and making an illogical bid on a vehicle. Remember also that there are likely to be dealers at the auction bidding as well. They will have a good idea of the value of the cars being sold. One of the best things you can do is to look at some of the online auctions. While there are many membership sites offering access to Government and Police auctions, you should use caution as some of them will simply take your membership fee and not provide complete or timely auction information.

In conclusion, if you carefully inspect the vehicle and know its market value and make wise bidding maneuvers, you can walk away with a great deal on your next vehicle purchase.

Michael Ullman maintains Government Auction Site Reviews, a website providing honest, unbiased reviews of government auction membership websites.

A recommended resource is Government Auction Site Reviews which provides unbiased reviews of these membership sites

By Michael Ullman

Discount Tires Direct

Let's face it people, the world is changing. Whether it's the increasing price of fuel, the improved performance of cars, or the increasing number of online stores offering discount tires direct to the US public.

Recent reports suggest competition amongst tire sellers has intensified, with the new wave of online tire stores gaining ground over the independent dealers (the traditional market leaders).

This intense competition is mainly due to the decreasing market, as demand for tires falls. The Rubber Manufacturers Association states that:

"...The passenger replacement market will decrease by approximately 3.2 percent in 2006 to nearly 196 million units..."

This decline could be due to modern tires being durable and lasting longer than they used to. People are also driving less as a result of increasing gasoline costs.

Despite the new competition of selling discount tires direct, The independent tire dealers still dominate the market, accounting for 69 percent of the replacement passenger market. But mass merchandisers have captured 17 percent of the market and manufacturer outlets claim 10 percent. Online tire sales make up about 4 percent.

"The challenge is that competition from the Internet and national retailers has increased. Tires are getting more expensive. Even though they're lasting longer and the number of units aren't climbing as fast as dollar sales, everyone wants a share of that," said Skip Potter, executive director of the Chesapeake Automotive Business Association, which represents locally owned tire service centers in Maryland, the District and Delaware.

I believe a shift in the market is happening as we speak. Discount tire centers make it cheaper, easier, and more convenient to buy tires than traditional independent stores. Growth of discount tire stores are strong. Nowadays there's no reason why we shouldn't buy tires direct.

If you're interested in buying discount tires direct, The Tire Rack is a good starting point. they have tried to overcome one of the biggest hurdles online stores face, of customers being unsure how to fit tires once they arrive at their front door. They have formed partnerships with local installers across the country so customers can buy discount tires direct and install them at a traditional independent store. Buy tires now from their easy-to-use website.

For further information on the benefits of buying online, take a look at the buying online tires guide


By Sam Applegate

Installing Underglow Neon

Installing your own underglow neon kit is a fairly straightforward process. There are a few things you should know before taking on this project that can make or break your results.

The first thing to do is to get the car up on sturdy jackstands. Unpack all your materials, and go ahead and get some good zip ties and small wire conduit, as they will help in the installation. Look under the vehicle on each side. We will start by placing the 2 largest bulbs on the sides. You want to find a good spot centered on the side of the car, but clear of the jack points. There is usually a small lip just behind the side skirts or the side of the underbody. That is usually the best placement for the bulbs. Some kits come with a reflective background. Make sure there is adequate clearance to mount the bulbs and the reflective background without being able to see the bulbs from outside the car. The bulb harnesses will come with self tapping screws that you can drill in place to secure the bulbs to the vehicle. Line up the bulbs and drill in the center harness. If you don't have self tapping screws, drill some small pilot holes about 1/4 inch deep. Secure the ends in place in the same manner and the side bulbs are secured.

The rear and front bulbs may be a little more tricky to find the right place to anchor them. You can usually place them under the bumper cover, but I have found great success attaching them to the subframe using a couple of zip ties zipped together. This allows the light to project forward from underneath the bumper. If the light is secured under the bumper cover, the bumper prohibits the light from shining outwards from underneath. Either way will work, but the former method will give a better result.

The rear should be treated just like the front. Try to mount it in a location facing outwards where light will be able to get outside of the bumper, but where you won't see the bulbs. Zip ties work well here too. Once this is secured in place, its time to run the wires. I like to use small conduit for this as it gives a professional, clean installation. Zip tie the wires along the frame and bring them together underneath the car. attach them together (not the actual wires, but just bundled together) and run them up through the engine compartment in a slightly larger conduit so all 4 wires will fit. If you plan to mount the control box inside the car, you can run them inside the car as you would an amplifier primary cable. Otherwise, find a flat spot to mount your controller under the hood. Secure it in place, and trim up any excess wiring. Attach the wiring, and run the primary power wires to the appropriate sources.

There is a switch that is mounted inside the vehicle. You can use the given switch, or choose to add a fighter style switch or other aftermarket switch. The provided switches will look really nice recessed into the dash, created a factory finish. I have been able to drill the right sized hole in the dash and place the switch next to other factory switches, which really makes for a great install.

Majestic Modifications is the complete car customization concept, specializing in car accessories, cold air intakes and performance upgrades, auto parts, body kits and exterior accessories, glow gauges and interior accessories, wheels and tires, mobile video, car audio and electronics.

By Matt Brooks

5 Reasons You Should Import Cars From Japan

Why would anyone want to import cars from Japan? I know it may sound crazy to you why people are doing so when they can actually buy Japanese cars locally. It does not matter whether you are in US, UK, Australia or Canada, you can surely get a Japanese car in where you are living. But there are good reasons why you should consider importing cars from Japan. Do not blink your eye as I explain to you in a flash.

Wide Car Selection

When you import cars from Japan, you get to choose from a whole lot more options than what you get locally. On top of that, you can buy cars from online auctions in Japan from private sellers, car yards, and used car auctions. You can feast your eyes on the hottest models in Japan.

Huge Savings

Another advantage to import cars from Japan is in the savings you get. You see, it is not uncommon to save up to 30% when you ship your car from Japan than you were to purchase one locally. If you are paying $10,000 for a used Japanese car here, you could probably buy a similar model for $3000 less. So is it worth the effort importing cars? The answer is Yes!

New Car Model

Give you ego a jab by being the first car driver of a popular car model. You will find some real gems when you import cars from Japan. You can be the very first person who is driving a cool new car model before everyone else does that.

Buying and Re-Selling for Profits

Even if you are not buying a Japanese car for your personal use, you can always consider this as a business opportunity. Let you in on a secret. A handful of guys are making huge profits from by importing Japanese cars. This is because the margin is wide and you get to save quite a fair bit if you import a few more at a time. Why let the used car dealers be fattened in their wallets when you can join in to profit from this business.

Guide Available

While the idea to import cars from Japan may sound overwhelming, it is not if there is a guide to assist you. There are guides around. There is one particular one that teaches you how to import cars from Japan to Australia, US and Canada. You will learn how to import a quality Japanese car like a Skyline, Supra or Delta wagon to your country for as low a price as possible. You will also learn what to do with respect to customs and registration requirements.

With so many good reasons, there is no reason why you should not consider importing Japanese cars. Check out my car blog if you are keen to import cars from Japan.

Davion is crazy about fast cars. Learn the A to Z on how to import cars from Japan such as where to find reliable used car agents in Japan, buying and importing Japanese cars and more at his wildly successful car blog.


By Davion Wong

Find the Best Anti-Theft Device for your Car with These Tips

How safe do you think your car really is sitting in that parking gargae all day while you're at work? What about sitting outside your house, even? The truth is without an anti-theft device installed in your car, it never really is safe. A recent study showed that every 25 seconds someone's vehicle is reported stolen. That totals 1.2 million car thefts each year. One of those cars can be yours next.

So you have to decide if the extra money you put out for buying a car alarm system is a worthy investment compared to losing your car. This is the only question. You're next faced with ones like, which car safety system should you buy? Which will best protect it?

A professional car thief can and will steal any car, if they want it bad enough. You're job is to at least make them work hard if they plan on trying to steal yours. Law enforcement officials recommend using common sense combined with a good anti-theft devices to thwart thieves.

There are many different anti-theft devices out there. Here are a few tips to help you protect your car:

First off, think about where you normally park your car at home and at work. If your alarm was to go off, would you or anyone else for that matter, hear it or notice it? If it was to go off, would it simply be ignored?


One great way to deter potential thieves is buy a heavy gauge steering wheel lock or tire locks. They will run you about $100-$200 but it's worth the cost in peace of mind. Another trick is use indicator lights or window stickers that give off the impression of the car having an alarm installed.


Do some research of just how effective certain theft-prevention measures actually are. If someone is determined enough to break into your car, they will find a way. Certain systems just make it more difficult such as cutting through certain steering immobilizers or shutting off the alarm.


What are some of the ranges of the anti-theft systems you are looking at? The most popular systems include options such as audible alarms, a concierge system or cellular alarms that notify police. Other systems you'll find have locking steering-wheel covers, steering-column covers, locking steering-wheel bars, kill switches, fuel-system locks, tracking devices and delay devices.


How much protection are you looking for? Do an evaluation of how far you are willing to go and how much you are willing to spend. You'll find that some alarms, reasonably priced in the $150 to $1,000 range, will arm automatically. Some alarms come equipped with tracking devices and are priced from $400 to $1,500. These types of systems help locate the car if it's stolen. Steering-wheel locks and column locks are priced cheaply but must be manually put on every time.


Create a budget for how much you are willing to spend now and in the future for any additional costs. Cheaper anti-theft devices such as mechanical immobilizers don't need to be professionally installed, but you're also not getting the best deterrent system either.


Low-tech, cheaper anti-theft systems can be found in nearly any auto parts store or even in the automotive section of a major retailer. However, for the more sophisticated alarms, your best bet is to find a stereo shop or parts store that specializes in automotive electronics such as sound systems, alarms and radar detectors. They can even do the install for you there.


Once you have your new alarm system successfully installed, call your insurance company to see if you are now eligible for any discounts.

Electra Warehouse does not only offer mobile electronics, it also carries brand named pro DJ equipment and home audio equipment. Electra Warehouse strives to give each customer a great one stop shop for the best bargain mobile, home and pro dj electronics. Visit them at www.electrawarehouse.com


By Tl Kleban

Tinting Plastic Lenses

Before you begin this project you need to have the following handy:

800 grit sandpaper, a bowl of water, paper, tinting product of your preference, paint, paint thinner, and tack cloths.

To assure the tint takes to the lens start by sanding the entire surface with 600-800 grit sandpaper. Pay close attention to the edges and any corners. This will give the lens a soft scratched look. Wipe the edges with paint thinner and start masking off the area you do not want to tint.

Green painters tape works best for this. With the edges masked off, now tape paper over the backs of the lenses to keep over spray from entering the inside of the lamps. Check the masking one more time and if everything looks ok, start cleaning the prepped surfaces. The best way to do this is wipe them with a cloth soaked in thiner and come back with a second cloth to remove any dust.

With a clean surface you can now start the tinting process. The key in this step is to keep the spray and thickness as even as you can. Too much VHT or tint and the lens will look overly black. Too little and you risk the lens looking splattered. To give you an idea of the technique you wan to use I have prepared a video at: http://volvospeed.com/Mods/tinting_vht_niteshade_imron.html. A lot of painting comes down to practice but seeing it does is easier to follow than reading about it. With a little patience you should not have any problems achieving god results.

Apply as many coats as needed to get the results you want with the methods shown above. After you have the look you want, the key to a great result is clear coating. For that OEM shine take your newly finished lenses to a local paint and body shop. For a few dollars they will spray your lenses with a polyurethane clear coat. This coat will resist UV fading an cracking as well as help prevent any scratches from forming. All said and done this is a great modification to update the look of you car for under 50 dollars.

http://www.volvospeed.com


By Drew Shielly

Car Audio Subwoofer-How to Select

Usually the very first upgrade anyone considers making to their OEM car sound system is to add a subwoofer. It really isn’t surprising since OEM speakers are simply too small and not of sufficient quality to accurately produce low bass frequencies. Subwoofers provide the most immediate improvement one can make to a car audio sound system. Consequently one of the most frequently asked questions is: “How do I select a subwoofer?”

Actually, your selection will depend on several factors such as your personal preferences in music, your budget and available space in your. The amount of space you have to dedicate to your subwoofer’s enclosure should be the first thing you consider. In the majority of cases, this decision narrows the field very quickly. But what if space is no problem?

Subwoofers range in size from 6” to 18” in diameter. Most are round in shape but in recent years the new square shapes are becoming more and more popular. Materials used in the speaker cones can be made of treated paper, light metals such as aluminum and even various types of composites. Paper cone subwoofers tend to sound the most natural and true to life but paper is the least durable. Aluminum Cone woofers were one of the best materials to use for quick, tight bass response (sound quality applications-SQ) because they produced very low frequencies in small sealed boxes. There are some very good musical subwoofers today that offer excellent sound quality while also presenting exceptional SPL (Sound Pressure Level - An acoustic measurement of sound energy, typically expressed in dB-SPL). Normally, High SPL is associated with LOUD BASS. In most cases, High-End Subwoofers will tend to offer a good balance of both SPL and SQ. You’ll find composite woofer cones used today by some of the most respected names in subwoofers to create exceptional sound quality. At one time, a shopper had to decide which was more important to him, SPL (LOUDNESS) or SQ (musical sound quality), but there are currently many high quality subwoofers noted for both.

As mentioned, although woofers range from 6” to 18”, the size of the individual subwoofer isn’t always the most important thing to consider. The larger surface area of a specific subwoofer usually translates into deeper bass, but smaller subs might sound cleaner and actually might hit harder due to the fact that they have less mass and can respond more quickly. Most of the larger manufacturers have gotten away from even producing the 18” size and many are moving away from even the 15” size due to decreased popularity. Let’s be honest, smaller vehicles translate into smaller trunk space and this definitely has a bearing on how large an area the owner will sacrifice for his sound system. Today’s shopper is more educated and looking for good musical sound quality in most cases. This can easily be achieved in running 8”, 10” or 12” model subwoofers. Multiple subwoofers will actually play louder then a single larger sub in most cases and can handle more power. This isn’t rocket science but two 10” subs can move more air then one single 12” sub just due to the surface area of the subwoofer cones. You get the idea.

Another area to consider is whether you want to use a Dual voice coil (DVC) or a Single voice coil (SVC) model subwoofer. The primary advantage of the dual voice coil speaker is wiring flexibility. A single dual voice coil driver offers the user three hookup choices: parallel, series and independent. In a parallel hook-up the driver’s impedance will be half that of each individual coil. A series hook-up results in twice the impedance of each single coil. Finally, you can wire each voice coil to a separate channel of your amplifier, which can be useful if your amplifier is not mono-bridgeable or if you are bridging a four channel amplifier down to two channels to run your sub. Just for an example: to run two 4ohm DVC woofer- Wire the individual woofers in Parallel so they each will show a 2 ohm load. Then wire the two woofers in a Series and the amplifier will see a 4 ohm load. Almost any amplifier can be bridged mono at 4 ohms. At one time you would pay a premium price for a DVC model but today it seems prices are similar regardless of voice coil selection.

Finally, the shopper really has to go back to his available space and consider what type of music he listens to most often. This is relative since although one might want to run a 12” subwoofer, there can be a considerable amount of difference in the size of various types of boxes. It’s good to take this into consideration when making your initial subwoofer choice so you aren’t disappointed in the results. Different types of boxes are generally used for different types of music. Sealed boxes deliver tight, controlled bass with excellent Sound Quality and are best for jazz, classical, country or pop music. Ported enclosures are usually larger and tend to have a boomier, richer, more resonant sound which lends itself to hip hop and heavy metal music. Bandpass boxes are the largest and are known for an aggressive, boomy sound which is good for rap, reggae, and hard rock music. When selecting your subwoofer, be sure it can be used in the type box you are considering. Not all subs are recommended for vented or bandpass applications and very few are suitable for free air applications. Plan ahead and you will not be disappointed.

One other consideration is that of a custom stealth style subwoofer enclosure. These are made custom for your vehicle and always take up the least amount of space. They will cost a bit more but most consider the cost well worth the appearance. Normally, these boxes are designed for subwoofers designated for small sealed enclosures and produce relatively good SQ.

So after considering your choice of box type and the amount of space available you are armed with the basic information that will allow you to start looking for your new subwoofer. This article should help you narrow down your search for a new subwoofer. You will find a broad span in pricing and quality so happy shopping.




Doc from Docswarehouse.com has been retailing car audio amplifiers, source units, speakers, subwoofers and video from the biggest names in car stereo for over a decade on the web. He makes it easy for the newbie as well as the experienced hobbiest to make the best possible decisions relating to car audio.
Visit Doc's online outlet for the best car audio deals on the web. http://docswarehouse.com


Author: Den

Choosing an Awesome Car Audio System

Being able to drive on a long stretch of empty road is one of the best things that I like about my car. I simply put the top down and allow the wind to rustle through my hair as the miles fly past and the music blare. The bulk of this experience is dependent on nature and the ample availability of time, money and fuel.

However, the last aspect of my driving experience is entirely dependent on the presence of a good car audio system. By meditating or closing my mind to everything else, I can retain my sanity in rush hour traffic. Surviving through rush hour traffic is also a lot easier with the help of great music coming from a good car sound system.

When a good car audio system is matched with the internal and external specifications of the car it is housed in, it will perform at its optimal best. It does not make sense to get a high PMPO, 500 watts car audio system if it can only be housed in the small confine of a Volkswagen beetle. Similarly, getting a tiny, entry level audio system and putting it in the spacious interiors of a hummer or any of the SUVs in the market is not a smart idea.

However, choosing the perfect car audio system is just half of the battle in ensuring that the performance matches the expectations. The myriad of available audio systems for vehicles in the market compounds this problem. You can choose car audio systems that come with basic features. Power house audio systems that come packed with features are also available in the present market. Renowned audio system manufacturers also offer super premium systems that can compete with a home theatre system.

The majority of audio system manufacturer are in the business for audio systems for vehicles. This is only natural considering that the average office worker spends nearly four hours a day traveling in the car. A good car audio system is becoming a necessity, even if music preferences may change from person to person. An audio system is vital in improving the driving experience. This is the reason why you should take the time to choose a good car audio system on the next time that you are in the market for a new car.
Author: Morgan Hamilton

Auto Parts Fast Features the New 2007 GMC Yukon Denali and Top Quality GMC Parts

The sale of SUVs has slightly abated recently due to rising prices of fuel but GMC seems not daunted by this phenomenon. Just last October 5, 2005, GMC unveiled the 2007 Yukon and the flagship Yukon Denali full-size SUV at the California International Auto Show in Anaheim. In GMC's words, these new Yukon editions are the most powerful, agile, fuel efficient and refined among GMC's sport utilities. Inside and out the new GMC Yukon and Yukon Denali models offer the best that you can ask for from a full-size truck.

The Exterior

Both models feature sleek and brawny body. The wraparound front and rear fascias give the two distinct look, obviously different from the previous models. Yukon and Yukon Denali exude a more contemporary look and stands more confidently this time. Its finely styled GMC mirrors, crystal clear GMC lights, doors extending over the rockers, integrated running boards, and perfectly aligned GMC wheels are some of the most exciting exterior features to look forward to in these new SUVs.

The GMC headlights are noticeably larger and taller. They use halogen bulbs that emit stronger and brighter beam. Aside from enhancing the vehicle's styling, these lights also significantly improve these SUVs' safety. The new GMC taillights give the rear end a different look as well. They have superbly designed crystal clear lenses that further enhance illumination.

The Interior

What you see is what you get. The 2007 Yukon and Yukon Denali's interior are just as excellently designed as the exterior. Buyers can choose between cloth and leather-trimmed versions with rear or four-wheel drive. These new models are roomier than earlier models. Cargo space has also improved. Expect thinner sculpted seat designs with very detailed trims. The seatback recline angle of the second row seats is increased so you can comfortably move them as you please.

Upscale styling and superior craftsmanship is revealed by every interior detail of these SUVs. All interior GMC parts are designed with precision, giving the interior a luxurious feel. Softer and low-gloss materials are used for the instrument panel and other trim pieces. The uniquely designed center console has wood trim that cover cupholder pockets. Your ride will surely be comfortable with the standards automatic Tri-Zone climate control. A superb audio, entertainment and info system are also provided to add comfort to the occupants.

Performance

Powering the Yukon is a Gen IV 5.3L small-block V8 engine that delivers 320 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. Standard on the 4WD models is a Flex-Fuel E85 version that runs on E85 ethanol fuel or a mixture of E85 and gasoline. Two-wheel drive models also have this in its option list. The 5.3 engine features a Displacement On Demand technology that allows up to 25% gain in fuel economy.

The Yukon Denali on the other hand is powered by a 6.2L engine that features super light parts that add to its efficiency. It generates a whopping 380 horsepower and a generous 415lb-ft of torque.

With the Yukon and the Yukon Denali's heavy duty powertrain, you can expect more exciting ride even off-road. Suspension components are likewise perfectly engineered to give you superb handling and very responsive driving experience.

While you wait for these extraordinary vehicles to go on sale by the first quarter of 2006, you can upgrade your old GMC SUV's performance and style. By doing so you get a more satisfying ride with your old driving buddy while you increase its resale value. You can find OEM-quality GMC parts at Auto Parts Fast. Featured in this auto parts store are thousands of GMC lights, GMC alternators, GMC wheels, GMC mirrors and so much more.

Check out the Auto Parts Fast's other auto parts including the best quality Ford parts, Chevy parts, Jeep parts, Honda Parts and Toyota parts.



Author: Stacey Wilson

Seat Belt Safety Facts - Vital To Defensive Driving

Possessing competent defensive driving skills is not just restricted to technical driving techniques. A very simple and effective defensive driving technique is to wear a seat belt at times. This is one of the easiest ways of protecting yourself as a driver and a passenger. It is a well researched and proven fact that wearing seat belts save lives. Drivers of all ages should therefore make it their business to know everything possible about seat belt safety facts.

Research shows that occupants in a motor vehicle have a better than 40 percent chance of surviving a car accident if they are wearing a seat belt (this statistic does depend upon the severity of the accident - some accidents are so bad that surviving one would be impossible). However, in many accidents the wearing of seat belts by the occupants plays a significant role in reducing the number injuries. Approximately 20 per cent of all road fatalities each year are caused by people not wearing a seat belt. Hundreds of other people suffer severe lifelong disabilities in road accidents where they were not wearing a restraint.

Seat Belt Safety Facts – No. #1

Seat belts protect drivers and passengers in a number of ways, such as:

• Decreasing the time it takes an occupant to come to a stop upon impact

• Minimizing a person’s contact with the interior of the vehicle

• Spreading the force of the impact over a greater area of the body

• Preventing ejection from the vehicle.

Seat Belt Safety Facts – No. #2

If you are the driver, before the car starts moving you need to make sure of the following:

• Your own seat belt is properly fastened and adjusted to fit firmly

• Your passengers’ seat belts are properly fastened and adjusted firmly

• Children traveling in the car are properly restrained.

If you are a passenger, before the car starts moving make sure you have:

• Properly fastened and adjusted your seat belt

• Encourage the driver and other passengers to buckle up.

Seat Belt Safety Facts – No. #3

Being pregnant is no reason not to wear a seat belt. Wearing a seat belt means you are protecting both yourself and your unborn baby if you are involved in a crash. Here are a few tips for comfortably and correctly wearing a seat belt whilst pregnant:

• Place the lap sash part of the belt under the baby bulge, as low as possible. The lap part of the seat belt should sit over the upper thighs, not across the bulge.

• It is often possible to adjust the angle of the seat belt by using a seat belt locater.

• Make sure the sash part of the belt is in between the breasts.

Seat Belt Safety Facts – No. #4

Children must be restrained in a restraint suited to their size and weight. The restraint must be correctly and securely fitted to the car. In certain cars it is possible to fit an additional lap belt to accommodate a fourth small child in the back seat. Lap belts are not recommended on their own, but are safe if used in conjunction with a properly fitted child harness.

Before moving children from a booster seat into an adult seat belt, certain conditions should be met.

The adult seat belt fits correctly. The lap part is low over the pelvis (not the stomach) and the sash does not touch the child’s face or neck and all slack is removed.

• Lap/sash seat belts offer much greater protection than lap belts. Where possible put your child in a seating position with a lap/sash belt.

• Children riding in school buses must wear a seat belt if one is available. Only one seat belt per person must be used.

Seat Belt Safety Facts – No. #5

Seat belts must always be kept in good condition. Car owners should check the condition of seat belts in their vehicle as a standard part of vehicle maintenance routine. The following things should be checked:

• The seat belts themselves are not twisted, cut or frayed.

• The buckles are in good working order, engaging and releasing properly.

• The retractors work properly. The seat belt should pull out smoothly and be fully retracted when not in use.

here are many countries around the world where it is illegal not to wear a seat built. For example, in Australia, every person traveling in a car is required by law to wear a seat belt if one is available. There are tough penalties for those who do not abide by this law. Many other countries are introducing similar laws, and the message about important seat belt safety facts is being spread far and wide.

Buckling on a seat belt is a simple defensive driving technique any driver or passenger can utilize. Learning all the seat belt safety facts and introducing “buckling-up” into daily driving routines is one good place to start.

Jean Littman is co-owner of DefensiveDriverSense.com which provides quality resources on seat belt safety facts, advanced driving and defensive driving programs.
By Jean Littman

How To Change Oil Quickly

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 will soon learn that it is so much easier than those mechanics would like you to know. They would rather you bring it to them on a regular basis so they can charge you for all the other maintenance services they provide.Which you can do yourself as well.This article will tell you how to change oil in a quick and easy way.

Since you have decided to do this yourself, you need 5 quarts of new oil, use a name brand, not the cheap stuff.You also need a very high quality oil filter, don't use a cheap filter. Also ask for 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.Make sure you are able to fit 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. At the lowest point of the pan, you will see the plug, remove this.The oil will drain out into your tray, it will take a few min.

After you have drained the oil, replace the oil plug.Be sure not to screw it in too tight, this will strip it. 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. After it is loose, you can remove it with your hand. Remember, oil will be coming out, so have your tray ready. On your new filter, you will see a rubber gasket.Coat the entire gasket with some of the new oil. This will make it easier to remove on the next oil change.

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 clockwise until you feel it tight. Using your wrench, tighten it another ¼ to ½ a turn to make sure it is sealed.Now you can come out from under your car. Time to fill up with your new oil.You are ready to put your new oil in. It should take 5 quarts.

Replace your oil cap and then start your car, let it run for about 5 minutes. Turn your car off and check your dip stick. Now you have discovered how to change oil all by yourself and have nice clean oil in there.

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

By Jessica T

5 Hot Tips on Increasing Fuel Economy

As gas price rises - our wallets get thinner.

For many daily drivers public transportation is not an option; we work way too far from home, there is no public transportation in our area, we have to drive our kids to school and I am sure you could give me thousand of other reasons for driving a car.

The electric car was an option and a big hope for a little while. As most of you already know the electric car is no longer on the market. There are many different theories on the electric car being "killed" - and this subject is hard to discuss about as it always ends up in an angry political-related fight.

However, there is another way of saving up your gas and not overpaying for it. Here are some tips that will be very helpful on saving gas and increasing the fuel economy;

• Accelerate gently; sudden acceleration from a stop can use up to four times more fuel.

• Keep your distance when driving in city traffic. Every time you use the brakes also means you have to accelerate again.

• Shift the transmission into a higher gear as soon as possible. Staying in low gear too long can use up to 30% more fuel. If your car has an automatic transmission, you can allow the transmission to shift earlier by slightly decreasing the pressure on the accelerator pedal for a few seconds.

• Keep your speed down. Decreasing your speed from 110 km/h to 90 km/h will give you a 10% increase in fuel economy. Your chances of getting a speeding ticket are also improved!

• And last but not least - you could convert your car to run on Water! Yes, H2O. It is much easier than it sounds and this proven method could Increase your fuel economy up to 207%. Converting your car to burn water does not harm your engine; in fact it helps your engine to stay cleaner and much more fuel efficient.

Alexandre Sol is a researcher in many different domains, his passion for automobiles helps him writing auto related articles. Feel free to check out his blog here.
Click Here to find out more about how to Convert Your Car to Burn Water and to watch the video on the subject.


By Alexandre Sol

Save With Easy Auto Maintenance Tips

What do we all want while driving? To provide for our families, loved ones, and what have you. How do you accomplish this? There are a whole slew of roads to travel, but one main ingredient is a family car that is always 100% reliable. And if driving creates you running errands faster, to save money on gas, and decreasing air pollution, you win twice. Your 1993 Ford Tempo or whichever car, truck, van, or boat you drive needs to be performing at top capacity.

The most important thing you can do for your car is make regular auto maintenance check-ups, service all the automotive liquids. Oh, by the way, be sure to check your car's liquids every 2 weeks. That means your oil, coolant, power steering fluid, and transmission liquids. Make checking your tires a constant too. My ex-girlfriend recently called me up and cried that one of her tires exploded driving under a freeway. Yikes. Also, don't forget to maintain a proper fuel tank level according to your particular car's engine (see car owner manual). A car owner manual is like the bible of your vehicle. If you don't already have one, get one. You'll wish you had one if your car breaks down in the desert.

Your car engine will thank you with better performance and quicker reaction times, which is an essential part of keeping you and your family and friends safe on the road. Make yourself aware of this info. It may save the life of your engine one day. It will save you money on gas and auto maintenance.

Choose the right fuel. Your vehicle is designed to take regular unleaded fuel, which will have this symbol (87) on the pump at the gas station. The 87 symbol refers to the level of octane in the fuel. Using lower grade of fuel will jack up your car engine and will cause heavy knocking, which could easily damage your engine. I drive a Ford Tempo, and my car owner manual says to use the 87 grade of gas.

Higher grade fuels will protect your fuel system from rusting and protect against fuel lock in the fuel system (causes engine to hesitate/stall and hard to restart). In addition, it will minimize fuel deposits in fuel injection system, and prevent your engine from knocking/pinging. They will also prevent the fuel system from "gumming up" when not run for long periods of time, not to mention help your, Ford Tempo perhaps, start more easily in winter while assisting in help the prevention of freezing fuel lines.

Tips to increase gas mileage include not driving at life-threatening highway speeds can dramatically lower your fuel economy. It maybe fun, but it's the car that you don't see that will do the most damage. Gradually increasing your speed will save you precious fuel. And the way gas prices have been, it is nice not having to cram all your money into your gas tank. Extended idling of your engine will lower your miles per gallon.

I hope theses tips allow you to spend more time with your family and friends. As well as save money on gas, and auto maintenance. Enjoy!

Jeremy is the owner/developer of The Ford Tempo Center. It's the 1 stop auto shop for all your D.I.Y. Ford Tempo automotive needs. To browse car parts, auto accessories, articles, FAQ, or save cash using car tips and secrets, view the above link.
By Jeremy MacDonald

What are Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)?

Today, most new vehicles are equipped with an anti-lock braking system or offer it as an option, and many car shoppers consider anti-lock brakes a must when they make a vehicle purchase. Designed to give the driver control over the vehicle while coming to a rapid stop, anti-lock brakes employ precisely calculated, rapid pumping action to prevent wheels from locking up during a sudden stop. Anti-lock brake technology marks such a significant breakthrough in the automobile industry that in a 2006 report published by www.cars.com, anti-lock braking technology was rated the #1 automobile innovation in recent years and was credited it for paving the way for roll mitigation and stability control technology.

Let us examine for a moment what happens to a vehicle without ABS as sudden pressure is applied to the brake. The wheel is capable of coming to a stop quicker than the vehicle itself, resulting in a skid as the wheel locks but the vehicle continues to move. When a vehicle skids, there is little traction and the driver has minimal or no control over the direction the vehicle will go.

Anti-lock brakes employ computer controlled speed sensors which detect sudden deceleration and activate right before the point when the wheels would otherwise lock up. By rapidly releasing and reapplying pressure to the brake system in quick intervals, the ABS system allows the tires to decelerate at the same rate as the vehicle, preventing skidding and allowing the driver to steer away from obstacles while braking if necessary. Without ABS, a vehicle in the same situation could lose traction, leaving the driver at the mercy of the out of control vehicle and anything in its path.

Several studies have raised doubt regarding whether the presence of ABS actually prevents accidents, and some experts suggest that drivers being unaware of how to correctly utilize the system contributes to the findings. When you rapidly compress the brake pedal in a vehicle with anti-lock brakes, it is normal to feel a pulsing or vibrating from the pedal, and possibly some noise. In vehicles with ABS, brakes should never be pumped with the foot. In an emergency stopping situation, hold constant pressure on the brake pedal while maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel to control the direction of the vehicle, allowing the ABS to do the job for which they are designed.

In purchasing a vehicle with ABS, note that all ABS systems are not the same. While some systems include a speed sensor and valve for each of the four wheels, others may have just one valve and sensor for both rear wheels. Consult the owner's manual for information about the type of ABS system with which a particular vehicle is equipped.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.
By G Chapman

New Hybrid Car Comparison

Hybrid cars operate on the concept of utilizing gas and electric motors in maximizing fuel consumption and longer mileage. However, this does not mean that all the hybrid vehicles available on the market all achieve the same mileage and use up the same amount of fuel. Here is a hybrid car comparison of some vehicles from different brand manufacturers.

The 2007 Prius

The Prius sells for about $23,000 give or take a few dollars. With a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that can manage 76 horsepower and an electric motor with 67 horsepower, a total electric motor assist rate would be about 110 horsepower. The Prius is a front-wheel drive, four door hatchback and is said to achieve 48 miles to the gallon in the city and 45 miles to the gallon on the highway or on longer drives.

The 2007 Camry

Another entry from Toyota is the Camry, similar to their luxury hybrids with four-door and front-wheel drive features. It does have a larger engine, a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder that can achieve 147 horsepower. Its electric motor is much weaker and achieves 40 horsepower which means that mileage and gas is sacrificed. Still, for a hybrid, it performs much better than conventional vehicles and can get about 33 miles to the gallon in both the city and on the highway.

2007 Saturn Aura Green Line

Running with a whopping 164 horsepower, the Saturn features a 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine and an electric starting assist motor. This motor basically shuts down the vehicle when it's on standstill and then automatically restarts it when it moves again.

While this may save some gas because none is spent while it's idle, this is not as helpful as having a real electric motor assist while the vehicle is moving. This allows for 24 miles to the gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway; still a fraction better than a conventional gas-powered vehicle.

2007 Honda Civic Hybrid

Coming up close to the Toyota Prius is the Civic hybrid which is also one powerful sedan that not only plays the part but looks the part as well. Sleek and luxurious, this beauty from Honda has a tiny 1.3 liter four-cylinder 8-valve engine and full electric motor support that promises 110 horsepower when both engines are in operation to make the car move. The car boasts 49 miles to the gallon on city streets and 51 miles to the gallon on the highway; now that's competition for Toyota if they haven't seen it yet.

As far as hybrid cars are concerned, it's all about the technology. For the best performance, you may want to choose one that uses less gas and has full electric motor support to give you the best mileage. Make sure to study your hybrid car comparison before making your hybrid choice.

For more hybrid car comparison information, look for more reviews online. From there, you will be able to find the best car that suits your lifestyle.

To determine the best hybrid car in the industry, try searching for the latest hybrid car comparison. Find more reviews and hybrid car prices.

By Anton Rowd

How To Save On Gas Usage As Gas Prices Keep Going Higher

As I write this article oil prices are near $100 a barrel and the price for a gallon of 87 octane gas where I live in Northwest Florida just went to $3.05 per gallon! Since I drive a Nissan Titan Crew Cab and don't get the greatest gas mileage I am a little agitated. Here are some things that you can do to help reduce the consumption of gasoline with your vehicle.

One of the biggest culprits contributing to poor fuel economy is lack of regular maintenance. It is crucial to keep your car tuned up regularly so that it will make the most efficient use of the fuel. Another maintenance item that contributes to bad fuel economy is dirty air filters which can reduce your mileage by ten percent or more.

You need to avoid jackrabbit starts and stops as well, keeping a steady rate of speed when driving can help you avoid wasting as much as a third of the fuel you are using. At the current gas prices you could save nine dollars for every ten gallons of gas. If you have cruise control on your vehicle, use it to keep your driving steady and save gas.

If you have alternate routes you can take that are less trafficked than your normal one use them to avoid the stops and starts. You should also keep from using the clutch excessively.

One thing many people don't think about is how temperature affects your gas usage, buying your fuel in the morning hours or late at night will help you get more for your money when fueling up.

If you are on the highway you should keep your windows rolled up to avoid wind drag. This is another big waster of gasoline. The friction or drag that occurs when your windows are down completely goes against any aerodynamic styling your car may have.

The operation of the air conditioning is another thing that is a major fuel waster, if it is at all possible you should only use the AC when absolutely necessary. If you must use it do so sparingly and at the lowest settings in order to get the best fuel economy.

If your wait time is going to be longer than a minute or so turn the engine off. If you let your engine idle more than that you are using more fuel than restarting the car would. This is another big fuel burner that many people don't think about.

f you have Jimmy Hoffa in your drunk, dump him. Seriously, if you have a lot of unnecessary stuff in your car get rid of it. Excessive weight can also waste gas at a much higher rate.

Keep your tires at the proper and recommended levels for your vehicle to get the best fuel economy. If your tires are under inflated or over inflated it will make a difference in fuel usage.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his beautiful wife and family in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about sports cars as well as car care products at http://www.5starshine.com

By Gregg Hall