The Boys and Toys of Muscle Cars

Car Repair Despair

November 3rd, 2008 admin

Car Repair Despair

As your car slowly rolls to the side of the road, with you struggling behind the wheel, trying to make it to the shoulder before being slammed by another (or several) vehicles, it dawns on you that your entire day has just taken a different path. You are in need of car repair. And as you are probably aware, nothing else can be done until this problem is solved.

Frustrated because you now realize that you are late for work, or for picking up the kids before the daycare starts racking up your already high bill, or even worse-you are on a road trip in unchartered territory-nowhere near your mechanic or dealership; your mind is forced to focus on your very next step.

If you had the foresight to purchase Emergency Road Service or carry it on auto insurance policy (many offer this service), you will automatically call them. These services offer on-site minimal car repair such as jump-starting a dead battery or changing a tire. But if you have a larger car repair problem they will also tow you; usually within a fifty mile radius of where your car is parked. This obviously poses a larger problem…where to take the car. Don’t despair. There are a few precautionary steps that you can take before you are in this predicament.

First of all, when you move to a new area, immediately find someone that can repair your car if the need arises. A lot of new car owners neglect to do this until it is too late and the situation is imperative. You find a new doctor, dentist, dry cleaner, etc. You should follow the same rules for finding a good mechanic that will suit your car repair needs. Inquire at work, ask friends, check in the yellow pages, and call around. Doing this will alleviate a lot of frustration later.

If you happen to be on the open road when you are in need of car repair, you should plan ahead. By this I mean-you take the time to check out reputable hotels and good restaurants, and possibly even medical care options-do yourself a favor and take the time to seek out emergency car repair options. If you know that you will be driving for a long distance-check out places that offer affordable, fast car repair. If you belong to a automobile club, they will be able to help you do this. If you have Emergency Road Service attached to your auto insurance policy-your insurance company will also have a list of reputable establishments that will be able to take car of all of your repair needs.

If you don’t have emergency roadside assistance, you can easily go on-line and check out your itinerary map. After planning your route, find the major cities you will be passing through. Next, find familiar nationally renowned names in car repair and auto dealerships that sell your car. Either print up the addresses and contact numbers or program them into your cell phone. This hour of work could save you hours, money, and aggravation in the long run.

Whether a in your hometown, or on the road, the key is to plan ahead, plan ahead, plan ahead. When you get your car safely to the shoulder of the road you will probably still be frustrated, but you will be able to rest easier knowing that you will not be stuck without a good repair service to take care of your car.

Muscle Cars

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Auto General Inside Car Maintenance Checklist

October 17th, 2008 admin

Auto General Inside Car Maintenance Checklist

Just like everything else with moving parts, the inside of a car needs general maintenance on a regular basis. If you will set aside a few hours to go over the following checklist every couple of months or when you are cleaning the vehicle, your car performance can stay at its optimum level. As with any car repair or maintenance, practice safety and use common sense.

•    Pedals-This includes the accelerator, brake and clutch (if applicable). Make sure that your floor mats are in their proper position. You don’t want them in the way of any pedal. Pump each pedal to assure that it is smooth, doesn’t catch, or require unnecessary effort.
•    Brakes-Take the car for a spin around the neighborhood. Check that they do not pull to one side when you apply them. You don not have to be going very fast to check this.
•    Gears-While driving, go through each gear. Check to see if the change of gears is a smooth transition. If you have been driving the vehicle for awhile, you know what feels right.
•    Parking Brake-If possible, park the car on a hill or incline. Put it in Park. Notice any movement. Now, put on the emergency brake. You know that the car should be held securely with or without the regular brake applied.
•    Seat Belts-Sit in every seat and put on the seat belt. Check that all parts are working properly. That includes the buckle, anchor, adjuster, and release button. Check the belt itself for any damage. Make sure the warning chimes are working when a seatbelt is not fastened.
•    Seats-Sit in every seat and check the controls. These may include recliners and all other side adjustments. Insure that they operate smoothly. Check to see of all latches lock securely while in every position. Check head restraints to make sure they latch and hold securely in every position.
•    Steering Wheel-Check to see if there are any changes in the steering conditions. Check for too much free play, not enough movement, and any noises.
•    Windshield Defroster-Make sure that the air outlets are clear of any dust or debris. Check that the air blows properly, sufficiently, and in the right direction. Check the rear window defroster. Does it defrost evenly and in a reasonable amount of time?
•    Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid-Release some washer fluid to insure that it is releasing properly, in sufficient amounts, and in the right direction. Turn on the wipers and see if they are operating properly. Make sure they do not leave streaks.
•    Warning Lights-Check the hazard lights, the dashboard lights, the overhead light, and door lights (if applicable).

Taking a couple of hours every two or three months to insure proper performance levels of the mechanisms on the inside of your car is not only a safety precaution, but can save you money on costly car repairs.

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